NFW Presents: WRESTLE WAR XIX Night 1 - 12/20/2022!

The pre-show opens with Darlyn Fajardo standing in the ring with her microphone in hand.

Darlyn Fajardo: Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to Wrestle War XIX! It is time for the Silver Rush Rumble!

Jim Reynolds: LET’S GOOOOOOOO!!

Nick Hanson: Traditional opener for the fifth year in a row for the biggest event of our schedule, folks!

Darlyn Fajardo: The rules are simple. Two participants will begin the match. After ninety seconds, the third participant will enter. The remaining participants will enter every sixty seconds following. There are no disqualifications and no count outs. Eliminations may occur by pinfall, submission, or when a participant is sent over the top rope with both feet touching the floor. The last remaining participant will be declared the winner and the Number One Contender to the NFW Silver Mountain Championship at Rise Of Legends in February!

There’s a cheer from the crowd inside the Wembley Arena. Darlyn Fajardo gives them a moment to show their excitement before continuing.

Nick Hanson: Our new featured supershow, starting next year, folks! Every NFW Championship will be on the line!

Jim Reynolds: I’m excited already, Nicky!

Darlyn Fajardo: And now, introducing the competitor who drew number one…


Nick Hanson: And Cass Baumer’s gonna be one of the two to start this year’s rumble off, Jim!

Jim Reynolds: Not a good place to be if you have any hopes of winning, Nicky. Not to mention she has another match against Christina Olson tomorrow night! She’s gotta be smart about how she wrestles this.

As Baumer’s entrance continues, she starts digging under the ring and already introducing an arsenal into the ring. Chairs. Kendo Sticks. Trash cans. Kitchenware (that’s under the ring for some reason.) She even slides out a couple of tables and leaves them out at ringside before removing her jacket and climbing into the ring.

Nick Hanson: Well, you could say that strategy is either really smart or really risky.

Jim Reynolds: True. She could make quick work of the opposition or it could backfire on her.

Nick Hanson: Well, this is a hardcore contest and Cass Baumer might be one of the more experienced in that field when it comes to some of the entries I’ve seen on this list.

Darlyn Fajardo: And now, introducing the competitor who drew number two…


The eerie piano keys play as the lights turn to a dim pink. As the drums begin, the doll-like figure of Pisces appears on stage, peering out from behind her mask childishly. She moves slowly down the ramp with Daedalus following at a distance. When she reaches the ring, the music has gone to the screaming chorus, which seems to contradict her peculiar calmness.

Jim Reynolds: Awwwwww nooooooo!! I’m getting outta here, Nicky!

Nick Hanson: Here comes one half of the Number One Contenders to the Tag Team Championships at number two!

Jim Reynolds: I’m surprised Kosnar’s not dragging her in a body bag out to the ring!

Nick Hanson: No, but she’s out here with Daedalus and moving like a woman on a mission.

Jim Reynolds: Excuse me, you said woman?

Nick Hanson: I…beg your pardon?

Jim Reynolds: Nicky, are we sure Pisces is even HUMAN?!

Nick Hanson: Jim, I’m now gonna assume anythi–oh, well hello there.

Jim Reynolds: The fuck are you doing here?

Daedalus: Good evening, gentlemen! I’m sure you don’t mind if I join you!

A brief cut to the commentary tables shows that Daedalus has detoured over to the commentary table, put on a headset, and is sitting down with Nick and Jim.

Jim Reynolds: Uhh…sure! Why not?

Daedalus: Ahh, Wrestle War in London. So exciting!

Jim Reynolds: Yeah…totally exciting. Hey Nicky, switch seats with me.

Daedalus: Oh come now, Mr. Reynolds. I mean you no harm. If you were in danger from us, trust me, you would certainly know!

Jim Reynolds: From us? Pisces is in the ring, who the hell are you–-JESUS FUCKING!!!!

Jim almost jumps out of his skin as, during Pisces’ walk to the ring and Daedalus settling in, Kosnar has appeared from somewhere, standing behind the commentary team. He doesn’t flinch a muscle as Jim Reynolds flails about like a startled cat and just looks at the man while Daedalus smiles with amusement.

Daedalus: Sneaky, isn’t he?

Jim Reynolds shakes off his jitters as the cameras cut back to ringside. The doll-esque half of the Astro Creeps comes sliding into the ring as she reaches ringside and wastes no time, going right at Cass Baumer! Among the two referees at ringside, Boxcar Jones calls for the bell to be rung. Can’t understand what he’s saying but the timekeeper understands the hand motions…sorta.


Right out the gate, Baumer swings with a kendo stick but Pisces ducks and gives her the slip. Baumer spins around right into a series of rights by Pisces, one after another after another. Baumer catches one in her hand finally and Pisces hits her with a kick to the midsection. She runs the ropes and comes back for a Lou Thesz Press but Baumer catches her by the arm and sends her across the mat with an arm drag. Pisces stumbles up against the ropes and Baumer runs in clotheslining her over the top rope BUT Pisces hangs onto the top rope and finds her footing on the apron. Baumer runs in to knock her off but Pisces throws her shoulder through the top and middle rope and nails Baumer in the ribs. Baumer staggers back and Pisces comes in for a Springboard Double Axe Handle but Baumer pops up off of the mat and catches her with a Gamengiri right out of the air!

Nick Hanson: WHOOOOAOAAAA-HO-HO-HOOOOOOOO!!!

Jim Reynolds: GODDAMN!!!!

Crowd: HO-LY SHIT! HO-LY SHIT! HO-LY SHIT! HO-LY SHIT! HO-LY SHIT! HO-LY SHIT! HO-LY SHIT! HO-LY SHIT!

Barely a minute into the match and Baumer and Pisces have already rocked each other! Baumer crawls over and pushes Pisces, who’s sitting up with stars in her eyes, down to the mat and hooks the leg. Referee Priscilla Mayer slides into the ring for the count!



Daedalus: Impressive athleticism but not enough, Baumer!

Pisces fires the shoulder up and Baumer sits back on her knees before getting to her feet. She picks up one of the chairs she tossed into the ring and sets it up in the center of the mat as Pisces pulls herself up on the ropes.

Jim Reynolds: The fuck is Cass doing?

Nick Hanson: Hahaha, good question. She can get a little crazy sometimes!

Daedalus: Call it a fool’s errand. Just you watch.

As Pisces pulls herself up on the ropes, Cass hits the other side, dashes, and uses the chair like a springboard to get some air, looking for a flying forearm but Pisces moves out of the way! Cass hits the top rope and almost goes over but she gets her feet back on the mat. As she stumbles back, however, Pisces grabs her around the head and hits a reverse Neckbreaker right across the unfolded chair, denting the seat just as the timer starts!

Crowd: OHHHHHHHHHHHH!!

Daedalus: Now, what did I tell you?

Jim Reynolds: Well, never say that Cass isn’t hard-headed!


Jim Reynolds: WOO DOGGY, YEE YEE!!

Nick Hanson: I’m sensing heavy sarcasm in your voice, Jim.

Jim Reynolds: Me? Sarcastic? Nawwwww!!!

Nick Hanson: Well, here comes a member of the roster a little all too familiar with one of the competitors already in the ring and we might see– yup! Here we go!

Daedalus: We do so love these types of reunions. Watch this.

Inside the ring, Pisces is choking Baumer with that chair but Shawn Worley makes it into the ring, blindsides her with a forearm, and starts rocking her with lefts and rights. Shawn gets her stomped down into the corner and starts kicking a mudhole before he turns back to Cass Baumer and offers a quick check out of good sportsmanship. Pisces pulls herself up to her feet but Shawn sees it and is right back on her. He calls for Baumer for an assist and whips Pisces towards the Karori Warrior. Baumer goes for a Spinning Back Elbow but Pisces ducks and makes it to the opposite corner. Baumer comes running in but Pisces hits an up and over, sending Baumer crashing into the corner herself. She quickly grabs Baumer by the arm and Irish Whips her into a flying bicycle knee from Shawn that was meant for Pisces. Shawn has a second to react to what he did before Pisces moves in and kicks him low beneath the belt.

Daedalus: Brilliant!!

Nick Hanson: Awwwww, low blow!

Jim Reynolds: No disqualification, Nicky!

Pisces capitalizes and takes advantage of the new elimination option, throwing Shawn over the top rope and to the floor! She grabs the ropes and shrieks triumphantly.

Nick Hanson: WHOA, LOOK OUT!!!!

Jim Reynolds: ALREADY?! I WASN'T EXPECTING THAT!!!!!

Darlyn Fajardo: SHAWN WORLEY IS ELIMINATED!

Pisces is feeling the fire now. So much so that she backs away from the ropes, arms spread with her fists clenched and when she turns around, Baumer NAILS her with the Bleeding Edge, coming off that chair again! Cover!


Nick Hanson: Kickout AGAIN by Pisces!!

Daedalus: Desperation will get you nowhere against either Pisces or Kosnar. Cass Baumer would do well to learn that.

Jim Reynolds: And that’s another sixty seconds up!


Jim Reynolds: Whooooaaaaaaa Mama, here we go!!

Zoey doesn’t exactly walk out of the tunnel so much as a gust of purple smoke fills the entryway and as it starts to thin, she seems to just have appeared there to a warm pop from the London crowd. She makes her way to the ring, patiently but with purpose as Baumer and Pisces continue to fight for an elimination. Zoey enters the ring and the clock starts from 60 again. She pulls Pisces off of Baumer and looks for a superkick but Pisces ducks. Zoey almost nails Baumer but curls her leg in, drops it, and in one swift motion, whips her head around and catches Pisces with a superkick from her other leg that drops the Doll of the Astro Creeps like a doornail! Zoey turns back to Baumer and Baumer’s not sure if she’s friend or foe at this particular moment. We’re not sure either as Zoey lingers on Baumer for a second before turning back to Pisces who’s picking herself up again. Zoey picks up a kendo stick and starts feeding Pisces some loud, stiff shots across the back with it, working her toward the ropes.

