Post by Laura Phoenix - HBIC on May 27, 2020 23:20:47 GMT -5
(The PWS Apex logo flashes across the screen, but the footage cuts to a shot of an old abandoned building. We pan across the building, seeing the decay taking over. We pan out from the building, as Lukas Emery appears in the shot, with his back to the camera. He turns around to face the camera, a sinister grin on his face.)
Lukas Emery: I’m sure you were expecting some sort of proud statement from Laura Phoenix, but we are going to start things off a bit differently this week.you see the last show we had, I came on here and said some rather volatile things about the O’Neil/Madison family. Yet...the only one who seemed to take notice was a nick himself. That’s all well and good, I suppose, just not exactly the response I was expecting.
(Lukas starts stepping towards the camera.)
Lukas Emery: Nick wants to surround himself with his friends and family...he wants to think he’s invincible...well, you can have your family, but allow me to bring mine in….
(Lukas smirks, as the silence is then pierced by the all familiar cackle, as strolling onto the scene, standing beside Lukas, is the Reverend Synister.)
Reverend Synister: Ohhhh my children...things are about to get...Very interesting.
Lukas Emery: Pay attention Madisons. You won’t want to miss this.
(The scene cuts away with the two looking at the camera with stoic gazed of sinister.)
Dawn Warren vs Stacy O’Brian
(This match was an impressive debut for Warren, as she controlled the match against O’Brian. it was clear the Pink Puppy knew what she was doing in the ring. There was some good back and forth, before Warren locked in the Fox’s Awakeming and got the tap out victory.)
Winner: Dawn Warren
(The camera cuts backstage, to Laura Phoenix’s office. We see her sitting at her desk. She looks obviously a bit frustrated with how the show started.)
Laura Phoenix: I could talk about spineless cowards, but I’ll let my husband deal with that at Destiny.
(Her expression changes to one of joy, as she flashes a smile.)
Laura Phoenix; For now, I want to introduce you all to the new General Manager of PWS:APEX, PWS Hall of Famer, Josiah Cena!
(The camera zooms out, as we see Josiah Cena standing next to Laura’s desk.)
Josiah Cena: Thanks Laura, it’s great to be back in the PWS family, and ive brought along my own family. My wife Skylar, and daughter Arianna are here, currently keeping baby Aaron company.
(Laura and Josiah both laugh.)
Laura Phoenix: Best of luck to them.
Josiah Cena Oh I’m sure Ari is loving it. She’s always asking about him.
Laura Phoenix: That’s adorable. But now that we’ve made the official announcement, I have some business to tend to. We’ll go to commercial and we will be right back.
(The show goes to commercial break.)
(Rev Theory’s “Hell Yeah” blares over the sound system as Laura Phoenix steps out onto the stage.)
JR Freeman: Well there she is, the head of Apex, the one and only Laura Phoenix.
Alf: And in case you missed it, she personally invited our Collateral Damage Champion, Heather Haze to join her out here tonight.
JR: One’s gotta wonder why though?
(Laura steps into the ring and takes a microphone from the ringside attendant.)
Laura Phoenix: Good evening everyone. So last week when the show was announced it was made pretty clear to me that we have a few disgruntled issues going on and a lot of backlash on those that carry the same last name as I do. Now, I know there have been issues between my daughter and Heather Haze and I need to get this situation settled NOW. So if she would be so kind, I would like to invite the Collateral Damage Champion Heather Haze out here so we can settle this.
(Willa Ford’s “I Wanna Be Bad” plays as Heather Haze walks out onto the stage with the Collateral Damage title over her shoulder and makes her way to the ring. She steps in and Laura holds out her hand for a shake and Haze cautiously accepts it.)
Laura Phoenix: Heather, first I wanted to thank you for joining me out here tonight and I understand that you were a bit hesitant at first, which I get but let me be the first to say that as you stand here the CD champion, you are an amazing talent to the roster here. You wouldn’t be a champion right now if you weren’t. And I know things right now are very emotional, the whole world being insane right now, we are trying to make heads and tails of the regime change, our tour being completely put on hold but thankful for every moment we get here in Las Vegas thanks to the generosity of some amazing friends.
Heather Haze: I apprecia-
(Suddenly Heather’s mic cuts out.)
Laura Phoenix: Apparently though we’re not without bugs in the system. Can we get Heather a new microphone, please?
(Stage hand comes to ringside and hands Haze a microphone and she taps on it a few times to make sure it works before bringing it up.)
Heather Haze: Well, I do appreciate that, Ms. Phoenix. But I mean how can I really trus-
(Suddenly the microphone cuts out again and Heather looks a bit flustered.)
Laura Phoenix: Well...damn, I am so sorry about this Heather. Looks like we got some technical difficulties going on but let’s just cut right to the chase, shall we? You were about to say how can you trust me, seeing as my grown adult daughter is off to make your life pretty much a living hell since this whole...tiff began with you two at the beginning of the year. Course, I’m not blind to the situation, she hasn’t helped things in the recent weeks where you pretty much started this entire situation to begin with.
(Haze looks a bit pissed off at that.)
Laura Phoenix: Save it for church, because you can go and play little Miss Innocent on Twitter to people who don’t watch us but those that do know better. You have done just about everything to get under my daughter’s skin and under Alanah’s skin and I’m not going to protect them from you...in fact, I’m going to let you prove your point. And no, it’s not going to be a 2-on-1 because I’m not that evil, even though accusing me of playing sides brings out something that you really don’t want a first hand witness too...
(Laura steps up to Haze and looks her dead in the eyes.)
Laura Phoenix: You remind me a lot of me back in the day, not the clothes or your history but your determination. Maybe that’s why it seems like you girls don’t get along too well because you both have that same killer drive. So let me get to my point of bringing you out here. Next Riot, it’s a big one. It’s the final show before our biggest show of the year, Destiny. You are going to get a chance to prove yourself and all that bravado you’ve been swinging around here. You are going to be in a match, a match where IF there is any interference from any party the consequences are going to be just and swift because I’m just that kind of bitch. And your opponent has equal consequences, just to show you I am a fair and honest boss. Would you like to know who you are facing?
Heather Haze: Get on with it!!!
(Laura points to the stage as New Years Day “Shut Up” blares as Bella Madison steps out on the stage and waves to Haze. Laura smirks and turns to Haze one last time.)
Laura Phoenix: Good luck ladies, and may the best woman win.
(Rev Theory’s “Hell Yeah” plays as Laura slides out of the ring as Haze and Bella stare at each other)
JR Freeman: And there you have it, next Riot we finally get Heather Haze vs. Bella Madison and if things get way out of hand...consequences will happen!
Miles Kasey vs Miss Puppies
(This was another great showing from Miles, as he and Puppies tote it down. The fight was filled with high impact moves from Puppies, and high velocity moves from Miles. There were several near falls from both competitors, but in the end, the finish came when Miles was able to escape from an attempted Cherrybomb, and countered it into the Blast from
The Past for the win. Even in defeat, it was said that Puppies looked impressive, as the match got a nice reaction from the live crowd.)
Winner: Miles Kasey
(The cameras cut to the backstage area, showing a smiling Claire Anderson with microphone in hand. When she’s given her cue, she raises the microphone to her face and begins to speak.)
Claire Anderson: Ladies and gentlemen, my guest at this time...Richard Rider.
(Right on cue, “Hollywood” Richard Rider comes swaggering into the shot, sunglasses on his face and wearing his ostentatious coat...of course, with no shirt on underneath. He lowers his sunglasses to the end of his nose and gives Claire a long, slow once over while grinning lasciviously.)
Claire Anderson: Richard, two weeks ago on Riot, you stormed the ring and viciously attacked Bella Madison with a steel chair, causing her to win via disqualification.
