NFW Trauma #35! 04/13/2021!

The lights inside the Collision Center suddenly dim as the screen lights up with a serene view of the Serengeti, alone on a large rock, a black lion lays, majestic and calm. Suddenly we hear some music begin to play.

Minoru Tanahashi: Cut it, fucking cut it now. Cut the lights, the music, the video, the pyro, I don’t fucking need it.

Minoru Tanahashi comes storming through the curtain, his hair hanging down, his beard wild and unkempt, even his fashion is a bit off, just some black jeans, boots, and his Black Lion Bomb t-shirt. No flash, no flare, just a man storming down to the ring. He hits the steps, gets in the ring, and turns towards the ramp.

Minoru Tanahashi: Yea yea, I know that normally the champ opens the show after a big pay per view, but I don’t care. I could sit here and say that I should be the champion. I could talk about the fact that that bastard was down and out before his manager pulled him from the ring and placed him on his feet.

Minoru kicks the bottom rope then punches one of the turnbuckles.

Minoru Tanahashi: That wasn’t the worst thing that happened though. Getting robbed by his manager was annoying, but not unexpected. What happened later though… I was on my way to my feet. I was on my way to becoming the Undisputed Champion, and then the unthinkable. I wasn’t attacked by either of Crowley’s managers or his wife or some minion. I was attacked by someone I thought was my friend. I was smashed in the face by a title belt that we had won together.

He stops, hangs his head, and moves to the corner. He slumps down, doesn’t look up, doesn’t really move at all, he just sits there.

Minoru Tanahashi: I could demand that she come out here and explain it to me, but that’s pointless. I already know why, and it’s even more disappointing than her betrayal. If she was angry at me because I pinned her in the number one contenders match or for suggesting she go after the United States title and it was a rage attack, I could understand. If she was jealous that I was picking up wins and in the main event while she had hit a rough patch, I could understand. Hell if it was some convoluted crap about her wanting to be the one to beat that goth bastard, I could understand that. It wasn’t any of that though. She sold her damn soul. She gave up everything all in order to be some lapdog, some lackey for creepy Crowley.

He sighs, stands up, and pushes his hair back a bit.

Minoru Tanahashi: I never used you Risa. It was never about stroking my own ego. I was proud of what WE accomplished. I told you that my suggestion about the United States title was because I wanted both of us to be champions, and I meant it. If you would have won that triple threat, yea I would have been upset for myself, but I would have moved on, cheered you on, supported you, and if you would have won that title, I would have been the first damn person out there to congratulate you. This crap that creepy Crowley and his jackass manager have put in your head, it’s all bullshit. You don’t matter one damn bit to him and the second you aren’t useful, they will throw you to the damn wolves. WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU THINKING!?

He kicks the rope in frustration again, then turns and looks straight up the ramp.

Minoru Tanahashi: It doesn’t matter anymore anyway. You wanna be done with Super Tiger, you wanna be done with me, that’s fine. I could forgive you for the attack. I could forgive you for turning your back on me. Hell, I could forgive you for joining up with that gothic douchebag. If you came out here right now, as mad as I am, as much as I would like to put my fist through your skull if you came out here right now and said you were sorry… I could forgive all those things, Risa. But, you broke my little sister’s heart, and I will never forgive you for that. You took her hope, her joy, you took her hero, balled it all up, and threw it in the god damn trash. For that, I’m going to make you fucking bleed. I am going to make you suffer. I am going to pay you back for all the hearts you broke and all the dreams you crushed at March Mayhem, and it starts tonight as I watch your match very closely.

He tosses the mic down, steps out of the ring, goes over to the barricade, hops over it, and takes a seat right in the front row. There’s a personal pizza and popcorn in the seat to the right of him and a cooler full of his favorite Strong Zero Double Peach to the left. He cracks one open and starts munching some popcorn as the show is officially on the road.

Andrew Payne: Well...a bit unexpected before we officially get things started tonight….

Miranda Augustino: I’ll say! Someone’s a grouchy fuck from March Mayhem III!

Andrew Payne: Don’t you start, Mir. Ladies and gents, without further adieu, this...is NFW Trauma….

Miranda Augustino: We doing the thing?

Andrew Payne: Yeah, we’re doing the thing. Roll it!

The scene opens up into Brea's ratty old basement as the bass intro of "Peace Sells" by Megadeth played in the background as we see Brea seated on the couch as she would address the viewing public, as her IJWF Heritage Championship was seated next to her on the sofa.

Brea Lombardi: So, as I'm sure you all know, Godzilla v. Kong dropped a couple weeks ago, and may I say, it was most excellent. It's hard to beat some big dumb monster fights, and it's a lot of the same in our business...

She said with a bit of a calmer voice than she usually addresses the crowd, speaking about her opponent for Trauma this week.

Brea Lombardi: Tonight, I'm facing the six foot tall onyx carved shit brick house known as Isis. As far as women go, she's like a kaiju amongst monsters. To the average woman, they would be scared shitless...

She said calmly, before getting more intense in her voice as she addressed her.

Brea Lombardi: But, I'm no average woman! I'm a rocker, a roller an out of controller! She can call herself the evolution of women, but I'm not giving up even if she is bigger than me! Isis says she's going to dismantle me in that ring, but, I'm going to remind her that metal doesn't break for anybody!

Brea said confidently, as the camera would fade out on her interruption, as we return to our regularly scheduled program.
It is the bowels of the arena; the only people needed around these parts are maintenance, technicians and the spare few who either set traps for adversaries or indulge in darker arts. As a result, the lighting is dim and the only sound is the rattling from the boiler room in the distance and the buzzing of old fluorescent lights on the ceiling, some clicking on and off. The relative, horror-movie peace is disturbed by the harsh squeak of cheap shoes on a smooth floor. Someone skids around the corner further down the hall, looking around quickly before running forward. He has several people on his tail, all wearing familiar red and black attire. The person in question wears the somewhat-battered coveralls of a lower-level worker.

He keeps ahead of the pack, even extending the distance between them. As he rounds another corner, however, two more of the Huesos Rojos step into view, and it is here that the man realizes that he’s cornered. He holds his hands up in a gesture of peace as no less than a half-dozen gang members move in and surround him.

Man: Whoa, hey… look, if this is about somethin’ wrong in your locker room, I’ll handle it! Ain’t no need to get violent!

A couple of the gang members snicker and shake their heads. One, however, steps forward.

Huesos Rojos: <Don’t fuckin’ play stupid, man. You know who we are and what we want. Fuck you run for?>

When Spanish is spoken to him, the man gets a little more serious and responds in kind.

Man: <I got nothin’ to do with you or who you represent anymore. This is my life now.>

Huesos Rojos: <Bullshit. Why you runnin’ if you got nothin’ to hide?>

Again concern washes over the man’s face. He’s older… probably in his mid-to-late forties. His life has perhaps been a hard one; the lines there indicate as much.

Man: <Like you said: I know who you are. But what you’re trying to represent was done like a decade ago. Even if it were coming back, I got nothing to offer.>

Mano Derecha: <That’s where you’re wrong, Carlos.>

Carlos: <...wait… Leticia? Is that you?>

The Huesos Rojos look among themselves, then to Derecha. Precious few called her by her given name. Not many even knew it. That alone spoke to the veracity of what they knew of this Carlos. Yet to a man they were still very much on guard.

Mano Derecha: <It has been a long time. We need to talk.>

Carlos: <A phone call would have been a lot easier than chasing me down. How did you even find->

He stops mid-sentence, looking around at the men, then back to Derecha. Suddenly, concern is replaced by fear on the man’s face.

Carlos: <Wait, you aren’t here just for->

Mano Derecha: <No. But we did know you were here before we made our presence felt. You and a few others, in fact, though I do not expect that you would be aware of them. Some of you went to far greater lengths to stay undetected. But that is a conversation for another time. Again: we need to talk.>

It isn’t as if he really has a choice. The fear remains, though. Derecha gestures the gang members back.

Mano Derecha: <Not here.>

Carlos: <What about->

Mano Derecha: <Don’t worry about her. She is leaving this to us, as it should be. Come.>

Numbly, Carlos falls into step with the Huesos Rojos and Derecha, the group leaving the arena’s basement and, presumably, exiting the building in short order. With Silencia’s presence not required in a formal capacity for the evening, one has to wonder if she is present in the arena or not. As much as one might wonder what Isabella Santiago will think of one of her employees being escorted from the building in the middle of a show...

