Battle Without Honor or Humanity

Dark Match
Shinji Uchikawa/The Chapel Show/Angry Pete vs. Spirit Z/Parker Wayde/Chris Marks/Daniel Forsythe

The dark match was a complete showcase for Shinji Uchikawa and Lexy Chapel. From the moment the bell rang, the opposing team found itself under a constant mixture of attacks, high-octane power from Shinji, while Lexy dazzled the crowd and confused and battered her opponents with her speed and agility. The two showed great chemistry, with each one tagging the other in just as their opponents got used to them, keeping them off balance. During the match there was a constant, intense "Shinji Gon' Kill You!" chant started by the #SectionB fans in attendance in Japan, that got quite over with the crowd in Shinji's home country. The match came to an end when Lexy hit Parker with the Social Distortion...but only after kicking Chris Marks in the dick. Again. The crowd loved it.

WINNERS: Shinji Uchikawa/The Chapel Show/Angry Pete



The feed opens up to a courtroom. We see a judge and bailiff in their rightful, appropriate areas and positions as a collection of people flock into the room - the jurors.

The Bailiff: All rise now for the verdict.

The gathering of humanity seated in the benches behind the accused come to a stand, the jurors navigate to their appropriate station and all of them take a seat. The camera moves across the room, and at a table sits two men. The former has his hair slicked, a pair of expensive frames, matching jacket, slacks and a tie with a plain white shirt. Next to him, the latter - wearing a G&M T-shirt, a greasy suit jacket, and black pants with his signature burlap sack which covers his countenance to cap off the ensemble. The man in glasses whispers into Christum Furor's ear, and it is clear that it is his lawyer who is no doubt giving his client some last minute legal consultation.

The Bailiff: You may be seated now.

Everyone obliges, taking their seats as they were ordered to while the judge's attention is now focused in the direction of the accused, and his legal representative. He scrutinizes the madman who merely stares back coldly through the holes in his mask at the appointed arbitrator that holds his fate. The honorable magistrate takes a deep breath and furrows his brow as he prepares himself to move forward with the sentencing.

The Judge: Would Mr. Christum Furor please rise.

The man rechristened as "Christ Madness" rises to a vertical base as his lawyer follows suit.

The Judge: Mr. Furor, you are fully aware of the offenses that you have been charged with. How do you plead?

Magnus Gunner looks over both shoulders at the audience in attendance. There's a look of disdain and disgust in the eyes of almost everyone there to witness his sentencing. He hisses his discontent, then looks at his hands with a deep rooted fascination; they are the tools, and more importantly the weapons that have gotten him into this perilous predicament.

Christum Furor: Love the sin but hate the sinner. You homo sapiens remove your rose-tinted glasses but reject the chaos theory which inevitably causes the paradox that is your pathetic existence. You have this love, and this hope of what people can be but you swallow the bitter pill of who we really are on a daily basis. You want to believe that people are created equal, but they're not. Equality can only be reached through chaos.

The eloquent madman surveys the crowd which fights back the urge of voicing their inhospitable hatred.

Christum Furor: I plead guilty, guilty of being ahead of the curve, guilty of celebrating the dynamism of insanity, the energy and destructive force of modern inventions and human nature. I am guilty of perusing a hectic, deafening chaos, a world that destroys the old morality, the old society, the outmoded human product. I am guilty of seeing the cycle of death and the potential to rebuild from the ruins as I entangle with forces outside your comprehension with electric power and kinetic force.

His voice rises in decibel level, and his tone becomes militant and belligerent.

Christum Furor: I plead GUILTY... Guilty of trying to create a world that totally negates EVERYTHING that existed before it through riot destruction, defiance and confusion - and the role of chance, not as an extension of the scope of art, but as a fundamental principle of dissolution and anarchy. And I have taken THAT chance. I plead guilty you degenerate monkey for trying to create a world where disorder IS order, where pandemonium and bedlam govern society, where I am God. I am guilty, guilty of trying to destroy the world we know, a world ruled by corruption - and guilty of trying to replace it with a PERFECT world... MY NEW AGE!

The audience riots, voicing their displeasure and disdain to the villain's delight. The tumultuous patrons climb to their feet to shout obscenities and insults, but it all deflects off of his austere presence.

The Judge: ORDER! ORDER IN THE COURT!

The judge bangs his gavel, and exhibits his power over his dominion as the room settles down.

The Judge: Now... what has the jury decided?

One juror stands, glaring at the madman before looking down at a sheet of paper in his hand.

The Juror: We wholeheartedly confirm that one Christum Furor is guilty of the following charges: Multiple acts of terrorism, multiple counts of terroristic threats, including a death threat against the life of professional wrestling. Multiple counts of vandalism. Multiple counts of assault and battery. One count of cultism. Multiple accounts of aggravated assault and use of deadly force. One count of murder on September 22nd, 2013. Conspiracy for assault. Multiple counts of terroristic conspiracy. Multiple counts of violence at a company called "EXODUS" accompanied with premeditated assault and acts of maiming and or injury and paralysis. Multiple counts of public endangerment, public vulgarity and disturbing the peace. Multiple cases of assault in all three degrees. Multiple counts of causing physical and emotional trauma. Multiple counts of bribery and brainwashing.

The Juror takes a deep breath as Gunner applauds, much to the dismay if his lawyer and the chagrin of the courtroom.

The Juror: And lastly, one count of being a terrible human being.

Magnus sits as the jurors shake their heads with disgust.

The Judge: Then by the powers granted to and vested in me by the US Legal System, I hereby sentence one Christum Furor to a Battle Without Honor or Humanity. Now, would the guilty party like to say anything else before this case is closed?

Gunner rises from his seat and removes the burlap sack from his head to reveal the utter look of dementia on his visage.

Christum Furor: All Will Be Hell!

As the sociopath's final sentiment looms in the atmosphere he slowly outstretches his arms in his trademark crucifix pose.

The Judge: Court is now adjourned.

