OOWF MidWeek Mayhem/OOWF Invitational Round 2 (02/

[BookerShark]

OOWF MidWeek Mayhem/OOWF Invitational Round 2
Live! From Four Roads Junction, St. Lucia

OOWF World Heavyweight Title Match[/u]
Stan Fulton vs. Comrade Sharkoff

OOWF Invitational Round 2[/u]
Chris Evans vs. Ghosthead
Matt Folz vs. Crowing
Aina vs. LD Williams
Chad Madison vs. Stank
JP Sparxx vs. Danny Taylor
Rabbit Mask vs. Honcho Williams
Kai vs. Psykle
Ricky Soaring Eagle vs. Davin Moreland

The Saints of Sinners vs. Zane Myers & El Lobo Sangriento
Firewoman vs. Mai Muyo
Alexander Darling vs. Attitude Adjuster


card subject to me getting arrested for killing that dumb fuck Eli Manning

[BookerShark]

Alexander Darling is sitting in the Darling Luxury suites. He is slowly unwrapping his wrists, but otherwise seems to be oblivious to his surroundings. Suddenly the door burst open and Dynamite Danny Taylor stands fuming. With Jack's blood still on his face, he looks like a wild man, however with the hood of darkness covering his face, we can not see how Darling is responding to him. For a moment both men stand in what can only be described as a Mexican standoff. Finally Danny points the Hulk Hoganesq "You" finger point at Alex, and then charges forward. Both men start exchanging blows. Thankfully before it can go to far, Firewoman and Victor Deniro enter the room and force themselves between the two wrestlers.

Neither Alex nor Danny seems willing to give ground, but between Fire's skill and Vic's sheer determination, they are able to push them away.

DVD: Come on man you know what happened to Alexis....j

Firewoman: After what just happened to Jack.....

Both Fire and Vic: You of all people should understand what he is going through.

A pause occurs where Vic and Fire exchange a glance of "I can't believe we just did that. Both Alex and Danny still seem full of frustration, but it is no longer aimed at each other. Neither says anything, but Danny leaves, presumably heading back to the Destroyatorium, as Alex heads farther into the Darling suites. Vic and Fire hold their positions until both men are gone, before finally turning to face each other.

DVD: When did we become the voice of reason?

Fire: Hell if I know Vic.

The two give an uncomfortable nod of mutual thanks and begin to follow their respective allies, when Vic stops.

DVD: Fire?

Fire: Yeah?

DVD: Thanks for being here.

Fire: (slight pause) You two.

FADE

[BookerShark]

~~~ GM Selena is sitting st her desk doing paperworky things. There’s a knock at the door. Chuckles shuffles over and openes the door. Bridgette walks in and sits down across from Selena.

GMtSa-T: What are you doing here? I didn’t think you flew.

Bridgette: I don’t. I do, however, sail.

GMtSa-T: Oh. And what can I do for you?

Bridgette: Well, I have two different things to talk with you about. First off, I don’t know if you’re familiar with this…

~~~ Bridgette reaches in her bag and pulls out a large, leatherbound book and puts it in front of Selena. ~~~

GMtSa-T: What is this?

Bridgette: It’s called a book. Specifically, it’s the 1904 NWA Rulebook.

GMtSa-T: N W Who?

Bridgette: The NWA. National Wrestling Alliance.

GMtSa-T: And who are they?

Bridgette: Well, they wrote the rules. And everyone, including the OOWF, uses their rules as a basis for their own rules.

GMtSa-T: We do?

Bridgette: We do. Disqualifications, countouts, how championships change hands, all of these are based on the original NWA Rulebook. You know what else is in the rulebook?

GMtSa-T: No.

Bridgette: It’s another generally accepted rule that championships must be defended every 30 days.

GMtSa-T: Hey! That’s a good idea. We should totally do that.

Bridgette: Yes, we should. And you know how long it’s been since the Tag Team Championships were defended?

GMtSa-T: Longer than 30 days?

Bridgette: You catch on quick. Now the rulebook says that championships that aren’t defended every 30 days get vacated.

GMtSa-T: Ooooh, I get it, you want me to strip the Hawaii’ans of the tag team titles.

Bridgette: Championships, but yes, that’d be the best thing to do.

GMtSa-T: But… wouldn’t that be weird to use someone else’s rules to do that?

Bridgette: There’s precedent. When the founding fathers wrote the constitution, they didn’t just make up new laws. They took existing British laws and then adapted them for their own use. That’s what I think you should do here. Take the existing NWA rule and apply it here. Have a tournament, flip coins, whatever it takes. The OOWF deserves Tag Team Champions that actually act like champions.

GMtSa-T: That seems kind of harsh.

Bridgette: Or keep it simple. Put them in a match against the top-ranked contenders.

GMtSa-T: Uh huh. And that would be…

Bridgette: Chad and Zane, naturally.

GMtSa-T: Yeah, I don’t know. That seems like trickery to me. And I already told you I’m not taking back the stipulation that Texpress and the Hawaii’ans can’t face each other anymore.

Bridgette: I figured as much. I have scheduled a meeting with the Board in a couple weeks. I’m sure they’ll be interested to hear your side on why the Hawaii’ans weren’t even scheduled to defend the championships once since New Year’s Day.

GMtSa-T: You went to the Board? That’s so mean.

Bridgette: That brings me to my next reason for being here. (She pulls out a manila folder out of her bag) This is official notification, signed by Chad Madison and notarized, that when he wins the Invitational, he will cash it in the following MidWeek Mayhem for a Tag Team Championship match against whomever is champion at the time.

GMtSa-T: He can’t do that.

Bridgette: See, yes he can. The bylaws clearly state that the Invitational winner can use their championship match anywhere, anytime, against any champion they choose. Chad is choosing the Wolrd Tag Team Champonships.

GMtSa-T: But, the stipulation says No Texpress/Hawaii’ans matches.

Bridgette: Hmm.. Looks like you’ll have to do something about that.

GMtSa-T: Wait, who says he’s even going to win the Invitational? He faces Stank on Wednesday. Stank’s one of the best ever. Chad’s just a tag team guy.

