Thursday Night Meltdown 8th March 2007

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 3: Jack Jefferson vs Thunderkiss (Credit: Jefferson)

This match turned out to be a superb midcard contest with both men striving to stand out in the immensely competitive midcard division. In what was a complete style-clash Jefferson got the upper-hand early on, using his greater pace and agility to dictate the pace early on. Jefferson started by connecting with a Enziguri kick followed by Guillotine Leg Drop from which he gained a One-Count. Jefferson then proceeded to connect with a series of Chops and European Uppercuts which served in driving TK back into a corner. This move may have proven a poor decision on Jefferson’s part because as he came charging in, presumably for a Running Lariat, TK managed to turn him inside out with a powerful punch to the throat. TK deemed this impactful enough to cover from but was disappointed when he only achieved a One-Count.

Jefferson attempted to use his technical prowess to gain an advantage over TK but to no avail as, following a sequence of superb chain wrestling on the part of Jefferson, TK countered a Hammerlock via an Elbow to the head and lifted Jefferson up for a Fireman’s Carry Gutbuster. TK then stomped a proverbial mudhole in Jefferson and, pardon the cliché, walked it dry before covering for Two-Count. This sparked something in Jefferson who strung together a series of a Snap Suplex, a Fisherman Suplex, and a Brainbuster, rounding it off with a Two-Count.

With both men visibly tiring, the pace of the match dropped and this suited TK no end as he proceeded to take control of the match by hitting numerous power moves such as the Bearhug, the Rapid Fire Clotheslines, and the Side Slam whilst Jefferson relied on counters. Jefferson was the first to come truly close to gaining victory as he countered an attempted Fireman’s Carry into a Gutbuster with a Small Package, with TK kicking out at 2.9. Jefferson used this as a platform from which to mount a comeback, hitting a Catatonic Backbreaker, a Ura-Nage Backbreaker and a Half-Nelson Lift Backbreaker all in quick succession. Jefferson then looked to finish off TK when he locked in the High Elevated Crab but after a good 30 seconds of struggling through the pain TK reached the ropes and Jefferson was forced to relinquish his hold.

The match came to a close when TK narrowly avoided becoming a victim to Jefferson’s Blizzard Suplex and instead began his deadly “Five Moves of Doom” sequence from which Jefferson was powerless to escape. Needless to say, Thunderkiss rounded of a spectacular match with a victory which didn’t sit too well with the fans. I don’t think a victory either way would have satisfied them in all honesty.

Winner: Thunderkiss via Pinfall.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Three’s….awkward (Credit: Shawn/Starkweather)

Sigh. Oh, to be in the mind of the raven-haired girl standing across from him.

Her arms are crossed as they always are when she's being confident, that steady smirk that she plasters over her real emotions like he wears that disturbing smiley face when she's trying not to let her emotions show. The steadily tapping foot, more than likely a nervous tic due to being anxious or worried. Starkweather is somewhat surprised that Umeko Saito isn't chewing any gum at the moment.

They are preparing for the tag-team match, of course. Starkweather and Umeko seem to be staring at one another and attempting to have some kind of conversation simply through body posture, and the still-silent obelisk of muscle known as Chance Emmerson stands with the title around his waist.

Umeko: I’m sure that you both rea—

With a blinding speed, Chance makes a few aggressive steps forward. Umeko’s face, red with a combination of embarrassment in rage, contorts awkwardly as she merely holds up her hand. Then, she wastes no time in voicing her displeasure.

Umeko: Now is neither the time nor the place for you to demonstrate that you still have what I’ve recently told you that you sorely lack, my Tiger. I’m embarrassed by your lack of restraint and I have half the mind to…well…I’d better not lose my temper. Why don’t you be a good boy and massage my shoulders while I talk over things with our “old friend?”

Humiliating one lover in front of another is something that Umeko can’t quite say she’s done before now…and it’s a feeling of power that she honestly finds quite intoxicating. Chance, for his part, is unbelievably enraged by this entire ordeal. If he knew that her feelings for Starkweather were more than just business…then things would likely get very, very ugly right now. However, he hasn’t a clue at the moment, so he holds his tongue and obediently goes right to his assigned task.

The good doctor watches this all with quite a detached gaze. He's quite thoughtful, but isn't letting it show in the least. Of course he realizes what she is doing. She's demonstrating to him quite exactly what she's able to make a properly trained dog do in the face of other stimuli. He crosses his arms over his vest-covered chest and cocks his head slightly.

Stark: I don't know why we need this motivational little pow-wow... Honestly. It's only BK London and Jake Cheng. I don't recall either of us having that hard a time of it.

Umeko doesn’t need to think over his words that much…not that she’s focusing on his words that much in the first place. He does have a very interesting pair of eyes. They’re always measuring...always thinking. She’d love to know what he’s thinking almost as much as he’d love to know the same about her. Once she gets around to realizing what he’s suggested, she can’t help but chuckle.

Umeko: You’re right… Perhaps I’m fretting a bit too much about this…I know that we’re all going to be on the same page. This reminds me… Why don’t you go and finish your preparations, my Tiger? I need to speak with the good Doctor about matters that would likely bore you to tears, I’m afraid.

Chance doesn’t need to be told twice…he’s uncomfortable being in the room anyway. This entire ordeal has gotten under his skin far worse than most people realize. It’s made him angry. When he’s angry; he’s unfocused. When he’s unfocused; he’s deadly…deadly for everybody involved. So, as the scene fades to black, he walks off with a hint of brooding, uncontrollable rage.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: + = (Credit: Scott)

Many wonder where the hell Scott Andrews was on Monday. He was seen on occasion, running through the halls, but no-one was fast enough to catch him for whatever reason. He seemed to be in a hurry and looking for something…or someone.

Three days on and he sits alone on one of the Senatorial lounge suites. His leg bounces up and down slightly as he stares into nothingness, obviously having a long hard think about something.

The door opens. Scott keeps his gaze fixed.

Jessie: Hey, darl.

