Armand De La Fontaine Ain't Nothin' to Fuck With (1 of 2)
Oct 25, 2015 10:46:16 GMT -5
Raymond Hatcher, Wade Moor, and 1 more like this
Post by Preecha Kamon on Oct 25, 2015 10:46:16 GMT -5
It was a lukewarm day in the streets of Downtown Austin but the humidity was still thick and the winds did nothing to clear it up. The city buzzed in its usual way with traffic, chatter, and construction on all sides almost to the point where it drifted to the back of one's mind and became a new kind of silence. And within this new silence, came the quick rhythm of foot steps. These foot steps belonged to a panicked twenty-something year old Latino with a buzz cut. He was running down the side walk, looking over his shoulder which caused him to fumble here and there. His grey muscle shirt clung to his chest with sweat dampening it into a darker shade. Not far behind, traveling by car, was Armand De La Fontaine. Armand had been tracking the young man for the last hour before the pedestrian noticed and took off at full speed down the street.
The vehicle continued to follow until the runner took a turn down the alley, causing Armand to step out of the car and walk into the dark and grimy space between. The Latino reached an obstacle as his way was obstructed by a rather tall chain link fence with there being an opening into the next street on the other side, home free. He studied the fence for a moment, judging his chances of making it over when from behind, he heard Armand call out.
Armand De La Fontaine
Every step I take is just making it worse for you. You don't want to know what will happen if you climb over that fence.
The runner looked back then returned his gaze up to the top of the fence and in a peak of anxiety, he grabbed on and slowly climbed to the top. After swinging his legs over and lowering himself down as far as he could, he dropped the rest of the way landing on his feet firmly and turned to run. But, before he could exit the alleyway, out of the darkness, in the blind spot of a dumpster, came Preecha with his usual stone-like apathetic glare before hitting the kid with a kick to the head, knocking the escapee off his feet. Preecha continued to assault him with kicks to the gut as hard as he could when Armand caught up to the scene.
The club-owner grabbed onto the links in the fence and pressed his forehead against the metal as he stared sympathetically at the defenseless victim.
Armand De La Fontaine
I warned the poor bastard. Preecha is less merciful than me.
After a hearty beat down, the man was tossed into the back of Fontaine's car with his face swollen, his gut aching, and his ribs broken. They arrived back at “The Masters and Margaritas” and dragged the kid inside to the booming scene where many failed to notice the bloodied individual. Most regulars of the nightclub were used to the sight to the point where it blended into the back of their minds, creating a new kind of normal. They brought him all the way to the back into the employee break room where multiple staff members were lounging about. Any chattering that had been going on instantly stopped once Armand and Preecha entered. They all turned to see the bloody face whom they recognized as Jorge, the young man who attempted to buy the cocaine from the Russians the week earlier. Preecha had him by the back of his neck and, without warning, tossed him into a card table where a few of the employees were playing a game of Five Card Stud. Cards went flying as Jorge collided and knocked over the table, causing the players to stand to their feet in shock.
Armand De La Fontaine
Jesus, this place is a mess.
Everyone continued to stare at Jorge as he laid on the ground, breathing heavily, unable to get to his feet. Armand slowly walked to the middle of the room and spun around, observing the people on break. His eyes were piercing and scrutinizing every last person as Preecha took to a corner of the room enjoying the fact that those in his way instantly split to make a path as soon as they saw him.
Armand De La Fontaine
Is it not enough that I give you a fine establishment to work for? Is it not enough that I give you such an incredible wages in such a faint economy? Is it not enough that I create a nice and healthy environment for you to come into everyday? Is it not enough that I gave you this break room with the finest expresso machines, with a nice HD Television, with a bookcase full of a wide variety of reading material, with enough room for everyone? Is it not enough that I treat you all with respect and not just that but to go above and beyond to make sure that your career with me is made for custom fit to work around your own needs?...
The group was silent as they stared in fear into Armand's fiery eyes. He looked from person to person, not sure exactly what he was expecting them to say but was too furious to stop his outrage.
Armand De La Fontaine
I like to think that “The Masters and Margaritas” is a family and that I do my best to make it a fucking family but it seems as of recent all I am getting from my family is a knife in the back! Jorge here...
Armand pointed to the man still lying on the floor, watching everyone's eyes shift to him once again.
Armand De La Fontaine
Thought it would be wise to betray his family and start betting for another team! Now...
Armand walked over to Jorge and as he approached, the people surrounding the young man instantly started separating until Armand was standing right next to him. The club-owner put his foot on the boy's head, pushing down with a light bit of pressure, but enough to cause Jorge to squirm slightly. Armand bent down and, while still addressing the group as a whole, directed his comments to the traitor specifically.
Armand De La Fontaine
I understand playing for the side that pays more. I understand playing for the side that has more resources. That is all business, nothing personal. But, what really hurts me is the fact that you made a choice upon a thought of anticipation. You saw someone, a small insignificant bug, who wanted to rise above and over take my operations and the thought that went through your mind was that I was going to lose. You didn't have faith in me!
Armand's face turned red with rage as his voice slowly built to a violent shouting. In turn, his foot pressed even harder on the young man's skull until it was visually apparent that Armand was pressing down with a significant amount of force that caused Jorge to helplessly claw out to any imaginary help he could get.
Armand De La Fontaine
After all I have done for you! After everything I have given you! You choose to fuck me! You choose to take everything I have taught you and use it against me like I would never find out! You ungrateful little fuck!
Armand looked up to the rest of the staff who had unconsciously moved closer but jumped back instantaneously when they found Armand's eyes on them. Preecha started moving through the people until he was at the front, watching the owner assert his dominance. In his anger, Armand's usually tediously slicked back hair had started falling out of place and a few strains now hung in his face as his eyes jerked around in a predatorial manner.
Armand De La Fountaine
What should I do with him?! What should I do with the little Judas, the little Benedict Arnold?!
Preecha stepped in and pushed Armand of Jorge and picked him up off the ground. After steadying him, The fighter looked him in the eyes. He raised his eyebrows, pointed at Jorge followed by putting up his fists then spreading his fingers toward each other. Armand rolled his eyes with a snarl as Jorge stared blankly.
Jorge
I...I...don't...
Armand De La Fontaine
He is asking you if you are scared!
Jorge nodded hesitantly. Preecha wrapped his arm around the kid's neck and led him over to a chair that was next to where the staff was playing cards and set him down. He walked over to the overturned table and set it back up and collected the cards sprawled all over the floor. Armand raised an eye brow and approached the table as Preecha shuffled the cards back together and took a seat across from Jorge.
Armand De La Fontiane
Hey...hey!
Armand waved his hand inside the view of Preecha to get his attention. The fighter looked up with an ironically attentive expression towards Armand's concern.
Armand De La Fontaine
What the hell are you planning exactly?
Preecha's response was a smirk as he continued to shuffle the cards. Armand smirked back as he began to understand Preecha's plan and then decided to take a seat at the side while switching his gaze to the turncoat.
Armand De La Fontaine
Okay Jorge, here is the game...You both are going to play a hand. The stakes are what happens to you. You win, you get to walk away and do as you please. But! If you lose...
Armand turned back to Preecha who kept his eyes on the deck he had over-shuffled at this point waiting for Armand to finish explaining the rules. Then almost in unison, they both looked to Jorge with that same devilish smirk.
Armand De La Fontaine
We break your legs.
The hands of the former employee began to shake as Preecha dealt out the cards, two to the Latino and two to himself then laid out five cards faced down.
Armand De La Fontaine
Looks like you'll be playing Texas Hold 'em. I always preferred that to five card stud; you have less of an ability to change your luck, the game really comes in with the betting and bluffing. Though, the difficulty is you can't fold or we fold your bones. But, just so the game isn't without its flavor, I think we both have things to lay on the table. Sooo...Let me make the first bet.
Armand rubbed his chin as he pondered for a moment what to lay on the line. Jorge checked his two cards and then looked over to Preecha as his face failed to ease any. Preecha was looking over at Armand, almost appearing to be irritated with how long the club-owner was taking to make his wage.
