Thursday Night Meltdown 1st March 2007

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Back in NYC (Credit: Hunter)

Your new life awaits...

I read that in a magazine once. It was an advertisement for...well, I am not that sure. I think it was for some sort of cruise down to the Bahamas for a few weeks. I am not really sure why they would call this a "new life," unless they planned to seal off the boat and not let anyone escape, then feed them crayfish for the rest of their days. It was probably referring to the fact that if you go down to the Bahamas, you'll likely want to stay there; thus, "new life." Now, for me, I would LOVE to go to the Bahamas. The only reason that I do not want to live there is because...well, it is incredibly hot. And I melt faster than a snow man in Morocco. And so I only had a select few locations left to choose from when I decided to start my new life, one without James, or death, or any of that. But there was one that stuck out beyond them all.

I had been to New York City only once before. It was a mini-mission of sorts; James just had some business dealings with some fat Italian godfather-esque dude, and he wanted me to tag along and get to know the city, in the event that he wanted me to do a job there. And now, standing roughly fifteen stories off the ground, as I look out at the New York skyline, I recall exactly why I love this place: it is simply beautiful. No one pays any attention to those around them, and it is arguably the most ego-filled city in the world. And that makes it the perfect hiding place.

?: And so the bathroom is over there...

I zone out slightly; I am simply amazed by the fact that people have yet to realize that a man can generally find a bathroom without a tour guide. I turn to face the bellhop before me, and he tenses up when he notices me looking at him. It must be my new beard (naturally, part of the disguise).

I can figure it out.

He nods slightly, and chuckles nervously. I lick my index finger and my thumb for some added flair, and then pull a fifty dollar bill from my wallet. I look at it briefly, and then slip it into his coat pocket with the same two fingers.

Bellhop: Oh my, thank you, sir.

Anytime. Well...no, not really. Anytime you make yourself useful.

The bellhop chuckles nervously; this is probably because he knows that if I get offended, I could take the money back...and he does not want that. But then again, he does not know me in the least, so it is quite a terrible assumption. He assumes I am exactly like those other greedy wastes of flesh that live in this building. But I think that I can give him the benefit of the doubt on this one. He slowly backs away, and then opens the door and turns to me once more.

Bellhop: I hope you enjoy your stay, Mr. Lewis.

I smile falsely, and he closes the doors behind him. It will likely take a while to get used to that alias. "Matthew Lewis" was something James came up with a while back. He made fake IDs for all of us, and then put them into our own separate bank accounts along with 15% of our salaries, and the money accumulated over time (the more work we did, the more we made, the more got into the account). I was quite surprised to see that the account had not been completely deleted, as I would have assumed that James would have emptied it instantly. But oh well, I refuse to complain about a situation that makes it better for me; I am currently residing in a luxurious hotel room in downtown New York, with a perfectly "legit" identity, social security card, driver's license, and even a library card...well, James obviously did not include that with the package, but I still got one regardless.

Fantastic...

Talking to oneself is considered a sign of insanity; I would worry, if it were not for the fact that I have around twenty seven hits on my record. I drop my bag on the large king sized bed and open it up, throwing out the various pairs of pants, socks, and shirts that I could buy on the outskirts of NYC. I plan on filling up the closet behind me sooner than later, but for now I think I should just settle on getting reacquainted with the city. Under my clothes is the bag of my accumulated money (which, after the hotel room, comes down to roughly fifty thousand dollars...and naturally, there is much more I can get in the future), which I plan on depositing soon. I may love this city, but I do not trust its people to not grab my bag of possessions (one of which is, again, said money). And under all of this is the one thing that may have saved me in the first place: the Bible.

Melodramatic, aren't we?

Yet again, signs of insanity. But...come to think of it, I AM narrating my life. That is likely an obvious sign of insanity in the first place. Regardless, I pick up the Bible and I begin to flip through it, passing the various markers I have put in it, so as to remember my personal favorite passages. The main reasons I keep the thing around? One, it will help me on my new mission. Two...well, it does make me feel better in the long run. I open up the door to the balcony, and step outside, and then look down at the bustling New York street, until eventually turning my attention back to the Bible in my hands.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want...

Always was one of my favorite passages. I close the book and let my mind trail off...I need to think of a way to go through with this mission. Clearly I shall need some more people, and I shall also need people who are on the same wavelength as myself. I know where I can go to find them, but I do not know who exactly can agree with me. After all, the words "help me kill all of the sinners of the world" probably do not register that well amongst criminals. But I can find a way...maybe just one step at a time?

Knock, Knock…

Fade.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Anteros’ Arrow (Credit: AK/Nick)

The next scene opens up to show Nick Durden’s dressing room. He is preparing for his match, when there is a knock at the door.

Still with his thoughts divided between his joy at reconciliation with Renix, and focusing on the match he’s about to contest, he is a little surprised to see Alicia there. She’s not yet ready for her own match, and she looks a bit tired around the eyes, doubtless from the party a couple of days ago. But she smiles regardless, and Nick smiles back.

Alicia: I know you’re busy, I won’t keep you long. I just wanted to see for myself how you’re doing after Saturday.

Nick rubs the back of his neck; the two wrestlers can’t fool one another, and each can see that the effects of Bloody Valentine will take a while yet to ease fully.

Nick: I’m still here, and so is Renix. I’m more than happy with that state of affairs.

Alicia nods. She reaches into her trouser pocket, and takes something out.

Alicia: Well, this is hardly a “goodbye”, but it is a parting of sorts. So I just wanted to give you this.

She holds out a closed fist, and Nick extends an open palm. Alicia drops a small object which is surprisingly heavy, and as Nick looks at it, he can see that it’s a simple arrowhead, strung on a plain black chord.

Nick: Uhh, thanks, I guess. What is it?

Alicia smiles, more at herself than at Nick.

Alicia: Have you ever seen the statue on top of the fountain in Piccadilly Circus, in London?

Nick considers this, leaning to his left against the door frame.

Nick: ….I think so, only in pictures, though. It’s cupid, or something.

Alicia nods, but then shakes her head a little.

