Battle Without Honor or Humanity II: The Sound of Violence

Dick Morosi: Here we are folks, time for our main event match!

Seth Ericson: Yes, up next we have the latest chapter in one of the longest-running and most personal feuds in EXODUS history - a World Championship match between Chris Strike and Christian Kane!

Dick Morosi: A lot has gone on between these two over the years and it's truly a rivalry for the ages! Now it's time to see if Christian Kane, the "New Hope", can beat Chris Strike to the top of a ladder and take that title away from him!



The atmosphere in the arena is tumultuous, the teaming masses of humanity known as the EXODUS lifeblood have been treated to yet another fine Supercard event, and are still on their feet in anticipation for what is going to be a historic Main Event. With the program drawing to a conclusion, their enthusiasm remains lively, as their buzzing remains at a fair volume as they await the final leg in one of the best rivalries in company history. The camera pans around to gauge their interest, before falling on the ring with the EXODUS World Champion hangs suspended fifteen feet in the air, before finally focusing on David Zinkus. Holding a microphone in his hand, the announcer slowly begins to speak.

David Zinkus: The following contest is your Battle Without Honor or Humanity 2 Main Event, and is a Ladder Match for the EXODUS World Championship!



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 David Zinkus speaks.

Dick Morosi: Christian Kane believes he should be World Champion. Had he been given another five minutes at The War Isn’t Over Yet I’m certain he would have left San Diego with all the marbles.

Seth Ericson: We can talk about hypotheticals all we want, Dick. The point is he didn’t. Christian Kane has yet to best Chris Strike in EXODUS, and I know it’s in the back of his mind. He’s come close on several occasions, but he just can’t get over the hump.

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, looking up at the championship hanging in the air above him, whilst he mentally prepares himself for the challenge ahead.

Dick Morosi: He’s got the support of these fans, and so many men and women in the back. Christian Kane has never been in better shape, and he’s never been as confident.

Seth Ericson: None of that matters though, Dick. None of those people can help Kane climb that ladder, and that’s what he has to do to conquer his demons. Unfortunately for him, he’s got to go through the best in the game to do that.

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 causing smoke to emerge higher and pyros to 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 his hated nemesis in the ring, ignoring any distractions in his way while Reika Seragaki follows him from behind.

Seth Ericson: You want to talk about focus, Chris Strike is as locked in as you can be. He doesn’t care about what people are saying about him. The only thing he’s worried about is keeping that World Championship.

Dick Morosi: You’re perfectly right. He isn’t listening to reasoning. Darrin Stearns, Black Jones, Jonathan Collins, the list goes on and on. The War Machine has turned his back on everyone, and is solely out for himself.

Seth Ericson: You say that like it’s a bad thing. When Strike was worried about the outside world he slipped up and lost to Abby Park. Since he started playing for the name on the back of the jersey we’ve seen him step up his game to a level few can even touch.

Dick Morosi: I’ll admit that. Strike has been as good if not better than I’ve ever seen him.

… 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 his fist into 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, and then at The Handsome Drifter before walking to the nearest corner, leaning against the turnbuckle and observing his surroundings. As the music fades, David Zinkus steps into the center of the ring to begin the formal introductions.

David Zinkus: Introducing first, the challenger. From Toronto, Ontario, Canada, weighing in at two hundred and fifteen pounds; he is ‘The Handsome Drifter’, the ‘Canadian Sensation’... Christian! KANE!

The crowd erupts with huge cheers as Kane nods his head, his eyes darting from the World Championship, and the the champion several times before he leaves them trained on the next man to be announced.

David Zinkus: And his opponent! From Sao Paolo, Brazil by way of Denver, Colorado, weighing in at two hundred and twenty two pounds! He is the reigning and defending EXODUS World Champion! He is the War Machine… Chris! STRIIIIIIIIKKKKKEEEE!

The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino swells with boos and jeers as the crowd lets Strike have it. Meanwhile, the World Champion takes a look at his belt which hangs high in the sky, not even acknowledging the reaction he’s garnering from the fans.

Dick Morosi: These are two of the best wrestlers alive right now, Seth. This is their final encounter. No time limits. No countouts. No disqualifications. The first to climb the ladder and retrieve the belt will leave Vegas as the EXODUS World Champion.

Seth Ericson: It’s gut check time, Dick. That’s the bell. It’s time to do the thing!

*DING! DING! DING!*

As soon as the shrill clang of the ring bell begins to reverberate around the jam packed arena, both competitors start to approach one another. Strike and Kane look up at the EXODUS World Championship for a brief moment, before their vision descends to allow both competitors to be locked in the other’s crosshairs. From there, the rivals start running off about the mouth at each other, as their foreheads become pressed together. The intensity and tension in the venue is palpable, as the two combustible elements look primed to explode at any giving moment. Dislodging himself from his foe’s orbit, The War Machine steps back a foot or two, having finished serving his part in the traditional over the type staredown. Then, with a wry smile on his face the World Champion gives his challenger a quick slap across the mouth, startling the Canadian and eliciting massive boos from the audience. Looking completely satisfied with actions, Strike stands tall while the man on the receiving end of the disrespectful gesture looks away into the crowd. A million different ideas swirl around The Handsome Drifter’s cerebral cortex, but he focuses on one sound - the sound of his rival’s voice, as the World Champion picks the smack talk back up. With a smile etched on his facial features, Kane takes a deep breath; when he exhales, the look on his visage morphs into one of no nonsense, as he suddenly grabs the Brazilian around the head with left hand, before unloading on him with vicious right hands!

Dick Morosi: Kane is unleashing all of his pent up rage and frustration and this crowd is going nuts as we’re starting this thing off with a bang.

Seth Ericson: If you thought these two were going to ease their way into this thing, you’re an idiot. These are two guys who downright hate each other and you’re seeing that hatred manifest right now.

Christian refuses to relent, throwing right hand after right hand, until those fists open up, forming knives that pierce the World Champion’s flesh repeatedly. The series of machine gun like chops put the Colorado resident on the ropes. Kane grabs Strike’s left arm and tries to whip him to the opposite wires, only for the two hundred and twenty pounder to spin through and whip the Canadian into the aforementioned set of cables, ducking down for an attempting Backdrop whilst his adversary hits the three implements. Using all his experience, Kane registers the counter with one of his own, as he halts his momentum in time to swing his leg up and pop the Champion in the shoulder. As Strike bods convulses upwards, the Canadian Sensation gives him his back, before reaching behind him to drag his foe down with a Snapmare. Once Brazilian sits up, the challenger scores with a Dropkick, blasting his nemesis in the back of the head and sending him rolling away in retreat.

