7.24.11 SNV

[primetime]

The scene opens up as we see a clear night sky. Buildings with windows lit from base to roof crowd a street as a crowd of onlookers point and stare up at some type of disturbance. A man moves along the edge of the roof, only to find a seat with his feet dangling. His head is covered by a thick hood, covering any shot at seeing who he is.

Onlooker 1: What is that?

Onlooker 2: It is some guy I think! What is he doing?!! Is he trying to commit suicide?!

Security guards and local police officers cordon off the area as Mark Rivera steps through the crowd and stares up as well.

Officer: Is he one of yours?

Rivera says nothing a moment until the person on the roof moves once more, this time choosing to position himself upon his knees, almost as if he is meditating. Shaking his head now, Rivera grimaces as he turns to the Officer..

Rivera: Yeah, he is. I knew he would be a problem but not this soon.

Officer: Who?

Rivera: I want extra security tonight.. The Machine is here.

Officer: Right away, Sir.

The officer rushes off as Sabora is shown glaring down at the growing crowd below. His face is emotionless as he makes no move what so ever. Obviously bothered, Rivera turns and head towards the arena once more… leaving the fans to eat up the unfolding drama..

Fireworks spew out from the stage area as the camera feed pans from left to right! A huge explosion rocks the crowd next as their cheers suddenly fill the air waves! As the feed switches to ringside, we see two men with headsets on, smiling at the viewer!

Gibson: Hello everybody and welcome to another exciting episode of Sunday Night Vengeance! I am Rock Gibson and this is my co-host.. “Glorious” Sidney Long. How are you doing, Sid?

Long: I am fantastic! We have a new World Champion in our presence now! The Monster of the Asylum, TITAN, has regained something very important that he lost not too long ago and put to rest some of the naysayers!

Gibson: Until another certain former champion arrived to settle a score. Tonight, we have some huge events planned for you all. I honestly can’t wait! First off all, let’s get to first order…

The lights suddenly dim down. “Right Now” by Korn begins to play. Immediately, the crowd unloads with a sea of boos and jeers!

Long: It looks like we have company! Here he comes, the new CHAMPION OF THE WORLD!! TITAN! I love this man!

Gibson: You really make me sick, Sid.

The fans continue to boo loudly and throw trash at th estage as TITAN steps into view wearing black track pants and a white tank top. The Asylum World Championship rests upon his shoulder as he stops to stare out at the crowd. He is alone this time for some reason, as he makes his way down the rampway and to the ring, where he easily hops to ringside and enters through the ropes. Fire explodes from each corner of the ring as TITAN turns to face the fans, raising the World Title into the air with one extended arm. John Walt hands him a microphone, one that TITAN rips free from his hand before shoving him to the mat hard!

Gibson: Was that necessary!! Come on!

Long: I don’t know, I probably would have done the same thing. TITAN is the very standard of professional wrestling. He owes no one an explanation for his actions.

As the fans let him have it, TITAN laughs. He then raises the microphone and begins to speak.

TITAN: Here we are. Once again, right? What did I tell you all that was going to happen? I mean, seriously? Scorpion? Viper? Bull…. Really? I mean, should thank Bull for the help out there but I won’t. If anything, Scorpion should be doing the thanking. Had Bull not saved that long haired idiot’s life, Scorpion may look a whole lot different right now. Which brings us to the present. Once again, for the second time… I am the champion of the world. In a business of hungry wolves, I AM THE ABSOLUTE BEST! NO ONE CAN BEAT ME! NO ONE!

The fans boo once again as TITAN nods and taunts them on!

TITAN: This morning, I was watching some of the… other.. Companies in the world. I have to say, you guys are pretty damn lucky to have a true champion like me. NOBODY doubts my place in the scheme of things… NOBODY. Well, except for one man. A man who I will deal with, right now. Chris Sabora, The Machine, a man who just can’t stay the FUCK out of my business…. Needs a spanking.

The fans cheer now, shaking the very foundation of the building!

TITAN: Go ahead, cheer for him! Sabora, the savior of the company! Yeah, I remember him. Hell, the entire locker room remembers him! I can promise you, there is no one in that backstage area that would rather have HIM as a champion than me. You see, unknown to you guys, this was a man who was only out for himself. YOU all looked at him like a hero. All of us… boys… knew him as a pompous jackass who served only himself! Just hearing his name makes me want to puke. I dealt with him as a champion for a YEAR! I will be damned if that will happen again. I know why he has returned. Our last battle did not end this little conflict between us. So, unlike the last recent champion, I will not run from a fight. Chris Sabora… BRING YOUR ASS OUT HERE AND FACE ME! Or, have you become the type of man who prefers to attack from behind?

The fans begin to cheer loudly as the camera focuses on the stage area.

Gibson: Well, we may be seeing a huge stand off tonight. Will the Machine return to the ring one more time?

Long: Of course he won’t! He is afraid! He would rather attack when the champion is not ready!

The lights suddenly dim down as the fans scream in approval now!

Gibson: Here he is!! THE MACHINE!!

“Bleed for me” by Saliva begins to play as fireworks spew from the stage! A figure steps through the entrance.. And the lights suddenly flick on brightly! The fans instantly begin to boo as Randy Jordan is shown laughing! He slowly make his way down to the stage area and to ringside, a large envelop is shown in his hands. Rolling under the bottom rope, Randy enters the ring as litter is tossed inside. TITAN remains in place, watching his manager.

Jordan: It seems that The Machine is busy sight seeing on the roof of the building! I don’t believe that he will be coming out tonight.

TITAN: This is the man you guys root for? He is nothing but a coward!! It seems that I have broken more than this man’s body. As a matter of fact, I might have broken-

“The Sounds of Madness” begins to play loudly as the fans stand up and cheer!! Stepping through the entrance, Chris Sabora is shown as camera’s flicker all around him! He does not hesitate at all to stop as he rushes to the ring, sliding under the bottom rope and rolling to his feet after! Barry Jordan quickly flees the ring as TITAN steps forward, ready to do battle!

Gibson: THE MACHINE IS HERE! WE MAY BE SEEING HISTORY AS WE SPEAK!

Accepting a microphone, Sabora paces the ring as the fans cheer him on!

Sabora: Hello there, Champ. Or should I call you… what was it that you referred to Scorpion as? Oh yes.. Fake champion.

TITAN: I AM NO FAKE CHAMPION! I BROKE YOU!!

Sabora: Yes, you did. You beat me when I was at my absolute worst professionally an physically. Let’s not forget what I had done to you before when I was at 100%! If you ask me, we still have a score to settle. If there is one man here that can take you, it is me. I am here to break you in half, TITAN. There can be no other way. In my hand, is a rematch clause. I made sure to have not only Kirk Kennedy sign the document but..

TITAN: KENNEDY HAS NO POWER ANYMORE! THAT DOCUMENT IS USELESS!

Sabora: You’re right. That is why I also made sure to have Rivera sign it as well. The deal was that if I did not go on disability following my injury, he would grant it. I tell you, that man only thinks about money. You should choose your friends wisely!

Jordan takes the document and looks it over. He says something to TITAN as the fans cheer on.

TITAN: FINE! You have your match.. At Scars and Stripes! I will send you back to whatever fucking fortune cookie factory you sprang out from! This time though, when I beat you, I will make sure that you never… walk again. That is, if you even can right now.

Sabora: You know, why don’t we give these fans a taste of what is to come then? Right here.. Right now! Come see how good I can walk.

TITAN nods quickly, tossing the championship and the microphone to the side! The fans wildly as Sabora prepares for battle! The tension is at an all time high!

??: WAIT JUST A MINUTE!

The feed pans to the stage area where we see Mark Rivera! Immediately, the boos return!

Rivera: There will be NO fighting tonight. If this is to be my main event at Scars and Stripes, then so be it. Neither of you will touch one another until then because if you do… you will be removed from the match entirely. Sabora, cross me and you will be let go. TITAN, consider your championship vacated if you do the same. Also, I am putting you both on forced leave. You will NOT step in the ring at all for the next show to ensure that nothing occurs to help everyone cool off. I want this little argument over once and for all. Oh, and the match will be a First Blood Match.

The fans begin to boo loudly as all of the men in the ring stare at him. The scene slowly fades to black, as Rivera heads backstage..

[primetime]

The feed switches to a replay of Retribution as Dante Holly stares at Luck from inside the ring, only to be hit from behind with a metal pipe!! The crowd screams in horror as Dave towers over him, driving the pipe into the back of his head! With each strike, Dante moves less and less until Dave is ordered to stop by Luck. Rolling into the ring, Luck lifts up Dante carefully. He stares into his face… and then removes the now bloodied mask from his head!!

Gibson: NO!!!! HIS IDENTITY IS OUT!!!

The word out echoes as Dante remains upon his knees, his face still covered but by his own blood. Luck leans in, and smiles as the fans boo loudly..

Luck: Eye for an eye… partner for a partner. Tell Oblivion, we are even now for what he did to Dave here two weeks ago. He will find his Mother right where I said she was. Unlike him, I am a man of honor! He will learn his place.. One way or another...

“One way or another” echoes as Mr. Luck then kicks Holly in the face, sending the superhero falling backwards! The fans boo loudly as the LVC turn and exit the ring, a smug look upon their faces. They head up the ramp as a sea of medical workers rush towards the ring, tending to Dante furiously and the feed cuts back to Rock Gibson at ring side.

Gibson: Ladies and gentleman, six weeks ago Dante Holly suffered a severe concussion at the hands of Mr. Luck and Big Dave after he and Oblivion defeated them in what can only be coined as a fight. We are now joined by Dante Holly live, coming to us live from the headquarters of the Devil's Due Motorclub.

The feed goes to split screen as Dante Holly is shown wearing a new mask, his head bandaged over top. He is wearing sunglasses as well to protect his eyes from the bright light.

Gibson: Dante, thank you for taking the time to do this. Firstly how are you doing?

Dante: I am doing as well as can be expected. The pain in my head is only matched by the pain in my heart as I know the world is lacking a super hero at the moment.

Gibson: I know it's early in the recovery process, but when can we expect you back in an EUW ring?

Dante: The doctor's do not know Rock, but I do. When the next threat to the nubile arises, my powers of healing will come to life and I will be able to return once more.

Gibson: At Scars and Stripes Oblivion is set to take on Mr. Luck in a match that Mark Rivera has stated will put an end to this conflict and ...

Dante: One way or another Rock, it will. Neither Oblivion nor Mr. Luck are going to walk out the same. Mr. Luck has taken a bigger bite out of his fruit by the foot than he can chew. I've stood inside Hell of a Cell against him and I much prefer the state I am in today, then having to stare across at the Big Dog again. Mr. Luck may have taken me out of commission for the foreseeable future ...

Dante Holly us cut off in mid sentence as the camera cuts off to a third screen and a smiling Mr. Luck.

Mr. Luck: Exactly, so get off of MY show because I have something to say.

The crowd boo's as Dante Holly stares at Mr. Luck.

Mr. Luck You're done Dante. You were nothing but a joke who stuck your nose into my business. I took it easy on you because I would rather watch you suffer as you realize that your retarded little dreams are never going to come true. Oblivion isn't going to receive the same treatment. I am going to relish the opportunity of ending the Hall of Fame career of Oblivion. I am going to revel in the fact that I'm going to do something that no one else has been able to do... END THE COUNTDOWN.

Oblivion, I hope you're watching what I'm going to do to your brother and his pathetic little page tonight because it's simply a warm up of what's going to occur at Scars and Stripes.

The camera cuts away from both Rock and Dante and focuses in on a snarling Mr. Luck before cutting away to the ring.

**

Gibson: Welcome back to the show. Wow, was that an opening! Anyway, as most of you know, the Asylum enjoys more matches then what is actually shown on live television. The following is a quick wrap of what took place earlier prior to taping and who came out on top!

Dark Match #1
Tag Team Match
Standard Rules
Natalie Burrows and Brandon Young vs. Body and Soul

Dark Match #1 Natalie Burrows and Brandon Young vs. Body and Soul. Burrows and Young made their debut at this show, but past dealings in previous companies left the pair with a somewhat strained relationship. Body and Soul took full advantage of this, working as a well-oiled machine and dominating the early proceedings. The crowd seemed to be behind Body and Soul, but once Burrows found herself isolated in the ring, they immediately switched and began cheering for the “Southern Belle” until she got planted by a Gunn Shot (Running Big Boot) from Travis Gunners. The match looked won, but Young broke up the pin and hit Gunners with the Reality Check (Backflip DDT), giving Burrows a chance to make the tag.

Once in, Young took the fight to Travis, making use of his speed to keep ahead of his more powerful opponent. Young’s mix of quick strikes and impact moves proved enough to put Travis on the back foot, but after missing a springboard moonsault, Brandon found himself on the receiving end of a power beat down from Body and Soul as Travis tagged in TJ. TJ scored a near fall with a big Impact Bomb (Choke Slam Powerbomb) before Burrows broke it up to keep the match alive. Following a cross body, Young managed to tag in Burrows and the two hit a double team DDT on TJ, picking up a two count. Burrows wasted no time asserting herself, wowing the fans as she took it to her opponent. After performing the Grief Cycle, she set herself up nicely for her finisher.. Closure.
Winners: Natalie Burrows and Brandon Young

• 
  

Dark Match #2
Singles Match
Standard Rules
Stephen Callaway vs. Drake Johnson

Dark Match #2 Stephen Callaway vs. Drake Johnson. A tight-fought affair with neither man dominating proceedings for any length of time. Callaway took a more technical approach, looking to wear down Johnson using submissions, whilst Johnson opted for more raw power and brawling offence instead. The two contrasting styles meant that neither man really got a proper handle on their opponent, although a big Angle Slam from Callaway left Johnson in the middle of the ring with nowhere to go when he applied the Calsmission (Tazmission), but using his strength and the support of the crowds, Johnson was able to power out, catching Callaway with the Head Buster (DDT) to leave both men down.

Both men struggled to their feet, and an exchange of strikes left Callaway struggling against the raw power of Drake’s style of wrestling. Drake hit a body slam, following up with a big splash for a close two count, before heading to the top rope for the Johnny Knocker (Flying Elbow) but this proved to be a mistake, as Callaway managed to get out of the way of the move, leaving him a chance to recover as Drake lay on the mat in pain. Callaway then pulled away, dominating Johnson with ease until he managed to finish Johnson off with the Calsi Kick!
Winner: Stephen Callaway

• 
  

Dark Match #3
Singles Match
Standard Rules
Diabolik vs. Hughes

Dark Match #3 Diabolik vs. Hughes. In a match where the crowd couldn’t decide who to boo for more, Hughes put in an impressive showing as one the Asylum’s newest talents, taking the fight to the experienced veteran, Diabolik, and coming close to victory several times after using sheer brute force (and a few chokeslams, for good measure). Diabolik took all of Hughes’ offence and avoided a running splash in the corner, to hit a bulldog out of nowhere and reverse the tide. Diabolik then got into his stride, launching a lot of head-based strikes on Hughes, wearing down the giant, before planting him with a DDT.

