Thursday Night Meltdown September 20th 2007

[BK London]

Match 3: Rattlesnake vs Fallen Souls (Credit: BK)

You thought this match would be a long tiring contest between Rattlesnake and FSX huh? A match which tested their strength, endurance, and all that good stuff? Well you know what? Rattlesnake managed to make it to the ring, but apparently Fallen Souls was nowhere to be found. NO WHERE. He has until the 10 count to come to the ring before he forfeits his match.

ONE
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TWO
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THREE
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FOUR
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FIVE
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SIX
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SEVEN
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EIGHT
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NINE
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TEN!

And with that the bell rings, and Rattlesnake is announced as the winner in the easiest win of his career.

[BK London]

Segment: Head Games? Credit: Jay Zero

The scene opens up to a very darkened hallway. Slowly, we become closer, and closer to what is assumed to be a locker room. The slow zoom in eventually leads us to our destination point, panning up to see a “Yoko Satoshi” name plate on the door. A hand comes in view of the cameras panorama and all we see is a single item placed in front of the door.

[/center]

Hairspray.

Attached to it is a yellow sticky note. The note says:

“Dear Miss Satoshi. It’s a real shame how close you’ve become to losing that streak of yours not once, but on two separate occasions. You’ve lucked out too many times Yoko……Monday, three’s the charm. ”

We hear the footsteps of Jay Zero slowly fade into the distance as the camera remains on that one black bottle of hairspray with a nice picture of Jay Zero on the label. Can this be Jay’s way of playing some “head” games with his opponent in the semi finals for the Emperor of the Ring?

The screen fades out.[/center]

End[/I]

[BK London]

Paid Advertisement: “Introducing: C.L.I.T.” Credit: T-Kiss

[We are in between matches and fans are preparing themselves for another onslaught of fast food, video game and movie commercials. As millions begin to turn away from the TV as they air, they are instantly drawn back within a matter of moments as they are tricked into believing Meltdown is back on the air. Unknown to them, this is not part of the show, but rather an advertising spot that has been purchased by this man in order to push his agenda. On their screens is an image of a middle aged, balding man who is now speaking to the masses about Alpha Championship Wrestling - and it’s “big” problem.]

Seymour McFadden: Hello, my name is Seymour McFadden and I have purchased air time tonight to share an important message with you all. As a fan of Alpha Championship Wrestling, I have watched on for the past year as a shocked and very disappointed bystander. Due to vulgarness and violence, I no longer am able to watch ACW with my children and I lay the blame on only one man ...

THUNDERKISS

Seymour McFadden: I have had it up to here with the filth Thunderkiss brings to the airwaves each and every week! I will no longer support a show that sits by idly while he corrupts our children, and I ask you to do the same. That is why I have created the following organization ...

Citizens
Lobbying
Intelligently against
Thunderkiss

Seymour McFadden: Together, I am sure we can make Alpha Championship Wrestling the way it should be - Thunderkiss free. This will not be an easy task and that’s why I ask for your help tonight. Write to every advertiser. Write to the Chairman of Alpha Championship Wrestling - Gingerdude. Even write to the FCC. Together we can make a difference. Our children have the right to grow up in a world without being exposed to the “Thundervibe 5000” or having to hear the term “crackerjack” being tossed around at their school’s playground. Let’s not fail them.

“Together we CAN”

“Together we WILL”

[FADE][/center]

[BK London]

Segment: Extremities (Credit: Hunter)

As the scene slowly fades in, we find ourselves staring at...a button. Knowing full well that such an object will not hold one's attention for long, the camera slowly zooms out, revealing that this button is on a jacket being worn by one Andrew Hunter. At first, however, it is difficult to make him out. After all, the fans do not often see him wearing a well made suit, at least not since the early days of the Senatorial Stable. His hair is also up in a pony tail, which adds to the somewhat strange mystique. He holds a briefcase in his right hand (not much of a change in that department), and he is carefully adjusting his tie. After a brief moment, he pushes open the door before him, and finds himself in the semi-darkness of Chairman Gingerdude's office. The chairman looks up at Hunter and groans, adding irritably:

Ginger: Don't you knock?

Hunter: Yes. But the LAW...does NOT.

Ginger sighs, dropping his pencil as Hunter plops his briefcase onto his desk.

Ginger: What on earth are you talking about?

Hunter: I'm filing a class action lawsuit against one of your employees, and as such, my lawyers suggested I make it known to you so that you may deal with him as you see fit.

Ginger: ...same question.

It is now Hunter's turn to sigh.

Hunter: Oh Ginger, how you disappoint me. You know full well who I am suing and for what.

Ginger: No. I don't. I really don't.

Hunter: ...well then, I suppose it's my duty to inform you, for the good---

Ginger: Get on with it, I have other things to do.

Hunter: Well, in my match last week with Jay Zero, I CLEARLY kicked out, but the goddamn referee said I was pinned. It was likely a case of anti-semitism, but I needn't get into that now; that's what the lawsuit is for.

Ginger: ...you're suing because you got pinned?

Hunter: Wrongfully pinned. I kicked out and would have won that match if it weren't for that damned referee.

Ginger: If Scooby Doo had a lawyer...

Hunter: What was that?

Ginger: Nothing.

Hunter: Be careful, Ginger, I have an entire team of Ivy League Jewish lawyers on my side.

Ginger: And they think you're right?

Hunter: No. They think I can win.

Ginger: Which, I suppose, is more important?

Hunter: Naturally.

Ginger: ...this is ridiculous.

Hunter: Maybe so. But look on the bright side, if you properly handle the situation yourself, then you won't lose any money. Just an employee.

Ginger: You want me to FIRE him?

Hunter: ...well, I was thinking something moreso around the lines of tar and feather---

Ginger: This is absurd!

Hunter: I wouldn't say that if---

Ginger: Get out, Hunter!

Hunter: Well, here's my lawyers' phone number, in the event---

Ginger: OUT!

