VIDEO
The city streets are empty with the exception of a single ominous entity occupying a corner and clutching a cardboard sign. A foreboding message is scribed in crayon across its surface.
”The End is Nigh.”
A quick transition takes us from the transient to the tumultuous, cutting from the homeless man occupying the streets to the unmitigated violence that consumed the most recent edition of NewAge. We bear witness to the chilling rhetoric of new majority owner, Kloe Masters, who stands in the ring, microphone clutched in palm and steel chair situated beside her, a hooded sweat-shirt strewn across its surface. The very article of clothing that concealed Kloe Masters’ identity as she threaded a plot that ultimately culminated with stabbing her ex-husband, FORMER President, Orlando Cruze in his back to claim control of the company.
Kloe: GOTCHA.
This one declaration has the crowd unanimously expressing their rage. Kloe’s taunting phrase made in the ring on NewAge is proceeded by footage of transgressions spread over several weeks. We see her wearing the hoodie to hide her face as she bashes a chair across the spine of Kelcey Wallace. Across the spine of Kraven Wallace, and across the skull of Danny Darko. Clips that provide insight into Kloe’s twisted mind and warped instincts are short lived as the video transitions back into Masters within the ring, microphone palmed.
Kloe: For weeks I was ignored by the roster, but the whole world is hanging on my every word now, aren’t they? Everyone accused me of not being able to get anything done, but I sure did mastermind the greatest plot in wrestling history, didn’t I? A plot that allowed little old me to swoop in, take what I was owed, my ex-husband’s shares of the company, and by virtue take control of the IWC….
We get another flash back to the events Kloe is referencing. We find Orlando Cruze under duress as he stands in the ring with cellphone in hand, dialing a number and contacting the advisors he put in control of selling his shares. With the threat of Kloe Masters having Orlando’s brother torn in half backstage by the Sinistry’s Mika Kozlov, Orlando is forced to place a call that sells his diabolical ex wife, and the Sinistry, control of his federation. Now we’re back to the treacherous Kloe stood in the ring at NewAge, regaling the world with tales of her plans for the future.
Kloe: the Sinistry has controlling interest of the federation and at last it can move in the direction my FAMILY wishes. A direction where the Cruze name will be scrubbed from the IWC. A direction where defiance and unrule will no longer be tolerated. A direction where the Sinistry’s power and influence will go unchecked.
Kloe’s words are appropriately divided amidst clips of all those who defy the Sinistry suffering brutal and garish assaults. We see Danny Darko finding his body wracked with pain as it is given the death valley driver across a barricade by Sinistry World Champion Ba’al. We see Lukas Montgomery being knocked off the Cartel tron after the Sinistry’s Mika Kozlov nailed him with a Singapore Cane, causing her former Blacklist compatriot to take a plunge through two flaming tables.
All of this trauma inflicted upon the roster throughout NewAge weighs heavily on the mind of former President Orlando Cruze, who is forced to bear witness to the annihilation of his federation and of all those who dare challenge the will of the Sinistry. He is shown sitting in the backstage area viewing the destruction of his roster via monitor.
Taylor Chase: Don’t worry Orlando, I have a plan.
A smile is drawn across the face of the most rebellious roster member of them all. Taylor Chase, number one contender to Ba’al’s World Championship, makes a promise to her depressed husband, kneeling before him and vowing that the Sinistry’s reign of tyranny shall be dealt a deadly blow. A promise we see manifest when a limo arrives backstage, creating some unrest amongst the crowd and some speculation amongst the commentators. The unrest was warranted, for the person who occupied the limo emerges and reveals their identity as the legendary Broderick Chase, Taylor’s father and shrewdest of business men.
Taylor: I have a plan.
These words are repeated as Taylor engages her best friend, Kelcey Wallace backstage. We then transition to that very same Kelcey stepping into the ring alongside another victim of Kloe Masters, Kelcey’s brother Kraven. The two occupy the squared circle alongside the very woman who has savagely assaulted them in recent weeks with the use of a chair, Mrs. Masters.
Kelcey:….. you owe me an explanation, but I’m not coming out here for an explanation…I’m here to put you in your place.
Kloe: I thought you might say something like that.
The lights in the building dim and when they rise we find Kelcey and Kraven surrounded by the Sinistry, Ba’al at the forefront. They narrow in upon the Wallaces but the Sinistry find their hands stayed by the Chases. Taylor and Broderick make their way to the stage and have drawn Ba’al’s focus.
Broderick: I was brought here tonight because I know a little bit about wheeling and dealing.
Many of the Brod’s past career accomplishments are highlighted, including him standing in the ring with his daughter, as she raises the World Championship high overhead and unleashes a chant of “I DID IT.”
Broderick: I am a business man, and believe me I know my way around a contract, and I’ve been taking a very close look at the contract my daughter gave me a few days ago. The contract that was made up for Taylor’s world title shot at the EOTYS.
Taylor is smirking from ear to ear, Ba’al still looking on intrigued.
Broderick: See, it’s there in black and white, the one thing that Karen McBride has gotten right for once.
We cut briefly from Broderick’s announcement at NewAge, to Karen McBride’s announcement a few weeks earlier when the principle owner stood in the ring with the number one contender and told Chase that she was giving her the right to name whatever stipulation she wanted for her Championship bout with Ba’al. Back to Brod and Taylor standing on the stage on the most recent IWC show we go.
Broderick: It states that Taylor has the right to name ANY stipulation for her showdown with Ba’al, and the stipulation she has chosen…well, I’ll let my daughter announce that
Taylor: My little stipulation? Well Ba’al, if I win the World title match at the End of Year Special against you…then, my husband regains 50% of his ownership in the company.
Kloe is infuriated by this announcement, losing all semblance of control as she tosses a chair across the ring. Ba’al reacts differently, calling for the head of Broderick Chase. The Sinistry rush up the ramp and attempt to bring Ba’al the severed skull of Taylor’s papa, but Tay-Tay stands up for her daddy, fending off the Sinistry before eventually getting into the ring…..or more accurately being placed there by the Sinistry’s Red Rayne. Once inside the ring Ba’al sets Taylor up for a chair shot by Kloe, the very same chair shot that has felled so many who stood against Masters in the past. Kloe is about to take out another victim only to find her fist target, Kelcey, grabbing the chair out of her hands and preventing Taylor’s destruction. Ba’al is not so lucky, falling victim to a chair shot that could not be prevented, Broderick standing up for his daughter by cutting down the World Champion with a chair that leads to an attempted True Story. Tay is just about to deliver the GTS on Ba’al only to have Kloe drag Ba’al from the ring, the two standing on the outside mats, glaring into the ring where a triumphant Taylor proudly stands beside her best friend, Kelcey, and her father, Broderick.
BACKSTAGE
Distant screams are heard and a shaking camera frantically races towards the source.
Stagehand: SOMEBODY STOP THEM!
At last the camera stabilizes, centering on the floor of the backstage corridor, a floor now occupied by the body of Broderick Chase. A powerful blow has knocked the patriarch of the Chase family to the ground and busted his forehead as well. As blood trickles over the groggy eyes of the Brod, the man who put him in his perilous condition steps into his view. Ba’al emerges from the door the Broderick came crashing out of and now the SIN Champion stoops over his latest victim, father to the number one contender to his championship.
Ba’al: My good man, please wipe your brow before your daughter arrives to the building this evening…
A handkerchief is removed from Ba’al’s pocket and stuffed directly in the Brod’s mouth.
Ba’al: And do make it a point to stay OUT of my business.
Ba’al steps away from Chase, leaving Broderick desperately sucking air into his lungs and clinging to consciousness.
EDGE OF A REVOLUTION by Nickleback blares in the background as we transition to the opening video package for Riot. The screen is overwhelmed with a litany of shocking and violent images, highlighting the atmosphere of chaos cultivated by the IWC. There are clips of William Mason delivering the Perfect Driver, Abigail Lindsey and Katelyn Buehler waltzing hand in hand down the ramp, Mya Denton skipping around with the Queen of the Ring Championship, and all of this is just a prelude of the insanity yet to come. We get another dose of disorder upon witnessing Danny Darko driving his forehead into a locker, Marie Jones nailing Lindsey with a baseball bat, Alana Starr delivering the Five-Starr on Kathryn Pearson, Tina Valentine back dropping Cassidy Cage off a stage, and we round it out with Amanda Blayze attacking the GOOD Movement on the ramp. But we’re not through yet, because we reach the climax with footage of Taylor Chase driving a semi-truck THROUGH a limo, Orlando Cruze hanging above the ring mounted upon a cross, Mika Kozlov smiling with her glowing black eyes the camera’s focal point, Scott Cannon delivering the House Rules on Lethal Weapon, and finally Ba’al standing outside of the ring being pelted with garbage by the fans as he holds up the SIN Championship.
JESSICA LASIEWICZ VS. SELENA FROST
We forego the customary introductions by the commentators and jump directly into the in ring action. A streak of lighting launches from the rafters, strikes the turnbuckles and ignites them into flames while a tune provided by Zoegirl is playing through the PA system. Once the smoke from the flaming corners has rescinded, we find Jessica Lasiewicz seated in the middle of the ring, prepared for competition. Finally the commentators, Greyson Lovejoy and his puppet Sparkles, are heard from the announce table, cameras only briefly cut to the excited pair situated at ringside.
Greyson Lovejoy: We are LIVE from the Manhattan Center for the final Riot of 2014, and the final Riot before the End of the Year Special….
Sparkles: And good holy moly, things are already starting off hotter than Sienna Swann in a French maid uniform.
Greyson: At the very start of tonight’s telecast we witnessed the father of Taylor Chase being decimated at the hands of Ba’al.
Sparkles: All in retribution for the part the Brod played in securing that HUGE stipulation for the World Title match at the End of the Year Special.
Greyson: Indeed, thanks to the Brod we now know that if Taylor Chase is victorious in her pursuit of the World Title then Orlando Cruze will regain his 50% ownership of the IWC.
Sparkles: And if the assault on the Brod wasn’t enough to get you hooked, we’ve got some jail-bait booty in the ring right now.
Greyson: Jessica Lasiewicz, co-number one contender for Tina Valentine’s Queen of the Ring Championship occupying the ring in anticipation of her opponent, Selena Frost.
“YOU BETTER BELIEVE!”
“You Were Born For This” by Epic Score brings forth a falling of snow along the ramp, while purple-blue lights in the design of snowflakes stream across the arena. From the falling of white, from the back, out walks The Snow Queen, herself, Selena Frost. With a twirl within her “winter-wonderland”, Frost slowly strolls down the ramp, her platinum-white hair in a long-braid swishing this way and that. Sliding into the ring, the Winter Diamond is quickly on her feet, stepping into the center of the ring as all the snowflake-lights rush to the center of the ring to form a large blue-white snowflake-shaped light over Selena. Raising her arms, the Defier of Worlds looks up at the lights before they return to normal.
Greyson: A very appropriate paring here given the ‘unorthodox’ nature of both these athletes.
Sparkles: Yep, Lasiewicz embodies the darkness, and Selena embodies the….cold?
Greyson: Guess that’s accurate enough.
Sparkles: Sorry, just a little off my game at the moment considering what happened to the Brod at the start of the show.
Greyson: That attack on Taylor Chase’s father is still weighing heavy on my mind as well. But we’ve GOT to give these two ladies their due, because I’m sure they’re going to put on a fantastic bout here this evening.
’SIN’ Referee Alex Ingelson crouches in one of the corners, dark circles beneath his eyes and his once platinum blond locks rendered as black as those very circles. His pale, corpse like frame calls for the bell to start this match.
Sparkles: Good lord, what the fuck happened to Ingelson?
Greyson: Well on NewAge he revealed his affiliation with the Sinistry, alongside fellow referee Patrick Fitzpatrick, and obviously his association with that Sinistry group is having an effect on him both mentally and physically.
Sparkles: Get to a God damned tanning bed already Alex.
Greyson: Well in his own defense Alex is British, I’m pretty sure they’re incapable of getting a tan over there.
Selena is about to tan something, the hide of Lasiewicz as the two tie up in a collar elbow lock in the middle of the ring. The collar elbow leads to a quick transition, Selena slipping behind Lasiewicz and locking in a high angle hammerlock. But Jessica does not remain in this position for long, managing to drop to her knees and slip back through Selena’s legs. Frost tries to hold onto the arm of her opponent, bending over and reaching through her own thighs to keep a grasp upon Jessica’s wrist. Jessica now elevates that wrist into the air, driving Selena’s own hands into her taint and sending her flipping over as a result. Selena crashes onto her back and Lasiewicz now rushes into the ropes at Frost’s side, springing off the middle rope then twisting into a leg drop that connects….but wait…no Selena reaches up and catches the leg about to come down onto her throat. She then stands up and lifts Jessica’s leg into the air, attempting to transition into the Boston Crab.
The submission is just about to be locked in only to have Jessica roll over backwards right out of her opponent’s clutches. Jessica gets to her feet and staggers back into the ropes, ricocheting off then attempting to deliver a lariat only to have Selena duck, catch Jessica’s arm then tuck it around behind her back, applying another hammerlock.
Jessica’s arm is bent at an awkward angle before she attempts to bend her whole body at an awkward angle as well. Lasiewicz twists her body just enough to get her shoulders into Selena’s ribs. Jessica then falls to her knees and attempts to hit a fireman’s carry flip over. She gets to her knees, she gets Selena onto her shoulders, but Jessica can never flip her opponent to the canvas, because Selena catches both of her opponent’s arms with a crucifix and pulls her down to the ring. Not into a pin mind you, but into a position where Selena can stand and catch Jessica’s leg, attempting to lock the Morning Star in the Boston Crab.
The Number One Contender to the Queen of the Ring Title resists being placed in this hold, squirming back across the canvas and then reaching up to grab the ropes. Even though Jessica has reached the cables, Selena is not about to break the grasp on her leg. She tugs on it several times, prompting Jessica to reach up and grab the top cable, her body elevated into the air what with her legs still trapped in Selena’s clutches. Frost gives the legs a yank and pulls Jessica off the cables only to have her flip over backwards and land straight on her feet.
The acrobatic display is met with cheers from the crowd, but annoyance from Frost, who instantly takes hold of Jessica’s leg and attempts to take her down into the Boston Crab only to find the opposite foot of her opponent swinging into the side of Selena’s skull. The enzugari knocks Selena into the ropes and eventually crashing through them.
Greyson: Selena definitely bringing her A game into this match considering that she’s facing the number one contender for the Queen of the Ring Title, a championship Selena has designs on one day holding.
Sparkles: Yep, she made that pretty much obvious in that sit-down interview with Axl Evermore a couple weeks ago. Literally every other word out of her mouth was about the Queen of the Ring Title, at least when she wasn’t talking about how she yearns to snuggle with Sparkles.
Greyson: Your hearing is so deceptive.
The enzugari that Selena just withstood continues to plague her at ringside as she struggles to her feet just in time to look up and spot Lasiewicz rushing across the canvas with the intention of diving out of it. Selena drops down out of the way though and Jessica instead grabs the ropes she was about to lunge through and performs a version of the 619, swinging her legs around and bringing her feet back down to the canvas. She keeps hold of the top rope and waits for Selena to stand up at ringside before Jessica leaps into the air and swings her legs through the cables with both boots aimed at her opponent’s chest. Those boots do not connect and are instead caught. Selena reaches out and grabs Jessica’s legs, pulling them all the way through the cables and Jessica’s body all the way down to the mats. She then finds herself being rolled over to her stomach and being trapped in the Boston Leg Crab.
The amazing counter has the crowd lunging to their feet and cheering even if a submission outside of the ring will not net Selena a victory. Nonetheless she gets the hold locked in as tightly as possible, severely cramping Jessica’s leg. Even if a tap out wouldn’t count, Jessica still will not submit, instead she drags herself across the mats and towards the steps, pulling herself up them. She finally ends up back to back with Selena, who is still trying to hold onto Lasiewicz’s leg with the crab. Once they find their spines pressed together, Jessica reaches back, hooks her arms around Selena’s and then pushes off the steps with her foot. She flips right back and right over Selena, landing on her feet in front of a stunned Frost, who suddenly finds her head caught in a front chancery and her body being heaved into a reverse suplex onto the steel steps.
Frost’s ribs bounce off of the stairs and her body twists to the mats where it writhes in agony. She doesn’t get the chance to writhe for very long before her opponent closes in on her. The somewhat remorseless Jessica drags Selena along to her feet before depositing her in the ring. Amazingly Selena rises to her feet just as Jessica lunges to the apron, then lunges to the top rope, springing off into a big crossbody. She connects with Selena, driving the two down to the canvas into a crossbody. Somehow Selena turns the momentum of the crossbody to her advantage though, rolling over backwards and pushing Jessica onto her spine and at the same time taking Jessica by the leg. Jessica instantly finds herself being turned to her stomach where she’s trapped in the Boston Crab.
Greyson: Another sensational counter by Selena right into the Boston Crab.
Sparkles: She is pugnacious with that hold isn’t she?
Greyson: Every time Jessica builds momentum, she finds herself caught once again in the Boston Crab. How much longer can her leg tolerate this type of punishment?
We’re about to find out the answer to that question because Jessica is forcing herself up to her elbows and inching across them towards the ropes. Selena holds on tight, but perhaps not tight enough, because Jessica still reaches the ropes and reaches out to take them. Official Ingelson makes the ten count in a slow, methodical manner, almost delighting in the suffrage he sees from both athletes. Finally Selena breaks the hold and re-evaluates her strategy.
She steps towards Jessica, who employs the cables to reach her feet only to be on the cusp of having her legs taken out from under her. She’s grabbed around the neck by Selena, who is on the cusp of delivering her patented Cold-Snapmare. Selena drops forward into the rolling snapmare only to have Jessica block it by reaching back and hooking the top rope with the creases of her elbows. As a result it’s only Selena’s body that goes rolling across the canvas, ending up on her seat while Jessica ends up rushing into the ropes in front of her seated opponent. Jessica springs off the cables and then dives with her knee at Selena’s face, crushing it.
Selena is knocked flat across the ring and Jessica is dashing across it into the ropes, springing off the middle cable then twisting into a springboard leg drop upon Selena’s throat.
Selena just begins to gasp for air before Jessica threatens to knock what little oxygen remains from her opposition’s body. She pulls Selena up and into a double underhook, looking to deliver the Hot Shot. The Pedigree is right on the brink of being delivered before Selena suddenly spins around out of it and turns her back on Jessica in the process. She then reaches back and hooks an arm around Jessica’s neck, setting for the Cold-Snapmare. She is about to hit the rolling snapmare only to have Jessica counter, but not by hooking ropes, instead she does it by hooking arms. Jessica reaches out, hooks both of Selena’s arms and counters the attempt at the Cold-Snapmare into the Deformation. The Skull Crushing Finale drives Selena’s nose into the ring and leaves her twisting over to her spine, Lasiewicz crawling into the cover.
1
2
Selena kicks out of the first pinfall of the match.
Greyson: Selena getting her shoulder up here, in what has been her toughest challenge to date since joining the IWC. Before this bout with Lasiewicz, all of Selena’s victories have been very one sided submissions over the End Effect.
Sparkles: Yeah, and since Lasiewicz’s return she’s been absolutely dominant herself. She hasn’t faced a challenge like this either.
Greyson: Well it’s definitely preparing Lasiewicz for the hell she’ll endure trying to take the coveted Queen of the Ring Title from Tina Valentine’s waist at the End of the Year Special.
The Deformation may have ruined more than Selena’s face, it also may have crushed Selena’s chance of victory. She is plucked from the ring and now into position for the Bad Moon Rising. Lasiewicz just begins to nail her version of the spinning fisherman neck breaker but Selena twists right out of the move and swings herself right along into a huge forearm across Jessica’s mouth. Lasiewicz is staggered by the blow and then her ribs are crushed by the spinning back heel kick by Selena. Then Lasiewicz’s face is smashed by a big punt kick that has her standing up and staggering in reverse. Jessica tries to keep herself upright, but the potential of that happening are next to none when Selena is taking to the air and connecting with a spinning heel kick. The blow knocks Jessica to the canvas, but only momentarily. Lasiewicz struggles to her feet and then stumbles right along into the waiting boot of Frost. She puts her shoe to Jessica’s chin then takes Jessica by the wrist, Selena about to drop back into the Paydirt. Her momentum has apparently carried her to a major victory this evening, falling back into her rendition of the Eat Defeet only to have her attempt blocked. Jessica manages to get her fingers in between the boot and her chin, pushing down on Selena’s leg and causing Frost to crash into the canvas with nothing to show for her efforts. Lasiewicz then watches as Selena rolls over backwards to her elbows and knees then lunge up to her feet. Just as Selena stands up she finds her head caught and her leg hooked, Jessica driving her into the canvas via the Bad Moon Rising.
Greyson: Jessica at last catches Selena with that move but can she parlay the Bad Moon Rising into a victory, giving her definite momentum headed into that Queen of the Ring Title match at the End of the Year Special?
Sparkles: Most the time I’d be happy whenever a woman wins, because then they hop around in victory and things tend to start jiggling, but Jessica’s not got very much to jiggle.
After being slammed into the canvas Selena finds herself rendered unconscious, unable to stop Lasiewicz from attempting another pin.
1
2
In spite of having the leg hooked, Selena still manages to get her shoulder up. Lasiewicz should be unnerved, but she never misses a beat. She grabs Selena around the chin, drags her up to her feet and then goes for the Hot Shot once again. This time the move is countered into a fireman’s takedown. Selena twists her body just enough to wedge her shoulders to Jessica’s ribs and attempt to flip her over but this time it’s Jessica who counters this very move, only in a different fashion. Lasiewicz twists her body as she goes over, flipping out of the fireman’s taken down and landing on her feet as opposed to her seat. Lasiewicz then goes charging into the ropes, turning to ricochet from the cables only to suddenly find a title belt smacking her directly in the back of the head. The crowd is unanimous in their outrage at the sight of Tina Valentine standing on the apron behind Jessica and caving in the skull of the number one contender for the very title Jessica intends to challenge for. The Queen of Ring Title demolishes Jessica’s head and demolishes her chances of victory. Lasiewicz is sent stumbling forward as a result right into the waiting arm of Selena, who unintentionally had the official distracted. Frost reaches out and catches the addled and near unconscious Jessica around the neck, hitting the Cold-Snapmare which serves a fluid transition into the Ice Breaker. The Impaler DDT brings Lasiewicz down face first into the canvas. Selena then twists around into the pin.
Greyson: Tina Valentine…that disgusting young woman just smashed Jessica in the back of the head with the Queen of the Ring Title while the referee was out of position.
Sparkles: And it set up Selena for the Ice Breaker!
Tina drops from the apron with title over shoulder and grin across face. She watches along with the rest of the crowd as Selena slides into the cover on Lasiewicz, pinning her shoulders to the canvas.
1
2
Selena sluggishly rises to her feet, feeling the wear and tear of a very combative confrontation. She straightens her back and lifts her arms high above head but should have been using said arms to protect said head, because the Queen of the Ring Title belt comes crashing straight into the back of it. Tina topples Selena to the canvas and watches as she thrashes about on the ring.
Sparkles: Tina back and she just knocked Selena’s frosty ass out COLD….hehehehe, get the pun there.
Greyson: I get it and I still don’t find it funny.
Sparkles: You have no pulse, Lovejoy.
Greyson: If it wasn’t bad enough knocking Lasiewicz out with the belt now Tina KO’s Selena with the championship as well. What a despicable champion.
Sparkles: Tina’s taking out anyone who might be coming after her Queen of the Ring Championship, anyone.
Greyson: I take it the Duchess hasn’t forgotten how the Snow Queen assaulted her back at Upping the Ante.
Tina rubs salt in the wounds of the crowd, actually, she rubs just about every spice in the drawer in the faces of her injured opposition by lifting her championship overhead and laughing menacingly.
Greyson: Tina raising the stakes headed into that Triple Threat match for the Queen of the Ring Title at the End of the Year Special.
BACKSTAGE
The audio track of ”Edge of a Revolution” plays in the background as Broderick Chase, forehead lacerated and face stained by his blood, comes into view. He seems to be stomping down a corridor that ultimately leads straight to the ring. Greyson’s and Sparkles’ voices speak over the music playing in the background.
Greyson: The Brod is still here, and is still mobile.
Sparkles: And he’s bringing his Brodness towards the ring.
Greyson: Don’t do it Brod, don’t do what we’re all expecting you to do. Let this issue with Ba’al go.
Sparkles: The man is standing up for is daughter Lovejoy, his insanely HAWT daughter.
Greyson: Are we going to witness an explosion between Broderick Chase and Ba’al?
COMMERCIAL
VIDEO
A series of chaotic clips burst across the screen featuring Lukas Montgomery throwing Desmond Drake into the air and cracking him in the face with the roaring elbow as the midget makes his descent. We then see Brittany Lohan delivering the Final Solution and Amanda Blayze hitting a roundhouse kick to the skull of Scott Cannon. A voice-over speaks in the background, chiming in on all of the deranged images flashing upon the screen.
IWC PRESENTS THE SLAM OF THE WEEK
A Maxi Pad emblem is positioned in the bottom right corner of the screen, the advertisers properly highlighted along with the brutal chair shot that Broderick Chase delivered across the spine of Ba’al at NewAge. The World Champion finds his kidneys crushed when the Brod bludgeons him with the steel. The excited vocals of NewAge commentators, Hunter and Mackie, hype what just happened in the ring.
Hunter: MY GOD, THE BROD NAILS BA’AL WITH THE CHAIR!
Mackie: Is this guy nuts!?!
The video flashes to the Brod standing in the ring, glaring to the outside where Ba’al is stood, returning the beaming stare shot in his direction.
IN RING
There is quite the euphoric response from the fans as the intro track for the Brod plays over the PA system, leading to the arrival of Broderick Chase himself. The curtains split and Broderick makes his way through them before embarking down the ramp. Greyson Lovejoy and Sparkles speak up at ringside, reflecting on Broderick’s decent towards the ring.
Greyson: Don’t do it Brod. Don’t get in that ring. You’re daughter and Orlando aren’t here yet to have your back.
Sparkles: What do you think he’s going to do?
Greyson: Probably make the biggest mistake of his life.
The man who has amassed quite the heralded legacy and populated the planet with so many former and future World Champions, makes his way up the steps and into the ring. A microphone eventually finds its way into his hand and draws to his lips.
Broderick: You want to put your hands on the Brod, Ba’al….you wouldn’t be the first, there are thousands just itching to molest this bod.
A bod that the Brod shows off by tearing away his blood stained shirt and throwing it to the canvas, revealing his chiseled physique. Though he’s not showing off his six pack to fulfill the fantasies of the female fans, he’s doing so because he’s readying himself for a fight.
Broderick: If you want it that badly come on down that ramp, step into this ring and let’s get to it. I’ve stayed out of this issue between you and my daughter for too long, it’s time for a Daddy to do what a Daddy does best, watch out for his kin. And once we get started, Ba’al, YOU’RE the one who is going to need THIS.
The handkerchief that was shoved in the Brod’s mouth at the beginning of the night is now removed from his pocket and thrown across the ring. A rather gothic rendition of “Ring Around the Rosies” begins to filter through the PA system, the tunes inspiring Broderick to ready himself for a fight, clinching his knuckles and crouching as if prepared for a lunge. It doesn’t take long for a target to present itself, the curtains opening to accommodate the arrival of Ba’al, who moves through the curtains with Decay, Jaina Frost and Rachel Foxx emerging behind him. Foxx holds the SIN Championship on her husband’s behalf, considering Ba’al’s hands are already occupied by a microphone.
Ba’al: You yearn for even more physicality do you? Not a wise decision on your part, Mr. Chase.
Broderick: I don’t care what’s wise, I care about what’s right for my daughter.
Ba’al: If you truly believed that you never would have involved yourself in your daughter’s affairs, because now she will forever be haunted by the visual of what I do to you in the middle of that ring. I accept your challenge for a fight this evening, for if the Chase family will not join with my own, then I shall be forced to remove the patriarch of their clan.
Broderick: The only thing removed tonight, will by my shoe laces from between your ass cheeks bud.
Ba’al: Amusing. If not utterly preposterous. But you shall find little humor in the plight that befalls you this evening, when the two of us collide in a match of my choosing, a match made synonymous by my family…If we are to come to blows this evening, then it will be in the form of a CRUCIFIXION MATCH.
The Brod doesn’t even have to think about it for a second…hell…not even a milli-second.
Broderick: You’re on pal, but don’t delude yourself ParaNorman, there isn’t going to be a match, there’s going to be a slaughter.
Ba’al: Heh, for once you and I can agree on something.
BACKSTAGE
Tina: Two whores down, two more to go.
The vaunted Queen of the Ring Champion traverses a corridor that will eventually bring the Duchess to the squared circle. Her championship shimmers upon her shoulder and her eyes glimmer with delight. Yes, it seems hurting others fills Tina with such glee, and if that’s the case she’s about to be beyond gratified. Once again the commentators can be heard speculating upon the Duchess’ plans as she encroaches upon the ring.
Greyson: Now it looks like Tina Valentine is headed in our direction. Hasn’t the Queen of the Ring Champion done enough for one evening?
Sparkles: Well another of the woman who will challenge her for her title is still standing, so no.
Greyson: Tina no doubt coming to the ring on account of the fact that Amanda Blayze, the other number one contender for her championship, is scheduled to compete one on one with Jessica Wilde, and that match will be coming at you right after the commercial break.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
Before the break we witnessed an individual moving towards the ring, so it’s almost fitting that after the break we see someone walking away from it. SIN Champion Ba’al moves away from the guerilla position with Jaina, Decay and Rachel nipping at his heels. The Sinistry move further and further away from the ring, but are drawing closer to Kloe Masters.
Kloe: Interesting Kirian, veeeerry interesting.
The smile on Masters’ face is not a beacon guiding wayward vessels to shore, but a siren calling ships to a watery grave. She steps towards Ba’al clutching a clipboard in hand and finding herself nestled between Jessica Wilde and the enormous Executioner.
Ba’al: I have you intrigued do I?
Kloe: Of course. I have to admire your moxie and the brilliance of your challenge to Broderick Chase. He’s played precisely into our hands.
The clipboard in Masters’ palms is raised, but the documents pinned to it intentionally withheld from the camera.
Ba’al: My only regret is that Broderick’s daughter might not arrive in time to see the fate that befalls her father.
Kloe: It’s unfortunate that Taylor was scheduled to attend so many public appearances on the IWC’s behalf today.
Ba’al: It is, but someone had to be entrusted with the ribbon cutting duties at the newest Wal-Mart.
Both Ba’al and Masters produce despicable grins.
Kloe: I do know how to keep my employees busy, don’t I?
Ba’al: To be more accurate, you know how to keep certain employees from being a nuisance.
Kloe: That I do…That I do. And speaking of nuisances, perhaps your time is better served preparing for your Crucifixion Match with Broderick Chase.
Ba’al: Agreed.
Ba’al is followed by the Sinistry as the group pass by Masters, leaving Kloe to focus on another of her associates, the bearer of the Extraordinary Title, Jessica Wilde, who stands beside her massive protector, Executioner.
Kloe: I believe the two of you have other business to attend to as well.
Wilde: Oh-oh yes. But before I compete against Amanda Blayze, I just want to thank you for this opportunity.
Kloe: It’s a fitting reward for your unshakeable faith in the Sinistry. I think it’s only fair that you be gifted the opportunity to take Amanda Blayze’s Queen of the Ring Title should you defeat her in the ring this evening.
Wilde: Oh…..that’s-that’s-that’s not what I was talking about.
Kloe: It isn’t?
Wilde: I mean, I appreciate it and all, but what I was really grateful for was the opportunity to put an end to The Whore at long last.
Kloe: I’m eager to see what you have planned for Buehler.
Wilde: You’ll love it my Lord. I cannot wait to unleash my plan for Katelyn Buehler at the End of the Year Special.
Kloe: Well go and dispense with Amanda Blayze first, anoint yourself the NEW number one contender for the Queen of the Ring Championship THEN see Katelyn Buehler dealt with.
Wilde: Yes my Lord, yes.
Wilde proceeds in the direction of the ring, with Executioner naturally following directly behind her, the pair inseparable, especially with Wilde on the cusp of competition.
AMANDA BLAYZE VS. JESSICA WILDE
The intro of “Warriors of the World (United)” by Manowar blares into the arena, generating thunderous cheers from the crowd.
Then, as the song begins, Amanda Blayze emerges through the smoke and comes down toward the ring, high fiving fans as the arena continues to erupt with thunderous cheers. When, she reaches the ringside area, she stands there taking in the atmosphere of the arena as the fans continue to show their reactions. Then, she takes off her vest and reveals herself to the crowd, which fires up the crowd even more. She then climbs up the apron and jumps over the ropes to enter the ring.
Seconds later, she runs up two of the opposite ringposts, jumps onto the ropes and extends her arms with a traditional Hawaiian Shaka signal with her extended hands, taking in the atmosphere while the crowd reaction continues and the cameras flashing.
After going through her ritual, Amanda jumps down and does pre-match stretches, waiting for her opponent to arrive.
Greyson: Amanda Blayze better have eyes in the back of her head.
Sparkles: Would it help if my eyes were already on her backside?
Greyson: No Sparkles, it wouldn’t. Amanda has made her fair share of enemies over recent months, one of which we saw headed in the general direction of the ring before the commercial break. Queen of the Ring Champion Tina Valentine is going to no doubt be out here shortly to get involved in a match where Blayze is unfairly forced to defend her Queen of the Ring Title number one contendership against Jessica Wilde.
Sparkles: Sinistry looking out for their own.
Greyson: We’re already starting to see how Kloe Masters will affect the course of this show. She’s pulling every string to make sure the Sinistry, and all those who support them are rewarded opportunities for their loyalty, even if they don’t deserve those opportunities.
Sparkles: And Amanda has already been through so much just to earn her shot at the Queen of the Ring Championship.
Blayze, who has encountered so many obstacles since winning a title shot, now has to vault one last hurdle. She stares up the ramp in anticipation of Jessica Wilde’s arrival. “My Demons” by Starset filters through the speakers and Jessica Wilde is already appearing not standing on the stage, but seated on the shoulders of Executioner. The massive masked man carries Wilde towards the ring while she solemnly hangs her head and clasps her hands together in prayer. The Extraordinary Title that was gifted to her by Harbinger, the artist formerly known as Hurse, now hangs around the neck of her seven foot subordinate. The two reach the ring and Executioner turns his back to the ring, allowing Wilde to slip off of his shoulders, stand on the apron then take her belt off his neck. She lifts it into the air while pointing at Blayze and making a belt gesture across her own waist.
Sparkles: Awww, aren’t Executioner and Wilde so cute together?
Greyson: As cute as a pack of wolves mauling a bunny.
Sparkles: How adorable.
Greyson: What we’re about to see right now is not cute, nor is it adorable. Blayze is forced to defend her number one contendership at the Queen of the Ring Title against Wilde….why? Not because Jessica has beaten Blayze, or well, ANYONE to earn this chance, it’s all because she’s blindly devoted to the Sinistry.
Sparkles: You got to know who’s ass to kiss, Greyson, not who’s ass you have to stick your hand up
Greyson: You’re a puppet Sparkles, I have to put my hand somewhere.
Sparkles: Sure, keep on justifying your perversion, sicko.
Wilde continues to flaunt the Extraordinary Title before the face of Blayze and for very good reason. She keeps Amanda focused on her to make sure Amanda’s isn’t focused on Executioner sliding into the ring. The giant charges up behind Blayze, grabs her by the shoulder and spins her around, snatching her by the throat. Before the match can even begin Executioner is attempting to chokeslam the opponent of his beloved Wilde. But Amanda will not fall victim to his assault. Delivering an elbow right to Executoner’s forearm then staggering away from the seven footer. Executioner then rushes forward and attempts a big boot that Blayze ducks under, causing the giant to crotch himself over the top rope. The masked man has to be grimacing in pain as his nads end up draped across the cable.
Wilde looks to avenge the fate befallen her protector, rushing across the ring straight at Amanda’s side only to have her side step whatever Wilde had planned and instead deliver a kick straight to the back of her knees. Wilde’s feet launch into the air as a result and hit Executioner’s hip with a front dropkick. The blow knocks the giant fully over the cables and to the outside of the ring.
A frustrated Wilde races to her feet and charges at the elusive Amanda, throwing a clothesline that is ducked. Jessica’s momentum carries her forward after missing this clothesline, her body spinning towards Blayze who now stands with her side to the cables. Jessica comes charging in with another clothesline attempt only to have Blayze duck and catch her with a back drop over the ropes.
Jessica flips over before ultimately crashing down right into the shoulder of Executioner at ringside, both individuals plummeting to the mats. They just begin to collect themselves before Amanda rolls out of the ring, clutches the back of Jessica’s head and charges her towards the ring, depositing her back inside. Blayze then climbs up onto the apron, grabs the top rope and launches herself over into a flip forward senton that has her crashing down right onto the elevated knees of Wilde. The blow to the spine arches Blayze’s back and has her grimacing in pain as she instinctively pops up to her feet. She stands for only a moment before Wilde leaps in behind her, catches both of Amanda’s shoulders and delivers a back stabber. Amanda bounces off of the knees and back up to her feet, muscles reacting to this damaging blow. She stands upright and puts herself in perfect position for Wilde, who rushes in from behind, lunges into the air and catches Amanda with a bulldog, all the while interlocking her hands under Amanda’s chin in a praying gesture.
Wilde lunges to her feet, puts a palm over her chest and raises her other hand towards the heavens.
Wilde: HAIL SIN, HAIL SINISTRY!
The crowd does not react in the way Wilde had imagined they would. Instead of joining her in this chant, they hurl insults upon her. An embittered Wilde turns back to her opponent, stepping towards Blayze, taking her head into a front chancery and then blasting her repeatedly over the upper spine with clubbing blows. Amanda falls to her knees and Jessica continues to clasp onto her head with one arm and lift the other into the air.
Wilde: I SAID, HAIL SIN….HAIL SINI….
Blayze takes advantage of the way her body is position and the way Wilde is distracted demanding the crowd join her in a sign of respect to the Sinistry. Amanda wedges a shoulder to Wilde’s gut and snaps back into the bridging northern lights suplex. But she’s not going for the pin, instead she’s flipping back and landing on her feet, keeping Wilde’s abdomen trapped in a front waist lock. Wilde is pulled up to her seat and her face is then crushed by a lethal roundhouse kick. The blow nails Wilde in the cheek and knocks her to her back with Amanda falling into the lateral press, leg hooked for the three.
1
2
Not happening, Wilde manages to get her shoulder off the canvas to prevent the three count. This suits Blayze just fine, because she’s not through bludgeoning and brutalizing Wilde just yet. She drags Jessica up to her feet with both arms trapped behind her in a double undehrook, exposing Jessica’s face to one knee after another. Each strike is more damaging and crippling than the last and has Jessica fighting to remain conscious. Ultimately Blayze stops employing the knees and now drops back into a bridging double underhook suplex.
1
Blayze flips back out of the bridge and onto her feet, pulling Jessica along to her seat by the arms still trapped in Blayze’s possession. Amanda now stands in front of Jessica and attempts another roundhouse kick, this one caught before it can connect.
Jessica quickly rises to her feet with Blayze’s leg still caught under her arm pit and then pushes it away, sending Blayze twisting away and exposing her spine to Jessica’s back stabber. Wilde leaps into the air, catches Amanda’s shoulders and drops back, but what she didn’t realize is that Amanda has caught something as well, the top rope. She stands tall and prevents falling victim to the lung blower that leaves Wilde’s body deflated of air. She sits up grimacing in pain while Amanda swings her body into a roundhouse kick. This time the blow is avoided by virtue of Wilde dropping back, avoiding the shot that just grazes the bangs of her hair. Amanda turns in a full circle as a result, falls back into the ropes and ricochets off them to build some momentum, carrying herself full steam ahead right into a Canadian back breaker across Wilde’s knee.
Amanda corkscrews off the knee and to the canvas, grabbing at her kidneys, which have just suffered a lethal blow. She gets to a crawling base only to be knocked all the way down to her stomach by Wilde’s back first senton splash. Wilde comes down spine first with all her weight across the small of Amanda’s back, driving her down into the canvas.
Greyson: Looks like Wilde is finally starting to hone the craft of professional wrestling.
Sparkles: I think the tutelage of New Eden’s Silk is helping her progress along quite nicely.
The blow across the kidneys has Blayze grimacing as she tries to sustain her body weight. She stands up just as Wilde comes rushing in from beside her and lunging into the air for the Penance Paid. The Famasser is about to connect only to have Amanda step back, avoiding the leg of her opponent. Wilde lands on her feet as a result then turns towards Blayze, who goes for a thrust kick only to have her foot caught mere inches from Wilde’s jaw. Jessica smiles at Blayze then pushes the foot away from her face, sending Amanda turning away from her opponent into a full spin and then receiving a kick to the gut. The blow doubles Amanda over and puts her in a position where she can be subjected to the Pestilence.
Jessica lunges into the air and catches Amanda with the Famasser, planting Amanda’s head directly into the canvas. Blayze not only bounces off the ring but bounces right back up straight to her feet. She stands just as Wilde turns towards her and then delivers a lethal thrust kick right across Wilde’s chin. The crowd is shocked at the sight of Amanda no selling the Pestilence and instead unleashing that dreaded kick. Jessica is knocked on her ass and Amanda goes spiraling into the ropes, falling against them as the results of the Pestilence finally catch up with her. Blayze tries to shake off the damage inflicted on her brain and now sets to give Wilde some brain damage as well.
The moment Jessica gets to her seat she’s blasted across the brow with a diving front dropkick. The shot knocks Wilde to her spine and Amanda looks to be on the cusp of retaining her number one contendership to the Queen of the Ring Title. She rolls over backwards and grabs Jessica’s leg in the process, lifting it into the air. Jessica is then rolled over to her stomach and into the ankle lock. Wilde is about to have her leg snapped, prompting her to lift a hand into the air with the intention of tapping out.
Executioner recovers at ringside from that earlier crotching upon the top cable and now tries to interfere to prevent Wilde from quitting. He climbs up onto the apron and summons the focus of the official. Referee Patrick Fitzpatrick shambles in almost zombie like fashion across the canvas, stopping in front of Executioner and apathetically warning him.
Meanwhile behind the referee’s back Wilde is slapping the canvas repeatedly, tapping out to the ankle lock.
Greyson: Ref, Wilde is tapping…she’s tapping out. Turn your ass around.
Sparkles: He’s too busy jawing with Executioner.
Wilde continues to tap and Amanda continues to twist at the ankle, refusing to break the submission until she breaks the leg. Unfortunately for Amanda, she never gets the opportunity to snap Wilde’s limb because instead it’s Amanda’s own head and neck that are snapped when the Queen of the Ring Title smashes into the back of her skull. The crowd is all over Tina Valentine as she interferes in the second straight match tonight and takes out another of the contenders for her title at the End of the Year Special.
Greyson: It’s Valentine….AGAIN!
