Author's Note:

Well, well. Here we are again. First things first, I would like to send out my thoughts and condolences to the family of William Moody, also known as Percy Pringle, and more famously known as Paul Bearer. He was a key integral part of The Undertaker's ride to stardom, and was one of the most memorable characters and managers of all time. He is one of those figures from my childhood that I will sorely miss. Rest in Peace, Mr. Moody.

Now, in relation to that, I absolutely LOVE what CM Punk has done in the past couple of weeks. And not to sound morbid or disrespectful of any sort, but Paul Bearer dying could not have come at a better time. Now, it gives people a reason to want to see Taker vs. Punk, because they want to see that fucking asshole heel (Punk) get whats coming to him for desecrating Paul Bearer's memory. Fuck Rock vs. Cena, the match I can't wait for now at WrestleMania is The Undertaker vs. CM Punk.

Also, this past RAW was pretty decent, in terms of officially setting up the card for Mania. We now know that HHH/Lesnar 2 will be No Holds Barred, with The Game's career on the line. We also know that Ryback will be facing Mark Henry, and that Team Hell No will defending the Tag Belts against Dolph Ziggler and Big E Langston. Hey, as long as we get to see AJ being involved at a WrestleMania in her hometown, I'm fine with that. BTW, how cool was it to see her skipping again? Oh, how I missed that. :)

After a lagging couple of weeks, I was reinvigorated to see ADR/Swagger again after what he did to Poor Ricardo! :( Ricardo's epic selling on that Ankle Lock makes me want to see that match even more now. I salute you, Mr. Rodriguez.

Also, Rock/Cena, blah, blah, blah, same video package as last week, pointless promo from Cena, The Rock not showing up (AGAIN). What else is new? #SameOldCrap #TwiceInALifetime

So, without further ado, here is the brand new chapter of Love, Honor & Glory! :D

Love, Honor & Glory

Part IV

Chapter 3 - Dawn of a new Era

Monday Night RAW - That same night

Inside the arena

The crowd was hot and heavy as they were ready in anticipation for the superstars for the WWE to put on a show as they invaded the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Fresh off an exciting-as well as shocking-Royal Rumble, one thing was definitely weighing down on every fan's mind: what would CM Punk do now after turning back the nearly-unstoppable challenger that was The Rock? And what would be next after checking off a huge name and accomplishment off his list?

To open the show, fans saw the stagehands preparing the ring with a red carpet and putting some covered special items in the ring as Justin Roberts stood in the center, mic in hand, ready to begin.

"Ladies and gentlemen," he began. "Please welcome to the ring at this time... Paul Heyman!"

Upon the mere utterance of his name, the rotund New York native walked out from behind the curtain with a snide wide-splitting grin on his face that could rival the Cheshire cat. Many of the members of the WWE Universe immediately stood up and started to boo and jeer at the revolutionary visionary and creator of the defunct ECW walking out to the ring. Heyman truly made it easy for the WWE fans to hate him with an immense passion. Not wasting any time, Heyman grabbed the mic from Justin upon entering the ring, and began his speech.

"Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Paul Heyman." He paused for a brief moment, basking in the glow of the negative reaction that was being spewed at him by the Vegas crowd. He continued. "Tonight, I stand before you in the best of moods. Why? Well, because history has been made, and it continues to be made each and every single passing day. Now, for those of you who may have missed it-and really, shame on you if you did so-last night, your reigning and defending WWE Champion CM Punk put his title on the line against a man many of you would argue as quite possibly the greatest of all time... The Rock."

The crowd immediately exploded into cheers at the mere mention of The Great One, sporadically dissolving into loud and clear chants of "ROCKY! ROCKY! ROCKY!" Heyman simply ignored the chanting and continued on with his monologue.

"Not only did he defend his title against The Rock, but he did so in a dominant... convincing... and emphatic fashion!" The boos began to intensify at Heyman's hyperbolic bravado, but that only made him laugh smugly. "Why are you booing? Why, because CM Punk beat your beloved hero, just like he's done to your other beloved heroes, such as John Cena and Ryback? Or is it the fact, that CM Punk destroyed The Rock on his own, with no outside interference of any sort?"

Heyman was reveling in the fans' discontent, he almost wondered if this was real life.

"Don't you see? CM Punk didn't need any help. There were no blatantly biased referees or renegade rebel groups this time, simply mano y mano; one man against another man, and the better man, CM Punk, prevailed!" Heyman chuckled as he took in the sight of angry fans, especially ones on the young children's faces.

"There are no heroes to save you now! No one to stop this unstoppable reign! And rest assured, I promise to all of you in attendance tonight, and to all the viewers watching on their television screens, that CM Punk will hold this WWE Championship until the very day he breaks Bruno Sammartino's legendary record of 2,803 days. He is already on day number 435, and it will only continue to grow."