Armand De La Fontaine
Hm, the problem appears to be that being that we have the advantage, there is nothing I care to offer...How about this: If you win this hand, we will even let you keep your old job, of course you would be watched night and day without knowing who or where but I think that is a fair first raise. Now! The question you should ask yourself is if you call or raise and how you are to do either.
Jorge stared blankly as he obviously couldn't come up with anything that he felt would satisfy his possible ex-employer.
Jorge
I don't know what to bet in return.
Armand De La Fontaine
Oh come on, Jorge! You are a smart boy! I know you! You can think of something! Use that head of yours because so far your poker face is far from encouraging.
Jorge thought for a moment as Armand proceeded to tap his fingers in a broken rhythm, matching the song that could faintly be heard through the walls.
Jorge
I can tell you who I work for...
Armand shook his head in disappointment.
Armand De La Fontaine
I don't care who you work for, Jorge. That information couldn't possibly mean less to me. How about this. Since I offered you your job back if you win, if you lose...how about we also break your fingers. I think that is nice and equal.
Jorge unconsciously grasped one hand with the other as if a phantom pain had sprouted up in anticipation. The crowd surrounding the game had slowly moved closer as they were all immersed into the tension of whether or not Jorge could be so lucky as to win his life back as nothing ever happened.
Armand De La Fontaine
In fact, I think I am being rather generous considering broken bones can heal just fine. Preecha, himself, has suffered many broken bones in his time and he is still one of the best fighters I have ever managed. So! It's a call!
Armand nodded to Preecha who flipped over the first three cards. The first was a five of diamonds, then a seven of clubs and followed by a ten of diamonds. Jorge checked his cards and stared at them for what seemed an eternity where Preecha didn't even bother to lift the corner of his own. He merely continued to watch Jorge as the young man's face didn't seem to improve in the slightest. The other employees simmered with chatter that only lasted seconds before Armand asked his question.
Armand De La Fontaine
What will it be Jorge? Do you check or raise.
Jorge placed his cards down but did not move his gaze and proceeded to rap his knuckle twice on the table. Armand laughed wickedly and patted the poor kid on the shoulder.
Armand De La Fontaine
Luck is a bitch, isn't it? No worries, there is still a leg or two left to this hand, you still have a chance!...As for our wager...I'll go light and say if you win, I'll give you this nightclub...In exchange, how about you wager all your worldly possessions. Got a car? It'll be mine. Got a house? It'll be mine. Got anything worth anything? It will now be under the ownership of Armand Enterprises. Considering how much this club is worth, I think that is the only way you could match it...
The crowd held their breath and Jorge remained in his silent manner as Preecha flipped the next card over, revealing a five. A violent jolt ran through Jorge, the young man seemed moments away from spontaneously crumbling to dust.
Armand De La Fontaine
Jorge, there is only one lesson that I want you to learn from this moment right now. I don't know the cards Preecha holds, yet I am willing to make these bets without a second thought. You know why? Because I am willing to lay it on the line for my people. Unlike you, I don't shake, I don't falter, I stick to the people I invest in. I don't get scared because someone comes up with a plan to possibly take me down. I knuckle down, grit my fucking teeth and take the fucking leap! That is why we are doing this right now, because you need to stick to the cards you have been dealt and learn to take the risk and be confident in the path you have chosen. So, I have to ask, do you feel good about the direction you have chosen now?
Armand slapped Jorge across the face as he saw the young man still frozen in fear.
Armand De La Fontaine
C'mon! Wake up! How about this for a wager...
Armand dug into his pocket and pulled out a few bills and coins which he dropped onto the table.
Armand De La Fontaine
That adds up to seven dollars and thirty eight cents and I already know what I want in exchange which will worth exactly the same. Your dignity...
Jorge took an empty and dry swallow as he looked up at Armand, this time with a stern and straight glare as Armand continued to insult him.
Armand De La Fontaine
If we win, we will make sure everyone will know you were a coward. They will know that you turned on your family because you got scared. Honestly, we will only be telling the truth so I don't think it is unfair...
Jorge
No!...
The surrounding bystanders were shocked by the sudden reply from Jorge and that it was delivered with any force at all. The defiant rogue's mouth twitched as the color still remained drained from his face but his eyes burned with an impressive flame.
Jorge
I am not a coward! If there was anything or anyone I was scared of, it was you. I went out on a risk knowing full well that if I was caught, there was a good chance I wasn't going to make it out alive. Now, I might be scared still but it is because my body knows there is a chance. The shaking is not the fear growing. It is the last shred of hope trying to survive. So, I will put it like this: If I lose, it is not my dignity I will lose. I am not going to try to get away with as much as possible if this hand ends up being an unlucky draw. If I lose, I rather be dead than live known as a coward. So, my wager is my life.
Armand appeared to be amused by the sudden revelation coming from his former employee. He rubbed his chin and looked back at Preecha who stared back blankly.
Armand De La Fontaine
What a helluva poker face...
Armand turned back around and slapped Jorge on the knee.
Armand De La Fontaine
Alright! I'll tell you what I will do. I'll be fair. I'll do the only thing that is equal in my view. Life for a life. If you are brave enough to do it, then so am I. If I win, you are six feet deep and if you win, I will go to the grave without any objections. That seems fair to me. Okay Preecha, let's have it...
Instead of flipping over the card though, Preecha tapped Armand on the shoulder. Armand turned back to see what was the deal and saw that the fighter was pointing over to the entrance of the break room. The club-owner spun around to see Trinity Hayashi standing in the doorway with a bewildered yet scrutinizing glare going around before landing on Armand himself. She wore her usual business attire, tight great skirt and all. And this time instead of just Armand and Preecha gawking, it was the entire staff.
Trinity Hayashi
What exactly is going on here?...
Armand stood to his feet automatically and approached the attractive, yet clean slated woman from Standards and Practices. He smiled as if caught in mist of a celebration and all the onlookers quickly broke away and nonchalantly went on with their own thing, not wanting to give any weight to any trouble.
Armand De La Fontaine
Ah! Ms. Hayashi! What brings you here?! You caught us in the middle of a friendly little game.
Trinity looked him up and down with suspicion, making sure to keep a little distance between the two of them.
Trinity Hayashi
Following up with my look into your company. Why does it appear that the man at the table is battered and bruised?!
Armand De La Fontaine
Just a little incident in the club. A few assholes came in thinking they owned the place and trying to be a hero, my little friend here tried to toss them out himself. The risks of choosing employment with a nightclub, I assure you. Though, I must ask you. I recently had a little internet fiasco with a co-worker of yours, a Mr. Jonah Worth. Are you familiar with him? Is he a part of your crew?
Trinity Hayashi
I am afraid not. I think he is someone #BeachKrew personally brought in but I don't know for sure. Sometimes wires get crossed and we find ourselves with a redundant situation.
Armand De La Fontaine
Well, I do hope that this will not cause you to be pulled out of WCF by any means and deprive us of your professional presence?
Trinity Hayashi
Ummm...yeah. I'm not worried about it, but if we could get back on topic...
Suddenly, seeing that Armand was floundering with the S&P representative, Preecha stood up from the table and approached the two, greeting Ms. Hayashi with touching his chin with the tips of his fingers, bringing the backside down to the palm of his other hand and then holding the first hand up, palm facing outward, and touching the elbow with the tips of the fingers of his other hand. Ms. Hayashi returned the gesture and followed up with putting her knuckles back to back and turning her hands upwards then pointed to Preecha who replied with holding his left hand up, palm facing to the right, his fingers spread, and then moved it forward slightly before repeating her gesture and seeing her reply in the same way.
Armand De La Fontaine
Wait. You learned sign language? In the span of a week?!
Trinity Hayashi
Well, Mr. Fontaine, I take great care to make sure I can communicate with the people I work with. I felt that it was important to learn Sign Language if I was going to continue to speak with Mr. Kamon.
Armand glanced at Preecha who was smirking in a rather uncharacteristically up-beat manner. Armand caught wind to what the fighter was thinking and pressed his knuckle into his employee's ribs.
