EXPRO On FX #10

David Zinkus: The following match is our opening contest, and it is a triple threat match! Introducing first...

Static erupts from the PA system briefly before a chant comes over the speakers...

”Sixteen...sixteen...sixteen six..."

The thunderous opening, almost tribal strains of “Six Times Dead (16.6)” boom over the speakers as Piper Fury emerges from the back, a scowl on her face, her eyes narrowed. She has Precious in her right hand, the vicious weapon resting on her shoulder. She gazes out at the crowd and slowly centers her eyes on the ring. As the powerful drum beat turns into the monstrous rhythmic riff, Piper begins making her way down the ramp. She pauses at ringside and points Precious at her opponent in the ring before cracking a slight smile and resting the weapon against the timekeeper's table. She removes her leather vest and drapes it over Precious, sliding into the ring and quickly getting to her feet as she waits for the opening bell.

David Zinkus: From Los Angeles, California...PIPER! FURYYYYYY!

Seth Ericson: I am so excited right now.

Dick Morosi: Please don't start.

Seth Ericson: Look at that Amazon though! My God! I could be Steve Trevor!

Dick Morosi: Sigh.

David Zinkus: And her first opponent...

A piano plays, the lights dimmed down. The piano continues for a bit over thirty seconds. The song then kicks in, drums and guitars booming loudly.

Come out of hiding, show us your face.
Don't be afraid of what they'll say
Just close your eyes it'll all be ok.
The damage they've caused, is it worth it all?

Worth It All...
Worth It All...
Worth It All...

Xavior blasts through the curtains as the lights flash green, the music kicking in harder this time. He looks around for a moment, soaking it all in, taking a knee down on the stage. He slowly cuffs his hands around his mouth and shouts, "SMAAAAAAAAASH!!!!!!!" and extends his arms with an intense glare as he walks down the ramp. The camera gets a shot of him up the ramp in front of hands of fans. Xavior slides on top of the apron and goes to his left, planting his right foot firmly on the top turnbuckle, and his left holding him up on the middle. He extends his arms again giving another shout. The lights continue to flash. He looks around for a moment and walks to the center of the ring. He gets on his knees, glaring around to a mixture of chants and boos. Xavior looks at his adversary. He stands up and walks to the corner, taking his fleece jacket and shirt off.

David Zinkus: From New York, New York, he is your last hope, XAVIOOOOOOOR!

Dick Morosi: Been an up and down few shows for XAVIOR. He got a San Diego Bay title match, but came up short, but his team won in six man action last show, but it didn't help that the opposing team had a man walk out. Tonight I think XAVIOR wants a decisive win to put himself back on the championship path.

Seth Ericson: I hope so. He is our last hope, you know.

Dick Morosi: Mhmm..

David Zinkus: And their opponent...



Dick Morosi: Angry Pete definitely lives up to his name doesn't he Seth?

Seth Ericson: Frankly, this guy scares the piss out of me.

Dick Morosi: He heard you.

Seth Ericson: What are you talking abou-HE IS POINTING AT ME OH MY GOD.

Dick Morosi: He heard you say piss.

Seth Ericson: How?!

Dick Morosi: HE HEARD IT!

Seth Ericson: OH MY GOD OH MY GOD SEND HELP I'M HIDING UNDER THE DESK!

Dick Morosi: Seth? Seth! ...ah...sweet freedom.

TRIPLE THREAT MATCH MATCH
PIPER FURY vs. XAVIOR vs. ANGRY PETE

The bell rings, and Angry Pete immediately barrels out of his corner, coming at Piper Fury who stands her ground and nails him with a hard kick to the shin, causing him to stumble, as XAVIOR runs up behind him and hits a backstabber. Before he can do anything, Fury grabs him from behind, suplexing him down and quickly nailing him with a knee to the side of the head to insure he's down before covering him, but only gaining 1 and a half.

Dick Morosi: Piper Fury is quite the intimidating woman.

...

Dick Morosi: There's...uh, there's usually a sexist response right now. Sorry, fans.

In the ring, Piper is getting ready to continue the assault on XAVIOR when Angry Pete slams a fist into the back of her head, which isn't quite as effective at knocking her down as he expected. As she turns to look at him, fury on her face, Pete can only nod in happiness before they begin to lay into the other with rights and lefts. This exchange continues on for longer than one might expect, as neither is able to get a leg up on the other. However, XAVIOR is the one to end it as he runs and clotheslines the both of them down to the mat. He claps for himself as the crowd boos the breaking up of the brawl.

Dick Morosi: XAVIOR taking advantage again of his opponents' not paying attention to him. Do you think this will change the other two's game plans to make sure to avoid this again?

...

Dick Morosi: Wow, commentating on my own is hard...well, only one thing to do, right Seth?

"Seth Ericson": Golly gee Dick, you sure are right!

The camera cuts to ringside, revealing Dick Morosi pressing Seth's headset to his ear so he can occasionally speak into it's mic with his Seth voice before cutting back to the ring, where XAVIOR hits a splash on the prone Pete, with a pin following, but only a 1. He gets to his feet, finding Piper Fury has gotten to hers as well! She goes to grab him, only for XAVIOR to duck and throw a kick at her from behind, but she catches it! Finding himself in the worst possible place, he goes for an enzuigiri, only for her to duck and smash into him with a lariat!

"Seth Ericson": Gee, this broad sure is tough! But I wonder how tough she'd be in my bed!

Dick Morosi: Seth! That is blatantly sexist and VERY offensive!

"Seth Ericson": Oh gosh, you're right...I'd like to apologize to every woman listening to this, I am a pig but I'm trying to get better thanks to my heavenly best friend in the world, Dick Morosi, who would treat you to a nice dinner, unlike me, who'd treat you to a nice meal of crabs.

Dick Morosi: There might be hope for you yet, Seth!

As Piper prepares to grab XAVIOR, she's suddenly turned around by Angry Pete, who nails her with a right to the face followed by a snap suplex! The fans begin to cheer for the man and he responds clearly, nodding his head in time to their cheers, as he picks up Piper and nails her with an elbow, before whipping her into the corner! The crowd, knowing what's coming, begins to go crazy, Pete nodding along quicker and quicker, hyping himself up!

Dick Morosi: Angry Pete building up a head of steam!

"Seth Ericson": I think you mean pissing up a head of steam!

Dick Morosi: Now Seth, that's not good for TV, you know that. Shame on you.

"Seth Ericson": Oh, you're so right Dick. If only I was as good at everything like YOU are!

Dick Morosi: Don't worry little buddy. If you work hard and model yourself after me, anything is possible!

"Seth Ericson": Golly! You're so right Dick!

Dick Morosi: I sure am.

While this is going on, Angry Pete has hit XAVIOR with a Stinger Splash to the delight of the crowd. He pats his elbow and goes for the Lobotomy, only for XAVIOR to duck, where Piper Fury waits and smashs an elbow into the mouth of Angry Pete! The man goes down, and Piper moves in for the kill, completely focused on him, not realizing that XAVIOR is hitting the ropes with a handspring behind her, and she turns just in time to be hit by the Boomerang of Pain!

"Seth Ericson": Oh man! What an unkind thing to do, setting Piper up to take Pete out but then taking her out!

Dick Morosi: It sure is, buddy. It sure is. And now XAVIOR is taunting everyone, tapping his head like they should have thought of that way to take out both opponents.

"Seth Ericson": The Rogue!!

Dick Morosi: That's an awfully advanced word for you, Seth!

"Seth Ericson": It's all thanks to you and the dictionaries you gave me! Thanks, buddy!

Dick Morosi: It's no problem, little one. No problem at all. But wait, behind XAVIOR!

"Seth Ericson": By jove, it's Angry Pete! He wasn't knocked out by that massive elbow! And XAVIOR is unaware!

Dick Morosi: He's winding up, LOBOTOMY TO XAVIOR! AND THE COVER!

1..

2...

3!!

David Zinkus: HERE IS YOUR WINNER, ANGRY PETE!

"Seth Ericson": Wowie zowie, big win for Angry Pete there! But what a performance from the other two wrestlers! This is what makes EXODUS the best place in the world! I mean, besides my best friend Dick Morosi.

Dick Morosi: Aww, thank you! It was nice having you around, we'll see you later...

Seth Ericson: Okay, he's not gonna be able to pay attention, I'm back.

Dick Morosi: ...hey.

Seth Ericson: Hi? How'd you do on your own?

Dick Morosi: Oh...you know. I managed.

Seth Ericson: Okie dokie then! Congrats to the scary damned hobo, we'll be right back!

WINNER: ANGRY PETE

We see the camera pan around the capacity crowd, showing all the different fans in attendance. The camera stops at the Section B kids until we hear a ruckus coming from another section of the crowd. The camera then pans around the entire arena looking for where the ruckus is coming from until we see the man who hacked into the EXODUS feed on the previous show, Brandon Banks, walking down a flight of stairs heading toward the front row. He has a ticket in his hand as he waves it in front of securities face just as he passes them by, stopping directly near the Section B section of the arena. Banks exchanges some words with Section B before zeroing on one member in particular, grabbing his cup of beer and drinking it down. He then pulls away a megaphone from one of the Section B members and goes back to his steady pace toward the front row, sitting down in his seat.

Brandon Banks (via Megaphone): Heeeeeyyyyyy!

The crowd boos as Banks voice echos through the megaphone. Banks lowers the megaphone and smirks, kicking his feet onto the protective barricade  in front of him.

Brandon Banks (via Megaphone): I was a little lazy this week, guys. The whole hacking into your feed takes too much time, but you already know I couldn't miss this jam packed EXODUS Pro show!

You could hear the sarcasm in Banks' voice as another member of security comes up to him, urging him to hand over the megaphone but Banks shakes his head.

Brandon Banks (via Megaphone): Look at that... EXODUS security over here tellin' me I can't have this here megaphone. Come on, guy. I'm here as a fan! I'm here as a fan and a friend of Zero McHannon, Zack Lifer, and Heather Halliwell! I'm here to support my homies, bruh!

The member of security shakes his head as he walks closer towards Banks until Banks stands up and places the megaphone on his seat, mouthing something in securities direction. Once Banks' words were finished, the member of security turns around and makes his way back up the aisle as Banks lifts the megaphone and takes his seat.

Brandon Banks (via Megaphone): Now, as I was saying before I was so rudely interrupted... I got lazy this week. Instead of having a friend of mine hack into your feed, I decided that I'd do it the easy way this week and just buy a ticket to watch the ancient bones of Jon Collins and Lassie dog come out to the middle of that ring and prove to themselves that they still got it. See, tonight? I'm only here as a fan. I'm not here to cause trouble or make a scene, though, I'm probably making one right now, but I promise... After this? You won't hear from me unless I'm provoked...

Banks lowers the megaphone and stares into the camera positioned in front of him with a grim expression on his features.

Brandon Banks (via Megaphone): .... Provoke me...

With that, Banks nestles the megaphone in between his legs and crosses his arms, getting prepared to watch the rest of the show as we go to commercial.

The camera cuts backstage as Zero McHannon enters the hallway. He passes down a corridor to his dressing room, and it’s there where he comes to find that he had someone waiting there for him. Seemingly lost in thought, the infamous madman known simply as Christum Furor throws a quick glance at the World Champion, then takes a moment to process the sight before looking back up at him. He scoffs at his countenance, Gunner rising up from the chair he’s sat himself in and beginning to walk up to his hated adversary.

Christum Furor: You should cherish these moments McHannon - these moments where you’re walking back and forth with THAT.

Gunner points at the EXODUS World Championship which sits around McHannon’s waist. The detestable villain looks him over once more with a smirk, a laugh rising in him once more as he thinks about the prospect of finally capturing the aforementioned championship.

Christum Furor: Because in two weeks, you’ll be taking the walk of shame as a black cloud looms over your head which will hang low with dejection. You’re like King Charles VI of France, except you really are made of glass, and the closer I get, the more likely you are to crack. In two weeks, everything you’ve built and everything you stand for will shatter to bits and pieces. And those shards that make up your entire existence will become inconsequential, merely a footnote and a distant memory that will be forgotten when I deliver this company into the NEW AGE!

McHannon simply smiles and shakes his head, Gunner merely looking on confusedly at how his threats and opinions were deflected so easily off of the champion’s exterior.

