Millennium XLIV: Homecoming Tour -Dallas

The camera pans backstage where Joey Leclair is seen walking slowly down the hallway wearing his ring gear as he is making his way to the ring for his debut match against Teddy Steele when he notices the camera, and turns to face it.

Joey Leclair:
Tonight I make my debut in Millennium which will be the biggest federation I have ever worked for in front of the biggest audience of my career which means it's make it or break it, so am i nervous? Not at all, because at the end of the day I am most comfortable inside that ring which never changes.

Joey pauses for a moment and smirks while cracking his knuckles.

Joey Leclair:
Now I did some research on my opponent tonight, and he calls himself Black Sexy Teddy, and he is evidently a pretty good rapper, and likes to talk a lot, but other than that the only content I could find on him in the ring was against Kenzie Garrett where he got squashed. and that he honestly looked sloppy which tells me that he is all talk, and no action which angers me, because I have been in this business for twelve years, i started training when I was sixteen, and debuted when I was twenty, and so when I see someone talking all big, but lacking in the ring? It excites me, because when I get inside the ring, and the start talking smack?

Joey smiles sinisterly.

Joey Leclair:
All it takes is one punch, and then they will realize they done messed up, and that it is to late to run, because I don't care about getting into a war of words nor do I care about putting on phenomenal matches! All I care about is knocking people's teeth through their throat, and covering my hands in their blood, and tears, and why am I so intent on hurting people? No reason other than I am an asshole, and the fact is that if you can't handle the pain then get out of my ring, and go get a new hobby.

Joey moves his head from side to side getting out the kinks.

Joey Leclair:
Teddy I am feeling generous so tonight if you are lucky I will spare you career, and just give you the gift of a trip to the hospital, and Millennium? Tonight you learn why I am called the Death Dealer!. Survive if I let you!

Joey turns away from the camera, and grabs the curtains leading to the arena as his theme music starts playing.

The scene cuts backstage to Rhett Adelson, who’s stretching his legs to prepare for his match. He glances at the camera and smiles before he stands up straight and waves.

Rhett Adelson:
Sup everyone? Guess I should drop a few words huh?

Rhett shrugs before continuing on.

Rhett Adelson:
What is there to say? I talked about Cheesecake last week but then the match didn’t happen thanks to her problems with Jacob. Now I’m teaming with Jacob against Cheesecake and Big Barv. I just hope they don’t try to run. Seems like it’s been their thing lately.

Rhett steps towards the camera, keeping his eyes on it.

Rhett Adelson:
I’ll make this plain and simple, alright? There won’t be any escape for you two tonight. There will be a match and Jacob and I will have our hands raised in the air in victory. It’s as simple as that. You two? You don’t stand a chance. Believe it.

He walks out of the locker room and the scene cuts away.

We open to a scene backstage, where Big Barv is standing center frame. With his arms folded in what has quickly become his signature standing position, he stares menacingly into the camera. Just a few steps in front of him paces his best friend, Cheesecake, who is pacing a hole in the floor. Back and forth, back and forth. She shakes her head vigorously, takes a sharp breath and pauses in place to face the frame.

Cheesecake:
There’s a conspiracy goin’ on here. A conspiracy, an’ I’m the victim!

Her shouting is interrupted when she suddenly grabs for the back of her neck, giving a wince as the pain filled expression on her face fades.

Cheesecake:
I’ve been at home the last two weeks, nursin’ an injury to my neck that I got at the hands of that thug on the latest Millennium! Ever since then, I been dealin’ with headaches, nausea, trouble concentratin’. I finally get in to see my doctor - who’s the best in the biz, that’s why the waitin’ list is so long - an’ I get some meds to help me deal with the cripplin’ pain I been experiencin’. I get home, prop my neck on some pillows to get comfy an’ all that ... I settle in on my phone an’ check my Twitter, see what’s happenin’, an’ what do I see? This incompetent moron Chloe Collins decides that she’s gonna book me in a match! Umm … did ya even think to gimme a call an’ ask how I’m feelin’?! Seriously, I don’t know who decided to give this chick a job as the Millennium GM, but they for real need to lose theirs.

She shrugs.

Cheesecake:
It’s whatevs. Ya know, I’ll go with it, cuz I got a bone to pick with this dude. This dude, this degenerate Jacob Cross, who got nothin’ better to do with his spare time than to waste it on social media. I bet ya could go on his profile on any given day an’ find at least half a dozen posts that’re nothin’ more than garbage banter with randos, or mirror selfies sayin’ how ripped he is. The same dude who does the ultimate beta play an’ subtweets ‘bout how I’m comin’ to the ring with a shitty wrestlin’ name. To that, I gotta say dude, when the best nickname ya could come up with for yaself was “Cowboy”...

She sarcastically throws her hands up in mocking fashion.

Cheesecake:
… ya ain’t in no position to be talkin’ shit on the names of others, pal. Ya coulda called yaself anythin’ to set ya apart from the rest, an’ ya settled on somethin’ that ain’t even remotely unique. Somethin’ that hundreds of wrestlers have used already. But ya couldn’t even do that, could ya? An’ ya really think ya can play at my level?

A breathy chuckle escapes as she looks to the floor, shaking her head, almost in disbelief as she continues on.

Cheesecake:
Anyway, Cowboy takes it upon himself to attack me ahead of my match against Rhett Adelson; another self-obsessed, muscle-bound meathead who don’t know what’s good for him. If he did, he woulda stepped aside instead of joinin’ in. But cuz whatever “supplements” he’s on ruined the part of his brain that uses common sense ... he’s in my sights, too.

She clicks her tongue and wags a finger. All that’s missing from this scene is a tin foil hat perched on her chestnut-coloured bowl cut.

Cheesecake:
There’s more at play here. This ain’t just a simple surface conspiracy, no no no. There are layers to this one. Meathead saw that he was facin’ the almighty Cheesecake an’ he knew he wasn’t gonna stand a chance. This is the part ya didn’t see … Meathead went to Cowboy an’ was all like, “Cowboy! Ya gotta help me! I’m up against Cheesecake this week an’ I don’t know how I’m gonna survive! What’s the secret? How do ya beat such a legend?”

Her impression of Adelson is overly masculine with a self-deprecating sarcastic tone. She shifts to a mockery of a southern accent.

Cheesecake:
To which Cowboy is like, “I ain’t got no clue, Meathead! Like you, I only got half a functionin’ brain! I’ve tried to beat her twice already an’ I can’t figure out how!” They were startin’ to see it may even be impossible. Even with their limited thinkin’ capacity, they were able to realise … one half brain plus another half brain equals a full one. So, when they evolved past the intelligence of a pre-schooler eatin’ glue, what was their next move?

