-------------------------------
SEGMENT
Word Limit: 2000
Participants: Brooklyn & April Madrox
No Rest For The Wicked - While Dean Harper prepares for Mai Everstone later in the night, The Madrox Sisters return to discuss how The Murder has faired so far and to lay out his next set of challenges.
-------------------------------
{The scene opens in a dimly lit room backstage, the tension is palpable. The familiar IWF backdrop looms behind two figures, April and Brooklyn Madrox, seated at a table with microphones in front of them. They are dressed in their signature dark gear, but the exhaustion and frustration are clear on their faces. The room is quiet, almost too quiet, save for the low hum of distant arena noises and the occasional creak of the floor. The sisters are alone, no fans, no Murder stablemates, just the two of them, about to address something that's been festering for weeks.}
Brooklyn Madrox: {leans forward, her voice cold, calculated, and laced with venom} So, here we are again. Another night, another fight. Another chance for us to try and take down Dean Harper.
April Madrox:{ nods, but thereâs something hollow in her eyes, something that speaks of betrayal and a sadness that cuts deeper than any blade} Itâs like no matter what we do, no matter how we plan, he always manages to slip through our fingers.
Brooklyn Madrox: {snarls} Yeah, and I'm sick of it. Iâm sick of him walking around like heâs untouchable. Like he can just betray us, betray me, and get away with it.
{Aprilâs gaze shifts, softening for a moment. The betrayal stings more for her because she was the one who vouched for Dean, the one who tried to mend fences, to make peace between them all. She was the one who convinced Brooklyn that Dean deserved another chance. Now? She was the one who felt the knife twist the hardest.}
April Madrox: {softly, almost as if sheâs talking to herself} I really thought⊠I really thought we could fix this, you know? I thought that if I just gave him the benefit of the doubt, if I pushed for it, we could be whole again. That maybe, somehow, we could get back to being a family.
{Brooklyn turns to her sister, her eyes sharp, but not unsympathetic. She knows this is hard for April, harder than it is for her even. But now isn't the time for softness. Now is the time for strategy, for ruthlessness.}
Brooklyn Madrox: {cutting in, voice sharper} April, youâve got to stop thinking like that. Dean isnât family anymore. He made his choice, and it wasnât us. It wasnât you. Weâre the ones left picking up the pieces, the ones trying to figure out what comes next while heâs out there, tearing everything down that we built. And whatâs worse? Heâs got us looking weak.
April Madrox: {quietly, fists clenching on the table} I know. I know, Brook. But it doesnât change the fact that we havenât been able to stop him.
{Thereâs a long pause as both sisters sit there, the weight of their words hanging in the air. The truth is bitter, and they canât deny it anymore. Despite their best efforts, Dean Harper has outmaneuvered them at every turn. Heâs proven time and time again that heâs a force to be reckoned with, even without the Murder at his side. But that doesnât mean theyâre giving up. Not by a long shot.}
Brooklyn Madrox: {leaning back in her chair, her eyes narrowing} Yeah, well, thatâs going to change. Tonight, heâs got Mai to worry about, but after that? After that, itâs just going to be us and him. No distractions. No excuses.
April Madrox: {tilting her head, a small flicker of hope in her voice} You think Mai can wear him down enough for us to capitalize?
Brooklyn Madrox: {smirking, but thereâs no real joy in it} She better. If nothing else, sheâll make him sweat. Sheâs not stupid. She knows what sheâs up against. But after that? Heâs ours. And this time, weâre not going to let him slip through our fingers.
{April exhales deeply, her hand running through her hair as she shakes her head. The strain of the last few weeks is evident in her every movement. The betrayals, the losses, the constant feeling that theyâre always a step behind Deanâitâs wearing her down. But sheâs not broken. Not yet.}
April Madrox: {her voice steadier now} We canât keep chasing him like this. We need to corner him. Force him to face us, on our terms.
Brooklyn Madrox: {grinning, a wicked gleam in her eyes} Oh, donât worry, sis. We will. You know what they sayâno rest for the wicked. And Dean? Heâs as wicked as they come.
{Brooklyn shifts in her seat, crossing her arms over her chest. Her body language screams of someone ready to strike, but there's something more beneath itâthere's a frustration, a weariness that even she can't fully shake. This has been going on for too long. Too many weeks, too many plans, and yet Dean Harper still stands.}
Brooklyn Madrox: {after a pause, her tone darkening} But Iâm done playing games with him. The time for talk is over. Heâs crossed every line, burned every bridge. Itâs about time we remind him who heâs really dealing with.
April Madrox: {nodding, her voice resolute} He thinks heâs invincible. He thinks heâs won just because he got one over on us. But he hasnât seen anything yet.
{The camera zooms in on April's face. The sadness, the betrayal, it's still there, but there's something else nowâa spark, a flicker of the fire thatâs been building inside her. Sheâs not just angry. Sheâs ready.}
April Madrox: {looking directly into the camera} Dean, I hope youâre ready for whatâs coming. Because when this is over, there wonât be any more excuses. No more running. No more hiding behind your schemes or your lies. Just you⊠and us.
{Brooklyn leans forward, her lips curling into a sinister smirk as she joins her sister in staring directly into the camera. Thereâs a unity in their expressions, a shared sense of purpose that hasnât been seen in weeks. Dean Harper might have torn them apart for a time, but now? Now theyâre stronger.}
Brooklyn Madrox: {her voice dripping with venom} You wanted this, Dean. You wanted to tear us apart, to make us doubt ourselves, to make us doubt each other. Well, congratulations. You did that. But what you didnât count on was what happens next. What you didnât count on was us coming back stronger, more focused, more dangerous than ever.
{The camera lingers on them both, capturing the intensity of their words. Brooklyn and April Madrox, once unsure, once divided, are now united in their goal: to destroy Dean Harper. The betrayal still stings, the wounds are still fresh, but theyâre not letting it define them anymore. Theyâre taking control of the situation, and theyâre going to make Dean pay.}
April Madrox: {softly, almost a whisper }No rest for the wicked, Dean. No rest for you.
{Brooklyn laughs darkly, her eyes glinting with malice as she stands from her chair, motioning for her sister to do the same. Together, they move toward the camera, the final words of their message clear in their body language. This isnât just a warning. Itâs a promise.}
Brooklyn Madrox: {deadly serious} Weâre coming for you, Dean. And this time? Thereâs nowhere to run.
{The camera slowly fades to black as the sisters walk away, leaving the audience with the unmistakable impression that this is far from over. The Murder might have been struggling, but theyâre not defeated. Not yet. And Dean Harper is about to find out just how dangerous a cornered Madrox can be.}
{End Scene.}
-------------------------------
SEGMENT
Robb arrives at Odyssey
-------------------------------
Iyo Kenshin: Welcome back to Odyssey!
Rayne: Next up we are going to here from some of the men involved in the three way war thatâs been going on here in IWF, Bryce de Jager!
Iyo Kenshin: Iâm getting word that heâs just arriving to the building!
{ We open on the inner halls of Palacio de los Deportes with Bryce de Jager arriving to the arena. We follow him for several moments as he greets the people he deems worthy of greeting and blows off those that are beneath him. Finally he arrives at his private locker room, he smiles at the name plate on the door before swinging it open and stepping inside. Bryce takes in a long, deep breath as the door slowly closes behind him revealing Rob Diamond. }
Rob: Remember when I said Iâd kick your ass later?
{ Bryce peers over his shoulder with a look of disappointment. }
Rob: I lied.
Bryce: God, youâre an idiot.
{ The two men promptly resume the brawl theyâd started a week ago in the razorwire death trap. Rob is laying in heavy right hands while Bryce is going for the rabid body shots. Rob takes Bryce by the head and throws him into the full length dressing mirror, shattering it completely. }
Rob: How do you like them apples!?
{ Bryce picks up one of the jagged pieces of mirror and charges at Rob. }
Rob: Oh, I donât like them apples!
{ Rob tries to block the downward slash and takes a deep gash on his arm for the effort. Rob retaliates with a knee lift to the gut that dislodges the weapon from Bryceâs hand. Bryce fires right back with a huge body tackle that sends both men crashing through the locker room door and out into the hall way. Bryce goes for the mount and starts raining down punches on Rob Diamond. Both men look like ground beef after weeks of beating the hell out of each other so the blood is already flowing pretty profusely. }
Bryce: What? Nothing funny to say now!
Rob: Look out!
Bryce: What!?
{ Bryce follows the line that Robâs index finger creates to see nothing behind him. When Bryce turns back he is welcomed with a finger poke to the eyes! Rob throws Bryce off him and proceeds to continue the fist fight. Bryce is swinging blindly but Rob is hitting with precision as the two men move further down the hall way. Rob turns and grabs the camera from the camera man. }
Rob: Donât turn that dial! Weâll be right back after a quick from our sponsors!
{ Rob then drills Bryce in the face with the lens of the camera causing it to crack and get staticy. Rob drops the camera on the ground as the two men continue fighting away. One big black boot steps in front of the lens, blocking our view before going black. }
-------------------------------
[/span][/div]
SINGLES MATCH
Thunder Sid vs Natasha Walker
-------------------------------
The bell rings, and Sid charges at Natasha, arms flailing as if heâs ready to take her down with pure enthusiasm. Natasha dodges effortlessly, performing a no-hand cartwheel evasion, her grace and flexibility on full display. Thunder Sid stumbles, confused by her quickness.