Scott: Where were you on Monday?

Scott’s tone has a hint of both anger and worry. He wants answers.

Jessie: I was at a friends place…

She sounds convincing enough but Scott think so.

Scott: And you couldn’t call me to let me know? I was running around looking for you everywhere. I was worried sick! I almost missed my match to boot!

Jessie: We were having so much fun, I guess I kinda just forgot about it, sorry, baby. I’m here now though, isn’t that good enough?

She embraces Scott with a hug. He accepts the gesture, but as his head lies across her shoulder his face shows signs of disappointment and possibly even sadness. Is Jessie doing what he thinks she’s doing? Not Jessie Young, surely…

Jessie: I’m gonna cook some dinner, you want some?

Scott sits back down on the couch. He’s still not sure what’s going on and his mind is capable of many things. Sure, he has his assumptions, but even Scott knows, to assume, you make an ‘ass’ out of ‘u’ and ‘me’. He’ll reserve his judgment, as was his new pledge post Winters Discontent.

Jessie: Scott?

Scott: Uh, sorry, Jess. Yes, please. That would be most kind of you, dear.

Jessie turns on the Senatorial kitchen appliances (yes, they have their own kitchen) and begins to prepare the meal.

Scott: I’m just going for a walk. I’ll be back in time for dinner though, hun.

Jessie: Ok, Scott. See ya’ when you get back.

Scott walks over to the door and exits the locker room. As the door finally closes, Jessie looks down at the food in front of her and sighs.

Fade Out.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: The Great Nicholas (Credit: Hunter)

I have always considered myself to be a very honest person. Now, that does not mean that I necessarily do not lie; even those who say they do not, do. But when it comes down to it, I lie...say...well, let us just stick with "not often" and be done with it. Now, since the time I last left you, I had intercepted the Tughazzi family. Well...okay, I was not incredibly specific about what I had done, besides knock out a man known as Petey the Arm, meet the Don of the Tughazzi family, and then walk off with him into the sunset. Something to that effect, anyways. To tell you the truth, the scene I wish to show you next takes place roughly a year or so after that event. The main reason for this is because that is when I began to fully follow through with the second phase of my plan...well, that, and I obviously had to work myself up through the Tughazzi family, and I did not want to simply retell the plot of Goodfellas for you.

So, after the some-odd year had passed, I was one of the closer advisers to Nicky Tughazzi. Do not ask me how I managed to do this; I blame it on my convincing ability to act angry, strong, and Italian, and also on my cunning intellect. And you cannot disagree with me on that...after all, I am honest. Regardless, at the moment you will find me standing outside of a broken down building in the middle of Brooklyn, a white cigarette-esque object between my right middle and index fingers. It is not a real cigarette, naturally; I find smoking to be a filthy habit. But to these people, smoking is one of the more "badass" things one can do. But considering, what, sixty percent of the world does it anyways, you would think that they would not see it that way...oh well, it is not like I wish to complain.

Man: He'll see ya now.

I turn to face the now open door of the broken down building, which is firmly held in place by a hulking man who is no doubt some sort of bodyguard. I nod, take one last fake drag from the "cigarette," and then drop it on the ground, following him inside. Word of advice to all would be mobsters: make your place of business broken down; the cops rarely seem to check broken down buildings because they think that mobsters would want something more extravagant.

Man: Through there.

The bodyguard stands perfectly still (after folding his arms menacingly, of course) and motions to the other side of a dark door with a small hole through it. It is not big enough for a bullet, but it is big enough to hear through...I think I can settle on that. The door slams shut behind me, and a somewhat fat man sits before me, and he lights a cigar with a lighter between his fingers. I think I have finally figured out the ranking system of the mafia: the higher ranked people smoke cigars, the middle ranked people smoke cigarettes, the lower ranked people smoke pot, and those that do not smoke better start...or, in my case, appear to start.

?: Who the fuck are you?

Convincing, Mikey Lewis, convincing.

My name is Mikey Lewis.

He takes another drag from his cigar. Clearly I got overzealous in thinking that my name would mean something to him.

I am a sort of consultant to Nicky Tughazzi.

I hear a quick click behind me. Perhaps I am mistaken in my "that hole is not big enough for a bullet" theory. Hell, they might make it big enough. Clearly, name dropping Francisco Pulcinni's arch rival is not the most intelligent of choices.

Pulcinni: ...and what the fuck do you want?

To...talk.

Honesty first, everyone. Because in certain situations, it will save you ever so much. In this one, particularly, for even I cannot hide the showing tells of the liar, so telling the truth would prevent me from getting a bullet in my head...at least, this soon.

Pulcinni: What the fuck about?

I have been considering starting a sort of pool with my fellow mobster friends: he who hears the most usages of the word "fuck" in a single week gets the accumulated earnings in the pool. Thing is, they would cheat (because they are Italian) and they would probably swear themselves (because they are Italian). I am not prejudice by any means; if you can find me an Italian who has not once cheated or sworn, I will give you my house.

About Mr. Tughazzi, and about our best interests.

Pulcinni: Our?

Keep it cool, "Mr. Lewis." It is not his fault that he has such a funny accent.

Yes. I have a sort of...proposition for you.

He leans back slightly. Let us hope that he has dealt with my kind before.

Pulcinni: You have two minutes to keep me interested.

I can settle for that.

Fair enough. Now, it is no secret to anyone that my boss, Mr. Tughazzi, is one of your enemies...likely your biggest, in fact. And clearly, were he to be out of the picture, your business would succeed quite well...or, at least, better than it is now.

Add something.

Not that it is not succeeding now.

Still alive? Then you did well.

I have spoken to my comrades, and we all seem to have come to the conclusion that, although still brilliant, Mr. Tughazzi is clearly on the verge of insanity of sorts. And we all agree that you are the more stable of the two heads of the "feuding families." So, I figured that if you were to let my friends and myself enter your business, we could fix the Tughazzi problem for you.

He pauses to think...I assure you, that is a very good sign.