There’s a pause for a heartbeat as Cheesecake composes herself. She extends a pair of open palms to the camera and slowly waves them outward.

Cheesecake:
Lemme set the scene for ya. These dudes come together an’ they go to the GM, who’s probs in her office paintin’ her nails or some shizz instead of learnin’ how to put together a wrestlin’ show. Cowboy goes, “Please! Give us a match against Cheesecake!” An’ Chloe’s all like, “Why?”

The tone in her voice for her Chloe impersonation is pompous and nasally. What you’d typically associate with a popular cheerleader girl from a film set high school.

Cheesecake:
Naturally, Cowboy tells her, “Cuz she’s so much better than us, an’ we ain’t got what it takes to get it done on our own!” Chloe goes, “Well, yah, totally! Cheesecake’s like, so annoying and whatevah. Even though I just suspended someone for the same kinda attack, instead of punishing you two, I’m gonna give you boys exactly what you want!”

She claps her hands together, the loud smack echoing through the corridor they’re filming in.

Cheesecake:
So the fix was in. Cowboy an’ Meathead are now gettin’ what they no doubt think’ll be an easy win tonight. They look at me an’, like most wrestlers, assume that cuz of my size, I ain’t a legit threat.

She wears a devilish grin.

Cheesecake:
But they ain’t takin’ into account on one thing …

She points a thumb over her shoulder and turns slightly as she raises her voice.

Cheesecake:
This man lurkin’ behind me ain’t no ordinary man! This is Big Barv! 256 pounds of hulkin’ power … he’s a wreckin’ machine! Everywhere he’s gone, this beast has left bodies in his wake! He’s ripped through chumps like Cowboy an’ Meathead the world over … he’s spilled the blood of his enemies on every damn continent on the planet! An’ at this past Millennium? Y’all pissed him off. He don’t like it when peeps put their hands on me like that.

Like he’s reacting to what’s being said, Big Barv breathes heavier and heavier until each breath he takes is more like a snarl.

Cheesecake:
It’s time to stop with ya obsessive chasin’, Cowboy. Time to accept the fact that ya just like everyone else on this roster: nothin’ compared to me. Go back to treatin’ ya Twitter timeline like it’s ya text messages or at least find someone else to harass because this thing’s gotta stop. An’ Rhett Adelson? Ya like to claim you’re as professional as it gets, eh? Maybe ya should take ya eyes off that Millennium Title ya talk ‘bout earnin’ a shot at for a moment an’ pay attention to what’s standin’ right in front of ya tonight. Tonight, the pair of ya are gonna pay for what you’ve done. Barv is gonna break ya down until ya feel the pain I’ve had to endure the past two weeks! An’ even then? He ain’t gonna stop. Not until ya get it through ya thick skulls an’ into ya barely functionin’ half brains that you are nothin’!

Millennium cuts in on Victoria Salinas who certainly dealt with her fair share of frustration after last week’s match. She’s in a bit more of a sullen mood indicating that there’s a part of her that’s still recovering from what took place. Reflecting while she sits on a crate, sporting a white robe covering her wrestling gear., she knows that the cameras are on her but this doesn’t bother her at all considering that speaking her mind is exactly what she wants to do.

Victoria Salinas:
Last week, I poured my heart and soul into that main event. I knew going in that I felt like I didn’t deserve to be in that. I knew that I had the most to prove considering I was the one that had gained the least amount of traction in this company. I knew that if I had to get to where I wanted to be, that was a match that I had to win and I had this all in mind in the shadows of the feeling that I didn’t belong in that match. I was so caught up on the consequences of what would happen if I didn’t win that in all honesty, I had already lost the match long before I even showed up to Minneapolis.

Victoria pauses and shakes her head still showing some signs of frustration from last week.

Victoria Salinas:
It’s matches like that, that I’ve made a career out of winning. But now? It’s felt like I can’t win those types of matches anymore… or at least I felt that way in the immediate aftermath of it all. It’s felt like the last year and a half, nothing can go right no matter what I do or how hard I tried. I’m not going to sugar coat the fact that it’s been tempting to give in and either be done with this whole thing or to sell myself out and be something that I’m not just to get ahead and I’ve gone down that route before and I already know that it’s going to make me completely miserable. I refuse to go down that path again. Some of you might think that I’m taking last week too hard… that I had “nothing to lose anyway”. What kind of mindset is that? The moment you think that you have “nothing to lose”, you’ve already lost because having that mindset is complacency in the sense that you think losing won’t affect you… and it’s also a mindset of desperation. So yeah, I took that result very hard… but why wouldn’t I? This is what I live for, this is what I do. The only truth to that mindset is that I’m not any lower on the ladder than I already am. So no, I wasn’t in any sort of decline last week… just stuck in place…

The words “stuck in place” are enough to bring out a brief moment of anger out of her.

Victoria Salinas:
Well, that’s what I’ve been for the last year and a half and I’m TIRED OF IT! I’m NOT going to give in to the reality of my age and just accept the fact that the prime of my career is over! I’m NOT going to just sit back and let the wrestlers that are younger than me just take over and use me as their stepping stone!

Victoria pauses and she stands up from the crate.

Victoria Salinas:
I’ve let that happen too much since the moment I walked in here! I’m DONE with being “stuck in place”. I’m done letting all this crap get to me. And as far as Teagan Gallagher is concerned… honey… you’re NOT going to use me as a stepping stone! You want to hear a little story about the early part of my career? I’ll give you one. Nine years ago, there was a kid that I wrestled with… wrestled against… he was from here… a proud, Texas native, a massive ego right up his ass and for most of that summer, he was always one step ahead of me and it frustrated me. No matter what I did, it seemed like he was always better. I never realized how synonymous it was with this situation I’ve been in… where I’ve felt like no matter what I do, nothing ever changes. But then it hit me… nothing changed then because I was always fearing for the worst… and things aren’t changing how I want them to now because I’m making that same mistake. “Vainglorious” has felt more like an empty nostalgia act that has an empty meaning more than what it really is.
Nine years ago, I cleaned the slate and eventually, I overtook that wrestler. I not only beat him to a world title, I made damn sure he never won it himself. I overcame him, his ego, his nonsense… all the toxicity of it… and this city once hated me for it. But hey, time has passed, all is forgiven. So tonight Teagan…

Victoria removes her robe to reveal a brand new, sparking, neon pink colored wrestling attire.