Bridgette: Yeah, go ahead and assume that. Chad’s as talented as they come. He beat Firewoman, again. He’s beaten the World Champion one on one in a title match. Stank has a longer resume as a singles wrestler. But Chad has a singles championship to his name. And he won it within weeks of stating it as his goal. The fact is he’s put little effort into his singles career and has had more success faster than just about anyone. IF he ever DID go full time, he’d have a track record as good as anyone. Guaranteed. Chad is winning the Invitational. Now you have decisions to make.

~~~ Bridgette gets up and leaves ~~~

GMtSa-T: great. I hate when she comes here. I always have to deal with the stupid Board afterwards.

[BookerShark]

*A few minutes later*

Alexander comes out the bedroom carrying a bag as Danny and Victor are leaving and Poe is entering the room. Fire turns to Alex to see that he already has a bag.

Fire: Where are you going?

Alex looks around the room at Danny, at Victor, at Poe, and finally at Fire.

Alexander: I don't know.

Firewoman: When will you be back?

Alexander: I don't know.

Fire takes a moment to really look at Alex...

Firewoman: Are you leaving?

Alex takes a deep breath...

Alexander: I really don't know Lisa. I don't know what's going on with me. I don't know how to do what needs to be done. I just...I can't...I need some time, that's all.

Firewoman: Then let me go with you.

Alexander: Not this time. I'm sorry.

And with that Alex pulls the hood up over his head and walks between the people left in the locker room and out the door. Fire turns to Poe...

Firewoman: Have we lost him?

Poe: Honestly Fire...I just don't know. I've pushed him to his limits and beyond and I've never seen him this broken and lost.

Fire just turns to look at the empty door and we...

*Fade*

[BookerShark]

<Alex is walking toward the exit when Moose walks in the door smoking a cigar>

Where you headed Little Alex? You running away?

<Alex says nothing but keeps walking>

Run away bitch. Run away. <mocking> poor Alex, he snapped, he is confused, he almost HURT someone tonight. BOO FUCKING HOO. You're no phoenix. You're no phoenix. You are a goddamn coward, you hear me BOY you are a fucking coward

<Alex stops and looks like he is going to turn on Moose, he clenches his fists, but then shakes his head and walks out the door. Moose yells behind him>

RUN AWAY BITCH! GO JOIN THAT WHORE OF A SISTER! YOU CAN RUN ALEX, BUT YOU CAN'T HIDE! I AM GOING TO TAKE EVERYTHING YOU LOVE AND DESTROY IT! COME BACK WHEN YOU FIND YOUR BALLS BITCH!

<Moose grabs his head and laughs maniacally as we fade to black>

[BookerShark]

Eco walks into frame and looks at Moose laughing. He then looks out to Alex leaving.

Eco: You're laughing.

Moose: He's walking away.

Eco: But to where?

Moose: Doesn't matter.

Eco: If overconfidence was all it took to succeed, Jack, Tom Brady would have four Super Bowl rings right now.

Moose: You--

Eco: (to the tune of Yale Bulldogs) Giants! Giants! One More Down! E-Li Manning!

Eco pops up to a nearby ladder and ascends, climbing through the window to the lower roof of the arena. He sits and watches Alex as he walks off into the distance.

FADE

[BookerShark]

*fade-in to Chris Evans*

Evans: So Round 1 of the INvitaitonal passes us by, and surprise surprise, every single member of the New Guard is still in here. Now to be fair, Folz and I had some absolute jokes as opponents, but as far as Kai, Aina, and Sparxx are concerned, they went against the Executioners, men who we allow to work alongside us. Despite their fun-loving personalities, they’re as tough and as talented as they come. And to beat them as quickly as they did, that should tell you all that needs to be said about us. The only one downside to The Executioners is that they showed them mercy at the beginning of their matches, thinking that we would treat them different from anyone else. And if the past few weeks says anything, it’s that we don’t. They attempted to shake our hands, and we beat them down. They try to ask us to dance and goof off, we beat them down. They worked well as a warm-up to the next round.

Next round, I’ve got Ghosthead, Folz has the former Firechild, Aina’s got LD, Kai has the former New Guard protégé Psykle, and JP’s got the best draw out of us all; he’s got Danny Taylor, the shell of a man, the man who couldn’t stop his friend from being taken out, and lashes out at everyone but who is truly to blame: himself.

And speaking of those wallowing in self-pity, that leads me to Alex. Poor little Alex seems to have lost his mind as well. After setting his sights on Moose, Alex snapped on Taylor, and showed no mercy. He got himself disqualified, but he did something, he made an impact, and I’ll admit that he got my attention. But then what does he do? He sulks, he puts on his hoodie, and he runs off like the emo-bitch that he’s allowed himself to become. He’s become just like Danny, a weakling, a man who allows his emotions to control his actions. This is no place to have emotions. You wear your heart on your sleeve, we’ll tear it out and stomp on it. Only the strong survive in this new era of the OOWF, and Alex, well, you’re just...not.

*fade to black*

[BookerShark]

<Moose is still standing staring out the back doors, but not really looking at anything, he cocks his head to hear something, then slowly shakes his head. From behind, we her a familiar voice>

Poe: This is a dangerous game you are playing my friend

MHJ: <slowly turning to face him> What do you care

Poe: The road you are going down…….there is nothing good at the end

MHJ: I’ll decide that

Poe: You think you have broken him, you haven’t. I know Alex well

MHJ: You know what? Fuck him. He tucked his tail between his legs and ran away like a fucking coward.

Poe: He’ll be back

MHJ: Yeah? Good

Poe: <shakes his head>

MHJ: Again, what do you care? You came here for what? To SAVE him?

Poe: I have made my peace with my past. Alex included. We were both wrong, I have forgiven him

MHJ: Good for you. I will NEVER forgive him. Or her. Neither of them. Ever

Poe: And to what end? Do you think you can drive Alex out of the OOWF? And even if you succeed in that, would you do the same to your sister?

MHJ: My sister died a year ago

Poe: No Jack, your sister is Lisa Darling. Whether you want to admit that or not, that is the truth. And I think you underestimate her. I think her, even more than Darling, is capable of things you never dreamed of if pushed too far

MHJ: Good. That’s what I want

Poe: Again, why?

MHJ: <getting agitated> WHY? I hate that fucker. HATE, Omar. You know, the feelings you USED to have. That little son of a bitch…….what he did to me……….and then to make things worse, SHE fucking turns her back on ME. Family goddamn it. Family. She has the NERVE to get mad because I team with Eco? Fuck her. SHE MARRIED ALEX. No, you know what, I cannot forgive that. After what he did to her too…….

Poe: You can’t fight them both

MHJ: I trust Eco

Poe: I don’t doubt the trust, I am just not sure his hate for them is as strong as yours. You can’t fight them both

MHJ: I will. And I will win. Or I will die trying.

