Post by Admin on Mar 30, 2021 22:15:25 GMT -5
LIVE FROM THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM at the historic ELDORADO CASINO in RENO, NV APRIL 3, 2021 |
INT. ELDORADO CASINO -- BACKSTAGE AREA
A sweeping shot of the backstage area reveals GRETCHEN DEVERAUX standing by with her microphone at ready. She offers a smile as she looks over at a blue-haired CRYSTAL ZDUNICH. Crystal smirks as she is clad in a $5000 Alexander McQueen two-piece suit and expensive red-bottomed Louboutin heels. Crystal smiles as she runs her hands through her hair as Gretchen begins to speak to her.
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
Hello, everybody! I want to introduce to you my special guest... she's making her debut tonight against another newcomer, Giovanni Odysseus Devione. Reno, please welcome none other than Crystal Zdunich!!
Crystal rolls her eyes as she shakes her head in disgust, turning her attention over to Gretchen.
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
Seriously, this is the type of introduction I get?! You need to treat me like a star! I am coming to this company as a seventeen-year veteran of the sport. I am a former seventeen-time World Champion and I have so much history to my name. On top of that I am also bringing my girlfriend Diamond Caldwell with me, and I am standing right here clad in Alexander McQueen. Clearly I am a big deal. I am the Hollywood Starlet, The Multi Media Queen, The SILVER SCREEN QUEEN and the BLOSSOMING ROSE!!! Wherever I go I know I instantly bring up the level of the wrestling quality you will see on your shows. So, you would do better to actually see me doing what I do best... especially when I get to the upper echelon of this company.
The blonde nods her head quickly.
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
And tonight you will have a huge debut as you step into the ring with-
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
If you're going to ask me how I feel about this match, don't bother. It's an insult!
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
Because Devione isn't known for his wrestling? Or...
She trails off, looking quite puzzled.
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
To be honest, I feel a little insulted. My girlfriend, who I am very happy for in Diamond Caldwell gets to immediately step in and work towards a shot at the Silver State Championship but you take probably your most prolific wrestler and you make her step into the ring with some scrub?! I am sorry but a woman who is the FEATURED ATTRACTION, who is the MAIN EVENT, and who is your HEADLINER won't be curtain jerking for anybody especially not against some person who swears I am merely a young girl in this industry as though I haven't-
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
Wait, you're not-
Crystal keeps speaking as though she hasn't even heard the attempted interjection.
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
Perhaps he was too busy with Tirri's dick in his mouth to fully comprehend that you can't respect the words of somebody who is known for wrestling in a company for like two months and then disappearing off the face of the earth when that welcome gets overstayed...
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
I'm not even sure what you're-
Crystal shakes her head in disgust as she continues to speak.
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
Seriously... Tirri has been around for how long now?! He is too busy worrying about others and constantly calling me Miss Hoover – absolutely offensive, if you ask me. My sex life is none of his business and it just goes to show that he's much too fixated on the prospect of getting a night with this.
She runs a hand down and smooths the imaginary wrinkles from that impeccable jacket.
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
Too worried trying to make money off other people's matches than paying any sort of attention to anything. His head is so far up his own ass; it's clearly why he can't smell his own shit. You know the saying though: a pat on the back is 18 inches from a kick in the ass.
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
I've actually never heard-
Crystal laughs, cutting her off again.
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
I know I got off track and we are supposed to be focused on G.O.D. and honestly as tempting as it is to debate with him on wealth and the prosperity of what I have earned throughout my career. The fact of the matter is I won't be fighting him tonight. The referee might as well count me out because that simply won't be happening. I am not going to change out of my $5000 suit to fight somebody who clearly isn't up to snuff. You might as well roll out some local talent or something because it won’t happen. I'm sure someone else can open the show.
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
You know we're actually open-
Crystal holds up a hand to silence the blonde.
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
Get the referee out here, right now. Count me out because Crystal Zdunich or if you want to be so cool and mock me like the rest of the haters... Zdunich Hilton Lopez Williams Millar insert a fucking name because that shit is SOOOO original... has better things to do. Now, if you'll excuse me.
She stomps off, leaving the blonde to look after her for a moment before shrugging.
GRETCHEN DEVEREAUX
And there you have it folks: the legendary Crystal making her on-screen debut and we're just moments away from kicking things off with our first match, which absolutely does not feature Ms. Zdunich or Mr. Devione in any fashion. Ladies and gentlemen of Reno, Nevada and watching around the world on SplatTV's streaming services... WELCOME TO INFERNO!!
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
SILVER STATE CONTENDER
KENZIE vs DIAMOND CALDWELL
Diamond is already jaw-jacking as the bell rings, clearly unimpressed with the lack of response from her opponent on social media. Kenzie shrugs off the abuse, offering a warm smile and a handshake – Diamond takes it and finds herself pulled in. Kenzie rakes her eyes and takes her down with a hair pull slam. She tries for a mudhole stomping but Diamond is having none of that as she rolls aside and sweeps Kenzie's legs out from under her. She catches her for a facelock – wild elbow to the face gets Kenzie a break and she scrambles out of harm's way. Kenzie is quick to her feet, and before she can mount further offense, Diamond lashes out with a foot, catching her in the guts and doubling her over – JUMPING CORKSCREW ROUNDHOUSE KICK AND KENZIE IS DOWN AND OUT! Diamond scales the ropes, taking a moment to bask in the approval of the crowd before launching herself. FINAL CREDITS (450 splash) AND KENZIE IS FLATTENED! DIAMOND HOOKS THE LEG!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): DIAMOND CALDWELL
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO -- BACKSTAGE
The view opens on the entry hall of the ELDORADO CASINO with the camera quickly locating the familiar figure of "OLD SCHOOL COOL" DON TIRRI walking around the area, as if he was looking for something. But contrary to what we usually see, Tirri isn’t alone. In his tow walks a man who stands 5 inches taller than the already Big Finn, with Tirri making sure to keep him close. Finally Tirri sees what he’s looking for and makes a beeline to it.
DON TIRRI
YO, STEVE. Just the guy I was looking for.
From the crowd Tirri has indeed spotted the unpaid jack-of-all-trades, good old INTERN STEVE. The scrawny kid looks like he's neck-deep in errands as usual. But hearing his name called, he stops in his tracks.
INTERN STEVE
Hey, Mr. Tirri, what can I do for you?
Tirri catches up to Steve and stops in front of him, taking a gander at the stack of papers Steve has in his hands and chuckles.
DON TIRRI
Hey man, Jax running you ragged? Or are you getting whipped by Regan again? Actually, never mind. I need you to get me a backstage pass for Donny here. Promised him I’d show him around but the security won’t let me pass without a pass.
Steve looks at Tirri, and then at the big man standing behind him.
INTERN STEVE
Oh right. Yeah. Security has been beefed up because of Supreme Machine. Mr. Jackson wasn’t happy that someone not on the roster got into the backstage area, not to mention everything that-
Tirri gives an irritated groan, interrupting the intern's tirade.
DON TIRRI
Goddamn that masked freak and his games. Steve, get me that pass and I’ll owe you one. I’ll vouch for Donny, so if anything happens you can just put it on me.
Steve looks torn but finally he sighs and gives a nod.
INTERN STEVE
I’ll see what I can do. Just give me a full name. Can’t just put "Donny" on it.
Tirri gives Steve a wide grin.
DON TIRRI
Donald Mason. Thanks, Steve!
He juggles the papers and wrangles a clipboard from the bottom of the pile, jotting the name down quickly.
INTERN STEVE
One more thing, Mr. Tirri, because I bet I’m gonna be asked: who’s he to you? Friend? Pupil? Trainer? Manager?
Tirri exchanges looks with Donny and throws his arm around Steve's shoulders.
DON TIRRI
Steve, that right there... that is my son.
He winks and as Steve is left staring after them slack-jawed, the duo disappear into the crowd and we cut to commercials.
_____________________________________________
DON TIRRI
YO, STEVE. Just the guy I was looking for.
From the crowd Tirri has indeed spotted the unpaid jack-of-all-trades, good old INTERN STEVE. The scrawny kid looks like he's neck-deep in errands as usual. But hearing his name called, he stops in his tracks.
INTERN STEVE
Hey, Mr. Tirri, what can I do for you?
Tirri catches up to Steve and stops in front of him, taking a gander at the stack of papers Steve has in his hands and chuckles.
DON TIRRI
Hey man, Jax running you ragged? Or are you getting whipped by Regan again? Actually, never mind. I need you to get me a backstage pass for Donny here. Promised him I’d show him around but the security won’t let me pass without a pass.
Steve looks at Tirri, and then at the big man standing behind him.
INTERN STEVE
Oh right. Yeah. Security has been beefed up because of Supreme Machine. Mr. Jackson wasn’t happy that someone not on the roster got into the backstage area, not to mention everything that-
Tirri gives an irritated groan, interrupting the intern's tirade.
DON TIRRI
Goddamn that masked freak and his games. Steve, get me that pass and I’ll owe you one. I’ll vouch for Donny, so if anything happens you can just put it on me.
Steve looks torn but finally he sighs and gives a nod.
INTERN STEVE
I’ll see what I can do. Just give me a full name. Can’t just put "Donny" on it.
Tirri gives Steve a wide grin.
DON TIRRI
Donald Mason. Thanks, Steve!
He juggles the papers and wrangles a clipboard from the bottom of the pile, jotting the name down quickly.
INTERN STEVE
One more thing, Mr. Tirri, because I bet I’m gonna be asked: who’s he to you? Friend? Pupil? Trainer? Manager?
Tirri exchanges looks with Donny and throws his arm around Steve's shoulders.
DON TIRRI
Steve, that right there... that is my son.
He winks and as Steve is left staring after them slack-jawed, the duo disappear into the crowd and we cut to commercials.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO -- WEIGHT ROOM
The camera finds rookie TYSON DEUCE finishing up his leg crunches, the last of his planned exercises before his match with Matt Stone. In front of him is the gorgeous COLBIE DEVITT, his girlfriend/manager. She stares at the camera, her face radiating with a unique sense of beauty. Her smile, just as golden.
COLBIE DEVITT
What you see before you is man destined for greatness. A man with all the potential in the world, and the drive to make it happen.
She steps out of the way to reveal Matt Stone's opponent.
COLBIE DEVITT
This is a man who has come across every challenge he has faced and passing with flying colors. The Two-Card. My boyfriend. Tyson Deuce.
By this point, Tyson had finished his leg crunches and is observing the camera, realizing that it's rolling. He gets up and wipes the sweat from his face with a towel that's got the UPRISING logo on it and walks up behind his girl.
COLBIE DEVITT
You see, unlike that loudmouthed wannabe Matt Stone, he knows what it takes to be the very best. He-
Tyson lightly taps Colbie on the shoulder.
TYSON DEUCE
Uh, babe? I'll take it from here.
COLBIE DEVITT
Of course.
Colbie walks off frame, leaving the camera to maintain its focus on Tyson, watching as he reveals his intensity.
TYSON DEUCE
Matt, I'm gonna be honest. You probably weren't expecting to fight me tonight. Honestly, I had no idea you even still worked for the company since we haven't seen you on any programming since you lost to Don Tirri. I've looked you up. I know you've held gold in several companies in the past. I know you're the test that's been thrown in my path and I know you busted your ass to get where you are today.
He pauses for a moment.
TYSON DEUCE
I also know this isn't the only company cutting you checks. You're out there in other places, at the peak of society, the talk of town and a well-made man. You're a big deal and I gotta commend you for it.
He points to the camera.
TYSON DEUCE
But while you were busy standing on top of the world, I was getting my name made in high school, taking down every competitor that came my way. Then I went to University of Georgia and dominated there, too. Shit, at one point, I was supposed to go to the Olympics! But instead, I went professional. I worked the local shows and tried to evolve into this new world of wrestling.
He sighs, looking away for a few seconds.
TYSON DEUCE
Now, I'll admit. I'm still a little new to this. It's only my third match here and you've had countless matches across the globe. However, I don't see that as a weakness. I see this as an opportunity...to rip the fucking torch from your hand.
By the last few words of that sentence, his voice has nearly devolved into a cold, callous snarl. After a few seconds, Tyson manages to tone down the intensity of his speech.
TYSON DEUCE
And if all else fails, well...
The camera slowly zooms out to reveal Colbie Devitt walking towards her boyfriend, her confident smile once again on her face.
TYSON DEUCE
I got my girl, Colbie to back me up.
Colbie whispers at Tyson, a hint of pride in her voice.
COLBIE DEVITT
You tell 'em, Tyson.
Tyson subtly nods, almost as if to acknowledge his girlfriend.
TYSON DEUCE
So get ready, Matt. We're here tonight in the Silver State. And I'm not just promising the best, I am guaranteeing that you will get the best out of me. Tonight, I'm taking your spot on this roster... moving up to the next level, pushing myself 'cause that's what I do.
Now that he's finished addressing Matt Stone, he turns his attention toward Colbie, extending his hand out to her.
TYSON DEUCE
Ready, babe?
COLBIE DEVITT
Ready.
Colbie grabs onto Tyson's hand and the two walk off, ready to embark on what is sure to be the biggest match in Tyson's short career here in UPRISING.
COLBIE DEVITT
What you see before you is man destined for greatness. A man with all the potential in the world, and the drive to make it happen.
She steps out of the way to reveal Matt Stone's opponent.
COLBIE DEVITT
This is a man who has come across every challenge he has faced and passing with flying colors. The Two-Card. My boyfriend. Tyson Deuce.
By this point, Tyson had finished his leg crunches and is observing the camera, realizing that it's rolling. He gets up and wipes the sweat from his face with a towel that's got the UPRISING logo on it and walks up behind his girl.
COLBIE DEVITT
You see, unlike that loudmouthed wannabe Matt Stone, he knows what it takes to be the very best. He-
Tyson lightly taps Colbie on the shoulder.
TYSON DEUCE
Uh, babe? I'll take it from here.
COLBIE DEVITT
Of course.