Hughes, however, would not be put down so easily, and even a piledriver didn’t pick up the three count, leaving Diabolik wondering what it would take to pick up the win. Diabolik was caught out by a running shoulder block, the sheer speed of the move surprising the veteran, finding himself floored by the attack, with Hughes looming over him. Hughes then pulled Diabolik up and dragged him towards the ropes, looking to chokeslam him out of the ring, but Diabolik used the ropes to send both men crashing to the outside instead. The fight continued on from there, despite the count from the referee until both men were counted out.
Winner: Double DQ

[primetime]

Gibson: And now we’re heading backstage, where Jack Rodgers is standing by with Jason Ambrose.

Long: Ambrose? Ugh, I hate that kid!

Gibson: Really? I thought you loved him back in his Empire days?

Long: I have no time for backstabbers, and that’s what he is!

The feed cuts to the backstage; Jace is dressed in his wrestling gear, stood in a corridor with interviewer Jack Rodgers.

Rodgers: Jace, last week you waited for Warrior backstage and brutally attacked him with a lead pipe. What’s going on? That’s not the cool, collected Jason Ambrose that we here in the Asylum are used to.

Jace: What’s going on? What’s… Going on? Rodgers, where have you been for the past few months? Ever since Back 2 Roots, Warrior has been making my life a living Hell. He attacked my girlfriend for no reason other than to hurt her, he’s been popping up all over the place and attacking me, or getting his lackeys to do the deed for him whilst he gloats like some kind of master mind.

Well, two can play at that game, and I’m not a man that plays to lose. If Warrior likes sneak attacks so much then I’ll just have to beat him at his own game. And frankly, I think I did that already.

Rodgers: And what about May? I don’t see her here tonight, are the rumours of a split true?

Jace: They’re rumours, and just that. For now though, May’s keeping away from the arena, that way, she can stay safe and we don’t have to worry about Warrior attacking her again for being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Rodgers: That makes sense. You seem quite happy to come down to Warrior’s level to face him on his own terms, don’t you think that accepting this will just have further repercussions for you?

Jace: As long as Warrior has Rivera’s cock in his mouth, I will always be forced to fight Warrior on his own terms. Rivera’s giving him exactly what he wants, like booking that submission match at Retribution; that was never a fair fight. Facing off in a cage, or a street fight, those would be fair fights. Hell, fighting Warrior in a ladder match is more equal, but a submission match clearly favours the submission expert. The problem is that I don’t get a choice, I have to fight Warrior on his terms because he’s doing favours for Rivera.

As for repercussions, well, I think that now, it’s Warrior that should worry about them. For too long, I’ve been the victim of his attacks and assaults, but now he’s going to be facing a far more dangerous Jason Ambrose. He’s put me through Hell and I’ve still come back for more, so what does that say for me? If I can take all of his crap and return to face him again, then it means that he’s going to have do better in future if he wants rid of me.

Rodgers: Are… Are you inviting Warrior to attack you?

Jace: Warrior’s going to do it anyway, he’s more of a beast than a man, and he’ll take whatever underhand advantages he can get, because he doesn’t have the balls to face me in a fair fight. I may not be able to stop him resorting to cheap shots and dirty tactics, but I can definitely make him pay for such actions.

Tonight, I’m facing him in a tag match. Rivera’s probably done this to protect Warrior, knowing that having two other men in the ring with us will stop Warrior and I going to town on each other, but really, it’s just a matter of time. It might happen anyway, but unlike before… I’m prepared.

Jace smirks as he holds up the same lead pipe he used to attack Warrior a fortnight ago.

Jace: For too long I have accepted this, I haven’t fought back, or made a move of my own because I believed that doing the right thing meant doing nothing. I’ve come to see that doing the right thing means being proactive; it means taking the fight to Warrior, and it means that sometimes, you do have to do what it takes to get the job done. I understand that now.

Warrior is a typical bully, he’s a coward at heart and that’s why he hides behind his posse, he always stacks the deck in his favour and he has no concept of honour or fair play. If I let him do this, then what’s to stop him moving on to other people? Will he go after Danny Tenfold, because he’s my partner tonight? Will he go after Illidan Bane because he’s getting noticed now? Will he go after Natalie Burrows, simply because she’s a woman? I have to put a stop to Warrior and whilst I thought that just beating him would be enough, I see the error of my ways.

If I’m going to put a stop to Warrior, then I’m going to have to do things his way. I’ll have to beat him into submission, and put him in a hospital, just like he did to me all those weeks ago when this began. Is it honourable to do that? Is it Respectable? I can’t say, but I can tell you this; it’s the right thing to do. Warrior has been doing this for years, and he’s never truly learnt that it cannot go on. I’ll make sure he knows that.

One way or another, before this is done, I will have made Warrior see that. Even if it means I have to beat seven shades of crap out of him to do it.

Jace stares into the camera before turning and heading into the locker room, leaving Rodgers stood by, somewhat dumbstruck as the feed fades out to a commercial break.

[primetime]

Singles Match
Standard Rules
Ewan Jakeway vs Shawn Ashen

“New York, New York” by B.o.B hits as Ewan Jakeway walks out through the curtain and stops briefly to hold both hands into the air, pointing straight up to get the fans going.

Walt: The following match is scheduled for one fall. On his way to the ring, from New York, New York, weighing in at two-hundred-and-thirty-five pounds, EWAN JAKEWAAAAAAAAAY!

Jakeway punches his chest twice and points again before walking down the ramp, occasionally hitting his chest and pointing into the crowd or up to the ceiling until he reaches the bottom of the ramp. Ewan runs up the stairs and goes between the ropes before walking to the opposing corner. He climbs to the top turnbuckle and holds both hands into the air to continue getting the crowd going before he jumps off the turnbuckle and walks around, itching to get this match started.

Walt: And his opponent, from Omaha, Nebraska, and weighing two-hundred-and-fifty pounds, SHAAAAAAAAAAAAAWN ASHEN!

The lights in the arena dim as “Follow Me” by Breaking Benjamin begins playing over the speakers. The crowd immediately begins to boo as an associate quickly runs from behind the curtain with a broom, sweeping the ramp. The boos only get louder as Shawn Ashen makes his way through the curtain, berating his associate the entire way to ensure no dust or grime gets onto his boots. He boasts an arrogant sneer as he gazes at the populace, seemingly basking in the hate he receives. He calmly climbs onto the apron now and wipes his feet before casually shooing away his associate and entering the ring. Once there, he stretches on the ropes and calmly awaits the task in front of him.

Gibson: Time for our first match of the night, and I’m sure that tonight, like every night in the EUW, we’ll see plenty of shocks along the way!

Long: When are you going to learn, son, this is the Asylum now! Your EUW has fallen by the wayside with Kirk Kennedy and our “glorious” leader Mark Rivera is going to take us all to beautiful new heights!

Gibson: “Beautiful new heights”? I think I’m going to hurl…

The referee calls for the bell and the match begins.

DING! DING! DING!

Jakeway and Ashen approach each other in the centre of the ring, as a brief stare down ensues, neither man making a move, until Ashen shakes his head and walks away to his corner, leaning against the turnbuckle. Jakeway seems unconcerned, but the referee approaches, telling Ashen that he’s got a match to fight, but Ashen just shrugs it off.

Gibson: It doesn’t look like Ashen wants to fight.

Long: Can you blame him? Ashen is a self-made millionaire, he should have to waste his time on costumed punks like this Jakeway. Just being in the same ring as this guy is probably causing Ashen’s stock to plummet…

Jakeway is still stood motionless in the centre of the ring, not entirely sure what to make of Ashen’s actions. Well, not entirely unsure.

Jakeway: Coward.

All of a sudden, Ashen’s ears prick up and his eyes narrow, Jakeway’s insult clearly having had an effect on him. Ashen laughs and walks right up to Jakeway, slapping him hard across the face. Before the referee can even begin to scold Ashen, Jakeway has grabbed his arm, twisted it around and forced Ashen into the Octopus Hold! Ashen squirms for a moment or two, but manages to power out of the hold, not having been worn down nearly enough as Jakeway steps back and shrugs. This action only serves to further annoy Ashen, who runs at Jakeway with a stiff lariat, but Jakeway ducks it, rolling aside and back up to his feet quickly.

Ashen charges at him with another lariat, and this time, Jakeway sidesteps it, grabbing the arm and twisting it behind Ashen into a hammerlock. Acting quickly, Ashen reaches up with his free arm and punches Jakeway in the face, the referee shouting at him for the closed fist. Ashen then leans forwards and throws his head back, catching Jakeway with a rear headbutt, loosening the grip enough for Ashen to break out of the hammerlock, turning and hitting a kick to the midsection, following it up with a DDT to lay Jakeway out. Ashen stomps on Jakeway’s back a few times before grabbing his legs, applying a Boston Crab.

Gibson: It looked like Ashen was going to let his temper get the better of him, but he’s managed to use that anger to land some powerful hits on Jakeway and could easily take control now!

Long: That was all just an act! Don’t you know anything, boy? The standing around, brushing off Jakeway and then pretending to be angry? It’s all just head games, and Ashen’s proving to be pretty good at them!

Gibson: …

Ashen leans back, putting more and more pressure onto Jakeway, but he refuses to give in and begins crawling across the ring towards the ropes. As Jakeway nears the ropes, Ashen drags him back, but this gives Jakeway a chance, and he manages to turn himself enough, to get one leg free, kicking Ashen in the chest and breaking the hold long enough to get back up to a standing position. Ashen approaches Jakeway, who is showing signs of fatigue after that Boston Crab, but still has enough life in him to counter an Irish Whip into one of his own, grabbing Ashen on the return and holding him perpendicular to his own body, before throwing him backwards with a nice looking Fallaway Slam, getting a pop from the crowd.

Jakeway stays down for a bit, holding his back, before getting to his feet and approaching Ashen, who is still down. Jakeway pulls Ashen up and hits a few chops to his chest, whipping him to the far set of ropes. Jakeway moves as if to throw a clothesline, so Ashen ducks to avoid it and gets a knee to the midsection, before finding himself caught in a headlock by Jakeway, who promptly follows up with an attempted suplex, but Ashen refuses to be lifted, instead converting into a suplex of his own. Ashen covers.

One…

Two…

Kickout!

Jakeway kicks out, leaving Ashen annoyed.

Long: That fool doesn’t know when to stay down!

Gibson: If he didn’t kick out, you would have called him weak, what’s the guy got to do to impress you?

Long: He needs to show the desire to win! Where’s the ruthlessness? He’s been in control a few times, but he’s always left himself open, that’s the problem!

Jakeway struggles to his feet as Ashen plants him with a firm lariat, pulling him up for a Helicopter Slam, going for a second pinfall.

One…

Two…

Kickout!

Jakeway gets a shoulder up, to cheers from the crowd, breaking the pin and frustrating Ashen further. Ashen slams his fist against the mat and pulls Jakeway up, grabbing him and forcing him into position for the Ashes to Ashes (Burning Hammer). Ashen composes himself and moves to swing Jakeway, but finds himself stuck, seeing that Jakeway is grabbing hold of the top rope with one arm, holding on tightly. Ashen attempts to pull Jakeway off, but Jakeway grabs the rope tightly and fires an elbow into Ashen’s face, before flipping over the ropes to land on the apron, as Ashen turns to face him. Jakeway reacts first, twisting Ashen around and nailing the “New Afterlife”! Ashen drops like a sack of rocks as Jakeway covers for the pin!

1..
2...
3!

Walt: Your winner… Ewan Jakeway!

Jakeway rises up off of Ashen and walks around the ring with one arm raised in victory! His theme song begins to play once more.

Gibson: Excellent win from the young star here!

Long: Agreed. His costume is ridiculous but I will give the man credit. He pulled out a win that was well earned.

[primetime]

The scene opens in the backstage, where Sarah Thompson is stood with Stephen Callaway, ready for an interview.

Thompson: I’m here with one of the latest-

Callaway: -and greatest-

Thompson: -additions to the Asylum roster. This is the man that always has an angel looking over him, Stephen Callaway!

Callaway: An angel?

Thompson: Yeah, that’s what you say, isn’t it? “I’m Stephen Callaway, and I’ve always got an angel!” Right?

Callaway almost face-palms at this.

Callaway: I… No… An angle! I always have an angle!

Thompson: Angle, schmangle. I’d prefer an angel, any day!

Callaway: I’m sure we could find you a pair of wings and a white dress. Not so sure about the halo, am I right?

Thompson: Um…

Sarah blinks, completely missing Callaway’s point.

Thompson: Anyway, I’m here to catch up with Stephen Callaway, an established wrestler that’s fought all over in the past and is now trying to make a name for himself here in the Asylum! How are you finding it so far, Stevie?

Callaway: Stephen. My name is “Stephen.” No-one calls me “Stevie”.

Thompson nods, and smiles apologetically.

Callaway: How am I finding it? So far, it’s a bit of a drag. I am Stephen Callaway, and I am a man of calibre and excellence, I should be fighting champions and headlining pay-per-views, but instead, I find myself fighting off rookies that are so green I can only assume that they’re made from recycled paper. I’m bored of it, I want action, I want challenges! Not these… Losers.

Thompson: You… You think you’re better than your opponents so far? Um, have you won a match yet?

Callaway: Have I won a match yet? Honestly, you don’t know my catch phrase, you don’t pronounce my name right and you don’t even know my win-loss record. What sort of a reporter are you? A bad one! A terrible one! You shouldn’t be interviewing a man as good as me! You should be interviewing schmucks and low lifes like… Uh… This guy!

Callaway points at Brandon Young, walking around the backstage idly. He hears Callaway and walks across, clearly unhappy with his comments.

Young: You got a problem with me?

Callaway: I’m just saying that you’re not fit to wipe my boots and that this atrocity of a woman isn’t fit to interview me. I haven’t said anything that isn't true!

Young: Who the Hell are you?

Thompson: He's Stevie Callaway!

Brandon shakes his head, a blank look on his face.

Thompson: The man with an angel?

Callaway: Angle.

Thompson: Sorry. Angle.

Brandon young shrugs, still not really sure what's going on.

Callaway: I'm Stephen Callaway!

Young: Oh, really? Well I've never heard of you, but you can consider it game on. I'm not the sort to back down, so I’ll see you in a fortnight, Callahan, if you’re man enough.