La Siervientas de Yum Kimil v. Fast Food

~DING DING DING~

Nacho tells French Fry that he’ll start the match and French Fry shakes his head as Nacho walks to the middle of the ring. He looks at Lady Death, then Santa Muerte, and nods as he points to them and says that he never likes to hit a pretty lady, especially two, so how about a dance-off instead? They look at him for a moment, then shock him with a double superkick. Nacho is rocked and then dropped by a double clothesline. French Fry comes charging in to help his partner, but he’s caught with the high/low and folded up like an accordion as Santa Muerte hits him with a basement dropkick that sends him flying into a vicious Lady Death clothesline that spins him around. The ref finally gets Santa Muerte into the corner, but Lady Death tags her in which allows her to spike Nacho with a tornado DDT. Death is tagged right back in as they hit a big double elbow drop. They don’t cover instead opting for another tag. Lady Death hauls the rotund luchador up and they connect with Scrificio a los dioses. Santa Muerta covers and French Fry is still completely out of it on the outside

TWO…

THREE!

~DING DING DING~

Thea Crawford: Your winners as a result of a pin fall… LA SIRVIENTAS DE YUM KIMIL

Miranda Augustino: Well, that was quick. La Servico or however you say their names, made extremely quick work of that idiot Nacho Grande and his long suffering partner, French Fry.

Andrew Payne: Of course they ended it early, they have to get back to their hostage and make sure he hasn’t been able to figure out where he’s being held captive.

Result: Via Pinfall

As the match ends, La Profita comes walking out from behind the curtain with a dolly and someone strapped to it, looking like Hannibal Lector. She parks him right next to the ring and gets in to join her pair of deadly women. The crowd boos heavily as it's apparent just who that is on the outside, the boyfriend of Faye Brown, Logan. He isn't even moving as the camera focuses on him for a moment and his eyes are shut. The camera shifts back to the ring where Profita has a microphone.

La Profita: Just look at the destruction my two ladies caused tonight! Look at what they're capable of. Tonight was just the first step for them and for us. The time for sacrifice is soon at hand.

The crowd boos as Lady Death rolls out of the ring and stands next to Logan, stroking his cheek and giving it a quick kiss with a laugh.

La Profita: Manifest Destiny, that is the time of the sacrifice where we take this poor soul you see before you and we give him a purpose in this world! He will be sacrificed to Yum Kimil and help grant Lady Death and Santa Muerta unbelievable power!

Before La Profita can continue though, the crowd goes wild as Faye Brown comes sprinting down the ramp and goes right after Lady Death and delivers a forearm shot that stuns her. Faye immediately goes to try and free Logan, but Santa Muerta comes from behind with a steel chair and takes Faye down. Her and Lady Death start to stomp and beat down on Faye before the crowd once again erupts and out charges Eavan Maloney. She comes sprinting down the ramp, but before she can reach Lady Death and Santa Muerta, the lights go out and when they come back on, La Profita, Santa Muerta, Lady Death, and Logan are all gone from the ringside area and Eavan immediately goes to check on Faye with an angry look on her face.

Andrew Payne: This whole situation is getting out of hand. What do they mean by sacrifice?

Miranda Augustino: I dunno Andy, but I don't like the sound of it one bit.

Lil Juicy v. Lana Corvin

It was an in-ring debut for both of these competitors and the crowd was responding to both. Lana Corvin had the recognition through her family’s lineage in the business while Lil Juicy just had that air and charisma about him that made it hard to NOT like the guy. Even from the beginning bell, Juicy was motioning to the crowd to get loud and show some love. Lana stood back in her corner, rolling her eyes and twirled her finger in the air, waiting for them to get it out of their system. When the fans didn’t appreciate it and started booing her, she just made a jerking motion with her hand like she didn’t give a shit about their disapproval. As the two circled up, Lana looked focused and all in it. Juicy looked like he was having fun with this, stepping from side to side and wiggling his fingers, daring Lana to come right in and get him. When Lana finally lunged at him, Juicy straightened his posture and palmed her forehead with his head, basically playing the reach game with her to keep her from getting at him. Lana slapped his hand away and threw her hands up, furious and annoyed. Juicy shrugged as if to ask what she expected him to do. They circled up again and once more, Juicy palmed Lana’s forehead. She slapped his arm away and tried to move in more but he palmed her with his other hand. He shook his head and wagged his other hand’s index finger at her. Finally, Lana grabbed his hand on her head by the wrist. Before Juicy had time to respond, Lana grabbed one of his fingers and started bending it back.This got Juicy to start buckling in the knees with an audible “owowowowowowow!!” Lana was able to get in close and started laying kicks to the midsection and those long legs of her opponent.

As the match went on, Lana slipped behind Juicy and caught him in a rear waistlock but Juicy widened his stance and braced his feet. He broke the grip around his waist with his thumbs and spun around and went for a Fastball Punch but Lana juked around behind him again and delivered a chop block to cut him down to size. Juicy dropped to a knee, Lana hit the ropes and came in with a running lariat. She popped up to her feet and hit a standing moonsault for a two count. The crowd booed her as she stood up and started slapping Juicy in the head, taunting him when he began sitting up. To add insult to injury, Lana stuck her finger in her mouth, wiggling it around vigorously to really get some spit on it. Juicy was leaning on the ropes when she grabbed him by the hair and shoved the spit slick finger right into his ear, causing him to writhe in disgust and get a bigger boo out of the crowd. The ref made it to 4 before Lana backed off and threw the middle fingers to the crowd. She ran in and hit a Tiger Feint Kick then to knock Juicy away from the ropes, landing herself out on the apron. Juicy staggered back onto his feet, holding his jaw but as Lana sprang up onto the top rope and came off it, Juicy reached up and caught her right into a big powerbomb, snapping her violently to the mat. He dropped himself down, stacking her legs up over her shoulders for a tight cover but Lana kicked out after two. The wind was out of her now, though, and Juicy was starting to show some fight again. Lana made it up quickly but Juicy ran in with a Big Boot that dropped her again. Lana popped back up and Juicy hit another Big Boot. Lana dropped and sprung back up but this time, Juicy was hitting the ropes and came in for a lariat that looked a little sloppy but it hit Lana like a fucking freight train and sent her inside out, finally keeping her down. Juicy slapped the top rope, fired up and yelled to the crowd, getting a pop of approval. Lana started getting up but Juicy grabbed her around the head and put her right back down with “Esskeetit!!” Juicy snapped down and Lana’s head hit the mat, causing her to pop up onto her knees with a cloudy gaze that said she took all of that before slumping over. Juicy went for another cover but Lana got the shoulder up just as the ref’s hand was coming down for the last slap and kept the match alive.

He picked Lana back up and lifted her across his shoulders into a Fireman’s Carry but she managed to get her fingers in his eyes and scratched away. Juicy ended up loosening his grip as the ref scolded Lana but she just wriggled her way free and landed down behind Juicy, running right for the ropes. As Juicy turned around to catch her, Lana twisted and spun around him for a Satellite DDT, effectively delivering Through The Veil. Now it was Juicy popping up on his knees with a clouded gaze. As he started falling back to the mat, however, Lana was back up and caught him, pulling the man to his feet and setting him up for a suplex. Juicy wasn’t exactly heavy for her but his height made him a little difficult for Lana to get straight up. She improvised, however, and got him up just enough to turn and spring his legs off of the ropes to get him all the way vertical, before dropping him down with his neck across her knee. Spear of Diana!! She covered him again and that did it as the ref smacked the mat for three.

Thea Crawford: Here is your winner...LANA...CORVIN!!

Andrew Payne: Young and vicious is Lana Corvin, everybody.

Miranda Augustino: And victorious!

Andrew Payne: You suddenly condone unorthodox tactics, Mir?

Miranda Augustino: Of course not, but that shit aside, you gotta admit she’s preeeetty impressive! Juicy boy could stand to learn a few things, though. Holy shit, man.

Andrew Payne: Hey, kid’s got heart. Give him some time.

Result: Pinfall

The scene opens backstage in one of the locker rooms. Isis can be seen in the middle of doing a standing hamstring stretch to loosen herself up for her upcoming match against Brea Lombardi. The sound of the locker room door can be heard opening. Strutting into the frame is her manager Donovan Cunningham. He stands there, waiting for Isis to wrap up. About five seconds later she is fully erect. She rests her hands on her hips as she looks at Donovan.

Donovan Cunningham: I got one question for you, Isis.

He clears his throat.

Donovan Cunningham: ... are you ready?

She tilts her head to the side.

Isis: Why wouldn’t I be?

Donovan clears his throat one more time.

Donovan Cunningham: I SAID... are... you ready?

This time he pounds his chest. Isis raises her eyebrow.

Isis: I don’t need a pep talk, Donnie.

Donovan takes a deep breath.

Donovan Cunningham: Isis... are--

Isis is quick to cut him off.

Isis: I’M READY! Happy now!

Isis rolls her eyes. Donovan tucks his hands into his pants pockets.

Donovan Cunningham: I believe in you; Isis. I would be a fool not too. Visually you are a mega star already. You got a presence that is unquestionable. Tonight is your world premiere against a very game and experienced Brea Lombardi. Just making sure you putting a beating on that fine ass is the only thing you are focused on. No distractions, remember.

Isis: You were the one flirting with Brea on Twitter a week ago. Where is your attention going to be?

Isis chuckles. Donovan half smirks.

