MWE Presents: HEROES & CONS

MWE Presents: HEROES & CONS
Live from Madison Square Garden in New York, NY
Saturday, September 22, 2018

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The show comes to life panning over pyrotechnic display on the Millennium Wrestling stage: For Heroes & Cons, a scale of the New York City skyline provides the backdrop for the massive stage, with a spotlight showing off the famous Millennium logo in the clouds. A figure stands on one of the towers, silhouetted against the moonlight in a heroic pose. "Waking Lions" by Pop Evil blasts through the arena, pumping up the audience in attendance. The cameras pan around the arena, showcasing the sold-out crowd, focusing in on a few of the fan-made signs:

"LET’S GO D’LO" “Vivi Put a Hex on Me” “LIBBEHHHH” “#ChooseYourSide” “Saki Bomb” “The Malone Zone” “Cat Fuel Can’t Melt Steele Dreams” “Jenni Yang Gonna Do The Thang” “Britt Kane is the Cooler Sibling” “KACE IN THE PLACE” “Don’t Fear the Reaver” “I Came To New York To See the Have My Babies Guy”

The show cuts to the broadcast table.

Bea Torres: “FAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAM!”

Jared Idol: “Ladies and Gentlemen, we are here in NEW YORK CITY, and what a historic night it is. Our first major event outside our hometown of Chicago, Illinois and… well, listen to this!”

Bea Torres: “THIS SHIT IS BANANAS.”

Jared Idol: “These people are going crazy for Millennium, and I can’t say I blame them! We’ve got a HUGE night of action tonight, all culminating in the Steel Cage Scramble.”

Bea Torres: “Jennifer Yang faces her biggest challenge yet. Four other stars, all trying to get their hands on the big prize. To win, they’ll have to get INTO the cage, where it’ll become a one-fall match. Anything could happen!”

Jared Idol: “Of course, the other championships are on the line as well. Kate Steele takes on Catriona MacKenzie, and Tiffany Tompkins has taken up the gauntlet and will face off against Britt Kane.”

Bea Torres: “SPEAKING OF KANES, thanks to popular fan vote, it’s going to be Vivienne Robichaud going up against Chris Kane. The winner of that one goes on to the main event later tonight.”

Jared Idol: “And that means one of those two COULD be walking out of here with the Millennium Championship.”

Bea Torres: “You know who else could walk out with the Millennium Championship? Nessa Wall.”

Jared Idol: “She DOES hold the Millennium Case, and especially recently, she’s hinted that the time may be coming. Could it be tonight?”

Bea Torres: “Could you imagine??”

The show pulls away from the commentary and cuts backstage.

---

Ahead of the opening match, the show transitions to a pre-recorded video, shot on a smartphone by Selina Metzger. Dressed in her ring attire and a t-shirt, “Der Übermensch” is seen somewhere backstage at MSG, and she begins by offering a smile to the camera.

Selina Metzger
So, the big night is finally here, as Madison Square Garden plays host to Millennium Wrestling, and what better way to start off HEROES & CONS than with the superhuman herself?

Selina's smile broadens slightly, as she raises her free arm and gives a flex of her bicep.

Selina Metzger
Someone who already has firsthand experience of my super strength is Christina Rose, who was my opponent three weeks ago when I made my Millennium debut. She is of course also my opponent here tonight, and while she tries to reverse what happened in our previous match, I’m confident that I can achieve the same outcome.

She takes a breath, before continuing.

Selina Metzger
I think it’s fair to say that Christina didn’t react well to the loss she suffered at my hands, as she wasted little time in demanding a rematch. I guess losing to someone who was competing in just the second match of their career must have really hurt her ego; she’ll be hurting even worse after I defeat her for a second time.

A confident smirk crosses her face.

Selina Metzger
She also questioned my sportsmanship, apparently taking offence to some of the things that I tweeted following my victory. I felt that I was just telling it like it was, and I stand by that, but even so, it certainly seemed to rub her up the wrong way. Maybe she thought that I was being a sore winner; maybe she thought that I was being overly cocky. Frankly, I don’t really care. Christina is a woman who proudly boasts that she has too many achievements to list them all, so I ask you, of the two of us, who is really the one that is arrogant?

There is a nonchalant shrug from Selina.

Selina Metzger
I’m well aware that just because I've beaten Christina once, that doesn't guarantee that I’ll beat her a second time - I may be a rookie, but I’m not that naïve. This is a different match, in a different venue, and there could be a different result… or not. It’s also a much bigger stage than the one that we fought on three weeks ago, with more people watching us, which in turn brings greater pressure. My shoulders are broad enough to bear whatever pressure comes my way though, and the fact that there will be more eyes on our match tonight than there were on our previous one simply means that this time, more people will get to see Der Übermensch beat Christina Rose.

Selina looks away from the camera, as she pauses momentarily; after a couple of seconds, she returns her focus to her smartphone and its camera, and continues.

Selina Metzger
Christina, I told you a couple of weeks ago that if you want sportsmanship, then I would shake your hand the next time we met - and I’m still willing do that. In fact, I’ll shake you hand before and after the match, if you want. However, in between the bells, don’t expect me to show any hint of kindness. I’m not here to make friends - I’m here to improve as a wrestler, but I’m also here to be successful, and tonight I intend to prove that lightning can indeed strike twice, Christina, as it’s about to be “Game Over” for you at my hands for a second time.

Selina then stares confidently into the camera lens, as the video comes to an end.

---

Christina Rose VS Selina Metzger

Jared Idol: “I don’t think Christina is going to be happy with that one.”

Bea Torres: “If she wakes up, anyway.”

Jared Idol: “Selina Metzger has looked damn good since her debut here in Millennium. She’s still a rookie, and we’ve seen some mistakes here and there, but if she can clean up the rough spot… boy, she’s going to be a tough one to beat.”

Bea Torres: “For now though, Christina Rose’s revenge is going to have to wait, as Selina gets the big win here in New York!”

