Post by EWC on Dec 19, 2021 15:28:38 GMT -6
Translated into a very rough Portuguese, the crudely-written sign suggests a special event taking place beginning at 3:30 p.m., though it’s not hard to see what’s going on, as the sign is the front to an exhibit bearing the King’s Court Wrestling School branding.
The venue has an increased security detail at its perimeter, providing a safer environment for the next generation of potential wrestling superstars. From the confines of a pop-up tent, the duo of Ace King and John Martin, head trainer at King’s Court, watch the action unfold, while also keeping an eye on the WrestleFest feed on a TV in the tent.
Ace King: Wonder how Izzy’s going to do tonight. She’s up next.
John Martin: Oh yes, that’s right. How’s that going? Haven’t heard much on that front lately.
Ace King: It’s a busy time for all of us with travel and competition mixed in, so business can come when it’s appropriate, and I’m sure she’d like to take care of some of her own-
As he speaks, Ace feels his phone vibrating in his pocket; he pulls it out and sees the name ‘Judith Carr’ on the screen, requesting FaceTime.
Ace King: Hey, I’ve gotta take this.
John Martin: You take your time.
With an appreciative nod, Ace goes off into another corner of the tent and hits the green button to answer, with his mother’s face now filling the screen.
Ace King: Hi, Mom.
Judith Carr: Oh, Eric, I hope I’m not interrupting anything.
Ace King: No, not at all. How’s Dad?
The question is born of a nervous tone from the Undisputed Champion, and Judith looks around before turning her attention back to the call.
Judith Carr: He’s pulling through. The stroke obviously took a lot out of him, and he’s still being monitored routinely, but he’s doing better… Would you like to talk to him for a minute?
Ace King: Yes, of course.
The words couldn’t have come out of his mouth any faster as Judith hands her phone to his father, Edward; Ace sees the phone still shaking in his weaker arm, but he’s encouraged by his father’s expression on the other end.
Edward Carr: You doing alright down there, boy?
Ace King: Yeah, it’s been busy and I’m still a bit sore from last night, but it could be worse. What about on your end?
Edward Carr: Well, I’m still on this side of the ground for now, so I can’t complain.
Edward wears a pained expression on his face as he coughs after talking, though for Ace, it’s a relief to see even this much given the state he was in the last time he visited face-to-face.
Ace King: I always knew Mom was tough for putting up with you, but you’re not far off from being a two-dollar steak yourself, you know? I guess I was raised right… and in hindsight, it feels like something I should have been more aware of, so thank you both for that.
There’s a sense of self-awareness to Ace’s words, though his father just smiles back at him, using whatever strength he can muster from his hospital bed as he looks into the phone.
Ace King: Anyway, I’ve gotta get going now, but I’ll talk to you when I’m back in America… and Dad? I’m bringing the gold back home to you.
Edward Carr: Go get ‘em, Eric.
An emotional Ace hangs up as he works his way to his production perch, beaming with pride as his students keep fighting for all to see.