Thursday Night Meltdown 16th June 2005

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Whose career is it anyway? (Credit: Rose)

The scene opens up after the break within Chairman Gingerdude’s office and he is very, very hard at work. He is frustrated at the amount of time it takes to fill out simple paperwork and keep various disloyal talents in check. He is right in the middle of filling out papers for a very important business transaction, but he is stopped when he hears a knocking at his door. He never looks up as he calls for his visitor to enter.

Ginger: Come in….

Shawn Kiev enters the room and he looks to have a lot on his mind. He is dressed in a simple black suit and his eyes look to be very serious, but he forces a smile as he greets his client’s boss.

Kiev: Hello, Mr. Chairman.

Ginger: What brings you to my office Mr. Kiev? I am a very busy man.

Kiev takes a deep breath and lets out a sigh as he lets the cat out of the bag, so to speak.

Kiev: It’s about the Entertainment Title Tournament.

Ginger looks up from his paperwork for the first time and he hopes that this won’t take too long.

Ginger: What about it?

Kiev: I question Mr. Marvel’s agenda and I don’t think the tournament is a safe environment for my client.

Ginger: Are you suggesting…..

Kiev: Yes, I want you to take Sakina out of the tournament.

Kiev looks like he means business and Ginger is not in the mood to deny him his request outright, he wants to convince Kiev to keep Sakina in the tournament.

Ginger: You mean that you actually want me to take her out of the tournament after all that you said last week? You’ve built that girl up as one of the greatest rookies of all time and after your heartfelt, if not slightly controversial speech, I am sure that quite a few fans believe you. Can you imagine what dodging out of the tournament at this stage could do for you reputation?

Kiev: Sir, I don’t really care about my reputation as I do about Sakina’s well being, this tournament is nothing but a goddamn puppet show put together by Mr. Marvel for his amusement.

Kiev is visibly shaking with rage and it becomes obvious through the tone of his words, that he really does hate Davey Marvel. Ginger is growing weary of this discussion, but tries to use hard facts to get Kiev to change his mind.

Ginger: Puppet show or not, it really drives ratings. You have looked at the ratings for the tournament matches, haven’t you?

Kiev stops and for the first time in this discussion, he is not sure of himself. He thinks about it for a second and realizes that he hasn’t.

Kiev: No sir, I don’t have time---

Ginger smiles to himself, as he realizes that he has some information that Kiev does not, and then he plays his ace of spades.

Ginger: Well, it’s my job to monitor such things and I’ve noticed that the quarter hours with tournament matches always get ratings that are a bit higher than other quarter hours. This tournament is really helping to boost our television audience and everything from our merchandise sales to our house show numbers is benefited by high ratings. You may feel that it is the best interests of your client to bow out of the tournament, but I urge you, think of our company’s best interests.

Kiev takes a few moments to seriously consider what Ginger has just revealed to him. He has developed a love for ACW in the short time he’s been here and hopes to see it succeed, but then he realizes that he is not quite sure of what Marvel has planned. He doesn’t want to be manipulated himself and most importantly, he doesn’t want to see Sakina manipulated. He knows that the remaining matches in the tournament are very grueling and he is shaken by the fact that he doesn’t know Marvel’s full agenda.

Kiev: Mr. Chairman, with all due respect, I cannot put this company’s financial interests over the physical, mental, and emotional well being of my client.

Ginger: Well, then Mr. Kiev, what would you suggest that I do? I simply cannot cancel your match tonight….

Kiev starts to get very angry and his voice starts to rise in volume. He thought that it would go this far and he decides to expose Marvel to the Ginger in hopes that he will take action. He has studied Marvel extensively for quite a few days now and has become a bit on an expert on his title reign. If he cannot get Sakina out of the tournament, then he will make sure that Marvel is stripped of the title and therefore, there would be no need for a tournament.

Kiev: Mr. Chairman, on Tuesday night Marvel became the longest reigning Entertainment champion in our company’s history. He’s held the title for 67 days, as of today, and in those 67 days, do you know how many times he defended his title? Can you even give me an estimate?

Ginger: Not off the top of my head…

Kiev: Well, Mr. Chairman, I’ve done a bit of a study on his title reign, and I know it by heart now. He’s defended his title a total of 5 times in a 67 day period. Can you believe it? He’s defended it 5 measly times in 67 days and most of those were against people who should not have even been contending for the title in the first place.

Kiev’s voice reaches the point where he is nearly yelling as his utter hatred for Marvel begins to show.

Kiev: His reign thus far is not only a disgrace to all the men who bled to make that title what it was, but it is a disgrace to this company. If I were in your shoes, I would suspend him or at the very least strip him of the title for having a blatant disregard of his duties as an ACW competitor and as a champion.

Ginger is tired of being yelled at and he is very tired of being told how to do his job. He gets angry himself and yells back at Kiev.

Ginger: I will not do that Mr. Kiev and you would do well not to raise your voice to me again. Even if I wanted to, I cannot do anything to Mr. Marvel, he has followed all the rules and regulations set out before him.

Kiev’s voice lowers a great deal and he decides to try to get Sakina out of the tournament once again.

Kiev: OK, he can keep his title, but for the love of God, let Sakina out of this…this....joke…of a tournament.

Ginger: It says Sakina Vs Rena: Last Woman Standing Match on the card and that’s exactly what the fans are expecting to see. If I disappoint them by scrapping the match from the card completely, then we could lose money in the long run….

Kiev opens his mouth ever so slightly and his eyes light up. He has just the idea that will make them both happy.

Kiev: What if……….

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Ginger notices that Kiev like he has just had the idea of his life and he wants to hear what it is.

Ginger: Go on.

Kiev: What if I found a suitable opponent?

Ginger: Interesting………Who would you suggest?

Kiev: I don’t know……..how about……

Suddenly a familiar man walks through the door, which Kiev forgot shut when he came in the room, and he looks to be a very happy, if not slightly intense, man.

??: Yes, excuse me, but I think I have just the answer for your problems.

Ginger knows who this man is, but Kiev has apparently never met him. There is an awkward silence for a bit, but Ginger finally decides to introduce them to one another.

Ginger: Mr. Kiev, this is Mr. Donovan Reeves and Mr. Reeves, this is Mr. Shawn Kiev.

