We remain backstage after all of this has transpired, and the sore body of The Allmother, The Entity mara slowly sits down in her dark dressing room. Looking in a mirror as she remains tired and frustrated with the match that had just transpired, she looks down for a moment before looking up in the mirror as a hand is placed on her shoulder.
mara: I know it's you. I just know it's you. It went just like you said. I've kept my end, just like you promised.
There's no response.
mara: Everyone's okay, right? Everyone is all on the same page?
Again, nothing.
mara: We need to stop meeting like this. There's a lot we really should talk about. I know you know, but...I know you've got this handled.
And on that, another hand appears, placing a small flash drive in front of her.
mara: Thank you.
And for the first time in what seems to be ages, a genuine smile creeps upon the face of The Allmother as the hand leaves her shoulder and we cut back to Dick and Seth.
Dick Morosi: I don't even know what just happened there.
Seth Ericson: Someone's nuttier than mara, that's what happened.
Dick Morosi: It's hard to say what just went down, but it's in the shadow of the biggest match in professional wrestling this year! It's the renewal of a huge rivalry for the EXODUS Pro World Title! Christian Kane meets the champion Chris Strike, and it's next!
WORLD TITLE MATCH
CHRIS STRIKE (EXODUS Pro World Champion) vs. CHRISTIAN KANEThe evening is almost at it’s dying hour, but the teaming masses in attendance will definitely be going home content with what they have witnessed. Knowing what’s left on the horizon, the fans are ready; ready for what is set to be one of the biggest matches of the year. As soon as the audience begins to settle, David Zinkus enters the ring with a mic in hand, about to officially declare the beginning of what is expected to not just be an all out war, but an instant classic.
David Zinkus: Ladies and gentleman, this next bout is your ‘The War Isn’t Over Yet’ Main Event!
The crowd erupts with a bedlam of cheers, knowing they’re about to see two of the best in the business go at it for the best prize in the business. After a brief moment, the subtle cheers subside
SHOT THROUGH THE HEART, AND YOU'RE TO BLAME
DARLING YOU GIVE LOVE A BAD NAME!
The guitars and drums of the timeless Bon Jovi classic kick in throughout the arena as Christian Kane makes his way through the curtain and onto the stage. Red and white lights focus on the Canadian Sensation and flash rapidly, drawing attention to him whilst smoke pours across the entranceway. Holding his arms out in a ‘T’, the lights begin to illuminate his silhouette as the crowd goes wild.
Dick Morosi: This is it for Christian Kane. For a man that has recaptured the hearts of the fans, and has rebuilt his image, his path of redemption comes full circle tonight.
Seth Ericson: That is, if he can exercise one of his biggest personal and professional demons. To do that, he’s gotta beat THE man right now, and a man who embarrassed him the last time they went one on one.
Dick Morosi: A lot has happened since then, and you know that, Seth. Christian Kane has more than made up for his past sins. He’s a beloved figure in EXODUS. And everyone is pulling for him to knock Chris Strike down a peg.
Seth Ericson: Yeah, but that’s easier said than done.
With a grin Kane proceeds down the ramp, acknowledging certain fans with his merch, a few who wield signs, even going as far as to slap their hands before slowly coming to a stop at ringside. Christian stares at the ring, a stoic, focused expression that eventually turns into a smirk as Kane makes his way up the steps, the crowd cheering for him all the while over his music.
From the apron The Handsome Drifter climbs the turnbuckle, his left foot standing on the second rope while his right is on the top rope. He then lowers his jacket, allowing his jacket to slide off his body to the floor before holding his arms out to his side again and tensing his muscles, inciting an extremely loud reaction from the audience in attendance once more.
After hopping into the ring Kane runs across to the diagonally opposite turnbuckle before blowing a kiss into the crowd as high pitched cheers rain out from the female contingent of the die-hard EXODUS Pro faithful (mostly). As the music slowly fades, Kane jumps down backwards into the ring and walks to his corner, preparing for the match ahead.
Dick Morosi: Kane looks more focused than I’ve ever seen him, Seth.
Seth Ericson: He should be. The man he’s about to face claims to be the best in the world, and that claim is validated by the fact that he holds the EXODUS World Championship. Christian looks ready for a fight. Lucky for him he’s about to get the fight of his life in a few minutes.
Strike isn’t here and already the atmosphere is electric. Camera flashes litter the arena, and the fans cheer and whoop in anticipation for the encounter. Kane surveys the landscape, smiling at the adulation of the EXODUS faithful, before giving them a polite clap which only causes the fans to scream louder. The Handsome Drifter laughs lightly, before moving out of the corner and resting on the far ropes, waiting for the fallen War Machine to make his arrival. There is a few seconds of tense anticipation, before the first signs of the defending champion are known.
The house lights in the arena go out completely, thunder and rain can be heard from a distance, all while the image of a large mountain complete with a temple atop the peak is seen on the LCD screen while the beginning of “No More Regrets” by Arch Enemy blares out of the PA system, green spotlights beginning to swirl all across the arena. The LCD screen zones down from the heavens onto an field filled with high grass covering it and the wind beating against it…and at its center, there is one man standing and as he opens his way and lifts his head up, lightning strikes him down!
As the lightning hits the man at the center, streams of smoke shoot up from the ramp way area and high above, covering the entrance ramp as the song kicks into full motion, as Reika Seragaki emerges from the smoke first to heavy boos from the crowd and Chris Strike follows suit from behind her, slowly stepping out into the limelight, drawing a loud reaction from the EXODUS faithful as he stops in front of the entrance ramp and slowly raises his right arm up – EXODUS Pro World Heavyweight title held high as the smoke emerges higher and pyros shoot out from each side of the ramp before he makes his way down, having the occasional fans reaching out towards him from the rail, keeping his eyes solely focused on the ring, ignoring any distractions in his way while Reika Seragaki follows him from behind.
