Meltdown Madness / Ascension Anarchy RP Pool

[Dave]

The Roulette Rounds are well and truly upon us as we hurtle towards the Lethal Lottery and the road to Kingdom Come once more. Meltdown Madness and Ascension Anarchy have long since been a staple on that route and this year will be no different.

Marketed as a couple of nights in the WZCW calendar where anything can happen, all options are on the table and everything is up for grabs. We have already heard about the change of GM and the change for Mid-Card Champions. But could even bigger changer be on the cards? Championships may be defended and won or lost.

One thing is for certain though... Nothing is for certain!

RP deadline is Tuesday the 12th of December at 23:59EST

 

[Hyorinmaru]

The same grainy black and white video as before comes in to focus and we see 'The Great' Milenko watching something on an old TV that's sitting on a metal stand. The camera slowly moves forward until we see that he's watchin a clip from the very first episode of Meltdown Madness over and over. Whether he's talking to the crystal skull in his hand or Edgar, who is standing silently next to the TV is anyone's guess.

] The Devilspawns music is heard over the PA but as DP stands over entranced looking at the injured Bowen as the officials come to ringside to check on reaper and Bowen DP looks over and isn’t satisfied at the destruction, he picks up the unconscious Bowen and throws him into the ring, he positions Bowen for another Devil Driver but is met by an unknown assailant running out of the crowd DP is met with a couple of punches and is thrown to the ropes as the unknown individual clotheslines him out of the ring, Reaper is back in limping slightly trying to take out the unknown man with a chair shot but is caught with a stiff boot and rolls out of the ring.

Copeland: Absolute Chaos tonight here in WZCW, the devilspawns destroyed a half unconscious Bowen and tried to end his career for good but thanks to this unknown assailant. Wait im getting something over my headset, no this man has a name Milenko, thanks to Milenko Bowen’s career and life was saved here tonight

Milenko surveys the damage as the crowd cheers, he picks up Bowen and looks at him asking him if he's ok showing Bowen compassion

Copeland: the debuting Milenko is helping Bowen up

Suddenly Milenko clotheslines Bowen

Copeland: What the hell is going on here?

Milenko sets Bowen up on the top rope and places him in position for Tempest and hits it off of the top rope leaving Bowen Laying the crowd boos are deafening as Milenko smiles and exits the ring as the EMTs enter checking on the injured Bowen.

I could watch this all day, he said with a sadistic smile on his face. How many people can say they started their WZCW career by not only taking out the reigning tag team champions but their own brother as well? Milenko waits for an answer as he again watches his younger self hit his brother with a Tempest from the top rope. That's enough Edgar, take it away. He watches as Edgar takes the TV away and comes back and stands next to him, staring straight ahead.

Edgar do you know what my favorite part of the holiday season is this year, he asks the man standing next to him. As he sits there he narrows his eyes. Don't be a fucking idiot Edgar. Why would I care about gift giving or joy? I swear you say stupid shit just to irritate me. He stops talking and tilts his head as he looks down at the skull in his hand. That's exactly right, Milenko says with a nod of his head. The Roulette Round is a time of Terror and Fear because no one knows what's going to happen. Champions could lose their newly won title or someone could have their career ended suddenly in a barbaric and bloody.

As Milenko talks a dark light appears in his eye but leaves just as suddenly when he whips his head around to glare at Edgar. Why are you worried about my career Edgar. I'm the one who ends the careers. Out of nowhere he jumps up and grabs Edgar by the front of his shirt. If you ever mention my recent loses again the next thing I cut off will be a lot more important than your tongue do I make myself clear? Milenko shoves Edgar away and watches him slither into the shadows as he sits back down and grumbles in anger. I can't believe the nerve of him even hinting at shit like that.

Milenko leans back in his chair and brings the skull up and looks it right in the eyes and smiles. I know, I'm excited too. I can almost taste the Fear that the unpredictability of the Roulette Round brings. He looks at the skull with a thoughtful look on his face as he thinks about the silent question he heard the skull ask. If I could pick a match it would be against Vox for his newly won Mayhem Championship. As he continue to look into the eyes of the infant sized skull a look of surprise crosses Milenko's face. Are you seriously asking why? I thought you were smarter than Edgar, Milenko sighed as he facepalms. While I wouldn't turn down any match, especially a title match, the Mayhem Championship is the one thing in WZCW that instills the most Terror and Fear. Vox has it but is unaware of the power he pulled down from atop that ladder at Unscripted.

Milenko closes his eyes as the entire WZCW roster flashes across the screen ending with a group shot of Constantine, Titus and Matt Tastic each holding their respective title with Vox in front of all of them with the Mayhem Championship. As the camera fades to black a pair of blood red eyes can be seen behind them as the camera fades to black.

 

[Hyorinmaru]

The camera slowly comes into focus and we see Tony and Gino sitting at a local Italian restaurant. Tony looks around and passes the suitcase with $10,000 he won at Unscripted. Don't worry about this money Ton', Gino tells him and he sets the suitcase next to his chair. We still have your father's accounts set up so we'll be able to hold on to this for you tax free. Thanks man, Tony says with a slightly uncomfortable look on his face. Before he can say anything else the waitress comes up to their table and gives Tony the Spaghetti and Meatballs he ordered and sets a plate of Veal Parmesan in front of Gino. They eat in silence for a few minutes when Gino looks up and asks him a question that took Tony a bit by surprise. The Family is throwing a little party and some were hoping you'd stop by for a little bit. It has been a while since you've seen everybody after all. Tony doesn't stop eating but his brow furrows as he thinks about what Gino is asking. It's been a while since I've seen everyone so I'll go, Tony said after he swallows the food in his mouth. I still haven't made my mind up about coming back though so if this is an attempt at swaying me that punch to the face I gave you will be the least of your worries. Gino nods as he chews on his food and they spend the rest of the meal just talking about nothing important. Once they're done Tony pays the bill and they walk out to their car. Tony gets in the passenger seat as Gino gets in the driver seat and starts the engine as Tony buckles up. As Gino drives off Tony think about how easy it is to slide back into old ways.

Once they get to the Social Club they walk inside and Tony stops in the doorway and looks around at the packed room. He immediately spots the Don Leo talking to his old friend Vito as well as a bunch of people he barely knew or didn't know at all. As soon as Leo sees him he waves him over with a smile. Tony walks over and gives him a respectful nod of his head which Leo waves off with a drunken wave of his hand. I get enough of that on a daily basis, he says with a slurred voice. This is a party after all. Tony smiles and glances over at Vito who grimaces and shakes his head and leads them all over to an empty table in the corner. What have you been up to lately, Leo asks as he takes a sip of wine that was on the table. No one but Gino has seen you in months. I've been keeping busy with my wrestling career Leo, Tony said with a hint of confusion as he keeps shooting questioning glances at Vito. Things haven't gone the way I wanted then to lately but with my big win at Unscripted I'm hoping things will turn around. The Roulette Round is coming up and that could be the break I need to show everyone I'm not a joke. Heat can be heard in Tony's voice but all Leo does is blink owlishly at him. What the hell are you talking about, he asks after staring off into space. I've never heard of a Roulette Round in wrestling. Is that like gambling in Vegas or somethin'? Kind of, Tony says with a chuckle. It's a time in WZCW where everything is completely random. I don't know who I'm going to face, what type of match it will be or if any title will be on the line. I could walk out World Heavyweight Champion or I could walk out with yet another loss on my record. Before he can say anything else he looks over at Leo only to see him passed out and snoring with wine glass in hand. With a look of disgust on his face Tony looks over at Vito. What the hell is this shit Vito, he asks in a heated voice. When I left Leo was a strong leader and The Family was the strongest out of the five. Now he's a drunk and everything my family worked for is about to fall apart! I'm sorry Tony, Vito says in an apologetic tone. Ever since you left the other Families have been pushing us hard. Leo here hasn't able to handle the pressure and he started drinking to cope. Then who's been running things, Tony demanded to know. Me an Gino have been doing the best we can but it's been difficult.. Before Tony can say anything the front door slams open and the NYPD comes rushing in and they cone straight for Tony. Anthony Mancini, said one of the officers as they walk up to the table. You're under arrest for the assault on Gino Rizzoli outside Giuseppe's Old World Butcher Shoppe. You have the right to remain silent and anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. As the officer finishes reading Tony his rights another handcuffs Tony and frog marches him out of the building as Gino comes running over. What the fuck is going on here, he demands to know as he blocks the door. You tell me Gino, Tony said with a glance at the bruise on his jaw. Let me make a phone call, Gino reminds him as he pulls out his phone. No shit Sherlock, Tony said as he gets marched out the front door and shoved into the back of a waiting police car. The officer gets into the driver seat and pulls into traffic and drives away.

How long am I going to be here, Tony demands of the officer standing in the corner of the interrogation room. It's been three hours already so either let me go or tell me why I'm here. Didn't they tell you when they brought you in, asks a familiar voice as the door opens. Tony glances over at who it is and rolls his eyes as he sees Agent Henderson closes the door and sits down on the other side of the table. Why am I not surprised? You're the one who had me arrested aren't you Derek? Agent Henderson ignores the banter and shuffles the papers he brought with him. What were you doing at Giuseppe's Old World Butcher Shoppe the other week, Henderson asks after a few minutes of paper shuffling. I was getting dinner, Tony tells him without missing a beat. Why else would someone go to a butcher shop? That's funny because when you left you didn't have any meat with you. There were out of veal, Tony said with a shrug. Agent Henderson goes to say something else but before he can the door slams open and Antonio Scarletti quickly walks in and sits next to Tony. My client is invoking his right to shut his mouth. Any questions you have you can direct them my way. Agent Henderson glares at both men for a second but quickly calms down. No questions, Agent Henderson said. But I would like to know why when I went in I saw Mrs. Giuseppe crying her eyes out and wouldn't tell me why. Maybe you can shed some light on what happened. Tony leans over and whispers something to Antonio who nods his head and looks back at Agent Henderson. We don't know exactly but according to my client Mrs. Giuseppe mentioned that her husband isn't doing well and they're in danger of going out of business. That would be a lot of stress on anyone especially an elderly woman don't you think? Henderson looks back and forth between the two men trying to catch them in a lie but growls quietly when he doesn't see anything in their eyes. OK he says with forced calm in his voice. How do you explain what you did to Gino after you left. Why would you punch your friend in the face? Tony chuckles as Antonio shakes his head in disbelief. Have you met Gino, Antonio asks Agent Henderson. The man is a bit of an asshole and probably deserved it. Agent Henderson sits there silently for a few minutes as Tony sees the anger mounting in the eyes of the FBI agent until it explodes out o mf him as he furiously shoves his papers onto the floor. I know you're back in your Father's chair Mancini, Henderson says in fury. I will do everything within my power to prove it and put you away for a very long time. That's enough Agent Henderson, Antonio said with heat in his own voice. If you don't I will not only talk to your superiors but sue you for harassment. Now if we're done here me and my client are leaving. He motions Tony to his feet and both head to the door but when they open it an officer blocks their path. The only place Mancini is going is a holding cell, Agent Henderson said with a smirk. There is that small matter of the assault charge after all. The officer handcuffs Tony a second time as the screw fades to black with Antonio telling Tony to worry and that he'll be out in time to make it to Puerto Rico.

 

[Spidey Revivey]

$$$ "Roulette Rounds, bay-bay! Gotta spin that wheel."$$$​

Batti spun the Beanboozled wheel with a flick of her finger. It clacked and came to a sudden halt on a brown jelly bean. She happily reached into the tin and plucked out the candy. She examined it, wondering if it was either the Chocolate flavor or Canned Dog Food. Her plushie Captain Claws watched with vacant eyes. Batti looked up at her old friend, who she hadn't seen in almost a year. She grinned from ear to ear, and plopped it in her mouth. She chewed, and gradually stopped. Batti's face went beet red as she hurdled over the tin can and her teddy bear. She slammed the bathroom door and retched.

"This a nasty game," a familiar voice stated, grabbing the wheel for his turn.

"We coulda went to a fuggin' casino..." Batti said from the rim of her toilet bowl. "Yeck."

"Nah. Closest one got me on a watchlist. I may have cheated at table craps a few times in my younger days. Don't worry your pretty lil' head over it though. I'm just glad to see you. Unscripted was off the chain. See what I did there?"

The sound of a commode is heard and Batti opened the door. She peered at her sensei, Action Saxton. He laughed heartily at his own joke before turning his attention back on the game. He spun the wheel, and it landed on blue.

She huffed. "That's some bakka bullshit! Toothpaste or Berry? The worst taste ain't even that bad."

He sorted through the candy and picked out a bean. To her delight, he twirled it on his finger, tossed it in the air, and caught it with his mouth. "Mmm. That's good toothpaste. Crest? Colgate? Pepsodent?"

Batti gave her mentor the stink eye. She gagged, and went for the wheel. She gave it a go, picked out a green, and spat it back out.

"Speaking of casinos and wheels, the Roulette Rounds should be soon. I know you can't really prep when you don't know who you'll be wrestling, but got any ideas on what you want to do? Carry around a chain perhaps?"

"Ha! No. Honestly, I'm not sure. I'm sort of just here right now, know what I mean? Like I defeated Kagura, the first Queen For A Day. It didn't make me better than her, though. She's still the Queen. Nothing changed, except maybe I have more of an ego coming into these Rounds. I feel it, deep down, that I'm ready to challenge for gold again. But what I'd like I guess is one more fight with Callie Clark."

Action sighed. "Worst thing you can do is get hung up on her. And besides, Matt Tastic is the Elite X Champion now. Even if Batti vs. Callie III happened, and you got the win, just like your fight with Kagura nothing will change. Why not Tastic? That'd be fun. Or hell, do the impossible: face Titus Avison and end that European Championship reign. Wasn't he your debut match here? Hell, better yet, outdo yourself. Make it Constantine vs. Batti. Go big or go home."

"Not like I have a choice to who I get to compete against," she said, biting her lip. "Though I hope it is somebody with a title."

"Doesn't everybody?"

"I think it's optional whether or not their titles would be on the line, which suuuuuuuuuucks." She rested her head on his shoulder in mock theatrics. "Maybe I'll face off against you."

"Maybe you'll fight Ramparte."

"Easiest W of my career. WZCW's runway ain't even wheelchair accessible."

They snickered. Batti's cell phone went off. Tyrone Blades texted her. When Action asked her how that relationship was going, he wasn't ready for the answer.

"Oh, the usual. Bonding. With nylon rope. Suspended over his bed. Blindfolded. Cherry red ballgag in my mouth. Tame stuff."

He stared at her wide eyed.

"I'm kidding," she teased. "...We don't use nylon."

It was then his own phone went off. He checked it, and frowned.

"Hate to leave us on our game and such a stimulating conversation, but I've gotta go. You don't be doing anything you're going to regret later, little lady. I once knew a guy that was into wearing a latex suit and a mask. Know what happened to him? Became a Tag Team Champion with me. Risky business. Know your limits, kiddo."

Batti Otaku and Action Saxton hugged. "Thank you for dropping in, sensei. I may knock bakka bitches out with chains now, but I'm still the same girl that climbed a mountain to be trained by you. You're always with me in spirit, whether I'm being dorky or when shit gets real. I owe you tons."

He beamed down at her. "You don't owe me anything, Batgirl. Just stay safe, and kick some butt."

When he was out the door and out of sight, Batti called Tyrone.

"Hey. Wanna play Beanboozled? It's Roulette Rounds after all."

____________________​

Truth was, she had no real cares in the world. The Roulette Rounds were hard to get ready for. Even seasoned veterans had difficulties with predicting what kind of opponent they'd see. Will it be a champion? A surprise return of a beloved icon? A staff member? Nobody knew for sure. So her mindset was "Why worry?" What would come will come. Vis Imperium had disbanded. There was no immediate threat to her. The Harbinger was her significant other, the QFAD was Kagura's but the last laugh was hers. Everything seemed perfect, and that calm before the storm played a big part in her public breakdown.

Batti treated herself by shopping at an outlet mall. The day was gorgeous and warm for a December. She went by herself, and when she looked back on that Saturday afternoon she would resent not taking Tyrone Blades or any of The Hollow Ones. Maybe then someone could have talked her through her moment, someone could have calmed her down. But ideal scenarios rarely happen in the real world.

She hit one of her favorite shops, The Candy Store. Batti walked out with Hefty bags full of various jawbreakers, peanut butter cups, licorice, gummy bears, and jelly beans. "Don't You Forget About Me" by Simple Minds played over the outdoor speakers, though she'd forget the irony in that later.

Bags in hand, she practically skipped passed wave after wave of mall rats.


♫ "Will you stand above me?
Look my way, never love me
Rain keeps falling, rain keeps falling
Down, down, down" ♫

A bearded man in an old Cerberus t-shirt walked by. At first, the shirt caught her attention. Even in the WZCW fandom, tag team shirts weren't as popular as they used to be, except the crosshairs one. And in a fleeting second her eyes traveled up to the face of what she thought was an old fan. Maybe he would recognize her or something and maybe she'd give an autograph. She was riding high on ego.

But she knew him, and her heart stopped. When she called out his name, there was no vibrance in her voice. No color. The cheer was gone. Everything felt jarring.

"...Ramparte?"

The man kept walking, swallowed up into the busy crowd. He didn't seem to have noticed her. Batti stood visibly shaking. There was no wheelchair. How?

"Ramparte!"

She was running. The bags were no longer in her hands, she had spilled them in her daze. Batti glided passed shopper after shopper. He was heading to the parking lot.

Minutes passed. Now nobody was in her way. She screamed.

"Ramparte! Please it-it's Batti! Turn around!"

He did. Their eyes met. There he was, clear as day, standing. He was a lot taller than she remembered. His eyes, though. They weren't what she recalled. Even in their breakup, there was a flare of kindness to them. Now they were just eyes.

"Beatrice," he answered flatly.

"Y-you've never called me that. Umm you're standing. Like, without help."

"Observant," he said, and turned back around. He unlocked his car, a white Honda Civic. She wanted to rush to him, to ask why he was being so cold to her, how he can walk, and why he called her by her actual name. Part of her even wanted to hug him. But her legs froze. She couldn't even cry out. It wasn't a panic attack, but she was overwhelmed by the suddenness of it all. He started the car, and without another word to her or a glance at her, he drove off.

She stood there, alone. Confused. Angry. Upset. In tears. Clutching her heart. Having troubles breathing. Ramparte was well again and wanted nothing to do with her. With her emotions all over the place, she buckled and fell on the asphalt. Memories flooded her mind.

"Rammikun..."

Batti didn't understand why she felt the way she did. She had Tyrone Blades now, who was a gentleman. The past was dead. But...

Several came to her aid to make sure she was okay. Had she blacked out? On top of everything else, the young superstar felt embarrassed too. She dusted herself off, and dug for her phone. When she spoke, her voice started to return to normal.

"Tyrone, you're not going to believe this..."

 

[Jeff Deliverer of Mail]

--A few days after Unscripted ----- ​

Mark Keaton’s mansion in Toronto Ontario Canada, it’s 5:30 PM in case you were wondering.


Remarkable Mark Keaton sat in his chrome, spike covered throne in his sitting room. He wasn’t recovering from a party, he wasn’t depressed or doped out of his mind, he was shell shocked. He pulled a heavy, brown wool blanket over his shoulders in case any one of his old maids came along to sneak a peek of him in his underwear. He hadn’t heard a peep from any of the maids or the butler in hours, he knew why. The place was as quiet as a tomb, except for a clock that ticked along in the nearby hallway.

Tic….tic…..tic…tic…..tic….​

What happened? Mark thought as he stared at an AC/DC poster placed near the unused fireplace. We were in control, we had Titus and Blades on the ropes, Big Bad Roady was doing what I told him to do before the match, but it all went south. We lost and the result was an innocent man getting beaten up in the middle of the ring while the whole fucking roster watched, HE’S NOT AN ATHLETE!

“Defenseless!” Mark threw the blanket off of his muscular frame and jumped to his feet, he kicked over a nearby nightstand sending his ashtray spilling to the floor along with some empty mugs. Mark clenched his jaw and made a fist, he paced around the room muttering to himself, after a moment he realized that it was too cold for this and jumped back in his chair inside the warm comfort of his wool blanket.

What a huge goddamn hole Vis Imperium leaves in WZCW now, the only thing interesting in wrestling is now gone. Motherfucker! Why couldn't that bastard hobble down and help us too, that motherfucker!Motherfucker, it’s not all about you! I said that, man! Ha ha ha, I really had the nerve to finally stand up to that bastard. Mark smirked and pulled the blanket tighter around his neck. It felt good to finally tell the dude what needed to be said. But Mark knew he valued his friendship with Cooper more than ever, he called and texted the man for the last day or so but got no reply. Mark figured the former world heavyweight champion was probably buried in a gym somewhere in Australia, vowing to become a physical god and take back what was taken from him.

The fall of Vis Imperium still hurt Mark, he knew it hurt Cooper too in his own way. Xander Labelle left the company entirely but Mark knew the guy had one foot out of the door already, it didn’t make it any easier for him. He spied the present Labelle left him sitting on the couch across the room, wrapped in a sparkling red wrap and a small bow on top. Mark stood up and shuffled across the room, he retrieved the present and quickly made his way back to his warm base on the padded, chrome throne. He read the card on top…..

-- Hey Mark, it was a wild ride while it lasted wasn’t it? Here’s a little something you’ll enjoy, I valued my time in Vis Imperium and I hope I helped you along in your career.