Nick Hanson: Pisces has taken a lot in this match already but she’s like a little tank, Jim!

Jim Reynolds: Hey, not all dolls are fragile! She can take a beating as well as she dishes it out!

Zoey shoots for another kendo stick shot but Pisces slips to the side and the kendo stick bounces off the ropes and right back into Zoey’s face. Pisces rolls out of the ring underneath the bottom rope - still legal - and grabs one of the tables that Cass Baumer pulled out earlier and slides it into the ring. The crowd might normally boo her and her associates but they’re cheering for whatever Pisces has planned because…well…fucking tables!! Pisces crawls back into the ring and picks up a baking sheet just as Zoey shakes off the buzz from that kendo stick to the face. She turns around and Pisces kisses her across the top of the head with the baking pan! Baumer runs out of the corner and Pisces nails her in the stomach so hard it looks like she’s trying to impale her with it before she just wracks Baumer across the back of the head with the pan. Pisces discards the baking sheet and starts setting the table up.

Daedalus: It’s that underestimation from the roster why Pisces and Kosnar have yet to even be pinned in NFW, gentlemen. I said we were going to dominate this brand and as you can see, we most certainly are! Before Spring ends next year, the Astro Creeps will have not one, but two NFW championships to their name!


THE CROWD GOES ABSOLUTELY WILD AT THE FAMILIAR MUSIC!!!!!

Nick Hanson: WHAT?!

Jim Reynolds: ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!

Nick Hanson: NO WAY!!!

Daedalus: Am I supposed to be as wowed as you both are?

Jim Reynolds: THE HIGH FLYING FINN IS IN LONDON!!!

Nick Hanson: TAHTI SALVATORE IS HERE AT WRESTLE WAR!!!!!

Daedalus: Well please, Mrs. Salvatore. Introduce yourself to Pisces. She’s waiting as everyone else in the ring is off their feet!

The Wembley Arena is on their feet as Tahti Kuu bursts out of the tunnel to a deafening reception. She relishes in the warm welcome, smiling through the fight to keep her tears back. Before too long, she makes her way down the aisle, rushing to the ring to join the fray. Inside the ring, Pisces is fighting to get Baumer onto the table when she spins around to find Tahti has climbed to the top turnbuckle and is entering the match with a big missile dropkick! Pisces slams into the table as Baumer rolls off of it and Pisces rolls over it and onto the other side, tipping it over. Meanwhile, Zoey Madigan-Star makes it back to her feet and is the first to fully take in the return of Tahti Salvatore. London goes nuts for this and the two circle around the mat and lock up, collar and elbow. Zoey twists Salvatore’s arm around and Salvatore rolls across the mat, reversing the tension and pulling Zoey into an armdrag. Zoey rolls across the mat, up to her feet, and charges back at her. Salvatore hits a hip toss, planting Zoey on the mat then runs the ropes and goes for a Rolling Senton. However, Zoey rolls to the side, causing Salvatore to hit the canvas on her back, and yet she rolls up onto her feet. Zoey comes in for a step-up enzuigiri which Salvatore ducks, causing Zoey to land on her hands and knees. Salvatore goes for a shoot kick to the back of the head but Zoey dips forward, forcing Salvatore into a spin. As the Finnish Beauty spins back around, Zoey pops up off of the mat with a big dropkick that knocks her back on her ass and both women roll up to their feet. They stop for a staredown and a round of applause from the crowd as Zoey grins and mouths “Nice to see you again.” Salvatore smirks and nods with a “You too!” Meanwhile, Cass and Pisces have wound up outside of the ring, still technically legal as they blast each other with hard shots.


Nick Hanson: OOH-RAH!! HERE COMES THE DEVIL GUARD, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!!!

Jim Reynolds: Destiny’s Robert Marino!! Let’s go!!!

Daedalus: Hmm. Devil Guard you say? We’ll see if Mr. Marino is prepared to experience true Hell, gentlemen.

Robert Marino, accompanied by Kaede Tanabe comes out of the tunnel, storming towards the ring with his girlfriend and manager moving fast to keep up with him. He removes his dog tags, planting a kiss to them before he hands them to Kaede and, at her insistence, he makes a break for the ring! Marino slides in under the bottom rope and springs to his feet. Zoey Madigan-Star and Tahti Salvatore break from their technical contest and make a mad rush for him. He slips under a double clothesline attempt, pivots, and levels Zoey with a discus clothesline of his own. Salvatore narrowly escapes being mowed down herself but she comes off of the ropes from beside Marino only for the former Marine to snatch her off of the mat, spin out and drive her into the canvas with a Spinebuster! Marino pops to his feet, pounding his chest with one fist to the roaring crowd.

Nick Hanson: Robert Marino coming in hot, folks!

From outside the ring, Cass Baumer comes in and surveys the instant damage Marino’s caused. She nods in approval and motions to the man, suggesting they go a round. Marino smirks and motions for her to bring it on but before they can go for a lockup. Pisces is back in the ring and sends a folded chair flying into the side of Marino’s head. He stumbles into the corner and she makes a rush for him. Baumer goes to yank her off but Pisces turns and rakes the eyes then leans in to bite the forehead of the Karori Warrior. Baumer manages to tear herself away, holding her forehead where we see the first specks of red in this match. Pisces has bitten Baumer’s forehead clean open!

Jim Reynolds: What the hell is wrong with that woman, Daedalus?!

Daedalus: Wrong? Haha, whatever do you mean, Mr. Reynolds?

Nick Hanson: One half of the Number One Contenders to the Tag Team Championships has tasted blood tonight!

Daedalus: Delicious!

Pisces turns back around to bring her attention onto Robert Marino who’s right there in her face, grabbing her in a bearhug with her arms pinned to the side. Pisces actually looks a little surprised as Marino shakes his head at her, insinuating the fucked up, before he hits an Overhead Belly to Belly Suplex, just dumping her into the corner turnbuckles! Marino gets to his feet only to be caught from the side by Zoey Madigan-Star and those two start trading off. Baumer wipes her forehead, sees her own blood, and slowly looks up with the look in her eyes changing. Even the crowd notices it and makes an ominous “oooooooooh” sound as she slowly turns around to where Pisces is working to right herself up in the corner. She makes it up to one knee before Baumer points a gun hand at her, lets out a feral yell, and charges in like a bat out of hell, leaping towards the Astro Creep. BLEEDING EDGE (Step Up Penalty Kick) to Pisces!!!!! She goes crashing back against the turnbuckle. Meanwhile, Baumer goes tumbling over the top rope but catches herself on the apron! Tahiti Salvatore comes running in for the elimination but Baumer grips the rope and catches her with an assisted enzuigiri. Salvatore stumbles back and Baumer re-enters the ring. With Salvatore dazed, Baumer rushes in and nails her with the Fact Check (Reverse Somersault DDT)! Baumer sits up on her knees, flipping her hair back, blood streaming down her face, and just screams at the top of her lungs with rage.

Nick Hanson: I told you this was her territory! Cass Baumer lives, breathes, and bleeds Hardcore wrestling!


Jim Reynolds: WHAT?!

Nick Hanson: Another surprise entry?!

As “Killer Queen” by Queen hits, XIX Wrestling’s Eden Sterling makes her way to the ring, leaving those already in the match a little stunned. There’s a devilish little smirk on her face as she carries herself confidently to the ring and climbs up onto the apron. Cass Baumer’s the first one to go for her, not even waiting for her to get through the ropes but as she charges, Sterling leans back, holding the ropes to stay on the apron then yanks herself forward, rocking her with a headbutt. Sterling enters the ring and immediately grabs Tahti Salvatore who’s back on her feet after that Fact Check from Baumer. Sterling lifts her up across her shoulders into a Fireman’s Carry and delivers the “Killer Instinct” (Firemen’s Carry Neckbreaker Onto Knee)! She covers! Senior Official James Greer slides in!


Darlyn Fajardo: TAHTI SALVATORE HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

Nick Hanson: WOW!!!!

Jim Reynolds: Quick and efficient!

Daedalus: Very impressive, indeed! I admire the brutality.

Jim Reynolds: We actually agree on something. Say, does this guy behind us ever speak, or does he just brood like a big mean grizzly?

Kosnar looks down to meet Jim’s gaze and feigns a lunge down at him, sending Jim into another hysterical frenzy, papers flying all over the place. Nick almost falls out of his chair and Daedalus just watches the man like he’s lost his mind.

Jim Reynolds: Jesus, man! Don’t do that! You nearly gave me a fucking heart attack!

Back inside the ring, Eden Sterling and Cass Baumer are trading stiff shots back and forth now. Robert Marino’s trying to get Zoey Madigan-Star over the top rope for an elimination. Sterling keeps throwing bombs on Baumer in the corner but the former journalist-turned-deathmatch wrestler defiantly sneers back at her and dishes it right back. She reverses their positions, pushing Sterling into the corner and lays into her with mudhole stomps before setting that tipped-over table back upright. Baumer grabs Sterling and rolls her onto the table, climbing onto it with her, and starts setting up for what looks like a DDT but Sterling explodes to life and takes Baumer back down on top of herself upon the table’s surface for a Kimura Lock! Baumer starts yelling out, trying to resist the urge to tap. Sterling wrenches on the arm some more and neither of the two sees Pisces climbing up to the top turnbuckle until it’s too late.

Daedalus: Look who everyone forgot about! Foolish as they are!

Jim Reynolds: What the fuck is she doing?!

Nick Hanson: She’s not gonna…!!

But Pisces does, in fact, come soaring off of the top turnbuckle with a Swanton Bomb crashing down on top of both Baumer and Sterling! The table beneath them explodes into shards of wood and bent metal!

Crowd: OHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!

Crowd: THAT WAS AWESOME!!