Alicia: That’s what a lot of people call it; Cupid, or Eros. The spirit of love, witness to thousands upon thousands of proposals and declarations in his name. But shall I tell you a little-known secret? It’s not Eros at all. It’s his brother, Anteros.

Nick raises his eyebrows, but understandably is no wiser as to why Alicia is giving him this nugget of knowledge.

Alicia: It may seem like an inconsequential thing, but actually it’s very, very important… where Eros represents the flush of youthful, fanciful ardour, Anteros represents something far rarer, the power of mature and reciprocal love. Anteros’ arrows were made of something stronger than those of his sibling, too… they were said to be made of lead.

Looking at the heavy shard in his hand, Nick has no doubt now that this is what he is holding; a lead arrow.

Nick: Lead, huh?

Alicia: Yes. No one knows precisely why, but myself, I tend to think of lead as a solid, heavy material. Heavy metal, even.

Nick chuckles, seeing the connection.

Alicia: You’ve done incredibly well to reach this point, Nick, but if I was to give you one final bit of advice, it would be to realize that this is just the first step toward achieving what you seek. The love between yourself and Renix is hot and fiery now, and you may feel as if those flames will never go out… but they will most certainly die back, and you will have bad days, you will make stupid decisions, and you will argue. That is when real love begins, when you consciously choose to extend yourselves for one another’s benefit, and put work into loving one another even when it doesn’t feel the way you expect. Real love is hard work, real love is dangerous, and it requires courage from everyone involved… it’s solid, and demanding, and lies heavily upon you when things aren’t going well. But like this arrow, it can also soar…

Alicia looks at Nick, and she can see that he’s listening and trying hard to absorb her words, and somehow this means a lot to her. She pushes her hair back, and smiles.

Alicia: Anyway, that’s enough of my spiel, you’ve got a match to get to. Good luck, Nick, I’ll see you around.

She turns and walks away from him. Nick goes to shut the door, and then pauses; he looks in Alicia’s direction, and calls out.

Nick: Alicia?

She stops and looks back over her shoulder.

Nick:………………thanks.

Alicia inclines her head, very slightly, with a smile at the edge of her lips. Just occasionally, one little word really does say it all.

Alicia: Right back at you.

She continues to walk, and Nick re-enters his locker room as the scene fades out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: “Allow me to reintroduce myself; my name is RUDO. R-U-D-Oh yes I’m back. I say what I mean and I mean what I say. I am the eye catcher, the mind thrasher, the spontaneous thinker and the roundhouse kicker. I am the metaphor for sheer and utter domination. When people hear my name they stop and they listen. When people see my frame, they stop and they watch. The rules rewrite themselves for my advancement and I, in turn rewrite professional wrestling. I am known as Mr. K.O. but you may call me Savior. I am the R3 prodigy and the Yin Yang Dragon. I am the past and the future, whose legacy is now. I practice complex simplicity amidst over embellishment. I am the dictator of pace and the baton wielder for the junior heavyweight race. I do not seek gold; I am the one who sets the standard. I am the prime contributor to the quest for junior respect and the authoritative voice in a meditative state. The Armada lives by three R’s…but I will die by them – What more can I say? (Credit: Kudo)


“Poison” rocks the arena speakers and Kudo gets a mixed, but loud reaction as he makes his way out down the ramp and into the ring. He is fully adorned in his wrestling gear with the ARMADA flag wrapped around him like a cape, a silver necklace and a pair of dark sunglasses. He steps up onto the middle turnbuckle and poses for some camera shots. Even if the fans do not particularly appreciate his views, a great Kudo Yasuda shot is something truly hard to pass up. Kudo steps down and does the same for the opposite turnbuckle before grabbing a mic from Philip Jones, who proceeds out of the ring. Kudo looks around at the crowd, slowly bringing his head from one corner of the arena to the other, taking in the boos and the cheers as the fans continue to shoot their cameras off. When Kudo finally brings the mic to his mouth, the fans quiet down. Even if you don’t like the man, his speech and demeanor often grasps your attention. Kudo will make that no exception tonight.

Kudo: You know with all of the “new faces of ACW,” constantly sprouting up, you’d think this promotion just went under a myriad of plastic surgeries, trying to fix up some little imperfection. But let me tell you something - there is nothing wrong, there is nothing to fix – And this is the only face that you need to know.

Kudo looks straight into the camera and temporarily takes off his sunglasses to show his bare face as the mixed fans now are predominantly switching to boos.

Kudo: But perhaps I spoke too hastily. I am wrong in saying that ACW has nothing to fix because obviously its light heavyweight division requires a full repackaging. So let me try this again.

Kudo quickly clears his throat and takes to the mic once again.

Kudo: All I hear about are the new “saviors” of ACW, but ACW does not need saving. What ACW needs, it already has. And that is the person who will take junior heavyweight wrestling to the next level. No, no, what ACW has is someone who will elevate the division nine thousand levels higher, surpassing the grip of heavyweight control over the business today. Now that person is me.

Kudo proudly takes the boos once more as he pushes his sunglasses back in position, resting on the crevice of his nose and forehead.

Kudo: So fear no more because your light heavyweight champion and leader is here, and here to stay!

The boos continue as Kudo pulls the ARMADA flag outward and reveals the ACW Light Heavyweight championship belt wrapped around his waist. The camera zooms up on it and shows his name clearly bolted in with the gold lining.

Kudo: I feel like a renewed warrior ready to wield his weapon of choice again, and my weapons of choice are my mind, my words, and my knees.

Kudo smirks but quickly takes to the mic again before the boos get too loud.

Kudo: Let us take a look at my history with this belt shall we? Looking back at my first defense of this title belt against Jake Cheng being thrown out due to interference and then my match with BK London end in controversial fashion, the media was just about ready to give up on me. Hell, I was about ready to give up on myself. But this past Saturday at Bloody Valentine, I had my chance and oh was it beautiful. Kudo vs. London vs. Jake. I got a chance to take both of them on and redeem my pathetic outings during my first two defenses. And when I get a chance, I take advantage of it, and that is why I stand before you today with this belt wrapped around my waist and my name solidified with the greatest to ever hold the title.