Zero McHannon: You know what, Gunner? You talk a big game, kind of like I use to before I won this strap. You might have beat Chris Strike, but don’t act like you’ve beaten the World Champ already. You lost to Fiona when it counted, road along Daisuke’s success with the Legion… Along with myself. And now you got your own group of minions with Lifer and Kira. Two people that are certainly trying to outshine you… Don’t you agree?

Gunner’s lips tremble momentarily, as he clenches his fists while his cold-blooded eyes divert to the floor. An incredible concoction of rage and embarrassment bubbles within the confines of his body, threatening to come to the surface and devour all his rationality.

Christum Furor: What happened with Fiona was never about me winning the World Title. Just about proving a point - that even the Strong Style Seraph was corruptible. And I succeeded. This time however, my focus is solely on taking that which you are unfit to have. That World Championship belongs to me, and with it I’ll have the power, the leverage, and the tools to finally destroy this company and build it in the image I see fit. And there’s nothing you can do to stop it. Not you, not Strike, not Lenton - not one of you. I’m the GOD of EXODUS, and you are merely a clown masquerading as a king - but rest assured I will liberate you from the albatross of having to wear the crown when I take it from you.

Magnus steps forward once more, closing the space between them, yet McHannon’s composure is unfaltering, almost as if he’s inviting his nemesis in.

Zero McHannon: Magnus, I earned this title. I might not have earned the shot, but I brought every tear I had that night to win this belt. I changed who I was, and put my heart into this. You can NEVER take that away from me. You want to know why you’re not going to be a World Champion? You can’t beat the people who love this company and give it everything they have. You don’t have the heart. More importantly, you’re the clown who got put down by me two weeks ago, right? Keep that in the back of your mind, Magnus… because we know I can do it again.

Magnus sneers and shakes his head, before removing a pack of cigarettes from his pocket and attempts to light one up, only to be interrupted. Zero reaches down and grabs his crotch before pointing towards Magnus.

Zero McHannon: Smoke on this, asshole…

Gunner struggles to subdue his urge to strike the confident champion right in the mouth. He withdraws the cigarette from between his teeth which now work over the tender flesh of his lower lip as his mind races.

Zero McHannon: Frankly, I’ve had enough of this from you. You talk well, but what do you really have to show for it? NOTHING you say will put fear in me, it means nothing. You’re talking to the wrong person. You don’t scare me. Gods and Monsters doesn’t scare me. Nothing does… No matter how hard you and your buddies want to bring me down, it’s not going to happen on my watch. There is nothing you can do that I haven’t already been through… that’s the one advantage I have on you, Magnus. I have to live up to being the World Champion, show everyone just why I’m in these shoes, and a title to defend… You’re only a stepping stone to ALL of that. I beat you two weeks ago… Tonight will be the same, and two weeks after that? Yes, I’ll do it again. It’s time to see what YOU got, Magnus. Steve did it, but did you?

Magnus has finally had enough, as he stands face to face with the EXODUS World Champion. He clenches his fist, and McHannon does the same. Christum Furor is fuming and chomping at the bit, almost looking like he’ll explode due to the level of animosity he has for the man staring him down.

Zero McHannon: You won’t do it.. because you already know what will happen. You’ll get knocked down again, because you can’t beat me. I’ll never be afraid of you, like some of the others. If you’re going to clench your fist, you better be ready to use it.

Enraged and one upped in the verbal exchange, Magnus denies Zero the satisfaction of a physical confrontation, and simply nods before backing away. Neither man breaks eye contact with the other, as McHannon stands firm and holds his ground like any king would when his kingdom is being threatened. With that, we cut back to Dick & Seth.

Dick Morosi: Things are starting to get real ugly with Zero McHannon and Magnus Gunner.

Seth Ericson: Ugly ain't even the half of it.

Dick Morosi: Those two will square off in the main event tonight, but it's a debut we have going on!

Seth Ericson: YES! I CANNOT WAIT!

Dick Morosi: It's the Series Premiere of The Chapel Show! They're facing Braxton Bennett and Chris Marks...NEXT!

TAG TEAM MATCH
THE CHAPEL SHOW vs. CHRIS MARKS & BRAXTON BENNETT

Braxton Bennett and Chris Marks are already in the ring, Marks looking slightly off-put by the full leather daddy ensemble of his partner.

David Zinkus: And their opponents...

As the spotlights flash across the stage and the video screens come to life, “Cynics and Critics” by Icon For Hire hits the PA system.


As the music continues blaring, Nate and Lexy Chapel walk out on to the stage, each carrying with them a camera-phone. They each stage on different sides of the stage at first, looking out over the fans and both filming the fans, before Nate turns and Lexy runs at him, leaping in to his arms and kissing him passionately on the stage.

David Zinkus: Weighing in at a combined 300lbs...LEXY AND NATHAN CHAPEL, THE CHAPEL SHOW!


They both make their way to the ring as the music continues to play, filming the fans as they walk down to the ring and posing on the entrance ramp together. As the chorus of the song begins, both slide in to the ring and climb up on to opposite corners, filming the fans again with their phones before turning and filming each other.

“Oh this is all we know
Oh tragic and miserable
We’re not cynics; we just don’t believe a word you say
We’re not critics, we just hate it all anyway
Oh this is all we’ve got
Oh we do what we’ve been taught
We’re not cynics; we just don’t believe a word you say
We’re not critics, we just hate it all anyway”

They both jump down from their corners and walk to the middle of the ring where Nate grabs Lexy and spins her around before kissing her again. The husband and wife duo then walk to their corresponding corner and discuss which of them will start as they wait for the bell.

Dick Morosi: Debut of the Chapel Show, who are definitely different in their approach to things.

Seth Ericson: I still don't get all this social media stuff. Why would I twitter?

Dick Morosi: Someone on twitter got to show Lexy Chapel their penis.

Seth Ericson: ...making one tonight.

Dick Morosi: ...I regret telling you that. So badly.

The bell rings as we start off with Nathan Chapel and Braxton Bennett. Bennett, clearly feeling good about the rather large size difference between himself and Nathan, slaps the smaller man in the face, hard as he can.

Seth Ericson: WELP.

Dick Morosi: Yeah, we know where this is going...someone call Kuller, he's gonna have some body parts.

Indeed, instead of having any kind of reaction to the slap, Nathan Chapel just glares at Bennett, who takes a step back in shock. Nathan responds by leaping up, grabbing the man by the head while doing so, and driving his knee into his face. The crowd goes wild as the big man goes down, Nathan going with him to immediately lock in an armbar and start to wrench the biker's arm from his socket. Despite the unimaginable pain of his arm being ripped apart, the guy who rides bikes sometimes manages to grab the rope while flailing in agony, and the referee calls for the release.

Nathan releases the hold, but once Bennett starts to attempt to get back up, he's back on him, hooking the arms and surprisingly throwing the bigger man with a Dragon Suplex! The crowd goes wild at this.

Dick Morosi: Maybe we should just ban the slap.

Seth Ericson: They'd still do it though.

Dick Morosi: Ah, hell...you're probably right.

Nathan follows up by repeatedly smashing his knee into the chest of the bikey guy for fun. Lexy applauds this quite hard, while Chris Marks is banging his head on the turnbuckle. Finally, he rolls off of Bennett and moves to his corner, tagging his wife in. Bennett manages to crawl along to his corner, slapping in Marks.

Seth Ericson: And now the pain will stop, Dick. We've had the slap, and no one is dumb enough to do it again toni-

Dick Morosi: Chris Marks has just slapped Lexy Chapel.

Seth Ericson: Oh my God is he even real.

Dick Morosi: Now...we don't know much about Lexy, she could handle this completely different-OH JESUS CHRIST.

Seth Ericson: I think her foot went so far into his crotch it touched his spleen. I'm feeling that one from here...god...

Dick Morosi: Seth has fallen out of his chair in pain, that's how bad that kick was. Even the referee felt it, and I think that's why he didn't call for the bell...he doesn't want one.

Lexy follows up her fufilling the wish of every single EXODUS roster member by leaping, hitting Marks with a reverse jawbreaker. She hops up and hits the ropes, nailing Marks with a Lionsault before hitting the ropes, nailing a just trying to stand Marks with a dropkick to his head.

Dick Morosi: You okay, Seth?

Seth Ericson: My future children...I think she killed them...

Dick Morosi: In that case, I'm going to shake her hand after this.

Nathan enters the ring at his wife's signal, grabbing Marks up and hitting him with the Ratings Winner, which Lexy follows up by hitting the Social Distortion to complete the Social Media Blackout. She covers, and Bennett starts to enter the ring, only to get accidentally nailed in the crotch by a superkick from Nathan. Poor aim, really.

1...

2...

3!

David Zinkus: Here are your winners, THE CHAPEL SHOW!

WINNERS: THE CHAPEL SHOW

Dick Morosi: Well. That was certainly a big debut for the Chapel Show.

Seth Ericson: I'm so scared of that girl...

Dick Morosi: Bless her. Bless her for every day she lives. We'll be right back.

We cut the normal office of Nicholas Gray, where we find the one time assistant of Gray, Pond standing in front of her former boss' desk, arms crossed. Gray sits behind the desk with a grin on his face.

Pond: What do you want?

Nicholas Gray: I just wanted to have some words about your employment.

Pond: Ex-employment. You got my quitting papers.

Nicholas Gray: Oh, I sure did. Couldn't miss them, since they were addressed to "Sir Shitlord the Fifth." Which I commend, not many people remember I'm the fifth one.

Pond just shakes her head.

Pond: Not here for giggles. Just say what you need to.

Nicholas Gray: Well, I just needed to say that while I appreciate your quitting...you can't.

Pond: Oh, no, no, I can. And I did. So save any apologies or anything...I don't want them. I just want to have to never hear my name and "Nicholas Gray's assistant" in the same sentence.

Nicholas Gray: Well...Pond's not your name.

Pond: ....

Nicholas Gray: ...right! Well, no, I'm not trying to apologize, I'm trying to tell you you CAN'T quit.

Pond: ...what? Yes I can. I did! You can't tell me I'm not free!

Nicholas Gray: Yeah...you remember how I got you to take this job?

Pond: Vividly. You said you could get me credits for school if I took the job.

Nicholas Gray: Yep! Well...turns out, if you make a college enough money, they'll make anyone a Professor!

There is only silence in the room, as Pond stares at Gray, eye twitching.

Pond: What.

Nicholas Gray: Yeah! Don't you have your class schedule?

She quickly rummages through her bag, pulling a sheet of paper out.

Pond: Yeah, and you're not on it except...for....

Nicholas Gray: Hmmmmmmmmm?

Pond: I had one teacher that doesn't have a time attached...Professor G. No. No no no no NONONONONONO!

Nicholas Gray: I didn't even set that up. But, you know...I DO rep the west coast...homie.

Pond: OhmygodNO! NO NO NO!

Nicholas Gray: So, yeah...if you quit...you're not gonna be getting out of college anytime soon.

More silence. Then, there is a sound. A scream. The loudest, angriest, ballshriveling shriek imaginable. And then Pond stomps off, still screaming. Gray waves.

Nicholas Gray: See ya tomorrow bright and early to get some work done!

After the screams depart, a rather frazzled Darrin Stearns enters the room. He looks back at the door and then back to Gray.

Darrin Stearns: Was that...necessary?

Nicholas Gray: Yep. Because it's been a month since she quit, and I DON'T KNOW HOW TO WORK MY SCHEDULE I'VE MISSED 15 MEETINGS!

Darrin Stearns: Ah.

He pauses for a moment, a thoughtful look on his face before a grin appears on his face.

Darrin Stearns: Awww, you need her help.

There is silence for a moment.

Nicholas Gray: I have a gun, Darrin.

Darrin Stearns: Noted.

And at that, we fade to commercial.

Backstage, Rufus Frost is talking the ear off of Jonathan Collins. Off to the side is his already known charge, the overly-jacked Atlas, just flexing in various poses.

Rufus Frost: Listen, Jon; I know Atlas isn't clean...yet! I've got him on a plan, he'll be ready soon!

Jonathan Collins: This really isn't a good time, Rufus. I've got this main event later, and we're launching the Development ca-

Rufus Frost: Yes! The development camp! That's the perfect place for my newest charge...