Reeves: I’m pleased to meet you Mr. Kiev, you manage Sakina Khalida, don’t you?

The two shake hands and Kiev kindly responds to Reeves.

Kiev: Likewise…….Yes, I do manage her…….you manage Grimlock don’t you?

Reeves: Ah, you’ve seen my nephew in action, impressive, isn’t he?

Kiev: He has gotten out to a good start, I was hoping that he would have beaten Marvel and then this whole damned tournament wouldn’t be needed.

Reeves is a little bitter about the loss and did not want to have salt thrown on his wounds.

Reeves: It was a very narrow defeat, Marvel simply got lucky and it won’t happen again. To tell you the truth, that’s actually why I headed in this direction, I was going to demand a rematch and I came just in time to overhear a bit of your conversation….. You know, Mr. Gingerdude, I think that Sakina should be let out of the tournament. If she did win the tournament, then she would inevitably get torn to shreds by Marvel at Omega Effect.

Kiev is offended by Reeves’ apparent lack of faith in Sakina’s abilities and he hopes that he has just misheard Reeves’ remarks.

Kiev: Excuse me?

Reeves: I’ve seen the girl in action, she’s a very skilled ring tactician, but she is much too frail and is far too inexperienced to try and take on a champion at this stage of her career. Mr. Kiev, I normally don’t try to tell other managers how to manage their talent, but if you try to push her to the top too soon, then she could be seriously injured or worse. I have seen far too many young up and coming stars’ careers end in an untimely manner.

Kiev’s temper flairs and he is getting very angry.

Kiev: What are you trying to say?

Reeves: I am not trying to insult her talent, she is a future star, that’s for sure, but Grimlock is a star today and he deserves the title that is so rightly his. He can take Sakina’s spot in the tournament now and I promise you that he will defeat Marvel. He will defeat Marvel and Sakina can continue to safely work on Fallout and hone her skills. When she is ready to play in the big leagues, then we will gladly grant her a title shot. It’s a win/win situation, what do you say Kiev?

Kiev’s pride has taken the best of him and he is ready to flat out deny Reeve’s requests. He has listened to Reeves bash Sakina’s talents for long enough and he is getting legitimately angry about it. He doesn’t want to be wrong about Sakina and most importantly, he doesn’t want Reeves to be right. He believes that if he agrees to taking her out of the tournament, then he would be admitting that she is not all that he said she was.

Kiev: No.

Reeves loses his cool for a second and he isn’t believing what he is hearing.

Reeves: Excuse me?

Kiev: I said no.

Ginger rolls his eyes and thinks that this entire conversation has been a huge waste of time on his part.

Ginger: Really, Mr. Kiev, you are getting exactly what you want.

Kiev: I’ve changed my mind; the match will go on tonight as scheduled. I’m sorry for wasting everybody’s time.

Ginger sighs in a mixture of anger and exhaustion, but he is more than willing to end this in whatever way he can.

Ginger: Don’t let it happen again, now get out of here.

Reeves is getting very frustrated and raises his voice as he pleads….nearly demands for Kiev to reconsider.

Reeves: Hold on a minute here. Mr. Kiev, I urge you to think about what you are doing.

Kiev has his mind made up by this point and tries to go on about his business.

Kiev: I’ve thought about it all I want to. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to make sure that Sakina is properly prepared for tonight’s match.

Reeves’ frustration has turned into full blown anger, but he is controlling himself and he tries with all his might to get Kiev to change his mind.

Reeves: Kiev, please, don’t make a serious mistake. You are endangering Sakina’s career with your bold maneuvers. First your controversial little spiel last week made yourself handful of enemies, who won’t think twice about going after her as well as you, and now you have her out of her league in a tournament that she cannot hope to win. Ask yourself, what would she want to do?

At that moment Kiev does just what Reeves’ suggests, he thinks about Sakina. He thinks about how much they both love the business and he thinks about just how talented a competitor she is. He remembers how hard she trains every day and he remembers just how brightly her eyes shined when she heard that she was going to be in the tournament. In truth, she still wants to be in the tournament, regardless of the risk, but she was going to trust his judgment and bow out of it. Kiev looks past his hatred for Marvel and realizes that he should be putting her wants first, no matter what he feels personally. He also realizes that he should not let his pride make him make the wrong decision either. In the end, he makes his decision based on what Sakina would want wants and he knows that she would not back down from a challenge so easily.

Kiev: You’re right, Reeves, that’s exactly what I should’ve been doing all along and that is exactly why we will be staying in the tournament.

Reeves: But---

Ginger is done with this whole ordeal, Kiev has made his decision, and now Ginger just wants to get back to his work.

Ginger: Could you gentleman please leave now? I have a rather large company to run and the sooner this paperwork gets filled out the better.

Reeves: But---

Ginger’s voice grows stern and he stares coldly at Reeves.

Ginger: I am through asking.

Kiev: I’ll be leaving now.

Reeves looks at Kiev with spite as he exits the door. Kiev turns to Ginger and gives his leave with a large amount of anger in his voice.

Reeves: As will I…..

The door slams, and the show takes a break to commercials.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: ACW’s new enforcer (Credit: Senator)

The camera opens up after the break in the referee's locker room. Four of the regular referees are sitting around a small television, on which is playing the infamous Cernunnos/Kalb title match from the previous Fallout. One other referee, the one who refereed the match, is sitting off to the side, shaking his head.

Ref 1: Hey Greg, how the heck did you let that match get out of hand like that?

Ref 2: Wait...here's the part where he slaps Kevin Fitsharris like a girl!

Greg: Come on, it's not like the rest of you haven't blown any calls...

Suddenly, a rather large person crashes into the room, wearing a referee shirt, and somewhat resembling a more muscular Sean Connery.

??: Ok, listen up here!

Ref 3: Who the heck are you?

??: My name is Raymond Allen Fleming, and I am the new chief referee around here! From what I can tell, you blokes are the sorriest lot of tender footed, bird legged, panty waisted, soft bellied, twig armed, pencil necked geeks that I can recall since grammar school! I'm here to ref the big matches, and nobody's going to get anything past me! I'm going to make you boys into men if I have my way around here!

Greg: Oh great....

RAF: What did you just say?

Greg: I said...

RAF: I really could care less!

Greg: But...

