Monday Night Warfare 4th April 2005

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 4: Atomic Kitsune vs. Craig Lewis (Credit: Latino)

The crowd is still in hyper mode after RDK’s stirring address, and they seem rather keen to see just what Craig has managed to get himself into. Philip has a grin on his face as he enters the ring.

Phillip: This next match is scheduled for one fall and it is declared to have no time limit. Coming to the ring first from London, UK…..Alicia “Atomic” Kitsune!

The fans instantly stand up as "I'm a Bomb" by Natasha Bedingfield starts playing. Alicia comes out slapping hands with her fans as she walks down to the ring. She looks around to see many signs such as “AK = Greatness” and “AK & Latino when’s the date?” She smiles as she steps up and inside the ring. She plays off to the crowd as her opponent for the night is announced.

Phillip: And her opponent part of the Corporate Alliance….The Apprentice….Craig Lewis!

The crowd is deafening as they not only boo but also constantly yell out verbal threats that could get ACW management into serious hot water for airing them. He pays then no attention as he comes out with the biggest smile on his face. He yells out to the fans boasting about how he is the greatest. He slides inside the ring looking down at Atomic Kitsune, who just shakes her head a little in wonder at Craig’s monumental ego.

The Bell Rings.

As the Bell rings Atomic walks into the center of the ring ready to begin her match. Craig walks forward as well, clearly very confident, and perhaps overconfident, in his abilities. Alicia tries to lock on a grapple but Craig jumps back and starts pointing to his head in an obvious taunt towards his female opponent. He starts moving around the ring almost like a boxer, staying quick on his feet. He starts jabbing at Atomic with rapid punches, yet none of them connect; Atomic watches him with an expression of total confusion as Craig continues his “threatening” dance. The fans start chanting “Kick his Ass! Kick his Ass! Kick his Ass!” and she smiles at the thought as Craig keeps moving around in circles jabbing every now and then at Atomic, who by now is clearly wondering if it’s legal for her to take on an evidently mentally retarded opponent. She finally puts her arm to stop him; Craig has a surprised look on his face.

AK: So, were you planning on doing any wrestling tonight? COME ON!

The fans roar in approval and the chanting starts up again. Lewis looks around and then with a shrug leans back and strikes a clean punch across the face of Atomic, instantly silencing the fans. Craig smirks, but Atomic doesn’t fall or even step backward, and his expression seems to freeze. Then, Atomic turns her face towards Craig looking at him almost smiling. The cameras apply full zoom to catch her soft reply….

AK: Is that it?

Alicia finally decides enough time is wasted, and her movements are amazingly fast as she kicks Craig in the stomach and grabs onto his head expertly performing a DDT, sending the crowd off again and generating an even louder “KICK HIS ASS!” chant. She grabs him by the hair, determined to take out some of the anger that has been building up inside recently, and throws Craig into the corner. She runs and dropkicks Lewis full in the face knocking down onto the mat. The fans now are popping louder and louder as Atomic walks around the ring. Lewis stands himself back up and as Alicia notices this she runs towards him and locks on the flying Head Scissors sending Craig right across the ring. He looks around practically scared for his life as he finally realizes he is in way over his head, a beautiful Polaroid moment which will doubtless be all over the internet tomorrow with some appropriate Photoshopped comments. Atomic walks towards Lewis and stands him back up. She wraps her arm around his head and then runs towards one of the turnbuckles dragging Lewis along with her. She runs up the turnbuckle and pushes backward nailing Lewis with the Fox Flip. As Lewis rolls on his back in anguish the fans are now chanting “AK! AK! AK!” She climbs the turnbuckle generating even more of a pop from the crowd. Looking around her, Atomic measures her distance. She jumps off with the Ground Zero nailing it perfectly onto Lewis. Kitsune hooks the leg for the cover One…Two…..Three!

Phillip: Here is your winner……Atomic Kitsune!

Atomic gets up and brushes herself down casually, as if she’s just finished a mildly exerting training session. Craig is slowly getting up and trying to re – orientate himself; as Atomic is heading for the ropes, Craig grabs the startled referee and shouts that the count was too fast. The referee stands his ground though, and Craig backs off as Atomic turns around and heads back in his direction. He slides out of the ring, but as he’s about to hightail it up the ramp there’s a surge of sound from the crowd, and Craig sees someone emerge from the back.

Craig’s expression becomes smug again, and he folds his arms and waits for the new arrival to reach him. Atomic stays in the ring, glancing around her for any sneak attack, and Craig laughs nastily as he sees her defensive stance.

Craig: Oh, you’re in for it now. All right you, get in there and take her apart!

The crowd boos furiously, and Atomic stares at the man on the outside, who stares back. Craig doesn’t even see the Shades of Michaels coming; BK’s kick is so absurdly fast that even the cameras have trouble catching it. There’s a huge pop as Craig hits the deck, and BK stares down at him dismissively.

BK: THAT’s for being a whiny little bitch. Now don’t you EVER disrespect me or try to order me about again, Lewis.

The fans are still cheering as the EMTs jog down to collect the floored apprentice. Atomic has relaxed a little, but she moves to the edge of the ring and catches BK’s eye. They communicate wordlessly, and BK indicates that he’s not come out to fight with her by way of a small nod, which Atomic returns. BK makes his way to the back, satisfied at having done some damage to the apprentice, to prepare for his match later on, and Atomic takes just a moment more to acknowledge the fans before heading out herself. The camera moves in closer on Craig on the stretcher, and picks up the last few words of “Whiplash” and “Suing for what little they’ve got” as tears are shown running down his face. Atomic pays him no mind as she leaves the arena with a smile on her face.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: The Predators get serious (Credit: Predator)

The titantron flickers and we see Predator standing by Wolf, looking into the air very cocky like. The camera widens its view a bit, and we also see Charlotte. She has a mic in hand and is ready to interview Predator.

Predator: So you like...wanted an interview with me or something?

Charlotte: But of course Predator! For tonight you have a chance to rebound from your recent defeat from The Macho Man RDK. What are your thoughts on your opponent tonight?

