Salvation 156: Tag Team Edition (06.06.21)

[Donnie]

Preshow

Funky Order vs The Nameless
Good back and forth early, but then The Nameless took over and eventually hit The Following to win the match.

Haze of Payne vs Gold Standard
Haze of Payne dominated the match in an impressive manner and hit Header to win the match.

2X vs Johnny Paradise and Izzy High
Good fast paced match that saw 2X win after hitting Triple X.

[Donnie]

Opening

Slade gets himself composed and calls for something big. Kit Kobold realizes his dad might be in trouble and jumps up on the apron. Slade sees the young man and gives him a big boot. This buys Draco Dragotta some time and he is able to get up to his feet and grab hold of Slade’s head and plant it into the mat with a Dragotta Driver. Dragotta goes for the cover.

1…
2…
3.

Trinity Nicole is about to announce the winner when Kit Kobold knocks her over and grabs hold of a chair behind her. Kit then throws the chair into the ring before climbing the ropes and coming off the top with a Ko-bomb on Slade. Kit Kobold then grabs the chair and smashes it into Slade’s face. The edge of the chair seems to catch Slade’s head as he is busted open. Father and son then start stomping Slade.

JJ Adams: Why is this necessary? Draco got the win. He’s proven his point again.

Jayden Skiles: Has he though. Draco needs people to know his name. Who better to do it against than a Hall of Famer? Also let me compliment Kit on his ability to swing a chair. Finely done indeed. His father is training him well.

Johnson McConnell: I don’t know much about how well Draco has trained Kit, but by the sounds going around the arena here comes someone who does know how to swing a chair amongst other things.

Everything Ends blasts over the speakers, and Jason Sandman comes running out from the back. Not even stopping to throw his barbed wire wrapped chair in the ring, Sandman slides into the ring and takes a swing at both Kit and Draco as they dive out of the ring. Sandman gets Slade up to his feet before turning his attention back to the number one contender and begging him to get into the ring.

Explosions go off as the camera pans the sold out crowd in the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. The theme music for Salvation, “Full Circle”, plays. After panning the crowd the scene shifts in on the announce table where the trio of JJ Adams, Johnson McConnell, and Jayden Skiles, are seated.

JJ Adams: Ladies and gentlemen, we welcome you to this special tag team edition of Salvation, here in Sacramento. We are only two weeks away from Battle by the Beach, and do we have a great card for you.

Jayden Skiles: Yes, we do. And the match I’m most looking forward to is the reunion of Slade and Jason Sandman as they take on the undefeated number one contender, Draco Dragotta, and his son, Kit Kobold.

Johnson McConnell: Not only that, the match is headlined tonight in a Tag Team Championship match when current champions, Rikers Demolition Squad defend against Henhouse Slaughter in what should be a great match.

JJ Adams: We got that a bunch more. But right now I’m told we have a camera following fan favorite Hungry Jack backstage. Let’s get this show started.

So Hungry

The camera is zoomed in on the face of Hungry Jack. On his face is nothing but sadness and longing. As the camera backs away, we can see Jack looking at a spread of food fit for kings.

Hungry Jack: So hungry…

The catering area has always felt like home to him. It was one of the best perks of the job. His stomach begins to rumble.

Hungry Jack: I know, but we can't…

As he sits there staring, various members of the Redemption staff help themselves to a bite to eat. It's like they are taunting him.

Hungry Jack: A small plate should be ok. I need energy for my match tonight. I can't wait to tear into Ares Bones.

Without even realizing it l, Jack has made it halfway to the catering tables. He then stops, thinking about Chance Field calling him Fat Ass Jack. This makes him angry.

Hungry Jack: No! You're better than this Jack. Show some self control, damn it!

He turns away from the food.

Hungry Jack: It's only twenty-five pounds. You can do it...

A smile comes to his face as he comes to a realization.

Hungry Jack: Once this is over I can feast...on the beaten carcass of Chance Field.

The smile on his face grows bigger.

Hungry Jack: You know what? I'm not so hungry anymore.

Angels and Airheads

A very fuzzy scene begins to open up on the RedempTRON, and initially, the Sacramento crowd doesn't know how to react.

"Ya know something? All of that aside, I really didn't think she had it in her!"

They POP. They recognize that voice!

Johnson McConnell: Oh GREAT.

The scene comes into focus, and we're looking at a corner of the female locker room. We're looking at Azurine Vebbins and Arley Kirk suiting up for their impending tag team contest, specifically, and the fans seem to be loving every second right now.

Arley Kirk: I'll give her an A plus PLUS for treachery, Azzy. But you better believe she's getting an F for guts. And it's a LOW F at that.

Arley smirks and quickly gives the lens, and subsequently the viewer, a fourth wall breaking wink before continuing.

Arley Kirk: Tell me. Is this where you saw yourself in 2021, AV? In Sacragotdangmento of all places, effectively playing chess with pigeons?

“Da Adorkable Angel” polishes her halo and notices her grappling gear’s zipper is stuck. Azurine responds with slightly pouty and perturbed lips.

Azurine Vebbins: Why does my wardrobe malfunction at da most inopportune times? As for where I saw myself in 2021, Arley? I imagined I’d be taken for more long walks on da beach and led onto dozens of dance floors. Bein’ rooked and pawned in a chess game wid pigeons was nowhere on my adorkable agenda…

Both the fans watching and Arley cannot help but chuckle as Azurine's zipper gets stuck.

Arley Kirk: Here, allow me.

Arley quickly finds the issue, and there is a slight wince from Azzy as AK simply yanks the tail of hair which had gotten stuck, proceeding to do up the zip.

Arley Kirk: Sorry. Gotta be cruel to be kind sometimes!

Arley pulls a very anime-like sheepish pose.

Arley Kirk: Anyhoo. You're right, yo. I didn't envision this either. I've been seeing this crap happen again and again in Redemption, Azzy. This is why tonight, I am so happy to be getting a piece of Emily. And her gotdang creepazoid manager, to boot. I feel that we, Alternate Dimension Angels, are going to really put some sparkle to the term 'Salvation', tonight!

Arley nods with confidence and the two bump elbows. As The Adorkable Angel speaks, her intense gaze never leaves the camera lens. She does subconsciously blush while discussing her dance partner and the upcoming tango.

Azurine Vebbins: No need to apologize. Just like my tush often asks to be shushed, deyr are times when my ponytail is awkwardly askin’ to be yanked. Gives me an incredible indication you have a great grasp for controllin’...whatever chaos could conspire when “Cookie” Emily Simms and her crumblin’ cornerman Eric Winters attempt changin’ da complexion of dis comin’ contest? I mean, you have firm hands, which we’ll need to humble dose hooligans. Hark, herald, and mark it on your calendars, chanters...Alternate Dimension Angels have arrived.

Before Azzy has even finished, the crowd was almost drowning her out, and AK found it tough to rein them back in!

J.J Adams: The Sacramento crowd is pretty excited about this new arrangement, it seems!

Arley Kirk: Yo Emily, you just LOVE blaming me for everything wrong with your career. Typical narcissist, just like ya dang partner. But you see this?

The fans pipe up a bit more as AK wraps an arm around Azzy and pulls her in close.

Arley Kirk: Ya lookin' at the physical representation of 'play stupid games, win stupid prizes', right here. Y'all got nobody else to blame. The only thing in question is which one of you is gon' get dive bombed first?

With that, Vebbins and Kirk bump elbows one last time as they stare out the camera intensely, and the crowd is all for it as we fade out.

J.J Adams: Alternate Dimension Angels taking on Emily and her manager! This is huge and it's coming up REAL soon!

Change of Attitude

The camera opens up to the inside of Emily’s dressing room to show the blond decked out in her usual wrestling attire, booty shorts with a black and purple tank top with blue knee pads and black wrestling boots laced with bright pink laces. Emily’s best friend and manager, Eric Winters, is dressed to fight as well. The two of them are going through a series of wrestling moves as they warm up.

Eric: So how are you feeling about tonight? You haven't said much about it all week.

Emily: I don’t care what it takes to get my hands on Arley but I’m going to! I should give her a repeat of last week just for shits and giggles!

Eric: You enjoyed that last week, didn’t you? Taking the chair to Arley!

Emily: Damn right I enjoyed it! She deserved it, if she hadn’t been so busy trying to take me out, she probably would have been able to kick out! Regardless of the fact that his feet were on the ropes. They’re useless, both of them are, I swear to god!

Emily threw her hands up in frustration as she began to pace as she often did when she was nervous.

Eric: Are you ready for this tag team match?

Emily: Damn right I’m ready! I’m ready to take Arley out!

Eric: Don’t lose sight of the ultimate goal here, Emily.

Emily:Yeah yeah, Eric I know! I just wish...

Eric:You wish what?

Emily: That Trixie would text me...she’s supposed to be my best friend.

Emily and Eric hug before they leave the dressing room and head down the hall towards the gorilla position. As the scene fades away, the camera catches Emily and Eric hugging again and resting their foreheads together.

Arley Kirk & Azurine Vebbins
vs
Emily Simms & Eric Winters

Adam Lowe: An opening match is known to set the bar for the show going forward, and evidently, Emily Simms and her manager Eric Winters taking on Azurine Vebbins and Arley Kirk of the newly formed Alternate Dimension Angels promised to do just that!

This one kicked off with Eric Winters squaring off against the Suicide Blonde who literally put Eric through his paces. Eric seemed to be laser focused on bringing the pain early on, but Arley Kirk just proved too elusive! Winters spent the first part of this match taking arm drag after arm drag, kick after kick. The fortunes of his team didn't turn around until Arley sent him flying with a wild springboard hurricanrana right into range for Emily to tag herself in and cut Arley in half with a brutal running spinebuster and punch flurry. From here, Emily took the driver's seat, and here is where it gets interesting - let's go to the match!

JJ Adams: The newfound ferocity of Emily Simms is a sight to behold!

Jayden Skiles: Yes, it's wonderful. Anyway, Simms is dragging Lucha Barbie up by the scruff of her neck right here!

The fans BOOO as Emily secures AK in a headlock, runs forward and drives her head into the top turnbuckle. Arley falls back and Emily quickly looks around before quickly climbing to the top..

JJ Adams:: FROGSPLAA..~

Arley pops her knees up at the last second and Simms hits hard, bouncing off clutching her midsection.

Johnson McConnell: Arley slowly crawling over with Vebbins chomping at the bit to get the tag in!

JJ Adams: Can she do it?

The crowd starts to BOO as Emily traps Arley's ankle and tries to reel her back to the middle of the ring, but they POP as Arley kicks her away, kips up to her feet and takes Emily out with a basement dropkick!

Johnson McConnell: And a rolling wheel kick for Winters! That'll learn him for trying to take advantage!

JJ Adams: Here we go! Azzy's IN!

Azurine leaps over the top rope and takes Emily down with a running high knee! And a running dropkick for Winters!

Jayden Skiles: Vebbins hitting the ropes and Simms getting a face full of running DDT! Here's a cover!

ONE
TWO
T..

JJ Adams:: Emily Simms gets the shoulder up.

Azzy doesn't waste any time trying to drag Emily to her feet, but the ref is distracted with Winters so he doesn't see the low blow!

