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Singles Match
Itsumo Ichi vs. Magnus Gunner

We come back from commercial and Itsumo Ichi stands in the ring, wearing white tights, a sleeveless unitard with hot pink flames and black diamonds. He fights on behalf of Kliff Ulysses, promising that he'll honor his name when fighting his former brother in arms.

David Zinkus: The following match is scheduled for one fall, introducing first, weighing in at 192 pounds, from Tokyo, Japan, ITSUMO ICHI!

Dick Morosi: Welcome back to E-Pro Television 12. We've had another great show, but now it's time for our grudge match of the evening, Magnus Gunner vs Itsumo Ichi.

Seth Ericson: Itsumo Ichi arguably cost Magnus the World Championship back at Desperate Times. Having not been in action in quite some time, I hope Ichi's been busy. An angry, more demented Loaded Pistol will be facing him tonight.

A brief flash of silence passes through the arena as the stage is shined on by red light, the house lights dimming and filling the arena with darkness. The crimson hues float over the entryway and ramp, absorbed by the somewhat blank canvas of the squared circle. Suddenly the tranquil and quiet ambiance in the arena is poisoned by the sound of "The Quiet Place" by In Flames which rumbles onto the P.A. system. The aforementioned arena is quickly filled with boos and waves of hatred filled jeers as the curtains begin to sway ever so slightly; all eyes feast themselves upon the commotion, as the curtains are finally ruffled from their suspension to signal the emergence of the Loaded Pistol. Magnus Gunner walks onto the stage, a frozen glare etched in stone into his grizzled mug as the bell sounds, David Zinkus stands in-ring, drawing the attention of the spectators to introduce the match.

“Spinning further deeper
I know you're out to try me
I'm not in this to be a slave
I push the dirt
Make me feel
Locate what swallows life
Night bird you build my world”

"..and then I close my eyes
..and then I close my eyes"

David Zinkus: And his opponent, making his way to the ring, standing at six feet-four inches tall and weighing at two-hundred and forty pounds... he is the Loaded Pistol.... MAGNUS GUNNER!

The Michigander spreads his arms in a crucifix once his saunter stops at the top of the ramp, his leather jacket casting a silhouette over his upper body, "FEAR" spray painted across his chest. A steel chair hangs loosely in his right hand as his hair dangles in waves of jet black.

Judge me now
Used to be afraid to let it show, bow down
A king in my own mind
Everything's in place so much brighter from today

Gunner surveys the audience, lowering the chair to his side as he continues down the ramp with a slow, methodical, fatigued-appearing amble, with his shoulders relaxed and arms dangling loosely, his weight shifting from foot to foot which causes him to somewhat sway - idiosyncrasies that go unmatched yet unnoticed by the untrained eye. The pupils of the Loaded Pistol tempt to look out to his side as he continues his march, but they have become trained to look forward. Staring in front of him whilst "The Quiet Place" continues to sound throughout the venue.

"Drown the monster
Make all bad dreams go away
Whatever it takes to keep your hands free
Open scars, the quiet place
All the bridges fall to the ground and you say you sacrificed"

"..and then I close my eyes
..and then I close my eyes"

Magnus pulls himself up onto the apron, sliding his chair into the ring as he steps between the middle and top ropes. Once he enters, he gives the action of "cutting it out" as a thumb crosses his throat, queuing the conclusion of his entrance music. He strips his jacket and tosses it aside, before stretching his hand out toward Zinkus, calling for the mic. He obliges, as the Loaded Pistol prepares to declare his brand of knowledge, Itsumo Ichi merely staring straight at him, proving to be un-intimidated by his nemesis.

Gunner: Here I stand, and you all saw what occurred two weeks ago, but I don't find it necessary for me to re-evaluate your thoughts or opinions on the events that have transpired because, first, and foremost, majority of you will never forget it, and secondly, your understanding of these matters is of no consequence. All I care about are these masks that I see, walking and lurking around this arena... all I care about is the mask of Itsumo Ichi who claims his treachery and betrayal was on behalf of one Kliff Ulysses... the man I KILLED at Invincible. Ichi, you are a brilliant liar, and the price of deceit is death Ichi... just like the rest of the belligerents and vagabonds I have vanquished with my miracle working hands.

Magnus grabs his steel chair off the canvas, pointing his steel equalizer at his adversary, Ichi merely balls his fists and squints his eyes, demonstrating his focus and unyielding resolve.

