Thursday Night Meltdown 14/07/2005 take 2(!)

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Respect – but only just (Credit: Rose) (RP Submission)

"From Obedience and submission comes all our virtues, and all sin is comes from self-opinion." --- Michel De Montaigne

The never-ending ocean of humanity has engulfed our perpetually blue world like a soulless cancer. Everywhere a man travels, he is able to smell the sickening stench of humanity’s tribulations and he is able to witness these troubles in their full terrifying reality, but despite the initial shock, he doesn’t care. There are long forgotten children, who have never known a caring embrace, are slowly starving in ghastly corners of cities both near and far that are alien to love and nobody cares about their fate. In seemingly far away lands, madmen are butchering young men, fragile women, helpless children, brittle grandparents, and innocent grandchildren. They batter and rape their victims with blatant disregard for their age or sex and the tragically hilarious thing is that nobody really cares about their screams. They are heartbreaking screams that by all right should shake every living being down to their very soul and they should echo in their memories for eternity, but they cause nothing more than minimal discomfort. How can a people who pride themselves in their generosity and kindness be so detached to the wellbeing of others? Surely there was a time long ago when the human race actually cared about the evils done in the world. A time before ever single member of the race was an accomplice to the darkest evils of this world. Maybe it was back before untold years of senseless violence had slowly desensitized the entire world, before innocence was a buzzword for the pornography industry. Then again, maybe humanity is simply evolving into the sick, twisted, and horribly efficient predator it was always meant to be. We are all human, therefore we are a part of this malignancy and despite all the good we believe that we posses, we cannot change the harsh reality of our place in this diseased plane. ACW is nothing but a reflection of the world we live in and the times that we have endured. So many unspeakable evils have been witnessed on this simple televisions show and at times we have been disgusted beyond simple thoughts or words. We’ve seen horrid acts of violence and even murder passed off for simple entertainment and even though our disgust may still linger, we still watch and we are still entertained. We are a cancer. The thousands of fans who are now cheering and jeering all throughout the ACW arena are nothing more than an unsightly and blood thirsty tumor. They have come to see nothing more than the suffering of others and they will undoubtedly get what they want…

Because Alpha Championship Wrestling always submits to the darkest desires of it’s fans…for better…and for worse.

“Hepsin Senin Mi” hits and their animalistic urges spill forth from deep within their very souls. They let out barbaric yawps and raise their hands in the air in a beastly manner. The mostly male audience is hyped up on their own uncontrollable levels of testosterone and a near pack mentality controls all of their actions. This pack mentality originated in the deepest depths of man’s primordial past and it has thrived in the human psyche ever since. They adhere to this pack mentality for the simple reason that they are afraid of their own frailty. Yet for all their strengths, they are a pack without an Alpha and as such they lack direction. Any skilled man or woman could come out from the back now and could control them as one controls an animal; with harsh language and even harsher discipline. They yearn to be controlled by an able hand and it remains to be seen whether that is even possible. The first person to come out from behind the curtain is the charismatic Shawn Kiev; he is wearing an impressive looking ivory suit and he wields a microphone in his sinister hand. The fans see him as either a man of destiny, who has a plan for every occasion or the architect of a very elaborate charade. He quickly scans the beastly masses with his deep green eyes that are very familiar to the rabid ACW fans. He stands at the base of the ramp and patiently awaits the arrival of his accomplished client. Sakina Khalida comes out next clad in a simple black pantsuit and a matching black Al-Amira style hijab that covers the majority of her head. Some fans view her with respect and admiration, but many cannot hold back there overt sexual feelings for her. Man is an animal so this is animalistic lust is both natural and understandable. Some of the other fans hate her for reasons that they do not fully know and it is a hatred that has been bred in them since the earliest moments of their conception. It is simple ignorant hatred of her way of life, but even they cannot deny her charm. She is very beautiful despite having a modesty that is uncharacteristic to this business, but maybe her modestly only enhances her appeal. Sakina takes in every single response she gets from this nearly demonic crowd and her reaction can be seen from her deep enigmatic brown eyes. She is flattered by the positive reactions and she is deeply hurt by the negative ones, but she does not let those control her generally upbeat mood. She walks slightly ahead of Kiev and gently waves at the untamed animals all along the way. Kiev has become very jaded when it comes to these beasts and only manages a smile when Sakina whispers something appropriately sweet into his ear. They make it to the ring and like a true southern gentleman; Kiev holds the ropes open for his lovely, yet fierce cohort. They walk to the center of the ring and exchange a few quick words. The fans try to start a few chants during this time, but non of them really catch on……they lack direction, as usual. Sakina and Kiev stand side by side as the music stops and it looks as if Kiev is ready to address the ACW fans.

Kiev: Tonight is a very special night in Sakina’s budding career. It is a night and a match that will not be soon forgotten by either of us….regardless of the outcome. Tonight Sakina will face the greatest challenge thus far of her near immaculate career when she takes on The Senator and Vinnie Dulario in a triple threat match. I promise you that it will be a match that is a little different from anything that you have ever seen before on Thursday Night Meltdown. I have always been honest to Sakina about her chances and even I will admit that the odds are against her. There are far too many intangibles in this match and it will be fought and won on pure instinct alone. Sakina is good, but her opponents are very, very good as well. We’ve watched tape after tape, event after event, and match after match of both of them. We have methodically dissected every single part of their careers in preparation for this night.

Kiev pauses for a second and takes a deep breath of the foul tasting stale air that engulfs the ring and he nearly gags on it. He turns slightly to look at Sakina and they have a deep conversation using only their eyes. Sakina doesn’t look like she is enjoying herself in the ring like she normally would….she almost looks as if she is sick to her stomach. There are a few liquored up fans who try to break through security during this very brief pause, but nothing ever comes from it. Sakina watches on with her proverbial butterflies in her stomach as Kiev continues his diatribe.

Kiev: I’ll start with The Senator, Mr. Steve Phillips. I have absolutely nothing but respect for everything you’ve accomplished in this ring and I know that you are one of the greatest mat wrestlers that this business has ever seen. Your knowledge of hold and counter hold is something to be feared, as well as respected. Your place in wrestling history is firmly cemented and I have no doubt that you will some day be widely considered a legend within this industry…

Kiev pauses ever so slightly to absorb the very intense and very verbal. The fans have little if any respect for The Senators athletic ability and they hate him simply because they hear other people booing his name. The headless scourge tries to start a chant, but it doesn’t exceed beyond the planning phase. Kiev turns to Sakina slightly and makes some sort of humorous comment that garners a slight giggle, but it doesn’t really improve her mood. Kiev does not freeze for long and is quick to continue with his barely interrupted rant.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Kiev: I hope I am dead by that day. You are nothing but a shameful example of what success does to some people. You’ve let all your success slowly corrupt you to the point where you think that you are bigger than our business. All your success has caused you to become so very afraid. You dread the day when you will no longer have your precious spotlight, don’t you? You dread a day when the only response that the name Steve Phillips garners is…..Oh, you mean THAT old guy… They won’t remember you as a man who did what was best for the business; they will remember you as a selfish has-been who held onto his spot for too long. You are so afraid of losing your spot that you’ve surrounded yourself with some of the best wrestlers…….and sluts….that this business has ever seen. Tonight….you’ll get your chance to defend your spot and this time, you may just lose it. All your money and all your skill can only delay the inevitable, because someday soon, time will catch up with you. You should simply accept the fact that you are a part of the past and Sakina Khalida is the future. Now---

Kiev‘s anger filled speech is suddenly interrupted by wild disordered screams and chants of the cult like fans. It has reached the point where their chants are not even audible and instead it is like a huge roar from one huge animal. It is awesome, deafening, and scare all at the same time. To the side of the ring, Sakina is looking more green around the gills every second and it is obvious that she is about to regurgitate or something. Kiev sees this and looks very worried, so he tries to finish up his speech as fast as possible.