Pulcinni: How do you plan on fixing the problem?

By putting a bullet into Nicky Tughazzi's head.

He looks at me, still in deep concentration. Going against one's own aligned partner is not generally the definition of the word "honest." Nor, come to think of it, is aligning with their enemy and killing them in the first place. But to put it simply: if he agrees to it, the second phase of the plan is complete. There are only a select few phases left before all of this can carry on. I wonder, dear reader: have you figured out what my plan is? I would offer you some sort of treat for guessing correctly, but I think that would be dishonest. And I have always considered myself to be a very honest person.

...well, sort of...

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Even in the darkness he can see its golden aura, and it blinds him every time he looks at it. To think that this simply piece of gold and leather is one of the only things he has sought his entire time in ACW. And now that he has it, he is not sure how to feel. Clearly he is happy, what with winning it, and especially with finally pinning Atomic Kitsune, much to his heart's content. But...is this really what he wanted? It is almost match time, he knows this. He grabs it and throws it over his shoulder, as his cloak had already been thrown on. He grabs the doorknob and opens the door...and comes face to face with the same person he saw last week. He looks down at them with a completely expressionless look, and then simply shakes his head.

Brimstone: I can't. I have a match.

He knows that this will upset the person. But he cannot risk his job and his state of mind at the moment...not that it isn't already at risk. He walks off briskly, so as the person cannot call for him to return. Clearly there will be repercussions to this. But at the moment, he is more concerned with his match. Fighting a new enemy is not always easy, but he still thinks it is better than fighting the same one and never winning.

End.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 4: Brimstone vs Nick Durden (Credit: Ross Lambert)

Brimstone VS Nick Durden was a highly anticipated contest and it certainly wasn’t a disappointment. Durden got the early lead with an STO and got some kicks in, Durden got a little over confident early on and tried to hit an Irish Screwdriver but Brimstone rolled out and plowed through Durden with a Running Lariat followed by a snappy Immolation which showed the fans who was in control, Brimstone looked to hit a German but Durden elbowed out the way of harm and hit a vicious Sit-Out Jawbreaker, Durden looked for a Tumbling Lightning but Brimstone brought his knees up.

Brimstone hit a Dead-Eyes and thought the time had come, he hooked his opponent Durden for a Black Death but Durden rolled off the back and pushed Brimstone into the ropes and looked to hit a jammy roll-up but Brimstone kicked out, Nick stalks Brimstone and looks to hit a Blazing Magus from the middle-rope, he connects and BS is down.

Nick rolls out the ring and pulls out a chair from under the ring. He throws it into the ring and follows in, he pulls Brimstone into the corner and puts down the chair opposite him, he backs into the opposite corner and looks to run but the ref interferes and tries to stop him, he barges past the ref and storms at the chair, he hops onto it but Brimstone lurches forward and hits a slide-kick into the chair, the chair flies out from under Durden’s feet and he lands face-first into the turnbuckle.

Durden crashes down to the mat and Brimstone pulls up his victim and drags him to the middle of the ring, he hits The Black Death and hooks both legs of Durden.

One.

Two.

Three.

Phillip Jones: Here is your winner… BRIIIIIIIIMSTOOOOOONEEE!!!!!

Brimstone rolls out of the ring to a fade.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: Directions? (Credit: Starkweather/Shawn)

Our scene opens not even a minute after Chance left the room last time. With a plotting smile on her face, Umeko quickly cuts to the very next subject on her mind.

Umeko: You know, his hands aren’t really adept to being gentle… I’m afraid to say I’ve made him a touch more militant than I probably should have. It’s a shame too…

She leans seductively over onto the table with a playful expression on her lips. Her voice manages to fit the mood quite nicely. She tries to bait him into what she hopes is the beginning of a familiar little game…and as such she realizes that her moves make her intentions obvious.

Umeko: Because my shoulders are terribly sore at the moment…

He really doesn't yet know how to best deal with her when she's being as, well, tawdry as she seems to be getting into the habit of being in private. Yes, his baser urges are screaming to him to do precisely what she wants, but his higher brain easily overrides them as it's done a thousand times before.

He leans over as well, resting his head on his forearms as his arms rest on the table, looking her square in her smoky eyes with a faint smirk on his face.

Stark: Ms. Saito... You're going to give me the wrong idea about you if you keep up with these games.

She frowns and props back in her chair for just a second. Then, she sits back down and it’s almost like she’s a different person than before. The cheerful warmth from before is gone, and classic Umeko has returned in its place.

Umeko: Fine. You want the Ice Queen…then that’s what you’ll get. A tad closer to the real me anyway… No games for today...I have a few bigger questions for you anyway. The first one being, what do you think I should do about the Senatorial Stable. The second…and infinitely more important question is…could you possibly give me directions to your home. Last time I was a bit incapacitated, as you’ll recall. I have no clue if it’s even in the state.

Inward sigh. How long did this girl have of her childhood before it was taken away? There's something there, there has to be. There needs to be a reason that she has only two modes. He stands, not answering her questions, simply walking around the table and with a short hop sitting on it, his knees roughly parallel to her shoulders. His hands rest on his knees and he looks down at her pouting form.

Stark: I'd like to see the real you sometime.

Her ears perk up and she gives him a half-smile. For just a second…she’s completely genuine.

Umeko: Maybe you’ll get your chance…

She just looks at her hand for a second…it’s a strange moment. In a moment she feels guilt, anger, and even a bit of something that can only be called love. She finds herself at a bit of an impasse. She can’t honestly say she doesn’t have feelings for two different people…and they both appeal to her in, pardon the pun, starkly different ways. Her tastes, it seems, are as fractured as her personality tends to be at times.

Umeko: We’ll both let our guards down eventually...

She reaches her small, soft hand up and gently caresses the side of his head just once…and he doesn’t seem to mind. It’s an innocent gesture…a pure moment. A brief moment of humanity between two people who are, quite often, monsters.