Predator: What does it matter? I mean this guy has barely done anything since being here. I’ve come into contact with him twice and on both occasions it was not one on one. This guy hides behind his associates to make him look good. I might have an associate, but I certainly don’t HIDE behind him, now do I?

Crowd quickly erupts into a "bull shit bull shit" chant...

Charlotte: Well it appears the ACW crowd does not quite agree with you on that Predator, how do you respond?

Predator: Respond? Who said they deserved a response? Huh? What’s that bitch? Siding with the people now are ya? I thought we were conducting an interview, not a bullying session. If your going to talk to me like that, I'll have my associate Wolf here make you wish you never stepped foot in the ACW!

Charlotte: ...Um, sorry, I-

Predator: Give me that!

Predator takes away Charlotte's mic.

Predator: Look ACW, I’m going to start showing you all that I can get the job done on my own. In fact, I am going to be training, yes, that’s right, training. Every day, to get stronger, faster, the whole works. And each night I have a match, I will go out there, and rough up the competition. Wolf here, also has an announcement...

Predator hands Wolf the mic...

Wolf: *cough* As a very big man myself, I am dutied to show how powerful I really am, therefore, I am making an open challenge for the next Fallout to ANY big man courageous enough to want to climb in the ring with ME!

Wolf hands back the mic to Predator.

Predator: Watch out ACW, because in the upcoming weeks, asses will be whupped!

Predator throws the mic down at Charlotte and walks away with Wolf accompanying him. Charlotte is left speechless...

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Questions (Credit: Hunter)

The camera zooms into the Senatorial Office, where Anthony Kalb, Kevin Fitzharris, Will Anger, and Fallen Souls sit in random areas around the room. The Senator sits behind his desk with his legs crossed.

FSX: So, I said-

He doesn't get to repeat what he said before, as Hunter bursts into the room, holding the note previously seen.

Hunter: Which one of you put this in my locker?

Senator: What are you talking about?

Hunter: You know damn well what I'm talking about! Which one of you put this here??

The men remain silent.

Hunter: God dammit! Stop lying and tell me!

Will: I've never seen that before.

Kalb: Neither have I.

Kevin and FSX just shake their heads.

Senator: Hunter, maybe you should calm-

Hunter: I AM CALM!!!

Kevin: No, man, he's serious. You've been really...weird lately.

Will: If it's the title-

Hunter: It's not that damn title!

FSX: Then what?

Hunter: DID ANY OF YOU PUT THIS NOTE IN MY LOCKER??

Kalb: NO! What does it matter anyway?

Hunter just walks out the door and slams it shut. The other look a little worried, but then return to their conversation.

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: An extended absence (Credit: Yoko)

The scene opens in Ginger's office. He's examining some paperwork he has just received, while Mercer Stanton watches over his shoulder.

Mercer: I've noticed you keep sending these back to Angelo Giovanni, saying he can't come back yet. Has he not been cleared by his doctor?

Ginger: Oh, he has.

Mercer: Why do you deny him his return, then?

Ginger: I gave him a chance at Ragnarok to prove himself, and he failed. I can't fire him for getting injured, but I'll be damned if I can't prolong his return as long as possible.

Mercer: I'll bet he's getting pretty angry at you.

Ginger: Doesn't matter if he's angry, I won't have to deal with it. When he does manage to come back, he'll be so grateful that I've let him back that he'll be my little errand boy again.

Mercer: That's pretty clever. How long do you plan to keep him out?

Ginger: I don't know, do you think the remainder of his contract is too long?

Stanton laughs.

Mercer: Not at all, go for it.

They both laugh as the camera fades out.

End Segment.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 5: Macho Man RDK vs. Predator (Credit: BK)

The next match is installment 5,328 in one of ACW’s longest running feuds; the fans seem keen to see the match, even if they’re fairly certain of the outcome.

Phillip: This match is scheduled for one fall, coming to the ring from Winnipeg, Canada weighing in at 220 pounds, The Predator.

"Stay Together for the Kids" hits and the crowd reacts with some hefty boos for the Winnipeg native, Predator walks down to the ring with a purpose which is to beat RDK, a fellow Canadian. Predator slides into the ring and he walks around in the ring pacing back and forth waiting for his opponent to come down to the ring.

Phillip: And his opponent, coming from Yellowknife, Canada, weighing in at 245 pounds, The Macho Man R-D-K !!!

"Macho Man" hits and the crowd goes nuts for one of the top faces of ACW today, RDK walks down to the ring with his signature sunglasses on slapping hands with the people who are worthy enough to touch his hands. RDK slides into the ring and he climbs up to the middle rope and throws his sunglasses into the crowd before saluting them. As RDK is stepping down from the middle ropes he is attacked by Predator who wants to get an early advantage in the match.

The bell ring and Predator continues his vicious assault on RDK with clubbing forearms to the back of RDK and then he follows up by stomping a mudhole into RDK leaving him exhausted in the corner. Predator picks up RDK and whips him hard into the opposite corner, Predator then begins to charge toward RDK but RDK bursts out the corner with a clothesline that almost knocks Predator's head off his shoulders. RDK gets up and he begins stomping away at Predator and Predator rolls out the ring. RDK calls him back in the ring for more and just then Predator walks up by the apron and pulls RDK's legs from under him and then he pulls him out the ring. Predator the follows up with a kick to the gut and then a Swinging Neckbreaker onto the thin-padded mat on the outside. RDK is out and Predator quickly rolls back into the ring to break the count and then rolls out. Predator picks up RDK and smashes his head into the ring barricade as the fans go wild touching both Predator and RDK. Predator takes his eye of RDK, trash talking to a fan, which proves to be a big mistake. RDK then grabs Predator and throws him into the ring barricade and then unloads on him with some hard punches to the jaw. RDK then carries Predator to the steel steps and smashes his head into the steel steps sending Predator to the ground. RDK picks up Predator and throws him into the ring and RDK follows him back into the ring also. Predator gets to his knees and he starts to beg for RDK to end his assault, RDK looks toward the crowd for their input on this situation and they want RDK to knock Predator's lights out but Predator follows up with a poke to the eye.