Selina looks down at Christina, shaking her head. Realizing she’s not going to get that final handshake, she chuckles and leaves the ring, heading back up the ramp. The show cuts backstage.

---

Sitting backstage in the hallowed halls of MSG is Christopher Kane. He’s in his wrestling gear, looking straight forward. Nothing elaborate. Just him.

Christopher Kane
Tonight, tonight was suppose to be the night. The night where I finally put Ace Watson to bed. But he got hurt, something, don’t know what it was exactly, but he’s gone. Done. Apparently done with wrestling.

He sighs.

Christopher Kane
I told him he was going to leave here nameless and he is. The only legacy he leaves now is one where he got hurt going into one of the biggest shows in this company’s history. So long, Ace, you’re always going to be a bitch.

A smirk now as he doesn’t glance over to the camera.

Christopher Kane
Instead, I face Mistress Vivi tonight. Winner moves on to the main event. I’m sure that was going to be in place before Ace hurt his sandy vagina. The last time I got in the ring with Vivi, she pinned me in the middle of the ring. I won’t make excuses about it, she was the better wrestler that night. She’s talented. She is worthy of our respect as a collective group in this company.

A slight pause.

Christopher Kane
She dislikes me and my family. That’s fine. Really doesn’t bother me. What does bother me is when she says I have no room to complain or vent. I’m a spoiled brat? You chose to work for a company that only sees a select few as people who get put in matches on a consistent basis, you cannot blame me for that. You cannot blame me for waiting four years to get a shot at being a champion.

Shake of the head.

Christopher Kane
You don’t see through Chuck Matthews like I do. I’ve seen scumbag promoters since I was six years old, Vivi. I know this sport, and I know that he isn’t a professional like he claims. In fact…

Vivi Robichaud
In fact, Christopher, you have completely misunderstood everything that I’ve said to you. I do not blame you for the faults of other promoters. What I blame you for is thinking that success in one company should automatically translate to special treatment in others. That, child, is why I called you a spoiled brat. Because instead of earning your opportunities, you choose to piss and moan on Twitter. Instead of speaking in private to your employer, you prefer to make a spectacle of yourself.

Vivi rolls her eyes.

Vivi Robichaud
It has taken me years to get what some people achieve in this business in mere months. It was something that used to drive me mad, because why should I be overlooked for championship opportunities? Why should I have to be the one to wait, and wait, and wait, while others got their promised matches in mere weeks?

The Voodoo Queen of New Orleans sighs and shakes her head.

Vivi Robichaud
I couldn’t see it then, but now I have the benefit of hindsight. I didn’t get the opportunities I wanted because I was not ready to carry the responsibility. So I went back to square one, and I won my first major title. I’m aiming for another one in a different company. And tonight, young Kane, I have the chance at the Millennium Championship, if I beat you for a spot in the main event.

Vivi Robichaud
You say I don’t know Mr. Matthews as you do, and yet unlike you, I worked alongside the man for years. I’ve watched him as he’s built his empire. I was in Vengeance during what everyone thought would be his takeover of the company, and ended up instead launching Millennium into the stratosphere. In case you’ve forgotten, I was the only one who stood aside when that feud was happening, because I figured out Chuck’s gameplan. I came here because Chuck offered me a contract, and I intend to fulfill my end of the bargain, just as I expect him to fulfill his. He books me in matches, I fight in them, end of story. You don’t “see through” Chuck’s bullshit. You see what you want to see, because you’re too full of yourself to understand what’s going on. But I suppose that isn’t your fault. Despite your claim of vast experience, you’re still very young. I suggest you take some time to grow up before you decide to play with the big kids.

Vivi Robichaud
I’ll see you in the ring. And I will prove that I am the one who belongs in the main event scramble match for the Millennium Championship. Good night, Mr. Kane, and good luck. You’ll need it.

Christopher watches Vivi walk away with uttering a single word to her. He sighs and shakes his head.

Christopher Kane
Into the mouth of hell, we march.

---

We come back and we are able to see the one and only Kate Steele with the Lockdown Championship slung over a fold chair. Kate seems to be sitting on a chair right next to it. Kate slowly lifts her head up as she is all grins. She turns her head directly to the camera as she takes a long deep breath and begins to speak.

Kate Steele
Wow Madison Square Garden, they call this the World’s Most Famous Arena. It doesn’t get any bigger than it does with competing in the Garden. I mean when people think of the Garden I know the New York Knicks instantly comes to mind or even the fact that Billy Joel is always here selling the arena out in the best way that he can. It doesn’t get bigger than being able to compete in the Garden. I know I am from England but the truth my dad moved my family from England to New York when I was 12 years old. I love being in New York.

Kate nods her head with a smile as she continues to speak.

Kate Steele
This place has always been a second home from me and most of my teenage years were spent growing up in Greenwich Village, New York City. A true Western Manhattan girl, and I know I know reside in Florida but New York is home, and it’s going to feel amazing to go back to the arena I grew up idolizing. The place where I got to see my idol Joan Jett performing and for the longest time I idolized how I might be able to go to the Garden as a performer and sell it out with my band. That day did come to pass when I came here with Ignorant Discord touring with Griffin Hawkins band but now it’s not about performing a rock show in front of these fans. It’s about competing as a wrestler and it’s about showcasing to the world why I am the best damn Lockdown Champion that this company has ever had.

Kate can’t help but offer a wide wicked grin as she looks at her championship. She picks it up and places it proudly against her chest.

Kate Steele
And tonight in the world’s most famous arena I get to compete in a match under Steele rules which means I am going to tap a Bitch out and it’s going to be absolutely beautiful. I am going to humble Catriona in front of the roaring crowd. I am going to humiliate that tattooed Bitch and she isn’t going to like it one bit. But I get to test myself against someone who has earned her way into getting to this match. Catriona Mackenzie you have a date with destiny. You get to put your skills to the test when you step into the ring with a six year veteran of the sport.

Kate holds her championship as she pats is with a grin before she looks deeper into the camera.