Callaway: Callahan…? Callaway! It’s Callaway, damn it! CALLAWAY!

Young shrugs as he walks away, the camera panning back to Thompson and Callaway.

Thompson: Well, I think we’re done here! I’ve been Sarah Thompson interviewing Stephen Callaway, the guy with an angel!

Thompson smiles and walks away obliviously as the camera continues to show a flustered Callaway.

Callaway!: Angle! ANGLE! I’m the man that’s always got an angle! Lots of them!

Callaway sighs and shakes his head as the scene fades out…

****

The cameras cut backstage now to find Shawn Ashen walking down a long hallway. Having changed into his formal business attire, Ashen looks to be all business, completely ignoring the results from his match earlier. He walks down the hall at a brisk pace before ultimately coming upon a large door. He gazes at the nameplate on the door and makes a mental note of it in his head before the camera zooms in on the name: MARK RIVERA.

Smirking slightly, Ashen calmly opens the door now and enters the room. Upon seeing him, Rivera stands up from his desk and extends his hand to Ashen. Ashen shakes hand in a business fashion before taking a seat across from Rivera. Rivera sits back down now and they get straight to business.

Mark Rivera: Well then, shall we get down to business?

Shawn Ashen: That’s why I’m here Mark. What exactly are you proposing?

Mark Rivera: Well, I was wondering if I could perhaps buy something from you. Now that I am the one running the Asylum and the company is doing so well, I have a much higher net worth…though still paltry compared to you of course.

Shawn Ashen: Cut the flattery Mark. You know that’s not my style. What are you after?

Mark Rivera: I want to purchase your information on The Scorpion. His name, his background, the works. I also want…the name of his mother’s killer.

There is an audible gasp from the crowd at the sound of this, as they have come to know that such an issue is the absolute hot button for the former champion. Ashen simply looks at Rivera in confusion before responding to his request.

Shawn Ashen: What the hell do you want that for?

Mark Rivera: Because it’s the only way I can control him Shawn. TITAN is a maniac that can snap at a moment’s notice and I think The Scorpion is one of the very few in this company that has a chance against him. I need him on my team and those papers are the only way I can do that.

Shawn Ashen: What would I get in return?

Mark Rivera: If you do this, I’ll pay you one million dollars cash and also make you a partner in the company!

Ashen softly chuckles in his seat before looking back at Rivera with a look of disgust.

Shawn Ashen: One million? One measly million? I can make that in two minutes with a single phone call! But I will say I’m intrigued as to the partnership offer. Are you saying I would be granted full administrative powers similar to your own?

Mark Rivera: Well no, I would still have final say…

Shawn Ashen: Then forget it. You know as well as I do you would just use my money to bolster your own status. You and I also know that you don’t own my contract, so you have no legal standing over me. If you want those documents, you had best come up with something better!

Mark Rivera: Okay Shawn. How about one million dollars, partnership, and a creative control clause written into your contract? You pick your own matches, your own dates, and your own airtime.

Shawn Ashen: I keep a copy of all the files. That way we can both exercise authority over him. Everything you have just stated plus I keep a copy of the files. That’s my offer.

Mark Rivera: Fine Shawn. I can deal with that.

Shawn Ashen: Then draw up the agreement in writing and send it to my legal team. They’ll look it over and you should have the contract by the next show. It appears we are back in business my friend.

With that, both men stand up and shake hands once again. Their partnership apparently renewed, the two men now begin to casually discuss various issues.

Shawn Ashen: So how are things on the contract front these days?

Mark Rivera: Oh things are going well. Pretty well everyone besides you has had their paperwork transferred over to the Asylum brand. You really do have some brilliant lawyers to find that loophole you know.

Shawn Ashen: Of course! The legal team of Ashen Enterprises is among the highest paid and most efficient in the known world! Who else would find that you need unanimous board approval to transfer my contract?

Mark Rivera: You definitely are a smart one Shawn.

The two men continue to laugh and discuss things, but the cameraman slowly turns and walks out of the room. He exits the door, but then suddenly looks to his right. Apparently, there has been a man listening to the whole conversation from outside the door. The camera turns now and sees…THE SCORPION! The crowd actually reacts rather positively at this sight, cheering as The Scorpion slowly nods at the camera before turning and walking away without a word…

[primetime]

Tag Team Match
Standard Rules
Warrior and Roy Viper vs Jace Ambrose and Danny Tenfold

Gibson: Welcome back to the show! Our next tag match is sure to be an exciting one as.. wait, what's this?

The feed switches to a different part of the arena where we see Brett Cross! He places what looks to be.. a throne on a nearby balcony! Finding a seat in it, he then waits as a king would look over his kingdom as the match prepares to start..

Long: Look at that man.. royalty.

Gibson: Yeah.. something like that.

John Walt: And now for our next match! Coming down to the ring, Amazing Jace Ambrose!

"Ladies and Gentlemen" by Saliva hits the sound system as red and purple lights flash across the arena. Jace walks out a few into the song and pauses at the top of the ramp, flexing for the crowd. He pumps up his right bicep and kisses it before throwing his arms down and walking towards the ring, slapping hands with the fans along the way. He then slides into the ring under the bottom rope and climbs the nearest turnbuckle, posing once again, before taking off his headband and hurling it into the crowd.

Walt: And his partner, Danny Tenfold!

"Sidstyler" by Machinae Supremacy begins to blasts from the loud speakers as Danny Tenfold steps out onto the stage to cheers from the fans. He looks around and grins before quickly making his way down the ramp, high-fiving fans on the way. When he gets to the bottom of the ramp he slides into the ring under the bottom rope. He hops to his feet in the middle of the ring and raises his right fist as he looks around the arena, taking in the applause. Danny finally heads to his corner as the music fades.


Walt: Now, their opponents. Coming to the ring first.. he is Roy Viper!!

As Ireland can be faintly heard Roy leads the whole team to the stage area. Each dressed to fit their own style and carrying a weapon. Roy a sledge hammer, Leo a chair, Shamus a lead pipe, Peter a steal chain, and John a trashcan, Morgan and Mary both are wearing sliver knuckles. After pausing on stage for the words to become clear Shamus takes point and the group heads to the ring to keep the mystery of who is fighting. As they all stand ring side Roy hands his hammer to Morgan and slides into the ring before perching himself across the top rope and waiting for the match to start soaking in the crowds emotion

Walt: And his opponent... WARRIOR!!

"World On Fire" by Firewind bursts through the arena as Warrior steps out onto the ramp, full of anger and energy. He goes to each side of the ramp, taunting the crowd and eliciting even more boos from them. As he soaks them in, Warrior then bolts down the ramp. He slides into the ring and goes to the ropes, placing one foot on the bottom rope and the other on the middle rope. He flings his arms in the air, creating even more negativity from the crowd which he seems to feed upon. He hops down, going to a corner and loosening up for the match by pounding his fists together and rotating his wrists.


The bell sounds as Jace Ambrose steps into the ring and gestures at Warrior, telling him to ‘bring it.’ Warrior gives him a dismissive wave as Roy Viper steps into the ring as Jace shakes his head before circling around the ring. The two come together collar and elbow and try and win the test of strength but it ends up culminating in a stale mate until Roy breaks the hold and rakes the eyes of Ambrose. Jace clutches his face as Roy throws a knee lift that doubles him over before taking him down with a snap mere and immediately locking on a rear chin lock. Viper grins as Jace claws against his hands but is unable to pry the grip of Viper off.

He relaxes into the hold, letting his body go limp as he leans into the body of Viper and pushes himself up before attempting to slip out the bottom. Viper strengthens his hold which allows Jace to grab hold of his arm and toss his hips to the ropes, looking to Irish whip Roy across the ring. Roy counters though and flip his hips sending Jace flying into them. Jace comes flying back and Roy looks for a clothesline but Jace ducks under and heads back across the ring. Roy grabs a hold of the referee shielding his view as Warrior delivers a stiff forearm shot to the back of Jace knocking him down to the canvas. This draws the ire of Danny Tenfold who jumps into the ring but is cut off by the referee.

Long: Excellent officiating here from our senior referee. Danny Tenfold Is not the legal man and has no business inside of that ring now.

Gibson: Conveniently ignoring the contributions of Warrior there however.

Warrior ducks into the ring and the two begin to double team Ambrose, connecting with a set of alternating chops before connecting with a combo power slam. Roy ducks out of the ring as Warrior claps his hands and the referee turns around, signalling the legal tag as he covers Jace.

…1
…2

No! Jace kicks out at two as the referee thrusts two fingers into the air. Warrior wastes little time pulling Jace up to his feet before planting him with a scoop slam, and then dropping a knee right onto his forehead and doing a barrel roll. He pops up to his feet and does the same thing, mocking Jace Ambrose as he pops to his feet and poses before tagging in Roy Viper he slingshots into the ring and drops a leg across the throat of Jace. Rolling over he hooks the leg as the count is made once again.

…1
…2

No! Again Jace kicks out and Roy makes a tag to Warrior.

Gibson: Solid tag team wrestling here from Warrior and Roy Viper, isolating one man in their side of the ring, alternating quick tags to keep the fresh man in the ring.

Long: You expect anything less from these two. You’re looking at two men who Mark Rivera, the visionary who brought us everything you see here, trusted. He wouldn’t do that with two mediocre competitors like ‘The Craptacular’ Jace Ambrose and Danny ‘Doesn’t Know’ Tenholds.

Warrior pulls Jace to his feet and tosses him into the ropes and on the rebound looks for a back body drop. Jace gets tossed into the air but manages to stick the landing. Warrior gloats a little bit, taking his time before Roy points at Jace standing on his feet. Warrior turns around and Jace connects with a boot to the gut and promptly follows it up with an Amazing DDT. Both men stay down for a moment before rolling over and beginning to crawl back to their own corners. It appears to be even but Jace Ambrose gets a surge of energy and leaps towards Tenfold and makes the tag, giving him a second advantage over Viper. It pays off as Danny knocks Roy over with a clothesline as he comes in, then tosses him with an arm drag before knocking him over with another clothesline as the crowd pops. Roy is slower to his feet as Danny lines him up and takes off before leaping up, showing impressive athleticism as he lands on Roy’s shoulders. He bluffs the hurricanrana before snapping down and rolling him up.

…1
…2

Roy kicks out, but gets absolutely brained by a stiff kick from Danny after attempting to roll to his feet. Danny measures him up and when Roy groggily rolls up, hooks the arms and connects with a dragon suplex and holding it for the count.

Gibson: This could be it.

…1
…2

No! Warrior frantically dives across the ring and breaks up the pinfall bringing Jace Ambrose into the ring. Jace pulls Warrior up to his feet and scores with a big forearm shot as Tenfold gets up as well. The two press him into the ropes before flinging him across the ring, linking arms and then charging at him, planting him in the center of the ring with a vicious clothesline that turned him inside out.

Long: Disqualification right there. Absolutely no respect for the rules from that clown Ambrose.

Warrior rolls out of the ring as Ambrose returns to his corner. Tenfold goes to pull Viper up to his feet but is caught by a stiff punch to the gut and then a jawbreaker causing him to stumble away and allowing Roy to get up clean. As Tenfold turns around, Roy leaps back at him and takes him down with a Snake Bite! Tenfold appears to be in trouble as Roy makes the cover.

…1
…2

No! Tenfold kicks out as Ambrose ducks back out of the ring but not without receiving admonishment from the referee. Warrior gets to his feet in his corner as Roy pulls Tenfold up and then slams him face first into the massive boot of Warrior who raises his hands in innocence as the referee turns around before tagging himself in. Roy looks at him for a moment with disdain, but eventually ducks out of the way as he looks to end Danny Tenfold with a Rage, but fails as once again the superb leaping ability of Tenfold is on display as he leaps over Warrior. Pulling up Ambrose smiles and waves at Warrior who turns around right into a pele kick from Danny Tenfold who makes the cover.

Gibson: Impressive agility there from Danny Tenfold. Definitely one of the exciting young talents here in The Asylum.

Long: This isn’t high jumping, it’s wrestling and just look at those spindly legs. TITAN eats eight of those for a snack.

…1
…2

No! Roy Viper dives into the break the count up and once again it brings Jace Ambrose in as things start to break down. Ambrose and Tenfold double team Roy for a moment before Warrior grabs hold of Ambrose as the referee looks on, trying to restore order in the match. Warrior and Jace fight in one corner, each man exchanging blows until Jace connects with a big clothesline that spills both men out over the top. Content with only having two parties in the ring, the referee turns his focus to Roy choking Tenfold in the corner and orders him to break the hold. Roy takes the full five seconds before walking away. On the outside, Ambrose is shown grabbing Warrior by the hair and rolling him into the ring. As Ambrose follows, Warrior is somehow able to gather himself, kicking Ambrose in the jaw as he enters and sending him to ringside once again! Warrior then rolls over and signals Viper for the tag. Tenfold reaches to grapple Viper but is kicked in the gut! Viper then dives to his corner, tagging in Warrior!

As the fans boo loudly, Warrior swings a wild clothesline at Tenfold, only to come up with air! Tenfold easily ducks under the strike and brings him in with a DDT! Warrior struggles to break free by driving his leg between Tenfold’s legs! Tenfold counters this by pulling back into a small package!! Viper immediately looks to break up the maneuver but finds his legs yanked out from underneath him by Ambrose as the fans cheer! Tenfold holds on to the small package as Warrior struggles to be free… but he is too worn out to break out.

1..
2.…
3!

Walt: Your winners, Jace Ambrose and Danny Tenfold!

Tenfold releases the hold and rolls away quickly, leaving Warrior lying on his back. He blows the hair out of his face in frustration, as Ambrose and Tenfold head up the ramp way in celebration. Roy Viper enters the ring now, and he doesn’t look to happy at all! Snatching the microphone form John Walt, he begins to speak as the fans boo loudly.

Viper: You.. Cost me this match. Where is the Warrior that I remember, huh? What have you become?!

Warrior sits up slowly, glaring in Viper’s direction.

Viper: You were one of the greats, Warrior. Now, you are a broken old man. Consider tonight the last time I ever stand by your side. When next we meet.. We are enemies. That is bad news.. For you.

Viper slams the microphone down and exit’s the ring. He stops in his tracks as Warrior shouts out to him, picking up the same mic. He is sitting down in the center of the ring.

Warrior: That’s fine. Do you think I need you? Do you think I need any one here? I am WARRIOR! I have done it all in this business! Believe me, 10 years from now people will still speak of me. You will just be a faint memory…

The fans begin to boo even louder.

Warrior: And Jace.. I am done playing this stupid game with you. We are going to move things forward a bit. At Scars and Stripes, I am ending your career… or you will end mine. If I can’t take your pansy ass out, there is no use in showing my face around ever again!