No rate of talking could save Kudo from the overwhelming boos coming from the crowd now, and he stands there waiting for them to tire themselves out.

Kudo: I don’t know what everyone is so angry about. All of you have dreamt of a hero, dreamt of someone to come and save you from this stale systematic heavyweight drivel and deliver everything you could ever want in wrestling. You’ve imagined in your minds the next greatest wrestler on the planet, but you don’t have to imagine anymore! I am the living dream and my dream encompasses every one of yours. You can compare me to the past and project my status for the future, but my legacy is now. Mark my words.

“Poison” hits the arena speakers once more and Kudo tosses out the microphone to Philip Jones by the announcers’ table before slowly making his way out of the ring like royalty and clutching the ARMADA flag tightly against his skin. The fans let him know what they really feel as he makes his way up the ramp, but nothing can seemingly penetrate his ears and drive Kudo out of the self righteous promotion he chooses to believe in himself.

-Fade Out-

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Suspicious Behaviour? (Credit: Scott Andrews)

Since Bloody Valentine, Scott and Jessie haven’t been the same. Scott seems even more enthusiastic towards becoming a driving force in ACW, whilst Jessie seems a lot more subdued and somewhat in her own world. It was a tough battle for the Scarlet Assassin and maybe an even traumatic experience for Jessie.

They sit opposite each other; Scott watching an old tape of Ric Flair, and Jessie quietly reading a copy of a recent Entertainment Weekly magazine. Scott gazes into the big screen television as Jessie flicks casually through the pages.

Scott: I just think I need more time to rest it off. My ribs are killing me…

They seem to be mid conversation.

Scott: …Jessie…?

Jessie snaps out of her semi-trance and looks at Scott.

Scott: You, ok? You seem spaced out.

Jessie looks back down at her magazine.

Jessie: No, I’m fine, hun, don’t worry.

Scott doesn’t buy it, but he lets her be.

Scott: Ok, but you can talk to me, you know that…

Jessie: I know, babe.

Scott: Is it about what happened at Bloody Valentine? Are you still a little jittery?

Jessie: No I’m fine, Scott, just drop it, please.

Her tone is sharp and enough to let Scott know she doesn’t want this conversation to continue in this line.

Scott: Ok, ok! Geez, I’m just trying to look out for you…

Jessie: I know, darl’, but I’m just not in the mood. Listen I’m gonna go out for a while, I got some things I gotta take care of - - -

Scott: But I thought we we’re going out for dinner tonight?

Jessie: We can go tomorrow night, Scott.

She gets up and kisses his forehead before walking off and grabbing her bag from the counter top and placing some Senatorial branded bottled water into it.

Jessie: I’ll see you in a little while, babe.

Scott: Ok, bye…

As the door swings shut, Scott sighs and turns the television off. He looks back at the door before murmuring to himself.

Scott: Something ain’t right here…

He gets up and grabs his own bottle of Senatorial Water and sits back down on the couch. His eyes stare down at the coffee table as his mind does its best to try and figure out this situation.

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 4: Nick Durden vs Adrian Flamingo (Credit: Latino)

The match starts off to a slightly slow start as Flamingo and Durden begin to circle the ring staying back at one another. A few moments of silence begin to pass as the fans are getting more and more impatient. They start a big cheer as Durden and Flamingo lock up in the middle. Each man vying for control early on into the match. Nick is pushed back against the ring ropes but after taking a moment to gain some of his senses he pushes back and soon both men are back in the middle of the ring. Adrian grabs Nick by his arm and whips him into the ropes. He bounces off and Flamingo goes for a stiff clothesline but it’s quickly countered with an implant DDT that drives his face deep into the mat. Nick rolls over his opponent and then pins his arms down as he makes for an early cover. The Referee slides onto the mat and makes a count….ONE….TW0 - kickout by the Adrian as all the fans yell out “TWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

Durden stands back up as he pulls his opponent up along with him. He rattles his head with a strong right and then an equally strong left. Adrian stumbles back a few steps but then comes roaring forward with a big Bionic Elbow. Durden is taken by surprise as he falls on his back and grabs his head that is now throbbing in pain. Adrian then gives Durden a quick stomp to the face as he yells out to the fans. Flamingo then quickly gets behind Durden and effortlessly locks on his patented Flamingo Clutch. He pulls Durden up on his feet as he locks on the submission and applies the appropriate amount of pressure. Durden’s energy seems to fade off as the move continues to be applied onto him. Flamingo then whips Nick straight into the corner and quickly charges straight towards his opponent. He lets out a loud battlecry as he goes for a series of wild punches but Durden ducks and slides between Flamingo’s legs. A loud impact is heard as Flamingo crashes into the corner. After a few moments, Durden slowly gets back to his feet and at the same time Flamingo turns around. As he does so, Nick kicks him right in the stomach and without wasting a moment’s notice he locks on a front facelock and pulls out the Blue BrainWash. The impact is heard hard as both men in the mat and Nick drapes his arm over for the cover…..ONE…TWO….THREE!

Phillip: Here is your winner…Nick Durden!

It is noteworthy that, although Nick is given the three by the referee, Flamingo kicks extremely close to the wire; there is some dispute from the Flamingo camp, and although the show cuts to the break rapidly due to time constraints, the situation remains a little murky… the fans are already predicting that this won’t be the end of the matter….

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: “The Fall of Freeman” Credit: Thunderkiss

[“Paradise City” hits the sound system and out from underneath the Alpha Tron comes the ULTIMATE MALE! Accompanied by his Sports Agent, William Charles Wilcox, TK walks to the ring assaulted by a sea of boos. As usual, TK shrugs them off as just as a King shrugs off the opinions of the peasants. T Kiss steps in between the ropes and rips the microphone away from the ring announcer who gladly exits the ring fearing for his life and or appendages. TK takes the stick while Wilcox, holding a cloth bag, stands behind him.]

Thunderkiss: Now I’ve stood by long enough and watched the Entertainment Title lose it’s luster. I had to stomach watching some guy, who was so painfully boring that he wore a mask in embarrassment, hold the belt for months. Then ‘El Tardo dropped the belt to someone even worse, some punk who ducks his opponents by challenging inferior opponents and plays tag with the championship to cover up his complete and utter suckdom. That’s why tonight, I officially declare myself the NEW A.C.W Entertainment Champion as voted on … BY THE PEOPLE!

