Neo Space Princess Blazin' Pink <3 - _{Interview 1}

"Miss Pink! Miss Pink! Kay Fabe, reporter with the Eorzean
Inquirer, please can I ask you a few questions about the fight tonight?"

"Of course, I would love to answer your questions,
but we should be friends, so no need to call me Miss!"
_{She had said this with all the enthusiasm that is expected of a Magical Girl.}

"Oh, 'course, should I just call ya Pink then? Or would
Neo be more appropriate, I've never spoken to a magical
girl... Right! I'm here on a job, sorry I just got really excited,
you certainly made an impression for yourself tonight.
So what brought you from saving the world, to saving souls in the ring?"

"Whatever you are comfortable with is great! We're friends
after all! I'm glad that you enjoyed it! But to answer your question,
I saw a gathering that was ripe for villainous intent, but also had
the potential to be used as a platform of hope to a wide audience.
It was hard to pass the opportunity to fight villains
while also spreading the virtues of hope and justice!"

"Oh wow!~ That certainly is somethin' to aspire to,
on that note, can I get an extra special scoop?
Have you always been a magical girl?"

"That is quite the question, one that doesn't have the easiest of answers.
I know that I was fourteen when I first managed to manifest my magical girl
powers, but according to the cosmic eye that allows me to utilize
the powers, I've always been a force for good, so for the short answer, yes!"

"Fascinating, one more question if I may. You really
put a target on yourself this evening, by calling a no contest
to the match you created a lot of contradictory opinions
from staff and fans alike... Are you any bit afraid of the
repercussions that might have on your career?"

"To be honest Kay, I consider myself the victor in that match.
Looking back I see what Kabal was attempting,
to tempt me into becoming a monster. I hope that if my decision to leave the match without dispatching my opponent and my decision to keep my virtues
in tact is something that the fans, my new friends, will understand.
As for the staff, I foresee I will be tested by other wrestlers
who see my decision as weak, and I will prove my strength, of body and mind
to them when the time comes. But I have no fear that my career
within the CRW will be coming to an end anytime soon."

"I see; well I am really excited to see where this goes!
It's exhilarating to see someone so hopeful in such a
doom and gloom arena! Especially one so small as you~
Oh! I hope that wasn't inappropriate... Until next time!"

Rey del Mar - _{Interview 1}

"Good afternoon Mister del Mar, can I call you that? I am Kay Fabe from
the Eorzean Inquirer; and I wanted to ask you a couple questions
about yourself and the Cross Realm Wrestling federation."

"Go right a'ead miss Fabe. I'll answer mos' anyfin'."

"Excellent, your willingness 's appreciated. Lets' get started
then, shall we? Tell me Mister del Mar, what brought you
into the world of professional wrestling?"

"Believe it or not, love, I've been part of fings like this fer
a long time. Not quite professional wrestlin', y'ken, but close enough.
Learned since I were a lad, travelin' shore tae
shore wiv me first captain an' crew."

"I see, been fightin' since day one really... Alright, how about this,
your first fight was against 'Blazing' Tempestus,
what can you tell me about that? You were able to pull ahead
in the end, were you nervous at all?"

"Nervous? Perish the thought, miss Fabe. I wos more than excited
tae get out there in a proper ring in front of a crowd. Even
if Tempestus 'ad tae cheat in the end, he put up a good fight."

"Thats incredible! He had me on the edge of my seat,
bringin' out that weapon o' his. One last question for now,
gotta keep the readers hangin' you know how it is...
Of those in the currently announced roster, who are you most lookin'
forward to squaring off against?"

"Y'know... I imagine would be a lot of people's answer, but I'm
actually lookin' forward tae goin' up against the Orange Coeurl.
Aye, similar tae Tempestus, but I got a good feelin'
we'd burn the damn arena down with 'ow hot the match would get."

"He's a popular one he is, crowd favorite for a long time,
well thank you for your time Mister del Ray,
it was a pleasure, and I look forward to talking to you again soon."

Killer Bee - _{Interview 1}

"Excuse me, Miss Bee? Kay Fabe with the Eorzean Inquirer,
can I ask you a few questions?"

“A publication wanting to talk with me, surprise…. surprise.”
_{She yawns, as if I'm beneath her.}
“I am an expensive catch. But you already know that don’t you.”
_{She blows one of her famous bubbles right in my face, snapping back the popped gum.}
“You need to ask yourself Kay. Is the price tag worth the payoff?”

"W-well I... Ahem, I am sure the inquirer would be willing
to pay whatever fee it is you have; wh-who wouldn't want an
article about such a powerful intimidating beautiful woman such as yourself..."

“Oh… Kay.”
_{Bee swat at the air in front of me playfully.}
“Your flattery, while all so very true. Won’t reap you any sort of discount.”
_{She hands me a handwritten invoice; even her writing is pretty...}
“Yes that is five zeros… and per question might I add.”
“Go on, call your editor. I’ll be right here waiting just for you, Kay.”
_{As Bee winks the heart on her cheek gives a wiggle.}

"I... Uhm, well...Yeah o-one moment...."

"H-hey boss, I was able to land an interview with the most ama-
S-sorry boss, yes boss, I promise to stay on track, c-could we
make a check out for ahem... Wh- Out of my- Yes boss..."

"Sorry about that Bee; the money will be deposited shortly; where was I?
You're one of the fiercest and most reputable fighters on the roster,
can you tell me about your workout routine?"

“I know right, I’m glad you recognize the truth.
See my greatness and why some call me Queen."
_{Bee laughs, rubbing her thumb along the bottom of her lip.}
"I knew I liked you the moment I saw you. Where were we, right my routine.
It all starts with a morning run, doesn’t matter where I am. I’ll find a path and
just go. After that I use anything or anyone I can get my hands on.”
_{Another eyebrow wiggle ending in a wink.}
“A balance of endurance and strength training.
This Bee needs to be able to dish out and take a hit all the same.”

"I-I.. W-well I, ahem... Th-thank you...
That sounds like a really nice way to wake up, I should...
Try it sometime... Follow it up with a nice breakfast... OH!
Would-you-look-at-the-time; one more question for the evening,
are you sing- single handedly planning on taking down Dema Gogue
or continuing to pair up with The Orange Coeurl?"

