Post by Marcus Welsh on Jan 8, 2020 19:54:00 GMT -5
Current Day
The sky is overcast, with thick clouds covering all. For wintertime, though, it’s not a terrible day. The rain and snow have held off so far, which is always a blessing, and the wind has actually kept itself relatively calm. All-in-all, it’s a perfect day for Vincent “The Legend” Langston as he parks his truck at the gate.
Langston gets out, slamming the door behind him, and goes to the tailgate. He opens it, pulling out a duffel bag from the back. He wraps it around his shoulder, turns, and heads to the gate, stepping through. There’s a flash of light.
The Past
Vincent makes his way back to the company tent, his latest ‘survey’ of the enemy complete. He has his semi-automatic pistol strapped to his side, having returned his heavier ordinance to the supply line. As Vincent goes inside, he stops short at the sight sitting in front of him.
Vincent Langston – I don’t fucking believe it.
Laughter answers his exclamation. He walks in, seeing the Christmas tree that has somehow been assembled inside the tent. Two men nearby walk over, handing him a beer.
Jeffrey Simmons – Enjoy, Vincent! We got ourselves our very own Christmas holiday today!
Vincent Langston – Who the hell sent us a tree?
Arturo Meeks – Peterson was able to get it for us, and some presents, too. The guy is a master at what he does, isn’t he?
Vincent looks over at Nathan Peterson. He’s sitting at a side table, where a festive holiday poker game is underway. Peterson tips his bottle at Vincent with a smirk, and Vincent returns it. They head over to the Christmas tree, with Vincent studying it.
Vincent Langston – I wasn’t expecting to see one of these again for years.
Jeffrey Simmons – Well, ‘tis the season, isn’t it? Merry Christmas, Private.
Vincent Langston – Merry Christmas.
Vincent, a rare smile on his lips, walks over to join Peterson, Rodriguez, and the rest. In Afghanistan, you take any enjoyment you can get.
Current Day
Langston makes his way up the path, knowing this trip by heart. He’s made it many times over the years, always arranging to be here when the holidays come around. It’s a tradition, but it’s also a compulsion. He would never miss it.
The Past
Vincent is seated at the table now, having been dealt into the game. He can’t help but stare at Kevin Fitzpatrick, who’s apparently found a homemade cap to wear for the festivities. Fitzpatrick returns his stare with a smile.
Kevin Fitzpatrick – What’s wrong, Langston? Never seen a Santa hat before?
Vincent Langston – Is that what that’s supposed to be? It looks more like Where’s Waldo mixed with a dash of moldy bread thrown in.
Kevin Fitzpatrick – Hey, now, the lady I bought this from said it was 100% American made.
Fitzpatrick says this with a laugh, knowing that the lady had been lying. But he was more than willing to help out some of the poorer people here in the country, even if he overspends on cheap goods. Vincent’s always respected that about him.
Vincent Langston – Well, if you’re Santa, than I’m expecting my gift any minute now. I’ll call.
Vincent throws his chips into the pot, looking very confident. Rodriguez and Peterson quickly fold, not wanting to stay in. Fitzpatrick continues to smile, glad that Vincent stayed in. He drops his cards.
Kevin Fitzpatrick – Full house, Jacks over Threes.
Vincent looks at the hand, shaking his head. Then he drops his own down, showing the four 8’s in his hand.
Vincent Langston – Four of a kind. Thank you, Santa!
Vincent pulls over the chips, as Fitzpatrick looks on, a little disappointed at having a strong hand fail him. But there’s still comradery between them, so there’s no resentment. He knows that whatever happens here at the table, Vincent will still have his back.
Nathan Peterson – Alright, guys, let’s get a new hand going. It’s time for me to start bringing Lady Luck to the table!
Vincent Langston – Yeah, Peterson, we’ll see if your luck holds out or not. Deal the cards.
Vincent nods to Peterson, who grins and grabs the deck. The cards start to fly, as the Christmas game continues.
Current Day
Langston walks through the cemetery, checking out all the gravestones as he makes his way through. There are always new ones, and although the odds are low that he’ll recognize any names, he still reviews them along the way. He passes by an older couple, who nod respectfully to him. The woman is fighting off tears, showing that there’s a strong likelihood that they’re here to visit a son or daughter who served their country. Langston shows them complete respect, leaving them to their grief.
