Thursday Night Meltdown 12th January 2006

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: I....I STAND ALONE!! (Credit: BK/Latino)

The scene fades from the black into the now decorated locker room of both Latino and BK London. The two superstars are on their respective sides of the room and they do not look happy, not just because of their teaming up, it probably concerns the ending of Warfare earlier this week. BK London can be seen lying on the cot on his side of the room while staring up at the ceiling with a noticeable bandage on his head while Latino is visibly angry as he paces back and forth along the line of his room. Latino's temper continue to grow and finally he's reached his melting point.

Latino: That's it! Mira I can't take it anymore! I've been in this room for too long. I'm gonna go out there and call out the Senatorial Stable, it's time they get what's theirs from last week Monday.

Latino approaches the door and as he gets ready to turn the knob he hears a voice which can only be BK's.

BK: ...Unless you want to relive that Senatorial asskicking you got on Monday, I suggest you keep your ass in this room until our match tonight. Go and play with your little hispanic heroes or something.

Latino quickly turns his head toward BK who now rises up and sits on the edge of his cot.

Latino: Oh yea, coming from the guy whom is the all-time pro of watching paint dry. What's your record now? 40 minutes? I don't know about you, but I'm sitting around when I've gotten my ass kicked, and especially in the way they did it.

BK: Not stand around huh? Well let me tell you something Mr. Laureano..

BK rises from his cot and approaches Latino but respecting the boundary by not stepping over it. He looks up and down at Latino and then stares into his face.

BK: I don't see any bandages on your body? I don't see you wailing out in pain Latino. Now unless you want to get your ass kicked I say you should stay in this room and wait until our match. I've managed to withstand and keep a steady head after getting my ass kicked two shows in a row, and I'll be damed if I'm gonna make it three before this night is over.

Latino: So all of a sudden you're some Mother Teresa, thinking you know what's best for me? You know I never wanted to with you in the first place, but I can honestly say I put in a 100% in my matches unlike some other partners.

BK: Is that so huh?

Latino: Yeah that's so.

BK: Well if that's how you feel, then if you want to go out and attempt to take on Senator and Hunter by yourself, be my guest. But guess what? - I won't take part in any of it, you can face them in a handicap match tonight and if I feel like coming down to the ring. Then I'll come down and save your ass. And before this night is over, someone WILL get their lips kicked off their face.

Latino: That is fine by me.

BK makes his way out of the locker room and down the hall and Latino runs toward the doorway and begins screaming at him.

Latino: FINE! I DON'T NEED YOU! I'LL WIN BY MYSELF! AND THEN THERE WILL BE A PARTY! AND UH...YOU WON'T BE INVITED!

Latino slams down and sits down on his cot in a mad fashion before picking up his Hispanic Heroes.

Latino: We don't need him...right Pedro? That's right. We'll have chicks, beers, and firetrucks....

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: A Friendly Talk (Part 1)
(Credit: Senator)

Returning from the break, the Senator is seen in the nice spiffy new Senatorial Office, with Anthony Kalb standing nearby as Kevin Fitsharris walks in through the door connecting the new office with the old Senatorial locker room/former Senatorial Office.

Fitsharris: How you doin’, boss?

The Senator: Just fine, I am a bit busy right now, though.

Kalb: You’re always busy. Too busy.

Senator: Yes, that is what happens when you are a United States Senator…you do work, and plenty of it.

Kalb: No, what I meant to say is that you’re spending way too much time on your paperwork and stuff. You never used to be that concerned with that stuff before.

Fitsharris: Yeah, you seem weighed down or something…

Senator: Well, I suppose that I just have more work than usual on this end. Anyway, I have been meaning to speak with you two as it is. I notice that there are two shiny belts sitting there on Fallout…guess who convinced the ACW titles committee to commission those belts?

Fitsharris: I dunno, the Lost Boys?

Senator: No, you ignoramus! I did! I figured that as the singles Junior title is somewhat off the realm of Fallout, you guys should have some titles that you could contend for, and as you started off as a tag team around here, you would be more than qualified to win those belts. Unfortunately, you guys did not put out the effort that it would have taken to have gained the belts. You asked what happened to me…well, I very well might direct that question right back at you! What happened? You two used to be hungry, you wanted gold, and you wanted to prove you were worthy of holding it…Anthony, you went through epic struggles to gain, retain, and regain the Junior title, shedding sweat and blood, showing a fighting spirit that seems to have now eluded you, and Kevin, you were so jealous of that title that you completely revised your style and won that belt by actually using your head…which seems to have traveled the same path that Anthony’s fighting spirit took. What happened? I shall tell you what happened, you lost it! You lost your fire!

Kalb: We lost a match, sir, no big deal, we can win those belts any time we want…

Senator: Then where are they? Where are those belts? Around the waists of the Lost Boys!

Fitsharris: Woah! Take it easy, boss!

Senator: Take it easy? That is exactly what you have been doing, and it is exactly what I am going to make sure you stop doing!

Kalb: Oh great, here we go again…

Senator: Good, it looks like one of you understands what you are in for…ha! The Senatorial Stable is finally going to obtain the goal of dominance that it should have achieved long ago, and this time, I am not going to tolerate stragglers! Hunter may have let you guys just stagnate and do nothing while I was gone, but those days are over! We are going to be a successful unit, making history here in ACW. Hmm…of course, if we are going to reach those higher plains, we can not deal with quarrelling within the ranks, and on that note, if you two could track Santiago and Hunter down, I would really appreciate it.

The Capitalists (in unison): Yes sir…

Kalb and Fitsharris both walk out of the office at a breakneck pace, truly sensing that things are changing, hopefully for the best.

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 5: Bre Double T vs. Predator (Credit: Justin)

The night rolls on perpetually and the fans are thirsty for yet more action. The bell rings to signal the next bout. Phillip takes his place in the ring to introduce the next contest…

Phillip: The following contest is a non-title match scheduled for one fall…

“Stay together for the kids” hits the system and through the curtain steps Predator, not seen in an ACW arena for a while. He quickly makes his way to the ring whilst Philip reminds anyone who might have forgotten who he is.