Hunter throws a business card on the desk, and then quickly shuts his briefcase and runs out of the room. Ginger watches the door slam shut and slowly shakes his head, muttering something like, "fucking Britney Spears wannabe." He then reclaims his seat, and once again begins to write away at his desk.

Fade Out

[BK London]

Segment: “Thunderstorm Watch!” Credit: T-Kiss

[10 minutes ago, Anna Sommers grabbed Thunderkiss by his arm and literally yanked him out of his locker room telling him that Gingerdude IMMEDIATELY required his presence in his office. Knowing Anna’s no nonsense attitude, he came to the conclusion that this certainly must be a serious situation and thus didn’t take the matter lightly. He almost collided into three different staff members as he sprinted to get here but he has finally arrived. As he comes barreling into Ginger’s room like a tornado, he comes to a complete halt as he looks at the Chairman who looks quite the opposite from a man dealing with a serious issue.]

Thunderkiss: What’s the emergency? Anna made it sound like you were having a heart attack.

Chairman Gingerdude: Heh, no. In any event, I’m glad you rushed here so quickly to check on me.

Thunderkiss: Don’t kid yourself. I only ran here to see you die if it was in fact the later.

[The Chairman is about ready to explode his anger upon Thunderkiss for that remark but pauses for a moment to collect himself. In just a few seconds, he’ll be asking for the man’s help and it would be unwise to display any sing of displeasure towards him. Swallowing hard, Ginger ignores TK’s comment and continues on with the conversation as TK sits down.]

Chairman Gingerdude: *Ahem* Anyway, by now I’m sure you are aware what happened to me on Warfare...

Thunderkiss *laughing*: Hell yeah Gingersnap! How could I have missed it? You got your ass kicked!

Chairman Gingerdude: I’m glad that amused you.

Thunderkiss: I watched the replay like 20 times on my TiVo. I record the shows, you know.

Chairman Gingerdude: If I could be serious for a moment.

Thunderkiss: What’s stopping you boss?

Chairman Gingerdude: You.

Thunderkiss: Point taken. Continue.

Chairman Gingerdude: Laureano made a complete ass out of me. I was gracious enough to give that “has been” a second chance and he has the gall to bite the hand the feeds? I don’t think so. There will be a repercussion for his backstabbing .... a repercussions named THUNDERKISS.

Thunderkiss: I like the sound of that.

Chairman Gingerdude: I thought you would.

Thunderkiss: However, I know you wouldn’t be stupid enough to drag me in here without any kind of incentive so cut right to the part where you offer me something for making life hell for Laureano.

Chairman Gingerdude: There will be no more running or ignoring Thunderkiss.

[Gingerdude pulls his desk drawer open and pulls out two large packets and tosses them at Thunderkiss. As soon as they land in his hands, TK’s eyes begin to examine them.]

Chairman Gingerdude: You hold in your hands two “no strings attached” contracts for matches against BOTH Victor and Alicia. Two former World Champions just waiting to be broken. You scratch my back, I scratch yours.

Thunderkiss: Sounds like fun. When do you want it done?

Chairman Gingerdude: As soon as possible.

[Thunderkiss rises up from his chair and begins to exit the room. He doesn’t say his answer aloud - he doesn’t need to. His actions and enthusiasm are enough for the Chairman.]

Thunderkiss: Hah, you’re actually not a bad guy after all Gingersnap.

Chairman Gingerdude: I try.

[Before making it out the door, Thunderkiss stops dead in his tracks.]

Thunderkiss: Oh, what should I do with AK? Obviously she wont just stand by idly, you know.

Chairman Gingerdude: Do whatever you wish with her.

Thunderkiss: Oh believe me, I have a few things in mind .... heheh..

[Thunderkiss’ tongue slides between his lips a few time as his mind construes images of Alicia shackled in front of him wearing nothing but torn bra and panties...

Her eyes wide open in fear.
Her body trembling in the pain.
Her silky smooth skin bruised and bloodied.
Her mouth forced open with tape.

He brings his hand down to his swollen crotch and begins to gyrates his hips as he simulates the visions going on in his mind. Watching this ordeal firsthand, Gingerdude is relieved to finally watch him leave. As soon as he does, he grabs a can of Lysol and begins to spray the chair TK was just sitting in.]

Chairman Gingerdude: WHAT - A - FREAK!

[FADE]

[BK London]

Segment: Retro Segment #97 (Credit: Yoko Sarin)

March 9th, 2006
Okinawa, Japan
Airport Passenger Waiting Area

Behind two inconspicuous newspapers, Sarin and Yoko are scouting for their target. The socalled “Fancy Dan.”

Yoko: Will you please stop with the nonsense talk about your imaginary old lady friend?

Sarin: She isn’t imaginary, she gave me my fan. Remember?

Yoko: I remember you shoplifting a fan from an antique dealer, yes.

Sarin: I did not!

Yoko: Why would she be so vague and not just tell you the answer?

Sarin: Because…I don’t know, maybe she’s crazy.

Yoko: And you want to listen to her. What does “The danger is near, not far” even mean? Stanton is in Okinawa? Fancy Dan can still take us to him.

Sarin: I think it means we’re grasping at straws when it’s right under our nose. I don’t think it’s him. There are just so many levels to this. Costumed thugs, the Idolizer, the Legion, the Yakuza-

Yoko: And then Stanton, the top of the ladder. The Engineer.

Sarin: Why would he use an alias? You told me how full of himself he is.

Yoko: You got me there…

Sarin: If he were screwing around with us, he’d want us to know it was him, I think.

Yoko: I don’t know…

Sarin: Let’s just get up, go home, and refocus.

Yoko: We can’t, it’s our only lead.

Sarin: We’ll find another.

Yoko: But-

Sarin sighs.

Sarin: If we go home, right now, I’ll do that special thing you love me to do.

Yoko: …What thing?

Sarin: You know what thing.

Yoko: You mean when you lic-

Sarin puts her hand on Yoko’s leg.

Sarin: Yes.