"Why yes, Kay. I am single and always looking."
_{Bee taps the center of her chest, flinging her finger out to me.}
"We should do that sometime. How about tomorrow?"
_{She's laughing but not at all kidding.}
"Dema is going to learn as everyone on this roster
is going to learn. Bee it I beat it into each and everyone
of them or they can open their eyes and see....
that I am the one to beat, Honey. That they are all beeneath me
_{She gestures that I am excluded from this list.}
and well Coeurl knows his lane and to stay out of mine;
Maybe... just maybe... I will aid him in his."

"It's a date then~ What was it we were talking about again?"

"Me, you and tomorrow... tonight."
_{She concludes beckoning me towards her.}

'Blazing' Tempestus - _{Interview 1}

"Excuse me, could I get an interview, my name is Kay Fabe,
from the Eorzean Enquirer, newcomer to the scene 'Blazing' Tempestus right?"

"That's right! It feels damn good to be claiming victory,
and believe me, having to handle myself around the squared circle
isn't that different from the rings I've fought in. The environment is different,
the opponent is different, but baby, I always have a trick up my sleeve."

"It was certainly quite the fight, you had everyone against
you in the audience, did that rattle your nerves at all?
How about being up against such a large man that is Rey del Mar?"

"Absolutely not. You see, when I go out there, I'm being honest,
I'm being myself. I'm not some schmoozer that acts like I love
the audience so they can buy my merch. Those people?
They're in need of someone to push them the right way, to be better.
Call it ego, call it arrogance, I call it tough love. They'll
know I'm right. As for Rey del Mar, I'll admit, it was a surprise, but again, he couldn't go the distance with me. He wasn't planned for every move
I could make, baby. You rile up a bull like that enough,
he's going to start swinging blind, and that's exactly where I wanted him."

"Well, you did bring out a weapon... Ahem...
If you were to portray one thing to the audience,
have them listen to one thing you told them,
and know it to be the absolute truth; what would that be?"

"Yeah, I did, and? Anyone else would have done so against that giant.
But, if we're getting back on topic, it's that people need a role model.
They need someone to work towards not just becoming,
but also showing they can exceed what they already do.
I want those people to know that they can be me, and I want them to know they can achieve more than I can. You need someone to look up to,
and you need someone you strive to be better than. That's how life is.
If you want to hate me, then say it to my face.
That's already a sign I'm helping you reach your goals."

"So bold of you to accept the hate, as if you are the truth in itself,
fascinating... Final question of the evening,
from the roster currently in play, excluding yourself,
who do you think will be going home with a title?"

"Excluding myself, what kind of question is that? You bet your floppy red ears
I'm going home with a title, baby. But if I'm going to be serious...
It's too early to tell. Maybe Killer Bee, maybe that Neon Space Princess.
Maybe Coeurl, just because. Hells, even Rey del Mar
might be championship quality. We're all champ quality, but you should expect that to change once we start proving ourselves in the ring."

"My ears aren't floppy...
I happen to have great ear posture thank you very much..."

"Off track again, focus Kay."

"I guess we have time for one
last last question... If you could name any celebrity,
or other well known figure into the ring, who would you fight against?"

"Oh, there is one person on my mind...
Very famous individual if you follow the sport of Blitzball.
Goes by the name of Ry'lah Dinhe, of the Ul'dah Gil Trudgeons,
or whatever they are. If you're reading this Ry'lah,
you're number-one on my list! When I get you in the ring, or outside it,
or in the streets, you better prepare for your punishment, baby!"

"I will have to talk to the Blitzball columnist about this
Ry'lah person and get back to you.
I look forward to our next encounter."

Bookwyrm - _{Interview 1}

"Excuse me, Bookwyrm? Could I get a few words for
my publication please? Kay Fabe, of the Eorzean Inquirer."

"Kay Fabe. Thou art a media reporter?
I am willing to grant thou mine insight if thou so desire."

"Very much appreciated, says here you are a wyrm loosely
descended from the great Midgardsormr; can you tell my readers
what kind of expectations there are to live up to from that?"

"Aha! Thou art the first amongst this collection of mortals
to take such interest in mine lineage and past. Correcting the record,
as a dragon. I am unable to fit in the ring or properly test mine
might against other wrestlers. And thus, I have lent mine spirit
to this Xaela girl and she hath become my avatar.
Rest assured. Tis a mutually beneficial arrangement."

"I see, I rather not delve too much into the history
of dragons since, it can be such a sore and confusing topic for many;
but on that thought, is there any stereotype, or misunderstanding
about dragons that you wish to disprove
during your tour in Cross Realm Wrestling?"

"Simply put. I wish to demonstrate we are not so so different from the other inhabitants of this star. We are not above joining thee in thine competitions or sharing revelry."

"A noble cause; just in the past few turns alone Eorzea
has had to adjust to a variety of new races coming from different
parts of Hydaelyn; just a handful of turns ago,
one would never see a Viera such as myself 'round here.
A final query, something out there; I assume you are an avid reader,
can you tell my readers what your favorite or go-to book is?"

"I confess, I have always found catching up on the general history
of thou people fascinating. Particularly the Eorzean Chronology
published by Sharlayan. Less... exciting than one may expect,
and yet. Tis important to have a foundation in the lessons of the past.
That goes for all that might read this interview."

"Really? But wouldn't you have lived through history?
_{((That was rude, damnit.))} I guess I should review my lessons,
I'm still learning of the world outside the Golmorre Jungle...
I'd really appreciate that, I'd love to hear your opinions next time!"

Kabal Mercy - _{Interview 1}

^{A pair of blue eyes peer from the door way of this darkened room,
the sleek black wolf mask barley poking out from the shadows.}

"Hm? Something there? My ears are itchy... I have Rey, Tempestus, Pink... Bee? Nope! Need more time... I could look for Coeurl..."

"You speak too much, madame."
_{He came stepping from the shadows,his arms crossed as a cold mist
flowed from his mask, his emotionless stare locked on me.}

"OH! Ohhhhh~! Kabal Mercy, I thought I missed you, Kay Fabe
from the Eorzean Inquirer, talkin' is just part of my job;
could I talk to you for a moment?"

_{Once again the stare followed, a hand coming towards me
with a polite waving motion leading into a bow.}
"Speak, tarnished."