(She gestured to the screen set up behind them, where a video clip replayed the attack from the previous edition of Riot. When the camera comes back to them, Rider has a smug grin on his face.)
Claire Anderson: The only question is...why?
Richard Rider: Why? I think the real question is why not? That little tart thinks she can steal my spotlight just because she’s some spoiled little -
(A whistle from off-screen drew Rider’s attention, and he turned around...only to be blindsided by a straight right from an irate Malachi! Claire quickly got out of the way as Rider dropped like a stone to the floor, before the furious Irishman proceeded to lay into him with solid kicks to his midsection.)
Malachi: YOU STUPID SON OF A BITCH! You wanna cheap shot MY girl?
(Rider eventually climbed to his feet and started throwing punches of his own, and soon the two men were in an all-out slugfest that lasted only a few moments before the security team rushed in to separate the two.)
Malachi: GET THE HELL OFF ME! I’M GONNA WRING THAT SHITHEEL’S NECK!
Richard Rider: BRING IT, POTATO SUCKER!
(Malachi managed to get free, launched himself over three men and clocked Rider in the side of the face before security wrestled them apart again, dragging the two men down the hallway in opposite directions while they still screamed obscenities at each other.)
(He was so caught up in his own mind that he didn’t hear the footsteps approaching, until they were almost behind him. When he felt another presence, he immediately jumped to his feet, whirling around and brandishing his knife.)
Mack McKane: Alright mate, that’s just about far enough.
(The camera pulled back to see a taller man standing a few feet behind Mack, impeccably dressed in a well-tailored suit. Looking to be in his early fifties, with deep brown hair dashed with some silver at the temples and dark brown eyes, he held his hands up with his palms towards Mack.)
Man: No need for the hostilities. I know who you are, and I know why you’re here.
Mack McKane: That so?
Man: Yes. My daughter talks about you quite a bit, Mr. McKane.
(Mack was quiet for a moment, but he finally put his knife away. The man slowly took a few steps closer to Mack, extending his hand for a handshake.)
Man: Charles Cormier. I think you and I should have a talk.
-AFTER THE CAMERAS CUT-
(Mack shudders a little bit at the man’s approach...was he for real? But there was something about him...he had only seen him in old pictures but after a moment...he realizes he is who he says he is. As Charles reaches for the handshake, Mack absolutely breaks down shaking his head and falls to his knees.)
Mack McKane: I can’t shake your hand, sir...if anything, I think I’d prefer you strike me. Strike hard, strike true, strike as much as you want. I failed you...but most of all...I failed HER. I promised...I promised her I’d never let anything happen to her and those BASTARDS…
(Mack actually begins wiping tears from his eyes.)
Mack McKane: She...she’s all alone...she must be so scared. She must be looking at the sky wondering, praying that I’m not a liar...and those...those SNAKES...I swear to God if they lay one finger on her...I...I’m sorry sir...I’m so, so sorry!
(Charles’ face reflects compassion towards Mack...he can see how hard the man his little girl chose is taking her absence and instead of striking him as Mack wished...he kneels slightly and picks Mack back up to his feet as he keeps his hands on his arms.)
Charles Cormier: Perhaps it’s better if we move this meeting inside.
(Charles begins to gently lead Mack out of the cemetery, but before they round the corner to the main walkway, he looks back fondly at the mausoleum with a bit of a sad smile before turning around and walking with Mack out of the front gates.)
(Some time later, we see the two men in a spacious office overlooking the Latin Quarter of New Orleans. It’s decorated in dark wood furniture, with floor to ceiling windows affording an unobstructed view of the street below. Sitting on a leather couch against the wall, Mack looks around at the walls, noticing the various paintings decorating their surfaces. Charles is leaning against the edge of his desk, his suit jacket gone and his shirt sleeves rolled up to his elbows as he calmly waits for Mack to speak.)
Mack McKane: ...d’you know it’s funny...I always thought I appreciated every piece of art she ever created...but seeing them without her beauty standing nearby to steal away from them...she really is the most remarkable woman I’ve ever met....But the others you’ve got...I”m unfamiliar with the style. But they’re brilliant. And yet beholding her soul laid bare on canvas...all I can do is haunt myself with the knowledge...I failed her...I failed you...I was...I was supposed to be stronger...I’m so sorry.
(Charles glances around to all the art hanging on his walls, with a small smile on his face.)
Charles Cormier: I was incredibly lucky to get some of these pieces. Apparently, Mattie is quite the star in the art world. There was quite the bidding war for a few of them. I imagine she inherited the talent from her mother. Paola did a few of these pieces as well.
(He stood up from the desk and walked over to sit himself on the chair in front of Mack, leaning his forearms on his knees and looking the young man in the eyes with a stern face.)
Charles Cormier: Now, I want you to listen closely to me, son. You did not fail her. No one could have predicted the way things could have gone. And I’m sure that even if Mattie could, she would still have chosen to be with you. Did you know, there’s not a conversation that we’ve had where you don’t get mentioned?
Mack McKane: ...bit of what I’m afraid of, innit? *Mack chuckles uncomfortably* Sir, I can’t...begin to tell you where I come from. I can’t begin to burden you with my life story. But I just need you to know...if it comes down to it...I WILL die for her. She found me at my lowest...sleeping in condemned warehouses, living with rats...and she saw something in me. For whatever reason...that angel chose me. And...she makes me...better. So I swear to you...I WILL...find her.
Charles Cormier: Yes, that certainly sounds like her. She has always been able to see the best in people...even when they don’t always realize it themselves.
(Charles stood back up and walked to the window, staring down at the empty streets for a quiet moment.)
Charles Cormier: Something that I have always tried to instill in her...no matter what the world may think, you need to do what makes your heart happy. When I married, it wasn’t for love. That just isn’t done in our circle of society. Joelle was the daughter of a business partner of my fathers. We grew up together...from a societal standpoint, it made sense. Now, don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against Joelle. She’s a fine woman. But...there was never any love. I married her out of a sense of duty to my father.
(He turned away from the window to look back at Mack.)
Charles Cormier: I never wanted that for Mattie. I knew that a life like that would crush her incredible spirit, and I could never subject her to that. So, when Everett started pursuing her, it caught me off-guard. I was certain he was interested in my other daughter, Avery. I think a part of Mattie wanted to resist, but she didn’t want to disappoint me, so she resigned herself to her fate. But, as luck would have it, she was accepted to school in New York. I had hoped that being there would allow her the freedom to make her own choices. To be able to live her own life, on her own terms.
(Charles walked back to the chair and sat down again, smiling warmly at Mack.)
Charles Cormier: I have no doubts in my mind that you are doing everything you can to find her, and I have all the faith in the world in you. But I think you may be underestimating my daughter’s spirit.
Mack McKane: ...you may be right. I know how strong she is and I know what she can go through. With respect sir, I met your...lovely wife...and I’m certain you can guess she didn’t care for me. And I’m afraid I didn’t help matters between her and Mattie. But one thing is for certain...Everett Jacobs...is walking the thinnest line you could ever imagine. Did she tell you? About him locking himself in a room with her while I was working? He has run from me...on every occasion but he is a problem I DO intend to remedy soon. I am getting close...I’ve been attacked by a few “messengers” and I’m starting to learn the pattern. So I promise you...again...she WILL be found...she WILL be loved...and I will NEVER...let her out of my sight again. I...I love her that much...and until I knew her, I didn’t even know what that meant.
(Mack runs his hand along the armrest looking down at the mask in his lap...the last one she designed. He shakes off another wave of emotion until he suddenly shifts and looks Charles directly in the eye with the most ferocious glare he could muster.)