Phillip: Introducing first, from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, weighing in at 220 pounds…Predator!

Predator slides into the ring with ease and mounts a turnbuckle to exhibit himself to the crowd. As he drops to the canvas the introduction of “Enter Sandman” plays. Once the music really kicks in Bre makes his way out onto the stage.

Philip: And his opponent, from Rochester, New York, weighing in at 210 pounds, he is the ACW Light Heavyweight Champion…Bre Double T!

Bre makes his way to the ring a little more reserved than usual, obviously a little peeved about the theft of his property on Monday. He slides into the ring and mounts the turnbuckle just recently used by Predator. After dropping to the canvas Bre turns around to head for the opposite corner but suddenly finds himself on the end of a barrage of right hands from Predator, eager to get the contest under-way.

Joey Reynolds calls for the bell to officially begin the bout as Predator backs Bre into the corner with his tough strikes. Predator delivers a right knee to the midsection of the LHW champ before whipping him across the ring, closely following behind him before hitting a hard clothesline as Bre reaches the corner. Predator hits a back elbow to the jaw before bringing Bre out of the corner and pulling him down with a snapmare takedown quickly followed up by a dropkick to the back of the neck. Predator tries a cover but it’s too early for that and Bre manages to kick out before the 2 count. Predator doesn’t hesitate and quickly pulls Bre to his feet, backs him into the ropes and whips him across the ring before ducking down. Unfortunately for him he does not manage to pull off the move he envisioned. Instead, Bre flips over in an attempt at a sunset flip but Predator manages to drop to his knees to counter and form a pin of his own. Bre quickly uses his legs to pull Predator down by the armpits but Predator manages to roll through and quickly grabs ahold of Bres legs and tries another pin. Bre reacts speedily to reach up and grab Predator by the head and roll him up with a small package. Predator manages to kick out and the two get to their feet.

They waste no time in going at it again as they charge each other. Bre knocks Predator down with a clothesline. Predator gets back to his feet only to be knocked down with another clothesline. He pushes himself to his feet once more and attempts a clothesline of his own but Bre ducks it and now from behind Predator, he delivers a german suplex in the middle of the ring. Predator rolls on the mat, holding his neck in pain, as Bre starts to ascend the turnbuckle. Predator gets to his feet and turns toward Bre who leaps from the turnbuckle and lands on the shoulders of Predator to hit a flying headscissor takedown.
Predator staggers to his feet and stumbles into the arms of Bre who hits a nice belly-to-belly suplex. Bre makes the cover…1…2…Predator kicks out in time.

Bre is slightly aggravated by this and he pushes himself to his feet before pulling Predator to the same level. He hooks in a front facelock and hits a quick snap suplex. He sits up and looks around for ideas. He proceeds to the corner and ascends the turnbuckle once more, looking quite unsure of what to do next. His hesitation proves to be his downfall, literally, as Predator uses the ample time provided to recover and rack the ropes, sending Bre down onto his unmentionables. Predator approaches Bre and hits a stiff right hand to keep Bre perched on the turnbuckle. He starts to climb to his level, gretting him with right hands as he ascends. Once at the same level he begins to force Bre to his feet. They raise to their feet, balancing carefully on the top rope. Predator locks in a front facelock and the inevitable comes. The pair come crashing down to the canvas with Predator credited as the move attributor but sharing the consequences.
The two lay spread eagle on the canvas with no signs of movement. Referee Joey Reynolds initiates a ten count. 1…
2…
3…
The pair begin to stir…
4…
5…
6…
Predator reaches for the bottom rope and begins to pull himself to his feet. At the same time Bre starts to push himself up.
7…
8…
The two are both up on their feet but visibly dazed. They approach each other and slug it out with right hands. Predator hits a right hand to the temple of Bre which causes him to stagger backwards into the ropes. Bre uses the ropes to gain momentum and rushes at Predator looking for a clothesline but Predator acts quickly and brings Bre down with what first looks like a fujiwara armbar but it soon becomes apparent that he is attempting to lock in his trademark crossface. He successfully locks in the painful hold and Bre writhes in agony. He reaches out for the ropes which seem like miles away as Predator leans back for leverage. The referee asks Bre multiple times if he is willing to give up but Bre is no quitter. He struggles for the ropes, edging closer and closer but for him, not close enough. He feels the pain again and lets out a agonizing yell before digging deep down to pull out more from himself. He edges closer again and at a stretch he manages to reach and grab the bottom rope forcing Predator to release the hold.

Frustrated, Predator gets to his feet and backs off and sets up for the Fresh Kill. Bre just manages to get to his feet and turn to face Predator but only to receive a kick in the gut. With Bre doubled over Predator turns his back and underhooks both his arms. He twists his body then lifts Bre up preparing for the his finishing maneuver…however, Bre manages to free on of his arms and manages to drop down to his feet behind Predator.

He promptly takes Predator down with a spear to the knee and then locks in his preferable half boston crab. Predator screams out in pain as Bre locks it in, swooping low onto Predators’ back to increase the pressure. Predator reaches out for the nearest rope but it is so far away. He tries to drag himself closer but makes very little progress. He covers his face in pain as he looks inside for more. He stretches out again, still writhing in anguish. It’s too far…and he can’t take any more. He has no option but to tap from this position. The referee calls for the bell and Bre soon releases the hold. He holds an arm in the air in celebration but he still has a displeased look on his face, presumably due to his title being missing at this very moment.

Phillip : Here is your winner…Bre Double T!

Bre drops down to the canvas and rolls out of the ring before exiting up the ramp leaving Predator to console himself after a tough loss.

Fade out to commercials.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: A Friendly Talk(Part 2)
(Credit: Senator, Hunter, and Santiago)

After the commercials, the show starts up again in the Senatorial Office, with Santiago Riviera and Anthony Kalb standing on either side of the Steve Phillips's desk, when an out of breath Kevin Fitsharris dashes in with the ACW Champion behind him.

The Senator: Very well then, I see that the champ is truly here...ugh, I even hate using that line in jest...anyway, I just called you two in...

Fitsharris: Hey...aren't...you...going to thank me for rushing halfway across the arena? I think, I think I'm gonna pass out!