The teaming masses rejoice and fly out of the courtroom as the picture fades and we cut back to Dick and Seth.

Dick Morosi: That has to be a most chilling way to open up the show.

Seth Ericson: Dick, typically anything involving Magnus Gunner tends to run that way.

Dick Morosi: I hear we've got more going on in the back though, let's take a look.

We leave the ringside area, finding ourselves in a dark, candlelit room. These candles adorn a small coffee table in the middle of the room, illuminating a single, melancholic figure that is sat down on a brown, leather armchair. He is still dressed in his casual attire, a crisp white shirt and jeans. His head is in his hands, his breathing slow and purposeful.

Sarah Hartley: What have I told you about brooding?

Andreas looked up, a glimpse of life in those sorrowful eyes of his as he looked up to see the elegance and beauty of his girlfriend, Sarah Hartley. She looked simply amazing, dressed to the nines in a wonderfully crafted sparkling golden dress. A warm smile was upon her face, one that was only heightened by the candle light.

Andreas Lasiewicz: I feel that in this situation, brooding is acceptable…

Sarah Hartley: Darling, shouldn’t you be getting ready for your match? I’m pretty sure that I heard the show kicking off.

Andreas Lasiewicz: I’m just… collecting my thoughts…

Andreas’ head lowered once more, his better half pacing towards him and resting a comforting hand upon his shoulder.

Sarah Hartley: You are worrying too much. Everything is going to be fine. Nerves in big match situations are normal. You know that. You’ll be fine.

Andreas Lasiewicz: It is not the match that concerns me… It is what comes after it…

Sarah Hartley: What do you mean?

Andreas Lasiewicz: What if I don’t come back…?

She wrapped her arms around the man that seemed to be grieving, the worry upon his face obvious.

Sarah Hartley: We’ve gone over this, Andreas. I know what you have to do, I know what lengths you have to go to. Once the dust is settled, everything will just fall into place.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Last time I did this… everything went to ruin…

He looked up to her, his face a portrait of despair. That smile didn’t leave her face as she tried to encourage her man before he went out to battle for it all.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Maybe they are right… Maybe they are all right. Maybe I am just a monster…

Sarah Hartley: You’re not… Trust me.

Andreas Lasiewicz: You’ll be there, right? At the end?

Sarah Hartley: I’ll be at the front row. And I’ll be right back here afterwards.

He kissed her gently, his mood lightening due to her presense.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Thank you…

Sarah Hartley: No need to thank me. I want to be here.

Lady Magdalena: Sorry to interrupt you two love birds. It’s time.

The pair of them looked up, seeing Lasiewicz’s younger sister stroll into the room dressed fabulously in an over the top oriental dress. Her hair was a little wild and crazy, though her demeanour was cool and her Parisian accent polite.

Sarah Hartley:Areet, Mags!

Lady Magdalena:Bonjour, Sarah. Would you like me to escort you to your seat?

Hartley pecked Andreas on the forehead, before exiting out of sight. Magdalena nodded to her brother, quite unsure what to say before turning to leave as well.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Little Bird… a moment…

The Fair Lady paused in her movements, slightly hesitating as she did so. She turned reluctantly, expecting the worst.

Andreas Lasiewicz: If all else fails… You know what to do…

Lady Magdalena: I’m not doing it!

Magdalena folded her arms, shaking her head in the direction of her older brother. It was unclear what he was asking for, but she surely then. As Andreas spoke again, you could sense the anger brewing within him.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Breaking yet another promise, dear sister?

Lady Magdalena: Andreas… I just can’t do that!

Andreas Lasiewicz: Don’t you feel that you should start being the ‘Third Eagle’ again, as opposed from being the ‘Third Wheel’.

A tear developed in her eye, one that she wiped away quickly with the back of her hand, smudging her expertly applied make-up as she did so.

Lady Magdalena: That was uncalled for…

Andreas Lasiewicz: All my actions tonight will be uncalled for… Tis the way of the world…

Mags nodded, a little distressed. She turned dramatically to exit the room. Andreas returned to his thoughts, blowing out the candles as he did so. The screen was completely black; all that could be heard was the breath of the ‘Morning Star’.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Koniec jest początkiem jest koniec ...

After that last sentence, two dots appeared in the centre of the screen. One golden, the other crimson. Then they vanished without a trace as we switched to another area backstage, where we're greeted by the sight of four people...

The first is the easily recognized Shinji Uchikawa, still dressed in his gear from the pre-show match he was in earlier in the night. Behind him stands Jonathan Collins.

The second is another Japanese man, with medium length dark hair. Behind him stands the familiar Papa Arino.

Third in line is a woman with long brown hair, dressed in a light hooded sweatshirt. Behind her is Jaime Alejandro, dressed in his gear for his impending match with Brett Sands.

And fourth is a young man, dressed in a suit with blonde hair. There is nobody standing behind him, but he does have a smirk on his face.

In from the left side of the screen walks...White Phoenix. The appointed Commissioner of (R)Evolution Wrestling looks to Jonathan Collins, then Papa, then Jaime, nodding at each before turning to the camera.

White Phoenix: Before you stand four of the top students of the most recent class of the (R)Evolution Dojo. Each has proven themselves worthy, both in the ring and out, of their presence here tonight. In one month...we'll be having the first event for (R)Evolution Wrestling...complete with the first round of a tournament to crown our first champion. These four, the peak participants of the class, were chosen by a panel of trainers and guests, to receive a first round bye in that tournament.

He motions to Shinji.

White Phoenix: Shinji Uchikawa has already made quite an impression in EXODUS. In his time in our development camp, he has proven to have great work ethic, and a continued desire to improve himself.

Taking a step, Phoenix is now in front of the second man.

White Phoenix: A student of Papa Arino, Shozo has shown the discipline required of Arino's greatest students. His heart and mind are one with his body, and he has excelled in our training sessions.

Another step, and on to the third; the only woman of the group.