Gunner: So to you Itsumo Ichi, remember one thing, when you lose your mental whereabouts and my fury wraps around your neck like great chains and constricts your throat, you will NEVER have the ability to lie... to dream again. No, you can't DREAM Ichi... but you will experience your NIGHTMARE... you will have seen the MASK OF RED DEATH... you will have seen 10,000 COLD NIGHTS... JUUCHI YOSAMU!

Having heard enough, Ichi quickly makes a bee-line for the grandiloquent madman, tackling him to the canvas with a Spear as Gunner's steel chair and microphone fly out of his hands. As the bell sounds thrice Itsumo begins raining down fist after fist after fist, the LEGION's madman from Michigan barely able get his guard up to protect himself, but only upon a few of Ichi's unballed fists get through. Using his size advantage, the Loaded Pistol manages to toss Ichi off of him, giving himself a window of opportunity to retreat to the corner. However, before he can pull himself up Itsumo is back on top of him, this times with stomps that meet their target with impeccable precision, each boot landing straight in the heart of the heartless sociopath as the RIMAC explodes. Dan Arnouil quickly steps in, pulling a fiery Ichi off his nemesis and sending him backpedaling into the center of the ring triumphantly.

Dick Morosi: Ichi is firing on all cylinders. I've never seen someone take it to Magnus Gunner like this before. What an inspired performance.

As a stunned Gunner slowly rises in the corner, Ichi wastes no time in going back on the offensive as he comes charging in with reckless abandon. Snapping his head back to remove the hair strands that block his sight, the Loaded Pistol stares down the incoming freight chain, before circumventing the incoming collision. Unable to stop himself in time, Itsumo Ichi impedes the turnbuckle padding chest first, and out of necessity to recuperate from having the wind knocked out of him, spins around in the corner. With a breath of new life flowing in him, the Michigander immediately steps forward, elevating his right boot and smashing it into Ichi's face, the impact of the Yakuza Kick reverberating through the RIMAC as the receiver of the debilitating attack slumps down to the canvas.

Seth Ericson: Good Lord! What a kick!

Now in complete control, Gunner pulls Ichi to his feet, before quickly laying into him with a thunderous European Uppercut, followed by a second, a third and a chin splitting fourth that rattles the Japanese supertars cranium. Backing up into the center of the ring, Gunner drags Ichi by his wrist and swiftly steps under the aforementioned captured limb, before reeling Itsumo in and acquainting him with a raised elbow that thrashes against the side of his head. With his knees buckling, Ichi slowly doubles over, prompting the callous Michigander to plot his next move. The belligerent brawler steps back a few feet before charging in with a raised knee that collides with Ichi's cranium, the Knee Trembler nearly smashing said skull into pieces as the deliverer of the sickening blow watches in awe while his adversary stumbles into the ropes. Either instinctively or out of desperation, Ichi rebounds off the ropes and dives at the Loaded Pistol's feet, overcoming his disoriented state of mind to pull him down into a School Boy pin.

"ONE"
"TWO"

Gunner manages to roll out before Anouil's hand hits the mat for a third time, avoiding what would have been a mortifying defeat and quite possibly the biggest upset in EXODUS history. Climbing back to their feet, Ichi beats Magnus in the foot race and quickly dives forward and overtop of the bent Michigander, bringing him down with a Sunset Flip Pin. With Magnus' shoulder pinned down, Ichi holds on for dear life.

"ONE"
"TWO"

Rolling back, Gunner escapes the jaws of defeat once again. Beaten in the foot race for the second consecutive time, Gunner is met with an incoming Clothesline as Ichi swings wildly and with nothing held back. Despite having been reeling for the last few moments, Gunner possesses enough composure and wits to duck. As he returns to an upright position he reaches behind to grapple Itsumo by the head in an Inverted Headlock. Having captured his prey the sadistic Loaded Pistol waits for a brief moment, and in that moment time seems to cease as Ichi's fate hangs in the balance. Finally, with the suddenness of a lightning strike, Maguns pivots and spins inward, turning to Ichi and immediately blasting him in the back of his head with a blistering, withering Elbow Smash. "The Brain Aneurysm" renders Ichi enervated as he is helplessly reduced to a knee, his head hanging awkwardly to the side as a result of having it beaten like a pinata.

Seth Ericson: And that may be the Killshot there! What an Elbow Smash Dick. He literally put a hole in Ichi's head. This one might be over!

WIth his foe completely out of it, Gunner smiles mischievously as he outstretches his arms in the LEGION crucifix. With the crowd booing his posturing, Magnus leans over and grabs a hold of Ichi's arm, proceeding to bend it backwards overhead whilst locking it's wrist into his armpit. The Loaded Pistol wraps his free arm underneath Itsumo's chin, sliding his other arm through the arch created by Ichi's captured arm before finally locking his hands to complete the Arm Hook Sleeper. Constricting and squeezing the Japanese star's neck with his arm, Gunner locks in his submission fully, and upon a few moments of refusal, Ichi is forced to submit to the searing pain and discomfort.