It is a hard decision for Yoko.

But then there he is, looking around and holding a bouquet of roses.

Yoko: I see Fancy Dan. Showtime.

She starts to get up, but Sarin keeps a firm grip on her leg.

Sarin: We can’t, it’s the wrong path!

Yoko: But he’s right there!

Sarin: Do you trust me?

Yoko: Huh?

Sarin: You love me, you make love to me, but do you trust me? Do you trust my judgement?

Yoko: Of course, but-

Sarin: Then trust me.

She lets go of Yoko’s leg and they sit there in silence. Then Yoko stands.

Yoko: Come on, let’s go home.

Sarin smiles and stands up with her. They walk away, leaving Fancy Dan wondering where his beautiful date is.

Sarin: I knew you’d make the right decision.

Yoko: Are you still going to l-

Sarin: Absolutely. For as long as you want me to.

Yoko nearly trips over her own feet at that answer.

To Be Continued…

[BK London]

Segment: The Secret (Credit: Jake Cheng and Zero)

Jake’s locker room. Stan is pacing back and forth. Jake is not.

Stan: I’m freaking out Jake, I need something or I get fired and we get nothing.

Jake: I know, I’ve been...

Stan: What about an allergy? Or I say you used to be addicted to a drug.

Jake: Stan, we shou...

Stan: Or your family history. Or steroids. Or your sexuality.

Jake: My sexual orientation stays where it is. The woman wouldn’t be happy if someone that wasn’t me said I was gay on TV.

Stan: Then how about that you had a fake injury?

Jake: NO!

Stan: Oh?

Jake: Bad idea. I have an idea that I will say if you stop panicking and spewing out stupid ideas.

Stan: Ok.

Jake: Say something like but don’t mention injury, because I have had a broken left leg before, that’s why I tend to favor my right foot for kicking.

Stan: Ok, that one sounds good.

Jake: Great.

Shaking hands, the camera starts to move away from the apparently still working duo. But it’s not a fade out, its more of a zoom out. The camera keeps backing up, out of the locker room, through a small crack in the door. There kneels Zero, looking through the crack at his cameraman and his enemy.

Zero: Heh....never bite the feeding hand, Stan.... [/color]

Zero walks away from the locker room just in time, Stan opens the door slightly and pokes his head out. Finding nothing, he shuts the door to keep intruders away. To bad its too late.

Fade Out.

[BK London]

Phase One is Complete...[/size]

What will come next?

Things will get worse before they get better.

The wait has been long enough.

But the wait must continue.

For now...

Fade out

[BK London]

..::ACW::.. JAKE CHENG VS. ALICIA KITSUNE ..::MELTDOWN::..

-* Tale of the Tape, brought to you by The ACW ShopZONE! LIFE SIZED AK WALL POSTERS NOW AVAILABLE – It’s like having the real thing in your bedroom! *-

Jake Cheng
Age: 23
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 200 lbs.
Hometown: Hong Kong, China

Alicia Kitsune
Age: A woman never tells
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 135 lbs.
Hometown: London, UK

“I'm a Bomb” by Natasha Bedingfield hits the sound system and the fans leap to their feet to show AK their love and support. Looking as elegant as ever, she comes to the ring and shows the love back as she slaps their hands on the way down to the ring. Making sure that everyone gets their money’s worth tonight, AK stands in the ring and does an extra long pose for the cameras - a pose that comes to an end as ...

“4 Words (To Choke Upon)” by Bullet For My Valentine hits the sound system, riling up the fans. They send their boos towards Jake Cheng, who is making his way out from the entranceway down the ramp. He brushes them off as if they didn’t exist and then hops over the top rope into the ring where he raises both arms in the air as a show of protest toward these fans.

~!~DING,DING,DING~!~

MATCH START: Cheng and AK lock up in the middle of the ring and together they grapple to the ropes. The ref asks for a clean break but Cheng isn’t going to give it to AK as he nails her in the mid-section with a knee as he backs up. The ref admonishes Cheng but Jake wont have any of it as he begins to lower some shots into AK’s head. There is a lot of animosity in Cheng’s actions tonight as he is obviously still upset at his match this past Monday on Warfare. Cheng grabs AK by her arm and goes to slingshot her into the ropes, but AK grabs the bottom rope with her free arm and uses all the momentum she can muster to send Jake flying in the opposite direction! Cheng goes spilling through the 3rd and 2nd ropes to the floor below! Cheng lands hard but his impact is softened by the padded floor. He quickly leaps up and reaches into the ring and trips AK down to her back and pulls her out of the ring! The action has spilled out on the floor

MATCH MIDPOINT: AK leaps up for a Gamengiri but measures wrong as Cheng is able to easily side step. He then leg sweeps AK’s hands causing her to immediately fall onto her head! Cheng hits the ropes and combos with a baseball slide that catches AK right in the back of her skull! The fans look on in concern as a dazed Kistune and whips her into the corner where he runs in and nails her with a big time jumping knee lift! AK staggers out of the corner and falls face first to the mat much to the delight of Cheng! He leaps down and covers but only gets a two count! Determined, he pulls himself back up and sets up for a Flash Kick! AK, woozy and in pain, pulls herself up and quickly looks around for Jake. She just catches him launching the flash kick and is able to duck enough of it to avoid a KO shot. In any event, AK goes down once again and Cheng with another pin attempt! He gets another two count and rolls off of Alicia frustrated to the tenth power!

MATCH ENDING: Continued frustration is the theme of the last moments of this match for Jake Cheng! To keep AK down, he brings out the big gun - the MANDATE OF HEAVEN! As he lifts AK up onto the top turnbuckle, Cheng gets his foot caught up in the 2nd rope, allowing AK the time she needs to send Cheng flying back down! He hits hard onto his back and gets the wind instantly knocked out of him. Alicia smartly rises up to the third rope and leaps off with a GROUND ZERO! Whatever air Cheng had left in his lungs now escapes him as AK drives her body into his chest cavity! Reaching for his leg, Alicia makes the pin!