Kiev: Will you people shut up and let me finish! I would like to continue to with my other opponent, but lets face it, he’s a never was. For all Mr. Dulario’s talent and all of his potential, what has he really accomplished in ACW? In little more than a month Sakina has accomplished more than he has in his entire time here. He is a prime example of a piece of talent with all the tools in the world, but none of the heart that is needed to make use of his talents. I could be wrong….maybe he will shock the world tonight, but for some reason I don’t think he will. It is a shame and a travesty that he will never be more than enhancement talent for a federation that is filled with people who aren’t good enough to lace his boots. Surprise me Vinnie…….please…please show me what brought you to the dance. I want to say that The Senator and Mr. Dulario are nothing more but stepping stones on Sakina’s path to greatness, but I cannot because I respect their talent so very much… I don’t guarantee victory by my client even though I think more of her than I think of anybody else…. Tonight….let the dice fall where they may…

“Hepsin Senin Mi” hits and Kiev quickly rushes over to Sakina to see how she is feeling. She looks so very weak and Kiev holds the ropes for her as she slowly walks out of the ring. On their way back to the backstage area, he gently holds her hand and makes sure she is not seriously ill. Her sickness is apparent to all the fans in the arena that see her and yet they simply don’t care.

Fade out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: The Boy Is Mine (Credit: Rena)

The camera opens to show Rena, tapping her nails on the bench in a locker room. She seems uneasy, and is waiting impatiently for someone to appear. As the door opens, she stands to look more formal in the entrance of the area. She smiles once he has fully stepped into the room, with a shocked expression plastered on his face. He sways a little, still clearly less than 100% sober.

Latino: Wha….? What do you want? Look, I heard what happened between you and BK, and I’m not—

Rena: You think I’d want you?

She lets out a small laugh, then composes herself.

Rena: What I want is to have some fun in ACW, don’t you?

Latino: Sure, depends on what you mean.

She moves towards him, shoving him against the door. She smiles and moves to his face and whispers in his ear.

Rena: You know what I mean…

Latino: I don’t think you understand. I’m just married…

She slaps him playfully and giggles.

Rena: I’m not here to fuck you, you pervert…I’m here for a match.

Latino lets out a small sigh of relief and tries to straighten up.

Latino: Oh- well what do you want?

Rena: A Fun In The Sun match. It’s like a brawl at the beach….but ACW style. You in?

Latino: I don’t know…it seems sort of, girly to me…

She pushes him back against the door.

Rena: You don’t want to be wrestling in a pool with little ol’ me, while I’m wearing nothing…but this?

She begins to strip, revealing a sexy brown thong bikini with pink trim and a pink belt wrapped around the loops of her bottom. She turns around and smiles backwards at him, getting satisfaction at his wandering eyes. She moves back towards him and begins kissing him. For a second Latino starts to let go, but then snaps (albeit woozily) back into the present, and he pushes her away.

Latino: I SAID, I just got married!

Rena: So what!?

She throws him towards the ground and straddles him; Latino’s sense of direction isn’t the best, but he begins to squirm away from her and make his way up, pressing himself helplessly against a locker. He grabs her hips, ostensibly to force her further away, but hesitates and gives a gentle squeeze, holding her a little tighter. With different instincts shouting for attention in his already throbbing head, he is about to push her off when-

??: What the hell?

Latino pushes Rena aside, her gasping when she hits the floor.

Latino: Chula, it’s not what it looks like!

Rena: Yes it is…

Rena gets up and begins to sniffle a bit.

Rena: He called me to his locker room to discuss a match-up, and then he pushed himself on me. I tried to move away, but he wouldn’t leave me alone… I’m so sorry you married a cheating loser.

She gets up and tries to move out of the room, but AK is standing in her path, her eyes flashing a mixture of flame and ice.

AK: I know that you like to manipulate events too, Rena…

Rena: I’m telling you the truth!

Latino: Mami, you know me! She pushed herself on me. I can’t even see straight right now….

AK looks at Latino, then back at Rena. She smiled, then clenches her teeth and raises her hand, slapping Rena’s face so hard that Rena stumbles aside.

AK: Look at him! He’s not even in a fit state to pull a Christmas cracker, let alone ACW’s resident Madam!

Rena: Oh, you bitch!

Now livid, she knocks over AK, and they begin rolling around on the ground, pulling and pushing at each other.

Rena: That’s my hair!

AK: Sure about that? It feels more like a cheap wig to me!

Latino rushes to get them apart, but they are moving so quickly that he falls over them. His panic turns very briefly into arousal when the two women tumble around with him in the locker room, before the nausea kicks in again.

Latino: Stop it!

His shout does little, until Rena yells.

Rena: MY EYE!

Latino: Sorry…The Latino one can’t stay down forever.

The three at last separate; AK lifts herself on to her knees, not sure who to be angry at first, and then points to the door.

AK: OK, that does it. You, OUT!

Rena pushes herself up, and stomps out of the room.

AK: I swear, she was THIS close to me really hurting her, the idiot….. come on, let’s get you up on the couch.

AK starts to pick Victor up; his apologies become fainter as the camera leaves the room. Outside, Rena is walking down the hall.

Rena: Fucking bitch…

Fade out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 5: Wyvern vs. Predator - FlashBack Series Match #2 (Credit: Angelo)

The Cameras zoom through the crowd and then swing to Philip who is in the ring for the next matchup.

Philip: Ladies and Gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall, and is match number two of the ACW Flashback series! First, hailing from Winnipeg, Canada weighing in at 220 pounds. P-r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r—edator!!!

"Metallingus" by Alter Bridge starts up on the P.A. as Predator makes his way out to boos. Predator just makes his way down to the ring. He gets in the ring and awaits his opponent.

Philip: And his opponent, from Tacoma, Washington. He is the FORMER International Champion, WYVERN!

The crowd explodes into laughter from what Philip said but once “Getting smaller” hits the crowd is just filled with boos. Way louder then the reaction Predator got as Wyvern makes his way down looking very angry at Philip. Wyvern slides into the ring as the bell sounds.

The Bell Rings.

Predator and Wyvern circle around the ring and Wyvern intimidate him by faking an attack towards him making Predator flinch and fall down. He scurries into the corner then pulls himself up slowly. Wyvern fakes running at Predator and he jumps over the top rope and off the apron as quickly as he can. Wyvern is just standing there in the ring laughing as the ref tells Predator to get back in. Predator slowly slides in but Wyvern runs and stomps on Predator with his legs still dangling. Ref counts and is at 4 when Wyvern stops. Predator pulls himself in then uses the ropes to get up. They grapple up and Wyvern delivers a knee to the gut of Predator. He whips him across the ropes but Predator dives down and slides in between Wyverns legs. Predator comes towards him and they lock up again. Wyvern hits an uppercut and then applies a chin lock. Predator tries reversing but cant, and Wyvern just lets go after a while. Wyvern kicks Predator in the gut then DDT’s him down. Wyvern wants to end this and he sets Predator up for a double underhook piledriver but Predator tries to save himself as he wraps his legs around Wyverns neck and squeezes. Wyvern is about to drop with Predator too, but he has more strength. Predator pulls himself up onto Wyverns shoulders, in a powerbomb position but Predator pulls him down into a X-Factor like move. Predator uses this time to catch his breath as some of the crowd is behind Predator rather than Wyvern. Predator quickly goes to the top rope and awaits Wyvern. He stands and Predator goes for a missile dropkick and it connects fully. Wyvern slowly gets up as Predator is already up. Predator runs towards him but it kicked in the gut. Wyvern purposely throws Predator into the ref, knocking him down. Wyvern smiles then climbs out of the ring. He look sat Philip then throws him out of his chair and folds it. He takes some steps backwards then turns around the chair up to his face going to throw it into the ring as a chorus of boos start but Predator runs and baseball slides the chair right into Wyverns face. Wyvern flies back and hits the announcer table. Predator picks up Wyvern and throws him into the ring. Predator rests the chair up against the apron. Wyvern gets up and walks towards Predator who has his back to him on the apron and then suddenly Predator swings the chair backwards right onto the top of Wyvern’s face.