Dick Morosi: Kane is firing on all cylinders to start, starting this match at a tremendous pace.

Seth Ericson: And it looks like he’s about to search under the ring for a foreign object.

Indeed, Kane exits the ring, before the middleweight throws the apron up and grabs a ladder, pulling the steel weapon that he needs to win out from under the square circle. Meanwhile, the World Champion has recovered, and quickly drops down to the floor before walking to his opponent’s location, while said opponent raises the ladder up and slides it under the bottom rope. Like pantomimes, the patrons try to warm Christian of the impending danger approaching him, but their attempts prove fruitless as strike winds up and delivers a clubbing blow to the Canadian’s upper back. Kane stature is momentarily reduced as he drops to a knee, but the vindictive War Machine quickly pulls him back up and grabs the rim of his red latex tights, then turns away from the ring to face the sold out crowd. Chris then charges forward with his foe in toe before launching all stunned two hundred and fifteen pounds of him into the security barricade head-first. Those in the front row respond with groans, as Strike stays on the attack. Upon grasping the security wall with both hands, the Way Machine commences to stomp his opponent in the chest again and again, and again! Finally relenting, the villainous Brazilian bends down to grab Kane’s hair, using it to pull him back up to a vertical base. Strike steps behind Kane, quickly putting his head under the Canadian’s arm, before grabbing his thigh and proceeding to hoist him up into the air and onto his shoulders. From there, the World Champion drops his antagonist, causing him to drop back first onto the security barrier.

Seth Ericson: Back first into the security wall goes Christian Kane. Chris Strike has finally joined this match, and he’s done it in emphatic fashion.

Dick Morosi: You heard the man, Seth. He’s not coming out here just to beat Kane. He wants to put him in the hospital, and leave no doubt in anyone’s mind who the better man is.

Kane’s body tightens, as he clutches the small of his back. Chris Strike bends down, grabbing a handful of the Canadian’s blonde hair with one hand, before commencing to strike him across the cheek with the other. He does so once again, and finally a third time, slapping his foe much like an old outlaw in a western flick - rubbing in the fact that he’s taken control of things. With haste now, the War Machine drags his opponent to a stand, and quickly doubles him over with a well placed knee strike to the solar plexus, only to lift him back upright with a staggering European Uppercut. The World Champion follows up with another uppercut, and then a third for good measure, sending sweat flying as his forearm rearranges Christian’s facial features and sends him retreating into the security barrier. As soon as Strike steps forward, the challenger responds in tow as his elbow swings and collides with the Brazilian’s jaw. The Handsome Drifter, grabs hold of Strike before eyeing the ring steps and sending the War Machine hurdling toward them. The two time Heavyweight Champion crashes into the stairs, and Christian wastes no time in positioning his adversary into a seated position. Then the former International Champion steps back, jumps, and kicks both feet out so that they collide with his rival’s face, driving it into the ring steps.

Dick Morosi: Good Lord what a collision! Strike’s head is driven right into the steel steps. These two are trying to shave off as much years off the other’s career as possible.

Seth Ericson: This is as bloody a rivalry as we've ever seen. They’ve aired dirty laundry, they’ve brought up old secrets, they’ve delved into each other’s personal lives. This will be a fight in every sense of the word, and I for one wouldn’t want it any other way.

Kane climbs back to his feet and immediately slides back into the ring, then grabs the ladder and stands it up. As Strike shakes off the effects of the brutal Dropkick, the ladder is opened up in the ring, as Christian positions it directly under the EXODUS World Championship that beckons him to retrieve it. The Handsome Drifter spots his opponent through his peripheral vision, and immediately charges, throwing his left leg high once he’s within kicking range. Quick thinking, the ring veteran of ten plus years shows off his awareness, as Strike pulls the top rope down whilst ducking to the side; as a consequence, Kane’s leg goes over the top. The War Machine quickly grabs at the ankle, then steps forward with a sickening forearm shot to the chin. The vicious blow takes away Kane’s balance, as he loses his footing and falls to his back, while his leg remains caught on the rope and in his sadistic rival’s possession. Strike walks to the turnbuckle and quickly ascends it, using one hand for support along with the two hundred and fifteen pound man he has a hold of. Once safely at the top of the mountain, Chris tucks the ankle under his arm and leaps off with a front flip in what closely resembles a Jackknife Pin. The Canadian Sensation’s leg is released upon it being extended as much as physically possible. The World Champion lands softly on the mat as Kane begins writhing in agony like a fish out of water, tending to his right hamstring.

Seth Ericson: I think I tore my hammy just looking at that, Dick.

Dick Morosi: Kane’s leg just got stretched in a way it wasn’t supposed to be. Strike knew exactly what he was doing there. He’s trying to make it impossible for the challenger to climb a ladder, and with moves like that one his plan might just end up a success.

With a confident smirk etched on his Brazilian mug, the two time World Champion climbs to a stand and grabs Kane’s legs, before setting them up in the corner. The middle weight then grabs hold of the ladder, closes it, and prepares it for use. As Christian stares up at the ceiling, his legs remain propped up on the turnbuckle padding while his right continues to throb from the effects of the last debilitating move - meanwhile the War Machine charges. The grizzled vet rams the top of the steel object right into his opponent’s legs, causing him to immediately grab his aforementioned limbs as he groans loudly in pain. The Coloradoan sets the ladder down for a moment, before grabbing his foe by the head and dragging him out of the corner. With a malevolent look in his eyes, Chris steps onto his foe’s face and turns, twisting his handsome mug as the crowd boos. Kane rolls over and begins getting up, the brash, and cocky World Champion begging him to as he does so. Strike shoves him into the corner, then grabs the middle rope on each sides and bends forward. Afterward, he thrusts his shoulder into the Torontonian’s breadbasket, but it’s expected, as CK immediately wraps an arm around his head.

The challenger spins around and pushes his foe into the corner, then immediately clubs him over the back several times before releasing him, then cracking him in the mouth with a vicious knee strike. From there he grabs the ropes and thrusts his shoulder into the World Champion’s midsection in the same fashion that he just attempted. Several slams into the midsection later, the Canadian Sensation begins to feed off the crowd’s energy as they cheer him on, watching as he lifts the World Champion up onto the top turnbuckle. Kane slowly backs away from the corner and grabs the ladder off the canvas. The Ontario native points the ladder right at Strike, before driving it right into the Brazilian’s gut. The World Champion yelps in pain whilst he grabs the top ring cables, preventing him from falling from his perch and crashing to the floor below. Christian drops the ladder back to the canvas, before pulling himself onto the low turnbuckle; he tucks the War Machine’s head into his armpit, and lifts Strike over his shoulder. The crowd rises to the occasion out of their very seats in anticipation. Kane clenches a handful of the Brazilian’s tights and tosses him overhead before the two competitors come crashing down from the top rope, landing right onto the ladder several feet below. The impact of the Superplex sends the whole ring-set quivering to the aprons as the crowd ignites.