Dick Morosi: He is arrogant, ruthless, and delusional. He is Chris Strike, and he is your EXODUS World Champion.
Seth Ericson: A two time champion at that, a feat that has only been accomplished one other time. Strike buried the man who did
that Dick, just like he plans to bury Christian Kane tonight.
Dick Morosi: He’ll have to go to hell and back to do that, Seth. I’m willing to bet my life on it.
Seth Ericson: Be careful now, you know you only get one of those.
… Never again!
NOOOOOOOOOOOO! NO MORE REGRETS!
WHAT’S DONE IS DONE, CAN’T BE ERASED!
KNOW! KNOW YOUR REGRETS...SAVOR THE BITTER AFTERTASTE!!!!!Chris then makes his way up the ring stairs, using the steel pole for support, putting his right foot over the middle rope while Reika Seragaki slides inside the ring. As he is about to get inside, Strike suddenly turns around and finds himself with both elbows locked around the top rope, his entire upper body exposed to the crowd’s sight while Reika Seragaki is just right behind him. Chris Strike slowly raises the EXODUS Pro World Heavyweight title in the air, savoring the moment as the crowd boos him with a grin while Reika applauds him, sitting themselves in the middle rope and allowing the champion to go under it with ease. He looks around at the crowd, raising the EXODUS Pro World title in the air again before walking to the nearest corner, leaning against the turnbuckle as David Zinkus steps into the middle of the ring to provide the formal introduction.
David Zinkus: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and is for the EXODUS World Championship. Introducing first, the challenger; from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, weighing in at two hundred and fifteen pounds… he is CHRISTIAN! KANEEEEEEEE!
The crowd ignites with unanimous cheers as The Handsome Drifter steps forward, throwing his arms every which way as he begins to get fired up, playing up to the audience like the true showman he is. The display garners nothing but a disapproving snarl on the mug of his opponent who looks on from his corner.
David Zinkus: And his opponent! From Sao Paulo, Brazil by way of Denver, Colorado, weighing in at two hundred and twenty pounds! He is the reigning, and defending EXODUS World Champion! He is The War Machine, CHRIS! STRIKEEEEEEEE!
As a near deafening wave of boos descends upon the arena, Strike steps out of the corner, hoisting his EXODUS World title into the air with utmost pride as he runs off at the mouth to the man hell bent on taking it from him.
Seth Ericson: Love him or hate him, he’s the best in the game right now, Dick. We have to appreciate the man's greatness.
Dick Morosi: It’s hard to considering the way he goes about his business. I for one am sick of his attitude, as are the fans, and more importantly, the challenger. You can tell by the look on his face he just wants to rip Strike a new one.
Seth Ericson: He’ll have the opportunity to do so as the champion gets set to hand off his belt to the referee.
Dick Morosi: Which might turn out to be the last time he does so.
Indeed, The War Machine stares at his most prized possession, before approaching senior referee Brian Lowery to hand it off. Upon completing the exchange, Strike watches as the referee displays his belt to the north side of the audience, and then to the left. While this ensues, the vindictive champion notices his challenger turn his back, as Kane looks out into the audience one last time to play to the crowd. With a sinister thought running through his mind, The War Machine quickly moves on Lowery, and snatches his title back before charging at Kane who slowly turns around-
Seth Ericson: OH MY GOD!
Right in time to get clocked with the EXODUS World Championship, as Chris Strike drops him like a bad habit in the middle of the ring to a vehement chorus of boos. An irate Brian Lowery immediately seizes the World title back, and descends upon the dastardly villain with quite the tongue lashing for his heinous action, but the damage and the crime had already been done. With a wide grin etched on his face, Strike throws his arms up in the air and backs away into a neutral corner, as Lowery checks on the challenger’s condition.
Dick Morosi: That sorry excuse for a human being, that classless S.O.B., Chris Strike just assaulted Christian Kane before the match. I didn’t think he could get any lower, but I was wrong, Seth.
Seth Ericson: Kane took his eye off of him for one second, and he paid the price. He had to know Strike would resort to any means to leave here with the belt.
Dick Morosi: You can’t blame the challenger for the fact that our current World Champion does not believe in fighting fair. This sort of nonsense cannot be tolerated, and just proves what everyone in this arena knows to be true - Chris Strike is afraid of Christian Kane. He knows he was going to get beat tonight, Seth. Now there’s no way Kane can compete now.
Speaking of the challenger, with Brian Lowery huddled over him in the corner he finally begins to stir and show signs of life. The visibly stunned Canadian struggles to pull himself up whilst the senior official continues to check on his condition, and assure him that he is willing to call the match off - which Kane orders him not to do through slurred words. Refusing to quit, Christian shakes his head no, as a shocked and disappointed Lowery has no choice but to ring for the bell.
Seth Ericson: I can’t believe it. Kane is going through with the match.
Dick Morosi: He’s got guts, Seth. That’s more than what I can say about the champion.
*DING! DING! DING!* Chris Strike takes a few steps out of the corner, glowing with elated arrogance as he begins to size up his adversary. He edges his opponent to “come on” with his hands, finding it almost impossible to contain himself in the face of what appears to be a very academic victory, sending the crowd into a tumultuous uproar of boos and jeers. Their negativity falls on deaf ears, as the defending champion is completely focused as he skulks the groggy challenger - whom of which begins to stumble to his feet, eyes weary, and in a blinding haze created by the belt shot he received moments ago. And that haze leaves him vulnerable, and completely defenseless, allowing The War Machine to take full advantage. As Kane obliviously begins to turn around, the World Champion charges out of the corner like a train off the rails. Once within striking distance, the locomotive jumps off the rails and into the air to connect with the NARUKAMI! The Handsome Drifter stands up from the point of impact, before flopping straight onto his back from the devastating Double Knee Facebreaker.
