Posted by EPIC Producers on Jun 8, 2020 22:20:31 GMT -5
The Gold Standard
The lights go out, and for a few seconds the entire arena is cast in total darkness. Then two spotlights come up, one on each side of the entrance, as a sixteen-person choir files into the arena in gold and green choir robes, eight going to each side. Once they settle into place, a piano starts to play a slow rendition of Savior by Skillet as the choir sings a slow, beautiful translation of the song. Just as the song comes to an end a series of words start to flash across the video screen above the entrance.
“The Savior”
“The Feature Attraction”
“The Unifier”
“The Heir Apparent”
“The Crown Prince”
Then all goes dark again when Avery Watt’s “A Cut Above” queues up and the fans in the know start to reign down cheers. “I Am Noah” with Noah’s logo pops on the screen. Noah steps into the arena decked out with a custom made dark green David Lance suit on, with his Berluti oxford shoes. On his left wrist is a magnificently shined Rolex watch. Right behind Noah is the imposing figure of Devilin “Devil” Drake, Noah’s hired muscle. The banned MMA superstar is dressed out in his very own David Lance suit, this one navy blue, and a pair of blue suede Berluti shoes. His long black hair is pulled up in a man-bun, his black beard combed out.
The duo makes their way to the ring while Noah relishes in the reaction he garners. After sliding into the ring, Noah grabs a microphone from the canvas, taps the end of it with his right hand, then addresses EPIC.
Noah Field: Thank you, thank you, I appreciate the sentiment. It feels good to be back in a wrestling ring again after taking some time away. And apparently time away does make the heart fonder, because listen to you all cheer me for the first time in my career.
The crowd pops loud.
Noah Field: Now I could come out here, and beat around the bush, but let’s get right to the point of things. I surprised you all, didn’t I? I sign the largest contract in EPIC history, debut at Pay Per View, fight the man Robert Quinn can’t stand. I walk out with this big man at my side. You don’t have to grandstand me; I know my reputation. I know what you all immediately thought. I’d win at all costs, use every dirty trick in the book, and then after I won, I’d unleash the big man here and tear apart Keeton using the numbers game. I get it, that’s been my MO my whole career. It’s won me championships, got me huge pay days, and put my name in the marquee. It’s what I’ve come to be known for. I can’t blame you one bit. I’ve earned it. But now I’m here to earn your respect and to earn your cheers. That’s what last week was about at Mayhem. There just comes a time in a man’s life when he’s at a crossroads, and as I pondered my return, that crossroads came, and I said to myself, “self, I want to change things this time around.” So let me start by asking JC Keeton to come out here.
Nothing happens for a few awkward seconds then TBD by TBD starts to play and the fans pop loud as JC Keeton steps into the arena to a loud, thunderous applause. He makes his way down to the ring and slips between the ropes. He grabs a microphone off of the canvas and starts to speak, but Noah holds his hand up.
Noah Field: Hold on, let me say something first.
JC nods his head and puts the microphone at his side.
Noah Field: I’m going to be perfectly honest with you JC. I’ve sat at home and watched as your partner turned on you. I’ve seen firsthand how Quinn has done wrong by you, and listened to each and every week as these fans cheer you more and more, and it’s made me jealous, because in my seven-year career, I’ve never been cheered. Now I know, I know, the man who lives by the motto of Field Envy, being envious of another? It’s a sin, and for that, I’m sorry. But it made me reflect on myself, and look back over my career and the choices I’ve made. It made me think, maybe it’s not just about being the best. Maybe it’s not just about being on the marquee. Maybe it is about these fans. So I made a decision.
Noah sighs and smirks.
Noah Field: That I wanted to show just how easy it is to get these sheep to cheer for you. I mean really? All I had to do was shake his hand and you went nuts and just assumed I was here for YOU. No, I came here to make a statement.
Noah looks at Devil.
Noah Field: Devil…
Devil Drake hits a hard right hand to the ear of JC as he buckles, throwing off his equilibrium. Devil smiles and holds his hand up to show the crowd a pair of brass knuckles as the crowd turns completely on Noah. Noah just laughs as Devil picks JC up off the mat, puts him on his shoulders, then hits a big spin-out slam. Noah then starts to lay the boots to JC as Devil rolls out of the ring and jerks the chair away from the time keeper's table and tosses it over the top rope. Devil then sets the chair up in the middle of the ring and feeds JC to Noah, who hooks the arms and then puts him face first through the chair with Field Envy. Noah smirks and grabs a microphone.
Noah Field: You’re welcome...and stay tuned, because I’m going to bring you all the gold standard of EPIC.
Noah drops the microphone to a loud ruckus of boos and walks out of the arena.
Ryden Lauffeyson vs. Angelica Ruiz-Meyer
Bridget Lewis-Killings: After that heinous display we switch things over to in ring action as our first match of the night pits Ryden Lauffeyson against Angelica Ruiz-Meyer. Angelica is looking to get back to her winning ways while Ryden hopes to continue his. Only one of these stars will be able to make their statement here tonight so let’s take a look at the highlights and see what went down.
The match begins as soon as Ryden flings his coat to the ring attendant and charges like a hungry wolf towards Angelica, unleashing a flurry of fast blows and kicks followed by a short-arm lariat, taking the woman to the mat. Grinning viciously, Ryden stalks to a corner and crouches down, watching Ruiz-Meyer with a predator’s gaze, waiting for her to stand and look his way before launching an authoritative Helgi’s Thrust. For reasons of his own, he slaps the already defeated woman into the RagnaLök, causing her to scream in pain and tap wildly!
