NFW Trauma #143 - 03/23/2024!

Trauma opens up immediately to the sounds of “God is Dead?” by Black Sabbath and the fans heaping a mixed, but negative-leaning, reaction towards the man in the ring: the New Frontier Champion, Damon Cross! He stands in the middle of a spotlight with the rest of the arena mostly darkened around him, save for the many cell phone lights held up by the NFW faithful. The title gleams over the champion’s shoulder as he gazes out towards the fans, a serious look on his face.

Seth Ernst: Welcome to Trauma, fans! We’re just about to hear from the New Frontier Champion and it doesn’t look like he’s in a pleasant mood!

Miranda Augustino: Can’t say I blame him, really! The man has earned his respect and his flowers, yet people keep sticking their nose in his business and wasting his precious time! I’d be irked, too!

Seth Ernst: Are you saying Kai Morgan is a waste of Damon’s time?

Miranda Augustino: I’m just saying he could have picked a better spot than to interrupt the glory of the new champion, that’s all!

“God is Dead?” fades out and, while the cameras were on the commentary team, a table and chair have been set up in the ring. Damon takes a familiar book out of his jacket and puts it on the table, then sets an apple next to it. A bit of a return to form for the champion, who then takes a seat at the table himself and places the title belt on display for the world to see before folding his hands in front of him, still clasping the microphone.

Damon Cross: Revenge is an admission of suffering. Anger is an admission of immaturity. Arrogance is an admission of insecurity.

The fans murmur at this, but Damon doesn’t offer much silence for rumination. His tone is, as per usual, low and calm, forcing people to pay attention in order to get the message.

Damon Cross: A year ago, give or take, this championship belonged to a man who has the temerity to call himself the World Breaker. Twice, if memory serves, he defended the title against me. And twice he left those matches with it still in his possession. And had he accomplished on his own merits, I might have call to question myself. But that isn’t the truth, is it?

Without looking in that direction, Damon holds up a finger, and the screen comes to life with the final moments of Trauma #96 on February 11th of last year!



When the replay fades, the camera is on Cross again and he’s still staring straight ahead. The fans boo at the sight of that moment, but without waiting long, Cross holds up TWO fingers this time, bringing up another clip, this time from March 25th of the same year: the March Mayhem PPV! Once more, we’re taken to the final moments of the Triple Threat Main Event Ladder Match for the New Frontier Championship!


And, once again, as the clip ends we see Cross staring straight ahead. He lowers his hand and the screen returns to cycling through his “Cross Aeternum” logo as the man himself picks up and examines the microphone quietly, the fans booing harder than ever!

But are they booing Cross? Or something, someone, else?

Seth Ernst: As much as I hate agreeing with Damon, given the attitude he’s shown of late, he’s… well, he’s not wrong.

Miranda Augustino: It’s right there for the world to see, Seth! Twice Kai defended the title against Damon, and twice there were shenanigans!

Seth Ernst: Okay, but in the second instance, Damon took his eye off the match-

Miranda Augustino: Advocates are supposed to advocate, not get physically involved!

After a few more moments of quiet, Damon finally speaks up again.

Damon Cross: By my hand is the history and future of NFW written, Kai Morgan, and the truth is a weapon I wield with extreme prejudice. Do you hear these fans right now? The same people who lauded your return mere weeks ago? Do you hear the vitriol they’re unleashing? That isn’t for me, Kai. It’s for you.

Seth Ernst: Maybe not all of it, but-

Miranda Augustino: A lot of it, in my estimation!

One would expect Damon to smile about this. He does not.

Damon Cross: These fans have no use for your antics and attempts at redemption, Kai. Truth.

More boos from the fans!

Damon Cross: You have yet to prove that you can beat me, one-on-one, without distraction or interference. Truth.

They’re getting more and more riled now!

Damon Cross: March Mayhem, one year hence from our last physical encounter, is where I right the wrongs of history. Truth.

Damon takes a bite of the apple, then sets it aside. He picks up the championship and stares at it with a fierce look in his eye. Finally cracking a small smile, Damon turns the title so that the world can see it clearly.

Damon Cross: World Breaker…

The champion scoffs, rising slowly to his feet. The championship is draped over his shoulder, the book put away, and the apple munched on thoughtfully for a moment or two.

Damon Cross: ...meet the Godkiller.

All but ignoring the fans at this point, the champion’s full attention is on the challenger.

Damon Cross: It’s time for you to learn your place, Kai. Warriors of a higher caliber do not waste time or energy answering the challenges of upstarts. They damn sure don’t allow themselves to be smacked around by their ilk and made to look weak or cowardly.

Seth Ernst: Pretty sure he’s referring to what went down between Kai and James Michael Robinson a few weeks ago. But Kai DID beat James for the shot at Damon’s title!

Miranda Augustino: A match that probably shouldn’t have happened in the first place! I like James, don’t get me wrong, but he’s not at Damon’s level yet, or at Kai’s!

Smirking, knowing that everyone is aware of who he’s talking about but not giving the man the honor of having the champion say his name, Cross continues.