Sid tries to recover, going for a wild punch, but Natasha smoothly bends backward, executing a Matrix bend evasion that leaves the audience gasping. Sidâs punch sails through thin air as Natasha pops back up, this time connecting with a sharp back elbow that cracks Sid right in the jaw, staggering him.
Natasha doesn't waste any time, quickly whipping Sid into the ropes and catching him on the rebound with a crisp arm drag, sending him crashing to the mat. Sid rolls to his knees, holding his back, but Natasha is already in motion. She sprints toward him, delivering a brutal shotgun dropkick that launches Sid into the corner.
Sidâs body slumps in the turnbuckle, and Natasha measures her next move. She runs at full speed, performing a flawless cartwheel back elbow in the corner, smashing into Sid with full force. He crumbles out of the corner, completely overwhelmed.
The crowd roars as Natasha steps onto the apron, a gleam of excitement in her eyes. She climbs the ropes in one swift motion and launches into a spectacular springboard moonsault, landing flush on Sidâs midsection with a sickening thud. The wind is knocked out of him, and Sid rolls onto his stomach in pain, gasping for air.
Natasha, however, is relentless. She quickly grabs Sidâs leg, rolling him into a smooth single-leg Boston Crab, cranking back on the pressure as Sid cries out in agony, desperately slapping the mat. Natashaâs flexibility and technique shine through as she holds the submission with perfect form.
But instead of finishing the match there, Natasha releases the hold, wanting to make a statement. She signals to the crowd, who cheer louder as she sets Sid up for something big. She pulls him to his feet, hooks him into a fisherman suplex position, and with a powerful burst, she lifts Sid into the air, transitioning the move into her finisherâthe TsuchiGumo. She slams Sid down into a sitout spinebuster, the impact shaking the ring.
1âŠ
2âŠ
3!
The ref counts the pinfall, and itâs over in an instant. Natasha Walker stands victorious, her hand raised as Thunder Sid lies motionless on the mat. The crowd gives her a loud cheer as she takes a moment to bask in her decisive victory.
Winner: Natasha Walker (by pinfall)
-------------------------------
SEGMENT
Word Limit: 2000
Participants: Tytus Rost and Randon Haynes
Randon makes his feelings clear to Tytus about his expected conduct on this weeks show.
-------------------------------
{The IWF cameras go backstage, inside the office of Odyssey General Manager Randon Haynes, who is seated at his desk, quickly scribbling his signature on a series of documents. After every signature, he flips a paper, until they're all signed and facedown in a messy pile. Gathering the papers, he begins to tap their bottom edge on the desk to reorganize them into a neatly placed grouping. Suddenly, a heavy, rhythmic knock, three times fast on his door catches his ear.}
Randon Haynes: Come in!
{Having already arranged to meet with Tytus Rost to discuss his temporary partnership with Serenity Holmes later in the evening, it comes as little shock when Haynes lays eyes on the walking mountain entering the room. Rost closes the door behind him as Haynes secures the documents safely in the bottom drawer of his desk. Without looking directly at Tytus for too long, Haynes motions toward the chair on the other side of his desk.}
Randon Haynes: Well, if it isnât the Russian Lion himself. Mr. Rost, please, sit.
{Rost crosses the room in two steps, his frame filling far more of the small office than should be allowed, but Haynes doesnât let himself seem bothered nor intimidated.}
Tytus Rost: Is bear now.
Randon Haynes: WhâŠwhat is bear now?
Tytus Rost: No more lion, Madjinn was correct and so I have changed this nickname.
{Randon looks at the two catcher mitts that Tytus calls hands and does his best to stifle whatever snarky comment popped into his head.}
Randon Haynes: Well then, Mr. Lions, Tigers, and Bears letâs get to the point at hand then shall we?
Tytus Rost: Just bear ⊠Russian Bear.
Randon Haynes: Yes, I was just âŠ
Tytus Rost: No lions or tigers, did you not hear me before?
{Haynes sighs and reaches down to grab a rather thick-looking three-ring binder, setting it on top of the desk in front of him and patting it.}
Randon Haynes: Listen, Mr. Rost, do you know what this is right here?
{Rost looks down at whatâs sitting between himself and the General Manager}
Tytus Rost: It is a binder.
Randon Haynes: Yes, and do you know what is inside of this binder?
Tytus Rost: Randon, you and I both know that I can not see through such an opaque cover. You have also not written anything on the side of this binder. So, no, I can not possibly know what is inside of it.
{Haynes opens the binder and turns it one hundred eighty degrees so the text is facing the correct way for Tytus to examine.}
Randon Haynes: This, Mr. Rost, is my championship belt, so to speak. Ever since I won control of Odyssey by decimating that useless Ginger, I have been compiling viewership data on my shows, block-by-block. As you can see there, viewership is up! People are tuning in in drives, setting new records every show!
{After flipping a few pages, Randon points to a very specific point on the page for the Russian Bear.}
Randon Haynes: See this number here. This is what is referred to as the key demographic. It is an incredibly important number that, right now, is quite high. We've seen tremendous growth in that area coinciding with Serenity Holmes winning the Invictus Championship. Every time she wrestles, speaks, breathes⊠that number shoots sky high!
{Haynes pushes the binder closer to Tytus.}
Randon Haynes: Take a look for yourself, Mr. Rost. It is right there in black and white.
{Randon leans back in his chair, folding his hands into a temple. Tytus examines the page.}
Randon Haynes: Simply put, the girl is a star! Every competitor in this company is valuable; but Serenity, Mr. Rost, is my crown jewel! Or to put it in simpler terms you might better understand -you, being a farmer- she is my prized hen! Serenity makes this company money, which makes us all more money by extension! We could practically bottle her bath water and sell it for hundreds of thousands of dollars!
Tytus Rost: So you would sell this womanâs eggs for a profit? I have heard that this can be a lucrative skill, and if Ms. Holmes is agreeable to being a donor then who would I be to stand in the way. But, I would like to draw the line at bath water - this would not be hygienic.
Randon Haynes: What?! No!â
{Haynes begins massaging his temples, breathing deeply.}
Tytus Rost: You do not wish to sell my bathwater do you, Mr. Haynes?
{Not wanting to upset the monstrous man, Haynes simply shakes his head.}
Randon Haynes: No, we're not selling anyone's bathwater. Or their eggs, Mr. Rost. I was simply trying to make a point. Forget the bathwater and the eggs. Focus. We're talking about Serenity. Nowâ
{Randon gets up from his seat and pulls out a stack of poster boards tucked alongside a filing cabinet behind his desk.}
Randon Haynes: Tytus, these are pie charts, created by myself, illustrating merchandise sales for the past few months.
{Haynes approaches Tytus, handing him the gigantic pieces of poster board.}
Randon Haynes: Here. Hold these while I look for my tripod. I can't seem to remember where I put it. I don't understand why Jennie gets an assistant, even as useless as he is, while I have to do literally everything myself.
{Tytus looks at the chart in his hands, dwarfed as it is, and quizzically turns back to Haynes}
Tytus Rost: Let me see if I get this straight, Mr. Haynes. You are upset because if I get into the ring against Ms. Serenity and unpretty her, you lose the ability to capitalize off her face. Does this sound correct?
Randon Haynes: No. What type of person do you think I am?!
Tytus Rost: I think you are the type who would want to see my bathwater if given the chance, tovarich.
Randon Haynes: I assure you, I, nor anyone else, has any interest in your bath water!
Tytus Rost: Do you have a pie chart to support this?
{Randon looks at Tytus with complete and utter contempt.}
Randon Haynes: It's hard to illustrate how turned off people would be by something that smells like cow shit in a pie chart. So, no Tytus, I don't have a pie chart.
{Randon's voice grows much, much quieter.}
Randon Haynes: dO YoU hAVe A piE cHaRt tO sUppOrT tHiS.
{Tytus cocks an eyebrow at the smaller man, slowly lowering the charts.}
Tytus Rost: I did not catch that, Mr. Haynes. Would you mind saying that again for me?
{Randon tugs at his collar a little.}
Randon Haynes: I was just thinking aloud, it was nothing. What makes you so sure you'd even beat Serenity anyway? Much less, in your own words: unpretty her?
{Tytus smiles, but Haynes clearly sees that thereâs no warmth behind it}
Tytus Rost: See, tovarich, this is where your pie charts and your binders of numbers fail you. You are so focused on the simplicity of my winning this match. Win or lose, Mr. Haynes, Serenity will not be the same woman she was going into this match. So, you may wish to invest in some new charts.
Randon Haynes: Now here is the problem I have, Mr. Rost; when you say things such as win or lose, Serenity will not be the same woman she was going into this match, it makes me think you're focused on hurting Serenity at any and all costs. That gives me a tremendous amount of concern about your ability to carry your own weight in this tag match tonight, as well as your capabilities of being a good partner for this brand's champion.
Tytus Rost: You worry, my friend. If there is one thing that Tytus can do it is carry weight. I will bear the burdon for both myself and Ms. Holmes should she prove unable to ⊠play ball I believe is the term.