Poe: (thinking for a moment) You know, I always thought of you as a weapon. Like a machine gun. When that fire is concentrated on one target, it is lethal. When it is fired haphazardly, innocent people get hurt. I think that is why the Five worked Jack, you had a target, you had focus. That is why kz worked, LD was your focus. Now? You attack family and friends, people who have nothing to do with it get hurt. You are better than that.

MHJ: You know what? Save it. LD is not here. He wants nothing to do with it despite Alex treating him like a stepping stone. Stank? He’s not here either. He wants war with the New Guard despite Alex treating him like a notch on his headboard. And YOU? You sure as hell aren’t here either. So I do it alone. I will fight alongside Eco, I will alienate everyone, I will lose it all to eliminate the fucking Darlings.

<Poe just looks at Moose, then shakes his head and turns and starts to walk away>

MHJ: You know, its too bad

<Poe stops and looks at Moose>

Poe: What is?

MHJ: It’s too bad you have forgotten what hate feels like. It is too bad you decided to forgive the man who tried to end you. Its really too bad, cause me, you and Eco? No one could stop us. No one

<Poe just shakes his head, turns, and walks away>

[BookerShark]

It is the next morning at the Darling Luxury Suites. Fire appears to have been up all night, which is nothing unusual, but her eyes are very, very red. Lucky comes in quietly, bringing a big cup of coffee, some video, some papers...the usual. He gently sits the coffee in front of her.

L: How ya doin'

FW: So help me, Eugene, if you're going to patronize me all day, I'll put you through a table myself.

Lucky jumps a bit at the anglicized version of his real name. Fire grabs the coffee and takes a big swig.

FW: There's a disturbing lack of Baileys in there.

L: It's 7am, first of all. Second, alcohol interacts badly with your meds, and --

FW: Fuck my meds. Seriously, fuck this whole ... treatment-therapy-personality reintegration whatever the fuck it is. If this is how it feels to be "sane" then I'd like to go back to being fucked up, please.

L: Well, sounds like you're off to a good start....

FW: *glaring at him* What's all that?

L: Oh, some charity stuff from Covenant House...videos of your opponent Wednesday--

FW: I can't think about Wednesday right now.

L: Well....I'll just leave them here for you....

He sets them down on the table, and looks at his boss, who is staring off into space. He starts to walk away.

FW: Lucky...what if....

Lucky goes to sit down next to her on the couch, and puts a hand on her shoulder.

L: He will be back....I promise.

FW: If not, you're fired.

L: I figured.

Firewoman feels better it seems and starts to fiddle with the camera on the laptop.

L: Who are you....Fire, I don't think that's a good idea. Curiosity killed the cat.

FW: Yes, well satisfaction brought her back.

Lucky shakes his head and goes to do other things. Firewoman finally gets things to work and after a delay, Sydney Wyld's face appears on the screen.

SW: I thought you might be calling.

FW: Cut the niceties. Let me talk to him.

SW: He's...he's not here, Fire. I haven't heard from him at all.

FW: Uh huh....

SW: I swear to you.

FW: ....

SW: ....

FW: Fine...if you do--

SW: I'll tell you, and I'll tell him to call you.

FW: If you're lying...

SW: I'm not.

FW: I found you once. I'll find you again. There will be no place on Earth you can hide.

SW: ....understood.

Firewoman slams the computer top down and then throws it across the room, where it shatters into a million pieces. Lucky, without batting an eye, leaves the room and comes back with a broom, a dustpan, and a new laptop.

L: Feel better?

FW: Okay, who's Wednesday?

L: Um...Mai Muyo.

A smile creeps over Fire's face.

FW: Good.....perfect.

FADE

[BookerShark]

*Fade in to the Hell Hole Pub and Grill in Hell, Michigan, where we find El Lobo Sangriento TALKING~! to the bartender…

Bartender: …so then he says, “Tanks for nothing!”

ELS: Great story, but I’ve heard it. You didn’t happen to catch Mayhem last night, did you?

Bartender: Of course I did. I never miss an OOWF show.

ELS: Then I can assume you’re familiar with the Onslaught division and its rules?

Bartender: Oh yeah. I know them like the back of my hand.

ELS: Good. Then maybe you can explain to me how I lost an Onslaught Rules match at the 22:02 mark when the time limit is 15 minutes?

Bartender: …

ELS: Thought so. I mean, I’m happy to be teaming with Zane this week – especially since we get to do some damage to Moosehead Jack and Ecosystem – but I got screwed last night. Both Psykle and I should have advanced or neither of us should have.

Bartender: So what are you going to do about it?

ELS: Take it out on Moose and Eco. There’s enough upheaval in the OOWF as it is without me making a fuss and screwing with the tournament. It pisses me off, but I’ll get over it. I have no problem earning my title shots the old-fashioned way. Day by day. Week by week. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some friends to check in on.

*Lobo tosses some money on the bar and heads out of the building to the arena across the street. Once he’s there, he heads straight for the Destroyatorium, where he finds Dynamite Danny Taylor and Dashing Victor Deniro TALKING~!...well, I mean, Vic’s talking. Danny’s GESTICULATING~! fiercely as Lobo approaches…

DVD: …can’t keep storming into locker rooms and attacking people.

*Danny glares at Vic with an icy stare and nods his head.

DVD: No you can’t.

DDT: *nods*

DVD: No you ca–

ELS: Guys, guys. Come on. No need for any bad blood in here. Let’s all calm down and talk about this rationally.

*Vic and Danny both turn to Lobo. Neither man has a pleasant expression on his face…

ELS: Yeah. I know. Why should you listen to the new guy who hasn’t even been showing up lately? Here’s why: we decided months ago that we could do more good by fighting inside the ring than by fighting outside it. We all agreed that it was the right way to go about our business. Well, it still is. We can do far more long-term damage to our opponents by beating them where in counts: in the ring. Trust me, I want to perform unspeakable acts of violence on the New Guard and Saints of Sinners.

DVD: And Alex?

ELS: And Alex. Definitely Alex. I knew we couldn’t trust him when he stuck with the Hawaiians after they joined the New Guard. Now he loses his smile and thinks that’s a good enough excuse to throw the rulebook out the window? Fuck that. “I was sad” doesn’t cut it. If he shows his face in the OOWF again, he can answer for his actions. In the meantime, Zane and I get a crack at Saints of Sinners this week, and Danny, you’re still in the Invitational and you get to take your frustrations out on JP Sparxx.

*Danny’s look becomes one of intensity at that thought…

ELS: As long as you keep your cool and stay within the rules, you should have no problem with Sparxx. Just don’t lose it like Alex did and get DQed. Now, I have to ask you a very serious question.

*Danny waits…

ELS: Have you lost your smile too?

*After a moment of intense staredown, Danny loses control and breaks into uncontrollable (yet silent) laughter. Vic joins in and slaps Lobo on the back…

DVD: Lobo, you always know how to lighten the mood.

ELS: It’s what I do. Who needs a beer?

