Thursday Night Meltdown 6th July 2006

[hunter]

ACW PRESENTS:
BEST OF THURSDAY NIGHT MELTDOWN: APRIL 2006 – JUNE 2006

No damn intros this time; you people never read them anyways. Now let’s do this thing.

[hunter]

Segment: Opportunity Calls (Credit: Rose)

About A Week Ago...

[/b][/center]

It’s not uncommon for a man to wake up one day and come to the realization that his life has lost its luster. For Jack Conner, every single morning for over 3 months has been this way. Not long ago, he’d see her…hear her…feel her…next to him. Now, he finds himself completely and utterly alone. The sunlight peeking into his room offers him no solace, instead it is a constant reminder that he’s in for yet another day without her…another day alone.

Yes, for Jack Conner, life has indeed lost its luster.

With a forlorn sigh, Jack sits up and gazes out into the distance. He’s not a young man by any means, but he somehow looks a great deal older than one would expect. His eyes look as if they’ve seen to much too much slip away. He hasn’t heard from his estranged son in years, his own daughter and granddaughter rarely visit anymore, and his wife was taken from him by the one thing he couldn’t stop. Never before in his life has he felt so weak…so powerless.

He puts on a worn, faded pair of blue jeans and walks unsteadily towards the adjacent bathroom. When he reaches the sink, he turns on the faucet and casually tosses some water onto his face. Just as he grabs a towel from the nearby rack, the familiar sound of his telephone’s loud ringing sends him off to look for it. He figures that it’s probably a bill collector of some sort, but he’s privately hoping that his little granddaughter is calling a little early today. Maybe it’s her…maybe she’s---


Voice: Hey Outlaw, this—

Jack is taken aback by the gruff, overly cheerful the voice. For one, he hasn’t heard anybody call him by his gimmick in quite a while. Secondly, this man sounds very familiar… Too familiar… Oh Lord, it’s…

Voice: Is Vince McMahon.

It’s been a while. The last time Jack saw the younger Vince McMahon, they were both at the beginning stages of their careers. He hasn’t lived under a rock all these years, and is well aware that Vince is now the most powerful man in the business.

Conner: Howdy Vinnie. How ya been?

Vince McMahon: Eh, I can’t complain. Trying to get into shape for Mania—it’s this Sunday—and looking forward to becoming a grandfather again in a few months, yourself?

Conner: Well… I’ve been helluva lot better, to tell ya the truth. I don’t know if you’ve heard or not, but my wife passed away recently.

Vince McMahon is probably a good man at heart, but he’s also a man who knows opportunity when he sees it. So, like the master manipulator that he is, he begins to weave his web.

Vince McMahon: I’m sorry to hear that. It’s a damn shame, she was a wonderful woman. I wish I could have known her better.

Conner: I ain’t got too much to live for now, really. This ranch is so damn lonely and all it does is get me deeper into debt every damn day. It’s just too much sometimes.

Vince finally has his opening, and like a pro, he takes it.

Vince McMahon: Well Jack, coincidentally, I happen to have a proposition for you.

Conner: I reckoned you didn’t call just to say hello…

Vince McMahon: The Hall of Fame Ceremony and Wrestlemania 22 are this weekend, and I would be honored if you were to attend. I’ll fly you up to Chicago and you can spend the weekend meeting old friends and considering my second offer.

Conner: And what’s your second offer?

Vince McMahon: We could use another road agent and, if you’re up to it, we could even have you come in to wrestle on a part-time basis. In fact—

BEEP![/b]

Conner: Excuse me, somebody is on the other line. I’ll be right back after I get em’ off.

Jack switches over to the other line, and prepares to get whoever this is off the line as quick as possible.

Conner: Howdy.

Voice: Hello. This isn’t The Rock by any chance, is it?

Conner: No, I’m sorry, you’ve got the wrong nu—

Voice: Listen, don’t try to play this game with me. I know The Rock is a very busy man, but tell him that The Chairman of Alpha Championship Wrestling is on the line, and that he is going to an offer that he simply CANNOT refuse.

Conner: You’ve got the wrong number. I’m Jack Conner, and I have an important call from Vince McMahon on the other line. I ain’t got time to listen to you yap like a madman. So, just get—

Chairman Ginger: Wait wait wait. Vince McMahon, you say?

Conner: Yeah, that’d be him.

After years of trying, Ginger finally has a chance to get another one-up on Vince McMahon. He doesn’t know who this Conner character is, but he’s now resolved to sign him before Vince does. He hasn’t had a coup this big since the time he got Edge and Lita to kinda…sorta…not really…jump ship.

Chairman Ginger: Mr. Conner, have you signed anything at all yet?

Conner: Nah, I ain’t signed anything yet. Now, I’m askin’ ya nicely—

Chairman Ginger: Whatever he’s offering you, I’ll DOUBLE IT!

It goes without saying that Jack is very confused by this point.

Conner: Do you even have any idea who I am? I’ve ain’t ever heard of you in my entire life.

Ginger decides to do something that he’s actually quite skilled at, and that’s bluff.

Chairman Ginger: Of course I do Mr. Conner, I’m a HUGE fan of yours and I think our organization could use somebody like you.

Conner: OK. I don’t know what the hell is going on here. I’ve been retired forever, and I ain’t heard a word from hardly anybody until today. I’m gonna put you onto the other line with Vince, and we’re gonna get this straightened out. What’s your number.

Chairman Ginger: It’s [This Number Is Edited By Those Damn Fascists At Alpha Championship Wrestling].

Jack switches back over to Vince McMahon.

Conner: Vinnie, ya still there?

Vince McMahon: Yes.

Conner: Sorry that took so long, but a damn lunatic from some Apha Wrestling thing called and wants me to work for him.

When Vince McMahon hears this, something about his demeanor begins to change. He starts to become a little more…forceful. Now that he’s aware of his competitors, he starts to act more like the man everybody knows from television. He becomes Mr. McMahon.

Mr. McMahon: Oh really? Well, I’ll tell you right now, just hang up on him. Alpha Championship Wrestling is a two-bit organization and all they’re even remotely known for his having childish over-the-top theatrics. They even have a female world champion, for christsakes.

Conner: I’ve decided that I’ll just put him on and I’ll let ya’ll both make your offers to me at the same time. It’s only fair.

Mr. McMahon: You shouldn’t give that damn fool the time of day!

Jack dials Ginger’s number, and in seconds, this semi-historic meeting begins.

Chairman Ginger: Hello Vince, it’s good that we finally get to talk.

Vince, of course, doesn’t even dignify Ginger by acknowledging his existence.

Mr. McMahon: Listen Jack, I want to do you a favor. I know that you’re in a very precarious financial situation right now and I want to give you a job.

Chairman Ginger: That’s the difference between me and him, I don’t want to do you a favor. I want to give you an opportunity. He probably wants you to sign one of those legends contracts, maybe work on some of his DVDs, and probably job you out to some up-and-coming heel each year when they pass nearby your hometown. I want to—

Mr. McMahon: Jack, are you still listening to this idiot?

Conner: As best I can. I think he was getting to the point.

Chairman Ginger: You’re very correct, Mr. Conner. I am getting right to the point. If you’re able, I’ll let you be an active member of my roster and you’ll make a lot more than Vince would ever pay you. Furthermore, I’ll let you get going as quick as possible. On the 4th, we’ll be leaving to take a tour of the Caribbean and I want you to come along with us. I’ll book you against somebody so you can shake of your ring rust, and you’ll be able to get a good vacation while you’re at it.

Mr. McMahon: That is preposterous. You want to have a wrestling show on a boat? That’s near impossible, and you’re a fool to consider it. To top it off, it’s a considerable waste of money. I don’t even know why I’m doing this, but take some advice from me. If you keep spending money the way that you do, you’re going to end up in the poor house and I’m going to end up with a new footage for my library.

Chairman Ginger: Oh please, this is coming from the man who started the World Bodybuilding Federation and XFL.

Burn.

Mr. McMahon: Listen. I’m Vincent Kennedy McMahon DAMMIT, and if you talk to me that way one more time, then I might be forced to take a second look at your precious ACW. It’s been nothing but a gnat to me, so far, but it’s gnat that you may just force me to squash!

Chairman Ginger: Please Vince, do you listen to what you say? That is the silliest thing that—

Conner: Could you both calm down for a little bit? I think I’ve come to a decision.

Chairman Ginger: Oh?

Mr. McMahon: Yes, lets hear it.