{Randon takes his seat behind his desk and directs his attention at Tytus.}
Randon Haynes: I believe you'll find Ms. Holmes is an outstanding partner. If I hadn't already retired, I'd be the first volunteer to team with her myself.
{Haynes flashes a sly smile.}
Randon Haynes: But just in case you need any extra motivation to hold up your end of this team, allow me to provide you some. Should any harm come to any member of the Legion by your hands tonight, I will fine you one thousand dollars per occurrence. And if any harm should come to Ms. Holmes by your doing tonight, I'll make that fine fifty thousand dollars.
{Randon leans back in his seat, trying to play it cool while also putting more distance between himself and the Russian Bear.}
Randon Haynes: But I trust there won't be any issues with your teamwork out there. After all, if a man doesn't have his word, what does he have?
{Haynes points toward the door, wanting Tytus to leave.}
Randon Haynes: Now if you'll excuse me, I have a show to run. You should probably find your partner as well so she can tell you what type of strategy the two of you will utilize tonight.
{Tytus stands up, towering over Haynes from across the desk. He calmly closes the binder and slides it back toward Haynes. After once again flashing that smile, Tytus leaves the office. The shows goes to a break with a shot of Randon Haynes sitting at his desk.}
-------------------------------
TRIPLE THREAT MATCH
TJ Alexander vs Ollie Maverick vs Logan Sky
-------------------------------
In a triple threat match between TJ Alexander, Logan Sky, and Ollie Maverick, the action kicks off fast as TJâs technical skills and speed allow him to take early control. He targets both Logan and Ollie with suplex variations, grounding Ollie and overpowering the veteran Logan with a series of quick suplexes and submission holds. Logan, ever the brawler, manages to fight back, using his powerhouse style to slow TJ down with hard-hitting moves like a powerslam and swinging neckbreaker.
Ollie, meanwhile, bides his time, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. He launches himself into the match with a high-flying assault, taking out both opponents with a stunning Tope Con Hilo. The crowd is electrified as Ollie begins using his rapid kicks and unpredictable offense, including his signature Planes, Trains, and Plantains (Leapfrog Cutter) on TJ.
Logan fights back, showing his veteran prowess, locking Ollie in a guillotine choke, but TJ interrupts with a springboard cutter, freeing Ollie. Logan goes for his signature Seven Punches, following up with an elbow strike, nearly flooring TJ. However, Ollie seizes the moment, nailing Logan with the Expedited Priority Delivery Nikes (corner-to-corner missile dropkick), sending the veteran crashing to the mat.
As TJ recovers and tries to hit his finisher, "Game Over" on Logan, Ollie slips in and delivers his devastating finisher, The Gravy Train (Buzzsaw Roundhouse Kick) to a kneeling TJ, knocking him out cold. With TJ out of commission, Ollie quickly covers Logan for the pin, securing the victory in an unpredictable and action-packed bout.
Ollie celebrates with Rocky as the fans cheer his hard-earned victory.
Winner: Ollie Maverick (by pinfall)
-------------------------------
SEGMENT
Fight Night 2: Electric Boogaloo
-------------------------------
Iyo Kenshin: Wait what? Iâve got word that Bryce and Rob are still brawling. Let's see if we can..
{The camera feed snaps violently into focus as Bryce goes hurling through a window and across a catering stand knocking food, plates, and cutlery everywhere}
Iyo Kenshin: No! -deep sigh- Iâm never going to get that apple pie now..
{Rob starts to storm out of the kitchen where he threw Byrce from holding what appears to be a wok lifting it high as he prepares to bash Bryce}
Rob: Time to end this.
{Rob swings down and Brye rolls one way, then another on the next swing, backing up towards a wal as Rb keeps swinging ad Bry throws a lod of grated Cheese in his face at one swing And Rob sputters with a small gasp of horror}
Rob: Lactose! No!
{He starts to laugh}
Rob: Did you seriously âŠoh sh..
{Rob has to use the wok to block a handful of glass, then a fork , then a knife swing as Bryce starts hauling cutlery and random bits of plate at Rob as he closes the distance and kicks loose the Wok and Rob continues to pluck and parry crockery swings as they go back the other way before Rob Side steps a step the ends up in a metal cabinet door and breaks what remains of the shard. Bryce Lifts Rob up with a roar of fury and the two go crashing through a door that crumples before Bryce stumbles out and away for a second to take a breath and then his eyes settle on a fire cabinet which he smashes to start getting at the Fire axe}
Bryce: No more fucking around.
{Rob for his part crawls out and sees the axe letting loose a sigh of dismay as Bryce walks up and itâs Robâs turn to throw something at BryceâŠThumbtacks, staples and the little door sign the reads âsuppliesâ making Bryce flail and fumble the axe as Rob stands up himself to charge at Bryce and the to go over a stair rail and out of shot.}
-------------------------------
SEGMENT
Word Limit: 2000
Participants: Serenity Holmes, Caleb Cannin and Roberto Verona
Verona's proteges meet with the returning CEO to discuss recent events in his absence.
-------------------------------
{ We return from a brief commercial break to return backstage in the office of the CEO Roberto Verona. He sits in his usual ornate chair behind a desk with members of his Legion flanking him either side before he looks up and Serenity Holmes and Caleb Cannin both walk into shot. Roberto extends a hand to greet them. }
Roberto Verona: Thank you for coming.
{ Verona leans forward. }
Roberto Verona: Youâll have to forgive me for my absence, I can hardly break medical protocol⊠after all, Iâm expected to set an example to follow.
{ Verona raises out his arms. }
Roberto Verona: Yet, Iâve been watching and Iâve been pleased with you both in my absence. I promised that if you listened to me and fulfilled your obligations you would be rewarded and I hope that you understand this from the opportunity I am giving you, Caleb.
{ Verona turns to look at Caleb. }
{ Caleb returns a look back at Verona and gives a small smirk. He nods his head and then clasps his hands together. }
Caleb Cannin: Roberto, you know that I have valued your mentorship above all else since coming back. You have guided me towards a path that I may have never walked down. It could have taken me months or even years in order to achieve what I wanted. I was selfish. I did not see the vision. You cast a light upon me that burns brighter with every passing week. And that light will shine down on me and Pax Stormcrow. I have sworn myself both to you⊠and the lovely Serenity, of course. And when I win the IWF World Championship⊠I will have made you and the rest of the Legion proud. So says the Legionary.
-------------------------------
INTERGENDER TAG TEAM MATCH
RAM & Caroline Machado vs Tytus Rost & Serenity Holmes
-------------------------------
Alison Valance: The following tag team contest is scheduled for one fall with a twenty-minute time limit!
{The lights go out, and the crowd eagerly awaits the entrance of Caroline Machado. We hear the sound of her distinctive, goofy chuckle reverberate throughout the arena. And then, as if on cue...}
"Hi!!!"
{A burst of pyro goes off, and the crowd leaps to its feet as Caroline bursts out from behind the curtain! With a smile on her face and eyes twinkling like diamonds, the Brazilian is bathed in a sea of green and gold lighting effects as Dua Lipa's "Dance the Night" starts playing. She dances on the stage to the track's first verse, taking in the moment around her.}
"Baby, you can find me under the lights
Diamonds under my eyes
Turn the rhythm up, don't you wanna just
Come along for the ride?
Ooh, my outfit so tight
You can see my heartbeat tonight
I can take the heat, baby, best believe
That's the moment I shine
'Cause every romance shakes and it bends
Don't give a damn
When the night's here, I don't do tears
Baby, no chance
I could dance, I could dance, I could dance"
{Caroline takes a bouncy stroll down the ramp and high-fives fans along the way, her bubbly and cheerful exterior shining through and through as the chorus kicks in. She hops and jives around the ring, soaking in the atmosphere before hopping on the apron and eventually over the top rope. The ring also becomes bathed in that green and gold hue as confetti shoots out from all four ringposts.}
Alison Valance: Introducing first, entering the ring, hailing from Rio de Janiero, Brazil! Ca-O-line Machado!
"Watch me dance, dance the night away
My hДart could be burnin', but you won't see it on my face
Watch me dancĐ”, dance the night away (Uh-huh)
I'll still keep the party runnin', not one hair out of place
Lately, I been movin' close to the edge
Still be lookin' my best
I stay on the beat, you can count on me
I ain't missin' no steps..."
{The Brazilian kips up to all four corners and salutes the cheering crowd, smiling from ear to ear as she does so. As the lights return to normal, Caroline's bubbliness turns into a calm, warrior-like vibe as she waits for the match to start.}
Iyo Kenshin: Caroline is always such a delight, Rayne. She is genuinely one of the nicest people on this planet. I think that's partly what pains me so much about seeing the amount of pain she seems to be going through with the story that broke this week.
Rayne: I personally don't see what the big deal is. Someone has some nude photos that maybe she doesn't want out, I get it. But we live in a time where it really isn't a big deal to take some photos like that. So, if you're about being judged, don't be. And if you just don't want them out, a couple of shots to somebody's leg with a crowbar usually convinces people to destroy items like that. It's amazing how much people enjoy the ability to walk.
Iyo Kenshin: I cannot imagine it is in Caroline's nature to do something like that, Rayne.
Rayne: You sure?
{Alison Valance readies herself for another introduction.}
Alison Valance: And her tag team partner...