In from the left comes a man with slicked back hair, a little bit of stubble, and dressed in a tailored suit. He has a smug look on his face, and glances at Atlas...who flexes in response. Jon takes one look at the man who has entered and involuntarily gags.

Jonathan Collins: How dare you bring that beanpole in here, Ruf-

Rufus Frost: WOAH WOAH WOAH, Jon! This isn't that guy! This is an INNOVATOR of wrestling! This...is Daniel Robbs!

Robbs, a 6'7” man that can't somehow weigh more than 220 pounds soaking wet, looks Jon up and down before beginning to speak.

Daniel Robbs: Listen up, all you San Diego Sweatho-

He's cut off by the sudden appearance, from the right, of META JOHNSON. Meta looks back and forth from Atlas, to Rufus, to Daniel. Then he looks at Jon.

Meta Johnson: Are you serious? Why haven't you called me?

Jonathan Collins: I've really been busy, Meta! I thought you had a sixth sense for these things!

Meta Johnson: ...Him.

He points at Rufus.

Meta Johnson: This one creates a blind spot in my mind. He does things, I don't know about them until I see them. You some kind of wizard, Frost?

Rufus Frost: Is that the way to be talking to a guy in a three-thousand dollar suit, a guy in a five-hundred dollar suit that has fifteen-hundred in tailoring, and a man in a...uh...twenty-five dollar “mankini”? COME ON!

Meta Johnson: THAT'S IT! ALL THREE OF YOU ARE GONE!

*BOOM!*

*BOOM*

*BOOM!*

When the smoke clears, all that's left is a tailored-tall suit, a pair of dress shoes, and Atlas' “mankini.” Jon looks at Meta.

Jonathan Collins: ...Is he somewhere...naked?

Meta shakes his head.

Meta Johnson: He's just gone, Jon. Just...gone. I can't say the same for the other two.

Jonathan Collins: We'll just have to wait and see, I guess. Thanks for the help, Meta.

Meta Johnson: Always. Gotta go; someone's talking about “destrucity.”

He storms off, and Jon goes back to preparing for the main event. Meanwhile, we go back to Dick and Seth.

Dick Morosi: Seems like Meta Johnson just has it out for Rufus Frost.

Seth Ericson: Are you even sure that's Rufus? Jesus, I barely recognize him.

Dick Morosi: Things just keep getting stranger here in EXODUS. All that, and now we've got an Honor Cup match up here, as Blake Jones meets Cthulu Jones...NEXT!

HONOR CUP MATCH (Block B)
BLAKE JONES vs. CTHULU JONES

The arena plunges into darkness. A second later, Apocalypse Now starts playing over the PA system. The lights stay out as the intro rings out throughout the arena:

This is the end of the world...

You either wake up, or you don't...

Apocalypse Now!

As the words Apocalypse Now are whispered over the PA, the lights slowly come back on, and there's smoke around the entranceway, with bright white light shining through it. Silhouetted in the centre stands a man, seemingly in a Trenchcoat and Fedora, hand rolled cigarette hanging from his lips. He steps forward, and illuminated by the arena lights the audience can see his painted face, partially shielded by both the brim of his hat and the high collar of his coat. Taking one last, long drag from his cigarette, he throws it to the floor and stubs it out underfoot.

David Zinkus: Ladies and gentlemen, this match is in Block B of the Honor Cup Tournament, scheduled for one fall with a fifteen minute time limit! Introducing first, from R'yleh, weighing in at 200 pounds, CTHULHU JONES!

He steps toward the ring, nodding to the crowd as he moves forward. As he reaches the ring, he dives forward, sliding in under the bottom rope. In the ring, he looks about, seemingly basking in the roar of the crowd. Walking to his corner, he removes his coat and fedora, revealing painted face and his shirt and slacks beneath. He shakes hands with both the referee and announcer, before heading back to his corner to wait, rolling his sleeves up as he does.

Dick Morosi: Tonight's all about pride for Cthulhu Jones; he's 0-2 in the Honor Cup Tournament, but he can play the spoiler here tonight!

Seth Ericson: Don't forget that he took both Seymour Almasy and Jimmy Riley to the limit in their matches! Blake Jones has his work cut out for him here tonight.

WATCH ME LIGHT UP THE SKY!

"Light Up the Sky" by Thousand Foot Krutch starts to play and the crowd erupts as suddenly at the top of the darkened stage in a light up jacket, the Blue Lantern logo lit across the back, all as he stands with his back to the crowd.

Hands held high sweat dripping off me
Light it softly, got these fakers trying to stop me
This ain't a hobby it's a way of life
Just like Holyfield and Tyson, gloves on fight night
Boom here comes the hurricane monsoon
Switched up, came to redecorate the room
My ears are ringing from hearing the same sound
So what now all of the walls just came down
I blaze a trail like the rays from taillights
Sound shaking the ground like earthquakes hail might
Someday I'll die but not tonight
Excuse me while I light up the sky!

David Zinkus: His opponent, hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and weighing in at 188 pounds! This is “THE PHILLY YOUNG GUN,” BLAKE JONES!

The lights remain dim as Blake starts to walk down, slapping hands with the fans as he keeps the huge grin on his face, proving that he still adores the EXODUS faithful. Tonight, his jacket signifies his status as a Young Gun and the hero of War Games, sliding into the ring as the crowd erupts!

But he's met immediately with a running dropkick by Cthulhu! The private eye sends Blake tumbling back out of the ring as D'Artis Johnson calls for the bell and the start of this Honor Cup match! Cthulhu is back up on his feet and begins clapping, getting the crowd into the mood before he takes off for the opposite set of ropes, bounces back and LEAPS out of the ring with a tope suicida! Blake shakes off the surprise attack as both men rise to their feet, and hits a vicious leg kick on Cthulhu as soon as both are up!

Dick Morosi: Blake Jones using his soccer background here to inflict damage with those kicks, as he rolls Cthulhu back into the ring!

Blake follows his opponent in, and then charges him with a running hurricanrana...that Cthulhu rolls through! The Harbinger of the Apocalypse is right back up and catches Blake with a dropsault! Cthulhu again rises and this time drops a quick leg on Blake before going for an early cover!

ONE...

TWO-Kickout!

Seth Ericson: Cthulhu Jones isn't messing around, Dick! He wants to get that win he's been looking for in this tournament!

Dick Morosi: It'll take a lot more than a leg drop to pin Blake Jones, though.

Cthulhu pulls Blake up, then drops him again with a gutwrench suplex! He's the first up, and backs into the near corner, motioning for Blake to rise, as he slowly does just that.

Dick Morosi: Cthulhu Jones setting Blake up here, could be looking for the Gumshoe...

That's exactly what Cthulhu attempts, even stepping onto Blake's knee, but The Philly Young Gun sways just in time to avoid the oncoming boot! He grabs Cthulhu's leg (the one planted on his own knee) and pushes Cthulhu into a roll! When the Private Eye finishes his roll and turns around, he's met with a SPRINTING Blake Jones who nails his trademark single leg dropkick! After a second, Blake kips up as the crowd roars!

Seth Ericson: He could be looking to end this!

Blake points to the turnbuckle, and after moving Cthulhu into position, he heads up top! Balancing himself, Blake launches with The Equalizer, but as he's coming down, Cthulhu rolls out of the way!

Dick Morosi: HE MIS-WAIT, NO HE DIDN'T!

Instead of crashing to the mat, Blake lands on his feet, squatting down to absorb the impact...and jumping right back up to catch the risen Harbinger of the Apocalypse with The Jones Equation! Knees straight to the face, the cthuluchador falls back, and Blake scrambles on top for the pin!

ONE...

TWO...

THREE!

Blake quickly rises to his knees, pumping his fists as “Light Up The Sky” hits and David Zinkus chimes in...

David Zinkus: Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of this match...BLAKE JONES!!

WINNER: BLAKE JONES

Dick Morosi: Blake Jones has done his part, Seth! Two and one in Block B, and with a Seymour Almasy win later tonight, he'd be alive with a three-way tie!

Seth Ericson: Don't you count out Jimmy Riley! He beat both of these guys, and you KNOW he'll take the fight to Almasy!

Dick Morosi: We'll just have to wait and see! Meanwhile, let's head backstage!

The camera flickers to the backstage area, Jaime is stretching against the wall. He’s focused on the match at hand against The Big L. He’s wearing his white pants without his kick pads on at the moment.

Jaime Alejandro: You wanted to speak with me, Zack?

Just as he utters the words, Zack Lifer, dressed in his usual open black sweatshirt with a smiley face logo on the chest along with some simple blue jeans, appears on the scene, almost ashamed to be asking for help as he speaks.

Zack Lifer: Yeah... Fiona was right. I'm turning into exactly what I hate, aren't I? Into a villain?

Jaime Alejandro: She is, Zack… But one man’s villain is another man’s hero. Although you’re becoming no man’s hero. I oppose some of the same ideals you do, but I know how to fight those ideals. It’s why I’m training those kids. I saw first hand what people call a “hero.” I have two students that are barely able to move, thanks to that psychopath. But, I always wear the gray hat. Just for people like that.

Lifer nods understandingly.

Zack Lifer: How do you fight those ideals then? How do you just gain a following like Zero did without changing who you are? I don’t wanna be like Lasie, I don’t wanna be like Jon, I just…

I want to know I’m doing the right thing. As me.

Jaime nods to him and sits down on the bench.

Jaime Alejandro: Nobody ever knows if they’re doing the right thing, Zack. And the best way to fight those ideals. Look at yourself in the mirror. Do you stand for the ideals of Christum Furor or Ryuji Kamigawa? Zepelli sure as hell doesn’t.

He let out a groan as he put his head in his hands, trying to think about what happened last time at ExPro #9, how Gunner ordered him to bow down.

Zack Lifer: No, I… No, I don’t. I don’t think I ever did.

Jaime offers him a seat, looking at the younger wrestler. With that, Lifer obliges and takes a seat, trying to focus for once on what Jaime was telling him, a rare moment.

Jaime Alejandro: Maybe it’s not Zack Lifer that needs to change. It’s Nick Kramer himself. You don’t believe in what your faction believes in. Zack Lifer is the man who can do what Nick Kramer can’t. Nick isn’t going to go out and just bow to Gunner. He’s a father. He’s a husband. I fight the ideals I do because I have two kids that look up to me, Nick. What would they do if they saw their father bowing to a man like Gunner? Alanna’s not lost faith in you. She shouldn’t ever lose faith in her father. Her hero.

He nodded, not one bit annoyed about someone besides his closest friends and family calling him Nick because Jaime had a good point. Zack tried to smile before it washed away again.

Zack Lifer: Is it really that easy? I just… leave Gods & Monsters and be myself? Fight for my ideals and not some lame, ‘godly’ itinerary?

Jaime nodded at him.

Jaime Alejandro: It won’t be easy. They’ll come after you. They’ll want vengeance. But you control your own destiny. You control your path. Then, you’ll see what people see in me. In Lenton. We know the odds are against us. But every day, we defy them. I’m supposed to be dead, kid. I had a bullet go through my leg. I almost bled to death. But, I’m here. You had your body ripped to shreds, but you’re still here. Zack Lifer doesn’t need Gods and Monsters. They need him. And they know it. Without followers, Gunner has no power. I fear the storm is coming, though. And you know it will.

Zack nodded, agreeing with his words somberly, a slight smile back on his face as he tucked his hands inside his sweatshirt towards the camera.

Zack Lifer: Hey, Jaime? You’re right. You’re absolutely right. I don’t have to change and become a Lasie or a Zero to fight for what I believe in, to fight for what my fans, the Lifer Addicts believe in. I just have to stop fighting for the wrong causes. LEGION, White Nights, Gods and Monsters… It makes sense now. It makes sense that none of those groups I aligned myself were making sense at all…

He took a deep breath, nodding as he got to his feet again.

Zack Lifer: For now on, I’m gonna fight for myself and not some lunatic on a power trip. I… I can’t promise much, but I can promise I’ll try my best.

Jaime Alejandro: You fight for what’s right. It’s not easy, Zack. It’s never easy. And people do change. But they don’t change themselves. They change what they believe in. I’m still the Mexican kid from San Antonio when I hit the ring. I’m still hoping everyday that my late father and my late trainer guide me from wherever they may be. All I know, until the day my life ends, I will fight the monsters of the world. Be it in the ring, as a teacher, or in the office. No matter where I am, I won’t change me. I just change my fight. And so you know, forgiveness is a hard thing… but I’m getting there.