Crowd: HO-LY SHIT!!

Crowd: THAT WAS AWESOME!!

Crowd: HO-LY SHIT!!

Referee Priscilla Mayer slides into the ring, looking for a valid cover from any of them but their bodies and positions are so tangled up underneath the wood, it’s hard to tell what’s going on. Bodies start to move and Pisces rolls out of the rubble, catching herself on the bottom rope, visibly breathing heavily. Baumer sits up, clutching her arm and slapping it to get some feeling back in and Eden Sterling pushes a large chunk of the table off of her, clutching her midsection as she gets to her feet. She turns and sees her and Baumer’s assailant, Pisces, also getting to her feet and it’s a battle of a women’s David & Goliath. Pisces staggers over and stares right up at Eden Sterling who grits her teeth through the pain from that dive she ate and motions for Pisces to take her best shot. Pisces tilts her head, eerily twitchy and spazzy like a jointed doll might if it was possessed and alive. Her attention seems to trail off into nothing for a moment before she suddenly obliges the Force Of Nature and blasts her in the face with a forearm. Sterling rocks back, a bit surprised by the force such a small opponent could hit with. Pisces keeps going, forearm after forearm before she goes for an Irish Whip but Sterling reverses it and sends her against the ropes instead. Sterling misses a discus forearm of her own as Pisces slips under her arm and springs back off of the ropes but as soon as she had gone under Sterling’s arm, the guest from XIX had hit the ropes to come back at her so when Pisces soars through the ropes for a crossbody, Eden Sterling dives right into her with a Meteora, sending her crashing back to the mat!!

Nick Hanson: WOW!!!!!!

Jim Reynolds: That was fucking SICK!!

Daedalus: Get up, Pisces!!!

Eden Sterling goes to get up first but Zoey Madigan-Star’s right there, seizing the window of opportunity and nails Sterling with “Seeing Stars” (Scissored DDT)! Before she can capitalize, however, Cass Baumer runs in and clocks Zoey with the Bleeding Edge!! She pulls herself to her feet but before she can move in for a pin on Zoey, Robert Marino steps in and drills Baumer into the mat with the “Drone Drop” (Ataxia)! He pauses for a breather as the clock starts again.


Robert Marino’s attention snaps towards the stage as the crowd boos and out comes Jericho Kerry from Destiny.

Nick Hanson: Ohhhhhhh man, Jim! Daedalus, are you familiar with what’s been going on between this man on his way to the ring and that man staring daggers his way?!

Daedalus: It’s to my understanding that the Kerry Family and Robert Marino don’t like each other very much. I don’t see why I should care, really. Their matter is not my concern!

Robert Marino takes a ready position, eagerly goading Jericho Kerry to come get himself some in the ring. Jericho charges right on in and the fists start flying!! A right hand from Jericho! Right hand from Robert! Jericho! Robert! Jericho! Robert! Jericho! Robert! Jericho with a European Uppercut!! Robert Marino staggers back into the ropes! Jericho Kerry rushes in for a clothesline! Marino ducks for a back body drop! Kerry lands on the apron! Marino turns right into a forearm smash from Kerry! Marino looks rocked as he spins with his back to his rival but suddenly kicks back and NAILS Kerry with a Pele Kick, sending him off of the apron and to the floor!

Darlyn Fajardo: JERICHO KERRY HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!!!

Nick Hanson: WHOOAAAAA-HO-HOOOOOOO!!

Jim Reynolds: That might have been the quickest elimination this match has ever seen!

Nick Hanson: I’ll say!!!

Jericho Kerry argues with Senior Official James Greer that he landed on the apron first but the referee affirms that he still went over the top rope and wasn’t safely back through the ropes. He’s out of here! Inside the ring, Robert Marino waves a mocking bye-bye to one of three of the Kerry Family that have been causing him grievances for weeks now. He turns his attention back to the match at hand and WHAM!!!! PISCES WITH “HIP TO BE SCARED” (Jumping Double Foot Stomp to the face)!! Pisces plops her tiny butt down on Marino’s chest, reaches back, and catches one of his legs as it comes up from the fall and hooks it.



Darlyn Fajardo: ROBERT MARINO HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!!

Nick Hanson: Robert Marino took his eyes off of the ball and it came back to bite him!

Daedalus: You can’t take your eyes off of our little doll for a second, Mr. Hanson!

Jim Reynolds: She’s in the lead for eliminations currently!

Pisces climbs to her feet and turns her attention back to the rest of the competitors as she takes position in a corner. Cass Baumer, Zoey Madigan-Star, and Eden Sterling step into a corner as well, devising their own strategy to move forward and the timer counts down again.


The Wembley Arena pops as Lil Juicy comes strutting out of the tunnel, onto the stage, performing his usual entrance dance to his music.

Nick Hanson: You guys feel like dancing?!

Daedalus: I do not, no.

Jim Reynolds: If he starts dancing, Daedalus, feel free to have Kosnar break him in half.

Daedalus: Kosnar can and will do that himself, I assure you.

Nick Hanson: ...Umm…yeah, no dancing for me.

Jim Reynolds: I wish the fuck you would.

Lil Juicy finally makes it to the ring, after getting the crowd going with a little hip gyration on the apron (some fans in the front row even start dancing with him.) His music literally keeps playing as he enters the ring, the timer starts again but as Pisces looks to be the first one to move on Juicy, she’s stopped with a hand up in her face. Juicy busts a few more dance moves then motions for Pisces to answer it in a dance-off. Pisces looks the man up and down and walks away to the boo of the crowd. Cass Baumer shrugs and says “fuck it”, stepping in to take a dance turn for herself. Baumer calls Zoey Madigan-Star over, grabs her hand, and the two start dancing together to the music. Juicy claps and pumps his fist, getting the crowd going in a chant.

Crowd: GO ZOEY! GO CASS! GO ZOEY! GO CASS! GO ZOEY! GO CASS! GO ZOEY! GO CASS!

Nick Hanson: They’re having a good old time here in London!

Jim Reynolds: You gotta be fucking kidding me…

Eden Sterling stands back in the corner, shaking her head and laughing until she sees Juicy curling a finger at her to come join the party. She tries to insist against it before Juicy grabs her by the wrist and pulls her into the impromptu dance floor. His music’s still going and the four are dancing the clock away until Pisces comes back into the mix, having merely gone to pick up a kendo stick, and ruins the fun by dishing out cane shots. The music stops abruptly as she strikes Baumer, Zoey, Sterling, and Juicy repeatedly, sending them down to the mat. Pisces surveys her work with a wild look in her eyes, throwing the splintered kendo stick to her feet. Daedalus stands from his seat and applauds. Kosnar nods silently in approval as the clock nears zero again.

Jim Reynolds: Well, at least someone remembers what the hell they’re all here for!


That first music note hits and two things happen. Pisces freezes where she stands and the crowd nearly blows the roof off of the Wembley Arena!

Nick Hanson: WHAT THE…?!

Jim Reynolds: AM I HEARING…?!

Daedalus is silent but his eyes are directly on the stage, as are Kosnar’s. Inside the ring, Pisces’ attention has snapped there as well as City Wolf’s “Protector” rings through the PA. “The Paladin” Jessica Matthews emerges from behind the curtains, wielding her Captain America Shield on her right arm, and the fans are absolutely CRAZY about it!

Nick Hanson: JESSICA MATTHEWS IS HERE! SHE’S BACK!

Jim Reynolds: God DAMN, London’s in love and so am I!

Daedalus: This cannot be… The Little Paladin was supposed to stay gone!

There’s a conflict of emotions within Daedalus. Shock, anger, panic, and despair. Unarmed, Pisces readies herself. Without hesitation, Jessica speeds down the ramp and slides into the ring. She takes a step towards Pisces but stops, narrowing her eyes. Pisces stares back at Jessica and hisses like an angry Chesire cat. With every other participant down, the fans are eager to see these two women throw down! …But why isn’t Jessica moving?

Jessica Matthews: Grab a weapon. NOW.

Nick Hanson: Despite Jessica’s personal vendetta, she won’t fight an unarmed enemy.

Jim Reynolds: That’s stupid! She’s stupid!

Nick Hanson: She’s honorable, Jim! This is her true self, the Paladin of the Guardians!

Daedalus giggles. Nothing more. Kosnar growls but doesn’t move. Pisces’ stoicism resurfaces, but she rolls out of the ring, reaches under the apron, and pulls out a Singapore cane -- wrapped in barbed wire! Jessica moves into a defensive stance, allowing Pisces to roll back into the ring with the weapon in tow. Suddenly, the two run at each other, Pisces swinging the barbed wire cane, and Jessica blocking the strikes with her shield. The fans are rallying behind the Rising Guardian as she goes on the offense now, trying to bash Pisces with her defensive weapon. Pisces parries with the cane to the best of her ability and even manages to slam her weapon against Jessica’s left arm, drawing blood!

Daedalus: Oh, Mrs. Matthews, you poor, beautiful creature…

Hissing through the pain, Jessica steps back to avoid a follow-up attack from Pisces and grits her teeth. Just as Pisces begins to swing again, Jessica dodge rolls out of the way, and gets to her feet! She spins around with such ferocity and slams the rounded edge of her shield against Pisces’ left temple! The blow sends Pisces flying backward, slumping with her arms over the top rope, and Jessica rushes her. She “backhands” Pisces with a shield smash and sends her over the top rope -- but Pisces holds on tightly, keeping herself on the ring apron while sacrificing the cane! Narrowing her eyes, Jessica throws her shield out of the ring. It hits the barricade and lands on the padded floor just behind Pisces. In a swift motion, Jessica makes a dash for Pisces, jumps over the top rope, and catches her, SENDING HER ONTO THE SHIELD WITH A SUNSET FLIP POWERBOMB!!

Nick Hanson: UNBELIEVABLE!

Jim Reynolds: HOLY SHIT!!