Mack McKane: I swear it, Sir.
(Mack stands up looking at the mask as he slides it back over his face. This causes Charles to give him kind of a warm smile.)
Charles Cormier: ...she made that...didn’t she?
Mack McKane: By hand...called it a passion project.
(Mack approaches Charles and for the first time...firmly shakes his outstretched hand.)
Mack McKane: I’ll be in touch.
Charles Cormier: Don’t be a stranger.
(WIth that Mack turns and saunters out of the office and he takes the stairs down to the ground floor...as soon as he exits the office...his phone rings. He checks the number...it’s Laura Phoenix.)
Mack McKane: Mrs. Boss Lady! To what do I owe the distinct pleasure?
Laura Phoenix: Mack I know you’re on the hunt to get Mattie back and...PLEASE believe we support you one hundred percent but...I’m afraid I have some bad news.
Mack McKane: ...alright then?
Laura Phoenix: The Board of Directors thinks you’ve been absent from too many shows and they’re...they’re demanding you’re at the next one...to defend the World Championship or else they’re going to force me to strip you of it.
Mack McKane: *Heavy sigh* Fuckin’ politic bollocks. Right then...I’ll be there.
Laura Phoenix: ...there’s something else you should know…
Mack McKane: ...this is just getting better an’ better, innit? Alright, love...what’s up?
Laura Phoenix: Levi Russow has personally hand-picked your opponent...he wants to make sure you’re completely ready for the war you’re gonna have to go to with Syn.
Mack McKane: Fookin’...aces. I’m certain it’s not that git lumberjack what randomly shows up from time to time, innit?
Laura Phoenix: ‘fraid not...but I can’t tell you who yet...surprise for the fans and all!
Mack McKane: So...to recap...I have to abandon my search for the love of my life...to come to an empty arena and fight only God knows what kind of behemoth...to placate a bunch of nutsack-wrinkly old white men and their bank accounts...and I don’t even get to know who it is to prepare?
Laura Phoenix: ...well when you put it that way…
Mack McKane: Y’know what? Fuck it. I’ll be there, love.
Laura Phoenix: ...you’re the best. Off the record? Whatever you need...one of us will find a way to provide.
Mack McKane: Cheers then, Ta.
(Mack hangs up the phone and bashes it against his forehead screaming in the middle of the street.)
Mack McKane: FUUUUUUUCKIN’ HELL!!!!!!!
(That being said...Mack calmly puts his mask back over his face, turns up the collar on his spiked duster, and takes off down the street as the few people on the sidewalk quickly switch sides to get out of his way as we go back to the arena.)
Lachlan Kane vs Juan Manuel Cabrera Jr.
(The match was action-packed and fast paced from the word go. Lachlan and Juan impressed the fans with a flurry of fast paced offense and counters. There were a few near falls, but the finish came when Lach hit a slingblade outta nowhere, and followed it up with the Lach-Down for the 123!)
Winner: Lachlan Kane
(The filmed segment with Mack McKane has just finished playing in the Russow locker room as Jack Russow sits with his head in his hand shaking his head looking rather pissed. Alanah O’Connell sits beside him and even she lets out a sigh of exasperation.)
Jack Russow: ...I should have been there for that. He MET...her DAD...ALONE.
Alanah O’Connell: But they seemed to hit it off okay!
Jack Russow: That’s not the point, babe! I call him my brother...I call him my best friend and I haven’t been there for ANY of this! And for WHAT!? The Roulette Championship? My own vainglorious greed?
Alanah O’Connell: Darling, when he needs us...he’ll call.
Jack Russow: And what was that phone call about!? They’re making him defend and they’re not even telling him against WHO!? And DAD picked the opponent!? Since when does DAD have a sa-...oh my God.
Alanah O’Connell: ...what? What’s wrong?
Jack Russow: ...come with me.
(Jack suddenly darts off the couch pulling Alanah up with him as they fling the door open and stomp down to the Office once inhabited by Eddie Lopez that has been standing empty since his abrupt departure as Jack jiggles the handle and then FLINGS the door open.)
Jack Russow: I SHOULD...have FUCKING...KNOWN.
(Jumping out of his skin almost dropping his phone he was playing a game on bounces up the familiar features of the once Iceman, Levi Russow.)
Levi Russow: YOUNGBLOOD! Don’t you knock!?
Jack Russow: Do YOU ever?
Levi Russow: ...point taken. Listen bud, I can explain…
Jack Russow: You SAID...you were DONE with this business...for GOOD.
Levi Russow: Yeeeeah but like...are ya ever REALLY gone?
Jack Russow: You are un-fucking-believable.
Levi Russow: Look kid...Laura called me up and she said she was up shit creek without a paddle. They left her to run this shit by herself so she called in some cavalry! It’s only part time, it is NOT...that BIG...of a DEAL.
Jack Russow: Not that big a deal? NOT THAT FUCKING BIG OF A DEAL!? What the fuck is this about you making Mack show up at the next show to defend his belt against someone you WON’T EVEN TELL HIM ABOUT!?
Levi Russow: Ah...right...that…
Jack Russow: DaaaaaaaAAAAAAAD!!!
Levi Russow: ...see what had HAPPENED was…
Jack Russow: *Screams in complete rage* I should have been there for him this whole time...I should be there for him NOW but I’m HERE. PROBABLY...by YOUR doing!!!
Levi Russow: ...look, it’s been awhile since you competed in a PWS ring!
Jack Russow: And NOW? Moondust’s blood is on YOUR hands. You want a fuckin’ show, old man!? I’M YOUR FUCKIN’ HUCKLEBERRY!!!
(Jack turns and sees Alanah looking a little upset as he gently pulls her in and plants the slowest, most sensuous kiss on her that he can...the kind where, when he pulled away, she was still trying to kiss him and had to catch her breath.)
Jack Russow: I’ll be right back. Start the timer.
(With that Jack turns to glare at his father who’s just looking at him with his eyebrows raised like ‘well? Go show me then!’ as Jack turns and heads towards the arena.)
Jack Russow vs Moondust
(Jack was on fire the whole match. He was visibly pissed off and it showed in his systematic destruction of Moondust. Jack hit move after move, with Moondust mounting somewhat of a comeback, but it proves to be futile, as Jack hit the November Pain for the win.)
Winner: Jack Russow
(The cameras come back from commercial and cut to the ring where there was a table in the middle, with chairs on each side. There was a clipboard with 2 pens next to it on the table. In the ring stood Alf with a mic.)
Alf: Ladies and Gentlemen, we are about to sign the contract to make the Demon’s Run rematch between Alexis Makarios and David Shane final for Destiny. Please welcome first… she is the First, and longest reigning, PWS:APEX World Champion… ALEXIS MAKARIOS!
(“MZ HYDE” by Halestorm echoed through the arena as Alexis came out to the ring. She got in the ring and sat in one of the chairs, propping her feet up on the table.)
Alf: And now, please welcome, PWS:APEX Co-founder and Co-owner and CEO … DAVID SHANE
("Adrenaline" by Shinedown blares in the arena, David comes out from the back with a grin on his face. Making his way into the ring, he shakes hands with Alf then takes his place across from Alexis.)
Alf: I guess I’ll let you…
David Shane: we'll go ahead and make this quick seeing as you have a match, and Daniel apparently can't wait a few more weeks for you to kick his ass.
Alexis Makarios: Yeah… he has some strange obsession with wanting to fight me. It’s ok, I’ll handle that later. Right now, we got this contract to sign. I assume you had the
lawyers write it up all good for us?
David Shane: Of course.
Alexis Makarios: And those couple little clauses we discussed are in there?
David Shane: Of course. Singles match, pinfall or submission only.