Colbie walks off frame, leaving the camera to maintain its focus on Tyson, watching as he reveals his intensity.
TYSON DEUCE
Matt, I'm gonna be honest. You probably weren't expecting to fight me tonight. Honestly, I had no idea you even still worked for the company since we haven't seen you on any programming since you lost to Don Tirri. I've looked you up. I know you've held gold in several companies in the past. I know you're the test that's been thrown in my path and I know you busted your ass to get where you are today.
He pauses for a moment.
TYSON DEUCE
I also know this isn't the only company cutting you checks. You're out there in other places, at the peak of society, the talk of town and a well-made man. You're a big deal and I gotta commend you for it.
He points to the camera.
TYSON DEUCE
But while you were busy standing on top of the world, I was getting my name made in high school, taking down every competitor that came my way. Then I went to University of Georgia and dominated there, too. Shit, at one point, I was supposed to go to the Olympics! But instead, I went professional. I worked the local shows and tried to evolve into this new world of wrestling.
He sighs, looking away for a few seconds.
TYSON DEUCE
Now, I'll admit. I'm still a little new to this. It's only my third match here and you've had countless matches across the globe. However, I don't see that as a weakness. I see this as an opportunity...to rip the fucking torch from your hand.
By the last few words of that sentence, his voice has nearly devolved into a cold, callous snarl. After a few seconds, Tyson manages to tone down the intensity of his speech.
TYSON DEUCE
And if all else fails, well...
The camera slowly zooms out to reveal Colbie Devitt walking towards her boyfriend, her confident smile once again on her face.
TYSON DEUCE
I got my girl, Colbie to back me up.
Colbie whispers at Tyson, a hint of pride in her voice.
COLBIE DEVITT
You tell 'em, Tyson.
Tyson subtly nods, almost as if to acknowledge his girlfriend.
TYSON DEUCE
So get ready, Matt. We're here tonight in the Silver State. And I'm not just promising the best, I am guaranteeing that you will get the best out of me. Tonight, I'm taking your spot on this roster... moving up to the next level, pushing myself 'cause that's what I do.
Now that he's finished addressing Matt Stone, he turns his attention toward Colbie, extending his hand out to her.
TYSON DEUCE
Ready, babe?
COLBIE DEVITT
Ready.
Colbie grabs onto Tyson's hand and the two walk off, ready to embark on what is sure to be the biggest match in Tyson's short career here in UPRISING.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
SPECIAL CHALLENGE MATCH
MATT STONE vs TYSON DEUCE
Stone shoves Deuce to the ropes in the opening moments of the contest and the rookie is dropped on the rebound with a speedy headlock takedown – FOOT ON THE ROPE BEFORE STONE CAN CAPITALIZE! Deuce rolls back to his feet, and this time he dodges a telegraphed strike and nails Stone with a sucker punch that leaves him reeling. He dives in for a grapple but Stone nails a dastardly eye poke and as Tyson Deuce is blinded momentarily, goes for a overhead belly to belly suplex – HOLY SHIT! Somehow, some way, Deuce slips out the back door and catches Stone's head for a sloppy but still effective DDT. He grabs a handful of Stone's hair, much to the horror of the Abominable Showman and drags him up and right into a bear hug that he immediately turns into a belly to back suplex. He transitions that right Into the Fold (figure four leglock) in the middle of the ring. Stone fights to break free while the crowd erupts in fresh cheers for Deuce, egged on by Colbie at ringside. As the camera pans out across the sea of sociallly-distanced faces, it picks out a few scattered here and there who seem to be decked out in black garb and masks like The Nameless followers of the Church of the 7th Circle. After a moment of refusing to answer to Ref Stef's asking if he'd like to continue, Matt Stone actually taps out, giving the rookie Deuce his first huge win in the company.
WINNER (VIA SUBMISSION): TYSON DEUCE
Deuce rolls to his feet, joined by Colbie as his hand is raised in victory and the pair share a very touching embrace and kiss in the middle of the ring as Matt Stone rolls out of the ring without looking back, disappearing up the ramp.
CUT TO:
STATIC
As the scene opens, we are met with two figures arguing inside of a run-down bar. Both men have faded face paint, resembling clowns. Maybe they are circus clowns? That isn't clear. What IS clear, is that they are disagreeing about something in a BIG way. The bigger of the two gentlemen is standing over the other, who is sitting down at the bar, and screaming in his face. The bigger one jams his finger in the other clown's face, as he walks away screaming, "FUCK YOU!"
The camera zooms out and is now facing the back of a shrouded figure. As the figure approaches the clown left at the bar, we realize it is none other than "THE PREMONITION" HAYDEN TRIGGS.
THE PREMONITION
What's up that guy's ass?
The clown lifts his head out of his hands and looks at Hayden with an empty stare.
THE PREMONITION
What's your story, man?
The guy is getting frustrated at this point and clearly wants to be left alone.
CLOWN
Who the fuck are you!?
THE PREMONITION
Just someone looking from the outside in. I see someone who hates his life right now. The big guy was your boss, right?
CLOWN
Well, now I guess you could say he USED to be my boss…
THE PREMONITION
That's harsh, man. Sounds like he needs to be taught a lesson. How about you join me and we go give HIM some devastating news.
CLOWN
I’m good, dude. I don’t think that sounds like a good plan at all...
Even as he says it, the man is looking around, like he's nervous. He spots a redhead a few seats down who smiles at him before turning back to her drink although it still seems like she's listening to the exchange. When the sad clown looks back, Triggs is leaning against the bar, even closer than before and when he leans in, his voice drops to a conspiratorial whisper.
THE PREMONITION
Let me ask you something. Do you love your job that he just fired you from?
CLOWN
I mean... yeah, it’s my whole world. I wake up and get my makeup done and go entertain the masses in every city. What's not to love?
THE PREMONITION
Do you want it back? And more..?
CLOWN
You kidding? Of course I do!
THE PREMONITION
Then join us.
CLOWN
Wait, who's US?
Hayden scoops the man off of his chair in one fluid motion. The cameras go dark as Hayden’s black cloak floats over the screen.
TAG TEAM MATCH
HAYDEN TRIGGS & SIOBAHN MCLEOD vs THE RING CREW
Hayden and Siobahn confer on the ring apron, flanked by The Nameless figure in the black cloak and mask. Pyro stands tall, all alone and he keeps looking up the ramp periodically, as though he expects his partner to show up any moment. Finally, The Premonition steps into the ring, facing the much larger Pyro to kick off the match. Hayden extends his hand with a winning smile on his face. Pyro looks at the hand and back to Hayden's falsely cheery smile, shaking his head. Hayden smiles wider, still extending the hand as there are a few loud pops from the crowd that seem to be emanating from others who are dressed similarly to the towering figure at ringside. Finally, Pyro takes Hayden's hand, and the two shake firmly. Just as Pyro is about to pull his hand back, Hayden pulls him forward, kicking him hard in the groin. Pyro hits the canvas, clutching his parts. Hayden pounds Pyro with a stiff elbow drop. He sets Pyro up for another, but the bigger man rolls out of the way, coming quickly to his feet. He whips Hayden into the ropes, but Hayden manages to halt his momentum, lunging towards his corner for a quick tag to Siobahn McLeod. The crowd erupts in cheers as McLeod hits the ring. Pyro hits her with a surprising snap suplex but she rolls away before he even has a chance to capitalize and hits him with a diving shoulder to the knee. Pyro sags to the canvas, clutching his knee, writhing in pain and the redhead is quick to stomp on that same spot, clearly looking to weaken the vertical base.
Siobahn grabs Pyro, dragging him to his feet, only to level him yet again with a swinging neckbreaker. She drags the suffering Pyro back to his feet once again, sending him into the corner, following him in, hitting him with a solid spear. When Pyro merely sways and doesn't fall, Siobahn smashes his face off the turnbuckle repeatedly. As Pyro sags, Siobahn hauls him upright by the hair and tries to send him into the opposite corner – he resists and scoops her up, taking her down with a running powerslam! The boo birds are out as Pyro starts to turn the tide, seeming like there are a few more black masks in the crowd now than there were before. Siobahn tries to crawl towards her corner, but Pyro roughly pulls her back by the ponytail, applying a kneelock before turning it over into a side leg lock. It looks for a moment like she's going to tap, screaming in agony until The Nameless steps up on the apron, over the top rope. He stalks towards the pair only to get cut off by the referee – Hayden uses that distraction to step between the ropes and drag Siobahn closer to the corner before getting back outside and loudly slapping her hand to tag himself in! Hayden charges Pyro, taking him down with a football tackle. He straddles Pyro for a little PAIN AND SUFFERING – NO WAY! PYRO BUCKS HIM OFF AND NOW HE'S GOT HIM IN A SIDE NECK CRANK CHOKE HOLD, GRINDING HIS FIST INTO THE PREMONITION'S TEMPLE! REVERSAL INTO AN ATOMIC DROP! KILLSHOT! HOLY SHIT! PYRO IS DOWN AND OUT THANKS TO THAT INSANE TIGER DRIVER AND HAYDEN DROPS FOR THE COVER!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): HAYDEN TRIGGS & SIOBAHN MCLEOD
The camera zooms out and is now facing the back of a shrouded figure. As the figure approaches the clown left at the bar, we realize it is none other than "THE PREMONITION" HAYDEN TRIGGS.
THE PREMONITION
What's up that guy's ass?
The clown lifts his head out of his hands and looks at Hayden with an empty stare.
THE PREMONITION
What's your story, man?
The guy is getting frustrated at this point and clearly wants to be left alone.
CLOWN
Who the fuck are you!?
THE PREMONITION
Just someone looking from the outside in. I see someone who hates his life right now. The big guy was your boss, right?
CLOWN
Well, now I guess you could say he USED to be my boss…
THE PREMONITION
That's harsh, man. Sounds like he needs to be taught a lesson. How about you join me and we go give HIM some devastating news.
CLOWN
I’m good, dude. I don’t think that sounds like a good plan at all...
Even as he says it, the man is looking around, like he's nervous. He spots a redhead a few seats down who smiles at him before turning back to her drink although it still seems like she's listening to the exchange. When the sad clown looks back, Triggs is leaning against the bar, even closer than before and when he leans in, his voice drops to a conspiratorial whisper.
THE PREMONITION
Let me ask you something. Do you love your job that he just fired you from?
CLOWN
I mean... yeah, it’s my whole world. I wake up and get my makeup done and go entertain the masses in every city. What's not to love?
THE PREMONITION
Do you want it back? And more..?
CLOWN
You kidding? Of course I do!
THE PREMONITION
Then join us.
CLOWN
Wait, who's US?
Hayden scoops the man off of his chair in one fluid motion. The cameras go dark as Hayden’s black cloak floats over the screen.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
TAG TEAM MATCH
HAYDEN TRIGGS & SIOBAHN MCLEOD vs THE RING CREW
Hayden and Siobahn confer on the ring apron, flanked by The Nameless figure in the black cloak and mask. Pyro stands tall, all alone and he keeps looking up the ramp periodically, as though he expects his partner to show up any moment. Finally, The Premonition steps into the ring, facing the much larger Pyro to kick off the match. Hayden extends his hand with a winning smile on his face. Pyro looks at the hand and back to Hayden's falsely cheery smile, shaking his head. Hayden smiles wider, still extending the hand as there are a few loud pops from the crowd that seem to be emanating from others who are dressed similarly to the towering figure at ringside. Finally, Pyro takes Hayden's hand, and the two shake firmly. Just as Pyro is about to pull his hand back, Hayden pulls him forward, kicking him hard in the groin. Pyro hits the canvas, clutching his parts. Hayden pounds Pyro with a stiff elbow drop. He sets Pyro up for another, but the bigger man rolls out of the way, coming quickly to his feet. He whips Hayden into the ropes, but Hayden manages to halt his momentum, lunging towards his corner for a quick tag to Siobahn McLeod. The crowd erupts in cheers as McLeod hits the ring. Pyro hits her with a surprising snap suplex but she rolls away before he even has a chance to capitalize and hits him with a diving shoulder to the knee. Pyro sags to the canvas, clutching his knee, writhing in pain and the redhead is quick to stomp on that same spot, clearly looking to weaken the vertical base.
Siobahn grabs Pyro, dragging him to his feet, only to level him yet again with a swinging neckbreaker. She drags the suffering Pyro back to his feet once again, sending him into the corner, following him in, hitting him with a solid spear. When Pyro merely sways and doesn't fall, Siobahn smashes his face off the turnbuckle repeatedly. As Pyro sags, Siobahn hauls him upright by the hair and tries to send him into the opposite corner – he resists and scoops her up, taking her down with a running powerslam! The boo birds are out as Pyro starts to turn the tide, seeming like there are a few more black masks in the crowd now than there were before. Siobahn tries to crawl towards her corner, but Pyro roughly pulls her back by the ponytail, applying a kneelock before turning it over into a side leg lock. It looks for a moment like she's going to tap, screaming in agony until The Nameless steps up on the apron, over the top rope. He stalks towards the pair only to get cut off by the referee – Hayden uses that distraction to step between the ropes and drag Siobahn closer to the corner before getting back outside and loudly slapping her hand to tag himself in! Hayden charges Pyro, taking him down with a football tackle. He straddles Pyro for a little PAIN AND SUFFERING – NO WAY! PYRO BUCKS HIM OFF AND NOW HE'S GOT HIM IN A SIDE NECK CRANK CHOKE HOLD, GRINDING HIS FIST INTO THE PREMONITION'S TEMPLE! REVERSAL INTO AN ATOMIC DROP! KILLSHOT! HOLY SHIT! PYRO IS DOWN AND OUT THANKS TO THAT INSANE TIGER DRIVER AND HAYDEN DROPS FOR THE COVER!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): HAYDEN TRIGGS & SIOBAHN MCLEOD
Pyro is still laid out in the middle of the ring and The Nameless stalks across, watching while Siobahn and Hayden have their hands raised for that dominant victory. The moment Hayden's music hits, The Nameless throws off the cloak, revealing very familiar tattoos on his arms. He slowly removes the mask and the crowd goes insane when they see it's ENIGMA! His eyes are dead black, that face paint smeared around them making him look far more frightening than usual. They're like bottomless pits of hate as he stalks over to the fallen Pyro, kneeling down and saying something that's lost in the noise of the crowd. Rearing back, he drives his meathook fist into the face of his former partner, again and again and again before tearing the luchador mask from his face. Blood coats his skin, a second mask that blurs his features as the trio stand there triumphant, further evidence of the Church's growing numbers before the scene fades out to an advertising break for the upcoming UNLUCKY 16 TOURNAMENT, hosted by SplatTV.
