Millennium CI

The scene opens up on an aerial view of The Academy apparently early in the morning giving the fact that there are no lights turned on inside the building or any cars in the parking lot when the camera suddenly switches to a ground camera zoomed in at the entrance where Joey Leclair is seen standing at the bottom of the steps when the camera zooms into his face.

Joey Leclair :
In another hour this building will be filled with some of the greatest wrestlers to ever lace up the sport, as well as classroom full of motivated children who are all excited to learn from some of the best in the business as they study, and train to become future wrestlers, and The Academy has already had major success as one of its former students is now the Cloud Gate Champion which is the most prestigious title on the Millennium Roster in Millennium Wrestling Enterprises, and so I want to applaud The Academy in its success I am sure all of the staff, and children are extra motivated and proud of Faizah Marshall, but in reality? They failed Faizah.

Joey gets a smirk across his face as he paces back and forth on the steps of The Academy.

Joey Leclair :
They failed her, because they failed to teach her three valuable lessons.

Joey stops facing the camera, holds his right fist into the air, and extends his index finger.

Joey Leclair :
Lesson one is that you never let someone else win your battles for you, because while it may be fun at first? It will eventually eat you alive, the gossip about how you cannot succeed without help or cheating, and will leave you feeling empty, and plus in this business you cannot trust anyone, and so what happens when TD gets tired of winning your matches for you while you get all the glory? What happens if TD decides that it’s time to go into business for himself, because he tired of being your lackey, and becomes your mortal enemy? Yes that does happen very often in our business, and so I ask are you prepared for that?

Joey extends his middle finger up now having two fingers in the air.

Joey Leclair :
Lesson two is that you do not piss of an entire roster, and now this one is confusing, because you're probably thinking that you have not pissed off an entire roster, and to that I say don’t be stupid, because I am about to bring that to reality right now with this wake up call! Tiff Rollins you was one Cloud Gate Champion, and the longest Reigning one at that, and I guarantee that you had to fight for you chance to become Cloud Gate Champion didn’t you? So it should very well piss you of that a rookie with barely even two years experience steps in, and becomes Cloud Gate Champion, and not even because of her own skills, but because of her hired muscle TD, and meanwhile you have been fighting tooth, and nail to even be featured on a card since your return from hiatus! What a slap in the face, and not just TIff, but Melissa Reeve’s she has been in my opinion one of the best wrestlers in Millennium, and a former MWE World Champion, and she has been fighting for her spot on the show, but meanwhile here we are handing out rookie’s opportunities left, and right, and it pisses me off that anyone can come out of wrestling school, and sign a contract, and because they are fresh, and new? Management is like let’s feature them any time we can because they are fresh. What happened to paying your due’s and busting your ass to earn an opportunity in this business? I’m, guessing those days are gone, and that should piss off everyone in the business who has been wrestling for five years or longer, because your basically saying they busted their asses, and pour their blood for this business for nothing, so yea you better believe you have no friends in the locker room Faizah, because you don’t, and now for the most valuable lesson they failed to teach you.

Joey raises his ring finger up beside his other two fingers, and gets a serious look on his face as his jaws tremble in anger.

Joey Leclair :
Lesson Three, you do not piss off the devil, and in Millennium? I am that devil! The same devil that got suspended for putting my hands on a backstage interview, the same devil who sent Helena Noir to the hospital, the same devil who ended Kenzie Garret’s reign as Chicago Way Champion when she had literally just one it, the same devil who went on the become one half of the longest reigning Chicago Way Champion in history. I am very much an asshole Faizah who does not care for your well being or anyone else’s in this business, and so if you really consider yourself the best at everything? Then please prove it, and defend it against me one one one, because we both know that even with you, and Summer Collins teaming up against me? I still overwhelmed, and dominated you both, and it was only by the saving grace of TD that you are now the Cloud Gate Champion, and so I will even allow you to have TD at your side if you accept my challenge, because it won’t be the first time I have had an outside distraction in my career, because I have been in this business for ten plus years, and all my life I have had to fight tooth, and nail, and Faizah I have seen a million others just like you claiming to be god’s gift, the only difference today from ten years ago is that when I started? Every single person started from the bottom, and had to fight, and claw their way to the top. And so I leave you with this warning Faizah. This is the last you see of the Prodigy, because next time we meet? You get Pale Blood Joey Leclair, and everyone knows just how sick I am when I am in that mindset, and everyone knows Pale Blood is undefeated, and so when we meet again? The ring canvas will be filled with your blood, and the steel outside the ring will be filled with TD’s, and then everyone in The Academy will have the fear of god put in them, and everyone in the locker room will know to never piss off Joey Leclair. Fahziah this is no longer A game of who’s better, but instead a game of survival.

Joey walks off the steps, and walks towards his car as the segment comes to an end.

The referee is finally able to pull van der Hoek away from Gallagher, forcefully breaking the hold which quickly earns a shove from The Leader of the Band of Nine. The referee holds his hands up defensively, suggesting that he was simply stopping more damage being done to Betsy. Without breaking eye contact with the referee, Nine presses a boot down onto the back of Gallagher’s knee, stopping her in her tracks before dragging her into the center of the ring. Nine waves a hand into the crowd before quickly locking in The Seventh Nightmare, her armtrap crossface once again! The referee hesitates as he moves towards Nine, before turning around and waving down other referees, agents and security to stop the assault. They begin to pour through the entrance way but are suddenly cut off by a mass of cultists, seemingly out of nowhere as they begin to surround the ring, guarding Nine. Through the mob emerges a familiar face to Millennium fans in the form of E.M.P, who casually saunters to the mouth of the entrance ramp, her fingers hooked into the bulletproof style vest she’s wearing. As this is going on a cultist has entered the ring, kneeling beside their leader, holding a microphone to her lips as she still has the hold locked in on Betsy, who has now seemingly fallen unconscious.

NINE VAN DER HOEK:
I do not want any of you to forget that I gave all of these people a choice. I was clear. Join me, or suffer the consequences. These are the consequences.

Nine releases the hold, throwing Betsy’s head down against the canvas with utter contempt as she takes the microphone, ordering the cultist to leave the ring. She raises a boot, stepping on the side of Betsy’s face.