Alexis Makarios: And any interference or attempt thereof…
David Shane: Will be dealt SEVERE disciplinary action.
(He looked towards the back and spoke a little louder)
David Shane: LOOKING AT YOU, RUSSOW!
(He looked back at Alexis.)
David Shane: And I even had a little extra clause added… if you wanna look on page 3, paragraph 4.
(She squinted a little towards him as she picked up the clipboard and flipped to page 3. She then started to chuckle a bit.)
Alexis Makarios: Loser buys the winner snacks and beverages at every show for a year?
(David grinned)
David Shane: Hey, be lucky I opted for that. I was gonna say loser washes Eddie’s gym socks for a month but that is a punishment worse than death.
Alexis Makarios: I’ve worked out with the man… that is an accurate statement.
(Before either of them could officially sign the contract, "Centuries" by Fall Out Boy plays as out walks Daniel Russow with a mic in hand)
Daniel Russow: Would you two stop squawking for one damn minute. There’s only so much time in the show, and you two idiots are just out here bullshitting away time that could be used for better things. Like our match… which I’d actually like to get to… if you ladies can pull yourselves away from your gossip hour.
(David picking up his pen, then looking towards Daniel.)
David Shane: Ah, there's the Russow...that brings things back to the status quo...shall we?
(David signs the contract. He slides it over to Alexis who signs it.)
Alexis Makarios: There. Now you can quit your bitching. But ya know, David, since you are already out here, why don’t you stay and commentate my match tonight?
David Shane: I’d love to. I mean, I did come ALL the way down here from the back. Might as well provide a little quality commentary… Let’s get some stagehands down here to clear the ring.
(As it on cue, a couple of stagehands come down to the ring, clearing it as David leaves and heads up o the commentary desk. Daniel gets in the ring, as a referee slides in. The bell sounds, and Daniel and Alexis square off.)
Main Event
Daniel Russow vs Alexis Makarios
JR Freeman: Here we go with our main event, as Alf and I are joined at the desk by David Shane.
David Shane: PWS:APEX Co-Founder and Co-Owner…
JR Freeman: What?
Alf: His introduction…
JR Freeman: Oh, for the love of...there’s a match starting!
David Shane: I know someone getting a paycut.
JR Freeman: What?
David Shane: I’m just messing with ya.
(In the ring, Dan waists no time, going right after Alexis, as the two exchange right hand shots. Dan sends Alexis to the ropes, and goes for a clothesline, ur she ducks under. She rebounds off the ropes and goes for a clothesline of her own, but this time Daniel ducks under. Alexis stops and turns, but eats a boot to the face from Daniel.)
David Shane: That’ll leave a mark…
(Daniel gets Alexis to her feet, and brings her over to the corner. He sends her to the opposite corner with an Irish whip, as she collapses after the impact. As Alexis is starting to pick herself up, Daniel charges and delivers a basement dropkick. The impact causes Alexis to roll out of the ring, right in front of the announce desk.)
David Shane: Guess she needed a breather.
Alf: Well she better-
JR Freeman: Watch out!
(Just then, as Alexis is bracing herself against the announce desk, Dan comes flying out of the ring with a suicide dive. Though, Alexis moves at the last second, and Daniel crashes into the desk.)
David Shane: And that’s why Russows don’t fly.
(Daniel rolls around on the floor, writhing in pain, as Alexis smirks. She looks at the announce desk, then at Daniel. She starts clearing off the table, before getting Daniel to his feet, and rolling him on the table.)
Alf: What’s she got in mind here?
JR Freeman: It can’t be good.
David Shane: No, it’s gonna be great!
(Alexis rolls back in the ring, and climbs the turnbuckle. Before she can jump off, though, Daniel rolls off the table, stumbling back to his feet. Alexis shrugs, and jumps off the turnbuckle, going for a cross body, but this time Daniel side steps, and Alexis crashes to the floor. Inside the ring, the ref begins the count, as both competitors are on the outside.)
1…
2…
(Instead of bringing things back in the ring to break the count, Daniel starts stomping on Alexis. Alexis manages to fight him off and get back to her feet, as the two start exchanging right hand shots.)
3…
4…
David Shane: Get it back in the ring guys…
JR Freeman: I don’t think they care to…
(The two keep brawling on the outside, trading shots.)
5…
6…
(Alexis takes Daniel’a head and smacks it off the announce table. She goes for a jumping ddt, but Daniel counters it’s into a vicious spine buster through the announce desk!)
7…
8…
(Daniel stumbles, shaking his head, as he’s yelling at Alexis.)
9…
David Shane: Get back in the ring!
(Daniel looks up at David and, without hesitation, flips him off.)
10!!!
(The bell sounds, as Daniel oooks down at Alexis, then shrugs and walks away, as Alexis gets back to her feet.)
JR Freeman: Soooo…
David Shane: Typical Russow.
Alf: Not how I saw this one ending.
JR Freeman: You and me both, partner. We have to take a quick commercial break, but when we come back, I’m being told we are going to hear from Nick Madison regarding his match at Destiny against Lukas Emery, which was made official over social media this past week.
(The show goes to commercial with Alexis looking visibly frustrated.)
Winner: Double Count Out
Commercial Break
(“Critical Acclaim” by Avenged Sevenfold begins to play over the sound system, as Nick Madison walks out onto the stage. He doesn’t do his usual pose or anything, no smoke comes out. Instead he just walks out and makes his way to the ring. He goes straight to grabbing a mic before sliding into the ring.)
Nick Madison: Cut my music…
(The music fades out. Nick walks around the ring for a moment.)
Nick Madison; So, it’s official now. I have a match against Lukas Emery at Destiny. Yet again, I’m here, standing in the ring...and just where the hell you at Lukas? You like to run your mouth, but then you hide like the bitch you ar-
(Suddenly, the audio from Nick’s mic gets cut, and the tron powers down. The silence is then broken by the sounds of Alex Kingston’s voice from the opening of Demon’s Run, but it’s a bit distorted.)
“Demon’s rum...when a good man goes to war…
(Smoke starts to fill the screen, as Nick looks on bewildered.)
Demon’s rum...but count the cost. The battle is won…
(The bone chilling laughter of Reverend Synister can be heard echoing throughout the arena, as the distorted voice morphs into that of Lukas Emery.)
Lukas Emery:...but the child...is lost.
(The silence is then pierced by the shrieking scream of a little girl, as the tron illuminated with a shot backstage, as we see Josiah Cena frantically running down the hall.)
Josiah Cena: Ari!? Ari!
(Josiah reaches his daughter, as she’s crying frantically. He runs into the room she’s standing in front of, and starts yelling for his wife.)
Josiah Cena: Skylar!? Where are you!?
(Little Arianna points to a closet door that has been barricaded by a couch. Josiah runs over and slings the couch out of the way, then goes to open the door, and ends up ripping it from its hinges. Inside he finds a frantic Skylar, as she’s crying as well.)
Skylar Cena: Nick and Laura? Where are they?
Josiah Cena: Laura is on her way. What’s wrong?
Skylar Cena: He took him...He took Aaron…
Josiah Cena: What?
Skylar Cena: Lukas...he took Aaron…
(It’s at this time Josiah turns around to notice, written on the wall in thick red, almost blood-like paint, are four simple words, as the camera focuses in.)
“The child is lost.”
(Laura Phoenix runs into the room and stops dead in her tracks when she sees the words on the wall.)
Laura Phoenix: Aaron? Aaron!?
(She starts frantically looking for her son, as Skylar cries.)
Skylar Cena: I’m so sorry, Laura…
(The camera catches a shot of Laura’s face, stricken with fear, as tears are now running down her face. The camera cuts back to the ring, as Nick stands there, processing what all he just saw. He drops the mic and leaves the ring quickly, tears forming in his eyes, as the PWS Apex logo flashes, before the screen fades to black.)