Johnson McConnell: Blatant cheating by Simms here! I don't know what's got into her!

Emily sneers as she seizes Azzy in a front face lock and then swings her around and dumps her with a neckbreaker. Arley seems to growl and say something inaudible to Emily as she looks right at Arley and smiles contemptuously. Emily doesn't break her gaze as she drags Azzy back to her feet and then hauls her over into hers and Eric's corner, trying to drive Azzy's face into Eric's waiting boot..

JJ Adams: Vebbins slips out of the way and gets the go behind on Simms! Half nelson suplex and a roll through pin!

ONE
TWO

The crowd BOO as Eric runs in to break up the count and the referee hustles him back to his corner, once more, not seeing it as Azurine tries to haul Emily up but gets a throat punch for her trouble!

Johnson McConnell: Sacramento ain't into Simms a hell of a lot. Listen to them.

Crowd: BOOOOOOOOOO

Jayden Skiles: Who gives a damn what Sacramento is into? Simms is playing with smart money. And now it's Emily who gets to tag out to her partner! Ya see how it works?

As Eric runs in and seizes control of Vebbins, Emily deceptively jumps down to the floor and crawls under the ring out of sight..

JJ Adams: HUGE roundhouse kick to Vebbins from Winters! She's DOWN!

Crowd: BOOOO!!

Jayden Skiles: HAH! Simms crawled under the ring just to jawbreaker Kirk on the top rope!

As Arley recovers, her eyes narrow and suddenly she gets up. Emily laughs and starts to run, but she doesn't get far..

Johnson McConnell: GOD DAMN, KIRK LEAPT UP ON THE GUARD RAIL, RUNS ALONG IT AND…

JJ Adams: HUGE hang time and distance on that modified whisper in the wind! Nailed Simms right in the head!

Emily and Arley both crumble onto the ramp with the impact and proceed to roll around and screech in the midst of what can neither be described as a catfight or a brawl. Meanwhile in the ring..

JJ Adams: Winters with the Irish whip and the backdrop attempt!

Azzy lands on her feet perfectly, springboards desperately and nails Eric with a picture perfect headscissors takedown before instinctively going to tag AK...who isn't there. Azzy taps her feet and puts her hands on her hips as she spots Emily moving out of the way as Arley 450s into the ramp instead, and then she turns back around..

JJ Adams: WINTERS WITH THE POP UP POWERBOMB! Vebbins never saw it coming!

Azzy lands hard and Eric rolls her up

ONE
TWO
THREE

Jayden Skiles: Her stupid partner does it again!

[Donnie]

The Recruiter

The camera cuts to Stephen Rawlings in his locker room quizzically staring a piece of paper.

Stephen Rawlings: None of this makes any sense….

There is a knock on the door and Stephen looks up at it.

Stephen Rawlings: It’s open!

The door creaks open and Cross Delaney walks in.

Cross Delaney: I heard you were looking for me.

Stephen Rawlings: Aww and look at that. You came at my beck and whistle.

Cross Delaney: I was curious what YOU, of all people, wanted.

Stephen Rawlings: Last week's tag match was a mixed bag for me. On the one hand, you didn’t completely shit the bed. You reminded me how long you’ve fucking been doing this shit.

Cross Delaney: Thanks I-

Stephen Rawlings: -I wasn’t done….

Cross Delaney: Sorry.

Stephen puts the paper down and stands.

Stephen Rawlings: On the other hand, you almost lost to Lyric…. A girl…. A fucking girl, man. I had to save us.

Cross Delaney: Yeah, good call with the DQ. That would have been…. Embarrassing, to say the least.

Stephen Rawlings: Which part? Losing to a girl, or to a wrestler with a security guard as her partner?

Cross Delaney: Does it really matter?

Stephen Rawlings: I guess not.

Cross: What do you want, Rawlings? You called me here for a reason besides telling me I don’t completely suck…

Stephen Rawlings smiles and puts his finger on his nose.

Stephen Rawlings: See, you’ve been at this a while. You know what is what. I like that. I have a proposition for you. Now that I have my Teresa problem resolved and can finally get back to wrestling matches like I came here for, I need to become a contender. This late start has me way behind in the power rankings and if I ever want to compete for a title again… I need to fix it. That’s where you come in.

Cross Delaney: Sure… I’ll help however I can. Least I can do for almost making it worse last week.

Stephen Rawlings: That’s good to hear. I need to book a match for tonight. I need a big name opponent. An opponent that will make an impact when I beat them.

Cross Delaney: Well, I can’t guarantee that I’ll lose, but if it’s an opponent you want…. You got yourself a deal.

Stephen smirks.

Stephen Rawlings: Excellent. That’s exactly what I wanted to hear… Except for the whole losing thing. This isn’t a negotiation. You WILL lose for me.

Cross takes a deep breath.

Cross Delaney: Jobbing isn’t free buddy, so if that’s what you want. There best be SOME negotiations…

Stephen Rawlings: Fine… if you do this, I will give you my first title shot against me when I get the World Title back.

Cross Delaney: Oh man… I haven’t had a title shot in years. You have a deal…

Stephen Rawlings: Good… Have a seat… We have a lot to discuss.

Cross sits and the camera cuts.

Punk 101

The camera zooms in on a dressing room backstage. Unlike most of the other dressing rooms, there doesn’t appear to be any kind of refreshment fridge, or furniture. All there is in the room are a few folding chairs, a small fold up table, and a large speaker.

Lux Haze is leaned against the wall, her ankles folded over one another, and her phone in hand.

Lux Haze: Now that song was called “Waiting Room” by Fugazi. They come from a subgenre of punk called Post Hardcore.

Scarlett Payne is stretched out on the floor, relaxing and absorbing the music.

Scarlett Payne: Not bad, but the different genres are throwing me off, bro. What does Post Hardcore mean again?

She glances at Lux briefly.

Scarlett Payne: Acoustics are pretty good in here, huh?

Lux Haze: They are pretty killer. See, hardcore is a more aggressive form of punk. The sound is really driven by heavy bass with faster tempos. Post Hardcore draws from Hardcore, but it’s less strict in the rules. It allows a more creative box of music. Not everything in Post Hardcore has to be fast and loud. Got me?

Scarlett nods her head.

Scarlett Payne: I like fast and heavy - remember I’m an original Avenged Sevenfold deathbat bitch? My Huntington Beach homies can seriously jam, ya know? So what’s next, Hazy?

Lux Haze: I think you’ll like some Black Flag…hey, Scar, thanks for savin’ my ass last week against the incest crew. It’s much appreciated.

Scarlett laughs, smiling as she gets to her feet.

Scarlett Payne: C’mon my dude, like I’d leave ya hanging! Seriously, those two creep me out. Who fucks their bro on purpose? That’s just ewww. Like you wouldn’t do the same for me, right?!

Lux Haze: Ya know it. Only difference is I probably woulda chased em all the way to the parking lot. Thing with them, it’s not even the incest thing, it’s the entitlement. They think the world owes ‘em something, when everything I’ve ever had, I’ve had to fight tooth and nail for. It’s fuckin’ infuriating. They are literally everything I stand against.

Scarlett Payne: Ya remember the way we used ta beat little bitches like them on the regular, just on principle? I mean, they’re not even worthy enough to sniff Seven’s jock, ya know? How hard did we work our asses of on the circuit? Ya had ta earn your stripes on a board. These two are just an insult ta our way of life, ya know?

Lux Haze: They are. And they’ll get what’s coming to them soon enough. After all, karma is a bitch named Lux. But anyway, you’re a metal fan. Surely you know who Henry Rollins is, right?

Scarlett Payne: Hellz yeah! I’ve listened to a little Black Flag.

Lux Haze: Then if you know Black Flag, you’re next lesson in punk are the Sex Pistols..

Scarlett Payne: Sex Pistols. Got it. Ya know I do like the Ramones, right? I’m not a complete lost cause.

The duo’s laughter echoes as the scene fades out.

To Win or Not to Win

A camera cuts to the dressing room of Chance Field and Ares Bones. Ares is alone, with a pair of long black pants on. He’s shirtless, his hair in a bun. Sweat trickles down his chest as he does arm curls with solid black weights.

The door swings open to reveal the blonde bombshell, Mercy Payne. She’s decked out in her black leather and mesh ring gear and a black half shirt that shows off her toned midriff and is emblazoned with “Show No Mercy” written in metallic red script. Her long blonde locks are in loose, abundant curls. She closes the door behind her and takes a look around the room before focusing her emerald green eyes on Ares, letting a slow smile curve her lush lips. She advances into the room, closing the distance between them.

Mercy Payne: All alone, love?

He nods.

Ares Bones: Chance had some business to take care of. Said he’d be fine on his own. I just hope his mouth doesn't get him in trouble. So I figured I’d get warmed up for our match tonight.

He smiles.

Ares Bones: And I know what you’re thinking, dear. But this is work. When we get back to the hotel, maybe.

She laughs then leans over, placing a soft kiss on his lips.

Mercy Payne: Maybe? Like you can resist me, especially when I’m naked and determined. So who are we destroying tonight? They all look the same to me.

Ares Bones: You haven’t looked? Your girl Rosie’s across the ring from us tonight. This is your chance to make a statement before your title match in two weeks. It’s all about getting in her head. Break her confidence.

Mercy eyes him up, smiling.

Mercy Payne: I looked, I just got sidetracked when I saw your gorgeous, sweaty chest. So Rosie, huh? Well this just got a lot more exciting. I plan on taking that mouthy bitch apart piece by piece. And she’s partnering up with your tons of fun annoying gnat, isn’t she? I mean, it’s technically Chance’s problem, but that makes it yours by proxy. This could be a big opportunity for both of us. Speaking of, where’s Boy Wonder at with all of this?

Ares Bones: He’s coming to the ring with us. He has a vested interest in doing all he can to humiliate that fat fuck. Numbers can never hurt.

Ares stands up and pulls a towel from a nearby chair and wipes the sweat from his brow then he tosses the towel aside.

Ares Bones: Before we go out there, what do you want out of this? The win? Or damn the consequences and just go into destroy mode?

She steps up to Ares and circles his waist loosely.

Mercy Payne: I say fuck the win. Let’s inflict maximum damage and send a message to the entire roster. I say we show them all exactly how destructive we are together.

She places a light kiss on his lips and smiles seductively.

Mercy Payne: Besides, you know how inflicting pain just makes me hot. Admit it Ares, you hit the jackpot in the wife department.

Ares Bones: That I did. You fared pretty well yourself. Just keep in mind though, if you injure her, it just delays your chance to win the belt. So it’s a fine line you need to walk there. So control yourself out there.

She chews on her lower lip, contemplating his words.

Mercy Payne: You may have a point there, love. If I put her on the shelf, it does me no good just yet. But nothing says we can’t do everything but, right? Can we hurt that fat fuck Jack? C’mon love, don’t take all the fun out of it!

Chance Field: Nah, don’t hurt Fat Jack.

The camera pulls back to show Chance had just entered the room.

Chance Field: You hurt him, it just gives him an excuse. I’ve got other ideas for Fat Jack.

Chance goes to the fridge, opens it, pulls a bottle of water, then slams the door.

