Wednesday Night Warfare October 21st 2009

[Yoko Satoshi]

Wednesday Night Warfare October 21st 2009

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Run Away Vs. Alex Trixer


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Lilith Dormieux vs. Trent Wheeler

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The Red Panther vs. Jonny Spade

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VorteX vs. The Ringleader

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High Roller & Michael Smart Vs. The Drinkin Boyz

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Jack Jefferson vs. Dave Shadow

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[Yoko Satoshi]

Wednesday Night Warfare begins tonight not with pyro, but with just the theme song. It takes the crowd a few moments to realize it's showtime, thinking at first it was some kind of soundcheck.

Pyro is a luxury, and an expensive one at that. Slowly phasing it out here and there saves a LOT of money.

Now, on with the show!

(OOC: Rather than leave unwritten matches totally blank, I will post their result).

[Yoko Satoshi]

Title: Champions Address
Credit: Chris Phenomenal and Senator.

The third edition of Wednesday Night Warfare comes to air to the smiling face of Chris Phenomenal on the Alphatron, his red bandana tied around his head and his newly won International Title over his shoulder.

Chris Phenomenal: Ladies and Gentleman, it is my pleasure to welcome each and every one of you to Wednesday Night Warfare, sponsored by Fredricks Fences, from chicken wire to electric, they’ve got ‘em all.

The crowd in attendance let’s the newly crowned International champion know of their discontent once again. Chris can’t help but smile even wider.

Chris Phenomenal: Personally, I’ve never been a fan of these recaps of the previous show, especially because Dave Shadow always seems to drone on, and on, and on after he shows us just exactly what happened. This clip however, I believe is far too valuable to be only shown once, so I’d like you all to wave so long to me, as we switch to the ending of last weeks Warfare main event.

Chris gives a sarcastic wave as the screen cuts to the main event, International Title contest featuring Dave Shadow and Chris Phenomenal from last Wednesday.

As Dave gets to his feet he looks down at Chris, setting him up, ready to connect with the Blink! And with the state of Chris, not fearing any big counter. As Chris slowly gets to his feet he reaches into his pocket before turning around right into the Blink! Of Dave. McNally: What the? However Chris does not fall, but instead it’s Dave, falling like a sack of potatoes, the fist of Chris Phenomenal connecting with the chin on an uppercut Edison: Look at his hand. A regular uppercut, not normally enough to take out a man has fallen Dave Shadow with the aid of the brass knuckles, glinting in the arena lights. McNally: He used those Brass Knuckles. The man who five months ago swore never to cheat in a match just used a pair of Brass Knuckles to knock out Dave Shadow. Damn him. As Chris quickly tucks the knuckles back into the pocket, the crowd is even more shocked as none other than Keiji Makabe is seen running down the ring, returning after his neck injury at the hands of Chris Phenomenal over one month ago. As Chris covers Dave Makabe slides into the ring and makes the count. …1 McNally: Not this way. …2 Edison: It’s over for Dave Shadow. …3!!!! Chris Phenomenal looks down, gassed and exhausted as he rolls over onto his back off of Dave Shadow as Keiji Makabe receives the title belt from a ring hand and lays it over the chest of Chris Phenomenal. Jones: Your winner, and NEW! ACW International Champion… CHRIS PHENOMENAL!

As the scene fades back to Chris, the audience live jeers again as Chris rubs his title, shining up the name plate.

Chris Phenomenal: So now, I sit before you, with my International Championship around my shoulder, Dave Shadow, again, losing a title he worked so hard for to me. In fact, seeing as how we’re only two months away from Winters Discontent, where Dave will cash in the Emperor of the Ring title shot that should have been mine, I figure that I should rest on my laurels. Do the bare minimum and hope that Dave beats Dan White or whomever the champion is at that point and take that title from him as well, finish off the trifecta.

Another set of jeers from the ACW faithful as Senator Steve Phillips comes into view, resting his hand on Chris’ shoulder.

Senator: Last Wednesday, we began our venture to the promised land. Cleansing ACW of any remnants of injustice, oppression and most certainly favoritism. The angel of death shall not Passover any house lest the mantle is stained in blood.

Chris Phenomenal: ]As is customed, the newly crowned International Champion usually competes the show after he has one the title. However I refused to be bound by such tradition. It is for that reason that Senator and I are not in attendance tonight.

A loud cheer from the ACW crowd at the announcement as Senator shrugs his shoulders and Chris rises up from his seat.

Chris Phenomenal: I would like to however, wish Dave Shadow luck tonight against Jack Jefferson. It’d be a shame if he injured him so much as to render him incapable of standing up to me after my next attack.

With that the screen cuts blank as the camera turns to Maxwell McNally and Eddie Edison.

McNally: Did he just say there was going to be another attack?

Edison: I believe he did, but the question is, on whom?

With that the screen cuts away to the backstage to the next segment.

[Yoko Satoshi]

Segment: Trust Issue (Credit: Yoko / Ringleader)

The smallest, most insignificant things that happen in life can, and often do, cause much larger things to happen... Not quite a butterfly effect, but similar.

Long ago in ACW, Yoko Satoshi and Rena Matheson were close friends. So long ago that many have forgotten. Before Rena had a diva division, and even before Yoko became gay.

At one point they split, but why? What caused it? What caused Rena in 2009, to go on the offensive and assault Yoko?

2004

During November, Yoko Satoshi and Michael Kross had a friendly rivalry with each other that led to a match at the pay-per-view show Hellbound Heart. In a complete surprise, Kross scored a clean pin and won. Later that very night, he was sent to the hospital after a brutal beating.

By who?

Someone dressed as Ghostface and using a croquet mallet, both signatures of Yoko. Very incriminating. Even moreso was the fact that Rena saw Yoko with the items. Despite being friends, Rena accused Yoko of it, causing Yoko of accusing Rena doing it to frame her. With Ginger angry and seeking to punish the offender, the truth was very important.

Yoko was framed alright, but by BK London, for political reasons.

But the crack in the friendship had formed, and with every attempt to sort it out came an arguement, deepening the crack. After Rena gave up on repair, there was one last discussion...

Rena: You need something?

Yoko: Well, no...But I talked to Ginger.

Rena: Ginger? About what?

Yoko: Us as a tag team. I didn't tell Rose yet...She'll be mad but it's ok.

Rena: What?

Yoko: Remember when you came up with the idea? Flower Power?

Rena: I'm sorry, I can't do it.

Yoko: I know we had a fight, but I accepted your apology, and you accepted mine.

Rena: That doesn't mean we're fine, Yoko. You know why I didn't trust you? Because you WOULD send someone to the hospital. I realized you're too dangerous. Too fucking dangerous.

Yoko: But...

Rena: No buts. I've told you twice already our friendship is over. Please get over it.

Yoko: That's what you want?

Rena: Yes.