(c) PWS: Apex 2020
Lukas Emery: I’m sure you were expecting some sort of proud statement from Laura Phoenix, but we are going to start things off a bit differently this week.you see the last show we had, I came on here and said some rather volatile things about the O’Neil/Madison family. Yet...the only one who seemed to take notice was a nick himself. That’s all well and good, I suppose, just not exactly the response I was expecting.
(Lukas starts stepping towards the camera.)
Lukas Emery: Nick wants to surround himself with his friends and family...he wants to think he’s invincible...well, you can have your family, but allow me to bring mine in….
(Lukas smirks, as the silence is then pierced by the all familiar cackle, as strolling onto the scene, standing beside Lukas, is the Reverend Synister.)
Reverend Synister: Ohhhh my children...things are about to get...Very interesting.
Lukas Emery: Pay attention Madisons. You won’t want to miss this.
(The scene cuts away with the two looking at the camera with stoic gazed of sinister.)
Dawn Warren vs Stacy O’Brian
(This match was an impressive debut for Warren, as she controlled the match against O’Brian. it was clear the Pink Puppy knew what she was doing in the ring. There was some good back and forth, before Warren locked in the Fox’s Awakeming and got the tap out victory.)
Winner: Dawn Warren
(The camera cuts backstage, to Laura Phoenix’s office. We see her sitting at her desk. She looks obviously a bit frustrated with how the show started.)
Laura Phoenix: I could talk about spineless cowards, but I’ll let my husband deal with that at Destiny.
(Her expression changes to one of joy, as she flashes a smile.)
Laura Phoenix; For now, I want to introduce you all to the new General Manager of PWS:APEX, PWS Hall of Famer, Josiah Cena!
(The camera zooms out, as we see Josiah Cena standing next to Laura’s desk.)
Josiah Cena: Thanks Laura, it’s great to be back in the PWS family, and ive brought along my own family. My wife Skylar, and daughter Arianna are here, currently keeping baby Aaron company.
(Laura and Josiah both laugh.)
Laura Phoenix: Best of luck to them.
Josiah Cena Oh I’m sure Ari is loving it. She’s always asking about him.
Laura Phoenix: That’s adorable. But now that we’ve made the official announcement, I have some business to tend to. We’ll go to commercial and we will be right back.
(The show goes to commercial break.)
(Rev Theory’s “Hell Yeah” blares over the sound system as Laura Phoenix steps out onto the stage.)
JR Freeman: Well there she is, the head of Apex, the one and only Laura Phoenix.
Alf: And in case you missed it, she personally invited our Collateral Damage Champion, Heather Haze to join her out here tonight.
JR: One’s gotta wonder why though?
(Laura steps into the ring and takes a microphone from the ringside attendant.)
Laura Phoenix: Good evening everyone. So last week when the show was announced it was made pretty clear to me that we have a few disgruntled issues going on and a lot of backlash on those that carry the same last name as I do. Now, I know there have been issues between my daughter and Heather Haze and I need to get this situation settled NOW. So if she would be so kind, I would like to invite the Collateral Damage Champion Heather Haze out here so we can settle this.
(Willa Ford’s “I Wanna Be Bad” plays as Heather Haze walks out onto the stage with the Collateral Damage title over her shoulder and makes her way to the ring. She steps in and Laura holds out her hand for a shake and Haze cautiously accepts it.)
Laura Phoenix: Heather, first I wanted to thank you for joining me out here tonight and I understand that you were a bit hesitant at first, which I get but let me be the first to say that as you stand here the CD champion, you are an amazing talent to the roster here. You wouldn’t be a champion right now if you weren’t. And I know things right now are very emotional, the whole world being insane right now, we are trying to make heads and tails of the regime change, our tour being completely put on hold but thankful for every moment we get here in Las Vegas thanks to the generosity of some amazing friends.
Heather Haze: I apprecia-
(Suddenly Heather’s mic cuts out.)
Laura Phoenix: Apparently though we’re not without bugs in the system. Can we get Heather a new microphone, please?
(Stage hand comes to ringside and hands Haze a microphone and she taps on it a few times to make sure it works before bringing it up.)
Heather Haze: Well, I do appreciate that, Ms. Phoenix. But I mean how can I really trus-
(Suddenly the microphone cuts out again and Heather looks a bit flustered.)
Laura Phoenix: Well...damn, I am so sorry about this Heather. Looks like we got some technical difficulties going on but let’s just cut right to the chase, shall we? You were about to say how can you trust me, seeing as my grown adult daughter is off to make your life pretty much a living hell since this whole...tiff began with you two at the beginning of the year. Course, I’m not blind to the situation, she hasn’t helped things in the recent weeks where you pretty much started this entire situation to begin with.
(Haze looks a bit pissed off at that.)
Laura Phoenix: Save it for church, because you can go and play little Miss Innocent on Twitter to people who don’t watch us but those that do know better. You have done just about everything to get under my daughter’s skin and under Alanah’s skin and I’m not going to protect them from you...in fact, I’m going to let you prove your point. And no, it’s not going to be a 2-on-1 because I’m not that evil, even though accusing me of playing sides brings out something that you really don’t want a first hand witness too...
(Laura steps up to Haze and looks her dead in the eyes.)
Laura Phoenix: You remind me a lot of me back in the day, not the clothes or your history but your determination. Maybe that’s why it seems like you girls don’t get along too well because you both have that same killer drive. So let me get to my point of bringing you out here. Next Riot, it’s a big one. It’s the final show before our biggest show of the year, Destiny. You are going to get a chance to prove yourself and all that bravado you’ve been swinging around here. You are going to be in a match, a match where IF there is any interference from any party the consequences are going to be just and swift because I’m just that kind of bitch. And your opponent has equal consequences, just to show you I am a fair and honest boss. Would you like to know who you are facing?
Heather Haze: Get on with it!!!
(Laura points to the stage as New Years Day “Shut Up” blares as Bella Madison steps out on the stage and waves to Haze. Laura smirks and turns to Haze one last time.)
Laura Phoenix: Good luck ladies, and may the best woman win.
(Rev Theory’s “Hell Yeah” plays as Laura slides out of the ring as Haze and Bella stare at each other)
JR Freeman: And there you have it, next Riot we finally get Heather Haze vs. Bella Madison and if things get way out of hand...consequences will happen!
Miles Kasey vs Miss Puppies
(This was another great showing from Miles, as he and Puppies tote it down. The fight was filled with high impact moves from Puppies, and high velocity moves from Miles. There were several near falls from both competitors, but in the end, the finish came when Miles was able to escape from an attempted Cherrybomb, and countered it into the Blast from
The Past for the win. Even in defeat, it was said that Puppies looked impressive, as the match got a nice reaction from the live crowd.)
Winner: Miles Kasey
(The cameras cut to the backstage area, showing a smiling Claire Anderson with microphone in hand. When she’s given her cue, she raises the microphone to her face and begins to speak.)
Claire Anderson: Ladies and gentlemen, my guest at this time...Richard Rider.
(Right on cue, “Hollywood” Richard Rider comes swaggering into the shot, sunglasses on his face and wearing his ostentatious coat...of course, with no shirt on underneath. He lowers his sunglasses to the end of his nose and gives Claire a long, slow once over while grinning lasciviously.)
Claire Anderson: Richard, two weeks ago on Riot, you stormed the ring and viciously attacked Bella Madison with a steel chair, causing her to win via disqualification.
(She gestured to the screen set up behind them, where a video clip replayed the attack from the previous edition of Riot. When the camera comes back to them, Rider has a smug grin on his face.)