Victoria Salinas:
I do what I did back then… I clean the slate. I forget all about the negativity, I forget all about the fears, the consequences… I slow down my mind… I show the world what I’ve learned in the last week… and I show you what wrestling is all about. I show you what VAINGLORIOUS truly is. I show you what I can do when I’m firing on all cylinders, when I’m not being held back by my own psyche.
I’m reclaiming it all, Teagan… and it starts with YOU! Nothing personal… but it’s about damn time that I quit allowing myself to be other people’s stepping stones around here. “Victim Vicky” is a thing of the past and you’re not prepared for what I have in store for you.

Victoria leaves the scene hearing some huge cheers from the crowd. She maintains her determination and even some of her anger as the scene fades out.

The feed switches to Los Olivos, California and the home of The Chicago Way Champion, Jacob Hammerstein and his family. Hammerstein, his wife, Holly, and their two year old daughter, Zoey are joined by Hammerstein's manager, Reese Kennedy.

The group is relaxing in their living room, watching the Millennium broadcast, while Zoey plays in the floor.

Hammerstein
Reese, my man, you are one smooth operator. Getting that one month suspension reduced to one week? That was fuc…

Holly Hammerstein
No f-bombs in front of Zoey, Hammie.

Holly smiles slyly at her husband.

Hammerstein
Okay, okay. Reese, that was a stroke of genius!

Kennedy stands and takes a bow.

Reese Kennedy
It wasn't that difficult, really. Just saying the right thing to the right person at the right time. And I was this close to getting it paid, too!

The adults break into laughter, and are quickly joined by Zoey, who toddles over to her dad. The American Monster picks her up and hugs her tightly.

Hammerstein
That's right, Zoey. Uncle Reese almost got Daddy a paid vacation just for crushing some worthless rookie's skull.

The toddler giggles at her dad's goofy facial expressions. Her mother shakes her head. She reaches for Zoey.

Holly Hammerstein
Okay, Sweetie, enough of Daddy tryin to warp your little sponge-like brain. Let's get you fed.

She picks the baby up and takes her to the kitchen to feed her. Hammerstein watches them both as they leave.

Hammerstein
Reese, I should've gave Kenzie the asskicking I gave Paige. A year ago, and they would've been squeegeeing her gray matter off the mat.

Kennedy waves a finger in Hammerstein's direction.

Reese Kennedy
A year ago and I would have let you. But you're a Champion. Just because you're a hardcore champion doesn't negate the fact that you're a Champion, nonetheless. You're bringing a little common sense and professionalism to a division that has sorely lacked both. You are the evolution of the hardcore wrestler. A wrestler that conducts themselves as a professional outside the ring, and transforms into a vicious beast at the sounding of the bell.

The fact that Garrett is too dimwitted to follow protocol shouldn't negate what you're trying to accomplish in the division.

Now, let's get back to watching this company shoot itself in the foot, ratings wise, by keeping their biggest star off their show.

The pair laughs as they turn their attention to the TV, just before the feed cuts back to the arena.

Backstage in the catering area we find Bree who has her Monster's University hat on but isn't eating anything on her plate. She's moving the pasta salad around with the plastic fork and her left knee bounces nervously. She's currently alone as Chris is just visible in the background paying for his dinner and promptly joins her. He smiles as he sits across from her and notices that she’s not the usual bubbly Bree.

Christopher Kane:
Okay, anyone who has a Monster’s University hat on cannot look this upset. Your knee is shaking, you’re playing with your food, and I’d hate to say it, you’re nervous about tonight.

He takes a bite of a salad he made that features all sorts of lovely greens and tomatoes… and an apple to the side.

Christopher Kane:
What’s on your mind, Breeberry?

Bree Smith:
Being back is great but last time I was here I got SOOO close to winning the battle royale…. I don't want to be the runner up again two shows in a row. Teegs is even in her own match this week and everything Dude. I feel a lot of pressure.

Bree admits but tries to pretend she didn't say that last sentence. Christopher puts his fork down and leans back in a folding chair.

Christopher Kane:
Battle royales are a roll of the dice. A lot of it comes down to luck, and sometimes, fortune doesn’t want to favor us. Second sucks, yeah, but it’s a process and you’re used to having someone there to tag in when you’re feeling worn down. I know it doesn’t seem like it, but every loss is a learning experience, Bree.

He extends his hand across the table for her to try to feel some comfort.

Christopher Kane:
If it wasn’t so hard, it wouldn’t be as nearly rewarding to finally get what you’ve been chasing. You shouldn’t have to feel pressure tonight against Starling. Just relax and wrestle how you wrestle.

Bree Smith:
I will try to. I just want to feel what it's like to win. Be a Champion like everyone in my family. Millie's fully trained now and what if she wins a Championship before me?

She gradually speaks a bit quicker with the sibling rivalry on her shoulders and takes her first bite of her food.

Bree Smith:
Sometimes it gets to me when I'm working out and that's my happy place.

He simply watches Bree, her movements when speaking and the tone in her voice.

Christopher Kane:
I get the wanting to do something before someone else in your family. I felt like I had this pressure to do better than Jordan, do better than Brittany, and all it caused me was stress which led to more mistakes in the ring. You know what solved that?

He pauses for a slight moment.

Christopher Kane:
Being happy for their accomplishments while still trying to get your own. No one should compare you to Millie or Mimi or whoever else in the ring. You’re all different and are different wrestlers. Your time will come, and when it does Bree, it will be one of the sweetest moments of your career and your life.

Bree takes a big bite and speaks a little muffled.

Bree Smith:
My time is taking it's sweet time…

She says in her grumpy tone. After she finishes the bite, she asks.

Bree Smith:
What do you know about Anastasia Starling? Any last minute advice, Dude?

Chris only shrugs at her question about Starling. While he did have his own bone to pick with her, he still didn’t know much about her in-ring abilities yet.

Christopher Kane:
Not a whole lot. Just that she talks way too much and seems to be upset at people and likes to call herself a monster. The whole thing really seems super pretentious. But, I think she’s also pretty damn dangerous in the ring too.

He munches on a big hunk of his salad.

Christopher Kane:
Do you want me out there with you incase she tries anything shady?

Bree thinks about it for a moment but shakes her head while waving her hand.

Bree Smith:
Not necessary. I think I should be able to out monster the monster.

As Bree reveals her little high school Breezilla wristband she puts on from her bag.

Bree Smith:
I can't suddenly become a damsel in distress now... but thank you for offering. I'll be ok. Don't worry.