{The opening bars to a metal cover of "Necron" -- the final battle theme from Final Fantasy IX -- begin to play as we hear distorted audio recordings of screams and laughter filter in. The visual of blood red-hued programming language being typed on a screen is seen with a hint of flame dancing in the background. The flames grow bigger and bigger before the pictures cut to black, and the following message appears.}
"c000021a [FATAL SYSTEM ERROR]"
{As "Necron" kicks into gear, Ram hops into the picture, and as pyro goes off around him, he pretends to do the famous Buster Sword "victory" pose before heading down to ringside. While he gets a mixed reaction from the crowd, he takes a moment or two to look around and admire the gathering around him before stepping inside the ring.}
Alison Valance: Entering the ring, standing 6'3" tall and weighing in at 225lbs... RAM!
{RAM gives Caroline a nod as he joins her in their corner, seemingly an indicator that they're on the same page.}
Iyo Kenshin: RAM and Caroline have both been through their share of personal struggles as of late, Rayne. Those struggles have seemingly brought them together again, ready to stand across the ring from Serenity Holmes and Tytus Rost.
Rayne: They look like a united front; I'll give you that much. They sounded like a united front this week, too. Still, stepping inside of the ring against two people as talented as Serenity Holmes and Tytus Rost is a tall order for anyone, especially after one of you just vowed to bash the Russian Bear's dick in the dirt. You know what they say about poking bears, Iyo...
Iyo Kenshin: I do. I certainly wouldn't dare antagonize Tytus. However, I am also not a professional wrestler the caliber of RAM or Caroline Machado. I also do not think it is a stretch by any means to say Caroline and RAM have far greater potential to function successfully as a unit in this match.
{The camera focuses on the top of the stage.}
Alison Valance: And their opponents...
{The crowd turns its attention toward the entrance area as a bear roar echoes throughout the arena. They continue to watch as the drumbeat of "Tired of Winning" begins and from behind the curtain steps the hulking figure of Tytus Rost, his face like carved granite as he stares with cold eyes down to the ring.}
Alison Valance: First, making his way to the ring, weighing three hundred and four pounds ⊠from Norilsk, Siberia ⊠The Russian Bear ⊠Tytus ⊠Rost!
{Rostâs upper lip curls in a sneer as he begins to move with purpose down the ramp. Making it to the ring, Tytus stands on the floor for a beat before leaping up to the apron in a show of agility for a man his size. He wipes his boots on the outside ring apron before stepping in through the ropes and walks with purpose to the center of the ring.}
Iyo Kenshin: Although he appears outwardly unphased, I feel like Tytus is in an incredibly difficult position tonight. He has to team with Serenity Holmes, who doesn't have the best history when it comes to working well with others. Plus, Tytus has the general manager, Randon Haynes, threatening him with massive fines if he lays a hand on Serenity; but I have seen no such stance taken by the GM if Serenity were to assault Tytus. And of course, Roberto Verona is always watching.
Rayne: Cry me a river, Iyo. All Tytus has to do is be a team player and listen to Serenity's orders, and they'll both earn a victory without any problems. Tytus can then go on to get his title shot against Serenity in a sanctioned bout. What is so terrible about that?
Iyo Kenshin: Listen to Serenity's orders?! Do you hear yourself, Rayne? Tytus is his own man, perfectly capable of thinking for himself. He is also a top-notch competitor. Few men possess the strength and agility that this man displays. Perhaps that has Serenity scared, even with an army behind her.
Rayne: You're hilarious, Iyo!
{The show goes to a shot of the stage again.}
Alison Valance: And his tag team partner...
{"Synthetic Sympathy" by Trash Boat immediately explodes from the arena's surrounding systems, sparking a positive reaction from the audience. The bass and repeated opening lyrics synchronize with the lights flashing around the venue's interior, leading to Serenity Holmes sprinting from the backstage area to center stage, where the fans of the Action Wrestling universe greet her. She stands center stage before taking off her hat and throwing it into the fans for amusement until looking down the entrance path, where she takes off into a run for the mere moment of interactions on her fast-paced run to the ring.}
Alison Valance: "Introducing on her way to the ring! Hailing from Houston, Texas! At five feet, seven inches tall, weighing in at 127 pounds. She is "22nd Century Girl" Serenity Holmes!"
{Serenity slides under the bottom rope before unloading onto her feet, where she quickly hops onto the middle turnbuckle of an unoccupied corner to greet the fans at ringside. She flips her hair and throws up a peace sign with her tongue hanging out while winking at the camera. Serenity hops down and lands on her feet before running around the ring to show love to every possible fan in the atmosphere before staying in her designated corner, waiting for the next moment.}
Rayne: Our champ is here! That's what a winner looks like, Iyo. Take it in.
Iyo Kenshin: Rayne, her head has already swelled more than enough. I really do not see the need for you to try to overinflate her ego any more than it already is.
Rayne: How dare you!? If she watches this show back, I wouldn't want to be you, I'll tell you that. She will have your head.
{Caroline appears set to begin the match for her team as RAM takes the apron. In the opposite corner, Tytus looks set to step out when Serenity grabs his shoulder and shakes her head. She points toward Caroline, wanting Tytus to start the match against her. Tytus seems to be trying to express an idea of his own about strategy, but Serenity is vehemently opposed to his idea. She points to her own chin, yelling for Tytus to hit her then if he doesn't like it.}
Iyo Kenshin: She knows damn well if Tytus strikes her, it'll be a fifty-thousand dollar fine!
Rayne: She's giving him options, Iyo. Weren't you the one saying just a few minutes ago that he is his own man, and he can think for himself. Well, here is his chance. He could punch Serenity right in the mouth and toss her to the lions, it'll just cost him. Or he can listen to her and gain a victory. Up to him.
{Tytus calmly turns to face Caroline, readying himself to compete. Serenity takes the apron. The official for this contest, Tommy Knocker, checks in to see if the competitors are ready. Both Caroline and Tytus respond affirmatively. Tommy calls for the opening bell.}
Ding!
{Caroline moves in on Tytus almost immediately, looking to take the fight to the larger competitor with some quick strikes. The Russian Bear eats a few blows, finally staggering a bit when Caroline lands a kick to his left knee. Spotting the opening, Caroline tries for a Tai Otoshi judo throw, but Tytus stifles the attempt by grabbing her arm and shoving her down. Machado is up quickly. Rost delivers a punishing midsection kneelift, followed by an overhead belly-to-belly suplex. Caroline comes up clutching her back as Tytus lines up for a big boot. The Russian charges, going for broke. Caroline uses her agility to evade. Machado throws more kicks aimed at Tytus' left knee, hobbling the massive man. As Serenity barks orders at Tytus from the outside, Caroline lands a vicious headbutt that staggers both competitors. Caroline drifts back, making the tag to RAM. Tytus looks for a tag to Serenity, which Serenity refuses to take.}
{RAM rushes Tytus from behind, driving a knee into his back to knock him into the corner where Serenity stands. Holmes backs away with her arms up as RAM goes to work on Tytus, throwing punches to the Russian Bear's midsection! RAM tags Tytus under the chin with an uppercut that echoes throughout the arena, sending spit flying out of Tytus' mouth. Marshall guides Tytus out of the corner by his hair, wanting to set up for a suplex. However, Rost blocks! RAM tries for a second lift, only to see it stuffed again. The Russian turns the tide, hoisting RAM up for a suplex and holding him high in the air for fifteen seconds before bringing him down the hard way! Rost moves into a cover. The official slides into position for a count. RAM kicks out of the pin right on the count of two, though! Rost rains down some punches on RAM, repaying him for those earlier shots. Rost gets up, kicking at RAM, moving him toward a neutral corner. Lifting RAM, Tytus hurls him across the ring with a massive biel throw! Tytus waits for RAM to get up, this time lining up to connect with a leaping heel kick! As Tytus gets back to his feet, he spots Serenity with her hand out, wanting a tag.}
Iyo Kenshin: Now she wants a tag!?
Rayne: It's all part of the strategy, Iyo.
{Tytus flashes Serenity the same smile he gave the general manager earlier, completely absent of warmth. Instead of making a tag, the Russian Bear positions RAM for a pumphandle slam, his eyes locked on Serenity the entire time he's setting up. He hoists RAM up and drives him into the canvas! Tytus covers RAM and the official slides into position for a count. After the count of one, Tommy is forced to hold up when he spots Serenity coming in the ring. Tytus turns back to glare at her as she gives him a little shove with her foot. Rost starts to get up when Serenity gives him another shove to his shoulder with her foot. Holmes is yelling at Rost about not tagging her in. The Russian Bear is trying to keep his cool, a fact Serenity quickly picks up on. She puts both hands behind her back, leans forward, and offers her chin for Tytus to hit her.}
Iyo Kenshin: Serenity Holmes is out of control! She's doing everything she can to try to bait Tytus into hitting her!
Rayne: He's not listening to her, Iyo!
{Holmes continues her treatment of Tytus, with neither spotting RAM diving to make a tag to Caroline. Caroline spins Tytus around, then attempts a roundhouse. Rost ducks... but Machado's kick finds Holmes head in Rost's place, silencing the Invictus Champion!}
Iyo Kenshin: Good! Shut her up!