Seth Ericson: Narukami! This one is over, Dick. Thanks for playing, Kane!
Dick Morosi: As if the conclusion was ever in doubt. This is a mockery.
With a wide spread smirk on his mug, the Brazilian begins crawling to his inanimate foe. Strike doesn’t even bother to hook Christian’s legs, as he’s much too sure of himself to do so. Instead, he simply collapses across Kane’s chest, resting on him as Brian Lowery begins his count.
“ONE!”
“TWO!” In a shocking, almost defiant display, the Canadian Sensation musters enough might and will to roll his shoulder over, the crowd immediately rising to it’s feet and responding in vehement cheers. Strike looks up in disbelief, before going to the cover once again, this time opting to hook the inside leg.
“ONE!”
“TWO!” Once again, Kane is able to break the fall, getting a shoulder up to further ignite the crowd. Visibly stunned, the EXODUS World Champion goes for the pin for a third consecutive time, choosing to hook both legs on this attempt.
“ONE!”
“TWO!” The challenger breaks the count again, bucking out of the pinfall to avoid defeat. Chris Strike climbs up to his feet as exasperated as one can possibly be, gripping Lowery around the collar and getting right into his face. The senior official attempts to explain himself, but The War Machine is having none of it, as he is too irate to be reasoned with and simply tosses the referee back.
Dick Morosi: What a show of tenacity and guts from Christian Kane. I thought for sure the World Champion had sealed this win, but The Handsome Drifter would not go without protest.
Seth Ericson: Yeah, he kicked out of the Narukami, but how much longer do you think he can keep this up? Strike’s still in control, Dick.
Dick Morosi: Be that as it may, I think we've learned something about Christian Kane in these first few minutes; he came to win tonight!
Seething with rage and disdain for his nemesis, Strike leans down and grabs a handful of the Canadian’s blond hair before pulling him up to a vertical base, only to throw a knee into his foe’s abdomen, doubling him over. Strike immediately puts his head underneath CK’s arm, and executes a waistlock before lifting him up and falling back. The Handsome Drifter is thrown into a forward somersault courtesy of a Northern Lights Suplex that plants him into the canvas with an authoritative thud. The persistent World Champion maintains the bridge to complete the cover as Brian Lowery moves into position and begins counting.
“ONE!”
“TWO - NO KICKOUT!” Strike quickly scrambles to his feet, and clenches his fist around his foe’s hair before pulling him up into a seated position, then firing a vile shoot kick at Kane’s back. The impact of the strike throws Christian’s upper body forward, - however, before he can recoil back onto the mat he’s forced there by another shin kick, this time to his sternum as the impact echoes throughout the arena. Having afforded his rival another pain filled opportunity to stare at the ceiling, The War Machine steps back to lean into the ring cables, using the elasticity of the ropes to build up momentum as he bounces off into a dash. From there Chris quickly leaps into the air, before crashing down onto CK’s body with a Senton as he drops his full two hundred and twenty-two pound frame into the Canadian’s carcass. From there the World Champion executes a lateral press as he rolls over and hooks his legs for the pinfall.
“ONE!”
“TWO - KICKOUT!” Despite his physical anguish, the former International Champion musters enough strength to roll his hips and get a shoulder up, breaking up the pinfall and irritating the World Champion even further. Strike doesn’t haste in showing his contempt at Brian Lowery’s
”slow” counting. Giving the man in zebra stripes a cold blooded glare, he turns his attention to Christian Kane once again, watching as the battered Canadian crawls toward the ropes. WIth malicious intent in his eyes, Strike commences a pretentious saunter toward his downed foe, before stepping onto Kane’s face whilst he holds the top rope for added leverage. With a sickening smirk on his face Strike continues his heinous, and illegal assault until Brian Lowery threatens him with disqualification via a five count.
”ONE!”
“TWO!”
“THREE!”
“FOUR!” Finally, the World Champion removes his boot from the side of Kane’s visage, before directing his scorn to the official and mouthing off
“I’m the World Champion. You better act like you know or I’ll have you thrown out on the streets!” Dick Morosi: I’ve really had about all I can stomach of Chris Strike, Seth. For a man that helped save EXODUS almost half a year ago, he has become the most hated figure in the company.
Seth Ericson: That often happens when you become World Champion, Dick. Your friends begin to envy and turn on you because they want what you have. Everyone in EXODUS wishes they could walk in his shoes. But none of them can.
Dick Morosi: I see you’ve decided to put your head up your ass tonight, Seth. EXODUS did not turn it’s back on Chris Strike. Chris Strike turned his back on EXODUS. He’s a man who only cares about himself.
Seth Ericson: And the World Championship, which he will stop at nothing to keep.