Chris smiles and yanks away the wristband.

Christopher Kane:
Don’t think you’d ever be a damsel in distress and that’s what makes so you bad ass, Brianna.

A smirk came on his face as he knew what that’s going to lead to.

Christopher Kane:
I have faith in you every time you step into that ring to get the job done.

Bree Smith:
If you think those kind words save you from calling me that.

Bree flings a piece of her pasta salad at him.

Bree Smith:
You're wrong, Dude. Ha!

She says as it lands. Chris responds by throwing a tomato at her. He gets up and dashes over the table, grabbing Bree and laughs.

Christopher Kane:
It’s a food fight you want, huh? It’s a food fight you’ll get!

He grabs a piece of her pasta salad and marks her forehead with it. Bree's brow lowers and her eyes narrow. In her head the Kill Bill theme was playing and she picks up her own food.

Bree Smith:
You're done now, Dude!

And she begins to throw everything she's got at him while trying to avoid what he's throwing at her. The two continue to throw bits of food at one another until one of the security guys steps in and glares at the duo, stopping them from continuing on. Chris takes Bree by the hands and looks directly at her.

Christopher Kane:
Look, Bree, you can do this. With Teegs, with whoever else or just by yourself. You can do this. You have so many friends in the locker room, the fans love you, I dig you and your family will never have any say in what you can and can’t do with their own success. I… Breelieve in you.

Despite not being booked for tonight’s program, Christopher Kane is there regardless, wearing a fine looking suit because he is a goddamn professional. The second generation wrestler has an apple and a bottle of water in his hands, taking a bite of the apple before he bumps into a figure he was not expecting, almost knocking them over. The black masked figure of Anastasia Starling shot around, her gloved hands clenched defensively as she glared at Kane with those greens and blues. She didn’t say a word, her eyes shooting to the right as if she was keeping her eyes on something or someone, before she half turned away from him.

Anastasia Starling:
Watch your steps… You never know what you might walk in on.

Starling responded, her arms trembling slightly as she cast her gaze off to whatever was originally her focus. Christopher takes another bite of his apple, a green one, and smirks. He knows that Starling calls herself the Monster and, well…

Christopher Kane:
Maybe I’m out here Monster hunting today. You don’t know.

Another smug bite of the apple. A few shards come close to hitting Starling but Chris obviously doesn’t care. He may have not seen it, but Ana twitched as he repeated that word, causing her to take in a few deep breaths.

Christopher Kane:
You know, got to thinking about what you just said. About walking in on a situation. I walked into one once, was pretty weird. This jealous woman kept giving out all these long winded messages about this or that, and then kept on trying to say some petty shit. Was pretty interesting.

Anastasia Starling:
That sounds fascinating, I’m sure I’d be interested if I was in a different place, different time, different frame of mind…

Ana half turned again, making eye contact with the multi time champion. Chris took another bite while keeping eye contact, that smug look still on his face.

Anastasia Starling:
… But I didn’t come here to chit chat backstage with the masses of the roster. My time is precious and so are what few moments I have before I take a merry old step here or there or everywhere. I doubt you would have the mental grasp of what I am doing presently, and you are distracting me. So please allow me my own space and time.

Starling turned again, seemingly peering off into the distance once more, but the camera could not pick up exactly what she was paying such close attention to. Chris rolls his eyes after she finishes.

Christopher Kane:
My god you really are a pretentious thing aren’t you? It’s bad enough you go off about being a monster, but you really think your shit doesn’t stink, don’t you?

He can only shrug as he finishes the apple.

Christopher Kane:
See, I don’t care about this whole monster business. I care about something else and I’m going to warn you to stop that. Stop talking about it. It’s done. Move on.

Anastasia flinched again when he repeated, quite purposely, that word that bothered her so much, a single tear rolling down her elfin face from underneath the raven mask, and she clearly grimaced as she gazed off into the distance, her hand reaching to the chain around her neck.

Anastasia Starling:
If you have a problem with a message of change, speak to HR. My change is about moving forward, not what has been done. You’d be smart to remember that, along with all my words and actions once the truth is before everyone’s eyes and waltzing into their ears. Do not concern yourself, and let me do what is right.

Her eyes lit up to whatever she was gazing upon, covering her mouth in shock as she drew in a few short breaths.

Anastasia Starling:
They are moving…

She took a sudden step forward, away from Christopher when he puts out his arm to stop her from moving.

Christopher Kane:
They are but you’re not. What you’re doing does concern me more than you think, monster. I’m going to warn you again, back off it, or I’ll make you back off it.

The smug look was gone, his expression becoming that of anger. Chris looks dead at Anastasia’s eyes.

Christopher Kane:
Do not pursue this or I will hunt you down and show you what a real monster is. Feel me?

Ana paid no mind to him, forcefully shoving his arm away as she tried to dart past, seemingly a much more urgent matter having gripped her action, and she never even cast the slightest glance at the former champion, one hand pushing him away, the other at the chain.

Anastasia Starling:
Keep your poison and misunderstanding away from me.

She let out, a strange emotion filling her voice, coming out like a desperate squeak as she moved swiftly to make her escape. Chris thinks about it for a moment before letting go.

Christopher Kane:
No, you keep your bullshit away from them.

Anastasia Starling:
You know nothing of what you speak of!

She cried out, her emotions beginning to overwhelm her after he constantly chose to say that word, the effect on her making her head duck as she looked to dive out around the corner and away. Chris shook his head after hearing the emotion in her voice, stopping her one more time as he tried to grab her by the shoulder.

Christopher Kane:
I know more than you think… Ana.

But his hand somehow managed to become interwoven with the chain, pulling her back as panic spread across Ana’s features. She span round, pushing Kane off of her as she let out a sudden banshee wail of emotion.

Anastasia Starling:
GET OFF! GET OFF OF IT!

She exclaimed breaking free, even taking Chris off guard as he prepared himself, possibly for one of those bursts of aggressive that the former Songbird had become known for over these past two months, but security were right on sight before anything could occur.

Anastasia Starling:
D-don’t touch it… Never touch it. Just let me do what I have to do!

Christopher watched on as he was held back by security, staring a hole in the woman in black. He takes a drink of his water and sighs giving another shake of the head as he departs the area muttering to himself, seeing the Passerine leap around the corner and away from the guards, almost silently in a roll, before vanishing completely from sight. Chris turns back one last time to see nothing there.

Christopher Kane:
You can fool everyone else, but I see through it…

We return to the inside of the Hammerstein home. The family is inside of their Los Olivos abode, seated in the living room, eyes on the television watching the Millennium broadcast. Hammerstein looks at Kennedy, chuckling.