Dick Morosi: And it's over. Itsumo Ichi put up a valiant effort, but Lithium, or as he called it earlier, the Juuchi Yosamu spelled his doom tonight as Magnus Gunner chokes him out for the victory.

"DING! DING! DING!"

As Dan Arnouil tries to raise the victor's arm, Magnus violently shoves him to the canvas, before charging to the corner and grabbing his steel chair. With venom pumping through his veins the malevolent Michigander mounts a supine Ichi and presses the top of the chair into his throat, viciously and maliciously choking him as he rapid fires off at the mouth.

Gunner: *Breath* You are nothing Ichi! *HEAVE* You are absolutely nothing Ichi! *HEAVE* Stare into the eyes of GOD ICHI! *HEAVE* LOOK INTO MY EYES.... LOOK INTO THE EYES OF THE LORD OF THE FLIES... LOOK INTO MY EYES AND SEE YOUR END! *HEAVE* YOU WILL NEVER KILL THE LEGION! WE ARE EVERYWHERE! WE ARE MANY... *HEAVE* I AM LEGION! I AM THE KING OF OLYMPUS! *HEAVE* KNEEL BEFORE GOD!*

Hyperventilating, and appearing to have snapped, the Loaded Pistol climbs to a stand before repeatedly driving the chair into Ichi's solar plexus to continue his vicious assault.

Dick Morosi: Gunner's losing it again. Somebody needs to get out here. He'll kill Ichi!

Seth Ericson: And who in there right mind is going out there, not when that psycho is wielding taht steel chair. We're watching a live execution!

The frantic breathing suddenly ceases, Gunner's breaths no longer distressed and strained, now calm and normal. His sweat filled brow is wiped as the exasperated expression on his face vanishes, being replaced with a blank, detached look. Dropped his steel chair beside Ichi's lifeless carcass, the Loaded Pistol leans over, slowly lifting the dead-weight to a vertical base, slowly sliding Itsumo's head inside his armpit with a front facelock, perhaps preparing for The Butterfly Effect, and what would indeed be the end of Itsumo Ichi as we know him. As the crowd grows silent with apprehension at what seems destined to transpire, Magnus Gunner throws Itsumo's arm over his shoulder, his face remaining vacant yet inside he jumps with jubilation at the prospect of carrying out his twisted brand of justice.

That is until "The Man Comes Around" by "Johnny Cash" hits the P.A. system, grabbing the attention of the audience and more importantly, the attention of the Loaded Pistol who tosses Ichi aside. The expression of vacancy is now filled with bewilderment and fear as Gunner frantically paces around the ring, looking over his shoulder and anywhere his vision carries him as if he's expecting someone to emerge.

"And I heard as it were the noise of thunder
One of the four beasts saying come and see and I saw
And behold a white horse..."

Magnus looks every direction. In his moment of distraction Ichi slinks limp out of the ring. The arena is somber, and anxious as all look around to try and be the first witness as the music plays on.

There's a man going around taking names
And he decides who to free and who to blame
Everybody won't be treated quite the same
There will be a golden ladder reaching down
When the man comes around.

The crowd begins to shudder and shriek as out from under the ring emerges a figure. Placed squarely behind Magnus as he takes Ichi's place in the ring, standing tall.

Dick Morosi: Is that...? It's WEAPON?!

Seth Ericson: Jon Collins hung those laces up! What in God's green earth is this guy doing out here?!

Instinctively, Magnus swings around. Fist raised ready to find his lost ghost brother. But caught off guard when he finds a different man in the place of who he expected. And as soon as he hesitated, the WEAPON acted. Just like the guardian he is, he was watching over Itsumo Ichi, and watching over EXODUS. Unable to protect himself in time, Gunner watches as WEAPON flies in, delivering a jaw jacking forearm. The balance had been restored to the Universe as the audience exploded with cheers, their exuberance influenced WEAPON to continue his assault. Gunner tries to fight back, swinging in with a few hard, flailing rights but WEAPON continues his vicious assault with his right elbow before delivering a knife edged chop that cracked through the auditorium like thunder and left the entire crowd wooing.

In vain, Gunner fought as the fresh WEAPON delivered another chop.

WOOOOOOOO!

And another.

WOOOOOOOO!