Chance Field: What the hell is this? This is VOSS! I told them I only drink Iceberg Water. How am I supposed to work under these conditions!

Mercy laughs, shaking her head.

Mercy Payne: Sounds like we need to teach them a lesson on how to treat the apex predators, doesn’t it?

As the trio laugh, the scene fades to black.

Ares Bones and Mercy Payne
vs
Hungry Jack and Rosie Sinn

Adam Lowe: Our second match of the special tag team edition of Salvation proved to be one of the most contentious occasions in the history of Redemption. Chance Field joined Ares Bones and Mercy Payne at ringside for this one, and as we kicked this off between the big men, Hungry Jack and Ares, Chance surely made no shortage of trouble. How much trouble, do you ask? Let's find out!

JJ Adams: After something of a false start, Hungry Jack bounces off the ropes and takes down Bones with a big shoulder block!

The fans BOOO as Chance gets up on the apron and begins cussing Jack out, causing Jack to sneer and make his way over.

Johnson McConnell: Jack can't afford to pay too much attention to the upstart Chance Field, lest it cost him!

Right as Jack is about to get his hands on Chance, Ares cuts him in half with a chop block from behind. The fans BOO as Jack falls across the middle rope, and Mercy applauds as Ares lays into him with strikes and kicks while Chance holds his throat down over the rope, the referee beginning his count

Johnson McConnell: What did I *just* say?

1
2
3
4..

Bones and Field relent before getting counted and Jack falls back to the mat, clutching his throat and gasping for breath. Ares doesn't give him the opportunity, dragging him up and drilling him with forearms before dragging him to the corner and getting a tag to Mercy Payne, who gets the immediate double leg takedown on Jack!

JJ Adams: Mercy, as vicious as ever!

As Mercy throws hand after hand into the face of Jack, Rosie gets the crowd behind him from the corner, inspiring Jack to catch one of Mercy's shots and hold onto her wrist as he gets back to his feet. Mercy struggles to break free before trying an open palm strike with her left, but Jack dodges!

JJ Adams: One punch, two punch! THREE COURSE MEAL! Payne looks out of it!

Jack reels Payne in for a huge sidewalk slam and covers

ONE
TWO
Area Bones dives in to break the pin up!

Jayden Skiles: I knew Bones was gonna have something to say about that!

Ares quickly checks on Mercy and then turns his attention to Jack, hauling him up and delivering a brutal knife edge which echoes.

JJ Adams: Mercy's suddenly back up now! OOF, what a jumping roundhouse to the back!

Jack stumbles as the referee orders Bones back to his corner, and Mercy tries for an irish whip, but Jack stands his ground..

Jayden Skiles: Reversal and Payne crashes into the opponents' corner! Tag to Rosie Sinn!

The fans are ecstatic as the Television champion leaps up to the top rope as Jack nails Mercy with a backbreaker..

JJ Adams: Backbreaker and guillotine leg drop combination on Payne! Sinn covers!

ONE
TWO
T..

JJ Adams: Damn it Field get the hell out of there!!

The fans BOOO as Chance breaks up the pin and proceeds to put the boots to Rosie before the ref hustles him out, but the damage is done. The fans BOOO as Mercy kicks Rosie in the back of the head before getting down and hooking her in her patented No Mercy submission!

Jayden Skiles: Mercy Payne is what one might call an opportunist, folks!

JJ Adams: She certainly is! Can Rosie fight her way out of this?!

The fans cheer Rosie on as she struggles to break free, and failing that, starts edging her way toward the ropes. Mercy tries to drag Rosie back towards the middle but the referee flags it as Rosie manages to get a foot on the bottom rope. Mercy seems FURIOUS as the referee starts to count.

1

JJ Adams: YES! She did it! Now Mercy is forced to break it up!

2

Johnson McConnell: Or is she?

Mercy seems to double down on the hold as Rosie passes out from the excruciating pain, leg still on the rope

3

Jayden Skiles: I don't think she has any desire to release the hold!

4

Jack gets in the ring to try to break it himself, but he is caught out with a DEAL BREAKER from Chance Field before he even gets there

5!

DING DING DING!

JJ Adams: This one's over! The referee is awarding this one to Sinn and Jack via disqualification! Bones and Field don't seem to care. Look at this!

The fans BOO as Ares takes to stomping Jack into oblivion while Chance Field and Mercy Pain drag the semi-conscious Rosie Sinn to her feet. Mercy hauls Sinn up in an Argentine backbreaker rack..

Johnson McConnell: LOOK! SCARLETT PAYNE and LUX HAZE TO THE RESCUE!

Scarlett and Lux storm the ring and both Field and Mercy scatter like cockroaches and start heading back up the ramp..

JJ Adams: ARES BONES is left holding the bag here!

The fans go crazy for Lux and Scarlett as Bones' head is met with sandwich superkicks, dropping him like a ton of bricks before they attend to Rosie and help her up. As Bones roles out to ringside and staggers up the ramp to meet Mercy and Field, the two factions face off one last time before we cut to commentary.

JJ Adams: Mercy Payne just can't help herself, Redemption fans! I'm so glad that Scarlett and Lux were on hand!

Jayden Skiles: Oh, shut it. Payne made more of a statement tonight than any of these goody two shoes losers!

[Donnie]

Best Friends Meet Again

Jason Sandman walks down the hall, trying to get back to his locker room after a quick smoke break. As Sandman comes around the corner, Toby Keller spots him and comes running up for an interview. Sandman debates just walking away, but figures he will give Keller a break.

Toby Keller: Ladies and Gentlemen, I am here with World Champion Jason Sandman. Jason, last week in a surprise, you came out to save Slade, who was being attacked by Draco Dragotta and Kit Kobold. You weren’t even supposed to be in the building as you were given the night off. Did you know something was going to happen?

Jason Sandman looks down at Toby Keller with disdain. Jason slaps the taste out of Toby Keller’s mouth. Keller gets himself back to his feet and holds the microphone back up to Jason.

Jason Sandman: I don’t think I like the way you’re talking. Where’s the sexy one that does this shit? Hell, give me Chance Field. That boy needs to be doing bitch work anyway.

Jason looks down at Toby again and realizes he’s not leaving.

Jason Sandman: Since you seem insistent on standing there, I guess I’ll answer the question. I was in the building because I am the Champion and because I wanted to be. You asked if I knew Slade was going to get attacked. You got slapped because that sounded accusatory and…..piss off I got more important people to talk to.

Jason Sandman turns his attention away from Toby Keller and towards Slade and Roxanne Spaulding, who just turned down the hall.

Slade looks up from his serious conversation with Roxy and notices Sandman assaulting Toby Keller. He smirks in approval.

Slade: It's the motherfucking Danger Man, live and in person... and Toby.

Roxanne Spaulding: How the hell are you, Jason?

Toby Keller: Don't answer that, it's a trick--

Roxanne Spaulding: Shut up, Toby. We all know about your collection of Pokemon cards. Still trying to catch 'em all?

Slade grins and extends a hand to his long-time friend.

Slade: I see that Toby wasting real wrestlers' time isn't restricted to just me.

Jason Sandman looks over at Toby Keller.

Jason Sandman: Didn’t I tell you to piss off? Guess I need to hit you harder.

Jason Sandman reaches back to give a proper backhand to Toby Keller, but Toby drops the microphone and runs off, leaving a line of piss behind him.

Jason Sandman: I told him to piss off. I didn’t mean literally. Remind me to set him up on a date with Rawlings.

Jason Sandman turns his attention to Slade and Roxy. Jason shakes Slade’s hand and gives him a bro hug. Jason then turns his attention to Roxy and gives her a real hug.

Jason Sandman: Just like old times. What old folks home have you been hiding in, John?

Slade: Well, I heard the folks in charge of this place had put you at the top, so I had to come back and put you in your place, and this was as fast as I could get here.

Roxy slugs him in the arm.

Slade: Hey! What was that for?

Roxanne Spaulding: You better be joking.

Slade: He started it!

The big Texan smiles.

Roxanne Spaulding: I told him to pay his respects sooner. He doesn't listen.

Slade: She's right, I don't. So what was Toby yammering about?

Jason Sandman: He wanted to know why I was in the building last week when LaChance gave me the week off and was I there because I knew you would be attacked. Felt like he was implying I had something to do with it. We got enough respect that if I’m gonna shoot on ya, Imma put the barrel to your head and let you see it coming. That’s what he was bothering me with. Tonight though. We prove the bond we have. We prove that we still the baddest bastards on the block.

Slade: As far as last week goes, I know you well enough to know you're not the sneak attack type. We've been dueling up and down the roads for almost a decade; not our style.

He stops and thinks for a moment, absently touching the bandage covering his stitches.

Slade: Thanks, man. No bullshit. That fuckin' kid needs to learn a lesson. Tonight? We issue our receipt.

Jason Sandman looks around for a moment.

Jason Sandman: I know that little creep's around here somewhere hiding, but still wants the scoop, so here you go Toby. Draco, Kit what happened last week was bull shit. You wanted to send a message. I can dig it, but you decided to send a message through the wrong man. You see, you don’t know Slade quite yet. You will tonight. You two have been around and you’ve seen how I’ve let some things happen that a year ago I wouldn’t have. You mistake my thinking out process for going soft. You just reminded me that I haven’t taken a proper head in awhile. You keep wanting to prove a point. Well boys, you are about to get four very sharp points because you just fucked with the wrong bulls. I am going to collect someone’s blood tonight. Tonight, the New Age Punisher comes out to play. Deal with it, bitches.

Slade grins ear to ear.

Slade: I've missed you, man. You don't know how to come visit people?

Roxy grins and slips an arm through Slade's.

Roxanne Spaulding: For real, Danger Man. We live in Texas. You could come down any time. We have guns, alcohol, and acres of farmland! Parties can be had!

Slade and Roxy head off towards their locker room as Sandman watches them walk away. Sandman then looks down the hall where Toby Keller ran off to.

Jason Sandman: Got to remember to make both Toby and Rawlings Grindr accounts so they can fall in love.

Jason Sandman walks back towards his locker room so he can prepare for his match later in the night.

Proclamation

“Born For Greatness” starts to blare in the arena. As the “2X Sucks” chants come to life, the duo of Xander Maxwell and Xavier Cross enter the arena. Xavier, with nothing on but his blue jeans, has his body oiled up and looks at his cell phone. His partner, in every way, carries a microphone in his right hand as Xander taunts the fans with a sneer on his face while the duo eventually make their way into the ring and address the crowd.

Xander Maxwell: This whole night is a farce.

Crowd: BOO!!!

Xander Maxwell: They call this a special night; the Tag Team Edition, but I see two major things wrong with this night that make it a joke. First, the best damn tag team on the roster, 2X, are on the precard. While makeshift bullshit teams like Cross and Dixie, or Pandora and Roxy, get time on Prime Video, we are relegated tonight to winning an in an impressive fashion on YouTube. It’s poor booking. I mean, do you put Lebron on the day game and then let also rans have the primetime? It’s stupidity, isn’t that right, Xavier.

Xavier looks up from his phone like a deer in headlights.

Xavier Cross: Huh?

Xander Maxwell: Us not booked tonight on the main card.

