(EAW intro plays.)
(A recap of last week’s events on Voltage are shown, highlighting the matches and the outcomes of each of them. After this, the camera fades to the Wells Fargo Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where tonight’s Sunday Night Voltage is being held. As the camera pans around the arena, the fans are shown screaming and cheering, as the opening pyro shoots from the stage. After this, the camera cuts to the commentary table, where Rich Russillo, Thadd Blazevich and Persephone are seen.)
Rich Russillo: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Sunday Night Voltage! Not just any Voltage either, but the FINAL Voltage before Territorial Invasion! We’re only one week away, and I for one can’t wait to get there. As always I am Rich Russillo, and with me are Thadd Blazevich and Persephone Tsitsipas!
Thadd Blazevich: Bros, I can’t wait. I can’t believe we’re only a week away from Territorial Invasion!
Persephone: I’m not looking forward to it. It’s more annoying having to see a bunch of different brands show up than anything else. Let’s just get this over with.
(Voltage fades to the stage as ‘Kostas’ by Westside Gunn, Conway the Machine & Benny the Butcher hits, bringing about a loud reaction from the fans as the crowd cheers. Cody Maverick begins walking out to the stage, this time alone as he is seen holding a microphone in his hand. Cody has a serious look on his face, and begins walking down the ramp and towards the ring as the fans continue to cheer Voltage’s Brand Warfare team Captain.)
Bella Braxton: Ladies and gentlemen… Please welcome the Captain of Voltage’s Brand Warfare team… COOOOODDDDYYYYYYYYYY MMAAAAAAAAAVVVVVVVEEERRRRRRIIIIIIIICCCKKKK!!!!!
Rich Russillo: Cody Maverick is here ahead of what could very well be a huge victory for him, his Brand Warfare team and Voltage as a whole! Needless to say, the stakes are very high and I think Cody knows it.
Thadd Blazevich: Yeah dude, Cody looks real locked in, and he’s gonna need to be ‘cause Brand Warfare is looking like a real crazy match! I can’t wait for this. It’s gonna be my first Brand Warfare as a commentator bros!
Persephone: And hopefully, you won’t be on commentary for it. Bad enough I have to sit through that match. Last thing I want is to have to hear you during it.
(Cody Maverick makes it down the ramp and climbs up onto the apron. He enters the ring, and as his entrance music fades out, he begins to speak.)
Cody Maverick: I’m not about to beat around the bush here or waste anyone’s time any longer than necessary. I’m tired of dealing with the same thing week after week. Every week it’s another team coming out to screw us over. Every week it’s some big fight starting because nobody can stay on their own brand. Every week someone wants to send a message, and I’m not about to walk into Territorial Invasion as the victim to someone else trying to make a statement. I’m not about to ask for much right now. All I want, ‘cause I know you’re all in the back waiting for your moment to strike anyway, is for the Dynasty and Showdown team Captains to meet me in the ring face to face. No sneak attacks, no jumping me from behind, just meet me inside of the ring. That’s it.
(Cody turns toward the stage as he waits patiently, but he doesn’t have to linger very long before ‘I2I’ by Magnolia Park begins to play through the speakers of the arena. The crowd roars as the camera goes over to the stage to show Unified Tag Team Champions Rex McAllister and Raven Roberts, as Fire & Ice make their presence felt back home on Sunday Night Voltage. They take a look around, a small smile on both their faces as they begin to make their way down the ramp and toward the ring.)
Rich Russillo: Ask and you shall receive. Fire & Ice are here, and it’s a relatively different atmosphere than they’re used to returning home to Sunday Night Voltage. Obviously, considering they’re the Team Captains for Dynasty’s Brand Warfare team, they are in fact the enemy.
Thadd Blazevich: But nobody’s going to deny that they’ve constructed one hell of a team, dude. Yes, are we going to make sure that we kick their ass? Of course! But bro, I love Fire & Ice, I got no qualms.
Persephone: I wish I had that little hate in my heart.
(‘New Devil’ by Asking Alexander begins to play as Daryl Kinkade makes his way out to the stage. This Voltage crowd greets him with a mixed reaction. He blows them off as he starts to head towards the ring. ‘Enemy’ by From Ashes to New interrupts him, and this receives loud boos. Daryl turns around annoyed as Donovan Duke now makes his presence known. He walks right past Daryl in order to take the lead. He tries to order him to follow but Kinkade blows right past him now instead. The two then make their way inside the ring.)
Rex McAllister: Alright, we’re all out here, so let’s cut to the chase. Why did you call us out here for? If you’re thinking of making an example out of us, then we might as well not waste time.
Cody Maverick: The reason I asked you guys to come out here is simple. It’s because I don’t want to make a statement by catching you guys off guard. I wanted to tell you to your faces that Voltage is the team that’ll be winning Brand Warfare.
(This causes loud cheers to come from the crowd, but after hearing this, Raven can’t help but let out a grin before beginning to respond.)
Raven Roberts: Amusing, but while both Rex and I have a fondness for Voltage, we can’t help but disagree at the same time. Dynasty is our home, it’s where our Tag Titles reside, and most importantly, we believe it’s where the best wrestle. That’s reflected upon with our Brand Warfare team, and we’ve stated it before, the last thing that we’re going to do is stand idly by and let all of you get your way with us, because that’s not the case. Tyrone Montgomery entrusted us with being the Team Captains for a reason, and it’s a responsibility that we don’t take lightly. Therefore, the only way that we can fulfill our obligation toward him is if we win this match, nothing more, nothing less. So simply put, that’s what we’re going to do. If there’s a problem with that, then please, feel free to let us know, and we’ll be happy to put it to rest.
Cody Maverick: You won’t need to “let” us do anything. Don’t forget that your team came to our brand to screw us over and you did it more than once. You asked for a fight and we’re gonna give you a fight at Territorial Invasion, because I can’t speak for every single individual on my team but there is one thing I know we all have in common, and it’s that none of us like to lose. We’re all competitive individuals who want more for ourselves, and that means getting up and fighting back once people decide they can start trying to hold us back. Raven, you and Rex are Tag Champs and I’m not gonna take that away from you, but I don’t care how much faith you have in your team. I know I built a winning team, and let’s be honest, it’s not like Showdown is doing much to prove otherwise. They’d be lucky to even make it through Brand Warfare without falling apart.
(The fans cheer, but hearing this annoys both Donovan Duke and Daryl Kinkade. While neither of them like each other, they also don’t want to let this match go to waste, and aren’t the kind of competitors to accept being insulted. With this in mind, Donovan begins to speak up.)
Donovan Duke: For the life of me Cody, I have no idea why they are cheering right now. Team Showdown is far from “falling apart”. No, I am the glue that brings the whole thing together. I am going to lead this team to victory. But leadership is something that team Voltage is sorely lacking. Especially since some loud-mouth punk like you was somehow handed the wheel. You are not leadership material. My team has the experience of having a former Answers World Champion and the longest reigning National Elite Champion of all time. You held it for A THIRD of what I did. You are barely qualified to be a member of your team bud. There is not a chance you can get them anywhere but last place.
Cody Maverick: Right, and this is coming from you? Have you already forgotten what happened last season? I had your number and it got to the point where you had to become something else entirely just to get what you wanted, but clearly that hasn’t done you as much good as you thought, because a year later you’re empty handed once again and back in the same spot you were in before. I don’t care if you doubt me Donovan, I care about winning, and I’m not going to be stopped by two guys who can’t even get on the same page.
(Cody and Donovan stare at each other for a moment, and there’s still clear tension between the two after their time as rivals on Showdown. However, before things could get too heated, Rex McAllister begins to speak once more.)
Rex McAllister: I think we can all agree that we’re not going to get along with all of our teammates, but what matters is whether or not you’ll be able to put that aside to focus on your true priorities. To us? That’s winning Brand Warfare and there’s nobody with better qualifications to get the job done than the two of us. Fire & Ice has a bond that is stronger than anyone else can say in this match, and that’s a hill that I will die on. And both of us, along with the rest of our team, who we crafted with Dynasty’s best interest in mind, are going to fight until we get the job done.
Daryl Kinkade: You want to talk about priorities? Fine bruv. Let’s talk about them. I don’t like Donovan Duke in the slightest. I can admit that. If I had my way, this wouldn’t be the team. I’m not getting my way this time. That is just something I have to deal with. Especially since the fact of the matter is that I have unfinished business with you Rex. And Territorial Invasion provides me with a unique opportunity to put that business to rest. Do you actually believe I am foolish enough to throw that away? You’re dead wrong. We are going to tear Voltage and Dynasty apart.
Rex McAllister: Unfinished business? Daryl, I don’t believe that to be the case, you were the cause of your own destruction, and I’m not to blame for what has happened to you even if you were my protegé. Dreamers dream, Daryl, and as long as you stay the way that you are, that’s all that it’s going to be. I’m not trying to diminish you whatsoever. What I am trying to do is warn you what is going to happen if you continue down this path; it’s not going to go well for you. But that’s not my problem; I’m not trying to look out for you. Right now, my focus is on Dynasty, and my wife can agree that it is the name of the game heading into next week. Again, we’re not looking to stand back and let everything happen right in front of us; we’re looking to fight.
Raven Roberts: And we hope that you three are going to bring the fight to us as well, because not only do we want that for the spirit of competition, but because we are confident in our abilities to handle that. We have tested ourselves time and time again, for years at this point, and we know for certain exactly what Fire & Ice is capable of; that’s exactly why we have these Unified Tag Team Championships around our waist right now. If you have a problem with that, then you’re more than welcome to settle it in the ring, but we promise that this is only going to end one way, and it’s not going to be the way that you’d like it to end.
(Daryl Kinkade looks annoyed after hearing this, and takes a few steps forward before beginning to speak again.)
Daryl Kinkade: It is going to end precisely how I intend it to. Because this season has not exactly gone as planned, right? Especially with what happened at Midsummer Massacre. I am not starting off my season like this. No, I am not going to lose this. I refuse to lose this opportunity. It is about bloody time that things started going my way. I am going to make sure that it does. So, Raven, I don’t care if you are tag team champion. Rex, I don’t need your warnings. There is nothing that is going to stop me winning this match, I don’t care if I drag it across the finish line.
Cody Maverick: Daryl, I may not have the same history with you that Fire & Ice do, but that doesn’t mean I don’t know what you’re going through. I don’t envy anyone that has to Co-Captain a team with Donovan, but let me tell you, you’re lying through your teeth right now. You’re standing in the ring with some of the best EAW has to offer a week before a match where you’ll be surrounded by Hall of Famers, former World Champions and those who have those accomplishments in their future, and you think you’re just going to brush it off because you’ve had a rough time, you’re out of your mind.
Donovan Duke: You’re right, he is absolutely out of his mind. I think everyone can agree on that. But I want to tell you something right now Cody, I don’t care if he is. Because I am not planning on losing this one either. That much the two of us can agree on. At the end of the day I’m still the best this place has, which means that we are going to win. We’re not going to brush off your accomplishments or your insane dreams of one day being anywhere close to a world champion. No, I am a mastermind Cody. I know exactly how to make sure we win this. So yeah, you are going to lose. Because I will not.
(The fans begin to loudly boo Donovan Duke, who just shakes his head as he stops speaking. However, Cody would soon after begin to respond.)
Cody Maverick: Do you think I’m stupid? You don’t have control of this. You’re struggling just like Daryl is, and you’re not gonna get through it just ‘cause you don’t want to lose. None of us want to lose. None of us want to leave this empty handed and we definitely don’t want to walk out of this feeling like we failed in our role as team Captain, but right now what matters isn’t just what we’re planning, it’s what we’ll actually be capable of accomplishing. I’m the newest member of the roster to be named a Captain in this match, and there’s a reason I was trusted for this role. The two of you were only thrown into this because you couldn’t get along, and because Rex and Raven are the Unified Tag Team Champions it’s expected that things will go their way, but I’m ready for this.
Rex McAllister: Exactly, Cody. It’s what we’re capable of, and you mentioned it, we have that proof. Whether you like it or not, we have the best case for being Team Captains out of everyone in this ring right now, and that’s not me trying to disregard any of you as actual threats, this is me saying that all of you are great singles competitors, but you’re looking at the best tag team in the company bar none. And neither Team Voltage or Team Showdown have done anything to prove us wrong. That’s what we bring to the table, and whether you like it or not, I believe that’s the difference maker.
Cody Maverick: Then I guess we’ll see, Rex. Just know I’m not backing down to you two, or anyone else in this match. I’m walking into Territorial Invasion to win.
(The fans cheer, but Daryl Kinkade just shakes his head.)
Daryl Kinkade: Why are you lying to these people? You are walking to have your team absolutely obliterated by me. Territorial Invasion is mine.
Donovan Duke: OURS. He means ours. Because MY team is going to stomp all over you Cody. And we are going to prove you wrong Rex. This year is going to be ours.
Cody Maverick: Look, I made myself clear. I’m not walking into Brand Warfare to lose, and I know my team is ready for this match. TLA and Chris Elite are Hall of Famers. Miku Sakai is a former Champion. Jay Jerry Johnson is a two-time Interwire Champion. I’ve seen what these people can do, and I know, whether I like them or not, that they’re capable of overcoming everyone you throw at us. I’m the only Captain in this match not sharing their leadership with someone else and I’m also the one who has been in this company for the least time, yet I’ve still built the best team possible. Why should I be worried about any of your threats?
(Cody Maverick stares at the four Elitists inside of the ring with him, with a fired up look on his face. Eventually, it’s Raven Roberts that chooses to respond.)
Raven Roberts: From the very moment that we agreed to bring this team back together, Fire & Ice has been focused on not just being successful, but being successful together. It’s something that most teams tend to forget, and being selfish is what leads to self destruction most if not all the time. But Rex and I are each other’s equals, we don’t have anything to prove to ourselves or anyone else, and we’re bringing what got us to that position in the first place to Brand Warfare. Implementing everything that made us successful as a team to the likes of Effy McAvoy, Limmy Monaghan, and Milli Banks, because while not all of us are cut from the same cloth, they bear the same strengths that we do, and that’s what we’re going to use to our advantage. Territorial Invasion is going to be Dynasty’s night and it starts with Brand Warfare, and I can assure you that our team is coming to win-
(Suddenly, a loud reaction comes from the fans in attendance.)
Rich Russillo: WOAH, WAIT A SECOND!!! WHAT THE HELL???
Thadd Blazevich: BRO, THE TAG CHAMPS TOTALLY JUST GOT AMBUSHED!!!
Rich Russillo: AND NOT BY JUST ANYBODY!!! THAT’S DAMIEN KUTCHER AND AKARI KIYOKO!!!! SHOWTIME JUST SLID INTO THE RING AND ATTACKED THE UNIFIED TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS!!!! DID SHOWDOWN HAVE THIS PLANNED??
Persephone: Do you see who the Captains are? No way this was planned. Those two must’ve just been tired of all the talking.
Rich Russillo: WELL EITHER WAY, IT’S NOT JUST SHOWTIME GETTING IN ON THIS!! DONOVAN GOES AFTER THE TAG CHAMPS AS WELL- AND NOW CODY MAVERICK GRABS DARYL KINKADE BEFORE PUNCHING HIM IN THE FACE! CODY AND DARYL ARE BRAWLING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RING AS SHOWTIME AND DONOVAN SEND FIRE & ICE OUT OF THE RING- AND LOOK WHO’S HERE!!!