Kate Steele
Now I have been in this company for a very long time. I have been here since it was Pride and a woman who is practically my sister in Violet Ripley told me I should come over, and to support her I came over and did my very best in the company. I didn’t have much luck but I stuck it out and when Kristopher Ryans and Violet were on their way out and the company became Millennium I decided to stick it out because I had nothing but faith for this company. I struggled at first but I climbed, I clawed, and I fought my way through the bullshit to get to where I am, and now look at me I am a champion!

Kate nods her head as she continues to speak.

Kate Steele
After the long struggle you think I am going to just depart from my championship in a match that best suits me? No it’s simply not going to happen that way. I worked too fucking hard just for me to lose everything before I have a chance to really establish my identity as a wrestler here. Catriona you do have some good qualities to you. I mean you are from Scotland and that means a lot to me since I am half Scottish. Tonight it will be the battle of England vs Scotland but I can tell you that I am going to emerge victorious. It’s also going to be the Lassie Lock taking on my Shipwrecked and of course my Siren’s Song. At all costs I have one thing on my mind and I plan to either break Cat’s arm or choke the Bitch out. It’s as simple as that and I will keep it moving. I know I might be a little undersized in this match but that really doesn’t mean anything. I know for a fact that I make it up with my technical skill. I am going to wrestle this match at my pace and I am going to leave the arena with my championship still around my waist and my hand raised proudly to the air.

Kate smiles again as she holds the championship up as she continues to speak.

Kate Steele
You want this Catriona?! You better be willing to pour it all in the middle of the ring. You better be ready to break me down but I guarantee this title isn’t going to go anywhere, anytime soon. So you better bring it Mackenzie but it won’t be enough. You hear that? It’s the loud sounds of my Siren Song follow and you will find yourself SHIPWRECKED!!!! See you soon please don’t tap out too early!

With that Kate grabs her tightly as she walks out and we go to elsewhere.

---

Christopher Kane VS Vivi Robichaud

Jared Idol: “He… he did it!”

Bea Torres: “Chris Kane beat Vivi Robichaud! Chris has a date with the Millennium Championship!”

Jared Idol: “But at what cost? That was a tremendously draining match for Kane, and while he’s got most of this show to recover… is that going to be enough to prepare him for what’s sure to be another grueling match in the main event?”

Bea Torres: “He’s going to have to dig deep, for sure. This is going to really test the tenacity of Chris Kane.”

Chris stands, shaking slightly, but smiling at his success. He looks up the ramp, as though expecting something, anything, that might take this moment away from him. When Chuck, nor Ella, nor his security emerge, he breathes a sigh of relief, and raises his hand in victory. He looks to the stage again, motioning around his waist. One more match, and Chris Kane would be walking out, against all odds, as the Millennium Champion. The show cuts to a promotional video for MEN TV’s Fall lineup.

---

As soon as the Arena plunges into darkness and “The Ecstasy Of Gold” by Ennio Morricone starts playing, the entire Madison Square Garden erupts in an unison round of boos, something Grace van Beek learned to grow accustomed to. Something she doesn’t seem to mind when she walks out of the curtain with the usual scornful look on her face,. Escorted as always by her most trusted men, lead by Ryen Rieker. she walks down the red carpet previously rolled down the ramp with her prideful long stride. Eventually, the self proclaimed “Change Millennium needs” steps into the ring, demanding and being handed a microphone..

Grace van Beek
Heroes and Cons. How fitting.

She starts off, her eyes gazing all over the hostile crowd.

Grace van Beek
I see where you all stand, where everybody in the Millennium roster stands. You decided to buy the narrative Mr Matthews has been feeding you,, therefore painting me as the villain.. You allowed his shining lies to blind you, preventing you to see the rottenness he has been trying to hide under the carpet. Right under your nose.

She answers the subsequent jeers with a grimace of disdain, shaking her head.

Grace van Beek
This is exactly what I mean. Please, continue behaving like good sheeps, blindly following your good shepherd mister Matthews. Keep painting him like the hero he is not. That is his biggest con, after all. Pretending he is the good and honest guy. always doing the right thing while, instead, he is only pushing his own agenda, driven by nothing but bias and personal liking. You do not believe me? Take a look at the poster for this event.

She points her finger to the big tron above the entrance which immediately comes to life showing the “Heroes and Cons” advertisement.

Grace van Beek
I have been portrayed as villain of one of those comic books. I have been told its name is… Venom?

Grace shoots a quick perplexed glance at Ryen, who nods in confirmation.

Grace van Beek
Is that what you think of me Mr Matthews? Is that what you all think of me? That I am poison, contaminating the perfect heaven that is Millenium Wrestling? Foolishness.

Shaking her head, she keeps talking despite the jeers of the crowd.

Grace van Beek
Quite the contrary, I am the antidote. I am the only cure for this place. Of course, you can say my methods are a tad blunt, but while sometimes you need surgical precision to treat a disease. Some other times, the approach shall be more.. Drastic.

A devious smirk appears on her face.

Grace van Beek
But none of this matters anymore, because after tonight I will ascend to the top of Millenium, where I belong. I will go through the Steel Cage Scramble and walk out with the most coveted prize and the, there will be no more sides to choose. Once the Diamond Princess becomes the Queen, everybody, no one excluded, shall bow down.

Dropping the microphone, she leaves the ring and walk away, flaunting her usual confident smile.

---

Jared Idol: "Before we head on to our Cloud Gate championship bout tonight, we caught up earlier with the young lady who will be challenging the Heckin' Panda for her title. How much does this opportunity mean to Tiffany Tompkins? Let's find out."

The camera fades out from the commentary table. Moments later, a video package is shown of Five Foot Death Kick herself. The package was shot earlier in the day; aside from the Millennium ring sitting in the middle of the arena, Madison Square Garden was full of empty seats. Tiffany Tompkins, donning a grey hoodie and black yoga pants, is resting in the rafters, overlooking the empty arena and pondering on one of the biggest moments in her entire career. This view is cut by clips of Tiffany's interview prior to her upcoming match.