*Lobo heads over to the fridge as we *FADE*

[BookerShark]

Poe is GM Selena's office READING~. Selena is at her desk finishing up some work. Kai, Aina, and Noelani enter the office, Noelani sporting a nice mark on her jawline.

GMSa-T: Oh, wow, she got you good!

Noe: Ugh, I need more concealer.

Kai: There's a lot of things you need.

Aina: Omar, thank you for inviting us out.

Poe: My pleasure. I figure while I'm in the Caribbean, it'd be nice to take you all out to dinner.

GMSa-T: I know! I'm starving!

Kai: The Kai LOVES Mahi Mahi!

Aina: Who are we waiting on?

Poe: A'isha.

Kai: She's not bringing that fake Ket jabroni is she?

Aina: You think he's a fake.

Poe: I do not know what to believe. A'isha is a strong minded, goal oriented woman. I'm proud of her for that, but to that extent, I know not of her intentions here.

Female Voice: My ears are burning.

A'isha al-Takriti walks into the room.

Kai: No Ket?

Aa-T: No. This is a family affair.

A'isha looks at Noelani's chin.

Aa-T: Wow, that's...

Noe: Please don't say it.

GMSa-T: Where were you? We're starving?!

Aa-T: I had a matter to take care of. I'm ready to go now.

A'isha winks at Noelani. Then, as they start to file out of the office, we cut to the Destroyatorium where we see a card with Ashley's name on it accompanied by three red roses...

[BookerShark]

Fade into the Destroyitarium. Spencer is putting ice on Ashley's hand. Firewoman is sitting across the bar from them, and from her slightly slurred speech, she's been there quite a while.

FW: I told you, if you're going to punch, be sure to keep your wrist straight and use only the first two knuckles.

Ash: I know, but that's hard to do when you're, you know...in the moment.

FW: Well, set me up with another round.

Ashley and Spencer look at each other and then at Fire.

FW: What?

Ash: Well, is it entirely possible you've had enough?

FW: Let me think...no, still feel like crap. Pour me another one.

Spencer breaks open a new bottle of Jameson's and pours Fire another shot. Ashley goes down to the other end where Lobo and Victor are.

Ash: I think she's had too much.

ELS: Eh, let her be...

DVD: Yeah, she'll be fine...

Ash: Oh you are both such....MEN. First of all, while she's very strong, I don't know if you know how much work she's done to be more open and....I guess NORMAL, and Alex is a large part of that. Now he's gone. If Spence walked out on me that way, it would kill me, and I don't have half the issues that she's been fighting.

Lobo and Victor look down sheepishly.

ELS: I hate when she does that.

Ash: Not to mention what she's taking and how it could interact.

DVD: Fine. Look, she can still talk...when she starts to go beyond that, we'll--

DVD is interrupted when Fire throws the full bottle of Jameson's against the wall, and then staggers toward the door.

Ash: You were saying?

DVD: Yeah, yeah. Look, just call Lucky, okay?

Scene shifts and Fire is WALKING~! down the Hallway of Random Encounters, mostly using the wall for support. She gets to a corner and stops.

FW: Don't you get tired of stalking me?

Ecosystem steps out of the shadows.

ES: My, but you're in a state.

FW: Out of my way.

ES: Fire......Lisa......you're in so much pain....

FW: If you don't get out of my way you'll be in...more.....what?

ES: There's an easy solution to this. You know it...I know it....Life has been so hard since you left Trinity, hasn't it? All the appointments....all the stares...

Ecosystem's voice has morphed into the vaguely hypnotic tone he used to use. Whether it's her depression, the drugs, or the alcohol, it seems to be working....

FW: They don't...they've all forgiven me...

ES: Have they, Lisa? Have they REALLY? I mean, even your precious Alex....he's gone, isn't he? You interfered in his match...you tried to save him from himself, and this is how he repays you? Leaving you alone...no one to protect you....

FW: That's not...he'll....he'll be back.

ES: Are you sure? Are you really sure, Lisa? I mean...no one has EVER come back, have they?

FW: No, but...

ES: Except me... I'm right here. You can come home with me, and I'll reconcile you with your brother...and all this pain will go away.

Fire looks at him, and she seems to believe every word he says.

FW: I--

DVD: Okay, that's about enough.

Victor has come around the corner as well, and his voice seems to have snapped Fire out of her trance.

ES: Victor, we're just talking over old times.

DVD: I heard what you're doing. You need to go along your way. I'll be seeing Firewoman back to her room.

ES: Really? I didn't think she was your type.

DVD: I'll ignore that. And if you have any ideas about attacking me...

El Lobo Sangriento appears behind Victor. Ecosystem smiles congenially to both of them.

ES: Then I leave you to your clean up duties. Good evening, gentlemen.

Ecosystem turns and heads back towards the Saints of Sinners locker room. Fire looks like she's going to pass out, but Victor catches her, and puts one of her arms across his shoulders.

ELS: You want me to go to?

DVD: Naw...Lucky's meeting us at the Darling suites. I'll be fine. Okay, c'mon Fire.

FW: Oooohkay......

Victor let's Fire lean on him as Lobo heads back into the Destroyitarium.

FW: You won't tell anyone I let you help me, will you?

DVD: No way, sis....I got a reputation to maintain.

FADE

[BookerShark]

<Vic helps Fire into the room, once inside, Lucky takes over and thanks Vic. Vic is no sooner gone down the hall when Moose and Eco kick the door open and storm inside. Lucky jumps to his feet, but Eco grabs him and slams him into the wall, then pulls out a scalpel of his own and presses it against Lucky's throat.>

Eco: Move.......I'm begging you

<Fire tries to get up, but in her state, she has no chance, Moose catches her with a right cross to the jaw, and she goes down in a heap. Moose pulls her up and slams her face first into the wall several times. Fire's survival instinct kicks in and she catches Moose with an elbow to the side of the head, then grabs a light and cracks Moose upside the head with it. Eco knees Lucky in the gut sending him to the floor, then catches Fire from behind, sweeping her legs from beneath her. Fire goes down, and Moose grabs her by the hair and yanks her up, glares at her with a look of rage in his eyes>

MHJ: This is going to look REAL fucking familiar, I owe you this and a WHOLE lot more Lisa

<Moose sets Fire up and POWERBOMBS her through the glass coffee table! Fire gasps in pain and clutches her ribs. Moose flips her over, grabs her arms and MOTHERFUCKING CURBSTOMPS her onto the shards of glass! Blood begins to stain the carpet around her head, and Fire doesn't move. Moose drops to his knees next to Fire and looks at the INC. He grabs Fire by the hair and pulls her face up, now covered in blood and broken glass>

MHJ: YOU SEE THIS LITTLE ALEX? THIS IS ALL ON YOU! HER BLOOD IS ON YOUR HANDS! COME BACK LITTLE ALEX. COME BACK AND FINISH THIS. YOU CAN'T PROTECT ANY OF THEM FROM ME, I WILL GET THEM ALL ONE BY ONE. FINISH THIS!

Eco: Let's go, Drink and Destroy are coming!

<Moose slams Fire's face into the floor again and gets up and heads out the door. They are barely gone when Lobo, Danny and Vic make it into the room and check on Fire, as we fade>

[BookerShark]