Xavier Cross: Oh, right, that. It makes no sense. We are a draw. I mean, all you have to do is look at me. This body, these muscles.

He starts flexing his pectorals.

Xavier Cross: This all deserves its own television series. So why give it away for free on YouTube? It’s ludidiocious.

Xander Maxwell: You mean ludicrous.

Xavier Cross: That’s what I said, ludidiocious.

Xander shakes his head.

Xander Maxwell: The second thing wrong with this, the damn main event. Henhouse Slaughter pisses, whines, and moans on Twitter about a title shot, so team Prison Sex gives it to them, just like that. A team that is yet to beat us, a team that we put out of the tag team battle royal, jump the line ahead of us for a title match? Where’s our title match? Where’s our main event? We are the face of this division. That’s why I’ll make a proclamation right here right now.

Xavier Cross: Why would you make a proclamation? Don’t you already have one? I could have swore I played with it last night.

Xander Maxwell: That’s a prostate. Just…stand there and look good. Let me talk. (He turns back to the crowd). I’m making a proclamation now; Henhouse Slaughter WILL NOT win the tag titles tonight. And that’s a promise!

Xander slams the mic as the scene cuts away.

Setting Fires

Lucky Keenan is seated on the edge of a walkway as the arena is being set up for later in the night in a previously recorded segment. Still in his street clothes, Lucky looks relaxed.

Lucky Keenan: One day, long ago, Mr. and Mrs. Keenan had three sons. There were the twins, Drake and Blake. When they were eight, there was an accident and Drake didn’t survive, at least not in the natural sense. Blake somehow did, and thus was given the nickname Lucky. He didn’t feel too lucky to have lost a part of himself, but it was short lived as soon Drake joined him here.

Lucky taps his head.

Lucky Keenan: Then there was the third child; Damien. He was four years our junior. After the accident that befell Drake, we vowed to forever protect him; and protect him we did. That’s why we set the fire that first had us committed. It was destructive; Drake always loves destruction. It was protective; Blake is always protective. The fire began a chain of events that exposed our parents. The fire showed what was no accident a few years before.

Lucky sighs.

Lucky Keenan: Yes it sent us away. It was a sacrifice we made to save Damien from the fate that awaited him. It also taught us a lot about how we can function, how to act, when to act, and when to be real. The asylum was an education like none anywhere else could have offered us. It made us.

Lucky leans forward.

Lucky Keenan: Our whole life since that “accident” has been about protecting Damien at any and all costs. Jinx thinks she’s playing us right into her hands. She’s using my brother for bait when she doesn’t really understand the bond between us. Win or lose at Battle by the Beach, we will find a way. If we have to, we will set another fire again and watch the whole mother fucker burn!

Main Event Hour One
Draco Dragotta & Kit Kobold
vs.
Slade & Jason Sandman

Adam Lowe: Ladies and gentlemen we are at the halfway point of our evening, but that doesn’t mean that the action is slowing down. We have a main event level tag match coming to you right now. The father/son team of Draco Dragotta and Kit Kobold take on the team of Jason Sandman and Slade. This all started the second week back of Redemption in an eight man tag match where Kit Kobold ate a Kiss the Demon so his father wouldn’t. That gave Dragotta the opportunity to regain his composure and gain a win while pinning Jason Sandman in the process. Sandman made his promises for revenge then, not nothing ever came of it. That was until last week when Slade faced Dragotta and once again Kobold made his presence felt. Kit distracted Slade and gave his father yet another win. That wasn’t enough though. Dragotta and Kobold attacked Slade after the match with chair shots and stomps. Only by the luck of his best friend not listening to management, Slade was saved by Jason Sandman. Now we come to tonight and a tag match that could prove interesting to future events.

The entrances are shown. Dragotta and Kolbold come out together, and in a surprise move Slade and Sandman come out together to Slade’s music.

Adam Lowe: The match began as last week went with Draco Dragotta facing off with Slade. From there it was a back and forth affair. We now go to the end of the match and the thrilling conclusion.

—-

Slade grabs hold of Kit Kolbald and gives him a straight right to the face. As Kit goes down, Slade goes off the ropes and comes back with a leg drop.

1…
2.

JJ Adams: Kit Kobold is able to kick out. Slade gives another punch before putting Kit up to a seated position. Slade delivers kicks to Kobolds back.

Jayden Skiles: Slade is just trying to show his ass. Kit Kobold isn’t as trained as his father. Slade wouldn’t be doing this to Draco Dragotta.

Johnson McConnell: Maybe Slade would and maybe he wouldn’t. Kit is the one in the ring right now though.

Slade pulls Kit Kobold up to his feet and then throws the younger man into the corner. Slade comes in with a hard closeline, but Kit Kobold is able to get out of the way and Slade crashes into the turnbuckle. Kit Kobold crawls over to the corner and tags in Draco Dragotta. Dragotta is quick to jump in the ring and runs over to Slade and plants him in the mat with a sidewalk slam. Draco then pulls Slade up and hits him with a Smash Hit. Draco makes the cover.

1…
2..

JJ Adams: Slade is able to kick out, but he looks tired. He has been in the ring for quite a while. He needs to get Sandman tagged in.

Johnson McConnell: Indeed he does. Jason Sandman is hopping on the apron and I don’t think he’s gonna stay there much longer before he decides to get involved.

Jayden Skiles: Of course he will. That’s because he’s as dirty as all the wrestlers you complain about Johnson.

Draco Dragotta gets up to his feet and sees Slade getting himself up. Dragotta looks like he is ready to go for the end. With a look to see where Sandman is, Dragotta moves in to set up for Dragotta Driver, but Slade launches up for a near seven foot shoulder tackle. Both men go down. Slade starts to crawl towards Jason Sandman as Dragotta crawls over to Kit Kobold. Almost at the same time Slade and Dragotta get their tags. Sandman climbs into the ring and runs past Kit Kobold and does a baseball slide knocking Draco Dragotta off the apron. Kobold uses this moment to his advantage and goes running in for a slingblade. As he swings around Sandman, Jason stabs Kit with one of his spikes.

JJ Adams: Jason Sandman has cost his team the match by using that spike on Kit Kobold.

Jayden Skiles: This was all in his plan and you can’t tell me any different. The poor kid is bleeding.

Johnson McConnell: I wouldn’t try to. We all heard Sandman say he was out for blood tonight.

Jason Sandman picks Kit Kobold up and spikes him again. Sandman then again pulls Kit up and puts him in the move he calls You’re Fucked. As he pulls back on the sleeper he starts screaming at Dragotta.

Jason Sandman: DRAGOTTA!!!! I am a man of my word. I told you I am going to fuck you and this trash up TWICE for what you did last week and before. That’s one for your son. Yours comes when I see fit. Live in fear, because I’m not afraid of you. Oh and one more thing.

Jason Sandman lets go of the choke, and pulls Kit Kobold up before throwing him towards Slade who has Sandman’s chair. Slade connects with the chair shot to Kobold’s face, busting the young man open worse than he already was.

Jason Sandman: THAT’S TWO!!!

Sandman and Slade flip out of the ring and head through the crowd as Draco Dragotta climbs into the ring to check on his son.

[Donnie]

Whose Fate is That?

The scene cuts backstage to Casey Holliday. She’s walking through the hallway, appearing to be quite confident. She’s carrying the Belt of Ascension with her and coming off yet another victory and continuing to turn things around has definitely brightened her spirits. However, whatever good mood she was just in, is about to disappear. She stops right in her tracks as she looks directly at something that is off camera at the moment. Her good mood has changed to a mood of anger.

Casey Holliday: What the hell do YOU want?

In front of Casey Holliday stands Jake Mason, the man who has been a thorn in her side since she came to Redemption. As Mason stands in Holliday’s way it is obvious that his eyes still aren’t fully restored, and the gash across his throat still hasn’t closed. Mason seems to know who is front of him, but doesn’t seem to understand why she is in front of him. Jake Mason attempts to speak, but as his mouth starts to open, a finger appears and closes his lips. The Master appears from behind him and slinks around his body to the forefront.

The Master: Not yet, my pet. You aren’t ready for expression of thought yet. You are only now starting to see the world for what it is again.

The Master then turns his attention to Casey Holliday.

The Master: The question that should be asked, Casey, is what do you want. What drives you to come back to a life that hasn’t treated you in a way that your kind would call success? You seem so focused on a feeling that doesn’t guide you to your full potential. It only brings forth a feeling of wanting. A feeling of desire. A destiny in which you sit in your rocking chair old, regretful, and longing for that final breath. I have seen your final days. I have also seen a life worth pursuing. The question I have for you is are you ready to to strive for that life, or are you still longing to wallow in that depression you find yourself in this current reality? Think about that. You still have a few months until life collapses around you.

The Master then turns to leave and motions for Jake Mason to start following.

Casey Holliday: Odd… I thought Jake was the one that was supposed to be the prophet…

This slight wisecrack suddenly stops the Master and Jake from leaving.

Casey Holliday: Let me tell you something, “Master”. You’re not the first entity I’ve met in this business that thinks they know what my destiny is. You’re not the first person that I’ve met in this business that thinks that they know me. I’ll tell you one thing, the only one that gets to determine my destiny is me and me alone! My whole career, I’ve had other wrestlers, hell other companies, that have tried to determine that for me. Jake himself tried to do so starting from my very first match here. I’ll tell you what drives me and that’s the fact that I KNOW what I’m worth and that I KNOW what I’m capable of and I don’t give a CRAP if some moron stuck in a time warp says otherwise, what drives me is the KNOWLEDGE that I AM one of the absolute BEST at what I do! Throughout many years and many companies, my full potential has haunted me many times in many different ways to various degrees of cruelty at that and what I want? It’s to achieve the pinnacle of what my true potential is because unlike THIS GUY over here, I have that ambition. Jake, you’re just satisfied being this guy’s puppet! I have the strength! I have independence. The fact that I get to speak for myself while you could never do the same… you know what that tells me? It tells me that you don’t have faith in him. It tells me that he doesn’t have the courage to have faith in himself if he’s letting YOU pull the strings. So who’s ‘destiny’ were you describing? His? Or mine? The question isn’t what I want… it’s what HE wants… because CLEARLY, he’s been wanting something from me since day one… and I’ve HAD IT with waiting for answers so I’m going to get answers and I am going to get them NOW!

Casey carries an incredibly serious determination in her eyes. The Master gives an intrigued smile.

The Master: But you are not ready for answers yet. Your mind is only beginning to form a concept that you have value. You have believed, for so long, that you were somebody of note, not only do you realize now that you were living in your illusions. The dreams are over. To reference something you will understand..you have taken the red pill. Now it is up to you to decide how far your reality will take you. We may talk again, or maybe Jake Mason will be ready. Depends on how long you take to move forward.

The Master again turns her back and motions for Jake Mason to move along. This time, they actually get some distance on Casey Holliday. Casey looks like she wants to say something, but her anger has her holding back a bit. The reluctance in her eyes is clear as she allows The Master and Jake Mason to walk out of her sight, giving her plenty to think about as the scene cuts.

Hubris

Shifting away from Casey Holliday and Jake Mason, the tag team champs, Jupiter and Zeus, are standing by with Suzy Donnelly.