Langston finally reaches his destination, pausing to look over the graves that are listed here. He knew there was one new addition. However, as he searches the graves, he realizes that, in actuality… there are two. He takes a knee in front of the newest gravestone, sighing and lowering his head.
The Past
It’s later on in the night. Fitzpatrick has long since gone All In, getting called and seeing his chips disappear. Commander Sinclair was out soon after, betting too strongly on a bluff that was called. Peterson, surprisingly, got taken out by a straight flush, ending the gambler’s night early. That’s left it down to Vincent and Rodriguez, with everyone else watching. Langston is a little behind in the count at the moment, having some bad hands dealt his way. But he finally feels like now’s his opportunity.
Vincent Langston – I bet 5,000.
Langston throws half his chips into the pot, as he stares at the two Aces sitting in his hand. The table shows another Ace sitting there, having landed during the flop along with a Six and Eight of hearts. Rodriguez studies his hand for a moment, thinking it over.
Vincent Langston – Don’t take too long, Juan. I have kitchen duty in the morning, and I want to be sure I have time to store away all of your money before then.
Juan Rodriguez – Whatever you say, Vince. I raise you… everything you’ve got.
Rodriguez puts the required amount in, a good chunk of his own money. The guys around the group react, feeling the intensity. After just a moment, Vincent shrugs and pushes all his money in, causing some applause. The two men show their cards… Vincent’s two Aces against Juan’s Seven and Nine of hearts.
Vincent Langston – Whew. You’re a risk taker, aren’t you? Not exactly a sure thing there.
Juan Rodriguez – I have faith, my brother. I have faith.
Corporal Sinclair, who has taken over the dealing duties since his departure from the guy, reaches for the deck. Vincent watches as he flips out the turn card, a King of Spades. Vincent’s smirk gets bigger, but Rodriguez doesn’t seem concerned. A second later, his faith is justified, as the river card turns out to be a Ten of Hearts. The crowd gasps, excited at what just went down. Vincent sits back in his chair, stunned, as Rodriguez pulls the chips over to him.
Juan Rodriguez – Sometimes faith is enough, Vince.
Vincent Langston – And sometimes you’re lucky as shit.
Rodriguez laughs, and Vincent joins in along with everyone else. This is how comrades-in-arms act. They don’t fight amongst themselves, they just get the job done and work as a unit. At least, most of them do.
Current Day
The camera is now behind Langston now, as he studies the gravestones sitting in front of him.
Vincent Langston – Kevin Fitzpatrick.
The image runs through, showing Fitzpatrick’s face as he realizes his Full House has failed him.
Vincent Langston – Arturo Meeks.
We see Meeks drinking a beer, looking like he’s having a great time.
Vincent Langston – Commander Darrell Sinclair.
The commander is shown, dealing out the cards on that last fateful hand.
Vincent Langston – I’ve been visiting you guys for years now, haven’t I? It doesn’t feel that long ago. But here we sit, once again. I made sure to bring it again, just like always.
Langston reaches into his duffel bag, pulling out an old, faded Christmas tree. While it’s artificial, the tree has still been through a lot over the years. A lot of pieces have fallen off. But you can still recognize it as the tree from that fateful Christmas overseas.
Vincent Langston – You know, that was one of my last happy memories from being in the service. That poker game. It wasn’t that long after that Peterson came up with his scheme to steal from a prince and take all of his gold. And then… everything went wrong.
The Past
Vincent is seen running, trying to make it back in time, hearing the battle that’s taking place where he left his comrades. He comes around the corner, taking out the combatants near him. But he’s too late. He views the devastation, going in and rescuing two men from the carnage: Jeffrey Sinclair, whose arm is badly damaged, and Juan Rodriguez. He carries the two out, in spite of the danger to himself, trying to make up for not being there on patrol while they were securing the area. Instead, he was off with Peterson, following the group’s plan to help with the gold. Peterson was nowhere to be seen.
Current Day
Langston looks over to his side at one of the newest additions to the group, having had all of these plots set aside for his unit. The tombstone has been professionally carved, showing that some money went behind getting it placed here.
Vincent Langston – And you, Nathan. I gotta admit, I didn’t expect you to get buried here. After all, you died in Paris. I figured they’d keep your worthless carcass over there, for some reason. Guess someone still thought of you as a patriot.
Langston glares for a moment at the tombstone, with the name Nathan Peterson carved into it. He looks down for a second, before facing it again.
