“Go To War” by Nothing More plays over the loud speakers as the arena lights begin to pulsate. A lengthy display of pyrotechnics explodes on the stage and ramp way as the camera pans around the sold-out Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. The fans in attendance appear to be primarily on the side of the HWA, though a few High Society supporters can be spotted amongst the masses. The camera finally pans over to the announce table as we are, once again, greeted by a few familiar faces.

Trent Brown: Welcome ladies and gentlemen to HWA’s One Night Stand! That’s right, after 14 long years, we’re back for one night only… with a winner take all event against the HWA’s nemesis, the High Society! I’m Trent Brown and, as always, am happy to call the action alongside my longtime broadcast partner, Keith Kincaid!

Keith Kincaid: We haven’t even been on for a full minute Trent and you’re already putting me to sleep! I’m going to need all the energy drinks tonight!

Trent Brown: Wait… Keith… what are you drinking?

Keith shamelessly holds up his energy drink, which reads “Sonic Boost”.

Keith Kincaid: I’m so glad that you asked Trent, this is a very new energy drink created by none other than the “Sonic Rage” Johnathon Keeper. “Sonic Boost” is guaranteed to give you the boost you need to get you through your day. As the kids say, it’s all the “rage” Trent!

Trent Brown: You know the High Society are the “bad guys” here… right?

Keith Kincaid: What’s that, Trent… I can’t hear you over all the money I’m making off all these corporate sponsorships!

Trent merely sighs as the titantron lights up, showing an image of the parking lot as former HWA member, now High Society lackey, Ryan Maxem is seen admiring his SUV. The fans initially cheer at the sight of Maxem, until they see Jared Sengir and Scarlett Rayne Sengir walk into frame, the two greeting Maxem with smiles and handshakes.

Trent Brown: Looks like it didn’t take long for Maxem to make some new friends.

Keith Kincaid: Can’t blame him for trading up, Trent.

Jared Sengir: How are you enjoying your new ride, Ryan?

Ryan Maxem: Best gift ever Jared, you really need to give Eric Rayne my thanks! You guys sure know how to make a guy feel welcome.

Scarlett Rayne Sengir: It’s the least we can do, but… oh my… whatever happened here?

A sinister smile creeps across Scarlett’s face as she points to the front of Maxem’s vehicle, the bumper dented inward as if Ryan had sustained some sort of high-speed collision. Jared and Maxem exchange looks with each other, before bursting out in laughter.

Ryan Maxem: Oh… that? It’s nothing, just some idiot that got in my way.

Jared Sengir: Well we want only the best for you Ryan, let me put you in contact with one of our specialists…

Scarlett Rayne Sengir: Hey boys, what’s that?

The three direct their attention towards a large pickup truck racing towards them. Maxem squints his eyes, trying to see who the driver is.

Scarlett Rayne Sengir: Uh… they’re not slowing down…

Ryan Maxem: Wait… is that…

Jared Sengir: Look out!

The pickup truck crashes into the side of the SUV, hitting it with such impact that the car flips and tumbles where the three High Society members had been standing, before dodging out of the way.

Keith Kincaid: Someone just tried to kill Maxem! We need help out there!

A hush quiet fell over the crowd as the camera moved away from the wreckage of the SUV and over to the pickup truck, the front of it smoking, obstructing the view of who the driver was. Eventually, the driver’s side door opens up as the camera pans around to see “The Deadly One” Dan Sawyer emerge from the wreckage.

Trent Brown: Oh my God! It’s Dan Sawyer! Sawyer is here!

Keith Kincaid: Should I know who that is…?

The fans begin a mixture of chants, some going with “Holy Shit” while others go with the classic “This Is Hardcore”! Sawyer takes one look at the destroyed SUV, scowling at it, before turning around and pulling forth a baseball bat from underneath his chair. Slapping it against his hand, Sawyer smiles to himself as he walks past the camera and begins to make his way towards the arena.

Trent Brown: I can’t believe it! Sawyer is actually here!

Keith Kincaid: Again… who is that!?

The titantron changes images as the camera pans to a scene of the backstage area, the fans erupting into cheers as “Your Hero” Michael Diamond can be seen walking the hallways with a purpose. “Diamond” chants rise up among the HWA faithful as he comes to a halt, apparently finding what he was looking for. The camera pans to see Diamond standing before a door that has the nameplate of “Eric Rayne” on it. As Michael goes to reach for the handle, he stops short as the entire High Society members all come into focus, surrounding him. The fans cheers quickly turn to boos as Diamond stands his ground, his eyes scanning the smug faces of those around him.

Steven Fury: You look lost, Diamond.

Michael Diamond: Just wanted a moment with your boss…

Mary Jane Fury: He’s real busy, preparing for his “match” with Ron Royalty.

Brandon Kayros: Don’t you mean… “slaughter”, MJ?

The group laughs at the thought of Ron even standing a chance against their leader as Michael keeps his face stern, his expression serious.

Tony Gold: We can give him a message for you, if you like.

Michael Diamond: (smirking) No need… we’re in for a long night and something tells me, I’ll be seeing him soon enough.

Diamond backs away as the High Society members look after him, the camera focusing in on the “Eric Rayne” nameplate once more before switching back to ringside.

Trent Brown: I wonder what that was all about?

Keith Kincaid: Clearly Diamond is trying to turn traitor and join the High Society, Trent… I have to applaud him for his intellect, that’s what I would do if I were him.

“Ultimate Annihilation” by Suburban Scum begins playing over the loud speakers as the fans rise up to their feet. “The Deadly One” Dan Sawyer emerges from the back to cheers and chants of “HWA” as he stands before them, dressed in brown work boots, blue denim jeans, and a red flannel shirt with the sleeves rolled.

Keith Kincaid: How’d this schmuck get on the stage!? He’s not a wrestler! Can we get security…

Trent Brown: Keith, that’s Dan Sawyer.

The voice of ring announcer, Erin Wallace, cuts through the cheers and the confused mumblings of Keith.

Erin Wallace: Standing at 6’4” and weighing in at 240lbs… he is the “The Deadly One”… Dan… Sawyer!!!

The fans chant “Deadly One” as Dan made his way down the ramp, slapping hands with a few of his admirers. He rolls into the ring and held his fist high into the air as the fans give him a standing ovation.

Trent Brown: A rousing ovation for one of the most loyal members the HWA has ever known!

Long after his music had died down, the fans remained standing, chants of “Sawyer” and “HWA” mixing together. As Sawyer soaked it in, “Black Soul” by Shinedown began to play over the loud speakers. Dan turned his attention to the ramp as his opponent, Corwin Havens, emerged from the back. He is wearing leg-length black tights with a white skull on one side and a blue flame running down the other. In addition, he has standard black boots, a blue belt, and black forearm guards.

Erin Wallace: Standing at 6’1” and weighing in at 195lbs… Corwin… Havens!!!

Corwin seems to be doing his best to contain a laugh behind his lips as he makes his way down the ramp, ignoring the jeers from the audience. He walks up the ring steps and slips under the top rope, entering the ring. Longtime HWA official, Wallace Cunningham, seems to be going over the rules of the match with Sawyer as Corwin moseys around the ring. As the music dies down, chants of “Sawyer” begin to rise up from the crowd again as Dan turns and immediately exits the ring.

Keith Kincaid: Wait… where’s this idiot going now!? Is he quitting already!?

Sawyer made his way to the timekeeper’s station, requesting a microphone from Erin. Wallace hands it over as he slides back into the ring, getting immediately in the face of Corwin.

Dan Sawyer: Now I know you’re not from around here, so let me enlighten you real quick! This here is the H… W… A… and around here… we like to do it Hardcore! So what do you say Corwin!? You… me… in a Hardcore match, right here, right now!

The fans cheered their approval as Sawyer tossed the mic to the side and held out his arms, waiting for Corwin’s response. Havens immediately shook his head “no” as he appeared terrified at the thought of having to participate in such a barbaric match.

Trent Brown: Looks like Corwin wants no part of a hardcore match with Sawyer.

Keith Kincaid: Can you blame him? The barbarian already has the height and weight advantage, now he needs weapons too!?

Without warning, Corwin lunged forward, kicking Sawyer in the balls, doubling the big man over. Sawyer’s eyes nearly popped out of his head as Corwin got down into Dan’s face, playfully slapping the big man.

Trent Brown: What the hell!? A blatant low blow by Corwin!

Keith Kincaid: Match hasn’t started yet Trent, totally legal.

Havens ran to the ropes, leaping up onto the second one and flying back at Sawyer, his forearm catching Sawyer right underneath the jaw.

Trent Brown: And now a “Springboard Swiss Uppercut” by Corwin and Sawyer is down!

Keith Kincaid: Perfect execution by Corwin there, did you see how graceful he looked on that one, Trent?

Dan lay staring up at the lights as Havens bounced up to his feet, playing to the crowd as they showered him with boos. Corwin simply waved them off as he slid out of the ring, going over to the timekeepers table. He pulled the ring bell from off the table and rolled back into the ring, stalking after Sawyer.

Trent Brown: And now Corwin sizing up Sawyer with that bell!

Dan sluggishly began to get to his feet, holding his groin area. As he finally got back up to a standing base, he turned and was drilled immediately in the face with the ring bell. The bell made a loud “clunk” sound as it met Sawyer’s skull, blood beginning to flow freely from a small gash on his forehead.

Trent Brown: And now Sawyer is busted open already and this damn match hasn’t even started yet!

Corwin seemed to make an “oops” face at the sight of the blood as Wallace got down, checking on Dan. Whatever the referee kept asking Sawyer, he appeared to not want to listen as he kept waving him off.

Trent Brown: I’m not sure if Sawyer can even continue Keith…

Keith Kincaid: I mean… it has been 14 years Trent, not all of these guys can be in tremendous shape like the High Society members. Probably better this way…

Almost as if Sawyer could hear Keith’s degrading words, he rolled over and pushed himself to his knees, a fire in his eyes, the blood dripping to the mat. Corwin’s smug smirk instantly vanished as he looked around, suddenly realizing he may’ve made a mistake. Wallace asked Dan one more time if he wanted to proceed, to which Sawyer simply nodded his head. Cunningham motioned with his hand that the match had started as he kicked the ring bell to the outside.

Trent Brown: No ring bell to sound the official start of the match, but we are officially underway now!

Keith Kincaid: Not sure that’s legal, Trent…

Dan was instantly on Corwin, a barrage of fists and elbows flying as Havens did his best to cover up. Sawyer forced him into the corner as he continued the assault, Corwin eventually ending up in the fetal position against the corner turnbuckle. Wallace had to practically pull Sawyer off of Havens as the fans started up the “Deadly One” chants once more.

Trent Brown: Dan beating down Corwin here!

Keith Kincaid: Those looked like close-fisted punches, pretty sure that’s a disqualification…

Trent Brown: Oh, now you care about the rules!?

Sawyer didn’t give Corwin a chance to breathe, locking Havens arms behind his back and pulling him away from the corner. Dan lifted Corwin up, twisting him in the air and dropping Havens’ back down across his knee.

Trent Brown: A beautiful “Butterfly Backbreaker” by Sawyer!

Corwin writhed around the ring, grabbing at his back as Dan stood over him, grabbing Haven’s left leg. Placing his right foot on the hip of Corwin, Dan rolled forward, bringing Corwin’s leg with him as Haven’s cried out in pain.

Trent Brown: And now a “Stump Puller Leg Snap” by Sawyer and Dan has taken control of this match!

Sawyer didn’t want to give his opponent a second of rest as he forcefully pulled Corwin to his feet by his hair. Dan went to try and throw Havens into the ropes but Corwin’s leg seemed to collapse under him. Dan looked confused as Havens motioned over for the referee.

Keith Kincaid: Oh no! I think Corwin’s really hurt here!

Trent Brown: Guess the High Society isn’t in as good of condition as you thought, Keith…

Keith Kincaid: Do you find pleasure in the pain of another human, Trent!? This could be serious!

Wallace went to check on Corwin as he appeared to be indicating his leg was too damaged to continue. As Cunningham was distracted, Mary Jane Fury ran down the ramp and slid into the ring behind Sawyer.

Trent Brown: What the hell is this!? MJ Fury is in the ring now!

Keith Kincaid: Looks like Corwin is about to be bailed out.

Mary Jane Fury waited for her moment as Sawyer turned around, seeing her just in time as she leapt into the air, attempting to hit a “Codebreaker” on Dan, but he managed to counter by catching her in mid-air.

Trent Brown: MJ looking for the “Manslaughter” but Sawyer blocked it!

Keith Kincaid: Oh no, what is Sawyer going to do to poor MJ!

Mary Jane’s eyes went wide as Sawyer smiled, an idea coming into his head. Before he could execute his plan, however, Corwin dove forward, catching Dan right behind the knees. Sawyer crumpled to the ground as Mary Jane managed to scurry out of his grasp.

Trent Brown: Corwin saving MJ with a “Chop Block”, taking the big man down!

Wallace, now seeing Mary Jane, began questioning her as to why she was in the ring as she attempted to explain herself as just wanting to come down and check on her friend before Sawyer attacked her. While Cunningham was distracted by this, Corwin’s leg seemed to magically heal as he stood firmly on Sawyer’s foot, before dropping a knee right to his ankle.

Trent Brown: A “Knee Drop Ankle Breaker” and Corwin is in control once more!

Wallace finally managed to get Mary Jane out of the ring, warning her to not interfere as Corwin pulled Sawyer to his feet, laughing at the recent turn of events. Hobbled by the attacks on his leg, Dan found himself pressed up against the nearest turnbuckle as Corwin grabbed Sawyer’s legs once more, this time trapping them between both of his. Violently, he fell to the mat, one of his knees draping across the back of Dan’s knee. Sawyer cried out in pain as he crumpled to the mat again, grabbing at his injured leg.

Trent Brown: Corwin very conniving here, targeting Sawyer’s leg with a “Leg Trapped Ankle Breaker” from the corner and Dan’s leg may very well be injured here!

Keith Kincaid: Oh sure, now you’re worried about someone being hurt.

Mary Jane cheered on her ally as Sawyer used the ropes to pull himself to his feet. Corwin stalked behind him, waiting to strike as Dan tried to flex his leg. Turning, Haven’s rolled through, trapping Sawyer’s leg in a “Calf Crusher”.

Trent Brown: Corwin has locked the “Soul Crusher” in on Sawyer and this could be it!

Keith Kincaid: Well… I’ll be honest… Dan lasted longer than I thought he would.

Sawyer screamed out in pain as Mary Jane laughed at his anguish, while Corwin continued to torque the ankle. The fans tried to will Dan to continue, chants of “Sawyer” starting up once more. Every time Wallace asked if Dan wanted to quit, Sawyer shook his head in defiance. Dan scratched and crawled, struggling to get to the nearest set of ropes.

Trent Brown: No quit in “The Deadly One”, but can he make it to the ropes to force the break!?

Keith Kincaid: The longer he stays in that submission, the more damage that’s being done. It’s only a matter of time, Trent…

The “Sawyer” chants grew louder and louder as he continued to inch his way closer and closer, his fingers grazing the bottom rope. With what seemed like his last ditch effort, Dan lunged forward, his fist closing tightly around the bottom rope. Wallace forced the break as Corwin lay on the mat in disbelief while Mary Jane kicked the ring apron in frustration.

Trent Brown: Sawyer did it! Sawyer broke the submission hold!

Mary Jane leaped up onto the apron, accusing Wallace of somehow “screwing” Corwin out of the victory. Haven’s used this distraction to his advantage, sliding out of the ring and grabbing a steel chair from underneath the ring. Rolling back into the ring, Corwin looked to make sure the referee was still thoroughly occupied as he began to size up Sawyer. Dan rose to his feet, ducking the steel chair shot just in time. Grabbing Corwin from behind, he lifted him up into the air, dropping him down onto his knees!

Trent Brown: Dan narrowly avoids that chair shot and nails Corwin with a “Lumbar Check”!

Keith Kincaid: What an idiot, he just hurt himself with that move!

Sawyer, indeed, seemed to be favoring his already targeted leg as Corwin lay dazed in the middle of the ring, trying to catch his breath. Dan pushed himself up, seeing the steel chair lying next to him. Grabbing it, Sawyer rose to his feet and lifted it above his head, the audience cheering loudly.

Keith Kincaid: Wait… this isn’t a hardcore match! He can’t use that!

Trent Brown: Didn’t seem to bother Corwin a minute ago, Keith.

Ever the opportunist, Mary Jane screamed at Wallace to turn around as Cunningham saw Sawyer lift the chair above his head. Before Dan had a chance to strike Corwin with it, Wallace managed to pry it from Dan’s fingers. Sawyer gave the referee a “what the hell” look as Cunningham briefly berated Dan for trying to use a weapon in the match, before sliding the chair out of the ring. Sawyer glared at Mary Jane, who promptly used this opportunity to drop off the ring apron and raise her hands up, as if she had done no wrong. Again, the distraction allowed Corwin enough time to recover as he stalked behind Sawyer. Dan turned around, surprised by his quickness as Havens pulled Dan into him, using Sawyer’s own momentum against him as Corwin planted Dan face first into the mat with an “End of Days”.

Keith Kincaid: Let me do the honors, Trent… (clearing throat)… “Safe Haven”! “Safe Haven”! Corwin hits the “Safe Haven” on Mr. Baseball Dan himself and this one is all over, folks!

Trent Brown: I do not sound like that…

Corwin slides into the cover as Wallace drops to the mat, making the count. One… Two… Kick-out!

Trent Brown: Sawyer kicked out!

Keith Kincaid: What!? Impossible!

Corwin looked to Wallace, and then to Mary Jane, unable to comprehend what just happened. The fans began chanting “Sawyer” once more as Haven’s got to his feet, pacing back and forth. Frustration setting in, Corwin began slapping his knee, indicating the end is near.

Trent Brown: Looks like Corwin has had enough.

Keith Kincaid: Once he hits this, it’s all over Trent!

Havens tracked Sawyer as Dan wiped the blood from his eyes and staggered to his feet. Grabbing Sawyer, Corwin spun him around, looking for a “Ripcord Knee Strike” but finding a vicious “Clothesline” instead, one that flipped Haven’s inside out and caused him to land face first onto the mat!

Trent Brown: Sawyer had it scouted! Sawyer counted the “Black Out”!

Sawyer rolled Corwin onto his back and went for the cover. One… Two… Kick-out!

Keith Kincaid: Whew boy, that was a close one!

Mary Jane appeared ready to pull out her hair as Sawyer dropped his head, having believed that had been enough to put away Corwin. Dan pushed himself to his feet, his gaze going out to the sold-out crowd in attendance. A smile crept across his lips as he looked back down at the prone body of his opponent. Sliding out of the ring, Sawyer gave a warning glance for Mary Jane to stay back as she did just that, running around the corner and creating distance between them. Dan knelt down, pulled the curtain back, and began searching under the ring.

Keith Kincaid: Now what is this idiot doing!? How many times do we have to tell him that it’s not a Hardcore match!?

Trent Brown: I don’t think Sawyer cares anymore at this point, Keith.

The fans erupted into cheers as Sawyer pulled forth a wooden table from under the ring. Mary Jane’s eyes nearly leapt from her skull as she began screaming furiously for Corwin to get up. Sawyer slid the table into the ring, following closely behind. Wallace met Dan as he got into the ring, warning him what it would mean if he used the table. Sawyer simply nodded his head, gave the referee a pat on the shoulder, and set the table up regardless.

Keith Kincaid: This guy is going to get himself disqualified! What is he thinking!?

Chants of “HWA” started up again as Sawyer made his way over to Corwin, pulling him to his feet and directing him to the nearest turnbuckle. Dan lifted Haven’s lifeless body and perched him up onto the top of the turnbuckle, following close behind as he ascended to the second rope, balancing himself for justa moment before ascending to the very top.

Trent Brown: Oh my God, he’s not…

Keith Kincaid: He is, Trent! Someone has to stop this!

Sawyer glanced back over his shoulder, making sure the table was still within the appropriate distance. Mary Jane, seeing what was about to happen, quickly slid into the ring once again. As Dan latched his left arm around Corwin’s head, he used his right hand to grab the hip of Havens, lifting him vertically into the air. Sawyer fell backwards, both men crashing hard to the mat with a “Superplex”!

Trent Brown: “Victimizer”! “Victimizer”! Sawyer hits his finisher on Corwin and this has to be it!

At the last second, Mary Jane had managed to move the table out of the way, saving both men from having gone through it. Sawyer knew something had gone wrong when he hadn’t felt the familiar crunch of wood splintering beneath his weight but he still looked to capitalize on the situation, hooking the leg and looking to put Corwin away for good.

Trent Brown: This one is all over, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: Maybe it would be, if Wallace wasn’t so concerned with trying to hook up with MJ!

Indeed, Mary Jane continued to distract Wallace as the referee tried in vain to get her to leave the ring. She refused to leave however, instead berating Cunningham for almost allowing Sawyer to put her stablemate through a table. Dan continued to cover Corwin as the fans counted the pinfall for him. One… Two… Three… Four… Five… Six… Sawyer finally lost his cool and broke away.

Trent Brown: You’ve got to be kidding me, Sawyer had this won two times over!

Dan went to interrupt the meeting between Mary Jane and Wallace before he was rudely set upon by the emerging Steven Fury, who had rushed down the ramp and slid into the ring behind him.

Trent Brown: What the hell!? What is Steven Fury doing here now!?

Sensing another presence in the ring, Sawyer turned too late as Fury lifted him up onto his shoulders and sent him crashing through the table with an “Attitude Adjustment”!

Trent Brown: Oh my God! The “Dose of Reality”! Fury just sent Sawyer through that table with the “Dose of Reality”!

Keith Kincaid: In all fairness, Sawyer brought the table into the ring so… it’s kind of his own fault.

The fans went deathly quiet as Fury quickly slid out of the ring and hid from sight as Wallace turned away from Mary Jane, confused at the turn of events. Cunningham finally got her out of the ring as he turned his attention back to the two competitors, Corwin beginning to stir. Seeing the golden opportunity before him, Havens slowly crawled over to Sawyer’s corpse as the fans began booing and chanting “bullshit”.

Trent Brown: I can’t believe it; this can’t be how it ends!

Keith Kincaid: Again Trent, I give a lot of props to Sawyer… he lasted longer than I gave him credit for.

Corwin draped an arm over Sawyer’s chest as Wallace, almost tentatively, got down and made the count. One… Two… Thr-kickout!

Trent Brown: I don’t believe it! Sawyer kicked out! Sawyer kicked out!

Keith Kincaid: How the hell did he do that!?

Mary Jane’s feral scream was drowned out by the HWA audience rising to their feet, cheering in disbelief. Chants of “Sawyer” filled up the arena as Cunningham checked on both competitors once more. Corwin crawled to the ring apron as Mary Jane continued to give him guidance on what he needed to do next. Nodding his head in understanding, Havens used the ring ropes to pull himself to his feet as Sawyer began to stir.

Trent Brown: I have no idea how Sawyer is still even in this match, let alone trying to stand once again.

Corwin stalked behind Dan once more as Sawyer staggered to his feet, only to fall to a knee. The blood was flowing freely from wound know, shards of wood sticking out of his back. Wallace tried clearing the shattered debris as best he could as Havens, again, tapped his knee, signaling for the “Black Out”. Like a snake, Corwin lashed out, spinning Sawyer around and driving his knee viciously into his face.

Keith Kincaid: The “Black Out” connects this time, Trent! That’s got to be it!

For a moment, Sawyer seemed to be frozen in stasis before his body fell lifeless to the mat, Corwin collapsing on top of him. One… two… three! Wallace ordered for the bell to be rung as Mary Jane jumped up and down in delight.

Trent Brown: Damn it! Corwin wins! It took three High Society members working in conjuncture together but they manage to put Sawyer down!

Keith Kincaid: Are you really that surprised, Trent? These High Society folks have been together forever… they know how to work as a cohesive unit.

Mary Jane and Steven Fury get into the ring, pulling Corwin to his feet and congratulating him on his victory. The fans booed as Wallace checked on the bloodied and, likely, concussed Sawyer. The three laughed as the referee assisted Dan by rolling him out of the ring.

Trent Brown: Well the High Society steal one here tonight, putting themselves up 1-0 over the HWA.

Keith Kincaid: It’s not too late to jump on the High Society bandwagon Trent, they got really good benefits…

Trent Brown: Wait… you’re representing them, Keith!? This is supposed to be an HWA event!

Keith Kincaid: Just trying to be impartial…

Before Trent could point out how wrong everything Keith had just said was, he was directed to the ring where a loud “slap” was heard. Wallace found himself on the mat after Mary Jane had ridiculed him once again for allowing the table to be brought into the ring. Having grown tired of verbally berating him, she had now turned to physical assault. Mary Jane laughed as Steven Fury and Corwin Haven flanked her, creating a potential three-on-one scenario for the esteemed HWA official.

Trent Brown: Oh come on now, enough is enough! What reason do they have to attack Wallace; he’s just doing his job!

Keith Kincaid: Clearly they don’t think he was doing a very good one at that.

Before the situation could get any more out of hand, the fans were screaming in excitement as Sawyer rolled into the ring, his famous baseball bat in hand. Corwin turned too late, the bat being driven straight into his gut, doubling him over. Sawyer swung wildly for Fury next, but Steven had pulled Mary Jane with him to safety, the two quickly escaping out of the ring.

Trent Brown: Sawyer has his bat and he is clearing the ring of the High Society!

Keith Kincaid: (sarcastic) Oh great, “Baseball Dan” is back.

Chants of “Deadly One” and “This is Hardcore” rose up from the crowd in attendance as Sawyer turned back to Corwin, hitting Havens with such force that the bat shattered upon impact with his spine. Corwin dropped to the mat and rolled around in agony as Dan looked at the broken remnants of his bat. Seeing that his weapon had now been destroyed, Fury jumped up onto the apron, his eyes locking with Sawyer’s. Dan simply turned to face him, a smirk on his face. Steven seemed to weigh his options as Sawyer lifted his free hand, motioning for him to “try his luck”. Fury thought better of it as he backed down, his presence being enough of a diversion that Corwin had, now, managed to slither out of the ring. The two High Society members went to his aid, pulling him up and helping him back up the ramp as Sawyer lifted the broken baseball bat high above his head, the fans cheering once again.

Trent Brown: It may’ve taken three of them to get the victory over Sawyer tonight but, in the end, he stands triumphant in the center of the ring!

Keith Kincaid: Don’t you have to win a match to be “triumphant” Trent?

Cassandra Starr-Diamond paced nervously in the backstage, her eyes scanning the area around her as if she’s looking for someone or something. At the sight of her, the fans erupt into cheers as chants of “Starr” start up within the sold-out crowd.

Keith Kincaid: Wow! She is looking hot! Almost like she hasn’t aged a day!

Trent Brown: Easy Keith, pretty sure she’s married to Michael Diamond.

Keith Kincaid: Really!? That’s still a thing!?

Michael Diamond came into view as Cassandra looked to him, eager for him to give her some sort of update.

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: Well…?

Michael Diamond: Unless you want to run the “High Society gauntlet”, my meeting with Eric will need to wait… any word from Evan or Tommy? They should’ve been here by now. Maybe with the four of us…

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: Wishful thinking, Diamond. Pretty sure Tommy is on his way to the nearest hospital and Evan could be God knows where.

Michael Diamond: Wait… what!?

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: Divide and conquer, Diamond… the High Society took a page right out of our FoS playbook.

Diamond lowered his head, contemplating their next move, as a loud commotion directed their attention to a nearby catering table… where Dan Sawyer had flipped over the defenseless furniture and its entire garnishes. Cassandra exchanged looks with Michael as Diamond motioned for them to leave “The Deadly One” to his destructive rage. Rather than heed his warning, Cassandra moved closer to Sawyer.

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: I saw what happened out there Dan, you okay?

Sawyer turned around, his eyes going from Cassandra to Michael, then back to her.

Dan Sawyer: If it wasn’t for that fuckin’ Mary Jane…

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: Don’t worry; I’ll be sure to drop MJ on her face for you.

Cassandra gave Sawyer a reassuring smile as Diamond moved closer to his wife.

Michael Diamond: You have nothing to be ashamed of Sawyer. You fought with honor; you did the HWA proud…

Dan Sawyer: If we lose because of me… if the High Society wins…

Dan turned and slammed his fist into the nearby wall as Diamond and Cassandra exchanged worried looks. Michael seemed like he wanted to leave Sawyer to wallow in his sorrow but Starr nudged her husband forward.

Michael Diamond: Look… Dan… the odds were always insurmountable for us. We all knew that coming into this, yet we all still showed up; we’re all still here. The High Society may very well win every one of these matches tonight, but they’re going to have to earn every single one of them… I guarantee that.

Sawyer looked from Michael to Cassandra.

Dan Sawyer: Your brother… he’s going to show, right? I mean, this is it… “The Last Stand”… If anyone can make an entrance, it’s Danny Starr and the FoS. You guys do have some sort of master plan… right?

Cassandra glanced at Michael, then back at Sawyer, doing her best to give him a reassuring smile.

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: Tonight is about more than just the FoS, Dan… it’s about the HWA and ensuring our legacy lives on. What you did out there tonight, well… it was truly “Sensational”.

Cassandra gave him a wink as Michael placed his hand on his wife’s back and lead her out of view as Dan Sawyer stood there, nodding his head in agreement with her words.

Trent Brown: Some powerful and reassuring words from two of the HWA’s best.

Keith Kincaid: If you start singing “We’re All in This Together”, I’m out.

Trent Brown: I didn’t know you were a High School Musical fan, Keith!

A black stretch limo pulls up into the backstage parking lot as the back door opens. The fans cheer and begin another “HWA” chant when Ron Royalty steps out from the vehicle, the years having not been kind to the, once proud, HWA president and owner of the company. Ron offers his hand to someone inside as the female graciously accepts his gesture. Kayle Thomas steps out and stands beside her “man”, as the two walk arm-and-arm towards the arena before they are rudely interrupted by Kayle’s twin sister, Kristin.

Kristin Thomas: Well, well, well… look who came crawling back.

Kayle Thomas: What do you want, Kristin?

Kristin Thomas: Don’t be like that sis; I just can’t believe you’re here! I’ve missed you so much…

Kristin held out her arms as if wanting to embrace her sister in a familial hug but Kayle didn’t take the bait. Kristin pretended to be hurt by this gesture as her eyes turned to Ron Royalty.

Kristin Thomas: Ron… is that you? You’re looking… well… not dead, so I guess that’s something.

Kristin laughed to herself as Kayle glared at her sister. Ron simply shrugged off the comment.

Ron Royalty: Kristin Thomas, I see you’re outside working the corner again.

Kayle laughed as Kristin’s face scrunched up into a scowl, her hand striking Ron across the face with a vicious slap.

Kristin Thomas: You’ve insulted me for the last time Ron; I can’t wait to see what the High Society has in store for you tonight. As for you my dear sweet sister, I would’ve never guessed you’d stoop to such depraved levels and sleep your way to “the top”. Clearly I underestimated you..

Kristin’s words were enough to send Kayle into a frenzy as she lunged forward, tackling her twin to the ground. The two began rolling around, scratching and clawing at whatever exposed skin was available, pulling at each other’s hair. Ron watched this display but for a moment, before sighing and walking into the arena, leaving the Thomas’ twins to handle their affairs in the parking lot.

Keith Kincaid: Wait!? Ron is just going to leave them there!? Doesn’t he know what happens after…!?

Trent Brown: That stuff doesn’t happen in real life Keith…

Keith Kincaid: B-but… twins, Trent!

“Killing Me Slowly” by Bad Wolves hit as Tristan Wolfe emerges from the back, a smirk on his face. He is donned in black full-length tights similar to Shawn Michaels, only with green cloverleaves inside a white outline. He also has black boots, black wristbands, and black wraps around his hands. The fans, especially the female ones, rise to their feet, cheering for the Irish heartthrob.

Erin Wallace: The following match is scheduled for one-fall, making his way to the ring at this time, standing at 5’11” and weighing in at 185lbs… Tristan Wolfe!

He jumps up and down on the stage for a bit, loosening up, before making his way down the ramp, slapping hands with the fans as he does so. Tristan stops to take a selfie with a few of the fans before courteously accepting a free drink from one of his admirers. He rolls into the ring, careful to not spill any of his beer, and goes over to the nearby turnbuckle, pulling himself up to the second rope and looking out at the crowd. Tristan raises the cup high into the air and takes a big drink, saluting the HWA crowd.

Trent Brown: An amazing ovation for one of the later wrestlers to hit the HWA scene!

Keith Kincaid: He’s not that great, just been riding the wake of Syren’s success for years.

Trent Brown: That’s not all he’s been riding, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: Whoa, Trent… this is a family show!

Trent Brown: Wait…what!? No! I didn’t mean it like that… they own a ranch… and they have horses…

As Trent tries to salvage his comment, “Anti You” by Blue Stahli begins to play, changing the cheers to jeers very quickly. Pyros explode through the rafters and all around the entranceway as Jared walks out and bathes in the shower of boos from his detractors and the cheers from his few fans, most of them female.

Erin Wallace: His opponent, standing at 5’9” and weighing in at 182lbs… he is “The Natural Selection”… Jared Sengir!

Jared is wearing white long tights, with a gold tiger stripe design, and black wrestling boots. Also, on the back of his tights, the name “Sengir” is written in red letters. His hands are also wrapped in white tape. He plays to the crowd all the way to the ring, mocking them, before making his way into the ring. Tristan finishes his beer while Jared paces around the ring, ready for the match to start. Wallace signals for the bell as Jared moves in, trash-talking Tristan. Before Jared can react, Tristan spits the beer from his mouth into Sengir’s eyes, immediately following it up with a Stone Cold Stunner.

Trent Brown: “Celtic Cutter”! “Celtic Cutter”! Tristan just hit his finisher right out of the gate and he may’ve stolen one!

Keith Kincaid: That’s not fair! He blinded Jared!

Tristan quickly went for the cover as Wallace dropped down to the mat. One… Two… Three! Wallace went to signal for the bell, before his eyes fell on Jared’s foot, which was somehow on the bottom rope.

Trent Brown: Tristan did it! He beat Jared in a matter of seconds and the HWA is on the board!

Keith Kincaid: Not so fast, Trent… it looks like Sengir is still alive in this one!

Tristan began to celebrate as Wallace waved off the count, signaling that Sengir had managed to break the pin fall. Wolfe looked to the referee in shock, wanting him to raise his hand as the victor. As Cunningham explained the situation, Jared began to stir.

Trent Brown: Looks like Tristan is not happy with this decision.

Keith Kincaid: Wallace doing the right thing, for once.

Tristan pulled Jared to his feet, sending him bounding into the ropes. Wolfe leapt into the air, looking for a Lou Thesz Press, but Jared ducked underneath it. Rebounding off the ropes, Jared leapt into the air, planting a perfect Front Dropkick to Tristan’s chest. The impact forced Tristan back against the ropes as he nearly fell through it, but managed to hold onto the top rope. Using the ropes to propel him forward, Tristan lunged into Jared as Sengir had just kipped back up to his feet, only to be met with a vicious Rebound Lariat, one that sent him flipping down to the mat hard!

Trent Brown: Great action and re-action from both these superstars and Tristan turned Jared inside out with that one!

Tristan quickly goes for the cover once more. One… Two… Kick-out!

Keith Kincaid: Whew, that was too close for comfort!

Trent Brown: Jared still trying to shake off the effects of that early “Celtic Cutter”!

