So.... Lets Talk Business Shall We ? (Invite)

[Μyster Controversy™]

OOC: Continued from Disrespected for the last time !

Nearly twenty four hours after Brandon Payne 'walked out' out of XWA, declaring his free agency. He is seen coming out of the Days Inn Hotel. Located several miles down from the Carver Arena, which was the sight of yesterday's Takedown. As he proceeds to his vehicle. His cell phone begins to ring. Looking at the ID. It says "Private Name, Private Number". He started to not answer the phone. Thinking it was some telemarketer or bill collector. But after about 3 rings. He thinks "Oh, what the hell. May be something important". Payne answers the phone and appears to be surprised to whom it is on the other line:

Hello ?

*A long five second pause comes from Payne. What does 'he' want ? He wonders in his mind*.

Hey... how are you ? Good, Good. I'm doing alright I suppose. Its just been a rough couple of weeks. Ha Ha, yeah I hear ya bro. Listen, I'm kinduv in a hurry right now. I have an autograph session I'm supposed to be attending here in the next 10-15 minutes and I'm running a little late (laughs). Can we continue this conversation some other time ?

Dinner !? And your paying !? Awesome ! I can't pass this up. Alright, sounds cool. We'll meet up say around 7:30 tomorrow night ?

Cool.. Cool. Holla at cha later, dog. Peace !

*Click* Payne hangs up the phone and continues on about his duties. Hoping into his H3 Hummer and speeds out of the parking lot. On his way to his scheduled Autograph Session.

*Less then 24 Hours Later*


Setting: Gene & Georgetti's Steakhouse Resturant
Location: Chicago, Ill
Time: 7:30 pm

Brandon Payne arrives to the restaurant. Dressed in a snazzy suit & tie. Looking to be here for a special 'business' dinner ? But with whom ?

As he looks over to his right. He see's the man he spoke to over the phone in the corner. He walks over, and they both greet each other by shaking hands. Payne takes a seat opposite of him. Brandon motions for a waitress. She nods to him that she would be with them in just a moment. This was a well known restaurant. One of the finest places in Chicago. So, you can expect it to be jammed pack on a night like this.

Gotta say, dude. I appreciate you inviting me to dinner and paying for this as well. Even though you really didn't have to (laughs). I must say, at first I was a little bit leery of coming down here. All things considered, ya know ? There's alot of tension going on in the XWA locker room right now. Quite frankly, I really don't know who to trust anymore. After the other night on Takedown. I'm taking a few weeks off to think things through and reevaluate my position within' the company. I just need to get away for a little bit.

I don't mean to sound rude or anything. But I'm gonna cut to the chase. What's the reason you wanted to see me ?

As I said on Takedown. I'm a free agent now. I'm open to negotiate with any organization at this point. I don't care if XWA likes it or not. I'm doing whats best for Brandon Payne and my career. I felt that I've earned that right over these last couple of years.

I've put nothing but blood, sweat, and even shed a few tears for the organization. And now ? I feel as if I'm getting shafted. It sucks to put in all this hard work and not really get anything in return. I mean, yeah sure. I became an Xtraordinaire last year. Which was a huge honor and I was naturally shocked by that I got such an award. But, that was last year. In 2009, I feel as if now I'm being pushed to the side for a bunch of wannabes. Whom on there best day. Can't hang with the likes of an Elite like myself one-on-one.

My old nemesis Primo has a little group now called "Upper Echelon". Claiming themselves to be the 'Elites'. What a joke in my eyes. Who needs an army of copycats when you've got the real deal sitting before you (laughs). Seems like every since I coined the phrase 'Elite'. Everybody has been wanting to steal it and use it to make themselves look good. Like I've said a few times in the past. I'm the man everyone hates, but wants to be ! (laughs)

[Loki Alverton]

The man sitting on the other side of the table from “The Elite” was none other than the chairman of XCW. As Brandon spoke about himself, Loki did nothing but sit and listen to the 2008 Combatant Xtraordinaire. Once Brandon stopped, Loki responded to his question.

