(EAW intro plays.)
(A recap as always is shown of last week’s Voltage, highlighting the major events throughout the night. Following this the camera opens up to the Belgrade Arena in Belgrade, Serbia, where tonight’s show will take place. Pyro shoots from the stage in preparation for the show, and the camera pans to reveal thousands of fans, who are shown cheering with excitement. After this, it cuts to the commentary table, where Rich Russillo, Thadd Blazevich and Persephone are seen.)
Rich Russillo: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the final Sunday Night Voltage before Wicked Games! I can’t wait. Wicked Games is always an exciting event and I don’t think this year will be any different!
Thadd Blazevich: I know, bro. Can’t believe the year is already almost over, but we got some insane matches cooking up for Wicked Games and I’m beyond stoked!
Persephone: But unfortunately we have to sit through tonight first. Whatever.
Rich Russillo: Don’t worry. If you ask me, this is bound to be one hell of a final show!
(‘The Leaving Song Pt. II’ by AFI hits, causing the crowd to explode with cheers. The camera pans towards the stage, and the fans show excitement as Hans Grayson, the EAW World Champion begins walking out to the stage. Hans wears his Championship around his waist, carrying a microphone in his hand as he begins to walk down the ramp. He has a focused look on his face as he walks down the ramp, staring towards the ring as he approaches it.)
Rich Russillo: Hans Grayson is one week away from what’s about to be a huge triple threat for the EAW World Championship. I don’t blame him for having some words ahead of that match.
Thadd Blazevich: Me neither, dude. Things been getting crazier and crazier, even with Daniella ditching this match thanks to the whole ToXXXin beef. Given all the history between these three dudes, maybe they’re glad they get to put this to rest.
Persephone: If I was Daniella I’d get out of this match too, although I don’t think I’d want to be around Minerva or Selina, either. Anyways, I don’t need to hear Hans speak. I think we all know he’s not happy about getting jumped by Kai.
(Hans makes it to ringside, jumping onto the apron before he steps into the ring. His entrance music begins to fade out, and he stares out at the fans for a moment, nodding his head hearing all of the cheers. He keeps the focus on his face however, lowering his head momentarily before he speaks.)
Hans Grayson: It’s good to see you all tonight. To be honest, it’s been a rough last few weeks. I thought I was heading into a fatal four way at Wicked Games. That turned out not to be the case, but that doesn’t make things any easier. I won’t lie. There’s a very real chance I do leave next week empty handed.
(The fans boo hearing this statement from Hans, too supportive of him to even want to entertain the possibility of his defeat. Hans doesn’t look surprised by this, but he continues.)
Hans Grayson: I know, I know. It’s not the preferred outcome, but look at it. The ever so eager Jay Jerry Johnson. The young Kai Rabeaux. I’m more than familiar with both of those men, and I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that this is going to be the toughest challenge of my entire Championship reign. Don’t misunderstand, Raven Roberts was incredible at Bloodsport. She brought the kind of challenge only an experienced vet like her could. Jay Jerry Johnson was hungry at Territorial Invasion, and I’m still not happy that our match had to end how it did. However, this match doesn’t just have experience, nor hunger. It has everything. Hunger, experience, chaos, and most importantly, history.
Hans Grayson: Just one year ago, Kai and I had to share months of our careers with each other thanks to Drake Armstrong. I’d say we got to know each other pretty well, even more than during our time on Dynasty. That said, I think it goes without saying that he and I are not too fond of each other. He’s like Drake in many ways, so it isn’t surprising that he only continued to back Drake throughout our issues– all while becoming potentially an even greater menace. He’s selfish, he’s arrogant, he’ll always blame everyone else when he faces the consequences of his own actions– but whether I like it or not, he’s dangerous. He was the Hardcore Champion for as long as he was for a reason, and if that wasn’t enough, I saw up close how tough he was just a few months ago.
(Hans pauses, letting out a sigh before he continues.)
Hans Grayson: And of course, same could be said for Jay Jerry Johnson. Maybe even more so for him. If any of you weren’t aware, Jay and I actually go back. We’ve known each other for a few years now, having shared brands in the past like when we were both on Dynasty. We’ve crossed paths our fair share of times, and I won’t deny that things got heated between us. There have been times in the past where he and I have gone back and forth. We’ve said things we’d probably regret in the future, and by the time this season came around and he stepped up to challenge me, I was ready to let bygones be bygones and treat Jay like I would any challenger, because I respect what he’s capable of inside of the ring. However, just like Raven, just like Drake, just like everyone that comes for my title, he made a mistake.
Hans Grayson: He chose to try and get under my skin, unaware of what’d happen should he get his wish.
Hans Grayson: Jay has his thoughts on Territorial Invasion. He thinks I stole the win. He thinks I just escaped– and you know what? Maybe I did, and if that’s the case that’s the burden I’m going to bear by defending this title at Wicked Games and making sure the past doesn’t repeat itself, even if it means the end of my reign as Champion. Kai attacked me last week, and it was only a few weeks ago that Jay went after me in the middle of a match. I’m not going to just keep letting them do what they please, because that’s not who I am. It’s not who I’ve ever been, and I’d rather I go out swinging than be a coward or a doormat to two guys who think they can disrespect me at every turn in front of all of the people who’ve had my back all these years and get away with it! There’s no telling what’ll happen at Wicked Games, but I can promise you all that next week I’m giving EVERYTHING I have to this match!
(The fans cheer as they hear the determination and passion coming from the Champion, who isn’t finished just yet.)
Hans Grayson: I’m not holding anything back. I’m not giving my opponents the chance to come back a week later saying they were screwed over. Next week, you will see me at my best. No matter what it takes, I will–
???: You will do *nothing*, Fireheart.
(Immediately the fans begin to boo the sudden interruption, and Hans just shakes his head in frustration before he turns towards the stage.)
Hans Grayson: Of course…
(At the stage, Kai Rabeaux is seen beginning to walk out. He’s already holding a microphone, and he has a dismissive look on his face as he begins to walk down the ramp.)
Kai Rabeaux: Have you so easily forgotten in the middle of your spiel that the clock has already begun winding down, and your Championship reign is running on borrowed time? Last week was merely a brief reminder of what fate you’ll suffer at Wicked Games, though it seems such a reminder wasn’t enough for you to understand the position you’re truly in. To be honest, it is quite baffling.
(Kai makes it to ringside, walking up the steel steps as he ignores loud boos from the fans. Hans waits for him to enter the ring, though he isn’t pleased to already be forced to deal with this.)
Kai Rabeaux: How could a man with enemies everywhere prove so ignorant? Somehow, you found yourself to be the successor of Drake Armstrong. Since then you’ve been targeted by Raven Roberts, who you struck down. You were targeted by the ever so incompetent Jay Jerry Johnson, he was defeated through your survival. Now you’ve once again been brought face to face with the man who you defeated at Territorial Invasion– and yet he is no longer your greatest foe. Now you’re in my path. You are the one obstacle who stands before my first World Championship victory. Suppose the same could be said for Jay, though he’s hardly worth the time he has been granted. The Championship around your waist for months has served a symbol of your ability to evade the attacks thrown at you, but no more. Come Wicked Games, that Championship will bear a new meaning, for it’ll mark my ascension to the pinnacle of this industry.
(The boos continue, and for a moment Hans just looks out at the fans, acknowledging their reaction before he turns back to Kai.)
Hans Grayson: You do understand why they all hate you, don’t you?
Kai Rabeaux: Do you think it concerns me what your crowd of sycophantic fools think of the next generation’s Overlord?
Hans Grayson: No actually I don’t, but they hate you for the same reasons I don’t plan on letting you touch this title. We already had to deal with this brand being torn apart from the top by Drake Armstrong back when he held this title, and I get it Kai. You and Drake are good friends, so much so that when I came back from injury at the start of the year you didn’t even hesitate to call your shot at me. You’re not going to do what he did though, because simply put– you’re the worst. You’re a lying, psychotic egomaniac and no matter what you throw at me, I just can’t let you win this.
(The fans cheer, but Kai just remains unimpressed with this response from the Champion, taking a slow, small step forward as he stares at Hans.)
Kai Rabeaux: Even after all this time, you’ve managed to convince yourself you actually have a choice. As I thought. You haven’t the slightest understanding. I knew our history would repeat itself, but to think you’d face defeat at my hands once more without having learned a single thing from our previous match. For the World Champion of this brand, you truly are a shame.
(Hans can’t hide his annoyance at Kai’s comment, but he’s not given a chance to respond. ‘Once Then We’ll Be Free’ by Wisp hits. The reception is a bit more mixed compared to what was shown towards the Champion, but that isn’t any concern to Jay Jerry Johnson, who storms out with a microphone in his hand.)
Persephone: I don’t know if there’s ever been a collection of men I’ve wanted to see less than these three.
Rich Russillo: Well I don’t think it’d be a stretch to say that this is one of the most heated matches going into Wicked Games. These three all have separate issues with each other at this point, which I think has added to the chaos and unpredictability of it all.
Thadd Blazevich: Yeah dude, it’s gotta be hard for all three of them. Anything can happen here.
(Jay reaches ringside and walks up the steel steps, with his entrance music fading out in the process. As he steps into the ring, he immediately begins to speak.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: You know, I find this conversation funny. It’s ridiculous, honestly. Promises and threats thrown at each other endlessly, all while both of you understand that I should already have that Championship in my possession. I don’t need to plead my case, nor prove that I am worthy of becoming Champion, because it wasn’t me who failed to perform at Territorial Invasion. It was the Champion himself, who could not put me down with the Burning Shot Lariat that he had promised. It was the man who couldn’t put me down with any finishing maneuver of his. He went back on his word, and both of you know why. To be clear, there is only one reason Hans would ever need to such a low.
(After saying this, Jay turns and walks towards Kai.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: It is actually for the same reason you would go out of your way to cost me my match, despite your current insistence that I’m merely a waste of time.
(Kai doesn’t respond to this.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: Both of you understand the threat that I am, so much so that promises and warnings are unnecessary on my end. At Territorial Invasion I had Hans Grayson beat, and that is the truth. It’s why the outcome of the match cannot leave his mind. Sure, what he did was well within the rules of professional wrestling– but don’t forget what you said, Hans. You and I go back. I know you well enough to understand the kind of mentality you have towards that Championship, and no matter how poorly you attempt to convince yourself otherwise, you cannot consider what happened at Territorial Invasion a true victory. All you did was delay the inevitable.
(Tension fills the ring as Hans and Jay stare at each other. It is Kai who appears disgusted by Jay’s words however, as he begins to speak.)
Kai Rabeaux: I suppose this is what’s to be expected when given a rodent the chance to feel like a king. This is your doing, Fireheart. Empowering the likes of Jay Jerry Johnson to feel he’s worthy of a World Championship. How disgusting.
Jay Jerry Johnson: Do you really believe you’re any better after last we–
Kai Rabeaux: As I told Hans, my actions last week were for the sole purpose of reminding you of what Wicked Games will look like. Perhaps you were cost your match, but truthfully it isn’t as if you were going to win anyhow. You know what kind of man you are Jay, and despite your best attempts to defeat your true nature, you can’t resist being the kind to find his peak at second place. Clearly, you were never going to win that Championship. You failed when you had the best chance you ever could’ve at Territorial Invasion, and now you’ll never have a similar opportunity again.
(Hearing this Jay just stops, almost smiling out of disbelief of everything he’s being told by the man who just robbed him of his chance to earn the advantage ahead of this match.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: You know, it is a shame. At least Hans I can respect as a competitor, even if he and I can’t see eye to eye. You on the other hand? There is nothing to respect.
(The fans cheer.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: Don’t forget how last week ended, Kai. You cost me my match because you knew the threat that’d arise leaving me with the advantage, but you didn’t do to me what you did to Hans. When the night ended, you were laid out just like he was.
Kai Rabeaux: Which was an error that won’t find itself repeated come Wicked Games.
Hans Grayson: No, no it will. You’re going down Kai, but it’s not just going to be you. I have spent the last few weeks just dealing with a bunch of nonsense from the two of you, and I get that you both have something to prove. You both have a lot of hunger and clearly there’s a lot of animosity between us all, but I’ve had enough of this. Enough of the threats, enough of the attacks, enough of the mind games. Every week it’s something new. Every week it’s something to distract from the point. The point being that at Wicked Games the better wrestler will win, and–
Jay Jerry Johnson: And what, Hans? Do you really intend to say that that’s you, even after all of this? You spend weeks making promises. You flat out tell me HOW you intend to defeat me, and when I had it all scouted and you were beaten, you ran away and took that title back by any means necessary. You didn’t overcome the odds, you lowered yourself to whatever means allowed that Championship to stay around your waist. You didn’t just lie to me. You lied to yourself, yet you really have the audacity to say you are the better wrestler?
Hans Grayson: Yes, Jay. I do.
Jay Jerry Johnson: You really are unbelievable.
Hans Grayson: How many times do you plan to hold Territorial Invasion over my head before you look in the mirror and realize that what happened back there was not just on me. I’m not the one who had my shoulders pinned to the mat for the three count. I’m not the one who walked out of Territorial Invasion empty handed. I said all I could about that match Jay, but you seem to want me to get on my knees and bow to you because that match didn’t end how I planned, and that’s not happening. This isn’t just about whether or not I believe I’m the better wrestler. I have to be. It’s time for us both to move on, and I’m going to do that by bringing the definitive end to this that I should’ve at TI. No excuses.
(The crowd explodes with cheers, firmly behind the EAW World Champion after his statement. Jay just stares at Hans for a moment, not showing much of a reaction as he tries to keep his composure despite his frustrations.)
Jay Jerry Johnson: No excuses. Right. Just know I’ve already beaten one of you, and I already came inches within defeating the other. Don’t think I can’t beat both of you next week, when everything I promised to achieve is hanging right in front of me.
(Hearing this, Kai just begins to laugh.)
Kai Rabeaux: The grandest dreams for the smallest men. I’m well aware of how pitiful the Champion is. I spent the better part of last season seeing firsthand how lowly of a human being Hans Grayson truly is, but you Jay? You just might be worse. At least the Fireheart was able to overcome his greatest obstacles. As childish in nature as he is, he found the ability to capture that Championship, and has sat in the throne I will soon usurp. You, Jay? For a man whose time in this company precedes us both, you’ve yet to come close. You are not just the child that Hans Grayson is. You are a failure, and you will not stop me from–
Rich Russillo: WOAH, JAY JUST TURNED AND GAVE KAI A BIG BOOT!!
Thadd Blazevich: I THINK KAI MIGHT’VE FINALLY GOTTEN UNDER JAY’S SKIN TONIGHT!!
Persephone: At least the yapping part is done.
Rich Russillo: It was only a matter of time! Jay rushes over at Kai and lands a nasty elbow, beginning to club at his back while Kai lands punches to the ribs! Kai surprises Jay with an uppercut– AND SENDS JAY INTO HANS, WHO PUSHES JAY AWAY!
Thadd Blazevich: Hans didn’t seem to appreciate that bro, AS HE GOES AFTER KAI AND DRIVES HIM INTO THE CORNER! NOW THOSE TWO BEGIN TRADING SHOTS BACK AND FORTH, UNTIL JAY COMES BACK AND RIPS HANS AWAY FROM KAI!!!