He offers his hand to Zack to which Lifer does the same, shaking it up and down before pulling him off the bench and jokingly patting him on the back.

Zack Lifer: You’re a good friend, Jaime. You really are.

Jaime smiles at Zack and laughs for a moment.

Jaime Alejandro: I try to be. I don’t listen to everyone’s words all the time. If I judged every book by the cover, I would miss out.

Zack Lifer: So I guess all that’s left to do is bring a god back to Earth, right? On my own. Not for myself, but for them. I may never be perfect, actually, I know I won’t ever be. I may not be the image this company wants at the top of the roster, but I’m me and that’s all that matters.

Jaime Alejandro: You’re the man you need to be, Zack. You always were. And you won’t be alone when the gods need to fall. Others will be beside you. When they see the true Zack Lifer, they will be beside you…

Jaime pats Lifer on the back and walks towards the entrance way.

Jaime Alejandro: Just know, not all gods are immortal. And not all immortals are Gods. Words of a great man… Nelson Mandela.

Zack can’t help but let out a slightly childish laugh.

Zack Lifer: It’s good advice. It just sucks that I gotta be on the wrong side tonight. Wish me luck though. I think Jon’ll see I was telling the truth soon.

Jaime gives him a wave as he heads off.

Jaime Alejandro: He’ll see through actions. You may have to do your job now, but after your obligation tonight, I’ll be watching, Zack. And waiting.

Zack Lifer: And so will all the Lifer Addicts. I’ll make ‘em proud.

Lifer nods before giving him a juvenile wave back before turning in the other direction, heading towards his locker room to get ready for the main event and we go to commercial.

We come back from commercial to the normal office of Nicholas Gray, who sits behind his desk, fiddling with his phone. He is happy, content.

And then Darrin Stearns steps through the door to ruin that.

Darrin Stearns: Hey, Nick...

Nicholas Gray: Mmm? Busy, watching me watch TV.

Darrin Stearns: I, uh...what?

Nicholas Gray: I'm watching my security camera watch me watching the security camera.

Darrin Stearns: ...why?

Nicholas Gray: Because it confuses anyone who asks me what I'm doing while I'm trying to play Angry Birds.

Darrin Stearns: ...Moving on.

Nicholas Gray: Mhmm!

Darrin Stearns: Your, uh...your brother's here.

The phone drops, as Gray looks up at Darrin.

Nicholas Gray: No he's not.

Darrin Stearns: Well...yeah...he is. He's coming now.

Nicholas Gray: No he isn't.

Darrin Stearns: ...it's a little late for that, man.

Nicholas Gray: Call security. Call the cops! CALL THE FBI! CALL THE NATIONAL GUARD! CALL AL-QUEADA! CALL SOMEONE, HE WILL NOT COME INTO THIS ROO-

And at that, the door swings open with mighty force, slamming into Darrin's head, sending his unconscious body slumping against the wall as a heavyset Japanese man carrying a large bottle of gin steps into the room, holding his arms out as if he really expects a hug.

Minoru Asano: NIIIIIIIIIIIIICK!

Nicholas Gray: *BLEEP*

Minoru Asano: I know, right?! I CAN'T BELIEVE I'M HERE EITHER! THIS IS AWESOME!

Nicholas Gray: ...*BLEEP *BLEEP*

Minoru Asano: That's what I said, man. It's an amazing place, San Diego. SO MANY BARS!

Nicholas Gray: I would imagine so...why are you here.

Minoru Asano: Well I just wanted to say hi to the brother of mine what gave me a job!

Nicholas Gray: 1, I'm not your god damned brother. 2, Yes. I gave you a job. At (R)Evolution.

Minoru Asano: I KNOW! THANK YOU SO MUCH, BRO! I'M GONNA LOVE COMMENTATING!

Nicholas Gray: ...yes. I sent you to (R)Evolution so you wouldn't have to come by these shows.

Minoru Asano: Well why wouldn't I, I'm already making so many new friends, like Darrin!

He turns and looks at the unconscious man with a frown.

Minoru Asano: Man, he needs to hold his liquor better doesn't he?

Nicholas Gray: You did that. With a door.

Minoru Asano: Hahaha! Man, you're always such a kidder!

Nicholas Gray: .....*BLEEP*

Minoru Asano: Besides my friends, I might as well get use to the place so I'm familiar with it once I start wrestling for ya!

Nicholas Gray: You're not *BLEEP*ing wrestling for EXODUS.

Minoru Asano: Sure I am! Yumie said it was all good, bro!

The mention of his wife's name causes Gray's eye to twitch, as he reaches down and tugs at one of his desk drawers. The drawer does not open.

Nicholas Gray: *BLEEP* *BLEEP* god damned *BLEEP*

Gray begins to search his coat, desperate to find whatever it is he's looking for. Minoru just smiles on, unaware.

Minoru Asano: But hey, it's been great talking to you, bro, but I gotta go. Me and Harvey are hitting the bars early!

He waves happily and leaves the room, leaving Gray alone with the unconscious Darrin. He finally picks his phone back up and presses the screen a few times to make a call, bringing it to his ear.

Nicholas Gray: ...Pond. Where's my key?

He waits for the response.

Nicholas Gray: ...the one to the drawer I keep my gun in.

He waits again for the response, the response only causing him to scowl.

Nicholas Gray: Of. Course.

Before he can say anything else, the other end hangs up. Gray sits there for a moment, still holding the phone to his ear. Finally, he removes it from his ear, staring at it. Finally, annoyed enough, he tosses it at Darrin's head, where it bounces off on impact, making the man slump to his side. Gray can only think of one appropriate response to it all.

Nicholas Gray: *BLEEP*

We fade back to ringside, and a laughing Dick and Seth.

Dick Morosi: Minoru Asano will be bringing his brand of commentary and humor to (R)Evolution Wrestling, debuting in a few weeks!

Seth Ericson: Poor Darrin Stearns for having to deal with that.

Dick Morosi: If people think that's a struggle, this next match has a huge struggle! It's going to determine the fate of Block C in the Honor Cup! Kira T. Zeppeli has clinched a berth in the semis, but he's either going alone or going with Fiona Rourke and Savannah Taylor! Win and she's in for the Las Vegas Siren, and this match is next!

HONOR CUP MATCH (Block C)
KIRA T. ZEPPELI vs. SAVANNAH TAYLOR

The lights dim at the sound of what seems to be machinery or something similar chugging away with more electronic distortions coming through, seemingly destroying the reception on the EXOScreen before the it seems to give way to music and a hijacked reception of just a cold, emotionless face. The haunting same notes on a piano seem to repeat until drums and the remainder of the music kicks in for Akira Yamaoka's "Rain of Brass Petals (Three Voices Edit)" starts. The lights flash in unison with the piano as they pulse, when it just suddenly seems that in between pulses someone finally has the light reflect against them.

David Zinkus: Coming down the aisle...Kira T. Zeppeli!

A brief pause after vocals with more static and the haunting repetition of the piano chord before the drums pick back up and he begins to move again.



Reaching the ringside area, he examines the side of the ring facing the entrance before slowly lifting himself up and sitting on it. For a moment, he looks deep in thought before he closes his eyes and slowly rolls himself into the ring to sit in the corner as the lights keep pulsing. Removing the hooded sweatshirt he entered the arena with, he slowly sits and waits for his opponent and the match to start.

As the opening guitar riff to "I'm Your Favorite Drug" by Porcelain and the Tramps begins to play, the lights fade and take on a brilliant pink hue.



The chorus kicks in as Savannah steps out from the back, her hands placed on her slender hips as she looks out over the crowd, most of whom are caught between jeering the blonde and showing their appreciation. She simply rolls her eyes as she causally walks down the aisle.

David Zinkus: And coming to the ring… SAVANNAAAAAAAAAAAAH TAAAAAAAYLOOOOOOR!!

Once at the end of the ramp, she hops up onto the apron and spins around so her back is resting on the ropes. Placing her hands on the top rope, Savannah places one foot on the middle rope and effortlessly swings herself backward into the ring. Once inside, she flicks her hair behind her as she walks over to the corner, resting her back against the turnbuckle as the lights return to normal.

The two competitors circle the ring, sizing each other. Zeppeli smirks and gestures for Taylor to come and get it. Taylor smiles coyly and shakes her head no, flipping her hair behind her back and motions for Zeppeli to make the first move. The two walk slowly towards each other to the middle of the ring and reach out at the same time. They lock up and there is a brief struggle before Zeppeli uses his strength advantage to force Taylor into a corner. Taylor releases the hold and throws her hands up. Zeppeli smirks again and starts to back away but Taylor reaches out and slaps him across the face!

Zeppeli’s head snaps back from the force of it. He holds that pose for a moment as Taylor smiles smugly and attempts to escape. Zeppeli turns his head back to her and there is an evil glint in his eyes. The smile on his face wipes the smirk off Taylor’s face and her eyes widen slightly. Before she can make a move, Zeppeli grabs her by the head and tosses her to the middle of the ring. Taylor falls hard and attempts to roll away, but Zeppeli is right there with a series of vicious stomps. Taylor screams out, covering her face and rolling away blindly. She makes it to the edge of the ring and rolls out. Zeppeli grabs at the ropes and shakes them, yelling over the booing crowd.

Dick Morosi: The fans are making their displeasure known, but who can really say who they detest more? Both competitors seem intent on playing mind games rather than fighting.

Seth Ericson: It’s got to be Kira! How can anyone hate Savannah with a body and face like that?! Kira was trying to destroy that perfection, the crowd obviously hates him.

Taylor circles the ring holding onto her ribs in pain as she glares back up at the screaming Zeppeli. She shakes her head as the ref begins his count. Zeppeli turns his glare to the ref and slides out of the ring. Taylor runs ahead and slides back in quickly. Zeppeli attempts to reenter the ring but Taylor nails him in the face with a baseball slide kick to the face! Zeppeli stumbles back into the guard rail. Fans just around excitedly as he leans against it in a daze, shaking off the cobwebs. Taylor poses in the ring, mocking Zeppeli. The fans boo loudly, still unsure of which wrestler they hate more.

Zeppeli pushes himself off the guardrail and walks slowly back towards the ring. He takes a cautious step towards the ring, and backs away quickly when Taylor starts towards him. Taylor smirks and gestures mockingly for Zeppeli to come back in. The ref’s count is at 5 now. Zeppeli attempts to enter the ring again. Taylor charges for him, but Zeppeli rolls out of the way and Taylor is caught in the ropes!

Seth Ericson: I can think of a way I’d like to get Savannah caught up that way.

Dick Morosi: Savannah Taylor in dire straits here as Zeppeli wastes no time taking advantage!

Zeppeli grins sadistically and paces behind Taylor as she struggles to free herself. Zeppeli takes a few steps back and with a small run forward, jams his knee right into Taylor’s spine! Taylor screams with pain and falls to the mat, her foot still caught on the ropes. She falls gracelessly on her back, inviting Zeppeli to begin toying with her. He pushes her face from side to side with his foot. Taylor attempts to push him off while struggling to free her foot, but Zeppeli smirks and continues to toy with her.

Seth Ericson: This is just wrong. This is degrading and a lady like Savannah deserves better than this.

Dick Morosi: Zeppeli is wasting precious time here toying with Savannah when he should be focusing on his offensive. She won’t be caught in those ropes forever.

Taylor finally manages to get her foot free as Zeppeli walks off to gloat to the booing crowd. He turns around to charge a vicious punt to Taylor’s head, but Taylor is ready! She grabs Zeppeli by the foot and trips him up, causing Zeppeli to fall into the ropes! Taylor jumps to her feet and wastes no time playing around. Grabbing at the ropes for momentum, she delivers a series of quick, striking kicks to Zeppeli up and down his body. The shots blast through the crowd, causing the fans to cry out with each one. Zeppeli falls from the ropes and Taylor curbstomps him viciously, pay back for earlier.

Dick Morosi: Taylor exacting some form of revenge! She’s found her steam now!

Seth Ericson: Savannah can’t be stopped!