NINE VAN DER HOEK:
Nobody in that locker room chose to follow me. To join us. That’s fine…but this pathetic little individual right here, beneath my foot? She’s the first of many. We’re coming for each and every one of you until there’s nothing left. Not until I hold all the gold there is to hold. I’m coming to take everything you refused to give up to follow me, and when I’m done, after the begging, the pleading - when you finally wake up, when you finally see, you’ll thank me. You’ll revere me as all of my people revere me.

The Leader pushes Betsy’s face with the ball of her foot, shaking her head in disgust.

NINE VAN DER HOEK:
The warnings are over. No one is safe. Try to stop us if you dare.

With that, Nine drops the microphone, ignoring the loud, negative reaction she’s incited from the fans. She exits the ring, the mass of her cultists parting like the red sea for her as she reaches the ramp. Nine speaks to E.M.P for a short moment, thanking her for standing guard as she said what she had to say. Nine van der Hoek then begins to walk, the symmetry of the referees, agents, security and now medical workers parting for her not lost on us as she leads her many faithful down the side of the entrance ramp as the medics quickly reach Betsy to check her over.

The scene opens up in the area backstage where the interviewers usually conduct interviews. On this day there is no MWE sanctioned interviewer insight. The camera is graced with Clyde Eldon is to the left of the brand new MWE Cloud Gate Champion, Faizah Marshall. TD Batterson towers over both as he stands behind them. One noticeable thing stands out, Clyde is down on one knee holding the Cloud Gate Championship so the audience can see the faceplate. Faizah looks down at Clyde, smiling. All TD has to offer is a neutral expression.

Clyde Eldon:
Hello ladies and gentleman, I am here with your new Cloud Gate Champion! The one who won this title by beating Joey Leclair. The amazing, the gorgeous, the talented, the beautiful, the amazing, Faizah Marshall!

With a very big smile across his face, Clyde eagerly sings the praises of Faizah while displaying her belt for the crowd to see.

Faizah Marshall:
Before I address my best friend’s sister, it would be rude of me if I didn’t address the words of The Pro... sorry... Pale Blood Joey LeClair.

Faizah shrugs her shoulders.

Faizah Marshall:
I’ll admit, I was wrong. Wrong in believing you wouldn’t be bothered at all with me becoming the Cloud Gate Champion. I assumed I was doing you a favor. For all the hard work, blood sweat and tears you put into the sport you should be a World Champion in MWE by now. Isn’t that what you really want, the World Championship? Not my fault that hasn’t happened. Losing to me coulda been one more setback on the pile of many you had. Now you’re on this anti rookie campaign? Projecting your failures? How low.

Faizah’s face scrunches up.

Faizah Marshall:
I am not Olly who slid in the backdoor as Karen’s mystery partner to become tag team champion on his first day.

I am not Faith, who weasled her way to cheat Lowri out of the Cloud Gate Championship.

My road was a lot longer. Nine months of hardship, Joey. I failed to beat Lowri for the Cloud Gate. Lucie robbed me of a chance to knock the Faith monkey off my back. I failed to win a contenders match a couple months previous to that. And the MENTV tournament, failed to win that one night tournament as well. I haven’t had it easy Joey. I had to overcome multiple setbacks to become champion. While I’m at it, for all your experience, you’re forgetting one simple detail. Our match was a triple threat match, no DQ in a triple threat Joey. I didn’t break any rules. As a former Chicago Way Champion you should get that. Would you be pissed off if someone got involved in a match with no rules? Doesn’t make sense. Hey. Stay angry.

Faizah rolls her eyes.

Faizah Marshall:
Consider your challenge denied. Not because I’m afraid of you. Not because I lack faith that I can beat you without TD. You lost. Get in the back of the line like I did. Pay your dues. Aren’t you veterans a fan of that? Win a couple matches. Prove yourself. I don’t owe you a goddamn thing. Go ahead. Toss your threats. You come anywhere near me, TD will snap you in half.

Faizah snaps her fingers. We can see TD Batterson nod his head.

Faizah Marshall:
But enough about you. Bree Smith. Congratulations. How does it feel completing the journey to finally become a singles champion? Your road was filled with a dozen setbacks, like mine. You didn’t complain. You kept working. Overcame all of Matt Stone’s games. Now you are known for something more than being obsessed with Oreos and all the Bree-esque puns you make. Bravo on your one shining moment. Hate to break it to you, tonight is the official coronation of Planet Faizah. Best believe I am going to enjoy the fruits of my labor. Damn right I am gonna live it up, I mean, I was a star on Ghost Fighter Boone after all. I am the hottest woman in the history of mankind, then-now-forever. I am an inspiration for little girls all around the world. How could you not want to exist on the same planet as yours truly? Doesn’t make a lick of sense. It’s unfortunate I am gonna have to embarrass the best sister of my bestie. Look at it this way, you becoming the Lockdown Champion was an over achievement in a way. Your peak has been reached. No one has seen mine. Time to level up, Bree. When this match is over, there will be no doubt who the real star is around here.

Faizah takes her Cloud Gate Championship from Clyde. She looks over her shoulder at TD Batterson. Both nod at each other. Faiz, TD and Clyde walk off as the scene fades to black.

The show switches to somewhere backstage at Pechanga Arena, with a camera finding Lowri Moss, the sight of who draws a loud cheer from the audience. With her match not being until the main event of tonight’s show, Lowri is not yet dressed in her ring attire, instead she is wearing a black cami tank top and a brown suede midi skirt, together with a pair of white Dr. Martens boots. She starts by giving her usual greeting.

Lowri Moss:
What’s occurring, San Diego?

That elicits the customary cheap pop from the fans present inside the venue.

Lowri Moss:
What has it been… two, three weeks since my last match? When was Centum - last week? Two weeks ago?

Lowri frowns, going over the dates of the past two episodes of Millennium in her head, trying to get them right.

Lowri Moss:
Yeah, two weeks ago… so it has been three weeks since my last match, when I defeated Valentine, and tonight I return to action in the main event, against Seth Iser, a match that BROOKFORD speculated earlier in the week could have world title implications– and not just here in MWE.

A smile crosses Lowri’s face, as she continues.

Lowri Moss:
I try to avoid talking about goings-on in other promotions if I can help it– I’ve never shown up in one promotion with a title that I won somewhere else– but I think it would be difficult for anyone to talk about me and Seth without mentioning Frontier Grappling Arts, a promotion that we’ve both been part of for several years. When I made my debut there, I had only been wrestling for six months, and was a virtual unknown outside the UK… not that I was exactly a household name in the UK either; now I’m nine days away from the five-year anniversary of my FGA debut, having made such a name for myself that I have people pulling out all the stops to try to get me to join their promotion, like Elsa McCarthy and Vincent Moretti did at the beginning of last year.