Suzy Donnelly: Tonight, you face off against Henhouse Slaughter in the main event for the tag titles. There’s a lot of talk of you offering them this match, but honestly, in all due respect, you two don’t seem like the type to just offer up title matches.

Zeus: What types do we seem like? Do we seem like some assholes who hide behind titles and stipulations? Like pussies afraid to fight? I’ll fight anyone at the drop of a hat. I’ll make them..

Jupiter: Settle down, Zeus. Yes, tonight we defend our titles against Henhouse Slaughter. Do not think for a moment that this is out of some sense of honor or obligation. This is far from me being a nice guy and doing the right thing. It’s a matter of hubris. I know, pride is one of the seven deadly sins, but we are all sinners, and hubris may be the greatest sin. But let me ask this; is it a sin if I have the utmost confidence in what Zeus and I can do in that ring? This isn't about giving Henhouse Slaughter what they deserve, or cutting them break, or some kind of misplaced respect. This is about the confidence in what we do. We destroy, plain and simple. We are the champions because we are the best at what we do. It’s not some wild proclamation, it’s a fact. A fact that can be proven by the fact that we hold these belts. If someone is good enough to take these titles off of us, then we don’t deserve them, it’s that simple. But that doesn’t change the truth of the situation.

Suzy Donnelly: What’s the truth of the situation?

Zeus: The truth? The truth is tonight I don’t want to just win, I want to hurt someone. I want to feel the skin break, the blood seep, the bones snap. I want to feel the cracking of my knuckles against their jawline, the ball of my foot slam against their chest and take the breath from them. It’s not until I feel this that I can sleep at night.

Zeus looks at Jupiter.

Zeus: I know, I know, you do most of the talking, but sometimes you just go on and on when I can put things so much better. I’m sure this wasn’t your truth, but this was my truth.

Zeus looks back at Suzy.

Zeus: And you want my other truth?

Suzy Donnelly: What’s your other truth?

Zeus: My other truth is that I want to rip the heart from the beating chest of Cattle Drive Crew. See, where we come from, you are only as good as your name, and when you step on to that yard, you best damn put some respect on our names. I wanted to come out last week after they won the tag title contenders match and just snap necks and break some bones, but Jupiter talked me down. He reminded me that to rule the yard, you have to sometimes show restraint. So, we went to the ring to show some restraint, weigh our opponents, and in return those mother fuckers disrespected the name Rikers with their fucking antics. Titles or no titles, when I get my hands on...

Jupiter puts his hands on his friend's chest.

Jupiter: Calm yourself. One thing at a time. Henhouse first, Cattle later.

Jupiter turns his focus back to Suzy.

Jupiter: When he does speak, he usually has something to say.

Suzy gazes at the two, unsure of what to make of it as the camera pulls away.

Old School Meet New

The camera fades in on the dressing area of Slade and Roxy, which seems to be offering a rare look inside the room from outsiders. The room is silent, with Roxy changing into her wrestling gear for the first time in 4 years. As she finishes putting her gear on, the silence is shattered by the big Texan, grinning ear to ear.

Slade: FUCK. YES!

Roxy looks up, returning his smile.

Roxanne Spaulding: So it went well... I'm guessing you and Jason won?

Slade: What? No. Of course not. That snake Dragotta got his hand raised.

Roxanne Spaulding: Then why are you--?

Slade: Because that little shitbird Kit got his receipt. Danger Man spiked the kid, and then I smashed his face in with a chair.

Roxanne Spaulding: So you two--

Slade: Got disqualified. Yeah. Sometimes, you have to do your best to cash out, and other times, the message matters more.Tonight, the message got fuckin' sent.

Roxy rises to her feet and wraps her man in a hug.

Roxanne Spaulding: Feels good to see you happy for a change. Now, how do I look?

She does a small spin, accenting her lithe form.

Slade: I think those good ol' boys aren't gonna know what to do with you and Miss Pandora tonight. They'll be too busy droolin' to fight y'all. Hell, I'm droolin' now.

Roxanne Spaulding: You're doing something alright.

She smirks wickedly.

Roxanne Spaulding: I guess I should go see where the kid's head is at. Make sure she's not hyperventilating over working with me and whatnot.

Slade: I'm sure she's fine. Probably admiring your autograph tattoo as we speak.

Roxy sighs.

Roxanne Spaulding: You really think she got that tattooed on her?

Slade grins.

Slade: One way to find out.

He ushers her into the hallway, toward Pandora Ravencraft's dressing area, searching for Roxy's tag team partner for the night.

The door to the room is open.Pandora has seating in her dressing room, but is sitting on the floor, back leaning against the wall, legs extended out and ankles crossed over one another. She has on her purple and green wrestling gear, along with a pair of wireless earbuds in her ears. She bobs her head up and down as she reads from the tablet in her hand, oblivious to the world around her.

Roxy pokes her head in and sees that Pandora is reading. She smirks.

Roxanne Spaulding: Wanna surprise the kid?

Slade looks in as well, noticing how Pandora is completely oblivious.

Slade: Might help her out. I'll go first--you might do more harm than good.

He smirks in return and enters the dressing room, tapping Pandora on the shoulder.

Pandora grunts without looking up.

Pandora Ravencraft: I’m reading. It’s not match time. Tap me when it’s match time.

Slade taps her again, this time on her head.

Slade: Strategy time, kiddo.

Then he waits.

She looks up, then suddenly smiles. She pulls out her earbuds and jumps to her feet, wrapping her arms around Slade’s waist in a huge hug.

Pandora Ravencraft: Oh!! It’s you!! Sorry I thought it was production. I was reading Candlekeep Mysteries. It’s a D&D book of modules.

Slade smiles.

Slade: Different strokes. But I'd advise sItting facing the door. Next time, it might not be so friendly.

Roxy enters.

Roxanne Spaulding: So are we focused? This is a big deal.

Pandora releases her hug.

Pandora Ravencraft: I’m a little nervous, that's why I was reading that. I’m supposed to DM a game tomorrow night but I don’t know the book well enough. And these aren’t noobs, they are big time players.

Roxy looks at Slade, then back at Pandora.

Roxanne Spaulding: Kid, we came by to talk about the match. If you're nervous, just rely on your training. You DO have solid training, right?

Slade: Rox…

Pandora Ravencraft: I DO have training. I trained at Gateway. I learned from awesome people like Ram, Johnson McConnell, and Derek Daughtery. I just figured I was tagging up with someone as epic as you that I didn’t have anything to worry about. I mean c’mon, you ARE Roxy Spaulding, see…

She shows her the fresh arm tattoo of Roxy’s autograph.

Pandora Ravencraft: Besides, Johnson always said “Don’t be nervous, things could always be worse. You could be Stephen Rawlings.” Which makes sense. I could never embarrass myself that bad and he still has a career, so why worry, right?

Roxy chuckles in spite of herself.

Roxanne Spaulding: You've got a point there, kid. And I do appreciate the flattery. I've never had my signature tattooed on someone before. Guess it's a good thing I didn't sign your forehead, like I first thought.

Slade: You weren't--

Roxanne Spaulding: Hell yes I was. I didn't know how serious the kid was. Now I know.

She smiles, a smile that comes off more threatening than friendly, that may be by design.

Slade: She has a name, Roxy.

Roxanne Spaulding: And I'm sure it's even a good name.

Slade: That's not fair, and you know it.

She bobs her head.

Pandora Ravencraft: He’s right. I do have a name. Pandora. Or you can call me Pan. Or you can also call me Penny, but only my friends call me Penny. So if we are becoming friends, then Penny is totally cool.

Slade looks at Roxy expectantly.

Roxanne Spaulding: What?

Slade: She deserves an answer.

Roxanne Spaulding: I'm thinking.

Slade grimaces a little.

Roxanne Spaulding: Alright, alright. Penny it is.

She turns to Slade.

Roxanne Spaulding: You remember how long it took for me and Jason to get on, right?

Slade: And she--

He points to Pandora.

Slade: --isn't trying to actively kill me, like Danger Man was at first, is she?

Roxy looks at the floor.

Roxanns Spaulding: No.

Slade: Then knock it off, will ya? Miss Pandora is a fantastic kid, and from what her trainers say, a fantastic student who's ready to go to the next level. She just needs a break from a couple'a old heads like us.

Pandora Ravencraft: Yeah, what he said. And I’d NEVER try to kill anyone, unless they were like a Beholder, or Owlbear or something.

Then she slaps Slade on the arm.

Pandora Ravencraft: You hear that BG, she called me Penny.

Slade: I think she sees more in you than even you do.

Roxy turns back to Pandora with a stern look on her face.

Roxanne Spaulding: Don't let it go to your head. Nothing worse than a rookie who reads her own press clippings. The last thing we need is another Bree situation around here.

Slade: She's nothing like--

Roxanne Spaulding: Bup-bup!

She puts her hand up to silence the big man.

Roxanne Spaulding: My lesson, my rules.

She quickly whirls around to Pandora again.

Roxanne Spaulding: Stay hungry, but humble out there. It can all be gone in an instant. As for tonight... let's put on a show they'll remember forever.

She then softens her smile and extends a hand to her. Pandora doesn’t shake it, instead slaps her five.

Pandora Ravencraft: That I can do. I’m so ready to go out there and kick some cowboy ass. Let’s do this!

She starts jumping up and down to psyche herself up as the scene cuts away.

Cattle Drive Crew
vs
Pandora Ravencraft & Roxy Spaulding

Adam Lowe is standing next to the 4K monitor as highlights of the next match flash across the screen.

Adam Lowe: Next up on this tag team edition of Salvation are the number one contenders, Cattle Drive Crew, squaring off against Pandora Ravencraft, in the second match of her career, teaming up with long time veteran, Roxy Spaulding, in her first match in years.

Adam Lowe: Before the match started, Belle Lavaneau came to ringside and had a seat in a chair to watch the match. Pandora and Roxy had a good showing, but at times didn’t mesh well as a first time tag team against an established veteran team. They fought from under well though, with determination and grit. Towards the end of the match, they posted a big comeback that had the crowd lit up. This is where we head to the finish.

*****

Boomer Johnson swings a wild punch at Pandora, who ducks underneath it, hits the ropes and comes back with a handspring cutter.

Johnson McConnell: Check out the athleticism by our girl, Pan!

JJ Adams: She definitely surprised Boomer by taking him off his feet.

Boomer gets back to his feet, but is met with a corkscrew roundhouse kick before she tags in Roxy. Roxy springboards into the ring with a 450 splash and covers.

…1
…2
..Boomer kicks out.

JJ Adams: Textbook 450 splash by the veteran almost closed this one out.

Jayden Skiles: Thank God that didn’t happen! I can’t stand anything even remotely related to Slade’s happiness.

Roxy goes right back at it, not giving him enough time to recover. She hits a series of kicks and then hits a ricochet leg drop and goes for the pin.

…1
…2
..Samuels breaks the count.

JJ Adams: Excellent tag team work by Samuels with the last second save.

Johnson McConnell: Cattle Drive Crew are working like a well oiled machine.