Maxwell McNally: I must have missed that vote Edison.

Eddie Edison: If TK says it, it must be true. To all at home, I’m rolling my eyes right now …

Thunderkiss: Wilcox, if you please …

[Wilcox reaches into the cloth bag and pulls out the A.C.W Entertainment Title!? The fans are riled up as they see Freeman’s E.T. title in the hands of Team Thunderkiss.]

Maxwell McNally: That’s the Entertainment Title! How did he get a hold of it?!

Thunderkiss: Do not adjust your TV sets brothers. What you are seeing is not a replica, but the real deal. Earlier today, this belt was shipped to me by the same individual who crafts the titles for Alpha Championship Wrestling. It is legit, right down to my name on the face plate. As of this moment, the E.T. title that is in Jason Freeman’s possession is just as worthless as him.

Eddie Edison: Says who?! I didn’t get any such memo from the Chairman!

Thunderkiss: Now Jason Freeman, I want you to come clean with this federation and these fans. Next Monday on Warfare, I demand that you tell the world that you are nothing more than a farce, a fraud, a fake and a complete phony. And on that same night, I want you to relinquish your fraudulent title over to me. Champions makes themselves Freeman, not the other way around. You’ve taken the shortcut here Jason, as you’ve been handed the belt not once – but TWICE! The time for hand outs is over. The time for retribution has arrived. I know you well enough to know you wont be a man about this situation and come clean. Most likely I’ll have to pry that belt out of your hands, but rest assured brother, I have the crowbar on standby.

Crowd: T-K SUCKS! T-K- SUCKS! T-K SUCKS! T-K SUCKS! T-K SUCKS! T-K SUCKS!

Thunderkiss: SHUT UP!

Crowd: BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!

Thunderkiss: If you idiots would shut up for a second, you’d also understand why this is a glorious day for another reason. Tonight I stand in front of you as a DOUBLE CHAMPION.

[TK opens up his leather jacket to reveal the L.U.E. World Title around his waist.]

Thunderkiss: Now there seem to be more than a few who say this belt around my waist is not a “real” World Title. I don’t know about you Wilcox, but I was told long ago if you could feel something and touch it – its real. The wrestling world and the wrestling fans know the truth – in front of you stands a TWO time World Champion. It is not my fault that some feel the need to protect their interests and do not recognize Legends of Uber Entertainment as being a fed legitimate enough to claim a World Title. To you people, I know what’s going on inside of you. You are looking up at the calendar each and every day, and realizing that its another day TK has been on the roster, becoming nervous as the tally marks begin to creep higher and higher. Soon, I’ll be at your level, and when that day comes – there will be no where to run, no where to hide and you’ll have to look your mistakes right in the eyes …. MY EYES. I came here full of dreams and desires but instead you apparently wanted a man full of deceit and desecration, because that’s exactly what you have on your hands now. Yes Emmerson … and even you Sylvan Mint… I am your equal THIS – BELT – DOES – NOT – LIE!

[Thunderkiss unhooks the LUE World title from his waist and raises it into the air with his Entertainment Title. Though the fans prove TK wrong by not recognizing ANY of his titles by booing him, their camera’s flashbulbs pop all around the arena representing this powerful moment. Thunderkiss smiles as he looks over at Wilcox and states – ]

Thunderkiss: Prepare yourself Wilcox. We’re going to war ….. again.

Eddie Edison: I will say this about Thunderkiss. I felt, as many did, that the general feeling is that many had hoped this man would be out of here by now. But it has become apparent, that though he gets knocked down, he gets back up. That my friends is a sign of a dangerous, dangerous man. There is no telling what this man will do at any time. Just look at his track record. Jason Freeman, I fear for you. Tonight Thunderkiss painted a big bulls eye on your chest, and now you have a man who is a borderline lunatic coming after you. Based on what we’ve seen in the last few months …. You better take this seriously.

Maxwell McNally: Will Jason Freeman be up to the challenge? We’ve seen him do well against guys like Leon Chase and Jonny Spade … but in my mind – this has to be his biggest challenge to date. Folks, we’ll be back after these commercial messages.

Fade.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Now Hold On There (Credit: XS3)

We see XS3 walking the halls in his street clothes and carrying a duffel bag over his shoulder. His eyes tell a story of anger and determination with every step he takes. Suddenly, he is stopped by none other than Chairman Gingerdude.

Gingerdude: "X, I couldn't help but hear your promo out there tonight."

XS3: "Yeah... and?"

Gingerdude: "Well, X, concerning your world title shot... I'm afraid I can't get you a title shot anytime soon. ACW's entering a real busy time and some people may be forgotten during this time."

XS3 sets down his duffel bag and stares down Ginger.

XS3: "So, what you're trying to tell me is that if I keep working harder, I may get noticed by the ACW brass one day?"

Gingerdude: "Yes, I believe everyone should work hard to get to the top spot."

XS3 smirks then picks up his bag once more.

XS3: "All right, Ginger, no problem. I'll keep doing my thing but I have to warn you: If I have to spend one more month in the midcard, I'll be grabbing my pink slip and heading out the door. No ifs, ands or buts. Understand?"

Gingerdude: "Yes, yes, I understand. Now you just go and rest up for Monday. Oh, and tell Christine I said hi."

XS3: "You got it. Thanks a lot, Ginger."

XS3 then continues walking down the halls while Ginger simply sighs and shakes his head.

Fade out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Another request (Credit: Rena / AK)

Back to the party, and at about the same time as Ginger and Alicia are cutting a deal, Rena and Rayne are upstairs, sorting through the heap of coats on the bed. Rena pulls up a black fur coat and smiles.

Rena: Wonder who or what died for this…

Rayne: Couldn’t tell.

Rena: So how are you, Rayne?

Rayne: I’m doing quite fine, thanks. It’s just…

Rena: Just what?

Rayne bites her lip slightly, and folds her arms.