Mr. Payne, I am not going to beat around the bush here. The reason I asked you to have this business dinner tonight was exactly because you declared yourself a free agent and we in the XCW feel that you are being underutilized with your current employer. Now I am not going to lie to you Brandon, I can call you Brandon I assume. As I said I am not going to lie to you and fill your mind with false promises. If you do decide to sign with the XCW we are not going to let you just walk into the ring with Orion for a title shot on your first day, however we will make sure that you are well taken care of. We will make sure that you are given the exposure that a man with the history in this industry such as yourself so rightfully deserves.[/font]

Just then the waitress walked up.

Yes, I will have the Filet Mignon and Lobster tail and a gin and tonic with your finest gin. Brandon, what will you be having?[/font]

[Μyster Controversy™]

Sounds pretty good. I'll have the same, ma'am.

After Payne places his order. The waitress walks away as Payne & Loki continue there discussion:

Brandon is my name, so of course you can call me by that (laughs). Naturally, when and if I came to XCW. I didn't plan on immediately going after Orion for the title. As those opportunities have to be earned and I know this. I've been in this game long enough to know that when I guy signs with an organization. They just don't walk in and run the place.

However, that's not my intention. I mean, sure. Beating Orion for the XCW Championship would be awesome. But, my ultimate goal within' XCW would be revenge. To seek pure and ultimate destruction of the XWA. I've been screwed over and pushed to the side one too many times for a bunch of rooks long enough. I've had it up to here with there reindeer games.

In a way, now I understand why Kim Hunter made the jump. I mean, in my eyes. As I watched over the Diamonds Division through most of last year. It was her that carried that division. Not Ashley Diamond, nor anyone else. While most of those girls were taking days off and half assing things. She busted her ass to make sure the division stayed afloat and didn't get a single thank you for it. To me, from one veteran like her to myself. That's a sign of ultimate disrespect. Is when you bust your tail off, and I don't get a single thank you for it.

Now for me on the other hand. I'm not going to come out & say that I carried XWA. Fact is, I didn't ! Its a team effort naturally. But when it came down to brass tacks. When it came down to me getting title shots. I was thrown in one stupid gimmick match or stipulation. I've only gotten one fair, and good World title shot so far. That was to my loss to XXL. A loss that has made me bitter and angry about every day since that time.

Other then that, then what ? I was thrown as the first entrant to the Devil's Playground match. Lets face it, what are the odds of any man surviving that brutal structure from bell to bell ? Not too good I can assure you.

Then more recently, you've got the match at Vendetta. They pitted me with a bunch of wannabes and losers against Overload. I was beginning to feel like Donavan McNabb of the Philadelphia Eagles. I felt like a Diamond surrounded by trash. It was uncalled for, and unfair. How come I didn't get the same one-on-one title shots that Magnus Von Schwartz got, or guys like O'Dell or Keith Wyle had gotten in the past. I've only had one of those.

Now... I don't know about you, Loki. But I feel that having multi-man matches for title shots or for title matches is way overrated. Whatever happened to the days of working hard and earning a one-on-one title shot against the champion ?

But.. at the same team. Despite my current grievances with XWA. They have been good to me in the past. So that's partially why I haven't decided to stay with them or jump ship to XCW.

I think for me to leave XWA and not turn back. It would have to take something catastrophic. Currently, I'm 50/50 either way it goes.

For what its worth. You seem to be more straight forward and honest man then I would've believed you to be, Loki. Lets play with the idea that I did decide to come over to your league. Where would I be starting out ?

[Loki Alverton]

Loki sat back a little in his chair before answering Brandon's questions.

I do have to agree with you Brandon. Title matches should be one on one and a concise victor should be declared. Having multiple men competing in the same match for a title is unfair for all that are involved, including the fans. A man of your caliber should be making the stipulations for the title matches you are included in. Look at your Combatant Xtraordinaire counterpart Kayn. Last year after he became the Combatant Xtraordinaire, he declared he would be facing Blade Myers for the Pure title and what happened? He became the longest running champion thus far in the short history of the XWA. Why were you not given the same chance? Why did he pick his matches while you were thrust into matches booked by someone else with their stipulations? What makes him more special than you are? He does not have the same history in this industry as you do. For crying out loud, you were once known as 'Genesis', a man that along side Chris Lionheart have had some amazing matches in TNB as well as other companies. You should not have to be subjected to being placed in matches where the deck is stacked against you, nor should you have to team with men that are nowhere near your level. Men like Dante Elsworth and Chris Dynamite are not fit to tie your boots, and men like Scott O'Dell and Keith Wyle are given opportunities because they are "XWA Originals". They have been on the payroll since day one, and done what Rodolphe has asked them, never asking twice, never second guessing what Gallas has to say. That is why they are given chance after chance, but men like you, men who laugh in the face of authority are always made to look the part of the fool.[/font]

Just as Loki finished the waitress had brought the men their drinks. Loki looked at her for a moment and smiled before returning back to Brandon.