Darlyn Fajardo: PISCES AND JESSICA MATTHEWS HAVE BEEN ELIMINATED!!!

Crowd: HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!

Daedalus: No, no, no, no, NO! HOW DARE YOU!?

Daedalus is not having ANY OF IT. He removes the headset and throws it onto the commentary table in a child-like fit! Despite the static, the microphone piece can still pick up his words.

Daedalus: Kosnar! DESTROY HER!

Growling, Kosnar makes his way toward the side of the ring where his compatriot and their relentless enemy landed. Jessica’s slowly getting to her feet, retrieving her shield from underneath Pisces’ semi-conscious form, and she catches Kosnar advancing from the corner of her eye. She makes a tactical retreat, jumping the barricade and disappearing through the London crowd! Kosnar is unrelenting in his pursuit, following the Architect’s command, while Daedalus moves to check on Pisces. He helps her up and escorts her to the back.

Jim Reynolds: Oh, thank God, the Creeps are gone!

Nick Hanson: At least until the Tag-Team Championship match tomorrow night. Back in the ring, everyone’s recovered from that assault!


Nick Hanson: Here comes Azzy Vebbins!!

Jim Reynolds: Shame she missed the in-ring dance party.

Nick Hanson: Oh no worries, I'm sure there's about to be some squared circle dancing once she hits that ring, Jim.

Jim Reynolds: My god, will you SHUT...UP?!?!

As the fighting inside the ring resumes, Azurine Vebbins makes her way to the ring to a popping crowd. By the time she reaches the ring, the chaos has resumed. Cass Baumer and Eden Sterling are teeing off on one another while Zoey Madigan-Star seems to be giving Lil Juicy a first hands-on lesson in technical wrestling - which is to say, taking him to the mat with repeated armdrags and hip tosses and administering submission holds. Juicy may not be the most technically savvy wrestler but his wiry frame allows him to twist and slip out of the tension of a lot of Zoey’s holds until he throws one long leg up over her shoulder and takes her down into his own Triangle Choke. Before he can get it fully locked in, however, Zoey flips over him into a bridge and that’s a cover!


Juicy lets go of Zoey, breaking her posture and manages to get his shoulder up. Vebbins rushes over and drops down right on top of Zoey, looking for a cover of her own to kick things off for herself early!


Vebbins hops up and goes for Lil Juicy next, picking him up to his feet and looks for a Fisherman Leg Hook Suplex. Due to the height difference, however, Juicy’s able to slip down and land behind her before shoving Vebbins into the ropes. She bounces back and baseball slides between his legs, popping up behind him for a Double Knee Backstabber. Zoey slips in behind her, looking for a Dragon Suplex but Vebbins extends her arms up and slips right out of it. She does a dance twirl to face Zoey and the two run at each other with Vebbins juking past her, hitting the ropes and coming back with a Dropkick that Zoey matches, causing both women to kick empty air and land in the prone position, facing each other with respective grins on their faces. Vebbins blows a kiss and Zoey winks, getting a little laugh and clap from the crowd.

Nick Hanson: Nothing says you can’t have fun while getting the job done, folks!

Jim Reynolds: It’s all just a dance to Da Adorkable Angel!

Meanwhile, Baumer and Sterling may have no bad blood between each other, but the two know what’s at stake and are just going smash-mouth on each other. They’re trading chops and still haymaker forearms back and forth. Things are starting to get a little heated between the two as they start daring each other to hit them harder. The two spill out through the ropes and to the ringside floor. Baumer goes for a chair and swings overhead but Sterling catches it and throws her knee into Baumer’s ribs, wrenching the chair from her grip before wrapping it violently over her head. Baumer staggers back into the barricade with the chair resting over her head and shoulders. Sterling grabs her by the arm in one hand, the back of the chair in the other and shoves her as hard as she can into the ringpost!

Crowd: OOOOOOH!

Jim Reynolds: HOLY SHIT!!!

Nick Hanson: XIX’s Killer Queen living up to her moniker!

Sterling picks Baumer up and rolls her into the ring. Sliding in behind her, she grabs Baumer by the hair from behind as she gets up onto her knees and pulls her up. As Baumer’s lifted to her feet, though, she has a kendo stick in her grasp from the assortment she originally brought into the ring from the beginning. Baumer swings the Singapore cane up and back over her head, CRACKING Sterling over the crown of the skull! Sterling lets go and staggers. Baumer turns around, now with a proverbial crimson mask of blood painting her features and tees off on Sterling again, putting her onto the mat. As she lays there, traces of blood can be seen beginning to appear on her forehead.


The Wembley Arena crowd gets loud as “Halloweenie IV: Innards” fills their ears and out comes Trixie…pushing a literal shopping cart of hardcore goodies to the ring. Destiny’s Zodiac Champion pulls up to the ring, throwing out her arms and getting right up into the camera, yelling “MERRY CHRISTMAS, BITCHES!!! HERE COMES TRIXIE CLAUSE!!” She reaches into a literal giant burlap sack inside the cart and starts dolling out “gifts.” A bundle of light tubes, which she sets on the ring apron, a cheese grater, a staple gun, a length of chain and a pizza cutter.

Jim Reynolds: The fuck kinda Christmas does this woman celebrate?!

Nick Hanson: Gonna be a Violent Night to be sure, Jim!

Trixie settles for the length of chain for starters and wraps it around her fist and forearm. The fans have no idea what exactly she has planned with it but they’re cheering at the aspect of more violence. Baumer’s the first one to go for her, swinging the kendo stick at her. Trixie blocks the shot with her chain wrapped arm, quickly following up with a forearm shot using the same arm. Baumer stumbles back into the ropes and Trixie turns her attention to see Lil Juicy coming at her with a Big Boot. She catches his leg on her shoulder and hammers her chain arm across his shin. Juicy staggers and his posture sags low enough so Trixie can deliver a devastating discus forearm to the midsection. Juicy keels over and Trixie hops up, straddling his back to deliver the “Jinx Drop” (Leg Trap Sunset Powerbomb) for a cover!


Darlyn Fajardo: LIL JUICY HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

Trixie starts putting her chain arm to further use, clobbering anyone that comes her way with it. Azurine Vebbins gets a shot. Eden Sterling gets a shot. Zoey Madigan-Star gets a shot. Cass Baumer gets another shot. Trixie Decker’s like Oprah Winfrey with shots from her makeshift bludgeon.

Jim Reynolds: YOU WANT A SHOT?! YOU WANT A SHOT?! YOU WANT A SHOT?! YOU WANT A SHOT?! YOU WANT A SHOT?! YOU WANT A SHOT?! YOU WANT A SHOT?!

Nick Hanson: For the love of God, what is the matter with you?! Sit down! How much coffee did you have today?!

Almost mercifully, Trixie unwraps the chain from around her arm and tosses it aside, rolling out of the ring and goes back into her bag. She makes curious facial expressions as she rummages around before her eyes light up like she’s found the jackpot. Slowly, she withdraws her hand to reveal…a FORK! Yes, a stainless steel fork. The kind you usually stab your food with. Unfortunately, there’s no food here. Just other people. Nonetheless, Trixie’s eyes are gleaming with a wild bloodlust as she climbs back into the ring and goes right for Azurine Vebbins. Apparently, Trixie doesn’t feel like there’s enough bloodshed in this match already because she starts jabbing the prongs into Vebbins’ forehead repeatedly, taking a moment at one point to jab them in and rotate her wrist in circles, digging the fork in deeper before yanking it out. Vebbins tears herself free from Trixie’s grasp and licks the blood off of the fork, much to the disturbance of the fans.

Nick Hanson: This woman is SICK, Jim!

Jim Reynolds: Isn’t she, though?!


As the clock hits zero and the music plays for a moment, the man sometimes known as The Bard, while other times known as The Trauma, doesn’t so much walk out to the ring as he just simply seems to appear. That is to say, his music hits, the lights go completely out for a brief moment and when they come back on, everyone’s managed to make it to their feet but there’s Gabriel Ohio, standing menacingly in the center of the ring, easily towering over the rest of them. Cass Baumer, Zoey Madigan-Star, Eden Sterling and a now bloody faced Azurine Vebbins (about as bloody as Baumer and Sterling are at this point) all stand back in a corner with Trixie Decker turning around to see The Bard standing there, staring coldly in her direction as she just happens to be the one in his direct line of vision. Contrary to the intimidating visage before her, Trixie just grins and waves with her fork…before rushing the man. Gabriel goes from that statuesque posture to suddenly springing into action and hits the “Bloody Mary” (Red Mist) right into the eyes of the Zodiac Champion! Trixie grabs her face, dropping her fork and hits the mat, screaming from the burn. The other four explode out of their corners, dogpiling on Gabriel, attacking The Bard with a barrage of forearms and fists in a rain of blows.

After a moment, Gabriel explodes back up to a vertical position, shoving them all away from him. They rush him again but he catches them on the way in. A Big Boot to Sterling. A T-Bone Suplex to Azurine Vebbins. He catches a superkick from Zoey Madigan-Star and yanks her into a Fallaway Slam. Cass Baumer launches herself at him, looking for the Bleeding Edge but Gabriel catches her into an Irish Curse Backbreaker! He holds Baumer over his knee and grins wickedly, delivering a Snap Reverse STO to complete “Día de Muertos!” He plants his hands over Baumer’s torso and covers!


Darlyn Fajardo: CASS BAUMER HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

Nick Hanson: She made it so far! Over halfway through the entries!

Jim Reynolds: But Gabriel Ohio said he was going to show NFW what he was capable of and I believe this is it! He can snap your dreams out of your grasp just like that!