Heyman paused again, before looking up to the ramp. "And now, ladies and gentlemen, stand up, get up on your feet right now, show some respect, and give a warm welcome and round of victory of applause to my friend, student, and client... your reigning, defending, WWE Champion... the Best. Wrestler. In the World... C...M... PUNK!"

The sound of static immediately filtered through the area, followed soon thereafter by repeating strums of an electric guitar. As "Cult of Personality" played, out from behind the curtains stepped the figure of a man who was far and above the proverbial mountain top of the WWE: CM Punk. With the championship title tucked comfortably around his waist, Punk made his way to the stage, kneeling in position, checking his wrist as if it had a watch, and shouting out his well-known (albeit "borrowed") catchphrase: "IT'S CLOBBERING TIME!" and made his way down the ramp and to the ring.

As he stood atop the top rope, hoisting his title high up in the air, he took in many sights of his apparel that appeared in spurts throughout the crowd. Whether it be his bright yellow "GTS" T-Shirt, or his simple white "Knees 2 Faces" shirt, a clever mocking and parodying version of Rock's "Boots 2 Asses" motto. Even more so, the type of reaction the crowd was giving him was evenly split, with a splatter of boos more prevalent than cheers.

You could almost say he was getting a Cena-esque type of reaction, if you listened to the opposing chants that can be heard throughout the whole place. Triumphant yells of "CM Punk!" "CM Punk!" were quickly rivaled by dismayed shouts of "CM Sucks!" "CM Sucks!"

Punk only flashed a devilish grin as he grabbed his microphone from the timekeeper.

"435. Let that number sink in for just a moment," Punk paused before continuing. "That's how long I've been WWE Champion." He pointed to his belt. "That's how long that my name has been associated with some of the all-time greats that have earned that sacred distinction. Guys like Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, The Undertaker, Triple H, The Big Show, Mick Foley, Randy Orton, Edge."

As his constant naming off of past WWE Champions continued he then stopped, then carefully serenaded the last three names he said, which were sure to produce a great reaction from the crowd.

"Even men like... Stone Cold Steve Austin... The Rock... and John Cena. Do you know what these men all have in common? They've all been WWE Champion. Do you know what else they also have in common? The fact that none of them have had as long a single reign as WWE Champion as I have! I have taken on all comers, all challengers, all obstacles, and time after time, again and again, I have defeated them all, proving my worth and my merit. Proving... why I'm the Best in the World."

Heyman smugly smirked as Punk continued. "And in the midst of reminiscing on past champions and past reigns, it got thinking of something. As you can all see and are aware of, we are currently in an era that is different than the one of yesterday's past. That is the constant cycle that has perpetuated itself throughout the history of this business. And over the course of said history, certain men have become synonymous with certain eras. Hulk Hogan helped usher in the Golden Era in the 1980s, Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels showcased the New Generation Era of the mid-90s. The Rock and Austin helped push the Attitude Era to unseen heights in the late-90s. Then a few years later, and Paul, I know you're gonna love this one, a guy by the name of Brock Lesnar was a force to be reckoned with in the Ruthless Aggression Era."

After that brief soliloquy on the main era associated with Pro Wrestling's history, Punk felt remiss if he didn't give at least one superstar credit where credit was due. "Even I have to admit that John Cena became a star in that era and helped rise to the top in 2005, beginning a new era of his own. Unfortunately, that era is something decadent and revolting to look upon; an age of shameful shilling for Social Media, outright mistreatment of certain divisions throughout this company, and even worse: the young up and coming guys and girls not getting their just due, not being rewarded for all their hard work and sacrifice with a chance or opportunity to take their skills and popularity to the next level. All in the meanwhile, the same old tired and true guys, and the same old boring, bland, useless crap, has manifested itself into the "era" that we bear witness to today."

Even though a certain portion of fans thought he was an egotistical asshole and a pompous douche-bag, even they had to agree with what Punk was saying, his words once more a purveyor of truth and enlightenment that was rarely seen in today's watered down product.

"Well, worry no more. I say that era is over! We are now in a new era: an era of respect, an era of prestige... and an era that is Straight Edge. We are living in the era of Punk!" Heyman clapped while Punk paced feverishly across the ring. "Which leads me to believe that this era needs a symbol. A symbol that serves as a daily reminder of the measures being taken to attempt to restore proper honor to this business. Of course, I am speaking of this championship title," he stated while hoisting the 12 pounds of gold high into the air.

"This title has had it's status constantly be demoted and be downgraded for years now, mainly because of how it looks. I mean, look at it: it looks like some cheap novelty part you would see being put into some of the cars on 'Pimp My Ride'."