Rayne: That is no way to treat Serenity Holmes!
{Tytus shows no concern whatsoever for Serenity, who is laying on the canvas flat on her face. Instead, the big Russian bulldozes Caroline back into a neutral corner. Rost unleashes a flurry of European uppercuts. Serenity crawls out of the ring behind them. Having been in the match since the start, the pace of the blows starts to slow at the end as fatigue starts to set in on Tytus. He lifts Caroline up onto the top turnbuckle, then starts to climb up with her. He gets to the second buckle, wanting a superplex. Caroline fights him off though with some strikes to his side, robbing the big man of more oxygen in addition to doing damage. Caroline uses another headbutt to knock Rost off the buckles. He lands hard on his back. Caroline catches a moment to recover as Tytus tries to get up. Machado launches herself at Rost, surprising him with a "Seis espigÔes de pacote (Six Pack Spike)", her name for a spinning tornado DDT! Caroline makes a cover. The official takes the long route getting in position for a cover. Machado keeps Rost's shoulders on the canvas for a count of two before the big Russian Bear shoves her off!}
{Caroline makes a quick tag to RAM. Marshall comes in and aggressively starts putting the boots to Tytus! Still holding her head, Holmes barks more instructions to Tytus from the apron. RAM rushes over, knocking Serenity from the apron to the floor. The fatigue on Tytus really slows him as he tries to get up. RAM refocuses on Tytus, delivering a knee to his head. Tired and off-balance, Tytus falls victim to a scoop slam from RAM that shakes the ring! Marshall heads toward the corner, scaling the turnbuckles to go to the high-rent district. At the height of his climb, Holmes shoves RAM off the top rope, though! Serenity starts to go up top. Caroline rushes over, but Holmes catches her in the face with a kick. Just as RAM starts to get up, Serenity leaps off the top with a "Red Bottoms" on RAM's head! She gets up and stands over RAM, yelling at him now. Caroline tries to get back in the ring, however Serenity knocks her off the apron. Holmes goes out to the floor after Caroline, throwing her into the steel guardrail. With RAM already down, a battle worn Tytus moves in to pick him up and deliver a ĐĐŸĐœĐ”Ń (The End), his F5 spun into a Diamond Cutter. Tytus covers RAM. The referee slides into position and counts, with Tytus holding RAM's shoulders down for the count of three and the victory as Serenity stomps away on Caroline on the outside. The referee calls for the bell!}
Ding!
Ding!
Ding!
{"Tired of Winning" hits as Tytus gets up off the cover to a knee. Serenity stops stomping on Caroline to storm over and demand her championship title.}
Iyo Kenshin: It was anything but smooth, however, somehow, Tytus and Serenity put it together as a team just long enough to win this match!
Rayne: Tytus can thank her later for that.
Iyo Kenshin: He did most of the work, Rayne. If her emotions hadn't got the better of her, I'm not sure she'd have done any of the work. She was going to leave Tytus to take a beating while also trying to get him fined.
{The official raises Rost's arm in victory as Holmes backs up the ramp, holding her Invictus Championship high in the air. When Rost turns to look at her, she has some rather choice words for him off microphone. Caroline helps to get RAM out of the ring as the show goes to a commercial break with a shot capturing both Tytus and Holmes locked in a staredown.}
-------------------------------
SEGMENT
Word Limit: 2000
Participants: Bella Morte, Savage Kingdom and Nick Knight
Bella Morte react to the announced stipulation for their title defence... only to be joined by the former champions Savage Kingdom, will they remain uninterrupted?
-------------------------------
Iyo Kenshin: Up next, we have a rare weekly show appearance from Bella Morte who made history at Legacy a couple of months ago when they ended the seemingly unstoppable reign of Savage Kingdom to become the new IWF World Tag Team Champions.
Rayne: Last week, IWF COO, Roberto Verona returned and laid out several groundbreaking plans for this yearâs Survival of the Fittest. Historically, one of IWFâs premier Pay-Per-View events. This year all titles will be defended in a variety of exciting matches.
Iyo Kenshin: Including the World Tag Team Championships, which this year will be defended for the first time ever in a multi team Dual Escape Steel Cage Match, where in order to win, one member of a team must successfully escape the cage and open the door for their partner to also successfully escape. The first team to successfully escape together will walk out with the IWF World Tag Team TitlesâŠ
{A high pitched female scream causes the lights to flicker in the arena. As the rebellious yell seamlessly transitions to a soft chilling female laughter, the lights die completely. In the darkness a lone voice questions.
âNow I lay me down to sleep
Six feet down beneath concrete
If I should die before I wake
Did I make peace or a mistake?â
During this question, the entranceway fills with purple smoke. After the question, Abigail emerges from the coloured smoke alone, under a soft blue hue and to a mixed reaction. She has Eternityâs half of the World Tag Team Championships secured around her waist. The lyrics of âAfterlifeâ by Citizen Soldier accompany her walk down the ramp. She clenches her jaw before pausing in the middle of the ramp, dropping to her knees and looking heavenward. She flings her arms out either side of her, causing more purple smoke to fill the ramp before the lights go out again briefly.
When they return a few moments later, just after the chorus, Eternity is standing behind Abigail in her hat, veil and sleeveless black leather trench coat. Eternity has Abigailâs half of World Tag Team Championships draped around her neck, upside down. Abigail rises slowly, cracks her neck slightly and continues her journey down the ramp in the comforting shadow of death, alone no longer. Abigail walks up the steps, not to heaven, but into the ring, Eternity close behind.
With Eternity standing firm behind her still, Abigail drops to her knees and lets out a rebellious yell heavenward as she throws her head back, looking up at Eternity, who has her head bowed down towards Abigail, eyes closed. Eternity places a hand on each of Abigailâs shoulders before she opens her eyes again. The two women now share a quiet moment gazing into each otherâs soul. Abigail breathes heavily, whilst Eternity doesnât seem to breathe at all. The music slowly fades as the lights settle on a soft all encompassing purple.
Eternity takes her left hand off Abbyâs shoulder and retrieves a microphone from a pocket in her trench coat, which she passes into Abbyâs right hand. Abby flashes a smile up at her before looking dead ahead and The Archangel begins to speak.}
Abigail: Over the years, many have tried ta court Death, many more have tried to evade Her anâ many more still have tried ta reduce Us ta a mere memory of a darker time, long since passed, best forgottenâŠ
{Abigail and Eternity turn their heads slowly as one towards the commentary desk, where Eternityâs icy glare meets Rayneâs gaze.}
Abigail: Ainât that right, Rayne?
{Rayne and Iyo look confused.}
Iyo Kenshin: What did you ever do to Bella Morte?
Rayne: Hell if I knowâŠ
Abigail: Ya werenât the only one, not by a long shot, but you were one of the first to betray Eternityâs sacred trust. As one of the Children Of Eternity, ya could have been blessed with a longer career anâ a position of privilege by her side, instead ya shunned it and today many years later, ya and Isabella Maldini are reapinâ the bitter consequences of your sole ambition and greed. Both retired before their time, almost forgotten. A whole new generation of IWF fans watchinâ today donât even know who Isabella was, and know ya Rayne only as a commentator rather than the pioneer of womenâs wrestlinâ that ya once were.
Rayne: Oh, God, the Children of Eternity, I hadnât thought about my place in that group for years. Not my finest moment, Eternity was no Ayla St James, thatâs for damn sure.
Iyo Kenshin: All that was way before my time in IWF Iâm afraid, so, I couldnât possibly comment on who you were in those days. All I know is today youâre one hell of a fine broadcast partner.
{Abigail smirks at Rayne.}
Abigail: A fitting twilight of near obscurity for an ungrateful sinner who knew not how ta appreciate the gift of immortality that she was once offered, without knowinââŠ
{Abigail and Eternity face forward again, together, forever.}
Abigail: I ainât an ungrateful child. I ainât Warren Kidd. I ainât burdened by a crippling sense of inferiority like those who came before me to stand by Her side, but couldnât endure the beautiful madness of the brightest soul in this company. The association with Rowan MacDonnough in The Dark Triad was a grave mistake. I have forgiven anâ I have cleansed and now our bond is as strong as it has ever been, stronger than the steel that will contain all the doubters and heretics who stand against us with the rest of the world. So come one, come all. We relish the chance ta hasten your inevitable end at Survival of the FittestâŠ
{The lights are dimmed as the opening to "Angry Again" by The Volatile begins to play. Shrouded in near darkness, the Black Widow crawls out from behind the curtain, stopping on the cusp of the ramp. Stephen Terrella and Portia slowly walk out behind her, holding hands as they take a place a few feet behind her, making out with each other in a very over-the-top public display of affection. Looking around the arena, Brandy stays on her knees, arms extended, and arches her back in a way that her upper body falls backwards. Thirty-seven seconds into the song, just before the lyrics start, Brandy thrusts her torso upward with a jolt. Stephen and Portia look towards the ring in unison with the Black Widow. Savage By Nature begins a slow, purposeful walk toward the ring, catching an earful from the crowd as they proceed.}
The more of you that I inspect
The more of me I see reflect
The more I try to read your lips
The more the mask you're wearing rips
But when I seek out your voice
My ears are overcome with noise
You show and tell with greatest ease
Raving impossibilities
Engaged in crime I grasp my throat
Enraged my mind starts to smoke
Enforce a mental overload
Angry again, angry again, angry owe!