Samuels tosses Roxy into his corner then comes at her with a running uppercut, the force lifting her off her feet. Pandora tries to come in, but the referee stops her and orders her back to her corner. As Pandora argues, Samuels chokes Roxy on the top rope.

As the referee turns his attention back to the action, Samuels gets tagged in. Samuels climbs back into the ring and hits repeated knees in the corner, then he tucks her up and powerbombs Roxy.

JJ Adams: Samuels using his strength and size advantage to keep Roxy on the defensive.

Jayden Skiles: That powerbomb looked like it rattled the couple of marbles left in that airhead.

Meanwhile, outside the ring, Belle Laveneau has gotten up from her seat and starts yelling at Pandora. Pandora hops off the apron and starts arguing with Belle.

Back in the ring, Samuels tags Johnson back in. The two then go for a double powerbombs, but Roxy manages to hop over both and runs to her corner, only Pandora is still distracted by Belle and isn’t there.

JJ Adams: Rookie mistake by Ravencraft.

Roxy turns around only to get met with a big boot from Johnson. Then he and Samuels hit a Inverted Death Valley Driver / Double Leg Slam combo.

Johnson McConnell: That mistake led to Country Strong Style by Cattle Drive Crew.

JJ Adams: You have to give the assist to Belle though.

Johnson pins. Pandora takes notice and tries to rush the ring but is cut off by Samuels as the referee counts.

…1
…2
…3

The bell rings as Cattle Drive Crew win.

As Cattle Drive celebrates another win, Belle backs up the ramp laughing at Pandora.

[Donnie]

Unconditional Love

In front of a camera stands Landon Dalmon. He isn't at the arena, but instead, is in a home gym. He isn't dressed in his usual ring gear but instead a designer suit.

Landon: I know all of you people of Sacramento were expecting to see my sister and I in person. I wouldn't even be surprised if half the fans in attendance aren't even wrestling fans. Unlike the rest of Redemption, our popularity extends much further than "the business". How can you have a tag team show without the best team on the planet?

His spectacular sister walks into the view of the camera. The sight of fresh blood on her knuckles is hard to miss.

Landon: I thought you wouldn't be joining me.

Lizzy: I wasn't, but it's no fun when they can't fight back. After last week, someone had to pay for the disrespect.

The camera begins to pan in the direction that Lizzy came from.

Lizzy: Hey! You're paid to film me. There's nothing to see over there. Now do your job!

Landon. I was just about to get to that, my sweet sister. Last week, Lux Haze got lucky when she beat you.

Lizzy: Who does she think she is?!

Landon: Exactly! That's why I showed her what happens when you mess with The Dalmons.

He smiles at his sister.

Landon: But…

Lizzy: Then that bitch Scarlett Payne stuck her nose where it didn't belong!

She looks down at her hands.

Lizzy: I wish this was her blood!

Landon: It will be soon. Now apparently, they formed some sort of tag team earlier that night.

Lizzy: That's not the same as family!

Landon: I know, sis. We don't pick and choose when we have each other's backs.

Lizzy: Haze of Payne has no idea what they started. It's going to suck for them when I get my hands on them. I will not be mocked!

Landon: They're just jealous. They don't understand what it's like to have someone love them unconditionally. They pander to people for acceptance and approval. It's sad.

Lizzy: You're probably right. It doesn't mean I'm going to show pity on them.

Landon: Of course not, sis.

She stares into the camera.

Lizzy: You bitches are dead!

As she continues to stare into the camera, her brother wraps his arms around her.

Decent

The feed transitions fluidly to the back halls of the Golden 1 Center where the talent is being housed. The off-kilter former Television champion, Lyric is making her way to the dressing room of her tag team partner, Lucky Keenan. The petite blonde is already in her red and black ring gear, a black half shirt with “My Demons Love to Cuddle” written in metallic red script and her hair pulled up in high ponytails tipped black and red.

Lyric: C’mon guys, ya know we need to get focused now! I can’t have you two bitching and moaning right now.

She pauses briefly, chewing on her lower lip.

Lyric: No, I haven’t exactly introduced Abby yet, but I’m sure he’ll be cool with it..

That’s when she reaches Lucky’s door, her voice trailing off as she knocks quickly and enters the room with her hand over her eyes.

Lyric: Yo Lucky, ya decent?

Lucky Keenan: Depends on decent. If you mean are we decent people, I am but Drake’s not. If you mean in the ring, then we are both better than decent. If you mean looks-wise, well, that’s in the eye of the beholder. So maybe we are decent, maybe we aren’t.

Lyric giggles, taking her hand down from her eyes.

Lyric: Well when you put it that way, I’d say you’re pretty decent but I meant your um - nakedness. I didn’t want ya thinking I was tryin’ to catch you in the buff or anything.

Lucky Keenan: We once met a man who wore all black with a white collar and wore a rosary. He said we are all naked in the eyes of the lord. And they say we are crazy while people like that walk around. What’s wrong with this world?

Lucky whispers to himself.

Lucky Keenan: We going to unleash a cauldron of madness on them tonight?

Lyric gives a slight shiver at the mention of a priest.

Lyric: I stay as far away from organized religion as possible. Too many crazies for my taste. But I do kinda need to let ya know about my new addition. See, Xaxis was getting a little lonely plus Rawlings was being a big bag of ducks so I um - called in some reinforcements.

She shuffles her feet anxiously.

Lyric: So just so everyone is familiar - I’d like to (rolls her eyes) introduce, although I’m not sure that’s exactly what that means since I’m the only one that can hear her, but anyway Abbadon, this is Lucky.

She turns a bright shade of red while listening.

Lyric: There’s absolutely no way I’m saying that! Now, quiet you two! Sorry, with Abby’s non stop chattering, it’s hard to focus, especially when their minds are in the gutter. So, now I guess we’re a little extra crazy which works in our favor, doncha think?

Lucky Keenan: Crazy, possessed, DiD, it all bears the same type of fruit. That fruit is poisonous to whoever tries to bite it. The question tonight is,how deep do they bite? And tell Abby if she isn’t listening, that we are honored she finds us above simply decent.

Lyric covers her face for a moment, talking to herself.

Lyric: Damn it, we’re not talking about my tinglies! (to Lucky) Oh believe me, she loves that. I’ll be hearing about it for days. But I was thinking that maybe we bite just a little harder than normal, ya know? I wanna win plus, if I let them loose for a little bit, my life becomes so much easier. You game to take a bite?

Lucky gives a crazy smile.

Lucky Keenan: Punching, scratching, biting…dick kicks. We are down for all of it. If you do something, do it right.

Lyric: Absolutely! And ya know we all go a little mad sometimes so let’s show ‘em how it’s done!

The scene fades out.

Lessons Learned

Cutting away from the The Madness, the scene transitions to a dimly lit, expansive dressing room. There are standing candelabra with black and silver candles illuminating the room, sheer black draperies strewn along the walls, each with silver stars and pentacles dangling. The floor has a plush black and red rug with a demon trap design. The camera sweeps across the room, finally settling on the red leather chaise where the High Priestess of the Nameless, Jinx is lounging, book in hand. She’s elegantly dressed in a floor length red and black gown, the bodice is black form-fitted with red laces while the skirt is red chiffon with silver stars and pentacles embroidered along the bottom. Her white hair is coiffed in an elaborate set of braids that have black and red ribbons woven in.

Without raising her onyx gaze from her tome, she addresses her second-in-command, Bael.

Jinx: What did you think of our victory tonight, Bael? Did my Nameless perform well? I just couldn’t tear myself away from my reading to be bothered.

The enormous wall of muscle known as Bael casts his intimidating gaze at her, turning her inquiry over in his mind for a moment. He’s seated to her right in a plush chair that has been custom made to accommodate his size. Bael finally shrugs his shoulders.

Bael: They accomplished their goal. Beyond that, I can’t say it was anything impressive.

He flicks his gaze over to the lone Nameless in the room, Lucky’s brother, Damien, before her light laughter draws his attention. Damien is kneeling in the corner opposite of Jinx and Bael.

Jinx: No one is impressive compared to you, Bael. That much is crystal clear.

She finally looks up, her eyes coming to rest on Damien.

Jinx: No one expected that turn of events. He’s useful for now. Once Lucky belongs to me, he will either fall in line like his brother or he will never see him again. His willfulness has exasperated what patience I have.

Bael: I have some very personal lessons in mind after last week. Although…

He looks at her questioningly. Jinx simply smiles sadistically and waves her hand, the flames of the candles growing twice in size.

Jinx: Of course you can begin his education now. Lucky needs to understand that every time he lashes out like last week, that the consequence is delivered upon his dear brother.

With a flick of her hand, Damien’s vest disappears. Bael smirks and rises as the scene fades to black.

Anthony Cross & Trixie Decker
vs
The Madness

Adam Lowe: Next on the night on this great tag team episode of Salvation is Lyric and Lucky Keenan, known collectively as The Madness as they square off against the newly formed team of Anthony Cross and Trixie Decker, a unique team in the sense that Cross has just recently become the number one contender for Trixie’s Dominion Championship.

The early take on this match was a lot of fast action and quick tags, even from the bigger men in the match, keeping the crowd on the edge of their seat. Surprising to everyone was also the near flawless teamwork of Cross and Decker, who worked well together and actually had a slew of solid double team moves. Let’s head down to ringside for the finish of this one.

**********

Lucky gives Trixie a stiff right to the gut then hits a standing drop kick. Trixie get back up quickly but is hit with a discus clothesline.

JJ Adams: Strong lariat from Keenan.

Johnson McConnell: This whole match has been great. Both teams have looked excellent here.

Jayden Skiles: I just want less wrestling and more violence. I mean look what’s in this ring?

Lyric grabs and springboards over with a dropkick as Lucky lifts her up into a belly to back suplex.

JJ Adams: Nice double team. Lyric covers.

ONE…..
TWO…..
T-Cross breaks the count.

Jayden Skiles: Anthony Cross says “I don’t think so.”

Johnson McConnell: What’s been impressive here is these are two newly formed teams who both seem to have a good tandem offense already.

Cross starts to lay into Lyric with the fists flying. Lucky spins him around from behind and hits a snap DDT before being ordered back to his corner.

JJ Adams: Referee Mike Bennington trying to keep order here.

Johnson McConnell: He’s definitely one of the best when it comes to multi person matches.

Jayden Skiles: He needs to just let it all go. This match has so much potential.

Lyric begins to focus on Trixie. She hits her with a spinning wheel kick then follows it up with a standing moonsault.

JJ Adams: Nice combination. Lyric covers.

ONE…..
TWO…..
THR- Trixie kicks out.

The crowd breaks out into rival “Lyric” and “Trixie” chants. Lyric pulls Trixie up and whips her into the ropes. When Trixie comes back at her, Lyric ducks under a dropkick, rolling on the mat. Then Trixie hits an atomic drop followed by pele kick.

JJ Adams: Trixie with the counter.

Johnson McConnell: That’s why she’s your Dominion champion.

Jayden Skiles: But for how long? Her and Cross are on a collision course and I think this new team implodes because of it.

Trixie tags in Cross and then rolls to the apron. Cross comes running into the ring and nails a spear on Lyric.

JJ Adams: He nearly ripped her in half with that spear. Cross covers.