RDK is blinded for the moment and Predator takes advantage as he bounces off the ropes and takes RDK down with a Spinning Wheel Kick. RDK is out on the mat and Predator covers RDK but RDK kicks out right after two. Predator picks up RDK and then hits him with an impact - filled Scoop Slam on the canvas below. Predator then begins mocking RDK and all his taunts and then bounces off the ropes and hits RDK with an elbow drop to the heart. RDK holds his chest in pain and Predator gets up again and hits him with another and then capitalizes with a cover but RDK kicks out. RDK begins to get up to his feet and Predator bounces off the ropes but RDK hits Predator with a Superkick knocking him over the top rope but Predator holds on and lands on the apron. Predator begins to get up and RDK attempts to attack him but Predator smashes the neck of RDK on the top rope. RDK holds his neck in pain and Predator quickly runs up to the top rope and waits for RDK to turn around. As RDK turns around Predator goes for a Missile Dropkick and hits his mark. RDK is out in the middle of the ring and Predator rolls over to RDK and covers him but RDK kicks out again. Predator looks at the referee and the referee signals to him two and Predator begins to get frustrated. Predator picks up RDK and attempts a Vertical Suplex but RDK floats over the shoulder of RDK and hits him with a Facebuster. Predator is laid out in the center of the ring and RDK goes for the Lionsault but Predator moves out the way and RDK lands on his feet.

RDK holds his knee as he seems to have landed on his left leg hard and as he turns toward Predator, Predator takes him down with the Predator Crossface. RDK flails so he isn't locked in the move but Predator locks in the move and RDK is experiencing a lot of pain. RDK begins to slowly crawl to the ropes but it is too far away. Finally RDK gets his leg on the bottom rope and the Predator breaks the hold. Predator picks up RDK but RDK quickly hits The Rockbottom on Predator out of desperation to get some time to recover. Both RDK and Predator lay in the center of the ring, at the count of 6 both superstars begin to rise to their feet and RDK hits Predator with a punch to the face and Predator reels. RDK hits Predator with another punch and Predator bounces on the ropes. As Predator comes off the ropes RDK goes for the Macho Slam but Predator counters that into another Crossface and he locks it on. RDK is trapped and it appears that the only thing to do now is tap but RDK gets a plan. He places his lower body around the back of Predator and locks both of his legs around Predator's leg. RDK then rolls back and Predator seems to be locked in a Banana Split Pin. The referee counts one, two, three.

Bell Rings.

Phillip: And the winner of this match, The Macho Man, R-D-K !!!!

Macho Man hits and the crowd begins to cheer for RDK as he rolls out the ring and escapes with a win over Predator. Predator, back in the ring, cannot believe that he lost to RDK like that after he believed he had the match in the bag. Back up the ramp RDK raises his arms in triumph over Predator.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: A Dog’s Life (Credit: Vinnie Dulario)

The scene cuts away to a superstar's locker room. Not much can be seen. The room is sparsely decorated. On the widescreen plasma television, the ACW arena can be seen. The shot pans around, noting the plush leather sofa and the fake plastic plant in the corner. The bathroom light is on, and steam is pouring from underneath the door. The resident superstar is taking a hot shower.

The shot pans back to the doorway, which has opened slightly. Nobody is there. The shot pans downward, and the audience in the arena gives a collective sigh as a cute puppy nudges the door open with his nose and steps inside the locker room. A laugh emanates from the crowd as the puppy almost gets caught in the self-closing door, but then works his way out.

The puppy makes his way over to the locker space. An expensive pinstripe Armani suit is hanging from the rack, and the puppy starts to chew on the bag. He grunts and paws, and finally works the bag open. He stops and cocks his head to the side momentarily, and the crowd gives another long sigh due to the overload of cuteness. The puppy suddenly growls and lunges for the exposed fabric, ripping and tearing as he plays.

Man: WHAT THE HELL??

The crowd utters a chorus of boos as Vinnie Dulario steps into the frame, wearing only a towel. His hair is soaking wet. He grabs the puppy roughly with one arm and throws him onto the sofa. The camera pans to the puppy, who is laying sprawled and whimpers a little. Vinnie steps back into the frame, now wearing a pair of sweatpants.

Dulario: What the hell? Oh, man. If I wasn't in enough trouble with Mickey for losing to Yoko Satoshi and Jade! Now you tore up HIS suit! He loaned that me! He wanted me to make an impression with these people! THESE IDIOTS! THESE HYPOCRITES!

Vinnie continues to spaz as the puppy watches intently at his reaction. Vinnie puts both hands in his hair as he takes ragged breaths. The audience continues to boo him. Finally, Vinnie reaches out of the frame for something.

Dulario: Wait a minute. Wait just one goddamned minute. I recognize you. Oh, yeah. You're Jade's mutt, aren't you? Poochie. You're that yapping little furball she carries around in her purse. You flea-ridden animal! Who knows what diseases you two gave each other? You know what you do with diseased animals?

The audience gasps as Vinnie pulls his 9mm Beretta into the frame. He holds it up for a moment, checking the components. He slams a loaded magazine into the grip, and pulls back on the slide to chamber a round.

Dulario: You put them down.

Poochie cocks his head to the side and gives a loud bark.

Dulario: Oh, shut up. What have you got to complain about? You're a dog. You're a spoiled little mutt. You have someone out there who cares for you greatly, deeply, takes care of your every need. Hell, you have it better than I do.

Poochie continues watching as Vinnie sits next to him, keeping the gun on his lap.

Dulario: I just got done losing, Poochie. To two girls. Do you know why that's not good? Because I'm being forced into this shithole of a corporation. I get to make a fool of myself because I don't know what I'm doing. It's like taking you, an ugly little mutt, and trying to turn you into Best In Show. Ain't going to happen overnight, if at all. Get my drift?

Vinnie taps the barrel of the pistol slightly against his chin.

Dulario: There's a maniac out there, worse than my old boss, who has my sister. He's going to do terrible things to her if I don't make him a profit here. I'm the lowest of the low right now, Poochie. I'm helping them launder money. Blood money. I used to be the guy who went out there and did the jobs, the big jobs. I'm a cold blooded killer, who could take out anybody given enough preparation time. But look at this. I gotta play by the rules in the ring. There ain't no rules in life, why should there be any in the ring?