Donovan Cunningham: Brea can take my soul anytime she wants BUT... you’re my number one priority. Scouts honor!

Donovan rests his hand over his heart. Isis closes the gap between her and Donovan. She stares him straight in the eye.

Isis: After the bell rings, Brea is all yours--

Isis cracks her knuckles.

Isis: -- what’s left of her anyway.

Isis pats Donovan on the shoulder. She walks past him to power walk out the locker room. Donovan nods. Follows Isis lead as the scene fades.
We open in the locker room with Solomon Graham and his wife, Selena Firehouse. Sol’s best friend, Eddie Evans, is with them but out of the room at the moment. Solomon is sitting down, fully dressed in his gear and prepared to wrestle if he’s called to do so. Sol and Selena are sitting next to each other on the bench, when Selena pipes up.

SELENA FIREHOUSE: So, do you think they’ll have something for you to do?

SOLOMON GRAHAM: Of course! I imagine they’ll have a segment ready kinda like what we’re doing right now, but on camera.

SELENA FIREHOUSE: Wait, what?

SOLOMON GRAHAM: Yeah, yeah. You read the script, didn’t you?

SELENA FIREHOUSE: Uhh… what?!?

Solomon does an awkward pause.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: Uh, Y’know what? Nevermind. Forget I said anything.

Solomon then quickly checks a piece of paper that has suddenly appeared in his hand, scratching the top of his head. He then nods and puts it down beside him.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: Yep, just… totally forget it.

Selena looks very confused. She just shakes her head and puts it aside. At this point, Eddie Evans comes into the scene. Initially, he’s chipper, but he immediately feels the vibe and his mojo is shot.

EDDIE EVANS: Heyyy… what’s goin’ on here?

SOLOMON GRAHAM: Hmm?

EDDIE EVANS: Y’know… how’s it going?

SOLOMON GRAHAM: You know how it do. Cut of the jib and all that jazz?

Eddie and Selena both look at Solomon with very confused looks on their faces.

EDDIE EVANS: Huh?!

SELENA FIREHOUSE: What?

A devilish smile creeps across Sol’s face.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: The BOUGIEST of BEAT’EM UPS!!! HAHA, HALLOWEEEN!!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

Eddie begins to get frustrated with Sol’s antics as he does nothing but laugh maniacally and obnoxiously for the next 10 seconds. Eddie sits down next to him.

EDDIE EVANS: Solomon, pull yourself together!!! Pull yourself togeth---

He then grabs him by the shoulders and paintbrushes the SHIT out of him!! It seems to daze him a little bit, but eventually he comes back to, realizing what happened.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: Uhm… I’m sorry. Things have been… rough, as of late.

EDDIE EVANS: Well, talk to me. You know you’re able to, you’ve been able to lean on my shoulder any time you’ve needed to for the last 18 years of your life.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: M’kay. I’ll try to without completely breaking down.

He takes a deep breath, before proceeding.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: So… as you know, FWA has been picking up more steam, as of late. I’ve been making dates for federations all across North American. And yet…

Eddie places a single hand on Solomon’s shoulder.

EDDIE EVANS: And yet?

SOLOMON GRAHAM: And yet… something is missing. Something is out of balance. If I could figure out what...

Eddie makes a suggestion to Solomon.

SELENA FIREHOUSE: Do you think it could be that Prince Philip is dead?

SOLOMON GRAHAM: No… but now that you mention it… that really bummed me out.

SELENA FIREHOUSE: As it did the rest of us, hon’. But we keep living and we keep holding on, the way he no longer can.

Solomon looks at his wife and a warm smile appears on his face.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: That’s… very inspiring of you, babe.

Selena chuckles, as does Eddie.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: Touching, too. Don’t know how much it’ll help me, though, I still can’t shake this feeling that something’s wrong.

EDDIE EVANS: I think I know what’s going on, here.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: Do you?

EDDIE EVANS: Yes… you, Solomon, have a very good intuition. You have an innate ability to see into the future and what outcomes will be depending on your decisions, and you’re able to pick bad people out of a crowd when you see them. I’ve seen you do it, that’s a fuckin’ gift.

Solomon chuckles.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: You’re not wrong. If only I knew what was up...

EDDIE EVANS: If I were a betting man, I’d say it pertains to the FWA. It could also be that it’s not your intuition at all and that you feel… incomplete. And as it pertains to that, I’d say you’re incomplete over not having that Perseverance title around your waist. You fought hard and suddenly, it falls outta the sky and someone else just catches it, not having to do any of themselves.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: Not even gonna lie… that was bullshit and I want another chance to fight for the title… but I have to earn it.

SELENA FIREHOUSE: What’s so wrong with that, hon’? You earned it before. What’s stopping you from earning it again in the future?

Solomon shakes his head, an exhausted look on his face.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: No doubt in my mind that I’m not gonna be the one to get that chance. Unless they’re preparing to give me a contendership shot, I think I’ll have to spend my time racking up wins if I’m gonna get another chance.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: How is that a bad thing? You’re prepared for that, right? Even then, you have the support of the FWA fans and you have us, cheering you on from this locker room. You have the utmost support. That’s all you need to go out there and do what you do best. And what might that be?

He says, urging Sol to finish the sentence. Solomon smiles.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: Kick ass and chew bubblegum!

SELENA FIREHOUSE: Don’t tell me… you’re outta gum?

SOLOMON GRAHAM: Unfortunately, yes. I am.

SELENA FIREHOUSE: Awww, that’s too bad.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: I know… but I’m still gonna kick ass! Even if it’s the LAST THING I DO!!!!

SELENA FIREHOUSE: Fuck yeah, you will! And if you take out two of the letters and replace them with different ones, it becomes a pitch perfect description of what you do to me on a regular basis...

SOLOMON GRAHAM: EXA--- wait a minute, what the fuck did you just say to me? Let’s keep the personal life personal, shall we?

SELENA FIREHOUSE: I’m just sayin’. It’s getting kinda old, kinda wanna… switch it up a little.

Solomon blushes. We’re not sure if it’s out of rage or embarrassment.

Uhhh… can’t it be both?

Y’know what? Sure. Why not?

SOLOMON GRAHAM: In due time sweet pea, but remember that we’re on camera right now...

EDDIE EVANS: Wait, really? Well then, where the fuck is the camera?

SOLOMON GRAHAM: I dunno, it’s around here somewhere. They didn’t tell me exactly where, though.

SELENA FIREHOUSE: Oh, well… shit.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: Yeah, no shit “shit”. What you said was a load of SHIT!

EDDIE EVANS: Guys, guys... let’s not get ourselves into a shitfest here. We’d go on all night doing that and there’s still plenty of NFW Trauma to go. We don’t wanna hold up the show now, do we?

Both of them… give nods that give across an err of “Point taken”.

SOLOMON GRAHAM: I suppose you’re right. In that case, uhh… let’s just do like we were doing before and be ready in case we’re needed.

EDDIE EVANS: Okay, sounds good!

From there, they sit down and continue to wait until they’re needed. But will they be needed?

God only knows, these guys are more all over the place backstage than they are in the ring.

I know, it’s terrible… I hope it’ll last…!

Isis v. Brea Lombardi

Isis tries to move in and clobber the smaller Lombardi but the Leather Rebel ducks and runs to the ropes. Lombardi rebounds off and starts her stick and move routine. In constant motion, Lombardi hits Isis and then moves away no less than fives times before Isis is finally knocks down.

Isis kicks out angrily!

Lombardi keeps the stick and move strategy going culminating in an attempt at a missile dropkick. Isi falls back into the ropes and Lombard catches an inside cradle.

Two!

Isis kicks out!

Lombardi moves off and looks to get another stick and move in only for Isis to catch her and throw her into the corner. Lombardi bounces off the turnbuckles and Isis drills her with a vicious lariat. Lombardi hits hard on the mat. Isis drops a big elbow and covers.

Two!

Lombardi kicks out!

Isis goes to mount the smaller woman but Lombardi squirts between the giant amazon’s legs and tries to run away. Isis grabs her by the hair and pulls her back into a big leg hook Saito suplex. Lombardi bounces like she’s been in a car crash. Isis covers.

Two!

Lombardi gets a shoulder up!

Isis drags Lombardi up and looks for Welcome To Dystopia. Lombardi slides through dn rolls Isis up.

Two!

Three!

~Ding Ding Ding~

Thea Crawford: Here is your winner! Brea Lombardi!

Andrew Payne: Great victory by Brea, tonight!

Miranda Augustino: Simón, carnal! But hey, Isis put on a good showing!

Andrew Payne: She sure di--oh come on!!!

All of a sudden Isis drills Lombardi with a backfist and then follows with a series of hammerfists. The referee tries to stop her but Isis drills the referee with a stiff right. Isis pulls Lombardi up and hits Welcome To Dystopia, putting the badmouth on her as the giant woman backs off. The crowd boos vociferously but Isis simply raises her hands up, simultaneously satisfied with the destruction at her feet and the reaction from the onlooking fans.