ONE…..
TWO…..
THR- Lyric kicks out.

Johnson McConnell: Lyric just barely got the shoulder up.

Cross motions and goes for his finish.

JJ Adams: Cross is setting up for Death Penalty.

Lyric pushes him off then hits a hurricanranna before tagging in Lucky.

JJ Adams: Tag in to Lyrix after managing to avoid the finisher.

Johnson McConnell: Lyric has good awareness for someone only a little over a year into her wrestling career.

Lucky rushes in and hits a Lou Thesz press and starts to hit a flurry of fists. Eventually Cross is able to roll out from under him and to the floor. He goes over to the table and grabs Trixie’s Dominion title belt.

Jayden Skiles: Now thing are about to get interesting.

Cross rolls into the ring with the belt and measures up Lucky, but then Trixie jerks the belt away.

JJ Adams: Trixie’s not having it.

Jayden Skiles: Stupid. Just stupid!

Johnson McConnell: Looks like that implosion you spoke of may be on the horizon.

As the two discuss it heatedly, Lyric rushes into the ring. Lucky spins around Cross and hits a stunner while Lyric hits a spinning roundhouse to the head of Trixie.

JJ Adams: Lucky Draw on Cross and Gaia Kick on Trixie.

Lyric goes back to her corner as Lucky kicks Trixie from the ring. Then he tags in Lyric. Lucky goes to the apron as Lyric comes in. Then they hit a combination springboard lariat and spinning roundhouse kick.

JJ Adams: The Collective!

ONE…..
TWO…..
THREE!

The referee calls for the bell.

Trinity Nicole: Winners of the match; The Madness!!

As Cross rolls out of the ring, Fantomas’ “Rosemary’s Baby” plays as Lyric and Lucky celebrate together.

[Donnie]

Cuando en Tennessee

A faded, yet disturbing scene from the mid 2000s pops up on the big screen. We appear to be outside the high, cyclone wire fence of a prison ground. In this scene, the first thing we can see are the sights and sounds of a furious mob assembled just outside the fence line, being forced further back by a riot squad to their chagrin. A voiceover of a raspy, evil laugh rings in over the top of the commotion, and then a familiar voice speaks.

"¿No es encantador? Solo tienes que amar a la multitud hipócrita de idiotas a quienes les gusta reunirse afuera durante una ejecución. ¡La psique humana es algo muy espléndido!"

(Isn't it lovely? You just have to love the hypocritical crowd of idiots who like to gather outside during an execution. The human psyche is a many splendored thing!)

Picket signs are abundant outside the walls of Riverbend Penitentiary. As the camera pans across, three of them stand right out.

"FRYDAY"

"DIE MILA DIE"

"WE HOPE IT HURTS!"

Voiceover: "Hijos de puta, seguro que se salieron con la suya. Me masacraron allí. ¡Cruel e inusual es tal eufemismo que lo considero un insulto!"

(Motherfuckers, they sure got their way. They massacred me there. Cruel and unusual is such an understatement that I consider it an insult!)

The crowd in the clip suddenly burst into uproarious cheers as the lights inside the building begin to flicker and blink, and it can only mean one thing. Much like a wild fever dream, the fans in the arena are appalled as they witness, just for a split second, a hooded figure on fire as she writhes violently against the restraints before we cut away to spinning newspaper headlines quickly flashing across the screen:

"MILA D'ORTEGA: "Was it an electrocution or a cremation?"

"BOTCHED EXECUTION: Former professional wrestler, 37, burnt to death"

"SYNTHETIC SPONGE RULED AS THE CULPRIT"

Finally, the sounds of the audience's horror cuts you like a knife as her autopsy photo flashes. There is absolutely nothing left of her. It's actually a relief when the scene flips and we are suddenly confronted by the smirking figure of Suicida herself. Apart from a single candle, this room is so dark that we can only just make her out. The sense of foreboding that the fans feel is rather obvious, as the masked Puerto Rican lurks toward the camera from her darkened hiding place. She seems to glow, despite the darkness.

Suicida: No nos engañemos ni por un segundo, ¿de acuerdo? Es totalmente apropiado. Porque yo mismo soy extraordinariamente cruel. ¡También soy ciertamente inusual!

(Let's not kid ourselves for a second, okay? It is totally appropriate. Because I myself, am extraordinarily cruel. I am also certainly unusual!)

Suicida gets up really close, and she cocks her head to the side. She smirks arrogantly as she throws her arms out in a shrug.

Suicida: Entonces, ¿cuál de ustedes va a ser?

(So. Which one of you is it going to be, huh?)

That evil, raspy laugh of Suicida's is enough to unnerve you, let alone the fact that she seems to glow with energy.

Suicida: He estado atrapado dentro de esta maldita cosa, durmiendo, esperando el día.

(I have been trapped inside this fucking thing, laying dormant, just waiting for the day).

Suicida points to her mask, and then runs her hands up and down the midsection of her 'vehicle'

Suicida: Es bueno estar vivo. ¿No es así, putita sucia?

(It's good to be alive. Isn't it, you dirty little whore?)

The fans BOOO as Suicida smacks herself across the face brutally.

Suicida: DIOS MÍO. Ella es mi viva imagen. ¡Pero es una pequeña vagabunda repugnante! De todas formas. Ya basta de tu estúpido amiguito.)

(My GOD. She is my spitting image, but she is one disgusting, little tramp! Anyway. Enough about your stupid little friend..)

Suicida lets out a slow, angered sigh before she proceeds to scream at the camera once more.

Suicida: No tengo prisa, pozos negros burbujeantes de humanidad inferior. Porque siempre supe una cosa. Un día dulce, vendría una perra estúpida con una curiosidad impetuosa. Sabía que ella me encontraría y que no podría resistir la tentación. ¡Porque es una idiota estúpida!

(I am in no rush, you bubbling cesspools of inferior humanity. For, I always knew one thing. One sweet day, some stupid bitch with an impetuos curiosity would come along. I knew that she would find me, and that she could not resist the allure. It is certainly a special breed of stupid!)

Suicida's black void eyes narrow behind that mask as she reverts to a growled, hushed tone. Her accent really makes the words hang heavy in the air.

Suicida: ¿Sabía desde el principio que a través de este estúpido coño a mi disposición? Literalmente podría incendiar el mundo. ¡Al igual que el mundo me quemó tan felizmente! Las alimañas de la Redención están en un mundo de mierda que es materia de sus pesadillas más graves. Eres absolutamente impotente para detenerlo. Como este idiota.

(I knew from the beginning, that with this stupid little cunt at my disposal, I could literally set the world on fire. Just like this world so happily burned me! The vermin of Redemption are in a world of shit that is the stuff of their worst nightmares. You are absolutely powerless to stop it. Like this idiot..)

A blinding flash crackles forth from Suicida's hand, completely taking the camera picture out, but not the audio. The fans BOOO as the camera falls and we hear the camera crewmember cry out in pain before the segment fades to black.

J.J Adams: D...did she just..?

Johnson McConnell: What do you think, Adams? Good riddance. That guy was a dong..

Truffle Up

A camera follows Chance Field at a distance, though he’s clueless to this, not realizing he’s airing live. He steps into the catering area, glances around, then finds who he’s looking for; the head of catering. Chance approaches her.

Chance Field: Cindy, how’d it go?

Cybil Keene: Name’s Cybil.

Chance Field: It doesn’t matter, Cindy. Just answer the question.

She rolls her eyes.

Cybil Keene: He looked interested, but he didn’t take a single bite.

Chance Field: You’re kidding me?! I gave you all that money. I spent a fortune to upgrade catering today to be top of the line. I see lobster, filet mignon, duck, kobe beef. I even shelled out money for you to buy winter black truffles at $800 a pound, and Fat Ass Jack didn’t eat?!

Cybil Keene: Not a bite. Can’t make him eat.

Chance Field: If you knew how to cook, you could. That’s the problem here. It’s not his self control, it’s you’re disgusting cooking!

Cybil Keene: I’ll have you know my restaurant here in Sacramento has won many awards. My cooking is perfectly fine.

Chance laughs.

Chance Field: And how much did that cost you? Your life savings, or a shot in the throat? You know what, don’t answer that, just get out of my sight. And Yelp’s going to hear about this.

She just stands there glaring at him. Chance waves her on.

Chance Field: Be gone. You’ve already wasted enough of my time and money.

She curses under her breath, the word “asshole” audible as she walks away.

Fifteen Minutes of Rawlings

The feed cuts back to ringside.

JJ Adams: Next up folks, we have the first ever “15 Minutes of Rawlings.”

Johnson McConnell: I wonder what he is going to do, this week to week to make us all feel uncomfortable.

Jayden Skiles: I miss peak Rawlings. That was a guy you could root for. His tactics used to be great to watch… Now it’s just boring shock and awe bullshit.

JJ Adams: Say what you will about it, it achieved what he wanted, and he is heading to the ring now.

“Champion” by Grinspoon plays over the speaker and the crowd breaks out into a boo.Stephen Rawlings steps out wearing his “Good Enough Isn’t: Perfect is!” T-shirt, and a pair of wrestling tights. He has a smug look on his face and waves at the booing crowd. He saunters down to the ring and yanks the mic out of Trinity Nicole’s hand and then climbs into the ring with it.

Stephen Rawlings: Yeah yeah yeah… Boo all you want. It’s not going to harsh my mood. I have been working hard all night to bring you the greatest 15 minutes of entertainment you all have ever seen…. And I think I have found the perfect formula to bring in the highest ratings ever. A match with me! The greatest wrestler ever!

The crowd boos louder.

Johnson McConnell: Maybe greatest cheater ever.

Jayden Skiles: Yes! That’s quite an accomplishment for him!

Stephen Rawlings looks at the commentary table.

Stephen Rawlings: Stop talking! I can fucking hear you!

Jayden and Johnson look at each other and close their mouths.

Stephen Rawlings: That’s better.

He turns back to the crowd.

Stephen Rawlings: Tonight, you all get treated to a match with two wrestling legends as I introduce you all to my opponent for this evening… CROSS DELANEY!

Cross Delaney’s entrance music plays and he walks out to the ring. The crowd boos but not as loud as they were just doing for Rawlings. Cross makes it to the ring, and the two nod….

Referee Zack Rhodes steps into the ring and Stephen Rawlings sets the mic down in the corner. The two wrestlers meet in the middle of the ring, and the ref calls for the bell.

Johnson McConnell: Now that we are allowed to speak again, let’s see what kind iof circus this is going to be.

Jayden Skiles: I think this is fantastic booking. Two seasoned veterans should make for a great highly competitive match.

JJ Adams: Cross starting the match by going for a grapple- And what’s this?

Cross goes for a grapple but then stands up straight and holds his back. He falls to the mat and Stephen shrugs and goes for the pin.

JJ Adams: And Stephen goes for the pin.

Johnson McConnell: You’ve got to be kidding me!

The ref surprised, drops down and goes for the count after Rawlings scoops the leg.

1…..

2…..

3….

JJ Adams: And Stephen Rawlings has won his first match since the return of Redemption.

Johnson McConnell: Can we really call this win?

Jayden Skiles: In the record books, hell yeah.