As the fans boo loudly, the feed zooms in on Warrior. It then fades out..

[primetime]

One of the many EUW-Asylum cameras come alive with a clear view of Mark Rivera, seated comfortably in his spacious office. Every arena that the EUW-Asylum goes to for its bi-weekly show, Rivera always gets a private office for himself on the top floor. He insists that it has to be on the top floor to symbolize his gross power as the de facto owner of this federation. The desk he is behind is hard onyx, a sort of grayish-blackish love child. The floor itself is composed of wood, some kind of Brazilian import, and it makes this kind of sophisticated squeaky sound when Rivera walks on it. A knock is heard on the large double door entrance of the office before it slightly opens and Rivera's male secretary peeks his head in.

"Sir…umm….Immanuel Taylor and Tyreke Bell are here, sir"

Rivera puts down the document he's scanning, lowers his glasses to the bridge of his nose and eyes the young punk. He nods and after a five second respite Tyreke Bell and Immanuel Taylor are escorted in by a 5-man army of security guard armed with tazers and batons.

"Boys, come in. come in." Rivera turns to the guards. "You boys can stay in the background by the flat screen"

There are two seats placed in front of Rivera's desk. They are both placed right next to each other, connected by their arm rests. Tyreke removes his hardcore belt and puts it on his lap as he takes a seat on the left one as Immanuel takes a seat on the right one.

"I hope the seats aren't too close to each other." Rivera raises a hand, telling Church and Taylor not to speak. He waits for five seconds before continuing, "Oh wait…they are! And that's because I intentionally placed them as close as possible to each other. Don't just love me?"

No response from either Bell or Taylor as they sit there. Immanuel's elbow slightly touches Tyreke's shoulder and he immediately erupts.

"You touch me again, motherfucker, and I'll bang your head at the edge of that table!"

The security guards immediately step to the front as Tyreke leans towards Immanuel, who is still and emotionless. His eyes mechanically scan Tyreke, who seems to be challenging Immanuel by leaning in forward.

"Oh for fuck's sake, behave you two. How are you can pretend to be a team tonight against Redemption? After all, they are a real team. And a very good one at that"

"Tell that to the thief"

"Come on Tyreke, you didn't go around stealing things from people when you were a kid growing up in Baltimore City?" Rivera smiles a bit. "Yeah, I hear you grew up in a messed up neighborhood. Had a little rough childhood, didn't you?"

"I never stole anything that didn't deserve to be stolen"

"What?"

"I said I…"

"Wait, don't even bother." Rivera took off his glasses and threw them on the table before pushing the document he was reading to the side. "Do you know why I summoned the both of you here? Let me give you a hint. It involves extremely sharp barbed wire."

Rivera lets out a confident chuckle as Immanuel and Tyreke sit there, silent and uncomfortable.

"Immanuel Taylor versus Tyreke Bell for the Hardkore Title in a Barbed Wire match. I love it! It's going to be edgy, dark, twisted, and just the way to settle this little catfight between the both of you. Any one of you ever competed in a barbed wire match before? Tyreke?"

"No"

"Immanuel?"

Immanuel shook his head, indicating a No. Rivera let out another one his chuckles and he seemed to be genuinely enjoying consuming the discomfort and agitation of both men.

"Well, let me give you a headsup. It's going to be the most painful and embarrassing experience in your life. Like a naked shower fight. Which is why I want the both of you in tip top shape when Scars and Stripes rolls by and which is why I am officially ordering a ban on any physical interaction between the both of you before that match. Did you hear me? Immanuel? Tyreke?"

"What happens if he jumps me and I need to defend myself?" Immanuel replied as Rivera obviously knew whom the "he" was referring to.

"You talking about me, bitch?" Tyreke shot back before Rivera could. "Man, if I jump you you'd be out cold till next Sunday before you could…."

"The rule applies to both of you concurrently" Rivera cut in with a loud voice. "If Tyreke jumps Immanuel, he gets stripped of the title. If Immanuel jumps Tyreke, he gets stripped of the title shot. And when either of you get stripped, you get stripped indefinitely. And I mean it. You lost the title or the title shot and you will not have another chance to regain it. Clear enough? And I'm talking both in and out of the ring."

Both Immanuel and Tyreke nod.

"Beautiful. Now you can leave and prepare for your match." Tyreke got up first and made it to the door and outside. Immanuel got up and went to the door when Rivera suddenly spoke up. "Immanuel, stay. Close the door."

Immanuel stood there for a second before closing the door and staying on his feet.

"Take a seat"

"Don't need to"

"Very well." Rivera opened one of his drawers and took out Immanuel's biography folder before opening it on the face of the desk. "Remind me where you're from again."

"Baltimore City, Maryland"

"No you're not." Rivera said and Immanuel slightly froze. "It says here that you were born in Baltimore. I asked where you're from. Your origins, boy. Where you from?"

"It's the same thing"

"No it's not." Rivera leant back in his chair and eyed Immanuel. "You're way too white to hail from a place like Baltimore. You've obviously got European origins."

"No"

"Hm? You sure of that answer? The reason I ask, peasant, is because I took the time to call the hospital you stated you were born in. They didn’t have any records for an Immanuel Taylor. Right here, in your bio, it says you were born in…umm…" Rivera took a second to read the name of the place. "Mercy Medical Center. 301 St. Paul Place. You know, if you want to bullshit someone, you shouldn't use too much detail. Ruins the simplicity and feasibility of it."

"I'm not bullshiting"

"Then where's the birth record?"

"Must have gotten deleted or lost or something. I was born in the late sixties. There's been a lot of technological advancements since then"

Rivera let out a chuckle before it turned to a controlled but loud laugh. Immanuel simply stood there.

"Technological advancements….hmm, I like that." Rivera paused for a bit. "You know what your problem is, Immanuel?"

Immanuel is silent and unresponsive. Rivera continues.

"You think that you're untouchable. Invincible. Not in the ring, of course, but out of it. That's why you keep a distance from everyone. Wouldn't want people getting intimate with you, now, would you? Wouldn't want people to start…asking questions."

"I have nothing to hide"

A minute of silence passed as Rivera and Immanuel stared down one another. Their eyes met and both men remained resolute. Immanuel broke the silence.

"I'd like to go get ready for my match if it's possible"

"Oh, it's possible, boy. It's possible. You go do that now."

Immanuel made his way out of the office, shutting the door with a thump to it as Rivera sat there, reflecting on his recent sparring. The camera, having already captured the suspense and action, began to zoom away and eventually cut its feed of Rivera's office.

[primetime]

Backstage, all three members of Redemption are huddled in the corner of a coridoor, talking in hushed tones amongst themselves and ignoring the various Asylum Staff members who walk past them.

Cripate: Now that we're making waves within the Tag Team Division here, maybe it's time we go against the one team that has so far eluded us: Violent Conduct. I believe that we can make an impression upon these fine fans, and maybe it will even get us an audience with the Tag Team Champions themselves.

Bonelo remains silent.

Jakeway: Wouldn't it be better to wait and see if you get an audience with them? It's not like we should just go in and demand a shot at Violent Conduct. As much as they are braggarts, it wouldn't really be the right thing to do. If we get a match with them, then good! If we don't, it shouldn't bother us.

Cripate: I wasn't suggesting that we specifically target them, but rather let our intentions be known in the ring. I believe that we could have a shot at them if we take care of Immanuel Taylor and Tyreke Bell tonight. We've just got to roll with the punches.

Bonelo: When the time comes, the time comes. If the time doesn't come, then it doesn't come. While I hope that one day Redemption stands in that hallowed ring to do battle with Violent Conduct, it is not something i'm necessarily focused on. Our focus tonight should be on our two tough opponents: Tyreke Bell and Immanuel Taylor. Both are men whom have had their problems with eachother, but they can still pose a hazard to us.

Cripate: I've got your back, Ethen. Bell may be a hard-hitter, but he is too cocky and too brash to remain focused. Taylor may be dangerous and almost methodical in his approaches, but sometimes he becomes too methodical. I believe that we can have a good fight here, and perhaps even take the win.

Bonelo: We shall see. For now, we will go out there and we will wrestle. We won't brag, we won't grab the microphone and talk, we will go out there and do what we do best.

Jakeway: Good luck. Both of you. Bring this one home for Redemption.

Before Bonelo and Cripate can retire back to the locker room to prepare, Violent Conduct walk by, eyeing Redemption with grins on their faces.

Anderson: Whoa, look it's the Watchmen! We're watching you, kids, don't go biting off more than you can chew.

Blain: Someone should tell you assholes that Comic-Con has came and gone! There's no way you guys can beat us, not while you're dressed like a couple of nerds and pretending you're all some kind of brilliant team! You guys went against Violent Conduct, and failed against Violent Conduct, just like you'll fail against Taylor and Bell tonight!

Anderson: You do win the costume contest though, especially now that Dante ain't around no more.

Without muttering a word, Bonelo simply walks away from Violent Conduct, followed by Cripate and Jakeway who don't even give a wayward glance to them. Redemptions extraordinary self-restraint and self-discipline simply makes Violent Conduct seeth even more, looking at eachother before watching Redemption walk away.

Blain: ...Fuckin' bunch of freaks. They're everywhere!

Tag Team MatchStandard Rules
Tyreke Church and Immanuel Taylor vs Redemption

Gibson: Next is a Tag Team Match with some..strange bedfellows to say the least.

Long; Oh yes! Tyreke Bell and Immanuel Taylor, two men who will go toe-to-toe at Scars and Stripes will be partnering tonight against Redemption! This one will be interesting to watch.

Gibson: Redemption are on a roll as of late, and putting away Taylor and Bell would certainly give them something to shout about….if they did much shouting….which they don’t.

Long: Indeed. Two silent, quite weird people in Redemption.

Gibson: I wouldn’t go that far…I’d call them unique.

Long: No, unique is the Elephant Man. These guys are weird.

“Afterlife” by Avenged Sevenfold begins to play as the tron shows footage of the Orlando skyline. Bursting from behind the curtain, Roman Cripate and Ethen Bonelo run out onto the stage, pausing at the top for a moment and panning the cheering crowd. Both men look at eachother and nod before making their way down the ramp, slapping the hands of several fans as they make their way to the ring.

Walt: At a combined weight of four hundred and fifty pounds, the team of Roman Cripate and Ethen Bonelo…REDEMPTION!!!

Both men run forward at the bottom of the ramp, sliding into the ring. Roman and Ethen look around at the crowd before popping up onto their feet and heading to the upper-right corner of the ring. Both men bow their heads, talking quietly amongst eachother before nodding as Roman Cripate takes his position on the apron. The lights in the arena dim and “Afterlife” cuts out as "Can't Be Touched" by Roy Jones Jr begins to play over the sound system. As the first words hit the speaker, Church Bell emerges from the curtain wearing his trademark purple boxing robe. He keeps his head down and steadily walks down the ramp, taking in the crowd's mixed reaction.

Walt: From Baltimore, Maryland, weighing in at one hundred and sixty eight pounds…TYREKE! CHURCH!! BEEEEEELLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!

Bell continues walking down the ramp before reaching the ring, grasping the middle rope and pulling himself onto the apron before climbing in, carefully taking off his robe and draping it in the opposite corner from where Redemption are standing. “Can’t Be Touched” cuts out, replaced by “Tyrant” by Judas Priest. The crowd turn somewhat silent, watching in awe and attention as Immanuel Taylor walks out to the stage before immediately heading down the ramp, straight towards the ring

Walt: From Baltimore, Maryland weighing in at two hundred and forty one pounds....IMMANUEL! TAYLORRRRR!!!

Immanuel removes his hoodie, placing it on the steel steps below his and Bells corner and walks up the steps, climbing into the ring and climbing onto the corner near where Bell is standing on the apron, his arms firmly beside his body. He gives the slightest of nods before turning around and hopping down from the turnbuckle, glancing at Tyreke Bell. Bell almost sneers at the sight of Taylor before climbing into the ring, pointing at Bonelo. Taylor looks at Church, shaking his head slightly as Bell’s brashness before climbing out onto the apron and grasping the tag rope.

Gibson: Amazing..Two Baltimore natives, and neither one of them really care about eachother. So much for neighbourly friendliness.

Long: This makes for a more interesting match. I’d rather not have them all hugs and smiles.

DING DING DING!

Bell immediately walks out of the corner, approaching Bonelo carefully with his arms in front of him, inviting Bonelo for a collar-and-elbow tie up. Bonelo moves forward, locking up with Bell as both men jostle in the middle of the ring. The larger Bonelo manages to shove Bell backwards, running forward and slamming a forearm into his jaw, sending Bell down to the mat which Bonelo quickly follows up by jumping into the air and slamming his elbow down onto Bell’s chest. Bell sits up on instinct and slowly gets to his feet as Bonelo turns around, runs at the ropes and rebounds off, hurtling towards Bell and nailing him with a swift lariat, sending him down to the mat once more.

Bonelo grabs both of Bell’s legs, dragging him backwards into Redemptions corner before hauling him to his feet and grabbing the back of his neck, keeping him stood still as Cripate instinctively tags himself in, hopping onto the top rope and leaping at Bell, locking his legs around his neck and executing a swift Springboard Hurracanrana which sends Bell rolling across the ring. Cripate quickly rushes over to Bell, stomping on the back of his head before pulling him to his feet, moving behind him and locking him in a headlock before spiking his head down into the mat with a Headlock Driver. Taylor watches in, his face remaining neutral as Bell flops forward onto the mat.

Cripate quickly leaps to his feet, dragging Bell across the ring and back into Redemptions corner. Bonelo tags himself in as Cripate drags Bell to his feet, allowing Bonelo to climb in and Cripate to climb out onto the apron. Bonelo turns Bellaround to face the middle of the ring before moving around him, locking his arms around Bells and slamming him backwards with a quick Tiger Suplex. Bonelo gets to his feet, kneeling over Bell before getting to his feet and pulling Bell up with him, turning around and running, rebounding off the ropes. Bell quickly ducks under the incoming lariat, allowing Bonelo to run forward with it and rebound off the opposite set of ropes, heading towards Bell who ducks once more, turning around and darting forward, slamming his fist into Bonelo’s stomach. Bonelo doubles over, slightly winded and allows Bell to slam a left hook into his kidney. Bonelo collapses to his knees, clutching his side and allowing Bell to execute a thunderous right hook onto Bonelo, sending him to the mat.