Sparkles: And she just smashed Blazye in the head with the belt in the same way she did to Lasiewicz earlier tonight.
The concussing strike across the back of her head knocks Amanda to her knees, rendering near vegetative from this blow. She’s so out of it she can’t even see the grin on Valentine’s face, but the Queen of the Ring Champion can see, she can see the pain etched across Amanda’s features as Amanda grips at the knot forming on the back of her skull. Tina exits the ring just as the official turns around to spot Wilde leaping into the air, putting her foot to the back of Amanda’s head and then driving her face down into the canvas via the Absolution.
Blayze’s face is crushed against the canvas via the modified curb stomp, leaving her defenseless against Wilde’s pin. Jessica throws herself over Amanda’s chest and hooks the leg, Fitzpatrick slipping into position to make the count.
Valentine watches from ringside as she not only costs another of her contenders a match, but costs Blayze her very contendership.
1
2
The hand swings down into the canvas for the third and perhaps fina….noooo….Amanda overcomes obstacles once again by launching her arm from the ring and out from under a stunned Wilde’s body.
Greyson: But Amanda is not through yet.
Sparkles: Even after taking a blow from a fucking belt to the back of her head?
Greyson: Blayze has endured too much to earn a shot at the Queen of the Ring Championship just to get screwed out of it here tonight.
Wilde is absolutely flabbergasted by this kick out and now shouts at Executioner. The masked behemoth climbs to the apron getting the referee’s attention. Fitzpatrick cuts him off before he enters the ring and now Wilde is capitalizing on the referee’s distraction. She pulls Blayze to her feet with both of Blayze’s arms pinned behind her back. Now it’s Tina that Wilde is shouting out. Tina slides back into the ring with the Queen of the Ring Title stretched across her palms. She now rushes across the ring and swings the gold right at Amanda’s face only to have Amanda duck and for the gold to crash right into Wilde’s forehead.
Greyson: Tina and Wilde were trying to collaborate to screw over Blayze, but Tina just took Wilde out with the belt!
Sparkles: This just went from worse to horrible.
The shot across the brow with the title sends Wilde spiraling around the canvas, somehow remaining upright just long enough for Amanda to leap into the air, catch her around the neck then snap back into the DDT. Blayze drives Wilde’s skull into the canvas then flips back, wrapping her legs around Wilde’s waist. Blayze has the Huntress Trap locked in and Wilde is almost instantly tapping to it. A smiling Tina doesn’t even turn around to watch Wilde submitting, the Queen of the Ring Champion making her way up the ramp and into the back.
Greyson: Blayze successfully retains her shot at the Queen of the Ring Title.
Sparkles: She forced Wilde to tap to the Huntress Trap after Valentine accidentally cracked Wilde in the face with the belt.
Greyson: Tina is not making any friends tonight.
Blayze at last stands up and basks in the allure of victory.
BACKSTAGE
Tape is applied to the wrists of Broderick Chase…yes, THAT Broderick Chase, as he readies himself for the physicality that lies ahead. The Brod will not even allow the blood seeping down from the hematoma in his forehead to stop him from participating in what might just be the most intense encounter of his career. In a matter of moments he steps into the ring fighting not just for his honor, not just for the honor of his daughter, but for the honor of his entire family. The commentating duo of Greyson Lovejoy and Sparkles reflect upon the magnitude of the match ahead of the Brod.
Sparkles: What is the Brod thinking?
Greyson: I’m pretty sure he’s not thinking at all right now. The only thing on his mind is his daughter. Taylor Chase and the threat Ba’al poses to her.
Sparkles: Well he’s in a position to do something about it coming up next, but has to survive a Crucifixion Match in order to see his goal accomplished.
Greyson: Ba’al versus Broderick Chase, Crucifixion Match, don’t go anywhere, because you don’t want to miss what’s going to happen next.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
A wounded Amanda Blayze stumbles along into the backstage area, clasping at the back of her head, the very spot targeted by the Queen of the Ring Champion. Blayze, one of the number one contenders to that very title, staggers through the gorilla positon but doesn’t get very far before finding a physical obstruction blocking her path.
Lasiewicz: I think the two of us need to talk.
The first victim of Tina Valentine’s guerilla tactics, Jessica Lasiewicz, materializes before Blayze, her daunting and fear inspiring physique encroaching upon Blayze’s personal space. The co-number one contenders for the Queen of the Ring Championship step vie a vie, but it doesn’t seem that either has come looking for a fight.
Blayze: About?
Lasiewicz: Making Tina Valentine as miserable as she’s made us.
Blayze: You have my attention.
THE BROD VS BA’AL
CRUCIFXION MATCH
Cameras are centered upon the giant crucifix ominously descending onto the ring. Of course the cameras aren’t the only objects fixated on this daunting symbol that has been implored numerous times over the past few months by the Sinistry to victimize all who dared defy them. Every fan watches with unblinking eyes as the cross reaches the ring and finds itself slanted diagonally against the ropes.
Greyson: There it is Sparkles, the crucifix that will find either the body of Broderick Chase or Ba’al suspended from it.
Sparkles: Talk about a total mind-fuck this evening. Did any of us honestly expect going into tonight that we’d be seeing friggin Broderick Chase fighting our SIN Champion, the Sinistry’s own Ba’al, in a Crucifixion Match?
Greyson: No, and I doubt anyone suspected to tune in and see a puppet doing commentary, either.
Sparkles: Don’t be so hard on yourself, Lovejoy, you’re not a puppet, a tool maybe, but certainly not a puppet.
Greyson: Thanks….I guess. Anyway, the only method of winning this pending match is to have your opponent completely strapped to that crucifix and then proceed to have it raised above the ring.
The crucifix continues to await the latest victim to be strapped in place upon it, will that be the man presently making his way down the ramp? Broderick Chase would like to think otherwise. He marches straight down the ramp with an expression of such intensity on his normally cocky and arrogant features. The Brod slides into the ring, clinching and un-clinching his knuckles in anticipation of putting them across the face of the SIN Champion.
Greyson: The Brod all upset after being attacked at the start of the show by Ba’al, and now he looks to do something about that ambush.
Sparkles: Yeah, but this is about more than just that ambush, Lovejoy.
Greyson: Indeed. Ba’al scheduled to face the Brod’s daughter at the End of the Year Special for the World Title, and soooo much has gone down between those two in the build to that title match it’s not even funny.
Sparkles: Taylor’s husband, Orlando Cruze, was beaten to within an inch of his life by Ba’al…
Greyson: And Taylor, she knocked Ba’al’s wife, Rachel Foxx, out cold with the True Story a few weeks ago.
Sparkles: Let’s hope the Brod doesn’t become just another casualty in this war.
The Brod focuses on the entry way in anticipation of Ba’al’s arrival, and a member of the Sinistry does arrive, but it’s not the member Chase was waiting for. The fans remorselessly heckle Majority Owner Kloe Masters as she steps through the curtains and makes her way towards the ring with clipboard in one hand and a microphone in the other.
Sparkles: When did Ba’al grow boobies?
Greyson: That’s NOT Ba’al.
Sparkles: Oh thank God, then this erection isn’t as inappropriate as I thought.
Greyson: You’re holding a magic marker Sparkles.
Sparkles: It’s the closest I’ll ever get to an erection DAMMIT!
Greyson: Kloe Masters coming out here for….God only knows why….and I’m sure even HE doesn’t want to know.
The Brod tries to compose himself as he watches Masters slide into the ring and seemingly taunt him with her smile. But she’ll employ far more than her grin to taunt Chase, that is after all why she brought the microphone to the ring with her.
Kloe: BROOOODERICK CHASE…..Wow! Your reputation is definitely a deserved one.
Broderick: Yeah, you got quite the reputation too, read all about it on the wall of that bathroom stall.
Fans: OOOH SNAP!
Kloe: Awww, cute Broderick, very cute. As is your ridiculous challenge here tonight. You honestly expect to face Ba’al in a Crucifixion Match? Have you not seen what happens to those who stand in the same ring with Ba’al and a crucifix? It isn’t pretty, Brod.
Broderick: Yeah, it won’t be pretty for Ba’al tonight, that’s for damn sure.
Kloe: Keep telling yourself that. If you believe you stand a chance against Ba’al tonight you’re clearly delusional. But I’m NOT. My mind isn’t in the clouds, it’s right here on planet earth, and on this planet we don’t have matches between my champion and non-contracted wrestlers. So if you want to get your hands on Ba’al in this Crucifixion match, you sign this first.
The clipboard in Kloe’s hand is raised, the contract pinned to it mere inches from Chase’s face.
Broderick: And what’s this?
Kloe: Come on Brod, you claim to be an expert with contracts.
Broderick takes the contract out of Kloe’s hands…no…he SNATCHES it out of her hands and reads it a bit closer.
Kloe: This a hold harmless agreement. It states that if you end up being seriously hurt throughout the course of this match, then you have no provocation to sue SIN, or me personally. If you want to fight Ba’al, you have to sign this contract and….
Broderick: You honestly think I’m going to sign anything you give me? What do you take the Brod for?
Kloe: Sign the contract…
She removes a pen and holds it out to Chase, but he will not take it.
Broderick: If you hand me that pen, it’s not going to be used to sign any contract.
Kloe: Sign the God damned contract this instant!
Broderick: Pushy aren’t we? (Begins to thumb through the pages of the contract) What exactly is in this contract?
Kloe: Just SIGN IT!
Finally the Brod grabs the pen out of Kloe’s hand but as he speculated he isn’t using it to put his John Hancock on the document. Instead he’s swinging around rapidly and swinging the pen like a dagger into the face of the man who slid into the ring behind him. Ba’al had the intention of getting the drop on the Brod, but instead finds his forehead impaled by the ink pen.
Greyson: Look at this, Ba’al tried to sneak in through the crowd and get the drop on Brod, but instead gets stabbed right in the face with the ink pen.
Sparkles: Broderick saw it coming.
Indeed, Chase foresaw Ba’al’s attack, but didn’t foresee Kloe’s.
Masters drops to her knees behind Chase and gives him a straight uppercut to the crotch, the blow doubling Broderick over. He grimaces in pain, dropping the contract that Kloe eagerly picks up before departing the ring.
Greyson: Dammit, a low blow by Masters on the Brod.
Sparkles: Well, I stand corrected about Broderick’s omnipotent powers.
Chase continues to stoop forward and clutch his swollen genitalia, but he should have been protecting another head. Ba’al lines up Brod’s face and then delivers a running knee straight across his chin. The stiff shot sends Broderick staggering back, swinging his arms to remain upright and almost falling back into the crucifix slanted against the ropes. He just gets his balance before finding his equilibrium tested by the running punch Ba’al is about to deliver. The jab isn’t just ducked…no…Brod turns Ba’al’s own momentum against him, back dropping the SIN Champion into the air and causing him to come down spine first right into the crucifix.
Ba’al’s kidneys bounces off the cross and now rolls down its surface to the canvas. He ends up spread across his elbows and knees, reaching back for his lower spine which the Brod is now targeting, with the Singapore Cane. The crowd goes nuts as Chase snatches a cane from beneath the ring then slides back into the squared circle where he puts the weapon to use. The cane smacks off of Ba’al’s kidneys, causing him to grimace and scoot across his knees, putting as much distance as he can between himself and his assailant.
Broderick rushes in behind Ba’al and swings the cane again, smacking it right off of Ba’al’s back. The Champion groans from the physical toil his body is undergoing. He falls forward from his knees into the cross, leaning on it for support. Broderick then steps across the ring, swinging the cane out to his side before griping the handle tight, lining up for a Casey Jones inspired strike. He rushes in and yanks back on the cane only to have the crucifix driven right into his skull.
Ba’al stands up, steps to the side of the cross and pushes it right into the inbound face of Broderick, completely stopping his momentum. Chase staggers back, the hematoma on his forehead lacerated by this collision with the cross and sending blood seeping down his face. Ba’al then comes charging in to press his advantage only to have Broderick launch from his feet and connect with a dropkick right to the World Champion’s chest
A stunned Ba’al is sent spiraling backwards into the cross, falling across its surface. He leans on the crucifix slanted against the ropes and tries so desperately to collect himself. The Brod will give no rest to the wicked, rushing across the ring to latch Ba’al to the cross only to find his ribs caught against the champion’s shoulder, Ba’al heaving Chase into the air, twisting and driving Brod’s body straight into the cross with a double A spinebuster.
Broderick’s body collides with the cross so forcefully every bone in his body instantly feels broken and every organ said bones are meant to protect feel lacerated by the shattered fragments. Ba’al seizes upon these injuries, attempting to latch one of the Brod’s arms to the cross. He successfully does so but runs into a problem when he goes after the other arm of his opponent. He places it upon the cross and then attempts to tie it in place before the Brod uses his one free remaining weapon, his boot, driving it straight up and straight into Ba’al’s testicles.
Greyson: Oooh…The Brod with some retribution for that low blow given to him by Kloe Masters before this match started.
Sparkles: Is this even a match? I don’t think there’s a referee out here.
Greyson: Valid point.
The blow to the gonads has Ba’al stumbling back and stooping over his crotch, cupping it with both palms. Meanwhile the bloodied Brod unties his hand that was tied in place, steps away from the cross and grabs the creases of Ba’al’s knees. He rips the legs out from under the champion, causing Ba’al to fall to his back before being catapulted right into the cross. Ba’al flies towards the cross and crashes right into the hardened surface. He bounces off but does not ricochet from the cross, instead he wraps his addled body around it.
Thankfully for Ba’al, he possesses quite the threshold for pain, which explains why he’s still on his feet and twisting around to face the inbound Broderick, who bolts across the ring and dives at the World Champion’s ribs with a spear. The Brod hits every bit of the spear, INTO THE CROSS.
Ba’al steps out of the way in the nick of time, causing the top of the Brod’s head to crash into the crucifix, perhaps splitting his skull on impact. The collision with the cross leaves Chase all discombobulated and now twisting around right into a deadly blow across the brow with the Singapore cane. The very weapon Broderick introduced into this match almost splinters into a thousand fragments as it connects across Chase’s forehead.
A huge gash has been opened in the Brod’s scalp, a gaping wound that immediately submerges Brod’s face in a bucket of blood. The sickeningly stiff shot and the ensuing cranial damage leaves Chase stumbling back and falling against the cross, perfectly positioned in the most precarious state one can imagine. Ba’al steps in and grabs the straps hanging from the arm supports of the cross, latching Broderick’s arms in place.
The bloodied and bludgeoned Brod is unable to stop the plight befalling him as his arms are tied in place.
Greyson: Oh no…Ba’al has got the Brod trapped on the cross.
Sparkles: Hey, the Brod put in a much better fight against our World Champion than I thought he would.
Greyson: The way he took it to the champ tonight was definitely commendable, but…..put that down Ba’al.
Ba’al takes full advantage of the fact that Broderick’s arms are trapped upon the cross, hence why he’s grabbing the Singapore cane and slowly sizing up the father of the number one contender.
Ba’al: You may find this strange, Mr. Chase, but I wish to take this moment to thank you.
The bloodied Brod stares with such intensity through the crimson that cakes his face. He doesn’t hear a single word that seeps through Ba’al’s lips.
Ba’al: You have my utmost appreciation for coming to this ring in pursuit of a fight. For it affords me an opportunity to send quite the message to your family, your daughter in particular.
Broderick: Get fucked.
Ba’al: Humorous. But I do believe that is what my brother Aiken, had envisioned for your little girl.
The kindo stick swings right across the Brod’s ribs, then across the top of his skull then across his chest and arms. Literally every inch of the Brod’s body is being smacked repeatedly with the cane, leaving deep red impressions across his flesh. Chase groans in anguish with each of these powerful and devastating blows that buckle Brod’s knees and have him collapsing to the canvas. Yet his arms keep him upright, remaining strapped to the cross.
Greyson: This is depraved. Someone put a stop to this PLEASE!
Sparkles: Fat chance bub. Me thinks Kloe ain’t about to let anyone interfere in this.
Another blow connects with cane across flesh, rending skin from the Brod’s already badly battered and bloodied body. He has succumb to these shots which now leave him lifelessly dangling by his arms from the cross. Ba’al extends the staff, placing it under Brod’s chin and raising his limp head so that his groggy eyes can see the smile forming across the Champion’s face.
Ba’al: I could extinguish that light in your eyes and your zest for life, but I do believe forcing you to watch what becomes of your daughter at the End of the Year Special would be a far harsher punishment. You agree, no?
Ba’al tilts his head in preparation for the Brod’s answer, but the dozens of blows Chase withstood from the cane leaves him hard pressed just to breathe, let alone produce a response.
Ba’al: I thought you would see things my way.
The cane is thrown aside and Ba’al throws himself to his knees. His eyes watch the cross elevating towards the rafters with the Brod’s decimated frame hanging from it. The remorseless grin on Ba’al’s face is directed to the destroyed body of Chase displayed high above the ring, chin dipped to chest and incapable of rising.
BACKSTAGE
Broderick Chase wasn’t the only one who suffered an attack earlier tonight, we see two more victims of an assault nursing their ailing wounds. Jessica Lasiewicz and Amanda Blayze, the co-number one contenders for the Queen of the Ring Championship, who were attacked with the very belt that they are in pursuit of, find themselves exiting the office of Principle Owner Karen McBride.
Amanda: I can’t believe McBride actually signed off on that.
Lasiewicz: She’s one of the few around here who knows what’s right.
Amanda: That’s refreshing.
Lasiewicz: Indeed. And speaking of doing what’s right. Let’s make things RIGHT with Tina Valentine.
Amanda: Her night is about to be very-VERY interesting.
Lasiewicz: Lace up your boots Blayze. We’ve got one more match ahead of us.
Amanda: Match? Noooo. We’ve got an ass kicking to deliver.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
The enclosed parking facility is highlighted, but this time it’s not a limo pulling into view, it’s an ivory shaded Humvee, screeching to a halt. Smoke dissipates from the rear tires and scorch marks are left in the concrete beneath the vehicle. The doors pop open and from the Humvee emerges Taylor Chase. The number one contender then turns towards the passenger door which comes flying open as Orlando Cruze steps out.
Taylor: I can’t believe we’re this fucking late.
Orlando: You didn’t HAVE to make all those public appearances, Tay.
Taylor: I know-I know, Kloe is just trying to overwork me as much as she can to keep me from training for the World Title match, but if the fans are promised an appearance by Taylor Chase, I’m not going to leave them hanging.
Orlando: I know you have an obligation to the fans, but you have to think about the obligation to yourself as well. Don’t you two agree?
The back doors of the Humvee pop open and out steps the very same individuals seen at the conclusion of the last NewAge. Sebastian Blake and Callista Christos, the pair that Orlando was prepared to sell his shares of the IWC to before Kloe Masters swooped in and pulled her swerve, exit the vehicle and drop down behind the Icon.
Blake: Ditto Tay, ditto.
Callista: You’re not the only one counting on your victory over Ba’al at the End of the Year Special.
Taylor: Yeah…no pressure, right?
Blake: It isn’t until you beat Ba’al that Orlando and I can get back to talking business.
Taylor: Might want to get a jump on that, because there’s no way I’m losing to Ba’al…no way.
Kelcey: Tay.
The best and most loyal friend of Taylor comes into view, Kelcey Wallace darting across the parking lot and stopping in front of Taylor.
Kelcey: We seriously need to talk.
Taylor: What’s up Kels?
Kelcey: it’s about your father.
Orlando: What’s the Brod got himself into this time?
Any semblance of joy is soooo zapped from the conversation when seeing the grave expression on Kelcey’s face.
Taylor: Kels, what happened?
IN RING
”Talkin That” plays over the PA system and both Queen of the Ring Champion Tina Valentine and Prii Foote come strutting down the ramp, the two nearing the squared circle. They slip in under the cables where the Duchess proudly displays the title belt strewn over her shoulder, the very weapon that has been of such aid to her in the destruction of both of the contenders for her championship.
Greyson: Oh geez, didn’t we get enough of Tina Valentine this evening?
Sparkles: You can never have enough of that ghetto booty.
Greyson: This cold and malicious young lady has been on a tear tonight. First she took out Jessica Lasiewicz, then she attempted to do the same to Amanda Blayze. So who’s next?
Sparkles: Please let it be Greyson Lovejoy. Add him to your Whore Hit List, Lovejoy is the biggest whore of them all.
The Duchess steps across the ring requesting a microphone and you better believe she’s not about to be denied what she wants.
Tina: So let me get this straight. The Duchess….YOUR QUEEN has already had herself an incredibly busy night taking out one skanky bitch after another, and yet even after all my tireless work, the IWC is still expecting me to lace up my boots and compete in this Lethal Lottery Tag Team Title Tournament tonight?
Prii: A tournament for the Tag Team Championships where the pairings are selected totally at random.
Tina: And because God really-really hates me, my randomly selected partner is Kordy? Fucking Kordy of all people!?!
Valentine continues to bemoan her fate.
Tina: I don’t know if the brass have been watching, but Kordy and I, we’re not exactly on the same page. Though we’re both technically members of the GOOD Movement, while I’m fighting on behalf of GOOD, Kordy’s sucking off the Sinistry. Right Prii?
Prii: You’re darned skippy.
Tina: She and I cannot be tag team partners in this tournament tonight. It’s not gonna happen. Especially when I have a GOOD partner standing right here beside me.
Foote, another member of the GOOD Movement, produces a smirk and bobs her head.
Prii: Tina and I are GOOD through and through. Kordy on the other hand, she’s allowed darkness to corrupt her heart, and penetrate her nether regions. For weeks she’s masqueraded herself as a member of the GOOD Movement, and yet every time we turn around, we see her running around with the Sinistry. Every Twitter comment she makes is about the Frost family and how awesome-possum they are.
Tina: She sings the praises of a group that has tried to have her agent castrated over and over again, and yet still claims to be loyal to him?
Prii: Ethan Von Aaron does not deserve to be strung along and mistreated the way you’ve mistreated him. Just look at all he’s done for you Kordy. You would NEVER be the Evolution Champion if it weren’t for Ethan Von Aaron.
Tina: So seriously, take your tongue out of Aiken Frost’s asshole or stop pretending you care about the GOOD Movement. You can’t be friends with the Sinistry and a member of the GOOD Movement too, doesn’t work that way.
Prii: You either choose a side, or we’ll make the choice for you.
Tina: But that choice, it ain’t comin’ tonight. I don’t trust you to team alongside me in this tournament, so it ain’t happening. Prii’s gonna be my partner, and if anyone has a problem with that they can come out here, pucker up their lips and kiss my a….
Amanda: We DO have a problem with that.
The fans are quite relieved at the sight of Amanda Blayze and Jessica Lasiewicz, the pair of contenders to Tina’s title at last giving the crowd something to shake them from the dread over recent proceedings. Tina looks unshaken by the sight of the very women she assaulted throughout the night making their way down the ramp. Lasiewicz and Blayze overcome their injures in the pursuit of inflicting some of their own. The duo slides into the ring and stands before the GOOD Movement.
Amanda: And we’re not the only ones.
Prii: You’d be wise not to threaten us ladies.
Lasiewicz: Oh we’re not out here making threats, we’re out here making promises. And Karen McBride, she’s promised the both of us a crack at the two of you.
Amanda: We just came from McBride’s office, and she told us that we’ll get an opportunity to take your spot in this Tag Team Tournament, Tina.
Lasiewicz: All we have to do is beat you right here, right now.
Amanda: Since you brought your friend out here with you…
Lasiewicz: Who I owe some payback to for laying me out a couple of weeks ago on this very show.
Amanda: Then I guess we can make this a tag team match. Blayze and Lasiewicz versus Tina and Prii with the winners advancing to be in the tournament.
Tina: I in no way agree to any of th….
Amanda: Tough shit.
Lasiewicz: It’s time I marked your name off MY list.
Lasiewicz suddenly steps forth and decks Tina straight across the jaw, staggering her back. Prii goes to interfere but receives a spinning back heel kick to the ribs, doubling her over. Blayze then steps to one side of the stooped Foote while Lasiewicz occupies the other. Both ladies dive in with simultaneous basement dropkicks to opposite ends of Prii’s skull. The simultaneous shots knock Prii to her knees, where she bobs back and forth, looking very disorientated. Tina comes rushing in to interfere, delivering a double axehandle across the back of a rising Blayze, then taking her by the hair and charging her at the ropes, throwing her through. As Blayze exits the ring, referee Arnie Ficklebottom slides in and starts the match.
TINA VALENTINE & PRII FOOTE VS AMANDA BLAYZE & JESSICA LASIEWICZ
Greyson: Looks like we’ve got ourselves an impromptu tag team match, Sparkles.
Sparkles: Too much hotness in the ring for my brain to compute.
Greyson: What a twisted situation. Tina and Prii came out here protesting the Lethal Lottery Tag Team Tournament tonight, where Tina would be forced to pair up with Kordy, and then Lasiewicz and Blayze came out here to challenge Tina for her team’s spot in the tournament. Leading to this match.
Sparkles: Where’s Kordy in the middle of all this? What does she make out of this whole situation?
Greyson: Is Kordy ALL you care about?
Sparkles: Is there anything else WORTH caring about?
The bell continues to chime in the background as Tina looks through the ropes at the woman she just tossed to the outside. Amanda is beginning to rise to her feet before Valentine comes flying over the cables into an attempted crossbody, but Blayze avoids the move by sliding back into the ring. Tina changes her strategy, landing on her feet across the mats, just barely getting them beneath her in time. She then turns towards the ring where Amanda is on all fours and Lasiewicz is stepping off of Amanda’s back in order to launch herself over the top rope into a huge plancha. Jessica’s spine connects with Tina’s chest, knocking both ladies to the mats.
Meanwhile inside of the ring Blayze is standing up and pivoting between feet, preparing to go for a big dive. She turns to build momentum by rushing into the far cables only to charge right into the spinning heel kick unleashed by Foote.
Prii’s heels nail Amanda with enough force to knock her to the canvas. Foote then rises to her feet and rushes at the nearest turnbuckle, scaling to the top rope. She balances herself before taking to the air and delivering the elbow drop right into Amanda’s raised knees. Foote yelps in pain, rolls away from Amanda and finds herself leaning against the ropes. She just begins to stand up when Amanda comes rushing across the ring and gets caught against Foote’s shoulders, then launched over the ropes with a back drop. But Blayze grabs the top rope on the way over and transitions her body so that she lands on the apron instead. She then turns back towards the ring and prepares to fly over the cables only to have Valentine step under Blayze, putting her in an electric chair drop position. Tina backs across the mats and drags Blayze off the apron seated across Tina’s shoulders and trying to fight out of this predicament. Just then Foote rushes across the ring and dives through the ropes into a spear on Blayze’s ribs, knocking her down out of the electric chair drop position and into the mats.
The crowd lunges out of their seats, unleashing quite the ovation at the sight of this unbelievable tag team maneuver. The move leaves Blayze clutching at her mid-section before ultimately being dragged along to her feet, placed in a front chancery and on the cusp of being hit with a DDT across the mats by Foote. That’s when Lasiewicz suddenly comes running across the barricade and stepping off the edge, launching herself into a lariat that connects across Foote’s throat, breaking up the DDT attempt.
Greyson: These four ladies have built up so much animosity over recent weeks, and we see it in every punch, every kick and every sensational move we see in this match.
Jessica grabs Prii by the hair, pulls her along to her feet and then rolls her into the ring. Jessica goes to follow, climbing up to the apron when Tina steps in under her and catches Lasiewicz around the legs, dragging her down from the apron into a powerbomb across the mats. Tina keeps her spine wedged to the apron just long enough for Blayze to come charging in only to be caught with a back drop by her target. Tina pushes Blayze up into the air and causes her to do a headstand on the apron with Tina turning around to knock her down out of this predicament. However, Amanda twists her body and comes down legs first on top of Tina’s shoulders and ultimately connects with a head scissors that sends Tina flying shoulder first into the steel steps.
Meanwhile Foote is dragging Lasiewicz to her feet and throwing her into the ring. Prii then reaches down and grabs the Queen of the Ring Title belt that Tina dropped to the ringside area at the beginning of this match.
Greyson: Didn’t take long for the GOOD Movement to live up to that hypocritical status.
Sparkles: They’re always trying to pull some type of trick out of their sleeves.
Right now that trick happens to be the title that Prii slides into the ring clutching but never gets the chance to put to use. She barely even gets to her feet before receiving a step up enzugari to the side of the face delivered by Lasiewicz. The strike causes the belt to fall out of Prii’s clutches and for her body to go staggering along into the ropes, leaning against them for support. Amanda then comes sliding into the ring and stands at Lasiewicz’s side before both ladies take off towards Foote in the corner, who amazingly manages to get her feet up into the air, launching them into the faces of both of her opponents. Lasiewicz and Blayze are staggered back, putting enough distance between their bodies and Foote to allow her to climb the corner and flip back into a moonsault that knocks her standing opponents to the canvas. The crowd cries out at the sight of Prii taking everyone out with the moonsault and leaving everyone strewn across the canvas. Well, everyone with the exception of Valentine, who comes sliding into the ring and snatching up her title belt.
Once again Tina finds herself on the cusp of putting the Queen of the Ring Championship to use, stretching the belt between her palms and sizing up one of her potential victims. Lasiewicz and Blayze are attempting to stand, totally unaware that Tina is on the cusp of cracking them in their skulls with her title belt for a second time this evening.
Tina just begins to take a step towards her injured opponents when her plans are dashed by the interference of two more of Tina’s victims throughout the night. Selena Frost comes dashing down the ramp while Jessica Wilde moves through the isle between the barrier and the ramp. Both are descending upon the ring, and about to make mince-meat of Valentine.
Her spidey senses are tingling, going on red alert when she spots Selena sliding into the ring going right after her. Tina dives to the outside to avoid the wrath of the lady she personally wronged earlier in the evening by cracking upside the skull with the Queen of the Ring Title earlier this evening.
Tina vacates the squared circle and makes sure her title belt is coming with her. All the while her eyes are directing back to the ring where Selena is now standing, but Tina’s focus should be on the woman dashing across the mats in her direction. The fans unleash a harsh and bitter reaction at the sight of Jessica Wilde, who also pursues vengeance against the woman who left her lying in the ring earlier tonight.
Greyson: Now Wilde is after Tina as well.
Sparkles: Can’t Tina get no love?
Apparently not, hence why she’s bustling up the ramp in retreat from Wilde and from Frost. Tina is so eager to escape the beating she so justly deserves that she doesn’t even see the fate befallen Foote in the ring. Although Prii was holding her own against the number one contenders to the Queen of the Ring Title a few moments ago, the momentum has shifted. Prii has hold of Lasiewicz’s hair, trying to drag her to her feet only to have Lasiewciz catch Prii with a sit-out jawbreaker. Prii stands up and staggers back into the waiting legs of Blayze, who wraps her thighs around Foote’s waist and then snaps her over backwards into the Blayze of Glory.
The back of Foote’s head is driven forcefully into the ring…forcefully enough to hit her snooze button. She looks numb, just lying on the canvas unresponsive, not even as Lasiewicz comes flying off the top rope and nails Prii’s already traumatized body with a frog splash.
The crowd is absolutely stunned by this destruction of Foote, and the way this match was thrown out on account of the interference of Selena Frost and Jessica Wilde.
BACKSTAGE
We can’t hear the words being shared but we can definitely tell that Kelcey Wallace is regaling Taylor Chase with a pretty harrowing tale. Taylor’s expression becomes more and more emotional with every word she hears from Kelcey in the backstage corridor. The primary emotion Taylor is showing? ANGER. Her husband, Orlando Cruze, seconds that emotion. He stands behind his wife listening to Kelcey’s words and having the exact same reaction to them. It appears that Kelcey has finally sold the pair on the severity of the injuries inflicted on Taylor’s father, the Brod, before Taylor could arrive in time to do anything to prevent it. But she’s here now, and evident by her stomps down the corridor, she and Orlando are about to do something in retaliation for the Brod’s Crucifixion.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
There is quite a bit of heat directed at Tina Valentine over her actions throughout the night, what with attacking so many potential candidates for her Queen of the Ring Championship. All of those assaults throughout the night have come back to plague her, resulting in the absolute beat-down that her GOOD Movement compatriot Prii Foote received in the middle of the ring. And speaking of GOOD Movement teammates…..
Kordy: Oh GOODIE, it’s Kordy’s tag team partner.
Valentine veers her eyes from behind her back to the space Kordy occupies in front of her. The Evolution Champion is joined by the Stranger, the two standing in front of the departing Tina, who is as thrilled at the sight of Kordy as she would be a fire cracker shoved up her own nostril.
Tina: Think again you two faced FUGMO. Tina ain’t teamin’ with your back stabbin’ ass tonight, it ain’t happening yo.
Kordy: Do Tina speaketh da English?
Tina: Oh here, let me translate it for you.
Valentine pulls back her fist.
Kordy: Whoa-whoa-whoa!
Kordy defensively throws her palms up into the air.
Kordy: Tag team partners shouldn’t treat each other like this.
Tina: But we’re NOT tag team partners, Kordy. The sooner you accept that the better it is for your health.
Kordy: Are you threatening Kordy?
Tina: Ya damn straight I am.
Kordy: But Kordy and Tina are partners in the title tournament tonight.
Tina: No, Tina and Prii were going to be partners in the tournament, and now that Prii can’t compete because of those skank ass hoes jumping her in the ring, I’m not gonna compete at all in no tournament.
Kordy: Awwww, well, I guess that means Kordy can go and find herself a NEW partner then.
Tina: I don’t give….wait, say what?
Kordy: If you’re not gonna be Kordy’s tag team partner then Kordy’s going to find someone who would LOVE to be Kordy’s partner.
Tina: Pfft, yeah right. Ain’t no member of the GOOD Movement gonna team with a tricky bitch like you. Not after the way you been playing all our asses the past few months…
Mika: Who said anything about Kordy teaming with the GOOD Movement?
Tina spins around so quickly it almost gives her neck whiplash. She finds herself staring at the dangerous but enticing Russian, Mika Kozlov.
Mika: Kordy teaming with Tina? Ewwwww.
Mika blows a raspberry.
Mika: Kordy teaming with Mika? YEEEAAAH!
Kordy: So no worries Tina. Mika and Kordy will be the NEW Tag Team Champions, and we owe it AAAALL to you.
Mika and Kordy walk away with arms interlocked and the Stranger following. To say Tina is shocked is putting it mildly. She just stands there with her eyes bulging out of their sockets and all the veins in her neck popping through the surface of her flesh.
Tina: Nuh-uh, Tina don’t play this shit.
IN RING
Before the crowd can even recover from the news that Mika Kozlov and Kordy will be teaming tonight, the fans are inundated by the opening beats of Taylor Chase’s entrance theme. The Number One Contender to the World Championship makes her way down the ramp followed by husband Orlando Cruze, and best friend Kelcey Wallace. The trio head for the ring with a fired up Taylor leading the way. Naturally Greyson and Sparkles put their spin on this arrival from the commentator’s table.
Greyson: Here they come, Taylor Chase in quite the state after Ba’al’s assault on her father earlier tonight.
Sparkles: I feel worse for Taylor then I do for the Brod, but then again that’s probably just because Taylor has boobs.
Greyson: Fair enough.
Once in the ring Taylor Chase’s request for a microphone is instantly met. The ring announcer supplies her with the device that will amplify her anger and make her statements all that more profound.
Taylor: We’re not waiting for the End of the Year Special. Ba’al…
Chase turns to the entry way, looking past the curtains, past the gorilla position and straight into the merciless black heart of Ba’al.
Taylor:…you, me, in this ring right now.
The crowd is lapping this up like milk put in front of a hungry cat.
Taylor: I’m not leaving until you come down that ramp and answer for what happened to my fathe…..
Kloe: Tay-Tay, now-now, let’s caaaaaallm down just a little, mkay?
If Taylor can’t get her hands on Ba’al, Kloe Masters will be a fitting surrogate. The Majority Owner makes her presence felt yet again, stepping through the curtains to the stage with the clipboard once again in her palm. She looks to truly be enjoying the anger flashing in Taylor’s eyes and the menacing aura exuding from the number one contender.
Kloe: How abouts ya think a bit more rationally my dear. Otherwise, you might make a brash decision that you, and everyone you care about, live to regret.
Taylor: You might want to work on your threats sweetheart, because everyone I care about, have already been hurt by Ba’al. He’s had my husband crucified, my father crucified, my best friend assaulted, and….
Kloe: And he’s only just getting warmed up, hahahaha.
Taylor: If he wants to get warm, no problem. Because now he’s playing with fire, and I’m going to fry his ass. Send him out here.
Taylor has to be physically restrained by her compassionate entourage. Every attempt is made by Kelcey to contain the explosive rage of her dearest friend.
Kloe: I’m sorry Tay-Tay, but “no.” Oh wait, you might be unfamiliar with that word, because I’m sure you hear it as little as you use it.
Taylor: SEND BA’AL OUT HERE!
Kloe: Nope. Ba’al’s not coming out here and if you even think of putting a hand on him tonight I will fire you on the spot.
Taylor: You better enjoy pulling your strings now, because after the End of the Year Special, you won’t be in any position to fuck with me or my family.
Kloe: Oh Tay, I haven’t even started ‘fucking with you’ yet. I’m just beginning. Because I came here with a very specific plan for you, and I’m going to see it executed.
The clipboard in her hand is elevated and emphasized.
Kloe: I have to give a little credit to your daddy, he’s actually a pretty smart cookie. He wasn’t foolish enough to sign this document in my hand without reading it first, whhhhiiich kinda threw a monkey wrench into my plans. Seeing as your dad is acting as your legal-council of sorts, I thought if I got him to sign off on this contract it would be legally binding.
Orlando: What are you even rambling about Kloe?
Kloe: Do not interrupt me again.
Orlando: I’ll do worse than that if you don’t get to your point.
Kloe: So impatient. How did I manage to stay married to you for so long with that attitude of yours?
Orlando: Klooooe.
Kloe: Fine-fine. This contract in my hand nullifies the stipulation that Taylor put on her World Title match against Ba’al at the End of the Year Special. You know, the one stating that if Taylor defeats our champion, that Orlando Cruze will regain his 50% ownership of the company….
The crowd confirms their knowledge of this stipulation, the very one announced at the conclusion of NewAge, hence why they are screeching past the point of their lung capacity.
Kloe: But the Brod didn’t sign off. That won’t stop me from getting a Chase’s signature on this contract though.
In spite of the anger overwhelming her, Taylor produces a half smirk and ultimately begins shaking her head.
Taylor: What universe are you living in? I would NEVER sign that contrac….
Kloe: Never say never, Tay. Because I have a way of motivating people to do what I tell them. Which brings me to my next announcement. Tonight, Taylor, if you don’t sign this contract nullifying your stipulation, Orlando Cruze and Kelcey Wallace will compete in the center of that ring in a Handicap Crucifixion Match against the ENTIRE Sinistry.
BACKSTAGE
Tina: Not happening bitch! Not happening!
A trashcan slams over the back of Kordy repeatedly, swung by an outraged Tina Valentine. Every time that the Evolution Champion tries to stand up she finds herself cracked over the back once again by the already warped trashcan in Tina’s clutches. So now all Kordy can do is lay on the floor backstage and continue to listen to Tina’s angered statements.
Tina: I ain’t about to let you and Mika go out there and win those Tag Team Titles. You don’t deserve happiness after everything you put the GOOD Movement through. Now lie there and suffer bitch.
Another shot from the trashcan collides with Kordy’s spine and renders her completely unconscious at this point.
Mika: Leave my bestie alone!
Mika Kozlov and the Stranger finally bring an end to this assault, rushing down the corridor and sending Tina fleeing in the opposite direction. Kozlov and the Stranger stoop down around Kordy, checking on her condition and realizing that she is in bad, bad shape.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
Mika: Yoooooo-hoooo, earth to Kordy, are you in there?
Fingers snap in front of Kordy’s face, but she won’t so much as blink. She just keeps on staring into the distance, looking to be in a delirious daze. Kozlov nor the Stranger, who are both stooped at opposite sides of Kordy in the very corridor where she was just attacked, will not give up trying to bring Kordy back to reality. She just sits there on the floor with her injured back to the wall and her eyes staring off into the distance.
Mika: If you don’t snap out of it can I Weekend at Bernie’s you so we can still win the Tag Team Titles? Hahahahaha, you can be my Mika Muppet. Wouldn’t that be amazing?
The Stranger: I think something might be broken.
Mika: You mean Tina went and broke one of Kordy’s bones?
The Stranger: No, I think what Tina broke, was Kordy’s mind.
Alana: Well hopefully all the king’s men, all the king’s horses can piece her mind back together again.
X-Class Champion and leader of the GOOD Movement, Alana Starr, steps into view, trailed rather closely by her agent Ethan Von Aaron. The two approach Kordy, Mika and the Stranger rather cautiously given Ethan’s quarrel with Mika’s superior, Aiken Frost.
Alana: I feel absolutely horrible about all of this.
Alana crouches down beside Kordy, yet not even her lovely face can pull Kordy’s gaze away from the wall.
Alana: Are you going to be okay, Kordy?
The Stranger: She hasn’t spoken since your GOOD Movement lapdog assaulted her.
There is a note of suspicion in the Stranger’s tone.
Alana: I hope you’re not implying that either Ethan or I had anything to do with this.
The Stranger: Kordy and Mika WERE scheduled to be your opponents in the Tag Team Tournament…
Alana: I would NEVER have one of my own attacked. To imply as much is absolutely balderdash!
Ethan: That’s right BALDERDASH!
Alana: So don’t go spreading that bull hockey. Because it isn’t true. We here in the GOOD Movement still love Kordy, in spite of her going down a wayward path.
Mika: And what are you implying by that mishka?
Alana: Don’t take it the wrong way, I was just saying that she’s veering from the path the GOOD….
Ethan: What my client is saying is that we don’t appreciate Kordy hanging out with anyone who would stoop low enough to hop on Aiken Frost’s pogo stick.
Von Aaron not only cuts Alana off, but gently guides her around behind his back just in case his words enflame the passions of the Sinistry’s Mika.
Alana: Ethan that’s not what I was saying at al….
Ethan: Relax Alana, I’ve got this.
Alana: No, Aiken is actually a GOOD man, and a GOOD friend.
Ethan: I’ll pretend I didn’t just hear you stick up for a man who abuses his wife.
Alana: That bubble butt biscuit has got it coming.
Ethan: ALANA!
Alana: We’re not going to go into this right now. I’ve got a Tag Team Tournament match to win. If you want to stay back here disgracing the upstanding reputation of Lucien Frost, that’s YOUR business. I won’t be sucked into the middle of this any longer.
Ethan: Alana…ALANA!
Starr takes off with Ethan in pursuit, trying to reason with his client. Slowly the camera turns from the departing GOOD Movement to the dark eyes of Mika and the grin that is stretching across her face.
ALANA STARR & MARIE JONES VS. TINA VALENTINE & KORDY:
TAG TEAM TITLE TOURNAMENT
Silas: Ladies and gentlemen….