Predator drops the chair then goes back into the ring. Predator uses this time to his advantage and is starting to do what ever he can to put Wyvern away. Predator takes the protective padding off of the top turnbuckle. It’s taking him a while then he finally gets it off and throws it to the mat. Wyvern is up and sees Predator in the corner. He catches Predator off guard and Predator looks scared stiff when he sees Wyvern running at him but he goes down into a drop toe hold and Wyvern goes flying down and on the way down smacks his heads on the exposed turnbuckle. Wyvern turns to the side and is now sitting down against the turnbuckle with his legs open. Predator goes to the other side of the ring and runs looking for a baseball slide to Wyverns groin. Wyvern was playing possum and pulls the rope, then sliding out of the ring as Predator connects fully with the steel post. Wyvern goes over and grabs the legs of Predator. Predator begs and begs but Wyvern pulls him hard into the post. Wyvern grabs the legs and sets it up then drops down and Predator screams as Wyvern is doing an inverted figure four with the ring post helping. Predator is screaming and tapping mercifully and the ref is now seen on the other side of the ring slowly getting up. He goes over and tells Wyvern to break it and begins a count. He breaks at four as Predator tries getting out of that position quickly. Wyvern taunts the crowd then climbs the steel steps and enters the ring. Predator is laying on his stomach and in the refs view of sight, he doesn’t see this happen as Wyvern tries picking Predator up and Predator kicks the leg back into a low blow. Predator gets up and grabs the arm of Wyvern and tries to pull him down into a Predator Crossface but Wyvern is holding his ground then hooks his leg behind Predators, then punches him with his free hand. He pulls one of Predators arm off of his then with his other hand, over powers Predator and punches him in the gut with his and Predators hand. Wyvern puts himself in an uncomfortable position by using his free arm by pulling it over his head grabbing Predators then forcefully brings him down into a Corrosion. Wyvern grabs his arm then grabs the legs of Predator as he locks in the Dues Ex Machina as Predator taps very quickly and Wyvern doesn’t break it. Then he finally does as the bell sounds.

Philip: Here uhh……is your winner by submission…Wyvern!

“Getting Smaller” hits with Wyvern making his way to the back flicking people off and Predator slowly returning to his feet.

Scene cuts to commercial.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Hired Help (Credit: Rena)

Senator: I have another surprise for you.

Rena smiled, kissing him again. She began dressing herself again in the Senatorial office, where they spent yet another 3 hours again. She laughed and unlocked the door as the both finished putting their clothes on.

Rena: You do?

Senator: Yes, I do.

She kissed him again, and sat on the couch.

Rena: What is it?

Just then, a blond woman stepped through the door. She smiled sweetly, and seemed pleased to be here.

??: Hello, I’m Alexis!

Rena: Alexis? Do I know you?

Senator: This is your new assistant…I think you needed one to help you with your daily tasks.

Rena looked at Senator with puzzlement, but shook her head and smiled.

Rena: Thanks.

She turned towards Alexis.

Rena: Ready to do anything?

Alexis: Sure!

Rena: Good. Go take this box to Sakina Khalida…can you do that for me?

Rena handed Alexis the white box with golden ribbon tied neatly and elegantly around the beautiful package. The box started the make a buzz noise, and began to shake in a low sonic movement. Rena frowned and hit it a couple times.

Rena: Be careful with that…

Alexis: I will….

Alexis turned around, in pure puzzlement, and headed down the corridor. Alexis moved quickly, but stopped beside a man to ask directions.
Alexis: umm...could you help me? I don’t know where Sakina Khalida is, and I need to find her for Miss Rena.

??: Why do you need to do something for that slut?

Alexis: Because I’m her assistant…

??: Oh I’m sorry. I’m TNT and—

Alexis: I’m Alexis.

TNT: Her locker room is just around there.

She smiled, thanked him and then ran towards the way her pointed.

TNT: Damn… sometimes I just love this place.

Fade out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: The Pimpingest Sage in the Greater Montgomery Area (Credit to: Kiji, Ridley, Rose)

The doors of the El Dorado slam shut with a salvo of thumps and its occupants step out into a dreary scene: the sky is overcast, rain occasionally drizzling down like the runny nose of an ailing cloud; the surroundings are as squalid as ever, with overflowing trashcans and the tired, grimy faces of buildings staring at them through the gloom. A dog barks somewhere, incessantly. Ridley sets to work removing the vehicle's license plates, screwdriver in hand. A few moments later, he has them.

Pausing a moment, Ridley takes one of the license plates and hurls it like a discus thrower with all his might, over a seven-foot high concrete wall. The barking dog yelps and falls silent. Kiji claps his hands, slowly; Ridley begins bending the other license plate first one way, then another, until the metal weakens enough that the plate can be broken apart. He leans over next to the Cadillac's wheels and throws the halves of the plate down a storm drain. Then he checks the gun he took off Crimson to make sure the magazine's full, slides it back into his trenchcoat, and nods to the waiting Rose and Kiji, who look wistfully at the car and then at the rain, which is beginning to pour down more steadily around them.

Ridley: Yeah, I know. But it's not good to be seen joyriding in the vehicle of a dead man, especially one who was as well-known as Crimson was. So we're walking until we can find a place to stay for the rest of the night. As I'm sure you've gathered, these streets aren't exactly friendly at night.

Without another word, he turns and steps into a side alley, fading into the shadows with a certain practiced grace. Kiji and Rose look at each other for a second, then fall in behind and follow the One Man Holocaust through the darkness. He slows, allowing them to catch up with him, and barely hears Rose's voice for the constant pounding of the rain on the trash cans and assorted rubble in the alleyways.

Rose: You never answered my question earlier.

Ridley: I should think, Alexandra, that any questions you had would have obvious answers. Considering what happened at Omega Effect, and my words afterwards, I think it naturally follows that I'd be heading here to pull the problem out by the root, wouldn't it? The more interesting question, I think, is what YOU'RE doing here without any justification whatsoever--

Rose: I beg to differ. You saw perfectly well what that lecherous brute, that...

Ridley: Galder. Swine drunk on his own power, to the point where he can't see himself choking on his own vices.

Rose: ...Galder, then, intended to do. It was obvious that they were ready to kill me as much as they were to kill you; wouldn't you agree?

Ridley: I'd say they'd have more qualms about killing me, as Drakul needs me alive if he wants to fulfill his little prophecy. Those two most likely wouldn't have hesitated to spill your blood all over that hallway, and I can't say I would've minded.

Rose: Well, that's reassuring.

She shuts up as he holds up a hand, motioning for complete silence. Slowly, Ridley's khukri knives slide from their sheathes, and he presses his back against the wall, sliding with the utmost caution towards the corner of the alley. Kiji draws a pistol follows behind, looking alert as always, and Rose somewhat-reluctantly tiptoes behind them. There's a pause as Ridley listens carefully for any sounds around the corner; it's evident that he's already heard something suspicious. A long, torturous moment passes with complete silence, except for the sound of crackling flames. Deciding to make the first move, the Prophet whips around the wall, both knives coming to bear...

....and he relaxes as his eyes fall upon the figures in the adjacent alley. A group of women are huddled around one of the ubiquitous flame-spouting barrels, sheltered from the rain by an awning but still obviously cold, as their attires leave little to the imagination. However, it's the man leaning against the wall opposite the cluster of femininity that's caught Ridley's eyes, and his knives quickly find their homes again as he steps forward and motions to Rose and Kiji to come out of hiding.

?: Well, as I live and breathe. They said you were back...

The man closes the rest of the distance between himself and the Archangel of Suffering, making his features plainly visible. His face would be obscured by the massive brim of his heavily-plumed hat, except it's pulled back just far enough to make out the dark strip of an eyepatch covering his left eye. This individual, at least in Rose and Kiji's eyes, has the dubious distinction of being the first local they've met who ISN'T wearing a trenchcoat; indeed, the sleeves of his mesh shirt prove to be the only thing voluminous and trailing about his attire. As it stands, said sleeves are hiding the newcomer's hands as he clasps them at his stomach. Ridley's eyes scan over this mysterious individual, and then he shakes his head with no small measure of surprise.

Ridley: Rotting Christ. Do you NEVER age?

?: Should I? Time enough to age when one's dead, I'd think.

The two are up close right now, nearly nose to nose, glaring into each other's eyes...or eye, in the stranger's case.

Ridley: And you still haven't gotten there? Who'd you pay?

?: Well...let's just say they need me to keep the commerce flowing around here.

The last sentence breaks the tension with an all-too-familiar smirk, and both men grin before embracing with a hearty slap on the back. Ridley steps back after a second and scrutinizes the newcomer just a little more carefully.