With his focus back on the Canadian Sensation, Strike allows Kane to gather himself on all fours, following him in his attempt to reach the turnbuckle before
”assisting” him with a stiff kick to the ribs. Grimacing in pain, Christian falls into the corner, unable to protect himself from a barrage of stomps as the World Champion proceeds to lay into him. After executive about five stomps to the chest, The War Machine turns to the crowd to rub his dominance in their face. The amount of negativity coming from the EXODUS faithful is off the scale, bringing a self-gratified smirk to the surface of the Brazilian’s facial features. With the crowd looking on with disdain and consternation, Chris lifts the former International Champion up to a vertical base, then slams a huge forearm right into the Canadian’s cheek bone, forcing Kane to depend on the corner for stability as his knees buckle from the blistering shot. Strike follows that up with a knife-edge chop which practically rips the flesh right from Christian’s chest, and then a back elbow to the temple to rattle his rival’s brain even further. The force of the shot causes CK’s head to cock backwards, before hanging askew to the side as if his neck can no longer hold up the weight of his skull.
With a wicked smile on his mug, the champion begins backtracking to the opposite side of the ring. Once he feels there is enough distance between the two of them, he begins his sprint. As Chris draws near, the Handsome Drifter shows enough wherewithal to counter, as he bends down before using his opponent’s momentum against him as he tosses Strike overhead. Aware of his ring positioning, the World Champion grabs the top rope and uses it to pull himself down onto the safety of the apron. Upon landing on his feet, the villain connects with a forearm to stop Kane in his tracks. Looking to maintain control of the match, Strike grabs the ring cables and uses them to springboard himself back into the ring - only to be caught with a picture perfect Dropkick as the challenge registers the attack with a beautiful counter that sends Strike crashing down to the barely padded mat below.
Dick Morosi: Don’t call it a comeback, but Christian Kane is finally showing signs of life, Seth. He’s endured a significant amount of punishment since the outset of this contest, but now he has a chance to turn this match on it’s head.
Seth Ericson: Yeah, but how much do you think he has left in the tank? The World Champion came in with a gameplan, and up until that point he executed it flawlessly.
Dick Morosi: But now this is anybody’s match, and you’d be a fool to count out the challenger. He wants this more than anybody, and he has an entire company supporting him.
Seth Ericson: That doesn’t mean anything, Dick. The fact of the matter is Chris Strike doesn’t have to beat Christian Kane to leave here as the champion. The pressure is all on the challenger.
Strike rests on the floor, blinking repeatedly as he tries to shake the cobwebs. Christian is still trying to regather himself as well, visibly wounded and worn down by the beating he received for the better part of ten minutes. Composed and as recovered as one can possibly be considering the circumstances, the number one contender slowly rolls under the bottom rope and climbs down from the apron to Chris’ level. The Handsome Drifter asses the situation before him; he knew the ball was firmly in his court now, and he was hell bent on keeping the upper hand. He drives his boot right into the Brazilian’s ribs, causing the War Machine to flinch in agony. Leaning down, Kane grabs Strike’s arm and uses it to pull him to a vertical base before whipping him hard into the guardrail. The champion slumps down, kneeling against the rail deliriously as some fans slap him on the back and head, while others simply cheer the fact that he’s finally getting the brakes beat off him. Marching with purpose, Christian looks to continue his assault - but before he can carry out his wishes he’s blinded as the champion reaches up to rake him in the eyes. WIth his vision impaired the Handsome Drifter staggers back, providing Chris with a window of opportunity to take advantage. The two time Heavyweight Champion steps forward with a toe kick, only to have it blocked as Kane catches the leg in his arm. From there, the Canadian Sensation reaches down to sweep the other leg, sending Strike to the floor. With both legs now in his possession the challenger stares out into the crowd, whilst the champion pleads and begs for mercy. The aforementioned pleas fall on deaf ears as Christian leans back, pulling his rival off the ground and catapulting him right into the steel ring post.
Dick Morosi: Face first into the ring post! Christian wants to turn this into a fight, and he’s succeeding.
Seth Ericson: Oh God. The champion looks hurt, Dick. That steel post has no give, and it seems to have busted Strike right open.
Climbing to his feet, Kane marches toward Strike, looking to stay on top of him in this phase of the match. As he stands above him, the camera focuses on the World Champion’s face, which is slowly being covered in a crimson mask as he seems to have indeed been cut due to the collision with the ring post. The blood cascades from his hairline, giving Christian a bullseye to exploit. The challenger doesn’t pass up this delicacy, as he kneels beside his antagonist before pummeling him with rights and lefts, looking to open up the gash on the War Machine’s forehead. The crowd pops at the sudden display of belligerence on the part of the Canadian Sensation, as the punches continue to rain down like bullets. Grabbing a handful of his bloodied foe’s hair, Christian lifts him to his feet before traveling toward the guardrail, staring out into the bloodthirsty crowd. As soon as he reaches the metal rails, he positions himself behind Chris, and hooks his nearest leg, then leans back before driving his momentum forward to plant the World Champion face first into the rail with an Inverted Russian Legsweep.
Kane allows no rest for the wicked, as he lifts his punch drunk nemesis onto his shoulders, before carrying Strike’s deadweight toward the announcer’s table. Once he reaches his destination, he unceremoniously lurches Chris off his shoulders, causing him to drop face first across the edge of the table. Strike staggers from the point of impact, then turns around right into a high impact Lariat as the challenger nearly decapitates him with his forearm. With a fire in his eyes, Christian directs traffic, sending the commentary team in retreat as he proceeds to lift the cover off the announce table.
Dick Morosi: It appears we’ll be calling the rest of this match on our feet, as Christian Kane rearranges furniture here at ringside, Seth.
Seth Ericson: I hope he knows this is all coming out of his paycheck.