Bridget Lewis-Killings: In what was quite the dominant performance, Ryden Lauffeyson gets the win over Angelica in 3 minutes and 56 seconds.
Wishes
Cameras cut to a darkened corner of the backstage area where we see the trio of Eli Hix, Lenny, and Terra Mason. Terra is playing with a lone quarter, flipping it a few times, before snatching it in the air and throwing it to the side. An eerie smile comes across her face before a playful frown.
Terra Mason: I can’t help but be both happy and sad on this night. The joy comes from getting another chance to play with my friend Daniel in the ring. The sadness comes from the fact that my dear friend Charlie got hurt by my gift when I gave it to him so he can win the day along with me. Neither of us really won and now we’re here hoping that my noggin withstands the knocking long enough so that I can triumph and face the white devil for the EPIC World Championship. If only I were a fortune teller, I would let the masses know what’s to come. All I can do though is my very best and see if it comes true. So here are my wishes for tonight and the near future.
Taking a deep breath, Terra’s expression changes a few times before she smiles once again and continues.
Terra Mason: I wish that the stars align with my skills and I’m able to come out of this match victorious. I wish that Daniel will still be up to playing some more because I have a lot I wish to do with that game. I wish that I end up giving to the white devil the best match he’s ever had and ending it as champion. Lastly, and most importantly, I wish that soon my friend Charlie will find his voice again and seek out not only the one who took it, but those who don’t truly stand at his side like we do. You see, I’m not too fond of fake friends and I know they’re around. So once I take care of my task tonight, I think we should cast the false faces into the void. If of course that’s okay with you...
A simple nod is all she receives but the gesture brings a huge smile to her face. Clapping her hands a few times she clasps them together next to her right cheek before lowering and separating them at her sides once again.
Terra Mason: Wonderful! With this one coming true, maybe my other wishes will too! Maybe I am a fortune teller after all.
Pondering the statement further, Terra’s gaze turns into a creepy, distant one, the scene fading soon after.
This Is Punk
A vignette starts to play. Spray painted graffiti words “This is Punk” pops on the screen first and the fans in attendance and in the know cheer. Then it shows Iggy Clash hitting a reverse STO he calls Social Outclash on an opponent at an indy show in LA. Then it cuts away and shows Rosie Sinn hit a low sweep of the leg while at the same time Flip Haze hits a big boot, twisting the body in unnatural positions. Back to Iggy Clash, he’s shown hitting top rope frog splash variation he calls Hedgecore. Back to Rosie, she’s seen springboard 450 splash. Then to Flip, he’s shown hitting a pop-up clothesline he calls Stage Dive. Then to all three. Iggy hits a superkick, the opponent falls back toward flip, who whips him into the...finish it out.
A voice is heard from the back then saying over the pa system; “Are you ready to get punk!!” Then the legendary tune “Rise Above” by Black Flag plays and the fans who already know of Omaha Hardcore pop loud. All three; Iggy Clash, Rosie Sinn, and Flip Haze, come charging through the curtain on into the arena. They run to both sides of the stage and the ramp and start waving their hands back and forth and jumping up and down as they try to work the crowd into a frenzy. All three follow that by running to the ring, sliding under the rope and jumping to the top turnbuckle in three of the four corners and playing to the crowd a while longer. Then they grab mics from the canvas.
Iggy Clash: Hello Chicago…are you Ready. That’s. Get. Punk!!
The Las Vegas crowd laughs and cheers.
Iggy Clash: Welcome to the punk show…because we are…
He holds the microphone out and the crowd in the know about.
Crowd: OMAHA HARDCORE!!
Iggy Clash: Thank you Chicago, we really do love you! So we have a story to tell you. We were leaving an independent show a few weeks ago where we, as we tend to do, stole the show, because that’s the punk thing to do when my cell phone rang. It went a little something like this.
Iggy Clash: (Throwing his voice) Is this Iggy Clash?
Iggy Clash: This is the Igster.
Iggy Clash: (Throwing his voice) I’m Joe Blow Nobody, talent relations at…
Rosie interrupts him.
Rosie Sinn: You’re doing it wrong. It was on speaker, I heard it. It wasn’t a man, it was a woman. Let me do it.
Rosie Sinn: (Throwing her voice) This is Plain Jane Nobody, talent relations at EPIC. I noticed you guys haven’t been with a company on live TV in like…31 months.
Iggy Clash: That’s a pretty accurate number. That’s pretty punk if you.
Rosie Sinn: (Throwing her voice) What can I say, you guys are awesome. You’re the best trio in wrestling. So I’m calling because we are about to kick off our tag team division and we don’t have any teams as EPIC and punk as Omaha Hardcore. And of course you’ll be a huge singles star. Wanna join?
Iggy Clash: Sure, why not…and now, here we are!!
Flip Haze: So we signed that bitch they sent us an’ here we are.
Iggy Clash: And EPIC is about to get punk!!
EPIC Tag Team Championship
Kaiju Krushers (c.) vs. V.I.
