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The scene slowly fades in to the backstage area after all that, where we see Tom Matheny standing by. He's got his microphone in his right hand and a small smile on his face as he waits for the camera to start rolling and for him to start his job of interviewing.

Tom Matheny: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome at this time....BLAKE JONES!

The San Diego audience lets out a solid pop as the Philly Young Gun makes his way into the scene, dressed in street clothes (dark blue jeans and a orange and black Flyers tee). He does not seem ready to go here tonight as there seems to be no gym bag in sight. He keeps a stoic look about him as he looks out past the camera.

Blake Jones: If you don't mind, Tom. I'd prefer if you didn't ask me any questions and just give me the microphone so I can just get these things off my chest.

Tom looks at Blake with confusion.

Tom Matheny: Oh...ok. Here you go.

Blake turns to Tom and is handed the microphone before Tom steps out of camera view. Blake turns to the camera, a sigh escaping him as he slowly begins to speak.

Blake Jones: I'm going to start off this little talk with an apology. I apologize for the fact that I won't be wrestling here tonight. I won't be wrestling because as of 12:00AM Friday, I am no longer signed to an EXODUS contract. Some of you may find this selfish of me but without a contract, I don't wrestle.

Blake lets out another sigh.

Blake Jones: I...don't plan on returning to EXODUS for the time being. I have ended my one year contract here and I honestly have had a lot of fun and I've been through a lot of damn good matches. I will forever remember my War Games victory and my San Diego Bay title victory. I've made some great friends and I've had some dickish enemies...

Jones waves at the camera.

Blake Jones: Hi Daisuke.

Shots of audience members chuckling at the fate Daisuke suffered thanks to Blake Jones and company.

Blake Jones: But for now, this is goodbye, EXODUS. Maybe I'll be back one day. Maybe I won't and you guys will just move on and watch some of the greater talent here do work. I just want to thank each and every person whose cheered me on. I wanna thank everyone who has doubted me, because it has managed to have drive me even more. And I want to thank all of my opponents in the past for the fights that they've given me.

Blake nods his head and gives the camera a big smile.

Blake Jones: Be seeing you around, EXODUS.

Blake hands the mic back to Tom Matheny (who's gotten back into view) before giving the camera one last nod and shaking Tom's hand. He slowly makes his way towards the exit as the scene finally fades out when he exits the arena, and we go back to Dick & Seth.

Seth Ericson: WHAT?! I can't make fun of him anymore?

Dick Morosi: This is a huge development, Seth. Blake Jones is no longer contracted to EXODUS Pro!

Seth Ericson: I'm of two minds on this. One, this is a huge loss, as we've lost one of our biggest stars. On the other hand, he kind of just pussed out here. What's up with that, man? I thought he was better than that.

Dick Morosi: Would you wrestle if Cleon Gray was punishing you?

Seth Ericson: Point made.

Dick Morosi: Let's just prepare for our next match! Ambrosia is making her EXODUS Pro debut against Justin Brooks...next!

SINGLES MATCH
AMBROSIA vs. JUSTIN BROOKS

The screen cuts into static and then a cacophony of different grotesque and bloody images, mixed with headlines from various newspapers of murders, mutilations, rapes and wars as "Apex Predator" by Otep plays.

Stepping out onto the stage, Ambrosia grins sadistically, letting out a scream to the sky as she cracks her neck to the left and right before walking down the ramp.

David Zinkus: Making her way to the ring, from Lexington, Kentucky, she is the "Harlequin of Hardcore"......AMBROSIA!!!

At this, Ambrosia walks around the ring before rolling in under the bottom rope. She looks out at the crowds, using the ropes as bars, like someone jailed within.

Getting back up, Ambrosia walks to the corner and steps up on the turnbuckle, grinning sadistically at the fans. Bringing her hands out to her sides, she mocks the fans and then drops back down to the ring before dropping to her knees and letting loose a guttural scream.

Dick Morosi: This girl from Lexington, Ambrosia. She’s got a unique look, and a lot of promise, but more importantly a tall task ahead of her.

Seth Ericson: Yeah, in the form of a six foot four, two hundred and sixty-seven pound hoss.

You were my conscience, so solid, now you're like water
And we started drowning, not like we'd sink any further
But I let my heart go, it's somewhere down at the bottom
But I'll get a new one and come back for the hope that you've stolen

I'll stop the whole world, I'll stop the whole world
From turning into a monster eating us alive
Don't you ever wonder how we survive?
Well now that you're gone, the world is ours

David Zinkus: Now coming to the ring...hailing from Atlanta, Georgia...standing at 6'4" and 267 pounds, he is Justin Brooks!

I'm only human, I've got a skeleton in me
But I'm not the villain, despite what you're always preaching.
Call me a traitor, I'm just collecting your victims
And they're getting stronger
I hear them calling.

(Calling, Calling)

I'll stop the whole world, I'll stop the whole world
From turning into a monster eating us alive
Don't you ever wonder how we survive?
Well now that you're gone, the world is ours

A large chorus of cheers erupt from the E-Pro faithful as Justin Brooks appears from the curtain and stands there with a smile on his face as he places his hands on his waist. “Monster” by Paramore continues to blast through the PA system as he keeps his eyes on the middle of the squared circle as he slowly makes his way towards the ring, sliding underneath the bottom rope and quickly standing to his feet and looks amongst the crowd with a large smile on his face. Justin just leaps to the second turnbuckle and throws his hands in the air before leaping down from the turnbuckle.

Dick Morosi: Brooks has picked up a lot of wins since his return. He’s looking to notch another one on his belt.

Seth Ericson: And beat Ambrosia with that belt in the process, and I won’t lie, I’d like to watch that.

The bell rings and Ambrosia clinches Justin’s neck, pulling him down into a textbook headlock. She knows she’ll have to use her speed, and do whatever she can to wear the Big Bad Brooks down to avoid being subjected to his might. The well traveled Georgian pushes the Kentuckian away, showing that his strength will not be nullified by the debuting rookie. Ambrosia looks less than impressed, and more importantly, not unflustered. She charges at him, ducking a Clothesline attempt, only to strafe behind him and plant her boots into his spinal column with a Dropkick, sending him flying forward. However, Justin uses his momentum to bounce off the ropes before coming back with a stiff Clothesline, almost turning her inside out. Brooks quickly pulls her up to a vertical base, looking to keep the advantage after just flattening her with the 20 inch python. He lifts her up with relative ease, then slams her down with a basic Body Slam - and although it may be a common move for powerhouses such as the UWL World Champion, it doesn’t mean that it’s any less painful. The proof is in Ambrosia’s face, as its contorted in a grimace. The Big L plays to the crowd, who are firmly behind him as they’ve been since he’s returned and put up a streak of impressive victories. As she rises, Brooks tosses her back with a German Suplex, but she lands on her feet with cat like reflexes. With Justin scrambling to get back to her feet, she quickly climbs up on top the top rope. As soon as the Atlantan turns around, she leaps off with a Missile Dropkick, sending the Heavyweight back down. Ambrosia immediately goes for the cover.

Dick Morosi: Ambrosia is firing on all cylinders right now after she withstood Justin’s opening offense. I’m definitely impressed.

”ONE!”

“TWO!- Kick Out”

Brooks uses his strength to toss the Kentuckian into the air to break the count. She quickly gets to her feet and scurries for the ropes, hitting Brooks with a Yakuza Kick just as soon as he ascended to a knee. She follows up with a standing Double Foot Stomp, driving her feet into Triple B’s sternum. She quickly goes for the cover again, trying to maintain the pace with hasty pinfalls.

”ONE!”

“TWO!- Kick Out”

Brooks powers out once again; he tries to scramble to his feet, but Ambrosia keeps the pressure on with repeated kicks to the chest and midsection. Having kept her adversary at bay, Ambrosia makes a beeline for the ropes. She rebounces, however Triple B is waiting for her. His embrace is anything but inviting, as he encircles her arm into a waistlock before tossing her overhead with a magnificent Belly To Belly Suplex. She lands right on the small of her back, and writhes in pain in response.

Seth Ericson: Damn. Brooks has all the tools, Dick. Charisma, raw power. He could solidify himself as a power player here in EXODUS again with displays like that.

Dick Morosi: Absolutely. He’s been the welcoming committee to newcomers lately, but another win in impressive fashion and he’ll certainly be a top contender for either our three championships.

Brooks picks Ambrosia up, and whips her into the ropes. She ducks a Clothesline and catches him on the rebound with a Low Dropkick, springs back to her feet, then levels him with a Bulldog. She goes for the cover again.

”ONE!”

“TWO!- Kick Out”

Brooks isn’t having it. He rolls a shoulder over, unable to toss her into the air, but able to preserve his chance at winning all the same. She scrambles back to her feet, eyeing him, thinking about possible ways to finish the veteran off and make an immediate impact in EXODUS. She waits for him to regain her bearings, and when he does she goes for a toe kick - but the Big Bad Brooks catches her foot. He swings her leg around, causing her to rotate, and when she comes back he lifts her up before slamming her down with a thunderous Spinebuster. He executes a lateral press.

”ONE!”

“TWO!- Kick Out”

Brooks is slightly flustered now, half impressed that Ambrosia has put up such a fight, yet half disappointed in himself that it’s taken this long for him to finish her off. Looking to finally meet his own expectations he drags the Kentuckian back to her feet, and goes to lift her up onto his shoulders for the Hook N’ Ladder. Whether she scouted the move or not, she knows that nothing good can come of it, and immediately squirms. She ends up sliding out of the perilous predicament, landing right behind Triple B, whom she immediately locks in a rear waist lock. She pushes him forward into the ropes, but the astute vet grabs onto the cables to prevent himself from behind pulled back, sending his debuting diva rolling back empty handed. As she rolls to her feet, the Big Bad Brooks turns around, looking to take back the advantage. He charges forward with a wild Clothesline - a move that fails to hit it’s mark as the young rookie dodges it and avoids becoming a headless harlot. She quickly leaps onto the top rope, then dives back at Brooks, capturing him in a front facelock before swinging her body down to the canvas. Her momentum pulls the Georgian off his feet, and she is able to spike him head first right into the mat with a resounding thud.

Seth Ericson: What a DDT! She dropped Brooks right on his chrome dome.

With Brooks lying motionless, Ambrosia immediately goes for the cover, hooking his near leg.

”ONE!”

“TWO!

THREE!”

Dick Morosi: She calls that “Absolution Comes Easy” but it didn’t for Justin Brooks. It was anything but that. But one things for sure, this one is over, and Ambrosia has picked up a big victory.

WINNER: Ambrosia

Dick Morosi: That is a HUGE victory for a debuting wrestler! Ambrosia just picked up a victory over Justin Brooks!

Seth Ericson: I'm not gonna lie, I'm pretty impressed!

Dick Morosi: While Ambrosia celebrates, let's head backstage!

We cut backstage, and Justin Brooks seems to be coming from the ringside area, Tom Matheny trying to walk with him.

Tom Matheny: Justin…you just went to war with Ambrosia out there and I was wondering if I can…

Justin places his hand on top of the microphone before forcefully pulling it from his Tom’s hand.

Justin Brooks: If they want to continue to do this to me…if they want to continue to parade me out there to open up for EXODUS over and over and over again…then so be it. But I refuse, Tom…I refuse to be the good little soldier in EXODUS, I refuse to continue to stand at the back of the line and be happy about it. If this is the way things are going to be…if this is how things are going to play out….

Slowly closing his eyes, Justin slowly shakes his head as he holds the microphone so tightly that the microphone begins to shake.

Justin Brooks: …then I can’t be held responsible for what happens next. My hands are going to be clean from the blood that gets spilt in EXODUS. They did this…they pushed and pushed and it’s only but so long before eventually, I push back. Why don’t you go run off and go tell the ‘Powers That Be’ that?

Justin forcibly pushes the microphone into the chest of Tom as he storms off leaving Tom to wonder what just transpired as we go to commercial.

The crowd are beginning to settle themselves down after the last match-up, checking programs and grabbing snacks and merchandise from the many stands and stalls around the building. Their attitude changes dramatically, however, as they hear a loud shriek over the P.A system as the lights begin to dim. The big screen springs to life, showing the image of silvery white feathers falling to a backdrop of intense flame. The show footage focuses on the screen, a figure of a mighty bird of prey clawing out with vicious, razor sharp talons, unaffected by the inferno. It’s eyes glow a fearful and bright gold, turning to crimson red as it seemingly flies out from the screen making the crowd gasp in awe. Then there is nothing. Nothing but darkness and silence.

The silence is broken, as a faint yet beautiful piano piece begins to play out in the background. The audience leaps to their feet, almost drowning out the sound of music as several spotlights circle around the arena as the crowd looks around in awe. Swirling violins begin to play out a haunting rhythm as a thick cloud of intoxicating smoke emits from the entrance way. Barbarian Horns fire up along with a thunderous dub step beat and distorted guitars as the Instrumental Core Remix of Hans Zimmer’s ‘Time’ fully kicks in. A hooded silhouette appears in the thick grey smog; his head is bowed as he methodically makes his way to the ring. The figure pauses for a moment, staring out into the audience. The shrouded figure of Andreas Lasiewicz steps out from the back, seemingly smoking a cigarette; his head lolled to one side as he surveys the crowd with a police baton resting on his shoulder. Around his waist is a glistening golden belt, the plate shaped like an ‘X’ with the words ‘EXODUS Pro World Heavyweight Champion’ upon it. Over his right shoulder is another belt, a much bulkier prize, but no less grand that has ‘GCW World Champion’ upon it. He pauses then points his baton towards the ring as he slowly paces there.

Seth Ericsson: And here comes the newly crowned EXODUS World Heavyweight Champion!

Dick Morosi: The man that ended the reign of Christum Furor is back here in the RIMAC, and the EXODUS faithful are going wild for their hero!

As he reaches the ring, he stops to stare out in to the crowd, he flips back his hood and lets out a short, cruel laugh as he rolls into the ring and removes his jacket, pausing with a mocking crucifix pose that would infuriate a certain competitor. He climbs one of the turnbuckles, searching out into the crowd with a Cheshire Cat grin across his face, lifting his hard earned prizes in the air for all to see. He hops down as he spins the baton around in his left hand for a moment before resting back against the turnbuckle, staring up into the heavens as if he is looking for answers. The ring attendant slowly makes his way up the ring steps, nervously handing over a microphone to the twelve time World Champion. Andreas Lasiewicz nods, taking it from him as he paces slowly to the centre of the ring, brushing his long mane out of his face as he readies himself to speak.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Please… a moment of silence.

Andreas tries to hush the crowd, yet they break into a resounding ‘Thank You Lasie’ chant that leaves the Krakow Native quite embarrassed.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Do not thank me… This is not yet the time for congratulations and celebrations.

The audience begin to quieten down, the newly crowned champion looking incredibly stern, not jovial at all.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Many people have asked me this question over the past few weeks, fans, the guys in the back, pundits and press… Why wasn’t there rejoicing at the end of ‘The Downfall of Us All’? Why wasn’t there a mass celebration when I beat Christum Furor for the EXODUS Pro World Heavyweight title? Why didn’t we raise a toast to this achievement? Where were the streamers? Where were the fireworks? Why wasn’t there mass hysteria and wild rejoicing in honour of what had occurred?

Lasiewicz pauses briefly, beginning to pace around the ring, as is his usual fashion.

Andreas Lasiewicz: The answer for that is quite simple… This isn’t over, not by a long shot.

There is a smattering of whispering from the crowd, their mood turning from jubilation to mass confusion.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Though our commentary team announced to the world that this ‘New Age’ is over, it most definitely isn’t. Not yet at least. This ‘New Age’ will not be over until the entirety of Gods & Monsters are driven out of this great company, each and every one of them and their supporters.

Lasiewicz steps back for a second, leaning back upon the ropes as he continues on.

Andreas Lasiewicz: The reason why I stepped away from the Seikigun, away from my friends and allies was to prove a point. You see, I tired of all the meetings that seemed to go nowhere. I tired of the constant squabbling, I tired of everyone’s personal motives and feelings about each other get in the way of possibly the most important mission in this great company’s young history. We needed to move forward. We needed to take action. And so, when it seemed that no one else would… That is exactly what I did. I stepped out there alone, I won the Honor Cup, then I took their greatest prize, their most powerful weapon… this belt right here… And I dethroned their leader.

He steps back into the centre of the ring, his voice growing fiercer as he goes along.

Andreas Lasiewicz: And here I am. You may call me a champion, you may call me a veteran, some even call me a legend. But more than anything, I am a man. A man that dethroned a supposed God. I proved to everyone at home, I proved to everyone in the back that this dark alliance, this band of outcasts known as God & Monsters are mere mortals. Mortals that bleed. Mortals that are flawed. Mortals that can be defeated. And I proved that by myself. But what comes next… I cannot do alone…

Lasiewicz begins to point towards the back with his baton, his eyes blazing intensely.

Andreas Lasiewicz: They will keep coming, their forces will keep growing, more and more will flock to their side as the days pass and soon we will have nothing but an endless night of pain and anguish. They are taking seats of power, infiltrating our very own right now as I speak. Officials are being corrupted, friends are questioning loyalties. Their plot to take over is ongoing, and it will never stop unless we act NOW. No more meetings. No more squabbling. We need ACTION. They will simply claw their way back into power and it will come to a point that they do not even need this belt. There will be tears, there will be injuries, there will be blood, you will bleed. But I ask you one thing, just one…

The crowd gasps as the ‘Morning Star’ drops to his knees, arms wide open as he appeals to the roster.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Bleed with me…

There is a roar of approval from the packed out RIMAC for Lasiewicz’s plea.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Stand by my side now, now more than ever before… And we can rid this company of their tyranny. Put everything behind you, absolutely everything. The disagreements, the arguing, the ill will and channel it into something greater, something more important than anything else.

Andreas stands once more, quite solemnly as he wraps it all up.

Andreas Lasiewicz: Before it all dies before our very eyes. Before this company dies… Before you die… Join me…

The Silver Eagle drops the microphone, and without uttering another word begins to exit the ring, giving the EXODUS faithful a lot to think about as we cut to Dick & Seth.

Dick Morosi: That's a huge statement made by Andreas Lasiewicz!

Seth Ericson: It's more than a statement, Dick, it's a rally call! Now we've got to see if the rest of the Seikigun is up for the challenge! Lasiewicz might not be in action tonight, but he's got to have his eyes on tonight's main event.

Dick Morosi: It's the number one contender, Kira T. Zeppeli, meeting the recently placed in time out Zack Lifer in a steel cage...next!

STEEL CAGE MATCH
KIRA T. ZEPPELI vs. ZACK LIFER

The lights dim at the sound of what seems to be the beeping of a life support machine sounding off with more electronic distortions coming through, seemingly destroying the reception on the EXOTron before the it seems to give way to music and a hijacked reception of just a cold, emotionless face. The haunting same notes on a piano seem to repeat until drums and the remainder of the music kicks in for Akira Yamaoka's "Rain of Brass Petals (Three Voices Edit)" starts. The lights flash in unison with the piano as they pulse, when it just suddenly seems that in between pulses someone finally has the light reflect against them, someone that in the brief moments he is illuminated is seen to be wearing a doctor's coat.

David Zinkus: Coming down the aisle, from the Bottom of the Bay...KIRA! T! ZEPPELI!

The lights shine straight onto him for a brief moment at this announcement, revealing this figure to be wearing a horrific insectoid version of a plague doctor's mask, the right eye of the mask smashed in so no sight can see out.



He reaches the ring and slowly reaches out to grab the ropes, lifting himself up onto the ring apron and stepping inside the ring. He leans against his corner, staring across the ring for a moment before reaching up to his face, prying the mask off of his face to reveal the visage of Kira T. Zeppeli, who faces the crowd with a cold indifference. He slowly places the mask outside the ring for safekeeping with his coat, and awaits what happens next.

Dick Morosi: You're looking at the new number one contender after pulling off what nobody expected he would do! He defeated nine other people to win the Brightest Day Cibernetico.

Seth Ericson: Yeah, well one of those nine others is about to grate his face against steel!

A brief flash of silence passes through the arena as the stage is beamed on by gold and white lights, the bulbs dimming slightly. Heroic hues floated over the entryway, the ramp and of course the audience, audible cheers as they hear the words of "Alive in the Lights" by Memphis May Fire boom through the speakers signifying one man and one man only.

From the beginning, I knew I was different.
I embraced it, but you didn't.
Your normal life, 9-5, it's just not for me.
I need to feel alive!