HAMMERSTEIN:
I can't believe Garrett no-showed her match!

Kennedy returns the chuckle.

REESE KENNEDY:
Now that's hardcore!

Suddenly, a loud crash is heard. A glass sliding door shatters, shards of the broken pieces of door hitting the linoleum of the kitchen tile. Holly gasps on the couch, clutching Zoey close as Kenzie Garrett steps through the wreckage of the shattered door. The glass crunches beneath her boots. Her eyes are dark, marking a lack of sleep, her skin pale. Her dark hair is pulled into a ponytail and her clothing consists of a pair of tattered up black skinny cut jeans and a form-fitting black tanktop. Most pressing though is the scowl planted on her face and the heavy tape on her knuckles and hands from having busted them open at the Minneapolis show. The assist has to go to a heavy garden rock, as shown by the remaining pieces of glass that have a spider web pattern in them.

HOLLY HAMMERSTEIN:
What the fuck?! Jacob?! What the fuck?!

She asked, frightened. Clutching and consoling a screaming Zoey as closely as she could, panic in her gaze.

HAMMERSTEIN:
Take Zoey and go! Now!

Kenzie seethes, letting out a primal scream as she marches in. Kennedy stands to protest, but Garrett knocks him unconscious with one punch. She grabs from the wall a cast iron skillet, storming into the living room where Hammerstein is waiting. Holly rushes for the stairs, her daughter in her arms.

HOLLY HAMMERSTEIN:
I’m calling the police!

But her words go unheard, as Kenzie’s tunnel vision is on the suspended man, her grip tightening around the pan’s heavy, thick handle.

HAMMERSTEIN:
You goddamn maniac! You bust into MY house?! With my family here?!

KENZIE GARRETT:
I don’t give a DAMN about your family, and you certainly don’t give a fuck about mine!

She swings the pan, aiming for the head. He catches it with his arm, the pain of pure iron on flesh and bone certainly aching but less than a headshot would. He wrestles it away from her, throwing it to the side only to catch a stiff shot to the face from the small scrapper. Raging at this home invasion, he returns the shot. His larger body and more impressive power knocking Kenzie back as she clutched her face. She rages, clutching her jaw and spitting into his face before again trading blows with him. The fight is back and forth, finding Kenzie taking a glass, decorative vase from a mantle and smashing it over the head of Hammerstein, but he absorbs the blow! Throwing Kenzie aggressively into the wall even as the blood trickles down his forehead from the pottery being smashed against it. She aggressively bounces off of the stone that surrounds the fireplace, wincing and clutching at her back.

Fuming, Hammerstein grabs hold of a fire poker. He jabs the sharp tip down, Kenzie barely rolling out of the way in time to avoid being impaled by the champion. Her boot rises, and plants its glass-filled sole right into the groin of Hammerstein. The pain makes him hiss and suck his teeth, doubling over at the tiny glass shards and the hard kick right to the family jewels. Kenzie takes this time to pick herself up, taking hold of a thick, orange extension cord. She jumps onto his back, wrapping the cord around his neck, pulling hard with all her might!

He winces and wheezes. His face turning an aggressive shade of purple. Hammerstein is down to one knee, puffing hard while Kenzie drives her elbow into the back of his head time and time again.

KENZIE GARRETT:
Fuck you!

Elbow!

KENZIE GARRETT:
Fuck your family!

Elbow!

KENZIE GARRETT:
Fuck what you did to Erin!

Elbow!

KENZIE GARRETT:
Fuck your BULLSHIT suspension!

Elbow!

KENZIE GARRET:
FUCK- AHH!

He loops his fingers into the cord, getting it away from his windpipe. Seemingly taking on a second wind as he pulls the cord and flips the significantly smaller girl over his head, sending her crashing back first through the glass coffee table! She arches her back, blood seeping through the dark clothes as glass pricks through the skin of her back. He smirks at his handiwork, only to see a shaky arm raise from The Soulknife, sending a middle finger in his direction. He seethes, picking her up with ease from the wreckage, hoisting her over his shoulder. Craziness is in his eyes as he aims her at the television, preparing to launch her like a lawn dart! Kenzie pushes off of his shoulder at the last minute, landing on shaky legs and grabbing the pan from earlier. Swinging it at his face and connecting with his cheek. His head turns sideways, and he retaliates by grabbing the flailing Fresno native, launching her overhead. Hammerplex through the kitchen wall! Drywall and plaster explode from the impact and Kenzie lands on the tile on the other side!

HAMMERSTEIN:
Fuck this! And fuck you, too! I'm ending this shit right now. A home invasion….I was just defending my home and my family….no jury would...

He grabs hold of a hefty kitchen cleaver. Looming threateningly over Kenzie, who again meets him with a middle finger, barely showing signs of life. However, the screeching sound of sirens in the background make him drop it back into place, backing up and away from her as the police enter the home.

OFFICER:
Police! Back away from one another, now!

He complies, taking a step back from her. Hands in the air and a callous smirk on his face. Kenzie sits up, stirring. A glazed over look in her eyes as blood seeps from her and splinters litter her face and hair.

KENZIE GARRETT:
Fuck… you…!

She picks herself up, launching herself at him again, slowly and weakened. Throwing punches at him as the police physically separate the two. Pulling Kenzie off and away, dragging her by the wrists. Struggling as they read her her rights, to which she is paying absolutely no attention as a handcuff is secured to her wrist.

KENZIE GARRETT:
Give me my fucking match!

HAMMERSTEIN:
Maybe in 5 to 10 years, when you’re out…

KENZIE GARRETT:
I’ll be out soon, and it’ll get so much fucking worse for you, I promise. I told you this was going to be the worst fucking week of your life but it can get SO much worse if you keep dodging me! You can’t be here all the time, you fucking prick!

He seethes at the threat to his family, Kenzie kicking, screaming, and flailing as she is led out the front door. Pure fire and rage in her eyes as she is led outside of the Hammershield home.

Kenzie is seated in the squad car. The door is open, her feet planted on the ground. Both wrists are securely fastened behind her back thanks to the thick steel handcuffs. Her eyes are sliced coldly, glaring vindictively at the window of the Hammerstein house that she can see into. The interview process is tedious, and will be even moreso while waiting for the EMTs to come and treat the gashes and wounds that are currently making blood seep through her back and through the material of her clothes.

Hammerstein and another officer come out, Kenzie shaking her head in disgust.