{The Black Widow slips into the ring beneath the bottom rope, pushing herself up onto her hands. She maintains a sizable length of distance between herself and Bella Morte, watching them closely. Terrella guides Portia up the ring stairs by her hand. As Portia walks across the apron, Terrella slowly matches up the stairs. Stephen moves to the middle of the apron, holding the ropes open for Portia to step inside the squared circle. Terrella sneers at the crowd before entering the ring himself.}
Rayne: It feels weird to say this, Iyo; but the former World Tag Team Champions are here.
Iyo Kenshin: No one will soon forget the bloody war Savage By Nature and Bella Morte had where Bella Morte seized those championships from Savage By Nature's grasp. The question now becomes why is Savage By Nature here now, and I suspect we may soon get our answer.
{Terrella walks up to Abigail who has risen to her feet to meet him. Next to his massive frame, she looks small. Neither Abigail nor Eternity are intimidated by Terrella's presence, however. Noting their boldness, he smirks. Portia places a hand on Terrella's shoulder, wanting him to remain calm. The Black Widow hangs back near the ropes, cautiously watching still.}
Portia: Abigail, honey, literally no one cares about almost any of whatever it was that you just said. Like, whatever this is-
{Portia gestures at Bella Morte with the palm of her hand in a very exaggerated fashion.}
Portia: It makes me want to vomit. You need help with your hair and your nails. You need help with your clothes. And someone should have taught at least one of you that, when it comes to makeup, it isn't a paint by the numbers fingerpaint project.
{A brief pause, with Portia holding up one finger.}
Portia: But more than anything else, you both need professional mental help!
Stephen Terrella: Thing is, mental help seems to be what we do now. See, we already put one fucking nutjob out of his own misery. Cost me twenty-five stitches and a few staples, but Nick Knight⊠he ain't here no more. He limped his broke fucking ass on home to be spoonfed applesauce with his pills.
{Terrella runs his chin.}
Stephen Terrella: With that shit done, it's time we take back what's fucking ours: those belts you got. So, Survival of the Fittest, we'll see both your asses in that cage, along with anyone else stupid enough to step in there with us with absolutely no rules to save them. And we'll see who meets their fucking end.
{Ecstasy Of Gold starts to play over the sound system as Nick Knight steps onto the entrance ramp. âThe Hollywood Butcherâ is dressed in jeans and a Joy Division t-shirt, his barbed wire wrapped 2x4 over his shoulder.}
Nick Knight: It seems that the rumor of my demise is exaggerated. Trust me, it takes a whole lot more than a couple assholes going after my knee to take me out.
Now I don't really care about being a tag team champion, but it would feel really nice to make sure Terella and Black Widow leave without those belts. So count me and a partner into this car cash clusterfuck of a match.
{Terrella is breathing heavily, his head bowed as his hand is clamped down on his own jaw like a vice. He won't even look at Knight, utterly pissed off by Nick's mere presence. Portia moves between Terrella and the ropes, trying to dissuade him from rushing up to meet Knight and his barbed wire wrapped 2x4. The Black Widow keeps her focus on Bella Morte; specifically Eternity.}
Stephen Terrella: Knight, you just don't know when to fucking quit, do you?
{Terrella raises a hand chest high, assuring Portia he isn't going up there.}
Stephen Terrella: Here's the deal though: Survival of the Fittest is a long fucking way from now, and if you want in, you got to make it there. I wouldn't bet on that. But if you do, I'm going to take everything from you, Knight.
{Terrella looks at Abigail.}
Stephen Terrella: Right along with those titles the two of you have now.
{Abigail simply smirks at Terella, unphased by the big man, or his threats.}
Abigail: Between ya anâ your pretty blonde bimbo, I donât know which of yâall talk the biggest pail of Grade A pigswill. If memory serves, Stephen, youâre the reason weâre the Champs in the first place. We pinned your ass at Legacy, and now we find out that ya canât even keep The Hollywood Butcher outta commission, so the way we see it, youâre more bluster than balls. We have some respect for your partner, but you Stephen ainât got nothinâ ta intimidate or threaten us with. Itâs quite clear that ya mean very little on your own without a couple of bitches ta back your playâŠ
{Abigail then looks over at Knight on the ramp.}
Abigail: Donât be shy Nick, if ya wanna come down here anâ scramble this eggheadâs brain with your equalizer there, Eternity anâ I wonât stop ya. As for cominâ for our belts, we never back down from a challenge, even the unknown ones, so more the merrier. We will face anybody anâ everybody who wants ta try anâ foolishly escape their ultimate fate at Survival of the Fittest.
{Terrella glances down, boiling on the inside. He looks up at night, a hatred searing in Stephen's eyes. Again he looks down. Without another word, he walks past Abigail, bumping shoulders with her. Portia follows Stephen past Bella Morte, away from Knight. Terrella holds the ropes open for Portia to exit the ring and then follows her out. The Black Widow trails them, stopping to run her gloved hand briefly across the contours of Eternity's face. Remaining silent, the Widow quickly rolls out of the ring. Stephen lifts Portia over the railing and Savage By Nature exit through a hostile crowd. The show goes to commercial on a shot of Knight looking at Bella Morte in the ring.}
-------------------------------
TAG TEAM MATCH
Charlotte Shimizu & Shea OâHara vs Candy Kane & Mimi Simpson
-------------------------------
{ Pump it plays as Mimi comes running down the ramp and into the ring. }
Iyo Kenshin: Mimi Simpson is the first one down to the ring, and what an opportunity for her and Candy Kane to be facing off against the IWF Womenâs World Champion and the winner of the Queenâs Gambit! If they can win tonightâŠ
Rayne: But they wonât.
Iyo Kenshin: But if they can!
Rayne: But they wonât. Charlotte has proven herself over the year, and Shea has proven herself already â and she looks to do it again by taking the title away from Charlotte.
{ As the Me Too - Meghan Trainor starts Candy struts down the ramp before climbing into the ropes posing for the crowd. }
Iyo Kenshin: Candy Kane is now in the ring, and she looks ready for this one!
Rayne: Is she ready to have her ass kicked?
âCheck? Okay.â
{ The Imperialtron comes to life with a green ECG beep, then a white one and an orange one, then an Irish tricolour fourth beat which transitions a flatline, replaced by a stronger, bolder, more assertive identity in uncompromising gold against the black: SHEA OâHARA. The crowd erupt into a mixture of cheers and boos as a renewed ball of energy, Shea OâHara explodes through the curtain. She surveys the electric crowd for a moment.
The crowd show no signs of dipping in their energy as they are greeted by the fiery redhead in shades and scarlet leather jacket. Taking centre stage, Shea plants her feet firmly, bouncing into a slight squat as she throws up the âdevil hornsâ on each hand. The gesture is coordinated with the start of the chorus of âComing For Bloodâ by Eva Under Fire (featuring From Ashes To New) as a trio of small intermittent flame pyros are set off on either side of her.
Shea then sprints to the ring, sliding under the ropes, where she bounces up to her feet and runs to the ropes, playing to the camera as she places her left foot on the bottom rope, bouncing before throwing up the âdevil hornsâ on her right hand again, triggering yellow sparkling pyro explosions from each turnbuckle either side of her.
The crowd remains vocal even as she removes her jacket and shades. The lights return to normal and the music fades. }
Iyo Kenshin: And here is the Queenâs Gambit winner, Shea OâHara, looking to cash in at Survival of the Fittest! Could she score a pin here tonight to send a message to the champion?
Rayne: Can they even put their differences aside? I think this would be the perfect opportunity, not to go for the winâ but to hurt each other. To blindside their number one contender and really send a message about who the dominant one is!
{ Before the music starts, the tron lights to show a red sun slowly rising over a broad expanse of ocean. The image flies apart into a flurry of red feathers and pink flower petals as the music hits. When the introductory chorus drops, Charlotte strides out, right fist pumping into the air in rhythm with the words âOh yeahâ.
She circles the outside of the ring after the intro chorus and the first verse, pausing briefly at each side to work the crowd before climbing nimbly up to the apron before the last line of the verse. On the apron, she takes a running start from one corner towards the ringpost opposite. At the last second, she jumps up to the second turnbuckle and flips over the top rope, landing feet together and hands raised just as the chorus hits again. She again circles, pumping her fist high in time with the pounding guitar and screaming vocals of MYTH & ROID.
As the chorus comes to its end, Charlotte stands in the center of the squared circle and bows from her waist to the audience, her hands clasped at her chest. To her fading music, she strides purposefully to her corner and starts shaking out her hands and rolling her neck in preparation for the coming match. }
Iyo Kenshin: And now the IWF Womenâs World Champion is here and the crowd is loving it! Charlotte Shimizu! What an extraordinary year for her, and she doesnât seem to be slowing down at all!
Rayne: But now that sheâs at the top, sheâs going to have all eyes on her. Everyone wants to be able to call themselves the champion! And if she can hold onto it at Survival of the Fittest â she would really prove herself⊠But itâs not going to be an easy task.