Rayne: Well I have done everything around here. As you can see I’ve kept Alicia’s things in order for her. And now that Latino is back, I feel like just a third wheel charity guest.

Rena: Oh Rayne, I-

Rayne: Do you think you could do me another favor? I know I’ve already asked you for too much…

Rena: Rayne, stop treating yourself as the number one candidate for the wish foundation. What is it?

Rayne: Well I read once that if Alicia were ever to not be able to make a performance, you would step in for her and take her in-ring duties.

Rena: That’s true. But if Alicia can crawl she will make it to a performance. She’s never missed one.

Rayne: Even so, you are retired and they still have not found a replacement. I was just wondering, if-

Rena: I would talk to Ryan and Ginger about making you her replacement?

Rayne: Oh would you? I mean, I know all of her moves, and I’ve done some training in the past. I would be so grateful.

Rena smiles benignly.

Rena: I’ll tell them.

Rayne: I…don’t know what to say. Do you think they would agree?

Rena: Married women always have a way to make their husbands agree, Rayne.

They both laugh.

Rayne: Right.

Rena: Don’t worry, I’ll talk to them.

There’s a knock on the door and Charlotte comes in with her eyes rolling.

Charlotte: You guys want to come down? Biff is making one of his speeches on the stairs again. It’s something to watch, at least.

Rena: We’ll be right there.

Rayne: Thanks again.

Rena: You’re welcome, Rayne.

The women file out, to see what Biff is up to…

[[fade]]

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Questions (Credit: Hunter)

"Oh for fuck's sake." There's nothing else that he can think to say that would express his irritation with the present situation. It seems that every single time he learns something new or moderately important about his past, there is someone there to wake him up. And he's relatively confident that he knows exactly who that person is. If it weren't for the fact that he actually has something to say, he would simply stay in his room and not open the door. But Kevin is an incredibly persistent bastard, so if anything, he'd just keep knocking. And so he rises, throws on his cloak silently, and then opens the door. The camera shines a bright line in his face, one that he is clearly not used to, and Kevin instantly shoves the microphone in front of him.

Kevin: Brimstone, what are---

Brimstone: Christ, Kevin, let me breathe for a second. I have seriously got to start hanging a "Do Not Disturb" sign on this fucking door.

Kevin says absolutely nothing, startled by Brimstone's sudden bluntness. Eventually, after getting adjusted to the light and brushing himself off slightly, Brimstone nods.

Brimstone: Hit me.

Kevin looks at him oddly, and Brimstone rolls his eyes, clearly annoyed.

Brimstone: Ask a fucking question!

Kevin: Oh, right, well...umm...Brimstone, how do you feel about your loss to Wyvern at Bloody Valentine?

Brimstone rubs his eyes slightly, and then proceeds to chuckle.

Brimstone: Honestly, how many times will you ask me about matches I've lost?

Kevin: How many times will you lose them?

Brimstone pauses for a moment.

Brimstone: I won't justify that with a response, but if you attempt to insult me again, you won't see another sunrise.

Kevin quiets down instantly, and Brimstone looks into the camera.

Brimstone: The only thing I can say is that Wyvern got lucky. True, it's a very bland statement, and everyone and their mother has used it as an excuse before. But in this case, it's true. Although the final move of the match was a brilliant reversal, it only happened because I lost myself for a moment...I was in a state of weakness, as it were. For the first time that I can remember, I went through with an important move, and yet I did not think about my surroundings; all I could think about was the victory that I thought was inevitable. Had it not been for that moment of weakness...well, who knows?

Kevin: And what's next on your agenda?

Brimstone raises an eyebrow.

Brimstone: What?

Kevin: Well, you said that the people who have beaten you who you have not beaten back...as I recall, Atomic Kitsune, Alexander, Starkweather, and now presumably Wyvern...you will not face for quite some time, so as to hone your skills.

Brimstone: Yes.

Kevin: So what do you plan to do next?

Brimstone: Whatever happens, happens. If someone wishes to have a match with me, I will not hesitate to grant it, so long as it's reasonable. However, I do have my eyes set on one particular goal at the moment.

Kevin: Is this by any chance the ACW International Title, a title that Alexander Starkweather relinquished at the Bloody Valentine PPV?

Brimstone: It is indeed. Naturally, I think that many people's eyes have been set on that title for a while, and now that there's a newfound opportunity to take the title, I nor anyone else will hesitate to take it. I'll naturally assume that management is currently working on a match to give it to someone, and if I make the shortlist for the match, I'll have a more direct mindset going in...this time, I know what I'm after.

Kevin: Well, thank you, Brimstone. And with that, I think we can take a---

The door slams shut behind him, and Kevin jumps slightly because of the sudden noise. Brimstone does not bother to check if he hit Kevin (if anything, he wanted that), and instead he throws his cloak off once more, and then falls back onto the couch. He closes his eyes instantly, and he now finally gets the opportunity to think about what happened in his past. He cannot quite make perfect sense out of it yet, and all he has at the moment is the hope that he soon will. But is that enough?

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: "Snapped?" (Credit: Rattlesnake)

After Rattlesnake left the Senatorial Office, he just continues to twitch as he walks. We pick him up a good deal later on, and nothing seems to have changed. He passes by several backstage workers and tries to ignore them. One of them makes the mistake of walking up to Rattlesnake.

?: Are you alright?

Rattlesnake snaps out of his trance and looks right at the guy. He just grabs the guy by his throat and slams him up against the wall. He slowly inches forward, breathing in the guy's face.

Rattlesnake: Did I say you could mess with me you son of a bitch? You have no right to get in my face like you did Kudo!

Rattlesnake picks the guy up and throws him onto his shoulders. With a quick shift, Rattlesnake snaps off the sickest Snakebite he's even done. The guy lands face first, then the rest of his body hits the ground a split second later.

Rattlesnake jumps to his feet and looks down at the guy. He just laughs maniacally. His head starts to twitch again as he turns and walks away from the guy.

After a few minutes, a security guard catches up to Rattlesnake. He places one hand on Rattlesnake in an attempt to spin him around and confront him. Rattlesnake leaves his trance state and reacts quickly.