Vincent Langston – But I guess it’s fitting you’re here. After all, you should have died with all of them. Instead of at my hands.
The Past
We return to Paris, seeing through Vincent’s memories, as he storms Nathan Peterson’s building, shooting anyone who got in his way. We see him standing over Peterson, who’s bleeding through his own pajamas from serious wounds.
Nathan Peterson – You don’t… understand. I had no choice!
Vincent Langston – You had no choice but to abandon us? Get us killed so that only you leave with the gold?
We see Langston eventually put a bullet through Nathan’s head, ending him once and for all.
Current Day
Langston consider Peterson’s grave some more, before letting out any breath he was holding onto.
Vincent Langston – I suppose you’ve paid your debt now, Peterson. I hope it was all worth it to you. I hope you lived life well until I found you. Others… couldn’t say the same.
Langston turns to the final, newest grave marker. It has the name “Juan Rodriguez” written on it. Langston sighs, remembering the last time he saw his former teammate.
The Past
Vincent watches, along with pal, “Sarge” Ronnie Powell, as they stand inside a homeless shelter. We see Juan Rodriguez aimlessly walking through the shelter, just looking for any food and shelter he can get for the night.
Current Day
Langston looks up at the sky, sorrow running through his face. He then looks back at where one of his final remaining friends is now buried.
Vincent Langston – I know I did all I could, Juan, once I found out about where you were living. I was hoping that the VA was going to help turn things around for you, once I got you an apartment and a nurse. I gave you all I could. But it wasn’t enough, was it? It’s never enough.
Langston lowers his head, sniffling slightly. It’s not like The Legend to be feeling emotional, but he can’t help himself at the moment. After a few seconds, he looks back at Rodriguez’s grave.
Vincent Langston – You’re the real reason I ended up where I am today, Juan. I never gave you enough credit for that, did I?
A smile crosses Langston’s face, showing through the tears that are silently running down his cheeks.
The Past
We are earlier in the card game, as Rodriguez is in the midst of talking about one of his favorite pastimes.
Juan Rodriguez – You’ve got to check out some old-school OCW tapes, guys. I’m serious. These guys will impress you with how much they do inside the ring. Their owner, Dean? He was a legend, I tell you.
Nathan Peterson – You do know all that stuff is fake, right? They’re just actors.
Juan Rodriguez – Not these guys. You can feel it every time they take a swing at each other.
Vincent Langston – I don’t know, Rodriguez. I think anyone from this unit would go in there and dominate them. They don’t have the training that any of us have gone through.
Corporal Sinclair passes out a new hand to each player still in the game, as the competition is ongoing.
Juan Rodriguez – I would love to see you wrestling, Vince. You’re large enough, and you’d get to beat up a lot of people. You’d probably enjoy it too much.
Vincent Langston – Eh, I’ve never seen myself as a spandex-wearing kind of guy.
Juan Rodriguez – Hah! You’re thinking way too far back. They don’t wear stuff like that anymore. They’re professionals in their own way. You’ve got to let me show you some of the videos I’ve got on my laptop.
Vincent Langston – Maybe. For a laugh.
Rodriguez grins, happy to spread his fascination of wrestling to someone else. Peterson can be seen, rolling his eyes. But Vincent is having too good a time to be too skeptical.
Current Day
Langston remembers watching those videos with Juan. He turns back to the grave markers, nodding to them.
Vincent Langston – You were such a fanboy for Online Championship Wrestling. Long before it had reopened, before the battle that left you scarred and homeless. Yeah, I’m sure one of the only reasons I signed onto OCW was because of thinking of what it meant to you. Maybe I didn’t remember it at the time… but it did mean something.
Langston sits back, taking a moment to stare into the clouds in the sky.
Vincent Langston – I’ve been given another chance there, you know. They’re having a grand, final match. Many of the greatest of all time are returning to compete. I don’t know who I’ll be facing. It could be your idol, Dean. Maybe guys who wrestled during my time, like Mike Best or Matt Meyhu. I could see them competing against me, much more than the old-school guys who have been retired for an age.
Langston plays some with the Christmas tree, fixing a few bent branches.
Vincent Langston – I would love another crack at Best. He’s the one who got away, the champion I never got a chance to dethrone. Destroying him and finally putting an end to his superiority complex would bring me the greatest joy in the world. Much better than just any present under the tree.