Damon Cross: I’d say you have it coming for daring to try and steal my thunder, but the truth of the matter is that I knew it would eventually come to this. There’s no way that that which makes you a man could allow you to not take a stab at regaining this championship upon your return, Kai. It was merely a matter of when and how. And, oh, how the stars have aligned for this. But it won’t go down like last year, that I promise you. No advocates, no arrogant fops, no loudmouthed upstarts, no bullshit. Just you, Kai Morgan, and the Godkiller. And when that final bell rings…

He pauses, closing his eyes and taking in a deep, cleansing breath. Then he locks in on the camera, which tightens up the shot.

Damon Cross: ...you’re going to understand what being truly defeated feels like. And you’re going to carry that home with you. Home to Kyle Junior. To look into his eyes, full of life, love, and hope, and realize that you couldn’t do it for him. That, though, isn’t the worst part.

Seth Ernst: Might be going too far here!

That smirk again!

Damon Cross: The worst part is that, some twenty years down the road, give or take a few, when you and I have hung up the boots and are living happily in retirement? You’re going to feel that loss all over again when Kyle Junior gets his ass stomped by Gavin, standing over him as I’ll be standing over you at the end of March Mayhem!

Miranda Augustino: Shots irrevocably fired!

Seth Ernst: Kai isn’t gonna take well to that!

Miranda Augustino: Good!

The fans are heaping hate on Damon, but as “God is Dead?” plays again, he holds that title up for another moment or two, then leaves the ring to head backstage! Some are even throwing things, but none of it stalls Cross, who holds up the strap again before walking through the curtain!
The camera comes up in the middle of the ring, and Nakita is standing in the middle of the ring with a mic resting by her side. She's wearing a black crop top, pants, and black-heeled boots. Her black hair is tied in a pony, and you can see her bringing the mic up to her mouth.

NAKITA NILES: Seems like it has been awhile since I have been in the middle of the ring and sometimes wondered if NFW forgot about me. Every Saturday, I'm at this arena and stuck in the catering section where there's no camera showing.

She takes a moment to gather her thoughts while lowering her head. It was like something was wrong, and she couldn't pinpoint it.

NAKITA NILES: When I first started wrestling, I wanted to prove to the world that anything is possible as long as you can dream it. I dreamed of being one of the best, but here I have been since coming back and losing my match. I then go home to sit in my chair to gather my thoughts.

She hates speaking about her life at home, knowing how emotional she can be.

NAKITA NILES: I thought I was doing everything right about my life. I think about my sisters in the Queens of Chaos and seeing them succeed. There are times when everyone cheers for them and felt like I was left out in the dust.

She lifts her head, and you can see how upset she is about everything. You can see the message in her eyes.

NAKITA NILES: But there's one thing that I know I still have and that's the heart. I may be at my lowest point in my life right now, but I promise you and everyone that I'm going to dig myself out of the slump that I'm in. Everyone has the lowest point in their life, and I'm no different. Tonight, I am going up against Jasmine Matthews and whether I win or I lose, I'm going to keep my head up.

She moved towards the rope and rested her hand on it as she gripped it tightly. The camera moves towards her as she gives off a smile.

NAKITA NILES: I will always do my duty, no matter the price. I'm an American soldier, and I will never quit. I am the soldier of the Queens of Chaos. I will do what I must to prove why I do the heavy lifting of this group. Tonight, I'm going to prove that once and for all.

She moves back as she drops the mic and gets out of the ring as "Strife" starts to play over the P.A system. She walks up the ramp, gets on stage, and walks backstages as the scene fades to black.
The camera shifts from inside the arena and all the hustle and bustle of the night's events to a shot of the outside of the arena. People were milling around talking about the events that had transpired when three figures came into view.

One of them was a blonde woman of perhaps 40, Maybe a little older. More than a little thick around the middle with long straight dull blonde hair, portly cheeks, and a cigarette hanging out of her mouth.

With her was a man of the same age range. He was as portly and unkempt as she was with curly brown hair and scruff on his chin, cheeks, neck, and throat.

The pair of them wore ratty clothes made up of T-shirts and Jeans….not homeless, just extremely poor.

The third was the youngest of the group by far. He stood a head taller than the other man with short blonde hair and a well-trimmed, but mangy beard. Glasses covered his eyes, even in the dark and he wore a pair of blue jeans and a jogging suit top.

In his held-up hand was a pair of what appeared to be tickets to the show.

Man: “I got two! Who needs tickets!? I got two!”

A sudden ear-bending belch broke the silence….not from the man with him but from the woman of all things. The scraggly-looking man threw his arms up and shouted.

Older Man: “How the fuck are we supposed to sell these with you out here actin' like a farm animal woman?!”

Older Woman: “Nobody fuckin asked you Cletus!”

As a pair of security walked out the younger man holding up the tickets suddenly lowered his hand to hide the tickets as the sound of aluminum bouncing off skin was heard. Behind him, just over his left shoulder a beer can, luckily empty, bounced off the older man’s head….thrown by his wife.