Taylor continues her offensive. Even when Zeppeli tries to roll away, Taylor drives a knee into his back to stop him. As he’s cringing in pain, Taylor climbs on top of him, driving her knees into his ribcage. The ref is unsure of whether to start counting or not. Taylor places both hands on the mat and lifting up her lower body, drives her knees back into Zeppeli’s ribcage. The ref now interferes as Zeppeli loses all the air in his lungs. Taylor glares at the ref but backs away for a moment. As Zeppeli gets to his knees, Taylor charges in with a shining wizard that sends Zeppeli back to the mat. She quickly goes for the cover.

1…

2…

No! Zeppeli gets the shoulder up before the ref’s hand hits for the three count. Taylor looks up in frustration and backs away, leaning against the ropes. Zeppeli is slow to get to his feet and he is clearly dazed and out of place. He turns towards Taylor slowly. Taylor rushes off the ropes, attempting to clothesline Zeppeli back down, but Zeppeli sees it coming and ducks. Taylor, not losing momentum, bounces back, but Zeppeli is ready and picks her up, sending her down with a side slam. Taylor rolls around in pain and Zeppeli, wasting no time now to play, rolls her over for the cover.

1…

Not even close! One slam isn’t enough to keep Taylor down at this time. Zeppeli wastes no time following up. He gets to his feet, bringing Taylor with him by the hair. Holding her by the hair, he slaps her a few times, sneering into her face as she struggles to free herself. Zeppeli smiles, his eyes shining as he senses her desperation. He starts to set her up for his Feeding Time finisher.

Dick Morosi: Taylor in danger of another loss here as Zeppeli gains a solid advantage here.

Taylor reverses and catches Zeppeli off guard with a dropkick! It’s not enough to take him off his feet but as Zeppeli stumbles, Taylor takes the advantage and nails Zeppeli with Siren’s Song!

Seth Ericson: But there’s Savannah showing total dominance again!

Taylor drops to the mat and hooks the leg.

1…

2…

3!

The bell rings as Taylor jumps to her feet and has her arm raised in victory.

David Zinkus: YOUR WINNER, SAVANNAH TAYLOR!

WINNER: SAVANNAH TAYLOR

Taylor snatches her hand from referee’s and climbs the turnbuckle to gloat her victory to the booing crowd.

Dick Morosi Savannah Taylor pulling off an impressive victory over the dominant Kira Zeppeli. This is just the win she needed to get some momentum going again.

Seth Ericson: It’s been a rough streak for Savannah, tonight is the win she needed to get back on track.

Dick Morosi: She opens up a floodgate for her, Kira, and Fiona Rourke to advance! As she celebrates, let's head backstage!

We cut backstage once more once more, finding ourselves in one of the long, spiraling hallways. The traditional white walls are decorated with various framed photos, mostly still shots of spectacular moves performed by EXODUS’ finest. One poster that seems to grip the attention of all is the one advertising the upcoming pay per view, ‘Battle Without Honor Or Humanity’. Striding into view is a stunning figure, dressed to the nines in a gorgeous, flowing purple gown. Luscious black curls hang down towards her chin line, her make-up expertly applied. Upon her face is a confident grin, her arms spread wide pointing out different locations. Trailing behind her at short distance is another figure, slightly shorter but with similar dark locks. This one, obviously the younger of the pair, is glad very casually in jeans and a white t-shirt. A name tag hangs down from her neck, reading ‘EXODUS Staff – Ana’. The woman in the beautiful gown, obviously Lady Magdalena, turns to the young girl that is following her.

Lady Magdalena: So, dear child. That is the grand tour of the RIMAC. What do you think, Ana?

Anastasia Starling: Woooow… It’s so busy here. I didn’t know it would be such hard work. It’s crazy here, just like home.

The Fair Lady raises an inquisitive eyebrow to this comment.

Lady Magdalena: You mean the carnival, ma cherie?

Young Ana nods her head enthusiastically, quite unsure when to stop.

Anastasia Starling: Oh yes, Milady. It’s the only place I’ve ever known.

Magdalena places a reassuring hand on her young friend’s shoulder, before putting a single arm around her as she took her under her wing.

Lady Magdalena: Well, you have a new home now. One day, if you apply yourself properly in training and listen to everything Heather tells you, you could compete here.

Anastasia Starling: That would be sooo coolio!

Lady Magdalena: Okay, my dearest. I just need to run a quick errand. Don’t get into any trouble.

Anastasia Starling: HEY! Now would I do a thing li—Yeah I probably would! I’ll stay right here.

The Fair Lady of EXODUS laughs at this comment before turning and walking out of view. Ana takes a deep breath, rocking on her heels nervously as she fidgets with her hands. At this point, she hears a strange rumble. She looks about herself, looking incredibly confused. The rumbling noise seems to be getting louder and curiosity gets the better of her. She finds a battered old trash can, the lid tightly shut open it. The bin begins to slowly shuffle towards her, making the poor girl yelp in fright. It continuously moves towards her, backing her into the wall until it is only inches away. Ana has her hands pinned against the pale wall, her face growing a similar colour. She then yelps in fright once more as the lid flies off to reveal…

Blowjob: HELLLLLLOOOOOOOOO!!!

Ana blinks three times, not quite sure what to make of the turban wearing midget in the bin.

Anastasia Starling: Oh my goodness, gracious me. Wait… what are you?

Blowjob: WOULD YOU LIKE A WEASEL??!

BJ Mandeep is holding a live weasel in his hands, one that simply stares at Ana with a perplexed look upon it’s face.

Anastasia Starling: T-that’s a live weasel!

BJ shrugs, hurling the animal over his shoulders then pulling a small bag out of thin air.

Blowjob: OR MAYBE SOME DEEP FRIED CALAMIRI??!

Anastasia Starling: N-no… I’m a vegetarian…

The dwarf looks puzzled, but then reaches into his trash can and pulls out several more items.

Blowjob: OR HOW ABOUT ONE OF MY MASTER’S MANY SEMI NUDE PICTORIALS?

Anastasia Starling: Ewwww! No! I’m blinded!

Ana slams the lid down upon the trash can, before jumping on top of it so that Blowjob cannot climb out of the bin again. She wipes her forehead with the back of her hand, letting out a ‘phew’ noise as she idly kicked away at thin air. Suddenly she is taken off guard by a deafening sound, an explosion that shocks her that much she tumbles off the trash can and to the bare floor. She looks up to the opposite wall, her eyes wide as she lets out a gasp. Implanted on the wall was an enormous effigy of an eagle, its feathers a decadent shade of silver, its beak pure gold and its wings tipped with very real flames that burned brightly and ferociously. Right underneath was a carving of a trophy, not just any trophy. It was a Grail, looking strikingly familiar to the Honor Cup. She stood up, rubbing her eyes for a second as she looked on.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Good to see you again, Songbird…

She turned to see the mysterious figure of Andreas Lasiewicz, clad in his yellow and crimson ring gear. Her face lights up, a childlike grin spread across her, her eyes turning from confusion to joy. Andreas makes a courteous bow before vanishing from sight. She looks about, wondering where he could have gone. Just then, Magdalena comes back into view, followed by members of the security team who quickly begin to put out the flames. Ana bows her head, kind of embarrassed at the situation she is in.

Anastasia Starling: I didn’t do that. I promise, I did not do that!

Magdalena merely shakes her head as we cut to a commercial.

We come back from commercial, and we find ourselves in a secluded part of the RIMAC, where Jonathan Collins sits alone and in solitude. For a brief moment, he seems like he is all to himself, but a shadow comes into view, meaning that his self-imposed exile has come to an end.

Jonathan Collins: You're getting better at finding me.

Stepping out of the shadows is none other than Fiona Rourke, who smiles at the man she is soon to call her husband. She walks closer before she sits on the ground, using the opportunity to stretch out her body before the big match.

Fiona Rourke: Hey, it's only fair it's my turn to find you since you do it so often to me, right? You doing okay, Captain?

Jonathan Collins: About as good as I'm gonna get. You don't see them gray skies comin'?

Fiona Rourke: I don't see any gray skies coming. Shouldn't you be more positive? We're going to destroy them tonight and you know it.

She smiles at him, reaching across her to grab his hand and meet his eyes.

Fiona Rourke: We're gonna be out there together again. All I see is sunshine and blue skies.

Jonathan sighs and looks at her, giving her hand a squeeze as he thinks quietly.

Jonathan Collins: For you, yes. You got into the semifinals, which I'm very happy for you. I want to know something though, so please be honest with me. Please.

Fiona frowns slightly at the way he seems so urgent to ask her something, as a seed of worry and uncertainty grows inside her.

Fiona Rourke: I'm always honest with you, Jon. What is it?

Jonathan Collins: Did you have anything to do with what happened to Sally Talfourd?

Fiona pulls her hand out of his, her face staring at him with shock and disbelief written across it.

Fiona Rourke: Did you really just ask me that? You think I'd do something like that to her....to anyone?

Jonathan Collins: Fiona, you haven't exactly been Sally's biggest fan. I don't think you'd do it to purposely KO her for the forfeit, but all things considered...I just want to hear it from you. I want to tell me. And whether you did it or not, I'll stand by you.

Fiona Rourke: No! No, I didn't do anything to her! Yes, I admit I didn't like her because I felt like she was trying to come between us but that doesn't mean I set out to injure her or harm her in any way. Somebody set me up. I know it.....

She looks at Jon again, shaking her head before she sighs.

Fiona Rourke: I swear to you, Jon. I didn't lay a hand on her or do anything to her. I'm not like that and you know it. At least.....I hope you do.

He looks at her strongly for a moment. It's silent, as if he was sizing it up and sizing her up. With that, Collins reaches for her hand to take it, bringing it up to kiss her knuckles.

Jonathan Collins: I believe you. You've got my complete support.

She sighs again, looking down at her hand in his before she nods her head and raises her eyes to meet his, looking at him.

Fiona Rourke: Did you really think I did something to her?

Jonathan Collins: I believe that love will make people do anything to protect who they love and what they love. Believe me, that is something I understand implicitly.

Fiona scoots herself closer to where Jon is sitting, legs folding under her so that their knees are touching and hands are held tightly.

Fiona Rourke: I would do anything for you and for Madison. I love you both more than anything and I would protect her and you if anything happened to you. But I promise on my heart that I didn't touch Sally.

Jonathan Collins: All I needed to hear.

He smiles and kisses her forehead, reaching for something before he looks at her.

Jonathan Collins: Go and get ready, I have a couple more things I need to do before we take care of business. I'll see you in a few.

Fiona gives him a soft smile as she nods her head and squeezes his hands, giving him a quick kiss before she stands up.

Fiona Rourke: I love you, Jon. See you in a few.

Collins smiles and nods, letting her walk off as he sighs, revealing his injured left hand...and how it seems to be in a soft cast now. With that, we cut back to Dick & Seth.

Dick Morosi: Jonathan Collins had to ask, and it made perfect sense.

Seth Ericson: Yeah, but that doesn't mean I believe Fiona Rourke. Not only did she get her trip to the semifinals guaranteed, but she took out Sally Talfourd after all those seemingly advances she made against Jonathan Collins.

Dick Morosi: I don't buy into it. It's just not something Fiona's known to do, especially considering she's never backed down from a challenge in her career. Of course, speaking of challenges, Jimmy Riley's got a huge one right now! It's him against Seymour Almasy for a Block B win and it's next!

HONOR CUP MATCH (Block B)
JIMMY RILEY (EXODUS Pro San Diego Bay Champion) vs. SEYMOUR ALMASY

David Zinkus: The following contest is an Honor Cup Block B Match and is scheduled for one fall.

The heroic sounding strains of “Glenn's Theme” by Yatsunori Mitsuda hit the speakers of the RIMAC, as a cloud of white smoke obscured the entryway. Moments later, the only man in wrestling who would use a track off the Chrono Trigger OST stepped through the fog, power-walking his way towards the squared circle.

David Zinkus: On his way to the ring at this time, hailing from the Kingdom of Guardia, he stands five feet eight inches tall, and weighs in at one-hundred seventy-seven pounds, he is the self-proclaimed Judge Magister of EXODUS Pro Wrestling...SEYMOUR ALMASY!

Slapping hands with fans on his way towards the squared circle, the Judge Magister's attention is nonetheless focused on the ring and task at hand. Once he reaches the ring, Almasy slides in under the bottom rope, and readies himself for battle.