White Phoenix: Devan Whitmore has traveled the independent circuit, and now finds herself under the tutelage of Jaime Alejandro. Her love of professional wrestling is undeterred, and her thirst for knowledge is unequaled.

Finally he steps up to the last man in line...the suited, blonde man.

White Phoenix: Brando Martial, despite his...brash attitude...has proven quite possibly the best in-ring wrestler in the training sessions. His charisma is undeniable, his talent is equal to that of our best students.

He takes a step back, taking center stage.

White Phoenix: In a few short hours, the remaining eight competitors will be named. However, these four, as they stand, will meet in a tag team contest. Also, we will be providing the semi-finals of a Tag Team Title Tournament. This is the future of EXODUS. This is the future of professional wrestling. Welcome...to (R)Evolution Wrestling.

And with that, we cut back to Dick and Seth.

Dick Morosi: (R)Evolution Wrestling is the next step for promising EXODUS stars. Shinji Uchikawa will be featured heavily on the program, which you can stream live at EXODUSPro.com when it airs! You never know, we may even end up Gaora if we're lucky!

Seth Ericson: Let's not kid ourselves, Dick.

Dick Morosi: Stranger things, my friend. For now, we have a huge match to open the show! It's a semifinal for the Honor Cup! The San Diego Bay Title is up for grabs when Jimmy Riley defends against Fiona Rourke, Savannah Taylor, and Kira T. Zeppeli...let's go to the ring!



David Zinkus: The following contest is an Honor Cup Semi-Final Match and is scheduled for one fall with a thirty-minute time limit!

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 EXOTron 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 opponents and the match to start.

Dick Morosi: This could very well be the favorite in this match. He’s got wins over Sally Talfourd and Fiona Rourke, has been a San Diego Bay Champion, and has the shroud of G&M giving him utmost confidence.

Seth Ericson: And imaging the scene should he win. Nothing but misery and misfortune, basically a Chinese Buffet if you’ve ever been to one. Have you SEEN the portions? Terrible, just terrible.

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.



David Zinkus: Introducing next, from Las Vegas, Nevada, she is the “Las Vegas Siren”... SAVANNAH TAYLOR!

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 casually walks down the aisle.



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.

Seth Ericson: I’m the leader of the Savannah Taylor fan club. I’m the king of THAT bandwagon. Damn, she’d look mighty fine holding the Honor Cup Trophy at the end of the night.

Dick Morosi: Just want you to know kissing up to her won’t get you her number. A restraining order, yeah.

Seth Ericson: That’s fine, I know a good lawyer.

The horns break into the static noise of the crowd, and more than a fair share of the audience rises to their feet, boos beginning to sprinkle down in the arena. The lights have dimmed, but haven't gone completely out, as a single spotlight rests on the curtain. After mere seconds, Jay-Z's voice can be heard, heralding the Death of Auto-Tune;



Jimmy Riley bursts through the curtain, his steps driven, his hoodie half-zipped, and his face almost stoic. His arms shoot out to the sides as he soaks in the reaction for a moment on the stage before beginning a somewhat slow walk down the aisle.



Reaching ringside, Jimmy walks around to the far side of the ring, hoisting himself up to the apron. After looking out at the crowd, Riley nods at David Zinkus, then climbs up to the second rope, still on the outside of the ring.

David Zinkus: Now entering the ring, from Cleveland, Ohio...now residing in San Diego, California! Weighing in at two-hundred forty-five pounds! This is “THE RISING STAR”...JIMMY...RILEY!



Jimmy hops down into the ring, walking to each side while his mouth moves almost non-stop. As he reaches the final side of the ring, he removes his hoodie, tossing it to the floor and leaning into his corner.

Dick Morosi: A 2-1 effort in his block, winning it outright and capturing the San Diego Bay Championship. For a man who believes he’s underachieved and been overshadowed by others in his career he’s had quite the start to the year.

Seth Ericson: One I envy. He’s got the look, the girl, and the attitude. That’s a star right there Dick, a star if I’ve ever seen one!

The crowd starts to stir as lights go dim and familiar sounds start before drums kick in!

Are you rr--rrr-rready?
Are you rr--rrr-rready?
LET'S GO!

Dick Morosi: And speaking of stars...

Suddenly, the lights go purple and white around the arena as "One for the Money" by Escape the Fate starts to play and the smoke around the entrance way means only one person!

David Zinkus: Now coming down the aisle...FROM PORTLANDIA...SHE IS THE HEC WOMENS CHAMPION, AND THE STARDUST SERAPH, FIONAAAAAAAAA ROURKE!



Standing at the entrance way, Fiona Rourke starts to look out at the crowd in her gear and a black hoodie with her Shinigami logo on it. Nodding her head to the beat, she finally gives a small grin as she runs to one side of the stage to look at her fans before jogging to the other side to look out for them and salute. Finally, getting back to the center of the stage, she starts crouching down, hood still over her head all as the song plays.



As soon as the chorus begins, she springs to her feet, holding one finger up as lead singer Craig Mabbitt shouts "ONE!" over the PA System. Holding up two fingers in time with the song, she starts to walk down the ramp with a purpose. At three, she starts holding up three fingers, encouraging the fans to sing along and count with the song. Glancing at a young fan, she nods and touches foreheads with them as she pulls off a glow necklace from her neck and gives it to the fan. As the chorus repeats, she flips off the hood and hops up onto the apron. Once she looks out and surveys the crowd, she turns to face the ring before springboarding over the top rope, flipping over it and landing down on her knee, hand touching the mat as if she landed like a superhero! Quickly heading to a corner, she climbs up and once again holds up one finger to the air to get the crowd into everything. Looking back at the people in the ring, Fiona starts to remove her hoodie and look ready as she mentally prepares herself for the match.

Dick Morosi: The Ace of EXODUS, the newly dubbed Stardust Seraph, current HEC Womens Champion, a former International and World Champion. She’s taken the wrestling by storm and is one of the EXODUS originals that paved the way for some of our younger stars and definitely put the company on the map. Victories over the likes of Johnny Cannon, of Magnus Gunner, Jerry Matthews, has turned back LEGION, and every other obstacle. Will she recapture her glory tonight?