Thadd Blazevich: XANDER PAYNE IS HERE, AND HE JUST DROPPED REX MCALLISTER WITH A HUGE LARIAT!!! BRO, THIS IS CRAZY!!! SHOWDOWN IS INVADING WHAT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE A CHILL BACK AND FORTH, AND NOW HE’S LIFTING REX UP ONTO HIS SHOULDERS! IS HE GONNA POWERBOMB HIM ONTO THE APRON!???
Rich Russillo: NO, BECAUSE LOOK WHO IT IS!!! LIMMY MONAGHAN JUST HIT XANDER WITH A CHOP BLOCK TO THE BACK OF HIS LEG, CAUSING XANDER TO DROP REX BACK ONTO HIS FEET!!!!
Persephone: Oh, God. Those two have history.
Thadd Blazevich: THEY’RE NOT THE ONLY ONES WITH HISTORY, BRO! MILLI BANKS IS HERE, AND SHE PULLED DONOVAN AWAY FROM RAVEN BEFORE SENDING HIM INTO THE RING POST!!!
Rich Russillo: AND NOW THERE’S EFFY MCAVOY, TAKING OUT BOTH CODY MAVERICK AND DARYL KINKADE WITH A DIVING DROPKICK!!! TEAM DYNASTY IS HERE!!! IT LOOKS LIKE THEY’VE MADE THEIR WAY THROUGH THE CROWD- BUT I DON’T THINK THEY WERE THE ONLY ONES TO UTILIZE THAT KIND OF STRATEGY!
Thadd Blazevich: YOU’RE RIGHT, BRO! TLA IS ON THE BARRICADE, AND HE JUST DOVE ONTO LIMMY, REX AND XANDER!!!!!
Persephone: Okay, this is getting ridiculous now.
Rich Russillo: JAY JERRY JOHNSON IS HERE AS WELL, AND HE GRABS DAMIEN KUTCHER BEFORE SENDING HIM INTO THE BARRICADE!!!!! AKARI KIYOKO TRIES TO GO AFTER JAY AND HELP- BUT THERE’S MIKU SAKAI WITH A LOW BLOW FROM BEHIND!!!!
Thadd Blazevich: MEANWHILE IN THE RING, CHRIS ELITE FLIES AT EFFY MCAVOY WITH A SPRINGBOARD CLOTHESLINE, TAKING HER OUT!!! BRO, THIS IS WILD!!! ALL THE TEAMS ARE OUT HERE, AND I DON’T EVEN KNOW WHAT WE CAN DO ABOUT THIS! THIS IS CRAZY, BRO!
Rich Russillo: MILLI AND DONOVAN ARE GOING AT IT, AND RAVEN MAKES HER WAY OVER BEFORE KICKING DONOVAN IN THE MIDSECTION, LOOKING TO HELP HER PARTNER! MEANWHILE, MIKU AND JAY ARE STOMPING AWAY AT DAMIEN KUTCHER- BUT DAMIEN IS ABLE TO SURPRISE MIKU WITH A RIGHT HAND, WHICH BUYS DARYL ENOUGH TIME TO FLY OFF THE APRON, DROPPING MIKU WITH A DIVING KNEE!
Rich Russillo: JAY AND DAMIEN GO AT IT NOW, MEANWHILE XANDER JUST DRAGGED CODY MAVERICK OUT OF THE RING!!! THIS IS GETTING HARD TO KEEP UP WITH! TLA IS FIGHTING WITH REX AND LIMMY, CHRIS AND EFFY ARE GOING AT IT, THIS IS INSANE!
(Finally security guards rush down the ramp, and there appears to be as many of them as possible. They immediately begin to grab as many Elitists as they can, pulling them all away from each other as the fans loudly boo. Security guards enter the ring to go after Chris Elite and Effy McAvoy, and the rest begin to fill the ringside area, attempting to pull away the fifteen Brand Warfare participants. However…)
Persephone: Is it just me, or is this not working?
Thadd Blazevich: IT’S NOT JUST YOU, BRA! LIMMY WAS ABLE TO PUNCH TLA IN THE FACE!!! MIKU IS STILL TRYING TO GET TO DARYL!!! DAMIEN KUTCHER WAS EVEN ABLE TO FREE HIMSELF FROM ONE OF THE SECURITY GUARDS! DUDE, THEY’RE ALL FIGHTING OFF THE SECURITY!
Rich Russillo: WELL IT’S NOT OFTEN WE SEE SOMETHING LIKE THIS, BUT THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THERE’S THIS MANY PEOPLE FIGHTING!!!!
Thadd Blazevich: CHRIS ELITE IS FORCED OUT TO THE APRON BY THE SECURITY GUARDS- BUT CHRIS BEGINS TO ELBOW THEM AWAY FROM HIM AFTER THAT! CHRIS IS FORCING THE SECURITY GUARDS INSIDE OF THE RING TO BACK OFF- AND NOW HE SPRINGBOARDS ONTO THE TOP ROPE AGAIN, DIVING ONTO ALL OF THEM!!!
Rich Russillo: DONOVAN DUKE SENDS ONE OF THE SECURITY GUARDS INTO MILLI BANKS, USING THE EXTRA BODIES TO HIS ADVANTAGE!!! RAVEN IS ABLE TO FREE HERSELF THOUGH, AND SHE HITS DONOVAN WITH AN ELBOW FROM BEHIND! AKARI KIYOKO AND XANDER PAYNE ARE ALSO BOTH GOING AFTER CODY MAVERICK, I DON’T EVEN KNOW WHAT TO SAY RIGHT NOW!
Thadd Blazevich: REX AND LIMMY SEEM TO HAVE TLA HANDLED, BUT CODY IS TRYING TO PUSH HIS WAY OVER THERE! THIS IS GETTING- HEY, WAIT A SECOND!! WOAH!!!!!
(Suddenly another crowd begins to rush down the ramp, but before the fans can even process what is going on, gas begins to fill the ringside area. Not just any kind of gas, either.)
Persephone: WHAT THE HELL??? IS THAT TEAR GAS??? WHAT’S GOING ON NOW?
(A riot squad can be seen through the smoke, shocking the fans who can actually see everything that’s going on. The Elitists and security guards alike all finally begin to back down, feeling the effects of the tear gas. The fans are shocked, and some of the fans in the first few rows get out of their seats, beginning to back away to stay away from the tear gas.)
Rich Russillo: I THINK THINGS HAVE OFFICIALLY GOTTEN OUT OF HAND! A RIOT SQUAD IS HERE, AND IT LOOKS LIKE IF THE SECURITY GUARDS COULDN’T PULL THIS BRAWL APART, THEY WILL! IT LOOKS LIKE RIOT SQUAD IS HEADING IN, FINALLY BEGINNING TO DRAG THE ELITISTS AWAY FROM EACH OTHER!
Thadd Blazevich: BRO, WAS THAT TEAR GAS??? I DON’T EVEN KNOW IF IT’S SAFE TO STAY HERE, BRO! THAT WAS THE CRAZIEST THING EVER, WHAT THE HELL’S HAPPENING?????
Persephone: I’ll admit. This might be the first time I’ve seen something like this around here.
Rich Russillo: JUST ONE WEEK FROM NOW THESE FIFTEEN ELITISTS WILL TAKE PART IN BRAND WARFARE, AND FROM THE LOOKS OF IT, THEY’RE READY! POSSIBLY TOO READY!!
(There’s a chaotic scene at ringside as everyone struggles thanks to the tear gas. The riot squad is slowly evacuating everyone that got hit away from the area, making sure to apprehend the Elitists involved in that huge brawl. The fans are in disbelief, unsure of what to think after seeing tear gas used to finally break up the brawl. As the riot squad continues to break up the brawl, Voltage fades away from ringside.)
(Commercial for the new “Skate” game with Jake Smith. Now available on all systems.)
(‘God Shattering Star’ by Takashi Baba plays, and the crowd reacts loudly for ARIA as she walks out onto the stage, hyping up fans from both sides before striking her signature pose. But before she can bask in the adulation from the fans too much, ‘Let Me Hear’ by Fear, and Loathing in Las Vegas interjects to equally loud boos. That’s when Saori walks out, and stands directly next to ARIA still striking her pose. Saori looks her up and down briefly before continuing to saunter down to the ramp, and ARIA follows shortly after, hanging back to high five a few fans along the way.)
Bella Braxton: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… SAORI AIZEN AND ARIA!!
Rich Russillo: As you could probably tell from their entrances, ARIA and Saori Aizen are not friends. In fact, they couldn’t be any more opposite from one another. But at Territorial Invasion, they stand united for a common goal, which is to defeat both Minerva and Selina Reyes.
Thadd Blazevich: Tall task, bro. But I think they can get it done. These two ladies are talented in their own right, but we have seen them win as a team before.
Persephone: Yeah, because Team Dynasty interfered, and stuck their nose where it didn’t belong. I’d like to see them keep up their “winning ways” once luck isn’t on their side.
Rich Russillo: The momentum hasn’t been on the side of either ARIA or Saori in recent weeks, being left laying twice in a row. Though, it might light a fire under both women in which we haven’t before.
(Saori enters the ring first, and gets a mic handed to her from an outside stagehand before ARIA enters the ring, then gets a microphone herself. ‘Let Me Hear’ slowly fades out, and Saori rubs her jaw in annoyance, feeling the effects from getting kicked in it last week by Minerva. ARIA starts to get serious as well, and opts to speak first.)
ARIA: Territorial Invasion is right around the corner, and I can’t wait. Because it means finally getting my hands on both Selina and Minerva, something I’ve been itching to do after last week. Props to both women who managed to leave us laying, but that isn’t going to go unchecked. No, as Saori and I plan on enacting our full revenge.
Saori Aizen: She’s right. Selina and Minerva have no idea who they’re messing with, and will be lucky if I decide to end things quickly at Territorial Invasion instead of systematically tearing them apart. After all, it’s only right after the way things ended last time between Selina and myself. I wouldn’t want leave any doubt as to who the better woman is.
(Saori gives an evil wink directly to the camera, knowing Selina is somewhere watching.)
ARIA: As you can tell, Saori and I feel quite strongly about the beatdown from last week. But part of me expected this level of adversity on my way back up to the top. I knew that I’d have to scratch and claw for every inch, especially to get past someone of Minerva’s stature. They’ve done a great job making us look like underdogs heading into the Territorial Invasion event, but I’m more motivated than ever to prove myself, hence why I sought this match out to begin with. Which did throw a wrench into both their plans of facing each other, but I’m going to throw another one in it when they find out it’s a lot harder to make it past me than they realize.
Saori Aizen: Look. Enough talking about Selina and Minerva, because I want the two of them out here. Now.
(Saori and ARIA turn toward the stage area, gesturing for both Selina and Minerva to come out.)
Rich Russillo: Uh-oh. Things are heating up, if Selina and Minerva decide to take the two up on their challenge.
Thadd Blazevich: Cmon, when have you ever known either of them to back down from a challenge?
Persephone: They better not, or else this past speech has been a bigger waste of time than usual.
(‘My Own Summer’ by Deftones garners a momentary cheer from the audience, excited that things are heating up between both teams as Selina makes her way onto the stage area with a microphone in hand. Selina glances around with a stoic expression before “Blood, Milk & Sky” by White Zombie plays next. Minerva stands next to Selina on the stage, and waits for the song to die down before speaking into the microphone she also brought from the back.)
Minerva: Selina and I were expecting the two of you to call us out, just after you got done complaining over how we left you laying last week.
(Minerva pauses momentarily as the crowd goes “ooh” in response.)
Minerva: But now that that’s over, I guess we can finally get down to business. ARIA, I heard you say that part of you expected this. Good, at least there’s some self awareness going on, because the two of you brought this fully onto yourselves.
Selina Reyes: Remember, you weren’t on either of our radars until sticking your nose where it didn’t belong.
Minerva: And that’s been a common theme throughout this “feud,” if you can even call it that. Because it’s been mainly Selina and I putting the two of you in your places, and it’s going to be no different at Territorial Invasion. But you’ve had the audacity to come out here, and be upset at us laying you out last week, then completely gloss over the reason why. ARIA, if there’s anyone you should be upset with, it’s Saori. And Saori? If there’s anyone you should be upset with, it’s yourself for starting that fight to begin with. Really, you were the first to interrupt as well. So, whatever happens… again, you blame yourself. You two dug the graves, and are going to have to lie in it.
Selina Reyes: And every time I think about why I’m missing out on a one-on-one match, and the chance to cement myself against an EAW Hall of Famer at Territorial Invasion, it frustrates me even further. Because it’s either Saori Aizen being upset she got let off easy in our match a couple weeks back, or ARIA choosing this as an opportunity to “re-establish” herself since returning. Something she’s had multiple opportunities to do, and if she hasn’t yet, might as well give up on trying. I mean, facing Miku Sakai at Bloodsport should’ve been it for you. But instead, you got stripped down to your underwear for the whole world to see.
(Selina cracks a smirk, amused. Meanwhile, ARIA isn’t exactly phased from the comment, and leans forward on the ropes to address Selina.)
ARIA: Funny. I’m sure you wanted to get under my skin with that one, but I said victory wouldn’t come easy at Territorial Invasion, and neither will a win over me mentally as well. Bloodsport happened, and it passed. Your suggestion of “quitting” simply isn’t what I’m going to do, especially after the first true obstacle gets thrown in my path.
(Selina rolls her eyes.)
Selina Reyes: Very well. It’s your-
Saori Aizen: “It’s your funeral.” Blah, blah, blah. I mean, you’ve only repeated some sort of variation of that phrase twenty times in the past couple of minutes.
Minerva: So, I guess the point’s been driven home to you there won’t be anyone else to blame for your own shortcomings next weekend.
Saori Aizen: Oh, I won’t have anyone else to blame, but you will, and it goes back to the same thing you’ve been telling us. Because at Territorial Invasion, ARIA and I won’t lose, so this disrespect you’ve been showing is only going backfire.
Selina Reyes: Really?
Saori Aizen: Really. But I didn’t call you out to engage in these pointless back and forths, Minerva. Specifically, I wanted the two of you in this ring, so I could give a sneak preview of what’s to happen at Territorial Invasion
Minerva: Well, Selina and I wanted to spare you after the past two weeks haven’t gone your way. But if you insist, and have such an affinity for punishment, then I’ll let my partner decide on what we do next… Selina, what do you say? Do we join them?
(Both Minerva and Selina look at each other.)
Selina Reyes: Let’s go.
(Selina and Minerva throw their mics down before marching down the ramp. Meanwhile, ARIA and Saori throw the microphones down as well, eager for both women to meet them in the ring.)
Rich Russillo: AND ITS ON! AS SELINA REYES AND MINERVA SLIDE INTO THE RING! ITS TURNED INTO A HOCKEY FIGHT BETWEEN BOTH TEAMS WITH SELINA DUKING IT OUT WITH SAORI!
Thadd Blazevich: MEANWHILE, ARIA AND MINERVA ARE GOING AT IT THEMSELVES!
Persephone: About time something semi-exciting happened.