ONE!

TWO!!

THREE!!!

METLDOWN WINNER: ALICIA KITSUNE!

“Fast” Eddie Edison: What another terrific performance by Alicia! She hung in there and just waited for the perfect moment to counter a mistake by Cheng to score the victory!

Maxwell McNally: They say football is a game of inches. I say wrestling is a game of seconds. Ponder that for a moment folks as we take a short break. Meltdown will be back in a moment.

[BK London]

Segment: Not Another Interview
(Credit: Senator)

As the show returns, Steve Phillips is walking on the way to the ring, and as we all know, this is generally the sort of time that people like to intercept and bother him...people like Kevin "The Scoop" Anderson, who tries to keep pace with Phillips, the camera following with difficulty.

Anderson: Hey, do you have a moment?

The Senator: Decidedly, no.

Anderson: But, but, I need this inter...

Senator: Heard that a million times, buzz off, no comment.

Anderson: But people are wondering about how you got out of that hospital illegally, with Rena posing as a nurse, and how that security guard got knocked out!

Senator: Go away.

Anderson: Chairman Gingerdude comissioned me to be an intervi...

Senator: Gingerdude is a fool.

Anderson: And may I ask why you would say such a thing about...

Senator: You are a blithering idiot.

Anderson: Come on, I need to get this interview done!

Senator: You remind me of a pesky mosquito, and if you would prefer not being squashed into a little bloody pulp, I would fall back, and tell the camera to cut out.

Anderson: But, isn't that the sort of deal that could get you arrested for the assault and battery of that guard?

Senator: No, but it will result in your own trip to the hospital if you continue to refuse to SHUT UP.

Anderson: Thanks for not giving me an interview here...I'm sure this'll reflect well back with your consituents...

The Senator suddenly comes to an abrupt stop, waving a menacing finger in the hapless interviewer's face.

Senator: What WILL reflect well is if I show you what a majority of Americans think of media types who continualy harrass people who actually go out, put their lives on the line, and make their living off being bloodsucking leeches. And you can better belive that I am telling nothing but the cold, hard truth here.

Anderson finally closes his mouth, and allows the Senator to walk back off towards the entranceway, as he himself turns back to the camera.

Anderson: Umm...this is Kevin "The Scoop" Anderson, with the latest news...back to you, Maxwell, Eddie.

Fade Out

[BK London]

OTA Segment: “Thunderkiss: The End. Acts 7 (cont.) & 8" Credit: T-Kiss

Last Chapter Recap: Arriving at the hospital to check upon his Godson’s condition, Thunderkiss unexpectedly ran into former friend Dan White. White was less than welcoming towards TK as he still holds a major grudge against him concerning Zero’s death. We learned that TK got Zero and himself tanked up and then went motorcycling many years ago, and it was this combination that proved lethal for Zero. Trying to patch up the past, both TK and XS3 were unsuccessful as White turned his back on their offers. Meanwhile, to avenge Cory, Thunderkiss has challenged Magog to a match at the November PPV, properly named “Kingdom Come”. Magog has accepted and a press conference has been called to order ...

...

..

.

Act 7 (Continued)

As Rena takes a step back, a sea of reporters all take many steps forward in an effort to throw their questions at the two combatants. In life, the vocal ones always get the attention and the same can be said for those in the media. The reporter with the loudest voice in the room directs his question toward Thunderkiss and gets the nod by the event coordinator to continue.

Reporter: Thunderkiss, can you please update us on the condition of Cory Irvine?

Thunderkiss: Yeah, I was talking to Matt today and the good news is that many of Cory’s doctors believe that long term, Cory will pull through. However, the bad news is that we still don’t know the extent of his injuries in regards to his brain. Its going to take a lot of time and a lot of patience and I pray that the Irvine family finds both during this trying time.

As soon as TK finishes his statement, Magog decides to dabble in the mind games department and drops the bait.

[glow=yellow,2,300]Magog *yelling*: Pull the plug! [/glow]

Thunderkiss: You stupid mother FUC-

Thunderkiss lunges at Magog but is quickly contained by swarming security. Rena looks perturbed at TK’s actions and leaps up off her seat in an effort to restore order to her press conference. Meanwhile, pleased at getting under TK’s skin, Magog looks over at Laureano and chuckles. It takes a minute for things to settle down well enough for the conference to continue.

Reporter: Magog, what is the reasoning behind naming the PPV “Kingdom Come”?

[glow=yellow,2,300]Magog: It has a nice ring to it, don’t you think? It pretty much sums up my entire career for since day one I have held the fate of every opponent in my hands as if I was their creator. In just a few weeks, Thunderkiss will experience this first hand as the kingdom of hell will indeed be coming for him after my WILL be done![/glow]

Thunderkiss: *Snort*

Magog snaps his head at Thunderkiss who cannot contain his laughter. Doing his best to hold back his giggles, he is able to get the following out.

Thunderkiss: Seriously, this guy has the nerve to call ME an attention whore? *in mimicking tone* my will be done! What a fruitcake!

Now it is Magog who shoots out of his chair. He makes a beeline toward Thunderkiss but is cut off by the security team who are obviously making their paycheck today. As Magog returns to his seat, Thunderkiss blurts out the following insult during the commotion.

Thunderkiss: It’s no surprise you have a big mouth, considering your size.

This of course starts off another melee. Rena looks as if she is about ready to explode due to having her precious money making conference blow up in her face. Finally noticing Rena’s displeasure, TK decides now would be the perfect time to drop the bombshell in an effort to spite her.

Thunderkiss: So lets see if you can back it up. At Kingdom Come, I propose that our match be a NO HOLDS BARRED match!

And with that, the room grows quiet. Just a few moments ago, it was as if World War 4 had broken out in the room and now you can virtually hear a pin drop. Magog takes in a deep breath as he contemplates TK’s new stipulation.

Thunderkiss: What’s a matter big guy? You’ve already said I’ll join your long list of victims so what are you afraid of? I’m proposing legalized murder for you! What more could the “great” Magog ask for?!