Santiago: Woah there, don't do that or we'll have to drag your carcass over to the couch in the locker room.

Kalb: More like we'll dump you in the workout room in Dwight's Gym to get your ass in shape...

Senator: Enough! Anyway, what I wanted to do here is to make sure that things are running fine here in the Stable. Earlier this week, I watched the two of you engage in what was supposed to be a friendly, but still intense title match. I know how those things go, and I wanted to make sure that your little post match comments do not denegrate into a sort of a lasting feud. I have indeed encountered such situations in the past, and know how seemingly trivial issues can escalate into lasting fights and feuds. As such, I want to hear that both of you can still work together as a cohesive unit. I am not asking you to be peachy keen towards one another, just to be on the same page.

Santiago: Fine by me. Can't say I always get along with you Hunter, and I wish it was me standing there with that belt, but if we're working together, then that works for me.

Senator: Hunter?

Hunter: Santiago, I don't think you always get it, but still, I suppose I'd rather have you on my side than otherwise.

Senator: And do not forget, this goes both ways, if you see me acting in a similar manner, call me out on it. I am no less human than the rest of you, and although I might...

Fitsharris: Heheh, the heck you aren't, you're some sort of...

Kalb: Shut up, Kev.

Senator: Very well, then, I have things to do, and I am sure you do too, so just shake and go about whatever you need to do.

Hunter and Santiago both smirk for a moment, and shake before leaving the office. The Capitalists both head back to the locker room, as the Senator returns to his paperwork, while the camera goes to a...

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Testosterone Overload

Out in the backstage, things are once again a perfect example of organized chaos, with crew and roster members bustling about all over the place. Someone managing to fill both those categories at once is Charlotte King; having showered and changed after her match in record time, she’s now back in her interviewing garb, and ready to get on with the other half of her job description.

Charlotte knocks on the door of the locker room she’s standing in front of, and it opens; Alicia steps out into the corridor.

Charlotte: Alicia, do you have a few moments to answer some questions for the ACW fans?

Alicia: Sure. I think I can guess what they’ll be about… fire away.

Charlotte: OK. Firstly, how are you feeling after Monday’s attack on you and certain other ACW superstars? That chokeslam looked incredibly brutal.

Alicia lets a small smile flicker across her face.

Alicia: Well, it certainly wasn’t a pleasant experience… if you encounter someone with the power that the Hitman possesses, you’re going to know about it for days afterward. But I’ve been through much worse than that, and I’m a fast healer.

Charlotte: That’s good to hear. What’s your reaction to these events, and the comments made by others earlier tonight?

Alicia: My reaction? That depends on the individuals concerned. I’m not in the least surprised by Hunter’s involvement; he’s a classic attention seeker and lover of all things theatrical. Hitman? He does what he’s told to do, so long as it suits his taste for mindless destruction. As for “Senator” Steve Philips, I can only express surprise… I always believed he was above this kind of posturing.

Charlotte: You don’t sound particularly angered by all this… so do you intend just to let the perpetrators get away with what they’ve done?

Alicia: You make it sound like some sort of crime, Charlotte… but that’s exactly what the Senatorial stable members want you to think. I don’t give two hoots about what any of them have said by way of explanation; this is all about their own psychological need to maintain their reputations, nothing more. They could have simply challenged one or more of us to a match, but evidently that’s too much of a risk – so instead they chose the “stealth option”. It’s one of the oldest tricks in the book, designed to stir up resentment… and the moment you go down that path, you’re letting someone else dictate your actions, without even realizing it.

She pushes back her hair, and addresses the camera directly.

Alicia: Hitman, Senator, and Hunter… in your heart of hearts, you’d love to see me spitting nails, declaring you to be public enemies number 1 to 3 and vowing vengeance – because that would reinforce the image that you’re so desperate to create of being the men to beat in this fed. Well, I hate to disappoint you, but I simply can’t summon up enough genuine emotion for that… by your very actions, you have eroded much of the regard that I held for you. Go and sell your snake oil elsewhere… I see you for what you really are, and I’m not buying it.

She turns back to Charlotte.

Charlotte: That’s a strong statement right there. Just one more question, if you would be so kind: There are a number of rumors circulating on the internet-

Alicia: Oh, for the last time, that was NOT me. I’ve got much nicer breasts than that, for a start.

Charlotte (laughing): Hehe, well we’ll have to take your word on that one. Would you and Latino ever consider a similar exercise?

Alicia grins.

Alicia: Certainly not. We’d save our “performance” for a PPV…

She gives Charlotte a conspiratorial wink, and goes back into the locker room, as the scene fades out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Obscure Relations (Credit: ??)

At ACW the backroom staff and authority pride themselves on running the events on schedule with minimal-to-zero technical difficulties. Therefore in the unlikely event of an uncontrolled error panic levels are known to increase dramatically and fears of contract termination stalk any workers with a nervous disposition.
It is to no surprise then, that when the Alphatron flickers erratically before the regular image of the arena interior is replaced by an unfamiliar scene, the orders are all hands on deck to locate the source of this strange transmission and secure control again.

Once again the shot is accompanied by the familiar amateur video lay-out, complete with time and date display in the bottom corner, but these figures are concealed by a blur effect. The scene itself is of a small, slightly old-fashioned suburban home with a plush green garden lazing in-front of it. Just in shot, in the driveway, is a dark blue Chevrolet Impala with its headlights glaring at the house.

The house re-captures the attention of any wandering or studying eyes as the front door, white with three small windows and a small golden knocker, opens and a shadow is cast on the door and for a second there is no movement until a figure backs out of the door then stops just a foot or so outside. The person is vaguely familiar and most can assume who exactly it is. He is engaged in conversation with an unseen individual. The person outside reaches in to the hidden person and seems to give them a hug. An arm from inside reaches out and around the person and gives him a friendly rub. The hand is small and frail, possibly belonging to an elderly lady. The person turns away and confirms suspicions of his identity. Unsurprisingly it’s Latino and the video receives some boos as the fans have now realised that this is an invasion of his privacy. He approaches the car and opens the door before turning back to the house and sending a wave in the direction of the open door. The hand reaches out once more and returns the gesture. With this Latino takes a seat and pulls the door shut before putting the key into the ignition.