Security Officer #1: “Any sign of him yet?”

Security Officer #2: “Not a peep. Whitikar, remember that.”

The man caused the man in the glasses to snap his head around. The memory of what he had seen a few weeks ago rang clear through his mind. The pair of scalped tickets were tossed absentmindedly away as he approached the pair of security guards reaching into his back pocket.

Younger Man: “You waiting on someone?”

The two security guards each looked at one another and then at him. From his back pocket, he withdrew his wallet and folded it open to show the photo I.D. with the name “Lawrence Whittikar.”

The pair of security guards immediately changed their disgusted tone and looked on in awe.

Security Officer #1: “You look different! I was expecting someone taller from your video.”

Lawrence Whittikar: “I get that a lot.”

Security Officer #1: “We were expecting you from the staff entrance.”

Lawrence Whittikar: “Never do what they expect from you. The best lesson I can teach you!”

The two men looked on in awed appreciation as behind them the older couple turned their attention to the trio.

Older Man: “The hell you going, boy?! The girl is waiting on us to make rent.”

Security Officer #2: “You know them?”

Lawrence Whittikar: “Never heard of em. I think they’re selling fake tickets. Might wanna run them off.”

The older of the pair of security guards radioed into Mr. Brody that his new talent had arrived while the other immediately headed out to break up the illegal activity of the older couple and the younger man walked into the building with a grin.
The scene cuts backstage, to a simple locker room where ‘The Dragon’ Travis Levitt is sitting, arms on his knees and a glare in his eyes. Looking down at his phone for a moment and then slipping it into his pocket, The Dragon bounces up and starts pacing back and forth, frustration and anger coursing through him, before there’s a bang on the door, and a moment later it opens and in walks Bianca Page! Travis turns to face her, taking a single step towards her, with that same stare in his eyes.

Travis Levitt: Bianca. I heard Will’s getting better.

Classy Bianca Page: You heard? It would have been better if you came to visit him considering you’re the reason he is recovering right now!

Travis creases his eyes but then sighs and shakes his head.

Travis Levitt: I know. And I wanted to visit but…..Will said not to.

Classy Bianca Page: You know how he is. He doesn’t want to be a bother but you know visiting him would’ve been the right thing to do!

Travis Levitt: Would it?

Travis pauses and gives a small shrug before he shakes his head.

Travis Levitt: Will asked me not to visit, because he doesn’t want to be a message. He wants me to kick the crap out of Kuali’i, and I will. But if God boy wants to send a message, he chose the wrong recipient. Ryder’s not going to let himself be used by anybody. Not Kuali’i. Not me. Maybe you. Just a little bit by you.

The anger is slowly fading as Travis talks, watching Page’s eyes closely.

Classy Bianca Page: Then you fix it and it better be sooner rather than later! Because I’ve been the one seeing Ryder recovering all week!

Travis Levitt: You have my word, B. Come March Mayhem, Kuali’i is getting receipts for last week and then some. I don’t know what the wheel has in store….but after seeing him attack my friend like that, I’m really hoping it's something nice and brutal I can send him some pain with.

Bianca pauses as she absorbs everything Travis says showing a crack of vulnerability under her normally confident exterior.

Classy Bianca Page: I’ll be watching how you handle this and I’ll be at March Mayhem to make sure things get handled and Kual’i gets his comeuppance.

Travis Levitt: So….truce then?

Travis holds a hand out towards Bianca, a small smile on his face. Bianca reaches out and shakes Travis’ hand.

Classy Bianca Page: Truce…For Ryder.

Travis Levitt: Do me one favour? Make sure the hospital has a spare bed near Will. So after March Mayhem, I can give Will a good view of the damage I do to a God.

Classy Bianca Page: I can do that but you know he’d love to hear it from you too. I hope you atleast call him soon.

Travis Levitt: I will. I promise. Now, go take good care of our boy. And I’ll focus on getting revenge for him.

Classy Bianca Page: Just remember I’m also a phone call away if anything is needed and money is no object to quench my vengeance.

Travis Levitt: Something tells me, regardless of what I do at Mayhem, a certain God is going to have a lot of people coming after him. But I appreciate the offer, Bianca. Will’s lucky to have you.

Classy Bianca Page: I can say the same about you.

And with that, Page turns and leaves the room, Travis watching her go before he sits back down, hands clenched and eyes on the ground, lost back in his thoughts as the scene fades out.
Teresa Morgan was pacing around backstage in her ring gear, she was clearly ready for her match as far as those preparations went, but there was no telling where she was mentally. After all, her match would be her biggest one in NFW so far considering she was going against a former top champion. Various members of the backstage crew walked past her, and the former head of hair/make-up gave them smiles and nods as they moved beyond her, trying to be careful not to let her nerves show or get the best of her.

Teresa Morgan: Come on Teej…you got this. You act like you haven’t faced a top, or former top, champion before. And just like you did then, you’ll give it your all tonight.