Conner: Vince, I reckon I’ll come up and watch your Hall of Fame Ceremony and Wrestlemania.

Vince laughs that slightly maniacal laugh of his.

Chairman Ginger: Why you—

Mr. McMahon: Thank you very much. I assure you that you won’t regret it. Oh, and better luck next time Mr.—

Conner: And I also want to accept the offer from ACW. I’ll accept both of your offers and make my decision at a latter date. How does that sound?

Jack knows better than to burn either of his bridges at this time. He’s maneuvered them into a point where he’ll at least get an interesting week out of the deal, even if he finally decides that he won’t accept either one of their offers.

Mr. McMahon: If anything, I prefer your idea Jack. Once you see what kind of degenerate organization ACW is, I have no doubt that you’ll join the WWE family in a heartbeat.

Chairman Ginger: I’m perfectly fine with it as well. Oh, and I think he’ll make up his mind once he realizes that you have a champion who doesn’t know a wristlock from a wristwatch.

Mr. McMahon: Spare me the clichés! At least our champion isn’t at risk of taking time off for maternal leave!

Chairman Ginger: Well, at least our champion… You know what? Alicia Kitsune could take John Cena any day.

Mr. McMahon: Don’t make me—

Finally, Jack gets to say something again.

Conner: Guys, as much as I’d love to stay… I need to make some arrangements. So, I’ll be off.

Conner hangs up.

Mr. McMahon:…

Chairman Ginger:…

Mr. McMahon:…

Chairman Ginger: Say Vince, could you possibly get the The Rock’s phone number?

Mr. McMahon hangs up the phone and Ginger’s quest to sign The Great One is momentarily stalled.

Chairman Ginger: Oh well, we have RDK.

Fade to black

[hunter]

Segment: I’m The Juggernaut (Credit: Yoko)

The segment opens at the front of the cruise ship, pointed toward the ocean. A single person is standing as far toward the tip as possible. Yoko Satoshi is looking off into infinity. Someone else comes running up behind her. It is Sarin.

Sarin: Yoko, where were you? I went to check on you, it’s almost time for your match!

Yoko: I was just here.

Sarin: Usually you’re preparing for matches in your locker room.

Yoko: It’s too pretty out here to stay inside. Besides, it’s just Santiago.

Sarin: What are you looking at, anyway?

Yoko: The ocean! It’s just pretty.

Sarin: But you’ve seen the ocean before. You look troubled, what’s wrong?

Yoko: I’m just…not used to boats.

Sarin: Are you afraid of water or something?

Yoko: Shut up!

Sarin: Excuse me if I find that hilarious, I’m sorry. Everything you’ve done and everything that you’ve faced…Mercer Stanton, death matches, Ridley, and you’re afraid of some water? I’d be more worried about that cage match on Monday that you mentioned.

Yoko: That’s just Hunter. Hunter in a cage. No problem there. I know water is stupid, that’s why I’m here at the front of the boat.

Sarin: You’re facing your fear, how brave. But come back to the main deck, your match is in like a few minutes.

Yoko puts one foot up onto the frontal railing.

Sarin: What are you doing?!

Yoko: Help me out here and hold me steady, I trust you. There’s something I want to do.

Sarin steps up to Yoko’s back and wraps her arms around her from behind. Yoko puts her other leg on the other railing.

Yoko: Now push me up!

Sarin: Oh, I don’t believe this…

Sarin pushes her up, supporting her under her arms while Yoko stands on the tip of the boat’s rails. Yoko stretches her arms out while looking into the distance.

Yoko: I’M THE QUEEN OF THE WORLD!

Yoko laughs and Sarin pulls her back down carefully.

Sarin: Are you happy now?

Yoko: Quite. To the match!

Yoko grabs Sarin by the hand and runs for the main deck.

End Segment.

[hunter]

Match: ACW Entertainment Title Match - Fatal Fourway (Credit: Tornado)

The sun is setting and the huge floodlights are on as we reach what promises to be a great match. The small contingent of fans on the boat are sure to be in for a treat with this match.

Philip: The following contest is an Entertainment Title Fatal Fourway; the first person to gain a pinfall of submission will become the new Entertainment Champion!! Introducing first; he is a member of The Untouchables and is the defending ACW Entertainment Champion…”The Next Big Thing”…Tornado!!

The sound of “Diary of a Madman” by The Gravediggaz hits the speakers and the result is instantaneous…massive boos. The fans clearly dislike Tornado with a passion but he doesn’t seem to care as he poses on the stage as his pyros explode. He flips off the fans before running down to the ring and leaping onto the apron; flipping forward over the top rope to enter the ring. He then leaps onto a turnbuckle and poses once more, this time patting the gold around his waist, before backflipping onto his feet. He hands his title to the timekeeper and crouches, facing the ramp.

Philip: Introducing next, from Berlin, Germany and weighing in at 300lbs…Rawt “The Crippler” Ross!!

Another resounding boo from the crowd as “Another One Bites The Dust” hits and a small pyro bursts out of the stage. Rawt walks quickly out; he looks fired up for tonight’s match after being unable to defeat Tornado in his last title match, which ended in a Double Count-Out. He stands on the stage and runs his hands across his waist before striding purposefully down to the ring. He slides in and instantly he and Tornado go eyeball-to-eyeball; the crowd spur them on, knowing full well these two men have a history. Tornado was the man who relieved Rawt of the Junior Title…will Rawt repay the favour tonight?

Philip: Introducing, from Columbus, Ohio; he is also a member of The Untouchables…Mr. Red!!

Mr. Red receives a huge pop from the fans “Reptile” hits and he walks out; it is clear who the crowd favourite is. At this point Tornado breaks his stare-down with Rawt to gaze upon his stablemate and tag team partner…are Code Red still a team? Who knows? Red slides into the ring and Tornado drags him to his feet before he even tries to get up. The two shout obscenities at each other as the ref breaks it up.

Philip: Last but not least…introducing the final challenger, from Orlando, Florida; weighing in at 297lbs…”The Vision of Greatness”…Rattlesnake!!

Two green spotlight shine across the fans and stop at the top of the entrance ramp. The spotlights quickly shut off shortly after. The words "Don't fear the reaper, fear the Rattler" echo throughout the arena followed by "Blind" by Silverchair. The spotlights flicker back on as a huge surge of green pyros blast off with a huge cloud of smoke. As the smoke clears, Rattlesnake appears in the spotlights. He slowly walks down the ramp and looks at the fans as he passes. He stops to look around and smirks. He slowly raises his arms to the boos of the fans. He starts walking down to the ring again. He walks up and steps into the ring. He walks over to the turnbuckle and climbs it. He looks around as flashbulbs continuously go off. He smirks and jumps down.

There is a massive amount of personal issues on the line in this match. Tornado/Red…Tornado/Rawt; both could prove to be crucial in the outcome of the match. The crowd are really hyped up and chants of “Red” are already in full flow before the bell has even rung. The 4 men are backed into their respective corners before the contest can begin.

Bell Rings.

Tornado and Red instantly fly at each, no hesitations, Tornado coming better off by managing to twist and hit Red in the face with a high-velocity dropkick. However, everyone seems to be gunning for the champ as both Rawt and Rattlesnake grab him and drag him up. Rawt hooks Tornado’s arms behind his back and ‘Snake lands repeated blows to the champ’s face. After receiving around 10 shots Tornado ducks and ‘Snake catches Rawt in the face. This sets them off into a brawl and Tornado is finally free but on spinning round he is floored by a Running Bicycle Kick courtesy of Mr. Red which receives a huge pop from the crowd. He covers…

1

…Tornado gets his shoulder up before the 2 count. The crowd boo as Tornado rakes Red’s eyes and floors him with a Spinning Scissors Kick. Meanwhile, on the outside, Rawt and ‘Snake are duking it out; both big men trying to incorporate their power. Overall, Rawt seems to have the upper hand. He confirms this by smashing Rattlesnake’s head off the steel steps and following it up with a devastating Inverted Sitdown Piledriver to the concrete floor, which causes the crowd to wince in pain…even if they seem to have little sympathy for “The Vision of Greatness”. Rawt slides back into the ring and blindsides Tornado, hitting a Running Big Boot to the back of his head. He covers…