"Hmpf, well I won't waste your time then
and I'll get straight to the point. Can you tell my audience
what is the message you're the Messiah of?"

_{He stepped closer, only a few ilms away; the cold mist lurking forward.}
"I am not the Messiah of a message, it is my message."
_{He slowly removed the mask, pointed ears popping free.}
"I am here to remind people of that they do not wish to remember,
accept that which is unacceptable, believe the unbelievable.
Allow them to understand the coins other side, the darker side
that rests just under its form."

"Understand the otherside...Uhuh....
And what is your end goal for those you follow you and your message?"

_{This time Kabal reached out, pressing my notepad against my chest, his eyes narrowing.}
"One you will not understand, nor do I plan to waste time telling you.
My disciples will hear the words from my own mouth,
I do not need a blind vulture twisting my message."

"Look, I'm just tryna do my job here,
if you don't want me putting your message out
word for word I'll write what I glean.
So tell me, are you a cult leader or what?"

"I am your saviour."
_{A hand came up, snapping as the lights fell before re-powering,
the Messiah gone from the room.}

"... I don't get paid enough..."

Charon, the Ferryman - _{Interview 1}

"Alright, boss man said to get a bit of each side, wonder if there any ring side personalities around... The Doctor is busy, refs?
Blues Shoes is talking to Judas about the rules, would the armory guy count...?"

_{The room grew cold, but I didn't notice it at first,
all the excitement of the try outs had my pulse racing,
the blue mist wrapping around my ankles unnoticed in my thought.}
"Are you looking for someone?"
_{The low,soft drawl, strange and otherworldly reverberated,
a gentle mockery, that scared the Word from me.}

"AHH!"
_{Crying out in shock and fear, I swung wide with my note pad,
striking them in the shoulder.}
"Ch-charon! I-it's you! It's you... Please don't spirit me away!"

_{They laughs, taking the hit.}
"It is I, yes."
_{Leaning in they hovered their fingers in under my chin to lift my head.}
"I only whisk away the willing, those who have embraced
true darkness in pursuit of strength. Worry not, my dear interviewer."

"Ah-... Ahem... uhm... Yes w-would you be interesting in saying
a f-few words for me? I mean my paper?"

"For you?"
_{Smiling again at me, Charon drops their hand, straightening their posture.}
"I would be delighted to say a few words.
I will answer whatever I can to the best of my ability."

"I... W-well thank you! Alright, uhm, what is your relationship
with Kabal Mercy, is he your client?"

"Client, contractor, messiah, our relationship is one of mutual benefits.
It is my duty and privilege to assist him in spreading his message,
and to empower him as he grows in strength."
_{They bow to me once more, so courteous.}
"There are many who do not understand what he is truly about or
capable of. I am here to be the bridge for true salvation to those who desire it."

"Oh~ That is exciting then, I really should get more information
on this message of his... B-but first, back to work, ahem...
Are there any wrestlers you worry for your client about?"

"Worry?"
_{Their hand waves dismissively.}
"Do you concern yourself with ants beneath your feet when
you are walking on a hot summer day? His message is ironclad, Kabal has delved within his own darkness, drunk deep of the well of despair,
and emerged with strength unparalleled. His competition are idealists
who know not of real strength,
and unblooded children who bleat about with their inferiority complexes."
_{Their slow grin gleams with pearly whites in the darkness of the room.}
"Would you be concerned?"

"I... Wh-where can I learn more about his message?"

_{A hand extended, the blue mist rising as it wraps around Charon
like a gentle embrace, an inviting smile and a tilt of their head welcomes me.}
"I would be happy to discuss my Messiah's message
to one who wishes to learn true strength. After all,
it is a journalist's nature to pursue the curious and exciting, is it not?"
_{The mist rises higher, drifting closer to me, as I walk towards it.}
"Allow me to indulge you."

Reska, the Baroness - _{Interview 1}

"Baroness? Reska, the Baroness, a few words for my readers please-
Wow.... S-sorry! Fay Kabe, I mean Kay Fabe, Eorzean Inquirer, a moment?"

_{The Baroness seemed mildly irritated at my approach.}
"Oh, you're talking to me. Right, yes, let us get this over with.
Questions? I'm on a tight schedule, but I could spare a moment."

"O-oh b-but of course, real quick! Just a preliminary contact....
You called out my- the... The queen during your interview,
what has provoked you to do such?"

"Oh,"
_{There is a moment of laughter from the Baroness.}
"That little thing. Only arrogance or complacency
could explain why her majesty couldn't be bothered to grace her subjects
with an appearance. I only mean to remind her what happens when you
get too comfortable. And I'd look better in a throne.
Let's be honest with ourselves here."

"Wh- Y- How dar-... Ahem...
While I admit it was disappointing that she didn't show
but that is nothing to hold against her, she just happens to have
a very busy schedule... Th-that being said does this mean
you intend to challenge her for her throne and position on the CRW hierarchy?"

"Who knows, at this rate, maybe I will."

"That would be a very exciting match, gold versus gold.
Who deserves to brandish themselves in riches and fame...
One final question what did you think of the others who
presented themselves tonight, any one of them."

"Colorful lot. That Charon bloke gives me the creeps.
More than a few loudmouths, but I'm eager to see if they're all enough of a challenge. It would be dreadful if I reached the top and grew bored."

"Such confidence! I look forward to seeing where your career takes you...
One more thing before I leave you, less a question more a statement.
Are you sure it's not yours whos bark is worse than your bite?"

Bookwyrm - _{Interview 2}

"You. Bookne- Bookwyrm, got a minute to say a few things?"

_{The Dragoness turned her head as she noticed me. Upon her brow was a bandage,
staunching bleeding from the previous events of the eve.}
"Yes. Me. Thou require words? What be thine prompt?"

"_{So pretentious.}"

"Ahem, yes I wanted to get your thoughts on that fight..."

"My thoughts?"
_{The dragoness repeated. Taking my microphone for herself.}
"My thoughts are. Rey. Del. Mar. Has strong tactical acumen
and knows how to take advantage of a situation. He will go far
and I await the day we may test our might without. ... Distractions."

"Distrac-!!"

"_{Why does everyone take my microphone...}"

"Hmpf, well I do admit the bout between you and that hulking beast of a man was impressive, I wonder if even she could have lifted him the way you did."