The second cameras cut to the ring the viewing audience at home wishes that the show had instead switched to commercial break. They fight the urge to hit the station changer on their remotes when Silas Mason pops up on the ramp with a microphone in his hand and his Stetson placed over his heart.
Silas: It is my esteemed honor to introduce you all to the next Tag Team Champion of the World, the crowned jewel of Silas World, my Baby Spice, your Marie Annabelle Jones!
The fans resist their overwhelming compulsion to gag when “Haunted” by Taylor Swift begins to play over the speakers and Marie Jones makes her way to the stage exuding all of the prototypical characteristics of confidence. She sashays to the stage where pyrotechnics are erupting at both of her sides. She then gives a respectful curtsy to Silas and the two head for the ring.
Greyson: Our Lethal Lottery Tag Team Tournament finally underway, Sparkles.
Sparkles: And it couldn’t come a moment sooner after having watched The Brod being crucified.
Greyson: It was a harrowing image to say the least, one we’ll be hard pressed to get over, and on top of that, we have the threat of ANOTHER Crucifixion hanging over our heads like a black cloud.
Sparkles: Another Crucifixion? Try crucifixon-S!
Greyson: True, if Taylor Chase doesn’t go back on the stipulation she announced for her World Title match against Ba’al, her husband Orlando, and her best friend, Kelcey, they’ll be forced to take on the ENTIRE Sinistry in a handicap Crucifixion Match.
Sparkles: But right now, let’s get to the tournament.
Greyson: Alrighty then. This will be the first of two semi-final tag matches where the teams were drawn totally at random. The winners will move on to challenge Team EPIC in a three way Tag Title match later tonight.
Sparkles: And boy, talk about some odd teams. These partnerships will have a harder time surviving each other then they will their opponents.
Greyson: We’ve already seen one of those teams self-destruct when Tina attacked Kordy backstage, and their scheduled to be partners against former stable allies Marie Jones and Alana Starr.
Marie is already in the ring and readying herself for competition while Silas offers her some last second advice. The Tron Comes on…..
Leviticus smiles with a message to the live crowd in the Arena….
Leviticus: “It is that moment of the night that you have been waiting for but before you can live the full experience Ushers will be walking down the aisles with all of the latest Alana Starr merchandise! Get your “The GOOD Girl” t-shirt, “Alana Army” bandana or the brand new Alana Starr temporary tattoo! So please, come out of the closet and BE A STARR!”
Ushers begin to come down the aisle to sell Alana Starr merchandise, as they do the lights of the arena go dark, only one spotlight in the middle of the entranceway….
Porno Lad walks out in an all-black suit and tie holding a camera. He adjusts his tie as the audience jeers then begins to speak into the microphone…
Porno Lad: “Ladies and Gentlemen Would you please give me your attention.”
The audience boos louder….
Porno Lad: “LADIES AND GENTLEMEN would you please give me your full and undivided attention!”
Porno Lad grits his teeth and adjusts his tie before speaking again….
Porno Lad: “LADIES AND GENTLEMEN would you please give me your full and undivided attention Immediately!”
Porno lad shakes his head ……
Porno Lad: “I can wait all day if I have to. My client and I will not put up with a public that is disrespectful the one truly GOOD thing about this company.”
Porno lad stops as the crowd is booing insistently shaking his head he doesn’t stop until the audience silences itself….
Porno Lad: “Now…that’s better. I would like to introduce you all to MY STARR Client. She is the “Goddess of Goodness”. She weighs a perfect 116 pounds…. She is from not only the dreams of every man and quite a few of the women of the world…”
Crowd starts to boo….
Porno lad stops and just stands there waiting for the audience to stop….
Porno Lad: “Like I said before I can WAIT ALLLLLL DAY!”
He takes a deep breath and has a very annoyed expression on his face…
Porno Lad: “This is for your greater GOOD!”
“You’re an asshole” chants fill the crowd….
Porno Lad stops speaking….
Porno Lad: “What you don’t seem to understand is I am the one with the microphone, I am the one with the power.”
The crowd once again goes mute and Porno Lad smiles…..
Porno Lad: “I proudly present to you not just the future of IWC not just the present BUT The center of all that is IWC and all that ever will be. Ladies and gentlemen……”
ALANA STARR!
The Tron shows the word GOOD! Blinking a few times over as “Now We Are Free” By Gregorian starts to play throughout the arena……
The voice of Alana Starr can be heard speaking…..
Alana: “Good things happen to GOOD people because in the end, the GOOD Guys ALWAYS win!’
The Chorus of “Now We Are Free” plays as smoke fills the entrance way, a video package of Alana doing GOOD deeds is played in the background with footage of Alana wrestling various IWC and GDW Superstars with her hand raised high in victory as she smiles….
Alana’s pearly whites give out a sparkle……
She then starts to descend like an Angel from the rafters in a stoic pose in her wrestling gear looking around at the crowd as they give her a round of boos……
Porno Lad drops to one knee and claps as Alana slowly spins around as soon as the main beat hits on her music…..
She smiles as she lands and slowly walks to the ring raising her hands in the air chanting….……
GOOD! GOOD! GOOD! GOOD! GOOD! GOOD!
Some of the crowd follows suit others chant “BAD! BAD! BAD!”….
Porno Lad leads the way as Alana smiles at the crowd interacting with the fans and signing their Alana merchandise which everyone has of course. Alana takes selfies with the fans and poses with them while Porno Lad bows “We’re Not Worthy”…..
He hops on the apron and holds the ropes open as Alana slowly walks in wearing her angelic robe as Porno Lad slowly takes it off revealing Alana’s beautiful body all dressed in white, she then climbs the turnbuckle and back flips into the ring, she tilts her head and smiles, shaking the referee’s hand and waving at the announce team along to her fans and the crowd booing her out of the building….
Alana smirks and blushes saying “Thank You”……
Porno Lad gets on his knees and bows to her, she tilts her head again and smiles as the chants of “GOOD! GOOD! GOOD! GOOD!” and “BAD! BAD! BAD!” continue…..
The beautiful Alana Starr waits for the match to start by stretching her legs on the turnbuckle so that Porno Lad can lift her pads over her knees and make his way outside to the corner. He takes the X-Class Title off of Alana’s waist in the process.
Greyson: Well X-Class Champion Alana Starr and her manager Ethan Von Aaron, AKA Porno Lad, look like their willing to let bygones be bygones this evening regarding teaming alongside Marie Jones.
Sparkles: Odd considering that Ethan has had his GOOD Movement enforcer Polly Norah trying to take Marie out for several weeks after she left the GOOD Movement for Silas World.
Speaking of Silas, and for the first time not while stringing together a long line of curse words, he presently steps towards Alana and Ethan with a microphone in hand.
Silas: Ethan, Alana, I think before we get this match underway that we all four have ourselves a conversation here.
Starr and Von Aaron are naïve enough to take the bait Silas dangles.
Silas: Now Silas is not a dullard, I know there are some sore feelings between you two and my Baby Spice over her departure from the GOOD Movement. But that don’t mean on this rare occasion Silas World and the GOOD Movement can’t form a one night alliance to ensure we all walk away from this situation happy. Why let petty grudges stand in the way of titles and glory? And who’s to say that once everything is said and done, and those Tag Title belts are around the waists of Baby Spice and Baby GOOD, that ya THEN get any sore feelings outta yer systems? So all I’m askin’ is that for the time being we all try to get along? Can we do that?
Alana and Ethan consider the offer…for too long in Silas’ mind.
Silas: You’d be wise to consider this if ya value yer careers, because I hold certain sway around these parts and I could make ya both miserable if ya decide to screw with Marie’s title ambitions. You two have seen what I did to my own client, Scott Cannon, he was my right hand man, and now he’s become nothin’ but my bitc….oh sorry….my BISCUIT!
Alana: Are you threatening us?
Marie: That’s right!
Jones takes the microphone right out of Silas’ hand and steps right up into the face of her tag team partner.
Marie: He IS threatening, but I’ll go one step further than that if you stand between me and those tag titles.
Marie’s finger embeds into Alana’s chest and pushes her back.
Marie: I’ve been forced to cater to you and stand in your shadow as part of the GOOD Movement for TOO damned long, and I won’t take a backseat to your agenda again. Not now that I stand beside an agent who is concerned with the progression of my career rather than getting his knob waxed by Rachel Frost.
Alana: Why don’t you take that tone out of your….
Tina: Ladies, ladies, ladies…
Alana’s fellow GOOD Movement associate comes sliding into the ring, The Duchess and Queen of the Ring Champion steps right up beside Jones and Starr.
Tina: Look I know you two don’t get along.
The Duchess points between Starr and Jones.
Tina: And I have issues with my tag team partner as well. You, Marie, turned your back on the Goddess of GOODness by joining Silas World, and my partner, Kordy, she’s on the edge of turning her back on the Goddess as well by siding with the Sinistry. So obviously, neither you nor I, Alana, can trust either of the partners that were selected as our opponents in this Tag Tournament.
Alana: Agreed.
Tina: So here’s what I suggest….
Alana: You know what Tina, I’m already right there with you. I know exactly what you’re suggesting.
Marie: What are you two rambling….
Suddenly Alana spins around and clotheslines Marie down to the canvas. No sooner does Marie’s back hit the canvas that her front is pounced upon, Tina mounting Jones’ chest and pummeling her face with punches.
Alana: The way Tina and I see it, Marie, is that if neither of our partners can compete tonight then the IWC will have no other alternative but to team the GOOD Movement together. So you can consider Tina Valentine and Alana Starr the NEXT Tag Team Champions.
Alana drops the microphone and begins to stomp away at Marie’s body.
Tina: We won’t tolerate any more back stabbing bitches.
BACKSTAGE
Cameras segue to the judgmental gaze of Selena Frost, who stands in the backstage area watching footage from the ring via the tablet in her hand. Clearly Frost is not pleased by the behavior of Tina Valentine, the very woman who assaulted her at the beginning of the night.
Selena: She truly does give royalty a bad name.
Wilde: Excuse me.
Selena preemptively rolls her eyes while turning towards Extraordinary Champion Jessica Wilde.
Selena: Well that explains the odor.
Wilde: WHAT?
Selena: How can I help you, Mrs. Wilde?
Wilde: You can help me by never getting in my way again?
Selena: Moi? How did I get in your way?
Wilde: I would have gotten revenge on Valentine if you hadn’t chased her off before I could get to the ring.
Selena: First come, first serve dear.
Wilde: Well the next time you prevent me from getting my revenge, I’ll make sure YOU’RE the one I take down instead.
Selena: Heh. Well then, for your sake, let’s hope we don’t cross paths again.
Selena maintains an upbeat disposition even in the face of Wilde and her threats. Wilde tries not to be effected by Selena’s comments but finds herself plagued nevertheless as she approaches the door leading to her dressing room. The Extraordinary Champion opens the door and steps inside her dark room. The second she looks up and tries to peer through the shadows, she spots something shining from the corner of the room, what looks to be the face of a wolf.
Wilde: Uh!
She jumps back and quickly flips on the light, the face instantly vanishing when the room becomes illuminated.
Wilde: Hmmm.
Now her eyes are drawn to something that materialized instead of vanished, a letter hanging from her locker.
Wilde: Not another one of these.
The envelope is pulled off the door to her locker, torn open and the message studied by an annoyed Wilde.
Wilde: Can’t run! Can’t hide!
Her aggravation continues to show as she balls up the letter after reading it out loud and tosses it to the floor.
Wilde: Is that even supposed to make sense?
BACKSTAGE
A set of black Kevlar gloves come into view, slipping over a set of fists. Just as intrigue begins to develop, the mystique surrounding the bearer of these gloves ends thanks to the profile view now provided of Scott Cannon. He has his gloves over his knuckles, cracking them as he moves towards the ring.
Greyson: Oooooh lord.
Sparkles: Is that Scott Cannon? He’s here?
Greyson: And he’s coming to the ring.
Sparkles: Silas Mason better hope he wore a bulletproof jacket to the building tonight.
LETHAL LOTTERY TOURNAMENT
Scott’s ‘agent’ Silas Mason stands at ringside bemoaning the fate befallen the new crown jewel of Silas World, Marie Jones.
Tina’s knuckles collide with Marie’s forehead repeatedly. While one agent stands back shaking his head, Silas, another agent stands back laughing, Ethan.
Greyson: Well this Lethal Lottery Tag Team Tournament underway in shocking fashion. Before the break Alana Starr assaulted her own partner and now, it looks like she and Tina Valentine are teaming up instead.
Sparkles: Well if Kordy nor Marie can compete then the IWC has no other choice but to allow Alana and Tina to team up, right?
Greyson: That logic is absolute horse shit.
Sparkles: Please try to watch your vulgarities around Alana’s GOOD ears.
Tina finally drags Marie up to her feet and holds her in position for Alana to take her around the neck and then flip over into the Five Starr. Alana is just about to deliver the move that effectively ended the career of Kathryn Pearson only to have Jones swing out of the predicament and slip behind her ‘partner’s’ back. She wedges hands to Alana’s spine, shoving her forward into a skull to skull collision with Tina.
Greyson: Jones is fighting back though against this convoluted plot that Alan and Tina had cooked up.
Alana staggers back into the waiting hands of Marie, who stoops Alana over and then throws her shoulder first into a spear against a staggered Tina’s ribs. Both ladies crash to the canvas with Tina grabbing at her mid-section then rolling away from Starr wearing an expression of pain. Valentine ends up in the center of the ring where she’s immediately hit with the lionsault by Jones. The brooding Referee Fitzpatrick stands in the background watching all of this with a melancholy expression on his face, which makes it hard to read his opinion of this last second change in the match format. He just lets it all go down even going as far as to call for the bell to start what has effectively become a handicap match against Marie.
In spite of the odds being against her, Jones seems to be doing pretty good for herself. This is evident as she pulls Tina up by the bangs and begins to swing punch after punch right across her face. She then goes as far as to throw a headbutt across Tina’s skull, inflicting a significant amount of damage. Jones then gets to her feet and turns towards the inbound Alana, catching her with a boot to the gut that doubles Alana over and puts her in position for the pedigree. Marie is just about to drop Alana on her pristine face only to have Starr stand up straight, allowing Marie to hang over her shoulders in an Alabama Slam position. Instead Alana just leaps into the air and comes down on her knees, driving the top of Marie’s head into the canvas with an over the shoulders piledriver.
Marie bounces off the canvas and rolls to her side clasping at her skull. At the same time Tina is stepping across the ring and taking Marie around the neck, forcing her up to her feet and placing her in a neck cravat. Tina then falls to a knee, lifting the other into the air and situating it directly beneath Marie’s downturned face. That’s when Alana comes rushing in and leaps into the air, delivering a modified Five Starr of sorts as she catches Marie with a flip over neck breaker that drives the back of Marie’s head straight into Tina’s raised knee.
Greyson: What a tag team move by Alana and Tina!
Sparkles: These two showing why it was such a huge mistake on the IWC’s part not to book them as a tag team right off the start.
Greyson: Well in the IWC’s defense, all of these teams were selected totally at random, but neither Tina nor Alana could stand for that, they insist on being partners, hence why they’re trying to take out each other’s partners in this tournament.
And they are doing a damn GOOD job of it considering the last move they just delivered that has Marie seated on the canvas holding her potentially snapped neck. Silas shouts instructions at ringside, begging Marie to get back into this match, a task that is made impossible when she has both of her legs caught and hooked by Tina and Alana. The pair now lifts Marie off of the canvas and subject her to the Washing Machine slam. Marie’s is flipped up and off of the canvas by the creases of her knees, loaded onto the shoulders of both of her opponents for only a moment before being slammed into the canvas spine first.
BACKSTAGE
We cut away from the action briefly to the backstage area where a monitor is positioned in front of two very interested observers. The Tag Team Champions Andre Jordan and Gavin Taylor, collectively known as Team EPIC, sit in steel folding chairs and find themselves glued to the action in the ring.
IN RING
Greyson: Andre Jordan and Gavin Taylor very interested in the outcome of this match.
Sparkles: Indeed, they defend their belts against the winner of this tournament bout in a three way at the end of the night.
Inside of the ring Starr extends her foot and places it in the interlocked hands of Tina, who lifts Starr’s leg into the air, flipping her over backwards into the moonsault. She crashes right down on top of Marie, then hooks her leg for the pin.
1
2
Marie manages to get her shoulder up and off of the canvas, twisting away from Alana in the process but twisting right into the waiting arms of Valentine.
Valentine hooks both of Marie’s arms and forces her up to her feet while subjecting her face to repeated knee lifts.
Silas: Somebody get out here! Somebody, anybody in Silas World, get out here now!
Silas Mason has a microphone lifted up to his palms and is screeching towards the backstage area.
Silas: Baby Spice needs a partner. So Silas World, step up and do what’s right. Get one of yer asses to this ring right now and team up with Marie…
Scott: You rang?
The crowd has a very split reaction to the sight of Scott Cannon making his way down the ramp sliding a pair of Kevlar gloves over his hands. The sight of Cannon approaching the ring has Silas’ heart leaping up into his throat. He shakes his head at the sight of his ‘client’ and yet budding rival nearing the squared circle. But Silas realizes that Scott isn’t here to team with Marie nor help Silas World, he’s here for an entirely different reason, a reason that will result in Silas’ blood being washed out of Scott’s gloves by the end of the night.
Greyson: Oh lord, it’s Cannon…Scott Cannon.
Sparkles: I take it he’s the last man Silas wanted to see answer his call.
Greyson: Well you heard Silas before the match began, he’s made Cannon’s life a living hell ever since Scott started taking up for those being abused by Silas’ control.
Sparkles: And to think, just a few weeks ago Scott was Silas’ number one guy.
Now Scott is making Silas take a number two in his pants. He backs away from Cannon, who draws dangerously close to his ‘agent.’ The second Scott gets within range to add some color to his black gloves, his ‘agent’ takes off running. Silas rushes across the mats and leaps over the barricade, preventing himself from becoming nothing but a bloody splotch on Scott’s palms. Cannon leaps over the barrier and keeps hot on Silas’ heels.
All the while in the ring we see that Alana and Tina have been distracted by all this madness between Silas and his ‘client’ Scott. So distracted in fact that it’s allowed Marie to get to her feet behind them, utilizing the ropes to reach her feet. Tina is the first to spot her, rushing across the ring to get her hands on Marie only for her to drop to her back and low bridge the top rope, causing Tina to go flying right over top of them.
Alana then spins around and comes charging at Marie who drops into a baseball slide right through Alana’s legs while taking Alana by the wrist in the process. Jones then stands up at Alana’s side, keeping one of her arms pulled through her legs and then hooking the other one. She heaves Alana up into a pumpehandle and then twists her around in mid-air to deliver a sit-out powerbomb. Jones then leans with her shoulders into the creases of Alana’s legs, seemingly on the cusp of advancing in the Tag Tournament by pinning the woman who was originally slated to be her partner
1
2
Alana says ‘no such luck’ by rolling her shoulder off of the canvas. So Marie is now forced to alter strategy, standing up and grabbing Starr by the hair, forcing her up to her feet and into position for a downward spiral. But now Tina leaps up to the top rope in front of Marie and flies off into a clothesline. Shockingly Marie ducks her head out of the way, causing Tina to miss the clothesline and land on her feet behind her opponent’s back. Marie reaches up, takes Tina around the neck then falls to the canvas, delivering a reverse neck breaker and DDT combination on both of her opponents.
Greyson: Jones shocking the GOOD Movement with that combo.
Sparkles: I think Alana and Tina thought they’d make quick work of Jones by ganging up on her, but they didn’t realize that Baby Spice is one tough customer.
Jones may be aching from hair tip to tailbone, but she manages to get to her feet and look to press her advantage. Initially she goes after Tina, but Tina is already rolling to the outside of the ring and dropping to the mats with her back propped against the corner of two conjoining barricades. So Marie instead goes after Alana, walking right into a double leg take down. Alana grabs the creases of Marie’s legs, ripping them out from under her, causing Marie to fall to her back and then catapulting her right into the corner. But instead of slamming against the turnbuckle Jones lands on the middle rope with the grace of a cat before leaping up to the cable and twisting to face Alana in the process. She turns to Alana but she cannot pounce on her because Starr is already cutting the distance between them in half. Alana rushes across the ring and grabs Marie by both the throat and the thigh, throwing her off the top rope with a gorilla press. However, Marie tucks her chin to her chest and drops into a forward roll upon hitting the canvas before ending up on her feet and then flipping over the turnbuckle diagonal to the one she was just thrown out of before ultimately crashing onto Tina outside of the ring with a senton plancha.
Greyson: WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT!?!
The fans are asking themselves the exact same question, everyone lunging out of their seats and onto their feet expressing disbelief over Marie’s amazing high risk dive, actually seeing her CLEAR the entire turnbuckle in one leap.
Jones rises to her feet ignoring the outburst from the crowd then lunging onto the apron just in time to spot Alana charging in. Marie quickly steps onto the middle cable and then pushes off, leaping through the ropes, catching Alana around the neck and swinging around in order to spike Alana on top of her head with another DDT, this one of the tornado variety.
Alana has a different idea though, countering in mid-rotation by twisting her head out of the front chancery and then stretching Marie across her shoulders. She has Marie in a fireman’s carry for a split instant before pushing her over into a death valley driver that drops the back of her opponent’s head right across Alana’s raised knee.
Greyson: Another devastating move unleashed in this match.
Sparkles: This just goes to show how bad the GOOD Movement wants to add those Tag Team Titles to their waists tonight.
Alana no sooner delivers this vicious DVD variation before rolling the addled Marie to her feet, taking her around the neck then flipping over into the Five Starr. The move at last connects with enough devastating impact to perhaps render Marie unconscious and claim the GOOD Movement a spot in that three way Tag Title match later in the evening. Starr climbs into the cover….a cover that elicits a…
1
2
And the hand is just coming down for the three in synchronization with Marie’s shoulder just coming up to prevent falling prey to the three.
Greyson: Unfathomable.
Sparkles: You mean to tell me Marie managed to kick out of that? What does she hope to gain from all this? Even if she wins she’ll have no partner to team with her in the three way for the Tag Team Titles.
Greyson: Marie is only thinking about gold, Sparkles, and nothing else.
The fans are again rallied in a wave of sheer shock at the sight of Marie kicking out even after taking one of the most potent moves in Alana’s arsenal. Starr just sits there now with a shocked expression on her face, huffing and puffing as she labors along to her feet. She finally pulls Marie along and kicks her to the gut, doubling her over before taking off into the ropes. Alana ricochets from the cables and then lunges into the air, delivering the Starr Crossed right to the back of Marie’s head. Wait…no, Marie swings around out of position to suffer the kick and then turns towards Alana’s back. Marie then takes Alana around the waist and goes for the German suplex only to have Alana run along into the ropes, dragging Jones behind her. The two reach the cables and Alana ducks down at the last second, causing Marie’s momentum to carry her into a shot to the face from Tina’s knee.
Tina leaped to the apron and lunged into the air to deliver a scintillating knee strike that has Marie staggering back to the center of the ring looking to be incredibly dazed. Starr now turns around to take advantage, rushing right at Marie and throwing a boot directly at her face but Marie amazingly reaches out and catches Starr’s foot before it can connect. She then pulls Starr in close and folds her leg up so that Starr’s knee is pointed outward. Marie lifts Alana into the air and throws her knee first right into Tina’s face. The shot knocks Valentine off of her feet and to the mats outside of the ring while Alana collapses to her elbows and knees. She just begins to struggle to her feet when Marie lunges in at her side and delivers the axe kick across the back of Alana’s head.
Sparkles: That was Alana’s move you thief!
Greyson: Marie knows Alana perhaps better than anyone else, being former stable-mates, I’m sure they’ve trained extensively together, so she’s probably learned how to deliver that Starr Crossed.
Sparkles: But that still doesn’t give Marie the right to use it.
Alana’s face bounces off of the canvas and she now rolls to her back, looking like she’s on dream street. Marie is about to put her in permanent nap mode, catching Alana around the neck, dragging her to her feet and then lifting her up via a front chancery and sitting her on the top rope of the nearest turnbuckle. Marie now begins to climb up after Alana and put the finishing touches on her by hooking both of Starr’s arms.
Greyson: OOOOH snap, Marie isn’t gonna do this is she?
Sparkles: It looks like Marie is setting up for the pedigree off the top rope.
Or at least that was the intention, an intention derailed when Tina steps in and puts her head under Marie’s seat, trying to place her in an electric chair drop position. Marie won’t fall victim to this, delivering jab after jab down right into Tina’s face and breaking up this attempt. Tina goes staggering back as a result, clutching at her face. At the same time Marie is turning away from Alana yet still standing on the middle rope, slightly stooped in front of Alana seated on the top of the turnbuckle. Marie kicks at the inbound Tina, knocking her back once again, but also taking Marie’s focus off of Alana.
Starr takes advantage of her opponent’s position and distraction, wrapping arms around Marie’s neck and then diving off the turnbuckle and flipping over Marie, dragging her all the way down to the canvas via the SUPER Five Starr!
Greyson: AAAAAH!
Sparkles: What in the H-E-DOUBLE HOCKEY STICKS was that!?!
Greyson: A super…a super…a SUPER FIVE STARR!!
The flip over swinging neck-breaker drives the back of Marie’s head into the canvas with just enough force to render her entirely unconscious. Alana realizes this, dropping back from her seat spine first across Marie’s chest.
1
2
There are boos, cheers, varying reactions of all types and volumes, everyone responding to the shocking fashion in which the GOOD Movement have just advanced in this Tag Team Tournament.
Greyson: What an absolutely stunning series of events here in the opening match of the Lethal Lottery Tag Team Tournament.
Sparkles: Was Marie Jones just pinned by her own partner? I’m so horribly confused.
Greyson: Well Alana was SLATED to be Marie’s partner in this match, but Alana and Tina refused to adhere to the Lethal Lottery format of this tournament and instead teamed up together to defeat Marie.
Sparkles: This is unheard of, as well as totally illogical.
After with this hard fought victory Alana and Tina rise to their feet and embrace in a GOOD old fashion celebratory hug.
Greyson: Well this means that the Queen of the Ring Champion and the X-Class Champion move a step closer to total domination. By the end of the night they might have the Tag Team Titles in their possession as well.
Sparkles: Can you imagine the type of power the GOOD Movement would wield with that many championships around their waists?
Ethan Von Aaron HAS to join in on this celebration, sliding into the ring and stepping between his GOOD clients. He takes Tina by one wrist and Alana by the other, raising both of their arms into the air in celebration of their victory.
BACKSTAGE
Mika Kozlov: What the GOOD Movement did to my new bestie, it was….it was….MEAN. Hehehehe.
Mika airs her grievances to the man who has joined she, The Stranger, and the still catatonic Kordy in the backstage corridor, that man being the bearer of inky eyes, Aiken Frost. He stands on one side of the seated Kordy while the concerned Mika and the Stranger hover over the other side. All the while he is tightening the knot in the velvet smoker’s jacket and puffing upon a cigar.
Mika: Something must be done. They can’t get away with treating Kordy like this. Let me go to the ring and gouge out Tina’s and Ethan’s eyes. Because I’m hungry for eyes….hahahaha….I have hungry eyes, I feel the magic between you and I..hahahahaha.
Aiken: Oh, I plan on taking action against Mr. Von Aaron and those who stand idle in the torment of your friend.
Mika: Do you want me to help? I promise I won’t hurt Alana.
Aiken: Yes, no harm is to befall Mrs. Starr under any circumstances, understood?
Mika: Hehehehehe, you and she, you had a good time did you?
Aiken: We shall not discuss that matter at present, instead our conversation shall only extend to the punishment inflicted upon Mrs. Starr’s agent, Mr. Von Aaron, who has been complicit in the torment of Mrs. Price.
Kordy doesn’t even veer her wide eyes from the wall when hearing her name uttered by Aiken.
Aiken: Krauzer, my child, bring forth the object of Mr. Von Aaron’s affections.
The monstrous Krauzer sporting a hockey mask, steps into view tugging upon the chain that leads to the dog collar wrapped about the throat of Aiken’s wife and Ethan’s mistress, Rachel Frost. The NHB Champion will not raise her eyes, which are focused upon the floor, nor uncross the arms from the title belt that is wrapped about her waist.
Aiken: My beloved….
Aiken puts his finger under Rachel’s chin and lifts it only for her eyes to cut to anywhere that isn’t her husband’s face.
Aiken: Last week on NewAge you made quite the fool of me in that ring when you and Mr. Von Aaron threatened to engage in coitus. Well if you have such carnal desires that are not satisfied, allow me, as your dotting husband to attend to those needs. Krauzer, take her to the ring, for my wife and I shall have quite the exhibition for the world to observe.
The deformed giant begins to pull Rachel towards the ring only to have Aiken take her by the hand and lift her knuckles to his lips.
Aiken: And do not fret my dear, for I am confident that Mr. Von Aaron will enjoy the spectacle.
Rachel: I can’t wait to see Aiken destroy you at the End of the Year Special.
Aiken: Is that anyone for a wife to speak to their husband? Go to the ring!
Rachel is whisked away and towards the ring and Aiken is on the verge of following before turning back to Mika, The Stranger and a disinterested Kordy.
Aiken: Mrs. Price shall be avenged.
Mika: YAAAAAH!
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
Silas: What happened in that there ring, it was robbery, McBride, highway robbery.
Marie: I was screwed, Karen.
Silas Mason and Marie Jones emphasize their point by banging the sides of their fists on the surface of Karen McBride’s desk. She looks unaffected by the impassioned cries of the agent and his client, in spite of all the damage they inflict on her desk. The subdued Principle Owner just slouches back in her chair, interlocked hands raised in front of her lips…lips that never open. She stews in silence, and barely affords either Silas or Marie much in the way of her focus.
Silas: My Baby Spice is owed another opportunity in this Tag Team Tournament tonight. Team GOOD in the HOOD double crossed her and fucked her over. It ain’t right, McBride, and you need to do something about it.
Marie: Alana was supposed to be my tag team partner, not my opponent. What gives the referee the discretion to allow Alana and Tina to team up instead? It’s not right!
Silas: Put yer foot down McBride and do somethin’ about this travesty right now. I demand it.
Karen: Oh? You demand it do you?
Silas and Marie stare piercingly at McBride, who finally removes the hands from in front of her mouth and wraps them around the IPhone situated on the surface of her desk.
Karen: I’m not here for the sole purpose of answering to your demands, Silas.
Silas: What? Yer just gonna ignore us like ya did yer buddy William? We all saw how that worked out, didn’t we?
Karen’s eyes rise and narrow on Silas’ smirk.
Karen: Is that a threat.
Silas: Don’t make it one, McBride.
Karen inches to the edge of her chair and Silas wedges his knuckles to her desk, leaning across it.
Silas: You owe me, don’t you forget that. Don’t be an ingrate like Scott Cannon, don’t forget who it was that put you in your throne.
Karen: Get out of my office.
Silas and Marie exchange a glance.
Marie: You’re going to regret this Karen.
Silas: Big mistake, McBride, big mistake. Yer lucky I have Cannon to worry about tonight, otherwise yer old buddy William would be the least of yer worries.
Marie: You ungrateful little…
Silas: ENOUGH. We’ll deal with her later.
At last Marie and Silas walk away, the two exiting the office and affording Karen the opportunity to lift her phone to her ear and make a call.
Karen: I want to see William Mason in my office, and I want to see him yesterday.
IN RING
The lights go out as the music box intro to Dead Silence by Charlie Clouser fills the arena sending a shiver down the spine of all of those in attendance tonight. The big screen lights up with various images, black and white video footage of Aiken appears, one of him laughing; the frame then freezes and a splatter of blood covers it before it switches to another where he throws a fireball into the face of an individual.
The process repeats again only this time showing various pieces of footage before returning to an image of Aiken standing on a pedestal looking down at a makeshift globe, the picture begins to zoom in onto Aiken’s eyes which are now jet black… The reflection of the globe continues to be shown, however this is when it then begins to burn ferociously… Just then smoke begins to bellow out from the entrance and ramp as a crimson red light takes over the stage and a silhouette of a figure walks out only to be flanked by two others…
That silhouette belongs to Aiken Frost, fashionably attired in a velvet smoker’s jacket, and the two that follow are Krauzer, his servant, and Rachel Frost, Aiken’s wife. She trails behind Aiken and Krauzer reluctantly, forced into compliance by the dog chain leading to the hand of her husband’s monstrous servant. Greyson and Sparkles speculate as to what Aiken Frost’s motivations might be, daring to delve into the mind of the very madman sliding into the ring puffing upon a cigar.
Greyson: What in the hell is Aiken Frost wearing?
Sparkles: Looks like a jacket lifted right out of Hugh Heffner’s closet. Aiken is PIMPIN tonight.
Greyson: Might as well as be a pimp, the man has his own personal haram for Christ sakes.
Sparkles: And yet he’s STILL a happily married man.
Greyson: HAPPILY MARRIED!?! He’s forcing his wife into the ring by a DAMNED DOG COLLAR!
Sparkles: Maybe Rachel gets off on it, you ever think about that?
Greyson: Your…your…HOPELESS!
The slack on the chain attacked to Rachel’s neck is tightened, Krauzer wrapping the links around his fist and making sure the NHB Champion is dragged to the thin space between Aiken and his ‘child.’ All the while Aiken is requesting the use of a chair one that Head SIN referee Stuart Wright brings into the ring before setting up behind his master. Aiken squats down onto it and crosses his legs, looking quite gentlemanly in spite of being anything but.
Aiken: I trust that somewhere someplace, perhaps in the midst of a celebration with his GOOD Movement allies, I have the attention of one Ethan Von Aaron. I am sure that anytime my wife appears upon the screen, Mr. Von Aaron’s eyes are instantly drawn to it. She does captivate him so. He has quite the soft spot for my Rachel, who’s charms are hard for any man to ignore. There are many would be suitors who would like to engage my love in acts of carnal lust, but I have managed to dissuade many a man from pursuing these cravings. That is until I made your acquaintance Mr. Von Aaron. You, unlike so many other men in Rachel’s life, stubbornly cling to this idea that you and she can still have some form of a sexual relationship. You made that much abundantly clear on NewAge when you showed the world your plans for the ‘victory celebration.’ Mr. Von Aaron, you stated that if you were capable of defeating me in this barbaric Dog Collar match you have challenged me to at the End of the Year Special, that you would engage my wife in sexual intercourse right in the center of this ring in recognition of your win.
The thought seems to amuse Aiken, who uncrosses his legs and leans forward in his chair, making sure his jet black eyes are just a smidgeon closer to the camera.
Aiken: And it appears that my wife is quite eager to participate. Did she not lie on this canvas at NewAge and encourage you to crawl on top of her? I saw such lust in her eyes that night, the type of lust I have not seen in quite some time. Clearly my dear wife has a need that must be filled, and as her husband, I am in a position to see it attended to.
Aiken rises from his chair, undoing the knot in his smoker’s jacket.
Greyson: Ohhhh God…Jesus God no….PLEASE no.
Sparkles: What’s wrong?
Greyson: I know where this is headed.
Sparkles: Is he? Is-is-is Aiken about to…?
Greyson: Yes, Sparkles, yes.
The smoker’s jacket slides off of Aiken’s body and is tossed onto the chair, revealing his bare chest and stomach.
Aiken: Rachel…
The NHB Champion looks highly confused as Aiken draws closer to her and then brushes the side of his knuckles across her temple.
Aiken: LIE DOWN.
Rachel: What?
Aiken: Lie down in this ring at once!
Rachel looks between her husband’s bare chest and then down at the ring behind her, at last realizing what this is all about.
Rachel: Noooo…Your kidding me.
Aiken: Did I not make myself clear? I told you to drop to the ring. The time has come to show your dear Mr. Von Aaron that I and only I am capable of satisfying your urges.
Sparkles: Chica-bow-wow-wow.
Greyson: Do not condone this, Sparkles. Aiken is about to FORCE his wife to have sex with him in the middle of the ring.
Sparkles: This is like high class porn. Can I be the fluffer?
The crowd seems to be just as opposed to this notion as Rachel. She continues to show defiance to the orders of Aiken.
Aiken: I am your husband. You took a solemn vow to love, honor and OBEY me. I am ORDERING you to drop to the ring, disrobe and prepare yourself to be satisfied.
After much coercion Rachel begins to lower herself to the canvas, falling to her knees and starting to unbutton her blouse. She just begins to remove her shirt as Aiken unzips his britches.
That’s it…that’s as far as Rachel will allow this to go. She reaches out, grabs the microphone from Aiken and then rises back to her feet.
Rachel: I’m not doing it Lucien…Not here…no-no…not anywhere! After everything you put me through, and put Ethan through, there’s no way I’ll fuck you in this ring.
Aiken: You shall fornicate me wherever I deem appropriate. Remove your clothes at once.
Rachel: NO! I’m not another of your whores.
Aiken: You certainly have been behaving like one.
To the shock of everyone in the building Rachel pulls back her fist and comes dangerously close to swinging it straight into her husband’s lips. But the knuckles stop a fraction of an inch away from Aiken’s smiling mouth.
Aiken: Hahahaha, amusing my love, very amusing. You know you will not put a finger upon me. Now do as I have instructed or I will be forced to take action against your dearest friend, Jed Wayne.
Rachel’s fist opens and her fingers begin to shiver.
Rachel: What……what about Jed?
Aiken’s smile grows.
Aiken: Oh, you were not aware? The breathtaking Alana Starr and her father bestowed quite the gift to me on NewAge while you were in the ring dancing half naked with Mr. Von Aaron. Mrs. Starr all but placed a decorative bow upon Mr. Wayne’s head when she handed him to me.
Rachel: You…you have Jed? What have you done with him? What have you done with him!?!
The sides of Rachel’s fists are driven into Aiken’s chest to little effect.
Aiken: Nothing my love….at the moment. Mr. Wayne is presently fine. Enjoying the lap of luxury at my estate. And he will continue to be of sound body if you follow my instruction. Now disrobe.
The NHB Champion’s whole body is shaking as she undoes the last buttons of her blouse and removes it to reveal the black bra beneath. She tosses the shirt to the floor and now begins to unbutton her blue jean shorts, sliding them down her legs and kicking them off of her feet. It isn’t until she goes to remove the NHB Title from around her waist that Aiken intervenes.
Aiken: No, you may continue to wear that.
Rachel sighs and the crowd groans.
Aiken: Your undergarments however, are a different story. REMOVE THEM!
Rachel once again shows reluctance, shaking her head.
Aiken: Perhaps Mr. Wayne is not as precious to you as I had perceived. Maybe my threats are directed at the wrong man. Maybe Ethan Von Aaron should be the one that I….
Rachel: No, please.
To ensure the safety of Von Aaron, Rachel falls to her knees in front of Aiken and reaches up, beginning to unhook her bra to cat-calls from the male fans and squeals from the ladies in attendance. A humiliated Rachel begins to slip the straps of her bra down her arms as Aiken’s eyes grow darker and darker.
Ethan: Why you horny little goat.
There is a surprising amount of fervor shown for Ethan Von Aaron as he steps through the curtains and puts the kibosh on Aiken’s plans. He marches down the ramp with a microphone in one hand and a dog collar and chain wrapped around the other.
Ethan: As hot as I find Rachel stripping in this ring, I’m not copasetic with watching you, Aiken, bang the daylights out of my fudge-buddy.
Ethan makes his way up the steps and onto the apron, but goes no further when spotting the monstrous Krauzer stepping up behind Rachel and warming her shoulders with his engulfing palms.
Aiken: I am not surprised to see you, Mr. Von Aaron, I was actually expecting your arrival.
Aiken steps around behind his wife, shooing Krauzer away while stooping down and wrapping an arm both threateningly and lovingly around Rachel’s neck.
Ethan: Ummm, don’t tell me you had plans for the three of us to get down and dirty in a menage-a-trois? Sorry Aiken, but two girls on one guy, maybe, but two guys on one girl, too much sausage getting in the way.
Aiken: Hahaha, always with the clever and juvenile lines, Mr. Von Aaron, I do find your sophomoric humor quite amusing at times. And I am sure that is part of the reason that my wife has been so taken by you. Your jokes do humor her.
Aiken sways back and forth with his arm still wrapped around Rachel’s chest and hand cupping her shoulder.
Aiken: You are nothing but a jester to her, and when you stop amusing her, she will cut you down. I, however, will not stand patient and wait until she stops finding you amusing.
Before Ethan can question what Aiken means by this chilling statement he finds Krauzer rushing across the ring and snatching hold of the bangs to Ethan’s hair, yanking forcefully on it. Von Aaron is sent flipping over the cables and into the ring where Rachel is now pleading with her husband.
Rachel: But you-you PROMISED you wouldn’t hurt him if I cooperated.
Aiken: And you promised to be loyal to me. It appears Mr. Von Aaron has made liars of the both of us.
Ethan is grabbed by the ears by Aiken’s monstrous servant, Krauzer about to punish Von Aaron in the same manner he did the GOOD Movement’s hair and make up department two weeks ago on Riot. He pulls Ethan along to his feet only to have Von Aaron surprise the creature by delivering a sit-out jaw breaker that has the behemoth staggering back. Ethan then rolls backwards onto his feet and rushes across the canvas into a diving forearm smash to Krauzer’s jaw.
The shot has the giant reeling but still on his feet, prompting Ethan to nail him to the jaw AGAIN with another diving forearm smash, one that meets with the same result. Krauzer stumbles around on his feet trying to maintain his balance, a task made all the more difficult when Ethan grabs the chain that he brought the ring and dropped on the canvas when he was flipped over the ropes. He picks up the chain only to find that the other end has already been grabbed, wrapped around the knuckles of Aiken. Frost drags on the chain and pulls Ethan right into a damning roaring elbow right across the agent’s forehead. Ethan is knocked out cold and Rachel watches in dread as her husband and her lover come to blows.
And the blows don’t end at the roaring elbow delivered by Aiken. He now steps to Von Aaron’s side with the chain hanging from his hands and his words directing the actions of the monstrous Krauzer. The beast drops down in front of Ethan and pins his arms to the canvas, keeping Von Aaron strewn across his stomach and incapable of fighting off the whips he receives from the chain. Aiken swings the chain repeatedly over Ethan’s back, rending flesh and leaving red splotches with each impact.
Another devastating blow is about to be delivered by the chain, Aiken raising it over his head but find himself incapable of bringing it back down over his shoulder. The reason? The chain has become ensnared on something and that something happens to be the hand of his wife. Aiken spins around and glares at the chain that Rachel has wrapped around her forearm and wrist, keeping it from being employed against Ethan once again.
Aiken: Have you lost your senses?
Rachel: Enough Lucien, enough.
Aiken: And what is that supposed to…
Aiken’s words are abruptly cut short when his testicles become squashed under Ethan’s forearm. A kneeling Ethan uppercuts Aiken’s testicles from behind, doubling him over and causing him to grimace in pain. Ethan then grabs Aiken’s arms, pinning them behind his back and leaving him defenseless. All the while Ethan is glaring at Rachel, shouting at her to swing the chain that is wrapped around her knuckles, and swing it right into her husband’s face.
Ethan: This is it Rachel. This is what we’ve been waiting for. Knock him out. Choppy choppy his pee-pee.