Vinnie sighs and puts his head in his hands.

Dulario: I used to be the big man, the man who could get things done. Now I'm being played, in and out of the ring. Do you know what that's doing to me? Poochie, I've never been a saint, but I've always been human. I bleed, I hurt, but I thrive, also. Right now, I'm dying. I'm losing my humanity, Poochie.

Vinnie stands and slowly walks in front of the dog. Poochie whimpers as Vinnie brings the gun up and draws a bead between the dog's eyes.

Dulario: You know, I've got to say this. I wish you were the one about to shoot me. Then you could get on with your pompous, lavish lifestyle, and my pain could end.

The camera zooms in on Vinnie's trigger finger, which is slowly applying pressure. The audience is hushed, anxiously awaiting to see what will happen.

The whole arena gasps as a knock comes at Vinnie's door. Vinnie looks away from the dog to an envelope that has just been slid under his door. He looks back at the dog, then back at the envelope. Vinnie curses under his breath, then heads over to retrieve the envelope. He opens it, and quickly reads the note inside.

Vinnie walks over to his locker space, and tosses on a shirt and some sneakers. He heads back to the door and opens it. As soon as he does, Poochie quickly runs out of the room and down the hall, out of sight.

Dulario: You are the damned luckiest mutt I've ever seen...

Vinnie heads down the hall, in the opposite direction. His door closes, and the shot fades out on the envelope, with has the monogram "M.S."

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 6: Corporate Gauntlet - Bladeseika vs Bruce / Tyrone / ??

The Corporate Gauntlet may be one man shorter than the chairman had intended, but the fans are smart enough to know that this is no great loss to Ginger’s team. Speculation over the mystery participant has been rife since Thursday, and the fans are keen to see which, if any, of their hunches are correct.

Philip: This is a Corporate Gauntlet match – Participants are eliminated by pinfall or submission until either the challenger is defeated, or the gauntlet has run its course. Introducing first, from Upstate New York……..Bladeseika!

”Team 2000 Crash” hits, and the fans leap up out of their seats as blazing white spotlights herald the arrival of Bladeseika, resplendent in his ninja armour. He walks to the ring, touching hands gracefully with several of the crowd, before entering the ring and shaking hands with Philip, obviously pleased to be back and ready to take on whatever Ginger has set in his path.

On cue, the Chairman’s theme starts to play, and Bruce, the first of the gauntlet team, walks out in his plain black wrestling gear.

Philip: And the first of the Corporate Alliance gauntlet team…….from parts unknown, Bruce!

The crowd gives Bruce some generous heel heat, which makes him smile as he walks to the ring. Bruce slides into the ring and faces Blade; he looks to see if Blade has brought any weapons, but none are evident. The referee checks both participants to confirm this, and then waves to the timekeeper on the outside.

Bell Rings.

Bruce doesn’t share the overconfidence which has led to Craig’s indisposition for this match; he approaches Blade without fear, but with considerable caution. Blade doesn’t seem too bothered about this and is quite content to wait for Bruce to come to him; when they do get within touching distance, Bruce tries a sudden lunge forward but Blade counters it into an armdrag, and hence to an armbar. Bruce grimaces, but shows that he’s been working on his skills by twisting himself free and landing a punch on to Blade; the ninja seems to have been taken by surprise and Bruce starts to build some momentum, hitting Blade with powerful left – right – left blows. Blade has to take a few steps backward, and the crowd cries out as Bruce finally floors Blade with an uppercut. Bruce smirks, obviously pleased with himself – but Blade kips up, waits for Bruce to turn around, and then hits him with a spinning kick that almost sends the hired muscle out through the ropes. The fans cheer as Blade turns on the style, lifting Bruce up and delivering a crushing spinebuster; Bruce howls and clutches his back, trying to stay away from Blade. There’s nowhere to hide, however, and Blade uses his superior speed to get behind his foe and execute a textbook Dragon suplex. Bruce barely moves as Blade approaches him, and Blade takes a moment to savour the crowd’s response before making a pin. The referee counts, 1,2 – but somehow Bruce gets an arm in the air, and Blade raises an eyebrow with mild surprise. Deciding that Bruce has at least earned the “honour” of a proper finishing move, Blade sets up and demonstrates his Fatal Eclipse (Diamond Dust) with lots of height on the spring from the ropes. This time Bruce is out of his depth, and the 3 count is given with no interruptions.

Philip: Bruce has been eliminated! Next for the Corporate team…….Tyrone!

Blade has to use his legendary reflexes to the full as Tyrone comes rushing down to the ring, and slides in without waiting for the referee or anyone else to be ready. Blade whirls around and immediately the second round is on; the pair track rapidly back and forth across the ring, with Tyrone showing impressive speed for such a chunky individual. Tyrone throws punches much as Bruce did, but he too has been trying to widen his capabilities, and slips behind Blade before using a backslide to try and take him by surprise. The limber Blade, however, gets out of this without major difficulty and even manages to keep Tyrone hooked up so that he can reverse the move; gravity comes to Tyrone’s aid and he is able to tip himself out before the count reaches 2. Tyrone’s initial speed burst is now wearing down, and Blade is able to avoid most of the punches his foe throws; taking the bull by the horns (and Tyrone by the head), Blade runs Tyrone into the corner and bounces his head off of the turnbuckle. Tyrone staggers, and Blade gives the crowd a nostalgia moment by using the same corner post to launch into the Thor’s hammer. He connects with Tyrone’s shoulder and knocks his foe down, but Tyrone has enough sense to move before Blade can get close for a pin. Tyrone rolls up, and runs forward to shoulder – tackle Blade to the mat; he leg drops and then tries to use his weight to forcibly hold Blade down. Blade’s not entirely keen on the idea and throws Tyrone off with a soft laugh. Tyrone, riled by Blade’s amusement, tries to charge him down again, but this time his lack of caution bites as Blade uses all the power in his legs to jump up and arc over Tyrone, catching on to him for a gorgeous Sunset Flip. Tyrone’s not at all prepared, and the referee has counted to 3 before he realizes just what’s happened.