Obviously, one universal function of amateur camcorders is the zoom function. This obviously allows the user to zoom-in to view distant objects with great detail. It also allows the amateur film-maker to zoom-out, widen the shot and generally steady the picture. The operator of this camera utilizes this function and as Latino starts the engine of his car the screen retreats from the car steadily until it halts with a wider view of its surroundings. With this it is possible to see Latinos’ car back out of the drive and turn into the road. A shift of gear is followed by an exaugural honk of the horn. Latino gently squeezes the accelerator and pulls away down the road. The camera is turned toward the road and witnesses the car drive further and further away. For a moment it almost seems as if it is the end of the scene, however, a sound is heard from a local source, it sounds like an engine roaring into life. The camera also starts to vibrate indicating that it had been supported on a dashboard the whole time. The engine roars once more and the sound of a handbrake being released follows…but no movement.
Another click and the engine ceases to purr. There seems to be no sign of a problem, there is no spluttering or attempts to restart the engine. Suddenly the camera begins to turn toward the house again and the figure that Latino was speaking to, an elderly lady with an apparent Latino complexion, is out in the front garden picking something up off the grass. She inspects it before returning to the door at which she turns and glances up and down her street, glancing over the location of the camera without seemingly noticing anything unusual. She returns her glance in the direction of where Latino drove away before finally retreating into her house and closing the door.

The motionless and now occupied house is the focus of the shot once more for a few more seconds before the unmistakable sound of a car door opening is heard. The camera is jerked away from its position and accompanies its owner on their travels. The door of the car, carefully excluded from view, slams shuts and for the next few seconds only the ground, on which the mystery individual walks, is visible. It stops at the threshold of a foot-path. The camera is raised and aimed at the door once exited by Latino. Slowly it approaches…slowly bearing down on the white door that suddenly looks like it would smash to smithereens if anybody were to knock on it too enthusiastically.
The door is so close now you’d think that if it were to zoom now the view would penetrate the door itself. It stops…and a shadow is cast right in front of shot. From the right side of shot a hand reaches out and stretches toward the door-handle! The hand unclasps and makes its final approach on the handle…

Black.

The usual image returns and the crowd are left without breath and on the edge of their seats with the question burning in their minds, who is this sinister character and why is he stalking Latino? As if Latino didn’t have enough on his plate at this time he’d be forgiven for feeling turbulent. The show continues, though now with this in memory, as everything seems to be in control.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 6: Affirmative Action vs. Hunter & Senator

The precise nature of the next match is in doubt after earlier events, and the crowd watches to see what will happen as Philip enters the ring.

Philip: This is a tag match, set for one fall… Introducing first, representing the Senatorial Stable, “Senator” Steve Philips and the ACW World Champion, Andrew Hunter!

”Hail to the Chief!” plays, and Hunter and Senator come out together in confident mood. The crowd boos, but neither man seems unduly concerned; they reach the ring and enter, walking around it a few times to exert their authority.

Philip: And their opponents, from New York City…. Affirmative Action!

”Lowrider” hits, and there is a short pause before Latino comes out… alone. The crowd cheer loudly, conscious that Latino needs their support more than ever; Latino keeps his internal feelings hidden, and pounds his chest defiantly as he walks down to the ring and steps through the ropes.

There is a staredown for a second or two before the referee breaks it up, and asks which of the Senatorial duo will start. The Senator steps forward at once, and Hunter gives Latino a final smirk before exiting to the apron. The crowd just starts shouting for Latino again, and the referee decides to get things underway as fast as possible.

Bell Rings.

Landed with what is in effect a handicap match, Latino knows he’s got to be right at the top of his game to deal with the formidable combination of Hunter and the Senator. He makes the first move, forcing the Senator to meet him head to head, and the crowd chants loudly for the Latino one as he uses his natural speed to lay down several strong blows to his opponent. The Senator, however, is a patient man, and waits for the initial fire of Latino’s opening to die back; Latino can’t sustain his pace indefinitely, and at the first sign of flagging the Senator shifts gear and gives Latino a taste of his much feared chops, a prelude to a series of three Dragon Screws designed to compromise Latino’s ability to get into the air for his most powerful moves. Latino grimaces, and Senator adds further damage with a low dropkick to his right knee so that Latino topples over. The Senator makes a cover which Latino breaks easily at the 1 count, and Hunter calls for the tag while their side is still firmly in control. Latino, however, has other ideas; as the Senator turns away, Latino nips up and grabs Senator by the wrist. This causes the Senator to turn his head back in Latino’s direction, whereupon Latino produces a standing superkick out of nowhere; it lacks the power of a “full” superkick, but stuns the Senator long enough for Latino to lift his foe into a vertical suplex, omitting the stall so that the move is completed before the Senator has the chance to recover and counter. The crowd roars with delight as Latino makes a cover and gets about 1.5 for his efforts; Latino tries to keep the Senator on the mat, but the Senator slips neatly out of his grasp and succeeds in making the tag. Hunter moves with all haste and lays into Latino with powerful forearms, switches into rib kicks and then delivers the Thunderstorm. Latino reels under the relentless pressure, and the crowd has a sinking feeling that there is no way for their hero to resist such odds for any extended period of time…