Seth Ericson: She better or all that hype you just built up for her will be all for nothing.

The stage was set, the four superstars stood in their corners as those packing Korakuen Hall chimed, chirmed and buzzed in anticipation for a high octane contest. The four of them were battling for an opportunity to get into the Honor Cup Finals, and more importantly, a chance at competing for superstardom. For Jimmy Riley it meant redemption. For Kira Zeppeli it all was about vanquishing his foes and feasting on the anguish that would come because of it. For Savannah Taylor it was her golden ticket to the promised land, where she could prove to the EXODUS faithful and the best wrestling crowd in the world that she wasn’t all looks. And for Fiona Rourke, this was the second phase of her long journey back to the World Title, back to Main Eventing, and back to solidifying her position as the ACE of the company. The tension in the arena was completely palpable, and all four of them were almost jumping out of their skin as they awaited the first move.

Dick Morosi: This is it Seth; these four competitors have made it to Battle Without Honor and Humanity. They’ve survived this long, outlasted all the others that started off this quest, and now a trip to the Honor Cup Finals hangs in the balance in what should be an instant classic.

Seth Ericson: Thanks for pointing out the obvious Dick; what I want to know is which one of these four is going to have anything left when they take on the International Champion. That one will be for all the marbles.

Dick Morosi: I don’t think they’re worried about that Seth, they’re too focused on the here and now. Jimmy has the most experience of the bunch. Savannah has the advantage of being cunning and unpredictable. Kira is a monster and has been a wrecking ball of destruction since he first stepped foot in the company. Yet there’s no overlooking The Stardust Seraph, the former World Champion with the best win/loss record of the past year.

Seth Ericson: Dan Arnouil just gave the signal, that’s the bell Dick! It’s time to nut up or shut up for these four!

*DING! DING! DING!

Fearlessly, Kira charges across the ring towards Fiona; the Seraph dodges with a quick side-step, then extends her arm out and catches the mysterious brawler by the left hand before turning inwards of her body to bring him down with an Arm Drag which she floats over into an armbar. With the battle now underway the Las Vegas Siren is left anticipating Riley’s attack, yet is unable to stop the kick that crashes right into her chest and sends her backpedaling several feet into the ropes. Jimmy, expecting her return, clasps his arms around her body as she rebounds back to him, using the momentum to flip her into the air and back down to the canvas with a Tilt-A-Whirl Slam. The Risen Star immediately goes for the pin, however Taylor was having none of it, wriggling free from his clutches and proving to be deceptively elusive. She rolls away following a series of stomps to the midsection, then slides out of the ring to recover.

Dick Morosi: And Savannah has been disposed for the foreseeable future.

Seth Ericson: She’ll have plenty of time to fix her mascara now, because it’s running, and pretty badly at that. And Prince Kamijo once again retains his title as the Undisputed Champion of wrestling while wearing Cover Girl makeup.

Meanwhile, Kira had regained his stance and he and Fiona were engaged in a punching spree. Furious flurries of haymakers, forearms, elbows and Flair chops flying every which way, the crowd going crazy in response. Zeppeli gets the upper hand with a nice forearm shiver, then connects with a back elbow to take out Jimmy Riley just as he tried to interrupt - then returns to floor Fiona with a stiff Clothesline that almost takes the former World Champ’s head clean off her shoulders. Having gained control in the early goings, Kira focuses his attention on the downed Riley. He lifts him up to a vertical base just to plant a knee into his solar plexus, then a second, and finally a third to expel the air from his lungs. The former San Diego Bay champion follows up with a brutal forearm to the jaw, but Jimmy shakes it off to retaliate with a stiff left, right combination that staggers his adversary. The Ohioan quickly connects with a European Uppercut to further force the issue.

He lands another, making Kira retreat even further, now nearing the ropes. Zeppeli throws his hands up, trying to block or parry what is being thrown in his direction. He manages to catch Riley’s forearm, parrying it to the left, giving himself a window of opportunity which he takes full advantage of. He swings a blind right hand, connecting on the right side of Jimmy’s jaw, sending the Ohioan staggering back. Shaking the cobwebs, Kira regains his vision in time to grasp a hold of his foe and launch him into the nearby corner. He charges in like a train off the rails, but Jimmy has sense enough to get out of dodge as he circumvents the attack - Zeppeli impinges the turnbuckle with a resounding thud. With his chest caved in, G&M’s mysterious despair feeder turns around - playing right into Fiona’s hands. Picking her spot, she dashes across the ring then exhibits her athleticism to land a somersault elbow. As she moves out of the way, Riley comes in with a vile elbow of own his own that sends spit and teeth flying into the front row. While the dazed, punch-drunk Zeppeli staggers out of the corner, the two lightweights charge the ring and come off opposite ropes to take the villain down with a High Low Double Team Combination.

Dick Morosi: Project Mayhem may bring an arsenal, but The Marauders are bringing the fight here to Korakuen Hall. What chemistry and teamwork right there!

Seth Ericson: That answers the question of would we see these two work together. I’ll be taking bets now on who stabs who in the back. My money’s on Riley. The Hollywood types are always backdooring people.

Dick Morosi: You mean, backstabbing?

Seth Ericson: Either way, it’s not a pleasant feeling.

Fiona and Riley turn to each other, and the on and off tag team partners ball their fists in preparation from a strike from the other - yet their confrontation is cut prematurely as Savannah Taylor reaches into the ring to trip Rourke at the feet and drag her out. She quickly tosses The Seraph into the barricade, and marvels in the acute agony her adversary suffers through, before charging forward to maliciously drive her boot into The Seraph’s mug with a vile Yakuza Kick - the force behind the blow sends two thirds the way of the Triple Crown right over the barricade and into the crowd! Back inside the ring, Riley quickly goes for the cover on a downed and dazed Kira.

