(Camera fades in on outside a cemetary. It is night, there are dark, hostile thunderclouds in the sky, there is lightning flashing and thunder sounding, and it is raining. Hard. The stuff is coming down in a sheet, and we can guess that the cameraman would rather he was anywhere but here. Still, he has no choice. He moves bravely on and opens the gates, and moves inside. We see several dark, dead trees, and hundreds and hundreds of gravestones, stretching out into the distance, covered and surrounded by green foliage and grass and things like that. We see a few animals scurry away as the cameraman enters, clearly startled by this foreign presence in their home. No birds are in the sky, they are too smart for that. If they were they'd drop like stones in seconds. The cemetary is built on the side of a hill, and it slopes downwards on a spiralling track, on which the cameraman is standing, leading to a flat plain on the bottom where the greatest concentrations of gravestones are. Further up the trail, however, are several maosoleums, and on the top is the biggest of all. With nothing to do, the cameraman heads for shelter, the nearest maosoleum, keeping the camera rolling in the hope of spotting one of the people he's been sent to listen to. The camera is nearly at the maosoleum when there is a massive lightning flash, and we see, illuminated, right in front of us, a giant figure sitting on a gravestone. The cameraman cries out and jumps back in fright. He recovers after a few moments and then approaches the figure again. The man, it could only be a man, is nearly seven feet tall, and obviously muscular, his arms folded over his chest. We see little in the way of detail, however, because he is wearing a black monk's cloak, with the hood drawn up over his head. His cloak is soaked, and he must be cold, but he does not appear to care)

Man: And so it begins...

Voice: The beginning of the end of the beginning.

(Another voice, this one coming from above. The camera looks up and we see another figure sitting on top of the maosoleum, another man, but far smaller than the giant. This one is wearing a black leather trenchcoat, black jeans and a black T-Shirt, all soaking wet. Again he does not appear to care. We notice that a kendo stick is strapped to his back at a diagonal, and we see that he has very long white hair, that is being picked up and played with by the wind. On his face we see two tattoos, one a whirling deluge of tribal spikes that covers the right side of his face, the other a black blood drop beneath his left eye. His eyes are a strange, almost shining emerald green)

Man #2: You must be wondering who we are, Absolute Agony. You must be wondering where we've come from, and why you've been chosen to be our first victims. The truth is, we chose you. We asked for this match, because you would make a perfect example. And you WILL make a perfect example.

(The man effortlessly vaults off the maosoleum roof, and lands lithely on the ground. He takes a step back and leans against the rock of the building, allowing us to have both of the men in shot)

Man #1: I suppose introductions are in order. I am Edgecrusher.

Man #2: I, am Braak. And together, we are going to bring an end to you both. You know, it's strange that people have such a fascination with inflicting pain. People always say 'What's in a name?' The truth is, a hell of a lot is in a name. A team that calls itself 'Absolute' Agony, is just plain laughable. Why? Let me tell you why. Absolute is an ultimate, an extreme, you can't go beyond it, despite what people think. Piling adjectives on changes nothing. Absolute Zero, for example, is as cold as it is possible to get. Absolute Agony, however, is impossible. What do you two think you can do to us? I can't wait to find out. Do you REALLY think that THIS is capable of feeling 'absolute' agony? You fools. The flesh is weak, it breaks after a certain point. But the mind? That is where 'absolute' agony can be inflicted. Body and mind together. You two cannot possibly inflict absolute agony on us. You've failed before we even get in the ring. And then there's that other part of your name... agony...

(Braak looks over to Edgecrusher. The big man looks up at him and then down again. He does not turn to face the camera)

Edgecrusher: Agony... I've felt agony, and I know that nothing you can ever do me in that ring will compare to the agony I've felt in my life.

(With that, Edgecrusher turns to the camera, and we see what he is talking about. His left eye is simply... missing. In it's place there is a silver plate that covers his eye, reaches back to his ear and covers a little of his forehead and a good portion of his cheek. The plate appears to have been grafted on, so it is immovable. The thing is a strange design, curved so that it actually ENTERS Edgecrusher's eye socket, filling it up with metal, and we can almost imagine an eyeball having once been there, nestling in a cradle of silver)

Edgecrusher: THAT, was agony. You two think you have any idea what pain is? You don't have a god damn clue. I have felt it, I've inflicted it. I've watched men challenge me to an I Quit match and then beg for mercy as I suplex them again, and again, and again. I've wrapped a man up in barbed wire, then shoved him through the top of a hell in the cell cage. He, was in agony. You two don't have a clue what you are talking about. Not a clue.