Ridley: Of all the people I expected to see when I walked into the Inner City...I'm ashamed to admit you weren't one of them, Balthasar. Don't ask why; I suppose I just figured you'd be dead and gone by now.

Balthasar: I know too much, Malachi; is that it? Too much to be considered "safe" by anyone in the city?

Ridley: Sometimes I wonder.

Seeing that the brigand is apparently friendly, Ridley's companions relax their guard a bit. Rose tentatively steps up next to Ridley, still leaving him slightly between her and Balthasar, as Kiji holsters his sidearm and saunters over to the flaming barrel where he instantly becomes the object of the women's attention, with his youthful good looks. Ridley casts him a glance, then chuckles as he looks back to his old friend.

Ridley: You still deal in human life, eh? No moral compunctions yet?

Balthasar: I refer to my thoughts on aging as far as moral compunctions go, and you know that. Some slaves here, some whores there, it's a decent living. The drug trade is at an all-time low, though, because of the monopoly.

Ridley: The WHAT?

Balthasar: The Crypt, man, the Crypt. A lot can happen in ten years, you know. They've got the police wrapped around Drakul's little finger, and just about everybody's exports get cracked down on unmercifully, except the "legitimate" bullshit the Crypt does. Supposedly, the entire right wing of the Omni Complex--

Ridley: You mean the "vehicular construction and export area"?

Balthasar: See? You know it just as well as I do, and you've been gone for a decade! Those bastards ship all their hard drugs out after packing them in the cars they're supposed to be selling and remodeling. It's a motherfucking monopoly is what it is. King would never have allowed THIS!

Ridley: Yes...I'll drink to that. As much as I detest the Crypt, King was indeed a man of honor; I doubt he'd have been too thrilled with Drakul's ambitions at this kind of scale. Monopolizing like that will only galvanize the lesser groups and clans into attacking them in concert, to ensure their own survival. If he isn't militarily prepared, I daresay he's signed the Crypt's death warrant.

Balthasar: Oh, believe me. Since I'm sure you plan on crossing them now that you're in town, let me be the first to tell you that their arsenal is positively frightening. You'll find out soon enough anyway...perhaps you should make some friends while you're in town. The Disciples of Abraxas certainly have grown lately...

At this, Ridley strokes his goatee in thought, remembering Crimson's last words.

Ridley: Yes...I notice that some of the Crypt higher-ups seem to lean towards that. Either way...stick around for a while, all right? My companions and I are going to go get some sleep, and we'll be up in the morning. I'm sure we'll find each other. You know anywhere to sleep?

Balthasar: Ehhh...the closest place you could stop is a Motel 6 down the street.

Ridley: It'll have to do, I suppose.

Balthasar: Yeah...at least they'll leave the light on for you.

End.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: The Ruined Interview (Credit: Hunter)

The scene opens in the backstage area, where Hunter is seen walking down the hallwa, proudly displaying his gold Tag Team Title around his waist. Every now and then, he puts his hand on it and rubs it, maybe in a somewhat state of awe. After all, the last time he had a title was in March. It feels good. He turns the corner and finds himself face to face with Kevin Anderson. Hunter, startled, jumps back.

Hunter: Jeez, Kevin, you scared me.

Kevin: Oh, uh, sorry. Uh...I'm hoping for an interview.

Hunter: Sure, I've got some time before my match.

Kevin: Okay...may I ask where your tag team partner is?

Hunter: Oh, I think he's back in the office. He likes to prepare himself mentally before matches.

Kevin: I see. Well, I guess we can start with that. How do you feel about your match tonight?

Hunter: Ah, tonight I have a match with Skurai. The man is a natural competitor. He is a former Entertainment and WORLD Champion. He has been able to defeat many opponents in the course of his career, and he is somewhat of a legend here in ACW. Well, if I want to propel my standings here (which I do), then it's necessary for me to defeat him. Hell, I haven't even had a match with him. This is almost a...disaster. But, regardless, when we meet in that match tonight, I WILL defeat him.

Kevin: Interesting. Well, uh, do you have any plans for Seven Deadly Sins?

Hunter: Not yet. But we'll see what happens. Maybe I'll have to defend my newly won titles.

Kevin: Well, speaking of them, how does it feel?

Hunter: Amazing. I have not had a title in almost four months. I am a two time Tag Team Champion! I am only the third person to win the titles with two different partners each time. And it feels good. I've missed these titles, and I proved to everyone on Monday that I truly am the greatest tag team wrestler alive!

The crowd give him a minor boo, as they don't like cockiness...not from Hunter anyway. He goes into a sort of pose, but it's brief. He stops and turns his attention back towards Kevin.

Hunter: Anyway...next question.

Kevin: Right. Well...uh...who do you feel is a better tag team partner: the Senator or Cage?

The sly smirk on Hunter's face disappears. The atmosphere around him becomes much darker. He hangs his head a little, and there is a long pause. He then opens his mouth and lets loose a single word.

Hunter: ...Cage...

Kevin doesn't seem to be able to notice the look on Hunter's face, so his persistence continues.

Kevin: Yes, Cage. Some say the Senator is a FAR superior wrestler and partner than Cage. What are your thoughts on this?

Hunter's face now turns into a look of pure hate, anger, and almost a look of fear. Kevin now notices, and he slowly and wisely backs away, until he is around ten feet from Hunter and he breaks into a run. Hunter watches him go, and once he disappears, Hunter hangs his head again. He lets out a deep sigh and grabs his head.

Hunter: ...Cage...

He can't help but show his emotion. Hunter has never been one to keep his emotions in. And now, like many times before, his emotions get the best of him and he erupts. He lets out a loud yell and grabs the closest thing to him (in this case a steel chair) and hurls it across the hall, barely satisfied when it lands with a loud crash. He takes another chair and starts beating the wall next to him, until he makes a small hole in it. He hurls that chair as well, which just barely misses the face of one of the backstage workers. Hunter kicks a few things, then stops and calms down.

Hunter: Fuck this. I've got a match...

It seems he's been able to get most of it out of his system, as he is able to think straight. But Skurai better be careful. Hunter and anger don't mix. And bashing a wall with a chair will not make him feel better. Maybe that's one of the reasons he began to wrestle. He walks down the hallway for his match, leaving all to wonder how far he can go.

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Watch the Ref (Credit: TNT)

The Camera is backstage and it's seemingly in Chairman Gingerdude's "Waiting room," since his attractive secretary, Carla Guerra is sitting their looking bored and she seems to be doing work.

A man walks in, dressed in an all beige suit and approaches Carla's Desk. She, still drowned in work doesn't know that he's there.

? ? ? : I'm here to see Chairman Gingerdude.

Carla (who's still looking down at her work): What's your name and I'll tell him that you're here.

? ? ? : Uh, TNT.

The camera moves up as TNT leans over resting his hands on Carla's desk, Smirking. Carla looks up to be surprised.

Carla: Well....Ahem, Mr. TNT......I...uh...don't recall you being scheduled to see Mr. Gingerdude Tonight.

TNT: Well...let’s see about that? Shouldn't we?

Meanwhile Gingerdude is in his office, writing and working. He goes to check on Carla's progress by paging her through the Intercom system and asking.

Ginger: Carla, how’s the work coming.

Carla: [No Answer]

Ginger: Carla! I said how's the work coming!

Carla: [No Answer]

Gingerdude opens the door to the Secretary's Office.

Ginger: Carla, Why the hell isn't anybody answering -

As Ginger opens the door he sees, Carla on all fours and TNT behind her with One Knee up behind her, a Hand on her elbow and his other arm grabbing her waist.

TNT: Keep your eye on the imaginary Referee.....

TNT turns his head to the side and sees Ginger behind him looking in confusion, Carla turns her head and sees ginger and immediately gets up and goes to her desk and back to work

TNT: It's not what it seems bossman, I was teaching her the correct way of an Amateur Referee's Position.

Ginger raises an eyebrow.

Ginger: Oh...That makes sense.

TNT Rolls his eyes, and looks back at Carla and winks and makes her blush.

Ginger: Anyway....what the hell are you doing here?

TNT: Huh? Uh....Well....What the hell is this I'm hearing about having some sort of a BK London vs Randy Dallas Kanyon for a Number One's Contender match?! Are you kidding me? Huh?

