Breakthrough (Edition #37) Results!

Dustin Holt Vs. Kelsey Spencer

As we return from the quick commercial break, the lights drop down as a video package begins to play on the giant screen. A solid spotlight appears on the stage as a silhouette of a woman appears in the spotlight. She stands off to the side and claps her hands. Red lights fill the arena as "Make Things Right" by The Lacs begins to blare through the sound system. A disgruntled looking man wearing a wife beater and dirty jeans walks out onto the stage as the crowd instantly breaks into a loud roar. A slight smirk comes across his face as he kisses his gorgeous wife on the lips. They then proceed to walk down the ramp. He ignores what the fans are saying as his wife proceeds to shout back at them.

Jerry Heisenberg: The following Double Debut Match is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, he hails from Germantown, Maryland and weighed in tonight 238lbs… “THE PSYCHO” DUSTIN HOLT!!!

Axel Reid: This will be the first of two Debut matches tonight, and it’s unfortunate that we have to start the night with this man.

Ruby Parvati: I enjoy watching acts of violence, as you know… but even I have to question why Sky Sangue would hire this guy. He’s gained a reputation for being insane, and I have no doubt in my mind he’ll show us why in this match.

Axel Reid: Perhaps it has to do with the fact that he is a successful wrestler, Ruby, even if he does enjoy human suffering. Keep in mind, we’ve seen the likes of Scarlet Flint, Cera and Seth Iser demonstrate how vile they can be here. Not to mention, his father owns several wrestling promotions across the states, and I think having that connection will provide more talent for VoW in the future with Dustin in the ranks.

Ruby Parvati: Sure, let’s keep sending talent towards him and watch him decimate them. That’s a good business strategy!

Dustin slides into the ring, crawls over to the nearest corner and waits in a seated position for his opponent. He does not have to wait long as “First World Anarchists” by the Dollyrots plays. Kelsey bursts out from behind the curtain, brimming with energy. It doesn't take her long to remember she's not supposed to be appealing to the fans any more, and she attempts to put on a facade that she really doesn't care what they say. She makes her way down the ramp, visibly tempted to reach out and high five outstretched children's hands -- however, she manages to refrain from doing so as she continues on her way.

Jerry Heisenberg: And his opponent, she hails from The Gold Coast and weighed in tonight at 124lbs… KELSEY SPENCER!!!

Axel Reid: And here comes one-half of our newest Tag Team in VoW, The Bellis Street Socialites. It’s been well documented that Kelsey has had a troubled life, but she has put her focus into professional wrestling and has become quite the sensation.

Ruby Parvati: Well she’s better off not trusting anyone here… except for Rebecca Saint of course.

As Kelsey reaches the ring and slides underneath the ropes, Dustin suddenly bounds forward from his settled position and rushes her, hammering away with kicks to her spine! The crowd boo as the referee carelessly signals for the bell, allowing Dustin to continue his barrage undeterred!

DING DING DING!!!

Axel Reid: Dustin just jumped Kelsey before the bell, and he has an immediate advantage as this match gets underway!

Ruby Parvati: Now this is called making a statement!

With Kelsey struggling to mount any defence, Dustin hoists her up and throws her to the canvas with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex! His tongue creeps out between smirking lips as he savours the vulnerable state of Kelsey… only to back away and roll outside the ring.

Ruby Parvati: What the hell is he doing?

Dustin flips up the apron cover and intensely searches underneath the ring, eventually pulling out a trash can and sliding it into the ring. Jennifer does not seem to care about his actions, despite the fact he could risk a disqualification in his first match.

Axel Reid: Dustin has got himself a trash can!

Ruby Parvati: I told you he was a lunatic!

Ignoring the referee’s instructions to discard the trash can, Dustin chuckles as he raises it to his chest and walks towards Kelsey. The high-flying aficionado has gotten back to her feet, and Dustin is primed to cave her head in with the metal object… that is until Kelsey rushes towards him and gives him a low dropkick to the knee, causing Dustin to fall forward and hit his head off the trash can!

Axel Reid: Kelsey took Dustin’s legs out from under him before he could use that trash can, and Dustin felt the metal instead! That won’t result in a disqualification though, because Dustin ended up hitting himself!

Dustin feels his face as he resides on one knee, and he is so focused on treating his face that he is unable to block a running dropkick to the side of his head from Kelsey! Once Dustin is taken down, the referee hastily clears the trash can from the ring, preventing further use from either competitor!

Ruby Parvati: Why would that have been under the ring anyway?!

Axel Reid: Considering all the garbage our fans in Sheffield were throwing at Darkest Hour, I believe we’ve got extra cans under the ring just in case it happens again. Dustin just happened to find one and use it for another purpose!

Continuing to focus on Dustin, Kelsey uses the ropes to spring up into the air and land on Dustin with an elbow drop to the midsection! The Psycho crawls away from the ropes as he feels his stomach, Jennifer telling him to get up all the while. Kelsey, refusing to slow down, pursues Dustin and delivers a knee to his ribs, at which point she sets him up for a DDT and nails it!

Axel Reid: DDT from Kelsey! I think Dustin is still stunned after his head hit that trash can, and that DDT did not help matters!

Ruby Parvati: I wonder what he would have done to Kelsey if she HADN’T dropkicked his knee…?

Axel Reid: Something disturbing, I imagine.

Meanwhile, Kelsey has mounted the turnbuckle. Perched on the top rope, she waits for Dustin to stand up, which he does so on groggy legs. Taking a risk, Kelsey flies through the air and connects with a Crossbody! However, Dustin rolls through and grabs her, keeping her at his chest as he manages to stand back up and delivers a twisting Powerslam!

Axel Reid: Powerslam from Dustin! Perhaps he wasn’t as affected as I first thought.

Ruby Parvati: You can’t rattle his brain, Axel. He’s too psychotic to be affected by pain!

Grimacing momentarily, Dustin releases a rabid sound from his mouth, licking his lips like a maniac as he studies Kelsey carefully. His fingers twitch as he squats behind her, watching her steadily get back to her feet. Once she does so, he strikes her in the stomach with a side thrust kick, which allows him to whip her into the corner with ease. Kelsey seems winded as she grasps her stomach, taking in heavy breathes as Dustin taunts the audience with a wild look in his eyes.

Ruby Parvati: He might be wasting too much time here…

Without any indication of his next move, Dustin frantically spins around and sprints towards the corner. Suddenly, Kelsey jumps up and hits her feet into his face, forcing him to stumble backward from the impact!

Axel Reid: You were right! Kelsey managed to block that incoming attack!

Knowing she can’t lose this opportunity, Kelsey takes in one more breathe before she runs forward and jumps up, taking Dustin down with a spinning Hurracanrana! Dustin lands perfectly on his head afterward, yet Kelsey is already formulating her next move, not going for a pinfall as she moves to the corner again and scales the ropes!

Axel Reid: That was a modified Hurracanrana from Kelsey, and she’s going up top yet again!

Ruby Parvati: I sense another risky move coming here!

Once Kelsey positions herself on the top rope, she leaps toward Dustin with a Frog Splash! The aerial attack connects, and Kelsey hooks Dustin’s leg for a cover!

Axel Reid: Frog Splash from Kelsey, and she goes for the pin!

The referee counts…


ONE!






TWO!






THREE!!!


DING DING DING!!!


Axel Reid: And Kelsey wins with the first pinfall of the match after that amazing Frog Splash!

Ruby Parvati: Dustin shouldn’t have brought that trash can in! That was what caused his downfall!

Kelsey raises her arms jubilantly, accepting the referee’s hand as she celebrates with a smile. She begins to wave to the fans until she stops herself, instead dropping her arm and keeping it firmly at her side. Meanwhile Jennifer shakes her head, disappointed with the loss her husband received and how Kelsey managed to beat him.

Jerry Heisenberg: Here is your winner… KELSEY SPENCER!!!

Valerie Beasley Vs. Rebecca Saint

"One Shot" blares over the speakers as Valerie Beasley comes walking out onto the stage. She is wearing a dark, leather vest over a dark blue sports bra and gray MMA shorts. Her hands are covered with black fingerless gloves while wearing Nike high top tennis shoes on her feet. The crowd is going hog wild for her as she raises one arm into the sky. After more cheers begin to bellow through the audience, Valerie begins to walk down the ramp while punching her left hand into her right hand.

Jerry Heisenberg: The following Double Debut Match is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, she hails from Lincoln, Nebraska and weighed in tonight at 139lbs… VALERIE BEASLEY!!!