(With that, Edgecrusher turns away and bows his head again. We see a little blond hair, and his other, clear blue eye, and his stern but not ugly features. Braak looks at the camera again, and we see in contrast how handsome Braak is. His skin is flawless, perfect, and his tattoos simply accentuate his looks. He smiles slightly)

Braak: Also, your name shows an unhealthy predilection for inflicting pain on people. Not that wanting to hurt people is in itself a bad thing, it's the way one goes about it that matters. You see, there is a difference between inflicting pain, and actually going out to do it. Me and Edgecrusher enjoy inflicting pain, but we do it AFTER we've done what we came to do. You two seem to have the unfortunate problem that you would rather hurt us than beat us. I hope you aren't so predictable that you actually say that we are 'Chosen to be hurt' or something equally lame. You see, your name tells us a lot. You have chosen a name that reflects your mental state. You want to hurt us. We want to beat you before we hurt you. And that's why we will. We are going into this match dedicated purely to the business of defeating you. And we will, because you obviously don't have that on your minds. Another problem you have is that you know nothing about us. Nothing, at all. You don't know our styles, our moves, how well we work together, anything, similarly, we don't know much about you. But we do know that we are a good team, who have worked together on various occasions. We'll make up our strategy on the day, like we always do. And we'll win, like we always do.

(Braak then turns and heads down into the maosoleum. Edgecrusher finally moves from his gravestone and follows, an ominous, cloaked shadow behind the enigmatic prophet. Their footsteps echo hollowly on the old stone steps, reverberating around the cramped stairwell)

Braak: It's strange how terrified, and how fascinated, people are by death. I can understand why people get fascinated by pain. It brings us closer to death, and, we hope, lets us understand that death is nothing to fear. But it doesn't work. No, to quench a fear of death you have to KNOW something, like I do. You have to see something, like I do. You have to do something, like we do. You see, Absolute Agony, we have no fear of pain. I, personally, defeated a man in a flaming tables match with shocking ease. He was in pain when I swanton bombed him through the table, he was terrified that he would never, ever recover, that he'd need surgery and skin grafts and all the rest of that bullshit. He was terrified when Edgecrusher powerbombed him through a table coated in drawing pins, he was scared at the sight of his own blood. But that was another federation. The point, fools, is that we are not afraid to get hurt. What are you two going to do when you realise that we can hurt you just as much as you can hurt us, and we don't care when you hurt us? And what are you going to do, my poor, poor victims, when The Chosen up the ante on YOU...?

(As Braak finishes this last question he steps down into a room. Edgecrusher enters moments later, and then we do, with the cameraman as our window. We see, in the torchlit room, a double coffin, lying on the ground. Braak motions to Edgecrusher and he goes to the coffin. He grabs it and then slowly muscles it up off the ground, slamming it against the wall so we can see it. Braak bows to the cameraman with a little smile and makes a sweeping motion with his hands. The camera approaches the coffin, and we see Edgecrusher standing, arms folded across his massive chest again, facing us. We see for the first time his fine muscle definition, and the massive tree trunks that we identify as being in the position of legs, covered in black trousers. The camera looks closer at the double coffins and we see on each is a name, written in golden writing, and below the names is a strip that crosses the coffins. Written on the strip is 'Absolute Agony', and the two names are the names of the team members. We hear Braak chuckling again)

Braak: You fools, you weak, pathetic fools. You have no idea what is going to happen to you. You just have NO idea.

(The camera whirls around to see Braak leaning against the wall, a tranquil, knowing smile on his face)

Edgecrusher: Absolute Agony, we are going to make you live up, and in, to your names. If you don't win this match, then you will be made an example of, nothing more than a bookmark that singled the beginning of the end for the tag team division in EWI. We are coming to beat you, and then, and THEN... WE DESTROY YOU!

(The camera whirls around to see Edgecrusher, this time, smiling. He chuckles, a dry, humourless sound)

Edgecrusher: Step Over The Edge, fools, and pray you survive the fall.

