The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in a moment of comfort, but where he stands in time at times of controversy and challenge. --Martin Luther King, Jr. on what it means to be a leader.

People have their opinions on what a leader truly is, some believe that a leader can't be that because he(or she) would do nothing more than enslave the people and conform them to the way they want things to be seen. That is not entirely true, some leaders often try to set good examples for their people and often go by the lead by example credo. Sure, you have leaders who have failed the people on numerous occasions; Adolf Hitler and George W. Bush are great examples of that. As Noah Peter once said; "Rely on your own strength of body and soul. Take for your own star self-reliance, faith, honesty and industry. Don't take much advice---keep at the helm and steer your own ship, and remember that the great art of commanding is to take a fair share of the work. Fire above the mark that you intend to hit. Energy, invincible determination with the right motive, are the levers that move the world." No words hold more true than that there. Generally in the world of professional wrestling, everyone looks to assume the position as World/Undisputed Champion because they want the glory, probably the hefty paycheck, the groupies that no doubt come along with becoming the "top dog". It can't be denied that the first reign that one has will quite possibly boast them and stroke their ego making them believe they are more than meets the eye in some cases. Now...it has a different meaning for one man and that man is Ryan Payne. Throughout the years of professional wrestling he's been known as one of the most arrogant, selfish, cold hearted individuals. From his days as the Ladies Man, The Golden God, The Messiah Of Pain, to his latest run as The Villain. He's been a perfect example of what has been mentioned beforehand but now he stands for something more. No, let's not go the corny route and say that he stands for truth and justice, he isn't Captain Planet, he's not trying to keep the earth clean. What he is going to do is look at this Championship opportunity a bit differently. It's going to be someone assuming the role of leadership for WGEF, and when you think about it; that's basically what the main Champion is supposed to be: a leader.

"...I believe that John Quincy Adams said it best. If your actions can inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then you..are indeed a leader. Do I believe that I can help everyone conform in WGEF? Not by any means but if I can help one person, that can make a difference. I'm not going to sugar coat anything and try to sound like some sort of politician here. You pretty much have a choice between four leaders here; myself, Drew Stevenson, Phoenix Winterborn and Deacon Havok. Which one do you think could be the most successful? Which of us would make a bigger impact for the business and for the company as the leader? That's the question you need to ask yourself." --Ryan Payne; taken from his street interview that will be displayed later on.

The question once again comes up, can one man make a difference? Some believe that the business will never return to what it once was and has given up. They've accepted it for what it is and to Ryan Payne, that's like accepting defeat. Something he has never done and something he will never do. He will keep fighting with every fiber of his being, he will give you every drop of sweat, every ounce of blood and every amount of energy that he has within his body. In order to defeat Ryan Payne, you might as well be ready to kill him because that's pretty much what it would take to put down a man like that. Look at the match with Kevin Sane, just when it seems that you have him beaten and you think you're in the drivers seat; he will surprise you and put you away. With Whatever It Takes being the last pay-per-view event of the MSN Circuit for WGEF, Ryan solely believes that everyone on the card needs to seriously bring their "A" game. To him, this event is looking to be the be-all, end-all event. One of which that will keep talking for years and years to come. With a card like the one that has been booked, there is no reason why this shouldn't be a smashing success. No reason why it shouldn't be the best pay-per-view event of the year and not just in WGEF but on the entire circuit.

Even if everyone else on the roster didn't see it the way Ryan did, he was going to carry on as he did best because he was preparing himself to assume the role of Leader. Ryan's already let it be known that he plans on stealing the show, he plans on leaving people something to talk about; whether it be negative or positive. Chances are, it will be positive, but to each their own. Never know when you'll have a critic in the audience and what is a critic, you ask? Well, it's someone who can't do what you do so they try to tear into your shit and make you look cheap. So, what was next for Ryan? Well, see...he had one final thing to do in the States(United States) before he went over to Italy. He had talked it over with WGEF management and he was given the green light to bring back his special talk show; aptly known as Destiny's Atrium. This would be different from the others though, generally he'd have a guest that was from the business. On previous shows, he's had Tara Wilson and Phoenix, this time however, there wasn't going to be one guest...not even two, or three. I'm sure you're wondering where exactly I'm going with this right? Well, you're about to be introduced to Destiny's Atrium, the street edition where the fans...the people are the guests. They will have the opportunity to say what's on their mind and even ask Ryan a question if they want. It doesn't get no better than this, so let's not waste anymore time. Enjoy the show:

The WGEF camera's opened up with a shot of Ryan Payne sitting inside his car, he looked toward the camera with his glasses on, before removing them. "Well, for those that don't know about this little thing. Whenever I feel like doing it, this is a special show I like to call 'Destiny's Atrium'. It's a forum where things are said, getting points across and get the tough questions answered. Generally, I usually have a co-worker of mine as my guest but in this case I decided to do things a bit differently. This time, I'm taking my show on the streets of Chicago. Today is my last day in the United States before heading out to Milan, Italy for the big event where I will challenge for the WGEF Undisputed Championship along with three other individuals. I'm going to give people a chance to say whatever is on their mind and even ask a question if they desire it. I warn you, it might be a little inappropriate at times and have language not suitable for all members of the family. So, having said that, let's begin this journey. Come on, camera man." Ryan said as he opened the door to his car stepping out, the camera man got out of the car and Ryan began walking and someone across the street spotted him.

"Ryan Payne!" The kid shouted out, Ryan glanced over acknowledging him and waved him over. He did so and Ryan extended his hand to him shaking his hand.

"I'd like to welcome you onto Destiny's Atrium, what's your name kid?" Ryan asked

"Zack." He responded.

Ryan nodded. "Alright, Zack. Well, how long have you been a fan of professional wrestling?"

"Three years now." He answered

"And in that time, who has been your favorite wrestler?" Ryan asked

"Truth be told, it's always been between you and Kevin Sane." He answered. "Hey, can I ask you a question?"

"Sure, what's on your mind?"

"Were you really married to two women at the same time?"

Ryan chuckled a bit. "Yes, yes I was. Wasn't exactly the smartest thing I've done in my life but I don't regret it either, it's been part of the process to get me where I am today." Ryan stated. "So, have you been watching WGEF?"

"I actually just started when I heard you were wrestling there. I saw your match with Kevin last week, that was bad ass. Like seriously, the way you nailed that Painkiller from the top of cage was sick!" Zack said with excitement, it's not everyday you get to see your favorite wrestler or whomever in the streets.

"Well, it sure did get me into this match, probably will be the most watched footage when looking for big, high impact match enders." Ryan said with a smile on his face. "So, Zack tell me...don't view the match this Sunday with myself, Drew, Deacon and Phoenix as for the Championship but see it as a fight for the leadership of WGEF. Honestly, tell me which one of us you'd like to see as the leader."

"Hmm..." Zack started off. "No, I'm kidding, it's not something that really needs to be thought about like that. Obvious choice would be you. Sure, Phoenix and Deacon have been in WGEF for a long time and you'd think they would have seniority. You just outshine them, tremendously. I mean no disrespect to them or their talents--or lack thereof-- but how do you bet against Ryan Payne? Seriously. No person can lead WGEF into the next generation other than you, it's like you say...we're in the Era Of Payne."

Ryan couldn't help but smile. "You've been paying very close attention to the Ryan Payne promos. You're right though Zack, we are in the Era Of Payne. And I'll do my best to walk out victorious this Sunday. Thank you for your time." Ryan said as he started walking down the street as he looked into the camera. "The first interview seemed to go rather nicely, this is uncensored, anything goes. Let's find some more people and get their thoughts on this Sunday's event and anything else on their mind." Ryan stated as he continued walking.

Go to the people. Learn with them, live with them, start with what they know. Build with what they have, the best of leaders when the job is done, when the task is accomplished, the people will say...we have done it ourselves. --Lao Tzu

"Excuse me, ma'am..." Ryan called out to a young lady walking, she turned around and looked at him. "Not sure if you watch professional wrestling or not, but I'm..."

"Ryan Payne." She said finishing his statement, she then looked and noticed the camera. "You're not like one of those porn stars now, are you? Go out and about on the street and look for women to prey on. Probably offer them money and flaunt your muscles and everything at them and get them to have sex with you."

