Post by Eden on May 6, 2023 8:10:55 GMT -5
"This Means War" by Bullet For My Valentine opens the show. A quick succession of highlights from the first Ascension play as our opening package, going through entries and eliminations in the battle royale, to each of our contenders for the World Championship cinching their place in a future match, and then the main event ending with Matthews locking in a hard fought victory. It ends with the view of the World Championship belt hanging above the ring in that eerie lighting.
Smashcut to the arena tonight, the view on Eden already standing in the center of the ring with a microphone dangling loosely in one hand. She lets the crowd get some cheering out of their system as they realize the cameras have gone live, shots panning around the Elysium Arena. As the music dies out and the view circles back to her, she raises the microphone, a short pause to let them quiet down in politeness before beginning.
EDEN DUBOIS:
Well, I wasn't sure how the very first show would go. Busting out from any oversight or rules from seldom-seen previous ownership, blazing a trail with a new brand that combined roster members from all three past shows, bringing in just as many brand new faces. Not gonna lie, I didn't know who would remember, who would show up-- both from our fans and our past talent. I put together the best event I could with a hefty dose of caution, and...
Another pause, shorter. She's looking around an arena considerably more loud and perhaps more crowded than last week's, who respond to her attention.
EDEN DUBOIS:
Everyone exceeded my hopes, by a lot!
A smile breaks across her face and the crowd pops for a compliment that was partly paid to them, as well as agreeing with her on the quality. She's not done though, and reels it back in.
EDEN DUBOIS:
And after that nontitle showdown of two champions bringing their belts back to the company, as well as at least the presence of the World title back in the company... we have another returning champion. Not a current titleholder bringing back one of our belts back, but before Skylar Carsons has her say this person will be in the final match tonight, facing one of our number one contenders to the World Championship. This is a Hall of Heroes Class of 2011 member, a former Demolition, International, Underground, No Limits, and Hardcore Champion here. He held the Tag Team Championships with Rocco Ross. He's done basically everything one can do here outside of the World Championship, and its appearance in the last show has perhaps drawn him back to us from the shadows, at least I suspect so.
The audience has grown quieter and quieter as she spoke, the longer tenured fans trying to put together the pieces. But finally, she breaks the suspense.
EDEN DUBOIS:
Here with us tonight... THE EPITOME OF DIVINITY, DEVIN COPELAND!
The second the name escaped Eden's mouth, the crowd began a roar of cheers and applause as "All the Same" by Orgy begins playing over the PA system. A name well known amongst the WWH faithful for his part in the Age of the Fall faction with fellow Hall of Heroes member, Jason Krow; the Syrene, California audience couldn't contain their excitement for the return of Devin Copeland.
The lights go off, switching between reds, whites, and black of various saturations. A sole, white light finally hits the top of the ramp, where Devin Copeland stepped his way out. The roars of the audience was palpable, nearly drowning the sounds of his theme song. Donned in a cut off Devin Copeland shirt, tattered and holey skinny jeans, and black combat boots, the hues of his eyes hid behind blackened steampunk glasses. Stopping in the limelight, both literally and figuratively, he looks out to the Ascension crowd, not able to hide the smirk on his face, playing off their emotions.
🎶 No, no, no
No, no, no
No, no, no
No, no, no 🎶
The lyrics finish their brief loop with Devin looking over the crowd, he finally begins to step forward, the light following him through the ramp. With that though, he couldn't contain his excitement, throwing an arm forward while exclaiming at the top of his lungs "LET'S GO!", in turn eliciting another round of cheers from the crowd.
As he made his way down the ramp, a slight pep in his step, he began alternating back and forth between both sides of the ramp way to the various fans who were lucky to get front row tickets, giving high fives and hand shakes, looking genuinely joyed to be there. Closer towards the bottom of the ramp, over to where a rounded corner of the barricade was, he pointed out both arms to them, fingers outward almost like a gun, and could visibly be seen saying something, but it was indecipherable.
Out of the blue, Devin makes a full speed run towards them, clearing the barricade with a high jump and directly into the crowd, causing another roar of cheers to come from the California natives to his actions. He poses himself in the crowd with his own cheers and adolations of being excited to be back. He enjoys his moment being in the crowd, feeling them becoming rowdy around and with him, before hopping back out and pacing his way back over to the stairs. Slowly making his way up them, once he is on the apron, he wipes his feet as a show of respect for the squared circle before slingshotting himself over the top rope, bouncing his chest off the top turnbuckle, and landing safely in the ring on both feet.
Devin walks his way over to Eden, still standing in the ring, and grabs a hand with both of his, bending over as a sign of respect to his new boss before letting go and heading to the hard camera side of the ropes. He steps one foot up onto the bottom rope before thrusting his other leg over the top and onto the outside middle rope, holding his balance with one hand before throwing a finger up and hollering at the crowd, granting them another moment to rain on him cheers and applause. He holds this position for a few moments before hopping himself down from the ropes and back to the middle of the ring while the lights fade back to normal and his theme dissipates.
The crowd, now not being quieted with the music, are louder than ever for the return of the Epitome of Divinity to a WWH ring. He glances around at everyone in the arena, allowing them their moment of the spotlight. As this goes on, a crew member sneaks a microphone over to him out of the sight of the faithful. As he begins to raise the microphone up, the crowd start in with a chant.
DEVIN! DEVIN! DEVIN! DEVIN!
He paused as this set in, visibly laughing to the crowd and their excitement for his return. After giving them a few seconds to calm before bringing the microphone back up.
DEVIN COPELAND:
SYRENE, CALIFORNIA!
As if being a ringleader of a circus, commanding an animal to do as he pleases, the crowd once again pops for him. Giving that a few more seconds, he continues.
DEVIN COPELAND:
The WWH crowd is STILL just a simple minded as ever thinking that I would EVER be on the side of you ignorant fools!
As he starts to spill out the truth of his personality, his demeanor completely shifts from being cheery and upbeat to gaining an aura of hate and disgust towards the crowd, his face hardening and scowling. The crowd immediately jeers at him, realizing that the decade away from them has not softened his personality to them in the least bit.
DEVIN COPELAND:
You simpletons honestly thought that I had changed any? That I was suddenly gonna be on your side? That I was a changed man? A people's champion? A face, as the smarks of the internet would put it?
Another round of boos rain down on him, which can be seen pleasing him.
DEVIN COPELAND:
NOTHING has changed for me! I STILL hate the lot of you, and I STILL would never be your God damn role model!
They had been swerved. Remembering exactly who it is they are dealing with, the crowd flows itself with hate for the man standing in the middle of the ring. He simply chuckles to their reaction before turning his attention over to Eden.