(Edgecrusher walks past the camera to Braak, and the two prepare to leave)

Braak: Come, Absolute Agony, and step through the Cemetary Gates, and see what lies on the other side. Temet nosre, victimas holocausti.

(The Chosen then turn and head up the steps, without looking back. The camera goes back to looking at the coffins, and focuses for a long, long time on the gold strip, bearing the name of the team the coffin was built for... Absolute Agony)

FADE OUT


(The camera fades in on Jonathan Davis sitting in the weight room in his St. Louis home. He his wearing a red karate outfit and a red headband. He seems to be waiting for someone.)

CM: Excuse me, Mr. Davis. Who are we waiting for?

JD: We are waiting for my karate instructor. We are about to start todays training session.

CM: Well, while we wait, would you like to comment on your upcoming match at Heatwave against the Tasmanian Tiger, Mr. Naughty Frog?

JD: (with rage in his eyes) DON'T YOU EVER CALL ME THAT AGAIN! I AM NO LONGER TO BE CALLED (shudders in digust) naughty frog. I will be from now on known as (turns around, revealing "The Red Dragon" written on the back of his outfit.) The Red Dragon, Jonathan Davis. Since I haven't had a match in so long, it has given me ample time to train with Master Lo-Chi-Minh. He has taught me the way of the dragon and to harness my strength to be a stronger wrestler. With the moves and techniques he has taught me, I should have no problem with this Tasmanian Tiger. He has taught me some devestating submission holds, as well. I will be more than ready, come Heatwave. (There is a knock at the door.) Now, you must leave. My master is here.

Fd2Blk


((Camera fades into a dark field somewhere on the outskirts of the city. Mist covers the ground, and wind blows quietly. Without the city lights, the moon give the only light. Hellspawn walks form the mist, his trenchcoat blowing in the wind. He grins as he approaches the camera.))

HS: A beautiful night, wouldn't you say?

Cameraman: Indeed it is, sir....

HS: A beautiful night, and a wondrous time for bloodshed.....

Cameraman: I'm not sure what you mean, sir..

HS: You are from the EWI, correct?

Cameraman: Yes, yes I am.

HS: Well then, you must be here to talk to me about my opponent....JT Holdiay, or the "Superstud" as he likes to be called....

Cameraman: That I am, sir....I would suggest you hurry too...The show goes on the air within the hour...

HS: Don't worry...By the time I finish what I have to say, we will have arrived..

Cameraman: The ride only takes a few minutes....A half hour, at the most..

HS: Ride? Who said anyhitng, about getting a ride....If you want to hear what I have to say, you'd better prepare for a long walk, my friend....Come...

Cameraman: If we run out of film, it's your fault....

HS: If you don't want to hear what I have to say, you take your "ride" and I'll get there myself..

*Hellspawn begins walking toward the city. The lights of the stadium are faint, but it is in sight. THe cameraman sighs, then turns, gets in his hatchback.*

((Fade out))


(The camera pans a brightly lit neon sign. The sign proclaims this establishment as "Chestendales Male Revue." The club's interior is shown:a standard bar with tables of overweight middle aged women sitting in groups, a stage with "male exotic dancers" gyrating, a table in the back is focused on, at the table is Chest Goodbody counting dollar bills)

CHEST- Twenty one, twenty two, twenty three...It's not easy living the Chest life...Krystal champagne, Bently's, supermodels, more money than God...very hard indeed. My physique is immaculate, I have yet to be defeated in the EWI (fairly) and now some joker named Veritas wants to stand on the threshold of greatness and stand face to face with almighty Chest. Well Mr. Veritas here is some truth for you brother...Don't even attempt to wrestle me, you aren't even in the same league, to save yourself and your career, I'll give you $100 to come down to my club and see what a real man looks like, maybe you can learn something.

(Chest walks over to a table of women at his club for a bachelorette party,he smiles at them and sits at their table)

CHEST- ladies, ladies, ladies i know exactly what you are thinking right now

WOMAN- Oh really, what's are we thinking?

CHEST- You are looking at me, at my fine clothes, my perfect body, my pearly white teeth, my $100 haircut and you are thinking that you might have died and went to heaven to see this angel...but fear not I am all man...You are also thinking that a man this good looking is totally out of your leagues... sure you aren't that attractive and might be a little overweight and the fabulous Chest Goodbody would never look at you twice, but ladies tonight I am going to make a dream come true...so who is the lucky lady going to be????