1

…but the count is broken by Red who receives a massive pop from the crowd which is followed by a loud chorus of boos as Rawt hits him with an Atomic Drop. Outside, ‘Snake is slowly getting to his feet, a nasty scowl painted across his face. He slides into the ring as Rawt and Tornado lock-up; Rawt uses his impressive power to drive Tornado back to the turnbuckle, but he didn’t become Entertainment Champ for nothing and frees himself with a thumb to Rawt’s eye after which Tornado hoists himself onto the top of the turnbuckle. He leaps off, hitting the staggering Rawt with a Top Rope Zerosen Kick which connects with his face; some members of the crowd cheer, clearly high-flying fans, some boo and others simply begin a “Let’s go Red” chant – it is obvious that he’s the only one in the ring who’ll receive any love of these fans tonight. Tornado covers…

1

2

[hunter]

…Red and ‘Snake simultaneously drag Tornado off Rawt and each takes a man to go head-to-head with. Therefore, we end up with a situation similar to earlier; Red vs. Tornado and Rawt vs. ‘Snake. However, this time the roles have been reversed, it is Red and ‘Snake who are on top in their respective battles. ‘Snake hits Rawt with a ring-shaking Spinebuster as Red hits Tornado with an Orton-Style Backbreaker. Red the turns to face Rattlesnake and the two begin trading blows, Red knows that with someone who possesses the brawling ability of Rattlesnake it’s a mistake to go toe-to-toe with them. This is the reason Red changes what he is doing and goes for a Leg Lariat but is blocked by ‘Snake who smirks and sees an opportunity to show off his strength, launching Red over the top rope and into the safety barrier, much to the chagrin of the crowd. ‘Snake spins around and is met by a Jumping Axe Kick from Tornado who then ejects ‘Snake from the ring. That leaves Tornado and Rawt to square off in the middle of the ring once again. Tornado takes the initiative, charging at Rawt and pulling off a Running Headscissors Takedown. Wasting no time, Tornado drags Rawt to his feet and hits him with the Cyclone Driver (Sunset Flip Piledriver). The crowd groan as they see the end in sight…

1

2

Thr--NO!! Red breaks up the pin on the verge of the 3-count and Tornado is fuming. He drops Red down with a DDT and picks him back up again only to hit him with a Brainbuster. The crowd boo furiously as the Entertainment Champ stomps all over Mr. Red. On the outside Rattlesnake is rising up, but Tornado cuts him off with his Suicide Dive, which connects perfectly. In-ring Rawt is surprisingly already up. He is a little groggy but grabs the downed Mr. Red and lifts him up…hitting the Bomb Drop. He covers…

1

2

3!

Philip: Here is your winner, and NEW ACW Entertainment Champion...RAWT!!

…Tornado is millimetres away from making the save but Rawt is jubilous. The ref hands him the belt and he celebrates, clutching his new prize to his chest. Tornado is furious and is seemingly going to blindside the man who just took his title from him but instead he looks at the forlorn figure of Red, the man who got pinned. Tornado grabs him by the hair and shouts into his face “You cost me my title…I’ll kill you for this!” He then storms off, in the sort of rage many people have never seen before.

Meanwhile, Rawt continues to celebrate. The crowd are cheering what was a very entertaining match. They seem disappointed about the outcome but still give Rawt his dues…he thoroughly deserves to be Champion.

Fade Out.

[hunter]

Segment: A Macho Review (Credit: RDK)

The show opens to fireworks and the entire arena screams as the sun begins to go down… and as we’re in Kingston Independence Park, Jamaica, that’s a seriously big scream. The outdoor arena is packed to bursting, with everyone from dedicated ACW followers to curious locals represented in the crowd. This is going to be a night to remember…

To kick things off, "Macho Man" by the Village People blats through the PA. The crowd is ballistic, The Macho Man making an entrance to kick off the show, it looks to be an exciting night. He enters down the ramp with his sunglasses set in a superb fashion on his face. He looks in the air and takes a deep breath through his nostrils, soaking in the appreciation from all the machomaniacs in the crowd tonight. His ensemble that he wears tonight bears black dress pants and a tight white t-shirt. He struts down to the ring to his music and slaps hands with some of the fans and then goes up the steel steps with a spring in his, well, step. As he enters the ring he runs to each turnbuckle, taking a five second pose on each while raising one arm in the air, while thousands of flashes are produced from the photographs being taken of him. Once he is finished he struts around the middle of the ring and reveals he has a mic in his hand. He looks up at the sky and raises his arm, pointing the mic downwards at his mouth....

Randy: OoOoOoH Yeaaaah!!!!

At the announcement of this now immortal catchphrase, the fans all pretty much simultaneously raise their hands in the air into a clenched fist and respond....

OoOoOoOoH Yeaaaaah!

Randy: The Macho Motel is STILL open for business jabronis, brudahs and machomaniacs alike! Tell your friends, tell your hoes, tell the press, cause there’s a two five ass whuppins' for the price of one deal that is for a unlimited time only! Thats right, you heard it from THE People's Champion!

RDK walks around while nodding his head, showing off his content look.

Randy: ...So I was thinking, why not give an ANALYSATION on this whole rebirth of the Corporate Alliance jabroni bullshit? I mean, I am SURE the PEOPLE want to know The Macho Mayun's two cents on the matter, am I correct? If you want to hear, The Macho Mayun give his opinion on the Jackson Five, GIVE ME AN OoOoH Yeah!

RDK cups his ear with his hand...

OoOoOoOoH Yeaaaaah!

Randy: THE PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN!

"Macho Man, Macho Man, Macho Man!"

Randy: Where should I start? The Macho Mayun will keep it as short as he can, because he wants to let the Corporate Alliance know that, come dick or jane or Chris Mclane, The message will be sent! The Macho Man is NOT afraid to fight any of the jackasses in this ensemble we got here...roll the tape!

The mini alphatron flashes to reveal a picture....

The reaction the crowd gives is obvious, RDK just smiles while pointing at the picture...

Randy: Him and "ALL HIS PRED HEADS" probably would shit three loafs when I say this, but goddayum brudahs, this skinny ass blondy is a no good shit licker to Burger King! Brudahs, it doesn't matter which way you put it, itty bitty, shitty titty....THIS ASS KISSIN BURGER LICKIN' POT STICKIN' JABRONI IS GOING DOWN AFTER THE MACHO-SLAYUM!!!

The crowd clap and cheer in respect of the macho man's words. RDK snaps his fingers and the alphatron changes pictures...

Randy: Chickity China the Chinese Chicken, have a drumstick and you're brain starts tickin'! Chop Suey here, Chow Mein there, like I said with about Predator before, IT DON'T MATTER! He thinks he's a bigshot because he pinned The Macho Mayun? Nooooo way brudah! Step into the ring with me, one on one sometime, and WE WILL SEE, who the MACHO MAYUN is around HERE!

The crowd continue their support as the clip changes...

A huge reaction of cheers and boos floods the area. RDK begins to laugh as he looks at the picture...

Randy: ...There...hahahaha, is no comment for this one...keep them comin'....lets just skip to our final foe...

The ACW International Champion

Randy: WHOOOOOOA, WHOOOOOA, WHOOOA! The Macho Mayun is NOT impressed! Who let this man be International Champion? Oh wait, Burger King did! The People's Champion has been goin day in and day out, on a mission to relieve this man of the championship. I gave him a chance, I took him under my wing, and then...he turned his back, HE TURNED HIS BACK, ON ARRRRR TO THE DEEEE TO THE KAYYY! OoOoOoH NoOoOoOoH!!!!! Genocide, Ultimate X, WE HAD BUSINESSS LEFT UNFINISHED! Last week on Warfare, you snuck up on me and stole a victory! At Fallen Heroes, I challenge you to a match...no funny shit, no stipulations...a straight up wrasslin' match! Fuck, bring your whole Corporate Alliance to ringside if you want to, I DON'T GIVE A FLYING APPLE-JOHN BRUDAH! SO AT FALLEN HEROES ITS GONNA BE THE IRON MAN VERSUS THE MACHO MAYUN IN THE FINAL CONFRONTATION FOR THE A-C-W INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP! AND THAT BRUDAHS, IS GUAR-AN-DAMN-TEEEED!

RDK throws his mic down on the mat and rolls out of the ring, throwing off his sunglasses on his way up the ramp. The fans are ballistic and send him off with a positive reaction. RDK has left a message, and it appears Fallen Heroes will be the final chapter in this long feud....but is it set in stone?

Fade Out.

[hunter]

Segment: A fresh start (Credit: Holocaust)

It was almost time for his match, and John Harris was restless.

“Settle down, c’mon. You can’t be nervous, can you? I mean, yeah, it’s your first match on a big show like this, but… You’re freaking Holocaust. You never get nervous.”