The look on her face as this plays out has been like some collision between oh-no-he-didn't and... impressed, actually. Him taking the time to drive his point home before he turns back to her has given her a beat to regain her composure.
EDEN DUBOIS:
Well, that was... quite something. Can't exactly fault you for making it perfectly clear where you stand, and even a hero's welcome won't change it apparently. I might've matched you up perfectly without fully realizing it against Striker-- both of you seem to be very blunt regardless of whether anyone likes what they're hearing. But I think the first question I have for you tonight would be, what's brought you back? What are your goals, bigger picture than tonight?
Devin just kind of glances at her for a brief moment, his head cocks slightly to the side, almost as if he has just been asked some kind of ignorant question.
DEVIN COPELAND:
What brought me back? Oh please, honey. I can promise it's not these people.
He waves an arm out to the crowd, making it perfectly obvious where he stands with them.
DEVIN COPELAND:
Lemme start before actually answering you. I know you're new here. The last time I was here, there was a stubborn asshole who held your exact position now --
Despite where he stands with the crowd, it seems there are a few cheers coming from the crowd to the obvious shot at the previous management.
DEVIN COPELAND:
-- you keep your precious little cheers to yourself, that comment wasn't for you, that was for me!
The cheerers instantly change their position right back to where Devin wants them in that brief moment.
DEVIN COPELAND:
As I was saying before I was RUDELY interrupted, you're new here. So allow me to officially introduce myself. I am the Epitome of Divinity, Devin Copeland.
The mere mention of his name elicits a reaction from the crowd, to which Devin just kinda sneers a little, not even engaging them in that moment and continuing to lock eyes with the boss.
DEVIN COPELAND:
And it seems you've done your homework! Demolition Heavyweight Champion. International Champion. Hardcore Champion. Two time No Limits Champion. World Tag Team Champion. 2011 Hall of Heroes.
As he furthers himself down the list, his words feel slightly more intense with each accomplishment listed, but they also seem to slow down at the same time. Devin begins pacing his way back and forth as he spoke.
DEVIN COPELAND:
Now those are all well and good. Nothing to scoff at, right? I've had a hell of a career both in and out of WWH. And while I'm sure all these illiterate stooges here tonight want me to say I came back for them and to get one last good run in to please them, they don't sign my paychecks.
It is like clockwork for him. With every taunt to them, they respond back in full force, and his body language states he is eating up every little jeer.
DEVIN COPELAND:
No, no, no, I'm back for one thing, and one thing only, and I don't even have to spell it out for you. Now tell me, boss lady, since you did all that research into my history. Think back on all of what you and I listed together like we're on fucking Sesame Street. What's the one thing that didn't get listed there?
He pauses a moment, as if to let Eden speak, but his silence didn't last long enough for her to respond.
DEVIN COPELAND:
Actually, let me save you the grief of having to share more of your oxygen as these mouth breathers. I want the WWH World Heavyweight Championship.
The mere thought of this man being their world champion audibly sickens the crowd.
DEVIN COPELAND:
Yeah, yeah, I'm a professional wrestler. It's no secret that everyone wants to be the world champion. How's that old saying go? 'If you're not in the business to be world champion then don't bother being here.' A 'no shit Sherlock' moment. But what everyone here doesn't understand is that day in and day out for the past ten years of my happy retirement, I've had to sit and stew on the fact that, of all the things I've said and done in my career, that World Heavyweight Championship has been the one thing that had always eluded me. The mere thought of that ate away at me like a plague from the inside out.
The sheer intensity in his voice shows everyone that what he is speaking is gospel.
DEVIN COPELAND:
That thought has been a waking nightmare for me. Day in and day out, back in those days, I had to listen to each and every person in those seats, back in that locker room, sitting comfortably at those same desks you call a home, Eden--
You could hear the disdain in his mouth as he utters her name, but not at her specifically. More like at the position she holds.
DEVIN COPELAND:
I had to sit and listen to them praise the likes of people like Zane Strident.
A small pop comes from the crowd to the Hall of Heroes name being dropped, as would follow suit.
DEVIN COPELAND:
Jason Krow. Lucky Lawliet. Johnny V. Nick Sanderson. But you know who's name never got put in that same category? Devin. Copeland. I was never put into that same category with people like that, and it absolutely disgusts me. And I'm about damn tired of being an afterthought of the WWH world title history. The man who never could've been good enough to join those ranks. Because God damn it, I'm just as good, if not, better than all of those sons of bitches, and I'm back to prove it without a shadow of a doubt.
The microphone falls from his mouth to his side, still firmly grasped in his hand, as he looks on to Eden to get her take. The smile frozen on her face that's been there since he called her honey isn't... friendly. Still, she certainly lets him go till he runs out of words.
EDEN DUBOIS:
I didn't realize being here for four years now was new, but we learn something every day, don't we? Here's the thing, Mister Copeland, I did my research, but you evidently... didn't. You've just decided to hate me because of the position I occupy, decided this somehow makes me your enemy. I'm quite used to that by now, though. Your opponent tonight holds much the same view, actually. But if I was half as power-mad and narcissistic as you assume I'd be-- probably because that's how you'd be in this position-- I'd be insisting that if you wanted your paychecks signed, much less a title shot... that you erase Honey from your vocabulary when dealing with me and use the Doctor title I actually earned.
The smile fades into a stare.
EDEN DUBOIS:
I don't know if Sanatorium was around when you last were here, but that's where I started, as a psychiatrist. And as those who just couldn't handle leadership around here fell away one after another, I kept rising to the challenges and going outside my comfort zone and learning this business. Still, given my base skills, when it comes to looking at your résumé and noticing the biggest thing missing and how that probably affects you, I'm not too shabby. Did you think you got booked against one of our two World contenders in the last match of the night because you were well awarded? Because yes, that's part of the picture, but the other part is that I suspected why you'd want to come back and laid an opportunity at your feet to show us you've still got it. A match where all you've got to do is win, or even make an especially good showing, to get into contention for the championship that's missing as your trophy wall centerpiece. I didn't ask you why you were here because I'm just a dumb girl, darling. I did it because as much as I can make deductions like that all day, they'll always be secondary speculation to letting you show me-- all of us--
An arm goes out, acknowledging the audience despite that eye-locked stare not breaking, and this pleases them.
EDEN DUBOIS:
Who you are. Do you still have it? And how do you handle confrontation? Do you want to hit me right now? Do keep in mind that I'm half your size and not hard to beat up, but I do sign the whole security team's paychecks. Are you going to dole out another deprecating endearment instead? Or... will you do what really matters and show us all in the ring tonight? I get that you don't care about pleasing these people, or probably even me, but it does get you closest to your own goals, doesn't it.