Armand De La Fontaine
How about you head back to work, Preecha ol' pal. Make sure no one is tearing up my club out there...
Preecha snorted at Armand before turning to Trinity and giving a slight nod and then walked out of the break room.
Armand De La Fontaine
Sooo...Everything looking good here? Am I in the green? I am sure you saw our debut on slam last week. Made quite an impact if I do say so myself.
Trinity sighed as she adjusted her glasses.
Trinity Hayashi
I will say I was somewhat surprised at your lack of vulgarity, considering our first encounter. I imagine there will be obstacles down the line but here's to hoping that this trend keeps up. Though, I have to say your presence on twitter has been a little more worrisome...
Armand De La Fontaine
What are you going to do? Bunch of cocksuckers like #Beachkrew ruining good competition.
Trinity Hayashi
Mr. Fontaine!
Armand De La Fontaine
What?! I mean, nothing wrong with that. If they like sucking cock, there isn't nothing wrong with that. I am just saying they were too busy with each others' cock in their mouth that they couldn't properly read what I was saying and so it got ugly. I'm not homophobic. Just saying. Ain't nothing about being gay. Someone likes to suck cock, their a cocksucker. Like, I bet your a cocksucker. I don't mean anything by it. Just saying what's true...
Ms. Hayashi's face went red as her fingernails dug into her palm while she tried to resist the urge to rip at Armand's face. But, even with her great effort to stay professional, some rage managed to escape out.
Trinity Hayashi
I can't stand you! I have a feeling that the further you get on in life, the more alone you will be until there is no one left! And it will be one day as your are struggling by, exhausted and hurting, when you can feel your heart about to beat out of your chest that you will reach out for someone to be there because it will be that moment that you will need someone the most, to know you won't die alone. To only find your hands empty with no one to hold them as you finally collapse! And I hate to say such terrible things but I will not feel sorry for you in the slightest!...Just saying what's true!...
There was a moment of silence between the two as Armand stared amazed at the furious women in front of him. Trinity's face ever so slowly drained of its redness and returned back to its natural shade, feeling only the slightest bit embarrassed by her outburst.
Armand De La Fontaine
...You have no idea how hot that was...
Trinity Hayashi
Of course! You sick little man! My office will keep in touch with you!
Trinity stormed her way out of the club. With a big shit eating grin, the club-owner turned around to Jorge who he had totally forgotten about and who had remained sitting there, not knowing what to do with himself. Armand approached the young man and patted him on the back.
Armand De La Fontaine
How about we call it a draw...and as compromise, instead of killing you or breaking your bones, I give you five days to pack your things and get out of the state. But I mean you get the fuck out. Okay?
Jorge nodded, stood up and hurried out of the room, happy enough to comply with the circumstance. Curious, Armand looked to the table where the cards still were. He grabbed the last card and flipped it over to reveal a nine of spades. He then flipped over Preecha's cards which were a five of hearts and a seven of spades; giving him a full house. Armand walked over to the other side and picked up Jorge's cards.
Armand De La Fontaine
Haha! Texas Hold 'em...What an amazing game!
Jorge's cards were an eight of clubs and a Jack of diamonds. Giving him a straight.
The next morning, Armand was sitting in his office with his feet kicked up onto his desk and newspaper in hand. He was enjoying the quiet hour as he heard no irritatingly bassy club music, had nobody to chase down, and there was no particularly urgent business to be taking care of. So, he figured it would be nice to catch up on the news and let time slip by for a little bit. He was in the middle of reading an article about astronomers watching a black hole tear a star apart when he heard his office door open. Armand peeked over his news paper to see Preecha poking his head in. His hair dripped wet and a towel hung over his bare neck. Armand folded up the newspaper and swung his legs off the desk.
Armand De La Fontaine
Taking a break from training? Honestly I don't know why you are working so hard. This match seems like a dud to me.
Preecha took a seat in front of the desk. He raised his hand and formed a three with his thumb high over his pinky followed by his fingertips pressed against his palm and his thumb up, then lifted his index finger with his thumb over his middle one, ending with retracting his index finger and putting his thumb over all four fingernails.
Armand De La Fontaine
Indeed. But, honestly I wouldn't put my money on any of your opponents. Well, except Patrilli, he is a part of the family now...
Suddenly, the intercom on Armand's desk buzzed. His secretary Mara Dietz could be heard on the other end of the lo fi speaker.
Mara Dietz
Mr. De La Fontaine, a Mr Hank Brown is here to see you.
Armand grimaced as if having forgotten that the event was to take place and took a moment a moment to silently curse himself before pressing down on the intercom.
Armand De La Fontaine
Send him in.
After lifting off the intercom button, Armand leaned back and interlocked his fingers onto his stomach, anxiously making small rocking movements in his chat. Preecha raised an eyebrow.
Armand De La Fontaine
Hank Brown is coming in for an interview. Thought it would be good to get a word or two out and at the same time advertise the club. Totally blanked out about it...Might want to position yourself better. That is going to be Hank's seat.
Preecha shrugged as he stood up and leaned against the desk. A second later, Hank Brown entered with a camera man. Armand waved for him to take a seat which Mr. Brown gratefully accepted as the camera man began setting up next to him.
Armand De La Fontaine
Hello there Mr. Brown, so glad you could join us today! Hope it wasn't too much trouble to come down to Austin, Texas. Sometimes it just gets too busy to leave the office until the night before.
Hank Brown
No trouble at all!
Hank held out his hand and was received with a shake from Armand and then held his hand out to Preecha as well but the boxer just stared uninterested at the interviewer. Hank awkwardly retracted his hand and returned to his seat.
Armand De La Fontaine
Don't mind him. Consider it a little bit of a grudge...since you know.
Armand tapped the edge of his ear. The camera man gave Hank the thumbs up.
Hank Brown
Okay! Mister Fontaine...
Armand De La Fontaine
Mr DE LA Fontaine.
Hank Brown
alright...Mr. De La Fontaine, this weekend at Hellimination! Your clients Mr. Preecha Kamon and Mr. Patrilli are both competing in a Battle Royal for a number one contendership for the World Heavyweight Championship to be utilized before One! This will be Preecha's second match and his first Pay-Per-View match and with so many people, new, old, talented, extreme, etcetera, going after such a monumental prize, what do you feel his chances are of winning?
Armand leaned forward, placing his elbows on the desk and formed a finger pyramid as he chuckled to himself.
Armand De La Fontaine
I said it after his debut match and I will stick with it. Preecha Kamon and I are here to dominate. Now, people use this word constantly but unlike them, I know specifically what I mean by it. We are here to cut through the WCF like a hot knife through butter. We aren't going to let ourselves worry about who or what is in our way. They are all obstacles just the same and we plan on dealing with them in the same way we deal with all other obstacles. We are not going to sweat veterans thinking we're too cocky or other new guys trying (and failing) to be as hungry as us. We are not going to let ourselves be consumed by all the pageantries and due paying that people seemed so fixed on in this business. If they want us to pay dues, then they are welcomed enough to come down the ring at any point and try to teach us a most valuable lesson. But until then, I think we will just keep on with the way we are going.
People might not think it matters at all but Preecha has had a long and decorated career before his current run with the WCF and even though I can't exactly say they are sanctioned decorations to his competitive career, he achieved them none-the-less. Though I don't think it would be appropriate to brag about them anyways. You are only as good as your last fight...And Preecha brutalized in the five way bout last week. The only reason we didn't walk away with the win is because we didn't want it. We felt insulted and refused to take such an easy victory that would ultimately be forgotten about. Instead, we chose to use our time wisely and decided to leave an impact instead by having my two clients manhandle the others, to set an example for the rest of the company! We made it clear that we take what we want and we are open to any challenges.