- The World’s Greatest Mind-

He really did, the man taught him the art of the negotiation. He taught him the immeasurable value of having somebody like Big Bad Roady on the outside of the ring to add that extra factor in his matches. Meatball said he had to go to Philly and deal with one of his ex wives, the dude has more girl problems than I did in my teens. Mark smirked as he tore the wrapping off of the present.

Aww, he didn’t.

Mark almost teared up, he didn’t realize how much his company meant to Labelle until now. Xander’s prized golden chess set was boxed neatly before him, every piece was tucked neatly away in it’s own groove and polished to a shine with the board reflecting light off of the little squares. It was a beautiful set. He remembered Xander teaching him how to play as they discussed what was going on in WZCW and Vis Imperium. They had talked long about Justin Cooper’s rapidly changing attitude and obsession with the World Heavyweight Title. Neither man would dare speak against the Champ at the time but knew there was an even deeper power struggle going on between Mr. Banks and Cooper. It hung in the air at every V.I meeting, every V.I conference and scheduled merchandise meeting, every talk with either man ended up with the impression that one hated the other. It was things that were said, facial expressions used and just the feeling that things were going to eventually explode someday.

Like the Banks Volcano that’s currently building up. Mark could only imagine the mood Mr. Banks would be in right now, busted up in a hospital bed somewhere with nurses wiping his ass for him, vowing to make Mark Keaton pay for failing to prevent Vis Imperium from going down.

That is going to be one shit show when that dude comes back.

Mark carefully put the golden chess set on the floor and sighed. The time of riding the V.I machine was over, the whole locker room is going to feed on him now, an exposed former bully from V.I who puffed his chest out and made EVERYONE miserable in the back.

I’m so screwed. Ha ha ha! Ahh fuck it, I love chaos anyway.

The madness of the Roulette Rounds were now here, the one set of shows on the calendar that could make people forget that he was once one of those guys that bullied everyone around. The nervous energy of the roulette rounds was a favorite time of year for a lot of the wrestlers, you could get a title shot out of nowhere!

I remember last season man, a younger, dumber version of RMK got Reynolds in an Elite Championship match, lost that one because I was too confident in my striking game and lost to a submission move man. I really hated that guy.

Tic….tic…..tic….tic….tic……tic….. ​

Mark could see red and blue light reflections coming from the main entrance windows.

Well, I guess this is it. Time to shed the V.I skin and go back to the V.I less RMK.

Mark stood up and threw the wool blanket off of himself. He pulled a Voltron T-shirt on and threw on a pair of jeans.

DING DONG!!! ​

Knock knock knock!!!​

Mark lit a smoke and threw on a leather jacket.

Tic….tic….tic…..tic…..tic…..​

DING DONG!!!!​

Knock knock knock!!!​

Mark opened a closet and picked up a huge gym back stuffed with clothes.

DING DONG!!!​

Tic….tic….tic……tic……tic….​

“Hey Mark! You in there? This is Sheriff Grant from the Toronto Police Department. I’m here to…”

Mark ripped open the door.

“Ya I know, escort me from the premises. I got the letter jackass, I can read dude!” Mark heaved the gym bag over his shoulder and walked off of the steps of the Vis Imperium property.

A dozen moving employees hurried past him, some high WZCW officials walked past as well, interested in Mr. Banks property. Another cop came up and walked next to Mark.

A group of RMK groupies waited for him in a neon van.

Sexy blondes, my favorite.

Mark flicked his smoke and told the cop that he’ll be alright and won’t need an escort or anything, he will cooperate. The cop nodded and returned to his squad car. The groupies called for him and he raised a finger as he gave his mansion one last look.

A lot of memories in this mansion, good ones and bad ones man. This house was everything I wanted out of Vis Imperium. I guess I’ll just have to move on to the next chapter.

A WZCW staff member ran out of the house, he looked pale and had a brown smear all along the side of his suit.

“Why is there human SHIT all over the floor?!!?!? MAAAARK!!!!” The man screamed.

Mark turned and nodded to the women, he jumped in the van and they peeled off into the night.

 

[Da Prophet]

Stumbling through the hallways, his vision blurred, in a total haze as Justin Cooper pushed backstage workers to the side, his speech slurred, and his footing slowly slipping away. His own weight barely supported as he crashed into a nearby wall, his face pressed against it and a smear of blood staining the otherwise white surface.

“Can we get some help over here? We need a trainer for Justin Cooper, he has lost too much blood,” shouted one among the masses that has gathered to see the fallen champion.

HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA

They gathered to laugh and stand triumphant over him, after all these months they would finally have their day. That was what Justin saw as he looked up from the ground, the blood soaking into his eyes causing a burning sensation, his body had betrayed him in battle – he was alone.

“No! Keep your trainer. I do not want help from any of you,” spat Justin, pushing himself off the ground and standing on wobbly legs.

“You need help. Look at the state of you. You’ve can barely walk, Justin.”

It was another from the group that surrounded him, this one stepped forward and grabbed his arm to aid his travels. Justin refused, shoving the man to the ground and turning on him, spitting words like a venomous snake who is corned.

“I said, no! That lot of you can go to hell. You pretend to give me aid when in reality I see it in your eyes. This is nothing but a jest at my expense, and one that you have been waiting over a year to take part in. I am no joke,” Justin yelled, turning towards the larger group as the man he pushed to the ground scurried away.

Once again, Justin could feel his body pulling him to the ground. He refused, not now he thought, showing his determination to not appear weak in front of those he believed wished him to appear so.

“I am the greatest wrestler in the world. Show me the respect I have earned and get out of my fucking way! Move,” Justin cried out, the crowd parting thereafter and none made eye contact with the man as he walked through.

HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA

His right leg limped behind, slowing his pace down as he fought a war within himself to remaining standing on his way to the locker-room. The end of the hallway was his goal, his body taunting him, blood drying upon his face, his long-time injured knee began to burn once more, and his vision moved as a single wave.

“Keep going… don’t you fucking fall… almost there,” he whispered to himself through gritted teeth, battling pain unlike anything he had ever sustained.

Justin reached the locker-room, it was private, specifically for Vis Imperium and on this occasion, it was empty. That was perfect. Justin had no desire to sit with his so-called teammates, they had disrespected him in public, the cameras rolling and the world had no doubt seen it. The thought of Vis Imperium made his stomach turn, a bunch of hacks who had been carried on his back for months.

HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA

In the corner of the room stood a monitor, it displayed the entrances of the main event – Vis Imperium’s fate would be decided while Justin Cooper sat in their locker-room. He took no part in the match, he didn’t care either way and his mind was far from the tales of Vis Imperium and Mr. Banks. While he showered, Justin rubbed his shoulders, bruises already appearing, his back marked with cuts, his face sliced on the forehead, the water pouring into it like salt. Justin found it hard to drink, opening his mouth allowing the water to enter but when he went to swallow, the water kicked back up, his body fighting him again.

After showering and removing his wrestling gear, Justin sat on a stool and prepared to leave. His things were gathered, placed in a gym bag and the match continued. It was then that Justin heard a knock at the door, his head turned from packing his bag and looked toward the door.

“Is my car ready?” Justin said, he picked up the bag and wrapped the sling over his shoulder, standing up and making his way toward the door.

“Hello, it’s Leon Kensworth. Justin, I’m wondering if I can have a quick word about what happened tonight?”

The former World Champion, the thought irked him greatly, stood stagnant for a moment. His face crinkled in a mix of anger and pain, his hands shaking, the cut on his forehead oozing puss now. Then, Justin stepped toward the door and opened it, finding Leon on the other side with an anxious look about him.

“Oh, are you leaving already?” Leon asked, his anxiousness replaced by confusion.

“My match is done. Why would I hang around?” Justin said, refusing to look at Leon. “This company has taken enough from me tonight. Surely they can spare me a few extra minutes to lick my wounds in peace without being hounded by pestering reporters?”

“I thought you’d wait to see the result of the main event. It’s happening right now,” Leon said.

“I know. Do you think me a fool, Leon? Are you hear to laugh as everyone else has as I walked to the locker-room? It’s funny,” Justin answered, finally looking at Leon.

“I survived Hell in a Cell, a structure so dangerous that only a handful of people have ever competed in it, I do so against a man who is in the WZCW Hall of Fame and yet people like you take this opportunity to laugh at my shortcomings. Well, go on! Have your laugh, Leon! Take in your moment to live in the failure of my night because I promise, I fucking vow on my life that this will not happen ever again!”

Kensworth stood in stunned silence as Justin wobbled, the passion he showed taking whatever strength he had remaining out of him, falling against the wall and sliding down to the ground.

“Oh my god. I should get help,” stuttered Leon, he tried to leave but Justin grabbed him by the wrist and pulled him back.

“I will not give them the privilege of seeing me in this state more than once. You will do no such thing, Leon. I might be weak now but soon, I will be healed and when I am, if you were to seek medical attention and shame me to those fools, I’d take it as a personal insult and have to return with an appropriate act of… aggression. Do you understand?” Justin said, his voice soft and faint as he eyelids fluttered up and down.

“You are not well, Justin. Hell in a Cell takes more than its fair share from every competitor who steps inside it. You need to see the trainer, we can get you an ambulance and you’ll be taken care of at the hospital.”

Justin spat on the ground next to him, his fingers feeling his stomach… it was absent gold. He missed the feeling already. The cold touch of the leather on his skin, the weight of the title around his waist and the feeling of his name etched in gold upon the name plate – it felt so soothing beneath the touch of his fingertips.

“I will not go the hospital. I have a car coming. Help me stand, Leon.”

Leon hesitated for a moment but the sight of Justin in pain on the cold cement floor was enough to drive Leon into action. After a few moments of struggle, Justin stood with his back against the wall and they began to walk towards the parking lot. As they walked, every few steps Justin would lean on Leon, bracing himself for a fall that never came.

HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA

“I believe you had questions, Leon. Ask away,” Justin said, the sound of nearby workers muttering under their breath was magnified. He knew they were talking about him, laughing – they all were.

“Why are you leaving before the main event is finished? Do you not care about the fate of Vis Imperium? You are the leader, Justin.”

“I haven’t cared about the group for a long time, Leon. They were a means to an end. It was about me. Vis Imperium lost its way when the focus switched to Mr. Banks and his bullshit with Ty. I had the World Championship, the most powerful position in professional wrestling, and instead of focusing our assets on securing that forever, Banks wanted to play puppet master with Ty.

Mark and Xander were pulled into it. They got so caught up in this war between Vis Imperium and WZCW that they lost sight of the bigger picture. The success of Vis Imperium was never going to be about if Banks was in control or if Ty was still in the company. The future was secured so long as I held the World Championship. I was the key, they all failed to realise it. The history books will tell you that Vis Imperium died when Ty Burna and Titus defeated Mark Keaton and Xander LeBelle, but it died the moment I lost the World Championship to Constantine.”

They reached the edge of the parking lot, Justin leaned against a metal barricade and waited for his car. He couldn’t see it, so he continued to humour Leon and his questions.

“You have no faith in them winning?”

Justin laughed, it hurt and caused him to clutch his ribs.

“Without me? As I said, Vis Imperium died before any of those four men stepped into the ring,” Justin confirmed, his tone harsh and his eyes defiant.

HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA

“It’s the first time since February that you aren’t WZCW World Heavyweight Champion. What’s it feel like, Justin?”

There was a long pause for this one. The thought had entered Justin’s head multiple times, he pushed it back whenever it appeared but now it had drilled in, poisoning him from within.

“I don’t know,” Justin responded, it was all he could muster.

In his own mind, Justin was more alone now than he ever had been. The World Title had been his identity for the entire year. He was the main event, the top guy, he defied expectations but on this night, the night he fell, he had once again done what the world expected – he was supposed to fall to Constantine.

Each time he won, defending the title, he felt a rush unlike anything he had experienced before. Justin Cooper was the man who was never going to be anything. A seven year veteran who had played around the mid-card, until he shocked the world. A fluke they said, so he did it again. Beginner’s luck, so he did it again. Repeatedly, Justin Cooper reigned over the competition, legends fell, myths were debunked and even super saiyans were left without hope. Yet, Justin had been passed over for the Hall of Fame in favour of Constantine, he was often regulated to segments other than the opener in favour of Titus Avison. His reign while great would be overshadowed by the reign of a man that Justin had idolised and defeated.

“Was it all for nothing?” Justin muttered, he stood up and screamed, falling to his knees.

HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA

“What is it? Are you hurt?” Leon asked, he was completely out of his depth in the madness of the man.

“I have fought through the best this company has to offer, Leon. I had answered every challenge put to me and now they laugh. I’ll give them something to laugh at, Leon! I’ll have them laughing when I tear this whole fucking company down to get my title back! I don’t care who I have to go through, I want my damn rematch! Do you fuckers hear me?” Justin screamed into the night, the parking lot echoing his voice.

HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA

“Justin, it’s just you and I here. Nobody is laughing at you,” Leon said, trying to calm him down.

“They’ll hear, Leon. Let ‘em fucking hear me now. You think I’m done? You’ll need to fucking kill me, boys! We’ve got the roulette rounds coming up, ask me about them? Come on Leon, ask me about the roulette rounds – it doesn’t matter how the wheel spins because whoever walks out with the World Title, I got next!”

Justin staggered to his feet, looking at Leon with wild eyes, approaching him and tapping the side of his head.

HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA

“They’ve been waiting for me to fall, Leon. I’m down right now but soon I shall rise… up I will go and back to the top of the mountain like a phoenix rising into the night’s sky. I will be the moon after a long day, putting out the flames of John Constantine and replacing it with the freezing night air. I’ve seen it in their eyes, Leon. They were waiting for me to lose, everyone in the locker-room… I saw it.”

“Justin…” Leon said, taking a few steps back.

Justin turned, shouting up into the sky wildly.

“Keep laughing! I hear you, keep laughing while you can. I will take back the World Title, it belongs to me. It’s is me! I need it. I need it. I… need… it. What am I without it. I will get it back, yes. Yes… I will. They are jealous, it’s in their eyes… jealous of me. I deserve it. I’m the greatest. Leon! They will see. You will see! You and your eyes… your eyes.” Justin said, as he stepped closer to Leon.

HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA

“Thank you for your time, Justin.” Leon said, turning and making his way for the door.

“You have the look, Leon! I see jealously in your eyes! DO NOT LAUGH AT ME, LEON! I will get the World Title back. Do you all hear me? At the roulette rounds I will spin that wheel and then I’ll be laughing, I’ll be laughing when I get my title back. Yes, we’ll all laugh. Not at me. No, never at me. I'll be laughing at them. Yes, at them.”

The car for Justin pulled up, he remained frozen and let it pass on by. Slowly, Justin sat on the ground, his back against the wall of the parking lot and clutched his gym bag close. The sound of laughter echoing in his head… and yet nobody else could hear it.

HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA

“Please, don’t laugh at me.”

 

[ShinChan]

~Chapter 13: Unpredictability~​

Another opportunity came. And then went while Yemrez failed to grab it. Another loss in a match where stakes were high. Yemrez was visibly upset about it.

However, it was not the end of the world for her. She wasn't gonna just sit and cry about the past failures. You don't ruin your present as well as future by over thinking about the past failures, do you? Yemrez won't. Before The Calling, she may have thought just about the negative outcomes she has suffered since joining WZCW. But after The Calling, she's a lot mature now. Introspecting herself. Contemplating where she failed to capture the victory. All thanks to Goddess Pikne.

Roulette Rounds are next. And getting a bit of advice from Goddess is always helpful. Yemrez recalled what Goddess Pikne said. Not the first time though. She had been thinking over Goddess' advice since many days. Goddess Pikne had advised her to face the defeat without any regret or shame. Surely, Yemrez lost. But, she actually won as well. Life is all about learning, no? And Yemrez learnt something even when she was defeated. Failures lead to learning. You may never learn while winning what losing will teach you.

Goddess Pikne had also encouraged to know her opponents more. Not just what they showed. But also what they hid. Everyone can see what's being shown. But who wants to see what's hidden? Something that's non-existent for most of the people. That's what Yemrez yearns to find out now.

Yemrez always took advises to her heart. After all, she's all about the heart. In this long journey, she was doubted a lot. Termed as generic. Termed as bland. Someone who doesn't have any character. Someone who's a choker much like her inspiration Eve Taylor. Someone who just shows off her love for her country. Someone who's ignorant about her body because of the abundance of the tattoos. Someone who fails more than anyone else.

But that's not the truth. That's just what seems as the truth. The truth was that she's nowhere near bland or generic. She has a strong character and it was pretty evident as well. But if someone deliberately wants to close eyes to the obvious truth, she can't do anything about that. She was told that wrestling isn't what she should do. And then she reached the semifinals of Gold Rush Tournament. She was told that weight lifting isn't what she should do. And then she won numerous medals and more importantly, so much respect all over the world while representing her country Estonia as proudly as someone could. She never showed off her love. You don't need to show off the truth, do you? Truth always comes out. No matter how much someone tries to hide the truth. And the truth is that she actually loves her country. Why would she represent it with her head held high in this huge world consisting of 7.5+ Billion people? Tattoos ain't any disrespect to her body. They are just some useful add-ons. She isn't ashamed of any tattoo. She is just proud of herself as well as her country.

She has been an inspirational human being to lots of people. Inspiration can do wonders. Inspiration is like what light is to darkness. Just like what Yemrez is to most of the WZCW wrestlers. Be it Justin Cooper, Titus Avison or anyone else. Their status or achievements can't over shadow the fact that they turned to darkness. And therefore, their success isn't based on their credentials. It's based on their manipulative skills. And WZCW isn't about manipulation. It's about wrestling skills. About determination. About will power. About Right against Wrong. Wrong may dominate initially, but Right always has the last laugh.

One could see the recent example of Vis Imperium getting demolished. Karma isn't partial. You can't buy it. All you can do is do right and Karma will do right to you. Justin Cooper was the one who threw Constantine out of Vis Imperium. And who defeated Justin Cooper now? Constantine. Karma, you know. It comes back full circle. Yemrez may be losing but she isn't stooping down. Just to get victories which are meaning less if you didn't earn them. Just imagine how great Justin Cooper would've been if he didn't betray his fans. But he isn't great.

Yemrez also lost to Constantine. Fair and square. Justin also lost to Constantine. Fair and square. What's the difference? Constantine was 100% while facing Yemrez. Constantine was broken while facing Justin. So, basically, Yemrez couldn't defeat Constantine when he was at his best. And Constantine defeated Justin Cooper while being in worst condition. That's the big difference. Yemrez has nothing to be ashamed of. Justin? Well. Everything.

The former World Champion is just a big example of why someone should never embrace darkness. At least, Yemrez won't.

Roulette Rounds. Unpredictability. Nothing new if you actually understand life, no? Life is unpredictable as well. You don't know what's gonna happen tomorrow. Just like Rouette Rounds.
Yemrez doesn't know who she will face. No one knows except God. Life is a helluva roller coaster ride. Ups and downs. Yemrez could face Constantine for World Heavyweight Championship. Or anyone else. Uncertain foes. Uncertain allies. Anything could happen. So, why worry about something that isn't your hands. Some things are for sure though. Yemrez won't give up. Yemrez won't back down from a fight. Yemrez won't stoop down just for winning. Yemrez won't embrace darkness. Yemrez won't quit. Yemrez will give her best. Yemrez will try the hardest to win. Yemrez will be fair and square. Yemrez will be determined. And Yemrez will win because she can.

 

[Dave]

14th of April, 2004
St Louis, Missouri

It was a cool spring day in the city of St Louis. A day that ought to have acted as a precursor for what John Constantine was offering. The incumbent Senator had been a breath of fresh air for the, admittedly, short period of time that he had held office. People liked him, there could be no doubt about it. He was young, intelligent and charismatic. What's more, he had delivered on promises set out in his pre-election manifesto. There were more jobs, better infrastructure in St Louis in particular, and more oversight on what citizens deemed to be “public services”. So when it came time to re-elect their Senator for the next term, odds were very short on John Constantine being the man who would win the popular vote.

Hindsight will tell a different story of the previous term, however. Regardless of results, Constantine had worked outside of the system and would be held against his actions. His relationship with one of his aides would come under the microscope and, more importantly, his relationship with his citizens would begin to crumble. But that would be a story for another day altogether. On this day in 2004, John Constantine had achieved what he set out to do and he had did it in style. With an 83% turnout and a 76% share of the popular vote, Constantine was put back into office behind a wave of momentum. A wave that, some thought, would wash all the way to the White House and the highest office in the land.

Truly, at that point, Constantine felt as though he could do no wrong. Even when his actions were punishable but hidden - Untouchable was he...

Constantine: Thank you all for coming out here today, ladies and gentlemen.

At a gathering of his supporters the day after his bi-election. Constantine took the stage. The marquis outside had been an inspired act by his campaign team. The truth of the matter was that no indoor venue would have been suitable to house the turnout. And even in the cool April air, Constantine seemed like a ray of sunshine.

Constantine: It's been a long road to this point, hasn't it? For everyone on my team, the road has been even longer and even more treacherous. But I want to take you back 5 years ago. 5 years ago last November, I sat in my office fresh out of college with a degree framed on my wall. I looked it up and down and thought about what it really meant. I had worked so hard to achieve it I often forgot about what I wanted to achieve afterwards. My father always wanted me to be an accountant like he was. My foot would have been in the door of his company and I would have, no doubt, had a very comfortable existence. Not ground-breaking by any means... But comfortable.

Constantine stops for a moment, his breath hanging in the air and his supporters hanging on every word as he spun a trademark yarn.