WOMAN- Oh my God...you didn't say that did you

WOMAN 2- Chest Goodbody, you are that crybaby wrestler with the lawyer right?

CHEST- I am the uncrowned King of the EWI!

WOMAN- Oh my god he's the guy who is trying to sue the EWI because he lost

CHEST-(Looking at watch) Oh look how time flies ladies, It's time for the gretest show on earth to thrill the crowd...here is my hotel key, i'll leave it right here on the table for your pleasure..now my fans await

(Chest climbs up on the stage and begins his stripping and posing routine, the group of women are shown leaving the club)


(Fade into a dark woodland setting. The camera is set at the base of a tree with darkness all around the area. The camera itself is jolted and raised to a higher vantage point and we see the figure of Dan Ryan come into focus in the darkness. From time to time we hear Ash's voice as the operator of the camera and the white trails of breath from Ryan's mouth can be seen as he breathes in the cold night air. In the distance on the horizon the first glimpses of sunrise can be seen.)

Ryan: You got it on?

Ash: Rollin, boss.

Ryan: Good. Well hello my fellow EWI wrestling fanatics...or shall I say SSN. For now anyway. You know there's nothing quite like the woods out here. I must say Salt Lake City has one thing and one thing only to offer. And that is the scene you're seeing around us right now, or rather the scene you will be seeing soon. Nothing like a nice sunrise in the distance to warm up a man's heart. (Ryan smirks and chuckles) Right Eddy?

(The shot pans over to see Eddy Love tied up and slumping against a tree unconscious)

Ryan: Oh come on, Ed. I figured you'd have at least one or two things to say to your many fans after the hellacious ass beating you took time and time again last week. Not even one word?

(Ryan uses his finger to make Love's lips move as he makes a mock voice)

"I'm Eddy Love. I'm the champion! I've wrestled all over the world! I've wrestled the best! MWC! CSWA! NAACP! AETNA!"

Ryan: Well, that's what I've heard Eddy. Why, I was wondering. What IS the entire history of wrestling from the time of Adam til now?

"I'm glad you asked, Dan. I would love to ramble for a while about my infinite knowledge of squared circles past, but you're just gonna have to refer to one of my former promos for that."

Ryan: Indeed we will, my friend. Indeed we will. But for now, let's focus on the present. I simply love the way things have turned out, don't you? I mean, I'm enjoying this immensely. I mean, the man with all the history and all of this supposed legendary status. And to think, I walk around and hear the names of Evan Aho, Eddy Love, Kevin Powers, The Hornet and God knows who else....and they are talked about with such reverence, as if they're s**t doesn't stink and they're the only undefeated men in the history of the sport. What battles they've been in! What promos they've cut! Oooooooh, my promo was longer than yours! Oooooh, but I did more of them! I hear all of this utter and complete nonsense and it inspires me to relieve myself of the last 5 lunches I've had. I would think, Eddy Love that if you might possibly be able to tear yourself away from your thesaurus for five minutes and get in the ring with someone without talking them into a coma, we may actually see some action worth the fans' money for once. Do you think that's possible??

"Well, I don't know Dan. I'll certainly try"

Ryan: You do that, Ed. And in the meantime, let me put a little message out to the rest of your SSN cohorts....

(Ryan comes closer and stares directly into the camera)

Ryan: If you think you've dealt with problems in the past, you haven't seen anything yet. We've only just begun. We've got your leader. Very soon, we'll have your belts....we'll have your pride...we'll have your spirits....and we'll have OUR company back. As for Eddy....if you want him....come and find him...if you can.....

(Ryan walks off as Ash drops the camera in the snow and it catches the final glimpse of Ryan and Ash driving off and goes fuzzy)


((The scene fades back into the arena door. Hellspawn walks from the trees lining the far end of the parking lot. The cameraman runs up to him.))

Cameraman: If you want this interview, make it quick.

HS: *Sighs* Patience, little one....

*Hellspawn is about to start, when ExE's limo arrives, almost runnig Hellspawn down as it pulls up. ExE and his manager step out, oblivious to the fact that Hellspawn is standing behind him. Hellspawn growls, pushin the cameraman out of the way. He jump up on the limo roof, glaring at ExE. He turns around, glaring right back.*

ExE: Kate, get in the car....