Langston finishes with the tree, readjusting it so that it’s in front of the center tombstone. Meeks always loved the holiday more than most, so the tree always goes in front of him, or at least where his body will forever be housed.
Vincent Langston – But I wouldn’t mind facing guys who are from the Hall of Fame. Each one of them, no matter their age, has name recognition. I could have to bodyslam a Big Bifford, suplex a Scott Syren, cut down a Curt Canon, or light up Lurrr. Whoever it is, I have no problems taking them to war. After all, if they’re still man enough to get into the ring with me, they’re man enough to accept the consequences.
Langston slowly stands up, considering the grave markers in front of him. He served with all of them, and other than Simmons, they’re all now gone. It’s down to him and Simmons to remember them, and to honor their legacy. Maybe not Peterson. But the rest, for sure.
Vincent Langston – I’m going to dedicate this match to you guys. But especially you, Rodriguez. I’m going to go out there and take down the toughest opposition in the world, and prove once and for all that I’m deserving of being called The Legend. Once I win, I’ll make sure that the world takes note of all your sacrifices, and honors you the way you should be honored. I swear it to you.
Langston’s phone suddenly buzzes, causing him to turn away as he pulls it out from his pocket. He checks the caller ID and answers, looking back the way he’s come.
Vincent Langston – Hello, Sarge. Yes, I’m about done here. I’ll be coming to pick up Cassie soon. You’re going to come over tomorrow, right? We’ve got a full meal planned, and we want as many of our family with us as possible. C’mon, Sarge, you know you’re family, right?
Langston chuckles at Sarge’s reply, which will remain a mystery to those watching at home.
Vincent Langston – Okay, Sarge. I’ll see you soon. Goodbye.
Langston hangs up, turning back to the graves once more.
Vincent Langston – I’ve got to go, boys. Maybe next year, I can bring Cassie out here to meet you. She’s not quite old enough yet. I don’t think she’d understand. But I won’t forget you. You’re family, too, after all.
Langston stands as straight as he can and throws a military salute at the graves. He then turns and leaves, heading back to his truck. We turn to the graves, moving along them, as solemn military music can be heard in the background. A ray of light seems to come through the clouds, illuminating them, as we fade out.
The sky is overcast, with thick clouds covering all. For wintertime, though, it’s not a terrible day. The rain and snow have held off so far, which is always a blessing, and the wind has actually kept itself relatively calm. All-in-all, it’s a perfect day for Vincent “The Legend” Langston as he parks his truck at the gate.
Langston gets out, slamming the door behind him, and goes to the tailgate. He opens it, pulling out a duffel bag from the back. He wraps it around his shoulder, turns, and heads to the gate, stepping through. There’s a flash of light.
The Past
Vincent makes his way back to the company tent, his latest ‘survey’ of the enemy complete. He has his semi-automatic pistol strapped to his side, having returned his heavier ordinance to the supply line. As Vincent goes inside, he stops short at the sight sitting in front of him.
Vincent Langston – I don’t fucking believe it.
Laughter answers his exclamation. He walks in, seeing the Christmas tree that has somehow been assembled inside the tent. Two men nearby walk over, handing him a beer.
Jeffrey Simmons – Enjoy, Vincent! We got ourselves our very own Christmas holiday today!
Vincent Langston – Who the hell sent us a tree?
Arturo Meeks – Peterson was able to get it for us, and some presents, too. The guy is a master at what he does, isn’t he?
Vincent looks over at Nathan Peterson. He’s sitting at a side table, where a festive holiday poker game is underway. Peterson tips his bottle at Vincent with a smirk, and Vincent returns it. They head over to the Christmas tree, with Vincent studying it.
Vincent Langston – I wasn’t expecting to see one of these again for years.
Jeffrey Simmons – Well, ‘tis the season, isn’t it? Merry Christmas, Private.
Vincent Langston – Merry Christmas.
Vincent, a rare smile on his lips, walks over to join Peterson, Rodriguez, and the rest. In Afghanistan, you take any enjoyment you can get.
Current Day
Langston makes his way up the path, knowing this trip by heart. He’s made it many times over the years, always arranging to be here when the holidays come around. It’s a tradition, but it’s also a compulsion. He would never miss it.