As the lights of gold and white beam down against the crowd, searching up the stairs and to the cheap seats, they notice a familiar silhouette. A pop from the fans resurfacing, signs of various positive remarks stretching across the ocean of 'Lifer Addicts' as well as a few anomaly signs that don't fit in with the others. Adorn in a white sweatshirt with his signature demented smiley face logo on the back, he makes his way down the stairs, high fiving a couple people on his way down.

Don't you see the minds that have changed?
Do you see the lives that have been saved?
Don't you care to see the difference I've made?
Listen closely, the highways call my name.
Don't you see this is my everything?

Lifer's slow, methodical walking gives way to sprinting, his legs moving him towards the ring down the nearly endless row of stairs before Lifer hops the leather barricade, a running jump that could only be considered impressive, a hint of confidence in the way he moved at a slowed down pace once more towards the steel steps. His eyes dart to the entrance way as he trudges up the few stairs, not looking away as he watches the curtain for just a couple seconds. As he gets to the top of the steps, his eyes dart across the arena, stunned by the crowd reaction. The audience gets louder as he climbs the turnbuckle, a triumphant fist rising as high as he could, a laugh exiting his lips as a single golden colored firework shot diagonally on the stage, the location of its starting point mirroring the top turnbuckle he resided on as it screeched loudly as it cut across the arena air, another pop from the crowd.

Don't you care to see the difference I've made?

The camera zoomed out from the scene of Zack's arm raised with the firework shooting by swiftly in the background and watches as he gets on the outside apron again. He quickly hops the top rope effortlessly in one movement, his eyes searching the excited crowd as a smirk crosses his face. The sounds fade mid-lyric as he rests in his corner, looking anxiously at the referee and back at the entrance ramp for the match to finally make some progress.

Sparking a vicious beginning to such a brutal match, Kira winds up his right hand and openly slaps his former comrade across the face with a powerful display of disrespect. As the the sound of skin on skin colliding with such a violent speed reverberates through the arena the audience responds with "oohs", knowing such an act will rile up the easily riled Lifer. Holding his cheek and with his head pivoted away, Zack responds with a similar act of contempt; swinging his hips along with his hand, the former Int. Champ scores with a palm against the side of Kira's face in an obvious attempt at retribution. Another loud echo of flesh on flesh drowns out the arena as the literal and proverbial taste is slapped out of The G&M scalpel's mouth. In an instant, the two combatants submit to their feral instincts and come face to face, pushing each other back merely with their foreheads. Kira, with a vindictive expression, and Zack Lifer, cold expression of his own­ yet he can’t help but smile as the masses begin to chant “THIS IS AWE­SOME!” merely for the prolonged build up to such a heated confrontation.

Fuelling off of the heat being built up from the simple beginning, the former San Diego Bay champ decides to do a total 180 from the matches current paradigm. In the blink of an eye, Kira quickly extends his hands into the New Jeryseyan’s chest, pushing him back before, in the same fluid motion, spinning around with a Roaring Elbow in an attempt to take his bitter foe’s head off. Seeing the impending danger coming at him, The New Iron Saint lowers down in time to narrowly avoid being beheaded, throwing off Kira’s equilibrium and momentum whilst forcing him to swing around ­ this puts him in a vulnerable position which is capitalized on. Instantly catching Jake in a rear waist lock, Zack attempts to flatten his former stablemate with a Backdrop Suplex but, with the power of gravity, the shrewd Kira holds himself down to prevent just that. Searching for an opening, Zeppeli looks down at Lifer’s loose grip and immediately wrenches in one hand into the hold, turning his said limb into a crowbar in an attempt to liberate himself. Doing so effectively, the Californian quickly grabs onto Zack’s right wrist and elbow before bending it back to trap him with a standard hammerlock.

Seth Ericson: These two don’t know what they want to do. First they start off the match with slapping each other like angry whores, and now they’re putting on quite a technical clinic.

Dick Morosi: They’re feeling each other out, Seth. You didn’t expect them to start leaping off the cage and beating each other to a pulp so soon, did you?

Seth Ericson: The first, no. The second, yes. I had money on this being an all out clobbering slugfest right out of a Tarantino movie.

Dick Morosi: I’ll admit, after watching him get slapped in the face, I thought Lifer was going to try and rip his heart right out of his chest ­ well if Kira had one anyway.

Wrenching in the submission move tightly, putting pressure on the joints in the right arm, Zeppeli yanks in the hammerlock furiously, showing no signs of letting up or any indication that he’ll release Zack.. Experiencing a slight numbing sensation being sent up his aforementioned limb, Lifer leans forward, momentarily causing himself more pain in the process ­but a necessary evil, as he pivots his body slightly towards his antagonist. As a well traveled mat wrestler, Zep knows this counter well, and instantly releases the hold before aiming forward at Zack’s head hoping to slap on a headlock to further wear his adversary down, however the Jersey Boy sees it coming. As Kira lunges, the New Iron Saint quickly diminishes his stature to all fours and grabs Zeppeli’s ankles before pulling the chair right from under him so to speak, causing the Californian to fall flat on his face. At this point, Zack maneuvers on the canvas up to where Kira’s head lies and immediately traps him in a headlock of his own. Flustered by the change of events, and on the receiving end of the submission he was attempting, Zep ushers a few obscenities under his breath, yet remains composed enough to go back to the mental drawing board and lift his upper body up off the canvas into a pushup position to alleviate the pressure. Noticing Kira’s technique, Lifer puts his weight on him to coerce the Californian back down to the canvas ­ this is followed by him maliciously driving his knees into his rival’s cranium.

Dick Morosi: More countering, this time Lifer reveres Kira’s hammerlock and eventually bringing it into a headlock, and now he’s beginning to ground and pound him. Are you pleased yet, Seth?

Seth Ericson: We're in the ballpark. I however, won’t be giddy until I see some flesh being peeled off by a chain link fence. I want to hear squealing. I want to see blood. I want him to drop a rock on Piggy’s head!

Dick Morosi: Lord of the Flies? I didn’t know you could read, Seth. Wow! You learn something new everyday.

Seth Ericson: You keep talking Dick. I’ll be reading your obituary.

Knowing he cant take much more of this sort of damage, Kira lifts up to his knees, forcing Lifer to follow suit to keep the hold locked in. Zep then quickly throws an elbow into the ribs of his opponent and slides back, out of his predicament. The Californian then immediately grabs the former Int. Champ's nearest arm and extends it. Zack, on one knee watches helplessly as the despair devourer tucks his hand under one arm, while the other pushes his elbow. The Jersey Boy swiftly gets up and turns inwards to meet Kira eye to eye, alleviating all the pressure of the would­be armbar, then ducks under his fellow technician's right arm while simultaneously twisting it. The arm of G&M's scalpel is then bent behind his back, as a consequence, causing him to stand on lurch forward on his toes as a response to the pressure being put on his shoulder via a hammerlock. Thinking quickly in order to preclude any possible counter, Zack slides his left arm under that of his former ally's, weaving it in front of his shoulder and then behind his head to apply textbook half nelson. From this position, he releases te hammerlock, yet mirrors the action he performed moments ago. Now with both arms immobilized, the former Int. Champ plants his feet and vigorously explodes backward. The captured Zeppeli is lifted off his feet and thrown back before his head and neck slam into the canvas with a dull thud.

Seth Ericson: What a Dragon Suplex! I don't know who this guy is, but what has he done with Zack Lifer? This other guy is wrestling a clinic!

Dick Morosi: Lifer has been on his 'A' game so to speak. He's focused, and he's all business tonight, this aggressive side of him, it's a breath of fresh air really.

Seth Ericson: People have called him on his maturity, or lack there of. Well, he's got a new look tonight, Dick. I don't know if it's the new hair conditioner, or what, but it's working for him.

Dick Morosi: I guess it helps that he utterly despises the man he's in there with. I suppose if I were locked in a cage with you, you'd see a different side of me too, Seth.

The New Iron Saint rolls out from under his opponent, who lies sprawled for a moment wincing after the effective maneuver. Arms slightly numbed, head pounding, neck feeling like its broken, Zep sits up after a few seconds to see his nemesis a few feet away. The recently reformed Lifer runs to the ropes as Kira attempts to regain his bearings and returns to a vertical base. Leaning his back into the trio of ring cables as he hits them, Zack is launched back toward his adversary. The mysterious mailer of misery drops to the mat to a prone position, prompting and his fellow EXODUS-ite to jump over him, then continues running until he connects with the opposite set of ropes. Almost with new life, the number one contender to the World Title springs up as the Jerseyan rebounds, then quickly slides his right arm under Lifer's before turning and falling down. The child trapped in a man's body is dragged over his opponent, flipping forward into a somersault before his slams into the canvas. Some breath escapes Zack's lungs due to the hard landing, but Zep gets right back up and seeks to maintain his new found control of the contest.

With a handful of hair Kira pulls his opponent up to a vertical base, then begins to unload on him with right hand after right hand. He then shifts his target area to his foe'a abdominal region, plunging his fist into Lifer's solar plexus with a repeated force. With Zack weakened and groggy, Kira attempts the Rolling Elbow again - this time he connects, smashing his elbow into the New Iron Saint's cranium, causing him to spin around in response to the violent collision. Just as his brainpan had assimilated the damage, Lifer swiftly spun around before jumping and twisting his body to face Zeppeli. The Saint's legs fly up and one of his shins connects with the side of Kira's head, dazing the Californian with a beautiful Enzuigiri and sending him stumbling toward the ropes in befuddlement. Creating a perfect opportunity for the man who guaranteed to kill G&M, Kira eventually falls onto the middle rope, face mere inches away from the steel cage. Lifer gets up and steps back a few feet, eyes locked on his target the whole time, then runs at the weakened wrestler. He extends and bends his leg, connecting with a vile running knee smash that pushes his rival's face into the cage. The ropes help Lifer to bounce off of his opponent, and he quickly rolls back due to the moment while Kira lifelessly lands on the mat.

Dick Morosi: Good Lord! He just sent Kira face first into the cage!

Seth Ericson: Talk about being stuck between a rock and a hard place. I don't know which is worse; having your face smashed into the cage, or having the back of your head cracked like a walnut.

Dick Morosi: I'd imagine you'd be a little worse for where either way, Seth. Kira wont be moving anytime soon and It looks like Zack's going for a cover here.

Seth Ericson: Smart move on his part. I'm still trying to wonder what sparked this new change in Lifer. His wife must have accidentally erased all of his saved data on his Pokemon game or something. Either that or he finally had a wet dream. Haha.
Zack covers Kira as Brian Lowery makes the count.

"ONE!"
"TWO!"

Zeppeli kicks out, not surprising Zack as he anticipated that it would take much more to silence the number one contender. Lifer climbs to his feet and steps back, contemplating what to do next, what line if attack he can take to increase his hated foe'a discomfort. Coming up with an easy solution, the New Iron Saint steps forward and connects with a Leg Drop, dropping his entire frame across his antagonist's trachea. Kira flinches and writhes in pain from the impact, holding his possibly broken voice box as Lifer steps away to allow him to move about. The Californian rolls on his stomach and pushes himself to all fours, still gawking and holding his throat as he slowly attempts to make it to his feet. Lifer revels in the role reversal, as Kira is the one currently despairing, and he the one feasting off of said misery. It's been a long time coming for Zack, and this is indicated in every one of his movements. There is no wasted motion, as he takes a hold of Zep's wrist and pulls him to a vertical base, followed by a quick toe kick to the gut and a slow arm wrench to immobilize the former San Diego Bay champ. From there Lifer locks his head underneath one of his foe's arm, then lifts him over into a Northern Light's Suplex which he holds for the pin.

"ONE!"
"TWO!"

Kira manages to get a shoulder up to break the count, causing Zack to roll off of him and plot his next move. G&M's self-proclaimed scalpel is grabbed by his long black strands of hair, Zack slowly lifting him to his feet as his eyes burn with a confident disdain. The Honor Cup Semi-Finalist backs Zeppeli into the ropes, whilst grasping him by the wrist and pulling him forward, proceeding to Irish Whip his battered nemesis across the squared hell. Instead of rebounding, Kira wraps his arms around the top rope, suppressing his momentum, allowing himself a chance to catch a breather and gain distance from his belligerent foe. The New Jerseyan wipes some sweat from his forehead, his face suddenly expressing one of rage as he charges at the number one contender to Andreas Lasiewicz's World Championship. Having evoked the desired response from the his foe, the opportunistic Zeppeli steps forward, quickly exploiting the fan-favorite's momentum against him as he doubles over. The former Int. champion soon finds himself ascending through the ambiance and over the ropes, his body crashing into the unforgiving steel upon the popping of Kira's hips. The cage trembles from the unbelievable toss as Lifer plummets to the canvas.

Seth Ericson: Turnover! He catapulted him right into the cage. Did you hear that impact, Dick?

Dick Morosi: how could I not, it sounded like a car crash just happened. Kira lured him in, and Zack's aggressiveness was his Achilles heel right there.

The New Iron Saint twitches from the impact as an aftershock of the maneuver reverberating throughout his body. Kira raises his head, his eyes squinting tightly as his chest rapidly raises up and down, still visibly winded and feeling the effects of the punishment he endured for the better part of nearly five minutes. His eyes slowly open, appearing to have conquered the pain as he approaches his target, leaning over to grab his for by the leg before sliding him under the bottom rope and closer to himself. Without hesitation Zeppeli begins unloading his aggression on the Lifer's inert carcass in the form of devastating stomps. He was taking great pleasure in asserting his dominance and superiority over him; each stomp was fueled with malice and a unwavering desire to eliminate Lifer, one of the most prominent, and annoying thorns in the side of Gods and Monsters.

Kira backs away now, having satisfied his hunger for the time being. He merely marvels at his work, enjoying the sight of Lifer writhing in agony, so much that he poses in the G&M crucifix to draw tremendous heat from the crowd. The boos raining down from the audience do little to effect Zeppeli's swagger. He had just won the Cibernetico, adding another impressive victory to his already incredible résumé, and he seemed like he was going to add another tonight. Finally showing signs of Life, Zack slowly gets to a vertical base and stumbles forward, allowing a pursuing Kira to grab his hair and walk him toward the far wall of the cage. When the two near the opposite end of the squared hell, Zeppeli grabs the waist of his adversary's pants and hurls him into the cage wall. Zack's countenance is somewhat rearranged by the crash into the steel structure, as he stumbles back in a wave of disorientation right into Zep's waiting and inviting embrace. The arms of the sadistic Californian encircle Zack's waist , and the former San Diego Bay Champ's body explodes back, throwing Lifer overhead. The New Iron Saint lands on his head, neck, and shoulders courtesy of a brilliant and perfectly executed German Suplex while the deliverer of said move rolls to the side to take a short breather.

Seth Ericson: What a German Suplex by Kira T. Zeppeli, and the T is for Totally Whipping Lifer’s Ass! Dick, he’s in the driver’s seat right now, and I would assume Lifer can’t endure much more moves like that.

Dick Morosi: No, he cannot. Zeppeli is possibly one of the best technical wrestlers in EXODUS today, and he’s at his best when he can throw you around and drop you on your heard in a fashion just like that. Zack has got to mount some sort of comeback, channel some sort of second wind to turn this around.

Lifer rolls away from his assailant, who gets up with plans to continue his offense. Kira grabs the back of Zack’s tights and pulls him up, then wraps his around his waist. With a German Suplex on his mind again, Zeppeli pulls back, but his resilient co-worker plants his feet to avoid being slammed on his head again. Lifer, out of desperation, then throws his head back, striking Zep in the face and allowing the New Iron Saint to grab one of his adversary’s arms. The New Jerseyan spins out of the rear waistlock, still holding an arm in his possession, and turns toward the corner. Lifer then pulls back to propel Kira forward, however the former San Diego Bay Champion turns the Irish Whip on Lier, launching Zack into the corner. Lifer, runs a few steps, turns and impinges the turnbuckles with his spine, lurching and stumbling forward from the impact while G&M scalpel’s moves in to drop the proverbial hammer. Kira quickly lifts him into the air before slamming him down with a vicious Exploder Suplex. Already holding one of his foe’s legs, Zeppeli hooks it and leans back as Lowery makes the count.

”ONE!”

“TWO!”

Lifer throws his whole body up, escaping the pinning hold. Kira leans up on his knees, somewhat frustrated by his opponent’s resiliency, but more tired than anything due to the energy he’s exerted on both ends in the match. The crowd has now begun chants of “Let’s Go Lifer!” as Kira climbs back to his feet. The sinister Californian gets right into Lowery’s face, even as going as far to grip the senior official by the collar to voice his contempt. The zebra clad referee attempts to explain himself, but Kira is having none of it, as he is too irate to be reasoned with and simply tosses the referee back. Unable to get the pinfall, he tries for liberation through escape, turning to the cage-wall and climbing onto the ropes, slowly beginning his ascent. As Zeppeli tries to get out of the cage, Zack begins to stir, torpidly climbing to a vertical base.. Fighting the physical affliction and anguish, Lifer marches to the ropes, quickly grabbing Zep’s leg. OUt of desperation, the twisted genius attempts to wriggle his leg free, but only harms himself as he loses his balance. Noticing the instability of the ropes, Zac gives a mighty tug, pulling Kira off the cage and causing him to crotch the ropes. The crowd groans and grimaces, along with Zeppeli who remains suspended, his energy subsequently zapped as he cringes in pain. The former International Champion staggers into the corner before climbing the turnbuckle. After reaching the top, Lifer breathes in deeply to himself, wiping the sweat from his eyes with his forearm before measuring his target. After a brief moment, and another breath the New Iron Saint leaps off the proverbial mountain, gliding through the air and extending his arm. He connects with a Lariat, taking Kira’s head off as he knocks the two hundred pounder off the ropes sending him to the canvas.

Dick Morosi: And THAT'S the Zack Lifer that is winning EXODUS over, Seth. What a Flying Lariat. Listen to this crowd, they love it!

Seth Ericson: Great move from Zack. Kira was moments away from getting out of the cage, but the New Iron Saint made sure that wasn't gonna happen and now we know why the caged bird sings.

Dick Morosi: And why is that, Seth?

Seth Ericson: Cause Kira lost his grapefruit a right before he lost his head.

The audience exuberantly rain down the applause for the New Jerseyan, Lifer only displaying what he has inside; the heart of a champion. Zack strolls over to the corner, tossing him arms into the air to further excite the audience, then simply waits for Zeppeli to get back to his full verticality. The scalpel of the New Age lumbers to his feet, still groggy from the Flying Lariat and turns to face his nemesis, who swings for the with the Clothesline, only to smash thin air in the face, as the quick-thinking Kira ducks the lusty blow, immediately springing into the air and throwing his into the air, Lifer turning into a boot to the nose, flooring the one time International title holder. The impact of the Dropkick resounds around the arena, the spittle of The New Iron Saint spraying the cage wall, Kira now with the little slice of separation that was so necessary. Both men remain planted on the canvas for quite awhile, the punishment that both men have taken being tremendous, the effort both competitors have exerted into this match being palpable. Both combatants begin to stir, with each athlete crawling to their nearest set of ropes, happening to be parallel to the other.

Zeppeli and Lifer both use the ring cables to pull themselves to their similar heights, but Zack's gut tells him that remaining stationary on the turnbuckle isn't wise, so the New Jerseyan tries to take the advantage and sprints at the opposite turnbuckle, aiming for his seemingly unsuspecting adversary. However, with instincts of his own, the Californian throws his entire skeletal structure at the kneecaps of his foe and clutches the left leg, rolling behind Lifer whist pulling the vehement confidante of Jaime Alejandro over the entrails of his back, leaving Zack with his spine on the mat and the former San Diego Bay champ hunched over Santiago, putting as much pressure as possible on the New Iron Saint's legs, forcing Brian Lowery to slide in and make the pinfall count.

"ONE!"

"TWO!"

Dick Morosi: Kira might have here with the School Boy!

Seth Ericson: Thats three, that's three - nope!

Showing incredible speed of thought and more importantly, showing solidity of leg strength, Lifer forces all of his adrenaline up through his legs, throwing the light two hundred pound frame of the the scalpel backwards and to the mat, ending the pinfall prospect of the Schoolboy Roll-Up. Both men are quick to roll back onto the balls of their feet and Lifer, eager to regain the advantage comes up swinging. Zack delivers small punches to the midsection of his foe as he rises. The man from Jersey looks like he's about to turn the match on its head, but he immediately feels a forearm swing up and slam into his jaw as Kira is able to quickly break his opponent's momentum with a European Uppercut.