Bridget Lewis-Killings: Following the continuation of Ryden’s roll and the interesting words from one of our potential World Title contenders, we move on to our featured championship match of the evening. The newly crowned Tag Team Champions of Hayato Sagara and Rain Nighthawk, the Kaiju Krushers, take on fellow stablemates and an impressive team in Celina del Añil and Dizzie of V.I., who while looking great in the fatal four way tag, were unable to secure the belts for themselves. Now that this is strictly between the two teams, will V.I. be able to win the gold or will the Krushers continue to dominate the tag team scene here at EPIC? Let’s find out.
The bell sounds to officially start the match, both teams staring down one another before Hayato and Dizzie choose to get things started. Hayato extends his chin inviting Dizzie to hit him which brings a smirk to her face before she lays in a stiff right hand. The cameras pick up Hayato mouthing not bad before the two just go at it with a strike exchange. Both competitors end up staggered after a while, trading the strikes for submission attempts, with Dizzie having a bit of an easier time with counters. Hayato doesn’t back down though and is eventually able to catch Dizzie off guard with a Bridging Dragon Suplex for a nearfall. He takes control for a bit until Dizzie hits a Spinning Back Suplex. They each tag in their partners for a pop. Rain and Celina begin their back and forth, Rain eventually taking control, using his experience to keep on Celina. He hits a Double Underhook Facebuster for a close two count. However as he goes to finish things, Celine is able to spin out and nail the Angelic Tribute (Snap Single Underhook DDT) out of desperation, too exhausted to go for the cover.
Both Celina and Rain look to tag in their partners when suddenly Hayato and Dizzie are pulled down from the apron. The camera gets a better look showing that the assailants are Killian and Lynx of Asylum as Damien Maddox looks on from afar. Hayato and Dizzie are both tossed about, into the turnbuckle, the guardrails and steps before being decked with chairs to take them out of the equation. The two then slide into the ring, attacking the recovering half of the tag team contest laying in some stiff strikes and chair shots before looking over to Maddox who points at the example to be made tonight. With Rain tossed out of the ring by Lynx, the mighty Killian hoists up Celina like she weighs nothing at all and sets her up in a Powerbomb position. Lynx then climbs up to the top and the duo hit the Splatter Control (Powerbomb/Top Rope Dropkick Combo), Maddox looking somewhat pleased. The Asylum leader then makes his way into the ring, taking a moment to look down at Celina who is clearly out of it. He then snatches the young woman up by her hair and delivers the Cerebrum (Death Valley Driver), now seeming satisfied with the handiwork done. The feed quickly switches back to Bridget in the studio who doesn’t look too happy with what transpired.
Bridget Lewis-Killings: What started off as a great match ends in dramatic fashion as Asylum causes a no contest attacking both teams here tonight. It’s a shame we won’t know which team would have won but we have to take you back to the action as it appears that Asylum isn’t quite done just yet.
So It Begins
Damien Maddox is shown walking backstage with the rest of Asylum after their attack on the tag team championship match. Maddox says something to Killian, who grabs the camera man and violently jerks him close to Maddox with the camera in his face.
Damien Maddox: People are weak by nature. It’s a fact, there is no debating that. What you just saw was a statement of the intent of Asylum. What this place calls violence is anything but, it’s rather mundane and tedious. I suppose I could have made my intentions known by going directly to the source, but what fun is that? It’s, as I’ve said before, rather cliched. So, I did something far more interesting, I went after those closest. That was a message to you, Drake Connors. I want your blood on my hands. I want to take what you hold close to you, and until I get it, I’ll make all those around you suffer. Think about that when you look at what I did to your precious little daughter.
Killian steps close, wearing a sadistic crimson bandaged mask. Damien reaches up and runs his hand over the head of Killian
.
Damien Maddox: Maybe next time I’ll unleash the Man of Many Faces on her. He’s got quite the fascination with her. My, my, the things he could do with her. As for you, Ryan Castle, something else has my attention, you’ve already come to bore me. So tonight, meet me in the ring, I’ll give you your chance to sink or swim, the question is, which will you do?
Trillion Dollar Declaration
The scene switches over to a luxurious estate, showcasing the grandiose mansion before taking the viewers poolside. As the camera gets closer it spots Angel Kash lounging by her large pool in a gold bikini and matching gold sunglasses. As the haughty Princess sips her drink, she looks at the camera and gives it her trillion-dollar smile. She then begins to speak in her trademark bitchy and snobby tone.
Angel Kash: I know you must all be so disappointed that the highlight of your nights, The Trillion Dollar Princess is not at the arena. But after my amazing victory over that anime reject Super Tiger, I needed some time to myself, a present to me because I am well worth it. And honestly you peasants don’t deserve to see me in person.
Angel chuckles in an arrogant manner, amused by her own words. She fluffs her hair smugly before taking another long sip of her drink, and then snaps her fingers. Immediately a servant of hers comes up and she begins speaking to him in a harsh tone.
Angel Kash: So question, did Super Tiger ever have a chance against me?
Servant: Well, I do like her. I thought she fought hard. I mean it took…
Angel held her hand up and smile soon came across her face.
Angel Kash: That's enough. I don’t pay you to talk, no one wants to hear you anyway. But as hard as she fights for the little people of the world like yourself and the peasants watching on Amazon Prime, she couldn’t get the job done. Now on your knees.
The servant stands there confused and he is soon yelled at louder by Angel Kash.
Angel Kash: Yes, on your knees, and move at a glacial pace because you know how much that impresses me. NOW ON YOUR DAMN KNEES!