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
DOUBLE DEBUT
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH vs G.O.D.
G.O.D. stands in the middle of the ring, awaiting his opponent, refusing to accept that she wants to be counted out and hand him a win by forfeiture. Her music hits, the lights flash and... NOTHING. Nobody appears on the ramp. Nobody comes out. The song plays through to the end and then cuts off into an awkward silence that's immediately replaced by the booing crowd. Ref Stef starts counting.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Devione leans in the corner, looking disgusted as he stares at the still empty ramp. The official keeps counting.
FOUR!
FIVE!
SIX!
The crowd's already booing so neither of them think anything of the noise until...
CRAAACK!
A steel chair crashes down across the back of Devione, sending him face-first into the turnbuckle – CRYSTAL HAS COME OUT FROM THE CROWD WITH A CHAIR IN HAND THAT SHE QUICKLY DROPS AFTER DOING THE DIRTY DEED! Ref Stef turns around to see Crystal nailing Devione with a knee lift to the back and he crumbles into the corner, ripe for the mudhole stomping she's unleashing with those Louboutin heels she's still got on. Finally, she backs off and lets G.O.D. stagger up to his feet, basking in the wall of noise from the fans – CRYSTAL ZDUNICH HAS ARRIVED! Turning her back turns out to be a mistake as Devione unloads with a kick in the ass that sends Crystal down and then he drops a knee across her back. Immediately, he gets back up and scoops Crystal up, holding her over the shoulder, letting Crystal's weight pull her backwards before whipping her with a fall away slam. He drops for the cover.
ONE!
TW—NO!
Crystal kicks out and rakes her opponent's eyes as he starts to get up – he staggers back and collides with the referee and they both go down! Crystal rolls out of the ring, reaching for the discarded chair only to have someone kick it out of her hand! The chair flies back and lands on the ring apron – HOLY SHIT! IT'S SECOND-GENERATION SUPERSTAR ZENA WRIGHT! SHE NAILS A SPINNING BACKFIST AND CRYSTAL GOES DOWN LIKE A TON OF BRICKS!
Dusting her hands, Zena nods to Devione as he leans on the ropes and grins as she rolls Crystal back into the ring just as Ref Stef gets back up, shaking off the cobwebs only to see Crystal laid out and the chair on the apron. She immediately calls for the bell, disqualifying Devione for the illegal weapon use even though he had nothing to do with it!
WINNER (VIA DISQUALIFICATION): CRYSTAL ZDUNICH
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO -- BACKSTAGE
DIAMOND
Ladies, tonight is a big night. I don't have to tell you that we need to stand tall against the likes of The Crush. I've heard rumors of there being a Trios Championship in the works and a win tonight could certainly put us in the running for that. Now these girls might live in a house in Los Angeles but we represent the Gem Stones Manor in San Diego!
RUBY
Bloody hell, we aren't going to let a bunch of wankers come into our territory and beat us. I know for a fact that we are better than them and we just need to showcase it. Not only are we a band but we just launched a movie. What have any of them done besides drink? What happened on last Revolution was a joke that proved absolutely nothing! What are they good at? Drinking? Brawling like a bunch of lowlifes? We ARE better than them in every possible way!
Sapphire nods her head as the raven haired vixen has a cigarette in her mouth. She smirks as she begins to speak.
SAPPHIRE
Tonight we need to show to the world that the Gem Stones are here to stay. I know there are some who have no faith in us but we didn’t come all the way from the UK to lose to a bunch of has-been scrubs. Tonight might be a trios match but there is a fourth Gem Stone that will be at ringside which means...
DIAMOND
That they need to do whatever it takes to make sure that we win. So who is going to be the fourth woman out. Who will be the one to watch out from afar?!
Everyone is looking around the room as Ruby smiles.
RUBY
The only thing that matters is that we need to really send a message to everybody tonight that we're among one of the best teams to have ever joined the roster. Once we really start going, nothing will be able to stop us. We all are made of the best that the UK has to offer. Just look at me: half-Welsh and half-English-
SAPPHIRE
(smiling)
Half-Welsh and English as well, but I proudly represent Manchester!
DIAMOND
(rolling her eyes)
There’s your first problem. Nothing good comes from Manchester, including you.
SAPPHIRE
Oh piss off. If I wanted your opinion, I'd have asked for it!
Emerald sighs as she shakes her head and glances at both of them.
EMERALD
Would all of you just stop!!! I can sit here and say I am Scottish. Diamond can say she is half-Scottish and half-English. None of that matters in the least!
She moves to her feet, putting herself between Diamond and Sapphire.
EMERALD
If it'll make you happy, I'll be the odd one out tonight. I'll make sure nothing untoward happens which means the only thing that matters now is what happens when that bell rings. Are the three of you going to out there and do your absolute best?
RUBY
That's all we can do.
EMERALD
Whatever happens will happen, right?!
DIAMOND
Whatever. Let’s just go do this already. Time to shine brighter than anything else…
ALL
...for we are the Gems!
The view cuts back to ringside.
RUBY
Bloody hell, we aren't going to let a bunch of wankers come into our territory and beat us. I know for a fact that we are better than them and we just need to showcase it. Not only are we a band but we just launched a movie. What have any of them done besides drink? What happened on last Revolution was a joke that proved absolutely nothing! What are they good at? Drinking? Brawling like a bunch of lowlifes? We ARE better than them in every possible way!
Sapphire nods her head as the raven haired vixen has a cigarette in her mouth. She smirks as she begins to speak.
SAPPHIRE
Tonight we need to show to the world that the Gem Stones are here to stay. I know there are some who have no faith in us but we didn’t come all the way from the UK to lose to a bunch of has-been scrubs. Tonight might be a trios match but there is a fourth Gem Stone that will be at ringside which means...
DIAMOND
That they need to do whatever it takes to make sure that we win. So who is going to be the fourth woman out. Who will be the one to watch out from afar?!
Everyone is looking around the room as Ruby smiles.
RUBY
The only thing that matters is that we need to really send a message to everybody tonight that we're among one of the best teams to have ever joined the roster. Once we really start going, nothing will be able to stop us. We all are made of the best that the UK has to offer. Just look at me: half-Welsh and half-English-
SAPPHIRE
(smiling)
Half-Welsh and English as well, but I proudly represent Manchester!
DIAMOND
(rolling her eyes)
There’s your first problem. Nothing good comes from Manchester, including you.
SAPPHIRE
Oh piss off. If I wanted your opinion, I'd have asked for it!
Emerald sighs as she shakes her head and glances at both of them.
EMERALD
Would all of you just stop!!! I can sit here and say I am Scottish. Diamond can say she is half-Scottish and half-English. None of that matters in the least!
She moves to her feet, putting herself between Diamond and Sapphire.
EMERALD
If it'll make you happy, I'll be the odd one out tonight. I'll make sure nothing untoward happens which means the only thing that matters now is what happens when that bell rings. Are the three of you going to out there and do your absolute best?
RUBY
That's all we can do.
EMERALD
Whatever happens will happen, right?!
DIAMOND
Whatever. Let’s just go do this already. Time to shine brighter than anything else…
ALL
...for we are the Gems!
The view cuts back to ringside.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
TRIOS MATCH
THE GEM STONES vs THE CRUSH
Caramel Cane and Lollipop are both in the ring as Heidi stands on the apron, clapping for her teammates. The Gem Stones seem to be having trouble deciding who starts the match before Diamond steps through the ropes, followed closely by Ruby who seems ready to read her the riot act before both are charged by Carrie and Lolli. All four women begin to exchange blows! Caramel drives Ruby into the corner and begins driving her shoulder into her as Lollipop tosses Diamond out over the top rope and she crashes into the other Gem Stones and their instruments at ringside! Caramel backs off, signaling Lollipop who runs to the opposite corner and charges in, leaping and crushing Ruby with a corner splash! She moves out of the way as Caramel has followed suit, charging the opposite corner and then charging Ruby and nailing her with a hard clothesline! She wraps her arm around her head and leaps from the corner with a hard bulldog! Diamond has gotten up on the outside but Lollipop is having none of it as she charges the ropes and leaps through them! SUICIDE DIVE INTO ALL THE GEM STONES!
In the ring, Ruby begins to fight back as Caramel lifts her up. She runs to the ropes, rebounding off and going for a clothesline but Caramel ducks! Ruby turns around to eat a stiff punch, and then Caramel tags Heidi – HOLY SHIT! ASSISTED FROGSPLASH ON THE DOWNED RUBY! Heidi tags back to Carrie –SKULLCRUSHER! She rolls through, hooking both legs for the pin even though it's clear that Ruby is in no shape to kick out.
ONE!
TWO!
THR—NO!
RUBY GOT THE SHOULDER UP AND CARRIE CAN'T BELIEVE IT! SHE ARGUES WITH THE REFEREE AND RUBY DIVES ACROSS THE RING, TAGGING OUT TO SAPPHIRE! The crowd goes absolutely nuts as the fresh-as-a-daisy Gem Stone comes in and punts Carrie right in the back of the head. She goes down and Sapphire drags her back up and right into a Sparkling DDT! She makes the cover and Heidi dives in to make the save! Diamond comes in to stop that and Emerald joins her. It's an all-out slugfest in there as the referee tries to regain control, finally giving up and waving off the match.
WINNER: NO CONTEST
Both teams are brawling, Carrie still down and out in the ring thanks to that brutal kick to the head and it looks like The Gem Stones might win the numbers game before LILITH and CHRISTINA come tearing up the ramp! THE LAST OF THE VALKYRIES HAVE STORMED THE SCENE AND THEY'RE CLEANING HOUSE, DRIVING DIAMOND, RUBY AND SAPPHIRE BACK! The view ends with The Gem Stones on the floor, supporting the limping Ruby as they stare up at The Valkyries while the girls from The Crush slink back down the ramp, looking furious although it's not clear if that's because of the match outcome or the interruption.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO -- LOCKER ROOM
We open up to a view of "OLD SCHOOL COOL" DON TIRRI in the middle of the frame, going through his pre-fight routine. On the sidelines we see the recently introduced Donald Mason standing next to the wall. Tirri gives Donny the "pipe down" gesture and speaks up, staring at the camera.
DON TIRRI
So, INFERNO is upon us. Last time UPRISING broadcast a Supershow, I was in the main event, facing Luther Thunder for the UPRISING championship. I came up short that time, that's not news to anyone. But tonight? Tonight I can earn another shot at him. Win tonight and in the next Supershow SOLSTICE, I’ll be one of the six participants in the Elimination Chamber match for the title. But to get there… I gotta go through hell and come back alive.
He quiets down for a moment, reflecting on the match ahead.
DON TIRRI
LEGION. Of all the cooky, spooky, creepy motherfuckers in this business I gotta go through fucking LEGION. I mean sure, outside of Luther, there ain’t no challenge in this company bigger than this motherfucker. And whoever makes it to the chamber to join the champ and Sativa… you fucks better be thankful that I’m keeping ya’ll safe from him. Because let's face it. LEGION is the one fucker in this company who can legitimately quote Watchmen’s Rorschach and not exaggerate. You all know the quote: "I’m not locked in here with you. You’re locked in here with me". So I’m gonna go out there and make damn sure that LEGION doesn’t get to do that.
He stands up and starts to stretch.
DON TIRRI
LEGION, I know you’ve been a busy bee. And I know that taking you down and out is easier said than done. But I KNOW you can be beat. JC did it. Maggie over at Level Up did it. You’re not invincible. And let me tell you something, man. I’m not an easy target, either. When the dust settles, neither of us will be walking out the same man we were walking in. I’m ready, willing AND able to bleed all over that ring if that is the price I must pay to have another shot at the UPRISING championship. I’m not scared of you LEGION. Not anymore. Do. Your. Worst.
And with that the view fades back to ringside.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFIER
LEGION vs DON TIRRI
Legion starts the match out quickly, leaping at Tirri and driving the bigger competitor into the corner. Legion begins driving their fist over and over into Tirri’s face until Tirri is able to take an opening and shoves Legion away, exploding out of the corner with a clothesline that turns them inside out. . . BUT LEGION SITS RIGHT UP, LAUGHING OUT LOUD. That sound of amusement is echoed from the crowd and as the camera pans around, it shows more and more of the spectators are dressed like members of the Church of the 7th Circle. Tirri backs off, glaring at the weirdo before paying them a stiff kick to the back of the head, before picking them up and lifting them up into a stalling vertical suplex.
Tirri slowly removes one hand, showing off his strength before falling back and sending Legion crashing to the mat. Tirri gets up, doing a small strut for the fans before turning back and lifting Legion off the mat. Legion breaks from the grasp though, catching Tirri with an eye rake! They then lift him on their shoulders going for THE DOOM THAT CAME TO RENO! THEY’VE GOT THE BIGGER MAN ON THEIR SHOULDERS!! BUT NO ITS TOO MUCH! TIRRI SHIFTS HIS WEIGHT, ROLLING FORWARD AND ROLLING LEGION INTO A SCHOOLBOY!!
ONE!
TWO!
Legion kicks out! Tirri lifts them up, staying on the attack he snatches Legion by the back of their head and goes to bash their face into a corner but Legion blocks with a boot and snatches Tirri by the ponytail, wrapping it around his hand twice before smashing Tirri’s face into the turnbuckle over and over again! Legion is laughing like a maniac as they bash Tirri’s face into the corner until they’re satisfied! They then hit Tirri with a backstabber, and go for a pin themselves!!