Yet as the assault continues, the alphatron suddenly switches from showing the match to a shot of the backstage. The crowd is confused until a door in the shot opens, and BK London appears, with a steely expression on his face. As he walks toward the camera, the crowd starts to cheer, and the Senator shouts to Hunter to try and finish Latino off before help arrives… but his concern turns out to be unfounded, as the camera shows BK stop at a soda vending machine and take out a bottle of water. BK takes a drink, and then saunters back in the direction of his locker room; the crowd boos, and Hunter and Senator just share a confident smile with one another, reassured that Latino really is on his own for this one.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Hunter’s kept on with his plan, and as attention returns to the ring fully, he continues it with the Dynamite. His speculative pin gets a solid 2 count, and Hunter gets up in an almost leisurely manner, taunting Latino as he does so. The crowd boos, and redoubles its chants for Latino; Hunter takes his eye off the ball for just a split second, but it’s all that Latino requires. Having quietly gathered his strength, Latino abruptly bursts back into life and dashes straight past Hunter to clothesline the Senator off of the apron. Hunter comes rushing after him, but Latino leaps up on to the turnbuckle post, and Hunter crashes into it. As he gasps for air, Latino leaps off for a crossbody, knocking Hunter down as he goes; movement on the outside shows the Senator picking himself up, and with a cocky smile Latino slaps his chest, points, and then dashes forward for the pitbull’s pounce. He’s forgotten the Senator’s legendary reflexes, however, and the Senator gets out of the way at the last second, causing Latino to fly all the way into a highly surprised front row of the audience. There’s a lot of shouting as security try to disentangle the crowd from the match; Latino is a little dazed on landing, and the Senator assists by fishing him out of the seating and pulling him back into the ringside area. Hunter slides out of the ring, and the crowd boos in dismay as Latino gets soundly double teamed, and drops to the floor. With the ref counting, Hunter and Senator bundle Latino on to the apron – but Latino has another surprise in store, and as soon as he feels the ring beneath him, he hops up just inside the ropes and uses them to springboard off. He gets his ankles locked to Hunter, but as he swings around, he hooks one arm around the Senator so that he brings both opponents down hard with the same move. The crowd goes berserk, they want more of the same, and Latino has every intention of giving it to them.

With adrenalin pulsing, Latino scrambles back on to the apron, and from there to the corner post. Ignoring the high risks involved, he signals for Last Night’s Hangover and goes for another double hit… but as he takes off, Hunter rolls aside and is sliding back into the ring even as Latino lands for a partial hit on the Senator. Proving that he’s as much of a risk taker as Latino is, Hunter stuns the crowd with a suicide dive on to Latino as he gets up; the impact is crunching, and Latino is left dazed and confused as a rather pissed off Hunter gets back on his feet. Senator is up too, and now the foolhardy nature of Latino’s antics comes back to haunt him; with no backup, he is unable to protect himself from the full wrath of his opponents. Hunter and Senator show no mercy, it’s clear that they really do mean to take Latino apart, and only when the ref is about to count them all out do they shove their foe back into the ring. Hunter and Senator share a brief word, deciding the best way to end the match; Hunter pulls the dazed Latino up, and then demonstrates one of his new and incredibly strong moves, the Volcano Driver (Psycho Driver I). It lacks a little of the finesse that comes with practice, but that’s hardly an issue; to complete Latino’s defeat utterly, Hunter tags back to the Senator, and ACW’s submission master shows his impeccable credentials by applying the Tax Cut, made all the worse by his prior work on Latino’s limbs. Latino’s expression is one of genuine agony; he desperately wants to preserve his pride, but with no way to break the hold, he’s in danger of sustaining permanent injury…

…but just then, the crowd is sent into orbit once again as the cavalry at last arrives. BK comes from their very ranks, taking a leaf from Hitman’s book; occupying a corner next to the ramp, Hunter doesn’t see him until he’s already in the ring. BK comes straight in with the Shades of Michaels, and Senator is too busy concentrating on Latino to spot it in time. The fans yell “OOOOOOOH!” at the impact; Hunter rushes in and batters BK, but the former multiple champion gives it right back, forcing Hunter away until the pair succeed in taking one another out over the top rope. Latino staggers up, and the Senator does the same; now with the playing field even, the match balances on a knife edge. With speed the deciding factor, the Senator goes for the Partisan Kick without the usual abdomen kicks to set it up; it almost connects, but Latino leans back and escapes it by a whisker, and the Senator inadvertently puts himself into the perfect position for the Switchblade Cut. Latino strikes, and pins; the ref is there at once, and counts the three a millisecond before the Senator kicks out.

The bell rings, halting BK and Hunter’s war on the outside as Philip makes the announcement.

Philip: Here are your winners…. Affirmative Action!

The crowd is overjoyed, and Latino hauls himself to his feet, elated. BK slides into the ring, chest puffed out and looking exceptionally pleased with himself; Hunter is furious and protests to the referee, but as BK was technically a participant, the referee will have none of it. The Senator keeps his thoughts to himself, but the crowd are sure that he won’t allow such a situation to arise again if he can help it, and he and Hunter are already discussing something in hushed tones as they head to the back…

In the ring, BK holds his arms up, celebrating as if he won the match himself. Latino is more than a little annoyed at this, and gives BK a shove from behind to get his attention. Their words can’t be heard, but the crowd easily works out that both men consider themselves to have played the crucial role in the victory, BK for making the critical save, and Latino for fighting the bulk of the match and getting the pin. After a few moments, BK slides out of the ring and walks away, ignoring his tag partner entirely; Latino frowns, and follows at a distance a few seconds later. They might have won the match, but BK and Latino clearly have a long way to go before they are a real team.

Fade out to commercials.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 7: ACW International Title Match
Santiago Rivera vs. Vladimir Rasputin

There is but one title match on the card tonight… and it looks certain to be a memorable one. Philip adjusts the settings on him mic to eliminate some background hiss, and then starts to speak.

Philip: This next match is a singles match set for one fall, and it is for the ACW International Championship! Introducing first, from Irkutsk, Siberia… the challenger, Vladimir Rasputin!

”Hymn to the Soviet Union” plays, and Vlad gets plenty of cheers with a few obligatory chants of “U-S-A-!” thrown in. He simply smirks at the crowd’s reactions, and carries his flag with dignity down to ringside, placing it respectfully in the timekeeper’s corner and shooing away anyone else who looks like they might even consider touching it. He enters the ring, and flexes his muscles, warming them up in preparation for the match ahead.

Then, “Nymphetamine” by Cradle of Filth hits, and there is a surge of booing as Santiago shows his cocky face on the stage.

Philip: And his opponent, from Austin Texas, he is the defending ACW International Champion… Santiago Rivera!

Santiago holds his belt up as he walks down the aisle, taunting the fans who are booing with relish. He continues to do this even in the ring, circling and slapping the belt in an attempt to get Vlad riled. If it has any effect, it’s not visible, as Vlad remains quietly confident.