Dick Morosi: Right onto the ladder! Neither one of them will feel the same after that.

Seth Ericson: This is for the biggest prize in our industry. Winning the EXODUS World Championship means that much to Christian Kane and he’s willing to put both himself, and Strike on the injured reserve list to do so.

Both men lay motionless on the mat, with Kane seated on the canvas with his back leaning against the top of the ladder, while Strike lays on top of the rungs, in no particular hurry to move a muscle - not that he can anyway. He merely winces in agony, feeling as if his body just went through a car crash. Finally, Christian gathers himself first, clinging to the ropes to pull himself to a standing position. CK shakes off his right leg a bit, realizing he’ll have to bare through the pain to continue things. He slowly makes his way to the opposite side of the ring where a ladder lays outside of the ring, and quickly slides through the ropes before hopping down to ringside. A few crowd members clap in approval, as the challenger looks like he might be closing in on victory. Taking a moment to get a breather, The Handsome Drifter slowly heaves the unfolded ladder at waist level, carrying it toward the ring apron. The canvas scrapes and scratches as the friction of the metallic instrument is slid in under the ropes. Once he reenters the squared circle, Kane picks up the ladder and sets it up underneath the EXODUS World title, the crowd urging their favorite to make the long climb to grab his prosperity. Christian begins his ascent, and manages to get three quarters up the way before reaching for the belt, only to realize he’s slightly too far away.

Meanwhile, the World Champion slides off the ladder and onto his chest. With a grimace, he stares forward to see what’s transpiring, and like an air-raid siren, he quickly springs up to his feet. In the time it takes for the challenger to register, and rectify his error, Strike is right at his heels. The Machine halts the Canadian’s momentum with a clubbing blow to the back. Chris then steps onto the second rung of the ladder to make sure he can fully reach his opponent, before hooking Kane’s arms and clasping his hands around the back of his neck. Knowing what’s on the horizon, the EXODUS faithful come to their feet if they’re not already standing, the Brazilian not taking his eyes off his target, or wasting any valuable time - instead he throws himself backward and drags The Handsome Drifter off the ladder and down to the canvas with him, Kane’s head and neck being spiked into the canvas with authority, folding underneath his legs which continue to move backward under the momentum of the throw.

Dick Morosi: Woah! Dragon Suplex! He pulled him down from the ladder and slammed him head first into the canvas.

Seth Ericson: Big move, big freaking move from the World Champion. Kane won’t be getting up from that any time soon.
As Kane’s body slowly unfolds itself like an accordion, the War Machine stares up at the World Championship, knowing that he could very well climb up and get it at this point in the match. However, he turns his head right and sees his Christian’s near lifeless body, and a thought runs through his mind. Chris slowly slides under the bottom rope and out of the ring. The Colorado native reaches under the apron and pulls out a coil of barbed wire before tossing it back into the squared circle and sliding back in himself. With a twinkle of malice in his pupils, Strike takes the stand of barbed wire, about six feet of it, and places his hands on two places to stretch a length of it between his clutches. As Kane pulls himself up onto all fours, the two time World Champion walks behind him, then reaches over his head with the barbed wire before pulling it back to dig into the challenger’s forehead. About two or three gashes immediately open along the Canadian Sensation’s brow, the blood beginning to flow from the wounds as he screams and tries to push the wire off of his forehead.

Seth Ericson: Strike is trying to spill all the bad blood between these two with that coil of barbed wire!

Dick Morosi: This is down right sick, Seth. He could’ve climbed the ladder and won this thing already. This is about torturing, and bludgeoning Kane.

Kane backs up to ease the pressure as Strike backpedals along with him, Christian managing to force the barbed wire from around his facial features for a split second which provides him with a window of opportunity to swing his left leg up, to score with a blind low blow - a very legal, and humane tactic considering what he just endured. The War Machine drops coil and collapses to his knees in pain, while Kane rolls away and covers his face. From there, CK turns toward the belligerent Brazilian, his face undergoing a metamorphosing into a crimson mask with each passing second as blood pours down his face, before he swings his left leg around to slam the top of his foot into his foe’s temple, knocking the World Champion down to his side. Kane grabs the length of barbed wire at one point with both hands, leaning up on his knees as Strike begins to push himself up onto his hands and knees, and wings the wire overheard where it whips the Brazilian across the back, the barbs latching onto his flesh and ripping into him as he gasps loudly in pain. Christian gets up and snatches the barbed wire back to rip out of his foe’s spinal region and tear the skin even further, Strike grunting in pain in response whilst he climbs to his feet. CK immediately lifts the barbed wire overhead and swings it, but Strike ducks and strafes to the right. Kane pulls the wire back toward him to prepare for another swing, but The War Machine moves in and rises as he throws his burrows his left knee into his foe’s solar plexus. Without a moment’s hesitation, the World Champion applies a front facelock before dropping down to plant his foe face first into the canvas with a DDT.

Dick Morosi: Strike just bounced Kane’s head right off the mat there.

Seth Ericson: That’s how you turn the tables, Dick!

With Kane lying face down, Strike reaches for the barbed wire but it is just out of his reach, so he leans to the left to catch his breath before quickly rolling to the right, before crawling out of the ring, and onto both feet as they hit the arena floor. He turns to the seated crowd in front of him, placing both hands on his hips; dropping his head as he takes he tries to gather himself. Stunned by still alive and kicking, Christian Kane backpedals on his belly underneath the bottom rope much the same. CK makes his way around the ring-post outside the squared circle, catching Strike off guard as he takes him off his feet with a brutal Clothesline just as the champion turns around. Taking the reigns now, Kane leans down to hook his foe’s shoulder whilst taking a handful of hair. Upon lifting the Brazilian to his feet, he heaves his carcass straight into the steel barrier in-front of the EXODUS crowd. The impact sends the barrier backwards into the front seats, then the barrier bounces back to a stand still. With Strike indisposed, Kane collapses onto the arena floor and begins to rummage around. After a few seconds, Strike stumbles back to a stand, and looks around for his nemesis. Seeing Kane’s feet flailing while his upper body vanishes under the ring, the War Machine plods toward him. He walks behind the Canadian Sensation, grabbing both his feet, then turning to an angle to pull the prone challenger out from under the ring where it is revealed that he holds a kendo stick in his hands. Thinking quickly, Christian kicks the World Champion in the stomach before doing a sit-up to get within swinging range of Strike, at which he points he lifts the kendo stick overhead and brings it down on the back of the Brazilian’s cranium.