Philip: Tyrone has been eliminated! Which means that the third and final opponent for Bladeseika to face is-

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Before Philip can complete his announcement the whole arena goes black. The fans get noisy as they always do under these situations, but noise becomes a storm of sound as suddenly the titantron and sound system are assaulted by a barrage of static…..

“Puritania” blasts into the arena, and the explosion is mirrored by the response from the crowd. Blade takes up a true fighting stance, well aware of what’s about to him him, or rather who, and the noise just gets even louder as the familiar silhouette appears at the entrance and starts to advance toward the ring.

Philip: The final opponent in the gauntlet – from Southeastern Birmingham, Alabama, Ridley!

Ridley reaches the area directly in front of the ring and raises the lights. The fans can now see that he’s left off his usual cape and is ready for action; he and Blade stare piercingly at one another, and then slowly Ridley walks around and pulls something out from under the ring. The fans recognize it at once as a steel chair; the referee shouts out a warning, but Ridley ignores it and slides into the ring, bringing the chair with him. The crowd continues to shout and yell as Ridley advances on Blade, who refuses to back down; Blade swings out a kick in defence but Ridley easily avoids it and then retaliates with a huge Yakuza Kick which sends Blade sprawling. With the fans still screaming, Ridley looms large, takes aim, and swings the chair down directly at Blade’s head –<br>
Many of the fans cover their eyes, but in doing so they miss one of the great ACW swerves; Ridley decelerates the swing with expert timing so that the “blow” is no more than the lightest of taps. Blade’s pause is less than a second before he promptly sells the move unashamedly, with what can only be accurately be described as the “Magikarp Splash” response. The referee is very confused, but he has to follow the rules; Ridley has used an illegal object, and the crowd seems equally surprised as the referee signals for the bell and calls Philip over.

Philip listens, and then relays the official result to the crowd.

Philip: Ladies and Gentlemen, the referee has declared that as a result of a disqualification, the winner of this match is Bladeseika!

The noise is huge as Blade “recovers” to his feet, with a large contingent of fans already adopting the phrase “Chairshot of DOOM”; the referee brings over a wedge of paper, which everyone recognizes as Blade’s new contract. Blade takes it and holds it carefully, recognizing that he’ll need to work hard to hang on to it; Ridley’s already on his way to the back, his point made very clear to the chairman about where he stands on screwjobs (or more specifically, those not orchestrated by him). Blade just watches and makes a note to repay the favour should the situation arise, and then makes his own way out to a loud ovation from the crowd, ready to take RDK up on that offer of a drink.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 7: BK London vs. Hunter (Opening / Closing events credits: Hunter / BK)

The fans are still cheering after the previous match. Their cheers grow louder as Philip walks into the ring, signaling the beginning of the penultimate match.

Philip: The next match is a scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Rochester, NY, he is a member of the Senatorial Stable, Hunter!

"Thunderstruck" hits and Hunter makes his way to the ring. Most of the fans boo, but there are cheers heard. The fans are a little confused, as Hunter doesn't raise his trademark pyro, and he merely walks down to the ring and rolls in. He grabs the mic from Philip and holds up the note.

Hunter: Which one of you put this in my locker? If any of the people in the back did this, then get your asses out here!

The titantron and speakers remain empty and silent.

Hunter: Fine, then did any of the people in the AUDIENCE put this in my locker? Did you sneak past security and decide to screw with me? Come on, fess up!

No one in the audience moves or makes a sound.

Hunter: Fine. BK, get your ass out here.

Hunter gives the mic back to Philip and drops the note; on cue, “Public Service Announcement” hits, and there’s a mixed response as BK appears on the stage.

Philip: And his opponent, from Brooklyn New York……..B – K – London!

BK walks steadily to the ring, keeping his eyes on Hunter. He slides in and walks about, staking his claim to the combat space, before returning to face Hunter. The referee checks both men over and then gives the nod to the timekeeper; whatever else is going on in the heads of both men, it’s clear that they both very much want and intend to win this match.

Bell Rings.

Hunter and BK move in without too much delay and lock together, both pushing forward in an attempt to drive their foe backward to the ropes. After a moment’s hesitation, it’s Hunter that gets the better traction and BK finds himself backed up and facing a barrage of blows from a fired – up Hunter. BK battles back, but Hunter’s on something of a roll and he executes a neat backdrop suplex, which he follows up with his Equinox elbow drop from the top rope. Hunter pins and gets a count of 2 as reward for his aggressive start; the fans can tell at once that this has all the hallmarks of an intense, rather than drawn – out, encounter. BK’s more than prepared to fight fire with fire, and he replies with a release German suplex and a bit of taunting to boot as he stamps on Hunter, who’s trying to get up. Hunter uses the ropes to pull himself quickly to his feet; BK runs in for a clothesline, but Hunter whips around with his arm and elbow extended and hits BK hard, making the champion stagger back toward the centre of the ring. Hunter signals for the Shotgun and lifts a dizzy BK up into the vertical suplex position; but as he starts to drop BK into the RockBottom, BK counters into a brutal Implant DDT which spikes Hunter’s head directly into the mat. The fans shout their heads off, thinking that it’s already over – but Hunter gets a shoulder up at 2.5, and a small core of support starts cheering for Hunter in the face of the majority support for BK. Both men pull themselves up to their feet, and the match shows no signs of calming down as they close in and lock up once more.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