"She."
_{Bookwyrm paused for effect.}
"Rey Del Mar was most certainly heavy, yes.
I look forward to demonstrating much the same with King Behemoth.
After all. Who better to topple a Behemoth than a Dragon?"

"Behemoth? You mean King Behemoth? The man who lifted
the annoying punk up like a ragdoll? You. Are going to lift and topple, him?"

_{Bookwyrm held her hand out to the side in a confident shrug as
she still held the mic, smirking mischievously.}
"But of course! Should fate dictate we meet upon the ring,
I shall be subjecting him to far more than a fall. But one must make a point.
My frame might be small. But. I. Am. Not. Weak."

"_{Please that's expensive and my boss will kill me if it gets broken.}"

"Well that will be an exciting match indeed. The ultimate beast of the land,
versus the sky.... Fine, you've impressed me... Despite the bite..."

"As a matter of fact. Yes. I do have. One. Thing. To. Say."
"Killer Bee. Thou prance about, interfering with matches,
thinking thee invincible under protection of the Orange Coeurl.
Know. This. Thou might style thineself queen bee, royalty of the CRW.
Thou abuse thine privilege. Throw other wrestlers off thine games
showboating and stealing the spotlight.""But.""I am a dragon.""And I will. Burn. Thy. Kingdom. Down."_{With that Bookwyrm returns my mic to me and walks off, nursing a headwound.}

Killer Bee - _{Interview 2}

"Heeey, fancy seeing you here again... S-sorry, I know this isn't the ti-
Your hand! You're still bleeding, lemmegetsomethingforthatdamnthatWyrm."

"Ohhh, Kay!"
_{She winks through the pain she was feeling,
between the two bite wounds a busted lip.}
"You always know where to find me."
_{Bee clicks to tongue to cheek.}
"After all there is no Killer in Killer Bee with out Kay."
_{She beckons me closer with the curl of her finger.}

"Haaa~ Such a tease... You were amazing out there y'know?
If that smartass hadn't sat back down... I-I should do my job... Right?
Yeah... How are you feelin' about that two bit copycat Reska?"

"You mean Reeks the Boringness."
_{Bee laughs recounting the events of the night with that sparkle in her eyes,
looking directly at me. Wow...}
"After all imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
They want to be me or beat me. What can I say?"
_{The heart on her cheek wiggles at me.}
"We both know there is only one of Bee,
and that ring only has room for one like me."

"Oh I like that! Reeks the Boringness, so clever~
That they do indeed, and who could blame her; there is a reason you are a Queen,
and she is only a Baroness. You outrank her in all aspects.
And you don't really need the King up there on his throne do you?
I know you're working with the Coeurl out of necessity,
is there a plan to take him out? You can tell me, right?"

"I like you Kay."

"_{OhmyWord,ohmyWord,ohmyWord,ohmyWord,ohmyWord,}"

_{She smiles reaching for letter off her personal vanity in her
spacious private locker room. So pretty...}
"You are the only one that is allowed to conduct my interviews after all."
_{Bee nudges me, with a letter from... My boss?
Based on a signed agreement for} my _{exclusive rights for the Eorzean Inquirer
to interview the one and only Killer Bee, with big numbers for each of our pays!}
"First let me clear something up for everyone in the CRW. I've never called
myself the Queen Bee. You all have given me that title,
and like pollen it has spread. Yes I have embraced it."
~Bee makes motions to her beautifully toned waist winking at me.~
"I'm coming for that title,
and when I take it you will all bow to the ONE and ONLY QUEEN!"

"I- Eeeee!!! S-sorry! Sorry... Wow... You did this, for me? I-I'm honored.
Wh-where was I again? Yes my Quee- TheQueen, The... Queen...
At least in this humble reporters opinion you deserve that title,
and so much more; and I cannot wait to see you grind the old man into the dirt...
You know you are the only one of the 'big three'
that has taken the time to talk to me?"

_{Her hand rubs mine, holding it over the microphone mouthing. 'Anything for you.'}
"I am going to fight my way to the top and earn that title.
Anyone and I mean anyone... who stands in my way, you better look out.
I don't care if you are Rey getashortername, Tempees his pants,
Book shut the fuck up wyrm, or Reeks the Boringness. You will feel the Sting!"
_{With that Bee whirls me around bending me back over her injured arm for a kiss... Wow...}

Kari Karnage - _{Interview 1}

"Excuse me, Kari? Kari Karnage? Kay Fabe with the Eorzean Inquirer,
do you think I could get a few words about that match?"

_{She spins around to face me, yikes she is in bad shape.}
"Wh-Oh! Yeah, sure! Just got my face un-fucked, so."
_{Still she throws me a thumbsup.}
"What's up, buttercup?"

"Wh- uhm... Ahem.... I just wanted to get a few words, some opinions,
how you are feeling post... Uh... Getting your face fuc-... Gettinginjured!
Yep... Getting injured and not anything else... You... Uhh... Feeling alright?"

_{Kari smirks, raising an eyebrow.}
"Damn, flustered already, and I ain't even thrown out a line! Damn, I'm good!"
_{Now she's laughing.}
"Yeah, I'm good! You look like you need some air though! Wanna take this outside?"

"I- Well...
LookhowamIsupposedtoreactwhenIamsurroundedbyhotbuffedgywomen!
I... Ahem.... Just some water maybe?"

_{Snorting she reaches around to pat me on the shoulder, the static electricity tingles.}
"Alright, water it is. Let's chat on the way up! What did you wanna know?"

"Woods take me now."

"How are you feeling after such a beat down? Andseka was relentless,
and the ref did nothing after the match ended.
Will we continue to see you in the ring after this kind of treatment?"

"What, you think a li'l roughin' up by a mutt's enough
to get me to back down? Hells no!"
_{A finger pokes me in the clavicle.}
"I came to do one thing, and one thing only - make the Sunbears a household name,
and I ain't about to let that Lupin cosplayer kill my shine."

"This is great news! The fans are sure to love that,
everyone loves a good case of vengeance; I'm not sure if you saw
her get spirited away by that oh so mysterious Charon-...
Seems she is getting mixed up in the cult. Shaping up to be an interesting season,
last question, who are you most excited to face off with in the season proper?"