Constantine: As I sat in my office that night, I thought for the first time about what I really wanted to achieve with my life. I had a comfortable child hood, for sure. Did I ever have to worry about where the next meal was coming from? No. But, just like everyone else, I took my blows. But my whole life led up to that point. The point where I had finally achieved something worthwhile and would now stand on my own two feet.

Again, the newly-returned Senator stops.

Constantine: But the achievement was tainted. I was given everything I could ever need to get to that point. I had every advantage given to me behind an embarrassment of riches. Could I have managed that on my own? Perhaps. But there were so many people that missed out on the education I had simply because they couldn't afford to pay their tuition. In what United States of America should that be acceptable? It was in that moment that I realised that my true calling in this life was to make sure people could have all the same doors open to them as I had opened to me.

A huge cheer goes around the assembled masses as a wide smile begins to appear on the face of the young politician.

Constantine: That night, I started to assemble a team that would get me towards the goal of being a decision maker in this state. It was so hard sometimes, I can't even explain it to you. Trying to upset the apple cart and reinvent the wheel was something that people didn't especially want in political circles. But the drive and hunger that me and my team showed them illustrated that we weren't going away. Change was coming to this great state! And now, 5 years later, I am proud to say that we are well on the way to making those dreams I had in my office a reality!

Another huge cheer goes around the audience for Constantine's words, more proof of his natural charisma.

Constantine: If it hadn't been for the hunger and desire of me and my team during those tough times, we wouldn't be in the position that we are now, there is no doubt about it. My father often taught me that desire is the starting point of all achievement. It isn't a hope or a wish but rather something pulsating that continually drives you forward. And when the hunger is gone, your hope of achieving anything is gone.

An obligatory round of applause rings out through the crowd as Constantine's tone is more flat and thoughtful.

Constantine: So here we are again. We've been re-elected on the back of one of the best returns from an electorate in this State's history. The world is at my feet and, of course, that means that people will try and run us down. They will try and stop the momentum that we have built over the last 5 years. I was asked by a journalist the other day about my plans if I was to be re-elected yesterday. And one word that kept coming up was hunger. I am so hungry to make my dreams for this state a reality.

Constantine smiles as an another loud cheer goes around the assembled crowds.

Constantine: I have lowered tax for most working class families. I have invested in the school system vigorously over the last two years. I have increased the number of jobs in and around St Louis at a rate that no one thought possible. I have put my faith in all of you to make this State the best state in the United States and, in return, you have put your faith in me to keep delivering for you. The hunger in me has not diminished now that I have, seemingly, done what I set out to do. The fire in my stomach still burns for more success. Because in the United States of America, if you are content with what you have, then you are in the minority. That is not the attitude that this country was founded on and it is not the attitude that is shared by the man standing in front of you now.

The tone and pace of the Senator's voice continues to rise until it is a crescendo of noise and emotion – mirrored completely by those who support him.

Constantine: Have I achieved more than most? Yes, I have! But make no mistake, there is still so much more to achieve and I intend to be the man who does it all! Thank you!

And with that, Constantine was finished. A statement to everyone who supported him and, more importantly, to everyone who doubted him. From a young age, Constantine was taught never to stop with what was comfortable and it was a lesson that he never forgot. When it seemed comfortable, Constantine worked harder than anyone to keep it that way. Complacency was the enemy of achievement and Constantine would never allow himself to be complacent.

And now that he had re-captured the WZCW Heavyweight Championship, he was going to push himself harder than anyone ever could or would. If his body broke in the process, then so be it. Headlining Kingdom Come in his last ever match was what spurred him on now more than anything else. And to do that he knew he had to do it as Heavyweight Champion. His battles with Vis Imperium and Justin Cooper were over for now. He had won. And just like in 2004, people were beginning to question his desire and his hunger for the challenges that lay before him.

But just like in 2004, Constantine was ready for anything that would be thrown at him. Desire was the starting point of all achievement, after all. And Constantine wanted it more than you could ever imagine...

 

[Ty Burna]

The sins of many begin only at the dusk of night, the righteous believe themselves walled off to the temptations the darkness, and yet their own egos beguile them to the very darkness they claim to hold contempt for. It is in this night we find the Hollow One Tyrone Blades, sitting up in bed with his hair let loose and wild around him. The ember of a lit cigarette burns away that darkness for but a moment as he exhales slowly, another sleepless night. Though he found himself victorious finally after a year long war, old habits died hard. Next to him is his muse, a woman that sparked a curiosity in him, the very definition of his antithesis, and yet someone that was capable of forcing a change inside him. A realization that perhaps he wasn't meant to be forever in the shadows, that he could be the beacon other could look towards. It was her after all that turned to him in her time of need, and he did the same, finding comfort in someone he considered pure. Batti shifted in her sleep, turning towards him and her arm lazily falling across his waist. A small smile forms on his face, something he could finally do without effort in so long. He was the real hero for once, the one that banished away the bad guys and got the girl. He could write the history in such a fashion, he was the victor after all, but in reality he was just as fucked up as everyone else. He knew deep down this wasn't a war for the soul of WZCW, it was petty revenge, a deal gone wrong. The glamorous sacrifice of the hero, willing to fight for what was right, really he just wanted to crack a few skulls to get payback. But he was human like the rest. He went with the motion, garnered the support, and got what he wanted. Even his relationship with Batti grew from devastating back stabs from both Stacey Madison and Ramparte. In truth they were both hurt individuals who found solace within one another, sounding boards for each other, not to mention outstanding physical chemistry. The Hollow One contemplates further when soon she stirs from her sleep, yawning loudly as she rubs her eyes open, looking up at him as he sets aside his own guilts and sins for a moment to enjoy the moment.

Batti: You're still awake?

Tyrone: Bad habit I picked up. I don't think I've slept more than 4 hours in a night in years.

Batti groans a bit as she pushes herself up. Tyrone ashes his cigarette, the lingering trails of smoke disappearing into the room as he brushes his hair back out of his face. She looks up at him, leaning her head against her shoulder.

Batti: You look lost in thought. What's on your mind Blades-sama?

Tyrone: Nah it's nothing girl, when you're as restless as me you can't help but let your mind race.

She sits up more, still feeling the effects of her match against Kagura. He never dispelled the notion that this was an easy business, though it was clear she was picking up on that rather quickly as she rubs the back of her neck, his eyes admiring her form even under the blankets as she yawns once more.

Batti: Tyrone, you won, you don't have anything else to worry. Banks is gone, Vis Imperium is dead, but you've been somber the past few days. Titus and Jones went off and have been celebrating since, why don't you join them tomorrow?

Tyrone: I'm afraid of what I might do now Batti. Everyone's waiting for the other shoe to drop now. They helped me get rid of Banks, and now they're waiting for the war monger I used to be to come back and take over once again, jump from the pot right into the kettle type shit you know? Can y'all blame them though? One dictator gets overthrown, another takes their place.

Batti listens intently, her eyes finding his as she leans up and kisses him before slapping him on the back of the head as she pulls away. She shakes her head as she adjusts the blankets around her, a small laugh escaping her.

Batti: You idiot. You're not the same person you were back then. I wasn't around back then, but I've seen the videos, and the man I'm with right now isn't that person. You wanted to free WZCW from Banks and Vis Imperium, and you're certainly a far more caring person now.

Tyrone: Batti, I quite literally just bashed someone's skull in with a baseball bat shortly after beating him half to death.

Batti: Yeah but you did it for a good cause.

Tyrone rubs his eyes in disbelief as he Batti can't help but laugh as she crawls onto his lap, wrapping her arms around his neck as she stares him in the eyes.

Batti: Blades-sama, your words are sincere, for once you've shown yourself vulnerable in the face of a daunting task, and you've grown stronger for it. What else are you afraid of? You'll never lose your spot in WZCW, you showed out there why you're one of the best, who I beat by the way.

Tyrone: What was that?

Batti: Nothing! Seriously though Tyrone, you gotta ease up, and if you won't do it, I have certain ways to make sure you do.

Tyrone: That so?

Batti grins as she winks at him, pressing up closer to him as he returns the favor. She leans into his neck, kissing up to his jawline before whispering into his ear.

Batti: Very convincing ways. So tomorrow you go find Titus and Jones and join them in whatever crazy shit they're doing, but just promise me you come back to me alright?

He nods, his eyes looking forward as he takes in her words. She was right, but first he had to go see an old friend first. He formulates his plan.....for a moment before her feminine wiles completely distract him and soon he spins her over onto her back, their lips meeting as the scene fades away. The next day comes as Tyrone soon finds himself pulling up to a rather large house, quickly killing the Impala as he looks up at the door. He exits, brushing his hair back before realizing his bandanna is pulled up over his face. He quickly slides it down before knocking on the door, leaning against one of the porch pillars as the door opens, revealing Constantine's beloved Mia.

Tyrone: Johnny Boy home?

Mia instantly narrows her eyes, every fiber in her body getting defensive as she takes in the sight of Tyrone. She keeps the door semi closed, her head behind the door a bit.

Mia: And what is it you want?

Tyrone holds his hands up, standing up away from the pillar as he looks towards Mia.

Tyrone: Just here to see how he's holding up. He went through hell at Unscripted, and I just.....needed to talk to him. Needed his advice on something.

Mia: Is that so? Well let me tell you something Mr. Blades.

Tyrone: You can just call me Tyrone ma'am.

Mia: I don't care what your name is. My fiancé almost killed himself to win that damn title the first time, and then you had to come in and lay a beating on him. He left me and his child for a long time after he went down a dark path. And it's your fault. So don't think for a second I'm going to just let you waltz into my home and hurt John again!

Tyrone: Ma'am I just wanna talk to John. I ain't here to hurt him or anything, in fact I'm here to congratulate the man.

Mia: Go to hell.

Mia moves to slam the door as Tyrone looks dejected, but a hand slides through and catches the door and pulls it open a bit, revealing the WZCW World Heavyweight Champion Constantine. He looks down to Mia who's anger clearly has not subsided as Constantine places a hand on her shoulder, reassuring her.

Constantine: It's alright Mia, Tyrone's a trusted friend and I'd say he's atoned for what he's done in the past.

Mia: Fine, do you what you want, you already do anyway....

Mia continues to go off as she stomps away, Constantine wincing a bit as he looks towards Tyrone. The Hollow One shakes his head as he looks towards his friend.

Tyrone: Hey my bad John, I didn't mean to start World War 3 at your house tonight.

Constantine: It's alright Tyrone, I think the couch has a permanent depression in the shape of my body anyway.

The two share a laugh as Constantine grabs something from inside before walking out the door and closing it behind him. He has a solaced look on his face, but soon produces the World Heavyweight Title from behind his back, a wide grin forming on his face as Tyrone returns the smile. The two clasp hands before Tyrone slaps his hand on the prized title.

Tyrone: Long hard fought road back to that wasn't it?

Constantine: And this time I intend to defend it for a change.

Tyrone: That was uh.....that was my bad.

Constantine: Hey, you try it again I still got the burlap sack handy.

Tyrone faints mock horror as he covers his face.

Tyrone: Oh god no. I don't want to see emo John again, that was the most horrifying sight in WZCW history, and I had to share a locker with Stormrage for awhile.

The two share a laugh as they move towards the patio table and chairs, both grabbing a seat as John sits gingerly, Tyrone flipping his chair around and sitting with his arms resting on the back rest.

Constantine: It's been a crazy year Tyrone. Going from the leader of Vis Imperium and Mayhem Champion, to putting on an absolute war with you, to working my way towards being World Champ again. Now Banks is out of the equation, and Vis Imperium is no more. I'd say we could rest on our laurels, but we both know that's not how this business works.

Tyrone: That's kinda why I had to stop and hit you up man. This last year the only thing I gave a damn about was taking that punk ass Banks out, and now that I've done it, what else do I got left to do? The slate's clean, but I don't know where to go from here. I could go for gold again, go after the Elite title so I can complete that grand slam, but it's not like I'm trying to solidify a Hall of Fame entry, I already got that. Titus has the Eurasian title and I'm clearly not gonna go after my ally. The younger crew needs that Mayhem title to pay their dues.

Constantine: You're tiptoeing around it aren't you Tyrone?

Tyrone: Can't be helped. You know what my name is synonymous is, and we got Lethal Lottery coming up. But man to man, if I'm able to win and it's you and I again, it's going to be straight up. No crews backing either of us up. No weapons, no personal issues, just you and me, a clean match and put on a clinic.

Constantine: And I would look forward to that, but you always have the World Title on your mind. I've been champion before, and the old saying goes if you're champion, you got a target on your back. Everyone will be gunning for me, and truth be told Tyrone, I don't know how long my body will hold up in defending this title, but I'm going to try my damned hardest to keep this ride going as long as I can. But right now, I can see something else is bothering you. You're a man of conviction, and if the World Title was really your main concern, I don't think we'd be having this conversation right now. You'd be back preparing to go after it.

Tyrone laughs as he withdraws a cigarette, lighting it up and inhaling deeply before exhaling away from Constantine. He rubs his temples with his free hand before looking back up at Constantine and shaking his head.

Tyrone: Yeah I shoulda known you wouldn't have bought all that. Truth is John, I'm sitting here wondering what WZCW needs The Hollow Ones for anymore. The group started as a way to fight the wrongs in WZCW, or at least what we perceived as wrong. And we did that, we took it and punched Banks right in the mouth, with a baseball bat naturally, and him reeling.

Constantine: You could fight to get your money back from him.

Tyrone: Oh shit I forgot to tell you about that. See after Unscripted, the Board of Directors so conveniently was delivered some documents I still had on Banks. And lo and behold this morning I got this in the mail.

Tyrone reaches into his pocket, withdrawing a piece of paper and slapping it down on the table. Constantine picks it up as his eyes go wide, realizing it's a check with a lot of zeros.

Constantine: You're kidding me!

Tyrone: Every. God. Damn. Cent. I did offer to take a minor ownership with no decision making power, buuuuuuuuuut they were less than enthused by that to say the least.

Constantine: Where in the blue hell did you have money like this to borrow? My god man when I need a loan for my kid's college I'm going to be visiting you.

Tyrone chuckles as John hands the check back over, Tyrone putting it back in his pocket before taking another drag from his cigarette.

Tyrone: I smell a business opportunity already. I mean the government's gonna fuck everyone else over for student loans, I should start a customer friendly loan service. You're a politician Johnny Boy, you could be my PR man.

Constantine: And that type of thinking is exactly why we need The Hollow Ones still Tyrone. You and Titus are the legends that built this place up, why not keep the group together and be the ones that keep an eye on the watchtower? You know there's going to be the next one that comes around wanting to take control again, hell we all know what Becky's like, and Myles has been a bastard in the past. The Hollow Ones breathing down their necks may keep them fair and focused.

Tyrone: I ain't so sure Batti would appreciate me breathing on Becky's neck, also I really don't want Ricky Runn's sloppy seconds, and I'm just talking about the air around her. Man I don't know, you already know they're busy talking about how soon I'm gonna make my move again. For real though, I ain't got a move to make. I did what I needed to do, ain't nothing more to it. I'm struggling with myself though Johnny Boy, and you can attest to this, you see a power vacuum and every fiber in your body is screaming at you to grab it. You ever heard of Victor's Justice? It's kinda like the saying the victor gets to write history. But Victor's Justice is the winner gets to decide what is right and wrong. If the Hollow Ones were to become the watchdogs, then it would be us that decides what is right or wrong. Do y'all really trust me of all people to be the judge, jury, and executioner?

Silence comes between the two men as Constantine absentmindedly grips his World Title just a bit tighter as he searches for the right words. Tyrone takes another drag from his cigarette before turning and walking off the porch, putting the cigarette out and keeping it in his hoodie pocket before walking backup. He sighs as he sits back down, leaning his head on his arms as he stares forward at Constantine.

Constantine: I think.....no, I believe you have earned the trust of the locker room once again. You're not the same as Ty Burna, you're Tyrone Blades. You willingly put your career on the line just to get a crack at taking out Vis Imperium. The amount of people that would be willing to do that I could count on one hand, and I'm not so sure even Titus or myself could bring ourselves to do so. You put yourself on the front line, you've suffered through indignities that have no business being in pro wrestling. Look at your arms for god's sake man! You'll have scars for the rest of your life from that barbed wire. If what you've all done isn't enough to prove yourself and what you truly believe in, then I'm not sure what will accomplish that Tyrone.

Tyrone: You know it's funny, when I was standing in that ring, all I could see is red. All I saw was my enemy, the man I needed to hurt, no the man I needed to eradicate from this company. The fans faded in the background, hell even Titus and Jones didn't exist at that very point in time. Nothing else mattered except the animal instincts that were coming out of me. And then you all came out. You surrounded the ring and broke me out of that trance. I keep hearing that I'm not Ty Burna, but John, there is still some of who I once was in me. Despite my insistence that I am not that man, and despite hearing it from everyone that I'm a different person, that drive, that passion to be the very best, that comes from the Ty Burna persona. Without that anger, without that ability to go farther than everyone else, I'm not the best. But because of that demon in me, there's always the capability to become the very thing everyone expects of me. I can't be the watchman while also being the very bastard that could kick the fucking gate down at the same time. I won't do that to you, or anyone else in WZCW. I can't put myself in that position to be in some sort of power and expect myself to stay in my lane. I'mma fuck it up eventually.

Constantine nods his head in understanding as he slowly stands up, still showing the results of his Hell in a Cell match. He drags the World Title off the table, draping it over his shoulder before walking past Tyrone, stopping and placing a hand on his shoulder in the process.

Constantine: I would beg to differ Tyrone. Before there was ever Ty Burna, there was Tyrone Blades, and because of that I believe it's the man that drove the demon, not the other way around. The past year I've come to realize the change inside you is real, and not just a smokescreen to grabbing power once more. We've both gone through that metamorphosis, we both understand what this company really means to ourselves. You asked earlier if I too felt that pull towards grabbing the power vacuum. I will not lie Tyrone, I had schemes already forming in my head. Who could I grab to assist me? Perhaps I could convince even you and Titus to help consolidate power alongside the World Champion. It's for that very reason, that we need the Hollow Ones still. Even if it's just to protect WZCW from ourselves. Think it over, I think you'll see I'm right. Take care of yourself Blades.

Tyrone: You too Johnny Boy, just hope I don't run into you at the Lottery rounds, wouldn't wanna cut your title reign short again right?

Constantine: Burlap sack Tyrone. It still fits like a glove just remember that.

Tyrone grins up at Constantine before standing. Constantine stares a hole through him but Tyrone laughs as he offers his hand, the two men shaking hands and the two former villains nod to one another. Constantine walks into his house, leaving Tyrone to making the trek to his car. He tosses the cigarette butt out into the street before hopping into the Impala, firing up the engine. He rests his hand on the steering wheel, staring off into the sunset now cascading the various colors through the sky. He nods his head, a determined look on his face as he reaches down, sliding the bandanna back up over his face. He takes his phone out, dialing a number as he soon drives off towards the setting sun.

Tyrone: Ayo Jones, Titus, meet back at HQ. It's time to get back to work mofuckas.

With Love,

The Hollow Ones

 

[Daniel]

The Narrator presents
"Let the Gods Decide My Fate"​

Janet is sat at her desk. The same desk she sits at everyday (except, of course, when the office is closed for weekends and public holidays). The office decor is drab and placid. It's a miracle even the cacti grow in such an inhospitable environment. A perfect backdrop for the mundanity of Janet's career.

The phone rings once. Twice. Three times. Janet sighs and picks up the receiver.

"Hello, Universal Interfaith Council headquarters. Janet speaking. How can I help you today?"

"I'm afraid he's in a meeting right now. Can I take a message?"

"Unfortunately his son is there too."

"Yep, uh huh. Yeah, I'm afraid they are all in this meeting. It's incredibly important that they are not disturbed. You see, it's actually the Madness/Anarchy week in WZCW. So I'm sure you could understand the situation."

"Okay, yeah... that's great. I will let Jehovah know that you called. Thank you. Bye, bye."

-​

The celestial beings are assembled in the meeting room. You might think, dear reader, that a meeting between every major god known to man may be an exciting affair. Zeus casually creating lightning bolts for his own amusement, while his brother, Hades, glares in the corner. Deities of the Celtic persuasion having their own little Ceidlh in another corner. And, of course, Roman gods arguing incessantly with their Greek counterparts.

But alas, inter-faith meetings such as these are a far more boring affair. The gods and goddesses are all seated at the biggest conference table that Ikea can reasonably provide, as they go over the minutes of the previous dialogue of the divine.

"Okay, so let’s get on to any other business" says Jehovah.

"You want to talk about other business?" asks Allah. "Well why are you in charge of the meeting? That’s my other business."

"2.4 billion followers worldwide. That’s all I’m saying."

"That’s cool. But who’s responsible for the Islamic golden age, again? Who?"

"Yeah? Well who’s responsible for modern Western morality?"

"What about modern Eastern philosophy?"

"EXCUSE ME?" shout Brahma and Buddha in perfect synchronisation.

"You know what I mean."

At this point, Isis turns to Shiva and says "wow, this is more awkward than that time we pretended to invite L. Ron Hubbard to the meeting."

"Yeah, he was pissed."

"Okay, okay, we’re getting off-topic. What we really should be discussing is WZCW’s Meltdown Madness and Ascension Anarchy week. It’s one of the few times the company leaves anything up to chance. And while they think the results are random, they’re simply allowing us, the gods, to decide. So let’s go alphabetically. What should we do with one Ace Stevens? Throw some ideas at me, what are we thinking? Come on, blue-sky thinking."

"I like him" says Athena. "Not the greatest tactician, but he likes a good war. I respect that."