~~~ Chad Madison walks into an unmarked dressing room. #Heel Cowboy Johnny Adrenaline is leaning against the wall, wearing a clear green brimmed visor. AA is on his cell phone ranting about something. Honcho and CC Scott are in a corner, talking amongst themselves. ~~~

AA: Three and a half! No Way. Two and a half at the most. Wait! What are you doing here!

Chad: I thought I'd come talk to you guys about the Tag Team Championships

#HCJA: .....

Honcho: I'm listening, Alan, hang up the phone.

AA: You can't hang up the phone on me! I'm already hanging up the phone!

CC: That... didn't quite work.

Chad: Calm down Alan. Listen, You dont like me, that's fine. Honcho, with no disrespect to your buddy CC there, you've got too much talent to not have really done anything around here yet. The way I see it, with the Saints and Phoenix going at each other's throats, and Us not being able to face the Hawaii'ans ourselves, You two are in prime position to step up and take the Tag Team Championships. As much Texpress wants to have them, we'll settle for the New Guard NOT having them.

CC: So what you're saying is.....

Chad: We've faced and beaten the Hawaii'ans more times than anyone else around here. Zane has the most extensive tape collection in the company, when the OOWF puts out DVDs, they come to Zane for footage. I'm offering our help.

AA: Help! I don't need your help! I'm Alan Fucking Capps!

Chad: And you've been reduced to a comedy act. Honcho here probably wants to win championships.

Honcho: I saw your promo. But I really want to win them without any outside help.

Chad: And that's fine. We don't plan to interfere. But don't think Kai and Aina are above all that. Just keep in mind how much easier it is to win when the playing field is level.

~~~ Chad turns to leave ~~~

Hey Alan

AA: Now what! I have important business to attend to.

Chad: You still setting the lines on the Inviational?

AA: I..uh.... might know a guy who knows a guy. (stage whisper) you want in?

Chad: No, but tell your guy to keep this in mind. What seed seems to win at least once every March?

AA: Duh. The 12. Even these guys know that.

Chad: I thought so, just. keep that in mind.

~~~ AA looks confused, then turns to face johnny, who now has a bracket board behind him, and is pointing at the 5/12 matchup in the Invitational ~~~