The Past
Vincent is seated at the table now, having been dealt into the game. He can’t help but stare at Kevin Fitzpatrick, who’s apparently found a homemade cap to wear for the festivities. Fitzpatrick returns his stare with a smile.
Kevin Fitzpatrick – What’s wrong, Langston? Never seen a Santa hat before?
Vincent Langston – Is that what that’s supposed to be? It looks more like Where’s Waldo mixed with a dash of moldy bread thrown in.
Kevin Fitzpatrick – Hey, now, the lady I bought this from said it was 100% American made.
Fitzpatrick says this with a laugh, knowing that the lady had been lying. But he was more than willing to help out some of the poorer people here in the country, even if he overspends on cheap goods. Vincent’s always respected that about him.
Vincent Langston – Well, if you’re Santa, than I’m expecting my gift any minute now. I’ll call.
Vincent throws his chips into the pot, looking very confident. Rodriguez and Peterson quickly fold, not wanting to stay in. Fitzpatrick continues to smile, glad that Vincent stayed in. He drops his cards.
Kevin Fitzpatrick – Full house, Jacks over Threes.
Vincent looks at the hand, shaking his head. Then he drops his own down, showing the four 8’s in his hand.
Vincent Langston – Four of a kind. Thank you, Santa!
Vincent pulls over the chips, as Fitzpatrick looks on, a little disappointed at having a strong hand fail him. But there’s still comradery between them, so there’s no resentment. He knows that whatever happens here at the table, Vincent will still have his back.
Nathan Peterson – Alright, guys, let’s get a new hand going. It’s time for me to start bringing Lady Luck to the table!
Vincent Langston – Yeah, Peterson, we’ll see if your luck holds out or not. Deal the cards.
Vincent nods to Peterson, who grins and grabs the deck. The cards start to fly, as the Christmas game continues.
Current Day
Langston walks through the cemetery, checking out all the gravestones as he makes his way through. There are always new ones, and although the odds are low that he’ll recognize any names, he still reviews them along the way. He passes by an older couple, who nod respectfully to him. The woman is fighting off tears, showing that there’s a strong likelihood that they’re here to visit a son or daughter who served their country. Langston shows them complete respect, leaving them to their grief.
Langston finally reaches his destination, pausing to look over the graves that are listed here. He knew there was one new addition. However, as he searches the graves, he realizes that, in actuality… there are two. He takes a knee in front of the newest gravestone, sighing and lowering his head.
The Past
It’s later on in the night. Fitzpatrick has long since gone All In, getting called and seeing his chips disappear. Commander Sinclair was out soon after, betting too strongly on a bluff that was called. Peterson, surprisingly, got taken out by a straight flush, ending the gambler’s night early. That’s left it down to Vincent and Rodriguez, with everyone else watching. Langston is a little behind in the count at the moment, having some bad hands dealt his way. But he finally feels like now’s his opportunity.
Vincent Langston – I bet 5,000.
Langston throws half his chips into the pot, as he stares at the two Aces sitting in his hand. The table shows another Ace sitting there, having landed during the flop along with a Six and Eight of hearts. Rodriguez studies his hand for a moment, thinking it over.
Vincent Langston – Don’t take too long, Juan. I have kitchen duty in the morning, and I want to be sure I have time to store away all of your money before then.
Juan Rodriguez – Whatever you say, Vince. I raise you… everything you’ve got.
Rodriguez puts the required amount in, a good chunk of his own money. The guys around the group react, feeling the intensity. After just a moment, Vincent shrugs and pushes all his money in, causing some applause. The two men show their cards… Vincent’s two Aces against Juan’s Seven and Nine of hearts.
Vincent Langston – Whew. You’re a risk taker, aren’t you? Not exactly a sure thing there.
Juan Rodriguez – I have faith, my brother. I have faith.
Corporal Sinclair, who has taken over the dealing duties since his departure from the guy, reaches for the deck. Vincent watches as he flips out the turn card, a King of Spades. Vincent’s smirk gets bigger, but Rodriguez doesn’t seem concerned. A second later, his faith is justified, as the river card turns out to be a Ten of Hearts. The crowd gasps, excited at what just went down. Vincent sits back in his chair, stunned, as Rodriguez pulls the chips over to him.
Juan Rodriguez – Sometimes faith is enough, Vince.
Vincent Langston – And sometimes you’re lucky as shit.
Rodriguez laughs, and Vincent joins in along with everyone else. This is how comrades-in-arms act. They don’t fight amongst themselves, they just get the job done and work as a unit. At least, most of them do.