And one final, blistering chop that he threaded seamlessly into a swinging elbow strike to the head. Dazing the Loaded Gunner. He stumbles back, but the heavily armed WEAPON pulls him by his hand inward, hoisting him onto his shoulders into a fireman's carry. The crowd is elated as WEAPON stands tall for a moment, soaking it in before torquing his body forward, and throwing Magnus back in a whirling spin that left him caught in a devastating cutter.

Seth Ericson: What was that?! WEAPON took a totally different approach than his usual game!

Dick Morosi: That looked like a TKO, Seth. And you're right. WEAPON went at Gunner a whole different way he could never have been ready for!

The crowd bursts into a cheer as Magnus was left reeling in the ring. Ichi marches his tired way over to the announcer, snatching a microphone away from him and collecting his breath as he eyes down the way to Gunner.

Ichi: You see Gunner... do you see... see how while the LEGION may be many... they are not ENOUGH... not to stop what is coming their way... coming to finish them off once and for all. And you were wrong Magnus... YOU WERE WRONG... Wrong to say I was nothing... I am far from NOTHING... I am the MESSENGER... and tonight the first message was delivered and you received it... and that message was simple...

The Loaded Pistol having climbed back to his feet retreats over the guardrail, his eyes darting from WEAPON who stands triumphant in the ring, and back to Ichi who continues to deliver the verbal beating of a lifetime.

Ichi: RUN... LIKE... HELL Magnus... RUN LIKE HELL... for a storm is coming... a storm that will wash you, Daisuke Iwakuma and the rest of LEGION from the face of EXOUDUS.

A look of disbelief rests on the face of the Loaded Pistol as he navigates through the crowd, fleeing the scene as Ichi's warnings continue, as the crowd begins to join in.

Ichi: RUN LIKE HELL MAGNUS.... RUN LIKE HELL... RUN LIKE HELL!

RUN LIKE HELL!

RUN LIKE HELL!

RUN LIKE HELL!

The crowd continues to chant it while Gunner looks around, almost freaked out.

WINNER: Magnus Gunner

Dick Morosi: This crowd has Magnus Gunner absolutely spooked!

Seth Ericson: Enough about them, what the hell is another WEAPON doing here?! I thought we were done with those?

Dick Morosi: I wish I had answers, but for now, let's go backstage!

The camera cuts backstage to where Tom Matheny is hurrying up to catch up with Blake Jones.

Tom Matheny: Blake! Blake!

Blake turns his head and sees that Tom Matheny is hurrying towards him. Once he reaches Blake, he stops, mic in hand and a certain redness in the face from the run he had just made. Tom puts his hand on Blake's shoulder.

Tom Matheny: Is there...anyway I can get a quick word about what you think of what Daisuke had to say earlier tonight?

Blake just smirks and shakes his head as the mic is brought up close to him. He takes a quick breath before speaking into the mic.

Blake Jones: If Daisuke makes it out of here tonight, he'll be in a real bind at the next pay-per-view because I accept! I'll see you in a few, when I'm kicking your ass.

Blake pushes the mic out of the way and goes on his way as Tom thanks him. The scene falls onto Zack Lifer and Zero McHannon sitting comfortably backstage. Zero was fooling around with a camera, like once before, and still couldn’t figure out how to turn it on.

Zero McHannon: I’m not a damn cameraman! I never know how to turn this piece of trash on. You think it would be simple... Red light goes on and it should work. Damn red light is on, but does it work? No.

Zack let out a loud laugh at Zero’s expense, a smile on his face as he sat in the background.

Zack Lifer: Did you press the on button?

Zero looks over to Lifer with a blank expression.

Zero McHannon: Yes, I tried pressing the on button.

He then looks down to noticed that the camera wasn’t plugged in, or been charged up. At first, Zero felt like hurling it against the wall. After a few deep breathes, he calmed himself down and plugging it in. He turned back to Lifer, shaking his head as they let the camera start up.

Zero McHannon: Well (CENSORED)...

Zack let out another laugh, rolling his eyes.

Zack Lifer: You always forget to plug it in, don’t you? Like that time you tried to plug in the 360.

Zero McHannon: Mannnn! That was different! I didn’t even know Beeno was borrowing my XBox. I thought the damn thing was broken. Anyway... Lets get down to business, bro.

Zack nodded, pointing to the chair next to him that sat in front of the white wall of the backstage hallway. He watched as Zero hit the record button, and sat down beside him before he started to speak once again.

Zack Lifer: So, it has come to my attention that this next match of ours against Heather and Adrien is already in the bag. Isn’t that right, man?