Yoko: ...Ok then. I really value you as a friend, but if you feel that way, then...I guess I'll leave you alone.

Rena: Good. And just so you know, if you ever lay a hand on me outside of a match when you're in one of your moods, you'll be in huge trouble. I have Ginger wrapped around my finger.

Yoko: I won't be a problem, trust me. Er...Nevermind that last part. Just don't worry.

She leaves Rena's room.

End.

[Yoko Satoshi]

Match 1: ..::ACW::.. JOEY REYNOLDS VS. ALEX TRIXER ..::WARFARE::..

Time limit: 15 minutes
Referee: Joey Reynolds

-* Tale of the Tape *-

Alex Trixer
Age: 22
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 205
Hometown: Miami, Florida

Run Away
Age: 31
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 245
Hometown: Boston, Massachusetts

“United We Stand” by Threat Signal hits the arena and the fans begin to cheer as Run Away bursts out from behind the curtain and looks around. He soon forms a psychotic grin on his face and tugs at his beard before running down the ramp, tagging the hands of the fans. Run Away soon goes around the ringside area, continuing with his high fives before hopping onto the ring apron. He soon runs to the nearest turnbuckle and ascends to the second turnbuckle, tugging at his beard with another crazy smile. Run Away enters the ring and does some last minute stretching before the match begins. Already in the ring is Alex Trixer, who gets no entrance because he is Alex Trixer.

~!~DING,DING,DING~!~

MATCH START: The match starts up with some good old fashioned shoving by Trixer which is returned in full by the rookie, Run Away. This is followed with a lock up and out of it Run Away comes with a headlock. He grinds Trixer down to one knee and Alex frees himself with two well placed elbows into Run Away’s rib cage. Trixer then sends Run Away into the ropes with an Irish whip and bends down for a back body drop. Silly Trixer! He telegraphs the move a while away and Run Away is able to counter with a snap DDT! Trixer flies up off the mat and Run Away combos with a lariat and then keeps it going with a fall away slam called the ONE POINT FIVE! Trixer lands hard and Run Away covers for an early pin but only gets a one and a half. Up both men go and they meet once again with a lock up. Around and around they go, and it isn’t until they fall back up against the ropes that it comes to an end. With a cheap shot into Run Away’s mid-section, our match goes to the mid point with Trixer in front place.

MATCH MIDPOINT: The crowd have been booing Trixer without remorse as he follows up his low blow with several straight punches and kicks. Reynolds admonishment is ignored and it isn’t until Run Away puts his foot down and has enough that the tide begins to turn back in his favor. With a surge of energy he knocks Trixer off balance with a European uppercut. This leaves Trixer open long enough for the double armed suplex called the SANDWICH-PLEX! The crowd responds with a loud, “make me a sammitch, bitch,” chant that is applauded by Mr. Away! One pick up later Trixer gets an atomic drop/lariat combo and it’s time to go sky high! The fans watch on in amazement as Run Away goes to the top rope and sets himself up for a big moonsault. Try as he may, Trixer is unable to avoid the KINGDOMS FALL and Run Away is in perfect position for the win. He covers but only gets a two. Though Trixer kicks out, Run Away smells blood and as we head to the final seconds he goes for the jugular.

MATCH ENDING: The time is running out for Alex Trixer. Dazed and stunned, he is helpless to fight off Run Away’s offense. With ease Run Away picks up Alex and places him into a power bomb position. Stunning the crowd, he takes off running with him and drops him to the canvas like a ton of bricks. Already in position for a pin, Run Away simply takes hold of his opponent’s legs and rocks his body forward. He job done, the rest of the work belongs to Joey.

ONE!

TWO!!

THREE!!!

Phillip: And here is your winner, RUN AWAY!

[Yoko Satoshi]

I Challenge Thee to a Duel!
Jack Jefferson / Dan White


The crowd are on their feet, the booing deafening, as the opening strains of “Paint it Black” by The Rolling Stones bursts onto the speakers and Jack Jefferson swaggers out onto the stage. The fact he’s wearing his everyday clothes rather than his ring gear and it’s far earlier than he’s scheduled to be here doesn’t seem to improve the crowd’s mood. His presence must mean he’s here to talk and that doesn’t sit well with the fans who begin a “Shut the fuck up” chant before he’s even reached the ring. As he rolls into the ring, his smug smirk turned into a scowl, Jefferson is handed a mic by some unseen equipment runner. Jefferson doesn’t even wait for the crowd to stop chanting before launching into a tirade.

Jefferson: You know what? I’m sick of you hick bastards booing me. It’s the same thing every single fucking week, telling me to “shut the fuck up”. You ingrates don’t realise how lucky you are to be witnessing a prime talent like me at work. Later tonight you’re going to have the privilege of seeing me take apart your former International Champion...Dave Shadow!

There is another loud boo from those in attendance at the mention of Dave Shadow. One or two people cheer but they are completely drowned out by the vast majority who, of course, don’t like Shadow.

Jefferson: I am not here, however, to talk about Dave Shadow. No, I have more important things on my mind. Namely the ACW World Heavyweight Title. Dan White’s World Heavyweight Title! I am officially challenging you Dan. Me vs. You at Samhain for that title, what do you say?!

The crowd seem pleased that Jefferson hasn’t done his usual thing of talking for ages and breathe a collective sigh of relief as they turn to the AlphaTron. It takes a while but eventually an image of Dan White flickers onto the screen. He’s fiddling around with a microphone attached to his t-shirt. The crowd erupts with whooping, hollering, cheering and general merriment as Dan appears. He smiles, obviously able to hear their cheers from his position in the back.

Dan White: Does this thing work?

Crew Member: Yes Mr. White and...er... you’re on now.

Dan White: As in...on the screen?

Crew Member: ...yes.

Dan White: Shit! Ok...Jack Jefferson! Listen here you horrible little scrot. Who the hell do you think you are to challenge me? This is the ACW World Heavyweight Title, the biggest belt in the world, and you think you’re good enough to hold it? No chance! It wasn’t so long ago you lost in the final of Emperor of the Ring finals. That doesn’t mean you deserve a shot at my title! Until you do something that actually warrants a title shot you can forget it. The answer is...fuck off!

With that the AlphaTron turns off, displaying nothing but blackness. There is a slight pause as Jefferson stares blankly at the screen, stunned into silence, and the fans aren’t quite quick enough to react to Dan’s abrupt message. Before long though, they erupt with cheering and jeering directed at Jefferson who stands rooted to the spot in the centre of the ring, his facial expression becoming increasingly twisted and enraged as he continues to stare up at the blank screen where Dan used to be, his eyes blazing with hatred. Finally, as a “you’re not worthy” chant echoes around the arena, Jefferson regains his senses and brings the mic up to his lips to spit out a solitary, venom-filled statement.

Jefferson: I knew that fucking cunt was scared of me!