The referee takes the belt and holds it up, and with all other preparations completed, gives the cue for the match to start.

Bell Rings.

After two successive matches as challenger, Santiago now finds himself facing the first defense of his International title; and if Vlad has any say in the matter, it will be his last. The two men circle and then tie up; they grapple for a few seconds, and it becomes clear that Vlad is making the best of things, as he twists Santiago around and wrenches on his arm. Santiago pulls free, but Vlad grasps his other arm and repeats the process, forcing Santiago to fight hard before he can break away again. The crowd is split as to who to support, as neither man is a natural favorite, and so the cheers and shouts swing back and forth as Santiago backs off, reconsidering his approach to the match. Vlad, meanwhile, wants to keep the pressure on and tries to close the gap to his foe; he moves in quickly, but is caught out by Santiago’s spirited response, and takes several clubbing blows to the upper body. Struggling to respond, Vlad’s own punch is neatly countered into Santiago’s Prey Killer, and Santiago makes the first pin of the match for slightly less than a 2 count. Both men are on their feet again quickly, and Santiago opens up with a series of mighty chops, complete with Flair-style vocal accompaniment from the fans; Vlad is pushed back toward the ropes, but manages to halt Santiago’s attack with a strong whip in the opposite direction. Santiago reaches the ropes and ricochets back for a dashing attack; Vlad counters smoothly into an armdrag, and Santiago rolls a couple of feet before rising back up. The gap to the other side of the ring is much shorter, and Vlad has only a second or two to prepare, but he still succeeds in repeating the armdrag, this time transitioning it into a full armbar. Santiago grits his teeth; the ref gives him a questioning look, but Santiago just gives him an acid glare, and forces his way out of the hold.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Vlad won’t give the defending champion any time to compose his thoughts; the pair are toe to toe again within moments, and Vlad continues to target Santiago’s arms and upper body. Santiago though is capable of absorbing plenty of punishment, and when his own blows connect, Vlad is visibly shaken by them. After one particularly rattling blow, Santiago sees a chance to build on and grabs the Soviet by the head, running him into the turnbuckle and slamming his forehead into the buckle pad. Dazed, Vlad is open for Santiago to use his Ten Gallon Boot (running front kick), and this sends Vlad to the mat; Santiago drops for the cover, but only gets a count of 1 before Vlad responds, and uses a throat thrust to break Santiago’s concentration. With consummate skill, Vlad shifts and places Santiago into a grounded abdominal stretch; again the referee watches closely for any signs of submission, but Santiago refuses to even consider such an option. The ropes are only a short distance away, and Santiago manages to break out of Vlad’s hold and grab them before Vlad can re-apply it. Frustrated, Vlad hops back on his feet and starts to kick at Santiago’s ribs while he’s still on the ground; Santiago takes evasive action, and rolls himself out of the ring. Vlad knows that the ringside area is a place where Santiago excels at creating advantage for himself, so he refuses to be drawn out; theoretically, Santiago could simply allow himself to be counted out and retain the title that way, but the crowd is already expressing disapproval of such a repeat performance from Monday, and Santiago himself does not look ready to concede such a defeat to Vlad. At about the 6 count, everything happens very quickly; Santiago, who has been staring down Vlad, makes a break and dashes around the ring, sliding back in on the opposite side. Vlad storms over and tries to connect with his opponent, but Santiago narrowly avoids getting stamped, and the crowd reacts with loud cheers as the two men engage one another with nothing held back…

With regard to technique, Vlad and Santiago represent opposite ends of the spectrum, technical excellence versus sheer strength. What they have in common is pure determination; they blast one another with blows that would KO lesser men instantly, their ferocity only increasing as they find each other unwilling to give ground. Santiago attempts to take Vlad down with a spinning kick to the stomach followed by a superkick, but Vlad ducks the second kick and gets behind Santiago to trap his arms in a crossed hold while applying a choke. The ref counts to 5, and Santiago breaks out – and immediately Vlad uses a snap suplex to go for a swift pin. He gets a 2 before Santiago kicks; the crowd can sense that Vlad was really just testing his foe’s condition, and as Santiago rises, Vlad signals for the unprettier that will set up the Iron Curtain I, the savage submission that he has been working toward for the entire match. Santiago is tiring, but he is not ignorant of Vlad’s intention, and as Vlad tries to grab on to him, Santiago slips free and taunts his opponent, letting him know that he’s wise to his tricks. Angered, Vlad is more determined than ever to complete his finisher, but as he approaches, Santiago launches his defense in the form of a brutal counterattack, hitting Vlad with a few choice chops and then bending his knees to lift Vlad up on to his shoulders, going for the Texas Tea (California Roll). Vlad too is aware of his opponent’s preferred moves, and throws his weight so that he falls back and drops down behind Santiago; the crowd roars as Vlad grasps him and shifts position for the Unprettier. Everything hinges on this one moment as Vlad tries to execute the move, and Santiago resists… and then the scale tips, and Santiago counters into his ICU (Psycho Driver II). He pins at once, and the move crushes Vlad’s resistance just long enough for Santiago to pick up the 1,2,3.

Philip: Here is your winner, and still ACW International Champion…. Santiago Rivera!

The crowd shows its appreciation for the fine match as Santiago takes back his belt; he is clearly very proud of this victory, and gets up on the turnbuckles in celebration. Vlad rolls out of the ring, muttering darkly in Russian; he came close, but once again the gold has slipped out of his grasp. It’s a feeling that Santiago himself could sympathize with… and the fans know that some day soon, Vlad’s luck will come good. For now, he has only increased his already formidable reputation, and defiantly raises his arms to the crowd as Santiago continues his victory celebrations and the show cuts to a break.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Commercial Segment: ‘ZZZ Sleeping Pills’ (Credit: Kudo)

A deep voice is heard as footage of a disgruntled man in his pajamas is rolling back and forth in bed next to his wife.

Voice Over: Have you ever felt as helpless as this man?

Wife: Can’t sleep again? Why don’t you go take some sleeping pills downstairs.

Man: Oh come on, you know that stuff doesn’t work!

Wife: Well then go down anyway and stop bothering me, I have to get up early tomorrow!