"Umm...I'm pretty sure I'm not, maybe in my past life. I'm hosting my show called Destiny's Atrium and interviewing people like you, getting your thoughts on Sunday's event and I'm telling you this assuming you watch WGEF, if you don't...then I will look like a total idiot." He said with a smile

She smiled back at him. "Many things you are, but idiot is definitely not one of them." She said in a seductive tone. "But, yes..I actually do watch WGEF programming. I know all about your match and I know without a shadow of a doubt that you'll emerge victorious as you usually do when under these circumstances. And if I may mention something...I'm not too much a fan of this whole good guy act. When are you going to bring on vintage Payne? The one that people loved to hate. The one that got in everyone's face and disrespected the hell out of them and didn't show any remorse for any action that he had done?"

Ryan smiled. "I think those days are behind me. Besides, new Ryan seems to be getting over pretty well with people and I think he's needed to play the leader role for WGEF."

"Yeah, they're in desperate need of one since the last one walked out then went off and died." She replied

"Very true, although...I hadn't even heard of the guy and still don't really know him, only thing I know is his name and I barely know that. It's like Chris Mcdonald."

"McKenzie." She said correcting him.

"That too." Ryan added on. "But at any rate, the show continues...I thank you for your input."

"Call me!" She said as Ryan walked off.

Ryan smiled looking back then looked into the camera putting his hand to the side of his mouth. "I don't think a certain someone in my life would appreciate that." He continued walking and was approached by another guy.

"Ryan fuckin' Payne. What are you doing out here? Promoting new penis enlarger pills?"

"Come on dude, that was so four years ago. Let it go." Ryan said shaking his head, then smiled. "No, but seriously...Sunday, I face off against Phoenix Winterborn, Deacon Havok and Drew Stevenson for the Wo--"

"Whoa...Drew Stevenson?! As in the greatest technician to lace a pair of wrestling boots?"

"Uh..sure, if that's what you call him." Ryan responded. "I guess you know him pretty well huh?"

"Hell yeah, I've extensively studied his career and have been following it for years. That submission style of his is amazing, man."

"Guy...you don't like...have a man-crush on him or anything do you? I mean, you just about damn near orgasmed at the mere mention of his name."

"Are you calling me gay or something?"

"Oh no, it's not my place to judge." Ryan said then cleared his throat and turned back towards the camera giving a weird look, he then faced the guy. "Alright, so who do you think will walk out as the Champion Sunday?"

"Drew Stevenson, hands down."

"Why is that? If you don't mind me asking."

"Because, a) Drew is a former World Champion, b) he's one of the greatest mat-technical-submission wrestlers out there today and c) he's the frickin' Emerald! Need I say more?"