Rich Russillo: HANS PUNCHES JAY IN THE JAW FOR THAT THOUGH– UNTIL JAY FIGHTS BACK WITH AN ELBOW! JAY AND HANS BEGIN TRADING SHOTS BACK AND FORTH– BUT JAY LANDS A FOREARM THAT MAKES HANS TURN– RIGHT INTO A SUPERKICK BY KAI!! Hans stumbles into the ropes– AND KAI COMES CHARGING IN–
Thadd Blazevich: BUT HANS PULLS THE TOP ROPE DOWN, SENDING KAI OUT TO RINGSIDE!! Hans gets back to his feet while Kai hits the ringside floor hard–
Persephone: AND JAY JERRY JOHNSON RUNS IN AT THE SAME TIME, CLOTHESLINING HANS OVER THE TOP ROPE!!!
Rich Russillo: Hans is sent out to ringside where Kai is! Both Hans and Kai are finding their way back to their feet– AND KAI LANDS A BACK ELBOW TO HANS IN THE MEANTIME! Hans fights back with a forearm that catches Kai in the jaw, and now those two are going back and forth while Jay Jerry Johnson seems to have a plan! Jay begins running the ropes!
Thadd Blazevich: SUICIDE DIVE!!! TRIPLE J LANDS THE SUICIDE DIVE, AND HE GRABS KAI BEFORE CHUCKING HIM OVER THE TIMEKEEPER’S AREA!!! KAI’S BACK HITS THE RING BELL AS HE TUMBLES ONTO THE FLOOR, WITH ALL THE PROPPED UP CHAIRS FALLING OVER AND ONTO HIM!
Rich Russillo: Jay turns over to the Champion, AND HANS SWINGS AT JAY– BUT JAY DUCKS UNDER IT, BEFORE SCOOPING HANS UP!!!
Thadd Blazevich: HEAVEN’S FEEL!!!
Rich Russillo: HEAVEN’S FEEL CONNECTS ON THE RINGSIDE FLOOR, AND HANS GRAYSON GOES DOWN!!! Jay Jerry Johnson just got the better of both of his Wicked Games, and you have to imagine that means a lot given everything Jay has dealt with as of late!
Thadd Blazevich: Dude is heading into Wicked Games with a vengeance, and I think that’s what this just proved. Triple J wants that Championship, and he could very well win it here.
Rich Russillo: Jay Jerry Johnson gets the upper hand tonight after a wild brawl. Will the same occur at Wicked Games, with the EAW World Championship on the line!?
(Jay Jerry Johnson stands over Hans Grayson while the fans are loud. He has a focused look on his face as he looks down on him, slowly beginning to turn and make his way up the ramp, as the damage has been done. Kai is still down, underneath all of the chairs in the timekeeper’s area, while Hans is unconscious at ringside. With Jay Jerry Johnson standing tall, Voltage fades from ringside.)
(The camera pans backstage, and in the hallway of Belgrade Arena, Sofia Clarke can be seen holding a microphone in her hand, staring in front of the camera with a smile on her face. As the camera settles in, Sofia Clarke begins to finally speak.)
Sofia Clarke: Ladies and gentlemen, at this time please welcome EAW Hall of Famer, Raven Roberts!
(The fans cheer as Raven Roberts walks into the camera frame, maintaining a calm smirk on her face following the events of last Voltage.)
Sofia Clarke: Raven, thank you for joining me tonight. In fact, I was surprised to know that you actually requested this interview.
Raven Roberts: I did. Given the circumstances, I thought it’d be fitting.
Sofia Clarke: Well you did win a big match last week, which granted you the opportunity to choose any advantage of your liking for your match against Eris Morti at Wicked Games.
Raven Roberts: Right, and don’t get me wrong, I understand the circumstances of that victory. It was chaotic, it was messy. Countless people got themselves involved in the match and turned the match into something it didn’t need to be, but let’s be honest, that should’ve been expected from the beginning. Every single one of us in the match went into it knowing that we had targets on our backs, and opponents that wouldn’t want us with the advantage. I don’t believe I’m any exception to that, and I’m not sure why Eris didn’t get involved knowing everything I could do with the advantage, but she didn’t. Instead, I found an opportunity and I took it. Now I get to do whatever I want for our match at Wicked Games, and actually Sofia, that is the reason I wanted to do this.
Sofia Clarke: Really?
(Raven nods.)
Raven Roberts: I could have waited until Wicked Games, and kept Eris wondering what I would choose for our match. I’m certain it’s the kind of thing she’d do with this opportunity– but I have made one thing clear ever since this began, and it’s that I have no interest in playing whatever games she wants to. I’m going to reveal the advantage for our match, and she can take the time to accept it, and prepare herself however she might– but I don’t believe it’ll matter in the end, because I am coming for victory and I’m certain I’ll be able to put Eris down with this. My “advantage” is going to be a stipulation. The kind of stipulation that guarantees this ends at Wicked Games, once and for all.
(Keeping the smirk on her face, Raven turns towards the camera, speaking with her attention now on her Wicked Games opponent.)
Raven Roberts: So Eris, I hope you are listening… because our match is going to be *Last Woman Standing*.
(This brings out loud cheers from the crowd, while Sofia Clarke actually looks surprised to hear such a stipulation chosen.)
Sofia Clarke: Wow! I didn’t expect that. We don’t see this stipulation too often on Voltage.
Raven Roberts: I know. I figured it wouldn’t be the assumed choice.
Sofia Clarke: What caused you to choose that for your advantage rather than something more one sided? Wouldn’t a Last Woman Standing help both of you?
Raven Roberts: Well, it’s simple. I know what I could have done with this advantage. The power was all in my hands and if I wanted Eris could have walked into this match completely handicapped and it wouldn’t even be a match– but I’m not doing this just for convenience or an easy night. I’m doing this to get rid of a problem, and I know how to do it because I paid attention. I notice what’s going on around me, and it was only back at Bloodsport that Eris faced Caroline inside of The Box. It was a strange match. Not like anything I’ve seen for the most part, but functionally it was a stipulation similar to this one. For as much as she talks about enjoying the thrill of battle, we saw how Eris performs when in a match that tests your endurance. She was brought down by Caroline, and kept down for the count of ten. I have already seen exactly what it takes to take Eris down, so I’m fine with going down this road with her. Since this type of stipulation worked so well for her last time, I’ll gladly be the next person to put her down.
(Hearing this, Sofia nods.)
Sofia Clarke: Understood. It seems you really thought this through.
Raven Roberts: I had to. Eris decided to make this personal, so I’m not going to hold anything back with her. Two of us are going to walk into Wicked Games, and when it’s over only one of us will be left standing. This is what she wanted. We worked well at Territorial Invasion. We were able to stay on the same page and get the job done, but Eris wanted this fight and I’m not just going to give her that fight, I’m going to end this. After that, who knows? I still have that favor, and I still have ambitions outside of this. There’s no telling what I mig–
Sofia Clarke: OH MY GOD!!
(Suddenly, Raven is yanked backwards, dragged into a sleeper hold by Eris Morti! Raven flails her arms, not expecting the sudden attack before she quickly backpedals, sending Eris back first into a wall. Eris releases the submission, but immediately retaliates with an elbow to the back of Raven’s head, beginning to club at her back while Sofia rushes from the area, leaving the two to trade shots back and forth, trying their best to get the better of each other.)
(Raven runs herself into Eris a second time, sending her into the wall once again before landing a punch that connects with the jaw. Raven grabs Eris, trying to send her into one of the production crates, but Eris turns it around, throwing Raven over the crate as she lands on top of it, knocking over a few boxes in the process. Raven falls off of the crate and lands in front of a bunch of folded chairs. Eris uses the opportunity to approach, but Raven promptly pushes herself up, grabbing one of the chairs before throwing it at Eris!)
(Eris drops to a knee, and Raven grabs onto the crate before dragging herself up. The Hall of Famer rushes towards her Wicked Games opponent–)
(But Eris runs into Raven, driving her through the exit of the arena, leading into the parking lot! Both Elitists land on the floor right outside of the door, needing to take a moment after suddenly hitting the ground. Still on top of Raven, Eris uses the one brief opportunity the two have to breathe to press the side of Raven’s head against the floor with her hand. She brings her head close, beginning to speak with an almost confused expression on her face.)
Eris Morti: Last Woman Standing…? Are you sure that’s what you want?
(Raven pulls Eris’ arm off, landing another punch as Eris falls off of her. Raven turns and begins to push herself up, landing another punch that causes Eris to continue to stumble back. Raven follows, but Eris lands a knee to the midsection, followed by an elbow and a second knee, targeting the midsection once more before beginning to drag Raven towards the parking lot. There is a lot of back and forth between the two as they stumble further and further into the parking lot, trading punches and any attacks they can land on each other, until Raven is able to break from Eris’ grasp, landing a headbutt on Eris. By this point Raven notices the setting, with the two surrounded by cars. She looks around for a moment, before dragging Eris over to one of them and slamming her face off of the trunk of one of the cars!)
(Eris drops to a knee, and Raven finally takes a moment to take a breath following the sudden brawl. She watches Eris stumble over towards another one of the cars, just shaking her head before she walks over to her, stopping Eris and grabbing her. She begins to build speed while holding Eris by the back of her head, running in before…)
(CRASH!!!)
(ERIS TURNS, AND GRABS RAVEN BEFORE SENDING HER HEAD FIRST THROUGH THE WINDOW OF A CAR DOOR!!)
(Eris immediately pulls Raven out of the window, not even hesitating to begin to violently bash her head into the already broken glass. More pieces of glass begin breaking off as blood is left stained and dripping onto the rest of the sards, as well as inside of the car itself. The bashing continues, until Eris eventually rips Raven out and sends her back first into the door of the car beside it, causing the back of her head to hit the other car window as Raven slumps down into a seated position, revealing all of the shards that have been left in Her forehead. Eris stares at Raven for a moment, breathing heavily. Raven’s face is severely covered in blood, with more continuing to drip from her forehead, as well as from other cuts left on her cheek and her nose. Eris looks behind her at the car with the shattered window, turning back to Raven before beginning to nod.)
(Eris drags Raven up, throwing her onto the roof of the car before climbing on top of it. She gets to her feet at the very top of the car, pulling Raven’s head over the windshield before lifting her up…)
(Before dropping her with “The Human Condition”, the Gotch Piledriver onto the windshield.)
(The windshield cracks, pieces of it breaking within the car as Eris just sits on top of the car, looking down at Raven, whose blood has been left all over the windshield.)
(Finally, security guards begin rushing out of the arena, having been called by Sofia Clarke when she ran off. Eris sees this and gets off of the car, turning back to Raven as she keeps her eyes on her with no clear expression on her face, still breathing heavily after that brawl. The security guards begin to frantically pull Eris away from Raven, while medics are brought out, immediately forced to run over to the Hall of Famer who has not moved since the piledriver into the car’s windshield.)
(With Raven Roberts covered in blood on top of the car, surrounded by medical personnel serving as the final image, Voltage fades away from the area.)
(Promotional ad for Wicked Games, where the match between Raven Roberts and Eris Morti will be Last Woman Standing!)
(Sunday Night Voltage continues on as ‘So Far So Fake’ by Pierce the Veil begins to play as out comes Candice Blair who gets a majorly positive reaction from the audience here tonight. Candice has a determined look in her eyes, scanning the arena before making her way down the ring as she wears a dark coloured corset and shorts.)
Bella Braxton: PLEASE WELCOME AT THIS TIME… CANDICE BLAIR!!
Rich Russillio: Candice looks ready for what’s to come next weekend as big implications are in place to whoever wins between herself and Sayuri Himura and what’s that big implication? A spot in the Universal Women’s Championship Chamber Match! With a spot like that up for grabs… It would be astronomical for either Candice or Sayuri to enter and perhaps walk out with the Universal Women’s Championship. Unfortunately, they’re in each other’s way of doing just that.
Thadd Blazevich: You said it best there Rich, we saw both of what they were saying to each other last week with Sayuri mentioning what she believes is Candice’s fatal flaw… is that she’s scared… scared of losing yet another opportunity like this bro. You can feel the tension between them with an opportunity like this. In moments like this, you need to bring your A-game and Candice intends to do just that and remind Sayuri she may end up feeling disappointed at what the end result will be for her at Wicked Games.
Persephone: BORING! Can one of them just rip each other’s eyes out or something, we need some drama for this match.
Thadd Blazevich: I think the chance to try and get inside a world championship chamber match is the drama broski! It can change one of these ladies careers if they qualify for it and compete in that extreme elimination chamber match.
Persephone: yeah, yeah… whatever.
Rich Russillo: Anyways, let’s hear what Candice has to say right here, right now!
(Candice continues making her way down the ring, as she high fives a couple of fans at ringside before climbing up the steel steps and entering in between the ropes. She gets a microphone passed to her by a ringside official as soon enough her music begins to fade out. After this, Candice begins to speak.)
Candice Blair: We’re only a week away from Wicked Games and as you all know I have a very important match for myself. Winning the match means getting a shot at the Universal Women’s Championship, and doing something I never have before. It’s a massive opportunity not just for me but for Sayuri as well, we both would benefit from being a part of that match and the huge opportunity that comes with competing in a match like this.
(The crowd in Serbia cheers Candice as she continues to talk about her opponent.)
Candice Blair: However for that same reason, I doubt Sayuri has what it takes to defeat me at Wicked Games. She told me last week that I’m scared of failing again and she plans on taking advantage of that but as I said I’m not going to allow myself to be made like a fool, not when THIS kind of opportunity exists and Sayuri’s career has proven thus far that she has not been able to push herself in moments like this. She’s not a bad competitor, there is no doubting that but getting herself over that line is something that hasn’t worked for Sayuri so far. She knows what her career has been like. She knows her time here has been rough, but she spends week after week glamorizing and hiding her own failures only to go on to add more to her resume. She does it to herself, and if she believes attempting to relate to me with my own past is the right decision, she can expect the pattern to continue next week.
(The fans are surprised by the harsh words from Candice. However, before she could say anything else, ‘REVIVER’ by MY FIRST STORY begins to play as out comes Sayuri Himura! She too comes out to a positive reaction from the crowd as she emerges from the stage and makes her presence felt while she wears a casual attire. She marches her down to the ring as Candice looks on.)
Rich Russillo: Sayuri is coming out here now and I’m sure she has plenty of things to say to Candice as she mentions that Sayuri can’t push herself to moments like this. Sayuri herself wants to win this match just as much as Candice.
Thadd Blazevich: For sure Rich! Remember though Candice also said last week that Sayuri calling them the same competitor bugged her, that their failures do not intersect with another. She and Candice have had opposing thoughts and opinions about their ideals of winning a match like this at Wicked Games so let’s see what Sayuri bro has to say towards her opponent.
(Sayuri continues making her way down the ring as she picks up a microphone from the steps and climbs up. She enters in between the ropes as she stands face to face with Candice as her music begins to fade away. She doesn’t look pleased by Candice’s words, but keeping her composure she begins to respond.)