Gabriel climbs back to his feet again just in time to catch Trixie coming at him with her fork in hand but he catches her by the wrist. Grinning wickedly, he pries the fork out of her grasp and holds it up to her as he lets go of her arm. Trixie watches, a little taken aback as Gabriel digs the fork into the side of his forehead. This gets mixed reactions from the crowd. Those who are new to this are utterly appalled while long time fans of The Bard seem to cheer for a bit as Gabriel growls in pain, digging the fork into his flesh before yanking it out with a trail of red oozing down the side of his face. Gabriel almost looks relieved as he tosses the fork to Trixie’s feet and drops to his knees, arms spread in offering to her. Trixie picks the fork up, hesitantly, not sure if she should be terrified or amused at the man who’s so willing to suffer such pain. Alas, there’s Gabriel beckoning at her to come at him and give it her best shot. Gabriel motions with his hands, eventually shouting at Trixie to come at him when suddenly a bundle of light tubes EXPLODES across the back of his head!! Gabriel goes face down onto the mat in a cloud of fluorescent dust and Zoey Madigan-Star is standing over him, holding the remnants of the bundle that Trixie brought to the ring. Zoey rolls him over for a pin. Trixie jumps down over Zoey’s back, in a seeming effort to help pin the big man.


Gabriel Ohio kicks out, shoving Trixie and Zoey off of him! Both of them sit back on the mat with widened eyes as Gabriel sits up like Michael Myers and just smiles at them. His black ring gear peppered in white dust now which he looks at and chuckles. He touches the back of his head and his fingers come back red. He looks pleased as he starts getting back to his feet.


Nick Hanson: WHOOOOAAAAA MAAAAAN!!

Jim Reynolds: Tonight’s just full of surprises, Nicky!

The crowd goes wild as Elaina Drakea comes out onto the stage, pumped up and ready to go. Fresh off of injury rehab and ready to kick some ass. She pumps the crowd up some before making her way to the ring, towards the carnage that’s unfolded between the ropes. Eden Sterling and Trixie Decker are now going at it in an all out brawl. Zoey Madigan-Star and Azurine Vebbins are working in unison against the nightmarish goliath that is Gabriel Ohio. Zoey’s chopping away with a kendo stick on The Bard, whacking away at his hips and legs, trying to cut him down to size a bit. Ohio catches the stick in his hands and just pulls as hard as he can but Zoey hangs on tight, causing Ohio to toss her across the mat. He steps towards her and Vebbins nails him in the back with a chair. Ohio tenses up and turns around to face her. Vebbins comes at him with an overhead shot but Ohio catches the chair and shoves Vebbins back, wrenching the chair away from her. He tosses the chair back, Vebbins catches it and Ohio explodes forward, kicking it into her face with a running big boot. Zoey makes it back to her feet and drops Ohio to one knee with a chop block. She follows up quickly with “Seeing Stars” drilling his head into the mat. Zoey pops up triumphantly just as Elaina Drakea slides into the ring and catches the wrestling Magician around the waist for a big snap German Suplex! Sterling and Decker separate, seeing a fresh threat in the ring and move in. Drakea catches Decker in a bearhug and tosses her back with an Overhead Belly to Belly Suplex. Sterling rushes in next as Drakea pops to her feet and swoops the Killer Queen up across her shoulders for a Samoan Drop.

Nick Hanson: Ellie Drakea came here meaning business, Jim Reynolds!

Vebbins comes at Drakea without the chair only for Drakea to scoop her up for a spinning Spinebuster. Drake smartly doesn’t forget about Gabriel Ohio and turns towards him as he staggers up to his feet. She throws a forearm right into his sternum, rocking him but he fires back with a backhand chop across her chest that the fans hear POP in the upper seats. Ohio grabs Drakea and lifts her up for “Fall From Grace” (Steiner Screwdriver) but Drakea slips down behind him and grabs him under a leg and around the waist. Fans can’t believe it as she grunts loudly and lifts Ohio off of his feet—

Jim Reynolds: ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! THAT’S ALMOST THREE HUNDRED POUNDS–

–SAITO SUPLEX to Gabriel Ohio!! Some would swear the ring trembled from the impact as Drakea sits up, clenching her fists and gritting her teeth in determination. She gets up to her feet and Trixie Decker jumps onto her back, looking for what appears to be a Sleeper Hold at first but she has that fork in her hand and starts going at Drakea’s forehead with it! Drakea stumbles back towards the ropes and Eden Sterling runs in with a Complete Shot, snapping Drakea down to the mat. Decker’s safe from that impact, however, Sterling grabs her and lifts her up for a Powerbomb. Before she can get her set up for the drop, Decker starts stabbing away at Sterling’s forehead with the fork, causing the Killer Queen to drop back onto the mat with Decker straddling her chest and head, hooking the legs. Referee James Greer’s in for the count!


Sterling shoves Trixie off of her and into the ropes, sitting up with more blood trickling down her face. She climbs to her feet and finds herself face to face with Azurine Vebbins, looking to take her back down with a combination of stiff forearms and thrust kicks. Sterling stands on wobbly legs and Vebbins rocks her with a spinning back fist. Sterling sways and Vebbins runs off the ropes, diving at her for a crossbody but Sterling leans down and catches Vebbins in a Firemen’s Carry! “Killer Instinct” to Vebbins! Cover! Referee Greer’s back in!


Darlyn Fajardo: AZURINE VEBBINS HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!


Jim Reynolds: YEEEEEAAAAAHHHHH!!! LET’S FUCKING GO!!

Nick Hanson: We wondered if she was even gonna be here after her little situation with management but here comes the Scream Queen!!!

As Godsmack’s “Bulletproof” gets the crowd going again, Dona Rotten comes out of the tunnel, followed closely by Alice Chambers. Dona storms towards the ring, pulling off her Shieldmaidens MC kutte and her bandana, passing them to Alice. In turn, Alice pulls something right out of…well…the top of her shirt, and passes it to Rotten. The Shieldmaiden’s “Venom” makes no effort to conceal it as she boldly slides a set of brass knuckles onto her hand and breaks into a sprint towards the ring.

Nick Hanson: Oh my… Oh No!!!

Jim Reynolds: She ain’t here to fuck around, Nicky!

Nick Hanson: Another veteran to the hardcore, deathmatch scene, folks! She’s bled buckets both here and in Yamashi Pro!

Jim Reynolds: And she’ll do it with a fucking smile! Here comes the Scream Queen, motherfuckers!

Dona Rotten reaches the ring and starts letting the rest of the competitors get their sandwiches. Knuckle sandwiches, that is, as she blasts Eden Sterling across the jaw. Trixie Decker spins Rotten around and goes for a forearm. The Scream Queen parries with her other arm and rocks Decker with the knuckles! Ellie Drakea comes running off the ropes but Rotten swings low and nails her in the midsection with the knuckle dusters then snaps her to the mat with an Evenflow DDT.

Nick Hanson: Dona Rotten’s going to town with those re-enforced punches!

Jim Reynolds: Uh-oh, what’s gonna happen here?!

Dona Rotten pops up, looking for who to clock next and finds herself in a standoff with Zoey Madigan-Star. Zoey looks at Dona and in an almost parental manner, points at the brass knucks and tells her to put them down. Dona points at the weapon on her hand and motions to the rest of the weapons around the ring, then shrugs. Nick Hanson and Jim Reynolds laugh.

Jim Reynolds: I think Zoey’s trying to convince Dona to put those things down.

Nick Hanson: It IS a No Disqualification match.

The two have an almost comical debate about the matter before Zoey walks up and tries to take the knuckles from her. Dona protests, swatting at her hands until she sees Zoey look up at movement behind her. Instinctively, Dona moves out of the way just as Gabriel Ohio goes for the “Bloody Mary”, nailing Zoey with it. He spins around to find Dona and catches a blast of “Venomous Mist” (Green Mist) right in the eyes!

Nick Hanson: Dona Rotten with a similar trick of her own to answer The Bard!

Jim Reynolds: If anyone can survive someone out of a horror movie, it’s her, Nicky!

Gabriel rubs at his eyes as Dona springs off of the middle rope and SUPERMAN PUNCHES him across the forehead! Gabriel goes down! Dona finally pulls the brass knuckles off of her hand, kisses them as a thank you and tosses them to the mat, sending them sliding out of the ring.


Nick Hanson: Well, the ring’s starting to get a little crowded, as can happen in a rumble! Here comes another member of the Cornbread Mafia!

Jim Reynolds: Shame for him his brother isn’t around still but I don’t think it’s gonna bother Cameron Worley one bit!

No, not at all as Cameron Worley makes his way to the ring and immediately goes underneath the apron to start looking for something. He doesn’t find anything new that strikes his fancy so he turns his eyes towards Trixie Decker’s shopping cart with her Santa sack inside and starts rummaging through it. Trixie sees this and slides out of the ring, grabbing Cameron and turning him towards her, yelling about “No peeking!” Cameron bows up on Trixie and now those two start throwing shots back and forth at each other. The slugfest turns in Cameron’s favor and he goes for the bag again. This time, he pulls out another cheese grater. He says he’s got something for Trixie’s ass right here and grabs her by the hair as she leans back against the apron and grinds the cheese grater across her forehead. He shoves her into the ring, following her which finally starts the countdown to the next entry. Cameron grabs that length of chain up and wraps the end around his fist and starts using it like a flail. Cameron starts lashing at Trixie with the chain. He turns then and catches Dona Rotten across the ribs, swinging the chain like a whip. He turns and catches Eden Sterling across the arm and torso with a lash from the chain then drops her with a running lariat.

Nick Hanson: Cameron Worley putting the hurt on the opposition here, folks!!

Jim Reynolds: I’m assuming that chain is made of steel, Nicky! There’s not alot of men or women that can– Uhhh-ohhhhhh!

As Jim is saying this, Cameron swings the chain at Gabriel Ohio but The Bard swings his arm out, hits the chain and causes it to wrap around his forearm. Cameron tugs on the chain but Gabriel doesn’t budge. Gabriel yanks his arm back in, jerking Cameron forward and floors him with a clothesline, knocking Cameron inside out and onto the mat.