Ginger: Yes, That’s correct TNT, BK London vs RDK at Seven Deadly Sins for The Number 1 Contendership.

TNT: You have to be kidding me. BK London? What the hell did he do at Omega Effect? Beat some jackass that came out of nowhere, back from the dead moron who left ACW some 8 months ago?! What made it so 'Special?' huh? was it because it was a - ooooooh, Hardcore match? I'm shaking in my boots thinking about it. And RDK? What did he do last month? Let's see...that’s right...He got his Ass kicked by the Real F'n Deal, T-N-T. The Truth and the fact of the matter is, Both of them.....both of them don't deserve a ACW World Title Shot. I'll tell you who does deserve one though, you guessed it right, ME! I've been on a winning streak Ginger. I beat RDK at the biggest show of them all and in one of the greatest matches of them all. Two Jackasses last week thought they can hang with the best. Daredevil, that talentless piece of crap and his moronic Manager, WCW. They thought that they can cheat a win off of TNT? Are they crazy? Daredevil thought he can outwrestle me, WCW thought he could outsmart me, didn't happen and I pinned Daredevil One....Two....Three. Simple as That.

Ginger: Your Point is?

TNT: My point is, you might as well give me the Number One Contender Label because BK and RDK....They ain't nobody anymore. They're Has-Beens, I kicked them off the curb and they can't get back on because their fire is gone. I'm blazing hot and I have glory on my back. First Ever to hold 4 Different Titles. Not even RDK, not Even BK can say they did that. So you better get wise Ginger...because I'm a Dangerous man...and You don't want to screw me over, I guarantee you that I can beat both jackasses anytime, anywhere, any match, in a single match against one or even a match where I beat them both senseless and at the same damn...Time, and I will become the next ACW World Champion.....I've beaten Both men before...and I Can do it Again. So....Ginger...Keep that in the back of your mind......Senior.

TNT has nothing more to say, and he lets himself out of the office, leaving Ginger looking thoughtful, as the scene fades out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 6: BK London vs. Angelo Giovanni - Parking Lot Brawl (Credit: BK)

As we cut to the parking lot we see it already set up for the much anticiapted brawl with cars in circle formation. Various superstars are already seated on some of the cars to watch the brawl between the two superstars and just then "Diamonds" from Kanye West is heard through the Parking Lot as BK London drives into the lot in his hummer. BK steps out the car along with Predator and Kiley and BK walks to the center of the circle of cars. Perhaps wisely, Philip’s decided that these two need no introduction.

"Suffocate" by Finger Eleven is now heard as Angelo drives in driving his low rider, accompanied with The Capitalists. The Capitalists hop out the car along with Angelo, but BK wastes no time trying to get the upper hand as he lunges toward Angelo.

BK attacks Angelo from behind and smashes his head into the hood of his low rider, BK continues beating down Angelo with several right hands to the face before picking him up again. BK picks up Angelo in scoop slam position and drops him chest first onto the hood of his low rider again denting it. Angelo holds his chest in pain as he leans on the car and BK backs up. BK charges toward Angelo but Angelo bends over and back body drops BK onto the car. The windshield breaks on impact and BK wails in pain, Angelo hops on the top of the car before mounting over BK and punching him with several right hands. BK eventually falls off the car and he slowly begins getting up, Angelo goes into the trunk of his car and he pulls out a baseball bat from his young days as a baseball player on his high school team. BK begins to get up and Angelo strikes him in the abdomen with his bat. BK drops to one knee and Angelo goes for a finishing blow with a swing to the side of the head but BK ducks and sweeps Angelo's legs from under him. BK picks him up and begins punching Angelo, Angelo returns the favor with a right hand of his own but BK capitalizes with a swift kick to the gut of Angelo before throwing him into the car. BK hops on the hood of the car and he slowly picks up the hurt Angelo, Angelo begins fighting back and he puts BK in suplex position. It looks as if he is about to suplex BK off the car but BK shifts his weight and lands a DDT right on the hood of the car. BK hooks the leg of Angelo and the referee counts one, two, th-- but Angelo kicks out. BK can't believe it and he goes to the back of this mini-van which pours out a bunch of weapons. BK looks through it and he picks up the crowbar, he then makes his way to the front of the car where Angelo is just getting up and BK swings but Angelo rolls out of the way and BK gets the crowbar stuck in the headlights. He desperately tries to pull it out but Angelo uses this opportunity to attack BK from behind. He begins to stomp a mudhole into BK in front of the car before dragging him towards his hummer.

Angelo picks up both legs of BK and he slingshots him into the car door of his hummer, luckily the glass is too strong for it to break that easily. BK is now down on one knee and Angelo goes back for his baseball bat and then begins approaching BK with a vicious look on his face. As Angelo nears BK, BK swings open the door and Angelo falls like a sack of bricks once he gets hit by the hummer door. Angelo begins to get up again and BK runs around the car to approach Angelo from behind and he smashes Angelo's head into the door. BK rolls down the window and he pulls out the seat belt and wraps it around the neck of Angelo, choking him. BK keeps hitting Angelo with straight right hands and Angelo presses the release buttong to let him loose. BK goes into his car and he pulls out a cigarette burner and he burrows it in the head of Angelo, Angelo screams in pain and he kicks BK into the groin as an desperation move to take him out. Angelo then grabs the back of BK's head and drives him face first through the window of his car, BK falls down to his feet and he looks out of it. Angelo collapses onto BK and the referee counts one, two, th-- but BK gets his shoulder up. Angelo can't believe it and he kicks the car out of anger, Angelo now picks up BK but BK pushes him away. BK opens the door to one of the cars to try to escape but Angelo charges at the door and slams it right on the shoulder of BK. BK screams in pain and drops to the ground but Angelo isn't done with him yet. He sets BK back up in the same position as he was in and slams the door repeatedly on his shoulder. BK drops to the ground and now Angelo goes back for that bat again, this time getting it.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

BK is staggering to his feet and Angelo swings the bat at him but BK rolls out of the way and it gets stuck in the car as BK leans on the hood of the car to catch his breath. Angelo finally pulls it out and he swings at BK again but it gets stuck once more, as Angelo is trying to pull it out BK runs around the car and catches Angelo off guard with a double sledge to the groin and then BK rams Angelo's head through the window. Angelo pulls his head out and he is now busted open, BK grabs Angelo's head again and attempts to slam it though another window but Angelo stops it with his foot and he elbows BK in the abdomen. BK falls back onto the car next to him and Angelo attempts to Yakuza Kick BK's head through the car but BK side steps it and Angelo's leg gets stuck into the car. BK goes into the back of the other car and he pulls out a thin hubcap and he smashes it over the head of Angelo. Angelo is now knocked out hanging from the car with his leg stuck in it and BK pulls him out and heads to the back of the car. BK throws Angelo on the car and Angelo rolls all the way to to the top of the car breaking off some of the glass on the back, Angelo is still bloody as hell and BK plans to finish him off. BK kicks him in the gut and hits The Revolver on the hood of the car, Angelo is out cold but instead of pinning him he goes over on the ground and picks up Angelo's bat. BK plans to test it out as he hits it on the trunk of the car. Just then the trunk opens and BK's eyes widen as RDK dives out the trunk of the car. The crowd goes absolutely ga ga for RDK. RDK pummels him with right and left hands before picking him up and slamming him into the back of another car. RDK dives on the car and continues punching BK but security pulls RDK off of him and drags him out of the parking lot to much of the crowd's dismay.

BK taunts RDK as he is carried out by the security, BK turns around and Angelo dives from car to car and he tackles BK down. Angelo picks up BK and puts his head between his legs, Angelo then lifts BK up over his head in powerbomb position and dives from the top of the car down to the back window of the other car completing the Mafia Bomb Manuever. BK is out cold and the crowd goes "Ooooooooh", the camera cuts to Jonny Spade who is standing next to Predator.

Jonny: *chuckles* I'd hate to be the lucky bastard who's car that is...man that car is mangled.

Jonny continues to laugh it up before his smile turns into a frown as he recognizes the licenseplate.

Jonny: Oh shit thats my rental car !! I'm gonna kill you Angelo..