As Zack stumbles back into the ropes, Zeppeli backs up toward the center of the ring as well. The beloved man in the contest stumbles toward the despair feeder, who begins running. Lira throws a knee up, but Lifer's awareness prevails as he dodges to the side and backs up toward the corner. The Californian lets go of the ropes and begins pursuing his opponent, who stands near the ropes whilst thinking of what to do next. When he gets in range, Zeppeli swings his left arm around to try a Clothesline, but it is dodged and the next thing he knows, he's been lifted up onto the shoulders of the New Strong Style Saint. Lifer puts his back to the ropes, only a few feet away from the corner, and throws the 208-pound burden on his shoulders into the cage wall. Zeppeli hits the steel and falls between it and the ropes. While Lifer falls to his knees from the toll of the Sidewinder Suplex, a lightbulb goes off in his head that almost as quickly reinvigorates him. The well traveled superstar of both EXPRO and PDW walks to the corner and begins climbing, slowly but surely performing his ascent while his opponent gets up from the semi-painful drop onto the apron. The New Strong Style Saint gets to the top rope and turns to face Kira, who is halfway to a vertical base. Lifer grabs the cage to keep his balance as he anticipates the move he is about to make, meanwhile everyone on the RIMAC stands in awe of what is about to happen.

Seth Ericson: What's this fool got planned?

Dick Morosi: He's about to catch a wild Kira with a master ball, Seth.

Every spectator, whether they are rooting for Zack Lifer or Kira Zeppeli, stands up to see what is about to happen. Zack takes a breath as he watches his foe finish getting up. Another deep breath, and he flies from his perch at an angle closer to the ropes than one would normally fly. Lifer turns his body and kicks both feet out, connecting both of them with the face of Kira T. Zeppeli and slamming the Californian's head into the cage wall. As a seemingly barely alive body belonging to the top contender to the top prize in the company falls to the side, still in between the ropes and cage, Zack lands rather roughly on his side, knocking the wind out of him. The crowd cheers the insane move as both wrestlers lie on the mat, neither moving but one with the distinct advantage as of this moment.

Dick Morosi:MISSILE DROPKICK SANDWICHES KIRA'S HEAD INTO THE CAGE! Im speechless. I-I- WOW. That is one of the wildest things I've seen in a while, Seth!

Seth Ericson:That was insane, alright! What's almost as crazy is the fact that the tables have turned in this match yet again. Zack Lifer is the man for that, Dick. I don't care what he's done in the pass, that was wild!

Finally coming to, Lifer pulls Kira into the middle of the ring and goes for the cover.

"ONE!"

"TWO!"

Using all energy reserves, Zepelli throws his shoulder into the air and earns a round of jeers from the pro-Lifer crowd, even prompting the usually efficient Zack to throw both fists to the canvas in frustration. The Jersey Bog regains his composure and climbs back to his feet, planning his next course of action as Zep reaches his knees. With the correct positioning, The New Iron Saint of the Flies throws himself onto the tightly packed ropes Kira is facing, rebounding to swing his right knee at the cranial lobe of his former stablemate. With the crowd expecting the Forced Suicide, Kira's speed reaches new bounds as he ducks the potential match ending strike and throws an arm up between Zack's legs to enervate him with a Low Blow.

Zack immediately is reduced to a knee as Zepelli climbs back to his feet. The number one contender scrambles to the ropes, bounces off, then greets his adversary with a knee strike of his own. Lifer is immoderately dropped like a rock as Zeppeli collapses on his chest for the cover.

ONE!







TWO!









THR--KICKOUT!

Zeppeli can't believe it, and his eyes seem to be popping out of his head as he can't believe what's going on! He starts reaching over for Lifer, but Lifer kips up and looks enraged! He begins kicking Zeppeli in the chest repeatedly, the crowd counting each and every kick until Lifer backs up and goes to wait for Zeppeli to stan---FORCED SUICIDE! Zeppeli is down and seated before Lifer bounces off the ropes and comes back toward Kira...DEAD AIR! HE HOOKS!

ONE!










TWO!







THREE! "Alive In the Lights" starts, but the lights go down as it does, the music dying!

WINNER: ZACK LIFER

Just as Zack Lifer had reached cloud nine and was experiencing the rush of emotions that came on the heels of his emotional victory, the lights in the RIMAC arena suddenly shut off, shrouding the entire venue in an ominous cloak of darkness. The teaming masses of humanity buzz and chirp, wondering what could possibly be on the horizon, while the commentary team scramble on air, trying to decide if there had been some sort of technical malfunction - yet the fact that their mics are still working makes them aware that this is not a technical issue. There was indeed something nefarious afoot, intimated by the change of the atmosphere from electricity to apprehension. And for good reason; the lights suddenly return to their normal fixture, and the entire arena, including Zack Lifer, is enlightened at the same time. Sitting in a steel chair, burlap sack and G&M wardrobe is none other than Christum Furor, flanked by his disciples.

Zack looks around at his former allies, and more importantly, the man he turned his back on and vowed to destroy. Tired, groggy, and beaten, the New Iron Saint tries to formulate some sort of plan, some defensive strategy to prepare himself for what's about to happen. But alas, it would be all proved futile, as the leader of the creative extremists raises his hands in the direction of his former friend, signaling for his pack of wolves to attack. Almost in the blink of eye, Savannah, Ryuji, Kira, Matthews and Emi surround Lifer and immediately commence their gang assault to a chorus of vehement boos.

Dick Morosi: This is sick! Gods and Monsters has gotten themselves into the cage and they're tearing Zack Lifer apart. What's the point of this?

Seth Ericson: They're sending a message. This is war, Dick one the Seikigun thinks they've already won. You heard that madman earlier, the game is just getting started for these guys.

Christum Furor watches as his disciples go to work on the defenseless Lifer, landing clubbing blow after clubbing blow in rapid, unified succession in a glorified mugging. Lifer can do little to protect himself, and even less to endure the pain being dished out. Despite any efforts to fight back and withstand the forces of evil and hate working him over, Zack's stature eventually diminishes, and he is literally pummeled into the ground. The G&M assailants however do not leave him alone, do not allow him to lick or tend to his wounds. With tremendous vigor and twisted, sadistic enthusiasm, the horseman of Furor's apocalyptic, dystopian future begin to stomp a mudhole in him; their antipathy seems to only increase as the jeering and booing from the crowd grows louder and more vehement. Still, Christum Furor merely looks on, one leg folded over the other, hands in his lap holding an EXPRO microphone like the quintessential overlord that he is.

THAT is until he gets up from his throne and marches toward his henchmen, pushing them aside and ordering them to cease their assault. As his cohorts retreat a few feet to allow him to take the lead, the former World Champion begins to tug Lifer's carcass with his toe, almost mocking him. With the crowds detestation and animosity still filling the spectrum, Furor gazes out through the cage into the EXODUS Universe. Beneath the burlap sack is the countenance of an angered Titan, a deranged, hate filled Titan - and in those eyes of that Titan is an inextinguishable, malevolent flame. With that fire he burns holes through everyone coming across his sinister gaze - a gaze that returns to the sprawling Zack Lifer. Furor suddenly motions to his pack of wolves, ordering them to lift his former friend to his feet. They oblige, all four of them working together to drag Zack's deadweight over to the ropes.

Seth Ericson: They're not finished, Dick. Whatever point Furor has come out here to prove has not been proven yet. He apparently has unfinished business.

Dick Morosi: Magnus, Furor, whoever he claims to be, he's heartless. He can't live with the fact that Andreas beat him, that Jonathan won, that his New Age has been thwarted. He has no honor, no dignity. This is nothing more than a heinous assault.

Seth Ericson: What did they expect, Dick? A guy like Furor doesn't just fade into the darkness. The Sekigun have celebrated like this war is over, it apparently isn't. Christum is making an example out of Zack Lifer.

Dick Morosi: They can't beat him. They can't kill our hope. Seth. That's what this is about. They're trying to kill our spirit. This is cowardice.

Furor's disciples stand Zack up on his two feet, and tie his arms up in the ropes so that they are outstretched in a crucifix. Stepping back now, the rest of G&M watch with a deep rooted enthusiasm as Christum steps up to Zack, slowly removing the burlap sack from around his head. He drops his mask to the floor, revealing his foreboding visage. He had already gone to his dark place; his facial features were now removed and vacant of any emotions. His canvas was painted in the color of indifference, a callous indifference to his former friend and ally's suffering. Breathing slowly, again and again, Furor pulls the mic up to his lips.

Christum Furor: Look into my eyes Zack...

The former World Champion holds up Lifer's head, forcing Zack to meet his gaze. Albeit with weary, glazed over eyes, Lifer stares into the cold-blooded Michigander's pupils.

Christum Furor: Look into the eyes of GOD and see your reflection... see your imperfections... see your true self, a self that has finally been liberated from the facades, the lies and deceptions. See your true self separated from the forest and the trees, see the real Zack Lifer...

Furor slowly brushes back Zack's hair, removing it from his face. His eyes never leave those of Lifer's. He's almost unblinking as Zack gets lost in the windows to his soul, falling into the sociopathic revolutionary's abyss.

Christum Furor: Do you see him, Nick? Do you see him, Nick Kramer? I see him, I see him with my all seeing eyes. You can't hide him from me, not anymore. I see, and understand you, Nick. I understand your pain. You're in so much pain, Nick. Your heart hurts, just like mine. It's been tainted by a potent poison, by hate, a hate administered by this cruel, vile world we dwell in. Look at what its done to you, Nick.

Furor's head is now tilted askew, his eyes widening as if they have been dilated by an hallucinogen. Lifer’s lifeless eyes remain trained on his counterpart’s, as he continues to stare at the image being reflected in them, the image Christum wants him to see.

Christum Furor: How have you lived so long without knowing who you really are? I've known you for a short time, yet I know you better than you know yourself. I know you live in a fantasy, an illusion and distorted reality, one where everyone accepts you, one where you're allowed to live according to your own beliefs, one where you are a GOD. But THAT world is not real, Nick. THIS, is the real world and in THIS world, Christum Furor is GOD. In THIS world, you are not loved. You are an outcast. You are a vagabond. These people, they do not care for you. They do not accept you. They loathe you. They smile in your face but plot your downfall in the shadows. They wish you happiness in public, but wish you misery behind closed doors. They scream for you to change, tell you that your beliefs are incorrect, and that if you abide by their rules that you'll be accepted into the fold.

Furor shakes his head now. The emotions resurface in his face now - starting with rage.

Christum Furor: But here you are, all alone. Where are your friends? Where is the Seikigun? They have left you for dead, Nick. Jonathan only sees you as an expendable weapon to achieve his selfish ambitions. They have dehumanized you. They see you only as an object to exact their vengeance, to continue their pursuit of superficialities, to pad your ego. Why have they forsaken you? It's because you have forsaken yourself. You bit the hand that fed you, turned your back on your home, on the only people who accepted you for who you were and saw beauty in your flaws, and potential in your vices. Nick, you've gotten lost in the minotaur's maze if it were. Throughout your trials and tribulations, you've become mislead, honestly. Your pursuit of universal acceptance has destroyed you. THIS hate filled business has destroyed you. You've become caught up in the heyday of life itself, seeking things you thought you needed, but in reality all you needed was G&M.

Furor reaches a hand back, receiving his steel chair. He holds it firmly in his clutches, playfully twirling it in his hands as he hisses his frustration. It almost sickens him to look at Lifer now, lamenting the fact that he truly cared for him, only to have his friendship severed.

Christum Furor: Like Matthew, of the son who fled away with his home with his inheritance from his father - Nick you gambled, you sinned, and you wasted your money on materialism and debauchery...but your all knowing father, CHRISTUM FUROR has welcomed you back with open arms. You have returned to me, Nick, you've come back to pay off your debt. And you will pay that debt off through pain... through experiencing and understand MY pain. I loved you like a brother, Nick, but this wretched world took you away from me. Professional Wrestling led you astray, Jonathan Collins led you astray, JUST LIKE KLIFF. They took you from me, JUST LIKE KLIFF. I'm in pain, Nick. This world has made me suffer. But now YOU will suffer, YOU will experience every second of misery that you've subjected ME to. YOU will feel MY pain, MY anguish, and through that YOU will become the hero you desperately wanted to be... The hero who was sacrificed to break the cycle of hate and create peace...

Furor abruptly drops the mic and lifts the chair overhead.

*CRACK*

The steel instrument of destruction descends from its apex over Furor, and slices through the atmosphere to careen across the side and top of Lifer's crown with a resounding ruckus. The patrons gasp and groan, sympathizing for the victim of one of the most adept chair-swingers in the business. Christum shrugs a glare at his opponent who remains remind trapped, defenseless, and at his mercy. However no clemency would be afforded to him. The former world champion's face suddenly becomes a menagerie of enmity, rage, and grief as he begins yelling over the top of his lungs.

Christum Furor: DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME NOW, NICK!!!

*CRACK*

Furor beans Lifer for a second time with the chair, more so scattering the New Jerseyan's brain across the mat from a brash concuss of human skull. Zack sinks, wilting from the effects of the piece of furniture clashing into his skull.

*CRACK*

Christum Furor: CAN YOU UNDERSTAND MY PAIN!!!

The madman slams his weapon onto the ground following the third and final chairshot as Lifer slips out of his prison and falls forward landing onto his stomach. The camera on the hardside of the ring sneaks a peek through the cage, focusing in on the freshly inflicted wounds on the peak of the middleweight’s head, the blood beginning to cascade down the side of his cranium and parting over the crest of his ear. The arena is dead silent now, aghast at the brutality that was just displayed. Despite a crimson mask that is now formulating on his face, Zack begins to climb to his feet. Gradually, in spite of the fact that every fiber in his being is telling him not to, Lifer pulls himself up to all fours. Blood plummeting onto the canvas, his arms trembling due to the pressure of holding up his body weight any longer, all of this is enough of a red flag to tell him to stay down, yet Zack refuses. Fufor scoffs at the image of his foe’s resiliency, his foe’s refusal to allow to give in to his demands and submit to his will. This sickens Furor, who bends down to pull Zack up onto his knees. Grabbing the chair again, the former World Champion looks right into Lifer’s eyes, trying to determine what’s driving him to continue to defy him, desperately trying to assess his spirit and how much of it he has left. It’s plenty, as Lifer spits in Christum’s face with the only defiant gesture he can muster in his current depleted physical state. However it would be the last one, as the irate Michigander swings the chair across his body, smashing it into the side of Zack’s already dented in cranium, knocking him over and dropping him to the mat once again.

Dick Morosi: I- I- I can’t even… this is sick. This… Zack Lifer needs medical attention, Seth. He doesn’t look good.

Seth Ericson: That even made me squeamish. That was hard to watch. He didn’t deserve that. That- that, I can’t even explain it, Dick. Furor has lost it… he’s become even crazier, if it’s even possible.

As Lifer lies motionless, unconscious in a pool of his own sweat and blood, Furor slowly kneels down. He pulls Lifer’s body close to his, holding him in his arms like a mother would their child. There’s a pain filled expression on his face now as he looks down at his former friend, and more importantly, another person he was forced to destroy due to professional wrestling.

Christum Furor: I will end this cycle Zack… I will end it for you…

Furor pulls Lifer’s arms out, forcing him to pose in the G&M crucifix as the rest of the group follow suit, leaving a still shot that will echo throughout EXODUS for weeks to come before the picture fades out.

We cut to the backstage area where we see the cameraman walking the halls, a commotion being heard up ahead. There is a smashing of glass and the camera picks up the pace as he quickly walks forward.

Cameraman: What the hell is going on here?

The cameraman finally comes to a halt as we see a nearby locker room, the door taken off somewhat of its hinges. There is a plaque on the door with a name on it. It's the name of the man formerly known as Christian Kane. The camera slowly steps into the locker room, immediately noticing the mess that has been made from all of the destroyed chairs and other items. The camera quickly pans over to show the man who has been impersonating Big Brother, mask and all, spray painting a red paint on the large mirror in the locker room.

Cameraman: HOLY-

The man is cut off by the sudden turn of the head by the new Big Brother. You see that he has a smirk on his face as he drops the can and walks right up to the cameraman, looking past the camera to him.

Big Brother: Look who we have here.

Cameraman: What are you-

Before the cameraman can finish his sentence, the camera is dropped from his hands and a bunch of thuds and groans are heard before it goes quiet. After a few seconds, we see the boots of someone walk right in front of the camera before the camera is lifted up. The new Big Brother smirks as he turns the camera around and points it to the bleeding and laid out cameraman before turning it around to his smirking face.

Big Brother: Sorry. I tend to leave a mess.

The new Big Brother then points to the mirror, showing the words "You're Screwed" before the camera is dropped and busted apart, cutting the feed, and we go back to ringside with Dick & Seth.

Seth Ericson: Nice to know Brett Sands is still the worst. If he doesn't think we don't know how involved he is, he's a goddamn idiot.

Dick Morosi: Not sure how to tell you this, but I think we already established Brett Sands IS a goddamn idiot.

Seth Ericson: ...I think for once we agree on something.

Dick Morosi: While we recover from the shock, let's head to this next match. It's one half of the EXODUS Pro Tag Team Champions, Wulf Erikssen meeting Justin Brooks and the newly anointed San Diego Bay Champion, Savannah Taylor...next!

TRIPLE THREAT MATCH MATCH
SAVANNAH TAYLOR (EXODUS Pro San Diego Bay Champion) vs. JUSTIN BROOKS vs. WULF ERIKSSEN (EXODUS Pro Tag Team Champion)

David Zinkus: The following contest is a triple threat match scheduled for one fall! Introducing first…

“Engel” by Rammstein resounds from the PA system, and at first the audience is confused by this new music… Until they see Savannah Taylor make herself known. With the San Diego Bay championship belt wrapped around her waist. As she flaunts and shows off, the crowd boos with extreme disapproval.

Dick Morosi: How disgusting! Savannah thinks she’s hot stuff, taking what’s NOT hers! That belt belongs to Tiffani!

Seth Ericson: Well y’know what? If you want something so bad, just take it--

Dick Morosi: Wait a second, Seth, look!

The fans roar with cheers as the rightful San Diego Bay Champion, Tiffani Stearns, blind-sides Savannah with a running clothesline that floors her. Stearns continues the onslaught with boots to the back of Taylor’s head before pulling her up by her hair and throwing her into the barricade from the ramp. The crowd is completely behind Stearns as she charges Taylor with a running dropkick to her face that knocks her over the barricade and into the audience. Tiffani hops over and pursues Savannah who's trying her best to get away from the vengeful champion. Soon the two ladies become lost in the madness, Tiffani’s attacks still vicious when she can get them in. Both Dick and Seth look perplexed.

Seth Ericson: W-what in the world?!

Dick Morosi: Uh… Hang on, I’m getting word from the back… They say this match has now become a one-on-one contest.

Seth Ericson: Aw c’mon, I want the cameras to follow the catfight!

David clears his throat for a moment, shaking off the confusion and lifting the mic with a shrug.

David Zinkus: Ladies and gentlemen, this is now a singles match still scheduled for one fall! Introducing now…

You were my conscience, so solid, now you're like water
And we started drowning, not like we'd sink any further
But I let my heart go, it's somewhere down at the bottom
But I'll get a new one and come back for the hope that you've stolen

I'll stop the whole world, I'll stop the whole world
From turning into a monster eating us alive
Don't you ever wonder how we survive?
Well now that you're gone, the world is ours

David Zinkus: Now coming to the ring...hailing from Atlanta, Georgia...standing at 6'4" and 267 pounds, he is Justin Brooks!

I'm only human, I've got a skeleton in me
But I'm not the villain, despite what you're always preaching.
Call me a traitor, I'm just collecting your victims
And they're getting stronger
I hear them calling.

(Calling, Calling)

I'll stop the whole world, I'll stop the whole world
From turning into a monster eating us alive
Don't you ever wonder how we survive?
Well now that you're gone, the world is ours

A large chorus of cheers erupt from the E-Pro faithful as Justin Brooks appears from the curtain and stands there with a smile on his face as he places his hands on his waist. “Monster” by Paramore continues to blast through the PA system as he keeps his eyes on the middle of the squared circle as he slowly makes his way towards the ring, sliding underneath the bottom rope and quickly standing to his feet and looks amongst the crowd with a large smile on his face. Justin just leaps to the second turnbuckle and throws his hands in the air before leaping down from the turnbuckle.