The fans began to start up a small “Tristan” chant as he seemed to be getting annoyed that this match was still going. Frustrated, Wolfe pulled his opponent to his feet again as Jared, out of desperation, raked the eyes of Tristan. You could practically see the claw marks on his face as he stumbled around the ring, nearly blind. Jared wrapped his arms around Tristan’s neck; lifting him into the air and planting him face first into the mat!

Keith Kincaid: An Elevated Flatliner by Jared and, just like that, he’s taken control of this match!

Trent Brown: Don’t forget the blatant rake of the eyes, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: Only fair since Tristan blinded Jared earlier, Trent.

The fans booed as Jared used his foot to roll Tristan onto his back. Sengir, with cat-like speed, leapt up onto the nearby top turnbuckle, his back to the ring as he stared out at the crowd. Playing off their hate, Jared blew them a kiss as he flipped backwards, looking for a Moonsault. Tristan, somewhat aware of what was happening, tried to roll out of the way, but Jared managed to land on his feet and, immediately, flip back into the air, landing a Standing Moonsault on Tristan, covering him for the pin.

Trent Brown: An amazing Moonsault Feint from Jared, what amazing athleticism!

Keith Kincaid: This guy is inhuman, Trent! Best high-flyer we’ve ever seen!

Wallace dropped to the mat, making the count. One… Two… Kick-out! Tristan managed to get a shoulder up as a collective sigh of relief escaped the lips of the crowd in attendance. Jared simply smiled, almost pleased that the match would continue. Rolling onto the apron, Sengir mocked the crowd once more as Tristan slowly pushed himself to his feet.

Keith Kincaid: Get your cameras ready! We’re about to see “The Natural Selection” doing what he does best!

Jared eagerly hopped up and down on the apron as he waited for his moment to strike. Leaping up onto the top rope, he launched himself through the air, driving his forearm right into Tristan’s face with a Springboard Phenomenal Forearm!

Keith Kincaid: “Final Shot”! “Final Shot”! Jared hits it and this one is over, Trent!

Jared slithers into the cover, hooking the leg for good measure. One… Two… Thr-kick-out!

Trent Brown: Tristan kicked out! Tristan kicked out of the” Final Shot”!

Keith Kincaid: What!? No! That was a slow count!

Sengir’s smile was wiped from his face as he looked at Wallace, beginning to get frustrated. Slapping his hand on the mat, Jared walked over to the corner, crouching down as he stalked Tristan. Wolfe gradually got a knee, only to have Sengir rush in, twirling through the air and kicking Tristan in the side of the head!

Trent Brown: A perfect Tornado Enziguri by Jared and Tristan might be knocked out!

Keith Kincaid: That was a vicious kick, Trent!

Jared thought about going for the cover, but decided he hadn’t inflicted enough punishment yet. Grabbing Tristan, he pulled his body closer to one of the turnbuckles. Leaping up onto it once more, Jared took a moment to bask in his glory as he looked out at the crowd.

Keith Kincaid: Have to believe that Jared is going for the “Great Descent” here, Trent!

Trent Brown: This could be the beginning of the end for Tristan!

Sensing that very same thing, Tristan – somehow - managed to kip up to his feet and rush towards Jared, catching him off guard. Before Sengir could react, Tristan had leapt into the air, wrapped his arm around Jared’s neck, and draped his legs across the top rope. Bouncing off the rope, the momentum was enough to send Tristan flipping backwards, bringing Jared crashing down off the top rope and to the mat below with a Springboard Spanish Fly!

Trent Brown: “Wolfe’s Bane”! “Wolfe’s Bane”! Tristan just hit the “Wolfe’s Bane” off the top rope! I’ve never seen anything like that before!

A “holy shit” chant started up as Tristan collected himself enough to drape an arm over Jared’s body. Wallace dropped to the mat as the fans counted with his hand. One… Two… Thr-kick-out!

Trent Brown: I don’t believe it! Jared kicked out!

Keith Kincaid: Whew, that was a close one… almost lost out on some money in Vegas with that one, Trent.

Tristan looked up in shock, unable to believe that this match was still continuing. The fans started up a “Tristan” chant as he staggered to his feet, stalking his prey. Jared, still a bit dazed from his fall from the top, slowly got up. Tristan looked to hit another “Wolfe’s Bane”, hooking his arm under Jared’s neck, but Sengir desperately battled back, throwing a few elbows that forced Tristan away. Wolfe, however, responded with a solid headbutt to the side of Jared, dazing both men. Tristan quickly shook off the cobwebs, hooking his arm again and lifting Sengir up for an Irish Curse Backbreaker. Jared, however, used his agility to flip backwards out of the move, catching Tristan flat-footed. Sengir turned and leapt onto the second rope, twisting back towards Tristan in hopes of connecting on a Springboard Hurricanrana. Wolfe had regained his footing, though, and caught Sengir in a powerbomb-type hold. Instead of dropping him onto his back, Tristan flipped Jared backwards so he landed face-first in front of him as he kicked Sengir in the gut and went for another “Celtic Cross”. In a last ditch attempt, Jared shoved Tristan away from him as Wolfe inadvertently collided with Wallace, knocking the referee to the ground.

Trent Brown: An amazing display of counter-after-counter and now Cunningham is down!

Keith Kincaid: That should be a disqualification, Trent! Tristan is assaulting our very own officials now!

Tristan looked down at the referee in shock as Jared waited for his moment to strike. Sengir bounced off the ropes as Wolfe turned around to meet his opponent, watching as Jared leapt into the air, looking to flip over Tristan. Wolfe, though, managed to turn to the side and catch Sengir on his shoulders, not letting him get away. Quickly, Tristan ran and slammed Sengir back-first onto the mat, Wolfe landing on top of Jared at the same time.

Trent Brown: Jared looking for the “Natural Selection” but Tristan managed to counter into a devastating Death Valley Bomb!

Wolfe thought about going for the cover but still saw that Wallace was down. Instead, Tristan played to the crowd a bit before turning his attention back to his opponent, walking over to Jared. Gripping Sengir’s legs into a Texas Cloverleaf, Tristan turned Jared onto his belly, locking the submission move in.

Trent Brown: And now Tristan with the “Cloverleaf” locked in and Jared’s tapping out!

Jared was, indeed, tapping to the submission move but Wallace was still down and out, unable to verify the tap out victory. At this moment, Jared’s wife, Scarlett Rayne Sengir, rushed to the ring.

Keith Kincaid: So good to see Scarlett coming down to make sure her husband was okay!

Scarlett had other plans in mind as she jumped up onto the ring apron and quickly ascended to the top turnbuckle. Catching movement out of the corner of his eye, Tristan released the “Cloverleaf” and turned to see Scarlett leap off the top rope and drive her knees into his face and chest!

Trent Brown: A Diving Metora from the top rope and the High Society numbers game has struck again!

Scarlett checked on her husband before sliding out of the ring before Wallace had a chance to see her. Cunningham began to regain his bearings as Jared crawled over to make the cover on Tristan.

Trent Brown: You’ve got to be kidding me, not like this!

Keith Kincaid: Looks like the High Society about to go up 2-0 to the HWA, Trent.

One... Two… Kick-out! The fans erupted into cheers as Tristan managed to… at the last second… forcefully shove Jared off of him as Sengir rolled across the ring.

Trent Brown: Yes! Tristan is still in this!

Jared crawled to where his wife was waiting outside the ring, talking strategy as Tristan collected himself. As impossible as it seems, the crowd’s cheer got even louder as Syren came running down the ramp, her sights set on Scarlett.

Keith Kincaid: Wait a minute, what is Syren doing here!?

Trent Brown: You didn’t seem to have any issue when Scarlett interfered.

Keith Kincaid: Don’t get me wrong, I’m never upset to see Syren…

Jared tried to warn his wife as she turned to face Syren, walking right into a devastating Sling Blade!

Trent Brown: “Lasso”! “Lasso”! Syren lays out Scarlett with the “Lasso” and evens the odds!

Chants for “Syren” stir up amongst the crowd as Jared yells and curses at her for laying her hands on his wife. Syren leaps up onto the apron, ready to confront Sengir as he cautiously steps back. A smirk comes across her face as Tristan rushes in, looking to catch Jared from behind. Sengir, sensing it was coming, manages to dodge to the side as Tristan comes inches from crashing into his wife. Wolfe makes sure she is okay as Wallace orders Syren from the apron. Turning around, Tristan walks into a vicious kick to the nether regions from Jared, one that went undetected by the official as he was ensuring Syren complied with his request.

Trent Brown: A blatant low blow by Jared!

Keith Kincaid: Everything’s legal if the referee doesn’t see it, Trent.

Sengir ran against the ropes, bouncing off them and flipping over Tristan, driving his knees directly into the back and neck of Wolfe with a brutal Kairopractor!

Keith Kincaid: There it is, Trent… “Natural Selection”! It looks like Tristan’s luck just ran out.

Syren could do nothing but watch as Jared crawled into the cover, his eyes locking with hers as Wallace dropped to the mat for the count. One… Two… Three!

Trent Brown: Jared wins, another stolen victory for the High Society…

The fans all exhaled in disappointment as Sengir winked at Syren, infuriating her further. She didn’t wait for Cunningham to raise his hand as she slid into the ring, rushing at him. Jared went for a spin kick but Syren ducked underneath it, running to the ropes and leaping up onto the second rope. She looked back for just a moment before leaping backwards, landing on Jared’s shoulders. Falling backwards, she spiked Jared down hard onto the top of his head with an insane Springboard Poison Rana!

Trent Brown: An amazing move from Syren there!

Keith Kincaid: I said it earlier Trent, ain’t no better high flyer than Syren.

Syren had very little time to celebrate as she turned around and was met with a stiff kick from the recovered Scarlett. She lifted Syren up into a powerbomb type move, before letting Syren dangle back towards the ground. Scarlett then lunged forward violently, planting Syren face-first into the mat with a Styles Clash!

Trent Brown: Oh my God, the “Last Lie” and Syren may be hurt here!

Keith Kincaid: I feel like I’ve seen a move like that before Trent… minus the whole face-breaking impact I mean.

Scarlett helped her husband to her feet as the two looked down at their destruction. Whispering something into Jared’s ear, a grin came across his face as he nodded in agreement. Jared went over to the nearest turnbuckle as Scarlett got down on the mat, her hands going around Tristan’s neck as she started to choke the life out of him.

Trent Brown: What the hell is this!? Enough is enough!

Jared leapt up onto the top rope and balanced with ease on the turnbuckle as he watched his wife strangle his defeated victim. Sengir seemed to derive pleasure out of watching Tristan’s face turn blue as Scarlett looked up at Jared, a twinkle in her eye. At that moment, Scarlett relinquished her hold and moved off to the side as Jared leapt off, twisted in the air, and crashed down onto Tristan’s body with a picture-perfect Red Arrow!

Keith Kincaid: The “Great Descent” connects this time, Trent!

Trent Brown: There’s no need for this damn it, the match is over!

Keith Kincaid: All about sending a message…

Jared clutched at his ribs, the high impact having left its mark on him as well. Scarlett helped her husband to his feet, planting a seductive kiss on Jared’s lips as the fans booed heavily at the High Society’s actions. Sengir motioned to Syren, who was beginning to stir. Scarlett smiled as she went over to her, grabbing Syren’s jaw and screaming insults at the defenseless woman. Throwing Syren’s head back down to the mat, Scarlett motioned for Jared to go get her something from the timekeeper’s area. As Jared did as he was instructed, Scarlett dropped a pair of double knees onto Syren’s gut, immediately rolled through, and flipped backwards, dropping knees onto Syren once again.

Trent Brown: And now “Injury to Insult” by Scarlett to Syren and enough is enough here!

Jared returned with a microphone, presenting it to Scarlett as if she were of royalty.

Scarlett Rayne Sengir: I tried to warn you what would happen when you interfere in our business Syren… you really should’ve heeded our warning and stayed on your Ranch! Speaking of which…

Scarlett dug into her back pocket, un-crumpling some piece of paper.

Scarlett Rayne Sengir: … you know this deed to your house that I hold in my hand? Well, I think it’s time we see just how much you’re willing to sacrifice because tonight, our match isn’t going to be just any “normal” match… oh no, it’s going to be a ladder match!

Keith Kincaid: Yes! Bra and Panties! Bra and Panties!

Trent Brown: Uh… Keith, she said “ladder match”. It’s 2020, they don’t do those types of matches anymore…

Keith Kincaid: What!? Seriously!? No more “pillow fight” matches… or “jello pool” matches… or “mud pit” matches… or “evening gown” matches…?

As Keith continued to ramble off his list of sexually degrading matches, Scarlett continued.

Scarlett Rayne Sengir: Tonight, the better woman is going to come out on top, Syren! And once I’ve climbed up that ladder, snatched the deed to your ranch, you’ll be nothing more than a homeless, washed-up, worthless little bitch! But don’t worry Syren, I’ll be sure to take “real good care” of your husband afterwards.

Scarlett smirked as she threw the mic down onto Syren’s prone body. The fans rained down boos and “High Society sucks” chants as she and Jared embraced in the ring once more, leaving the duo of Tristan and Syren lying, the HWA now down 2-0 to the High Society.

Ron Royalty walks through the hallway, a worn-down look on his face as the event staff and backstage personnel clap their hands and shout out his name. Ron seems to cringe at their admirations but smiles all the same. Stopping at his locker room, Royalty swings open the door. His eyes go wide as his bag slips from his shoulders, his face twisting to one of utter disgust and fury. As he goes in, we see what Royalty is looking at, the walls of his personal locker room defaced with words such as “traitor”, “drunkard”, “washed-up”, “unworthy”, and “murderer”. In addition to these slanderous words, there appears to be multiple newspaper articles taped to the walls, all of them addressing the untimely and disgraceful death of Samantha Morgan; her demise seemingly linked to an overdose of pain medications. Enraged, Ron grabs at the articles, ripping and tearing them from his wall, until there is nothing but shreds of paper left strewn about. Royalty drops to his knees, burying his face into his hands, sobbing loudly. Out of respect, the camera backs away as the door closes, leaving Ron to his misery.

Trent Brown: Such a despicable act by the High Society…

Keith Kincaid: I, for one, am speechless Trent; just simply tragic… the story of the death of HWA’s own Samantha Morgan. I really don’t know what to say to that, very tasteless by whoever did that.

Trent Brown: Oh we damn well know who did it, Keith.

The scene changes as the fans try to digest the somber scene they had just witnessed. Seeing Michael Diamond is enough to brighten a few of their spirits, a few cheers stemming from those in attendance. “Your Hero” seems to be continuing his search for the ever-elusive Eric Rayne, stopping short before a familiar face. Boos rise up from the crowd as Michael stands face-to-face with Ryan Maxem.

Ryan Maxem: Well if it isn’t my hero… (slapping Diamond on the arm)… how’ve ya been!?

Michael Diamond: What do you want, Maxem?

Ryan Maxem: Why Michael, is that any way to treat a fellow Militia member? I mean, after all… we were the most dominating faction the HWA had ever seen since, well… the FoS.

A smirk crept across Maxem’s lips a Diamond narrowed his eyes at his former stablemate.

Michael Diamond: The only thing “dominating” I remember about the Militia is when I dominated your ass and took the HWA World Championship from you.

Now it was Diamond’s time to grin as Maxem’s face contorted into one of rage at that reminder. Ryan cracked his neck as he took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down.

Ryan Maxem: That was a hell-of-a-match Diamond; won best match of the year if I remember correctly. You showed me and the world just who you are, got nothing but respect for you.

Maxem offered his hand to Michael as Diamond looked down at it, wondering what type of trick this was.

Ryan Maxem: Come on man, don’t leave me hanging.

Michael Diamond: You’re kidding, right? You really think I would shake your hand, especially after everything you’ve done?

Maxem let his hand fall to his side as he glanced around him, making sure no one else was around in earshot, before leaning in close to Diamond.

Ryan Maxem: Sometimes you’ve got to do whatever it takes Michael, you know that better than anyone. I’m not going to try and justify my actions to you, there is no excuse for the things I’ve done… however there is a much bigger picture at play here Diamond. So you may think you know what’s going on, but you know nothing.

Maxem goes to leave but Diamond wraps his hand around his wrist, keeping him in place.

Michael Diamond: Okay then Maxem, I’ll bite… what’s the end game here?

A sly smile creeps across Ryan’s lips.

Ryan Maxem: You want Eric Rayne, right? I know where he is.

Maxem pulled away from Diamond and began to walk down the hallway. Michael paused for a moment, unsure if he wanted to follow, but – against his better judgement – did so. Eventually, Ryan stops in front of a very plain, undescriptive door. Diamond looked at Maxem suspiciously, but Ryan simply shrugged his shoulders. Desperate to find Eric, Michael kicked the door in and walked into the room, expecting a High Society ambush. Instead, he found just an empty room… no High Society, and no Eric Rayne. Too late did he realize his mistake, as he turned to face Maxem, only to get a brutal Helluva Kick to the skull! Diamond dropped to the floor as the fans boo at the actions of the HWA traitor. Maxem laughs to himself as he pulls out a pair of handcuffs, grabbing Michael and forcing him over to a wall. Latching them on Diamond’s wrist, he connects the other end to a railing, before giving Diamond’s head one last slam into the wall.

Ryan Maxem: Always playing the hero, Diamond… so gullible, so predictable. I’ll give Eric Rayne your regards.

Michael slumped against the wall as Maxem exited the room, laughing at his handiwork. Closing the door behind him, Ryan locked the door and disappeared out of sight.

Trent Brown: A sneak attack by Maxem and now Diamond is… well… I don’t know where he is!

Keith Kincaid: He’s somewhere in the building Trent, obviously.

“Make or Break” by The Ghost Inside begins playing as the fans rise to their feet, eager to see the next bout between the HWA vs. High Society.

Trent Brown: First Royalty, now Diamond… things are not looking good for the HWA here, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: Don’t forget they trail 2-0 to High Society, Trent.

The music continues to play over the loud speakers but there is no sign of Evan Blane. The fans exchanged confused looks as, after a moment, “Make or Break” stops playing.

Trent Brown: Sorry about that folks, we must be experiencing some technical issues; in all fairness, it has been awhile since we’ve been on the air…

Before Trent can continue, the body of Evan Blane is imperiously sent flying through the backstage curtain! The fans all gasp in horror at the sight of Blane, his face a crimson mask of blood. As if on cue, “Bring Back the Glory – Counterstrike Remix” by Zardonic and Voicians hits as Johnathon Keeper steps through the curtain, brushing his hands off, admiring his handiwork.

Trent Brown: Oh you’ve got to be kidding me, now they’re resorting to attacking people before the match has even started!?

Keith Kincaid: The High Society plays to win, Trent… wish I could say the same for the HWA.

Johnathon takes a glance down at the broken body of Blane, before walking past him. He stands on the stage as bolts of blue and purple lighting streak down, striking all around him. Johnathon emerges from the smoke, a sinister smile on his face. Keeper wears full length black tights with dark blue and purple electrical current intertwined. He has a black vest with a dark blue and purple cyclone on the chest, black boots that the bottoms light up and change colors between dark blue and purple, and black bracers. In a sprint, Johnathon runs to the ring in and slides under the ropes. He runs to the corner and pulls himself to the top, perching atop the turnbuckle and looking out at the crowd. Johnathon does a back flip off the turnbuckle and then takes a seat in the middle of the ring, awaiting his opponent.

Keith Kincaid: Johnathon Keeper is one of the most technically sound wrestlers the world has ever seen, Trent… but did you see that agility off the top rope!?

“Bring Back the Glory” ceases to play, causing the booing and “asshole” chants directed at Johnathon to become amplified that much more by the lack of music drowning out the noise. He seems to block this all out as Evan barely stirs on the ramp, trying to push himself to his feet. Blane is dressed in his usual attire, long black and red MMA shorts with TRF'ND on the back and an EB logo on the right leg, his outfit complete with black wrestling boots and black kick pads. He also appears to be wearing a DonJoy stabilizer knee brace on the right leg, his years of wrestling having – clearly – taken its toll on his body. Though he still fits nicely into his attire, it is torn and ripped in many places, a result of the backstage beat down he had suffered at the hands of the High Society.

Trent Brown: Evan Blane looks like he can’t even make it to his feet, how the hell is he going to compete in this match!?

Evan finally got to his feet, the blood flowing freely from multiple cuts on his face, almost as if he had been thrown through a glass window. Barely able to keep his balance, Blane stumbled down the ramp, almost as if it was second nature. With each step he took, the fans cheered, chants of “Blane” rising up from the crowd. By the time he got to the ring apron, Blane was forced to lean against it for support as his eyes locked with Johnathon, who had been sitting cross-legged this whole time, patiently waiting his victim. Keeper mocked Blane, motioning with his hand to “bring it” as he pushed himself to his feet. Enraged, Evan slid into the ring and rushed forward, only to be lifted up and dropped down hard, Johnathon’s knee connecting with Blane’s testicles. The wind gushed out of him as Keeper swept Evan’s legs from him and leapt up into the air, dropping his legs down in Blane’s nether regions once more.

Trent Brown: An Inverted Atomic Drop and Leg Drop combo by Johnathon and this is going too far!

Keith Kincaid: Under normal circumstances, probably would’ve been a disqualification Trent but the bell hasn’t even rung yet! So… two “low blows” for the price of one!

Blane struggled to catch his breath as he grasped at his crotch. Wallace forced Keeper to back away, allowing Evan a chance to recover. Cunningham persistently asked Blane if he wanted to forfeit the match but, each time, Evan defiantly shook his head.

Trent Brown: A lot of heart from Evan Blane here, but I really don’t know if this is the best thing for him here. He’s lost a lot of blood, Keith… this is hard to watch.

Keith Kincaid: Not the smartest move by Blane, for sure… but Keeper will make quick work of him, Trent… so it’ll be over before you know it.

Evan crawled to the ropes, pulling himself up as Wallace checked one last time. Barely able to stand, Blane wiped the blood from his eyes as he looked at the referee, instructing him to “start the fucking match”. Cunningham, reluctantly, did as he was told as Keeper smiled to himself once more, the bell ringing seemingly signaling the beginning of the end for “The Real F’N Deal”. Before Evan even had a chance to react, Johnathon was on him, grabbing Blane and quickly slamming him down hard onto the mat.

Trent Brown: A Snap Suplex by Keeper and he’s already going for the cover!

Keith Kincaid: Told you that this one would be over quick, Trent!

One… kick-out! Keeper shrugged his shoulders as Evan shook his head, trying to shake the cobwebs off. Johnathon didn’t give Blane a moment to breathe, pulling him to his feet and wrapping his arms around Evan. Keeper fell backwards, flipping Blane over him and dropping him hard onto his back again.

Trent Brown: And now an Overhead Belly-to-Belly Suplex and, again, Keeper into the cover!

One… kick-out! The fans started the “Blane” chant up again as Keeper seemed to be enjoying that this match was going to continue.

Keith Kincaid: Blane should just take the pin fall and save himself from any more damage at the hands of Keeper, but I’m not complaining. Johnathon is one of the best technical wrestlers alive today, Trent… we’re in for a treat!

Again, Keeper didn’t give Blane a moment of reprieve as he pulled Evan to his feet. Grabbing Blane’s arm, he Irish whipped him roughly into the corner, as Evan went sternum first into the post. Blane stumbled backwards as Johnathon wrapped his arms around Evan again. Rolling backwards, he brought Evan with him as Keeper managed to roll though to his feet, dragging Blane for the ride, building up enough momentum to allow him to lift Evan up and drop him unceremoniously onto the back of his head with the O’Connor Roll German Suplex!

Keith Kincaid: The “Raging Suplex” by Johnathon and this one is over!

One… Two… Kick-out! This pin fall was much closer, as Blane now grabbed at the back of his head. Johnathon seemed a bit disappointed that his signature move didn’t seal the deal, but simply bounced back up to his feet. Keeper stalked Evan, waiting for him to rise back up to his feet. Dazed, Blane stumbled up into Johnathon as Keeper attacked from behind, grabbing Evan’s arms and turning his body, so that Blane’s head was directly into the back of Keeper, his arms held out to the side.

Trent Brown: Johnathon Keeper looking for the “Cyclone” here and this could be it!

Keeper began to start twisting his body, getting ready to deliver the Rolling Unprettier to Blane, but Evan slipped out of Johnathon’s grasp, managing to pull one of Keeper’s arms in-between his very own legs. Before Johnathon knew what was happening, Blane was lifting him into the air, spinning him around, and dropping him face-first into the mat with a Pumphandle Reverse STO!

Trent Brown: “Seal the Deal”! “Seal the Deal”! And no, I’m not just telling Blane to pin Johnathon here… Evan countered the “Cyclone” into the “Seal the Deal” and both men are down!

Keith Kincaid: No! I wanted to see Blane’s face get smashed!

Johnathon lay face first into the mat as Blane lay on his back, staring up into the lights. Wallace began to count as both men seemed lifeless on the mat. One… Two… Three…

Trent Brown: Come on Evan, get up!

Keith Kincaid: You do know what the word “impartial” means, right Trent?

Trent Brown: You’re one to talk, Keith!

Four… Five… Six… Evan began to stir, moving just enough that he managed to crawl over to Johnathon, roll Keeper onto his back, and drape an arm over him. Wallace changed his count from the “count out” and dropped to the mat, making the pin attempt. One… Kick-out!

Trent Brown: Damn it! Not even a two count!

Keith Kincaid: Johnathon Keeper is just too good for Evan Blane!

Blane rolled to the side, using the ropes to pull himself up as Johnathon slowly began to stir. Evan looked to Keeper, desperation in his eyes. Stumbling over to Johnathon, Blane pulled Keeper to his feet, somehow finding the strength to lift him up and place him up on his shoulders.

Trent Brown: Evan looking to end it here with the “Real Deal Driver”!

Realizing the precarious predicament he was in, Johnathon quickly slipped out of Evan’s grasp, landing behind Blane and, in the same motion, leaping up and pulling Blane back-first onto his knees with a Backstabber!

Keith Kincaid: Johnathon counters the “Real Deal Driver” into the “Whiplash” and this HAS to be over!

Blane lay unmoving on the canvas as Keeper made a lackadaisical cover, calculating the number of times Wallace’s hand hit the mat with his fingers. One… Two… Thr-kick-out! The fans erupted into cheers as Johnathon looked at Wallace in shock.

Trent Brown: Yes! Evan Blane kicked out! The HWA is still alive!

Keeper rose to his feet, getting in Cunningham’s face as they began to debate whether or not it was a three count. As Evan tried to collect himself, Tony Gold ran down the ramp, a gold steel chair in hand.

Trent Brown: (disappointed) Oh great, here we go again!

Keith Kincaid: Strength in numbers, Trent. The High Society knows that superior odds are everything.

Tony jumped up onto the apron, trying to get his ally’s attention but, instead, drawing the ire of Wallace Cunningham. The referee got in the face of Gold as Keeper walked over to “The Real F’N Deal”, slowly pulling the near comatose body of Evan to his feet. Tony’s distraction seemed to backfire as Evan balled up his fist, dropped to his knees, and dealt a vicious low blow to Johnathon. Keeper seemed to scream a few octaves higher as Blane popped back up to his feet, lifted Johnathon onto his shoulders, interlocked Keeper’s legs together, and spun him around, dropping Johnathon onto the back of his head with a devastating Cross-Legged Samoan Driver!

Trent Brown: “Real Deal Driver”! “Real Deal Driver”! Evan hits the “Real Deal Driver” and this one should be over!

Keith Kincaid: Maybe, but Wallace is still distracted by Tony Gold!

Blane remains holding the pinning combination for a few seconds, before looking up to see why the referee wasn’t counting the pin. As Evan releases the hold on Keeper and staggers to his feet, he is suddenly ambushed from behind by Ryan Maxem, who had run through the crowd and slid into the ring! Maxem lifts Evan up from behind, spinning him around and dropping him hard onto the back of his head with a Sidewinder Suplex!

Trent Brown: What the hell!? Ryan Maxem!? Where did he come from!?

Keith Kincaid: Maxem with the “Maxemum Effect” on Evan and there can be no doubt now where his loyalties lie, Trent!

Maxem glared down at the damn-near unconscious Evan Blane for a moment, before turning around and sliding back out of the ring. Ryan slipped over the barricade and walked through the crowd as the fans booed him and threatened to strike him. None did, however, as the big man made his way through the fans, never looking back. Tony finally dropped off the apron as he unfolded the golden chair and decided to sit down and watch the rest of the action from ringside. Gold clapped and cheered on his ally as Keeper slowly started to pull himself up. Johnathon got to his feet, looking down to see Blane motionless on the mat. Keeper looked over to Tony, who simply gave his friend a reassuring “thumbs up”. A wicked smile came across Johnathon’s face as he grabbed Evan by the hair and pulled him to his feet once more.

Trent Brown: And now what the hell does Johnathon have in mind here!?

Keith Kincaid: I think we’re about to see the most “electrifying” move in wrestling, today!

Keeper locked Evan’s arms again and positioned Blane’s head into his back. He held this pose for a moment, looking out at the crowd as if he wanted to savor this moment. Twisting his body, the two men spun through the air before Evan landed face-first into the mat from a sickening Rolling Unprettier.

Keith Kincaid: There it is, Trent! The “Cyclone”! What a finisher!

Johnathon struggled to roll Blane onto his back, his body having gone rigid from the impact of the “Cyclone”. Keeper made a careless cover once more as Wallace got down and made the count. One… Two… Three! Cunningham called for the bell as the fans in attendance groaned once more.

Trent Brown: Damn it! Another victory for the High Society here!

Keith Kincaid: And, for those of you keeping score, that is now High Society “3”… HWA “0”.

Tony rose up from his chair, giving Johnathon a standing ovation as Wallace went to check on the state of Blane. Keeper stopped the referee from checking on his opponent as he demanded that his hand be raised first. Wallace obliged the cocky superstar before going back to doing his job. Tony grabbed the chair and slid into the ring, giving Johnathon a hug as the two jumped up and down like they had just won the World Championship. Cunningham, concerned for Evan, called to ringside for medical personnel to come down and tend to the injured Blane. Tony Gold, however, scared Wallace out of the ring, threatening to hit him with the chair.

Trent Brown: Oh come on now, enough is enough! Evan Blane hasn’t even moved since being hit with the “Cyclone”! He’s out cold!

Keith Kincaid: I don’t think the High Society knows when to quit, Trent… part of what makes them so successful, yet dangerous. You sure you don’t want to switch sides?

Tony Gold motioned for Keeper to pull Blane up as he wrapped his fingers tightly around his golden chair. Johnathon nodded in approval as he walked over to Evan, grabbing him by his blood soaked hair. Slowly, he began to pull Blane off the mat as it seemed to take all of Keeper’s energy just to lift Blane’s body to his knees. Keeper shook his head to Gold, seemingly indicating that this was as far as he could go as Evan seemed to be completely comatose.

Trent Brown: The man is unconscious for God’s sake! Don’t do this!

Gold shrugged his shoulders as Johnathon did his best to steady Blane, holding his arms behind his back as he was completely helpless. Fans began an “asshole” chant directed at the two High Society members as Tony slammed the chair hard down against the mat, trying to rouse Blane from his slumber. Evan’s eyes were glazed over as he did his best to open them, the blood flowing freely down his face.

Trent Brown: This is sick, almost unwatchable!

Tony lifted the chair high above his head and brought his arms down, only to realize that the golden chair was no longer in his possession. The fans cheered loudly as Gold spun around, coming face to face with “The Deadly One” Dan Saywer.

Trent Brown: It’s Dan Sawyer! Sawyer’s got Tony’s golden chair!

Keith Kincaid: How does this lumberjack keeping getting into the ring!?

A “Sawyer” chant rained down as Dan looked at the golden weapon in his hand. Keeper let Blane slump to the mat as he went and stood hazardously behind Gold, showing support for Tony but also keeping an eye for the nearest exit in case things got too heated.

Trent Brown: Sawyer has come to the aid of Blane, but it’s still a two-on-one situation… Evan is in no condition to help!

Sawyer looked from Tony, to Johnathon, and then to the chair in his hand. Deciding that he didn’t need the weapon, Dan tossed the chair to the side as Gold and Keeper laughed to each other.

Keith Kincaid: What an idiot! At least with the chair, he stood a chance against these two!

Keeper seemed to find his courage once more as he brushed past Gold, moving to attack Sawyer. Dan, however, had another weapon in mind, as he reached his hand up and over his back, pulling forth another baseball bat! Too late did Johnathon realize the danger he was in as Sawyer brought the weapon smashing down into Keeper’s face, the bat breaking from the impact and sending wood pieces splintering across the ring.

Trent Brown: Who needs a chair when you have a baseball bat, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: Oh no, not “Baseball Dan”!

The “This is Hardcore” chants start up as Keeper instantly crumples to the ground, grabbing at his face and his eyes, wooden splinters embedded in both. Tony quickly drops to the mat and pulls his ally to safety as Dan stands tall in the ring, kneeling down to check on the fallen Evan Blane.

Trent Brown: Thank God for Dan Sawyer, or this could’ve been a lot worse!

Keith Kincaid: Worse!? Look at what he did to Keeper! I sure hope Johnathon is okay… he hasn’t paid me my royalty checks for the “Sonic Boost” energy drink yet…

Gold assists an apparently blind Johnathon up the ramp as medical personnel rush out, ignoring Keeper’s plight and moving towards the ring to check on Evan Blane. Tony shoots them all a dirty look at their disrespect and lack of empathy for his stablemate as Sawyer rises to his feet, staring down Gold from the ring. Tony shouts something about “this isn’t over” as a smile simply creeps across Dan’s face, nodding his head in agreement.

Tristan Wolfe sat on the examination bed as one of the local doctors took a look at his back and neck region, having him doing various exercises to see if he could move his shoulders and hands. Syren stood nearby, a worried look on her face.

Tristan Wolfe: Ah told ye doc, it was just a bit of numbness…

Syren: (interrupting) Just let the doctor do his thing, Tris.

Tristan Wolfe: Feck that, we need to get you ready for…

Tristan winced in pain as he turned his head towards the doctor, who clearly did something he shouldn’t have during his examination. The doctor backed away as Wolfe tried to get a handle on his Irish temper.

Doctor: Best guess… could be a herniated disc.

Tristan Wolfe: Best guess…!?

Doctor: We should really get you to the hospital, do some further tests.

Tristan Wolfe: I’m fine…

Tristan tried to move off the bed, but seemed unable to stand properly as Syren was able to catch him before he fell over. She gently placed him back on the bed as Wolfe simply succumbed to the pain, allowing himself to lie down.

Doctor: Maybe it’s a spinal fracture…?

Syren: Do you know anything!?

Doctor: I’m sorry ma’am; again… we’re very limited here. He needs to go to the hospital…

Tristan Wolfe: (taking Syren’s hand) Feck that, I’m not going anywhere… not until after you’ve beaten Scarlett and taken back the deed to our home.

Syren: Tristan… I felt barely ready to be back inside a wrestling ring, but a ladder match? I’m not prepared for this…

Tristan Wolfe: You can do this Sy, I know you can. Now go show the world what I already know.

Syren, not completely convinced, nodded her head and gave Tristan a quick kiss on the cheek. As she exited the medical station, Tony Gold and Johnathon Keeper burst in.

Tony Gold: Medic! I need a medic!

Doctor: I’m a med… er… doctor, what seems to be the problem?

Johnathon Keeper: I’m blind! Oh God, I can’t see!