With that Jefferson throws the mic down onto the mat, the feedback causes a huge screech on the speakers which everyone cringes at. “Paint it Black” by The Rolling Stones accompanies him storming up the ramp and through the curtains without so much as taking his eyes off exactly what is directly in front of him. He even ignores the numerous taunts that follow him the entire way. Needless to say, Jack Jefferson is pissed off.


Fade to Black

[Yoko Satoshi]

Segment: Roll (Credit: Michael Smart)

The scene opens up with a shot of a locker room. On a bench in the locker room, besides a gym bag, a man is sitting, wearing blue tights and a white vest. The man is Michael Smart. Michael gets up, preparing to start flexing. He is stopped, however, by a knocking on the door.

Michael Smart: Come in.

The door opens. The camera pans back to fully show the room, revealing that the man behind the door is Daniel Smart, wearing a dark red shirt and green jeans and holding a big fuzzy dice. Michael looks at the dice with surprise and confusion.

Michael Smart: Uh... Daniel, why are you holding a huge dice?

Daniel Smart: Don't you know? You're teaming up with High Roller tonight!

Michael Smart: ...And?

Daniel Smart: And he has this dice-motif going on, so I decided to get this!

Daniel throws the dice on the ground. It rolls for a little while, it's size stopping from rolling fast. It eventually lands on a three.

Daniel Smart: Three? Eh, better than nothing.

Michael Smart: ...So are you going to give me a proper explanation?

Daniel Smart: Hm? Oh, yeah! Well, long story short, both me and Roller won a lot of money off slot machines in Vegas, so I felt obligated to honor tonight's team-up with something.

Michael Smart: And you thought the best way to do that was to get a huge dice?

Daniel Smart: Yeah. Besides, rolling it is fun!

Daniel picks the dice up again, throwing it to the ground for a second time. This time the dice lands on five.

Daniel Smart: Awesome!

Michael Smart: Well, good to know you're having fun, but I need to get ready for my match, so could you take that thing somewhere else?

Daniel Smart: What? No! This is mentally preparing you to team up with Roller!

Michael Smart: I fail to see your point.

Daniel Smart: Well, he picks his finisher for the match by rolling a dice, so I thought you should get ready for some dice-action too! Come on, at least roll it once.

Michael Smart: Fine, but only to get you to shut up.

Michael picks up the dice and throws it out of the door. Daniel runs after it to check the number.

Daniel Smart: You only got a two, cousin! That's not that good, but with a little practice... what are you doing?

While Daniel was talking, Michael was walking closer and closer to the door, and upon Daniel's question, closes the door and locks it. Daniel starts hitting the door.

Daniel Smart: Not again, cousin! Let me in!

Michael proceeds to quietly continue flexing as Daniel yells behind the door again while the scene fades to black.

[Yoko Satoshi]

FLOWER POWER

a revelation in retrospect[/b][/center][/color]

credit: Ringleader & Yoko & Sarin

2005

Another show in the ACW universe had concluded, and only a few late-night cameras were rolling as the scene opens in Rena's master bathroom within her office. Rena stood at her mirror wrapped in a cream-white towel, pulling at her face skin to inspect her pores. Steam rolled from the open concept shower, the sound of water dropping on the luxury tiles echoed throughout the living room-sized powder room. After Rena was convinced her pores were dirt-free and her skin was flawless, she plugged in her hair dryer and turned it on, bending at the waist as she blew the hot air through her luscious locks.

Moments passed as Rena whipped her head up, flipping her now-dry hair back behind her head. She scrunched at her hair quickly as a familiar voice poured from the steaming shower.

!!!:
Thanks for letting me use your shower, Rena! The locker room just doesn't get as hot as your shower does. I think you steal all the hot water in here!

RENA:
Oh you're welcome, babe. You know I don't mind sharing.

!!!:
It's so nice in here, I don't ever want to get out!

RENA:
*laughs* well you'll turn into a prune if you don't get out soon! It's been almost 45 minutes- save some hot water for the rest of the building.

!!!:
Ugh, 5 more minutes.

RENA:
I don't mind, but if you come out looking 80 years old I'm going to have to laugh.

!!!:
I think I'm done now. Pass me a towel, babe?

Rena grabbed a fresh towel and passed it through the steam as the shower stopped completely, the last few drops from the shower head heard throughout the room. Rena was now applying a light foundation as the familiar voice appeared from out of the steam. Rena looked towards the figure.

RENA:
Well, you don't look quite 80. Maybe 65.

SARIN:
Oh, stop!

RENA:
I'm only kidding.

SARIN:
Oh, that shower was just amazing!

Sarin sat on a nearby tiled bench and began to dry off her legs with the towel.

SARIN:
I can't wait until I have my own bathroom, though I assume it'd be more modest than this. You really went all out on it, didn't you?

RENA:
Only the best, babe. I just had it refinished. I think it looks fine, but I'm thinking of moving a few things around and maybe getting a new tile ... we'll see.

SARIN:
No rest for the wicked, huh?

RENA:
Nope. But don't worry, you'll have this all in due time.

SARIN:
I'm starting to think maybe sooner rather than later.

RENA:
Oh?

SARIN:
Yeah, I forgot to tell you. Yoko and-

RENA:
*disgusted* Yoko?

SARIN:
I know, I know ... just hear me out.

RENA:
Ugh.

SARIN:
I heard around that you two used to be friends.

RENA:
That was eons ago. Things have changed.

SARIN:
What happened?

RENA:
Long story. Maybe I'll tell it one stormy night over a crackling fire.

SARIN:
*laughing* alright. Anyways ...

Sarin stood up from her bench and began to towel off her hair while thinking about what she was going to say next.

SARIN:
Yoko and I have been hanging out. I know you don't like her, but she and I just happen to get along great.

RENA:
She must have a reason.

SARIN:
Well, kind of-

RENA:
*snorts* Figures.

SARIN:
Well, I mean, I'm not sure if she's being honest about her motives.

Rena cocked a brow towards her friend.

RENA:
Sarin, you're not making any sense.

SARIN:
Then stop interrupting!

RENA:
Alright, alright! Continue.

SARIN:
She made an offer to me.

RENA:
Oh, really? What kind of offer?

SARIN:
She SAYS wants us to be a tag team.

RENA:
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

SARIN:
What?

RENA:
You? Yoko? Tag? Are you serious?

Sarin nodded to Rena's questions, prompting Rena to laugh even harder.

RENA:
You know what she's trying to do, right?

SARIN:
I think it might just be a cover to get closer to me. I know I'm her type.

RENA:
No, she knows you and I are friends, and she wants to get revenge on me.

SARIN:
Rena, seriously-

RENA:
No, I'm completely serious! She's just trying to drive a wedge between our friendship by becoming your ally.