Rich Russillo: SAORI! SAORI GETS THE UPPER HAND WITH A KNEE TO THE GUT ON REYES, AND TOSSES HER OUT THROUGH THE MIDDLE ROPE! SELINA LANDS ON HER FEET, HOWEVER, AND DRAGS SAORI OUT UNDER THE BOTTOM ROPE!
Thadd Blazevich: SAORI GETS BOUNCED FACE FIRST OFF OUR ANNOUNCE TABLE, AND WHIPPED INTO THE STEPS BY SELINA— NO! SAORI TURNED IT AROUND LAST MINUTE, SENDING SELINA INSTEAD!
Rich Russillo: SELINA GOES DOWN, AND SAORI’S CLEARING OFF OUR ANNOUNCE TABLE! PREPARING FOR SOMETHING BIG AS, INSIDE THE RING, HER PARTNER HAS CONTROL OVER THINGS WITH MINERVA! BACKING HER AGAINST THE ROPES WITH SHOTS TO THE BODY!
Thadd Blazevich: SAORI GRABS HOLD OF SELINA, AND TRIES HOISTING HER UP FOR A POWERBOMB THROUGH THE ANNOUNCE TABLE- BUR SELINA COUNTERS WITH A BACK BODY DROP!
Rich Russillo: SAORI’S BODY HIT HARD!!
(Saori holds her back while pulling herself up with assistance from a nearby corner of the barricade. Selina notices one of the monitors on the ground that Saori removed, and picks it up herself, stalking Saori.)
Rich Russillo: OOH! SELINA JUST CRACKED SAORI IN THE SKULL WITH THAT TV MONITOR! SENDING HER OVER THE BARRICADE INTO THE FAN AREA!
Persephone: Being that close to our fans, yuck.
Thadd Blazevich: ARIA DOESN’T NOTICE SAORI’S BEEN TAKEN OUT, AND CONTINUES HAMMERING MINERVA WITH MUAY THAI KNEES TO THE FACE UP AGAINST THE ROPES AS SHE TRIES TO COVER UP!
**CRUNCH!**
Rich Russillo: OUCH, I HEARD A CRUNCH!
Persephone: Yeah, it might have been ARIA’s knee connecting with Minerva’s nose! :mjlol:
Thadd Blazevich: ARIA TRIES TO WHIP MINERVA OFF THE ROPES! BUT MINERVA WRINGS THE ARM OF ARIA TO COUNTER, AND KICKS HER IN THE GUT!
(Minerva touches her nose, and sees the blood on her hand, which fires her up even further.)
Rich Russillo: ARIA DOUBLED OVER, AND GETS BROUGHT TO THE MIDDLE FOR “ATLAS FALLS!”
Persephone: Guess that’s going to mark a third week. :mjlol2:
Thadd Blazevich: NO! BECAUSE ARIA FLOATS OVER BEHIND MINERVA FOR A REAR WAISTLOCK, AND WENT TO DRIVE HER OFF THE ROPES! BUT MINERVA HANGED ON, AND ARIA ROLLS THROUGH TO HER FEET BEFORE CHARGING RIGHT INTO-
Rich Russillo: “THE DEVILS TOUCH!”
Thadd Blazevich: BIG KICK FROM MINERVA, AND ARIA STUMBLES INTO THE CLUTCHES OF SELINA AS SHE SLIDES IN! SELINA’S GOING FOR THE “ORYX AWAKENING!”
**CRACK!!**
Rich Russillo: SAORI! SAORI JUST SAVED HER PARTNER WITH A SUDDEN CHAIR SHOT TO SELINA’S BACK! SHE MUST HAVE GRABBED THAT FROM THE TIMEKEEPERS AREA ON HER WAY BACK!
Thadd Blazevich: MINERVA RUSHES SAORI- BUT GETS CAUGHT WITH A STEEL CHAIR SHOT TO HER STOMACH!
Rich Russillo: MINERVA DROPS DOWN TO ALL FOURS, AND SAORI RAISES THE CHAIR HIGH FOR ANOTHER- BUT GETS IT GRABBED OUTTA HER HANDS FROM BEHIND BY SELINA!
Thadd Blazevich: SELINA NOTICES ARIA BACK UP, AND TAKES A WILD SWING AT HER! BUT ARIA DUCKS UNDER THE CHAIR, THEN SENDS IT STRAIGHT INTO SELIAN’S FACE WITH A SPINNING WHEEL KICK!
(ARIA slides the chair over for Saori before lifting Minerva up, and throwing her into Aizen.)
Rich Russillo: SAORI SCOOPS MINERVA UP ONTO HER SHOUDLER, AND WHAT’S SHE PLANNING… LOOMING OVER THAT CHAIR…
Thadd Blazevich: “CLOSING FRANTICA!” SPIKING MINERVA ONTO THAT STEEL CHAIR!
Persephone: :mjlit:
(Minerva rolls out the ring as Selina groggily pulls herself up with assistance from the ropes-)
Rich Russillo: SELINA WENT FOR A CLOTHESLINE ON SAORI- BUT SAORI TRAPS THE ARM FOR A SPINNING BACK KICK! DOUBLING SELINA OVER FOR A PENALTY KICK TO THE CHEST, AND ARIA FOLLOWS THAT UP WITH A GERMAN SUPLEX!
Thadd Blazevich: SELINA LANDED HIGH ON HER NECK AND SHOULDERS AS SHE ROLLS THROUGH TO A KNEE WHERE SAORI CHARGES FOR A SHINING WIZARD!
Persephone: Seriously, stay down.
Rich Russillo: SOMEHOW, SELINA IS BACK UP TO ALL FOURS! RUNNING OFF PURE INSTINCT BEFORE SHE’S LIFTED BY ARIA FOR A “TRUE TO THE NAME” ON THE STEEL CHAIR!
Rich Russillo: AND SELINA IS OUT TOO! ARIA AND SAORI WORK TOGETHER!
Thadd Blazevich: AND JUST DID SO QUITE NICELY! MAYBE THIS TEAM CAN WORK AT TERRITORIAL INVASION!
Rich Russillo: Especially if they keep it up at Territorial Invasion!
(Saori and ARIA stand back up, and survey the damage done to their opponents with both Minerva and Selina laid out. After this, the two look to each other, and give a nod of mutual understanding, standing tall as the camera fades elsewhere.)
(The scene fades backstage and Ashlynn Quinn is seen heading towards the lockerroom area. She looks her absolute best tonight in a fitted wine colored dress and black Louboutin heels. She has the New Breed Championship fixed around her waist, and she arrives in front of a door labeled ‘War Games Team’. Ashlynn fluffs her hair and takes a moment to collect her thoughts. She knows that as soon as she knocks on the door, there’s a very distinct possibility that it could be opened by Drake Armstrong and that’s the last person she wants to deal with, not named Candice or Cosmo. Should the worst case scenario happen, Ashlynn is prepared for it, but she’s come to this lockerroom for one reason and one reason only.)
Ashlynn Quinn: KAI! Open the door!
(The New Breed Champion is a lot of things, but subtle is not one of them. She bangs on the door until it’s opened by Hans Grayson.)
Hans Grayson: :mjlol: You know, all you had to do was knock. You didn’t have to scream.
Ashlynn Quinn: Well I wanted Kai to know that I was looking for him and him ONLY! Of course it figures someone else would open the door but at least it’s not that disgusting asshole.
(Hans tries to hide a smile.)
Hans Grayson: Well luckily for you, Drake has yet to arrive. Something about a corporate takeover needing to be completed before Monday. He’s in the parking lot on a Zoom meeting.
(Ashlynn beams as she pushes past Hans and breezes into the lockerroom. Kai sighs and stands up, looking Ashlynn up and down. There’s an awkward silence in the room and finally Hans clears his throat.)
Hans Grayson: Right. ✌️
(Hans exits and shuts the door behind him, leaving Kai and Ashlynn alone. She folds her arms across her chest and looks up at Kai.)
Ashlynn Quinn: You know I totally thought about calling you multiple times but I thought it would be better to have a conversation in person.
Kai Rabeaux: I hear you and I want to talk as well, but I don’t think it’s the right time.
Ashlynn Quinn: Seriously? I can totally admit that I let Drake manipulate me and plant seeds in my head, and you can’t tell me that he wasn’t super awful for doing that. But my question is why did you just like forgive him or whatever for doing what he did?
(Kai glances at the door and then back at Ashlynn. That didn’t go unnoticed by her.)
Ashlynn Quinn: Ew! Don’t tell me that you’re scared of him walking through that door right now.
Kai Rabeaux: Clearly, I’m not, but as I said, this probably isn’t the right time. I know that the situation we’re in right now isn’t ideal, but at the same time, I do understand what Drake was alluding too. He wants to protect the team heading into War Games and as ridiculous as the points he made were, I do see where he was coming from. I reassured you that I was not coming after the New Breed Championship, not while you were the champion, but instead of trusting me and taking my word for it, you let someone else get inside your head and instead of talking to me about it, you assumed Drake’s words were true.
Ashlynn Quinn: Yes, and I’m telling you that I KNOW I was in the wrong. But instead of you acknowledging that, you want to try and brush me off right now because of TiMiNg and that’s like such a pathetic excuse.
(Kai knows that Ashlynn has a point, but the more he thinks about it, the more he knows he does need to focus on the task at hand.)
Kai Rabeaux: You’re right to think that, but look. I’m not going to beat around the bush with you. On paper, I’m the Elitist that looks out of place in War Games, and though that is certainly not the case because I’m the future of this company, I feel as if I have something to prove. It probably is best if I concentrate strictly on the task at hand, and not let anything deter me from that.
(Clearly that’s not what Ashlynn wanted to hear and it shows all over her face. She shakes her, clearly disappointed with Kai.)
Ashlynn Quinn: Yikes.
Kai Rabeaux: If you were in my position, you would see where I’m coming from.
Ashlynn Quinn: What’s that supposed to mean?
(Kai can see that Ashlynn was clearly insulted by what he had to say, although he didn’t mean it in a disparaging way. Unable to help it, he sighs.)
Ashlynn Quinn: You don’t get to sigh! You literally insulted me.
Kai Rabeaux: It was not meant as an insult, Ash. I simply meant that the position I’m in is rather unique for someone who is considered a ‘rookie’ and it could prove to be rather ubiquitous for me. Securing the win in War Games for the Voltage brethren would place me front and center, and thus ensure that I am a focal point of this brand going forward. The EAW and Hardcore Champions would be forced to look over their shoulders and live in fear that at any given moment, I will usurp them and take control of everything going on around me. You are well aware that I have lofty expectations for myself and will stop at nothing in order to achieve them, and if that means I need to pause extracurriculars for the time being, I will do that. That’s all there is to it.
(Ashlynn scrunches up her nose, unable to hide her disdain for the way Kai is speaking to her.)
Ashlynn Quinn: So basically hanging out with me was nothing more than an extracurricular activity, your words not mine, and in the grand scheme of things, literally meant so little to you that you can just forget anything ever even happened. Cool.
Kai Rabeaux: I believe you’re running the risk of overthinking this and that reaffirms that I’ve made the right decision for myself.
Ashlynn Quinn: For yourself, clearly, but me? Apparently my feelings don’t matter, to the point where you just let Drake do whatever he wanted to do, and convince you that I am somehow a detriment to your career. Like that’s honestly so pathetic Kai, because I was starting to really like you. Considering all the people who have come and gone from my life, you can’t blame a girly for being cautious and getting upset when someone tells her that what she believes to be real, might not be so real after all. Or whatever. You clearly know what I mean.
(She puts her hands on her hips and glares up at Kai.)
Ashlynn Quinn: I’m sorry that I ever believed anything Drake Armstrong said to me, and I should have stuck up for you. But clearly, you aren’t willing to go to bat for me and only care about your own needs and success. You’re JUST like Drake Armstrong! And no, that is not a compliment because he’s a total uggo who is going to die alone. I guess you will too.
(Ashlynn tosses her hair and goes to leave. But Kai gently grabs her by the arm. Ashlynn sniffles and turns to face him, but she’s not able to disguise the hurt on her face.)
Kai Rabeaux: When Territorial Invasion is over, we can sit down and have a real conversation. I don’t want to hurt you Ashlynn, but I have to think of myself at the moment. Winning is the only thing I’m focused on, and if you can’t understand that, or even try to see my point of view on this, then maybe we’re not a good fit for one another. We had fun, and I think you’re great. You’re clearly beautiful, but I’m not sure if you see your career in the same light that I see mine.
Ashlynn Quinn: I take my job as Miss Voltage AND New Breed Champion very seriously, thank you so much. I mean, I stepped up and said send me to other brands and let me defend the title and Voltage on the other shows! No one wants to listen to me, though, because I’m just Ashlynn Quinn. It’s so annoying and literally so disrespectful but whatever. You can question me all you want, but I didn’t need to become a wrestler in order to survive. I became a wrestler because I wanted to! I don’t need my EAW salary. I already have my own fortune. The fact that I stayed and stuck it out through so many ups and down, and failed partnerships, actually speaks volumes about me as a person AND as a competitor. So screw you, Kai Roblox, as everyone else calls you. You’re a total douche.
(Ashlynn pulls her arm away from Kai and slaps him in the face for good measure. Kai takes a deep breath and closes his eyes, opening them only to see her storm out of the lockerroom. He’s not angry at her reaction; he’s resigned to it.)
(It’s at that moment that Hans walks back in, chuckling.)
Hans Grayson: Nice handprint.
Kai Rabeaux: I’ll fix it with Ash after War Games. Right now, I don’t need any distractions.
Hans Grayson: Ashlynn’s a distraction?
(Kai rubs his jaw, a smirk spreading across his face.)
Kai Rabeaux: Have you seen her, man?
Hans Grayson: :mjlol: Fair enough.
(That’s when Drake Armstrong comes in, rubbing his hands together with a huge grin on his face.)
Drake Armstrong: Alright. Now that my meeting is out of the way, let’s start going over some strategies I’ve come up with and get prepared to make our final statement later on tonight.
(Hans smirks at Kai, who says nothing. Drake notices that Kai’s face is red and that there’s a faint outline of a handprint.)
Drake Armstrong: Did I miss something?
Kai Rabeaux: No. Let’s focus on War Games.
(That’s all Drake needs to hear and the team gathers into a huddle as the scene fades away.)
(Sunday Night Voltage returns to show the backstage area of the Wells Fargo Arena, as the camera specifically focuses on the office of the Voltage Commissioner, as Captain Charisma is seen seated behind his desk with a calm expression on his face. He’s working away at paperwork as there’s an unusual peacefulness in comparison to the usual chaos and pandemonium. But that’s quickly about to change, as a knock is heard on the door, one that makes him perk up as he takes a moment to compose himself before speaking up.)
Captain Charisma: Come in!
(The door opens as the shot focuses on Chiyo Gedo as he makes his way into the office. He has his arms crossed with a serious expression on his face, as Captain Charisma greets him with a smile before continuing.)
Captain Charisma: Chiyo, glad that you could take the time to join me.
Chiyo Gedo: Why did you call me in here, Charisma?
Captain Charisma: Well, you’re not the only one, Chiyo.
Chiyo Gedo: Hm-
???: LADIES! ONE AT A TIME!!!
(Chiyo immediately scrunches his face in frustration as he turns around, seeing Diego Montana strut into the room with a smile on his face. He leans against a nearby wall, looking over at Captain Charisma before glancing at Chiyo.)