As she continues pacing, she almost bumps into her opponent for the evening, Stacy Jones as she appears within camera shot. A faint pop can be heard coming from the sold out crowd upon her arrival which causes both women to briefly turn their attention in the direction the sound came from, Jones smiles at the sound of it while Morgan’s expression appears to show her nerves even more than before.

Stacy Jones: Bad time?

Teresa rubbed the back of her neck and gave a weak smile before she shook her head no. In reality, it wasn’t a bad time, but she knew she probably didn’t actually give the appearance of that being the case.

Teresa Morgan: Technically no…just talking to myself is all. That’s what all the sane people do, right?

Teresa let out a weak chuckle, another small smile coming across her features as she looked down at Stacy.

Teresa Morgan: Just dealing with a small case of nerves is all. I’ve had some good matches in Zion, but I don’t know. There’s something different about being on the roster in NFW considering Adri trained me, and this has been her stomping grounds for so long.

The Unbreakable One folds her arms across her stomach and sways back and forth a little and nods.

Stacy Jones: Ah yes… Adrianna… the same Adrianna who upon my return from my near career threatening injury showed me respect after she beat me and welcomed me back… only to then throw that same respect I tried to show her back in my face later when I defeated her while I was still NFW Champion…

Jones smirks and shakes her head slightly.

Stacy Jones: Anyway… that’s neither here nor there and has no bearing on our friendship. I’m not going to stand here and tell you who you can and can’t be friends with. But yes, here in NFW is a lot different from Zion. Obviously both companies have exceptional talent, I should know as I was in the ring against one during the Invasion between the two companies… well… she used to be in Zion anyway. But again, that’s all besides the point, Teej. You say you're nervous? Well guess what? So am I. That’s how I always feel going into every match I have and I’ve gone on record to say that the moment I stop feeling nervous before a match is when I should hang up the boots for good. I’m nervous because I have never faced you before, and I’ve seen you in the ring and what you can do and from someone who started out as a makeup and hair stylist? You’re damn good between those ropes. And I know why you’re nervous… and you should be… and I’m not saying that as a threat, I’m simply just being honest with you. So far this year I have had one match… just one match… a rematch from WrestleWar against Damon Cross for the NFW Championship that he beat me for… and as you can see from the lack of hardware over my shoulder… I lost. So despite the fact that I know you’ll fight your ass off out there against me tonight in hopes of toppling another former top champion? I’m going to be fighting my ass off tonight simply because I need to get back into my winning ways… to remind everyone who Stacy Jones is… to make sure they realize who’s house this is. It’s that simple.

Teresa Morgan: That’s fair…she’s not everyone’s cup of tea, and I get that.

Teresa shrugged a little then nodded as she listened to what Stacy had to say. To her? It all made sense.

Teresa Morgan: You and I got into this sport for very different reasons, Stacy. And you’ve been doing this a lot longer than I have…your career and record says so much for who you are as a wrestler.

Teresa paused for a second as she looked at the other woman, a look of respect coming across her features as she did.

Teresa Morgan: It’s been your house, yes, but…and I mean this as respectfully as possible, new talent is moving in. Most of us are just as hungry as you’ve been your entire career. It’s our turn now.

Stacy Jones: I can respect that. In that case? May the better woman win tonight.

The Unbreakable One then offers her hand to Morgan for a handshake.

Teresa Morgan: Indeed…may the better woman win.

Teresa smiled and shook Stacy’s hand, giving her a small nod as they released the handshake. Giving one last nod and smile, Teresa turned on her heel and walked off to try and shake off the nerves a little, leaving Stacy standing there as the view faded out.
Once again the camera shifts to the backstage area, but this time it is into the office of Steven Brody where he and Leann Viskan are standing watching Trauma’s newest talent sign his contract. Lawrence Whittikar made sure and signed it with both T’s so he couldn’t be accused of fraud….if it came to that and then tossed the pen down on the desk.

Steven Brody: “Well, Mr. Whitikar, I’m happy to officially welcome you to the roster.”

Lawrence Whittikar: “That’s cool. So, uh….how does this work? When do I gotta be here?”

LeeAnn Viskan: “Mr. Brody and the company handle all travel and hotel stays. We’ll contact you when you are booked.”

Lawrence Whittikar: “Yeah, about that. I may need to update my contact information. My phone was stolen so I moved.”

Brody raised an eyebrow at that.

Steven Brody: “You moved because… your phone was stolen?”

Lawrence Whittikar: “Of course. You don’t?”

The types of weird rituals people in this business have is no stranger to Mr. Brody but even he had to admit this one was…perhaps one of the weirdest ones. Leann seeing the confused expression on her boss's face just gave Lawrence the warmest smile.

LeeAnn Viskan: “Of course, just leave me with the updated information and I will see to it that it is updated.”

Lawrence Whittikar: “Cool….Cool. So….”

Lawrence bounced a bit on his heels and looked around, scanning the room for things of value.

Lawrence Whittikar: “Uh…Anything else?”

LeeAnn Viskan: “This….is yours.”