Security Guard: We need to talk.

Rattlesnake: Big mistake Starkweather.

Security Guard: What?

Rattlesnake spins around and managed to nail the security guard in the stomach. He sets the security guard up for a his sit-down powerbomb.

Rattlesnake: Any last words before I send you to hell?

Security Guard: Uhhh...

Rattlesnake: Too late.

Rattlesnake picks the guy up and turns to his left. He slams the guy down through a table with a sit-down powerbomb. Rattlesnake look down at what he has done and just has one reaction.

Rattlesnake: Dinner...table for 1. Ha-ha-ha-ha.

He just laughed. Out of anything he was capable of doing afterwards...he just laughs like he finally lost his mind.

Rattlesnake: Ha-ha-ha-ha. I bet you won't mess with me now. Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha.

Rattlesnake walks away as the scene fades out.

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 5: Kudo Yasuda vs Starkweather vs Rattlesnake

This match was definitely not one that anyone wanted to miss; with ego saturating the ring, all three men were at each other’s throats from the off. As expected, Stark was the most measured of the three and his cool head proved invaluable in deflecting Kudo’s furious opening attack into Rattlesnake, who was far more spiky and jittery in the ring than normal. Rattlesnake’s state of mind didn’t prevent him from battering through Kudo’s knee strikes and hitting a chokeslam for the first pin, however; Starkweather broke this up and immediately pinned Kudo himself, but the Rudo one wasn’t in any mood to tolerate this and kicked Stark off with a vicious upward knee to his abdomen which Stark was clearly feeling as he recovered to his feet.

The next few minutes were divided between strategic move and counter-move from Starkweather and Kudo, who would have gone to town testing one another out had it not been from the constant threat of Rattlesnake, who seemed happy to share out the pain between both his opponents and resisted a number of strong strikes. Eventually, Kudo and Stark combined forces temporarily to throw Rattlesnake out of the ring and then the match ignited with some thrilling exchanges; Kudo forcing the crowd to respond with three flashback elbows in a row to lead into the legendary Brainbuster. This earned him a solid 2 count, but Starkweather put in the graft to get back on equal terms, and expert targeting of Kudo’s knees and calves soon started to tell on the fiery lightweight. Reducing Kudo’s speed and mobilily was in fact the prelude to a totally brutal curbstomp; this got a loud reaction from the fans and a 2.5 count for Stark-

-But it also triggered one of Kudo’s legendary adrenaline rushes, and Starkweather would have been in serious trouble had Rattlesnake not thrust himself back into the match and almost suicidally gone head-to-head with Kudo. Countless punches and minute or two later, Rattlesnake somehow weathered the storm and used the Poisonous Venom (Chaos Theory) to create a pin; on an energy dip Kudo was in turn aided by Stark who would not let the three be given. This breaking of the cover seemed to trigger an even more manic state in Rattlesnake, just when everyone thought he had calmed down; even Stark was caught off guard and Rattlesnake delivered a beautiful vertical suplex before attempting the Snakebite. As he was elevating Stark, Kudo came off the ropes with a huge Yakuza knee; it connected to an enormous roar from the crowd, and Rattlesnake collapsed with Stark on top of him. This might have been it, but Rattlesnake somehow kicked, setting up a blazing three way finish.

The last couple of minutes of this near 20-minute contest were as hectic as the first; although their motivations were very different all three men really put their backs into some top notch wrestling, with the crowd particularly impressed by Stark’s Relapse counter to Kudo’s handspring elbow, and a sequence with Rattlesnake alternately punching both his foes with a perfect rhythm until both succumbed and fell. In the end, the three way dynamic came to bear in a classic fashion; Kudo managed to floor Rattlesnake properly with a second blistering Yakuza Knee, but Starkweather was just as quick to catch Kudo as he was landing from the move and locked in the Sensory Deprivation in the centre of the ring. With Rattlesnake unable to respond and Kudo unable to escape, Starkweather achieved a convincing victory; the ten count expired on Rattlesnake before Kudo tapped, but that was scant consolation to the Armada originator, and all three men received a loud round of applause and cheering from the fans as they left or were helped from the ring.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: The D1 Banana Grand Prix (Credit: Gooey/Jonny Spade)

The scene opens with Jonny and Gooey sitting across from each other, fidgeting this way and that with their eyes locked on to one of the two screen's on their DS. Gooey begins to have some strange convulsions and a vein pops up on the forehead of his constipated face.

Gooey: You fucking tailgating son of a bitch! Get away from me! Go!

Jonny: Come on here, can't you at least get in the top three? You're embarrassing yourself here.

Gooey: It's kinda hard when all these polygonorrhea's keep picking on me.

Jonny: You're last now, no one is picking on you-oop, just lapped you. See ya!

Gooey: Yeah, well we'll see how you like it when I cram a blue shell in your exhaust.

Jonny: This is Diddy Kong Racing. There aren’t any blue shells.

Gooey: No shit?

Jonny: Seriously, didn’t you EVEN pay attention to who you picked?

Gooey: They're all good...

Jonny: Well there’s your problem. Look at the stats and such that’s why your losing and I'm lappin’ you.

Gooey: Probably.

Jonny: Anyways, did you see what BK and Jake did earlier?

Gooey: Mhmm.

He nods and makes the noise while not taking his eyes of the screen.

Jonny: Like come-on doing that instantly makes you look stupid…especially using belts that have been out-dated since how long ago?

Gooey: More than likely used to keep their trousers up so they don't fall and reveal that they got no balls. Me though? I am all that is man!

Gooey grabs himself with a confident stiff grip, making a grunting noise

Jonny: I'm so glad my eyes are focused on the screen right now so that I didn't have to see that.

Gooey: Oh shit!

Jonny: Should've kept your hand on your DS. Anyways..

Jonny abruptly pauses the race which catches Gooey's attention.

Gooey: Wha-juh? What the hell I was just about to pass you there!

Jonny: You're talking shit. I suggest you stop eating denial bars with the lies filling. It's probably upsetting your stomach. Seriously though, when were these guys such hot shots on the tag team scene while we're sitting right here. I say that on Monday we go bug Ginger and see what benefits we can reap from him.