Current Day
The camera is now behind Langston now, as he studies the gravestones sitting in front of him.
Vincent Langston – Kevin Fitzpatrick.
The image runs through, showing Fitzpatrick’s face as he realizes his Full House has failed him.
Vincent Langston – Arturo Meeks.
We see Meeks drinking a beer, looking like he’s having a great time.
Vincent Langston – Commander Darrell Sinclair.
The commander is shown, dealing out the cards on that last fateful hand.
Vincent Langston – I’ve been visiting you guys for years now, haven’t I? It doesn’t feel that long ago. But here we sit, once again. I made sure to bring it again, just like always.
Langston reaches into his duffel bag, pulling out an old, faded Christmas tree. While it’s artificial, the tree has still been through a lot over the years. A lot of pieces have fallen off. But you can still recognize it as the tree from that fateful Christmas overseas.
Vincent Langston – You know, that was one of my last happy memories from being in the service. That poker game. It wasn’t that long after that Peterson came up with his scheme to steal from a prince and take all of his gold. And then… everything went wrong.
The Past
Vincent is seen running, trying to make it back in time, hearing the battle that’s taking place where he left his comrades. He comes around the corner, taking out the combatants near him. But he’s too late. He views the devastation, going in and rescuing two men from the carnage: Jeffrey Sinclair, whose arm is badly damaged, and Juan Rodriguez. He carries the two out, in spite of the danger to himself, trying to make up for not being there on patrol while they were securing the area. Instead, he was off with Peterson, following the group’s plan to help with the gold. Peterson was nowhere to be seen.
Current Day
Langston looks over to his side at one of the newest additions to the group, having had all of these plots set aside for his unit. The tombstone has been professionally carved, showing that some money went behind getting it placed here.
Vincent Langston – And you, Nathan. I gotta admit, I didn’t expect you to get buried here. After all, you died in Paris. I figured they’d keep your worthless carcass over there, for some reason. Guess someone still thought of you as a patriot.
Langston glares for a moment at the tombstone, with the name Nathan Peterson carved into it. He looks down for a second, before facing it again.
Vincent Langston – But I guess it’s fitting you’re here. After all, you should have died with all of them. Instead of at my hands.
The Past
We return to Paris, seeing through Vincent’s memories, as he storms Nathan Peterson’s building, shooting anyone who got in his way. We see him standing over Peterson, who’s bleeding through his own pajamas from serious wounds.
Nathan Peterson – You don’t… understand. I had no choice!
Vincent Langston – You had no choice but to abandon us? Get us killed so that only you leave with the gold?
We see Langston eventually put a bullet through Nathan’s head, ending him once and for all.
Current Day
Langston consider Peterson’s grave some more, before letting out any breath he was holding onto.
Vincent Langston – I suppose you’ve paid your debt now, Peterson. I hope it was all worth it to you. I hope you lived life well until I found you. Others… couldn’t say the same.
Langston turns to the final, newest grave marker. It has the name “Juan Rodriguez” written on it. Langston sighs, remembering the last time he saw his former teammate.
The Past
Vincent watches, along with pal, “Sarge” Ronnie Powell, as they stand inside a homeless shelter. We see Juan Rodriguez aimlessly walking through the shelter, just looking for any food and shelter he can get for the night.
Current Day
Langston looks up at the sky, sorrow running through his face. He then looks back at where one of his final remaining friends is now buried.
Vincent Langston – I know I did all I could, Juan, once I found out about where you were living. I was hoping that the VA was going to help turn things around for you, once I got you an apartment and a nurse. I gave you all I could. But it wasn’t enough, was it? It’s never enough.
Langston lowers his head, sniffling slightly. It’s not like The Legend to be feeling emotional, but he can’t help himself at the moment. After a few seconds, he looks back at Rodriguez’s grave.
Vincent Langston – You’re the real reason I ended up where I am today, Juan. I never gave you enough credit for that, did I?
A smile crosses Langston’s face, showing through the tears that are silently running down his cheeks.
The Past
We are earlier in the card game, as Rodriguez is in the midst of talking about one of his favorite pastimes.
Juan Rodriguez – You’ve got to check out some old-school OCW tapes, guys. I’m serious. These guys will impress you with how much they do inside the ring. Their owner, Dean? He was a legend, I tell you.
