FicWad

Percy was still riding the high from his victory over Tiger Ali Singh. The thrill of the win, the roar of the crowd, and the feeling of power it gave him were unlike anything he had ever experienced.

After the match, Percy used his winnings to upgrade his living situation, moving himself and Penelope into a much larger, more luxurious apartment in a better part of the city. The walls were freshly painted, the floors polished, and the view from the balcony overlooked a beautiful park. It was a far cry from the modest flat they had been living in before, and Penelope was thrilled with the change.

That evening, they had planned to go out for a celebratory dinner at a fancy restaurant—just the two of them. Percy was looking forward to spending some time with Penelope, away from the pressures of the ring and the relentless training. He had even picked out a special outfit, determined to make the evening memorable for both of them.

But as they were getting ready to leave, there was a knock at the door. Percy frowned, not expecting anyone. When he opened the door, he was surprised to see Lucius Malfoy standing there, his expression as cool and composed as ever.

"Lucius," Percy greeted, masking his surprise with a polite smile. "What brings you here?"

Lucius stepped inside without waiting for an invitation, his sharp eyes taking in the apartment. "I see you’ve put your winnings to good use, Ryker," Lucius remarked, using Percy’s ring name. "I like what you've done with the place."

Percy nodded, feeling a flicker of pride. "It’s a start."

Lucius turned to face him, a hint of excitement gleaming in his eyes.

"I’ve got great news for you, Ryker. The FMW officials were extremely impressed with your debut. They saw your quick, decisive win over Singh, and they want to give you an opportunity, an extraordinary opportunity."

Percy’s interest was piqued. "What kind of opportunity?"

"Masato Tanaka was scheduled to face the Intercontinental Champion, the Ultimo Dragon, in a week," Lucius explained, his voice smooth and measured. "But Tanaka has suffered an injury and won’t be able to compete. The officials want you to take his place. Imagine it, Ryker. Becoming a champion in only your second match. It’s an unprecedented opportunity."

Percy’s heart skipped a beat at the prospect. Becoming a champion so early in his career was more than he had ever dared to hope for. The idea of holding a title, of proving to the world that he was the best, was intoxicating. But as the excitement built in his chest, Penelope’s voice cut through his thoughts.

"One week?" she repeated, her tone filled with concern. "Percy, that’s nowhere near enough time to prepare for a match like this. You need more time."

Percy glanced at her, torn between the thrill of the opportunity and the reality of what it would mean. He knew Penelope was right.

Ultimo Dragon was a formidable opponent, one who had years of experience and skill on his side. But the chance to become a champion, to solidify his place in FMW, was too much to resist.

"Penelope," Percy began, trying to reassure her, "I know it’s a big challenge, but I can do this. I’m a fast learner, and I’ve already studied some of Ultimo’s matches. This is a chance I can’t pass up."

Penelope shook her head, worry etched across her face. "But Percy, it’s not just about knowing his moves. You need time to train, to prepare your body and mind for a match like this. I’m scared that you’re pushing yourself too hard, too fast."

Lucius, sensing Penelope’s hesitation, stepped forward, his tone persuasive.

"Penelope, you must understand that opportunities like this don’t come around often. This is Ryker’s chance to make history, to secure a future for both of you. He’s proven he can handle himself in the ring."

Percy looked between Penelope and Lucius, the decision weighing heavily on him. But in the end, the lure of the championship was too strong. He turned to Lucius, his expression resolute. "I’ll do it. I’ll take the match."

Lucius smiled, pleased with Percy’s decision. "Excellent choice, Ryker. I knew you’d see the potential in this."

Penelope sighed, her shoulders slumping in defeat. She knew Percy well enough to understand that once his mind was made up, there was no changing it. She reached out and took his hand, her voice soft and pleading.

"Just promise me you’ll be careful."

Percy squeezed her hand, guilt gnawing at him for disappointing her. "I promise, Penelope. I’ll be careful. And after I win, we’ll celebrate properly. I’ll make it up to you, I swear."

Penelope forced a smile, though her worry remained. Lucius, satisfied that everything was settled, took his leave, reminding Percy that training would need to begin immediately.

As the door closed behind Lucius, Percy turned to Penelope, seeing the concern in her eyes. He knew this wasn’t what she had wanted, but the pull of the championship was too strong to ignore. "I’m sorry, Penelope," he said softly. "I know this isn’t how we planned tonight, but this is important. It’s our future."

Penelope nodded, though the sadness in her eyes was unmistakable. "I understand, Percy. Just… promise me you’ll come back to me, no matter what."

"I will," Percy assured her, pulling her into a hug. "I promise."

But as he held her, his mind was already racing with thoughts of the match, of the championship, of the future he was determined to claim. The path he had chosen was a dangerous one, filled with risks and uncertainties, but for Percy, now Ryker Black, it was the only path that mattered.