As Eden began to speak her mind and verbally chew him out, Devin nonchalantly movs himself to a nearby corner, simply leaning over it with his arms draped over the top rope. His demeanor shows he was not intimidated by her words, but he is a smart man, and she makes a few good points. When she is finally done, he doesn't move from the corner, but still holds his hands up, slightly looking away.
DEVIN COPELAND:
Calm it down, Fox and Friends. You're heard. My bad.
He pushes himself off the turnbuckle by his shoulders and moves forward in a laid back way, showing no hostility in his movements.
DEVIN COPELAND:
I'm not intimidated by you, Eden. And I won't pretend to be. But I like your cut. You've got some massive cojones, as you should. I know when I gotta play nice. And I'll play nice, for now. Getting back to matters at hand, that contender you said you booked me against tonight... what was his name again?
Devin kinda crosses his arms and legs, holding an elbow up with his free hand and tapping the microphone against the side of his head, as if contemplating who she said.
DEVIN COPELAND:
Jacob Striker? Riiiiight. "The Cronenburg of Clotheslines". The man who puts himself out as being more of an edge lord than I could've ever portrayed myself to be back in the day.
He chuckles to his own comment, much to the dismay of the crowd. He turns his attention away from Eden, putting his full attention to the hard camera.
DEVIN COPELAND:
Listen here, Striker. I know a copycat Devin when I see one. And you have made it waaaaay too obvious that you're trying to be another me. Whether you want to admit it or not, what you are now is what I used to be. When I was a teenager.
Devin makes his way over to the ropes closest to the hard camera, leaning himself by his arms against the top rope with the microphone neatly placed by his mouth.
DEVIN COPELAND:
You may be in the world title picture right now, but you've been nothing but a placeholder for a spot that rightfully belongs to me. You walk a path that would make Mark Calaway's head spin from the similarities and mannerisms, but you can thank Eden for your career getting an abrupt end like you're Kurt Cobain and she's Courtney Love.
While the crowd hates Copeland with a passion, a few audible gasps and 'ooooh's could be heard coming from their mouths. Devin, being who he is, simply shrugs his shoulders with the slightest formation of a smile on his face.
DEVIN COPELAND:
You can talk about my ring rust all you want, and how you're gonna kick my ass to New York and back, and how I'm gonna further your - yada yada yada. Get some original material there, Sephiroth. You're not the first person to use me as a catapult for their own careers, and you won't be the last. But as long as I'm standing in this ring, I own this bitch. And no Gerard Way acting ass clown with slits on his wrists and daddy issues is gonna take my crown away from me.
Devin turns his attention to Eden in the center of the ring, not moving his body but simply his head.
DEVIN COPELAND:
Nice talking with ya, boss. I'm sure we will be speaking again. Just remember: what happens in that ring tonight with one of your world title contenders? That's on your hands.
With that said, Devin drops the microphone to the arena floor below him, continuing to lock eyes with his new boss as "All the Same" returns to playing over the speaker system, the crowd in unison raining Devin down with unadulterated hate.
After locking eyes for a few seconds, the Epitome of Divinity drops down to the mat and rolls out of the ring on the ramp side, walking backwards up the ramp, tauntingly waving to Eden in the process. We cut to brief commercial.
After ring entrances and introductions, we see that the referee is signaling for the bell as Abby and Gothica lock up. After a few moments of struggle, Abby locks down Gothica with a Armbar/Grounded Hammerlock. Then after a bit more of lock ups and whatnot, Abby whips Gothica into the corner, then as Abby tries to grab Gothica and perform a move, Hellion tries to interfere. Chucky runs over and grabs Hellion by the leg and makes him come down. After a few moments of fighting, Chucky hits the Mission Statement 2K19 in order to invalidate Hellion's interference.
Then we turn back to Gothica trying to grab Abby but Abby counters it after by kicking her away before springing off the adjacent ropes with a Springboard Crossbody. Abby lands on Gothica and the referee makes the count but she only gets a two count. Abby looks at the referee like that should have been three. Abby gets a sinister look onto her face when she proceeds to pick up Gothica and drop her with her variation of the Cradle DDT. She goes to cover Gothica but as the referee makes the count, Abby lifts Gothica up and motions she is here to make a point. Then she lets Gothica stand up for a few moments before charging towards her and locking in Psycho (Tilt-A-Whirl Dragon Sleeper.) The referee goes to check to see if Gothica is conscious and after Gothica's arm drops three times, the referee signals for the bell and declares Abby the winner.
WINNER VIA SUBMISSION: Abby Evans
The camera shows Kirsty Mascara entering a locker room.
THE ENTITY | KIRSTY MASCARA:
I hear a secret.
She walks up to a locker.
THE ENTITY | KIRSTY MASCARA:
What’s this?
The camera zooms in on the locker and shows a note on it. Kirsty Mascara grabs the note and begins to read it.
THE ENTITY | KIRSTY MASCARA:
“We need to talk, please come home.” Someone at home wants to talk to me? Due to the fact that there’s never been anything for me at home, I’m not sure how I feel about this message, so I need a bit of time to think about how I feel about this. With that said I do however know how I feel about the fact that I’ve got a match against Caleb Foster soon. I’m excited about the opportunity to face him and I know for a fact that if I defeat it then it’ll open a lot of doors for me in the future.
Kirsty Mascara begins to walk to the door of the locker room as the camera fades.
After ring entrances and introductions, we see that the referee is signaling for the bell as Kirsty and Caleb lock up. Kirsty and Caleb exchange locks ups, rest holds, and whatnot before a series of one counts occur between the two of them. Then after a few moments, Caleb attempts a Pele Kick when Kirsty catches it and proceeds to twist Caleb around and drop him with a Dragon Screw. As this happens, Caleb grabs his leg/knee area; Kirsty sees blood in water and starts to drop repeated elbows to Caleb's now injured leg.
After a few moments of this, Kirsty picks up Caleb and whips him into the ropes. As Kirsty goes to strike him with what appears to be a dropkick, Caleb manages to land a Discus Clothesline. But because of the apparent damage to his leg, he can't really follow up. As he goes to grab Kirsty, she suddenly pops back with a Japanese Arm Drag which launches Caleb into the corner. Then she quickly follows that up with a Monkey Flip from the corner to launch Caleb across the ring. Then after a few moments, Caleb has gotten up and attempts a comeback but is met with resistance and a few well-placed kicks to the leg to keep him at bay. Then as Caleb attempts to hit another Discus Clothesline, Kirsty ducks it and hits him with her version of the Inverted DDT. Then she signals for the end, as she climbs to the top rope and comes crashing down onto him with her version of a Tope Rope Knee Drop. After a few moments, the referee makes the count and declares Kirsty the winner.