ONE!
TWO!
NO! TIRRI KICKS OUT! OLD SCHOOL COOL LOOKS FURIOUS AS HE SCRAMBLES TO HIS FEET, MEETING LEGION WITH AN UPPERCUT!! Legion falls back into the ropes, but bounces back and goes for a superman punch but Tirri catches Legion by their throat! He bellows and lifts Legion above his head and charges forward! CHOKESLAM TO THE OUTSIDE!! Neil Rana heads to the outside to check on Legion as Tirri raises his arms to the crowd!
BUT TIRRI DOESNT SEE SATIVA NAVEAH COME OUT OF THE CROWD! SHE’S GOT A 2x4! TIRRI TURNS AND GETS BLASTED IN THE FACE! SATIVA SLIDES OUT AND DISAPPEARS INTO THE CROWD. THE CAMERA CATCHES HER GRINNING BACK AT THE RING AND RUNNING A FINGER OVER HER THROAT, THEN FLIPPING TIRRI THE BIRD! Legion has gotten to their feet, and rolled into the ring. They look down at Tirri, confused but at the sight of the blood running from Tirri’s forehead, Legion leaps down and BEGINS BITING THE WOUND! TIRRI SCREAMS AND FLAILS TRYING TO GET LEGION OFF OF HIM! Rana starts reprimanding Legion then begins counting! Legion breaks at four and stands up, waiting for Tirri to get up. When Tirri does, he’s wobbly and looks out of it, blood running down and staining his face into a crimson mask. He turns and LEGION LIFTS HIM AGAIN! THEY NAILS THE DOOM THAT CAME TO RENO! LEGION GOES FOR THE PIN!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Tirri kicks out a second too late, and Legion sits up, grinning into the hard camera, well on their way to the Elimination Chamber and a shot at the URPRISING CHAMPIONSHIP!!
Tirri slowly removes one hand, showing off his strength before falling back and sending Legion crashing to the mat. Tirri gets up, doing a small strut for the fans before turning back and lifting Legion off the mat. Legion breaks from the grasp though, catching Tirri with an eye rake! They then lift him on their shoulders going for THE DOOM THAT CAME TO RENO! THEY’VE GOT THE BIGGER MAN ON THEIR SHOULDERS!! BUT NO ITS TOO MUCH! TIRRI SHIFTS HIS WEIGHT, ROLLING FORWARD AND ROLLING LEGION INTO A SCHOOLBOY!!
ONE!
TWO!
Legion kicks out! Tirri lifts them up, staying on the attack he snatches Legion by the back of their head and goes to bash their face into a corner but Legion blocks with a boot and snatches Tirri by the ponytail, wrapping it around his hand twice before smashing Tirri’s face into the turnbuckle over and over again! Legion is laughing like a maniac as they bash Tirri’s face into the corner until they’re satisfied! They then hit Tirri with a backstabber, and go for a pin themselves!!
ONE!
TWO!
NO! TIRRI KICKS OUT! OLD SCHOOL COOL LOOKS FURIOUS AS HE SCRAMBLES TO HIS FEET, MEETING LEGION WITH AN UPPERCUT!! Legion falls back into the ropes, but bounces back and goes for a superman punch but Tirri catches Legion by their throat! He bellows and lifts Legion above his head and charges forward! CHOKESLAM TO THE OUTSIDE!! Neil Rana heads to the outside to check on Legion as Tirri raises his arms to the crowd!
BUT TIRRI DOESNT SEE SATIVA NAVEAH COME OUT OF THE CROWD! SHE’S GOT A 2x4! TIRRI TURNS AND GETS BLASTED IN THE FACE! SATIVA SLIDES OUT AND DISAPPEARS INTO THE CROWD. THE CAMERA CATCHES HER GRINNING BACK AT THE RING AND RUNNING A FINGER OVER HER THROAT, THEN FLIPPING TIRRI THE BIRD! Legion has gotten to their feet, and rolled into the ring. They look down at Tirri, confused but at the sight of the blood running from Tirri’s forehead, Legion leaps down and BEGINS BITING THE WOUND! TIRRI SCREAMS AND FLAILS TRYING TO GET LEGION OFF OF HIM! Rana starts reprimanding Legion then begins counting! Legion breaks at four and stands up, waiting for Tirri to get up. When Tirri does, he’s wobbly and looks out of it, blood running down and staining his face into a crimson mask. He turns and LEGION LIFTS HIM AGAIN! THEY NAILS THE DOOM THAT CAME TO RENO! LEGION GOES FOR THE PIN!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Tirri kicks out a second too late, and Legion sits up, grinning into the hard camera, well on their way to the Elimination Chamber and a shot at the URPRISING CHAMPIONSHIP!!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL): LEGION
CUT TO:
EXT. SOMEWHERE IN RENO
LANA CORVIN
Isis, Astarte, Diana, Hecate, Demeter, Kali, Inanna.
The voice of Lana Corvin drifts out of the darkness. The flaring of a match and lighting of candles repelling the inky darkness. Alongside the second generation star is her partner, Jamie Emmerson. The candles illuminate an area around the pair, showing them to be outdoors somewhere. Faintly in the distance, the soft grunting of pigs carries on the air.
LANA CORVIN
My father always told me, to be successful in this business you need to know your opponents. Know them only as they know themselves. Once you do that, he said, you can beat anyone. You can predict their actions and reactions. You can manipulate them into beating themselves. So what better place to get to know our opponents at Inferno than a porcine farm?
Lana looks around and wrinkles her nose waving a hand in front of her face.
LANA CORVIN
If nothing else it’ll get us used to the smell. God this is atrocious. We have the "I’m not a pig farmer" pig farmer and the person so full of their own shit that I swear to the Goddess that they are huffing Jenkem. And yes Regan, you are nothing more than a filthy pig farmer. Oh, I know you like to think of yourself as BrickTop from the movie Snatch. All mean and shitty. Sitting there spouting off shit like...
Lana throws on her best British accent.
LANA CORVIN
Do you know what nemesis means?
Lana drops the accent. Jamie covers her mouth with a hand, giggling.
LANA CORVIN
That’s probably how you see yourself, I bet. But, we all know the truth of the matter. You’re less like BrickTop and more like 'make people squeal like a pig'.
During the last few words Lana’s voice rises a few octaves higher. Meanwhile, Jamie strums a few air strings and very softly makes some banjo noises with her mouth.
LANA CORVIN
Then there is your partner, 'the otherkin, dragonkin, furry, dark lord, self-insert Mary Sue character into every fandom' person. Look, I get it, mental stability is hard. My uncle probably should be locked up because of how out of touch he is sometimes. So I can understand your plight. But, seriously, you SHOULDN'T be wrestling. It’s not safe for you or anyone involved. Your delusions are going to get someone hurt. Badly. Little Sister and I are too young to be permanently injured by some mentally deranged person. It doesn't help that your mentally deficient, better-dressed pig farmer partner plays into those delusions.
Suddenly, Jamie straightens her posture and reaches over, tapping Lana’s shoulder. There’s something on her mind she can’t quite wrap it around. She raises and lowers her index finger. Opens her mouth to say something, then closes it again.
JAMIE EMMERSON
How does she…? I mean….
Jamie turns to the camera again and squints her eyes, tapping her chin as the gears in her head turn.
JAMIE EMMERSON
How does Kalinda wrestle like that? I mean it is a very nice costume, but...
Jamie waves her hand back and forth, gesturing something along the lines of either a serpent or tentacle or even a….
JAMIE EMMERSON
How does that tail work, really?
Jamie folds her hands in her lap and bounces in her seat with a smile that’s almost sweet and adorable until….
JAMIE EMMERSON
Hehe! I’m gonna rip it off and find out! It’ll be like reverse engineering. My dad’s into that stuff!
LANA CORVIN
I bet it is some kind of top-of-the-line hologram. But if it’s real, could come in handy. Good thinking, Little Sister. Tonight is our redemption match. The match to find out the contenders for the Tag Team Titles. Titles that we should be fighting for, but I digress. Tonight we take the redemption and then move on to taking those titles. They rightfully belong to us so we shall bring them home.
Lana sneers at the camera.
LANA CORVIN
Bring your mental defects, your delusions of grandeur, your self-believed superiority. Whatever you think will help you. Bring it all and lay it at our feet. Then watch as we deny your redemption. Watch as your chance slips tantalizingly just out of reach. Remember, you can always say you lost to the greatest Tag team UPRISING will ever see.
Lana stands up and has Jamie join her. The pair grins wickedly at the camera before blowing the candles out, returning the scene to darkness.
CUT TO
INT. KALINDA'S EVIL LAIR -- PARLOR
The scene shifts to a most sinister villainous lair, as can be evidenced by the dark and sinister vibes, ominous lighting, and furniture made of bones. Well, it would be except for the fact that the dread lightning comes to a stop and now the room is suddenly cheerily lit and the walls are no longer dark and menacing outlines, but rather clad in seersucker wallpaper.
The furniture is still made of bones and skulls, though.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
And that concludes the pre-programmed light and audio rig display test. So I think that just leaves two items on the banquet planning agenda. The décor and the menu.
REGAN VOORHEES
I do pride myself on my anatomical knowledge, but I confess I’m not entirely familiar with a number of your design pieces. Not to be ungracious, but the bones pose a bit of an ethical dilemma.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Oh, don't worry everything in this room died with a minimum of pain and from natural causes.
REGAN VOORHEES
A number of these appear to be, for lack of a better term, anthropomorphic. Though I suppose with a large enough collection of bones one could piece together all manner of skeletal chimeras.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
This kind of mounting of sentient corpses is perfectly legal if you have their estate's permission.
REGAN VOORHEES
Did you?
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
New Tathion law states that anything left upon the person of a corpse is fair game out in The Wilds. That includes the corpse. Finders keepers and all that.
Kalinda grabs a black cloth napkin from the table and places it over her head like a hood.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
I AM THE ESTATE!
REGAN VOORHEES
I considered some sort of Halloween-theming, what with the impending witch fight, though I thought you might regard that as offensive. The vegan cheese witch brooms would’ve been worth it, though.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
UNLIMITED VEGAN CHEESE BROOMS!
Regan reaches over and snatches the napkin away and swats Kalinda with it.
REGAN VOORHEES
We still have the pretzel witch fingers and the banana ghosts, of course. I would just hate for the occasion to look like some thrift store Night of the Living Dead.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
I think perhaps we avoid anything witchy. Apparently, the scuttlebutt amongst our cow-orkers, who in addition to orking cows, think that I think that witches don't exist. We can still do something hand-related, though.
Kalinda strokes her chin with her gauntleted hand.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
What's that one citrus fruit that looks like a hand halfway through a cancerous metamorphosis into a tentacle monster?
REGAN VOORHEES
Buddha’s hand. Once when my sorority sister Laurel Musgrave was asleep, we taped one to her left hand. When she woke up, we convinced her it was Asmodeus possessing her for having impure thoughts. The next week she had to move back home for some reason.
Regan titters to herself while Kalinda nods.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
I bet she was mortified that she was suckered into believing that Asmodeus, Lord of the Ninth, would ever stoop so low as to possess a girl for the mere sin of lust. That's a second circle sin, after all. Scarcely worth getting out of bed in the morning over, let alone uprooting yourself from the icy lake of betrayers, spit out Cassius, Brutus, and Judas, and fly up to the overworld for.
REGAN VOORHEES
Doubtful. She wasn't quite that well-read. Likely she thought she’ll lose her cello scholarship after growing a citrus hand. I really should text her.
Regan crosses off a few things on her list.
REGAN VOORHEES
Hmm, any suggestions for alternate dishes, then? Surely you have some exotic otherworldly fruits and veggies crammed into that extradimensional treasure trove of yours?
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Unfortunately, overharvesting struck most of the areas I tended to frequent. Alchemical ingredients yes, delicious and edible plants, no. The two I do have are actually quite tasty but also not for the squeamish.
REGAN VOORHEES
Do tell!
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Well, dryad fronds are like potatoes, only moreso, but they're also basically dreadlocks hacked off the head of a plant-woman.
REGAN VOORHEES
We are definitely not serving our guests tree tresses. And there’s something of an ethical dilemma for me personally. If plants could scream and all that.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
And the other one is, well… speaking of that...
The dragoness reaches under the table and pulls up a flower pot. The pot contains a basket-ball sized mushroom with a horrible human-like face.
REGAN VOORHEES
Oh he's adorable, he has this je ne sais quoi that almost reminds me of Steve.
MUSHROOM STEVE
SKREEEEEEE!
REGAN VOORHEES
Oh, he sounds just as shrill as his namesake!
Just then the actual Steve comes in.
INTERN STEVE
Uh, I hate to interrupt Miss Regan, Miss Kalinda, but they need you up in Gorilla right now.
REGAN VOORHEES
Why, he even sounds just like Steve!
Cut.
_____________________________________________
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- RINGSIDE
The arena lights dim and fog hisses out onto the stage and over the entry ramp. A few moments pass and a sudden burst of electric guitar filling the air with the tune of Gloryhammer's 'Goblin King of the Darkstorm Galaxy'.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Dragon Queen of the Dark God Arimus
Rising on wings of dread
Filled with the power to smite my foes
And to win all the belts in the fed
Spotlights appear, revealing Kalinda Krigesdottir and Regan Voorheess stepping out of a magnificent sedan held aloft by four pig-masked minions with the poles of the sedan on their shoulders.
The front two are the pig-groom and pig-cop from Kalinda's previous entrance, reprising their roles on lead guitar and keytar, while the pig-bride on bass and the spectral drummer stand atop the sedan.
Kalinda is once again clad in sinister armor. This time a hooded robe and cloak, leather armor with large pauldrons, silken red sleeves, a matching silken red skirt, and a large, ominous looking amulet with a glowing red stone. She has a microphone and had her head thrown back as she belts out the altered lyrics.