That reference managed to harp a few chuckles from the audience, but Punk went about his speech. He was in no mood for jokes tonight. "In the era that we now live in, this title should not only be worn by somebody people should respect, but also look like it is respected itself, like it was back in the day. Which means, it's time to put this toy belt out of its misery."

Punk hoisted the WWE spinner belt in the air one last time, before handing it over to a stagehand. "Here, take this outdated piece of bling-bling and sell it on Ebay," Punk said with a snark tone. With that out of the way, he made his way over to a showcase plastic case, which was covered by a black cloth.

"Now... everyone, feast your eyes on the new symbol of respect!"

Punk lifted up the cloth, and it revealed a belt, a belt that had caused surprised reactions to the shock of many. It was the belt fans thought they would never see used again in the WWE...

"For those of you who are ages 15 and under, and don't have a damn clue what this is, this ladies and gentlemen, is the Winged Eagle Championship. It is a title that for 10 years, was worn by many legends such as "The Macho Man" Randy Savage, The Ultimate Warrior, Yokozuna, Bret Hart, and Shawn Michaels."

Again, the fans gave a little cheer at the mentioning of all those past legends of this fine profession. Punk continued.

"And it wasn't so much the titleholder that made it special; it was the look. This title was the true symbol of what being a Professional Wrestler meant to everyone on the roster, and it certainly looks better than that shiny trinket turd that has been paraded out here for the past 8 years. But more than anything, this specific title design holds the most prestige than any other belt in the history of the WWE, and therefore, I am hereby introducing it back into the WWE as the official WWE Championship. This title belongs around the waist of someone who radiates prestige, and there's no one more prestigious... than me," he finished.

"I am CM Punk, I am the WWE Champion, and I am, without any sort of imagination, unequivocally, undoubtedly, unquestionably and undisputedly... the Best... in the Woooorld!"

Heyman took the classic belt carefully out of the glass plating and clipped it around the champion's waist. Punk postured in his signature Straight Edge pose as his music began to play once again, only this time confetti and balloons-Yes! Someone brought the balloons this time!-began to rain down everywhere throughout the arena, while Punk only smirked. He was here to stay, or so he thought.

The familiar ominous words of "No Chance..." was suddenly heard, signifying the arrival of the Chairman of the Board, and CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment himself, Vincent Kennedy McMahon. The reaction to Vince sudden and surprising appearance was near deafening and exuberantly positive, making it one of the largest pops of the young night so far.

Punk was quick to respond first. "What the hell are you doing here, Vince? Shouldn't your senile ass be in a retirement home someplace, where you belong?" Vince only shook his head and smirked. "Relax, Punk. I'm not here to cause trouble or rain on your parade. In fact, I have some urgent news that I feel I need to discuss with you, Mr. Heyman, and the rest of the WWE Universe out here." The fans cheered at that remark.

"Unfortunately, it has come to my attention that RAW Managing Supervisor Vickie Guerrero is out this week with a cold. So, after a brief telephone conference meeting with the Board of Directors, we all agreed that in everyone's best interest, the person that will be in charge for the evening will be... me."

As the crowd roared in approval at that announcement, Punk was seething outwardly. But before he could go on a verbal tirade, Vince continued on. "So, Mr. Punk, first things first, allow me to congratulate you on your magnificent accomplishment last night at the Royal Rumble. Beating The Rock is an impressive task, so even I must say, job well done, sir."

Punk felt a self-satisfied smile come over himself as Vince was giving him kudos, when in reality, he knew deep down how much it was hurting that old bastard's sense of pride to say those things. However, what would then occur in the next few moments, would not leave Punk as a happy camper.

"Now, in addition to offering you congratulations on your victory, I feel I should reward you with something, since you felt the need to constantly mention that in your usual delusional rant, badgering the audience's ears with excessive whining." Punk didn't take too kind to what Vince had just said, but it would be nothing in comparison to how he would react to this.

"Since you're a fighting champion, I'm sure you'll be happy about your next task," Vince said, smiling that devious Mr. McMahon smile that Punk, as well as many others knew all too well.

"What the hell are you talking about?" Punk demanded to know.

"Well, Punk, it has come to my attention that next month's pay-per-view is the Elimination Chamber event, and that has just given me a great idea for what the main event will be!"

Punk eyed the Chairman suspiciously. What the hell was he getting at?

"Yes, that's right. Because, in the main event of the evening, you, CM Punk, will be defending the WWE Championship... inside the Elimination Chamber itself." Punk shook his head angrily as the crowd burst in wild cheers. "No. No, that's a stupid idea! I don't believe you! Now I see why you were relieved of your duties in the first place; you have completely lost it, you decrepit old crackpot!" Punk yelled.

"SHUT UP!" Vince's rough graveled voice commanded, a well known McMahon phrasing, which silenced Punk and sent the crowd into a near frenzy. After a brief moment, he calmed himself down and carried on.