Axel Reid: This will be our second Double Debut contest of the night, and what a showcase this will be. Valerie Beasley is a highly-proficient MMA grappler. She has trained extensively in Tae-Kwan-Do and Jiu-Jitsu, earning black and brown belts respectively and other awards along the way. If I were Rebecca Saint, I would try and keep away from her left hand at all costs. That is the difference maker.

Ruby Parvati: If she’s so good with her left hand, I wonder how good she is with her right…

Axel Reid: She’s naturally left-handed, Ruby. She was born a south paw and has worked out how to do as much damage as possible with it.

Ruby Parvati: … Why are you no fun? I was clearly mentioning how she could mas…

Axel Reid: Don't even go there.

Valerie cracks her neck before hopping up onto the ring apron. She begins to scan the arena before leaping into the ring and standing in the center of it. She lifts her hand into the air one more time as the crowd continues to cheer. Valerie proceeds to remove her ring jacket while turning towards the stage for her opponent.

Ruby Parvati: By the looks of her, I bet she’s manhandled many men in her time.

Axel Reid: Well she has knocked out and submitted a good number of women before, so maybe… wait… what are you implying?

As Ruby laughs at Axel’s confusion, "Natural Born Sinner" by In This Moment plays throughout the arena. Rebecca Saint then comes out at the top of the ramp and gives the audience a look of disgust. With her glamorous ring attire and high standards, Rebecca lifts her nose to the public and walks down the ramp.

Jerry Heisenberg: And her opponent, she hails from Upper Class Society and weighed in tonight at 165lbs… REBECCA SAINT!!!

Axel Reid: Here comes the other half of The Bellis Street Socialites. Kelsey Spencer won her match tonight in convincing fashion, despite some shenanigans from her opponent Dustin Holt, so we will see if Rebecca can make it a full sweep for this team on their debuts.

Ruby Parvati: I already love her style and her grace! It’s a shame Kelsey acts so hesitant. She should be more like Rebecca!

Axel Reid: Well Rebecca, as she will tell you personally, doesn’t care about anyone except those she deems important and worth her time. Clearly she thinks these fans aren’t worth her time by how she looks at them, but Kelsey Spencer and Thaddeus certainly are, who I’m sure are watching this match backstage and backing Rebecca to victory.

Ruby Parvati: I hope she likes my dress this evening. I think we’d get on rather well over a glass of champagne!

Rebecca gets up onto the apron in front of the ring ropes and says "I'm better than you" towards Valerie. The MMA grappler remains stoic, not taking Rebecca’s words to heart whatsoever. Saint enters the ring and raises her nose to Valerie, looking down on her opponent with an air of superiority.

Axel Reid: Rebecca is certainly full of herself, but if she’s not careful, she could be on the receiving end of a haymaker that takes her out of this match.

Ruby Parvati: It’s good to be proud of who you are, Axel. Rebecca is showing Valerie she’s not on her level, and she never will be. After all, we’ve heard she works at a Grocery Store when she’s not competing.

Axel Reid: What’s wrong with that? We all have to start somewhere, and Valerie has decided to stick to her working roots.

Ruby Parvati: And this is why she will never be like Rebecca Saint.

Once Rebecca and Valerie get into fighting stances, the referee signals for the bell.

DING DING DING!!!

Valerie keeps her hands up, stepping towards Rebecca with caution. In contrast, Rebecca loosens herself up, as if showing that Valerie doesn’t intimidate her. Soon enough, the two women advance, with Rebecca sliding to the canvas and going for Valerie’s left leg. The Bitch Destroyer smartly turns away from Rebecca’s grasp and kicks out with her right leg, nearly catching Rebecca across the face.

Axel Reid: We seem to be in the midst of a feeling-out process here, but it seems that Rebecca has researched Valerie somewhat. If she can take apart that left leg of Valerie, then Valerie’s left hand strikes will be less effective with a lack of balance.

The two women circle momentarily until they both lock-up. Despite her technical ability, this seems to be a mistake for Rebecca to make, as Valerie quickly switches behind Rebecca and dumps her to the canvas with an elevated Back Side Slam. Using her grappling skills, Valerie hastily switches to Rebecca’s head, putting in a front facelock. However, Rebecca is able to twist out of the facelock, countering the grip and applying a wrist lock to her opponent. Once they get back to a vertical base, Valerie clubs Rebecca with her free arm, forcing Saint to release her. Unfortunately, Rebecca immediately recovers and trips Valerie, going for an Ankle Lock that Valerie kicks away from!

Axel Reid: Rebecca is determined to go for that leg, but Valerie has become wise to her scheme.

Rebecca pursues the standing Valerie, but her opponent catches her with a side kick, setting up a Gutwrench Suplex! After taking the move, Rebecca is pulled up by Valerie who, instead of continuing a ground based attack, swings a left and connects to applause!

Axel Reid: And there’s the left hand from Valerie! Rebecca has gone to the ropes!

Ruby Parvati: Come on, Rebecca, you can take her!

As Rebecca leans against the ropes, stunned by the fast left hand, Valerie bounds forward with a front kick! Suddenly, Saint grabs the leg and twists Valerie down with a Dragon Screw, torquing her knee and causing considerable damage to the tendons! Valerie grabs at her damaged knee, but Rebecca is not done, keeping a hold of her foot as she slides backwards under the bottom rope and occupies the ringside area.

Axel Reid: That Dragon Screw has put Valerie down, but I have no idea what Rebecca is planning now.

Ignoring the referee’s questions about what she’s doing, Rebecca twists Valerie’s ankle before she balances it on the bottom rope. Valerie tries to break away from Saint’s grip, but Rebecca keeps a tight hold, doing so as she strangely pulls the bottom and middle ropes together and twists them around Valerie’s leg.

Ruby Parvati: Now this looks interesting…

Axel Reid: Rebecca has tied Valerie’s ankle between those ropes, and she’s telling the referee not to get involved!

After scolding the referee, Rebecca hops onto the apron and then begins to scale the corner. Meanwhile Valerie struggles to break free, attempting to sit up and pull her leg back. The crowd murmur as Rebecca balances herself on the top rope, looking down at Valerie with a smirk before she jumps off and lands all her weight on Valerie’s leg with a KNEE DROP!

Ruby Parvati: That was beautiful!

Axel Reid: What?! That was outrageous! Rebecca might have broken Valerie’s leg!

Screaming in pain, Valerie’s eyes water as she tries to reach out and tend to her seemingly-crippled leg. Being a complete bitch, Rebecca laughs and taunts Valerie’s misery, doing so before she stomps against the rope-bound leg some more. Eventually Rebecca unties Valerie, allowing the MMA grappler to immediately roll away and tuck her leg in with great anguish.

Axel Reid: I don’t like the looks of this. There is definitely an injury there… but if there isn’t, then there’s no doubt she’s in considerable pain.

The referee warns Rebecca that if she does that again she’ll be disqualified, but Rebecca simply blows him off, acting as if he is insignificant. Putting her game face back on, Saint then grabs the crippled leg of Valerie and drops another knee onto the patella, making sure it swells and restricts Valerie’s movements. After standing up, Rebecca wrenches the leg toward her with a snap and turns over it, setting up her patented SAINTS ROW Figure Four Leg Lock!

Ruby Parvati: And now she has the Figure Four applied! What a cunning tactic from Rebecca!

Axel Reid: Valerie is screaming in pure agony here! That leg has got to be killing her!

After a few moments, Rebecca sits on her hands and arches her body back to add more pressure to the injured leg. Valerie shakes her head frantically, attempting to hold on and find an escape. But with nowhere to go, and with the protection of her leg in mind, Valerie has no choice but to tap out! Valerie taps to the shock of the audience, but most of them understand the excruciating predicament she was in and how risky holding on would have been. A few seconds later Rebecca releases the hold, residing on her knees and raising her arms in victory as the referee ends the match!

DING DING DING!!!

Jerry Heisenberg: Here is your winner… REBECCA SAINT!!!

Ruby Parvati: Valerie tapped out! Look at what Rebecca just did!

Axel Reid: With the help of those ring ropes and a top rope knee drop, Ruby. That was how she set Valerie up for the Figure Four. I still think that leg is broken in some way, or maybe her knee was twisted from the impact. Either way, Rebecca just showed us what she’ll do to win, and look at her. She doesn’t care about Valerie’s health at all!

Rebecca pays no attention to the grounded, upset Valerie as she scales the corner, showcasing her superiority to the audience with a proud smile. She then waves them off and abandons the ring, keeping her hand held out to the fans to say that she’s not going to bother with them.

Ruby Parvati: So The Bellis Street Socialites win both their matches tonight in rather quick fashion. What a first night for them!