Dick Morosi: Justin Brooks has been on quite a hot streak as of late! He’s looking to continue with another win against Wulf Erikssen.

Seth Ericson: Damnit… Without Sexy Savannah, this match is going to be completely dull.

Dick Morosi: You’re starting to become a real downer, Seth…

David Zinkus: And his opponent…

The opening words of "Barroom Hero" by the Dropkick Murphys echo around the arena as the entranceway becomes illuminated in red and white light. As the music kicks in, Wulf enters the arena with a bottle of beer in his hand, escorted by Stacey-X. Wulf walks about the entranceway, drinking from the bottle whilst saluting the crowd, as Stacey eggs the crowd on, clapping her hands.

David Zinkus: From Romford, Essex, England, he weighs in at 224 lbs… He is “The Bar Room Hero” Wulf Erikssen!

Wulf then downs the remainder of the bottle, before smashing it over his head. Following this, he sprints to the ring, sliding in under the bottom rope. He climbs one of the turnbuckles, and raises an arm in salute to the audience, as Stacey walks down to ringside. Wulf then turns to face his opponent, cracking his knuckles as he waits.

Seth Ericson: You know, I tried hanging out with this goof for a few minutes… Immediately regretted it.

Dick Morosi: Really? I think Wulf’s a fun guy. The fans like him.

Seth Ericson: That’s when you know it’s not worth it… If these miserable slobs embrace a wrestler.

As the music fades, Brooks and Erikssen face each other with readiness in their stances. Then the bell rings.



The two men tie up with each other in the center of the ring. Erikssen quickly slides behind Brooks and grabs him in a hammerlock. Erikssen reaches back, suddenly grabbing Brooks into a side headlock. Brooks shoots Erikssen off of him, into the ropes and as Erikssen comes off of them, Brooks catches him with a hip toss. Wulf rushes to his feet and Justin catches him with yet another hip toss. Wulf gets to his feet once again and this time Brooks catches him with a knee to the gut. Justin hits the ropes but as he comes off of them, Wulf recovers and nails him with a discus clothesline.

Dick Morosi: Quite the back and forth action here, folks, but Wulf finally got the advantage with that discus clothesline!

Seth Ericson: Better not count Brooks out, though. He’s been on a roll in recent matches. ...He’s still a toolbag, though.

Dick Morosi: You’re one to talk, Seth.

Erikssen gets Brooks up to his feet and pushes him into the corner. Wulf lands some hard chops to the chest before sending Justin into the opposite corner. Justin bounces harshly against the corner and Wulf comes charging in at him, but Brooks catches him with a hard clothesline of his own.

Seth Ericson: That’s how Justin turns things around!

Dick Morosi: I think Erikssen may have underestimated Brooks a little too early in this match.

Seth Ericson: No, you think? Get with the program, Dickmeister!

Brooks sits Erikssen up, drives his knee into his back and grabs him in a chinlock, wrenching back on his neck. Erikssen fights back to his feet and Brooks grabs him in a side headlock, trying to keep him contained but Wulf lands some elbow shots to the midsection. Wulf lands a few right hands before hitting the ropes. As he comes off of the ropes though, Brooks catches him and drives him into the mat with a belly to belly suplex. He goes for a pin…

ONE!

TWO!

Kickout!

Seth Ericson: Geez, this is almost a snooze fest… It’d be more entertaining if they both crumbled and died.

Dick Morosi: Seriously, what’s wrong with you tonight?!

Seth Ericson: I’m BORED! Somebody get Prince Kamijo out here to give them asphyxiation somethin’ awful!

Dick Morosi: ...I don’t think you’d want that...

Brooks gets Wulf up to his feet and hits him with a European uppercut that sends Erikssen staggering backwards into the ropes. Brooks comes in, seizes him and Irish whips him. As Wulf comes off of the ropes, Brooks swings at him but Erikssen ducks under his arm and stops himself. Justin turns around and Wulf grabs him and connects with several trapping headbutts. Wulf lets him go and Brooks staggers backwards into the corner, holding onto his head.

Dick Morosi: Brooks may need some aspirin after that onslaught of trapping headbutts from Wulf!

Seth Ericson: Maybe things’ll start to pick up now...

Erikssen charges in at Brooks but Justin moves out of the way and Wulf hits the turnbuckles chest-first. He staggers out of the corner, clutching his chest, and Brooks grabs him from behind and plants him into the ring with a German suplex, also making a pin…

ONE!

TWO!

KICKOUT!

Seth Ericson: Oh for god’s sake, finish him off, Justin!

Dick Morosi: Wulf’s not going to give up so easily, Seth.

Brooks gets Wulf back up, hitting him with some hard clubbing blows to the back, followed by a few chops to the chest. Brooks sends him off into the ropes and as Wulf comes off of the ropes, Brooks tries to hit him with a back elbow but Wulf ducks the arm. He hits the ropes again and as Justin turns around, Erikssen hits him with the Falcon Punch. Wulf goes for the pin…

ONE!

TWO!

KICKOUT!

Dick Morosi: Wulf ALMOST got the three-count there!

Seth Ericson: Son of a-- come ON, get on with it!

Wulf looked a bit surprised but tried not to waste much time, getting Brooks back up to his feet. Brooks fights right back though, landing a kick to the gut. Brooks then lifts him up and plants him into the mat with a brainbuster. Brooks gets up, calling for another one. He gets Wulf to his feet and lifts him up but this time Wulf slides out and lands on his feet, behind Brooks. Wulf spins Justin around, giving him a kick to the stomach and then plants him into the mat with the Bar Room Bomb. Erikssen makes the pin…

ONE!

TWO!

THREE!



“Barroom Hero” by Dropkick Murphys plays from the PA system and the fans cheer in approval, applauding the solid match between Wulf and Justin. Erikssen gets onto his feet and allows the referee to raise his hand in triumphant victory.

David Zinkus: The winner of this match… “The Bar Room Hero” WUUUUUULF ERIKSSEN!

Disappointed in the upset loss, Brooks groans and slowly rolls out of the ring. Erikssen casually waves at him with his free hand before he embraces the cheers of his fans.

WINNER: WULF ERIKSSEN

The scene opens to Chuck Matthews walking down the hallway backstage, already in his ring gear, about to head out for his match against the Big L.

Tom Matheny: Chuck!

Chuck pauses and turns to see Tom Matheny run up, holding a microphone.

Tom Matheny: Chuck, before you go out for your EXODUS debut, would you mind answering a question?

Chuck looks at Tom for a moment, a pensive look on his face. Finally, he smiles.

Chuck Matthews: "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."

Tom pauses.

Tom Matheny: I don't....Arthur C. Clarke?

Chuck Matthews: Very good. Did that answer your question?

Tom Matheny: I don't think so, no.

Chuck nods, a bored expression on his face.

Chuck Matthews: We'll see. Ask away.

Tom Matheny: Well...like I said, you're going into your first match here in EXODUS, against a returning Steve Lenton who looks as ready and fired up as ever. Now, you've been called the Smartest Man in Wrestling today-

Chuck Matthews: Now you're getting it!

Tom Matheny: I'm sorry?

Chuck Matthews: Say that again. "I've been called." You're exactly right, Tommy boy. That's the key, and the point that everybody seems to let slip by. I do not call myself the smartest man in wrestling. That is not a self-proclaimed title. THEY, whoever THEY are, gave that to me. My co-workers. My opponents. My teammates. My fans. Whoever it may be, those are the ones who have seen me work, seen me compete, and said for the world to hear, "THIS is the smartest guy in the business." I'm not some egotistical douchebag giving himself lame nicknames. That's not how I work. Original Sin, the Sex Icon, the Last Full Measure, Ozymandias Matthews, the Smartest Man in Wrestling...those aren't names I just up and decided I should have. Those are names from the people. Names that have been bestowed upon me over the years. It's a shame so few people realize that.

Tom pauses.

Tom Matheny: ....alright.

Chuck motions for Tom to carry on.

Chuck Matthews: Pardon the interruption. Please continue. Your question?

Tom Matheny: Well, uh...as I said, you've been called the Smartest Man in Wrestling, a name you've earned through your calculated matches and what you call your "master plans." Now, you've made it known you have a plan for EXODUS, and your track record would indicate that this match, your EXODUS debut, you certainly have some sort of strategy in mind. So my question to you-

Chuck Matthews: What's the most powerful part of the human body?

Tom pauses again, taken by surprise as Chuck interrupts yet again.

Tom Matheny: The most powerful part-...The brain, I guess.

Chuck Matthews: You HAVE done your homework! Very good. The human brain is the most efficient, powerful piece of equipment we as a species have ever encountered. A supercomputer, capable of storing limitless data, letters, plans, numbers, words, formulas, ideas, and pulling them up whenever they're necessary. We spend years, filling it with information, with data to pull up later in life. We spend our entire lives upgrading it, making it faster, more efficient, storing more knowledge that the one next to us. It is, quite simply, the most advanced piece of technology we know, and I've got one of the best models, right up here in my little head.

Chuck holds his finger to his temple, a light smirk forming on his face.

Chuck Matthews: Now go ahead. Ask the question you came to ask.

Tom speaks quickly, determined to get his question out before Chuck can interrupt again.

Tom Matheny: What is your plan for EXODUS?

Chuck's smile widens. He answers slowly, quietly, forcing Tom and the camera to move in to catch his every word.

Chuck Matthews: A good magician never reveals his secrets.

Chuck taps his head, and with a wink, he turns and walks off down the hallway without another word, and we go back to Dick & Seth.

Dick Morosi: Chuck Matthews is certainly one of the more interesting characters we've had in EXODUS.

Seth Ericson: I wish I would've known Chuck when I was in high school, maybe I could have had my math homework done for me.

Dick Morosi: I feel like Chuck would have mocked you.

Seth Ericson: I feel like Chuck would have dunked your head in the toilet.

Dick Morosi: Well maybe we'll see what type of person he is after this match! Chuck Matthews will be meeting Steve Lenton...next!

SINGLES MATCH
CHUCK MATTHEWS vs. STEVE LENTON (EXODUS Pro Tag Team Champion)

David Zinkus: This contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first!

The heavy bridge of "Brains" erupts through the speakers as spotlights race across the crowd. Chuck Matthews steps out onto the stage, looking around at the people in attendance. He smiles, taking in the reaction of the fans. Casually, Chuck begins his walk towards the ring. He moves calmly, but quickly, making no effort to interact with fans until he reaches the apron. At this point, he climbs up, leaning with his back against the ropes, looking out at the crowd. He winks, and steps between the ropes before climbing one of the corners. He raises his arms in his signature horns before hopping down. He rolls his wrists and neck, waiting for the match to begin.

David Zinkus: Making his EXODUS Pro debut this evening, he is THE SMARTEST MAN IN WRESTLING, CHUCK MATTHEWS!

With Matthews in the ring, how about bringing out his opponent, shall we?

The sounds of cheers are heard around the arena. The fans wait in anticipation, almost eager for him to come out. The lights flash a royal blue and suddenly "Aw Naw" (Remix) by Nappy Roots ft. POD blares. The crowd begins to sing along with the opening part. Lenton busts through the curtains. The fans bust into a defying scream of cheers. Lenton is talking to the crowd jumping up and down on the stage, walking from one end to the next. The camera zooms in on his face, "Listen to that!" Lenton exclaims with a smirk. He walks up the ramp with a slight strut, looking out at the crowd.

He stops short and looks around for a moment. He takes it all in, listening to the fans cheer for him. Some of the fans hand touch him. Stephen slaps the hands and continues to make his way up the ramp with his eyes glued on the arena again. Once he makes it to the apron, he looks at the ring and then climbs up on it quickly and stands up on the turnbuckle. The lights around the arena then turn into a spotlight. Lenton's eyes turn towards his opponent eyes locked on directly, staring intensely.

The fans continue to cheer as the song begins to break down. Lenton turns back to the crowd, forms a smirk on his face and lifts his arm in the air with enthusiasm. He wipes his mouth and leaps down from the turnbuckle and stands in the ring, circling it. He decides to hit the turnbuckle again standing on it lifting his right arm in the air the same way he did. He takes in the cheers, looking around slowly. Stephen leaps down and stands in his corner, getting ready to fight.

David Zinkus: And his opponent, one half of the EXODUS Pro World Tag Team Champions...THE BIG L....STEVE....LENTON!

Lenton is ready to fight, and Matthews seems more than ready to oblige, so the official quickly calls for the bell.

DING DING DING!

Steve Lenton, as he always does, asserts himself at the bell, clocking EXODUS newcomer Matthews with a big open-handed right to the jaw. Lenton lands with a second, but a third is evaded by Chuck neatly stepping closer. He winds a hand around the back of Steve's head, and scores with two sharp Muay Thai styled elbows to the jaw that stun Lenton, and snap his head back.

With Lenton stunned, the smaller Chuck quickly laces his leg around the Big L's, snapping him down to the canvas with a textbook Russian legsweep, floating over neatly for a cover.

ONE!


TWO


KICKOUT!

Dick Morosi: Chuck Matthews got thrown in here at the deep end of the EXODUS pool with Lenton, but he's using his smarts to combat the strength edge of the Big L.

Matthews quickly does his best to drag Lenton over into a neutral corner. With Lenton seated there, he begins to scrape his boot across the face of the tag team champion, three quick scrapes before hitting the far ropes, looking for the big face-wash.

Lenton, though, seems far less amenable to this plan, surging to his feet and diving to FOREARM Chuck Matthews square in the jaw! Steve rolls to his back, only to KIP UP to his feet to a huge roar from the capacity crowd in attendance.

Seth Ericson: Welcome to EXODUS, Chuck Matthews!

Dick Morosi: Lenton DRILLED him, and God, folks, Steve Lenton is an athletic freak of nature.

Chuck, though, rolls out to the floor, rather than let Lenton continue to build momentum. Matthews takes a moment to collect himself before jumping back to the apron. Lenton charges, only for Chuck to knee him in the stomach,then grab Lenton by the head to hotshot him across the top rope, throat first.

Seth Ericson: He is, but Chuck's stymieing him, which is not an easy thing to do, for the record!

A smiling Matthews re-enters the ring, stomping away at the Big L, doing his best to keep Lenton grounded. After a few more stomps, he picks Lenton up, and tries to fire him into the ropes, only for the ore powerful Lenton to reverse the whip.

Matthews comes back off the ropes, and Lenton scoops him up, spins, and promptly deposits the smaller newcomer flat on his back with a huge Double A spinebuster! Lenton quickly moves to cover, not wasting any time on capitalizing.

Dick Morosi: That's the dangerous part of Lenton! Whenever you're in the ring with him, you're always just ONE power move away from being slammed out of the contest!


ONE!


TWO


KICKOUT!

The newcomer gets his shoulder up, but Lenton keeps the pressure on. With Matthews on his back, Lenton grabs him in a double choke. The referee moves to warn Lenton, who chokelifts Chuck to his feet, looking for a huge L-Plex.

Seth Ericson: The Big L with the Big L-Pl--

Matthews, though, has the move scouted, managing to score with a chop to the throat to stun Lenton, Grabbing one of the arms around his throat, Chuck segues it down into a Fujiwara armbar, clearly intent on keeping the energetic Lenton grounded.

Dick Morosi: Chuck Matthews has not come to EXODUS to concede his debut to Lenton! A lot of other debutees would be frightened by taking on someone the likes of Steve Lenton, but Matthews is here with a plan.

Steve begins to crawl, using his size advantage. Matthews tries to make up for this with technique, but Lenton will not be denied, making his way over towards the ropes and draping a big boot over the ropes in order to break the submission hold.

Seth Ericson: You probably would need to saw Steve Lenton's arm off to get a submission out of the man. 100% heart and determination.

Matthews releases the hold, albeit reluctantly. Lenton surges to his feet in a rush, only to run right into Chuck leaping in the air to NAIL Lenton, catching him off guard with a big enzuigiri. Lenton collapses to the canvas, as the newcomer settles back in a corner, seeing a chance to make a name for himself in a huge, huge way.

Chuck Matthews takes careful aim at The Big L, measuring him for his signature Hollywood Impact spear. Chuck charges the wounded Lenton, and lays out for the spear, only for Lenton to leap over Chuck, and hit the far ropes.

Dick Morosi: Nobody home! Chuck had him sized up, but the freakish athleticism of Lenton is gonna keep him in this contest!

Matthews manages to get his hands down, to prevent any further impact to himself. Dusting his hands off, he rises to his feet, and goes to press the attack.

Seth Ericson: Uh oh, I think Mr. Matthews is about to find out what time it is...

He doesn't get the chance, though, because two-hundred and fifty plus pounds of Steve Lenton barrels at him at an odd angle, slamming every ounce of that bodyweight into him.

Dick Morosi: 3:00! Lenton got every second of it!

The EXODUS Tag Champion hooks the leg, cinching it tight, as the official drops to count.

ONE!


TWO!


THREE!


DING DING DING!

Lenton sits up, and gets his hand raised by the official, casting a respectful glance at Matthews on the canvas before he heads to the floor to celebrate with the EXODUS faithful.

David Zinkus: Your winner of this match, by pinfall, “The Big L” Steve Lenton!

Dick Morosi: A big win for Lenton, over a VERY game Chuck Matthews!

Seth Ericson: Matthews with a heck of a showing here tonight, folks. Lenton is not an easy target for an experienced EXODUS grappler, let alone someone in their first night. But Chuck had the Big L scouted, and put on a big performance. I'm sure we'll see more from him in the weeks to come, but for now, we've got to pay some bills!

WINNER: STEVE LENTON

The flashes of still shots that show us what happened at The Downfall of Us All, set to the song of the same name by A Day to Remember continue, with the highlights of what happened just two weeks ago!

- Tiffani Stearns claiming the San Diego Bay Title!

- Lexy Chapel pulling off a surprise upset to become the new International Champion!

- Justin Brooks steamrolling Adrien Cochrane!

- Elimination after elimination in the Cibernetico until only Kira T. Zeppeli remained!

- Finally, the crowning of the 7th EXODUS World Champion, ANDREAS LASIEWICZ! As soon as the music ends, it changes right into "With Me Now" by Blacklite District, the opening theme of EXPRO On FX! As the RIMAC faithful get incredibly hyped up...

EXPRO on FX 14 opens with “Pulse of the Maggots” by Slipknot beginning to play throughout the RIMAC arena, booing striking up as well. Christum Furor makes his way through the curtain dawning his burlap sack, likely to hide his disappoint and gloom more than anything at this particular time. The rest of Gods and Monsters follow, with Ryuji Kamigawa and Kira T. Zeppeli walking through first, followed by Jerry Matthews, Savannah Taylor and Emi Watanabe, who appears to be considerably less dejected than her stablemates and looks like she just wants to tear a new one in someone. The ominous, harbingers of chaos slowly make their way down the ring, with their leader surveying the masses the entire time; though theres hatred being shot in their direction, theres a measure of satisfaction and relief in the audience, due to the fact that the EXODUS Seikigun had all but defeated the G&M menace and won the war prematurely with the Andreas Lasiewicz’s World Title victory. So it would seem anyway. Standing in the ring now, Furor looks over his friends and disciples, then hands Savannah Taylor the microphone as the music fades.

Savannah Taylor: As I look around at the sad excuse for an EXODUS roster, one thing jumps out in my mind. Apparently to be employed here, you either have to know someone or you have to be blowing someone.

The fans shower the blonde with boos, a fact that Savannah seems to brush off as she continues to speak.

Savannah Taylor: You people boo me, but deep down you know I speak the truth. With that being said, the time has come to lead one of the special and favored sheep right up to the gates. This particular person has come into the EXODUS fold with as much pomp and circumstance as one can get. Not only that, but they were immediately thrust into the spotlight upon arrival. The thing that irritates me the most is this person did not EARN her place here in EXODUS. They exploited their friendship with the front office. That stops now. So this goes out to one Angela Jameson. If you thought what I did to you a few weeks ago was bad, the worst is yet to come. Auf Wiedersehen, b*tch.

As the audience continues to boo and jeer, she hands the mic to Christum Furor who now steps forward from the line. As a consequence, the crowd chimes in, greeting him with chants of “You’re No GOD” that immediately get under the revolutionary’s skin. The self proclaimed God of EXODUS scalpel takes a moment to ponder his thoughts, whilst listening to the audience that has been nauseated by the ill wills spewed from the mouth of professional wrestling’s most imposing force today. Still contemplating the right words and phrases, the former World Champion hisses his frustration underneath the burlap sack, breathing heavily into the microphone as he glares out at his detractors. Finally, having composed himself enough to spew his propaganda, the silver tongued sociopath addresses the teaming masses.