I brought Preecha here for one reason and that is because when I look at him, I see a gift, a talent that goes beyond any standards that the world has known and it is time he was recognized for what he is! Now, that is not to play down Patrilli at all. With them both in the match, they will be working together to narrow down the numbers for sure. But, Patrilli can speak for himself. As for Preecha's actual chances of winning: I personally think he has the best shot. Our only real competition sadly is a pig farmer. So instantly, you see the gap there. The most seasoned members, Doc Henry and Adam Young are just terrible; obvious fluff so this match seems much bigger than it really is. Guys like them flood Austin, Texas; like cowboy boots are going out of style. In fact, you could almost consider it that Preecha has been training for this for the last few years with how many of these fakes he has thrown out of my club. These are hardly the guys who are going to teach us to respect WCF history. If anything, they convince me this match is just one big farce meant to pad the hype of Wade going into One as World Champ. And if it wasn't for a select few within the match up, I would refuse Preecha's participation in the event! But, Preecha seems to think there are names here that would at least put up a decent fight. Though no names besides Preecha's that should be considered worthy for a title shot.
People like Lance Savage would in fact probably be at the bottom of my list. I still want to knock this guy's teeth out myself. That is how much I can't stand the fact that management even thinks this man deserves a chance for a match for the top belt in the company, let alone deserve to be in the same ring as Preecha. This guy is not competition, he is not even a worthy human being. He is a caricature of a sack of shit and I bet you won't be seeing his face again after this match up when Preecha knocks his head in again. I'd be willing to stake my nightclubs on it. By the way! Anyone in Austin, Texas looking for a good time needn't look any further than “The Masters and Margaritas”, the classiest nightclub in the city with excellent service and amazing music!
Hank and the camera man traded glances and shrugs, as they brushed off the blatant shameless plug and continued rolling with the interview. Preecha himself looked almost as if he was going to fall asleep right there, bored out of his mind with having to stand there like a prop in something he couldn't care less about.
Hank Brown
Now, you say there are opponents that Preecha do find of significant value. Care to go into details which wrestlers those would be?
Armand De La Fontaine
Well, it is only significant value if you grade on a bell curve, to be honest. When you take such low talents such as Bad News Benson and Kenny Drake who don't seem to even worry my boy over here, people like Legion and...I can't believe I am about to say this, lord-forgive-me...Dustin Beaver tend to stick out. I would throw Vengeance in there but this guy seems to fail to leave an impression on anyone. When I ask around about him, people give me this blank stare and sometimes I even get the response of “Oh! He still works in WCF?!” So, no, I am not worried about this former Hardcore and Internet champion. The only time he could achieve anything is on a slow week when someone is dumb enough to fall for his melodramatic mysticism and creeper molester tactics of intimidation. And this is the honest to god truth, there is never a slow week with Preecha. He doesn't give a shit what your speed is. He comes out on all cylinders. That is the kind of standard he holds himself to. A-game one hundred percent of the time or he has failed himself. Vengeance is not a one hundred percent guy. He is a lukewarm card filler.
But again, just because Legion and Beaver stick out, doesn't mean they are a threat. Legion though, He is looking for competition worth having. This pig farmer is tired of torturing poor defenseless animals and Adam Young-s and has decided he is ready for bigger match ups. He wanted to be a part of this match for the mere fact that he could cause some mass destruction but I think he is in for a fair surprise because he will be plowing through the competition until he meets with the other end where my client will be standing. Legion is a tall mother fucker and he's got some weight too but people are too quick to give that shit the win. If that is all that it took then Joseph Vacher should have easily taken out everyone in Preecha's match up last week. But, that is the great thing about combat. Despite what people think, it takes a bit of smarts to hold onto any sort of consistency and that is where Preecha shines. He might seem deaf, quiet, and dumb but inside that head is a mind that is turning every hour of the day. His brain is an organic copy of Sun Tzu's “Art of War”. And the real detail that takes this man from greatness to a masterpieces is the fact that not only is his mind sharp but his body matches in durability. I saw this fucker destroy countless banana trees with his bare legs and fists. If you somehow manage to land a punch, he can take it.
So, Legion maybe be big and hell, he may have a good load of fight in him but my guy's life was shaped around taking out these shit-reeking Goliath-s. And with that said, if I don't consider the biggest man in this competition a threat then I sure as shit don't consider Dustin Beaver a threat. You see it all the time. Celebrities get bored with their calm and quiet lives being protected that they get the urge for something else. Something a bit more out of their league. Well, in a place like WCF which seems to filled with more cartoon characters than actual fighters, he is able to get away with thinking he can compete. But, what usually happens is these wannabes come across a real fighter and get their heads kicked in and go crawling back to their nice and safe little worlds with their eyes now wide open.
Now, maybe it is too late for Dustin. I have a feeling that if Preecha does any damage up in the attic there, that this dude will just get more confused and continue thinking he is some kind of fighter. So, Preecha has personally told me that he aims to end it the best way possible by simply hospitalizing Mr. Beaver. It is for his own good really. He really shouldn't be putting himself in such dangerous situations like this Disruptor Battle Royal. There is a reason an actor acts, a writer writes, a pop star sing and Preecha fights. We all have own little niche and that is where we belong. I doubt Mr. Beaver would have the urge to step into my business and I don't exactly mean the business of owning a nightclub. It is simply not the place for him. Danger isn't cool, it isn't fun. Sometimes I wish I could be bored instead of preparing myself for whoever might be coming after me. But that is not the point right now.
Dustin Beaver isn't without merit. He seemed to be having some success, most recently with those #Beachkrew shit baggers. The one thing he needs to know in this match is that there are a good amount of people taking part and not nearly as many are going to be watching his back. So, I don't particularly think he will be having such an easy time this week being carried to a win.
Overall I look at this match and I can only see it as a ploy. Either Seth isn't expecting Preecha to be as good as the hype makes out or he is looking to sky rocket someone because he really doesn't want to see #Beachkrew take over the main event entirely like it appears close to being. Not that it matters to us. We are not here to save Seth and we are not here to hype Wade. So, as I see it, if Preecha wins the Battle Royal (which he will do!) he will be facing and beating Wade for the World Heavyweight title, causing one of the biggest upsets this company has ever seen. Proving the fact that we only came here to dominate! I stand behind my client one hundred percent and would be willing to put it all on the line because here at “The Masters and Margaritas” (the hottest spot in Austin, Texas!) we are a family and I will always back family no matter what because my family has yet to disappoint me.
And that is where I will have to give myself a little bit of credit. I run a tight fucking ship! I don't do something unless I am sure about it. I go into something educated and prepared. Whether it is this fine establishment or whether it is competition, my philosophy is the same. Anything Preecha doesn't think about, I am there to fill in the gaps and make sure we are water tight. I'm not going to be one of those managers that need to hedge my bets and have a thousand different clients to make sure I run the luck of having one winner. I take my time and scout out the perfect choice and make sure the only choice I make is the right one.
Hank Brown
That is all fine and well, Mr De La Fontaine but you have yet to address the weapons that will be available in the match.
Armand De La Fontaine
What about them? They don't change a damn thing. It is not about what you have but how you use it. The one difference I imagine will be that Preecha will work out a little more aggression and the only problem I imagine I will be facing there is that trouble makers will have it easy in my club for the next week...but I am sure I will manage a way. But yeah, there is nothing in this match we haven't taken into consideration. We have considered the stakes, the competition, the stipulation and the grand stage it is all presented on. We don't go in swinging wildly. All we need is one good strike (in this case maybe eight or nine) and it will be over before you know it. Proficiency is our business model down here in “The Masters and Margaritas” (Now with Ladies night where the ladies drink free!)...
Hank Brown
Well, thank you for your time, Mr. De La Fontaine. And best of luck to you and your clients Mr. Kamon and Mr. Patrilli
Armand De La Fontaine
The pleasure is all mine! We might be new here but I have a good feeling about our stay in WCF. Make sure the bartender hooks you up before you go and make sure to tell your friends that if they are ever in Austin, Texas to come down to “The Masters and Margaritas”!
Hank Brown
Ooooo...kay...
Hank Brown shook Armand's hand while trying to ignore the horrible plugging by the club-owner. Hank thought for a moment of going for a handshake again with Preecha, he was met with a pair of hostile eyes and thought better of it. Him and the camera man exited the office swiftly before Armand turned to Preecha with a celebratory smile as if the match had already been won.
Armand De La Fontaine
I think that went rather well!