Nick Hanson: Big clothesline from Gabriel Ohio!!

Jim Reynolds: I spoke too soon!

Gabriel unwraps the chain from around his arm and leans down, wrapping it around Cameron’s mouth, pulling it back. Gabriel smiles and laughs like a lunatic, wrenching back as hard as he can, getting Cameron into a sort of modified Camel Clutch. Cameron looks ready to tap when, all of a sudden again, a light tube explodes over the back of his head. Gabriel lets go of Cameron and Zoey Madigan-Star grabs him around the chin, holding what’s left of the light tube and jamming the jagged end into his forehead. Blood oozes down his face as Zoey lets him go and trades the broken tube out for a second light tube bundle. Gabriel stands and turns as Zoey comes running at him, swinging the bundle at him. Gabriel throws a forearm, smashing through the light tubes, causing it to explode between them and right into Zoey’s face. Zoey staggers back and Gabriel snatches her up off of the mat. “Steiner Screwdriver” to Zoey Madigan-Star! Ohio covers!


Darlyn Fajardo: ZOEY MADIGAN-STAR HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!!

Nick Hanson: And Zoey’s out of this one!

Jim Reynolds: This guy, Ohio, is scary Nicky!

Gabriel Ohio grabs up the chain again and now targets Dona Rotten, starting to choke her out with the chain.


Crowd: PSYCHO SAOIRSE!! PSYCHO SAOIRSE!! PSYCHO SAOIRSE!! PSYCHO SAOIRSE!!

The crowd gets the chant going as “Psycho” Saoirse Maguire of the Shieldmaidens comes out of the tunnel, like a bat out of Hell. She doesn’t even drop her kutte as she sprints down the ring, sliding in under the bottom rope and hits Gabriel in the back of the leg with a Basement Dropkick. Gabriel lets go of Dona Rotten and the Scream Queen is freed from her strangling predicament.

Nick Hanson: This might have ended up bad for Dona Rotten but her MC sister has arrived!

Saoirse starts going in on Gabriel with the kicks. Dona joins in, laying into The Bard with the kicks on both sides before Dona motions for Saoirse to help her with something. The two pick up the length of chain and pull it taut, running into clothesline Ohio down to the mat. Dona and Saoirse drop the chain and double high five each other to a pop from the crowd.

Nick Hanson: Hell is empty and the Shieldmaidens are here in London!

Jim Reynolds: And even then, Hell has come with them!

With seven bodies in the ring now, things are starting to get a little hectic. Eden Sterling and Elaina Drakea start teeing off on each other. Cameron Worley and Dona Rotten start slugging it out with stiff rights and lefts. Trixie Decker and Saoirse Maguire start trading kendo stick shots to each other, egging the other on to hit them back harder. Gabriel Ohio comes back into the fray, snatching Saoirse by the throat after she gives Trixie a hard crack over the head with her kendo stick, and chokeslams the Psycho smack dab in the middle of the ring. He starts moving towards Trixie next when Eden Sterling sends Elaina Drakea back with a discus forearm and she bumps back into Ohio. Both competitors spin around and stare daggers at each other. Trixie shrugs off the distraction and decides to move in on Eden.


Nick Hanson: And here comes The Reaper, ladies and gentlemen!

Jim Reynolds: Looking to collect on some souls here in London!

Darcy Graves makes it to the ring. Just as she does, Dona Rotten catches Cameron Worley with a European Uppercut, sending him around in a 180* where she catches him with the “Punk Plex” (Half Nelson Suplex) and hooks the leg for the cover.


Darcy hops in over the top rope and catches Dona as she gets to her feet, delivering a Release German Suplex. She pops up and hits Trixie with a Tiger Suplex. Darcy kips up to her feet and finds herself face to face with Elaina Drakea. The crowd starts going crazy as the two suplex machine gals bow up to each other. Darcy smirks and starts talking some trash. Elaina grins and the two start throwing shade back and forth on each other. All around them, chaos has erupted further. The trash talk escalates until Darcy shoves Elaina and Elaina shoves her right back. Darcy clocks her with a forearm and Elaina clocks her right back. The two start trading blows until Darcy runs the ropes and plows into Elaina with a shoulder block. Elaina stumbles back a step and bows right back up to Darcy who invites her to run the ropes herself. Elaina does and slams into Darcy, knocking her back into the ropes. Darcy uses the momentum to hit Elaina with a clothesline, leveling her for a pin.


At another side of the ropes, Gabriel Ohio and Cameron Worley are fighting for an elimination with Ohio trying to push Worley over the top but Worley’s holding on tight. Saoirse Maguire sees the situation and runs over, grabbing one of Gabriel’s legs to try and dump him and Cameron both over but she’s struggling to really get his feet off the mat. She manages to get one before Dona Rotten sees her Shieldmaiden sister in a situation and rushes over, grabbing Ohio’s other leg and lifts. Together, both women get The Bard up off of the mat, sending both Gabriel Ohio and Cameron Worley out of the ring and to the floor, much to the crowd’s shock!

Darlyn Fajardo: CAMERON WORLEY AND GABRIEL OHIO HAVE BEEN ELIMINATED!!

Nick Hanson: I don’t believe what I just saw!! Did they just manage that?!

Jim Reynolds: Ohhhhh, Gabriel Ohio doesn’t look happy!

Outside, Gabriel stands, staring at Saoirse and Dona. Saoirse grins and waves bye bye…and The Bard just smirks, disturbingly, and nods.

Jim Reynolds: I don’t like that look, Nicky.

Nick Hanson: Well, out go two and in comes the next!


Trixie Decker hears this music and she turns from Eden Sterling with venom in her eyes as she sees Diamond Steele strutting towards the ring. She looks to Eden who’s pulling herself up in the corner. She looks back to Diamond approaching. As Diamond gets closer to the ring, Trixie runs the ropes and comes diving through at Diamond with a Suicide Dive! Trixie SLAMS into Diamond, taking her off guard and they both tumble to the floor. The two Destiny roster members, still at war over Decker’s Zodiac Title start slugging it out at ringside. Both referees come around and order them to get in the ring. They both ignore the officials as Trixie bounces Diamond’s head off of the barricade. She then whips Diamond into the ring post nearby and goes back into her Christmas sack she brought. Something she feels makes her get a malicious grin on her face as she turns to Diamond and says she’s got something the Gem has been wanting. Trixie pulls out…the NFW Zodiac Championship!

Jim Reynolds: That IS what she’s been wanting, Nicky!

Nick Hanson: I think Trixie’s looking to give it to her, Jim, but not in the way that Diamond Steele wants!

Trixie runs at Diamond and swings with the title but narrowly misses as Diamond ducks under and runs over to the cart. Trixie catches her balance and spins back around just as Diamond comes rushing at her with that shopping cart and RAMS it right into Trixie, sandwiching her between it and the barricade behind her. Diamond promptly grabs the Zodiac Title and takes a moment to look at it fondly before readying for an attack. Trixie pushes the cart away from her, turns and Diamond LEVELS her with the Zodiac Championship belt!

Nick Hanson: Ohh what a shot!!!!

Jim Reynolds: Diamond’s gotta get in the ring! She hasn’t officially entered the match yet!

Instead, Diamond grabs that second table brought out by Cass Baumer earlier in the beginning of the match and sets it up right beside the ring. She then grabs Trixie and throws her into the ring, crawling in behind her.

Inside the ring, Elaina Drakea and Darcy Graves are slugging it out in a corner with Darcy laying into Elaina with some stiff MMA punches. Elaina covers up with her forearms and snatches Darcy up by her legs, looking to more or less Shoot Takedown her over the top rope, Darcy starts going over but she wraps her legs around Elaina’s head and holds on tight but she continues to go over. Subsequently, it takes Elaina with her but Elaina manages to slow their descent by grabbing onto the rope and both wrestlers land on the apron. The two make it up to their feet, both realizing the predicament they’re in but seeing the opportunity for an easy elimination in their favor. They both grab the top rope to steady themselves and start trading shots with one another. Darcy rocks Elaina with a headbutt and almost sends her off the apron but Elaina grabs the rope again. Darcy comes in with a kick. Elaina catches her leg and throws it aside, putting her into a spin on the apron. Darcy’s heart jumps into her throat as she grabs the rope again, facing inside the ring, narrowly saving herself but Elaina throws a wicked stiff kick to the back and Darcy’s posture locks up. She lets go with one hand and reaches back behind her and Elaina grips the rope tight and nails her with a superkick that sends Graves tumbling to the floor.

Darlyn Fajardo: DARCY GRAVES HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!!

Elaina Drakea lets out a sigh of relief and turns back to get into the ring when the first thing she sees is Dona Rotten flying through the air at her and catching her across the head with a flying Shining Wizard, sending Drakea down to the floor as well!

Darlyn Fajardo: ELAINA DRAKEA HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!!


Nick Hanson: And here comes the Ice Emperor!! Number twenty!!

Jim Reynolds: She drew a lucky number, considering what’s at stake for her!

Nick Hanson: She has so much to gain yet everything to lose here tonight!

Jim Reynolds: I mean, if she wins, she gets the title shot, Nicky.

Nick Hanson: And if she doesn’t you heard General Manager, Jessica Morian. She’s fired!

Haruka Fukuhara walks down to the ring to a chorus of boos from London fans that would love to see her lose it all here tonight. She tunes them out as she walks with a sense of purpose and determination. She hasn’t even come out with her entrance gear. She’s just ready to throw down as soon as she reaches the ring. As the carnage in and around the ring continues, Eden Sterling and Dona Rotten are brawling on the outside when Eden slips around a haymaker attempt from Dona, catches her on her shoulders and DRIVES her through another setup table with a modified “Killer Instinct!!!”

Crowd: OHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!

Jim Reynolds: HOLY SHIT, NICKY!!!!