Back when Millennium and Riot were still two distinct shows, before the brand split was dissolved.

Lowri Moss:
Seth’s FGA debut came around eight months after mine, against another Welsh wrestler in Ash Fi, who, believe it or not, once got referred to as my stunt double, and who coincidentally was also BROOKFORD’s opponent when he made his debut in FGA, a week after Seth.

A coincidence that Lowri only discovered within the past couple of days.

Lowri Moss:
Unlike me, Seth already had quite the reputation by the time that he debuted in FGA; he had been wrestling for the better part of fifteen years and was a multi time world champion, as well as having numerous other accolades to his name– in short, he was everything that I wasn’t. And that, the two of us being on different levels of the FGA hierarchy, is probably why it wasn’t until two years ago that we met in the ring for the first time, in the semifinals of a tournament.

The Wildcard Lottery tournament, the winner of which would receive a world title shot and a cheque for $100,000.

Lowri Moss:
Ahead of that match, Seth stated that I had never faced anybody like him before in my career– and he was right, I hadn’t. He turned out to be one opponent too far for me in that particular tournament, whereas he would go on to win the thing, and subsequently the FGA World title, just months before his success in the Battle For The Briefcase tournament that would result in him also becoming the World Champion here in MWE.

She lets out a small sigh.

Lowri Moss:
While this is our first one-on-one match since that one from two years ago, Seth and I have actually crossed paths twice in between; last July we were on opposing sides in a six man tag match, with me getting the win for my team– although Seth wasn’t the one that I pinned. Then a week later, we were both in the Gold Rush Rumble, with Seth having said beforehand that anyone who wanted to win the Rumble would have to go through him, and that he didn’t think there was anyone who could do that. Well, guess who did just that.

No prizes for guessing that it was Lowri… although admittedly she did have a little help from one of the other participants in the Rumble.

Lowri Moss:
I know Seth wants to be a World Champion again, and a win for him over me tonight would take him a step closer to that, both in MWE and in FGA. And I know that he’s confident of repeating the result of our match from two years ago… but–

There is the briefest of pauses, before Lowri continues.

Lowri Moss:
Things have changed now. The gap that existed between the two of us last time? It’s gone - I haven’t just narrowed it, I’ve eliminated it; I'm on a different level now to the one that I was at two years ago. There was at least one occasion in that previous match where I almost had Seth, in his own words, “dead to rights,” only for him to find a way to hang in there - if I get him in a similar position later tonight, this time I won’t give him the opportunity to ride it out.

Another momentary pause follows, as Lowri takes a breath.

Lowri Moss:
And then in three days’ time, we’ll do it once more, because as Seth and I found out earlier today, not only are we going to be main eventing tonight’s episode of Millennium, we’ll also be main eventing this Saturday’s show in FGA.

You wait for something for two years, and then you get it twice in the space of four days… not that Elsa would have had any way of knowing that FGA were planning on booking the exact same match.

Lowri Moss:
One match at a time though, one win at a time… starting with tonight.

Lowri then stares confidently at the camera, before it cuts away.

As Bree walks up the steps, her theme song starts to fade out. The official knows better than to open the ring ropes for her but does get her the microphone she requested. She stands there dressed to compete in her red one piece Breebarian styled torso piece with elbow pads, knee pads, strong boots laced up tight.

Bree Smith:
So I just wanted to say ahead of the champion vs champion match against Faiz. 3….2.

Bree says holding up the fingers to represent the scoreboard and then looks down at her Lockdown Championship with her name on it.

Bree Smith:
Despite Matt 'Squirrely' Stone, despite Nicole 'Handsy' Rossi trying to get the assist, when Millennium went 100, I went 120 and when the Breebarian does good things happen to Breeliant people, and bad things happen to whoever is in my way.

Some of the audience give Bree a little Iron Breebarian chant for that title win, bringing a big smile to Bree who gives a 'You Guys!' reaction, then proceeds onwards.

Bree Smith:
Now, right here in Lockdown City - Lovely San Diego.

Bree pauses while the crowd give a big cheer and start a Lockdown City chant.

Bree Smith:
I've got Faiz who's gonna be standing right there and 'bree' in ma' way. Now she is Millie's bud from the Academy, but I'm dedicated to making this title an even bigger prize. So whether it's the Cloud Gate champion, the Riot Champion, heck if we have to face off against Matt Stone again, I'm game to throw some dudes around!

Bree nods to the crowd cheering to see just that, with Bree showing off the arms that would be responsible for that. The crowd's energy pumps Bree up clearly as she gets even louder on the microphone.

Bree Smith:
I'm ready, Faiz! I know you're ready. This whole Lockdown city crowd is ready to see gold vs gold! So come on down and let's freaking do this!

Bree exclaims loudly before she rests her title on her corner top turnbuckle pad. Bouncing on her feet one at a time, stretching her neck out waiting for Faiz to come on down.

We cut backstage where we find “The British Bombshell” Glory Braddock standing back near the ready area. Braddock is dressed in denim jeans, black boots, and a black MWE t-shirt. Her long blonde hair cascades freely to past the shoulders. She has a confident grin on her face as she stares into the camera.

Glory Braddock:
Separate myself. That’s what you said you recommended, that’s what you think I should do, right Brookford?

She chuckles lightly.

Glory Braddock:
That’s kind of difficult to do when I’m left off the card. But I’m not complaining. You know it, I know it, and everyone listening knows that I will face anyone and everyone who is faced before me. I do not back down from any challenge set before me. Line them up, I will choke them out or make them tap out. But I get the feeling you already know that, don’t you, Brookford? You know my reputation, just like I know yours. I have spent the last fourteen years of my professional career separating myself from anyone and everyone to ever share a ring with me. The challenge is there, Brookford. Fight me…put the title on the line and I will take it from you. Or if you want to delay the inevitable, I’ll fight you non-title, beat you, and then fight you again with the title on the line and take it. Hell, I will even let you name the type of match. Submissions? I quit? Pure Rules? It doesn’t matter. I will fight you and beat you in any match you want.

She shrugs her shoulders.