Harris tossed him a glance that conveyed precisely what he would do to the smaller, slimmer man named Seth if he were to infer about his confidence again. And with said inference about the inference, Cowell backed down a little.

“Sorry. But man, buck up a bit. You’ve been damn near killing everything in front of you, you’ve got a huge group behind you now, and yeah I know you’re not too happy. But, think of it like this…”

Seth moved in front of him, arms crossed, his tailored and pressed dress pants making tiny “shwip” sounds as he paced.

“These guys are high rollers. Yeah, you want to find someone who you can’t beat, someone that will actually put up some kind of fight and not get obliterated in the end like all those other guys. But think of this as a hell of a big stepping stone toward that. See… I made a deal. You work as an outside agent for these guys, these Senatorialites, and we make money. A LOT of money.”

He stopped, turning to face the silent and unmoving Holocaust.

“And money means good living. Good food. Good clothes.”

Yeah, for you.

“And it means that if push came to shove, the One-Man World War would have someone to help out if numbers became an issue. Yeah, I know you’re not a people person… The reputation kinda points at that… But you need to bear with me on this. I know what I’m doing and I’ve never let you down before.”

Unless you count those other times.

----------

The screen cut to black, the far off screams and machine gun fire of a pitched battle all that greeted the senses for a time. The screen flicked to the broad, glistening back of a human killing machine for a split second before fading to darkness, noise and static creeping up on the viewer’s vision. The feedback was high-pitched and keening, the vision blurring and then doubling just as the monster began to turn.

The feed cut to a black and white shot of an army marching to war with tanks behind, the steady tramp of feet overlayed with the excited announcer:

“…[scchkt]caust has just laid waste to [sshhft]…”

Closeup shots, uncomfortably close, of the man who’d been singlehandedly responsible for decimating all in his path in one fashion or another in action. No good deed went unpunished, no victory without a swift and brutal counterattack.

“[zzth]all my years of broadcasting, I have never[stcht]…”

The shot flickered to an aerial view of bombs dropping from the hold of a B-12, as they exploded against the cityscape an image of a point of the War Machine combo was superimposed over it in a retrospective. A man, fist raised before the rabid throngs, spoke in a foreign tongue about conquest and victory. Over this was shown the Senatorial Stable as a faction and when the image went back to the crowd the buzzcutted behemoth raised his hands and roared.

That picture faded into nothing, the film grain laying over the view of a small room. Not unlike what had been seen in previous outings of the same nature. Bare bulb swung slowly overhead, but this time the monster faced the camera. Biceps and triceps bulged and shifted under skin as the smaller compatriot smiled.

“It’s begun, hasn’t it? I told you, but no one prepared. Predator didn’t prepare, Fallout didn’t prepare… But My esteemed colleague the Senator prepared. He approached me, wishing to commission this two-legged weapon of mass destruction to do some work for the esteemed Senatorialites. I agreed, naturally, and one very nice paycheck later and the One-Man World War has found his allegiance lying with the most powerful group in ACW.”

The film seemed to run off the reel for a second before aligning itself.

“Hide your women. Lock your children in the basement, because the sheer power of the War Machine will rip the roof off of this stadium. No matter the opponent, no matter the situation, my charge always emerges victorious in the end. Say goodbye to the wife and children, Tornado, they’ll find enough of you after the match to send you back home in a shoe box.”

The film skipped at Holocaust’s wicked smirk spread over his face, the film vibrating and then burning through to leave a white screen that faded gradually to black.

[hunter]

Match: ACW World Title Match
BK London vs. Alicia “Atomic” Kitsune (Credit: AK)

The crowd has certainly enjoyed the novel experience of watching an ACW show on board ship, and things look set to be topped off perfectly by an extremely competitive main event. Philip enters the ring, and thanks the heavens that the weather has been kind to them during this first evening.

Philip: Ladies and Gentlemen, tonight’s main event is a singles match set for one fall, and it is for the ACW World Championship! Introducing first, the challenger… from Brooklyn, New York, at a weight of 237lbs… BK London!

”Hold Ya Head” hits, and the crowd starts to boo as BK walks out on to the small stage platform and then makes his way down the ramp, between the rows of seats to ringside. He enters the ring and gets up on the turnbuckles; he is clearly highly pumped up for this match.

There is a short pause, and then “Fly” plays, generating a wave of cheers from the fans.

Philip: And his opponent, from London, England, at a weight of 135lbs, she is the defending ACW World Champion… Alicia “Atomic” Kitsune!

Alicia pauses on the stage, taking in her new surroundings and feeling the slight sway of the ship beneath her feet. She smiles and walks down the ramp, circling the ring and taking a little time to greet the fans who are pressing forward to see her. Then she enters the ring, and hands the belt respectfully to Raymond Allen Fleming, who holds it aloft in the floodlights’ glare; BK’s eyes remain upon the belt until it is passed to the outside and taken to the timekeeper’s corner.

RAF runs over the rules, giving BK a sharp glance as he does so, and then calls for the bell.

Bell rings.

There’s no lengthy standoff between the competitors in this contest – AK clearly wants to make a point, and so she’s off like an athlete out of the starting blocks, closing the gap to BK and delivering two or three strong kicks to his ribs before the challenger has a chance to respond. BK tenses at the blows but quickly gets back on level terms with a rapid succession of foreams, and then adds a stinging elbow to the sternum that forces AK to back off. Seeing BK’s smirk, AK raises an eyebrow and then turns on the speed, dashing past BK and rebounding off the ropes to charge back at him. BK only has enough time to counter with an armdrag, and AK stays tucked, continuing the roll so that BK is pulled over in likewise fashion. The crowd yells with excitement as AK nips up and tries to stomp BK, but BK’s too quick to be caught out and rolls aside, rising back to his feet in one smooth motion. Still on something of an energy surge, AK rushes at him and jumps into a spinning backward kick; BK bends over backward to dodge, and as AK lands facing away from him BK uses a discuss lariat to the back of AK’s head to momentarily stun her. The crowd cries out in alarm as BK executes his kryptonite krush (Schwein) and makes the first pin of the match, and AK responds by kicking out just before RAF reaches two. There is a momentary flicker of concern from BK, who perhaps was expecting a slightly slower response, and as this thought occupies his mind AK shoves her hand upward, striking BK’s chin with her palm in a manner oddly like that used by one Mercer Stanton a few days previously. She lacks raw power, but it still jars BK in a most uncomfortable manner and creates a chance for AK to pull her foe down and apply a triangle choke. The fans get animated again; BK realizes that he’s in trouble and has to expend a significant amount of energy in order to roll both of them over and grab the nearby ropes. RAF orders the break, and the honors so far are even as both competitors return to a standing position.

Already becoming annoyed, BK’s impressive strength gets a further boost and he seeks to capitalize on it, launching into a fierce direct assault with clubbing forearms and the aim of getting his opponent into a grapple. AK understandably isn’t keen on the arrangement, and slips past BK after a few blows to run to the ropes. Instead of waiting for her to return, however, BK also breaks into a run and delivers a powerful knee clip as AK bounces back and they meet; AK hits the mat hard with a cry of pain, and as she struggles to get back on her feet as fast as possible BK targets the same leg with a dragon screw. It’s undoubtedly a smart strategy, and AK clutches her leg on landing; encouraged, BK moves in and tries to apply his Crown Heights Cloverleaf, but AK isn’t as hurt as he thinks and as soon as he gets in range, AK kicks him fully in the abdomen. BK grunts, feeling the effect of the strike, and staggers back; AK pushes the ongoing ache in her leg out of her mind and whips BK into one of the corners. He hits the turnbuckle back first, and AK takes a gamble, running forward and executing her Liger Kick for a loud pop from the fans. Fortunately for her, BK doesn’t quite react in time and the move connects; AK rights herself and then builds on the theme with a Monkey Flip to clear BK from the ropes before making a pin. RDK counts, 1…..2- BK kicks out, and there is a groan from some of the crowd members, though most are hoping this enthralling contest continues a little while longer. AK looks reasonably confident as she stands up- but her momentary lapse of concentration is immediately punished by BK, who lunges forward and knees her in the gut, applies a headlock and from there performs his Devil Lock DDT. RAF counts his second pin in less than 30 seconds, 1…2..- AK gets a shoulder up, and inwardly berates herself for the error. She can’t afford many slips like that, or this title reign could be no longer than her first.