The grip on the chain tightens, Rachel staring between the weapon that Aiken has employed to drag her around for weeks, and then into her husband’s face. She is so overwhelmed with a compulsion to knock Aiken out, actually swinging her fist around to do it only to stop a few inches away from Aiken’s smiling lips. She begins to quiver as she realizes she can’t do it, she just can’t knock Aiken out, in spite of everything he’s done to deserve it.
Ethan: Come on Rachel.
Aiken: Yes, come on Rachel…hahahaha.
Rachel turns her back to Aiken and Ethan, throwing the chain down and slipping through the ropes to the apron. She then drops to the outside mats and begins up the ramp with Ethan releasing Aiken and going after her. Rachel is already stepping through the curtains before Ethan even reaches the base of the ramp. He continues to hurry along after Rachel, abandoning the beat-down he would LOVE to give Aiken in the ring. However, Aiken has been spared any further brutality, now sitting up on the canvas clutching at his testicles while Krauzer staggers to his master’s side. The big man finally recovers from the multiple forearm smashes in order to aid Aiken back to his feet where the two lean heavily on one another and stare at the departing Von Aaron.
Ethan pauses on the stage, looking up at the Carel-tron, which amplifies the image of Aiken’s laughing face.
BACKSTAGE
There is quite the embittered reaction at the sight of William Mason, the Pure Champion extracting several articles of clothing from his gym bag and hanging them in his locker. The man given the unenviable task of protecting Mason, JaMarcus Avery, sits slouched on a bench in the background. JaMarcus doesn’t even raise his head, keeping his eyes focused on the floor although backstage interviewer Mark Comeau is entering the locker-room. He steps dangerously close to Mason, who all but ignores the microphone extended to his lips.
Mark: Slick Willie Mason, can I get a moment of your time?
William cuts lose with a predictable response.
William: I can just GUESS what this is about.
Mark: Well, inquiring minds have to know. Why did you abandon your Prestige teammate, Karen McBride, during that Hardcore Tag Team Match on NewAge?
William: There you go, Mark, doing what the media does best, misrepresenting the truth just to spike your ratings.
Mason finally removes his focus from the clothes he was hanging to address Comeau with a piercing stare.
William: I didn’t abandon Prestige on NewAge….Karen McBride abandoned Prestige months ago.
Mark: What do you mean?
William: I mean she turned her back on me in my hour of need dozens of times over the past few months, all I did was return the favor.
Mark: But.
Security: Excuse me, Mr. Mason.
The two security dopes who have been repeatedly victimized in recent weeks tentatively step into view and surround Mason. This time Avery does rise to his feet to from a protective bubble around his employer.
William: Can I help you two?
Security: Karen McBride has requested your presence in her office.
William: Requested? I’m guessing it’s more like she ORDERED me to go to her office.
Security: Erm….
William: Well then, allow me to make a counter offer. I’M going to the ring to defend my Pure Championship, and if Karen wants to meet me, then SHE can go to the ring too, and THEN we can talk business.
Security attempts to answer, but William isn’t waiting for his idea to be nixed.
William: You gentlemen can feel free to escort me if you feel so inclined.
Both members of security sigh and drop their shoulders to their hips in defeat.
William: Let’s hit the ring then gentlemen.
Melanie: JaMarcus, William, my BOYS, can we talk?
Karen McBride’s youngest sister, Melanie steps into the room and blocks the exit of the Pure Champion and his bodyguard. William does not look very happy to see Melanie, veering his eyes to any place that isn’t her disapproving expression.
William: Now is not….
Melanie: Nuh-uh, don’t you dare. You owe me an explanation for why you cut out on my sister last week. She trusted you William, I-I-I trusted y….
JaMarcus: William will explain everything to you….
William: JAMARCUS!
The bodyguard may have been scorned for overstepping his bounds but it doesn’t stop him from two stepping past the tight parameters Mason keeps him under.
JaMarcus: She’s right Boss, she’s innocent in this whole thing, this problem is between you and Karen, and you need to explain that to her.
William: I don’t need to do anything but go to that ring, defend my title, and then put an end to this situation between Karen and I.
William moves through the door followed by security, but his most trusted protector remains behind, Avery continuing to smooth things over with Melanie.
JaMarcus: You just wait right here girl, and I’m sure William will be back soon to explain everything to you.
Melanie: He had better, because I’m really starting to lose faith in him.
JaMarcus: Just wait here, please.
At last Avery steps through the door and leaves Melanie in the dressing room, where she begins to pace in anticipation of Mason’s return.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
A now fully gowned Rachel Frost paces the backstage corridor perhaps reflecting on everything that just went down in the ring, the way her husband attempted to subjugate and humiliate her. These events seem to be weighing particularly heavy on her mind, even as her savior, Ethan Von Aaron steps into view, eagerly dashing down the corridor in her direction.
Ethan: Rachel-Rachel-Rachel….come on!
Ethan grabs Rachel by the hand and gives it a tug.
Rachel: What are you doing?
Ethan: Getting you out of here. This is our chanc…..
Rachel: This is our chance? Is that what you were about to say? Our chance for what exactly? To save me from my husband by fleeing the building?
Ethan: That’s the plan.
Rachel: Don’t be delusional sugar, ya know we wouldn’t make it one step past that exit before Lucien would find a way to drag us both back to the ring and put my throat on the end of that chain.
She tugs on the seemingly unbreakable dog collar around her throat
Rachel: There’s only one way I’m ever gonna get away from Lucien. Yer gonna have to beat him so badly at the End of the Year Special, he never dares look in my direction again.
Ethan: Oh, I was already planning to do that, don’t worry. When his neck is attached to mine by that chain, and our Dog Collar match begins, I have so many wonderfully twisted plans for your husband.
Voice: You know there’s another way for you to break away from your husband.
Rachel is a bit surprised by the person who so boldly approaches her without concern for his physical well-being. Chris Davids, number one contender for Rachel’s NHB Title, proceeds towards her undaunted by the fact that he was left in a puddle of blood by this very woman two weeks ago on Riot
Rachel: Booooy, ya got yerself some set of brass ones to come walkin’ up to me right now. Ya forgot what I did to ya in that parking lot?
Chris: Does it look like I’ve forgotten?
Davids tilts his head and points at the small scar on the back of his neck resulting from the chair shot Rachel crushed his head with two weeks ago.
Chris: No, Rachel, I haven’t forgotten what you did to me, and I haven’t forgotten who was truly responsible for orchestrating that whole attack. Aiken’s brother, Ba’al..who I’m sure forced you to attack me at Aiken’s behest.
Rachel: Honey, really now, it doesn’t take much provocation to get me to attack someone who speared me through a table.
Chris: Yeah, I speared you, I put you through that table back at Reawakening Day. But that was before I knew you. Before I knew you were being treated like nothing but Aiken’s dog. That was before I began to PITY you.
Ethan: She’s not asking for your pity.
Chris: Maybe pity is a poor choice of wording….how about SYMPATHY then. Yes, believe it or not Rachel, even after everything you’ve done, there are still some who can sympathize with you. I realized after everything I saw at Reawakening Day, that YOU were just as much of a victim of the Sinistry as I’ve been. That’s why I agreed to help Jed Wayne try to save you….
Rachel: (Worried whispering tone) Jed….
Chris: Now he seems to be the one who needs to be saved, and the way I see it, there’s only one way that’s going to happen, and it isn’t by Ethan beating Aiken in a Dog Collar Match. YOU have to stand up to your husband. YOU have to be the one who stops him. Then and only then, can you, Jed, and the entire IWC be saved from him. If you stand up to Aiken and knock him out, it will be a killing blow to the Sinistry that they would never recover from.
Rachel: Why am I even listening to you right now?
Chris: Because you know what I’m saying is the truth. You BOTH know this is the way it has to be done. And it just so happens I have a plan in mind that would set about the erosion of the Sinistry and the salvation of all of their victims. I got an idea for the perfect way to maximize you standing up to your husband and entire Sinistry.
Rachel: Go on.
At last the NHB Champion is listening.
Chris: Not now Rachel. Meet me here….
A piece of paper is slipped into Rachel’s palm and her hand closed around it.
Chris: We’ll discuss this in…..(turns to Ethan)…PRIVATE.
Ethan’s mouth drops open and his eyes flare with indignation. He doesn’t take kindly to the insinuation that he cannot be trusted, but doesn’t have the chance to verbalize his anger given the fact that Chris is already walking away.
Ethan: Can you believe that? What does his note say?
Rachel looks at the document but won’t allow Ethan to do so.
Rachel: I have to go sugar.
Ethan: Without me?
Rachel: Yes.
Ethan: But….
Rachel: Relax darlin’, I’ll be fine.
IN RING
“The Night” by Disturbed is cutting through the speakers and security is cutting through the curtains. They part the veil to allow William Mason to step between. The ‘Pure’ Champion stands beneath the bright lights and listens to the hateful comments of the crowd with a look of relief stretched across his face. JaMarcus Avery doesn’t look nearly as ‘relieved’ as his employer, the massive brute lowering his head and shaking it even as he follows William towards the ring. Greyson and Sparkles do not sound relieved either, Lovejoy sounds repulsed.
Greyson: Why does William look like he just took the most satisfying piss of his entire life?
Sparkles: Because my home-boy finally passed that walking kidney stone known as Karen McBride out of his system.
Greyson: The man has no reason to appear so smug. Does he not hear the crowd lashing out at him for the way he ditched Karen McBride? He was supposed to stand beside Karen in the war against the Sinistry, and instead he left her twisting in the wind and receiving a beat-down from the Sinistry’s Mika Kozlov and Evolution Champion Kordy.
William enters the ring, overlooking the drawn and agitated expressions of the fans and sneering in reaction to their dissatisfaction.
William: It’s always nice to have such a captive audience, to have the world eating out of the palm of my hand and hanging on my every word.
The crowd really regrets the fact that the ring announcer allowed Mason anywhere near a microphone.
William: In spite of the disrespect you show me, I will give everyone in this arena an explanation for why I severed ties with my business associate Karen McBride and tossed her to the wolves. But first and perhaps more importantly I’ll raise the PRESTIGE of my coveted Pure Championship.
The title slides from his shoulder and into his palm before being elevated into the air.
William: Before Karen McBride comes out here bitching and moaning and trying to paint herself a victim, I’m going to do put on performance that leaves no doubt that I am the savior of professional wrestling as we know it.
The crowd is split in their response to this declaration.
William: I’m going to put this championship on the line to demonstrate that I am a fighting and respectable title holder. One that should be revered rather than reviled. It’s time the world realizes that I’m truly a good and honorable man, who was simply pushed to his breaking point by the misguided and malicious actions of my business partner. So let’s send out my challenger and I can give you, my supporters, justification for your undying loyalty to me.
Eyes veer to the entry way in anticipation of seeing who has been selected as the challenger for the Pure Championship this evening. Questions abound and hype builds before the suspense pays off with the arrival of “The Iceman” Eric Sailes. He strolls through the curtains and embarks towards the ring to a reaction that is tepid if anything. No one in the audience can figure what to make of Sailes being selected as Mason’s challenger. Lovejoy serves as the embodiment of this confusion.
Greyson: Ummm, hold on…What in the hell has Eric Sailes done to earn a Pure Title match?
Sparkles: First of all, I’m sure Eric has a very impressive win/loss record, and secondly, I have absolutely no idea who Eric is.
Greyson: You’re not the only one, I think he has two matches under his belt in the span of about four months with the company.
Sailes slides into the ring and looks to make good on this wonderful title opportunity. He immediately steps towards Mason, who backs away from the challenger with a palm raised and a mic lifted as well.
William: Whoa there sport.
Eric ceases his forward momentum primarily in response to the intimidating gaze of Avery, not the demands of Mason as bespoke over the microphone.
William: I know you want a crack at my Pure Title, everyone is just itching for an opportunity to challenge me for my gold, but I don’t think you’ve done enough as of yet to earn this shot.
Sailes throws his arms up into the air while sighing.
William: I think that you should have a Qualifying Match first, just to prove you’ve rightfully earned an opportunity like the one I’m giving you. So you’ll face my bodyguard, JaMarcus Avery, one on one next, and should you be capable of defeating him, THEN I’ll grant you a shot at my Pure Title.
JAMARCUS AVERY VS. ERIC SAILES
The second Mason makes the announcement regarding this impromptu match, JaMarcus takes off across the ring and plows right into Eric with a monstrous shoulder block.
Greyson: What a surprise….
Sparkles: What are you whining about now?
Greyson: William Mason claims he’s going to defend the Pure Title, and then pulls out at the last second.
Sparkles: Well pulling out at the last second is the surest way to prevent pregnancy, so can you blame….
Greyson: That’s not what I meant by pulling out.
Referee Michelle Blacker is on hand to commence this match, having the bell chimed just as Eric flips back from the broad shoulder of Avery. The big man grabs Eric by the hair, leads him up to his feet and then throws him directly into the turnbuckle. He follows this up by rushing across the ring and ramming his knee directly into Eric’s ribs, doubling him over. This whole onslaught is viewed by Mason, who proudly watches his employee decimate the would be challenger for the Pure Title.
Avery pulls Eric out of the corner, catches him and delivers a lung bursting spinning powerslam. Eric sits up grimacing in pain while Avery stands behind his back unleashing forearm strikes across both sides of Eric’s skull. The stiff strikes have Sailes fighting desperately just to stay conscious. This fight is hindered when Avery bounces off the ropes in front of Sailes to build momentum behind a big running boot. His huge foot crashes directly into Sailes’ face, knocking him flat across his back.
Avery doesn’t allow him to stay in that position for very long, dragging Sailes along to his feet by his bangs and then hoisting him into the Court Marshaled. The move connects with devastating repercussions, incapacitating Sailes to the point where he can be pinned with the utmost ease.
Avery rolls Sailes to his back and presses down on his chest with both palms, holding Sailes’ shoulders to the canvas.
1
2
A rather mixed reaction emanates from the antagonized crowd, who now watch as Avery rises to a knee and lifts a fist in victory.
Greyson: JaMarcus Avery too powerful and just too much for Eric Sailes to overcome.
Sparkles: Sure William would have made quicker work of Eric than his employee did. If you think about it, Sailes got off easy.
Greyson: I don’t want to think about this any longer than I have to.
Avery makes his way across the ring and opens the ropes for William to slip through them. The Pure Title that Sailes was intent on challenging for, now hangs from Mason’s palm as he steps over the mangled body of the potential challenger
William: Looks like your title aspirations will not be realized this evening. Better luck next time.
Mason turns from the dismantled to the dismantler.
William: JaMarcus, kindly show Mr. Sailes out of the ring.
Although Avery has already done his fair share of work this evening, he fulfills one last job function, grabbing the back of Eric’s head, leading him up to his feet and then pitching him through the ropes to the outside of the ring. In spite of witnessing Sailes crashing to whole new lows, the excitement in the arena rises. The fans are overcome with a burst of adrenaline once “American Dreamgirl” plays over the speakers and Karen McBride makes her way to the stage, tightly clasping a microphone.
Greyson: This is it, the moment we’ve been anticipating Sparkles.
Sparkles: Karen about to have that narrow ass of hers handed to her by Mason.
Oddly enough the arrival of McBride fails to take the smug grin off of Mason’s face. In fact, William grins even wider when seeing his former business associate stepping to the stage and giving him a fierce stare.
Karen: A lot of people are expecting me to come out here and ask that obligatory ‘why?’
Mason cranes his neck into a posture of intrigue.
Karen: Typically after being stabbed in the back, people come out here and whine and cry and BEG for answers. But I’m not the typical type, William…
With each word Karen speaks, she takes another step closer to the ring.
Karen: And the only person who is about to beg, is you.
The fans feel goose-bumps forming on their flesh in reaction to McBride rushing down the ramp, sliding into the ring and showing no qualms about diving shoulder first into William’s ribcage. Mason collapses to his back with Karen coming down on top, throwing wild punches into the cheeks, temples, ribs and hips of her former ally.
Greyson: No time to air any dirty laundry, these two are going straight at it Sparkles.
Sparkles: This is no way to conduct business, McBride.
Greyson: I can’t say that I blame Karen for this, she was ditched, she was abandoned, she was betrayed by Mason.
Sparkles: Didn’t you hear Mason backstage before he came out here? McBride was the one who turned her back on him a long time ago.
Mason tries to cover up with this hailstorm of punches nailing him from every potential angle. Although Avery is conflicted by it he does his job, protecting Mason. The big man swoops in, grabs Karen around her waist and drags her away from William, allowing the Pure Champion to escape the ring. William rolls to the outside with his belt tightly nestled against his chest. He retreats so quickly from the ring that he doesn’t even turn back to acknowledge the fact that McBride is delivering a huge slap right across Avery’s cheek. Avery staggers back and grabs at his lip, but still does not lose his cool. He just points at McBride and offers a verbal warning before exiting the ring.
Karen: Keep running William.
McBride doesn’t allow William to get very far before lashing out at him via the very microphone he dropped beside the wounded frame of Sailes. Once hearing this statement, William spins around on the stage, staring back into the ring now occupied by his former friend.
Karen: Run all you want, because cardio is great exercise, and I want you to be in tip top physical shape for our match.
Mason doesn’t even have time to finish mumbling the words ‘our match,’ before Karen finishes her comments.
Karen: I want you at the top of your game when we face off for your Pure Championship.
William: WHAT!?!
Karen: You think you’re escaping this building without defending the Pure Title, think again.
William: What’s wrong with you, Karen?
Someone was foolish enough to hand Mason a microphone which he employs to shout at Karen from the safety of the ramp.
William: Huh? Haven’t you victimized me enough already?
Karen: What are you even bitching about? Are you upset simply because I refused to give you what you wanted? Is that why you’re throwing such a tantrum?
William: No, what I did on NewAge, when I abandoned you in that ring and left you to the Sinistry, it wasn’t a tantrum, it was an intervention. It was me finally taking a stand against you. For months, Karen, you ignored me. You refused to help me get back my Pure Title when it was stolen from me by Darko. You wouldn’t even help me out two weeks ago when all I asked for you do was help out a few of my friends in need.
Karen: Believe it or not. I was a little busy holding the whole federation together, so you’ll have to excuse me if I didn’t spend countless hours playing to your ego.
William: Hours!?! You wouldn’t even give me a second of your day. Instead you were off flirting around with Silas Mason, in spite of all my protests and warnings…..
Karen: Bitch-bitch-bitch. I’m sick of hearing it William…
William: Well there we go, mission accomplished, at least you actually ARE hearing me for once.
Karen: Oh I hear you, and I’ve heard more than enough. It’s time to shut your mouth.
McBride rolls under the ropes and goes storming up the ramp. Mason at last demonstrates that he possesses a backbone, tossing his Pure Title to Avery then bolting towards Karen, throwing a right hand at her face. Karen retaliates with a shot of her own and here we go both McBride and Mason are flinging fist into one another’s faces.
Greyson: McBride and Mason….is this actually a match for the Pure Title?
Sparkles: If so, it’s not off to a very PURE start.
WILLIAM MASON VS. KAREN MCBRIDE:
PURE TITLE
Punches continue to fly between the cheeks of Mason and McBride. Ultimately Mason manages to wedge his shoulder to McBride’s ribs and push her backwards right into the apron. Her spine hits the ring and she winces in agony, doubling over and then finding her head being pulled under her opponent’s lap. Mason prepares to give Karen the Perfect Driver right across the thin protective mats.
Sparkles: He’s gonna end Karen’s career already?
Greyson: If he hits the Perfect Driver on the apron, that’s a very-very real possibility.
Mason just begins to lift Karen up and into a move that would snap her neck, but Karen counters, standing straight and back dropping Mason right onto the thin protective matting. He reaches for his kidneys, grimacing in pain while inching towards his feet. The moment he stands up Karen comes charging in and delivers a scintillating bicycle kick that Mason manages to avoid by ducking down and catching Karen’s leg over his shoulder. A shocked McBride is then heaved into the air by Mason who looks to be going for a T-bone suplex only to turn and throw McBride down back first right across the apron with a cradle capture back breaker.
Greyson: OOOOH! You weren’t kidding Sparkles. This IS off to a very impure start.
Sparkles: Mason just dropped that ignorant bitch right across the apron. You go boy! What-what!
The crowd pops and cringes at the same time at the sight of McBride’s spine bouncing once again off of the apron and her body instinctively rolling into the ring. She gets to her elbows and knees, grimacing from the trauma flowing through her spine while Mason slides into the ring and catches her around the neck and the thigh. He heaves McBride into the air, lifting up on the leg and pushing down on her head to send her flipping over and crashing down back first across his elevated knee. Another collective groan emanates from the crowd at the sight of Mason continuing to employ the back breakers.
Karen rolls away from her opponent clasping at her kidneys, which are being shown no mercy from a man who about a week ago was one of her most trusted allies. Now Mason is out to end McBride’s career by fracturing her back. He might just accomplish that task as he heaves Karen up and over into a basic but effective snap suplex. Mason then spins the hips and drags Karen along to her feet while still trapped in the front chancery before throwing her into the air and bringing her back down with an orange crush sit-out powerbomb.
William leans into the creases of Karen’s knees while official Blacker, who has been out here since she presided over the Avery versus Sailes match, drops to the canvas and makes the count.
1
2
Karen manages to push her shoulder off of the canvas and roll away from Mason, who quickly takes her by the hair, drags her up to her feet and then heaves her into a gorilla press slam position. The fans are not groaning, instead their begging Mason not to do what he has planned next, military press slamming McBride into the turnbuckle.
Greyson: Don’t do this Mason, this woman was your business partner for Christ sakes.
Mason rushes across the ring and is just about to throw McBride into the corner only to have her suddenly slip down off of his palms and catch him around the neck on the way down. She turns Mason’s own momentum against him, dropping back and planting William face first into the middle turnbuckle pad with a downward spiral.
Sparkles: Don’t you fuck with William’s million dollar mug.
Greyson: I can’t believe that up until a few weeks ago, these two were so close.
Sparkles: Yeah, and if Karen were to maybe once get down off her pedestal and give Mason a sympathetic shoulder, this match wouldn’t be taking place.
Mason’s face bounces back from the corner, causing him to stagger to the center of the ring while Karen lunges into the very same corner that she just drove her opponent into and then comes diving off. She catches William around the neck with a front chancery and then wraps her legs around his waist, applying a double submission.
William tries to fight through this tandem hold, swinging his arms out to his sides and refusing to use them to tap out to the front chancery, body vice combination. JaMarcus Avery watches his employer from the apron, still looking a little conflicted as his boss struggles at the hands of a woman the bodyguard once considered a friend.
Karen locks in both holds tightly, seemingly seconds from earning a tap out. Though what she gets is not what she had anticipated at all, and sure as shit isn’t a tap out. Mason manages to force her legs away from his waist and then wrap his arms around her torso before snapping back into a bridging northern lights suplex. Yet again the fans are quite audible at the sight of this unique and potent counter that has the official dropping into position to make the count.
1
2
McBride is too full of spunk and anger to go down in defeat tonight. Instead she wraps her arm around Mason’s neck and not only kicks out but rolls to her side, dragging her opponent along with her. The moment she gets over to her knees with William still trapped in the front chancery she flips forward, bridging back into a rear chinlock. The Last Chancery submission has Mason balling up his fists and grimacing in pain from this unexpected counter.
William is just as stubborn and persistent as McBride though, digging his fingers into the canvas then pulling himself desperately across the ring towards the ropes. After all he went through to take back the Pure Title, he is not about to lose it now to the very woman who initially gifted him the belt. McBride won’t let Mason get to the ropes, instead she flips over backwards, landing on her knees in front of her opponent and continuing to trap his skull in the chancery. She then rolls towards the center of the ring, pulling Mason along so that he’s as far from the cables as humanly possible.
McBride then goes to flip forward and bridge into the Last Chancery, but the second she pushes herself up into the headstand, Mason squirms out of her front facelock and leaps to his feet. He catches Karen around her waist while she was still in the headstand position and then lifts her up onto his shoulders in a powerbomb predicament. He then rushes forward in order to deliver a powerbomb on McBride’s already injured back only to have her reverse on her way down to the canvas, countering his powerbomb into a triangle choke.
Greyson: Karen literally seconds from capturing the Pure Title.
Sparkles: That’s IF Mason taps out, which we all know Mason would never ever-ever-ever DO! Not in a million, gaggillion years, no way no how.
As speculated Mason is not about to give up to Karen, in spite of the fact that she has the triangle choke so tightly clamped on. Instead of giving up Mason begins to push McBride over and onto her stomach while stepping across the small of her back. He shockingly counters the triangle choke into the Texas Cloverleaf. Mason has the submission locked in for only a moment before Karen pulls herself across the ring and into the ropes, clasping on to save herself from enduring any further punishment.
Official Blacker starts a five count which eventually causes Mason to relinquish the hold at four. He drops McBride’s leg and then watches her squirm under the ropes to the apron. William spins around and glares at McBride standing up on the apron before he rushes in to take her off her feet. He throws a forearm over the top rope but she steps out of the way, avoiding the blow. Karen then leaps into the air and across the apron, delivering the bicycle kick to the side of Mason’s skull.
The very move Karen went for earlier connects, sending William spiraling back towards the center of the ring where he desperately tries to hold himself up. He stands just long enough to be subjected to a SECOND even more powerful bicycle kick across the chin.
Greyson: McBride almost took Mason’s head off and now she’s going to take his Pure Championship.
Sparkles: I might cry. Seriously, give me a Kleenex.
Greyson: Your hero is on the cusp of losing his Pure Title.
Sparkles: I’m gonna ball just like I did after watching Beaches.
The concussing kick has Mason lying on the canvas primed for the pin and McBride on the brink of covering him to become the new Pure Champion.
Melanie: No Blaire, I still haven’t got to talk with William.
Karen finds herself turning in circles searching for the source of this familiar voice. Finally her eyes veer to the Cartel-tron, where an image of Melanie McBride becomes visible. Her youngest sister strolls across the Prestige locker-room with a phone to her ear, talking to Blaire, another of Karen’s sisters. A look of confusion befalls Karen’s face in the ring, wondering why this footage is being shown on the Cartel-tron. Unfortunately her question is about to be answered. There is a knock at the door leading to the room where Melanie is standing.
Melanie: Oh, is he back already?
Melanie stops talking to Blaire and starts answering the door, but obviously it’s not William Mason or JaMarcus Avery standing in the hallway….it’s the intimidating and terrifying Cassidy Haze, the very woman who drilled Karen with the piledriver on NewAge. An alarmed Melanie leaps back but not fast enough, her throat being caught in Cassidy’s hand. Haze then yanks Melanie forward so that McBride can feel Haze’s breaths hitting her in the face.
Cassidy: How…pretty.
Melanie can’t even force out so much as a whimper before being yanked into the hall, causing her phone to fall out of her hand and hit the floor. Blaire’s voice can be heard impatiently calling out Melanie’s name through the IPhone but getting no answer. Finally a hand reaches down and picks up the phone, raising to the side of a crouched Serenity’s face. The very Serenity who transformed Cassidy into the monster that just abducted Melanie.
Serenity: I’m sorry, but Melanie can’t come to the phone right now. She’s about to go for a little ride.
The phone pulls back from Serenity’s masked face, a face twisting with a smile.
Cameras cut back to the ring where finally Karen has snapped out of her paralysis, sliding out of the ring and rushing straight up the ramp. She abandons the title match that is now thrown out at this point, which suits William just fine. He sits up in the corner and has the Pure Title handed to him by his bodyguard JaMarcus. The two then watch as Karen races through the curtains into the backstage area. JaMarcus goes to follow and lend aid to Melanie only to find his wrist caught in William’s clutches.
William: This isn’t our fight. Not anymore.
BACKSTAGE
The map drawn across a napkin guides NHB Champion Rachel Frost through the chilly parking lot. Her breaths can be seen due to the bitter cold that infiltrates this enclosed facility. She navigates around a few cars while tentatively whispering the name of the man she came to meet with.
Rachel: Davids? Where are ya sugar?
She peers around a parked mini-van.
Rachel: Come on out and talk to me. I ain’t gonna bite. Not this time. I jus’ want to talk about yer plan is all.
Rachel stoops down to check around another car before a chair suddenly bludgeons her in the spine, the stiff shot knocking her off of her feet and down to the concrete. The figure who delivered this blow happens to be the very same monster who has been leading her around by a chain for weeks now, Krauzer. He’s not dragging her around at the moment though, he’s standing over her with a warped chair in hand, the very weapon he used to fell Rachel to her knees. She has yet to turn around and spot the man who bludgeoned her.
Chris: What’s going on here?
At last Rachel’s original target steps into view, Chris Davids moving across the parking lot where he was scheduled to hash out his plan with her. He only gets a few steps towards Rachel before finding Krauzer employing the chair once again. This time though, Krauzer doesn’t swing the chair, he throws it, Chris catching the steel mere inches from his face. The beast then hightails it, running back into the building and leaving Davids standing there with the chair in his hands. At last Rachel gathers herself to the point where she stand up and turns just in time to catch sight of Chris standing behind her clasping onto the chair.
Rachel: You sneaky bastard.
Chris: Huh?
His eyes cut from the anger flashing across Rachel’s face, and then back to the chair in his palms.
Chris: Wait. No. You’ve got it all wrong.
Rachel rushes across the parking lot and spears Chris directly in the ribs, knocking him backwards into the side of a van. Survival instincts now kick in, Chris throwing forearms across Rachel’s back in an attempt at self-defense.
Rachel: I should have known better than to trust you.
Chris: It wasn’t me dammit! I didn’t hit you!
Davids finally nails a knee right across Rachel’s chin, staggering her back just far enough for Chris to try and reason with her.
Chris: I swear, I didn’t do it Rachel…I was just coming out to talk to you when….
Suddenly Krauzer comes back into view, and he doesn’t come alone, he’s joined by another Sinistry ally, Mordecai, and both men are right on top of Davids, clobbering him from behind. Rachel watches in shock as Krauzer and Mordecai drop Chris and begin to stomp away at him repeatedly. It takes Rachel a moment to get over her initial surprise before stepping in and actually joining on this assault, putting the boots to Davids as well. She only gets in a few shots before Krauzer takes her by the dog collar and snaps a chain onto it. He then gives the chain a yank and drags Rachel back from the traumatized Davids, who is doing everything in his power to get back to his feet. As Rachel is forced to go back to her husband, Chris is forced up into the arms of Mordecai, who then turns and heaves Chris into a powerbomb position.
The monstrous Mordecai turns towards an automobile, lifts Davids up by his waist band and then delivers a Last Ride style powerbomb driving Davids spine first into the hood of the car. Chris’ traumatized body slides out of the dent left in the hood’s surface before collapsing to his knees at Mordecai’s feet. The massive brute steps back from Davids with palms over his ears, as if Mordecai is trying to drown out all ambient noises so he can listen solely to the voice in his head.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
Cassidy: Let’s go for a ride, pretty.
Melanie: Let go of me!
That same van that whisked Cassidy Cage out of the parking lot at Upping the Ante now readies itself to take off with a new passenger, Melanie McBride.
Ambrosia, one of the women responsible of Cassidy’s abduction and transformation, sits behind the wheel of her oddly painted van with the side door slid open and a hollow spot ready to be filled by Melanie’s body.
Both Jessika and Willow Wilkes grip Melanie’s arms and pull her along towards the van with Cassidy Haze following behind, patting the young girl on her shoulders. Serenity stands with her back to the van, and demented twinkle in her eye.
Serenity: Step right up Melanie, hop aboard and make sure to keep your arms and legs inside the ride at all times.
Melanie: I’m not going with you.
Jessika: No? I don’t think you have much of a choice in the matter sweetie pie.
Karen: Take your hands off of her!
Just when all hope seemed lost for Melanie, here comes her sister to the rescue. In spite of her fatigue stemming from that impromptu Pure Title bout she just competed in, Karen still comes racing into view with the intent of picking a fight with four more targets. The second they spot Karen dashing across the parking lot, Jessika and Willow drop Melanie and ready themselves for a fight, too late however to prevent succumbing to Karen’s onslaught. She leaps right on top of Jessika and Wilkes, knocking all three ladies down to the pavement. Karen’s fist no sooner pulls back to swing upon the faces of her targets before Cassidy interferes. She grabs Karen by her raised fist, leads the Principle Owner along to her feet and then throws her right into the side of the van face first. Karen bounces off and collapses to the pavement, landing right at the feet of Serenity.
Serenity: There you go Karen, trying to masquerade yourself as some type of hero. Well, we can fix that.
Serenity stoops down beside Karen, who struggles to remain conscious. At the same time Cassidy’s gloved hand is gently caressing the top of Karen’s wounded skull, brushing back her hair.
Serenity: You don’t have to keep fighting for the respect of this federation. It’s a battle you’ll never win. Why be loved when it’s so much better to be feared? Look at Cassidy, she fought so hard to win over the affections of the world only to never find that adulation. Her quest for love led her to lose match after match, culminating to her defeat at the hands of Tina Valentine. You may think the two of you have nothing in common, Karen, but you’re more alike than you think, because you’re pursuing a goal that you will never realize. Your peers will never respect you, and they shouldn’t, they should fear you.
Cassidy: You need to be transformed.
Serenity: Yes, let us transform you, Karen. All of these attacks you’ve suffered at our hands, all of these Hardcore Matches against us, they’ve been designed to strengthen you for what’s to come next. It’s time you took a ride in Ambrosia’s mystery machine.
Serenity turns to Cassidy and nods before the monstrous lady stoops, grabs Karen by the hair and begins to toss her into the van.
Melanie: No…NOOO! Security! SECURITY!!
Melanie steps back into view, waving her arms frantically towards the security guards who come racing along behind her. Before Cassidy can toss Karen into the back of the van, security grabs Cassidy by the arms and pries them off of her target. Cassidy turns and knocks one of the guards out with a straight right hand while Willow charges in and spears another guard with enough force to rip them in two. Jessika then rushes into the fray, bludgeoning guards with piston like rights and lefts. As all of this goes down Serenity stands in the background, shaking her head. Her eyes are glued on Melanie, who acts as a crutch, leading Karen away from the chaos.
Serenity: My offer still stands Karen, when you’re ready, come and take a ride. ALL ABOOOOARD! HA-HA-HA-HA-HA!
MORDECAI & DANNY DARKO VS. SCOTT CANNON & BA’AL:
TAG TEAM TITLE TOURNAMENT
A graphic flashes across the screen showing the bracket for the Lethal Lottery Tag Team Tournament where the pairing of Tina Valentine and Alana Starr have already advanced to the finals. Greyson and Sparkles try to retain their focus on the tournament as opposed to everything else that is going down backstage.
Greyson: This tumultuous night continues, Sparkles.
Sparkles: People getting torn apart all over the Manhattan Center.
Greyson: And it’s all stemming from this chaotic Lethal Lottery Tag Team Tournament. We’re about to see the Semi-Finals in that tourney right now when two very unorthodox tandems pair off with the winning team advancing to face the groups of Andre Jordan and Gavin Taylor, as well as Tina Valentine and Alana Starr.
Sparkles: With the Tag Titles being on the line in those finals.
‘You’ve never known such fear,’ flashes across the screen, followed by a brief shot of a headstone, as white fog rises from the ground to swirl at waist height around the entrance. Mordecai emerges through the mist and makes his slow and methodical way to the ring. As he reaches the apron, the lights go off and when they come on again, he’s standing in the dead centre of the ring.
Greyson: Prepare for goosebumps, Sparkles. That’s what I expect is about to form with Mordecai, the man who just powerbombed Chris Davids onto the hood of a car, teaming with one of Chris’ closest allies, Danny Darko.
Sparkles: This is gonna be FUBAR. How in the heck is Mordecai gonna be able to team with Darko given everything this giant in the ring has done to members of Darko’s Pain & Pleasure? He’s done some pretty destructive things to Danny’s buddies Mya and Chris.
Greyson: Mordecai put Mya Denton’s head through a window on the last edition of this show and then on NewAge he tried to strangle her with a steel chain. Then mere moments ago, he powerbombed Chris Davids onto the hood of a car. All under the guise of the Sinistry.
Sparkles: Guess the Sinistry has some pretty deep pockets.
Greyson: I hardly think that Mordecai is a man obsessed with money. His desires are baser and far more animalistic, this man craves destruction and nothing more.
Mordecai seems to be a man capable of navigating his way through tense situations, hence why he looks unconcerned as he lingers in the ring in anticipation of his partner’s arrival. “Guilty All The Same” strums through the speakers at this point and Danny Darko makes his way from the back hand in hand with his wife and fellow Pain and Pleasure member Vanilla Skyy. Bringing up the rear is Skyy’s agent, Adam Chase. The trio come stomping right down the ramp amidst an outcry of cheers from the enthused crowd.
Greyson: I hope Darko and Skyy know what they’re getting themselves into here. Mordecai is a very dangerously unpredictable juggernaut.
Sparkles: Well Pain & Pleasure are used to biting into more than they can chew. They’ve picked a fight with the Sinistry after all.
Mordecai knew exactly what to anticipate the moment he saw the gleam in Darko’s eyes. Hence why he’s abandoning the ring just as Danny enters it. Skyy and Chase now stand at ringside, watching as Darko steps across the squared circle and stops at the cables that separate him from the massive Mordecai at ringside. Instead of using his fists to throw blows Darko employs his hands to grip a microphone. Skyy hands her husband the very device that will convey his demented thoughts to the equally as demented mind of Mordecai, who surprisingly is all ears at the moment.
Danny: Alright Mordecai, let’s dispense with the bullshit. We both know where this is headed.
Mordecai remains quiet, leaning back in the corner and legitimately listening.
Danny: You and I are going to pretend we can function as a team, there’s going to be a crap load of tension between us the longer we pair together and eventually we’ll disintegrate, things will break down into chaos and there’s a very real possibility that we’ll be leaving each other lying on the canvas in puddles of blood. Sound about right?
Mordecai at last responds, via gestures rather than words. He nods.
Danny: It didn’t have to be that way, Mordecai. Pain & Pleasure could have offered you the opportunity to turn your dark impulses against all those who try to control you. You could have stood beside Skyy, Davids, Denton and I, and we could have given you a proper outlet for that rage that consumes you. Think about it Mordecai, you and I, we could have worked together to massacre the entire Sinistry for believing they could control and use it. But nooo, instead you and that voice you answer to, seem content with making you nothing more than the Sinistry’s goon. Well you know what makes me content, Mordecai?
Darko rushes across the ring and slides under the ropes to the outside of the ring, rushing right at Mordecai. The monster does not back down, charging right back in at Danny as the two come to blows, throwing fists between one another’s faces to a loud outpouring of cheers from the crowd.
Darko: You’re not going to keep Pain & Pleasure from ending the Sinistry! You hear me you big stupid son of a bitch? I will get my hands on Ba’al in this match and nothing you do will keep me from….
Mordecai suddenly catches Darko by the throat, goozling his carotid artery and preparing to chokeslam him onto the announce table.
Greyson: Run Sparkles, run!
Sparkles: How can I run with your hand up my ass?
Greyson: Mordecai is going to chokeslam Darko onto our table.
Darko is heaved into the air by his throat and on the cusp of being driven through the table only to have Danny put his boots down, landing feet first on the table instead of going through it. He quickly throws his knee into the side of Mordecai’s face, sending the menacing figure twisting away from the chokeslam attempt and towards the ring.
Darko should press his advantage over his tag team partner in this Tournament match, but instead he stoops down and grabs a headset off the announce table.
Darko: Fuck Mordecai…FUCK SINISTRY!
Danny leaps off of the announce table right at Mordecai…no…right into his arms. The devilish colossus catches Danny then throws him up to his shoulders. Mordecai then turns towards the ring, heaves Danny into the air by the waistband of his hands and POWERBOMBS Darko kidneys first into the apron.
Greyson: NAAAAH!
Sparkles: OH SHIT!
Darko’s body bounces off of the ring apron and he now collapses to the ground at Mordecai’s feet, the monster staring down at the limp body of his partner. It’s that very same limp body that Vanilla Skyy and Adam Chase are rushing towards, the two charging to the aid of their fellow Pain & Pleasure member. Skyy picks up a chair in the process, rearing back on it and threatening to swing it at Mordecai if he doesn’t step away from Darko. Finally the demonic apparition backs off, leaving Darko to be tended to by Skyy and Chase.
Greyson: Mordecai has just taken out his tag team partner in the tournament.
Sparkles: It couldn’t have worked out anymore perfectly for the Sinistry. Mordecai has all but given their opponents, the SIN Champion Ba’al, and Scott Cannon, a bye into the next round.
BACKSTAGE
Mordecai’s assault on Danny Darko has captured the attention of the Sinistry supporter Kloe Masters. The Majority Owner stands in the gorilla position watching what just happened in the ring with her fingers raised to her lip and her elbow cupped by her palm, taking on a rather confident posture.
Hodgson: Mrs. Masters, I found them.
Kloe spins around and eyes the pleasant smile on Samantha Hodgson’s face and the disconcerting frowns of the Cartel members stood behind her. Alex Clayton, Nate Barlow and Zak Norton solemnly hang their heads as they are forced once again to hear and adhere to the orders of Kloe Masters.
Kloe: Where have you three been?
Neither Zak, Alex and Nate are willing to answer that question.
Kloe: Need I remind you who you work for? Who you’re assigned to protect? I’ve went to that ring twice already tonight and put myself in harm’s way, and where were you when I was placing myself in jeopardy? Huh….HUH? I’m waiting for an answer.
Zak: We don’t have to explain ourselves to you.
Kloe: Oh you don’t, huh? Funny, considering that I hold your contracts. Orlando Cruze gave the three of you to me as a gift.
Zak: He assigned us to protect you, that’s it….
Kloe: No that’s not it. I have your contracts and I have the power to direct you to do whatever I order. Otherwise you’ll be eating the rest of your meals at the soup kitchen. So consider yourselves my own personal toys, and Kloe wants to play.
Alex: What do you want us to do now?
Kloe: Well, I take it you heard what Danny Darko just said out there?
Nate: Nope.
Kloe: Not surprising. He threatened the Sinistry, and by virtue that means he’s threatening me. So I want you three to do something about him.
Alex: Wasn’t attacking his wife on NewAge bad enough?
Kloe: Bad? No. It was RIGHT. You seem to be forgetting this is Kloe’s Law. So stop questioning my orders and do as I say.
Nate: But he just got the crap kicked out of him by Mordecai.
Kloe: No, Mordecai laid the ground work, it’s your job to finish him off.
The Cartel reluctantly step out of focus, leaving the agent Samantha Hodgson to talk to the owner, Kloe.
Hodgson: At last, a woman in charge who shows STRENGTH.
Kloe: Thank you Samantha, and also big thanks for preparing this contract for me.
The document bound to the clipboard is raised from Kloe’s side and now occupies the space between she and Hodgson.
Hodgson: It was my pleasure, Mrs. Masters. And come on, I kind of owed you after you had the Cartel help me with my Vanilla Skyy problem.
Kloe: Speaking of which, Skyy is in the ring at the moment, meaning….