Claire Anderson: The only question is...why?
Richard Rider: Why? I think the real question is why not? That little tart thinks she can steal my spotlight just because she’s some spoiled little -
(A whistle from off-screen drew Rider’s attention, and he turned around...only to be blindsided by a straight right from an irate Malachi! Claire quickly got out of the way as Rider dropped like a stone to the floor, before the furious Irishman proceeded to lay into him with solid kicks to his midsection.)
Malachi: YOU STUPID SON OF A BITCH! You wanna cheap shot MY girl?
(Rider eventually climbed to his feet and started throwing punches of his own, and soon the two men were in an all-out slugfest that lasted only a few moments before the security team rushed in to separate the two.)
Malachi: GET THE HELL OFF ME! I’M GONNA WRING THAT SHITHEEL’S NECK!
Richard Rider: BRING IT, POTATO SUCKER!
(Malachi managed to get free, launched himself over three men and clocked Rider in the side of the face before security wrestled them apart again, dragging the two men down the hallway in opposite directions while they still screamed obscenities at each other.)
(He was so caught up in his own mind that he didn’t hear the footsteps approaching, until they were almost behind him. When he felt another presence, he immediately jumped to his feet, whirling around and brandishing his knife.)
Mack McKane: Alright mate, that’s just about far enough.
(The camera pulled back to see a taller man standing a few feet behind Mack, impeccably dressed in a well-tailored suit. Looking to be in his early fifties, with deep brown hair dashed with some silver at the temples and dark brown eyes, he held his hands up with his palms towards Mack.)
Man: No need for the hostilities. I know who you are, and I know why you’re here.
Mack McKane: That so?
Man: Yes. My daughter talks about you quite a bit, Mr. McKane.
(Mack was quiet for a moment, but he finally put his knife away. The man slowly took a few steps closer to Mack, extending his hand for a handshake.)
Man: Charles Cormier. I think you and I should have a talk.
-AFTER THE CAMERAS CUT-
(Mack shudders a little bit at the man’s approach...was he for real? But there was something about him...he had only seen him in old pictures but after a moment...he realizes he is who he says he is. As Charles reaches for the handshake, Mack absolutely breaks down shaking his head and falls to his knees.)
Mack McKane: I can’t shake your hand, sir...if anything, I think I’d prefer you strike me. Strike hard, strike true, strike as much as you want. I failed you...but most of all...I failed HER. I promised...I promised her I’d never let anything happen to her and those BASTARDS…
(Mack actually begins wiping tears from his eyes.)
Mack McKane: She...she’s all alone...she must be so scared. She must be looking at the sky wondering, praying that I’m not a liar...and those...those SNAKES...I swear to God if they lay one finger on her...I...I’m sorry sir...I’m so, so sorry!
(Charles’ face reflects compassion towards Mack...he can see how hard the man his little girl chose is taking her absence and instead of striking him as Mack wished...he kneels slightly and picks Mack back up to his feet as he keeps his hands on his arms.)
Charles Cormier: Perhaps it’s better if we move this meeting inside.
(Charles begins to gently lead Mack out of the cemetery, but before they round the corner to the main walkway, he looks back fondly at the mausoleum with a bit of a sad smile before turning around and walking with Mack out of the front gates.)
(Some time later, we see the two men in a spacious office overlooking the Latin Quarter of New Orleans. It’s decorated in dark wood furniture, with floor to ceiling windows affording an unobstructed view of the street below. Sitting on a leather couch against the wall, Mack looks around at the walls, noticing the various paintings decorating their surfaces. Charles is leaning against the edge of his desk, his suit jacket gone and his shirt sleeves rolled up to his elbows as he calmly waits for Mack to speak.)
Mack McKane: ...d’you know it’s funny...I always thought I appreciated every piece of art she ever created...but seeing them without her beauty standing nearby to steal away from them...she really is the most remarkable woman I’ve ever met....But the others you’ve got...I”m unfamiliar with the style. But they’re brilliant. And yet beholding her soul laid bare on canvas...all I can do is haunt myself with the knowledge...I failed her...I failed you...I was...I was supposed to be stronger...I’m so sorry.
(Charles glances around to all the art hanging on his walls, with a small smile on his face.)
Charles Cormier: I was incredibly lucky to get some of these pieces. Apparently, Mattie is quite the star in the art world. There was quite the bidding war for a few of them. I imagine she inherited the talent from her mother. Paola did a few of these pieces as well.
(He stood up from the desk and walked over to sit himself on the chair in front of Mack, leaning his forearms on his knees and looking the young man in the eyes with a stern face.)
Charles Cormier: Now, I want you to listen closely to me, son. You did not fail her. No one could have predicted the way things could have gone. And I’m sure that even if Mattie could, she would still have chosen to be with you. Did you know, there’s not a conversation that we’ve had where you don’t get mentioned?
Mack McKane: ...bit of what I’m afraid of, innit? *Mack chuckles uncomfortably* Sir, I can’t...begin to tell you where I come from. I can’t begin to burden you with my life story. But I just need you to know...if it comes down to it...I WILL die for her. She found me at my lowest...sleeping in condemned warehouses, living with rats...and she saw something in me. For whatever reason...that angel chose me. And...she makes me...better. So I swear to you...I WILL...find her.
Charles Cormier: Yes, that certainly sounds like her. She has always been able to see the best in people...even when they don’t always realize it themselves.
(Charles stood back up and walked to the window, staring down at the empty streets for a quiet moment.)
Charles Cormier: Something that I have always tried to instill in her...no matter what the world may think, you need to do what makes your heart happy. When I married, it wasn’t for love. That just isn’t done in our circle of society. Joelle was the daughter of a business partner of my fathers. We grew up together...from a societal standpoint, it made sense. Now, don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against Joelle. She’s a fine woman. But...there was never any love. I married her out of a sense of duty to my father.
(He turned away from the window to look back at Mack.)
Charles Cormier: I never wanted that for Mattie. I knew that a life like that would crush her incredible spirit, and I could never subject her to that. So, when Everett started pursuing her, it caught me off-guard. I was certain he was interested in my other daughter, Avery. I think a part of Mattie wanted to resist, but she didn’t want to disappoint me, so she resigned herself to her fate. But, as luck would have it, she was accepted to school in New York. I had hoped that being there would allow her the freedom to make her own choices. To be able to live her own life, on her own terms.
(Charles walked back to the chair and sat down again, smiling warmly at Mack.)
Charles Cormier: I have no doubts in my mind that you are doing everything you can to find her, and I have all the faith in the world in you. But I think you may be underestimating my daughter’s spirit.
Mack McKane: ...you may be right. I know how strong she is and I know what she can go through. With respect sir, I met your...lovely wife...and I’m certain you can guess she didn’t care for me. And I’m afraid I didn’t help matters between her and Mattie. But one thing is for certain...Everett Jacobs...is walking the thinnest line you could ever imagine. Did she tell you? About him locking himself in a room with her while I was working? He has run from me...on every occasion but he is a problem I DO intend to remedy soon. I am getting close...I’ve been attacked by a few “messengers” and I’m starting to learn the pattern. So I promise you...again...she WILL be found...she WILL be loved...and I will NEVER...let her out of my sight again. I...I love her that much...and until I knew her, I didn’t even know what that meant.
(Mack runs his hand along the armrest looking down at the mask in his lap...the last one she designed. He shakes off another wave of emotion until he suddenly shifts and looks Charles directly in the eye with the most ferocious glare he could muster.)
Mack McKane: I swear it, Sir.
(Mack stands up looking at the mask as he slides it back over his face. This causes Charles to give him kind of a warm smile.)
Charles Cormier: ...she made that...didn’t she?