Zero McHannon: When it comes to Heather and Adrien, they can’t beat us. Not even if they team up together would they get the job done. That speaks volumes on not only how strong me and Lifer are on our own, but together. Beating the number one contender and her lapdog? Taking the World Champion and the International Champion to every limit they had? When you talk about that, you make sure you talk about the White Nights! Don’t stumble on your words anymore...

Zack began to clap, a cheesy grin on his face as he looked into the camera.

Zack Lifer: Now that deserves an applause.

He stops his clapping, glancing at Zero again.

Zero McHannon: The funny thing is, this is all they think we are made of. Lifer, they honestly think this is us at our best! (CENSORED), we haven’t even got started on how great we can really be.

Zack Lifer: You got that right. EXODUS Pro? The crowd in this arena? The people watching at home? Change is coming, a new beginning in this company thanks to yours truly and my friend over here. The White Nights are here to change things for the better, and yet Jonathan Collins takes offense of the LEGION trying to do the right thing? Doesn’t make any sense whatsoever, does it?

Zero begins to shake his head, where his face became more serious. There was a lot of hatred in his heart growing for Jonathan and the direction he was taking things.

Zero McHannon: Let me ask you this, EXODUS. Have we ever lied to you like Collins? Have we... manipulated you? Cheated? No, but the man you all love and praise so much has. Collins has done it right to your face. Made you all look like idiots. Slapped you and spit in your face like you all are beneath him!

Zack Lifer: And that’s not all. To put fear in the hearts of the heroes of this business, the LEGION, they decide to use WEAPONS. Yep, you heard right. The ‘good guys, the Seikigun, are using WEAPONS to fulfill their self-righteous goal. Here at LEGION, we need no WEAPONS, we need no cheap tactics like surrounding the ring as they did. We know our in ring skill and our beliefs are strong enough to win even without being surrounded by big guns filled to the brim with ammo. And yet you cheer them. Makes no sense!

Zack rolls his eyes.

Zack Lifer: By the way, Iwakuma? His nickname is misleading. The Perfect Evil? I don’t see a thing evil about the man. He uses no WEAPONS, he doesn’t hide away in the safety of a coma, he stands up and fights for what he believes and that’s why I am LEGION and you should all be too!

A loud boo is heard from the crowd.

Zack Lifer: Guys like Magnus Gunner and GRENDEL are the guys speaking the truth, and yet you don’t listen. Then listen to us. Fiona and Collins are using you with the threat of WEAPONS pointed at each and every one of your heads!

There was a silence that fell across the room as Zero pointed the camera and began to talk again.

Zero McHannon: I can’t stand people like Fiona, Adrien, Jonathan, Lass. You all are pieces of (CENSORED) that hide behind this glorified persona! Each just as worse as the one standing next to you... Telling each other to sit out of action, so you can get the upperhand. Some of you refuse to tell the world what you really are, hiding behind masks... This make you the cowards. I know deep down some of you believe in what the LEGION is fighting for, but you turn away because you don’t think they can pull it out. You honestly don’t believe it can be done so you run to the other side like the REAL cowards.

Zack Lifer: Or maybe you don’t think you’re good enough to stand side by side with us, the heroes. We’re too good for you in your eyes, maybe? I’m here to tell you that you’re right. But that doesn’t change the fact that you still need to fight for what’s right. After all, look at all the D-List superheroes nobody’s ever heard of! That could be you.

Zero McHannon: They’re all just scared. They care more about how everyone else thinks about them instead of going with their gut feeling. Another form of selfishness... They’re too selfish to put their friends to the side and fight for their own beliefs. They are afraid of what people will think of them, being seen fighting for a righteous reason along the sides of people like Zero McHannon and Zack Lifer.

Zack Lifer: So, tell them how we plan to challenge the two figureheads that lead them all to slaughter like sheep or cows. Tell them how we plan on righting the wrongs and how we plan on making the members of Seikigun? realize the truth.

That sick smile of Zero’s crosses his face as he looks towards the camera. You could see it in his eyes that he was hungry for what he was about to say next. His eyes were filled with insanity, eager to let loose.

Zero McHannon: Last week was a heartbreaker. We had our first chance to possibly sway this war on our side for the first time in a long time. Blake Jones surprised the world, but not really. Lets cut out all the middleman bull(CENSORED), and get to the chase. No more Blake Jones to save your asses, no more extra man on our side... We want Collins and Fiona against me and Lifer. It’s not like we don’t deserve it. Last week, none of us were the influence in the outcome of that match... I want that to be different now. I don’t want ANY excuses on either end when put an end to the over egotistical World Champion and her jackass, coward of a leader. I want Collins, and I want him now.