With Bonelo subdued, Bell grabs his feet, dragging him into the middle of the ring before pulling him up by his mask, delivering a swift right hook into Bonelo’s kidney before whipping him into the lower-right corner of the ring, moving forward and beginning to roughly stomp away on Bonelo’s abdomen. Cripate runs across the apron, but Taylor slowly walks over to the corner too, forcing Cripate to stop suddenly. Bell turns to Taylor, telling him to get back into the corner for the tag. Taylor slowly walks back to his corner, grabbing the tag rope, but Bell simply responds by delivering several more stomps into Bonelo’s gut, quickly grasping his right arm and pulling him up before turning him around, locking his arms tightly around his neck and locking in a Million Dollar Dream, dragging him backwards. Bonelo, the larger man, starts to forcibly walk forward towards Redemptions corner as Cripate quickly returns to the corner, but Bell responds by ducking under Bonelo, lifting him and executing a quick backdrop.

With Bonelo down on the mat, Bell walks over to his corner, tagging in Taylor. Both men exchange dirty looks before Taylor climbs into the ring, rubbing his wrists and walking over to Bonelo, pulling him up carefully onto his feet before delivering a swift jab into Bonelo’s chest, sending him backwards and allowing Taylor to deliver three consecutive right-handed jabs into Bonelo’s chest. Bonelo stumbles backwards towards his corner, but Taylor lunges forward and leans down, wrapping an arm behind Bonelo’s legs and throwing him backwards with a flawlessly-executed T-Bone Suplex, quickly hooking Bonelo’s leg.

1….2…KICK OUT!

Bonelo thrusts a shoulder up, forcing Cripate who had climbed into the ring to quickly climb out before the referee admonishes him. Taylor gets to his feet, dragging Bonelo up with him before locking his arm around his neck, lifting him up and slamming him down into the mat with a Vertical Suplex, quickly rolling over with it for a second cover.

1….2..KICK OUT!

Bonelo forces his shoulder up much quicker, causing Taylor to quickly get to his feet, dragging Bonelo up by his right arm before whipping him into the upper-left corner, running forward and hitting a forceful Spear into Bonelo. Taylor walks away, allowing Bonelo to stumble out and fall to one knee, and in doing so allows Taylor to walk behind him, placing his body between Bonelo and the nearest ropes before locking his hands around Bonelo’s chin, forcing him down to a sitting position and locking in a Chin Lock.

Gibson: A very methodical match, here. You can tell that Taylor knows what he’s doing.

Long: It’s interesting to watch, if somewhat slow and dull.

Gibson: Long, every wrestler has their own ways of winning. Taylors is slowly dissecting his opponent before going in for the kill.

Taylor pulls back harder on Bonelo’s chin, forcing Cripate to climb into the ring. Bell quickly climbs into the ring as well, charging across the ring and leaping at Cripate, clotheslining him and sending both men clean over the top rope near Redemptions corner! Taylor watches, shaking his head before pulling back harder. Bonelo, desperate to escape, flings his head back, catching Taylor in his upper chest. Taylor flinches slightly, causing Bonelo to repeat it three times, eventually causing Taylor to let go. As soon as Bonelo gets to his feet and turns around, Taylor also gets up, delivering a swift jab into Bonelo’s left chest and sending him stumbling backwards into Redemptions corner. Bell is up on the outside, quickly running around the outside of the ring and hopping onto the apron. Cripate grasps the apron, slowly climbing onto it and forcing Taylor to grab Bonelo’s right arm, whipping him across the ring and charging forward, nailing a quick Spear into Bonelo’s abdomen. As Taylor pulls away, Bell slaps Taylors back and the referee signals the tag. Taylor looks up at Bell, who climbs into the ring and motions at the apron. Taylor glares at Bell, resisting the urge to punch him before climbing onto the apron, allowing Bell to drag him back into the middle of the ring before locking an arm around Bonelo’s neck, dropping him down and spiking his head into the mat with a vicious DDT, rolling him onto his back and covering him.

1…..2….KICK OUT!

Bonelo thrusts a shoulder up as Cripate quickly puts his feet on the bottom rope, grasping the tag rope and leaning in as far as he can, extending a hand out to try and urge Bonelo to tag in. Bonelo rolls onto his stomach, quickly crawling forward as Bell grabs his legs. Bonelo rolls onto his back, slamming both his feet into Bell’s gut and sending him backwards before lunging forward, tagging in Cripate who climbs into the ring, running at Bell quickly. Bell quickly goes for a right hook to Cripate’s jaw, but Cripate ducks under it, slamming his shoulder into Bell’s gut before lifting him and locking an arm around Bell’s neck as he hangs from Cripates shoulder, allowing him to slam him down and execute a vicious Schwein which drives Bell into the mat.

Gibson: Great move from Cripate there!

Long: One skinny runt lifting another skinny runt. It’s like the circus.

Gibson: Skinny runt? Really? Bell could knock you out in the blink of an eye and Cripate could knock you on your ass before you even know he’s there.

Cripate gets to his feet, looking over at Bonelo who is still pulling himself up on the apron. He leans down, grabbing Bell’s arm and pulling him to his feet before turning his back to him, locking his right arm around his neck and pointing to the nearest turnbuckle. Running forward, Cripate jumps up and slams his feet off the top turnbuckle, but before he can execute the rotation to hit the Painful Memories, Bell quickly grabs Cripate, pulling him backwards, falling back and slamming him into the ground with a swift back drop. Bell turns onto his stomach, crawling over to Cripate and covering him.

1…..2…KICK OUT!

Cripate quickly lunges his legs up, forcing his body off the mat to break the count. Bell lets go of the cover, slamming his hands on the mat before grabbing Cripate by his hair, pulling him up roughly to his feet before grabbing him and laying him over his shoulder, running forward. Before Bell can hit the running Powerslam, Cripate places his hands on Bells shoulders, quickly pushing himself from Bells grip. Bell turns around, walking right into a vicious Reverse Roundhouse Kick from Cripate which sends the heel of Cripate right into the side of Bells temple, sending him collapsing to the mat!

Taylor watches, rubbing his eyes as Cripate tags in Bonelo. Bonelo quickly climbs into the ring, grabbing Bell by the hair and pulling him to his feet, locking his arms around his and nailing a swift Tiger Suplex, sending Bell hard to the mat. Bonelo gets to his feet, tagging in Cripate who climbs to the top turnbuckle, leaping off and hitting a huge diving elbow drop to the fallen Bell! Once he hits it, he rolls through directly onto his feet, moving forward and tagging in Bonelo. Taylor still looks on with a completely neutral expression as Bonelo lifts Bell to his feet. Bell staggers backwards slightly, but Bonelo ducks under his side, lifting him up before planting his torso forcefully into the ground with an Inverted Olympic Slam. Bonelo rolls Bell onto his back, forcing him into a sitting position before stretching out his arm, tagging in Cripate who hops up, slingshotting off the ropes and into the ring, slamming his feet down into the top of Bell’s chest with a low dropkick. Bonelo climbs out of the ring, allowing Cripate to quickly haul Bell to his feet, turning around to the ropes, leaping on the top rope and hopping off, scissoring his legs around Bells neck and sweeping forwards with a fluid Springboard Hurracanrana.

Gibson: Damn, these quick tags are killing Tyreke Bell here!

Long: It’s good strategy. Sure, they dress like a couple of dorks, but it’s good strategy.

Gibson: One, what does dressing like dorks have to do with anything? Two..who uses the insult ‘dork’ anymore?!

The move sends Bell rolling across the ring, close to Immanuel Taylor’s corner. Taylor quickly sets one foot on the bottom rope and the other on the second rope. Taylor keeps a tight hold of the tag rope, leaning over and downwards as Bell pulls himself over. Cripate rolls to his feet, noticing Bell inching over to his corner and runs forward, but to no avail as Taylor manages to lean over the ropes and slap the back of Bell to signal the tag! Taylor quickly climbs in, delivering a thunderous left hook into Cripate’s abdomen, causing him to double over before Taylor moves behind him, locking his arms around his waist before throwing him backwards with a thunderous German Suplex which sends Cripate clean across the ring. Bonelo quickly leans over the top rope, tagging in Cripate and climbing into the ring, rushing at Taylor with a Lariat. Taylor ducks under, twisting around as Bonelo turns around, walking into a quick Hip Toss from Taylor. As soon as Bonelo lands on the ground, he scuttles up into a sitting position which allows Taylor to slam his foot into Bonelos back roughly. Bonelo lands on his back, allowing Taylor to grab his mask and pull him to his feet, wrapping an arm over Bonelo’s neck and lifting him up before slamming him down, spiking his head into the mat with a vicious Brainbuster! Taylor rolls him over, going for the cover..

1.....2…..3-KICK OUT!

Bonelo thrusts his shoulder up at the last possible second, breaking the pin. Taylor gets on his knees, grabbing Bonelo’s mask once more and pulling him to his feet. Bonelo quickly kicks Taylor in his right leg, sending him backwards before nailing another swift kick to his left leg before following it up with a quick uppercut, forcing Taylor back. Taylor aims a quick right hook to Bonelo’s jaw, but Bonelo quickly ducks, bringing his fist into Taylor’s gut before swinging up with a quick uppercut, forcing Taylor’s head to snap back roughly. Bonelo ducks under Taylor, grabbing his leg and arm and lifting him before planting him into the ground with an Inverted Olympic Slam. Bonelo quickly follows up by rolling onto his back, grabbing his legs and quickly locking in a Figure Four Leglock!

Bonelo leans back on his arms, wrenching the hold as much as he can. Taylor refuses to cry out or even so much as grimace in pain, instead, carefully easing himself back onto his arms as he begins to formulate a counter in his head. Bonelo almost lays back fully, arching his back and forcing further pressure onto Taylors legs. Taylor begins to rock back and forth on his rear, attempting to get some momentum going to roll both men through onto their stomachs and force the Figure Fours pressure onto Bonelo. Bonelo arches more, keeping the pressure on Taylor, but Bell, who was busy regaining his composure on the outside, quickly slides into the ring, rushing over and stomping on Bonelo’s chest repeatedly. Taylor watches in some disdain as Bell continues stomping as the referee rushes over, forcing him to go back into his corner. Cripate climbs out, but Bell quickly backs up, pointing at Cripate and forcing the referee to turn around, stopping Cripate from interfering. Bell runs over, stomping on Bonelo’s chest and forcing him to break the hold.

Rather than attempt another maneuver, Taylor slowly gets to his feet, jamming a finger in Bell’s chest and admonishing him for attempting to cheat to turn the tide in his favour. Bell responds by slapping away Taylor’s hand before slamming both hands into Taylor’s chest, shoving him backwards slightly. Taylor looks at Bell, then down at Bonelo before looking back at Bell who walks away, climbing out onto the apron. Taylor automatically walks over, slapping Bell’s chest and tagging himself out as Cripate and the crowd watch on in confusion! Bell looks at Taylor before shaking his head and climbing into the ring. Turning to Taylor, Bell gives an arrogant wink, telling him audibly to “Watch this” before turning around..

Only to be yanked into the ring by a waiting Bonelo! As the fans cheer, Roman hits the opponent with the Painful Memories while Bonelo plants them with the power bomb! Bell drops to the mat as the dup has now performed their finisher.. End of Sorrows! Bonelo covers for the pin while Cripate stares at Taylor. Taylor hops down to ringside and shrugs while laughing, leaving Bell alone to be pinned..

1...
2.…
3!

Walt: Your winners.. REDEMPTION!

The fans cheer as Redemption celebrates in the ring. Bell is shown slowly rolling over, his han don his head.

Gibson: Another win for Redemption here. Very Impressive.

Long: That bum, Taylor, left Bell high and dry. It wasn’t a fair fight.

Tyreke Bell is in the ring now and he gets back up, using the ropes to help him up. He rubs his eyes and straightens his back, having gone through a complicated and volatile tag team contest. Immanuel Taylor is on the outside and he has grabbed the title belt from John Walt. He rolls into the ring.

Rock Gibson: Uh oh…

Tyreke takes a couple of steps backwards as Immanuel approaches towards him with the Hardkore belt firmly in his hand.

Long: He'll lose the title shot if he does something stupid.

Rock Gibson: He won't. This is not Immanuel's style.

Long: Well, he is doing it right now!

Immanuel reaches Tyreke who senses something behind him and quickly turns around with his fists readied. Both men stand there, eye to eye. Tyreke glances at his title belt in Immanuel's arms. Immanuel extends his right arm with the title belt in it and Church quickly grabs it and swipes it away. He raises it in Immanuel's face, pointing to his name on it.

"The name tag ain't gonna change after Scars and Stripes!" Bell screams in Taylor's face.

Immanuel stares on in his cold, deatached manner for a couple of seconds before eventually turning around and making his way out of the ring. Immanuel walks up the ramp and disappears backstage as the Hardkore Champion stands there in the ring with the Hardkore Belt. He fastens it around his waist.

Rock Gibson: Told you wasn't his style

Long: I knew that. I was just..um…caught up in the heat of the moment.

Rock Gibson: Sure you were. This, however, still leaves the question of Church and Immanuel's title match at Scars and Stripes hanging in the air. Both men are going to collide in a violent and brutal match. The Barbed Wire match. Will it be enough to take down the feud between both men and if yes then who will walk away with both the Hardkore title and his life?

[primetime]

The camera cuts backstage to the hallway outside of Mark Rivera's office. At the moment, the boss is nowhere to be seen; instead, the sight that greets the eye is none other than the victorious Natalie Burrows. Faint cheers can be heard for the Southern Belle as she makes her way toward her locker room, although to do what is a mystery-- and it remains one, since the door opens and Mark steps out in front of the blond, a smirk on his face.

Rivera: Ah, just the talented young lady I was looking for.

Natalie smiles in return… albeit guardedly.

Burrows: Oh, ah, Mister Rivera… what can I do for you?

Rivera: Rest assured, Natty… there's plenty you can do for me.

Rivera gives the Southern Belle a rather thorough once-over with his eyes before he continues to speak, the crowd's boos easily heard in the background.

Rivera: But before we get to that, I wanted to congratulate you on your victory this week. There's a lot of potential in you, I think… and I know just how to get it to come out.

By now, Natalie's smile has faded in favor of a suspicious look, her arms crossing over her chest rather than under it. It's not so much an anger thing as it is trying to shield part of her body from his roving eyes.

Burrows: W-While I appreciate your kind words, Mister Rivera, I--

Rivera: --should join me for dinner, on me… and then dessert will be all on you. What do you say?

The crowd's boos grow more thunderous as Rivera slithers over to Natalie's side, slinging an arm loosely around her shoulders. She stiffens up considerably, openly frowning now-- and when she responds, her voice is downright frigidly polite.

Burrows: I think you are being highly inappropriate, Mister Rivera, and that you should let go of me go--

Rivera: Or else what, that scrawny little punk Brandon will come to your rescue? Please, sweetheart. He can't touch me.

A pause; the Southern Belle's eyes narrow.

Burrows: No… but I can.