Regan comes down the sedan's stairs behind her, with a translucent red raincoat over her black and red ring gear. The hood of the raincoat is down, displaying her hair in a high arcing ponytail and a pair of fluffy black and red earmuffs that deafen her to the loudness of the music. For some reason she's carrying a large stuffed pig dressed up like the absent original member of Swine Flew, Matt Knox.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
I have emerged, a last minute replacement
Now the tag team ranks will burn
Filled with dark power yet still I thirst for more
Ancient secrets that you spurn
The pair leave the stage and begin walking down the ramp to the ring.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Trapped on this roundworld, the only dragon's fire
The tag team gold what I desire
Regan holds up a microphone with one hand, and is puppeting the stuffed Pig-Knox with the other, making it appear to yammer into the mic.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Oh shit
Dammit, Knox
Shut your godsdamned mouth
Pig-Knox is suddenly knocked from Regan's hand by a scrawny, somewhat scruffy-looking Supreme Machine that is obviously Steve wearing a SuMa shirt and replica mask from the merch table with a mop-head covered in wood varnish on top of his noggin. The Steve-Machine is promptly chased off by a pair of pig-cops wielding nightsticks.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Dragon Queen of the Dark God Arimus
Rising on wings of dread
Filled with the power to smite my foes
And to win all the belts in the fed
Dragon Queen of the Dark God Arimus
Rising on wings of dread
Filled with the power to smite my foes
And to win all the belts in the fed
As Kalinda repeats the chorus twice, Regan reaches down, picking up and dusting off Pig-Knox, who is looking a bit dirty and worse for the wear after the heinous attack.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
This wretched destiny the end that you all seek
Befelled by evil from the sky
Obey your overlord and cease this travesty
Join me as minions and rise!
The two continue their journey to the ring with Kalinda making the standard source of heavy metal hand gestures as if she's holding a cosmic orb of power, slowly hefting the imaginary orb aloft on the last line.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Called forth from catering, my mighty citadel
I've come to make your bleak lives Hell!
Regan has the microphone again, and once again Pig-Knox is being puppeted as if he's talking the smackiest of smack on said mic.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Oh shit
Dammit, Knox
Shut your godsdamned mouth
The Steve-Machine hops over the guard railing, pulls Pig-Knox off Regan's hand, and punts the stuffed piggie into the crowd, where the puppet is promptly crowd surfed around the arena. The Steve-Machine once more is chased away by pig-masked police officers, this time with sparking tazers.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Dragon Queen of the Dark God Arimus
Rising on wings of dread
Filled with the power to smite my foes
And to win all the belts in the fed
Regan shrugs and pats Kalinda on the shoulder in an apologetic manner while brandishing her original "PLAN B" folder from a few weeks ago.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Dragon Queen of the Dark God Arimus
Rising on wings of dread
Filled with the power to smite my foes
And to win all the belts in the fed
The two circle the ring while the camera follows Pig-Knox's crowd surfing. A hooded figure in black with leaves poking out of their hood acquires the stuffed animal and kneels down. Pig-Knox is once more being puppeted to talk into a mic, this time through the hole in the back of a steel chair by The Obvious Plant.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Oh shit
Dammit, Knox
Shut your godsdamned mouth
The camera pulls back to reveal Steve-Machine standing two stairs up, he looks heavenward, draws in a deep breath for courage, and leaps off the lofty two-foot height to deliver a diving elbow onto the stuffed pig.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Dragon Queen of the Dark God Arimus
Rising on wings of dread
Filled with the power to smite my foes
And to win all the belts in the fed
Steve-Machine shakily stands up, touching all of his appendages as if to make sure they're all present, then hefts up Pig-Knox to deliver the worst Apex Ultima that anyone has ever seen anywhere in the history of professional wrestling.
Meanwhile Regan and Kalinda have climbed into the ring, both looking exasperated at the behavior of Pig-Knox and his inconsiderate receipt of repeated beatings.
KALINDA KRIEGSDOTTIR
Dragon Queen of the Dark God Arimus
Rising on wings of dread
Filled with the power to smite my foes
And to win all the belts in the fed
The song comes to an end, with Regan taking off her earmuffs, sticking a finger in one ear, and wiggling it, making a funny face.
REGAN VOORHEES
Well, that was a bit loud!
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
TAG TEAM #1 CONTENDER
SWINE FLEW vs DAUGHTERS OF DARKNESS
Kalinda wastes no time as the bell rings, circling Jamie as they both look for an opening. Without hesitation, Jamie charges right in, looking to engage only to end up flat on her back courtesy of a speedy tail-sweep. Jamie struggles to her feet, shaking away the cobwebs, but Kalinda is right there, and she takes Jamie down again with a vicious multiple kick combination, slamming the back of her head against the turnbuckles before Emmerson hits the canvas. She locks on a crossface hold, wrenching on Jamie's neck but before she can really cinch it in with getting the tail involved, Jamie's hand closes over the rope and Ref Stef forces the break. They're close enough to the DoD corner that Lana Corvin reaches down and slaps Jamie's arm before leaping over the ropes and catching Kalinda with a knee to the face as she's rising. Kalinda surges to her feet, immediately charging at Corvin with a full head of steam only to get caught with a stiff kick to the midsection – hot tag to Jamie who springs over the ropes and hits a GTS (Fireman's carry drop into a rising knee). As Kalinda bounces back Lana takes them down with a rear jumping neckbreaker – CALL OF DEMETER! Jamie drops for the pin!
ONE!
TW—CRACK!
A swift kick to the back of the head courtesy of Regan and Swine Flew is still in the running! Ref Stef forces Regan out of the ring and Jamie dives into the corner, making another quick tag out to Lana! Kalinda gets a boost from Sinestro but Lana stumbles just as she's about to connect with a knee to the neck and instead she crashes hard into the top turnbuckle right in her own corner. This time it's Regan who's more than happy to tag herself in, daintily stepping through the ropes after having Steve hold them open for her – OOF! RIGHT INTO A SCHOOLGIRL ROLL UP FROM CORVIN! NOTHING HAPPENS AS KALINDA WHIPS HER IN THE BACK OF THE HEAD WITH HER TAIL, BREAKING UP THE PINFALL ATTEMPT! Lana breaks the hold and rolls back only to have Regan punt her under the chin. Lana falls back, right into the corner where Jamie is ready to tag herself back in as Lana crumbles to the corner and rolls out onto the apron. Regan whirls and springs into action, going for a fast clothesline but Jamie ducks and follows up with a double-arm DDT. Regan kips up to her feet, and charges again, this time with more confidence as Jamie's attention is diverted to the floor as Kalinda grabs Lana by the leg and pulls her down off the apron. The fans are booing mercilessly.
Regan connects with Jamie and takes her down with an armdrag takedown, and immediately locks her into the Cruelty-Free Chicken Wing. Jamie slams an elbow into Regan's chest and strains for the corner but it's just out of reach and Lana is still on the floor. Jamie strains and the crowd boos relentlessly. Finally, she gets an elbow free and rolls over, breaking the hold. She nails a forearm smash that rocks Regan's head back. Without a second's hesitation, Regan fires right back and slams her fist into the side of Jamie's head. Grinning like a moron, Jamie staggers up to her feet, taking a few steps as though nothing is wrong, before she crumbles. Regan makes the hot tag to Kalinda who comes in like a house on fire – Guiding Hand (pop lift into an uppercut) and Jamie hits the deck hard. Kalinda scrambles over and locks the dazed Emmerson into the Queen's Dominion! Lana sees the pinning predicament and goes to slide back into the ring, oblivious to the fact that Regan's right behind her!
CRACK!
The croquet mallet connects, knocking Lana to the floor but Ref Stef misses it as she's checking on Jamie who looks close to passing out even though she's valiantly trying to fight through the pain! Jamie refuses to tap, trying like hell to fight until Kalinda grabs a handful of her hair, pulling her head back even as her tail wraps around Jamie's midsection, leaving her no choice but to give up before she's crushed under that boa constrictor-like grip! Swine Flew picks up the huge win AND cements themselves as number one contenders for the tag team titles!
WINNER (VIA SUBMISSION): SWINE FLEW
CUT TO:
EXT. ELDORADO CASINO -- OVERFLOW PARKING LOT
We come to seeing Sativa Nevaeh pacing back and forth in the parking lot.
SATIVA NEVAEH
I do not know what to expect tonight. That’s a rare thing for me. Had the change to this match not happened, I would know what I’d be doing. But since JC has to focus on some big, dumb, mask-wearing freak instead of me, I’m at a loss.
Sativa throws her hands up before letting them fall to her sides.
SATIVA NEVAEH
Unlike my opponent, an undefeated streak doesn’t matter to me. When you start making that everything that's important? That first loss will shatter you. Your identity is gone because you are no longer some bad-ass undefeated monster. You say you can focus tonight, JC, but that’s a bald-faced lie. There are one of two options that shall happen tonight. First, you find the dude you want to kill and you two spend god knows how long trying to kill each other. What kind of shape will you be in then? Will you be crawling out here to face me saying you are fine? That takes all the fun out of this for me.
Sativa stops in front of a random car. She sets herself down on the hood and looks out across the parking lot.
SATIVA NEVAEH
The other option is you come to the match fresh and ready to go and that freak shows up and there goes your attention. I sit back, let you two beat the holy piss outta each other and then I swoop in for the win. Again, all fun gone for me. Sure, I get the victory and end your precious streak. But it's boring for me. I want QUALITY wins. Not just any win. That’s where your focus should be.
She sweeps her hand out gesturing towards the mostly vacant lot.
SATIVA NEVAEH
This is where we were supposed to do battle. A grand fight between top stars. Now, all we have is me picking over the carcass of a former top star. A match that benefits no one. Save maybe your own fragile sense of self or ego. Because you will have your pitiful, meaningless fight with the freak. You will have that misplaced revenge. Then you will lose your precious streak. You should have done the smart thing, begged for this match to stay the average, run-of-the-mill match. Then you’d have a chance. Then you might have been able to save your streak. But you welcomed this change. You wanted this. Remember that. This is you, JC. This isn’t me. I want better for this match. Hell, I wanted a better quality of opponents after those first few.
She shakes her head in mock dismay.
SATIVA NEVAEH
But I guess I have to deal with what I was dealt. Maybe use you to send another message. Yeah, that might make this worth it in the end.
She shakes her head in mock dismay.
SATIVA NEVAEH
But I guess I have to deal with what I was dealt. Maybe use you to send another message. Yeah, that might make this worth it in the end.
Sativa smirks and winks into the camera. She hops off the hood of the car and walks off across the parking lot.
CUT TO:
EXT. ELDORADO CASINO -- STAFF PARKING LOT
STREET FIGHT
SATIVA NEVAEH vs JC
The camera cuts to the back, where JC is seen walking out into the night air and the parking lot, ripping off his UGWC T-shirt and tossing it aside as he looks around for either the monster or his opponent.
JC
Where you at, Stoner Trope? Big, bloated, Wannabe Trope? Come out, come out wherever you are!
He snatches a shovel propped up by a golf cart, likely the groundskeepers as he continues on his search. He freezes, as he comes across Sativa sitting on the tailgate of a pickup truck. She has the 2x4 sitting in her lap and is puffing on a joint. Upon seeing JC, she exhales the smoke into the air, and grins.
SATIVA NEVAEH
Finally.
JC sneers at her, switching hands with the shovel he points it at her before speaking.
JC
I’ll get to you but right now, I’m gonna find that masked fuck. Stay the fuck out of my way.
Sativa rolls her eyes, before motioning for JC to carry on. However as soon as he turns his back and continues to walk away, Sativa leaps from the tailgate and charges in, bashing the 2x4 across the small of JC’s back! He yells in pain, arching his back forward. She swings for his face as he turns to face her but JC is able to get the shovel up and block the blow! He then kicks Sativa hard in the stomach and steps back, before kicking her in the side of the head sending her crashing to the pavement.
JC
Alright, fine. You die first!
JC raises the shovel and brings it down but Sativa blocks the blow with the two by four! She kicks JC right in the yam bags!! He stumbles back, cradling himself with both hands having dropped the shovel. Sativa gets up, swapping for the shovel as JC has gone to lean on a car to support himself Sativa lets out an angry scream as she swings the shovel into the smell of JC’s back causing him to arch forth away from the pain. She swings again but JC ducks and snatches Sativa in a waist lock. HE GERMAN SUPLEXES HER ONTO THE HOOD OF THE CAR!!
JC climbs onto the hood of the car, snatching Sativa by her hair he pulls her up, and lifts her for a powerbomb..BUT SATIVA BEGINS BASHING JC IN THE FACE! SHE REVERSES THE POWERBOMB INTO A HURRICANRANA! JC CRASHES THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD AND INTO THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR!! Sativa sits on the hood, trying to regain herself. She stretches her back, still in a world of pain from the Suplex. She nods and turns to drag JC out of the car BUT JC IS UP AND LEANING OUT THE WINDSHIELD! HE GRABS SATIVA AND HEADBUTTS HER, CAUSING HER TO FALL FROM THE HOOD!
JC slides out, and walks over to the shovel. He’s covered in broken glass and bleeding from a million cuts, he stands over the dazed Sativa, and raises the shovel...WHEN SUDDENLY SUPREME MACHINE CHARGES IN FROM NOWHERE, SHOULDER TACKLING JC AND SENDING HIM FLYING INTO THE SIDE OF A PRODUCTION TRUCK!! He lets out a bellow and is upon JC in an instant, reigning down hard right hands. Sativa suddenly charges in, and begins assisting in the beat down! It’s a mugging!!