Zack Lifer: And if you’re smart, you’ll make that match main event potential.

Zero nodded, everything that needed to be said out in the open. Zack Lifer smirked before getting to his feed, bending over to grab the wire plugged into the wall. With a single pull, the cord unplugged and the scene came to an abrupt end.

We come back from commercial and the scene cuts to the ring as “Pick Up The Pieces” by Average White Band starts playing. The fans give a neutral reaction as the FX liason Edward Nair appears on the ramp.

David Zinkus: Everyone, please give a warm welcome to FX liason EDWARD NAIR!!

The middle aged man struts down to the ring as the commentators start giving their confused opinions.

Dick Morosi: This is quite great, to be honest. Since he’s going to be giving staff like us pay raises and a bigger budget.

Seth Ericson: More money for me? Sign me up!

The man rolls into the ring, million dollar smile on his face as he grabs a microphone. The fans continue to stir, not knowing what to expect from a man they know very little about.

Dick Morosi: So you think he will be good for EXODUS? Adrien Cochrane didn’t seem to like him.

Seth Ericson: He’s biased! Even Adrien’s own lackey likes Nair! I think getting Nair was a great idea!

Edward Nair: It has come to my attention that almost every single one of you paying customers are not aware of who I am. And it has also been brought to my attention that some of you might be jumping to conclusions about whether I am good or bad news for EXODUS Pro. So I thought I would come out here to…clear the air, so to speak.

Seth Ericson: See!

Crowd stirs a bit more.

Edward Nair: It’s pretty simple who I am. I was sent to EXODUS Pro to assist them with the transition from small time wrestling promotion to a big, international promotion that it is starting to become. That show in Japan is just the first step of a great plan to expand the horizons of EXODUS Pro! Soon, everyone who pays attention to wrestling will know the names of Fiona Rourke, Ryuji Kamigawa, Heather Halliwell, Zack Lifer, and Steve Lenton! Soon, people in every continent on the planet will be wearing Zero McHannon hats, Adrien Cochrane t-shirts, and jackets with the Turks on them!

The fans give some light cheer.

Dick Morosi: That does sound good.

Seth Ericson: Hell yeah!

Edward Nair: I was sent here because I was the one on the FX payroll that has limited experience with running a wrestling promotion. While I’m not running EXODUS Pro, I will be assisting them in every manner and becoming a part of a very impressive team. With Jonathan Collins at the helm, Darrin Stearns helping him out, and Nicholas Gray fetching us coffee, we can turn this company into one of the greatest companies, one of the most successful companies, and one of the most marketable companies on the planet!

Louder cheers.

Edward Nair: But of course, in order to do that, we’re going to have to make some changes.

Dick Morosi: Changes? Getting scared, Seth?

Seth Ericson: You’ll get fired before I do.

Edward Nair: I’m going to be personally evaluating everyone here, competitor and staff, to insure that they can reform to be at the top of their game and at their marketability peak!

Dick Morosi: Is marketability all this guy cares about?

Seth Ericson: Well, money makes this place go round.

Edward Nair: But never fear, my dears. For this will be all for your benefit. Starting with the first episode on FX, you fans will enjoy pyrotechnics and fireworks with each wrestler’s entrance. We will get be making renovations to the RIMAC Arena to make the experience you fans get more enjoyable and to be able to fit more of you in here. We will be get Seth and Dick here a bigger announce table and better monitors.

Seth Ericson: SWEET!

Edward Nair: We will even make sure we upgrade this big screen above the ramp to show the matches action on premium high definition on a top of the line LED dual screens!

The fans start cheering, loving all of these innovations.

Edward Nair: We will even start touring around the United States and maybe ever further to bring more fans to our product…but do not worry, San Diego will still be our home!

Fans keep cheering. Nair gives his million dollar smile again.

Edward Nair: In closing, do not fear my arrival. Do not fear what me and FX will do for your precious company. We are here to build, not destroy. We are here to give you the best show money can buy!

“Pick Up The Pieces” by Average White Band starts playing again as Edward Nair drops the microphone with his million dollar smile.

Dick Morosi: Wow. Looks like we’re getting some serious upgrades!

Seth Ericson: I know! What do you think he means by evaluations?

Dick Morosi: Best be on your best behavior when it’s your turn.

Seth Ericson: Speaking of behavior, it seems Jerry Matthews is convinced Selena Alexander and Genesis Logan haven't been on their best behavior.

Dick Morosi: And that's why we have this match, and it's next! If Selena loses, she has to undergo a special "rehab" set up by Matthews. Let's go to the ring!