SARIN:
Oh, stop trying to turn this into some kind of twisted plot in the revenge plan against Rena Matheson. Yoko has not once mentioned you, and the fact that you are suggesting the only reason Yoko is talking to me is to get to you is insulting!

RENA:
Fine, I'm sorry.

SARIN:
*exhales* It's fine. I just don't think she'd do that, especially if she's interested in me.

RENA:
Yeah, you're right. She's vicious, but not petty.

SARIN:
I think I might accept her tag team offer. Professionally, it'll give me a chance to prove myself by keeping up with the best.

Rena wanted to shake her in hopes that it would rattle some sense into her- but instead she chose to bite her lip.

RENA:
Well, that's exciting!

SARIN:
Can you imagine? SARIN AND YOKO! FLOWER PLOWER!

RENA:
What!?

SARIN:
I know, it's kind of a silly name- but Yoko suggested it and who am I to counter the suggestion? I'm not one-hundred percent good with names anyways.

RENA:
*mumbles* That...that...

SARIN:
Hmm?

RENA:
*smiling* Oh, nothing! I think it's a cute name.

SARIN:
Yeah, she said something corny like "You like flowers, and I like power". I laughed for about 2 minutes until I realized she was serious.

RENA:
Oh my, I didn't see how late it's getting.

SARIN:
What?

Rena grabbed Sarin by the wrist and began to drag her to the door.

RENA:
You need to leave.

SARIN:
Why?

RENA:
I just realized Ginger's coming over in like 5 minutes and I'm not ready.

SARIN:
He comes at this time of night?

RENA:
Honey, this bathroom doesn't pay for itself.

SARIN:
oh ... OHHHHHH!

RENA:
Yeah.

SARIN:
Alright! Well, see you tomorrow!

RENA:
Yep. Say hi to Yoko for me! Tell her I really love the name.

SARIN:
*laughing* Yeah, right.

RENA:
If you could, please. And while doing so could you direct her to my office?

SARIN:
You-you're serious.

RENA:
I have never been more serious in my life. Now, hurry! Ginger will be just around the corner!

SARIN:
Okay! Night!

RENA:
*smiles* Night! Don't forget! Tell-

SARIN:
I know! I know! I'll give her a call.

RENA:
Good.

Sarin, still wrapped in a towel, ran down the hallway to reach the communal women's change room. Rena's eyes narrowed slamming the door before slapping a lamp off a nearby desk before screaming as loud as she possibly could.

[fade]

To Be Continued...

[Yoko Satoshi]

Title: From One Crazy To Two
Credit: Trent Wheeler

After Trent Wheeler suffured his first lost at the hand of VorteX last week, he stayed around after the show ended, sulking around the back. After a week of thinking, his mind is back in the game. He made a rookie mistake last week, but tonight would be different. And that was a major understatement. He's going up against Lilith Dormieux, a follower of Draven Rook. No. She was more like a slave, doing whatever he wanted, and there was something about that that didn't sit right with Wheeler.

We see Trent, standing against a cold grey wall, in his trench coat. He has his arms crossed over his chest and is staring at the ground with a look of concern and determination on his face.

Trent Wheeler: Last week, my eyes were opened to what defeat on a large stage felt like. I didn't like it. I felt like... a rookie. Heh, must make Chris laugh. I guess he's right that I'm still green. Fine. I got the heart and skill to be big, and I'm winning tonight...

Wheeler shifts nervously and looks too the camera.

Trent Wheeler: But I have a problem with this match. It's not that I'm going up against a women. They can be skilled and strong, just like the men. I have a problem going against Lilith Dormieux. I've seen her, and Draven Rook, in the back around here. Sometime isn't right with them. She listens to whatever he says, doesn't ask any questions, like a good little slave. Rook, I don't know what you've done too her, and I don't even want to know, but I plan on breaking your hold on her. Your so-called Holy Church Of Forsaken Saints shall be destroyed. Despite all this, I still plan on going all out in the match. Lilith is still a wrestler, and as far as I'm concerned, just another pebble in my path.

Trent Wheeler stares at his close fists as the camera fades.

[Yoko Satoshi]

Lilith Dormieux vs. Trent Wheeler

The two wrestlers stare at each other, ready for the fight. Wheeler throws first, attacking Lilith with lots of strikes. He puts in a few throws but keeps it simple, not letting the psycho get on offense. Lilith dodges a Flash Kick and gets on the offense, slapping and kicking Wheeler into the corner. She takes down Trent via a thumb too the eye then a leg sweep. She then stalks him before hitting Trent with a Love Bite (Shining Wizard). Lilith covers get only gets a two. As Trent gets up, Lilith locks in a sleeper hold, not letting go of Wheeler. Trent dives down onto the mat and gets Liliths shoulder down, but just for two seconds. Trent forces Liliths shoulders down again, again getting two. Trents face is purple, so he changes tactics and elbows her in the ribs repeatedly. Lilith falls back, allowing Trent too get up, turn and hit Lilith with the Meet The Ground (Wheelborrow facebuster).

Wheeler covers but gets two. He gets back on offense, punching Lilith in the face, forcing her into the corner. Using his size advantage Wheeler dominates the match for a bit, punching and kicking Lilith all around the ring and even hitting her with the Stars On The Rocks (Running elbow too the head). However Lilith turns the tables with an out of nowhere Genitourture (Testicle claw). Trent falls too the mat screaming as Lilith shrugs too protest her innocence and then boots Trent in the head. She covers but gets thrown off at two. The two get up, evenly matched. Neither can get an advantage for long enough too win the match, but both are worn down from the fast paced action.

The last part of the match is as back and forth as ever, neither fighter able too pull ahead. Lilith hits the Fall from grace (Moonsault double stomp) but moments after Trent hits the Spike Grenade. Both fighters are laid out after the Spike Grenade and RAF starts the ten count. 1...2...3 both get too there knees 4...5...6 Lilith gets too one knee ...7... Trent gets too one knee ...8.. both fighter get up, but Lilith promptly falls too the floor. Wheeler kicks Lilith multiple times, the later curling up into the fetal position. Wheeler drops some elbows and then lifts Lilith. After letting off a howl, Trent finishes it with the Detox Driver, covering for the win!

Warfare Winner: Trent Wheeler!

[Yoko Satoshi]

“A single rose can be my garden…a single friend, my world.”
- Leo Buscaglia

When it comes to sink or swim in Alpha Championship Wrestling, few have sailed majestically to the promised land, while others have sunk to the very depths of insignificance.
All too often it is easy to become a very small fish in a large pond, especially when the ulterior motive is to devour all of the bigger fish that swim in that pond. Many a time has that small fish been consumed by the overwhelming might of the shark infested pond that is the ACW.
Some fish harbor desires to not only gorge on their piscinal rivals but also dry up the pond for good, ensuring no fish, large or small, ever swims there again.