Axel Reid: Both under different circumstances, but both were solid victories. If this is how they both do in singles competition, then I’m sure they’ll be quite the deadly duo in the Tag Team Division.

Ruby Parvati: Teams of VoW… beware of The Bellis Street Socialites!

Riding Into Chaos

We do just that, quickly cutting back to ringside after that disturbing interaction. The arena darkens while fog wafts up from beneath the stage, lights going off with a strobe effect meant to resemble lightning as the sound of thunder rumbles through the speakers. The sounds go silent after a few moments before the lights come up with a blue tint, a spotlight shining down on two kneeling figures who rises from within the fog at the top of the ramp moments before "The Watcher" by Xandria starts. They are quickly joined by seven more, five of them cloaked and hooded whilst the other two are, more or less, normal looking.

"Hate! Greed! The world turns to ashes!
War! Creed! No sign from Heaven!
Burn! Bleed! All just for nothing!"

Ruby Parvati: Now what’s this, then? This isn’t on my format...

Axel Reid: I’m afraid to ask.

One of the figures in front throws back her hood, thus revealing a familiar skull mask beneath, under which is the scowling visage of Emma Carlisle. She lifts her cane into the air as the opening chorus gives way to a more slightly more subdued, foreboding tune before she walks purposefully down to the ring. Joanna Thade, the Warchild, likewise rises in tandem with her partner with her warhammer propped up on her shoulder as follows her to the ring. Behind them, Opeare Shields, Doll and The Chosen match their pace with the latter forming a sort of barrier between the Chaossworn and the fans. Both Emma and Joanna ignore the reaching hands and the reactions negative or otherwise hurled in their direction, stopping and staring into the ring as they arrive at the apron.

"See the clouds in the sky still burning
Watch me counting the days in the rain

White eiderdown falls to the ground
Cover all that has been with death."

Ruby Parvati: It looks like the movement is growing. Just how many people do these two have in their clique?

Axel Reid: I really don’t want to know. When Joanna showed up trying to make nice months ago, I hoped this place would be spared her crazy girlfriend or whatever Emma is...

Ruby Parvati: Wishes and fishes, Axel.

Axel Reid: Can’t blame a man for hoping.

Emma pulls herself up onto the apron and enters the ring, casting aside her cloak as she walks to the center. Peeling off the mask, she glares into the camera before tilting her head back and shrieking loudly. More of the thunder and strobe lighting erupts at this, briefly, before she lowers her head again. Joanna moves to take a knee before her, the maul portion of Hephty pressed to the mat while Emma places a black-nailed hand on her partner's shoulder, the Warchild affecting a delightedly malicious smile. "The Watcher" fades out slowly and Emma, cane still in hand, sits cross-legged in the middle of the ring. A now-standing Joanna paces back and forth in front of her like a caged hunter, staring out at the booing masses in the stands.

The Chosen likewise enter the ring, all five standing behind the Nihilist and the Warchild while Doll fetches a microphone and passes it to Joanna, who almost snatches it from the red-haired, bespectacled, latex-clad woman. One of the hooded Chosen steps up behind the seated Emma and from within its robes takes a large, leather-bound book which is pressed into the Nihilist’s hands.

Axel Reid: Unless I miss my guess, that’s The Book of the End.

Ruby Parvati: And what the hell is in it, do you think?

Axel Reid: Considering that Emma’s been shown to write inside it with blood? I don’t want to know.

Placing the tome in her lap with reverence, Emma maintains her contemplative posture as Joanna begins to address the crowd.

Joanna Thade: D’awww, you aren’t happy to see me anymore? What a surprise. The nice fantasy is ruined so you would rather boo than listen. Well, too bad my dear sheep. You see, I played you. And I did it so well you cheered for me. You hoped for me. You bought into my reformation like the domesticated beasts you are and now that the wolves are here? You’re scared.

The power and range of the boos increase, which only spurs Joanna onward her words slowly begin to fly from her mouth as she sporadically moves about the ring..

Joanna Thade: I can’t blame you really. It’s not your fault. You’ve been raised to think that those that do whatever it takes are cutthroat, vindictive, heartless and cold. You don’t consider how their passion and dedication can change things for the better. They want change and that’s uncomfortable for those stuck in established order. Well, I hope you can adapt because your comfy order is having its balls ripped off and chowed down on by Chaos from here on in...

Now let’s take my opponent for example, Phallic Jones. Wait, can I say that on TV? Eh, anyway, PJ has this habit of just not mentally being in the fight, so tonight I’ll do him a favor and check myself into a happy place and we’ll see who comes out ahead. I’m sure you all are expecting me to rant or rave about how I’ll destroy him, but that would mean I care about PJ and I don’t. WE don’t.

From her seated position, Emma makes the slightest of nods just as Joanna turns her way with a crooked grin.

Joanna Thade: Chaos has come to VoW and that means that you need to throw out whatever script you think is being read here. No more will the machine dictate what happens, no more will you be fed the drivel that will keep you a slave to society. I freed a crowd of people earlier this week, people just like you, that wake up every morning tie their shoes and drag themselves to the damn petting zoo for eight to nine hours before heading home and wishing their lives were better. Well, get out your pens and paper boys and girls: the crazy lady is giving life advice.

You can either get behind us as we wage this war or you can get out of the way. Standing before us will only lead you to be crushed beneath our feet. Change is upon you whether you want it or night and the game will never be the same. The Chaossworn have emerged from the shadows, Death and War reunite, and the year comes to a close. It’s time to choose: to be the sheep of society or the wolves of Chaos.

The packed house is booing up a storm but Joanna is soaking up the negative reaction with a wild smile. A touch to her leg, for the moment, calms her from the manic energy coursing through her veins. It seems that a touch from the Nihilist was all she required, for now, and she twirls the mic in her hand before offering it to Emma, who lifts a mesh-sheathed hand to clasp it. Her shoulders shake slightly in silent laughter.

Ruby Parvati: You know, I could get to like these two, Axel. There’s something to be said for people who march to their own tune without giving a damn what others think.

Axel Reid: No matter who they trample in the process, right?

Ruby Parvati: Hey, their reputation precedes them. If you get stepped on by this crew, you either weren’t paying attention or had too high an opinion of yourself in the first place.

A few notes of the laughter are heard when Emma turns the microphone inward, but her voice betrays no humor whatsoever. Cold, clear and edged, she addresses the arena from her seated position.

Emma Carlisle: It was a test. A test of your blind belief and idealistic fantasies, nothing more and nothing less. And my dear Warchild...she played her part with aplomb.

Lifting her head for the first time, Emma smirks at her partner who despite having started pacing again, turns and grins right back. The expression evaporates from the Nihilist’s features as she continues speaking.

Emma Carlisle: You are all every bit the fickle, leaning-with-the-wind drones you've so often been called out as. Did you think the destruction of our previous battleground, GPW for the laymen, from within would stop us? Did you buy into the manufactured strife between War and I over social media the last few months?

Of course you did. Because as people die for their spiritual and political leaders across the world every day, you still cling to hope...that one, shining sliver of belief that you'll wake up one morning and everything will magically be okay.

Axel Reid: Well isn’t she just a ray of sparkling sunshine...

Ruby Parvati: Truth hurts, Axel.

Adjusting her legs, Emma fluidly rises to her feet without the use of her hands. The Book of the End is returned to the hands of the central member of the Chosen before the scowling Nihilist walks toward the ropes and the camera.

Emma Carlisle: Time to open your eyes. Awaken up to the harsh truth that it was never a nightmare, but simply reality following you into fitful slumber. Chaos is the new order. And hope for brighter tomorrows is naught but an atheist prayer. A waste of time, breath and energy. There is no future except for that which we lot shall forge.

The woman at times referred to as Death Incarnate makes a sweeping gesture at the Chosen, Opeare, Doll and, of course, Joanna. The Warchild points her warhammer at the crowd as if to punctuate her partner’s words.

Emma Carlisle: But most of you will ignore this message for being so set in your ways the same as those in that locker room will. You will continue to laud your heroes even as we crush them beneath our heels. And you shall do so while bathing in a light tainted by the blood we spill, praying for deliverance only existing by the wrath we wield. This can only end one way, children: you rise and fall into step with the Chaos when it calls to you...or become ground to nothing beneath this living machine of upheaval on its way to victory. VoW, one way or another, will belong to us. Mark that well. Your history...our future.

She takes a few steps back from the camera, pointing the business end of the cane toward it.

Emma Carlisle: Choose.

“The Watcher” hits again as Emma nods in the direction of the ringside area, prompting the whole of the group to exit the ring, save for herself and Joanna. The group takes up a position in the Warchild’s corner as she remains between the ropes, awaiting the start of her match. Emma, perched now on the turnbuckles in Joanna’s corner, sets her hands to the Warchild’s shoulders while whispering into the woman’s ear. The smile on Joanna’s face says it all.