Jonny tries to go after Angelo but is held back by Predator. Back up Angelo picks up BK and rests him on the front of the car, Angelo backs up and charges toward BK but BK grabs Angelo. Angelo quickly headbutts BK and BK releases the hold, Angelo now attempts a right hand but BK ducks and hits a German Suplex on the hood. Angelo holds the back of his head and rolls onto his stomach, BK opens the door and he turns on the windshield wipers. The fluid blinds Angelo for the moment and BK knocks Angelo out with the Shades of Michaels. Angelo drops to the ground and BK covers him for the one, two, three.

BK raises his arms in the air while sitting down and he falls back to the ground, Predator celebrates BK before pulling him by his legs out the parking lot arena as the wrestlers around them applaud that fight.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: On the Wire

The camera has returned to an area already seen this evening; Latino and Atomic’s dressing / locker room. After all that’s happened, things seem to have finally calmed down, and Victor is lying flat out on the couch, sleeping off whatever cocktail of painkillers and alcohol he’s consumed previously.

Alicia’s evidently decided not to leave him alone for a second; she sits at the dressing table, re arranging a few things. From somewhere around her feet there comes a soft miaow, and Alicia smiles as she looks down.

Alicia: Richard Parker!

For a few moments the fans are confused, wondering if perhaps Rena’s not the only one fooling around; things are only slightly less confusing when the black tomcat, previously the property of Gooeygarth, hops up on to the table and sits down.

Richard Parker in fact got his new name as a result of a clerical error. Since no one was able to remember what Gooey had originally named the feline, Alicia placed a notice on the staff and roster notice board requesting suggestions. It was an enthusiastic but slightly careless video editor who mixed up the “suggestion” and “Name” columns on the form, and hence it appeared that someone named Blackie had suggested Richard Parker as the perfect moniker. The confusion caused so many laughs that the name stuck, and Richard Parker has been called so ever since…..

Alicia lets out a deep sigh, and scratches Richard Parker behind the ears. This seems to please him, and he gets up and stretches before padding across the desk (messing up all of Alicia’s sorted cosmetics, naturally) and hopping on to the narrow window ledge. As Alicia watches him, a scene is triggered in her mind. Diving into her kit bag, she pulls out a large ring – bound A4 pad and a pen, and flicks through it. It’s already over half full with writing, some crossed out and re – written; Alicia searches until she finds the part she’s looking for, and starts to review and amend what she’d already written there.

The training was always achingly hard, and there was one part I thought I’d never master. Which, if Bioletti was correct, could easily cost me my life….

“We have precious few advantages over our enemies in these situations,” he would say. “Dexterity, and balance, is a skill which you must make use of 100% of the time. Remember, these bastards never tire, but they never learn either…. only one in four of them can even climb a stable ladder, let alone do this. And trust me, this may be your only way out….. so come on, let me see what you’ve got in you! This is about your survival, dammit!”

“Oh, yeah,” grumbled Chase, “Screwing up my ankles permanently isn’t a problem, then?”

“Chase!”

“SIR, YES SIR!”

“Don’t give me any of that military crap. Just keep going.”

“YES SIR! I WILL CONTINUE WITH THIS POINTLESS EXERCISE, SIR!”

It’s really no surprise that Chase was pulled out of a Marine training facility; it’s a mark of how much Bioletti liked him (liked all of us, really) that he let him get away with odd remarks like this. And none of us truly doubted the authenticity of Bioletti’s words….. we all remembered how we’d ended up in the facility in the first place.

So we kept getting up, tottering along on the slender ropes, pace by pace, and each time we made it an extra step, it gave us the little adrenaline and serotonin boost we needed to carry on. I wasn’t one of the first to manage it, in fact it took me several hours of extra tuition in my free time to finally get the hang of it. But Bioletti never gave up, and by the time that summer was over I could walk, run, even fight on a high – wire with absolute confidence. We used those hard won skills many times, and our wires became as critical to our success as any gun or blade.

Ring ropes? For me, it’s like walking on a fallen giant redwood…….

Alicia is distracted as Latino mumbles and shifts in his sleep; Richard Parker hops back to the table and places himself on top of Alicia’s book. She smiles, and takes the hint, folding it and putting it away for now. Richard Parker wastes no time in making himself comfortable.

Alicia: Those were tough times, Richard Parker.

She looks at Latino, and her eyes show a concealed sadness.

Alicia: And so are these, in a way….. but I’ll find a way through them, you’ll see. Somehow.

She continues to stare out of the window and stroke Richard Parker as the scene fades out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Tempting Generosity (Credit: Rena / Rose)

Finally, after a long walk that is filled with brief pauses for air and some pauses to kneel down, the ill Sakina Khalida and her loyal manager make it back to their locker room. Kiev gently helps Sakina lie down on their soft cerulean couch and he looks very worried. He is worried that Sakina has made herself sick thinking about the match and she may very well have. He watches her on the couch and she is sweating profusely and actually on the verge of tears.

Kiev: It’ll be OK Kina, you just need to rest for a while, I think you’ve worried yourself sick. Don’t worry about the match, all I care about is your safety and if you are not able to go out there, then we will simply forfeit and there will be no harm done. All I care about at this point is your health…

Sakina:………….

Sakina tries to respond kindly, but she just cannot speak at this point and is probably holding her vomit in with all of her might. Kiev walks forward and devotedly stokes her forehead….trying to make everything right. They share this tender moment for a few seconds before Kiev hears a gentle knocking at their door.

Kiev: Who the----

Kiev is obviously not wanting or expecting visitors as he slams the door open. He does not get a quite the visitor he was expecting… A beautiful blond haired girl is standing in the doorway and she is holding a fancy looking white present in her hand. Kiev quickly remembers his manners and addresses the young woman.

Kiev: Yes miss---

??: I am Alexis.

Kiev: Hello Ms. Alexis, my name is Shawn Kiev, what can I do for you?

Alexis: I was asked to deliver this package to a Ms. Khalida…

Kiev: By whom?

Alexis: Ms. Rena Matheson….. I am her assistant and---

Kiev: Why did that……….did she say what was inside?

Alexis tried to be friendly, but she didn’t care much for Kiev’s tone of voice and as such, she decided to have a little fun with him… She stares behind Kiev for the first time and she sees Sakina lying sickly on the cerulean couch. Suddenly she gets an idea and smiles at Kiev with a devilish innocence…

Alexis: No, she didn’t say what was inside, but she did mention that it would help Sakina feel much much better. So, I don’t want to bother you both any longer than I have to…..

She hands Kiev the white, gold wrapped package and he unenthusiastically accepts it.

Alexis: Well…….Goodbye.

Alexis giggles to herself and then she gives out a friendly feminine wave and heads back in the direction of her boss’s locker room. Kiev shuts the door and holds the package in his hand for a second. He wonders what is inside and he is about to open it when he realizes that Sakina has been watching this whole thing.

Kiev: So, I suppose you want to open this?

Sakina tiredly nods in the affirmative and sits up under her own power for the first time since lying down. Kiev reluctantly hands her the cute little package and she opens it very slowly, due to her rather fragile state. Inside she finds a note, it reads: For A Lonely Night…

Sakina:.........

Kiev: Give me that!

He pulls the package away and begins reading the note. With an angry stare, he held the box in his hands and showed it to Sakina. As he began to open it, he let out a shocked gasp and threw it on the floor. As it hit the floor, a little vibrator popped out and rolled on the floor. Sakina kept a lot inside to try and not laugh about the ordeal, as she found it amusing, however, Kiev was furious.

Kiev: What the hell!? Does she think it's some kind of joke!? What a SLUT!

Sakina:......

Kiev: I am going to call that…. that woman , and have a personal meeting with her right now! How could she embarrass you like this!?

Sakina: She's--

Kiev: I don't care! She will not be pulling stunts like this on you like that...not while I'm around.

Sakina sighed and pulled herself up, using the arms of the couch as a support. She began to walk out of the room, when Kiev stopped her.

Kiev: Kina, where are you heading?

Sakina: I have to go and walk...to make me feel better.

Kiev: Oh, Ok. Well be careful. I'm going to have a talk with that Rena, don't worry.

Sakina turned around and shook her head, annoyed and in physical pain. She moved very slowly to the door, and looked back. Kiev was already on the phone, screaming at someone, but it didn't seem to be Rena. She pushed herself into the hallway, and slammed the door shut.

Alexis: How come you're outside? I thought you were sick....