SUDDENLY DON TIRRI ENTERS THE FRAY! HE’S PAYING SATIVA BACK FOR HER SHENANIGANS DURING HIS EARLIER MATCH! Tirri and Sativa begin their own brawl at sees Tirri getting the upper hand as Supreme Machine lifts JC up by his hair, snatching him with both hands by the throat and lifting him into the air, choking the life out of JC! BUT JC WONT DIE YET! He thumbs SuMA in the eye, forcing the big man to drop him and snatches the shovel...JC BUSTS THE SHOVEL IN HALF OVER SUPREME MACHINE'S HEAD! AND THE MONSTER JUST STARES AT JC!! HE SNATCHES JC BY THE THROAT AGAIN, AND TOSSES HIM RIGHT BACK INTO THE PRODUCTION TRUCK! SuMa snatches the broken shovel, and begins stalking toward JC lifting the sharpened wood over his head menacingly….WHEN NOW MAC BANE AND AMBER RYAN ARE ON THE SCENE! THE TWO BEGIN TO THROW BOMBS ALL OVER THE MONSTER OF A MAN! SUDDENLY AMBER IS NAILED IN THE BACK OF THE HEAD BY A WAYWARD PUNCH FROM SATIVA!!
SATIVA, AMBER AND TIRRI HAVE BEGAN BRAWLING AWAY FROM THE REST!!! SuMa TURNS ON MAC AND THE TWO HOSSES EXCHANGE RIGHT HANDS!! SuMa is getting the better of Mac but suddenly JC is up again! He nails SuMa in the back of the head with a stiff forearm shot! The Cowboy and The Answer are beating the shit out of the monster!! They snatch him and with audible effort they LIFT THE MONSTER UP AND SEND HIM CRASHING DOWN WITH A DOUBLE SUPLEX!!
..AND THE MONSTER SITS UP!! JC AND MAC TURN AROUND ONLY TO BE TAKEN DOWN BY A FREIGHT TRAIN OF A DOUBLE CLOTHESLINE!! SUPREME MACHINE LETS OUT A BELLOW OF ANGER AND GOES TO SNATCH THE TWO WHEN HOLY SHIT THIS MATCH IS GETTING CROWDED
??
MACHINE!!
SuMa’s head snaps to the voice. The camera moves with him to find MATT KNOX standing on the roof of the casino! He’s next to something covered in a black tarp. Muffled screams can be heard but you can’t tell from where exactly.
MATT KNOX
You haven’t BROKEN a thing! BUT ME?! I’M GOING TO BREAK YOUR LEASH, YOU DOG!!
Knox rips the tarp off to reveal JENNIFER RIVERS tied to a cross! IT'S JENNY OF NAZARETH! Supreme Machine stares up, motionless! Behind him JC and Mac have gotten to their knees, but have frozen, exchanging looks as they observe their clearly unwell friend.
MATT KNOX
LONG LIVE THE QUEEN!
And with that, Knox steps back and superkicks the crucifix! IT CAREENS OFF THE ROOF INTO A WELL-PLACED DUMPSTER! SUMA shakes his head and turns away from the spectacle ONLY TO EAT THE BIG BOOT OF DEATH! SuMa stumbles back when SUDDENLY HE’S CRASHED INTO BY A MOTORCYCLE LOOKING FOR A PARKING SPACE! SUMA IS DOWN AND CRADLING HIS RIBS! THE BIKE SLIDES AND THE RIDER GOES DOWN WITH IT! THE CAPE SAVES HIM FROM ROAD RASH!!
ITS THE AVENGER!!
AVENGER
OH NO!! CITIZEN!!
AVENGER runs to Supreme Machine’s side heroically! But SuMa has gotten to one knee and snatches Avenger by the throat! He bellows as he stands, and chokeslams Avenger to the concrete! The Monster stalks off toward the dumpster now at a frightening clip! Mac Bane moves to pull Amber off of Sativa and Tirri as JC refocuses, rushing Sativa is brawling with Tirri! She sees JC Coming and ducks! JC NAILS DON TIRRI WITH THE BIG BOOT OF DEATH!!
JC pays Tirri no mind, turning back to Sativa Nevaeh and snatching her! He goes for a suplex but Sativa crashes her knees into his head, causing him to drop her! She lands deftly and goes for the Got ‘em!! BUT JC shoves her away! She clambers to her feet only to be nailed by THE BIG BOOT OF DEATH BY JC! JC leaps on her for the pin!
ONE!
TWO!
NO! DON TIRRI HAS BROKEN THE COUNT UP WITH A PUNT TO JCs HEAD!! HE YANKS JC UP AND SPIKES HIS HEAD INTO THE CONCRETE WITH THE DADDY-DT!! SUDDENLY AMBER RYAN IS BACK IN THIS, SHE NAILS TIRRI WITH A LEAPING KNEE LIFT THAT STUMBLES HIM THEN KICKS HIM IN THE GUT AND HOOKS BOTH ARMS!! ORIGINAL SIN!!!
AMBER GETS UP AND TAUNTS TIRRI ONLY TO TURN TO FIND SATIVA HAS GOTTEN UP AND HITS HER WITH THE GOT ‘EM!! SATIVA gets up jawing off to Amber only to turn and be leveled by MAC BANE AND THE BAR! THE SPEAR NEARLY CUTS HER IN HALF!!
NEIL RANA THROWS HIS ARMS UP AND WALKS TO THE CAMERA, SHOUTING ABOVE THE CHAOS
NEIL RANA
RING THE BELL. NO CONTEST! OFFICIAL HAS LOST CONTROL OF THE MATCH!
WINNER: NO CONTEST
CUT TO:
EXT. SOMEWHERE IN LAS VEGAS
The words RECORDED EARLIER flash across the screen before the view shifts to reveal SAMANTHA TOLSON sitting next to her pool in her Las Vegas home in the warm sunlight of the afternoon, wearing a one-piece orange swimsuit and aviator shades as she relaxes on a chaise lounge.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
So, at INFERNO, three men and yours truly are in a four way elimination match to become the first Silver State Champion.
She pauses for a beat.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Well, two men and myself anyway. I can't rightly call Chris Mosh a man.
Samantha smiles wryly.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
But I'll deal with you in a bit. First, I want to talk about Michael Marou and Kendrick Kross. Or, as I call them: overconfident. I would like to address you both individually. Alas, as much as you are different, you are also very, very much the same. Both of you think this is some stroll through the blooming tulips, an exercise in futility as you both believe you're already holding the belt.
The disdain is evident all over her face, even though her tone is almost pleasant.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
I'd like to think both of you know a little better than that, but the words from your mouths prove differently. I've beaten you twice in three matches, Kendrick, and Michael? Far as I'm concerned you got past me by the skin of your teeth. Let's not overlook the fact that you hate each other with a passion...and it all comes around to neither of you holding the ability to take winning for granted.
She pauses for a moment.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Then again, both you two are a far sight better than Mosh.
Samantha takes off her sunglasses, a small scar still over her right eye. She sits up, her face showing anger.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
I told you, Mosh, not to cross me. I warned you. Soon enough, you're going to pay for your stupidity. You claim it was an accident, trying to play the part of the innocent, but your eyes were on me the whole time. You knew what you were doing, and your intent was clear. You wanted a leg up on me. Try to weaken me before this match. But like you do at most things, you failed miserably.
She stares forward intently.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
You will pay the price for being an idiot, but not in this match. That comes in the weeks following, when I hold the title you covet so very highly.
Samantha puts her shades back on her face, relaxing in her chaise once again. Her face relaxes as well.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Here's the jist of all of this: while all three of you have been preening and primping around with a belt you don't even hold, while you've been bragging about your successes in other companies, I've been preparing for this match. I don't take winning for granted, because I know the work it takes to get it done. That said, I believe I will win this match. Why? Because I might be the smallest in the match, but I damn sure am the only one walking in with a level head.
She falls silent for a moment, letting that thought sink in.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
My focus is on winning. Not pretending I've already won. Not on useless Twitter wars. It's not going to be easy. I won't be the one that's going to say that. But nothing worth doing ever is.
The determination rings out in her voice.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
But I can, and will, beat all three of you. And when I do? I will become the ACTUAL Silver State Champion. See you boys in Reno.
The camera fades to black slowly, catching Samantha close her eyes and grin just before the shot ends and we cut back to ringside.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
So, at INFERNO, three men and yours truly are in a four way elimination match to become the first Silver State Champion.
She pauses for a beat.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Well, two men and myself anyway. I can't rightly call Chris Mosh a man.
Samantha smiles wryly.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
But I'll deal with you in a bit. First, I want to talk about Michael Marou and Kendrick Kross. Or, as I call them: overconfident. I would like to address you both individually. Alas, as much as you are different, you are also very, very much the same. Both of you think this is some stroll through the blooming tulips, an exercise in futility as you both believe you're already holding the belt.
The disdain is evident all over her face, even though her tone is almost pleasant.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
I'd like to think both of you know a little better than that, but the words from your mouths prove differently. I've beaten you twice in three matches, Kendrick, and Michael? Far as I'm concerned you got past me by the skin of your teeth. Let's not overlook the fact that you hate each other with a passion...and it all comes around to neither of you holding the ability to take winning for granted.
She pauses for a moment.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Then again, both you two are a far sight better than Mosh.
Samantha takes off her sunglasses, a small scar still over her right eye. She sits up, her face showing anger.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
I told you, Mosh, not to cross me. I warned you. Soon enough, you're going to pay for your stupidity. You claim it was an accident, trying to play the part of the innocent, but your eyes were on me the whole time. You knew what you were doing, and your intent was clear. You wanted a leg up on me. Try to weaken me before this match. But like you do at most things, you failed miserably.
She stares forward intently.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
You will pay the price for being an idiot, but not in this match. That comes in the weeks following, when I hold the title you covet so very highly.
Samantha puts her shades back on her face, relaxing in her chaise once again. Her face relaxes as well.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
Here's the jist of all of this: while all three of you have been preening and primping around with a belt you don't even hold, while you've been bragging about your successes in other companies, I've been preparing for this match. I don't take winning for granted, because I know the work it takes to get it done. That said, I believe I will win this match. Why? Because I might be the smallest in the match, but I damn sure am the only one walking in with a level head.
She falls silent for a moment, letting that thought sink in.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
My focus is on winning. Not pretending I've already won. Not on useless Twitter wars. It's not going to be easy. I won't be the one that's going to say that. But nothing worth doing ever is.
The determination rings out in her voice.
SAMANTHA TOLSON
But I can, and will, beat all three of you. And when I do? I will become the ACTUAL Silver State Champion. See you boys in Reno.
The camera fades to black slowly, catching Samantha close her eyes and grin just before the shot ends and we cut back to ringside.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
SILVER STATE CHAMPIONSHIP: FATAL FOUR WAY ELIMINATOR
CHRIS MOSH vs SAMANTHA TOLSON vs MICHAEL MAROU vs KENDRICK KROSS
As soon as the bell rings, the four all-too-familiar dance partners pair off with Kross and Mosh squaring off and trading blows. Across the ring, Tolson and Marou are doing the same, with Tolson doing her best to juke and jive the much more physically imposing Marou. Kross manages to starch Mosh with a european uppercut that sends him reeling and leaning on the ropes for support, he turns and charges Tolson and Marou, leaping up with a flying crossbody and taking both down! Kross gets to his feet absolutely pumped but doesn’t see Mosh sneak up behind him and roll him up!
ONE!
TWO!
MOSH GRABS THE TIGHTS!
TH---NO! NEIL RANA SEES MOSH GRABBING THE TIGHTS AND STOPS THE COUNT, YELLING AT MOSH TO BREAK THE PIN AND STOP THE BULLSHIT!!
Mosh gets up, arguing with Rana and making a great effort to declare his innocence! THIS GIVES KROSS THE OPENING! HE NAILS MOSH WITH A BACKSTABBER!! HE STALKS HIM, BACKING UP TO THE ROPES! AS SOON AS MOSH IS ON HIS HANDS AND KNEES, KROSS CHARGES IN AND NAILS HIM WITH THE TRAMP STAMP! HE ROLLS MOSH OVER AND GOES FOR THE PIN!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
CHRIS MOSH HAS BEEN ELIMINATED AND WILL NOT BE THE SILVER STATE CHAMPION!
Kendrick Kross gets to his feet, giving Mosh a piece of his mind and pointing his finger at the guy who nearly screwed him out of this shot! He turns back to Tolson and Marou to find Marou has driven Tolson into a corner and has mounted her and is currently raining down rights and lefts onto her face! Kross charges over and deftly leaps up on the ropes! He snatches onto Marou and leans back! HE YANKS HIM OFF THE TURNBUCKLE WITH A SUPER BACKSTABBER!!
Kross kips to his feet and cries out to the fans! He is on fire! BUT HE SHOULD BE PAYING ATTENTION! CHRIS MOSH HAS NOT LEFT THE RING YET! HE STRIKES KROSS FROM BEHIND BEFORE TURNING HIM AROUND AND GETTING HIM IN POSITION...MOSH PIT! THE VERTEBREAKER SPIKES KROSS INTO THE MAT! Mosh then leaves, a dead look on his face as he backs up the ramp to the jeers of the audience! Marou, not one to waste an opportunity leaps upon Kross!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
KENDRICK KROSS HAS BEEN ELIMINATED AND WILL NOT THE SILVER STATE CHAMPION!
Samantha Tolson suddenly explodes out of the corner, cutting Marou in half with a spear! Tolson has come unglued and is wailing on the stunned Marou! She gets to her feet, yanking him up with her and whips him into the corner! She charges in and begins to break him down with a series of kicks! Nihon e no ōdo!! The Ode to Japan!!!! Tolson backs off after Marou has fall to one knee, she backs up and charges in hut Marou explodes out of the corner with a clothesline that nearly takes her head off!
Marou stands up, looking disgusted as he tries to walk off the assault on his legs. He adjusts his tights, and signals for the end! He begins to stalk Tolson as she gets up,. Trying to get her bearings he goes for the CORPORAL PUNISHMENT! BUT NO! TOLSON DUCKS! SCHOOLBOY!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
MAROU KICKS OUT A SECOND TOO LATE!!! HE SITS UP, SHOCKED BEFORE IT GIVES WAY TO DISGUST AND HE ROLLS OUT OF THE RING AS SAMANTHA TOLSON IS PRESENTED WITH THE SILVER STATE CHAMPIONSHIP! She looks near tears as she clutches the belt, heading to a corner and raising it above her head to the cheers of the crowd!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL) AND NEW SILVER STATE CHAMPION: SAMANTHA TOLSON
CUT TO:
STATIC
We open to a shaky view, as if the camera is being turned and rolled by inexperienced hands. Eventually we get an uncomfortably close view of TINY TIM BUSCH’s face. He smiles and lets out a triumphant yell, finally setting the camera down on a table and sitting down to face right at it.