RAF: Shut your bloody mouth! Save it for someone who cares, I saw that match you refereed, and that was a pure load of rubbish! My first official action around here is going to be demote you one pay grade for a month or until you start to show an improvement! That will be all.

RAF storms out the door, leaving the rest of the ACW referee staff quivering in their seats, wondering what the heck just happened, and if they will ever have another pleasant day in their ACW careers.

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Change of Plans (Credit: Davey)

The scene is set on Gingerdude's office. Davey Marvel barges in and is without Revenant at his side. He is furious and has total disregard for Gingerdude's privacy. Davey is still sweaty from his match earlier in the night with Grimlock. He walks up to Gingerdude’s desk and slams his hand down on the desk. Gingerdude's head peers up from the paperwork he was attending to.

Gingerdude: And what do you want?

Davey: Grimlock in another match ASAP.

Gingerdude: Well it can't happen this Monday because I have you scheduled in a 6 man tag.

Davey: Really, with who?

Gingerdude: You and fellow New Breed members Wyvern and Jake vs Senator, Hunter and Angelo of the senatorial stable.

Davey is a bit taken back by this. The fans cheer on the huge match Ginger just announced. Davey quickly shrugs that off and moves right back on to the task at hand.

Davey: I don't care when I get the match just as long as I get the match. Did you see what he did to me Gingerdude? All I was doing was trying to pry his poonjab monkey boy off of my manager and he gets the nerve to attack me. I want the match as soon as possible and I want it as brutal as possible.

Gingerdude: Well Davey I really don't know what to tell you. You are booked up til way after OE and there is no way I can squeeze him into that 6 man tag so it seems that you are pressed for luck. Tah tah.

Davey rubs his face in frustration he then walks over to the door and stops with a huge smile on his face. Davey turns back around and stands in front of Ginger's desk again.

Davey: Now Ginger I don't know if you have seen the recent rating reports that suggest that a "certain" superstar's tournament is responsible for the recent spike in ratings. Or how about the recent marketing reports which show that "certain" superstar's merchandise selling out show after show. Now I know that you get a majority of the money from these happenings and I would hate to see you lose that money due to "certain" superstars lack of motivation as a direct result of not being treated the way they feel they should.

Gingerdude’s expression becomes more serious and he stands up from behind his desk.

Gingerdude: Well I have to say that I don't like the sound of your tone, However you do make a good point so I will let you come up with an idea that I approve of course.

Davey's is happy with what he hears and shakes Ginger's hand.

Davey: Thanks G-money. Sorry about that tone.

Gingerdude: Yes, no problem.

Davey takes his hand back and makes his way out the door. The door suddenly opens, it is Davey again.

Gingerdude: Now what do you want?

Davey: I thought of it!

Gingerdude: Shoot.

Davey: I say I put him in the match at OE. What do you think to that?

Gingerdude: Have you gone mad? What about the winner of the tournament?

Davey: Well I will face the winner as well. I will face them both in the same match. I really don't see this to be a problem as I will assure you there is no way I could lose to either of them. Plus this tourney is all about the entertainment side of the title and I think that the fans would be much more entertained with a third entrant.

Gingerdude: Well now that you put it that way. I mean it is your tournament so I guess I can allow it.

Davey: Thanks G-money.

Davey walks out the door with jubilation on his face and revenge on his mind.

End of scene.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: The Chateau part 2 (Credit: Skurai)

Skurai: What the hell do you mean I can’t get in!

The scene opens to Skurai standing in front of the Chateau, a large and evidently popular eating establishment, with many of the restaurant’s personnel blocking his way in. What appears to be the manager steps forward and tries to calm Skurai down.

Manager: Listen sir. Zee restaurant iz full of people and you do not have a reservation. I am sorry but we cannot let you enter.

Skurai: Oh come on. I am not even going to order anything I just want to talk with someone in there.

Manager: Still not acceptable. We are terribly sorry. You could always try zee McDonalds down the street from here.

Skurai: Maybe this can help me get in?

Skurai reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small box and slides into the manager’s hands.

Manager: Sir what in zee hell is this?

Skurai: Why it is the very first season of Macgyver!

Manager: That is it sir! Leave right now!

Skurai: Fine, fine. Don’t you think I will forget this and neither will Macgyver!

The manager hands Skurai back his Macgyver DVD. Skurai takes it back but with his other hand grabs the keys off the manager’s pants.

Skurai: (mumbling) Goddamn French. Luckily I got these.

Skurai smiles and whips out a pair of keys. As he reaches the alley he stops at the backdoor and uses the keys. Making his way into the restaurant Skurai slides into the women’s bathroom. As the door opens Skurai spots a familiar face washing her hands. Skurai quickly presses himself up against a wall and quickly peeks over.

Skurai: Holy shit, I just hit the jackpot.

The camera pans over to see none other then BK London’s wife Kiley. Skurai reaches into his pocket and pulls out a black bottle and a handkerchief and pours the substance from the bottle onto it. In a blink of an eye Skurai is already behind Kiley. Skurai puts the handkerchief over Kiley’s mouth and she collapses quietly.

Skurai: Ah when she wakes up the fun shall start. Now to find me some clothes to fit in around here…

The scene ends with Skurai walking toward the door.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Capital intentions (Credit: Senator)

Coming back from the break, the camera is following the Capitalists, Kevin Fitsharris, and the ACW Junior champ, Anthony Kalb around the corridors of the ACW Arena Complex. The two appear to be in no hurry, joking and laughing, when Kevin Anderson runs up to them with a microphone.

Anderson: Mr. Kalb! If you have a moment, could you answer...

Kalb: Fine, although I would prefer it if you called me Mr. ACW Junior Champion Anthony Kalb, though I can understand how that would take you too long, and you might forget something there...

Fitsharris: What about me? You got any questions for me?

Anderson: Nope, just want to ask Mr. Kalb how he feels about winning his Junior...

Kalb: It feels terrible, awful, horrible....or maybe not. What the heck do you think I feel about winning this back? That's a stupid question, ask another one!

Anderson: Ummm, ok...so...some people say you cheated a lot to win that title, and that's why they hired...

Kalb: I could care less what people say, I got my title, and that's the story! Who's name's on the plate? Mine.

Fitsharris: Hey buddy, you got a problem with us? Do you?

Anderson: Ummm...yes...no, no! I don't got no...any problems with you two!