Normal Match
Jerry Matthews (EXODUS Pro San Diego Bay Champion w/ Deacon Jeremiah) vs. Selena Alexander (w/ Genesis Logan)

We go to the ring to find Selena Alexander already in the ring, trading whispers with her lover Genesis Logan and giggling with her despite all that’s on the line tonight. Heavy booing from the crowd begins as Josh Turner's "Long Black Train" begins to play, "The Evangelist" Jerry Matthews strides down the aisle in a suit and tie. In his hand, he carries a Bible and begins his regular sermon as he ventures down to the ring. His spiritual liaison, Deacon Jeremiah, accompanies him to ringside with an offering plate, ready to collect money from any believers in the crowd. As he gets to the ring, he climbs through the ropes and removes his suit. He then raises his Bible in a preacherly manner to the crowd as they boo incessantly. After checking them both, the referee signals for the bell to start the match.

Selena goes to lock up, only for Matthews to grab her by the hair and toss her to the ground. She immediately begins to scramble back so she can safely get back to her feet, but can’t avoid a stomp to the stomach from Matthews. He grabs her arm and drags her to Genesis, pointing down at her and laughing. He then lifts Selena up solely to hit her with a clothesline to take her back down.

He goes to grab her leg again only for her to roll away, grabbing the ropes for leverage as she lifts herself up. They face one another for a moment before Selena makes a grab for Matthews arm, Matthews grabbing her hand in response and trying to whip her into the ropes, but Selena spins and tries to whip him instead, only for Matthews to dig his heels in and stop the attempt. With their hands still gripping one another, Matthews instead jerks her forward into his arms, with him lifting her up and spinebustering her onto the mat.

He kneels down and smacks her head, shouting something in her face before grabbing her head and slamming it down onto the mat. To the crowd’s disgust he repeats this again and again, to the point of the referee beginning a five count, which Matthews quickly lets go of her in response to. Matthews makes a grab for her again, only for Selena to throw a desperate kick at her stomach, a desperate kick that, unseen by the referee’s angle of vision, hits lower than perhaps anticipated...

Dick Morosi: That was a little too close to the choir boys for Matthews to handle.

Seth Ericson: Ooh, I felt that from here!

Dick Morosi: Not sure if that was on purpose or not, but it’s to Selena’s advantage, and she’s taking it! She’s throwing elbows to Matthews’ face while he’s hurt, and backing him into a corner with them!

Seth Ericson: Do it for your girl, Selena! And more importantly do it for all of us who want some HLA on FX in August!

The referee steps in to check on Matthews, getting Selena to step back.

Dick Morosi: Wow, that unfortunate shot below the belt might have done way more damage than we thought.

Seth Ericson: Hey, if the ref says he can’t continue that works just as well as a pin!

Selena looks to her girlfriend for support, only for Deacon Jeremiah to shove Genesis out of the way and splashing the holy water into her face!

Seth Ericson: No!

Dick Morosi: Matthews going past the referee, he’s not hurt at all! It was an act to let Jeremiah use the damned holy water!

Seth Ericson: Matthews has her and...

Dick Morosi: SAVIOR’S WRATH! And the cover...

1...2....3

The crowd erupts into boos as Matthews stands, raising his hands in victory, the Deacon enthusiastically applauding him from ringside.

Seth Ericson: I hate everything right now.

Dick Morosi: I can’t blame you...damned unfair, and now Selena has to serve Matthews.

Seth Ericson: What a load of bull.

WINNER: Jerry Matthews

Dick Morosi: That's got to be a difficult loss for Selena Alexander to ta--

The screen suddenly turns to static, the buzz of the white noise echoing in the viewer’s ears. But from the bland madness of this scene, we fade slowly into something else. Something purely unexpected. Scene fades to a view of a beautiful beach. The crisp clear waves gently splash onto shore, washing some pebbles and seashells onto the pure white sand. There is not a person in sight, only the view of the clear blue sky and the jagged, rocky cliffs in the background. A faint breeze blows through, mixing with the sound of seawater and cries of hungry seagulls. Till one voice strikes up from the distance, quiet at first but gaining volume. It is such a sweet, soothing voice that nobody could have any feelings but utter peace at the combination of the scenery, nature’s music and a soulful voice plucked from the heavens.

“I am coming…”

The scene suddenly switches back to the deafening static, before reverting back to announcer’s booth showing the confused look of the commentary team. Ironically, right behind them is an extremely short man in a sparkling purple wrestling mask holding up a sign reading “In Your Face!”. He looks around, squeaks as he sees security come chasing after him and disappears into the crowd. The announcers just look at each other, shrug and attempt to remain professional and continue.