Grabbing Strike around the head, Kane pulls the champion to his feet before lifting him onto the announce table. Upon climbing himself, the challenger drags his foe to his feet, only to drop him back down with a Facebuster. However, the table remains upright, prompting Christian to take more extreme measures to dismantle his nemesis. Laying on the table, the Brazilian turns onto his back, his eyes flickering as they peel back, as he desperately tries to regain his bearings and consciousness. Meanwhile, the Handsome Drifter has stepped onto the apron, and is beginning to scale the top rope, pandering to the roaring crowd as they get on their feet in anticipation for a highlight reel type maneuver from the greatest showman in professional wrestling. The audience begins to shout and scream, as the living legend stands tall above the masses. The ropes suddenly convulse, as the cables fling the challenger into the air in a Moonsault. As he maneuvers through the electricity in the air, his silhouette casts a warning shadow over Strike’s body, making him aware of the danger that’s plummeting down over him. With a split second reaction, Chris rolls off the table, avoiding what would have been a match sealing collision. Instead, the Canadian crashes into the announce table like a comet smashing into the Earth’s core. The announcer’s table succumbs to the pressure of Kane’s weight, breaking into several big pieces as he lies in a heap on the floor. Both men remain motionless following the sudden change of events, with the World Champion resting easy knowing he just saved his skin, and the challenger knowing he could have cost himself everything. Soaking all of this in are the patrons, as they can only chant in unison two words to accurately convey the emotions they’re feeling after witnessing what just transpired before them.
”HOLY SHIT!”
”HOLY SHIT!”
”HOLY SHIT!”
”HOLY SHIT!”Seth Ericson: HE MISSED! KANE GOES RIGHT THROUGH THE TABLE!
Dick Morosi: They don’t call it a high-risk maneuver for nothing. He just threw caution to the wind with a gamble that didn’t pay off.
Strike gathers himself, and uses the ring apron to pull himself up to a vertical base. Now back on his feet, the World Champion blows his hair from out of his bloodied face, a sigh of relief escaping him as he plods heavily toward his downed foe. Slowly, the champion proceeds to lift Kane’s carcass off the floor as he drags him to his feet. Grabbing the veteran by the neck, he slowly shoves him into the ring. Instead of immediately climbing back in, the World Champion knees up onto the apron, still visibly weakened by the loss of blood and the toll the match itself has taken on his mind and body. Taking in a deep breath, the War Machine stares into the ring as the former shell of what used to be Christian Kane begins to stir, albeit gingerly. Realizing that his opponent may have suffered irreversible damage due to his failed Moonsault, Chris slowly uses the ropes to pull himself to a stand. With his eyes narrowed with focus, and determination, the World Champion takes a brief moment to catch his breath as he waits for the Canadian Sensation to stand. The challenger gradually climbs to his feet, his body hunched over due to the multitude of injuries it’s nursing, having been worn out by the heat of battle. With the gears now turning in his head, Chris quickly springs onto the top rope before exploiting the cables flexibility to launch himself across the ring. Getting his feet steady, the Handsome Drifter suddenly steps to the side, catching Strike off guard - as does the boot that comes shooting up from the canvas to crash into his jaw, knocking him out of the air as the deliverer of the Superkick simply turns and falls face first onto the canvas.
Dick Morosi: THE WAR MACHINE JUST FLEW…. STRAIGHT INTO THE SSK!
Seth Ericson: OUT OF NOWHERE! Where did that come from, Dick?!
Dick Morosi: From inside, where the heart of a champion lies. This is your time Kane!
The roof of the building is blown off, the sound around the spectrum is a perfect pandemonium of cheers. The electricity in the venue is tenfold, as the champion’s frame remains motionless, rendered lifeless by the sexiest kick in wrestling. With his body aching and screaming at him through every fiber in his being, the Canadian Sensation lifts up onto all fours. With every ounce of energy he can muster, Kane crawls a short distance, which to him feels like a voyage to the center of the Earth. He then collapses into the canvas from the agony he's feeling, staring in the direction of his unconscious adversary with one eye, while the other is wired shut by virtue of being smashed into the canvas. Christian takes a deep breath, and forces himself back onto his hands and knees again, crawling just enough to lunge onto his opponent. Unable to hook the leg, he simply drapes his arm on Chris Strike's chest to execute the pinfall. As Brian Lowery slides down into position, the crowd counts along as he gets set to crown a new EXODUS World Champion.
”ONE!”
“TWO!”
“THR- NO!” Or so we thought. The War Machine convulses his shoulder off the canvas, and the Handsome Drifter rolls back onto the mat. Both men lay unmoving on the canvas, staring glassy eyed at the ceiling. Overcoming the dejection of watching their hero fail to secure the victory, the audience simply responds with a loud roar of approval in response to the cutthroat level of competition.
”THIS IS AWESOME!”
*CLAP *CLAP* CLAPCLAPCLAP*
”THIS IS AWESOME!”
*CLAP *CLAP* CLAPCLAPCLAP*Dick Morosi: Both men have taken the other’s best shot, and have lived to fight another day. They’ve endured an unimaginable amount of punishment, yet neither one is willing to quit. They know what’s at stake, Seth.
Seth Ericson: It’s pride. It’s bragging rights. It’s the fact that they hate each other’s guts. And more importantly, it’s because they both want to leave here as the EXODUS World Champion.
Chris Strike slowly drags himself into the South-western corner of the ring, looking to create as much distance between he and the man hell bent on unseating him at the top of the mountain. Christian Kane begins to stir as well, as he takes homage in the opposite corner from the War Machine, whose face has now become a coagulated mixture of sweat and blood. With a narcissistic smile on his face, the World Champion shakes his head, shouting at his opponent
“YOU CAN’T DO IT” in an effort to manufacture some doubt in the heart of the challenger. The taunting causes a divided loyalty in the bleachers, with one set of fans chanting “LET’S GO STRIKE!” which is immediately followed with a chant of ‘LET’S GO CHRISTIAN!” from the Canadian’s supporters.