BK looks just a touch concerned by Hunter’s continuing resistance; as Hunter tries to whip him to the ropes, BK reverses it and collects Hunter on his return to give him a taste of “Vintage London”. The ring is shaken by the impact and BK pins, but Hunter kicks out again and the support for him is starting to get just a fraction louder. Both men stand back up and trade punches, each looking to stun their opponent long enough to deliver a finishing blow. Hunter manages it first and the crowd gets very loud indeed as Hunter runs in to kick BK and initiate the Dynamite, but BK has anticipated this and without undue fuss he simply grabs Hunter’s extended leg and counters the move into the Corporate Lock. Hunter’s now stranded in the centre of the ring; he tries to claw his way to the ropes but BK’s having none of it and he pulls Hunter back firmly. Hunter’s looking more tired with every second, but his brain’s still operating – he gathers his strength and then flips himself over, kicking BK hard so that he is sent backwards to land on his ass. Hunter rolls out of the ring – his patience has expired, and now his bad mood from earlier seems to be back with a vengeance. He pushes Philip off of his chair, folds it up and re – enters the ring, despite the warnings of the referee. The ref, angry at being disobeyed, tries to take the chair from Hunter – Hunter shoves the chair against the referee without thinking, and clocks him right between the eyes. The ref goes down; Hunter may not have deliberately set out to take him out, but as BK runs forward to attack Hunter has no qualms about swinging the chair and hitting BK in the chest. BK staggers back and Hunter takes aim for a headshot, but then there’s a huge rise in sound from the fans, and Hunter gets a face full of chair himself as TNT thunders to the ring and launches from the ropes into a VanDaminator. Hunter falls backward, stunned, and TNT doesn’t stay about to get spotted – he’s gone as fast as he came, taking the chair with him. BK is already heading to the nearest corner, and camera bulbs flash everywhere as he takes flight into the Brooklyn to London. The chair shot means that Hunter can’t respond, and the referee is lucid enough to make the 3 count as BK pins, making most of the fans cheer loudly.

Philip: Here is your winner………BK London!

With the fans still coming down from the intense action, BK gets up, goes over to the corner and ring announcer Phillip hands him a microphone.

BK: Earlier this night I talked to that sly snake Mercer and I demanded a rematch for the ACW Championship. But he stated that I can only get a shot if I prove I should get it or Yoko allows it. Now I know everyone wants to see the rematch for the title, Yoko Satoshi vs BK London for the World Title. Am I right?

The crowd gives BK a small pop and agrees with the former ACW Champion.

BK: So on my way to the ring, right before I beat the hell out of this assclown in the ring, I did something that would guarantee me a title shot no matter what.

BK then turns around a looks up at the rafters to the glowing ACW Omega Effect Sign.

BK: Something that would guarantee me a shot...hell, not even a shot but the main event of the biggest stage of them all in ACW. Where legends are created....Omega Effect.

Another small pop for BK emerges from the crowd.

BK: I entered myself in the 2005 Fallen Heroes 30 Man Battle Royal.

The crowd gives BK a much larger pop as they know this match will be one to remember with BK in it.

BK: So all participants, watch out, because I have felt ACW glory once before. I have felt the power while holding that belt, and I crave for it again, so I will do anything...and I mean anything...to get that belt again.

"Public Service Announcement" hits and BK begins to leave the ring to a good reaction from the crowd. Just one thing is on the mind of BK for sure now, and that is to hold ACW Gold once again as he walks up the ramp to the back.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: The conflict widens (Credit: Ridley / Rose)

As the fans are waiting for the main event, "Her Ghost in the Fog" hits and the fans’ attention shoots towards the rampway with a familiar type of anticipation. The fans subconsciously associate Rose’s theme music with a lot of things, with boundless carnage being chief among them. She walks down the to the ring and she looks like she is actually feeling worse than she did on Meltdown. Her mind is filled with thoughts of guilt, but most of all it is plagued with doubt about her decisions and the future. The fans reaction to her is decidedly mixed, but leaning more and more towards the positive. She does not particularly care how they feel about her and she does not expect them to love her anytime soon. She enters the ring slowly and cautiously puts the mic up to her mouth. Her voice is soft and not near as harsh as it normally is, but it is still filled with intense emotion.

Rose: Everything I am today, I owe to Ridley. He molded and made me who I am today. For that, I am grateful. I do believe that Ridley helped me become who I am because he loved me. Yes, I think that he did love me once some time ago when we were much younger. Over time, maybe I changed or maybe he changed, but for some reason our love was not the same and over time it became a poisoned love. Poisoned for the simple fact we probably saw what was coming, but we did not stop it. We may have seen Fate’s plan, but we did not try and stay his hand. That is a fault of our own and it is something we will have to accept.

Rose looks longingly at the mat and pauses briefly.

Rose: I haven’t accepted it yet and I am sure a part of me hopes that this storm will calm. A part of me hopes that this nightmare will end and I will awaken at Ridley’s side once more.

Rose smirks ever so slightly and sadly.

Rose: That part of me is a fool.

Rose stares into the camera slowly and just a little sadly.

Rose: So, Ridley and I have a match at Fallen Heroes and I cannot say that I hate the idea. I do want this nightmare to end in whatever way it has to. I don’t care what has to happen or what I have to do, I will put this behind me. I will finally attain the peace that I crave for so much. I will---

She doesn't get past that before the lights instantly die and a roar of static drowns her out, drawing a huge roar from the fans. "Puritania" hits immediately, and the post-countdown explosion clears just in time to reveal the figure of Ridley storming down the ramp. He's in the ring much faster than Rose had anticipated, and the microphone's found its way from her hand to his before she can blink an eye. Before the lights can even come all the way back up, Ridley's already spitting his words.

Ridley: Alexandra, I have stayed in the back and listened to you run your mouth on and on long enough, so now that I'm out here, allow me to shed light on several issues that you seem to have conveniently forgotten.

He turns and paces across the ring, continuing to speak into the microphone.

Ridley: First and foremost, do you know what I used to see when I looked into----

Completely out of left field, Rose clotheslines Ridley from behind, knocking him to the mat, and quickly puts the boots to him. The fans are astonished as she stomps away, not being used to this kind of action before, but their shouts rise as Ridley practically throws Rose off him and delivers some offense of his own, with forearms and punches up against the ropes. Rose isn't going to let herself be overcome that easily, though, and she fires back with equally devastating forearms. The two go toe-to-toe for a minute, slamming into each other with such impact that the sounds of the strikes can be heard all the way back in the fourth row.

The exchange doesn't last long, however, before Ridley's power finally overcomes Rose's brave front, and he lands shot after shot until she's practically out on her feet. With a diabolical glare in his eyes, Ridley grabs his former partner by the throat and jerks her off her feet, preparing to deal some kind of finishing blow...but he's so entranced with what he's doing, he fails to notice the crowd's sudden roar, an obvious sign that somebody new's entered the fray.