OFFICER:
Miss Mackenzie Garrett, Mr. Jacob Hammerstein here has decided against pressing charges on you when it comes to the count of trespassing, breaking and entering, and felonious assault.

KENZIE GARRETT:
Not the first in a long line of stupid ass decisions he’s made.

HAMMERSTEIN:
Oh I’ve thought about it. I thought about how I should punish you for knocking a few teeth loose, scaring my wife and daughter… but how could you ever watch my reign as Chicago Way Champion from behind bars?

Kenzie seethed. Aggressively shaking and tugging at the cuffs that refused to so much as budge. Gritting her teeth relentlessly.

HAMMERSTEIN:
And one more thing… if you ever think about coming here again, you won’t be leaving in a squad car. You’ll be leaving in a hearse.

As the show returns from commercial, the classic “Left, Left Right Left” is heard echoing throughout the arena. The lights dim down as a solo white light hits the ramp.

As “The Second Amendment” by Who TF is Justin Time? (DA Mix) begins to play as Duke emerges from the back. Holding the MWE Lockdown championship high in the air, letting the spotlight reflect off the gold strap.

Slowly he makes his way down the ramp, holding the title over his right shoulder, using his left hand to comb his reddish colored long beard as he stops at the end of the ramp. The solo light following him. His head is covered with a backwards red cap, sure to anger fifty percent of the crowd, the white font on the front reading “Make Liberals Cry Again”. Sporting a black t-shirt with a white skull and rack on the front with bright green letters that read “HUNT” underneath.

Instead of using the steps, he jumps to the apron and climbs into the ring. Hearing the half of the crowd boo him, the other half cheering. He stops in the middle of the ring and faces the hard camera, raising the middle finger on his left hand for a moment, allowing the camera to focus on that and his shit eating grin before he turns and walks to the corner to grab a microphone.

“TAP TAP TAP”

Using his left hand to beat on the top of the microphone as the lights stay dark.

Duke Andrews:
Thank you Dallas.

Duke lowers the microphone to seventy five percent boos from the crowd.

Duke Andrews:
Thank you for allowing me to step foot in this shit hole of a city. Full of disgusting swines as people, and some of the worst beer I’ve ever tasted.

The crowd is turning more on Duke as he tosses the title to the ground and hops out of the ring. Walking to a large fan in the front row. Snatching the tall plastic cup from his hand and taking a long swig before turning and spitting it out.

Duke Andrews:
Exactly as I thought. Can’t wait to get back home.

More boos rain down from the crowd as Duke jumps back into the ring.

Duke Andrews:
For the better part of the last year I’ve stepped into this ring and put forth the effort that you dickheads could only dream of doing. I’ve ended Christian Michaels to the point he’s now hanging on the last few flips from Javen.

The crowd begins to chant for the McMillion brothers.

*See-Em!* clap clap clap *Jay-Ven* clap clap clap *See-Em!* clap clap clap

Duke Andrews:
Keep chanting, they know what’s best and they ain’t coming down to my ring. Then you had Robbie what’s his face, wanting to jump on the train, and I knocked him back into his mommas basement to retweet porn, and then I took this piece of gold

Duke leans down and grabs the title off the ground and holds it high in the air. Letting the crowd soak up the sight of the Lockdown Champion.

Duke Andrews:
And then I decided to have a little fun. You all think I can only brawl and throw people around, but you, just like every little pissant in the back, are forgetting about the submission based technical style I brought to the forefront of ICWA, of PWT, and every where else I turned. So I put my stipulation on the line and let anyone who wanted to step forward try and make me tap. And the only poor sack that tried was Kate Steel. Where is she now?

Duke shrugged his shoulders.

Duke Andrews:
Licking her wounds and trying to decide if she’s still cut out for this business. And then the challenge was laid out for everyone else. And yet a week later, not a single person has stepped up. So without further ado, I’m going to retire this…..

Before Duke could finish his sentence “The Phoenix” by Fall Out Boy hits the PA Speakers and the crowd rises to their feet as none other than Bobbi Jackson walks out onto the entrance stage with a microphone in hand…

Bobbi Jackson:
Not so fast there, Duke…

*BOBBI JACKSON* clap clap clap clap clap *BOBBI JACKSON* clap clap clap clap clap

The crowd roars their approval as the Phoenix looks out into the crowd and smiles warmly at everyone.

Bobbi Jackson:
I missed you too Dallas, but I’m not out here to address you guys right now. I’m out here to address you!

The Bobbilicious One says as she points her index finger directly at the Lockdown Champion.

Bobbi Jackson:
Now I know I haven’t been here in Millennium very long, but I’m starting to understand how things work around here. I wanted to come here and do things the right way. Work my way up the ladder as it were and get my shot against Reeves. But what happened? Some goofball named Grimey shows up and demands a title shot by interrupting the champion and it’s granted...See where I’m going with this?

The Phoenix grins ever so slightly.

Bobbi Jackson:
Now you say beyond Kate Steele no one else has stepped up to take your challenge? That might be true, until right now. I’ve made my last two opponents here in Millennium tap out and I’m looking for the trifecta. Let’s say you put that Lockdown Championship on the line next Sunday and the two of us go to war for it?

The crowd erupts in the dreaded “YES!” chants as the blonde surveys the crowd with a big grin on her face, knowing that the audience has made their feelings on the matter very clear.

Duke Andrews:
Let’s take a moment and try and understand your claim to this!

Duke slaps the title before adjusting his shoulder, letting it settle back in place.

Duke Andrews:
You’ve won a couple matches and think that you’re ready to step up to my league? That’s cute.

Duke pauses as he walks towards the ropes. Leaning against the top rope as he stares down at Bobbi.

Duke Andrews:
I’ve worked my entire career to get to the top. I came to MWE and dropped everyone in front of me, not once asking for a shot. I earned it. But since you’re looking for a fight, I can respect that. The problem for you, there ain’t gonna be a trifecta when I put you to sleep. So as far as I’m concerned, and you’ll need to get that bitch in charge, Chloe, to sign off on it, your dreams will become reality. I’ll put you to sleep and let you dream your way back to the bottom.

Bobbi smirks a bit.

Bobbi Jackson:
Your entire career, huh? Let me remind you Duke that just because I’m not to Millennium, I’m no rookie. I’ve been doing this for fifteen years! I got into this business when I was eighteen years old and I’ve seen and done it all. I’m still in it because I love it!

The Phoenix says getting fired up.

Bobbi Jackson:
I love the spirit of competition. I love hearing the roar of great crowds just like this one here in Dallas. And I LOVE proving people like you wrong!