Nick Hanson: INSANE DISPLAY FROM EDEN STERLING!!.

Jim Reynolds: SHE’S A KILLER…QUEEEEEEEN!

Nick Hanson: For the love of all that is sacred, don’t sing.

Jim Reynolds: Hey fuck you, Nicky!

Eden Sterling slides back into the ring, facing off with Saoirse Maguire until they both see Haruka Fukuhara make it into the ring and turn towards her. Trixie and Diamond are still fighting it out in the corner. Haruka balls up her fists, breathing faster, heavier with each passing second before she explodes into action and just rushes Saoirse Maguire! The two start throwing fists at each other with Haruka bulldozing Saoirse into another corner. Eden Sterling comes, grabs Haruka and whips her across the ring into another corner. Haruka slams into it so hard, her feet fly up off the mat and she keeps herself standing. Eden comes running in and Haruka kicks up her feet, nailing her in the face. She explodes out of the corner and lariats Sterling down to the mat. Saoirse comes out of the corner and nails Haruka with a superkick, taking her down to the mat and drops down into a cover!


Haruka sits up, holding her jaw with wide eyes, double checking with the referee, making sure it was only two. The relief on her face betrays her normally hidden emotions. Saoirse grabs her up by the hair and throws her towards the ropes, sending her over the top rope but Haruka lands with one foot on the apron and plops down on her butt with one leg hanging off. She pulls herself onto the apron, worry on her face. Saoirse comes rushing at her, looking to knock her off and Haruka rams her shoulder through the top and middle ropes, right into Saoirse’s midsection, sending her back. Eden Sterling comes rushing towards her and Haruka drops down, pulling the top rope with her! Eden Sterling’s momentum sends her over the top rope and down to the floor!

Darlyn Fajardo: EDEN STERLING IS ELIMINATED!

Haruka looks like a cat in a room full of starving wolves and she rolls in underneath the bottom rope. Across the ring, Diamond Steele and Trixie Decker are still having it out with one another with Diamond laying into Trixie with some chops to the chest as she has her back against the ropes. Diamond backs up and goes for a clothesline but Trixie ducks, steps back and hits Diamond with a clothesline of her own! Diamond goes over the top rope but lands relatively safely on top of the table she set up. Diamond is told by the referee that she’s technically still safe. Her feet haven’t touched the floor yet. She carefully stands up onto it, turning towards the ring. On the other side of the ropes, Trixie shrugs and gives a visible “Fuck it” before slingshotting herself over the top rope, catching Diamond by the head and DDTs HER RIGHT THROUGH THE TABLE!!!!! The table explodes beneath them as they hit the floor and the referee gives the signal!

Darlyn Fajardo: DIAMOND STEELE AND TRIXIE DECKER HAVE BEEN ELIMINATED!!

Nick Hanson: I guess one title’s enough for Little Miss Jinx!

Jim Reynolds: And the satisfaction of denying Diamond Steele another title is just the cherry on top!

Saoirse Maguire and Haruka Fukuhara are now in the ring just going HAM on one another. It’s another trade off of forearms. Saoirse’s throwing everything she’s got into her shots. She knows with how much fresher Haruka is, she needs to absolutely lay into her. Haruka’s going just as hard on Saoirse with her NFW career on the line. Haruka ROCKS Saoirse with a forearm and sends her staggering back. She lunges forward but Saoirse catches her with a spinning thrust kick to the stomach and starts going to town with her deadly kicks, throwing in some chops and elbows into the mix, just unloading on Haruka with a sick combo. She whips Haruka off of the ropes and tosses her up to hit a Pop-Up European Uppercut! Haruka goes down! Saoirse covers!


Referee Priscilla Mayer is fully in the ring now to oversee a pinfall or submission while Senior Official James Greer patrols outside to score a possible top rope elimination. Haruka sits up again, hand over her mouth and looks at the referee. Still just two. Relief on the Ice Emperor’s face. She doesn’t see Saoirse preparing herself for a big strike as she gets to her feet and turns and here comes Saoirse with the “Gealtachta” (Black Mass) BUT NO!! Haruka ducks underneath it. She then launches forward right into “God Botherer” (Running Big Boot with a Stomp), blasting Saoirse right in the face! She covers!


Haruka sits up with frustration as Saoirse fires her shoulder off of the mat at the last possible second.

Jim Reynolds: Ooh she almost had it, Nicky!!

Nick Hanson: That was a close one!

Haruka picks Saoirse up and whips her towards the corner but Saoirse runs up the turnbuckle and comes back down with “Air Psycho” (Poetry In Motion) nailing Haruka right in the head!! Another cover by Maguire!!


Saoirse gets back up and looks for another “Gealtachta” but again, when she goes for it, Haruka’s keeping her eye out for any and all threats to her livelihood. This time, she catches Saoirse’s foot, staggering from the kick but her catch has significantly softened the blow. Holding onto Maguire’s leg, Haruka lunges forward into an improvised, modified version of her “Oredigger” lariat, wrenching the leg instead of the arm. Saoirse hits the mat and Haruka hastily scoops her up across her shoulders, yells in defiance to all who would see her gone and spikes Saoirse with “To The Mines” (Storm Cradle Driver)!


Saoirse kicks out at the last possible second but Haruka doesn’t fully let go of her as, once Saoirse rolls onto her stomach, Haruka pounces on her and wraps one of Maguire’s arms up around her own neck, administering the “Rail Tie” (Arm trapped Cobra Clutch Crossface)!! Saoirse can’t move at this point and Haruka wrenches back as tight as she can. The referee gets down to check for a submission and after about thirty seconds, Saoirse opts to let her body live to fight another day and nods when she’s asked if she wants to submit. Priscilla Mayer calls for the ring announcer!

Darlyn Fajardo: SAOIRSE MAGUIRE HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!!

Jim Reynolds: THAT’S IT, NICKY!!!!! SHE’S WON IT!! HAHA!!

Nick Hanson: Uhhhh, Jim? I wouldn’t be so sure of that just yet!

Jim Reynolds: Huh?

Nick Hanson: We’ve got a uhh…bit of a situation on our hands here…

As Jim and Nick are discussing things, the camera swings over to ringside in front of their table to find Dona Rotten starting to pull herself up onto her feet outside the ring. Not realizing the full situation, she crawls back into the ring and gets up. At the exact same time, Dona and Haruka turn around to see each other. Both of their faces drop. Dona shakes her head and clearly mouths “Nope.” Haruka looks ready to go but she stalls, growing frustrated.

Jim Reynolds: What the hell’s going on, Nicky?! What’s gonna happen here?!

Nick Hanson: I don’t know, Jim! There’s a big title shot on the line but more than that, Haruka’s job here is on the line! If she loses, she’s fired, but…

Jim Reynolds: But contract states that Haruka Fukuhara and Dona Rotten will not compete against each other! That’s in Dona Rotten’s contract since last year! Is Dona gonna forfeit?!

Nick Hanson: Why would anybody throw a title shot away like that? But…these two can’t fight each other!

Haruka paces around, trying to obviously think of a solution. Dona rests back in the corner. An exchange starts between the two where Haruka’s essentially telling Dona “fight me” but Dona shakes her head and gives her the middle finger with a clear “fuck you!” Haruka fumes and points to the ropes off to the side, telling Dona to throw herself out then. Dona laughs and switches middle fingers with a “kiss my ass!” Haruka looks like she wants to just go at Dona full bore. Dona warns her that if she does, it’ll be a world of trouble for everyone.

Nick Hanson: Oh this is insane, ladies and gentlemen. We’re at a stalemate here an—

Jessica Clarkson-Morian: Hey, hey, hey, whoa! Both of y’all stop right there, now!

Jim Reynolds: Uh-oh! It’s boss lady!

Collision General Manager, Jessica Clarkson-Morian comes walking out onto the stage, microphone in hand and looks down at the ramp. She watches the two women down in the ring and looks as equally frustrated as they are.

Jessica Clarkson-Morian: It… It’s obvious I done gone and made a huge mishap with booking this match and obviously…

She waves a hand out at the ring.

Jessica Clarkson-Morian: The worst possible scenario is right here. Y’all are contractually unable to face each other per a clause in Ms. Dona’s contract. I reckon that leaves me at a crossroads.

The GM takes a deep breath, lets it out, trying to stay calm and looks back down at the ring.

Jessica Clarkson-Morian: Ms. Haruka, you’re well aware of our agreement regarding this match. That withstanding, given this here current situation…you can’t plausibly win this match, but you can’t lose it neither. So…my apologies to the fans for such a muckup on my part. As General Manager to the Collision brand, I’m hereby declaring this year’s Silver Rush Rumble, a No Contest…

Nick Hanson & Jim Reynolds: WHAT?!

The crowd stirs with commotion, absolutely confused as to what this is going to mean moving forward. Jessica Clarkson-Morian apologetically shakes her head and raises a hand, asking for silence from the fans so that she may continue.

Jessica Clarkson-Morian: It’s the only solution I can feasibly come up with regarding this matter. That being said…Ms. Dona? Please forgive me for being absent minded regarding the latest clause in your contract. Ms. Haruka, as far as you’re concerned? I apologize as well for overlooking this situation. As far as your job here is concerned…I’m hereby fully reinstating you as a member of the active roster.

The crowd starts to boo. Dona Rotten rolls her eyes and excuses herself from the ring. Haruka Fukuhara can’t hide the bit of relief in her eyes but she more or less looks at Jessica Clarkson-Morian with confusion as to what this will all lead to. On cue, the General Manager brings the microphone up after asking the crowd for silence again.

Jessica Clarkson-Morian: In the future? We’ll be in touch. I apologize to the ladies and gentlemen and children in the crowd. Here’s hoping y’all enjoy the rest of the show. Y’all have a nice evening and God bless.

She drops her arm with the microphone and turns to walk backstage again, leaving the crowd confused beyond all hell.

