After surprising Michelle with an impromptu visit to Disneyland Paris, Sean Parker found himself driving down the freeway in Santa Monica, back home in California and making his way to the Academy when the scene opened up.

The last few days had been a blur. The calamity of Road To Ruin and what happened during the main event, then the even bigger shock of a marriage proposal, along with a new number one contender being declared for the HWA World Championship, the entire wrestling world was talking about Sean Parker and what was next on the horizon for him.

Every pro wrestling dirt sheet, information outlet, journalist - you name it - all wanted their pound of flesh of the Sky Assassin. Everyone wanted to interview him, get his thoughts on everything that had happened in the last week. With how active he already was on social media and his almost cult-level following on Twitch, Sean was no stranger to his socials blowing up with notifications and DMs. However, this was next level. He and Michelle had been home from their trip for a couple of days and both their respective family circles as well as close friends had been demanding to see them both to get the low-down on their engagement. Michelle had touched base with her parents and they’d agreed that both she and Sean would travel to Salt Lake City for a proper celebration during the holidays.

The Parkers though… they hadn’t been informed before of Sean’s intent to propose to Michelle, with him having kept his cards very close to his chest save for Michelle’s parents and brothers. Even though Michelle herself had been nervous and anxious at the potential reactions from Butch and Wisdom, Sean could have cared less. His phone of course had been bombarded with messages and voice notes from his aunt and uncle as well as Aunt Diana back home in Scotland. He would get to them properly in due course and he had duly sent polite acknowledgements to everyone to let them know as much.

Today though, all Sean wanted to do was get back to training. As much as being engaged to Michelle was amazing and there was so much planning to do, people to speak to and likely a tornado of media duties Butch was likely going to have him do, he still had a job to do and a goal in his head. Become HWA World Champion. So, when he’d seen the notification sent from Butch to all the roster members advising of the last Havoc card of 2024, seeing…

“Tobias Clarke vs. Stu-E Price
HWA World Championship”

…it wasn’t what he was expecting, especially after the outcome of Tobias’ match with Wolfy at Road To Ruin. A small part of Sean wanted to storm into Butch’s office and demand why he wasn’t being given a title match but that now-familiar feeling of calm suddenly washed over him, like a comforting hand on his shoulder that seemed to give him some much-needed perspective. Sensei Kiriyami’s unique training, Kokoro no Michi had done wonders for calming the tempestuous storms that had been clouding his vision over the last few months - Price’s antics, Michelle getting hurt, the outcome of Ring Master to name but a few. And Lord knows, Sean definitely needed it after everything that had occurred lately. And, having listened to what Maniac had to say, he had a feeling he’d need it more than ever.

After pulling into the parking lot of the Academy, Sean grabbed his training back and his phone pinged again - not for the first time today. He puffed his cheeks out, thumbing the screensaver away to see the message and his face morphed into a smile when he saw Michelle’s name flash up. She’d sent him a picture of her hand with the engagement ring wrapped around her finger and a big smile on her face along with the words ”Love you, fiancee! Mwah! xxx”. Sean grinned, holding his thumb down on the picture and selecting the heart reaction before replying in kind. He put his phone back in his pocket and proceeded to make his way towards the front doors of the Academy, knowing the likely barrage of questions that was about to come his way.

Sean walked through the automatic sliding doors that happened upon his approach and strode up to the main reception where the receptionist grinned at him knowingly.

The usual hum of activity in the lobby of the Academy was now accompanied by the faint sound of holiday music drifting through hidden speakers, soft jingles and cheerful melodies weaving through the air. A towering Christmas tree dominated one corner of the reception area, adorned with twinkling lights, glittering ornaments, and a star that nearly touched the ceiling. Red and gold garlands and tinsel draped along the walls, intertwined with fairy lights that cast a warm glow over the space.