Tiffany Tompkins
This has been one hell of a journey for me. It's hard to believe that, on the first day of 2018, I couldn't even get booked for a pre-show...

The interview is cut out by the shot of Tiffany in the rafters, who speaks directly into the camera behind her.

Tiffany Tompkins
...I can't believe it. This is so unreal. MSG. The most famous arena in the freakin' world! And I got a title match here......I...I just......wow.

The camera follows Tiffany walking down the stairs to the ground level as Tiffany's voiceover continues.

Tiffany Tompkins
Madison Square Garden. You can scratch that off my bucket list. I just didn't think it'd happen so soon. I mean this year has been one hell of a roller coaster for me. Since the RISE doors were closed, it's like my career has truly taken off in ways I never imagined. Never did I ever imagine that I would be competing in a championship match at MSG just a few months after my 18th birthday!

The interview is cut off by Tiffany, back in the arena, pointing at herself in one of the Millennium posters outside the ticket booth.

Tiffany Tompkins
There I am. Me versus Kane. Cloud Gate title on the line. You know, I don't doubt she's worked just as hard as me to get to where she is today. I mean she is the champion after all. She's got a few advantages over me. I know she'll put up a challenge. But if you know me, then you should know by now that I never back down from a challenge, and I do not rest until I prove all my doubters wrong. If any of you think I don't have what it takes, then you'd better watch and learn!

Back in the interview room, after a slight pause.

Tiffany Tompkins
I don't know how many people realize how much of a big deal this is to me. It's not every day you get to realize a childhood dream, and yet here we are. This is why I love Millennium Wrestling. This show has offered me so much. Not to take away from all of the other shows I'm on of course, but it's still 2018, and I've already had several title opportunities; more so than most did when they were my age. I'll admit it though, I haven't had the best luck so far, but today, I've got a really good feeling. I do respect Britty Kane, even though she probably doesn't respect me, but I need this win more than her.

Back in MSG, Tiffany finally reaches ringside. She turns around and sees all the empty seats looking down at the ring, and in that view, Tiffany seems to be completely awe struck.

Tiffany Tompkins
Holy shit. This is nuts. This is really really nuts...

She turns back to the ring. She hops onto the apron and crawls between the middle and bottom ropes. She stands in the middle of the ring, once again circling around to see how vast the arena truly is. Still awe struck, she leans against the ropes as she addresses the camera again.

Tiffany Tompkins
...I know now's not the time to start getting butterflies, but look at this. So many of my childhood heroes have stood in this exact ring. Man...I gotta win tonight. I can't let this opportunity slide. I just gotta win tonight. I want tonight to last forever.

A tear of determination could be seen running down Tiffany's cheek. Noticing this, Tiffany embarrassingly turns away from the camera. Back in the interview room, Tiffany gives her final words...

Tiffany Tompkins
This really is building up to be one of the biggest moments of my career. Bigger than my debut, bigger than beating Ace Watson. But if there's one thing I can't say enough, it's that this is only the beginning. I'll make sure this is the first of many times I get to compete in MSG. I'll make sure to win as many championships as I can. I'll make sure to keep putting on five star matches, and I'll make sure all of my doubters know that I belong here and I am a big deal.

Tiffany stares into the camera with a look of determination. The scene fades back to a brief montage of Tiffany's walk through Madison Square Garden, with a final wide shot of her standing in the middle of the ring. With that final shot, the scene fades out.

---

Kate Steele (c) VS Catriona MacKenzie

Bea Torres: “AND STILL!”

Jared Idol: “Kate Steele knew this match was hers to lose, but she kept on the attack, and she emerges with her reign intact. But don’t take away from Catriona MacKenzie. Her career here in Millennium started slow, but she’s really started to get comfortable in the ring.”

Bea Torres: “Definitely! She may have lost this one, but her work ethic and her drive? She could be holding gold VERY soon.”

Kate clutches the title close to her chest as she rolls out of the ring. She smiles at her success, celebrating her victory as the show cuts backstage.

---

The words "Recorded earlier" appear flickering as the feed begins.

It’s night time, possibly the night prior. In the middle of the road walks the two-tone haired maniac, the Singapore Mauler, Saki. The Kawaii Deathmachine walks with a knife in her hand, blood splattered on her clothes, foot stepping one right in front of the other. Much like a gymnast on a balance beam, she walks along the yellow line in the middle of the road.

Saki
Oh dear, what the fuck have we here? In the clear, it would appear a face without fear. Steer clear, bloodshed is near.

She giggles to herself and twirls the knife in one hand.

Saki
In my business your nose was stuck, now you face annihilation you dumb fuck. Victims, we the wolves that's wilding. We often smilin' at sites of violence. Valiant without villainy. Viciously foul victory. Saki vs Sephora, it’s good for ya, like your face and a chainsaw. Street fight, target in sight...Gonna...gonna...

Saki seems to be in some kind of pain as she doesn’t rhyme, as if the action sickens her. The crazed look in her eyes, however, said it was less about control and more about the lack thereof. As she speaks one more time her face cracks, her eyes wide and almost teary with excitement.

Saki
Gonna...BLEED YOU!!!!

The maniac’s laughter fills the night sky as the camera backs away, the light moving with it and leaving nothing but Saki’s laughter and the glimmer of steel from the knife in the distance.

---

The thunderous drums have worn out their welcome. The oomph and the impact they used to carry with them isn’t the same anymore. Over time it has been rendered mute. So, it is no surprise that there isn’t much of a reaction when Jason Hawk steps out onto the stage. He is still wearing his new attire with the black and red asymmetric tights. He is also wearing a red t-shirt. On the front there are blocky black letters that read “FUCK. YOU. ALL.” Jason has a sack slung over his shoulder. With his head bowed down he walks down the ramp ignoring the fans that pretty much ignore him too. He stops in front of the ring and looks around. Something catches his eye as he slides the sack into the ring. Jason walks to side towards a fan that is balancing eight drinks as he makes his way through the crowd on the front row. Jason jumps the guard rail and follows the fan for a while, just slowly stalking the struggling fan as he breathes down his neck. The fan gets visibly nervous, but his seat is in sight. He has almost made it, but Jason has different plans. Jason turns to get back into the ring but as he does so he subtly trips the nervous fan making him spill the drinks all over the fans around him, resulting in some minor boos towards JHawk. He slides into the ring and picks up the sack.