And, with that, she brings up the leg closer to him and stomps down, as hard as she can, on his foot. Letting out a surprisingly girlish sound of pain, Rivera jerks away from the blond-- and she takes the opportunity to beat a hasty retreat, likely to see how many hot showers it will take to get his sleaze off of her. Hopping a few times before he puts his injured foot back down on the floor, Mark glares after her for a second… before he chuckles to himself, that smirk returning with a vengeance.

Rivera: A feisty one, huh…? I like that.

Mark continues to watch the blond hurry out of sight as the camera cuts elsewhere.

***

In the locker-room backstage, Mr. Luck, Zack Cornell and Dave Markinson have already changed into their gear, and are busy talking amongst eachother. Luck is sat on a steel folding chair, a black leather briefcase set down upon his lap. Two bodyguards, dressed in black suits, stand on either side of the door, hands clasped over their laps as they remain silent. Dave finishes up lacing his boots, setting his foot down with a heavy thud and clapping his hands together.

Luck: Are we all ready tonight? Are the pieces in place?

Cornell: Everything’s in place. We’ve got a few of Joe’s guards posted in here and outside, I’ve got the investment protector in my jacket, and everything is good to go. But the question is: Are both of you ready? Las Vegas Commission, taking on Bull and Xplode? Not an easy one, is it?

Dave: How is it not easy? We have one man who’s old and who is no longer even relevant to this company now that he’s got off his ass and stopped complaining about the young, shining stars in this company as if someone gives a crap about his words, and the other is..well, it’s Jack Bull, isn’t it? A man who talks the talk but can never walk the walk when the occasion calls for it.

Luck remains seated, hand on his chin as he remains deep in thought.

Cornell: Luck? Are you alright?

Luck: Look around us. What do you see?

Cornell: Well, I see the locker-room—

Luck: In the grander scheme of things, idiot! Do you know what I see? I see the winds of change blowing through this federation. Champions are emerging from the ashes, and the Asylum, horrible as its name may be, is already starting to construct itself comfortably from the old bones of the EUW. In this new place, we have no need for men like Xplode and Bull. So yes, I am alright. I’m alright because fate is on our side. The world is changing, Zack, and it is changing so that men like Bull, Xplode, and even Oblivion won’t be able to keep up with it for much longer. Mother Nature is going to start trimming the fat soon, and tonight? Well, we’re going to help her along in doing so.

Cornell: Do you think it will be that easy?

Luck: I don’t think, I know. Tonight, Bull and Xplode are as good as dead. They won’t last against me, the bastion of new hope within this god-forsaken federation. The Empire needs emperors it can believe in, not old praetorians whose time has came and gone. The public may not like it, but the clock has finally reached midnight for Xplode and Bull.

Cornell: Not yet, at least. We’ve still got some time to burn before we walk down to that ring.

Dave: Then maybe we should just go out and hunt those little bastards down? I mean, what can it hurt? We’ve got Rivera on our side, so we wouldn’t have to fear any repercussions, and if the Devils Due shows, we’ve got bodyguards now. C’mon. Just a quick sneak attack, just enough to slam a pipe down into Bulls spine to break it. Come on.

Luck: Let’s not get too hasty or too cocky, Dave. I want everything to go off tonight without a hitch. I want us to go in, take out Bull and Xplode, and walk out. It shouldn’t be too difficult, so I don’t see the reason to waste energy on breaking backs when we can do it in the ring.

Luck gets to his feet, pulling the briefcase from his lap and setting it on the steel chair before kneeling in front of it, grasping the bronze clasps and remaining incredibly still as he stares at it. Dave and Cornell share confused looks before Dave cracks his knuckles noisily.

Dave: Then it’s just a shame we have to wait to get our hands on those little runts. I want to see the future right here and right now. I want to get out there and finally put an end to this little charade once and for all: Xplode wandering around like he means something, and Bull running his mouth incessantly as if he is still a titan in the federation, when in fact he is just one of us mere mortals. I want to end this. Now.

Luck: Patience is a virtue, my friend. Time is ticking away.

Cornell: But what happens after we get of that irritating trifecta? What happens once Bull, Xplode and Oblivion are torn apart and scattered in the wind? What happens after tonight and after Scars and Stripes?

Luck clicks open the briefcase, revealing the contract he had secured previously at EUW Presents: Brawl for it All. He takes the contract, turning around and thrusting it into Zacks chest. Zack takes it, looking down at it.

Luck: As I said, this new empire needs new emperors. The winds of change blow strongly as the old leave and the new take their places. We are seeing newer members of the roster rise up the mountain in their attempt to take the throne. With that in mind, it is time that we stop seeing the same old people stake their claim to the World Championship. Men like Titan? Sabora? Bull? Who cares anymore? These people need…No, They WANT a new emperor…

Luck looks at the contract again, giving a small smile.

Luck: At Prestige, they’re going to get one.

[primetime]

Tag Team Match
Standard Rules
Chaos Theory vs The Las Vegas Commission

Gibson: What a night it has been thus far, folks! I can hardly believe what it yet to come! It has been some time since we have seen the team up of Chaos Theory. Jack Bull and Xplode had the means to become on of the most dominant teams in history, and they proved it right away early on when they teamed up together a year ago. Due to Xplode’s retirement, the team up was cut short.. Until tonight.

Long: Oh give me a break! Both of these men have no hope in hell of defeating the Las Vegas Commission! Luck and Markinson live for these moments. They are the definition of what a true team really is!

Gibson: I have personally seen Jack Bull defy the odds plenty of times. Xplode’s career has been the stuff of legends as well. This match is sure to not disappoint. Let’s get to ringside where John Walt awaits the sound of the bell!

The feed switches to the ring where John Walt is shown smiling. A microphone slowly lowers from the arena rooftop. With the crowd cheering behind him, he turns to face the viewer and begins to speak.

Walt: The following match will be a tag team affair! Coming to the ring first, Mister Luck and Dave Markinson.. The Las Vegas Commission!!

The opening of "Money" begins to play, through the harsh techno opening as well as the first verse. As they play, the lights remain on, and the curtain at the top of the stage is thrown aside as Dave walks onto the stage, wearing a black suit and sunglasses, hands clasped over his lap. Beside him walks Zack, walking a white suit with a pink dress shirt and white tie, carrying a clipboard under his right arm. At 0:55, when the guitar and drums play at the chorus, Mr. Luck, wearing a sapphire-blue blazer, white dress shirt and black tie over his tights, walks onto the stage to a chorus of boos and the occasional cheer. He raises his arms, giving a sarcastic, uncaring wave to the fans as all three men head down the ramp. Midway down the ramp, Luck pulls out a handful of dollar bills from his blazer pocket, going to hand a fan them but quickly pulls his hand back, flipping the bird at the fan and waving him aside. A chorus of venomous boos pierces the air as they reach the bottom of the ramp. Luck walks over to the fans barricade, holding out the wad of money, but as a young fan goes to grab it, he quickly pulls it back, shaking his head. Dave follows closely behind Luck as both men walk around the entire length of the ring, ignoring the fans.

Zack eventually jumps onto the apron, sitting on the middle rope and hoisting it open for the LVC. Dave and Luck walk up the steps and across the apron in single-file, climbing into the ring calmly as they ignore the parade of boos and jeers. Zack walks across the apron, standing in their corner on the apron as Dave takes off his sunglasses and pulls back his arm, as if he's going to throw them to the fans, but simply drops them to the floor and kicks them to his corner, taking off his suit. Luck himself climbs onto the turnbuckle in his corner, clapping his hands and egging the fans on to boo him before he hops down, taking off his blazer and shirt as Dave joins him in the corner, all three men discussing tactics as they wait for their opponents.

Long: Look at those two men. They have no fear and are willing to stand up to the tyranny inside the Asylum! We are that much better for being able to witness this display of excellence!

Gibson: There is no denying their talent, I will give you that.

Long: Let’s also not forget that Mister Luck has a guaranteed shot at the World Title at Prestige?

Gibson: Of course! If he even makes it there..

The fans continue to cheer now as Dave Markinson adjusts his elbow pad. The light slowly dim down now, causing the fans to stand up and cheer loudly in anticipation of what is to come.

Walt: Now, heading to the ring.. Jack Bull and Xplode… the Chaos Theory!!!

Fireworks explode from the stage area as the fans scream like crazy! “Spitfire” by Prodigy begins to play it’s opening riff as Jack Bull appears on the stage area! The fans scream like crazy as the titantron behind him flashes the names “BULL” and then “X”! Stepping out to the end of the stage area, Bull cups his ear to rouse the fans to cheer and then he nods his head in approval. A larger explosion goes off behind him now as the arena lights dim to a crimson red! The fans know what is next.

As they scream in delight, “The Enemy” by Godsmack begins to play as Xplode steps out unto the stage! He stops in the center of the stage as a wind machine blows up from the metal plating, causing his hair to whip behind him! He then stares down into it and then up at Jack who is motioning for him to get moving! With the fans screaming still, both men head down the ramp way, with Jack entering the ring first! He ascends a turnbuckle and stares out at the sea of fans! Xplode stands on the ring curtain, pointing out at the fans around him as fireworks go off from the back of the ring! Both men then enter the ring as the music dies down.

Gibson: Now THAT is an intro!

Long: No, that was an entirely too drawn out spectacle. They should be ashamed of themselves..

Jack Bull and Xplode are shown in their corners as Dave prepares on his side of the ring. After a bit of discussion, Xplode points at Dave and begins to laugh as Jack shakes his head and exit’s the ring. The bell is now rung..

Both Xplode and Dave circle the ring now, each one sizing up the other. Finally, they both spring forward, with Xplode starting things off by sliding Dave into a side headlock! After a bit of patting, Dave slides free and reverse the move into an arm wrench! Xplode grunts as he slowly walks forward, his arm held behind his back. He then yanks his elbow backward, nailing Dave in the eye! Dave releases his grip and reaches out to grab Xplode, only to be poked in the eye with a gouge next! Xplode then drops to one knee and raises a stiff fist, hitting Dave in the groin!

Long: Look at this cheater in the ring! Come on, ref! Stop this crap!

Gibson: It’s called ring experience, Sidney. Xplode knows what he is doing out there.

The ref warns Xplode as he is shown laughing. As Dave finally shakes off the pain, Xplode grabs him by the shoulder. It is Dave who counters this time, backhanding Xplode in the face! Dave then rushes to the ropes and uses them for momentum, running back.. Right into a devastating spine buster from the Strategic Assassin! Dave lands flat on his back with arms laid out as Xplode hooks the leg for the pin!

1..
Dave kicks out!

Sitting up, Xplode grabs Dave by the head and hits him right in the forehead! The ref warns Xplode one more time but he is ignored as Xplode brings Dave to his feet. Still holding the head, Xplode backs him into a corner as he tags in Jack Bull! The crowd cheers as Bull enters the ring now, fired up and ready to go! Kicking Dave in the gut, Bull assumes control as Xplode exit’s the ring. Bull then scoops up Dave and spins in a circle, only to fall back with a seated backbreaker! The fans cheer once again!

Gibson: Great team work from Chaos Theory tonight. I love it.

Long: It is only the beginning..

Kicking back up to his feet, Bull grabs the leg of Dave, twists it, and then drops hard upon it with a stiff elbow! Dave grunts on pain as Bull wrenches his ankle now! Having seen enough, Luck enters the ring in a hurry but is stopped quickly by the referee! Xplode takes advantage of this by hopping over the top rope and dropping an elbow upon the neck of Markinson now! He then rolls out of the ring before the ref is any the wiser!

Long: BLATENT CHEATING! COME ON!!

Jack Bull, laughing now, picks up Dave and scoops him up for a body slam only to be batted away! Dave then spins him around and applies a back headlock, only to drop to the mat hard with a reverse face buster! Jack Bull is now taken off his guard as Dave rolls away. He then picks up the former Pure Champion, dragging him to his corner to tag in Mister Luck! Luck enters to a sea of boos now as he unleashes a hail of chops and kicks to Bull’s midsection! As Bull flails his arms backward with each strike, Luck does not hold back one bit.

Luck grabs Bull now, Irish Whipping him to the ropes! Bull bounces off the ropes only to be nailed by the “Boot of the West”! Bull tumbles to the mat hard as Luck covers for the pin!

1...
2.

Xplode begins to head into the ring but finds his leg grabbed by Zack Cornell! Xplode kicks at Zack to break up the grasp, in the ring though Bull managed to kick out anyway at the two count! Xplode is shown arguing with the ref about Zack’s interference as Dave enters the ring. The LVC team up now and double Irish Whip Bull to the ropes, performing a double clothesline as he returns to center ring! Dave rushes out of the ring now as Xplode begins to point in his direction!

Long: Excellent teamwork is what you called it I believe? I told you that the LVC were far from done..

Gibson: Jack Bull has found himself in a bad spot now as the LVC attack him viciously. Jackie has been in this spot many times before though. Can he rebound from this? Can he tag in the now extended hand of his partner.. Xplode?!

Luck walks over to the ropes and flips off the crowd, laughing as he mocks them with gestures of fake tears! Zack Cornell is smiling at ringside as Dave leans forward to whisper something in his ear! Picking up Jack by his head, Luck revels in the moment until Jack suddenly slaps his hands away! He then grabs his head and drops him to the mat with a thunderous DDT! The fans scream heavily yas both men are now on the mat, breathing heavy!

Xplode begins to get the crowd behind the team as he smacks the turnbuckle repeatedly. Zack Cornell rushes to Luck at ringside, yelling for him to wake up and get back in the fight! Surprisingly, it is Jack Bull who moves first! Rolling over to his side, he stares up at the fans, his eyes glossed over! Luck rolls over now, as both men slowly get to their feet! Jack lashes out at Luck with an uppercut and Luck returns fire with a heavy chop! Jack uses a overhead punch now and Luck backhand chops Bull! Both men are now on their feet as the crowd roars to life! Luck finally gets the upper hand, kicking Bull in the gut! Luck backs up now to play to the crowd when out of no where, Bull spears Luck to the mat hard!

Gibson: BULL HAS THE HEART OF A FIGHTER!

Now on his belly, Jack begins to crawl towards Xplode! Xplode is literally leaning over the top rope awaiting the tag! Zack Cornell reaches into the ring and nudges Luck, helping him to wake up yet again and head towards Jack Bull! Jack reaches out..

Luck dives out at Jack…

Jack slaps Xplode’s hand!!

The fans scream as Xplode rushes into the ring, taking the head off of Luck with a huge clothesline! Dave rushes into the ring after, only to be scooped up and laid out with a spine buster by Xplode! Xplode literally begins to clean house as Luck rushes to his feet only to be scooped up and flung into the air with a swinging power slam from Xplode!