Tony helped Johnathon over to a nearby exam table as he laid him down while the doctor assessed the damage. Sure enough, Keeper had splinters of the broken baseball bat rooted into his cheeks, forehead, and eyes. Gold looked nervously over the doctor as he examined the new patient.

Doctor: I don’t see any long term effects here but I’ll need to run some tests just to be safe. Now then, where did I put those pair of tweezers…?

Johnathon Keeper: (scared) Tony, man… stay with me, please. I don’t want to be alone.

Tony Gold: (slowly backing away) You know I got you man, but my match is up next…

Johnaton Keeper: Please Tony! Don’t leave me alone in the dark like this!

Tony Gold: Don’t worry man, you’re in good hands. You’re going to be okay, Doc is gonna fix you right up.

Johnathon Keeper: At least let the others know what happened to me, okay? Tell them to visit me, please. Tony…? Are you there…?

Tony was long gone, leaving Johnathon in his vulnerable state of blindness. Johnathon frantically thrashed about on the bed before his hand fell on Tristan’s.

Johnathon Keeper: (relieved) Oh thank goodness, I thought you left me man.

Tristan looked down at Johnathon’s hand on his for a moment, before pulling it away abruptly.

Tristan Wolfe: This is mah hell…

Trent Brown: Tristan appears to be dealing with some ill effects following his match up with Jared Sengir.

Keith Kincaid: And now Johnathon Keeper is back there, too… poor guy!

Trent Brown: If the aftermath of our last match is any indication, I’m sure Evan Blane will be back there shortly too.

Keith Kincaid: I don’t think our infirmary is large enough to house all these superstars, Trent.

Jared Sengir and Scarlett Rayne Sengir are walking down the hall as the fans boo their appearance.

Jared Sengir: All I’m saying is… “I’ll take real good care of you” can mean a lot of different things.

Scarlett Rayne Sengir: Oh God, when are you going to let this go Jared? Does it really matter what I meant by that?

Jared Sengir: Are you seriously asking me that question…?

Scarlett Rayne Sengir: Come on Jared, do you really believe that I would cheat on you, and with Tristan Wolfe of all people?

Jared Sengir: Again… are you seriously asking me that question?

Before Scarlett had a chance to respond, she turned the corner and bumped into Cassandra Starr, who had been rounding the corner at the same time. Scarlett nearly toppled over from the impact and very well might have, had it not been for Jared grabbing ahold of his wife.

Scarlett Rayne Sengir: Hey, watch where you’re…

Scarlett stopped short, suddenly recognizing the person standing before her.

Scarlett Rayne Sengir: Well… if it isn’t Danny’s little sister.

Cassandra Starr: (narrowing her eyes) Well if isn’t Eric Rayne’s little sister…

Neither appreciated the reference of the others family as the two women stood inches from each other’s faces. Jared, apprehensively, began to pull his wife away.

Jared Sengir: Now that we’ve properly established each other’s lineage, I say we scurry off my dear… you have a very important match to prepare for, remember?

Scarlett Rayne Sengir: (trying to regain her composure) Yes… of course, how silly of me. I’m sure we’ll have time to finish “this” later.

Scarlett winked at Cassandra as the Sengir’s continued on down the hallway. Starr watched until they were out of sight before she continued on her journey of finding her misplaced husband. Coming to the same undescriptive door she had seen Maxem lock him in, Cassandra turned the door, surprised to see that it was unlocked. Bursting into the room, Cassandra looked around confused as she saw the pair of handcuffs dangling on the railing, but no Michael.

Trent Brown: Cassandra looking to save her husband from his captivity… but where is he, Keith!?

Keith Kincaid: Best guess… probably still in the building, Trent.

The lights go down as "Knock Back" by Jaxson Gamble comes over the sound system. Tony Gold steps through the curtain, gold sparklers going off behind him. A big smile comes across Tony’s lips as he flashes his teeth, showing everyone his customized gold grill.

Keith Kincaid: How much do you think that cost him, Trent?

Trent Brown: Thinking of getting some for yourself, Keith?

Erin Wallace: The following match is scheduled for one-fall. Making his way to the ring at this time, standing at 6’3” and weighing in at 235lbs… Tony… “Perfection”… Gold!

Tony is wearing standard black tights with the name “Gold” written in gold across the front. He has black boots, black knee pads with a golden “G” across the front, golden armbands around his upper bicep, and black wristbands. He swaggers down the ramp, taunting the fans as they boo him. Tony rolls into the ring and begins pacing back and forth. “Cicatriz ESP” by The Mars Volta cuts over the speakers as the fans all rise up to their feet, cheering for their HWA representative.

Trent Brown: The HWA really needs this one, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: You better hope Grimjack is on top of his game then, Trent.

The fans wait for Grimjack to show but, after a minute of his music playing, nothing happens. Tony looks around the ring, expecting some sort of sneak attack but… still… nothing.

Keith Kincaid: Uh… someone did remind Grimjack the PPV was tonight, right?

After a few more awkward moments pass, High Society member, Brandon Kayros, emerges from behind the curtain, carrying Grimjack over his shoulder. Tony Gold laughs to himself as the fans boo once more.

Trent Brown: Oh you’ve got to be kidding me… again!?

Keith Kincaid: Looks like the HWA is about to go down 4-0 to the High Society, Trent.

Grimjack appears practically lifeless as Brandon makes his way down the ring, stopping at the apron so he can roll the HWA superstar into the ring. Grimjack remains unmoving as Wallace drops to a knee to check on him.

Trent Brown: I don’t think Grimjack is even going to be able to go here, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: Victory by forfeit is still a victory, Trent.

Tony Gold kept yelling at Wallace to simply award him the match but Cunningham gets up, shrugs his shoulders, and calls for the bell.

Keith Kincaid: Wait… what? Did Wallace just throw Grimjack to the wolves here!?

Gold stared a hole through Wallace as the referee tried to explain that he was doing as Grimjack wanted. Shaking the shock off, Tony began to make his way towards his opponent, only for Grimjack to roll out of the ring and onto the apron. Brandon stayed at ringside, laughing at this display as Gold looked around, confused.

Trent Brown: It looks like Grimjack agreed to compete.

Keith Kincaid: Not sure what his plan was here, Trent. Brandon Kayros is still on the outside, nowhere for him to run.

Grimjack remained laying face-first down on the apron as Tony merely sighed, walking over to the ropes. Reaching through, he pulled Grimjack to his feet, only for Grimjack to deliver a quick strike to Gold that stunned him. Before Tony could react, Grimjack was pulling Tony’s arm over the top rope while his legs were wrapped around Gold’s head. Leaning back, Grimjack began pulling ferociously on Tony’s arm, trying to pull the shoulder out of socket with a Hanging Armbreaker!

Trent Brown: Grimjack suckered him in, haha!

Keith Kincaid: What!? No! That’s not fair!

Tony screamed out in agony as Wallace began his five count for Grimjack to break the hold, since Gold was still tied up in the ropes. One… Two… Three… Four… Grimjack finally released the hold as Tony fell back onto the mat, grabbing at his injured shoulder. Brandon had seen enough as he pulled Grimjack from the apron, only for Grimjack to have been expecting as much as he reached up and slammed Kayros’ head off the apron with an STO.

Trent Brown: A sickening thud as Brandon’s skull met the hard surface of the ring apron and Grimjack is in total control!

Keith Kincaid: What the hell is happening!?

Grimjack rolled into the ring as Tony tried to crawl to safety in the corner. Grimjack stalked after him as he waited for Tony to turn to face him. Gold’s eyes went wide as Grimjack grabbed him, spun him away from the corner, and then dropped him face-first into the second turnbuckle with a STO Buckle Smash!

Trent Brown: Finally, a match that seems to be going in the favor of the HWA!

“Grimjack” chants start within the fan base as he knelt beside Tony. Gold writhes around the mat, clutching at his teeth. Seeing just what Tony was worried about, Grimjack decides to take advantage and apply a Mandible Claw as Tony continues to squirm around.

Keith Kincaid: What sick, sadistic side of Grimjack is this!?

Trent Brown: I don’t know Keith, but I like it!

Wallace continues to see if Gold wanted to quit but Tony refused, despite the intense pain he was in. Eventually, Grimjack broke the hold of his own accord, but only after he’d torn the golden grill from Tony’s mouth! He held the piece of dental hardware high above his head as the fans cheer and applauds Grimjack’s actions, a few “This Is Hardcore” chants starting amongst the faithful.

Keith Kincaid: Oh God, I think I’m going to be sick.

Grimjack flipped the golden grill into the crowd for a lucky fans souvenir as he continued the assault on Tony, pulling a shell-shocked Gold to his feet. Again, before Tony knew what was happening, Grimjack had a hold of his wrist, went spinning through the air, and forced Gold onto his back as Grimjack’s legs wrap around his arm once more.

Trent Brown: A Cross Armbar on Tony now and Grimjack is looking for the submission victory!

Tony screamed in pain as Grimjack continued to wrench the arm. Brandon had recovered by this point but all he could do was cheer words of encouragement to his ally. Gold clawed and scratched, pulling himself over to the bottom rope as Wallace was forced to have Grimjack break the hold.

Keith Kincaid: Thought we were going to see the first victory there by the HWA, Trent.

Trent Brown: Grimjack is a master of submission; don’t think he’s done yet, Keith.

Grimjack shook his head in frustration as he glanced over to make sure Brandon was still staying out of the ring. Seeing that he was, he pushed himself to his feet, making his way over to Tony. Grimjack began to pull Gold to his feet but Tony managed to grab a hold of Grimjack and toss him through the ropes. Grimjack managed to steady himself on the apron as Tony quickly ran towards the opposite side of the ring. Grimjack realized what was coming and tried to move but Brandon had crouched down by the apron, his hands wrapped around Grimjack’s ankle, holding his foot in place. Gold came bouncing off the ropes, launching himself through the second rope and taking both him and Grimjack down with a Suicide Spear!

Trent Brown: What a Spear by Tony Gold!

Grimjack went crashing down hard, the back of his head bouncing off the protective mats on the outside. Tony, too, seemed to pay the price, having led the Spear with his injured shoulder. As Grimjack lay dazed on the outside, Brandon went to check on his injured comrade while Wallace began the “10 count”. One… two… three…

Keith Kincaid: What happens in the case of a double count-out Trent?

Trent Brown: I have no idea, Keith… I guess it ends in a draw?

Keith Kincaid: Well that’s boring.

Four… five… Brandon begins to help up Tony Gold… six… seven… Gold rolls back into the ring as Grimjack begins to stir… eight… nine… Grimjack has the where-with-all to barely roll back into the ring, breaking the ten count, before immediately rolling back out so as to give himself a few more seconds to recover.

Trent Brown: Smart, veteran move by Grimjack there.

Tony grew frustrated at this as he turned to Wallace, criticizing him for his apparent “slow” ten count. As Cunningham had to, yet again, defend his actions, Brandon Kayros stalked after Grimjack.

Trent Brown: Oh come on, how much outside interference are we going to see in these matches tonight!?

Keith Kincaid: My guess is… a lot, Trent.

As Grimjack stumbled to his feet, he turned right into a Clothesline from Hell that nearly took his head off… courteously of Brandon Kayros.

Trent Brown: Oh dear God! Grimjack almost got decapitated!

The fans started up the “asshole” chants once more as Brandon pulled Grimjack to his feet and rolled him into the ring, dusting his hands off as he did so. At this point, Tony felt the need to no longer argue with Wallace as he quickly scampered into the cover, yelling for Cunningham to make the count.

Trent Brown: You’ve got to be kidding me; they’re going to steal another one!

One… Two… Kick-out! Grimjack, somehow, managed to find a way to stay in it as Tony slammed his hand on the mat, frustration beginning to set in. Gold shook his head as he pulled Grimjack back up to his feet, Brandon cheering his stablemate on. Tony shook the blood back into his shoulder as he set Grimjack up for a suplex-type move. Lifting Grimjack into the air, Gold spun him around violently, dropping Grimjack down onto the back of his head before slipping into the cover once more.

Keith Kincaid: A beautiful Spinning Brainbuster by Tony Gold and he’s zeroed in on the back of Grimjack’s head for sure.

One… Two… Thr-kick-out! Grimjack barely got the shoulder up, the damage afflicted before the match, in addition to the vicious shots to the head he had sustained during the fight, starting to take their toll.

Trent Brown: Grimjack has put up an impressive contest so far but I’m not sure how much more abuse he can take, Keith.

Tony grabbed a fistful of Grimjack’s dreads and pulled him to his feet, walking him over to the corner, before lifting him up onto the top turnbuckle. Swinging Grimjack’s legs off to the side, Gold ascended to the second rope and wrapped his arms around Grimjack’s waist, lifting him horizontally into the air, before dropping him violently back-first onto the top turnbuckle.

Trent Brown: A devastating Buckle Post Backbreaker by Tony Gold and he could very well have broken Grimjack’s back there!

Grimjack writhed around the ring in agony as Tony laughed to himself, saying something to the fact that “it was payback for ripping his grill out of his mouth”. Wallace went down to a knee to check on Grimjack but Gold shoved Cunningham aside, looking to continue his assault on the injured superstar. Wallace sat aghast on the mat as the fans started a “you fucked up” chant, seeing the anger starting to rise in the official’s face.

Trent Brown: Wallace has taken quite the abuse from the High Society tonight; I think he might be starting to get fed up!

Keith Kincaid: He’s a referee… what’s he going to do, Trent?

Frustrated, Wallace pushed himself up to his feet and got in Tony Gold’s face, shoving the athlete away from Grimjack. The fans cheered loudly as Tony stood there in shock, unable to comprehend that an official had just put their hands on him. Seeing this new development, Brandon Kayros leaped up onto the apron to express his displeasure with Wallace. The fans cheers only grew louder when Michael Diamond suddenly emerged from the back and ran down the ramp.

Trent Brown: It’s Michael Diamond! Michael Diamond’s coming to Grimjack’s aid!

Keith Kincaid: How did he escape Maxem’s trap!?

Diamond ran down to ringside, grabbing at Brandon’s leg. Kayros turned to see what was happening as Michael, using Brandon’s leg, swung him off the apron. Kayros fell as Diamond leapt up, catching him in his freefall with an RKO.

Trent Brown: “Diamond Cutter”! “Diamond Cutter”! Michael hits the “Diamond Cutter” on Kayros and no more back-up for Tony Gold!

Just as quick as he had hit his signature move, Diamond was back to his feet, staring a hole through Gold as chants of “Diamond” rose up amongst the sold out arena. Michael slid into the ring as Tony began to back pedal. Gold pleaded with Wallace to do something as Cunningham, begrudgingly, stepped in front of Michael, warning him the consequences if he laid a hand on Tony.

Keith Kincaid: I don’t believe it… Wallace actually did something right for once.

The fans began booing loudly as Diamond put his hands up, indicating that he wouldn’t create any issues. A smirk on his face, Tony mockingly waved “goodbye” to Diamond. Michael simply smiled back, telling Gold to “turn around”. Gold did as he was instructed, his eyes going wide as he saw Grimjack standing before him. Before Tony could react, Grimjack leapt into the air, grabbing Gold’s wrist and wrapping his legs around his shoulder. Grimjack hung upside down, locking in the Six Seconds Magic and pulling on the injured shoulder of Tony.

Trent Brown: “Grim Reaper”! “Grim Reaper”! Grimjack locks in the “Grim Reaper” and this could be it!

Gold screamed out in agony as Grimjack continued to stretch the arm, shaking his head up and down as if he could somehow will Tony to submit. As Diamond leaned against the corner turnbuckle, Wallace got down to a knee, asking if Gold was willing to tap out. Tony shouted in defiance as Grimjack continued to wrench the shoulder out of socket.

Trent Brown: Come on Grimjack, make that son-of-a-bitch tap out!

Keith Kincaid: Whoa, Trent… language. This is still a family show.

The fans all began making “tap out” motions with their hands as Wallace kept checking with Gold, seeing what he wanted to do. Tony struggled to carry the entire weight of Grimjack on his shoulder as he made a move to try and get to the ropes to break the hold. Each step was agony as he could feel the tendons and ligaments tearing with each passing second the submission hold was locked in. As Gold neared the ropes, the pain began to overwhelm him as he found himself dropping to a knee, Grimjack’s body no longer suspended in mid-air and his shoulders barely hanging off the mat.

Keith Kincaid: Grimjack’s shoulders are down, Trent! This should be a pin fall!

Wallace didn’t seem to notice this as he continued to ask if Tony wanted to give up. Gold continued to struggle, each passing second dislocating his shoulder even further. Tony made one last ditch effort to reach the ropes before he found himself falling face-first to the mat, his shoulder and arm bending in a direction it wasn’t meant to go. Almost instantly, Tony was slamming his hand onto the mat, tapping out to the “Grim Reaper”!

Trent Brown: Yes! Yes! Grimjack did it! Grimjack made Tony tap out!

Keith Kincaid: Give the assist to Michael Diamond, Trent.

Trent Brown: Oh suck it, Keith!

The fans rose to their feet, finally HWA getting on the win column as Grimjack relinquished his hold on Tony. Gold clutched at his shoulder as Kayros began to stir on the outside; the realization of what had just happened washing over him. Brandon stared angrily at Michael as he aided his friend from the ring, Tony’s shoulder hanging low as he clutched his wounded arm close to his body. Diamond watched the two walk up the ramp as Grimjack managed to pull himself to his feet, Wallace raising his hand in victory.

Trent Brown: Grimjack puts the HWA on the board and its 1-3 now, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: It’s still an uphill battle Trent, and these matches only get harder from here on out.

As the fans cheered and chanted for the submission specialist, Michael turned and looked over at the war-scarred Grimjack. Diamond, respectively, nodded to Grimjack before exiting the ring, letting him soak up the fans admirations. Wallace, too, exited the ring as Grimjack stood in the middle of the ring, looking out at the sea of fans as they gave him a standing ovation.

Trent Brown: An unbelievable showing of respect for one of the HWA’s greats here, Keith.

Grimjack fought back the tears as he held up a clenched fist in solidarity to his backstage brethren, sending a clear message to the remaining High Society members that the HWA would not go down with a fight. On this night, at HWA One Night Only: The Last Stand, Grimjack had cemented his legacy.

Syren is seen backstage, no longer in her casual attire and donning her full wrestling gear. She is decked out in black holographic tights and a matching crop top. Completing the ensemble are a pair of black, lime & purple boots, as well as a pair of black, lime, and purple wrist gauntlets that go halfway up her forearm. The fans cheer at the sight of the woman who had been the only female wrestler to hold the HWA World Heavyweight Championship. Syren seems oblivious to the cheers and cat-calls directed her way as she appears lost in thought, listlessly stretching as she prepares for her impromptu ladder match. A pair of black boots step into frame as Syren’s eyes shift upward, her body rising to meet the intruder as Cassandra Starr-Diamond stood before her. Cassandra, too, was no longer in her casual attire, having now changed into her standard wrestling attire as well. Starr-Damond now sported a pair of purple sequin bikini bottoms and a black leather tank top. Accompanying this attire was a pair of black elbow pads and knee pads, each of them bearing her initials (CSD) in gold velvet. For a moment, the two just stood in silence, both women eyeing the other one up.

Trent Brown: Two of the most dominant women the HWA has ever seen, what a moment!

Keith Kincaid: You can feel the tension, Trent… the sexual tension.

The fans seemed torn on who to cheer for as chants of “Syren” mingled with chants for “Starr”, before being blended together in a truly historic moment.

Syren: Something I can help you with, darling?

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: So a ladder match… huh?

Syren: Yeah, what of it?

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: I know a thing or two about ladder matches; could give you some pointers…

Syren: Thanks, but I’m good…

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: Not that good…

Syren: Excuse me!?

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: I’ve done my research on you Syren; the so-called best female wrestler the HWA has ever seen; the only woman to ever win the HWA World Championship; the woman who single-handedly revolutionized the wrestling business for all the little girls that followed in her footsteps… the list goes on and on.

Syren: I earned every one of those accolades…

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: (laughing) Right… “earned”… tell me, how did you earn your first HWA World Championship again? Oh yeah, I remember… your boyfriend gifted you his title opportunity. And I’m sure being besties with my brother didn’t have anything to do with the fact that you were so quickly elevated to your second HWA World Championship…

Syren: You best get to the point Cassandra, before I give you a little taste of what I have in store for Scarlett Rayne-Sengir tonight.

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: My point, Syren, is that you were no different than me. All these things they were saying about you, they said about me first. Had I stayed in the HWA, I would’ve been considered the most dominant woman in its history…

Syren: Is that what this is all about… who the better woman is!? And here I thought what you said to Sawyer earlier about “ensuring the HWA legacy lives on” was what you actually cared about.

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: HWA’s survival takes precedence, of course. After that, we all have our own personal legacies to uphold.

Syren: Tell ya what Cassandra, I’m going to go out there, compete in this ladder match, win back the deed to my ranch, and then if you want to try your luck… well, you know where to find me.

Syren brushed past Cassandra as a smirk came across her face. As Starr-Diamond continued down the hall, she unintentionally came across a secret meeting between Syren’s opponent for the night, Scarlett Rayne Sengir, and Abrianna. Cassandra watched the two women whispering in hushed tones for a moment, before shrugging her shoulders and continuing on down the hall.

Trent Brown: I don’t think I ever thought I’d see Cassandra and Syren interacting like that, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: Sounds like we might actually get an improvised match between the two of them, too!

Trent Brown: What a treat that would be for the fans!

Keith Kincaid: I hope it’s a bra and panties match…

The scene cuts to backstage once more, as we are now in a darkly lit room. The camera pans around until it finally falls on Dan Sawyer, his back to the camera. He appears to be working vigorously on something as a small laugh escapes his lips. Turning around, Dan looks into the camera, an intense look in his eyes.

Dan Sawyer: Up until now… we’ve been playing by the High Society’s rules. I think it’s time we flip the script and do things the “HWA” way.

Sawyer smirks as he brings a barbed-wire baseball bat into view, his eyes looking over his prize with almost a lustful twinkle in his eye.

Dan Sawyer: I think it’s time… we get Hardcore!

The scene fades out as a “Let’s Get Hardcore” chant starts up again amongst the audience.

Keith Kincaid: The lunatic has a barbed-wire baseball bat now!?

Trent Brown: I guess Sawyer is done messing around, Keith.

“The Terrible Lie” by Nine Inch Nails plays and the lights in the arena turn purple as they focus on the arena entranceway. Scarlett Rayne Sengir walks out in a skintight dark red leather cat suit with black knee-high leather boots. Scarlett holds her arms out and twirls around; soaking in the majority of boos from the crowd, a few cheers and hollers from the male attendance sneaking through. After a quick survey of the fans, she rushes down the ramp, grabbing one of the ladders that had been set up at ringside and sliding it into the ring.

Keith Kincaid: I’m very worried about this match, Trent… I hope they don’t hurt their beautiful faces.

Trent Brown: Ladder matches have a history of being a very brutal and violent affair, Keith.

Scarlett appears to be wasting no time at all as she begins to set the ladder up in the middle of the ring. Wallace goes to question what she is doing but she simply kicks him below the belt, doubling the official over. Placing her hand on his face, she pushes him to the mat, rolling her eyes.

Keith Kincaid: Wallace is sure taking a beating tonight, Trent… I love it!

Trent Brown: Scarlett is looking to win this match before it’s even started!

Rayne-Sengir began to climb up the ladder when a loud siren began echoing throughout the arena. Scarlett paused, believing that maybe some natural disaster had suddenly struck the stadium as the stadium lights dim and lime green and teal lights flash amongst the crowd. Suddenly, purple pyros explode on the stage as “Bulletproof” by Diamante begins playing over the loud speakers. Syren emerges from the haze to a thunderous ovation as she sprints down the ramp. She quickly leaps up onto the apron and flips over the top rope in one beautiful fluid motion. Scarlett shakes off the shock as she begins her ascension once again but Syren is too quick, climbing the ladder with such speed that she is able to cut Rayne-Sengir off at the top. Before anyone could react, Syren was flipping over the ladder, grabbing Scarlett and pulling her crashing down to the mat below. Almost in slow motion, the two women fell twenty feet to the canvas below, Syren landing on her back while Scarlett appeared to land directly on to the top of her head.

Trent Brown: My God! A “Front Flip DDT” by Syren off the ladder and Scarlett may be dead!

Keith Kincaid: I knew it! These two women are going to kill themselves! I should probably go check on them, right?

A wave of shock rushed over the crowd before chants of “Holy Shit” started up from the crowd. Scarlett lay unmoving on the mat as Syren’s gaze cut through the bright lights, focusing on the briefcase that held the deed to her ranch. Seeing the prize dangling off the hook just inspired Syren to turn onto her stomach. Seeing that Rayne-Sengir had yet to move, Syren began to crawl her way over to the ladder.

Trent Brown: Syren trying to force herself up that ladder.

She slowly began to ascend up the ladder before she felt a grip around her ankle. Looking back, Scarlett was desperately trying to keep Syren from climbing up.

Keith Kincaid: How is Scarlett even moving right now, Trent!?

Syren seems annoyed at this interruption as she drops down to the mat, grabbing a fistful of Scarlett’s hair and beginning to pull her up to her feet. However, Rayne-Sengir was playing possum as she rolled Syren up almost in a pinning predicament. Syren rolled through however, but right into a stiff kick right to the side of her face as both women found themselves lying on the mat once more.

Trent Brown: A “Schoolboy/Enziguri” combo by Scarlett and both women are down!

Keith Kincaid: Both women fighting like the loser has to spend a night with Fat Larry White!

Scarlett is the first to stagger to her feet as she leans against the ropes, still trying to shake off the effects of that DDT off the top of the ladder. Syren begins to stir as Rayne-Sengir turns her attention back to her opponent. Bouncing off the ropes, Scarlett leaps into the air, slamming her knees into Syren’s face and driving her down to the mat.

Trent Brown: A “Running Meteora” now from Scarlett and, just like that, Rayne-Sengir is in control!

Keith Kincaid: Don’t worry Trent, when Syren ends up homeless I’ll have a special place for her to stay.

Scarlett instinctively goes for the cover on Syren, momentarily forgetting that the match was a ladder match. Realizing her mistake seems to enrage Rayne-Sengir as the fans laugh and mock her, starting a “You Fucked Up” chant. Grabbing Syren’s hair, she begins viciously slamming her head repeatedly into the mat as the teasing turned to boos, the fans chants now turning to “You’re A Bitch”. Scarlett eventually relinquished her hold on Syren, brushing aside her hair and attempting to regain her composure as her sour disposition was, now, clearly showing.

Trent Brown: We’re starting to see that mean streak from Scarlett here now, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: I wouldn’t want to get on her bad side, Trent.

Scarlett gets to her feet, glancing above her at the briefcase which held the deed to Syren’s ranch. Looking back down, she could see her victim staring back at her, fear in her opponents eyes. Rayne-Sengir laughed to herself as she pulled Syren to her feet, not quite done inflicting more damage. She spun her around and leaped up onto her shoulders, locking her legs around Syren’s neck and throat. Scarlett started to fall backwards, looking to take Syren down with an “Inverted Frankensteiner” but Syren managed to reach out and grab ahold of the ropes, stopping her own momentum from flipping backwards. Because of this, Rayne-Sengir slipped off of Syren and landed on her knees, her attack having been interrupted by Syren. Furious, Scarlett leapt into the air just as Syren turned around, catching a “Front Dropkick” to her face!

Trent Brown: Syren managed to counter Scarlett, if only for a moment.

Keith Kincaid: We’ve never seen the likes of Scarlett Rayne-Sengir in the HWA before, what a treat for our audience, Trent! You think I can get her autograph after this is over?

Syren staggered backwards into the ropes, nearly falling out to the apron. Instead, she took a page out of Tristan’s playbook, grabbing ahold of the top rope and launching herself back into the ring. Rayne-Sengir looked to show off her impressive athleticism, kipping back up to her feet only to run into a devastating Clothesline from Syren!

Trent Brown: A “Rebound Lariat” by Syren and Scarlett doesn’t know what hit her!

The fans began chanting for Syren as she pushed herself up to her feet. Remembering what was at stake, Syren quickly climbed up the ladder, coming within inches of the briefcase. Casting a glance downwards to make sure Scarlett wouldn’t be an issue, she watched as Rayne-Sengir slowly began to get up to her feet.

Trent Brown: Syren within inches of reclaiming the deed to her home and giving the HWA its second win of the night!

Syren hesitated, looking from briefcase to opponent. Deciding against ending this match here and now, Syren positioned herself on the ladder so that she was now facing out towards Scarlett. She took a moment to look out amongst the sea of fans, watching as they all began to rise up to their feet in anticipation of what they were about to see.

Keith Kincaid: What is she thinking, Trent!? Just reach up and grab the briefcase!

Trent Brown: Guess Syren isn’t done with Scarlett yet, Keith.

Stumbling to her feet, Scarlett looked up just in time to see Syren flip off the ladder! Syren landed on Rayne-Sengir’s shoulders, attempting to hit a “Dragonrana” from off the ladder. Scarlett managed to catch Syren however, just as she was throwing her body back in an attempt to flip her down to the mat. With Syren’s legs still entangled around Scarlett’s neck, Rayne-Sengir stepped through, trapping Syren’s arms and setting her up for a “Styles Clash”!

Trent Brown: Syren went for the “Siren Song” but Scarlett managed to counter into the Last Lie!

Keith Kincaid: We saw this move earlier tonight Trent, Syren in all sorts of trouble!

Realizing this very fact, Syren began trying to escape the hold as she managed to free her arms from Scarlett’s legs. Using her impressive core-strength, Syren quickly pulled herself up and over Rayne-Sengir, flipping to the mat and bringing Scarlett crashing down hard, the back of her head and neck hitting off the bottom rope.

Trent Brown: Oh my God! Syren countered the” Last Lie” into a “Sunset Flip Powerbomb”! What a move, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: I can honestly say I’ve never seen anything like that, Trent! I think Scarlett might be hurt here!

The whiplash from hitting the bottom rope was enough to send Scarlett rolling around the ring in agony as Syren lay on her back, exhausted. The fans were all standing, cheering, clapping, chants of “Holy Shit” and “Syren” blending together. Syren forced herself to roll onto her belly, her vision going from her opponent writhing around to the amazing sight before her very eyes. She had to practically fight back the tears as the fans seemed to give new life into her body, her muscles reacting in kind as she pushed herself to her feet. The cheers and chants only got louder as Syren took in this historic reaction, her gaze scanning the arena.

Trent Brown: I’ve never seen anything like this Keith, what an amazing ovation for Syren!

Syren’s eyes finally drifted upward, to the briefcase. This was her moment, her chance to end the match and reclaim her home. But too late did she realize that she had wasted too much time as the fans admirations suddenly turned to disdain. Turning, Syren was met by a stiff kick to the gut, courteous of Abrianna. She then followed this up by lifting Syren into the air, cradling her against her body, and then dropping her face-first to the mat with a “Ram-Paige DDT”!

Trent Brown:” Final Shot”! “Final Shot”! Abrianna hits the “Final Shot” on Syren! Damn it, where the hell did she come from!?

Keith Kincaid: No disqualification in Ladder matches Trent; the High Society does it again… outsmarting the HWA at every turn.

Syren crumpled to the ground as Abrianna stood over her fallen foe, a smile on her face. Looking to her side, she saw the pain that Scarlett was in. Rushing to aid her new ally, Abrianna began helping Rayne-Sengir to her feet.

Trent Brown: Damn it, not like this! You can’t tell me that Syren is going to lose her home like this!

The fans jeers turned to cheers when Cassandra Starr-Diamond emerged from the back, running down the ramp way!

Trent Brown: It’s Cassandra Starr-Diamond! Cassandra Starr-Diamond is here!

Keith Kincaid: Oh no Trent, looks like Cassandra is going to take advantage of that “no disqualification” thing too and finish what she and Syren started backstage!

Starr-Diamond leapt up onto the apron as Abrianna turned to see the new threat. Before she could react, Cassandra launched herself through the second rope, rolling to her feet as she quickly leapt into the air, grabbing ahold of Abrianna and slamming her face-first into the mat!

Trent Brown: Think again, Keith! Cassandra is here for the HWA! A “Slingshot X-Factor” onto that traitor and the roof just exploded off the Staples Center!

Indeed, the fans were all still standing and cheering as Cassandra quickly pushed herself to her feet, ducking just as Scarlett came rushing in, looking for a Clothesline. Realizing she had missed her mark, Rayne-Sengir spun around only for the flat of Starr’s boot to violently connect with her jaw!

Trent Brown: “Superkick” by Cassandra and both Abrianna and Scarlett need to regroup here!

The two High Society members roll out of the ring as Cassandra took the moment to go over to Syren. Starr-Diamond stood over her for a moment as Syren looked back up at her, unsure of what to think of this interference. After a brief moment, Cassandra simply offered her hand to Syren. Tentatively, Syren took her hand within hers as Starr-Diamond helped her to her feet, the two coming face-to-face. As the two women stare each other down, the fans seem divided as chants of “Syren” intermingle with “Starr” once more.

Trent Brown: Never, in all my years, would I have thought I’d be witnessing this very moment, Keith.

The two fierce competitors slowly took their eyes off each other as they look to the outside of the ring, where Abrianna and Scarlett were trying to recover. Without exchanging a word, both Syren and Cassandra run off the opposite ropes, bouncing off them and charging forward. In synchronization, the two women dive through the second rope, Syren launching herself face-first while Cassandra goes feet-first. Syren managed to catch a hold of Scarlett, spinning around and violently planting her onto the top of her head with another devastating DDT! Cassandra, on the other hand, locked her legs around Abrianna’s neck and spun around, flipping Abrianna down onto the outside with a Hurricanrana!

Trent Brown: A “Suicide Tornado DDT” by Syren and a “Wrecking Ball Hurricanrana” from Cassandra and these two women are a force to be reckoned with!

A “This Is Awseome” chant starts up as a result of the dare-devilish type moves by Cassandra and Syren, the two women bouncing up to their feet, both HWA competitors locking eyes once again. For a moment, it seems like the two are arguing about which high flying move was more impressive before Starr-Diamond reminds Syren of what’s at stake. Nodding her head, Syren goes under the ring, pulling forth a 25-foot ladder. The fans begin cheering as Syren slid the ladder into the ring, Cassandra mentioning something to her along the lines of “showing off”. Syren turned to retort, only to see Starr-Diamond ambushed from behind by Mary Jane Fury, who spun Cassandra around and savagely dropped her face-first into her knees with a “Codebreaker”!

Trent Brown: “Manslaughter”! “Manslaughter”! Mary Jane hits the “Manslaughter” on Cassandra and she very well may’ve broken her nose there!

Keith Kincaid: That’ll teach Cassandra for getting involved, Trent!

Trent Brown: She was only down here because Abrianna got involved first, Keith!

Syren went to confront Mary Jane as Fury quickly scampered away, running around the ring. Syren continued to give chase as the two women ran a lap around the ring before she ran into a violent “Chick Kick” from Abrianna!

Keith Kincaid: “Widowmaker” from Abrianna and it appears Syren bit off more than she could chew here!

Trent Brown: It’s 3-on-2 Keith, in what was supposed to be a 1-on-1 match!

Mary Jane laughed at Syren as Abrianna moved to assist Scarlett, pulling her up and rolling her into the ring. Abrianna shouted for Rayne-Sengir to ascend up the ladder as Scarlett continued to try and shake off the effects of the whiplash she had suffered earlier. Pushing herself up, she grabbed the ladder that Syren slid in and begins setting it up, before realizing that it was taller then it needed to be. Scarlett looked to her teammates in confusion as to why she would need a 25-foot ladder for a briefcase that was only 20-feet off the mat.