[hunter]

The thought of losing the title she worked so hard for galvanizes AK into action. She rolls out from underneath BK and nips up, and as BK moves in rapidly she feigns a kick with one foot and as BK commits to a sidestep she swiftly reverses it, whacking BK viciously in the ribs. BK’s eyes widen a little at the impact and in anger he punches directly at his foe; AK neatly turns, grabs his arm so that she is facing away from him and mule kicks him square in the chest, simultaneously pulling him forward into the strike to maximize the impact. BK gasps as air is forcibly ejected from his body, and AK follows it by snapping her arm up and driving the back of her fist into BK’s face between the eyes. As his vision swims, BK isn’t able to see AK turn around once again as she lets go, and the fans roar as she lets fly with a Gamengiri kick, throwing her entire body into it so that both she and BK collapse on to the mat. AK scrambles into the pin, 1…..2- but she releases it of her own accord a fraction of a second before BK gets his shoulder up. The fans are momentarily confused, and then they see what AK caught sight of out of the corner of her eye; Kiley is approaching the ring, and she starts to shout at RAF, accusing him of counting too slowly on BK’s pins. The crowd boo as RAF argues with Kiley; AK pulls herself to her feet, keeping an eye on BK who is also stirring from his groggy state. Something in AK’s unconscious picks up on the momentary look of surprise on the faces of the fans opposite her, and without questioning it she instinctively spins around with a high-angled roundhouse kick. The look of shock on Predator’s face is instantly captured by a number of alert fans with cameras (and will probably be on the internet in a few hours accompanied by various “Owned!!!LOLZ!11!!!” comments); still recovering, BK can only watch as Predator stumbles comically backward, and AK smiles before moving to the ropes. The crowd, loving every second, goes mental as AK jumps up on the ropes and runs along them before springboarding off into a trademark Dragonrana. The force of the throw sends Predator right over the top rope… and straight into the unsuspecting Kiley. The pair crash to the ground, and are left in a stunned heap as RAF turns back to see AK and BK facing one another across the ring…

AK’s expression has lost its usual warmth; instead, she regards BK coldly with what almost amounts to contempt for his underhand tactics. That look in turn makes BK furious, and then the moment breaks and the pair launch themselves at one another. This time there is no hint of restraint, and both superstars give out and take a great deal of punishment as they strive to find that knockout blow. In such a situation, BK’s superior raw power comes to the fore; he drives AK back to the corner, and to the fans’ dismay he blasts through AKs defenses until she starts to slide down against the post, her pupils dilating and contracting as her brain struggles to deal with the “SOS” signals coming in from all over her body. BK’s cocky manner is nowhere to be seen now; he’s all business, and he brings AK out of the corner with an Overhead Belly to Belly suplex that makes the whole ring shake. The fans are all on their feet; they shout and yell, willing AK to find a way out of this, and as she tries to stand, BK starts to tune the band. Some of the fans try to warn AK as BK moves forward, and AK somehow dodges – but BK was expecting this, and at the last moment aborts the Shades of Michaels and switches to the Revolver. It connects, and the fans are horrified as BK makes the pin, 1…..2….-

AK snaps her eyes open, and thrusts an arm in the air; the 900 fans roar as if they were 10 times that number, and AK thrashes BK off of her and kips back up to her feet. Defiance personified, she strides around the ring, getting the fans even more hyped up; BK, in his fatigued state, loses sight of her for a critical second, and as he swings around trying to find her, he turns directly into AK’s EMP (the re-christened R-15 kick). It’s a system shutdown for the challenger, and BK crumples holding his head; AK takes a step forward to make the pin…

…but this time she doesn’t see the threat in time; the two masked men come out of the crowd from either side, and one punches AK in the shoulder as the other kicks her in the stomach. The fans are incensed and boo furiously, and RAF is just as livid; he waves his arms and shouts at once for the bell as the attack continues right before his eyes. Philip is as distracted as everyone else, but has enough professionalism to make the necessary announcement.

Philip: Ladies and Gentlemen…as is probably self-evident- whoa! Someone get security, who are these guys?...the winner of this match as a result of a disqualification, and still ACW World Champion, Alicia “Atomic” Kitsune!

[hunter]

AK valiantly tries to defend herself, and is just about managing to keep her assailants at bay as RAF bellows at the ring crew to find out where security is. As this is going on, BK recovers back to his feet; he shouts to Kiley, who with Predator is now picking herself up, and Kiley promptly retrieves BK’s barbed wire chair from its hiding place under the ring. RAF is still shouting at the masked men, and so doesn’t see BK stalking him; the fans boo even more loudly as BK hits his Shades of Michaels on to the head referee, sending him out of the ring and rendering him insensible.

Kiley slides the chair into the ring, and as the fans cry out in anger and dismay BK grabs it and cracks AK over the head, opening up a bleeding wound. Sluggish streams of crimson start to work their way down her cheek on the right hand side, and following BK’s instructions, the masked men haul her over to the ropes and use them to restrain her. AK is understandably having trouble staying focused, so BK takes a mic from Predator and gives her a hard slap across the face to make sure he has her attention before speaking.

BK: Atomic! You really thought you had nothing to worry about didn't you? You really thought that this was going to be a cake walk didn't you? I told you that you don't posses that killer instinct side to hold the ACW Title. Just about a year ago I started a movement, created an alliance that gave me that edge to win the ACW Championship......A Corporate Alliance.

The fans are already seeing where this is going, and a huge storm of boos breaks out. AK struggles to escape her bonds, but BK simply slaps her again.

BK: You have what I want AK, and I'm going to rip the ACW Championship away from you and make your life a living hell. But first let's introduce the two people, partly responsible for this grand plan....

He gestures toward the two mysterious men. Slowly they remove their masks… and the booing becomes almost painfully loud as the crowd see Jake Cheng and Santiago Rivera standing there. Jake and Santiago shake hands with BK, and as this takes place, the final piece in the puzzle is revealed as Chairman Ginger walks out and down to the ring. He enters it, flanked by Kiley and Predator, and all six members of the new Corporate Alliance look extremely pleased with themselves. Ginger is unfazed by all the negativity from the crowd, and simply turns up his mic to speak over them.

Ginger: There is a very simple reason that I have allowed events to unfold as they have this evening. Last week, this company came close to utter disaster, a disaster that was in part caused by my own lack of control over what goes on here. I am not afraid to admit the mistake… and I assure you, it will not occur again.

The fans become quieter; they want to hear Ginger’s justification, even if they think it stinks.

Ginger: When BK came to me shortly after Genocide, at first I was not in favour of the idea that he proposed. But, dare I say it, events since have made me a wiser man. By forging a new Corporate Alliance, I and the greatest talents of this company will ensure that the future is stable, secure and prosperous… at least, it will be for its members. And before anyone gets the wrong idea, this isn’t some sort of personal vendetta… Miss Kitsune simply happens to be in possession of that which we must possess to properly oversee the running of-

??: BULLSHIT, PENDEJO!!

The crowd erupts with cheering as the door to the upper deck bursts open, and Latino comes storming out with RDK close behind him. They break into a run, and the fans go nuts as they dash toward the ring-

Ginger: Both of you, stop right now unless you want your contracts terminated this instant!

The crowd boos, and for a moment it looks as if Latino doesn’t give a shit about anything except reaching his wife; RDK has to restrain him for a few seconds until he calms down enough to think clearly. Ginger smiles, and the rest of the CA laugh; BK nods to Santiago and Jake, who remove AK from the ropes and pull her forward, dropping her at BK’s feet. BK gives her a kick, and smirks nastily.

BK: Predator, if you don’t mind… the title belt.

Predator slides out of the ring, retrieves the World Title belt, and returns, handing it to BK. This in itself makes the crowd boo with renewed fury, and BK holds it so that AK can see it from where she is kneeling on the mat.

BK: Get up, Alicia. Don’t you want this back?

AK keeps her eyes on the mat, but slowly gets on her feet. It’s as if she doesn’t want to acknowledge BK with eye contact, but eventually she has no choice, and the second she does raise her head, BK swings the title belt and nails her with it. AK is sent backward, and she tumbles over the top rope to collapse on the outside; Latino and RDK rush forward to her, and BK holds up the belt above his head in one hand, with his mic in the other.

BK: Take a good look, people… because I’m giving you a once in a lifetime chance, a glimpse into the future. And that future is BK London, World Champion and lynchpin of the Corporate Alliance!