Leann pulled a small envelope from inside her suit top and held it out.

Steven Brody: “Your signing bonus.”

Lawrence Whittikar: “My damn what now?!”

Lawrence nearly snatched the envelope from her hand and looked inside. Upon seeing the amount on the check the man’s heart nearly stopped. He had hoped he could get inside and steal something….but this was even better.

The ideas began to float into his head at all of the possibilities that presented themselves. This was even more lucrative than he had thought. Suddenly he looked down at the check and then down at the contract and frowned.

LeeAnn Viskan: “Something wrong Mr. Whitaker?”

Lawrence Whittikar: “Y…Yeah. You uh….you spelt my name wrong.”

Steven and Leann both looked down at the contract and he laid the check out on the desk as well. All spelled Lawrence Whitikar.

Lawrence Whittikar: “It’s all cool and all but…two T’s in Whittikar.”

Steven took the contract off the desk and slammed Leann in the arm with it playfully. Leann laughed and walked away pulling her phone out. Steven placed his hand on Lawrence’s arm assuringly.

Steven Brody: “All the clauses were agreed to beforehand, she can have it contracted and another check printed out in ten minutes.”

Lawrence Whittikar: “Cool. Cool. Gotta make this all…legally binding and all.”

Suddenly the walkie on the desk crackled and a voice came through.

Security Guard: “Mr. Brody? We have a wrestler out here that says he’s here for a contract.”

Brody frowned and looked behind him at the man in the glasses. Lawrence waved his hand dismissively and laughed.

Lawrence Whittikar: “That may be my fault Mr. Brody. I may have told a couple of my….Uh…”

There was a faint pause as he considered the word then snapped his fingers.

Lawrence Whittikar: “...Indy! A couple of my Indy buddies about this chance and I think they wanted a tryout.”

Brody smiled and nodded then brought the walkie up.

Steven Brody: “Could you please tell them that NFW is capped at the moment but we appreciate their looking at us to do business.”

Security Guard: “Yessir.”
"Annihilate" by Robert Slump starts and the arena goes black except for the big screen which displays the countdown from 5 to 1 along with the music. When the countdown finishes, the word Annihilate appears as explosions in purple and gold go off at the entrance and a spotlight hits the stage showing Orphynn standing with her arms folded and nodding her head. She starts making her way to the ring as the lights return to normal and she takes time with the fans. Orphynn eventually gets to the ring and requests a microphone as the crowd hushes to hear her out.

Orphynn: Firstly, let me congratulate Mr. Shakedown for giving me a challenge last week. I had to pull out some not so normal defensive moves and adapt my offense to get the win against an opponent of his size. So, Shakedown, thank you for bringing out that side of me and for the match last week.

The crowd cheers in response.

Orphynn: Now, for the reason I came out here tonight... Few athletes in this industry are willing to put their bodies on the line in order to gain victory. Some take these high risks for the high reward, and while some achieve, others crash and burn. It's a fighting style I didn't adopt, but I can completely respect. What am I getting at here?

Orphynn begins to pace in the ring as she speaks.

Orphynn: LeeAnn Viskan, our General Manager, has had a bit of an issue as of late with a member of our roster and his backstage antics. This roster member has been destroying tables and various other pieces of equipment, so I can see how he can be a bit of a liability to management. The roster member I'm referring to is none other than Jimmy Bones.

Stopping mid-ring, Orphynn looks down for a moment as if choosing her words, then back up to the camera.

Orphynn: Jimmy reminds me of a cat. When cats don't get enough attention from their owners, they tend to act up in destructive ways. LeeAnn, give this cat some attention and channel that destruction more constructively. I feel Jimmy isn't getting the opportunity his dedication and talent deserves.

Miranda Augustino: Is she seriously wasting her time talking about enhancement talent?

Lucas Knox: That's what it sounds like.

Orphynn: Jimmy Bones has been a part of NFW's roster for almost 4 years and that time was spent helping more marketable roster members to get over with the fans. I feel Jimmy is marketable himself because he's obviously got the look fans of all ages can get behind and his antics have gotten the roster talking backstage. GM Viskan, don't sleep on this man's natural talent, but use it to your advantage to gain more ticket sales and more eyes on this show. If what he does backstage is any indication of what he's capable of doing in the ring if given a fair opportunity, he's obviously got the ability to rise to the top, so I say give him that chance and let him shine.

As Orphynn begins pacing and choosing words again, the crowd responds.

Crowd: Let him shine! Let him shine! Let him shine!

Orphynn: How can you begin to do that? Well, I'm willing to face Jimmy Bones in the ring myself and, honestly, that'll probably be a loss for him that week. That's alright because I have no problem facing him again another week. If he loses to me a second time, then let's have one more match. If he doesn't defeat me after a third match, then I'll accept my error in judgment, but if he does get a victory within three matches, that could be the beginning of his journey to becoming what I know he can be. What NFW fans know he can be!

The crowd cheers and chants more.