AA: Hmmmmm (Picks up his phone) Hey! I'm telling you Three at best. Three to One! Yes I'm sure, Fat Boy! And put an extra G on the 12. YES! The 12. Crazy! I'll Show you Crazy!

~~~ AA Drops the phone, rips off his shirt, and begins to elbow drop his phone repeatedly. Honcho and CC exchange looks as we fade... ~~~

[BookerShark]

**As the Flyin’ Hawai’ians et al are leaving the building, they are approached be a man in a postal uniform.**

SMiaPU: “I have a delivery for a Mr….The Kai?”

**Kai stops, as do Aina and Noelani, while Poe and his family continue to their car.**

K: “What does the postal jabroni have for the Kai?”

PJ: <hands Kai a clipboard> “Sign here please.”

**Kai signs and the postman hands him an envelope. He stands there with his hand out.**

K: “Pay the man Noelani.”

N: “Me? Why me? “

K: “You ought to be good for something other than-”

A: “Kai!”

**Noelani glares at Kai, but she tips the postman and he disappears.**

K: <tearing open the envelope> “Now who would be sending Kai a - huh.”

N: “What is it?”

K: “A sympathy card.”

N: “What’s it say?”

K: “ ‘Sorry in advance for your loss. I’m sure you’ll get used to wrestling singles eventually - Williams.’ ”

S: “What is that supposed to mean?”

K: “Haole playin’ games with us.”

A: <snarling>“He won't be playing when I get my hands on him."

N: “There’s something else written on the back of the card.”

K: “ ‘On the bright side, you won’t have to worry about it long.’ ”

S: “C’mon you guys! I’m starving.”

**Kai crumples the card and throws it away as they follow after Poe.**

[BookerShark]

One of the SFJ's is doing a screen test when the stupendous and quite pissed off J-P Sparxx grabs the microphone from her.

J-PS: I'm a keep this short an' sweet. Ev'rywhere I go, I'm gettin' jumped. Now, I'm all fo' street justice an' all dat shit, but dis is ridiculous. That Ketchup Szechuan idiot comes back from where eva da hell he comes from an' attacks me?!? No one cares 'bout you! No one wants you! Go back ta whateva piece of crap town you come from. The Spark is not da OOWF whoopin' boy! Mute Boy! You gon' find out what happens when ya piss off the Spark! Bring yo A-Game son, 'cuz you 'bout to get schooled. An' Ketchup, you show yo face I'm rip yo head off an' punt it into da balcony, ya feel me? Bitch? Fuck you!

J-P tosses the mic to the ground and leaves.

[BookerShark]

The ring is decorated with the set for a talk show segment. The canvas
is covered with a matt black underlay, two black stools are positioned
in the middle of the ring with two microphones on them. Opposute the hard camera position there is a very expensive looking screen in a mounting with black wings coming out of the side.

"The Crowing" by Coheed and Cambria hits the speakers and Chris Crowing (formerly known as Firechild) makes his entrance. Dressed in some grey bootcut jeans and a nicely cut black shirt, he strides to the ring and grabs one of the microphones...

CC: Welcome to the first edition of my new talk segment, "As The Crow Flies" because you can never hammer some gimmick based symbolism too far into the ground. I'd like to thank the props department for putting together this awesome looking set....

He stifles a laugh, but continues...

CC: OK, it's a tad gauche and obvious, but hey it's called getting a new gimmick over and I like black, crows, big screen TVs and modern Scandinavian furniture.

The big screen shows footage of Kayfabe quivering with rage in the back. Crowing shakes his head.

CC: Such an angry, angry lady... Now usually you'd use a talk segment like this to comment on your last match or try and get inside the head of your next opponent. Given the way things went down last week, I don't really now what to say, Ecosystem came to wrestle, Alex got involved without me asking him to, but I still got the win. I really don't know how to feel about that and frankly, I don't think I really want any part of that soap opera, right now.

This week, I'm facing Matt Folz... Matthew Folz, Matt who is in for a Fall. The guy who runs with the New Guard but doesn't have a title to show for it. Doesn't that make him like Virgil? The token jobber in a succesful heel stable? I don't know, maybe he's just being nice to his friends and doesn't want to relieve them of their gold. Well Matt, I'm not burdened by such a platonic bent of conscience. That said, we've never tangled before so I can't get much more a segment out of you.

However, I HAVE tangled with the Onslaught champion, J-P Sparxx, who has said some rather uncomplimentary things about me... roll the tape.

---
J-PS: A'ight listen up, yo. Last week, dis foo' Firechild said sum things I can't let go, knowwhatI'msayin'. Yo damn ass said I be a stereotype an' shit. Nah man, ya gots it all wrong. I'm da original, ya dig? Ev'ryone copyin' me. Maybe ya needs to look at yoself in da mirror 'cuz it's you dat's lackin' Ya wanna be all creepy an' spooky an' shit. Dat's been done, yo. By better chumps dan you, knowwhatI'msayin'. Speakin' of, ya wanna talk 'bout stereotypes? Yo ol' vet ass comes crawlin' back in here an' actin' like you entitled to ma belt an' we New Guard are nothin'? Sounds familiar yo. Ya went Old Guard real quick like. So, Firechild...what kinda name is dat? Firechild? Ya wanna be Firewoman's baby? Child Please. Ya talk yo shit an' guess who walked outta dat ring champ? Me. The Spark. Now we gots dis fo' way dance dat was s'posed ta happen on Sunday but now it'll be Wednesday. Dat a'ight. Just gives me mo' time to be awesome. And if you, or Hippity Hop or Honcho Concho thinks ya'll gon' take ma belt? Child Please.
---

CC: Apparently Mr Sparxx thinks that I'm unoriginal and trying too hard to be spooky. Given my taste for gothic themes in promo videos and the evidently cheerful tone of my set dressing, I'm not ashamed to say that he probably has a point. Hell, I'll even admit that J-P's little rant was the straw that broke the camel's back and caused me to change things up a bit. That said, someone who portrays every negative stereotype of America's uneducated youth is in no position to comment. The difference is, I'm not ashamed to admit I'm a little bit pretentious, I like to display the breadth of my reading, rather than my inability to enunciate properly as J-P does.

In any case, I would like to welcome, as the first ever guest of As The Crow Flies, someone with a deeper insight into how YOUR Onslaught champion, Mr J-P Sparxx ticks. I'd like to introduce.... JEWEL!

Jewel enters in a particularly slutty dress, waving to the crowd and generally strutting her stuff while Crowing claps politely. She gets into the ring and comes face to face with Crowing, suddenly looking a bit surprised.

Crowing hands her the spare microphone with a crocodile smile on his face.

Jewel: Whassup wit dis? I comes out here to show the OOWF Universe dat kind of superior woman that walks wit a champine and win da Miss Mayhem beauty contest and it turns out it's this stiff playing the MC.

Crowing: Jewel, you poor gullible girl. Do I need to explain this to you using very small words?

Jewel: Are you trying to get fresh wit me honky? Ma man J-P will straight up whip...

Crowing: Hush now child. There is no Miss Mayhem beauty contest, and if there was, it would almost certainly be won by Firewoman or our esteemed
General Manager, should she choose to compete. The invitation you received was from me...

Jewel: You trying to get me alone to put 'cho hands on me,...

Crowing makes a gesture and Jewel's microphone cuts off, although we can still hear a stream of high pitched vituperation through the house
microphones.

Crowing: No Jewel, I wanted you out here to ask you how it feels to be the token hoochie mama of the most embarrassing champion in the OOWF?
J-P has done less than any of the New Guard to impress me since I've returned and to be honest, his promos look like Snoop Dogg took a laxative and decided to film the results from inside the toilet bowl. How does it feel to be associated with someone like that?

Jewel: ...beat you down like... oh, the sound is back on. I loves my J-P and he's the fightingest, most champine champine in the OOWF today. You can call him names all you like.

Crowing: I will, thanks for the vote of confidence. You say you love your J-P, but given that he has basically admitted that he's cheating on you, doesn't want the commitment of having children with you, aren't you worried that once he sees someone even trashier than you, he'll drop you like a cold burrito?

Jewel: ... I..... but.....

While Crowing has been talking J-P Sparxx has entered through the crowd and slides into the ring as Crowing is apparently distracted.

Mid-flow, Crowing spins on the spot and lamps J-P with a pipe bomb to the forehead. J-P hits the deck, busted open from the microphone shot and tries to scramble to his feet. Crowing follows up with a brutal Shining Wizard to his already dazed opponent and J-P is practically out cold.

After hesitating, Jewel goes to intervene, but Crowing grabs her hand before the slap can connect, prises the microphone out of her hand and tosses it aside.

Crowing: Walk away Jewel, you've served your purpose. I promise I won't hurt you're boy anymore. Tonight.

Jewel looks conflicted, then nods and leaves the ring, walking quickly to the back with tears in her eyes.

Crowing picks up J-P and tapes him to the spare seat, then picks up a bottle of water and splashes the Onslaught champion until he regains consciousness. He gets right in J-P's face...

Crowing: Do I have your attention now J-P? Have I taught you a lesson? I gave your little lady nothing more than some home truths and you choose to attack me from behind? You can't sneak up on an old dog like