Diego Montana: Who invited this loser???
Captain Charisma: Me. Because we need to talk about Divide & Conquer.
(Chiyo shakes his head in frustration as Diego folds his arms with a cocky grin on his face. Captain Charisma immediately notices the animosity in the room, and quickly tries to get them on track before this can get out of hand.)
Captain Charisma: Look, both of you, take a seat.
(Diego struts over and takes a seat, putting his legs on the desk, which annoys Captain Charisma, but he ignores it. After a fleeting moment of consideration, Chiyo begrudgingly takes a seat next to him.)
Captain Charisma: I know the two of you have issues, but I want to let you both know right now that this isn’t a competition. Whether you like it or not, both of you are on the same Divide & Conquer team, and that’s for a reason. It’s not because one is better than the other; it’s because you both have strengths that are useful in a match like this. You two aren’t just walking into this match as representatives of yourselves; you’re representing Voltage as a whole, and I trust that you can put your egos to the side for just one night to make sure that happens, to make sure that a member of our brand ultimately wins the entire thing. I know you guys can do it the right way, and you know especially that Dynasty is counting on us to carry our weight the same way that they’re going to do for us. I am not going to have you guys starting a fight in my office when there’s a match to be won. Do I make myself clear?
(Captain Charisma has a serious expression on his face, hoping that it’s conveyed to the two of them that he’s being absolutely serious with his speech right now. Diego doesn’t seem to radiate the same energy as Chiyo, though, as he sees an opportunity, leaning forward and chuckling, before looking to respond.)
Diego Montana: You make an excellent point, Mr. Charisma, but in fact, this gives me more of a reason to bring up my next point. You don’t just need a good team, you need good leadership. What is this thing called… “Vynasty,” right? I think I should lead it, because let’s be honest, I’m bigger than this brand. I got everything, everything that my partner here doesn’t. The last thing that we need is someone off the chain who’s on permanent #FRAUDWATCH because he can’t pick up his game. C’mon, you want someone who can sell it, carry it, wrap it up in a bow, and drop it down on Showdown’s head? That’s me. I handle business when I feel like doing shit. You know me, I make moves, I get results.
Chiyo Gedo: Yeah, and I’m sure that worked out really well last week when you cost us the match due to your stupidity.
Diego Montana: Sheesh, get a load of this guy.
Chiyo Gedo: You made a spectacle, you didn’t win the thing that mattered, and that’s the match. You cost us our momentum heading into Divide & Conquer, so all offense taken, I don’t need a performer, I need a partner who treats this match as seriously as I do, and right now, it doesn’t seem like you fit that criteria. So if I were you, I’d watch what I say very closely.
Diego Montana: I think you mean performative, buddy. But hey, I know, respect is earned. But I don’t respect this tough guy act, right now, what I do respect, though, is results. So hey, if you want to impress me, maybe you can back up your words and actually do something with your lame career. Try and shut me up in the ring, but I doubt you’re going to do that because you wouldn’t know what that means, loser.
(Diego smirks as he leans toward Chiyo, trying to purposely piss him off. Chiyo snarls as he looks to speak, but before he can get a word in, Captain Charisma is quick to speak up, quickly realizing that all of this is getting out of hand.)
Captain Charisma: Gentlemen, please, let’s calm down. Chiyo, Diego, I appreciate the passion, I do. But passion without discipline is a liability. Diego, while I’m sure you want to be Team Captain, Tyrone Montgomery and I have already talked, and we made our decision.
Diego Montana: Ohhhh, I see, you both unanimously AGREED that I should lead this team. Thank you. VYNASTY! Right guys??? I mean, I don’t even know who else would be fit to lead this team if not me. This dumbass right here? Nah. David Gideon Smith? Hell nah. Grace De Luca? Maybe if she hits your boy up. 👅✌️ And what’s that other loser’s name? Kevin… Kurt-
Captain Charisma: Kirk Redwood is the Team Captain.
Diego Montana: Comeagain?
Captain Charisma: I didn’t stutter.
(Diego pauses, as he looks visibly confused by this, wondering why Captain Charisma would make such a decision before he turns his head back toward him.)
Diego Montana: Come on, that’s a damn joke. First, you go behind the hottest thing on Voltage’s back and make the decision yourself, and now you pull this BULLCRAP?! Why him???
Chiyo Gedo: Unlike you, at least he’s taking this match seriously. He’s shown up, he’s prepared, and he isn’t here to entertain an ego. That’s the difference.
Diego Montana: You say that like it’s a bad thing, bud. Kevin Redrock is our Team Captain? That’s okay, I’ll make sure that I show him what a true leader is when that bell rings. 💪 And if you people don’t see it, that’s because you’re blind to real talent.
Captain Charisma: This is not subjective. Tyrone and I agreed Kirk Redwood will be our Captain, not because we have any favoritism over him, but because we both know how much a steady hand will help us to victory. Someone who will set the tone and not… derail the strategy. We need cohesion, not chaos.
Diego Montana: Cohesion??? Look, Charisma, I AM cohesion! I bring everything to the table: the heat, the crowd, the momentum. If you want reliable and boring, then that’s fine; then we can all lose because you decided to shoot yourself in the foot. But if you actually want to win, then you’ll reverse that decision right now and make me the Team Captain of Vynasty.
Chiyo Gedo: Diego, you keep pushing… Then I’ll make sure you don’t make it to Territorial Invasion. This is my last warning to you.
Diego Montana: Who the fuck do you think you are, acting fake tough like that?!
(Diego snaps as he stands up from his seat, Chiyo quickly doing the same as both of them get in each other’s face. Captain Charisma quickly stands up from his seat himself.)
Captain Charisma: This bickering stops now. If either of you decides to start a fight in my office, I will have security escort you out. I will not allow personal issues to undermine our brand and its success at Territorial Invasion.
(Diego glances at Chiyo with a glare before turning back over to Captain Charisma, looking to plead one more time.)
Diego Montana: C’mon, Charisma… Look at me, look at the starpower… Let me lead-
Captain Charisma: No. Tyrone and I decided that Kirk Redwood is the captain, and that’s the end of the discussion. You want to argue this, do it in the parking lot with security outside, not in my office.
(Diego thinks about it for a moment before trying to speak one more time.)
Diego Montana: You’re making the wrong call, Charisma. You don’t know what you’re-
Captain Charisma: Diego. Out.
(Diego throws his hands up as he mutters words under his breath, turning around and storming out of the locker room briskly, having been quickly shut down from his usual shenanigans. Chiyo then, as he watches him leave, turns over to Captain Charisma.)
Chiyo Gedo: I will not let him ruin this for me. I’ll carry what needs carrying. I’ve carried worse.
(Captain Charisma nods as Chiyo turns and makes his way out of the scene as well. The Commissioner sighs as he slumps back into his seat, with that being the last shot seen before Sunday Night Voltage begins to fade to elsewhere.)
(Promotional ad for Territorial Invasion, where the Divide & Conquer match will take place.)
(The camera returns to the backstage hallways where production is in a full sprint between the ongoing show and the prep for Territorial Invasion on the horizon. amidst it all, Diego Montana struts through everyone and powers his way down the hallway with a cocky step. He walks right up to one of the doors and pushes through, finding Eden Sinclair on the other side. Eden is hard at work at her desk and looks up in surprise, followed immediately by agitation.)
Diego Montana: Eden, baby I need to to take care of this little Divide and Conquer situation for me.
Eden Sinclair: And what situation would that be?
Diego Montana: You know Captain Charisma trying to hold me back. Letting Kirk Redwood be the captain when we all know it should be me leading the charge! It’s downright disgraceful to have a star of the future like me just play a background role. We need to fix this. And I know you can make it happen. So what do you say? Do it for your favorite roster member?
(Diego slides along the desk and inches himself closer to Eden, who shivers from disgust.)
Eden Sinclair: Not a chance.
Diego Montana: What? Why not?
Eden Sinclair: “Why not?” You ask? Hmmm. Tell me this instead, Diego. Why would I? You have constantly started fights with your only brand teammate. You have made booking this match feel like and uphill task at all times, constantly seen yourself as above even being in it, acted like an ignorant buffoon, and all of that is on top of the fact that you refuse to stop coming to me and talking like we are in some kind of relationship which I can assure you, we are not.
Diego Montana: Oh girl you know I think it’s hot when you play hard to get.
Eden Sinclair: Out. Now.
(Diego puts his hands up apologetically and tries to wave off the concern.)
Diego Montana: Okay, okay. Just, hear me out on this. Please? I will make it quick and I promise I have a real argument here.
(Eden looks him over, then she lets out a sigh and waves her hand.)
Eden Sinclair: Fine. Make your case, say your piece, whatever. Just get it over with.
Diego Montana: I’m just saying that I deserve the chance to lead this team. Kirk Redwood is a guy who’s proven over and over again that he isn’t getting to the next level. Every time he’s had a chance like this, he’s screwed it up. But I’m someone who hasn’t had that chance. I’m not the best team player? Fine. But a lot of that comes down to the fact that I don’t like being forced to answer to people I don’t respect. Would you work with Captain Charisma if you didn’t respect him?
(Eden just stares daggers back at Diego, her eyes like lasers through his skull.)
Diego Montana: What I mean is, how can I follow someone who’s proven to fail? It was the same when you paired me with Chiyo Gedo. He’s been here how long and hasn’t done anything? Years? And yet my career has to be stifled by being lumped in with constant underperformers who don’t have the star power or personality to run things. But I do. Of everyone on this Divide and Conquer team, we both know I’m the one with the most spotlight. I’m the one with the most potential and the most to prove. So why not give me the opportunity to show what I could do at the helm instead of intentionally putting a cap on the team’s potential with a guy like Redwood? Add to that I have to deal with David Gideon Smith’s creepy ass and put up with Grace de Luca’s whiny bullshit and you only have a mix for mediocrity. We need a strong front if you want to bring this home and ride above the limits placed on us by the people who are on the team itself, and wouldn’t it look better for Voltage if it was actually a Voltage representative at the front of it all? Give me this chance, Eden. I promise you that I won’t let you down.
(Eden leans forward, placing her chin wistfully on her fingers. She speaks in a nurturing and reassuring voice.)
Eden Sinclair: Oh Diego… my sweet, sweet Diego.
(Diego’s eyes widen and his smile grows.)
Diego Montana: Yeah?
Eden Sinclair: You let me down every time you open that caterpillar infested upper lip to speak.
(Diego’s face drops as the disappointment sets in.)
Eden Sinclair: Have you not wondered amidst all of that that maybe we want you to learn how to get along with your teammates? To prove that you have some value to bring to this match instead of constantly picking fights with the people you’re supposed to work with? Has it not crossed your mind that the reason Redwood is the captain is because he’s proven that he can operate at the highest level as part of a unit? Or that you’re paired with Chiyo because we believe you can learn a lot from him about being an up and coming elitist? And the same goes for the rest of the team for that matter! David Gideon Smith is considered one of the rookies to watch as this season develops, and Grace de Luca just had a title match at Pain for Pride. All of these people who you so quickly look down on have done things and show potential that we want you to look at and learn from. Every one of them has something up on you and a bigger reason to belong, and yet you think yourself above them with so little time and so little credibility to your name. The answer is no. You will not be the captain. You will participate. And you will be a good team member. End of discussion.
Diego Montana: But I—
Eden Sinclair: END. OF. DISCUSSION.
(Diego tries to speak one more time but Eden points at the door. Diego, dejected, leaves through the door and closes it behind himself. The camera follows him back out into the hallway. Diego takes a few steps before he hears something.)
???: Please…
(Diego looks over and sees Kiko Sakai sitting on a set of stairs nearby, looking intensely down at her phone. Immediately, Diego rubs his hands together and puts on his confident face as he walks over.)
Diego Montana: And what’s a pretty little cherry blossom like you doing all alone over here?
(Kiko looks up, very confused and put off by the comment.)
Kiko Sakai: What?
Diego Montana: I could keep you company, they say I make a good partner.
Kiko Sakai: I… sorry. I’m very busy.
Diego Montana: I hear you, I hear you. I’m busy too. You know… I am the captain of the Divide and Conquer team. So… got a lot on my plate. But I always have time for a beautiful lady such as yourself. I’m generous like that.
Kiko Sakai: (under her breath) Why haven’t they sent me an update yet? Where did they take her?
Diego Montana: What’s that? You want to go somewhere? Hey girl, I can take you wherever you wanna go. The only limit is your imagination. I’ve got this EAW money now. Let Papi Diego take you on a nice trip. I promise you’ll be treated like a princess the entire time, like you deserve.
(Kiko now just ignores Diego, typing furiously on her phone.)
Diego Montana: You just moved from Japan, right? Couple months back? So you must still be getting used to all this. Might be nice to have someone to travel with, someone who can help you on those lonely nights…
(At this point, Kiko forces back tears. She looks directly at Diego with an intensity that almost surprises him.)
Kiko Sakai: Stop it! Just stop it! I have to find out what hospital they took my sister to! In case you didn’t notice, she got tear-gassed earlier and I need to find her so I can take care of her! So unless you can find me an update from medical, or magically know how to track an ambulance to a hotel after it’s already left, then I really, REALLY do not have time for this!
(At that, Kiko gets up and walks off, frantically dialing her phone again as she tries to get ahold of the information she needs.)
Diego Montana: …whoa
(Diego stares at Kiko as she leaves. Once she is gone, he then stares at the hall where she turned to leave. His eyes bounce between the hall and the office door where Eden Sinclair was sitting inside. And at this moment, a very important realization comes to Diego’s mind.)
Diego Montana: Can it be? That I have… TWO one true loves?
(He places his hand on his heart, and drifts into dreams of his two beloveds as the camera fades away.)
(Commercial for vasectomies. Because not everyone should procreate.)
(Voltage fades back in from the backstage area and cuts down to the ringside area. As the fans settle down, ‘RUNITUP’ by Tyler, The Creator ft. Teezo Touchdown begins to blast through the arena.)
Bella Braxton: LADIES AND GENTLEMEN… PLEASE WELCOME THE NUMBER ONE CONTENDER TO THE NEW BREED CHAMPIONSHIP… COSMO GOLDWORTHY!!!
(Boos greet Cosmo as he walks out onto the stage. He pays the crowd no mind as he starts to make his way towards the ring.)
Rich Russillo: I can’t say that I’m surprised to see Cosmo Goldworthy coming out here tonight after what happened last week. During a confrontation with the New Breed Champion, Ashlynn Quinn, Candice Blair struck him from behind and beat him senseless with a steel chair.
Persephone: And it was low key funny as shit because Candice and Ashlynn just argued while Cosmo laid in a heap on the ground :mjlol2:
Thadd Blazevich: It may have been funny to you, but I don’t think the bro was amused, Seph. He was embarrassed last week and Cosmo is a bad bro. I’d hate to be Candice or Ashlynn right now.
(Cosmo grabs a microphone from the timekeeper before sliding into the ring. He gets to his feet, lets his music die down, and he just shakes his head.)
Cosmo Goldworthy: Man. Candice Blair ain’t shit.
(The crowd jeers at this.)