Glory Braddock:
Or we can delay this as long as you want, we can play this game as long as necessary. Like I said, I have spent the last fourteen years of my professional career separating myself from every other professional wrestler, proving myself to be among the very best in the world to do this job. If I have to continue to prove myself in order to force your hand and get you in the ring then I will do it. If you really want to prove yourself as among the very best in the world, then accept my challenge and face Glory Braddock, the REAL Glory Braddock, not some fake, not some egomaniac fraud, but the woman who has proven for fourteen years to be the best in the world. Fight me, Brookford. Try and beat me. But you will fail, you can bet on that.

She smirks.

Glory Braddock:
In the meantime, until I hear an answer from you, until I get a match against you, I will get back to doing what I do best and that is to beat anyone this company sets in front of me. I have been Riot Champion, I have been the MENTV Champion, and now I want the MWE World Championship and I swear to god that I will not stop until I claim it as mine.

Previously recorded, Billy Danielson is sitting in the living room of his new Los Angeles Apartment. He's decked out in all Coulter-Wear, getting a modeling paycheck for this promo, because he's always finding new ways to make money. Despite this being a Millenium promo, Billy looks like he really couldn't care less about his coming match against the upstart, Gareth Prichard Jr. Danielson smirks at the camera.

Billy Danielson:
I've been pestered by a lot of people. Especially those who want to attach themselves to my name so they can get themselves over as these "better than they really are" talents that promoters might want.

He shakes his head.

Billy Danielson:
I could name names, but I think we can all think of at least one person who has clearly tried to latch themselves onto my name in the past. It's sad and desperate, how they run around begging and screaming for attention. Sadly, it's very common in this industry. Honestly, when incidents like this happen, they just make me feel like I'm sharing an awkward moment with one of those fans that don't understand boundaries.

Billy cringes from the thought of those fanatic-based pariahs who take basically prom photos with their favorite wrestlers, or the gross, gropey groupies who cop feels of those same wrestlers.

Billy Danielson:
Neal, that’s where you come in. You are a cringe-inducing fan who just can’t realize when their presence is no longer wanted. The lack of self-awareness and utter embarrassment that oozes from you is almost unbearable, but it’s the truth. You expect all of us to believe that you don’t want titles and you only want to take hits off of a “my favorite wrestlers” list you have in your front pocket, but then why even wrestle? Why even join this industry? Why not join a bum-fights group and get your kicks there?

Scoffing, Billy shakes his head again. This time, it’s more so in disappointment in GPJ rather than the thought of the worst type of fan.

Billy Danielson:
It’s because you’re desperate for attention, but you simply lack the ability to get it on your own. So you pretend that you don’t want big success in this industry, hoping someone will care, but here’s the thing, Neal. As much as you want my attention and Millennium’s, you’re not worth it. I know, just like Meg knows, just like Joey LeClair knows, you are an afterthought to everything else that is going on in this company. And I absolutely speak for this entire company, because I am THE FRANCHISE of Millenium Inc.

Danielson leans back in the chair and crosses his legs, showing how comfortable he is with insulting Gareth.

Billy Danielson:
At this point, I’d say I am very close to the place you were a few weeks ago. I might show up, just so I don’t get fined, but there’s really no need for me to wrestle you. You’re beneath me. You are a King of Failure, and I am the Poster Boy for Success. Beating you in a match would never and will never do anything to further my career, and that’s why I’m contemplating just leaving you in a heap somewhere and walking right out of the ring.

He thinks back to other times where he has walked out of “lesser matches”, and it really makes him laugh and beam because he doesn’t see Gareth as an equal or even a challenge.

Billy Danielson:
Because at the end of the day, Neal Durden wasn’t good enough. New Edgy Neal Durden isn’t going to be good enough. You will never be good enough to get my attention beyond this moment here. You don’t compare, therefore you don’t excite, and therefore I don’t care. I almost regret accepting this “match” (if you can even call it that), because the longer I have to put up with you, is the longer I have to wait before I get my first MWE championship reign….

More disappointed head shakes from the GOAT, but then suddenly an idea goes off in his head.

Billy Danielson:
But then again…

He pauses and begins to talk out of the side of his mouth as a smirk finds its way onto Billy’s face.

Billy Danielson:
Maybe I’ll just use Millenium 1-0-1 as an opportunity to teach you the fundamentals of being that person you so desperately crave to be and chase and emulate. Maybe I will teach you what it’s like to actually, instead of being just another wrestler without a cause, because then MAYBE … JUST maybe… you’ll be worth talking about again after this…

One last arrogant smile by Billy Danielson as he looks at the camera/

Billy Danielson:
But then again… Probably not!

With that the scene fades to black, ending on Danielson’s horribly arrogant smirk.

Somewhere backstage, Gareth Prichard Jr sits on top of a production crate. A scene that reminisces of what “Neal Durden” used to do. He’s not wearing anything aside from his wrestling gear: black boots, black knee pads over a pair of “dress” pants, black wrist tape, and a “dress” shirt with the sleeves rolled up ¾ of the way. He’s smiling – not smirking, as has been the norm lately –, his eyes closed by the grin on his face. He takes a deep breath and begins to talk.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
I’m going to tell you how this is going to go – before it happens… so consider this your spoiler warning…

Prichard lets a couple of seconds go by, looking at an imaginary clock on his left wrist. He then looks directly at the camera and continues.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
Billy and I are going to be having the match of the night because there’s no way in hell we could not; just by the talent being pitted against each other and the styles, we possess… until Megan Monroe – not to be confused with the other Megan in the roster… I’m talking about the GOOD Megan, not the chump – interferes in the match, attacking me in the process. Maybe it leads to a DQ if she’s just hell-bent on just ending my life – as she said – or Billy capitalizes as the opportunist he is, getting his payback from my last time out.

Gareth gives a *non-commital* shrug as he continues.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
That being said, I need to say something about my match and my boy, Billy Danielson… right? That’s why they pay me, to hype up matches and wrestle. So that’s what I’m going to do.