[glow=yellow,2,300]Magog: So be it. Its your funeral, Thunderkiss. But if your intentions are to make your end come more quickly, think again. I am going to have much fun peeling the skin from your body, so much so that I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.[/glow]

Thunderkiss: Not even a big penis you needle dick?

[glow=yellow,2,300]Magog: ARGH![/glow]

Magog charges again. This time it takes the combined effort of every available security guard to keep him away from Thunderkiss who has now stolen the show. It as if it was 2007 again. This certainly is a Deja Vu moment for Rena and that doesn’t sit well with her - not at all.

Chairman Matheson: Dammit, that’s enough!

Thunderkiss *laughing*: Well that’s what Rena told me!

Chairman Matheson: That’s IT! I want Thunderkiss escorted out of here! I warned you right away to control yourself and the repercussions of not being able to do that! You are NOT welcomed back to until the pay per view! You should thank Magog’s wishes at this match or I’d cancel this entire match!

Thunderkiss: Well it only makes sense you’d bend over backwards for the big guy, because I have no doubt you’ve bended in every other direction for him before! Hahahaah

Chairman Matheson: OUT!

Thunderkiss is grabbed by his shoulders and arms and is now being forcefully driven from the stage. Deciding to leave on his own accord, he pulls his body away from the hands that are laid upon them and warns those who had placed them there not to do it again. To his surprise, instead of coming face to face with another random security guard, he comes face to face with Laureano.

Laureano: No holds barred huh?

Thunderkiss looks disgustedly at Laureano. Looking into his eyes he can tell right away he knows his plans.

Laureano: You wouldn’t be trying anything funny, would you old man?

Thunderkiss: Good thing you figured it out for “Captain Genius” up there kid. Remember our little talk? Say’s a lot ... doesn’t it?

Thunderkiss slaps Laureano on his cheek a few times before the young hot head angerly pushes him away. Knowing full well where the line is, TK decides its best to not to cross it and leave this one be. As he leaves the room, he can’t help but feel alive once again. Its only been a few hours since TK has been “back in town” and within that short amount of time ACW has already been turned on its head. Deep inside his conscious tells him ...

“You still got it”

...and all is right within his world once again.

Act 8

It’s a day removed from the chaotic press conference from hell and TK couldn’t be happier. He hopes that perhaps he can carry a little of this happiness to his next destination, but given the circumstances that’s doubtful. Today his plans are to stop by at the hospital to check on Cory and to talk to Matt about an urgent matter. He isn’t quite sure how XS3 will take it but does expect that in the end, he will understand. As he once again enters Cory’s hospital room he sees the oh too familiar sight of his father grieving. Wishing not to startle him, he whispers -

Thunderkiss: Any news yet?

Matt Irvine: no ......

Matt hangs his head after looking into the face of his comatose son. Seeing that there never will be a good time to tell him the following, Thunderkiss steps right up to his friend and decides to let it loose as he places a hand on his shoulder.

Thunderkiss: I’m going away for a while.

Matt says nothing for a few moments as it takes a while to register. The moment it hits him, he rises from his chair and asks the following question with a look of disbelief.

Matt Irvine: You’re not running ... are you?

Thunderkiss: Of course not! I just need to get away from all ....

Thunderkiss eye’s move around the room in a circle before falling back in line with Matt’s

Thunderkiss This.

Irvine nods his head.

Thunderkiss: I need to train. Its been a long time Matt. My only chance is to refocus myself and calculate the best strategy possible for victory. I am going to need help, I can’t do this alone.

Matt Irvine: Where are you heading?

Thunderkiss: I’m going to seek the only man on Earth who can help me right now and pray he has a very bad memory.

Thunderkiss reaches into his back pocket and pulls out a plane ticket to Washington DC. He holds it up for XS3 to see.

Matt Irvine: For your sake, let’s hope he does.

[END]

CAST OF CHARACTERS (Updated after each episode):

Chairman Matheson: Now the Chairman of ACW, Rena now controls the power.

Cory Irvine: XS3's son and new number one contender for the ACW World Championship. Fights Magog at Samhain 2033 and is seriously injured.

Dan White: Currently has issues with Thunderkiss over Zero’s death. Makes an appearance at Cory’s hospital room but quickly exits after seeing Thunderkiss.

Jake Cheng: Retired. Now runs a training school in Los Angeles.

Jonny Spade: Now ACW’s premier referee, Mr. Spade likes to keep the matches clean.

Laureano: The prodigal son of AK and Latino. Currently on the ACW roster and in Magog’s stable.

Magog: Current ACW World Champion. Is undefeated and extremely powerful.

Matt Irvine (XS3): Manages his son, Cory, in ACW.

Mr. Exotica: Former number one contender for the ACW World Championship. Crippled by Magog.

Princess London: Daughter of the Legendary BK London. Current ACW Woman’s Champion.

Rattlesnake: Has long retired and is now part of the announce team.

“Rapid” Rick Edison: Son of “Fast” Eddie Edison. Has followed in his fathers footsteps.

Thunderkiss - Now 55 is the focal point of our story. Has now come out of retirement to challenge the ACW World Champion after he crippled his Godson, Cory.

Zero: Deceased. Met his end after getting loaded up with Thunderkiss and crashed his motorcycle.

[BK London]

Segment: Step Lightly (Credit: Adrian Flamingo)

As the ACW camera opens on Adrian Flamingo, he slumped up against the cold brick wall of the outside of the ACW arena outside. His hands cuffed in his lap and his eyes fixed on the parking lot full of parked cars, he paid the camera no attention. He was eliminated from the Emperor of the Ring Tournament, but it wasn’t a heartbreaker. He didn’t need a tournament win or some false crown to prove his worth in ACW. He didn’t need catchphrases or mindless lackeys or any of that other crap that others seemed to rely on. He was the future of the business, and if anyone had any doubts, all they had to do was look at his recent matches with Rattlesnake and Scott Andrews. Adrian slowly turned to face the camera as he pulled a cigarette out of his jacket pocket.