Cosmo Goldworthy: It was cute and all for her to show up and attack me from behind last week, but I’m tellin’ you now, that shit won’t fly come Territorial Invasion. I got every reason to go out there and beat her ass, while I beat Ashlynn Quinn AGAIN. When all is said and done, I expect to leave D.C. as the New Breed Champion and that’s really all I got to say.
(Cosmo pauses for a moment and there’s a thoughtful look on his face.)
Cosmo Goldworthy: I know that’s not enough though. Those two bitches in the back are gonna let my words go in one ear and out the other, so let me go ahead and use this time to get a few things off my chest. I was ridin’ a high after beating Ashlynn and cementing the fact that if she hadn’t gotten her ass involved in my business with Kai, I’d likely be standing here as the 24/7 Contract holder. That victory should have automatically given me a shot at the New Breed Championship but I guess I made the mistake of assuming Voltage worked like a normal brand. My fault, y’all. Candice Blair came around and got one up on me, and fair play to her, but that never took away from the fact I beat the champ. But let Candice tell it and that win of mine was rendered null and void thanks to her victory over me. She showed up and challenged Ashlynn and that shit burnt me right up. The gall. The audacity. Sneaky little opportunist. No shocker to me that she pulled some shit, and no shocker to anyone that Ashlynn wasn’t interested in facing either of us.
(Cosmo rolls his eyes.)
Cosmo Goldworthy: That’s how we all ended up here; in a Triple Threat at Territorial Invasion with the New Breed Championship on the line. In the end, I still got what I want and bet that I’ll be the one making the most of the match. I been waiting for a chance to show out and man, I’m sick of resting on my laurels. I know I got what it takes to make an impact here in EAW and people are gunna put respect on my name before it’s all said and done. I get that I’m new and I gotta prove myself, but I’ve been doing that my whole life. Hell, that’s why I’ve been able to make it this far. I realize there’s no guarantees in life and we all gotta take what we want, so my moment comes at Territorial Invasion and there ain’t shit Candice nor the champ can do about it.
(Before Cosmo can continue, ‘So Far So Fake’ by Pierce the Veil starts to play. The crowd rises to their feet as Candice Blair makes her way out. She has a microphone in her hand and a beautiful smile on her face. She wastes no time and starts to talk as she walks to the ring, causing her music to abruptly cut.)
Candice Blair: Sorry not sorry that I’m actually about to rain on your parade, but I’ve been waiting a lot longer than you to have MY moment. I have the blood of champions coursing through my veins and you’re not the only one who’s had to fight for everything. I know that on the surface, it seems like the Avas have always had a comfortable and privileged life, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. My sisters have spoken openly about our up-bringing and how Cameron is the one who brought us out of poverty, and I hope you understand that I’m every bit as determined as the rest of my family to bring prestige to our name.
(Candice walks up the ring steps and stands on the apron, staring directly at Cosmo.)
Candice Blair: That happens next weekend when I take the New Breed Championship and become a champion for the first time in my career.
(The crowd is solidly behind Candice as she gets into the ring to come face-to-face with Cosmo. She stares hard at him, but he doesn’t flinch.)
Candice Blair: I get that I have enough years behind me that I could have chosen any championship to go after. Believe me, I thought long and hard about what I wanted to do this season. Winning a title was a no brainer, but which one? At this point, it doesn’t matter. I have never been the type to see any championship as something that’s below me, and honestly, the New Breed Championship, especially in recent seasons, has become a coveted title. It’s not just for rookies. The term ‘New Breed’ represents so much more in my opinion. It’s perfect for someone like me who just wants to win and be the best possible competitor she can be. And truth be told, Cosmo, it’s also perfect for someone like you.
(Candice’s stern expression softens.)
Candice Blair: You’re a fighter, just like me, and have already proven you’re willing to take on anyone and everyone. I may not LIKE you, but I respect YOU, at least as a competitor. That’s why I was determined to make my victory over you count.
Cosmo Goldworthy: So you decided to jump the line and stake your claim to a title that I really earned the shot at.
Candice Blair: Call it how you want, but I did what I had to do. I have played nice and fair my entire career and it’s gotten me nothing but a pat on the back. I’m tired of waiting around for something to come my way. I’m not holding anything back this season and if that means bypassing the line?
(Candice shrugs.)
Candice Blair: That’s what I’m going to do.
(Cosmo goes to reply, but he’s cut off. ‘Juno’ by Sabrina Carpenter begins to play and once again, the crowd works themselves up. Ashlynn Quinn is greeted with nothing but boos as she walks onto the stage. She holds a microphone in one hand, and of course, her beloved championship is wrapped around her slim waist. She doesn’t make her way to the ring, instead she stays on the stage and shakes her head.)
Ashlynn Quinn: I’m having a really bad night and hearing you two uggos continue to argue over MY championship is seriously getting on my nerves. I should not be stuck in the position of having to defend against both of you, because gross. I should be crossing brands, giving everyone a chance to see what Miss Voltage is all about, and defending against Dynasty and Showdown Elitists. It’s actually super lame that my second defense has to be against Voltage AGAIN, but I guess that’s life as a champ! Neither one of you deserve it, in my opinion, but Eden Sinclair didn’t give me a choice.
Cosmo Goldworthy: Now we know damn well you don’t wanna defend that title at all so stop the bullshit, Ashlynn. Despite beating you fairly, without any question, you didn’t wanna get in the ring with me again. And whether I think she deserves a shot or not, you didn’t wanna face Candice either. Unfortunately, now ya ass has to deal with both of us, in a match that doesn’t favor you. The champ ain’t gotta be involved in the decision in order to lose and that really terrifies you. You spent all that time, waiting for something good to finally happen, and it’s really about to be snatched away from you next weekend.
Ashlynn Quinn: You will have to kill me to take this title from me, uggo, and don’t bother saying something stupid like ‘ThAt CaN bE aRrAnGeD’. I’m so tired of being so disrespected when I really worked just as hard as anyone here and winning this New Breed Championship really meant the world to me. It’s totally deserved and there’s no way I’m going to let this title go this early.
Candice Blair: You really don’t have a choice. I can understand to a certain extent that you’re tired of having people look down at you, because I feel the same way. We’ve always been seated in the same boat together; so close to winning, yet so far. It was actually kind of cool to see you put everything together at Pain for Pride and finally get what you’ve been waiting for, but that’s as far as my kindness towards you goes. You’re a coward, Ashlynn, and if you could just keep the title and not defend it, I feel like you’d be just fine with that. That’s not what a champion is… YOU are not legit.
Ashlynn Quinn: And I literally don’t care what you think of me, Candice! I’m better than you and I’m better than Cosmo, and there is no reason for this match to be happening! Neither of you deserve the New Breed Championship and even though I’m totally going to be competing in this match under extreme duress, I’m going to make sure both of you know better than to try me. This is MY title! I am going to keep it forever and there is NOTHING you two can do to change that.
Cosmo Goldworthy: Ya sure about that?
Ashlynn Quinn: Uhhh yeah!
Rich Russillo: COSMO GOLDWORTHY JUST SLAMMED HIS MICROPHONE INTO THE BACK OF CANDICE BLAIR’S HEAD! SHE WAS CAUGHT COMPLETELY OFF GUARD AND COSMO IS BACKING UP!!!
Thadd Blazevich: ‘COLDEST WINTER’! THE SPEAR CUTS A STUMBLING CANDICE BLAIR IN HALF AND COSMO FALLS ON TOP OF HER FOR A COVER!!!
(Cosmo is grinning as he hooks Candice’s leg and slaps his hands down on the match for an impromptu three count. Candice is out of it and clearly doesn’t kick out, and Cosmo hops up and grabs his microphone.)
Cosmo Goldworthy: Three seconds, Ashlynn. That’s all it’s gunna take and you ain’t gotta be in the ring for it to happen. Like it or not, you’re looking at the man who’s gunna be the New Breed Champion when TI is over.
(Cosmo smirks and makes the title motion with hands as his music starts to play. Ashlynn stands on the stage absolutely fuming over what just happened and she shakes her head.)
(After a final shot of Candice down in the ring and Cosmo hyping himself up, Voltage fades to the backstage area.)
(The camera opens to the backstage of Sunday Night Voltage. It focuses in on Daniella Atlas, who is leaning against the wall. She seems tense with her Universal Women’s Championship match around the corner. At the same time, she is completely focused.)
???: Do you not have better things to do than stand around?
(Daniella Atlas looks up and the crowd audibly boos as Selina Reyes slithers onto the camera. After getting laid out alongside Minerva earlier in the night by Saori and ARIA, Selina looks worse for wear. There is a smirk on her face, though, amused by her former rival. Atlas just stares her down, not willing to entertain her.)
Daniella Atlas: Is there something that you need Selina? Or are you just wasting my time like always?
Selina Reyes: No Daniella. My time is precious, unlike yours. I would not waste a moment of it.
Daniella Atlas: Oh, I see. So are you here to pick a fight then? Because I think we both know how the last one turned out. And it certainly was not with your hand raised.
Selina Reyes: You know that it was a fluke. This is still my season and this is still my brand. Besides, I am not going to fight you here. There would be no point in it Daniella. Especially when both of us have such important matches we have to look forward to. You have to understand that I am not here to cause you problems. Would be beneath me. That would be a profound waste of time for certain. No, I want to know what Minerva sees in you.
Daniella Atlas: What Minerva sees in me? Are you serious right now? You bothered me to ask what your partner sees in me?
Selina Reyes: Deadly serious I’m afraid. I have been thinking about it quite often now. I have run it over many times in my head, pouring over reasons there could be. Yet, my conclusion was exactly what it is. I see no reason she would even approach you at all. You are not the future of this company. You are not even the present of it. This season is going to slip through your grasp and I will be thankful when it does. Yet she did. She seems to have taken an interest in you for the life of me, I cannot figure out why. Because I am better than you.
Daniella Atlas: You know, your guess is actually as good as mine. For once that it is. See, I have no idea what she sees in me. Do I seem like I am in the mind of Minerva? No. Personally? I do not care either. See, this is not about her. I am not stepping into that ring at Territorial Invasion for her. This is about me. This is about my promise. My promise to her was that I would become the Universal Women’s Champion. That is exactly what shall happen.
Selina Reyes: Your promise? That is adorable really. You really should not make ones that you cannot keep. It just opens you and everyone else up to disappointment. The way I see it, Daniella, is that she sees potential in you. No one shall ever know why. She bestowed her wisdom upon you, giving you some strategies for defeating Ms. Extreme. Yet, I do not believe that any that you have will lead you to victory. No, I think that you are bound for failure. Ms. Extreme will defeat you and you will get precisely what you deserve. Nothing.
Daniella Atlas: Selina, you are actually pathetic. I know that you have your own sad priorities. You do all these things that never seem to really work out for you, do they? Now you are adding one more to the agenda. But I have one mission. I have one priority. That is to become the Universal Women’s Champion. I don’t care what Minerva thinks about me. I don’t need anyone’s stamp of approval here on Voltage. No, I want that championship. There is nothing that is going to stop me from tearing it from the cold, dead hands of Ms. Extreme.
Selina Reyes: Oh really?
Daniella Atlas: Yes, really. Unlike you Selina, I know what is important. My entire season has not been built of jealousy for those who are obviously better. I do not operate like a toddler throwing a tantrum. I keep myself focused on the things that matter, whereas you are coming back here and harping on about your partner even bothering to speak to me. See, I have my eyes locked solely on winning at Territorial Invasion, no matter what that may entail. Right now, I am closer to that title than you will ever get. Is that why you are back here? Jealousy?
Selina Reyes: You are a fool.
Daniella Atlas: A fool? You can call it whatever you want to dear. I call it success. So does everyone else. But that is something that you are clearly foreign to. I have to admit though, it would not be the worst thing in the world to impress someone like Minerva. But that would be incidental, a consequence of doing exactly what I will do. It would be another thing that I can do that you simply cannot. You should face the facts, Selina. You never bother to face the music when it is playing so loudly. Do you really believe that you are going to prove yourself in that tag team match? Or are you simply going to do what you do best? Disappointment.
(Selina Reyes’s stance shifts to a more aggressive one. She seems for a moment like she might attempt to strike Atlas but calms herself down instead. She takes a step back and laughs to herself.)
Selina Reyes: There is no doubt in my mind that I should be in the position that you are in right now. No…no…no. But I shall certainly make the most of the one I find myself in.There was a grave error made on the behalf of ARIA and Saori Aizen. They should have backed down weeks ago. Because they are in for a fight that they have no chance of winning. It shall be more of a slaughter really.
Daniella Atlas: Oh, I am sure.
Selina Reyes: They are nothing compared to Minerva and myself. Let us forget who she approached for her partner. She sees that in me. And she is right too. The truth is that I am simply superior to most of this roster. There is nothing ever that is going to prevent me from achieving what I must. Even you. Playing your games. They will ultimately fail to convince me that there is any other fate for myself but victory.
Daniella Atlas: Just like there is no way to convince me that you are a threat. This season began with me putting you in the ground.
Selina Reyes: And at one juncture or another, you shall be paid back for that. In full. But that is something that will come much, much farther down the line. You see, this is just the beginning for me. The first chapter in a new book for me. ARIA and Saori Aizen are stepping stones for getting back to where I belong. You see, I am going to win this match. There is no doubt in my mind and there should be none in yours either. After that, I begin climbing back to the spot I should be in. Because I should be the one competing for the Universal Women’s Championship. And there will be a time very soon, very soon where that is me. And then I shall tear it from whoever has it. Because this is my season Daniella.
Daniella Atlas: No, it isn’t. It belongs to me. It has since the second I showed up on the first show. I have proven it every single week. And now, when push comes to shove, I am going to prove by tearing Ms. Extreme apart. You have nothing. I am about to take everything. We are not equals. You are dirt underneath my boots. Nothing more.
(Selina Reyes steps back up to her, staring Daniella Atlas down.)
Selina Reyes: You are going to learn soon enough just how false that is. This narrative that you have tried to create will be shattered. Because this is not your season Daniella. No matter how often you claim that it is. It is mine and it will be mine. And if by some miracle you are the champion when I come for that title.
Daniella Atlas: Miracles will have nothing to do with it. I am going to be the champion. That is simply inevitable. It is what comes next Selina. And if somewhere down the line, you decide to take another shot at me…you are going to find out the hard way that you will never be on my level. So my recommendation for you is to stay out of my way. Because I have no problem running over you again.
(With that, Daniella Atlas pushes past Selina Reyes, shoulder-checking her on the way. She then heads off and leaves a bitter Reyes. The camera fades break.)
(Promotional ad for Territorial Invasion, where Daniella Atlas faces Ms. Extreme for the Universal Women’s Championship.)
(The camera cuts to the arena where ‘my mind is a mountain’ by Deftones hits to a mixed reaction from the crowd. Daniella Atlas makes her way out onto the stage, and glances around the arena briefly with a slight smirk on her face before sauntering down to the ring, mouthing some of the lyrics to her song, feeling overall confident on her stride to the ring.)
Bella Braxton: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… THE BLADES OF HERMES… DANIELLA ATLAS!!
Rich Russillo: Here’s Daniella Atlas, and I‘m told she has some things to get off her chest tonight. I’m interested to see what that is, but I can already imagine it pertains to our Universal Women’s Champion, Ms. Extreme.
Persephone: Well, whatever she has to say, can she make it quick please? I don’t want to be here all day.