Trent Brown: Scarlett seems to be in a bit of a daze here, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: Can you blame her!? She’s taking a beating at the hands of Syren and Cassandra in this one, Trent. She’ll probably need a nice massage when this one is all over with.

Abrianna seemed to be perplexed at Scarlett’s actions, yelling at her again to forget the tall ladder and to climb up the one that is underneath the briefcase. Rayne-Sengir continues to shake the cobwebs off as she nodded in her head in understanding and abandoned the tall ladder, moving back to the one she had previously set up when the match first started. Slowly she began to rise towards the briefcase as a shill scream suddenly stopped her from climbing. Looking to the outside, Scarlett watched as Cassandra, now recovered, had a hold of Abrianna. Locking eyes with Rayne-Sengir, Starr-Diamond smirks as she spun Abrianna around and dropped her face-first onto her shoulder with a “Sit-Out Twist of Fate”!

Trent Brown: Cassandra with a modified version of her husband’s “Diamond Cutter” and this one isn’t over yet folks!

Keith Kincaid: How violent is this match going to be, Trent!? Did you see how Abrianna’s neck snapped back there!?

Cassandra was quickly to her feet, her eyes locking with Scarlett once more. However, she sensed danger behind her and turned suddenly as she saw Mary Jane rushing in for another blindside attack. Fury quickly slammed on the brake, falling backwards, pleading with Cassandra to show mercy. Starr-Diamond had enough of Mary Jane as she stalked after her, Fury quickly scurrying back up the ramp. As Cassandra grew in closer to her prey, she suddenly stopped as she saw Jared Sengir emerge from behind the curtain.

Trent Brown: Oh you’ve got to be kidding me, now there’s a fourth member of the High Society here!?

Keith Kincaid: I’m sure Jared is just out here to support his wife, Trent.

Jared began pressing forward towards Cassandra as Starr-Diamond hesitantly backed up, realizing the numbers were heavily against them once more. Mary Jane began laughing hysterically once more, mocking Cassandra. The laughs died very suddenly, however, as a familiar lumberjack emerged from the crowd, hopped over the barricade, and stood beside Cassandra, a barbed-wire baseball bat in his hands.

Trent Brown: It’s Dan Sawyer! Saywer’s here and he’s brought his equalizer!

Keith Kincaid: How does this guy keep getting in here!?

Chants of “This Is Hardcore” rose up from the HWA faithful as Sawyer pressed the bat into his exposed palm, ignoring the pain from the wire ripping flesh as he looked down at Cassandra, a smirk on his face. Starr-Diamond simply made a gesture that they were “all his” as Dan nodded his head, proceeding towards Jared and Mary Jane. Sengir turned and pulled Fury to her feet as the two quickly made their escape while Sawyer stalked after them.

Trent Brown: Sawyer evens the odds at 2-to-2 and now Syren is perched on top of that 25 foot ladder!

While all this had been transpiring outside, Scarlett had allowed herself to be distracted. Too late did she realize that her opponent, Syren, was now perched above her, ready to strike. Syren flipped off the ladder, landing atop Rayne-Sengir’s shoulders, and flipping her off the ladder with a death defying “Dragonrana”!

Trent Brown: “Siren Song”! “Siren Song”! Syren just leapt off that 25 foot ladder and sent Scarlett all the way to hell!

For the third time in this match, the “Holy Shit” chant was as predominant as it had ever been as Syren rolled around the mat, clutching at her right knee, the impact of the landing apparently doing some damage to herself in the process. Scarlett, on the other hand, lay unmoving, her eyes blinking up at the bright lights above. Cassandra, herself, couldn’t believe what she had witnessed as she moved to the apron, slapping on the side to try and will Syren to finish this match once and for all.

Trent Brown: I don’t know how much more damage these two women can take, Keith!

Syren tries to fight through the pain, pulling herself onto the ladder underneath the briefcase. Slowly, she begins to climb up it, favoring her right leg.

Trent Brown: Syren is going up here! Can she do it!?

As she gets about halfway up, Abrianna slides into the ring and charges the ladder. She pushes all her weight into it but Syren manages to save herself from a nasty fall, dropping safely down to the mat. This seems to only annoy Abrianna as she rushes in again, only for Syren to catch her, flip her around, and drop her back-first onto her own injured knee with a “Tilt-A-Whirl Backbreaker”!

Trent Brown: “Spur of the Moment”! Syren catches Abrianna with the “Spur of the Moment “here but she may’ve hurt herself in the process!

Abrianna grabs at her injured spine as Syren clutches her wounded knee. Cassandra continues to cheer on her HWA ally as Syren struggled to get back up. Scarlett managed to take advantage of the situation as she lunged forward, catching Syren as she was getting up with a “Sliding Flatliner”! This appeared to take all the energy out of Rayne-Sengir as she laid next to Syren, staring back up at the lights once more!

Trent Brown: Abrianna is down; Syren is down; Scarlett is down…

Keith Kincaid: And Cassandra is up!

Sure enough, Cassandra had taken this opportunity to climb up the 25-foot tall ladder. Perching herself on top, she looked down at the three women, and then out to the crowd, who had been remained standing for the majority of this match.

Keith Kincaid: What on earth is she thinking, Trent!? She can’t win this match for Syren!

Trent Brown: I don’t think she has any intent on grabbing that briefcase, Keith!

Starr-Diamond watched as, almost in unison, the three women began to stir. Abrianna and Scarlett believed they had the advantage as they each grabbed a hold of Syren, pulling their victim to her feet. As their eyes drifted upwards however, they realized just what they had “walked into”. Cassandra leapt off the ladder, doing an invert-type flip and crashing into all three competitors, all of them crashing down to the mat in a giant heap!

Trent Brown: Oh my God! A “Shooting Star Press” off the top of the ladder and Cassandra just took everyone out!

Keith Kincaid: Talk about “friendly fire” Trent; it’s one thing to take out the High Society members, but your own ally!? Cassandra may’ve very well just cost Syren the match here!

As the four women lay strewn across the ring, resembling some sort of violent car wreck, the fourth “Holy Shit” chant reverberated through the arena once more, the noise near deafening. Minutes seem to pass before any of them even began to stir, all of them moving gingerly; assessing the damage done. The four women find themselves all standing at the same time, the High Society members on one side of the ring with the HWA members on the other. Cassandra and Syren exchange a glance with each other as Syren flexes her right knee and leg, making sure it was still in working order. Abrianna seemed to be second-guessing her decision to defect as she began to back away before Scarlett grabbed her around the wrist.

Trent Brown: Looks like dissension amongst the ranks, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: I never liked Abrianna that much anyway.

Scarlett began berating Abrianna for her cowardice when Abrianna suddenly threw Rayne-Sengir to the ground. She did this, however, to protect her, as Syren rushed in, looking to strike. Abrianna managed to catch Syren and send her high up into the air but this worked to Syren’s advantage as she used the momentum to flip into the air, land on Abrianna’s shoulders, and instantly flip her down to the mat!

Trent Brown: A “Pop-Up Hurricanrana” by Syren and she is putting on a clinic here!

As Syren got to her feet, she was met with a vicious slap to her face from Scarlett! The sound of palm meeting cheek echoed through the arena, drawing “oohs” and “aahs” from the crowd. Syren grabbed at her jaw as she lifted her head, looking Rayne-Sengir dead in the eyes. Scarlett nervously looked around, realizing the mistake she had made. With her hands up, she began to back away from Syren. Unfortunately for her, she backed into Cassandra. Rayne-Sengir cursed her bad luck as Starr-Diamond spun her around and met her with a stiff kick to the gut, doubling Scarlett over. Locking Rayne-Sengir’s arms behind her back, Cassandra winked at Syren before dropping Scarlett face-first to the mat with a “Pedigree”!

Trent Brown: “Starr Drop”! “Starr Drop”! Cassandra hits the “Starr Drop” on Scarlett and the HWA is standing tall!

Keith Kincaid: Might as well be a handicap match, Trent.

With both High Society competitors down, Cassandra motioned for Syren to go for the prize. Syren didn’t need to think twice about it, climbing up the ladder as fast as her injured leg would allow her. Getting close to the top, Syren paused once more, looking out at the fans once more as if this would be the last time she would see something like this. She took in the sights, her eyes scanning across the sold-out arena, the fans having been standing and cheering her on since early on in the match. Syren looked down at Cassandra as Starr-Diamond looked back up at her, confused. Syren pointed to Abrianna and Scarlett, indicating that she wasn’t done yet.

Keith Kincaid: Hasn’t Syren done enough damage, already?

Trent Brown: These two women tormented Syren long before this event started, Keith; clearly a lot of bad blood here.

Cassandra shrugged her shoulders and did as she was instructed; rolling Abrianna over so she now lay directly next to Scarlett. Syren smiled as she pulled herself to the very top of the ladder, balancing on the precipice as she stared down at the two women.

Trent Brown: Syren perched at the top of the ladder! Just grab the briefcase Syren, end this match here and now! Don’t do this!

Keith Kincaid: She’s insane, Trent!

Not giving it a second thought, Syren launched herself off the ladder, flipping through the air multiple times before landing a top both Abrianna and Scarlett with a devastating “630 Senton”!

Trent Brown: Oh my God! “Breakdown”! “Breakdown”! Syren hits the “Breakdown” from off the top of the ladder and she may’ve just broke Abrianna and Scarlett in half!

Keith Kincaid: Did you see that impact, Trent!? I think she broke the ring!

The force of Syren crashing into the two women from off the 20-foot ladder had been enough to crack the boards underneath the ring, creating a now visible divot in the canvas. Syren rolled off the two women as Cassandra looked down at the carnage, both Abrianna and Scarlett seemingly unconscious and laying prone in the indention of the mat. A fifth “Holy Shit” chant started up before being replaced with the HWA signature “This is Hardcore” chant. Cassandra knelt down and assisted Syren to her feet, helping her over to the ring ropes.

Trent Brown: I’ve never seen anything like what we just witnessed! Syren laying it all on the line tonight!

Keith Kincaid: Enough about Syren, we need medical attention out here for Abrianna and Scarlett!

Syren assured Starr-Diamond she was okay as she hobbled back over to the ladder. Taking one last look behind her at the two women still unmoving in the crater, she began to pull herself back up again. Cassandra stood nearby, watching Syren ascend to the top, each step of the ladder appearing to be agony on her leg and knee. Syren’s eyes remained focused on the briefcase, knowing very well what the contents inside it meant to her and her family. The fans loudly chanted her name, believing that their voice was enough to motivate her to keep climbing; to not give up.

Trent Brown: Syren is so close; can she make it the final few steps?

Syren felt the ladder begin to shake underneath her weight, the impact of her high flying move having left the ring uneven. Looking down, she saw Cassandra grab a hold of the ladder, steadying it for her. Starr-Diamond glanced back up at Syren, a smirk on her face.

Keith Kincaid: I knew it! I knew it! Cassandra is going to show her true colors here!

For a moment, Syren began to question their uneasy truce, until Cassandra simply laughed to herself and told Syren to “grab the briefcase already”. Syren nodded her head and pulled herself up the next step, reaching her fingers out. The briefcase swayed back and forth, just out of reach. Flexing her right knee one last time, she climbed the final step and lunged for the briefcase. Grabbing a hold of it, she pulled with all of her might as she fell to the mat below, the briefcase securely within her arms!

Trent Brown: Yes! Yes! Syren’s done it! Syren’s won!

The bell rang, signaling the end of the match as the fans cheered and applauded. Cassandra went over to congratulate Syren as Syren fought back the tears, clutching the briefcase closely to her body. Medical personal made their way down to the ring to check on Scarlett and Abrianna, both of whom had barely moved since suffering that brutal “Breakdown” from off the top of the ladder. Other stagehands made their way down as well, realizing that they’d have to fix the boards underneath the mat before the next match. Starr-Diamond extended her hand to Syren once more, Syren now taking it without hesitation. Cassandra and Syren embraced in a somewhat awkward hug, before Starr-Diamond raised Syren’s hand high in the air, the fans showering her with “You Deserve It” chants.

Trent Brown: An amazing match Keith and HWA is one victory away from tying things up with the High Society!

Keith Kincaid: Yes, well we’re only halfway there Trent, still a lot of matches left!

Trent Brown: Very true my friend, but an amazing performance from Syren tonight, one of the HWA’s best for sure!

Keith Kincaid: Give the assist to Cassandra Starr-Diamond, Trent.

Cassandra tapped the briefcase in Syren’s possession, congratulating her on her victory before rolling out of the ring, giving Syren her chance to bask in her victory. Syren lifted the briefcase high above her head, the tears streaming down her cheeks, her smile as radiant as ever. With her victory, she had saved her families’ home as well as keep hope alive for the HWA, the score now HWA: 2 to High Society: 3.

Ryan Maxem walked the backstage hallways, dressed in his usual wrestling attire as his match with Tommy Romeo was up next. He was currently wearing a pair of black tights with green-and-gold barbed wire entangled on the sides. In addition to this, he was wearing black knee pads, black boots, black wrist bands, and a newly acquired High Society shirt, proudly displaying the golden shield that represents their logo. At first sight of him, the fans in attendance began booing the turncoat but Maxem was all smiles as he walked down the hallway, carrying a gift basket filled with assorted alcohol, chocolates, and other various goodies. Finding his desired location, Ryan knocked a few times on the door before entering, not even waiting for so much as a “come in” from the person within. The camera followed Maxem as he walked in to find the destroyed locker room of Ron Royalty, the man himself sitting in a couch with his head in his hands. Ryan whistles at the destruction, before walking over and placing the gift basket down on a nearby table. Ron glanced up at the intruder, unsure of what Maxem was doing here but – also – making no move to forcefully remove him from the room.

Ryan Maxem: Looks like a tornado went through here Ron, this whole thing must really have you spiraling… huh?

Maxem laughed to himself as he helped himself to the basket meant for the former HWA present, tearing open the plastic wrap and pulling free a bottle of whiskey. Ryan turned to Ron, offering him the bottle but, still, Royalty remained a statue. Maxem sighed, placing the bottle of alcohol down and perusing the rest of the items within the basket.

Ryan Maxem: Some pretty nice things in here Ron, the High Society sure spares no expense.

Ryan stood up-right, looking back over at Ron, barely recognizing the man who had brought the HWA to such heights back in its “glory days”.

Ryan Maxem: Look… I really hope there are no hard feelings Ron. I’ll always be grateful to you and the HWA for giving me my first big break. Truth is, I have to do what’s best for me now… and we all know that the HWA is a sinking ship. You and I both know that it’s just a matter of time…

Royalty seemed to have heard enough as he finally sat up from the couch. Maxem simply held up his hands, indicating that he didn’t want any trouble.

Ryan Maxem: Okay, okay… just wanted to hand deliver Eric Rayne’s gift to you in person, figured I owed you that much at least.

Ryan turned and walked to the door, looking back at Ron one last time.

Ryan Maxem: Whatever your reasons for doing this Ron, I sure hope that it’s worth it.

Maxem closed the door behind him, leaving Ron Royalty alone with his thoughts and his gift basket.

Trent Brown: What the hell was that all about, Keith?

Keith Kincaid: I think Maxem was trying to talk some sense into Royalty, Trent.

The scene changed to outside the Staples Center as the fans cheer at the sight of Michael Diamond wandering around, looking for someone or something. Diamond goes from one car to the next, his eyes searching this way and that. Finally, his eyes light up as he spots a long black stretch limo sitting idle in a dark corner of the parking lot. Michael cautiously approaches, as if expecting another ambush.

Keith Kincaid: What’s Diamond up to?

Trent Brown: I think he’s still trying to track down Eric Rayne, Keith.

Diamond makes his way to the back of the limo, his hand going to the handle of the door. He pulls aggressively on it, but the door doesn’t budge. Michael continues trying as the driver’s side window slides down, the chauffeur sticking his head out to see what the commotion was.

Michael Diamond: Come on Eric, I know you’re in there! Come out and face me!

The driver quickly clicks the button that brings his window back up as Michael, frustrated, slams his fist into the window. The blackened window cracks and splinters from the impact, but doesn’t break. Before Diamond is able to hit it again, the car’s engine revs to life and speeds away, leaving “Your Hero” in the dust.

Trent Brown: Diamond is a man possessed, trying to get his hands on Eric Rayne!

Keith Kincaid: He must really want to join the High Society, Trent.

Tristan Wolfe walked the backstage hallway, his hand holding an icepack to his neck as he tried to stretch out the injured muscles. He moves with a purpose as he finds the door he was looking for, opening it and popping his head in.

Tristan Wolfe: How ya doing there, love?

Tristan walks into the locker room as Syren sits on the bench, flexing her right leg and knee. She gingerly runs her hands up and down her injured limb, looking up at Tristan as he enters the locker room. Syren makes a sour face as she stretches her leg one more time and stands up to greet her husband. She tests out to see if her leg would support her, and proving steady she hobbles over, offering Tristan a rueful smile.

Syren: I've been better, but considering everything it could be worse.

Tristan Wolfe: Aye, that it could’ve been lass. They kicked me out of the infirmary to make room for the likes of Abrianna and Scarlett, guess you left quite the “impression” on them.

Wolfe laughed to himself as he took the ice pack from his neck and offered it to her, in case she needed it for her wounded knee. Syren took the ice pack and placed her foot on the bench, graciously laying the pack across her damaged knee. She smirked at him, chuckling a little bit at the thought of what she and Cassandra Starr-Diamond had just done to the two High Society bitches. They had deserved it, especially after everything that they had put her through within the last few weeks.

Syren: Too bad it wasn’t anything worse.

She looked in Tristan’s eyes in concern, placing the ice pack down on the bench and moving to massage his neck and shoulders.

Syren: And how are you feeling? Still numb?

Tristan squeezed his hands into fists as he tried to work the sensation back into his fingers.

Tristan Wolfe: I came to check on ye and – instead – here ye are, fussing over me.

Tristan laughed as he turned to face his wife.

Tristan Wolfe: Ye put on a helluva match, Sy… I’m proud of ye.

Syren shifted her weight, wincing as she put a little too much on her right leg. The match had taken a lot more out of her than she cared to admit. She was battered, bruised, and aching all over after that intense ladder match. Her damn knee being the worst of the lot... and though she had loved every second of it, she also knew that she’d be feeling the hell she just went through in the coming weeks. She grinned at Tristan, the exhilaration of being in the ring washing over her again, regardless of the circumstances.

Syren: I didn’t realize just how badly I’d missed it all Tris.

Tristan raised his hand to Syren’s cheek, brushing her damp hair from her face.

Tristan Wolfe: And I didn’t realize how much I missed watching you out there…

Wolfe glanced around the room, as if to make sure that they were alone… ignoring the camera man of course. Confirming that they were, Tristan smiled as he placed his hands around Syren and pulled her close to him, lifting her up in the process so that her legs wrapped around. A trail of fire seemed to run down his spine in response to this aggressive action, but he paid it no mind.

Tristan Wolfe: Speaking of which… I seem to recall a certain “after match” ritual the two of us used to partake in…

She bit her lip as she lets out a tiny yelp while being pulled off her feet. Her knee howled its objections to being treated such, sending waves of pain screaming up her thigh and down her calf. She twines her arms around his neck, determined to ignore the throbbing in her limb. Syren leaned in and took Tristan’s mouth in a searing kiss, breaking it off with a bite to his bottom lip. She slid her fingers through his hair, rearing her head back to give him a saucy wink.

Syren: Are you sure you’re up for it Mr. Wolfe?

Tristan cleared his throat as he motioned down with his eyes at the package awaiting Syren between his thighs.

Tristan Wolfe: With ye lass, I’m always up for it.

He laughed to himself as he returned her kiss, tearing away his lips from her mouth so he could bite his way down her neck. Tristan continued to clench and unclench his hands around Syren’s ass, ensuring that he still had feeling in his fingers while, also, acting as an excuse to grope her derriere. Syren’s eyes travel the length of his body, following his gaze. She can’t suppress a pleased snicker that slips out.

Syren: So I see….

Her head falls backwards, reveling in the feel of the bites across her throat. With a purr she slides down, wincing a little as her body weight jars her knee. She runs her tongue over her teeth as she trails her hands down Tristan’s chest, ending with her fingers toying at the waistband of his tights. She tosses her hair over her shoulder as she presses against Tristan, his body shifting to present his back to the camera, and sinks to her knees.

Trent Brown: Whoa, uh… I feel like maybe we shouldn’t be…

Keith Kincaid: Don’t you cut away for one second! Please, for the love of all that is holy…

A small gasp escapes from Wolfe’s lips as his hands find their way to Syren’s hair, gripping it tightly as she moves her head back and forth. Tristan temporarily forgets about the aching in his neck as he tilts his head back, the pleasure he receives from Syren mixing with the pain from his injuries sustained earlier in the evening. Grimacing, Tristan squeezes his hand, grabbing a fistful of Syren’s hair and jerking her up to her feet once more. Lost in his lust, Wolfe ignores Syren’s visible discomfort of putting sudden weight on her injured knee as he pulls her crop top off her, his hands finding their way to her breasts as he kisses down her chest.

Keith Kincaid: Oh my God, oh my God, oh my God…

Trent Brown: I’m not sure our younger viewers should be watching this, maybe we should cut to…

Keith Kincaid: Shhhhh Trent, not now. Someone tell the camera man to move a few inches to the right!

Tristan's bare back obscures most of Syren's “goods” from view, much to the dismay of Keith Kincaid. With a little moan of satisfaction, she grips his shoulders as she abandons herself to the pure pleasure of Tristan's mouth scorching over her skin. Syren sways slightly, a soft expletive emerging at both what her husband is doing, and her banged up knee complaining. She shifts her weight to lean more on her left, as she reaches up to tangle her hands in his hair, hauling his face to hers. Her teeth latch onto his lower lip, tugging at it with a soft growl. She trails her nails down his neck, across his chest to scrape lightly across his nipples. Her fingers move once more to play around his waistband, giving a demanding little tug.

Keith Kincaid: Oh screw this, I’m going back there.

Trent Brown: Whoa, Keith… what? You can’t…

Trent does his best to restrain Keith as the audience is “hooting” and “hollering” at this recent turn of events. Under normal circumstances, Tristan’s desire burned as bright as an open flame for Syren… but after watching her in her natural element again, Wolfe’s senses were completely void of all rational thinking. He pressed her back up against the wall, his hands pulling down her holographic tights in one motion. Securing his hands on her hips, Syren wrapped her legs around his waist while he slowly eased into her, his lips finding hers once more.

Keith Kincaid: Was that her pants!? Did her pants just come off!? Oh come on man, get a better angle!

Syren’s breath catches as she bumps back against the wall, feeling her tights swept off. Her giggle is cut short into a gasp as Tristan slides home. She twines her arms around his neck, ignoring the protests of her knee as she squeezes his hips with her thighs. She blazes a trail of kisses and bites down the side of his neck, reaching his shoulder when her gaze shifts up to meet the shocked gaze of the cameraman. She stops, tilting her head to the side with a chuckle, and a saucy little smile.

Syren: Don’t you think it’s time you run along and give us some privacy?

Trent Brown: Uh oh… busted.

Keith Kincaid: Oh shit, uh… just stay completely still, they can’t see you if you don’t move…

Trent Brown: I don’t think that’s accurate, Keith.

Tristan stops for a moment, following his wife’s gaze to the voyeur in the corner. He growls a bit at the inconvenience, instinctively trying to cover up Syren’s exposed body with his own. His demeanor relaxes a bit as he feels Syren’s soft lips on his cheek again. Turning back to his wife, a smile creeps across Tristan’s lips.

Tristan Wolfe: Ye know Sy, I feel like I could go for a shower. Care to join me?

Keith Kincaid: Oh please say “yes”… please say “yes”!

Keith tries to start up the infamous “Yes” chant as Syren giggles, enjoying the discomfited look of panic on the camera man’s face. The Wolfe duo had a tendency to do that to people. She turns her smoldering gaze back to lock with Tristan’s, her brow quirking upwards at his suggestion.

Syren: I am feeling rather dirty...

Keith begins breathing into a bag as Trent pats his broadcast partner on the back. Tristan lets out a throaty and carnal groan, squeezing his arms around Syren and kissing her once more. As he begins to make his way towards the showers, his pants slip from his waist and down to his ankles. For a moment, Wolfe stands in the buff as he looks down at his clothes, then back at the camera.

Keith Kincaid: Oh what the… I don’t want to see Tristan’s bare ass!? Who is this guy!? Did he even go to film school!?

Tristan shrugged his shoulders and gave the camera a little wink before continuing onward and out of sight as the sound of running water can be heard moments later.

Keith Kincaid: Follow them… what is he doing!?

Trent Brown: I think they want their privacy…

Keith Kincaid: I’m going to go make sure that Syren has a towel…

Trent Brown: Sit back down Keith!

"Hail to the King" by Avenged Sevenfold blasts on the speakers and the arena suddenly goes black. Smoke fills the entrance way as Ryan Maxem emerges, his arms crossed and a grin on his face.

Erin Wallace: Standing at 6’7” and weighing in at 283lbs… Ryan… Maxem!!!

The crowd gives him a mixed reaction; the majority booing the traitor while a few cheer him out of respect for what he has accomplished inside the HWA ring. Maxem walked to the ring, grinning all the way, as if he knows something the rest of us don’t. He slides in and stands on one turnbuckle with his arms raised getting more of a reaction from the crowd.

Trent Brown: One of the most decorated athletes in HWA’s history, Keith… only tonight he’s wearing the High Society colors.

Keith Kincaid: You know who isn’t wearing any colors or clothes right now, Trent…

Trent Brown: Just give it a rest Keith; we’ve got a match to call.

Keith Kincaid: You’re lucky I’m a professional and care about my job performance.

Trent Brown: (sarcastic) Yes… very lucky…

Keith Kincaid: Anyway, yes… Maxem is one of the best the HWA has ever seen, Trent. He has won every championship there was to win in the HWA… including the World Championship on three occasions!

Dropping down from the turnbuckle, he walks to the side of the ring, requesting the microphone from Erin. Wallace does as she is instructed as Maxem’s music cuts off.

Ryan Maxem: I know a lot of you paid a lot of money to see me wrestling tonight, but I’m afraid I got some bad news for you. You see, earlier tonight… my opponent, Tommy “The Chosen One” Romeo, was involved in a little bit of an accident.

Maxem directed the fans to the big screen as a video feed from earlier in the night shows the parking lot outside the Staples center. As fans watch, Romeo, Grimjack, and Evan Blane are proceeding into the arena when they are suddenly blind-sided by Maxem’s SUV. After a moment, Blane and Grimjack are able to get out of their destroyed truck and proceed off screen as Maxem takes his time getting out of his vehicle, surveying the damage. The video feed cuts off as Ryan is seen laughing hysterically in the ring.

Trent Brown: This is just sick, Keith! How can Maxem think something like that is funny!?

Keith Kincaid: I’m just glad Ryan is okay, those blind-side collisions can do a lot of harm…

Trent Brown: He’s the one that caused the blind-side collision!

The fans continued booing, even starting up an “Asshole” chant as Maxem tried to calm them down.

Ryan Maxem: Don’t worry, Romeo will be fine… at least, I think he will. I don’t know, last I heard he was rushed to the nearest hospital. But that brings us back to the “right here, right now” conundrum. See, if I’m here… and my opponent isn’t… well, then I guess it’s a forfeit.

Maxem laughed again as he threw the mic to the side. Wallace Cunningham looked around, unsure of what to do next. Ryan ordered him to start the match and proceed like they would with any other situation. Cunningham, reluctantly, did as he was told. The bell rang and Wallace began the count out as Maxem paced around the ring, soaking in the heat from the sold out arena. One… Two…

Trent Brown: I can’t believe this is happening!

Keith Kincaid: Maxem’s right though, Trent… he needs an opponent to wrestle.

Three… Four… Maxem looked at his wrist like there was a watch on it, as if this was taking up too much of his precious time… Five… Six…

Trent Brown: Of all the ways to lose to that son-of-a-bitch.

Keith Kincaid: Whoa, Trent… language.

Seven… Eight… Maxem raised his hand up in victory when, suddenly, the lights in the arena went completely black.

Trent Brown: Wait a minute… what’s going on here!?

Keith Kincaid: Did we forget to pay the electric bill again!? We seem to make that mistake a lot…

The arena remained shrouded in darkness as fans looked around, unsure of what was happening. Maxem can be clearly heard asking “what is going on” as he paces around the ring in confusion. After what seems like an eternity, the lights return back to normal and everything is as it was before. Ryan looked around, cautiously, unsure of what to make of it.

Trent Brown: Well, a bit of wishful thinking there Keith, I thought something…

Ryan Maxem: And there you have it! Tommy Romeo... heh, the H.W.A's Chosen On-

Just then, “Take A Look Around” by Limp Bizkit began playing over the loud speakers as search lights began to fill up the arena. The fans all leap to their feet as Maxem is frozen in shock.

Keith Kincaid: No way…!

Trent Brown: It can’t be…!

Smoke slowly began to billow upon the stage as the sold-out arena was on their feet, cheering and screaming in disbelief. As the chorus of the song kicks in, Damien “TCO” Michaels suddenly appears amidst the haze, his eyes locked on the ring and the opponent standing before him.

Trent Brown: I don’t believe it! He’s here! “TCO” is here!

Keith Kincaid: That’s not the right “TCO”! It’s supposed to be Tommy Romeo!

“TCO” is decked out in his classic all-black attire; black trench coat, black jeans, black boots. The fans have already started up a “T…C…O…” chant as Damien stares a hole through Maxem, who is absolutely livid in the ring, pacing around like a trapped animal. “TCO” walked slowly down the ramp as Ryan seems to be pondering his options. Michaels walked up the ring steps, his eyes never once leaving his target. He mouths "Traitor" and points at Maxem with a disapproving headshake.

Trent Brown: What an amazing surprise, Keith! “TCO” is here! The real “TCO”!

Keith Kincaid: This is totally unfair; Maxem prepared for Tommy Romeo… not Damien Michaels!

“TCO” stepped through the ropes as Maxem rushed in, cutting Michaels off and slamming him into the corner. Ryan began ferociously pounding away as Wallace quickly signaled for the bell, the match officially underway. Michaels covered up as best as he could as Maxem rained down barrage after barrage of fists. Eventually, Cunningham was able to get Ryan off of Damien as Michaels remained crouched in the corner, his head down.

Keith Kincaid: Maxem trying to end this one early, Trent! Smart strategy!

Ryan had a few choice words for the referee before beginning to move in again until “TCO”, using the nearby ropes, pulled himself up to his feet. Maxem froze as Damien remained staring at him, a little bit of blood now rolling down from a cut on his lip.

Trent Brown: Look at the intensity in the eyes of Michaels!

Ryan looked anxiously around the ring as “TCO” wiped the blood from his chin, saying something to the effect that “he was going to pay for that”. This was enough to force Maxem into action, charging Damien. Michaels caught him however, lifting him up onto his shoulders. Before Ryan knew what was happening, “TCO” was lifting him off and planting Maxem throat-first onto the nearby ropes!

Trent Brown: A “Fireman’s Carry Flapjack” by TCO and Maxem is down!

Ryan rolled around the ring, struggling to breathe as Damien pushed himself to his feet, removing his trench coat and tossing it to the side. The “T…C…O…” chants had not ceased once and they continued to get louder and louder as he stalked after his prey. Maxem staggered to his feet as Damien met him with a stiff kick to the gut, doubling him over. Michaels grabbed Ryan and lifted him up, dropping him hard face-first onto the canvas with an “Impaler DDT”!

Trent Brown: TCO hits the “Aftermath” on Maxem and you want to talk about trying to end the match early, Michaels looking to end it right now!

Damien rolled Maxem onto his back and goes for the cover. One… Two… Thr-kick-out! The fans let out a gasp as Michaels, too, appeared shocked that Ryan had just kicked out of his finisher.

Keith Kincaid: I knew it! Maxem wasn’t going to go down without a fight!

“TCO” shook his head in frustration as Corwin Havens and Johnathon Keeper emerge from the back, running down the ramp to a chorus of boos. Keeper seems to still be suffering from having wooden splinters in his eyes as he appears to be cautiously running down the ramp while Corwin is in full sprint, jumping up onto the apron.

Trent Brown: Can we not have one match where the High Society doesn’t interfere!?

Keith Kincaid: “TCO” started it first, taking Tommy’s place in the match, Trent!

Wallace had seen this game before and immediately got into Corwin’s face, instructing him off the apron. “TCO” gently shoved Wallace to the side and grabbed ahold of Havens however, lifting him up and beginning to pull him into the ring. Damien stopped pulling him all the way in though as Corwin’s feet still lay draped across the top rope. Before Haven’s could get out of his precarious situation, Michaels spun around and dropped Corwin on the back of his head with a “Whiplash Neckbreaker”!

Trent Brown: “TCO” is kicking High Society ass!

Corwin rolled around the ring as Johnathon slid in next, looking to ambush “TCO” from behind. Damien was ready however, as he turned around and caught Keeper, using his own momentum against him as he spun him around before dropping him on the back of his head with a “Deep Six”!

Keith Kincaid: Who is this guy!?

Trent Brown: Say it with me, Keith… “T… C… O…!”

The chants were near deafening as Damien stared looking down at the three High Society members he had laid out in a matter of seconds. Focusing his attention back onto Maxem, Damien began to pull him back to his feet when Ryan lashed out in desperation, poking “TCO” in the eye. The move was enough to stagger Michaels as Maxem grabbed a hold of him and irish-whipped Damien into the ropes. Bouncing off, Ryan caught “TCO” on the way back, lifting him into the air before violently slamming him down to the mat with a “Pop-Up Powerbomb”!

Keith Kincaid: Did you see the height that Maxem got on that one!?

Maxem slid into the cover. One… kick-out!

Trent Brown: Not even a two count, going to have to try harder than that Ryan!

Ryan began to grow frustrated as he yelled for his two cohorts to assist him. Corwin and Johnathon were slowly getting back to their feet as Wallace did his best to restore order, telling the two men to leave the ring. Maxem had heard enough of Cunningham’s orders as he blindsided the referee from behind with a stiff shot to the back of the head. Wallace crumped to the ground as the two High Society members looked at him in shock. Ryan ignored their stares as he knelt down, pulling the striped-shirt from off of Cunningham’s prone body and tossing it over to Johnathon. Keeper went to grab it but his vision was a bit fuzzy still as the shirt fell out of his grip and to the mat. Scrambling, Johnathon quickly snatched the referee shirt from off the canvas and began to put it on, albeit it backwards.

Trent Brown: Oh you’ve got to be kidding me, how is this fair!?

Keith Kincaid: Hey… let’s give Johnathon a chance, Trent. Everyone has to start their career as an official somewhere.

Maxem and Corwin lay the boots into “TCO” while they waited for Johnathon to get situated. Once he was good, the two men pulled a defenseless Damien to his feet. Ryan and Havens held onto Damien as Johnathon moved in from behind, leaping into the air and pulling Michael’s down back-first onto his knees with a “Backstabber”!

Trent Brown: Keeper with the “Whiplash” here and how is this impartial, Keith!?

Maxem got into the cover as Johnathon did a fast count. One… Two… Kick-out! Ryan looked in shock as Keeper held up two fingers. Maxem screamed something about Johnathon being “blind”, to which Keeper took offense to, having nearly been blinded earlier when Dan Sawyer had smashed a baseball bat over his head. Johnathon and Ryan began screaming at each other as Corwin simply sat back, laughing at this exchange.