Andrew Payne: That was uncalled for!

Miranda Augustino: Talk about a sore loser!

Result: Pinfall

The arena is bathed in a green glow of the lights as the beginning of Bring Me The Horizon’s “Kingslayer” featuring BABYMETAL begins to play across the arena. On the screen, outer space is shown and slowly peeking from the bottom of the screen is planet Earth looming up and the words “Universal Superstar” appears on the screen as the vocals begin.

Hi, are you looking for the other side?

Feel like nothing ever seems quite right?

Are you circling the drainpipe, getting off on pain like

You're corrupted?

I need to know where your loyalties lie

Tell me, are you gonna bark or bite?

Do you really want to twist the knife

In the belly of the monster?

♫♫♫

♫♫♫

Get the fuck up, wake the fuck up

Wipe the system, and back the fuck up

You're a puppet when they cut your strings off

Don't come crawling back

♫♫♫

Then the name “Anaquin Adams” appears on the screen as she makes her way out onto the ramp and lets out a howl. She is wearing a black top, which black shorts, with black boots. She wears a black leather jacket. Around her waist, is the NFW United States Championship. Her long green hair stands out as she races down the ramp and slides into the ring before hopping up onto her feet.

Kingslayer

Destroying castles in the sky

Kingslayer

Forevermore the apple of my eye

I'd sacrifice my life to find you

Angel of the flame

Kingslayer

Come and collect us from the night

♫♫♫

She walks over and reaches for the microphone from the ring announcer as her music fades.

Anaquin Adams: March Mayhem has come and gone and the Universal Superstar is still the NFW Unites States Champion. Griffin Hawkins is a true world-class warrior and he took me to my limit. He beat me bloody and he exhausted me. But in the end, my hand was raised and Griffin Hawkins has earned my respect. I would fight him any time, anywhere.

Anaquin removes the title from around her waist and lays it on the canvas of the ring.

Anaquin Adams: The next question is who will be next to step up to challenge me for the United States Championship. Where is Eavan Maloney? She claims she wants championships.If you want to be THE champion in Trauma, if you want to be THE champion in NFW you want to be the United States Champion. I’m waiting.

Anaquin walks around in a circle in the ring.

Anaquin Adams: What about Stacy Jones? She comes into NFW with all the credentials in the world and yet, she has not once mentioned Anaquin Adams and the United States Championship. What about the self-professed “Supernova?”

The crowd boos at the mentions of Risa.

Anaquin Adams: Do not boo her. She has made the choice she felt that was best for her. It is not for you to agree or disagree. Let her show you who she has become and then decide whether or not she deserves your accolades or your jeers. But Risa, you dare to disrespect the United States Championship? I saw your remark to Minoru Tanahashi about the United States title, as if it was beneath you. If it’s so beneath you, then I dare you to step up to me and challenge me for this championship.

She walks up and looks directly into the ringside camera.

Anaquin Adams: And to the other so-called champions, whether it’s on Trauma or on Collision. I am telling you right now, there is no other championship higher in prestige than the United States Championship. Crowley. Kate. Nevaeh. Payne. If you disagree, then come for me. Beat me and I’ll conceded. Until then, I hereby dictate this…

She holds up the United States Championship.

Anaquin Adams: … is the championship of NFW. I am undefeated. I am the United States Champion. I am THE Champion in NFW. Disagree? Come prove me wrong.

As Anaquin throws down the microphone, her music hits as she parades around the ring holding up the US Championship before she finally exits the ring and slaps hands with the fans as she heads to the back.
Andrew Payne: Well folks, what a show we’ve had so far!

Miranda Augustino: And we’re still far from finished, Andy!

Suddenly “Money” by Pink Floyd begins to play through the PA system and as the song kicks in, “Priceless” Steele Matthews walks out onto the stage followed by his personal bodyguard Mr. Hughes. The typical Cheshire cat grin that’s usually plastered across Matthews’ face is missing and is replaced by a scowl as he makes his way down the ramp followed by Hughes.

Andrew Payne: Well here comes Steele Matthews and he doesn’t look too happy.

Miranda Augustino: He was robbed of an opportunity at the Perseverance Championship, which he should have just been given… and he’s been left off tonight’s card. How would you feel?

Reaching the ring, the two make their way up the steel steps and climb through the ropes and Matthews snatches the microphone from Thea Crawford’s hand and yells at her to get out of his ring which she does so as “Money” fades out allowing the fans' boos to be heard.

Steele Matthews: SHUT UP! ALL OF YOU JUST SHUT UP!

This just causes the fans' booing to increase in volume as Matthews paces back and forth a little, rubbing his face to try and calm down.

Steele Matthews: Not only! Not only have I been left off the card tonight! But two weeks ago at March Mayhem… I was forced to compete in a ridiculous Battle Royal against a bunch of losers to get a shot at the brand new Perseverance Championship! I should have been given that championship! And now it’s being paraded around by some air-headed thot who thinks she owns the place just because her other half is the Undisputed Champion!

He glares into the camera as Hughes towers behind him, stoic as ever.

Steele Matthews: But even that wasn’t enough for you was it? No! You see… Anaquin Adams didn’t retain her United States Championship against Griffin Hawkins on her own, no!

The Priceless One looks over to the stage and points up to the titantron.

Steele Matthews: Roll the damn footage!

Footage begins to play of the United States Championship Steel Cage match between Anaquin Adams and Griffin Hawkins from March Madness from a different camera angle than what we’re used to seeing. It shows the part where Hawkins goes to stand up on top of the cage and then it freeze frames as Matthews points to himself in the crowd.

Steele Matthews: See! There I am! It was because of my genius distraction that cost Griffin Hawkins the United States Championship!

Looking back into the hard camera, he outstretches his free arm.

Steele Matthews: And yet… where’s my thanks from Adams?! Where’s the recognition from the commentators?! I am “Priceless” Steele Matthews and the spotlight should be on me! Because I am better than every single person on this roster! Hell… I’m better than every single person in New Frontier!

Just then “Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi kicks in and out comes Griffin Hawkins. The crowd begins to go crazy as he appears on the ramp with a microphone in hand.

Griffin Hawkins: Okay okay… I’m gonna have to stop you right there Steely, because frankly you’re boring these people half to death! I mean week… after week… after week, you come out and run your gob about yourself, don’t you realize nobody here gives a damn about what you have to say?!

The crowd is cheering him as Matthews is seen mouthing off “Come say that to my face!” as he glares up at Hawkins.

Miranda Augustino: He can’t say that about him!

Andrew Payne: He just did.

Griffin Hawkins: But you are right about one thing, you did have a hand in costing me the United States Title… but the question is, why? Because you’re throwing a big old temper tantrum like a baby just because you lost your chance to get some gold, so you want to make sure I don’t get any either? Trust me Steele, in due time, I’ll be United States Champion… but before that happens, I’m gonna come down there… and whoop that ass!

Matthews paces a little, seething before finally starting to calm down and for the first time tonight, that Cheshire cat grin appears on his face.

Steele Matthews: You’re going to come down here and whoop my ass?

He looks back at Hughes chuckling, however the big man is unmoved as The Priceless One turns his focus back onto Hawkins.

Steele Matthews: Then come on down!

A sly smile comes across Hawkins’ face.

Griffin Hawkins: You know… you should be very careful what you ask for.

He puts down the microphone and takes off his leather jacket and walks down to the ring. Matthews removes his suit jacket and begins to roll up his sleeves, shouting “Come on down pretty boy!” as he motions for him to fight, making sure to stand by the side of Hughes.

Andrew Payne: I don’t know if this is a good idea, Griff!

Miranda Augustino: Of course it isn’t! Steele will destroy him!

Andrew Payne: Aren’t you forgetting about the brute that Steele hangs out with?

Miranda Augustino: He’ll just be doing his job.

Hawkins then charges down the remainder of the ramp and slides under the bottom rope and quickly gets to his feet and spears Matthews to the ground as the two begin to pummel each other.

Andrew Payne: And here we go!

Miranda Augustino: Griff is going to pay for that unprovoked assault on Steele!

After managing to get only a few shots in on Matthews, Hawkins is pulled off of him by Hughes, but the Jukebox Hero elbows the behemoth in the side of the head and then begins to unload on the big man instead.

Andrew Payne: Griff fighting off both Steele and Hughes here!

Miranda Augustino: Just wait…

The shots to Hughes seem to barely affect him and eventually he floors Hawkins with a vicious clothesline as Matthews is now back on his feet and demands that Hughes picks him up and the bodyguard obliges.

Andrew Payne: This is what happened to Griff the last time these three were in the same ring together!

Miranda Augustino: Told you.

Matthews grabs Hawkins’ face and is almost nose to nose with the rockstar.

Steele Matthews: YOU BROUGHT THIS ON YOURSELF, HAWKINS! NOBODY EMBARRASSES STEELE MATTHEWS!!!