“ONE!”
“TWO!”

Seth Ericson: Close but no cigar. Question Dick, if Kira loses, won’t he be disgruntled? Does that mean he’ll you know, paw at himself like a dog?

Dick Morosi: I don’t know, but I’d reckon that sort of behavior is only suitable for Animal Planet.

Zeppeli somehow kicks out, slightly frustrating Riley who climbs to his feet. He lifts the Californian to his feet, but has his Irish Whip attempt turned on him as Kira launches him into the corner where Riley collides harshly into the unforgiving turnbuckle sternum first. Making his way into the corner, Kira quickly lifts the Ohioan onto the top turnbuckle. The former San Diego Bay Champ takes a moment to regain his breath and bearings before climbing the turnbuckles, intending to eradicate and eliminate the seasoned veteran, and of course gain sustenance from his anguish. Riley however appears to have plenty of fight in him as he repeatedly blasts his antagonist in the cranium with stiff and brutal back elbows which eventually sends the recipient of said blows crashing and burning to the mat. As Jimmy tries to stand, the Las Vegas Siren slides into the ring and immediately charges at the ropes to pull them and cause her foe to lose his balance. The Risen Star trips and crotches the turnbuckle as a consequence, before falling back into a Tree of Woe left to dangle precariously.

With a cocksure grin on her beautiful visage, Savannah dashes to the adjacent corner, blowing kisses to the crowd before charging back at Riley. From his position the world is completely topsy turvy, and the helpless Vet can only watch as Taylor propels herself into the air. While airborne, she brings her knees in, holding them in her chest and keeping them there as she remains in the atmosphere, almost defying gravity itself. As she nears the canvas, she extends her legs - her boots violently clash against Riley’s face with stupendous authority, malice and precision. The force of the incapacitating maneuver reverberates throughout Korakuen Hall as The Risen Star collapses from the turnbuckle and lands face first on the canvas.

Dick Morosi: Hesitation Dropkick! Did you hear that impact Seth? They felt that one all the way back home in San Diego. Good God!

Seth Ericson: That registered a 4.2 on the Richter Scale Dick.

Dick Morosi: Do you really think it’s wise to be making earthquake references in JAPAN of all places Seth?

Seth Ericson: Hey, if anyone has a problem with it, they can kindly message me on twitter because I will not be around to face the backlash in person. I don’t get paid for that!

The Siren crawls toward Riley’s motionless body before hooking his legs for the pin.

“ONE!”

Seth Ericson: Savannah’s on top!

“TWO!”

Kira suddenly grabs her leg and drags the Nevadan off The Risen Star before covering him himself.

Seth Ericson: OOP! Kira’s on top, they’re switching positions. It’s like the playboy mansion in here, cue the kinky monotone music!

Dick Morosi: Seth, a little professionalism, PLEASE!

“ONE!”
“TWO!”

Just before three Riley is able to roll a shoulder over to break the count. Dismayed and angered by Jimmy’s resiliency, Kira quickly climbs to his feet before lifting his opponent to a stand and immediately tossing him out of the ring. Now alone with Savannah, he looks to focus his attention on her - except he turns around to meet his fate in the form of a stiff kick to the chest. There’s another one where that came from, and a third too, but just when things seem to be pointing up for the Nevadan, Lady Luck gives her the cold shoulder as Kira catches the leg then pulls her in to float her over into a Capture Suplex. The ring quakes slightly from the impact as Savannah lands supinely with a thud. While Taylor lies on the canvas holding her back, Kira quickly scrambles to his feet to drop a knee on the aforementioned area, after which he follows up with a vile kick to the ribcage which leaves her convulsing in pain. He admires her traumatized state, and throws his arms in the air to rejoice as boos quickly fill the venue.

Seth Ericson: Kira just had what we culinary types like to call a sample. Savannah’s writhing in pain, giving him quite the tasty despair filled treat. Morsels Dick, we start with morsels and work our way UP the menu!

Dick Morosi: I was half expecting a sexiest pun or something. I’m impressed Seth, ten dollars says you can’t keep it up.

Seth Ericson: Challenge accepted!

Dick Morosi: Its a shame I must resort to such tactics to get you to call this match with a semblance of professionalism and integrity.

Meanwhile, The Stardust Seraph climbs onto the apron, unbeknownst to the mysterious madman. When the opportunity presents itself, she jumps right back into the fray by pulling herself onto the ring ropes before springboarding to leap onto a turning Zeppeli’s shoulders - only to bring him down with a dexterous Hurricanarana. Both superstars scramble back to their feet with Fiona immediately charging into the ropes; the former World Champ rebounds off of them, then runs straight at Kira who lifts her up in a Tilt-A-Whirl, only to see The Seraph exploit the momentum and display her uncanny body control to spin around to apply a front facelock and drop her nemesis with a brilliant DDT. Zeppeli immediately rolls out of the ring following the maneuver, as he drops to the floor to try and overcome his head trauma. Fiona triumphantly comes to a stand, receiving a round of applause from the crowd, with a number of “Seraph” chants mixed in for good measure.

Before she can continue her celebration, Savannah Taylor reminds her that she needs to have eyes in the back of her head. The Nevadan quickly clubs her over the back of her skull, then turns her into the ropes to lay into her with a series of forearms and elbows before pulling her off the ropes. Fiona strafes to block the Irish Whip, turning back to land a sickening elbow smash, followed by a palm strike to the chest that stops Taylor’s heart, leaving her helpless to absorb a Dropsault that sends her falling through the ropes and out of the ring. Having scored with her trademark combination known as “Clear Eyes, Full Heart, Can’t Lose”, Fiona begins to hype herself up, and looks to feed off the energy of everyone in attendance as she repeatedly claps to further rile up the audience. They follow suit to showcase their exuberance, and support while Taylor and Zeppeli slowly begin to stir and come to a stand on the outside. Fiona jogs to the adjacent set of ropes. After a brief delay she quickly runs forward, then gracefully and effortlessly somersaults over the ropes to land on both her opponents - effectively taking the Nevadan and the Californian out in one fell swoop.