Christum Furor: We are living in interesting times, times of great significance to the human condition and to the history of humanity and that of this world of professional wrestling which we inhabit. Whether we move into peace, into the New Age or whether humanity prevents Gods and Monsters from gaining foothold was not determined by the events of The Downfall of us All. Indeed, that night can be considered a setback. A disappointment. But the end of this struggle, the culmination of this war and the complete eradication of Christum Furor and everything I believe in and have worked so hard to build? No. My absolute intellect makes me aware of many things, and that awareness indicates that the Seikigun is basking in their success having moved so far, so quickly. They’re basking in Lexy Chapel.

Chants of “Le-xy-Cha-pel-” build up. Furor turns around to look at his disciples. There are no smiles on their faces. Their is a collective aura of disdain among each and every member, of which is augmented by the grimacing face of their fearless leader.

Christum Furor: And Andreas, Lasiewicz.

Chants of “Las-ie-wicz” now, driving Furor to the edge of insanity as he struggles to control his anger.

Christum Furor: All Will Be Well. The war is over. Words from your self-proclaimed sage, Jonathan Collins. His words speak volumes. They tell me that he and the Seikigun believe that they have won the battle they have sought; however, all that it means is that they have come extremely close to passing that threshold, yet they are already celebrating. It’s all premature, EXODUS. Like any species fending off extinction, trying to preserve it’s way of life and ensure it’s survival, the Seikigun answered the bell. You rose to the occasion, and gave Gods and Monsters your best, something we did not think you had in you, something even I could not see with my all seeing eyes. BUT, I do see the endgame. Despite unfortunate events, my conviction remains intact. My opened pineal gland, my enlightened and unlocked subconscious mind, they grant me power that transcends your limited comprehension - a power to see into the future, and with that foresight, I can assure you that their celebration is much too soon, for there are things the Seikigun does not know about, things even my disciples, even my brother in arms Ryuji Kamigawa does not know, understand, or grasp which only I am aware of.

The madman slowly removes the burlap sack, revealing his deranged countenance. His eyes roll to the back of his head as he takes a deep breath, then reels his oculars back in to glare at the audience. His gritted teeth, and bitter scowl illustrate his antipathy, and the rancor that he is directing at everyone who stands against him and everything he is fighting for.

Christum Furor: The Seikigun, all that you did was prolong the inevitable. You warded off your extinction, but your ecstasy is fleeting, and the winds of change will gust through your universe and blow down the house of straw that you have erected. Your foundation has been built on luck, on a whim, evidenced by Andreas’ victory. YES! The great Andreas Lasiewicz, The Morning Star with all of his grotesque violence, his inhospitable rage, his ungodly rampage and his unrivaled brutality… at the Downfall of us All, all that he proved was that I took him to the limit. All that he proved was that my hubris got the better of me. I broke Andreas. I took him to his breaking point, but through fortune alone, fortunate circumstance and happenstance that he was able to get one over on me. He may have left with the World Championship, but he did not leave the victor. He did not win this war for you, EXODUS. What he did was give me his best. He wrestled a perfect match, yet it was BARELY enough. What the Seikigun did was put their strongest foot forward, throwing their BEST punch, throwing everything they had to do the unthinkable, the impossible, to stretch out their pathetic, and primitive existence a little while longer. HOWEVER, I haven’t even shown my BEST hand.They know it. Andreas knows it. He knows that time is working against him, and that he is a relic of the past that will be torn down to build new monoliths. He knows that I had him on the precipice of defeat, that all of his hopes, his dreams and his legacy had all but gone up in smoke, a smoke that would SUFFOCATE HIM! But alas, he braved the flames and found enough oxygen to escape with more superficialities to pad his ego. More fuel for his bravado. Another trophy for his mantle. HOWEVER, understand that the World Championship means nothing in the grand scheme of it all. Understand that your victory will be short lived.

The crowd boos and starts up another “You’re no GOD!” chant before the Michigander cuts them off.

Christum Furor: Andreas, my word is gospel. It is divine, and that makes me a GOD. My ability to harness dementia, to cultivate and manipulate my madness and turn it into a weapon, that makes me a GOD. My insanity is a nuclear warhead that I have targeted at this corrupt system, this broken system and this hate filled world that we dwell in - a world that has taken EVERYTHING from us, and gives NOTHING in return. I am the existential hero, I have defied fate and the conventional order to create my own destiny, to make this world in MY image. I have ascended to GODSHIP, to break THIS cycle of hatred and create everlasting PEACE in professional wrestling. Through pain, we can understand each other, and through that understanding I will shape the colorless and dull mass of humanity to MY ideal. YOU CANNOT STOP ME. No. Andreas, for you, Jonathan, and the rest of this wretched world are merely human beings at the mercy of, a product of and hostage to ignorance, and THAT ignorance is bliss! THAT ignorance controls you, compels you, and makes you believe that the total destruction of your antiquated beliefs and your illogical idea of morality is not possible, that a changing of the guard and of the times is improbable at any one time allowing you to fall back asleep, thinking you are safe. BUT YOU ARE NOT SAFE!

The fire in Furor’s eyes becomes intense, the hatred in his voice paramount, and the aura of malevolence which encompasses him tainted with more enmity, and darkness. The madman cackles, whilst running a hand through his long, black locks. His gesture is carried out in the most frantic of fashions, as his aforementioned limb quakes and trembles as it rips through his hair follicles.

Christum Furor: You are NOT safe, Andreas. Your world, and everything you believe in is hanging by a thread. You, the Seikigun, Jonathan, you’re all standing on a rope bridge with your flawed ideals and universal hope holding you up - albeit barely. But you’re there, thinking you can pass over to the other side, to what you perceive to be a peaceful resolution, what you think is greener pastures, to an EXODUS that is free of CHRISTUM FUROR, that has defeated Gods & Monsters… but you will NOT get there. You see, I am on the other side of that bridge holding a knife. I am the black sheep, running with a pack of wolves that will tear you apart. With my fellowship, I will sever the ties of the old world, cutting that rope sending you into oblivion, into a dark sea that you will drown in. And that knife I hold Andreas, SHE is my trump card. SHE is everything and more, the solemn hypnotic, my dahlia bathed in possession. SHE is home to me! SHE is EVERYTHING, MY unrequited dream, the song that NO ONE sings, the unattainable, the myth that I BELIEVE IN. SHE IS REAL ANDREAS… she is VERY real! She is the proof of my power, the power that will tip the balance of this civil war, the power that will ensure the success of my ambitions and the power that will be the nail in the coffin and the one in YOUR chest, Lasiewicz. She’s going to cut you deep, and you will NEVER heal from that wound.

The former World Champion stands completely still, seemingly oblivious to the now near deafening boos and jeers of the crowd, staring off into space. The scowl on his visage has vanished now. His countenance is removed, and detached, showing no emotion whatsoever.

Christum Furor: I will show her to you, Andreas. She’s coming. We’re almost ready for you Lasiewicz, the game has only just begun, however SHE will be the final chapter to this narrative. This novel is in its adolescent stages, this story has only just started. However, understand that it is not YOU, who is the protagonist, it is ME. I, like every protagonist has suffered an existential crises. I have been forced into an utterly hopeless situation, forced to walk through the valley and the shadow of death, forced to dwell in the abyss and the most terrifying recesses of my unstable mind. I have risen from those dark places Andreas, I have risen to create my own meaning from these doomed situations. I have grasped the absurd politeness of this daunting task, and I embrace it. I embrace the scrutiny, the hatred, and because of that I appreciate life… I appreciate it because of death, that thing that lays waste to our tentative lives, erases their meaning -- the fate professional wrestling bestowed upon Magnus Gunner, and all of his friends, family and loved ones, the thing that THIS business has shown EVERYONE in it. I have overcome my fate and doom, Andreas, unlike you and Jonathan I am not paralysed by this corruption, by this hate filled world or my own intellect. NO. I can move, I can move throughout history to alter it - to change the past, to rebuild the present, to ensure a brighter tomorrow. And I will do it, Andreas. With HER by my side the NEW AGE will be completed, and you will cease to exist!

“Christ Madness” looks over his disciples, pointing at every one of them before turning back to the ramp himself to finish his spiel.

Christum Furor: This congregation that I preside over has been persecuted, has been vilified, ostracized, dehumanized and oppressed, but it shall come to pass that our manifest destiny will be realized, and that we will live forever as the architects of the future, and the saviors of mankind. All of you, all of you cowards who fear change, who hold onto obsolete codes of ethics, who accept and bow to corruption and urge us to do the same, all of you will be destroyed. You will DIE Andreas. You will DIE Jonathan. You will DIE Fiona. Zack Lifer, Lexy Chapel, Angela Jameson, Blake Jones, Seymour Almasy, TROUBLE. You are nothing. I never knew any of you, and you have threatened and opposed me as well as my followers. You will perish. For that you will be sacrificed for peace. For that, you are about to enter purgatory for as long as I see fit, for as long as SHE wishes it.

As his disciples all pose in his iconic crucifix, Furor’s vacant face fills with color once again. He smiles a devilish grin, looking straight into the camera.

Christum Furor: FOR she will show you that ALL… WILL… BE… HELL… EXODUS.

“Pulse of the Maggots” starts to play as the creative extremist, the leader of G&M Christum Furor can be heard in the background shouting off prophecies and scriptures, combusting in his malicious laughter. The camera slowly begins to draw back, the sounds in the arena become more faint as the picture fades to black and into a commercial break.

As the show moves on, a wide shot of the San Diego audience is shown, most of them up from their seats and cheering. Well, until a small section in the back starts booing. Cameramen near the area try to catch a glimpse and see who it is. They manage to find the 6'5, 267 pound making his way down the steps, dressed in a suit and tie and wearing a big smirk. That man?

Brett Sands.

Dick Morosi: What is Brett Sands doing here?

Seth Ericson: Who cares? This means he's back, right?!

Brett finally makes his way down to Section B before reaching into his suit jacket and pulling out a ticket that basically allows him the right to sit in the aisle seat of Section B. The Section B kids have a look of disgust all upon their faces as Brett Sands continues to keep a shit eating grin on his face. He sits down in the aisle seat and looks over at the rest of the row muttering "What did I miss?"

Dick Morosi: I hope they have a lot of security here tonight! I don't have a good feeling about this.

Seth Ericson: Oh, relax! Brett is a horrible human being and he sure as heck wouldn't interfere in the two most important matches of the night! Seriously, we'd probably just job him to Kamijo and he knows that.

Dick Morosi: Well, if he does, I'd hate to see who he screws and/or pisses off.

Brett looks at the camera and holds up a finger before reaching into his suit jacket again and pulling out a small note card that says "Let's go Blake Jones" in small blue writing. He begins to chuckle as he rips up the paper and throws the pieces on the ground before turning and seeing one of the Section B kids hold up his Fiona Rourke sign. Brett shakes his head and looks right at the redheaded fan before mouthing the words "What a fuckboy" as the show goes on.

Dick Morosi: As my niece told me...Brett Sands is literally the worst.

Seth Ericson: I...actually don't disagree, despite what I said earlier. There is nothing I'd like about Brett Sands.

Dick Morosi: Well, folks, I hope your pizza's arrived, because we're about to be in this one for the long haul.

Seth Ericson: My colleague is right, because it's Cibernetico time at the RIMAC. Ten of the best wrestlers in EXODUS are going to enter the company's first ever Torneo Cibernetico, and the sole survivor becomes the #1 contender for the richest prize in the sport. This thing is gonna be nigh impossible to predict, but I've gotta ask, Dick. Who've you got?

Dick Morosi: I think Team Fiona's going to have more fluid teamwork than Team Kira, but I think Team Kira has more competitors that could be considered favorites, in the form of Zack Lifer and the red-hot Johnny Cannon. Put a gun to my head, though, and it's so hard for me to pick against Fiona Collins. She's been to the dance before, and knows what it takes.

Seth Ericson: I'm going to take one of those two Team Kira favorites you mentioned. Johnny Cannon's launched the #CannonComeback and has looked near unbeatable since returning to EXODUS Pro. This is the kind of match that could launch him into the stratosphere. He's trained like an animal for it, and I think this is Cannon's night.

Dick Morosi: And that's just three of our ten competitors, all of whom we'll touch on as they come to the ring, but for now, let's go up to our intrepid ring announcer, Mister David Zinkus, to get this show on the road!


Zinkus looks resplendent in his PPV tuxedo as he stands center ring, microphone in hand.

David Zinkus: Our next contest at The Downfall of Us All is the BRIGHTEST DAY CIBERNETICO for the #1 Contendership to the EXODUS Pro World Championship! The rules of this contest are as follows! Team captains Fiona Collins and Kira T. Zeppeli have submitted “batting orders” for their five person teams. During the course of the contest, competitors may only tag in the next competitor on the batting order if they wish to tag out of the match. Alternately, a competitor may tag in the next person in the order if they roll out to the floor. Elimination may occur by pinfall, submission, countout, or disqualification. There can only be ONE WINNER of the Brightest Day Cibernetico; if an entire team is eliminated, the remaining team will battle it out amongst themselves until only one competitor remains! Introducing first at this time, team number one!

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

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

Suddenly, the lights go purple and white around the arena as "One for the Money" by Escape the Fate starts to play and the smoke around the entrance way means only one person – the leader and first up in the batting order for Team Fiona, Blake Jones.

Psych.

David Zinkus: Now coming down the aisle...FROM PORTLANDIA AND BATTING LEADOFF FOR TEAM FIONA...SHE IS THE STRONG STYLE SERAPH, FIONAAAAAAAAA COLLINS!



As Fiona makes her way down the aisle, her team begins to follow her out, one by one. They stand alongside Fiona, forming a horizontal line in the middle of the aisleway.

David Zinkus: Second in the batting order for Team Fiona, she is ABBY PARK!

The Korean-American stands next to Fiona on the left, one-hundred percent focused.

Dick Morosi: Let's not forget Abby Park's showing in Winter Road at the genesis of this company – and that she came within an EYELASH of dethroning Fiona Collins for this company's top prize. When Abby Park is on, she is as good as anyone we have in EXODUS.

David Zinkus: Batting third, THE STRONG STYLE SAINT, JAIME ALEJANDRO!

Alejandro, by contrast, looks almost casual, cracking his knuckles, ready for another huge battle in a career full of them.

Seth Ericson: Alejandro's half of Team Collins' veteran presence. He's been all over the world and done just about everything, but he told me that he's never been in one of these before. It's a huge opportunity for the Strong Style Saint.

David Zinkus: Batting cleanup, BLAKE JONES!

The Young Gun stands alongside Abby Park, slapping hands with a few fans nearby – even as he murmurs to himself, some last second encouragement.

Dick Morosi: I've talked to a lot of fans outside the RIMAC tonight, and there are quite a few who think this match is made for Blake Jones. He's young, he's got endurance, and he has all the potential in the world – and the desire to shed the label of potential.

David Zinkus: Finally, last in the batting order for Team Fiona, the Judge Magister, SEYMOUR ALMASY!

Almasy seems calm and collected, looking straight ahead on the ring, at another chance to reverse his luck.

Seth Ericson: He comes into this match on a four match losing streak and openly doubting his own abilities, but his style is, I think, very compatible with this match. He can win with rollups and cradles, he's not dependent on any one style, and he's got experience for days.

The five members of Team Fiona all run forward and slide into the ring simultaneously, and begin to mill about in their corner, clearly discussing some form of last minute strategy.

David Zinkus: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome TEAM FIONA COLLINS!

Dick Morosi: What do you think of the Team Fiona batting order, Seth?

Seth Ericson: I like it, actually. You've got Fiona and Abby coming out of the gate fast, and then Alejandro at the third spot to slow things down. Blake Jones at four speeds it up again, and then Almasy can wrestle either a fast paced match or slow it down if he has to. It's a very versatile lineup, and well picked by Collins, I think.

As Team Fiona step out to the apron, forming their proper batting order, David Zinkus' job is only half done.

David Zinkus: And now, THEIR OPPONENTS!

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

Perhaps unsurprisingly, though, it isn't the captain of Team Kira, but Kira's former fellow soldier, forced to lead the way to the ring by his captain's edict.

Dick Morosi: Whoa! That's!

David Zinkus: Coming down the aisle at this time, batting first for Team Kira T. Zeppeli...ZACK LIFER!

Seth Ericson: It's gonna be Lifer vs. Fiona to start this contest off! Two of the favorites clashing at the opening bell! Lifer can win this match, but I have to wonder if his desire to prove himself to EXODUS might hurt him in some form or fashion over the course of this bout.

A second figure emerges from behind the curtain, announced once his figure is revealed by the light.

David Zinkus: Batting second is SYLAR DRAKE!

Dick Morosi: The former San Diego Bay Champion has the endurance to go the distance in this contest for sure, but it's without doubt the biggest match in his life. Will he step up, or will the moment overwhelm him?

The third member in the batting order appears soon after, her eyes focused on the squared circle.

David Zinkus: Up third, she is ANGELA JAMESON!

Seth Ericson: Jameson was cleared by EXODUS Pro doctors to compete tonight, but I don't know how she can be 100% coming off of Savannah Taylor's attack two weeks ago. She's got the talent to do well in this, but she's going to have to pick her spots, I think.

The man who comes out fourth is, well, unmistakable, both by his energy, the reaction of the fans, and the fact that he refuses to be anonymous.

David Zinkus: Batting fourth...this is JOHNNY CANNON!

Dick Morosi: This right here might be our favorite. He's done nothing but win since coming back, and he's got an aggressive streak that you need to do well in this match!

Last, but certainly not least, is the captain, sauntering out into the RIMAC as if he owns the place to a chorus of boos that he seems to ignore.


David Zinkus: Finally, closing out the order, he is the captain of his team, representing Gods & Monsters, KIRA T. ZEPPELI! THIS IS TEAM KIRA T. ZEPPELI!

Seth Ericson: Interesting lineup – Zeppeli opting to protect himself, but leading with the heavy hitter in Rider. Sylar Drake provides youth and speed, Angela Jameson the experience, and then Cannon and Zeppeli back to back at the bottom of the order.

Dick Morosi: I think it provides a fair counterbalance to what Fiona's done, but only time will tell.

Kira's team makes its way into the ring, having its own last minute strategy session as the official does his level best to get everyone out to the apron who should be and get Cibernetico under way.

Dick Morosi: Fasten your seatbelts, folks, cause this is gonna be a Hell of a bumpy ride!

And with that, two of EXODUS' Pro's best, two semifinalists in the Honor Cup, face off in center ring. One is a former World Champion who has always worn the white hat, another a former God & Monster trying to prove that he can wear it just as truthfully.

*DING DING DING!*

Cibernetico starts off with Lifer leaning in for a collar and elbow tieup, but the quicker Collins slips underneath the attempt. She throws a quick kick, low on Lifer's legs towards the ankle that sweeps him and drops him flat to his backside.

With a roar to the crowd, Fiona hits the farside ropes, and comes back for a basement dropkick, but Lifer lays back, letting the move fly overhead. Lifer returns to his feet, Fiona kipping back up herself, and the pair are at a standstill.

Seth Ericson: Neither competitor wants to give an inch early on. We're in the early stages, both Fiona and Zack are fresh. Success in this match depends largely, in my opinion, on staying fresh. Lots of tags – you want to work tag team strategy, isolate an opposing competitor and work them over.

Lifer surprises Collins with a quick leap, going for his own dropkick which connects high on the chest of the former World Champion. She rises up again, only to walk into a second dropkick. Lifer pumps his fist, waiting on Fiona to rise.

A third dropkick, though, is swatted away, and Fiona quickly dives to capitalize, into an Oklahoma roll, forcing Lifer's shoulders to the mat for Cibernetico's first cover.

ONE!


TWO!


KICKOUT!

Dick Morosi: Only two, but Lifer almost got caught there!

Seth Ericson: Fiona Collins wrestles beyond her years, folks. It's one thing to have the speed and agility that she does, but her husband's imparted some of the knowledge that you can only get from repetition in the squared circle. Combined, it's why she's EXODUS' ace – regardless of the madman who currently holds the title.