WINNER VIA PINFALL: Kirsty Mascara
The scene comes up backstage for tonight's show, where Nakita Niles is sitting down on a steel chair. The camera is in front of her and you see her wearing her ring gear. She has a bandage on her head after reopening the stitches from her match from Ally. She moves back and forth. She looks down at the ground and nods. She knows that she can’t be distracted by anything. She knows that she has to keep her mind on the task at hand. If she wants to make something of herself in the WWH, she can’t think of anything else.
NAKITA NILES:
I failed against Striker to get a chance to fight for the world title, but you know what? That’s fine by me. Even after a loss, I’ll hold my head up high and carry on. Some people would hold their heads down, but not me. No matter how bad things get, I won’t stop, and I won’t quit. You can knock me down, but I’m going to get right back up.
I can sit here and complain about the outcome, but I’m not. I don’t need to complain because it means nothing. Striker, I can promise you that things are going to get worse for you. I promise you that you’re not going to get the belt. I just figured I got that off my chest. But onto you, Thomas. You think you’re so bad, right? I honestly don’t know why you think that when you failed in Battle Royal. Sure, you were one of the last ones, but that means nothing if you couldn’t win, right? I think you know what I mean.
She stands up and walks towards the wall, where she rests her back against it. The camera followed her. She tilts her head and gives off a small smile.
NAKITA NILES:
Thomas, there’s nothing to distract me from tonight. I’m primed and focused on the task at hand of beating you. How will it happen? Who knows, honestly? But when we step into that ring, you better be ready. Cause I can assure you that I’m ready for you. You may have Gibson on your side for tonight, but that won’t stop me. As you can tell, I have this bandage on my head. I had stitches put in there where it came out while I was training. But I’m still here fighting, Thomas. Fighting for something that I believe in. Tonight, what do you believe in? Hmm? It doesn’t matter what you believe in at this point, because I’m going to hurt you and show the world why I am the soldier queen.
She walks away as the camera fades towards the ring awaiting for the next match.
After entrances and ring announcements Jenny and Akari shake hands. They tie-up and Akari gets the early advantage by turning it into a headlock. Jenny punches Akari and sends her to the ropes. Akari runs to the ropes then runs to Jenny who punches Akari in the gut and follows it with a swinging neckbreaker. Jenny stands up and goes to a corner and climbs onto it. Jenny goes for a 450 splash and lands on Jenny. Akari pins Jenny for a two count.
Jenny tries to force Akari up but Akari hits some shots to the gut. Akari stands up and chops Jenny. Akari lifts Jenny up and suplexes her. Akari stands up and runs to the corner and climbs to the top rope. Jenny stands up and Akari jumps off of the top and hits a diving crossbody. Akari pins Jenny but only gets a two count.
Akari stands up and runs to a corner. Jenny goes onto one knee and Akari runs and shining wizards Jenny. Akari goes for a pin but Jenny kicks out at two. Akari tries to force Jenny up but Jenny breaks free by punching Akari in the gut. Jenny stands up and grabs Akari and snap DDTs her. Both are down.
At the count of nine, both wrestlers stand up and trade punches. Akari chops Jenny, making her walk backwards to the ropes. Jenny hits the ropes and walks to Akari, who dropkicks her. Akari stands up while Jenny falls out of the ring. Jenny stands up and Akari runs to the ropes and suicide dives Jenny.
The ref reaches eight and Akari enters the ring. At nine Jenny enters the ring. Akari walks over to Jenny who punches her in the gut forcing her to turn around and bend over. Jenny stands up and grabs Akari and reverse DDTs her. Jenny stands up and runs to Akari and Goomba Stomp Curb Stomps Akari. Jenny stands up and looks down at Akari, who is struggling to stand up. Akari gets up and Jenny grabs Akari and does a Miracle Cutter Osaka Street Cutter. Jenny goes for the pin and the ref counts three.
WINNER VIA PINFALL: Jenny Kay
The camera shows Sarah Lynn backstage in a locker room.
THE FATE CHANGER | SARAH LYNN:
First of all, I want to say that I was too busy training for my match that I didn’t watch Kirsty’s match, so I don’t know if I won our bet yet; however that’s okay because everybody knows that if it’s not won tonight then it will be soon. Kirsty can only go so long until she feels the pressure. She’s not a big game hunter like I am.
Sarah Lynn smiles.
THE FATE CHANGER | SARAH LYNN:
Speaking of the big game coming up tonight, I face both Aaron and Darcie. A victory for me will continue to prove my point that I am a champion waiting to happen, and soon it really will happen. With that said, I want to bring up Skylar. Skylar, I’ll be watching what you’ve got to say tonight, because of the fact that it decides what championship that I compete for in the future. The only thing that I’m going to say is it doesn’t matter who you pick, because I know for a fact that I can defeat either of them, and tonight I will back up those words.
The camera fades.
The three competitors make their way to the ring, ready for the triple threat match. Aaron Jones, the Underground Champion, enters first, his face a mask of contempt as he glares at the cheering fans. Darcie Daniels follows, smirking arrogantly as she struts down the ramp, her legal briefcase in hand. Sarah Lynn, the bounty hunter, is the last to arrive, her eyes scanning the arena as she climbs through the ropes.
The bell rings, and the match is underway. Sarah Lynn makes the first move, launching herself at Darcie Daniels with a flying cross body, sending the lawyer crashing to the mat. Aaron Jones watches from the corner, biding his time.
As Sarah gets to her feet, Darcie sneaks up behind her and hits her with a sharp elbow to the back of the head. Sarah staggers forward, and Darcie follows up with a snap suplex, driving her opponent into the canvas.
Aaron Jones sees his opportunity and charges at Darcie, clotheslining her to the ground. He grabs her by the hair, pulling her up and slamming her head into the turnbuckle. Darcie slumps to the mat, and Aaron turns his attention to Sarah.
Sarah is back on her feet and ready to fight. She charges at Aaron, hitting him with a dropkick that sends him stumbling back. She follows up with a hurricanrana, flipping him over and slamming him to the mat.
Darcie takes advantage of the distraction and crawls over to Sarah, grabbing her by the hair and pulling her to the ground. She locks in the LeBell Lock, wrenching Sarah's arm back in a painful submission hold.