_{She folds her arms across her chest.}
"The Orange Coeurl's my top pick, on account a' he's the head an' all, but if there's a good-for-nothin' cult runnin' around, well.."
_{There's a malicious grin across her face.}
"I might have to take a li'l more notice."

"Seems there's a lot of folks vying to fight the face of all faces,
with that, I will let you go, please take care of yourself,
I look forward to talking with you again!"

"Don't forget that water! Can't have ya' passin' out in the ocean of estrogen~"

Reska, the Baroness - _{Interview 2}

"Baroness? Remember me, a few quick words?"

_{The baroness returned my smarmy smile.}
"Of course. I'm happy to spare a moment."

"I saw the way Miss Rose took you down, how are you feeling about that?
About true royalty showing up to show you where you belong on the hierarchy?"

"You know, Kay. Can I call you Kay? I'm gonna call you Kay."
_{She reaches out to pat my shoulder with her metal hand.}
"I'm gonna be honest with you about a couple of things now. Paying attention?"

"W-well Kay is my name? Or at least the one I go by
since leaving the Jungle... That metal arm of yours is a lot colder
than I thought it would be, I-I'm not a touchy person so if you wouldn't mind..."

"I'm not thrilled that I lost, but that's neither here, nor there."
Reska plucks a piece of lint off of my shirt,
then holds the hand up in plain sight,
letting the levin course through it a moment.
"And I'll level with you. You're right. I'm not true royalty. I took this title.
And you don't wanna know what I did to do so. That clear?"

"... Crystal... Ohwouldyoulookovertheresomeadoringfans!"

WorldEater - _{Interview 1}

"Excuse me, Mister WorldEater; Kay Fabe, Eorze-"

_{Souless silver eyes glare down at me, his leather gloved hand reaching for his mask/muzzle.}

"Ahem- I'm with the uh... Eorzean Inquirer, can I get a few wor-"

_{Leaning down in close slowly, theres nothing in that stare, save endless torment and...
He's snatched my notepad from me... And eaten it.}

"Wh-..."

_{I don't think he chewed it more than twice, that was a brand new book...}

Judas - _{Interview 1}

"Hey, you're the new ref right, Jose- Judah... Judas! Judas. Could I get a few words real quick? Names Kay Fabe, with the Eorzean Inquirer."

"I'm charging Dema extra for this,"
_{He muttered.}
"S'pose so. What is it y'wanna know?"

"Fine by me, no point in whispering, this ears hear all...
I wanted to get your thoughts on the matches of course.
Being in the ring with them you are up-close and personal with the wrestlers,
what stood out to you the most this evening?"

"I'd say I was impressed by all the fights, but for the most part they were...tame,
by my standards. The little viera...Bossy Boy. He was funny."
_{Judas hummed and blew smoke sort of away from me, that's nice.}
"The direwolf woman, Andseka. She put on a damn good show. Very...colorful."

"It was certainly funny seeing that pain in my ears getting
himself brought a few notches down. She puts on one hell of a fight
that's for sure... B-but don't you think you should have gotten involved?
The fight was over and she kept kicking Kari when she was down."

"Gotten involved? Kay, once the match is over I'm off the clock, yeah?
Dema doesn't pay me to play security. And Kari...well.
I don't like havin' people in my personal space, y'know.
And I told her she'd regret touchin' my smokes."

"You uhh... Just kinda listen to whatever Dema Gogue says, don'cha?"

"She is the one signing my check."

"I thought the CRW was run by a combination of herself and Coeurl,
is there something going on behind the scenes?"

_{Judas shrugged.}
"Dunno. Not interested in the judges' politics. Listen, I'll see you later Kay.
Got smokes to sell and people to... help. Buh bye now!"

'Blazing' Tempestus - _{Interview 2}

"Mister Tempestus, hello, remember me? Kay Fabe, Eorzean Inquirer;
before you leave can I ask you a few quick questions about tonights match?"

_{He peels off the wrapper of a lollipop, shoving it in his mouth, pressing
his shades against his nose as he looked towards me.}
"Shoot."

"Thank you, first off, what do you think about the Cult after this fight,
despite their magicks and trickery you and yours managed to come out on top."

"My opinion still stands. Nothing more than a pair of ragged mongrels keeping themselves held up by false arts and fancy lights. But do you know what rubs me wrong the most, Kay? There are people in that audience that cheered for those savages. People that wanted to see me, Kari, and Jet be beaten."
_{Tempestus's hand waved towards the wall, to mimick where the crowd would be.}
"I stood in front of fear and I spat in its face. The Gangstars didn't just
defend our territory against them, no, we DEFENDED Cross Realm Wrestling
FROM them! And THAT was the thanks we got?!"
_{A breath was taken in, shaking his head.}
"I apologize, I'm getting a bit heated. I shouldn't."

"There was a lot of hate for you all..."

"Not that I blame them with how Jet is towards me."

"You have every right to feel what you feel, here I brought
some water bottles... Can I ask you something that may be a touchy subject?"

^{Tempestus withdrew his lollipop with his left, as his right reached for a bottle,
removing the top and chugging it down. He held onto it with a huff.}
"Depends how touchy."

"That cue card that your manager sent you... What was that about?"

"That?"
_{Tempestus almost snapped back, then paused. His expression remained fuming,
just remembering it, lips rolling back and forth to figure out
how to explain it, before bluntly stating.}
"I said how much I hated being in Doma, and insulted its people.
Then Bee came along, I told her I'd never step foot in the Far East
again if she beat me, and, well... She did."
_{Another pause, lasting moments, came from the Brawling God.}
"I didn't get the time to say it out in the ring, tonight, but...
I'm honoring what I said. Out of respect for the Domans."
_{A scoff left him after, shaking his head.}
"Not that any of them are gonna want me back."

Andseka, the Unnatural Selection - _{Interview 1}

"Excuse me Andseka, Fay Kabe.. uh Kay Fabe, Eorzean Inquirer?
Do you have a minute to chat?"

_{The wind seemed to somehow howl despite being indoors as Andseka
slowly turned her head to glance at me.}
"Hmm, have you decided to be my next meal?"

"Uhm... I... I think there's a waiting list? I... should I go?
I can talk to someone else from the Cult..."

_{Thump. A hand firmly pressed against the wall over my shoulder.}
"I was not referring to the restaurant. Though a little rabbit
confit sounds just lovely right now."