Sayuri Himura: I couldn’t help but overhear the words you were saying about me Candice, and I have to question why you feel the need to try and get underneath my skin? I believed we were in the same situation. The two of us despite our efforts have been unable to overcome a certain barrier. To be honest, this is even more true in your case given the fact that you yourself have never won a championship within this promotion despite your many years. If anyone hasn’t been able to get over the line it is you, but again you’re a skilled competitor. I never denied this, so why must you go out of your way to attack me? To treat my mindset, my beliefs as if they are a weakness, rather than a mere difference from your own?
Candice Blair: I’m not so much disrespecting you Sayuri, more so just telling you the truth. Unlike you, Sayuri; I have been here long enough to understand what happens if you don’t stand up for yourself and give back the kind of energy that’s been given to you. You’ve been disrespected countless times already and haven’t done anything about it. I have swallowed many bitter pills during my time here and I took on the mistakes I’ve made head on, so again try to refrain from having us being compared the same. I have learned to swim with the sharks in this promotion. I haven’t won a championship, but the fact that I’m not okay with this is exactly what gave me the fuel to perform when I needed to, like in Brand Warfare back at Territorial Invasion. You don’t have that. You’re just not good enough to capitalize on this. Not when the greatest opportunity possible is on the line.
(This gets a reaction from the crowd, but Sayuri keeps her calm despite the remark.)
Sayuri Himura: If your goal is to get me to lose my focus, I’m afraid it will not work. I can appreciate the attempt in doing such a thing but I assure you it has not phased me. I know what I am striving for, and I will not stop merely because you believe I’m incapable of achieving it. It’s only natural you’d feel how you do as an opponent. I stand in the way of what you want. You can believe that I’m not good enough to be in this position and I have no problem making you regret those words once our match comes… and once again, Candice Blair does not succeed in her title ventures. Facing setbacks and facing defeat are not the same as allowing disrespect. I can’t help you Candice if you have forgotten that after all you have been through.
(Candice just shakes her head.)
Candice Blair: Then why hasn’t anything changed? I have proven on a big stage like Pain for Pride or Territorial Invasion that I can leave significant matches with my hand raised. You have yet to do such a thing. We’re not in the same position, Sayuri. I may just be closer than I’ve ever been to gold, and quite frankly I have no reason to believe you’ll stop me.
Sayuri Himura: But how close are you Candice? It seems to have been in reach for many years at this point, and I admire such tenacity to continue your quest. However, your denial of it is not as respectable. You can try to negate it but we’re in the same boat and only of us can advance. We have both struggled. We both have our reasons for desiring change, but only one of us will have it in us to take the step forward we wish to. I plan on being that woman Candice, and I plan on leaving you disappointed with how our match is going to end.
Candice Blair: If anyone is going to be disappointed, especially someone that is used to it at this point, it’s you Sayuri. You’ve been dealing with disappointment for so long, it’s only a matter of time before it begins to reflect badly on your famil–
THUD!
Rich Russillo: WOW!
(Sayuri slams an elbow into Candice’s jaw, dropping her to the mat! Candice holds her jaw, meanwhile Sayuri stares at her for a moment, seemingly having finally been gotten to. Sayuri turns and storms out of the ring, frustrated over how that face to face went.)
Thadd Blazevich: I wasn’t expecting that, dude. I think Candice just pushed the right buttons.
Rich Russillo: Candice just got hit in the face by Sayuri as that comment of disappointing her family might have been the last straw for Sayuri! Sayuri has been able to keep her composure throughout this, but Candice might have gone too far.
Thadd Blazevich: Yeah, but look at that smirk on Candice, dude! Candice knows she got Sayuri bro with that last comment. She may have finally gotten under her skin as these two are set for a collision course next weekend at Wicked Games. That could be the kind of advantage Candice wants, or she might not even realize what she’s getting into. This should be a fun one bro.
(As Sayuri walks up the ramp the camera temporarily cuts to the backstage area, to reveal newcomer Daria Vane. Daria is looking quite impressed with how everything went down between these two, giving a slow nod with a smirk on her face. The camera cuts back to Candice following this. The final moments sees Candice’s smirk before the segment fades off and Voltage continues elsewhere.)
(Sunday Night Voltage returns to show a shot of the Belgrade Arena, as the sounds of ‘Let Me Hear’ by Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas begin to play through the speakers. The crowd begins to boo loudly as the camera goes over to the stage to reveal Saori Aizen as she makes her way out. She has a serious expression on her face as she glares at the ring, taking a moment before beginning to make her way down the ramp.)
Bella Braxton: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… the EAW SPECIALISTS CHAMPION!!!!!!!!! SAORIII AIIIIZENNNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rich Russillo: Saori Aizen is one week away from defending the Specialists Championship in a highly contested fatal four-way against some of the best females from all three brands, and needless to say… there’s a lot on her mind.
Thadd Blazevich: Last week, she and ARIA earned the right to pick the stipulation for the title match, and right away we knew that was going to be a point of contention, bro. Neither of them likes each other, which means neither of them is going to listen to what the other has to say!
Persephone: We’re Voltage. Just choose some bloody, gory stipulation and let’s move on with our lives; it’s not really that difficult.
(Saori makes her way up the steps and onto the apron as she enters into the ring. She makes her way over and takes a microphone from the ringside area as ‘Let Me Hear’ begins to come to a close. As she turns and heads toward the center of the ring, she takes a moment before beginning to speak.)
Saori Aizen: There is a clear divide between myself and my opponents for Wicked Games, and I mean… Why wouldn’t there be? It’s quite the tricky situation that they have put themselves in, being forced to stare down the barrel of the gun and try to put on a brave face. Quite a big ask. Which is why last week went down the way that it did. I did not require the help of that burden of a tag team partner; ARIA served no help for me in my goals, similar to the way that it has been since the beginning of time. I secured the victory on my own, and I got the right to set the stipulation for Wicked Games. The control is in my hands, rightfully so… and now they get to experience exactly why the position that they are in is not a favorable one whatsoever. No, it is one that will mark the end of their ambitions, and the siphoning of their optimism. It is something that will bring me great enjoyment.
(The crowd continues to give a negative reaction, all while Saori lingers with a smirk on her face before going on.)
Saori Aizen: Now… I will not keep you waiting for much longer. You wish to know what the stipulation for this match is going to be, well… I will not allow myself to be degraded to pointless masochism to prove my superiority. This match will be one that is called in the ring, confined by the four corners and nothing else… it’ll be a Steel Cage match.
(The crowd isn’t particularly favorable to this, considering that it isn’t entirely up to Voltage’s standard. Saori smirks, knowing that this was exactly her intention, but before she can go on any further…)
???: Wait, WAIT!
(There’s a loud reaction, knowing exactly whose voice that is. Saori slowly turns her head to look toward the stage, as the camera goes to reveal ARIA running out, looking to stop her before she can get too far. She shakes her head as she makes her way down the ramp, most definitely not agreeing with anything that Saori has to say.)
ARIA: Don’t speak too soon, Saori! You think that you can just come out here and decide what stipulation this match can be???
(Saori thinks to herself for a moment, before nodding her head, almost sarcastically.)
ARIA: Well, you thought WRONG! Because before coming out, I actually just finished speaking to Captain Charisma, and he just made the match official!
(This is what confuses Saori in particular; she raises an eyebrow as she looks at ARIA, slowly raising her microphone.)
Saori Aizen: I didn’t talk to Captain Charisma about anything… What are you doing, ARIA?
ARIA: Actually, yes, *we* did talk to him. Which is why the stipulation of this match will be… an EXPLODING BARBED WIRE ULTIMATE X MATCH!
(The crowd inside of the arena erupts at this, ARIA nodding her head with a smirk on her face, feeling pretty proud of herself right now. Saori, on the otherhand, doesn’t exactly feel the same way…)
Saori Aizen: …
ARIA: Oh, I’m sorry… is there something wrong? It doesn’t seem like you enjoy this very much, do you? Well… that’s just too bad, isn’t it?
(Saori is almost speechless, but before she can even try to respond… ‘Steel Haze (Where Truth Meets)’ by Kota Hoshino begins to play up. The crowd begins to boo loudly as we go over to reveal AKIZA as she makes her way out. She eyes ARIA at the bottom of the ramp before looking up at Saori, who is still inside the ring. She takes a good moment as she slowly saunters down, raising her microphone while her theme fades out.)
AKIZA: I see. It’s been made clear to me that there is a desperate struggle for control going on between the two of you; I can’t particularly say that I’m surprised. But the biggest lesson that you will learn at Wicked Games is that all of that you try to carry with you is null and void compared to the reality that awaits you in just a week. This kind of stipulation, as barbaric as it may be… is not something that I am going to back away from. And while last week did not go to plan, if there is one thing that I am certain about… it’s that Wicked Games will refuse to repeat itself, especially in a match that is bound to bring the best out of all of us.
(ARIA has made her way into the ring alongside Saori as AKIZA slowly makes her way inside, joining the two of them.)
AKIZA: This fight… it is one that I have been waiting for. It is one that I have worked very hard to achieve, and it’s one that I refuse to let go of for anything. I look at the two of you along with the other opponent who joins us in this match, and I see something to sink my teeth into, and that much is something that I relish. I do not expect any of you to be able to understand that, but when the time comes to finally settle our past grievances, we will know for certain who the real Specialists Champion is… an honor that will be bestowed upon me through my own hands.
(AKIZA lowers her microphone, but as soon as she does, ‘Episode X’ by Ado begins to play up. The crowd cheers loudly as we go over to see Airi Miyamune as she makes her way out from the backstage area. She has a smile on her face as she glances around before beginning to make her way down the ramp, raising a microphone in hand and beginning to speak.)
Airi Miyamune: How exhilarating has all of this turned out to be. A Barbed Wire Ultimate X match? Oh… you shouldn’t have. While many others in my position would be scared of such an endeavor, this is actually something that I openly welcome. I am ready for the challenge at hand just as much as you three surely are, but the difference between us is who is going to be able to get the job done… and I fully expect that to go to my hands. I plan to become the Specialists Champion, and even with this task ahead of me, I plan to make sure that this is something that I accomplish to the fullest.
(Airi enters into the ring, not backing down from any of them while she does.)
Airi Miyamune: And I am certain that there are differing opinions as it pertains to that, but frankly… that’s irrelevant to me. If you believe in yourselves, then I fully expect you to give your heart to this match, but that is something that you are going to fail at. Do not get your hopes up for something that is not going to happen, especially in the face of talent such as myself, talent… who you have only seen the beginning of, but not the end. That’s scary.
Saori Aizen: Enough of this pointless babble. What do any of you have to take away from this other than brownie points? None of you, no matter the match that this is contested under, are going to be the Specialists Champion, because it is proven that this is a burden that neither of you is going to be able to undertake.
ARIA: Well, lucky for you, I have been here before. I know exactly what it means to be a Champion, and yes, it has been a long time since those days; it doesn’t change the fact that I know what it takes in order to get the job done. I have the fullest intentions of making up for everything that’s happened by beating Saori once and for all, and if any of you get in the way of that, then just know the same thing is going to happen to you.
AKIZA: The Champion of a bygone era, yes… how intriguing that is. I can’t say that I am very surprised that you see it through that lens, because that’s all you have left. I do not wish for any of you to get your hopes up, because this is not the ideal scenario for any of you… except me. If this is what you anticipate to happen, well then… let it come to pass. For all of these feelings inside of you are fleeting, especially when the title is well out of reach for you to grab onto.
Airi Miyamune: How illogical of it to completely exclude us from contention because we have to be judged by some arbitrary value that you and only yourself can determine. Does that really make sense in your head? Surprising that I am the one with the least experience out of all of you, yet I am seemingly the one who understands this match the most. You don’t want to be the one who gets their hopes up, AKIZA, along with any of you, because it’s going to mean nothing once I’m done.
Saori Aizen: Do any of you really believe in your right minds that you are going to fare in a harsh environment like this? All of you before this were VERMIN; you meant nothing until you were granted this opportunity by Captain Charisma, as he has seemingly done these past couple of weeks to individuals who are not deserving of such a right. If you believe that-
Rich Russillo: AND ARIA HAS HEARD ENOUGH! SHE TURNS AROUND, AND SHE PUNCHES SAORI RIGHT IN THE FACE! The Champ is taken down to the ground as she rolls out of the ring, and this prompts AKIZA to rush at Airi and attack her as well! And this has spilled completely out of control!
Thadd Blazevich: Airi manages to push AKIZA into the corner as she starts to connect with rapid-fire punches directly to the face! AKIZA tries to bring her hands up, but it’s proving to be too much! She shoves her away, but that forces Airi to turn around and get some momentum, running toward the opposite side!
Persephone: BUT SHE’S MET WITH A CLOTHESLINE DIRECTLY TO THE FACE BY A RECOVERING ARIA! She makes her way over and grabs AKIZA by the head before bringing her out of the corner. Both of them are beginning to trade blows…
Rich Russillo: WAIT! From behind! Saori Aizen is back, and she launches off the ropes, connecting to the chest of both ARIA and AKIZA with a Springboard Missile Dropkick! She quickly gets back up to her feet, AIRI charging at her, only for Saori to connect with a palm strike directly to the jaw to take her down to the canvas!
Thadd Blazevich: AIRI clutches her head as she tries to get back up to her feet, but she better watch out…
Persephone: AS RAIMEI HAKKE CONNECTS ACROSS HER JAW! THE KNEE TAKES HER DOWN TO THE GROUND! Saori then turns around as she quickly climbs up to the top turnbuckle, both ARIA and AKIZA trying their best to recover back up to their feet…
Rich Russillo: BUT SAORI LEAPS OFF AND LANDS ONTO BOTH OF THEM WITH HORIZON OF THE CAPTIVATING SKANDHA! THE MOONSAULT CONNECTS! And if they keep their eye off the ball the way that they just did, then there’s nothing stopping Saori Aizen from taking advantage and remaining the Specialists Champion after Wicked Games!
(Saori rises back up to her feet as she glances down, looking around at the unconscious bodies that are littered around her with disdain. She picks up her Specialists Championship from the ground, throwing it over her shoulder before turning around and making her way out of the ring. ‘Let Me Hear’ begins to play back up as it’s the very last shot seen before Sunday Night Voltage begins to fade.)
(Promotional ad for Wicked Games, where the fatal four way for the Specialists Championship will be an Exploding Barbed Wire Ultimate X!
(Sunday Night Voltage continues on as we see Bella Braxton in the ring with a microphone in hand, excited to introduce the following match on the show.)
Bella Braxton: LADIES AND GENTLEMEN! THE FOLLOWING CONTEST IS SCHEDULED FOR ONE FALL…
Crowd: ONE FALL!!!
(We hear ‘SAME SH!T’ by Isaiah Rashad begin to blast the P.A System as Reylin Aloali’i looks focused and ready for tonight’s matchup! He receives a generally positive reaction from the crowd as he makes his way down the aisle and looks towards the ring with an opponent already standing by.)
Bella Braxton: INTRODUCING FIRST… From, Adaleide, South Australia… Weighing at 250 pounds… ‘TOP GUN’ REYLIN ALOALI’I!!!!!
Rich Russillo: Reylin looks prepared for what’s ahead of him in a week’s time when he faces Igon Mordren in a submission match, a rivalry that will finally meet its end at Wicked Games. Reylin on his first day in this company made a statement against Igon and ever since, these two have been at odds with each other for several weeks and with Igon’s disrespect, not believing Reylin is at the level where he is at… He has a lot to prove. Doesn’t he, Thadd?