*CRACK*

Kane rolls backward with his weapon of choice before climbing to his feet, running with it in hand before swinging, the weapon connecting with the back of Strike’s head and neck - the shot reverberating throughout the arena as Chris falls onto his hands and knees. Christian wanders back, approaching his rival with the stick held in a striking position. He slowly lifts the shirunai overhead, before bringing it down like a hammer.

*CRACK*

The kendo stick slams right across Chris Strike’s lower back. The World Champion lets out an agonizing yell at the impact of the vicious attack.

*CRACK*

Again, the kendo stick is slammed into Strike’s spine. Kane’s eyes widen with rage, while his face coagulates with blood and sweat. The Brazilian drops down and rolls onto his back, convulsing in agony from the attacks. Sneering down at his foe, Christian continues his assault. He speeds up the shots, slamming the kendo stick in rapid succession as he tenderizes the World Champion’s body like a piece of steak.

*CRACK, CRACK, CRACK*

The wood of the kendo stick continues to connect over and over again with Strike’s midsection, the champion writhing in pain as a reflex. Kane hits him a few more times until he gets bored and tosses the cane to the side - the crowd cheering loudly after having their bloodthirst satisfied for the moment.

Seth Ericson: Christian Kane was out there chucking wood like - well, like Christian Kane in a room full of unmarried women.

Dick Morosi: This match has divulged into barbarism, and pure chaos. These two are simply out to beat the living daylights out of each other - winning the World Championship has seemingly been pushed to the back burner.

While Strike remains down, Kane is busy searching under the apron of the ring. Alas, he flips the ring apron up and pulls out yet another ladder. Rung-by-rung it slides out from under the ring. The Canadian Sensation sets the ladder upright against the ring apron. Christian turns back to the still downed Strike, and slowly pries him off up off the floor below. Once he’s on his feet, Kane attempts to whip Strike into the ladder - but the Champion turns, and executes an Irish Whip of his own, flinging the challenger face first into the steel instrument. The War Machine grabs Christian by the rim of his tights, dislodging from the ladder and pulling him back a few feet, before stepping forward and tossing him into the ladder for a second time. Stepping behind his foe now, Chris clutches the Canadian’s wrist, then pulls him off the ladder before spinning him right into a BURNING LARIAT! The Handsome Drifter lies spread eagled on the floor as The War Machine stands over top of him, the Susano’o having rendered his adversary incapacitated for the time being. Sensing that this is his moment to climb the ladder, Strike diverts his attention back towards the aforementioned implement, and slides into the squared circle. The Brazilian takes a few moments to taunt the crowd, raising a fist into the air to garner a chorus of boos before beginning his ascent up the silver ladder, with the clear intention of unhooking the title and emerging the victor of the brutal contest.

Seth Ericson: Well that’s that. Chris Strike is only a few seconds away from sending majority of this crowd into debt. That’s what you get for betting against The War Machine.

Dick Morosi: I wouldn’t count out Kane just yet, Seth. Look! He’s getting up to his feet, and he’s climbing onto the apron. Come on Christian, get back in there!

Realizing the situation, Christian Kane claws at the apron, scrambling to get in the ring. He strides hastily in-between the ropes, and dashes across what seems to be a mile-wide ring as Chris Strike takes his third and fourth steps up the ladder, ever-so-closer to his prize. The Handsome Drifter tackles the metal ladder with the force of a charging bull, toppling it over to the mat. The Canadian Sensation falls onto his knees, expecting to hear the sound of two hundred and twenty pounds of human canvas crashing to well - the canvas. But that sweet symphony doesn’t pierce his eardrums, causing him to investigate things. When he peers up, there’s a visible look of shock on his face as his eyes fall on Chris Strike dangling from the sky, his hands holding onto the EXODUS World Championship which he wholeheartedly refuses to let go of. Springing to his feet, Kane grabs his foe’s legs, attempting to pull him down but Strike maintains his grip of the belt. Rather than allow himself to be pulled down, Chris brings his legs inward before driving them outward, his feet being pressing into Christian’s chest as the momentum sends him staggering away. In mid stride, The Handsome Drifter turns toward the ropes and leaps onto the second cable, then onto the top for added elevation, before leaping backward and springboarding across the ring. In mid air he turns his body, deftly lifting and swinging his leg to crack the World Champion in the visage with a Roundhouse Kick. Both men come falling out of the sky and crashing to the mat below to as the crowd roars in approval. Strike deliriously rolls out of the ring, while Kane lies on the mat face first.

Dick Morosi: What a kick to the head! What a match we’re witnessing, Seth. These two are throwing out all the stops!

Seth Ericson: That’s why I love this company. Matches can turn on a dime, just like that. These two have beaten each other to a bloody pulp, yet they continue to show heart and resilience.

Dick Morosi: It doesn’t matter who you’re rooting for, you have to appreciate and respect what these two competitors are putting themselves through to leave here as the EXODUS World Champion.

Seth Ericson: At this rate neither one of them will be able to climb the ladder to reach the belt. And you know what, I wouldn’t mind another draw because hey, who doesn’t want to see THREE match of the year candidates from these two in a row.

The two competitors slowly get up as the crowd begin to trade dueling chants.

”LET’S GO KANE!”
“LET’S GO STRIKE!”
”LET’S GO KANE!”
“LET’S GO STRIKE!”

Both groups seem to not have much of a demographic difference but the former chant probably being directed more from the younger fans. A few seconds pass, as the Canadian slides out of the ring, whilst the Brazilian reaches his feet. Strike quickly gives a right and a left to Kane. Christian stumbles back and Chris throws another right hand but the challenger dodges it before grabbing that wrist. CK turns around and slings Kane in the direction of the steel ring post, but the champion puts his arms out on the apron to stop himself before he hits it. The Canadian immediately runs at the War Machine and loads his left arm one more, intent on delivering a Clothesline but Chris fires his right leg back and it hits the challenger in the stomach. The Handsome Drifter is nearly impaled on the Colorado resident’s leg before the champion turns around and tucks Christian’s head under his arm. Strike, with his opponent in tow, walks backward toward the commentary table as Dick and Seth begin to contemplate getting out of dodge. The two combatants get in front of the table and Strike let’s Kane’s head out from under his arm. The War Machine then grabs the back of the challenger’s head before slamming him face-first onto the table, leaving a smudge of blood on the piece of furniture before CK slams his elbow into the champion’s gut and then grabs him by the head before slamming him face-first on the table. Instead of letting go, however, the Canadian Sensation lifts his foe’s head up and plants his face into the top of the table one more time before stepping back as Strike leans forward on the desk, his arms stretched over the top of it.