Dick Morosi: This crowd is torn here. These two are so evenly matched that even they don’t know who to root for.
Seth Ericson: These are two of the best in the business Dick and - what the hell is going on?
Diverting Seth’s attention from the action is a small group of figures hooded in black robes. The group of about four slowly make their way down to ringside. Meanwhile, back inside the ring the two battle-weary combatants approach one another, with the atmosphere in the arena growing to a near biblical fever pitch. Both competitors move closer to one another, nudging their foreheads together as they stare into the other’s eyes and run off at the mouth words that can't even be heard due to all the noise. After what seems like hours, Christian makes the first move, landing a lightning fast right hand across Strike’s jaw, forcing the Brazilian’s head to spring back in recoil. The War Machine quickly follows suit, stepping into Kane with a European Uppercut, nearly sending his head to the ceiling like a Rock-em-sock-em robot. Kane comes back with another right hand to loud cheers, only to have Chris once again answer with another STIFF European Uppercut to deafening boos. The strike leaves CK punch-drunk, allowing the World Champion to take advantage as he flings the challenger across the ring. As he rebounds, the Canadian Sensation sees Strike lower his posture, and thus halts his momentum in time to counter accordingly. Taking evasive measures, he turns around and leaps off his feet, sliding down Strike’s back before flipping back onto his feet. Strike is shocked at Kane’s sudden display of athleticism despite his injuries, and turns around to see Kane coming right at him. Showing off his lightning quick synapses, the World Champion immediately slams a palm thrust into his foe’s visage. Kane staggers back into the ropes from the momentum caused by the Shotei, and collapses into the middle rope, reclines back and almost falls out of the ring. The elasticity of the cables prevent his unceremonious exit, and instead ricochet him forward. Perturbing his opponent, Christian bounces off the ropes with tremendous vigor, having somehow channeled a second wind from deep down within. In a display of tenacity and fighting spirit he charges at the War Machine, and the two wrestlers collide in the middle of the ring - the Handsome Drifter throws a knee up, smashing it right into Strike’s face and knocking him flat on his back.
Dick Morosi: STKO! He got all of that.
Seth Ericson: Damn right he did! Strike doesn’t even know what hit him. That could do it!
With the crowd roaring in approval, Christian steps back and bends over to seize Strike’s legs. Upon pulling his legs up, Kane flips forward to execute a Jackknife pin. Brian Lowery approaches and drops down to begin the count.
”ONE!”
“TWO!”
“THR- NO KICKOUT!” The audience’s cheering turns to grief as Strike once again manages to power out of the pinning predicament. With the frustration visible in his face, Kane sits up as he scours his brain for a way to finally get over the hump in EXODUS at the expense of his greatest rival. Christian runs his fingers through his blond hair, as the Canadian’s exasperation mounts, his lips trembling with rage and disbelief. The boiling and ceasing comes to a sudden cease, as the former International Champion desperately tries to compose himself, knowing he just needs to keep up the pressure. Taking a deep breath, CK grabs Strike around the head and pulls the champion to his feet. He greets him with a stiff forearm, and then a second, and then a third pushes the champ into the ropes. Kane goes for the Irish Whip, but the War Machine turns it on him, reeling him in like a fish hooked on a line. Attempting to use the momentum to his advantage, Christian goes for a Clothesline. Unfortunately, Chris is much too quick, and he weaves around the attack; with the Canadian’s wrist still clutched, Strike spins him around, and steps back, before pulling him forward right into a BURNING LARIAT!
Seth Ericson: He just turned him INSIDE out!
Dick Morosi: SUSANO’O! SUSANO’O!
Strike drops down to a knee from the pain he’s under, then spins around, staring gleefully and confidently at Kane’s unmoving body. Not giving away any time to savor the moment, he goes as as fast as he can on all fours before hooking the Canadian Sensation’s leg.
”ONE!”
“TWO!”
“THR- NO KICKOUT!” Almost in defiance, Christian musters enough might to roll his shoulder over, the crowd immediately rising to it’s feet and responding with vehement cheers. Strike rolls onto his back, eyes staring at the ceiling lights, his facial expression a mixture of frustration and disbelief. As the champion begins to climb to his feet he notices Kane beginning to stir as well. The Brazilian watches as Christian struggles up to his knees; seething with inhospitable rage, the World Champion approaches his rival, beginning to slap him repeatedly in the face whilst he shouts for him to
“STAY DOWN!” Having received enough punishment, Kane responds with a right hand that staggers Strike. Knowing he can’t allow Kane to mount any momentum, Chris puts a stop to it with a series of shots to the solar plexus. Leaning into the ropes now, Strike quickly bounces off with a Clothesline, but the former International Champion is able to duck. The Canadian Sensation quickly makes a beeline for the ropes, leaps onto the middle, then comes flying back right toward the turning War Machine. Time seems to slow down for Kane, but it soon speeds up once more as his boot clashes right into the Brazilian’s head. Both men lie on the canvas, with the only movement coming from the heaving of their chests, whilst the fans lap everything up- knowing they’re witnessing an all time classic.
Dick Morosi: Kane connects with the Springboard Roundhouse! This is his opportunity, Seth. Christian has got to dig deeper. This is the moment of truth.
Seth Ericson: The moment of truth for a man Chris Strike believes to be the biggest fraud in EXODUS. We’re about to find out who’s real, and who’s fake. It’s gut check time. Somebody’s gotta win this thing.