"Now, then. As I was saying, CM Punk will be defending his WWE Championship at Elimination Chamber, inside the chamber itself. The question is: who will you be facing?"

Vince paused briefly, giving the fans a moment to voice their opinions and suggestions on who Punk should have to face inside the demonic structure. Once that moment passed, he raised his hand up, asking for the people to quiet down.

"Alright, then," he started. "These will be the participants that will challenge CM Punk for the WWE Championship inside the Elimination Chamber in 3 weeks. They will consist of the following five men: First up, the WWE Tag Team Champions, the duo of Kane and Daniel Bryan, Team Hell No!" The crowd happily approved at that choice.

"The next combatant will be... the now former Mr. Money in the Bank, The Show Off, Dolph Ziggler!" While the younger portion of the audience booed that selection, the older demographic gave a smatter applause in appreciation, satisfied that a guy like Dolph was getting a chance like this.

"The next challenger that will step inside that evil chamber, is a man you've gotten to know quite well since the fall, Punk. He is a man that, if not for certain coincidental actions, may very well be the WWE Champion right now." The fans immediately sensed what Vince was about to say, and immediately broke out into vicarious chants of "FEED ME MORE! FEED ME MORE! FEED ME MORE!"

"You heard the fans, Punk; that man will be... RYBACK!" Vince emphatically shouted, which confirmed the crowd's hopes, and made Punk nearly boil over in anger. But the Chairman wasn't quite done yet; he still had one more name to announce.

And last, but certainly not least... is none other than... The Most Electrifying Man in all of Entertainment, The Great One, The People's Champ, THE ROCK!" Upon hearing the name of the final participant being announced as none other than The Brahma Bull, the building erupted in a mammoth way, cheering madly with glee. To contrast that entirely, Punk himself was not pleased. At all.

"You can't do this! You can't do this to me! Do you know who I am?! Do you?! I am the WWE Champion, I am the Best in the World, and I do not deserve this!" he venomously spat.

"Mr. Punk, if I were you, I would not spend my time moaning and complaining," Vince cut in. "I would spend that time training and preparing, because in three short weeks, your reign as WWE Champion may very well be... eliminated."

Backstage

Backstage, AJ Lee sat alone in a chair as she watched the announcement that was being made by Vince. It was definitely an interesting match that was made, but AJ couldn't help but feel that the match was a bit unfair to Punk. It would be yet another match where the odds were stacked against the champion, where he had to once again, battle his top and toughest foes, this time in Satan's Prison, the Elimination Chamber.

She even twisted her face at the fact that her now ex-boyfriend Dolph Ziggler was somehow in the Chamber match. Wonderful, she thought. Just wonderful. She continued her thought process until she felt a firm hand on her shoulder.

"You okay?" AJ turned around and saw the slight worry in the face and jumped back just a bit. She was face to face with the 2013 Royal Rumble winner, and former personal love interest, John Cena.

"John? Wh-what are you doing here?" she asked, still surprised.

John shrugged. "I was coming to get my bag I left behind, and I just saw you here."

"Then why are you even talking to me?" she pondered aloud.

"I don't hate you, you know. Things may not have worked out the way you hoped for us, but I still count you as a friend."

AJ nodded. She was glad to have at least one friend back. "I was just thinking about the Chamber match." John, as if being a psychic, picked up immediately on what she was thinking. "Seems like an old flame feels like it's being reignited with one of those men in the Chamber, I'm guessing?" AJ gasped at Cena's deductions. "How did you-"

"How did I know? Well, when you've been in the business as long as I've been, you learn a thing or two about relationships and how one may miss another due to their body language. All I can say for you AJ, is just be careful, okay? And stay away from Ziggler," John said before leaving.

AJ sat once more, pondering not just what Cena said, but also her feelings about Punk. Could those same feelings be coming back?

Time would only tell...

Author's Note:

Next time on Love, Honor & Glory...

As Elimination Chamber draws near, paths are forged, conflicts are presented, and old feelings continue to blossom even more.

Now, before I leave you all, allow me to wish a Happy Birthday to everyone's favorite Crazy Chick, April Jeanette Mendez, whom you may know as AJ Lee. But you already knew that... *ADR wink*

She has had a magnificent rise to the top over the past year, and has become the most recognizable and over Diva in years, and through it all, through her not so great childhood dealing with poverty, to the hard road through the Indy circuit, to finally arriving in WWE, and having the time of her life.

I wish you the best on this most happy of days, AJ, and I can't wait to see what else is in store for you in 2013! Divas Champion, perhaps? We can only hope.

So ta-ta for now, folks, and I'll catch ya next time!

#RIPPaulBearer

#HappyBirthdayAJ

#PunkleeForever

#PunkleeNation