Keith Kincaid: I’d be upset if I was Maxem too, that should’ve been a three count.

“TCO” used this distraction to his advantage as he, somehow, managed to get back to his feet and shove Ryan into the new official. Johnathon fell to the mat from the collision as Maxem staggered back into Damien, who was ready for him. Locking Ryan’s arms over his head, Michaels lifted him up into the air and then quickly spun him around so Maxem landed face and chest-first to the canvas with a “Full Nelson Reverse STO”!

Trent Brown: What a move by “TCO”! There’s no quit in him!

Corwin rushed in to help but Damien was ready, side stepping and using Haven’s own momentum against him to toss him over the top rope and to the outside. Turning, “TCO” locked eyes with the unlikely official as Johnathon looked warily around the ring. Michaels dropped to his knees as he hooked the leg and made the cover, his gaze never breaking from Keeper. Almost as if Damien had some power over him, Johnathon slowly began to lower himself to the mat, preparing to make the count.

Keith Kincaid: What on earth is Johnathon doing!?

Trent Brown: I wouldn’t want to piss off TCO… would you?

Hesitantly and slowly, Johnathon began to make the pinfall count. One… Two… Kick-out!

Trent Brown: Damn it, if the referee had been any faster than this one would’ve been over!

Keith Kincaid: I can’t believe Johnathon almost counted out his own teammate!

Damien rose to his feet, his focus on the “guest referee” as Keeper remained on his knees, indicating he didn’t want any trouble. Before Michaels could do anything, a sickening “bang” shot out through the arena as Corwin nearly bent a steel chair off the spine of “TCO”. Damien fell to his knees as Havens swung the chair once more, this time cracking it off the back of Michaels’ skull!

Trent Brown: Vicious chair shots from Havens and it appears the numbers game has finally caught up with “TCO”!

Michaels lay face down on the mat, blood pooling from a severe gash on the back of his head as Corwin tossed aside the broken chair. Havens instructed Keeper to count the pinfall as he went over to Maxem and began to pull him over to the motionless “TCO”.

Trent Brown: I can’t believe that after all this; the High Society is going to steal another one!

Ryan rolled Damien onto his back and draped an arm over his body as Johnathon got down to make the count. One… Two… abruptly, the lights in the arena went black once again.

Keith Kincaid: Again with the lights!? I swear… if HWA wasn’t going out of business tonight, someone would be getting fired for these technical difficulties!

Visible confusion can be seen as the silhouettes of the two High Society members scramble around the ring, trying to figure out what was happening. At that moment, “Young Grow Old” by Creed plays over the loudspeakers as the lights return to normal, “Awesome D” Anderson emerging from behind the curtain.

Trent Brown: Oh my God, it’s “Awesome D” Anderson!

Keith Kincaid: What the hell is he doing here!?

The fans in attendance went crazy at the sight of the HWA Hall of Famer as chants of “This is Awesome” began to rise up from the sold-out arena. Corwin and Johnathon exchanged looks of confusion as Anderson began to make his way down the ramp. Havens ordered for Keeper to start the pin fall count again as he slid out of the ring, looking to cut “Awesome D” off at the pass.

Keith Kincaid: Looks like this is one of those “too little, too late” instances, Trent.

One… Two… Kick-out!

Trent Brown: Think again, Keith… “TCO” just kicked out!

Keeper looked on in shock, before his eyes drifted up the ramp to see Havens get his head damn-near kicked off its shoulders with a brutal “Brogue Kick”!

Trent Brown: Anderson with the “Bro-Kick” to Corwin and he’s making his way to the ring!

Johnathon nervously paced around the ring as Anderson made his way to the apron, pulling himself up onto it. Stepping over the top rope, “Awesome D” stared down the High Society member as Keeper, foolishly, rushed forward. Anderson caught him around the throat, walking him around the ring for a few paces, before lifting him up and slamming him down hard with a “Chokeslam”!

Trent Brown: “Chokeslam” by Anderson and “Awesome D” is cleaning house!

The sacrifice of Havens and Keeper seemed to buy Maxem enough time to crawl over to the twisted steel chair. Gripping it tightly, Ryan forced himself up to his feet, preparing to attack Anderson from behind. At that moment, a fan in the front row unexpectedly slipped over the barricade and decided to intervene, sliding into the ring and stalking behind Maxem.

Keith Kincaid: Hey! Get that guy out of there! Where is security!?

Trent Brown: Wait a minute… isn’t that…!?

The fan – decked out in a dark blue New York baseball cap, loose fitting black shirt, and dark blue shorts – anxiously ran in place, the stomping of his feet on the canvas enough to force Ryan to turn around. Maxem’s eyes opened wide as Brooklyn rushed forward, leaped into the air, and kicked the steel chair right into the skull of Ryan with a “Claymore” kick!

Trent Brown: It’s Brooklyn! Brooklyn is here, too! And he just laid out Maxem with the “Dreamscape”!

Brooklyn kipped back up to his feet as he began pumping up the crowd before he turned, nearly walking right into “Awesome D” Anderson. Brooklyn glanced up at the giant, a smile on his face. Anderson opened his arms as Brooklyn embraced him in a brotherly hug.

Trent Brown: “Awesome D” Anderson and Brooklyn have come to the aid of “TCO”… this may be our Final Stand, but we damn sure aren’t going out without a fight!

Keith Kincaid: I’m getting really sick of all the interference in these matches tonight, does the HWA have no shame!?

Damien pushed himself up to his feet, his hand rubbing the back of his bloodied head. He paused at the sight of the former HWA superstars, looking first to “Awesome D” Anderson and then to Brooklyn, a smirk creeping across his lips.

Keith Kincaid: This was a damn set-up from the beginning, Trent!

Michaels goes over to Maxem, kicking the chair aside and pulling him to his feet. Pointing to “Awesome D”, Anderson nods his head in approval, very much wanting a piece of the traitor. Damien pushes Ryan forward as “Awesome D” grabs a hold of Maxem and shoves his head between his legs. Anderson wraps his arms around Ryan’s waist, looking out at the crowd as if to savor this moment. “Awesome D” lifts Maxem up before sitting down, violently throwing Ryan down hard onto his back with a “Batista Bomb”!

Trent Brown: “Awesome Bomb”! “Awesome Bomb”! Anderson putting the exclamation point on this match, sending Maxem crashing down to hell with the “Awesome Bomb”!

Brooklyn stomps and kicks the guest referee, Keeper, out of the ring as the shirtless Cunningham finally begins to stir. The unlikely trio regroups in the center of the ring as Wallace looks from one member to the other.

Keith Kincaid: Finally, Wallace will restore order to this match and disqualify “TCO” and his thuggish friends!

Cunningham seems to contemplate his options, before his eyes go to the prone Maxem. Wallace simply motions to “TCO” to “finish it” as Damien smiles back in response.

Trent Brown: Looks like Wallace didn’t forget who blind-sided him early in this match!

Keith Kincaid: What…!? Wait… okay… yeah… Maxem might’ve had this coming. But the High Society didn’t do anything…

Trent Brown: Aside from the consistent interferences…?

Keith Kincaid: Well… yeah… aside from that.

Brooklyn and Anderson pulled the defenseless Maxem back to his feet as “TCO” stood in waiting. Damien smacked Ryan in the face, declaring that what he did next was for “the HWA”. Michaels kicked Ryan in the gut, locked his head in, and lifted Maxem up, planting him face-first once more with the “Impaler DDT”!

Trent Brown: And another “Aftermath” from TCO and this one has to be it!

Keith Kincaid: Maxem just consecutively took Brooklyn, Anderson, and now “TCO’s” finisher… I doubt he’s even conscious at this point, let alone be able to kick out!

Damien made the cover as Brooklyn and Anderson stood guard. Wallace happily got down and made the count as the fans chanted along with each slap of his hand hitting the mat. One… Two… Three!

Trent Brown: Yes! Yes! “TCO” has done it! And now the HWA is all tied up at 3-3 with the High Society!

Havens retrieved Keeper from the ringside area as the two High Society members retreated back up the ramp way, leaving Maxem alone in the ring. “TCO” stood tall in the ring with Anderson and Brooklyn, the three soaking in the moment of their surprise re-emergence and celebrating with the HWA crowd.

Trent Brown: What an amazing scene we just witnessed, Keith… the return of HWA legends “TCO” Damien Michaels and “Awesome D” Anderson!

Keith Kincaid: Don’t forget that New York punk, Brooklyn.

Trent Brown: Three surprises I’m sure the High Society wasn’t expecting tonight, I know I wasn’t!

Keith Kincaid: I’ll admit it; I didn’t see this coming Trent. However, I still think Maxem should’ve been granted the victory by forfeit since Romeo didn’t show up…

Trent Brown: Maxem tried to kill Tommy with his SUV!

Keith Kincaid: Oh yeah, I forgot about that… hey; you think Syren is still in the shower? Any chance we could get a camera back there again? That’d probably cheer me up…

The camera lights up as we get a backstage scene of Jared Sengir running down the hallway, frantically knocking on doors and trying to open them. Jared continues to look behind him, as the camera pans over to see Dan Sawyer stalking after him, that barbed-wire baseball bat still in hand. Sengir curses to himself and continues running as Sawyer enjoys the thrill of hunting down this particular High Society member. However, something catches the eye of Sawyer as he pauses in his pursuit, glancing over to see a “Stormcorp” van parked near the loading dock area.

Dan Sawyer: Stormcorp…!? What the hell are they doing here?

Curious, Dan begins to move in to investigate when movement around the van forces Sawyer into hiding. Peering around the corner, Dan notices a group of armed mercenary soldiers talking strategy.

Dan Sawyer: I better go warn the others…

Sawyer slips away before the soldiers have a chance to notice.

Trent Brown: What’s Stormcorp?

Keith Kincaid: Must be the High Society security detail…?

The scene shifts to another area backstage as the members of the High Society are currently gathered. The group looked as if they’ve been through an absolute car wreck; Corwin Havens grimaced as he held his bruised jaw – a result of “Awesome D” Anderson’s “Bro-Kick”, Tony Gold’s arm hung loosely in a sling – Grimjack having dislocated his shoulder earlier in the evening, Johnathon Keeper continued to constantly blink – his eyesight still not completely recovered from when Sawyer’s bat splintered off his face, Abrianna and Scarlett Rayne Sengir sat to the side with their ribs heavily taped – each breath they took an excruciating reminder of the “Breakdown” they had endured off the top of the ladder from Syren. Brandon Kayros was noticeably absent – the big man having been tasked with bringing Ryan Maxem to the infirmary after his beat down at the hands of Tha Aftermath. Steven Fury stood beside his wife, Mary-Jane Fury, looking from person to person.

Steven Fury: This was supposed to be a simple and complete annihilation of the HWA and now here we are, tied at 3 point a-piece!?

Each member seemed to have their own excuse as to why things had gone awry but Steven had heard all he could stand, grabbing a nearby table and throwing it against the wall, the wood splintering and cracking upon impact.

Steven Fury: Enough! I will show you all how it’s done when I go out there and finish what I started in the GWA; tonight, I end the career of “Your Hero” Michael Diamond once and for all… whether he likes it or not!

Steven held his hand out to his wife as a vile sneer crept across her lips, reveling in how her husband berated the others for their failures. Accepting his hand within hers, the two began to walk off, heading towards the ring.

Steven Fury: Oh, one last thing…

The couple paused as Steven kept his back to his High Society teammates.

Steven Fury: … I don’t want to see a single one of you out there. I have never needed any of you… ever… and that’s not going to start tonight! So if you value your lives and your status in the High Society, you’ll stay as far away from that ring as possible, is that understood!?

At that moment, Jared Sengir ran up to the group, out of breath and nervously glancing over his shoulder. Confident he hadn’t been followed by that baseball-bat-wielding-maniac, Jared looked from each of his teammates faces until his eyes finally locked onto Steven Fury.

Jared Sengir: Sorry I’m late… what’d I miss?

Steven scoffed at Jared as he and Mary-Jane Fury walked off screen, leaving the High Society members licking their wounds. Sengir stood in confusion as Scarlett approached him, filling him in on the situation.

Trent Brown: Maybe some cracks in the High Society armor starting to form, Keith?

Keith Kincaid: I think it was more of a “pep-talk” than anything else, Trent. Steven Fury is one of the most decorated athletes of his generation; he just exudes greatness and expects nothing less in return.

The camera changed scenes as we, once again, saw Ron Royalty sitting alone in his locker room, the opened bottle of whisky in his hand. His eyes stared downwards at one of the newspaper scrapings before him, the headline and picture bringing him back to one of the darkest moments in his life. Royalty’s hand seemed to twitch as he slowly began to bring the bottle to his lips.

Trent Brown: This is not the Ron Royalty I remember, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: Agreed Trent, I hardly recognize the man anymore.

As he pressed the bottle to his mouth, Ron seemed to be contemplating his decision. It would be so easy to embrace the drink, to numb the pain away. Despite the insurmountable odds, the HWA had not given up… and neither would he. Pulling the bottle from his mouth, he threw the alcohol against the wall, the glass shattering and its contents staining the wall and carpet below. Sensing the camera on him, Royalty looked straight into it, sending a message to Eric Rayne himself.

Ron Royalty: Ryan Maxem asked me earlier tonight what my reasons are for doing this… for being here… competing after almost 15 years. It’s simple; the HWA is my home… the HWA is my family. This is the empire that I created, but it would mean nothing if not for the hard working men and women that put their bodies on the line night-in and night-out… it would mean nothing if not for the fans that embraced our culture and made us such a phenomenon. Tonight may be our Final Stand, but it will not be the end of our legacy. For every single one of you here tonight…

Ron paused, looking back down at the picture of Samantha Morgan.

Ron Royalty: … and for those who are here in spirit, I promise you this… I will fight until my very last breath. The HWA will live on…

As Ron said those final words, he started directly into the camera as the scene fades to black, fans were empowered by his words of encouragement as chants of “H…W…A…” rose up throughout the arena, until it was near deafening.

Trent Brown: A very powerful statement from the former HWA President!

Keith Kincaid: It almost reminded me of the Royalty of “old”, Trent… but like the old saying goes, action speaks louder than words.

The lights dim, quieting the crowd. "Hair of the Dog" by Nazareth comes over the loud speakers as Steven Fury and Mary-Jane Fury emerge from behind the curtain. Steven is decked out in black leather pants with silver claw marks on each pant leg. In addition to his customized attire, he has normal black wrestling boots, black elbow pads, and an expensive black blazer with “Fury” embroidered on the back in silver. Mary-Jane has attire that is similar to her husband as she is wearing a black crop top with red claw marks across the chest. She also wears a low red/black/silver plaid skirt, with knee high black boots with silver laces.

Erin Wallace: The following is a mixed tag match, making their way down to the ring at this time… standing at 7’0” and weighing in at 325lbs… Steven… Fury!

Steven raises his arms into the air as silver and red pyros explode behind him. Mary-Jane clung to her husband’s side, looking wickedly out of at the crowd.

Erin Wallace: And his partner… standing at 5’5” and weighing in at 112lbs… Mary… Jane… Fury!

The pair taunts the crowd as they make their way down the ramp; Mary-Jane looking on in disdain at the fans in attendance.

Trent Brown: Mary-Jane was primarily known as a manager to Steven during their tenue, do you think that factors into this match at all, Keith?

Keith Kincaid: I doubt we’ll see much of Mary-Jane at all, Trent… Steven is an absolute beast in the ring, Diamond would be better served to just simply lie down and let Fury have this victory.

Steven easily steps up onto the ring apron as he offers his hand down to his wife. She graciously accepts as he pulls her up onto the apron and holds the middle rope open for her. Mary-Jane makes a comment about what a “gentleman” he is as she slips through the ropes and into the ring. Steven steps over the top rope as the two meet in the middle of the ring, discussing tactics for their upcoming match. “Kings and Queens” by Ava Max hits the loud speakers as the fans jump to their feet. Cassandra Starr-Diamond emerges from behind the curtain to a thunderous ovation as she walks to one edge of the stage, looking out at the sold-out crowd in attendance.

Erin Wallace: Their opponent, standing at 5’11 and weighing in at 142lbs… Cassandra… Starr… Diamond!

Cassandra was wearing a pair of purple sequin bikini bottoms and a black leather tank top. Accompanying this attire was a pair of black elbow pads and knee pads, each of them bearing her initials (CSD) in gold velvet.

Trent Brown: A standing ovation for the woman who was the pinnacle of the women’s wrestling scene for so long in the HWA!

Keith Kincaid: I agree… I definitely liked her better when she didn’t have that “Diamond” attached to her name, Trent.

Starr-Diamond smiled at the fans as she made her way to the other edge of the stage, giving that side of the arena their due as well. Cassandra was taken aback by this overwhelmingly positive reaction from the fan base, for many years having been the villain in other wrestler’s stories. At the thought of the word “villain”, Starr-Diamond’s eyes went to the ring, finding her very own villain in Mary-Jane Fury. Cassandra made her way back to the center of the stage as she started to strut down the ramp way. Steven Fury removed his blazer and placed it neatly in their corner as Mary-Jane mockingly waved at Starr-Diamond, as if inviting Cassandra into the ring. Starr-Diamond knew better than that as she waited just outside the ring.

Trent Brown: Cassandra not taking the bait there, Keith… this isn’t her first rodeo.

Keith Kincaid: Damn it Trent, you said “rodeo”… now I’m thinking of Syren again!

“Pts.of.Athrty" by Linkin Park hits over the loud speakers as the fans all stand up in anticipation. The lights dim as a blue florescent glow showers over the audience. Michael Diamond emerges from behind the curtain, his hair, face, and upper body glistening with water and sweat.

Erin Wallace: And her partner, standing at 6’1” and weighing in at 225lbs… “Your Hero”… Michael… Diamond!

Diamond wears a pair of steel blue tights, loose and flexible enough to allow him to perform his highflying maneuvers without any hassle. On the outside of each pant leg is an image of a crystal diamond, shimmering and glistening with a silver glow. His accessories include just a simple pair of black boots, black elbow pads, and black wristbands. “Your Hero” is met with a thundering ovation as he swaggers down the ramp, his signature million-dollar smile on his face.

Trent Brown: One of the most popular superstars ever to grace an HWA ring!

Keith Kincaid: You’d think we’re at a Backstreet Boys concert right now, Trent… the way these girls are all drooling over this guy.

Trent Brown: Been to a lot of Backstreet Boys concerts, Keith?

Halfway down the ramp, Michael drops down into a crouch and flexes his muscles as a series of silver and gold fireworks and pyros erupt from behind him. Continuing on with his entrance, Michael slaps hands with a few of the fans at ringside before coming to stand beside Cassandra. Starr-Diamond seems to tease her husband, asking if the “fanfare was over yet”. Michael simply shrugs his shoulders in response, rolling into the ring. Cassandra is close behind as Diamond pushes his way up to his feet and begins to go over to a nearby turnbuckle. Steven, however, has seen enough as he steps in front of Michael, blocking his path.

Trent Brown: Looks like Fury doesn’t want to wait any longer to get this one started.

Diamond looks back at Cassandra, as if silently asking her “who does this guy think he is?”. Michael tries to walk past Steven again, determined to give the fans their photo op, but Fury steps in front of Diamond once more.

Keith Kincaid: Diamond better get his head in the game, this isn’t about showing off to the fans!

Michael seemed to nod his head in understanding as he began to turn back towards Cassandra. Suddenly, Diamond leapt up into the air, arching his back and bringing his right foot up to the face of Steven Fury with a “Pele Kick”!

Trent Brown: “Overshadow”! “Overshadow”! Diamond just hit the “Overshadow” and Fury is reeling!

Steven dropped to a knee as Diamond kipped back up to his feet. Mary-Jane looked on in horror as Michael quickly ran against the ropes, rebounding towards Fury. Steven began to rise up to his feet as Diamond leapt up in to the air, grabbed a hold of Fury’s head, spun around, and dropped him to the mat with a “Tilt-a-Whirl DDT”!

Keith Kincaid: What is happening?

Trent Brown: Diamond is taking Fury out, that’s what is happening!

Diamond began to go for the cover but Mary-Jane was quickly there to break it up. It wouldn’t have mattered either which way, as Wallace had never ordered for the match to officially start, due to the fast pace in which everything had just happened. Cunningham began to explain to Michael what the situation was when Cassandra grabbed Mary-Jane in a side headlock, flipped into the air, and drove the back of her head into the mat with a “Somersault Reverse DDT”!

Keith Kincaid: What… is… happening!?

Trent Brown: Looks like the Fury’s picked the wrong power couple to mess with!

Starr-Diamond stood over the fallen female Fury as Steven rolled over to check on his wife. Michael embraced Cassandra in a hug as they were sent to their corner by Cunningham. Diamond indicated he was willing to start the match first as his wife moved out to the apron. Michael looked back at Steven as Fury glared a hole through the two HWA members.

Keith Kincaid: I think they just made him angry, Trent. Something tells me… they won’t like him when he’s angry!

Steven helped his wife onto the apron as Mary-Jane grabbed at the back of her head. Fury made sure that she was okay before confirming with Wallace that he was “good to go”. Wallace finally rang the bell, indicating the match was underway. Fury wasted no time as he charged forward, diving at Michael with a “Spear”. Diamond was ready, however, and managed to flip over the attack, leaving Fury to fall to his knees. Steven turned around to see Michael rebound off the ropes, bouncing back towards him. Fury tried to use Diamond’s momentum against him in, popping him up into the air but Michael managed to use this extra assistance from Steven so that he could land a top his shoulders.

Trent Brown: What amazing agility here by Diamond, he hasn’t lost a step!

Keith Kincaid: He’s nothing more than a glorified showboat, Trent!

Fury looked up at Diamond in confusion as Michael simply winked at Steven before flipping off his shoulders, twisting through the air, and landing behind Fury. As Diamond descended, he managed to get his arm around Steven’s head, dragging him down with him with a “Falling Reverse DDT”!

Trent Brown: Patented DDT by Diamond there and this match has been all HWA so far, Keith! Maybe Steven shouldn’t have banned his High Society teammates from ringside!

Michael quickly bounded to his feet, the big man on his back once more. Diamond ran to the nearby ropes, leaping up onto the second rope and flipping back onto Steven with a picture-perfect “Lionsault”!

Trent Brown: “Lionsault” by Diamond and he’s looking to end this one quickly!

Wallace got down and made the count. One… Kick-out! Fury easily tossed Diamond off of him as Michael landed hard on the mat beside the big man. Diamond rolled to his feet as Steven made his way over to his corner, contemplating tagging out. Remembering just who his partner was, however, made Fury second guess the decision as he turned to face Michael once more. Diamond simply smirked as he, instead, held out his hand as Cassandra leaned over the ropes and tagged herself in.

Trent Brown: And the mind games continue as Diamond just willingly tags himself out!

Keith Kincaid: This is an unfair advantage for them; they know Mary-Jane isn’t an actual wrestler!

Wallace informed Steven he had to leave and that Mary-Jane had to get in as Cassandra slipped through the ropes, ready for action. Fury began to argue with Cunningham as his wife hesitantly got into the ring, aware of what was happening. Diamond stepped out onto the apron, pumping the fans up as chants of “Cassandra” began to rise up from the Staples Center.

Trent Brown: These fans want to see Cassandra and Mary-Jane throw down, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: I can honestly say I that I have thought of this scenario many times in my head before, Trent… but there was usually less clothing involved.

Wallace finally got Steven onto the apron as Cassandra moved in to engage Fury. Frightened, Mary-Jane turned to her husband, quickly tagging herself out. Steven happily got back in the ring as Cassandra looked around, confused. The fans began to boo as Wallace began to escort Starr-Diamond to the apron as Michael got back into the ring.

Trent Brown: I guess Mary-Jane doesn’t want any of Cassandra, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: When you have a monster like Steven Fury, Trent… wouldn’t you want him in this match as much as possible? This is excellent strategy by the Fury’s here.

Cassandra is irritated at Mary-Jane’s cowardice as Diamond raises his hand to tag her back in again. Steven, however, interjects, yelling across the ring at Michael… insulting him and telling him to “fight him like a man”. The taunt is enough to work as Diamond lowers his hand and moves in to engage Steven. Michael moves in, diving at Fury with a “Spear” but Steven manages to catch Diamond in motion, swinging him around the ring with a “Front Facelock Airplane Spin”.

Trent Brown: Diamond in trouble here!

Steven easily spins Michael around the ring, his grip locked in tight as Diamond struggles to breathe. Fury finally relinquishes the hold and forcefully drops Michael to the ground as Diamond gasps for air. Steven taunts the crowd as more boos reign down on him.

Keith Kincaid: You can almost feel the pendulum swinging the other way, can’t you Trent?

Fury leans down and forcefully pulls Michael to his feet, not willing to give him a second longer to recover. Forcing Diamond’s head between his legs, Steven flips him up onto his shoulders and holds him up in “Powerbomb” type position. Instead, Fury runs towards his corner, slamming Diamond back first into the turnbuckle with a “Buckle Bomb”!

Keith Kincaid: Oh-ho-ho, did you hear that impact Trent!?

Diamond slumped to the ground, grabbing at his back as Mary-Jane laughed at the damage her husband was inflicting on “Your Hero”. Steven knelt down, grabbing a hold of Michael’s head and forcing him to look across the ring at Cassandra. Fury told Diamond he “should’ve tagged out when he had the chance” as he pulled Michael to his feet. Wrapping his arm around Diamond’s throat, Steven back to ascend the turnbuckle, lifting Michael up into the air and suspending him there with a “Hanging Dragon Sleeper”!

Trent Brown: Fury calls that the “Violent Dream” and he’s got this submission move locked in tight!

Since Diamond was, technically, near the ropes, Wallace began his count to five before Fury had to relinquish the hold. Steven took all the way to the count of four before finally letting up, Diamond collapsing to the mat once more, almost lifeless. The arena was deathly quiet, as if the fans were watching a live execution as Cassandra stood on the apron, powerless to stop it. Fury laughed to himself as he held out his hand like he was going to tag in his wife. Mary-Jane politely declined, instead telling her husband to “finish him off”.

Keith Kincaid: I told you this guy was a monster Trent, can you imagine him in his prime and the type of havoc he could’ve wrecked in the HWA!?

Trent Brown: The only HWA alumni to have fought Fury in the past was “The Sensation” Danny Starr… and he barely escaped that match with his life.

Keith Kincaid: Somehow, I don’t think Michael Diamond will be that lucky, Trent.

Steven pulled Diamond to his feet once more, his hand around his throat once again. Lifting Michael into the air, he sent Diamond crashing down hard onto his knee with a “Chokeslam Backbreaker”!

Trent Brown: “Destructive Blast”! “Destructive Blast”! Fury with that back-shattering “Destructive Blast” and this could be the end for Diamond!

Fury lazily slipped into the cover as Wallace made the count. One… Two… Cassandra jumped on top of Steven, hitting him with an elbow that knocked him off her husband!

Trent Brown: Oh my God, Cassandra with the save!

Keith Kincaid: What is she thinking!? Get out of there, Cassandra!

Steven appeared to be in shock as he turned his gaze to Starr-Diamond. Cassandra backed her way towards her corner as Fury got to his feet, stalking after her. Wallace tried to get in-between but Steven merely reached down, lifted Cunningham up, and repositioned him out of his way.

Keith Kincaid: Ha-ha, Fury picked Wallace up like he was nothing more than a toddler!

Starr-Diamond found her back against the corner as Fury pressed in, cutting off any escape route. Fans booed the action of Steven while, simultaneously, chanting “Cassandra” on, encouraging her not to back down. Fury towered over her, saying something to Starr-Diamond that “her brother couldn’t protect her anymore”. This phrase seemed to resonate within Cassandra as she narrowed her eyes and drove her knee right into the groin of Steven. The big man’s eyes seemed to bulge out of his head as he keeled over, lowering himself so Starr-Diamond could follow up with a series of slaps/claws to the face. The chants of “Cassandra” only grew louder as her rights and lefts connected with such ferocity that Wallace had to actually pull her off of the behemoth.

Trent Brown: Cassandra not backing down and Steven may’ve bitten off more than he can chew!

Keith Kincaid: She does have quite the mean streak, Trent.

Cunningham managed to restrain Starr-Diamond and get her back onto the apron as Fury sat in the middle of the ring, trying to catch his breath. Streaks of blood can be seen running down his face where Cassandra had dug her claws in. As Steven began to recover from the low blow, he pushed himself to his feet, his irate gaze focused on her once more. Fury struggled to find his voice as he yelled at her, indicating something along the lines of “I’m going to break Diamond just like I broke D-“ but the words caught in his throat as Michael had, somehow, gotten back to his feet. Diamond spun Steven around and leapt into the air, planting him face-first with an “RKO”!

Trent Brown: “Diamond Cutter”! “Diamond Cutter”! Diamond just hit the “Diamond Cutter” on Fury and both men are down!

Fury lay unmoving on the mat as Diamond normally would’ve gone right for the pin fall, had it not been for his damaged back. Michael rolled around in agony as Cassandra cheered her husband on, leaning over the ropes, demanding a tag.

Trent Brown: Cassandra wants in this match and this may be the opening that they need!

Diamond began to crawl his way towards his corner, looking for the tag. Every movement he made seemed to bring further agony as he stretched out his hand, Cassandra’s fingers mere inches away. Just as Michael dove for the tag, Starr-Diamond was violently pulled from the apron by Mary-Jane as she grabbed Cassandra and slammed her back-first into the steel steps.

Trent Brown: A sneak attack by Mary-Jane!

Keith Kincaid: Classic Mary-Jane Fury there.

Diamond glared at Mary-Jane as she simply winked back at him, before skipping back over to her side of the ring. Michael rolled out of the ring and knelt down beside Cassandra, checking on her. His visit was cut short as Steven had already recovered and met Diamond outside the ring, with a clubbing blow to the back of his head. Spinning Michael around, Fury shoved Diamond’s head in between his legs again. Once more, he lifted him up into a “Powerbomb” type hold, turned, and dropped Michael back-first onto the ring apron!

Trent Brown: Oh dear God, an “Apron Powerbomb” by Steven Fury and he may’ve just broken Diamond’s back there!

Wallace slid out of the ring and checked on the injured Diamond, ordering Fury to back off. Cassandra crawled over from her spot next to the ring steps as the two assessed the damage. Again, the crowd grew quiet, the only audible noise being the laughing of Mary-Jane and the cries of agony from Diamond.

Keith Kincaid: I did try to warn you, Trent… don’t piss off Steven Fury, it never ends well.

Cunningham checked to see if Michael could continue but Diamond refused to quit, shoving the referee away. Cassandra tried to tend to her injured husband as best as she could but the official being tossed aside was enough incentive for Steven to pounce, grabbing Diamond and lifting him to his feet and rolling him back into the ring. Fury then turned his attention to Cassandra who tried to back away, before the ring steps cut off her exit. As Starr-Diamond turned to try and run, Steven grabbed her by the hair, pulling her back towards him.

Keith Kincaid: Looks like Fury hasn’t forgotten about Cassandra’s early discretions in this match, Trent!

Trent Brown: Oh yeah, such a big man, Keith… attacking a woman like this.

Fury pulled Cassandra close to him, so he could see the fear in her eyes. Wrapping his hand around her throat, he allowed himself to be distracted by the boo’s and “Asshole” chants from the audience, their reaction seeming to only enrage him further. Before Steven had a chance to hit the “Destructive Blast”, Diamond had somehow recovered back in the ring and was bouncing off the ropes. As he neared the side of the ring where the two were, Michael leapt up onto the top rope, balancing there but for a second. The flash of movement forced Steven to turn as he saw Diamond twist off the top rope and land on top of him with a “Rope Step Corkscrew Plancha”!

Trent Brown: Diamond to the rescue!

Keith Kincaid: He may’ve very well just earned that “Hero” nickname with that one, Trent.

Starr-Diamond had been fortunate enough to break free of Steven’s grasp at the last second, narrowly avoiding the collision. “Holy Shit” chants rose up from the crowd as both men lay on the ground, while their wives looked on from ringside. Mary-Jane went to check on Steven while Cassandra began to pull Diamond up. Starr-Diamond rolled Michael into the ring, positioning him near their corner. Leaping up onto the apron, Cassandra reached over and tagged herself in as she turned her attention to Mary-Jane.

Keith Kincaid: Uh oh, Mary-Jane doesn’t realize that there’s been a tag!

Starr-Diamond slipped off the apron and charged at Mary-Jane. Seeing the furious Cassandra rushing at her, Fury turned and began to run around the ring. Realizing she wasn’t going to be able to outrun Starr-Diamond, Mary-Jane dove under the ring, trying to scamper away from harm. Cassandra managed to grab a hold of Fury’s ankle, however, and pulled her from underneath the ring.

Trent Brown: Cassandra finally gets her hands on Mary-Jane and this should get interesting real quick, Keith!

Starr-Diamond smirked to herself as she grabbed a fist full of Mary-Jane’s hair and yanked her to her feet. Keeping a firm grip on Fury’s hair, Cassandra threw Mary-Jane backwards, her back hitting hard off the ringside barricade. The impact was enough that Fury staggered forwards, right into Starr-Diamond as she flipped Mary-Jane down onto her back. Cassandra wasn’t finished, however, as she did a cartwheel so that she was now positioned in front of the female Fury, who had managed to force herself up into a sitting position. Starr-Diamond lunged forward, driving her knee right into the face of Mary-Jane as she grabbed at her nose, fearing it broken.

Trent Brown: A “Hip Toss & Knee Strike Combo” by Cassandra and Starr-Diamond may have just busted open Mary-Jane!

Keith Kincaid: Oh dear, Steven is definitely not going to like that!

Cassandra pulled Mary-Jane up to her feet and rolled her into the ring. Fury immediately crawled over to Wallace, wrapping her arms around the official’s legs and pleading with him to stop Starr-Diamond as Cassandra followed close behind. Cunningham looked from the woman wrapped around his legs, to the one standing in front of him. Knowing he had only one true option, Wallace reached down, said some comforting words to Mary-Jane, and then abruptly stepped back, freeing himself from her grasp. The fans laughed as Fury’s eyes went wide with fear, realizing she had nowhere left to hide and nowhere left to run.

Trent Brown: Looks like Wallace has opted to not be Mary-Jane’s “knight in shining armor” here.

Keith Kincaid: What kind of man does that, Trent!? Come here Mary-Jane, I’ll protect you.

Trent Brown: You really want to get in-between her and Cassandra Starr-Diamond, Keith?

Keith Kincaid: … on second thought, I’m sure she’ll be fine.

Mary-Jane’s nose wasn’t broken, but it definitely had traces of blood dripping from it. With the back of her hand, she wiped the red substance from her face as she rose to her feet. Straightening her clothes and taking a deep breath, she turned to face Cassandra as if she had hoped to somehow come to a diplomatic solution. Instead, she was met with a firm kick to the gut as Starr-Diamond pulled Fury’s head in between her legs. Pinning Mary-Jane’s arms behind her back, Cassandra sent Fury crashing face-first to the mat with a “Pedigree”!

Trent Brown: “Starr Drop”! “Starr Drop”! Cassandra with the “Starr Drop” on Mary-Jane and this one could be it!

Keith Kincaid: Oh no, her poor beautiful face!