HS: What's the matter, ExE? Afraid of what you created?

*Hellspawn jumps off the car, taking ExE to the ground. He pummels him, as ExE tries furiously to fight back. Hellspawn picks ExE up, and smashes his head on the car hood. HE picks up ExE's briefcase, and hits him over the head with it, causing it to open, sending papers everywhere. Hellspawn, now also on the hood, body presses ExE, then slamming him down on the roof. Hellspawn drags ExE off the roof, and whips him towards the car door. He executes a drop-toe-hold, making ExE hit his head on the door handle. ExE grunts, and slumps to the ground, unconcious and bleeding. Hellspawn grins evilly, then opens the door, pulling out ExE's manager. He glares at her with an evil intent in his eyes. It would seem that Hellspawn is on the brink of insanity.*

HS: As for you.....

Kate: Me? What the hell did I do??

HS: You made me what I am....If not for you, ExE and I would be on the same page, and this whole incident could have been avoided....You made him drop me....It should be you who pays the price....

*Hellspawn turns away, about to leave.*

Kate: See, you don't have the guts to do anything to me....MA will be all over you in a second....It was true anyway....You are deadweight.....You're a worthless piece of garbage, Spawn! D'you hear me? Worthless!...

*Hellspawn whips around, grabbing Kate by the throat. He lifts her off the ground, visibly furious.*

HS: Now that...That was something you should not have said, oh no....

*Hellspawn pushes her ino the side of the car, causing her to half-sit. Hellspawn get right in her face, glaring evilly. WIth a grunt of effort, Kate thrusts a foot between Hellspawn's legs. He groans, turning away.*

HS: Another mistake....

*He turns back, still with evil intent in his eyes. Kate gasps, but then, as if from nowhere, Ruiner and Angelus attack Hellspawn from behind. Ruiner smacks Hellspawn across the back with a chair, causing him to drop Kate, who scrambles to the side of the car, away from the fray. Angelus pummels Hellspawn in the temple, while Ruiner checks on ExE's condition. Angelus takes the Hellspawn to the ground, stomps on him, then gravs the chair. As Hellspawn gets to his knees, Angelus cracks him on the head with the chair. Hellspawn goes to his hands and knees, but continues to rise to his feet. Again, Angelus hits him with the chair. Ruiner picks Hellspawn up, and performs a half-back body drop on him. On the way down, Angelus gives him a "little push". Hellspawn's chet lands on the roof of the car, and he bounces off, falling back to the ground. He struggles to get to his feet, while Angelus and Ruiner help ExE to his feet. ExE, now seriously pissed off, grabs the back of Hellspawn's head, pulling it back so he can face him.*

ExE: You wanna talk about mistakes, Jobspawn? You've made you're worst mistake yet....

*With that, ExE, smashes Hellspawn's face into the car window, shattering it. Hellspawn collapses. ExE helps Kate to her feet, and MA walks off, leaving Hellspawn in a puddle of blood.*

((Camera fades to black))


[The valet wonders why he still takes these jobs. These wrestlers... they're always so egotistical. But the company paid well, and money talks when you've got a wife and kid to feed. He pulls the stretch limo into the parking garage of the large arena in Salt Lake City. He pulls up to a security check and rolls down his window.]

Valet: It's Tribal Instinct.

Security Guard: Oh, you must be having a blast.

Valet: Yeah, I saw what happened to them back in Louis. No wonder they're pissed.

Security Guard: Well, sign here...

[The security guard holds out a clipboard, which the valet signs.]

Security Guard: ... and come on in. You have a good night.

Valet: Yeah, I'm workin' on it.

[The valet maneuvers the limosine into the garage, while the window rolls up. He pulls up near an entrance to the backstage area of the arena and stops the car. He exits and walks around to the back door. He reaches to open the door, but before his hand touches the handle, the door swings open, knocking him in the gut. He doubles over in pain as Trypp and Brandon Williams exit the limo. Brandon looks at the valet.]

BW: Attention soldier!

[The valet tries to stand up straight, but is still left breathless. Brandon looks at him and flicks a coin his way.]

BW: There ya go chief. Don't spend it all in one place.