The servant does what she says and goes to his knees in front of Angel, who looks at him in a bitchy fashion. She takes what's left of her drink before dumping it over his head, laughing at him.
Angel Kash: Now are you done being stupid? If you are, get me another drink and make this quick if you don’t want to be fired. Not like Super Tiger would hire you or anyone really. So get on it peasant.
The man leaves quickly as Angel gives a real evil smirk to the camera impressed with her own actions. She lets out a chuckle before she speaks again, motioning for another servant.
Angel Kash: You saw what happened to him?
She says yelling at a young girl, who begins to speak, but she cuts her off.
Angel Kash: Now, I don’t pay you to speak understand? Now take that and fan me it’s hot.
Angel points to a giant leaf. The young girl picks it up, and begins fanning her with a nervous and scared look on her face. Angel then eyes the camera with a smirk.
Angel Kash: See that first one was an idiot and thought for one second he had the right to say whatever he wants to me. I mean does he know who he is talking to? This outrage is pathetic. Oh boo hoo Super Tiger’s last match and she was robbed by Angel Kash oh boo hoo. Not my fault her jaw was made of glass and I knocked her out. Like seriously one shot and I covered her one, two and three. Doing exactly what I said I would. Something that none of you would know anything about.
Angel rolls her eyes as the first servant comes with her drink. She takes it from him, sipping a little before stopping him from leaving.
Angel Kash: Oh by the way you’re fired buh bye. Security!
Soon security comes into the frame and escorts the man out who looks dejected as the woman who is anning Angel looks on in shock and horror. Angel gives her a sick smirk before looking back at the camera.
Angel Kash: Now that the trash has been taken out let’s talk EPIC. You’re looking at your soon to be Elite Champion. You see I came in and I took down your flavor of the month so bad that now she is gone. But Maverick you are holding something that I want and what I want, I get. It’s been that way since I was born. While I know you’re used to working your way to titles like a peasant, for me titles and accomplishments just come naturally.
Angel pauses for a moment with a bitchy chuckle before continuing.
Angel Kash: Trust me that time will come when I take that title from you. But my title win will happen on my time and it won’t happen on Chaos. Sorry but the people don’t deserve to see my crowning moment for free, or whatever Amazon costs, oh no. I’m going to cash in my shot at the next pay-per-view. Yes you poor people are going to have to try and rub enough pennies together to afford to watch me beat Maverick.
Angel smirks doing a mock tear towards the fans watching with a pouty face.
Angel Kash: And as far as me wrestling again? I am too good to be wrestling peasants on Chaos. I am the star and will be treated as the star from now on. The cameras are going to be on me, the spotlight on me, and guess what? Wrestling lowlifes like Onyx? Not on the list, sorry not sorry. So until next week Maverick and EPIC fans, I will see you soon. All hail the Trillion Dollar Princess.
Angel Kash then blows a smug kiss toward the camera, laughing as the scene fades to black.
EPIC World Title #1 Contenders Match
Terra Mason vs. Daniel Dream
Bridget Lewis-Killings: Now ladies and gentlemen we move ahead to a rematch from Mayhem: Devil’s Due which will see Terra Mason take on Daniel Dream for the number one contendership to the EPIC World Championship. Last we saw these two they were vying for the same chance but a scary tumble to the outside saw both competitors counted out. With that outcome no longer being a factor, just who will be able to secure the victory and move on to face El Diablo Blanco in the future? We’ll find out now.
A quick lockup gets things started with Terra going behind Dream, taking him to the mat with a few fast pins such as the O’Connor Roll, Backslide and Leg Trap Sunset Flip, her speed keeping her a few steps ahead. Following another nearfall with a Russian Leg Sweep, Daniel is finally able to turn things around with a Superman 64 Punch (Superman Punch) which gets him a two count. Dream maintains control getting more close calls with the Animal Crossing and Limit Breaker. However as he goes up top a second time, possibly looking for the Frogger Splash, Terra meets him up top, cutting him off with a stiff right forearm. Both stars trade shots while struggling to stay up top. Once again a knock of the noggins causes them to fall, this time inside the ring. With both wrestlers having their shoulders down, the referee has no choice but to count to three, the match once again leading to a draw. Before the official can ring the bell, the sound of “Reckless” by Lacuna Coil is heard on the sound system, causing the fans to pop. A few seconds later the co-owner of EPIC, Analicia Morales-Connors comes out, microphone in hand. She signals for her music to be cut off before addressing everyone.
Analicia Morales-Connors: Now, now, hang on just a damn minute here. While the match we all just witnessed was great, I don’t think these people came out here to have questions unanswered once again like they were at Mayhem. So I decided to come out here and state for the record that there will be no third match between Terra Mason and Daniel Dream to determine the number one contender to El Diablo Blanco. Instead we will have two top contenders face off against the champion at a later date in what will be a triple threat match! No disqualifications, no count outs, the only way to win is inside the ring by pinfall or submission! Now to all three of you, I wish you the best of luck.
Analicia quickly turns around and heads to the backstage area as the dazed pair of Dream and Terra look on pleased. The scene then quickly shifts back to Bridget in the studio.
Bridget Lewis-Killings: What a stunning conclusion to the match. Once again finding themselves at a draw, EPIC co-owner Analicia Morales-Connors took it upon herself to give both Terra and Daniel the title of number one contender. While the date of their shot has not been confirmed it will be going down as a triple threat match.