Odin concurs. "I’ve gotta agree with Athena on this one. Nice kid. Not the smartest. In fact, he’s probably the dumbest. But I’ve got a soft spot for him."

"Ace is a douchebag."

The gods collectively groan.

"Oh, great. Who invited this loser?"

"I don't know if you've realised, but I too am a deity. No invite required, Thor. And if you don’t like it, you can go back to Asgard."

“Haha… ass guard…” chuckles Hercules.

"Fine. Have your say, Lucifer."

"Why thank you" says the devil, as he rises to his hooves. A speech is coming.

"Since the dawn of man, the only thing to ever unite these pathetic mortals has been their capacity for evil. And it's that evil - and that evil alone - that has allowed those flesh pillows down on Earth to do remarkable things. Evil has allowed man to start wars, create chaos and even win championships. Do you see where I'm going with this?"

Previously quiet, the Hindu god Shiva responds "Ace Stevens stopped being evil and now can't win championships?".

"Why do you have to destroy everything, Shiva? But yeah, that's what I'm getting at. He joined you lot. The angels."

"No, no, no" protests Allah. "He is still a cheat, a liar and a thief. It is clear to anyone that he is not a good man."

"Well no one is truly good. Original sin, anyone? Hello..."

"Right, off-topic. My point is that if Ace Stevens wants to act like Face Stevens, he can. But he's gonna need to be punished. I'm thinking gauntlet match. War Zone, Logan McAllister and then Brock Edwards."

"Hold on, Lucifer" interrupts Poseidon.

"Please, call me Luci."

"Okay, Luci. If Ace is secretly evil, why do you want to punish him? Aren't you all for that?"

"Excellent question, Aquaman. You guys know me, I love a bit of evil. But when one of those morties down there tries to deny their true self - that is something I cannot abide. He's a bad guy! And if he doesn't embrace it, I say we make him."

"Always with the evil plans with you, isn't it, Satan?"

"I say we give him a championship match. While not perfect, Ace has made tremendous strides in becoming a better person. I think we should reward him" claims Buddha.

"Newsflash, enlightened one! He already has a championship match! He's facing Titus for the Eurasian title. Oh Titus, by the way, another loser pretending to be nice. That dude had evil nectar coarsing all through his veins. Now, he's just another do-gooder dweeb."

"Nah, bro" says Hercules, not-so-subtlely flexing. "B-dawg is right. Let's give him a title match. Let him beat down that Matt Tastic dude. You don't kick a bro in the balls, bro. Or what about the big dog J.C.?"

"I am not fighting him" protests Jesus.

"Nah, bro. I’m talking about Justin Cooper. My boy Ace beat him before. You know what I’m saying, bro?"

"Yes, we know what you’re saying. Ace never shuts up about it."

"Wonderful. Any more suggestions?"

"He should face War Zone" shouts Mars.

"No, he should fight Triple X" retorts Aphrodite.

"Constantine!"

"Tyrone Blades and Vox! At the same time!"

"He should fight the Romans" exclaims Artio.

"No! The Celts", Apollo fires back.

"He should fight the ignorance and intolerance that so frequently pervades this society in my name" claims Jesus.

“Same!” agrees Allah.

"He should fight his inner demons" states Buddha. "Only then can he truly be at peace with himself."

"That is a lot of information to take in. Okay, look. I don’t feel like we’re getting anywhere with this. So let’s stop with the specifics for a second."

"Yeah, bro. Stick that stuff on the laterbase. Good call, dude."

"Uh thanks, Hercules."

"I’m Heracles."

"Whatever. I think that instead, we should be thinking about the characteristics of a potential opponent for Ace. Good or bad? Experienced or not? So let’s take a show of hands. Who thinks Ace Stevens should face strong competition this week?"

A selection of deities raise their hands.

"And who thinks he should be given a more comfortable match?"

The rest of gods raise their hands.

"I’m counting that as one vote, Lakshimi. You have to get up pretty early to fool me."

"Right, now we’re making some progress. Democracy i-"

Before Allah can finish his sentence, Janet opens the door gingerly.

"I’m ever so sorry to interrupt your meeting, gods and goddesses. But I’ve got some pretty urgent news."

"Go on" urges Allah.

"Terry Harkin from Bootle, United Kingdom has just flipped a coin. He’s going to need a decision pretty quick."

"Very well. Let’s stick WZCW on the backburner. Who says heads?"

 

[Dagger Dias]

December 11th, 2017
10:38 AM​

Lynx gazed ahead at the building in front of him. Was this the right place? Lynx had made a post on social media 10 days ago asking if any of his fans knew of a way to help him locate the person who would be determining the random shuffling of the matches for Meltdown Madness and Ascension Anarchy. It took over a week, but he did get a response. A fan named Beatrix Medina had responded to Lynx's post. The address she provided him to meet at had led him here where he stood.

Lynx: This can't be right. Or is it? I guess it wouldn't hurt to at least go take a look inside.

He looked up at the sign on the building. It read "Medina's Exotic Pets". Somebody inside may have the answers he was looking for. So, with a deep breath he decides to go inside anyhow. Inside he looked around but to Lynx's surprise, there were no pets to be found anywhere. All the cages and rooms were empty. After looking around some more he found a short blonde woman wearing pink.

Lynx: Excuse me, this is "Medina's Exotic Pets", right? Are you Beatrix Medina?

Medina: Yes I am! You can call me Miss Medina. Thank you for coming, Lynx! I am so glad you are here. Your post on The Grand Dream's website made me realize what may have happened to my exotic pets!

Lynx: I did notice a signficant lack of pets in this pet store. All of your cages are empty.

Medina: My pets all vanished shortly after your wrestling Roulette show was announced. At first it made no sense, but then I realized it all had to add up somehow.

Lynx: What do you mean?

The pet store owner walks over to a closet.

Medina: Well, take this for example. I found this the same day the pets vanished.

She opens the door to the closet. A huge blue and purple hyperdimensional time-space vortex is inside.

Spoiler

Lynx: WHOA!!!!

Medina: I've been wondering what the heck this thing was!

Lynx: Maybe it has some connection to your missing pets and to the random shuffling of the matches at my show! Do you mind if I check that out?

Medina: Go right ahead. I will have to close the door behind you though. I cannot have that vortex scaring away any customers that come.

Lynx jumps into the vortex and Medina closes the door.

Day and Year Withheld
Time Withheld​

A dark courtyard is seen, with a yellow fence surrounding it. Nine doors along the wall are seen in the back. There is a magenta haired humanoid wearing green clothes, standing by a street lamp in the center of the room.

Lynx falls into the courtyard, landing face first a couple of feet away from where the magenta haired humanoid is standing. Despite having fallen through the vortex for what seemed like an eternity, Lynx was not in a large amount of pain. No more than one would feel from falling off a couch onto the floor. He got up and dusted himself off before approaching the magenta haired humanoid.

Lynx: Hey.... Who are you?

Snort: Most travelers call me Snort.

Lynx: Your name is Snort!?

Snort: Well, Snort is short for my full name, which is Snortohcreehydrinnykuheehaw Smith. No one can pronounce my first name properly and I do not answer to my last name, so people just started calling me "Snort".

Lynx looks around the dark courtyard and then looks at Snort again.

Lynx: Snort, where are we?

Serene music begins playing heard.

[YOUTUBE]45C81eidtek[/YOUTUBE]​

Snort: This is a distortion of time and space. You're in a place called The Trend Of Time.

Lynx: The WHAT!!??

Snort: The Trend Of Time. Most of those who end up here either are trying to protect the time space continuum such as yourself or they scrolled all the way to the very bottom of the newsfeed on their facebook. It takes quite a while to get there, I assure you.

Lynx: Why is it called The Trend Of Time?

Snort: Just as its name implies, the spirits who live here and I we spend every minute of every day watching over time and space. We also make sure all the right topics are trending on social media. It helps fuel the time space continuum, which is located in the room behind me. There are 8 spirits here. These spirits know of the possible outcomes for your match at the Roulette shows. Would you like to meet them?

Lynx is extremely confused. He is getting a headache trying to process what has been said.

Lynx: How do you.... WHAT!?

Snort: Ok. I'll put it in terms even you can understand. There's 9 doors on the wall to the right. Ignore the one directly behind me, and go visit the 8 spirits who are behind each of the other doors.

Lynx looks at the door Snort told him to avoid. A sign on it reads "Timekeepers Only".

Lynx: Why can't I go inside that one?

Snort: Because the time space continuum is in there. Unless you want to be the catalyst for the very apocalyptic future you're trying to prevent, then I suggest you ignore that door and visit with the spirits inhabiting each of the other rooms.

Lynx decides to follow the instructions. He walks past the door he was told to ignore and goes over to the next door to the right of that one. This one has a picture of what looks like the Sun on it. He goes inside. In the room he sees another smaller dark courtyard similar to where Snort was. There is a ghostly creature inside resembling a will-o-the-wisp.

Lomono: Hello. Thou hast come into my chamber. Mine name is Lomono, but some also calleth me Wosp. Dost thou wisheth to knoweth more about thy match?

Lynx: Sure. Who am I facing?

Lomono: If thine opponent were the Mayhem Champion Vox, how wouldst thou win?

Lynx: I'm facing Vox? Wow, ok.... Well, I have faced him before at Apocalypse a few months back. We also tag teamed in another match later on at Ascension 121. Vox is one of the few I'd consider an ally, but if his title were up for grabs I would need to make sure the right person is holding it to prevent the true mayhem of the real Apocalypse from coming. I can defeat him. What kind of match is it?

Lomono vanishes.

Lynx: Hey! Where'd you go? You didn't tell me what kind of match Vox and I are having!

Silence. No response. Lynx decides to go try looking in another room. He exits Lomono's room and goes to the next room to the right. This door has a Mountain on it. He goes inside and sees a man with a brown beard and a green hat in the room.

Gnomo: I'm Gnomo. So you're the guy Snort ordered us to talk to? Well, look, sorry, but I don't want divulge any of that information. Ok?

Lynx: How rude. Can't you please help me? Lomono told me I'm facing Vox. If I don't find out what match type I'm facing Vox in, I can't ensure the right outcome at the Roulette shows.

Gnomo: Vox!? Who said you're facing Vox? Bleh!

Lynx scratches his head.

Lynx: That was what Lomono told me.

Gnomo: Really? Ah, well. Whatever. How about this. What if your opponent was the Elite Openweight Champion. Matt Tastic. How would you defeat him?

Lynx: Matt Tastic? He's one of the best wrestlers in the history of WZCW. I do sense a fated encounter there. It would take everything I have to defeat him. I know I can do it though. Him having the Elite Openweight Championship has set WZCW back onto the path of destruction because Callie was supposed to retain against him. I've got to fix that by making sure he no longer has the title! Gnomo, do you know what the stipulation is for the match?

At that moment Gnomo vanishes.

Lynx: Oh come on!

He sighs and decides to go try the next room. This door has a picture of a Tornado on it. Lynx goes inside and sees a dark blue genie clad in yellow floating in the room.

Solphod: Like hi there! I'm like Solphod! Although sometimes people have like also called me either Djon or Jonn but I totally prefer the name Solphod.

Lynx: Sure.... Hey, so I got advised by Lomono that I'm facing Vox but then Gnomo told me I'll be facing Matt Tastic. Do you know who my next opponent is going to be?

Solphod: What if I like told you that you are like going to be in like a Triple Threat match?

Now the other two spirits' responses made more sense to Lynx.

Lynx: Of course. Both of them. Solphod, do you know if it will be for the Mayhem Championship? Or would it be the Elite Openweight Championship that's on the line?

Solphod: That's like, not what I had like said. Do you like think you can win if you're in like a triple threat match?

Lynx: Sure....? I don't see any problems winning a triple threat match. All I have to do is make sure I'm the one who gets the pinfall or submission. You didn't answer me though. Is it Vox or Tastic who puts their title on the line in this triple threat match?

Before Lynx can get an answer, Solphod vanishes.

Lynx: Do you guys not want to answer my questions or something!?

He shakes his head and then exits. He finds the next door to the right of Solphod's. This one has a picture of the Moon on it. He goes inside. In this room is a dark shadowy flying figure with a large eyeball.

Lynx: Are you one of the spirits? What's your name?

Shodo: Shodo....

Lynx: Do you know what kind of match I am having?

It takes the spirit a moment before he answers.

Shodo: Fatal Fourway....

Lynx: Wait, now it's a Fatal Fourway? Who got added to it? It was just myself, Vox, and Matt Tastic a moment ago.

The spirit does not answer.

Lynx: I mean.... I can handle a fatal fourway if it happens. It's similar to a triple threat only with a fourth competitor. If I make sure I get the pin, then I should be good to go. Shodo, will this be for for Vox's or Tastic's title?

Shodo: Maybe....

Lynx: You don't talk much, do you?

At that very second, Shodo vanishes.

Lynx: On to the next one then, I guess.

He exits the room and locates the next door after Shodo's. This door has a Waterfall on it. He enters and finds a blue mermaid inside the room.

The mermaid spirit, full of excitement, is swimming in mid-air.

Ondono: Oh my gosh!!!! Hey there! It's so awesome to meet you! My name's Ondono! Ask me about your match! It would be the coolest thing EVER if you did!

Lynx: Ok, let me just try to get some clarity. Are there four people in my match?

Ondono: There just might be. Wouldn't a match with four people be super incredible?

Lynx, for a moment, feels he got the clarity he was looking for.

Lynx: So it's a fatal fourway for either Vox or Matt Tastic's title right?

Ondono: How about a tag team match? Wouldn't that be great?

And again Lynx was confused.

Lynx: A tag team match? Is it similar to the Eurasian Championship match at Unscripted where Titus defended his title against Keaton and Xander in tag team form?

Ondono: Hey! Listen to me! Can you win if you have a tag team match?

Lynx: I'm confident in tag team action. I've done well in those matches before when teaming up with Eve Taylor or Vox. Do you know who my partner would be in the match?

The mermaid spirit vanishes after Lynx has asked his question.

Lynx: So much for that.

He returns to the courtyard and looks for the next door. To the right is a door with a Volcano on it. Lynx goes inside. In this room he sees a red lizard.

Solomondo: Salutations! Solomondo is this one's name! Did you want to ask Solomondo a question?

Lynx: What can you tell me about my match? Do you know if it will be for the Mayhem Championship or the Elite Openweight Championship?

Solomondo: Solomondo wants you to consider the possibility that it could be for the Eurasian Championship! Could you tell Solomondo how you would win such a match?

Lynx: Hold on. Does that mean Titus is my opponent? The guy who NOBODY has been able to dethrone, no matter how hard they try and no matter what strategy they use?

The lizard does not answer Lynx.

Lynx: No! Don't disappear on me yet, Solomondo! All your friends did as soon as I tried to ask additional questions. Is my match, or is it not, for the Eurasian Championship?

Solomondo: Solomondo says it might be. Solomondo wants to know if you can win.

Lynx takes the thought of facing Titus Avison into consideration. He thinks it over in his mind and suddenly, feels a large amount of confidence.

Lynx: Yes I do. The problem that others like Wren, Kagura, Mancini, Theron, Flex, Vee, and Tyrone Blades all had was that Titus had the chance to prepare for the match. If his title were to be up for grabs, there is no way he could prepare for facing me if he does not know ahead of time who his opponent is. He would not have time to formulate a strategy. I could catch him off guard and end the longest title reign in WZCW history.

And then Solomondo vanishes. Lynx leaves and goes to the next door. This one has a picture of a Circle with a Question Mark symbol inside of the Circle. He goes inside. In this room is a glowing yellow fairy with triangular wings who looks extremely happy.

Lono: Lynx, I am the penultimate rudimentary force of those you seek to locate. My moniker is Lono. Do you desire to quiz me with a query about your contest?

He mentally repeats her question to himself as it did not make sense to Lynx at first, then he responds.

Lynx: Ah ok. Yeah. I've been gathering information about my match at the Roulette shows from your friends the other spirits. Some of the information is conflicting. Do you know if it will be Vox, Tastic, or Titus who puts their title on the line against me? It sounds as if I could be facing all three of them!

The fairy laughs.

Lono: You are being foolish. Your battle may be against any of those participatants, but what if I notified you that your foe was Constantine?

Lynx's jaw drops.

Lynx: Constantine!? The World Heavyweight Champion? HE is my opponent? Lono, are you sure? Is it for the World Championship?

The fairy laughs again and flaps her wings.

Lono: This is not intended as shenanigans. Can you conquer Constantine if he were your adversary in the competition?

Lynx: He is the best in the world right now. It would be a challenge, quite possibly my greatest challenge ever. Sure, I'm up to the challenge if it were to happen. I have stated numerous times that I want to make sure WZCW stays off the path toward destruction. Every week the federation inches closer in the wrong direction. What better way to guard the time space continuum than by holding the biggest prize in all of wrestling? Constantine's not looking toward tomorrow. After Kingdom Come 9 he's leaving. You know who IS working toward a better tomorrow? ME! If I get a World Championship opportunity then Constantine's time is up!

The fairy is still flapping her wings.

Lynx: So it's Constantine, for sure, Lono?

Lono vanishes at this time. Lynx groans. There is still one more spirit left. He exits the room and finds the final door on the wall. This one has a Tree on it. He goes inside and finds a tree humanoid with leaves for hair and roots for feet.

Drood: My name-o is Drood-o. I have important information-o for you, Lynx-o.

Lynx: It's actually "Lynx". Not "Lynxo". Anyway, can you tell me about my match? Nothing the other spirits have said has added up. Do you know if I am facing any of the current champions in WZCW, or if it's some kind of tag team match?

Drood: What if your match-o was a standard singles match-o?

He fights the urge to correct Drood on how to say the word "match".

Lynx: Let's try this another way. Who is my opponent?

Drood: Did you not figure that out from the conversations-o that you-o had with the other spirits-o, Lynx-o? What if your opponent-o was Batti-o in a singles match-o?

Lynx raises an eyebrow.

Lynx: Battio? You mean Batti? So after all that it was Batti all along, and not any of the current champions? Sure, I could defeat her no problem.... But were the other spirits just playing mind games with me or something?

Drood: Spirits-o like myself-o can only come up with possibilities-o. You-o could face Mark-o Keaton-o, Wren-o, or even Constantine-o. Your opponent-o could be anyone-o on the roster-o, Lynx-o! That depends on what The Randomizer-o says! Only he-o knows your true opponent-o. Look for him-o in room-o behind Snort-o!

Lynx: The Randomizer? Hmmmm....

The tree spirit vanishes. Lynx exits the room and makes his way back to Snort.

Lynx: Droodo told me that someone named The Randomizer is the one I should have been talking to.

Snort: Her name is not "Droodo", it's "Drood". She can't say her own name correctly, or any noun for that matter. You can't go talk to The Randomizer. He's a very busy man. He's back there randomly generating the matches for your show right now, in fact!

Lynx gets right up in front of Snort.

Lynx: So he's in that room you wouldn't let me go in earlier, right? I have to make sure every single match has the right competitors and that the right people win these matches! Let me into that room behind you! I promise I won't disrupt the time space continuum.

Snort: I'm afraid I can't allow that. You of all people should know why that would be a bad idea, Lynx.

Lynx: Why can't I go in there? What makes The Randomizer so special to where he can go into a room that has the time space continuum but I can't? Is he some enigmatic keeper of time who already knows the future?

Snort: No, he's actually just a football coach named Josh Browning who has also has a special gift in randomly determining sequences of events.

Snort leans up against the street lamp that is next to him.

Snort: Enough about The Randomizer. Did the 8 spirits give you the answers you were looking for about your match?

Lynx: The first 7 didn't. Drood finally cleared it up that I could be facing anybody. I could be facing Vox for the Mayhem Championship, Matt Tastic for the Elite Openweight Championship, Titus for the Eurasian Championship, or even Constantine for the World Championship. It could be any WZCW wrestler in a non-title match. Whether it is a standard singles match, a tag team match, a triple threat, a fatal fourway, or any other stipulation I feel confident in any of the above scenarios, but WHICH ONE IS IT!?

Snort shakes his head.

Snort: You'll find out right before your match starts, just like everyone else.

Lynx: I want to know RIGHT NOW!!!!

Snort: Are you sure you want to take that risk, Lynx?

Lynx: Yes! I have to know that the right outcomes will take place!

Lynx goes over to the door behind Snort. He tries to open it, but it opens on its own. Inside he sees nothing but darkness. He steps inside and the music stops playing.

December 11th, 2017
10:43 AM​

The interior of "Medina's Exotic Pets" is seen again. The animal cages are still empty. The door to the closet opens and Lynx emerges from the closet. The dimensional distortion implodes behind him, leaving an ordinary closet. Medina approaches him.

Medina: Back so soon? You were only gone for about 30 seconds before some other guy named Josh Browning showed up from inside the closet. 4 minutes after that, here we are.

Lynx: 4 minutes? I've been gone for several HOURS!

Medina: Nope. It's been no more than 5 minutes. Josh left a message for you. He said he finished making all the random matches for the Roulette. I bet he was the guy you were looking for!

Lynx: Where did he go?

Medina: Not sure. Probably to those arenas where Meltdown Madness and Ascension Anarchy will be held at, since he came up with the matches.

Lynx: What did he look like?

Medina: He told me I can't tell you. Maybe you'll find him at your show!

Lynx facepalms.

Lynx: Unbelievable. Well, I better head off. I've got to go ensure there is no further damage to the time space continuum from the results of these upcoming shows.

Medina: I will be watching! I hope you win!