A deep breath, followed by a smirk are the preludes to whatever the hell Gareth is about to say.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
See, Billy. You’re mistaking Ego with Apathy. If you knew what came before if you took the time to hear what others have to say in the show you’re in. If you at least gave a bit of your time in order to show you care about more than yourself – at least for the benefit of a brand you’re in and thus, making more money for yourself – you’d knew my EGO went flying about a year or two ago. Right around the time, I won the HKW: Underground Underworld title. If you cared to, at least, do your research on people you’d know what happened and I wouldn’t have to repeat the same damn story over and over like I’m Dora the Explorer…

Prichard shrugs as he continues.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
But you don’t care about anything other than yourself and Twitter… that’s what’s important… right? Liking pictures of pretty ladies, looking like a cocaine drug dealer in 70’s Miami… Having ‘ships and all that jazz… that’s what’s important. Not building a brand, not building your name, not making the best of the opportunity you have in front of you. Not giving the show you’re being paid to deliver… No… what’s important is that one-liner on social media; that soundbite as Seth Iser so eloquently put it the other day… that’s what’s important.

He scoffs, taking a break before continuing his diatribe.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
You will argue I have an ego… but at least I know what you’re saying to the world. At least I’ve followed what’ve you’ve done and where you’re at recently. At least I know what I’m facing… do you? Or just like the others, you think I’m just a little runt that needs to be grounded? A boy that doesn’t know when to quit? Someone so “stupid” that lets go of “opportunities”... opportunities that could be taken away from me in the vast sea of things… because someone got up from the wrong side of the bed one day and decided, “you know what, let’s make a NEW TITLE BELT… that goes above the one that little runt won”. “Let’s shit on his parade because nobody cares about him… look, he’s the flavor of the month… and it’s not the guy with the belt… is the guy we gifted this other shiny new belt.”

Gareth hangs his head as he speaks.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
That’s the difference, Billy. While you have an EGO… and want to have “ALL THE BELTS”... I know what they’re really worth… and they’re not worth my time anymore. On the other hand, pissing you off… pissing Megan off… that’s much more interesting. That’s much more appealing to me. Because if I can take you off of your game so easily; if I can rile you up with just doing whatever… imagine what sort of chaos can happen once we’re in that ring. Imagine the sort of show we’re going to deliver, imagine the number of tickets we’re going to be selling; just by the mere fact, I acted.

Prichard chuckles as he finishes up.

Gareth Prichard Jr.
And that’s the thing… while you waited… and waited… and waited… I acted. You and I aren’t the same… see you in the ring.

"Omnishred" hits the speakers as the arena goes dark and strobe lights pulse through the arena.The crowd erupts into raucous boos as the lights dim around the entrance ramp, smoke begins to rise. After the intro kicks in, the lights start flashing as the smoke gets thicker, after a few moments we see Andrew Raynes appear through the smoke, his head shifted towards the ring, focused, a smirk, the MWE Chicago Way Championship around his waist. He stands there for a few seconds still looking around, taunting and feeling himself as the most hated. He pats the title belt a couple times before he extends his arms and raises them as pyro explodes around the entrance before he starts walking down. He makes his way to the ring, sliding into the ring under the ropes. He stands up as he soaks in the jeers from the crowd. He walks over to the corner and grabs himself a mic and makes his way back towards the middle of the ring. 

Andrew Raynes:
At Centum, I showed everyone why I'm still the reigning and defending Chicago Way champion and why I'm one of the most hated in this business.

It pisses people off when I'm proven to be right, when you truly fuck around and find out. What sets me apart from others is that I do what comes naturally, I talk shit and back it up even if it ends up getting me popped in the face while I'm taking a walk in the park. I outgrew the need to cry over Ls or title losses because I'm the type who learns from his mistakes and only gets better.

I warned Valentine and Jordan what it would take to take this title away from me. I continue to bring worth and relevance to this championship and I will stop at nothing in order to defend it. You needed to finish the job in order to accomplish that because leaving me the slightest bit alive was going to have dire consequences, and I was right. So, instead of taking your loss like an adult, you decided to completely act like the sore loser you are because you couldn't get the job done. You couldn't help but blame everyone else because we saw who you truly were when it mattered most; then yours and Evie's pathetic attempts at trashing me and my philosophy in this business because you couldn't stand the fact that I'm every bit as dangerous as I said I was. It only served to make yourselves look even dumber because quite frankly I couldn't give two shits for the opinions of ignorant fools who got humbled and couldn't handle it.

I don't blame you for being mad about losing. You came to learn what so many others have who thought they could simply steamroll me, you clung onto your little win against me from before and thought you could ride that to championship glory. Not only did you fail to accomplish that but you got served a lovely dose of karma by having Jordan get his measure of revenge by dick punching you and leaving you out in the cold holding your sack while I seized the moment to walk away still Chicago way champion.

I'm sure though that you'll have no problem finding some enhancement talent to have fed to you so you can feel like the big scary monster you think you are. You'll enjoy being the big fish in a small pond while I move on to bigger and better things and I know that pisses you off more than anything.

Andrew smirks and pats his title belt, feeling good about himself while the crowd doesn't jive with him. He walks around a little bit keeping his legs fresh.

Andrew Raynes:
As for what's next, it's pretty simple. I will continue to defend this belt against all comers who wanna step up and challenge the boss. I will continue to make this belt setting worth coming after because hate will make you wanna desperately try and take this away from me. That's how it generally works. I'm the type that brings out the worst in people because I'm simply someone who has become so comfortable in his own skin that I have no qualms in doing whatever I want and not fearing consequences.

I'm the rare type that doesn't have an issue doing what must be done. If you think you can keep up then come step to the plate and do something about it. If you can't keep up though, don't step up otherwise you're gonna get eaten alive and sent back into the pond where you belong because you'll be nothing but a fish out of water with me.

I'm not afraid to lose this, I will defend this belt with all the hate I possess. Having the natural ability to fuck you up without remorse is something I take great pride in. I will continue to show everyone why hate is the Chicago way until eventually hate shifts it way onto more important things and whether they will be ready or not, I'll be coming and there will be nothing you can do to stop it from happening.

Hate is coming and it's time to embrace it.

Andrew tosses the mic as "Omnishred" hits the speakers. He unclips the belt and shows it off as the crowd hates him for it. He taunts a little bit before he finally leaves the ring and makes his way up the ramp.

We are here in San Diego, California where despite having the night off in the ring we find Karen Eldon on her phone. She is walking through the backstage hallways wearing a satin mini dress. She is having a laugh with whomever is on the other line when she turns the corner to find herself staring at Ailyah and Annica Greene. Karen tries to make a quick U-Turn but the two approach her before she can make her escape. As they approach her she straightens up trying to appear menacing and like she meant to be there.