"Ohhelloyouarereallyclose...
Hasanyoneevertoldyouhowbigandsharpyourfangsare?
OhIthinkIhearmylinkpearl!"

"Beehelpmethisotherbuffwomanhasmepinned... Ishouldbemorescaredthan-..."

"No."
_{She grabbed hold of my chin surprisingly tenderly...}
"I am aware of you, Mx. Fabe. You are here to ask me questions.
You will do so."

"-help."

"Uhm... S...so... what did you... uhh think of your rematch with... Kari?"

"We lost, I am not afraid to admit. However truly? I am grateful. I have been given insight to see that even I am not above complacency. I have grown comfortable with the safety of a team to support me. But real power, Mx. Fabe, comes from nowhere but yourself."
_{Her hold on my chin moved down to my neck during the monologue...}

"Pleasemissyouareveryclose."

"Focus, Kay, focus. You are a spoken for bun."

"G... grateful for a loss? That's really strong to say. "

"Necessity is the mother of evolution, my dear."
_{Thank the Word she finally let go of me. She seemed rather dramatic with
how she turned around and posed after.}
"And so I am grateful, so grateful for I now have proof that this saltbox
truly does contain the strength I seek. That it truly will force me to evolve as I have so desperately wished to find for turns upon turns. I will no longer allow myself to be held back, Mx. Fabe. When next I step foot in that fated squared circle, the conflict to arise shall be the nativity that caresses and nurtures the next generation's pain and strife. The suffering. Shall be. Exquisite."

The Orange Coeurl - _{Interview 1}

"Hello, big fan; thank you so much for inviting me here on behalf
of my employer... Kay Fabe, sports columnist for the Eorzean Inquirer;
I was hoping you had a minute to talk to me about this huge undertaking of yours?"

"Of course, of course."
_{Coeurl took my extended hand, giving it a shake before moving to sit down at his desk.}
"Big fan of the articles, Kay. Can I call you Kay or do you prefer something else? Anyhow, take a seat, more than happy to answer some questions for ya, yeah?"

"Oh thank you- This is comfy! Kay is fine, and you,
do you prefer me to address you as The Orange Coeurl,
or is just Coeurl fine as most people seem to call you?"

"Yeah, nothing like a nice soft place to sit after a night of taking bumps."
_{He laughed and gave a nod.}
"Coeurl is fine. Something to drink?"
_{The question was asked, as he was already pulling out a few cans of NSP Cola
and setting them on the desk.}
"So, whatcha wanna know, Kay?"

"Can... Can I have one of those?"
_{I was already reaching for one.}
"Did my share of cheering earlier... Well first off;
how are you feeling about bringing all this back, I won't speak of times past.
But you have brought forth a new promotion with yourself and
Dema Gogue at he helm. What is going on in your head."

"Go right head."
_{The can was pushed towards me.}
"I know, saw you out in the audience. Truth be told? I'm over the moon with it. I enjoyed doing this in the past, and I still enjoy doing it. But... There's something really damn cool about being the one to make it happen for everyone else, yeah?"

"Thank you, and ah... I am a big fan; something about the collective
hive mind of the audience is... engaging. But enough of my obsessing,
it is absolutely brilliant for you to bring back this passion.
If you were to have one wish for your program, one key element you want to highlight over the course of the season... What would it be?"

"Right. Well... If I have to narrow it down to one key element?
It would have be the wrestlers and the display of their skill in the ring.
Folks always think its real easy to just hop in the ring and do this stuff.
But it ain't. It's a lot of hard work and a lot of know-how to do what we do.
I mean, you've seen us out there. Sure, we might make it look easy, but doing that for twenty-thirty minutes at a time? Most folks would gas out in the first few."

"I couldn't begin to imagine, but I'm best suited for writing my reports.
It's clear to me just how proud of your cast that you are Coeurl,
you have truly built up something amazing here.
Before I let you go to greet the rest of your fans...
There's no chance I could get a sneak peak at the titles... is there?"

"Mmmm.... I suppose. But no writing about what you see, alright?"

Punchline - _{Interview 1}

"Oh wow! That's some impressive juggling;
I could just relax a minute and watc- No, I have a job to do.
Excuse me, are you Punchline? Name's Kay Fabe, I'm with the Eorzean Inquirer,
can I have a moment of your time?"

_{Catching all three of the bowling pins she is currently juggling
Punchline flashed a happy smile towards me.}
“Oh hi! You sure can have a moment of my time Kay Fabe all the time you need.”

"Green Word, that was amazing, how did you do that,
I'd be so afraid to nick my ears... Sorry sorry, I just wanted
to talk to you quickly about the fight; how are you feeling?
You took a nasty break through the desk."

_{She stretched a bit at the mention of her back wincing slightly clearly still sore.}
“Meow! I’m still a tad sore from my recent trip through the desk, yes. x0
I may have to hit up a massage parlour maybe?”

"How do you do that with your face..."

"That does sound nice, I always feel so tense after I leave the arena...
But I am glad to see you're feeling at least a little better!
You seem to have a lot of tricks up your sleeve,
can we expect more hilarious hijinks to come during the rest of the season?"

_{Punchline’s face lit up with a smile and a wink.}
“Oh you betcha Kay Fabe, I plan to entertain and delight the masses.
A whole lot of hilarious and awesome things are just around the corner. More tricks, acrobatics and fun is on the way! Yay! ;3"
_{Promptly performing a backflip then following it up with a pose and fireworks.}

"You are a treasure! Everyone here has been very intimidating in...
More ways than I care to admit... But one final question before I let you go...

"Your face... How...

Dema Gogue. Despite her absolute hatred of you, you seem
so inclined to befriend her, full well knowing she has a monster
like WorldEater in her corner, and the power of those abhorrent collars; why?"

“Meow! Everyone needs a friend. I also think she may need a little more less…
Mmm how should I say this? One less bitey friend? Maybe after we are friends,
Demi might put the collars aside and maybe join me for pizza.” \ :3 /

Lady Luck - _{Interview 1}

"Lady Luck correct? A moment of your time if I may,
I'm with the Eorzean Inquirer, Kay Fabe."

"OH! I've heard of that! So you're here to talk to me? Awesome!"