But in XCW, we ALL laugh in the face of authority and we make sure our superstars are the cream of the crop. When someone puts a hundred percent into their craft, we make sure we reward that person with title matches. No favortism, hard work and dedication are what get you ahead with us and a man with your history, well you would be in a main event sooner than anyone could even realize. I have watched you even when I was a superstar in the XWA and wondered why you were being held back, not given the spotlight to shine. As a former wrestler I know how frustrating that can make one feel. I have not been to the heights you once reached, but I still felt the frustration of being overlooked and underutilized. People like yourself and Kim Hunter have a reason to be frustrated, but Kim has already made her decision and I would go out on a limb and say the Kim has made the decision that is best for her career, but what about your career Brandon? Do you want to have to change who you are to get ahead in a company that no matter how much blood you spill for them, you will never get what you truly deserve?[/font]

Loki was as shrew a business man as there ever was. He sat up in his seat, pulled two expensive Cuban cigars from his jacket pocket, placed one between his lips and held the other one out to Brandon. He waited for a reply from Brandon.

[Μyster Controversy™]

Payne smiled, as he accepted the cigar. Placing it in his mouth, lighting it up. Its been quite a well since he smoked one of these. Taking a couple of huge puffs off of it. Afterwords, moving the cigar away from his mouth to take a sip of gin. And boy, the gin tasted excellent here .

You know... I gotta hand it to ya, Loki. You do know your history. Especially when it comes to my past. Have to say, I respect that. Most business men of your kind, let alone wrestlers even know a clue as to what another wrestler's life story is all about.

As you well know. Back in those days of TNB. Myself, Lionheart, and others put on a clinic. The organization ran for two years. TNB was the birth place of 'Genesis'. The very place that I got my start. Even to this day, I do hold a special place in my heart for that organization. Knowing most wrestlers like I do. You never forget your first love. In this case, wrestling league.

Out of everybody that you mentioned from XWA. The man I respect the most for what he has done and achieved is Kayn. He got the Combatant Xtraordinaire award, went out the following season, and tore a path of destruction in the PURE division. Even though we've never really spoken before. I consider him one of the best I've seen, in and out of the ring. A true class act all the way.

But then again, there's guys like O'Dell, Primo, and Syrus who just don't get it. They run around talking about how there so superior to everyone. And I guess in a way. I sound like the pot calling the kettle black. But there's a huge difference between myself and those guys. They've been successful in one place. Where I've been successful across the globe. I give respect to those who deserve it. I don't walk around and figuratively spit in everyone's faces and act like I'm something special.

Sure... I have an ego. Then again, when you think about it Loki. Who doesn't ? (laughs). Its not that I don't exactly think people like O'Dell or Primo or any other original are bad atheletes. There pretty good at what they do, and I respect there ability. However, when that same respect isn't being returned ? Then we have a problem.

At the end of day. Despite all of my frustrations and anger towards XWA over some of there booking decisions. I feel as if I'm obligated to stick around. I don't know why that is. Maybe its because of my pride in what I do. Perhaps I feel as if they really do need me on occasion. I really don't no and can't give you a clear answer to this, Loki.

I think at the end of the day, bro. I just want to feel like I'm wanted in a place, ya know ? Feel like my work means something. That I've inspired somebody to go out and be like me. Work just as hard as I do to achieve there goals, there destinies.

For me, I just wanna prove to XWA and to the world that I have at least one good World Championship run left in me. That I can be one of the originals and carry the torch. I really don't think a individual has to be in a federation from day one to do that.

Then again, on the other hand. There's your federation, the XCW.