{ Shea OâHara and Charlotte Shimizu seemingly argue over who is going to start the match, while Candy Kane and Mimi Simpson circle the other side of the ring â the match begins with a surprise from Mimi Simpson taking charge for her own team, who blindsides Charlotte Shimizu with a double axe handle smash to the back! Charlotte collapses into the corner, and Mimi Simpson goes to work against the Iron Hawk â meanwhile, Shea raises her hands to display innocence as Jessica Andrews has signaled for the bell. }
Iyo Kenshin: Charlotte gets blindsides, and I thinkâ Rayne, I think that Shea kept her attention on her long enough to allow Mimi to take that opening shot⊠That goes to show how important this match is for Candy and Mimi that sheâd be willing to take that cheap shot, but nonetheless, this match is underway! Starting is Mimi Simpson, on the offense, and Charlotte Shimizu, the IWF Womenâs World Champion on the defense!
Rayne: Thatâs what you need to do sometimes, Iyo, in order to make a name for yourself in this business. Take those cheap shots.
{ Mimi puts the boots to Charlotte while Shea watches on from mid-apron, and then Mimi sends Charlotte across the ring with an Irish-whip! She follows in for a body splash, that Charlotte is able to evade and rebound off the ropes to come back for a running dropkick that swings the momentum back into her favor. Mimi is quick to her feet, but is immediately taken down with a headscissors takedown, and Charlie springs to her feet to hit a picture perfect lionsault off the middle rope! She goes for the cover! }
ONE!
TWO!
MIMI KICKS OUT!
{ Charlotte shakes off the hits that were done to her in the early start of the match and controls Mimi back to a vertical base â Charlie sails her over with a picture perfect arm drag, and Mimi rolls through and looks to regain the momentum on her side! A second arm drag! A third! Mimi doesnât seem to have an answer for Charlotte as Charlotte is getting fired up â Mimi back to her feet, and this time is hit with a SAPPORO TWISTER! Charlotte goes straight into the cover, and Candy Kane hurries into the ringâŠmeanwhile, Shea just watches on. }
ONE!
TWO!
CANDY WITH THE SAVE!
Iyo Kenshin: This match has been all Charlotte Shimizu since she recovered, and itâs easy to see how sheâs just always on! The Iron Maiden! The Heiress to the Throne! And now the IWF Womenâs World Champion!
Rayne: A historic year for her, absolutely, but like I mentioned earlier, itâs going to take a toll on her.
{ Charlie looks toward Shea with some frustration that she didnât try to intercept Candy, as Candy backs to her corner without incident. Charlie shakes her head and shakes off her partner ignoring her while controlling Mimi back to her feet â Mimi fires in with some elbows! Charlie staggers! Mimi gets back to her feet, and starts hitting some wild haymakers, just looking for some lifeâŠMimi stumbles back, and tags Candy in! Candy is in the ring, and goes for a running clothesline! CHARLIE DUCKS! Candyâs momentum carries her forward, and she rebounds off of the ropes â meanwhile, Charlie springs off of the middle rope near her corner⊠SHEA TAGS HERSELF IN! Charlie comes back and catches Candy with a back elbow, but knowing that Shea had made the tag, she is immediately met by Jessica Andrews who is ordering her out of the ring. Shimizu canât help but be frustrated since she still had the momentum running for her, and Shea merely shrugs at her. }
Rayne: Shea OâHara tags herself in, and now I donât think sheâs going to give Charlotte another chance in the ring.
Iyo Kenshin: But why would sheâ Charlotte had a good amount of momentum!
{ Shea takes advantage of the situation by starting to stomp against the downed opponent, then pulls her back to her feet and takes her to a neutral corner with a huge EUROPEAN UPPERCUT! Shea follows in and drags her out of the corner before sailing her over with a FISHERMAN SUPLEX! She hooks the leg. }
ONE!
TWO!
CANDY KICKS OUT!
{ Shea looks toward the champion, her partner, with a grin as she pulls Candy Kane back to her feet â SWEET LITTLE MACHINE! The T-bone suplex sails Candy right over, and Shea doesnât stop there as she pulls Candy back up again and sails her with a snapmare and straight into a dropkick to her back! Shea shoves her down and presses all of her weight against Candyâs shoulders to pin her. }
ONE!
TWO!
CANDY STILL KICKS OUT!
Iyo Kenshin: Shea OâHara showing some edge with that cover, but Candy Kane still kicks out.
Rayne: And thatâs her mistake.
{ Shea shoves her down again, and covers. }
ONE!
TWO!
CANDY KICKS OUT!
{ A third time! }
ONE!
TWO!
CANDY KICKS OUT!
{ Shea gets to her feet this time, as Candy rolls onto her stomach â Shea goes to pull her back to a standing base, but Candy with an INSIDE CRADLE! }
ONE!
TWO!
SHEA KICKS OUT!
Iyo Kenshin: CANDY KANE ALMOST STEALS IT AWAY!
Rayne: And all she did was poke the bear!
{ Shea and Candy are quick to their feet, Shea astonished that Candy had surprised her with that roll-up â Candy with a dropkick! Shea goes down, but is quick to her feet, and is met with a second dropkick! Candy now turns to try to bring Mimi back into the ring, but Shea is able to tackle her from behindâŠwith an elbow to the back of her head, using all of her weight to hold her down before finally being able to gain control over her ankle, she starts dragging her backâŠCandy rolls over and kicks Shea in the jaw! Candy dives for the tag! }
Iyo Kenshin: Mimi and Candy have worked well as a team, but they havenât had too much in their favor! This could be the turning point since Charlotte and Shea arenât working together at all!
{ Mimi comes in with a springboard dropkick that sends Shea into the ropes, saving herself from the fall â Mimi looks to continue the momentum by charging her, and Shea steps out from the ropes and counters with a FLAPJACK! Mimiâs neck lands across the top rope, and Shea rubs her jaw in utter disgust before looking right at Charlotte yet again⊠She tells Charlotte to watch and sails her with the BOMBSHELL! Mimi Simpson is in a lot of pain as she still gets to her feet, but sheâs taken right back down with ONE HIT WONDER! Shea makes the cover, her eyes never leaving Charlotte as Jessica Andrews counts. }
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
DING! DING! DING!
Alison Valance: Your winners! By way of pinfall! The team of! CHARLOTTE! SHI-MI-ZU! AND! SHEA! O! HARAAAAA!
{ Shea gets her arm raised while Jessica Andrews is gesturing for Charlotte to get into the ring, so she, too, can have her arm raised; Charlotte is reluctant as Shea eyes her downed opponent, seemingly ready to inflict more damage against her â Charlotte gets into the ring after being presented with the championship, seemingly knowing that if Sheaâs attention is on her, she wonât hurt their opponents further. Jessica holds both their arms up while âComing For Bloodâ plays over the PA. }
-------------------------------
SEGMENT
Word Limit: 2000
Participants: Abraxes, Rob Diamond and Bryce de JĂ€ger
Following weeks of destructive violence, how will the next chapter of this burgeoning feud take off? Can they be contained?
-------------------------------
Iyo Kenshin: I canât believe it! Rob and Bryce are still going at it!
Rayne: I really donât know why you are surprised.
{ The scene shifts backstage back in the office area of the arena. A couple of security guards have come on hand to try and tear the two of them apart. They did succeed in making the two of them stop fighting each other, but only because they decided to focus on security instead. The two men have a pile of security around them while Bryce tees off on a couple of guards nearby him with some stiff right hands. Rob takes one out with a clothes line that flips the man in the air before turning on one and grabbing one up in a full nelson. }
Rob: Hey Curls! Over here.
{ Bryce hits a stiff shot to the bottom of a guard's jaw before he turns to the man that Rob has held and lays into him with several shots to the midsection. The man eventually sags and Rob drops him to the ground. }
Bryce: Fuck you.
Rob: No fuck your⊠grandma.
{ The two stare at each other as they heave for breath. Their bodies display the signs from their battle, bruised and battered. Rob his head slowly. }
Rob: Ah, fuck it.
{ He swings on Bryce and the two men lock up, exchanging blows as they clinch in close together. Their movements have slowed though, bodies lean against each other as the sound of fists against flesh echo in the hallway.
But from off camera there is a roar and a massive shape slams into the two of them. The force of the blow hurls both of them into the air and through the plate glass window into a nearby conference room. The camera zooms out revealing the menacing figure of Abraxes as they stalk towards the two men as they lay in the wreckage of broken glass. }
Abraxes: My foolish little children.
{ The monster clicks its teeth together as glass crunches beneath its feet. Abraxes reaches down and grabs Bryce and Rob by the throat. It lifts them to their feet and stares at the both of them before it lifts them into the air and slams their bodies down into the table, shattering the wood. Abraxes turns back, staring into the camera as the camera operator backpedals and swears in fear before turning and running down the hallway. }
-------------------------------
MAIN EVENT
FIRST BLOOD MATCH
Mai Everstone vs Dean Harper
-------------------------------
Alison Valance: The following Revenge match is scheduled for FIRST BLOOD! The winner will be determined by who makes their opponent bleed first.
Iyo Kenshin: We are getting close to the end of this grueling gauntlet of The Murder going after Dean Harper.
Rayne: You are right. Letâs see if it goes any different here tonight.