Jason Hawk
In this sack I hold the fear of all of Millennium. You might not realize it yet because you haven’t paid attention. But what you’ve seen so far is nothing compared to what comes next. Pain suffering and destruction. Broken bones, open wounds and sickening thuds. Your heroes will fall. It will be brilliant. I’ll let you in on a little secret. It might be hard to believe but believe you me. Heroes also die. I am going to kill them myself. Just as mercilessly as you killed off His innocent Flying Majesty.

Jason paces around the ring, frantically searching for any sort of reaction from the fans.

Jason Hawk
That’s right! His Flying Majesty is no more. He is dead and buried by your hands. There is blood on your hands and you didn’t even bother to wash them.

Jason reaches into the sack and takes out the cat-o-nine tails that he had used the previous weeks.

Jason Hawk
As I mentioned I hold here in this sack the pain for you all to feel. Which sadly means that this little thing...

Jason reaches back into the sack and brings out a pair of scissors.

Jason Hawk
Which sadly means that our little friend here is no longer needed. It has become surplus to requirements. I remember how you squirmed and looked away is discomfort and disgust as these whips buried themselves in the backs of your heroes. But I felt no satisfaction. No, you all got off way to easy. This little friend of ours couldn’t get the job properly done.

He says as he starts to cut off the individual tails one by one.

Jason Hawk
No, I got something much worse planned and you’ll get to see it in due time. In fact, you get to see it in action tonight. Because I can’t wait to ruin your night. To utterly destroy your enjoyment. To properly send you back home to your miserable little lives without a happy ending. Tonight, there’ll be more blood on your hands! I cannot be blamed, cannot be held responsible for what is going to happen. You made me do it! You turned me into something I never was. You made me a monster. And for that...

Jason points to his shirt that reads “FUCK. YOU. ALL.” Which surprisingly gets some of the fans to boo him. Even Jason is taken aback by the reaction. He expression changes as he for the first time looks up at the crowd. He only focuses on the small section that is booing him.

Jason Hawk
You know... I really thought we could just continue from where we left off. I was ready to amaze you all again. I was hyped and motivated to remind you all just how great I am, why I am the greatest high-flyer to ever, TO EVER, step foot inside any wrestling ring the world over.

He says without ever breaking his gaze.

Jason Hawk
But you rejected me. I never felt anything like this ever before. I felt the bitter taste of defeat and the sour taste of humiliation. But this, this... I don’t even know how to describe it. Never in a million years would I ever imagine that I would just be forgotten. I left a legacy behind me. I thought it would last. It hasn’t been tarnished. It has been cast away. Thrown away like a worthless piece of trash. I used to wonder how long it took before you forgot about me. Whatever conclusion I come to it hurts. Did you move on straight away? Was I never that important? Did you cling on to my memory for years before losing faith in me? How could you just let me go after all I did for you? It doesn’t really matter. What matters is that you forgot. You threw me away for next guy who came around. How long until you throw him away too? He might not be smart enough to realize it, but it is a vicious circle that keeps repeating itself. They don’t realize it yet, but sooner or later they’ll be replaced too. They might be the ones that get to feel the pain that I cause, but I don’t hate any of them. They are all egocentric idiots. I don’t care if they remember me or not. None of them even come close to my level so what does it matter what they think? I have more experience than most of the roster combined. But you... I expected better from you. As I said, I don’t hate the guys and girls in the back. I...

Jason stops to look around at the rest of the crowd.

Jason Hawk
I hate you.

More of the crowd start to boo him.

Jason Hawk
Tonight, you pay for your sins. Tonight, you face the consequences. Tonight, another hero falls. Tonight, Millennium changes for the worse. Tonight, I hope you suffer.

Jason hesitates for a moment but then continues.

Jason Hawk
...For so it was written
So, it shall come to pass.
.... Forgive me.

He ends as he looks out at the crowd with an empty defeated stare in his eyes. The show goes to a Millennium promotional ad.

---

The show returns to Saki and Sephora standing in the ring, about to get their bout underway. “Brains” by Tremonti roars through the speakers, and the crowd cheers as Chuck Matthews emerges, accompanied by Ella Cross, who brings with her a box with a silk cover over it.

Chuck Matthews
I talk a lot about how matches in Millennium… about how “every match means something” here. Everything has a purpose. Everything has a reason.

He smiles.

Chuck Matthews
Now, I understand you two have had some issues with each other recently. I understand that. But there’s so much more than that, isn’t there?

Saki tilts her head curiously to the side. Sephora frowns, clearly expecting the classic Chuck Matthews cryptic games he was so famous for. Chuck nods to Ella, who removes the cover from the box. It’s a glass case, containing a championship belt looking like a giant golden X, with rubies littering the gold in a pattern designed to look like blood splatter. The side plates contain a red maple leaf on each one, with a familiar old logo emblazoned across them. Chuck admires the work for a moment.

Chuck Matthews
Of course, we didn’t have the real thing… but I think this is an improved replica, don’t you?

He smiles.

Chuck Matthews
Ladies, I would like to introduce you to the new and improved Empire Extreme Championship. See… back when I bought out Golden Globe Wrestling and Empire Pro, I also acquired all their assets and creative property. That included…. The Extreme Championship.

He pauses.

Chuck Matthews
Granted… the physical belt itself is still in the possession of its last champion, and I don’t suppose we’re ever going to get that back… but I think this one more than makes up for it, don’t you? The records will show that Mrs. Gregory’s reign ended with the closing of Empire. And now…. You two are competing for the right to be named the new champion.

The crowd cheers loudly, ecstatic that this historic re-introduction was taking place in New York. Chuck nods to the women in the ring.