Umeko: My questions still stand. I can’t be expected to look you up in the phonebook…or can I? I’ve never actually thought of that. Also, I’d appreciate it if you could give me an idea as to how to control this whole Senatorial Stable mess… I have my own ideas, but I’d appreciate your thoughts on the matter.

He leans back, not entirely to escape her reach though she has a suspicion that he's not the type to enjoy far too much touching. An emotionally distant and physically distant person, feeling the most comfortable when someone was capable of being pryed off for one reason or another. Yes, for one moment they lock eyes, see that electricity that sparked their first spontaneous night... But they both almost recoil from it in guilt for many reasons before resuming the conversation.

Stark: Those men... Their power lies chiefly in their numbers, and their hubris is their flaw. They feel the need to win matches by themselves and the chink in their armor lies there, as a team they are too in-tune with one another. They can be forced apart, they can be beaten. Your dog has proven how vulnerable most of them are without their comrades.

Umeko: Wonderful…Sun Tsu would be pleased with your theory. I think I shall have to deal with them come Monday…well…deal with them in a sense. I think the divide and conquer plan has worked pretty well thus far, as you’ve said. Now…before I forget again… I really need directions.

Interesting... He isn't at all the type to do thee sorts of things, of course. He isn't the sort of person to really... Do anything along these lines. He watches her for a second, they capable of staring into one another’s eyes for longer than most people were able to without feeling uncomfortable for some reason... Which reminds him of that first night, interestingly enough. Her eyes were all he focused on. With his own eyes, anyway.

Stark: I'll tell you what. Since we'll more than likely be taking both of our cars there, you don't need to do anything more than follow me.

Umeko: Logical enough… I’ll have to keep my Tiger occupied with something else, but I think I’ll be able to think up something.

There's a pregnant pause for a moment, they simply looking at one another. But Starkweather stands, looking down at her. She naturally begins to feel somehow inferior and stands herself, her front barely brushing along his as she does, she beginning to smile that sultry smirk of hers before he speaks and quiets down her overbearing demeanor.

Stark: I expect this to seem strictly business as it pertains to others. I know you above others can hide motivations, and it is very important that certain parties don't know about recent events.

A glance down at the closeness of their bodies, to anyone else but an intimate pair it'd be nearly impossible to stand. To them, however, it merely makes them draw back at once before that spark ignites again.

Umeko: Don’t worry…he won’t have a clue.

The scene fades to black as Umeko’s words close the entire matter.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 5: Rattlesnake vs Latino (Credit: Nick D)

OoOooOoOoOoO LATINO!!!!!!!!!!

The beats of War's "Lowrider" begins to play as the lights dim down and a spotlight shines at the entrance. The crowd stands up and starts to boo the former World Champion. Latino walks through the curtains and looks around with a smirk on his face as he slaps his chest slowly and with much ferocity. Latino walks down the entranceway occasionally looking left and right at the fans in the front row. Some hold out hands while others yell out word that cannot be heard on television.

Phillip Jones: Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall. Introducing first, from New York City...weighing in at two hundred and forty-four pounds...“THE LATIN KING”...LAAAAAAAAATIIIIIIINOOOOOOO!

“Fast” Eddie Edison: A most pleasant hello to those of you watching from home. Maxwell McNally and “Fast” Eddie Edison hoping that you’re having a wonderful Thursday night joining us here for Meltdown. It’s been a slew of action thus far, as should be expected, but it’s about to pick up substantially now as Rattlesnake faces Latino.

Maxwell McNally: You can’t help but wonder what kind of shape Latino is gonna be in to face such a treacherous foe. In addition to all the escalating drama between him and his wife, he’s also amassed a losing streak that’s becoming awfully wide awfully quickly, but if I had to place my money on any superstar to bounce back from adversity, my money is most definitely on none other than Victor Laureano.

He then jumps on the ring apron and holds up an arm, garnering another round of boos from the crowd as he slips inside the ring.

The lights fade to black. Two green spotlight shine across the fans and stop at the top of the entrance ramp. The spotlights quickly shut off shortly after.

Don’t fear the reaper, fear the Rattler

"Blind" by Silverchair hits. 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 boos from the fans. He starts walking down to the ring again.

Jones: And his opponent, from Orlando, Florida...weighing in at two hundred and seventy-seven pounds...“THE VISION OF GREATNESS”...RRRRRRRATTLESNAAAAAAAAKE!

McNally: Last we saw of Rattlesnake, his alter ego made a comeback in most disturbing fashion. As if the reigning Emperor of the Ring wasn’t dangerous enough on his own, the fact that his sadistic counterpart could make an appearance at any moment adds a new element of danger to his already volatile nature.

As he inches closer to the ring, the arena lights slowly come back on until he reaches the steps. 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. However, Latino doesn’t seem interested in starting the match legitimately. Just as Rattlesnake is about to jump down, Latino blindsights him with some clubbing forearms across his back.

DING, DING, DING!

Latino pulls Snake off the turnbuckle and whips him into the opposing corner. Once Snake bounces off and stumbles forth, Latino charges at him to strike with a stiff running calf kick.

Edison: Latino seems to be paying plenty of mind to his losing streak as well. It’s obvious he’s determined to snap it, even if he has to use less than honorable tactics.

An evidently shaken Snake rolls to the outside, but Latino is quick on the pursuit and exits the ring to stand on the apron, leaping off to strike with a crossbody soon afterward! Latino pulls Snake to his feet, only to ground him again with a snapmare. As Snake remains seated, Latino slaps him across the back with a soccer kick. Latino then runs a few steps in the direction Snake is facing and quickly runs back toward him to land a dropkick into Snake’s face.

McNally: Latino certainly isn’t winning a copious amount of style points, but these smash-mouth tactics are very effective in piercing the armor of a bruiser like Rattlesnake.

Latino rolls Snake into the ring and slides in after him. Snake rises to a seated position, and Latino’s reaction is immediate as he buries the sole of his foot across Snake’s face. Snake rolls over and pushes himself up onto all fours, but this only leaves his stomach open for a toe kick from Latino.