Orphynn: I'm new to the company, so I don't have much sway, but he's putting forth the effort to promote himself online. That's a change in attitude from what I've been told and it deserves a change in career path within NFW. LeeAnn and NFW management, the ball is in your court, you've got nothing to lose. You either prove me wrong and I drop the whole issue, or you'll be giving him an opportunity to let 2024 be the year that Jimmy Bones becomes the break-out star I feel he's destined to be. When that happens, the fans and I will be here for it.

Orphynn nods her head and hands the microphone back as "Annihilate" plays again.

Miranda Augustino: NFW must be scraping the bottom of the barrel for talent and started hiring crazy people.

Seth Ernst: NFW has had their share of crazy people on the roster, but Orphynn doesn't seem that crazy to me.

Lucas Knox: She's raised money for charity and now she's doing charity work on behalf of the roster.

The cameras follow Orphynn as she celebrates with the fans on her way out of the ringside area and to the back.
Backstage in the Colosseum, Stefan Robsinon was seen in his ring gear already, seemingly getting ready for his match at the end of the night against Damon Cross. He could be seen stretching his arms across his chest then shaking them out. After a few moments of this, he noticed the camera that had found him and gave a little grin.

Stefan Robinson: Tonight I have a non-title match against Damon Cross. The man is a multi-time champion and is the champion for a reason.

Stefan paused for a moment, shaking his head a little.

Stefan Robinson: I could go on the whole speech about how I’m not like the others that Damon has faced, but the man has faced all sorts of people. He could have easily faced someone at least similar to me, so I won’t bore everyone with that whole overly done bit.

Another pause as Stefan looked around the backstage area, watching the various workers moving around the busy building.

Stefan Robinson: What I will say however is that it’s very unlikely he’s faced anyone with the determination and fire that I have…at least in the most recent of weeks. That’s not to say that Kai Morgan and my husband don’t have the fire and determination because I know damn well they do, but they haven’t actually faced Damon yet.

Stefan ran his hand through his hair, getting some of it out of his face as he did. A determined look was now on his face as he looked at the camera.

Stefan Robinson: You may try to make an example of me tonight, Damon, but I won’t make it easy for you. I won’t allow you to walk all over me nor should you expect an easy fight out of me either. You can bet on that.

Stefan simply shook his head before turning on his heel and walking off.
LeeAnn Viskan: Whoa whoa whoa, put a pause on that for a minute.

Bianca’s music switches off during her post match celebration as the cameras find General Manager LeeAnn Viskan walking out onto the stage with a microphone in one hand and a set of papers in the other.

Seth Ernst: Ms. Viskan folks!

Lucas Knox: Boss lady looks like she’s got something on her mind!

Seth Ernst: We’re about to find out.

LeeAnn Viskan: Well now…

LeeAnn gives a forced smile as she stands on the stage, watching Bianca Davis in the ring as her entourage surrounds her. She holds that forced smile as she shakes her head.

LeeAnn Viskan: Wasn’t that just…an absolute show stopper? I should have put that as the main event, what do you guys think?

The crowd responds with a chorus of boos. LeeAnn looks around then gives Bianca a look as if to say “the people have spoken” before she continues.

LeeAnn Viskan: Bianca, I have to hand it to you. You got one over on me with this little clause of yours. I can’t say very many people have done that. It’s taught me that you can’t rely on someone else to handle important matters, you have to do everything yourself. So I was looking over your contract again and I kept reading over that part because something didn’t seem right. I felt like I was missing something. So let’s go over it together, shall we?

LeeAnn lifts the papers up and reads into the microphone for everyone to hear.

LeeAnn Viskan: ”It is hereby also decreed, that her illustrious majesty…” Jesus fucking Christ, who wrote this up? Was it you, Simon? You pompous little penguin?

The crowd roars with laughter, even commentary loses it as Simon’s jaw drops and he gets angry, yelling at the crowd to shut up then shouting under the camera mics that LeeAnn can’t talk to him like that.

LeeAnn Viskan: Put a sock of nickels in it before I hit you with one. Now, where was it? Right. “It is hereby also decreed, that her illustrious majesty, Queen Bianca Davis. The first of her name. Queen of Professional Wrestling”.....

LeeAnn stops again and looks at the group in the ring with a face that just says ”Really?” She rolls her eyes and continues.

LeeAnn Viskan: ”...shall have the distinct privilege of hand selecting opponents against whom she shall complete her mandatory defenses, each week on broadcasts of Saturday Night Trauma.” For the love of…

The General Manager lowers the papers in her hand and rolls her eyes again.

LeeAnn Viskan: I keep reading this, I’m gonna end up seeing what I had for lunch. Now, like I said, I gotta hand it to you Bianca: you got one up on me. Kudos to ya. You know what I realized though? This right here?

She raises the contract up again to the crowd.

LeeAnn Viskan: It says Saturday Night Trauma. You know what it doesn’t say you get to choose on?

She pauses again, waiting to see if it sinks in before she goes on.