{Intro of Throne by Bring Me The Horizon begins to play. The arena is plunged into darkness, with only a few spotlights scanning the crowd. As the first verse starts, a low, pulsating beat resonates throughout the arena, building anticipation}
âRemember the moment you left me alone and
Broke every promise you ever made
I was an ocean, lost in the open
Nothin' could take the pain away "
{As the chorus hits, a sudden explosion of pyrotechnics erupts at the entrance ramp. The spotlights converge to illuminate Dean Harper. He walks down to the ring with his head held high and a wicked smile on his face. He jumps up onto the apron before springing on the bottom rope into the ring. Once in the center of the ring, Dean methodically removing his jacket and tossing it aside, revealing his tattooed muscular physique. The music fades, leaving only the sound of the crowdâs roar and Dean Harper standing in the center of the ring, ready for the battle ahead.}
Alison Valance: First down to the ringâŠFrom Sioux Falls, South Dakota standing at 6â2ââ weighing in at 185 pounds⊠DEAN HARPER!
Iyo Kenshin: I personally would never want to be in the ring with him myself.
Rayne: Thatâs because you are a coward.
{As the arena plunges into darkness, cold blue and deep purple lights faintly illuminate the space, casting long, eerie shadows. A thick, ghostly fog begins to roll down the entrance ramp, slowly swallowing the stage. The haunting melody of "Death Wish" by Royale Lynn begins to echo, the slow, brooding country tones filling the air like a dark omen. The audience falls silent, caught in the hypnotic spell of the moment. Suddenly, the shrill cry of a crow pierces the silence. On the massive Titantron, black-winged crows appear, circling in a slow, haunting rhythm as their caws grow louder, echoing through the arena. The video alternates between images of desolate landscapesâbarren trees, weathered gravestones, and fields of fogâwith crows perched ominously in each scene. From the shadows of the entrance emerges Mai Everstone herself, dressed in a long, black leather coat that sweeps the floor behind her as she walks. The coat is adorned with intricate lace details, mixing Black feathers are intricately woven. Her eyes are fiercely lined with black kohl, accentuating her piercing gaze. With each step, the sound of her boots hitting the metal ramp echoes in time with the songâs heartbeat. As she reaches the ring, Mai pauses, the mist still curling around her feet. With a slow, deliberate movement, she lifts her head and casts one last long look around the arena. The final note of "Death Wish" echoes in the air as the crows on the screen take flight, disappearing into the void as the lights flicker just as Mai flips over the ropes into the ring on her feet where she waits in her corner for the match to start.}
Alison Valance: Last to the ring, Spanish Fork, UtahâŠ. Standing at 5â2ââ weighing in at 101 pounds⊠Mai Everstone!
Iyo Kenshin: Mai seemed certainly motivated for this match.
Rayne: Yeah well, fighting for friends approval only gets you so far.
{The match begins, and Mai circles the ring cautiously, knowing that Dean Harper is unpredictable and violent. Dean, however, is in no rush, taunting her with a wicked smile, daring her to make the first move.}
Iyo Kenshin: Dean playing with his food.
Rayne: Itâs his way.
{Mai darts forward with a spinning heel kick, aiming to keep distance, but Dean ducks it effortlessly. He rebounds off the ropes and goes for a running forearm smash, but Mai leapfrogs over him, showcasing her agility. She follows up with a lightning-fast enziguri that connects with Dean's head, sending him stumbling backward.}
Iyo Kenshin: Right for the head!
Rayne: The head is the easiest place to get someone to bleedâŠ
{Mai capitalizes, hitting the ropes and launching herself at Dean with a springboard hurricanrana. The crowd pops as she flips Dean to the mat, her speed and technical prowess shining through. Dean smirks, wiping his mouth as he stands, the glint of danger in his eyes growing.}
Iyo Kenshin: I donât love that look.
Rayne: No one ever has.
{Dean suddenly charges at Mai, catching her off guard with a high-running dropkick that slams her into the corner. He follows up with brutal repeated knee strikes to her midsection, each strike more vicious than the last. Heâs not going for flashyâheâs going for pain. Mai crumples in the corner, winded.}
Iyo Kenshin: Mai is in danger.
Rayne: Well she signed up for this match.
{Dean drags her out of the corner by her hair and slams her face into the turnbuckle. He pulls her up and goes for a belly-to-belly suplex into the turnbuckles, but Mai manages to wriggle free mid-air and lands on the apron. Before Dean can react, she springboards back into the ring with a slingshot spear, knocking him down!}
Iyo Kenshin: Mai really is holding her own here.
Rayne: Reacting for survival is not holding her own.
{Mai's speed keeps her in control as she runs the ropes and goes for a low dropkick to Dean's knee, chopping him down to her level. With Dean now on one knee, Mai measures him up and delivers a stiff series of Muay Thai knees to his head and chest, trying to wear him down. Dean absorbs the blows with a crazed grin before countering with a sharp jawbreaker that sends Mai reeling.}
Iyo Kenshin: Oh, that might have hit harder then Mai was prepared for.
Rayne: No one expects a jawbreaker to be soft as a butterfly kiss.
{Dean wastes no time, whipping her into the ropes and catching her with a rebound German suplex that folds her in half. Heâs on her immediately, dragging her toward the apron and trapping her between the ring and apron cover. The crowd roars in anticipation as Dean delivers a brutal football kick to her head while sheâs defenseless.}
Iyo Kenshin: Ouch!
Rayne: Havenât seen that in a while.
{Mai crumples to the outside, clutching her head, but Dean isnât done. He climbs to the top turnbuckle, a mad gleam in his eyes. With no care for his own body, he leaps with a diving senton to the outside, crashing into Mai and sending both of them into the barricade.}
Iyo Kenshin: Fuck, that was hard.
Rayne: Maybe this is it?
{The referee checks on both competitors, but neither is bleeding yet. Dean stands, dragging Mai by the hair. He goes to throw her into the steel steps, but Mai reverses, using her agility to whip him instead. Dean crashes into the steps with a sickening thud.}
Iyo Kenshin: I heard that from here.
Rayne: YeahâŠyou have ears.
{Seizing the moment, Mai ascends the turnbuckle and waits for Dean to rise. She leaps, hitting a stunning diving crossbody block from the top rope, flattening Dean on the outside. The crowd is on their feet as she grabs a chair from under the ring. She raises it high, but hesitates for just a second.}
Iyo Kenshin: Oh, is Maiâs natural theatrics kicking in?
Rayne: Itâll kill her.
{Thatâs all Dean needs. He kicks the chair into her face, sending her sprawling. He grabs the chair, stalking her with sadistic intent. He swings it wildly, but Mai ducks, bounces off the barricade, and nails Dean with a springboard bulldog onto the chair!}
Iyo Kenshin: Chair shot!
Rayne: I bet he will feel that in the morning.
{Dean is down, and Mai looks for something more devastating. She sets up the chair, climbing the turnbuckle for her signature Murder of Crows. She leapsâbut Dean rolls away at the last second! Mai crashes into the steel chair, her back arching in pain.}
Iyo Kenshin: Wonderful Senton Splash!
Rayne: Are you just saying the moves? Really?
{Dean senses the end. He pulls her up and goes for his finisher, CLIPPED WINGS-- But Mai wriggles free, and with every ounce of energy left, she connects with a Shining Huracanrana PinâTHE FLOCK! The crowd explodes as Dean is planted.}
Iyo Kenshin: Oh!
Rayne: Sure, impressive but there are no pinfalls in this match.
{Dean quickly recovers, but Maiâs already running. She hits the ropes, looking for one last desperate move, but Dean cuts her off with a spinning side kick that knocks her down. He pulls her up and, with a devilish grin, hits her with a brutal Reality Break.}
Iyo Kenshin: An impressive standing moonsault fallaway slam.
Rayne: He can go farther, why isnât he?
{Mai looks dazed, and Dean smells blood. He reaches into his tights, pulling out brass knuckles. The crowd boos loudly as he stalks Mai. He swingsâbut Mai ducks at the last second! She hits a snap DDT, planting Deanâs face into the mat.}
Iyo Kenshin: Ouch!
Rayne: But not hard enough.
{Dean rolls to the outside, clearly frustrated, but Mai doesnât give him a chance to breathe. She launches herself over the top rope with a suicide dive, crashing into Dean and sending both competitors into the barricade again.}
Iyo Kenshin: Mai is not letting this go.
Rayne: Come on Dean, just fucking bite her already.
{As they slowly rise, Mai looks to finish Dean with one last high-risk move. She scales the barricade and leaps for a shooting star DDT, but Dean catches her in midair and counters with a vicious snake eyes onto the steel post. The sickening sound echoes through the arena.
Mai crumbles to the ground, dazed. Dean wipes his hand across her forehead, and when he pulls it backâblood.}
Alison Valance: Your winnerâDean Harper!
DING DING
Iyo Kenshin: Dean made Mai bleed. Thatâs it folks.
Rayne: I still feel he held back.
{Dean grins, raising his hands in victory as the referee calls for the bell. The crowd is a mix of cheers and boos as Dean stands over Mai, who clutches her forehead, blood trickling down. Shea O'Hara came rushing down to the ring, sliding in. Dean took four steps back from Shea who only took a moment to note that before focusing on Mai as the graphic for Odyssey flashes before the feed ends.}
Well howdy there pardner.