Chuck Matthews
Best of luck, ladies.

Saki VS Sephora

Chuck stands up from his place at ringside, carefully removing the shiny new belt from its glass case. He seems a bit uncomfortable as he steps into the ring and approaches the unusual Saki. She looks at him curiously through pink and blue eyes. Chuck frowns, but quickly replaces it with that flashy smile as he hands the belt to Saki and puts his arm around her. This time, it’s Saki who looks uncomfortable as photographers at ringside capture this moment in Millennium history. Saki worms her way free, but looks at the belt with a twisted sense of glee. There was a new championship in Millennium, and the Kawaii Deathmachine was not going to let it go for a very long time.

---

The pre-recorded footage brings us back in time, inside the Convention Center in Chicago one week ago, during the Millennium Expo. The atmosphere is electric, hoards of fans frantically pacing through the various panels, or orderly in queue waiting for a selfie and an autograph from their favorite superstars. Zigzagging through the crowd, the camera takes us to the centre of the expo, where a wrestling ring is set up. Standing in the middle of it there’s a woman who needs no introduction. She might be one of the latest addition to the Millennium roster, but judging from the number of fans gathered around her, it’s safe to say that Aurora Jansen is already one of the most loved and respected stars in the company.

Now were this Chicago this wouldn’t be surprising in the least, even considering her reputation. Chicago crowds were like nowhere else and had been known to be fiesty. But apparently the good will she’d built as a trainer for RISE transferred well.

But there’s not only a significant number of fans joining her in-ring demonstration. Some world class wrestlers are there as well, big names like Millennium’s own Melissa Reeves, HKW and SSWA star Ashlyn De Luca, former APW Champion Aubrey J. Parker, Phoenix Wrestling’s Nina Stokes and the HKW Interbrand Television Champion Tommy Evans are there, for the joy of the people in attendance. A full sized wrestling ring was set in the center of the cleared area and for the most part the fans were keeping a reasonable distance with the flimsy barriers set up for the expo.

Aubrey selected a few fans to come through the barrier for a more ‘up close and personal’ look as Aurora got a microphone and ran Nina, Ashlyn and Tommy through a few things though slowly enough people got a good look at what was happening and no one got crushed by the moves just for a demonstration. The fans are clapping and whistling a bit at the latest exchange as they bring in a fan who signs a waiver, and heads turn as a voice in the back shouts:

Female Voice:
“DDT ME MOMMY!”

Aurora blinks as Aubrey bursts into laughter and the little performer’s microphone she’s wearing picks up her curious reply.

Aurora:
“...Mickey?”

A few more laughs and then they’re back to it, the fans enjoying the various moves as Aurora explains and demonstrates, and then she moves while everyone takes a breather to get some hydration to answer a few questions. Everyone’s attention is drawn off the ring when a bit of a bustle starts from a side of the crowd. The reason? A handful of men dressed in black suits is making its way through the crowd, and not in a gentle way. Walking amongst them, wearing a flashy and possibly over expensive gold sequined dress, the former Cloud Gate Champion is approaching the ring, her eyes locked on Aurora who, obviously, had to interrupt her demonstration.

Grace van Beek:
“Oh, please… Do not mind me, keep going Ms Jansen. I am only here to learn…”

The smirk on her face leaves no doubts. The Diamond Princess is definitely up to something else.

Grace van Beek:
“Perhaps you can teach me how to sneak behind someone’s back and assault him. Like a coward.”

Aurora at this point reaches up with one hand and then that hand pauses - in the past, she’d have flipped her waist length braid away from her neck but of course, Artemis had shorn her hair with bolt cutters in HELL. She turns the motion into a little fingerwave at Grace’s security before she answers, her tone breathy because it’s her, not because of exertion.

Aurora:
“If I can be frank, Ms. van Beek, you’re not looking like the type that learns any kind of lesson with any sort of success, so that’ll be a hard pass. Your boy though? I bet we can teach him. Medium style.”

Tommy’s head whips around from where he’s passing out water bottles at the Metalocalypse quote, eyes narrowing as he watches what’s going on at the other end of the ring as Aurora leans over the ropes a bit.

Aurora:
“How about it Lil Gun, you want to come get your payback? Pride messing with you?”

Grace van Beek:
“Perhaps you would want to be more careful with how you address a former member of the South African Special Forces Brigade, Ms Jansen.”

She quickly glances over at Ryen who’s standing still, stoic and statuesque with his arms crossed on his chest, barely answering Grace’s smile with a light nod. And all this without taking his eyes off Aurora, engaged in what looks like a war of nerves, ready to trigger at a gesture from Grace that, oddly, never comes.

Grace van Beek:
“Or me. All I ever asked you was an apology. I gave you the chance to right the utter show of disrespect you demonstrated when you attacked my security. You couldn’t, and whatever happens next, you brought it upon yourself. Talking about pride messing with you and making you do things you will end up regretting.”

A sneer draws on her lips, growing wider as she steps back, keeping her eyes locked with Aurora’s, challenging her but at the same time, backing off and denying her the fight that seemed to be brewing. It’s clear at this point that Grace isn’t going to budge - and why would she, the gorgeous dress she’s wearing possibly cost more than some of these fans made for a year’s salary. Aurora looks between Grace and an intense looking Ryen before she shrugs and vaults over the top rope, dropping lightly to the apron before hopping down to the concrete and heading in a beeline towards Rikert while a very clear “Oh shit” comes from one of her friends on the other side of the ring. Ryen drops into a fighting stance in front of Grace who hides behind him, imperceptibly resting her hand on his shoulder for a brief moment, in a rare gesture of care. But just before Aurora gets within a few steps of him she’s abruptly yanked right off her feet! The assembled fans gasp and the cameras on the event focus on the massive frame of the man they call Pure Power, Dane Archer as he whips around with Aurora, charges the ring and then flips her up into position for a massive JackKnife Powerbomb right on the apron!

The fans erupt into loud booing as Dane watches Aurora’s crumpled form slide off the apron to the concrete, and at Grace’s call he quickly rejoins the group as Aubrey stops to check her best friend.