A group of wrestlers whom are considered as renegades in the XWA locker room. But, what I see is a bunch of wrestlers who want to show XWA that they can be every bit as good as there stars can be. A place where new stars can shine, and veterans can be resurrected and reborn into the spotlight for one final act.

Fact is, at the end of the day. I gotta do whats best for Brandon Payne. I can't live a lie anymore and try to pretend that I'm somebody I'm not. I think its time I go back to basics. Get back to the way I was before.

People wanted me to change and be one of them. Fact is, I can't change. I am who I am. But then again, that's what makes me unique. If the whole world was the same person, what kind of world would be living in ? A very boring and dull one I can assure you.

I won't lie to you, Loki. Everytime I go out there to perform for XWA. I give it a 110% everytime. Whether I'm sick, hurt, or whatever the case maybe. Why do I do this ? Because I choose to do it. I did it for an opportunity to hopefully be considered in the same breath as those originals are. I do it because its my job. I do it... simply because its my passion.

In these last several weeks. I started to see myself getting pushed away. Perhaps not seeing myself as part of the big picture I was once thought to be in.

Maybe.... just maybe.... I do need a change. Maybe... XCW would be a good step in the right direction.

Don't take that as a definite 'yes', Loki. But... more of a 'maybe' or 'maybe not'.

One thing I wanna make sure from you. Before I even make a decision. I gotta know, and I want the honest truth from you.

This is a legit offer to join XCW ? I mean, I'm not just gonna join your group of wrestlers. Then get attacked by your boys and thrown out like a piece of garbage with no place to run, or to go to am I ? Cause you see, I've played enough games around here. I'm not in the mood to play anymore.

[Loki Alverton]

Before I walk into any business meeting, I do my homework Brandon, however in your situation, I am a fan of the sport and of the man and the history that stands behind him. Your history is one that children dream of having when they are growing up and wish to be a professional wrestler. You and all the men in TNB helped lay the foundation for companies such as XCW as well as many others that none of us have heard of yet. As for Kayn, you are correct. The man personified being a class act. Just like you I have never had any formal introductions with him, however from all the discussion in the locker room no one had a bad thing to say about the man. It was due to this that he was an unfortunate victim in this "invasion", a man that was loved and respected by not only the fans but also by all the people in the company that he worked for would make people stand up and take notice that we are extremely serious about getting ourselves noticed. Yes, we could have targeted someone like Syrus or O'Dell, but where would that have left us? While they are big names, they are not revered as the embodiment of the company they work for, as much as they would like to believe they are. We only target people that have potential to get us known. I will be honest with you Brandon, we could have turned Damien loose on anyone in XWA, including yourself, however we, including myself, saw your frustration with your employer, why would we want to make things more difficult for you bu taking you out of action for an unknown amount of time? We saw the potential in you and instead just waited for our time to have this kind of discussion.[/font]

Loki sat back and lit his cigar and took a sip from his gin and tonic.

I can understand the obligation that you feel toward the XWA. I heard about the times you walked away, but they still allowed you to return. If I was in the same situation, I would feel obligated to stay with them until I could no longer walk, however I know that I would not be able to look myself in the mirror knowing that was not how I wanted to live. I would want to do things on my own terms, just like it sounds like you wish to do. As for your thoughts of being attacked by the other wrestlers, let me put that fear to rest right now. We in the XCW, even though we are being painted as thugs, are not. We are professionals and we are good at what we do, perhaps the best, and attacking someone that wanted to be a part of that would not be conducive to our goals. We want all our stars to be happy where they are and turning the entire locker room against someone does not make a good work environment for anyone. Now if someone does something to turn the locker room against them, that is their problem, however there are no plans to give you a fraternity like initiation.[/font]

As Loki finished that statement the waitstaff brought Brandon and Loki's dinner. After the staff left, Loki continued.

I understand that you are not making a definite answer right now. As a matter of fact, I would not accept a definitive answer tonight. I would prefer you go home, think it over for a few days and make sure that if this something you wish to do, it is something YOU wish to do. Make sure you are not doing it to "get back" at the XWA, make sure you are not doing it to turn your back on the fans, make sure it is for you and your career. Come to the next show and come see how we work backstage if you wish.[/font]

As Loki began to cut into his steak, he chuckled slightly.