”Hold Ya Head” hits, and BK throws his mic aside, holding the belt aloft with both hands. The rest of the CA applaud, though this is obliterated by the storm of protest coming from the fans, and this is the shot which ends the show.

The Corporate Alliance is back, and stronger than ever. But however successful they appear at present, one important detail could still wreck their plans… the name on the belt that BK flaunts. On the outside of the ring, Alicia allows RDK and Latino to help her up… and the fire in her eyes hints at her determination to hold on to that which is rightfully hers.

The sun is setting in the Caribbean, but the temperature in ACW is rising…

Fade to Black.

[hunter]

Segment: Brudah! (Credit: Santiago)

We open up backstage to see Gary with a look of joy upon his face.

Gary: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m standing hereby with the Macho Man himself, R-D-K!

"RDK" walks into our point of view and you can clearly see it’s Santiago dressed as RDK however Gary the blow pop is unaware of the situation.

Gary: Macho Man! At Fallen Heroes you will compete with Santiago Rivera for th-

"RDK": BRUDAH! Oh..oh sorry, continue.

Gary: As I was saying, you’ll face Santiago Rivera for the Inter-

"RDK": OoOoOoOoOoOH YEAH!

Gary: International T-

"RDK:" Brudah.

Gary: Titl-

"RDK": MACHO SLAM!

Gary: For the International title. What are your thoughts on that?

"RDK": You see brudah, it’s very simple. The brudah known as Santiago Rivera is going to kick my brudah ass brudah! He will take me to China town, where he will buy me a can of OoOoOoOH YEAH MACHO whup ass and he will open that can all over me brudah! Now let me ask you a question Gary! How do YOU think that I will do brudah?

Gary: Well…I think you’re going to win!

"RDK" So you’re saying that like I’ve done to many others I’ll put the slam bam wham on him like rice pudding on Sunday?

Gary:………….What?

"RDK": I will rock him to next Tuesday where I’ll make sweet love to mah mutha?

Gary::…..huh?

"RDK": I will slimmity blast him into two Fundays ago where he will be crying for mercy in the bubble gum river?

Gary: Are you even saying words anymore?

"RDK": Of course I am, Gary you’re a machomaniac you should understaaaaand me brudah!

Gary: I’m sorry but you’re starting to act very stupid.

"RDK": Brudah just listen brudah. Listen to all my machomaniacs out there. They’re all chanting my name brudah. And damn brudah if that ever stopped I don’t know what I do brudah, ya know what I mean brudah? Now if you all wanna see the MACHO MAAAAAN lose horribly to Santiago Rivera give me an OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOH YEAAAAH!!!

The crowd boos and you can hear it backstage.

Gary: Why are these people booing you?

"RDK": Because I’m the best and they’re all just jealous! Santiago Rivera will beat me but for now brudah I’m just gonna walk around saying how he’ll lose! He’s gonna fall to me and I’ll become the new International Champion brudah. I will whip him REAL good OoOoOooOoOoOoooOooOOOOOoOooooooOoOoOOoOOOOOOooooooooOOoOOOOooOoOOooH YEAAAAAHAAASH!


The fake RDK starts panting and his eyes bulge out as he pushes Gary and starts running like a girl down the hallway. The camera turns to find a Santiago Rivera midget with the International Title running down the hall way.

"RDK": OH BRUDAH BRUDAH BRUDAH BRUDAH BRUDAH BRUDAH BRUDAH BRUDAH BRUDAH BRUDAH BRUDAH! DON’T HURT ME BRUDAH OoOoOoOoOoOh NOOOO!

The midget tackles "RDK" and puts him into Santi’s Secret and he starts tapping with both hands.

"RDK": OOH HAVE MERCY! SHOW SOME COMPASSION BRUDAH!!!!

Midget Santi: You’re my bitch now!

"RDK": Whatever you say brudah! Please just don’t verbally rape me infront of AAAAALL two of my Macho Maniacs OoOoOoOH NO!

Midget Santi: Yeah well bitch come Fallen Heroes you’ll be looking at me. Me pinning you 1-2-3 and retaining my International Title!

"RDK": Fine, just leave me be brudah! Oooh Brudah let me beeeee!

Midget Santi walks off with the title as Gary hurries over to "RDK".

Gary: Are you okay?!

"RDK": No…he put the wham right into that bam which brought me down like the man named Sam who liked green eggs and ham!

He holds his back.

"RDK": NACHO IS STILL GREATER THAN MACHO OoOoOOoOOOOoOOOoOooooOooooOH YEAAH!

Scene fades as he passes out on the ground and Gary looks concerned.

[hunter]

Family Reunion?(Credit: Latino)

* Days Earlier *

The scene opens up to the outside area of a very cloudy day. In the background, men in blue uniform are noticeable standing and patrolling a fenced in building, more specifically a correctional facility. A familiar Hispanic accent is clearly heard amongst the cars passing by and a few guards yelling out loud. Latino walks into view with one of ACW’s Staff members, Jim, just behind. Jim sticks out like a sore thumb wearing his ACW jacket and dressed pants. Meanwhile Latino seems to be exact opposite as he is not cleanly shaven and is wearing faded jeans with a regular t-shirt. His hair is barely kempt and his eyes seem to have countless bags due to his lack of sleep. Luckily, his trademark sunglasses hide his eyes as he wipes his forehead and turns back to Jim.

Latino: Mira….you can stay out here or in the car…or where ever just don’t follow me inside. I want to handle this alone.

Jim: I was under strict orders from the Chairman to follow you in Mr. Laureano.

Latino: I don’t care and if you do follow me I won’t think twice about forcing you back. Comprende?

Jim: uhhh-

Latino: Do you understand?

Jim: Yes, Mr. Laureano. We won’t disturb you.

Latino gives a similar look to the cameraman and then turns around as he walks down the driveway. It’s crystal clear that his intentions inside this correctional facility are extremely personal. He stops at the doorway as the two guards check him over for any concealed weapons.

Guard 1: Spread your legs “chico.”

Guard 2: Yea we have to check you over for any dangerous materials.

Latino: Whatever happened to dinner and movie first? Pendejo.

…..

Can I go now? I got important things to attend to inside.

Guard 2: Yea he’s clear. Open the doors!

The gates now open slowly as Latino takes a step back out of initial caution. He looks up and down as it continues to slowly swing open. Once he measures enough room for himself Latino walks through and sees himself already in a dimly lit hallway. He walks down towards a desk and of course a bright light. The footsteps echo as he walks down the narrow passage until Latino finally stops in front of a short haired woman with black glasses.

Receptionist (With a little of an attitude): Can I help you?

Latino: Uhhh yea. I’m here to see Rafael Laureano.

Receptionist: Sign here and then go through those doors on the left.

Latino gives her a slight look at the sense of her attitude but decides not to pressure it as he grabs the offered pen. He quickly writes down his name and then hands it back as he walks to the left. His step echo once more until he stops to open the door and once again he is welcomed by two other guards. They give him a look over and then motion him towards a table. Latino looks around and notices a lot of empty tables as the guards leave the room. Silence now enters the room as Latino starts to feel a bit uncomfortable. He reaches in his pocket and pulls out the same photo that has been show over and over again. He stops to admire it until a voice breaks the silence.

??: What the hell are you doing here?

Latino (turning his head): I came to see you, Rafael.

Rafael: Oh now you did? It took you three years to come for one visit huh?

Latino: Come on you know I have been busy.

Rafael: Abuela comes. My mom. My sister. My deadbeat father. YOUR parents. But my own cousin…the one I treated like my own brother can’t even stop on by?

Latino: Look I didn’t come here to hear complaints.

Rafael: Oh I’m sorry. Was I suppose to jump up and down happy that my “great” cousin is finally here to visit me?

Latino: Por favor-

Rafael: Hey guards look at this! Victor, my cousin, finally stopped by to see me!

Latino: Maricon, are you done yet? You happy you got me all guilty now.

Rafael starts laughing as he can’t hold back the façade anymore. Latino breaks out in a smile that hasn’t been seen in ages. Both cousins embrace in a emotional hug while the guards watch on like hawks. They pull back after a few seconds as they can sense the guards ready to pull them apart. Each Laureano takes a seat on opposite ends of the table and Rafael is still chuckling to himself.

Rafael: I had you going, didn’t I?

Latino: Yea you did. What was that for? You know how busy I’ve been the past few years.

Rafael: Yea, yea I know. Just can’t help but playing a trick on ‘ya. Not everyday I get to do it you know?

Latino: Yea, whatever.