She’s back in school again. Surrounded by this hatred. But this cycle of hate revolves in the opposite direction as it did then. Then, she hated them because they hated her. Now, THEY hate her, because SHE hates them. There is no turning back the cycle. Water can never flow beneath the bridge that she has built.
She can feel them as she walks – their eyes follow her every step. Her chin lowers into her chest as her eyes avoid hers. Her quivering lips clench together. She resists the overwhelming urge to weep as she marches sheepishly through the corridors. She must remain strong in her conviction. She attempts to raise her head, but under the heavy gaze of passers-by, some of whom stop in their tracks to gawp at her sheer brazeness. She shuffles silently, her attempt at innocence only emphasizing her guilt.
She senses the approach of one man and she flinches, believing him to be closer than he actually is. But he does not close-in, he merely leers at her with a hateful glare.

But the on-lookers, the witnesses to her shameless march through the historic corridors of the ACW arena, are not merely the nameless, forgettable faces of the staff roster. A number of ACW superstars themselves are stopped in their tracks, their train of thought brought screeching to a halt by the inauspicious presence of this wench.
A mask, crimson in color, conceals the expression of a motionless Red Panther, who moniters her as she passes. Dave Shadow, already perturbed by the loss of his International title, does not relish the prospect of also losing his job. He displays this by stopping as she passes, following her with a piercing unappreciative look.
Even the psychotically charged behaviour of ACW’s newest star, the erratic Run Away, is curbed by the moment as he stands steady, watching on with an insane gaze.

Finally, she reaches an open doorway leading to an adjacent corridor. It is a welcome reprieve for her as the empty hallway welcomes her, lifting all of the unease and trepidation from her step. She marches confidently onwards before reaching another door. She creaks the handle and peers inside before entering, closing the door sharply behind her. Backing against the door she releases a heavy sigh of relief and moistens her lips with a slither of her studded-tongue. Closing her eyes, she allows the silence of the room to engulf her. A comfortable smile eases onto her face, puffing out her chubby cheeks. She allows her eyelids to part slowly, allowing her to ingest the sanctuary she has just entered into.

Brightly illuminated walls of a warm cream coating surround a tastefully furnished room. A beautiful mirrored chest sits peacefully in the corner. A level, white mantelpiece rests above a cosy, unlit fireplace. Upon the mantelpiece, there are a number of photo-frames as well as a finely cut glass vase containing a single rose. A dark leather sofa sits invitingly in the middle of the room.

Pushing herself from the oak door she saunters towards the alluring seat with it’s plump white cushions. However, she only makes it halfway into the room when she is suddenly stopped in a cold terror. Her eyes widen and for a brief moment, her breath halts. Her heart begins to thump wildly behind her breast as her limbs freeze. She may not have occupied this room for very long – not long enough to adapt to it’s unique acoustics – but there was one thing she was certain of – there was somebody else in the room with her.

Their breath, although hushed, was deafening to her. A cold tingle worked its way up her spine and made her shudder out of her stillness. She began to inhale deeply, drawing in as much courage as she could muster. She moistened her lips again and in a sharp movement, swiveled around on the spot and confronted the mysterious stranger with a look of dread on her face.
Her face contorted into an alternative expression – she was notably surprised. But it was not fear that had etched it’s mark on her visage. It had more of the hallmarks of delight.

“Cyda!”

Her voiced squeaked and almost broke as the panic was quickly flushed from her mind. She still trembled as her body pulsed with adrenaline. She stretched her weighty arms to her side and beamed.

The stranger was a man, roughly the same age as Cordelia but his beard, which housed a scattering of gray hairs, gave him a slightly older appearance. His dry, twisted, blonde hair was tied back tightly into a ponytail which dangled between his shoulder blades. He looked to be in good shape beneath his crisp black shirt that contained a familiar logo emblazened on the chest. It was of a dragon holding a rose. He stepped forwards.

“How are you doing, Cordy?”

He threw his arms around her waist and tilted his head to kiss her just alongside her lips. She returned the gesture, delivering a friendly peck on his cheek and wrapping her arms around his neck. He was marginally taller than her.

“I don’t believe it. I haven’t seen you in ages. What are you doing here?”

She doesn’t release her hold – in fact, she clamps her arms tighter around his torso. He delicately rubs her lower back as his bulging arms make hers looks thin.

“I found out my gorgeous Cordelia was back on the scene and I had to drop by and check it out.”

She pulls her body away slightly, keeping her hands locked behind his neck. His hands slide onto her waist. Her body is comfortably warm in his hands.

“But…how did you get in?”

She scrunches her face in puzzlement, not that his method of infiltration mattered to her. She tries to hide her smile, but it pulls too hard.

“You know me…I have my ways and means.”

He pulls a cocky smile and tops it off by flashing her a wink. She bites down on her bottom lip. Despite their bond, she feels a twinge of shyness overcome her, as if they had just met for the first time. She gazes into his eyes – slightly bloodshot, as usual – and smiles, dreamily. He breaks her daze.

“So, how are you coping? Everything alright?”

His tone drops to a concern. He swoops his head and looks up into her eyes. Her smile retracts for a second as her glare withdraws from his. She shakes her head.

“I’m doing okay.”

The tone she adopted was unconvincingly delivered, which he immediately picked up on.

“The last time I saw you was at the funeral. You were quite a mess. Are you sure you’re ready for all this?”

She let her hands slide from his shoulders. Managing to pluck a tired smile, she leaned in and kissed him on the cheek.

“I’m fine, honestly. I’m really ready to carry on. Pick up where I left off.”

He relinquished his touch and smiled, laughing through his nose.

“But enough about that, we have got so much to catch up on. You have to tell me everything that you’ve been up to!”

She broke into an enthusiastic spring, grabbing his hand and leading him to the sofa. She sank into the soft cushions and leaning against the backrest with her shoulder. He followed, sitting frontways with his back resting against the soft support – too many punishing back drops and body slams can bring such a welcome to soft surfaces.

“Where do you want me to start?”

He let his head drop over the back of the sofa and turned to face her. The stretching of his neck felt quite liberating after such a long journey to get here.

“Have you been wrestling?”

She placed her head into her palm, which jutted out from the sofa like a supporting strut. Her elbow burrowed deep into the back of the sofa. Her lips were still dry and she tried to compensate for them by running her moist tongue between them.

“I’ve been back in the ring now and again. Easing back into it, really.”

She pouted and adopted a look of sympathy. A sensitive hand landed on his arm and caressed him, thoughtfully.

“Your back still playing you up?”

He creased his face, squinting his eyes. He hated talking about his weaknesses.

“It’s not too bad. It comes and goes – I just don’t like to push it.”

He began to examine the room and couldn’t help noticing one of the photographs mounted on the mantelpiece. A thousand questions rushed through his mind, but he was apprehensive about enquiring, knowing it might still be a sensitive subject.
She popped herself up and onto the edge of the sofa. She seemed to adapt to a playful tone.