Lifer groans, looking a bit sick for a moment as Fiona pantomimes how close the count was. Zack glares at her for a moment, but turns to tag in the next man on his team's batting order. Sylar Drake takes the tag willingly, and steps into the ring to size up the Strong Style Seraph.

Dick Morosi: First tag of the evening, and here comes the Newcastle native!

Drake immediately homes in on the Seraph's powerful legs, throwing a quick pair of shoot-style kicks towards her right leg, trying to knot up the muscles. Finally, Collins has to reach down to catch one of the kicks, only for Drake to get up in the air with the enzuigiri, sending his boot into Fiona's skull with a mighty thud!

With Fiona down, Sylar quickly rolls her over to her back, and leaps for a standing moonsault, holding the landing for the cover.

ONE!

TWO!

KICKOUT!

Seth Ericson: Drake's got to drag Fiona back into the corner with him, if he can. If Team Kira can eliminate Fiona Collins right off the bat, you've got to think that's a huge advantage for them.

It is instead Fiona, though, who manages to grab Sylar's ankle as he gets up off the cover. Holding onto it tenaciously like a bulldog, she drags Sylar back over to her own corner, and manages to tag in Abby Park. Park steps through the ropes and promptly lights Drake up with a big European uppercut to the jaw. Fiona lets go of the ankle and rolls back to the apron, and the contest continues.

Dick Morosi: Instead, it's Fiona who brings in HER partner, Abby Park, who looks 100% ready for the task at hand!

A second and third European uppercut follow from Ms. Park, as does a big thrust to the throat that sends Drake reeling back.

Seth Ericson: She's HARD to deal with, folks. She wrestles like she's six foot three, two hundred fifty pounds, and that's disconcerting as HELL if you're not used to it.

Sylar Drake seems rather unused to it, and as such, he retreats to the sanctity of his corner, tagging in one Angela Jameson, who shows no hesitance in stepping between the ropes.

Dick Morosi: It's time to see just what kind of ring shape the veteran is in!

Jameson charges Park, clearly not wanting Abby to get in any shots on the head as she leaps into a spinning heel kick that catches Abby between the eyes. Rolling Park to her back, Angela clamps on a basic hammerlock, cranking the hold and using leverage to keep Abby on her stomach.

Seth Ericson: This is pretty darned good strategy, in my opinion. Park's not the most adept of technicians, and if Angela can keep Abby grounded, she's got a distinct advantage.

Abby begins to work her way up, though, slowly but surely. To hand and knees she rises, beginning to break the leverage edge. As Jameson bends down to try and re-establish it, she is greeted with a back elbow to the bridge of the nose from Park that neatly forces a break. With a little dive roll that seems almost uncharacteristic for the brawler, she makes it to her own corner, tagging in the Strong Style Saint, Jamie Alejandro, who smiles as he steps into Cibernetico for the first time.

Dick Morosi: THIS is interesting, now. You want to talk about #VetStatus, just think of all the time THESE two have spent in rings. We were supposed to get this as two-thirds of a triple threat match, but Savannah Taylor spoiled that plan.

Alejandro and Jameson eye one another warily, circling one another in center ring. After a moment with locked eyes, the pair nod at one another...and promptly break for their corners, making tags on either end.

Seth Ericson: The Hell was that, Dick?

Dick Morosi: Smart, is what I think most people'd call it. If you're not in the ring, you can't get eliminated. Jamie and Angela have been around the block a time or two. They're going to pick their spots in this thing when they can – never mind that Angela Jameson almost certainly can't be 100%.

The double tag brings Blake Jones and Johnny Cannon into the contest. In contrast to Angela and Jaime, both seem entirely ready to hook it up, hyped up on adrenaline. Blake and Johnny lean into the first collar and elbow tieup of the contest. Cannon has the strength edge, pushing Jones back into the corner. The official moves in, looking for the clean break, but Cannon doesn't necessarily seem intent on giving it.

Blake Jones, though, is guarded, ready for Cannon to take the shot. Cannon hesitates before firing, allowing Jones the chance to slip between Johnny's legs, charge, and drive both knees into the back of the Brit, sending Cannon careening into the turnbuckle. Blake moves to capitalize immediately with a quick schoolboy attempt.

ONE!


TWO!

KICKOUT!

Johnny kicks free, almost looking more embarrassed than anything else. As Jones runs in to capitalize, Cannon returns fire, DROPPING Blake like a shot with a vicious Discus European Uppercut!

Seth Ericson: Sweet Lord, that sounded like...like, well a cannon going off!

Dick Morosi: We know Johnny Cannon well. The guy's a bit cocky, but he can almost always back it up. You just KNOW tonight he's going into this contest looking to take home the biggest win of his career, and deep down, he believes he can do it.

Jones looks stunned, rubbing his jaw in pain, as a hand in his nearby corner extends itself.

Seth Ericson: Almasy wants the tag! He and Cannon went to war just about a month ago, and the Judge Magister wants round two!

With a wry smile, Jones complies, making the emphatic tag in to one Seymour Almasy. The Final Fantasy hops the top rope and immediately gets up in the face of Cannon, who opens fire with a huge European Uppercut. Almasy winces, but returns fire with a vicious knife-edge chop to the chest that echoes through the RIMAC.

Dick Morosi: We're picking up where we left off with these two!

Cannon hits the ropes, looking to take Almasy's head off with a vicious lariat, but Almasy ducks beneath, and goes airborne, tumbling backwards to kick Cannon between the eyes with the toe of his boot!

Seth Ericson: Seymour hit the Pele kick! Out of nowhere, and Cannon's rocking and reeling!

Seymour kips to his feet, and leaps again, spinning into the Sword of Mana! The jump spinning roundhouse sends Johnny Cannon through the ropes and out to the floor.

Dick Morosi: Remember, folks, this is lucha libre rules! Cannon hitting the floor makes Kira T. Zeppeli the legal man!

Zeppeli immediately enters the ring, looking to capitalize on a distracted Almasy, but Seymour sees him coming out of the corner of his eye...

...and promptly charges for the ropes, leaping up and over the top rope onto Johnny Cannon on the outside with a huge somersault plancha!

Seth Ericson: Holy shit! Almasy wasn't joking around about expanding the playbook!

Dick Morosi: And that now means Almasy's no longer legal, and...oh SHIT.

Zeppeli's charge towards Seymour stops dead as he realizes the new legal man – or woman, as the case is. A grinning Fiona Collins steps into the ring, rubbing her hands together, ready to get some vengeance on one of the more persistent thorns in her family's side.

Seth Ericson: Let's face facts – Zeppeli's one of the only people in this company who can boast a victory over Fiona. He's got a reputation as a giant killer. It's captain versus captain right now!

Zeppeli regards Fiona carefully, a wicked grin on his face as he licks his lips. Crossing the distance between them almost casually, he lunges and promptly punches Fiona square in the face, dropping her to the canvas as the Eater of Despair practically salivates at the meal laid out before him.

Dick Morosi: Kira is a weird dude, and in THIS company, that's saying something.

As Kira bends down to continue his onslaught, though, Collins quickly wraps her legs around the head of the opposing captain, popping her hips quickly to snap him over with a modified huracanrana from her back. Zeppeli flies ass over teakettle, only to get back up and charge at a kneeling Fiona.

Collins scores with a double palm thrust to the stomach, then a leaping Dragon Punch style uppercut that snaps Zeppeli's head back.

Seth Ericson: Collins is doing her level best to keep Kira off balance here, and that strategy's paying dividends thus far.

Grabbing hold of the head of Kira, she quickly sits down, catching Zeppeli with the Soul Caliber, before quickly grabbing hold of a leg and hooking it to go for the elimination.

ONE!

TWO!

THR—KICKOUT BY KIRA!

Dick Morosi: Fiona's cooking on all cylinders! Kira was ready to pounce on Almasy, but the dive to the floor brought Collins into this contest, and she seems more than ready for one of G&M's finest lieutenants!

Zeppeli seems all kinds of out of sorts, staggering back as she advances on him. Soon, it is apparent the move is a ploy, and Zeppeli catches Collins with a quick drop toe hold, sending her hard into the second turnbuckle.

The Gods & Monster member shoots a hard look to his former teammate, Zack Lifer, and extends a hand for the tag. Lifer makes it reluctantly, and Kira points to the top rope. Lifer begins to climb as Zeppeli hoists Fiona astride his shoulders in an electric chair position.

Seth Ericson: Some reluctant teamwork, it seems, from Kira and Zack!

Lifer poises himself and leaps off the top rope, clotheslining Fiona off of Zeppeli's shoulders! Collins lands awkwardly on the canvas as Kira leaves the ring, leaving Zack to crawl over to the downed Fiona, shoot the half, and make his cover.

ONE!



TWO!



THRE—NO!

Dick Morosi: The former allies dialed up the Doomsday Device! Fiona Collins is in significant trouble – and worse, if you're on Team Fiona, do you even WANT to save her?

Seth Ericson: I say no, Dick. Not this early. Four on five is reasonable, even without the captain. If there was already an elimination on Team Fiona, though...THEN that calculation gets real, REAL interesting. Ciberneticos have a ton of subtle strategy, which I'm sure we'll see unfold before our eyes here tonight in San Diego.

Lifer picks Collins up, butterflying her arms tightly, before snapping down to the mat with a sudden, high impact double-arm DDT. Zack wastes no time, rolling Fiona over for another cover.

ONE!


TWO!


THR—NO! SHOULDER UP!

Lifer nods at the resilience of the second EXODUS Pro World Champion, grabbing her arm and putting it in a quick arm-wringer to hold her in place, dragging her over as he tags Sylar Drake into the contest.

Dick Morosi: I have to say, I'm impressed with Zack Lifer in this so far. The biggest danger for Zack would be trying to play heroball and do it by himself, so these quick tags are a good sign for him in the contest.

Seth Ericson: Gotta wonder if it can last, though. If Team Kira loses a couple, I could very easily see Zack try to take on the leading role. Time will tell, though.

Drake enters the contest via the top rope, driving a double-axehandle onto the trapped arm of Fiona Collins. As Lifer lets go of her, she makes a break for her corner, but Sylar is too fast, grabbing her by the ankle and causing her desperation lunge to fall flat on her face.

To her credit, she is up to hands and knees, and then her feet soon after, but she can't find Sylar Drake.

The reason is simple; Drake charges from behind, clobbering her with a lariat to the back of the head that drops Collins right back down to the canvas. Sylar rolls her over, and pulls her closer to center ring before making his cover and hooking the leg.

ONE!


TWO!


THR—NO! KICKOUT AT THE LAST SECOND!

Dick Morosi: Fiona Collins needs a tag here – BADLY. Team Kira right now is just tagging in and out, staying absolutely fresh, and landing one or two big blows on Fiona per person.

Seth Ericson: It's hard when you're stuck in the opposite corner, though! Give Team Kira credit – this strategy is paying BIG dividends!

It's Drake's turn to execute it, tagging in Angela Jameson almost as quickly as he had entered the ring. The sixteen year veteran wastes little time setting up Collins, positioning herself to try and end the tenure of Fiona in the match with one of her most notable tactics.

Dick Morosi: Jameson wants the Widow Maker! If she can snap Fiona over with it, Team Kira is in the driver's seat!

Collins knows it, too, and executes the only counter she has in the playbook, hooking the trapped legs, and then sitting down before Angela can rotate, driving her face-first to the canvas, and buying the Strong Style Seraph desperately needed time.

Seth Ericson: Abby Park is on the apron, absolutely clamoring for the tag! That's another element of this match to remember – Fiona HAS to tag Abby as per the batting order! She can't bring in Alejandro, Almasy, or Blake Jones!

To her detriment, though, Jameson's body is between her and her corner. Thinking quickly, Fiona log-rolls towards the apron, under the bottom rope, and down to the floor. The splat she makes on the mats is welcome - she's not legal anymore in the match.

Dick Morosi: Or she can get out to the floor! The floor is Fiona Collins' salvation, because it's as good as a tag! Abby Park's in the contest now!

Park hurries into the ring, greeting Angela Jameson with a straight backfist to the jaw. The blow snaps Angela's head back, and Park goes to the abdomen in response with a series of punches to the gut. As Jameson doubles over, Abby seizes a front facelock.

Seth Ericson: I think we're about to find out just how well Angela's recovered from that concussion!

Abby falls back and drives Angela Jameson head-first to the canvas with a big DDT. Park goes for the cover immediately, intent on capitalizing.

ONE!

TWO!

KICKOUT!

Dick Morosi: Big kickout for Jameson, there. The skull seems to be holding up well, so far.

Angela rolls to her stomach after the kickout, in an effort to avoid a followup cover. Park picks her up, and eats a forearm to the face, only to return fire. The two women exchange stiff forearm shots center ring, until Angela begins getting the better of it.

Jameson uses a sharp kneelift to the stomach, and fires Abby into the ropes. Angela loads up a spinning kick, but Park ducks underneath it and accelerates off the rebound, leaping into the air with a big high knee that catches Jameson on the chin.

Seth Ericson: All aboard the Seoul Train, folks!

Abby grabs Angela by the leg, tugging her back towards her corner. She makes the tag to Jaime Alejandro, who doesn't hesitate getting back in the ring.

Dick Morosi: Alejandro looks a bit happier to be hooking it up with Angela Jameson this time around.

Seth Ericson: Of course, he's got the advantage now!

Jameson, though, gets to her feet before Jamie can press the advantage. The two veterans stare at one another mid-ring as Alejandro drops down into a boxing stance, throwing some jabs Angela's way that she evades. Angela retorts with a knife-edge chop that she grazes a backing up Alejandro with.

Dick Morosi: Alejandro hasn't logged any real ringtime in this contest up until now. There's a lot of strategy here – do you want to stay in a while and get warmed up, while running the risk of getting caught, or do you want to keep shorter stints?

Jaime scores with a quick snapped off jab to the the face. He tries to whip Angela into the corner, only to have the Irish whip reversed. Jameson follows him in, handspringing into an elbow that digs into the chest cavity of the Strong Style Saint.

As Alejandro totters out of the corner, she armdrags him over, quickly moving to capitalize by climbing the turnbuckle. She sits down quickly, with a split-legged moonsault that scores. Grabbing the leg, Angela hooks it deep, looking for three.

ONE!


TWO!


THR-NO!

Seth Ericson: Jameson's getting out of the blocks here, but her fellow veteran is having his troubles.

Angela snapmares Alejandro over in the direction of her corner, extending the hand to tag in Johnny Cannon. Cannon comes into the ring and drops a knee on Alejandro's chest, before going for a quick cover.

ONE!

TWO!

NO!

Dick Morosi: Interesting matchup here between Jaime and Johnny, if Alejandro can get on track. Both guys hit about as hard as anyone in EXODUS Pro.

Cannon beckons for Alejandro to get up, and Jaime obliged, surging from his knees with a right cross. Johnny returns fires with a roundhouse kick to the abdomen, driving the air from the lungs of Jaime. The Strong Style Saint, though, whips a Muay Thai-style leg kick that catches Cannon right above the knee and causes a yell of pain.

Jaime charges the hobbling Cannon, taking him to the canvas with a lightning quick STO!

Seth Ericson: The Space Tornado Ogawa buys Alejandro some time. Jaime Alejandro's offense is based around striking and basic moves, and then when it's time to try to ice a contest, the complexity ratchets up immensely.

Dick Morosi: That makes him more dangerous the longer he can remain in Cibernetico. If he's got tired opponents he can hit things like the Hydra-Plex on, he gets one-move elimination power.

Cannon is picked up unceremoniously by Jaime, who pushes him back into the corner. Alejandro works over the six-pack of Cannon with a series of sharp punches and kneelifts to the abdomen, before backing off.

Looking for the Air Assault, Alejandro charges, only to EAT a huge counter-lariat from Cannon! After drilling the Strong Style Saint, Cannon considers going to the corner to tag in Kira, but decides against it for the moment.

The former Tag Team and International Champion backs up, instead, waiting on Alejandro to rise. Within moments, it becomes clear that he's looking to ice the contest with one of his signature maneuvers.

Seth Ericson: I think Johnny wants the Birmingham Screwdriver!

Indeed, Cannon charges the rising Alejandro, leaving his feet for the Busaiku Knee, but Alejandro whirls out of the way! Johnny Cannon's body flies between the second and third ropes, and he manages to rotate for a four point landing on the mats on hands and knees to protect himself.

Dick Morosi: Alejandro evades disaster, but here comes a man more than willing to feed off of his despair.

Kira T. Zeppeli steps back into the contest, eyeing Alejandro. Having taken a few knocks, Jamie responds by making the tag over to Blake Jones, next up for Team Fiona. The fresh Jones has no problem obliging, getting into the ring to go one on one with his fellow former San Diego Bay Champion.

Seth Ericson: These two guys don't like each other either. There are a lot of pairings we're going to get tonight of friendly rivalries, but there's some dislike in this match, too.

Dick Morosi: Most of it involving Mr. Zeppeli, as G&M's sole representative in this contest.

Seth Ericson: If Zeppeli can somehow win this, he'd have the despair of THOUSANDS of EXODUS fans to feed off of. It would be like Thanksgiving dinner for him!

Dick Morosi: I think you've been here a little too long if you're actually starting to believe that the man EATS DESPAIR.

Whether Kira eats despair or not, Blake Jones makes him eat an elbow to the face. Zeppeli ponders this for a moment, before shooting a sudden double-leg takedown, catching Blake totally off guard. In the mount, Kira rains down punches as Blake turtles.

And then, well, Zeppeli decides to get a taste of despair.

By which I mean he bites Blake Jones' forehead, forcing the referee to step in and threaten the DQ to get Zeppeli to break.

Seth Ericson: See! See! Totally eating despair!

Dick Morosi: This place really makes me wonder sometimes...

Zeppeli picks up Blake by the hair and sends him to the corner, but as he charges in, Blake swings himself onto the apron, getting himself up and launching into the ring with a Jones Equation! Zeppeli rolls out of the ring, bringing Zack Lifer in, who goes after Blake, but Blake rolls over to his corner to bring in Almasy, who leaps in with a huge missile dropkick to Lifer! Lifer hits the mat with a thud, and Drake doesn't seem too interested in reaching in to help tag Lifer. Lifer gets up and looks, and nobody seems to want to help him out, leavingn Almasy to grab Lifer...ILLUSION OF GAIA! Lifer is stranded there, and nobody seems to want to help him out! He tries to reach out and as he does...HE ACTUALLY TAGS IN SYLAR DRAKE! Drake looks at Lifer and he charges in with a boot to Seymour's face! Seymour is trying to regather his thoughts now that he's been booted, Drake picking him up and whipping him to the ropes, but it's a blind tag from Fiona, and as soon as Drake goes for a clothesline, Seymour ducks and slides out of the ring, bringing Fiona in to springboard herself...SHINIGAMI! SHE HOOKS THE LEG!

ONE!






TWO!






THREE!

David Zinkus: SYLAR DRAKE HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

Dick Morosi: That's just how good Fiona Collins is! She caught Drake sleeping, hit the Shinigami, and just like that, her team's got the advantage!

Seth Ericson: If I was Fiona, I'd take a powder now! Angela Jameson's about to step in, but she looks a little less irritated than previously.

Indeed, Angela and Fiona are staring one another down, and Fiona and her nod, each bumping a fist before starting to lock up. The two wind up getting into a neutral corner, Angela powering her in there. Fiona and her break up at a four count, each of them looking at one another with a respectful nod. With a sigh, the former World Champions lock up again, and it's Fiona who gets the upper hand, putting in a wrist lock. With no hesitation, she goes and reaches for the tag in her corner to Park. The two whip Angela to the ropes and as she bounces back, they catch her with a hip toss, but they catch her and each flip her back so she lands face first! Fiona leaves and Abby starts to get up to go after Angela, who she whips to the rope again, this time she ducks down and Angela leaps and goes for a suns---NO! IT'S THE WIDOWMAKER! Hook of the leg!

ONE!




TWO!







THREE!

David Zinkus: Abby Park has been eliminated!

Dick Morosi: Just like that, the odds have been evened out again!

Seth Ericson: Angela Jameson is looking sharp tonight, no real signs of problems from the attack two weeks ago. This is the GDW legend we heard so much about on the way in!