Aaron sees an opportunity and charges at Darcie, hitting her with a double underhook facebuster that breaks the hold. He turns his attention to Sarah, hitting her with a series of kicks and punches.
Sarah fights back, hitting Aaron with a neck breaker that sends him crashing to the mat. She climbs to the top rope, ready to deliver her signature moonsault. But Darcie is back on her feet, and she shoves Sarah off the turnbuckle, sending her crashing to the floor outside the ring.
With Sarah out of the way, Darcie turns her attention to Aaron, hitting him with a tilt-a-whirl backstabber. She goes for the pin, but Aaron kicks out at the last second.
Aaron gets back to his feet, his eyes blazing with anger. He hits Darcie with a series of punches and kicks, driving her back into the ropes. He grabs her by the throat, choking her with the Insanity Choke, his signature finisher.
Darcie struggles to break free, but it's no use. She's forced to tap out, and Aaron Jones is declared the winner, being handed back his dismantled Underground Championship.
As the fans cheer, despite not loving any of the wrestlers they can't help but respect the fast-paced and exciting match. Aaron celebrates in the ring, jeering at his opponents. Sarah Lynn slowly climbs back to her feet outside the ring, a fierce determination in her eyes. She knows she'll have another shot, and she'll be ready for whatever Aaron Jones throws at her next time. But does this count as losing a singles bout in her bet with Kirsty Mascara? We'll have to wait and see what the Diamond Mafia rules!
WINNER VIA SUBMISSION: Aaron Jones
The camera cuts to the backstage area where we find Jacob Striker and the Shinigami Foundation, once again already in their wrestling gear with Striker’s ring coat slung over a bit of railing in the background,
DAVID GIBSON:
Well here we are, another edition of Ascension, and the Foundation is once again at the ready to go to war here in World Wrestling Headquarters and this time it’s going to be a full on clean sweep tonight, gentlemen.
THOMAS BANE:
You know something, partner, I think that you’re taking this whole return thing a little bit too seriously at times.
DAVID GIBSON:
What can I say, Thomas? I honestly enjoy my work.
JACOB STRIKER:
At any rate, tonight is Thomas’ chance to pick up his first win against my opponent from last week in Nakita Niles. Now I want you to listen to me, Thomas. We need to keep things on schedule if we’re going to accomplish everything that we’ve set out to do here, so keep your head in the game and win tonight.
THOMAS BANE:
Not a problem, Jake. I’ve got Niles more than covered.
The “Cronenberg of Clotheslines” simply shoots Bane a serious look, at which point the Japanese man simply holds up his hands and nods.
THOMAS BANE:
My head is in the game, Jake. Trust me. I’ve got this just like you’ve got Copeland.
Jacob’s face then blossoms into a smile.
JACOB STRIKER:
Of course I’ve got this match tonight, because not only is it going to be an epic match, but it’s also going to make major bank for the company because my match tonight is going to be a real furious war…one that I’m going to enjoy immensely!
DAVID GIBSON:
You see, you two guys got this shit on lockdown.
Gibson and Bane bump knuckles together while Striker turns and gets his ring coat before turning to face the duo.
JACOB STRIKER:
Either way, let’s get out there and get things done, gentlemen.
The Foundation nods as the trio walks away as the screen fades back to ringside.
After entrances and ring announcements, Nakita and Thomas begin trading strikes. Thomas chops Nakita, knocking her down at the end of the sequence. Nakita is disoriented from her previous head injury reaggravating and, in pain, crawls to a corner and uses the ropes to pull herself up. Thomas runs to Nakita and goes for a clothesline, however Nakita moves out of the way. Nakita runs to the ropes and bounces off of them, then runs to Thomas and jumps and Tilt-a-whirl headscissors takedowns Thomas, making him roll out of the ring. Nakita stands up and runs to Thomas and runs to the ropes. Nakita jumps and suicide dives onto Thomas and both go down.
Nakita stands up and turns around, David Gibson clotheslines her, knocking her down. The ref, who saw it happen, quickly shouts at David and tells him to go to the back. Thomas re-enters the ring and watches the ref count Nakita out. Nakita enters the ring, breaking the count, and Thomas kicks her in the gut. Thomas forces Nakita up and picks her up and exploder suplexes her right back down with impact. Thomas goes for a pin, however the ref only counts a two count because Nakita kicks out.
Thomas looks at the ref, unhappy that it wasn’t a three count. Both stand up and Nakita runs to Thomas, who sidewalk slams her. Thomas goes for a pin but just a two count. Thomas stands up and shakes his head as Nakita crawls to a corner. Thomas runs to Nakita and goes for a splash, however Nakita moves out of the way. Nakita runs to Thomas and high knees him.
In pain, Thomas goes down. Nakita runs and climbs to the top rope. Thomas stands up and Nakita jumps and moonsaults Thomas. With both combatants down the ref begins to count. They get onto their knees and begin to trade punches. They both stand up and continue to trade punches. They both punch the other, knocking both down,and in pain they both fall out of the ring. The ref begins to count and reaches ten.
WINNER: Double Count Out
OFFSCREEN:
Always nice to see a familiar wickedly sadistic face.
Christy turns and smiles at Omar Riordan.
CHRISTY WINTERS:
I can say the same.
OMAR RIORDAN:
Anyway, we can continue the pleasantries later; tonight you make your ring debut against Jamie Austin, and based on your past in the asylum I’m thinking you have something very wicked planned for Ms. Austin.
CHRISTY WINTERS:
These fans here tonight aren’t expecting me to go out there and exchange wrestling holds with Jamie Austin, they're expecting me to cave her face in with my fist.
OMAR RIORDAN:
Dastardly.
CHRISTY WINTERS:
You would know about that. Omar, I’m willing to bet that some of these fans tonight are the same blood thirsty animals that used to attended the matches at the asylum, or many they’re a bunch of soft pussies who are hoping that Jamie’s uncle shows to make them say 'what, what, what' and make themselves look like complete idiots, or have him tell them what the bottom line is. Tonight maybe that retiree has-been shows up here to watch his niece get her ass kicked. Jamie, I’m not here to play games or act nice, I’m here to do what I do best, make my opponents suffer. Jamie, you may have won a title shot last week.
Christy smirks in the camera.
CHRISTY WINTERS:
But wouldn't it be a shame if somehow you were never able to get that title match you’ve earned. I’m a vicious psychotic lunatic, from what I’ve been told, and tonight people will get what they’ve paid to see: for the sadistic bitch from Sanatorium go bat shit crazy. Jamie, sadly you're a lamb about to be slaughtered on live television, and that’s the bottom line, because I said so. Always a pleasure, Omar.
Christy and Omar smile wickedly as the camera fades.