Matthews then grabs Hawkins’ wrist in preparation for The Money Shot when all of a sudden, “Live For This” by Hatebreed blasts out of the PA system bringing the fans to their feet and a look of shock to Matthews’ face as Matt Robinson slowly walks out through the curtain and onto the stage.

Andrew Payne: That’s… that’s Matt Robinson! A former five-time NWA World Champion, a three-time Hall of Famer… and he also used to go by The Punisher much like I did when I was active!

Miranda Augustino: We saw him backstage talking to Griff at March Madness but… does he work for NFW now?!

From the sleeve of Robinson’s leather jacket, a sledgehammer slides out from it into the former wrestler’s grip and he glares at Matthews and Hughes before he then charges down the ramp. As soon as he enters the ring, Matthews and Hughes exit the ring and head up the ramp, looking back in the ring as Robinson helps Hawkins up to his feet before he picks up the microphone that Matthews’ was using.

Matt Robinson: Remember me, Steele? Hughes? Well I have an announcement to make… or should I say… Griff here does.

Robinson then hands the microphone to Hawkins.

Griffin Hawkins: I want you in a one on one match! And bring that big roid head with you… because The Punisher is gonna be in my corner to make sure he stays on his best behavior. You jumped on the wrong guy Matthews… and now you are gonna be the one who gets laid out!

Matthews doesn’t look so sure until Hughes whispers something into his ear, then he nods as if to accept the challenge.

Steele Matthews: I accept! And it won’t matter who you have in your corner, Hawkins! I will end you!

Matthews then tosses the microphone down and storms off with Hughes following while Robinson and Hawkins chat amongst themselves as we cut elsewhere.
“Head like a Hole” By Nine Inch Nails hits the speakers. Faust and Tia appear on the stage first, soon followed by Cali-Kate and Anton Crowley, hand in hand, both with their respective titles over their shoulders. They take a look around the audience, both with arrogant smiles on their faces. The four make their way to the ring under the heavy jeers of the audience. Tia and Kate exchange a few words that Tia laughs at before they get to ringside. Faust climbs up and holds the ropes for both Tia and Kate. Before Kate enters she too holds the ropes as Anton steps in, confident and sure of himself. Faust goes to call for a couple microphones as the music fades out. Kate takes the mic first and smirks at the audience as they continue to boo the group in the ring.

Cali-Kate: The longer you boo, the longer we stay here. That can only mean you adore us so that we can stick around longer.

Faust and Tia bith smirk a bit at that statement. The audience boos intensify a moment and then die down a bit.

Cali-Kate: Now it's time to heed the words of your House. First off, your Lady, yours truly, addresses you lowly bastards. And…

Kate lifts the Perseverance title slightly.

Cali-Kate: I do believe I fucking told you so. I said that Isabella had no choice but to put me in that tournament. I told you that no one in that match had the same dedication as me to be able to win. Otherwise, whether it be exhaustion or sweaty hands or abducted loved ones or whatever damn excuse that the rest want to use, this… is mine!

Kate laughs and finally even Anton smiles while Faust applauds. The audience is getting rowdier over her words.

Cali-Kate: There was never any question about it. Sure, everyone in there had their damn reasons and their strengths, but out of all of them, I am the only one who has ever shown that, booked or not, I will be here, every show and ready to fight from day one of being here. That is what Perseverance is, knowing that you can get thrown to the fucking bottom… but you can still pick yourself back up and keep coming back no matter what! That's the real difference! I have always had that spirit.

Anton taps Kate's shoulder and whispers something in her ear. Kate nods and the four make a small discussion before Kate turns back.

Cali-Kate: Anton wanted to remind me that despite everything I do have one thing to address. The number one contender, Kasey Kash. Now here's a question: hiw many fucking Kash's am I gonna have to put down in my career? Funny the last one was a poor impression of me, this one now is a poor impression of Anton. I get it, they aren't actually related, but it seems like I'm the one that gets bottom of the pile when it comes to anyone who is named a number one contender to my titles. It's like I have to stay at the bottom even though I am the draw of Trauma. I know it, my associates, my Dark Heart, all know it, Santiago knows it, fucking Steven Brody knows it and most of all, all of you fucking know it as well.

Kate smiles one more time.

Cali-Kate: So whatever challenge awaits me next, is just gonna be another fucking day at the office. But I want to be very fucking clear about something: after I put Kasey Kash down I am opening up this title to anyone who wants to step into the NFW ring with me. Any show, any time. Or if they feel like being so embarrassed I'll take this to their company and humiliate them in front of their fans. It makes no fucking difference. This title is mine, only mine! I'm the one who will always keep rising up no matter how far down I am being kept. So keep the opponents coming, bottom if the barrel or top of the mountain I'll fucking run through you all. This, this is fucking Game Start, bitches!

Faut politely asks for the mic from Kate. Once he has it he steps forward. A smug and pretentious grin on his face.

Faust: As Lady Kate has so eloquently said, I told you so. I told you all Lady Kate and Lord Crowley would walk out of March Mayhem with their respective Titles. At the end of the night, House Crowley stood tall and proud. They stood as your Queen and King.

The crowd’s negative reaction is the loudest yet. Faust grins through it all.

Faust: You all should show a little more gratitude to your King and Queen. You all saw what Lord Crowley does to those who are not thankful to him. To those unloyal to him. He offered Minoru a chance. Our King offered him mercy. Minoru’s response? To spit in the face of your King. This self proclaimed black lion thought himself akin to the Tsavo Man-Eaters. He thought he could take down the King. He thought he had everything accounted for. But he did not. He thought he would easily dispatch Lord Crowley. But he was mistaken. He did not think to consider the repercussions of his own actions. He couldn’t see past the shiny object dangled before his face. He was so dis...

Anton lightly places his hand on Faust’s shoulder. The excited man turns to look at him.

Faust: My, Lord?

Anton holds his other hand out for the mic. Faust hands it over with a bow of his head. He steps back to stand next to Kate. Anton looks out, smirking, over the crowd.

Anton Crowley: At March Mayhem I showed you what I can do for those who do as I ask. Super Tiger was in a downward spiral. Nightmares, so-called friends showing how little they care. She needed help. She needed salvation. So I did what any benevolent King would do. I reached out and offered her a hand. All I asked for was her trust. To put that trust in me, that I could lift her up. She gave her loyalty willingly. Eagerly. So I helped shape her. Mold her. Make her be the best version of herself she could be. She is my weapon. She is my sword against any and all who would oppose me.

That wicked grin overtakes Anton’s features.

Anton Crowley: Those who wish to try and take down the King shall feel her wrath. Those who seek to oppose and usurp me shall be burned away by the fire that is MY SuperNova!

Anton motions to the entrance ramp with his free hand. As he does the lights in the arena go dark as "Supernova" by Primal Fear begins to play. A single red spotlight illuminates a figure on the stage as the image of a burning Tiger Mask appears on the ‘Tron and fog begins to creep across the stage and down the ramp. The spotlight turns to white as the hooded SuperNova raises her head to look out across the audience before slowly beginning her walk to the ring, ignoring the boos, jeers, and outstretched hands of the fans. She climbs the stairs before ducking under the second rope to walk to the middle of the ring, standing next to Anton before holding her arms wide and looking up to the ceiling as the red spotlight shines down on her for a few moments before shutting off. She takes the microphone from Anton, not lowering her hood before beginning to speak.

Risa Jackson: For the better part of two years, people cheered for the masked wrestler known as "Super Tiger."

She lowers the mic as the crowd boos, not lifting her head. Her face is concealed by the hood as she raises the microphone to speak.

Risa Jackson: For a long time, that adoration and support was all I thought I needed to succeed in this business. That if I could get enough of you behind me, nothing could stand in my way.

The 'Tron shows flashes of Super Tiger's career. Various pictures of titles she's held. Pictures and videos of her interacting with the fans at ringside.

Risa Jackson: I was on top of the world… until WrestleWar.

The image of the poster from night two of WrestleWar appears on the 'Tron now, followed by the package that played before the match for the Undisputed Title between Super Tiger and Anton. Anton nods, chin in his hand, as Risa continues.

Risa Jackson: And then I lost. And again. Over and over until nobody was cheering me anymore. All people would tell me was "keep your chin up!" or "it's just a bad spell! You'll snap out of it." But I didn't. Every opportunity I had, I lost. And then he came to me in my dreams at first. What I thought were nightmares were a benevolent King extending his hand to help a lowly competitor shine brighter than she ever had before. He ripped away the rainbow colors and tiger mask shaped blindfold I'd been wearing since I was thirteen years old and exposed to me the truth of this world!

Risa raises her head, lowering her hood finally as she looks at Anton with adulation in her eyes before that becomes a glare of disgust as she sweeps her gaze across the crowd.

Risa Jackson: You all gave up on me! My so called friends held me back so I would never reach my full potential. You all want to know why I attacked Minoru Tanahashi at March Mayhem and cost him a match he was bound to lose anyway?