Thadd Blazevich: Right on broski! Reylin has been put in the Sleeper Hold twice by Igon on route to this match and if he wants to beat Igon at his own game, he gotta find something that will make Igon tap out or at the very least say uncle.
Persephone: I bet you say uncle a lot don’t you, they were roughing you up in Japan?
Thadd Blazevich: Nah that’s what they were saying to me bro.
(The camera pans to ringside, revealing Igon Mordren who is sitting in a chair, watching the upcoming match with a lack of approval on his face.)
Rich Russillo: Anyways… we actually have Igon sitting ringside for this match at home in Serbia, looking to watch and study his opponent Reylin before their massive match next weekend at Wicked Games. It shows you how much Igon is a student of the game and how much he respects the sport.
Persephone: Plenty of people have done this Rich, you moron.
Bella Braxton: AND ALREADY IN THE RING! From Springfield, Illinois… Weighing at 263 pounds… CHAD MASTERSON!
Thadd Blazevich: WOAH BRO! THIS IS A BIG ASS DUDE!! It is almost the same stature as Igon over there. He looks around 6 ‘5, maybe even 6’6… I thought this might be one and done fight for Reylin, but he might have a struggle facing someone of this size. Maybe Masterson bro can earn himself a job here in EAW.
Rich Russillo: We can’t count out Reylin despite that. He’s proven to be one tough elitist and competing against Chad Masterson shouldn’t be any different.
(Reylin enters the ring as he stands in his corner while Chad does the same thing. Soon enough the referee calls for the bell!)
DING! DING! DING!
Rich Russillo: THE BELL RINGS AS THIS MATCH GOES UNDERWAY!! REYLIN GOES FOR A CLOTHESLINE, BUT CHAD MASTERSON EATS IT UP!!! HE CONNECTS WITH AN OVERHAND CHOP RIGHT TO REYLIN’S CHEST!! REYLIN FEELS THAT ONE AS CHAD GOES FOR AN IRISH WHIP!!!
Thadd Blazevich: BUT REYLIN COUNTERS WITH AN IRISH WHIP OF HIS OWN!! IT SENDS MASTERSON TO THE CORNER AS– REYLIN GOES FOR A SUPERKICK!! IT CONNECTS, LEAVING THE BIG DUDE STUNNED AS– REYLIN GOES FOR ANOTHER SUPERKICK, SENDING BRO OVER THE ROPES AND TO THE OUTSIDE!!!
Persephone: Chad lands right on his feet, not happy with how Reylin was able to do that as he slides back into the ring and goes for another clothesline. It connects, taking Reylin to the mat!
Rich Russillo: Chad picks Reylin back up on his feet and is going for a powerbomb and– AND REYLIN COUNTERS WITH A POP-UP KNEE STRIKE!!! IT STAGGERS CHAD MASTERSON AS REYLIN LANDS A EUROPEAN UPPERCUT FOR GOOD MEASURE!!! Masterson bounces back from the ropes, and–
Thadd Blazevich: SWITCHBLADE!!!! THE SAMOAN SPIKE CONNECTS AS CHAD IS ON THE FLOOR! THIS MATCH IS DONE, DUDE!! REYLIN BRO CAN GO FOR THE COVER HERE!!
Rich Russillo: BUT HE DOESN’T! Reylin is staring right at Igon as he gets on top of Chad and– AND LOCKS IN A CAMEL CLUTCH!! HE HAS THE CAMEL CLUTCH SUBMISSION LOCKED IN ON CHAD MASTERSON AS– HE’S TAPPING! HE’S TAPPING!!! THIS MATCH IS OVER!!!
Persephone: Wow that quickly.
DING! DING! DING!
Bella Braxton: YOUR WINNER OF THIS CONTEST BY SUBMISSION… REYLIN ALOALI’I!!!
( ‘SAME SH!T’ by Isaiah Rashad begins to play as Reylin comes up to his feet and gets his arm raised by the referee as he scores the win here tonight. Igon Mordren looks ringside, not looking amazed or anything that Reylin got the win in that fashion.)
Rich Russillo: Despite Chad being a similar size to Igon… Reylin was able to get the quick victory against Chad here tonight and even made the big man tap out to a Camel Clutch submission, showing everyone he’s ready to fight in that submission match against Igon.
Thadd Blazevich: Looking over at Igon… it’s safe to assume even with that submission victory, it’s not really impressing the Warden as– Igon just snatched the mic from Bella Braxton!
(Igon Mordren walks over to the steel steps, staring at Reylin Aloali’i.)
Igon Mordren: Congratulations Reylin… you won a match with a submission! Do you want a participation trophy? Do you want a cookie for your hard earned effort against some bloke from Springfield?
(Igon climbs up the steel steps and wipes his feet on the apron before entering as he continues to talk towards Reylin.)
Igon Mordren: I am not impressed by the fact that you can perform a submission maneuver. I can do a Camel Clutch in my sleep. Matter of fact, that’s one of the first submission moves they teach you when training to become a pro in this sport, it should be expected from most wrestlers. This bum may have been a similar size to me but clearly he must have not been up to par and lacks the true skills and technical abilities that I process. His skillset doesn’t come close to me, so I do not see why I should acknowledge this victory. Come Wicked Games you won’t be able to even lay a finger on me while I have you trapped, begging for mercy!
(Reylin looks like he’s heard enough, shaking his head. He gets a microphone from another ringside official before turning back to Igon Mordren, clearly annoyed after having to deal with him all this time.)
Reylin Aloali’i: Do you just complain about every little thing?… I’m just about ready to shut you up for good Igon because I am sick of hearing you do this every week. We get it. I knew nothing was gonna impress you. Getting a submission win, tapping out a man built just like you after you chose this stipulation to try and screw me over. None of it was gonna be enough for you, ‘cause you’re the type of guy that’d try to brush it off even if I did the same to four more people back to back. All you do is make excuses when things don’t go your way but don’t worry Igon. This was just for me to get ready. A nice little warm up. Next week’s the real deal, and you’re not gonna just be left scrambling to make excuses for my win. You’re gonna be looking for reasons why the Warden, the supposed in-ring genius, went and tapped out.
(Igon hears this and scoffs at that idea, shaking his head.)
Igon Mordren: Please, you won’t even come close to doing such a thing. Do you realize who I am? I am the best wrestler on the planet, I am not some amateur from the middle of nowhere losing within minutes. I am the epitome of what this sport should be and you Reylin aren’t even close to reaching the perfection that is put on display whenever I compete. You don’t deserve to even lace my boots in this ring, because your level is nowhere near close to mine!
Reylin Aloali’i: What, and you think that’s supposed to scare me? Make me back down and forfeit the match? Hell nah, that’s not what we’re doing. I’m not scares of you Igon, and I couldn’t care less if you think you’re “the greatest wrestler on the planet”, because from day one I put a target on your back and at Wicked Games I’m going to make sure I finish what I started.
(This irritates Igon, who begins walking closer to Reylin as he fires back.)
Igon Mordren: You really are an idiot if you believe that… you’re nothing but a little cockroach that just wouldn’t leave me alone no matter how many times I crushed you, but don’t worry. When I make you beg for mercy at Wicked Games I still send you back to utter obscurity and out of my sight! I–
WHAM!
Rich Russillo: AND REYLIN JUST THREW THE FIRST PUNCH AS A FIGHT HAS BROKEN OUT BETWEEN THESE TWO!! YOU KNEW IT WAS GOING TO GET TO THIS POINT AGAIN AS LEFTS AND RIGHTS ARE EXCHANGED BETWEEN EACH ONE ANOTHER!!
Thadd Blazevich: REYLIN GOES FOR A SUPERKICK BUT– IGON COUNTERS AND DELIVERS WITH A OPEN HAND PALM STRIKE!!! AND IGON MAY ALREADY BE LOOKING TO GO FOR A POWERBOMB HERE–
Rich Russillo: WAIT, NO!! REYLIN IS ABLE TO SLIP OUT OF IGON’S GRASP!!!
Thadd Blazevich: REYLIN BRO GETS OUT OF THE POWERBOMB ATTEMPT, AND–
Rich Russillo: SLEEPERHOLD!! REYLIN APPLIES A SLEEPERHOLD ON IGON!! REYLIN HAS IGON’S OWN SLEEPERHOLD LOCKED IN ON IGON, RIGHT HERE IN SERBIA, WHERE IGON HIMSELF IS FROM!!
Thadd Blazevich: IGON IS TRYING HIS BEST TO FLAIL AND ESCAPE THE HOLD, BUT BRO WAS CAUGHT TOTALLY OFF GUARD BY ANOTHER BIG DUDE IN HIS OWN RIGHT!
Persephone: IGON IS STRUGGLING LIKE AN IDIOT!! LOOK! LOOK!
Rich Russillo: REYLIN BRINGS IGON TO THE GROUND, STILL HOLDING THE SLEEPERHOLD AS IGON IS STARTING TO FADE!!!
Thadd Blazevich: TALK ABOUT PAYBACK, DUDE!!
Rich Russillo: IGON IS FULLY PASSED OUT!! THE CROWD IS GOING WILD AS REYLIN IS STANDING BACK UP! THIS TIME IT’S REYLIN PUTTING IGON TO SLEEP, AND IF THIS IS THE REYLIN WE’RE GETTING AT WICKED GAMES, HE MAY BE BEYOND READY FOR THIS SUBMISSION MATCH!!
(Reylin Aloali’i stands over Igon Mordren, who is laid out and unconscious following the sleeperhold. Reylin just slowly nods his head, showing a focused look on his face ahead of his match at Wicked Games. With this, Voltage begins to fade out.)
(Promotional ad for Wicked Games, where Miku Sakai defends the Hardcore Championship against Diamond Dixon.)
(Everyone turns their attention toward the stage as “Nice To Meet Yah” by Asian Doll blares throughout the arena. Diamond Dixon comes marching down the ramp, skipping her usual theatrics as she makes her way toward the ring with a focused look on her face.)
Rich Russillo: Well, here comes Diamond Dixon, and she does NOT look happy! After what happened to her last week, I can’t say I blame her!
Thadd Blazevich: Dude, Diamond absolutely lost it on Kiko Sakai backstage, and Miku made sure she paid for it with that steel chair! Things are getting ugly between these two!
Persephone: And judging by the look on Diamond’s face, I think somebody’s about to get their ass beat. Hopefully.
(Diamond Dixon rolls into the ring and marches toward the opposite side, calling over a stagehand at ringside. The stagehand passes her a microphone through the middle rope, and Diamond takes it before turning to face the stage.)
Diamond Dixon: Aight, cut the music. CUT IT! I ain’t in the mood for all that tonight, because there’s two bitches backstage who apparently got a whole lot of time on their hands, and I’d love for them to come out here and explain themselves. Miku Sakai, Kiko Sakai, bring your asses out here. NOW!
(“Nice To Meet Yah” cuts off as Diamond stands in the center of the ring, staring toward the stage.)
Diamond Dixon: I’m so serious right now, because what the hell is wrong with y’all? It’s bad enough I’ve had to deal with Miku’s annoying ass these past few weeks, but now I gotta worry about her little sister sneaking into my locker room and going through my damn phone? Girl, are you stupid? And the funniest part is that when I caught your ass, you really thought you could talk your way out of it! Like, be so fucking for real. You knew what you were doing, and I don’t feel one bit sorry about what happened to you afterward. Maybe next time you’ll learn to mind your business instead of doing whatever dumb shit your sister tells you to do.
Diamond Dixon: And Miku, don’t think I forgot about you either, because I’m getting real tired of your bullshit. You wanna keep playing these little games with me, sending your sister to do your dirty work and sneaking up on me with steel chairs, but I’m telling you right now, you picked the WRONG bitch to mess with. I don’t care what either of you think you’ve got planned next, because at Wicked Games, I’m getting my hands on you, and that Hardcore Championship is coming home with me. So come on out here, since y’all apparently got so much to say and do when my back is turned. I’m right here.
(“Life Is Short, O Brave Girl” by Hanabie hits, and Kiko Sakai comes stumbling out onto the stage, seemingly pushed forward by Miku Sakai, who follows closely behind with the Hardcore Championship draped over her shoulder and a microphone already in hand. Kiko immediately tries talking Miku out of heading to the ring, clearly not wanting to be anywhere near Diamond Dixon after what happened last week. But Miku couldn’t care less, brushing off her sister’s concerns and telling her to come on. Kiko reluctantly follows as Miku leads the way down the ramp.)
Rich Russillo: Miku Sakai certainly doesn’t seem intimidated by Diamond’s threats! The Hardcore Champion has a smile on her face, and she’s making her way down that ramp like she hasn’t got a care in the world!
Thadd Blazevich: Can’t say the same for Kiko, dude! She’s trying to talk some sense into her sister, but Miku isn’t listening to a word of it!
(“Life Is Short, O Brave Girl” starts to fade out as Miku reaches the steel steps, raising the microphone to her mouth while walking up them, with Kiko following behind.)
Miku Sakai: Oh, for FUCK’S sake, Diamond! Can you shut your stupid mouth for two seconds?! Jesus Christ, I could hear you bitching all the way backstage! What the fuck do you want from me? An apology? You want Kiko to come down here and say she’s sorry? Because that’s not happening, you dumb bitch! And another thing, don’t you EVER put your hands on my sister like that again! I don’t give a fuck what she did to piss you off, you had no reason to beat the shit out of her!
(Miku steps through the ropes and enters the ring, while Kiko stops on the apron. Miku gestures for her to come inside, but Kiko shakes her head and backs down the steel steps instead, deciding to remain at ringside.)
Diamond Dixon: Girl, you cannot be serious right now. YOUR sister broke into MY locker room, went through MY phone, and somehow I’m the one who crossed the line? See, this is exactly what I’m talking about with you. You wanna do whatever the hell you please, but the second somebody gives you that same energy back, suddenly it’s a problem. Please. You better be glad I stopped when I did, because I could’ve done a whole lot worse to her.
Miku Sakai: OH, WOW! Look at you! Congratulations on beating up somebody who isn’t even a wrestler! Do you want a fucking medal for that? Because I’m pretty sure that’s the most impressive thing you’ve done since coming back to EAW! And you wanna know something else? I don’t even understand why I’m supposed to take you seriously! You don’t belong in this title picture, Diamond! You’re just some loudmouth bitch who thinks she’s entitled to my championship because she finally decided to give wrestling another shot!
Diamond Dixon: And yet you’ve been going out of your way to make my life difficult ever since I became number one contender. Funny how that works, huh? You can keep telling yourself I’m not a threat, but I earned my opportunity, and I ain’t about to let you or your little sister screw that up for me. At Wicked Games, I’m taking that Hardcore Championship, and there’s nothing either of you can do about it.
Miku Sakai: Oh my GOD, would you shut the fuck up about Wicked Games already?! You keep talking about taking my championship like it’s some guaranteed fucking thing! Maybe you should be a little more careful about what you say to me, Diamond, because unless you’ve forgotten, I walked out of your locker room with something pretty important last week. You know, that little phone of yours? And HOLY SHIT, the things I’ve seen on there! I had no idea you and Cosmo were getting up to all that!
(Miku starts laughing, clearly pleased with herself, while Kiko looks uncomfortable at ringside. Diamond, however, doesn’t seem nearly as embarrassed as Miku had hoped.)