Dick Morosi: With Blake Jones winning earlier, this has now become a battle of pride for the decorated veteran. He’s playing the role of spoiler.

Seth Ericson: Somewhere backstage Jones is watching intently, knowing he knees Seymour to be victorious if he has any hopes of winning the block.

The wailing of Patrick Stump echoes throughout the building as fans rise to their feet, looking at the entrance way. As the first verse of “My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark” breaks through the PA system, Jimmy Riley bursts through the curtain, walking out on the stage. His smiling face is looking out at the fans as he walks around the stage itself, motioning for the fans to get on their feet and get louder. Upon coming back to the center of the stage, Riley takes off, heading for the ring. His hoodie is half-zipped up, and he makes sure to reach out and slap some fans' hands as he makes his way down the aisle.

David Zinkus: And introducing his opponent, from Cleveland Ohio by way of Anaheim, California. Weighing in tonight at two hundred and thirty pounds… he is the San Diego Bay Champion… Jimmy RILEY!

Reaching the ring as the chorus hits, Jimmy hops up on the apron, spinning around and locking his arms around the top rope, bouncing off of it just a little bit as he looks out at the audience again. After a moment, he swings one leg up and his body carries under the top rope, bouncing to mid-ring where he throws his arms out to the side, soaking in the crowd reaction before he backs into his corner, removing his hoodie and preparing for the match at hand.

Seth Ericson: It’s all about winning for Riley. He wins, he’s in. He wins his Block and is that much closer to winning the Honor Cup and earning a shot at the World Championship.

Dick Morosi: Yeah, but don’t expect Seymour to lie down. He may not be able to win the block, but he can certainly make himself a contender to Riley’s championship when this tournament is said and done. They both have something to fight for tonight.

As the bell chimes thrice both men lock up in the center of the ring, starting off the contest in the most traditional manner. Each superstar protrudes his hands, quickly conjoining their fingers and causing their hands to clamp together. Both competitors attempt to gain the early initiative and direct the tempo in the bout as they lean into one another. Due to being significantly taller, stronger, and wider than his foe, the advantage is clearly Riley’s and he exploits it using his entire frame to force his adversary to recline and bend backward. Seymour grits his teeth and squints his eyes, racking his brain for an escape plan. As he feels himself succumbing to Jimmy’s might, the aerialist pops his hips, springing himself back to a state of full verticality. Using the momentum, The Judge Magister slides his hands out of his foe’s grasp before connecting with a toe kick to the Ohioan’s solar plexus. He then follows up with a headlock, as he sidesteps and locks his opponent’s skull between the crook of his elbow and the side of his body.

Admist being at his foe’s mercy Jimmy remains composed, snugging his head as close as he possibly can before falling back into the ropes. He uses the elasticity of the cables to build momentum, bouncing off the ropes whilst thrusting his palm into Almasy’s back, shoving him forward and simultaneously escaping the headlock. The Cruiserweight rebounds off the ropes as Riley flops to a prone position, coercing his adversary into hurdling over him. After ricocheting for a second time, Seymour charges straight into The Risen Star’s embrace. Almasy lunges forward and places his head between Riley’s thighs before pushing off the thighs to springboard and flip onto JR’s shoulders. He then leans back to drag him into a forced somersault, and the Hurricanrana ends with the The Judge Magister applying a double leg cradle pin.

Dick Morosi: What an exchange there! Seymour’s quickness and elusiveness proved to be too much for Riley.

“ONE!”
“TWO!”

Seth Ericson: But not enough to keep him down.

Riley forcefully bucks out of the pin attempt, objecting to what would be a confidence hindering defeat. Almasy then pushes himself up off the mat unsurprised, and looks to follow up off his opening offense as he coerces the Ohioan up with him by the back of his neck. The seasoned veteran pushes his foe into the nearest corner and quickly strikes with a Shoot style kick to the chest, and another to the midsection, before following up with a knife-edge chop that sends a snapping sound throughout the RIMAC arena. The spectators howl with Flair-like tribute in instinct to the sound which is met with the howling of Riley himself, in pain rather than cheer obviously. A second and a third chop strikes Jimmy’s bare chest leading him to crumble slightly in the corner, a sheer look of uncomfortability and untolerated anguish on his facial features.

Seymour then grabs his arm and pulls him forward, only for Riley to counter and whip him diagonally across the ring where the Cruiserweight absorbs the collision into the pads and raises up his boots with his mass held by his arms across the ropes on either side of him. The charging San Diego Bay Champion collides head-first with the sole of Almasy’s boots, sending him wobbling backward in a dazed stupor. Seymour then bursts out of the corner in a run with an arm held out, but Jimmy shakes the cobwebs in time to grab the arm and lift him onto his shoulders in a Fireman’s Carry. The Risen Star holds Seymour’s entire frame, and carries the said one hundred and seventy-seven pounds into the center of the ring before pushing Almasy up into the air. He grabs a hold of his foe’s leg, before falling backward to drop him face first into the canvas. The ring shakes as the sound of Seymour crashing into the ring reverberates through the RIMAC arena, as he lies prone courtesy of the Flapjack. However, he doesn’t remain in that state for long, as Jimmy rolls back to sit on his spine and with a leg already in his clutches, he quickly applies a Half Boston Crab.

Seth Ericson: What a combination right from The Risen Star. There’s a reason he’s two thirds the way of becoming the first Triple Crown Champion. He’s got Seymour right where he wants him.

Dick Morosi: It was a very brilliant counter. He’s got the Half Crab cinched in, and he’s sitting his entire weight on Almasy’s back. The savvy vet will have to find a way out of this grueling submission if he wants to finish his time in the Honor Cup with a victory.

Amidst a flurry of fanfare coming from the fans in attendance, Riley continues to crank the hold, sending more pain through the entirety of the living legend’s captured leg, as well as his back. Before the pain can become unbearable, Seymour lifts up off the canvas, forcing Riley to stand, giving him a window of opportunity to escape. He rolls onto his back, and throws his free leg to kick his assailant in the face. Encouraged by the result of said kick, he fires another one, forcing his opponent to back off as he is sent stumbling backward. Almasy climbs up onto his feet, albeit gingerly as he tends to his worn down leg. Seeing this, Riley looks to take advantage and put down his weakened foe. He goes for a Clothesline, but Seymour dodges it whilst simultaneously grabbing a hold of the protruding arm. When Riley turns around he spins underneath whilst twisting the arm over the Ohioan’s head, resulting in the aforementioned captured limb being wrenched. He then presses the arm into his body before hooking Jimmy’s far leg and the other with his free hand to bring him down with an Inside Cradle.

“ONE!”
“TWO!”

Riley breaks free and rolls away from his adversary, then moves to the opposite side of the ring. Seymour wheels up to a vertical base, running several game plans through his head, desperately searching for one that will put his foe away. Quickly, he begins to charge at his adversary, however Riley must have been anticipating it, as he jumps to the side and kicks both feet out. The low Dropkick slams into the outside of Seymour’s right knee, cutting him down just as he had built himself up.

Seth Ericson: What a counter. Riley is attacking that knee, I swear he’s surgical in that ring!

Almasy lets out a grunt of pain as he crashes to the mat. The moment when his agony reaches its apex is when he finally clutches the knee of the leg that was just suddenly, and forcefully taken out from under him. The San Diego Bay Champion rolls onto his side and pushes himself to a standing position, then feasts on his foe’s perilous state. Showing no mercy, he places a leg between Seymour’s before bending one of them, and placing it on top of the knee of the other. Afterward, the well traveled veteran picks up the Cruiserweight’s straight leg and bends it backward to lock the other leg in the knee pit, placing his foot in front of the shin of the standing leg to lock in the standing Indian Deathlock.

Dick Morosi: Indian Deathlock! Seymour could tap out here! He’s squirming and convulsing like a caught fish in a net!

Seth Ericson: Riley will snap that leg in half if he needs to. Winning his Block is riding on this contest, and he will NOT be denied tonight, not if he can help it!

Almasy refuses to succumb to the pain and pressure, the crowd looking on half in anguish, half with enthusiasm as The Judge Magister tries to fight his way out of the devastating submission. Tenacious and resilient, he begins crawling toward the ropes - Riley maintains his grip, desperately holding on and continuing to inflict excruciating amounts of pain, yet his adversary manages to bear it. The afflicted Almasy stretches out his arms and slides his chest off the canvas, allowing him to make up the difference as his arm hangs around the bottom rope to feverish cheers and frustration fueled obscenities from his opponent. Back on his feet, Riley pulls Seymour to his before shoving him into the corner. Riley begins kicking his opponent in the midsection. One, two, three, four… fans chant on in unison as Almasy slouches further into the corner with each passing kick. Five, six, seven eight, nine… now he is fully seated, leaving himself open for a tenth kick, this time to his mug. The Ohioan’s leg moves back and forth, as he begins to wash the face of his opponent, giving him a sensation reminiscent of rug burn.

Riley then focuses his attention on the throat, and knowing he’ll only get a miniscule amount of time to perform the following act, Jimmy shoves his foot into Almasy’s neck and presses harshly and viciously. Some of the crowd boos, but others simply look on, knowing Riley is not against bending the rules from time to time to ensure victory. After referee Dan Arnouil begins counting, the choke is released at four, a second before disqualification. Jimmy grabs him by the legs and then pulls him out of the corner, before stepping over him and exiting the ring. The Ohioan gets onto the apron long enough to climb the turnbuckles from there. As he completes his climb, Seymour begins to stir, having recaptured his breath and recuperated enough to stand. He immediately heads for the corner and climbs up to stop Riley, only to receive a series of punches and headbutts for his efforts. He drops from the turnbuckle and leans into the ropes in a daze, only to suddenly come to as he pulls himself onto the top ring cable. From there, he leaps off the nylon cable and into the air, straddling Riley’s shoulder before bringing him down with a Hurricanrana. Jimmy is launched off the top and with a massive thud the two hundred and thirty pound superstar pancakes to the canvas.

Dick Morosi: HURRICANRANA FROM THE TOP ROPE!

Seth Ericson: NO WAY! UN-FRICKEN-BELIEVABLE! Where did that come from?

The move garners a massive pop and ovation from the crowd, as Almasy pulls himself up into the corner, slumping to a seated position with his back resting on the turnbuckle. Despite having to exert pressure and energy on his injured knee, Seymour seems to have found a second wind and discovered new found energy. He scrambles out of the corner and immediately vyes for the pinfall, flopping onto his adversary’s limp and inanimate form.

“ONE!”
“TWO!”

Almasy’s energy leaves just as quickly as it came, and he stares at the canvas, trying to work the cogs in his brain into overtime. He rubs his palms against his face, trying to capture an idea, or some sort of spark of imagination from the electricity in the air. Meanwhile, Jimmy rolls to his side, clutching the ropes and the small of his back to try and return to a vertical position. He hobbles unsteadily on his feet upon reaching a stand, where Almasy immediately meets him. The Judge Magister connects with a toe kick, then lowers his shoulder to force the Ohioan into the corner. Already bent, he thrusts his shoulder into his opponent’s solar plexus, driving out the air from Jimmy’s body. Afterward, the veteran retreats into the center of the ring, only to pivot on his heels and come running back with a turnbuckle splash attempt. However, a boot connects with his cranium which stops him in his tracks. Looking to seize the opportunity, Riley jaunts forward as Seymour spins around to confront him, only to see a kick come speeding to his face. Reacting quickly, he captures the appendage with his palms, before locking his catch in the crux of his arm, leaving the other to grab at the toe of Jimmy’s boot and twist sideways to apply a standing Ankle Lock.

Dick Morosi: Seymour with a counter! He’s twisting that ankle, and if he can transition Riley to the canvas, he’ll have this match well in his grasp.

Due the to force, Riley immediately alleviates the torque of the submission hold by pivoting on his remaining leg with a groan. His eyes survey the landscape, and quickly lock on the ropes - and he desperately reaches out for them. Seeing this, Seymour lurches back, causing the Ohioan to lose his footing and fall to the canvas. Only then is the ankle locked ‘locked’ in with the San Diego Bay Champion flailing on the mat. Almasy powers with all his force in twisting at the said appendage, however, despite his yelling in anguish, Riley’s frame becomes great benefit to him. Thanks to his height and own strength he is able to claw his way from the middle of the squared circle and wrap a single hand on the bottom rope. Riley continues screaming as Seymour keeps the hold on despite knowing that the submission is now null and void. Dan Arnouil immediately reprimands Almasy and orders him to relinquish the hold, yet the furrowing vet shows no signs of letting go. Jimmy begins scrambling up the ropes with his upper body until getting to a vertical base, albeit on one leg.