Kevin Fitsharris stands right in the interviewer's face, talking in a low, snarling tone.

Fitsharris: Are you sure about that, since it does sound like you're a bit screwed up there, and if you want trouble...I can bring it.

Anderson: Uh, well, sure...no...yes! I am sure I have no troubles in my screwed up...no...aargh!

Fitsharris: Relax there, bud, I was just messing with you! Wow, talk about jumpy...

Kalb: Indeed. Well, let's go see if the Senator needs anything taken care of, I'm sure he does....

Fitsharris grabs Kevin Anderson by the shirt collar, and tosses him aside, and the Capitalists walk on, Kalb polishing his title belt with his shirt sleeve, and Fitsharris nearly doubled over, laughing at the hapless Kevin Anderson.

Anderson(catching his breath): Ok...that's the story from the Capitalists! And this is Kevin Anderson, whew, signing off!

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Welcome Back (Credit: Kiji)

As the scene shifts once more, Stanton sits in his office shuffling papers. He staples a few together and is in the process of putting them in his file cabinet when Kiji walks in.

Kiji: You wanted to see me, sir?

Stanton: I did. Vanessa tells me you've been training hard and making great progress. I think it's time you were rewarded for your efforts.

Kiji smiles happily at the praise, effecting the manner of a dog being petted.

Kiji: Thank you, sir. I had a lot of fun and learned how to slam people.

Stanton grins indulgently.

Stanton: Yes, that was the point.

He leans back in his chair and steeples his fingers musingly before his face.

Stanton: Hmm. How about a hardcore match... fans bring the weapons... working stiff?

He raises his eyebrow questioningly. Kiji nods, grinning.

Kiji: Thank you, sir. When will the match take place?

Stanton: Getting ahead of yourself, aren't you? You don't even know who you'll be facing. "The Spartans do not ask how many, but where they are." Hmm... how about this Monday? I'll work out your opponent later; I'm sure you don't care who it is.

Kiji shrugs noncommittally. He continues to stand there for a long while. Stanton looks up from the paperwork he had resumed.

Stanton: ...Well? You can go now.

Kiji turns and leaves as instructed, leaving Stanton to his work.

End Segment.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 4: ET Tourney Match – 2nd Round
Sakina Khalida vs Rena – Last Woman Standing (Credit: Rose)

With all the commotion surrounding this match, the fans can’t wait to see what will actually happen. Philip gets the ball rolling.

Philip: Ladies and Gentleman, this is a Last Woman Standing match that will help decided the number 1 contender for The Entertainment Title. Introducing first, from Antalya, Turkey and being accompanied to the ring by her manager, Shawn Kiev, please welcome Sakina Khalida.

“Hepsin Senin Mi” hits and the crowd gets on their feet for ACW’s newest duo. The first person to come out from behind the curtain is Shawn Kiev; he is wearing a navy blue suit and he looks to be very confident in Sakina’s chances in this match. There is an air of confidence around him that is not unfamiliar to the rabid ACW fans. He stands at the base of the ramp and patiently awaits the arrival of his skilled client. Sakina comes out and she is wearing her tights, which have not changed since last time. Sakina gets a positive response from the crowd as she begins her long march to the ring. She walks slightly ahead of Kiev and waves a bit at the crowd along the way. They walk to the center of the ring and exchange a few quick words. They stand side by side and exchange a last minute conversation as the music stops. Kiev quickly exits the ring and takes his place on the outside.

Philip: And next, from New York, New York, she is the ACW Diva’s Champion, please welcome Rena Matheson.

“Slave 4 U’ hits and Rena comes out from behind the curtain to the cheers of many of her adoring male fans. She has her title with her and she looks to be in a very serious mood for this match. She is not going to be upstaged by anybody in her mind and she is confident that she can defeat Sakina. She discussed this match with The Senator backstage and he gave her a few suggestions that will no doubt give her an edge in this match. She takes her corner and is more than ready for this match to begin.

Bell Rings

Sakina and Rena slowly circle one another as this match gets under way. The thing about this match is that it really doesn’t suit either of their styles, but they both hope that some minor adjustments will give them the victory. They engage in a collar to elbow tie up, Sakina quickly gets behind her and makes a full nelson attempt, but Rena is to quick and she hits a beautiful arm drag on her opponent. Sakina quickly tries to get up to her feet, but she runs right into a sickeningly vicious chick kick from Rena that gets her right at the bridge of her nose. Sakina holds her nose in pain as she hits the mat and when she removes her hands it becomes obvious that Rena’s vicious kick has caused a pretty nasty cut to be opening up on her nose. Sakina sucks it up and uses the nearby ropes to help herself to her feet. When she gets to her feet, she is able to see Rena coming right for her with a swift martial arts kick, but Sakina ducks this time and takes the top rope with her. Rena misses and her momentum carries her all the way over the top rope and into the outside. Rena lands on the outside and the impact knocks the breath out of her. The Referee gets to a count of 5 before she gets to her feet and she looks up to see that Sakina is still in the ring waiting for her. Sakina is bleeding from the cut on her nose, but it isn’t a “crimson mask” type deal yet. Rena gets on the ring apron and Sakina hits her with a running knee that knocks her back to the outside. Sakina looks like she is pretty angry at Rena’s stiff offense earlier and she probably wants to get in a little offense of her own. Rena gets back to her feet a few seconds later and she is just as angry as Sakina is now. Rena moves toward the ring and Sakina quickly sprints forward and dives through the ropes with a suicide dive. Sakina doesn’t connect all the way and they both hit the protective mats on the outside a little awkwardly. The Referee counts to 3 and this is when Kiev starts to check up on Sakina.