Diamond Dixon: Show the pics, pussy, and yall can see why I kept tryin’ to give Cosmo a chance!
(The crowd erupts at Diamond’s response, briefly catching Miku off guard.)
Diamond Dixon: Girl, you really thought you had something there, huh? Like I’m supposed to be embarrassed because you found pictures of me and a grown ass man doing grown ass things? Please. Go ahead and show everybody if that’s what you wanna do, but don’t think for one second that’s gonna change what happens when I get my hands on you. All you’re doing is giving me another reason to beat your ass.
Miku Sakai: YOU THINK I GIVE A FUCK?! Bitch, I’ve been doing this longer than you, I’ve won more championships than you, and unlike you, I didn’t have to leave this company twice because I couldn’t fucking hack it! I’ve spent FIVE YEARS trying to get back to this position, and you seriously think I’m gonna lose everything I’ve worked for to somebody who couldn’t even stick around long enough to accomplish anything?!
Diamond Dixon: And that’s exactly why losing that title is gonna hurt you so much. I know how badly you wanted to be champion again, Miku, but you ain’t the only one who’s got something to prove. I came back because I knew I had more to give, and I’m not letting another opportunity slip through my fingers. You can say whatever you want about my past, but when Wicked Games comes around, I’m making damn sure you remember what happened when you decided to play with me.
Miku Sakai: Oh, FUCK OFF! You haven’t proved SHIT! You wanna give me some inspirational speech about how you’re finally taking wrestling seriously? Good for you! Nobody fucking cares! You’re not special, Diamond, and you’re sure as hell not taking MY championship!
(Miku steps closer to Diamond, raising the Hardcore Championship between them.)
Miku Sakai: You want it so fucking badly? THEN COME TAKE IT, BIT—
Rich Russillo: OOH! DIAMOND JUST CLOCKED HER!
(Diamond immediately drops Miku with a right hand, sending her crawling into the corner!)
Thadd Blazevich: WELL, DIAMOND’S FINALLY HAD ENOUGH TALKING! SHE’S TAKING THE FIGHT RIGHT TO MIKU!
Persephone: It’s about time.
(Diamond follows Miku into the corner, pulling her back to her feet before hammering away with right hands! But seeing her big sister in trouble, Kiko springs into action, sliding into the ring and jumping onto Diamond’s back!)
Rich Russillo: KIKO’S GETTING INVOLVED NOW! THE NUMBERS GAME IS COMING INTO PLAY AS SHE TRIES TO GET DIAMOND OFF HER SISTER!
(Diamond spins around, trying to shake Kiko off her back before finally throwing her over her shoulder and onto the mat!)
Rich Russillo: AND FROM BEHIND! MIKU CLIPS DIAMOND’S KNEE WITH A CHOP BLOCK! SHE CAUGHT DIAMOND OFF GUARD!
Thadd Blazevich: DIAMOND DROPS TO ONE KNEE, AND MIKU TAKES ADVANTAGE, UNLOADING WITH PUNCHES TO THE FACE! MIKU’S TRYING TO KEEP HER DOWN!
(Miku pulls a stunned Diamond back to her feet from behind, hooking both of her arms behind her back! Diamond struggles to break free, backing herself and Miku toward the ropes as Kiko gets back up and comes charging toward them!)
Rich Russillo: WHOA! DIAMOND SENDS KIKO OVER THE TOP ROPE WITH A BACK BODY DROP! AND NOW SHE BREAKS FREE FROM MIKU WITH A BACK ELBOW TO THE FACE! MIKU STAGGERS BACK, AND DIAMOND RUNS OFF THE ROPES FOR A SPEAR! DIAMOND JUST CUT MIKU IN HALF!
Thadd Blazevich: BUT KIKO SLIDES BACK INTO THE RING! SHE’S STILL TRYING TO HELP HER SISTER, DUDE! KIKO CHARGES AT DIAMOND WITH A RIGHT HAND— BUT DIAMOND CATCHES HER BY THE THROAT!
(Kiko immediately starts begging Diamond to let her go, shaking her head in panic as Diamond lifts her high into the air!)
Rich Russillo: CHOKESLAM! GOOD LORD, DID YOU SEE THE HEIGHT DIAMOND GOT ON THAT?! KIKO JUST GOT PLANTED!
(Miku uses the ropes to pull herself back to her feet, still dazed from the spear. She stumbles away from the ropes, only for Diamond to catch her with a kick to the gut!)
Thadd Blazevich: AND DIAMOND ISN’T FINISHED! THE FACELIFT! DIAMOND HITS THE FACELIFT ON MIKU SAKAI! SHE JUST LAID OUT BOTH SISTERS!
(Diamond quickly gets back to her feet, shouting down at Miku as she lies on the mat. She then spots the Hardcore Championship and picks it up, raising it high above her head as “Nice To Meet Yah” by Asian Doll begins to play. The crowd cheers while Diamond stands tall over the fallen Sakai sisters.)
Rich Russillo: What a statement from Diamond Dixon! She came out here looking for a fight, and she’s leaving with both Sakai sisters laid out! Could this be what we’re looking at come Wicked Games?!
Thadd Blazevich: Dude, Diamond just showed Miku exactly what she’s capable of! But the Hardcore Championship is still Miku’s, and she’s gonna have to fight like hell to keep it!
Persephone: Well, at least Diamond shut them both up. That’s a win for everybody.
(Diamond lowers the Hardcore Championship and takes a moment to look down at it in her hands before dropping it onto Miku, who is still writhing in pain on the mat. Diamond then exits the ring, leaving both sisters laid out as the camera fades elsewhere.)
(Promotional ad for Wicked Games, where a triple threat will be held to determine an entrant into the EAW World Championship Extreme Elimination Chamber.)
(The camera pans around the arena before “RUNITUP” by Tyler, The Creator ft. Teezo Touchdown begins to play, bringing Cosmo Goldworthy out onto the stage. Cosmo looks around with a smug grin before casually strolling down the ramp, trading words with a few fans along the way.)
Bella Braxton: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… COSMO GOLDWORTHY!
Rich Russillo: A big opportunity awaits Cosmo Goldworthy at Wicked Games, where he’ll compete for a spot in the EAW World Championship Extreme Elimination Chamber!
Thadd Blazevich: Yeah, dude! Cosmo’s picked up some momentum lately, and you can tell he’s feeling pretty good about himself!
Persephone: When isn’t he? Hopefully he actually has something worth saying tonight.
(Cosmo hops onto the steel steps and walks up them before entering the ring. He climbs to the top rope in the corner and strikes his pose before dropping back down. Cosmo then grabs a microphone from a stagehand through the middle rope and walks to the center of the ring, slowly pacing back and forth with a smug grin on his face as he prepares to speak.)
Cosmo Goldworthy: Aight, so Wicked Games is right around the corner, and y’all already know what’s at stake for Money Mo. A spot in the Extreme Elimination Chamber, a chance to compete for the EAW World Championship, and an opportunity to finally start makin’ good on everything I’ve been sayin’ since I got here. But before we get to all that, I gotta talk about somethin’, ’ause I caught that little tag team match Ashlynn Quinn and Cynthia Valice had last week, and man, what the FUCK was that?
(Cosmo laughs, shaking his head.)
Cosmo Goldworthy: Nah, I’m serious, bruh. Y’all couldn’t even get through one match without embarrassin’ yourselves? Cynthia damn near kicked Ashlynn’s head off, Ashlynn got pinned, and then she decided to throw a tantrum afterward. I mean, shit, if that’s what I’m up against at Wicked Games, what the hell am I supposed to be worried about? I’ve won my last two matches, I’m finally gettin’ some momentum behind me, and I ain’t about to let another opportunity slip through my fingers. Especially not because of two women who can’t even get through a damn tag match without fallin’ apart.
Cosmo Goldworthy: So whatever problems y’all got with each other, that’s your business. I’m focused on gettin’ myself into that Chamber, and neither one of y’all is about to change that. Matter of fact, let me make somethin’ real clear before either of you gets any funny ideas. You two stupid ass, white privilege bitches ain’t about to get in the way of me and my potential. Fuck all that.
(“Tears” by Sabrina Carpenter plays briefly as Ashlynn Quinn steps out onto the stage with a microphone in hand. She looks around, taking in the cheers from the crowd before making her way down the ramp and beginning to speak.)
Ashlynn Quinn: Um, EXCUSE ME?! First of all, Cosmo, who the hell do you think you’re talking to?! Because I KNOW you’re not standing in that ring calling Miss Voltage a stupid bitch when you’ve spent most of your career being a disappointment! Likeeee, seriously, babe, you win a couple of matches and suddenly you think you’re better than everybody? Some of us have actually proven ourselves around here, and unlike you, I don’t need two little wins to remind people how talented I am!
(Ashlynn rolls her eyes as she walks up the steel steps and enters the ring.)
Ashlynn Quinn: And since you’re soooo interested in last week, let’s get something straight. That loss was NAWT my fault, honey! I had everything under control until Cynthia decided to kick me in the freaking head, and if she hadn’t messed things up, we would’ve won that match! But whatever, I’m not gonna sit here crying about it when I’ve got bigger things to worry about. Last week was just an unlucky night, and I can promise you that won’t happen again at Wicked Games!
Ashlynn Quinn: I’ve worked way too hard to get where I am now, and this is my chance to take another step toward becoming a World Champion! Imagine Miss Voltage competing in the Extreme Elimination Chamber alongside my handsome Hans! Likeeee, that would be EVERYTHING, and I’m NAWT about to let some UGGO with an inflated ego ruin that for me. So enjoy those two little wins while you can, babe, because you’re not beating me at Wicked Games, PERIODT!
(Both Ashlynn and Cosmo turn toward the stage as “I Was Made for Lovin’ You” by KISS begins to play. Cynthia Valice steps out with a microphone in hand and starts making her way down the ramp, beginning to speak as her music fades out in the background.)
Cynthia Valice: Okay, um, Ashlynn? I was actually planning to come out here and talk about Wicked Games, but after hearing all of that, I feel like there’s something we need to address first. Look, I know last week was my fault, and I’m not going to pretend otherwise! I made a pretty big mistake, and I felt terrible about it. But I tried apologizing afterward, and instead of hearing me out, you decided to attack me! And I’m sorry, but I don’t think that was very fair.
(Cynthia continues down the ramp, looking toward Ashlynn.)
Cynthia Valice: I understand why you were upset, I really do! Nobody likes losing, and I certainly haven’t been having the greatest luck myself lately. But it was an accident, Ashlynn, and I genuinely wanted us to win together. I thought we were on pretty good terms, too, so what happened afterward really caught me off guard. I know we’re opponents at Wicked Games, and all bets are off now, but that doesn’t mean I can just forget about what you did!
(Cynthia walks up the steel steps and enters the ring.)
Ashlynn Quinn: Oh my GOD, Cynthy, are we seriously doing this right now?! Babe, I KNOW you didn’t mean to kick me, but that doesn’t change the fact that you DID! We had that match won, and because of your little mistake, I was the one who ended up getting pinned! Likeeee, sorry if I wasn’t exactly in the mood to accept an apology after getting kicked in the freaking head!
Cynthia Valice: Well, no, of course not! I wasn’t expecting you to be happy, but you could’ve just told me you were angry instead of attacking me! I know I still have a lot to learn, and I’m trying really hard to improve, but I don’t think making one mistake means I deserved that. Especially when you’ve been talking so much about becoming a better person yourself!
Ashlynn Quinn: Um, EXCUSE ME?! Don’t start questioning how much I’ve changed, Cynthia! I’ve worked my butt off to become a better person, and one bad moment doesn’t erase all of that! Besides, maybe you should worry less about my reaction and more about making sure something like that doesn’t happen again!
Cynthia Valice: But that’s exactly what I’m trying to do! I want to get better, Ashlynn, and this opportunity at Wicked Games means a lot to me. I finally have a chance to prove that I belong here, and I don’t want what happened last week getting in the way of that!
Ashlynn Quinn: Well, good for you, babe, but we’re opponents now! I’m NAWT about to hold back just because we happened to be partners last week, and if I have to beat you to get into that Chamber, then that’s exactly what I’m going to do, PERIODT!
Cosmo Goldworthy: AYO, hold the fuck up! Are y’all seriously still talkin’ about this shit?!
(Cosmo steps forward, looking between the two women.)
Cosmo Goldworthy: See, this is EXACTLY what I was talkin’ about! Y’all been standin’ here arguin’ about some tag team match like that’s the biggest problem either of you got right now. Cynthia’s mad ‘cause Ashlynn beat her ass, Ashlynn’s mad ‘cause Cynthia kicked her in the head, and somehow both of y’all forgot there’s another person in this match! And that person just so happens to be the one who’s gonna beat both your asses at Wicked Games!
Ashlynn Quinn: Oh, PLEASE! Nobody forgot about you, Cosmo! Unfortunately, you’ve been running your mouth this entire time, so it’s kinda hard to!
Cosmo Goldworthy: Then start actin’ like it! I don’t give a damn who was responsible for last week, and I damn sure don’t care about either one of y’all’s feelings. I’m tryna get into that Chamber, and neither of you is ready for what I’m bringin’ to Wicked Games!
Cynthia Valice: Well, Cosmo, I don’t think that’s entirely fair either! I know you’ve been doing pretty well lately, and that’s great for you, but we’re all competing for the same opportunity. I’ve had my struggles, sure, but that doesn’t mean I’m just going to give up because you think you’re better than me!
Ashlynn Quinn: And neither am I! Sorry, babes, but there’s only going to be ONE winner, and that’s going to be Miss Voltage! I’ve worked way too hard to let either of you take this moment away from me!
Cosmo Goldworthy: Man, y’all can keep tellin’ yourselves that, but when Wicked Games comes around, I don’t wanna hear a single excuse about why neither of you couldn’t get the job done!
(Cosmo lowers his microphone, and all three begin arguing off-mic, talking over each other as things grow more heated. However, Ashlynn and Cynthia soon turn their attention toward one another, with Cynthia stepping right into Ashlynn’s face! Neither woman looks willing to back down, and Cynthia turns her back to Cosmo as the two continue trading words, completely ignoring him before—)
Rich Russillo: OH! FROM BEHIND! COSMO JUST SHOVED CYNTHIA RIGHT INTO ASHLYNN!
(Ashlynn goes down from the collision, while Cynthia stumbles back, caught completely off guard! Before she can even turn around, Cosmo rushes forward and starts throwing right hands!)
Thadd Blazevich: COSMO’S BRINGING THE FIGHT TO CYNTHIA! HE’S BACKING HER INTO THE CORNER WITH THOSE RIGHT HANDS, AND NOW HE STARTS STOMPING AWAY AT HER!
Rich Russillo: WELL, COSMO SAID NOT TO UNDERESTIMATE HIM, AND HE’S MAKING SURE BOTH WOMEN GET THAT MESSAGE!
Persephone: And Cynthia was just talking about how hard she’s trying to improve, yet she makes ANOTHER rookie mistake by turning her back on him. Brilliant.
(Cosmo continues his attack, throwing another right hand at Cynthia in the corner— BUT THIS TIME, CYNTHIA BLOCKS IT!)