Cassandra rolled Mary-Jane onto her back and made the cover. One… Two… Steven grabbed Starr-Diamond’s ankle and forcefully pulled her off his wife. For a moment, Fury leaned over his Mary-Jane, assessing the damage, before his eyes fell on Cassandra once again. Starr-Diamond forced herself to her feet as Steven rushed forward, lunging at her. At the last second, Michael managed to push Cassandra out of the way as Fury, instead, drove Diamond down hard to the mat with a vicious “Spear”!

Trent Brown: Diamond, again, managing to protect his wife from harm’s way but this time it cost him!

Keith Kincaid: I can only imagine the amount of internal injuries he has at this point, Trent… its great!

Steven realized he had missed his true mark as he rose up to his feet, to see Cassandra lunging towards him. Fury caught Starr-Diamond’s foot, blocking the “Superkick” attempt. Before Cassandra had a chance to react, Steven pushed her foot down and followed it up with a malicious “Clothesline” that nearly took her head off!

Trent Brown: Oh my God! Cassandra may be knocked out cold!

Too often had the air been taken out of the building during this match, this moment was no exception once again. Wallace went to check on Cassandra as Fury stood tall in the ring, all the other competitors laying in the wake of destruction. Steven went over to his wife, gently picking her up and bringing her over to Starr-Diamond. Fury laid Mary-Jane on Cassandra’s prone body as Cunningham looked up in disbelief, having wanting to first ensure that she was medically stable. Steven simply looked at the referee, ordering him to “count”.

Trent Brown: You’ve got to be kidding me, Cassandra could be seriously hurt here, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: If Wallace doesn’t want to be seriously hurt here, he better do as Steven Fury wants.

Tentatively, Wallace did as he was told. One… Two… Kick-out!

Trent Brown: Yes! Yes! Cassandra kicked out!

Keith Kincaid: How on earth did she do that!?

Fury looked on in disbelief as Mary-Jane lay to the side of Cassandra, Starr-Diamond somehow summoning up enough power to simply slide out from underneath Fury’s weight and avoid the pin fall. Steven grabbed Wallace, blaming him for “robbing” him of his victory but before Fury could do any harm to the referee, Diamond was back to his feet, leaping in the air and kicking Steven with such velocity that Fury went flying backwards into the nearby turnbuckle!

Trent Brown: A “Shotgun Dropkick” by Diamond and Steven is reeling!

Steven stumbled away from the corner as Michael got back to his feet and charged forward. Fury looked to catch Diamond, lifting him up for another “pop-up” type move. Michael used his momentum, however, to fly over Steven and use his athleticism to land on the top turnbuckle. Confused, Fury spun around as Diamond leapt off backwards at Steven, twisting through the air and dropping Fury to the mat with a “Whisper in the Wind”!

Trent Brown: Diamond, again, somehow manages to take the big man off his feet!

Chants of “Diamond” stirred throughout the HWA faithful as Michael bounced up to his feet, only to be met with a vicious slap from Mary-Jane!

Keith Kincaid: Bet that isn’t the first time Michael’s felt that, Trent.

The crowd “ooh’d” and “aah’d” at the impact as Diamond looked at the female Fury with a look of shock on his face. Mary-Jane seemed to question whether or not that was the smartest thing as she began to back away, right into Cassandra. Starr-Diamond spun Fury around, kicking her in the gut and pulling her head close to her body. Cassandra winked at her husband as she spun around, dropping Mary-Jane’s jaw onto her shoulder with a “Sit-Out Twist of Fate”!

Trent Brown: Cassandra with her own variation of her husband’s “Diamond Cutter” and both Fury’s are down!

Keith Kincaid: And it looks like both Diamond’s want to go up!

Michael and Cassandra headed to opposite turnbuckles, both husband and wife going through the ropes and ascending to the top rope. Diamond sat perched near Steven’s prone body as Cassandra perched close to the unmoving Mary-Jane. Both rose up to their feet, balancing themselves as they looked across the ring at the other. At the same time, they both flipped off the turnbuckle, crashing onto their victims with synchronized “Swanton Bombs”!

Trent Brown: Diamond and Cass with a “Prism” and “Falling Starr” at the same time and the HWA’s original power couple may have just pulled off the upset!

Both went for the covers, looking for the double pin fall attempt. One… Two… Steven kicked-out with such aggression that Diamond ended up rolling into Cassandra, inadvertently breaking up his wife’s pin attempt on Mary-Jane!

Keith Kincaid: Ha-ha-ha, what an idiot! If Diamond had just let Cassandra get the pin, this one would’ve been over. This is what I’m talking about Trent, he always has to show-off!

Starr-Diamond looked to her husband in confusion as Michael shook his head, apologizing and trying to explain what had happened. Diamond helped Cassandra to her feet, only to go crashing into her as Fury hit Michael from behind. Starr-Diamond fell to the mat as Michael staggered back into Steven, Fury picking Diamond up for another one of his “Powerbomb” type moves. Instead, he flipped Diamond over him and held Michael’s arms back, before sitting down and planting Diamond face first onto the mat!

Keith Kincaid: A beautiful “Gory Bomb” by Steven Fury and this could be it!

Trent Brown: But Michael and Steven aren’t the legal participants, Keith!

Steven went quickly for the cover but just as Trent had said, Wallace didn’t make the count. Fury was irate, mentioning the double count moments ago but Cunningham simply shrugged his shoulders and pointed to Mary-Jane, indicating that she was currently the legal representative for their team. Steven forced himself to his feet and dragged his wife over to their corner. Stepping out onto the apron, Fury reached over and tagged himself in, now making himself legal.

Keith Kincaid: I think the end may be near here, Trent!

Steven stalked after Diamond as Michael slowly got back up to his feet. Fury bent down and lifted Diamond up onto his shoulders. Steven flipped Michael down towards the mat with an “Attitude Adjustement” but as Diamond began to fall, he managed to grab Fury’s head and bring him face-down with an “RKO”!

Trent Brown: Fury looking for the “Dose of Reality” on Diamond but he managed to counter into the “Diamond Cutter” and both men are down!

Keith Kincaid: Not sure either man got all of their finisher there, Trent… but they obviously got enough!

Wallace started his double count as Cassandra managed to make her way back to their side of the ring. One… Two… Cassandra screamed for Michael to get up… Three… Four… Steven began to stir as he started to crawl towards his corner… Five… Six… Fury used the ropes to pull himself up to his feet, meaning Diamond was now the only one in threat of losing by count out… Seven… Eight… the fans chant “Diamond”, trying to will him back into this match and causing him to roll onto his belly… Nine… Michael made one last ditch effort, diving to his corner and tagging his wife in, breaking up the count-out!

Trent Brown: Diamond narrowly avoiding the count out and this match will continue!

Cassandra climbed into the ring as Steven shook his head, not willing to let her do any more damage to his wife. Fury began to close the gap with Starr-Diamond as Cassandra ran at him, no fear in her eyes. Steven lifted his leg, looking for a “Big Boot” but Starr-Diamond slid under the blow. Fury whipped around, just as Cassandra lunged forward and caught him with a boot right under his jaw!

Trent Brown: “Superkick” by Cassandra and the big man is reeling!

Fury turned and stumbled around the ring as Diamond was back up, leaping into the air and delivering another kick to the side of Steven’s head with a “Step-Up Enziguri”! The impact sent Fury staggering back towards Cassandra as she leapt into the air, driving both of her feet into his face with a “Missile Dropkick”! Again, the impact wasn’t enough to bring the big man off his feet as he teetered back into the direction of Diamond once more.

Keith Kincaid: Nothing they do can bring Fury to his knees, Trent! I told you, this guys is an absolute beast!

Michael turned and leapt backwards, bringing his leg up and kicking Fury in the face once more with the second “Pele Kick” of the night!

Trent Brown: Another “Overshadow” and, still, Fury won’t go down!

The impact of Diamond’s signature move was enough to get Steven down to a knee but, still, he would not go down. Michael and Cassandra looked at each other, both trying to figure out what they could do. Diamond motioned for his wife to come stand beside him as Fury began to rise up once again. The two HWA stars leapt up into the air, grabbing ahold of Steven’s head and driving him viciously face-first down into the mat with a double “RKO”!

Trent Brown: A double “Diamond Cutter” and finally they have managed to get Steven off his feet!

Keith Kincaid: But they made a critical mistake Trent, they forgot that Steven wasn’t the legal participant!

As Wallace began to escort Diamond back to the apron, Mary-Jane had now perched herself up on the top turnbuckle, waiting to strike. Cassandra turned as the female Fury leapt off, looking for a “Codebreaker” from of the rope! Starr-Diamond managed to catch Mary-Jane however, holding her legs as she dropped Fury down hard to the mat!

Keith Kincaid: “Manslaughter” from the top… oh no!

Trent Brown: Cassandra countered!

Still holding onto Mary-Jane’s legs, Cassandra moved Fury so she was lying face and chest-first on the mat while Starr-Diamond synched in the “Lion Tamer”!

Trent Brown: Is that the “Halls of Sensation”!? Cassandra playing homage to her brother and HWA Legend, Danny Starr!

Keith Kincaid: Do your research Trent, she calls that the “Super Nova” and it’s a little different variation from the “Boston Crab”-type move that “The Sensation” uses.

Trent Brown: Well whatever it’s called, it seems to be doing the trick as Mary-Jane looks like she is going to tap out!

Mary-Jane screamed out in pain as she tried to claw her way to the ropes but Cassandra was unrelenting, not giving her an inch. Out of desperation, Fury called out to her husband but he hadn’t moved since the double “Diamond Cutter” moments before.

Trent Brown: Mary-Jane has nowhere else left to go!

Keith Kincaid: It can’t end like this!

Realizing that there was no other choice, Mary-Jane buried her head into the canvas as her hand repeatedly tapped the mat.

Trent Brown: Yes! Yes! Cassandra did it! Cassandra made Mary-Jane tap!

Starr-Diamond released her hold on the female Fury as Wallace called for the bell, awarding the victory to the HWA! The roof nearly blew off the Staples Center as, for the first time in the night, the HWA now held a point advantage over the High Society!

Trent Brown: Michael Diamond and Cassandra Starr-Diamond have done it and now the HWA is up 4 to 3… care to switch sides, Keith?

Michael slipped through the ropes and embraced his wife in a hug as she fought back the tears of excitement. Diamond lifted Cassandra’s hand up in victory as the fans gave them a standing ovation. The first “F… o… S…” chants of the night began as the two looked around the ring, knowing very well that they weren’t the same without the rest of their stable by their side. None-the-less, the two went to the turnbuckles and paid their respects to the fans as Steven recovered enough to pull his wife to safety. The two High Society members began to make their way up the ramp as Fury looked back over his shoulder, promising the HWA’s original power couple that “he wasn’t finished with them yet”.

Trent Brown: Perhaps Steven should’ve asked for help from his comrades after all, eh Keith?

Keith Kincaid: It took an onslaught of offense at the end to even bring Steven down; there is absolutely nothing he should be ashamed of. As for Mary-Jane, we both knew she had very limited wrestling experience coming into to tonight so it makes sense that Michael and Cassandra would target her in this match.

Trent Brown: Well whatever the strategy, it paid off and now the HWA is one win away from securing their legacy and defeating Eric Rayne and the High Society!

Tristan Wolfe sat in his locker room, pouring water out of his boots as the sound of water running can be heard in the background. Wolfe began lacing up his sodden footwear as Dan Sawyer and Grimjack burst into his locker room, scaring the Irish man half-to-death.

Tristan Wolfe: Fecking eh, don’t you two know how to knock?

Dan Sawyer: No time for that, we need your help… right now!

Tristan Wolfe: Ah wish ah could help ye, but mah lady is just…

Dan Sawyer: Tristan, please!

Tristan groaned as he rose to his feet, rubbing his wounded neck.

Tristan Wolfe: Let me guess… the fate of the HWA is at stake?

Dan Sawyer: Something like that, now come on… let’s go!

Sawyer turned and ran off as Tristan simply sighed, turning his attention to Grimjack, who was suspiciously looking up and down Wolfe’s damp attire.

Grimjack: You know, you’re supposed to take your clothes off before you shower…

Tristan Wolfe: Where’s the fun in that?

As if sensing the location of the camera, Tristan turned and looked directly into it, winking at the viewers behind the lens, sharing in the “secret” with them. Grimjack followed Wolfe’s gaze, looking at the camera and then back at the Irish man.

Grimjack: Who are you winking at…?

Tristan chuckled to himself, slapped Grimjack on the arm, and walked out of the locker room, every movement accompanied by the “sloshing” sound of his soggy boots.

Grimjack: And people think I’m the “crazy” one…

Grimjack trailed after the other two as the camera lingered a moment longer, the locker room door slowly closing behind him.

Trent Brown: I wonder what Sawyer is up to now, Keith?

Keith Kincaid: Who cares! Can we get back in there; maybe get a peak of Syren!?

Trent Brown: One of these days, your words are going to get you in a lot of trouble, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: I may have a few restraining orders floating out there, Trent… but I assure you, those were all misunderstandings.

The scene changes to a different backstage area as Michael Diamond and Cassandra Starr-Diamond are walking down the hallway, smiles on their faces. Michael has his arm around Cassandra as the two joyously reminisce over their victory over the Fury’s. Suddenly, a group of Stormcorp soldiers surround the pair, the mercenaries wielding Taser pistols and aiming them at the HWA superstars. Diamond tried to instinctively stand between his wife and harm’s way, but there were too many soldiers and too many angles.

Michael Diamond: Can I help you gentlemen…?

Stormcorp Leader: We’ve waited a long time for this moment, Diamond. You’re coming with us… now. Don’t resist and we won’t have to take any “extreme” measures.

Michael studied the threat before him, not recognizing any faces or any detail that would shed light on the situation. Realizing that this was an entirely new menace to add to his long list of antagonists, Diamond turned to Cassandra, raising his hands in the air.

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: Michael!? What are you…?

Michael Diamond: It’s okay Cassandra… just do as they say.

Starr-Diamond looked furious, yet she stood still while one of the Stormcorp soldiers moved in, grabbing Michael’s arms and pulling them behind his back. The mercenary began to zip-tie his wrists together as Diamond leaned in, touching his forehead to hers.

Michael Diamond: Don’t worry… I’ll be okay.

Before Cassandra could respond, a loud whistling noise was heard. The soldiers turned to see the HWA resistance of Dan Sawyer, Grimjack, and Tristan Wolfe standing in their path. Sawyer patted the barbed-wire bat into his palm as he eyed up the mercenary company before him.

Stormcorp Leader: Not sure who you three think you are, but our fight isn’t with you…

Dan Sawyer: That’s where you’re wrong. See, that guy right there…

Dan pointed the bat at the captured Hero.

Dan Sawyer: … he’s with us.

Tristan cocked his eyebrow up, turning and looking over at Sawyer.

Tristan Wolfe: Ah feel like that statement requires further explanation.

Grimjack: Right, we’re not… “with” him… not like that.

Tristan Wolfe: Not that there’s anythin’ wrong with that, obviously. He is a rather attractive individual…

Grimjack: Oh yeah, for sure… and that “Million Dollar Smile”…

Tristan Wolfe: Right!? I totally get why the lasses all swoon over him…

Dan Sawyer: Guys… focus! Mercs… guns… remember?

The three unlikely would-be rescuers turn back to the Stormcorp threat as the hardened soldier group aim their Tasers now all in their direction.

Stormcorp Leader: We’re going… now. I suggest that you gentlemen stand aside…

Before the leader could finish his sentence, a canister rolled across the ground, stopping right at his feet. As he looked down, his eyes went wide as smoke began to billow out from the grenade. The fog is so dense and thick that nothing can be seen, sounds of hacking coughs and a violent scuffle the only noises that can be heard. After a series of seconds, the mist dissipates as Diamond is left kneeling next to Cassandra, his wrists now free. The “rescuers” attempt to wave away the smoke as they survey the scene, the entire company of Stormcorp soldiers left lying on the ground. Michael looked around in shock, before his eyes fell on an individual standing on the opposite side of the group.

Michael Diamond: … Sett?

The camera pans over to show the “Dark One” standing before them.

Sett: Thought I taught you better than that, Diamond. Never let your guard down…

Sett turned away and proceeded down the hallway as Sawyer approached the HWA power couple, attempting to explain to them what was going on.

Trent Brown: What the hell was that, Keith!?

Keith Kincaid: I guess Stormcorp isn’t private security for the High Society…?

The camera, much to the excitement of Keith Kincaid, showed us back in the HWA locker room once more. The sound of a shower turning off is heard as a towel comes into view. Syren graciously accepts it, wrapping the fabric around her body as she steps into view.

Syren: Thanks Tris…

Her voice suddenly catches in her throat as she looks upon the person standing before her. Syren stands in shock, unable to comprehend what is happening.

Syren: W-what… are you doing here?

The camera fades to black as the HWA audience look around in confusion.

Keith Kincaid: No! Someone get the video feed back! It was Syren in a towel!

Trent Brown: But who was she talking to, Keith?

Keith Kincaid: Who cares, Trent! Syren… towel…

As Keith tried not to hyperventilate once more; “I Have the Power” by All Good Things feat. Phil X plays over the loud speakers as a shower of golden sparks rain down from the rafters over the entranceway. Brandon Kayros emerges from the sparks as he flexed his gigantic muscles for the fans as they all stare in awe.

Erin Wallace: Standing at 6’7” and weighing in at 269lbs… he is “The Defining Standard”… Brandon… Kayros!

Brandon is decked out in black leather pants, biker boots, and a half-zipper sleeveless black shirt, complemented with black elbow pads, black wrist tape, and black weight lifting gloves. Kayros struts down to the ring, taunting the fans with his tremendous build all the way to ringside. Rolling into the ring, Brandon stands in the middle of the ring and flaunted his physique once again.

Keith Kincaid: A very impressive specimen here, Trent.

Trent Brown: Two goliaths colliding in this match!

“Vultures (instrumental)” by The Offspring plays over the speakers as the lights go out, leaving the arena in pitch black. Slowly, smoke begins to pour out of the entrance way as, one-by-one; the ramp lights begin to light up, illuminating the path.

Erin Wallace: And his opponent, standing at 6’10” and weighing in at 275lbs... Sett!

The fans are on their feet, cheering for the HWA legend, despite his absence of an appearance.

Keith Kincaid: Where is he, Trent?

Trent Brown: We just saw him backstage, Keith… we know he’s here!

After a moment, the music stops and the lights return to normal. Brandon stands in the ring in confusion, unaware that Sett now stood directly behind him. The fans began screaming their approval as Kayros looks out at the audience, confused. Sett remained unmoving, frozen like a statute, his head down, his eyes concealed by the black cowboy hat atop his head. He was wearing his normal long, loose black pants, which looked like faux leather in appearance. Accompanying this is a dark grey tank top, which clung tightly to his muscular body. Draped around his shoulders is a long, black leather duster-style jacket. Frustrated with the mind games, Brandon turned around and nearly walked directly into the “Dark One”, the sudden realization that Sett was here, in the ring, was enough to send him falling to his ass. The fans laughed at Kayros’ expense as Sett slowly pulled the cowboy hat off, his gaze never leaving his opponent. Tossing the hat to the side, Sett began to slip the jacket from off his shoulders as Kayros managed to find his feet once again. Brandon, as best as he could, stood eye-to-eye with Sett, the two men trying to intimidate the other.

Keith Kincaid: A slight height and weight advantage for Sett, but Brandon looks like he was chiseled out of stone, Trent!

Trent Brown: The very definition of a heavyweight bout, Keith and let’s not forget… the HWA leads 4 to 3 right now. If Sett wins this match, he secures the HWA’s legacy once and for all!

Keith Kincaid: That’s a pretty big ask, Trent. According to my sources, “The Defining Standard” has never lost a match.

Wallace checked with both competitors before ringing the bell, indicating this match officially underway. The fans cheer in anticipation, chants of “Sett” rising up from the crowd as the “Dark One” stood still, waiting for Brandon to make the first move. Kayros, not convinced that Sett was as “bad-ass” as he claimed to be, fakes like he is going to strike Sett but is unable to even make him flinch. Brandon looked around the ring, his resolve beginning to wane. Throwing his hands up in the air, as if he “quit”, Kayros seemed to not be interested in tangling with Sett as he started to back away. Brandon backed up against the ropes, bouncing off them and using them to quickly charge towards Sett. Kayros threw his arm up in the air, looking to take Sett’s head off with a “Clothesline from Hell” but the “Dark One” simply ducked the blow. Brandon missed terribly, falling to the mat as Sett slowly turned, looking down at “The Defining Standard”.

Trent Brown: Sett playing mind games with Brandon here!

Keith Kincaid: I don’t get what he’s doing, Trent… why isn’t Sett pressing the attack!?

Kayros glared up at Sett, slamming his fist into the mat. Brandon pushed himself up quickly, getting in Sett’s face once more, shouting at him. Infuriated, Kayros shoved Sett, the force enough to make Sett stagger back a few feet. With lightning speed, Sett grabbed Brandon around the throat, looking for a vicious “Chokeslam”!

Trent Brown: Looks like Sett is about to take Kayros on the “South Texas Deathride”!

Out of desperation, Brandon managed to pull Sett’s hand from around his throat as he stumbled backwards, trying to create some distance. The “Dark One” allowed the reprieve as Kayros fell back against the ropes, rubbing his throat, realizing just how close Sett was to hitting his deadly Signature Move. Angry, Brandon rushed forward once more only for Sett to duck down and hoist Kayros up onto his shoulders. Before “The Defining Standard” could react, Sett was rushing over to the nearest turnbuckle and dropping him face-first onto it with a “Snake Eyes”!

Trent Brown: “Snake Eyes” by Sett and classic move there by the “Dark One”!

As Brandon stumbled away, Sett bounced off the opposite ropes, lifting his boot up and kicking Kayros right in the face!

Trent Brown: And now a running “Big Boot” by Sett and “The Defining Standard” just got laid out on his ass!

Kayros hit the mat hard as he, instinctively, rolled to the outside, safely avoiding a pin fall attempt. The fans booed as Brandon touched his face, making sure nothing had been broken from the impact. The chants of “Sett” grew louder and louder as the “Dark One” stood in the center of the ring, patiently waiting his opponent.

Keith Kincaid: I don’t remember Sett being so… creepy.

Almost as if Sett could hear this, he shot a glance over to the announce table as Keith nervously pointed at his co-commentator, trying to pass it off as something that Trent had said. Seeing this as a possible opening, Kayros slid into the ring and rushed Sett, looking for the “Clothesline from Hell” once more. The “Dark One” managed to side-step the blow, grabbing Brandon’s arm and twisting it in the process. Dragging Kayros over to the nearest turnbuckle, Sett began to ascend to the top.

Trent Brown: I think we’re about to see some vintage Sett here, Keith!

Holding onto Brandon’s wrist, Sett began to walk across the top rope, balancing on them with ease. Kayros wiggled his wrist free of Sett’s grasp and stumbled away, barely avoiding the “Old School”. The fans booed “The Defining Standard’s” cowardice but the jeers quickly turned to cheers at the fact that Sett remained balancing on the ropes, barely impeded by Brandon’s actions.

Keith Kincaid: How is Sett doing that!?

Trent Brown: Impressive agility by the “Dark One”!

Hearing the crowd’s reaction change from negative to positive, Kayros turned back to his opponent, only for Sett to come crashing down onto him with a “Diving Clothesline” from the top rope!

Trent Brown: Sett has been in complete control this whole match, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: All part of “The Defining Standard’s” plan to lull Sett into a false sense of security, Trent.

Sett rose back to his feet and stared down at his opponent, raising his arm up into the air, signaling for his finisher – “The Journey”.

Trent Brown: I think it might be time for Brandon to change up his game plan, Keith!

As if he just jinxed Sett, Stormcorp mercenaries began emerging from the crowd, leaping over the ringside barricade and sliding into the ring. At once, they surrounded Sett, the soldiers wielding stun batons and striking at the “Dark One”! Wallace, too, was struck inadvertently when he went to stop the Stormcorp officers from interfering.

Trent Brown: What the hell is this!? First they attack Michael Diamond backstage and now this…!?

Keith Kincaid: Looks like things are looking up for “The Defining Standard”!

Sett fell to a knee as the electricity coursed through his body. The fans, confused, began booing at this outside interference as they watched their HWA legend get tortured before their very eyes. Thrashing out, Sett wasn’t willing to go down without a fight as he began throwing fists, striking at everything and anything within range. The “Dark One” managed to fight back to a standing base as he began laying out one mercenary after another with brutal punches!

Trent Brown: My God, Sett is fighting back!

Keith Kincaid: This guy is a one-man-army, Trent!

When the dust was settled, Sett was laying amidst a circle of bodies, blood rolling from his lip, nose, and a gash across his head, suffered at the hands of the mercenaries and their weapons. However, the group of soldiers had provided the distraction that Brandon desperately needed as he attacked Sett from behind, wrapping his arms around the “Dark One’s” waist. Falling backwards, Kayros dropped Sett onto the back of his head, keeping his grip locked in tight. Brandon pulled Sett back up to his feet once more before lifting him up and slamming him down once more on his head. This one seemed to do the trick as Sett seemed visibly shaken, his legs giving out as Kayros tried to pull him up for a third “German Suplex”. Brandon struggled to keep Sett from collapsing but managed to hit the trifecta, dropping the “big man” down onto his head once more with “Multiple German Suplexes”!

Keith Kincaid: The “Masterpiece” by Brandon and what a thing of beauty that was, Trent!

Kayros popped up to his feet, energized as he surveyed the damage around the ring for the first time. Sett began to stagger to his feet as Brandon lay in wait, flexing his arm. The “Dark One” turned around as Kayros charged forward, catching Sett right in the throat with a devastating “Clothesline from Hell”!

Trent Brown: What a “Clothesline” from Brandon and the third time appears to be the charm, as he finally hits that brutal move!

Keith Kincaid: I think Sett is out, Trent!

Brandon fell into the cover, looking to end the match but Cunningham was still down from the assault by the Stormcorp mercenaries. Rolling his eyes and muttering how Wallace was “useless”, Kayros pulled Sett to his feet as, again, the “Dark One” was barely able to walk under his own weight. Brandon shoved Sett into the corner, delivering a series of ferocious stiff shots to his gut and head. Confident that Sett wouldn’t put up a fight, Kayros managed to lift the “Dark One” onto the top turnbuckle. Climbing up the ropes, Brandon wrapped his arm around Sett’s neck. Falling backwards, “The Defining Standard” sent Sett crashing hard down onto his back before rolling through, somehow deadlifting the “Dark One” up, and slamming him down onto his back once more!

Trent Brown: An amazing display of power by Kayros with that “Superplex and Falcon Arrow combo”!

Keith Kincaid: How many people can you say could actually deadlift Sett off the mat like that, Trent!?

Kayros made the cover on Sett once more but, still, Wallace seemed to be out cold from the Stormcorp assault. Enraged, Brandon moved away from the “Dark One” and tried to nudge the referee with his boot, trying to rouse him.

Keith Kincaid: Typical Cunningham, sleeping on the job.

Trent Brown: The amount of abuse this man has endured on this evening alone, Keith… you’d think you could give him a break!

Keith Kincaid: You’re just saying that because the HWA is benefitting from his ineptness right now.

Kayros gave up on Cunningham as he decided to roll out of the ring and head to the announcer’s table. Promising to show the world just why he is “The Defining Standard”, Brandon began to clear the announce table off, evil intentions in mind.

Trent Brown: Just once, I’d like to go through an event without our table getting destroyed.

Keith Kincaid: Move first… complain later Trent!

Kayros went back into the ring, pulling Sett out with him. Standing before the announce table, Brandon indicated that he was ready for his Finisher – the “Defining Standard”. Wrapping his arm around Sett, he tried to lift him up but the “Dark One” fought back, refusing to be lifted off the ground. Brandon dug deep, attempting to lift Sett up once more but, again, to no avail. The “Dark One” spun away from Kayros’ grip, instead wrapping his hand around Brandon’s throat. Before he could react, “The Defining Standard” was lifted up into the air and sent crashing through the table with a violent “Chokeslam”!

Trent Brown: “South Texas Deathride”! “South Texas Deathride”! Sett countered the “Defining Standard” and just sent Kayros crashing through our announce table with that “South Texas Deathride”!

Sett had no time to celebrate his near annihilation as he was assaulted by the Stormcorp mercenaries again, the group striking him with those batons once more. The fans rained boos down as the “Dark One” crumpled to the ground, the high voltage coursing through his veins.

Trent Brown: This is a damn assault, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: I feel like I’m watching a gang beat down Trent… this is great!

Trent Brown: Someone has to stop this!

At that moment, HWA reinforcements arrived as Dan Sawyer, Grimjack, and Tristan Wolfe emerged from behind the curtain and ran down the ramp. The three went after the mercenaries, Sawyer swinging his barbed-wire baseball bat at anything that moved while Grimjack and Wolfe threw fists at the soldiers. An all-out-brawl ensued as Tristan tackled a few of the soldiers over the barricade and into the crowd. Grimjack would lock in a submission hold on one mercenary until the next unfortunate one would venture into his path, in which he’d apply another unique wrestling lock. Sawyer battled with one of the mercenaries, using his bat against their baton in some sort of “Star Wars-esque” lightsaber battle. Sett slowly began to recover, as he reached the apron and pulled himself to his feet. Brandon, too, had managed to get to his feet as he attacked the “Dark One” from behind, slamming Sett’s face repeatedly into the apron. Blood flowing freely from Sett’s mouth, nose, and his face, Kayros rolled Sett into the ring, satisfied with his assault.

Trent Brown: An absolute vicious display by Kayros there and this whole match has become one chaotic disaster, Keith!

Brandon rolled into the ring, flexing his muscles and signaling for his Finisher once more. The fans booed in response as Wallace, finally, began to stir. Kayros turned back to Sett, looking to finish the “Dark One” only for him to sit up abruptly. Stunned, Brandon watched in horror as Sett pushed himself to his feet.

Keith Kincaid: How is Sett even standing at this point!?

Shaking off the shock, Kayros bounced off the ropes and caught Sett under the chin with another ruthless “Clothesline from Hell”! The “Dark One” fell back to the mat but, almost immediately, sat back up again.

Trent Brown: Sett just took another “Clothesline from Hell” and bounced right back up!

Keith Kincaid: This guy is inhuman, Trent!

Brandon looked on in disbelief as Sett got back up to his feet again. Moving in again, Kayros wrapped his arms around Sett’s neck, lifting him up and throwing the “Dark One” over his body with an “Exploder Suplex”. Again, the instant Sett’s back hit the mat; he was immediately up to a sitting position.

Trent Brown: The “Dark One” digging deep here, pulling from some otherworldly power right now!

Disheartened, Brandon shook his head as he ran off the ropes again, looking for another “Clothesline from Hell”. Sett caught him, however, wrapping his hand around Kayros’ throat once more.

Trent Brown: Brandon could be going for another ride, Keith!

Seeing that Wallace wasn’t quite back up to his feet yet, Kayros delivered a stiff kick in-between Sett’s legs. The “Dark One” doubled over from the low blow but for a moment, before straightening right back up, his eyes narrowing. Brandon shook his head in disbelief as Sett lifted him up into the air and sent him crashing down onto the mat once more with another “Chokeslam”!

Trent Brown: Another “South Texas Deathride” and Sett can end the High Society right here and now!

Keith Kincaid: No! It can’t end like this, Trent!

Before Sett could go for the cover, another barrage of mercenaries descended down the ramp, led by the same Stormcorp Leader the “Dark One” had encountered backstage earlier. Sett prepared for the onslaught as a pair of soldiers slid into the ring and rushed forward. Sett charged forward, catching the first mercenary with a “Big Boot”! He dodged the baton strike from the other, following it up with a vicious punch to that soldier’s throat. The mercenary doubled over as Sett quickly pulled his head in-between his legs. The “Dark One” flipped the soldier up onto his shoulders before running and launching him off, over the top rope, and into the next wave of Stormcorp reinforcements!

Trent Brown: Sett fighting like a man-possessed as he just did a “Powerbomb Toss” onto that Stormcorp officer, sending him crashing into his own allies!

Keith Kincaid: He just took out that battalion of troops with one move!

Like a bowling ball hitting pins, the group collapsed to the ground in a heap as Sett stood in the ring, staring at the Stormcorp Leader as he seemed to debate if he really wanted to proceed any further. Once more, however, the group had proved to be the best diversion as Kayros snuck up behind Sett and wrapped his arms around his waist once more. Brandon fell backwards, dropping the “Dark One” on the back of his head! Keeping his fingers interlocked, Kayros pulled Sett up and dropped him down again! Not done yet, “The Defining Standard” pulled him up one last time, lifting him up and slamming him down on his skull again with another series of “Multiple German Suplexes”.

Keith Kincaid: A second dose of the “Masterpiece” and Kayros is right back in this one, Trent!

Trent Brown: Think again, Keith!

Sett, again, sat right back up… unbeknownst to Brandon, who was showboating in the ring. Rising to his feet, Kayros turned around to see the bloodied-face of the “Dark One” staring back at him. Sett delivered a stiff kick to Brandon’s gut, doubling him over. Pulling Kayros’ head in-between his legs, the “Dark One” signaled for his Finisher.

Trent Brown: I think it’s finally time Brandon goes on a little “Journey” here, Keith!

Sett lifted Brandon up into the air, holding him up and preparing to drop him with the “Sit-Out Last Ride Powerbomb”. However, the Stormcorp Leader had snuck down to the ring and was now standing beside the ringside apron, a “spider-man” gun aimed into the ring at Sett. Pulling the trigger, the wire shot out from the gun and wrapped around the “Dark One’s” legs. Sett seemed to stumble, unable to complete his Finisher as Kayros slipped out of his grasp. With Sett’s legs hindered, he was helpless to stop Brandon from wrapping his arms around his neck, lifting him into the air, and spinning him down onto the back of his head with the “Final Cut”!

Keith Kincaid: Yes! Yes! The “Defining Standard”!

Brandon floated into the cover as Cunningham dropped to the mat and made the count. One… Two… Three! Even with Sett’s legs tied, he somehow managed to power Brandon off of him, but unfortunately not in time. The “Dark One” sat up in disbelief as he looked over at Wallace as the referee held up the three fingers.

Trent Brown: Wait, did Sett kick out!?

Keith Kincaid: I don’t think he did in time, Trent!

Sure enough, Cunningham begrudgingly called for the bell as the fans began to throw trash into the ring. Brandon smirked down at Sett, before quickly hightailing it out of the ring as the “Dark One” struggled to get to his feet.

Trent Brown: It took a damn army to win this one for the High Society but damn if we aren’t all tied up at 4 a-piece-now!

Keith Kincaid: Which means it all comes down to Royalty vs. Rayne, Trent. I wouldn’t like the HWA’s odds, if I were you.

Kayros walked backwards up the ramp as he looked back at Sett, while the combined forces of Sawyer, Grimjack, and Tristan slid into the ring and stood beside the “Dark One”.

Trent Brown: Sett put up one hell-of-a-fight tonight, Keith. I’d like to see one of your High Society members fight off a bunch of mercenaries the way that he did.

Keith Kincaid: Sometimes Trent, it’s not about who’s the strongest… but who’s the smartest. Give the assist to Stormcorp, sure… but Brandon still gets the “W” and now we head into the Main Event with it all on the line!

Sawyer uses the barbed wire from his bat to cut Sett’s legs free as the “Dark One” paced around the ring in frustration. Despite the loss, the fans still give the HWA Legend a standing ovation. The other three HWA wrestlers leave the ring, allowing Sett his moment in the spotlight as he looked out at the HWA faithful.