Seymour buckles from the resistance, and begins to pivot inward to face him in the eyes. It is then Riley shows his #VetStatus, as a significant amount of wrestling thought influences him to kip up off his lower leg and bring it cracking against his foe’s skull. The sickening assault to the side of Almasy’s cranium limps his arms and legs as he is reduced to a single knee. With an adrenaline boost, Riley scrambles to his feet and immediately lifts him onto his shoulders.

Seth Ericson: Looks like someone’s about to get ‘Lit Up’!

Knowing what his foe’s intentions are, Seymour squirms out of Riley’s grasp and ends up slipping out of the Fireman’s Carry, ending up on the mat right behind Jimmy. The Judge Magister staggers back and falls into the ropes before charging forward. Riley turns around to try and regain control, only to see a Bicycle Kick come his way. The leg transitions to knee which points at Riley’s cranium, but the San Diego Bay Champion manages to circumvent the attack. Having enough wits about him, he immediately strafes behind Almasy, grabbing a hold of his near arm before spinning him around and hurling his free arm right at his head. His arm collides with Seymour’s skull, and the violent collision turns the Cruiserweight inside out as he immediately rendered unconscious from the wrist clutch short arm lariat.

Dick Morosi: SUPERNOVA LARIAT! He got ALL of that!

Seth Ericson: He just took his HEAD off!

Riley quickly pulls him up to his feet, quickly reaching in between his legs before lifting him onto his shoulders in the Fireman’s Carry. With that, the end is no secret, as he throws him into the air before blasting him in the face with a VICIOUS elbow smash! With Seymour sprawling, Riley quickly covers him, and Dan Arnouil immediately slides into position.

Seth Ericson: LIGHT EM UP! That’s it!

“ONE!”
“TWO!”
“THREE!”

Dick Morosi: Seymour fought valiantly, but once he missed “Save The Queen” it was the end of his night.

David Zinkus: The winner of this contest via pinfall, JIMMY RILEY!

WINNER: JIMMY RILEY

Dick Morosi: RILEY RUNS THE TABLE! Riley pulls off a huge victory and advances into the Semifinals of the Honor Cup!

Seth Ericson: The Risen Star has finally come to peak! He's going all the way, Dick!

Dick Morosi: And while he celebrates, let's head backstage!

After the action in the ring comes to a close, the scene cuts to the backstage area where ace reporter Tom Matheny is seen walking around. He is about to turn and head off when his attention is drawn to the door leading from the parking garage opens and a figure walks in. The figure is revealed to be none other than the woman who made quite the impact on Jerry Matthews, the woman known as ‘The Fallen Angel’ Angela Jameson. She has a black and purple bag slung over her shoulder and her black Prada sunglasses cover her eyes as she walks past Tom.

Tom Matheny: Excuse me, Angela….

The Fallen Angel pays no attention to him as she walks by, the reporter close on her heels.

Tom Matheny: Angela, may I have a word with you?

Still she ignores him as she walks towards the turn to head to the locker rooms. Before she can make that turn, Tom reaches out and places his hand on her arm, a move which causes her to stop in her tracks. Turning around, she slides her sunglasses on top of her head and glances at the reporter, a look of amusement on her face.

Angela Jameson: What’s wrong? Can’t I even show up to work without people getting in my face?

She says with a smirk as she continues to walk off, leaving a silenced Tom as we fade out to a commercial break.

A dejected Seymour Almasy makes his way backstage, towards the locker room area. Fresh off a loss to Jimmy Riley that has eliminated him from the Honor Cup, the Judge Magister wears a towel over his head, pretty clearly trying to eliminate attention from him as much as possible.

Seymour Almasy: Damnit. I...didn't think it'd end up like this.

As he walks, though, it soon becomes clear that, in spite of his most fervent wishes, Seymour Almasy is not alone.

??: I am disappointed in you, sensei. I expected you to beat Riley tonight and at least give yourself the chance to lose to my colleagues.

The Judge Magister sighs, and stops where he is. He knows the voice, and even if he didn't, the words coming out of the man's mouth make it rather clear of the imposing man's identity.

Seymour Almasy: Good to see you too, Ryuji. Don't you have anything better to do than rub salt in a fresh wound?

Kamigawa, for his part, rounds Almasy with a faint smile on his face, putting himself in the path of his former trainer and mentor.

Ryuji Kamigawa: Not until the main event, no.

The grin on Kamigawa's face merely deepens at Seymour's obvious discomfort.

Ryuji Kamigawa: But...no. I did not come here to rub salt in your wounds. I know well the difficulty of this battleground. What I AM here to do, though, is ask you if you have opened your eyes and seen EXODUS for what it is, yet. You have had ample evidence by now, I am sure.

Almasy shakes his head at the considerably larger member of Gods & Monsters. He knows what Ryuji is getting at, of course – the point being the practical mission statement of Gods & Monsters that most of the company's heroes are hypocrites.

Worst of all? It's not a point that's particularly wrong, even if the messengers themselves happen to be fairly terrible human beings.

Seymour Almasy: Why yes, Kamigawa-san. I have ample evidence to show why I need to eliminate Gods & Monsters from existence. If not for villains like you, the Andreas Lasiewiczes and Jonathan Collinses of the world have no need to stoop to unnecessary tactics.

Seymour flinches, even as he speaks – the words practically scream boy scout, in the way he tries very hard to avoid.

Kamigawa's only initial response is laughter, a loud, deep bark that catches Seymour off guard, unsettling him considerably.

Ryuji Kamigawa: Do you truly believe that, my mentor? If so, you are delusional enough that there may be no saving you. “Villains like us”? We are not the preacher, Seymour. We have done nothing to anyone save fight them in the manner that professional wrestlers do. I broke a bottle over a man's head – in the grand scheme of things, how bad of a crime is this? I am even going to the ring tonight to allow Zero McHannon the chance to enact his glorious vengeance – assuming that he CAN, of course.

The Monster in White grins, deeply, toothily, reaching out one mammoth hand to pat/club Seymour on the shoulder.

Ryuji Kamigawa: Jonathan Collins and Andreas Lasiewicz are no better people than I am. Quite possibly, they are worse than I am, and yet they have the adoration of the fans because they enact their evil deeds against those the audience dislikes. And even that isn't entirely true – I suppose you condone what happened to Abby Park months ago, Seymour?

Seymour Almasy: Of course not, that was--

Ryuji Kamigawa: Unjustifiable, right?

Having walked right into Kamigawa's trap, Almasy swallows. Usually, the big man's size is the most intimidating fact about him, but apparently enough time exchanging philosophy with Magnus Gunner has left Kamigawa capable of arguing philosophy with the Judge Magister, as well.

Ryuji Kamigawa: Your entire theory is flawed, based on the faulty assumption that without LEGION or Gods & Monsters, Jonathan Collins and company will magically become good actors. It does not work that way, Seymour. One cannot deny what they truly are. And worse for you, would-be hero, the longer you accept their actions, the more you fight us and not them, you allow yourself to become...obsolete.

Seymour Almasy: The Hell are you talking about?

Ryuji Kamigawa: Did I hit a nerve, Seymour? My apologies.

The disingenuous tone in Kamigawa's voice indicates that no, he's not sorry in the slightest.

Ryuji Kamigawa: As I was saying, though...those men feed off of the hate and malice of the crowd. The RIMAC does not wish to see my shoulders pinned to the mat. They wish to see me bloodied. Beaten. Perhaps walk out of the ring with broken teeth or a shattered ankle. They will applaud you for pinning Magnus Gunner, they would ROAR for Chris Strike to cripple him. Heroes are not welcome in EXODUS, Seymour. That is why I told you not to come here. Why I fought against you coming here even when I joined. I knew then what would happen, just as I know now what WILL happen.

There is something notable on Almasy's face – something that Magnus Gunner nor Gods & Monsters could bring out – legitimate, honest fear.

Ryuji Kamigawa: EXODUS Pro Wrestling will have your soul, Judge Magister. It will chew you up. It will spit you out. And it will smile.

For thirty long seconds, Seymour Almasy says nothing.

And then, as if trying to exorcise the words of Ryuji from his mind, he shakes his head from side to side four times, and then walks on, blowing Kamigawa off entirely in search of the sanctity of the locker room.

Kamigawa? He simply shrugs, on his way back towards the G&M locker room to prepare last minute strategy with his colleagues, and we go back to Dick & Seth.

Dick Morosi: Things are getting heated with Seymour Almasy and Ryuji Kamigawa.

Seth Ericson: You think that's heated? We got this main event!

Dick Morosi: That's right! It's gigantic ten-man tag action and it's next!

MAIN EVENT: TEN MAN TAG TEAM MATCH
JONATHAN COLLINS/ANDREAS LASIEWICZ/ZERO MCHANNON (EXODUS Pro World Champion)/FIONA ROURKE/CHRIS STRIKE
vs.
MAGNUS GUNNER/RYUJI KAMIGAWA/ZACK LIFER (EXODUS Pro International Champion)/JERRY MATTHEWS/BRETT SANDS

"Burn" by Papa Roach begins to blare all throughout the arena as the audience begins to boo. Brett Sands steps through the curtains, wearing his dark green trunks and his dark green sleeveless hoodie, a cocky smirk on his face as he stands at the top of the ramp. The audience continues to throw heat his way and all he does is raise his right arm up in the air, hand balled up to a fist.

Dick Morosi: Here’s the first competitor in our main event.

Seth Ericson: This match is going to be exciting!!

Sands slowly makes his way down the ramp, that same smirk on his face as he can hear the boos, but does not pay attention to the people who are throwing said hate at him. Once reaching ringside, Brett makes his way up the steel steps and enters the ring before walking to the center of it and basking in the hate, letting out a small "ah" sound before removing his hoodie and tossing it at the announcer. As Josh Turner's "Long Black Train" begins to play, "The Evangelist" Jerry Matthews strides down the aisle in a suit and tie. In his hand, he carries a Bible and begins his regular sermon as he ventures down to the ring. His spiritual liaison, Deacon Jeremiah, accompanies him to ringside with an offering plate, ready to collect money from any believers in the crowd. As he gets to the ring, he climbs through the ropes and removes his suit. He then raises his Bible in a preachly manner to the crowd as they boo incessantly.

Seth Ericson: They really hate Jerry Matthews.

Dick Morosi: Who doesn’t?

A brief flash of silence passes through the arena as the stage is shined on by red and white lights, the house lights dimming and filling the rest of the arena with darkness. The crimson hues float over the entryway and ramp, absorbed by the somewhat blank canvas of the squared circle. Suddenly the tranquil and quiet ambiance in the arena is poisoned by the sound of "Pulse of the Maggots" by Slipknot which rumbles onto the P.A. system. The aforementioned arena is quickly filled with boos and a few harsh audible obscenities as the curtains begin to sway ever so slightly. As most eyes feast themselves upon the said commotion at the entryway, the appearance of Zack Lifer from up in the cheap seats - his hands in the pockets in front of him as he took each step quickly down the stairs. Behind him is the shadowy figure of the returning Ryuji Kamigawa, looking extremely angsty to destroy his opponents. A sudden increase in the crowd's negative uproar signaled the emergence of CHRISTUM FUROR and the other half of their negative attention was on the shoulders of the misunderstood genius Zack Lifer as he made his way through his normal routine.

David Zinkus: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is our MAIN EVENT ten man lucha rules tag team match. Introducing first, TEAM FRAGGLE ROCK!!!


The velvet curtains are ruffled from their suspension with the brushing of white hockey-tape covered hands. Magnus is revealed to the bitter masses of humanity with a pair of black knee pads and boots, along with a pair of denim shorts and a Screaming Trees T-shirt, half soaked with water that drips from his jet black hair which hangs over his shoulders. Gunner stands still and tall at the apex of the ramp while Lifer nears the barricade. Gunner runs his fingers through his hair while his head hangs askew whilst he poses in the crucifix. Finally, Christum Furor begins to march down the aisle, removing his shirt and carelessly tossing it to the floor in the process as he proceeds to walk with a slow, methodical, fatigued-appearing amble, with his shoulders relaxed and arms dangling loosely, his weight shifting from foot to foot to cause him to somewhat sway - idiosyncrasies that go unmatched yet unnoticed to the untrained eye.