The crowd cheers loudly again at not only them being referenced but the blonde’s statement as well.

Bobbi Jackson:
So please Duke. Try to put me to sleep this Sunday, but when push comes to shove? You won’t survive this Trial by Fire!

Jackson drops the microphone on the stage as her theme music plays again and she returns to the backstage area leaving Duke alone to process everything that just went down.

The scene cuts to ringside, where there is a table sitting down in the middle of the ring. On top of it is a black table cloth covering it and on top of that is the contract meant to be signed between Gavin Grimes and Melissa Reeves for the Millennium Championship in a TLC match. On each side of the table is a chair, one for the challenger and the other for the champion.

Peyton Holland:
Here we go, ladies and gentleman! It’s time for the contract signing between Melissa Reeves and Gavin Grimes.

Jessi Idol:
There really has been no love lost between these two of the last couple of years.

“Throne” by Bring Me The Horizon blares over the PA system and out walks Gavin Grimes, wearing a 49ers hoodie and SnapBack, black baggy jeans and a pair of red and black Jordan 2’s. The majority of the fans boo the man who dubs himself The Captain but Grimes brushes it off. He makes his way down the ramp before sliding into the ring and grabbing one of the microphones that is sitting firmly on the table. He takes a moment to take everything in before he begins to speak.

Gavin Grimes:
What’s up Dallas? How bout dem Cowboys!?

The fans pop off in cheers as Gavin rolls his eyes.

Gavin Grimes:
I don’t know why you’re cheering when your team is complete and utter ass! Unlike my undefeated 49ers! A real class organization, not one founded in a hick town like this!

Peyton Holland:
If Melissa doesn’t beat his ass, I swear...

Jessi Idol:
Grimes is a lot like my brother, he’s never one to mince words, ya know?

Peyton Holland:
I SWEAR I WILL FUCK HIM UP MYSELF!

The boos are heavy and loud as Gavin waves to the crowd to shower in more boos.

Gavin Grimes:
Speaking of ass, Melissa Reeves is the stinkiest Champion I’ve ever walked by. She doesn’t just stink on her body though, she also stinks in the ring, and Millennium deserves better than that. You deserve a champion that isn’t a two dollar whore. You all deserve a grade A champion, someone who brings class and honor. You deserve me.

Grimes grins as the fans boo once again. He takes a look at the contract before picking it up and signing his name.

Gavin Grimes:
And there it is. All that’s left is for Melissa Reeves to sign away her life because I’m going to end her and her sorry reign. So come on, Melissa, bring your stinky ass out here and sign this contract for your Millennium Championship in a TLC match against me, a match that I specialize in. Bring. It. On.

Gavin puts his hands out to the waist side as he waits for the Millennium Champion to make her appearance.

Melissa takes her sweet time though and it's clear she intends it as disrespect. But eventually Killswitch Engage's "No End in Sight" plays and the champion makes her way out to the entrance ramp, the title over one shoulder, a baseball bat in the one hand and a microphone in her opposite hand.

Melissa Reeves:
You know… It's funny. Sad, but funny. Gavin always resorts to the same insults. They're tired, they're provably false, they're boring. And then here we have a fully grown man calling someone a stinky ass? I had to check if I accidentally tuned into children's TV...but no, it really is the man who claims to be the next champion.

She shakes her head.

Melissa Reeves:
Just wow. I'm used to your poor attempts at getting under my skin but even for you this is bad. You come out here calling me a two dollar whore, that's cute. Especially from you. Blatantly false about me, too, and I'm too good to stoop so low in return. After all, if I start picking apart YOUR personal life?

She laughs. Gavin does not look at all happy.

Melissa Reeves:
Well we only have a finite amount of airtime, that's all I'm saying. So how about you show a little class for once in your sorry life? Huh?

He tries to reply but she cuts him off.

Melissa Reeves:
Shut up, bitch, the champion is still talking.

The crowd give a collective "oooo" and Reeves stares at Grimes.

Melissa Reeves:
What stinks here is your attitude. But that's what you've become, a parody of what you claim to be. For all the hype and all the talk, you're a scared little boy trying to find that magic, that spark which made him relevant for a little time. But you're not the guy now and simply beating you wouldn't be satisfying enough, not anymore. But besting you in something you claim you're a specialist at? That's all the more sweet.

Gavin steps up to the ropes and points at Melissa as he responds.

Gavin Grimes:
Speaking of sweet, how about you stop taking your sweet ass time and bring your sorry excuse ass to MY ring, huh? Or are you scared? Is that why you have the bat? I’m surprised you don’t have you little ‘Reaver’ look too, to be honest. You can do all you want to try and intimidate and insult me but at the end of the day? I’m still the greatest wrestler alive. So come on down here and sign this contract, unless… you’re scared.

She laughs and points the bat toward him.

Melissa Reeves:
This little thing? If you ever paid attention, instead of being stuck in 2017, you’d know I take this wherever I go. But then you do so enjoy being stuck in a time warp, don’t you? See, you don’t evolve, Grimes, but I do.

She paces over the stage from side to side.

Melissa Reeves:
You think you already reached the pinnacle, but some of us never stopped learning...never stopped advancing. So you want me to sign for this match? I will. In my own time. But since you’ve already signed it - that is assuming you can actually spell your own name - I do wonder if you read the fine print or not?

Gavin rolls his eyes and shakes his head.

Gavin Grimes:
Listen, if I read the fine print and every little fucking detail on this contract, we would be out here for longer than I would like and for longer than these slobby fans would like as well. These people have things to do! They have to farm and marry their sisters! So let’s hurry this shit up, I’ll even let you bring your little bat in here with you, you wannabe Nathan Callaghan. And you know what? You can read the fine print for both of us, alright? Good.

Gavin takes a seat in one of the chairs at the table and kicks his feet up on it as he waits for Melissa to make her way down to the ring. For her part, Reeves chuckles and shrugs as she saunters her way to the ring.

Melissa Reeves:
You really should have read it. You just agreed that any physical contact made from you onto my persons, outside of a sanctioned match, will forfeit your title opportunity. I told you, Gavin, I evolve. I remember. Your little ways, your shitty little tactics, they won’t fly with me.

She climbs into the ring now, leaving the bat at ringside, and holds the title up above her head.

Melissa Reeves:
You want to come for this, then try it. But you don’t get to pull off your sneaky shit, not this time. You’ll face me at 100% and you’ll get no room for excuse when I wipe my feet on the shreds of your career and walk out of Homecoming with this title exactly where it is now.