Christy and Jamie are standing in the ring as the ref signals for the bell. The two start to circle each other before locking up. Christy is able to overpower Jamie easily and put her in the corner. The ref pulls her off quickly, which gives Jamie the chance to kick her gut and nail her with a hard elbow to the jaw. That staggers Christy a bit, and Austin continues with the attack. She grabs Christy and drops her with a DDT.
She covers, but Christy kicks out at the count of one. Jamie grabs her by the hair and brings her to the corner, where she hits a series of mudhole stomps to her gut. Christy takes the shots until Jamie taunts the crowd. The fans boo, and that's when Christy gets up. Jamie turns around and sees a clothesline that takes her down. Christy lays on top of her and starts to hit a series of forearm shots to her face and jaw.
She gets up and grabs her by the hair and throws her into the corner. Jamie rests her back against it as Christy moves to the other side and charges full speed at her. Jamie ducks and flings her over the top rope, which lands her on the outside.
Kayla Winters is looking down at Christy and picks her up rather quickly. Jamie stands there as Kayla puts her back inside the ring. Jamie is charged and takes her out of the ring again with a shotgun front dropkick. Kayla starts to yell at Christy to tell her to get up. Jamie climbs the corner as Christy stands up. She then flies off the top turnbuckle with a crossbody, but Christy is able to grab her. She then brings her to the ring and hits her with a scoop slam to the outside of the ring. Christy gets in the ring as the ref starts to count Jamie out.
He is at eight as Jamie gets off the ground and enters the ring. Christy grabs her by the hair and brings her to the corner. She starts raining lefts and rights to Jamie's head. Jamie continues to take the shots until Jamie blocks one of the shots. She grabs the head of Christy and hits her with a head butt. Christy moves back as the ref checks up on her. Jamie moves forward, but Kayla grabs her hair and slams her face-first into the mat.
Christy walks towards her as Kayla gets down from the apron. She picks up Jamie and throws her into the corner. She runs and hits her with a running back elbow to her face. Jamie takes the shot, which brings her out, and Christy hits a snap suplex. She covers, but Jamie kicks out a two-and-a-half. Christy grabs Jamie again and sets to finish the match off. She hits her in the gut and has the position for Severe Brain Damage. But Jamie is able to lift her and drops her with a back body drop. Jamie gets in the corner and tells Christy to get up. Christy gets up, and Jamie rushes in to hit her with a bone shattering spear. Christy is down on the mat as Jamie climbs the top rope and looks down to go for her SACRIFICED LOVE (frog splash), but Kayla once again interferes and hits her in the back with a steel chair. The ref doesn't see it. That gives Christy enough time to get up and put her between her legs again and hits SEVERE BRAIN DAMAGE (Spike piledriver) and the referee awards Winters the win.
WINNER VIA PINFALL: Christy Winters
The scene comes back from commercials, up in the middle of the ring, where everyone is ready for the next match. But before that, God of War by Dirty Wormz ft Tech N9ne and Krizz Kaliko begin to play over the P.A System.
That's when fireblast pyro comes from the sides, and Chris Matthews comes out from the back. He’s wearing a black leather jacket, loose-fitting jeans, black sneakers, and black tinted shades on his face. He stands there with the International Championship on his shoulder.
LILAH HURST:
On his way to the ring, he’s the International Champion, CHRIS MATTHEWS!
He starts to walk off the stage and head down the ramp. He gets to the side of the ring before climbing up and entering the ring.
GIA VAN ZANT:
On the first Ascension, Chris was able to beat Aaron Jones in what was a slugfest.
GWENDOLYN BLACK:
Elbow strike after elbow strike to Chris' face did some damage. But he was able to hit his Krav Maga to the face of Aaron Jones all in one swift motion. After Jones was down, Chris hit the Reign of Thunder, which gave him the victory.
His music continues to play until he grabs a mic and the music fades. Chris gets in the middle of the ring and looks around at the fans.
CHRIS MATTHEWS
Last Ascension, you all see me beat Aaron Jones. But like the little bitch that he is, he decided to erase it. Guess he thought he was smart, but he’s as I always said he was, a bitch ass ho. He should’ve stayed in that cell, but he didn’t. But that doesn’t matter to me, at all. I have something more important to talk about. And that’s Skylar Carson, who won the Battle Royal.
The fans began to cheer as Chris lowered his hand. He heard the fans cheer for Carson and nod.
CHRIS MATTHEWS
She deserves all the praise for what she did in that match, but later today, she has to pick who she’s going to face. Will she pick me or Aaron Jones? Who knows? But you know what? Skylar, when you decide who you want to pick, I want you to make sure it’s the right one.
He walked towards the rope and leaned forward as he continued to speak to the fans.
CHRIS MATTHEWS
I don’t care if it’s you or Sarah Lynn. Either way, one of you is going down hard. 'Cause nobody is going to take my belt. If either one of you thinks you have what it takes to beat me, bring it. 'Cause I’m not going down easy.
He smiles and drops the mic as his music hits. He walks backward and holds his championship up as the scene fades to backstage.
Backstage at an interview station stands Eden, sans any of the interviewers. The screen behind her shows the Ascension logo on a loop.
EDEN DUBOIS:
Where is he...
Onstaff interviewer Zane Mulholland sidles onscreen and proffers a small stack of legal-sized papers. Eden takes it, skimming the top page.
EDEN DUBOIS:
An offer... to buy... the Sanatorium?! Since when is that property even for sale? Was this you--
She points an accusatory finger at Zane, whose hands come up in a don't-shoot type posture.
ZANE MULHOLLAND:
I did nothing. I know nothing. My property flipping and landlording was totally a side gig and waaaay smaller beans than that.
EDEN DUBOIS:
I hope you haven't been around beans. Didn't you poop on a commentary desk down in Sanatorium?
ZANE MULHOLLAND:
I have no memory of such a thing. Didn't you turn into a rampaging monster after being brought back from the dead?
EDEN DUBOIS:
Nope, must've both been crazy acid dreams. Blame Doctor Sly and his pharmaceutical experimentations.
ZANE MULHOLLAND:
Roger that. Nice chat, though. Shall I expect official rejection paperwork?
Eden swipes the pen hiding in the breast pocket of his especially loud purple-and-green almost-zoot suit and scrawls NO right in the middle of the paper. After a beat, she adds HELL right above it, then hands him the pen back.
EDEN DUBOIS:
I'm going to show this to our expected friend, then you can have it back to send on to them.
ZANE MULHOLLAND:
Speaking of!
He points urgently behind her.