"Heh, you're right on one thing. Drew is a former Champion, thing about that is...I must have taken a nap for fifteen minutes and I swear I missed the whole thing." Ryan said, pissing the Stevenson fan off immensely. "See, I respect that you like Stevenson and all but don't count out the fact that his record with me involved is zero, zip, nada, goose egg. Now, I'm not saying he can't beat me but fact is in the past, he never did and now with the title on the line. You think he's going to walk over the other two men in the ring and myself? With all due respect, I must ask..are you retarded? No...don't answer it. I tried to avoid this rude stuff and I don't mean to come at you like this but the truth voids out this. Look over OCW, look back in N.E.W....anytime there's me against Drew Stevenson, whether it be tag match or one on one, I've always had his number and that is the one fact that alone should tell you that Stevenson doesn't have a hope or prayer this Sunday. Besides...WGEF needs a leader, not someone that comes and goes when he pleases." Ryan said. "I'm going to just walk away at this point now before I probably say something I regret." He stated then walked away and saw a crowd of people. "Oh this should be interesting." Ryan said as he looked into the camera, he then went and got on top of a car as a group of people started to crowd around him. "People, people, people..." He said getting their attention. "...the Era Of Payne has come to your side of town." As he said that, the crowd began to roar and Ryan put his hands up to try and calm them down. "Now...you all know that I've got a Championship match this Sunday against someone who proclaims himself to be a King Of Havok, against another that thinks he's a Main eventer and against another that is a certified legend like myself but not to the degree of which I am. I've been on my mission since I returned back to the squared circle and that mission has been to bring some prestige and honor back to the business as well as the certain degree of respect that has gone missing. You have arrogant little pissants like Spear..." The mere mention of his name makes the people groan, boo and put their thumbs down. "...yeah, I'm right there with you on that sentiment. You'd think the guy had taken some ex-lax or something because he's sure been running since he got his ass handed to him a while back. Surprised he didn't disappear the moment he learned I signed on, I tell you one thing. I can't respect someone who doesn't respect themselves and who doesn't respect the business and all things associated with it. For one man to say that the Championships are beneath him is pure bullshit. Prime example why the guy will never make it ahead in the business and a prime example why he isn't in the position I'm in today. I'm fighting for a chance to become the leader of WGEF, fighting for a chance to become the Undisputed Champion. Sure, I've held titles before and while that's all fine and dandy, this one will be different. This will be an honest Championship reign, no dirty tactics, no weaseling my way into it and no corrupting the system." Ryan said. "This is a new wave, I plan on walking in Sunday with my purpose, pride and respect I have from you guys and I plan on walking out with all that intact with a Championship over my shoulder and the title of being WGEF's leader. Deacon's got his success and that's fine, Drew's got his success and that's fine too, Phoenix has...his girlfriend? That works too. I've got my success but you know something, truthfully...come Sunday, all of that won't even matter. Past accomplishments, it'll be living in the now. It'll be whatever happens in that moment and I guarantee you all that in that moment, you'll see that what I've been saying is very true. Because you see, I believe that John Quincy Adams said it best. If your actions can inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then you..are indeed a leader. Do I believe that I can help everyone conform in WGEF? Not by any means, but if I can help one person, that can make a difference. I'm not going to sugar coat anything and try to sound like some sort of politician here. You pretty much have a choice between four leaders here; myself, Drew Stevenson, Phoenix Winterborn and Deacon Havok. Which one do you think could be the most successful? Which of us would make a bigger impact for the business and for the company as the leader? That's the question you need to ask yourselves." Ryan said upon the small audience that he was faced with and they applauded him cheering loudly. "See, some guys sweat it out trying to do things to be remembered, they try to think of things to do to get them in the spotlight and help them stay there. Whether it be them marrying the owner of the company or kissing ass to get ahead, it happens. Not with me though.." Ryan said shaking his head. "...everything that I have gotten in this business, I have earned. My tactics were questionable at best but nobody can ever say that I had help achieving the success I've obtained. The fact of the matter is that this Sunday, the Sisters Of Fate will favor me again. As respectful and humble as I am now, I can't help but believe that no matter how much luck I give to my opponents, it won't help them in the match with me. Some things are just unavoidable and unfortunately for Deke, Drew and Phoenix...losing to me is one of the unavoidable things they'll be faced with. Deny it all you like, and try as you might to alter it...I'm afraid it's Destiny and we all know how that works. I'll break it down to you like this, Drew Stevenson with the World title is like oil and water. Deacon and the World title together is like Michael Jackson and R.Kelly and finally, Phoenix Winterborn with the World title is like sandpaper and a bare ass." Ryan put his hands up and started laughing. "Fellas, don't take offense to this...I've always said don't hate me because I'm better than you, hate me because...why?" He put his hand to his ear letting the crowd finish it off for him.

"HE'LL ALWAYS BE BETTER THAN YOU!" They said in unison.

Ryan smirked. "Well, see. They know it and you boys should too. That's okay if you don't though, you'll learn it soon enough, I can assure you of that. So now, my fans and friends I must unfortunately bid you all farewell, WGEF's leader/Savior has to make his way to Italy. So, we bring Destiny's Atrium to a close letting it be known that I am the absolute best that there is in this business and the moment you stop striving to be the best..." Ryan paused allowing the fans to once again get interactive as he pointed at them.

"YOU MIGHT AS WELL BE DEAD!" They said finishing it off as Ryan then got down off the car and went into the crowd of die hard Ryan Payne fans, he did his usual pose and they did it with him ending the scene here.

Saying that Ryan was focused was a bit of an understatement at this point. No one brings the fire quite like he does, some try and they can't quite get it out there like Payne. The WGEF Championship would be decided Sunday in a Fatal Fourway match, first pinfall and/or submission will win the match and Championship for the respective individual. You better believe that Payne will be bringing everything to the match and with him doing so, I highly doubt there's a chance that anyone involved in the match would be able to contend with him.