Karen Eldon:
Just the pair of losers I was looking for.

The twins share a sly look before Aliyah gives a wide eyed ‘innocent’ look at Karen, one hand going up to her chest as Annica circles a bit to the right of Karen.

Aliyah Greene:
Oh now hunny, we both know thassa lie. Come on now though, don’t have t’be like this, but we all know it is. Gotta ask ya one thing though.

A deliberate pause as Annica slides her hand into the large kangaroo pocket of her hoodie, an almost but not quite as fake innocent grin on her face.

Aliyah Greene:
Where’s Olly, hmm? Wonder how he doin’ right now. That him on the phone? Hope it is, hope it is, and not… who we saw earlier, no no.

Looking over her shoulder for an exit route while still trying to do her best acting job like she’s come to take them out herself.

Karen Eldon:
Who did you two see earlier?

Karen looks unsure what they could mean by that. Aliyah grins, taking a step or so towards Karen, but careful to move left, talking just a little louder to put more attention on herself, over Annica.

Aliyah Greene:
I mean, it coulda been Olly? He was uhm, about that size, about that look, though I can’t remember him eva runnin’ quite that fast before? Like daaaang, if he was that quick in the ring? Whew boy he’d be at the least a US Champ level, for real for real.

She nods before she lifts her empty hands and shrugs just a little, a far more sly look coming to her now.

Aliyah Greene:
He fell pretty hard though, man. Like took a tumble right down them steps. Guess they was wet or somethin’, never can be too careful.

Now understanding what they are getting at Karen, looks around now. Seeming to be realizing that Olly isn’t going to be coming to save her.

Karen Eldon:
You know…I just think it’s…Um….

Stumbling over her own words now as she backs up a bit, Annica gives her a fake punch that makes Karen turn and flee down the hall leaving one of her heels behind in the process.

Annica Greene:
Lookit her go, man! Who’d a thought she could run that fast neither? Hey… think I shoulda hit her?

Aliyah Greene:
Nah nah, got plenty of time for that. Let’s go see what’s up in catering.

The pair snicker as they turn and go the other way, leaving the question - where was Olly?

We cut backstage to a black and white video feed. The camera moves to the left and sitting there with his back turned to the camera is Julian Savell. A cackle can be heard as he rocks back and forth in his chair.

Julian Savell:
Tonight, a debt must be paid. Not just for the blood that was spilled from me… not just for what happened to my orbital bone… but for Faith!”

Julian slams his hand on the table in front of him and yells.

Julian Savell:
Lucie… You think you’ll just get away with it? You mock what you did. You mock ME! You mock my family, my family name! You said you’re dangerous. But I don’t believe you. I don’t believe you’re as dangerous as me. Especially when…”

He let out a crazed laugh as he grabbed an item to his right. He lifted it up and then pulled it up to his face. Standing up from his chair, Julian turned around and he was wearing a mask.

Julian Savell:
Especially when I’m pushed to the edge. To my BREAKING POINT!

He points at the camera as he tilts his head.

Julian Savell:
Keep acting nonchalant. Keep on acting like you’re invincible. Because after tonight? I’ll show the world how fucking frail you truly are. And we’ll all be laughing at you. The fool. The clown. The fucking jester.

He steps closer to the camera, his eyes glaring at it through the holes of the mask.

Julian Savell:
Some time ago, I used to call myself the God of Wrestling but now? Now I’m simply the God of destruction and you will bow down before me. You will grovel at me feet and beg for mercy. But you’ll receive none. Say your prayers to whatever gods you worship, because this one is going to end your fucking existence.

He begins to laugh again before the scene fades away.

We cut backstage where we find “The Archangel” Jessica Lasiewicz dressed to compete, not in her tag team “Fabulous” attire that resembles a cheerleading uniform. Instead The Archangel and second generation athlete is dressed in her traditional gear, mostly black and crimson red. Lasiewicz is also wearing a Duke Blue Devils t-shirt to represent her favorite basketball team and alma mater. She looks intensely focused on the task at hand, which will be a difficult task as she is set to face Melissa Reeves, a former MWE World Champion. Lasiewicz herself is a former champion in her own right and wants to get back to her championship glory. She is stretching in preparation for this match when her half-sister, “The Woman Scorned” Kimberly Williams approaches with the Dalek in tow. Williams taps her on the shoulder. Jessica spins around and smiles warmly.

Jessica Lasiewicz:
Hi, Kim…

Dalek:
GREETINGS! GREETINGS! GREETINGS! GREETINGS! GREETINGS! GREETINGS! GREETINGS! GREETINGS! GREETINGS! GREETINGS! GREETINGS! GREETINGS!

Kimberly kicks the Dalek to silence him. Jessica chuckles softly.

Jessica Lasiewicz:
Hi, Dalek.

Kimberly Williams:
Sorry about Rusty, he’s a little excited considering, you know…

Dalek:
GRACE VAN BEEK IS MY WIFE!

Kimberly rolls her eyes.

Jessica Lasiewicz:
He doesn’t stand a chance. You know that, right?

Kimberly Williams:
Don’t tell him that. He is very sensitive.

Jessica Lasiewicz:
Sensitive for a genocidal trash can. Anyway, what can I do for you, Kim? I thought you would be raising hell with Marie somewhere, kidnapping members of the roster, since that kind of thing has become your shtick lately.

Kimberly Williams:
Not here! I like the MWE folks! They appreciate my insanity!

Kimberly pats Jessica on the back.

Kimberly Williams:
I’m here to support you, Jess!

Jessica Lasiewicz:
I appreciate it, Kim. God knows I will need all the support I can get. Don’t get me wrong, I know I can win. I can beat anyone. It isn’t like I am just a tag team specialist. I am a former GCW World Champion. I can beat the best of the best.

Lasiewicz sighs and shakes her head.

Jessica Lasiewicz:
But lately I haven’t been able to win when it counts, at least not here in MWE. Reeves is very well known in MWE, she is a former world champion here. If I can beat her, I will put myself right back on the map. It may even help Summer too, it may help our case at getting a tag team championship match.

Kimberly Williams:
But Mellie Reevie just challenged for the world title against Brooky. If you DO beat her, that could put you in the conversation.

Jessica Lasiewicz:
The same conversation that Glory Braddock is having? Duke Andrews? Lowri Moss? Seth Iser? So many others? How do I possibly separate myself? Besides, I am committed to Summer, Fabulous, and the tag team championships.