The scent of pine mingled with the faint aroma of coffee brewing in the nearby lounge, where a few trainees were gathered, sipping from cups and talking animatedly about the upcoming holiday schedule. A Bob mannequin in wrestling gear stood by the tree, sporting a comedic Santa hat and holding a candy cane like a microphone, adding a humorous touch to the otherwise elegant decorations.

(Receptionist): Well, look who it is! Mister Engaged himself! Congratulations!

Sean shook his head in response along with a smile.

(Sean): Hey, Wendy, thanks.

(Wendy): Who knew you were so romantic! I mean, Disneyland Paris, in front of the castle! I think I would’ve cried!

(Sean): Well, Michelle did, and so did I a little…

(Wendy): Aww, you big softy! Well, I’m so happy for both of you. Your uncle wants to see you, and so does Sensei Kiriyama.

Sean sighed audibly, biting on his bottom lip. Figures, he thought. He looked at Wendy, almost pleadingly.

(Sean): I don’t suppose there’s any private training rooms available? I really just want to work out and ignore all this noise, for a few hours at least.

Wendy’s eyes diverted to her computer monitor and a look of resignation then crossed her face before she looked back to Sean.

(Wendy): Sorry, Sean, they’re all being used. Maniac and Wolfy just took the last one about an hour ago.

Sean couldn’t hide his disappointment if he tried and the audible grunt of exasperation that escaped his throat did nothing to help it either.

(Sean): You’re kidding? Maniac and Wolfy are both here? Right now?

(Wendy): ‘Fraid so, sorry, Sean. Starlight Kid has one in use right now but she’s only got it for another half an hour or so. There’s no one in the media suite though, you can hide in there if you like until then?

Sean felt his stomach involuntarily drop at the mention of Starlight Kid’s name. He hadn’t seen or spoken with her at all since the aftermath of the main event of Road To Ruin.

(Wendy): Poor thing is still cut up about what happened at the pay-per-view I think although it’s hard to tell with that mask of her’s. I have to say, it was very big of you to forgive her the way you did, Sean.

Sean didn’t give a verbal answer, instead of opting for a half-hearted smile and an acknowledging raise of his eyebrows.

(Sean): Yeah, well, what’s done is done. Listen, I’m going to head to the media suite to kill a bit of time. Do me a favor? Please don’t let on to anyone I’m here. Like, just put down that Sensei has booked the training room for a private lesson or something. I just really want some alone time before the shit inevitably hits the fan and I have to deal with… everything…

Wendy just smiled understandingly, giving Sean a subtle wink.

(Wendy): Of course.

The look of relief on Sean’s face was evident as he shifted his bag on to his other shoulder.

(Sean): Wendy, you’re an absolute superstar, thank you, I owe you one! I best get going before someone sees me.

Sean proceeded to pull the hood of his hoodie up over his head and make his way through the main atrium of the Academy building. He kept his head down as much as he could, navigating his way past the body of students working out until he made it to the Academy’s state of the art media suite. A relieved sigh escaped Sean’s mouth as he slumped into one of the office-style chairs, spinning around it in as he lifted his hood back and ran a hand through his hair.

For a moment, he allowed himself to relax, staring up at the ceiling. But the moment didn’t last long. He’d heard Maniac’s usual - and predictable spiel - earlier and knew he’d have to acknowledge it at some point. He figured he had some time to kill until the training room Wendy had set aside for him became available. With that in mind, Sean decided to pull himself upright and roll his shoulders, mentally preparing himself. He reached for the nearby control panel and began setting up the cameras and lights, adjusting them until they perfectly framed the scene.

He stood in the center of the room, staring into the lens with an intense focus. The red recording light blinked on, and Sean’s demeanor shifted immediately.

(Sean): You know, Maniac, it’s funny hearing you talk about having a passion for HWA, like it’s some kind of sacred bond we all share. some sick, twisted sentiment that, despite all of our differences, the one thing that brings us together is HWA, is that it? Forgive me if I’m having trouble putting even the slimmest morsel of Yuletide faith in that, Maniac. Because I know you. I know that every word or sentiment that you speak needs to be taken with a Hell’s Guardian-sized pinch of salt. But, for once, you are actually right about one thing. We don’t always get what we want.