The Asian woman smirks, shaking her head.

Risa Jackson: Because he was the worst transgressor of all. I carried him on my shoulders to victory while he took all the credit in any interview we had, and treated me like a second fiddle in a one man band. No more. Never again. Now I stand before you, blazing. Brilliant. Unchained and awake. I am no longer burdened by the likes of you or the mantle of the Super Tiger. I am the Sword of House Crowley. I am the Right Hand of the Demon King. And most importantly?

She spread her arms, looking up to the ceiling as the crowd erupts into the loudest series of boos and insults yet.

Risa Jackson: I. Am. Free.

She lowers her head, pulling her hood back up to obscure her face before turning to kneel before Anton, offering him the microphone again. Anton takes the microphone. He nods to Risa allowing her to rise and step back behind him. Then he purses his lips in thought for a moment.

Anton Crowley: Later tonight the next challenger to my title shall be decided. On one hand we have another Salvatore. One I tried to put my faith in. To be the Acheles to my Agamemnon at Invasion. Adriana, the mighty warrior felled in battle. She is lucky she is still fighting. Should she win this match, it would be wise of her to accept the offer. She should Bend The Knee. If she doesn’t? Well, you can look to her brother for what I do to Salvatores that break my trust.

The crowd rains their hatred down on Anton at the mention of him destroying Nico Salvatore’s shoulder. Anton just smiles.

Anton Crowley: Then on the other hand is one who was once close to myself and Kate. The one I used to call my Little Demon. Eavan Maloney. She likes to talk big. That I was only good with her around. That she was the reason I was anything. Yet after I removed the anchor that she was, what did I do? I rose up and took my domain. I seized my Crown. She wants to claim my success as hers. She does this because she knows should we meet that I would not offer her the option. Her only option is destruction. She tried to warp my vision. She tried to weasel herself and inject her taint into my creations. Should she win. She should leave. That is her only chance. Flee and never, ever look back. Stand your ground and be destroyed. Those are the words from your King. That is my decree.

“Head Like A Hole” kicks back up as House Crowley stands tall in the ring. Anton and Kate holding up their titles.

SuperNova v. Trina Tanaka

Before the match began, Minoru Tanahashi had the rest of the front row filled with mannequins all wearing different color Super Tiger Mask and he had a big sign that said GO GO TIGER! The Supernova completely ignored him, even when he ripped the sign in half threw it at her feet, and spit on it. She just walked past it, went up the steps, and continued with her ring entrance even when he held up a small bag and started tossing pieces of what looked like silver towards the ring. “I got all thirty pieces here Super Tiger”!


The efforts of Minoru Tanahashi have zero effect on the new Risa Jackson. She charges Trina Tanaka and hits a running European uppercut right as the bell sounds. SuperNova hits a stiff blistering knife edge chop and follows up with a jaw rattling forearm before she lights Trina up with a series of kicks to the shins and thighs before she drives the air out of her lungs with a rolling sole butt allowing her to spike Trina’s skull into the mat with a snap DDT. Nova makes the cover

TWO…

THR - KICK OUT!

“WOOO! COME ON TRINA! YOU’RE STILL IN THIS!” Minoru looks up at his former partner and flips her off and then gives her two thumbs down, booing as she brings Trina up to her feet and catches a hard palm strike to the face. SuperNova shows a little emotion now, smirking before leveling Trina with a hard palm strike. Trina gets back to her feet and comes at Nova with a forearm strike. SuperNova takes a step back and looks for a forearm of her own, but Trina catches it, spins SuperNova around, and hits her with a backstabber much to the delight of Minoru Tanahashi who is on his feet applauding. Trina scurries over to make the cover, but she only gets a 2 count. Trina pulls SuperNova up and catches a chop to the throat followed by the Type I corkscrew roundhouse kick. Risa makes the cover, hooks the leg and

TWO…

THREE!

~DING DING DING~

Thea Crawford: Your winner as a result of a pin fall, The SuperNova…RISA JACKSON

Miranda Augustino: There it is, win number one for the new and improved Risa Jackson, The SuperNova herself, right hand of King Papi, and she didn’t even let that jerk Minoru Tanahashi distract her.

Andrew Payne: He certainly did try, but she was having none of it. Focused, direct, you could even say cold-hearted was Risa Jackson tonight. She came out here, showed a vicious new style, and really just marches her way towards victory.

Risa allows the ref to raise her hand, then she slips out of the ring stands right in front of her former tag team partner and friend. Minoru stands up and it’s clear any kind of joking or mind games has stopped. He looks down at her shakes his head. “You gonna hit me again little Tiger? At least this time you’re looking me in the damn eyes.” Risa slightly chuckles, scoffing at the idea. She turns away and starts to walk off. “Guess your true self really is a coward.” As the last syllable leave his throat, a vicious chop assures they will be no more. He huddles over and starts grasping at his throat, gagging and gurgling as he tries to suck in air. Risa turns back and walks away, leaving her former friend laying on the ground fighting for breath. He’s finally sorted out and given some water, looking up to see that the SuperNova had already left. He chugs down the water before they escort him to the back to get checked out.

Miranda Augustino: HAHAHA! That’s what you get for running your big mouth to the newest member of House Crowley. Can Risa chop that bastard in the throat every show?

Result: Via Pinfall

The arena lights fade as the driving guitar intro to “Funeral for Yesterday” by Kittie starts up. Red spotlights start passing over the crowd when the guitars and drums kick in. They wander all around the arena as the song continues to play and build.

When the first vocal note hits a white spotlight lights up the entrance as “Favored of the Goddess” Lana Corvin struts out from the back. She stands there looking out arrogantly over the crowd. They show their hate to her, whether it's for her or just her family you can’t be sure.

She starts to strut her way towards the ring as the lights raise and the song continues. She talks some smack with some of the more vocal and heckling members of the crowd. She returns all of their verbal jabs as only one of the Corvins can.


She climbs the ring steps and then into the ring. She circles around out glaring out at the crowd and talking more trash. She then runs to one set up the ropes and stands up on them raising an arm high.


She jumps down and struts around the ring. She eventually gets a mic as her music starts to die down.

Lana Corvin: I assume most of you are wondering why I showed up to NFW without Little Sister. Morgan is in the company, so why wouldn’t she come too? We could have been on Collision and all would have been grand. But Little Sister and I are doing our thing together elsewhere. This venture, this is me being what I was born to be. I am a Corvin. I take glory and fame where I see it and want it.

The crowd boos loudly. Lana just smirks and paces back and forth.

Lana Corvin: I get it. Jealousy is the best you all can muster. Look at what I did earlier. I showed that I am more than just some rookie. That I am the daughter, niece, and sister of World Champions. That I am a World Champion. It’s not a matter of if, but when. I will be Undisputed champion one day, sooner rather than later. You know what though? I do hope the current champion holds the belt when I get my shot. I’d love to beat down that bargain bin, great value, wannabe version of my Uncle or Father.

The crowd sits in silence for a moment. Not sure how to react to their feelings of hate for not only Lana but Anton as well. They want to cheer but don’t want to give Lana the pleasure.

Lana Corvin: You want to fancy yourself a Demon King. Well, your grace, where do Demons reside? In the Darkness. Where my Father ruled. Where my Brother rules. Where I hold more sway than you ever could hope to. I will give Trauma a worthy champion when I take that title. I will give them a legacy champion. One that will show exactly how dynasties are built. You will all see that when Corvins hold gold...

That trademark Corvin smirk curls Lana’s lip.

Lana Corvin: It Ain’t Luck.

She drops a wink into the camera after delivering her father’s famous line. “Funeral for Yesterday” kicks up as the crowd once again shows their dislike and hatred for Lana. She just smiles and walks back up the ramp.
We go backstage where Amy Connors stands in front of the interview backdrop. Amy Connors stands at the ready with her microphone in hand.

Amy Connors: Ladies and gentlemen, Amy Connors here, with--

Voice: Oh! Whoa, whoa, whoa! Amy Connors, what the HELL?!

Amy turns to look off camera, a little dumbfounded as the Super Bitch Squad come strolling into frame: Kayako Kazama and Masami Nishikiyama in their ring gear, Yuka Hirata in her stable track suit and Kaede Tanabe in one of her business pants suits. The latter of the quartet tips her glasses down as she gives Amy a once over in her simple dress and heels.

Kaede Tanabe: Okay. I’m sorry, honey, but this?

She sweeps a finger up and down, gesturing Amy’s overall look.

Kaede Tanabe: I’m sorry, it just...it isn’t a good look.

Amy tenses, a little nervous as she looks down at herself then up at Kaede again.

Amy Connors: I...W...what?

Kaede Tanabe: Your wardrobe, dear. Horizontal stripes? They don’t work for everyone. You, for example. I’d recommend vertical if you have to wear anything striped. More slimming that way. Even better? Dark colors.