Jaime Alejandro steps in, and he gives Angela a look. The respect of well traveled veterans are there, but it's clear the reality is sinking in for both, leaving them to start brawling again, Angela raking the eyes to gain a small advantage, pushing him back toward the corner to tag in Johnny Cannon. Cannon starts to pepper Alejandro with shots to the chest, Jaime trying to put his arms up to guard him. Instantly, Kira tags Cannon and the two double irish whip Alejandro to a neutral corner, Zeppeli whipping Cannon twoards Jaime, but Cannon reverses and Kira flies in with a huge splash! Jaime quickly rolls out of the ring, Blake Jones coming in to help him, immediately going back after Kira. Kira isn't afraid to go back to his corner and force Lifer into the ring to get to work against Blake Jones. Jones sighs and instantly starts to circle the ring to prepare to face Lifer. They meet for a tie up, but Lifer gets the advantage and gets Blake into a headlock. Blake tries to push him off into the ropes, but Lifer reverses and sends Blake to the far side, but he slides out and Seymour uses the opportunity to leap in and catch Lifer...hurricanrana! Lifer lands hard and starts wincing in pain, and The Judge Magister begins to gain some momentum as he bounces off the ropes, a sliding dropkick to the face of the Lifer! He looks around, the crowd cheering for the veteran, and he starts to size up Lifer for Save the Queen...but after he charges in, Lifer sidesteps it and turns Almasy around...FORCED SUICIDE! Angela leaps to tag Lifer and she leaps to the top turnbuckle...BITTERSWEET SERENADE! She's trying to get the pin, but Cannon tags himself and forces his opportunity to take the pin!

ONE!















TWO!















THREE!

David Zinkus: SEYMOUR ALMASY HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

Dick Morosi: That was HUGE teamwork by the team captained by Kira T. Zeppeli!

Seth Ericson: Say what you will about his recent problems, but Seymour is still a threat in that ring and the team treated him as such. They used quite a bit to put him down, and now Fiona's team is in a huge bind!

Fiona slowly gets in after Seymour's elimination, leaving her to glance at Cannon across the ring from her. Kira T. Zeppeli wastes no time in tagging himself in, forcing Cannon to the sidelines, knowing the two of them have some unfinished history. The two captains keep coming back to those problems, knowing where each of them stand on the spectrum. As the two start to lock up again, Fiona gets whipped to he ropes, but she reverses, and she instantly hits Kira with a single knee facebuster! Quickly, she tags in Alejandro as she starts to put the former San Diego Bay champ in a surfboard. When Jaime gets in, he starts to bounce off the ropes and charge as Fiona rolls so Kira is elevated and she flings him off her arms and legs into Jaime, who catches and brings him down with a massive spinebuster! It's great double team work from the two, and Kira rolls out of the ring, bringing in Zack Lifer, who is suddenly a little more nervous about facing his friend. The two start to glance at one another, nodding as they know what comes next. They meet in the ring and Jaime slaps Lifer in the face, daring h im to get strong and get ready to go. Lifer responds in kind, and the two start trading blows, hoping to get an advantage on one another! Neither of them really wants to give up, that much is obvious, and it's even more clear that the two are evenly matched. Lifer gets a hard slap on the shoulder from Angela Jameson, and he turns his head as Angela comes in, stomping on Jaime's toes as he seems a little unhappy this competitive match up between him and The Strong Style Saint was interrupted. Angela whips Jaime to the corner, instantly charging forward to hit him with a massive Kenka kick, dropping him to the ground, and coming back in and nailing him with a face wash kick! Cannon tags in and he instantly starts hammering Jaime in the corner after a tag, practically stomping a whole in Alejandro's chest, but next comes Kira, and the three of them have continued to beat down Alejandro, who looks like he's starting to get on last legs after this brutal assault, leaving Lifer to get frustrated, coming over to the corner to yell at Kira to stop and let him up, to have a competitive match. With Kira ignoring him, Lifer gets into the ring and gets into his face, the two of them starting to yell at one another, Lifer beginning to irritate Cannon, who has also come in to stop yelling at him.

Dick Morosi: Lifer isn't helping himself make friends here.

Seth Ericson: Zack Lifer doesn't know the meaning of the word friend.

The group is arguing and Kira yells at Lifer, barking at him to get back into the corner...WHICH IS ALL THAT LIFER CAN STAND, AND HE NAILS KIRA! He realizes what he's done, and he looks surprised and angry at himself, shaking his head at what he's done, trying to start make it right. That's when "The Imperial March" starts to play, Cleon Gray coming down as he was flanked by his personal security, Lifer upset as he knows what's coming. He starts yelling at Cleon to show some mercy, insisting that he was goaded into it by the team captain, but the Cleon is issuing his ruling to the referee, handing him a juice box before starting to return to the back, the referee explaining to Zack that he has been eliminated before going to Zinkus.

David Zinkus: Ladies and gentlemen, I have just been informed that Zack Lifer has just been eliminated! Furthermore, per the instructions of Cleon Gray, I have been told that next week, Zack Lifer will be put...in time out!

Dick Morosi: Time out? What the hell does that mean?

Seth Ericson: I'm not even sure, but this doesn't sound good for Zack Lifer.

Lifer continues to try to follow after Cleon, pleading his case, but back in the ring, Jaime is starting to get up slowly, Angela getting back into the ring as she starts to set up Jaime...he's practically limp by the time she sets him up on the turnbuckle...FALL FROM GRACE! SHE HITS THAT AND HE ROLLS OUT OF THE RING, PRACTICALLY UNCONSCIOUS! Blake gets into the ring and gets right into it with Angela...but she gets the upper hand, tagging in Cannon who comes in...CLOCKWORK ORANGE! He picks him up and whips him to the ropes...ROUNDHOUSE KICK! CANNON COVERS!

ONE!










TWO!










THREE!

David Zinkus: BLAKE JONES HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

And that's when it sets in. Jaime is unconscious on the ground, being attended to. There's three people in the ring. Fiona, for better or for worse, stands alone.

Dick Morosi: I don't like the odds of The Stardust Seraph.

Seth Ericson: Fiona is not looking good right now, all things considered. She's got a huge mountain to climb, and she might be facing it alone.

Fiona slowly gets into the ring, Cannon waiting on her. The two start to move closer, and the two start to lock up, Cannon whipping her into the ropes. Fiona quickly does a handstand, getting back up to go for the Shinigami, but Cannon ducks! He goes for a legsweep, but she leaps and flips back, coming back in for a Shinigami, but Cannon swoops and hits her with a side kick! Cannon sees her down and starts to lift her...CANNON DRIVER II!

ONE!













TWO!
























KICK OUT! SHE HAS THE STRENGTH TO KICK OUT! Cannon starts to get up and yell at the referee, it's history repeating to him all over again! Cannon turns back and sees Fiona down and recognizes he can't have that happen all over again! He starts to go back to her to get her to her feet, only to be pushed off by a roaring elbow!

Dick Morosi: CLEAR EYES!

FIONA HITS THE PALM STRIKE!

Seth Ericson: FULL HEART!

She leaps for the Dropsault, but he backs up, leaving her to land on her feet, and he brings her down with a Birmingham Screwdriver! He starts screaming at her, declaring himself the new Ace of EXOD--AND HE GETS MET WITH A GIGANTIC SPEAR FROM A RETURNING JAIME ALEJANDRO! Fiona rolls out of the ring, and that spear sends Cannon out of the ring, leaving Zeppeli to come charging in toward Alejandro, who ducks the charge, catches Zeppeli...STRAIGHT TO HADES! Kira rolls out of the ring, Angela coming in and she leaps at Jaime...only to be met with a huge muy thai kick! He grabs Jameson...SANCTI! HE HOOKS!

ONE!




















TWO!
























THREE!

David Zinkus: ANGELA JAMESON HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

He gets up and Cannon quickly grabs him and spins him...ROUNDHOUSE KICK! THAT THING JUST KNOCKED JAIME OUT AND CANNON COVERS...

ONE!























TWO!
















THREE!

David Zinkus: JOHNNY CANNON HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

Cannon starts celebrating and screaming, but Fiona leaps in and rolls forward and stands up...SHINIGAMI! SHE HOOKS!

ONE!






















TWO!




















THREE!

David Zinkus: JOHNNY CANNON HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

She gets up and she looks in pain, but the reality is staring at her again, and she knows it's down to two people. There she is...and there's Kira T. Zeppeli.

Dick Morosi: It's down to the final two, and they are no strangers to one another tonight or ever!

Seth Ericson: Someone's got to win this, and it's down to the Surgeon of Gods & Monsters and the Ace of EXODUS!

Fiona starts to get up and she looks winded and frustrated, and even Kira looks as tired, but the two know the prize waiting for them at the end of the road. That being said, the two rush to the center of the ring and start to pound away at one another, squeezing every last bit of energy in the tanks to take one another out. Kira gets the advantage, and tries to whip Fiona to the ropes, but she handsprings and leaps, finding herself back on his shoulders, and he holds on, going for A Terri--DRAGONRANA FROM COLLINS! FIONA ROURKE WITH A MASSIVE DRAGONRANA! She starts to pound on the mat, psyching herself up, and as she starts to size him up...she charges...KIRA STARTS TO COUGH UP BLACK MIST ALL OVER FIONA'S FACE! SHE'S BLINDED!

Dick Morosi: What the hell?

Seth Ericson: Well...I'd say that's liquid despair...

Fiona is blinded and quickly trying to rub her eyes to see again, but Kira grabs her...FEEDING TIME! NO! NOT LIKE THIS! HE HOOKS THE LEG!

ONE!


















TWO!


























THREE!

The bell has rung! "Rain of Brass Petals" starts again, and the crowd is stunned silent, Kira sitting on the mat, his hand being raised!

David Zinkus: The winner of the first Brightest Day Cibernetico...KIRA T. ZEPPELI!

Dick Morosi: I'm...I'm at a loss for words. Fiona Collins was so close, and if it wasn't for Zeppeli practically getting sick on The Stardust Seraph, this may not have been what we saw!

Seth Ericson: Call a spade a spade! Fiona was great, Kira was just better tonight! He did what he had to do, and he's put Gods & Monsters in the driver's seat! If Christum Furor retains, he has someone he trusts as the number one contender! If Lasiewicz wins, they can quickly regain the title!

WINNER: KIRA T. ZEPPELI

As he walks back to the locker room victoriously, Fiona starts to get up after a few referees have used water to wash out her eyes, she slaps the mat angrily, realizing what's just transpired. Standing up, she looks near ready to cry, and she's quickly joined by Jimmy Riley, Payton James and her husband, Jonathan Collins. Fiona just looks so angry, kicking one of the bottom turnbuckles as they remain there for her, all while they just start clapping for her. Finally, she stops and looks out at the crowd, waving as her eyes look misty, the sounds of "Keep Hope Alive" by The Crystal Method start to play, and she starts walking back with them, still frustrated and dejected.

All is well until the lights of the RIMAC suddenly go dark, a calm air about the arena as the pitch black canvas around them gives way to only a few cell phones that remain alight, a hushed commotion as people wonder what's going on. Some speculate Gunner, some speculate Sylar Drake, when suddenly the sound of a record player starts to play, a quiet white noise haunting the arena and leaving the crowd speechless. The EXOScreen fills with brown speckles mixed with gold, various shades spread throughout as the snow gives way to a white wall hidden behind it.

That's when a figure makes his way towards the scene, a burlap sack covering his face and a Gods & Monsters T-shirt underneath a brown opened sweatshirt, the zipper pulled down all the way. The man leaned forward towards the camera, checking to make sure it was taping, his burlap sack all everyone in the crowd could see, before backing up against the wall, his arms extending apart and his head dipping back, fists clenched as he posed to the camera to the crowd's jeers and hatred. A slight laugh left his lips, a boyish laugh to be certain. It was unmistakable, something that caused the crowd to again mumble in confusion.

The man swiftly grabs the burlap sack from his head, slamming it to the ground and a loud thud is heard, signifying he's stepped on it harshly. Another thud, and another. That's when the man finally looked up, brushing the hair out of his eyes to give the crowd a laugh, his signature laugh as he smiled for the camera.

Zack Lifer: How's it going, Section B? Enjoying the show?

Some of the crowd cheer, realizing what is happening already. Others still remain confused, the soft mumbling continuing.

Zack Lifer: Isn't it hilarious what you can buy on AMAZON? A burlap sack? Really? Why the heck are they even selling burlap sacks on the internet anyhow? Well, I'll never know but least I still had the shirt. It seemed fitting for the occasion, don't you think?

Another smirk, the crowd letting out soft laughs at his words and his antics, some bewildered and listening to his every word.

Zack Lifer: Do I have your attention now, EXODUS? Do I have your attention now? Gods & Monsters. They want us so badly to take them seriously, want us to fear the ground they walk on, but frankly I don't see it. I don't see how a bunch of idiotic delusional bastards can possibly bring fear to the world, can possibly cause men and women alike to 'cower' at the name Christum Furor. Can you?

Silence, the whole crowd watching intently.

Zack Lifer: Kira broke into my home and... Well, I'd rather not talk about it. It's creepy, sure, but all will be well. Nicholas Gray promised me, remember? He promised me! So, it's the truth. It's always been the truth. And you gotta realize something, guys - he's still Magnus Gunner. Much as he wants you to believe he had evolved into a creature capable of being called a god, in all actuality, I've seen the type back in the Westview Mental Hospital. People pretend they're superior, delusions of grandeur with grandioso claims that exceed what we're really capable of. He claims we're the villains as he tears down buildings and destroys lives in his wake, but in reality, he's just playing with fire, asking to get burned!

His fist rises in front of the screen, his hand suddenly opening as Zack let out the sound of a cartoony explosions with his lips before his arms fell to his side once again.

Zack Lifer: I've seen it all before, plenty of times in fact. He needs help, serious help, but I think he's too far gone. I think Magnus Gunner is trapped under lock and key and it's a pity my friend is gone forever, but it's a reality I gotta face...

Head hanging low, he stands there, in deep thought as he remembers the words Gunner told him at one point in time. He looked up, moments passing for what seemed like minutes yet were only ten seconds or so.

Zack Lifer: Learn from Gunner, everyone. Be yourself. Don't be a god, don't be a monster, be yourself 'cause everyone else? Everyone else is taken. And goddamn it, you'll all learn that truth, all of you trying to shape yourselves into something you're not like Jerry and Sylar is despicable, as if the words mean absolutely nothing to you. Yet, here I stand, always the same me. Same brown static I've been known to use since xWo - the early years - and same Zack Lifer. Better, definitely, but still the same Zack Lifer you've always known!

A smile crosses his face, a slight laugh leaving his lips again.

Zack Lifer: Why am I here? Why did I decide to interrupt your great broadcast? 'Cause I'm here to tell you that I'm here to take down every single God and every single Monster who stands in my path and there's nothing they can possibly do to hinder my path. You made yourself a dangerous enemy, an enemy who laughs in the face of the legendary Lassie from the first day I've came on the scene - even before my official signing - and a guy that'll be here to kick some sense into each and every one of you who think they feel the need to try and change things around here for the worst!

The crowd watches as he speaks, listening to each and every syllable.

Zack Lifer: The New Age is a farce, a sham! It's a joke to be laughed at and belittled! When this match is over, either by Lasie's hand or mine, this New Age is coming to an end and it won't be long before I'm holding that World Title and fulfilling the dream I've had since the very beginning! I'll finally be at the top, doing something that everyone in the world said I could never do and tonight, I finally get my chance! I'm a fan favorite to win this, the guy everyone suspects to stand at the end of this match. I won't let you down. I won't let you all down, Section B! This match means absolutely everything to me and I'm willing to do whatever it takes to stand at the top of the rope, confetti falling from the sky, so I can finally look into the eyes of all the critics, look into the eyes of all the doubters, and say that one simple phrase I've been dying to say since the first time I laced on these boots!

Reaching down, the man grabs the burlap sack in his hand, holding it beside him for the camera. A smile creeps up across his face, a heavy boyish laugh escaping his lips as he looks dead in the camera lens' direction and into the eyes of everyone watching.

Zack Lifer: I told you so.

Dropping the burlap sack, he leans closer to the camera, his chocolate brown eyes the only thing we see as he says his final words.

Zack Lifer: Thanks for having faith in me. Tonight, I live up to all that faith.

As the final words are said, the screen is filled with more brown static filling the screen, the soft white noise coming into play for a brief moment as the sound of a record player stopping hits the PA system. The sounds stop, the lights rise, and a loud "Lifer! Lifer!" chant can be heard from the RIMAC crowd, the loudest as of yet.

Dick Morosi: Zack Lifer made his point, and tonight, he'll have a chance to realize his dreams during the Brightest Day Cibernetico.

Seth Ericson: Well he's got to go through nine other people to achieve the dream, and none of them are willing to help him.

Dick Morosi: Dreams have a funny way of coming true for good people though, and there's a chance for a dream to come true tonight!  The International Title is on the line when Lexy Chapel goes one on one with Jerry Matthews next!




David Zinkus: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and is for the EXODUS International Championship!

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



David Zinkus: Introducing first, the challenger. From North London, England, weighing in at one hundred and fourteen pounds… she is the undefeated Lexy! CHAPEL!

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

Dick Morosi: This girl is on fire. She is our Katniss Everdeen, Seth. Undefeated, coming into the biggest match of her life. Can Lexy Chapel stop the unstoppable? Can she defeat Jerry Matthews?

Seth Ericson: Vegas says no. My mind says no. My heart says yes. This crowd says yes. We’ve seen crazier things happen here in EXODUS, Dick. One things for sure, this is her chance to become a star here in this company.

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



As the music continues blaring, Lexy Chapel walks out on to the stage carrying with her a camera-phone. She walks to the left of the stage, filming the fans cheering, and then to the right of the stage, filming more fans cheering wildly before turning the camera around on herself and can be seen mouthing the word 'wow' in to the camera. After listening to the crowd reaction a moment longer she spins around and poses on the stage.



As the music continues to play she begins to make her way down to the ring, filming the fans as she walks past them and posing with a few of them, holding the camera out in front of herself as she leans back in to a group of the fans. As the chorus of the song begins she slides in to the ring and climbs up on to the turnbuckles, filming the fans again with her phone.

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

She leaps down from the turnbuckles and walks to the middle of the ring before spinning around and turning the phone back on herself again, kissing the lens of the camera and then putting it in to her pocket. She removes her ring jacket and slips it in to her former before jumping back on to the turnbuckles again and posing, then flipping off backwards and standing in her corner, readying herself for the match.

As Josh Turner's "Long Black Train" begins to play, "The Evangelist" Jerry Matthews strides down the aisle in a suit and tie. In his hand, he carries a Bible and begins his regular sermon as he ventures down to the ring.

David Zinkus: And her opponent. From Redemption, Alabama, weighing in at two hundred and seventy-five pounds. Representing Gods & Monsters he is the International Champion… Jerry! MATTHEWS!

His spiritual liaison, Deacon Jeremiah, accompanies him to ringside with an offering plate, ready to collect money from any believers in the crowd. As he gets to the ring, he climbs through the ropes and removes his suit. He then raises his Bible in a preachly manner to the crowd as they boo incessantly.

Dick Morosi: Jerry Matthews has everything stacked in his favor. The size, the strength, the experience, and the fact that he tried to injure Chapel at the last show, and may have well succeeded in doing so.

Seth Ericson: Smart move on his part. Chapel’s breathing down on his neck. These hoes be acting up, but Matthews ain’t letting them.

Dick Morosi: Seth, really? What the hell was that?

Seth Ericson: I’ve been hanging with Black Jones recently. I’m not responsible for anything coming out of my mouth right now. But enough about that, that’s the bell. Time to TURN UP!

*DING! DING! DING!*

The two superstars circle around one another; Lexy cautiously keeps her distance, as she knows it’s unwise and foolish to charge in at Matthews who is much too big, and much too strong for her to try and get into any sort of power game. Sensing her anxiety, aware of her desire not to get into an early confrontation, Jerry seeks out the contact and lurches forward. Chapel immediately sidesteps him, then fires in with a quick kick to his thigh muscle, causing the Reverend to turn around sharply and grimace. The British highflyer makes sure theres a few feet betweens she and her antagonist, and it appears she’s going to stay true to her strategy of admiring from afar. The International Champion smiles, sensing her jittery disposition, as he’s well aware of the fact that this is the young superstar’s first title match. Jerry knows he has the psychological edge - which is just another advantage to add to a laundry list of them that he can brandish over his opponent. Speaking of his adversary, he lunges at her again, only to have the fleet of foot aerialist circumvent him once more. This time she lands a kick to the knee, then immediately follows up with a series of the as she intends to cut her humongous nemesis down like a tree. Jerry, however, has had enough of the feeling out process and catches her leg with one arm, then catches her around the throat with a vice-like grip before effortlessly ragdolling her into the corner.