Sakina hesitates before speaking; she’s still very shy, but knows that not to do so would appear extremely rude.

Sakina: I… I am. I just needed a walk, that's all.

Alexis: Oh Ok. I'm sorry about Rena's present, I didn't know it would upset you in that way...

Sakina: It didn't upset me. It upset Kiev...but I wouldn't worry, he gets angry easily. He’s….. having a meeting.

Alexis laughed and linked an arm around Sakina. Sakina was surprised, but didn't protest, as she was already tired from taking a few steps.

Alexis: How about we go for a stroll? Miss Rena just called me saying she had an unexpected appointment with someone, and it could very well be Kiev...

Sakina: I wonder how that'll go...

Alexis: Don't ask me. I'm new!

Alexis laughed, and the both of them headed down the hallways, passing the odd crew member as the walked. Not long after, they saw Rena walking down the hallway, applying make-up.

Alexis: Where are you off to, looking so pretty?

Rena: Oh hi Alexis, Sakina. I have a meeting with my most favorite person in the whole world....Kiev.

She puts her finger in her throat, and makes a puking noise. Sakina does her best to remain stony – faced, but a fraction of a smile creeps around her lips.

Sakina: I don’t think he’s very happy with….. the gift.

Rena: I'm sure he's bound to use it...

She laughed and then headed down towards Sakina's room. Sakina and Alexis could hear the door opening, then slamming shut.

Fade out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Sisterly chat (Credit: Yoko)

Not scheduled to wrestle tonight, Yoko is relaxing in her locker room, spending some time on her laptop. She's on AIM talking to Yuki.

Charichu006: You know, I really love your new belt.

I Am Meta Knight: I know! It's great. Mr. Stanton sure is nice. I'll bring it home soon so you can see it up close.

Charichu006: Do the saws really cut?

I Am Meta Knight: Yeah, I pricked my finger to test them.

Charichu006: I want to wear it! Lol.

I Am Meta Knight: Well, like I said, I'll come home sometime and let you. Maybe we can have another sleepover with some friends like over the break, that was fun.

Charichu006: Maybe...

I Am Meta Knight: Why the dots? You didn't have fun?

Charichu006: I did. My friends were uncomfortable sleeping in the same room as you though. The...lesbian thing. Some of your friends, too.

I Am Meta Knight: Forget them. As long as you're not weirded out, I don't care what people think. It's just me. I'm the same me I was when I came home BEFORE coming out.

Charichu006: Yeah, I know. You're still just my big sister to me! Yoko is Yoko.

I Am Meta Knight: I'm glad you think so. :-)

Charichu006: I need to go, it's time to start my chores here.

I Am Meta Knight: Right right, different timezones. Sorry. I love you Yuki, bye bye.

Charichu006: Love you too big sis!

Charichu006 has signed off.

Yoko closes AIM and smiles, all is currently right in the world around her.

End Segment.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 7: Sakina Khalida Vs Vinnie Dulario Vs The Senator - RP style match
(Opening events credit: Vinnie (RP Submission)

OOC Note: This match has been judged on the basis of submissions by those involved, by a specially constructed panel consisting of mod and member representatives.

The penultimate match of the night has had the fans discussing it for days; it brings together three very different superstars in what promises to be a unique match.

Philip: This is a triple threat match, set for one fall! Introducing first, from Lansing Michigan, Vinnie Dulario!

Dave Mustaine's thrashing guitar riff shreds over the arena as "Killing Is My Business..." signals the arrival of the hitman himself. The crowd stands and boos as Vinnie Dulario steps out onto the stage, hands on his hips as he passes his cool gaze from one side of the arena to the other. He whips his arms back, shedding his leather overcoat, and heads to the ring in his gear. It has been a while since we have seen Vinnie in action, but he seemed to have kept in great shape during his time off.

Vinnie heads to the barricades in front of the screaming fans, facing a small child. He teases giving the young fan his shades, but then pulls them back. The kid hollers in anger, and then spits on Vinnie. The hitman smiles as the saliva runs down his chest and places his sunglasses on the canvas in the corner of the ring. He points and the child and utters something the microphones barely register. One would have to possess an uncanny sense of hearing to pick up the string of cusses Vinnie tossed the child's way, or be able to read lips.

The hitman slides into the ring, and takes a microphone from Phillip. He stands, staring at the canvas as he searches for a few words and waits for the jeers to die down.

Dulario: Once again I find myself standing in front of some of the most unintelligent people this world has to offer. You all know me, you all know what I do. You all just can't prove a damn thing, or else I'd be sitting in a three by eight concrete cell with an equally dangerous man. Despite knowing what I love to do, you all still come to see me. You all drag your sorry asses out to this arena from all corners of this pathetic state, since you have nothing better to do on a Thursday night, and sit yourselves down in those seats which are designed for people of normal weight. I mean, look at this guy right here...

Vinnie stops and heads to the ropes, pointing at a rather large man sitting near the front. He wears a NASCAR cap, and his belly cascades over his belt and hangs out from under his tight-fitting 2XL ACW T-Shirt.

Dulario: The ACW really should charge this asshole for two seats. How does it feel to sit next to this slob, honey?

Vinnie gestures at the mildly attractive blonde sitting next to man, dwarfed by his size. She glares at Vinnie as the crowd boos again, and snakes her arm through his, showing off her ring on her other finger.

Dulario: Oh my God, woman, you married this slob? I feel so sorry for you, honey. I really do. You could have been something, with the right man. Instead of sitting at home in your mobile home, slaving over a hot oven preparing four servings of Hamburger Helper...one for yourself and three for your husband...you could have been working for someone like me. You could have been pulling in five, six hundred dollars working only a few hours a night. All you'd have to do is turn some tricks out back for various truck drivers and other fans. You'd work directly for me, meaning no other pimp in this town would dare touch you!

The woman stands angrily and begins shouting. Her husband also shouts back at Vinnie, which the censors quickly edit out with an annoying tone.

Dulario: Don't talk to me about dignity. Hell, you married THAT guy!!!

Vinnie waves off the couple as he heads for the opposite side of the ring, casually leaning against the ropes.

Dulario: You fans don't have any self-respect. None of you. That's why you hand over your money to me. I'd like to take the time to thank you all for not finishing high school. Without you filling those seats, I'd never be able to finance certain operations here in ACW. Which brings me to my next point. After tonight, Vinnie Dulario is taking a sabaticle from ACW-

Dulario is suddenly cut off by a chorus of cheers. The breaking news of Vinnie taking an extended leave of absence gets one of the biggest pops of the night.

Dulario: SHUT THE FUCK UP! I'm still going to be here! I'm just not going to give you all the pleasure of seeing the Lansing Lacerator compete in this ring. Instead, I'll leave you with second-rate stars such as my opponents tonight...SENATOR AND SAKINA!!!

The crowd erupts into another round of cheers for the mention of Vinnie's opponents. The cameras pan around to capture quite a few Senatorial Stable signs in the crowd. This prompts the one finger salute from Dulario as he spins in a full circle. The censors quickly blur out the offensive middle finger before the FCC brings down the hammer and massive fines on ACW.

Dulario: Fuck you all. Fuck each and every one of you. You all want violence, you want blood. Or else you wouldn't watch this barbaric sport. You all LOVE bloodshed! AND I'M THE ONE THAT BRINGS IT TO YOU! Not Sakina Khalida! Not Senator! I've had just about everything I cherish put on the line to force me to compete! My dear sister, Maggie Dulario had her very life threatened just so I would compete for you morons! I brought you an entertaining end to that soap opera! I beat Donnie DeMarc to within an inch of his life, and dragged his lifeless body out of this arena. And still I am booed! I brought you one of the greatest series of matches for the ACW Title with Yoko Satoshi and her bitch, Jade. And what do I get for taking on two deadly women at once? I get booed! I open up one of the most entertaining casinos within the ACW arena, where normal fans like you can win big bucks and rub elbows with various ACW superstars who have gambling problems. AND WHAT DO I GET FOR THAT?!? I get my ass booed out of this ring still! I go on to Omega Effect, and put on the match of my short career, almost ending it in process, and YOU ALL STILL FUCKING HATE ME! I BIRNG YOU THE VIOLENCE, THE BLOODSHED, THE DRAMA, THE SUSPENSE, THE ACTION! EVERYTHING YOU COULD FUCKING HOPE FOR!!!