Stephen hops to his feet and grabs the microphone.

Stephen Rawlings: Producers… Keep the cameras rolling… I should still have about 12 minutes left, and I plan on using all of it, because I’m not giving you all just 1 match tonight…. But I plan on breaking the world record of matches won in 15 minutes….

Zack and Cross both look over at him surprised.

Stephen Rawlings: Ring the bell ref! The ref looks at Cross who shrugs and he motions for the bell to ring.

Stephen runs towards to the ropes, bounces off of them and then flips on top of Cross, and goes for the pin.

The ref drops for the count.

1…

2….

3…

The ref sighs and calls for the bell.

JJ Adams: And Stephen Rawlings wins again.

Johnson McConnell: This is a disgusting abuse of power.

Jayden: I think it’s brilliant. This is the Rawlings I was talking about.

Rawlings motions for the bell again and the ref obliges. Stephen stands up and stomps Cross once with a boot and then rolls him up for the pin… The ref who’s stayed down counts.

1….

2…

3…

The ref motions for the bell.

JJ Adams: And Rawlings wins a third time!

Johnson McConnell: Are you really going to say that every time he wins?

Jayden Skiles: Leave him alone. That’s his job.

Stephen Rawlings: AGAIN!

The ref calls for the bell. Rawlings lays on top of Cross, who just stays flat on the mat. The ref counts him down… Again…

1….

2…

3….

The ref calls for the bell.

JJ Adams: And Stephen wins again!

Johnson McConnell: Can’t someone do something to stop this?

Jayden Skiles: No! That’s what’s so genius about this… Unless it’s a title match, NO ONE can interfere with what he does!

Johnson McConnell: But this can’t be ethical.

Jayden Skiles: This is Stephen Rawlings we are talking about here. You think he cares about ethics?

The ref calls for the next match to begin.

Stephen who is still on top of Cross, rolls up his leg for the next pinfall…

The ref counts….

1....

2….

3….

The ref calls for the bell.

JJ Adams: And Stephen Rawlings gets the win!

Johnson McConnell: This guy! I can’t even!

The ref calls for the bell to begin the next match and this time Stephen pins Cross with just one finger.

1….

2….

3….

The ref calls for the bell.

JJ Adams: And Stephen wins five straight!

Johnson McConnell: It looks like even the ref is getting tired of this.

Jayden Skiles: Cross looks comfy though. He might be taking a nap, a man of his age.

The next match begins. Stephen does the Captain Morgan pose for his next pinfall attempt and the ref sighs, then counts.

1…

2…

3…

The ref reluctantly calls for the bell and the crowd’s boos have grown to all time high.

JJ Adams: And Stephen Rawlings picks up another one folks.

Johnson McConnell: The ref is really starting to look like he is over this.

The ref stands up.

Zack Rhodes: No more, Rawlings. This is ridiculous.

Stephen Rawlings: What was that? This is MY fifteen minutes and you were assigned to me, so you do what I fucking tell you to!

Zack Rhodes: No, I’m done. This is a waste of time.

Stephen Rawlings: But six wins isn’t the record. I need to win the record.

Zack Rhodes: No. And if you push me further about this… I will start another match, and then disqualify you from it. This circus is over, Stephen! Get out of here.

Stephen Rawlings: No! This is my time… And if you won’t ref for me… I guess I’ll have to have Cross do it.

Cross stands up and pulls his shirt off revealing a referee shirt. He then calls for the bell and it rings.

JJ Adams: And the bell rings for another match.

Johnson McConnell: Wait, what? What is happening?

Jayden Skiles: I think Zack Rhodes just became an unwilling participant in Rawlings’s little game.

Stephen grabs Zack and flings him into the ropes. Zack catches himself, but then Rawlings grabs him and flings him towards Cross, who catches him with a clothesline. Rawlings then grabs ahold of Zack and lifts him up in a suplex hold and slams him to the ring. Without letting go, he performs another suplex, and then a third…. And a fourth.

Johnson McConnell: Come on now. Zack is not trained for this. Someone needs to come out here and stop this. He could get seriously hurt.

Stephen Rawlings performs one last suplex, this time turning it into a pin, and Cross goes down to count...

1.
2.
3.

Cross class for the bell.

JJ Adams: And Stephen is victorious yet again.

Johnson McConnell: Wow, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a faster count and I’ve been doing this for a long time.

Jayden Skiles: Give him a break. It’s his first time as a referee.

Stephen Rawlings jumps up in victory. Cross grabs his hand and raises it into the air. The crowd shows their appreciation with a booming roarious boo. Stephen kicks the ref a couple more times, and then the two wrestlers make their way to the back, joking and laughing the whole way. The crowd booing them as they leave.

Johnson McConnell: To say this was a misuse of Redemption air time is an understatement.

Jayden Skiles: Stephen is a smart man. He knew exactly what he was doing.

Johnson McConnell: Doesn’t make it right.

Johnson turns to JJ.

Johnson McConnell: And what do you have to say for yourself?

JJ Adams: Coming up next is the main event… Stay tuned.

Johnson McConnell: I hate you sometimes.

The camera fades.

Main Event
Tag Team Championship
Rikers Demolition Squad (c)
vs
Henhouse Slaughter

Adam Lowe: It’s time for our main event. This match tonight is one to be hyped over. It features Rikers Demolition Squad defending their tag titles against Henhouse Slaughter. This match was made on Twitter, after Henhouse made a case for being eliminated from the tag team battle Royal a few weeks ago. This led to Rikers offering them a title match tonight.

Highlights of the match show as Adam continues his commentary of it.

Adam Lowe: This was a fun match, with a lot of back and forth between the two teams. The fans seemed torn on who to root for so they just pooped for both teams. Toward the end of the match the fans were treated to a few near falls and false finishes that built the tension. Now let’s head to the ring at eighteen minute mark of this great match to show you how it all finished.

*****

Zeus hits a big boot on Fox. Then he lifts up the smaller competitor, drops him throat first across the top rope and hits a lariat to the back of the neck as he ricochets back. Then he tosses Rupert back to his corner and tags in Jupiter.

JJ Adams: Snake eyes and lariat combo and Zeus makes the tag.

Johnson McConnell: They’re doing a good job here of trying to isolate Rupert late in the match.

Jupiter comes into the ring and Rikers hit a double suplex. Jupiter covers.

JJ Adams: This could be it.

…1
…2
..Penbrook breaks up the pin.

Johnson McConnell: Penbrook saved his partner.

Jayden Skiles: He needs to get the tag in if they want to win those titles. He’s taking a beating in there.

Jupiter gets up, but when he does Penbrook hits him with a hip toss. Zeus comes rushing in, but with an impressive show of strength he catches him with a powerslam.

JJ Adams: Penbrook is dragging Fox to his corner.

Jayden Skiles: He’s itching to get in. Title matches don’t come all the time. Gotta do what you gotta do.

Penbrook tags himself in. He comes in hot as Jupiter is getting up. Penbrook spikes him with a DDT then follows it up with a seated senton.

JJ Adams: The big man comes in on a tear.

Johnson McConnell: He’s been on that apron chomping at the bit. Now he’s being unleashed.

Zeus has gotten back up at this point and grabs Eddie from behind and tosses him with a belly to back overhead suplex.

JJ Adams: Hawkins is threatening to DQ Zeus here.

Johnson McConnell: Of course he is. He’s not the legal man. If this wasn’t a title match he likely would have DQd him for that.

Jayden Skiles: Yeah, we’ll, I thought it was a smart move. They’ve got nothing to lose there.

Referee Dave Hawkins gets in Zeus’ face and orders him back to his corner. Zeus starts to argue with him, but Hawkins gets animated. Finally Zeus backs up to his corner.

JJ Adams: Order’s been restored.

Johnson McConnell: And listen to these fans. They’re living this match.

Behind this action, Jupiter and Penbrook are back up and trading punches back and forth. The crowd cheers on both. Then both run the ropes and rebound back; hitting each other with a double clothesline as both fall to the mat.

JJ Adams: The two men take each other out.

Johnson McConnell: It’s like two Mack trucks colliding in there.

Jayden Skiles: Either way, the referee is beginning his 10 count.

The referee gets to a 6 count when the crowd starts to rumble. Then Xander Maxwell and Xavier Cross, 2X, come over the guardrail through the crowd. Rupert notices and just as they do, he springboards from the middle rope and hits a moonsault, wiping out both men and himself in the process as they both crash through the rail and into the crowd.

JJ Adams: Rupert Fox just took out 2X before they could cost them the match.

Johnson McConnell: Yeah, but at what cost? Because while he did out a stop to 2X, he just took himself out and just Penbrook on his own.

Jayden Skiles: We’re about to find out the trickle effects because Zeus and Penbrook are getting up.

Back in the ring, Hawkins turns his attention back to the match. Both men are starting to get to their feet. Penbrook hits a forearm on Jupiter then whips him into the ropes.

JJ Adams: Blind tag. I don’t even thing Penbrook noticed.

When he comes back Penbrook gets him up on his shoulders, but then he’s caught by a spear from Jupiter.

JJ Adams: Penbrook had him ready for the Steamroller.

Johnson McConnell: He did, but then Jupiter speared him into next week.

Jupiter pops up with a roar. Then he hits a Jackhammer on Penbrook.

JJ Adams; Stainless Steel Ride.

Jupiter covers and Rupert is just recovering outside and trying to get in the ring as Hawkins counts.

…1
…2
…3!

Just as the referee slaps three, Fox breaks the pin, just milliseconds late. But before the celebration can begin, Boomer Johnson and Ryan Samuels come rushing down the ramp and climb in the ring. As they do Jupiter readies for them. Meanwhile Xander Maxwell slides into the ring from behind with a chair and slams the steel across the back of Fox. Jupiter glances at it, and it’s all Boomer needs to slam a cowbell on the end of a rope into the face of Jupiter.

The fans boo and start to toss trash into the ring as Cattle Drive Crew and 2X beat down Rikers and Henhouse as the show goes off the air.

[Donnie]

Credits:
Opening - Donnie w/ archived from Paul
So Hungry - Moo
Angels and Airheads - Sara and Garrett
Change of Attitude - April
Arley Kirk & Azurine Vebbins vs Emily Simms & Eric Winters - Sara
The Recruiter - Turner
Punk 101 - Mikey and Sunshine
To Win or Not To Win - Sunshine and Donnie
Ares Bones and Mercy Payne vs Hungry Jack and Rosie Sinn - Sara
Best Friends Meet Again - Drew and Paul
Proclamation - Tommy
Setting Fires - Mikey
Draco Dragotta & Kit Kobold vs. Slade & Jason Sandman - Paul
Whose Fate is That? - Paul and Casey
Hubris - Tony
Old School Meet New - Drew and Donnie
Cattle Drive Crew vs Pandora Ravencraft & Roxy Spaulding - Donnie
Unconditional Love - Drew
Decent - Mikey and Sunshine
Lessons Learned - Sunshine
Anthony Cross & Trixie Decker vs The Madness - Mikey
Cuando en Tennessee - Sara
Truffle Up - Donnie
Fifteen Minutes of Rawlings - Donnie
Rikers Demolition Squad (c) vs Henhouse Slaughter - Donnie