"Indeed I am! It's always exciting to see new faces around,
and you're entirely new here. Everyone else has made
appearances in some manner and just this evening you took center
ring to unveil this unnervingly addicting card phenomenon,
and joined Dema Gogue at the commentators desk!"

"Yup, Dema Gogue and The Orange Coeurl reached out to us at Card Kingdom
and requested we put something together for the league.
The Queen and Blackjaque were so intrigued by it,
they decided to put the full stops out! With that they sent me and Missy F...
wait Miss Fortune, out to helm this project. We were honestly surprised they let us join at the commentary desk with them!"

"Card... Kingdom... I'm going to have to give that a bit of digging!"

"I need more cards."

"Was commentating not part of the contract?! You were just thrown into the pit with... that woman? How are you feeling, she didn't do anything to you did she?"

"Oh no! Demmy's a doll! I mean a bit to sadistic and cruel,
but I've had to fight for the last piece of dodo against Miss Fortune before,
and if I survived that I can survive anything!"

"That is... concerning. Are you sure it's wise to call her Dem- that?
After everything... Nevermind,
tell me then Lady Luck how are you enjoying the world of professional wrestling?"

"IT'S AMAZING!!! I WASN'T EXPECTING ANYTHING LIKE THIS!!! DID YOU KNOW THERE WERE GONNA BE WRESTLING CLOWNS AND ROBOTS?!? LIKE WHEN SHE POPPED OUT HER ARM!! OR EVEN THE JOY BUZZER STUNT AND..."
_{With that Lady Luck proceeded to ramble on, and on, and on...}

"I'm... Just going to go now..."

Miss Fortune - _{Interview 1}

"Miss? Miss Fortune? A moment of your time, if I may. Kay Fabe,
Eorzean Inquirer. A pleasure to meet you Fort- Misssss? Sorry his how,
exactly should I address you? You can call me Kay, I go by they/them pronouns."

“I believe I’ve seen you about. You’re the reporter, right? I think I saw
Junior talking your ear off not too long ago. Since you’re cute, you can call me Missy. She/her if it helps. What can I do for you?”

"I -ahem-, Missy it is. Indeed that would be me, Jet,
or as he's told me Mister Jet Justice Junior tends to steamroll
me whether he's on my list or not… but that's neither here nor there.
I wanted to ask you about your position here in CRW;
your introduction was a sudden unexpected turn.
How are you finding things first off?"

“Jet is.. Well.. He is Jet.”
_{She chuckled.}
“It was a bit of a surprise, for both Card Kingdom and myself. But
with the success of Card Kingdom, we were more than happy to join CRW.
I’d say with the direction and assistance of Coeurl and Dema, it never felt.. Awkward. It all felt natural. It’s quite an exciting experience.”

“Jet certainly is Jet… I am very excited to see exactly what it is you
have in store for us. The pair of them do seem keen on expanding
and getting themselves known. I am glad you’ve found it to be
quite natural, the two absolutely terrify me, just the sheer
strength of their wills. Tell me Missy, what is it you are most looking
forward to during your time with the CRW?”

“They’re both curious in their own manner, Coeurl and Dema.
The power struggle between the two isn’t new to me. It is admittedly
fun to watch. As for what I am looking forward to.. Hm.. Well, I certainly enjoy watching the shows, getting to meet the Wrestlers and how they’re all different. Admittedly, I am a fan of a little chaos now and then. Watching how everything unfolds, the twists and turns, the brutality.. It’s exciting to say the least.”

"You are right indeed, it’s fascinating the drama, the build up, the lore!
Before I go for now, I have one more question to ask, if you could build your perfect match out of all cast and crew; who would you pit against one another?”

“Oh, now that would be something... Hm... You know, I have a bit of joy with the
idea of Neo Space Princess working with Kabal Mercy...
Making them work together would be hell in a hand-basket. Against...”
_{She tapped a talon on her cheek.}
“...Jet Justice Jr. with King Behemoth. The chaos that would ensue with it all~”

Kari Karnage - _{Interview 2}

"H-hey! Kay! You.. you sure you're up for an interview after...
...That was some horse shit, not even gonna front."

"... I...You- aren't you on his side..."

_{She frowned, worry evident in her brow.}
"Yeah, we're a team an' all, but goin' after the crowd like that is
moustache-twirlin' gutless coward shit. I'mma hafta
have a chat with him about that later."

"What he did to B-... To her... You're not half bad y'know-"

"Shite that was probably a bad thing to say."

"I try to keep shit in the ring. Aaaaanyroad, Bee'll be fine!"
_{She waves a hand dismissively.}
"Temp might have weird ideas about what 'winning' is, but he wouldn'
just kill someone in front'a the crowd. He ain't that stupid."

"Thank you for that... But back to business, you fought against Penny there,
it was pretty back and forth for sometime, you survived the Penny Pincher;
how are you feeling after that?"

"Pfffff, she telegraphed that thing a malm off! Plus, that huge dress?
No way she can move quick enough in that thing. Easy-peasy."
_{She looks confident and smug.}

"Alright one last thing before I let you go...
Can you tell us the relationship between you and The Orange Coeurl?"

"Wh- Th- He's a DICK an' I'mma kick his BUTT-"
_{A finger is jabbed in my face as Kari suddenly takes off.}

Toki Tornado - _{Interview ?}

_{A blur runs up and greets me with a big, overly familiar hug}
"Eeee!! It's Kay! Hey you! You look like you're doing great! I love your hair this time!"

"Whoareyouwhyareyoutouchingme- Toki? Toki Tornado...
Hiiiiiiiii? Why are you hugging me?"

"Oh!"
_{She backs off from me.}
"That's right we haven't met yet! Sorry about that, I got excited!"

"Haven't met yet? You mean, not only is this not your timeline,
you're going into it out of order?
Do you know what's going to happen with the CRW?"

"Hm? Oh! Sort of! Some things are different this time around! I'm still a little worried about the Gobblewobbler. I hope WorldEater didn't get to them..."

"The... What? With that mans appetite, I wouldn't be too surprised,
he ate my old notebook 'swhy I have a fancy magitek recorder now.
Are you confident in this timeline as a whole though?
You don't think that woman is going to get control do you?"

"Dema Gogue? There's a possibility, but the future is still up to us
to decide what we want it to be. I'm going to fight for the best future
I can with all my friends!"