He tries to give her words of encouragement and when this doesn’t work that well, he is intent to help her back up to her feet. At the count of 7 Rena gets up to her feet before Kiev can help Sakina all the way up to her feet and she is quick to force him out of the way and start her assault on her opponent. She grabs Sakina by her hair and her lower back and forcefully puts her back in the ring. Rena follows her into the ring and actually takes a few seconds to catch her breath and rethink her strategy thus far. Sakina is still kind of disoriented from her suicide dive that nearly went wrong and gets to her feet very slowly. When she does, Rena gives her a textbook Irish Whip into the corner and follows it up with a vicious clothesline that isn’t really a part of her regular style. Sakina is trapped in the corner and Rena gives her some stiff kicks that at the very least sound brutal, but I bet they feel just as brutal. Rena has a plan, she turn Sakina around and lifts her up to the top rope. Rena follows her up on what can only be a back superplex……she begins to lift Sakina up, when Sakina suddenly reverses and hits something that can be described as a top rope Russian legsweep. Needless to say, they both hit the mat hard and it becomes the Referee’s job to count. He gets to 6 when Sakina starts to get to her feet. He gets to 8 when Rena makes the same movements. Rena gets to her feet at 9 and that is just in time to run into a running enziguri delivered by Sakina. Sakina’s left foot connects squarely with Rena’s head, but upon landing, her other foot lands very awkwardly. The both hit the mat at about the same time and upon impact, Sakina begins to hold her right foot and it looks like she may have sprained her ankle…..or worse…..on a bad landing.

Sakina gets to her feet first, but she did limp the entire way up. She gets her left hand to a ready position and extends her middle finger and her ring finger and she waits for Rena to get to her feet. Rena gets to her feet and she is immediately hit by Sakina’s variation of the mandible claw, Chaos. Sakina locks it in and Rena goes for her first instinct and tries to bite at Sakina’s fingers. She is able to apply some pressure, but Sakina’s glove negates that and it is impossible for Rena to apply a great deal of pressure while in the nerve hold Rena slowly starts to wear down and it looks like Sakina will be able to claim her victory in this contest. Rena will not go down without a fight and she begins to struggle wildly, she hits Sakina with a few stiff punches right at the bridge of her nose that nearly gets her out of the hold. Sakina’s hesitation is all that she needs and Rena is able to hits a DDT on Sakina, while she still has the nerve hold applied. Sakina actually manages to hold in the hold upon impact, but it slips out a few seconds later. Both competitors are getting resound applauds for their match and fans cannot decide who, it anybody, will get up from this one. They both begin to stir at 6…………7…..(Rena is to one knee and Sakina is still flat on her stomach)…….8..(Rena is still on one knee and now Sakina is as well)……..9..( The both spring forward and Sakina is able to get back to her feet and prop herself in the corner, but Rena is not so lucky and she hits the mat)…………10. The fans give both competitors a bit of an ovation as The Referee calls for the Bell.

Bell Rings

Philip: Here is your winner by knockout, Sakina Khalida.

Sakina is propped up in the corner and she is heavily favoring her right ankle. Her nose is bleeding a bit less now, but it has not stopped. Rena has gotten back to her feet and is very frustrated that she lost this match so narrowly. Rena is confident that she made a point, however, she is now a force to be reckoned with. She heads backstage with that good thought in her mind and the cheers(and a little jeers) from the fans in her ears. Kiev meets Sakina in the ring and his eyes are beaming with pride. He is so happy for her and she looks very happy as well. He looks her up and down really quick and decides that he will help her to the back. He opens the ropes for her and helps her out of the ring and all the fans show their appreciation as Kiev helps her away.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Winding down (Credit: Rose)

Sakina and Kiev get back behind the curtains and start walking to their locker room. Sakina is limping, so Kiev supports her and tries to get her back to their locker room with a minimal amount of stress. She also has a nasty cut on the bridge of her nose that is causing her a great deal of pain.

Kiev: Let’s get you back to locker room, I left the air conditioner on as we left, just like you like it.

Sakina winces a bit, but then she smiles at Kiev and it makes him realize that he did make the right decision earlier. The finally make it to the door and they do have quite a bit of trouble opening it, but that is to be expected since they are working on three good legs. They enter the room and Kiev picks her up for the last bit of their journey and gently lays her on the couch that is situated on the far end of the room. He then helps her prop her ankle on a pillow that is usually reserved for quick naps during long days at the ACW arena.

Kiev: I know I don’t have to tell you this, but stay off your ankle. It’s only sprained, but I am going to get some ice to reduce the swelling, Ok?

Sakina nods in the affirmative and tries to make herself as comfortable as possible. Her adrenaline is wearing down now and she is starting to feel all the aches and pain from the match team up against her. Kiev quickly leaves the room and leaves her alone for a bit. For the first time she reaches up and feels of her nose and when she pulls her hand back, she sees that she is not bleeding badly, but she is not sure how bad of a cut it is. She lays there trying to be strong, but feeling a little miserable and is quietly hoping that her nose won’t scar in the long run. A few minutes later, Kiev quickly reenters the room with a bag of ice in his hand.

Kiev: You wouldn’t believe how hard it is to get a bag of ice from the trainer, what a moron. I don’t know why Ginger keeps him on the payroll.

Kiev looks down at her ankle and notices that it has swollen a good bit since he left.

Kiev: You sprained it worse than I thought, but it’s nothing that a little rest and a lot of ice won’t help.

He smiles softly and looks up at Sakina’s face. He then realizes that he had forgotten all about her cut, but luckily, it looks like it isn’t bleeding very badly. He moves in for a closer look and despite not bleeding very badly, it is still a pretty deep cut.

Kiev: She cut you deep didn’t she? It doesn’t matter, you won the match and it doesn’t look toooooo deep. I guess I will try to doctor on it a bit….

Sakina’s eyes widen and she starts to say something, but Kiev softly cuts her off.

Kiev: I don’t want to hear it, last time was an accident and you turned out fine in the long run didn’t you, besides, it’s just a cut.

Kiev calmly walks over to his gym bag and gets a first aid kit out of it that he keeps for emergencies. He takes the kit over and he pulls a chair over near Sakina’s couch. He looks at the cut and realizes who is to blame for it.

Kiev: I’ll make you pay for this Marvel……

Kiev opens the kit and begins to doctor on her injury. She begins to hum a quiet song as he cleans the wound and truthfully, they are both amazed that he is actually doing this right. They begin to joke, in her native tongue, about the only other time he had to doctor one of her injuries. They don’t use English, simply because Kiev’s Arabic is better than Sakina’s English. They joke for a good few minutes and Kiev manages to get a bit of laughter out of her with his strange sense of humor. He is about halfway done with cleaning the cut when they stop talking and Sakina slowly hums herself to sleep.

Fade to black.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

The Chateau part 3 (Credit: Skurai)

Loud punching noises are heard as the scene fades into Skurai standing over a half naked man in what looks to be the bathroom. Skurai finishes taking off the man’s clothes and shoves him into a stall.