Kimberly Williams:
You can do both.

Williams smirks.

Kimberly Williams:
Who says you can’t be both tag champion and a singles champion?

Dalek:
GRACE VAN BEEK IS MY WIFE!

Kimberly Williams:
See? Rusty will even put a good word in with the boss!

Lasiewicz chuckles.

Jessica Lasiewicz:
Thanks, Kim. But I think looking ahead is a bad idea, especially against Reeves. I need to focus on the here and now. That means focusing on beating Reeves. If I do that, then we’ll see where that leads me.

Jessica turns and starts to walk off but Kimberly steps in front of her to stop her.

Kimberly Williams:
Wait a sec…

Jessica Lasiewicz:
What is it, Kim?

Kimberly Williams:
I know Summer isn’t here tonight. She’s off buying out some small mom and pop business and killing jobs like all good capitalists do, right? You need support and I’m here! We were a tag team in SCW not too long ago, right? Vengeance! Vengeance can ride again, one night only, tonight!

Jessica Lasiewicz:
I appreciate it, Kim. I really do. But I need to do this on my own. I trust Reeves won’t be pulling any shenanigans or tricks. And if I…no, WHEN I beat her tonight, I do not want there to be any excuses.

The Woman Scorned nods her head.

Kimberly Williams:
Fair enough. I’ll stay back here. But I am watching your back.

Jessica Lasiewicz:
Thank you, Kim.

Kimberly Williams:
But at least let Dalek here accompany you to ringside

Jessica Lasiewicz:
For what purpose?

Kimberly Williams:
He can be an emotional support Dalek! Supporting you from ringside as you do battle with Reeves!

Kim pats Dalek on its chromed top.

Dalek:
I AM DALEK SUMMER! I AM ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS! ALL ENEMIES OF FABULOUS WILL BE EXTERMINATED! EXTERMINATED! EXTERMINATED!

Lasiewicz glares at the Dalek and then up at her half-sister’s bright smiling face. Jessica looks back down at the Dalek and sighs.

Jessica Lasiewicz:
Fine…come along…

Jessica turns and walks off with the Dalek following close behind.

Backstage in the Pechanga Arena in San Diego, California we find “The British Bombshell” Glory Braddock walking the halls. Only she is not alone; walking alongside her is a female, looking to be in her late teens or early twenties, with long brown hair. The newcomer appears to be awestruck being backstage here at this MWE Millennium event, but perhaps even more so to be with Glory Braddock.

Glory Braddock:
So what do you think of the place, Fiona?

Fiona:
Huh?

Glory Braddock:
MWE? Millennium? What do you think of it?

Fiona:
Oh…it’s nice, I suppose.

Braddock chuckles softly.

Glory Braddock:
Nice? I brought you here to introduce you to the inner workings of the wrestling business. I mean, that is what you wanted right? To become a wrestler? So here we are, at an actual wrestling event held by an actual promotion, the MWE, and it’s just nice?

Fiona shrugs her shoulders.

Fiona:
Sorry. I can honestly say this is a little more sane than the other place you took me.

Glory Braddock:
That’s sad. You actually think these people are sane.

Now Fiona chuckles softly.

Fiona:
I suppose you’re right. Every place will have its own quirks.

Glory Braddock:
That’s one way to put it. I was raised to believe that honest competition was important in this business. But not everyone believes in that. Some people believe that winning at all costs is the only important factor. Hell, I even found myself falling into that trap for awhile.

Braddock shakes her head.

Glory Braddock:
But no more, and I am going to make sure any student of mine…you included…understands and respects what this business is all about. Unfortunately that means sometimes having to deal with scum who don’t agree with our values, who want to run this business into their ground, use it for their own selfish agendas.

Fiona:
Right. But, uh, Glory…may I ask a question?

Glory Braddock:
Sure, mate. Ask anything.

Fiona:
I heard what you had to say, you still want another crack at the MWE World Championship. That guy, Brookford, he wants you to separate yourself from the pack, but how are you going to do that?

Braddock sighs and shrugs her shoulders.

Glory Braddock:
There’s very little I can do, especially when I’m not booked to compete. But you can trust me on this, I WILL separate myself, I will earn my title match if I have to fight through the entire roster three times over. And I am here tonight, whether I am competing tonight, and like I said, I value the tradition of this sport, the spirit of competition. If anything gets out of hand, I’ll be around. If Brookford wants to have a chat, I’ll be here.

Braddock walks off with Fiona following closely behind.

We then head over just outside of the locker room area as Robbie Hayden seems to have drawn this assignment one more time. There is a little less trepidation compared to the last time he did it but there’s still a hint of him being a little weary of it as he glances at the door that’s open just a crack.

Robbie Hayden:
Let’s just see if he’s willing to get a word in. No harm in asking, right?

After those words he opens the door and we see that one half of the main event in Seth Iser is finishing taping his left wrist in some final preparation for the main event. He’s dressed in his wrestling attire, a black and indigo variation with a skull design and the words ‘Memento Mori’ on his tights as well as his infamous bulky knee brace. He has finished that and disposes of the trash he made rather then litter in the locker room, ignoring Robbie for the moment.

Robbie Hayden:
Seth. A moment of your time?

A verbal request and Seth just raises his eyebrow for a moment as he considers it before he just gestures for Robbie to go ahead with his left hand without saying a word. The taller man has his arms crossed as we get a better view that he has his head bandaged up in what almost looks like a headband from the massive wound he took the previous week in that Cage of Atonement.

Robbie Hayden:
Tonight provides a very unique challenge…you’re about to go one on one with Lowri Moss tonight and then two nights later you get to fly over to Boston and do the same thing at the main event for another company. All this after nearly two years ago you two had your first clash and haven’t touched since. Without giving away your hand…what’s going through your mind?

Seth lets out a sigh after that question is let out for a moment while starting to slouch slightly on the locker as he’s contemplating exactly how to answer that for a few seconds.

Seth Iser:
Well, give me a little time here because there are too many factors at play to just give you a normal answer. You talk about the challenge of trying to defeat someone you already bested once? Especially someone of that kid’s skill. She’s already thought over repeatedly what happened in the first match and the opening she gave me for the Avalanche DDT. I already need to find a different way to beat her tonight…and no matter what the hell happens here in San Diego, Robbie…both of us have to come in with a little different strategy in Boston just two nights later.