Rafael: Seriously, what you doing here?

Latino: I came to see you. What other reason would I have?

Rafael: Oh yea sure. I know you there some other reason why you’re here and it’s not ‘cuz you suddenly have some free time. I heard you got some big show comin’ up.

Latino: Yea, I do it’s in over a week.

Rafael: So you ready for it? You gonna make the Laureano name proud?

Latino: ….I doubt it.

Rafael: What the fuck? Why not? You’re a Laureano. You got no reason to fail.

Latino: Yea not if you’re damn father got anything to do about it. He’s on my back since day one about failing.

Rafael: Fuck him. He was barely there enough for me and I know he wasn’t there for you so why the hell should be talking shit now. He was never a dad for me or my sisters much less an uncle to you.

Latino: Yea, yea that’s true but still not good when you got these damn negative thoughts going though you’re head…you know?

Rafael: Hello? Did you forget where I am? I’m in the castle of negative thoughts. Mira chiquito, don’t listen to him alright? You got the skill and you damn well got the looks to take out anyone alright. Wait…what show is it?

Latino: It’s called Fallen Heroes, it’s like those old Royal Rumbles we used to watch when we were kids.

Rafael: Sí? Damn you got it tough chico. Heh remember that time when Jake “The Snake” ran in the ring and through his snake. Then Andre the Giant eliminated himself?

Latino (laughing); Yea, I do. We stayed up late to watch it on tape and got our asses beat by Abuela.

Rafael: Those were good times. Listen you go to that show and you win it ok? You don’t do it for your wife or my uncle or me. You do it for yourself because in the end that’s all that matters….especially in my position. Tambien?

Latino: Sí, sí. Es verdad. You’re always right anyways. That’s why you’re my older cousin.

Latino and his cousin both get up and exchange a strong handshake. Latino attempts to let go but Rafael pulls him forward and the two embrace in another hug. They know that this could be the last time they see one another for a long time and definitely want to make this visit last. A tear falls down both of their faces as they say a few words in Spanish that is barely heard. Latino lets out a laugh again and the two break the hug.

Rafael: You take care of yourself alright?

Latino: As long as you promise me the samething.

Rafael: Ah don’t worry about me I’ll be fine. After three years in here the other twenty-two are nothing.

Latino turns to leave but Rafael’s voice stops him dead in his tracks.

Rafael: ….You know I don’t blame you.

Latino: For what?

Rafael: You know for what.

Raising his arms.

….For this.

Latino: Oh…well at least that makes one of us.

Rafael: Hey! You did what you had to do. I was a stupid kid then and wasn’t thinking clear.

Latino: Yea well you are my family and I…..I mean look at where you are because of me!

Rafael: It wasn’t because of you Victor. It was me. I made the wrong choices and that’s why I’m here. We all have our own choices to make and this is where mine lead me. So stop holding something that doesn’t belong inside you.

Latino: ….You’re alright….you’re always right. Gracias para todo.

Latino walks away towards the door. He gives his cousin one final look back and then opens the door. As he closes the door shut he hears two last words.

Rafael: ….De nada.

Fade to black

[hunter]

Match: Fallen Heroes Over The Top Match
Santiago vs. Rattlesnake vs. Senator (Opening events credit: Senator / Match Credit: AK)

What is possibly the most fascinating and difficult to call contest of the night is up next; Philip wastes no time in getting down to work.

Philip: This is an “over the top” elimination match… the man who is left in the ring after his opponents have been ejected from it will be declared the winner. Introducing first, from Orlando, Florida… the “Vision of Greatness”, Rattlesnake!

”Blind” hits, and the surge of noise that greets Snake is in his mind no more than is fitting to a man of his talents. Clearly a lover of big crowds, he strides down confidently to the ring, enters it and walks around in a proprietorial manner.

Philip: Secondly, from Syracuse, New York… he is a member of the Corporate Alliance, Santiago Rivera!

”Click Click Boom” bursts into life, and the crowd gives Santiago a rousing round of boos as he approaches the ring. Santiago laughs it off, enters, and gives Snake a glance that shows he’s not at all intimidated by him; Snake merely smirks and maintains an aloof distance.

Suddenly, the familiar tickertape shoots out from the entranceway, and Hail to the Chief plays, heralding the Senator’s entry.

Phillip: Announcing last, hailing out of Washington D.C, Senator Steve Phillips!

The Senator makes his way to the ring, wearing his red, white, and blue attire. He walks around the ring, and snatches Phillip’s microphone on the way up.

The Senator: Well, well, well, it sure has been some time since I have done one of these little talks! Fallen Heroes draws nigh. My training as of late perhaps has not been quite as rigorous as it was last year, but in turn, I have now been through a Fallen Heroes battle royal match. Last year, I went through a number of these training matches for the big one, and this year shall be no different in that regard. Last Monday, I once again made my return to active competition, facing three other men and decisively defeating them in a over the top challenge. I see two worthy opponents standing here, Rattlesnake, a man with a large amount of talent, and an even larger ego. Sir, you will go somewhere here in ACW, but you first have to get through me. Santiago Rivera…what else must I say about the Iron Man of ACW? Or, if you will, the Benedict Arnold of the Senatorial Stable! Santiago, I have no use for dead weight and cowards in the Stable! I dropped the Capitalists from the unit because they were hindering our overall goal, and you, Santiago, while you left on your own accord, you did me a favor. The Stable is the longest reigning unit in ACW history, it is the strongest unit in ACW history, having held nearly every single title at one point, and it will remain in the future the only unit with the intelligence and the guts to survive. We will not corrode from the inside, and we will not allow outside threats to overcome us! Santiago, you did me a favor in leaving! I do not deny your talent, nor do I harbor ill will towards you, but you were having too many problems within the Stable, and the answers you gave for leaving make me question your heart. So then, if you wish to achieve victory in this match, you have a little problem, much like Rattlesnake, you must go through me, but unlike him, I have a specific reason to deny you your win here.

The Senator stretches for a moment, before speaking again.

Senator: Oh yes, I have one specific reason to keep you from winning. A win for you will appear to be a validation of your choice, and while I do not mind you succeeding in your career, it will not be at the expense of the Senatorial Stable, and that, my former associate, is nothing…but the truth.

The crowd pops, and the referee reminds the competitors of the rules, and then gives the all clear for the match to start.

Bell Rings.

The throngs gathered in the park are eager to see how this match plays out; all three men have in their own ways fearsome reputations, and there are no obvious alliances here. Santiago, however, has something of an agenda and goes straight for Senator, wanting to show that he’s more than a match for his former stablemate. He attacks with a string of powerful chops which the Senator pays back immediately with interest; he knocks Santiago on to one knee, but is then blindsided with a clothesline from Rattlesnake, whose only concern in this match is winning it. The fans boo as Snake drags Phillips to the ropes and attempts to muscle him over the top, but the Senator is not exactly thrilled at such a prospect and battles back so that he and Snake end up swapping blows at the ropes. Santiago comes forward and kicks Senator in the ribs, making him stagger, but Senator quickly grabs Santiago’s arm and whips him into Rattlesnake, who “welcomes” him with one of his famed jabbing combos. The lariat which tops this off sends Santiago pitching backward; Snake smirks, but Santiago holds on, and instead gets his feet on the apron. Re-entering the ring, however, is easier said than done as Snake keeps up his rapid fire punches, and the Senator is not too noble to press the advantage and assist in a double teaming effort. Much to his credit, Santiago withstands this attack, distracts Snake with a kick to the knee and then delivers a jarring neckbreaker variant against the top rope on to Senator. He rolls back beneath the ropes and puts some distance between himself and his two opponents, and as they get back on to their feet he charges forward, ambitiously aiming to eliminate both men simultaneously. Unfortunately for him, Snake and Senator both have the same idea of how to counter this; they momentarily combine forces to lift Santiago into a back bodydrop that sends him well clear of the ropes, and the fans cheer loudly as he lands on the outside mats.

Philip: Santiago Rivera has been eliminated!