Kane’s extra energy leaves as fast as it came, as he rolls onto his chest, trying to force himself back to his feet. Pounding the mat to get a rhythm going, the fans in the arena join in; they clap their hands and stomp their feet, doing whatever they can to will the Canadian Sensation to victory. Christian pulls himself up in the corner mouthing
“THIS IS MY TIME.” before stamping his feet on the canvas. Strike senses the vibrations from the beats, and knows that something is afoot, albeit subconsciously. Still, he gradually climbs to his feet, with saliva hanging from his bottom lip, and sweat and blood cascading from his brow, looking like a man on his proverbial and literal last legs. Slowly turning around, Chris begins to accept his fate. Kane comes sidestepping out of the corner, and once he’s in attack range he thrusts out his boot for the SSK. This time the battle weary World Champion manages to circumvent the potentially cranium shattering kick. Coiled like a viper, ready to strike, Strike waits for Kane to turn around - and when he does he unloads on him with a series of kesagiri chops, and then a spinning one that knocks Christian senseless and gets him to give his back. The shift in positioning allows the War Machine to slip in with a Half-Nelson before leaning back to deposit his foe right on his head. The momentum of the Aku Soku Zan sends Kane rolling up to one knee. Scrambling back to his feet now, the World Champion jumps into a kickboxing stance, before stepping forward to take Kane’s head off with a move more recognizable coming from the man currently on the receiving end of it.
Seth Ericson: SSK! SSK! HAHA! Turnabout is fair play!
Dick Morosi: The level of disrespect… Chris Strike would love nothing more than to beat Christian Kane with his own move.
The fatigued champion begins crawling toward his sprawling foe with a huge smirk on his face, sweating profusely, leaving a puddle on each spot of the canvas he slithers across. Hooking the inside leg, Chris performs a lateral press as Brian Lowery begins counting.
”ONE!”
“TWO!”
“THR- NO KICKOUT!” Driven by instinct and a hatred for his opponent, the former International Champion throws a shoulder up. The crowd immediately rises to their feet in a shower of cheers. Strike rolls onto all fours, then slams his fists into the canvas repeatedly, unable to fathom what’s driving Christian to continue despite the punishment sustained. Washing his hands over his face, Chris climbs back to a stand and makes a quick slashing motion across his throat.
Seth Ericson: Strike has had enough. He’s ready to end Christian Kane and prove who’s the better man once and for all.
As Strike skulks behind his foe, the World Champion finally acknowledges the presence of the hooded group at ringside, a conglomerate that has now increased in size. There’s now about fifteen of them as they stand at ringside. Knowing he can’t lose focus, the War Machine turns his attention back to Christian who stumbles to his feet. Seizing the moment, Chris spins his foe around before doubling him over with a toe kick. From there he performs a standing headscissors, looking to nail the move that allowed him to recapture the EXODUS World Championship. As he tries to lift Kane off the canvas, the Canadian Sensation plants his feet, refusing to budge. Instead he counters, backing up toward the corner before lifting and throwing Strike overhead to send him somersaulting forward into the turnbuckle padding. With a menagerie of emotions running through his mind, Kane scrambles back to his feet and takes a few steps away from his opponent. He watches as the wounded War Machine struggles to pull himself up in the corner, as he simply rests his head on the bottom turnbuckle. Realizing this, Kane charges. The Handsome Drifter leaps onto the second turnbuckle, and then onto the top rope, before leaping into the air to come down with a curb stomp - only there’s nobody home. The World Champion moves out of harm's way at the nick of time, before sliding behind the challenger and pulling him down with a School Boy Roll Up. As Brian Lowery slides into position to make the count, the champion makes use of his ring positioning by throwing his foot up onto the middle rope for added leverage.
”ONE!”
“TWO!”
“THR- NO KICKOUT!” Much to the crowd’s delight the War Machine is unable to steal the win as Kane powers out of the pinfall attempt. Both men get to their feet now, but Strike already sets off at a run - only to have his aggression used against him as Kane pulls him down into a Small Package.
”ONE!”
“TWO!”
“THR- NO KICKOUT!”Strike is now the one to avoid defeat as he breaks free from Kane’s clutches. Once again, both combatants scramble to their feet. However, this time it’s Christian going for the first punch as he vies for a Clothesline. Thinking quickly, the World Champion is able to strafe behind his adversary, before turning his back to the Canadian Sensation and hooking his arms. Afterward he falls forward onto his knees, pulling the challenger down into a Backslide Pin.
”ONE!”
“TWO!”
“THR- NO KICKOUT!”Kane rolls away from his adversary, and quickly scrambles to his feet. This gives him a window of opportunity to strike as he steps forward and thrusts his leg out just as Strike gets up to a knee. Christian’s boot is firmly planted in the skull of the War Machine, as the World Champion falls to the canvas without the slightest bit of protest.
Dick Morosi: SSK! SSK! SSK!
Seth Ericson: It’s over! Christian Kane is the new EXODUS World Champion!
Christian simply falls flat on his face due to the agony and exhaustion. The two men lay motionless amidst the ruckus crowd, as the patrons in attendance watch intently at what looks to be the defining, and biggest moment of the Handsome Drifter’s EXODUS career.
*DING! DING! DING!* Until that moment is taken away from him.
David Zinkus: Ladies and gentleman, the following contest has ended via a time limit. Therefore your winner and STILL… EXODUS World Champion…. The War Machine! CHRIS! STRIKEEEEE!