Gooey: Why not today?

Jonny gives Gooey a strange look, like he was ill or if something was wrong with him. Gooey not fully aware looks around slumped lazily in his chair while he lazily lets out a yawn and then lazily it hits him....very lazily.

Gooey: Oh right..

Jonny shakes his head

Jonny: Now if I can recall correctly, I was kicking your ass and will soon rub it in your face for the entire day.

Gooey: You wish, but today will be the first day I can be proud to be the fastest.

Gooey and Jonny continue on with their game as the scene comes to an end.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: On the stairs (Credit: Rena / AK)

The scene picks up where the last one left off. Latino, Ginger, Biff, Ryan, Rena, Rayne and the new girl are all gathered on and around the stairs. Several other people have wandered over to listen as Biff continues to talk about the flaws and triumphs of wrestling. Although Ginger and Biff are not natural bosom buddies, their respective businesses come first and foremost, and Ginger might just get a good deal on that new woman Biff has brought in. With that, he keeps his personal feelings at bay. A man dressed in penguin tails walks by with a platter.

Newgirl: Oh, waiter….

Biff: My dear, that is not a waiter. It’s a butler.

Newgirl: I can’t possibly say ‘oh butler’, can I? What if someone’s name is Butler?

Biff thinks about this.

Biff: You have a point. An idiotic one, but a point at the least.

Newgirl: I don’t want to cause a fuss, all I want is a drink…

Ginger, who is close by, gives her a smile. He knows this game, but he enjoys it from time to time

Ginger: I’ll get you one.

Newgirl: Thank you, Mr. Gingerdude.

As Ginger takes her empty glass and moves away, Biff leans in with a smile.

Biff: Great job. I can see your career rising like the sun.

Just as Biff is about to continue, Alicia walks into the shot; she can see that Rayne is once again perched close to Latino on the step, and the combination of liquor and jealousy proves to be a heady and dangerous combination. She approaches with an angry look in her eyes. Rayne stands up in politeness.

Alicia: Don’t stand up. Please, stop treating me like I’m the Queen Mother.

Rena immediately picks up the warning signs, and having had a drink or two herself, tries to cut Alicia off at the pass, so to speak.

Rena: Out of a beehive, Alicia, your actions are neither Queenly nor Motherly.

Alicia just laughs, with a touch of venom, and doesn’t take her eyes off of Rayne, who shifts uncomfortably.

Alicia: Oh we’re all busy bees. Sweet as honey, aren’t we honey? But I bet you’ve got a real sting on you as well.

Latino moves between Alicia and Rayne.

Latino: Alicia, that’s enough.

His quiet tone only serves to make Alicia louder, and now most people are watching the melodrama unfold.

Alicia: Oh, am I ruining the party?

Biff: You’re filled with anger and self-pity. You’re magnificent.

Ryan stands up too, deciding that only pressure of numbers is going to get Alicia to retreat before she does anything really dumb.

Ryan: I think it’s time for bed.

Alicia shoots him a booze-addled glance, and points with the finger of her hand which is holding her glass.

Alicia: You, you pose as a head-writer, and all you can think of is going to bed?

Rena: I think that’s a great idea. Very anti-climatic, but logical.

Alicia: Oh, of course. You can be the good little housewife when it suits you, right?

Rena bristles, and the air becomes more electric.

Rena: This is not a theatre, Alicia.

Alicia (loudly): Damn right, this is my house!

Rena (almost shouting): Then stop acting like the star. And stop treating the guests as your supporting cast!

Latino: Rena-

Rena: No, I think Alicia needs to realize that her personality that is appealing on-camera is not necessarily appealing otherwise!

There is a sudden silence. Alicia sways slightly, and Latino puts his hand on her arm; something resembling rationality tries to assert itself, and Alicia puts her glance down.

Alicia: Alright! I’m going to bed.

Latino, Rena, Ryan and a few others all breathe an inward sigh of relief.

Latino: I think that’s a good idea. Need help?

Alicia starts to move up the stairs, but halfway up she turns around, swinging her arm and almost knocking a couple of people down.

Alicia: You want to take me upstairs. Take off all my clothes. Tuck me in. Kiss me goodnight and wait until I am asleep. Then tip toe out. Rayne would do it, wouldn’t you Rayne?

Rayne looks uncomfortable once again, and a little hurt; she and everyone else can detect Alicia’s cutting tone.

Rayne: If you would like…

Alicia: Hah! Guess again-

She doesn’t get any further, partly because she becomes dizzy from her own whiling about, and partly because Latino catches her and carries her the rest of the way upstairs. He gives the guests an apologetic look, and then takes her by the hand and leads her into the bedroom. Biff smiles, but then snaps his fingers a waves his arm across his body.

Biff: Damn. I guess the Final act will happen behind closed doors.

Biff’s right; the party’s over, and the house empties out swiftly. As Rena is leaving, Rayne waves, and Rena waves back.

Rena: Goodnight, Rayne.

Rayne: You haven’t forgotten?

Rena smiles.

Rena: No, we will talk tomorrow.

She melts away into the night, along with the rest of the guests; it’s been an eventful evening. Rayne watches them go… and a smile crosses her lips. In her own way, she couldn’t have enjoyed herself more….

[[fade]]

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: "The Dark Hero Who Overcomes Tragedy: Memory" (Credit: Nick D)

INT. U.S. BANK TOWER, ROOFTOP – LATE EVENING

The lone figure of Reckless stands firm at the center of the roof. A close-up shows his eyes closed as the rest of his face is drawn tight in deep mediation. Suddenly, the clank of a door opening shakes him out of this trance. His eyelids quickly shoot up to reveal thoroughly bloodshot eyes, the eyes of a madman who has been obsessing over something for a while now. The camera pans sideways to reveal Nick Durden standing in the doorway.

RECKLESS
You’ve come.

NICK
What do you want now?

Reckless chuckles.

RECKLESS
I guess after all the convoluted psychological duels for these past few months, there’s no point in delaying the point much more.

Reckless turns to face Nick.