Sean turned his hands inward, touching his chest in a motioning gesture.

(Sean): Me? I wanted to cement my name in HWA history at Ring Master. Become both the first second-generation Ring Master winner and World Champion. Alas. And you? You wanted to be everything a true veteran of professional wrestling should be—selfless, giving, a vestibule of knowledge and guidance. It could’ve happened, Maniac. Had you decided to leave your pathetic, overinflated ego at the door. Instead, what happened? You became bitter, turning into nothing more than a parasite, feeding off the leftovers of a legacy you were never fit to carry, ending careers and destroying lives of anyone you came into contact with.

Tell me, Maniac, just how does it feel to want so badly to be a savior, only to end up a leech? First it was Matt, whom without you’d be as relevant as Bryan Deas right now. And then Erica. Two young upstarts whose lives and careers have been completely eviscerated all because of you.

And now that you’ve finally managed to exorcise your demons, literally, you’re doing exactly what you do best - cast aside those you claim to care about. Don’t get me wrong, I have no love for Erica Martinez given what she’s done this past year. But had everyone thinking you were a changed man, hell even the fans have bought into it. But what are you doing now? Certainly not sneaking into the hospital where she’s lying in critical condition, a besotted Maestro, heartbroken at what his own twisted machinations have caused. No, you’ve cast Erica aside just like you’ve done with everyone you've aligned yourself with once they’ve served their purpose. And now you have the gall to think you deserve an opportunity to be World Champion?

Sean shook his head with a wry smirk on his face.

(Sean):No, Maniac, you’re right. We don’t always get what we want. And that goes for you too. See, I let my dream slip through my fingers in front of the entire world, not once but twice and I have to live with that for the rest of my life.

But I know I have what it takes to be the World Champion. I don’t care if I have to wait six months or a year, I don’t care who holds the belt, whether it’s Price, Clarke or anyone else. I will be HWA World Champion. I promise you that. As for you? If you think you can ride that tiny little wave of momentum you’re surfing on the back of Road to Ruin and use my head as a stepping stone into 2025, you’re sadly mistaken, Maniac.

This Christmas, I’m afraid you’re not getting what you want and that’s for everyone to keep believing the bullshit that spews from your lips every time you open your mouth. For me to be your golden ticket to the World Title. For you to have anything resembling the career you so desired to have when Butch returned your call almost two years ago.

You see, Maniac, you had your fun once upon a time playing with Matt’s and Jeremt’s emotions like twisted playthings. I promise you, Maniac, you won’t get a hat-trick with me.

Sean’s demeanor shifted again, growing more serious; his eyes flickering with a spark of emerald green fire.

(Sean): I will concede one more thing though. 2024 will end with a bang. But it won’t be sweet death that seals the deal, no. It’ll be a pain slice across the carotid artery, with a lightning-fast Masamune Decapitation. And as I lift your severed head off the canvas and stare into the eyes of your death mask, when the last synapses of neurons fire off in your brain, the last thing you’ll see won’t be the prospect of a World Championship match. No. It’ll be the face of the Sora no Ansatsusha.

Off-camera, as Sean put the finishing touches on his promo, stepping out of the media suite, gym bag in hand, he was just about to pull his hood up, when a familiar voice could be heard.

(???): Sean David Parker!

Sean stopped dead in his tracks, like an otherworldly force was holding him place. The all-too-familiar voice of Butch Parker caught him off-guard and Sean suddenly felt like a high schooler who had skipped class being caught by the Principle. He screwed his face up, back still turned as he tried his best to conjure up some excuse out of his arse. Eventually he turned around, preparing for the barrage he was sure to follow. Sean felt the slap on his shoulder that involuntarily jolted him forward, as if the Eighth Wonder of the World himself had just hit him.