So Close Now
The camera’s feed shifts not to the backstage area, not to ringside, not even to an area surrounding the building fans have come to know as the Chaos Complex. Instead we see a room. While the walls are coated in pale blue paint, the items scattered about, some held up on shelves, indicate that this is the bedroom, the personal bedroom of someone. A small amount of time passes before we see a figure enter the room, slamming the door shut behind him. He takes a few steps forward and reveals himself as the EPIC Elite Champion Maverick. He looks refreshed, albeit a bit aggravated too, dressed in jogging shorts and a black wifebeater. He takes a look around before letting out a sigh, running his right hand through his hair.
Maverick: Ugh this is bullshit, I’m so fucking bored. I hate getting benched, stupid doctor dingbat. Everyone needs to get back already. I can’t even watch the damn show without getting pissed off.
A second sigh escapes the teenage champion who decides to kick back and relax on his bed, not exactly tired but hoping his mind would be put to ease in his favorite spot. After a few moments of silence, he hears a sound coming from behind the door.
“Squeak, squeak, squeak…”
The sound intrigues him, or annoys him, as he starts to get up. The smell of smoke catches his attention as he rushes to the door to open it. Standing right there is Skag, with six or more rats climbing over him, and a seventh sitting on his right shoulder.
Skag: Hallo…
Skag gives a wave to Maverick. He giggles in an eerie sort of way as he grins from ear to ear, his half painted face of a skull making it even more sinister. Maverick takes a moment to make sure that what he’s seeing isn’t just in his head and with that confirmation, his blood starts to boil. He takes a half step out the room, looking over at the rats cautiously before speaking up in a less than friendly tone.
Maverick: You have one fucking minute to tell me how the hell did you find out where I live and what the fuck you’re doing here. Not to mention, them.
Pointing out the rat that sits atop Skag’s shoulder, Mav can’t help but have the small hint of him being anxious surface, the feeling coated with his anger. Skag tilts his head to the side and studies this. He licks at his lips and then turns to look at Hekate the rat, and he makes a sad face.
Skag: Oh her? She is mein kinder. Yes she is. Shushhushushhh. Yes she is.
Skag drops his cigarette to the ground and stomps it out with his heel before pushing his way into Maverick’s room.
Skag: This place is not what I would expect from a champion. It’s… quaint. You must be saving up for your own home someday.
Skag takes a seat on a chair in the corner, and is careful as the babies on him begin to scatter around the room, with the exception of Hekate.
Skag: Ja meine Kinder, mach weiter und mach weiter. Sag hallo meine Schönheiten. (Yes my children, move on and go forward. Say hello my beauties.)
Maverick shakes his head in disbelief, his hands both balling up into fists. He comes close to banging the wall beside him but opts against it for the sake of the rats that are getting a bit too comfortable for his liking. Taking a few steps until he’s standing in front of the man who has the gall to be sitting on his computer chair, Maverick stares daggers.
Maverick: You’re fucking lucky I’m not one to be a dick to animals but again, what are you doing here? How did you get in? And what the fuck do you mean quaint? You have no idea of my plans and I am done with you being all vague and shit. What do you want?
Taking a short but telling glance to his left, Maverick eyes something in the other corner of his room, an aluminum bat, before looking back over at Skag.
Skag: I came to see if you wanted to watch the show with me. It has been amazing so far. Especially the part with the Tag Team Championships. Those Asylum guys seem like some very motivated individuals, ja?
Skag kicks his feet up and starts to pull a cigarette from his jacket pocket, causing the jacket to bounce off of his bare, sweaty chest. Maverick smacks the cigarette from his hand and Skag puts a hand to his chest.
Skag: Oh mein gute… Somebody must still be feeling effects from the fall. I guess it is lucky where I am already a few screws short upstairs.
Maverick, reaching his limits rather quickly reaches his left hand out, grabbing at the jacket of Skag, before bending a bit and forcing the man to be pulled closer. The rage exhibited on Maverick’s face shows the fact that he knows exactly what the half painted man speaks of and responds with a hint of venom in his voice.
Maverick: Those motivated individuals are damn lucky I’m not in that fucking building right now or else I would beat the holy hell out of them for what they did. And yet here the fuck you are making light of it knowing what it does to me. Do you have a fucking death wish?
Skag: Yes...
As he spoke his own response, Mav pushes him hard back against the chair, the wheels moving backwards until they bump into the wall. Maverick finally produces a smirk.
Maverick: So is that what you want me to do to you right now? Because you’re really fucking tempting me.
Skag pulls his jacket out of Mav’s grasp. He stands up and Hekate squeaks in Mav’s direction. She tries to bite at him, but is quite far away. Skag shushes her and strokes her head as he slowly leans forward.
Skag: I want you to try, I cannot lie. I have a death fantasy and you look just right for it. But that is neither here nor there. I just felt we started off on the wrong foot, and I came to make things right.
Skag picks up a paperweight from the desk and begins tossing it between his hands menacingly as he stares right at Maverick.
Skag: You take your best shot, schwachkopf (dickhead).
Maverick can’t help but let out a single chuckle before using his quick reflexes to snatch the paperweight mid toss. He looks at it for a moment, giving it a small toss up before catching it.
Maverick: You know I don’t know what the fuck you’re saying most of the time. Part of me thinks you get a kick out of it. However, in school, they always try to teach you polite words and that? That was not one of them.