Skurai: I can’t believe the things I do just for revenge.

Skurai walks into a nearby stall as the sounds of rustling of clothes. Within a few moments Skurai emerges from the stall dresses fully in a waiter outfit. Skurai makes his way out of the bathroom and into the main room of the Chateau. A women in a red dress tries to gain his attention.

Women: Sir! We have been waiting awhile for someone to take our order.

Skurai: In a minute ya harpie.

Women: Why I never!

Skurai continues to walk until he notices BK sitting at his table. He stops and looks at BK.

Skurai: Sir. Have you decided what to order yet?

BK doesn’t even look up as he stares into his menu.

BK: Give me some time. I am waiting for my wife to return from the restroom.

Skurai: Oh that was your wife in the bathroom? I must say she was going down on quite a few people but I would recommend today’s soup for your meal.

BK throws down his menu and looks up at Skurai.

BK: What the fuck did you just say?!?

Skurai: About your wife being the human vacuum or about the minestrone?

BK: You son of a bitch!

BK stands up and flips over the table and looks directly at Skurai.

Skurai: Surprise BK!

BK: What the fuck are you doing here!

Skurai and BK lunge at each as they begin brawling. The customers start to scream as they panic out. The scene ends with BK and Skurai both throwing right hands at each other.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: The meeting

Outside, the evening sun has dropped below the horizon; the last of the light is fading rapidly into a starry sky. With the show mid way through, it’s quiet out in the parking lot, but as the fans look a little closer they can see someone walking among the cars. The figure moves along until they reach a nondescript hatchback, and as the camera moves closer, Alicia’s form becomes recognizable even in the dying light. She opens the trunk and takes out a pair of training shoes, which she evidently forgot to take with her when she entered the building; she closes the trunk again, and then moves around to the driver’s door. She opens it and gets in, and sits there for a moment, with the shoes on her lap. Alicia looks out of the window at the lengthening shadows of the other cars, and puts her hands behind her head.

Alicia: Well?

The shot widens so that the audience can see both of the front seats of the car. Even so it takes a few seconds for them to spot the man in the other seat; his skin is extremely dark, the kind of ebony that is only found on those from the very hottest and most savagely sun-scorched lands. Only when his pupils move can we see the whites of his eyes, almost startling against the pitch of the rest of his form.

When he speaks, it’s with a rich voice laden with the sounds of his homelands, recognizable to several of the crowd as African, although they’re not sufficiently well versed to know which country or region.

??: So you came, Princess.

Alicia’s eyes narrow a little.

Alicia: You know I hate that.

The man laughs a little, with a look that indicates that he does indeed know, and does not care one iota.

??: I had to double check myself before I was sure I had found you. I never thought that you would stoop to the level of a harlequin in a crude circus such as this.

Alicia: Are you just going to bore me with your opinions, Mbeke, or is there some reason I’m still sitting here?

Alicia pops the car door; the man places a hand on her own. His fingers are long and almost skeletal.

Mbeke: You know that I would not be taking such a huge risk as this if it were not for a good reason, Kita, and neither would you.

Alicia shuts the door again.

Alicia: Sorry. It’s just been so long since I’ve cast even half a thought to my previous employment…. three years, and not a word from anyone. Which, I might add, was exactly how I wanted it.

Mbeke: I’m sure it was, but life’s a bitch, sweetness. You ready to listen?

Alicia: All right. Go on.

Mbeke: It’s about the syndicate. Everything is falling apart….. recruitment has stopped, and fracturing is starting to appear in the existing units. The commission is becoming increasingly divided over the direction to take in dealing with the present and future threat.

Alicia: But…. how?

Mbeke: Not much is being said officially. But unofficially…. I believe that we may have a traitor on the inside, at the very highest level. Someone is working to wreck things from within, and the imbeciles who masquerade as the leadership these days are blind to the whole thing.

Alicia looks concerned for a moment, but then shrugs.

Alicia: Remind me why I would care about all this. I’m no longer part of the syndicate, and I intend to stay that way. You know that.

Mbeke snorts and rolls his eyes.

Mbeke: You can believe whatever you want, Princess. I’m sure that Bioletti thought the same, right up to the moment that he had his throat cut.

Alicia’s eyes widen, and her voice becomes quieter.

Alicia: Bioletti’s…….dead?

His silence gives her the answer.

Alicia: SHIT.

She really doesn’t want to ask the next question.

Alicia: The others?

Mbeke: Bioletti, Sverdlov, Chase and Bruckner are all confirmed terminated. Boro’s disappeared, probably into the outback. And if you’ve got any sense in that head of yours you’ll do the same.

Alicia: Timescale?

Mbeke: They didn’t find Bruckner for several months, given that his body was dumped in the Yangtze. It’s not exactly been happening overnight, but whoever this is is patient and determined. It could be weeks, months even, before you have even the slightest reason to worry…. or it could be the second you get out of this vehicle. There’s no possible way to tell.

There is a pause as Alicia (and the audience) consider this. Mbeke’s expression alters to show just the tiniest hint of sympathy, but no more.

Mbeke: For what it may be worth, princess, I’m sorry. But this isn’t a drill; you and I may never have been friends exactly but I respect you, and this is why I’ve come here. Someone’s out to eradicate the Sideem once and for all, and they’re close to succeeding.

Alicia nods slowly.

Alicia: Their aliases didn’t help, then……

Mbeke:……. I suppose not.

He can already see where this is leading.

Alicia: I see. Well thankyou Mbeke…. but I have no intention of running. Not this time. I’ve worked hard to build this life and I’m finally getting somewhere.

Mbeke looks as if he’s about to say something, but is cut off.

Alicia: Yes, I know that if I stay it might put those close to me in danger. But quite frankly there’s enough shady dealing going on as it is, and I’ll be on my toes from now on for any additions to that.

Mbeke: You know, that’s just what I thought you’d say. Well good luck then, you’ll need it – I wouldn’t advise trying to get any help from your remaining contacts. Do you have the means to deal with any inconveniences?

Alicia pauses in thought as the fans wonder what the mysterious man means.

Alicia: Yes, I think I could call in a favour on that front if necessary. Any other tips, professor?

Mbeke: Oh, just one…. how long has it been since you really tested yourself out?