And so Lynx set off in search of Josh Browning, the mysterious "Randomizer". Who is he? Who is Lynx facing? Which of the two shows is Lynx going to be on? Whether it is for a championship or not, Lynx was mentally prepared for any and all possible outcomes. It is up to him to ensure that the present leads us all to the correct future, unhindered by the results at either of the two Roulette shows. Only time will tell if the future will change for the better.

 

[Tastycles]

Randy Studd is wearing a towel, looking at a giant portrait of himself above his fireplace with the mayhem title and singing into a hair brush. Badly.

I-I-I don't want a lot for Roulette
There is just one thing I need
I don't care about Eurasian
Wrapped around the waist of me
I just want back what's my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Roulette is you

I don't want a lot for Roulette
There is just one thing I need (and I)
Don't care about Eurasian
Wrapped around the waist of me
I don't need to beat Milenko
Or rearrange his face
Eve Taylor won't make me happy
With a win on Meltdown Day

I just want back what's my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Roulette is you
May, hem

Oh, I won't ask for much this Roulette
I will just beat Milenko
Or I'll take on old Mark Keaton
Wrestling on the B-show
I won't make a list and send it
To Becky Serra, Meltdown's Queen
I won't even ask if I can
Have a go at Constantine

I just want back what's my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Roulette is you
May, hem

Oh, all the lights are shining
So brightly on Meltdown
And the sound of Tyrone's
Fans is going down
And everyone is swinging
I hear those ring bells ringing
Serra, won't you bring me the one I really need?
Won't you please bring my title to me?

Oh, I don't want a lot for Roulette
This is all I'm asking for
I just want to see Vox baby
Lying on the canvas floor

Oh, I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
Baby, all I want for Roulette is...

Youuuu
Mayhem
Youuuu
Mayhem
Youuuu
Mayhem

We pan slightly further out and see the postman standing in the doorway, dumbstruck by what he's seen. Studd shows absolutely no embarrassment.

 

[Theo Mays]

The wrestling paparazzi are hidden in the bushes as they await [color]The Beard[/color]. Beard was seen going into WZCW headquarters for a meeting with Mr. Banks. Hours have passed and as the sun begins to set Beard exits the office. His tie loosened, his frizzy hair still up in a ponytail, sunglasses on, blazer in hand. The paparazzi jump out looking for an ambush, but Beard is prepared.

Before you guys get too crazy, the meeting was nothing serious. Just sorting out some contractual issues.

Does this mean you are leaving the company once again?

And there’s the crazy. It does not mean I am leaving. It is actually quite the opposite really. I plan on staying here until the end. Until I lace up those puts on last time and kick someone’s ass one last time.

Does this mean retirement is on your mind? Has the WZCW universe seen the last of The Beard?

Again with the crazy. I’m not going to lie and tell you retirement hasn’t crossed my mind. It definitely has but I’m not quite ready yet. But who knows, that could change tomorrow. But one thing is for certain, I will be at Madness on Meltdown or Anarachy on Ascension. Those great people need to see this rugged face again.

So will one of those shows be a farewell show?

You never know man. But right now, they will not. Probably. Like I said the meeting was for an extension and for me to flourish not just in WZCW but outside of it as well. I have a great mind and I’d like to use it in anyway I can to help out this company.

What does that mean? Beard! Beard!

Beard walks off, leaving the paparazzi with more questions now than they had when they had arrived.

Things were changing. I’m not the superstar I use to be. I know that, management knows that, and the people are beginning to see that. I can only keep this act going for a short time man. I thought I had found the fountain of youth. My return was triumphant. Defeated an up and comer right off the bat. But then it all changed. Maybe he underestimated me. Since then the losses have piled in. The brawls with Matt Tastic have left me broken, have left me shaken, have left me vulnerable.

But the show must go on. I promised these people they were getting the real me. Not the crazy half beard guy. Not the guy who destroyed Ty Burna, destroyed Saboteur. I’m just me right now. And maybe me isn’t good enough. But I will fight. I will fight until I can’t stand. I will show up at Meltdown or Ascension this week. I mean lets be real, Madness and Anarchy are two things I built my career on. Maybe I’ll channel that. Channel that energy that I held back during my recent battles with Tastic. Channel the energy that is the real Beard. Not the real me. The Beard is who these people want to see.

Beard pauses as he pulls a glass from his desk drawer and uncorks a bottle of wine. He pours a glass and takes a puff of his cigar. The room is dark, but the smoke drifts through the air. The fire from the cigar dims the room as Beard twirls his glass before taking a sip.

Maybe it is time to throw on the costume once more. Bring back that sophisticated bastard that these people love. Roulette is a game I like to play, but this time around you don’t want to bet on black or red. This time around, it’s best you bet on Beard. See ya soon boys.

 

[Viola Moonlight]

Following the events of Unscripted, Eve Taylor's body was in agony. All she could muster on the wake of her boiler room brawl with Logan McAllister - as voted by the fans - was slow, heavy, drawn-out breaths whilst she laid sprawled out on her hotel bed. Her stomach felt broken and her head had a pounding ache. Her back was also sore but that was nothing to do with the aftermath of her match; her back was in pain because she had been laying in this position for a couple of hours and her body cried out for movement. However, movement would cause further searing pain from her injuries. In this predicament, the only thing on Eve's mind was contemplating whether she should move to a different position. Was it better to focus on the pain on her injuries and help her back? Or was it beneficial to spread the pain across the body? Eve knew she eventually had to move to ingest some food, drink some water or go to the bathroom, so moving was going to end up eliminating her option of staying still... but did she want to wait until she was forced to act or do it of her own volition? These thoughts kept going through Eve's head, no matter how much she tried to think of something else. It all came back to her current situation and asking the same damn questions. Eventually, it got to the point where Eve asked herself if this quarrel even mattered at all. Why should I even care? Why should Eve care? That was a thought Eve managed to scramble elsewhere on another subject matter: the defeat of Vis Imperium and the triumph of the WZCW legends taking back the company from corrupted hands. Did it really matter? And why should anyone care?

Eve attempted to follow that train of thought but a sharp, searing pain shot through her body again, causing her mind to derail. It was almost like her body was telling her to not think about those thoughts. She had much more important matters, like finding a way to deal with this bloody pain! Eve managed to turn her head slowly and see the bottle of whiskey sitting on the end table that she managed to procure on her previous visit to the bathroom. Eve thought it was best to do as much as she could whilst she was moving about and having a bottle of whiskey in arms-reach might be a good option. She was right because Eve desperately needed a drink. Normally, Eve would be looking forward to the night as she would see her friends Stacey Madison and Selena Anderson at the bar and drink to their hearts content, yet Eve was in no condition to go out anywhere. This was something she texted to both women to make sure they would not worry about her. Even if Eve got out of body, got ready and went out, she would be a pain for the other two. No need to spread the pain out...

"... huh," Eve said to herself, "I guess that answers my own query."

As Eve attempts to begin moving into a new position, there is a loud knock on her hotel room. A very excited knocking pattern that would not indicate someone from the hotel staff. Before Eve could even think about who it was, her phone began to ring. She was receiving a call from Stacey Madison. Another knocking sequence hit the door, this time a little more rougher. Eve definitely knew it was Stacey at the door.

"Just a minute!" Eve winced, as she slowly got up.

Slowly and carefully, Eve sat herself up on the bed frame before cautiously turning her body to be sitting upright over the edge. Eve's heavy breaths got louder and louder as she braced herself to stand up. On a self count of three, Eve used all her strength to get to her feet, doing her best to stand. It was not a vertical standing position but enough to consider her somewhat steady on her feet. With one hand holding her stomach, Eve did her best to walk over to the door, which featured yet another knocking sequence. Before they could prepare a fourth knock, Eve opened the door. Indeed, it was Stacey and Selena standing at the door holding bottles of alcohol and glasses to drink them with in their hands.

"You're not getting away from our drink sessions that easy!" Selena exclaimed.

Eve could do nothing but let out a laugh... but doing so her made her cough a little and clutch her stomach a bit more.

"You look like you need a stiff drink anyway."

"I'm fine, really." Eve attempted to say convincingly.

"Eve, have you seen the mirror recently? You look like shit and you've misplaced most of your clothes."

Eve looks down at herself to realise she is only in her undergarments. She shrugged and stepped aside to allow the other two to pass.

"My body is not currently fashion-friendly at the moment."

"Don't worry, Selena is never fashion-friendly." Stacey quips as she enters.

Selena looks slightly offended as she follows in behind her. Eve closes the door before anyone else sees her.

"Hey, that's not funny, Stacey! I know how to dress well! I just thought that since we were coming up her to visit Eve we did not need to get dressed up. Some days you've got to relax, y'know? Besides, you have no idea how long it takes me to go shopping for a nice outfit to look presentable on camera as I announce!"

"Just like when you announced the matches for Unscripted?" Stacey said with a sly smile. "That was a great dress."

Selena pushed Stacey onto Eve's hotel bed. Stacey was laughing even more at the gesture, knowing Selena was half joking about it. Eve could not keep her smile hidden. She was enjoying this... anything but the bore from before.

"Don't even joke about that. No, I am serious, Stacey."

Selena snatches a glass and a drink off Stacey, pours herself a straight drink and lays down on the other side of the bed. With Stacey and Selena both occupying each side of the bed, Eve was forced to stand. Selena takes a big swig as Stacey begins pouring two drinks, one for Eve and one for herself. As she hands one to Eve, Selena turns to Eve as well.

"First, they tell me Harrys has the Unscripted job and now, for the first time on the Roulette Rounds, they tell me that job positions are being randomised for the foreseeable future. A 'big shake-up' they described it to me. I was so excited on the prospect of having everyone's jobs shaken up between the shows. I thought, 'this could be your chance to announce Meltdown!' and it was an amazing couple of days in bliss... but then, the official WZCW.com article came out - not a memo or meeting, mind you - and it says that the only announcing jobs being randomised are the commentators! Not the ring announcers! WHY NOT THE RING ANNOUNCERS?!"

Selena skulls the entire drink and pours herself another one. Eve knows of Selena's ability to drink but she was impressed to see her down a half glass of straight whiskey. Stacey quietly takes away Selena's bottle upon seeing this.

"Do you believe that? It is bullshit!"

Eve raises a glass to that statement. as she looks to half sit/half lean on the desk in the room, remaining in a somewhat standing position. She takes a sip of her drink.

"I hear you."

"You know what? Screw the world's rules for today."

With her drink still in her hand, Selena throws her jacket to the ground. Stacey, who attempted to ignore most of what was happening, now looks over at Selena and stops her before she rips off any more clothing off.

"What are you doing?"

"Eve's half naked and you're telling me off?"

"Eve just went through a Boiler Room Brawl match only a few days ago. She's physically injured. It is difficult to put on actual clothes. And this is her hotel room that she has yet to leave. Leave the hermit be."

"If I am making you feel uncomfortable, I'll find my robe."

Selena looks flustered by the comments but she composes herself to explain her thoughts.

"No, it's not that... I am just frustrated with everything, is all. After the company finally has a chance to turn everything around and hit the big reset button, they overlook some of the issues and the reset button is merely a shifting of resources. I mean, I have been vocal for quite some time and asked them several times for the opportunity but it hasn't happened. When the perfect situation arises, they ignore the chance to seize it. I've talked to Cat and she was happy to remain on Ascension; the thought has never crossed her mind to switch shows and she would've never asked for the chance. Why does she get that chance?"

"It is the luck of the draw, sister. Sometimes you just have to ride the wave. It'll get better eventually."

Stacey looks to successful diffuse the situation by clinging glasses with Selena, making her feel a little better. However, Eve does not quite like the open-shut case Stacey is looking to provide.

"I used to tell myself that it would get better eventually. Sometimes it worked but only if I did something about it. It never worked if I sat back and did nothing or allow myself to get run over constantly. I had to take everything into my own hands."

"What are you talking about?" Stacey says, looking at Eve with a 'please shut up' face.

"I am no longer a model because I thought the media would blow over my controversial comments and actions, and my career would get better. I am no longer a member of my family because I thought time would pass by and they would forgive me running away. I am no longer considered one of the best wrestlers in the world because I thought it would get better with the next opportunity after squandering the previous one. Truth be told, it never got better. It has only gotten worse."

Eve winced in pain again as she adjusted herself and took a sip of her drink. She looked down at the drink in her hands, playing with the glass.

"I mean, look at me. I've been lying on a hotel bed basically naked doing absolutely nothing because I am in pain. Why am I in pain? Because I had a sadistic and physically-tolling match inside of a damned boiler room against a man who does anything he can to get ahead without putting any effort into his career. I managed to beat a guy who does nothing. Someone else talks for him. He skips wrestling matches but attacking people from behind. And when the match actually happens, Logan uses every option outside of him exerting any energy himself. Seriously, he hit me with metal signs, pipes and chairs. He had the intent to use hot steam and fire from a blow torch to force me to submit... hell, he was so lazy he even threw me into the wall to do damage. How unoriginal is that? A freaking wall!"

Eve clutches at her stomach just thinking about the match.

"Sure, I won the match in a match the fans wanted to see. That's cool, I guess, but where does that put me? Where am I now? I am in the same position I was in the previous year. The last Roulette Rounds I had no championship and the Lethal Lottery was on the horizon. This year, same thing. The only difference is that I was riding a wave of momentum after a successful title defenses. Now, I am riding the struggle bus attempting to gain some momentum back after losing all the major matches... even though my consistency for winning matches week in, week out is still very impressive. I have literally gone full circle in an entire year. Excellent! That's the kind of Christmas present I was going to ask Santa for this year.

"And speaking about presents I really enjoy, the legends of old have finally overcome the young and upcoming stars of the business to take control of the company once more! Tyrone Blades, Titus Avison, Constantine - and to a lesser extent, Matt Tastic - are all sitting high on their thrones rejoicing in the adulation of the fans for taking down the evil Vis Imperium. Now, Vis Imperium are complete dicks and there is an argument to say them disbanding is great, sure... but at the expense of young talent like Mark Keaton, Xander LeBelle and Justin Cooper? Xander is gone now. Keaton's stock has dropped. Even Callie Clark, a girl who was going to do great things with the Elite Openweight title, has lost everything going for her. All because the oldies want everything the way it was? The Mount Rushmore of WZCW standing proudly representing this company, holding almost all of the cards. The titles, the money, the fame, and the glory. All to themselves... whilst the rest of us down here have nothing to fight for."

"Are you seriously defending Vis Imperium?"

"No, I am calling out the bullshit of having one powerfully corrupted group take over another. There is no celebration of a successful rebellion. It's a dictatorship being replaced by a self-serving renegade regime. You can easily see it when you look at all the members responsible. Tyrone Blades has always wanted power over the company. Titus Avison craves the response of the audience and the spotlight all to himself. Constantine weasels his way in and out of every situation with his hollow words. All of them will do anything to achieve those means... and they are cheered for their actions? I call absolute bullshit on it all!

"Look, I'll concede I haven't done my best performances this year and I am to blame for that but why do they always get the opportunities? What about all the younger and newer talent who deserve a chance? The Mayhem title, whilst a very prestigious title, should not be the only title to fight over. Conversely, and quite hypocritical of me, I admit, there are wrestlers in the company who need to hone their skills before being given the chance to take on someone like Titus for the Eurasian title. I mean, two years with the title and how many real challengers has he had that were truly ready? Kagura is the only one that comes to mind. A true singles match where the opponent had a chance...

"... this is why I am excited for the Roulette Rounds. A chance for change. Maybe not the change we all were wanted but a chance for it to happen. A chance to start fresh again. However, I cannot expect this randomised matches to be the reboot I want. I must take advantage of this situation and showcase to the world I am still the best and I deserve to be front and centre of this fresh start. When everyone thinks of a new era in WZCW, my name will be the first name uttered. I have to give my best performances now and I must throw everything I have into that ring when Madness settles or Anarchy reigns. It does not matter who my opponent is and it does not matter what match I get: I have to prevail."

Eve becomes a little too excited by her own words and looks to stand proud but the pain is still too much for her. She trips a little forward but manages to catch herself. Selena and Stacey react to help her stay standing, eventually pulling her down to the bed to sit down.

"Easy there, Eve. One step at a time. You can't change the world in one match."

"Yeah, exactly. It's going to take many matches before you'll be on top. Those are the exact words you told us before Unscripted when describing Logan McAllister. Those words apply to you."

Eve gets her balance in the seated position and nods in agreement.

"You guys are definitely right. This journey is not going to be easy. I have learned my lesson from last time. I can't just expect the World title or a Lethal Lottery victory because I believe I am the best. I just have to work hard and continue to strive. Determination. All that..."

"Yeah, you've got the idea!"

"Sorry about the rant today. I did not expect to do one of them today."

"That's okay, we'll just chalk it up to you being delirious from pain. Here, lay back on the bed and we'll just relax and talk today. When the pain goes, we'll discuss it further. For now, just be happy you won and recover."

Eve slowly goes back to the bed head and leans on it, laying in the middle between Selena and Stacey who are both sitting in a similar position. The three of them raise their glasses and cling them together, taking a drink of their whiskey. For a moment, the three of them sat there in silence and relaxing, taking a breath from everything. It felt good to finally be laying back down. Even though there was searing pain in the stomach, a massive migraine and her back was beginning to complain, Eve was happy to be there. She had friends who cared for her, some momentum behind her, a second chance for the World title upcoming shortly and a massive reboot to the company approaching in the form of the Roulette Rounds. For this brief moment, living life felt amazing.

"You know," Eve said, breaking the silence, "normally when I'm between two women in a bed, they aren't as clothed as we are."

Eve smiles at the joke as she looks at the other two. Selena and Stacey turn to Eve in disgust immediately and begin getting out of bed quickly.

"Oh, Jesus Christ. Really?"

"What is wrong with you, Eve? That's really inappropriate."

"I was just joking! I was making a joke. I thought we could end this special moment in some laughs."

"Eww... special moment? Phrasing!"

"You've ruined it. Moment's gone. And to think I defended you prancing about in underwear."

"I was not prancing!"

"C'mon, Anderson. Let's find a bar somewhere. Away from this freak."

Selena is on her phone. "I've already found three good ones. You want pirate, Irish or the local hotspot?"

"I want more whiskey. Let's go pirate. I've never been."

"It's pretty good. I love pirate bars!"

"Really? I did not know that about you."

"Yeah, I think they arrrrrrr pretty cool."

With that, Stacey and Selena are up and are leaving, laughing at their joke. Eve, confused by how that jokes was funny but hers wasn't, does her best to struggle with the pain and get up quickly off the bed. The pain hurts and her breathing is heavy but she is frantically looking through her clothes as best she could, doing her best to put them on.

"Hey, I'm sorry! It was a joke! Wait for me..."

Eve is last to leave the room, hopping out of the door trying to put some pants on. She heads down after Stacey and Selena with only her underwear, pants halfway down her legs and the rest of her clothes in hand. She does her best to juggle walking, putting clothes on, moving quickly and feeling pain as she passes by other strangers in the corridor.

"I wouldn't even know what being in-between two women would be like. None of my many threesomes have ever been with two other women!"


Ladies and gentlemen, this is the wrestler that believes herself to be the future World champion and complains about the current state of WZCW. Lord have mercy.

 

[BK Styles]

Three Years Ago​

‘Hang on, hang on!! Frank, can you get the door?’

‘Yep. One second!’

The bell kept on going as the door opened, and Frank, wearing a frilly apron and a pair of oven gloves, was greeted by a girl in her late twenties with long, crimson-red hair. Her eyes were red, sore, and she had a desperate look on her face.

‘Has Xander called here?’

‘Sorry, but who-‘

‘Has Xander called here?? Please??’

Heather, the mother of Triple X, suddenly came to the door. She took a moment to recognise the girl, but recognise her she did.

‘Talia, right?’

‘Mrs Knight, has Xander contacted you recently?’

‘I…no, I haven’t seen him in two months. He made his feelings perfectly clear then though-‘

Before she could finish, Talia’s desperate demeanour broke away to tears. She sunk down to the front step, sobbing uncontrollably. Heather crouched down, embracing her.

‘What? Hey, hey, come on. What's wrong, dear?’

‘X-Xander. He left in t-the middle of the night. I t-thought he might have come here, but-‘

‘But what?’

‘I…I don’t know where he is!’

She continued sobbing in Heathers arms. Frank came over, helping her up by the arm.

‘Come inside, dear. Come on.’

They ushered into the house, into the kitchen, where they sat her down. Heather sat down next to her, holding her hand, while Frank was dialling into the phone.

‘H-he won’t answer.’

Frank slammed the phone down. ‘His damn cellphone’s disconnected...’

He grabbed his coat.

‘What are you doing?’

‘I’m going out there. I’m gonna find him.’

‘You c-cant.’

‘Why not?’

Talia steadied herself as best as she could. ‘We’d gone to Europe. To get away from everything. Just us. I knew he wasn’t right but, I thought he just needed more time but, one morning he was just…’

‘You’re saying he disappeared Europe. He could still be there?’

She nodded, welling up again. She pulled a crinkled-up note out of her pocket and showed it to Frank.

‘Come here, sweetheart.’ Heather pulled her in close, embracing her. She looked up at Frank, who looked shell-shocked.

Her boy was gone, and she didn’t know where. Or why.

CHAPTER FOUR
REALLIGNMENT​

The Day After Unscripted 2017​

Triple X sat back in his seat, as the plane began to settle into its flight. Everything stabilized, the seatbelt sign switched off, and he took in a deep breath. It was the day after his loss to Lynx at Unscripted, and yet, such an event hadn’t affected him the way he thought it would.

In truth, he was rather relaxed about it.

‘Want to talk, Xander?’