Ruby Parvati: That sounds like an easy choice from where I’m sitting. Granted, I’m still waiting to see Emma step into the ring and prove the stories about herself true, but I’m interested.

Axel Reid: Because we need more psychopaths around here. What I want to see is if this return to form will result in a turnaround for Joanna Thade tonight against Patrick Jones.

Ruby Parvati: I’m betting it will. Watch and see.

Emma slips out of the ring and joins the rest of her entourage at ringside as Joanna remains within, awaiting her opponent.

Playing With Toys

The camera follows Joanna backstage with Hephty dragging behind her after her defeat to Patrick Jones. Fleming and struggling to keep her free hand still, Joanna pounds the side of her head a few times muttering to herself. It is only once she passes a side corridor that she stops and a twisted smile appears on her face.

Joanna: Oh Slater, I see you. Come out and say hi to your favorite reformy. Come on, I won’t bite... yet.

Joanna’s voice takes on a singsong quality as she ducks into the corridor and begins to skip towards a familiar figure sitting on a chair, but the lack of lighting makes it hard to tell. Eventually, in greater lighting, we see it is indeed Matt Slater, his head bowed in deep thought. Joanna reaches the Silver Knight and giggles, swinging Hephty from her shoulder to the floor with a loud thump. Slater looks up toward her, forming a depressed and irritated frown.

Matt Slater: What do you want…?

Joanna: Hmm sad are we? Maybe I can liven’ up the pity party. Personally I like wackamole but I have a feeling hide-the-snake would be more fitting to lift your spirits.

Slater turns away from her in disgust. Realizing he isn’t going to cooperate, Joanna presses her fingers to his neck, dragging her nails across the skin enough to leave tinted marks. Joanna then licks her fingers playfully.

Joanna: Mhmm. Shame and humiliation. Must have hurt thinking you were making a difference. Sadly Matt I warned you I had a dark past, just didn’t tell you I found a way to enjoy it. Though if it weren’t for Emma and your….wife, girl, thing... I could show you just how much fun the dark side of life is.

Acting in complete disregard to Slater’s body language, Joanna lowers herself onto Slater’s lap, effectively forcing him to look at her. He looks angry, yet he doesn't seem to have the motive to push her off. She moves his face to look at hers, getting within a distance where their lips almost touch. But Joanna merely bits her lower lip, not doing anything else.

Joanna: I won’t tell. Promise. But Slater I’ll tell you a secret. The look on your face when you found out, mhmm I nearly did something very lady like just from that. Wonder if your tears or blood taste as sweet as that expression. Now your turn, a secret Slater, maybe that you’re tired of giving a damn? That you know in your heart you can’t fight the good fight anymore? Hmm come on, it's just you and me.

Joanna’s lips are within a breath of Slater’s skin as she moves just enough that her breath dances over the skin of his lips, cheek, and ear, sending a shiver down his spine. Even her hips move, causing further discomfort for him. After a few moments, they finally lock eyes, Joanna waiting with bated breath as she teased and taunted the Visionary, going so far as to play with the hair coming from his spiked fringe.

Matt Slater: How about… you get off me… and go and celebrate somewhere else… with someone else.

Joanna: Celebrate? But Matt I’ve got nothing to celebrate. Haven’t you heard I’m a loser? Oh wait...no I did exactly what I wanted, so I guess….you’re the loser? I mean I don’t see it but that’s because I know you’re just suffering with your societal shackles. Maybe you just need someone to… break them, bend them. Release you from them?

Joanna bends backwards onto her hands before following through with a handstand and pushing off back onto her feet. Wrapping one leg around Hephty Joanna does a little twirl while looking at Slater exactly like a tiger looks at it’s prey. Slater glances at the weapon, and then back up at Joanna.

Matt Slater: And you'll be the one to do that, I imagine…?

Joanna: I would… but all that drama...you’re not worth it Matt. You don’t have the conviction to be a man worth my time or effort, let alone my happiness. But that desire, that brief moment of hope, now that is worth all the teasing and seduction I can muster. And you seem to have at least somewhat enjoyed the offer.

Matt Slater: If that’s what your perception has led you to believe… then so be it. Now… are you going to continue tormenting me, or are you going to try and put me out of my misery?

Slater glances at Hephty again, as if expecting her to attack. Joanna follows his gaze and doubles over in laughter, unable to stop she leans onto Hephty for support and eventually has to wipe tears away from her eyes.

Joanna: Oh Slater you’re definitely not worth going back to Toad Road for. Not to mention I’d never be able to look at your optimism get eaten away by reality. No I came here to see how you were doing and see how far you’ve fallen. I can’t convert those that think the sun will come out tomorrow, for reality doesn’t work like that.

Joanna slumps to her knees, leaning her glowing face against the shaft of her warhammer. Following Slater’s gaze to the floor and back to Slater a few times Joanna giggles a little before continuing her opinion.

Joanna: You have to get in the chariot and drag the sun across the sky yourself. Well not literally, but you’re smart enough to understand. Nothing is given, and nothing changes if you don’t force it with your own hands. Society wants drones, mindless, unimaginative drones, that want a better life but don’t want to do anything for it. I want to take the blinders off Slater, I want to enrage people to the point they do something. Passion, anger, desire... these win wars Slater, not hope and good intentions.

Joanna stands up looking down on the forlorn man with sick satisfaction. Brandishing Hephty as if it were no heavier than a kendo stick Joanna moans in pleasure as her eyes roll into her head and she takes in a deep breath.

Joanna: Look at the world around you Slater, and tell me I’m wrong. When you fail again, and your hope fades, you know where I am. Chaos will always have open arms for those that seek to spread the truth.

To clarify her point, Joanna extends her free hand forward, as if expecting Slater to take her hand and accept the deal or, more likely, demonstrating how correct she could likely be. The Silver Knight merely looks down, thinking deeply about her words. Suddenly, the sounds of charging footsteps reverberate around the corridor, garnering Joanna’s attention. Seeing someone coming at her, she expertly raises her warhammer upward, blocking a shot from another warhammer that is held by the intruding and furious Cera. At the same time Slater looks on, knowing he is unable to get between them. The two struggle momentarily until they break the deadlock, swinging their weapons away and staring at one another. As they do so, Joanna giggles again.

Joanna: Hmm well I’m not usually up for threesomes, but I can always make an exception for someone with such a lovely head. Cera, your hammer is beautiful.

Cera looks slightly disgusted for a brief moment, before a slight smirk crosses her own lips.

Cera: Of course it is. A weapon brandished and polished for nearly a decade had better be. Though I can appreciate another… user. You must be a fan, Joanna.

She offers the other woman a smile, strangely warm for the ‘Baddest Bitch’. Joanna returns the smile with a small sarcastic curtsy before planting Hephty on the ground. Meanwhile Slater looks back and forth, waiting for one of them to strike.

Joanna: Of you… can't say, haven't seen enough. Your hammer on the other hand, well you swing it better than most men.

Joanna's words contain the same tone she used on Slater, playful yet pointed. Cera puts on the mask of someone deeply moved by Thade’s words. With a hand to her chest, she flashes another strangely kind smile… before her eyes flicker over to Matt, and it disappears. Joanna merely giggles at the quick swap in demeanor as Cera speaks again in a lower tone.

Cera: Ah, playing with used toys I see.

Slater glances at Cera, one of his arms tensing in the process.

Joanna: You could say I like broken toys, once fixed they’re usually better than new ones. Certainly know what they need after being run over a few times by unappreciative heartless cun….cows. Sorry almost slipped up, cuteness.

Joanna puts a hand over her mouth to act as though it was an honest slip, even though her tone before that had made her opinion of Cera very clear. There’s a rather unimpressed expression crossing Cera’s features, as she sighs and twirls her warhammer there on the ground. Joanna looks between the two before shrugging and antagonizing the tag champion.

Joanna: Unless you still want to play with the toy, by all means. He's vulnerable, just your type.

Cera: My type tends to have balls. I’d say that makes you, Joanna Thade, my type… but those who can’t back up the sh-bleep- they spout are rather… unattractive. Though if you’re looking, Jen is always interested in new escapades.

She cringes at the mere mention of these supposed events. Joanna seems to be staring past Cera until the silence draws her attention.

Joanna: Oh I'm sorry. Usually when a pillow princess rants I just tune them out. But thanks for the heartfelt welcome to VoW, I think I preferred your partner's. But you are far more interesting, cuteness. Maybe I'll consider your offer, and we can knock hammers some more.