Dick Morosi: Fiona is hungry, she’s determined, and she’s got Korakuen Hall in the palm of her hands. Listen to this ovation!

Seth Ericson: It’s hard not to love her when she’s doing stuff like THAT! What a Tope Con Hilo!

On the other side of the ring, Jimmy Riley has his sights set on his surroundings once again, unaware that he missed the past series of events that just unfolded. Peering around from shoulder to shoulder the only thing that really seems to catch his sights is the form of the Strong Style Seraph as she lifts Savannah Taylor into the ring. Like a weasel he slithers into the squared hell, then waits for Fiona to climb onto the apron before charging and leaping onto the adjacent ropes. He leaps off into the air towards her, quickly throwing his legs out to deliver an artful Dropkick that lands flush in the kisser, sending E-Pro’s Ace flying off the apron and down to the floor below. Coming back to a stand, Riley merely grins from ear to ear, then shrugs his shoulders rather nonchalantly before locking his eyes on Savannah. With her struggling to get to a vertical base he slowly backs into the corner and pulls himself up to the top rope. Perched on the mountain’s summit, he patiently waits for the Nevadan to show her pretty face, and when she does, he dives off the top rope and lunges forward to connect with a European Uppercut taking her right back off her feet in emphatic, innovative fashion. The devastating strike leaves the seductress sprawling, prompting Riley to go for the cover as he quickly executes a lateral press.

“ONE!”
“TWO!”

Dick Morosi: Savannah’s demonstrating that resiliency. Jimmy can’t believe that wasn’t three there, and I’m finding it hard pressed to blame him.

Seth Ericson: That was a calculated risk too. He took out Fiona to try and steal the match, and now that he’s failed he’s got nobody to look after him. Dammit Riley, you should’ve milked that partnership for as long as you could then took half like my wife did.

Dick Morosi: I’m pretty sure that’s NOT how it works in the ring Seth. Exactly I’m absolutely positive.

Seth Ericson: It worked for my wife and we weren’t even legally married. Damn you Harvey Birdman.

The crowd applauds Jimmy’s offense as The Risen Star catches his breath and bearings. The Ohioan proceeds to stalk over the downed Taylor, then pulls her up to a sitting position. Riley sinks a knee into her back, then follows up with a vile kick to that same area to strip the air from the Nevadan’s lungs. Savannah helplessly rolls into the corner, looking to get some much needed breathing room from the man who’s beating her like a tired cliche. As she tries to pull herself up in the corner, Riley hastily charges in before staggering back upon receiving boots to the face for his efforts. Befuddled and disoriented, he turns around and leans over in a desperate attempt to clear the static in his vision, yet unfortunately for him he’s right where Kira T. Zeppeli needs him to be. Like a vulture picking remains, G&M’s resident enigma slides into the ring under the bottom rope, then charges forward to land a ravaging knee strike to the temple. The sickening, THUNDEROUS blow to the cranium immediately reduces Riley to a mere knee as his head hangs askew as a consequence for absorbing the barbarous attack.

Licking his chops after delivering “The Appetizer” Kira wastes no time in continuing his momentum. A seemingly concussed Jimmy Riley gives no resistance as the former San Diego Bay Champion lifts him to his feet and bends him forward against his midsection. Upon reaching around the Ohioan’s torso, Zeppeli lifts his opponent upside down before dropping down to the canvas to continue his strategy of attacking the head by thrusting The Risen Star’s skull into the mat. The Piledriver renders Riley completely indisposed, allowing the deliverer of the vicious maneuver to go for the pin and perhaps pick up the biggest win of his career to date.

“ONE!”
“TWO!”

Seth Ericson: Savannah with the save! She’s not just a dumb blonde after all.

Dick Morosi: What made you think she was one to begin with?

Seth Ericson: My cousin Ricky told me the time tested formula; the bigger the puppies, the smaller the brain and from the looks of it she’s no Albert Einstein.

Dick Morosi: You and your cousin are both imbeciles, and you owe me ten dollars. And don’t act like you don’t have the money because I know when you get paid you cheapskate.

Relieved that she had saved the match, Savannah begins to unload on Kira with stomp after stomp until the perplexing star battles his way to a knee. Angered, Taylor belts his chest with a vile shoot kick, but he merely absorbs the blow with a slight flinch. Clearly flustered, she fires another kick yet it yields the same results as Zeppeli appears to be utterly impervious. Refusing to believe what she’s witnessing, the Las Vegas Siren delivers a third sickening kick, yet this time Kira bellows like a savage beast and begins to climb to his feet to leave the Nevadan in utter disbelief. Her confusion however doesn’t last long, as she replies with a fiendish cry of her own before landing a malicious Roundhouse Kick straight to the cranium to drop her adversary right back to a knee. With no time to waste, Savannah runs the length of the ring to the ropes, then bounces off to build up a head of steam as she charges straight at her battered, and bruised foe. She steps onto Kira’s raised knee, then swings her other leg, bending her knee and blasting the degenerate straight in the face. Both bodies scatter onto the canvas following the withering blow while the crowd is completely enraptured by the turn of events.

The perfectly executed Shining Wizard flattens Zeppeli, and with every ounce of strength she can muster, Savannah Taylor lifts up to drape an arm across his body. Arnouil slides into position to make the count, and it looks like the match is all wrapped up.

“ONE!”
“TWO!”

Just as it seemed Savannah was on her way to punching her ticket into the Honor Cup Finals, Fiona Rourke comes out of NOWHERE, dropping her forearms across Taylor’s head to break up the pinfall.

Dick Morosi: Savannah was a mere second away from springboarding into the Main Event tonight Seth.

Seth Ericson: Yeah but she didn’t thanks to Fiona Rourke. And right now, I can guarantee you that two ahem, MEN are watching this match intently.

Dick Morosi: Lifer and Lasiewicz of course have their eyes glued to this very contest. One of them will be facing the winner, or what’s left of them to be exact in the Honor Cup Finals.