Grasping the weight tight Mav takes his shot, going right after the nose as he did back in their match. He backs up after the one shot though and puts the weight back on the desk where he had it originally.
Maverick: You know, I’d personally prefer if we didn’t do this in my room. While I have the means thanks to my savings, I’d rather not repurchase everything in here. So how about we go out into the hall and settle this. No more tricks, no more bullshit. Now I’ll admit, what you’re asking for, I’ve never done it, but maybe you can be my first. I’ve always wanted the chance.
With each passing word, Maverick’s voice lowers until he pauses and lets out one last whisper, leaning in closer.
Maverick: But I think you knew that already, didn’t you?
Skag’s heart visibly skips a beat as he tries to catch his breath. Much like a romantic soliloquy right from his head, to Maverick’s mouth, his tongue hangs from his lips like a love struck puppy. He can’t help but make googly eyes at the sheer idea. As the blood drips from his nose, down his extended tongue, and from his chin to his chest, he kneels down on one knee. He looks over to Hekate on his shoulder and gives her a nod.
Skag: Es ist okay, Hekate. Das ist was ich will. (It is okay, Hekate. This is what I want).
She licks his cheek for a moment and steps down to safety. Skag looks up into Maverick’s dark eyes, his own deceiving angelic light blue eyes gazing upward.
Skag: Here, now. The paperweight to the side of mein skull. This is how it should go. The blood spatter will be hard to get rid of, and might last as long as the memory of this moment. It will be your reminder after I am gone.
Skag bows his head and laces his fingers together behind his back, execution style. All seven rats gather just a foot away, looking up to watch as things unfold. Maverick takes a look around at the scene before him. The rats watching, as if in anticipation. Skag ready for what is to come. Most importantly the paperweight which Maverick grabs from the desk. He looks at it, his heart beating faster each passing second. Grasping it tightly, he stares down at it and then Skag once again. Taking a swing, he stops just short and pulls back, as if a force caused the action to not be committed. One last shred of decency, or perhaps something else. Maverick drops the weight and touches the side of his head, pain shooting through it.
Skag: DO IT! HIT ME!
Skag looks up at Maverick, taking interest in the sight of him holding his own head. He leans up a little bit and studies the expression on his face, with his eyes clinched closed. He puts a hand just over Maverick’s and leans in close, hugging onto Maverick in a strange display of comforting. He begins speaking in soft shushing sounds as he had to his rats as they gather by his side.
Mercy Payne vs. Johnny Payne
Bridget Lewis-Killings: Our next match of the night features the in-ring debut of Johnny Payne here in EPIC against his cousin, Mercy Payne, in her first singles match in EPIC. This match came about after Johnny Payne called Mercy out on Twitter over her attack and eventual injury of J² at Mayhem. Mercy came out first to loud jeers from the crowd. Johnny was next out to a big reception from the crowd. While Johnny played to the crowd, Mercy attacked him from behind and then started to pick her cousin apart with a combination of punches and kicks, never letting up and never letting Johnny his footing. Finally, several minutes into the match, Johnny hit a standing side kick followed by a tornado DDT. This gave Johnny an opening, thereafter the two wrestlers traded control and this brings us to our shocking finish to the match as we take you to the action.
In the ring, Johnny has Mercy pinned in the corner as he mounts the turnbuckle and lays repeated punches on her as the crowd counts them down from one to nine. As he gets to ten he stops, plays to the crowd, then goes to hit ten, but before he can Mercy manages to push Johnny down and then hits him with a corkscrew roundhouse as she takes Johnny to the mat. Then she drops down to the mat and locks on a Kokina Clutch she calls No Mercy, but Johnny is able to get a grasp on the ropes. The referee starts to count to order the break, and just milliseconds before she can be DQ’d Mercy breaks the hold. Mercy pulls Johnny to his feet using a handful of hair. Then she hits a series of kicks to the shins, knees, and midsection. Then she hits him with an exploder suplex. Mercy drops to pin him, but Johnny manages to roll her up and holds the tights for leverage. The crowd counts past three, but the referee doesn’t make the count.
As the camera pulls back the referee is seen missing the pin because Noah Field has come down to the ring and is on the apron with the referee, talking to him. The crowd then groans as Devil Drake hops the guardrail and slips into the ring behind and kicks Johnny on the back of the neck breaking up the pinfall. Then Devil grabs Johnny by the neck, lifts him up off the mat. In a show of brute strength, he is able to take Johnny from this position, up to his shoulders, where he hits a fireman’s carry into a spinning slam he calls Brute Force. Devil slips out of the ring. Then Mercy, just as Johnny tries to push himself up, nails him with a curbstomp. Then she lifts him up on her shoulders, pushes him up, and drops him on her knee with a move she calls Payne Killer. Noah then points to the pin, the referee drops, and counts the three count and Mercy wins her first singles match in EPIC.
It doesn’t stop there, however. Devil climbs back in the ring and nails the referee with a hooking lariat he calls Hellbent. Then he joins Noah and Mercy in beating down Johnny Payne, all three kicking him over and over. Then Mercy pulls him up, whips him into the corner, and runs in with a huge leaping kick. As Johnny starts to fall, Devil catches him, then places him on the top turnbuckle. That’s when the crowd pops as Scarlett Payne, Johnny’s little sister and Mercy’s cousin, comes running to the ring with a baseball bat in hand as she makes her EPIC debut. Before she can hit anyone, Noah slides out of the ring and shouts to the others, who follow suit. Scarlett stands in the ring with the bat, daring any of them to come in. Noah walks over to the announce table and picks up a microphone.