Thadd Blazevich: Hey, I can listen to Daniella talk all day. I learn a new word each time!
Persephone: Ugh.
Rich Russillo: Sorry, Persephone, but most are interested in what Daniella has to say. Plus, even more interested in Daniella versus Ms. Extreme actually taking place. Time is winding down, and soon… the time for talk is over.
Thadd Blazevich: Yeah! Put up or shut up time, bro!
Rich Russillo: Exactly. Ms. Extreme and Daniella Atlas are both supremely confident in their abilities as well, so whoever does come up short at Territorial Invasion… it can’t be good for the ego. But it’ll answer the question on everyone’s mind is Daniella Atlas truly just another footnote in the reign, or unlike anything Ms. Extreme has ever faced before?
(Daniella Atlas is kneeling on the apron, staring directly at the hardcam before she enters the ring. Daniella faces the crowd on the other side briefly before walking to the right hand side of the ring, sticking her hand through the middle rope in order to be handed a microphone from an outside stagehand. Soon, she gets one, and walks to the center of the ring. Daniella waits for ‘my mind is a mountain’ by Deftones to die down before speaking.)
Daniella Atlas: It’s been fun, Camille. This little war between us, whether it be of words, or in trying to gain the edge over each other. But next week, it all comes to an end. Because at Territorial Invasion, it’s me versus you for the coveted Universal Women’s Championship. The anticipation is building from within, and I’m looking forward to taking the next step in my career, which so happens to go through you. In my past, I have held the Specialists Championship before. But this is far greater than that, because it’s a whole new level of responsibility for me to take on. Responsibility that I gladly welcome with open arms. But…
Daniella Atlas: Camille has made it her mission to try and deter me from reaching said status, citing I’m not ready to face her. To that, I say… you’ll never truly be tested if you seek to avoid uncomfortable situations in life. Recently, Minerva tested me in what was the hardest battle of my career thus far, and while I had hoped to persevere against a former Universal Women’s Champion herself to truly stake my claim towards the title, I came up short. Accordée, it wasn’t due to a lack of ability from my end, but Ms. Extreme inserting herself where she didn’t belong, cracking a ring bell over my head. But I don’t want to take Minerva’s victory either, because she did manage to defeat me regardless. But afterwards, showed respect to me that you can only gain through the heat of battle. From there, I knew… contrary to Ms. Extreme’s opinion, I was ready. I’m ready to be a World Champion, and mark my words, it’s going to happen.
(Daniella gives an intense stare into the camera, talking directly to Ms. Extreme, who she knows is watching. Daniella is laser-focused, and pays no mind to the mixed reaction from fans in the background, some eager to see her potentially topple Ms. Extreme, and others not.)
Daniella Atlas: Because I am ready to unlock a version of myself that the whole world has never seen before. I’m ready to prove my dominance, and that Camille has never faced an opponent quite like me. Camille, arrogance shall be your downfall, and I can’t wait for Territorial Invasion to cement that. These minor attacks have been appetizers for the true main course, and I won’t settle for anything less than ripping that Universal Women’s Title from your cold, dead hands.
(Daniella turns her head towards the stage area as ‘RED THUNDER’ by Butcher Babies blares throughout the arena next, and Daniella doesn’t seem to mind this intrusion. In fact, she almost welcomes it before leaning back on the ropes, waiting for Ms. Extreme’s arrival.)
Rich Russillo: It was only a matter of time before Daniella’s comments prompted out the Champion. I guess she’s chosen now as that time.
Persephone: Somebody needed to inject life into the segment, just a shame it’s Camille, who has like negative charisma.
Thadd Blazevich: Well, who would you prefer?
Persephone: I don’t know, literally anybody else besides the Ava-Cunt.
(Ms. Extreme confidently struts out with the Universal Women’s Championship wrapped around her waist, and takes it off to raise high in the air while marching down the stage, staring a hole into Atlas, who gives a simple wave with her fingers.)
Rich Russillo: Usually, most people are annoyed with interruptions. But Daniella seems to welcome it. Gotta wonder if the “Blades of Hermes” has a plan.
Thadd Blazevich: It wouldn’t surprise me with Daniella. But hey, she might be looking to chat as well.
Persephone: Oh God, if I have to hear MORE talking from these two… end me now. :noah:
(Camille places the Universal Women’s Championship over her shoulder before going up the stairs, picking a microphone up from off the steps as well. Ms. Extreme enters the ring, and stands across the ring from Daniella as ‘RED THUNDER’ by Butcher Babies fades in the background. The crowd are electric for both women, feeling the tension… before Daniella Atlas decides to step forward, and speak first into the microphone.)
Daniella Atlas: Camille… I was expecting-
Ms. Extreme: Zip it. It’s my turn to talk now.
(Daniella flashes an amused grin at Ms. Extreme’s very serious demeanor.)
Daniella Atlas: Très bien.
Ms. Extreme: Daniella, I’ve had to sit back, and listen to you go on and on about this or that. You’ve even gone as far to call my warnings an act of desperation, or arrogance for believing you aren’t ready to face me. But I could care less as to what you think, especially when there’s cold, hard evidence sitting right in front of us. With Showdown being the most recent. Be honest. You’re still hurting from last night, aren’t you?
(Daniella stares daggers into Ms. Extreme, refusing to show any signs of weakness.)
Ms. Extreme: It’s alright to admit it. I put a beating on you pretty bad, but I also sent a message ahead of Territorial Invasion, and it’s the same message I’ve been trying to send since you were bold enough to challenge me for this Universal Women’s Championship. No matter which version of yourself you “unlock,” you’re not ready to take this title from me. No one is.
(Ms. Extreme chuckles to herself.)
Ms. Extreme: At Midsummer Massacre, Bea Valentine thought she was good enough to regain her former glory, but I quickly shut that down, and proved my victory was no fluke at Pain for Pride. For some reason, it feels like I’m having to prove myself once again. But Territorial Invasion, I’ll not only drill into your head, but everyone else’s I’m here to stay as Universal Women’s Champion. Then when that happens, Daniella, the very thing you’ve tried to avoid becomes a reality. You’ve been so clear about not wanting to waste a second of your career, and not meander around like I did. But once firmly in the back of the line, who knows the next time you’ll get a shot at this?
(Daniella looks down at the ground momentarily, letting the hair cover her face before slicking it back to reveal the unphased expression on her face, still sporting an amused smile towards Camille.)
Daniella Atlas: You’re right. If I lose at Territorial Invasion, there truly is no telling when I’ll have another opportunity at the Universal Women’s Championship, especially with the stacked field where everyone is lining up for one. I know that was meant to scare me, but it’s actually motivated me even further, as if I needed it, Camille. You’ve motivated me to fight with everything I have, and leave nothing up to chance. Look into my eyes, Camille. Because in there, you’ll see the deep-seated fire within me to win, one that won’t be denied, and one that will engulf whatever flame burns deep within your heart.
(Ms. Extreme squints, trying to get a close look into Daniella’s eyes.)
Ms. Extreme: I’m looking, Daniella, and I just don’t see it. There’s nothing that’s going to separate you from everybody else. I mean, cmon. You don’t think that everybody has a fire deep within them? You don’t think I especially have a chip on my shoulder? It’s why I don’t get the accusations of being “arrogant.” Really, I’ve stayed confident in my own abilities of defending this title. Of course, as any Champion should. But I guess that’s the word when you don’t like something I’m saying, right? Suddenly, I’m being arrogant for believing I have what it takes to beat you, despite a track record before of turning talent away such as yourself.
Ms. Extreme: But sure, keep thinking that you’re once in a lifetime, and somehow different from everybody else before you. To me, that’s arrogant, and it’ll be YOUR downfall at Territorial Invasion. Daniella, I’ll give you credit. You’ve made quite the waves here. You won the Specialists Championship almost as quick as you lost it. But you said it yourself, this is a whole nother level of responsibility.
(Ms. Extreme gestures to the Championship sitting on her shoulder.)
Ms. Extreme: Sure, you might welcome this responsibility with open arms. But that doesn’t mean you’re ready for it.
(Daniella remains unimpressed with the comments made by Ms. Extreme.)
Daniella Atlas: Prévisible.
(Ms. Extreme raises an eyebrow.)
Ms. Extreme: What did you just say to me?
Daniella Atlas: …I said, you’re predictable. You’ve done your best to try and deter me, but when are you going to realize that’s not going to work? That there’s nothing you can or say to make me doubt for one second my chances at Territorial Invasion?
(Ms. Extreme seems dismissive of Daniella’s words completely.)
Daniella Atlas: Go ahead, and act like you don’t hear me. Because your actions directly contradict your words. You looked into my eyes, and saw nothing that separated me from your average challenger that you’d turn away. But I look into your eyes, Camille, and see fear. You’re afraid of the potential I possess, and even greater… what I might become. Because it eclipses anything you could, and will ever be. That’s why you felt the need to interfere in my match with Minerva, isn’t it? Because you’d have hated to see me beat another EAW Hall of Famer en route to our match, and poke holes in these claims I’m somehow not ready to face you.
(Ms. Extreme shakes her head.)
Ms. Extreme: Daniella, don’t overthink it. I just wanted to send a message ahead of Territorial Invasion. Whether you defeated Minerva or not… is irrelevant to me. Honestly, I could care less. Defeating Minerva isn’t defeating me. It’s one step closer to proving you may be worthy, but it isn’t anything past that. Your first real test to show you can hang with me in this ring, and even if you made it past Minerva… you still wouldn’t be.
Daniella Atlas: I’m done talking in circles with you, Camille. If you’re still failing to see the danger ahead of you, then you’re simply a lost cause, and your downfall will be satisfying to witness. It took time for you to regain status as Universal Women’s Champion, and it’ll take minutes for me to tear the role from you.
(Ms. Extreme brings the microphone close to her lips, going to speak before chuckling to herself as she has second thoughts, refusing to entertain this conversation any longer.)
Ms. Extreme: You know what? Hit my music. I’m done.
(Ms. Extreme tosses the microphone aside, and starts to exit the ring as ‘RED THUNDER’ by Butcher Babies plays. Daniella turns her back toward Ms. Extreme briefly, feeling satisfied with how things ended. But that’s when Camille chooses the opportune moment to strike, re-entering back inside the ring to stalk Daniella from behind with her Championship.)
Rich Russillo: Oh, Daniella… don’t turn around!
Persephone: What? Things are finally getting interesting!
(Daniella turns around, and almost gets cracked between the eyes with that Championship. But she saw it coming, and ducks underneath! Ms. Extreme drops the title, and spins around while leaned up against the ropes-)
Rich Russillo: CLOTHESLINE OVER THE TOP! DANIELLA SAW THE BELT SHOT COMING, AND JUST CLOTHESLINED CAMILLE UP AND OVER THE TOP!
(Daniella is hyped up, and notices that Ms. Extreme dropped the Universal Women’s Championship on the mat before she got clotheslined over. Camille rises to a knee on the outside, and yells for Daniella not to touch it.)
Thadd Blazevich: Uh-oh, Daniella might not want to poke the bear here…
(Daniella forms a smirk, and reaches down to grab the title strap. This successfully goads Ms. Extreme back into the ring as she slides in to reignite their brawl!)
(It’s a hockey fight between both women as they’re duking it out in the center of the ring! Daniella gains the upper hand by slamming Ms. Extreme face first off the top turnbuckle in the corner!)
(Daniella swings wildly at Camille in the corner, but she ducks underneath, and Daniella finds herself in the corner as a result. Ms. Extreme delivers a KNIFE EDGE CHOP across Daniella’s chest, but it has no effect over Daniella as she grabs Camille by the throat with one hand, and backs her to the center. Atlas is staring daggers into Ms. Extreme’s eyes.)
Rich Russillo: IF CAMILLE DIDN’T SEE ANYTHING IN DANIELLA’S EYES BEFORE, SHE DOES NOW! PURE RAGE!
(Ms. Extreme swats her hand away, and doubles Atlas over with a spinning back kick! Before taking her down to a knee via penalty kick to the chest that jolted Daniella upright momentarily. Ms. Extreme tries charging toward the ropes, but gets reeled in by the back of her pants, and set up for a…)
Thadd Blazevich: SOUTH OF HEAVEN!!
(Ms. Extreme lies knocked out on the canvas, and Daniella walks over to the Universal Women’s Championship before picking it up actually this time. Daniella walks over to Camille, and places a foot on her chest, raising it high.)
Rich Russillo: Could this be the scene at Territorial Invasion?
Persephone: I hope so. Anything is better than what we got.
(Daniella plops the Championship down on Camille’s chest, and looks down at her while ‘my mind is a mountain’ by Deftones plays in the background with the camera fading elsewhere.)
(Promotional ad for Territorial Invasion, where the Two Falls of Terror match will happen.)
(Voltage returns to ringside, and ‘Mr. Rager’ by Kid Cudi hits, causing an explosion of cheers to come from the crowd as the camera pans towards the stage. Bronson Daniels and Jon Kelton step out onto the stage, and both men are seen holding microphones in their hands. The two members of Elysium have focused looks on their faces, knowing that in just one week they’ll finally have the chance to win Championship gold together. The two make their way down the ramp, meanwhile the fans in attendance continue to cheer.)
Rich Russillo: I think it’s safe to say Elysium is ready for Territorial Invasion. Things have gotten pretty heated between them and the married couple currently holding both the Hardcore and EAW World Championships, but next week we’ll finally see it all come to an end, and there’s no telling how it’ll happen!
Thadd Blazevich: I know, dude. There’s so many different possibilities for that Two Falls of Terror match, it’s wild! Anything can happen in that match, but one thing’s for sure, bros. Elysium is ready for some gold!
Persephone: They’ve been “ready” for like a year now. At this point, can we just fire them if they somehow come back empty handed? I’m getting pretty tired of going through this with them.
(Bronson Daniels and Jon Kelton make their way up the steel steps and into the ring, not wasting any time before beginning to speak.)
Bronson Daniels: Do any of you remember what Adam Lucas said last week heading into his match against me? He had the chance to face one of his Territorial Invasion challengers head on and show everyone what he’s capable of against one of the best Elitists this brand has to offer, and what did he do? He didn’t do what a Champion would normally do, and take that challenge head on. He didn’t accept the fact that we’d be facing him and Bethany at Territorial Invasion. In fact, he did something that I’d expect more from Bethany than from him.
(Bronson Daniels stops, just shaking his head before continuing.)
Bronson Daniels: He complained. He whined about the fact that he wasn’t given a “fair” Championship defense. He decided that Captain Charisma was setting up him and Bethany. He was making all the excuses in the world, excuses that I’m sure he’ll be repeating once he and Bethany both lose their Championships, just as we promised.
Jon Kelton: I’ve known Adam Lucas for a long time, and I didn’t take him to be the kind of man that’d be so quick to throw the blame at everyone but himself for his own shortcomings. However, clearly his time on this brand last season changed him. He and Bethany are both trying to brush us off and ignore what we’re capable of as if we’re anything but the world class talent that we are, and while it may be a shame seeing what Adam has turned into, I knew exactly what we were getting ourselves into with Bethany. Bethany wants us to doubt ourselves, but doubt isn’t an option when we’re fighting for the exact kind of achievement we’re here for. We have been pushing ourselves for so long, and it was for this. It was for an opportunity like this. To be World Champion. To hold gold together. To reach the heights we have always had it in us to reach. They’re not going to stop us from doing it, I can promise you that much.