X turned his head. Andrey had his head buried in an in-flight magazine, but the words definitely came from him.

‘What makes you think I do?’

‘You’re quiet. Too quiet.’

‘Maybe I just want some peace.’

‘No, usually you blast rock music out in that case. Now it seems more to me you have something on your mind.’

‘Same as always, Andrey. Nothing but the goal.’

Andrey closed the magazine and tossed it onto the tray in front of him. ‘Really? You lose against Lynx and you feel nothing?’

‘I wouldn’t say that.’ X stretched his arms up. In truth, his arm felt much better than the day before but the pain was still there. A receipt from his match. ‘And I guarantee Lynx’s neck will be feeling a hell of a lot worse.’

‘Well I imagine the victory will make him feel better.’ Andrey turns to X, almost frustrated. ‘It’s as if you don’t care about loss.’

‘Of course I do!’ X didn’t mean for his statement to be a yell, but he could tell from the people around him staring that it had clearly morphed into one. He turned to Andrey. ‘Nothing pisses me off more than knowing that asshole got the jump on me. In my first Pay Per View match back, no less. That and the referee didn’t call for a damn rope break when he should have.’

‘Well, no, it was a falls count anywhere match-‘

X shot Andrey a sharp stare.

‘The match rules were pretty clear-‘

‘I’ve seen loads of falls count anywhere matches where rope breaks have counted.’

‘Any of those in WZCW?’

‘Okay, look. Forget about the rope break. You’re right, and it doesn’t matter anyway.’

‘Why though? I do not understand. Why does everything else matter a lot and this not matter to you?’

‘Because, my friend, this was a distraction.’

The stewardess started to go by with the refreshments trolley before Xander stopped her. ‘Two Cokes please.’

‘One with Vodka.’

‘Sir, it’s 10:30 in the morning-‘

‘He’s kidding. Thank you.’

X took the cans and passed one over.

‘In Russia, this is not a true drink.’

‘I’m not even convinced you use Vodka just as a drink. I swear I’ve seen you use it as a mouthwash.’

‘Only once. Wouldn’t want to waste it like that too often.’

X smiles, before taking a sip. ‘Lynx got in my way. He was a distraction, nothing more. This loss doesn’t derail me any more than him getting involved in my business does. If anything, it helps me.’

‘How so?’

‘I am no longer under the illusion of being untouchable. If I let my guard down, even just a little bit, there’ll be a horde of others just waiting to jump ahead. When I went in there with Lynx, I still had one eye on the World Championship.’

‘Ah yes, the belt your dear friend John won.’

The mention of Costantine irked Xander to no end. He clenched the can so hard it actually crumpled a little, sending some of the drink onto the tray.

‘John Constantine, both the man and his reign, are on borrowed time. You’ve beaten him already in your short time back. Comprehensively too. Nothing has changed now, except for the fact he has more to lose.’

‘That changes everything, Andrey.’ X turned back to face him. ‘When all you hold is on the line, you’ll do anything to hold on to it, and that feeling gives you a few extra gears.’

‘Yes, but next time you two face off, you will have more to gain. And more gears as result.’

X smiled. ‘Well, I figure I’m owed another match against him seeing as I was the last man to beat the bastard.’

‘And who knows, you may even find the opportunity come sooner than you think.’

‘You think during the Roulette shows?’

‘Why not? Lady luck has funny way of showing her hand. Sometimes she plays you right into the hand you want. Sometimes she makes you wait. Who knows? But It could happen.’

X sneered at the notion. ‘Yeah. Why not.'

'Xander, you must learn how to focus fully on two targets. What lies in front of you, and what lies ahead. Lynx was in front of you, but you looked ahead to the World Heavyweight Championship. One thing at a time, both inside and out of the ring, and all will fall into place. So, my question to you is this; what's in front of you now, Xander?’

X looked out of the window, down below to the earth where Canada was crawling along by, soon giving way again to the United States.

‘A chance to realign things.’

A Few Days Later…​

Phoenix, Arizona​

‘So, what do we think?’

Frank poured himself a coffee before taking a seat back at the table. He lifted up the envelope, before throwing it into the middle of the table with the two others.

‘What do you mean?

David ‘Red’ Redfield leaned back into his chair, fingers interlocked.

‘I mean, do we think he’s…different...from before?’

‘You mean is he no longer an arse, right?’

He looked over to the right of him where Xander’s mother Heather sat. She had her elbows on the table, resting her head on her hands.

‘No offence meant.’

‘None taken.’

‘Well…yes, for a lack of a better term.’

‘I’ve said it before; Xander changes once he has a goal. He becomes determined, and he becomes aggressive, and he doesn’t always stop to think about how it affects those around him. It’s part of what makes him so damn good at it.’

Frank took a swig of coffee, pondering. ‘And he definitely hasn’t contacted you since before he left?’

‘No. The letter was the first thing I’d heard, just like you.’

‘Why now??' Heather asked. ‘Why has he waited until now to say something?’

‘I dunno. Shame maybe?’

She turned to Frank. ‘You think he’s ashamed?’

‘Wouldn’t you be?’

‘Well, yeah…’

‘The question is, would he be?’

‘The answer’s yes.’

X's voice came from down the hallway, before he finally appeared before them. He looked around the kitchen, soaking it in for the first time in over three years. Behind him, Talia stood back, allowing X to have this moment. He looked upon the three people in the room who had always constituted his family. Alongside Talia, they were everything to him.

‘Xander…’ his mothers voice quivered as she spoke. She went to stand, but X held a hand up, as if to ask her to remain where she was.

‘Please, don’t get up. I want you guys to hear what I have to say. After that, you can do what you like.’

X took a deep breath, before continuing. ‘I guess you all read the letters.’

‘You’re damn right we did. Russia?? Why the hell didn’t you reach out?’

‘Frank-‘

‘No, sorry Dave, but he could have. Why didn’t you? You let me and your mother worry something had happened to you. The only reason we even knew something was wrong was because Talia came and showed us your note and let us know what had happened.’

X looked to Talia. ‘You did what?’

‘I…I didn’t know what else to do. I hoped you’d have come to your senses and come back here.’

‘I…’

‘It’s okay. It doesn’t matter now.’

X gritted his teeth, so much so that they hurt. He ran his tongue along them; the replacements of the ones lost, both to wrestling and in Russia, before continuing. ‘I should have contacted you.’

‘Mate, what happened? Why go there? Why…put yourself through that?’

X took another deep breath, and looked down to the ground. ‘Because I deserved it.’

Silence from the three at the table. They all looked on, confused.

‘I treated you all in the worst way. I blamed you all for my failings. And that was wrong. I…I only cared about two things. Revenge, and being the best. And when I lost at All or Nothing, I…’

‘Christ, you honestly think we gave a damn about that??’

‘You may not have, but I did!’ X stopped for a moment, composing himself. ‘…I still do. And I thought I needed to get away from everything. Everything that connected me with who I am. And I did. And it took a long time, but, I finally realised that was a mistake.’

X walked over to the table, and took a seat.

‘I owe you all one hell of an apology.’

‘Alex-‘

‘No, mom. No. You didn’t deserve to be treated the way I treated you. Even before I left, I was a ghost. You had to come see me, only for me to scream in your face. And you guys.’ He looked up at Frank and Red. ‘You’ve been my rocks. The people I turn to when I’ve needed advice. I pushed you all away.’

‘Yeah, mate. You did.’

‘And for that I’m sorry. But…’ X looked again at Talia, who smiled and nodded at him. ‘I’m not sorry for who I am. Whether it’s who I’ve always been deep down or who I’ve become. This is me. I’m going to mess up. I’ve always been great at that. But I can’t change who I am. And who I am is someone who is obsessed with being the best. For that I make no apology. But I do for thinking I could do it without any of you.’

Silence. Nothing but silence amongst the group, for what felt like an age.

‘I’ll go. None of you need this-‘

‘Now wait just one minute.’ Frank stood up. X looked his father figure in the eye for the first time in what seemed like forever. ‘You think we care just how badly you screw up? We all have, good lord. And you know about my mistakes more than most. We make them, but what’s important is how we deal with them afterward. Sometimes we know what to do right away. Sometimes…it can take some time.’

X laughed, not derisively, but simply because he wasn’t sure of what he was hearing. ‘You still want to be there for me, even after everything?’

‘Mate, that’s never been in doubt.’ Red’s voice was soft, softer than X had ever heard. 'Yes, okay, you’ve pushed us away, and dropped off of the face of the Earth. And there’s some trust that needs to be built back up, for sure. But we’ve always been here, Xander. Always. And I for one aren’t going anywhere. Well, maybe Japan, I’ve got a run of six months booked over there but, you get what I mean.’

‘Alex.’ His mother reached out and grabbed his hand. ‘You’re here. Nothing else in the world matters to me. Whatever else has happened is in the past. You are my son and nothing will change that. Not one thing.’

She smiled at him, and reached in to hug him. Frank walked around the table, as did Red, and the four all embraced in the middle of the Knight family kitchen. Talia watched on, tears silently rolling down her cheek, smiling.

Red turned to her. ‘Don’t think you’re not involved, love. Get in here.’

Her smile widened, and she joined the group. A family reunited.

. . . . . .​

‘She’s a lovely girl.’

Frank drank his coffee as X sat back. The two of them, along with Red, were in the garden, as the sun was beginning to set. Through the window, they could see Talia and X’s mother, talking, laughing, getting to know one another whilst cooking.

‘She really is.’ X had often worried about how Frank, his mom, hell, even Red, would take to Talia, but every single one of them saw in her what he did. And he couldn’t be prouder.

‘Yep, you’re batting way above your average there.’

X laughed at Red’s comment. ‘You don’t need to remind me.'

‘…no, I’m pretty sure that’s my job, if I’m honest.’

He laughed again, and smiled. ‘I’ve missed you guys.’

‘We’ve missed you. We all have.’

‘Not all.’

Frank and Red looked at each other, puzzled, before coming to the same conclusion.

‘You sent one to Faith didn’t you?’

X looked back down, nodding.

‘Dude, in all honesty, I haven’t seen her in…a long time.’

‘I haven’t seen her since before you left.’

‘It’s fine. I didn’t figure even you all would be here.’

‘She probably just needs more time.’

‘Yeah.’ X looked down to the ground.

A silence fell between the three men for a few moments. X knew Faith. Even with everything that had changed, he still knew how she thought. He knew she would be ashamed of him. But not for how he’d not talked to anyone, or let anyone know he was okay. No, she’d be mad for before.

FOUR YEARS AGO...​

‘Xander…’

Faith turns me around, her hand now touching the side she hit moments ago.

‘…what happened to you?’

I take her hand and remove it from my face. Her eyes have gone from hate-filled to remorseful in moments, but I can tell she is confused by my cold, dark expression.

‘I finally grew up.’

‘That’s not what I’d call it.’

‘I knew you wouldn’t understand.’

‘You’re damn right, I don’t. you’ve turned your back on everyone who cared about you. Who still cares about you.’

‘Faith, I’m doing what I have to. I’ve been used for years by wrestling fans all around the world. They pick me up, and throw me away when they get bored. And then, just for the fun of it, they rinse and repeat. I’m not taking it any more.’

‘What, so the solution is to throw a finger up at them.’

‘Hey, I might do that on Meltdown…’

‘I’m serious.’

‘And so am I. You have no idea what it’s like. Trying to be the good guy. The hero. Then I came to realise the truth.’

‘And what’s that?’

‘That there’s no such thing as heroes. Or villains. There are only those who believe they are right. None of us benefit from playing good vs evil, and the fans get to sit back and watch us beat each other up for false satisfaction. Except now I know I’ve got the true satisfaction every time I go out there and beat one of their flavours of the month, because I get to rub it in their face.’

She stands there for a moment, her eyes fixed on me, before a look of disappointment creeps up upon her face.

‘You need to get your head out of your ass, X.’

‘You sound just like them.’

‘And there’s your problem.’ Faith walks past me and opens the door, holding it open. ‘I wasn’t on about the fans. I was on about us. Me, Red, Frank, and your mother, all of whom you ignored when you took off.’

My confident demeanour evaporates instantly. Mom. Frank. All of these people I care about; I was so wrapped up in everything, I hadn’t even stopped to think. I look back up at Faith, and walk back out of her apartment. I climb into the car and stop to think for a moment.

I’m angry. Very angry.

‘…X?’

Xander snapped out of his daydream. ‘Sorry, yeah?’

‘I asked how it’s been. WZCW. Put in a good word yet for you ol’ buddy Red?’

X laughed. ‘Dude, I’m not sure you want in at the moment-‘

‘I’m just joking. But in all seriousness, how’s it been?’

‘Yeah…it’s…’ X struggled to find the right words for a moment. ‘It fits a purpose. Besides, I have unfinished business there. I don’t owe them a damn thing, but they owe me a Championship. One I’ll take gladly when the opportunity arises.’

X turned to Frank, with an almost reluctant smile on his face. ‘You disapprove already, right?’

Frank smiled. ‘Xander, whether I do or not, you aren’t going to listen to me. Wrestling’s your passion. Your life. Just…don’t neglect the rest of your life to serve it.’

‘Don’t worry. I won’t be the one serving. WZCW will be serving my will before too long.’

‘Yeah. Big man here’s gonna be the Champion.’

‘That’s the plan.’

‘Well, speaking of plans, you ready for the roulette rounds?’

X took a deep breath, and smiled. ‘Yeah. Yeah, I think so. It’s tough, not knowing who your opponent will be, but you forget that your opponent is in the same situation. Hell, I could come up against Constantine, and, well. We all saw what happened after I last faced him.’

X looked over to Frank, who had a somewhat vacant expression. ‘I beat him.’

‘Oh?’

‘Yeah, Clean as a whistle-‘

‘Hey, come on….’

‘Close enough, alright?’

‘Wow. And he’s Champion now, right?’

‘Yup.’

‘I see.’ Frank stood up. ‘Well, I for one, think you’d make a great Champion.’

X smiled. ‘I’m not going after this to be a role model. I’m going after it because it’s rightfully mine.'

‘I know, but even so. Let an old man dream, Xander.’ He walked over and placed his hand on his shoulder. ‘I don’t think you’re as bitter about things as you’ve convinced yourself. And I’d like to think the time will come where you’ll look back on all this and see the good you can provide, beyond serving your personal goals.’ He carried on walking. ‘But for now, earn your glory and bask in it. Lord knows you’ve earned it.’

The door opened, with Talia leaning out. ‘Boys, foods up!’

‘About time!’

Red and Frank both went inside, leaving X and Talia there for a moment of privacy.

‘You okay?’

He smiled. ‘Yeah. Yeah, I think I am.’

She wrapped her arms around him. ‘Good.’

She let go, and as she walked back in, X’s mother came out to greet her boy.

‘She’s a really lovely girl.’

‘You have no idea.’ X sat on the steps leading down to the garden. ‘She’s been the best thing that’s happened to me for a long time.’

‘I can tell.’ She leaned down, kissing him on top of his head. ‘You seem more at peace when she’s around.’

The two stood there for a moment, as day began to fully form into night.

‘I am proud of everything you’ve done, Alex. Mistakes or no mistakes, you learn from each one and never make them again. You learn, you grow, and you get better at what you do.’

‘You’re damn wise, you know that?’

‘Of course I am, I’m your mother. Now get in and eat!’

She patted him on the shoulder, before turning and heading in. X watched her walk in, before staring back up to the sky.

You learn, you grow, and get better, huh?

Then John Constantine, or anyone else who gets put in front of me, better watch their fucking back.

 

[Wildcat66]

The Day Before Unscripted:

There would be no visit to the gym today.

War Zone had other things in mind besides that.

He had to visit a very special friend. Someone he had known for a long time. Someone who despite all the accusations and controversy he had committed, was someone that he could trust on to lend a helping hand in trials of trauma.

That man was Joseph McCarthy.

Now Joseph McCarthy as most of us know was the paranoid senator of Wisconsin, constantly warning americans everywhere that anyone, yes; anyone at anytime could be secretly found to be working for the Soviet Union: Basically being a traitor of the American way and a endorser of the ultimate sin. Communism.

Not many a senator liked him, and perhaps this was to be expected. He never did like them back and his message was seen to them as little more than a nusiance. But even so, he did have his admirers.

War Zone was one of those admirers.

So on the eve before Unscripted, looking for something; anything to help break him out of his funk, he took a bus ride whilst no one was looking and headed his way to Appleton, Wisconsin; the place where it was presumed Joseph McCarthy was buried in.

He searched high, he searched low, he searched every which way and what until at long last; he came across a cemetery owned by a beautiful saint named Mary. It twas there he looked for his resting place, refusing to stop until he had done so.

Once he had found his destination, he took a brief look around his surroundings; hoping that neither Troy Excellence or Kimberly Katherine Rollins had taken an airplane to Wisconsin to find him. When it was confirmed that he was a lone man. He took a deep breath, looked long and hard into the grave of McCarthy and spoke to him.

War Zone:
Mr. McCarthy...for many years, you have been an inspiration to not just me, but many willing soldiers, ready and able to fight against the communist cause even if it means having to do whatever it takes to do so. The many people that have taken your strong, powerful words to heart and made it their life’s creed, even their life’s work have proven that you have forever left your mark in our dangerous and confusing world. True, there were detractors, those that may have laughed and scoffed at your words of truth...but to hell with them. The commie bastards they are.

War Zone hesitates for a moment, but continues onward.

War Zone:
They never truly did appreciate the words you preached to many a person. I did...so did many of my former army men, who fought to defend our country throughout many threat over the years: Most recently, as part of the victorious Allied Powers of the second world war. Well, we’ve beaten them and it’s guaranteed that we will beat communism and it’s forefather: The Soviet Union. (Sigh) But that is not why I come here, Mr. McCarthy…

The reason I come here is simple: You have always been willing to give me advice on how to proceed into a better tomorrow. Even when I was still being worked on and tested back in the Pentagon, you were one of the biggest supporters I ever had. And every time I needed it, you were always here to give me the answers to my questions. And now, it is that time again.

Mr. McCarthy: As you know, I am currently under military assignment working on the last best chance for a revival of the Ultimate Soldier; or as the ‘futuristic cyborgs of the 21st century’ call it, WCZW. Unfortunately, things have not gone as planned...far from planned i’m afraid. Despite my best efforts, I have only been able to achieve one measly victory. And as glorious as it was to end the career...no, end the LIFE of Obi Okafor...that is not enough for me. For you know what I aim for in life; I aim to be the Ultimate Soldier: The one true military hawk who always comes through in battle, the one who always prevails in combat, the one option that will always stay strong as newer and brighter technology threatens to take its place. Any less than that, and I will have failed Mr. President; The great Dwight Eisenhower.

And despite the acquisitions of a rather...odd, but well-intentioned man by the name of Troy Excellence and the promiscuous but uniquely captivating stylings of a female named Kimberly Katherine Rollins, I have still not had the success I imagined myself having. It has come to the point where I have begun to question whether I am truly worthy of the title of ‘Ultimate Soldier’...and it has gotten to a point where, I, War Zone; conqueror of war...have considered retreat.

War Zone shudders just at the thought of saying that.

War Zone:

So this is my question to you, Mr. McCarthy...How does one keep going despite failure after failure. How can you continue to show your face when you cannot even reach past the littlest of pit stops and through the atmosphere. Mr. McCarthy, I ask you this not just as War Zone: But also as the ‘human name’ they gave me when I was first created, Robert Gwynn Jr.

How can you continue the war, if you can’t win the easiest of battles?

And he waited...for a sign...for a whisper...for a sound…

He stayed in that very spot for minutes without end, complete silence filling the air. No one was quite sure why it was that he was there, all they knew was that big, muscular looking guy was staring at the graveyard of one of the most controversial senators in a lifetime. Some even made a few rather unpleasant looking faces at him, unwilling to believe that anyone could respect someone like McCarthy. But he didn’t care, War Zone was to hear what he had to say; and not a soul was going to dare try and stop him from doing so.

No soul expect perhaps, he himself.

Finally, after quite a while had passed. He did something he rarely ever did...he smiled. It wasn’t the biggest of smiles, just a tiny grin; but for a short while, War Zone felt a sense of what it was like back when he was in the army all those years ago; training with the others, being worked on and checked for bugs, even when he was placed on ‘time out’ for roughhousing with some of the boys in the back. This was exactly like those times.

And then, he looked at the gravestone of Joseph’s; softly kissing the forehead of it to show his respect. The last words he said to him, in his quietest of voices?

War Zone:

Thank you.

And off he went, back to WZCW and if he was lucky, hopefully back in time for Unscripted. Sure, he’d probably have to deal with a rather upset Troy and a more than likely bothered Kimberly complaining about how her high heels she just ‘had to wear’ were messing up how she usually walked. But at least he was going home to potentially begin the Empire of War. This time, with a clear mind and a gameplan set for the future.

Of course, War Zone would go on to lose that match, as he had almost every other match. But it didn't matter, he had listened to what Joseph McCarthy had said to him, and he had promised himself to stick through the new code by thick and thin. And it wasn’t all bad news for him either, what with a new Mayhem champion waiting at the wings; the recent demise of Vis Imperium and the upcoming Roulette Round: The next few weeks looked to be the most interesting weeks of the short career of War Zone yet.

The words that Joseph McCarthy said to him did something to him that day he went to Appleton. They brought back a fire inside of him, a fire thought to have long been put out. A fire that would spread across WZCW, and all throughout the world and anyone who dared threaten America or her allies. God help anyone who tried in vain to challenge him, for he would run them over and render them obsolete.