Edison: Rattlesnake truly unable to find any kind of respite whatsoever. Latino is all up on him like stink on shit!

Latino takes to the mat and applies a grounded sleeper hold. He then pushes Snake so that he rolls over onto his stomach and wraps his legs around Snake’s waist in an attempt to further weigh him down. This is certainly a well-planned approach, but strategy would prove incapable of overcoming Snake’s sheer brawn. Snake pushes up to all fours. After taking a few moments to collect some ragged breaths, he gets to one knee, Latino still clinging tightly onto him like a parasite. Finally, Snake manages to rise to both feet. Needless to say, Latino is thoroughly stunned at this superhuman display of strength as he continues to desperately hang to Snake. Snake reaches behind his head to grab the back of Latino’s head and pulls him forward. This motion flips Latino over Snake’s head and causes him to crash back-first to the mat! Snake raises Latino to his feet but keeps him bent over so that he can drill him in the back with a forearm strike. Snake grabs Latino by the back of the head and tosses him over the top rope, but instead of tumbling to the outside as Snake had hoped, Latino holds onto the top rope and pulls himself up so that he stands on the apron. As Snake makes his way toward Latino again, Latino sticks his head in between the middle and top rope and tries to thrust his shoulder into Snake’s gut, but Snake pulls himself back at the last possible moment. With Latino’s back exposed, Snake takes advantage with yet another clubbing forearm. Now with Latino adequately stunned, Snake applies and front facelock and falls straight backward, pulling Latino through the ropes and driving his head into the mat with a DDT!

1..................

.........2....

KICKOUT

Snake pulls Latino to his feet and grabs hold of him in a two-handed chokehold. Still holding onto Latino’s neck, Snake throws him into the corner. Snake drills Latino in the gut with a few knee thrusts, whipping him into the opposite corner afterward. Snake makes a beeline for Latino and attempts to land a right-legged yakuza kick, but Latino steps out of the way. Snake’s leg sails over the top rope as his crotch meets the top turnbuckle. Latino grabs hold of Snake’s right foot and pulls back to hyperextend Snake’s ankle. Latino is sure to milk as much of the five count as possible before breaking the illegal hold. Snake pulls his leg over the top rope and leans against the corner. Latino is quick to continue his assault and slugs Snake a few times. He then traps Snake in a front facelock before spinning around to sit on the top rope. Latino pushes off to spin 180 degrees, hoping to plant Snake in a tornado DDT, but Snake manages to shove Latino off his shoulders. Latino lands on his feet, but it takes him a split second longer to fully gain his balance. This split second is all Snake needs to strike with four lightning quick left jabs. The subsequent waving motion of his arms foreshadows the vicious clothesline that concludes the patented Jab Combo! Snake covers.

1.................

..........2....

KICKOUT

Snake runs to the ropes and drops an elbow onto Latino’s sternum. He rises to his feet and drags Latino along with him. Snake then scoops Latino up onto his shoulder and begins making his way to the turnbuckle, setting up for what appears to be a snake eyes, but Latino wriggles out of Snake’s grasp and lands on his feet behind Snake. Before Snake can turn to face Latino again, Latino lands a dropkick into Snake’s back. Snake stumbles to the corner and collides face-first with the turnbuckle. Latino reaches in between Snake’s legs and rolls him up into a schoolboy, being sure to place his legs onto the middle rope for extra leverage. Keiji Makabe notices the illegal maneuver immediately and sternly demands that Latino break the pinfall. Latino begrudgingly dismounts Snake but immediately gets back to the attack with some stomps into Snake’s hulking chest. Latino pulls Snake up to his feet and places his head underneath Snake’s arm. Latino then falls backward to flip Snake over in a release northern lights suplex! Latino with the legitimate cover this time.

1..............

.......2.....

KICKOUT

Latino raises Snake to his feet, making sure to stun him first with an inverted atomic drop. Latino runs to the ropes and rebounds with a shoulder block that effectively grounds Snake. Latino runs to the ropes. As he comes running back toward Snake, Snake rolls over onto his stomach. Latino hurdles over the prone Snake and continues running toward the opposite ropes. When he bounces off this time, Latino executes a baseball slide in between Snake’s legs. When Snake turns to face him, Latino has gotten to his feet and plants a dropkick into Snake’s knee. Snake limps around the ring, eventually spinning around to face Latino again. Latino subsequently runs at him and grabs hold of his head. Latino then uses the momentum from his run to spin around 180 degrees while dropping to his knees, thereby driving the crown of his head underneath Snake’s chin in a spinning jawbreaker! This still fails to take Snake off his feet, and so Latino runs to the ropes again. This time, however, Snake anticipates Latino’s move and catches him in a powerslam! Snake covers.

1..............

........2.........

KICKOUT!

As Snake rises to rest on his knees, it’s evident the tenacity of his opponent has him surprised, perhaps even concerned, but it doesn’t substantially shake the grizzled vet, who expertly continues his attack. He pulls Latino up and whips him into the corner, but Latino runs up to the top rope and soars off to crash down on Snake with a moonsault! Latino labors his way to his feet only to mount the top rope again. He waits until Snake gets up as well and flies off with two clasped hands raised high above his head, prepared to deliver a double axe handle, but Snake snatches him right out of midair and plants him in a spinebuster! Snake quickly moves over to Latino’s head and raises him into a seated position before applying an inverted facelock. Snake then viciously wrenches back on Latino’s neck to lock in the Constrictor! Latino’s arms and legs flail wildly as he tries to fight his way out. However, this only acts to goad Snake into locking in the hold even tighter. It eventually becomes too much for Latino, and he taps out!

Phillip: Here is your winner, RRRRRRATTLESNAAAAAAAKE!