“You know what you need? Something to ease the pain. I’ve got a lovely bottle of Rosé here. It might help us both take our minds off our problems.”

She hopped to her feet, excitable and fussy. She retrieved a bottle of pink wine from in front of the mirror and holds it up in display with a mishcievous grin on her face. His eyes drop and stresses sincerely.

“I’ll just have some water, babe.”

She is flushed with disappointment as she begins to open the bottle. The cap is tight, but she is not the weak and feeble young woman she used to be.

“I don’t have any water, I’m afraid. Sorry, sweetie.”

He shrugs as she turns her back to him to pour her drink. It glugs as it fills the glass. He stretches a blithe arm across the back of the sofa and watches her.

“That’s okay. I’ll get some from outside later.”

Slowly distributing the wine into the clear glass, she keeps her eyes trained on the drink as she feels him becoming relaxed which, in turn, eases her disposition too.

“So, how’s your lovelife.”

With her back turned, she doesn’t notice his face turn to a sour clench. He looks away and clings to trepidation.

“I…Traci and I…we’ve decided to give it another go.”

The abrupt thwack of the bottle base punching the dresser evokes a regretful grimace from his haggard face. As he looks up, he is greeted by the wrathful pout of Cordelia looming over him with her hands on her hips. Pursing her lips, she allows a smog of awkward silence to engulf the room. He grows increasingly worried about her potential reaction.

“You…what..?”

She pierces the trepidation in his gaze as she jerks her head in umbrage. He rockets to his feet and approaches her with open, almost apologetic arms. She lowers her head and eases her poise, taking in a sharp breath as he looks at her like a scolded child.

“Cyda. Honey. I know we haven’t seen each other in a long time, but…I still care about you – a lot. In fact, you’re probably the only man I ever loved and haven’t slept with.”

He attempts to lighten the situtation, directing a sheepish grin and a playful finger in her direction.

“Something I have yet to forgive you for, I’ll have you know.”

She remains persistant in her reproachable manner, skipping over his jaunt remark.

“I mean it, babe. I know how she is, how she hurt you before. Yet, here you are walking right back into her arms, only for her to hurt you all over again.”

She throws her arms in front of her chest, crossing them fractiously.

“You don’t know that. She deserves at least another chance. You forget all of the good times we shared. She wasn’t always the way that you remember her. Before I met you she was different. She was amazing –loving, caring…”

He shuffles towards her, attempting to land a friendly palm onto her shoulder but she shifts away from him. Uncoiling her arms, she spreads her fingers like a pianist, placing them just beneath her clavicle.

“Are you saying it was my fault? That the friendship that you and I had justified her to treat you like she did?”

He stands off and cranks his neck. He places his hands on his hips and deeply considers his next comment.

“No. I’m just saying that I still…I still love her. Surely you can understand that?”

She lurches towards him and grasps his hands, still planted firmly on his hips. She rubs them affectionately.

“I do. I just care too much for you to see you go through all that again. I’m not telling you how to live your life. I’m just asking you to be careful.”

He erupts, throwing his arms up into the air, ejecting her hands away from him. A stern enmity grips his expression as his face reddens.

“ME be careful? What about you? What about this whole saga you’ve been playing here? What exactly are you trying to prove here, Cordelia?”

His outburst surprises her, eliciting tears from her eyes. Her voice cracks as she whimpers. A single drop quickly slides down her cheek and collects in the corner of her mouth.

“I’m not trying to prove anything but the truth! I’m here because these bastards took from me what I cherished most in this life. When they took Jack’s life, they also took mine. I have nothing else, nothing at all to live for.”

She sobs, lowering her head and raising a trembling hand to her eyes. He quickly moves in and clasps her face in his rought hands, holding her head up and forcing her to gaze into his intense eyes.

[Yoko Satoshi]

“But you’ve got me! You’ve got Chris. You've got Kitty, as well.”

A sniffle precedes a simpering gasp as her teary eyes looked back at him. She licks her lips and tastes the salty texture of a teardrop. She desperately wishes for a tissue as her nose begins to run.

“I know that! But, I loved Jack, on a different level. He was my everything. And they took that away from me for their own selfish purposes. I can’t let them get away with that. I won’t let the truth and the justice go unnoticed. Jack deserves more than that. Surely if you were in a similar position, you would do the same?”

His head loosens and he shifts his gaze from her. She continues to watch him with a deep stare. He eventually reverts his glance towards her and wipes away a rolling tear with his thumb.

“I…I don’t know. All I know is that you are in a very dangerous environment here and I don’t want anything to happen to you.”

He lifts his arms around her shoulders and beckons her to embrace him. She places her cold hands on his chest as another tear escapes from her glossed eyes.

“I can take care of myself. I’m not the weak and fragile young girl I used to be. Since losing Jack, I’ve had to become stronger – out of necessity. He wasn’t just my lover - he was my hero and my influence. Without him, I could have become nothing. Please…please don’t take away what I have left. Please let me do this, let me take down these murderers. You and I both owe that to Jack, at least.”

She falls into his arms and rests her head against his warm, beating chest. He wraps his arms around her and squeezes affectionately.

“Will you stay with me for a while?”

Her head rests deeply into his breast. She counts his heartrate. He sinks his chin into her head and kisses her dark hair.

“Of course.”

End

[Yoko Satoshi]

I’ve been expecting you Mr. Jefferson...
Jack Jefferson / Dave Shadow


Jefferson doesn’t bother knocking on the door marked “Dave Shadow”. Instead he just turns the handle, happily finding it unlocked, and saunters straight in like he has a God given right to be there. Dave Shadow wears a wry smile on his face as he looks at Jefferson entering. Without so much as a word he simply nods and gestures towards a nearby table. On it sits two bottles of Corona, lime wedge and all. There is condensation covering the cold bottle surface and Jefferson can’t help but snatch one up and take a good long gulp, sighing as he wipes the excess residue from his lips. Still, Dave hasn’t said a word but he rises up from his chair and casually makes his way across to the table, plucking up the other bottle. He smiles at Jefferson, who looks slightly confused at this point.

Dave: Mister Jefferson. I've been expecting you!

Jefferson: What you trying to say? You knew I was coming?!

Dave: Oh come off it Jack. This isn't the first time we've done this. I mean, in recent times alone, I've beaten you for the International Championship and I pinned you to become the Emperor of the Ring. We've fought ten times, TEN TIMES, in my year here. We have our little routine, and I'm sure you know the drill by now...

Jefferson: Fuck off Dave, I’ve had it about up to here with your “clever” little mind games. You’re not getting in my head, not now not ever!

Dave: Oh come on now Jack. You're trying to tell me I'm not in your head right now? Not even a little, teeny weeny bit?

Jefferson: No, of course not! You really do think a lot of yourself don’t you?!