At ringside, Zack Cornell is shown pulling something out of his back pocket however..

Gibson: Xplode is on fire!

Luck is reeling, holding his head. Xplode approaches him, and lifts him to his feet. Dragging him to a corner, Xplode drives his elbow into Luck’s face, then a chop to his neck.. And then lifts him up, only to spin around and drop him with an inverted power bomb! The fans are going crazy now!

Gibson: This could be it!

Xplode picks up Luck and signals for the Drop Zone! He slides Luck into place, only to side step as Dave rushes into the ring once more with a packed fist! Jack Bull rushes into the ring now as all hell breaks loose!! Shooting at Dave with a shoulder tackle, Jack levels Dave to the mat! Xplode scoops up an incoming Luck, carrying him on his shoulder a brief moment before driving him into the mat with a gorilla slam! The fans are really into it now as Xplode picks up Luck once more! At ringside, Zack rushes to Dave and slides something into his hand! Bull reaches down to grab Dave…

Bull is then punched right between the eyes with what looks to be brass knuckles!!

Xplode hooks the arms, obvious to what has taken place! He drives Luck into the mat with the Drop Zone! Dave hooks the leg of Bull across the ring as the ref slides down for the pin count! Xplode covers as well, confused as to what the referee is doing!!

1...
2.….

Gibson: The referee has no idea who is the legal man!! HE is counting the wrong person out!

THREE!!

Xplode hops up, his arms raised in victory! The fans cheer until Xplode looks to his right, only to notice Dave Markinson having his arm raised in victory!

Long: Justice prevails!!

Gibson: Wait.. He is not the legal man!! Chaos Theory won this!

The Las Vegas Commission’s theme song begins to play now loudly as Zack Cornel rolls Luck out of the ring! Dave follows suit and the trio celebrate and point in Xplode’s direction! The fans boo loudly as Xplode shoves the referee and then glances in their direction.

Walt: Your winners… The Las Vegas Commission!!

Jack Bull finally begins to stir, shaking his head groggily. Xplode leans on the ropes, as he stares out at the winners of the match. The scene slowly.. Fades out.

[primetime]

Brett Cross is shown backstage, stood alone in his locker room, holding the Lionheart championship in his hands. He leans in, noticing some kind of imperfection and pulls at his cloak to wipe it, the belt glinting in the light as Cross nods approvingly. He stands up and turns to face the camera, as his face contorts into a grimace.

Cross: And what do you want from the mighty Cross, laddie? You know well enough not to be comin’ near to my locker room.

Mark Rivera steps into the room, smiling smugly as he glances around at Cross’ belongings before turning to face the Viking himself.

Rivera: You misunderstand me, Brett, this isn’t about what I want… It’s about what you want.

Cross: …

Rivera: Hm, Brett, surely you don’t still bear a grudge?

Cross responds with a snort, and glowers at Rivera, leaning forwards and intimidating the far smaller man.

Cross: You will never be the man that Kirk Kennedy was.

Rivera: Come now, Brett, you’ve got to look beyond the obvious here. I am a man of my word, surely you can respect that?

Cross doesn’t respond, but his glare seems to intensify.

Rivera: When I took over, I promised a new start for everyone. A clean slate, and a new chance to succeed and you, Mighty Cross, you have taken that chance with both hands. Look at you, you’re the Asylum’s first every Lionheart Champion!

Rivera smiles and nods towards the belt, Cross turning to look at it, before his gaze reverts to Rivera.

Rivera: Brett, I’m not a stupid man. I can see the ability you have, I can see that you, more than anyone, have the ruthlessness and the desire to be a champion… A leader… A veritable God! And more than that, Brett, unlike Jack Bull, or… Danny Tenfold… You have the skills to back up that desire, too.

Cross nods, almost as if agreeing with Rivera.

Rivera: In truth, who can stand up to the might of Brett Cross? Cross himself, who denied TITAN the world title, the man that fought through the best in my Empire to go one on one with the monster himself. And let me tell you, Brett, had things been different, I am sure you would have won. TITAN may fear no man, but he’s done a good job of keeping out of your path since his return, right? What does it say that TITAN would rather face Chris Sabora, than you? I think it speaks of the man’s fear for a noble warrior as yourself.

Cross: …You raise a fair point, many men would consider it wise to stay out of the range of mine and my hammer.

Rivera: And with good cause, too! You are a man to be respected! More than a man, Cross, you are a Champion! A… Hero!

Cross: Aye, ‘tis nothing short of the truth.

Rivera: Frankly, Brett, I find it strange that more people don’t show you the respect that you deserve. Some people are like annoying gnats, that won’t go away… You know who I mean, don’t you?

Cross: The lad? Tenfold?

Rivera: The very one. He seems to consider himself to be your equal, Brett. Don’t you get it? He thinks he stands amongst Valhalla’s greatest! Surely you can’t allow such blasphemy to continue? That a boy like Tenfold considers himself to be equal to a God like you… Surely you cannot allow such nonsense to continue?

Cross: The lad be barely strong enough to carry my shield, let alone fight amongst the champions of Asgaard!

Rivera: And yet, he thinks he can. Why don’t you remind him, and anyone else that would dare to besmirch your good name, of what the Bifrost Brawler is truly capable of? Once such annoyances as Tenfold are gone, then you and I can look to your future. I know that you’ve got your eyes on more than just that Lionheart title, Brett, but you can’t go for the greatest prize if you have someone like Tenfold dragging you down with him.

Cross narrows his eyes, his cheeks flushing red and his muscles bulging.

Cross: I would be a fool to trust a snake as yourself, Rivera, but there is some sense to what you say. For too long has the legend of Brett Cross been slowed by such men as Tenfold. If he wants to test his strength against the God of Midgaard, then so be it, he shall see exactly what a real Champion can do!

Cross roars loudly, stomping out of the room and down the corridor, leaving Rivera stood alone in the locker room. He claps his hands together and grins sadistically.

Rivera: Sometimes, it’s just too easy…

**

Gibson: It’s been a hell of a night so far, hasn’t it!

Long: Yes it has! You know, with Scars and Stripes almost here, I am starting to get excited about the Royal Rumble! The winner of that match could be the next World Champion!

Gibson: Indeed! The winner will receive a place in the main event at our flagship ppv… Prestige! History will be made. With all of the..

Explosions rock the stage area! “Nightmare” by Avenged Sevenfold begins to play as fog rolls out!

Gibson: Oh noooooooooo! HE IS HERE!!

The fans stand up and lose control with cheers as men aboard dark motorcycles drive out to the ring and circle it in a straight line! With the arena literally shaking in acceptance, the bikers stop and turn to face the stage area… where Oblivion is shown parked!

Gibson: OBLIVION IS HERE!! THE BIG DOG HAS ARRIVED!

Long: Calm down already.

Sitting on the bike behind Oblivion is Skye. She smiles at the fans as Oblivion slowly drives down the ramp way and comes to a stop at the bottom. He then dismounts and helps Skye to her feet. The both of them then enter the ring as camera flashes ignite all around them. Wasting no time, Oblivion snatches the microphone out of John Walt’s hand and begins to speak.

Oblivion: Alright, pipe down a moment. I got some things to say!

The fans cheer once more as Skye smiles brightly. She nods her head as the fans begin to chant.. “SKYE SKYE SKYE!” Looking out at the fans, Oblivion then slowly turns to glare at John Walt..

Oblivion: If I were you.. John.. I would get the hell out of my face. You see, you took my girl’s job. It would be unfortunate if you were injured doing it.

Walt scurries out of the ring as the fans cheer!

Oblivion: Alright. Now, for the last few months, I have been going back and forth with those LVC bitches to the point that my head now hurts thinking about it. They have kidnapped my step mom, assaulted my father, and even tried getting at my brother. I am done with it. This is between me.. And Luck. It’s time to settle this. So, Luck… bring your ass out here! Be a man and face me..

The fans cheer as Luck slowly steps through the entrance. He cautiously makes his way down the ramp way.

Oblivion: Come on, boy! I don’t have all day! If you are worried about those men around the ring, don’t be. They won’t lay a finger on you unless I give them the word. They are just a little insurance policy if you decide to bring in the cavalry. I am the one that you should be worried about.

Luck slowly steps through the ropes and accepts a microphone.

Oblivion: Now, we have ourselves a little date it seems at Scars and Stripes. I want you to know, for the shit that you have pulled.. You are a dead man. The thing is, even that doesn’t seem like enough to me. So, I felt it fair to have a word with you and really show you what is at stake here.

Luck: WHAT?! OH MIGHTY OBLIVION! What can you possibly do to me? I have proved you to be mortal, and dismantled your mystical illusion. You can’t touch me.

Oblivion: That.. Is where you are wrong.

The fans cheer once again as the video screen blazes to life. Luck’s manager, Zack Cornel, is shown bound and gagged on the screen! Standing beside him is Cole Ritter!

Ritter: How you doing there, Luck! It seems that the tables have turned, friend! Eye for an eye… a life for a life. The things that you did to my wife are unspeakable, so I felt it was only fair to return the favor in kind if you catch my drift.

Cole then removes a 9 mm pistol from his leather vest, and places it against the head of Zack!

Gibson: Wait.. This is going way too far! Oblivion, stop this! Don’t lower yourself to his level!

The fans cheer now as Luck is shown losing his cool in the ring.

Oblivion: Now, Cole. Remember our agreement. You leave that man alone until Scars and Stripes.

Ritter: Yeah.. I remember.

Luck: WHAT DO YOU WANT?!

The fans scream with approval!

Oblivion: I want.. A straight up fight. No bullshit games.. Nothing. I want everyone barred from ringside. This is between you and me and it will stay that way.. Or Cole there may stop listening to me if you see what I mean? Oh, and I want a special referee. That would be… Xplode.

The fans scream once again as Luck stomps his feet in fury!

Luck: FINE!! I accept. Oblivion.. When next we meet, your legacy will be at an end. You have no idea how deep this rabbit hole goes.

Oblivion: Trust me. After you feel the fires of Hell, nothing else really puts a scare into you.

The fans cheer loudly now as the both men glare at one another.

Gibson: You heard it. Luck vs. Oblivion at Scars and Stripes!! Everyone is banned from ringside and to top it off, Xplode will be the special referee!

Long: Sounds like an Oblivion match to me. The odds are always in his favor.

Gibson: Wait. I wonder what Luck meant by “how deep this rabbit hole goes”? We will be back with the main event!

The scene slowly fades out.

[primetime]

Main Event
Asylum Lionheart Championship
Standard Rules
Brett Cross (c) vs Bane

Gibson: It’s finally time for our Main Event, ladies and gentlemen, as we see the rising star Bane finally get the shot at the big time as he takes on the monstrous Brett Cross for the newly-formed Asylum Lionheart Championship!

Long: What an exciting match! Bane doesn’t stand a chance, but maybe he will be able to provide some semblance of a challenge to the Bifrost Brawler, the Assassin of Asgaard, the Midgard Mauler, the Heavy Hitter of Hel, the—

Gibson: We get the picture, Long. Cross is one giant of a man, but Bane matches up pretty well.

“Feel Like I Do” by Drowning Pool hits the sound system as Illidan Bane throws the curtain to one side, motioning around his waist and making his intentions for tonight clear: To take the Lionheart Championship. The crowd roar their cheers loudly as Bane nods his head, looking left and right at the packed crowd before cracking his knuckles and heading down the ramp, nodding at the cheering fans.

Walt: From Florida, weighing in at two hundred and forty pounds…ILLIDAN! BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAANE!!!!!!!!!!!

Bane hops up onto the ring apron and climbs into the ring, turning towards the lower-left turnbuckle and climbing on it, raising his hands and pointing at his waist before pointing at the ramp, hopping down and walking into the opposite corner. “Feel Like I Do” fades out, and is instantly replaced by “Hermods Ride To Hel” by Amon Amarth, causing pyros to erupt over the entrance way and cause a shower of golden sparks to flow over the stage. Cross makes his way out, Lionheart Championship around his waist. As the drums kick in, some of the crowd stomp their feet in unison, while some jeer Cross as he makes his way down the ramp, focusing intently on the ring and not the mixed reaction.

Walt: Standing at six feet and ten inches, weighing in at three hundred and thirty six pounds…He is the Bifrost Brawler, The Norse Hammer, The Asylum Lionheart Champion…BRETT!! CRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!

Cross jogs up the steel ring steps and onto the apron, stepping effortlessly over the top rope and extending his arms wide in the middle of the ring in the symbol of a cross before removing the Hammer Mjollnir from around his neck, turning to face Bane and kissing it before walking backwards and draping it over his corner. His focus does not shift from Bane as he slips off his trenchcoat, throwing it over the top rope and into the hands of a Staff member before unbuckling his belt, holding it high above his head. The referee jogs over, holding out his hands. Cross kisses the center plate of the belt, handing it to the referee as “Hermods Ride to Hel” fades out.

The referee stands in the middle of the ring, raising the belt high to show the fans the prize of tonights competition.

Gibson: That’s what it’s all about tonight, folks. The Lionheart Championship.

DING DING DING!

Bane doesn’t waste any time, instead rushing forward out of his corner and locking Cross instantly in a forearm tie-up in his own corner. Cross simply stands there, unphased as Bane jostles with him. Cross steps forward, forcing Bane backwards, but Bane somehow found the strength to force Cross backwards into the turnbuckle. With Cross momentarily subdued, Bane throws Cross’s arms down, lunging in and slamming an elbow into the jaw of Cross, causing the fans to cheer loudly! Cross clutches his jaw, allowing Bane to take a few steps backwards and charge forward, slamming Cross backwards into the turnbuckle with a hard Clothesline! Bane drags the dazed Cross out, but Cross quickly slams his palms into Banes chest, shoving him backwards. Bane charges forward, but Cross steps forward, leaning down and throwing Bane over his shoulder with a quick Back Body Drop which sends the large Bane thundering down into the mat. Cross turns around, rubbing his jaw angrily and leans down, grabbing Bane by his throat and pulling him roughly to his feet. Bane tries to force Cross backwards, but Cross simply wraps an arm around Banes neck, hauling him up with a Vertical Suplex and leaving him hanging there. Banes legs flail wildly, but it doesn’t stop Cross falling backwards, slamming Bane roughly into the mat before rolling over to him and quickly hooking his leg.

1….2-KICK OUT!

Bane quickly gets a shoulder up, forcing Cross to get to his feet. Cross takes a few steps back, watching as Bane uneasily gets to his feet, turning around and walking into a vicious shoulder-tackle from Bane which sends him back down onto the mat with a vicious crash. Cross dusts off his hands mockingly, getting to his feet once more and hauling Bane up too, turning him around to face him before turning around and running forward, rebounding off of the set of ropes behind him and charging forward, lifting his leg high into the air for a Big Boot. Bane snaps to, quickly running forward and ducking under the leg of Cross. Cross stumbles slightly, but regains his footing enough to rebound off the ropes just as Bane does parallel to him on the opposite side of the ring.