Thadd Blazevich: WHOA! CYNTHIA BLOCKS THE PUNCH! AND NOW SHE’S FIRING BACK WITH RIGHT HANDS OF HER OWN! CYNTHIA’S FIGHTING HER WAY OUT OF THE CORNER, FORCING COSMO BACK TOWARD THE CENTER OF THE RING!
Rich Russillo: AND LISTEN TO THIS CROWD! THEY’RE GETTING BEHIND CYNTHIA AS SHE STARTS TURNING THINGS AROUND! CYNTHIA’S GOT COSMO ON THE BACK FOOT— OOH! COSMO DRIVES A KNEE RIGHT INTO HER GUT!
(Cynthia doubles over from the knee, giving Cosmo a chance to catch his breath. He turns toward the corner, but what he doesn’t notice is Ashlynn Quinn getting back to her feet behind him! AND AS COSMO MOVES OUT OF THE WAY, ASHLYNN COMES CHARGING OUT OF THE CORNER!)
Thadd Blazevich: SPEAR! :damn:
Rich Russillo: ASHLYNN QUINN JUST TOOK CYNTHIA OUT WITH THE BESTIE SPEAR! BUT WAIT A SECOND! I DON’T THINK CYNTHIA WAS HER INTENDED TARGET! THAT SPEAR WAS MEANT FOR COSMO!
(Ashlynn rises to one knee, looking toward Cosmo, who managed to slip out of the ring just before the spear could connect! Cosmo leans back against the barricade, watching the damage from ringside as a grin spreads across his face. Clearly amused by what just happened, he pushes himself away from the barricade and starts making his way toward the ramp, holding his chin as he laughs to himself.)
Thadd Blazevich: DUDE, COSMO GOT OUT OF THERE JUST IN TIME! ASHLYNN HAD HIM LINED UP, BUT CYNTHIA ENDED UP TAKING THE HIT INSTEAD!
Rich Russillo: AND LOOK AT COSMO! HE KNOWS EXACTLY WHAT JUST HAPPENED, AND HE COULDN’T BE HAPPIER ABOUT IT!
(Meanwhile, Ashlynn turns her attention back toward Cynthia, who is still writhing in pain on the mat. Despite knowing the spear wasn’t meant for her, Ashlynn doesn’t seem particularly bothered by what happened. She simply looks down at Cynthia, showing little remorse at first before putting on a look of regret as Cosmo continues making his way up the ramp.)
Ashlynn Quinn: (off-mic) Oops! Guess we’re even now, Cynthy!
Thadd Blazevich: HEY—
(The crowd gets louder, trying to warn Ashlynn as Cosmo sneaks back toward the ring. Before she can react, he grabs her by the ankle and pulls her down onto her stomach! Cosmo then drags her underneath the bottom rope and out of the ring before THROWING HER BACK FIRST INTO THE BARRICADE! Ashlynn hits it sideways before falling to the floor, clutching her back in pain as Cosmo bends down to send her a message.)
Cosmo Goldworthy: (off-mic) Yeah, keep laughin’, bitch! I TOLD y’all not to sleep on me!
(Cosmo stands back up, staring down at Ashlynn before looking over his shoulder at Cynthia, who is still writhing in pain inside the ring. An idea crosses his mind, and Cosmo starts making his way back toward the ring, hopping onto the apron before climbing to the top rope!)
Rich Russillo: Oh no… NO, NO, NO—
Thadd Blazevich: COSMO WITH THE SHOOTING STAR PRESS! KNOCKING THE WIND RIGHT OUT OF CYNTHIA WITH “COSMOLOGY!”
(Cosmo rises to one knee, looking down at Cynthia as she rolls onto her side, coughing and struggling to catch her breath. He gets back to his feet and casually steps over her before turning toward the hard camera, shouting at the crowd as he places one foot on the middle rope and leans over the top rope.)
Rich Russillo: COSMO GOLDWORTHY STANDS TALL TONIGHT! HE’S TAKEN OUT BOTH OF HIS OPPONENTS, AND HE’S MADE QUITE THE STATEMENT AHEAD OF WICKED GAMES!
Persephone: Well, at least ONE of them knows what they’re doing. We’ll see if he can actually win when it matters.
(Cosmo steps down from the ropes and looks down at Cynthia with a smug grin as he walks past her. He then exits the ring and makes his way up the ramp, continuing to gloat as “RUNITUP” by Tyler, The Creator ft. Teezo Touchdown begins to play. The camera fades elsewhere.)
(Promotional ad for Wicked Games, where Damon Lazarus faces Auburn Ware in a Dog Collar match.)
(Voltage returns from commercial break to “Ambitionz az a Ridah” by Tupac, drawing an enthusiastic response from the crowd. TLA steps onto the stage alongside Dr. Bethany Blue, each carrying a Unified Tag Team Championship. The partners tap their title plates together before heading down the ramp, with TLA greeting fans along the barricade as Bethany confidently surveys the audience.)
Rich Russillo: We’re one week away from Wicked Games, where La Farmacia defends the Unified Tag Team Championships against Avril Williams and Carmen Sánchez, as well as Grand Guignol! After the chaos that closed last week’s Voltage, I imagine the champions have plenty to say.
Thadd Blazevich: And don’t forget House of Glass, dude! Jamie Valdez and Haruka Kashimashi went into a Tornado Taipei Deathmatch with BRAE and Cy Henderson. Whether they like it or not, a fight like that takes something out of you before another major match!
Persephone: I’m mostly annoyed that six people are involved and somehow none of them have managed to shut the others up.
(TLA and Bethany enter the ring, raising their championships to another round of cheers. Once their music fades, Bethany lifts her microphone.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: I think it’s time we clear up a few misconceptions. Apparently, allowing people an opportunity to challenge us has convinced half the tag team division that we’re supposed to be frightened of them. Jamie and Haruka demanded their way into our business, Avril and Carmen have been celebrating every step forward like they’ve already reached the finish line, and the last two weeks have turned into a competition over who can create the biggest spectacle.
TLA: Damn, La Doctora ain’t lying! We got everybody talking that championship shit, everybody trying to get they shine, and everybody looking at these campeonatos like they already got their names on ‘em! But y’all see who still wearing the gold, right? ¡La Farmacia, cabrones!
(TLA pats the title on his shoulder.)
TLA: We seen Avril and Carmen put in work. Beat ToXXXin, kept grinding, earned themselves a shot. Respect. We seen Jamie and Haruka start picking up wins and throwing hands with whoever crosses their path. We seen what happened at House of Glass, too. And last week? Man, I had Raven Roberts twisted up in the AR15, about to handle my business, when them two Dynasty chicas decided to jump Bethany at ringside!
Dr. Bethany Blue: An especially foolish choice. If you’re attempting to prove you’re championship material, ambushing someone who isn’t looking might establish that you’re opportunistic. It does not establish that you’re superior. And it certainly doesn’t make me forget your faces.
TLA: Had to come save mi Doctora and give ‘em a taste of that lucha myself. Then Avril and Carmen came swinging, everybody started fighting everybody, and the whole place went loco! Look, ain’t saying none of y’all dangerous. You are. The last couple weeks been cute, real cute. But there’s levels to this shit, and none of y’all measure up to La Farmacia!
Dr. Bethany Blue: Exactly. Both teams have brought their best, and they’ve given us every reason to take them seriously. Unfortunately for them, their best still isn’t enough to take these titles from us.
(“TEFLON DON” by Future cuts through the arena. Jamie Valdez emerges onto the stage, visibly unimpressed, before “Human Graduation” by mercuro announces Haruka Kashimashi beside her. The members of Grand Guignol head to the ring through a chorus from the crowd with microphones in hand, with the toll of House of Glass apparent in their movement.)
Jamie Valdez: Oh, that is adorable. You invite us into a championship match, then spend the next two weeks acting offended that we’re treating it like a championship match. What did you expect? For us to send flowers and politely wait our turn?
Dr. Bethany Blue: Flowers would have shown more class than throwing me across an announce table.
(Grand Guignol climbs up the steps and through the ropes.)
Jamie Valdez: Well, I wasn’t trying to impress you. I was making a point. Haruka and I aren’t showing up just to give your title reign another highlight. We’re walking into Wicked Games to end it. So you can talk about levels all you want, but those titles don’t make you untouchable.
TLA: Never said we untouchable, homie. I said we better. Y’all done got your hits in.
(Haruka raises her microphone, looking past TLA toward the championship resting on Bethany’s shoulder.)
Haruka Kashimashi: You speak as though there is something shameful about exploiting an opening. I find that curious coming from champions who supposedly understand what winning requires. A triple threat match is inherently unstable. You cannot anticipate every interference, control every opponent, or guarantee that the person you hurt will be the person you defeat.
(Haruka allows a faint smile.)
Haruka Kashimashi: That unpredictability is precisely why I want this match. House of Glass offered its own kind of brutality. Wicked Games offers six competitors with conflicting interests, and the possibility of everything unraveling in a single moment. That is not a reason for hesitation. It is an invitation.
Dr. Bethany Blue: How poetic. You enjoy suffering. Congratulations. That doesn’t mean you’ll be the one holding a championship after the bell.
Jamie Valdez: And it doesn’t mean you will either. That’s what you seem unable to get through your heads. There are three teams in this match, not one team plus four people waiting to lose to you.
(“The Best Damn Thing” by Avril Lavigne interrupts before Bethany can respond, and the audience cheers as Avril Williams and Carmen Sánchez step onto the stage. Both carry microphones, and Carmen already looks exasperated by what she’s heard.)
Rich Russillo: Here come the original challengers! Avril and Carmen have watched Grand Guignol force their way into this match, then attack them after last week’s tag team contest. There’s no love lost between these teams.
Persephone: Shocking. Another argument involving the people who argued last week.
(Avril and Carmen enter the ring, positioning themselves opposite Jamie and Haruka. La Farmacia moves back a step, content to let the challengers address one another.)
Avril Williams: I don’t know what’s more ridiculous, that you two are still so smug, or that you’re pretending House of Glass never happened. You just went through a Tornado Taipei Deathmatch with BRAE and Cy Henderson. You cannot seriously believe that has no consequences heading into Wicked Games.
Carmen Sánchez: Seriously! That’s not exactly a relaxing weekend! You’re going to be feeling that match, whether you want to admit it or not. And you still want to act like you can just waltz past us and take the titles? ¡Por favor!
Jamie Valdez: What, now you’re worried about us? That’s sweet. But if you’re counting on us being too hurt to fight, you’re already admitting you can’t beat us at our best.
Avril Williams: No, I’m pointing out that you have been picking fights with everybody and acting like there’s no price attached. There’s a difference. And don’t mistake that for us expecting an easy night, because we know exactly how dangerous you two can be.
Haruka Kashimashi: Then perhaps you should spend less time concerning yourselves with our condition and more time preparing for your own defeat.
Carmen Sánchez: Oh my gosh, do you ever say anything that doesn’t sound like a threat from a haunted doll?
(The crowd laughs, while Haruka’s expression hardens and Jamie rolls her eyes.)
Avril Williams: We’re not backing away from this. We answered the open challenge because we believed we could become champions together, and every match since then has made us more certain of that. Beating ToXXXin meant something. Standing up to you two meant something. We know beating La Farmacia will be tougher than either of those things, but we’re ready to give it everything we have.
Carmen Sánchez: Exactly! We respect what TLA and Bethany can do, even if they’re being a little too full of themselves tonight. And we know you two are capable of making anybody miserable. But you don’t get to decide our ceiling. If Grand Guignol wants to embarrass themselves by assuming the ending’s already written, fine. We’re not sharing that fate. We’re coming to Wicked Games to win those titles!
Jamie Valdez: You wanna talk about embarrassing yourselves? We just beat Cynthia Valice and Ashlynn Quinn last week. Your friends. And when you two ran out afterward, we put you down too. That’s what actually happened, no matter how much you wanna dress it up.
Carmen Sánchez: You won because Cynthia accidentally hit Ashlynn! And then you jumped us from behind while we were trying to help her! Are we supposed to applaud that?
Jamie Valdez: The referee counted three. You don’t get to put an asterisk beside every result you don’t like, baby. And last I checked, nobody gave you an invitation to get involved after the match either.
Avril Williams: Cynthia made a mistake. She’s human. But at least she and Ashlynn were willing to fight you face-to-face, instead of waiting for someone’s attention to be elsewhere.
Haruka Kashimashi: Yet they lost. Your indignation will not erase that. Nor will your friendship rescue you when there are two other teams competing for the same prize.
Carmen Sánchez: Our friendship isn’t some weakness you can exploit just because you don’t understand it. Avril and I trust each other. We don’t need to threaten each other into working together, and we don’t need to attack someone from behind to prove we’re serious.
Jamie Valdez: Keep telling yourself that. You still have to beat us, and so far all you’ve done is talk.
Avril Williams: Funny, coming from the people who marched out here to give another speech about how scary they are.
(Jamie steps closer, and Carmen immediately moves alongside Avril. Haruka slowly closes the distance as well. The audience grows louder as all four women begin speaking over one another, neither side willing to yield.)
Thadd Blazevich: Bro, here we go again! They spent last week fighting at ringside and now they’re about two seconds away from picking up where they left off!
Dr. Bethany Blue: ENOUGH!
(Bethany’s shout cuts through the argument. She steps between the challengers, title in hand, with TLA joining her.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: For people who claim to be focused on becoming champions, you certainly spend an extraordinary amount of time obsessing over each other. Jamie, Haruka, your victory last week counts. Nobody is disputing the referee’s decision. Avril, Carmen, your determination is admirable. But none of you will be handed these championships for winning an argument, enduring a brutal match, or having the most inspiring friendship.
(Bethany raises her championship between the four women.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: These are what you’re fighting for. And the people standing in your way are the ones holding them. You can promise whatever you like. At Wicked Games, we’re going to find out whether any of those promises mean a damn thing.
TLA: ¡Eso! Save all this shit for Wicked Games! Y’all wanna fight each other, cool, but don’t forget who’s gonna be waiting in that ring with you. Ain’t nobody getting points for talking the loudest, and ain’t nobody walking out a champion just because they showed up feeling tough!
(TLA steps beside Bethany, lifting his championship.)
TLA: We wanted competition, and now we got it. Two teams bringing everything they got? That’s what La Farmacia lives for! Bring the crazy lucha, bring the teamwork, bring whatever the hell you learned at House of Glass. Just understand, we ain’t planning to give up a damn thing. When it’s over, the only question that matters is who leaves with these campeonatos. And we already know who we betting on.
(TLA lowers his microphone. Jamie looks ready to fire back, but Haruka quietly lowers her partner’s arm. On the opposite side, Carmen starts forward before Avril stops her with a gentle hand on the shoulder. Both teams instead turn their attention to the championships raised in the center of the ring.)
Rich Russillo: No shortage of confidence from any of these competitors, but they’re out of time for promises! At Wicked Games, three teams will fight over the Unified Tag Team Championships, and only one can walk away with the gold!
Persephone: Finally. They stopped talking. Best part of the segment.
Thadd Blazevich: Just look at ‘em, dude! Nobody wants to blink first, but next week somebody’s gonna have to face the reality of losing that championship opportunity!
(The final shot captures La Farmacia holding their titles high, with Avril and Carmen staring them down from one side and Grand Guignol from the other. Nobody retreats, and nobody offers another word as Voltage fades to commercial.)