Jim Reynolds: What a weird end to a crazy start to our year end show. Are we sure she knows what she’s doing, Nicky?

Nick Hanson: She is still learning the job, Jim. She’s young. Cut her some slack.

Jim Reynolds: She forgets the most important things! Contract clauses included! That can lead to big problems!

Nick Hanson: You’re not wrong, but I digress. Well, ladies and gentlemen, we hope you enjoyed the action of tonight’s pre-show for what it was worth. Be sure to tune into Wrestle War XIX, Night 1 starting in less than five minutes! I’m positive you won’t wanna miss it!

Jim Reynolds: This is just another perfect example that the year 2022 is proper fucked and needs to get the hell outta here. But yes, on a lighter note! Make sure to order Wrestle War if you haven’t yet! Besides, it’s like they say! A broken clock is right twice a day!

Nick Hanson: Will you stop picking on her?!

Jim Reynolds: When she gives me a reason to.

Nick Hanson: Maybe she’ll wind up firing you instead.

The scene opens up in the trainer's room. We see Diamond Caldwell sitting on the trainers table having her right shoulder massaged by a female physician. Dat Girl has her eyes closed. Her mind appears to be someplace else while her shoulder is getting loosened up for her submission match later in the evening against Lana Corvin. A few moments later the door opens. In walks her wife, Crystal Caldwell with the Splat Multiverse Championship over her shoulder. She walks over to where Diamond is sitting. The Burning Rose takes a seat next to her wife. The minute she places her hand on Diamond’s thigh, Dat Girl opens her eyes. She turns to see Crystal sitting next to her. Both of them share a smile as they lock eyes. Diamond turns around to her masseuse.

Diamond Caldwell: “Do you mind giving us a moment?”

The physician nods. She leaves the room.

Diamond Caldwell: “To say this is a big night for both of us is an understatement. We’re both going to set the tone for both nights of Wrestle War. Ready to show everyone why it’s next to impossible to follow us?”

Crystal Caldwell: ”Of course I am ready, I am a Caldwell after all. It seems like a lot is on the line in both of our matches. We just need to do what we are best at. Go out to that match and win just like we always do! How are you feeling about what’s going to go down?! To be honest I am nervous. If things don’t go right this might be my last night in NFW.

Crystal smirks as she looks at the Splat Championship on her shoulders as she nods her head.

Crystal Caldwell: Then again I live to defy the rules of the Multiverse, and at least in this universe. This version of Christina Caldwell refuses to go down without people her best effort forward. I know it has been a rough year. I put you and Seleana in some tight spots that I wish I could take back. I am working my ass off to be better and the best way I can do that is by pouring my heart out for the world to see. Not hiding behind the mask that is the movie star who has to put up a facade to cry for attention. Instead I can be myself, which is the best wrestler in the world, and I will channel that same attitude in the ring tonight.

Crystal winks at Diamond.

Crystal Caldwell: The best wrestler in me, the best athlete in you, and the best mother in the world in Seleana. Who else are better than what the Caldwells are bringing to the table?!

Diamond Caldwell: We’ll see how good an athlete I am if Lana doesn’t rip my arm out its socket.

Diamond stretches out her right arm knowing that Lana is going to focus exclusively on it.

Diamond Caldwell: I wasn’t expecting a submission match. Suppose it makes sense. The last time we were in the ring the referee missed me tapping out. I owned up to that. I’ll never understand why Lana has been obsessed with me all these months. Be honest, I don’t care anymore. She can make a big deal about my undefeated streak. The world's commentary can blow it up. I don’t care about any of that. Don’t get me wrong, I am going out there tonight with the intent of choking Lana out. I made her tap before. I’ll repeat the feat one more time...

Crystal looks at her wife’s arm before smiling.

Crystal Caldwell: Submission sounds like a tough match but you are a woman who can be ruthless. I remember a woman who was a champion of the Goddess of the Cage in a company a long time ago. A match like that can favor you, and I believe in all of my heart that you will beat that bitch. Put an end to all of this and showcase why you are DAT GIRL and are the Diamond in the rough.

Diamond’s spirts brighten up the more she listens to the belief that Crystal has in her. She nods her head.

Diamond Caldwell: Damn straight. What is more important to me is showing that self entitled, arrogant piece of shit that you can’t keep me down. No matter what happens, win, lose or draw. Doesn’t matter the odds placed in front of me, no one is keeping this girl down. I pray to GOD I don’t see Lana’s face again for the foreseeable future. 2023, I become champion again. As far as tonight goes, I’m whooping some Corvin ass. Babe, do me one favor..

Diamond leans in and kisses her wife. With a smirk on her face she tells Crystal.

Diamond Caldwell: Don’t leave me. Don’t lose to dat bitch. You’re kinda the only person who’ll talk to me in this company. Don’t wanna be alone.

Diamond winks.

Crystal Caldwell: I am going to beat the unholy hell out of Jessi. I will admit that I am far from being a fist fighter. She did rock me in the catacombs. I did lose the fight and to that I will own up. However I am not a woman who gets paid to fight. I am acknowledged as one of the best women wrestlers ever. 21 World Championships, 4 different Hall of Fames, and I lost count of all of the secondary and tag team titles I won. I have wrestling in my blood and from both sides of my family. I don’t care what Jessi has been through or who cheers her on. She made this personal and tonight I am going to end her journey in NFW. She will have nobody to blame but herself and all of the Queens are going to go into disarray. They can all bring the Chaos but this Burning Rose intends to set this entire thing on fire. All of their dreams, aspirations, are going to go in flames when they see how I embarrass Jessi in that ring. Tonight I am finishing this once and for all.

Crystal cracks a serious expression as she looks deep into her wife’s eyes.

Crystal Caldwell: I have been looking for my break through moment in this company and tonight I feel like it’s going to be that night. This is you for you, it’s for Seleana, it’s for Aurora, for Isabella, but most of all I am going to do this for me. I NEED this Alex, and more than anyone could ever realize!

Diamond Caldwell: To that I say, go out there and seize the freaking moment.

Diamond pats Crystal on the knee.

Diamond Caldwell: Hate to see you go but your match is first. Better get a move on, babe. Don’t want to be late.

Crystal Caldwell: I won’t be… Tonight I bring that fire, I turn up the heat…I AM THE FIRE… FLAME ON!

Crystal smiles as she leaves the trainers room and head’s towards the ring.
In the backstage area, unsuspecting NFW crewmembers are taken aback by the Eternal Paladin running past them--

Jessica Matthews: Get out of the way! There’s a monster on the loose!

--and offering them a warning. Strange as it sounds, the heavy footsteps that follow after her come from Kosnar. The chase is still on and he’s unrelenting in obeying Daedalus’ command. The crewmembers are quick to get the hell out of dodge, trying to avoid confrontation with the Bodyguard of the Astro Creeps. Unfortunately, a young female crewmember trips and falls on the floor with a cry. Jessica hears this and quickly turns around. Kosnar’s about to run over the poor girl when Jessica runs forward and performs Captain America’s “Charging Star” with her braced shield! This actually knocks Kosnar back and allows the crewmember to escape. He attempts to grab Jessica’s shield, but she jumps back right before he can lay a finger on it. She’s about to charge Kosnar again when--

Daedalus: ENOUGH!

--the Architect’s yell resonates throughout the hall. Jessica halts herself but stands on the defense. Kosnar ceases his movements, shadowing his target with a growl. Daedalus makes his presence known, his hands in his pockets and his eyes narrowed on the Nerd Extraordinaire.

Daedalus: Kosnar, you may go now.

For a moment, the larger man doesn’t move. Suddenly, Daedalus raises his voice.

Daedalus: NOW!

This time, Kosnar obeys his command and withdraws. He doesn’t even look back at the two as he leaves. Jessica’s eyes stay on Kosnar until he’s gone, then she shifts her attention to…

Jessica Matthews: Daedalus.

Daedalus: Mrs. Matthews.

He scowls. She smirks.

Jessica Matthews: You look like you’ve seen a ghost. Never thought you were going to see me again, did you?

Daedalus: Only in my wildest dreams… and yet here you are. Like a prophecy in the Bible, the little Paladin has returned! Her broken wings were clipped, her feathers were strewn about, and oh, the blood on her hands…

She doesn’t allow him a chance to play the field.

Jessica Matthews: I saved her life.

Daedalus: You extended the pain and suffering. By “saving her life”, your sister-in-law Jasmine’s arm was broken, one of her wives, Lilith Meadows, went completely mad, and her Kingdom turned to ash and dust. It’s really no wonder why they cannot forgive you.

Yet he plays it well. He knows the cross she bears. Now their roles reverse and they wear each other’s expressions. He smirks. She scowls.

Jessica Matthews: This isn’t about the Kingdom. This is about me. This is about you, Kosnar, and Pisces nearly ending my life. This is about revenge.

The change of subject draws a feigned shock to Daedalus’s features.

Daedalus: Oh, dear. That’s quite a bold statement. Do you have any evidence, Mrs. Matthews? Your tears and scars don’t count!

She braces her shield on her right arm and takes a step forward. He raises his hands.

Daedalus: I know you. You won’t hurt me. After all, I’m an unarmed non-combatant. I, on the other hand, can hurt you in so many ways. Oh, yes! This little Oath of Vengeance of yours… My dear Jessica, please break it. Because if you don’t…? I fear what will happen to your darling little children!

Her soft blue eyes widened. For a moment, she doesn’t move an inch.

Jessica Matthews: ...you wouldn’t…

Daedalus: Wouldn’t I, my beloved?

A Chesire-like grin sprawls across his face as he giggles like mad. It sends a chill down her spine. Maybe it’s a bluff, but she can’t take that chance. Not when it concerns her little ones. Without another word, Daedalus turns his back on her and leaves. Jessica stands alone for a moment, her emotional intensity high and her fists clenched tightly.

---