Seth Ericson: Actually, I was talking about Minoru and his wife, and if you’ve seen the pictures, that’s all the reason you need to never EVER go to Mexico.

All four competitors slowly begin to stir as the masses of humanity packing the arena give a standing ovation in response to what has been an incredible opening bout. The combatants retreat to opposite corners, and that’s when it hits them - the cheers, the clapping, they had put on an astounding performance thus far, but it was clear that all of them would have to search deeper for something that would put them over the top. The match had reached the twenty minute mark, and it was time to find out who wanted it more, who had enough left in their tanks to win this all important match.

Seth Ericson: The crowd is at a fever pitch, and we’ve hit that 20 minute mark. We’re coming down to the wire here Dick, and I have no idea who’s going to win. I’d have an easier time trying to make a baby after a vasectomy.

Dick Morosi: I’ll tell you who Seth - the superstar who has THAT extra gear, THAT extra reserve tank and the MOST will to win. This is about Main Eventing Battle Without Honor or Humanity. We know what the four of them have gone through to get here…well, THIS is the time where you earn your keep.

Riley looks up from a bent-over position across the ring, Kira stood opposite to him, Fiona adjacent, and Savannah opposing. Without a moment more to waste, all four competitors collide in the center of the ring, with Riley tangoing with Zeppeli and the two divas going at it like cats and dogs. The men exchange lefts and rights, the women follow suit and it’s utter pandemonium as the crowd thoroughly enjoys the slugfest taking place right in front of them. Kira and Savannah get the better of their exchanges, winning their battles in decisive fashion as they back their counterparts into the ropes thanks to a barrage of punches - with an odd elbow thrown in here and there. They both attempt Irish Whips, only to have them thwarted by their opponents who in turn send them charging into the ropes. As they rebound in stereo fashion, they come straight at their targets, both of them lunging forward with everything they’ve got. Riley and Rourke both have a counter ready; the former takes Zeppeli off his feet with a textbook Drop Toe Hold, then floats it over into the Half Boston Crab while the latter grabs one of Taylor’s flailing arms and uses it to drag her down to the canvas before quickly slapping on a Fujiwara Armbar.

Seth Ericson: SUBMISSIONS EVERYWHERE! I REPEAT… SUBMISSIONS EVERYWHERE!

Dick Morosi: What a match… Riley and Fiona are pulling out the stops here playing a game of oneupmanship if you will.

Kira screams from the torque being placed on his leg, and reaches out for anything - ropes, salvation, HUMANITY? He plants his hands into the canvas in a pushup position, and lifts his chest off the mat, releasing a strained groan. Riley leans back more, and Kira drops to the canvas. Tenacious, he pushes up once again, finding all the willpower he can muster to drag he and the two hundred and forty-five pounds that’s sitting on his back to the ropes - and he DOES get a hold of the ropes. Meanwhile, Savannah continues to yell and shriek in pain as she tries to break free from the excruciating hold by any means necessary. It doesn’t work though, as her resistance merely incites Fiona to tighten the hold further. Taylor faces the ropes, looking for some salvation. In her panicked state of mind, she finally slithers close enough to hook her foot on the bottom cable, much to Rourke’s chagrin. Anguished and exhausted, The Marauders release their victims simultaneously, dropping down to figure out their next moves while Taylor and Zeppeli tend to their fresh wounds and injured appendages.

Dick Morosi: What a sequence of events right there! I didn’t think EITHER of them could hold on, but they did. I can’t remember the last time I’ve seen something like that Seth, that was an incredible moment right there!

Seth Ericson: And it looks like we’re down to Riley and Rourke. They’re on their feet, they’re heading toward each other. This is a showdown years in the making!

The Marauders turned enemies stand toe to toe, yet unsteady on their feet. The crowd claps and cheers as hard and as loudly as they can as the two high-profile stars exchange words that are inaudible to the audience. With a nod, Riley launches into Rourke’s jaw with a sickening forearm shiver that echoes throughout Korakuen Hall, causing the former World Champion to fall back, only catching herself against the ring ropes. She rebounds, and flies in with a leaping forearm strike of her own, staggering Jimmy. She follows up with kicks to the shin and hamstrings, yet just as she’s building up a head of steam she has it stifled by a debilitating Spinning Back Elbow that almost cracks her skull right down the middle. Riley follows that with another strike, this time a ROARING ELBOW, and then he connects with “ALL The Shine” his step up enziguri that knocks the Strong Style Seraph into the ring cables. The Risen Star follows her, making sure she is still out of it as he plunges his knee into her midsection. Afterward, he grabs her arm and slingshots her across the ring. She rebounds to return fire with a basement Dropkick, taking Riley off his feet. Jimmy winces and pulls himself up to a knee, only for Rourke to slip behind him and wrap an arm around his neck, whilst grasping his opposite arm and placing it on Riley’s shoulder to lock in a close-knit Sleeperhold. She tightens the hold, and swings his head from side to side to maximize his discomfort, and the Ohioan immediately shows signs of fading.

He coughs as his eyes begin to open with a glazed look. His hands grab Fiona’s forearm that she’s using to choke him with, and digs his fingers into the arm. Rourke grunts, and loosens up the chokehold - this allows him to move his head to the arm, and sink his teeth into her. She releases a yelp, and both competitors come to a stand following Jimmy’s underhanded, and uncivilized tactic - yet Fiona continues to apply the hold. Riley rolls Fiona’s arm, releasing the sleeper, and pivots lower, turning toward her, his shoulder plunging into her waist whilst he wraps an arm around her torso to lift her up into a Fireman’s Carry.

Seth Ericson: He’s about to get on Jonathan’s Blacklist, because he’s about to execute the move that earned him the San Diego Bay Title in the first place. The Star is about to RISE… HIGHER!

Dick Morosi: Look’s like Light ‘Em Up is in the cards. Jimmy Riley finally has the perfect hand!