Hodgson: It’s time to show that no good hussy that there are consequences for opposing the House of Hodgson.
Kloe: My thoughts exactly.
Hodgson: Great minds, they do think alike.
Kloe: And it’s time for me, to show Taylor Chase that I’m to be taken seriously. If she doesn’t nullify that stipulation for the World Title match at the End of the Year Special by signing this…
Kloe taps her finger on the contract.
Kloe: I’ll have no other alternative but to have the entire Sinistry crucify her husband and her best friend.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
Taylor: I-I-I can’t believe I’m actually about to do this.
The Number One Contender has been faced with a very tough choice tonight, and right now we see her making an equally as difficult decision. She stands in a corridor looking up at someone off camera, her face showing her varying and conflicting emotions.
Taylor: You saw what Ba’al did to my father?
She waits for an answer but never gets one from whomever remains off camera.
Taylor: And you heard the choice that Kloe is forcing me to make?
Still silence from the individual off camera.
Taylor: I wouldn’t even be talking to you right now about this, if-if you weren’t in a position to help Orlando and Kelcey. You owe me this.
The camera finally turns to reveal the scowl on Scott Cannon’s face as he stands there listening to Taylor make her request.
Scott: You didn’t even have to ask, Tay. I’ll take care of Ba’al.
Taylor: Okay.
Scott: And then, I’ll take care of Silas.
Taylor: Okay.
Scott: And then, maybe YOU can take care of ME.
Taylor: Erm…meaning?
Scott: Once Ba’al’s finished off, and Silas is gone, my purpose on this earth is over. I won’t go on living if you’re not part of my life. So once I’m through protecting you, I need you to put me out of my misery.
MORDECAI & DANNY DARKO VS. BA’AL & SCOTT CANNON: TAG TEAM TITLE TOURNAMENT
Cameras return to the ringside area where Vanilla Skyy is still checking on her husband Danny Darko at ringside. Skyy’s agent Adam Chase is also examining Darko’s condition while the man who put Danny in a bad shape, Mordecai, paces the ring listening to the crowd’s embittered reaction.
Greyson: Well this Lethal Lottery Tag Team Tournament continues, and before the break we saw the landscape of this semi-finals match change drastically when Mordecai powerbombed his own tag team partner, Danny Darko, onto that apron.
Sparkles: These guys weren’t beating around the bush.
Greyson: No they weren’t. Sparkles, no they weren’t.
”Bad to the Bone” begins to play through the speakers, eliciting quite the reaction from an already exhausted crowd. The fans stand and observe the entry way where Scott Cannon has emerged, still wearing the very same Kevlar gloves that he used to threaten Silas Mason with earlier in the night. Cannon undoes the knot in his tie and removes his suit jacket, getting himself ready for the war he is about to endure. Scott pauses at ringside however, staring into the squared circle where Mordecai is standing and is quite eager to get his hands on Cannon.
Sparkles: Man, you almost have to feel for Scott Cannon tonight. He’s in a very tough spot. He went from being booked to team with Taylor Chase tonight to challenge for the Tag Team Titles, to now teaming with Taylor’s worst enemy, Ba’al.
Greyson: Scott is in a very unenviable position, that’s for sure. Is there any way at all that Scott can possibly coexist with the Sinistry in this tag match?
Sparkles: And look at who’s waiting for him in the ring too. Mordecai, the guy who took out both Davids AND Darko here tonight.
Mordecai prepares to partake in even more demented delights, readying his hands to wrap around Scott’s throat. However, his mind is so fixated on his opponent, that he doesn’t even see the wife of Mordecai’s tag team partner sliding into the ring behind him. Vanilla slips in undetected and then avenges the plight befallen her husband with the aid of the ring bell in her clutches. She rushes in behind Mordecai and cracks him straight in the back of the head with the bell. The blow sends Mordecai staggering forward but not losing his balance.
Greyson: Ah-ha-ha, Skyy-VANILLA SKYY, she’s attacking Mordecai!
Sparkles: Sweet vengeance for everything Mordecai has done to Skyy’s teammates in Pain & Pleasure both tonight and throughout the weeks.
Greyson: The Bitch from Barrow strikes.
And her agent, Adam Chase, stands on the apron encouraging her wrath. Skyy drops the ring bell and waits for Mordecai to turn around, stomping her foot repeatedly in anticipation of delivering the White Out. Mordecai slowly begins to spin around and turns right into the bicycle kick that has laid out so many…nooo….Mordecai suddenly lunges forward and catches Skyy by the throat with both hands before she could deliver her devastating kick. Mordecai then throws Skyy into the air and catches her on top of his shoulders before heaving her up into position for the Last Ride style powerbomb onto the ring bell that she brought into the ring.
Sparkles: Mordecai is going to take out ANOTHER member of Pain & Pleasure with that damned powerbomb.
Or at least that was his intention, an intention that never materializes on account of the spear that connects with Mordecai’s ribs. The fans unleash a loud outburst at the sight of Chris Davids, injured back and all sliding into the ring and taking Mordecai out with the Break Thru.
Greyson: DAVIDS!?!
Sparkles: What the fuck!?!
Greyson: I thought he would have been stretchered out of the building after what happened to him in that parking lot a few moments ago.
Chris probably wishes he HAD been carted out of the Manhattan Center after his endorphins stop kicking in and he feels the unbelievable pain coursing through his back and kidneys. He rolls away from Mordecai while Chris classes at his own kidneys. It took everything he had left to hit that spear and now roll to the outside of the ring. The move proved effective however in putting Mordecai down, because now Skyy has landed on her feet and is rushing at the nearest corner. She steps up the corner with her back aimed to Mordecai, who just lies on the canvas looking comatose. Skyy leaps back into the moonsault to a loud reaction….a reaction that changes to shrill screams when Skyy lands on Mordecai only to find HERSELF in dire straits when he reaches up and catches her by the throat. Skyy’s eyes widen as she is pushed along to her feet, Mordecai standing straight up and standing in front of her, on the cusp of chokeslamming her into the canvas.
Greyson: Are you fucking serious? Even after taking the spear, Mordecai has managed to catch Skyy with that goozle.
Sparkles: This is the guy that Leatherface checks under his bed for at night.
Mordecai glares intensely into the eyes of a struggling Skyy, before the big man has his OWN eyes closed via the DARKOLATOR! Danny recovers from the powerbomb into the apron and then delivers the corkscrew kick right across Mordecai’s forehead. The shot has the menacing beast staggering but still remaining on his feet…well, at least long enough to turn around and find his jaw crushed by the White Out. Skyy delivers the bicycle kick that FINALLY knocks Mordecai off of his feet.
Greyson: Pain and Pleasure, they’ve finally got Mordecai down!
Sparkles: Darko coming to the aid of his wife at the last second there.
Greyson: And then his wife kicked Mordecai into next month.
The crowd are at a fevered pitch at this point as they watch Mordecai roll to the outside of the ring where he actually lands on his feet. The creature tries to balance himself but it’s not going to be easy especially when Skyy and Darko are simultaneously rushing across the ring with Danny throwing himself over the ropes and Vanilla diving through them. The two go crashing into Mordecai all at once, knocking all three bodies down to the mats.
Sparkles: GOOD GAHD!
As all of this action takes place outside of the ring it be understandable if the crowd missed the fact that Cannon was now standing in the squared circle. He looks to the outside of the ring where Darko and Skyy are pummeling Mordecai with punches. Scott doesn’t know what to think of this, just standing there and watching this fight consume the ringside area.
Kloe: I’ve been looking for you everywhere Scott.
Cannon spins towards the source of this chilling and unfortunately all too familiar voice. It belongs to Kloe Masters, Majority Owner, who is making her way down the ramp with that contract still in her hands. To the shock of everyone, Cannon primarily, Kloe actually steps up onto the apron, juggling the microphone and the contract.
Kloe: I was hoping the two of us could talk, instead of just going at it over Twitter.
Cannon isn’t here for dialogue with Kloe.
Kloe: Listen, I know you and Tay have had some issues these past few weeks, which tends to happen when the only way you can get any action is by having someone drugged, but I think if you talk to her she’ll listen. You’ve got to convince her that signing this document that nullifies her stipulation for the World Title match against Ba’al, is the best thing for her, and all those she cares about. If you really care about her, you’ll do this….
Scott suddenly reaches out and not only takes the microphone from Kloe, but the contract as well.
Scott: In all of your rambling you managed to get ONE thing correct. I do CARE about Tay, I love her, which is why she and I had a chat before this match and I agreed to do what I do best, I agreed to KILL Ba’al when he comes out here to team with me.
Kloe: Awwww, that’s sad, I don’t think your brother, Michael, is going to like that.
Scott’s expression sours.
Scott: Oh, and there’s just one more thing….
A massive loogie is summoned as Scott spits all of the phlegm in his throat right onto the contract. He then tosses the document back at Masters, who recoils in disbelief. In spite of her shock, Kloe still grins…why? Because Ba’al is sliding into the ring behind his ‘tag team partner.’ Before Scott realizes what’s happening Ba’al is dragging him down to the canvas and spiking him across the back of his head with the Totalis.
Greyson: Kloe distracting Cannon just like she distracted The Brod earlier tonight.
Sparkles: Must be that new haircut of Kloe’s.
Greyson: Careful now, I think Taylor Chase went off on that enough over Twitter.
Cannon grabs at the back of his neck and winces in pain from the inverted bulldog that just laid him out. Meanwhile Ba’al is getting back to his knees, staring down at Cannon and shaking his head.
Ba’al: If only you had listened to the advice of your brother. Taylor will never return your affections, Mr. Cannon. She cares not what happens to you. But I care dear boy. I care immensely. I do not wish to see…..
A shadow is suddenly cast over the kneeling Ba’al, his eyes removed from Cannon and turned towards the man standing beside him…Danny Darko.
Greyson: Ooooooooh shiiit.
Sparkles: It’s about to be on like Donkey Kong playas!
In spite of everything that Darko has been put through this evening, he can still smile and sile wide when seeing the expression on Ba’al’s face.
Darko: I think you and I….have some unfinished business.
Danny dives shoulder first into Ba’al’s ribs, powering him backwards across the ring and driving him spine first into the corner. Darko then begins to drive shoulder after shoulder into Ba’al’s ribs to a HUGE reaction from the crazed Manhattan denizens. They are absolutely delighted by the sight of Darko and Ba’al picking up where they left off at NewAge. Danny’s shoulder continues to ram into Ba’al’s ribs, turning his innards into mincemeat. Danny finally drops into a backwards roll, getting to his feet in the middle of the ring and then charging in for another spear only to have Ba’al get both of his knees up, driving them into the top of Darko’s head.
Danny turns away from his opponent in this Tag Team Tournament, allowing Ba’al the opportunity to rush in behind him, leap into the air and set up for ANOTHER Totalis. However, Darko manages to counter by suddenly spinning around and catching the airborne Ba’al across his chest then swinging him aroiund into a spinning powerslam. Referee Michelle Blacker, who stood idle in the corner of the ring throughout all of this chaos, drops into position and makes the count for Darko.
1
2
Ba’al manages to get his shoulder up and prevent Darko from achieving the victory. Darko never loses his composure, dragging Ba’al up to his feet and then lifting him into the air and holding him upside down, going for the Last Rites. He is just about to drive the top of Ba’al’s head into the canvas and perhaps fracture his neck before Darko’s target shifts his weight, coming back down onto his feet. Ba’al then stands up and heaves Darko over his shoulders into an Alabama Slam position.
Ba’al yanks down on the legs but does not flip Darko over into the modified spinebuster, instead Danny lands on his feet with his arms wrapped around Ba’al’s waist, heaving him up into position for the piledriver yet again. The crowd cheers in response to what they’re about to witness as Darko repeats the very sequence of moves we witnessed two weeks ago. However, this time Ba’al circumvents the repetition of history, sitting up and out of the piledriver predicament. He ends up loaded onto Darko’s shoulders and driving repeatedly punches down into Darko’s face. The blows have Danny disorientated but not to the extent that he can’t rush across the ring and THROW Ba’al into the buckle bomb. Ba’al bounces off the corner and grimaces in pain, staggering forward just enough for Darko to come running in to deliver the lariat…NO….Ba’al shockingly reaches out and catches Danny around the waist before throwing him over head with a belly to belly suplex that sends Danny’s already battered back colliding with the corner.
Greyson: YAAAAH!
Sparkles: Ba’al with quite the threshold for pain.
Greyson: Darko just learned that the hard way.
Danny grabs at his spine and rolls around on the canvas huffing and puffing.
Ba’al grabs at his spine and sits up on the canvas groaning and grumbling.
Finally Ba’al gets to his feet just as his OWN tag team partner, Cannon comes barreling across the ring and drives a forearm into the side of the World Champion’s face. Ba’al just can’t get any love, finding himself on the receiving end of punches and forearms by Cannon, who sends Ba’al staggering back and falling against the very turnbuckle that he just drove Darko into. The crowd begins to heat up as they witness one forearm across the cheek followed by a chop across the chest, connecting repeatedly across Ba’al’s face. The longer Cannon keeps delivering these rapid fire blows the more the crowd gets excited. Eventually everyone is on their feet cheering on this ‘violence party’ being unleashed by Cannon on his Tag Team partner in the corner. Punches and forearms repeatedly drill Ba’al again and again and again and again until the Champion has fallen to his seat in the corner.
Greyson: Look at Cannon go, I’ve lost track of all the blows he just delivered on Ba’al.
Scott: AAAAAH!
Cannon finally detaches from Ba’al, who sits in the corner looking winded by all of these strikes. Just then Scott takes off across the ring, ricochets from the far ropes and then comes charging back in for the face wash. His boot just begins to extend before Ba’al leaps to his feet, catches Cannon around the neck then snaps back, planting Scott’s face right into the middle turnbuckle pad with a downward spiral.
Sparkles: JESUS!
Greyson: Ba’al does it again!
BACKSTAGE
Cameras briefly segue backstage where Team EPIC, Gavin Taylor and Andre Jordan, the defending Tag Champs, are planted on top of steel folding chairs and watching a monitor that plays footage of the ongoing match inside of the ring.
IN RING
Ba’al rolls away from Cannon, the man he is supposed to be teaming with, not fending off. The moment Ba’al reaches his feet he finds the back of his head crushed by a lariat delivered by Darko. The blow knocks Ba’al to the canvas where he rolls to his back and now finds his chest repeatedly stomped by Darko. One stomp after another connects with Ba’al’s torso, and the longer these kicks proceed the louder the fans become. Eventually every fan is standing and going nuts as Darko’s foot becomes nothing but a blur, moving so fast between stomps.
Darko: YEAAAAH!
Darko turns away from Ba’al, so worked up that he doesn’t even realize that he’s still stomping nothing but air at this point. But his boot would be better served not kicking imaginary objects, but his tag team partner. Somehow Mordecai has detached from Skyy and Chase at ringside, has slipped back into the ring and has grabbed hold of Darko’s throat. Before Danny can block it, he’s being heaved into the air and chokeslammed down into the canvas.
Greyson: Do either of these four have any idea what a tag team is supposed to be?
Sparkles: Honestly, we knew going into this that neither of these teams could coexist. It’s like trying to get Shannon Dorothy to get along with her cast-mates on any show she’s ever been part of.
Greyson: A Shannon Dorothy reference? Do you still watch 90210?
Sparkles: Don’t be a hater Lovejoy, so what if I want to live in a time where Luke Perry is still the measuring stick for cool.
Mordecai no sooner unleashes the chokeslam on Darko before Darko is bouncing off the canvas nad right back up to his feet.
Darko: I don’t think so mother-fucker!
Mordecai suddenly spins around wide eyed just as Darko rushes across the ring and nails his partner in the face with the SICK KICK. The diving big boot drills Mordecai across the face and the impact echoes throughout the Manhattan Center. Mordecai goes staggering back into a corner, falling against it while Darko is scrambling up to his feet, looking all fired up. He stands just in time to catch Ba’al coming in and nails him to the gut with a boot, doubling the SIN Champion over. Darko then heaves Ba’al up and onto his shoulders in a powerbomb predicament. The crowd squeals as Danny rushes across the ring and throws Ba’al into a running powerbomb that sends his opponent crashing right into Mordecai in the corner.
Greyson: Ooooh, another buckle bomb into MORDECAI!
Sparkles: You idiot Darko, Mordecai is SUPPOSED to be your partner.
Danny now turns towards Cannon and to the shock of everyone these opponents work as a team. Darko drops to his elbows and knees and Scott rushes across the ring, stepping off of Danny’s back and launching himself into a diving forearm smash that connects with the face of Ba’al. The SIN Champion collapses to the canvas and now Scott turns towards Darko, shouting for him to come rushing. Danny charges towards Scott, who catches Danny to the chest and stomach, lifting him into the air, charging across the ring and throwing Danny like a long dart head and shoulder first into Mordecai’s ribcage.
Mordecai doubles over in the corner, grabbing at his mid-section.
Greyson: This is the craziest situation….Darko and Cannon, OPPONENTS, working as teammates against the Sinistry and all of those in their sphere of influence.
Mordecai remains stooped over in the corner before Cannon comes charging in and delivers a vicious yakuza kick across his cheek. The monster almost collapses out of the corner, but somehow remains upright. So Darko steps to the center of the ring, slaps his forearm then comes rushing across the squared circle and leaves his feet, diving into the another forearm only to have his throat caught. The crowd is stunned as Mordecai backs Danny up to the center of the ring, preparing to chokeslam him. But Cannon won’t let that happen, charging in with a forearm of his own only to run into Mordecai’s OTHER palm. The fans screech at the visual of Mordecai hoisting BOTH Cannon AND Darko into the air with stereo chokeslams.
Sparkles: This BEAST just laid out Darko AND Cannon!
The Manhattan Center fans are screaming as loud as they possibly can at the sight of Mordecai driving both men to the canvas and now teetering between his feet. Mordecai continues to stagger around looking disorientated from all the blows he’s withstood, but centers himself just long enough to spot Darko rolling into the ropes, grabbing hold of them and trying to stand up. Just then Mordecai comes charging in only to have Danny shockingly get a boot up and into the big man’s jaw. The shot sends his tag team partner staggering back, Mordecai trying to get his balance. Now Danny pulls himself up and onto the corner before launching himself off and into hurricarana, but wait, Mordecai catches Darko on top of his shoulders then turns towards the center of the ring where Cannon is forcing himself up to his elbows and knees. Just then Darko is powerbombed right on top of Scott’s back, knocking both men to the canvas amidst a loud roar from the crowd.
Sparkles: HOLY FUCK!
Greyson: Mordecai POWERBOMBING Darko on top of Cannon!
Sparkles: Mordecai is a powerbombing machine here tonight.
Scott and Darko reach for their respective backs after that devastating sequence of events. Eventually Danny rolls away from Cannon and finds himself lying beside the ring bell that his wife brought into the ring before this match officially got underway. Blacker hasn’t had an opportunity to remove that weapon due to all of this anarchy, and she continues to be unable to pitch the bell out of the ring what with checking on the condition of Cannon, asking him rather he can continue after having Darko powerbombed on top of him.
Mordecai shows his strength by stepping in and grabbing Darko’s legs then dead lifting him from the canvas into yet ANOTHER powerbomb…HOLD THE PHONE…Darko has the ring bell in hand and is now swinging it down right into Mordecai’s forehead. The bell chimes against Mordecai’s face, rendering him dead on his feet. He drops Darko to the canvas then staggers back right into the waiting arms of…BA’AL. The SIN Champion catches Mordecai around the thigh, pulling him down and into the school boy. Blacker breaks away from Cannon and drops into position to make the count.
1
2
Ba’al extends his feet and places them over the middle rope, giving him just the added leverage he needs to hold onto the pin and WIN this Semi-Finals match.
Greyson: Hey-HEY-HEEEEEY!!
Sparkles: Did that just happen? Did-did-did…
Greyson: Yes, Ba’al just snuck in and pinned Mordecai.
There is apparently no honor amongst thieves, evident as Ba’al pins the very man who was aiding him in the course of this Tag Team match.
Sparkles: Well Mordecai and Ba’al WERE working together, but technically they WERE opponents in this match.
Greyson: That doesn’t make what Ba’al just did anymore right.
The crowd is absolutely flabbergasted by what they just witnessed, Ba’al picking up the win for his team and falling to the outside of the ring immediately preceding his victory. He collapses to his knees while Mordecai rises to his seat, face twisted into an expression of pure malice. Mordecai takes several deep breaths before slapping the side of his own face and then placing his hands over his ears, listening to the voice inside of his head and nothing else.
Greyson: Do you realize what this means, Sparkles?
Sparkles: That I get to brush Abigail Lindsey’s hair?
Greyson: No. That Scott Cannon and Ba’al have advanced to the finals in this Tournament.
Sparkles: So it’s going to be team CannonBa’al versus Team GOOD in the HOOD versus Team EPIC for the titles later tonight?
Greyson: Indeed. And I wouldn’t trademark those team names just yet.
Mordecai continues to sit on the canvas looking flustered for only a few moments before the voice he hears inside of his cranium says exactly what he needs to hear. Suddenly Mordecai is overcome with a sense of calm…a calm that only comes when his fists are swung at the recovering Darko.
Danny retaliates with blows of his own, both men going back and forth exchanging shots before Skyy and Chase come sliding into the ring to help out their fellow Pain & Pleasure member. An aching Chris Davids slips in as well, trying to be of as much assistance as possible. All three individuals jump on Mordecai’s back as he now finds himself overwhelmed by almost the entire Pain & Pleasure group. He spirals across the canvas and eventually spills through the ropes with Darko, Skyy, Davids and Chase sliding out after him.
Greyson: Pain & Pleasure jumping on Mordecai.
Sparkles: I’m guessing we won’t be seeing Mordecai teaming with Darko again in the future.
Darko and Mordecai aren’t the only team destined for self-implosion. Inside of the ring Cannon is getting to his feet when Ba’al comes sliding in behind him. To Scott’s surprise he finds his wrist caught and his body being dragged to the center of the ring, but Ba’al does not inflict any blows on Cannon, no, he instead lifts Scott’s arm in victory.
Greyson: What strange Tag Team Champions Cannon and Ba’al would make.
Sparkles: They would have to survive each other before they even have a chance to become champions.
Cannon gets over his initial shock and tears his hand out of Ba’al’s clutches, before swinging that same hand around into a punch aimed at his ‘partner’s’ head. However, Ba’al ducks down out of the way and rolls back to the outside of the ring. Scott glares at the smirk drawn over Ba’al’s face, the SIN Champion amused by the rage he seems consuming Cannon, who has stepped up onto the turnbuckle, leering over it at Ba’al and shouting down at him.
Scott: Enjoy this Ba’al, enjoy it while you can, because I’ve got one more crack at you. I’ve got one more chance to do what’s right by Taylor and ENDING you, Champ….
Cannon continues to make these threats before he suddenly finds his body being dragged off of the turnbuckle he was standing on. Scott’s eyes widen as he realizes he’s being powerbombed onto the canvas by…..BRITTANY LOHAN!
Greyson: WHAT!?!
Silas Mason, Brittany’s agent now comes sliding into the ring, and he doesn’t come alone. Sienna Swann, Marie Jones and Angelica Jones all enter the squared circle as well, surrounding the laid out Cannon then immediately putting boots to his body.
Greyson: Silas World coming out of nowhere and assaulting Cannon.
Sparkles: This has to be retribution for Cannon coming after Silas earlier tonight.
Greyson: Cannon has made his intentions for his former agent pretty damned clear in recent weeks, he’s intent on taking Silas out and freeing Taylor Chase and Kelcey Wallace from their servitude to Silas.
Sparkles: Doesn’t look like Silas’ clients are about to let that happen.
Cannon is forced up to his feet by Lohan, who hooks both of his arms then throws him up into the air and spikes him down across the back of his head and shoulders with the Final Solution. The moment Cannon hits the ring, he’s being dragged off of it, up to his feet and then dumped square on his face with the Hot Shot by Marie.
Scott’s forehead ricochets from the canvas and he pops up to his knees just in time to be nailed to the cheek with a scintillating thrust kick by Swann.
Greyson: They’re absolutely mauling Cannon in that ring right now.
Ba’al stands back at ringside watching all of this with a twisted sneer on his face. Finally Cannon is forced up by his arms, which are restricted to his sides by Angelica and Marie, mother and daughter forcing Scott to look into the smile on Silas’ face.
Silas: Ya think Baby Doll’s ever gonna love ya? She ain’t. She’s so far up Orlando’s ass it ain’t even funny. She’ll never forgive ya, but me….I’m a forgiven type. I’m still willin’ to overlook all ya tried to do to me flyboy. There’s still a spot for you at my side. So give up trying to win Baby Doll’s heart, and start focusin on winning back my trust.
Silas punctuates this statement by taking Cannon around the neck then snapping back into the very same evenflow DDT he hit on Shaun Cruze two weeks ago.
Greyson: Silas World decimating one of their own.
Silas at last leads his clients out of the ring where Scott lies, reeling from this assault at the hands of people he once long ago trusted. But Scott does not stay on the canvas for long before Ba’al slips into the ring, kneels beside him and begins to laugh at the plight befallen his tag team partner. Ba’al lifts his fingers into the air and snaps them above his head, coinciding with the lowering of a giant crucifix from the rafters.
Greyson: No…not this…NOT THIS….Not again!
Sparkles: That’s the cross we saw the Brod loaded on earlier tonight.
Greyson: And it may very well be the cross we see Orlando Cruze and Kelcey Wallace put on later on.
The cross reaches the ring and slants against the ropes. The straps hanging from the arm supports soon find themselves wrapped around Scott’s wrists, and his legs are shortly thereafter latched in place. Ba’al then drops to his knees and stretches his arms to his sides as he watches the cross raise towards the rafters with Cannon’s motionless body strapped to it.
Ba’al: Make the right choice Taylor…make the right choice.
The squeals of the crowd are louder than ever at the sight of Cannon hanging from the cross high above the squared circle.
BACKSTAGE
Mordecai spirals through the backstage area trying to protect his head as blows are thrown at his skull from Danny Darko, Vanilla Skyy and Chris Davids. Agent Adam Chase stands behind Pain & Pleasure, cheering them on as all three individuals overcome the monstrous Mordecai, battling him through the corridor. They finally spill through a set of double doors and into the loading bay area, but the second the three Pain & Pleasure members cross over the threshold into this area they find themselves overwhelmed by the Cartel. Alex Clayton, Zak Norton and Nate Barlow were lying in wait for just this opportunity, the three pouncing from the shadows and leaping on Pain & Pleasure after Mordecai lured them into this area.
Nate nails Darko across the back of his head with a clothesline, while Chris finds himself hit in his already battered spine with a forearm by Alex, and Skyy is spun around into a leaping knee across the chin by Zak. The tired and banged up Pain & Pleasure members are sent spiraling towards the open door of a loading trailer and eventually all three individuals spill inside of it. Adam Chase is shouting at the Cartel before he’s grabbed by his shirt, Nate tossing him inside of the trailer as well. Alex drags down on the steel door and slams it shut, trapping almost the entirety of Pain and Pleasure inside of the trailer.
Hodgson: Very good gentlemen…very-very good. Mrs. Masters will be pleased with your actions.
Samantha Hodgson steps into view, quite enjoying the plight that has befallen Darko, Chase, Davids and in particular Skyy.
Hodgson: She’ll be pleased to hear that you followed her orders.
Nate: Get fucked.
Barlow has to be physically restrained from the smiling Hodgson. Eventually Alex and Zak drag Nate away from the agent, who looks like she’s walking on air as she approaches the door to the trailer that Pain and Pleasure are trapped inside of. She knocks on the door now and puts her ear up to its surface.
Hodgson: Veeee…ooooh Veee…can you hear me? I hope the four of you have enough air in there. I’d hate for you to suffocate, hahahaha. Enjoy the rest of your night dear.
Hodgson walks away laughing and passing right by Mordecai, who stood back watching this whole scene unfold with a gleam in his eyes, quite enjoying the suffrage of Pain & Pleasure.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
There are several security guards gathered around a steel loading door backstage, trying to break the lock that has Pain & Pleasure trapped inside of a trailer. The stagehands work with a sense of urgency to shatter the lock and free the four individuals struggling for freedom.
Stagehand: Someone go and find some bolt cutters.
IN RING
Mya: Cupcake….ooooh cupcake….
The crowd is red hot in response to Mya Denton’s lingering presence inside of the ring. The only member of Pain & Pleasure not presently locked in a storage trailer backstage paces the squared circle with a microphone in one hand a burlap sack in the other. Her friends, Lilith Evans and Ian Kilgore are standing at ringside.
Mya: I think you and all your Sinistry buddies have forgotten about lil ole’ Mya. Your probably all standing backstage right now patting each other on the backs for trapping the entire Pain & Pleasure inside of that trailer, but you’re getting a little ahead of yourselves, because you haven’t caught me. So stop celebrating boys and girls, then turn your attention to the ring, because I have a statement to make. A statement you might be VERY interested in hearing.
Denton almost licks her lips in anticipation of dropping her bombshell.
Mya: Not only did you guys throw my Pain & Pleasure buddies in the back of that trailer, but you kidnapped my Goddaughter, Abby, two acts that are inexcusable, and have forced me to take action.
The sack in Mya’s hand is opened and a champagne bottle is removed.
Mya: This is the evidence that implicates you, Desmond, in having me drugged and violated. You spiked the contents of this bottle with ketamine, and there are still trace remnants inside that proves it. If you don’t want me to turn this over to the police, then you’ll come to the ring right now with Abby, return her to me and then try to pry this bottle out of my hand.
The crowd finds this stipulation….intriguing to say the least. Lilith and Ian support this challenge, considering they yearn for the safe return of their daughter Abby.
Mya: I want you in this ring right now, Dessie, and I’m not leaving until you come out and face me like a man.
Greyson: Whoa-whoa, timeout, is Mya actually challenging Desmond Drake to a fight?
Sparkles: I think in Mya’s mind that’s the only way she’ll get Abby, her Goddaughter back.
Greyson: Well we saw on NewAge that Desmond abducted Abby to get out of his indentured servitude to Mya.
Sparkles: Yep, Mya has had control of Desmond testicles after her buyer’s remorse.
Greyson: It’s NOT buyer’s remorse, Sparkles. Mya was drugged and taken advantage of by Desmond, and she has the champagne bottle that was spiked as proof. She’s been threatening to turn that evidence over to the authorities for months if Desmond doesn’t do her bidding.
Sparkles: Yeah, see, Desmond was backed into a corner, he had to do something to get out from under Mya’s thumb.
Greyson: Child abduction crosses the line though, Sparkles.
The fans are solidly behind Mya and her pursuit of closure with Desmond and the salvation of her Goddaughter.
Mya: Come on Desmond. Bring Abby out here and then put your bubble butt in this ring so I can kick it, because I’m not leaving until I get a fight. You hear that, give me a FIGHT!
Her demands for a fight are finally met, but it’s not Desmond Drake answering her challenge. Instead we see a man on his last legs being shoved through the curtains. Eric Sailes, who looks like he just went ten rounds in a bare knuckle brawl with Mike Tyson, staggers along to the stage and instantly doubles over grabbing at his banged up mid-section. After enduring the beating he received at the hands of JaMarcus Avery this evening, it’s obvious that Sailes isn’t in any condition to survive a second match. Lilith and Ian shake their heads at ringside, realizing that this is not Desmond.
Mya: What are you doing out here? You’re not the one I want to fight.
Suddenly referee Michelle Blacker charges past the staggering Sailes, slides into the ring and calls for the bell, starting this match.
MYA DENTON VS. ERIC SAILES
The bell rings in the background as Sailes comes sliding into the ring. The second he gets to his knees a shining wizard crushes his face. Mya delivers the Demented and has an unconscious Sailes pinned within seconds.
1
2
Blacker’s hand swings down into the canvas, bringing an abrupt end to this, Eric Sailes’ SECOND match this evening.
Greyson: It’s over? Already?
Sparkles: You shouldn’t have sneezed Lovejoy, you missed the whole thing.
Greyson: Poor Sailes, that’s the second loss he’s suffered here tonight.
Mya is back up on her feet within seconds of finishing off Sailes and is already gathering up a microphone.
Mya: What was that Dessie? Huh? Did you think that was going to do it for me? No? I said it had to be YOU who come out here to fight me. Otherwise, you’re never getting your hands on this….
The champagne bottle is raised from the canvas.
Mya: Bring Abby back to me and then…..
Drake: Come off it Mya…
The jeers are quite deafening at the sight of Desmond Drake making his way through the curtains and to the stage. There is quite the pep and arrogance in the step of the diminutive Principle Owner, who finds himself followed to the stage by Jaina Frost, who has a hand on the shoulder of Abby, Mya’s Goddaughter. Jaina and Desmond stand on the stage with their captive caught between them, struggling to get free and rush back down the ramp to get to Mya.
Drake: You don’t want me to come to that ring, because everyone knows that I’m too much man for you to handle.
Mya rolls her eyes.
Drake: In fact, I’m too much man for ANY one woman to handle. So no, you’re not getting your hands on my smoking hot bod.
Mya gags.
Drake: I’m through doing as you order. I’ve already been superkicked in the fact by Lasiewicz, and had my tooth knocked out by Lukas Montgomery because you put me in matches against those psychopaths. And poor William Mayne, my former SIN commentator, he’ll never be the same after what Montgomery did to him two weeks ago because of you.
Mya blushes.
Drake: I’m not coming to that ring to fight you. Instead let me be the sole voice of reason here. I have something you want, you have something I want. So I suggest we make a trade. You give me this ‘evidence’ implicating me in drugging you, and I’ll give you back Abby. That will put us both at Even Steven.
Mya mulls it over, rubbing at her chin. Lilith and Ian shout at her from ringside to accept the deal.
Mya: Fine Desmond.
Drake: I thought you’d see things my way.
Jaina leads Abby down the ramp with Drake stood in front of the ladies, leading them to the ring. All three individuals reach the squared circle where Desmond extends his hand asking for the bottle in Mya’s clutches.
Mya: Nuh-uh, first you hand over Abby.
Drake: I’m not stupid Mya. We do this at the same time or we don’t do this at all.
Both individuals tentatively reach out, Desmond taking hold of the champagne bottle and Mya taking hold of Abby’s wrist. At the same time both the little girl and the bottle are exchanged. An excited Desmond hops around in the ring, flailing the bottle overhead and then high fiving Jaina. All the while Mya wraps her arms around her Goddaughter, the two embracing in a hug.
Drake: FREEDOM! FREEDOM!
A laughing Drake exits the ring with Jaina following, the two almost skipping up the ramp.
Mya: Oh-wait-wait….
Neither Frost nor Drake have any intention of waiting to hear what Mya has to say. Nevertheless Denton stands up and says what she really needs to get off her chest, all the while guiding her Goddaughter into the arms of Lilith and Ian.
Mya: Dessie, hold on, when you said you wanted me to turn over the evidence, did you mean ALL of the evidence.
The breaks screech as Desmond comes to an abrupt stop, his whole body freezing then turning ever so slowly towards the ring where he is forced to bear witness to Mya’s grin.
Mya: Because I just so happened to come into possession of a little piece of potentially damning evidence….
Drake: Your-your-lying!
Mya: Am I, Dessie, am I really?
Drake looks towards Jaina for guidance, who is too busy picking her nails with a little knife to pay much attention, let alone offer a suggestion.
Mya: Are you willing to take that chance?
Drake: What do you want?
Mya: I already said what I want. I want a fight, and you’re going to give me one. In fact, you’re going to give me AND my friends in Pain & Pleasure a fight. Book a tag team match at the End of the Year Special.
Drake: Ugh…
Mya: Give me a chance to finish. Because you haven’t let me get to the competitors in that match. I was thinking that I want it to be me, Darko, Skyy and a partner of our choosing versus any member of the Cartel, based off what they did to Skyy. That annoying Flash Silver guy, considering that he keeps claiming that he beat Darko. That monster Mordecai, reason needs no explanation. And….hmmm…who else…who else can team up against Pain & Pleasure? Let me think about it for a moment…oh yeah…YOU!
Drake’s face goes as white as Elmer’s Glue.
Drake: You must be out of your mind….
Mya: If you agree to be part of that match and face Pain & Pleasure, you’ll get all of the evidence I have and the two of us will never have to see each other again.
The temptation is too much for Desmond to pass up.
Drake: Alright, your-your-ON!
The fans go nuts over the announcement of this blockbuster tag team match.
Mya: Awesome. It sounds like we’ve got all our lil duckies in a row then….oh wait…I totally forgot to mention who our tag team partner will be.
Drake: Like it even matters.
Oddly enough Desmond’s confidence seems to be growing.
Drake: With a team like Mordecai, the Cartel and Flash Silver standing beside me, there’s no one you can pick as part of your team that would….
”Enemy” hits the PA system and immediately causes Drake’s gold teeth to begin rattling. He spins around with a panic stricken expression on his face, staring up the stage at the very man who knocked out one of his front teeth, Lukas Montgomery. The crowd is going absolutely nuts at the sight of Lukas, who stares down the ramp at a terrified Desmond.
Mya: Pain & Pleasure’s tag team partner will be, LUKAS MONTGOMERY.
BACKSTAGE
The loading bay area continues to be filled with the sounds of urgent stagehands still fighting to break a lock. At last a set of bolt cutters are being employed on the padlock holding a steel door in place that contains four members of Pain & Pleasure inside of a storage trailer. It takes all of their strength but the lock is at last shattered and the door instantly flies up, revealing Danny Darko, Vanilla Skyy, Chris Davids and Adam Chase dying to get out. They almost tumble over one another as they climb out of the storage unit with Darko and Skyy scanning their surroundings.
Darko: Where are they?
Stagehand: Who?
Skyy: Where’s that bitch Hodgson?
Stagehand: I haven’t a clue.
Skyy: Your useless then, come on Danny.
Darko: I’m right behind you.
Darko and Skyy aid Chris Davids along between them, his body still suffering from that powerbomb on the hood of the car he took earlier tonight. Yet in spite of their maladies, Pain & Pleasure are off in hot pursuit of the Cartel and Samantha Hodgson. They almost completely forget about their agent, Adam Chase, who finally emerges from the trailer with his shirt wrapped around his head, forming a bandana, and huge pit stains in the white t-shirt that clings to his body. The second he steps out of the trailer Chase falls to his knees and begins to kiss the pavement.
Chase: I’m FREE…GOOD GOD ALMIGHTY I’M FREE!
He goes on kissing the ground then spitting out the grime on his lips.
Chase: I didn’t think I’d ever get out of there….
Chase’s words are directed at a nearby stagehand still holding bolt cutters.
Chase: Here.
A Gatorade bottle filled with a yellow substance is thrust directly into the Stagehand’s chest.
Chase: I had to tinkle.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
Mere moments after surprising the world with the announcement that he would be joining the team of Pain & Pleasure at the End of the Year Special, Lukas Montgomery strolls into the backstage area. In spite of all the aggravations he’s suffered over the past few weeks, Montgomery still wears a smirk, even when coming face to…well….face to KNEES with an angered Desmond Drake. The Principle Owner looks more than a little upset standing there in the backstage area and looking up into the face of the Blacklist’s Montgomery, the very man who busted one of Drake’s teeth.
Drake: You’ve got some nerve.
Lukas: What’s wrong short round? Worried that I’m going to knock out a few more of your bicuspids at the End of the Year Special?
Desmond rubs his gold tooth.
Drake: What are you thinking, Lukas? Huh? Haven’t you gotten enough from the Sinistry yet? Wasn’t putting you through those flaming tables last week enough to make you realize you’re fighting a losing battle?
Lukas: Winning….losing….doesn’t really matter how the battle turns out, Desmond, what matters is that I picked a side and went to war.
Drake: You’ve picked the wrong side. And I swear to God if you so much as put a finger on me, or my friends again I’ll….
Lukas: Hahahaha…wow…WOW…your threatening me?
Lukas wipes a tear from his eye.
Lukas: Thanks Desmond, I needed that laugh.
Drake: No, I’ll tell you what you need.
To Lukas’ disbelief Desmond actually charges at him, tiny fists swinging wildly at a stunned Montgomery’s body. The smile on Lukas’ face widens as he now reaches out and places his palm directly to Drake’s forehead, holding him back just far enough for Desmond’s short arms to never land anywhere close to Lukas’ body.
Lukas: Seriously, Desmond? What do you hope to gain from this? You actually think you’re going to hurt me?
Drake: No, but I am distracting you.
Suddenly a steel chair cracks Montgomery over the spine, causing him to double over and wince in pain. The chair was swung by ANOTHER of Montgomery’s victims, William Mayne. The man left in a neck brace at the hands of Montgomery drives the chair straight into Lukas’ kidneys, staggering the Blacklist member. Montgomery stoops but does not go down to the concrete as Mayne had anticipated. He slowly stands up and turns his fierce eyes towards a back peddling Mayne. The former SIN commentator’s lower lip trembles as he realizes he just made a huge mistake.
Mayne: It was…it was all HIS idea.
Mayne points to the area where Desmond WAS standing…not anymore, Drake having high tailed it and left his friend to the compassionless Lukas.
Mayne: Desmond? Desmond? Where are you!?!
Lukas: I think your buddy has hit the yellow brick road.
At last Mayne realizes that Desmond has left him in the lurch….AGAIN.
Mayne: Mr. Montgomery…I-I…there was a tick on your back, I was just trying to squash it.
Lukas: Suuuureee, well…
Lukas picks up the chair that Mayne mistakenly struck him with.
Lukas: I think I see a bug on your head, and I’m going to smash that too.
Mayne: No…noooo! HELP!
William almost collapses from a cardiac arrest at the sight of Montgomery stepping towards him with the chair raised in his palms.
Mayne: Somebody help!
The horrified William almost collapses over his own feet as he scurries down the corridor with Montgomery nipping at his heels.
IN RING
Samantha Hodgson: Mrs. Taylor Chase….
The crowd is just as remorseless as Lukas Montgomery, unleashing hell on Samantha Hodgson. She steps through the curtains with a microphone in one palm and a contract in the other. The always clever and incredibly shrewd businesswoman has the Cartel watching her back as she heads down the ramp. A disgruntled Zak, Alex and Nate may be following Hodgson, but they clearly do not want to be joining her on her way to the ring.
Hodgson:….I think you’ve had more than enough time to make a decision.
Once in the ring Samantha holds up the contract that SHE personally put together, the very contract that Majority Owner Kloe Masters has been demanding that Taylor sign throughout the night.
Hodgson: Kloe Masters not only trusted me with the task of having this contract put together that will nullify your World Title stipulation, but I have the esteemed honor of being the one who gets you to sign it.
The contract is raised high to ensure everyone, Taylor Chase in particular, gets a great view of it.
Hodgson: Please Mrs. Chase, I implore you on behalf of your family and your friends, to come to this ring this instant and sign. Do you really want to see your husband, and your beloved Kelcey, suffer in the same way that your father, and your associate Mr. Cannon have? Surely you wouldn’t wish them to be crucified tonight. You couldn’t possibly be so barbaric. No one else has to get hurt. There don’t have to be anymore crucifixions. Save your husband, save your best friend, sign this contract, do what’s right by them….