As he’s explaining all of this, Robbie lets out a nod of his head and Seth’s just maintaining a calm expression.

Seth Iser:
Lowri even went through a similar situation a little over three years ago except it was back to back nights. We get a night to think about it as difference number one. And the second? We’re closing the show both nights. Whether you take the first flight out of there or you oversleep and have to haul ass on a later flight…you’re going to be beat to hell in Boston with little recuperation time and then have to go in there and fight the same person yet again knowing damn well whatever you do tonight can set up what could go down in Boston…but using the exact same strategy is folly.

Robbie blinks at Seth’s assertion and looks up at the tall veteran.

Robbie Hayden:
And that is because…?

Seth Iser:
You can’t beat Lowri Moss the same way twice. And you sure as hell can’t beat her the same way twice in a short span. She’s a better wrestler then when I defeated her two years ago.

Seth just says that in a matter of fact tone as Robbie just nods his head at the answer but he has a follow up question.

Robbie Hayden:
Is she going to go after your head?

Seth Iser:
Probably in one of the two matches but not both. She can’t do the same thing both times either, y’know. I’m one of the few old school wrestlers left with those little tricks…stuff that Olly kid for example wants to learn, is learning, but hasn’t mastered yet. That only comes with experience…

He just gives a slight nod before he just continues on to his point.

Seth Iser:
But she wants to put her way back into the World Title picture here. There’s no doubt about that. On top of pursuing some matches she wants to from a personal standpoint…that’s the end goal. It’s the end goal of just about everyone here at the end of the day…they want to be THE champion. And think about what I had done…both here and FGA. In a weird way…that’s chasing a standard I created for her and then try to surpass what I did. That’s what wrestlers do, after all…

Robbie taps his chin for a second but before he can answer, Seth continues.

Seth Iser:
I held both World Championships at the same time. It’s a rare feat when you consider the greats that come through both companies and all their accomplishments. You might not like how I did it both times but…I got the job done. Lowri wants to join me on that list and it isn’t going to be easy with people breathing down her neck while she’s Undisputed Champion. So this is a perfect proving ground for her…on both fronts. But it’s also one hell of a proving ground for this old man…and it’s exactly what I’d want when I want to fight my way back into contention.

There’s a cold, steely look on the face of the veteran that would be borderline intimidating for most people to deal with. He’s uncrossed his arms and is standing straight, a bit less relaxed than just moments earlier.

Seth Iser:
This is exactly the kind of challenge that someone who has earned the name as the Greatest Mind in all of Professional Wrestling would want. This also a throwback to the old territory days…back before I was even a fan even…where you had to face someone every night in different towns. Hell…I got a taste of that in my first ever tour of Japan on that tour bus working some of the same people every night where we bludgeoned each other. This ain’t foriegn ground to either of us. But Lowri knows what we both have to do these two nights. And she’s going to feel these two matches several weeks after the fact and she’s already accepted this as fact. She’s great. She still has her best years ahead of her even.

The steely look morphs into a glare now as he’s starting to grow intense. The fire is truly starting to burn in his eyes and that’s something that hasn’t been there in a while.

Seth Iser:
But I’m going to find a way to kick her ass here in San Diego tonight…position myself better to deal with BROOKFORD later because I don’t want a damn thing handed to me. Yeah I pointed out how great she is…but I damn sure am going to prove I’m better. Do you understand me?

Robbie Hayden:
Yes sir.

Seth Iser:
Now listen: Title opportunities are meant to be earned. It’s part of why I didn’t do the automatic rematch bullshit. That goes against what it really means as a competitor to professional wrestling. You earn your way to a company. You earn yourself a position in a tournament. You earn a chance to get into the damn picture. Why should it change just because you were once there? It doesn’t! So I’m going to find a way to put her down in the middle of that ring one way or another. In a manner completely different then our match two years ago. Then I’ll find a third way to put her down in FGA. There won’t be a damn thing anybody can do to stop me in my quest. Not Lowri, not Duke, not Julian Nelson and his broken god damned face, not current champion BROOKFORD nor longest reigning champion Melissa. Not even the god damn Pope! Nothing is stopping me. I will be a two time World Champion here before I hang up the damn boots. I can get better than where I was and I’m getting there. I can be healthier then where I was. I’m going to DEFY the aging conventions of this god damn sport and have one of my best years north of forty! And I’m going to make a point by defeating Lowri Moss in the middle of that ring in two different cities on national television!

With that brazen statement with fire the veteran then walks off from Robbie, done answering questions. It seems he’s made his statement in fire and ice.

In a scene that’s clearly pre-taped, BROOKFORD can be seen sitting at the head of a large brown oak wood boardroom table. Dressed in a gray button up suit with a red tie, BROOKFORD casually begins to address the camera.

BROOKFORD:
The question on everyone's mind is, what is going on between me and Evie? Is it business? Or is it personal? A little bit of both? She was right, us chumming it up on Twitter is how rumors start. All you need to know right now, whatever me and Evie discussed backstage at Riot is none of your business right now. Or ever. Wait and see.

Now onto something I can speak freely on. Glory, I heard you. Was wondering how long it was gonna take before you made your intentions clear. You were distracted by Sutter, I get it. Nice to see the Glory Braddock who is focused on becoming World Champion make her storied return. My interest is piqued. Me versus you one-on-one would be a money match for the ages, no doubt in my mind. Hopefully the referee in charge doesn’t forget the stipulation if and when our showdown happens, we don’t want another two outta three falls incident.

BROOKFORD winks.

BROOKFORD:
Should the day come you and I do meet face to face. Championship, no championship, I have no problems doing business. It appears I caused quite a stir circumventing management’s initial plans for Centum. How was I supposed to know management didn’t have Reeves in mind. I don’t regret issuing the challenge. I don’t regret calling my shot. In case you missed it, I did allude to wanting to give Seth a title shot. He is the only person left who has a win over me I haven’t been able to avenge. That’s big money too. And Lowri? Isn’t she always at the top of the conversation when it comes to big money matches? The World Championship picture is the hottest it's ever been. A petri dish of challengers waiting in the wings. I know what match I want to see happen, in the interest of avoiding people claiming I am ducking anyone. Elsa. Vincent. Sit around an open fire, I don’t care. I will face anyone you deem worthy. Only fair. I took up enough time. BROOKFORD, out.

BROOKFORD nods as the scene fades to black.