(Loud cheers come from the crowd once more, and after this, Bronson continues.)
Bronson Daniels: Last week would have been a great opportunity to silence at least one of them before Territorial Invasion had arrived, but things did not go as planned. That’s fine, because as much as Adam and Bethany may attempt to deny it, we’ve shown that we can take them on, we can fight at the level needed in a match as high stakes as this, and more importantly, we can take them down. This means everything to us, and if we were so willing to let the lies coming from the two Champions get to us, there’d be no point in even standing here, preparing to face them in just a week’s time. This is our match, and we-
(Before Bronson could finish his sentence, ‘Somebody Get Me A Doctor’ by Van Halen hits. This immediately causes loud boos to come from the fans in attendance, as Dr. Bethany Blue makes her way out to the stage, carrying her Hardcore Championship on her shoulder. ‘Everybody Knows (Unstoppable)’ by Royal Deluxe hits while Bethany is on the stage, and after this, Adam Lucas begins to walk out, meeting Bethany on the stage with the EAW World Championship around his waist. Both Elitists have microphones in their hands, and begin walking down the ramp together.)
Rich Russillo: Dr. Bethany Blue and Adam Lucas just interrupted Elysium, and I guess they don’t take too kindly to what they’ve said so far. Can’t say I’m too surprised given everything that’s happened.
Thadd Blazevich: Yeah, but things could get bad here, bro! Can’t forget, Adam and Bronson last week were fighting so hard they completely ignored the referee’s count!
Persephone: I remember. That was stupid, but at least it caused the match to end sooner.
(Dr. Bethany Blue and Adam Lucas make it to ringside, and together make their way up to the apron. As the two enter the ring, Dr. Bethany Blue begins to speak.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: Have the two of you lost your minds? Adam and I have spent months proving that there is NOBODY here better than us. I have been the Hardcore Champion since Grand Rampage. Do you know how many people have tried to prove something against me, whether it be in a Championship match or in a normal match here on Voltage? Do you know how many people I’ve put down who thought the exact same way that you do? And Adam won both of his World Championships in Pain for Pride main events. Neither of you have main evented that event even once despite having all the opportunities necessary to. Do you know why that’s the case?
(Dr. Bethany Blue takes a few steps closer, standing directly in front of the two members of Elysium.)
Dr. Bethany Blue: It’s because you two are nothing more than a failed experiment. You tried to make this Elysium thing work, but it’s not working, and it never will. You’re not as good as everyone here wishes you were, and you’re definitely not good enough to do what everyone else before you failed to do and take these Championships from us. This isn’t an argument, this isn’t a matter of opinion, this is the truth, whether you like it or not.
(This receives loud boos, but quickly, Adam Lucas begins to speak.)
Adam Lucas: I heard what you two were saying and I have to say, it’s really funny how you can force everyone else here to sit through the two of you complaining because you weren’t good enough to make it past Drake Armstrong and Hans Grayson back at Bloodsport and earn this opportunity only to also have a problem when I call out the same exact fact. You two don’t belong in this match, and Captain Charisma chose to let Drake Armstrong do what he wanted rather than putting his foot down. Like Bethany said, that’s the truth. You two don’t belong in this match, but here we are, putting our Championships on the line against a “real tag team” in a match where you should supposedly have the advantage, yet when that bell rings for the final time and this match is over, you’re not the one who’ll be given those Championships. It’s us.
(The boos continue, but after hearing what Adam Lucas had to say, Jon Kelton begins to respond.)
Jon Kelton: Adam, this isn’t the first and I’m sure it won’t even be the last time that you say this. For what it’s worth, I’ll admit that Bethany has had an eventful reign as Champion, but you? Bloodsport was the first, and only time you’ve successfully defended the EAW World Championship, and you’re not going to have a second time.
Adam Lucas: Of course this isn’t the last time I’ll say this. I’ve earned the right to feel the way I do because I fought for this Championship. You didn’t even earn this opportunity, you had it handed to you on a silver platter. What do you want from me? Do you want me to pretend that you can legitimately take these from us? Do you want us to apologize for pointing out the fact that you two have spent your entire run as a team failing to capitalize on opportunities? Better yet Kelton, you’ve made a career out of it. That’s why you’re still looking for your first World Championship despite the fact that you started your career here before anyone else in this ring.
(Loud boos come from the crowd, but Jon Kelton doesn’t back down, beginning to speak once more.)
Jon Kelton: Then why are you so worried? Do you understand how many times I’ve heard the exact same thing? It’s so repetitive it’s tiring, and now here I am having to hear it once again from someone that had just spent the past year crying because I’m here fighting for both you and Bethany’s Championships. What’s the point in complaining if we don’t have a chance?
Dr. Bethany Blue: Are we not allowed to want better competition?
Bronson Daniels: Better competition like who? Be honest, Bethany. It didn’t matter who was up next for your title. You’ve talked down to all of your challengers the same way, and now here you are doing it with multiple time Champions. You’re right, neither of us have main evented Pain for Pride, but how long are you going to keep pretending we’re not good enough knowing everything we *have* accomplished? You pretend you’re not satisfied no matter who you’re up against, and when Territorial invasion is over, you’re going to be back here crying with Adam Lucas because somehow you think you’ve been screwed over just for having to defend your Championships.
Dr. Bethany Blue: Bronson, it’s not our fault that nobody is good enough. You can’t blame us for that. You had more than enough time and to your credit, yes you are a multiple time World Champion, but why should any of us care about a Championship reign that lasted all of five minutes? A reign that you were never even able to redeem, because you screwed up every opportunity you had to get the title back. That’s not even mentioning Jon Kelton, so sure, maybe I wouldn’t be satisfied no matter who got this opportunity, but it’s even more annoying knowing that the people who DID get this opportunity are as undeserving as the two of you.
(The boos continue, but quickly Bronson begins to speak once more.)
Bronson Daniels: Well we’ll gladly solve that problem for you. Both of you I should say, because whether you like it or not we *are* your challengers at Territorial Invasion, and we’re going to walk out with both of those Championships. I’m sure both of you know that we’re the better team, and when it comes down to it, we’re also just the better wrestlers.
(The fans cheer, and after this, Jon Kelton looks at Bronson before beginning to speak.)
Jon Kelton: You know, you mentioned last week and I’ll admit, I’m not too thrilled about what happened, either. After all, the only reason we’re even listening to all this right now is because things got out of hand and Adam was saved from a decisive loss.
Bronson Daniels: You’re right. There’s still unfinished business there as far as I’m concerned, so trust me, I don’t plan to let Territorial Invasion end without us getting what we came for. This time, you two aren’t getting out of this.
(There’s a tense staredown between Elysium and the two Champions as the cheers continue. It lasts some time, but eventually, Adam Lucas just shakes his head with an annoyed look on his face, finally beginning to speak.)
Adam Lucas: Getting out of this? So is that what you think? After everything I went through last season, after all the time I spent being pushed back and having to fight like Hell just to get what I deserved since the very start of that season, you’re trying to reduce me to some sort of coward? After everything Bethany did with the Hardcore Championship you’re going to pretend that this is a match she’s going to have to try and escape from? That’s not what we do. We’re not here because we survived our opponents, we’re here because we’re better than them.
Dr. Bethany Blue: If you still don’t get that then the two of you are hopeless, but trust me, if you want to keep pushing the idea that there’s unfinished business here, then we can easily settle that right now. If you want to get humiliated a week before getting destroyed when it matters most for the hundredth time, we can always make that happen.
(The staredown between the two teams continues, until finally…)
Rich Russillo: IT WAS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME! BRONSON DANIELS JUST HIT ADAM LUCAS WITH A RIGHT HAND, AND IT LOOKS LIKE THEY’RE GETTING STRAIGHT TO IT! BETHANY HIT KELTON WITH A FOREARM, AND NOW BOTH TEAMS ARE JUST GOING AT IT, BRAWLING WITH EACH OTHER AS THINGS HAVE ALREADY GOTTEN OUT OF HAND!
Thadd Blazevich: ADAM WAS ABLE TO BACK BRONSON INTO THE ROPES WITH HIS PUNCHES- BUT BRONSON DUCKS UNDER A STRIKE BEFORE CLOTHESLINING ADAM OVER THE TOP ROPE! BRO, THAT WAS SUCH A HARD CLOTHESLINE THAT BOTH DUDES WENT OVER THE TOP ROPE! ADAM AND BRONSON ARE AT RINGSIDE, AND BRONSON GRABS ADAM BEFORE THROWING HIM INTO THE STEEL STEPS!
Persephone: Bethany knees Kelton in the midsection before sending him out of the ring, and she follows behind. She goes to grab Kelton, but Kelton cuts her off with a kick to the stomach, before sending her into the barricade towards the timekeepers area. Kelton follows, and-
(DING!)
Rich Russillo: AND BETHANY JUST GRABBED THE RING BELL BEFORE HITTING KELTON RIGHT IN THE HEAD WITH IT!!!!
Thadd Blazevich: AH MAN, NOT GOOD BRO! ADAM JUST PULLED A LIGHT TUBE OUT FROM UNDER THE RING AS WELL, AND HE SMASHES IT ACROSS THE SIDE OF BRONSON’S HEAD!!!
Rich Russillo: Kelton fell over towards our table, and it looks like he was seriously rocked by that shot from the bell! Kelton sees the steel chairs that are leaning against the barricade though, AND HE GRABS ONE BEFORE SHOVING IT INTO BETHANY’S MIDSECTION AS SHE WAS APPROACHING! BETHANY STUMBLES BACK AND KNEELS OVER- AND THIS ALLOWS KELTON TO HIT HER IN THE HEAD WITH THE CHAIR!
Persephone: Thank God weapons are being used. I was getting tired of all the boring tame fights we have.
Rich Russillo: Well after all the animosity lately, I can see why it’s come to this! Bronson is leaning against the barricade and it looks like he might’ve been busted open in the side of his head, AND ADAM TAKES OUT A LEAD PIPE! Adam is looking to do some serious damage here, AS HE SWINGS IT AT BRONSON’S HEAD-
Thadd Blazevich: BUT BRONSON CAUGHT IT!!! BRONSON CATCHES THE LEAD PIPE, AND HE KICKS ADAM IN THE GUT BEFORE SNATCHING IT! BRONSON HAS THE LEAD PIPE, AND BRO, HE JUST HIT ADAM RIGHT IN THE HEAD WITH IT!
Persephone: Kelton grabs Bethany, AND HE USES ALL HIS STRENGTH TO SEND HER FACE FIRST INTO THE RING POST! Bethany crumbles to a knee momentarily, and thanks to that Kelton is able to grab her, BEFORE BEGINNING TO REPEATEDLY SLAM HER FACE INTO THE POST!
Rich Russillo: THOSE WERE SOME SERIOUS SHOTS TO THE POST- BUT BETHANY IS ABLE TO FIGHT BACK, PUSHING HER HEAD AWAY BEFORE GRABBING KELTON’S ARM- AND PULLING KELTON FORWARD AND FACE FIRST INTO THE POST HIMSELF!
Thadd Blazevich: Bro, Adam Lucas fell to his knees, AND BRONSON GRABS HIM BY THE HEAD AND SLAMS HIS FACE INTO THE STEEL STEPS!! Adam’s not looking good bro- BUT ADAM GRABS ONE OF THE GLASS SHARDS BEFORE STABBING IT INTO BRONSON’S LEG!
(As the brawling continues, tons of security guards can be seen beginning to finally run down the ramp. This causes loud boos to come from the crowd, but the security guards rush down the ramp as fast as they can, quickly grabbing the four Elitists before beginning to drag them away from each other.)
Rich Russillo: SECURITY HAS MADE THEIR WAY OUT HERE TO BREAK THIS ONE UP, BUT IF THIS IS WHAT WE’RE ALREADY SEEING, I CAN’T EVEN IMAGINE WHAT’S TO COME AT TERRITORIAL INVASION! TWO CHAMPIONSHIPS ARE ON THE LINE, AND ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN!
Thadd Blazevich: I CAN’T WAIT, BRO! THESE DUDES SERIOUSLY HATE EACH OTHER, BUT YOU KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS! WE’RE GONNA GET A GNARLY MATCH AT TI!
Persephone: Well, I saw blood but I’m still not exactly excited for this match. I don’t like any of them and I would actually be happy if somehow none of them left Territorial Invasion as Champion.
Rich Russillo: Well I don’t know how likely that is, but at this rate, but if there’s anything we may see at Territorial Invasion, it’s blood! Things have gotten out of control, and I have no clue what’s gonna happen next week!
(The security guards begin to pull the four Elitists away from each other, but all four of them are now bloody after everything they’ve done to each other, and they’re all trying to pull themselves away from the security guards to keep fighting. A few more security guards rush out to help, adding to the chaos as Voltage begins to fade away from ringside.)
(Promotional ad for Territorial Invasion, where the War Games match will take place.)
(Voltage returns from its final break for the night and cuts to the ring. ‘Pride and Arrogance’ starts to play and Bella Braxton raises her microphone.)
Bella Braxton: LADIES AND GENTLEMEN… PLEASE WELCOME DRAKE ARMSTRONG, HANS GRAYSON, AND KAI RABEAUX… THE VOLTAGE WAR GAMES TEAM!
(Despite the way ‘Pride and Arrogance’ literally makes a person’s skin crawl due to who the music belongs to, the crowd cheers because they are pro-Voltage. They want nothing more than to see Drake, Hans, and Kai leave Territorial Invasion with a huge win, and they show their support as a result of that.)
Persephone: Drake Armstrong getting cheered. First time for everything, I guess.
Thadd Blazevich: I gotta think the crowd just wants to see Voltage win next weekend, and I’m with them! Maybe I’m a real biased bro, but this is a gnarly team dude. I don’t think there’s any doubt that the gold brand has the best chance of winning War Games! :blessed:
Rich Russillo: At this point, the match is a toss-up. I think all three teams have established just how far they’re willing to go in order to win, but yea, I’ll say it. I’m behind Voltage all the way!
(The War Games team grabs microphones, gets in the ring, and takes a moment to let the crowd’s reaction wash over them. It was invigorating knowing that the Voltage faithful was behind them, despite two of the three men in the ring were far from popular. As ‘Pride and Arrogance fades, the crowd starts to quiet. After a moment, the Captain steps forward.)
Drake Armstrong: War is upon us.
(For the first time in his life, the Armstrong scion was greeted with cheers for something he’s said. Drake smirks at this.)
Drake Armstrong: Tensions have been high. Battle lines have been drawn. The teams representing Showdown and Dynasty have made their intentions most clear. Those whom enter the War Games match at Territorial Invasion must prepare for the most unscrupulous battle of their lives. Hans and Kai are aware of the expectations I have placed upon our shoulders. Victory is the only option and we shall not settle for anything less. ‘Twas Douglas MacArthur who once said ‘Once war is forced upon us, there is no alternative than to apply every available means to bring it to a swift end. War’s very objective is victory – not prolonged indecision.’ I believe that best sums up what the three of us plan to do to restore Voltage back to the glory it once had. For a period of several years, this brand dominated the very event that commences next week. Territorial Invasion was Voltage’s time to show the wrestling world that their brand of chaos is what gets the job done on the biggest of stages! Things have certainly shifted the last couple of years but fret not! The King of Elite, Mr. Cash in the Vault, and the 24/7 Contract holder will be restoring order!