Amy’s jaw drops and she looks absolutely speechless. Even a little hurt but Kaede touches her arm.

Kaede Tanabe: Tell you what. Get with me later and I’ll be happy to give you some more pointers, but for now? Give me this.

She gently takes the microphone from Amy.

Kaede Tanabe: Thaaaaank you! Now, if I were you, I’d skedaddle. Between those stripes and what they say about the camera adding ten pounds, I’d be hesitant to be seen if I were you.

Amy’s jaw drops as a gasp escapes her. She looks like she’s about to break as she goes running off camera. Kaede turns to watch her go, eyes going wide above her Covid mask.

Kaede Tanabe: Prompt and right to it! I love it! Anyway, where were we? Ah!

She turns towards the camera again and brings the microphone up. Gathered around her, SBS close in to stand by their manager as she plays impromptu interviewer.

Kaede Tanabe: Yes, konichiwa! Hello and good evening, lovelies! Tanabe Kaede here with none other than the baddest fucking bitches the trios division has ever seen. We have---

She turns, thumbing to Yuka, who slaps the championship on her shoulder.

Kaede Tanabe: Hirata, Yuka! The reigning and defending, motherfucking Luchacore Champion. Joined by the all powerful and sharp minded and highly focused Nishikiyama, Masami! The Queen of Brawn Style!

Garbed in a simple entrance cut-off tee over her gear with her black and red Tiger mask, Masami cracks her neck to the side but remains silent.

Kaede Tanabe: And last but oh so certainly not least, we have the lovely, cunning and as she’ll affirm herself, ever so adorable Kazama, Kayako! Say hi to the folks in the crowd and at home, dear.

Kaede simply tips the microphone to the side in front of Kayako’s face as she waves both hands at the camera with a big smile.

Kayako Kazama: Hello!!! How are you today?!

Kaede tips the mic back in front of her mouth with a smug smirk.

Kaede Tanabe: They’re doing just fine, Kaya-chan, because they’re about to witness an absolute clinic in tag team wrestling because we are S.B.S! The Super Bitch Squad! We’ve been an established unit since before we even got into this business. Now, what does that mean, you ask?

She taps her chin with her index finger and puckers her lips as she bats her eyelashes.

Kaede Tanabe: Chemistry, my dears. Chemistry. You see, most tag teams, most trios, most units in this business; they don’t start meshing until after they’ve been trained and prepared for competition. Us? Oh, lovelies, we’ve meshed since we were adolescents. We know how one another acts. We know how one another thinks. There is a bond here that is unmatched by any other alliance. Fitting, then, that we should find ourselves up against another such unit. Yes, I’m speaking of The Rock Hearts. We’re not going to overlook your reputations and achievements. Far from it. We’re aware of what you bring to the table. Your history. Your experience. Your accolades. Yes, you - Griffin Hawkins and Stacy Jones - have acquired before, what has eluded us and it is that which is why I’m warning you not to underestimate us! You see, while it’s true that Yuka-chan here has tasted gold already, these two have not.

She motions around her to Masami and Kayako. Kayako waves again, excitedly.

Kaede Tanabe: They still have their eyes on one thing: the NFW Tag Team Championships. Well, it would seem as though my girls here still have to earn their keep and prove what they are capable of. And, what better way to do it than against a tag team of your pedigree? Make no mistake, Hawkins. Make no mistake, Jones. We do not overlook what you’ve done. We do not underestimate your capabilities. However, you two are running on full stomachs of success. S.B.S...are hungry...and I promise you...a starving pack of wolves...is much more dangerous….

Kaede tips her shades down, winks and lifts them back up before tossing the microphone away, underhanded to the side and off screen before snapping her fingers in the air.

Kaede Tanabe: Girls!

She leads the way off towards Gorilla position. Masami follows her, then Yuka, before Kayako waves at the camera again with a beaming smile.

Kayako Kazama: Bai baaaaaaiiiiiii!!!!

She says before skipping off after her friends as the shot cuts to ringside.

Rock Hearts v. SBS

The match started off with Griffin Hawkins for The Rock Hearts and Kayako Kazama for SBS. Like clockwork, Kayako tried to go for her cheap allure by extending her arm for a handshake and the biggest, beaming smile she could muster. Head tilt and all. Griffin looked like he was about to take the bait, reaching out for her hand before he suddenly lunged at her, stomping his foot on the mat and just let out a sudden “BOO!” Kayako yelped; so loud enough it came out as a squeak and the deceptively evil Joshi scurried out of the ring, hopped over the barricade and took cover, peeking over the edge with wide eyes. Inside the ring, Griffin held a hand to his gut, laughing hysterically. Stacy buried her face down into her arm, shaking with laughter as well. At ringside, Yuka Hirata threw her free arm out to the side while Kaede disputed with the referee. Masami just fiddled with the tag rope, coldly watching the Rock Hearts.

As the referee began to count, Kaede had to urge Kayako to come back over to ringside and get back in. Kayako shook her head, absolutely refusing until Masami motioned her over and called out something in Japanese. Only then did Kayako hop back over and slide back into the ring at the count of 15, where she tagged Masami into the match. The crowd booed Kayako for her cowardice as Masami and Griffin circled up. The Jukebox Hero was still feeling a little playful, feigning little lunges at Masami to see if it’d make her jump like her partner but the Queen of Brawl Style just stared back at him and moved in for a lockup. Griffin gave her the slip and shrugged to the crowd but as he was doing so, Stacy started to call out to him as a visibly frustrated Masami rushed in and blindsided him with a forearm to the back of the head. A series of forearms sent Hawkins back into the corner before Nishikiyama whipped him across the ring into the opposite corner. She was right on his tail, hitting a big running European Uppercut. Griffin stumbled out of the corner and Masami came off the ropes, rocking him with a big lariat. She beat her fist on her chest and roared to the crowd. She picked Griffin up for a suplex but he slipped loose and blasted her with a European Uppercut of his own. Hawkins hit the ropes and bounced off for a back spring crossbody but Masami caught him out of the air, really showcasing her power. Her knees shook as she dipped down but she managed to muscle Griff’s 227lbs back up with clenched teeth and a red face before swinging him around into a reverse powerslam. She popped up on her knees, clenching her fists and let out another fired up roar before going for a cover but only getting a two count. She grabbed Griffin up by his hair and ignored the referee’s warning. He started to count but before he could make it to 5, Masami tagged Kayako back in and shoved Griffin into the corner. From there, she whipped Kayako across the mat, giving her some extra oomph to hit a big running shoulder block into the corner. Kayako immediately rolled back, popped up to her feet and tilted her head, waving “bai baiiiiiii” to Griff before hitting a big enziguri.

The referee had to put his foot down to get Masami out of the ring and as he did, Kayako used the distraction to hold onto the top rope and start jumping up and down, delivering double stomps onto Griff. Stacy Jones attempted to get into the ring to stop it but the referee saw that before he saw what Kayako was doing. Kayako took the opportunity to stop her underhanded tactics lest she get caught. Griffin rolled out of the ring to catch a breather but Stacy was still arguing with the referee about what SBS was doing as Yuka Hirata came around the corner of the ring with the Luchacore Title and SMASHED Griffin across the back with it!! Kayako jumped and clapped. The referee finally came over and saw Griff down on the floor with Yuka too close for comfort. She threw her hand up innocently and the official demanded she get back over by SBS’ corner. Stacy dropped off the apron and came over to check on her partner as he was getting up onto his knees. Griffin assured her he was okay and told her to get back over to their corner. He rolled back into the ring and, immediately, Kayako was on his back like a little monkey before he even got back up to his feet. Griffin stumbled around, trying to get her off as she threw wild forearms across the back of his head. They seemed more of a nuisance than harmful as Griffin could be heard audibly yelling for someone to get this crazy chick off of him. Finally, he ran backwards and pancaked Kayako in the corner. Kayako slumped and Griffin grabbed her by the back of the head, walking her over to the Rock Hearts’ corner where he tagged in Stacy Jones. Together, the rocking tag team hooked their arms around her head and neck. They threw the rock horns to the air and hit a Double DDT, spiking little Kayako’s head into the mat. Griff got back to his feet and immediately sprinted across the ring and knocked Masami off of the apron with a big dropkick before going back to his corner. Landing on her feet, Masami touched her jaw and lip where Griffin had nailed her, looking furious.