Vinnie stops, breathing hard, trying to calm himself down before continuing.

Dulario: But still you hate me. And that's fine. I don't need your empathy, or your pity. I've been looking out for myself for a long time, and nothing you can do to stop me from going on. After tonight, I'll have earned enough money to take my "business" to the next level from within ACW. No matter if I lose or win, I've still won in the long run. And all you fans can kiss my ass, because you won't be seeing Vinnie Dulario in an ACW ring for a long, long time. But thanks for the ticket sales, and thanks for buying my book from ACW.com. Without you wasting your hard earned dollars, I wouldn't have been able to finance a lot of the shit I've done. The evil I bring...it's all made possible by the likes of you. Whether I win or lose, a lot of shit is going to start up after tonight. So, Senator, Sakina, get your asses out here. I'd like to get this match over with as soon as possible. I got better things to do with my time that kick your asses and entertain these morons...

Vinnie drops the mic and leans back against the ropes, waiting for the match to start. Philip retrieves it with just the tiniest of annoyed glances at Dulario.

Philip: The next competitor, from Anatalya, Turkey……. Sakina Khalida!

”Hepsin Senin Mi” hits, heralding Sakina’s return to the ring tonight. Kiev still looks a little concerned after the earlier incident, and lord only knows what he and Rena had to say to one another, but Sakina has recovered a lot and she holds herself with quiet confidence as she approaches the ring. Kiev waits on the outside, staring at Vinnie; Sakina simply stretches a little and waits patiently.

Philip: And the final competitor, he is the leader of the Senatorial Stable….. “Senator” Steve Philips!

The fans cheer loudly as the Senator enters to his usual tickertape reception; he proceeds at a steady pace to the ring, tag title belt over his shoulder, not intending to underestimate either of his opponents. Even so, he ascends the turnbuckles for a victory pose, as much for psychology as for show. Then, with the referee satisfied that all is in order, the sound of hammer on metal rings out across the arena.

Bell Rings.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

The three people now facing one another in the ring represent a microcosm of wrestling styles, from pure technical skill to all out brute force. Befitting his own preferences, Vinnie’s the first to make a move, and although Sakina seems the most obvious target for his aggression Vinnie rushes forward and gets in a strong blow on the Senator, figuring that he’s the more dangerous of the two. As Vinnie lays down a flurry of shots to the body, forcing the Senator into a defensive stance, Sakina hesitates for a second over how she should handle this situation – she is uneasy at the thought of attacking either opponent from behind, and she looks over to Kiev for guidance. Kiev simply points to his eyes and then to Senator and Vinnie (the Senator is now replying to Vinnie’s opening gambit with some neatly placed rib kicks); Sakina nods, and stays out of the line of fire for the moment, watching closely for her chance to join the fight. It doesn’t take all that long for this to happen; Vinnie closes the distance to his opponent and drives him back toward the ropes, only for the Senator to respond by kneeing Vinnie in the gut and then unceremoniously throwing him out of the ring to a cheer from the audience. At once Sakina moves forward, keen to show that she is not afraid to take the Senator on; this seems to please her opponent, and they circle a little, each aware of the other’s skill. The gap evaporates and they lock – no, Sakina’s too quick to get tied into that situation, and she’s sidestepped and applied her Dragon Sleeper before the Senator can spot her plan. The Senator is strong and Sakina has to fight with all her power to try and keep the hold locked; she manages to inflict about 20 seconds of it before the Senator powers his way out, breathing hard to try and re – oxygenate his blood. Sakina runs to the ropes, to capitalize on the opportunity she’s created – but as she jumps to the top rope for a springboard attack, Vinnie appears and knocks her down so that she lands awkwardly in the ring. Vinnie smirks as he enters, and the booing of the crowd just seems to make him smile more.

On the outside Kiev almost loses his temper, but he realizes that this will only distract the referee and bites his tongue. In any case, it’ll take more than one fall to ground Sakina; she gets up, and glares at Vinnie, her eyes challenging him to face her. Never one to back down from a fight, Vinnie moves swiftly in her direction; he throws out an incredibly fast punch that Sakina only just manages to dodge, and then spins around in the same movement to boot the Senator in the chest as he comes to join the battle. Vinnie’s made a small mistake, however, in not remaining fully aware of his position in the ring; by the time he’s brought his attention back to Sakina she’s no longer in front of him but already in the air having used the second rope to catapult her skywards. Vinnie takes the neckbreaker at full force, and Sakina makes a cover for 2 before the Senator breaks things up, lifting Sakina up and converting the movement into a kind of suplex variant before making a pin of his own. Sakina kicks before the 2 count, and is aided indirectly by an irate Vinnie running forward and practically kicking the Senator off as if he were a soccer ball. The crowd winces and Vinnie makes a grab for Sakina, who dives out of the way; she has to retreat quickly as Vinnie is determined to catch up to her, but as he comes within range the pair of them are caught out by the Senator standing up suddenly and clotheslining them both down in a single movement. The crowd is on the edge of its seats as the Senator waits for both his opponents to rise; as they do, the Senator whips them one after the other into the nearest turnbuckle and then shoulder charges the “stack”. Both Sakina and Vinnie stagger out, and Sakina seems to have knocked heads with the Senator as she looks dazed; Vinnie sees this and goes for a knockout blow, but before he can connect the Senator rushes forward and nails his famous enziguri to a huge pop. Vinnie keels over, and Senator pins; the hitman kicks out of his own accord just before the 3.

Vinnie is clearly losing his sweet and cheerful disposition now; he pulls himself up and batters the Senator with a string of punches, which are returned in kind. Even so it’s Vinnie who gets lucky first, and employs his jab – and - hook combination to bring Senator down to the mat. Vinnie taunts the Senator as he kicks him without mercy, looking to cause as much harm as he can; even though this is benefiting her too, Sakina has recovered her senses and her anger flares. Moving with soft steps she comes within range of Vinnie; she silently raises her arm, and there’s a surge of noise as the fans see what’s coming. This serves Sakina’s plans perfectly, as Vinnie rapidly turns around to see where the threat is, and promptly gets Sakina’s Chaos (Mandible Claw) slapped on. The fans shout and cheer as Sakina demonstrates hitherto unseen skill and force with her use of the move, and as the Senator recovers to his feet he smiles and lets Sakina have free rein until she decides to release the move. Vinnie looks absolutely livid, and when Sakina doesn’t step away quite quickly enough he belts her across the face; the crowd yells in anger, but is quickly mollified as the Senator grasps the opportunity and lands the Partisan Kick at full power. Vinnie’e eyes look glazed and Senator goes to cover – but Sakina steps back into his line of vision, and Senator understands what she wants. The Senator is aware that he has the size advantage, and seeks to press it; Sakina backs away, and her eyes show just a hint of nervousness, as if she’s hoping for something. The Senator keeps coming and attacks with a couple of strong kicks; Sakina takes them and stumbles, and this draws the Senator closer. He throws an arm forward for an elbow strike, looking to prepare for a finishing blow – but Sakina slips to one side, and then uses the Senator’s momentum to throw him face down on the mat. With great speed Sakina drops on to his back, facing his head, and links up for the Calm. There’s a great shout as she gets it locked in; the Senator fights to free himself, but the match has taken its toll and Sakina has a critcal advantage from her position. Seeing that he’s done his job too well and Vinnie is still down, the Senator has a tough decision to make, and he opts to err on the side of caution for the future. Unable to reach the ropes, the Senator taps out in a dignified manner, and the roof once again becomes loose above the huge roar from the crowds as the referee calls for the bell.

Philip: Here is your winner……. Sakina Khalida!

Kiev rockets into the ring, absolutely ecstatic; for a few seconds all he can do is hold on to Sakina, unable to speak even a single word. Gently Sakina unhitches herself from him, and whispers something in his ear; Kiev nods, and Sakina turns to shake hands with the Senator, gaining a loud extra sound of approval from the crowd. Predictably, Vinnie wants nothing to do with this touching little scene; he’s already on his way to the back. Sakina takes a couple of moments to enjoy what is her most impressive victory in ACW to date, as the show cuts off to a final commercial break.