Dave: Not at all? Wow! I just find it fascinating that I managed to beat you all those times without even being inside your head. I must be better than you than I thought!

Shadow really knows how to push Jefferson’s buttons and he’s just hit the big red button labelled “Do Not Press”. Jefferson snarls as he leaps forward, pressing his face right into Shadow’s. Shadow, to his credit, manages to maintain his smug grin and he doesn’t even flinch at Jefferson’s sudden movement. This only serves to anger Jefferson further and he throws his bottle at the wall behind Shadow, the implied intent blatantly obvious, and lets out a roar of fury as he does so.

Jefferson: Listen here you sonuvabitch! You might have just beaten me at Emperor of the Ring but don’t fool yourself into thinking that gives you some kind of advantage. You see, I’ve managed to get even better since that defeat. I decided it was never going to happen again...and trust me it won’t be!

Dave: Yawn! Everytime we fight, you say this. "I've gotten better! I've gotten better!"

Jefferson: Shut the fuck up and listen – I haven’t finished! Tonight you’re going to meet the new Jack Jefferson. He’s not greatly different from the old one but the subtle differences are mind blowing. I’m going to decimate you in that ring and you’ll be powerless to stop it. After all, you’re not 100% focused are you? There’s that niggling little thought in the back of your mind isn’t there? Something’s missing. Something that you used to carry so arrogantly on that shoulder but weren’t quite able to cling onto. Right now you’re still reeling from the loss of your title so it is the perfect time for me to strike. You’ve always had trouble beating me when you’re at your tip-top, fighting-fit, 100% best. How do you think you’ll fare if you’ve even dropped your game by a measly 5%?

Let me answer that for you...you won’t. There is literally no chance that tonight you are going to beat me. You’ll push me hard, I have no doubt, but I can take everything you’ll throw at me and then some. You’ll slip up eventually and when you do you won’t know what hit you. You thought it was bad when Phenomenal took you out? You haven’t seen anything yet!

Dave: Jack, I get it. You're sick of losing. I would be too if I lost as much as you do. But let me just outline something to you. I just lost my first match in two months. I just lost my International title. And as each day goes by that I have to sit around and listen to people reminding me of those two facts, I also lose my mind. You think you're the only one with something to prove here tonight? I don’t care what nonsensical picture of your own greatness that you’ve painted in your mind because that’s all it is...a characateur generated by your mind. The facts and figures are painfully clear about the simple truth – I am better than you. Tonight I’ll prove that fact once more.

Jefferson: I’m going to enjoy proving you wrong!

With that Jefferson pulls his face out of Dave’s, who jokingly wafts his hand in front of his nose. Jefferson snarls as he sees this but decides not to say anything more. He’s made his point...later tonight he’ll get to make it again in the ring. As Dave Shadow watches Jefferson storm out of his locker room for the umpteenth time this year he slowly shakes his head. Tonight, once again, will not be ending well for Jefferson and, once again, he’s going to be humiliated by the hand of Dave Shadow...it’s almost a shame Shadow thinks to himself. Almost.


Fade to Black

[Yoko Satoshi]

Animal Farm
Jack Jefferson / Jonny Hughes


Jonny Hughes whistles casually to himself as he walks down one of ACW’s many corridors. His demeanour is casual, happy even but below the surface his mind is whirring. He’s been somewhat cast out of the limelight recently and is on the verge of being forgotten. For someone who has given so much loyal service over the years this is totally unacceptable for him. To make matters worse, Jack Jefferson and Dan White seem to have gone from strength-to-strength since The Empire disbanded.

His thoughts are disrupted by absentmindedly glancing through an open door. What he sees inside forces him to take a few steps back. Standing just inside the door and leaning on the frame Hughes stands and watches is disbelief, and slight horror, as Jack Jefferson lounges back in his chair and reads the book “Animal Farm”

Hughes: What the fuck are you doing?!

Shocked at the unexpected interruption Jefferson peers over the top of his book. Seeing Hughes he visibly relaxes slightly, his shoulders dropping and the book resting on his lap.

Jefferson: Er...reading.

Hughes: Why the fuck are you reading that?!

Jefferson: Huh? It’s Animal Farm...

Hughes: Exactly! It’s bestiality!!

Jefferson: No...it’s the classic Orw--

Hughes: PERVERT!

Jefferson: What? It’s not beati--

Hughes: SICKO!

Jefferson: Fuck off, it’s the nove--

Hughes: FREAK!

Jefferson: Will you fucking listen? It’s not what you think it is! It’s the Geor--

Hughes: SICK BASTARD!

The constant interruptions from Hughes have clearly gotten to Jefferson who has leapt out of his chair and gotten right in Hughes’ face, eyes blazing with fury. He clicks his neck to the right and points his finger in Hughes’ face before speaking through tightly clenched teeth.

Jefferson: Listen...you useless twat! I am not perusing bestiality you sick fuck, I’m reading the all time classic by George Orwell. Maybe you should try engaging your brain for once!

Hughes: Jesus, you need to learn to chill ou--wait, engage my brain for once? What exactly is that supposed to mean?

Jefferson: It’s supposed to mean that you’re an idiot! You’ve never done anything of merit because you don’t know what you’re even doing. You just drift along doing sweet fuck all and scratching your head at why everyone leaves you behind!

Hughes: That is not true!

Jefferson: What have you done since The Empire? You went missing for a while the popped up in the Senatorial Stable and proceeded to do diddly squat!

Hughes: And who was to blame for The Empire crumbling, huh? You! Once again you went AWOL and plans fell by the wayside...again!

Jefferson: Again?!

Hughes: Yes, again..or don’t you remember Omerta?! Face it, you’re the reason The Empire failed and the reason I “went missing”!

Jefferson: We’re responsible for our own fate so don’t give me the whole “it’s your fault” routine. Wrong! It’s your fault. The Empire could’ve been great but as the saying goes “you’re only as strong as your weakest link”. You were our weak link Jonny! We teamed together a number of times and lost. Was it me getting pinned or submitted? No. It was you! The simple fact of the matter is I could see that you would cause The Empire to, ultimately, fail. I just got myself ahead of the curve, cut my ties and decided I was better off alone. Without being held back.

My whole career I’ve been held back. First by Red...then by you. So I ended Omerta and re-invented myself on Fallout without the crappy name. When I returned to ACW you were a somebody, you seemed to have turned things around and actually begun to matter. So, I gave you a second shot...The Empire was born. At first I really believed that we could pull it off until I started to see what was in front of me the whole time. We would have pulled it off without the weak link. Without you!

Hughes: The only weak link was you! Mr. Out-For-Himself. You were never truly dedicated to the cause; you were just hoping we’d help you on the road to success!

Jefferson: You...help me? Seriously? I don’t need any help from anybody, especially not you or Dan. I was, and still am, better than both of you. I’m going to prove that when I take Dan’s World Title!