Noah Field: If it isn’t little sister coming to the rescue. How cut is that? It doesn’t matter, the point is proven. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you...Gold Standard. And were here for one thing, to change the very foundation of EPIC wrestling. You’re welcome.
Noah drops the microphone and then the newly formed faction back up the ramp together as the scene cuts away.
The Common Man
The show now goes to a pre-recorded video from the home of EPIC World Champion, El Diablo Blanco, in Chicago, Illinois from earlier this week. El Diablo stands inside his garage, walls stripped down to just wood support beams. Behind him is a straight out of 1990s BMI 9000 Home Gym. Around him are various kids bicycles and oil spills on the floor. What doesn’t fit with the rest of the surroundings is our champion, El Diablo Blanco, clad with a Blue Sharkskin three piece suit and holding the EPIC World Title over his shoulder.
El Diablo Blanco: Ladies and Gentlemen of the Diablo Nation. There is but one thing I can say regarding the events of Mayhem and it’s this. We did it, Brothers and Sisters. Week after week, Graham Baker put me through tables. Graham Baker embedded my face with thumbtacks. Graham Baker ridiculed and mocked my very existence. But I’m no stranger to that, much like a lot of you out there. We’ve been pushed down. We’ve been told we’re not good enough. We were the outcasts. Well, let me tell you something, brothers and sisters. There seems to be a whole lot more of us outcasts out there than were previously thought. I have proven that the common man can stand up. The common man can rise. The common man…
Just then, the garage door begins opening and El Diablo Blanco immediately becomes blinded by the bright lights of his all too familiar Ford Escape. Shielding his eyes, a woman’s voice can be heard off camera.
Woman: Sorry, honey. Didn’t know you were filming a promo. Are you going to be done soon? The girls need their baths before bed time.
El Diablo Blanco: It’ll just take a moment, wifey. Go on and get those Little Diablitos inside and daddy will get them all scrubbed up before story time.
As the sound of the garage door rolling down to a close, El Diablo just shakes his head.
El Diablo Blanco: Each and every week since I won this beautiful title I have been trying to deliver this truly EPIC speech about how the common man can rise up. How if you believe in yourself you can truly achieve greatness. You don’t need to be bound down by those that think less of you. And yet each and every week I get interrupted. First, it was Graham Baker. Then, it was Drake Connors. Finally, it was my very own wife, Mrs. El D. What’s a guy got to do in order to put his heart out there?
El Diablo takes the EPIC World Title off his shoulder and gazes into it. He then looks at his attire. The $600+ suit the Taco Bell Executive had him get just didn’t feel right.
El Diablo Blanco: You know what, Brothers and Sisters. For weeks I have been wanting to get things off my chest. I haven’t been the full me. I haven’t been the El D that you initially grew to love. I’ve been peddling burritos each and every day. I’ve been making personal appearances weekly. I mean, sure the burritos are tasty but I’m not a suit and tie kind of guy. It’s just not me. It’s what others have told me to be. It’s what others have told me to do. What others have told me to act like. I’ve been told when to fight. I’ve been told what title I could fight for. I’ve been told what title I could win. Well, brothers and sisters, El Diablo Blanco has had about enough.
El Diablo sets the EPIC World Title down for a moment and grabs the suit by the jacket.
El Diablo Blanco: I am not the World Champion because I follow what I have been told to do. I am not the World Champion for being a corporate stooge. I am the EPIC World Champion because I wanted to be something those who were deemed losers, outcasts, burnouts, nerds, those who have been shamed throughout life. I am the EPIC World Champion because I am the realest dude on the block and fight against the oppression of the man. I AM EL DIABLO BLANCO.
With one tug, El Diablo rips away the full three piece suit to reveal that he customized it to be all one piece and like that of a tear away tracksuit. He is left standing in his garage with a black sleeveless compression shirt and Zubaz shorts. El Diablo reaches over and grabs the World Title with one hand and holds it close to his face.
El Diablo Blanco: El D stands here today ready to rock and sock the competition at every turn, Brother. This week at Chaos, my main dude, Drakey C, and I once again fight for the right to party as we become set on disposing of those two Jabrones known as Wyldside. RI5EN may have thought they were the cocks of the walk. They thought they could rule EPIC as the oppressors they are known to be. Nuh uh. No way, sir. Not today. Nope. You see, El D has got himself a bit of a fan club beside him. El D’s got 2 Cool Dudes in Drake Connors and JC Keeton. El D’s got the skibbidy doo wap Dudettes in Dizzie and Celina del Anil. We’re coming for you, Brothers. We’ve got 2 Cool Dudes. We’ve got the Skibbidy Doo Wap Dudettes. We’ve got an entire Nation. We’ve got the Diablo Nation and we will not rest until we eradicate the oppression known as RI5EN from EPIC. All that starts with the Jabrones known as Wyldside and right now there’s only one thing you two can do about it and that’s to DIGGIT and like it. See you soon.
El Diablo begins stomping around the garage, taking a seat at the chest press and rapidly doing reps with only 10 pounds attached to the system. All the while screaming out as he then makes his way to the opposite side for the squat system; again rapidly doing reps but it only being 10 pounds of weight. With that we go back to the Chaos Complex.