LeeAnn Viskan: ...NFW monthly supercards. So, what does that mean? Why, we just happen to have one of those…let’s see..oh! Right! Next week! It’s fucking March Mayhem, ladies and gents, and I know everyone here’s still wondering what the rest of the title matches are gonna look like! Well, ask and ye shall most definitely, fucking receive, not so loyal subjects! Next week, March 30th, at March Mayhem V, Bianca Davis, you will defend the NFW Genesis Championship against—

Bianca Davis: Hold on, did you read it further because there is one special thing that was added in, I know, I know you should thank me for all of this I truly do make this title, and this company a better place because of all I do.

Bianca raises her hand high in the air in smug glory as the fans boo loudly at the pompous Queen. LeeAnn looks at the papers in her hand then back up at Bianca, lifting the microphone.

LeeAnn Viskan: You know what then? Since you love hearing yourself talk so much why don’t you tell me what I’m missing in here, because whether it was you, your lawyers or that snot nosed little weasel standing next to you–

Again, she points to Simon just to get a reaction out of him.

LeeAnn Viskan: --this fucking contract reads like the biggest load of bullshit I’ve ever laid eyes on.

LeeAnn lowers the mic, waiting.

Bianca Davis: Oh don’t worry I will and bullshit oh no, no its all binding see being outsmarted by The Queen is just something that happens I have the lawyers, the resources, and the brains to get what I want, and at any time I desire. And at March Mayhem I won’t be defending see its is a very special day and a day I deserve to celebrate see its the birthday of the Duchess and we will be having a live in ring celebration for that. That means all of you commoners get to see a royal birthday party aren’t you all so excited?

The fans groan with loud boos as the haughty Queen rolls her eyes. As Bianca speaks, LeeAnn is seen turning the pages over, back and forth, scanning the entire document until she settles on one page in particular. As Bianca finishes, the General Manager drops her arm and looks up at the ring again with the champ and her entourage all wearing smug smiles. LeeAnn doesn’t even have the words as Bianca’s music resumes.

Lucas Knox: Wait a sec, Seth! Is she telling us she isn’t contractually obligated to defend the title next week?!

Seth Ernst: That’s exactly what she’s saying and by the look on the face of Ms. Viskan, it’s all there, black and white, clear as crystal.
Everything comes into focus and as it does we are treated to the backstage area of the area. Where are able to see the US Champion and today Crystal Zdunich is wearing a red, white, and blue wig. She has a pair of shades on and is clad in a pair of tight jeans and a top. She smirks as the title is across her shoulders and she begins to speak.

Crystal Hilton: CHICAGO WHAT IS HAPPENING?!?! It feels good to be here tonight and I have to say that it felt good being able to watch to see what Hideo is all about. Hideo has the skills, the talent, and all of the ability in the world. I know he is going to feel really honored to be in the ring with me and I just know for a fact that the two of us are going to really put on a show that the crowd will remember for a lifetime. There’s no doubt in my mind that the two of us are going to create magic inside of that ring and it’s going to be a match that will definitely be remembered.

Crystal smiles as she nods her head in agreement and she continues to speak.

Crystal Hilton: Be it as it may as much as I do respect him and he is definitely going to bring that high speed and young energetic attitude. The fact of the matter is I am going to make sure that I am that much better. I haven’t busted my ass this much so that I could drop the ball. I plan to give everything I have to defend my title because at the end of the day the title is something that I have worked hard for. It took me two long hard fought years to get to where I am. Some people may have been an overnight sensation within NFW and they can instantly climb through the ranks to get to where they want to be but that wasn’t the case with me. It took me a damn long time and it’s not something that I am embarrassed about. However the grind has helped make me into who I am and I should be appreciative of the steps it took to get here.

She nods her head as she begins to get more passionate about what she is saying.

Crystal Hilton: March Mayhem I am going to show that I still have so much left in this tank and that everything I had worked so damn hard for isn’t going to go away in the snap of a finger. I have to continue to bust my ass and I will continue to elevate this US Championship into being one of the most prestigious championships to fight for on Trauma. I don’t like Lana Corvin. It’s a known fact that she doesn’t give a shit about me but what I can say about of respect is that she made this title to what it is today. She elevated it up and the moment that I beat her is the very moment that I knew I had something to work towards as well. I can’t waste this opportunity as if it didn’t matter. So I have to do everything in the best of my ability to carry on the legacy. I have to be a fighting champion and the grind will continue. So at March Mayhem you better be ready Hideo because I am coming after you with everything I got and when everything settles I plan to hear AND STILL by the end of the night. Best of luck but this rose is ready to wither just yet. I will blossom and I will grow into being one of the most dominant stars that Trauma has to offer.

With that she raises her title high into the air as we fade out on this image and go elsewhere.
In the backstage area of the wrestling arena, Rylie confronts Utami, her frustration evident in her voice and demeanor.

Rylie Page: (eyes narrowed) You know damn well we needed that win, Utami. They screwed me over at Rise of Legends, and you let it happen. And let's not forget, I wasn't the one who got pinned to lose that tag match. That was all on you.