Trent Brown: A well deserving endorsement from the fans here in the Staples Center and, no doubt, around the world. I hate that this match ended the way that it did, Keith… but the night is not over yet folks; not for HWA and, something tells me… not for Sett!

Trent Brown: Well folks, it all comes down to this! One last match; one final victory and the HWA will have secured its place in history.

Keith Kincaid: On the flip side of that Trent, if Royalty loses – it all comes crumbling down.

A recap of the previous final moments/highlights from each match is shown, helping the live crowd and fans watching from home keep track of the current score. With HWA and High Society tied at 4 points apiece, this main event is now the deciding factor to who ultimately wins this war for supremacy. “God Save the Queen” began playing over the loud speakers as the HWA audience rose up to their feet, almost as if they were standing for their own national anthem. Before the man emerged from behind the curtain, chants of “Royalty” start up within the HWA faithful, their voices gaining momentum the longer the British anthem plays. Almost a minute passed before the former HWA Owner and President appeared, the fans cheering and clapping for the HWA’s last hope. Royalty stood before them, wearing his traditional maroon-and-gold singlet – a throwback to days long since passed when Ron was an active participant inside the ring. The man looked much older than fans remembered as he stood on the stage, looking out at the sold-out crowd as if he would be for the last time. In addition to his old wrestling gear, Ron had a pair of generic black knee pads, black elbow pads, and some white tape adorning his wrists. Royalty fidgeted nervously with his elbow pads, then his wrist tape, this whole experience feeling like a dream, or nightmare, that he couldn’t wake up from.

Trent Brown: An amazing response from this crowd for the man that started all of this over twenty years ago, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: Yeah, yeah… everyone loves Royalty, but I feel like I’d be remiss if I didn’t bring up the fact that the last time Ron was inside an HWA ring it was as an ally to Eric Rayne and the High Society.

Trent Brown: That was a long time ago, Keith; he’s flying HWA colors tonight!

Keith Kincaid: Guess we’ll find out in a few minutes Trent…

Ron slowly began to make his way down the ramp, his gaze going to the squared-circle before him; looking at it as if he was walking to the executioners block. Tentatively, Royalty made his way up the ring steps, slipping through the middle rope and pacing around the ring. Ron tested the ring ropes, making sure they were sturdy as his music cut off, the “Royalty” chants reaching near-deafening levels. The man seemed to barely notice the reaction from the crowd, almost as if his mind was elsewhere.

Keith Kincaid: Royalty looks shell-shocked right now, Trent.

Trent Brown: It’s got to be a very emotional moment for the man that built this industry up from the ground up, Keith.

The cheers for Royalty turned to jeers as members of the High Society begin to file out from the back, their normal stable music oddly silent. As they emerge from the curtain and walk onto the stage, the original High Society members seem to be carrying with them portrait frames with black shrouds over them. Mary Jane Fury handed her own to her husband, gave him a quick kiss on the cheek, and then remained standing atop the stage as the rest file onto the ramp, taking up their designated spots. Ron looked up at them as they form two columns on either side of the ramp, holding the frames up in front of them. On the left side, going from closest to farthest is: Brandon Kayros – Tony Gold – Ryan Maxem – Johnathon Keeper – Jared Sengir. On the right side, again going from closest to farthest is: Steven Fury – Abrianna – Corwin Havens – Scarlett Rayne-Sengir. Between Steven and Abrianna appears to be a spot left vacant for his wife, Mary Jane. Also rather strange (more so than the rest of this) is that both the HWA traitors, Ryan Maxem and Abrianna, do not have portraits in their hands.

Trent Brown: What on earth is the High Society doing now, Keith?

Keith Kincaid: I don’t know… but I feel like I’ve seen something like this before…

Without saying a word, Mary Jane walks over to Jared Sengir, grabbing the shroud and pulling it from the portrait as if she was doing some sort of game show. She tossed the cloth aside as we see a picture of the EWF’s Jason Corlett. The fans look around, some knowing who that is but others confused.

Trent Brown: I don’t really recognize that individual, should I know who that is?

Keith Kincaid: I’m sure someone out there knows that guy; I’ve never seen him before though.

The female Fury seemed displeased at the lack of crowd response as she pouted her lips, walked across the aisle to Scarlett Rayne Sengir, and pulled the shroud from her picture. Again, a lack of reaction as the portrait is none other than the EWF’s Darren “Khaos” Copeland.

Trent Brown: I’m not sure what the High Society are doing right now, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: I think these are former wrestlers, Trent… but I’m not sure why we’re getting the history lesson on them right now.

Mary Jane screamed something at the fans about “needing to educate themselves” as she stomped down the ramp, approaching Corwin Havens next. Grabbing the fabric once again, she pulled it off to reveal a picture of HWA Legend, Judge. Recognizing this individual, the fans “pop”… the HWA faithful starting up a “We Want Judge” chant.

Trent Brown: Well we all know that man, that’s the HWA’s very own… Judge!

Keith Kincaid: I’m still trying to figure out why they have pictures of all these wrestlers, Trent.

The female Fury simply shook her head and waved her finger, indicating that he’s “not here”. The cheers and chants turn to boos as she walked across the aisle to Johnathon Keeper. Reveling in her power over the audience, Mary Jane decided to take her time unveiling this next one, drawing even more jeers from the crowd. At long last, she pulled the black shroud from off the picture, revealing recently deceased HWA superstar, Hollywood D. An outpouring of support for the HWA Hall of Famer as the fans begin a “Rest In Peace” chant while the female Fury pretended to wipe a tear away from her eye.

Trent Brown: Obviously our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Hollywood D and the tragedy that befell those afflicted just a few weeks ago.

Keith Kincaid: Yeah, yeah… why does this all look so familiar, Trent?

Mary Jane began to move to the next portrait, only to come to the middle of the stage where both the HWA turncoats stood across from each other, neither holding anything in their hands. The female Fury looked across the way and nodded to Abrianna, before turning back to Ryan Maxem. Ryan smirked at Mary Jane as she kept her eyes locked on him, as if silently contemplating something. At that moment, Tony Gold leaned over and said something to Maxem, handing over the portrait that was in his hands to Ryan. Tony took the sling off his arm and begins rubbing his injured shoulder, clearly still suffering effects from his earlier match with Grimjack.

Keith Kincaid: Honestly can’t believe that Gold is still standing here, Trent. Grimjack had to have at least dislocated that shoulder of his.

The female Fury narrowed her eyes as Maxem shrugged his shoulders, saying something along the lines of “just being a team player”. Mary Jane smirked at this as she pulled off the cover of the next portrait, this one revealing a photo of the very man that held it, Ryan Maxem. The female Fury’s eyes floated up to meet the HWA traitor as “oohs” and “aahs” rose up from the crowd.

Trent Brown: Now I’m really confused, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: How nice, the High Society gave him a gift, Trent!

Ryan looked around in confusion as the High Society members all looked at him, as if they knew something he didn’t. Curiosity getting the better of him, Maxem turned the portrait around to see his very façade staring back at him. Ryan, perplexed by this recent development, turned to the end of the line to look over at Steven Fury. Before Maxem could pose the question on everyone’s mind, Johnathon Keeper snuck up behind him – Keeper suddenly grabbed Ryan, leapt into the air, and dropped him back-first onto his knees with a “Backstabber”!

Trent Brown: Oh my God! “Whiplash”! Keeper just hit the “Whiplash” on Maxem!

Keith Kincaid: What!? Why!?

The impact staggered Maxem to his feet as Tony Gold was there, waiting for him. Tony lifted him up onto his shoulders before shoving him off, bringing his knee up at the same time and driving it straight into the chin of Maxem with a “GTS”!

Trent Brown: And now the “PKO” from Tony Gold on Maxem, what the hell is this!?

Keith Kincaid: I have no idea, Trent… but at least his shoulder is feeling better…?

Ryan somehow remained on his feet, though he wobbled back and forth, the impact of those two moves leaving him dazed. Steven Fury moved in next, quickly lifting Maxem up onto his shoulders then slamming him down forcefully onto the ramp way with an “Attitude Adjustment”!

Trent Brown: “Dose of Reality” by Fury onto Maxem! This doesn’t make any sense!

Keith Kincaid: Fury with the exclamation point on this beat down, Trent!

The High Society members all looked down at Maxem, who laid at their feet, a broken and beaten man. For a moment, they all turned to Abrianna as she nervously glanced about, wondering if she was to be next. Instead of assaulting her, the members all moved back into their designated spots, Mary Jane grabbed Maxem’s portrait and placed it across his broken body. Laughing to herself, the female Fury took her place next to her husband as “Princes of the Universe” by Queen played over the loud speakers…

“Fixxxer” by Metallica replaced the High Society theme music as “The Sensation” Danny Starr emerged from behind the curtain, decked out in an over-priced three-piece charcoal suit, his tie a familiar crimson color. The fans stood up in surprise, their collective minds racing as they tried to figure out what was happening. It didn’t take long for the shock to wear off as Danny turned back to the curtain, tugging on a chain that was gripped in his hand as Syren stumbled forth, the silver chain attached to a collar around her neck.

Trent Brown: My God, it’s “The Sensation” Danny Starr! And he’s got Syren!

Keith Kincaid: Was he the person she saw in her locker room, Trent!?

They had at, least, afforded Syren the opportunity to dress as she was currently wearing her casual attire – a tight white undershirt that clung to her figure, accentuated by a red, white, and blue plaid button-down shirt, the long sleeves rolled up. Rather than her normal tights she wore into action, she now wore a pair of dark blue frayed jean shorts and a pair of brown cowgirl boots. Danny pulled the chain once again as Syren staggered forward, nearly falling. The fans booed as Starr looked from his captive, to the High Society gauntlet before him, to the crowd, to finally the ring… where a dumbfounded Ron Royalty stood in awe. With his free hand, Danny brought a microphone up to his lips as his music faded away, leaving just the chorus of hate from the audience.

Danny Starr: Surprised, Ron?

More boos from the fans as Ron walked over to the ring ropes, looking up the ramp at “The Sensation”. Starr turned away from Royalty, instead addressing the sold out Staples Center.

Danny Starr: Why are you people booing? Do you even know WHY you're booing? Do you people even know WHO the bad guy is here? If you were to say... “Eric Rayne”... you'd be right, but Eric Rayne is no longer a threat to the HWA... and if you were to say... “Danny Starr”... you'd be wrong. There's only one person who has always been a threat to the HWA...

Danny now turned back to the ring, staring directly at Ron, his finger in the air, pointing directly at him.

Danny Starr: And he's standing right there in the middle of the ring!

Trent Brown: What on earth is Starr talking about, Keith?

Keith Kincaid: Don’t ask me any questions right now, Trent… I’m still trying to figure out how all of this is even possible.

Starr began to walk down the ramp, pulling along Syren with him.

Danny Starr: That’s right, Ron Royalty! When I was mourning the death of my fiancé, it was Ron Royalty that sold the HWA to Eric Rayne. It was Ron Royalty that betrayed the HWA in 2006; and – coincidentally – it was Sett who voted “YES” to dismantle the HWA in a closed door meeting with Eric Rayne.

Danny stopped walking down the ramp, his path bringing him right before Abrianna. He turned to face her as she did her best to stand her ground, clearly terrified at his presence. Starr, however, simply smiled at her before handing the chain off to her, Syren still attached to the other end. With trembling hands, Abrianna accepted her “prize” as Syren scowled at the woman that now held her imprisoned. Danny looked back to the ring, focused on Ron Royalty once more.

Danny Starr: And then, he lied about it! And who was it that went and avenged the HWA against Eric Rayne? Who went and sacrificed his own security to get revenge on Eric Rayne on behalf of the HWA? Who shut down the GWA in spite of Eric Rayne? Who usurped control of the CTN from the friends of Eric Rayne? If you said “Danny Starr”, you'd be right!

Starr callously stepped over the fallen body of Maxem, as if he was nothing more than a piece of trash left in his path.

Danny Starr: And yet... in spite of me, the HWA stands against the man who did all of that... people like Erin Wallace and Kevin Conner; those who knew I stood against Eric Rayne now stand against ME! People I called friends like Tommy Romeo... and Evan Blane... now build a resistance against ME! People like Sett... and Ron Royalty... HWA legends trying to win back a company NOW after all of THESE YEARS! From ME!

Syren fought against her restraint, rushing forward and trying to assault her former friend from a lifetime ago. Instead, she found herself being pulled aggressively to the ground as Abrianna twisted the chain around her hand and yanked back on it violently.

Trent Brown: My God, Abrianna could’ve broken Syren’s neck there!

Syren grabbed at the back of her head as Starr nodded his approval before turning and walking over to Mary Jane Fury, flipping the shroud of her portrait over to reveal a picture of Eric Rayne. For a moment, Danny stared into the eyes of his former rival… that smug sneer on “The Final Degree’s” face seemingly mocking Starr.

Danny Starr: But it's too late. The time for HWA has ended. It ended the minute Sett lied... it ended the second Royalty sold his soul. It ended when that whore Erin Wallace decided to become an agent of fake news and when Syren decided to return to fight for this soulless company. And tonight... I've decided there are only two frames unfilled for the wall, in my hall of sensation...

At the mention of Syren’s name, Abrianna pulled on the chain again, forcefully pulling the HWA star to her feet, choking her in the process. Abrianna made her “pet” watch as Starr proceeded further down the path, stopping before Steven Fury.

Danny Starr: One... for Ron Royalty...

Danny ripped the shroud off the portrait as Steven turned towards the ring, showing Royalty his fate. Ron looked around the ring nervously as Starr moved across the ramp one last time, stopping before Brandon Kayros.

Danny Starr: And the other... for the HWA 3000!

Starr removed the cloth, the HWA logo present on the last portrait. Danny locked eyes with Royalty as his face twisted into a menacing grin.

Trent Brown: I don’t believe what we’re hearing, Keith… Danny Starr was behind this!? ALL of this!?

Keith Kincaid: I think I need to sit down, Trent.

Keith seemed to not realize that he was already sitting down as Danny approached the apron. Slowly, Starr took off his suit jacket, neatly folding it and offering it to Steven Fury. Next was the tie, as he undid the knot and allowed Mary Jane Fury the opportunity to slip it off over his head. He unbuttoned his vest next, handing it over to Brandon Kayros. Lastly, he opened his shirt, as Scarlett Rayne Sengir came from behind, untucking it from his pants and pulling it from off his body. The High Society members began to surround the ring as Ron Royalty backed away from the ropes, realizing he was trapped.

Trent Brown: I can’t believe this, Starr is High Society!?

Keith Kincaid: If you can’t beat them, join them?

Though not dressed for a fight, Danny didn’t seem to care as he pulled himself up onto the apron. He slipped through the ropes as Ron charged in, catching Starr with a series of closed fists to the head and face. And just like that, Wallace Cunningham called for the bell and the main event was underway!

Trent Brown: Royalty unleashing hell on Danny!

Keith Kincaid: If he’s to have any chance, Trent… Ron needs to end this one as quick as possible!

Royalty managed to land a few solid blows before Danny forcefully shoved him back. As Ron came back to continue his assault, Starr leapt up into the air, driving his knee directly into Royalty’s face with a “Jumping Knee Strike”!

Trent Brown: Starr with a devastating knee to Royalty’s face!

Keith Kincaid: And I think that’s all Starr even needed, honestly Trent.

Ron crumpled to the canvas, his eyes staring up at the lights as Danny checked his face, making sure he wasn’t bleeding. The boos were coming fast and furious as Starr strutted around the ring, feeling invincible. When he was confident that Royalty wasn’t getting back up anytime soon, Danny bounced off the nearby ropes, leapt into the air, and dropped his knee onto Ron’s throat with a patented “Knee Drop”!

Trent Brown: Starr doesn’t want to end it early, Keith; he wants to inflict as much pain as he possibly can on Royalty!

Ron flopped around the mat, clutching his throat, struggling to breathe. Danny remained on his knees, watching every seizure flow through Royalty’s body. Starr waited, again, until he was sure Ron was in no condition to fight back, before rising to his feet and approaching the former HWA President. Grabbing Royalty by the hair, he began to pull him to his feet once more before suddenly falling to the mat, slamming Ron down onto his knee with a “Single Knee Facebreaker”!

Keith Kincaid: I think Starr is committed to re-arranging Royalty’s face with those unrelenting knee strikes!

Ron laid face first onto the mat, blood beginning to dribble from his nose and mouth. Starr rose to his feet and looked out at his High Society teammates, all of them applauding his destruction of Royalty. Danny walked over to the side of the ring and shouted a command to Corwin as Havens nodded his head in understanding before he pulled up the ring curtain and began looking underneath the ring. Finding what he had been searching for, Corwin pulled forth the infamous croquet mallet, handing it to his High Society leader.

Trent Brown: This is ridiculous! Just end the match now!

Seeing the weapon in Starr’s hand, Wallace ran over to confront Danny but “The Sensation” cut the official’s protest short, instructing him that “this was now a No DQ match”.

Keith Kincaid: Looks like Starr is calling the shots, Trent. Kiss your pension goodbye!

Cunningham, begrudgingly, stepped aside as Danny stalked after Ron. At that moment, the crowd’s boos turned to cheers as Dan Sawyer, Grimjack, and Tristan Wolfe appeared at the top of the stage. Starr picked up on the change in reaction from the crowd as he glanced up at them, eyeing them down.

Keith Kincaid: Oh great, the “three amigos” are here.

Trent Brown: Danny may regret making this a No DQ match now, Keith.

Abrianna pulled Syren around the ring, keeping her a safe distance from the other HWA superstars as the other High Society members approached the front of the ring, creating a barrier between Danny and the HWA resistance. Sawyer began walking down the ramp, leading the way with his barbed wire baseball bat in hand. Seeing the weapon was enough to send Mary Jane, Scarlett, and Jared scurrying away, leaving Steven, Brandon, Johnathon, Tony, and Corwin as the only line of defense. Despite it being a 5-on-3, the HWA trio lunged into the fray, Dan swung wildly with his weapon but Steven managed to catch it before it struck him or any of his High Society teammates. Ripping the bat from his hands, Fury tossed it aside as he and Sawyer now began exchanging closed fists. Grimjack rushed forward and took Johnathon down with a “Flying Forearm” before turning to Tony, promising to “finish what he had started”. Tristan launched himself at Corwin, striking him with a “European Uppercut”. As Wolfe began to get to his feet, Brandon grabbed a hold of him. With ease, Kayros lifted Tristan up into the air before ramming him back-first into the ring post. Wolfe responded in kind with a series of “Headbutts” that dazed both men as Brandon staggered away while Tristan slumped to the ground.

Trent Brown: The HWA trying to fight for its very survival right now but I don’t think these three men will be enough, Keith!

Tony had managed to get Grimjack up on his shoulders, looking for a “GTS” but the wily submission expert managed to weasel his way out of Gold’s grip. Landing on his feet, Grimjack looked around to see he was now surrounded by Tony, Johnathon, and Corwin. Quickly, Grimjack scurried under the ring as the three tried to grab ahold of him. What they got, instead, was a face full of carbon dioxide from the fire extinguisher Grimjack was now spraying them down with. The three High Society members stumbled around, choking and blind, as Sawyer went crashing into the ring steps, courtesy of Steven Fury. Dan’s knee made direct contact with the steel first, sending him toppling over them à la Mick Foley. Landing hard, Sawyer looked over to see his baseball bat within reach. As Fury stalked after him, Dan inched his way towards his weapon before Jared Sengir quickly swooped in and picked it up.

Keith Kincaid: Looks like the tables have finally turned for Sawyer, Trent! He’s been chasing Jared around with that damn bat all night!

Sengir twirled the bat around as Dan looked up at him, in disgust. Sawyer made a move to grab Jared but he wasn’t quick enough as Steven cut him off, pulling the big man to his feet and holding his arms behind his back. Jared began taking practice swings like he was in a batter’s circle, attempting to intimidate Dan. Instead, all he got from Sawyer was a simple “do it”, a smile creeping across his lips. Sengir shrugged his shoulders and obliged the HWA star, slamming the bat directly into his face, the barb wire ripping at flesh.

Trent Brown: A brutal shot on Sawyer!

Blood began to flow freely from a series of gashes in Dan’s face but he, somehow, remained standing. Sawyer spit at Jared as Steven continued to hold his arms back, telling Sengir to “do it again”.

Keith Kincaid: Has Sawyer lost his mind!? What’s wrong with this guy!?

Perplexed, Jared did as he was instructed; bringing the bat down onto Dan’s head once more, further opening his wounds. Sawyer seemed to lose his balance for a second, before he started laughing manically. Once more, Dan yelled for Jared to hit him. Sengir looked at Steven, as if asking what he should do. Fury nodded his head, confirming his grip on Sawyer was firm. Jared shrugged his shoulders and went for a third shot, only this time he missed as Dan had managed to throw his body back, knocking heads with Steven and stunning the big man. This move was enough to free Sawyer from Fury’s grasp as he ducked the blow that had been meant for him. Sengir was unable to stop his momentum as he watched in horror while he unintentionally brought the bat down onto Steven’s skull! Fury collapsed to the ground as Jared looked down in shock at what he had just done.

Trent Brown: Sawyer avoids the third baseball shot and now Jared is in a world of trouble!

Terrified, Sengir looked over his shoulder, his eyes meeting the bloodshot eyes of Sawyer. Jared looked to run but only got a few strides away before he saw Tristan Wolfe standing before him, cutting off his exit. Wolfe held a dented steel chair in hand, one he had just used multiple times on the spine of Brandon Kayros, leaving the big man lying in a heap. Seeing the look in Tristan’s eyes, Jared momentarily forgot about the threat behind him as he turned to run, only to run right into Sawyer’s grasp. Dan caught Sengir and then used his momentum to plant him to the ground with a “Tour of the Islands”!

Trent Brown: “Lumberjack Slam” by Sawyer onto Sengir and the HWA Resistance is standing tall!

Sawyer wrenched his barbed wire baseball bat out of the hands of Jared as he stood up and looked into the ring. On the opposite side, Grimjack had emerged from underneath the ring, now wielding nun chucks. Starr stood in the middle, his eyes going from Sawyer to Grimjack. Tristan moved past Dan, his attention solely on his wife – who was still being dragged around the ring by Abrianna. Mary Jane and Scarlett Rayne Sengir stayed close, the three women trying to stay out of harm’s way. As Wolfe drew in closer, a pair of Stormcorp security guards hopped the barricade and rushed in, tackling him to the ground. At the same time, more mercenaries ran down the ramp, charging at Sawyer and Grimjack.

Trent Brown: Oh you’ve got to be kidding me, not these guys again!

Keith Kincaid: These guys are earning their paycheck tonight, Trent!

Sawyer swung at each soldier as they rushed in, able to take a few down before he was finally subdued to the ground. The ones that had gone after Grimjack were less hesitant to move in to apprehend him, mainly due to his irregular and unorthodox use of the nun chucks, the soldiers not able to anticipate his actions. Mary Jane attempted to provide a bit of an assist as she snuck up behind Grimjack, dropped to her knees, and slammed her closed fist into his balls. The female Fury began shaking her hand vehemently as Grimjack, un-phased by the blow, looked down and then back over at Mary Jane, indicating that he “always comes prepared”.

Keith Kincaid: Is Grimjack wearing a… cup!?

Trent Brown: Always be prepared, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: isn’t that a “scout’s motto”…?

The female Fury had still done her part, distracting Grimjack long enough for the Stormcorp officers to jump him and bring him to the ground. Syren watched helplessly as the soldiers took their boots to her husband while he did his best to cover up, protecting his ribs from their assault. Starr stood in the center of the ring, watching the madness unfold around him, a smile on his face. He patted the croquet mallet into his palm as Royalty forced himself up to his knees, looking Danny in the eyes. Starr raised the weapon above his head, preparing to drop it down onto Ron’s head when movement out of the corner of his eye stopped him once more. Looking back up the ramp way, the second wave of HWA reinforcements had now arrived as “TCO” Damien Michaels stood beside “Awesome D” Anderson and Brooklyn once again. Chants of “H…W…A…” rose up among the faithful once more.

Trent Brown: “TCO” to the rescue!

Royalty used this distraction to his advantage, hitting a “Low Blow” on Danny that forced “The Sensation” to keel over.

Keith Kincaid: Ouch… looks like Danny didn’t get that whole “be prepared” memo!

Ron cradled Starr and rolled him onto his back, looking for victory via the dreaded “Small Package” roll-up. It took a moment for Wallace to remember that this was an actual match, finally dropping to his knees and applying the count. One… kick-out! The fans let out a collective, disappointed sigh as Danny shoved Royalty off of him and crawled away, enraged that Ron had tried to pull a “fast one” on him. Starr directed his attention back outside the ring, watching as the new trio of HWA superstars descended upon him. Standing before them, however, was the recovering Tony Gold, Johnathon Keeper, and Corwin Havens. The three rubbed their eyes, still feeling the effects of the fire extinguisher attack by Grimjack, unaware of the trouble they were all in. Keeper was the first to spot the threat as he turned to see Brooklyn run and jump into the air, wrap his arms around Johnathon’s neck, and drive him face first into the outside padding with a “Jumping Complete Shot”!

Trent Brown: Brooklyn with a “Pathfinder” onto Johnathon!

Keith Kincaid: That poor guy can’t catch a break tonight, Trent; all he wanted to do was promote his new energy drink!

Tony was the next one to go for a ride as he stumbled into “Awesome D” Anderson, who wrapped his hand around his neck. In one motion, Gold was up in the air and then sent crashing down with a back-shattering “Chokeslam”!

Trent Brown: Anderson sending Gold on a one-way ride to hell with that Chokeslam!

Last was Corwin, who “TCO” delivered a stiff kick to the gut to. Bent over, Damien pulled Havens into his side, his eyes locking with Danny; clearly sending a message to “The Sensation”. Lifting Corwin up, Michaels fell back, driving Havens violently into the ramp with an “Impaler DDT”!

Trent Brown: “Aftermath”! “Aftermath”! Damien dropped Corwin right on his head with the “Aftermath” and Havens is busted open!

“TCO” sat next to his bleeding victim, his eyes having never lost his true target: Danny Starr. At that moment, more Stormcorp mercenaries emerged from the backstage area, rushing towards this new threat. “Awesome D” and Brooklyn turned to face this new menace as Damien stood up, glancing back over his shoulder at the soldiers. Nodding to Anderson, Michaels rushed the ring, sliding under the ropes as “Awesome D” and Brooklyn move to engage the mercenaries, attempting to by “TCO” as much time as they could. Danny pushed himself to his feet as Damien began to move in on Starr.

Trent Brown: Business just picked up, Keith! Danny is finally going to get what’s coming to him now!

Starr simply waved his finger at “TCO” as Michaels halted in his tracks, sensing something wasn’t right. Glancing down, Damien clued in on the tiny red dot on his chest, hovering just over his heart. “TCO” raised his head slowly, his eyes locking onto Danny once more. “The Sensation” smirked at his trapped prey, saying something to him along the lines of “you should’ve joined me when you had the chance”. Before Michaels could react, a bullet raced past him, glancing off his arm. Damien fell to the mat, the wound nothing more than a graze. Horrified screams rose up from the audience as “TCO” looked to the outside to see Brooklyn on the ground, clutching at the side of his neck. Blood flowed freely from the bullet lodged in his throat as the crimson liquid bubbled up out of his mouth. “Awesome D” tried to make his way to the injured HWA star but there were too many Stormcorp soldiers in his path.

Trent Brown: My God! What had just happened!?

Keith Kincaid: I have no idea but I think Brooklyn is seriously hurt, Trent!

Anderson swung at all of them at once, desperately fighting to save Brooklyn as “TCO” turned and stared at Starr once more. Danny was preoccupied; his gaze staring up at one of the VIP lounges within the Staples Center. Before he could ask himself “what had gone wrong”, the body of a Stormcorp soldier went crashing through the glass. The fans near the section scampered out of the way as Sett came to stand within the silhouette of the makeshift-window, staring down at Danny Starr from up-high.

Keith Kincaid: Wait… was that a sniper!?

Trent Brown: I feel like this is much bigger than we thought, Keith! We need some medical attention out here right…

Trent’s words were cut short as smoke canisters began landing at ringside as more Stormcorp soldiers moved in, led once more by their Leader. Those at ringside, and the first few rows of the audience, had to cover their mouth as panic overtook the Staples Center. Starr spun around the ring, watching as his world crumbled around him before his eyes finally fell on the charging Damien! Michaels tackled Danny to the mat, laying in on him with closed fists, punching at him with rights and lefts. Starr did his best to cover up as the announcers tried to call the action within the fog that now surrounded the ring.

Trent Brown: It’s hard… to see… anything…

Keith Kincaid: They don’t… pay me enough… for this…

The announcers continue to cough their way through the action as security detail began trying to usher the fans to safety. Up in the sky box, Sett was swarmed by Stormcorp soldiers as he valiantly fought them off, slamming one into a wall and sending another crashing through a coffee table. Eventually, the numbers prove to be too much as they wore him down, using their stun batons to drop the “Dark One” to his knees.

Trent Brown: I’ve never… seen anything… like this…

Keith Kincaid: This is… complete… insanity…

The overwhelming assault was too much as “Awesome D” fell to the ground, the Stormcorp soldiers repeatedly stomping on him. Protecting himself as best as he could, Anderson gazed though the obstruction and watched as the lights went out in Brooklyn’s eyes and he ceased moving all together. A woman security officer made her way to ringside, helping a few of the front row fans out of their seats, before turning and hopping over the barricade. With all the confusion due to the recent turn of events, she was able to sneak up upon Abrianna unhindered. Sensing a presence behind her, Abrianna turned only to have a foot “Superkicked” into her face! The Latino lady fell to the ground, disappearing into the haze, the chain falling from her hand. Cassandra Starr-Diamond pulled her disguise off, nodded at Syren, and then rushed forward, leaping onto Mary Jane Fury! Scarlett Rayne Sengir turned and faced Syren as the Texas native lowered her gaze, focusing on her target.

Trent Brown: Cassandra is… here to… help Syren… and the… HWA…!

Keith Kincaid: Are you… sure, Trent…? You know… who her… brother is… right…?

From his knees, Sett stared at the approaching soldier, watching as the mercenary pulled a knife from the sheath on his arm. The “Dark One”, electricity still coursing through his veins, knelt defiantly as the Stormcorp officer raised the blade into the air. Before the knife could find its mark, Michael Diamond rushed in, leapt into the air, and delivered a “Front Dropkick” to the side of the assaulting soldier’s face, sending him staggering and toppling through the window that Sett had previously made. Diamond kipped up to his feet and began attacking the other Stormcorp soldiers as Sett managed to fight his way back to his feet, lifting one of the mercenaries into the air around the throat, before twisting his neck until the “crack” could be heard.

In the ring, “TCO” was still laying waste to Danny, screaming at him and telling him that he would “pay for what he did to Cloud”! Starr’s face was already beginning to show signs of bruising, his right eye starting to blacken, blood rolling from a cut on his lip. Before Damien could do any further damage, Stormcorp soldiers were into the ring, dragging Michaels off of “The Sensation”. The Leader walked over to his boss, helping Starr up to his feet. Danny gave him a few instructions before reaching down, grabbing the croquet mallet once more. The soldiers lifted Damien up to his feet as Starr sized up Michaels.

Trent Brown: Oh come… on… enough is… enough…

Keith Kincaid: This is… a massacre… Trent…

“TCO” rebelliously spat in Danny’s direction, prompting Starr to slam the mallet into his stomach, the impact breaking a few ribs. Damien gasped for breath as “The Sensation” spun and teed off on “TCO”, slamming the mallet off the side of Michaels’ face. “TCO” dropped to the mat, practically unconscious as Starr kicked him from the ring. Turning back to Royalty, he watched as Ron used the ropes to begin to pull himself to his feet.

Trent Brown: I know… Ron was… expecting a… fight tonight… but this… is a… all-out… war…

Keith Kincaid: Are we… even still… live, Trent…?

Suddenly, “The Real F’N Deal” Evan Blane appeared, wearing his black gaiter mask so he could safely breathe through the smoke. Blane charged down the ramp, slamming into the soldiers that kept Anderson down, hitting all of them with a series of punches and kicks, allowing the big man to get to his feet. “Awesome D” began clearing house as Evan turned his attention to the ring. Danny had now pulled Royalty up vertically into the air, ready to finish off Ron and the HWA once and for all with his “Suplex Piledriver”.

Trent Brown: Danny looking… for the… “Obliteration” here…

Keith Kincaid: It’s been… a good… run, Trent…

Starr hesitated on dropping Royalty to the mat however, his eyes locking onto Blane, who was now standing on the ring apron. Danny decided to release his hold, carelessly dropping Ron to the side as Royalty landed awkwardly on his back. “The Sensation” curiously watched his former friend, waiting to see what his first move would be. The Stormcorp Leader didn’t take any chances, positioning himself and a few of his soldiers in the path of Evan. Blane seemed to weigh his options, looking from one mercenary to the next before his gaze fell back on Danny. As the tension began to rise, a large man ran down the stadium steps, jumped over the barricade, charged through the smoke and any Stormcorp soldiers in his way, and slid into the ring behind the unsuspecting Starr.

Trent Brown: Wait a… minute, isn’t that… Nate Hartman…!?

Keith Kincaid: Looks like… the HWA… is pulling… out all… the stops!

Blane’s reaction was enough to warn Danny that something wasn’t right as he turned around to see “The Phenomenal One” charging in. Starr ducked the “Clothesline” meant for him as Nate, instead, followed through, breaking his way through the chain of Stormcorp soldiers in the ring. Hartman began hitting them all with strong punches as Brandon Kayros, now recovered from those chair shots from Tristan, reached up and pulled Evan from the apron. The two men began brawling on the outside amidst the fog as Hartman cleared the ring of any Stormcorp presence. Turning to face his true target, Danny was ready as he grabbed Nate, lifted him up, spun him around, and slammed him down onto his back with a vicious “Spinebuster”!

Trent Brown: “Pride of… Hartford” on… Nate Hartman…!

Keith Kincaid: And you… know what… comes next…

Starr, as if he hadn’t missed a single beat from all his years away from the ring, grabbed Nate’s legs, turned him onto his belly, and sat down, locking in the “Boston Crab”!

Trent Brown: “Halls of… Sensation” locked… in on… Hartman and… my God… he’s breaking… him in… half!

Keith Kincaid: Many a… superstar has… tapped to… that submission… move, Trent…

Despite all of the chaos that ensued within the arena; the fans scrambling to get to safety, the security doing its best to keep the peace, the HWA superstars continuing to brawl with the High Society and Stormcorp, it all seemed to come to a halt at the cries of agony from inside the ring. Danny, with a distant look in his eye, pulled back with all his force, ignoring Nate’s pleas for mercy until the sickening “snap” could be heard – like a gunshot that rang out.

Trent Brown: Oh my… God I… think he… just broke… Nate’s spine…!

Keith Kincaid: Where is… the emergency… medical personnel…?

Despite Starr feeling Hartman’s spine break, he continued to keep the submission hold locked in, looking to do as much damage as possible. Erin Wallace slipped into the ring, charging at Danny and grabbing at him, trying to pull him off of Nate. Starr, annoyed by her interference, relinquished the hold on Nate as he turned to face his former ally against Eric Rayne. Erin, realizing the error she had made, held her hands up in defense. Outside the ring, Syren rushed towards Scarlett Rayne Sengir, leaping through the air and using the chain to wrap around her neck, dropping Eric’s sister to the ground with a chain-assisted “Sling Blade”!