“So, I haven’t really said much since Freeman beat me last week. I mean, outside of my “interview” with the Senatorial Stable… what a waste of time that was. Whatever, matter of facts is Jason Freeman “overcame the odds”… how infantile. That’s a horribly childish way to look at life in my opinion, because a match can go either way at any time. I could wrestle fucking Jujube and get caught by a stray punch and get knocked out. I could twist a knee or sprain an ankle by simply entering the ring. Is it likely to happen? No. I’m a fucking pro, ACW, you should all know that by now. So yeah, overcoming the odds? Fuck that noise, but whatever. Congratulations Jason Freeman, I hope you make it to face Yoko so that we can watch you piss yourself like the little stooge you are.”

Adrian giggled to himself as he lit his cigarette with a small black lighter out of his jeans pocket. Fucking Newports… god, they burned like a bitch. It was like pouring rubbing alcohol on an open sore… it just blew. He didn’t care though. After all, if you’re going to kill yourself, might as well kill yourself.

“So yeah, I make news for ACW, I show the boys in the back what a real fucking wrestler does and how lucha is more than head scissors and hurricanranas, and what do I get in return? Nothing. Meanwhile, some of these guys that run around here that get the title shots, that get the big name matches, what have they done? Huh? When was the last time Jay Zero made waves? When was the last time Ricky Falcon did anything? Jonny Spade? Is he still on the roster? So yeah, ACW, what about me? I’ve done nothing but bust my ass in this company since I was signed a year ago, and I’m no better now than I was then. Do I need to fix this, ACW? Do you remember the last time I had to “fix” something? I’m sure BK London doesn’t. The wins aren’t important, ACW, the titles aren’t either. The match itself is what’s important. The adrenaline rush, the pain… it’s what makes me get up and do it all again. I’m not asking for anything that’s ridiculous, but if Thunderkiss can walk around like the jackass he is and gets to pick his matches, then so can I. I’m not asking you to empty your pockets, ACW. I’m not asking you to break your goddamn backs for me. I want to face the likes of Jake Cheng… Starkweather… Senator… Yoko. Why are you hiding your top stars from me, ACW? Are you afraid I’ll break them too?”

That was the real reason why he wanted BK London out of the picture. BK was as high as he got up the card, BK London was the glass ceiling. So, logically, the only way he could get past the ceiling would be to break it… logically. However, that’s not how it worked out in his case. Emperor of the Ring saw him face… Ricky Falcon and Jason Freeman? Bullshit. Adrian blew some smoke out of his lips as he took another long drag from his cancer stick that he swore had shards of glass in. Adrian looked out of the corner of his eye and smiled at the camera.

“What can I say? I always seem to break my toys. I wanted to break Rattlesnake and put him out of his misery, but I found a delicious bit of irony by beating him. Hey, if I can’t be the Emperor of the Ring, at least I can beat the hell out of last year’s winner. I’ve beaten the likes of Hunter, Alicia, Scott Andrews, Nick Durden, Rattlesnake, and I’ve yet to see any progression in my opponents. I’m facing the same assortments of jokers and clowns every week and I’m starting to get sick of it. Don’t make me get sick of it, ACW, I’m a desperate man and I’ve done desperate things. I’d sell my soul to the fucking devil himself to get the matches and competition I deserve. I'd go out and hurt another one of your "big names" to get what I deserve. Don't make me do it, ACW, don't make me do things I might regret.”

Adrian blew another puff of smoke into the camera as the scene faded.

[BK London]

Segment: He told me to put it towards the end of the show (Credit: Zero)

In the backstage area, we immediately open to find Stan walking down a straight hallway. Whomever cares may be thinking if Stan has thought over the ultimatum that Jay Zero gave him earlier tonight. Stan clears his throat and begins to come to a halt right outside the Entourage locker room. He snorts, clearing some mucus from his nose and opens the door. As he enters the room, he finds the eyes of Jay Zero glare up at him. Also in the room is Dan while the rest of the group to be out of sight. Jay light heartedly chuckles, allowing a smile to come upon his face. He tosses a magazine down and he stands up, meeting Stan halfway.

[/center]

Zero: So, what is it? Here to get your stuff? [/color]

Blankly, Stan stares back at Jay.

[/center]

Zero: What’s wrong Stan? Hm? Did that cold, sad realization of you not having a job just hit you? [/color]

Stan continues quiet. In the background Dan shakes his head, whilst in the foreground, Stan bites his upper lip, snorting once again.

[/center]

Zero: Well there’s your stuff over there. Hurry up and get your sorry ass out of our locker room. Oh…pfft, hah hah! Excuse me! I just caught what I said. What I meant was get your shit and your sorry ass out of MY locker room. [/color]

Jay waves him off as he turns his back to go and sit back down. He grabs the magazine he was reading earlier and resumes where he left off. But-still standing in the same exact spot, Stan begins shaking his head.

[/center]

Stan: ………No.

Jays eyes shoot back up from his article to Stan.

[/center]

Zero: Pardon? [/color]

Stan:…….No!

Zero: I don’t understand. You’re not going to leave? [/color]

Stan: Nope!

Zero: And do you mind enlightening me as to why? Or do you really just want me to physically throw you out? [/color]

Stan: I’m not leaving cause you aren’t firing me.

Zero: Heh, really? And—[/color]

Rrrrrrrring. Rrrrrrrrring.

Zero: --What makes you think that? [/color]

The loud ringing of his cell phone interrupts Jay as he breaks his concentration to look down at it.

[/center]

Zero: Waitaminute…[/color]

Stan: Jay, you’re not firing me because I got exactly what you—

Zero: Hold on! [/color]

He notices something about the call. That’s not his normal ringtone. He snatches the phone from the table and looks at the caller I.D. and once again, it’s that mysterious number. Contemplating what to do, he acts quickly.