(Butch): Let me get this straight, my only nephew gets engaged out of nowhere and I have to find out on TikTok of all places?!

(Sean): Look, Butch, I can explain, I didn’t tell anyone apart from Michelle’s parents and it was only because I wanted their blessing. I’m so sorry, it wasn’t meant to be underhanded or anything like that.

As Sean rattled off his justification at what seemed like a million miles per hour, he hadn’t noticed Butch’s expression. It was emblazoned with the widest, most proud smile imaginable.

(Butch): I’m pulling your pisser, Sean, ya big dafty! Come here!

Butch, still walking with the aid of a crutch after his match with Red Dragon at Road To Ruin, proceeded to pull Sean into a big bear hug. Eventually, Butch released his nephew from his grip, his smile still as wide as it was before.

(Butch): You really think you could sneak in here and sweet talk Wendy?
Sean couldn’t believe Butch’s demeanor and reaction, expecting him to have gone off the rails at keeping his intent to propose to Michelle a secret, save for Michelle’s parents. So his uncle wrapping him in a huge hug and seemingly over the moon had thrown him quite a bit.

(Sean): Wait, so you’re not mad for not telling you?

(Butch): I mean, would it have been nice to have a little bit of a heads-up but am I mad? Of course not! I’m over the moon for you, Sean. Both your aunt and I are, for that matter. What better way to end the year after everything that’s happened! Plus, David and Evina are very excited too, I’m sure Eevee will be angling to finally be a flower girl.

Sean felt an instant pang of relief and knew that Michelle would feel the same. She’d been so nervous about Butch and Wisdom’s reaction to their engagement. So hearing about Butch’s delight would go a long way to reassure her.

(Sean): I’m sure Michelle would be delighted for her to be part of the ceremony, and before you ask, no, we haven’t set a date.

Butch just chuckled.

(Butch): I didn’t ask! I’m sure Wisdom, Sarah and Alexis will have plenty of questions for Michelle though.

(Sean): Don’t get me started; she’s already stressing out about you and Aunt Wisdom’s reactions. Did you know she was panicking in Disneyland after I popped the question because she was getting herself in a tizzy about the internet finding out before you guys? Seriously, we were on “It’s A Small World” and she was frantically rummaging in her bag trying to find her phone.

(Butch): Bless her, she’s such a sensitive wee soul. So, will we be getting a blow-by-detail over Christmas?

Sean screwed his face up again.

(Sean): We kinda agreed to spend Christmas in Utah with Michelle’s folks.

They’re so excited- not that you guys aren’t! It’s just with the whole Mormon thing, they take this stuff ridiculously seriously.

Butch just laughed and shook his head which was only met with an even more bewildered look from Sean.

(Sean): What? What’s so funny?

(Butch): The thought of you trying to make small talk with Michelle’s relatives whilst her dad stares a hole through your skull like Ghost Rider’s Penance Stare.

Sean rolled his eyes but couldn’t help smiling too.

(Sean): Hey, Michelle’s dad and I get on a lot better than we used to! And her mum is really nice, she reminds me of Auntie Di, constantly shoving food down my throat because I’m a “growing boy”.

Butch couldn’t contain his smile and laughter.

(Butch): And they’re both fine with you two sharing a bed together?

Sean punched Butch on the shoulder which did nothing to dissipate the latter’s laughter.

(Sean): Not that it’s any of your business, but yes, we’ve slept together plenty of times and no, not in that sense- ugh! I’m not having this conversation with you!

Butch held his hands up in concession, still chuckling away to himself.

(Butch): Oh, come on, Sean, you know I’m only messing with you!

Balancing his crutch, Butch threw a joking arm around his nephew’s shoulder, pulling him in close to him.

(Butch): Hey, if a guy can’t rip the pish out of his kid, what’s the world coming to? You know I’m only teasing and you know how chuffed I am for you.

(Sean): Okay, okay, okay, you’re off the hook.