Preecha snorted and made his way out of the office.
Armand De La Fontaine
Going back to training? Ya'know you are going to train yourself into an early grave like Bruce Lee...unless you believe the chinese mafia killed him...And why am I even talking, you can't hear me, you deaf fuck...
Armand swung his legs once again back onto the desk as he looked up to the ceiling, pondering to himself.
Armand De La Fontaine
Why did Wade's comments bother him so much anyways? It's just Muay Thai, all it is is style.
...To be continued...
The vehicle continued to follow until the runner took a turn down the alley, causing Armand to step out of the car and walk into the dark and grimy space between. The Latino reached an obstacle as his way was obstructed by a rather tall chain link fence with there being an opening into the next street on the other side, home free. He studied the fence for a moment, judging his chances of making it over when from behind, he heard Armand call out.
Armand De La Fontaine
Every step I take is just making it worse for you. You don't want to know what will happen if you climb over that fence.
The runner looked back then returned his gaze up to the top of the fence and in a peak of anxiety, he grabbed on and slowly climbed to the top. After swinging his legs over and lowering himself down as far as he could, he dropped the rest of the way landing on his feet firmly and turned to run. But, before he could exit the alleyway, out of the darkness, in the blind spot of a dumpster, came Preecha with his usual stone-like apathetic glare before hitting the kid with a kick to the head, knocking the escapee off his feet. Preecha continued to assault him with kicks to the gut as hard as he could when Armand caught up to the scene.
The club-owner grabbed onto the links in the fence and pressed his forehead against the metal as he stared sympathetically at the defenseless victim.
Armand De La Fontaine
I warned the poor bastard. Preecha is less merciful than me.
After a hearty beat down, the man was tossed into the back of Fontaine's car with his face swollen, his gut aching, and his ribs broken. They arrived back at “The Masters and Margaritas” and dragged the kid inside to the booming scene where many failed to notice the bloodied individual. Most regulars of the nightclub were used to the sight to the point where it blended into the back of their minds, creating a new kind of normal. They brought him all the way to the back into the employee break room where multiple staff members were lounging about. Any chattering that had been going on instantly stopped once Armand and Preecha entered. They all turned to see the bloody face whom they recognized as Jorge, the young man who attempted to buy the cocaine from the Russians the week earlier. Preecha had him by the back of his neck and, without warning, tossed him into a card table where a few of the employees were playing a game of Five Card Stud. Cards went flying as Jorge collided and knocked over the table, causing the players to stand to their feet in shock.
Armand De La Fontaine
Jesus, this place is a mess.
Everyone continued to stare at Jorge as he laid on the ground, breathing heavily, unable to get to his feet. Armand slowly walked to the middle of the room and spun around, observing the people on break. His eyes were piercing and scrutinizing every last person as Preecha took to a corner of the room enjoying the fact that those in his way instantly split to make a path as soon as they saw him.
Armand De La Fontaine
Is it not enough that I give you a fine establishment to work for? Is it not enough that I give you such an incredible wages in such a faint economy? Is it not enough that I create a nice and healthy environment for you to come into everyday? Is it not enough that I gave you this break room with the finest expresso machines, with a nice HD Television, with a bookcase full of a wide variety of reading material, with enough room for everyone? Is it not enough that I treat you all with respect and not just that but to go above and beyond to make sure that your career with me is made for custom fit to work around your own needs?...
The group was silent as they stared in fear into Armand's fiery eyes. He looked from person to person, not sure exactly what he was expecting them to say but was too furious to stop his outrage.
Armand De La Fontaine
I like to think that “The Masters and Margaritas” is a family and that I do my best to make it a fucking family but it seems as of recent all I am getting from my family is a knife in the back! Jorge here...
Armand pointed to the man still lying on the floor, watching everyone's eyes shift to him once again.
Armand De La Fontaine
Thought it would be wise to betray his family and start betting for another team! Now...
Armand walked over to Jorge and as he approached, the people surrounding the young man instantly started separating until Armand was standing right next to him. The club-owner put his foot on the boy's head, pushing down with a light bit of pressure, but enough to cause Jorge to squirm slightly. Armand bent down and, while still addressing the group as a whole, directed his comments to the traitor specifically.
Armand De La Fontaine
I understand playing for the side that pays more. I understand playing for the side that has more resources. That is all business, nothing personal. But, what really hurts me is the fact that you made a choice upon a thought of anticipation. You saw someone, a small insignificant bug, who wanted to rise above and over take my operations and the thought that went through your mind was that I was going to lose. You didn't have faith in me!
Armand's face turned red with rage as his voice slowly built to a violent shouting. In turn, his foot pressed even harder on the young man's skull until it was visually apparent that Armand was pressing down with a significant amount of force that caused Jorge to helplessly claw out to any imaginary help he could get.
Armand De La Fontaine
After all I have done for you! After everything I have given you! You choose to fuck me! You choose to take everything I have taught you and use it against me like I would never find out! You ungrateful little fuck!
Armand looked up to the rest of the staff who had unconsciously moved closer but jumped back instantaneously when they found Armand's eyes on them. Preecha started moving through the people until he was at the front, watching the owner assert his dominance. In his anger, Armand's usually tediously slicked back hair had started falling out of place and a few strains now hung in his face as his eyes jerked around in a predatorial manner.
Armand De La Fountaine
What should I do with him?! What should I do with the little Judas, the little Benedict Arnold?!
Preecha stepped in and pushed Armand of Jorge and picked him up off the ground. After steadying him, The fighter looked him in the eyes. He raised his eyebrows, pointed at Jorge followed by putting up his fists then spreading his fingers toward each other. Armand rolled his eyes with a snarl as Jorge stared blankly.
Jorge
I...I...don't...
Armand De La Fontaine
He is asking you if you are scared!
Jorge nodded hesitantly. Preecha wrapped his arm around the kid's neck and led him over to a chair that was next to where the staff was playing cards and set him down. He walked over to the overturned table and set it back up and collected the cards sprawled all over the floor. Armand raised an eye brow and approached the table as Preecha shuffled the cards back together and took a seat across from Jorge.
Armand De La Fontiane
Hey...hey!
Armand waved his hand inside the view of Preecha to get his attention. The fighter looked up with an ironically attentive expression towards Armand's concern.
Armand De La Fontaine
What the hell are you planning exactly?
Preecha's response was a smirk as he continued to shuffle the cards. Armand smirked back as he began to understand Preecha's plan and then decided to take a seat at the side while switching his gaze to the turncoat.
Armand De La Fontaine
Okay Jorge, here is the game...You both are going to play a hand. The stakes are what happens to you. You win, you get to walk away and do as you please. But! If you lose...
Armand turned back to Preecha who kept his eyes on the deck he had over-shuffled at this point waiting for Armand to finish explaining the rules. Then almost in unison, they both looked to Jorge with that same devilish smirk.
Armand De La Fontaine
We break your legs.
The hands of the former employee began to shake as Preecha dealt out the cards, two to the Latino and two to himself then laid out five cards faced down.
Armand De La Fontaine
Looks like you'll be playing Texas Hold 'em. I always preferred that to five card stud; you have less of an ability to change your luck, the game really comes in with the betting and bluffing. Though, the difficulty is you can't fold or we fold your bones. But, just so the game isn't without its flavor, I think we both have things to lay on the table. Sooo...Let me make the first bet.
Armand rubbed his chin as he pondered for a moment what to lay on the line. Jorge checked his two cards and then looked over to Preecha as his face failed to ease any. Preecha was looking over at Armand, almost appearing to be irritated with how long the club-owner was taking to make his wage.
Armand De La Fontaine
Hm, the problem appears to be that being that we have the advantage, there is nothing I care to offer...How about this: If you win this hand, we will even let you keep your old job, of course you would be watched night and day without knowing who or where but I think that is a fair first raise. Now! The question you should ask yourself is if you call or raise and how you are to do either.
Jorge stared blankly as he obviously couldn't come up with anything that he felt would satisfy his possible ex-employer.
Jorge
I don't know what to bet in return.