Seth Ericson: It looks like they’re bringing the fight over here, Dick. That means our table is about to go bye bye. I swear to God they just won’t let us have anything.

Dick Morosi: That’s the least of my concern, Seth. If one of these guys does end up going through our table, you can bet in their current condition that their championship dreams will be going with them as well.

Kane walks over to the apron, grabbing the ladder that was placed there from earlier before sliding it into the ring. He turns his attention back to the champion, who unfortunately has already recovered, and more importantly, has taken the cover off of the announcer’s table and stripped one of the monitors out. Strike charges at Christian with a monitor in his hands, the challenger turning around only to receive the side of it to his face as he crashes down, landing against the ring apron again. The War Machine walks back over the announcer’s table and puts the monitor back on top of it before making his way back to the challenger. Strike grabs CK’s head and pulls him to his feet before grabbing the waist of his tights and throwing him under the bottom rope before sliding in after him. The World Champion grabs the ladder Kane slid in mintues ago and stands it up against the ropes, before leaning down to grab the aforementioned Canadian around the head and pull him to a stand. Grabbing his foe by the arm, Strike whips Kane to the ropes, and attempts at Back Body Drop - only for CK to counter with a kick to the shoulder. As Chris lifts up, Kane begins to scoop him up onto his shoulders, only for the champion to counter, as he slips behind his adversary. Quickly pivoting on his heels, Kane turns around with a Clothesline - but misses, and and the two once again change position. Once the Canadian turns around he’s stunned by a series of Kesagiri chops, followed by a spinning Kesagiri that turns the Drifter around, allowing Strike to slip behind him and apply a Half Nelson. After a brief moment of anticipation, the World Champion violently explodes his hips and leans back to drag Christian off his feet and launch him head first into the ladder positioned on the ropes!

Dick Morosi: Aku Soku Zan! He finished that sequence by delivering a Half Nelson right into the ladder!

Seth Ericson: Kane could’ve been broken in half, Dick. That was down right sick! I think I hear Dr. Kueller ordering him a mail order spine as we speak.

Dick Morosi: Both men have given each other just about equal punishment and it’s been back and forth for majority of the contest.

Seth Ericson: They know each other so well, from the movesets down to the mannerisms and because of that you’ve seen both men try to be as innovative as possible, try to think as much outside the box as they humanly can. One of these guys has an ace up their sleeve, and that guy is leaving here with the title.

Strike slowly gets up as the commentators talk their heads off, Kane somewhat folded up against the ladder until the champ grabs him by the wrists and pulls him backward, before dragging him to a stand. The War Machine shoves Kane into the corner, then blasts him with a European Uppercut to keep him at bay. Chris then backs away, grabbing the ladder off the ropes and turning it sideways in front of him and sliding it between the top and middle ropes, before stepping back as the Canadian Sensation continues to stand dazed in the corner. With a sick smile on his face, the Brazilian runs and leaps when in rage with all four limbs spread out - the World Champion splashes the ladder, driving the weapon into Kane’s chest with significant force and weight behind it. Strike then pulls on the ladder, prying it out of the corner and as it falls, Kane comes with it, landing on top of it. With Christian seemingly out of it, Strike grabs one of the other three ladders in the ring, and drags it underneath the title. The Brazilian lets out an anguished look as he realizes how high up the ladder is, but nevertheless, the champ begins to slide his hands up the ladder’s rungs and drag his right leg with him, climbing up despite the pain shooting through his body. The few members of the crowd on his side start to cheer, but they’re quickly drowned out by the rest of the arena that boos vehemently as the War Machine makes his way up his equivalent of Everest.

Seth Ericson: That’s all she wrote. Kane kept it interesting, but in the end the finish was never in doubt.

Dick Morosi: That’s not even remotely accurate, but you may end up being right anyway.

Strike drags his weary and battered body up to halfway marker of the ladder, before stopping, the extortion on his body taken it’s toll. After a few seconds to regain some of his energy the champ resumes upon the task of climbing the steel structure and regaining his World Championship. The Brazilian reaches the three quarter stage of the ladder and reaches for the belt, but is a few inches too short from his grasp. Meanwhile, The Handsome Drifter pulls himself up off the ladder, gritting his teeth as he pushes through the pain to get to his feet. Christian immediately realizes the plight he’s in and scrambles to his feet, before scaling the ladder and grabbing Strike’s legs. The champ tries to kick his leg free, but like a dog with a rope it it’s mouth Kane relentlessly holds on. As he climbs down the ladder, the challenger brings his rival with him, and once he’s on the canvas, Christian gives a mighty tug to pull the War Machine off the steel structure and onto the mat. Upon landing, Chris greets Kane with a wicked forearm shot that staggers the Canadian to a chorus of boos. After shaking the cobwebs, CK retaliates with a blistering forearm of his own, garnering loud cheers as the World Champion staggers in place - but remains standing, allowing him to fire back with an even STIFFER forearm shot. This one almost sends Kane down, and though he remains standing, his legs buckle from the impact. Seeing this, the champ winds up for a finishing shot, as he steps forward with a Clothesline attempt - but only catches air. Christian circumvents the maneuver, then sidesteps, before throwing his leg at the turning champ’s chin, knocking the already moving Brazilian to the mat as his head recoils from the Super Kick. The Handsome Drifter immediately hits the mat as well, a combination of effort required to save the match and the force of his leg jarring against the champ’s jaw taking all the energy he had right out of his system.

Dick Morosi: SSK! SSK! SSK! Kane hit it! And suddenly he’s right in the driver’s seat.

Seth Ericson: That came out of nowhere, and Strike looks out of it. This is Kane’s chance now.