(Butch): So, did you honestly just sneak in to cut a promo and then sneak out again like one of your video game characters?!

Sean threw a quickfire backward glance at the media suite before looking back to Butch.

(Sean): Not exactly… I came into do some training and get some peace and quiet but… Starlight Kid is training in one of the private suites and Maniac and Wolfy are in another…

The realisation dawned on Butch.

(Butch): Ahhh. And you’re not keen on interacting with any of them.

(Sean): After everything that’s happened, can you honestly blame me?

(Butch): I’m not saying I don’t, Sean but I thought, in spite of everything, you’d moved past what happened at Road To Ruin. I know you’re still pissed about the outcome and believe me, I would be too but-

Sean unexpectedly cut Butch off mid-sentence, his voice raising in volume.

(Sean): -but nothing, can we just drop it?! Price is still World Champion, I’m not, Starlight f*cked up and yeah, I forgave her but doesn’t mean I’m not allowed to be annoyed, alright?! And now I’m back at the bottom rung of the ladder and Tobias Clarke of all people gets a shot at Price next.

Butch’s laughter had now subsided. He wasn’t smiling anymore, just looking at his nephew, two sets of emerald green eyes locked on each other.

(Butch): I was wondering when you were going to mention that, surprised it took you so long.

(Sean): Look, I meant what I said at the media scrum; I don’t expect you to just instantly give me a title match but given a genuine and legit opportunity to win the title was taken from me, I thought-

(Butch): -you thought what? That I’d just throw you into the main event? Like it or not, Sean, irrespective of what Starlight did, you got distracted; you allowed yourself to become distracted and Price did what true veterans do and he kept his head on the swivel. I can’t justify throwing you not another title match yet Sean.

(Sean): I’m not asking you to, Uncle Butch! I’ll work my way back up the ladder like everyone else, but why him? Why Tobias of all people? Why not Jeremy?

(Butch): Because I said so, that’s why! I’m the boss, Sean! I make the matches, I say who gets a title shot! Because it’s down to me! You get me?

This time it was Butch’s turn to raise his voice but just like he didn’t before, Sean didn’t budge or flinch.

(Sean): Yeah…

An almost sardonic half-smile tugged at Sean’s mouth.

(Sean): …I get you. You’re the boss. Guess I’ll just have to stomp Maniac’s head into the mat on Hogmanay. Have a nice Christmas. Say hi to the kids for me. I’m gonna go work out now, if that’s ok… boss!

Sean went to brush past Butch, knowing full well he’d overreacted but he was a Parker and Parkers were too pigheaded for their own good. Then he felt it. That telltale ethereal hand on his shoulder. Sean exhaled deeply in through his nose. The feeling of calm washed over him and he bit down furtively on his lip, turning his head.

(Sean): Look, I’m sorry. That was uncalled for. You’re right, it doesn’t matter who gets a shot at Price next. It’s your choice, and I trust you to know what’s best for HWA… and me.

Butch’s smile returned. He placed a comforting hand on his nephew’s shoulder.

(Butch): I know you’re hurting, Sean. Even with all the furore and giddiness of being engaged, I know it hurts not holding that World Championship. But it will happen; I know it. You’re too good not to be a World Champion. And when that time comes, no one will be able to deny it. But for now, just concentrate on doing what’s brought you to the dance.

Sean nodded affirmingly.

(Sean): Thanks, Uncle Butch. And don’t worry about saying hi to the kids. Michelle and I will come around and see you guys before we go to Utah… if you’ll have us?

Butch echoed Sean’s nod, his smile broadening.

(Butch): We’d love that. Now go on, get out of here and go work out. I cleared the main ring, you should have the atrium to yourself for the next few hours.

Butch winked and clapped Sean on the shoulder before walking off back to his office. Sean meanwhile couldn’t help but smile, shifting the weight of his bag on to his other shoulder as he made his way to the locker room and the scene faded to black.