Armand De La Fontaine
Oh come on, Jorge! You are a smart boy! I know you! You can think of something! Use that head of yours because so far your poker face is far from encouraging.
Jorge thought for a moment as Armand proceeded to tap his fingers in a broken rhythm, matching the song that could faintly be heard through the walls.
Jorge
I can tell you who I work for...
Armand shook his head in disappointment.
Armand De La Fontaine
I don't care who you work for, Jorge. That information couldn't possibly mean less to me. How about this. Since I offered you your job back if you win, if you lose...how about we also break your fingers. I think that is nice and equal.
Jorge unconsciously grasped one hand with the other as if a phantom pain had sprouted up in anticipation. The crowd surrounding the game had slowly moved closer as they were all immersed into the tension of whether or not Jorge could be so lucky as to win his life back as nothing ever happened.
Armand De La Fontaine
In fact, I think I am being rather generous considering broken bones can heal just fine. Preecha, himself, has suffered many broken bones in his time and he is still one of the best fighters I have ever managed. So! It's a call!
Armand nodded to Preecha who flipped over the first three cards. The first was a five of diamonds, then a seven of clubs and followed by a ten of diamonds. Jorge checked his cards and stared at them for what seemed an eternity where Preecha didn't even bother to lift the corner of his own. He merely continued to watch Jorge as the young man's face didn't seem to improve in the slightest. The other employees simmered with chatter that only lasted seconds before Armand asked his question.
Armand De La Fontaine
What will it be Jorge? Do you check or raise.
Jorge placed his cards down but did not move his gaze and proceeded to rap his knuckle twice on the table. Armand laughed wickedly and patted the poor kid on the shoulder.
Armand De La Fontaine
Luck is a bitch, isn't it? No worries, there is still a leg or two left to this hand, you still have a chance!...As for our wager...I'll go light and say if you win, I'll give you this nightclub...In exchange, how about you wager all your worldly possessions. Got a car? It'll be mine. Got a house? It'll be mine. Got anything worth anything? It will now be under the ownership of Armand Enterprises. Considering how much this club is worth, I think that is the only way you could match it...
The crowd held their breath and Jorge remained in his silent manner as Preecha flipped the next card over, revealing a five. A violent jolt ran through Jorge, the young man seemed moments away from spontaneously crumbling to dust.
Armand De La Fontaine
Jorge, there is only one lesson that I want you to learn from this moment right now. I don't know the cards Preecha holds, yet I am willing to make these bets without a second thought. You know why? Because I am willing to lay it on the line for my people. Unlike you, I don't shake, I don't falter, I stick to the people I invest in. I don't get scared because someone comes up with a plan to possibly take me down. I knuckle down, grit my fucking teeth and take the fucking leap! That is why we are doing this right now, because you need to stick to the cards you have been dealt and learn to take the risk and be confident in the path you have chosen. So, I have to ask, do you feel good about the direction you have chosen now?
Armand slapped Jorge across the face as he saw the young man still frozen in fear.
Armand De La Fontaine
C'mon! Wake up! How about this for a wager...
Armand dug into his pocket and pulled out a few bills and coins which he dropped onto the table.
Armand De La Fontaine
That adds up to seven dollars and thirty eight cents and I already know what I want in exchange which will worth exactly the same. Your dignity...
Jorge took an empty and dry swallow as he looked up at Armand, this time with a stern and straight glare as Armand continued to insult him.
Armand De La Fontaine
If we win, we will make sure everyone will know you were a coward. They will know that you turned on your family because you got scared. Honestly, we will only be telling the truth so I don't think it is unfair...
Jorge
No!...
The surrounding bystanders were shocked by the sudden reply from Jorge and that it was delivered with any force at all. The defiant rogue's mouth twitched as the color still remained drained from his face but his eyes burned with an impressive flame.
Jorge
I am not a coward! If there was anything or anyone I was scared of, it was you. I went out on a risk knowing full well that if I was caught, there was a good chance I wasn't going to make it out alive. Now, I might be scared still but it is because my body knows there is a chance. The shaking is not the fear growing. It is the last shred of hope trying to survive. So, I will put it like this: If I lose, it is not my dignity I will lose. I am not going to try to get away with as much as possible if this hand ends up being an unlucky draw. If I lose, I rather be dead than live known as a coward. So, my wager is my life.
Armand appeared to be amused by the sudden revelation coming from his former employee. He rubbed his chin and looked back at Preecha who stared back blankly.
Armand De La Fontaine
What a helluva poker face...
Armand turned back around and slapped Jorge on the knee.
Armand De La Fontaine
Alright! I'll tell you what I will do. I'll be fair. I'll do the only thing that is equal in my view. Life for a life. If you are brave enough to do it, then so am I. If I win, you are six feet deep and if you win, I will go to the grave without any objections. That seems fair to me. Okay Preecha, let's have it...
Instead of flipping over the card though, Preecha tapped Armand on the shoulder. Armand turned back to see what was the deal and saw that the fighter was pointing over to the entrance of the break room. The club-owner spun around to see Trinity Hayashi standing in the doorway with a bewildered yet scrutinizing glare going around before landing on Armand himself. She wore her usual business attire, tight great skirt and all. And this time instead of just Armand and Preecha gawking, it was the entire staff.
Trinity Hayashi
What exactly is going on here?...
Armand stood to his feet automatically and approached the attractive, yet clean slated woman from Standards and Practices. He smiled as if caught in mist of a celebration and all the onlookers quickly broke away and nonchalantly went on with their own thing, not wanting to give any weight to any trouble.
Armand De La Fontaine
Ah! Ms. Hayashi! What brings you here?! You caught us in the middle of a friendly little game.
Trinity looked him up and down with suspicion, making sure to keep a little distance between the two of them.
Trinity Hayashi
Following up with my look into your company. Why does it appear that the man at the table is battered and bruised?!
Armand De La Fontaine
Just a little incident in the club. A few assholes came in thinking they owned the place and trying to be a hero, my little friend here tried to toss them out himself. The risks of choosing employment with a nightclub, I assure you. Though, I must ask you. I recently had a little internet fiasco with a co-worker of yours, a Mr. Jonah Worth. Are you familiar with him? Is he a part of your crew?
Trinity Hayashi
I am afraid not. I think he is someone #BeachKrew personally brought in but I don't know for sure. Sometimes wires get crossed and we find ourselves with a redundant situation.
Armand De La Fontaine
Well, I do hope that this will not cause you to be pulled out of WCF by any means and deprive us of your professional presence?
Trinity Hayashi
Ummm...yeah. I'm not worried about it, but if we could get back on topic...
Suddenly, seeing that Armand was floundering with the S&P representative, Preecha stood up from the table and approached the two, greeting Ms. Hayashi with touching his chin with the tips of his fingers, bringing the backside down to the palm of his other hand and then holding the first hand up, palm facing outward, and touching the elbow with the tips of the fingers of his other hand. Ms. Hayashi returned the gesture and followed up with putting her knuckles back to back and turning her hands upwards then pointed to Preecha who replied with holding his left hand up, palm facing to the right, his fingers spread, and then moved it forward slightly before repeating her gesture and seeing her reply in the same way.
Armand De La Fontaine
Wait. You learned sign language? In the span of a week?!
Trinity Hayashi
Well, Mr. Fontaine, I take great care to make sure I can communicate with the people I work with. I felt that it was important to learn Sign Language if I was going to continue to speak with Mr. Kamon.
Armand glanced at Preecha who was smirking in a rather uncharacteristically up-beat manner. Armand caught wind to what the fighter was thinking and pressed his knuckle into his employee's ribs.
Armand De La Fontaine
How about you head back to work, Preecha ol' pal. Make sure no one is tearing up my club out there...
Preecha snorted at Armand before turning to Trinity and giving a slight nod and then walked out of the break room.
Armand De La Fontaine
Sooo...Everything looking good here? Am I in the green? I am sure you saw our debut on slam last week. Made quite an impact if I do say so myself.
Trinity sighed as she adjusted her glasses.