The bell rings, but Rattlesnake seems to have crossed that invisible line; that chilling laugh returns and he refuses to let Latino go. To his credit, the referee calls for security at once; a combination of brute force, Latino’s own struggles and Rattlesnake’s internal battle for control finally breaks the hold, and security escorts Rattlesnake to the back for his and everyone elses’ safety as EMTs check over Latino in the ring…

Fade to the break.

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: A phone call and a plan (Credit: Rena/AK)

As the show returns, the scene opens up in a plush room. Inside, Rena Matheson is pacing to and fro, speaking to someone out of shot. She has a concerned look on her face.

Rena: I can’t even think of why Alicia would act like that…

The shot pulls back and reveals Rena’s husband.

Ryan: I knew she was pretending as if she had no idea that there was a try-out going on. We were just lucky Rayne stepped in.

Rena sighs.

Rena: Really, I just don’t know what’s got into Alicia these days.

Ryan: I think-

A sound is heard of another phone ringing, cutting off their conversion briefly. The camera finally has time to make rounds of the room to show Rena’s fabulous office. After her retirement, it seems her office had not changed and it continues to flourish. It seems as if it is a separate entity of the entire building, as it looks like a New York suite, decadent and beautiful. Ryan answers the phone, as Rena has no desire to talk to anyone.

Ryan: Hello? Hey vic. No, I didn’t know that. Why would she? Do you need a place to stay? I see. Well, I wish you could come. No, I agree. Thank you.

He hangs up, piquing Rena’s interest. Before she can ask he spins around to inform her.

Ryan: That was Victor, he sounds pretty rough after his match. He and Alicia are still on bad terms, he’s still staying at the old apartment.

Rena: Oh, Alicia…

Ryan: He was just calling to say that he won’t be with us on our weekend trip.

Rena stamps her foot and puts her hand on her hips.

Rena: Oh for God’s sakes, that woman needs to learn her boundaries. This weekend was supposed to be for all of us. Now she has gone and ruined it.

Ryan: Well, we don’t have to go-

Rena: No, we will. She’s not ruining it for us. I’m sure she will still be going.

Ryan: I couldn’t tell you, no one’s seen her at all tonight. No match, no-show, it seems.

Rena: Oh, for fucks sakes. I am just going to call that bitch right now!

Ryan tries to calm her.

Ryan: Rena, stop.

Rena: I know I shouldn’t call my friend a bitch, but she’s not being anything but one. This little role she has decided to play lately is getting tiring on the audience.

The audience’s reaction to this is mixed; some agree with Rena’s assessment, but others are more on Alicia’s side and boo the comments. Ryan shakes his head.

Ryan: I just don’t understand, when did she decide to run the town anyway?

Rena: It’s time that the piano realizes they cannot re-write the concerto.

Rena still looks determined to do something. Ryan holds up a hand, trying to defuse the situation.

Ryan: Just… don’t call her.

Rena: I won’t. I have another phone call to make.

Ryan: To whom?

Rena: Never you mind. Now go do some work. I have some work of my own.

Looking slightly skeptical, Ryan acquiesces.

Ryan: Fine. But be good.

Rena: I always am.

He kisses her on the head before moving into the hallway. Rena picks up the phone and dials a few numbers.

Rena: Rayne? Listen. I have a plan. Alicia and I will be gone for the weekend, and I have an idea for Monday…

She continues her conversation, but the camera does not. How else is ACW to create suspense?

[fade]

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Segment: “The Renaissance Man” (Credit: Kudo)

“Poison” overtakes the ACW speakers and flashing scenes of recent Kudo wrestling bouts flicker on the Alphatron monitor as the man himself steps into view and quickly rolls into the ring. The music cuts out at its peak and Kudo grabs a mic from the staff situated outside the ring. The fans half boo and half cheer for him as he paces around the ring, waiting for the right time to start speaking. “KU-DO” chants slightly sprout up amongst dedicated supporters, but there is also an overwhelming “SUCKS!” chant that comes out in unison after that. Before it gets too hectic, Kudo quiets them all down.

Kudo: And now, ladies and gentlemen…I present to you…me.

Boos quickly arise once again, but Kudo merely basks in his ability to get an early rise out of the fans.

Kudo: I grace your eyes and your television sets at home and steal you from the spell of boredom brought on by a Kudo-less ACW product on Meltdown here tonight, and I give you the next 10 seconds to pour your thanks out from your seats over to me.

Kudo raises his head and along with the increasing volume of boos, a cup of beer comes flying into the ring, but misses Kudo completely. The message is clear though. After 10 seconds, which Kudo looks to seriously be counting in his head, he takes to the mic once more.

Kudo: I mean, who would you rather see live and on your TV’s for hours at a time?

The crowd begin scattered solo chants of their favorite wrestlers, or anyone at this point, just to get a rise out of Kudo now. Kudo straightens his sunglasses and lowers his brows.

Kudo: Whatever. The correct answer is me.

~boo~

Kudo: You see, I bring to ACW, and I bring to you, the epitome of Light Heavyweights everywhere, the fusion of undeniable talent and appeal standing right before you tonight.

Chants of “you tapped out” begin formulating in the crowd, referring to Kudo’s most recent submission loss to Wyvern’s Deus Ex Machina.

Kudo: Yeah? Well the only thing I’m tapping out to tonight are the so called “performances” I’ve seen put on in this ring. Really, I would rather take the Deus Ex Machina for hours on end or hell, I'd much rather be forced into a 3 hour long Camel Clutch from Gooner than be forced to endure an entire show of this. And by the way, you’re welcome for the brief moment of relief I offer to you all tonight. You see, as far as I’m concerned, ACW is at a Dark Age, an era where appeal has dropped, respect is dying, and the overall product leaves much to be desired. Where stars come and go and come back again, only to go once more. Names fade, faces fade, but the fans don’t. And that is what I bring to the table. I bring consistency through and through. ACW knows what to expect from me, and I expect nothing less from the Armada.

Kudo’s words fall on deaf ears but he continues without stuttering.