(Commercial for the finest of Mexican cuisine: Taco Bell)
(The camera pans to the backstage area. Specifically, in the office of Captain Charisma and Eden Sinclair. The commissioner is out at the moment, but Eden is shown seated at her desk ahead of Wicked Games, finalizing matches for the event until a knock is suddenly heard on the door. Eden turns towards the door, unsure of who the knock could be coming from. She gets out of her seat, walking to the door before opening it, only to reveal…)
Drake Armstrong: Greetings, Eden. I believe you and I have much to discuss.
(Drake Armstrong stands outside of the door, but what catches the attention of Eden is the fact that Drake is holding a briefcase.)
Eden Sinclair: Do we?
Drake Armstrong: Of course. May I enter?
(Eden looks behind her, just letting out a sigh as she opens the door for him. She is already assuming the worst for this conversation given the nature of Drake Armstrong, but against better judgment she chooses to be fair to him as she would the rest of the Voltage roster, giving him the chance to speak for now. She returns to her seat behind her desk, while Drake Armstrong takes the open seat in front of the desk.)
Eden Sinclair: Alright, Drake, I’m going to be honest. I’d appreciate it if you could just get to the point so we can make this quick. What do you want?
Drake Armstrong: On the contrary, this is hardly about me.
Eden Sinclair: That’s not even believable.
Drake Armstrong: And yet, it remains the truth. This is about you, and your title. You are the assistant to the detestable Matthieu Daniels, so while his time in charge of Voltage may have consisted of unrelenting chaos for the majority of his run on this brand, your background does not mirror his. While you’ve inherited many of his flaws, you have a mind for business that he does not– which means you understand risk management. You may be complicit in the injustices of this brand, but even you must have your own limitations. It is part of your responsibility, and truthfully, I find that this aspect of your role is a detail that quite often goes unnoticed. I however, have no intentions of making the same mistake as either of our peers.
Eden Sinclair: Drake, what are you asking from me?
Drake Armstrong: Just a job well done.
(Drake places his briefcase on the desk and opens it, revealing stacks of hundred dollar bills. Eden looks down at the briefcase filled with money, before her eyes dart back to Drake.)
Eden Sinclair: What is this?
Drake Armstrong: When I make my arrival to the Extreme Elimination Chamber official, I do not intend to leave anything up to chance. Grant me the sixth spot in the Chamber, and this is all yours.
(Eden just stares at Drake.)
Eden Sinclair: I can’t believe you’re being serious right now.
(She shakes her head, in disbelief that Drake would actually attempt to bribe her.)
Eden Sinclair: Are you really asking me to hand you the sixth Chamber spot, even though you’re not even in the match?
Drake Armstrong: No, I am not expecting you to merely hand me anything. I did not achieve where I have today through charity. I am proposing that you do what you always have– which is your job. Bronson Daniels is no World Championship caliber Elitist, far unlike myself. I have no doubts that I will crush him like the insect he is next week, so that is not of any concern. The Extreme Elimination Chamber however is unpredictable, and I won’t deny that I’m willing to take whatever advantage possible ahead of such a match. In a brand like this it’s only natural that anyone with any true ambition would do whatever’s necessary to maintain their position at the top, and as I stated, risk management is an essential detail of your job. This is your chance to avoid risking an incorrect winner and another poor World Champion such as the Feebleheart, all while you reap the rewards of–
Eden Sinclair: Get out of my office.
(Drake pauses, before letting out a sigh.)
Drake Armstrong: I don’t believe you understand.
Eden Sinclair: I understand very well–
Drake Armstrong: No, you don’t. You already allowed incompetence and a trivial, petty grudge from Matthieu to deprive me of both the Hardcore Championship and Unified Tag Team Championships. Do not be the fool that Matthieu is. Look at who you’ve allowed as your Champions. Hans Grayson, that vulgar pest Miku Sakai, the Doctor and TLA. How could one ever be proud of such a–
???: Don’t you ever get tired of this, man?
(Drake Armstrong turns towards the open door, not thrilled to see that he’s been interrupted by none other than Bronson Daniels. Bronson isn’t amused whatsoever, annoyed and even frustrated to see the scene unfolding directly after Drake’s interference in his match last week.)
Bronson Daniels: What is this, huh? What are you even doing right now? Wicked Games is only a week away and you still can’t help yourself. Are you trying to bribe your way into the Chamber? Skip our match entirely?
(Drake Armstrong just sighs, getting out of his seat. He shuts the briefcase in front of Eden, taking it with him as he walks towards Daniels.)
Drake Armstrong: Contrary to your foolish assumption, we were actually discussing my future upon qualification for the Chamber– as despite your best attempts, I believe it is still abundantly clear you have no chance against me at Wicked Games.
Bronson Daniels: Yeah? That why you went out of your way to screw me over last week?
(Drake doesn’t respond to this, and this just further annoys Bronson, who scoffs.)
Bronson Daniels: You know what’s really frustrating about all this? It’s not even the fact that you do the things you do. It’s the fact that I don’t even have it in me to be shocked anymore. At one point sure, it was shocking. It was hard to imagine that you’d actually go to such great lengths and stoop to such lows to get what you want, but now I’m just waiting for it to stop. You cost me an important match that once you realized your chances of getting closer to the EAW Championship were in greater danger than ever. You try to bribe Eden Sinclair because you know you don’t have it in you to do anything the right way. You’re one-note, Drake. It’s the same tired old act with you over and over, and I’m tired of it. Eden looks like she’s tired of it. I know everyone who has to watch you do this every week is tired of it. When are *you* gonna realize that enough is enough?
Drake Armstrong: How many times do you intend to ask me such a question, all while you avoid your own self-reflection? I told you last week that you’d fail, and despite your insistence that you have me figured out and you can no longer find yourself surprised by my actions– you still left yourself open for attack. You cannot blame me for your fate if such my actions were to be expected. Your failure was your own, and it was exactly what I promised. You are not good enough. Not last week against your pitiful field of competition, and certainly not next week against me.
(Drake lets out a brief smirk as he says this, but Bronson doesn’t let Drake’s words get to him any more than they already have. Bronson steps closer to him.)
Bronson Daniels: I’m done with this, Armstrong. I have a Championship to win at Road to Redemption, so I’m going to beat you at Wicked Games and your little stunt last week, whatever you were just doing, and all the other games aren’t going to matter. This is your second season on Voltage Drake, and you’ve been in EAW for years at this point. We know what you have to offer at this point. We’ve seen who you are, we’ve seen you at your best, we’ve seen you at your most dangerous, and right now we’re seeing you at your worst. Every week you try something new. Every week you look for an advantage. Every week you try to turn the odds in your favor, and it has blown up in your face every time since Pain for Pride. This isn’t the genius you so often preach of. This is desperation.
Drake Armstrong: Desperation?
(Drake appears taken aback, appalled that Bronson would have the audacity to make such a statement. He meets Bronson at the door, but Bronson doesn’t back down. With the two face to face, Drake speaks with a serious, cold expression on his face.)
Drake Armstrong: What right do you of all people have to question the state of my career? Is it lost on you how pitiful you’ve been since the year began, or have you grown so used to failure that desperation isn’t even capable of running through your veins? You have nothing, Daniels. You *are* nothing. You can’t salvage whatever’s left of your pathetic career. You can’t achieve anything you point your “ambition” towards. You couldn’t even protect that caregiver of yours at the grandest stage of the year.
Bronson Daniels: What did you just say?
Eden Sinclair: Alright, that’s enough.
(Eden Sinclair gets out of her seat, quickly walking over to the door as security guards rush over to the area. Guards begin to get between Bronson Daniels and Drake Armstrong, beginning to pull the two away from each other. Guards hold onto each of the arms of both men, and Eden stands between the two as she speaks.)
Eden Sinclair: We’re not doing this here. Not when Wicked Games is only a week away. You two want to get your hands on each other, I know, but I am not going to watch the two of you tear each other apart in my office and ruin your own match. You’ll get that opportunity *next week*. If you touch each other a single time before your match at Wicked Games, that match will be called off, and neither of you will enter the Extreme Elimination Chamber. Understood?
(Bronson reluctantly nods, not taking his eyes off of Drake Armstrong, who is staring back at Bronson.)
Drake Armstrong: Don’t think I fear your hollow threats, Daniels. You’ll be watching my Championship victory from the sidelines, that much I can assure you.
Bronson Daniels: Think what you want, Drake. We’ve been doing this for months. You have been messing with me since last year. This ends at Wicked Games, and you’ve lost whatever’s left of your mind if you actually believe I’m going to walk into that ring and let you just get away with everything you’ve done. I’m going to end this once and for all at Wicked Games, and for the first time in far too long I’m going to focus on my career with no distractions, no mind games and no strings attached. I don’t care what you do after this. You’re not the kind of guy that learns easily, so maybe you won’t change. Maybe you won’t go from this, but you’ll be away from the World Championship and after all the damage you’ve done to this brand you will end your year with nothing. Right now, I think that’s enough for me. See you at Wicked Games.
(After this, Bronson Daniels pulls his arms away from Drake Armstrong, staring at Drake for a moment before just beginning to walk away. Drake stares at Bronson as he walks off, before just shaking his head and pulling himself away. Drake glares at Eden, showing annoyance before he turns and begins to walk off, carrying his cash-filled briefcase with him. Eden Sinclair just sighs, with a mixture of relief and exhaustion after everything she just had to deal with. From there, Voltage begins to fade from backstage.)
(Promotional ad for Wicked Games, where it all ends for Jake Smith and Caroline.)
(Sunday Night Voltage returns as the camera focuses on the backstage area of the Belgrade Arena. It’s the usual night for Damon Lazarus and Saori Aizen, with the same level of tension between the two of them that has been prevalent these past couple of weeks, except a lot more visible considering the interactions that they’ve had with one another as of late. They’re outside their personal locker room, getting a breath of fresh air. Saori is seated on a production crate, hands clasped together as she looks down at the ground. Meanwhile, Damon is leaning against a wall, glancing down at her, a blank expression on his face. Nothing is said between the two, at least until Saori opens her mouth.)
Saori Aizen: Even after the week has elapsed, I still do not understand. I tell you to leave that pathetic woman alone, and yet you remain gravitated toward her. At this very moment, I don’t even care about your “unfinished business” or whatever words that you choose to justify it, that’s completely irrelevant. Right now you have shown your hand, in an unusual manner considering you keep your cards close to your chest, as if you *expect* me to have some sort of reaction to all of this…
(Damon cracks his knuckles as he continues to bear a blank expression.)
Damon Lazarus: This is the reaction that you chose to have. It’s not one that I chose for you. If I wanted you to have a reaction, it’d be to mind your damn business and not to question me. You, of all people, should have been acquainted with me enough to gather that I know what the hell I’m doing.
Saori Aizen: But what does this mean for us, Damon? You have made your allegiances clear; you prioritize her much more than you do me. And that is your decision to make; it is not one that I get to make for you, but why continue to lie in this manner? That is the one thing that seemingly does not make any sense to me, and you would understand it if you were in my shoes. But you don’t. Instead, you continue to try and make a fool out of me. Do you believe that I deserve such a thing?
Damon Lazarus: None of this compromises what we have with each other; that does not change, but again, I did not expect you to be the jealous type. Then again… maybe the resentment that you feel toward that girl is proving to be far too much, especially if she gets too close to you.
Saori Aizen: Why wouldn’t it be? I have been unusually subservient to you even when it was against my best interests. At Territorial Invasion, when you chose her to be our partner, I put my pride aside knowing that I trusted you, and it worked, because we won.
Damon Lazarus: Exactly. So why the hell is there a problem now?
Saori Aizen: Because there is no other reason to keep her around once her business is done. But you have developed some form of attraction toward her; it’s something that I cannot seem to wrap my mind around no matter how hard I try. It brings you away from me, and it makes me wonder why I even bother being around you in the first place if you are not going to do the same for me. I know that our vision aligns, our mentality has been the same; it is what brought us toward each other in the first place… so what sense does it make to compromise that toward a broken, unstable woman who would not understand what goes on in your mind no matter how hard you try?
Damon Lazarus: You’re making assumptions that you don’t know for certain.
Saori Aizen: And here you are defending her. Why should I be surprised at this point?
(Damon pushes himself off the wall, approaching her further. Saori stands up, a glare on her face as she looks up.)
Damon Lazarus: The last thing that I need is to be told what to do by ANYONE. I do what I please, but it seems that’s been lost in translation, and I’ve allowed too much grace on that front for far too long; it’s not something that I’m going to let happen again. Now… we can either keep going around in circles, or we can both focus on our respective goals in order to get to where we need to be. You and I know that we have more pressing matters to address rather than bicker like this. I’m sure that’s something that can be easily understood.
Saori Aizen: You could be going after the EAW World Championship right now, but instead you go after her, and you expect me to think that nothing is going on for someone who has stated up and down where his priorities stand. At this point, you can do whatever you choose, because it has been made apparent that my voice does not matter to you; in fact, it appears only one voice matters to you, and it is the one that refuses to listen to you. Is that what you enjoy? Someone who denies you? Someone who tries to run away from you but you force them back? I am not going to be that person for you as much as you want that to be. I will tell you straight exactly what you are doing wrong, and this is exactly that. Do not try to take out your anger on me because I choose to question such a thing; that is irrational. If you wish to have sexual attraction to her, then do that, but do not waste time with me if that is the case.
Damon Lazarus: Look-
(CRACK!)
(Before Damon can even respond to this accusation, something smashes against the back of his head! He crumbles to the ground, and almost immediately Saori is on high alert. She looks upward… to see Auburn Ware standing across from her, looking down at Damon with a lead pipe in her hand, having attacked him from behind with it.)
(Saori immediately sees the writing on the wall: if she attacked Damon, then surely she’s next, knowing the level of disdain that she has for her. She quickly rushes at her!)
(WHOOSH!)
(But steps out of the way as Auburn takes the pipe and swings it her direction.)
Auburn Ware: STAY THE FUCK AWAY!
(Saori, surprisingly, pauses. She doesn’t make a move, a part of her knowing that she’s at a disadvantage without a weapon in her hands. Auburn points the pipe at her, with a pissed-off expression etched on her face as she does.)
Auburn Ware: You stay the fuck away… or you’re going to end up regretting this too.
(Saori doesn’t take kindly to the threat, sneering at her. But as she does, she glances down to look at the body of Damon Lazarus, blood slowly starting to form at the back of his head as it pools down onto the concrete floor. He’s unconscious, having been struck hard enough to take him down for the time being. But knowing that the two of them have had their issues, and that Saori is annoyed enough as is, she figures… why help him fight a battle that he chose to fight at her discretion? That doesn’t make much sense, does it?)
(Saori slowly starts to back off, the gesture being enough for Auburn to lower the pipe down. She drops it to the ground as her eyes completely focus back on Damon. She bends down, patting Damon on his backside, a small smirk on her face as her mouth opens up to speak to her)
Auburn Ware: Practice what you preach. Oh… and watch your back.
(As she stands up, she dusts herself off, resentment beginning to build on her face as she turns around and storms out of the area. Saori watches this scene from a small distance, a glare marking her face as she looks at Auburn… before glancing down at Damon. After a minute, she begins to turn around and make her way out of the scene, but as she does…)
Daniella Atlas: …
(She’s met face-to-face with Daniella Atlas, the two of them locking eyes with one another.)