Vanilla: She IS doing what’s right by Orlando and Kelcey.
The reaction for Vanilla Skyy is polar opposite to the one that Hodgson was greeted with. Samantha turns to the entry way with a sneer when spotting Skyy, the very same woman she locked in a storage trailer earlier tonight, making her way down the ramp. However Skyy never makes it all the way to the ring, pausing at the midway point of the ramp and staring at the three man who form a protective bubble around Hodgson.
Hodgson: Who let you out of your cage, Vee? Hahahaha, and what do you hope to accomplish by coming down that ramp. Do you want me to make a fool of you for a fourth straight week? Hahahahaha…oh I’m ever so delightful aren’t I?
Skyy: Hahahahaha…
At first it appears Vee is legitimately laughing along with Hodgson, but even when Samantha’s giggles stop, Vee’s continues. She chuckles in exaggerated fashion, dropping to the ramp at this point and actually rolling back and forth clutching at her ribs as if her lungs were about to explode. Finally she sits up, pretends to dry her eyes and ceases the fake laughter.
Skyy: Good one Sam. Who knew you were so hysterical.
Hodgson: I’m surprised you can understand my sophisticated brand of humor, what with being the common street trash that you are.
Skyy: Me, trash?
Hodgson: You conduct yourself like garbage, and I was very glad to throw you out like the trash you were several weeks ago. And if you had the courage to step into the ring with me here again tonight, you would get the exact same treatmen…
Skyy: Okay.
This was not the response Hodgson expected to hear out of Skyy, especially with the Cartel standing behind her. The agent finds herself even more surprised to see Skyy making her way down the ramp and onto the apron.
Hodgson: Are you crazy? Have you forgotten what I, and the Cartel, have done to you?
Skyy: Some people have accused me of having a selective memory, but you better believe I haven’t forgotten what you did to me earlier, and what the Cartel did to me on NewAge.
Hodgson: And yet you’ve learned nothing from all of this?
Skyy: Ooooh, I wouldn’t say that.
The crowd suddenly comes alive when Danny Darko leaps up onto the apron behind the Cartel having just emerged from the crowd. The three men have no idea that Darko is climbing up onto the top turnbuckle before he’s already leaping off into a crossbody that connects with the dangerous trio. The four individuals collapse to the canvas that Darko is rolling across before dropping under the ropes. Zak, Alex and Nate are gathering themselves and going right after Darko, pursuing him up the ramp and through the curtains. Hodgson stood back watching all of this chaos unfold with her hands sliding into her hair, but it’s more than her locks that will be tussled.
Skyy: For instance, I learned how to get rid of your protection…and you want to know what else I’ve learned?
Skyy leaps across the ring and into the White Out only to have Hodgson duck her head at the last second, doing precisely what she’s done over the past couple of weeks by avoiding the boot aimed at her face. She then rolls to the outside of the ring and backs up the ramp with the contract still in her hand and the mic in the other. She puts it to use to laugh at Skyy who is still standing in the ring.
Hodgson: No Skyy, you learned nothing at all, because you will never…NEVER hit me with that move of yours and you will NEVER pin me in that ring….
Skyy: Ooooh Sam, who said anything about pinning you?
Once again Hodgson’s face twists into a look of confusion, an expression exacerbated by the arrival of Skyy’s agent Adam Chase. He steps through the curtains pushing a huge garbage can on rollers with a locked lid. Hodgson looks over her shoulder at the can that draws closer and closer to her.
Hodgson: And what is this supposed to symbolize?
Skyy: What I think of you, and what the whole of the IWC thinks of that contract you had written up. It’s time for both you, and that document to go in their rightful place bitch.
Skyy rolls out of the ring and goes charging straight up the ramp where Hodgson realizes she’s trapped between a rock and a hard place. She looks between Chase, who is blocking her exit through the curtains, to Skyy rushing up the ramp. But Hodgson, like a girl-scout, plans for any scenario. She drops her microphone, reaches under her suit jacket and grabs a lead pipe from her waistband, one that she swings right into the inbound ribs of Skyy.
The stiff blow has Vanilla doubled over, her ribs possibly fractured by this impact. Laugher once again emanates from Hodgson, who stoops down beside Skyy, picking up the contract and wedging it to the side of Vee’s face.
Hodgson: It’s inevitable Vee, Tay WILL sign this contract just like I WILL always get the better of you. Do you get that now Vee, or are your insides screaming too loud for you to hear me?
Samantha goes as far as to poke Vee in the side of her face.
Hodgson: You will NEVER get the better of m….AAAAAH!
The finger that Hodgson was poking at Skyy with is caught right in-between Vee’s teeth. She bites down Samantha’s digit, causing the agent to squeal at the top of her lungs and stomp her feet repeatedly from the pain coursing through her hand. Finally Vee spits out the finger, then picks up the contract and the clipboard it’s attached to before swinging it right into the top of Hodgson’ skull. The devastating collision echoes throughout the arena and sends Hodgson spinning with her back to the trashcan that Vee’s agent now has the lid pulled back on.
Somehow Samantha gets her balance but only long enough for Skyy to lunge into the White Out, her pump kick NAILING Hodgson in the forehead and knocking her back into the trashcan. Skyy then grabs the lid of the can and swings it shut to a HUGE reaction from the crowd.
Everyone in attendance basks in the vision of Hodgson being kicked into the trashcan with Skyy slamming the lid closed, trapping Samantha inside. Skyy no sooner takes out the trash before picking up the contract that Hodgson had written up to negate Taylor’s challenge for the World Title. Skyy lifts up the lid of the trashcan and tosses said contract inside, right on top of the body of an unconscious Hodgson.
Once more the lid is slammed shut and Skyy has at last vindicated herself against Samantha Hodgson while also throwing a major wrinkle into the Sinistry’s plans. Greyson and Sparkles finally chime in to give the moment the recognition it requires.
Greyson: Yes….YES…Skyy knocks Hodgson into that trashcan with the White Out.
Sparkles: What a moment.
Greyson: And Pain & Pleasure continues to be a thorn in the side of the Sinistry, tossing that contract Kloe has been trying to get Tay to sign in the trash right alongside Hodgson.
Sparkles: Skyy better be careful that she isn’t crucified next.
BACKSTAGE
The Cartel members, Nate, Zak and Alex resemble a tornado cutting through the backstage area, knocking over any items that might get in their way. It appears that trio are flustered by what just happened in the ring when Danny Darko assaulted them. Although they didn’t want to be in that ring to begin with to protect Samantha Hodgson, they don’t care for the way they were taken out of it, hence why they are very difficult to approach at the moment. That still doesn’t stop Kloe Masters from giving it a try however, stepping towards her subordinates with a look of frustration on her face.
Kloe: What was that?
Alex, Nate and Zak exchange glances.
Alex: What was what?
Kloe: I sent you three out there to protect Hodgson and coerce Taylor into signing that contract. So tell me why Samantha is lying in a trashcan right now and there’s no signature on said contract.
Zak: Because Hodgson is a loud mouthed bitch who writes checks with her mouth that her body can’t cash.
Kloe: Excuse me?
Alex: You heard him.
Nate: We’re not Samantha’s bodyguards, and we’re not your errand boys.
Kloe: You’re not? Hmmmm. Then maybe you don’t want to be employed either.
The Cartel take deep breaths in a valiant attempt to compose themselves.
Kloe: How many times must I remind you who pays your hefty salaries? Not Orlando, not Taylor Chase, ME, Kloe Masters. Now do something right for once and follow my orders. Go find that trashcan Skyy stuffed Hodgson in, help Samantha out of it and grab the contract while you’re at it.
The bitter Cartel members do as their told rather than risking being blackballed from this wrestling industry. They walk off just as Silas Mason walks in. Silas is surprisingly on his own as he approaches Kloe, who does not look shocked at the sight of the man desperately clinging to his control over Taylor Chase and Kelcey Wallace, a control that has all but slipped away after recent events in Supreme Championship Wrestling.
Kloe: Silas, so glad to see you could make time for me. I just wanted to say that I truly…TRULY loved what you did out there to Scott Cannon.
Silas: Was unfortunate, but necessary.
Kloe: Indeed. Speaking of doing what’s necessary. I hope you’ve had time to consider that proposal I made to you on NewAge. Regarding the consolidation of Silas World and the Sinistry?
Silas: I’ve given it some thought, but I haven’t made up my mind jus yet.
Kloe: Of course. You need some time to think about it, I respect that.
Silas: I tell ya what might go a long-long way in possibly sealin’ a deal between us Baby Rose.
Kloe: Go on.
Silas: Well it struck me that maybe Scott isn’t gettin’ the point jus yet. That I need to make myself a bit clearer when it comes to why he needs my services as his agent.
Kloe: I’m guessing you’re going to ask ME for a favor. How come you didn’t go to McBride?
Silas: Karen and I ain’t seein’ eye to eye at the moment. She lacks VISION. You on the other hand, I think ya got a keen mind, you and I are gettin’ on the same level.
Kloe: You flatter me, Sir.
Silas: That’s why I made sure my plan benefits the both of us.
Kloe: Go on.
The plotting eyes of Mason sweep his surroundings to make sure no one is lingering about to hear him whisper his plans into Kloe’s ears. The more she hears the redder her cheeks become.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
A microphone clutching Mark Comeau stands in front of the Trainer’s Office with the backstage correspondent clinging to a microphone and a sense of urgency in his tone.
Mark Comeau: Big surprise ladies and gentlemen, the injuries just keep piling and piling up tonight. I’m about to get word on one of those injuries at the moment. Earlier tonight Scott Cannon was assaulted by Silas World and left hanging from a cross by Ba’al, and I’ve got Head Trainer ‘Surly’ Sam here with me to find out what his condition is at the moment.
The camera pulls back to reveal the snide look on ‘Surly’ Sam’s face, the Head Trainer stood outside of his office and looking disgruntled to have to appear on camera.
Mark: So Sam, can you tell us how Sc….wait-wait-wait, you know what, before I ask about Cannon’s condition, can you tell me why your still here?
’Surly’ Sam: What do you mean by that?
Mark: Didn’t Kloe Masters say she was going to fire you two weeks ago for falsifying Danny Darko’s medical reports?
’Surly’ Sam: I’m sorry to say that reports of my firing have been greatly exaggerated. And why would Kloe fire me when I was only doing what she asked me to do?
Mark: So Masters WAS the one who ordered you to….
’Surly’ Sam: Let’s not get into that right now, you came here to ask about Scott’s physical well being, right?
Mark: Indeed. I, and the rest of the world, want to know the severity of his injuries, and if they’ll keep him from competing in the finals of the Tag Team Tournament.
’Surly’ Sam: I’m in the process of subjecting Cannon to some strenuous impact testing at the moment to determine rather he’s suffered a concussion. But I can tell you that after a short physical examination that Scott has some herniated disks in his back and in his neck, and because of that, it’s my medical opinion that Scott should not compete in the finals of the Tag Team Tournament.
Mark: So Cannon is out of the tournament?
’Surly’ Sam: I know I won’t be giving him medical clearance.
Mark: So what does that mean in regards to the three way Tag Team Title match about to take place?
’Surly’ Sam: Pff…that’s for the big wigs to decide. I’m just a humble Head Trainer, nothing more. All I can tell you, is that I’m not giving Scott clearance….
Gavin: Speaking of clearance.
With their Tag Team Title defense just mere seconds away, Team EPIC, Gavin Taylor and Andre Jordan step into view. And just because we haven’t seen enough contracts and documents throughout the night, Gavin holds a paper in his hand that he extends in ‘Surly’ Sam’s direction.
’Surly” Sam: What’s that?
Gavin: My doctor’s excuse.
Andre: And don’t worry. It’s from an actual medical professional.
Gavin: You can tell because it’s not written in crayon.
’Surly’ Sam tentatively takes the document from Gavin’s hand before examining the bruising and swelling in Gavin’s arm. It’s crudely tucked under some ace wrap.
’Surly’ Sam: Hmmm. You don’t look to be in fighting shape in my opinion.
Gavin: Well someone obviously thinks I am.
Gavin jabs at the paper with his extended finger.
Gavin: My arm might not be pretty, but it’s in good enough shape to go out there and wrestle this match.
Andre: Kordy really did fuck up that arm pretty bad.
Gavin: I’ve had worse.
Andre: You’ve had worse than a giant storage crate being dropped on your arm?
Gavin: That’s not even the worst thing that happened to me this week. Anyway, my arm is just fine…well actually it is as long as I take about half a bottle of Tylenol every morning….but I’m still good to go. No worries. Just try not to let anyone touch my arm out there and I’ll be fine. Oh, and as long as a strong wind doesn’t hit my arm I’m great. Plus, you might not want to look in my arm’s direction, for some reason that makes it sting too.
Andre: I’ll try to keep that all in mind.
Gavin: Great. Let’s get out there then and prove why we’re the greatest thing to happen to Tag Team wrestling since they paired Owen Hart with Koko B Ware.
Andre: Hmmm.
Gavin: Our team really needs a parakeet by the way.
Andre: I’ll think about it.
Dre and Gavin head out for the ring where they’ll compete in perhaps the most hotly anticipated tag team match in IWC history, where the championships will be up for grabs. In ‘Surly’ Sam’s mind, Team Epic couldn’t have left any sooner. Now all the Head Trainer has to deal with is Comeau, who lingered behind for God only knows what reason.
’Surly’ Sam: Why are you still here?
Mark: I’ve got nowhere else to go.
’Surly’ Sam: Well that’s YOUR problem. I’ve got a patient waiting for me.
With the document in hand the Head Trainer steps into his office where the patient he eluded to comes into view. A catatonic Kordy sits on a cot and stares forward with hollow eyes, totally unresponsive to the Head Trainer and her precious Stranger. The masked man stands beside Kordy, leaning with the small of his back against the cot and his arms crossed over his chest.
’Surly’ Sam: So how long has she been like this?
The Stranger: Since she was attacked by Tina Valentine.
Though the Stranger talks about Kordy, his eyes are focused entirely on the document in Sam’s palms.
The Stranger: Pardon my impertinence, but is that Gavin Taylor’s medical record?
’Surly” Sam: That’s none of your business.
Kordy: No….
At last Kordy opens her mouth for the first time since she was silenced by Tina Valentine with that trashcan assault. Her words may be directed at Sam, however her eyes are not, they just glare at the wall without a blink.
Kordy: Anything that has to do with Gavin, is KORDY’S business.
The Stranger slowly closes the door to the Trainer’s office, trapping an alarmed ‘Surly’ Sam inside, nervously clutching to Gavin’s medical record.
LETHAL LOTTERY FINALS
Once more that gothic rendition of Ring Around the Rosies plays over the speakers and the SIN Champion Ba’al emerges through the curtains. He steps to the stage flanked by his wife Rachel Foxx, and head of SIN Security Hunter Locke. Rachel clutches her husband’s title while following him down the ramp and into the ring where a microphone is waiting to be delivered to him. He snatches it right out of the time keeper’s hands and outright ignores the vile and hatred surging from the Manhattan Center crowd in response to everything he’s done here tonight to so many undeserving victims, with who knows how many more on the verge of being added to the list of casualties.
Greyson: Isn’t the fact that you’re in the ring bad enough, Ba’al? Do you have to rub salt in our wounds?
Sparkles: I got something his wife can rub.
Greyson: Spaaaaaarrrklllless. If you get me crucified I swear to God I’ll never forgive you.
Sparkles: Speaking of crucifixions, we’ve already seen two tonight, will there be more throughout the course of this Tag Title match?
Greyson: This is what the whole night has been building towards, Sparkles. Ba’al and his partner Scott Cannon, survived….well…Ba’al did at least….a semi-finals match to get this title opportunity where he and….I have no clue who is partner is going to be now….will be competing against the Tag Team Champions, and the team of Alana Starr and Tina Valentine with the belts on the line.
Sparkles: After what has been an absolutely C-R-A-Z-Y type of night thanks to the Lethal Lottery nature of the tournament that brought us to this title bout.
All of the events that transpired before this contest are recounted by Ba’al, who puts to use the microphone that waited for him in the ring.
Ba’al: Are each of you surprised to see me standing in this ring prepared to fight for the Tag Team Titles? I know our lovely number one contender for my SIN Championship must be. She harbored the foolish notion that Scott Cannon would assassinate me in the Semi Finals match and keep me from not only winning the Tag Titles, but seeing her husband and best friend strung from the rafters on a crucifix. Yet once again I managed to disrupt Mrs. Chase’s plans, and instead it was Scott Cannon who suffered the grimmest of fates during our Semi-Finals match. The same punishment will be inflicted upon the man of her dreams, and her most revered ally. I will personally string them up on their respective crosses then dance in the shower of blood that rains down from their bodies as they ascend towards the heavens. Her father could not prevent me from doing so to him earlier tonight, and neither could Cannon.
Poor misguided Scott thought he would gravely injure me to prove his devotion to Taylor, but my devotion proved stronger than his own, for I do not fight on behalf of love, I fight on behalf of salvation. If Scott were strong or smart enough, he would have stood beside me and found that salvation himself. His actions this evening cost him the grand opportunity to compete for the Tag Team Titles. But do not fret children, for I have found a partner deserving the recognition of standing beside me. I am speaking of an individual who demonstrated that he is a strong and competent ally, a man who plays his role so deftly. My partner this evening in the finals of this tournament is….Hunter Locke.
The crowd has a rather harsh reaction, especially as Locke steps forth and towers ever so menacingly behind Ba’al’s back.
Ba’al: Your devotion to my family has sorely been appreciated over the past several months, Mr. Locke, and I will see your services rewarded with this opportunity.
Locke’s silence is chilling, even when he manages to produce a half smirk.
Gavin: Whoa, back it up, back it up, back it up!
At last the crowd has a reason to react with delight as opposed to dread. The Tag Team Champions, Gavin Taylor and Andre Jordan, Team EPIC make their way to the stage and are instantly starting down the ramp. In spite of his arm looking as colorful as a box of Crayola markers its Gavin who leads the march down the ramp. Andre has to struggle just to keep up with Gavin, who is rather emotional when replaying the events of the night in his mind.
Gavin: I’ve kept my mouth shut for long enough Frost. I’ve sat on the sidelines worrying about my own selfish needs to the detriment of friends and family. That’s about to end, and end right here.
Gavin moves up the steps and to the apron with Jordan sliding under the cables and getting to a knee, glaring at the Sinistry forces with an intimidating expression.
Gavin: You put my father in law on a cross tonight, big-big mistake, because your actions, they’ve pulled me into the middle of this war. I’m not sitting on the sidelines anymore. It’s time to get off the bench and get my ass in the game.
Andre takes the microphone from his fired up partner.
Andre: And we’re not just a bunch of towel boys. We’re GAME CHANGERS. I’ve been saying it for weeks, I’m IWC through and through, and thanks to what you did to the Brod, now Gavin is as devoted to fighting for this federation as I am.
Ba’al: You know nothing of devotion. You are shiftless and ego driv….
Gavin: Blah-blah-blah! You got lucky the last time you faced Team EPIC, Ba’al, we weren’t on the same page back in that tag team hardcore match. It’s a different story here tonight, and we owe the unity between Team EPIC, to the Sinistry.
Andre: You created a monster, Frost.
Gavin: It’s ALIVE…IT’S ALLLIIIVEEE!
Gavin and Andre rush across the ring and the fight is on. Locke trading shots with Andre and Gavin teeing off on Ba’al.
Sparkles: The third team isn’t even out here yet you jackasses!
Greyson: Gavin and Andre aren’t waiting for Team GOOD in the HOOD, they’re sending a message to the Sinistry after what Ba’al did to Gavin’s father in law earlier tonight.
The rapid succession of strikes at last have Ba’al and Locke staggering back before both men decide to high tail it from the ring when Dre and Gavin simultaneously lift their feet to deliver stereo superkicks. The Champion and his Protector fall to the mats standing on opposite sides of Rachel, who is trying to talk strategy with her husband. He is hard pressed to listen given the anger he directs at the pair still lingering in the ring. Gavin leans over the ropes shouting at Ba’al to get back in the ring.
Alana Starr: Give it up boys.
The crowd is going to need a shrink after this night considering how the IWC just keeps playing with their emotions. They only got a split instant of euphoria before Alana Starr and her agent Ethan Von Aaron came to rain on their parade. The pair are already making their way down the ramp with Alana wearing her X-Class Title around her waist and tightly clasping a microphone. Andre’s eyes are fixed on Alana and never blink as the Goddess of GOODness drawls closer and closer to the ring.
Alana: There’s no point in arguing about who’s fighting for what. It doesn’t matter if you’re fighting for the IWC, or if you’re fighting for the Sinistry, because the power of GOOD is about to trump all else.
The glare that Andre beams in Alana’s direction is shot right back at him as she moves to the apron.
Alana: Listen you fudging thug, I’m sick of hearing you try to masquerade yourself as a hero. Hero’s don’t put their hands on my defenseless Papi. You’re lucky I don’t go to your home and slap your mother across her face, but she’s already heinous enough as is. So I guess I’ll just have to get payback for my Papi by taking those tag straps off your shoulders.
Andre drops the belt from his shoulder willingly and then rushes across the ring and swings his fist over the ropes at Alana’s face. Starr jumps out of the way though, Dre’s knuckles barely missing her head.
Alana: SEE! Do you all see how abusive he is? This is just like when we were together, Dre. I had to live in terror of this thug every day. It’s time to stop being your victim thug. Just wait until my tag team partner gets out here and the GOOD Movement DOMINATES!
BACKSTAGE
Kordy: Did you think you could be mean to Kordy?
A mangled trashcan swings down over the spine of Alana Starr’s Tag Team partner, Tina Valentine. She tries feebly to protect her skull as trashcan shot after trashcan shot is swung over her body at the hands of Kordy. The Evolution Champion bludgeons the very woman who assaulted her in the exact same way, in this exact same backstage location, earlier tonight. The Stranger stands back and nods his head approvingly as Kordy snaps out of her catatonic state and repeatedly bashes Tina over her back with the can until Valentine is no longer moving.
Kordy: Kordy won’t let you be happy, and if Kordy had time Kordy would make you tap-tap-tap! Your lucky Kordy has a tag team title to win.
Kordy throws the trashcan down the hall and then turns to the Stranger.
Kordy: Let’s go get Kordy’s Cletus back.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
The sight of Mercedes Starr is met with unanimous disdain as he occupies the backstage corridor plotting alongside La Tigra, Solomon and El Cuchillo. Conspicuous by his absence is Hector, the third member of La Tigra’s hit squad. Though Hector’s disappearance is of little concern to the viewing audience considering that El Cuchillo is polishing a machete and Solomon is stretching a piano wire between his hands. We only catch the tail end of their conversation.
Mercedes: I am pleased that joo took care of the weak link.
La Tigra: I have dealt with Hector.
Mercedes: Now it is time to deal with Andre Jordan.
Mercedes professes while dabbing his finger to his still swollen bottom lip, the results of the punch Jordan delivered last week on NewAge.
La Tigra: Yes, Hector’s replacement will make sure the thug pays for what he did to you.
LETHAL LOTTERY TOURNAMENT FINALS
We come back to the ring to find three ‘teams,’ well two and a half to be more precise, occupying opposite corners. The Tag Team Champions, Andre Jordan and Gavin Taylor are stretching in one corner, Alana Starr is warming up in another while anxiously awaiting the arrival of her partner Tina, and Ba’al with his surrogate partner Locke, stand front and center waiting for this competition to begin
Greyson: The Lethal Lottery Tournament finally coming to an end with three teams now vying for the Titles.
Sparkles: We’ve been eagerly anticipating this all night…but ummmm, where’s Alana’s partner?
Greyson: I haven’t a clue what’s keeping Tina Valentine from reaching the ring.
Sparkles: Diarrhea?
Greyson: I doubt it.
The crowd is ready for this match to begin, but it cannot get underway until all teams are in the ring. Ethan Von Aaron, Alana’s agent, is holding a huge Zack Morris style cellphone to his ear, trying to pinpoint the location of Tina Valentine. The call he is making abruptly disconnects when Ethan hangs up the phone at the sight of Kordy making her way down the ramp. The Evolution Champion looks quite disgruntled as she makes her way down the ramp followed by the Stranger.
Greyson: Uhhh, what’s Kordy doing out here?
Sparkles: To make a confusing situation even more confusing?
Greyson: I suppose so.
Kordy steps past Ethan and ignores her agent’s questions as she steps up and takes her place in Alana’s corner, holding a microphone to her lips.
Kordy: Kordy regrets to inform everyone that Tee-Tee-Tina won’t be coming out here to team with Alana. Tina fell down and went boom-boom backstage, so Kordy will now be the Starr Chylde’s partner.
Greyson: WHAT!?!
Sparkles: SHE SAID SHE’S GOING TO BE ALANA’S PARTNER.
Greyson: I heard her. I’m just confused.
Sparkles: You’re always confused.
Alana and Ethan try to talk to Kordy but her mind is made up, she’s not going anywhere.
Kordy: Kordy was never eliminated from this tournament, so it’s only fair Kordy gets what Kordy deserves. Oh….and one more thing….GAVITRON TAYLOR!
The All Star suddenly whips around and glares at the woman responsible for his arm being fifty shades of purple.
Kordy: Kordy was in the Trainer’s Office when you dropped off your medical report, Gavitron, and the old grumpy doctor said you’re a liar, a great big, stinky pants liar!
Kordy slips through the ropes and steps past a confused Alana, moving to the center of the ring where she has Gavin’s utmost attention.
Kordy: And grumpy ole’ doctor said that you falsified your clearance papers. Kordy knows your arm is in no shape to compete tonight and Kordy won’t let you risk further injury before our Evolution Title match at the End of the Year Special. So…..
Kordy glances over her shoulder in the direction of the entry way where several security guards are now making their way down the ramp.
Kordy: Kordy took care of everything. You are not cleared to wrestle tonight, Gavitron, no matter how many fake and forged doctor’s notes you produce. So security is here to take your crippled butt backstage.
The expression on Gavin’s face transforms and transforms quickly. He goes from an emotional high to a whole new low. Anger boils in the pit of his stomach, especially as security climbs up onto the apron DEMANDING that he exit the ring.
Greyson: I can’t believe this. Even MORE falsified medical documents? This is the same thing that happened to Danny Darko two weeks ago.
Sparkles: That Head Trainer ‘Surly’ Sam is as corrupt as they come.
Greyson: Indeed. And nothing will ever be done about him until the Sinistry is no longer in power.
Kordy looks upset that Gavin has yet to adhere to the demands of security.
Kordy: Kordy said you have to leave the ring, Gavitron. Because if you don’t, you’ll be striped of those Tag Team Ti…
Kordy is no longer outraged, now she’s out cold. Gavin lunges across the ring and blasts her straight across the jaw with the superkick, the blow knocking her unconscious.
Greyson: WHAT A KICK!
Sparkles: NOT MY KORDY!!
Kordy lies there on the canvas clutching at her fractured jaw with Gavin standing over the Evolution Champion and bitterly tearing into her with his words. Just then Hunter Locke, head of SIN Security, charges in behind Gavin, grabs him by the back of the head and the tights, charges him across the ring and throws him through the ropes shoulder first into the exposed turnbuckle post.
Greyson: And now Ba’al’s tag team partner and head of SIN security just tossed Gavin right into that turnbuckle post.
Sparkles: On the injured shoulder.
Gavin’s already banged up arm bounces hard off the post and he now goes spiraling through the ropes and collapsing to the outside mats. Hunter then removes a ziptie from his pocket and throws it to the two security guards who came to the ring to grab Gavin. They make use of the plastic tie wrapping it around Gavin’s wrists then forcing him up to his feet and escorting him to the back.
Greyson: This is wrong…this is soooo wrong. One half of the Tag Team Champions being forced out of this match. It isn’t right! How can Andre Jordan be expected to wrestle two teams entirely on his own?
Andre answers that question the moment he rushes in behind a distracted Hunter, takes him under the arm and delivers the Opinion Changer. The Olympic Slam connects and Dre immediately crawls into the cover. Referee Arnie Ficklebottom drops into position and makes the count to a thunderous ovation.
1
2
Ba’al steps in and grabs Jordan by the leg, dragging him off of the cover at the last possible second.
Greyson: Dre sooo close, soo close to sneaking in and retaining his Tag Team Titles.
Ba’al flips Jordan over to his back and then lifts up on his leg, sending him rolling over backwards onto his feet. Ba’al then steps in and swings his fist at Dre’s chin only to receive a boot to his gut, that doubles him over and puts him in position for Dre to hook both of his arms then deliver the Game Changer….A pedigree that plants Ba’al right on top of an unconscious Hunter Locke’s chest.
Greyson: The GAME CHANGER…oh-ha-ha….The GAME CHANGER!
Ba’al rolls away and Jordan falls across Locke’s stomach once again, hooking his leg a second time.
1
2
Alana comes charging in and grabs the number one contender for her X-Class Championship. She takes him around the neck, then forces him up to his feet before placing him in positon for the Five Starr. She just about to deliver her flip over backwards before Jordan twists his body into a full spin, ending up stepping to Alana’s side and tugging on her wrist, dragging her into a fireman’s carry. Jordan then flips forward and delivers the Finley Roll that has Alana crashing back first right into Hunter’s chest and stomach. Now Starr and Hunter end up stacked on top of each other while Jordan is rolling along into the turnbuckle that he leaps on top of. He then flips over backwards into the moonsault, crushing both Starr and Locke.
Alana rolls off of Hunter and now Jordan drops down over Hunter’s sternum, hooking the leg
1
2
To Jordan’s dread Hunter lobs his shoulder into the air, preventing taking the three count.
As all of this action takes place in the ring the fans have trouble recognizing the fact that the Stranger is presently aiding Kordy up the ramp. It appears that the Evolution Champion suffered quite the malicious superkick, one that has all but rendered her incapable of competing in this Tag Team Title match.
Ethan: Where are you going!?! WHERE ARE YOU GOING!?!
A flabbergasted Von Aaron watches as a dead on her feet Kordy is led up the ramp and into the backstage area. His face flashes with rage upon realizing that his client, Alana, is now left without a partner, a problem only he can fix. Ethan scrambles towards the ring, removing his suit jacket, tossing it to the ground then leaping up onto the apron. The fans are absolutely shocked at the sight of Von Aaron occupying Alana’s corner and preparing to team with Starr in this tag title match.
Sparkles: Tina was taken out, Kordy was taken out, now it falls upon Ethan to be Alana’s partner. This may be the greatest tandem in the history of history.
Greyson: This is absolutely bonkers.
Von Aaron will do far more than just step up into Alana’s corner, he grabs the top rope and prepares to fly over it right into Andre, the challenger for Alana’s X-Class Title at the End of the Year Special. Ethan leaps into the air about to springboard to the top rope when Andre turns and blasts him straight across the cheek with a thunderous superkick knocking him straight out of the air. Ethan turns and goes crashing down to the mats amidst a HUGE pop from the crowd.
Sparkles: NOW ETHAN SUFFERS A SUPERKICK!
The blow from Jordan is so vicious it looks to have knocked Ethan into not only next week, but the next decade. His GOOD Movement compatriots, Polly Norah and BMW, come racing down the ramp with a heightened sense of urgency. The two surround Von Aaron, realizing their agent is in bad shape hence why they stoop, grab his arms and lead him along to his feet. Ethan almost collapses several times as they escort him to the backstage area.
Greyson: Wait? Ethan’s taken out too?
Sparkles: Alana having no luck with her tag team partners tonight.
Greyson: She probably should have just stuck with Marie Jones.
If there’s one thing Andre can salvage from this night, it’s that he’s finally shut Ethan up. He looks quite proud of himself for blasting Ethan to the jaw, but that pride is about to change to pain. Alana swoops in behind Jordan and catches him with a school boy only to have Dre hit the canvas back first then roll over straight onto his feet. Once upright Jordan goes for the superkick on a kneeling Alana only to have her catch him by the ankle and push the foot away her face. As a result Jordan twists around and finds his leg caught in the hands of a rising Hunter. Locke grabs Jordan’s inbound leg and then delivers the dragon screw, slamming Andre’s knee into the canvas. Hunter then rolls to his knees when Alana steps in and goes for the thrust kick on his chin, but Locke manages to catch the boot and shove it away from him. Alana’s boot ends up falling into the waiting arms of Ba’al, who is just about to deliver a dragon screw leg whip only to have Alana leave her feet and deliver a modified enzugari.
The shot cracks Ba’al in the side of his face and sends him twisting into the canvas. Alana then begins to rise to her feet but Hunter charges in from behind and catches her by the arms, going for the full nelson slam. He lifts Alana into the air, but Starr manages to counter in mid-flight, twisting her body around to face Locke, catching him around the neck and then dropping to the canvas, rolling him over into the small package.
1
Alana breaks her own pin attempt in order to roll along to her feet, eye a seated Hunter and then blast him clear across his cheek with a powerful thrust kick. Locke falls to his back and Alana takes off into the ropes, ricocheting off before leaving her feet in order to deliver the standing shooting star press. She comes crashing down right onto Hunter and then immediately hooks his leg.
Sparkles; Such grace and speed from Alana, going to the air and taking Hunter out in the process.
Greyson: Question though, if she wins this match, who-who-who is she going to be champions with? All of her potential partners have been taken out.
Sparkles: Sounds like a job for SUPER-SPARKLES!
Greyson; No Sparkles. Noooo.
Referee Ficklebottom makes the count to quite the reaction.
1
2
It seems that the GOOD times are about to roll only to have Alana’s ambition derailed when she’s taken by the ankles, dragged off of the pin and then rolled to her back by Andre. He hooks the creases of Alana’s legs, turning his back to Ba’al leaning against one of the turnbuckles in the process. Dre suddenly drops back and catapults Alana through the air right into Ba’al. But Alana doesn’t crash into him, instead she extends her feet, wedges them to the SIN Champion’s stomach and interlocks her hands around the back of his head. She falls back and monkey flips Ba’al over right into Jordan, who he removes from his fee with a devastating clothesline. The fans cheer in response to this unorthodox series of moves culminating to Ba’al’s clothesline.
The Champion bustles along to his feet after taking out Jordan, then turns just as Alana comes rolling backwards out of the corner, extending her legs and wrapping them around Ba’al’s waist. She pushes herself up into a wheelbarrow, attempting to take him around the neck and drop him straight on his face with the bulldog. But Ba’al pushes Alana up out of the wheelbarrow and sends her flipping over his shoulder into a moonsault that causes her to crash directly on top of Jordan.
Andre grimaces in pain after having Starr crash into him with the moonsault. He’s going to suffer far worse than a moonsault however, considering Alana is taking off into the ropes, building momentum and then leaving her feet in order to deliver the standing shooting star press. She flips through the air asnd comes crashing down directly on top of Andre’s raised knees. All the air is instantly knocked out of Alana’s body, which goes rolling along right into Ba’al’s arms. The SIN Champion takes Alana around the neck, drags her head under his seat and then heaves her up into a powerbomb position. He now throws Alana down right on top of the still raised knees of Jordan, delivering a powerbomb, lung blower combination.
An aching Alana arches her back from Andre’s knees, sitting up in front of him and groaning in anguish. Andre then sits up behind Starr and wraps his arms around the X-Class Champion’s neck, applying a sleeper hold. He has this submission locked in for only a moment before Ba’al comes charging in and delivers a devastating running knee strike that smashes BOTH Andre AND Alana in their faces.
Sparkles: Ba’al with a two for one special.
Greyson: Two faces mangled by that knee simultaneously.
Alana and Andre fall back, the two stacked on top of one another. Ba’al then shouts at Hunter, who answers to the champion’s request, taking him by the chest and the knee then gorilla pressing him into the air. Locke then drops Ba’al down right on top of Andre and Alana with a big splash. Ba’al rolls out of the way and Hunter then leaves his own feet and connects with ANOTHER splash. He quickly rolls away so that Ba’al can hit another splash across Andre and Alana. Ba’al then rolls away and Hunter leaps into another splash across both of his opponents. Hunter rolls out of the way and Ba’al hits another leaping splash into his adversaries.
Sparkles: What the hell?
Greyson: Ba’al and Locke just repeatedly splashing Alana and Andre.
Sparkles: How rudimentary.
Greyson: But effective none the less.
Ba’al and Hunter stand up, nod in one another’s directions then rush into opposite ropes, ricochet off and leap into simultaneous splashes. Ba’al comes down into the waiting arms of Jordan, who turns in the nick of time, catches his opponent coming down and traps Ba’al in a triangle choke.
Hunter comes crashing down into Alana, who shocks the SIN Head of Security by catching him around the neck on the way down and not trapping him in the Koji Clutch.
Greyson: Ba’al and Hunter trapped in simultaneous submission holds.
Sparkles: If only Kordy were still out here, she’d be having an orgasm at the thought of seeing someone TAP-TAP-TAP.
Jordan continues to bear down on the throat of Ba’al, while Alana asphyxiates Hunter. Before either Ba’al or Hunter can be forced into submission the World Champion plants his feet and begins to dead lift Jordan into the air. He actually stands up with Dre still hanging from his neck with the triangle choke established and then throws Jordan down with almost a modified powrerbomb directly on top of Alana. The Koji Clutch is broken and as well as the wills of Ba’al’s opponents.
Ba’al gathers himself and then grabs Jordan by the arm, dragging him away from Alana and then into a short arm clothesline. But Andre ducks his head and avoids the clothesline, rushing into the ropes behind the World Champion. Ba’al spirals around and then glares at Dre charging at the nearby turnbuckle and grabbing the top rope and kicking his lower body into the air. Ba’al chases after him and foolishly falls right into his opponent’s trap. Jordan twists his body, falls down seat first across Ba’al’s lower back and then drops forward into a modified sunset flip roll up.
He has the pin established for only a moment before Ba’al rolls over backwards out of the sunset flip and onto his knees. He then scoots forward wedging his shoulders to the creases of Andre’s knees.
1
Ba’al only gets half a one count before Jordan pushes down on the back of his head and sends Ba’al flipping forward where Ba’al lands across the back of his shoulders in another pinning predicament. Andre sits up and wedges his shoulders to the creases of Ba’al’s knees.
1
Ba’al sits up and causes Jordan to fall onto the back of his shoulders with Andre seated on his chest then twisting his body around Jordan’s arm, trapping him in the grapevine. Jordan grimaces in pain and attempts to separate the legs that are interlocked around his shoulder. He tries to throw his fist into Ba’al’s knees in a desperate attempt to break up the submission.
At the same time Alana is being dragged to her feet by Hunter, and then hit with a boot to the gut that has her perfectly placed for Locke’s powerbomb. He hoists Alana up and onto his shoulders only to have Alana leap frog over his head and land behind his back. Hunter spins around and rushes right into a drop toe hold that sends his skull crashing down directly into Ba’al’s chest. The submission is broken up, saving Alana’s chances at winning the Tag Team Titles.
Greyson: Ba’al was seemingly on the cusp of forcing Jordan to tap out before Alana breaks up the submission by using Hunter as a weapon.
Ba’al rolls into the corner holding his chest in pain before Alana comes leaping in with both feet extended to her opponent’s stomach. She is about to drop back and deliver the monkey flip only to have Ba’al catch her by the creases of her knees and throw her over his head. Alana flies over Ba’al and then comes crashing down with the back of her thighs hitting the top rope of the turnbuckle before moonsaulting right on top of the still laid out Locke.
Sparkles: What the fuck was that!?!
Greyson: Only Alana Starr could pull something like that off.
Sparkles: That was amazing. Alana’s flexibility, mmmmm, just another reason to fantasi…I mean, love her.
Alana finds herself seemingly seconds from acquiring even more gold for the GOOD Movement as she cradles Hunter’s leg.
1
2
Ba’al is right there to break up the pin, grabbing Alana by the hair and pulling her from the pinfall. He forces her up to her feet before Starr leaves them by dropping back into the Pele kick. Her boot nails Ba’al directly in the face, sending him stumbling back into the waiting clutches of Jordan, who has the SIN Champion in position for the Opinion Changer. He heaves Ba’al into the Olympic Slam only to have Ba’al slip from Jordan’s shoulders and land behind his back. Ba’al wedges his hands to Jordan’s back and shoves him forward right into ANOTHER pele kick by Alana. Her boot nails the top of Jordan’s head and sends him stumbling back into the Totalis.
Ba’al lunges into the air to deliver the inverted bulldog only to have Jordan drop forward instead of backwards, causing his opponent to go flipping over him and rolling across the canvas. Ba’al gets to his feet with Jordan stepping to his side, the two about to fight for dominance when Alana suddenly leaves her feet and nails a STEREO pele kick on both of her opponents.
The fans go absolutely nuts as Dre and Ba’al find themselves tumbling to the canvas and clasping at their wounded skulls.
Alana instantly kips up to her feet with a prideful grin on her face that transforms into a painful expression when Hunter charges out of the corner and delivers an absolutely sickening lariat across her throat. Alana crashes to the canvas and Locke goes staggering along into the ropes, falling against them for support and to gather his senses.
Hunter’s focus shifts to Andre, who is rising to his feet and hurting BAD as a result of this chaotic Tag Team Title bout. Locke quickly charges in and goes to remove his head with another lariat only to have Dre drop to his back, avoiding the blow. He then kips up to his feet and the second he lands he finds his throat crushed by a lariat from Ba’al.
Greyson: Dre avoided the first lariat, but he had no luck avoiding the second.
Ba’al and Locke end up standing side by side and turning towards Dre and Alana, the two just laid out by their respective lariats. Ba’al and Hunter charge at their adversaries with stereo lariats but Jordan and Alana duck at the last second and hook the inbound biceps of their opponents. Jordan and Starr simultaneously push on the arms, sending Hunter and Ba’al spiraling around and ultimately hitting each other with clotheslines. Ba’al then turns towards Jordan, who delivers a scintillating Thrill Ride, wait…no….Ba’al counters in the middle of Jordan’s Sky High by catching Andre around the neck with a front chancery while wrapping his legs around Andre’s waist with the body vice.
Jordan stoops over when finding himself trapped in this simultaneous hold, fighting to keep from being dragged down to the canvas.
Alana is in no position to break this hold Ba’al has applied, as she’s too busy fighting having her own face broken by Locke’s punches. The two go back and forth for several minutes behind the back of the stooped Jordan, who shockingly reaches down and forces his arm around Ba’al’s thigh, while at the same time hooking an arm around Ba’al’s neck. He then drops back, breaking Ba’al’s front chancery body vice combination by throwing him back into a modified exploder suplex that sends Ba’al crashing into both Alana and Hunter. All three competitors go down to the canvas amidst an electrified response form the crowd.
Greyson: Dre takes out all three of his opponents at once! What a phenomenal counter that just saved the Titles for Team EPIC.
Sparkles: Jordan’s gonna have to keep busting out moves like that, because he’s in the same boat as Alana right now. He’s got no tag team partner.