Kudo: People talk about a so called curse, following Emperor of the Ring. But there is no curse, there is only depression when Kudo Yasuda loses. Whenever that happens, kittens and puppies all around the world die of heart failure having to watch Kudo take a step back to such sub par competition that can’t seem to make use of their ability, or their position.

A mixed reaction comes up again as Kudo pulls off his sunglasses for dramatic effect.

Kudo: Hear my words tonight, but feel them resonate through my body when I dominate the light heavyweight division like no other. Believe it.

“Poison” bursts back on the speakers as Kudo stares directly into the camera, quite serious in composure before steadily making his way back up the ramp, avoiding the fans’ outstretched arms in the process. His recent losses have tarnished his position at the main event, but he could soon be deciding to bank on his trial series against the legends of ACW once more to regain respect for himself, and his championship belt.

-Fade Out-

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Match 6: Top Draw vs Chance Emmerson and Starkweather (Credit: BK)

The main event is imminent; the crowd is up for it, and they cheer as Philip enters the ring.

Phillip: This match is a tag team match scheduled for one fall, coming to the ring, weighing in at 215lbs, from Los Angeles, California, Starkweather!

"Descending" by Lamb of God sounds throughout the arena and to an immense amount of boos, the former International Champion steps onto the stage after his silouette routine. He looks from side to side, looking in total disgust at the crowd before continuing to strut down to the ring not responding to the boos and jeers from the crowd. He rolls under the bottom rope and into the ring where he begins to stretch as he awaits his partner.

Phillip: And his partner, coming to the ring weighing in at 295lbs, from Tokyo, Japan, he is the ACW Heavyweight Champion, Chance "Tiger VII" Emmerson!

"The Velvet Glove" sounds through the speakers and coming from behind the curtain, accompanied by Umeko Saito is none other than the ACW Heavyweight Champion, Chance Emmerson who towers over her. They slowly tread down to the ring, looking far and wide at the legion of ACW fans before they even enter the ring. Umeko walks up on the apron and enters the ring while Chance simply hops up on the apron and steps over the top rope with ease. They make no eye contact with Starkweather as they await their opponents.

Phillip: And their opponents, coming to the ring weighing in at a combined weight of 427lbs, they are the PWB Tag Team Champions, Jake Cheng and BK London, Top Draw!

Following the moment of complete silence the beginning chords of "The Emperor's Soundtrack" by Lupe Fiasco sounds through the speakers and the crowd goes absolutely nuts for Top Draw. As the heavy bass shortly follows and the melodic flow of Lupe Fiasco proceeds, both Jake Cheng and BK London make their way through the curtain onto the top of the stage to a pop of a bigger magnitude. They play towards the crowd, hyping them up on opposite side of the stage before meeting back at the center and making their way down the ramp. They slap the hands of the crowd who are lucky enough to get seats by the ramp before stopping at the mouth of the stage. There BK does his signature 'BK pose' while Jake does his 'Jake pose', and the pyros shoot up behind them back on the stage. The pair enters the ring and hops up on the opposite turnbuckles, playing more towards the crowd as the cameras flash all around the arena. They hop down from the turnbuckle and walk to their corner of the ring as the bell sounds for the match to begin.

The bell sounds for this match to begin, and it appears to be the former World Heavyweight Champion and the former International Champion going head to head at the start of this match. It starts with a rather aggressive collar elbow tie up, in which Starkweather starts off by wrenching the arm of BK before driving the point of his elbow into it. BK screams out in pain as Starkweather continues to pound away at BK's arm, but BK eventually frees himself after flipping forward and taking for Starkweather with a Fireman's Carry. The pari quickly spring up to their feet simultaneously, and get into their fighting pose before walking around the ring and stretching out their muscles. The lock up in the center of the ring again, but it is BK this time who manages to lock on a sideheadlock before transitioning into a rear hammerlock. Starkweather looks for a way out, and eventually grabs the back of BK's head before taking him over his shoulder in a snapmare takedown. BK rises up, and wastes no time stepping out of the way as he sees Starkweather coming at him with a high knee lift. Evading the manuever, BK looks to capitalize with a German Suplex but Starkweather blocks it and makes the standing switch to deliver a German Suplex of his own. He bridges it for the first pin in this match as RAF slides on over to make the count.

ONE
.
.
TWO
.
.
T-KICK OUT

BK manages to manuever himself out of the pin, still holding the back of his neck, and Starkweather picks him up by his head a few moments later before blasting him with a stiff forearm to the jaw. The forearm sends BK staggering backwards into the ropes, and now Starkweather delivers a huge knife edge chop across his chest. BK clutches his chest in insurmountable pain before being thrown towards the opposite side of the ring with an irish whip. Starkweather bends over, possibly looking for a Back Body Drop, but BK manages to pull Starkweather's head between his legs and go for a Tiger Driver. He manages to hook one arm, but Starkweather drops down to one knee to block the move which results in a heavy set of forearms to the upperback of Starkweather. A couple of knees follow the hefty forearms and now BK pushes Starkweather into his own corner where he drives the point of his elbow into his throat. BK makes the tag to his partner Jake before pulling Starkweather out of the corner and delivering a scoop slam right by the apron. Jake launches himself over the top rope and delivers a huge leg drop right to his throat before covering him.

ONE
.
.
TWO
.
KICK OUT!

[Alicia "Atomic" Kitsune]

Stark manages to get his shoulder up a short time after two and now Jake picks up his opponent and delivers some forearms to his face before a huge European Uppercut into the ropes. Jake looks to whip Starkweather off the ropes, but Stark manages to counter it and send the former Three time Light Heavyweight Champion into the ropes where he is met with a knee to the back by Chance. Jake feels the slight pain in his back and he turns his attention to the World Champion and makes his first mistake of the match. Jake turns his focus back to the match and his head is nearly sent flying into the first row with a huge Falling Pendulum Clothesline. The back of Jake's neck bounces off the mat and Stark smiles sinisterly before picking up his opponent and slapping Chance across his chest to make the tag. Chance simply stares at Starkweather for a moment before stepping over the top rope and into the ring. Stark holds up Jake so the champion can get a clear shot of his abdomen, and Chance takes it with a hefty kick to ribs. Jake rolls on the mat in pain as the huge 6'8" behemoth advances toward him.