[/center]

Zero: Dan, keep an eye on Stan, I gotta take this. [/color]

Dan salutes with his index finger as Jay looks at the phone and exits the room. Before the door closes he can see him click a button and pull it to his ear.

[/center]

[Off Camera]

Zero: Hello? [/color]

“So I see you’ve let your own ears and eyes tell the truth for you….”

Zero: *Sigh* Yup, you were right. Now just tell me, who is this? [/color]

“Now that you know the truth, you must expose him.”

Zero: Answer me. [/color]

“I’m the guy that knows too much.”

Zero: So what made you come to me? [/color]

“ Simple. You’re the one who needs saving.”

Zero: What? [/color]

“ If you listen to my instructions, you shall be a new man. You’ll succeed in all factors. You’ll be respected, you’ll be admired, and you’ll be reborn.”

Zero: And what if I don’t want to be reborn?!? [/color]

Various crew workers that walk by Jay give him odd looks.

[/center]

Zero: Just really, stop messing around with me. I got too much going on right now. Good bye. [/color]

“ I wouldn’t do that if I were you….”

Zero: Or what? [/color]

“ Or the consequences will be deadly. Trust me, once you are reborn you shall never look back upon this down hill disaster of a career you control.”

Zero: What?! Disaster!? Are you kidding me! Pft, now I know this is a joke! [/color]

“ Hang up and the monster will feast…”

Jay pauses, wondering what that could mean.

[/center]

“ If you turn your back on me now, your fate will soon take a turn for the worst. You’ve made it far already in this tournament, however if you end it now, the monster Yoko Satoshi will feast on your weakness. However, if you cooperate and do as told, you shall have the power inside you to wilt the Flower of Carnage.”

Zero: You….you’re saying that if I listen to you, then I’ll beat Yoko Satoshi? [/color]

“ Not only beat, but the legacy of Yoko’s reign will elevate you to great heights, even to the top.”

Zero: ….Like what? [/color]

“ Once you win the tournament, you’ll have it inside you to overcome the champion….Shed the blood of the sinners, and in result you shall receive gold…”

Zero: But wai—[/color]

He’s interrupted by the deep, strong, manly voice on the other end of the receiver.

[/center]

“ Monday is your last chance. You must wait for exactly the right moment, and when you know it’s time, expose all that stand in your way for what they truly are, and show who is who in matter of success. If you believe, then all is possible. Trust in me; take out the legend. ”

Zero: What about –[/color]

Click.

The man hangs up. Zero is left standing with his back against the wall outside the locker room, thinking about a bunch of different things. He then shuts his phone and goes back into the room.

[/center]

[Back on Camera]

Zero: Sorry…..my aunt called. Family thing. [/color]

Jay answers quite suspiciously as he rolls his tongue in his mouth, scraping his inner cheek. Stan then swings his body around back towards Jay.

[/center]

Stan: Okay! Like I was saying! You’re not going to fire me cause I got you a secret, and it’s a good one too!

Zero: Don’t worry, I’m not firing you. Keep the secret anyways—I already got one. [/color]

Jay walks right past Stan, obviously having much more than the lone cameraman on his mind.

[/center]

Stan: Erh, so just like that? You’re…keeping me?

Jay places his cell phone back down on the coffee table and walks over to a counter. He leans over it, resting his face in-between his arms.

[/center]

Stan: I went through so much trouble! I—I called people! I did research! I found out something he never even told me, and you’re saying you’re not even going to hear it?!?

He lifts his head up.

[/center]

Zero: Stan, trust me. I’ve witnessed the main secret tonight….And Monday, I’m going to broadcast to the world exactly what’s going to give me that title shot, once and for all. [/color]

Stan: Well….what’s that?

Zero: Heh….. [/color]

Jay begins laughing to himself, leaving Stan dazed and confused. As soon as the scene begins to fade Dan lets out a heavy sigh.

End.

[BK London]

Segment: Jaded? (Credit: Yoko / Jade)

Chuck E. Cheese’s.

A far cry from the smoke filled bar deep in the city. Tonight, Jade is perfectly on time and arrives mere moments after Yoko. They take a table.

Yoko: Chuck E. Cheese’s?

Jade: It looked like you didn’t like the other place so well.

Yoko: You read me well.

Jade: Always have.

A seductive smile from Jade.

Yoko: So what’s with the sudden interest in the rekindling of our friendship?

Jade: Yoko, I’m going to be honest with you, ok?

Yoko: You need my help with something?

Jade: No. The reason your kiss upset me so much is because…well, I liked it. I didn’t want to like it but I did. I wasn’t so ready to indulge my feelings as you were, the implications were too large. I tuned you out of my life and made it go away. Your insanity helped that a lot.

Yoko: You’re joking.

Jade: It went away…for a few months. But I wanted to come back, to tell you the truth. To tell you that I wanted you as much as you wanted me.

Yoko: A few months…so you saw-

Jade: Scarlet. Or rather, Sarin. You were dating her. I even saw you two fucking in your locker room, once. It infuriated me that you had gotten over me so quickly and I was still aching for you.

Yoko blushes.

Jade: Divine justice I guess. I blew my chance. I accepted it, I wasn’t going to break up such a happy couple. But that didn’t stop the ache I had for you. And then, it happened.

Yoko: Yeah…It happened.

Jade: That fucking whore cheated on you, after your traumatizing hospital stay. I sent a card, by the way. I didn’t sign it.

Yoko nods.

Jade: I had to confront you. Make a big reentrance into your life, tell you my feelings.

Yoko: It must have taken a lot of courage.

Jade: I want…that is, if you want…

Yoko: Jade, you were my first love…Both my first love that wasn’t a crush, and the love that made me realize I am, in fact, a lesbian. And it went so wrongly…because you weren’t honest with yourself. You never lose feelings for someone you love though. If you’re sure-

Jade: I am absolutely sure, I’ve never been more sure.

Yoko: -Then…Yes. I would love to be your girlfriend. I need to move on from Sarin.