But what exactly was it that Joseph said to him that brought his spirit back from the brick that cold evening in Appleton?

Well friends: All we can say for certain is that no matter how we look at things, no one can truly say we know a person’s true motives. The question that should really be asked is: How much do we really know of War Zone?

 

[Bernkastel]

Happiness can take many forms. Success. Winning. Overcoming new obstacles. Happiness is associated with positive words and positive vibes. Following Unscripted, Kagura felt happy even though she had lost. Normally she’d be furious. She’d be disappointed. She’d resolve to work even harder next time. Critiquing herself, until being pulled in by a deep depression. That was routine. After all, a loser shouldn’t be happy. And yet, she was. Since winning the KFAD briefcase, there was something that had been holding her back. Something keeping her from making that next step with confidence. And at Unscripted, she finally found that missing piece of the puzzle. And that was a rival.

‘I won’t lie, when I became Queen for a Day, I felt privileged. Accomplished. Distinguished. All I wanted to do was cash in and go for broke immediately, to see if I could win it all as fast as possible. It would have been a rookie mistake. I remember sitting in my hotel room that evening, pacing, thinking about my next step. The world champion was Justin Cooper. Vis Imperium was still at the height of its power, with no end in sight. If I had cashed in, and was successful, then what would that have meant for the company? I realized that the company had a natural order to it that I couldn’t break. Vis Imperium was destined to crumble. I foresaw it. And yet I did nothing, because it wasn’t my place. There were too many players on the board. Too many emotions to deal with. If I had upset that balance, then where would those emotions had gone? I watched Justin Cooper standing alone at the top. Mark Keaton, Xander LeBelle, Andrew Adonis; they were just pawns. An insurance policy to protect him just in case someone got too close to the world champion.’

Kagura eyed the KFAD briefcase in front of her as she pondered her thoughts. The silver handle glistened, reflecting the luminance from the overhead light. She gripped her fist, imagining an alternative future. What might have happened if she had interrupted the feud between Vis Imperium and WZCW?

‘And then I saw Banks behind the scenes, pulling strings like a puppet master. That’s not the type of champion I wanted to be. Cooper used people. And his ego got so big that he didn’t realize that he was being used in return. Cooper was peerless. There was no one on his level, and he knew it. That’s when the power shifted. Tyrone Blades and Titus Avison joined forces. It took two of the strongest wrestlers in the league to combine their strength to fight the machine that had become Vis Imperium. And the knight in shining armor? The hero of the story? The man that I foresaw that was destined to slay the beast? John Constantine. The former leader of Vis Imperium who had been ousted by his former allies. There was too much history in that rivalry for me to want to get involved. I couldn’t, because I was awestruck. Justin Cooper and John Constantine were essentially to sides of the same exact coin. John was everything Cooper had wanted to be, and when he finally got his wish, it was Constantine sitting on the bottom, looking up. In the shadows, I watched. I wanted to see what this proud man was going to do. When Cooper reached the top, he abandoned his hunger, his drive to win, his will to be the best, because he had already reached the top. And in the process, Constantine absorbed everything that Justin had dropped. He transformed himself into an avenger. And that’s when I realized that even if I had won the title and beaten Cooper, I too would have plateaued. I would be the one sitting at the top, looking down at all the little ants scurrying beneath me. Maybe then Cooper would have inherited the desire that I left behind, and would have hunted me down for revenge. The same way that John had done to him. After watching Justin Cooper and John Constantine, and Tyrone Blades and Kenneth Banks, I realized that I needed a rival of my own. Someone that could keep me on my toes. Someone that would force me to constantly watch my back. Someone whose skill and power would prevent me from plateauing once I reached the top. I just hadn’t realized that in the natural order of things, one had already been chosen for me.’

---​

From Meltdown 144​

He goes to spit when out of nowhere Kagura fires first spitting red mist into the eyes of the World Champion! The crowd explode with cheers as Cooper begins scratching at his eyes, screaming in pain and pleading for help. Keaton rushes into the ring but Kagura hits a judo throw and sends him spilling to the outside. She turns her attention to Cooper and the crowd are standing as Kagura grabs the World Champion from behind locking in the Fourth Dance of Toyouke Omikami (Sleeper Hold with body scissors). The fans are all chanting "Tap" while Cooper is clawing at the canvas of the ring, his body failing him and his calls for Keaton are unheard. Nobody is there to save him, Justin Cooper taps out in the middle of the ring to Kagura!

Here are your winners, the team of Eve Taylor and Kagura!!

From Ascension 121​

Batti and Blades both get back to their feet but there is a look of rage on the features of the weeb. She marches right over to Blades and pushes her hands straight into his chest – sending him backwards towards the ropes. Blades hits the ropes and bounces back towards his opponent. But instead of using the opening to leather Batti with some sort of clubbing blow, he keeps his arms at his side and his head turned away from the blonde in front of him. Batti looks even more annoyed with the inaction of her opponent and shoves him again. But the result of the shove is the same as Blades refuses to lay his hands on Batti in anger. Suddenly, a slap to the face is the result of Blades' inaction. The crowd take a sharp intake of breath as Blades turns back to Batti with a look on anger on his face. Batti pushes him one final time and, this time, Blades does go for the clothesline. But Batti has it well-scouted and manages to duck underneath his flailing arm. Suddenly, she gets behind Blades and rolls him up with the pin-fall attempt.

She grabs his belt and hold them for the 1... 2... 3! Batti has done it!

‘We both came so far, staking our claims as the future of WZCW. Victories over legends. Champions. Hall of famers. I became the first Queen for a Day. Barely. But I knew it wasn’t a fluke. I had poured my heart and soul into that match. And Batti knew this too. At least I had suspected she did. She wanted to prove to herself that she had what it took to beat me. And at Unscripted, I wanted to see for myself if she really could.’

---​

Kagura could foresee the future; it was one of her many gifts as a shrine maiden priestess. And despite the language barrier, plenty of people had in the past sought her out to tell them their futures. But, as she had explained to them in the past, even though she could see glimpses of the future, there’s nothing that she or anyone else could do to change it. Heading into Unscripted, she had already foreseen that she was going to lose. No matter what she did. And her eventual loss was not a self-fulling prophecy; at least not in her eyes. This was destiny…

From Unscripted​

DING DING DING!​

Kagura immediately hauls on the chain with both arms making Batti stumble forward a little. Kagura laughs at her opponents clumsiness. Batti makes on like she's going to do the same thing, causing Kagura to brace her feet, Batti yells -Psyche!- and runs across the ring with speed! She jumps and slides into Kagura's legs with a fast baseball slide dropkick, causing Kagura to hit the canvas face first. Kagura scrambles to her feet but Batti is on her quickly, slapping and chopping at the QFAD holder's shoulders and head with everything she can throw at her, Kagura stops the momentum with a blazing quick chain whip to Batti's face! Crack! Batti falls to the mat quickly, holding her stinging face.

Ohhhhhhhh!​

The camera zooms on a little girl with a Batti shirt on covering her mouth in shock. Kagura has a slightly evil smirk on her face now as she wraps the chain around her forearm and elbow.

Copeland: My goodness, that's a weapon being wrapped around a weapon.

Kagura starts laying in vicious chain assisted forearm shots to a downed Batti, over and over again while Batti has her arms wrapped around her head to try and fend off the heavy blows. The clinking, vicious forearms continue, little droplets of blood can be seen on Batti's red arms. Kagura unwraps the chain and rubs her sore forearm. She kicks Batti a few times to her shoulders and legs then drops down for a cover.

1....

2....

Batti kicks out and Kagura grabs her in a headlock to contain her.

‘A chain match; A bit unorthodox for me, and clearly Batti had been out of her element as well. But I wanted to see if she wanted this as much as I did. And not the win. The rivalry. I wanted to see if she really wanted to be the opposite side of my coin; the yin to my yang. We had already been through so much together, but nothing like this. Much like my Library brawl with Ramparte, this match was about survival.’

Batti slowly makes it to her feet, she hauls Kagura to her feet, she kicks Kagura in the gut then whips her in the back on the head with the chain, it staggers Kagura more, Batti removes her boot, she bounces off of the ropes again and hits ❤Sooo Kawaii Kick❤ but Kagura dodges it!! She jumps and hits Batti with First Dance of Awarawa no Mikoto the shining wizard sends Batti flying through the middle ropes, the momentum hauls Kagura neck first into the top ropes, bending her head back in an awkward angle then draping her limp body on the middle ropes!

Copeland: NO! That was just sickening! She could very well have a broken neck here! Somebody come out and check on her please! Stop this match before somebody gets killed!

After several moments, medics come out and check on Kagura. She still hasn't moved and they gently lay her down in the ring, the fans are standing, slack jawed at the scene before them. Batti rolls in the ring, she has a concerned expression now as the medic shine pen lights in Kagura's eyes, they check her bad cut and wipe away some blood from her face. Batti turns to the fans, she starts clapping, trying to get the fans to get behind Kagura so she'll be O.K, but they react when Kagura jumps Batti from behind! She punches her in the face with a the chain then jumps on her shoulders, she quickly rolls forward for Third Dance of Amenouzume no Mikoto – Manami Toyota style high speed victory roll and wraps the chain around one of her legs quickly!!!

1....

2....

Batti kicks out!!

‘It was about here that I slowly began to realize that Batti wanted a rival like me after all. If I had been injured; if my career would have ended, that would have been a waste for her right? It made me happy hearing her cheer for me. Willing me back to my feet, so that she could pound on me some more. I realized that she didn’t want to be left behind. She didn’t want to be looking at my shadow in the future.’

Both women lay in the center of the ring, breathing heavy and covered in bruises, cuts, red marks, Kagura with a new stream of blood pouring out of her cut, Batti with her finger swollen double it's size, Kagura with parts of her hair singed and white fire ******ant all over her. The medics cleared the ring but watched with concern on the outside. Referee Akiyama starts asking if they can continue, they both growl at him to shut up. They both slowly make it to their feet, they lean on each other in the center of the ring. The fans start chanting - This is awesome- as they continue to lean on each other for support. Kagura fires off a slow, lethargic palm strike that Batti absorbs to her face, Batti slaps back, then whips the chain at Kagura's face but she dodges it, a really hard palm strike flies from Kagura this time! Crack! right on Batti's nose! Blood starts pouring out of her nose as her eyes water, she back pedals to the ropes, blood dripping down into her mouth. Kagura runs and swings the chain but Batti ducks, she wraps the chain around Kagura's knee and picks her right up in a facelock! DANGEROUS DDT with the chain wrapped around her knee! Both wrestlers are tangled in the chain now, Batti with one last effort...rolls over in the tangled mess and lays on top of Kagura...

1....

2....

3 !!!

DING! DING! DING!​

Cheeeer!!​

Harrys: The winner of this match, Batti!!

‘We were both at our limits. In a flash, all my strength just left my body. I felt Batti’s body collapse on top of mine. Her breath was labored, and she was covered in sweat. I felt something trickle into my mouth. I tasted it. Blood! And it wasn’t mine either. Her finger was swollen. Her head was bleeding. I suspected mine was too, considering the state of my ring gear. We both looked like fools. Beating the Hell of each other for supposedly nothing. Over the outcome of a match in the past that had already been decided. But that wasn’t the case. As she laid on top of me, I heard her heart beating. It sounded like a jackhammer! I knew then that Batti wanted to keep up with me as much as I wanted her too. Because she knew that when I did become world champion, she wanted to be my foil. She wanted us to have a rivalry like Showtime and Ty Burna. Titus and Everest. Constantine and Steven Holmes. Saxton/Saboteur and Strikeforce. And that made me happy. I graciously took my defeat. And with a smile, I silently promised her that I was never going to plateau. And that I would never again see her back ahead of mine.’

---​

The light flickered slightly overhead and buzzed. Kagura remained in tune with her thoughts, as the sound of running water could faintly be heard coming from the shower. She gently ran her hand over the briefcase, the side of it having been damaged after being chucked off a roof after a wild night of partying. Being able to cut loose. Being able to smile. That was a sign of happiness too. Changing. Evolving. Adapting. Those were exciting prospects. She could now move forward with zero regrets. And with more confidence than ever before. Batti had given her something extraordinary in defeat; a reason to keep fighting once she had finally reached the top of mountain. However; there was one event coming up that could potentially change all of that…

‘Do I want to know my future going forward? No. I haven’t checked. Gambling for the most part is banned in my country. I tried it for the first time when I visited Las Vegas. Sin City. Put in a coin; pull the slot. Maybe even win a prize. Fail? Spend another coin. And then another. It truly was sinful. Shameful behavior for a proper lady like me. To hell with being proper! Gambling is fun. Especially when you have an insurance policy.’

She took her hand off the briefcase and leaned back on the couch, looking up at the ceiling. She turned her attention towards the bathroom, hearing the water shut off.

‘The Roulette Rounds. Anything could happen. And I won’t have a clue who my opponent will be. I won’t know what kind of match I will be in. I could end up fighting Batti Otaku again, and add another chapter to our rivalry. I could be fighting Titus for a rematch for the Eurasian title, or I could be fighting Vox in an exhibition. I could be in a tag match with one partner, or two, or three. I could be in a cage match, or a ladder match, or a tables match. Or all three at once. I could face a current hall of famer, a future legend, or a preliminary fighter. I won’t have a clue. But as Queen for a Day, even if I end up fighting for a title and I do lose, I’ll at least have another shot. The Roulette can be bittersweet. Those of us that were banged up at Unscripted, aren’t at 100%. Even the world champion might fall prey, and lose. What would that mean for me, as the Queen for a Day, if I am chosen to fight Constantine? What happens if I win? Do I have to surrender the case? That would suck. If I defeat Matt Tastic for the Elite Openweight title, am I still eligible for a world title shot? I potentially could be holding two titles at the same time. That is a fun prospect to ponder, but a worrying one as well. Everything that I have worked for so far could disappear. My aspirations. My dreams. My rivalry with Batti. Gone. Why would she continue to put in the effort to chase me, if I forfeited my potential world title shot after winning another, lesser title? Truly; the Roulette was going to be bothersome.’

Kagura sighed as the bathroom door opened. Derrick emerged, freshly showered and wearing nice clothes. He was in the process of tying his tie. Lost in thought, she ignored him until he sat down beside her. She turned and looked at him.

“Hey babe, are you happy?” she suddenly asked.

He raised an eyebrow, “Yeah, I’d have to say I’m generally pretty happy. Why?”

Kagura chuckled, “No reason. Just thinking that as of lately, that I have been pretty happy too.”

He laughed, “Good. I hear this restaurant that we are going to is a local favorite. Should be amazing.”

She smiled and nodded, “Yeah.”

Bonds. Those can create happiness as well. She bonds she shared with Derrick, as they traveled together. The bonds she shared with Sasuke, as he slowly recovered at home. The bonds she shared with Batti Otaku, forged in the rivalry they had established. The bonds she had with her opponents, through the mutual respect or distrust or animosity they shared with one another. And for once, heading into the Roulette rounds, she was happy. Content with her current spot, would be a better description. Everyone was starting off with a new slate. Anything could happen. For better or worse. One thing was for certain, the landscape in WZCW was going to be changing soon. And Kagura knew that she did not want to get lost in the shuffle. She did not want to start drowning again in the cold, dark abyss. She had finally made it onto dry land; basking in the rays of the sun.

 

[Skairipa Matrix]

#WhatNow

A Week After Unscripted: Callie's Bedroom In Her New York Home ​

I felt empty, it had been a week since Unscripted, since I lost my championship and I still felt empty, and I was still sore too, stupid blood thirsty fans forcing me into a Mayhem Rules Match. After the show I went home, and went straight into my room without saying a word to anybody, I was in no mood to talk and I was tired. But now it was a week later and I was still hiding out in my room, no talking to anybody, not one post on social media, nothing. But what was I supposed to do? Act like everything was fine? Like my championship wasn't stolen from me? The last time I did anything like this was back in my junior year of high school, before I became the person I am today, when I was just a weak and pathetic little girl.

About 5 Years Ago:​

We go inside a high school in New York where a young Callie Clark is standing with her back against a wall with a group of 3 popular girls, Ashley Winter, Sarah Wagner and Lauren Bennett in front of her, keeping her where she is. Upon closer look Callie looks a little scared while looking for a way to escape.

Ashley Winter: Look at you, you're so short you don't even belong in high school!

Sarah Wagner: Yeah my little brother is taller than you and he's 13! And he's less of a nerd, I mean who likes comic books!?

Callie: I do!

Just as she speaks up, the third and largest of the girls shoves her back against the wall, causing Callie to hit the back of her head against the wall.

Lauren Bennett: Nobody asked you to talk little girl!

Ashley Winter: Yeah I think you do enough talking already, and now you're gonna pay for the names you called us.

Quickly Sarah and Lauren grab Callie's arms to hold her back and she starts kicking at Ashley, who avoids the kicks and punches her in the stomach hard! Callie is doubled over now but just as it looks like things are gonna go from bad to worse for her, a new voice is heard from a little ways down the hall.

???: HEY! LEAVE MY SISTER ALONE!

The girls release Callie, who falls to her knees on the floor before turning toward the voice which is coming from the much bigger Clark sister, Gabi. As Gabi gets closer, the 3 girls run off deciding not to pick a fight with her, and Gabi decides not to give chase, instead checking on her sister.

I sat on my bed thinking back to that day, that was near the end of my junior year, those girls had tormented me throughout the year and I couldn't even fight my own battle. I had to have Gabi help me. I went home that day and sat in my room, alone, feeling bad for myself. But that day something changed in me, I decided I was done being a victim, I was done letting people push me around, and after doing my best to avoid those girls the last month of school, I told Bates to arrange a self defense class for me. I was going to learn to fight, but with the help of Gabi I also learned to gain self confidence, and realized I was simply better than those girls in every single way. Gabi had graduated, I'd be on my own, and I was going to put those girls in their place, at my feet.

4 Years Ago: ​

It was the first day of school and I had a swagger in my step, knowing today was going to be the day everything changed. New clothes and new hair style to match the new attitude, and I was ready to show those bitches that they'd been messing with the wrong girl these last couple years. Finally my chance to do just that arrived, I had just dropped some things off in my locker when I heard a familiar, annoying voice.

???: Hey girls look who it is, it's little Callie Clark! And this year she doesn't have her big sister to protect her!

It was Lauren Bennett, the "leader" of the mean girls, and the one who I wanted to hit the most. I simply smirked to myself, before turning around to face the 3 girls and rolling my eyes at them.

Callie: What do you want Lauren? I've got better things to do than sit here and waste my time on you and your loser friends.

Lauren turned to her friends, Ashley and Sarah, together the three of them laughed. In that moment it took some restraint to not just punch them all in their ugly faces.

Lauren: Whoa hear that girls? Sounds like Clark thinks she's tough now, maybe she needs a reminder who runs this school...

I knew what was coming now, Lauren threw a punch at me, I was faster than her though and ducked, causing her to slam her fist right into my locker. She yelped in pain as she held her hand in her other one and I couldn't help but smile.

Lauren: What are you standing around for? Get her!

Lauren stood back as Ashley and Sarah tried to grab me, last year this is where I'd be about to get beat up, this year I was ready for them. I shoved Ashley into Sarah, knocking Sarah to the ground, then grabbed the arm of Ashley and twisted it behind her back before shoving her against the locker as hard as I could, with her begging me to let go, I did. I saw Lauren through the corner of my eye think about making another attempt at hurting me, so I whipped around and held up a hand to stop her.

Callie: I wouldn't do that if I was you, unless you want everybody to know about your little drunken streaking adventure over the summer. And by knowing, I mean seeing pictures.

I smirked an evil smirk and held up my phone, I could see the shock in her face, I had blackmail over her. Sometimes having a big sister with connections can be super useful.

Lauren: How did you...

I put my finger over her mouth, signaling for her to shut up. Oh how I've wanted to do that for years.

Callie: Don't worry about it, all you need to know I own you, I have extras of the pictures, and if you or your sidekicks ever even LOOK at me again, I'll ruin your life. This is my school now.

I could see the anger in the face of the three girls, they knew I had them.

Lauren: Ugh, whatever. Come on girls, let's go.

The three girls walked away, defeated. This was the moment that changed everything, I wasn't some helpless girl who got bullied anymore, now I'd be doing the bullying and soon I had taken my spot as the queen bee of the school.

A loud pounding on my door snapped me back to reality, I was still sitting on my bed in my room, but now I wasn't sulking like I had been for days, I was smiling. I hadn't done that since before Unscripted, it felt good. The pounding on my door continued, and was now met with yelling.

Gabi: CALLIE! OPEN THE DOOR, YOU'VE BEEN HIDING IN THERE FOR A WEEK, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!

I thought about it, I had been hiding out in here for a week hadn't I? Sulking because of the stupid fans causing me to lose my championship, everybody knows if it had been a Pure Rules or Iron Man Match the result would have been different. In the last week I had only barely left my room, and when I did I didn't say a word to Gabi or Bates. I guess I have to talk to them eventually, and something told me Gabi wasn't going to take no or silence for an answer this time. I got off the bed, walked over to the door and opened it, as soon as I did Gabi barged in and sat down on my bed, how rude.

Gabi: Thank god you finally opened the door, I thought I was going to have to break down the door.

I let out a little laugh at that, and sat down next to Gabi on the bed.

Gabi: You laugh but I'm serious, I was trying to figure out how I was going to do it. But anyway now I finally got in here, why are you being like this? Sure you lost the belt, but we both know you'll beat Tastic when you get a rematch and take the title back! Besides it's the holiday season, you can't be sad during the holidays!