Grace van Beek:
“You chose the wrong side, Ms. Jansen. A real shame.”

Nina, Ashlyn and Tommy do the same before Tommy’s head lifts and he focuses on Grace’s group. They retreat with alacrity as the trio move to pursue them with intent, Tommy swearing colorfully as they try to get through the crowd before the group is too far away and without harming any of the expo attendees. To no avail however, as they break through the crowd, Grace, Ryen, Dane and her guards are gone. Aubrey helps Aurora sit up as the pre-recorded footage ends, blocking the view with her back as the fans are left murmuring and disappointed.

---

Aurora VS Dane Archer

Bea Torres: “Oh no…”

Dane was not about to let this go; he had a job to do. With Aurora rocked by the chair shot, he pulled her in, and dropped her with a jackknife powerbomb right on that same steel chair. He looked down at her, and made a motion to leave the ring. Aurora stirred. Dane froze, one leg over the rope, looking back at her. With a groan, he gets back into the ring, and stomps hard on her shin, eliciting a cry of pain from Aurora. He picks her up off the mat, loading her onto his shoulder. Dane charges to the corner, looking to flatten Aurora. At the last moment, she writhes free, to the delight of the fans, sending the big man crashing into the corner himself. He tumbles backwards, and Aurora grabs his head again, looking for another DDT. Dane sends a hard punch to her gut and lifts her up and over his head with a back body drop that sends Aurora crashing seven feet to the mat. Dane picks her up again, into powerbomb position. He looks outside the ring, lifting her over his head. He makes his way to the ropes… Jackknife Powerbomb out of the ring! Aurora lies motionless on the concrete. Dane watches a moment as medics come racing from the back. Finally satisfied with his work, he leaves the ring as Aurora slowly starts to move at ringside.

---

Backstage now and the large crowd in the garden cheer as Melissa Reeves appears on screen. She's standing alone, but ready to address the camera. Behind her is a huge poster for the evening's event, which she points at.

Melissa
"Heroes & Cons. It's a fitting name, don't you think? So many in this industry imagine themselves the hero. More still think themselves the villain. Me, though?"

She scoffs.

Melissa
"I know things aren't so black and white. You learn that when you've been around for a while. You learn a lot when you've been in this for as long as I have."

For a moment she shakes her head, seemingly lost in her own thought.

Melissa
"Kace Matthews? Doesn't have that experience. No, no. He's fresh. Capable? Sure. But driven to succeed like I am? Na, I don't think so. Come on, one look at the guy's social media tells you everything you need to know."

She shrugs and waves a single finger.

Melissa
"Tonight he faces me and you know...a lot of people asked me this week if it's the match I wanted - especially given the poll that may have seen me ending up facing Chris Kane. Here's the thing, I have no burning ambition to face my own boyfriend, so losing that poll suits me just fine. Facing Kace? That suits me just fine too."

There's more than a hint of a smirk on her face now.

Melissa
"So Kace, it's you and me. From the look of things you've had quite the 24 hours but I'm afraid I can't let that matter to me tonight. See, this match? This is important to me and when something is important...when I want it? I do whatever I must to get it."

She clenches her fist, as if gripping something.

Melissa
"Used to be that I'd ask. Used to be that I'd do what I could to get noticed and just rely on the system to reward that. But it's not how wrestling works. Not really. That's another free lesson, by the way. So I'm done asking. I'm done hoping. I'm here in Millennium to MAKE myself known. I'm here to do what I must to TAKE glory and success for myself."

Reeves starts to walk away, then turns back for one last comment.

Melissa
"See you out there, kid."

---

Britty Kane (c) VS Tiffany Tompkins

Jared Idol: “She didn’t tap!”

Bea Torres: “Tiffany promised Britt that she would NEVER tap out to her, and… she didn’t!”

Jared Idol: “It’s heartbreaking. You come out here, Madison Square Garden, championship on the line. There’s no greater pressure than this, and you want to impress and you want to succeed… but the human body has limits, and Tiffany Tompkins found hers.”

Bea Torres: “Don’t say that, listen to these people! They LOVED what these two girls did here tonight. Tiffany Tompkins has DEFINITELY impressed a lot of people with her performance, and I’d be shocked if we didn’t see her get right back to this spot, challenging for Millennium gold, in the very near future.”

The crowd cheers both women as the ringside crew checks on Tiffany, who’s slowly coming back to her senses. She seems heartbroken at the defeat, avoiding the cameras. Britt holds the Cloud Gate Championship high above her head, but motions proudly to Tiffany Tompkins, applauding the stellar performance. The show cuts backstage to the crowd cheering on two of Millennium’s fastest rising talents.

---

The camera pans up, and we get a shot of D’Angelo Blackwell sitting on a production box, stretching his neck! He is dressed in full ring gear and begins addressing the camera.

D’Angelo Blackwell
Yooo, so here we are, Heroes and Cons! I will finally have the opportunity to get my hands-on Nessa Wall, It’s sorta full circle, right? In my debut match here in Millennium I was defeated by Wall, she pulled my tights halfway up my ass and stole a victory, but I didn’t feel the need to chase her, like good for her, she did whatever it took to claim victory… I can’t be mad at that, G. I went on to do my thing for the next few weeks, winning matches and earning myself a shot at Jennifer Yang’s Millennium Championship! Suddenly, Nessa Wall is back on my radar, she holds a briefcase that guarantees her a Millennium title shot and she was prepared to cash in, so whatever that’s her choice, G. I fought the match of my life against Yang and I was seconds away from becoming new Millennium Champion! I got distracted and I ain’t blaming that on Nessa…. Yes, she was the reason, but it was my mistake, I was the one that caused myself to become irritated by her.

Blackwell pauses, taking a second to contemplate his next words.