Trent Brown: Syren with… the “Lasso”… on the… outside…!

Syren had heard the loud “crack” of Hartman’s back breaking as she turned her attention to inside the squared-circle, seeing Danny stalking after Erin. Sliding into the ring, Syren grabbed a hold of the chain and began lashing out, using her “leash” to strike Starr in the back! With a rage never been seen from her, Syren whipped “The Sensation” over and over again, forcing him to stumble around the ring from each blow, his flesh splitting each time the steel struck skin.

Keith Kincaid: I was… going to… make a… joke about… Syren in… the bedroom… but I… feel like… this isn’t… the time… or place… anymore, Trent…

Out of desperation, Danny managed to grab a hold of the edge of the chain before it connected once more with his back. With a jerk of the chain, Syren stumbled into Starr as he kicked her in the gut, doubling her over. Forcing her arms behind her back, Starr lifted Syren vertically up into the air, before falling to his knees, slamming Syren’s face first into the mat with a “Slapjack”!

Trent Brown: That looked… like a… variation of… his sister’s… “Starr Drop”…!

Danny knelt beside Syren, holding the chain tightly in his fingers as he began to wrap it around his hand. Syren’s head began to involuntarily lift as she felt the life being choked out of her. In that instant, Tristan Wolfe was back in the ring, diving onto Starr and forcing him away from his wife. The chain fell from Danny’s grasp as Tristan repeatedly slammed his fists into Starr’s face, further opening the cut on his lip! Never one to be happy about being forced to bleed, Danny shoved Wolfe off of him as Tristan rolled to the mat. Starr pushed himself up as Wolfe aggressively charged in again, this time stopped suddenly in his tracks when Danny lifted his foot and kicked Tristan right between the legs. The “Low Blow” staggered Wolfe as Danny wrapped his arm around him and lifted him up into the air. Starr kept Tristan hoisted high above him as he looked down at Syren, then at Nate. Before Syren could plead for him to stop, Danny dropped Tristan sadistically down onto the top of his head, forcing Wolfe right into Hartman’s damaged spine with the “Suplex Piledriver”!

Trent Brown: “Obliteration”! “Obliteration”! Starr just… hit the… “Obliteration” on… Tristan, dropping… him head… first onto… Nate Hartman!

Keith Kincaid: I think… Tristan is… really hurt… here, Trent…

The forceful impact had been enough that Tristan’s neck had bent in a precarious way, his body lying limp next to Hartman as Nate continued to howl out in pain. Syren, tears in her eyes, crawled to her husband, attempting to rouse him but to no avail. Danny forced himself to his feet as he looked around as the mist began to slowly dissipate around the ring. He appeared almost in a trance-like state as he surveyed the sold-out arena, now void of chairs as the fans continued to clamber towards the exits. Starr found the lifeless body of Brooklyn, the blood from his gunshot wound having long since stained the metallic grey of the steel ramp a dark red. Outside the ring, the HWA members continued to battle and brawl with the High Society and Stormcorp, neither person willing to give up. His eyes locked onto his sister, finding Cassandra Starr-Diamond viciously trading blows with Mary Jane Fury on the outside. Starr’s eyes seemed to tear up at the sight of seeing her in person after all these years. He had half a mind to go to her, to hold her once more, but his thoughts of such things were rudely interrupted when Erin stood before him and sprayed mace in his face! Danny swung blindly at Wallace, partially connecting with a punch/slap that knocked her back to the mat. Starr stumbled around the ring, clawing at his eyes.

Trent Brown: I feel like… I can finally… start to breathe… again, folks. The smoke is… finally giving way… and it’s an… absolute blood bath…

Keith Kincaid: Like I said… before Trent, we… need some sort… of emergency assistance… right now!

Ryan Maxem, somehow recovered, slithered into the ring as he trailed after Danny Starr, waiting for his moment to strike. Realizing he had been manipulated by his arch-rival, Maxem was seething, barely able to hold back from unleashing all hell on him at this moment. Danny managed to find his way over to a nearby turnbuckle, thankful to find that his button-up shirt had been placed on the top. Starr aggressively scrubbed his eyes with the fabric of his shirt as Ryan sized up Danny, waiting for him to turn around.

Trent Brown: I think Maxem… may’ve just jumped… back over to… the HWA side…!

Keith Kincaid: Like I said… all along, Trent… you can’t trust… that guy…

His moment finally upon him, Starr turned as Maxem charged forward, looking for a “Helluva Kick”. Ryan’s momentum was instantly cut short when Michael Diamond, out of nowhere, slid into the ring and leapt into the air, grabbing ahold of Maxem’s head and dropping him to the mat with an “RKO”!

Trent Brown: What the hell…!? “Diamond Cutter”! “Diamond Cutter”! Michael just hit… the “Diamond Cutter”… on Ryan Maxem! What is Michael… doing!?

Keith Kincaid: Yes! Yes! I knew it all along, Trent! I told you, Diamond is High Society!

Michael stared down at his former nemesis, before his eyes began to scan the damage around the ring. Ron Royalty had found himself over in the corner of the ring as Erin Wallace knelt next to him, tending to the former HWA President. Diamond saw his old friend, Nate Hartman, whimpering on the mat, reaching for his spine, and clearly unable to feel his legs. Syren lay over Tristan Wolfe, tears streaming down her cheeks as she tried in vain to wake her husband. Finally, “Your Hero” looked up to see “The Sensation” staring back at him. Pushing his way to his feet, Diamond stood like a statue as Danny, tentatively, took a step forward.

Trent Brown: I can’t believe this is happening! Diamond was with Danny the whole time!?

Keith Kincaid: Thick as thieves, those two!

Starr seemed like he was about to say something to Michael when Cassandra slid into the ring, Danny now perilously standing between the two of them. “The Sensation” swallowed hard and tried to force a smile as Diamond looked from his wife to his best friend. Danny seemed on the verge of trying to explain himself when Evan Blane found himself in the ring as well, the tree now forming a triangle around their former leader.

Trent Brown: This was not the FoS reunion I was hoping for, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: I don’t know, Trent… something seems off about all this…

Starr turned around the ring, his eyes going from Cassandra… to Evan… to Michael. Not that he appeared to be looking for an exit, but he was trapped; all routes of escape cut off. At this time, medical personnel finally began to emerge from the back, a few stopping to confirm what they had suspected of Brooklyn, before moving on to others who were needing assistance now. Cassandra had to practically pull Syren off of Tristan as the EMTs wrapped a medical collar around his neck and began to cart him off. Enraged, Syren lunged at Danny but Starr-Diamond instinctively went to protect her brother, grabbing ahold of the chain and gently pulling Syren back. Syren turned her fury to Cassandra as she tried to explain her actions, but was cut short by Mary Jane Fury getting into the ring and attacking Starr-Diamond from behind, leaping onto her back and locking in the “Asuka Lock”!

Trent Brown: Mary Jane is back in the ring and she has the “Fury-ocity” locked in on Cassandra!

Keith Kincaid: Looks like she’s trying to pay back Cassandra for making her tap earlier in the night!

Abrianna, too, was back up as she slid in and charged at Syren, looking to reclaim her “pet”. Evan Blane, however, cut in, lifting Abrianna up onto his shoulders, spinning her around, and planting her into the mat with a “Cross-Legged Samoan Driver”!

Trent Brown: “Real Deal Driver”! “Real Deal Driver”! Evan Blane just sent Abrianna packing with that “Real Deal Driver”!

Keith Kincaid: Does this guy have no morality!? He just attacked a woman!

Evan bounced back up to his feet as Michael and Danny exchanged glances with each other, neither having seen this side to Blane. Evan looked at the two and simply responded with a “what?” as Scarlett Rayne Sengir moved in next, slipping past the other males in the ring and tackling Syren, the two women spilling to the outside as a result of the impact. Diamond went to assist his wife with the annoying intrusion of the female Fury but Starr stepped in front of him, blocking him from his involvement. Before Michael could question Danny on what he was doing, Evan walked over to him, tapping him on the shoulder. Diamond turned, seeing the remaining High Society members now standing on the apron, staring at the two of them. Steven Fury stood on the middle of the apron, blood trickling down his face from when Jared had inadvertently struck him with the barbed-wire baseball bat. To Steven’s left stood a bloodied and, more than likely concussed, Corwin Havens… who was clearly dazed and needing to hold onto the ropes so he didn’t fall from the apron. Standing on the opposite side of Havens was Johnathon Keeper, who continued to try and blink away the damage from earlier in the night. On Fury’s right was Brandon Kayros, who was eying up Blane, eager to finish what they had started earlier. On the opposite side of Kayros was Jared Sengir, who appeared more interested in what was happening outside the ring as he anxiously watched his wife tussle with Syren. Noticeably absent on the apron was Tony Gold, who was in the process of “paying back” Grimjack from their match earlier, having tossed the submission specialist over the ring barricade and looking to punish him further within the confines of the ever emptying arena.

Trent Brown: This could be trouble for Michael and Evan, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: I mean, not only is it 5-on-2 Trent, but those “5” are High Society members. It’s debatable that the FoS at full strength could even handle a group like this.

Michael seemed to turn to see what Starr was going to do about this recent development, maybe hoping he’d “call off his dogs”. But Danny had enough problems of his own to worry about as, on the other side of the apron, the HWA superstars had now gathered. Dan Sawyer stood in the middle, his face a crimson mask, his barbed wire baseball bat still in hand. Sett stood to Sawyer’s left, cracking his knuckles. “Awesome D” Anderson stood to Dan’s right, glaring a hole through Starr. Danny anxiously looked around for reinforcements, only to see his Stormcorp soldiers laying strewn out across the ringside area.

Trent Brown: Doesn’t look much better for Danny either, Keith.

Keith Kincaid: He’s got his own 3-on-1 situation to worry about. One way or another, I think we’re about to witness the end of the FoS here, Trent!

Steven Fury issued his command as the group simultaneously stepped into the ring, everyone except Jared, who was still preoccupied with ensuring that his wife was “holding her own” against Syren. Fury turned to confront Sengir about his “failure to follow orders” when Corwin foolishly charged forward. Evan stepped in front to intercept, catching Havens and using his own momentum against him as he lifted him up and launched him into the air. Corwin leap-frogged over Blane, only to end up in harm’s way as Diamond caught him on the way down with a “RKO”!

Trent Brown: “Diamond Cutter” from Diamond and a great show of teamwork there from Blane and Michael and now it’s down to 4-on-2!

Fury growled at this inconvenience as he had hoped to attack the duo all at once. Having lost control of the advantage, Brandon and Johnathon charged in next as Kayros went after Evan, exchanging blows with Blane. Brandon quickly gained the advantage as he was the bigger/larger athlete, beating down Evan to his knees. Seeing Blane in trouble, Diamond managed to break free of his scuffle with Keeper, running to assist his teammate. Leaping off Evan’s back, Michael drove his feet into the chest of a Kayros, delivering a “Shotgun Dropkick” to Brandon that sent him back against the nearest turnbuckle. Diamond kipped back up to his feet only to have Steven wrap his hand around his throat. Fury pulled Michael in close to his face promising to pay him back for the “loss” he had suffered earlier in the night. Before Steven could lift Diamond into the air, and exact his revenge, Evan was there to assist as he launched a series of forearms into Fury’s face. This helped Michael break free of Steven’s grip as he stumbled backwards, the two men finding themselves stuck in their own triangle of doom; surrounded by Steven Fury, Brandon Kayros, and Johnathon Keeper.

Keith Kincaid: I would not want to be those two right now, Trent.

On the outside, Syren continued to scrum with Scarlett Rayne Sengir, their encounter becoming nothing short of a brawl at this point. Scarlett managed to rake the eyes of Syren, giving her a bit of an advantage as she grabbed a hold of the steel chain. Pulling on the chain, she was able to send Syren careening off a nearby ring post. At the last second, Syren had managed to get her hands up to avoid a full-on collision but she was dazed, none-the-less. Rayne Sengir smiled mischievously as she looped the chain around the turnbuckle, pressing her foot against it to brace herself and pulling on it with all her might as Syren, again, found herself clawing at the collar around her neck.

Trent Brown: Scarlett is going to choke the life out of her!

Dan Sawyer stepped into the ring first, glaring at “The Sensation”. Sawyer seemed to say something to the effects of “how could you” as Starr attempted to reason with Dan, offering his hand as if to allow him to join the High Society. Sawyer seemed to be legitimately weighing the option as he glanced from Danny’s extended hand to the baseball bat in his own. “Awesome D” Anderson had seen enough at this point as he stepped over the top rope and rushed in to hit Danny. The two exchanged blows until Anderson lifted his knee up, catching Starr in the gut. “Awesome D” proceed to shove Danny’s head between his legs, looking for the “Batista Bomb”, but Starr managed to escape his grip and crawl between the big man’s legs. However, in doing so, he now found himself at the feet of Sett. Danny timidly looked up at the “Dark One” as Sett glared back down at him.

Keith Kincaid: Talk about being between a rock and a hard place, Trent.

Trent Brown: Starr deserves every bit of ass kicking those three can dish out!

Cassandra struggled against Mary Jane as the female Fury continued to tried and choke the life out of her. Starr-Diamond somehow managed to roll onto her knees, but Mary Jane kept the submission hold locked in tight. Cassandra pushed herself to her feet, carrying the full weight of the female Fury on her back. Her breath coming in short gasps now, Starr-Diamond looked outside the ring to see Scarlett Rayne Sengir’s ongoing torture of Syren. Slowly, Cassandra walked over to the nearest turnbuckle, somehow managing to climb it despite the fact that Mary Jane practically had one of her arms trapped behind her back.

Keith Kincaid: What on earth is Cassandra Starr-Diamond thinking now, Trent?

Trent Brown: I have no idea, but I don’t see any of this ending well.

Cassandra, near the verge of passing out, pulled herself to the top turnbuckle as she stared out at Scarlett on the outside. Throwing caution to the wind, Starr-Diamond flipped off and went crashing down onto Rayne Sengir, connecting on a “Swanton Bomb” with Mary Jane Fury still wrapped around her back!

Trent Brown: Oh my God! Cassandra just sacrificing herself and taking out Scarlett with that “Falling Starr” from the top rope!

Keith Kincaid: Sacrificing herself? She practically used Mary Jane as a battering ram, Trent!

The impact was enough to knock Scarlett out and break the submission hold that the female Fury had previously locked in. Cassandra rolled off to the side, sucking in air as Syren, too, finally was able to catch her breath… thanks to the timely intervention by Starr-Diamond.

Back in the ring, Fury had finally gotten Jared to pay attention as he yelled at Sengir to “get involved”. Jared did as he was told; jumping up onto the top rope and leaping off, flying through the air and looking for a “Phenomenal Forearm” onto Michael Diamond. However, at the last second, Evan Blane rushed in, pushing Diamond out of the way and taking the hit for him!

Trent Brown: “Final Shot”! “Final Shot”! Jared hits the “Final Shot” on Evan Blane!

Keith Kincaid: What an idiot! Why would he push Michael out of the way!?

Sengir popped up to his feet, all smiles and happy he had “finally done something right”. His reward was a face-full of barbed wire as Sawyer brought the bat smashing down onto his head, the impact enough that the bat seemed to get stuck in his skull! Dan relinquished his hold on the weapon as a bloodied-Jared staggered around the ring, muttering incoherently until he collapsed.

Keith Kincaid: Sweet Jesus, Sawyer just embedded that bat into Jared’s skull, Trent!

Trent Brown: They don’t call him the “Deadly One” for nothing, Keith.

Having watched their comrade fall to the mat, the trio of Steven Fury, Brandon Kayros, and Johnathon Keeper turned and glared at Sawyer, who simply shrugged his shoulders in response.

Tony Gold stayed in pursuit of Grimjack, walking with a brisk pace as he made his way down one of the aisles of the arena. Grimjack looked like he had been brutally beaten, his face turning black and blue at the assault Gold had inflicted on him throughout the surrounding area. Grimjack would, every once and awhile, try to put obstacles in Tony’s path to slow him down, but to no avail. As Grimjack walked through this particular empty aisle, he attempted to delay Gold by putting down the seats as he walked past them. However, without any weight holding the seats down, they simply flipped back up, making Tony chuckle at Grimjack’s stupidity. Grabbing a fistful of Grimjack’s dreads, Tony began to lead his victim into the outdoor area of the arena.

Danny Starr rose to his feet, staring directly into the eyes of Sett. For a moment, there had been fear in “The Sensation’s” eyes, but that all seemed to pass when he shoved the “Dark One”. As if going back to his monologue from earlier in the evening, Starr began accusing Sett for having put this whole thing in motion. The “Dark One” simply shook his head in response, retorting with “you weren’t there” and “you don’t know how I hard I fought”. Danny followed up that verbal altercation with a slap to Sett, which resulted in the “Dark One” wrapping his hand around “The Sensation’s” throat!

Trent Brown: A very storied history between these two, Keith!

Keith Kincaid: A brutal rivalry between them for sure and it looks like Danny is about to be on the wrong side of history here, Trent!

Before Sett could finish the “Chokeslam” attempt, Brandon Kayros was there to intervene, grabbing the “Dark One” from behind and looking to continue what he started with his series of “Multiple German Suplexes” earlier in the night. Sett fought against it this time, muscling out of Brandon’s grip, spinning behind him, interlocking his hands on Kayros’ neck, and lifting him up and slamming him down onto his back with a “Full Nelson Slam”!

Trent Brown: Brandon looking to save Danny there but all he did was take one for the team!

Danny Starr crawled to safety as “Awesome D” Anderson and Steven Fury exchanged blows in the center of the ring. Dan Sawyer went after Johnathon Keeper, sending the “Sonic Rage” into the ropes. Keeper bounced off and found himself caught in Sawyer’s clutches as Dan began to make the turn for his “Tour of the Islands” signature. However, Johnathon managed to slip out of Sawyer’s clutches, lock Dan’s arms, and then spin around quickly, dropping Dan face first into the mat with the “Rolling Unprettier”!

Trent Brown: Oh no! Sawyer went for the “Lumberjack Slam” but Keeper countered into the “Cyclone”!

Keith Kincaid: Beautiful counter there, Trent… I can watch Johnathon’s finishing move over and over again!

The two behemoths in the ring, Anderson and Fury, now have each other around the throat, both having had the same idea to go for a “Chokeslam” type move but now drawing nothing more than a stalemate. Sett moved in to shift the balance to the HWA side, stepping in and wrapping his own hand around Steven’s throat, looking for a “Double Chokeslam” attempt with “Awesome D”. Just as it looked like the HWA was about to prevail, Keeper quickly made his presence known once again, attacking Anderson from behind by leaping up and dropping the big man onto his knees with a “Backstabber”!

Keith Kincaid: And now the “Whiplash” by Keeper and he has taken over this match!

Sett was distracted by the sudden loss of his support as Steven quickly took advantage, breaking the “Dark One’s” hold on his throat. Before Sett could react, Fury had him around the throat and up into the air, only Steven broke the “Dark One’s” fall by sticking his knee out, sending Sett crashing down hard with a “Chokeslam Backbreaker”!

Trent Brown: “Destructive Blast”! “Destructive Blast”! Fury just hit the “Destructive Blast” on Sett!

Keith Kincaid: I’m just as surprised as you are, Trent. I didn’t think anyone could do something like that to, Sett!

Having absorbed the full weight of Sett onto his knee, Steven hobbled to his feet, rubbing the leg to make sure it was still operational. Johnathon, having now taken out two of the HWA stars in a matter of seconds, hopped around the ring, shadow boxing and acting like he had just won the World Title. This ended up to be his undoing as he turned to see Diamond already in the air. Michael grabbed Keeper’s head and brought it crashing down to the mat with an “RKO”!

Trent Brown: “Diamond Cutter”! “Diamond Cutter”! Diamond just took out Johnathon with the “Diamond Cutter” and the action is face and furious now!

Keith Kincaid: Where on earth did he come from, Trent?

The ring began to get less and less crowded with all these moves happening so close in juncture with one another as Michael pushed his way to his feet, looking across the ring at his rival from earlier in the night. Diamond glanced over to see Erin Wallace still tending to Ron Royalty in one corner while Danny Starr collected himself in the other. It appeared that Steven and Michael were the last two standing.

Keith Kincaid: Woo-boy, looks like we’re about to get a rematch of earlier tonight, Trent!

Outside the arena, Tony Gold had now found his way out into the parking lot, dragging Grimjack along with him. Promising the submission specialist that he would “break every bone in his body”, Gold was distracted by the sound of tires screeching. An ambulance pulled into view, racing towards the arena. Tony laughed to himself, telling his victim that “maybe this was his ride”. Gold’s laughter was cut rather short when Grimjack managed to free himself from his grip and shove Tony into the way of the oncoming emergency vehicle. Grimjack fell to the ground as the ambulance slammed on its brakes, only not in time as the front fender collided with Gold’s hip, launching him down onto the pavement. Grimjack turned onto his back, looking over at the unconscious Tony, mumbling something about “it wasn’t he who the ambulance was here for”.

Keith Kincaid: Uh… did Grimjack just kill someone!?

Trent Brown: I’m sure Tony Gold is fine, Keith… I think…

Diamond stood across the goliath once more, taking in a deep breath before moving in to engage the big man once more. Michael went with a series of kicks to his leg, targeting the knee that Fury seemed to have aggravated when he hit his Signature Move on Sett. Steven responded by grabbing Diamond by the throat and throwing him into the corner, delivering stiff blows to his head and chest. Michael did his best to cover up but the sheer power of Fury was too much as Diamond slumped into the corner from the barrage. Pulling Michael from the corner, Fury brought him to his knees as he stood behind him, his hands on his head. Starr watched from his corner as Steven began twisting Diamond’s neck in a way that shouldn’t be.

Trent Brown: My God, he’s going to kill Diamond!

Keith Kincaid: And Danny isn’t going to do a thing to stop it!

Fury appeared to be waiting for the final word from Danny as Michael looked into Starr’s eyes. Before anything could happen, Sett suddenly sat up, his gaze going from “The Sensation” over to the public execution about to take place.

Trent Brown: Wait, Sett’s up! Sett’s back up!

Keith Kincaid: How!?

Danny tried to warn Steven but it was too late as the “Dark One” was to his feet once more. Annoyed, Fury released the hold on Michael and went to intercept Sett, only to get a stiff kick to the midsection. The “Dark One” positioned Fury between his legs before flipping him up and holding him high into the air, preparing to drop him with the “Sit-Out Last Ride Powerbomb”!

Trent Brown: Sett’s got Fury up for the “Journey”!

Keith Kincaid: That’s 325lbs of pure muscle Sett is lifting up!

Before Sett could send Fury on his “last ride”, Danny scurried over in a hurry, diving and drilling the “Dark One” in the back of his leg with the croquet mallet. Though the wound was glancing, it was enough for Sett to lose his balance as Steven slipped from off his grip. Landing in front of him, Fury bent down, hoisting the “Dark One” onto his shoulders, now displaying his own incredible strength!

Trent Brown: Starr with the save and now Fury has Sett up for the “Dose of Reality”!

Before Steven could launch Sett off his shoulders and hit the “Attitude Adjustment”, Diamond pushed himself up to his feet and leapt backwards, hitting a “Pele Kick” to Fury’s face that staggered the big man!

Trent Brown: “Overshadow”! “Overshadow”! Diamond hit the “Overshadow” on Fury!

Steven staggered backwards against the ropes as the force of the impact, and the weight of Sett on his shoulders, was enough to send both men toppling over the top and to the outside! For a moment, all seemed deathly quiet as Diamond and Starr were left in the ring. Michael glared over at his “brother” as Danny used the ropes to pull himself up. The tension was fierce as, unbeknownst to the two of them; Cassandra had managed to roll back into the ring. Diamond rose up to his knees, his eyes going to the croquet mallet still in Starr’s possession. Danny followed Michael’s gaze down to the weapon, before looking over at Ron Royalty. Seeing Starr focusing on him once more, Ron informs Erin to “help him up”. Wallace did as she was instructed as Royalty then turned to her and told her to leave the ring. Hesitantly, she did this as well, leaving just Danny, Michael, Cassandra, and Ron as the only superstars in the ring.

Keith Kincaid: I knew the FoS was going to screw us over somehow, Trent.

Trent Brown: Wait… “us”…? I thought you were cheering for High Society!?

Keith Kincaid: I’m cheering for anyone that’s against Danny Starr, come on Ron! Kick his ass!

Danny glanced back to Michael as Diamond simply told him to “do it”, referencing Starr to use the mallet on him and to put him out of his misery. “The Sensation” merely shook his head in response and, instead, tossed the weapon to Michael. Diamond confusingly looked down at the signature piece of Danny’s arsenal before Starr pointed to Ron and told Michael to “finish it”!

Keith Kincaid: I hate being right all the time, Trent.

Trent Brown: I don’t believe it for a second, there’s no way Diamond would turn his back on the HWA!

It was at this point, Michael became aware of Cassandra in the ring as she, somehow, managed to push herself to her feet. With tears welling in her eyes, Starr-Diamond slowly approached her brother as Danny looked at his sister quizzically. Not sure of his intentions, Cassandra pulled up short as her brother looked back at Diamond once more. Though no microphone was anywhere near the ring, the lack of the crowd noise made it audible to discern the words being shared.

Danny Starr: Do it, Michael! Finish Ron Royalty off! Finish the HWA off! This is OUR destiny!

Diamond let the words sink in, his eyes going to the croquet mallet before him. The FoS had transcended any and all wrestling federations, why should the HWA be any different? His loyalty had always been to Cassandra and Danny, the two of them were his family.

Danny Starr: Forget about the High Society, it’s over. We’re here now; you… me… Cassandra! We are FoS! Ron Royalty and the HWA is the enemy! Now be the “Hero” you were always meant to be and pick… it… up!

The last few words were said through clinched teeth as Starr-Diamond turned to her husband, seeing the conflict within him. She, too, was conflicted – unsure of which of these men she should go to in their time of need. Cassandra had no idea what had happened to Danny to make him fall so far; to make him wage war on an entire wrestling federation, to be capable of murder! Was she willing to overlook all of that because he was her brother?

Danny Starr: Damn it, Michael! You either trust me, or you don’t! You either love me, or you don’t! What has the HWA ever done for you!?

Michael looked from Danny to the practically vacant arena, the seats void of the fans. This whole time, he had thought that it was Eric Rayne behind all these atrocities that had befallen the HWA and its superstars. The deaths of Kevin Conner and Fudge, Diamond now knew who was responsible… and it was the man standing before him, demanding that he put the nail in the coffin of the HWA.

Danny Starr: You don’t know the things that I’ve sacrificed to make this all happen… neither of you do! We are so very close now, this is the end of the road; the final checkpoint… the final stand. We cross this together, like we’ve always done; like a family.

Royalty shifted uncomfortably in the corner, weighing his options. He could try and strike Starr from behind, maybe end it before Cassandra and Michael could react. As if Danny could read his mind, “The Sensation” turned his gaze to him, keeping him frozen in fear.

Danny Starr: They took everything from me! Royalty… Sett… they conspired against me! They used HER death against me!

Danny had half-a-mind to go over to Ron right now, to finish what he had started earlier in the night… but he hesitated; he knew what needed to be done. This was his one chance to make it end the way he wanted, all it took was for Diamond to do one last deed.

Danny Starr: I’ve done things… yes… but they were all necessary to get to this moment, can’t you see that!? This is fate, Michael… OUR fate; we were always meant to be the HWA’s undoing and now here we are, one shot away from accomplishing what the FoS was always meant to!

Michael rose to his feet, opting to kick the croquet mallet aside as Danny’s eyes went to the mat.

Michael Diamond: I won’t do it, Danny. This has to stop, right now.

Danny Starr: You won’t… do it?

Starr looked up, his gaze intensifying.

Danny Starr: I’ve never had to ask either of you twice for anything, which was what made US special; what made the FoS special. And now, after all these years, you would deny me this one request…?

Cassandra Starr-Diamond: Danny, I…

Danny turned to his sister, the anger flowing freely from him now.

Danny Starr: You have NO idea what I’ve sacrificed! And you two wouldn’t, would you!? Because you weren’t there when I needed you the most! You… left... me… ALONE!

Michael Diamond: This has gone too far, Danny…

Danny Starr: Has it!? I don’t think it’s gone far enough!

Starr suddenly grabbed Cassandra and pulled her into his body, preparing her for the “Suplex Piledriver”!

Trent Brown: Oh God no, he wouldn’t!

Keith Kincaid: The “Obliteration” on his own sister!?

Danny Starr: What’s it going to be, Diamond!? The HWA… or the FoS…?

Cassandra struggled against her brother’s hold, trying to break free but he was unrelenting. Michael glared at Starr, looking for his opening.

Michael Diamond: Danny, don’t do this…

Danny Starr: Me? I’m not doing any of this… you are, Michael! Now you end Royalty right now… or I…

Danny’s words caught in his throat as he saw Ron moving out of the corner of his eye. Whether or not Royalty meant to actually engaged Starr was a mystery as he backed off almost immediately when Danny turned his gaze upon him. But the distraction still served its purpose as Diamond rushed in, tangling with Starr as he tried to pull his wife free from his grasp!

Trent Brown: Oh my God, Danny Starr and Michael Diamond are turning on each other!

Keith Kincaid: I never thought I’d see the day, Trent.

The two tussled for a bit before Starr suddenly reared back, throwing a punch in Michael’s direction. Diamond managed to dodge the blow but his wife wasn’t as lucky as Danny ended up hitting Cassandra, knocking her to the ground.

Starr looked down at his fallen sibling in shock, before turning to face Michael only to be hit right between the eyes with a pair of diamond knuckles! Danny fell backwards, crashing hard onto the mat, his limbs outstretched, his eyes blinded by the lights. Diamond stood over his fallen friend a moment, before turning his attention to his fallen wife. From the corner, Ron stumbled over, dropping to his knees beside “The Sensation”.

Keith Kincaid: You know… with everything going on… I sort of forget that a match was going on, Trent.

Trent Brown: Ron has a chance to end it here, to guarantee the legacy of the HWA!

Royalty looked at Michael, unsure if he would try to stop him, before floating into the cover. Wallace Cunningham got down and slapped his hand against the mat. One… Two… Three! The official rang for the bell, forgetting that the timekeeper area had been previously cleared of all personnel.

Trent Brown: Yes! Yes! Royalty has done it! The HWA lives on!

Keith Kincaid: Never had any doubt, Trent.

Trent and Keith embraced in an atypical hug, overcome by the excitement of what they had just seen. Royalty slumped off Danny as, one by one; members of the HWA began to recover. Michael Diamond helped Cassandra Starr-Diamond to her feet as she wrapped her arms around her husband, sobbing into his shoulder. Sett climbed back in, going over to Royalty and helping him to his feet. The “Dark One” held Ron’s arm up in victory as Dan Sawyer slid in next, joining the group in the middle of the ring. Evan Blane had rolled back into the ring, his eyes going to the defeated Danny Starr and then to the croquet mallet. “Awesome D” Anderson checked on his friend “TCO” Damien Michaels, who was starting to come to, the two men watching as emergency personnel covered the body of Brooklyn. Syren went to the side of her husband, Tristan Wolfe, as the EMTs began to cart him out on a stretcher… Wolfe’s eyes beginning to flutter to life at the feel of his wife’s hand on his. A few steps ahead of the Wolfe family was Nate Hartman, who was also being carted away, the big man having to have been heavily sedated just in order for the doctors to do what they needed to do to help him.

Trent Brown: We thought this was going to be a war between the HWA and the High Society tonight, Keith… but I don’t think any of us actually anticipated an actual war!

Keith Kincaid: I’m not even sure if we’re still live or on air, Trent… but from what I’ve seen here tonight, I can honestly say I’ve never seen anything like it. And, quite honestly, I’m okay if I never do ever again for as long as I live.

Any type of celebration the HWA might have had is abruptly cut short as more Stormcorp soldiers begin filing in. The Leader has since recovered and is giving marching orders to his troops as the HWA superstars find themselves surrounded once more.

Trent Brown: Oh come on, now what!?

The Stormcorp Leader slid into the ring, demanding that all the “traitors” be taken away. Heavily outnumbered, the HWA stars all trade glances with each other, neither appearing to be willing to go down without a fight! At that moment, a voice cuts through the arena as Tommy Romeo re-emerges, walking with a noticeable limp, his face cut in multiple places where the glass from his windshield had shredded his skin.

Tommy Romeo: Hold on one damn moment!

All eyes drift up the stage to Tommy as he appears to be struggling just to stand on his own two feet.

Trent Brown: Tommy Romeo, what is he doing here!?

Keith Kincaid: I thought Ryan Maxem killed him?

Tommy holds up his hand, a small USB thumb drive in his hand.

Tommy Romeo: In my hand, I hold the proverbial “smoking gun”… the very evidence that Kevin Conner fought and died for. The very evidence that Erin Wallace entrusted to me! And you damn well better believe it is the very evidence that is going to bring all of your sons-of-bitches to justice!

Trent Brown: What on Earth is he talking about, Keith?

Keith Kincaid: I have no idea, Trent; I hope he didn’t get into Grimjack’s infamous brownies…

Tommy Romeo: So, without further ado… get ‘em boys!

Tommy pointed to the ring as, from all angles, SWAT and FBI officials stormed into the Staples Center. The officers began snatching up the Stormcorp mercenaries and High Society members alike as the HWA Superstars all stood, watching in awe. The Stormcorp Leader, realizing that this was his last change for vengeance, pulled the knife from his sheath, hoping to use the turmoil of this recent development to his advantage. His target in sight, the Leader rushed forward, stabbing at the back of Michael Diamond. Cassandra, however, had caught a glimmer of light off the blade and turned to see the would-be assailant. Starr-Diamond leapt in front of her husband as the mercenary brought the blade down. Just as the knife was about to break skin, the Leader lurched violently to the mat, Evan Blane having stepped in at the last second and knocked him over the head with a croquet mallet shot. Diamond and Cassandra stood in disbelief at what had just happened, turning to Evan who… again… simply returned their look, responding with a simple “what?” before turning his attention over to the mastermind in charge. The FBI officials pulled Danny Starr to his feet, tightening the pair of handcuffs around his wrists. Before any words could be exchanged, he was whisked out of the ring and forcefully brought up the ramp. For a moment, Danny managed to halt his progression at the top of the stage as he stopped long enough to look into Tommy Romeo’s eyes one last time, before disappearing behind the curtain.

Trent Brown: The HWA stood tall tonight against overwhelming adversity, Keith. We were on the very verge of extinction, our history and legacy about to be erased, but we never gave up and – in the end – we persevered. Never have I ever been more proud of the Superstars that put their lives on the line tonight.

Keith Kincaid: And never has a statement like that actually been so true, Trent! We got mercenaries showing up, shooting at our wrestlers and firing off smoke grenades into the audience. We got people being crippled at the hands of a psychopath!

Trent Brown: Still a lot of questions to be answered on all fronts for sure, Keith… but at the beginning of the night, we came into it with the question about whether or not the HWA would “survive”. And after tonight, after everything that we have just witnessed, we at least have the answer to that.

Keith Kincaid: I’d attempt to start up another “Yes” chant, Trent… but it appears that the crowd all left before the Main Event even concluded.

Trent Brown: Well, like true warriors battling to the bitter end, the HWA emerges victorious against the High Society and in this… our Final Stand… I just want to thank all of you who tuned in to witness a night that will, no doubt, go down in history! Thank you very much everybody and… for the last time… goodnight!