He picks up Jake with ease before simply tossing him into the corner. Jake's neck lands rough on the top turnbuckle and now he slumps down into the bottom turnbuckle, which positions him for a facewash by Chance. Chance bounces off the ropes to possible put more oomf in his predetermined attack, but BK pulls down the bottom rope sending Chance flipping backwards to the outsdie to a huge pop from the crowd. The referee begins to check on Jake inside the ring, as he holds his neck as BK stalks Chance from the apron. Chance manages to get to a vertical base, and BK jumps off the apron and to his dismay jumps right into the big man's arms. Chance backs up a bit before ramming the spine of the former World Champion right into the ring post. The fans in the front row cringe a bit as BK drops to the ground like a sack of bricks, laying motionless and leaving his partner in the ring to fend for himself alone. Chance hops back on the apron and steps over the top rope, and manages to get one over. Jake quickly musters up enough strength to rise up and he looks to dropkick the ACW Champ, but Chance simply swats him away like a fly. Jake has another hard fall and he begins to crawl towards the ropes, to help him get up and Chance advances toward him before grabbing him by the throat and tossing him across the ring into his corner.

Chance begins to distract the referee, starting up an argument, while Stark latches in what he dubs the Interim Involuntary Suspension on Jake. Starkweather releases Jake from his clutches and Jake lands face first flat on the mat. Taking his time to walk over there, a smile comes over the face of Chance. Chance picks up Jake and whips him hard across the ring into the opposite corner, while Umeko is on the outside shouting out orders which begins to get on the nerves of Starkweather. Chance slaps his knee as he watches his advesary in the corner, and runs at him full speed - looking for a big boot. Jake manages to dive out the way at the last second and Chance gets his foot trapped on the top turnbuckle. Wasting no time, Jake delivers a huge dropkick to the free leg of Chance. Chance buckles and falls on his ass to a huge amount of cheers from the crowd. The World Champ attempts to get up again but Jake takes him down with another dropkick to his knee, which brings TigerVII down to one knee. Jake follows up with his Akio Kick to the back of his temple. Chance is down temporarily, and this gives Jake a chance to crawl to his corner - only to realize no one is there. BK looks to be showing only little signs of life on the outside, and Jake realizes he has to go through this on his own now. Starkweather reaches over the top rope and manages to slap the upperback of Chance to tag himself in the ring to further decimate Jake.

Starkweather runs up to Jake before viciously kneeing him in the abdomen and delivering a huge Double Arm Suplex before following up with a cover.

ONE
.
.
TWO
.
.
TH-KICK OUT

Starkweather picks up Jake again and begins sending him into the corner with some stiff lightning quick kicks to his body before placing him in a Tree of Woe. He backs up and looks back at Chance for a short second before looking back at Jake and charges at him for the Basement Dropkick but Jake pulls himself up. Starkweather lands groin first on the ring post, which can't be good at all and now Jake ascends to the top rope and turns around. He appears to be looking for his You're A Hero, but Umeko interjects herself and pulls Starkweather out of the ring. Umeko helps Starkweather up to a vertical base while Jake is still on the top rope, and Jake looks down at the two with a smile of his own. He dives off the top rope, looking to take out the pair - but Starkweather pushes Umeko out of the way at the last second and takes the entire crossbody from Jake. Chance can no longer watch from the apron, and he steps in the ring absolutely wide-eyed, staring at Starkweather. As this happens, BK London manages to slide in the ring slowly before climbing to his feet - still holding his back. BK slaps his knee and as Chance turns aorund, BK delivers a huge Shades of Michaels to the big man - but it doesn't seem to take him off his feet.

Chance manages to maintain his balance, and even BK London is surprised by this. He backs up and looks for another Shades of Michaels but Chance grabs his ankle. He quickly throws down BK's leg and looks for his Ka-Li-Ma but Jake cuts him off with a chop block to the injured knee of Chance. Chance buckles down to the mat and soon enough both members of Top Draw bring him totally down with a dropkick to both sides of his head. The big man is down and now BK picks him up and delivers an Atomic Drop to the champion. Jake looks to bounce off the ropes to capitalize with a Scissors Kick but Starkweather manages to grab his leg so he falls flat on his face, before rolling back into the ring. BK looks to cut Starkweather off with a clothesline, but Starkweather manages to duck under and send BK through the ropes with a Jumping Enziguri. Jake rises up to his feet and charges toward Starkweather with a Bulldog, but Starkweather holds Jake up in the air before manuevering him into his Frontal Lobotomy. Stark rolls over to the side in a pinning predicament and the result is strictly academic.

ONE
.
.
TWO
.
.
THREE

Phillip: And the winner of this match, the team of Chance Emmerson and Starkweather!

"Descending" by Lamb of God sounds through the speakers and a sea of boos meet the current ACW Champion and Starkweather as they stand in the ring over the fallen Jake. BK rolls in to attend to his partner and rises up when he sees the champion advancing towards them. Chance and BK engage in a brief staredown before Umeko orders him to leave the ring along with Stark, but they come to find out Starkweather has already left. BK returns back to helping up his partner after a very disappointing tag team match, but history has told us that Top Draw may be down...but they're never out.

Meltdown is over, but things just keep getting more complicated.

Which tag titles, and tag team, are the “best”?

Can Rattlesnake win his toughest battle yet – against himself?

What are Umeko and Starkweather planning for the rest of the Senatorial Stable?

And how long can they expect even a one-eyed tiger to be blind?

Warfare’s going to be a good one…

Fade to Black.

End of Show.

[Jack Jefferson]

Short but very sweet, good work to all who contributed!

[thedocter]

Great show everyone

[BK London]

ACW is getting complicated as a whole.

>_<

Great show though.

[Jonny Spade]

Good show everyone.