(Drake and his teammates exchange a knowing look before the captain continues on.)
Drake Armstrong; I believe it’s of the utmost importance to establish Voltage as the brand to beat and more or less, that stems from the fact that I am the reigning King of Elite. I will tolerate no less than absolute perfection from my teammates, the rest of the men and women of Voltage, and of course, myself. Armstrong men do not settle, nor do we rest until absolute domination comes at our hands. I expect a noble and rather valiant effort from Dynasty and Showdown next weekend, but it will not be enough. Nothing they shall throw at this grand brand will be enough. The Junior Captain is aware of what is expected of him. Those representing Voltage in Divide & Conquer know what is expected of them! Dare I say that Daniella Atlas should be aware that she is expected to bring the Universal Women’s Championship back to Voltage as well! This is what I mean about expectations being sky high! This is what I mean about showing complete and utter domination! Voltage will destroy their enemies one by one, and until their blood covers the battlefield we shall not stop! I implore my fellow roster members to dig deep within themselves next weekend and leave no stone unturned. Find something within them that perhaps they did not know existed and truly make a stand.
(Drake pauses for a moment, and then his eyes narrow into a glare.)
Drake Armstrong: There is little choice but for everyone to get on board. Should the expectations not be met, by anyone on Voltage, there will be consequences.
(The tone of Drake’s voice left no room to argue, and somehow, Hans refrains from rolling his eyes. He raises his own mic up and starts to address the crowd.)
Hans Grayson: While knocking Impact out with brass knuckles last week wasn’t my plan, it happened and quite frankly, I don’t regret it. I’ve dealt with a lot of criticism this season for going along with Drake and his schemes, but I haven’t really been left with much choice. I’m not going to rehash all of that, and I’m going to go ahead and squash any doubts about whether or not the two of us will be able to work together next weekend. As far as I’m concerned, the differences we share are on ice for the time being because what matters is War Games.
(Hans starts to pace the ring.)
Hans Grayson: There’s no holding back in a match like War Games and it became clear that I couldn’t do that last week against Karl Impact. He’s made my life hell and it felt real good to knock him out cold. It’s going to feel even better when I beat him again but this isn’t just about Impact and I. Joso and Bea want the win as much as anyone and I know they’re hungry for it. I could see it in their eyes last night as they stood in the ring. Showdown is walking into TI as the defending War Games champions, and clearly they want to go back-to-back. Besides, that team likely feels like they’ve got something to prove. As usual, Showdown is under attack by a stable of the month and the choices Joso has made have been met with criticism.
Drake Armstrong: Verily deserved.
(Hans cut his eyes at Drake, who merely shrugs.)
Hans Grayson: They have a point to prove and we all know first hand how well Joso works under pressure. They’ll be motivated, and I can’t wait for that type of challenge. I’m sure Karl has told both his teammates that I’m not gonna hold back once we’re all inside the cage. I can’t afford too, and I know neither one of these guys will either.
(Kai shakes his head.)
Kai Rabeaux: It was never a doubt once I agreed to partake in this match, that I would not hold back, and I agree with your assessment about the Showdown team, Hans. They are indeed a team that is focused to prove a point and make a stand, and it certainly will not come at my expense. I can acknowledge that I have the least amount of experience in terms of the competitors in this match, and they are all more decorated than I at this point. But things will not be staying that way; not at all. I am destined for championship gold this season and there is no better way to announce my arrival to the upper echelon than by helping my team win War Games.
(Drake nods his head with an approving look on his face, and Kai continues, taking a small step forward as he stares at the fans in front of him.)
Kai Rabeaux: My intentions have been made clear from the very beginning, and whilst I should never have been required to explain a decision as obvious as joining this team, I wanted to leave no room for questions once the time had come for us to go to war. I wanted everyone, no matter how foolish you may be to understand what I am after. Reaching the top of this company has been my priority from the moment I became a member of the EAW roster, and in truth it was always merely a matter of time before I reached those heights. It was inevitable, an inevitability that exists because I am the kind of individual that’d stop at nothing but to not only reach, but shatter every expectation that I have ever set for myself. I am the kind of talent that wouldn’t rest until I’ve reached the pinnacle of this industry, and knowing this, Drake Armstrong chose me. He knew I was the kind of competitor he needed on this team, and he was right. This team, this brand, we will all leave Territorial Invasion victorious, because I will not allow anything less.
(After this Kai briefly stops, and after a moment, a slight smirk appears on his face.)
Kai Rabeaux: I’ve said that this war will divide those who are deserving of the spotlight and those who cling to it, but as I observe our competition, it has become clear to me that we are surrounded by people who simply are not made for war. There are individuals walking into this match failing to do something as simple as working as a cohesive team, and if you are incapable of doing the bare minimum, how could you possibly be expected to prevent true greatness from shining at Territorial Invasion? Methuselah has participated in War Games. Drake King has participated in War Games. The Interwire Champion BRAE may not have had the same privilege, but as great of a threat as those three individuals are supposed to be, Dynasty’s team is no unit. They’re not a force to be reckoned with, they are nothing more than three people struggling to avoid tearing themselves apart before we can do it for them. They’re not here to overcome their differences, conquer their past and win. They’re here to collapse, and pave the way for the three of us to achieve exactly what we promised to.
Drake Armstrong: Precisely. Their greatest enemy will prove to be themselves, and once we’ve capitalized on Dynasty’s weaknesses and overcome Showdown’s hunger, there will be nothing left standing in the way of our victory.
(The smirk on Kai’s face widens, as he looks at Drake Armstrong, nodding his head in agreement. While Hans doesn’t agree with a lot of the decisions that Drake and Kai make, he also seemingly appears to be on the same page regarding the other two teams, as he chooses to remain silent. After a moment, Kai begins to speak once more.)
Kai Rabeaux: Nothing at all. There is a reason we each hold the power to change the landscape of this company at any given moment. The future is ours, and this match will be what changes everything. The other two teams may not yet know it, but War Games belongs to us. This is our match to win, and very soon everyone fighting in this war will realize just how outclassed they have always been. As soon as this team was formed, Voltage’s victory became the one and only outcome of Territorial Invasion.
(The three members of the War Games team stand tall in the center of the ring, seemingly ready for the match ahead of them. However, they and the fans alike would soon be caught by surprise, as “Vent (Original Version)” by Baby Keem and Kendrick Lamar hits.)
Rich Russillo: Uh oh! I think we all know exactly who that music belongs to, and on the final show before Territorial Invasion, I can’t imagine this being a good thing!
Thadd Blazevich: Dude, this is crazy! I didn’t think we’d be getting another surprise appearance from the other brands tonight!
Persephone: Oh, great. As if it wasn’t bad enough having to listen to these three run their mouths.
(A loud reaction comes from the fans in attendance, who didn’t expect this kind of interruption so soon before Territorial Invasion. Nonetheless, the camera fades towards the stage. Methuselah begins walking out to the stage, and of course, the Captain of Dynasty’s War Games team is not alone. Behind him are the Interwire Champion BRAE, as well as Drake King. Neither of them look too pleased to be there, especially Drake King, who hasn’t really hidden his disdain for Methuselah. BRAE on the other hand keeps a more focused and composed look on his face, as Methuselah begins to lead the two men down the ramp, seemingly looking to meet Voltage’s War Games team inside of the ring.)
Rich Russillo: We know things have gotten pretty heated over the last few weeks with brands invading each other, and we even saw a brief appearance from team Dynasty here last week. It makes me wonder what they could be out here for right now.
Thadd Blazevich: Things could get real crazy here, bro. I mean, this is Territorial Invasion we’re talking about! I’d be surprised if these dudes weren’t looking for a fight.
Persephone: In that case, they better get right to it. Hopefully, it gets bloody this time.
(Methuselah, BRAE and Drake King all make their way inside of the ring, with Methuselah entering first. Once the entirety of team Dynasty is in the ring, there is a tense staredown between them and team Voltage, one that continues as Methuselah’s entrance music begins to fade out. A sick grin spreads across Methuselah’s face as he pulls a microphone out of his back pocket.)
Methuselah: HAIL! Commander Adams and his soldiers have arrived! It is my duty not just as captain, but as Chairman of this company to listen to the words of maggots and decide if they have any value. I hear what the three of you have to say but I scoff. I scoff at the arrogance, the bravado, and the overall presentation of a team composed of a faux King, a half-wit Cash in the Vault holder who can not stand up for himself, and a mere rookie who was on no one’s radar months ago. THIS is the best Voltage has to offer? HA!
(Methuselah shakes his head.)
Methuselah: I shudder for the future of this company, indeed. Voltage is truly falling short, but the same could be said for Showdown, I suppose. There is but one team that should be revered, and that is the one led by me. Drake King and BRAE have fallen in line, not that there was any choice in the matter. Insubordination is not something I tolerate, and as a result, what you gentlemen see in front of you is a well oiled machine. Drake King and BRAE have been put through their paces. They have been honed into machines ready for war. Drake is no stranger to how I operate, nor is this match a foreign concept for him. He was meant for moments such as these, and the Interwire Champion?
(Methuselah smirks.)
Methuselah: BRAE has proven to be a killer, just waiting to be unleashed on the rest of you. There is no further to look in terms of who will be bringing this match home. War Games belongs to Dynasty, and as a result, it belongs to me. I do not need to hear a rebuttal from any of you. I am simply stating what I know to be facts. You three are in over your heads and that will be proven once this war commences next weekend.
(Methuselah looks at Drake King and BRAE, and while BRAE seems to be focused on Methuselah’s words, Drake King has a scowl on his face. He has his own microphone and raises it up.)
Drake King: I can’t believe this is even happening right now. You know what? It’s true, the three of you don’t measure up to us as competitors and that should never have been a conversation. Drake isn’t cut out to be a team Captain, and why Hans and Kai would listen to him of all people is beyond me… This is ridiculous.
(Drake looks furious having to go along with what Methuselah says, but as he looks to continue speaking, the crowd suddenly grows louder.)
Drake King: Look, at Territorial Invasion, you three will-
(Finally, the members of team Dynasty begin to notice exactly why the fans got louder, but before they can react…)
Rich Russillo: HEY, WAIT A SECOND!!!
Thadd Blazevich: BRO, IMPACT JUST TOOK HANS GRAYSON OUT WITH A BACKSTABBER!!!! HE JUST HIT BRO WITH AN EVISCERATION FROM BEHIND!!
Rich Russillo: IMPACT IS HERE, AND HE JUST BLINDSIDED HANS GRAYSON!!!! IMPACT MUST’VE BEEN LOOKING FOR A BIT OF REVENGE FOR LAST WEEK, AND I THINK HE GOT IT! IMPACT IS HERE ON VOLTAGE, AND NOW HE GETS UP AND HITS KAI WITH A RIGHT HAND BEFORE GETTING ATTACKED BY DRAKE ARMSTRONG!!!
Thadd Blazevich: You think team Dynasty is gonna get involved in this, bro? I know this is War Games and all, but this might be between Showdown and Voltage!
Persephone: It looks like they won’t have a choice. Look at the ramp.
Rich Russillo: WAIT A SECOND, YOU’RE RIGHT!!!! BEA VALENTINE AND JOSO JUST SLID INTO THE RING WITH BASEBALL BATS!! METHUSELAH TURNS AROUND- BUT HE GETS HIT RIGHT IN THE MIDSECTION WITH THE BAT BY JOSO!!!! BEA VALENTINE CATCHES DRAKE KING IN THE BACK WITH HER BAT, AND NOW JOSO TAKES OUT BRAE!!!!
Thadd Blazevich: KAI TURNS TO GO AFTER TEAM SHOWDOWN- BUT BEA DUCKS UNDER A STRIKE FROM HIM BEFORE HITTING HIM IN THE GUT WITH THE BAT! KAI DROPS TO A KNEE, AND NOW BEA HITS HIM IN THE BACK OF THE HEAD WITH THE BAT! THAT WAS REAL NASTY, BRO! HE’S GONNA BE FEELING THAT ONE IN THE MORNING FOR SURE!
Rich Russillo: Impact is able to begin fighting off Drake Armstrong thanks to the help from the others, AND NOW JOSO HITS DRAKE ARMSTRONG IN THE BACK WITH THE BASEBALL BAT!!!!! ARMSTRONG IS FEELING THE EFFECTS OF THAT ONE- AND NOW IMPACT TAKES HIM DOWN WITH AN EVISCERATION!!!!
Thadd Blazevich: TEAM VOLTAGE HAS BEEN WIPED OUT BRO, AND NOW BEA AND JOSO ARE JUST HITTING EVERYONE THAT’S BEEN LAID OUT WITH THE BATS! THIS IS JUST MERCILESS BRO, THEY’RE NOT EVEN GIVING ANYONE A CHANCE TO GET BACK UP!
Rich Russillo: THAT’S RIGHT! METHUSELAH WAS ON ALL FOURS, AND GOT HIT WITH EVEN MORE BASEBALL BAT SHOTS TO PREVENT IT! TEAM SHOWDOWN IS LOOKING TO MAKE A STATEMENT AHEAD OF TERRITORIAL INVASION, AND I THINK IT’S SAFE TO SAY THAT THEY ACCOMPLISHED EXACTLY THAT!
Thadd Blazevich: Bro, I think everyone’s been wiped out now! Even Hans is getting hit with the baseball bat, and he’s the one that was attacked first! Team Showdown just took everyone out! I can’t believe it. I have faith in my brand, but Showdown is coming out of this looking real strong. I didn’t expect them to attack at a time like this, not like this! They totally just wiped out the field!
Persephone: They did. Everyone is down and out, and you know what? Good. It’s annoying that my brand is this pathetic, but at least now I don’t have to keep listening to them talk about nothing.
(The fans are in disbelief, and there’s a loud mixed reaction coming from the fans in attendance after seeing what team Showdown has done. Bea Valentine and Joso lay in a few more baseball bat shots to the few people laid out that had still shown some signs of life, before they and Impact slowly make their way into the center of the ring, standing tall after wiping out both brands.)
Rich Russillo: That was one huge statement made by team Showdown, who I believe just showed everyone just how well they plan to work together come Territorial Invasion. This won’t be an easy match, that’s for sure.
Thadd Blazevich: You can say that again, bro. Showdown already had a stacked team, but they appear to be fired up, and if this is the energy they have at Territorial Invasion, this can be tough! Still, I have faith in our brand!
Persephone: Well they better not get themselves humiliated like they did tonight. Impact completely caught them off guard.
Rich Russillo: Well, all we can do is wait and see. All three of these teams are filled with amazing competitors. Right now I think this is a match anyone can win, but we’ll have to see what’ll happen next week, at Territorial Invasion!
(There is one final shot of team Showdown standing over the two fallen teams. Drake Armstrong, Hans Grayson, Kai Rabeaux, Methuselah, BRAE, and Drake King are all laid out on the mat, in pain following the constant shots with the baseball bats. Some of the shots had managed to draw blood, but everyone was down and out following the attack. Joso, Bea Valentine and Impact standing tall is the final shot, as Voltage fades to black.)
(EAW logo buzzes.)