Dick Morosi: Friend of yours, Seth?

Seth Ericson: I stopped doing that back in 2006, Di--I mean, nope, not a friend of mine. We probably should go backstage before this gets awkward.

We come backstage, and as Blake Jones is starting to prepare for his match, he gets a visit from someone. As the camera cuts over after Blake stands up from stretching, the visitor is of a familiar breed...and it’s Jonathan Collins.

Jonathan Collins: You ready for tonight?

Blake Jones: About as ready as I’ll ever be. Maybe now some people can shut up about me being the “Last Option”.

Jonathan shakes his head and sighs, looking at Blake before placing a hand on his shoulder.

Jonathan Collins: You’re as bad as Fiona, you know that? You both have this crisis of confidence. Listen to me, okay? You have taken your share of lumps, but you’re hardly the last option. You went out there and held your own against LEGION and Andrew Ashton. You have earned the respect of your peers, you have earned the respect of one of your greatest rivals, but more importantly...you can’t be the last option to captain our team if you were my first choice.

Jonathan smiles and reaches over to a chair, holding up Blake’s new entrance jacket.

Jonathan Collins: Nice jacket. Who does your work?

Blake wants to believe Jon, he really does, but something inside of him won’t let him. Maybe this was all about his pride and the fact that he tried so hard to defeat Andrew Ashton. Maybe it was the fact that when asking for backup, Blake has never had anyone come to him. The question Jon asks him at the end makes him smile.

Blake Jones: I couldn’t tell you. It appeared in my mailbox one day. Weird, right?

Jonathan grins, chuckling.

Jonathan Collins: Strange things, happen, Blake. It’s kind of funny. See, when I was in the hospital...

Jon’s eyes look around for a moment, laughing softly to himself.

Jonathan Collins: ...I learned that sometimes you have to look deep within yourself to find what you’re looking for. Blake, I didn’t rally you guys around some comic book symbol because I thought you guys would like it and it would sell shirts. I did it for each and every one of you to look within yourself and find something. Something that would give you all something to believe in. I don’t ask you to believe and put faith in me...I’m asking you to believe in yourself, just like I’ve done with you.

Jonathan turns himself to look Blake in the eyes.

Jonathan Collins: Maybe you’ve always had someone there backing you up, whether you know it or not. Listen to me, Blake. Get out there and give it all to Daisuke tonight, because I know what I see. I’m your partner tonight, I’ll be there if LEGION tries anything. Don’t worry because I have your back.

Blake now felt somewhat relieved. With Jon watching his back, he knew that outside interference was going to be nothing to worry about. It did take all of LEGION and even a few surprises to “take him out”. Yes, Blake still didn’t believe Jon was in the hospital this whole time, but he was willing to roll with it.

Blake Jones: You got my back tonight? Cool. I need someone to scare off LEGION and me at 5’10 doesn’t do it. But, I promise that I’ll give it my all against Daisuke. He crossed a line a few nights ago...

Blake remembered the mention of his new girlfriend, Car-I, by Daisuke. Tonight, he was going to make Daisuke regret he said anything.

Blake Jones: Oh, and before I forget, what if we added Adrien to Team Seikigun?

Jonathan grins at the mention of Adrien Cochrane, giving him a nod.

Jonathan Collins: You’re the Captain, it’s your team, dude. Listen, if you really want to put the fear of God into Daisuke, I’m going to need to teach you something. We’ve got a few minutes before your match. I think it’s time I teach you something important.

Blake does a bow.

Blake Jones: Of course, Sensai Collins.

Blake just laughs as he stands up straight once more. Jonathan just shakes his head and puts his arm around his young protege’s shoulder.

Jonathan Collins: C’mon, kid. I’m going to teach you something I’ve only taught two other people...and they use it surprisingly well.

Blake Jones: Well, I haven’t been this excited since Christmas. Did you get me a puppy?!

The two friends just laugh as they walk out of the locker room and the scene fades out.

Vinny will be taking the team of Kit Carson and Khris Germany.

What a rich history this title has.

Still need to do the IWGP champion pick, yo.

We got a lot of you who are far behind this week. So...you're all getting an extension!

AND YOU GET ONE! AND YOU GET ONE! AND YOU GET ONE! EXTENSIONS FOR EVERYONE!

See you back here tomorrow at midnight central time. Need more than that? You will get the staff bitchface.

I said you were right on Sally, not specifying which one, since you got Blake wrong that negates one right on Sally, so you only got one right.

You realize that Blake post you quoted was a joke, right? His actual pick is right above your post