Both men remain on the canvas as the crowd cheers for their favorite after his show of resilience. Kane turns onto his stomach and raises himself onto his right knee, before crawling towards the base of the ladder and clutching at the bottom rung with his fingertips. With his face a mixture of blood and sweat, Christian takes a deep, anguish filled breath before embarking on the most important climb of his life. The short climbs feels like an eternity to the Handsome Drifter, feeling like he’s aging ten years with each passing rung. With the elusive EXODUS World Championship hanging above him Kane extends his arm toward it, but fails to reel it in as he merely grasps at thin air. The crimson coated sweat begins to cascade from his brow, his nerves setting in as the object in the sky taunts him, beckoning him to climb another rung. He reaches yet again, but fails once more, only able to get a fingertip on the prestigious prize. The Canadian Sensation lets out a loud groan as he climbs another rung, nearly reaching the very top of the ten foot structure as the rest of the world looks so small from his perch. As he thrusts his hand outward for a third time, he notices the ladder begin to tilt rapidly, as if it’s been moved from its stationary position. He looks down to find Chris Strike at the bottom looking up at him, before his vision turns to the corner where he crashes from the ladder and lands face first onto the top turnbuckle. Kane staggers out of the corner from the point of impact before simply flopping onto his back beside the fallen ladder, while the World Champion himself falls into the ropes. With the action at a stand still, the crowd voices their approval of the high octane action.

“THIS IS AWESOME!”
*CLAP-CLAP -CLAP-CLAP-CLAP*
“THIS IS AWESOME!”
*CLAP-CLAP -CLAP-CLAP-CLAP*

Dick Morosi: Strike with the save, but can’t capitalize! These two look like they’re running on fumes, Seth.

Seth Ericson: And they’ve used up the reserve tank for their reserve tanks. This is anyone’s match.

Dick Morosi: And the crowd can’t get enough, Seth. Listen to them. They’re loving what they’re seeing, and we haven’t even had anyone fall from a fifteen foot ladder or go through a single table for that matter, and despite that these two are still putting on a show.

Seth Ericson: Yeah, about that table thing. You might have spoken too soon there slick.

As Seth had eluded to, the War Machine had slipped out of the ring and lifted up the ring apron to pull two tables from underneath. He slides one of them into the ring, while standing the second up beside the ring apron. Strike slides back into the ring, bending down to grab the wooden table before standing it up in the corner. As he catches his breath he notices Kane beginning to stir, while Christian sees him coming in the corner of his eye and stands up. The champion throws a right hand, but it is knocked away before Kane throws a right hand of his own that connects with the champ’s jaw. Strike stumbles back and Kane steps forward, only to receive a kick to the stomach that helps the Brazilian regain his balance. The Brazilian immediately lowers his shoulder before shooting his left fist up and hitting Christian in the jaw with a vicious European Uppercut that stands him straight up. Kane stands in an apparent daze from the shot before Strike grabs his arm and whips him toward the table in the corner - but CK drops down to a knee at the eleventh hour, halting his momentum in time to prevent himself from an unwanted collision. As he turns around and climbs back to his feet he sees Strike coming right at him in a forward lunge - and counters with superior reaction. Using his foe’s own momentum against him, The Handsome Drifter captures the champion in his embrace, before falling backwards and releasing him to make the Colorado resident flip forward and land back-first onto the table, breaking it in two. Strike doesn’t even make a sound, or move a muscle, as he simply lays in a heap of sweat and splintered table.

Dick Morosi: What a Belly to Belly Suplex! He sent Chris Strike THROUGH the table, Seth!

Seth Ericson: This match hasn’t disappointed in terms of wrestling or violence. Regardless of who wins this thing, they may have to vacate the title by tomorrow because of what they’re going through tonight!

Christian Kane gets up to one knee, his chest heaving wildly, lungs burning from the profound exertion he’s put on himself to finally trump The War Machine. And it does appear to be the case, as Chris Strike’s oculars slam shut, his soma inert. The crowd roars in anticipation, feeling as if this is finally it, that this is finally his moment of glory. Battling the pain and the injuries his no doubt sustained, Kane climbs to his feet and staggers like a blind drunkard in a tavern, yet finds his way toward one of the ladders and grabs it. The camera pans into the Canadian’s bludgeoned face, capturing the thousand yard stare that is affixed on his countenance, an expression that will become an iconic picture played out in EXODUS lore for years to come. With a groan Kane stands the ladder up, then drags it into the center of the ring before burying his face into one of the rungs. He takes a series of deep breaths, as he mentally prepares himself for the tall task ahead, the impossible job of climbing a ten foot ladder in his weakened state. Willing his body to cooperate, the challenger finds his footing, and once he does, it’s obvious what his next course of action will be - climb!

Dick Morosi: Kane’s EXODUS career is a few moments from coming Full Circle. All he has to do is climb that ladder, Seth. The belt is his for the taking. Come on CK, get your ass up there and live your dream.

Seth Ericson: But the dream killer's awake, Dick. Strike just won’t die.

Indeed, Chris Strike is up and about, having rolled out of the ring and onto the apron, before pulling himself up to a stand. Realizing that the champion has some fight left in him, Kane foregoes climbing the ladder and opts to put the The War Machine out of commission. Christian steps forward and grabs the middle rope, then bends down and shoves a shoulder into the midsection of the last man to wear the WEAPON mask. The World Champion feels the air expel right out of his lungs, but instead of succumbing to the agony, he quickly grabs a hold of the top rope, using it to swinging himself into the air and blast his nemesis in the side of the head with an Enziguri. The maneuver successfully stuns Carson, allowing the Brazilian to trap his foe in a front facelock, before lifting Kane’s arm over his shoulder. From there he hoists Christian overhead, before setting him down onto the apron. Once the Canadian Sensation's feet hit the apron, Strike takes a hold of his nearest leg, hooking it before turning and leaping off said apron - he twists in mid air before driving the challenger’s head down onto the wooden table. The frail piece of furniture succumbs to the weight of the two men, and cracks in two as both competitors lie in a heap on the floor. Kane’s body is completely motionless while Strike remains sprawled and inert, the fatigue setting in as the vestige of adrenaline subsides, his weary eyes staring into the ceiling lights that shine upon his battered carcass before they close, the physical condition both of he and his foe showing no signs of improvement.

Seth Ericson: WOAH! Kane’s dead! He’s dead! HE’S FREAKING DEAD!

Dick Morosi: Mjöllnir! Strike just drove him through the table with that Twisting Fisherman Buster DDT!