Saori Aizen: …
Daniella Atlas: I-
(Daniella looks like she’s about to say something to her, but before she can, Saori cuts her off.)
Saori Aizen: … Not now.
(Saori brushes past her, a look of disdain continuing to mark her face after what just happened, as she quickly makes her way out of the scene. This leaves Daniella, who doesn’t try to pursue her, rather just lingering in her own thoughts, before she looks down at Damon’s bloody body. A look of disdain begins to cross her face, knowing exactly what he’s done to cause all this pain for the people around her.)
(It’s the very last shot seen before Sunday Night Voltage begins to fade to elsewhere.)
(The camera cuts to Captain Charisma standing at the head of a table set up in the center of the ring for the contract signing. Two office chairs are placed on one side of the table, with a third on the other. Captain Charisma begins pacing back and forth as he speaks.)
Captain Charisma: Ladies and gentlemen, at Wicked Games, the Universal Women’s Championship will be on the line in a Triple Threat Match between three women who, until recently, stood together as ToXXXin. Tonight, Minerva, Daniella Atlas, and Selina Reyes will have the opportunity to address everything that’s happened between them before making that match official, so without further ado, let’s bring out the three women involved.
(The crowd erupts as “The Clincher” by Chevelle begins to play, bringing Daniella Atlas out onto the stage. She makes her way down the ramp with a focused look on her face.)
Rich Russillo: Daniella Atlas gave up her EAW World Championship opportunity to enter this match, and tonight, she’ll have to confront the two women she once considered family.
Thadd Blazevich: Man, it’s crazy how things have fallen apart, dude. Daniella wanted to keep ToXXXin together, and now she’s fighting both of them at Wicked Games.
(Daniella walks past Captain Charisma, giving him a nod before taking her seat on the right side of the table. She grabs a microphone from the table and leans back in her chair, waiting for the next person. Moments later, “My Own Summer” by Deftones begins to play, bringing Selina out onto the stage. Selina looks around with a stoic expression before raising one finger in her signature pose and making her way down the ramp.)
Rich Russillo: Selina Reyes has made it clear that she’s had enough of Minerva’s treatment, and at Wicked Games, she’ll have the chance to take the Universal Women’s Championship from her.
Persephone: Well, maybe if she stopped losing matches, Minerva wouldn’t have a reason to be disappointed in her.
(Selina poses for the hard camera before looking over her shoulder and backing toward the table. She takes her seat beside Daniella, and the two exchange a brief look before Selina picks up a microphone from the table. Both women turn toward the stage as “Blood, Milk & Sky” by White Zombie begins to play, drawing boos from the crowd. Minerva steps out with the Universal Women’s Championship over her shoulder and makes her way down the ramp, keeping her eyes on the two women waiting in the ring.)
Rich Russillo: And there’s the Universal Women’s Champion, Minerva, who now finds herself defending her title against the very women she brought together to form ToXXXin.
Thadd Blazevich: Yeah, dude, and she doesn’t look too bothered by it either. I don’t think Minerva regrets a single thing she’s done to get us here.
(Minerva approaches the table and places her championship down on it before taking a seat in the empty chair. She looks relaxed despite Daniella and Selina staring daggers at her from across the table. Minerva doesn’t seem bothered by either of them as she picks up a microphone and begins to speak.)
Minerva: Well, isn’t this a beautiful sight? Almost a year ago, the three of us came together with a shared vision. We were going to dominate Voltage, collect championships, and establish ourselves as the future of this business. For a while, we did exactly that, yet here we are, sitting across from one another like complete strangers, preparing to tear each other apart over a championship that already belongs to me. How amusing, especially when I consider how easily all of this could have been avoided if certain people had simply remembered their place.
Selina Reyes: No. We’re not doing this again.
(The crowd cheers as Selina interrupts Minerva, who slowly turns her attention toward her.)
Selina Reyes: I’m not going to sit here and listen to you tell me what my place is supposed to be, because I’ve heard enough of that these past few weeks. I disappointed you, I embarrassed ToXXXin, I didn’t live up to your expectations. I understand that I failed at Territorial Invasion, Minerva. I’ve never denied that, but what I don’t understand is how one loss suddenly gives you the right to treat me like everything I’ve done for this group means nothing.
(Selina grabs the contract and signs her name without hesitation before sliding it toward Daniella.)
Selina Reyes: From the beginning, I was loyal to ToXXXin. I had my own aspirations before this group existed, but I was willing to put them aside because I believed in what we were building. Daniella and I became Unified Tag Team Champions, we defeated some of the best teams this company had to offer, and we helped make ToXXXin a name that people feared. I gave everything I had to this group, and the moment things stopped going my way, you decided none of that mattered anymore.
Minerva: Are you finished, my dear? Because you seem to have conveniently forgotten why we’re having this conversation in the first place. Nobody forced you to lose to Delaney Rhodes, nor did anybody force you to lose to Avril Williams. Those were your failures, Selina, and rather than accepting the consequences, you’ve decided to make Minerva the villain of your little tragedy. I expected better from you because I know what you’re capable of, and I refuse to apologize for holding you to those standards.
Selina Reyes: And I never asked you to apologize for expecting better from me! I expected better from myself, too, but there’s a difference between holding someone accountable and humiliating them in front of the entire world. You slapped me across the face, Minerva. You treated me like I was beneath you, like I hadn’t spent the better part of a year fighting alongside you and Daniella.
Minerva: Oh, but that is precisely where your problem began, isn’t it? You squandered an opportunity to become the number one contender for the Specialists Championship, and when I reminded you of your responsibilities, you allowed your wounded pride to get the better of you. Now you’ve challenged me for the Universal Women’s Championship, apparently believing that defeating Minerva will somehow restore your dignity. You’re only digging yourself into a deeper hole, Selina, and I would have thought you possessed enough common sense to recognize that.
Daniella Atlas: Enough, Minerva. Selina has acknowledged her mistakes on numerous occasions, yet you continue to speak as though she has refused to accept any responsibility. I understand the importance of maintaining standards, but there is nothing productive about humiliating someone who has dedicated herself to the very ambitions you placed before us. That is not the guidance you promised when ToXXXin was formed.
Minerva: And there she is, my darling Daniella, always so eager to come to Selina’s defense. You had the opportunity to challenge Hans Grayson for the EAW World Championship, something you fought to earn at Territorial Invasion, and what did you do? You threw it away because you couldn’t bear the thought of your precious friend facing the consequences of her actions. Of all the decisions you’ve made throughout your career, Daniella, relinquishing that opportunity may very well be the worst.
Daniella Atlas: You are entitled to believe that, Minerva, but I do not regret my decision. Becoming a World Champion has been one of my greatest ambitions, and surrendering that opportunity was certainly not easy. However, I also made a commitment to the women sitting at this table. I believed we were building something together, something that would allow each of us to become better competitors while supporting one another through whatever difficulties we encountered.
Daniella Atlas: I wanted us to move forward, Minerva. I wanted Selina to regain her confidence, and I wanted you to recognize that your treatment of her had gone too far. Yet every attempt I made to reason with you was met with the same arrogance. You have made it impossible for us to move forward while you continue to stand in our way, and that is why I chose to enter this match. I have not abandoned my ambitions, but if taking that championship from you is what it takes to finally put an end to this, then so be it.
(Daniella picks up the pen and signs the contract before sliding it across the table toward Minerva. The crowd cheers as Minerva looks down at the document, but she makes no effort to sign it yet.)
Minerva: How touching. You speak of commitments and friendship, yet you seem to have forgotten who brought the two of you together. Minerva saw something in both of you that others failed to recognize. I offered you guidance, helped turn that potential into success, and now that I have demanded the same excellence that brought you those accomplishments, you’ve decided that I am somehow the problem.
Selina Reyes: You keep saying that like we would have been nothing without you. Daniella and I were successful wrestlers before ToXXXin existed, and we worked just as hard as you did to make this group what it became. You didn’t hand us those Unified Tag Team Championships. We earned them.
Minerva: And yet, despite all that supposed independence, you still needed Daniella to come rushing to your rescue. How fortunate that she’s willing to jeopardize her own future for you, although I wonder how long that generosity will last when she realizes only one woman can leave Wicked Games with the Universal Women’s Championship. Daniella wants that title just as badly as you do, Selina, and I wonder whether this beautiful friendship of yours will survive when one of you inevitably stands in the other’s way.
Daniella Atlas: We are both well aware of what a Triple Threat Match entails, Minerva. Selina does not need me to surrender my ambitions for her sake, and I have never asked her to do the same for me. We will compete against one another if necessary, but unlike you, we understand that wanting the same championship does not mean we have to disrespect one another.
Selina Reyes: Exactly. Daniella and I know what’s at stake, and neither of us expects the other to hold back. But at least I know she respects me enough to treat me like an equal, which is more than I can say for you. You wanted us to be the future of this company, Minerva, but apparently, you only meant that as long as we stayed beneath you.
Minerva: Beneath me? Oh, Selina, perhaps I was mistaken about your potential after all. I wanted you to become one of the very best, but greatness requires discipline, and you’ve demonstrated that you’d rather surround yourself with people who excuse your failures than confront the truth about them. Daniella can tell you how wonderful you are until she’s blue in the face, but it won’t change the fact that you’ve done absolutely nothing to deserve the championship sitting in front of me.
(Minerva finally picks up the pen and signs the contract, taking her time before setting it down. Captain Charisma retrieves the document as Minerva leans back in her chair.)
Minerva: There. It’s official, my dears. At Wicked Games, you will both have the opportunity to discover just how far you still have to go before either of you can stand on Minerva’s level.
Selina Reyes: You really can’t help yourself, can you? I’ve spent weeks listening to you remind me of everything I’ve done wrong, but you haven’t once acknowledged what you’ve done to us. You wanted my loyalty, Minerva, and you had it. I stood beside you because I respected you, but now I see that none of that was ever going to be enough unless I agreed with everything you said.
Minerva: No, Selina. You’ve mistaken my willingness to invest in your future for an obligation to tolerate your failures. I offered you the opportunity to stand beside me, and instead of appreciating what that meant, you’ve allowed your bruised little ego to convince you that you’re somehow my equal. You are not, my dear, and if you insist on learning that lesson at Wicked Games, I will be more than happy to teach it to you.
Selina Reyes: You know what, Minerva? I’ve spent enough time listening to you talk down to me, and I’m not going to let you do it again. You want to keep telling me I’m not your equal? Then stop hiding behind everything you’ve done in the past and look me in the eyes when you say it.
(Selina slams her hands and microphone down on the table before getting up from her chair. She storms around the table as Minerva rises from her seat to meet her, and the two come face-to-face, with Selina angrily talking trash off-mic.)
(Minerva looks Selina up and down, an amused smile spreading across her face. She glances toward Daniella, who has also risen from her chair, before turning her attention back to Selina.)
Minerva: You want me to look you in the eyes, Selina? Very well. You are not my equal. You never were. And the fact that you needed Daniella to sacrifice her own future just to make you feel better about yourself should tell you everything you need to know.
(Selina’s expression turns furious, and she suddenly shoves Minerva backward! The Universal Women’s Champion stumbles against the table, but quickly regains her footing and responds with a hard slap across Selina’s face!)
Rich Russillo: OH, COME ON! Minerva just slapped Selina Reyes again! We’ve seen how much damage that disrespect has already done to ToXXXin!
Persephone: Well, Selina did ask her to say it to her face. She got exactly what she wanted!
(Selina immediately lunges forward, grabbing Minerva by the hair and driving her backward into the table! The crowd erupts as the two women begin trading blows, forcing Captain Charisma to hurriedly retreat toward the ropes!)
Thadd Blazevich: Dude, this was never gonna end with everybody peacefully shaking hands! There’s way too much frustration between this group now!
(Selina manages to force Minerva against the ropes, repeatedly striking her with forearms! Minerva fires back with a knee to the midsection before grabbing Selina and sending her crashing against the table! Selina knocks one of the chairs aside as she struggles to regain her balance, but Minerva doesn’t get the opportunity to follow up!)
(Daniella suddenly grabs Minerva by the shoulder, spinning her around before connecting with a vicious forearm!)
Rich Russillo: AND NOW DANIELLA GETS INVOLVED! Minerva has spent weeks pushing these two further and further, and tonight they’ve finally had enough!
(Minerva staggers backward, clutching her jaw, as Daniella advances with a furious expression. The champion attempts to strike her, but Daniella blocks the blow and responds with another forearm! Minerva stumbles toward the corner, where Daniella follows, grabbing her by the arm and pulling her forward! Daniella swings for a clothesline, but Minerva ducks underneath it!)
*CRACK!*
Thadd Blazevich: DANIELLA ACCIDENTALLY CLOTHESLINES SELINA REYES, BRO!
(The crowd gasps as Selina, who had been rushing back into the confrontation, is struck across the upper chest and neck! Selina crashes to the canvas, and Daniella immediately freezes upon realizing what just happened!)
Rich Russillo: OH NO! DANIELLA JUST TOOK OUT SELINA! SHE WAS AIMING FOR MINERVA, BUT SELINA GOT CAUGHT IN THE CROSS-FIRE!
Persephone: HA! Oh, that is PERFECT! All that talk about loyalty, and Daniella just knocked her own friend down!
(Daniella looks down at Selina in shock before immediately kneeling beside her, attempting to check on her condition.)
Daniella Atlas: (Off-mic) Selina! Selina, I’m sorry! I didn’t—
(Minerva, meanwhile, has already slipped through the ropes and dropped to the ringside floor. She briefly considers returning to the ring, but upon seeing Daniella desperately attending to Selina, she stops. A slow, satisfied smile spreads across her face.)
Thadd Blazevich: Bro, look at Minerva! She knows exactly what just happened, and she’s loving every second of it! Daniella was trying to help Selina, and now she’s the one who put her down!
(Selina begins to stir, clutching at her upper chest as Daniella continues trying to help her sit up. Daniella glances toward the entrance ramp, visibly furious upon discovering Minerva watching them with a grin. Daniella shouts angrily toward Minerva, but the Universal Women’s Champion simply raises her championship above her head, laughing to herself as she slowly backs up the ramp.)
Rich Russillo: Minerva has spent this entire contract signing questioning whether Daniella and Selina can truly remain united when they’re both fighting for the same championship! And now, after that disastrous accident, she’s leaving Daniella to deal with the consequences!
Persephone: And she didn’t even have to do anything! Daniella handled the hard part for her!
(The camera cuts between Daniella, who remains beside Selina with a mixture of concern and frustration written across her face, and Minerva, who continues watching from the stage. The champion gives one final mocking wave before turning toward the backstage area, leaving her former partners alone in the ring.)
Rich Russillo: The contract is signed, and it’s official! Minerva, Daniella Atlas, and Selina Reyes will collide for the Universal Women’s Championship at Wicked Games! But after what just happened, you have to wonder whether the damage between these three women has already become impossible to repair!
(The final shot shows Daniella helping Selina recover while staring furiously toward the entrance, where Minerva has disappeared.)
(That’s the final shot of the evening as Voltage fades away.)
(EAW logo buzzes.)