Mack McKane: By hand...called it a passion project.
(Mack approaches Charles and for the first time...firmly shakes his outstretched hand.)
Mack McKane: I’ll be in touch.
Charles Cormier: Don’t be a stranger.
(WIth that Mack turns and saunters out of the office and he takes the stairs down to the ground floor...as soon as he exits the office...his phone rings. He checks the number...it’s Laura Phoenix.)
Mack McKane: Mrs. Boss Lady! To what do I owe the distinct pleasure?
Laura Phoenix: Mack I know you’re on the hunt to get Mattie back and...PLEASE believe we support you one hundred percent but...I’m afraid I have some bad news.
Mack McKane: ...alright then?
Laura Phoenix: The Board of Directors thinks you’ve been absent from too many shows and they’re...they’re demanding you’re at the next one...to defend the World Championship or else they’re going to force me to strip you of it.
Mack McKane: *Heavy sigh* Fuckin’ politic bollocks. Right then...I’ll be there.
Laura Phoenix: ...there’s something else you should know…
Mack McKane: ...this is just getting better an’ better, innit? Alright, love...what’s up?
Laura Phoenix: Levi Russow has personally hand-picked your opponent...he wants to make sure you’re completely ready for the war you’re gonna have to go to with Syn.
Mack McKane: Fookin’...aces. I’m certain it’s not that git lumberjack what randomly shows up from time to time, innit?
Laura Phoenix: ‘fraid not...but I can’t tell you who yet...surprise for the fans and all!
Mack McKane: So...to recap...I have to abandon my search for the love of my life...to come to an empty arena and fight only God knows what kind of behemoth...to placate a bunch of nutsack-wrinkly old white men and their bank accounts...and I don’t even get to know who it is to prepare?
Laura Phoenix: ...well when you put it that way…
Mack McKane: Y’know what? Fuck it. I’ll be there, love.
Laura Phoenix: ...you’re the best. Off the record? Whatever you need...one of us will find a way to provide.
Mack McKane: Cheers then, Ta.
(Mack hangs up the phone and bashes it against his forehead screaming in the middle of the street.)
Mack McKane: FUUUUUUUCKIN’ HELL!!!!!!!
(That being said...Mack calmly puts his mask back over his face, turns up the collar on his spiked duster, and takes off down the street as the few people on the sidewalk quickly switch sides to get out of his way as we go back to the arena.)
Lachlan Kane vs Juan Manuel Cabrera Jr.
(The match was action-packed and fast paced from the word go. Lachlan and Juan impressed the fans with a flurry of fast paced offense and counters. There were a few near falls, but the finish came when Lach hit a slingblade outta nowhere, and followed it up with the Lach-Down for the 123!)
Winner: Lachlan Kane
(The filmed segment with Mack McKane has just finished playing in the Russow locker room as Jack Russow sits with his head in his hand shaking his head looking rather pissed. Alanah O’Connell sits beside him and even she lets out a sigh of exasperation.)
Jack Russow: ...I should have been there for that. He MET...her DAD...ALONE.
Alanah O’Connell: But they seemed to hit it off okay!
Jack Russow: That’s not the point, babe! I call him my brother...I call him my best friend and I haven’t been there for ANY of this! And for WHAT!? The Roulette Championship? My own vainglorious greed?
Alanah O’Connell: Darling, when he needs us...he’ll call.
Jack Russow: And what was that phone call about!? They’re making him defend and they’re not even telling him against WHO!? And DAD picked the opponent!? Since when does DAD have a sa-...oh my God.
Alanah O’Connell: ...what? What’s wrong?
Jack Russow: ...come with me.
(Jack suddenly darts off the couch pulling Alanah up with him as they fling the door open and stomp down to the Office once inhabited by Eddie Lopez that has been standing empty since his abrupt departure as Jack jiggles the handle and then FLINGS the door open.)
Jack Russow: I SHOULD...have FUCKING...KNOWN.
(Jumping out of his skin almost dropping his phone he was playing a game on bounces up the familiar features of the once Iceman, Levi Russow.)
Levi Russow: YOUNGBLOOD! Don’t you knock!?
Jack Russow: Do YOU ever?
Levi Russow: ...point taken. Listen bud, I can explain…
Jack Russow: You SAID...you were DONE with this business...for GOOD.
Levi Russow: Yeeeeah but like...are ya ever REALLY gone?
Jack Russow: You are un-fucking-believable.
Levi Russow: Look kid...Laura called me up and she said she was up shit creek without a paddle. They left her to run this shit by herself so she called in some cavalry! It’s only part time, it is NOT...that BIG...of a DEAL.
Jack Russow: Not that big a deal? NOT THAT FUCKING BIG OF A DEAL!? What the fuck is this about you making Mack show up at the next show to defend his belt against someone you WON’T EVEN TELL HIM ABOUT!?
Levi Russow: Ah...right...that…
Jack Russow: DaaaaaaaAAAAAAAD!!!
Levi Russow: ...see what had HAPPENED was…
Jack Russow: *Screams in complete rage* I should have been there for him this whole time...I should be there for him NOW but I’m HERE. PROBABLY...by YOUR doing!!!
Levi Russow: ...look, it’s been awhile since you competed in a PWS ring!
Jack Russow: And NOW? Moondust’s blood is on YOUR hands. You want a fuckin’ show, old man!? I’M YOUR FUCKIN’ HUCKLEBERRY!!!
(Jack turns and sees Alanah looking a little upset as he gently pulls her in and plants the slowest, most sensuous kiss on her that he can...the kind where, when he pulled away, she was still trying to kiss him and had to catch her breath.)
Jack Russow: I’ll be right back. Start the timer.
(With that Jack turns to glare at his father who’s just looking at him with his eyebrows raised like ‘well? Go show me then!’ as Jack turns and heads towards the arena.)
Jack Russow vs Moondust
(Jack was on fire the whole match. He was visibly pissed off and it showed in his systematic destruction of Moondust. Jack hit move after move, with Moondust mounting somewhat of a comeback, but it proves to be futile, as Jack hit the November Pain for the win.)
Winner: Jack Russow
(The cameras come back from commercial and cut to the ring where there was a table in the middle, with chairs on each side. There was a clipboard with 2 pens next to it on the table. In the ring stood Alf with a mic.)
Alf: Ladies and Gentlemen, we are about to sign the contract to make the Demon’s Run rematch between Alexis Makarios and David Shane final for Destiny. Please welcome first… she is the First, and longest reigning, PWS:APEX World Champion… ALEXIS MAKARIOS!
(“MZ HYDE” by Halestorm echoed through the arena as Alexis came out to the ring. She got in the ring and sat in one of the chairs, propping her feet up on the table.)
Alf: And now, please welcome, PWS:APEX Co-founder and Co-owner and CEO … DAVID SHANE
("Adrenaline" by Shinedown blares in the arena, David comes out from the back with a grin on his face. Making his way into the ring, he shakes hands with Alf then takes his place across from Alexis.)
Alf: I guess I’ll let you…
David Shane: we'll go ahead and make this quick seeing as you have a match, and Daniel apparently can't wait a few more weeks for you to kick his ass.
Alexis Makarios: Yeah… he has some strange obsession with wanting to fight me. It’s ok, I’ll handle that later. Right now, we got this contract to sign. I assume you had the
lawyers write it up all good for us?
David Shane: Of course.
Alexis Makarios: And those couple little clauses we discussed are in there?
David Shane: Of course. Singles match, pinfall or submission only.
Alexis Makarios: And any interference or attempt thereof…
David Shane: Will be dealt SEVERE disciplinary action.
(He looked towards the back and spoke a little louder)
David Shane: LOOKING AT YOU, RUSSOW!