"Thats... Really hopeful to hear,
I'm afraid if I ask you anymore questions,
that'll I'll have the ending spoiled for me...
So, can you tell my readers, what's the craziest timeline you've been to?"

"Hmmmm... I think that the craziest one was probably when Punchline
ended up in charge of the league. Things got... pretty wacky!
The Pie Matches were fun, but the Turnbuckle Surprises were a little annoying!
I don't think Dema Gogue will let anything like that happen in this timeline though!"

"The what?"

Penny Pummel - _{Interview 1}

"Hi, you having a tea party there? My name's Kay,
do you think I could talk to you for a minute?"

"PFFFT! Your name is CAKE?"
"Well Miss Cake...or is it Mister Cake? Jackie is this a boy or a girl?"
_{Jackie shakes her head.}
"Oh. Well, Cake you have to ask if it's okay with Jackie. It's her party."

"Uhh... no... Kay... Kaaaay, like... the letter? Me?!
I'm hmm... Nevermind that- Ask Jackie? Alright,
Miss Jackie, can I sit with you and talk to you both for a minute?"

_{Jackie stares at me for a good few seconds as if doing a deep analysis then turns
her head with an odd clicking noise before giving Penny a nod.}
"Fine, you can have some tea with us but these are OUR cookies."

"Thank you both, I promise I won't interrupt long. Thank you for the tea-"
_{The cup is empty.}
"Let's start off easy, what brings you both to the CRW?"

"Well first, I hear there are some good dum dums to beat in the ring,
like that clown that went DOWN!"
_{She chuckles at herself.}
"And I deserve to be known as the bestest in the ring.
Plus Miss Dema is a super nice woman who gives me what I want so...
I like to make her problems go away. Like the clown she hates so much.
I beat her you know. Have you seen Jackie do a whole HUNDRED jump rope skips?"
_{Jackie affirms with a nod.}

_{Mid sentence as I try to sip the fake tea she growls WAY aggressively.} "PINKY UP!"

"Yes'm."
_{My pinky flies up.}
"Dema Gogue- Or Miss Dema as you say, is nice to you?
Seems you are the only one who sees that side of her."

"Hard to imagine any redeeming qualities."

"You're not afraid to be part of her stable? Between her and that monster?"

"Uh, no, why would I be afraid? She's all sorts of nice!
And WorldEater only eats bad people anyroads.
I know they're bad because Miss Dema doesn't like them."
_{Penny does a mock yawn.}
"I'm bored. One more question. Make it good."

"Alrighty then... if you say so... Last question then,
if you and Jackie could fight aaaaanyone in the league, anyone, who would it be?"

"Hmmm good question, either that orange guy or that yellow girl or maybe
I'd fight that Cake person who keeps asking dum dum questions
and... forgetting... to put... the PINKY... UP!"

Penny Pummel - _{Interview 2}

"Penny, Jackie do you have a minute for uhh... tea? Again?"

"...huh...wha? Oh...Cake....tea? what?"

"Woah.... Hey, you alright there girlie? You look a little pale, you didn't fight tonight, have you eaten?"

"I'M FINE! Everything is fine I just..."
"What do you want?"

"Here, let's get you some water."

"Let me just turn the recorder off..."

Penny Pummel - _{Interview 3}

"Penny? Hey... Why don't you come out from under the stairs?"

"No. We're good here. We have snacks."
_{The dish of cookies near her was barely touched,
and likely had not been touched for over a bell.}

"Doooo you want to have a little chat with your old friend Cake?
You look pretty beat up over that match."

"NO! No...Miss Dema says you ask bad questions...
And I can't be a bad girl... Not anymore... Not to her.... So go away..."

"Are... are you sure? We don't have to tell Miss Dema..."

"I SAID GO AWAY!"
_{The dish of cookies was promptly thrown at me.}

"...Alright, I'll be here."

The Orange Coeurl - _{Interview 2}

"Mister Coeurl, Mister Coeurl, remember me? Kay Fabe of the Eorzean Inquirer,
do you have a moment to talk about the first show of the season?"

"Oh, Kay! Hey. Yeah. Come on back to my office, you want something to drink?"
^{The Coeurl gestured at the bun as he headed towards the back rooms.}

"You do have a nice office... Thank you! Well- Oh new chairs?
Sorry, back on track. This was an exciting debut show,
I didn't expect to see you there tonight, that was a treat!
How are you feeling about everything?"

"Thanks, and yeah, I just got them in about a week ago."
^{He reached into the icebox and pulled out a set of NSP Cola's, passing one across to me.}
"It was an exciting night, yeah? I wasn't originally planning on getting
in the ring when the season kicked off, but I couldn't refuse a good challenge.
I'm pretty stoked, y'know?"

"You don't think it's a little unfair to have yourself,
The Orange Coeurl entering into the ring? This is your show!
But other than that, how can you risk looking the league to that... That villain?"

"Unfair? I'm startin' to think ya didn't watch that match too closely, y'know?
Rey nearly had me a few times there. It may be my show,
but I can't just sit back and coast. We picked up a whole lotta skilled folks."
^{He paused and opened his drink,}
"She thinks she's got the edge, yeah? But I got myself a plan too."

"My contract with the CRW depends on keeping you happy, course I saw it..."
"That you certainly do! And I think I see a few familiar names on that
list of yours there- A familiar monster as well...
I highly doubt she reads these, so can you tell my readers of this plan you have?"

"I heard that, y'know."
"Oh yeah, you got a look at the roster, didn'tcha?"
^{He chuckled and then flashed a little grin,}
"Can't go revealing all my secrets, yeah? Gotta build some excitement!"
^{A brief laugh followed before he leaned forward,}
"Let's just say she aint the only one with an ace or two up her sleeve."

"Please don't tell my boss..."
"I did! It was sent over for promotional uses, but I can't reveal anything
until their official debut... Shame about the secrets,
but I can respect the hustle, wouldn't be much of a journalist
if I couldn't keep anonymity... Not even a little hint?"

"I wont."
"Oh yeah, we did do that, didn't we?"
^{He gave a shrug and then smiled,}
"Mmm... Aight. Aight. So. You got that roster.
I made sure I got some folks in the right places, the right shows. Hedgin' my bets."