Stacy Jones proceeded to work over Kayako Kazama with her stiff strikes. She put the girl down on the mat with a kick to her right side, followed by a kick to her right side, a spinning back kick to her gut then finally a buzzsaw kick to her head. Stacy went for a cover but Masami came diving in to break it up before the three count. She pulled Stacy up, driving an elbow into the back of her head to daze her just enough before throwing her into the ropes, catching her on the way back and drove her down with a big Spinebuster. Masami popped up to her feet, sneering down at The Unbreakable One but she soon turned and POW!! Shot In The Dark from Griffin Hawkins and The Queen Of Brawn Style goes down!! Masami rolled out of the ring and the referee started telling Griffin to get back out on the apron. With his back turned again, he didn’t see Stacy getting up by the ropes when Kaede Tanabe came in with that damn pepper spray again, hitting Stacy right in the eyes. Griffin saw it and frantically tried to get the referee to turn around but by the time he did, Kaede had stuffed the spray back in her bag and moved back around to SBS’ corner. Furious, Griffin slipped out of the ring and went over to confront Kaede. Meanwhile, Kayako pulled Stacy to the center of the ring and delivered her Whoopsy Daisy DDT and went for the cover. Before Griffin could move to go break it up, Yuka Hirata stepped in behind him and hit a blatant kick below the belt as the referee was busy making the 3 count.

Thea Crawford: Here are your winners!! Masami Nishikiyama and Kayako Kazama...S.B.S!!!

Andrew Payne: That might have been the most underhanded, disgusting display I’ve ever seen these girls pull off!

Miranda Augustino: We don’t agree on much, Andy, but I’m kinda inclined here!

“Senbonzakura” played as Kaede got into the ring with Kayako and called for the crowd to applaud her instead of booing her….like they currently were. Yuka got into the ring as did Masami, once she got back to her feet and SBS celebrated the victory in the ring before Griffin got back to his feet and started getting in the ring. The four girls made their exit then as Griffin gingerly made his way over to Stacy and let her know he was there as she was still having trouble seeing. As SBS triumphantly strolled up the walkway to the stage, Griffin fumed, pointing a finger at SBS. It was unclear which one he was the angriest at until he made the “two” motion. Quickly picking up on the signal, Yuka pointed to herself with an amused grin on her face and spread her arms out, title in one hand, calling out to Griff “whassup? You want some of this?” Griffin nodded, motioning for her to bring her ass back to the ring. Yuka handed Kaede the Luchacore Title and walked towards the ring with a sense of purpose in her steps. Griff got up and put himself in front of Stacy but Yuka stopped suddenly and laughed, throwing the man two middle fingers and waving dismissively. The crowd booed her as she went back to her group, laughing their jeers off.

Andrew Payne: She’s backing off now, but if Yuka Hirata keeps pressing the matter, she’s gonna find herself backed into a corner.

Miranda Augustino: No kidding, Andy!

Result: Pinfall

The crowd gives a mixed reaction as we shift backstage to find Adrianna Salvatore in the locker room area. Sitting on a bench, she’s just finishing up with her boots when someone knocks on the door. The brooding blonde lifts her eyes from the floor and watches as she slowly straightens in her seat. She rises and stands her ground, stoically watching the door past the camera.

Voice: A, it’s me. You decent?

The aggressive demeanor fades from her body language as her shoulders relax and she walks over to the door. Upon opening it, Adrianna makes room for her brother, Nico, to step inside. There’s a pop from the crowd at the presence of the former superstar. Adrianna closes the door and steps back into the room.

Nico Salvatore: Whattup, sorella? You ready for this shit? Eavan Maloney? Title shot chance?

Nico throws his forearm up but gets left hanging as Adrianna moves over to pick up her vest and calmly slip it on. She tugs on the lapels, causing a soft jingle of the decorative chains.

Nico Salvatore: Okay, we’re in quiet mode today. Look, I know I don’t need to tell you this. We used to roll with Eavan. You know she’s dangerous. I don’t know if you’re getting in the zone right now or if you’re underestimating her. Hopefully it ain’t the latter. I know how bad you’ve wanted this opportunity again. It just occurred to me, though, you got another opportunity here, too, which is why I came here.

Adrianna zips up her gear bag and turns towards her brother. At 5’9, she just barely has to look up at her 6’2 fraternal twin. Nico stares her hard in the eyes, unphased by the look from her that tends to shake most others.

Nico Salvatore: Listen to me. I’ll be the first one to back you up. Obviously. But...and don’t take this the wrong way...be careful, A. You know what House Crowley’s capable of. Just as much as I do.

Adrianna stands there, hands resting on the lapels of her vest as she inhales deep through her nose and straightens her posture more. Nico doesn’t budge a muscle. Finally, Adrianna gives her brother a hearty pat in the side of the shoulder before stepping around him and heading out of the locker room. Nico turns, watching her go. A sigh escapes him as he half brings a hand up to cover his eyes then just drops it.

Nico Salvatore: Fuck….

He moves out of the locker room then, as the scene switches away.
The arena goes black as small lights start to light up all around, moving gracefully around the void like fireflies.

With what's written on my heart

I will... BREAK!

BREAK!

The darkness breaks suddenly at the moment of the scream as Eavan Maloney walks out, dressed in a black and red fur-lined cloak, a Viking axe and a… very familiar-looking blue and white shield. Faye Brown comes out with her, still upset about what happened earlier.

Andrew Payne What the hell is Eavan wearing? The woman has lost her damn mind.

Miranda Augustino She used to cosplay long before wrestling, and it wouldn’t surprise me if this was a not so subtle shot at one Geekette Extraordinaire. Though that shield… wait a minute!

As the two step in the ring, Eavan leans the axe and shield in a turnbuckle, before untying the cloak to reveal her Shieldmaidens kutte underneath to a loud pop. Fate is applauding in the corner as well, before Eavan lifts her shield over her head, before putting it down again. Her mood hardens quickly as she is given a microphone, and begins to pace the ring.

Eavan Maloney Before I begin, I would like all of you to welcome the TRUE Perseverance Champion, and one of my closest friends, Faye Brown. This woman was dealt raw deal after raw deal in her life, and at March Mayhem, just when everything was to become better in her world, La Sirvientas de Yum Kimil made the choice to make the moment about them, and kidnapped Logan. Many a day and night, Faye has been staying with me at Hushåll Zdunich, trying to locate him, looking for ways to return him to where he belongs. Sleepless nights, nightmares when she CAN sleep, believing that La Sirvientas were this dominant team. An unconquerable challenge. Tonight, though, they showed their true colors by running away. Ladies, take a look at the two women standing in this ring right now. You may have Logan, but what you DON’T have is heart. Talent. A conscience. As Freyja is my witness, if we have to walk barefoot through Hell to get to you, you can bet your arses we’ll do so. Logan, we WILL bring you home.

Eavan pats Faye on the shoulder and says something the mic barely picks up, before Eavan stretches her neck and continues.

Eavan Maloney Which leads me to this moment, where in a few minutes’ time, Adrianna Salvatore and I will battle in this very ring for a chance at the Undisputed Championship. A title that would already be mine had it not been for the past that transpired as it did. We wouldn’t be hearing about House Crowley at all. Salvatore and I have brawled in the past, I know what she brings, and she knows what I can bring. Tonight is for us. Tomorrow, the House will start to crumble, and not one will have a seat in Odin’s Hall once I get my hands on them. I am Krigare, I am a Shieldmaiden, and I’m here to fight. Salvatore, get your arse out here and let us settle this.

#1 Contender For The NFW Undisputed Championship

Adrianna Salvatore v. Eavan Maloney

The bell sounds and these two women don’t even hesitate. The two of them meet in the middle of the ring and start to throw hands with one another. The crowd seems to be split between the two competitors as Eavan slowly starts to get the advantage in the exchange. Eavan hits the ropes. She comes off the ropes and delivers a head scissors takedown that sends Adrianna out to the floor. Eavan hits the ropes once again and she goes for a suicide dive, but Adiranna meets her with a forearm as she’s coming through the ropes. Adrianna then grabs Eavan and delivers a snap suplex onto the floor. She picks Eavan up and drives her back first into the barricade before rolling her back into the ring. Adrianna rolls back into the ring and picks Eavan up. Adrianna goes for a sliding lariat, but Eavan drops down and avoids the move. Eavan rolls through and delivers a kick to the head of Adrianna.

Eavan picks Adrianna up and sends her into the corner. Eavan charges in and delivers a corner splash before she grabs Adrianna out of the corner and delivers an exploder suplex. Eavan climbs to the top rope and she delivers a missile dropkick. She picks Adrianna up and she then delivers Gnat Gnat. Eavan hooks the leg and goes for a cover, only to get a two count. Eavan picks Adrianna up again and this time, she delivers a release German suplex. Adrianna, though, rolls out of the ring once again. Eavan once again goes for a suicide dive and this time, she hits the move. As Eavan picks Adrianna up, the lights go out. The crowd buzzes as the arena sits in darkness for a while. When the lights come back on, Adrianna, Eavan, and Faye are all lying motionless on the floor, bloodied and unmoving. The referee has no choice but to start the ten count and count both women out of the match.

Result: Double countout

Andrew Payne: Who the hell did this and ruined what had the makings of a classic match?!

Miranda Augustino: Well, it could have been one of two groups or both of them. Both Siervientas and House Crowley had a stake in this match.

Andrew Payne: Maybe we’ll get more answers next Trauma, Mir, but that’s all the time for tonight.