The War Machine spaghetti legs his way vertical and slowly, and heavily plods his way over to the ring apron, retrieving a GIGANTIC ladder before standing it up against the apron and the ropes. From there he bends down to grab the legs, then uses every ounce of strength in his body to flip the steel instrument into the ring before taking a moment to catch his breath and plot his next move. The contemplation ceases as the recuperated champion slowly crawls into the ring and climbs to his feet. The World Champion turns his attention to the massive ladder he just threw in the ring, bending down to grab it before carrying it in his arms toward the center of the ring. There he stands it up, a few feet away from his title which hands in the air as the height of the fully erect structure matches that of the suspended World Championship. From there Strike walks over and grabs one of the three remains ladders in the ring, before setting it up across from the big one - creating twin towers of sorts. The architecting doesn’t stop there, as the Brazilian craftsman grabs the third ladder, and slides it through one of the lower rungs of the first tower before pushing it across until the top reaches one of the rungs on the second tower, creating a low bridge. Not finished just yet, the Colorado resident grabs the last ladder, beginning to create a high bridge as Christian Kane begins to stir on the outside. Sensing that the match is slipping away, The Handsome Drifter forces himself to one knee. CK clutches the ring apron and starts pulling. Inside the ring, Strike slowly climbs up onto the high bridge, using it as a stepping stone of sorts. Outside the squared circle, Kane manages to get to his feet, as he leans on the apron for a moment whilst looking up at his nemesis. The War Machine begins to ascend the biggest tower, creating a sense of urgency in the mind of the challenger who climbs under the bottom rope and slithers into the ring, crawling for a moment as he gets up. With every ounce of strength he can muster, the former International Champion pulls himself up onto the opposite side of high bridge, causing Strike to climb down from the tall tower to meet him.

Seth Ericson: This is going to end badly, Dick. There standing up there in no man’s land, probably ten or twelve feet above the ring, I can’t even tell.

Dick Morosi: The winner of this showdown wins the match, it’s that simple. It’s all come down to this, Seth. They’re laughing in the face of danger as they prepare for what could be the biggest fist fight in EXODUS history.

Kane and Strike stare daggers at each other while both simultaneously try to balance themselves along the top bridge. The two combatants inch closer to one another as they try to send the other off the mountain top. The challenger is the first to draw blood in this pivotal moment in the contest, as he slams a right hand right into the the champion’s mouth. Chris falls back into the high tower, then leans forward to retaliate with a STIFF forearm. The Canadian teeters and wavers on his heels from the point of impact, but manages to keep his footing much to his rival’s chagrin. Following that opening salvo, both competitors begin to trade blows atop the contraption.

RIGHT HAND!
STIFF FOREARM!
RIGHT HAND!
STIFF FOREARM!

It seems even until Kane traps the champion in a front facelock, delivering two quick left hands and a knee to the gut. The Handsome Drifter then throws his foe’s arm over his shoulder before grabbing his thighs, the crowd looking on with apprehensive anticipation. From there Christian attempts to lift the War Machine into the air, but Strike holds his ground. Relentless, the Canadian Sensation tries once again, but the second Suplex attempt is thwarted as well. There is no third attempt - as the World Champion quickly unloads on the challenger’s rib-cage with right hand after right hand, forcing Christian to relinquish the facelock. Having forcefully liberated himself, the veteran resorts to an underhanded tactic to gain the decisive advantage, as he quickly drives his foot between Kane’s legs. The crowd boos in response, as the energy, wind, and fight is drained right out of the challenger’s system. Kane is doubled over due to the low blow, and from there Strike steps forward to reach around Christian’s midsection, proceeding to hoists him upside down and into the air as the crowd begins cheering, not in support of the villain but in response to what they know is about to happen.

Dick Morosi: Oh My God… No… NOOOO!

Strike then hooks his arms around one of Kane’s legs and leaps into the air, before dropping down to a sitting position to drive the challenger’s head and upper body into the high bridge. The ladder trembles from the impact, then snaps under the pressure of holding up the combined weight. While Chris tumbles down unceremoniously to the canvas and rolls out of the ring holdign his neck, the War Machine remains perched on the low bridge, resting with his back against the high tower, visibly winded amidst the fanfare of the ruckus crowd.

“HOLY SHIT!”
“HOLY SHIT!”
“HOLY SHIT!”
“HOLY SHIT!”

Seth Ericson: NEPENTHEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!

Dick Morosi: I - I - I can’t believe what I just saw. I can’t believe what I just saw, Seth.

Finally showing signs of life, Strike slowly pulls himself up to a stand, and turns around to face the tall tower before gradually ascending the ladder one rung at a time. Once he’s at the top, the War Machine reaches over and grabs the EXODUS World Championship. With no one to stop him, Chris Strike unhooks the belt, pulling it over to himself before raising it high into the air as senior referee Brian Lowery calls for the bell. As the bell chimes thrice, the crowd boos as loudly as they possible can, sending a wave of detestation and hatred in the direction of the man who stands at the top of the world, overlooking the masses.

David Zinkus: Here’s your winner and STILL the EXODUS World Champion, The War Machine… Chris! STRIKEEEEEEEEEEE!

With a crimson mask, and torn and tattered body, Chis Strike holds his belt up with both hands now as Reika applauds from ringside, having watched the entire contest without ever intruding as the champion's urging. The War Machine vowed to go at it alone, and he prevailed.

WINNER (and STILL World Champion): Chris Strike

Seth Ericson: What a Main Event! I'm still stunned. Chris Strike retains the EXODUS World Championship after a superhuman, and I mean SUPERHUMAN effort from Christian Kane. Both men gave it their all, and they left it all in the ring, but in the end, Chris Strike was able to outlast The Handsome Drifter tonight.

Dick Morosi: It took a low blow to do it, Seth. What a cheap way to win a classic encounter. If Strike had a soul he'd feel guilty, he'd feel like he didn't deserve to hold that championship.

Strike slowly climbs down from the structure, meeting Reika in the ring as she slips underneath his arm, placing it over her shoulder as she serves as the champion's crutch. The wounded War Machine, with a grin etched on his mug holds the belt into the air once again to another smattering of boos and jeers.

Seth Ericson: You can nit pick and complain about how we got to the finish, Dick. All that matters is that the guy who came into the building the champion, is leaving out of the building the champion. That's what's important.

Dick Morosi: Maybe. That shouldn't overshadow Christian Kane's efforts tonight. That was one of his finest, no that was an all time performance he gave.

Seth Ericson: And it still wasn't enough, because Chris Strike is still the EXODUS World Champion, and there's not a goddamn person walking this Earth who can stop this man right now.

Dick Morosi: Wait a minute, Seth!

Strike’s celebrating comes to a screeching halt as “Corrosion Of Conformity” by Albatross cuts in over the speakers, the crowd’s booing managing to grow even louder as Christum Furor appears on top of the stage, the Honor Cup in his hand and, unfortunately, a mic in the other. He walks down the ramp slowly, letting Strike take in fully what lies ahead of him. Strike has never seemed unhappier, as Furor pulls himself up onto the apron and enters the ring. With a few steps he comes to stand in front of Strike, the Honor Cup holder facing down the EXODUS World champion. Furor raises the mic to his lips and speaks.