Trinity Hayashi
I will say I was somewhat surprised at your lack of vulgarity, considering our first encounter. I imagine there will be obstacles down the line but here's to hoping that this trend keeps up. Though, I have to say your presence on twitter has been a little more worrisome...
Armand De La Fontaine
What are you going to do? Bunch of cocksuckers like #Beachkrew ruining good competition.
Trinity Hayashi
Mr. Fontaine!
Armand De La Fontaine
What?! I mean, nothing wrong with that. If they like sucking cock, there isn't nothing wrong with that. I am just saying they were too busy with each others' cock in their mouth that they couldn't properly read what I was saying and so it got ugly. I'm not homophobic. Just saying. Ain't nothing about being gay. Someone likes to suck cock, their a cocksucker. Like, I bet your a cocksucker. I don't mean anything by it. Just saying what's true...
Ms. Hayashi's face went red as her fingernails dug into her palm while she tried to resist the urge to rip at Armand's face. But, even with her great effort to stay professional, some rage managed to escape out.
Trinity Hayashi
I can't stand you! I have a feeling that the further you get on in life, the more alone you will be until there is no one left! And it will be one day as your are struggling by, exhausted and hurting, when you can feel your heart about to beat out of your chest that you will reach out for someone to be there because it will be that moment that you will need someone the most, to know you won't die alone. To only find your hands empty with no one to hold them as you finally collapse! And I hate to say such terrible things but I will not feel sorry for you in the slightest!...Just saying what's true!...
There was a moment of silence between the two as Armand stared amazed at the furious women in front of him. Trinity's face ever so slowly drained of its redness and returned back to its natural shade, feeling only the slightest bit embarrassed by her outburst.
Armand De La Fontaine
...You have no idea how hot that was...
Trinity Hayashi
Of course! You sick little man! My office will keep in touch with you!
Trinity stormed her way out of the club. With a big shit eating grin, the club-owner turned around to Jorge who he had totally forgotten about and who had remained sitting there, not knowing what to do with himself. Armand approached the young man and patted him on the back.
Armand De La Fontaine
How about we call it a draw...and as compromise, instead of killing you or breaking your bones, I give you five days to pack your things and get out of the state. But I mean you get the fuck out. Okay?
Jorge nodded, stood up and hurried out of the room, happy enough to comply with the circumstance. Curious, Armand looked to the table where the cards still were. He grabbed the last card and flipped it over to reveal a nine of spades. He then flipped over Preecha's cards which were a five of hearts and a seven of spades; giving him a full house. Armand walked over to the other side and picked up Jorge's cards.
Armand De La Fontaine
Haha! Texas Hold 'em...What an amazing game!
Jorge's cards were an eight of clubs and a Jack of diamonds. Giving him a straight.
The next morning, Armand was sitting in his office with his feet kicked up onto his desk and newspaper in hand. He was enjoying the quiet hour as he heard no irritatingly bassy club music, had nobody to chase down, and there was no particularly urgent business to be taking care of. So, he figured it would be nice to catch up on the news and let time slip by for a little bit. He was in the middle of reading an article about astronomers watching a black hole tear a star apart when he heard his office door open. Armand peeked over his news paper to see Preecha poking his head in. His hair dripped wet and a towel hung over his bare neck. Armand folded up the newspaper and swung his legs off the desk.
Armand De La Fontaine
Taking a break from training? Honestly I don't know why you are working so hard. This match seems like a dud to me.
Preecha took a seat in front of the desk. He raised his hand and formed a three with his thumb high over his pinky followed by his fingertips pressed against his palm and his thumb up, then lifted his index finger with his thumb over his middle one, ending with retracting his index finger and putting his thumb over all four fingernails.
Armand De La Fontaine
Indeed. But, honestly I wouldn't put my money on any of your opponents. Well, except Patrilli, he is a part of the family now...
Suddenly, the intercom on Armand's desk buzzed. His secretary Mara Dietz could be heard on the other end of the lo fi speaker.
Mara Dietz
Mr. De La Fontaine, a Mr Hank Brown is here to see you.
Armand grimaced as if having forgotten that the event was to take place and took a moment a moment to silently curse himself before pressing down on the intercom.
Armand De La Fontaine
Send him in.
After lifting off the intercom button, Armand leaned back and interlocked his fingers onto his stomach, anxiously making small rocking movements in his chat. Preecha raised an eyebrow.
Armand De La Fontaine
Hank Brown is coming in for an interview. Thought it would be good to get a word or two out and at the same time advertise the club. Totally blanked out about it...Might want to position yourself better. That is going to be Hank's seat.
Preecha shrugged as he stood up and leaned against the desk. A second later, Hank Brown entered with a camera man. Armand waved for him to take a seat which Mr. Brown gratefully accepted as the camera man began setting up next to him.
Armand De La Fontaine
Hello there Mr. Brown, so glad you could join us today! Hope it wasn't too much trouble to come down to Austin, Texas. Sometimes it just gets too busy to leave the office until the night before.
Hank Brown
No trouble at all!
Hank held out his hand and was received with a shake from Armand and then held his hand out to Preecha as well but the boxer just stared uninterested at the interviewer. Hank awkwardly retracted his hand and returned to his seat.
Armand De La Fontaine
Don't mind him. Consider it a little bit of a grudge...since you know.
Armand tapped the edge of his ear. The camera man gave Hank the thumbs up.
Hank Brown
Okay! Mister Fontaine...
Armand De La Fontaine
Mr DE LA Fontaine.
Hank Brown
alright...Mr. De La Fontaine, this weekend at Hellimination! Your clients Mr. Preecha Kamon and Mr. Patrilli are both competing in a Battle Royal for a number one contendership for the World Heavyweight Championship to be utilized before One! This will be Preecha's second match and his first Pay-Per-View match and with so many people, new, old, talented, extreme, etcetera, going after such a monumental prize, what do you feel his chances are of winning?
Armand leaned forward, placing his elbows on the desk and formed a finger pyramid as he chuckled to himself.
Armand De La Fontaine
I said it after his debut match and I will stick with it. Preecha Kamon and I are here to dominate. Now, people use this word constantly but unlike them, I know specifically what I mean by it. We are here to cut through the WCF like a hot knife through butter. We aren't going to let ourselves worry about who or what is in our way. They are all obstacles just the same and we plan on dealing with them in the same way we deal with all other obstacles. We are not going to sweat veterans thinking we're too cocky or other new guys trying (and failing) to be as hungry as us. We are not going to let ourselves be consumed by all the pageantries and due paying that people seemed so fixed on in this business. If they want us to pay dues, then they are welcomed enough to come down the ring at any point and try to teach us a most valuable lesson. But until then, I think we will just keep on with the way we are going.
People might not think it matters at all but Preecha has had a long and decorated career before his current run with the WCF and even though I can't exactly say they are sanctioned decorations to his competitive career, he achieved them none-the-less. Though I don't think it would be appropriate to brag about them anyways. You are only as good as your last fight...And Preecha brutalized in the five way bout last week. The only reason we didn't walk away with the win is because we didn't want it. We felt insulted and refused to take such an easy victory that would ultimately be forgotten about. Instead, we chose to use our time wisely and decided to leave an impact instead by having my two clients manhandle the others, to set an example for the rest of the company! We made it clear that we take what we want and we are open to any challenges.
I brought Preecha here for one reason and that is because when I look at him, I see a gift, a talent that goes beyond any standards that the world has known and it is time he was recognized for what he is! Now, that is not to play down Patrilli at all. With them both in the match, they will be working together to narrow down the numbers for sure. But, Patrilli can speak for himself. As for Preecha's actual chances of winning: I personally think he has the best shot. Our only real competition sadly is a pig farmer. So instantly, you see the gap there. The most seasoned members, Doc Henry and Adam Young are just terrible; obvious fluff so this match seems much bigger than it really is. Guys like them flood Austin, Texas; like cowboy boots are going out of style. In fact, you could almost consider it that Preecha has been training for this for the last few years with how many of these fakes he has thrown out of my club. These are hardly the guys who are going to teach us to respect WCF history. If anything, they convince me this match is just one big farce meant to pad the hype of Wade going into One as World Champ. And if it wasn't for a select few within the match up, I would refuse Preecha's participation in the event! But, Preecha seems to think there are names here that would at least put up a decent fight. Though no names besides Preecha's that should be considered worthy for a title shot.