Both juggernauts hurtle towards eachother, arms outstretched, and slam into eachother with vicious Clotheslines. Neither man goes off their feet, but instead are left reeling from the impact. Bane stumbles against the opposite set of ropes, clutching onto the top one to remain standing, so Cross runs forward, looking for a clothesline. The constantly-learning Bane, however, ducks under Cross, pulling down the top rope and sending the Norse giant straight over the top rope and to the floor outside! The crowd cheer wildly as Bane stumbles back, looking down at Cross who is on all fours, shaking off the impact.

Gibson: Great resourcefulness from Bane!

Long: Some good work, but he wants to take the fight to Cross, not just recover.

Cross slides into the ring slowly, allowing Bane to rush forward and start delivering several stomps onto the upper back and neck of Cross. Cross slowly gets to his feet as Bane does, but Bane simply stops stomping and delivers a thunderous kick into the midsection of Cross, who reels slightly into the ropes. Bane does it a second time, but Cross remains against the ropes. Bane pulls his leg back, giving Cross a thunderous third kick into his abdomen which echoes throughout the arena. Cross doubles over in pain, allowing Bane to drag the giant backwards and wrench his neck, pulling back. Cross locks both arms around Bane, lifting him slightly and attempting a bearhug. Bane, thinking quickly, lifts his knee into Cross’s jaw before laying back fully horizontal to the mat, Banes size and strength simply forcing Cross’s head and neck to spike downwards into the mat! Cross hits the mat roughly, rolling onto his back from the impact as Bane goes for the cover.

1…..2..KICK OUT!

Cross thrusts a shoulder up. Bane quickly mounts Cross, delivering several punches down into the giants jaw and chin. Cross grasps Banes wrists, pulling him down roughly and thrusting his head up, headbutting him in the forehead and sending Bane reeling off of him. Cross scuttles backwards, pulling himself to his feet with the help of ropes as Bane gets to his feet. Cross rushes forward, delivering a thunderous punch into Banes abdomen, doubling him over before clasping his hands together, slamming them down into Banes upper back. Bane collapses onto his knees as Cross moves to his right-side, wrapping his arms around his abdomen and throwing him up before twisting him and slamming him roughly into the ground with a Gutwrench Powerbomb. Cross rolls backwards, leaving Bane splayed out on the mat before slowly walking to his side, looking down at Bane and sneering before leaping up and driving his elbow into Banes chest. Bane lunges up, choking wildly as the weight of Cross collapses on his chest.

Cross gets to his feet, looking down at Bane and shaking his head before kneeling beside, slamming a fist into his jaw and pressing his elbow into his mouth, shifting it up and slamming it down with some force. Bane coughs loudly, spitting out a small globule of blood before Cross raises his now blood-stained elbow again. As he brings it down, Bane quickly rolls to the left, forcing Cross’s elbow into the mat. Bane stumbles to his feet, clasping the right-hand set of ropes. Cross storms up to his feet, charging Bane. Bane sidesteps, sending Cross into the ropes before running forward, slamming his fist into Cross’s kidney. The blow causes some considerable pain as Cross winces, stumbling around before Bane places his hands on Cross’s neck, forcefully turning him and pushing him back-first against the ropes, taking a few steps back and delivering a thunderous Clothesline into Cross’s back. Cross leans on the top rope slightly, but doesn’t go over. Bane turns around, darting forward and rebounding off the opposite set of ropes before hurtling towards Cross, letting loose a loud war cry before jumping slightly, sending his entire force into Cross’s neck and upper-chest with a thunderous clothesline, sending both men clean over the top rope and to the outside!

Gibson: GOOD GOD ALMIGHTY! Did you just see that?!

Long: I’ve rarely seen Cross leave his feet unless he’s delivering a move! A stroke of luck for Bane here!

Gibson: LUCK?! Luck has nothing to do with it, Long! This kid just damn near took Cross’s head off! Not many people can even THINK of doing that!

Both men remain on the outside. Bane uses the momentum he had going to pull himself up first, stumbling against the crowd barrier and grasping it to keep himself stable as several of the ringside fans cheer, patting his back encouragingly. Bane grabs the knotted beard of Cross, pulling him under his right arm roughly before trying to lift him for a suplex. He barely lifts him before setting him down on his feet, choosing to wrap his arms around his waist, lift him a few inches and slam his back onto the floor with a small Spinebuster, the giant Cross still not weakened enough for Bane to deliver a power move. Bane carefully watches Cross as he stirs on the floor, rolling on his stomach and slowly getting onto all fours, something that allows Bane to slam his foot roughly up into Cross’s stomach, sending him rolling to the foot of the crowd barrier. Bane walks over to Cross, grasping his beard once more and pulling him up as several fans get on their feet, patting Bane on the upper back to show their support for the challenger.

Bane pulls roughly on the beard of Cross, rolling him into the ring and dusting off his hands, sliding in after the giant. Cross manages to get up onto one knee, but not before Bane locks in a side headlock to keep Cross subdued before moving around to face Cross, keeping the headlock locked in and driving his head down into the mat with a Spike DDT. Cross rolls forward onto his back, allowing Bane to quickly force Cross’s shoulders into the mat.

1….2…KICK OUT!

Cross still manages to thrust a shoulder up. Bane slowly gets to his feet with his hands on his hips, watching as Cross rolls onto his stomach and gets onto one knee. Bane walks forward, locking his arm around Cross’s neck, lifting him a second time. Once again, Bane cannot execute the suplex, as Cross simply lands down on his feet, locking both arms around Banes waist and throwing him over his shoulder with a Back Body Drop. Bane hits the mat, and Cross turns around, pulling Bane up to his feet with his back facing Cross. Cross locks in a Full Nelson, wrenching slightly before throwing Bane into the air and slamming him down with a rough Full Nelson slam, allowing Cross to take a few steps back and catch his breath.

Bane slowly rises to one knee and, as he gets to his feet, Cross moves forward, slamming both his forearms into the sides of Bane. Bane stumbles slightly, winded, but Cross moves forward, locking both his arms around Bane and clasping his hands together, locking in a bearhug. Cross begins to squeeze tightly on the hold, tightening his arms around Banes side and abdomen, forcing the breath out of him. Bane struggles violently against the grip of Cross as the referee moves over, asking Bane if he wants to quit. Bane replies a simple, yet strained ‘No!’, locking both his hands on Cross’s large shoulders and pushing down on them, simply moving Cross’s hold down his abdomen by mere centimetres as the grip tightens even more.

Before Cross can force Bane to submit, he initiates a desperate counter-attack, clapping his forearms repeatedly into either side of Cross’s head and into his ears. Cross barely feels it, instead keeping the vice-like hold tight. Bane refuses to give in, repeatedly hitting his forearms over his ears. After a few repeated blows, Cross’s grip weakens, the repeated blows beginning to make him somewhat groggy. The slight release of the Bearhug allows Bane to lunge his head downwards, cracking his forehead against the top of Cross’s thick skull. Both in surprise and pain, Cross releases the hold, stumbling backwards against the ropes. Bane moves in, slamming his fists into Cross’s chest before hitting a swift right hand into Cross’s jaw, shortly before headbutting Cross in the chin. Cross is left reeling from the surprise onslaught, and can barely defend himself as Bane drags him backwards, once again going for a Suplex. Holding him in position, Bane lifts Cross slightly, only for Cross to land back on his feet. Bane lets out a loud, groaning cry, arching his back and slamming his feet into the ground to put as much power as he can into the Suplex. The crowd get on their feet and go ballistic as Bane lifts the three hundred-plus pounder into the air! Banes legs buckle slightly, but he manages to fall backwards, nailing Cross with the suplex which causes the ring to buckle and shake violently!

Gibson: This kids going to go the distance, Long!

Long: He suplexed Cross. Guess what, Gibson? Cross is far from out. One suplex just won’t put down the Norse Hammer.

Gibson: Don’t you get it, Long? Bane just suplexed Cross. Not many people have done that. Bane is damn well matched with Cross here, and we may be just looking at Bane rising through the ranks in a heartbeat!

Long: I have my reservations.

Bane sits up, clutching his lower back and looking down at the fallen Cross. He lets out a deep breath, rolling to the side and mounting Cross, bringing down a quick few right hands into the jaw of Cross before moving off of him and getting to his feet, grasping Cross’s hair and pulling him up before moving to his side, wrapping his right arm around him. Bane attempts to lift Cross for a backbreaker, but Cross barely moves, a mistake which proves costly as Cross brings his left elbow down into Banes upper back. Bane moves away from Cross, darting forward for a Clothesline which Cross simply takes, Banes arm pounding uselessly off of Cross’s thick chest. Before Bane can move away, Cross wraps both his hands around Banes neck, effortlessly lifting him before planting him into the mat with a swift Two-Handed Chokeslam.

Cross moves over to Bane, locking his hands on Banes neck once more and dragging him roughly to his feet, marching him forcefully over to the lower-left corner of the ring and lifting him onto the second rope, climbing onto the bottom rope before hoisting Bane to the top rope, still not removing his hands as he climbs to the second rope. Stretching his large arms with his legs starting to buckle, Cross lifts Bane into the air, looking down at the steel steps below.

Gibson: He wouldn’t! That’ll kill Bane!

Long: We better get under this table, cause I have a feeling we’re about to be hit with an earthquake!

Bane manages to force himself down to a standing position on the top rope. Cross climbs up with him, tightening his grip on his neck and effectively throttling Bane. The move proves costly though, as Bane regains some sense of stability and begins to deliver several swift open-handed slaps into Cross’s elbows. Cross starts to shudder as Banes blows start to increase in intensity, forcing one of Cross’s hands to release the grip. Eventually, Bane manages to slam a palm into Cross’s chest, forcing him backwards. Cross quickly steps down from the top rope and to the mat to avoid any falls, but Bane quickly stands up straight, watching as Cross turns around to face the turnbuckle. He gives a deep breath and leaps off, catching Cross with a massive shoulder tackle from the top rope that sends both giants down!

Gibson: GOOD GOD! I’ve never seen Bane do anything like that!

Long: Desperate times call for desperate measures.

Bane quickly rolls Cross onto his back, pinning down his shoulders..

1….2…..KICK OUT!

Cross still manages to kick out relatively easily, forcing Bane to get to his feet. Grabbing Cross’s beard once more, he hauls him to his feet and quickly steps towards the ropes, pulling Cross over the top rope as he does. Cross barely clears it, instead resting his large frame over the top rope as his legs struggle violently while Bane steps through the middle rope and onto the apron. With Cross subdued, Bane forces him to roll onto his back, so his upper back is rested on the top rope with the set of ropes strained roughly, before wrapping an arm around his neck. Placing his other hand under Cross’s back, Bane forces Cross up with every ounce of strength left in him, barely lifting him into the air before falling backwards to the outside, still managing to drive Cross’s skull into the mats outside with a devastating, high-impact Inverted Brainbuster!

Gibson: …This kid is simply amazing me right here?

Long: An Inverted Brainbuster to the outside? On a guy like Cross? Is this kid insane? It’s not falls count anywhere, he should have done that in the ring where he could pin him!

Both men are now laid out on the outside. Cross is clutching the back of his neck in agony, while Bane simply lays splayed out on the mats as several fans cheer him on to get to his feet. Bane slowly pushes himself up as Cross gets to all fours, before Bane gets to his feet, turning to Cross and grabbing his hair, pulling him up. Cross responds by swinging his elbow back, catching him in the abdomen. Cross quickly loops his arm around Banes side, pulling himself to his feet before slamming Bane down with a quick Sidewalk Slam. Cross, now with momentum on his side, rolls to his feet and grabs Bane around his neck, pulling him up and underneath his right arm, leaning down and hooking Banes right leg before lifting him up, slamming Banes lower back down into the apron! Bane cries out in pain as Cross twists under Bane, rolling Bane onto his stomach on the edge of the apron before lifting him up a second time, falling backwards fully and driving the middle of Banes back into the guard rail, causing several of the fans to scuttle away to avoid Banes legs. Bane cries out in agony, laid out over the guard rail, before Cross takes a few steps away from Banes side and running forward, slamming his boot into the side of Banes head.

Bane collapses onto the mats before Cross leans down, pulling Bane to his feet and rolling him into the ring. Cross slides in as Bane gets on all fours, clasping his hands together for the Hammer Mjollnir..

Bane looks up and rushes to his feet but it is too late, as Cross nails the Hammer perfectly! Bane collapse in a heap as Cross plants a large boot on his chest for the pin..

1..
2.…
Three!

Walt: Your winner… and STILL the Asylum Lionheart Champion.. Brett Cross!

Cross remains in place as the title belt is handed to him. The fans cheer for a moment.. And then shift to boos? Cross doesn’t seen to care at all though as he accepts a microphone.

Cross: Nay! Your responses me nothing to Cross! What mortal man speaks does not affect me. This message is for the lad, Danny Tenfold. You have my attention, this be NOT a wise thing to have.

Cross then tosses the microphone and raises the title belt.. as the scene fades out.

[primetime]

“Come in..”

An office door swings open as Xplode is shown entering, shutting the door behind him. Seated before him at a desk is Mark Rivera. Rivera leans back, a cigar lit in his lips. Xplode strolls across the room and finds a seat upon a recliner, placing both of his shoes upon the desk of Mark Rivera. Rivera hides his disdain, and speaks plainly.

Rivera: I called you here for an answer.

Xplode: Of course you did. Now, get to it. I promised Jack to meet him at the bar in a few. He needs to work out some frustration due to your shoddy referees and their bad decisions.

Rivera: Oh yes. Jack and you came up on the losing end tonight. Funny how things work out.

Xplode: Right. Let’s cut the shit. You made that happen.

Rivera: I would do no such thing. Now, I believe that you have something for me?

Xplode laughs as he crosses his legs, kicking off a bit of soil from his shoes unto the desk.

Xplode: You bet your ass I do. I want something first in return. I told you that.

Rivera: Of course. We all do. You will have your match against him at Prestige. I just don’t understand the reasoning, really.

Xplode: You wouldn’t. You see, the REAL geniuses of the EUW always thought out their shit before putting things into action. I have been planning this for a year. So you can imagine the importance of it. When you go through with your end of the deal, I will return it in kind. Until then.. You wait.

Rivera: The same old, Xplode, I guess. Some people never change.

Xplode leans forward and snags the cigar out of Rivera’s mouth. He then takes a drag and leans back once again..

Xplode: Some people.. Don’t have to.

**