Joanna winks at Cera before licking the handle of Hephty without taking her eyes of the dangerous woman. Cera mouths ‘pillow princess?’ with a bewildered look, before cringing at the unsanitary action by Thade. With a shake of her head, the Baddest Bitch continues quietly.

Cera: I’m always up to the challenge even if, at the moment, I’ve bigger fish to fry. Perhaps sooner than later it’ll happen, though.

Joanna nods her approval and parts for the two with a few final words.

Joanna: I suggest a velvet glove... and Slater, do consider truth… and its blunt honesty.

As Thade heads off, Cera lingers before she turns to leave in the opposite direction. Suddenly, after watching Joanna depart, Slater turns his attention to Cera.

Matt Slater: Cera...

Cera freezes, fists tightening at her sides. After a moment, she exhales and speaks in that same quiet voice…

Cera: Did you send me it…?

Confusion manifests from Slater’s face.

Matt Slater: Did I send you what…?

There’s silence between the two as finally Cera meets his gaze… and smirks.

Cera: Of course not. What was I thinking…

Matt Slater: Clearly something that makes me look like a careless fool. But I might as well be, right?

Slater sighs heavily and looks to the floor momentarily.

Matt Slater: Look, Cera… I did attempt to contact you with a congratulatory message… but obviously that message was lost… or hastily deleted. As things stand… I can understand why…

Another moment of silence, before the Baddest Bitch audibly sighs herself. She picks up the warhammer and points it toward him.

Cera: This is far more irritating than you attempting to be a knight in shining armor. You're this f-bleep-ing close to curling up and shutting down. It's pathetic and childish.

As Slater digests her words, his eyes begin to change in tone.

Cera: Get over it and man up. If you can’t face me without breaking down then how the hell do you expect to save me?

After a few moments, Slater’s eyes become determined, focusing on Cera as she stares back. The storm brewing behind Cera’s eyes suddenly goes calm from Matt’s expression, and she even has the faint hint of a smile again as she drops the arm still holding the warhammer toward him.

Cera: That's better. I’d suggest keeping that look these next few weeks. You’ll need it.

And with that, she continues on her way, leaving Slater sitting there absorbing what has been said as the scene slowly fades out...

Katie Moicelle Vs. Alec Rose

Suddenly, “Open Your Heart” by Crush 40 begins to play throughout the arena, alerting the fans that the next match is about to begin and causing them to cheer at the recognition of the song. Slowly but surely, Katie Moicelle pops out from behind the curtain with a genuine smile on her face, really happy to be back in the states in front of the Alabama fans.

"Thunder, rain, and lightning. Danger, water rising. Clamour, sirens wailing. It's such a bad sign."

Once these words resound throughout the arena, Katie strides down the entrance ramp, slapping high fives with the cheering crowd.

Jerry Heisenberg: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, she hails from Crossville, Tennessee and weighed in tonight at 117lbs… KATIE MOICELLE!!!

Axel Reid: At Darkest Hour in Sheffield, England, Katie Moicelle shocked the world when she rolled up and pinned Dathyn in the middle of the ring. After so long, Katie finally won a match, and you can see the confidence beginning to come back with that smile on her face.

Ruby Parvati: You seem to be forgetting that it was that damn mannequin that distracted Dathyn long enough for Katie to win, Axel! She got lucky! Whoever has been planting those mannequins around, they helped her achieve success.

Axel Reid: Well Katie did hold on long enough against Dathyn before that happened… but those mannequins do confuse me. Someone is clearly up to something, especially when that mannequin starting laughing like a child…

Ruby Parvati: A creepy, disturbing child… and then that turkey screech! What the f-bleep-...

Arriving at the squared circle, Katie jumps onto the apron and enters like any other lady would. She gives the crowd a thumbs-up as her theme begins to fade out. Eventually, other words flow throughout the arena, bringing attention to the arrival of her opponent.

"There are, of course, those who do not want us to speak."

As the voice fades, the opening to "Digital World" by Amaranthe kicks up. The lights are flashing with the beat, as we see Alec Rose casually step onto stage. Along with the first verse, he holds up a tablet with the words "NEXT GENERATION" typed in bold lettering, as the crowd starts to cheer. He smiles slightly, making his way down the ramp, as his manager Lizzy Bowman heads out from behind the curtain with a megaphone. She starts shouting into it, pumping up the fans, as Rose continues along the ramp way, slapping a few hands on the way.

Jerry Heisenberg: And her opponent… he hails from San Diego, California and weighed in tonight at 197lbs… “THE ANALOG” ALEC ROSE!!!

Axel Reid: Alec Rose has really been hit-and-miss the past few months here in VoW. Unlike Katie, who went on a long streak of losses, Rose seems to win matches and then lose them the following week. He has not exactly been consistent, but maybe that will change soon enough.

Ruby Parvati: Well he did almost beat Zahara at Darkest Hour. However, he DID defeat Patrick Jones… but I agree with Ryder Blade. That’s not really an achievement anymore.

Axel rolls his eyes at Ruby putting down Jones. At ringside, Rose turns around and grabs the oncoming Bowman's hand, kissing the back of it, before smirking at her and sliding in backwards, using the ropes to swiftly hop to his feet. He lifts the tablet again to show an intricately drawn rose made from coding, the numbers and letters flashing different colors, before fading out. The Analog then casually hands the tablet to his manager, before raising his fists, positioning into an open stance and awaiting the start of the match as “Digital World” fades out.

Axel Reid: He is unable to talk, but we always seem to know the extent of Rose’s emotions. Can he control those emotions in this contest against Katie?

Ruby Parvati: All I know is, if they start beating the -bleep- out of each other, then that’ll stop people filing out to go to the bathroom.

The audible sound of Axel slamming his hands on the desk resonates, clearly disgruntled by Ruby’s attitude. Meanwhile the referee signals for the bell, officially starting the match.

DING DING DING!!!

Before both competitors grapple, they each administer a handshake, with Rose smiling proudly towards Katie. Katie accepts it with a nod, at which point they gain distance and then work out what the other will do.

Axel Reid: How often do you see that amount of respect in this day and age?

Ruby Parvati: That just made me feel sick. Wrestlers should just kick each other’s asses and not worry about who likes them!

Axel Reid: Okay, now you’re really starting to get on my nerves…

Both Rose and Katie size each other up before Rose moves forward with a lunging kick. Katie, being faster than Rose, dodges the attack while tripping Rose up with a drop toe hold. Alec pushes himself up onto his knees, but Katie steps in with knife edge chops to his chest, delivering a total of four in rapid succession before Rose blocks the fifth one and sets Katie into an elbow lock. With Katie under his control, Rose stands back up and changes the hold into a wrist lock, whereby he uses his strength to lift Katie into the air and hyper-extends her arm. Katie grimaces from the lock until Rose lowers her to the ground and delivers an Arm Drag, keeping Katie on the canvas as he locks her arm behind her in a hammerlock.

Axel Reid: A quick succession of strikes and holds here in the early going, and Rose has the advantage with Katie grounded. Due to her size and speed, he’ll need to keep her there to prevent being out-run.

Ruby Parvati: He should just snap her arm in two and get it over with. This is not appealing to me.

The crowd get behind Katie, willing her on as she deals with the hold. Failing to quit, Katie forces herself back to her feet as Rose keeps the hammerlock applied. However, Rose removes one of his hands from her wrist and uses it to scoop her into an upside-down position, giving her a scoop slam onto her crooked arm. Katie feels her arm and shakes it to get the feeling back, doing so as Rose hits the ropes and comes back with a jumping knee drop… only for Katie to move out of the way and cause Rose to hit the canvas instead.

Axel Reid: Katie was wise enough to see that move coming, and now she has time to regroup here as Rose shakes away the pain in his knee.

Shaking her arm once more, Katie looks back and forth between Rose and the ropes. Making her mind up, Katie runs to the ropes and rebounds off them with a diving elbow strike, taking Rose off his feet and to the mat! Still being fairly fresh, Rose rolls onto his front and pushes himself upward, but Katie has the confidence and determination to chop at Alec again, blistering his chest before she lays him out with three consecutive European Uppercuts!

Axel Reid: Katie is on fire here!

Ruby Parvati: Literally? If only…

Still undeterred by her physical attacks, Rose pushes himself up again, only for Katie to charge at him and take him down yet again with a Bicycle Kick! Katie then lies across Rose for a pinfall attempt!


ONE!






TWO!





TH--- NO!


Axel Reid: Katie thought she had him there, but Rose kicked out of that Bicycle Kick! You can’t count him out yet, but you also can’t say Katie is going to throw all of this away.