D’Angelo Blackwell
So, I knew after that match that I needed to adjust my attention, adjust my focus to Nessa Wall. I knew that she was an issue that I needed to deal with. I need to take back that loss I suffered, G. I will defeat her and place her in the rearview mirror. She has been a small tick, following me around and it’s time I deal with it. I don’t hold much respect for her, mainly because of how she defeated me last time, It was cheap, and I was disappointed, not mad, just disappointed. I plan to keep my eyes wide open, and I will ensure she doesn’t pull some bullshit again.

Blackwell smirks, followed by jumping off the production box and heading away from the camera.

---

Kace Matthews VS Melissa Reeves

Melissa gets to her feet, brushing herself off as the crowd cheers. She frowns, but helps Kace to his feet, shaking his hand. He shrugs, saying something to Melissa, until the familiar tune of “Brains” comes through once again. Melissa and Matthews look up the ramp as, once again, Chuck Matthews emerges with Ella Cross. The two applaud the match, and the fans cheer along with them as Chuck is handed a microphone.

Chuck Matthews
Well done, both of you. Kace… good match. We’re happy to have you back.

His tone is not ingenuine. Kace nods, looking disappointed at his performance nonetheless.

Chuck Matthews
As I mentioned a few days back, this match was not going to be without implications. As I said earlier tonight, every match means something. For the two of you-

A crewman races from the back, halting Chuck’s speech. He looks annoyed, and it’s immediately evident that the employee is not supposed to be out here. The staff and Chuck have a hushed conversation, Chuck’s hand over the microphone to prevent it picking up any stray sounds. Chuck suddenly looks concerned as the crew member speaks, and Ella covers her mouth with her hand. Chuck hands her the microphone, and as his hand uncovers it, the mic barely picks up his concerned voice.

Chuck Matthews
Take care of this.

He races off backstage with the crew as Ella shakily takes the microphone. She clears her throat, trying to compose herself from the initial surprise.

Ella Cross
In two weeks, Millennium will-... Millennium will be celebrating one year. At that event, Melissa Reeves, as a prize for your victory here tonight, you have earned an opportunity. At the year one show, you will serve as the first challenger to whoever leaves tonight as Millennium Champion.

She pauses, as if to say something else, but shakes her head, hurrying off after Chuck. Melissa seems surprised at this news, but nods. She would be keeping a careful eye on the events later tonight.

---

Chuck Matthews races backstage, following the crew member to a scene of wreckage backstage.

Chuck Matthews
What happened here?

Medic
We’re still looking into it.

Chuck pushes past a couple backstage crew, to a production crate which has been toppled over, spilling lighting and sound equipment across the floor. In the middle of it all, surrounded by the medics and staff, sits Nessa Wall. She’s non-responsive, and the medical staff moves around hurriedly. Dark red marks around her neck and wrists show where audio cords had dug into her skin, the aftermath of a brutal attack. Chuck kneels next to her, whispering to her, but getting no response. He takes a deep breath, gripping her hand in a rare gesture of affection and concern. They’re interrupted by the appearance of D’Angelo Blackwell, who looks genuinely shocked at the scene. Chuck stands slowly, narrowing his eyes at D’Lo. The camera tries to pick up their words, but Chuck speaks in a low voice, undetected by the microphones.

He appears to be questioning D’Angelo, based on the latter’s expression and instinctive raising his hands in surrender. Chuck eyes him for a moment, reading him. Finally, he seems satisfied with the response, and gives Blackwell an apologetic nod. The cameras are finally able to get close enough to pick up on their words.

Chuck Matthews
When she comes to, I’ll have to talk to her… we’ll figure out who’s responsible. I’m sorry, I don’t have a replacement opponent for you.

D’Lo looks disappointed, but shrugs. He walks off, his battle with Nessa having to wait for another time. Chuck returns his attention to Wall. As Ella approaches, she rests a hand gently on his shoulder, trying to calm down the Millennium owner. The show cuts elsewhere.

---

The scene opens to the inside of a locker room where Jennifer Yang and her fiance/manager Ho Wei Shen are. They look to be in deep conversation, most likely discussing the main event later tonight where Jennifer will be competing with four others in the biggest match of her career yet. Jennifer is taping her hands with a focused expression on her face while listening to Wei Shen who’s doing most of the talking. Every time Jennifer says her piece, Wei Shen would firmly rebut and she would back down and simply nod.

The camera doesn’t catch everything that’s being said except Wei Shen.

Ho Wei Shen
...matches are getting bigger and bigger… more aggressive opponents… more hungry... this is good for you… forces you… be better… this is how you learn… can’t expect the easy stuff… title you carry… not make you champion… push yourself… push your limits... keep pushing… if you don’t… I will make sure… you need experience… steel cage scramble today… can do anything tomorrow…

Jennifer grows increasingly concerned throughout the lecture, but doesn’t say much. Instead, she just bows her head down and nods on occasion while Wei Shen talks—until this.

Ho Wei Shen
...won’t keep asking van Beek and her security team to spare you every time… you’re on your own… time to learn...

She looks up, her brows deeply furrowed together. The scars on her face still visible from the time she was attacked in the ring by Gray Malone and Jason Hawk.

Jennifer Yang
...what?

Ho Wei Shen
...if you can… Malone and Hawk… mostly healed… so now you can… her entire army....

She stares at him in disbelief, trying to process the coldness of his words and his great lack of concern for her safety here. She asks if this is a test, but he denies it. He tries to further justify that it’s not that he doesn’t care for her well-being, in fact, he merely wants to toughen her up this way. She protests, but he refuses to listen and dismisses it as fears. He tells her in a rather commanding tone that she needs this and that it will be good for her if she wants to continue being successful.

It’s at this point that he looks up directly at the eavesdropping camera, finally noticing it. With stern eyes, he marches over to the door and slams it shut to get privacy.

---

The steel cage lowers over the ring, and Rumchata Ayano explains the rules of the match. The five competitors will start on the outside of the ring and fight to climb up over the cage to get inside. Once there, it becomes a one-fall match within the confines of the cage.

Jennifer Yang (c) VS Grace van Beek VS Gray Malone VS
Jason Hawk VS Christopher Kane