RECKLESS
At Bloody Valentine, you had the chance that you had fought for so long. That is, the chance to pay justice in full, do unto me what I did unto you. And yet...

Reckless paces his way to Nick.

RECKLESS
You chose not to. You decided to let slide the countless atrocities I committed against you. Where’d that come from?

NICK
I realized it was something you would’ve done.

What begins as a slight snicker soon erupts into uproarious laughter.

RECKLESS
Well, I guess it’s fair to say I’ve never been too much of a role model. I hope you know you’ve made me a proud man.

NICK
Somehow that isn’t quite as fulfilling as I’d thought it’d be.

RECKLESS
Oh but you should feel proud of yourself. And not only did you prove to me the superiority of your moral standing, believe it or not, you also taught me quite a valuable lesson.

Reckless’ glare is intense as ever at this point.

RECKLESS
You taught me...the value of a second chance. You dropped the ball in your attempts to protect Mick. You blew your chance at love with Renix. And yet, you were presented with opportunities to rectify all these shortcomings. No matter what our failures in the past have been, all of us are afforded a further try to make things right. Would you not agree?

NICK
Can’t say I don’t.

The corners of Reckless’ mouth immediately shoot up into a menacingly devious grin.

RECKLESS
I’m glad we see eye to eye for once. Because you see, I’m about to cash in my second chance to make things right.

In the blink of an eye, Reckless reaches into the pocket of his trench coat and pulls out a long metal spike, a replica of the one Nick almost used on him at Bloody Valentine. Reckless lunges fiercely at Nick and swings his weapon across in a wide arc. Nick barely manages to pull himself away in time to watch the spike graze across his abdomen. Nick swings his right leg around in a fierce roundhouse kick that catches Reckless square in the hand, sending the spike rolling away to the side. Nick follows up his assault with a left footed roundhouse to Reckless’ knee that effectively stuns him. Nick then lunges for Reckless’ legs successfully grounding him with a double leg takedown. Now with Reckless pinned against the cold floor, Nick looks down upon him with a fierce glower.

NICK
Let this pass, Reckless. Let it fade into memory.

Reckless throws up a final cocky smile before launching a vicious headbutt straight into Nick’s nose. Nick immediately recoils and dismounts Reckless. Reckless runs to the edge of the rooftop before turning back to Nick and speaking his final words.

RECKLESS
I will never be just a memory.

With that, Reckless falls backward, straight off the roof and out of the plane of vision. Nick springs to his feet and runs over to the edge of the building. He looks down, hoping to find a sign of Reckless’ fate, but the sight that greets him is merely the empty night sky, no sign of Reckless in sight. An ominous silence fills the scene, interrupted only by the sharp whistling of the wind...

Fade.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: New Pair of Sheriffs in Town (Credit: BK/Jake)

It's a few moments before the main event, and everyone is in their locker room anxiously awaiting the main event - well maybe not everyone. The camera gets a shot of BK London and Jake Cheng exiting their locker room, absolutely laughing it up, having a good time as they still continue to hold the two gold mysterious belts over their shoulder and their sports bag on their opposing shoulder. Luckily, Kevin Anderson is on the scene and he manages to catch up to the pair before they head off.

Kevin: Top Draw! Top Draw! Can I get a word with you?

The pair look behind them simultaneously as they see Kevin Anderson advancing towards them with a rather brisk walk.

BK: Yo Kevin, How's your chin man?

Kevin: It's...it's fine. But what we really want to know is what exactly are those? I mean, I've seen plenty of championships in ACW but I've never seen those.

BK: What these old things? Of course you've never seen them in ACW, do you SEE ACW on this belt? Can you read man? Come on....Jake, I think I'll let you do the honors.

Jake: You see Kev, paraphrasing what BK said, these belts are not from ACW. Hell, they're not from the WWE, they're not from TNA, they're not from ROH, HWL, Lion's Road, GWF, or all those other second rate feds. These belts come from the promotion where Top Draw got their start, Pee-Dubya-Bee.

Kevin: PWB? I've been in the wrestling announcing business for a while now and I've never heard about any PWB?

Jake: Never heard about PWB?

BK: Never heard about PWB? Are you mad? I think I should kick him right now, kick some sense in this dumb motherfucker.

Kevin gets ready to block himself, as he doesn't want to be on the recieving end of another kick.

Jake: Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Slow down tiger. There'll be no kicking here.

Jake clears his throat.

Jake: Pro Wrestling Bond. A fed in which every superstar there, was bonded by one thing. By the love of Pro Wrestling. Sure, we didn't like each other. Sure, each person there thought they were god's gift to wrestling, but we all respected one thing - and that's the business.

BK: That is where we truly call home, it was before ACW or GFWWE even began. Before any of the wrestlers in this building even knew each other. It was our heart and we worked hard to build it up, even getting to host our first PPV event. An event in which Jake and I became the first PWB Tag Team Champions. But due to a cruel twist of fate, the company shut down imemdiately after and we were left without jobs. But Jake managed to keep these betls. These belts signify our allegiance to PWB, not that we don't love ACW, but this was our first home - it was where we developed ourselves to become the accomplished ACW wrestlers we are today. And I am proud to wear this belt over my shoulder, because not only does this belt signify we represent PWB, but it shows we are the best tag team in ACW.

Kevin: But...but this isn't an ACW approved title, the Tag Team Championships are long gone.

Jake: True, very true. But do you see another pair of superstars who hold Tag Team Belts here huh? Does Machismo International hold a belt? Does Wyldcard hold a belt? Does "The Mormon" Nick Durden and whatever partner he can find at a back alley to defeat the Rioters hold belts? Nope. We're the only tag team champions here buddy boy, so you better get used to it. Now if you excuse us, we're going out for a night on the town.

Jake gently taps Kevin's cheek before walking off camera, and then suddenly out of nowhere - BAM! - superkick from BK London to a cheer from the crowd. Jake walks back on the screen and looks at BK.

Jake: ...come on man, what was that for?

BK: Ehh, he had it coming. Let's go party like it's 1999 Jakey-boy!

The pair walk off camera and once again a segment featuring BK ends with Kevin Anderson completely knocked out cold on the floor.

Fade Out.