Alicia: Well I have matches-

Mbeke: No, no, woman. Not one of your stupid little playfights. I mean a REAL test. You should find out just how far your skills have degraded, and then set about fixing them, without delay.

She looks a little annoyed, but accepts the logic of his argument.

Alicia: I understand. I think I can arrange that.

She turns and looks at the dark skinned man with a half smile.

Alicia: You know, things aren’t supposed to happen like this. There’s supposed to be a gradual revealing of secrets, half – heard phone calls, that sort of thing…. you’ve clearly got no sense of drama.

Mbeke: Absolutely not. “Drama queens make spectacular but utterly futile exits”….. do you remember Bioletti telling us that?

Alicia: Yes, and a lot more besides. I think I’m going to need all his wisdom now more than ever.

There’s another pause; the discussion seems to have come to an end, but yet there is one more untouched topic which both have been trying to avoid, and now cannot put off any longer.

Alicia: So…… as you can’t tell me where you’re going, I guess this is goodbye.

Mbeke just continues to stare out of the window. Now that the camera has adjusted to the light a little better, we can see just how gaunt he is. When he shifts in his seat, little flickers of pain dance in his eyes, and then die away.

Mbeke: Oh we both know where I’m going, princess. The medication stopped working properly about 9 months ago, so it’s just a question of who or what leads the reaper to me first.

He hands her something that he’s been holding all this time; a thin file of papers.

Mbeke: That’s all I was able to collect before coming here…. it might be of some use. I certainly have no need of it, not any more.

A look of anger and despair flits across his face.

Mbeke: Part of me accepts that I deserve this, but that doesn’t make it any easier. I understand now why they looked at us the way they did, though…..

Alicia is quiet, unreadable thoughts passing through her mind.

Alicia: Do you still see them, Mbeke? In your dreams?

Silence.

Mbeke:……..No.

Alicia:……………Me neither.

The silence, now, is almost unbearable.

Mbeke: Perhaps that’s what they were afraid of, all along…..

Alicia remains quiet, locked in her internal thoughts; when she turns her head again, she is alone.

In more ways than one.

End segment.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Closet Protest part 2 (Credit: Jonny / Gooey)

The scene opens with Jonny leaning against the door on his forehead with his hands on the door as he still attempts to get Gooey to come out.

Jonny: Gooey, Gooey, Gooey. Gooey.......Gooey come on out now, I told you there's nothing I can do to alter the stipulation of our match. I can't do this alone. Just come on out, we'll do our thing come back, go in go out scenario. Neh?

Gooey: No, this is pure injustice and I will not come out until our voice is heard.

Jonny: Any plans to do that in a closet?

Gooey: Of course, I have here an architect map of the building and Ginger's office is actually not too far from here, so if I yell loud enough-

Jonny: Then he won't care and ignore you.

Gooey: Why are you so bereft of hope?

Jonny: Why are you being such a pussy-bitch?

Gooey: Because our world is not fair. The logic behind our universe is all flip-flop, power is granted to those of high authority and those of common sense and small simple voices are brushed off like some simple ant. I plan on altering our branch of power.

Jonny: Okay, that was a nice little statement, but you're missing the facts. The facts are that, Ginger’s being a dick. He hates us. We work for him and agreed to it. He has that power cause he's our boss. And you are coming out of that closet whether you like it or not.

Gooey: Just try me.

Jonny bends down to one knee and reaches into his pocket for a round flat object.

Jonny: Alright Gooey. Here I have a really shiny Canadian dime-

Gooey: Aw shit....

Jonny: And I'm going to leave it right in front of the crack of this door. Now I doubt that your chubby little fingers can fit through to grab it, which leaves one option.

A click is heard from the door and it slowly creaks open to reveal Gooey peeking his head from the open slit to look down at the dime and reaches down and picks it up

Gooey: Okay, so I got the dime. Now what?

Jonny signals to Gooey to hold on and reaches into his pocket, without warning he tosses another shiny coin across the room and looks at Gooey with raised eyebrows, Gooey can't hold his firm face anymore and looks at Jonny with a face that says, "Why are you doing this?"

Gooey: You're such a prick....

Without any further words Gooey walks in the direction of the coin and out of camera view. At the same time Jonny keeps an eye on Gooey until he has his back turned to use this time to swiftly go into the closet and back out with a steel bat. With a full downward swing he breaks the handle right off the door which startles an alarmed Gooey

Jonny: Well now, shall we prepare?

Gooey: Now that is dirty, you know I can't stand money on the ground.

Jonny: It's about knowing their weaknesses.

Jonny taps his index finger to the side of his head with a devilish grin as the scene fades out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 5: TNT vs. V-3

The next match has some of the longer term fans excited, as one of ACW’s early heroes is set to make a guest appearance.

Philip: The next match is set for one fall……..introducing first, from Las Vegas, V3!

”One Mic” by Nas sends the crowd off into a loud nostalgic cheer as V3 walks out. He looks to be in good shape, and seems pleased at the crowd’s hearty welcome; he jogs down to the ring, and takes the opportunity to get up on the ropes and survey the crowd as he waits for his opponent.

Philip: And now approaching the ring, from Chicago Illinois……the real F’n Deal, TNT!

The crowd boos loudly as “Never Enough” heralds TNT’s arrival. TNT walks to the ring with a cocky swagger; clearly he expects an easy ride here. V3 just smiles and lets TNT show off; he’s seen this sort of behavior many times before, and fully intends to slap the smirk off of TNT’s face.

Bell Rings.