Remaining positive, Katie helps Rose back to his feet and delivers a spinning forearm. Rose staggers on his feet, giving Katie time to run at the ropes again. She comes back with a Crossbody, but Rose catches her and spins her into a Powerslam!

Ruby Parvati: Can I say she will now, Axel?

Rose wipes the sweat from his forehead before he brings Katie back to her feet. He gives her some stiff palm strikes before he whips her to the ropes… at which point Katie leans back on the middle rope like a pendulum before bouncing forward and quickly snapping Rose to the ground with a flying Lariat!

Axel Reid: The War Within A Breath from Katie!

Ruby Parvati: She’s going to lose this at the last hurdle, I bet you!

With the crowd fully behind her, Katie hits the ropes again and bounces on the second one, rolling backward with a corkscrew and crushing Rose underneath her body with a Senton!

Axel Reid: Star In The Night!

Ruby Parvati: Rose is seeing stars AGAIN…

Katie covers Rose as much as she can!


ONE!






TWO!








THREE!!!


DING DING DING!!!


Axel Reid: She did it again! Katie has won two matches in a row!

Ruby Parvati: I fear the end of the world is coming, Axel. This MUST be an omen…

Katie celebrates happily as the referee raises her arm in victory, and even though Rose lost, Bowman silently claps her hands outside the ring, congratulating Katie on the victory.

Jerry Heisenberg: Here is your winner… KATIE MOICELLE!!!

Axel Reid: Katie is overjoyed and I don’t blame her. This time there was no mannequin with creepy sounds. This time Katie managed to counter Rose’s attacks and kept him down with a Corkscrew Senton. She deserved this win tonight, and no one can take that away from her.

Ruby Parvati: But how long will it last? How long until she falls back into that slump and becomes a loser again?

Still occupying the ring, Katie looks down at Rose, who is beginning to sit up. He feels his stomach and shakes his head, clearly disappointed by the loss. But once he sees Katie, he looks genuinely impressed. He nods out of respect, at which point Katie helps him up and invites Bowman into the ring.

Ruby Parvati: Oh what is this -bleep-? STOP IT ALREADY!

Axel Reid: I actually like this. This is true sportsmanship. This is true respect right here.

Katie raises Rose’s arm as Bowman continues to applaud behind them. Katie then raises Bowman’s hand, who receives a nice cheer from the fans, making her blush. All three then thank the fans for their support as we cut to commercial...

An Xcellent Screwjob?

We return from commercial as the feed cuts to the back, where we see attractive interim interviewer Zelda Lawson standing by. It is not clear what the original intent of her intervention might have been – but whatever it was, it almost immediately gets hijacked, as a recognizable voice is heard from off-screen:

Voice: Yooooo, Zeeeeellll!!!

Zelda rolls her eyes as the owner of the voice – none other than the Xcellent Champion, Ryder Blade – makes his entrance, surprisingly enough without his security team in tow. Taking a moment to wink and smirk at the camera as he enters, The X then does the same towards Zelda:

Ryder Blade: 'Sup babe? Big ups on the lil tyke! When you gonna tell Tylenol it ain't his?

Zelda scowls in anger, glowering at Ryder, but The X shows no particular remorse, instead pointing out:

Ryder Blade: Speaking of your hubby, where's he at? The X needs to have a lil rap with him, you dig?

Much to Ryder's amazement, Zelda points a finger to a spot somewhere behind him:

Zelda Lawson: Right there.

Ryder turns around to find himself face to face with a none-too-happy Tyler Storm, who promptly steps in to face him. The two have a stare down – Ryder, surprisingly, not backing down despite the absence of his bodyguards – before the X-Champion speaks, affecting a jovial tone:

Ryder Blade: Tylenol! Just the dude The X wanted to see! How's it goin', big guy? The X was just telling your babe congrats on the Mini-Me!

Ryder smacks Tyler on the shoulder companionably, but The Hybrid does not seem at all amused. Tyler does give a little dry laugh under his breath though, smirking as he looks over to his wife.

Tyler Storm: Hey Zel, I'll take care of this. Stacy said she wanted to see you for a moment.

Zelda nods as she leaves the area, then Tyler turns his focus back to Ryder.

Tyler Storm: Alright Ryder, well let me start and say thank you very much for the congrats, but let's go ahead and cut the crap cuz I know you ain't here to congratulate me after your little interruption earlier in the night.


Ryder acts a little taken aback at this, though how much of it is sincere is hard to tell.

Ryder Blade: Bruh. NOT cool. The X was happy for her FOR REAL, yo.

After a moment, however, he adds:

Ryder Blade: But yeah...The X wanted to have a lil rap with you about this referee thing tonight. 'Cause The X can smell what that babe Sky is cooking...and bruh, it ain't smelling too good to The X. In fact...if The X had to guess...he'd say we're having SCREWJOB for dinner. You feel what The X is saying, bruh?

There is a surprising edge to The X's voice - without his tone being entirely menacing, his words do come off as a serious warning, rather than his usual jokey remarks. Tyler nods along with Ryder's remarks before smiling and going on.

Tyler Storm: Well I mean considering our past Ryder, I can definitely see why you would assume I am concocting some kind of plan to screw you over tonight. In fact I would probably feel just the same if the shoe was on the other foot. But trust me dude, I can assure you that tonight I have absolutely 0 favorites in how this goes and I fully intend to call this right down the middle.

Tyler's smile does disappear after a short moment and he continues on in a bit more serious tone.

Tyler Storm: That being said, I also am going to make sure this match doesn't have any kind of crap ending and I am not going to allow anybody in this arena attack you or Seth while I'm in that ring. So just fair warning to you, if you think I am just going to allow some kind of easy out for you tonight, rest assured that if you try anything, and I've already mentioned this to Seth as well, I will be happy to make sure swift action is taken so this match ends in a clean victory for someone.

Tyler's smile returns and he jokingly leans on Ryder's shoulder.

Tyler Storm: Other than that, just have fun out there tonight dude. If I know this crowd, and this being my city I know I do, they love a good fight. I know you can bring it, I faced that first hand and I can admit to you that you are one of the best fighters I've ever faced when you take away your dirty tactics of the past. I also know Seth is one of the best on this roster and he proves that every time he gets to fight. It's really going to be an honor to referee this match, and from one champion to another all I can really say is good luck to you and I hope no matter the outcome you can keep on this cool little roll you've been on.

Ryder once again acts offended:

Ryder Blade: Dude...you act like The X NEEDS easy outs anymore! When was the last time you saw The X NOT win a match clean?

Tyler thinks for a moment, but Ryder does not give him time to come up with an answer:

Ryder Blade: That's right...that long ago. So your little warning? Yeah...better go give it to Iser, 'cause The X don't need to hear it. You dig, bruh?

Ryder allows himself a smirk and a wink towards Tyler:

Ryder Blade: Oh, and Zel...? ...looked SHMOKIN'!

With this, The X casually brushes past Tyler, oblivious to the fact that the latter is trying VERY hard not to lash out at him. It is on a glower from the hometown hero that the segment fades out, the broadcast promptly cutting elsewhere.

Zahara Matisse Vs. Stacy Jones

Jerry Heisenberg: Our next match is a singles bout, scheduled for one fall.... first to the ring, weighing in tonight at 143lbs and standing at 5'7... she hails from Atlantic City, New Jersey... ZAHARA MATISSE!!!

The classic pop tune "Lucky Star" by Madonna starts up as spotlights shine upward through the stage toward the rafters above. A light shower of glitter is released from above, catching the aforementioned lights nicely as Zahara Matisse twirls her way through the curtains, coming to a stop at the top of the ramp. She takes a grand bow once there, briefly removing her top hat before rising and putting it back in place. She's all smiles on her way down the ramp, 'magically' creating flowers from the tip of her 'wand' and handing them to the children in the crowd as she passes.

She hops easily onto the apron, briefly posing in front of the ropes before rising and stepping through the top and middle strands before ascending the turnbuckles. Twirling her wand between her fingers, she flicks it in the direction of the ringside fans, showering them with confetti and small streamers, getting a happy reaction in response. Hopping down to the mat, she removes her hat, gloves and coat, setting them beneath the bottom turnbuckle along with her wand before beginning to stretch in preparation for her match.

Axel Reid: Are you excited for this match? I'm so freaking stoked...

Ruby Parvati: Stoked...?

Axel Reid: Yes! This is a great match-up! A battle between two people who are here to entertain the masses! They want to put on a good show for the fans, and make sure their part in this event is remembered as one of the best of the night! It's all over Twitter!