TINY TIM BUSCH
HEY FRIENDS! Tiny here! Socksworth said I should talk to you guys directly like this. He didn’t tell me how hard the camera was to get to work though, but I didn’t want to bother Sammy or Tommy because they are busy preparing for the big match tonight. So it’s just me and Socksworth this time!
He raises his right hand to show the sock puppet that he always has with him to the camera.
TINY TIM BUSCH
Anyway, big night tonight! Both me and Socksworth are so excited! We and my brothers are going to be wrasslin' the big guy and the pretty lady for the UPRISING tag team titles! The Three Buscheketeers will be champions tonight. Isn’t that just exciting?
Tiny flashes a wide smile to the camera.
TINY TIM BUSCH
See, when Tommy told us we would be coming to wrassle I was so happy. Ever since I was small we used to sit in front of the telly at home, watching wrasslin' with Papa. And I never thought I would be one of those guys one day. Papa is gone now, but I’d like to think that whenever I am out there wrasslin', a boy just like me is watching with his papa, cheering me on just like I cheered my heroes. And Socksworth says nobody gets cheered as much as the champion. And I understand. Even though the champions were sometimes really bad men… But it made me cheer even harder when my hero was wrasslin' the bad guy.
He stops to think for a bit, which looks like silently conferring with Socksworth, and the puppet actually nods to him before he speaks up again.
TINY TIM BUSCH
But the fans of UPRISING will have so much to cheer for. Because the big guy and the pretty lady are not bad guys. They’re tough. Like REEEAAAALLLYYYY tough. But I know that the Three Buschketeers can out-tough them. Socksworth says that if we want to be champions we have to be tougher than the toughies and smarter than the smarties. Tommy is the smartest person I know, and Sammy is the toughest person I know. I am the heroiest person I know. Socksworth says that it is tradition to say all kinds of mean things about your opponents, make threats and promises but I don’t want to. I am the good guy here. And when all those little boys and girls in their living rooms cheer for me… I will wrassle with my brothers and we will be champions!
Tiny stands up and gives a goofy thumbs-up pose.
TINY TIM BUSCH
My name is Tiny, this is Socksworth and I will see you all in the ring!
TAG TEAM TOURNAMENT FINALS
OBLIVION vs THE BROTHERS BUSCH
The match starts with Mac Bane, who has to all but tie Amber to the corner with the tag rope, insistent she take some extra time to heal after taking the worst of it with their involvement in the street fight earlier. Across the ring, Big Sam Busch has stepped in to meet the Texan head-on. As soon as the bell rings, Loverboy sets to getting the crowd into it, even with them already on their feet and awaiting the impact. They don’t have to wait long as Big Sam and Mac Bane lock up! Mac gets Sam in a side headlock, whipping him into the ropes! Sam rebounds and goes for a shoulder tackle! MAC DOESN’T MOVE AN INCH! The two hosses jaw off, prompting Mac to charge the ropes and bounce off, coming in with his own shoulder tackle...SAM BUSCH DOESNT MOVE AN INCH!! The two stare each other down as the fans come alive! They nod, bumping fists before tying up! Mac manages to drive Sam into the ropes, whipping him across to the other side. Tiny Tim gets a blind tag and Sam ducks a Mac Bane clothesline! Tiny catches him with a shoulder tackle and the Texan is down!
The Brothers Busch pull the Texan up, before spiking his head back down with a double DDT! As they get up Amber Ryan hops into the ring and charges the two, catching Tiny in the jaw with a sucker punch before turning to Sam Busch and driving him to the ropes with a flurry of rights and lefts! She backs up, and charges forth with a leaping crossbody that sends both Sam and Amber out of the ring and to the floor with a sickening THUD! Mac Bane crawls to the ropes, looking out to check on his fiancée but Loverboy makes him pay as he charges at Mac and nails him in the back of the head with a knee! Loverboy pulls Mac to his feet and begins driving stiff uppercuts into Mac’s midsection. He straightens him up and nails him with a headbutt! Loverboy is showing that he is indeed related to Sam with these vicious blows! He drives Mac into a corner and lays into him over and over again until Mac Bane is in a seated position! Tiny Tim backs up, playing up the crowd with the help of Socksworth before charging in and nailing him with ALLEY OOP before scooping him up for a PUT A SOCK IN IT!
Tiny Tim pulls Mac up again but before he can go for the pin, Amber Ryan has rolled back in and leaps upon the gentle giant’s back, locking in a bulldog choke! But not for long! Sam Busch has never missed a good fight! He rips Amber off of his baby brother, and whips her into the corner and into Mac Bane who has gotten to his feet! Sam snatches Loverboy as he enters the fray and whips him into Amber, sandwiching her between Mac and Loverboy! NO COMPLAINTS FROM LOVERBOY! Until BIG SAM CHARGES IN AND SPLASHES ON THE WHOLE PILE! Mac Bane collapses after having over 600 pounds squished into him. Tiny Tim throws Amber out of the corner into Sam who goes for a clothesline but Amber Ryan doesn’t die! She ducks under and turns Sam Busch around – ORIGINAL SIN!! Big Sam’s head is spiked into the mat and he rolls out of the ring! Amber Ryan gets to her feet and turns around to Tiny Tim who kicks her in the gut, and nails her with a powerbomb! Tiny gets to his feet slowly, and shepherds Amber Ryan out of the ring with his boot, looking genuinely remorseful. He turns around to MAC BANE EXPLODING OUT OF THE CORNER WITH A SPEAR THAT NEARLY CUTS HIM IN HALF! IT'S THE BAR!! MAC BANE HOOKS BOTH OF TINY TIM'S LEGS!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL) AND NEW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS: OBLIVION
TINY TIM BUSCH
HEY FRIENDS! Tiny here! Socksworth said I should talk to you guys directly like this. He didn’t tell me how hard the camera was to get to work though, but I didn’t want to bother Sammy or Tommy because they are busy preparing for the big match tonight. So it’s just me and Socksworth this time!
He raises his right hand to show the sock puppet that he always has with him to the camera.
TINY TIM BUSCH
Anyway, big night tonight! Both me and Socksworth are so excited! We and my brothers are going to be wrasslin' the big guy and the pretty lady for the UPRISING tag team titles! The Three Buscheketeers will be champions tonight. Isn’t that just exciting?
Tiny flashes a wide smile to the camera.
TINY TIM BUSCH
See, when Tommy told us we would be coming to wrassle I was so happy. Ever since I was small we used to sit in front of the telly at home, watching wrasslin' with Papa. And I never thought I would be one of those guys one day. Papa is gone now, but I’d like to think that whenever I am out there wrasslin', a boy just like me is watching with his papa, cheering me on just like I cheered my heroes. And Socksworth says nobody gets cheered as much as the champion. And I understand. Even though the champions were sometimes really bad men… But it made me cheer even harder when my hero was wrasslin' the bad guy.
He stops to think for a bit, which looks like silently conferring with Socksworth, and the puppet actually nods to him before he speaks up again.
TINY TIM BUSCH
But the fans of UPRISING will have so much to cheer for. Because the big guy and the pretty lady are not bad guys. They’re tough. Like REEEAAAALLLYYYY tough. But I know that the Three Buschketeers can out-tough them. Socksworth says that if we want to be champions we have to be tougher than the toughies and smarter than the smarties. Tommy is the smartest person I know, and Sammy is the toughest person I know. I am the heroiest person I know. Socksworth says that it is tradition to say all kinds of mean things about your opponents, make threats and promises but I don’t want to. I am the good guy here. And when all those little boys and girls in their living rooms cheer for me… I will wrassle with my brothers and we will be champions!
Tiny stands up and gives a goofy thumbs-up pose.
TINY TIM BUSCH
My name is Tiny, this is Socksworth and I will see you all in the ring!
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
TAG TEAM TOURNAMENT FINALS
OBLIVION vs THE BROTHERS BUSCH
The match starts with Mac Bane, who has to all but tie Amber to the corner with the tag rope, insistent she take some extra time to heal after taking the worst of it with their involvement in the street fight earlier. Across the ring, Big Sam Busch has stepped in to meet the Texan head-on. As soon as the bell rings, Loverboy sets to getting the crowd into it, even with them already on their feet and awaiting the impact. They don’t have to wait long as Big Sam and Mac Bane lock up! Mac gets Sam in a side headlock, whipping him into the ropes! Sam rebounds and goes for a shoulder tackle! MAC DOESN’T MOVE AN INCH! The two hosses jaw off, prompting Mac to charge the ropes and bounce off, coming in with his own shoulder tackle...SAM BUSCH DOESNT MOVE AN INCH!! The two stare each other down as the fans come alive! They nod, bumping fists before tying up! Mac manages to drive Sam into the ropes, whipping him across to the other side. Tiny Tim gets a blind tag and Sam ducks a Mac Bane clothesline! Tiny catches him with a shoulder tackle and the Texan is down!
The Brothers Busch pull the Texan up, before spiking his head back down with a double DDT! As they get up Amber Ryan hops into the ring and charges the two, catching Tiny in the jaw with a sucker punch before turning to Sam Busch and driving him to the ropes with a flurry of rights and lefts! She backs up, and charges forth with a leaping crossbody that sends both Sam and Amber out of the ring and to the floor with a sickening THUD! Mac Bane crawls to the ropes, looking out to check on his fiancée but Loverboy makes him pay as he charges at Mac and nails him in the back of the head with a knee! Loverboy pulls Mac to his feet and begins driving stiff uppercuts into Mac’s midsection. He straightens him up and nails him with a headbutt! Loverboy is showing that he is indeed related to Sam with these vicious blows! He drives Mac into a corner and lays into him over and over again until Mac Bane is in a seated position! Tiny Tim backs up, playing up the crowd with the help of Socksworth before charging in and nailing him with ALLEY OOP before scooping him up for a PUT A SOCK IN IT!
Tiny Tim pulls Mac up again but before he can go for the pin, Amber Ryan has rolled back in and leaps upon the gentle giant’s back, locking in a bulldog choke! But not for long! Sam Busch has never missed a good fight! He rips Amber off of his baby brother, and whips her into the corner and into Mac Bane who has gotten to his feet! Sam snatches Loverboy as he enters the fray and whips him into Amber, sandwiching her between Mac and Loverboy! NO COMPLAINTS FROM LOVERBOY! Until BIG SAM CHARGES IN AND SPLASHES ON THE WHOLE PILE! Mac Bane collapses after having over 600 pounds squished into him. Tiny Tim throws Amber out of the corner into Sam who goes for a clothesline but Amber Ryan doesn’t die! She ducks under and turns Sam Busch around – ORIGINAL SIN!! Big Sam’s head is spiked into the mat and he rolls out of the ring! Amber Ryan gets to her feet and turns around to Tiny Tim who kicks her in the gut, and nails her with a powerbomb! Tiny gets to his feet slowly, and shepherds Amber Ryan out of the ring with his boot, looking genuinely remorseful. He turns around to MAC BANE EXPLODING OUT OF THE CORNER WITH A SPEAR THAT NEARLY CUTS HIM IN HALF! IT'S THE BAR!! MAC BANE HOOKS BOTH OF TINY TIM'S LEGS!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL) AND NEW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS: OBLIVION
CUT TO:
INT. ELDORADO CASINO -- BACKSTAGE
The corridor that leads to the locker rooms is deserted when LUTHER THUNDER steps into view, followed closely by his wife ESME. The UPRISING championship rests proudly draped over one broad shoulder and he reaches up to adjust it minutely as he starts off towards the gorilla position, pausing when he hears the sound of a voice behind him.
??
Hey, champ.
Slowly, Luther turns around to find Michael Marou standing a few feet away, already in his street clothes and fresh from a shower. The evidence of the night's exertions and disappointment are written all over his face but he manages a wry smirk as he takes a step closer.
MICHAEL MAROU
Do me a favor.
Thunder cocks his head, glancing sidelong at his wife before answering.
LUTHER THUNDER
What might that be?
MICHAEL MAROU
Retain. Come hell or high water, I'm gonna make my way into that Elimination Chamber. I'm gonna be the one to take it off you.
A wry chuckle passes the lips of the champion as he turns away, almost dismissive even though there's a definite spark in his eyes.
LUTHER THUNDER
You're welcome to try.
UPRISING CHAMPIONSHIP
LUTHER THUNDER (C) vs "THE FIREBIRD" IGNIS
The Champion and the Number One Contender stand on opposite sides of the ring. Neil Rana holds the UPRISING CHAMPIONSHIP above his head to the pop of the fans. On the outside, Esme Thunder claps and points to her husband. Rana walks to Ignis, presenting the belt to the challenger before heading to Luther and presenting the belt to its current owner. He holds the belt above his head once more and then hands it out to the ring announcer, calling for the bell!
Ignis and Luther circle one another in the ring for a moment before going for a lockup. The two seem locked in place before Luther hauls back and launches Ignis across the ring! The champ stands there with a confident smirk as he flexes for the crowd. Ignis is on her ass, staring up at him with a fiery and determined look on her face. She gets to her feet and they begin to circle one another. Luther motions for a test of strength once again, and Ignis moves in but it’s a fake out! She kicks Luther hard in the gut and takes him down with a DDT that she transitions to a choke and body scissors and the crowd is behind her 100%! The ref confers with Luther who almost smacks Rana, waving him away. Luther then begins to push up with his free arm but Ignis is relentless! Luther is on his feet but Ignis keeps the body scissors locked in! Luther charges into a corner and smashes Ignis into the turnbuckle! She doesn’t relent! He backs up and smashes again! And again! Again! Finally, Ignis lets the hold go, and Luther pays her a stiff right hand for her insolence! He then lifts her up to the top rope, and follows up. SUPERPLEX BY THE CHAMP! HE GOES FOR THE PIN!