Smirking wide, she lowers the title and quickly signs the papers, throwing the pen toward Gav as she steps away again. Gavin laughs as stands up from the chair and walks towards Melissa, standing face to face with her as he raises his mic back up to his lips.

Gavin Grimes:
Looks like you should’ve taken advantage of that fine print then, Melissa. You could’ve had a free shot at me, you could’ve or softened me up but no. You chose what you think is the high road. But in all reality? The only road you’ve chosen is the downfall of your career. I will end you and your reign as the Millennium Champion. You can bet on that.

Gavin drops the mic and steps closer to Melissa to where their faces are only inches from each other and a cocky grin crosses over Gavin’s face. Despite being so close, Reeves still manages to nonchalantly raise the microphone again.

Melissa Reeves:
All this time that you’ve known me and you still don’t get it? I don’t want you softened. I don’t want excuses. I want what you think is your best, your 100%, so I can crush you. I want everything you can muster so that when you lose to me, it will hurt you the most. Because that, Gav, that is what you deserve. And make no mistake, it IS what you will get.

She drops the mic and holds her title aloft again, but stays face to face with hi while her music plays again. Neither backs down though, the intensity is there for all to see. These two are on a collision course, that’s for sure.

The scene cuts to backstage, where we see the Cloud Gate Champion herself, Tiff Rollins, already in her ring gear and warming up for her upcoming match. There’s been a lot of speculation on who her mystery partner will be for tonight’s main event; she’s been keeping things really quiet on the social media front, and she appears almost as if she’s going to war with Luna Smith and her partner all by herself. This is not her ordinary warm-up either; following what’s been going on between Luna and her boyfriend Coen Farrell, the seething look on her face could hint at anyone of her murderous intent.

As she stops jogging on the spot and leans against the wall, breathing deep as she’s about to go into battle, we then hear a familiar voice off screen…

Voice:
Slow down your breathing, you’re forcing yourself.

Came the cold, harsh voice of a figure in the shadows. As Tiffany turned, all she could see was a set of thick fingers, drumming lightly upon a wooden table, hammering at a tune that could well be familiar.

Voice:
There is a subtle difference between driving your emotion and letting it drive you, Tiffany. I do remember trying to explain that to you, once upon a time…

As Tiffany turned, her stature of determination unwinded to that of a nonchalant student, albeit in the presence of one of her mentors. Tiffany looked up to the figure off screen; a figure she is well accustomed to, and a figure she is willing to break character for, a feat that is only saved for those she respects.

Tiff Rollins:
I know. I remember too. But things are different this time…

The figure seemed to move, but there were no footsteps at all, only the silence of the fingerless gloves finishing their beat. As Tiff turned, she looked up to the figure, who couldn’t quite be seen due to the way the light shone on her, and the shadow consumed him.

Voice:
It always feels that way, but just because who have put your foot down on the pedal, it doesn’t mean you have to take your hands off of the wheel. It was not only myself who has said this to you, Tiffany. Even your own flesh and blood has uttered these words.

An arm came out, covered in black, biker leather with accent of gold upon it. The motif was that of a blood drenched morning star, crimson dripping down from it, and it seemed to be held by the strings of the Godfather logo, like it was being played by a puppeteer.

Voice:
Play cold if the weather changes. Play cruel if your kindness is unwanted. But play calculated or you will find yourself played. You need to remember who you are, and who you have grown to be. So many have tried to take this dangerous path and so many have not been able to climb out from the other side. And I do not want you to find yourself being one of those. You are better than that.

The young champion couldn’t argue with this. She looks down at her feet, admitting the truth behind these words. She had let her emotions get in the way, and she knew it.

Tiff Rollins:
I know...but…

She looks back up at the figure, still unsure of herself.

Tiff Rollins:
...but how can I focus in a time like this? For everything she’s done...all I wanna do is rip Luna’s face off…

Voice:
She could learn a considerable amount looking in the mirror to see she has no face… But where would that leave you?

The figure stepped out from the shadows, his hand still on Tiffany’s shoulder and the figure towered over her. He had a black hood pulled over his head, clad for battle in black and gold, and he seemed to breathe out smoke from underneath that hood.

Voice:
But where would that leave you? Of course, clinging onto a face, but despite the satisfaction of taking part in such an act, you would have to live with it forever. Instead, rather than in one act of madness, I suggest you play a different type of game.

The figure then pulled back his hood, revealing short dark hair, eyes that seemed to growl and a greying beard, but a battle worn face filled with steely determination, and an Eastern European accent to match came from his lips.

Andreas Lasiewicz:
Make them, and the world, always remember the day you took back your own pride.

The Polish Legend, a thirteen time World Champion and one of Tiffany’s long time coaches, cracked a smile that could potentially be viewed as pure evil, and The Morning Star took in a slow breath.

Andreas Lasiewicz:
It is your choice how you proceed from here on out, but as family… Let me give you this piece of advice… Do you think they want you to go in wild and uncontrollable? Of course they do, this is why they do as they do and say what they say. They don’t want you to grip that wheel, they want you to steer away and crash. What you need… is to go in the right direction and always know where you are going. Do not give in to recklessness and madness. I have seen far too many do that… Even in these halls right here.

These words stuck with Tiffany as the look of defeat turns into a look of acceptance.

Tiff Rollins:
You really have a way with words…

The look on Andreas’s face doesn’t budge, but Tiffany clearly looks up to her mentor, and despite the harshness of her situation, she can always rely on his advice.

Tiff Rollins:
You just can’t hold me accountable for the things I plan on doing to Luna…

Andreas then rested both hands on her shoulders, gentle for such a giant of a man. His eyes cast to the right by the window, the sound of wings fluttering by, but he returned his focus back to Tiffany.

Andreas Lasiewicz:
Nor will I. I will just try to help you see there is a better, more controlled way to accomplish what you require to do. You don’t have my name, nor my blood… But you are, and always will be family to me. And I will not let my family lose themselves…

That was it. Without warning, Tiffany breaks character and embraces Andreas with a hug. Andreas doesn’t respond at first, but acknowledging how much being a part of a family means to her, he simply allows her.

Tiff Rollins:
I really don’t deserve this…

Lasiewicz strokes her head gently, before pulling her away gently so he stare into her eyes once more.

Andreas Lasiewicz:
Never tell yourself that ever again.

The veteran smiled, before giving her a nod of encouragement.

Andreas Lasiewicz:
Now let us go out there together. Tonight, I stand by you.

Tiffany nods.

Tiff Rollins:
Alright...partner.