The lights in the arena completely go black, save for a few lights around the stage when a bass pulse begins to start. A drum beat starts to kick in when you can see the stage light up in blacklight along with smoke. The song keeps continuing to be built up, but you can see emerging from the smoke different people. The crowd knows who it is and begins to erupt.

First comes World Champion Zero McHannon, wearing a sleeveless "Team PupNSuds" t-shirt, World Title draped along his shoulder as he comes out slowly.

Next comes Andreas Lasiewicz, easily able to be seen by his hair and the swinging of his trademark baton.

Out emerges Chris Strike, an intense look on his face...quickly followed by the team of Fiona Rourke and Jonathan Collins: Project Mayhem. At this point, the fans can recognize the song as "Can't Kill Us" by The Glitch Mob, leading the crowd to erupt as the five stand there side by side. As soon as the song builds to its crescendo and the beat drops, the lights flash bright and the five start to walk slowly down to the ring! The whole quintet is ready for action, and you can see by the look in their eyes, they're completely prepared.

David Zinkus: And their opponents...Team Pup 'N Suds!

The camera catches Zero McHannon pumping his fist that his suggestion came to be chosen, and the other four look at him with a shake of their head before they start to make their way around the ring, slapping a few hands before climbing in, starting to look at the audience, who has just erupted by throwing mountains of streamers into the ring for these five stars! Collins immediately drops to a knee and removes the half mask he was wearing to show that he has completely painted the lower half of his face with paint to make it look like a war torn Terminator unit. With his partners gesturing to the crowd and entering the ring in their traditional fashion, they stand with Collins as the group looks unafraid to confront their opponents.

Dick Morosi: This is easily one of the biggest matches in history, and would you look at the all-star line up Jonathan Collins and company make up!

Seth Ericson: Again, those other five have been equally prolific, but here it is, there's a lot of tension and animosity here and it's coming to light!

Dick Morosi: That animosity is about to get a bit of a boost as the first two to go at it in this match is Zack Lifer and Andreas Lasiewicz.

Seth Ericson: Think that was by accident?

Dick Morosi: Not even a little and here’s the bell.

The moment the bell sounds, the two hated rivals grapple in the ring. The larger Lasiewicz is able to get the upper hand and send Zack Lifer into the ropes, who quickly grabs on to them. The two stare at each other for a moment again.

Seth Ericson: You could cut the tension between these two with a knife. Both of them giving very distinct looks of hatred towards each other.

Dick Morosi: Lifer is making the first move.

Zack Lifer attempts a lariat, but Andreas is able to sidestep it. He then locks behind Lifer for a German Suplex, but Lifer wiggles free. Lifer throws a kick, but Andreas catches it. Lifer throws his other leg in an enzugiri attempt, but Lasiewicz ducks. Lasiewicz aims to take advantage of Lifer’s moment of balance disruption to land a bulldog and finally the first successful move of the match is landed. Shortly after, the second is, but this time, it is Lifer who successfully lands a dropkick as soon as he got back on his feet.

Dick Morosi: These two are so evenly matched, it’s not even funny.

Seth Ericson: It’s downright scary in my opinion.

Lasiewicz is back up and immediately takes down Zack Lifer like a football player. He starts throwing violent lefts and rights with Brian Lowery counting to ten.

Seth Ericson: I don’t think that dropkick sat well with Lasie.

Dick Morosi: You think?

Lasiewicz bounces off the ropes and lands a jumping knee drop to the midsection of Zack Lifer. He hits a few stomps on the downed International Champion. Lasiewicz gets Lifer back to his feet, who quickly decides he’s had enough and rolls out of the ring. Lasiewicz reaches to grab Zack Lifer from the inside, but he is quickly struck from behind by Magnus Gunner.

Dick Morosi: Remember guys, this match is under Lucha rules where if a competitor leaves the ring, a partner can enter the ring as effective as a tag. Magnus Gunner is now the legal man in the match for Team Fraggle Rock.

Gunner tosses Lasiewicz into the Fraggle Rock corner and starts landing strikes similar to what Lasie hit on Zack Lifer. He finishes off with his tenth strike with a huge knee strike to the gut. Tag to Jerry Matthews, who puts Lasiewicz on the top rope.

Seth Ericson: This doesn’t look good for the Morning Star.

Jerry Matthews gets on the top rope with him BUT LASIEWICZ shoves him off!! The fans go nuts as a sign of life for Team Pup ‘n Suds emerges! Lasiewicz looks down at Matthews and hits a move that he does not do very often.

Dick Morosi: A rare moonsault by Andreas Lasiewicz. And wow did it look good.

Seth Ericson: And Lasie is gonna roll out of the ring now to catch his breath and let someone else in.

Dick Morosi: He started the match and fought three different wrestlers. He deserves it.

The World Champion of EXODUS Pro Wrestling enters the ring to replace Lasiewicz. Jerry Matthews is finally coming around, only to be struck in the face by the foot of Zero McHannon. Magnus Gunner is able to get Zero’s attention for a moment with a few inaudible comments which allows Jerry Matthews to get back up and land a German Suplex on Zero McHannon.

Seth Ericson: Magnus Gunner is playing Hannibal Lector on the apron over there.

Jerry Matthews follows up with a backbreaker on the World Champion. Tag to Kamigawa. As soon as Zero McHannon gets back to his feet, he is double powerbombed by the two large powerhouses. Cover by Ryuji.

ONE!!


TWO!!


THR…NO!!

The pinfall is quickly broken up by Jonathan Collins. This causes Magnus Gunner to step into the ring. And then Fiona Rourke. Then Jerry Matthews…Andreas Lasiewicz…Zack Lifer then Chris Strike and Brett Sands!

Dick Morosi: Pandemonium incoming!

Seth Ericson: All ten are in the ring! The referee has lost complete control of the match!!

Collins is brawling with Gunner. Rourke is brawling with Matthews as well as Lifer and Lasiewicz, Sands and Strike, and Kamigawa and Zero. Zero is able to toss Kamigawa out of the ring. Brett Sands is attempting to fight off a very motivated Chris Strike, but quickly gets caught in a Lou Thez Press, and even taking a few extra shots than EXODUS Pro senior official Brian Lowery would have preferred him to have hit. Fiona Rourke is able to hurricanrana Jerry Matthews out of the ring, while Jonathan Collins plants Magnus Gunner in the center of the ring with his End of Silence signature, giving Fiona a chance to quickly get aerial to complete the Silent Tide combination they two have perfected.

Seth Ericson: Pandemonium seems to favor Pup n’ Suds…or, well it did.

Dick Morosi: I think Andreas Lasiewicz has been busted open by a Forced Suicide from the top rope by Zack Lifer. Lasiewicz is down.

One of the Godfathers is lying on his back with a river of red running across his face, completely motionless. Jonathan Collins quickly gets Lasiewicz out of the ring to make sure he won’t be pinned and safely away from all the action for the moment. Gunner is back up and clotheslines Chris Strike out of the ring. He then turns around to counter a Fiona Rourke charge into a snapmare driver. Magnus Gunner is then struck from behind by Zero McHannon and the two pay-per-view opponents begin to trade strikes until the exchange is broken up by a cheap shot to the back of the knee by Brett Sands. Sands, with a confident if not cocky demeanor, turns over Zero McHannon and shouts at him how he is nothing. Gunner attempts a pin on Zero, something that seems to rub off the wrong way on Brett Sands, who shakes his head and exits the ring, walking towards the ramp. Zero kicks out before the ref even gets to one.

Seth Ericson: What the hell is this?

Dick Morosi: Brett Sands is apparently leaving the match. With Lasiewicz still down for the moment, it would make it four on four.

Seth Ericson: Where do you think you’re going, Sands?!

Dick Morosi: He has a visitor on the top of the ramp who is probably asking the same question.

Jaime Alejandro is standing on the top of the ramp with a baseball bat, which causes Brett Sands to stop dead in his tracks.

Seth Ericson: So if you were Brett, would you go back to the ring where you have Jonathan Collins, Fiona Rourke, Andreas Lasiewicz, Zero McHannon, and Chris Strike but have Gods and Monsters and Jerry Matthews on your side or cross a huge Puerto Rican with a baseball bat?

Dick Morosi: I don’t think he’s going to have a chance to answer that question. Fiona Rourke is right behind him.

Jaime nods to Fiona. Brett turns around and is laid out by a Shinigami from the EXODUS Pro legend.

Seth Ericson: Ouch! Well, as you were saying, this is essentially four on four now, right?

Dick Morosi: He’s not getting up anytime soon.

Magnus Gunner has taken Zero McHannon to the outside of the ring, allowing Ryuji Kamigawa and Jonathan Collins to enter the ring to be the legal men for the time being. Mongolian Chop from Kamigawa. Collins attempts to respond to it with a certain backfist we all know and love as a surprise with the other yet not broken hand, but Kamigawa ducks and flips the Saint of Violence over his head. Kamigawa backs into the ropes to get a running start, but Fiona Rourke grabs his ankle to stop him. By the time Kamigawa can do anything about it, Collins rolls up Kamigawa.

Seth Ericson: Roll up! This could be it!

Dick Morosi: Lowery with the count!


ONE!!



TWO!!


THR…NO!!

Kamigawa is able to shift his weight and momentum to flip himself over to get his shoulders off the mat. Kamigawa is back to his feet as everyone is briefly distracted by something going on outside the ring.

Seth Ericson: Zero McHannon is thrown into the barricade by Magnus Gunner! And now into the stairs! Wow, this is awesome!!

Dick Morosi: This match has been action packed, to say the least. Chris Strike just ran into the ring and is running towards this…

Seth Ericson: He’s got lift off!!

Dick Morosi: Tope Con Hilo! Wow, he hit Gunner and EVEN Zero with that move!!

Seth Ericson: And Strike seems to be in the best shape after that move as he is moving a little bit and the other two are not.

Dick Morosi: Back in the ring, Collins has tagged in Rourke and it’s not looking good for Kamigawa as the two look like they are…ouch!

Seth Ericson: Yeah, I never want to be hit by that team move. Which one was that one again?

Dick Morosi: The Paper Street Incident. Fight Club?

Seth Ericson: OH YEAH!! Oh, Rourke has the cover!!

ONE!!



TWO!!!


THR…NO!!

Jerry Matthews drags her off Kamigawa to stop the count. He quickly suplexes her out of the ring. Collins isn’t going to put up with this as enters the ring only to exit as he tackles Jerry Matthews out of the ring. Most of the time, it takes a moment for action to happen between two people to take place after a ring exit like that, but that’s not the case as Collins immediately throws Matthews into the same stairs Gunner threw Zero into earlier.

Seth Ericson: Collins angry!

Dick Morosi: I think he’s sick of seeing Jerry hurt the people he loves.

Seth Ericson: I didn’t say he didn’t have a good reason to be angry.

Something that will enrage Collins even more takes place seconds after that as PDW wrestle Brandon Banks hops over a rail and sprints right for the still-down Andreas Lasiewicz. Banks almost gets to Lasiewicz when he runs into the arms of a certain inactive wrestling director.

Seth Ericson: Brandon Banks is going for…OMEGA-16 by JONATHAN COLLINS…

Dick Morosi: Well, it almost was until Zack Lifer got in there.

Brandon Banks and Lifer then sends the Saint of Violence to barricade. Fiona Rourke sprints over there to help Jonathan against the two-on-one attack as Kamigawa is starting to get back to his feet in the ring where he believes himself to be alone…but he isn’t…

Dick Morosi:Kamigawa is getting up but Chris Strike is standing right behind him.

Seth Ericson: Don’t turn around, Ryuji!!

Dick Morosi: Too late!!

Chris Strike takes Kamigawa down with a Narukami in the center of the ring. The fans go absolutely nuts as one of the World Title number one contenders hooks the leg.

ONE!!



TWO!!!




THREE!!!

DING DING DING!!

David Zinkus: Here are your winners…TEAM PUP ‘N SUDS!!

WINNERS: COLLINS/LASIEWICZ/MCHANNON/ROURKE/STRIKE