Ruby Parvati: I see. Well, I'm not holding my breath on this one. All I know is... Stacy hasn't proven that she's of sound mind, and Zahara is on a streak that might just threaten the likes of Ryder Blade's. I also just don't like Jones. Either of them.

Axel Reid: Stacy has returned with a purpose. And to be put against one another is not only an honor for both competitors to some degree, but it's also a way to test what level Zahara has grown to and what Stacy has brought back with her. That's why I'm excited.

As Axel says this, "Lift Me Up" by Five Finger Death Punch suddenly blasts out of the PA system as Stacy Jones bursts out from behind the curtain with a huge smile across her face as the fans stand to their feet and cheer wildly. She begins to head down the ramp, slapping as many of the fans hands as possible on her way.

Jerry Heisenberg: Making her way to the ring... from New York City, New York... standing at 5'7 and weighing in at 150 pounds! She is... STACY JONES!!!

Reaching the ring, Stacy climbs up onto the ring apron and with her back against the ropes, she takes a look out at the fans before she backflips over the top rope and into the ring. Walking to the centre of the ring, she raises her arms and makes the devils horns with her hands before removing her jacket and bandanna as "Lift Me Up" fades out. The two women then face one another and smile, before kindly shaking hands. The fans cheer this show of sincerity as the competitors then back away, awaiting the bell....



DING DING DING!!!



The two women quickly lock up, with Stacy quickly cinching in a side headlock. She takes Zahara down with an excellent headlock takeover! The fans cheer on the move itself, as both competitors start to get back up with the hold still applied! Jones changes the headlock into a wrist lock, a grimace of pain making it's way onto the other woman's face.

Axel Reid: Stacy takes control right away!

Ruby Parvati: But for how long?

As Ruby says this, we see Stacy keeping that hold and chopping at Zahara with her free hand. She pulls Matisse into a fireman's carry takeover... but is stunned when Zahara flips over onto her feet!! The Enchanting One quickly arm drags Stacy, then as soon as they're both back on their feet, she swiftly pops a dropkick into her foe as well!

Never one to give up so easily, Stacy rolls back up a second time... only for Zahara to back leg sweep her, following that up with a standing moonsault!!! She drops for a quick cover...



1 . . NO!!!



Axel Reid: Definitely way too early for this match to end.

Ruby Parvati: It seems to be pretty even thus far, though.

The crowd applauds Zahara's attempt, but also cheer Stacy on as she returns to her feet... only for her to take another dropkick! She's sent down, and with a bit of showboating, Matisse then goes for a cartwheel leg drop... but her playing to the fans gives Stacy enough time to sit up and dodge that drop!!!

With Zahara flat on her butt, Jones gets up and flips over Zahara, grabbing her head mid-way for a neckbreaker! Immediately afterward, she locks in a figure four neck lock! The Magical Maiden struggles in the hold, looking flustered.

Ruby Parvati: The far more experienced Stacy seems to have gotten the upperhand here.

Axel Reid: And Zahara is desperately looking for a way out.

After a few moments of struggling, Zahara is able to turn over, breaking up Stacy's legs and snatching one up for a knee smash! It obviously has it's effects on the other woman, as Matisse is back up and dragging her foe to her feet. She swiftly whips her to the ropes, then hits Jones with an exploder suplex on the rebound!!! She goes for another pin attempt!



1 . . .



2-NO!



Ruby Parvati: I know Stacy was resilient before... but something seems different now. She seems so much... tougher. What changed I wonder?

Axel Reid: Whatever it is, she's proving to be the valiant competitor we know her to be!

With that kickout from Stacy, Zahara has a slight pout playing on her lips. But she brushes it off and grabs her opponent's arm, delivering a double knee backbreaker!

Ruby Parvati: Ouch. That looked rough.

Axel Reid: Especially when it's followed up with a fujiwara armbar! Stacy's poor arm!

Ruby Parvati: Oh how I love to watch her struggle.

We see Stacy squirming, though withstanding the pain, as she glances out toward the excited but worried crowd. With an audible exhalation, Jones manages to battle back to her feet! She then snaps a fist right into her foe's stomach! The force causes poor Zahara to break any hold left, and Stacy then immediately pops her with an uppercut, followed by a strong sitout facebuster!!

Ruby Parvati: Okay, THAT is more deserving of an 'ouch'! For 'friendly competition', these two are really going at it!

Axel Reid: It has to do with respect, Ruby. They're giving each other their all. It's fair but ferocious... a battle to make this a match the Alabama crowd will remember!

Ruby Parvati: Well it looks like it may just be over, because Stacy's done waving out to the crowd and is covering Zahara!



1 . . .



2 . . .-NO!!!



Ruby Parvati: That one almost hit 3. I'm honestly surprised at how this match is going...

Axel Reid: I told you. Possibly one of if not the match of the night!

Stacy is first to get up, but is obviously fatigued. She loosens up her arm and reaches down to grab hold of Zahara... however, Matisse swings her legs up and them around that arm, dragging her foe to the ground for another fujiwara armbar!!! But this time Stacy expertly rolls out of it, rolling back to her feet and rubbing that arm. Zahara also gets to her feet and immediately heads over, kicking Jones a few times in the stomach before running at the ropes opposite of the two.

As Matisse runs back toward the other woman, Stacy catches her and lifts her up with a tilt-a-whirl, swiftly transitioning it into a spinning torture rack that has the crowd going wild! She keeps the momentum going and follows through with a backbreaker, all in a fluid motion!



1 . . .



2 . . .



3-NO!!!



Zahara kicks out at the last second! Stacy shakes her head and drags the other woman up with her. She whips Matisse into the corner and flips over with a handspring back elbow, before following with a running bulldog! Jones doesn't stop there, handspringing again, this time off the ropes and into a moonsault.... but Zahara moves away at the nick of time! A befuddled Stacy gets back up... but is taken out by a facebreaker knee smash! The Magical Maiden then hits a leaping reverse STO on her adversary!!!

Axel Reid: The Trap Chamber! What a move!

Ruby Parvati: Indeed. And there's another cover...



1 . . .



2 . . .



3-NO!!!



Now Stacy barely kicks out, and both women take a moment to recover from this hard fought bout. After a moment, Zahara gets up and Stacy follows suit. Both women shake off the cobwebs and head right over, trading kicks with one another! Matisse gets the last shot with a jumping knee strike that is hurriedly followed by her Shimmerstep combo! If the kicks to the leg and chest weren't enough, the final spinning hook kick to her head knocks Stacy for a loop!

We then see Zahara move over to the top rope. She panders a bit as a dizzy Jones is slowly pushing herself up again. Matisse notices this and jumps off for a hurricanrana... but Stacy turns it into an elevated boston crab!!!

Ruby Parvati: Another one of these?!

Axel Reid: Stacy seems to utilize holds very well.

Ruby Parvati: Doesn't mean much when they're too close to the ropes! Zahara just reached them, and that's the quickest I've ever seen someone break their hold!

Axel Reid: Again... it's about respect, Ruby...

Stacy is moving back to her feet, and she waits for her foe to get back up... before snapping out a jumping corkscrew roundhouse kick! 'Stacy's Kick' now knocks Zahara for a loop! She then goes for yet another cover!!!



1 . . .



2 . . .



3!-NO!!!



Ruby Parvati: WOW! Was that CLOSE! The ref's hand was JUST about to slap the mat a third time!

Axel Reid: These two are doing exactly what they set out to.

Both women are obviously exhausted by this point. Stacy is on her feet again, seeming to be calling for the end as she waits for her opponent to stand again. Finally Zahara is up, feeling her head... only for Jones to grab her arm, going for 'Your Final Penance'... but Matisse is able to kick at Stacy's arm, right at the joint, to avoid it! Jones jerks back, flinching, and Zahara goes for another hurricanrana... only for Stacy to hold her up and then go for a powerbomb! But Zahara frantically switches around on Stacy's shoulders so that they're facing the same way, before hurriedly rolling forward to trap the other woman, effectively pinning her there on the mat!!!



1 . . .



2 . . .



3!!!



DING DING DING!!!



Jerry Heisenberg: The winner via pinfall... ZAHARA MATISSE!!!

Axel Reid: THAT was unexpected! Trapping her after that kind of counter...

Ruby Parvati: It rather fits Zahara... and it ended in her victory! I'm actually not too disappointed... now if only she would take Robinson up on his offer...

Axel Reid: Or she could keep going her down her own road, which seems to be leading her to quite the legacy. Either way... both women did a spectacular job, and the crowd definitely agrees!

Axel laughs as we hear the fans cheering for Stacy and Zahara, who have helped each other to their feet. They respectfully shake hands, and Stacy lifts up the other woman's arm as a show of good sportmanship, only causing the crowd to cheer louder.