GARY BLACK:
You rang, my dear Eden? Sorry for the delay. Had to deal with land rights and building coding for the Isle Training Center.
EDEN DUBOIS:
Our announcement? Show's almost over here. Oh, speaking of land rights--
She hands him the paper, apparently a purchase offer for the Sanatorium facilities, to him.
EDEN DUBOIS:
Took the liberty of responding already since I sure know I'm not on Team Sell It and yeah, don't even think we could parcel off such a legally controversial part of the property this soon even if we wanted to. Especially not without a unanimous vote for it.
Gary looks it over. He definitely sees the giant HELL NO! Then he continues looking over the legal documentation.
GARY BLACK:
I think you spoke my answer perfectly onto this document. And even if we could, why would we? I definitely wouldn’t sell to someone like Miss Winters. She needs to learn a thing or two about not only business etiquette but also ownership law. Are you needing this back or can I burn it?
EDEN DUBOIS:
Well, I figured for etiquette's sake we'd need to be sending it back to her as our official on-paper response.
GARY BLACK:
I guess that would be proper. Oh, and I had an interesting thought cross my mind while I was doing the aforementioned business matters.
EDEN DUBOIS:
Oh? What's that? Or should we talk after the announcement? Airtime's tickin'.
GARY BLACK:
I was thinking of calling a certain monster in for some airtime on the next show. Perhaps teaming up with a certain tall lady we have employed here.
Eden nods agreeably.
EDEN DUBOIS:
Could tie into some ideas I had for the next card. But let's keep the hashing out of booking off live television, shall we?
GARY BLACK:
Understandable, my dear. But shall we express this announcement in greater detail now that both owners are here? Because I have a feeling I know what it entails.
EDEN DUBOIS:
I'd certainly hope so.
She turns towards the cameras, putting on a winning smile.
EDEN DUBOIS:
Gary Black and I would like to formally mark the first pay-per-view megashow back for the Ascension era-- it will fall after Ascension 5.
GARY BLACK:
Ladies and gentlemen that show shall be called Mankind Divided! I am certain all the shows leading up to that will be action-packed and thrilling. So be prepared for some worthwhile matchups and title challenges as well.
EDEN DUBOIS:
Indeed-- all leading up to the title matches that were set in place on the very first Ascension at Mankind Divided. So Jamie Austin, Jacob Striker, Skylar Carsons, and Sarah Lynn had best be blazing their trails to their hoped final destinations. The rest of you, be assured there'll be plenty to do, we're watching you carefully!
GARY BLACK:
Definitely true Eden. But for now, WWH universe, you will need to wait in anticipation to see what fun we have next for you all.
We fade back from backstage to the ring. After quite distinguished entrances, Devin Copeland and Jacob Striker stare each other down with all the stakes dangling like Damocles' sword as the crowd stirs; finally they start to circle each other. They lock up and Devin, with his veteran experience, brings Striker to the corner. It's at that corner where he lays down a series of lefts and rights to the head and body of Striker. He stops as Striker tries to regain his composure. Copeland grabs Striker and throws him over the top rope, and lands him on the outside. Copeland gets out of the ring, picks him up, and whips him against the crowd barricade back first.
Copeland then charges after him, but Striker ducks to hit a back body drop to Copeland into the crowd-- Copeland lands on the barricade. It is there where Striker uses a roundhouse kick to take Copeland down backfirst. He picks him up and brings him into the ring, where he covers quickly. But Copeland kicks out at two. He picks him up, hooks his head with one arm, and goes for a snap suplex. Devin, who is skilled, puts his feet around Striker's leg to counter and hits a vertical suplex. Copeland sits up wearily as he looks at the fans.
Copeland stands up and moves towards the corner. He ascends the turnbuckles and stands up on the top. He looks down at his opponent and tells Striker to get up. Striker obliges and Copeland jumps off with a double axe handle, but Striker hits a superkick right into Devin's jaw. Both men are down on the mat as the crowd starts to go nuts. The ref starts to count until both men are able to get to their feet at the count of nine.
Both men start to go at it with lefts and rights. Copeland is able to get the better and kicks him in the gut. Devin runs toward the ropes and bounces off to hit him with a spear. Striker is down, and Copeland hooks the leg. He is only able to get a two-and-a-half count. Copeland stands up to grab Striker by the hair. He grabs his arm and slings him into the corner, and Striker crumples against it. Copeland charges in and hits a running shoulder thrust to his midsection. Copeland stands up and hits a series of European uppercuts to his jaw. Striker takes each shot until Copeland brings him out and hits his Copeland Combination (Right-hand slap into left-hand slap into discus backhand into gut kick into drop-down uppercut).
Striker is down as Copeland looks at the crowd and shows no remorse to them. He turns around and grabs him by the hair. He puts him under his arm then picks him up and drops him with Kiss2Kill. Striker is down as Copeland covers, and at the last second, Striker kicks out. Copeland can't believe it. He picks him up again, but this time he goes for the ending. He kicks him in the gut, to which Striker bends over. Devin runs towards the ropes and comes back with his CROSSROAD KILLING, but Striker moves out of the way and hits the Age of the Fall discus clothesline. Copeland is now the one down and Striker is up. He picks up Devin and puts him in a reverse DDT position. He looks at the crowd before hitting his DEATH WARRIOR rolling cutter. He pins Copeland, but at the last second, Copeland puts his feet on the bottom rope. Striker can't believe it, as he thought he had the win. Striker stands up and grabs the ref, yelling at him. Copeland stands up as Striker turns around, and Striker gets hit with a strong roundhouse kick. That kick sends him to the outside apron.
Copeland gets out and picks him for the Death Valley Driver. He hits him right on the ring apron as both men are on the outside, exhausted and tired. The ref is up to nine and a half as both get back into the ring. Copeland is the first to his feet as he picks up Striker into a fireman's carry. He then hits a double knee gutbuster before getting up quickly and hitting a running soccer kick to the head of Striker. Copeland is getting tired until he finally grabs him and puts him under his arm. He tells the crowd it is over. He picks him up for his PARAIAH DRIVER ' 83, but Striker like lightning proves he's not as far gone as he seems or rightfully should be-- blasting Copeland with a shock counter of the DEATH WARRANT Hero's Welcome style rolling cutter. Like a flash he rolls him up in a cradle, which gets him the three count.
WINNER VIA PINFALL: Jacob Striker
Striker slides out of the ring to safety from potential retribution, sweating profusely and with several growing lumps on his face but still cackling as if it's the funniest thing he's ever done in his life. The crowd's come unglued this whole time; they might be torn when it comes to this renewed Jacob Striker, but Devin Copeland started the night by making them want him to get obliterated and the rage on his face makes them joyous. Devin slides to the ropes, leaning over the middle and pointing angrily at Striker. Camera catches a fury-laden tirade about how Copeland had him dead to rights before that trick, as we fade to commercial.