Hughes: Good luck with that Jack. How do you expect to win the World Title when you’re Dave Shadow’s bitch?! I mean really...how many times has he bested you in the ring? NINE?! TEN?!

Jefferson: It’s not Nine or Ten.

Hughes: But it’s close right? I mean, that’s got to get to you Jack. Knowing that there’s someone out there who has your number, someone who can seemingly beat you with ease. You see, you’re good Jack, I’ll give you that. But until you can learn to beat people like Dave Shadow, until you stop being his bitch, you’re just not good enough to be World Champion. And I think deep down, you know that Jack and I think it gets to you.

A broad smile has spread across the face of Jonny Hughes as he looks into the eyes of his former stablemate. He knows that he’s touched a nerve, hell it was his intention to do so, and he knows that Jack is filled with hateful resentment for him and that excites Hughes. Jonny loves the fact that he can get under the skin of people, he’s done it for his whole career and he enjoys it immensely. Jonny knows that one more comment, one more dig, could send Jack over the edge given his tempestuous nature so he draws an end to proceedings by taking a look at his wristwatch.

Hughes: Would you look at the time? Sorry old boy, but I have to dash. I have far more pressing and, quite frankly, interesting things to be doing with my time.

Jonny heads off in the opposite direction, leaving Jack Jefferson routed to the spot, clutching his copy of Orwell’s Animal Farm in a rather tightly clenched fist. The camera follows Hughes, keeping a close lock on his face which is wearing a rather satisfied grin as he walks away from his little confrontation with his former ally. He reaches the end of the corridor and stops to turn back to Jefferson.

Hughes: Good luck for tonight Jack. How does the saying go? Tenth time’s a charm?

Hughes continues around the corner and out of sight just as Jefferson flips his lid. He angrily tosses his book at a nearby wall before kicking over the chair he was sitting on. He is about to tip over a nearby table when he stops in his tracks, he swiftly turns back to his book and looks down at something on the floor next to it. The camera slowly zooms in on the object to reveal his bookmark, lying casually on the cold concrete floor next to his closed book. Not only has Jefferson lost his rag, but he’s also lost his page, something which draws further ire.

Jefferson: FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU---

The production crew make the wise decision to cut this segment to an abrupt end and we fade to our next scene.

Fade

[Yoko Satoshi]

Book the Match!
By Dave Shadow

As we cut backstage once more, we find ourselves in the office of Chairman Gingerdude, who is busy, as per usual, given his role on the show. He holds a mobile phone up to his ear, chattering away at top speed and barking off orders to whoever is on the other end of the line. He looks to be getting quite frustrated, his face growing redder and redder as the conversation progresses.

The camera slowly pans back to reveal another familiar face; the crowd reaction is still quite mixed, but Dave Shadow has seemingly been earning more and more fans as the weeks have progressed. He’s not fully won them over yet though, as those with good memories still continue to boo him, having not forgiven his past sins. Furthermore, this week, he is lacking something which has nearly been a part of his identity for half a year. His shoulders are laid bare, as the International Championship now resides with another.

Gingerdude turns and realizes Dave is there, jumping back slightly in fright as he does. He looks like he’s had a mini-heart attack; Dave can’t help but let a small smile spread across his face.

Dave: We need to...

Gingerdude puts up a hand to stop him talking, and scowls at him before continuing on with the phone conversation. Dave folds his arms, but he too grows more and more scowly as time passes, and as it becomes obvious Gingerdude has no intentions of hanging up.

Dave grabs Gingerdude’s phone and snatches it out of his grip. The chairman looks in horror, as Dave presses a button, hanging up on whoever he was talking to.

Gingerdude: How dare...

Dave: Oh, do shut up. I wanted to talk to you about what happened last week.

Gingerdude: Figured as much. Listen, I know you’re not happy with how things went down…

Dave: Not happy? Jaysus, Gingerdude. When did you become the lord of the understatement? Did you see what Chris had to do to keep me down? Interference, weapons, cheating. Not only did Chris beat me, not only did Chris end a 8 match unbeaten streak….that son of a bitch robbed my International Championship. I’m not usually one to start complaining about a loss...

Gingerdude: Dave. The decision stands, regardless of how annoyed you get. That’s worked to your advantage in the past, including in matches against Phenomenal. There’s no way I can go back in time and stop it....

Dave: I know. I know.

Gingerdude: Then what do you want?

Dave: You know my contract. You personally oversaw my signing of it. I get a rematch when I lose a title. It’s guaranteed.

Gingerdude: You do. You also know I get the final decision on when to have that match.

Dave: Yeah. So I’m asking you to book it.

Gingerdude: Fine. You’ve got your rematch. In a few weeks, we have a pay per view.

Dave: What the....no way. Sorry Ginger, but I refuse to have to wait for my return shot at Chris. I want you to cancel my match with Jefferson tonight, and to book the rematch. Dave Shadow vs. Chris Phenomenal for the International Championship.

Out in the arena, the crowd cheer loudly. Still hungry for more violence, they are obviously very much in favor of having the rematch tonight. Unfortunately, their desires are not having any effect on Gingerdude’s decision as he starts shaking his head.

Gingerdude: No. I granted your wish of the title match last week. We threw away such a big match on free television, and in the process, we didn’t make a dime.

Dave: Typical Gingerdude. Always about the money with you, isn’t it?

Gingerdude: Yeah, Dave, it is. That’s my job. Not only my job but my duty to make sure this company is successful. And sometimes that means the crowd are happy, sometimes that means the wrestlers are happy. But sometimes, that means making decisions which neither they nor you agree with or like. You used to understand that Dave. You taught me that. So no. You don’t get the title match tonight. You get it at Samhin.

Dave puts his hands on his hips and sighs loudly.

Dave: Fine. You want me to wait a week and a bit, fine. I do warn you though, that just means that the tension is going to be building between me and him until we do get to fight. And THAT is just going to mean when we do get back in the ring together, the resulting match is going to be all the more chaotic and destructive.

Gingerdude: Dave, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I hope you rip each other to shreds. I hope you two go out there and do things that I could never dream of. I hope you damn well kill each other, and I don’t mean that as 100% metaphorically. As far as I’m concerned, if I can pop a buyrate with you two and write you off as collateral, then it would be a good day for me.

Dave laughs and puts his hand on Gingerdude’s shoulder.

Dave: Ha. Gingerdude. I hate to break it to you, but I’m going to be around for a VERY long time.

Gingerdude shrugs, throwing Dave’s arm off of him. Dave laughs again.

Gingerdude: You know, you’ve always been an arrogant bastard. Don’t you have a match to be getting ready for?

Dave nods his head and walks past his boss, as Gingerdude watches him go. If looks could kill, Dave would be laid out on the floor right now. Gingerdude dials a number on his phone again, and starts talking on it again, still visibly angry, as we…

[FADE]