WINNER: Time Limit DrawWith the fatigue now setting in, Christian Kane lifts his sweaty mass up to a knee, and shakes his head in disbelief as he pleads with Brian Lowery to restart the match. The senior official tries his best to explain to Kane that the decision is not in his hands, and that the time had expired. Meanwhile, Chris Strike slowly begins to lift his head and open his eyes, his attention now being held by Brian Lowery who stands over him holding the EXODUS World Championship. As “No More Regrets” by Arch Enemy hits the P.A. system, the realization of what just occurred finally sets in. The War Machine grabs the most prestigious and coveted belt in wrestling, burying his face into the center piece. With a self-assured smile forming on his facial features, the two time champion hoists the EXODUS World title into the air with utmost pride to a vociferous chorus of boos and jeers.
Dick Morosi: It can’t end this way. This isn’t right, Seth. Christian Kane should be the World Champion right now.
Seth Ericson: Should be, but he’s not! Time ran out on Cinderella tonight, Dick. We may not like it, but Chris Strike is still the EXODUS World Champion, and there’s not a damn thing that-
The lights in the arena suddenly dim, leaving the crowd in a quiet hush as they wonder what is happening. Suddenly, a spotlight shines down on the group of druids at the ring, revealing them to be even larger in size. There’s now a sea of them at ringside, preventing the World Champion from leaving the ring. The look on the face of the World Champion is one of confusion as the largest man in the group steps out onto the ramp, seemingly holding a microphone.
Druid: Chris Strike…
He begins in a foreboding tone.
Druid: He’s been watching you…
The War Machine clutches his championship tightly as he looks around the ring, seeing hood after hood surrounding him.
Druid: He’s been watching for the last half year as you’ve paraded, and pretended to be everything that you’re
not, yet by the same token you’ve shown your
true colors all the same.
Smoke begins to build up from the ventilators as the hooded figure continues.
Druid: He knows, Chris. He knows about the black cloud that looms over you, casting a shadow that shrouds every step you take, drenching you in an everlasting darkness that you can’t break free from. It’s a stench that you can’t wash off. A poison that you cannot cure. And he told you it would happen. He told EXODUS that there are no heroes, only martyrs. And YOU, you have reaped the benefits, Chris. You have reaped the benefits of a world you DID NOT CREATE!
The hooded figure’s tone changes, becoming more frantic now.
Druid: Did you really think your sin would go unpunished? Did you honestly believe that he would allow you to walk around pretending to be the KING of HIS dominion, pretending like you’re untouchable… like you’re GOD! YOU ARE NOT GOD, CHRIS STRIKE! I HAVE SEEN GOD! A GOD THAT HAS COME TO BRING DOWN A VENGEANCE UPON YOU THAT THIS WORLD HAS NEVER SEEN BEFORE!
Chris Strike looks around feverishly, going to each side of the ring in search of an exit, but there is no escape.
Druid: CHRIS… look… look around you… look around and witness as your facade begins to CRUMBLE! HE has come for YOU… He has come to reclaim what is rightfully HIS! You have been living on borrowed time, Christopher. And in this time you have become DELUSIONAL… so delusional as to think you could live so large without ever having to answer for your repercussions. But judgment has been past on YOU, Chris. It was past on you at The Autumn Effect. That was the night that the clock began to tick against YOU, and the illusion you’ve created! And now the sands of time in your hour glass have RUN OUT!
The ringside area is now fully engulfed in smoke, whilst the curtains begin to sway. Suddenly, a four man group of hooded druids emerges, carrying a wooden casket.
Druid: TONIGHT's the NIGHT, the night that you realize something… that sometimes the demons that we exorcised… come back to DRAG US TO HELL!
The casket bearers stop in the middle of the aisle, raising the casket up as the EXODUS World Champion looks on in shock.
Druid: That sometimes the ghosts we banished… come back to HAUNT US!
The hooded man slowly descends down to a knee, as does the entire mob.
Druid: THAT SOMETIMES THE DEAD COME BACK TO LIFE!
The spotlight now fixates on the casket, as do all eyes in the arena. A brief moment of eerie silence passes until the casket slowly creaks open.
Druid: RISE… THE TRUE GOD OF EXODUS!
A figure slowly emerges from inside the casket.
Druid: RISE… THE TRUE GOD OF MADNESS!
Dick Morosi: It can't be who I think it is... it can't be!
The lights in the arena suddenly dim to nothingness, draping the entire venue in an ominous cloak of darkness. The lights in the arena flash in a rapid, epileptic succession, until they return to their normal fixture. The arena suddenly comes alive with a bedlam of noise, as the entire cult is suddenly unhooded. Every single one of them is revealed to be wearing burlap sacks, except for two men. One of those men is the former Sword of the New Age, Naoki Arishima. And the other, is dressed in a dusty, shredded tuxedo, the one he donned the last time he was ever seen in an EXODUS ring. He is the most hated, notorious, and polarizing figure in the history of EXODUS Pro Wrestling. Standing, slowly outstretching his arms in a crucifix pose, and prompting the entire mob to do so is none other than the the former EXODUS World Champion.
Noaki Arishima: RISE… CHRISTUM FURORRRRRRRRRRRR!
The former leader of Gods & Monsters stares daggers into the ring, right at Chris Strike who looks as if he's seen a ghost as he clutches his EXODUS World Championship.
Seth Ericson: IT'S CHRISTUM FUROR! He's risen from the grave! Dick, are you seeing this!
Dick Morosi:This is surreal! I thought I'd never see this man ever again. I can't even process this.
Seth Ericson:Oh my God... Dick, do you know what this means?
Dick Morosi: Yes, he's the final entrant in the Honor Cup! My God, Seth. I can't believe it! Christum Furor has returned to EXODUS
The lasting image of the telecast, just like many in EXODUS' two year history, is of Christum Furor standing before the world, the world he had just put on notice once again.