All is well within the atmosphere of the arena. The fans are still coming down from the high of the last match. The arena lights go out leaving the entire arena dark. Pitch black. Quickly the arena fills with the lights of the crowd's cell phones. The sound of rain fills the speakers while simultaneously the big screen illuminates in static. Snow. Suddenly all the lights flash quickly, followed by a rolling thunder clap explodes across the arena. As the thunder fades, a piano begins to play a light but dreary melody. The piano plays for a few moments before the arena begins to illuminate in blue spotlights. The screen flutters; the snow remains but is different. Facial features appear but they don't remain the same. It is as if a multitude of faces are appearing. The piano continues to play but the volume decreases as the harmonized voices from last show return.
We came here on the return show of the World Wrestling Headquarters. The exceptionally named Ascension. We were brought here to let you all know that there is a massive hole on this roster. It is as if you all have forgotten all about the one true SUPERSTAR of the World Wrestling Headquarters. We have given you a little bit of time. Have you figured out who we are talking about?
The voices trail off a moment, giving a dramatic pause.
It seems there is no chatter. No assumptions. No guesses. None of you in this arena tonight have any clue who we are talking about? None of you?
Another quick pause.
I guess for you morons, peons out there, we will just have to slam it right into your faces.
The arena begins to fill with a mist. All throughout the arena. The ramp. The ring. The stage.
This superstar is the one and only star that matters. The one that carries this company on their back. Represents this company everywhere they go. They stand steadfast against any and all challenges, if they deem them worthy. Which brings us to two little stars that are all giddy about having the biggest prize in this business today within their grasps. Jacob Striker. Jamie Austin. Two names that are recognized throughout the locker room here in W W H. But they are meaningless to the SUPERSTAR. Worthless. Just because the management team decided that four stars deserved number one contendership matches for the World Heavyweight Championship, without even mentioning the SUPERSTAR. The SUPERSTAR has come back to this company. Even though they have not been mentioned. Talked about. Even talked to. But once they have shown themselves, you all will realize what idiots you have proven yourselves to be. We come here and have been brought here by the SUPERSTAR. The only superstar worth television time. The big fight SUPERSTAR.
The voices trail off for a moment. The rain picks up its intensity, seemingly. One spotlight upon the stage illuminates brighter than the rest. Appearing through the mist cloud is a single gloved hand can be seen holding up the World Wrestling Headquarters' World Heavyweight Championship.
We bring to you, the ultimate, the one and only, SUPERSTAR that matters. They are there. They are here. They are everywhere you think they couldn't be. Their reign will continue...
The voices trail off. The piano melody builds again as the cameras all focus on the hand holding the championship belt. All the arena lights flash brightly then go dark again. A clap of thunder rolls through the arena. Suddenly the rain, piano, the voices, the screen, and mist all disappear. The arena lights return to normal without actually revealing the one attached to that gloved hand that was holding the World Heavyweight Championship.
We fade to a splashy ad for presale tickets for Mankind Divided. It feels like whiplash after the scene we just witnessed.
We return to “Demolition Lovers” playing throughout the arena as Skylar Carsons comes out from the back dressed in a pair of ripped at the knees, light blue jeans and a black half sweater that shows off her lower abs. She has a pair of black leather, chunky heeled boots on to match the sweater, and her older brother, Oliver, is next to her with a pair of light blue jeans, a t-shirt, a jean jacket that matched his jeans, sneakers, and his sunglasses on. The young woman glances over at her brother for a moment, a smile on her face as she listens to the cheers from the crowd. Oliver gives her a small nod, and the two begin their way down the ramp and toward the ring. Giving a few high-fives on her way down the ramp, she runs and slides into the ring, getting a microphone as she waits for her brother to join her. Once he is in as well, the spunky rookie moves to the center, raising the microphone as her music dies out.
SKYLAR CARSONS:
What a show tonight, huh?! The matches were out of this world!
The cheers from the crowd grow even louder in response to what the California native is saying. Skylar lets them cheer for a few more moments before she raises the microphone again.
SKYLAR CARSONS:
Now at the first Ascension back, I was part of the battle royal to help determine number one contenders for the International and Underground titles. Imagine my surprise when I won, considering that was my first professional match!
The spunkiness takes over a little when the end of Skylar’s sentence comes out in a sort of squeak type of tone. The brunette visibly grimaces a little and mouths an apology to everyone over the sound. Oliver lowers his sunglasses and looks at his sister for a moment, shaking his head a little before raising the glasses back up then sliding his hands into the pocket of his jeans.
SKYLAR CARSONS:
Whoops! Sorry about that everyone, got a little excited over all of it! Now tonight, I was asked to come out at the end of the show to announce which championship I wanted to use my shot to go after. My brother, Oliver, gave me some good advice when it came to making my choice. He pointed out that I needed to play to my strengths, not try to take too big of a chance because I want to step outside of my comfort zone.
The rookie pauses for a moment, glancing over at her brother who only nods in agreement as she recounts his advice to her. There is some sporadic cheering from the fans, though they mostly seem interested in finding out who she is going to choose as her opponent. After a moment, Skylar decides to continue rather than dragging things out much longer.
SKYLAR CARSONS:
I won’t keep all of you in suspense anymore than I have to at this point. Chris Matthews and Aaron Jones would both be quite formidable people to go against in this ring, there’s no doubt about that in my mind. But…I’m not a hardcore wrestler at all, so that takes Aaron Jones and the Underground Championship out of the running for me. I’m going to listen to my brother’s advice and play to my strengths by choosing to go after Chris Matthews and his International Championship! So Mr. Matthews…I hope you’re ready for a spunky star like me because I’m coming for you and that belt!
Skylar winks at the camera as “Demolition Lovers” begins playing again, the crowd on their feet and cheering at her decision. Oliver stands in the same spot, a grin on his face as he watches his sister move around the ring to interact with the fans from it. We may have started the night with a veteran wrestler turning on an adoring audience, but we end it with an enthusiastic rookie genuinely reciprocating that love.
Extra thanks to Sarah Lynn/Kirsty Mascara, Chris Matthews/Nakita Niles/Caleb Foster, and Gary Black for selflessly matchwriting. Our triple threat match was a trial ground for Eden to test out tag teaming with ChatGPT on matchwriting, and the results came out very promising!
Many thanks also to those who wrote segments, they filled the show out into something special!