me, I was COUNTING on you playing to type. I was sneak attacking faces when you were still getting your lunch money stolen by sophomores!

Now, I reckon I've got about another minute or so before your New Guard buddies come calling, so let me make this clear. I am calling you out. I want the Onslaught title round my waist, once again. I look at you and the way you've been holding MY belt and it's a disgrace. You're not fit to lace the boots of competitors like Capellan, Thim Reynolds and Spin Hansen (big cheer for the mention of Spin) and I aim to bring the Onslaught division back to prominence. I think I have your attention, I should also have your respect. If I have to get.... (looks at his hands and the state of J-P's forehead) ... more of your blood on my hands to do that...

So be it.

Crowing goes to turn away, but leans back in.

C: Oh, and tell your boy Matt that he's in for a fight this week.

Crowing straightens up and addresses the crowd.

CC: Thanks very much for enjoying the first edition of As The Crow Flies, please stay tuned for more unmissable antics from the stars of the OOWF!

He drops the microphone and exits the ring, choosing to leave through the crowd. As he reaches the exit at the top of the arena, we see Evans, Fulton, Folz & the Hawaiians running down the rampway and onto the ring, freeing J-P. Crowing raises one hand to get a cheer from the crowd as the New Guard seethe in the ring.

[BookerShark]

*Stank is sitting outside of Firewoman's hospital room, stooped over with his head in his hands, intensely staring at the floor. Lucky is pacing nearby with a bandage on his neck, lost deep in his own thoughts. Drink & Destroy can be seen retreating around a corner after having spent most of the night hovering around. An SFJ of indeterminate number wanders up in front of Stank with a mic in her hand and a cameraman.*

Stank - What!

SFJ - Your next opponent at this year's Invitational is a confident Chad Madison. Given your issues with The New Guard and for lack of a better way to say it... the distraction of... being here... do you believe you'll be focused and ready for your match tomorrow at Midweek Mayhem?

*Stank sits up and glares at the SFJ. She shifts uncomfortably under Stank's gaze before the big man speaks matter of factly.*

Stank - I've seen Chad's promos. He likes to throw out stats. The only stat he should be worried about is the one showing that I am the only TWO time Invitational winner. I won it last year. I'll win it again. Why? Because winning it means that afterwards, on my way to beating Stan Fulton to within an inch of his life, I will get the win, and rip that World Title from his cold, nearly dead, hands. Now you've asked me about distractions...

*Stank shifts his attention to the open door of Firewoman's hospital room.*

Stank -

SFJ - Stank?

Stank -

SFJ -

Stank - *sigh* I have nothing further to say.

[BookerShark]

**L.D Williams approaches Stank at the hospital.**

LDW: “How is she?”

S: “’bout how you’d expect.”

**Williams nods and some time passes with both men lost in their thoughts.**

LDW: “How do we always end up in the middle of this Lucas?”

S: “Don’t ask me.”

LDW: “I mean, loyalty only goes so far.”

S: “And friendship only so much further.”

**Another silence passes.**

S: “The hell of it is, I can’t stand Darling.”

LDW: “He’s not high on my list either.”

S: “But she is.”

LDW: “But she is.”

**More silence.**

LDW: “So what do we do?”

S: “Beats the fuck out of me.”

LDW: “Glad I’m not the only one.”

[BookerShark]

There's a knock on Texpress' locker room door. Chad Madison opens the door to...Poe.

CM: Nope, not happ...

Poe blocks Chad from slamming the door in his face. This gets Zane coming to the door.

Poe: I am not here to cause problems. I am here on behalf of the Board and General Manager.

Chad reluctantly opens the door and allows Poe in.

Poe: Gentlemen. Miss Bridgette.

Bridgette smiles politely, but is clearly uncomfortable in Poe's presence. Chad and Zane are standing with arms crossed, ready for anything. Poe takes a chair and sits down.

Poe: Gentlemen, please, have a seat. Let's be professional here.

Zane takes a seat next to Bridgette. Chad paces a few times before sitting as well.

Poe: The Board has asked me to pass along their feelings on the matters Miss Bridgette has presented to the General Manager.

CM: You can say who she is man.

Poe: I did not want the fact that Selena is my wife to affect our discussion here today Mr. Madison.

CM: Why isn't she doing this? What gives you the authority?

Poe: Well, to be frank, she simply does not like you. While I do not agree with many of the decisions you have made in your careers, and I especially do not appreciate the way you have treated my wife, I do respect you gentlemen as wrestlers as well as your careers, and I am capable of not letting my personal feelings cloud this meeting. As for the Board, as a Hall of Famer, and considering the position of my wife, I now have a vested interest and long term tie to this company, and that allows me certain privileges previously not afforded me. All this considered, Selena and the Board were more than happy to ask me to hold this meeting with you.

CM: Sounds pretty cowardly on their part.

ZM: Let him continue, Chad.

Poe: Before I go into this, I'd like to commend you Miss Bridgette. Your devotion and tenacity in standing up for your fiance Mr. Meyers and his partner, Mr. Madison is admirable.

B: Thank you.

ZM: Get on with it, Omar.

Poe: First, to the issue of the thirty day defense clause. The Board recognizes this infraction by the Flyin' Hawai'ians.

CM: See! Strip 'em!

Poe: Let me finish, Mr. Madison. The Board also recognizes that this is due in no part to the Flyin' Hawai'ians ducking any challengers. This issue rests more in the hands of fate. The tag team division is down as of late, with no real challengers presenting themselves. The most established tag team, other than yourselves obviously, is perhaps the Saints of Sinners, who, let's face it, their goals are not exactly the Tag Team Championships. Also, we are in a special time of year in which these regulations are relaxed. Both kai and Aina are currently involved in the Invitational, so they are spoken for as far as booking matches for them is concerned. So with that, and the booking committee deciding to place some more focus on the Trios Championships, which the Flyin' Hawai'ians also co-hold, the Board has decided not to punish the Flyin' Hawai'ians for this infraction.

Chad stands up in anger.

CM: This is total bullcrap!

Poe looks at Zane as if to say 'calm your partner.'

ZM: Is there more or can we go on about our day?

Poe: Yes, there has been an action. The Board has ruled that the Flyin' Hawai'ians must defend the OOWF Tag Team Championships at the next available show after their total elimination from the Invitational, should it happen before the Finals. Or they will be punished up to and including stripping of the titles.

CM: Yay? It won't be us getting that shot.

B: Did they say anything about overturning the stipulation about them not facing each other again?

Poe: They did address that matter. While personally, I do not agree with Selena's decision to implement this ban, I agree with her reasoning. The continuing feud had gone stale and needed to be "freshened up" in her words. I personally would have instituted a moratorium instead of a total ban, but that is neither here nor there.

CM: Get to the point.

B: Yeah, are they overturning it?

Poe: Unfortunately for you, no they are not. Not at this time anyway.

Chad throws an Aquafina bottle.

Poe: Whether or not this ban is agreeable, the fact is that you gentlemen, knowing the stipulation, signed the contract. As did Kai and Aina. Is indeed binding. And let's face it, I'm sure you gentlemen would have been perfectly content to sit on the other end o this situation had you come out on top that night, and never had to defend the Championships against Kai and Aina again.

B: So that's it? Seriously?

Poe: The Board has given a few members of their legal team the task of finding potential loopholes to get Texpress back in the Tag Team Championship picture, but until that happens, or the Flyin' Hawai'ians lose the belts, you're stuck.

ZM: Alright, Omar. Thanks for your time. You can show yourself out.

Poe grins as he stands up to leave.

Poe: Good luck gentlemen. Miss Bridgette, it's been a pleasure. Namaste.

[BookerShark]

*LD Williams is watching promos on his cellphone and happens across the meeting between Poe and Texpress. One line in particular catches his attention.*

...So with that, and the booking committee deciding to place some more focus on the Trios Championships, which the Flyin' Hawai'ians also co-hold, the Board has decided not to punish the Flyin' Hawai'ians for this infraction.

LDW - You hear this?

Stank - I'm sure he simply misspoke. He probably meant USED to co-hold.

LDW - Still...

Stank - I wouldn't read too much into it.

*Silence reigns between LD and Stank a few moments more.*

Stank - You heard from Davin?

LDW - Nope.

Stank -

LDW -

Stank - It's just with the New Guard running around looking to take us out...

LDW - I'll give him a call.

Fade

[BookerShark]

-->Cut backstage and we see Williams sitting on a bench in his locker room, watching the replay of the previous Mayhem. Most notably he is watching Rabbit Masks' match from last week, trying to study up on his opponent for this weeks Mayhem. At the end of the match, a hand comes into the screen and turns off the television. It quickly pans over to see CC Scott...