Christum Furor: Christopher.

He begins in his usual maniacal tone, as everyone in the arena prepares for the sermon.

Christum Furor: It’s been almost a year now, since you buried me alive. And in that span I've watched you prance around my dominion, pretending to be a deity, pretending to be the king of kings.

The Honor Cup winner points at the EXODUS World Championship which is draped across Strike's shoulder.

Christum Furor: But heavy is the head that wears the crown, and I can see through my third eye how much that burden effects you. It forces you to play with powers you can't control. It forces you to sell your soul to the devil. Well Christopher, I've seen the devil. I've talked to him. Do you want to know what he said to me?

The eloquent madman cracks a sinister grin as he runs his hands through his black locks.

Christum Furor: He told me that it's time to collect. You're time is up, Christopher. You've been playing God for a long, long time but I AM GOD... and I've come back to make YOU and EXODUS kneel before me once again-

He’s stopped in the middle of whatever unholy tangent he was about to go on by the sound of “Rocket Dive” by hide which begins to blare over the speakers, as Nicholas Gray steps out onto the stage. His expression is unreadable as he begins to walk down the ramp, the fans cheering this rare appearance from the EXODUS majority owner. He enters the ring and stops for a moment to take stock of what’s going on. He looks right at Furor for a moment, before moving to Strike, bringing a microphone up.

Nicholas Gray: Strike, I know you’re going to want to have your proper celebration and all. And I know you’re going to want to say some things to this guy, but let me have a few minutes with him first, huh?

Strike looks ready to respond, but Gray cuts him off.

Nicholas Gray: Just a few. And then you can have the ring all to yourself. Please, champ?

He gives Strike a smile, and Strike finally seems to relent, stepping back and exiting through the ropes, sitting himself on the announce table to watch. Gray turns, and faces Furor. His smile has disappeared.

Nicholas Gray: Furor.

The two time EXODUS World Champion cracks his neck at the sound of his name, before raising the microphone to his lips to duel with the majority owner.

Christum Furor: Nicholas Gray, the majority profiteer of our blood, sweat and tears. How rare it is to see you walk among the livestock. And here I was beginning to think you were a ghost.

The madman cackles, as Gray brushes off the insults.

Nicholas Gray: I try to just do what I need to backstage, and let others handle what’s going on out here.

He pauses a moment, a smile coming back to his face.

Nicholas Gray: But I’ve come to realize that the time for that has passed me by. I can’t stay backstage and watch while all of this happens, while people still try to burn my company to the ground. And so you know what, Furor?

The Honor Cup Winner quickly retorts.

Christum Furor: What Gray, what do you have to tell the man who knows everything? What do you have to say to GOD?

Gray reaches forward, and pokes his finger against the Honor Cup still held in Furor’s hand.

Nicholas Gray: I’m actually glad you won this. Because I really, truly, honestly could not imagine a person better for THIS.

Furor raises an eyebrow.

Christum Furor: And just what is… ”this”?

Gray grins now, raising one hand.

Nicholas Gray: Saving EXODUS.

He snaps his fingers.

And they appear.

At once the members of the Storm appear, sans the hurting Ruby, hopping the barrier at the same time, rushing into the ring. Furor turns to face them, dropping his Cup, but is suddenly nailed in the fact by a Gourd-Head from Abby Park, sending him to the mat. And the moment he’s down, Abby and Saikosoma are on him, stomping boot after boot down onto him, as Beowulf works at wrapping something around his hand. Gray watches on with a smile before distracted by something.

On the stage appears the young woman who so brutally attacked Anderson Cobalt earlier, Jolyne Dysart. She waves to him before starting to run down the ramp. Gray’s smile disappears, and he makes a hand motion, and another figure hops the barrier. By her incredibly large, green mohawk, she’s instantly recognizable as Stacey-X, the eternally patient girlfriend of Beowulf. She grabs Jolyne by the shoulders and stops her in her tracks.

Nicholas Gray: Keep her out of this!

The majority owner of EXODUS seems very annoyed, looking at the young woman.

Nicholas Gray: She’s done enough for one night.

Jolyne’s face falls at this, turning to a look of hurt. In the ring, the hurt continues on Furor, as Abby grabs him and pulls him to his feet, allowing Saikosoma to first drive two of her fingers into his throat for her Gom Jabber! Furor sputters in pain, and likely would have fallen limp to the mat if not for Abby holding him, keeping him up as Beowulf takes a short run, jumping and SMASHING his chain-wrapped fist right into the face of Christum Furor, giving him a Falcon Punch!

Dick Morsoi: Good God this is a mugging. They're tearing the number one contender to shreds!

Furor crumples to the mat onto his side, looking as if he’s barely conscious, blood running down his face from being opened up by Beowulf’s chain-fist. Gray walks over to him and actually boots him in the face once, rolling Furor over onto his back. He kneels down so he can better look at Furor’s face, smiling.

Nicholas Gray: Honestly, we should finish you off right now. But...I did make a promise that the only one who could finish you off is him…

Strike, who’s been watching this with no small amount of interest, suddenly has his expression change to one of shock as someone hops onto the commentary table from the barrier, hopping off of it and sliding straight into the ring, the crowd going silent as they see him. He moves straight on to Furor’s prone body, grabbing him around the head and pulling him up, having him in an inverted facelock, quickly lifting Furor up.

And Kira T. Zeppeli plants Furor down to the mat with the Feeding Time.

The eater of Despair comes to his feet, and even in the ring the reaction isn’t warm. The three members of the Storm look displeased, especially Beowulf, while Gray’s can’t be read. He reaches down and retrieves his microphone, dropped in the chaos. He looks down at Furor’s unconscious body before speaking.

Nicholas Gray: This is how you protect EXODUS! Not by talking about what needs to be done, about what should be done, but by doing it! No longer will those who would do this company harm be allowed to walk through these halls without trouble. Hell, when we’re done, they won’t walk at all. This is the defense this company has lacked. This is the only solution.

He pauses a moment, raising an arm to indicate everyone in this. Abby. Saikosoma. Stacey-X. Jolyne. Kira. Beowulf. Himself. And then he smiles.

Nicholas Gray: This...is the IMPERIUM that will protect EXODUS.

And on this sight...of a beaten and unconscious Christum Furor, of a crowd that seems uncertain as to what to make of this, a world champion that finally looks the same as the crowd he hates, and the Imperium that’s caused all of this…

We fade to copyright.