(He looked back at Alexis.)
David Shane: And I even had a little extra clause added… if you wanna look on page 3, paragraph 4.
(She squinted a little towards him as she picked up the clipboard and flipped to page 3. She then started to chuckle a bit.)
Alexis Makarios: Loser buys the winner snacks and beverages at every show for a year?
(David grinned)
David Shane: Hey, be lucky I opted for that. I was gonna say loser washes Eddie’s gym socks for a month but that is a punishment worse than death.
Alexis Makarios: I’ve worked out with the man… that is an accurate statement.
(Before either of them could officially sign the contract, "Centuries" by Fall Out Boy plays as out walks Daniel Russow with a mic in hand)
Daniel Russow: Would you two stop squawking for one damn minute. There’s only so much time in the show, and you two idiots are just out here bullshitting away time that could be used for better things. Like our match… which I’d actually like to get to… if you ladies can pull yourselves away from your gossip hour.
(David picking up his pen, then looking towards Daniel.)
David Shane: Ah, there's the Russow...that brings things back to the status quo...shall we?
(David signs the contract. He slides it over to Alexis who signs it.)
Alexis Makarios: There. Now you can quit your bitching. But ya know, David, since you are already out here, why don’t you stay and commentate my match tonight?
David Shane: I’d love to. I mean, I did come ALL the way down here from the back. Might as well provide a little quality commentary… Let’s get some stagehands down here to clear the ring.
(As it on cue, a couple of stagehands come down to the ring, clearing it as David leaves and heads up o the commentary desk. Daniel gets in the ring, as a referee slides in. The bell sounds, and Daniel and Alexis square off.)
Main Event
Daniel Russow vs Alexis Makarios
JR Freeman: Here we go with our main event, as Alf and I are joined at the desk by David Shane.
David Shane: PWS:APEX Co-Founder and Co-Owner…
JR Freeman: What?
Alf: His introduction…
JR Freeman: Oh, for the love of...there’s a match starting!
David Shane: I know someone getting a paycut.
JR Freeman: What?
David Shane: I’m just messing with ya.
(In the ring, Dan waists no time, going right after Alexis, as the two exchange right hand shots. Dan sends Alexis to the ropes, and goes for a clothesline, ur she ducks under. She rebounds off the ropes and goes for a clothesline of her own, but this time Daniel ducks under. Alexis stops and turns, but eats a boot to the face from Daniel.)
David Shane: That’ll leave a mark…
(Daniel gets Alexis to her feet, and brings her over to the corner. He sends her to the opposite corner with an Irish whip, as she collapses after the impact. As Alexis is starting to pick herself up, Daniel charges and delivers a basement dropkick. The impact causes Alexis to roll out of the ring, right in front of the announce desk.)
David Shane: Guess she needed a breather.
Alf: Well she better-
JR Freeman: Watch out!
(Just then, as Alexis is bracing herself against the announce desk, Dan comes flying out of the ring with a suicide dive. Though, Alexis moves at the last second, and Daniel crashes into the desk.)
David Shane: And that’s why Russows don’t fly.
(Daniel rolls around on the floor, writhing in pain, as Alexis smirks. She looks at the announce desk, then at Daniel. She starts clearing off the table, before getting Daniel to his feet, and rolling him on the table.)
Alf: What’s she got in mind here?
JR Freeman: It can’t be good.
David Shane: No, it’s gonna be great!
(Alexis rolls back in the ring, and climbs the turnbuckle. Before she can jump off, though, Daniel rolls off the table, stumbling back to his feet. Alexis shrugs, and jumps off the turnbuckle, going for a cross body, but this time Daniel side steps, and Alexis crashes to the floor. Inside the ring, the ref begins the count, as both competitors are on the outside.)
1…
2…
(Instead of bringing things back in the ring to break the count, Daniel starts stomping on Alexis. Alexis manages to fight him off and get back to her feet, as the two start exchanging right hand shots.)
3…
4…
David Shane: Get it back in the ring guys…
JR Freeman: I don’t think they care to…
(The two keep brawling on the outside, trading shots.)
5…
6…
(Alexis takes Daniel’a head and smacks it off the announce table. She goes for a jumping ddt, but Daniel counters it’s into a vicious spine buster through the announce desk!)
7…
8…
(Daniel stumbles, shaking his head, as he’s yelling at Alexis.)
9…
David Shane: Get back in the ring!
(Daniel looks up at David and, without hesitation, flips him off.)
10!!!
(The bell sounds, as Daniel oooks down at Alexis, then shrugs and walks away, as Alexis gets back to her feet.)
JR Freeman: Soooo…
David Shane: Typical Russow.
Alf: Not how I saw this one ending.
JR Freeman: You and me both, partner. We have to take a quick commercial break, but when we come back, I’m being told we are going to hear from Nick Madison regarding his match at Destiny against Lukas Emery, which was made official over social media this past week.
(The show goes to commercial with Alexis looking visibly frustrated.)
Winner: Double Count Out
Commercial Break
(“Critical Acclaim” by Avenged Sevenfold begins to play over the sound system, as Nick Madison walks out onto the stage. He doesn’t do his usual pose or anything, no smoke comes out. Instead he just walks out and makes his way to the ring. He goes straight to grabbing a mic before sliding into the ring.)
Nick Madison: Cut my music…
(The music fades out. Nick walks around the ring for a moment.)
Nick Madison; So, it’s official now. I have a match against Lukas Emery at Destiny. Yet again, I’m here, standing in the ring...and just where the hell you at Lukas? You like to run your mouth, but then you hide like the bitch you ar-
(Suddenly, the audio from Nick’s mic gets cut, and the tron powers down. The silence is then broken by the sounds of Alex Kingston’s voice from the opening of Demon’s Run, but it’s a bit distorted.)
“Demon’s rum...when a good man goes to war…
(Smoke starts to fill the screen, as Nick looks on bewildered.)
Demon’s rum...but count the cost. The battle is won…
(The bone chilling laughter of Reverend Synister can be heard echoing throughout the arena, as the distorted voice morphs into that of Lukas Emery.)
Lukas Emery:...but the child...is lost.
(The silence is then pierced by the shrieking scream of a little girl, as the tron illuminated with a shot backstage, as we see Josiah Cena frantically running down the hall.)
Josiah Cena: Ari!? Ari!
(Josiah reaches his daughter, as she’s crying frantically. He runs into the room she’s standing in front of, and starts yelling for his wife.)
Josiah Cena: Skylar!? Where are you!?
(Little Arianna points to a closet door that has been barricaded by a couch. Josiah runs over and slings the couch out of the way, then goes to open the door, and ends up ripping it from its hinges. Inside he finds a frantic Skylar, as she’s crying as well.)
Skylar Cena: Nick and Laura? Where are they?
Josiah Cena: Laura is on her way. What’s wrong?
Skylar Cena: He took him...He took Aaron…
Josiah Cena: What?
Skylar Cena: Lukas...he took Aaron…
(It’s at this time Josiah turns around to notice, written on the wall in thick red, almost blood-like paint, are four simple words, as the camera focuses in.)
“The child is lost.”
(Laura Phoenix runs into the room and stops dead in her tracks when she sees the words on the wall.)
Laura Phoenix: Aaron? Aaron!?
(She starts frantically looking for her son, as Skylar cries.)
Skylar Cena: I’m so sorry, Laura…
(The camera catches a shot of Laura’s face, stricken with fear, as tears are now running down her face. The camera cuts back to the ring, as Nick stands there, processing what all he just saw. He drops the mic and leaves the ring quickly, tears forming in his eyes, as the PWS Apex logo flashes, before the screen fades to black.)
(c) PWS: Apex 2020