HW - Whats up man? How you holding up?

CC - Not too well. I've had to go to the trainer twice because of the match we had. You knew I wasnt ready to go.

HW - You told me not to take it easy you ham sandwich!

CC - HEY! Thats on MY list of insults! Make your own!

HW - Calm down clown shoes, I think we had an excellent match. Besides, did you really expect to go far in this invitational?

CC - Maybe I did, and maybe I want to be the OOWF World Heavyweight Champion as much as you do!

HW - Ok....then why the two year break?

CC - I was tired!

HW - That doesnt make any sense...

CC - Well......you......ah shit, I got nothing.

HW - Yeah, and how many times have you had to go to the trainer?

CC - Just once, and it was because he gave me the wrong bandage.

HW - Yeah, those monkeys really dont have a clue sometimes. Anyways, did you get that text I sent you about the whole schedule thing.

CC - Yeah, I didnt know it was a short week until today, took me by surprise.

HW - I've been watching tape on Rabbit Mask, he's a damn good competitor, but in the end, no match for me.

CC - I've seen him in the ring, you can work circles around that guy. You should have no problem handling him this week, you are almost a lock into the next round.

HW - Yeah, and did you see the AA lost last week?

CC - Yes, I laughed my ass off.

HW - For a minute I was hoping that they would have put the cardboard cutout in the invitational, that would have been sweet.

CC - But instead he lost to Folz....I knew that chump was nothing special.

AA - Did somebody say ham sandwich!

-->AA bursts into the room, but #HCJA is not with him...

AA - I wouldnt say anything, you lost to my protege!

CC - How many times do I have to go through this with you?

AA - As many times as you like, still doesnt change the facts.

CC - But what I am saying are facts!

AA - Quiet hammy.

HW - Whats on your mind?

AA - Well, I wanted to wish you luck against Rabbit Mask this week, and that I hope he doesnt tear your skull off like that guy in Japan, but thats a different story. Anyway, you are probably wondering where the OOWF Iron Man DDT Champion is?

HW - It had crossed my mind? Did they write him off with some kind of tear injury?

AA - Two things, one being dont break the fourth wall and two, he is getting his paid vacation at the moment, he is on his way to Miami to get some sun

CC - Doesnt sun bleach out the color in cardboard?

AA - I dont have time for science hammy. Now listen Honcho Poncho, I can give you all the information you need to know about Rabbit Mask, and it is on this tape *hand it over*. Do yourself a favor, watch it and study. I will see you out there champ.

-->As he leaves, Honcho looks at the tape and puts it into the machine. When he presses play we see a flash of light followed by the face of #Heel Cowboy Johnny Adrenaline. Williams forwards the tape to see that it is two hours of nothing but the face.

HW - I should have known this would be something stupid.

CC - And you actually like this guy? What kind of weed are you smoking?

HW - Thats none of your concern. Lets just get working. I want to make sure I am ready for this guy.

-->As Williams walks away he takes the tape and throws it into the trash, laughing the entire time. After the two men leave, #Heel Cowboy Johnny Adrenaline pokes his head out of the closet where the trash can is located, then slowly returns inside.



FADE

[BookerShark]

Light is streaming in the window into the hospital room. Firewoman is laying there asleep with an IV, but no other equipment. She yawns, stretches, and blinks a bit at the sunlight as she opens her eyes. she looks around and sees Spencer Darling, Lucky, and.... Dr. Freedman?

FW: Hey...*yawns again* What are you all doing here?

SD: How do you feel?

FW: Great, actually...how long was I asleep?

SD: About ... a day and a half.

FW: Wait, really? Me? And...where am I?

L: You're in a....the hospital.

FW: Why?

SF: Fire...do you remember what happened?

FW: *thinking* Um...last thing I remember, I was at the Destroyitarium...drinking.

SD: A lot.

FW: So?

SF: What about after that?

L: Anything about Moose and Eco?

FW: I remember ... oh ... yeah...vaguely.....crap, how is my face...scars?

L: It's fine. Most of cuts were superficial and already healed. There's a few kind of deep but the doc doesn't think they'll leave anything permanent.

FW: That's good. Okay, so I can go then?

SD: No, Fire...that's not....

FW: Oh wait, I was out for a long time...I had a concussion, huh? Damn that sucks...

SD: No, no concussion.

They all look at each other uncomfortably.

FW: You all have about three seconds to tell me what is going on...

SD: I believe the term we are using is...."exhaustion."

FW: Huh? That's the lame term they give to celebrities who OD or something and they don't want anyone to find out...wait.....

SF: Perhaps if you and Ms. Darling could give us a moment alone...

Spencer nods and immediately leaves. Lucky is very hesitant but after a nod from Dr. Freedman he does. Dr. Freedman hands Fire a piece of paper.

FW: Doc...

SF: What is that?

FW: It's...it's a list of all my medications....wow, that's a lot when you see them all listed--

SF: And what do they all have in common.

FW: *studies the page for minute* Well, one thing for sure is that they are DAMNED expensive. Sheesh, is that the price for one month alone?

SF: Fire...

FW: They better be coated in gold for that price--

SF: Fire...focus.

FW: Fine.... *she looks some more, and she does seem to see something, but then gets kind of defiant and shoves it back to Dr. Freedman.

FW: They're hard to pronounce?

SF: Very funny. You know what it is. Do not take with--

FW: Fine, okay, right. Do not take with alcohol. Oops.

SF: Not oops, Fire. Or at least--

FW: If you're going to all Freudian all me about there being 'no accidents' or 'no coincidences' you can save it. I was depressed, I forgot, I drank a lot, I won't do it again, problem solved.

SF: It's not just that. You've been missing our appointments.

FW: Yes, well, I've been busy, but you're right, I need to make my mental health a priority again. I promise I'll be better. Can I go now?

SF: *sigh* It's not that simple, Fire. We have to make sure this was...accidental.

Fire looks around at the room, and something seems to dawn on her.

FW: Wait...this isn't a regular hospital, is it?

SF: Nope. And you can't leave for another *checks his watch* .. twelve hours. Although I would prefer it if you stayed longer.

FW: What?

SF: You've had ... quite a lot happen in a short amount of time. I think you should...take a break. Take a step back. Reassess--

FW: Reassess my shrink, is the only reassessing I can see doing. I have a match Wednesday. You can keep me for twelve hours if you want--

SF: I do.

FW: --but I'm leaving after that and going back to do my job.

SF: We'll see.

FW: Get out...and send Lucky in here.

Dr. Freedman nods, and leaves. In a few minutes Lucky is back in.

FW: You are so fired.

L: I didn't know what to do!

FW: Well, I think we've discovered you still totally suck when it comes to making my medical decisions.

L: This is totally not like that.

FW: So...is there anyone else out there?

L: Stank and LD were here for a bit, I don't know if they left or not. Danny, Vic and Lobo were too.

FW: Really?

L: You always are so surprised to find you have friends.

FW: Oh.......

L: Fire...he must not have OOWF TV where he is...If he saw what happened, he'd be here.

FW: Yeah...sure....

L: And yes I tried to call....here...I brought you your phone.

FW: Okay....can you go now? Tell Spencer thanks but...just can everyone leave me alone for a bit?

L: Sure, Fire...I'll be right outside.

Lucky leaves, and Fire sits back in her bed, looking out the window.

[BookerShark]

Matt Folz turns a corner into the Hallway of Random Encounters when he is grabbed from behind. Folz spins and catches a punch, but before he can react further he is blasted in the face by red mist. Folz keeps his wits and grabs his attacker by the throat, slamming him into the wall. Ketsueki Seishin slams his forearms into Folz’s, breaking his grip. A chop to the throat sends Folz staggering backwards, and Ket runs him face-first into the wall. He locks Folz in a half nelson and then pivots and drives him into the floor. Ket drags Folz to his feet and sets up the Desecrator, but holds him in place as Aisha steps into the frame.

A: “You really should consider your alliances more carefully, Mr. Folz. Friends like JP Sparxx will get you killed.”

Aisha steps back and nods. Ket levels Folz with the Desecrator.

A: “Namaste, Mr. Folz.”

The camera focuses on Folz for a moment, and when it pans around, Ket and Aisha have disappeared.

[BookerShark]

Matt Folz staggers up to his feet, face still covered with Red Mist. Coughing a bit as he calls over a ninja cam.

MF: Moose, oh, excuse me, 'Ket'. I've got bigger fish to fry right now, but rest assured we're going to meet again. And when we do, you're going to regret it, I promise you.

Now, Chris Crowing, Firechild, whatever you want to call yourself.... You fucked up son. You fucked up big time. See, you were going to lose tomorrow either way, I'm clearly better than you, but I wasn't mad at you. You weren't going to get hurt, you weren't going to be made an example of, you could have walked right out of the ring. But you had to go and attack JP for no reason. See, if you fuck with one of us, you fuck with ALL of us, and you're going to learn that painfully tomorrow. That's not a threat, that's a goddamn promise. See you tomorrow.

Fade