The even more disgruntled man makes his way down the stairs and opens the cupboard, knocking over random generic brands of nighttime medicines and pills.

Man: All useless. We got cough medicine, flu medicine, aspirins...purple stuff…hey, what’s this?

Voice Over: From the genius minds that bring you Action O’s cereal and Emerald Fusion sports drink, comes the new wave in comfort sleeping, Triple Z sleeping pills!

The man suddenly finds a carton of ZZZ pills in the back of the cupboard and pops some in his mouth eagerly. Seconds later, he collapses and hits the table on his way down, knocking down several plates and Tupperware, falling fast asleep on the floor.

Voice Over: Triple Z sleeping pills - guaranteed to put you to sleep in any circumstance with great ease and comfort and finally give you the relief that you so desperately seek!

Suddenly the wife comes walking down the stairs visibly pissed.

Wife: What’s all this racquet?!! I told you to not disturb me you oaf! Oh you better not have eaten my cake. You know that’s for my meeting tomorrow!

Voice Over(suggestively): I mean come on, would you rather go to sleep like this?

Out of nowhere, Kudo runs up and catches the woman before she takes the last step and nails her with his Go To Sleep, sending her crashing down next to her husband, “knocked out” along with him.

Voice Over: Triple Z may not be for everyone. If you are fat, stupid, underweight, overweight, pregnant, impotent, stressed, are on any kind of medication, are on a diet, are hallucinating, are planning to drink or smoke, or don’t bathe, God help you if you don’t bathe, please consult your doctor before buying this over the counter product. Other than that, get ready to enjoy the best sleep you’d ever have in your life!

The commercial ends with Kudo snatching the cake out of the fridge and stuffing his face before taking one last look and flipping the light switch down, leaving the couple knocked out on the floor with the lights out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 8: Cage Match
RDK vs. Hitman of the Gods (Credit: Hitman; Ending events credit: BK/Hitman)

The past events of last week's Meltdown and this past Warfare are coming into effect tonight as the fans are still upset with Hitman and the Senatorial Stable turning their backs on them. Slowly do we fade into the arena. The cage towers above the ring with complete awe. Philip stands in the ring.

Philip: "The following contest is a steel cage match! The only way to win is by pinfall, submission or escaping the cage. Introducing first, accompanied by the ACW International Champion and teammate Santiago Rivera, from Hades, standing at seven feet six and weighing in at 451 lbs, he is a member of the Senatorial Stable... HITMAN OF THE GODS!"

"Dirty Diamonds" by Alice Cooper hits and the crowd is less than pleased to have the seven foot plus giant come out with what has occurred recently. Hitman walks out with his good friend Santiago and ignores the fans as he steps over the top rope and into the ring. Hitman looks around then looks up at the cage. His grin only widens as he looks forward to blood being shed. Santiago slides out and lets Hitman have his time as he gets a mic from ringside and raises it to his lips.

Hitman: "The time for talk is over. Everyone has seen what the Senatorial Stable can do as we have shown Macho Maggot, BK Loser, that Eddie Guerrero wannabe and in my eyes... especially AK. Roll the footage, monkeys!"

FLASHBACK TO WARFARE

On the outside, all the noise has shaken AK out of her dazed state; she gets up, and looks stunned when she sees the end result of all that’s gone on. She just looks for a few moments; all the other competitors in the match are down, and the ring is being occupied by what are certainly not friendly forces. The sensible course of action would be to back off… but AK does the exact opposite. She slowly gets on the apron and steps through the ropes, and neither Hitman nor the Senator attempt to stop her. She pauses a couple of feet from Hunter, who by now is aware that something is going on. He turns around, very slowly.

Their eyes meet, and the moment stretches; those in the ring, and all those on the outside, know how things will end without having to think about it. But still time drags, and AK just continues to look, asking Hunter for an explanation. For whatever reason, Hunter doesn’t seem able to give it… at least, not yet.

A slight nod is the signal that breaks the calm; Hitman moves forward, and delivers the Zeus’s Anger to AK; she does not attempt to resist him. Their trance broken, the crowd starts booing again, and Hunter’s theme hits as the three men look around them at their handiwork. They take their time doing this, and then slowly leave the ring, heading to the back and at last allowing the medics to attend to their victims. Hunter though keeps glancing back over his shoulder…

We now fade back into the ring and Hitman is seen laughing. The fans continue booing.

Hitman: "Ha ha ha! I've had a good laugh for the time being but now... it's over, RDK. Get your 'jabroni' ass down to this ring so I can show you what it's like to see your own blood stain the mat. RDK... YOU WILL FEEL THE WRATH OF MY FURY, THE WRATH OF THE SENATORIAL STABLE AND MOST IMPORTANTLY... THE WRATH OF THE GODS! GET DOWN HERE NOW!!!"

Hitman drops the mic and throws a punch in midair. He then holds the ropes open for his opponent as "Macho Man" hits and the fans have torn the roof off of the building as Philip raises his mic to his mouth again trying to introduce Hitman's scheduled opponent over the crowd cheering.

Philip: "And his opponent, from Yellowknife, NWT, weighing in at 270 lbs, he is one-half of the ACW Tag Team Champions, 'The Macho Man' R-D-K!"

RDK comes out and the response is overwhelming for the former ACW World Champion. He stares down Hitman who is waiting impatiently for his arch-nemesis to arrive. However, RDK has not come alone... Out comes AK with her tag title belt. She looks up at Hitman then at the ground. AK is then comforted with an arm around her shoulder... That arm belongs to Latino! As if that wasn't enough, BK London steps out on the entrance ramp, still wanting revenge on the monster after he screwed him out of the International title. Santiago now looks concerned and with every reason to be. Hitman growls, not expecting RDK to have this kind of backup with him. RDK rolls into the ring and mounts on the second turnbuckle, raising his tag title in the air while millions of fans get the pictures they desire.