[hunter]

Santiago pounds the mat in frustration as he gets back on his feet; in the ring, though, there’s no time for reflection as Senator and Snake are already moving back toward the centre of the ring, trading blows. There seems to be a kind of concealed respect between the pair, not surprising when their respective records are considered; Snake has a slight power advantage in a head to head fight, but the Senator’s blows are precisely timed and placed so that he wastes very little energy. The fans haven’t sat down after Santiago’s elimination; they remain on their feet, riveted as Snake makes a small error that allows the Senator to get behind him and produce his crowd-thrilling Senatorial Series. As confident as he is, Snake can’t conceal the fact that he’s being worn down, but he rallies and comes back with his own Poisonous Venom (rolling german suplex series). Instead of pinning, Snake uses this as a way of bringing the fight back to the edge of the ring, and as he and the Senator rise he uses a shoulder tackle to force Senator back into one of the ring corners. The fans boo as Snake breaks out another burst of jabs, doing his best to soften his foe up; Senator’s slight flinches show that he’s feeling this, but he returns fire with a few more fast chops that the fans love.

The Senator has built up plenty of experience in this type of match during his career, and seems to have everything under control as he whips Snake to the ropes and then hits him with a couple of swift middle kicks on his return. Snake staggers back, and the Senator’s smoothness of movement and lack of hesitation demonstrate his confidence as he closes in on his opponent. Snake is as cunning and slippery as his namesake, however, and he twists around with a sharp elbow to the throat that halts the Senator in his tracks. Quickly, Snake attempts to lift and throw Senator over the top; Senator just manages to get an ankle hooked around Snake’s knee, and Snake ends up toppling the pair of them, sending them crashing to the mat. The sound of the massive outdoor crowd is quite unique, and spurs both men on to even greater efforts; Senator puts on a burst of energy and strikes with a rib kick at a speed that is impressive even for him. The fans go mental as Senator “busts out” the Filibuster; Snake looks to be badly dazed as Senator rolls back on to his feet and then gets his foe on his shoulders. The fans cheer as Senator takes a step back, preparing to hurl his foe out at a high angle… but this snake is only “playing dead”, and he suddenly revives and slips off of Senator’s shoulders, landing behind him. Senator turns around at once, but Snake has already ducked and he rises up to lift Senator up on to his shoulders. In a manner reminiscent of Brock Lesnar and Matt Hardy, Snake uses a F5 style throw to send the Senator out over the top, and the rotation makes it impossible for Senator to grasp the ropes on the way down. There is a cry of dismay from the fans as Senator takes a rather rough landing, and the bell rings.

Philip: Here is your winner… Rattlesnake!

The fans are surprised at the outcome of the match; Snake, of course, struts around as if the whole thing were never in doubt. On the outside, Senator picks himself up; he’s disappointed with the result, but also realizes that he’s learnt a valuable lesson here. He won’t fall for that particular trick next time, and such a slim advantage can sometimes be the only difference between success and failure on the grand stage…

The fans still cheer with affection and respect as Senator heads to the back, and Snake continues to celebrate his win as the show cuts to a break.

[hunter]

Segment: The Massacre (Credit: Hunter)

Bang.

He has seen it happen before, death crawling through the hole of a gun and using its maniacal evil to propel the bullet forward. But today it is different. This is not death; this is pure carnage. The hookers and pimps appear from all sides of the hallway and Truman and Cross fire into them rapidly, bits of flesh and gallons of blood spilling onto the floor. Grimm walks into the room that Sarah is in, and he takes his gun and whips it against the face of one of the hookers inside. He then flips it into the air as if it were some sort of toy and grabs it, then pulls the trigger and blows open a hole in one of the hookers’ head. The other three scream, whereas Sarah sits absolutely still on the bed and does not react whatsoever.

Hunter: Grimm, what the fuck are you doing?

Grimm: …having my fun.

He kicks one of the hookers in the face and then fires two bullets into another’s chest. He grabs the first one and slams her head into a bookshelf, and then puts the gun to the back of her head and pulls the trigger. He walks over to the final one and she trembles as he stands over her and laughs.

Grimm: What’s your name?

Mary: …M…Mary.

Grimm: So one of you actually has a Christian name?

Mary: Please…don’t…

Grimm: Well it was nice knowing you, Mary.

Mary: NO---

Her jaw shatters instantly and her body falls to the floor in a motionless lump. Grimm blows the smoke from his gun and holsters it, and then turns back to Hunter.

Hunter: …they weren’t armed.

Grimm: They are still a threat.

Hunter: HOW?

Grimm: …well we will not know now, will we? Grab your woman, and lets get out of here.

Hunter walks up to Sarah and grabs her shoulders and shakes her a little.

Hunter: Sarah! It’s me! Andrew!

Sarah says nothing and does not move at all.

Hunter: Please, say something! Can you hear me?

She slowly moves her head and looks him straight in the eyes. Hunter does not recognize these eyes anymore, however. She continues saying nothing, and Hunter knows fully well that he does not have enough time to question her now. He grabs her by the hand and leads her to the door to the hall. Grimm walks out first and Hunter can hear a conversation that takes place between him and Cross.

Grimm: How many, do you think?

Cross: It seems as if their numbers keep increasing.

Grimm: …perfect.

Truman snickers nearby, and Hunter sees him run down the hall as two arms appear from either side of the hall and start firing at him. He continues running, and the two arms keep following him. He reaches their side and ducks down as the two hookers fire their guns…and shoot each other dead. Truman kips up and looks around.

Truman: It is clear.

Grimm: For now, anyway.

Cross: Find Mr. Waters.

Truman: We will not have to. Just follow the gunshots.

Cross: Mr. Hunter, come along quickly! And raise your gun, man!

Hunter looks at Cross and his eyes once again fall upon the buttons on his jacket. For whatever reason, they are not the same as they were before; now the crossbows have fire the arrows. Regardless, Hunter takes his gun in his right hand and takes Sarah in his left, and quickly moves forward and follows the others. The first three run and begin firing into different rooms and continue moving along the floor. Hunter suddenly hears a loud creak from behind him and sees a pimp appear from the room. He has a look of pure hatred on his face, and he raises his handgun angrily and points it at Hunter. Hunter’s eyes widen, and out of pure instinct he raises the gun and fires. The pimp drops dead in a matter of seconds as Hunter looks on completely shocked and what he did.

Grimm: I told you…

Hunter: …what?

Grimm: It gets easier with practice. You are a killer now…and not by accident.

Hunter turns around and sees Grimm smiling evilly. He then turns around and runs down the hall, and Hunter has no choice but to follow him, despite the fact that he turns around and looks at the body of the pimp one more time. He looks at Grimm’s back…and then suddenly he gets a strange sense of déjà vu. Grimm has put his black hood on, and this mysterious black figure looks very familiar to Hunter.

Hunter: …it’s him.

He shakes his head slowly and tries to forget about it, but it is difficult. So instead, he joins the three men at the foot of the staircase and sees a group of five hookers firing at them. Truman charges down the stairs and is able to kill two of them in a matter of seconds, and then Grimm leaps onto the railing and slides down the staircase and fires at two more. The final one widens her eyes…and a bullet goes between them, courtesy of Cross.

Waters: Well this has been a weird little day, am I right?

The others turn and see Waters appear from around the corner with a gun in his hand and blood smeared on his shirt.

Truman: How was she, Mr. Waters?

Waters: She did not know anything. I had to teach her.

Grimm: And how did you do that?

Waters: …I snapped her neck.

Hunter cringes at the thought as he walks down the stairs with Sarah in tow. Cross approaches his comrades and grasps them warmly.

Cross: Gentlemen, I do believe it is time for us to go.

Truman: I agree. I doubt there are any left.

Grimm: Well we have to be sure, would you not agree?

Waters: No, Mr. Truman is right. The police will likely be here any minute. We must leave.

Hunter: Yeah…I can’t take this anymore.

Grimm: Too much for one day, correct?

Hunter: …yeah.

Grimm: You will get used to it one day…killer.

Hunter cringes once more and follows the four of them as they approach the door. Cross puts his hand on the doorknob…and then he hears a group of cries. He and the others turn around to face Hunter, but Hunter soon realizes they are not looking at him. They walk past him and walk up to a door that is under the staircase. They open it and look inside, and Hunter hears a loud and large assortment of female cries. And moments later, the men raise their guns and fire freely. The cries are gone.

Cross: Enough fun for one day. Now we go.

The others nod and they walk past Hunter once more as Hunter looks at them awe-stricken. They open the door and walk out into the bloodless streets, and Hunter joins them. They all go into their original seats in the van, and Hunter quickly gets Sarah inside and follows her into the car. He closes the door and looks back at the building, which looks even more crimson than it did mere minutes ago. Yes, Hunter has found what he wanted to find. But he has found her at the expense of many deaths, despite the fact that they are far from innocent. Regardless, he tries to comfort himself. He has found his true joy and his true happiness…

…but how long will it last?

End