Nathan Peterson – You do know all that stuff is fake, right? They’re just actors.
Juan Rodriguez – Not these guys. You can feel it every time they take a swing at each other.
Vincent Langston – I don’t know, Rodriguez. I think anyone from this unit would go in there and dominate them. They don’t have the training that any of us have gone through.
Corporal Sinclair passes out a new hand to each player still in the game, as the competition is ongoing.
Juan Rodriguez – I would love to see you wrestling, Vince. You’re large enough, and you’d get to beat up a lot of people. You’d probably enjoy it too much.
Vincent Langston – Eh, I’ve never seen myself as a spandex-wearing kind of guy.
Juan Rodriguez – Hah! You’re thinking way too far back. They don’t wear stuff like that anymore. They’re professionals in their own way. You’ve got to let me show you some of the videos I’ve got on my laptop.
Vincent Langston – Maybe. For a laugh.
Rodriguez grins, happy to spread his fascination of wrestling to someone else. Peterson can be seen, rolling his eyes. But Vincent is having too good a time to be too skeptical.
Current Day
Langston remembers watching those videos with Juan. He turns back to the grave markers, nodding to them.
Vincent Langston – You were such a fanboy for Online Championship Wrestling. Long before it had reopened, before the battle that left you scarred and homeless. Yeah, I’m sure one of the only reasons I signed onto OCW was because of thinking of what it meant to you. Maybe I didn’t remember it at the time… but it did mean something.
Langston sits back, taking a moment to stare into the clouds in the sky.
Vincent Langston – I’ve been given another chance there, you know. They’re having a grand, final match. Many of the greatest of all time are returning to compete. I don’t know who I’ll be facing. It could be your idol, Dean. Maybe guys who wrestled during my time, like Mike Best or Matt Meyhu. I could see them competing against me, much more than the old-school guys who have been retired for an age.
Langston plays some with the Christmas tree, fixing a few bent branches.
Vincent Langston – I would love another crack at Best. He’s the one who got away, the champion I never got a chance to dethrone. Destroying him and finally putting an end to his superiority complex would bring me the greatest joy in the world. Much better than just any present under the tree.
Langston finishes with the tree, readjusting it so that it’s in front of the center tombstone. Meeks always loved the holiday more than most, so the tree always goes in front of him, or at least where his body will forever be housed.
Vincent Langston – But I wouldn’t mind facing guys who are from the Hall of Fame. Each one of them, no matter their age, has name recognition. I could have to bodyslam a Big Bifford, suplex a Scott Syren, cut down a Curt Canon, or light up Lurrr. Whoever it is, I have no problems taking them to war. After all, if they’re still man enough to get into the ring with me, they’re man enough to accept the consequences.
Langston slowly stands up, considering the grave markers in front of him. He served with all of them, and other than Simmons, they’re all now gone. It’s down to him and Simmons to remember them, and to honor their legacy. Maybe not Peterson. But the rest, for sure.
Vincent Langston – I’m going to dedicate this match to you guys. But especially you, Rodriguez. I’m going to go out there and take down the toughest opposition in the world, and prove once and for all that I’m deserving of being called The Legend. Once I win, I’ll make sure that the world takes note of all your sacrifices, and honors you the way you should be honored. I swear it to you.
Langston’s phone suddenly buzzes, causing him to turn away as he pulls it out from his pocket. He checks the caller ID and answers, looking back the way he’s come.
Vincent Langston – Hello, Sarge. Yes, I’m about done here. I’ll be coming to pick up Cassie soon. You’re going to come over tomorrow, right? We’ve got a full meal planned, and we want as many of our family with us as possible. C’mon, Sarge, you know you’re family, right?
Langston chuckles at Sarge’s reply, which will remain a mystery to those watching at home.
Vincent Langston – Okay, Sarge. I’ll see you soon. Goodbye.
Langston hangs up, turning back to the graves once more.
Vincent Langston – I’ve got to go, boys. Maybe next year, I can bring Cassie out here to meet you. She’s not quite old enough yet. I don’t think she’d understand. But I won’t forget you. You’re family, too, after all.
Langston stands as straight as he can and throws a military salute at the graves. He then turns and leaves, heading back to his truck. We turn to the graves, moving along them, as solemn military music can be heard in the background. A ray of light seems to come through the clouds, illuminating them, as we fade out.