Damien Maddox vs. Ryan Castle
Bridget Lewis-Killings: Our next match on this jam-packed night is one that was made earlier in the night, when Maddox called out Ryan Castle, shortly after sending a message to Drake Connors. This feud started two weeks ago, when Damien met Castle in the ring after his debut win over Onyx, demanded he bust him open with a chair, and then took great satisfaction in introducing his faction, Asylum, as they destroyed Ryan Castle. In the match, Damien came out alone, then Ryan Castle came out next to a warm reception from the crowd. The beginning of the match was odd, in that Maddox did nothing but taunt Castle, demanding he get in his shots while Maddox refused to defend himself. Then it was like a switch clicked in Maddox. He used a series of hard, crisp moves designed to do nothing more than create pain, with an affinity for biting. Let’s go to the action.
In the ring, Maddox hits a punch to the throat causing Castle to gurgle. Maddox follows that with lifting Maddox up, feet to the sky, then dropping him on his head with a variation of a brainbuster that just looks absolutely devastating. Castle tries to get up, but when he does Maddox places his boot on the back of his head and starts to grind his face on the canvas, then he backs up and punts him in the head. With Castle looking nearly out cold, Maddox starts to grind his knuckle hard into the temple of Castle, twisting and pressing it until the skin breaks and Castle starts to bleed. Maddox starts to smear the blood all over Castle’s face and laugh before he locks on Straight Jacket, and Castle quickly taps.
Maddox, after the bell has rung, yells off the referee. Then he takes the blood of Castle, puts his hands in it, then writes the name “Connors” across the back of Castle in his own blood.
The Rundown
The scene cuts fluidly from the conclusion of the Damien Maddox/Ryan Castle match to the interior of the locker room of EPIC’s rookie sensation, Mercy Payne. As the camera pans the room, Mercy is nowhere to be seen, although it’s clear she’s in the shower. Instead, we see a rather tall and muscular man with perfectly coiffed red hair dressed in a rather expensive navy Armani suit reclined back on a plush chair, his feet kicked up on the table while he waits. He takes a slug from the tumbler of amber liquid and smiles when he hears the water turn off.
CT Landon: I was beginnin’ to wonder if you were gonna homestead in there all night or what? Afraid of the repercussions from yer cousins, lass?
Mercy finally emerges from the bathroom, dressed in a vintage Ramones T-shirt and a pair of strategically ripped jeans. She gives CT a rather irritated look and rolls her eyes as she takes a seat at her vanity. She begins to roll the fishnet sleeves up her arms before finally turning to her friend/manager, cracking a wry smile.
Mercy Payne: You don’t honestly believe those two are gonna keep me up at night, do ya? I’m more worried they’ll keep sticking their nose in where it doesn’t belong. They’re nothing if not predictable, CT. You didn’t see either one of them in 3XW, did you? Of course not. I was running over people right and left even after I won my title. They know they can’t stand toe to toe with me. Why do you think Scarlett came running with a bat? The little chickenshit knows I’ll end her and her brother.
CT chuckles heartily as he watches his client, recognizing the transformation back to her MMA days.
CT Landon: Now that’s the Mercy I know and love! Fuck these people! You do what you do best! Just don’t get banned cause that’s messing with both our bank accounts. I gotta say this Noah Field alliance was a stroke of genius, I mean, no one saw it comin’.
Mercy fluffs out her unruly locks and laughs.
Mercy Payne: No one but me, Noah and Morgan, and of course Devil. (at the mention of his name, a smile and dreamy look graces her features).
CT watches her closely then begins to nod his head and laughs.
CT Landon: I KNEW IT! You two are riding the hobby horse, ai’nt ya?
Mercy has the decency to blush as she waved her hand dismissively.
Mercy Payne: That’s not important. We’ve known each other since our MMA days. Anyway, you know your role, same as Morgan. You support Noah and I, sometimes Devil and keep my annoying cousins out of our business, understand? And needless to say, keep your hands off Morgan, am I clear?
CT holds his hands up in surrender.
CT Landon: I got it! But is Devil off limits as well? I mean, not many can resist the Ginger Dream…
As Mercy rolls her eyes, the scene begins to fade out.
Drake Connors & El Diablo Blanco vs. Wyldeside
Bridget Lewis-Killings: Ladies and gentlemen it is now time for our main event of the night as the team of Wyldeside take on the championship tandem of our Violence Champion Drake Connors and the EPIC Word Champion El Diablo Blanco. Now while both Drake and El D were able to retain their respective titles at Mayhem, both are still looking to get payback on the other members of RI5EN and have the chance to do so now. On the other end, Ethan and Lucas have the chance to get their own payback and get into the winning column once again. We leave you now with the highlights of this tag team match and wish you all a good night.
El D starts the match for his team against Lucas. Ethan distracts the ref, allowing El D to get hit in the nuts by Lucas. “Mis Diablitos!! Avenge me, Connors!”
He falls back into blind tag from Drake. Drake hits Ring of Cocytus on Lucas, and goes for the pin. 1! 2! Ethan goes to stomp to break up the pin, but Drake senses it coming and rolls, and Ethan stomps Lucas by mistake. Ethan apologizes profusely to his brother, Drake capitalizes on the situation, and whips both men into corners.
Tag to a recovered El D. Both Drake and El D hit simultaneous Feelin’ Froggy’s to the idiots in the corners and roll both men up for the ultimate most embarrassing 1! 2! 3! in EPIC’s history!