I slowly nodded my head, she was right, I would get a rematch and that's my chance to take my championship back.

Callie: Bah Humbug!

I smiled as I said it, and Gabi rolls her eyes and smiles back at me.

Gabi: Yeah yeah scrooge, now let's talk seriously. How are you doing? Still sore from the mayhem rules match?

Callie: A little bit, as much as I don't like Tastic, and trust me I hate him more than Christmas music, he might be the toughest competitor I've ever faced. When I face him again, I'm going to have to try something new to beat him.

Gabi nodded, and chuckled at the bit about Christmas music. But it really is the worst music ever.

Gabi: Yeah maybe, but right now you can't worry about Tastic.

Callie: I know, the next shows are the roulette rounds, opponents are decided through a random draw and same goes for match types, for all I know I could be facing Constantine in a grocery store, or someone like War Zone in a normal match, anything can happen.

Gabi: Imagine losing the Elite Championship at Unscripted and winning the World Title in your next match! The ratings would go through the roof!

I smiled and nodded, that would be the best Christmas gift a girl could ever get, but I didn't have my hopes high for it to happen. Though I would settle for any championship, all 4 would look good on my waist.

Callie: Well duh, but I've been having terrible luck lately, I mean I'm on a losing streak, it's disgusting! You know what that's lead to? The fans thinking they're right about me, me losing my championship, me losing followers, and more! These have been a terrible few weeks for me, and right now not even Christmas can make things better.

Gabi frowned.

Gabi: Don't get down sis, all it takes to turn things around is one win, and this is your chance to get a huge win. The element of surprise can work against you, but it can also work in your favor. You could catch a big name off their game, not ready to face someone of your caliber, and you can get a big win. That's what you need to hope for, you need to think on the bright side.

I raised an eyebrow at Gabi.

Callie: Since when do you tell me that?

Gabi shrugged.

Gabi: First time for everything right?

We both laughed, this is why Gabi is the best sister ever, she knows how to cheer me up and she knows exactly what I need sometimes.

Callie: You know what I was thinking about before you decided to start pounding on my door?

Gabi raised an eyebrow back at me, a look of curiosity on her face.

Gabi: What?

Callie: Those bitches we went to high school with, about how they were awful to me and how if it wasn't for you helping me, both with my self esteem and getting that blackmail, how I probably wouldn't have ever become a wrestler.

Gabi thought about it for a minute, thinking back to how she helped me by picking out some new nicer clothes, and convincing me that I was just as good as her, and much better than those girls.

Gabi: Hmm I never thought about it like that but you might be right. That summer really helped you become who you are now huh? But then again that was always deep down inside of you, you just needed help realizing it. But if you wanna give me credit, then you're welcome for your career and your championship.

Gabi winked and laughed at me, I jokingly punched her in the arm while laughing.

Callie: Yeah yeah.

Gabi: Hey I almost forgot to ask, what do you want for Christmas? I still need to buy your present.

I knew how Gabi was, she probably already bought me a bunch of presents and just wanted more ideas, but there was one thing I wanted that money can't buy.

Callie: Well there's the things on my list, but you know what I really want for Christmas?

Gabi: Oh, what's that?

Callie: My Elite Openweight Championship back.

Gabi put her arm around me and nodded.

Gabi: I'm sure you do, but I can't really help you there, and I don't think you can fix the draw to make sure you face Tastic either. So you might have to settle for beating someone else.

I shrugged, it took me a week but I realized sulking would do me no good, I needed to go out there this week ready to face anybody that gets drawn against me no matter who it is. Even if I don't get to beat a big name, anybody can be used to send a message.

Callie: You're right, and I realize that. Tastic might have hurt me at Unscripted, but this week I'm going to hurt someone else as payback. This week I end my losing streak, I get back on the right track, and if lady luck is on my side, win a championship or get the biggest win of my career.

Gabi smiled as I finished talking, I think she was just happy I was done sulking and hiding in my room, but she was smiling none the less.

Callie: But before that, I have one thing to do.

Gabi: Please tell me it's shower, because no offense girl but you haven't in a week and you stink.

I wanted to gasp and protest, but she was right. A side effect of laying in bed for the majority of a week sadly. Thank god my followers will never see me like this.

Callie: Okay two things.

That Night: The Clark's Backyard ​

The sky was dark and the air was cold, like my heart. I sat in the backyard with Gabi, a small fire going in front of us while Sid sat in front of me. I was nearly out of my funk and ready to get back on the winning track, but first some things needed to burn. I picked up a picture off the ground, a picture of me laying in a broken table at Unscripted while Tastic held up the Elite Openweight Championship, my Elite Openweight Championship. I shook my head in disgust at the picture before tossing it into the fire.

Callie: Now that image can burn out of my memory, and my life.

Gabi: It was a terrible picture of you.

Callie: And so many haters kept sending it to me thinking they were funny, putting stupid captions like "too bad you came up just a little short, but I guess you're used to that". Like really? Short jokes AND teasing me about losing my title? Uh no, bye. Get out of my life.

I shook my head again, I could hear Gabi trying to hold back a laugh as she heard me mention the caption. I turned and glared at her.

Callie: IT'S NOT FUNNY!

Gabi: It's a little funny.

Callie: I will punch you!

Gabi regained her composure and stopped laughing.

Gabi: Sorry sorry, back to business.

I picked up a box off the ground, opened it and pulled out my costume from Unscripted. I loved this when I got it, I loved how powerful I felt wearing it, but it had failed me and I it. I looked at the costume, then at the fire, then back at the costume.

Gabi: Wait, you're gonna throw that in the fire?!

Gabi looked surprised, I shrugged.

Callie: I was planning on it, this was my biggest failure and I didn't do the character justice. But I still think it's one of the coolest looking costumes I own so I'm having second thoughts.

Gabi nodded as she took the costume from me, and held it up to inspect it. After looking it over for a minute she handed it back to me.

Gabi: It's nice, you should keep it. So what if you lost your title in it? The way I see it, you put up a hell of a fight, proved how much of a warrior you really are, and only lost because of the element of surprise and Tastic being slightly better that night.

I listened and considered what she said. I hadn't thought about it but she was right, I went through a lot in that match and fought harder than I ever fought before.

Callie: Hmm you might be right, I guess even great warriors lose some wars right?

Gabi nodded.

Gabi: Exactly! Besides, this would be a great costume for going to a comic con in disguise sometime.

I thought for a few more minutes, before putting the costume back in it's box. I decided I liked the costume too much to burn it, and I put too much time and money into it. But I also decided this costume would never again be seen in WZCW.

Gabi: Good decision sis. Hey while we're on the topic of costumes, have you picked out your costume for your next match yet?

I nodded, I had been on a horror movie binge recently while hiding out in my room and it inspired an idea to me. Thankfully I had plenty of supplies to work with and was able to whip something together for a costume, even if it wasn't perfect.

Callie: Let me give you a hint, stay here.

I got up an went inside, heading for my room and digging through some of my things, before pulling out a glove with metal spikes on it. I slipped it on and went back outside, hiding my hand behind my back as I walked over to Gabi.

Gabi: What are you hiding?

I revealed the glove to Gabi, she was always afraid of Freddy Kruger but personally I found him awesome. What's better than a villain who can kill you in your dreams?

Gabi: Freddy Kruger?

I nodded in excitement.

Callie: Yup! Someone's going to have their dream turned into a nightmare this week. I still have to put together a few things for the costume but this much is done.

Gabi: You always did like him way too much.

I shrugged and took the glove off, setting it down on the ground as I sat back down in my chair. I had been through a lot this week but I was ready for whatever chaos the roulette rounds had in store for me. One, two, Callie's coming for you...

 

[Dmbfantomas]

(Vox is sitting in his hotel room alone. He is holding his title in his lap, reflecting on it happily)

Vox: I did it. I actually did it. All the hard work, the dedication, the self-improvement...I did it.

(Vox looks down at his title again, he now sees his reflection in the great trophy)

Vox: I met Bono...

*Knock on the door*

Vox: Who is it?

Man on other side of door: We gotta go in 10 minutes. Finish patting yourself on the back, and then come on. It's show time!

Vox: You've got it.

(Vox looks back at his title again)

Vox: It's in these fleeting moments that you realize the fruits of labor. I could lose this title tonight. I could be placed in some wacky match where I have to take on 10 men and women while blindfolded. Or I could have my aim pointed upwards... All I want is a chance at Constantine. Just one more. He's a nut I've never been able to crack. I don't even want his title, I have my own and it's lovely. I just want an opportunity to start a match with a handshake, give it my absolute all, and end with one.

(Vox looks up at the ceiling, then back down at his title again. He is fixated on it)

Vox: But knowing how things tend to go? It'll be one of those monsters that want to take you from me. The big one that thinks McCarthy is still alive for some reason, the man who engages in underground fights for some reason, despite the fact that we get paid to do them above ground against the best competition, or the ugly punk who we freed this title from.

(Vox stares at the title even deeper)

Vox: I'll never let you go.

*Vox pauses for a moment, almost as though he's looking around to make sure no one can see or hear him*

Vox: ...I'll never let you go. I'll never let you go...I'll never let you turn around, our back on each other...

*LOUD KNOCKING*

Man on Other Side of Door: C'mon, you can't show off your title in a room by yourself. Let's go.

*Vox kisses his title, puts it around his waist, and leaves through the door. He is unsure of his future, but he is DAMN sure that I'll Never Let You Go is stuck in his head.*

 

[CyberPunk]

We had finally reached their destination.

The town looked empty. It was empty. Long abandoned. Dilapidated houses. Decrepit. Decay had set in. We finally spotted the place we had to go to. A place I never wanted to come back to, and yet, here I was.

I saw the burned down house. My burned down house. Charred to the bone. “My demons!” A reminder of that dreadful night I never wanted to relive. And yet, here I was.

I stepped in through the place where once a door existed. The blackened walls reminded me of my horrors. Screams of the past filled my head. I clutched my skull, wanting them to all go away. “But I have to face my demons.” I stepped forward as the floor creaked beneath me.

“This is where it all begun.” Thoughts raced through my head. A broken frame with an absent family picture laid before me. I tried looking for the picture, but it was difficult sifting through all the rubble in front of me.

“So what are we looking for?” I had no clue. All I knew was to exorcise the demons within my head. To let the nightmares go.

“What happened here?” Just vague and fuzzy memories. I didn’t want to think about it. Almost 18 years ago and yet I can’t get the screams out of my head. The screams. The damned screams. I could still hear them. I wanted them out of my sight, out of my head. I wanted to get out of this place as soon as possible.

“So the nightmares that you see all the time, you want all of them to go away? Just like that?” Strange question it was.

“We all want our nightmares to go away. But do they really ever go away? Is it really as simple as that?” Never heard such things from Allison before. I look at her inquisitively. She just turns away.

“You look amused, but that’s the truth. They never go away. They fester, they grow, they keep hold of you, the grip you, but they never go away. There’s only one way.”

I get closer to her. She turned right into me…



***



I sat in the corner hunched. A drop of blood trickled down my cheek. Pain emanated from multiple sores on my body.

“Allison! Allison! Where the fuck are you?”

I didn’t answer. I tried hiding. But my luck wasn’t very good.

“You piece of shit. What do you think of yourself?”

Trapped here for the better part of last 4 years. Just a young a girl, trapped in what they called an orphanage by the day, but a brothel by the night. Young girls like me, trapped in here, never to get out. Too frail to run away. Too weak to fight back. But I had had enough of her.

“You listen to me. You go back into that room, and attend to your client, you understand? Little scum of earth.”

She could dragging me away, but I resisted. She slapped me tight and tried dragging me again, this time by my hair. In desperation, I stretched behind, and grabbed a sharp rock from the broken floor tiles. Without thinking any further, I swung the rock across her head. She winced in pain before falling to the ground. I wasn’t done though. I repeatedly bashed the rock against her head till she moved no more. Her screams attracted couple other people, pimps if you may. The horrified look on their faces made me realize the gravity of my actions.

“Don’t let her get away!” One shouted. “You’re going to pay for this!” Shouted other. I had no time to think. I had to run. I didn’t know where, but I just had to.

So I ran. And ran. And ran!

AND RAN!



***



“You know, Ellie! These nightmares never go away. They chase you, like a pack of dogs. They haunt you. But they never go away.”

Ellie was silent, but well, she had been the silent one for a long time. I held her in a tight embrace.

“You can either run away from them, or…” I looked into Ellie’s eyes. The shock in her wide open eyes, the horror on her face. I whispered in her ears. “Do you feel them slipping away?”

I tried twisting it in a little deeper. She gasped for breath, trying to resist, but failing to do so. Blood streamed down and flowed on to the floor. She tried opening her mouth.

“Shhh… There’s nothing left to say. I know you have a million questions. The only answer you need is warmth of this embrace.”

Slowly, I loosen the grip of my left hand, pulled the knife out of her stomach and lay her gently on the floor.

“Isn’t it all fitting? The place you had to come to exorcise your demon? You finally get to do that. You’ll get to meet your parents soon.”

I turned around to leave as she laid there, left with her final few breaths. However, I couldn’t just leave yet. I needed to let her know what happened. I turned back to her, while she was still trying stop the blood from pouring out of her body. She was failing miserably.

“See, Ellie, you’re a good person, just extremely naïve. I’m a survivor. I survive by any means necessary. I hoped it wouldn’t come to this. But well, as you said, anyone could be Wren. But don’t worry. I’ll be a good Wren.”

Ellie was fading.

“Well, I wish I had more time. But hey, at least you won’t have those stupid nightmares anymore. What do they say in Japan? Sayonara? Sayonara.”



***



A new dawn is upon WZCW. I rolled the dice, and now it is time for WZCW to pay. Everyone’s ready for the Meltdown and Ascension, but is anybody ready for the madness and anarchy that I’ll bring? No one’s safe.

Let chaos ensue.

 

[ABMorales787]

"Who would've thunk it. A drought, 2 years long. Finally dead. A streak, spanning an entire career. One name marking defeat each year. Finally dead. But at the same time. After such a long time clinging, dragging and clawing towards it. The goal has been reached. I'm a Champion again. A conundrum stands before me. What's next?"

It's been a few days since Matt Tastic basically ducked his way to a new Championship. Dodging Callie Clark's desperate attempt to defeat him in the match she feared. Her emotions drove to the danger she was so afraid of. While Matt's veteran savvy let him avoid definite disaster to finally capture the Elite Openweight Championship.

The elegant title, not so elegantly is draped on a turnbuckle as Matt works out in a ring. After a day or two to recover from his injuries, Matt went right back to work. Before Matt had a direct goal in his mind. An objective he could grasp. But now as the famed Roulette Rounds approach, it's total mystery what stands in front of him. Anything can happen. From a simple tag team match to a title defense. Or even a golden opportunity could stand before him and he would be none the wiser. But despite lacking a proper objective, he knows one thing. And recalls the words told about him.

Tyrone Blades: One of the things that held Matt back so many times, probably had to be how he would forget that you had to perform at a certain level at all times if you want to win something. A title. A match. They aren't gifts given to you because you earn them. They're rewards you win at a moment's notice. You could work really really hard for one second. But then the next, you drop your focus and lose. Who do you blame for that? The company? For something that is 100% your own fault? How? But Matt would forget that. Often. He always leaned on his time here as reason. I mean, I get the frustration. I went through it too. I know that feeling of frustration, that you aren't getting what you deserve. But in pro wrestling, you don't get what you deserve. You have to take it. He remembers it now. I see him very focused now on winning his matches and he just happens to mention who he is.

Romero: And what is he?

Tyrone: An all-time great.

The title he holds is a reward he won in a moment's notice. To lose it the same way he earned it would be pointless frustration. A Championship is not something you deserve. It's something you earn and the same is needed to retain it. Regardless of whether he has an opponent named or if it's a total mystery. A bonafide challenger that can dethrone him, or penguins in suits. That's the allure of the Roulette Rounds to many. The unknown opportunity. And the last thing Matt wants to do is lose. Especially when the shows are in his home town.

"For all the years I've been around, it's funny. Despite all the titles I've won, I've actually never felt this scared to lose before. Maybe it's the fact that I'd be defending at home and not know about it. Maybe it's the fact that it's been so long that I don't know how to cope with a title defense now. Or maybe it's because the last time I had this thing, I lost it on the first defense. But who knows....."

Matt cleans up and heads out. Hungry, he makes his way down a nameless street in a nameless city. People going right by him as if he wasn't being seen. Black pants and black hoodie covering, he makes his way to a sandwich shop he see's. Entering it, a bell rings over his head. He takes a seat.

"I'll have an extra large Coke and a Reuben."

Matt's not exactly known for his proper diet. He gets his cup and starts to sip on it but suddenly....

"Matt!"

Matt is startled, recognizing the voice and turning around to see her, waving at him as she takes a seat next to him. Stacey Madison, WZCW reporter and alleged homewrecker surprises Matt in the shop and sits next to him.

“Close your jaw. No interview. I just came here for a quick lunch.”

“No fancy bar to run to with your friends?”

“It's noon. Iced tea and a crossaint, please.”

The clerk nods and serves the tea, then heads to the back. Stacey takes a slow and steady sip from her cup as Matt just sucks on his straw.

“By the way, congrats on FINALLY winning another title. A bit silly but I know how much it meant to you. You must feel pretty happy now. No more grumpy Matt, right?”

Matt stops sipping soda like a maniac and ponders on Stacey's words. Where exactly is the joy of another great accomplishment?

“Matt? Hello! You're going to your home as Elite Champion. Seriously. You're going in a bonafide hero. Your home needs you after the Huracane. How's your family, anyway? I hear there's hardly any electricity still.”

“There isn't. Grandmother died. Aunt died.”

“Oh. I'm so sorry to hear that.”

“It's OK. It was heart attack related due to stress. I'm not looking for sympathy for it or to make it too big. I'd rather celebrate their lives than dwell on their deaths. But that's not what has me down, Stacey. I won the title. I should be happy. I should be electric about finally doing what I wanted. But I'm just wondering what's next. What's in the darkness that lies ahead?”

Stacey looks at Matt with a sad face, reflecting on what he said. But that sadness turns to laughter as she just explodes in giggles, clutching her now aitching ribs.

“Oh jeez, those 'edgelord' jokes I've been hearing aren't that far off, hahahaha!”

Matt just looks at Stacey irritated by the noise she's making.

“Listen, you're a veteran. You know it doesn't stop after you win a title. Maybe its just your veteran insticts telling you to stay on your guard. It's been so long since you were World Champion, maybe you just forgot how its done. Seriously. Lighten up. Enjoy it.”

As Stacey talks, Matt takes a bite out of his sandwich and another sip of his drink. He seems calm as Stacey speaks. Despite her past with other wrestlers, Matt feels trust in her. A fraternal bond grown by two workers who spend so much time close to one another. Like lifetime classmates.

“It's not like I feel bad or something. I'm just wondering. What if I lose it in the Roulette Rounds? Something outside of my control could happen.”

“Or you could win the Mayhem Championship or something. Stop worrying and just do your best like you should. No one knows what they'll get. You don't always get what you ask. It's about what you do with what you get.”

Stacey gets her croissant. Well, not exactly. She gets a ham sandwich instead. She does not seem pleased. She slams her hands on the table. Startling Matt and his cup of soda lifts up in the air. A few drops flying off. He looks at her and Stacey just stands up furious.

“Hey! I asked for a croissant! This is not what I asked for!”

“What happened to doing what you can with what you get?”

“You shut up! I want my croissant!”

“I wouldn't mind a Mayhem title.”

"I said shut up!"

The clerk comes out from the back and has the croissant at hand. Giving it to Stacey.

“Apologies for the confusion, ma'am. Have the sandwich on the house and the croissant too.”

The clerk leaves to the back again as Stacey goes from furious to happy. She sits down as Matt looks at her, bewildered.

“What? Is it the boobs? How the hell did two sandwiches out of it?”

“Lesson number two, Matt. It's not just about doing what you can with what you get. You also have to be assertive, Matt. You should know this. It's how you got your title shot in the first place. Go for the throat! Do what you can. Don't work for the system. Make it work for you.”

Stacey props up her desirable bussom confidently.

“It also helps to have the right look if you know what I mean. Here. Have it. I don't want it. Think of it as a present for your big title win."

Matt grabs the sandwich and looks at it. It's plain ham. He looks at it.

"Gee, thanks. Listen, Stacey. I appreciate the words. It is a fear of the unknown. I feel like there's so many consequences to what can happen. I guess I just got blinded by that instead of focusing on winning. I think about this thing Ty~~"

Matt stops and looks at Stacey who seems interested in what he's saying, but he catches what he was about to say. He rethinks it.

"Ty~Hi. Random person waving. I think about what a guy once said about me. That I'm an all-time great. But I forget that I have to earn my wins. They aren't just rewards I deserve for my time here."

Matt averts his eyes away from Stacey. Awkwardly taking a sip out of his blatantly empty cup.

"Ty. Ty said that. He's not wrong. You're a veteran. You know what you have to do. Do it. Whatever it takes to get ahead."

Stacey's wording scares Matt who's eyes bug out. But he gets the point. She gets up and pats him on the head.

"Well, I'm heading out for a set of interviews. You take care. You do you and things can go your way."

Stacey leaves as Matt looks on.

"Maybe she's right. Maybe instead of worrying about what might come, I should embrace it and do what I can to get ahead. It's how I won my title in the first place. I avoided disaster to get ahead once. I can do it again."

Matt gets up and asks for his tab and looks at it.

"Ah, sir. I think you charged m-Son of a bitch, Stacey slapped her tab on me. Motherfucker!"

She got ahead again.