Utami's expression tightens, a mixture of guilt and defensiveness crossing her features.

Utami Takahashi: (hesitant) I know, Rylie, and I'm sorry. I messed up, okay? But we're a team, and we win and lose together.

Rylie scoffs, shaking her head in disbelief.

Rylie Page: (dismissive) Spare me the excuses, Utami. This isn't about winning or losing together. This is about you dropping the ball when it mattered most. And now, because of you, we're back at square one.

Utami's shoulders sag, a flicker of remorse in her eyes as she realizes the weight of her mistake.

Utami Takahashi: (softly) I'll make it up to you, Rylie. I promise.

But Rylie's expression remains hardened, her trust in her partner shaken.

Rylie Page: (coldly) You better. Because next time, I won't be so forgiving.
Backstage, Ashley Kenyon sits at a computer terminal as the camera opens upon her. She’s told everything is ready for her and she nods.

Ashley Kenyon: So here we go with a…

She pauses and looks up.

Ashley Kenyon: Are we calling this a remote interview, an online Q & A or…

She’s told the answer and nods.

Ashley Kenyon: Is there anything I’m not allowed to mention?

Again, the answer comes quickly and Ashley just shakes her head.

Ashley Kenyon: Alright, fuck it, here goes nothin’.

She looks down at the screen for the first question.

Ashley Kenyon: Why do you always end up doing things by yourself?

Ashley shrugs.

Ashley Kenyon: Impulse control problem?

She looks down at the next question.

Ashley Kenyon: How do you understand Tanja Devereaux when she talks?

Ashley just shakes her head.

Ashley Kenyon: How do you not?

Laughing to herself, Ashley grins.

Ashley Kenyon: Seriously, we’re both from New Orleans and she sounds like home to me. If you think her accent is hardcore, I should introduce y’all to some people because that shit would be funny!

She grins to herself as she reads the next question.

Ashley Kenyon: How are Bethany and Jeszika doing?

Ashley’s smile grows.

Ashley Kenyon: I think Bethy’s been on cloud nine since she got the word. We’ve always called her Mama Bethy since she was like sixteen so to finally be about to be one for real? Come on!

She sighs heavily.

Ashley Kenyon: Jezzy adding to her family is a little different. I think she’s a little more worried about it because of her family history.

She looks down at the next question.

Ashley Kenyon: Do you miss teaming with Bethany?

Ashley nods quickly.

Ashley Kenyon: I can honestly say, yeah, I kinda do. It’s been forever since we were a regular team back in UWA. I mean, my God, the Children weren’t even a known thing then. The Shieldmaidens hadn’t come onto the scene yet, they were just a local New Orleans thing at the time. The Wolves weren’t even a twinkle in anybody’s eye yet. NFW had different management and was a completely different animal. It never got to see us as a team really and I would have loved it if we had gotten to and, hey, maybe we still will. Spose we’ll find out.

Ashley sees the next question and just stares at it for a second.

Ashley Kenyon: How can you stand some of the people you hang out with?

Ashley shrugs like she might just start laughing.

Ashley Kenyon: Fuck is that supposed to mean? Ain’t nobody need to justify shit!

She shakes her head.

Ashley Kenyon: How can you sleep at night and live with your failures?

Ashley just shrugs as if this is nothing.

Ashley Kenyon: Because every failure just pushed me further. If I hadn’t ended up injured the first time I challenged Vince Jones in UWA, I never would have been as driven as I was to make him regret ever doing that to me in the first place or take his championship as I was. So… yeah.

She scans the next question and just exhales heavily.

Ashley Kenyon: What is up with Raseri?

Ashley stares at the screen for a second and then shrugs.

Ashley Kenyon: It’s called grief, rage and who the fuck knows what all else. That girl is hurting in so many ways, she doesn’t know which way is up anymore and is lashing out in every direction at once hoping she hits one of them. I recognize it, I know it well. That was me when my career started and my mother had been dead for several years at the time. If it had been fresher, I would have been worse and I probably would have done worse than I did and I did things like lash out and accuse Stacy Jones of being a horseshit friend when I barely knew the woman. I had no right to do that, but I did it because I was hurting, something got said to me to trigger the fuck out of me and rather than stop to think about it, I let fly with both barrels. Shanna is doing the same damn thing with about as much accuracy as I had at the time too.

She pauses.

Ashley Kenyon: Which makes sense since we were about the same age when we started lashing out. The only rea; difference is that I made more bad choices than she has so far because I was medicating too. If she ever starts that, God help us all.

Pausing gain, Ashley looks up into the camera.

Ashley Kenyon: Robi, R.J., I’m sorry I’m gonna have to smack your daughter around some. I hope you can forgive me for what’s coming but she’s not gonna leave me any choice. We’ve been family friends for over a decade so I'm not looking forward to this but like I know you’ve had to tell people, sometimes, violence is absolutely the fuckin’ answer ad that’s where we’re goin’!

She pushes back from the terminal and shakes her head.

Ashley Kenyon: March Mayhem needs to get here like… yesterday! Fuck!