If you really want, take some time and discuss it with your old friend Chris Lionheart to get his take on the situation.[/font]

Loki took a bite of his steak and waited for a reply from Brandon.

[Μyster Controversy™]

At the end of the day. That's all I want to do Loki. I learned along time ago. You can't make everyone happy. People are either going to love or hate you. There's no other way to go about it. No matter what route you take.

Its very reassuring to know that if I did join XCW. I wouldn't have to worry about any kind of backstabbing, or sneak attacks.

2008 was excellent last year. It was one great thing after another here for me. You see, Loki. Ever since TNB had died. I never could find another federation to call a 'home'. I drifted from federation to federation for the last few years. When I got the offer to return to XWA. I felt it was now or never. I figured, I can make something of myself here and finally find a place I could truly call home once more.

When I came back to XWA a year ago. I felt it was time for me to make a change. I changed my name, I changed practically everything that me successful to make XWA happy. So I wouldn't have to walk down the aisle every single night as 'Genesis' and rip into everyone like I used to do. They didn't want me to upstage anybody. They wanted me to be on there level, and there level only. Never to exceed them.

For me, I was cool with that honestly. I mean, did have success last year.

However, as we continue rolling on through 2009 ? I feel that it was a lost cause. Look where I'm at now ? They give me a push to be a main eventer ? Then they kill off my run and I'm back to doing nothing. Same thing this year. I go into Vendetta thinking 'Alright, were on the right track. This is where I need to be'. Then suddenly, I lose the match and bam ! Guess what !? Back to square one. Hell I wasn't even considered to be apart of the Mayday at any capacity.

Thats when I made my decision. I needed to take action now, or keep living in a life of mediocrity. I wasn't going to stand for it. I kept my mouth shut, and did what they told me to do. I did everything that was asked. And for what ? So I can sit back and watch some clown take a spot that I should've been in along time ago ?

However...

I have to admit. Despite all of that. I have felt that.. a majority of the XWA roster is my family. Hmph... I even grown to be quite fond of them.

But your right, Loki. I gotta do whats best for me. I have to do whats best for Brandon Payne. Not XWA, neither XCW.

I do have to take some time to think things through. XWA has a little PPV coming up called Soul Survivor. I'm assuming that yourself, and the XCW stars plan to be there right ?

Would that be a more, appropriate time to give you, Gallas, and everyone else my answer ?

[Loki Alverton]

I will definitely be in attendance of the next pay per view as well as some of my associates and I think that would give you ample time to make sure your decision is one you are satisfied with. But let's not discuss that now, tonight, let's enjoy the great food that we have here in front of us and the possibility of a great business partnership. [/font]

The night continued on and Loki and Brandon discussed a few different things. Things ranging from superstars they looked up to as children to the best places in the world to have a beer. As the night wore on so did the conversations until finally the meal and drinks were finished. As the men were leaving the restaurant, Loki reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a business card.

If there comes a time that you want to take me up on the offer of looking at the backstage area of the XCW, go ahead and give me a call on my personal cellular number. I will make all the necessary arrangements for you to be my personal guest, no strings attached. [/font]

Loki handed his business card to Brandon and waited for a reply.

[Μyster Controversy™]

Brandon takes his card and slides into his front coat pocket.

Will do Mr. Alverton, will do. Thanks for the dinner invite. And also, thanks for the invitation. I may just have to take up your offer and stop by backstage next week. Besides, I think it would be great for me familiar with what could potentially be my new surroundings. That, and plus I'd like to meet some of the XCW stars as well, if at all possible.

[Loki Alverton]

Loki smiled as Brandon took his card, and after a quick handshake the two men went their separate ways. Once Loki reached his limo, he climbed into the backseat and pulled out his cell phone and dialed a number. After a few seconds Loki spoke.

It's me..... I just finished.... I could tell by the look in his eyes he wanted to sign right now, but I told him to think about it..... Exactly...... Soul Survivor..... Right..... Whether he joins or not the seeds have been planted.... I completely agree..... Excellent..... OK, I will be at your office tomorrow morning..... You have a good night as well.[/font]

With that Loki closes his cell phone and sits back to relax on the car ride home.

END