It takes quite the struggle but Jordan gets to his feet and now has the liberty of picking and choosing which opponent to target. He instinctively goes right after Alana, grabbing her by the bangs and dragging her up to her feet. Jordan then hooks both of Alana’s arms, about to drive her down onto her face with the Game Changer. The Pedigree is seconds from connecting before a traumatized Ba’al comes limping towards Jordan and lunging into the air. Andre instinctively ducks his head, causing Ba’al to flip over Andre’s back, catching him around the waist and pulling him over into the sunset flip. As Jordan falls back, Alana flips over and counters the pedigree position into a jackknife cover. The crowd is screaming at the sight of Jordan being trapped in both the jackknife cover by Alana, AND the sunset flip by Ba’al. Referee Ficklebottom slaps the canvas with BOTH hands.
1-1
2-2
Somehow, as unbelievable as it may seem, Jordan manages to kick out of these simultaneous pinning predicaments. An achy Andre rushes to his feet with Alana standing up in front of him then lunging into the air and twisting her body so that she wraps her legs around Andre’s waist and flips him forward into a modified victory roll.
Alana only has the pin on Dre for a moment before he stands up, back facing the laid out Alana with the creases of his knees pressed to the creases of Alana’s. Just then Ba’al comes charging in only to have Dre catch him against with Jordan’s shoulder pressed to the champion’s ribs. He then snaps back into a bridging Northern lights suplex…a bridging Northern lights suplex over top of Alana, with her legs hooked by Dre’s legs. Once again Ficklebottom delivers a double count.
1-1
2-2
The crowd is going nuts as Jordan prepares to pick up a pinfall over both of his opponents only to have Locke intervene. He steps in and reaches down, grabbing Dre around the waist before pulling him up and out of the bridge and then up and onto Locke’s shoulder. Hunter has him in a running powerslam position, taking off across the ring only to have Dre slip off of Hunter’s shoulder at the last second, landing on his feet behind his opponent. The Head of SIN security is pushed along into the ropes, which he goes spilling through to the outside of the ring.
Locke lands on his feet across the outside mats before Jordan comes barreling across the ring and diving through the ropes into a flip forward suicide senton. He crashes into Hunter and knocks Locke back into the barricade. Hunter loses his balance, falls on his butt and it’s the back of his head that takes the brunt of the impact with the barrier. All the while Jordan is flipping over the barricade and landing in the crowd.
Jordan then turns around amongst the fans, shooing them out of his way as he prepares to make a mad dash to the barricade. He runs right through the fans and then lunges on top of the barrier before launching himself over the mats and back towards the crowd only to have Ba’al suddenly dive out of the ring, through the ropes and into a spear against the airborne ribs of Jordan, knocking both men down to the mats with a devastating crash.
Greyson: OOOOOH MY GAAAAAHD!
Sparkles: Tell me I didn’t just see that happen!
Greyson: Jordan was trying…he was trying…Good lord I can barely even describe it. Jordan was attempting to leap from the barricade back to the apron but then Ba’al dove out of the ring and caught him with a spear while Jordan was lunging off the barrier.
The fans inside of the Manhattan Center are standing and unleashing a loud holy shit chant based on what they just witnessed. Many have their hands on top of their heads, and you better believe those heads are shaking in response to that rib shattering spear. Andre grips at his mid-section, understandably in a lot of pain while Ba’al is getting to his feet and towering over his opponent. Just as Ba’al’s confidence grows he finds it shattered when Alana comes rushing across the apron and dives off into a blockbuster neck breaker, catching Ba’al around the neck and pulling him down into the move while she also crashes into Jordan’s ribs with a senton splash.
Greyson: And Alana follows it up with a move JUST as breathtaking!
Sparkles: Yeah, pretty sure neither Jordan nor Ba’al will be able to breathe after that one.
Everyone in the building stands in recognition of that last series of moves, with the exception of Hunter Locke. The impact the back of his head took with the barrier results in a laceration that is sending blood oozing down his shoulders and spine. It seems like he was concussion by the collision with the barrier hence why Rachel Foxx and Decay, who had been ringside throughout this match swoop in and lend aid to the Head of SIN security. They help him up to his feet and realize he is in urgent need of care, acting as crutches as they lead him up the ramp and towards the backstage area.
Greyson: Now where’s Hunter going?
Sparkles: I think he busted his head on the barricade.
Greysn: If Ba’al’s partner is being escorted out of here, that-that means neither he, Alana or Jordan are wrestling with tag team partners.
Ba’al, Starr and Jordan are too banged up to care if they have partners in this match or not. Alana struggles to her feet with the aid of the apron then rolls Ba’al inside. She crawls towards the SIN Champion and drops into the lateral press.
1
2
Ba’al manages to get his shoulder up.
Alana rises to her feet and eyes the nearest turnbuckle, beginning to scale it to the top rope.
Greyson: Now Starr is going to the top, and good lord who knows what she might have planned should she come off that corner.
Starr steadies herself on the top rope and prepares to flip back onto the waiting body of Ba’al only to have Jordan lunge to the apron in front of her, and then leap into the air so that his leg swings up and cracks Alana right in the forehead. The shot knocks Alana off of her feet and causes her to drop back hanging in the tree of woe. A position that Ba’al immediately takes advantage of, rushing across the ring, leaping into the air and delivering a hanging dropkick right to Alana’s chin.
Ba’al then rolls away from Alana who is still hanging in the tree of woe and is none the wiser that Andre is crawling the very corner that she’s dangling out of. He stands on the top of the turnbuckle and waits for Ba’al to turn around. The second the World Champion spins towards the corner Dre comes flying out of it and crashes into Ba’al with a big crossbody block. The impact inflicts just as much damage on Ba’al as it does on Jordan. He immediately curls into the fetal position, gripping at his ribs which are still suffering the strain of that spectacular spear.
It seems as if Andre is going to have a very difficult time following up on that crossbody given the condition of his ribs.
Although the fans should be focused on Dre’s plight, their eyes are instead captivated by the man making his way down the ramp. A man that nobody thought they’d see play a role in this match. A man carrying a giant crucifix over his shoulder.
Greyson: Is that-is that…SCOTT CANNON!?!
Cannon makes his way down the ramp with the very cross he was crucified upon loaded over his shoulder. He drops the huge cross at ringside and leans it against the apron before dragging himself up and into the corner…the corner of his team, extending his hand towards Ba’al for the tag.
Greyson: What is…what is Scott Cannon doing here?
Sparkles: We saw him crucified by Ba’al earlier and taken out of the Tag Team Tournament.
Greyson: But now it-now it-now it looks like he’s out here TRYING to get a tag from Ba’al!?!
Sparkles: He wants in this match.
A shaken up Ba’al crawls away from Jordan, having no real inclination where he is headed. All he knows is that there’s a hand extended towards him, one he instinctively reaches out to tap. Once Ba’al gets within range of that hand though, it balls up into a fist and Scott swings it right into Ba’al’s chin.
Greyson: You fool Ba’al…you fool!
Sparkles: Cannon never had any intention of teaming with Ba’al.
The blow to the face knocks Ba’al to his back and now Cannon is limping around the ringside area and climbing up into the corner of Team EPIC. Since Gavin isn’t there to make a tag to Andre, in this, Dre’s hour of need, Scott is offering his services as a surrogate partner.
Greyson: Now Scott is in Andre’s corner asking for a tag.
Sparkles: This guy has got a major screw lose.
A wincing Jordan gets to a knee and spots Scott desperately trying to get the tag so he can get his hands on Ba’al. However, Jordan will NOT tag him in, refusing to trust Cannon. Instead Andre turns his focus back to Ba’al, albeit a second too late. Ba’al lunges into the air and drives his knee square into Andre’s chin, sending him spiraling back and into Alana who is now seated on the corner she was just hanging from. She catches Jordan around the neck then leaps off the corner into the tornado DDT, spiking Andre right on top of his head.
Scott now leaps off the apron, rushes around the ring and leaps up into Alana’s corner, where he extends his hand BEGGING for a tag.
Greyson: Now Scott’s in Alana’s corner!
Sparkles: Would it be legal if she tags out to him? I mean, would that make Scott and Alana tag team partners?
Greyson: I don’t know, good God help me, I don’t KNOW.
A wounded Alana sits up and looks at the hand covered in a Kevlar glove stretching out from her corner. Instinctively Starr begins to crawl towards it, absent mindedly reaching out and slapping the palm.
Greyson: Alana tagging in Cannon!
Sparkles: Watch out Ba’al.
The World Champion turns around just in time to be caught with a devastating clothesline by Cannon. The blow sends Ba’al crashing into the canvas then rolling across it. He stands up and rushes at Scott only to be hit with a running boot square across the cheek. As a result of this collision Ba’al goes spiraling down to the canvas, landing a few inches away from a kneeling Andre. Jordan struggles along to his feet looking a little worse for wear, and none the wiser that Cannon and Ba’al are brawling a few inches away from him.
No, Jordan doesn’t realize what’s happening in the ring because he’s more focused on what’s happening OUTSIDE of the ring. Solomon and El Cuchillo, the very same two men who have aided Alana Starr several times over the past few months, lunge onto the ring aprons, capturing Andre’s focus. Andre rushes right at the man who choked him with a piano wire a few weeks ago on Riot, knocking Solomon off the apron. Cuchillo tries to get in the ring only to have Dre rush in and drive a knee into the side of his body, knocking him to the outside mats as well.
Greyson: La Tigra’s army trying to get in the ring and get at Jordan.
Sparkles: They’re attempting to help Alana out again.
Greyson: But Andre has them neutralized.
Jordan has taken both men off the apron before turning towards another individual of Spanish descent leaping onto the apron clothed in a white suit.
Greyson: Wait! Who’s that!?!
The individual clad in ivory duds, catches Jordan by the back of the head and leaps off the apron, dragging Jordan’s throat down into the top rope. His head snaps back and he goes spiraling towards Ba’al and Cannon.
Scott has Ba’al stood up and is now closing the distance between them with the roaring elbow. However, Ba’al ducks down out of the way, causing the elbow Cannon had aimed at his face to crush Jordan’s skull instead. Andre collapses to his back with Cannon standing over him looking conflicted by his actions. Cannon now turns back towards Ba’al and receives a harsh thrust kick across the chin for his troubles, the blow knocking Scott off of his feet and landing across Andre’s chest.
Greyson: Hold on a minute…wait…wait!
Referee Ficklebottom, who hadn’t noticed the interference of La Tigra’s goons, finally spins around to acknowledge the pin being made by Cannon. Ficklebottom drops into position and makes the three count.
1
2
The Manhattan Center ignites, the crowd leaping to their feet with dropped jaws as they witness Cannon pinning Jordan.
Greyson: Wait-wait-wait!
Sparkles: Cannon just…Cannon just….
Greyson: He just pinned Jordan.
The fans are blown away at this sight, wondering what just happened, how this just happened. The referee returns to the ring with the Tag Team Title belts in his hands, dropping one across a barely conscious Cannon’s chest then forking the other into the anticipatory hands of Alana.
A huge grins forms across Alana’s face as she takes possession of the Tag Team Title.
Greyson: Cannon and Starr, they’re the NEW Tag Team Champions!
Sparkles: How in the hell is this possible?
Greyson: Well all of Alana’s partners were taken out before this match and then Starr was the only one willing to tag in Cannon when he came out here….you know what, let’s skip with the explanations and just go with it.
Sparkles: But….
Greyson: Stop asking questions!
Sparkles: Fine.
Ba’al rolls to the outside of the ring at this point, glaring into the squared circle where Cannon is regaining his senses, sitting up on the canvas with the Tag Title belt hanging from his forearm. At the same time Alana is leaning against the ropes clutching her new championship. Her eyes slowly drift to the outside of the ring where Solomon, El Cuchillo, and the man in the white suit are watching with grins.
Scott: Where are you going Frost!?!
Scott finally gets his shit together, throwing aside the Tag Team Title belt that was given to him and instead clutching a microphone. He uses to shout at Ba’al, who was already half way up the ramp.
Scott: You and I are not through yet mate. You put me on that cross (points to the giant wooden crucifix he left at ringside) and I’m intent on returning the favor. I made a promise to Taylor, and believe it or not, I am a man of my word.
Ba’al almost chuckles over this insinuation, and he laughs even harder at the prospect of Scott’s challenge. He outright ignores Cannon, marching to the backstage area. Scott picks up the Tag Team Title strap he just won, but only so he can use it as a weapon. He rolls to the outside of the ring and barrels up the ramp, stalking Ba’al into the backstage area.
Although her NEW Tag Team partner just abandoned the ring, Alana remains inside of it, holding her Tag Team Title in one hand and the X-Class Title in the other. She approaches the man she just took the Tag Title away from, stooping over a motionless Andre. At the same time El Cuchillo, Solomon and the man in white are sliding into the ring and surrounding Dre as well. Cuchillo holds Andre up by his chin while Solomon and the man in white stretch his arms out to his sides, rendering the already unconscious Jordan defenseless.
Alana: It looks like I won’t have to slap your mother in her ugly face after-all.
Alana states while holding the gold plate of the Tag belt centimeters from Dre’s nose.
Alana: Because I have the feeling that seeing me with THIS…(Alana throws the belt over her shoulder)….is really going to hurt you.
Alana goes to walk away with the X-Class Title and Tag Team Titles in her possession before stopping and looking back at Dre in order to offer one last comment.
Alana: See you at the End of the year Special….THUG.
BACKSTAGE
Silas: I can’ say I’m very happy. Flyboy shouldn’t have been in any condition to go out there and win the Tag Team Titles.
Marie Jones, Brittany Lohan and Sienna Swann take their scolding from Silas Mason. All three of these dangerous and destructive ladies stand in the corridor listening to Silas preach.
Silas: Tonight was supposed to be all about showing Scott that he needs us. All about making him come to his senses, but I see now, we took it too easy on ‘em. We won’t be makin’ that mistake again. Not with the rest of our targets for the night.
Marie: Ladies, earlier tonight I was SCREWED out of the Tag Team Tournament, but Silas World can still salvage a win here on Riot.
Silas: A win against that twisted bitch Serenity and her friends.
Brittany Lohan’s blue eyes narrow into a scowl when hearing her sister’s name mentioned.
Marie: We’ve got a plan for Serenity this evening that is…..
Lohan: Hold on-hold on-hold on….We NEED to talk.
”The Blue Eyed Devil” has heard enough plots against her sister.
Silas: Baby Blue, I figured you might speak up when we stared plottin’ on yer sister.
Lohan: Do me one favor, Silas, just one favor, stay away from Serenity. Katelyn put her through enough stress already.
Marie: Whoa-whoa? You’re asking us for to go easy on your sister when she broke one of your ribs with a crowbar attack two weeks ago? Are you….mental?
Lohan: My sister made a mistake when she used this (raises crowbar) on me, just one of many mistakes she’s made since coming to the IWC. But I’m not about to give up on her.
Marie: Well….
Lohan: And I don’t appreciate the fact that you implicated me in setting her up on the last NewAge either. I wanted to talk to her, I wanted us to put an end to our differences before things went any further, but you called me out of that room where I was supposed to be meeting with her just….
Silas: Just to do what ya don’t have the strength to do.
Lohan: Wha….wha…what?
Lohan almost laughs off the notion of ‘weakness.’
Silas: Face it Baby Blue, Serenity is a feral animal that needs to be put down.
Marie: She’s Old Yeller, and your little Travis holding the rifle, you just don’t have the courage to pull the trigger.
Silas: Exactly.
Lohan: I don’t believe…..no…just no….Abi is not too far gone, I can still talk her down off that ledge. Just give me that chance, you owe me that much.
Though reluctant Marie and Silas consider the offer, the two joining in a huddle that purposely excludes Lohan, keeping her out of their circle.
Silas: Alrigh’ Baby Blue. Ya did a good job on flyboy tonight. So I guess Baby Spice and I can give ya a chance to talk yer sister down.
Marie: If you want to go to the ring and talk to Serenity, FINE. But we won’t be there to protect you.
Lohan: I won’t need any protection.
This statement is emphasized by the crowbar that Lohan raises into view before swinging it into her free palm.
Lohan: I’ll get through to Abigail, and if I can’t, then I’LL deal with her.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
With Brittany Lohan no longer at her side cameras now capture Marie Jones openly plotting, but it isn’t with her fellow Silas World members. Instead Marie is standing beside a large armored vehicle talking to two police officers. Greyson Lovejoy and Sparkles give their take on this bizarre scene.
Greyson: Erm, why is Marie Jones talking to those officers?
Sparkles: Oh no. You don’t-you don’t think she called the police over one pair of underpants missing from her gym bag do you?
Greyson: For you sake, I prey not.
IN RING
Lohan: You’re probably asking yourselves what brings the Blue Eyed Devil out here tonight.
That is just one of a thousand questions at the forefront of the fans’ minds when seeing Brittany Lohan in the middle of the ring, clasping a microphone and a crowbar. Serenity’s sister paces with a look of agitation in her features.
Lohan: I’m out here to clear up a few miscommunications between you and I, Abigail…or am I supposed to call you Serenity now? I want to know what you like to be called so I can avoid a few more busted ribs. Why don’t you come on out to this ring and clarify things for me, Abi? How about you explain what you did to me two weeks ago with my very own crowbar? Because I’m having a lot of trouble understanding it. I really don’t see why you would try to take out the one person in your life who has been a rock. I’ve been there for you no matter what. And how do you repay me, you break my ribs….
Serenity: And you got your payback, right?
There is quite the unique reaction for Serenity, who is met with loud cheers and a smattering of boos upon stepping to the stage. Serenity gets the type of reaction only she can elicit, both from the fans and from her intimidating sister stood dead center of the ring.
Serenity: I busted your ribs, and you lured me backstage to have me thrown in the cage. Seems to me we’re even.
Lohan: Abi, I had noooothing to do with that. I would never…NEVER hurt you.
Serenity: And why’s that, you think I need protection?
There are no qualms shown by Serenity as she climbs up onto the apron and glares over the ropes at the woman who has crippled more people than polio.
Serenity: See, you still haven’t got the point, have you? I don’t need you to protect me. I don’t need you to mettle in my business.
She slides through the ropes and emphasizes her point by stepping straight up into Lohan’s face, coming nose to nose with a woman who strikes fear into the hearts of even the darkest souls.
Serenity: How many of your ribs do I have to break before you get the point? I don’t need you in my life and I don’t want you in my life.
This powerful statement is punctuated by Serenity’s attempt to exit the ring only to find her wrist caught by the hook of the crowbar in Lohan’s clutches. Lohan pulls back on the crowbar, causing Serenity to spin back around to face her.
Lohan: Cute, Abi, real cute. You think that’s it, huh? That we’re all through here? We’re not. Because you do need me. If I wasn’t there for your protection, you would still be marrying a WHORE.
Serenity: I’m sick of hearing about Katelyn. She made a mistake with Silas….
Lohan: No, you’re the one making a mistake trying to cut me out of your life. Without me who knows what’s going to happen to…..
Marie: Don’t worry Brittany, I still appreciate you.
As if this moment needed anymore tension. Oh well, because that’s exactly what Marie Jones brings to the table, TENSION. She steps to the stage, with a grin heinous enough to send fans searching for barf bags. But she doesn’t come to that stage alone, there are also two police officers stepping out behind her.
Marie: If it wasn’t for you, I’m not sure I could have got Serenity trapped in the ring where my associates here could place her under arrest.
Lohan’s blue eyes widen and Serenity’s eyes narrow on the beating veins in Marie’s throat.
Marie: Based on the court transcripts Silas made a matter of public record, I had all the evidence I required from Abigail’s testimony to press charges against her for unlawful imprisonment and conspiring to commit identity theft. So the long arm of the law is here to take you into custody, and it would be wise that you do not resist.
The police officers close in on the ring, hands tentatively wrapped around the grips of their pistols. Even as she’s surrounded by police, Serenity never removes her eyes from Marie.
Lohan: Hold on-hold on-hold on.
Brittany is about to do what she does best, stand up for family, but before she can take out these police officers, Serenity raises a hand to her sister’s chest, restraining her. Soon it’s Serenity who finds herself restrained though, cuffs being slipped over her wrists and her arms being forced behind her back. She kicks her blond hair back away from her masked face, making sure she gets an unobstructed view of the blood curdling grin on Marie’s face as Serenity is led up the ramp by her shackled wrists. Ultimately Marie and Serenity stand at eye level, the two awkwardly staring each other for a few moments before the police escort their captive through the curtains to the backstage area.
Marie: Thanks again Brittany. Couldn’t have done it without you.
Lohan seethes in the ring and if Marie doesn’t dash to the backstage fast enough, Lohan will be standing over Jones’ mangled body. Marie hurries through the curtains the second that Lohan throws a leg through the ropes and puts a foot on the apron. She’s a moment away from bolting up the ramp and doing everything in her power to save Serenity, but her knee is suddenly clipped. She no sooner puts her boot through the ropes before Sebastian Knight comes rushing out of the crowd, rushing across the mats, and rushing shoulder first right into the crease of Lohan’s leg. Brittany trips over backwards and lands spine first across the apron.
The vengeful Knight pursues payback on Brittany for the year she took off of his career. He grabs Lohan by the legs and drags her off the apron, where the two begin to go back and forth with punches between each other’s faces.
Greyson: Serenity arrested and now Sebastian Knight and Brittany Lohan fighting at ringside.
Sparkles: They’re not waiting until the End of the Year Special and that Crowbar on the Pole Match.
Greyson: It’s on right now.
The shift to the backstage area is poorly timed, causing the crowd to miss out on all the violence in the ring where Knight and Lohan are still going back and forth.
BACKSTAGE
Officer: You have the right to remain silent, anything you say and do can be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney….
The Miranda Rights are recited by the police officers guiding Serenity through the parking lot in the direction of the huge truck parked several feet away. The back doors are opened to accommodate the prisoner about to be placed inside of the armored vehicle.
Marie: I can’t tell you how long I’ve been waiting to see you pay for what you did to me.
Serenity doesn’t even look back at Marie Jones, who gloats as she follows from behind at a distance.
Marie: Do you regret it, Abi? Do you regret helping my sister imprison me and steal my identity? Well?
Serenity: Oh I have regrets alright….
At last she breaks her silence, just as she’s being forced into the back of the armored truck and the doors begin to swing shut behind her.
Serenity: I regret that your sister Kim didn’t just finish you off when she had the chance.
Marie: Oh, you’ll have far more to regret by the end of the night.
Marie steps up onto the rear running board of the armored truck and stares through the bulletproof glass patrician allowing her a view of the cuffed Serenity imprisoned inside.
Marie: For instance, you’ll regret not asking the police who’ve detained you to show you proper identification.
A pouting Marie lowers her head, intentionally protruding her lower lip as far as it will go.
Marie: Because who knows, you might have realized they’re not actually officers.
Serenity’s face suddenly leaps into view, standing on the opposite side of the patrician with a stare that threatens to melt the glass separating her from Marie.
Marie: You don’t realize just how deep Silas’ pockets are, do you? He got this nice armored truck for me, and two of the best character actors money can buy.
A grinning Marie slaps the steel reinforced sides of the truck.
Marie: I could have had you arrested, sure, but it would be a lot more fun to force you to watch your crimes come back to haunt you.
A black mask slides out of Marie’s pocket, the very same mask worn by Serenity. The black fabric is now placed around Marie’s eyes.
Marie: You know what they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery…..HAHAHAHA.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
Willow: We have to save Serenity.
The three ladies who have been seen alongside Serenity for several weeks come into view. Willow Wilkes and Jessika hold the wrists of Cassidy Haze, guiding the monster through the backstage area as they search for their ‘arrested’ partner in crime.
Jessika: Should we get some bail money together?
Willow: I don’t think we’ll need it.
Jessika: Why’s that?
Willow: Because I don’t think those were police officers who took Serenity.
Jessika: Really? How can you tell?
Willow: There was just something off about them.
Cassidy: I hope we find Marie before we find Serenity.
Jessika: You have such plans for her, don’t you?
Cassidy: Hmmm…
The three get closer to the area where Serenity was taken before being forced into captivity within an armored car. They are seemingly on the brink of tracking down their friend, stepping past an adjacent and shadowy corridor. The moment they move past it, a figure suddenly emerges from this corridor with a baseball bat in hand, swinging the top of it directly into Cassidy’s ribs. Haze groans and doubles over her mid-section before her attacker swings the bat over her spine, dropping her to a knee. Wilkes and Jessika quickly rush in and prevent any further harm from befalling Cassidy at the hands of….Serenity?
The very woman they were out to save has now taken out one of their own. Serenity, in her leather gear and leather mask, stands over Haze with the bat hanging form her palm and a twisted grin etched across her face.
Jessika: WHY!?!
Serenity says nothing, she just licks her lips and walks away.
IN RING
Lohan: Dammit Marie, what are you thinking?
The menacing Lohan paces the ring, piercing blue eyes focused on the entry way. Greyson and Sparkles chime in from the commentators table, TRYING to put this madness into perspective for the fans.
Greyson: Brittany Lohan STILL in the ring in spite of having that fight with Sebastian Knight right before the break. But she looks more upset that her Silas World teammate, Marie Jones, had Serenity arrested.
Sparkles: I don’t know what got into this bitch, but I know what I’d like to put inside her.
Greyson: SPARKLES! You won’t be content until you’ve gotten us both killed, will you.
Sparkles: One of us killed at least.
It seems only one person here tonight has earned Lohan’s homicidal wrath.
Lohan: You and I are going to have a conversation, Marie. And Abi, you have to know I had NOTHING to do with having you arrested, that’s entirely on Marie and Silas. I’ll handle this, but right now I’ll handle you, Sebastian Knight. You’re one feral animal I WILL take care of. You came out here and attacked me when my guard was lowered, but let’s see how well you fair when you face me straight on. I want a fight, and I’m not leaving this ring until I get it. And if you’re not man enough to answer my challenge, Knight, then the top brass had better send someone out here. Because I swear to God, if I don’t get an opportunity to work out my frustrations in this ring at this very moment I’ll…..
Like a cow being lowered into a pit of hungry raptors, an already wounded Eric Sailes finds himself being pushed through the curtains by several stagehands. Although he’s still hurting from the beating he took in his earlier matches against JaMarcus Avery and Mya Denton, Sailes still staggers along towards the ring, just not of his own volition.
Sparkles: Oh this is hysterical. This is PRICLESS!
Greyson: Eric Sailes being sent to the ring AGAIN!
Sparkles: He fought JaMarcus Avery earlier tonight and fought Mya Denton as well. He got his ass absolutely handed to him both times.
Greyson: I don’t think he’s gonna fair any better in this encounter. The IWC just feeding him to Lohan to placate this woman’s animalistic desires.
BRITTANY LOHAN VS. ERIC SAILES
It’s pretty obvious that Eric is regretting have set foot in the arena tonight, and he’s gonna regret putting his foot in the ring even more. He no sooner steps through cables before Lohan rushes across the ring and caves in his skull with the Yakuza Kick. The stiff and powerful blow sends Sailes twisting down to the canvas and plopping straight on his face. Lohan doesn’t keep him in that position for long, swooping in, hooking both of Eric’s arms and then driving him into the canvas via the Final Solution. Sailes’ whole body goes absolutely limp. But there is no rest for the weary. Sailes finds himself seated upon the canvas with his head now trapped in the Buffalo Sleeper, resulting in an instantaneous tap out.
Greyson: It’s over that fast!?!
Sparkles: Seriously Lovejoy, you’re surprised by this?
Greyson: No, probably shouldn’t be.
Sparkles: Lohan beat Sailes quicker than Avery pinned him earlier tonight.
Mangling Sailes just doesn’t quench Lohan’s appetite for destruction. She throws down the unconscious Knight to the canvas and then picks up the microphone, returning it to her snarling lips.
Lohan: That’s it? You think that’s going to buy me off? I’m just getting myself warmed up. So who are you going to send out next, huh? Who’s the next lil lamb to be lead to the slaugh….
Knight: You want a fight mate?
The crowd has a loud response for Sebastian Knight, who steps through the curtains to the stage trailed by his agent Tabitha Silverstone and now griping a microphone.
Knight: Well I’m fine with not waiting until the End of the Year Special for our match, the sooner I get my hands on you, the better.
Knight is already off and running towards the ring before Lohan can even give him an answer.
Greyson: Sebastian Knight and Brittany Lohan scheduled to face off in a Crowbar on a Pole match at the End of the Year Special, but their locking up right here and right now.
BRITTANY LOHAN VS. SEBASTIAN KNIGHT
Sebastian slides into the ring with Tabitha pausing at the apron and cheering her client on. The instant Knight gets into the squared circle he swings the crowbar in his hands straight at Lohan’s face, but Brittany ducks under it and then waits for Sebastian to turn around to deliver the yakuza kick. But Knight baseball slides right under the boot directed at his face. He then leaps to his feet behind Brittany and once again finds himself on the cusp of swinging the crowbar, raising the weapon above his head and charging at his target. Brittany side steps him and pushes Knight along into the ropes, Sebastian bouncing off the cables stomach first and then staggering back into Brittany’s waiting arms. She catches him around the waist and snaps back into the German suplex.
1
2
Knight manages to get his shoulder off the canvas and roll over backwards to his feet, dropping the crowbar in the process. The weapon finds its way up into the hands of Lohan, who will put it to such destructive and devastating use. She rears back on the weapon in the process of charging at Knight, who lunges from his knees skull first into Lohan’s ribs. Lohan doubles over grabbing at her stomach while Knight rises in front of her and delivers a powerful European Uppercut, the shot sending her stumbling back. Somehow Lohan remains upright, prompting Knight to take off into the ropes, ricochet off and build momentum into ANOTHER running European Uppercut. This blow is even more powerful than the last, but Lohan is STILL upright.
Greyson: I’m more than a little surprised here to see these two going at it tonight when they have that big pay-per-view match slated to go down at the End of the Year Special.
Sparkles: Their a couple of eager beavers.
Greyson: I can’t blame Knight for being impatient when it comes to getting his hands on Lohan. She cost him a year of his career AND his marriage.
Sparkles: That’s not fair, marriage is P.O.T.
Greyson: P.O.T?
Sparkles: Puntang On Tap.
Greyson: Why did I HAVE to seek an explanation?
Lohan is staggered but not down, forcing Knight to take it up a notch. He rushes into the ropes, bounces off and comes charging back in for ANOTHER European Uppercut only to have Lohan counter by putting a big boot into Knight’s inbound arm. Her opponent spins away from her and into the ropes, Knight leaping onto the middle rope, springing off then twisting into a springboard diving European Uppercut that at last takes Lohan off of her feet.
Knight then rolls along into the ropes, rests his body weight on top of them and warily watches from the corner of his eye as Lohan rises to her feet. The second she does get up Knight charges in and grabs her around the head, going for the swinging neckbreaker, but Lohan twists right out of it and wedges her back to Knight’s back. She pulls him straight down into the backslide.
1
2
With mere seconds remaining before he tastes defeat at the hands of Lohan, Knight gets his shoulder up, rolling over backwards onto his feet. The moment he stands, Lohan almost decapitates him with the roaring double axehandle smash. The blow absolutely crushes Knight’s face knocking him to the canvas and giving Lohan the opportunity to gloat as she towers above him. All of her gloating, which are more-so taunts than anything else, are directed at Tabitha.
Lohan: This is what you’ve been waiting a year for? Begging for?
Tabitha tries to ignore Lohan and instead rally behind Knight, who is working his way to his feet with the aid of the ropes. He doesn’t get very far before Lohan steps in, takes him around the waist and goes for the German suplex only to have Knight clasp onto the top cable. He refuses to be pulled over and into the move, forcing Lohan to begin delivering clubbing shot after clubbing shot across Knight’s spine. She then takes him around the waist and goes for the German again only to get an elbow to her eye. Knight sends Lohan stumbling back, palming at her face while Sebastian turns with his back to the cables, about to bounce off the ropes and take Lohan out.
He hits the ropes alright, but to Knight it feels like the ropes just hit back. A baseball bat swings right into the upper spine of Knight, swung by of all people….SERENITY!?!
Greyson: The hell?
Sparkles: LEATHER!
Greyson: Focus on what Serenity just did, not what she’s wearing.
The fans find themselves rendered speechless at the sight of Serenity bludgeoning the back of Knight’s head with the baseball bat, causing the official to signal for the bell. The masked Serenity watches from the apron as Knight stumbles forward into the waiting boot that nails him in the ribs. Lohan catches him with the kick and follows it up with something far more devastating, the Final Solution. The tiger bomb lays Knight out, rendering him motionless, but Lohan does not go for the pin on account of her sister entering the ring with baseball bat still in hand. Serenity runs her hand through her long blonde locks and then uses that hand to twiddle her fingers in waving fashion towards a confused Lohan.
Lohan: What are you doing?
Serenity: You’re welcome Sis.
Lohan: How did you get away from the police?
Serenity fields no questions, she’s just rolls to the outside of the ring and starts up the ramp only to have Brittany charge up behind her and grab her shoulder.
Lohan: Talk to me, Abi.
Brittany hadn’t counted on Serenity showing up throughout this impromptu match, she hadn’t counted on Serenity coming to her aid, and she hadn’t counted on ripping Serenity’s entire scalp off when mistakenly grabbing her hair instead of her shoulder. Serenity keeps on walking even as her wig is pulled off with the mask dangling from it. Both items now hang from Brittany’s palm and her blue eyes cut from the mask to the shocked face of Marie Jones. It at last dawns on Marie that her disguise has been plucked right off of her head, a fact she only recognizes when she reaches up and feels at the area around her eyes, realizing that the mask is gone.
Greyson: Wait-wait-wait, am I seeing this?
Sparkles: Serenity was Marie Jones all along?
Greyson: Why didn’t I design you with half a brain? Marie was IMPERSONATING Serenity.
Marie turns towards Lohan and offers no explanation for her actions other than a grin and a shrug of her shoulders.
Lohan: What have you done?
Marie: I made your sister feel my pain.
BACKSTAGE
Serenity: Hey…..hey handsome.
Try as they may, the two actors impersonating police officers cannot help but to be drawn towards the magnetic personality of Serenity. They stand just outside of the armored truck Serenity is locked inside of, attempting to keep their eyes front and center but finding it harder and harder to do so given Serenity’s come hither tone. Eventually the two turn and look up into the bulletproof glass window Serenity is peering towards.
Serenity: Hi gorgeous. I’m feeling a little dehydrated. Would it be too much to ask for to get a drink?
The actors peer in one another’s directions before shrugging.
Klein: Be careful with that one my children.
The actors veer eyes from one another to the man now passing by, Spencer Klein, advisor of the NEW Blacklist. Normally his presence is jarring enough, but the addition of a black suit and a white clerical collar makes Spencer stand out a bit more than usual.
Klein: I’m presiding over one funeral already this evening, not sure I’ll have time for three. So do be careful gents.
Spencer winks in the direction of Serenity peeking out from the armored truck then straightens his clerical collar and comes strolling towards the ring. He adjusts the bible tucked under his armpit as he prepares to conduct perhaps the most sacrilegious act in IWC history.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
Marie: I hope she enjoyed the show.
In spite of a major hiccup being thrown into her plan Marie Jones can still smile as she strolls along in her Serenity inspired leather get-up. Her grin only grows the closer she gets to the armored truck that has kept Serenity contained throughout the night.
Marie: Did you get a chance to see it Serenity? Huh? Did the ‘coppers’ provide you with a tablet to let you watch as I shattered your pathetic world?
An eager Marie leaps onto the running board of the armored truck and peers through the bulletproof window. All at once her laughter ends and her grin fades away, seeing something inside of the truck she had not anticipated.
Marie: No…..
She quickly opens the back doors of the armored truck and finds two bodies lying inside, neither of which being Serenity. The very same gentlemen she had impersonating police officers are strewn across the steel flooring with their frames mangled and left motionless. A seething Marie swings the truck doors shut.
Marie: Aaaaaabbbbiiiiggaaail….
IN RING
A black wreath is set up in the corner of the ring with several burning candles situated around it. The flames highlight the picture of Aaron Harrison centered inside of the wreath. A small alter seems to have been set up in tribute to the Blacklist member who was locked inside of a crate and set fire to several over a month ago. Greyson Lovejoy and Sparkles sound equally as confused by this bizarre set up within the ring.
Greyson: I guess the rumors were true, Sparkles.
Sparkles: That Jamie Lee Curtis was born with both sets of sexual organs?
Greyson: No, that Kellen Jeffries has a funeral planned for Aaron Harrison here tonight.
Sparkles: Oh, then Kellen’s burying a man who was born with no sex organs at all.
Greyson: Still holding a grudge against Harrison I see.
Sparkles: The man almost kicked the cotton stuffing out of me.
Greyson: Well I think he suffered enough for doing that, Sparkles He was locked inside of a crate and set fire to by Kellen Jeffries and Spencer Klein.
Klein: Dearly beloved….
The jarring visual of Spencer Klein clothed in a black suit and clerical collar has the crowd wincing. Many eyes avert from the unholy vision of Klein making his way down the ramp with a bible in one hand and a microphone in the other. Spencer makes his way up the steps and into the ring where the black wreath and shrine has been set in place for Harrison.
Klein: I understand you are gathered here for the purposes of closure. You want to say farewell, or most cases, say ‘good riddance,’ to Mr. Aaron Harrison. Don’t worry, each of Mr. Harrison’s past victi….I mean, FRIENDS, will have the opportunity to eulogize their lost acquaintance. Before they have that opportunity though, I would like to share my own thoughts on Mr. Harrison, given our closeness and long history together.
Spencer steps to a podium placed several inches away from the shrine. He pretends to dab his eyes and choke back his emotions before opening up about Harrison.
Klein: Many of you are well aware of the turbulent history between Harrison and I. It’s no secret that we had our fair share of problems stemming from Aaron’s stubborn refusal to abandon attachment to others, namely his former fiancée, Mika Kozlov. Yet in spite of all of our problems, I always had some degree of sympathy for Aaron. He honestly believed that his jaded past could be overlooked and that he could live a normal life. But men like Mr. Harrison, can never be normal, and there will always be those he wronged coming back to remind him of his checkered history. I’d like to introduce one of those men, one of those reminders that Harrison could never move on and be normal given the sins of his past….So everyone, please welcome the man who arranged this funeral….Mr. Kellen Jeffries!
”Cocky” plays through the PA system and there he is, Kellen Jeffries, clad in a black suit and clutching something tucked under his arm. He doesn’t even wait to reach the ring before beginning his eulogy. The moment his entrance music cuts out, his words replace these tunes.
Kellen: I just want to start off my eulogy by apologizing….apologizing for my actions. I ask for forgiveness.
The fans are shocked to hear remorse in Kellen’s tone.
Kellen: Wait-wait, before you get confused, I’m not asking forgiveness for the part I played in the torching of Aaron Harrison, I’m asking for forgiveness for forcing you people to be reminded that Harrison ever existed. I know it would be so easy to remove Harrison from your minds and forget about the man entirely, and I’m fairly confident that many of you HAVE scrubbed him from your minds, but I refuse to let Harrison just fade into obscurity. The man had a huge impact on my life.
Kellen slides into the ring, still holding something under his arm, being very careful with it.
Kellen: If it weren’t for Harrison, I never would have met Spencer Klein. He brought the two of us together.
Spencer beams with pride.
Kellen: And Harrison’s attempts to take my career actually strengthened me. They made me into the man you see before you today, the unbreakable machine, the remorseless and uncompassionate man who no longer obeys his conscious. So I owe quite the debt to Harrison for setting fire to me over a year ago. Yes, wrap your minds around that, I’m actually thanking Aaron Harrison for taking a bottle of liquor, dousing me in it and then throwing a burning lighter onto my back and setting me on fire. It actually HELPED ME. And I only wish Harrison could have benefited from my incendiary acts in the same way that I benefited. Unfortunately, when I set fire to Harrison, I didn’t make the same mistake he did when he lit me ablaze. There was nothing left of Aaron after I locked him in that crate and set it on fire. Nothing left but the ashes held in this urn.
The object Kellen has stuffed under his arm is raised, revealing an urn.
Kellen: Contained within this jar are the final remnants of a man who CANNOT be forgotten. If you stop remembering him, then you will stop remembering what I did to him, and that is unacceptable. I waited a year….A YEAR for my revenge on Harrison, and I will not allow my vindication to be forgotten. My wrath deserves recognition today and a thousand days from now. It cannot be ignored, it cannot be erased. You will be reminded of my payback every day until it is scarred into your memories just like the burns scarred into my back. You will never be able to shake the vision of that crate bursting into flames, the screams of the children watching Harrison burn inside, and the smell of his smoldering flesh. You will NEVER forget…WE will never forget.
The urn is lowered down to the canvas and placed in front of the wreath.
Kellen: We will never forget.
Jeffries drops to a knee and makes a pantomimes a cross over his chest.
Klein: Poignant and moving words, Mr. Jeffries. Thank you for that eulogy. Now is there anyone else who would like to pay their respects to the departed Mr. Harrison. If not, we will proceed with Mr. Jeffries’ match against Ember Young….
”Pop, Goes the Weasel” by Laughing Jack hits the speakers and every set of eyes, with the exception of Kellen’s, hit the entry way. Spencer is glaring up the ramp with noticeable unease but Kellen never takes his focus off the urn he kneels before. Not even the sight of Mika Kozlov in a black dress and dark veil can pull Kellen’s eyes form the urn that apparently contains the ashes of Aaron Harrison.
Aaron’s former fiancée, and the woman aided in having set on fire, makes her way down the ramp, giggling beneath her veil and twirling an object between her fingers. She slips through the ropes, careful to protect her long black funeral dress and the object she’s carrying. Once reaching the shrine erected in Harrison’s honor, Mika stoops down and pulls back her hood. She kneels right beside a somber Kellen, the two staring down at the urn and the black rose that Mika places beside it.
Mika: Goodbye my cowboy.
Mika bends forward and places a kiss on the urn.
Mika: Mika will miss you.
BACKSTAGE
Crissy Garner: It finally happens tonight.
Ember Young, the newest acquisition to the IWC, stands between her friends Samantha Raine and Crissy Garner, the trio discussing matters pertaining to Ember’s pending in ring IWC debut. They draw closer to the ring with Ember trying to remain centered and focused.
Samantha: Eager?
Ember: Just want to get it over with. Trying not to think too much about it.
Samantha: Fair enough. Don’t want to get yourself psyched out.
Ember: Exactly.
Crissy: Well let’s give you something else to think about. Like that disgusting Mason Van Stanton guy.
The mere mention of the agent’s name causes Ember to fight back her vomit.
Ember: That’s the LAST thing I want to think about. I can still feel his pervy eyes all over me.
Crissy: Really wish we had caught up with him on NewAge.
Marina: You’re not the only one.
Marina Valdivida, the Hollywood starlet herself, steps into the intended path of Raine, Young and Garner, insisting upon a moment of their time.
Samantha: Excuse you.
Marina: Sorry to get in your way. Just wanted to show a little solidarity.
Crissy and Samantha chuckle.
Samantha: Solidarity? Sweetheart, you’re nowhere near on the same level as the three of us.
Marina: So you say.
Valdivia possesses a thick skin, keeping her from feeling insulted by such verbal jabs.