People like Lance Savage would in fact probably be at the bottom of my list. I still want to knock this guy's teeth out myself. That is how much I can't stand the fact that management even thinks this man deserves a chance for a match for the top belt in the company, let alone deserve to be in the same ring as Preecha. This guy is not competition, he is not even a worthy human being. He is a caricature of a sack of shit and I bet you won't be seeing his face again after this match up when Preecha knocks his head in again. I'd be willing to stake my nightclubs on it. By the way! Anyone in Austin, Texas looking for a good time needn't look any further than “The Masters and Margaritas”, the classiest nightclub in the city with excellent service and amazing music!
Hank and the camera man traded glances and shrugs, as they brushed off the blatant shameless plug and continued rolling with the interview. Preecha himself looked almost as if he was going to fall asleep right there, bored out of his mind with having to stand there like a prop in something he couldn't care less about.
Hank Brown
Now, you say there are opponents that Preecha do find of significant value. Care to go into details which wrestlers those would be?
Armand De La Fontaine
Well, it is only significant value if you grade on a bell curve, to be honest. When you take such low talents such as Bad News Benson and Kenny Drake who don't seem to even worry my boy over here, people like Legion and...I can't believe I am about to say this, lord-forgive-me...Dustin Beaver tend to stick out. I would throw Vengeance in there but this guy seems to fail to leave an impression on anyone. When I ask around about him, people give me this blank stare and sometimes I even get the response of “Oh! He still works in WCF?!” So, no, I am not worried about this former Hardcore and Internet champion. The only time he could achieve anything is on a slow week when someone is dumb enough to fall for his melodramatic mysticism and creeper molester tactics of intimidation. And this is the honest to god truth, there is never a slow week with Preecha. He doesn't give a shit what your speed is. He comes out on all cylinders. That is the kind of standard he holds himself to. A-game one hundred percent of the time or he has failed himself. Vengeance is not a one hundred percent guy. He is a lukewarm card filler.
But again, just because Legion and Beaver stick out, doesn't mean they are a threat. Legion though, He is looking for competition worth having. This pig farmer is tired of torturing poor defenseless animals and Adam Young-s and has decided he is ready for bigger match ups. He wanted to be a part of this match for the mere fact that he could cause some mass destruction but I think he is in for a fair surprise because he will be plowing through the competition until he meets with the other end where my client will be standing. Legion is a tall mother fucker and he's got some weight too but people are too quick to give that shit the win. If that is all that it took then Joseph Vacher should have easily taken out everyone in Preecha's match up last week. But, that is the great thing about combat. Despite what people think, it takes a bit of smarts to hold onto any sort of consistency and that is where Preecha shines. He might seem deaf, quiet, and dumb but inside that head is a mind that is turning every hour of the day. His brain is an organic copy of Sun Tzu's “Art of War”. And the real detail that takes this man from greatness to a masterpieces is the fact that not only is his mind sharp but his body matches in durability. I saw this fucker destroy countless banana trees with his bare legs and fists. If you somehow manage to land a punch, he can take it.
So, Legion maybe be big and hell, he may have a good load of fight in him but my guy's life was shaped around taking out these shit-reeking Goliath-s. And with that said, if I don't consider the biggest man in this competition a threat then I sure as shit don't consider Dustin Beaver a threat. You see it all the time. Celebrities get bored with their calm and quiet lives being protected that they get the urge for something else. Something a bit more out of their league. Well, in a place like WCF which seems to filled with more cartoon characters than actual fighters, he is able to get away with thinking he can compete. But, what usually happens is these wannabes come across a real fighter and get their heads kicked in and go crawling back to their nice and safe little worlds with their eyes now wide open.
Now, maybe it is too late for Dustin. I have a feeling that if Preecha does any damage up in the attic there, that this dude will just get more confused and continue thinking he is some kind of fighter. So, Preecha has personally told me that he aims to end it the best way possible by simply hospitalizing Mr. Beaver. It is for his own good really. He really shouldn't be putting himself in such dangerous situations like this Disruptor Battle Royal. There is a reason an actor acts, a writer writes, a pop star sing and Preecha fights. We all have own little niche and that is where we belong. I doubt Mr. Beaver would have the urge to step into my business and I don't exactly mean the business of owning a nightclub. It is simply not the place for him. Danger isn't cool, it isn't fun. Sometimes I wish I could be bored instead of preparing myself for whoever might be coming after me. But that is not the point right now.
Dustin Beaver isn't without merit. He seemed to be having some success, most recently with those #Beachkrew shit baggers. The one thing he needs to know in this match is that there are a good amount of people taking part and not nearly as many are going to be watching his back. So, I don't particularly think he will be having such an easy time this week being carried to a win.
Overall I look at this match and I can only see it as a ploy. Either Seth isn't expecting Preecha to be as good as the hype makes out or he is looking to sky rocket someone because he really doesn't want to see #Beachkrew take over the main event entirely like it appears close to being. Not that it matters to us. We are not here to save Seth and we are not here to hype Wade. So, as I see it, if Preecha wins the Battle Royal (which he will do!) he will be facing and beating Wade for the World Heavyweight title, causing one of the biggest upsets this company has ever seen. Proving the fact that we only came here to dominate! I stand behind my client one hundred percent and would be willing to put it all on the line because here at “The Masters and Margaritas” (the hottest spot in Austin, Texas!) we are a family and I will always back family no matter what because my family has yet to disappoint me.
And that is where I will have to give myself a little bit of credit. I run a tight fucking ship! I don't do something unless I am sure about it. I go into something educated and prepared. Whether it is this fine establishment or whether it is competition, my philosophy is the same. Anything Preecha doesn't think about, I am there to fill in the gaps and make sure we are water tight. I'm not going to be one of those managers that need to hedge my bets and have a thousand different clients to make sure I run the luck of having one winner. I take my time and scout out the perfect choice and make sure the only choice I make is the right one.
Hank Brown
That is all fine and well, Mr De La Fontaine but you have yet to address the weapons that will be available in the match.
Armand De La Fontaine
What about them? They don't change a damn thing. It is not about what you have but how you use it. The one difference I imagine will be that Preecha will work out a little more aggression and the only problem I imagine I will be facing there is that trouble makers will have it easy in my club for the next week...but I am sure I will manage a way. But yeah, there is nothing in this match we haven't taken into consideration. We have considered the stakes, the competition, the stipulation and the grand stage it is all presented on. We don't go in swinging wildly. All we need is one good strike (in this case maybe eight or nine) and it will be over before you know it. Proficiency is our business model down here in “The Masters and Margaritas” (Now with Ladies night where the ladies drink free!)...
Hank Brown
Well, thank you for your time, Mr. De La Fontaine. And best of luck to you and your clients Mr. Kamon and Mr. Patrilli
Armand De La Fontaine
The pleasure is all mine! We might be new here but I have a good feeling about our stay in WCF. Make sure the bartender hooks you up before you go and make sure to tell your friends that if they are ever in Austin, Texas to come down to “The Masters and Margaritas”!
Hank Brown
Ooooo...kay...
Hank Brown shook Armand's hand while trying to ignore the horrible plugging by the club-owner. Hank thought for a moment of going for a handshake again with Preecha, he was met with a pair of hostile eyes and thought better of it. Him and the camera man exited the office swiftly before Armand turned to Preecha with a celebratory smile as if the match had already been won.
Armand De La Fontaine
I think that went rather well!
Preecha snorted and made his way out of the office.
Armand De La Fontaine
Going back to training? Ya'know you are going to train yourself into an early grave like Bruce Lee...unless you believe the chinese mafia killed him...And why am I even talking, you can't hear me, you deaf fuck...
Armand swung his legs once again back onto the desk as he looked up to the ceiling, pondering to himself.
Armand De La Fontaine
Why did Wade's comments bother him so much anyways? It's just Muay Thai, all it is is style.
...To be continued...