Bell rings.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Hitman has had enough of waiting around as he attacks RDK from behind and decks him with a huge right hand. The seven foot plus monster demands that the cage be lowered and his request is slowly granted. The cage has now enclosed the ring as Hitman pounds on RDK with punishing elbows to the back of the head. RDK tries desperately to fight back but Hitman has not let his opponent get any advantage whatsoever. Hitman then gets RDK in a pumphandle position and drops him into the canvas with the Poseidon's Curse II. BK shakes the cage angrily as he yells at RDK to get up. AK and Latino clap on RDK as Hitman picks up the Macho Man. With his power, he tosses RDK into the cage wall. The Macho Man's head bounces off the mesh as the fans look on horrified. Hitman does not finish yet as he picks up RDK once more and throws him into the spot where RDK's head landed. Hitman then smiles and makes an "It's done" motion as he picks up RDK once more and throws him into the same spot again. However, a hole is made through the cage and RDK's limp body lands on the outside. The fans go nuts as the bell rings. Hitman looks pissed off to say the least as Philip's announcement is made.

Philip: "The winner of the match, 'The Macho Man' RDK!"

RDK is laying on the outside of the cage, still trying to come to terms with what happened after he hears his name as the winner. He slowly begins to get up and the referee makes his way toward RDK and raises his hand in triumph. Hitman is also just coming to terms with what happened and now his anger can be seen growing and growing. He begins to kick the cage, and it shakes on impact but on the other side of the ring the crowd witness BK deliver an earth shattering Shades of Michaels on Santiago before climbing up as if he were the human fly. BK stands on the top of the cage and he looks down at the man who delivered one of the most devastating attacks to him last Thursday. He has promised retribution but it was delayed, now he finally as a chance to take him out. The crowd is going wild and Hitman turns around and BK hits a crossbody off the cage that would seem as if he defied gravity.

BK lands on the giant behemoth, taking him down to the mat before unleashing his fury with a set of lefts and rights. Hitman begins to block up, trying to demean the each stiff shot as BK continues attacking him. Suddenly on the alphatron, The Capitalists can be seen approaching a guy from behind while he is standing by some contraption. Both Anthony and Kevin hit the crew worker with a few hard blows before taking control of the machine, after pressing a few buttons the Steel Cage begins to rise from the ring.

BK continues the battering as the cage rises up around them. Latino and RDK spot this on the camera and they run backstage to meet up with The Capitalists, leaving Hitman and BK in the ring all alone. BK is already in the corner Tuning up the Band, waiting for Hitman to rise up. Suddenly, as BK is about to push of his leg to prepare for the superkick his leg is grabbed by the ACW Champion Hunter, and BK is pulled groin first into the ring post. Anguish and pain can be seen already shown on the face of BK, and Senator enters the ring and begins delivering some stiff soccer kicks to the head of BK while Hunter continues to trap his legs on the ring post. Hunter relinquishes his legs and grabs his belt before setting him up in the middle of the ring. They plan to deliver the same fate that Hunter intiated on Latino earlier this week as Hunter has him in position for the Shotgun.

Latino and RDK burst from backstage, obviously done dealing with The Capitalists and BK is hoisted high in the air. They begin to sprint faster down to the ring, hoping to cease the beatdown towards their unlikely companion. But before they reach the ring the gun goes off and the attack is initiated, making BK feel the full force of the Shotgun on the ACW Championship. BK lays out cold in the center of the ring and finally Latino and RDK enter the ring. Latino and RDK make a valiant effort to stop the trio of Hitman, Hunter, and The Senator from doing more damage but soon the numbers game catches up to them. The crowd can’t believe that they’re about to see a re-run of Monday’s carnage, but a ray of hope then shines in the arena as Atomic Kitsune appears on the stage.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

With an expression that is getting colder by the second, she makes her way down to the ring and walks up to Hunter, the architect of the piece. The crowd roars for action; AK and Hunter stare at one another, and AK’s gaze is withering in its conveyed opinion of the stable’s actions. This gets under Hunter’s skin, and he throws a punch – but AK catches it, and then smashes Hunter with an elbow, her action clearly defensive but none the less powerful for that. AK takes it straight to the ACW Champion Hunter while both Latino and RDK, who have gained a few seconds to recover in the interim, go to work on once more on Senator and Hitman. Hunter manages to get a kick in the stomach of AK and then he whips her into the ropes. As AK touches the ropes she makes sure to hold onto it, Hunter rushes toward her to deliver a crushing clothesline but AK ducks and pulls down the top rope, sending him flying over the top rope. Latino tosses Senator over the top rope and then completes the double team with RDK to clothesline Hitman of the Gods over the top rope. RDK, Latino, and AK seem to stand tall in the ring, inviting the Senatorial Stable back for more but they choose to retreat.

Back in the ring BK London himself is staggering up from the vicious move by Hunter. RDK in his kindness approaches BK to help him up but Latino knows to stay away from him. As BK gets up he shoves RDK and looks at him with an angry look. RDK mouths "What the hell?" to BK as he continues to stare menacingly at RDK before speaking his mind.

BK: I don't need your help! I don't need anyone's help!

RDK attempts to reason with his foe and he says that we can only work as a team to stop them but BK continues to be stubborn. RDK puts his hand on BK's shoulder but he pushes it off and makes his way towards the ropes. RDK watches BK but he doesn't predict what would happen next. BK lands a quick and decisive Shades of Michaels to the jaw of RDK, laying him out on the mat. BK stares down at RDK for a moment and it looks like Latino is about to step up but AK grabs his hand and pulls him back, knowing what this could escalate to. BK looks up at Latino and AK and then looks back down and RDK before exiting the ring. He makes his way to the back to a chorus of boos as back in the ring Latino and AK tend to RDK. RDK sits up holding his jaw as BK disappears behind the curtains, and the crowd is left shocked and dismayed by this turn of events as the show concludes.

The conflict between many of ACW’s leading lights shows no sign of slowing down… but with their targets starting to fight back, have the Senatorial Stable created a situation they can’t control?

Or will BK’s determination to work alone bring more trouble to those around him?

And how will the many other disputes within the federation develop?

The time for battle approaches… Ragnarok draws closer, and mighty powers will be made… and broken…

Fade to Black.

End of Show.

[BK London]

*looks down at RDK for five minutes*

*walks off*

Awesome show. Latino (feat. BK) vs Hunter and Senator was great.