Marina: I just wanted to tell you that you’re not the only ones disgusted by Mason Van Stanton and regretting letting that slimball slip through their fingers on NewAge.
Samantha: Well you didn’t, now did you?
Ember: We’ll fix that mistake at the End of the Year Special, because I’m officially entered into the Noel Invitational, and not only will I win the whole thing and become number one contender for the Queen of the Ring Title, but then I’ll slap the taste out of that worm Van Stanton’s mouth.
Marina: That sounds great.
Young, Raine and Garner begin to walk towards the ring only to have Marina grab hold of Young’s wrist.
Marina: But you know what sounds even better? Marina Valdivia winning the Noel Invitational, becoming number one contender for the Queen of the Ring Title, and then beating the ugly out of Van Stanton.
Ember: Dream on lil girl, dream on.
Young at last follows her cohorts down the corridor and in the direction of the ring. Marina watches them walk away, but little do they know that Marina is not the only one watching. Mason Van Stanton emerges from an adjacent corridor some distance away, trailed by his client Gloria Noel. While Gloria just looks down at the floor taking deep breaths, Van Stanton gives the group of ladies intent on assaulting him the most repulsed of glares.
Van Stanton: So everyone is jumping at the chance to fall at your hands Noel in our very first Invitational.
Gloria: Yeah-yeah-yeah.
Van Stanton: It’s no surprise to me that all leap at the opportunity to associate with the Noel legacy.
Gloria: Uh-huh.
Van Stanton: I believe with so many eager participants lining up to compete in the Invitational that it’s at last time to properly acquaint them with the rules. Come on my dear.
Van Stanton tugs on Gloria’s wrist and escorts her down the hall and towards the squared circle.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
Although it probably violates about a thousand privacy laws, cameras venture into the women’s lockeroom where Marina Valdivia is packing up her belongings to leave, Lilith Evans is busy showering her daughter with affection, and several other ladies are stretching in preparation for their respective dark matches.
Gloria: Here-he, here-he, here-he!
All eyes instantly race to Gloria Noel, a woman forced into the ranks of the Noel family, and forced into making this pending announcement.
Gloria: I am here via request of my agent Mason Van Stanton to inform you all to pay the utmost attention to the ring where Mason Van Stanton will make an announcement regarding an added stipulation to the Noel Invitational. That is all.
Gloria turns to leave before Marina reaches out and places a hand on her shoulder.
Marina: Uhhh, hold on there one second dear.
Gloria brushes the hand away.
Marina: Do you actually LIKE being Mason Van Stanton’s puppet?
Gloria: I’m no one’s puppet.
Marina: That’s strange, because in my opinion, it looks like you aren’t very happy with the actions of your agent.
For a moment Noel goes silent.
Gloria: It’s a complicated situation.
Marina: Then un-complicate it.
Gloria: Hmmm..just watch the ring and wait for Van Stanton’s announcement.
Gloria walks away from she has to endure any more of the advice being given by the ladies in the lockeroom.
KELLEN JEFFRIES VS. EMBER YOUNG
The show returns to the ring where Kellen Jeffries is still kneeling in front of an urn with a lipstick stain on its surface. The shrine for Aaron Harrison’s funeral has been removed from the squared circle and now Spencer Klein is standing on the outside of the ring, glaring inside at his associate Kellen. Greyson and Sparkles are also glaring at the ring from the commentators table, voices trembling with shock in regards to what they just witnessed before the break.
Greyson: Well, what we saw before the commercial break was certainly….something.
Sparkles: I never thought I’d say this, but that funeral actually moved me to tears.
Greyson: You have no tear ducts, Sparkles.
Sparkles: Then what’s seeping out of my eyes.
Greyson: Probably sweat from the hand I have up your rear. Putting your hand in a puppet all night tends to make my hand sweaty.
Sparkles: Oh, gross.
Greyson: Agreed. But no more gross than what we witnessed before the break when Kellen Jeffries and Spencer Klein held a funeral for Aaron Harrison, the man they set on fire four weeks ago on Riot.
Sparkles: It was a moving moment, Greyson.
Greyson: No, it was sickening beyond belief, and I pray that Kellen Jeffries’ opponent this evening, the debuting Ember Young, makes him answer for that deplorable scene we were all just forced to witness.
The arena suddenly goes dark and for a moment it looks like nothing is going to happen, but then lights underneath stage start to slowly fade in and a flicker in a way to simulate the look of the stage being on fire. The fans in the arena break out in to cheering as “My friends say you’re messing with my mind, but I’m already crazy and I feel fine” comes through the speaker system to signal the start of Katie Armiger’s “Playin’ with Fire”.
Sparkles: Oh goodie, a chance to do background vocals.
Greyson: Background vocals?
Sparkles: Yep. And I heard somebody say, “Burn, baby, burn! Disco Inferno!”
Greyson: That’s not even the right song!
Sparkles: Well, maybe next time there’s a fire, you’ll bring marshmallows!
Greyson: After that last segment the last thing I want to talk about our fires, Sparkles.
“As I cross this line between wrong and right, You can’t put this out like a cigarette
Cause I’m already lit and this ain’t done yet, I’ll just bet you’re something I won’t forget
It’s like being in the eye of a hurricane, With the wind and rain crashing all around me”
A spotlight hits the top of the ramp showing Ember standing at the top of the ramp by herself. She is of course wearing a sexy version of a correctional facilities’ jumpsuit that’s made with white fabric with black lettering for the numbers on the left side of the chest and Property of Bad Behavior on the back. The jumpsuit’s pants have been cut down to look more like Daisy Dukes, and she isn’t wearing her over shirt portion as it’s tied around her waist. Instead she’s wearing a black bikini top that’s covered by a white fishnet top.
Sparkles: Okay, what’s it gonna be today, Lovey? Either “I demand solitary confinement with that girl”, “Oooo, Ember’s come to pay me a conjugal visit!”, or “What was her crime? Being that fine? If so, she’s guilty!”. You pick.
Lovejoy: I pick the one where you don’t talk for a bit.
Sparkles: Solitary confinement it is!
“I’m drawn like a moth to flame, Oh and after this I won’t be the same
I know you’re like playing with fire but I like the burn, Momma said I should cut and run
That I’m on the wrong end of this smoking gun, All wrapped up, what’s done is done
I could see it coming from a mile away, I could feel the heat, but there’s no escape”
Ember stands there with her hands on her hips as she bobs her head along with the beat of the song with a smile of pure excitement on her face.
Sparkles (also bobbing to song): Kellen’s bobbing, Ember’s bobbing, I’m bobbing. Oh! Sparkles-Bobbleheads! We’ll make millions!
Greyson: I seriously doubt that.
Sparkles ignores him, continuing to bob his head with Ember. Meanwhile, Ember starts to do a little seductive dance that gets a few cat calls from some of men and women in attendance. There is slight disappointment for the fans when she finally stops her dance and starts to make her way down to the ring. Along her way down to the ring she stops and high fives a few fans and hugs a couple of others, but it ends all to soon when she reaches the ring and has to walk up the ring steps up to the apron. She moves to the center of the center continuing to smile.
“Burn me down, I don’t do things halfway, It’s like being in the eye of a hurricane
With the wind and rain crashing all around me, I’m drawn like a moth to flame
Oh and after this I won’t be the same, I know you’re like playing with fire but I like the burn”
Ember puts both of her hands on to the top rope as she spins around to where her back is up against it. She looks out at the fans for a second before she starts to blow them kisses. Though she doesn’t keep that up for too long as she places her hands back on to the top rope again, but this time so she could lean forward away from the ropes. Then in an instance she throws herself back against the ropes, cutting a back flip in to the ring. Once she is has her balance under check she moves to the corner turnbuckle on the opposite side of the ring and climbs up to the top and starts to blow kisses at the fans on this side of the ring. Just before the lights in the ring return there is a small explosion as a mixture of white and black pyro shoot up from the ring posts.
Sparkles: And now, a half hour later after everyone’s made their entrances, we can start THE MATCH!
Kellen finally rises from his knees and takes the urn that apparently contains Harrison’s ashes, handing them through the ropes to Spencer for safe keeping. The official calls for the bell, but it is barely heard by all before Kellen Jeffries rushes at Ember Young, body splashing her into the turnbuckle. Ember barely has time to register an expression of shock before she is crashed into the turnbuckle.
Greyson: And Kellen wasting no time to start the offensive.
Sparkles: I CALL FOUL! Ember wasn’t ready!
Greyson: You were expecting a warning? “Ready, here I come!”?
Sparkles: Sure.
Greyson: That’s what the bell is for!
Kellen does not cease his attack as he unloads a series of punches to the face and stomach of Ember Young. Grabbing her by the hair, he drops down and monkey tosses her across the ring before pulling himself up and holding his arms out, instantly gaining a series of jeers from the audience.
Kellen: I do this in your loving memory of Aaron Harrison.
He calls out before stomping away at the still dazed Ember. However, Ember does not remain dazed for long, rolling out of the ring to collect her bearings, rubbing her head and neck as she regains her composure. All the while Spencer is pointing and laughing at her, placing the urn with Harrison’s ashes in it on the steel steps.
Greyson: And Ember doing, probably, the smartest thing and rolling out of the ring to collect herself.
Sparkles: She stopped, she dropped and she rolled out of trouble!
Greyson: And Kellen less than impressed.
Inside the ring, Kellen holds his arms up, mocking and laughing at Ember, a similiar set of actions as that of Spencer Klein.
Klein: Too much for you? Hmmm?
Ember Young ignores the squawking voice and slowly pulls herself up the ropes to stand on the apron. As she does, however, Kellen swings with a right hook. Ember drops down just in time to avoid the hit. Again, she is mocked by both Kellen and Spencer. Quickly, she pulls herself up to the ropes and Kellen swings again. This time, however, Ember drops down and grabs the leg of Kellen, pulling it to trip him up.
Landing on the mat with a dull thud, Kellen jumps back up to his feet but it is too late, as Ember has already slid into the ring and nails him with a swinging neckbreaker. Kellen barely has time to get up before Ember snaps him back with a snap suplex. The crowd is shouting their support as Ember flips over into a pinfall on Kellen but only manages a 1 before Ember tosses her off.
Back on her feet, Ember’s eyes catch Jeffries getting to his feet. The two lockup, fighting for an inch, only for Jeffries to throw Ember Young to the ropes. As she rebounds back, he catches her with a running kneelift. Jerking her back up from the blow, Kellen catches Ember with a rolling snapmare and lastly, into a headlock to finish the chain. As the official checks on Ember however-
Sparkles: Hey! What’s that?
Lovejoy: Kellen with the thumb!
– the official sees that, along with the headlock, Kellen is pressing his thumb into Ember’s eye-socket! Immediately, the official demands that Kellen release the hold! Despite an initial refusal, Kellen obeys the second order, slamming Ember down onto the mat and stepping on top of her and over her to gloat once more to the audience.
Sparkles: Again with the posing. It’s like watching a bad Sears commercial.
As Young clutches her eye, rubbing it with one hand, Kellen returns to pull Ember back to her feet. He doesn’t have time to prepare for the suddenly punch that knocks him right in the kisser, sending stumbling back to the turnbuckle.
Sparkles: Whoa, what a shot! I think Kellen’s moved to a different postal code!
Greyson: And Ember- look out!
Kellen doesn’t have the ability to hear or heed the warning as Ember runs back but then forward and jumps, driving her knee into Jeffries’ skull. Jumping down, Ember watches Kellen collapse to the mat before turning him over and going for the pin.
1
2
No, Jeffries manages to get the arm up. Checking her position, Ember quickly jumps onto the turnbuckle, but finds herself unable to jump as-
Greyson: Wha- Spencer’s got Ember’s leg!
Sparkles: That lucky bastard!
As fast as she can, Ember kicks Spencer away from her, but it is still too late, as Kellen is suddenly there with another thumb to the eye. He quickly drags her down off of the turnbuckle and across his shoulders before running to the center of the ring and delivering the death valley driver.
Greyson: That’s the very same move that finished off Lukas Montgomery on New Age.
Sparkles: I wonder why Lukas didn’t show up to pay his respects during the funeral to pay respects to his fallen Blacklist stable-mate, Aaron Harrison.
Greyson: I think he’s a little too busy chasing William Mayne around backstage.
Kellen sits up looking as arrogant and confident as always. That’s before that arrogance fades away, his face flashing white hot with anger when he realizes that the urn he entrusted Spencer to protect is no longer sitting on the steel steps. His eyes shoot towards Spencer.
Kellen: Where is it? Where’s Harrison?
Spencer shrugs his shoulders.
Kellen: Who took Harrison’s ashes!?!
Kellen is so fixated on the missing urn that he doesn’t he even realize that Ember is catching him around the arms and rolling him over into a crucifix style pin.
1
2
In spite of all of Kellen’s kicking and trashing, he cannot get his shoulder up in time.
Greyson: WHOA! Kellen so obsessed with the urn apparently holding Harrison’s ashes it caused him to get rolled up.
Sparkles: Who took the urn?
Greyson: I don’t know, I was actually paying attention to the match.
Sparkles: The hell you say.
Kellen scrambles to his feet with his face flushed with anger, watching as Ember rolls out of the ring and continues to celebrate her victory here in her debut. Spencer slides into the ring and tries to console Kellen after this loss, but Jeffries isn’t as angry about his loss as he is the theft of the urn.
A winded and wounded Ember turns her back to the ring and makes her way up the ramp before stopping just shy of the curtains and for good reason. A smiling Mason Van Stanton has just made his way to the stage holding onto a microphone and wearing a grin that makes Ember’s skin want to crawl right off of her body.
Greyson: What is this goof doing out here?
Sparkles: I like Mason Van Stanton, he and I share similar opinions of the woman’s roster.
Greyson: Well that would explain why he turns my stomach then.
The repulsive smirk on Mason’s face widens as he directs his comments to the microphone in his hand.
Van Stanton: Ah, so nice of you to join me out here to no doubt eagerly anticipate my announcement.
Ember: I was already out here way before you showed up….
Van Stanton: SILENCE!
Ember silently steams, plotting all the things she would like to do Van Stanton.
Van Stanton: I hope the Twitterverse is ready, because I’m about to give them something truly trend worthy. At long last I am here to announce the rules of the Noel Invitational.
Sparkles: Sweeet.
Greyson: Who in their right mind gave Mason Van Stanton the right to not only book his own matches, but name the stipulations of them as well?
Sparkles: Shoooo.
Van Stanton: We already know that the Noel Invitational will be contested for the number one contendership for the Queen of the Ring Championship. That is only one prize though. For perhaps the greatest prize of them all will be seeing each and every combatant in that match, with the exception of Gloria Noel, stripped down bear. Because the Noel Invitational will be a Bra and Panties match. That’s right, the only way to win is to be the one woman who is not stripped of their clothes. Can you just imagine it? I know I can.
The corners of Van Stanton’s mouth begin to turn downward, as do his eyes, noticing the twinges in his undershorts.
Van Stanton: Hmmmm, looks like I’m going to be standing here for a while.
BACKSTAGE
A contract, no, THE contract that Kloe Masters has been carrying around throughout the night finds itself the focal point of the camera. The dotted line that is supposed to feature a signature remains empty, for who knows how much longer. The camera slowly pulls back from the document to the woman clutching it. The Majority Owner Kloe Masters stands beside backstage interviewer Axl Evermore just inches removed from the curtains leading to the ramp-way.
Axl: Well Kloe….
Kloe: Mrs. Masters..
Axl: Oh, my bad, well KLOE….
Kloe scowls at the interviewer.
Axl: It’s almost time for our scheduled ‘main event’ this evening….
Yes, quotation fingers were employed.
Kloe: And what a main event it should be.
Axl: Yeeeeeaaah, that’s your opinion.
Again Kloe squints rather piercingly in the interviewer’s direction.
Kloe: Is there something wrong, Axl? If so, I urge you to PLEASE express yourself. There’s no comment taboo under the Sinistry/Masters regime.
Axl: You want to know my honest opinion on this whole handicap crucifixion match?
Kloe: Of course.
Axl: Alright, I’ll try to sugarcoat this as much as possible, I think the fact that your forcing Orlando Cruze and Kelcey Wallace into a match against the entire Sinistry is absolute BULLSHIT.
This crass comment results in a chuckle from Masters.
Kloe: Well thank you for being candid with me, Axl. I truly value the opinion of all of my employees, even if your opinions are entirely inaccurate. There’s clearly been a miscommunication between us. It’s not ME who’s forcing Orlando and Wallace into this Crucifixion match, it’s Taylor Chase. Allll Tay had to do was sign this document….(holds contract up)….that’s it.
Axl: You honestly think Tay is going to sign anything that cancels the stipulation for her match against Ba’al? That she’d go back on any opportunity to give Orlando back his 50% ownership of this company?
Kloe: Tay doesn’t care about her husband, she never has. She’s only obsessed with her own self-interest. She wants to be the SAVIOR of the IWC. Pfft….Tay is nothing but a showboating glory hound, and that’s the only reason she refuses to sign this document. And in a matter of minutes I’m going to test just how stubbornly she can cling to the spotlight. Let’s find out how much she’s willing to sacrifice just to get her exposure.
Axl: So your honestly going to force Orlando, your ex-husband, a man who just a few weeks ago was clinging to his life, to compete against the very group that left him on life support?
Kloe: Yep.
Axl: That’s just so malicious….
Kloe: Listen Axl, I’ll do whatever it takes…WHATEVER it takes to ensure that this company succeeds, and if it means taking out Orlando and Kelcey to get Taylor to sign this document, so be it. And just to make sure Tay doesn’t interfere in what’s about to happen to her husband and her best friend, Silas Mason came to me with a proposition, one that I believe has a lot of potential.
Axl: This should be good.
Kloe: In a few minutes when that Handicap Crucifixion Match happens, I’ll allow Taylor Chase to be at ringside to get a front row glimpse of the effect her pride has on her friends. But, if Tay’s going to be at ringside, I’m going to make sure she cannot interfere. So I’m going to have Taylor wear this….
Kloe snaps her fingers and from the shadows emerges Decay, Ba’al’s faithful servant. It isn’t Decay that has the attention of the crowd though it’s the strait-jacket stretched between his hands.
Kloe: Tonight, Taylor Chase will stand front and center to watch the destruction of those she cares the most about, all while wearing this strait-jacket. Hehehehehe.
Axl: That’s….that’s…..terrible.
Kloe: Again, I appreciate your opinion, Axl. It’s rate to hear an employee be so honest and forthright.
Masters and Decay begin to head for the ring.
Kloe: Oh, and one more thing Axl?
Axl: What’s that?
Kloe: You’re fired.
COMMERCIAL
BACKSTAGE
A monitor consumes the screen showing footage of the Brod valiantly fighting Ba’al in the center of the ring only to have his skull eventually crushed by a Singapore Cane. The results of this blow from the weapon in Ba’al’s hand, is the Brod’s crucifixion. He is loaded upon a cross that rises towards the rafters, the patriarch of the Chase family bleeding profusely from the multiple blows he withstood at the hands of the World Champion. Ba’al kneels beneath the Brod, looking up into the deluge of blood pouring from his victim’s body.
Finally the camera pulls back from the monitor and captures the person watching this scene filmed earlier in the night. Taylor Chase, daughter of the Brod and number one contender for the World Championship stands there and watches what Ba’al did to her father. Once the scene ends, Taylor lifts a remote into the air and rewinds the footage, viewing it all over again.
Kelcey: I think you’ve seen this enough.
Taylor’s best friend steps in and takes the remote from Taylor’s hand, hitting the pause button. Orlando then moves to Taylor’s opposite side but doesn’t take anything from her, instead he embraces her with his hands on her shoulders.
Orlando: Not healthy for you to keep watching that.
Taylor: No, what’s not healthy is the two of you stepping into the ring tonight fighting for me. Look at what happened to my father when he tried that. I won’t watch what happened to him, happen to the two of you….
Kelcey: Please tell me you’re not considering signing that contract.
Orlando: You can’t do it, Tay, I won’t allow it.
Kelcey: If you think you’re protecting us by nullifying that stipulation on your Title match, you’re not. Because just think what the Sinistry will do to us, and this roster if they remain in power after the End of the Year Special.
Orlando: I’ll sacrifice myself a thousand times over if it means taking their power away from them and placing it in the hands of those who can and will take the IWC in the right direction.
Kelcey: We’re willing to go down swinging tonight Tay if it means you keep that stipulation on your title match at the End of the Year Special.
Taylor: I can’t watch you two be crucified. It’s NOT happening.
Orlando: It doesn’t even matter if we’re crucified, Tay, because at least we’ll take down some of the Sinistry in the process.
Kelcey: And maybe we’ll get our hands on Ba’al too, soften him up a little for the pay-per-view.
Taylor: Listen….
Orlando: No, you need to listen…
Cruze turns to Tay and slips his hands over her cheeks.
Orlando: For six months you’ve waited for your match with Ba’al. For six months you’ve cleared one hurdle after another. You’ve overcome obstacle after obstacle after obstacle. You’ve been betrayed by your best friends, manipulated by your agent, and forced to watch those you love destroyed at Ba’al’s hands. For six months Ba’al and the Sinistry have done everything in their power to ruin your life. There’s no going back now, not when you’re so close to finally making them pay for everything they’ve done. Not when you’re so close to saving this company.
Kelcey: No matter what the Sinistry does to Orlando and I out there in this Crucifixion match, it will all be worth it as long as you beat Ba’al at the End of the Year Special and finally stop the Sinistry.
KELCEY WALLACE & ORLANDO CRUZE VS. THE SINISTRY:
HANDICAP CRUCIFIXION MATCH
Cameras instantly open inside of the Manhattan Center to find two enormous crucifixes slanted against the turnbuckles. There is a chilling vibe in the building, goosebumps forming in anticipation of this brutal bloodletting moments from occurring.
”YOU KNOW MY NAME”
In spite of the hairy situation that their beloved Perfect 10 and Icon are on the cusp of competing in, the fans still leap to their feet to embrace the former SCW World Champion and the former IWC President. Kelcey Wallace and Orlando Cruze make their way through the curtains with an emotional Taylor Chase stood behind her best friend and her husband. Distress can be seen in the lines of Taylor’s face as she walks between the two most important people in her life on their way down the ramp and into the ring.
Greyson: This is disgusting, Sparkles, absolutely disgusting.
Sparkles: Come on, Orlando’s face doesn’t look THAT bad.
Greyson: Not what I was talking about, Sparkles. I’m referring to this malicious booking from Kloe Masters. She’s forcing Orlando Cruze and Kelcey Wallace to compete in a handicap crucifixion match against every member of the Sinistry.
Sparkles: Yeah, but it all can be avoided if Taylor just signs that contract…
Greyson: A contract that nullifies the stipulation she placed on the match between she and Ba’al at the End of the Year Special, which states that if she wins the match and the title, then Tay’s husband regains the ownership of the company that Kloe stole from him. It’s so sad that when we get the faintest glimmer of hope, the Sinistry finds a way to destroy it.
Sparkles: Hope won’t be the only thing destroyed here tonight.
Tay climbs up onto the apron and watches as Orlando and Kelcey step into the ring where they prepare for perhaps the greatest challenge ever placed before them. Their focus shifts to the crosses slanted against the ropes the very object that Broderick Chase and Scott Cannon were crucified on earlier tonight. Taylor takes a deep breath, trying to summon the strength to see this match through to the bitter end.
A strength challenged once that same gothic rendition of “Ring Around the Rosies” starts to filter through the speakers and through the curtains strides Kloe Masters with contract in hand. She is followed by an absolute army. Decay stands behind one of her shoulders clutching a strait-jacket, one that will find itself around the body of Taylor Chase. Trailing behind them are Aiken Frost and his New Eden consisting of Silk, Mika Kozlov, Red Rayne and Mogui. Krauzer is also amongst the ranks of the Sinistry, and if he’s not enough to give the group a physical advantage, we have Rachel Foxx stood between Jessica Wilde and the seven foot Executioner. Jaina Frost also emerges with her own protection in the form of the enormous Hunter Locke, and the pint-sized Desmond Drake. But wait, that’s not all, because trailing them is a neck brace sporting William Mayne, who stands alongside referees Stuart Wright, Patrick Fitzpatrick and Alex Ingelson, all three men wearing SIN patches on the chests of their striped jerseys. And lastly there’s SIN GM Franklin Paradise.
Greyson: Good lord look at the force gathered here.
Sparkles: You don’t realize the full reach of the Sinistry until you see the numbers they have assembled.
Greyson: They have enough members to build their own nation.
Sparkles: They have referees, former ring announcers and commentators, members of the security staff, and even the President. It just goes to show how deeply they have infiltrated this company.
Greyson: They’ve been working for a year to fully take over and transform the IWC, but one person has the chance to undo all of that hard work. Taylor Chase.
Tay presently glares at the forces of the Sinistry who consume the entire length of the ramp and prepare to take over the ring. Of all the people she could fixate on, it’s Kloe Masters who has captured Taylor’s focus above all else.
Kloe: Did you think I was bluffing?
Kloe holds up a microphone and a contract.
Kloe: I never lie, unless it suits me, Tay, so when I said Orlando and Kelcey were going to face the entire Sinistry in this Crucifixion Match, I wasn’t lying. I promised that the same fate that befell your father, would be suffered tenfold upon them. Buuuuuut, it’s not too late, Tay, we can avoid a very VERY messy situation if you just sign this contract.
Masters holds up the document but Taylor’s eyes never leave Masters’ face.
Kloe: Either you sign it, or you step out here and slip your arms into this strait-jacket, then watch as the Sinistry puts your husband back on life support and ends your best friend’s wrestling career. Can you handle having that on your conscious?
The conviction we’ve seen in Taylor’s expression begins to fade. At last she breaks away from Kelcey and Orlando who are pleading with her to stop as the Number One Contender rolls to the outside of the ring and approaches the contract extending from Kloe’s hand.
Kloe: That a girl, do the right thing by your family and by this company.
The document is taken from Kloe’s hand and Taylor examines it for all of a second. She somberly scans the fine print before taking a deep breath and then doing precisely what needs to be done. The documents are taken off the clipboard and ripped right in half.
Greyson: Yes…YES!
Taylor continues tearing the contract to pieces before throwing it into the air, confetti falling over Kloe’s head. The President’s lower lip begins to tremble, her whole face going blood red.
Kloe: CRUCIFY THEM!
Before Taylor can react Decay is right on top of her, smothering her with the strait-jacket and trying to bind her arms. Neither Orlando nor Kelcey will allow this fate to befall Tay, the pair beginning to exit the ring only to suddenly be caught from behind. For the third time tonight Ba’al capitalizes on the distraction presented by Kloe Masters in order to slide into the ring behind his opponents and lunge right on top of them. Before Orlando knows what’s happening, his body is being dragged down to the canvas and the back of his head is spiked into the canvas via the Totalis.
Sparkles: Yes…YES!
The crowd is stunned at the sight of Orlando’s head taking this blow. He wraps his hands around his skull, one that only a few months ago was split open and subjected to emergent surgery to stave off the effects of internal hemorrhaging. Kelcey spots Ba’al and now rushes across the ring diving shoulder first into the SIN Champion’s stomach, driving him back into the turnbuckle. She begins to deliver punches repeatedly to both sides of his stomach. She is right on the cusp of getting revenge on the Champion only to find herself overwhelmed when Mika and Silk lunge on top of her, delivering clubbing blows and kicks to her mid-section. Kelcey collapses to her knees only to be pulled right back to her feet with her arms stretched out to her sides by Mika and Silk so she cannot defend herself from the deadly thrust kick that Red Rayne drills her under the chin with. The Perfect 10 hits the canvas, lying right there beside Orlando in a batted heap.
Greyson: Orlando and Kelcey trying to defend themselves, but the Sinistry is just TOO MUCH for any pair to handle.
To make matters worse, Taylor has been forced into the strait-jacket by Decay and Krauzer. She now kneels on the outside mats and watches the ring where her best friend and her husband are being savaged by the Sinistry.
Ba’al: STAND HER.
Jaina and SIN GM Franklin Paradise do exactly as instructed, forcing Kelcey up to her feet with her spine facing Ba’al, who instantly lunges into the air, catches Kelcey around her neck and delivers the Totalis.
Wallace grips at her skull, which soon finds itself into the clutches of Wilde and Executioner. The two force Wallace along to her feet and towards the crucifix, her body being wedged against its wooden surface. They now begin to strap her arms down.
Ba’al: STAND HIM.
Foxx takes one of Orlando’s wrists while Aiken grabs the other, the two tensely stare at one another over the body they force into cooperation with Ba’al’s demands. Orlando is stood up on legs that are completely incapable of supporting his body weight. He almost goes down several times once propped on his feet by the Sinistry. Foxx and Aiken ensure that Orlando will not go down, and Mogui makes sure his eyes are open, standing behind the former President while forcefully prying his eyelids back. Obviously Mogui wants Orlando to see what’s coming.
A gavel has been slid into the hand of Ba’al, who slowly approaches the surgically repaired skull of the Icon while patting the hammer against his own palm. The Champion is truly enjoying himself as he prepares to take the light from Orlando’s eyes.
Speaking of light in eyes, Taylor’s eyes are presently burning with rage as she kneels on the mats in the strait-jacket watching what’s about to happen to her husband. To further antagonize Taylor, she has Kloe Masters stooped beside her and filling the number one contender’s ear with such vile rhetoric.
Kloe: This is all on you, Taylor. YOU caused this!
Ba’al slowly retracts the hammer and is about to bring it down over the previously shattered skull of Orlando, all hope for the Icon lost before Scott Cannon comes bolting down the ramp.
Greyson: CANNON!
The newly crowned Tag Team Champion barrels down the ramp and sends Kloe bolting into the ring for safety. He does not pursue, instead he stays at ringside, glaring into the squared circle where the countless hordes of the Sinistry are urging him to enter. Instead of answering their demands, Cannon backs away from this battle in favor of aiding Taylor to her feet and then pointing ot the back.
Taylor: What are you doing? Help them!
Instead of lending aid to Orlando and Kelcey, Scott forces Taylor over his shoulder and begins to carry her towards the backstage area.
Greyson: Dammit Cannon….
Sparkles: He’s out here to protect Taylor. He doesn’t give a damn about Orlando or Kelcey.
Scott gets about half way up the ramp with the strait-jacket bound Taylor loaded over his shoulder before finally hearing what she screams into his ear.
Taylor: If you ever really cared about me you’d help them!
This particular poignant statement brings Scott to a dead halt. All at once he seemed burdened by his ‘conscious.’ He lowers Tay back down to her feet and then goes running straight for the ring to a massive pop from the crowd.
Greyson: Cannon coming to his senses.
Sparkles: And he’s coming straight after the Sinistry.
Cannon slides into the ring and swings his fist directly into the face of Krauzer, knocking him back. Scott then bats back Decay, then does the same to Mogui. He then turns back towards Decay only to have his face crushed by a devastating brogue kick. Decay stands over his victim with a twisted sneer.
Ba’al: Do not concern yourself with him….
The SIN Champion continues to direct his forces, Decay and Hunter, who looks to have gotten over the knock on his head he suffered earlier in the night, surround Orlando and force him onto the cross beside the one that Kelcey is loaded on top of. They begin to strap Orlando’s wrists to the crucifix, a moment that should elicit a dreadful response from the crowd. Instead the fans are going absolutely nuts, why? Because Ethan Von Aaron is scrambling towards the ring.
Greyson: Von Aaron! Ethan Von Aaron, he’s coming for Aiken Frost.
Ethan slides into the ring and goes right after Aiken but Executioner blocks his path. Ethan hits a double leg take down on the seven footer, dropping Executioner to the canvas then crawling on top of him and pummeling his face with punches. Just then Aiken rushes in beside Ethan and blasts him straight to the temple with a swift boot. The shot knocks Von Aaron onto his back, lying on the canvas right beside the unconscious Cannon. Referees Ingelson and Fitzpatrick begin to stomp away at Ethan repeatedly.
Greyson: But Ethan not enough to stop the Sinistry either.
The boots the SIN officiating staff deliver on Von Aaron come to a stop when Head IWC Referee Marcus Mayfield dives through the ropes and goes right after both men who stabbed him on the back on NewAge.
Sparkles: What the fudge? Marcus Mayfield getting involved now?
Greyson: Why not? Patrick Fitzpatrick and Alex Ingelson double crossed him on NewAge.
Marcus nails blows across the guts of the referees, but it’s a blow to the back of Mayfield’s neck that stops his fight before it ever truly gets started. Foxx charges in behind Mayfield and catches him to the shoulder blades with a leaping knee strike that knocks Mayfield to his stomach.
Kloe looks quite pleased over how this is turning out. She turns to gauge Taylor’s reaction as the number one contender kneels on the ramp….however, Tay is not the only one occupying the ramp. Kloe is disgusted to see Danny Darko, Chris Davids, Vanilla Skyy and Mya Denton racing towards the ring.
Greyson: PAIN & PLEASURE!
The odds begin to even up a little as these four slide into the ring and immediately begin to hit anything with a heartbeat. Krauzer is all at once overcome by both Davids and Denton, while Darko is goiung straight after Ba’al, nailing the World Champion with punches across the face. Skyy no sooner gets to her feet in the ring before ducking an attempted lariat by Wilde. Jessica then spins around and finds her head almost knocked off her shoulders by the White Out.
Skyy topples Wilde to the canvas and then inflicts the same punishment on her masked seven foot protector, hitting Executioner with the White Out as well.
It looks like Pain & Pleasure are turning the tide against the Sinistry before Mordecai comes sliding into the ring. He immediately grabs Darko by the shoulder, spinning him around then grabbing him by the throat. Before Danny can counter he’s being heaved into the air by the seven footer and chokeslammed into the middle of the ring.
Greyson: Dammit, Mordecai all over Darko.
Sparkles: Guess those two have some unfinished business after earlier tonight.
Now Skyy finds herself blindsided by a chop block to the back of her knee by Kozlov. The second Skyy falls to her back she’s subjected to stomps by Mogui and Silk.
Neither Davids or Denton fare any better than their partners, Krauzer catching Chris with a headbutt that knocks him to the canvas and Jaina and Desmond blindsiding Mya from behind, knocking her to the canvas where she’s pummeled with clubbing blows. Once again the Sinistry has reclaimed control, for all of about five seconds before Lukas Montgomery slips under the bottom rope with a steel chair in his hand. The Blacklist member stands up and throws the chair right into the face of an unsuspecting William Mayne. The commentator is knocked off of his feet and to the canvas and Montgomery employs his now free hands to swing knuckles into the faces of Jaina, Paradise and so many others.
Sparkles: Are you dense Montgomery? What makes you think you’ll do any better than everyone else who’s come out to fight the Sinistry.
Greyson: He seems to be holding his own at the moment.
Lukas knocks back everyone so that there is a clear cut path between he and Mika Kozlov. He points at Mika, who giggles and waves towards her former Blacklist compatriot. That’s when Lukas finds himself caught completely off guard by Spencer Klein and Kellen Jeffries, the NEW Blacklist.
Greyson: Don’t the Sinistry have enough of a number’s advantage out here without Kellen and Spencer joining in?
Sparkles: It looks like that advantage is about to dwindle.
Kellen and Klein may have put the Sinistry back in control of this brawl, but that control is tested when Andre Jordan and Gavin Taylor come leaping into the ring.
Greyson: TEAM EPIC joining the fray!
The two leap into the squared circle with Jordan throwing punches into the faces of Jeffries and Klein while Gavin fights it out with Mika and Rayne.
Greyson: The former Tag Team Champions answering the rally call.
Sparkles: Who else is going to leap into the middle of this?
Suddenly referees Stuart Wright and Alex Ingelson latch onto Andre’s legs, keeping his feet grounded ot the canvas and distracting him long enough for Rayne to nail Jordan under the jaw with a dangerous thrust kick. Dre collapses to the canvas right beside Gavin, who was just knocked out via the woman who slid into the ring with the Evolution Title in her clutches. The Stranger stands on the apron watching Kordy smack her belt across the back of Gavin’s head, knocking him to the canvas.
Sparkles: KOOOORDY! Kordy! Kordy! Kordy!
Greyson: She’s assaulting Gavin in retaliation for that superkick he gave her earlier tonight.
Sparkles: This is sheer pandemonium.
The ring is filled with bodies, either standing or toppled, but there are two figures who have the fixation of the crowd. Kelcey and Orlando remain strapped to their respective crucifixes while Ba’al urges them to ascend towards the rafters.
Ba’al: RISE!
The crosses look as if they’re about to be lifted towards the rafters with Taylor screaming on the ramp, forced to do nothing but watch as her friend and husband are crucified.
”MONSTER”
Kellen’s eyes almost shoot out of their sockets and Mika Kozlov’s head rises from the bodies at her feet to the body making its way through the curtains. Goosebumps have formed on the flesh of everyone either inside of the ring or gathered in the stands around it when Aaron Harrison comes stepping down the ramp with an urn in hand.
Sparkles: No! NOOO!
Greyson: I’m getting a cold chill down my spine right now….AARON HARRISON IS BACK!
Heads are shaking all over the building at the sight of the man who was burned alive inside of a crate just a few weeks ago on Riot. Kellen and Spencer, two of the three individuals responsible for putting Aaron out of action, find themselves the most surprised by what they are seeing. Their hearts are beating fast enough to give them a cardiac arrest as they watch Aaron climb up onto the apron with his hand occupied by the urn that went missing earlier tonight. Kellen quickly rushes across the ring and swings his fist at Harrison only to have his knuckles crushed by the urn swing by Harrison.
Jeffries turns away from Harrison, stooping over his knuckles and exposing his back to an even more devastating shot from the urn. Aaron enters the ring and knocks Kellen out. Aaron then dodges an attempted punch by Spencer, who’s momentum carries him around into a full circle, turning back to face the urn that bashes right over the top of Klein’s head.
Harrison not only takes down both members of the NEW Blacklist but provides the boost that the IWC needs to begin fighting back against the Sinistry. Kloe and Ba’al stand shoulder to shoulder, watching with disbelief as Andre catches a Mogui boot aimed at his face, pushes it away and then nails the Psycho Surgeon with a kick to the gut followed by a pedigree. At the same time Gavin is throwing punches into Kordy’s stomach, knocking her back into the ropes and then driving her through the cables with a shoulder block that sends the two spilling to the outside mats.
Darko and Skyy have Mordecai reeling back with punches across his jaw while Davids is jumping all over Krauzer, knocking him back into a turnbuckle and ultimately out of the ring. Mya grabs Desmond by the throat, choking his neck with both hands while Jaina tries her best to pry him off. The three eventually fall to the outside of the ring where Mya is still strangling the life out of Drake’s body.
Lukas Montgomery eventually works his way back up to his feet and shockingly stands beside Ethan Von Aaron as the two rush forward and nail Red Rayne, Silk, Aiken and Paradise with a quadruple clothesline that knocks them all over the ropes to the outside of the ring.
Mayfield is peppering the chins of Stuart Wright, Alex Ingelson and Patrick Fitzpatrick with European Uppercuts, eventually knocking all three men through the cables and to the outside. They just begin to stand up and dust one another off before Mayfield rushes across the ring and leaps over the top rope into a senton plancha, crashing down into all three SIN officials.
Kelcey is now undoing the straps that hold her in place before leaping off the crucifix and into a Lou Thez Press on a shocked Decay, the two collapsing to the canvas where she begins to blast him over and over against the chin. Decay rolls out of the ring, joining his Sinistry sisters and brethren. They are trying to get their wits about them before being rendered witless when Scott Cannon rushes at the cross Kelcey was strapped to, steps up it and then leaps off edge of the crucifix slanted against the ropes, diving into a big crossbody on all those at ringside.
They crash to the mats but only stay down for a few moments before fighting their way to their feet. That’s when Kelcey goes rushing across the ring, steps up the cross slanted against the ropes and leaps off the end of it into a corkscrew phoenix splash that nails almost the entire Sinistry at ringside, taking everyone to the mats.
All those in the Manhattan Center are standing and going absolutely nuts, especially when they realize there are just two bodies standing in the ring right now, Harrison and Kozlov. Mika looks through her jet black eyes at her former fiancée, the man she aided in setting fire to just a few weeks ago on Riot.
The excitement levels are off the charts as the crowd watches Mika and Aaron stepping through the bodies piled up all around them, going mono a mono in the middle of the ring.
Mika: I missed you cowboy.
Aaron: Mika.
Mika: Yes?
Aaron: Dosvidania.
The urn in Harrison’s palms swings right into Mika’s skull with enough force to knock Kozlov right off of her feet. Mika drops to the canvas and then rolls under the ropes while Aaron stands in the middle of the ring shouting with primal rage towards the heavens. He then turns rushes at the ropes and dives through them into a suicide headbutt that connects with a recovered Jeffries and Klein at ringside.
The reaction is indescribable at the moment and is only getting louder when the crowd spots Taylor being freed from her strait-jacket by her uncle Adam Chase on the rampway. With her arms free she now goes rushing towards the ring where Orlando is fighting to free himself from the cross he was strapped to. He’s got one arm lose, not the other, a fact Ba’al is taking advantage of. He grabs Orlando by the chin and pinches his cheeks together while pulling back the gavel still in Ba’al’s clutches.
Ba’al: This company is ours, Orlando, and so is it’s championship. They will always be mine!
Ba’al pulls back the gavel and is just about to swing it before Taylor slides into the ring and dives knee first into the hammer, knocking it out of Ba’al’s hand via the TKO.
Ba’al spirals into a circle, pulling his hand in close to his stomach and then falling through the ropes. Taylor quickly scrambles to her feet and helps her husband off of the cross, Orlando falling to his knees at the side of his wife once all of his injuries catch up with him. The crowd is enjoying this feel good moment, so naturally Kloe comes along to ruin it. With an absolute war consuming the ringside area behind her, Kloe stands up on the apron with microphone in hand.
Kloe: TAYLOR! You think you’ve proven something here!
Tay’s eyes at last cut from her husband to the red face of the majority owner.
Kloe: You’ve only proven that it’s time to take this to the next level. You want to stubbornly cling to your stipulation for the title match at the End of the Year Special? Fine? I’m adding one of my own. If you lose your match against Ba’al, you will never again receive another World Title match!
Taylor’s face twists into a sneer over this most recent change to her title bout. That sneer is removed when Ba’al returns to the ring, catches Chase by the shoulder and spins her around, delivering a punch square across her jaw. Taylor and Ba’al now begin to go back and forth with punches. The crowd rising and expressing their glee in response to this war between Ba’al and Taylor Chase coming just a few short weeks before their huge clash for the World Championship.
Greyson: Ba’al and Chase closing out the final Riot before the End of the Year Special.
Sparkles: These two will face off in the biggest Title match in IWC history.
Greyson: One way or another, the war will end!
The crowd is at a fevered pitch that could only be cured by a tub full of ice as Ba’al blasts Taylor with a right hand, and Taylor retaliates with a punch across Ba’al’s jaw. The two battle in the ring while the ringside area is consumed by the war between the IWC roster and the Sinistry.
IWC 