Jade: I agree. Oh my God I’m so fucking happy, I’ve wanted this for so long!

Jade grabs Yoko’s face and kisses her very passionately, shocking her.

Jade: Sorry. That was building up for two years.

Yoko: It’s ok, I don’t mind.

Jade: Want to have sex? In the ball pit?

Yoko: I…no. I need to go really, really slow.

Jade: I didn’t even think…I’m sorry, again. Want to play Mario Kart then?

Yoko: You’re on.

End Segment.

[BK London]

Segment: Whispers from the void (Credit: Echo/AK)

The shower in Echo’s locker room was likely not meant to ever be used as a blacksmithing forge, but given the temperature in it right now, chances are one could definitely smelt some ore.

From the amount of steam billowing over the shower door, blanketing the floor and everything up to five feet above it like a low-budget remake of The Fog, it’s obvious that the water inside must be barely short of scalding, well above what most people would consider a comfortable level of heat. Whoever’s inside, though (presumably Echo), obviously doesn’t seem to care. We haven’t heard from her since her lapse into unconsciousness after Warfare’s bizarre events, though it would be obvious to any viewer that there’s no way she can’t have been affected by what she went through. As many questions as there would be running through an observer’s head, infinitely more must remain in Echo’s.

In the past few weeks, Alicia’s grown fairly accustomed to simply entering Echo’s locker room without warning, as both the forlorn newcomer and her equally enigmatic consort have made it quite clear she’s welcome anytime. Still, she hesitates slightly before pushing the door to the bathroom open, even knocking on it for good measure.

Alicia: Ayres? You’ve been in here almost thirty minutes…

There’s a brief, eerie pause, the silence broken only by the gushing of water and hissing of steam. Alicia’s about to become slightly concerned when finally, a familiar voice wafts its way up over the shower door with the rest of the steam.

Echo: ….Please don’t call me that.

It’s a start, albeit not much of one. Alicia sighs, and finds a seat on the counter next to the towel rack.

Alicia: Why not?

Echo: Because it’s not me.

Alicia: Last I checked, in the absence of anything more compelling, it is.

Echo falls silent for a few seconds, and the door shifts slightly, its translucent surface darkening, as she leans against it. When she speaks again, it’s with the same weariness we heard shortly before her abduction on Monday.

Echo: Yeah…Joachim said exactly that, too.

She sighs, heavily. It’s barely audible over the shower.

Echo: But you’re wrong. You’re both wrong. The absence of anything concrete doesn’t mean I have to take on something that isn’t mine…and it’s not. As far as I’m concerned, I don’t have a name.

Alicia: You really…you don’t even remember that?

Echo: No. The name I use on my licenses, visas, passports, and whatever the hell else is a bought pseudonym. ‘Chim got it for me.

The door shifts slightly as Echo moves away, no longer silhouetted against the smoked glass.

Echo: I didn’t get this tattoo on my stomach as part of a gimmick, Alicia; I woke up with it. It’s the first thing I remember seeing. It’s probably irrelevant, just a decoration of some sort without any meaning…but it’s real. It’s me. That’s why I hold on to it and resist anything else.

The silence, save for the steady drumming of water on the tile, is oppressively thick in the moments following Echo’s words. Alicia nods, slowly, staring at the floor from her perch, and rests her chin in a palm.

Alicia: So…that’s why you call yourself “Echo”, then?

Echo: It’s all I’ve got. Look…

She takes a deep breath.

Echo: If I dissolved under the water, right here in the middle of the shower, and got swept away with the current down the pipes and out to sea, everything I was and am would go with me. It’s not like other people, where they at least have something…a legacy, I guess, to leave behind. I’d just…cease to exist. And I can’t live with a thought like that. That’s why I’m still trying to get some answers, even though I haven’t had any success yet. I can’t just resign myself to…

Echo’s voice trails off, the last few syllables bouncing haphazardly off the tile a few times, and when she resumes it’s in an even more subdued tone that Alicia has to strain to hear.

Echo: Oblivion. I guess that’s what I’m afraid of. The void.

Water continues to pelt the glass, offering a welcome aural guard against the silence which falls after Echo’s admission. Both women are left deep in thought for several seconds, until eventually Alicia decides on a way of framing her response.

Alicia: Once, when I was enduring a period of particular melancholy, I took it into my head to read some Sartre. In the midst of being obtuse and French, he puts forward a preposition which struck a chord; “the essence of man is his existence”.

She pauses, thinking about how best to explain her point of view.

Alicia: As far as I can see, your existence has three components. The period of time which you have no memories of, the recent past, and everything which is yet to come. I know that you’ll keep searching until you find some evidence of the “real” you, and if there’s anything I can do to assist in your hunt, you only have to ask. But equally, don’t ever forget that the person you are now is just as real as anything you might dig up. I don’t care if it turns out that you’re some kind of genius who’s discovered the cure for cancer and the common cold, or if it should be that you’re a dropout who never achieved a single thing of distinction before now. What matters is that you’re here and you possess the power of self-determination; that’s all you need to be able to defy oblivion, as far as any of us are able. The choices you make from this point forward are just as integral and unique to you as that tattoo.

Alicia stretches and returns to a standing position.

Alicia: On that note, I’ll follow my own advice and choose to give you some peace before my hair autonomously styles itself into a bubble perm from all this steam. You must have one hell of a tolerance for heat.

Feeling for the door handle, Alicia opens it slightly; she hesitates, as if there’s something itching to get out of her brain. It’s an itch she simply has to “scratch”.

Alicia: Echo… before we managed to get to you in that place… did you see who was in charge of-

Echo: I’d rather not discuss those events just now.

Her tone of voice is not threatening, but as solid as ice, a stark contrast to the heated atmosphere. Alicia gets the message.

Alicia: I understand. Forget I ever mentioned it.

Alicia lets herself out, without any further comment. The sound of the shower blocks out any subtle sounds from within, but it’s a fair assumption that Echo is still a long way from finding any substantial form of relief.

Fade.