TNT walks around a stationary V3; the mics don’t pick up what he’s saying, but it’s unlikely to be complimentary. V3 waits for the right moment and then leaps forward; TNT counters by whipping V3 away from him, but V3 reverses the whip and sends TNT to the ropes instead. TNT hits them and comes back – V3 goes for a spinning heel kick, which TNT sidesteps. TNT’s about to taunt his opponent, but V3 lands on one foot and immediately jumps into a second using the other, which TNT fails to anticipate. TNT staggers backward, and V3 follows up with the Samurai shot to a loud pop from the crowd. This time TNT can’t stay on his feet, and V3 uses a flipping leg drop before pinning; his thoroughness means that the pin gets slightly more than a 2 count, and serves as a rude awakening for TNT himself. The crowd starts a “V – 3!” chant to further irritate TNT; V3 moves in with a burst of snapping kicks, but TNT puts on some speed of his own and gets out of the way to apply a rear chinlock. V3 struggles to get out as TNT talks trash to him, trying to unsettle his foe, and V3 does look annoyed as he gets out; he makes a rash charge, and is met by TNT’s Perfect dropkick. TNT poses and taunts the crowd before covering; he gets a 2 count. The crowd gets louder in its disapproval of TNT, and this continues as TNT performs his elevated 3.0 backbreaker; TNT pins a second time, looking more confident, but V3 gets his arm up just after the 2, and TNT looks just a little concerned for a second as the pair separate. This concern proves to be well founded, as V3 doesn’t stay away from TNT for long – he nips behind TNT, smacks him in the back to send him to the mat face first, and then locks on his Invertigo submission as the crowd cheers enthusiastically.

TNT has to fight for a good 30 seconds before V3 releases the hold, and both his restrained limbs ache as he gets up; V3 again refuses to give TNT any recovery time and locks up, holding TNT in position as he kicks repeatedly at TNT’s weakened leg. TNT breaks out and strikes V3 across the face; he tries to move around for his german suplex, but his mobility has been compromised just a little, which is all V3 needs. He keeps track of TNT and blocks his attempt at a normal suplex to use his own powerslam; as TNT lies on the mat, V3 runs to the corner and signals for the Ragin’ Azn, which delights the crowd. He takes flight and strikes TNT sweetly; TNT has to draw on his accumulated stamina to kick out before the 3 count. The fans are now getting excited, hoping for a massive upset, and V3 is ready to show his hand; he gives TNT a few more kicks before lifting him up for the Triple Inverter. He’s incredibly close to pulling it off, but TNT fights back at the last second so that V3 can’t execute the move smoothly, and he ends up dropping TNT roughly to the mat; TNT gets up as fast as he can and goes all – out on V3, battering him with brutal punches until his head reels. He increases the damage with an overhead belly to belly suplex, and makes a pin; it earns him a 2.5, and TNT stamps on V3 a couple of times before hurrying to the corner. He climbs up, preparing for the Air TNT – but as he’s about to jump he sees V3’s muscles tense. Realising that V3 is likely to roll, TNT jumps – but instead of going for the full splash he lands in a crouching position, unseen by V3 who has indeed rolled over on to his front. TNT stands and measures his trajectory, and V3 has no time to even realize the danger as TNT runs in and nails the RKO. TNT makes the pin, and the referee counts 1,2,3.

Philip: Here is your winner……….TNT!

The fans boo as TNT gets up; TNT is sweating, and gives V3 a piece of his mind as he exits the ring. V3 stands and watches him go; he’s disappointed at the loss, but he’s forced TNT to work for the victory here and shown that he still has what it takes to compete at a high level in ACW.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Brotherly Love (Credit: RDK / TNT)

TNT continues to taunt to the crowd and struts up the ramp to backstage as his music plays and the camera follows him backstage....

...he walks back and suddenly gets hit by a two by four by a guy on a motorized wheelchair, and the two by four snaps right in half and TNT is on the ground holding his exposed ribs...as the crowd roars and cheers.

For the man on the wheelchair is none other then Julien, Randy Dallas Kanyon's Older Brother...

...The Crowd Erupts even more...

...Julien rolls over to TNT and yells at him...

Julien: This is what you get!! This is what you get for messing with my younger Brother!! I'm about to get rid of you so my brother doesn't have to listen to you run your mouth any more.

TNT is holding his ribs as Julien holds up what’s remaining of the two by four and lifts it up like he’s about to jam it into TNT's Face.....

...Julien thrusts down but TNT rolls out of the way and gets up as quick as a cat...

...TNT out maneuvers Julien and gets behind Julien's wheelchair, he then does his perfect dropkick right to the back of the head of Julien and Julien falls out of his chair and holds his head on the ground...

...The crowd moans in disgust...

...TNT adds insult to Injury as he stands over the fallen Julien and slaps him while talking trash, which gives the crowd a big more reason to hate TNT's guts.

TNT: You son of a bitch, I'm T-N-T, you're below my stature and so is your piece of crap brother!

TNT Slaps him in the back of the head...

...Suddenly RDK comes running and comes into the scene as the crowd goes wild....

RDK: What the hell have you done brudah!! TNT, you son of a bitch!

TNT being the smart man he is backs away from the enraged RDK and smiles.

TNT: That will be your fate if any one of your family or you, steps up to me!

With that, TNT runs off as RDK runs right after him but RDK returns to tend to his brother.

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Pre-Show Announcement (Credit: DD)

The crowd are fully relaxed, but Immigrant Song unexpectedly hits and Biff Taylor comes out to the shock of the crowd! He slowly struts to the ring, slightly mocking Vince McMahon and the crowd go nuts for this. He then waits in the ring, and makes his announcement.

Biff: 'Sup dudes and dudettes?

The crowd go nuts again, and slowly dies down. But before Biff can speak again, a chant of his name circles around the arena. He smiles for a couple of seconds as they die down.

Biff: So like I was sayin', last Fallout I was away on a business trip. That means that I'm here, on Meltdown to announce the pre-show matches!

Crowd cheers

Biff: First off...we are going to see a Junior Title defence...Anthony Kalb against an unknown opponent...

The crowd slightly cheer this

Biff: But the main event, and a gimmick placed on the match by Mr. Stanton, will be in one corner: Felix Santana Senior, Felix Santana Junior, Glamour Boy, James Beau, Daniel Ness and Kevin Fitsharris...

The crowd don't like the sound of these names being mentioned, and they are immediateyl booed at.

Biff: And they will be facing Steve McMichaelson, Daunte Thomas, Gary, Brian Carnage, El Froggy Mask and yours truely, Biff Taylor in a 6-on-6 elimination match!

The crowd go absolutely bonkers at this announcement. Biff smiles, but places the microphone to his mouth one last time.

Biff: And if the Rebellion win...I give up my General Manager's position to Fitsharris.

The crowd boo. They expect an alternative from the Fallout GM, only it doesn't come. Instead, Immigrant Song hits again and Biff leaves to a lot of cheers, but some fans wondering what will happen to Fallout at the Omega Effect Pre-Show...

Fade Out.