Dick Morosi: Lexy is trying to hit and run Seth, but Jerry is having none of it. It’s was wise on her part but-

Seth Ericson: She’s going to have to get her hands dirty if she wants want to do the impossible. And I don’t think that she can. She’s two weeks removed from being destroyed by the Reverend. I doubt she’s healed from those wounds.

Jerry ties her up in the corner, prompting the Chris Dawson to step in to get a break. However, G&M’s Reverend does not give the clean break, as he repeatedly slaps young Chapel in the head before backing away. Matthews grin mischievously as his inexperienced opponent merely looks on, somewhat flustered and concerned. She takes the time to compose herself, her confidence trembling as the beloved social media starlet realizes that Jerry’s raw, animalistic power is going to be a handful to overcome. With Lexy emerging from the corner the action picks back up, seemingly restarting the bout as the two begin circling the ring once again. Cautiously stepping forward, Jerry’s nearest arm protrudes, prompting Lexy to do the same. Just when it seemed like they would become embroiled in a traditional tie-up, the challenger takes advantage, showing her cunning as she plunges her boot into the champ’s gut causing him to double over. Seizing the opportunity, Lexy immediately slaps on a headlock, encircling the Southern’s head and locking it between her body and the crook of her elbow. She applies tremendous pressure, trying her hardest to bring the giant down to her height level. With ease Jerry leans into the ropes and uses the elasticity of the cables to build momentum and toss the challenger forward.

Instead of charging for the ropes Lexy rolls forward, then springs back to her feet. Jerry immediately approaches her, only to have a foot fired at his solar plexus - which he captures with cupped hands. Chapel hops on one leg in fear as Matthews flashes a vindictive smirk, knowing he now has the young upstart right where he wants her. He pulls back on the leg, causing the Featherweight to lose her footing; Chapel lands in a split on the canvas, and more importantly, a defenseless position. The first thing that comes to Jerry’s mind is for him to smash in her head like a game of whack-a-mole, and he intends to do just that as he swings his boot forward. Amazingly enough, Lexy ducks, inducing a swing and miss and the loss of balance and equilibrium that follows. Behind the Southerner now, she quickly springs back to a vertical base before pulling him down with a School Girl roll up for the pin.

”ONE!”

“TWO!”

Seth Ericson: Kick out! She almost stole one there. Twitter would have surely erupted, Dick!

Indeed, just before three the International Champion manages to roll free, avoiding what would have been a very mortifying upset.

Dick Morosi: And right now we’re seeing Chapel’s elusiveness and speed cause Jerry fits. She can counteract Matthews’ size and strength with her agility and quickness. That girl is a pest for G&M’s Broadsword right now.

Both competitors quickly scramble to their feet with the young and flexible Lexy beating her foe to the punch. It pays dividends as it creates a window of opportunity for Chapel to capitalize. And just does just that, leaping into the air to jut her legs out with a Dropkick - planting her boots into Matthew’s chest to send him to the canvas. OUt of desperation, the champion rolls under the bottom rope and onto the apron, looking to regroup and stifle the acrobat’s momentum. The daredevil denies his hope of creating distance between them, as the sleek and nimble challenger leaps onto the adjacent ring ropes with cat-like balance, then gracefully leaps back to thrust her legs out and blast Matthews in the cranium. The champion unceremoniously leaves the apron as the Springboard Dropkick sends him crashing to the floor below. The EXODUS faithful suddenly burst into a paroxysm of cheers as the rally behind their beloved Lexy Chapel who seems to be in complete control of the contest. She nods repeatedly, feeding off of their energy; her confidence is fully restored.

Exiting onto the apron, Chapel surveys the situation before scouting her nemesis, waiting for the right opportunity to strike. With noise ringing and resounding through his head mirroring those of the church bells he had become accustomed to through most of his life, the befuddled the champion staggers to his feet. He is completely oblivious and unaware of the fact that Lexy is lying in wait, coiled and ready to take flight. As he turns, she leaps off the apron, aspiring to continue her aerial onslaught. Matthews, however, was just playing possum, pretending to be more injured than he was as he intercepts the Flying brit. In one fluid motion, Jerry swings the shoulder straddling Chapel downward, viciously, heartlessly, and emphatically slamming her into the lightly padded floor. Following the impressive counter, a ravaging Sitout Powerbomb, the champion slowly climbs to his feet, hoisting his arms up pridefully to further diminish the spirits of the now dejected crowd - a crowd that watches their hero convulse on the floor in obvious pain.

Dick Morosi: HE CAUGHT HER!

Seth Ericson: POWERBOMB RIGHT ON THE FLOOR! Damn! That Matthews is the real deal, Dick!

Dick Morosi: And Lexy is in real trouble. She took an early risk, and it didn’t pay off. It might be academic at this point. That was a devastating counter.

Seth Erickson: If you caught that, make sure to screenshot it and tag me in the posts folks, at ‘SethTheDammed’. And let’s get #ChapelKiller trending because the champion did just THAT just NOW!

Oozing with confidence, Matthews leans down to hook Chapel’s legs in his arms before lifting the challenger off the floor. With one giant swing, Jerry catapults the undefeated aerialist through the air, sending her frail body crashing violently into the guardrail. The fans in the front row recoil as the rail draws back a few feet in response to the collision. Oozing with confidence, Matthews saunters pretentiously toward his downed foe, taking in a measure of satisfaction as we watches Lexy writhe in agony. He seizes a handful of her beautiful hair, Jerry jerks her to a stand before dragging her toward the ring. Clubbing the enervated Brit over her weakened back, the Reverend looks to further soften up his antagonist, making it clear that his new strategy is to break her in half. Gritting his teeth, the Southerner tosses Lexy back inside the squared circle before kneeing up onto the apron. As he climbs to his feet and begins to step through the ropes, Chapel shows signs of life and scrambles to her feet before swinging her leg across her body; she awakens the crowd as she cracks the Alabaman in the cranium with a sickening kick. Jerry’s ears are left ringing, as the effects of the kick reverberate through his now dented skull, the champion now falling to the canvas.

With Matthews dazed and groggy, Lexy makes her way to the corner, taking a moment to catch her breath and convalesce before ascending the top turnbuckle. Without a moment’s hesitation, the free spirited high flyer takes to the skies, exhibiting the aerial dexterity that has made her into one of EXODUS fastest rising stars. She soars through the electric atmosphere, launching straight at the vulnerable Alabaman. While in mid air she applies a front facelock, but as the Brit attempts to swing downward to execute the Tornado DDT, Jerry blocks the maneuver by capturing her in a waistlock. With Lexy in a perilous position, the International Champion grabs a handful of Chapel’s red-hot pants before lifting her upside down. He holds her at the peak of the arc for a brief delay, showing off his unimaginable strength before falling backward to cause both of them to pancake to the canvas.

Seth Ericson: WOAH! Matthews counters again! He’s got circus strongman like strength! The Reverend is a freak of freaking nature.

Dick Morosi: There’s no doubt about it. The champion has stepped his game up tonight. That Vertical Suplex is clear cut proof that he isn’t taking her lightly.

Seth Ericson: He’s having his way with her. Nate is somewhere in that wheelchair jealous. I can guarantee he’s never gave it to her like THIS before.

Dick Morosi: I won’t even touch that one.

Lexy’s body shrivels from the violent impact of body and canvas. The champion slowly rolls toward her and hooks her legs for the cover. Chris Dawson immediately drops down into position to make the count.

”ONE!”

“TWO!

In spite of having scored with such a devastating maneuver, a move that was efficacious in increasing the strain on his foe’s injured back, the tenacious Bit manages to roll a shoulder over. The disconcerted Alabaman exhibits his frustration as he pounds his fists into the canvas, wondering how the hell in the world she was able to come back from something like that. After pondering for a moment, the plan becomes clear to him as the angered behemoth climbs back to his feet, a smug grin now etched on his Southern mug. The Preacherman backs into the corner, crouching down slightly as he stalks his wounded prey, almost salivating at the mouth at the prospect of putting the first blemish on her EXODUS record - and more importantly, sending a resounding message to the Seikigun that he had returned to form and would be a force to be reckoned with. As Chapel begins to rise, Matthews makes a beeline for her, lifting his leg up with aspirations of taking her head clean off her dainty shoulders. The winds of change however blow through the arena, as the challenger has enough wherewithal to circumvent the Big Boot, deftly sidestepping before dashing to the ropes. She bounces off and leaps at the turning Mathews - he catches her, pulling her up with a Wheelbarrow, only for Lexy to pull him down with a Bulldog driving him face first into the canvas.

Realizing she has turned this match on its head, Lexy doesn’t squander the opportunity as she slowly rolls under the bottom rope and uses the ropes to pull herself up to a stand. After a brief moment to recuperate, the challenger quickly springs onto the top cable before exploiting the ropes’ flexibility to springboard herself into the air., Having been propelled into the atmosphere, she simply plummets down with an outstretched leg, dropping her entire one hundred and fourteen pound frame across the champion’s trachea. The costar of the Chapel Show stares gleefully at her foe’s lifeless body, finding new found energy coursing through her veins. Not giving away any time to savour the moment she hurries to cover him, hooking the near seven footer’s leg.
”ONE!”

“TWO!”

Dick Morosi: He kicked out! I thought she had him. Dammit!

Seth Ericson: She hit a homerun with that Springboard Leg Drop, but she couldn’t get the pinfall. That was an incredible offensive explosion, but it wasn’t enough to close out the ballgame.

With a faceful of disbelief, Lexy turns to referee Chris Dawson who holds two fingers up to plead his case. After the realization of her recent failure sets in, the frustrated challenger slowly climbs up to her feet, simultaneously dragging the champion to his. With her foe doubled over, Lexy lays into him with forearm- after forearm - after forearm, further enervating the Alabaman who is sent staggering into the turnbuckles. With Jerry seemingly begging to be put out of his misery, Lexy backs into the center of the ring; slowly contriving her next plan of attack. Having reached an exciting conclusion, Chapel scurries to the corner. Her misplaced judgement doesn’t go without repercussions, as Jerry juts his leg out to blast her in the face. Haven’t sent the pugnacious showman reeling, the champion bursts out of the corner, swinging his arm with malignance as he looks to regain control of the match. Lexy speed once again proves to be the difference, as she once again baffles the champion with a quick, blinding evasion before suddenly ascending the turnbuckles - however before she can take flight Jerry halts her progression, diving forward with a clubbing blow to her impaired spinal region.

The two jockey for position now atop the turnbuckle, as Jerry attempts to lift the Featherweight into the air, while the challenger desperately tries anything she can think of to prevent him from doing. She succeeds, as she stuns the Reverend with a series of elbows that send him to the canvas. Having avoiding catastrophe for the time being, Chapel changes her position, beginning to turn around to face the ring and her opponent., Rising in defiance, the persistent International Champion displays a sudden jolt of adrenaline, as he quickly climbs up the top turnbuckle, once again joining his bitter nemesis., With haste, Matthews quickly wraps his tree trunk arms around her small torso, capturing the Brit in a waistlock which she is incapable of escaping from. The behemoth the falls backward, tossing his foe overhead; the two competitors come crashing down to the canvas with a resounding thud, sending the crowd into a tumultuous frenzy of whistles, cheers and screams. With every ounce of strength he can muster, Jerry crawls just enough to lunge onto his small foe. Totally sure in his mind that he has done all he needs to do, the Alabaman bypasses hooking the leg, and simply rests on Lexy Chapel to perform a pinfall.

Dick Morosi: GOOD GOD! Belly to Belly Suplex from the top rope!

”ONE!”

Seth Ericson: Jerry is pulling out all the stops here, Dick. Lexy was trying to go for another one of her high risk maneuvers, but Matthews wouldn’t give her the chance. It’s all over now!

”TWO!”

Lexy convulses her whole body once to halt the pin. Jerry rolls out of her in shock and disbelief, much to the delight of the crowd.

Dick Morosi: Chapel kicks out again! Both competitors have endured an incredible amount of punishment, and in Lexy’s case, more than anyone thought she could. They’ve both dealt an equal amount of damage, and have scored with big moves and… Seth what they hell are you doing?

Seth Ericson: Are you kidding me, Dick? Tweeting. Facebooking. Instagramming. Myspacing. Blackplaneting! This match is a classic and I want to be at the epicenter when this breaks social media.

As referee Chris Dawson begins his ten count both superstars attempt to get to their feet, meanwhile the crowd continues to voice their approval for what has been a stellar contest.

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

Hearing the vociferous chants of the EXODUS lifeblood, Matthews and Chapel slowly begin to stir. Chapel retreats into a corner, before slumping into a seated position, her injured back resting on the turnbuckles. She knows she’s got to find a way to end the match quickly, as she doubts that her back will hold up much longer. Meanwhile, Matthews rolls to his side, clutching the ropes to try and return to vertical base; he spits a wad of saliva onto the ground, and you can tell from the sluggish manner by which he did it that he’s been heavily weakened and fatigued. Nevertheless, he is ready to fight on to preserve Furor’s NEW AGE and retain his International Championship. Lext meets him in the center of the ring and connects with a leaping forearm, drawing a huge cheer from the fans. Matthews’ head falls back, and he turns to the side. After a moment to catch himself, he answers with a swift kick to the chrome dome that nearly takes Chapel off her feet. The Alabaman’s reply is received poorly by the crowd, who send their boos and negativity in the Southern Reverend’s direction. The two combatants go through the motions of fist-kick fight, knowing the victory of this struggle may be the one to leave with the spoils of war.

All it takes is one missed kick and Matthews is left vulnerable. Lexy notices the champion’s off balanced position, and immediately lays into him with a leaping Enziguri, a faint crack can be heard in response. Jerry staggers into the ropes, leaving himself open to further abuse. Chapel suddenly makes a beeline for the far ropes, yet she is unaware that Matthews is charging behind her. Due her incognizance she bounces off the cables, only to turn and realize that the Reverend is no where to be found. That’s because he’s rebounding off the cables himself, and only when the Featherweight turn back around does she experience the sight of the champion’s outstretched arm come crashing across her collarbone and voicebox, instantly sweeping her weight off her own feet and sending her vaulting to the canvas with a STIFF clothesline.

Seth Ericson: He just turned her inside -freakin- out! That was brilliant, freaking brilliant on Matthews’ part. By the time she realized what was going on, she was already getting guillotined!

Dick Morosi: Lexy was looking to build up a head of steam, but the Reverend never even her a breath.

Matthews wastes no time in vying for a pinfall, flopping to his adversaries limp form to hook her legs for the pin.

”ONE!”

“TWO!”

Chapel defies the laws of human body and pain tolerance as she bucks out of the pinfall much to the delight of EXODUS crowd, and much to the horror of the Alabaman. Matthews rolls to his back, staring up at the ceiling with his mouth agape. He frantically wonders what needs to be done, what he has to do to seal the deal. The champion gets up to a stand and pulls Lexy to her feet, clubbing her in the neck and head repeatedly at the exact moment the Brit tries to wriggle free. Having put an end to her resistance and a stopper to her hopes of freedom he steps behind her and lifts her up onto the padded turnbuckle. The Alabaman climbs up to his foe’s level, levelling her with three left handed fists to the skull. Jerry throws Lexy’s left arm over his neck, before locking his own arm around her abdominal region. He attempts to lift her up but to no avail - Chapel just won’t quit, won’t give him the satisfaction. He tries again, but once more she refuses to budge, knowing another fall from this height will be the end of her night. Chapel finally comes to, letting Matthews know only by punching him in his face which forces him to let her go. She finishes the job with a couple back elbows, letting him fall slowly and helplessly to the mat below. Chapel sits still for a moment, still somewhat in a lull and daze. The sound of the arena rallying behind her brings the starlet back to reality, and prompts her to climb to her feet. Suddenly, she leaps into the air, performing a 180° turn in mid-air.

Dick Morosi: Here it comes…

Having either scouted the move or reacting on instinct alone, Jerry rolls out of harms way. However, instead of crashing and burning upon her completion of the 450° rotation, she lands on her feet. The momentum causes Lexy to roll across the ring where she springs to her feet and dashes for the ropes. With the Brit on the rebound, Matthews lifts up off all fours and climbs to his feet, and immediately uses his challenger’s momentum against her. He catches her with an arm around the torso, then lifts her up before swinging her down, violently throwing her into the canvas with a Scrapbuster.

Seth Ericson: HAMMER OF GOD! He caught her! That’s gotta be it!

DIck Morosi: Matthews has had an answer for everything Chapel’s thrown at him. Every time she seems to have this match in the books, he writes another chapter.

Matthews simply lies in the position he is in, only having to wait a moment longer for the referee to begin counting.

”ONE!”

“TWO!”

“THR”- FOOT ON THE ROPE!

Dawson turns to see Chapel’s foot indeed under the bottom rope, then stops the count and points at that very foot. A nearly unanimous cheer is heard from the crowd as the delivery of the Sideslam knees up and glares at Chris Dawson. Appearing to have snapped now, Matthews grabs a handful of the Brits hair; Chapel’s face becomes subject to a series of swift punches from the champion. The referee orders Jerry to stop the strikes and then begins to count while the relentless abuse continues. One, two, three, four… Matthews ceases his strikes, now climbing back to his feet. Looking down at his stirring foe, the Reverend oustretches his arms in the G&M crucifix pose.

Seth Ericson: He’s gonna try and end it here!

The groggy challenger slowly gets to her feet while Matthews patiently waits. Once Lexy is standing, Matthews doubles her over with a swift toe kick to the midsection, then slaps on a front facelock upon throwing one of her limp arms over his broad shoulder. Gripping the brim of her tights, he scoops her up into a Vertical Suplex. Knowing what the heavyweight’s intentions are, Chapel rains down a series of kicks with her free leg in desperation; her counter forces the behemoth to drop her down. Thinking quickly on her feet, Lexy dashes for the ropes, leaps on the second, then comes back with a Springboard Roundhouse Kick, firmly planting her boot in the face of the International Champion.

Dick Morosi: DENTAL CHECK!

Seth Ericson: Listen to this crowd Dick. They knows what’s coming next.

Indeed, as Lexy has already scales the rope. Without a moments hesitation she leaps off with the imploding 450 Splash, crashing across the Reverend’s lifeless carcass to a chorus of cheers and praise. Chapel hooks the leg, Dawson makes the count, and the crowd chants along.

”ONE!”

“TWO!”

“THREE!”

WINNER (and NEW International Champion): LEXY CHAPEL

As Chapel continues to celebrate, walking up the ramp as she holds the title, sobbing to herself as the crowd continues to cheer and call for her, her music is suddenly cut off by something familiar.



"Last Man Standing" by People In Planes continues to play, and Lexy turns around to see none other than Jonathan Collins there, the NEW International Title on his shoulder. Approaching her, she can see he already has a microphone, and he smiles at the young girl, a hand placed on her shoulder. Jonathan continues to nod as the music dies down, a "SAINT OF VIO-LENCE!" chant starting as he motions for them to simmer down.

Jonathan Collins: Please...you should be chanting for her.

The crowd gets louder with a "LEX-Y CHAP-EL!" chant for her, Jonathan raising his hands, motioning for them to give her the ovation he feels she deserves.

Jonathan Collins: Lexy, ten years ago, I fought my heart out for this title against names like Trevor Wrath, Pete Ebdon, Adam Cameron, Andrew Ashton, and countless others. No wrestler in NEW history had this title as many times as I did, had this title as long as I did, and no wrestler could put themselves in the same air as I could with this belt and no wrestler could do what I did...

He stops and he pauses, handing the title to her...his personal NEW International Title.

Jonathan Collins: ...until tonight. Lexy, you embody the spirit of New Era Wrestling. You are one of the leaders of the next generation of this industry with the students of (R)Evolution Wrestling, my wife Fiona, Blake Jones, Tiffani Stearns, AND EVERYONE WHO PUTS THEIR HEART OUT FOR EXODUS PRO! You are not a Seikigun member, but I would ask you any day of the week to fight along side me! Lexy Chapel, tonight, I ask you...take this title and do the one thing nobody else could.

He smiles, patting both titles, now wrapped over her shoulders.

Jonathan Collins: Make this title mean something one more time.

"Last Man Standing" starts again and he smiles, holding his hand out to Chapel, who shakes it, Collins starting to hold her hand up in victory as she celebrates, lunging to hug the Director as the crowd continues to cheer and we go backstage.