Riley appears moments away from the greatest victory in his EXODUS career, and stops to savor every bit of it. He cracks a supercilious smile, before finally tossing Fiona into the air. BUT SHE COUNTERS! She exploits the momentum of the throw to twist her body and somehow land straddling his shoulders. And she quickly pulls him down with a Hurricanrana, sending him crashing to the canvas and rolling out of the ring. The patrons go nuts in response to another one of her Houdini tricks as she scrambles to the her feet. She leans over the ropes, half relieved she was able to pull a rabbit out of the hat, half exhausted and enervated from the grueling contest. Wiping sweat and hair from her vision, she turns around. Only when the Strong Style Seraph peers up does she experience the sight of Kira Zeppeli’s outstretched arm come crashing across her collarbone and voice box, instantly sweeping her weight off her own feet and inducing her into vaulting to the mat with an incredibly STIFF Lariat!

Dick Morosi: Kira just turned her inside out! One more strong move like that from Zeppeli, and we could very well have our first TWO time San Diego Bay Champion for the alumni!

Kira comes jogging to a stop after sending Fiona ass-over-tea kettle, lightly leaning on the top rope in front of him and peering coldly and proudly over the audience. It appears as if the madman is well in the driver’s seat, and just a few more minutes away from having the biggest despair feast he’s ever seen. However, Savannah Taylor has other plans. She’s back on her feet, and she’s more determined than ever to score a win. She quickly sneaks up behind him, and grabs him around the legs before lifting him up to toss him over the ropes, sending him crashing unceremoniously down to the floor below. With that gesture, it just leaves her and a severely beaten Fiona Rourke. She practically loses control of all her faculties as she stalks the Rising Seraph, and the crazed look in her eyes tells it all. She has a disturbed expression on her face, one of a woman desperately trying to unseat her fellow diva as the top woman in EXODUS, if not all of professional wrestling.

When Fiona comes to she quickly turns her around and doubles her over with a toe kick, then grabs her arm and performs a top wristlock. She then steps over the captured arm, looking to prepare for the Siren’s Song, however Rourke still has some gas left in the tank and more importantly, tricks in her bag. She slithers and breaks free from Savannah’s clutches, then shoves the Nevadan into the ring cables. Flustered, Taylor turns around and charges with reckless abandon, flailing her arm in a wild Clothesline attempt - but she misses as Fiona ducks and makes a beeline for the ropes. The Strong Style Seraph handsprings into the cables, then comes back up onto her feet before bouncing into the air and spinning to swing her leg and crack the Las Vegas Siren right in the cranium, knocking her out cold on impact. Savannah’s body immediately goes limp as she lands lifelessly on her back, the crowd igniting with a roar of approval as the former World Champion scrambles to make the cover.

Dick Morosi: SHINIGAMI! SHINIGAMI! With the unforseen suddenness of thunder, as quick as it is deadly, she got ALL OF THAT! And he’s the cover!

“ONE!”

Seth Ericson: There’s Riley, he’s sliding in the ring.

“TWO”

A battle worn Jimmy Riley indeed crawls into the ring, and with every fiber in his being he dives at Fiona….

“THREE!”

…but is a second TOO late!

*DING! DING! DING!*

David Zinkus: The winner of this match, and the NEWWW San Diego Bay Champion… THE STRONG STYLE SERAPH… FIONA ROURKKKEEEE!

WINNER (and NEW EXPro San Diego Bay Champion): FIONA ROURKE

"One for the Money" starts and Fiona gets to her knees, looking up to the sky as she points upward, the referee handing her the title. Zeppeli is down and out, Taylor is down, and Riley rolls outside of the ring, looking frustrated as he places his hands on his hips. Fiona gets up and takes the title, kissing it as she holds it up for the fans as Riley reaches for a chair outside and slams it against one of the ring posts. In absolute anger and frustration, he gets into the ring and looks ready to slam it again as Fiona turns around to look at him. Her music continues as she looks crestfallen that her success has come at the expense of one of her best friends and soon to be family. She mouths "I'm sorry," at the former champion, who looks angry and ready to strike with the chair...before he drops it and comes over, hugging one of his best friends, his tag team partner, and future family. The two exchange whispers before he lets go and raises her hand in victory as he walks off frustrated and dejected.

Dick Morosi: SHE HAS DONE IT! Fiona Rourke is going to the finals of the Honor Cup, and she's doing it as the first ever Triple Crown winner in EXODUS Pro history!

Seth Ericson: This has to be a bittersweet moment for Fiona. She had to do it at the expense of one of her best friends. Nobody wanted to see Jimmy Riley and Fiona Rourke end like that, and who knows where Riley goes from here?

Dick Morosi: These are questions we'll see answered in due time. For now, let's head backstage.

As the scene cuts to the backstage area, we see Blake Jones, already dressed in his ring gear...and hanging upside down from a bar that has been placed above the door frame. His eyes are closed and he remains shirtless, his hoodie on the ground beneath him.

“Don’t fall down, mate, it would hurt ya.”

Blake drops down from the bar, landing on his feet.

Blake Jones: Well, it’s nice to see you here...Sylar.

The camera pans to the direction Blake is looking at and we see former San Diego Bay champion and Blake’s tag team partner, Sylar Drake. The Japanese audience cheers for the Newcastle Young Gun so loudly that a smirk comes across Blake’s face when he hears them.

Blake Jones: Looks like they missed you around these EXODUS parts.

Sylar Drake: And I missed EXODUS. I just wanted to say good luck in your match tonight. I know you’ll do good.

Sylar extended his hand to Blake, who shook it. The young Brit smirked as he suddenly turned on his heels and started walking away.

Blake Jones: Wait wait wait… that’s it, Sylar? You’re not gonna--

Sylar Drake: I have lots of thing to do now in a very limited time. Two weeks, Blake. Wait just two weeks and we’ll have all the time in the world to talk.

As Sylar made his leave, Blake just shakes his head and smiles as the scene fades to the ring.