Matisse then leaves the ring and makes her way up the ramp, slapping the fans hands on the way before disappearing behind the curtain to the back. Just as Jones begins to make her way out of the ring as well, the lights in the arena suddenly go out and the howl of a wolf is heard going throughout the area, causing the crowd to boo loudly.

Ruby Parvati: Looks like Stacy has an old visitor, courtesy of The Orphanage.

Just as Parvati says this, the titantron comes on with a bit of static at first, but the footage begins to clear as Jones looks up at it in confusion. In view is Winter Pine sitting in front of the camera, smiling as she looks on.

Winter Pine: Stacy, you sweet little ignorant one, good job on that amazing match. I mean what a way to return so strongly to VoW as a competitor...

Jones, not looking too pleased about the interruption, calls for a microphone and is handed one.

Stacy Jones: You know something Winter, I’m actually rather glad you decided to show your face...I have a bone to pick with you, so why don’t you quit being a damn coward and get your ass into this ring...right...NOW!

The fans cheer wildly at the prospect of seeing the two rivals slug it out in the middle of the ring as Pine laughs softly as she just shakes her head.

Winter Pine: My how you love just going straight to business, I can respect that I guess. But sweetie, as much as I would love to make my presence felt in that ring right now, I'm kinda sad to say that I'm actually not even at the arena right now. After all, I spent enough of the time in my life in that inbred Hell hole that is Alabama back when I spent my last couple of years of high school there, so I asked for the night off and was granted it to use for healing purposes.

The crowd boos loudly as she shakes off the negative reaction.

Winter Pine: Stacy, I want to know, why is it you feel so obligated to be such a role model for these simple minded people? For all those little girls who will end up probably being nothing more than failures for their families later in life? Why do you care so much for these pathetic minds?

Jones paces the ring a little, trying her best not to get too frustrated.

Stacy Jones: Because these so-called simple minded pathetic failures, as you like to call them...some of them truly believe that they are failures...when they’re not! And the reason WHY they think the way they do, is because of bullies like you! They need someone who they can look up too and trust in to tell them that they aren’t simple minded failures...and that if they put their minds to it...they can achieve whatever they damn well want too achieve in life! I give people like that hope...and every single day...I bump into someone who’s life has changed for the better, because of me! Because they stood up for themselves against bullies like you!

Winter Pine: You know that is so funny Stacy, because what I don't get is how you can be so successful helping these little girls and other people, yet when it comes to your own children you couldn't even succeed as a mother. I mean it's just so weird how you can care about so many strangers without a problem, yet your two little ones that came from your own weak tubes, you failed constantly. I mean parents, can you really let your kids look up to such a person as that?

The crowd boos loudly at Pine, yet some faces in the audience make it clear that her words did possibly get through to some people, some of said people actually aiming boos at Jones herself.

Stacy Jones: Don’t you dare bring my children into this! Have I made mistakes in my life? Yes I have! Could I have done better at being there for my children? Yes I could have! But I’m human...and humans make mistakes!

Pacing the ring even more, it’s quite clear that the words of Pine are really beginning to get to Jones.

Stacy Jones: What matters is that I am working on rectifying those mistakes! And I love my children more than life itself and I will do anything to make sure that they are safe and looked after!

Just as she says this, Pine begins laughing very loudly, almost maniacally.

Winter Pine: Oh Stacy, you need not worry about those sweet little ones...after all, they have...me.

As Pine finishes, the footage statics up and changes to a different video, now showing her two children, Nick and Chelsea, playing with some toys, and in clear view near them is Pine sitting on the floor.

Stacy Jones: Nick...Chels...my beautiful babies...

Jones raises her free hand up out in front of her, as if she were trying to touch the screen as tears begin to stream down her cheeks.

Axel Reid: This is hard to watch...

Ruby Parvati: Well, it’s her own fault really...

The entire arena is silent as they watch the poor distressed mother in the ring, obviously wishing that her children were right there beside her.

Stacy Jones: Mommy loves you both very much...you know that, right?

Nick gets up from the floor and brings a toy wolf over to Pine, both smiling as Nick now sits down next to her.

Winter Pine: Aww, thank you sweetie. You know the wolf is a strong animal, one very loyal to it's pack and family, especially the momma wolf.

Nick: She looks fluffy and cool, I like her...

Winter Pine: As do I, she is my favorite animal you know. Reminds me a lot of myself...

She begins making a joke growling noise and begins tickling Nick, causing him to laugh and smile brightly. As she stops, Nick who is now laying down flat on the ground looks up at her.

Nick: Daddy told me that you are gonna be our new Mommy, is that true?

Pine blushes a little and begins to laugh, while in the ring Jones begins to look more distraught then ever.

Stacy Jones: No...no...NO!!! GET AWAY FROM THEM!!! LEAVE THEM ALONE!!!

Dropping to her knees, her sobbing becomes even heavier as the camera cuts to some other women in the crowd, mainly mothers who have tears in their eyes as they hold onto their children.

Winter Pine: Did he really tell you that now? Well I'm not quite sure why he would say that, but do you want me to be your Mommy? I mean, I know you and Chelsea must feel so alone having all those mean witches be so distant from you guys. Witches will try to manipulate you to think they are good too...

Pine looks right towards where the camera is and smirks sinisterly.

Winter Pine: But the mother wolf is very protecting of her young ones, she promises them safety and to always be there, to teach them her ways.

Nick: Do you promise you will be nice to me and Chelsea?

Winter Pine: If you can be nice to me too, then of course my little pup.

Nick: Then...I think I'd be okay with you being my new Mommy. You seem really nice to daddy and you give me the best hugs.

She smiles as she wraps Nick in a hug, her sinister smile growing bigger and bigger, the screen soon becoming warped until it shows one of the last pictures Jones took with Nick and Chelsea, silence filling the arena until the sound of a lighter is heard out of view. The picture begins to burn as the screen pans out, showing Pine holding the picture and laughing loudly as the crowd just boo louder and louder.

Axel Reid: Winter has gone way too far with this whole thing, especially considering Stacy is still in the process of trying to recover from her depression...

Ruby Parvati: Winter did nothing wrong Axel! It’s not her fault Stacy’s son wants a better mother...

Back in the ring and Jones has begun to breathe very heavily, her face displaying more of a look of anger rather than sadness. She suddenly bolts up to her feet, glaring at Pine on the titantron.

Stacy Jones: I’M GOING TO KILL YOU!!! YOU HEAR ME??? I’M GOING TO F<BLEEP>ING KILL YOU!!!

Pine smiles as she leans in towards the camera.

Winter Pine: Good luck trying, little witch. Just know, even if you do, I've already won where it matters most. By the way, when you get a chance, can you send me a few gift ideas over Twitter for Nick and Chelsea, I want to make sure they get a very good Christmas...from Momma Wolf...

The titantron and lights shut back out, and as they come back on sitting right in front of Stacy in the ring is the barely visible remains of the photograph Pine was burning, along with the wolf toy that Nick was playing with, and a black rose, as Pine's voice can be heard over the arena speakers singing.

Winter Pine: Who's afraid of the big bad wolf...the big bad wolf...poor little Stacy, please don't cry...even though you know...your kids...are...MINE!

Jones bends down and picks up the toy wolf in one hand and the black rose in the other, staring at them both for a few moments in some form of trance.

Axel Reid: How can Winter be so...no pun intended here...but how can she be so cold? This poor woman is battling with depression, trying to get her children back and she tortures her with this?

Ruby Parvati: That’s why I’m never having kids, too much hassle...

Suddenly she throws them out of the ring and lets out a blood curdling scream at the top of her voice. Rolling out of the ring, she grabs her hair with both hands tightly, looking as if she’s going to pull it out before she suddenly kicks the steel steps hard, knocking them out of position.

Axel Reid: Stacy’s flipped!

Ruby Parvati: What do you expect? She’s not right in the head...

She storms around the ring over to the announce table and tears the table apart, picking up the monitors and throwing them in various directions, forcing the commentators to get out of the way.

Axel Reid: Stacy...please...calm down...

Ruby Parvati: Good luck with that... I TOLD you she isn't of sound mind!

She then storms over to the timekeepers area and begins to throw the chairs and the ring bell around, constantly screaming and crying out when suddenly, Tyler Storm appears on scene and restrains Jones before beginning to walk her to the back, trying to calm her down on the way.

Axel Reid: There we see Tyler Storm, one of Stacy’s closest friends...this must be painful for him to witness as well...

Ruby Parvati: Oh wah wah! Grow up will you Axel!

The two reach the top of the stage and disappear behind the curtain as we cut to a word from our sponsor......