Before he can realize what's just happened, Ridley's already on the mat, having dropped Rose. He immediately pushes himself back up, but slams down just as fast, hitting hard enough to daze him temporarily. It takes a couple of seconds, as Ridley looks up and quickly touches his mouth to see if there's any bleeding, for him to realize he's just been curbstomped by his assailant, and he twists his head just in time to see the object of his rage:

Wyvern: RUN! Get out of here!

Rose is still a little stunned from Ridley's assault, but she doesn't question Wyvern's arrival, and slides under the bottom rope to get out of the ring. Wyvern's hot on her heels, anxious to get out before the recipient of his embarrassing attack recovers...but the iron hand that grabs him by the back of the neck dashes his hopes. He's hurled across the ring in an instant, and immediately rolls to the side, which probably saves him from a concussion as Ridley's stomp comes down right where his head was. Wyvern isn't lucky enough to escape the second one, though; it comes down directly on his back as he rolls, stopping him short. Ridley motions to the group of druids that have arrived at ringside as they produce a large object and throw it to him....

Rose screams just as loudly as the fans as Ridley jerks the ripcord on the Masamune, licking his lips in anticipation at the screech of the engine. He steps back as the unsuspecting Wyvern stands, dizzy, then blows the roof off the arena with a low blow via the weedwhacker, causing Wyvern to leap forward and hit the ground spasming uncontrollably. Ridley grins, obviously much more sated as he spits on his thrashing victim, drops the weedwhacker, and returns to the microphone.

Ridley: Look at this, Alexandra. It's yet another one of the victims of your treachery. I hope you're proud of yourself.

Rose stares in horror, a vivid contrast to Ridley's furious glare.

Ridley: As I was saying before this debacle...have you ever thought of what I now see when I look in your eyes, Alexandra? I'll tell you; I see my sister's eyes staring back out at me. I see the same look I saw in our "daughter's" eyes that night when she spat on everything we'd taught her, on the molding in my own image that I'd given her. I see NOTHING, except for my own failure, staring back out at me, a reminder of why I've never trusted anybody...and why I'll never make that mistake again. So spare me your sanctimonious ramblings and your false "longing to go back", woman; no amount of expostulation will ever justify you stabbing me in the back after everything I've done for you. So get out of here, and prepare for Fallen Heroes...because it'll be the day when vengeance finally comes for you.

Ridley picks up the barely-conscious Wyvern and throws him over the top rope, where he lands next to Rose. She kneels next to him, to make sure he's all right.

Ridley: And take your pussy-whipped knave with you. He put his neck on the chopping block to save somebody as worthless as you...so I'd say the least you could do would be to show him the gratitude you never had the decency to show me.

He slams the microphone down, finished as suddenly as he started, and leaves via the opposite side of the ring. The druids follow Ridley as he steps over the guardrail and heads to the back. His expression is not one of glee at what he's done, but one of rage, and it's not one that's likely to dissipate anytime soon.

End segment.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Jake Cheng, World Champ? (Credit: Jake Cheng)

As order is being restored in the arena, backstage Jake is exiting the New Breed locker room when the camera catches him. He’s obviously just seen what’s happened, and looks understandably worried.

Jake: Yeah, I am sure I don’t need you guys at ringside…. you need to be around in case Wyvern needs you after the medics are done with him.[/i]

Jake shuts the door and makes his way to the ring, with the camera following; as he goes, he talks.

Jake: Yoko, I know we really don’t have much of a history. I don’t think we have even been in a match against each other. But there was that one night. Emperor of the Ring. LW Championship match. A certain Italian named John Gotti. No not the mobster that died in jail. And another man. A priest by the name of Kross. Ironic huh? Anyway, I seized the moment during that match to get my revenge on Gotti. Yoko left her croquet mallet at ringside. I hit John right in the mouth, and Kross then found his opportunity to win the LW title.

Jake turns a corner and goes through the door to the immediate backstage, but pokes his head back through.

Jake: Now, I will seize my opportunity and win the World title from you.

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 8: Yoko vs. Jake - ACW World Title (pre match events credit: Yoko)

The fans are still getting over the whole Pain Inc situation as Philip enters the ring to finish his duties for the night. As always, his familiar and reassuring tones bring the fans’ attention back to the business at hand.

Philip: This is an intergender Singles match, set for one fall. Introducing first, from Okinawa Japan, she is the current ACW World Champion……Yoko Satoshi!

Yoko walks out to a largely positive response and heads down the ramp, with Mr. Floppy under her arm as normal. As Yoko reaches the ring, she places Mr. Floppy in the corner. Instead of entering though, she walks around it, and gets a microphone from ringside. She turns and addresses the ramp where she knows Jake is waiting to enter.

Yoko: Jake, When I saw that we had a match, I was overjoyed. You ruined my Lightweight Title reign in September. I thought I was going to get to defeat you, and simultaneously reclaim the Lightweight belt, which was stolen from me. I was going to be a double champion.

She looks at the curtain, almost burning a hole straight through.

Yoko: But no, you had to go and lose the belt, making this pretty pointless. But, I'm not angry. I'll be satisfied in beating you, that'll make me feel justified after September. Don't worry, I won't hurt you. So come out and play.

She drops the microphone and rolls into the ring. As she does so, “Encore / Numb” hits, and the fans start to cheer loudly as the challenger approaches.

Philip: And her opponent, from Dover NH, part of the New Breed……..Jake Cheng!

Jake walks out with a look of total focus; he holds up an arm in recognition of the crowd, but all his attention is on the ring. As he reaches it and enters, Yoko watches him and he watches her right back; it’s evident that Jake hasn’t taken all that kindly to Yoko’s comments, and would like nothing better than to shut her mouth both figuratively and literally.

The referee can sense the tension and, keen not to let things boil over, gives the signal for the match to get underway.

Bell Rings.