ONE!
TWO!
IGNIS KICKS OUT!
Luther pulls Ignis up with him; he lifts her and nails her with a thunderous powerbomb! BUT HE'S NOT DONE! Luther lifts her up, and slams Ignis back down! HE'S STILL NOT DONE! The Champ lifts the challenger and goes for another powerbomb but Ignis reverses it! Luther is launched with a hurricanrana! Luther rolls out of the ring to regroup, receiving a quick little pep talk from his wife. Ignis takes a moment to rest and recover from the series of high impact moves and then sees to think better of it, following Luther out. She pays him a kick to the back of the knee and nailing him with a bulldog to the unforgiving floor! Ignis leaps upon Luther then, and begins raining down shots to the back of his head before locking in a camel clutch on the outside! Esme is screaming for the ref to do something but Rana shrugs and just yells for the competitors to get back into the ring! Once satisfied, Ignis releases the hold on Luther and rolls him into the ring. She follows and goes to lock in the Burning Embers but Luther manages to get away, scrambling to the bottom rope and latching onto it. Ignis steps back, allowing Luther to get to his feet.
Once more, the two circle each other. There is no grappling or test of strength as suddenly Ignis leaps at Luther and begins peppering him with rights and lefts! The champ responds in kind, throwing thunderous forearms at the challengers head! Ignis ducks under a blow suddenly, and catches Luther in the throat with a hard chop!! Luther grabs at his throat, backing up and Ignis is on him seeing her opportunity! She nails him with a few more stiff shots to the side of the head before kicking him in the midsection! SHE HITS INTO THE FIRE! THE UNPRETTIER!! IGNIS ROLLS LUTHER OVER AND PINS HIM!
ONE!
TWO!
THR--NO!! NO!! LUTHER THUNDER KICKS OUT!
Ignis sits up, looking stunned. Luther rolls on his side, still grasping his throat and coughing. The camera does catch a dangerous look that crosses his face, though. Ignis gets to her feet, signaling one more. She lifts Luther up and nails him with another right hand for good measure! She then goes for another INTO THE FIRE...BUT NO! LUTHER REVERSES AS HE STRAIGHTENS UP! HE REVERSES THE UNPRETTIER INTO A VERTEBREAKER, CRASHING IGNIS’S HEAD INTO THE MAT AND COMPRESSING HER SPINE! THE CHAMP GOES TO PIN THE CHALLENGER!
ONE!
TWO!
NO!!! IGNIS KICKS OUT!!!
Now it's Luther’s turn to look stunned as he lays on his back, staring up at the lights along with Ignis. Slowly, the two get to their feet and lock eyes, their faces turning sour as they resolve to end this now! Luther fires a right hand that rocks Ignis! She fires one back that sends Luther back a couple of steps! He fires back! Ignis fires back! The crowd is going nuts! Ignis swings a wild haymaker, but Luther ducks! Ignis turns—THUNDERSTRUCK! THE SUPERKICK CATCHES HER RIGHT IN THE FACE BUT LUTHER ISNT DONE! HE LIFTS IGNIS UP AND NAILS HER WITH THE SWORD OF DAMOCLES! HE COLLAPSES INTO A PIN!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL) AND STILL UPRISING CHAMPION: LUTHER THUNDER
??
Hey, champ.
Slowly, Luther turns around to find Michael Marou standing a few feet away, already in his street clothes and fresh from a shower. The evidence of the night's exertions and disappointment are written all over his face but he manages a wry smirk as he takes a step closer.
MICHAEL MAROU
Do me a favor.
Thunder cocks his head, glancing sidelong at his wife before answering.
LUTHER THUNDER
What might that be?
MICHAEL MAROU
Retain. Come hell or high water, I'm gonna make my way into that Elimination Chamber. I'm gonna be the one to take it off you.
A wry chuckle passes the lips of the champion as he turns away, almost dismissive even though there's a definite spark in his eyes.
LUTHER THUNDER
You're welcome to try.
CUT TO:
INT. THE SILVER STATE BALLROOM -- THE RING
UPRISING CHAMPIONSHIP
LUTHER THUNDER (C) vs "THE FIREBIRD" IGNIS
The Champion and the Number One Contender stand on opposite sides of the ring. Neil Rana holds the UPRISING CHAMPIONSHIP above his head to the pop of the fans. On the outside, Esme Thunder claps and points to her husband. Rana walks to Ignis, presenting the belt to the challenger before heading to Luther and presenting the belt to its current owner. He holds the belt above his head once more and then hands it out to the ring announcer, calling for the bell!
Ignis and Luther circle one another in the ring for a moment before going for a lockup. The two seem locked in place before Luther hauls back and launches Ignis across the ring! The champ stands there with a confident smirk as he flexes for the crowd. Ignis is on her ass, staring up at him with a fiery and determined look on her face. She gets to her feet and they begin to circle one another. Luther motions for a test of strength once again, and Ignis moves in but it’s a fake out! She kicks Luther hard in the gut and takes him down with a DDT that she transitions to a choke and body scissors and the crowd is behind her 100%! The ref confers with Luther who almost smacks Rana, waving him away. Luther then begins to push up with his free arm but Ignis is relentless! Luther is on his feet but Ignis keeps the body scissors locked in! Luther charges into a corner and smashes Ignis into the turnbuckle! She doesn’t relent! He backs up and smashes again! And again! Again! Finally, Ignis lets the hold go, and Luther pays her a stiff right hand for her insolence! He then lifts her up to the top rope, and follows up. SUPERPLEX BY THE CHAMP! HE GOES FOR THE PIN!
ONE!
TWO!
IGNIS KICKS OUT!
Luther pulls Ignis up with him; he lifts her and nails her with a thunderous powerbomb! BUT HE'S NOT DONE! Luther lifts her up, and slams Ignis back down! HE'S STILL NOT DONE! The Champ lifts the challenger and goes for another powerbomb but Ignis reverses it! Luther is launched with a hurricanrana! Luther rolls out of the ring to regroup, receiving a quick little pep talk from his wife. Ignis takes a moment to rest and recover from the series of high impact moves and then sees to think better of it, following Luther out. She pays him a kick to the back of the knee and nailing him with a bulldog to the unforgiving floor! Ignis leaps upon Luther then, and begins raining down shots to the back of his head before locking in a camel clutch on the outside! Esme is screaming for the ref to do something but Rana shrugs and just yells for the competitors to get back into the ring! Once satisfied, Ignis releases the hold on Luther and rolls him into the ring. She follows and goes to lock in the Burning Embers but Luther manages to get away, scrambling to the bottom rope and latching onto it. Ignis steps back, allowing Luther to get to his feet.
Once more, the two circle each other. There is no grappling or test of strength as suddenly Ignis leaps at Luther and begins peppering him with rights and lefts! The champ responds in kind, throwing thunderous forearms at the challengers head! Ignis ducks under a blow suddenly, and catches Luther in the throat with a hard chop!! Luther grabs at his throat, backing up and Ignis is on him seeing her opportunity! She nails him with a few more stiff shots to the side of the head before kicking him in the midsection! SHE HITS INTO THE FIRE! THE UNPRETTIER!! IGNIS ROLLS LUTHER OVER AND PINS HIM!
ONE!
TWO!
THR--NO!! NO!! LUTHER THUNDER KICKS OUT!
Ignis sits up, looking stunned. Luther rolls on his side, still grasping his throat and coughing. The camera does catch a dangerous look that crosses his face, though. Ignis gets to her feet, signaling one more. She lifts Luther up and nails him with another right hand for good measure! She then goes for another INTO THE FIRE...BUT NO! LUTHER REVERSES AS HE STRAIGHTENS UP! HE REVERSES THE UNPRETTIER INTO A VERTEBREAKER, CRASHING IGNIS’S HEAD INTO THE MAT AND COMPRESSING HER SPINE! THE CHAMP GOES TO PIN THE CHALLENGER!
ONE!
TWO!
NO!!! IGNIS KICKS OUT!!!
Now it's Luther’s turn to look stunned as he lays on his back, staring up at the lights along with Ignis. Slowly, the two get to their feet and lock eyes, their faces turning sour as they resolve to end this now! Luther fires a right hand that rocks Ignis! She fires one back that sends Luther back a couple of steps! He fires back! Ignis fires back! The crowd is going nuts! Ignis swings a wild haymaker, but Luther ducks! Ignis turns—THUNDERSTRUCK! THE SUPERKICK CATCHES HER RIGHT IN THE FACE BUT LUTHER ISNT DONE! HE LIFTS IGNIS UP AND NAILS HER WITH THE SWORD OF DAMOCLES! HE COLLAPSES INTO A PIN!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
WINNER (VIA PINFALL) AND STILL UPRISING CHAMPION: LUTHER THUNDER
Thunder rolls to his feet, standing over Ignis for a long moment, looking down at her with a blank expression on his face. Finally, he shakes his head and shrugs off the official's attempt to raise his hand. The last image is Luther Thunder taking his championship belt back from his wife on the outside and draping it over his shoulder as the credits start to roll.
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© UPRISING 2021
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EPILOGUE
CUT TO:
EXT. ELDORADO CASINO -- PARKING LOT
A live feed from an unknown source captures the backlot of the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino. The large expanse of asphalt is mostly empty save a few vehicles. There are lamp posts arranged in a grid, spaced out every thirty feet, and each one is casting down a circle of dingy yellow light on the blacktop pavement.
FOCUS ON: the exit door, which swings open on rusted hinges. Out walks Jackson with a bag slung over his shoulder. He immediately squints at the camera’s light and holds a hand up.
JACKSON
What the fuck? Get that out of my face. The show’s over. Go the fuck home.
He reaches out and shoves the anonymous paparazzo back but the operator isn’t deterred. The camera swings around behind the UPRISING owner and follows closely, aimed just over his shoulder, as he walks with a heavy gait. Ahead of him is the only vehicle parked in the lot—a black, late-model Ford F150. It’s sitting under the light of a lamp post. He fishes his keys out of his pocket while cursing under his breath because of the camera following behind him.
As he gets to the truck, he pulls the door open, throws his bag in and climbs into the seat. The door shuts and the camera moves up next to the doors. Jackson sighs as he puts the key into the ignition and turns it. The engine sputters but fails to turn over. He tries again with the same result.
JACKSON
God damnit.
He reaches for his bag and fishes out his phone. As he’s typing something, the camera operator breaks their silence.
OPERATOR
You reap what you sow.
Jackson stops typing and looks out the window at the person.
JACKSON
What did you just say?
OPERATOR
(yelling)
YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW!
The operator bursts out with a high pitched cackle. Jackson puts his shoulder into the door, thrusting it outward and nearly knocking the operator off their feet. The frame jumbles around for a moment before refocusing on the Dark Horse just as puts his boots on the ground and slams the door shut behind him.
JACKSON
What did you do to my truck?
His soup-bone hand shoots out and grabs the operator.
OPERATOR
It wasn't me!
JACKSON
Then who did it?
The operator’s hand moves into view and slowly extends a finger. Jackson turns, following it’s direction, as does the camera, to find another person as they step out of the darkness and under the light of a lamp post. They’re dressed in a black cassock with the same venetian devil mask Legion wears to the ring, matching the countless fans in attendance tonight who donned the same outfit. The shining blade of a knife juts out from their clenched hand.
JACKSON
For fuck's sake. I'm not scared. What did he put you assholes up to?
He starts to walk toward the masked person but stops after two steps. In the next circle of light another Legion look-alike steps into view, and another after that, and another, and another, until a dozen duplicates emerge and take their place under the spotlights. Each one is holding a different melee weapon, from baseball bats to sledgehammers.
KA-CHUNK. The lights flicker off as the power is cut. Darkness spreads across the lot. In the distance the lights of downtown Reno twinkle like electric stars. The camera operator pulls back slowly, letting the entire scene fill the frame.
The Nameless disciples begin walking toward Jackson, slow at first, but their pace soon quickens. The Dark Horse takes several cautious steps backward as he looks around.
JACKSON
Fuck this.
He turns and starts to run. The Nameless give chase, darting through the lot and past his car, following him. The camera swings around and ZOOMS in to record Jackson as he crosses the tramway and disappears into the RV Park.
The Nameless stop and turn their attention to the truck. They raise their weapons and begin beating the hell out of the vehicle, smashing in the sides and busting the mirrors and windshield. The knife wielder goes from tire to tire, jabbing the blade into the rubber and releasing a squeal of air.
CAMERA OPERATOR
Mr. Jackson, this is your only warning.
A Nameless has a bottle of lighter fluid and is squirting it all around the interior through the busted window.
CAMERA OPERATOR
You don’t need to believe as we do.
The Nameless has a book of matches. They strike one and use it to light the whole pack. Then, once the flame is steady, they toss it into the truck’s cab. Fire erupts and quickly spreads to engulf the interior. Black smoke billows out of the vehicle and rolls up into the night sky.
CAMERA OPERATOR
You just need to stay out of his way.
FADE TO BLACK.
QUICKIE RESULTS:
KENZIE vs DIAMOND CALDWELL
HAYDEN TRIGGS & SIOBAHN MCLEOD vs THE RING CREW
MATT STONE vs TYSON DEUCE
THE GEM STONES vs THE CRUSH (NO CONTEST)
CRYSTAL ZDUNICH vs G.O.D.
LEGION vs DON TIRRI
SWINE FLEW vs DAUGHTERS OF DARKNESS
SATIVA NEVAEH vs JC (NO CONTEST)
CHRIS MOSH vs SAMANTHA TOLSON vs MICHAEL MAROU vs KENDRICK KROSS
OBLIVION vs THE BROTHERS BUSCH
LUTHER THUNDER vs "THE FIREBIRD" IGNIS