Posted by Freddy Phoenix on March 21, 2004, 11:45 am

[The rain pours down upon the figure of Freddy Phoenix, as he makes his way down the streets of London. Freddy once called this city home, but that was back in the days of the LBWF. This is the first time he's left his hotelroom since arriving. When you're not use to it, that flight across the Atlantic can be hell.] That's one thing I've never missed about this place... the damn constant rain! [Right now Freddy's braving this downpour, trudging along to one of his old haunts. He makes his way past the New London Theatre, slowly rounding the corner of the building. For the first time in a long time, a smile graces the face of Freddy Phoenix. He's finally made it to his destination, as he looks up on the Prince of Wales Pub.] Some things never change. [He makes his way through the front door, instantly being assaulted by the cloud of smoke within. Freddy can't help but chuckle upon passing the "No Children Allowed" sign.] I knew there was a reason I liked this place. [Freddy makes his way over to the bar, tossing a handful of Euros on the counter.] Freddy: "I need a pint of Spitfire." [The bartender is wiping a glass mug, as he glances towards Freddy. A smile comes to his face.] Bartender: "Well, well, well... if it isn't Freddy Phoenix. What brings you back to London?" Freddy: "I take it you haven't heard... I've got a match, in the Hello No Dome of all places." Bartender: "I guess that means you're still wrestling?" Freddy: "That shouldn't come as much of a surprise to you Jack, it's not like I'm really cut out for anything else." [The old fellow smiles, before slamming Freddy's beer down on the bar.] Bartender: "So who're you facing.?" [Freddy hesitates a moment, taking a sip of his beer.] Freddy: "Llewelyn Yr Penaig for the CAL Wor..." Bartender: "That Welsh bastard, I hope you give his arse a good kicking!" [There's a nod from Freddy Phoenix.] Freddy: "I hope so." [He takes another drink, as he stands up from his stool. Freddy looks outside, noticing that the rain has momentarily stopped.] Freddy: "Well, I think I'm going to grab a seat by the window. That way I can laugh at the tourist when the rain starts back up. I always find it amusing, watching them scatter for cover." Bartender: "If you need anything, just holler." [He gives Jack another nod, as he takes a seat at one of the window tables.] It's funny, it seems as if I'm coming full circle. I got my big break courtesy of the LBWF... now I find myself back at my old stomping grounds. When I think about my LBWF days, I don't see a man who enjoyed a lot of success. During my tenure with that organization, I never even won a title. Though I finally have my chance at gold in the old Hello No Dome... the biggest title in all of professional wrestling is mine for the taking. [He looks out the window, a slight smile coming to his face.] Maybe I should take in a show. I could really use a relaxing evening, take my mind off business for a little while. [Freddy's referring to the signs for "Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" that are hanging on the sides of the New London Theatre across the way. He leans back in his chair, taking another sip of his pint.] Then again, I've never been much of the theatre going type. [The sounds of rain fill the streets, as it starts to pour down. He laughs slightly. Just as Freddy expected, the tourists all run for cover. This is totally offset by the fact that the locals are unphased.] You can't buy this kind of amusement. [Freddy finally finishes off his beer, as he sits looking at the empty glass.] When a man's thirty, he gets a drink. Once the drink is gone, hopefully his thirst is quenched. If it's not... he always knows that he can just get another drink. What if you weren't able to just get another drink, what if the first one had taken you forever to get. You wouldn't want to waste it, you'd cherish every single sip. For nearly ten years now, I've desired nothing other than being the World Heavyweight Champion. I can finally see the end of that tunnel, there's finally a light coming into view. The real question is, if I waste this chance... will there be another opportunity? [He glances around the smoking pub, looking over the bar's many occupants.] After ten years, I'm inclined to think the answer is no. This is going to be my one shot, my one chance at my dream. It is all or nothing, I can't blow this opportunity. I'll either become a world champion in London, or I won't... it's that simple. So what am I doing wasting my time around here? [Freddy Phoenix stands up, heading straight for the door. He gives a nod to the bartender, before exiting the establishment.] There's no rest for the weary, I've got to be ready for Llewelyn... he'll be ready for me. [He makes his way back into the downpour, starting down the street in a jog.] (Fade Out)