Yoko’s the first to move; almost as soon as the bell is heard she’s right up with Jake, striking with repeated kicks in an attempt to bring him to the mat. Jake, though, is not about to fall so quickly, and he soaks up the attack before retaliating with a roundhouse of his own. Yoko is only put off – balance for a moment, but that’s all Jake requires; he grasps Yoko from behind and squeezes, lifting the petite champion off of her feet. Yoko struggles, but it takes her a good 20 seconds to get free and when she does so she’s in obvious discomfort. Only now does Jake launch a full attack; focusing on the same area he kicks Yoko in the abdomen, and then with admirable skill lifts and twirls Yoko over his shoulders, finishing in a backbreaker – type move which is modified to land Yoko on her stomach instead. Jake drops Yoko to the mat and pins; his efforts get him a count of slightly more than 2, and Yoko is now fully aware that Jake is prepared to take his game to a new level in his quest to wrest the title from her. Her approach now is a little more cautious, and Jake smiles, but then Yoko wipes that out with a rake of the eyes and a swift Evenflow DDT. She pins, more as a statement than a serious stab at victory, and gets a solid 2; both contenders rise to their feet and the crowd leans forward, engrossed in the fascinating dynamics of the match. Yoko taunts Jake a little more, and Jake sends back a barbed reply before going for a shoulder tackle – Yoko sidesteps it and as Jake rebounds she hits him with a dropkick. Jake staggers and just about stays upright as he finds himself against the ropes, and the crowd yells as Yoko rushes forward and clotheslines the pair of them out over the top rope to the mats outside.

It takes both Yoko and Jake a couple of seconds to get back on the feet. Jake scores the first points, using the proximity of the ring to his advantage and grabbing Yoko by her hair, slamming her head repeatedly against the unforgiving ring apron. Yoko is dazed as Jake gets bored with this idea; throwing caution to the wind and playing to the crowd, he hops up on to the nearest elevated surface – an announce table – and nails a hurracanrana while Yoko’s too dizzy to get out of the way. The crowd shouts out at the audacious move, but the result seems to be that Jake has taken damage by landing against one of the security barriers, and it’s basically all square as the two pull themselves back to their feet. Yoko rises marginally more quickly, and deciding that she needs to make an impact she backs up and then charges forward, executing the Pop from Okinawa with perfect timing. The referee’s count is now at 8, and Yoko rolls Jake back into the ring before following in his wake. Wanting a pinfall or submission victory, Yoko pulls Jake up; he’s still leaning forward from the Pop, and Yoko looks to end the contest right there and then with the Flying Guillotine. Jake’s contingent of fans shout in warning, and it dies the trick – Jake rolls out of the way half on impulse at the last second, and Yoko looks a bit miffed as Jake rolls back to his feet. He holds up his hands, balled into fists, to show that he’s still got fight left in him, and Yoko nods; at the exact same moment the pair break and run at one another, and the crowd screams as they collide – Jake has the greater weight behind him, but Yoko lowers her head and drives forward to counter it. The resulting collision is brutal and both parties collapse to the mat; the referee starts a 10 count and the fans are going bonkers as the pair slowly begin to stir……

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Yoko is the first to get to a vertical base, at around the 7 count. Jake still looks woozy, and Yoko knows an opportunity when she sees one – she hurries around and locks in her Dragon sleeper before Jake’s awake enough to defend himself. The crowd is split over who they want to come out on top here; Yoko applies full pressure, and the referee lifts Jake’s arm for the first time. It falls; the referee repeats the process, a second fall; the sound in the arena is becoming deafening as the referee lifts Jake’s arm for the third and final time – and then gets louder still as Jake’s arm stays aloft. The ref’s only just got out of the way when Jake pulls out a desperation DDT; the ring shudders, and now there are chants for both superstars as Jake and Yoko struggle back up to their feet. Jake knows that he can’t let the match go on much longer, as his strength is being rapidly drained; he moves as fast as he can and delivers the X Factor to keep Yoko on the mat while he runs to the ropes and launches himself for the Dragon’s breath. At least, that’s the plan – but Yoko just about manages to roll aside and Jake misses, hitting unforgiving canvas. Yoko’s on top of him like a shot and she’s set up the Old Ball and Chain in moments; Jake’s eyes almost pop out on stalks and his hand wavers about, and Yoko smiles, certain that this time she’s done enough. But Jake’s pride won’t allow him to concede, and with a great effort he makes a grab for the ropes – and gets it! The crowd flips out again, and Jake drags himself to his feet; now even Yoko’s looking surprised. Jake raises his arms and runs at Yoko, who’s not quite up from her knees – the crowd yells as he goes for his own Shining Wizard, but Yoko ducks to the side and Jake misses. He lands on his feet in a crouch – and before he can stand up, Yoko leaps forward and delivers the Flying Guillotine, this time with supreme accuracy. Jake’s eyes glaze, and he doesn’t have enough left to kick out as the ref counts 3 to bring his brave challenge to an end.

Philip: Here is your winner, and still ACW World Champion……Yoko Satoshi!

The fans cheer both for Yoko’s retention of the belt, and for the quality of the match. Yoko rolls out of the ring, satisfied at having got the job done; she feels no further need to do harm to her opponent. Jake slowly gets up – he is very disappointed, but not beaten in spirit, and the fans cheer him as he too heads out, reflecting that at least his match didn’t result in any serious injury.

Out in the back, a camera picks up Rose pacing back and forth outside the medical room; the door is closed, and there are the sounds of a person in very considerable pain coming from within. At every cry, Rose shudders……and the anger in her eyes becomes a little more dangerous.

Although Rose doesn’t know it, she’s not alone in her building frustration. On her way out for the night, Alicia sees her; for a moment she considers speaking to Rose, but decides against it, knowing she has no words that will not sound fatuitous. She walks away instead, and takes out her cellphone from her pocket; a sigh escapes her lips, and she murmurs to herself as she searches for the number she wants……

Alicia: This……all of this isn’t the problem, just symptoms. The question is, can I convince the patient to accept the cure?

Alicia shoulders her bag, and with a more determined step exits through the arena side door as the show comes to a close.

Will Wyvern recover from his injuries? And what will his response to them be?

Is Ridley really capable of carrying out his threats to Rose?

And will Craig’s pulling technique ever improve?

Tune in to the next exciting episode of Meltdown to find out.

Fade to Black.

End of show.

[The Feature Presentation]

OoOoh yeah! Great Show Brudahs!