[The valet watches Tribal Instinct stroll into the arena. The valet climbs back into the car and wonders even more why he takes these jobs.]

Valet: Jerks.


(The scene opens and we see tribulation walking into the arena. Little kids are cheering and waving and suddenly we see Nightshade running up behind him brandishing a steel pipe. In seconds Nightshade is attacking him and Tribulation is busted wide open. The fans go crazy as Nightshade sends him face first into the hood of a parked limo. Smiling Nightshade steps away and glares into the camera.)

Nightshade: Consider this my last match with a jobber in the Ewi! I want a shot at the television title! That's right Southern Fox I want a piece of you ! I'm sick of waiting patiently for a shot at an Ewi title. My time is now! If this punk can get up and make it to the ring later I'm going to finish what I started out here and put another check in my win column. Remember this Chad Dupree. I get another match like this and the body count will be much higher. I make good on all of my threats and trust me you don't want the full extent of my rage exposed. Innocent people will get hurt and you could be among them!


(11 February 2001 - An hour before showtime)

(CUEUP: 'E.I. by Nelly)

(Fade Into the back entrance of the arena in Salt Lake City as a limo pulls up and stops. EWI fans are all over the place screaming and shouting to see who the EWI superstar is. The limo driver steps out of the car as he approaches the door. Security is tight as the wild fans are curious. Doors opens and pops out 'SUPERSTUD' JT HOLIDAY wearing his usual top notch clothing. The blonde top and brown sides of his hair is all styled, and the silver arnet glasses on his face. People all of the sudden start to boo and some throw trash. Cool Breeze JT starts to walk into the building. He looks around all over and starts to talk trash to the fans. All of the sudden a camera pans over to his face as he has a few words)

'SuperStud' JT HOLIDAY: "SALT LAKE CITY BABY! Home of the WHITE-TRASH! I can't believe the EWI has the nerve to sign a SUPERSTAR like myself against somebody by the name of Hellspawn! I mean are you guys serious? The best lookin' guy 'round here can't be gettin' his hands dirty, unda-stand? But Hellspawn, whatever your name is, 'lemme tell 'ya 'bout how JT HOLIDAY DOES it around here. You walk that aisle, step into the squared circle, and find out why I am without a shadow of a doubt THEEEEEEEEEE most COLORFUL superstar here in the EWI. I'm so sick and tired of these BLACK 'n WHITE acts. Times change baby, SUPERSTUD is on his way to the top. Whether you love me, or hate me, LEARN TO LOVE ME, because I'm the best thing going today! SPAWN-BOY, get ready baby because I'm gonna beat 'ya like your daddy should have done years ago! Just remember one thing....Your just a little boy in a BIG MAN'S world, and in my world your just a squirrel lookin' for a NUT!"

(FADEOUT to a mad JT HOLIDAY has you see him enter the building)


[Scene changes to that of the wrestler's parking area. A black hummer has just pulled into a far spot, being late for the show. The driver's door swings open and out jumps a young man sporting a tight ponytail, baggy blue jeans, metallic red Oakley's. He rounds the large truck and opens up the back hatch, pulling out a duffel bag and a metal bat. As the man approaches the camera, it is easy to tell that it is the returned Inferno. He smiles, pausing to talk for the camera.]

IN: So, ExE. You think everyone should feel sorry for the unwanted kid growing up. Your mom died? Boo-hoo, le'mme shed a tear, aight? You think your tough shit 'cause you could beat smaller kids up? Well, we're all grown up now in the EWI. Your bigger than I am, so bring your shit. You say your a hardcore legend in progress? Kid, I've been there and done that. I've seen so much hardcore gold that you'll never see. You know why? 'Cause your a little punk. You want to call me a has been? That's cool. You've never even seen me wrestle...never been against a talent such as I. You, my friend, couldn't stand in the ring with someone like me. You don't even deserve to be in the same ring as some of the wrestler's in EWI. Zero, Jesse Falcon, Ash, Aho, Sampson....Any of them could out wrestle you any day of the week and so can I. So you bring what you got's, Ex, cause I'm on my A game. You want this to be a hardcore match? That's fine with me. If you can't hang there, it's cool too. I'm just as good in the ring where all rules apply. I can take you from post to post and still smile for the fans.

[Inferno pauses to glance off camera down towards a line of fans who have lined up backstage. A few flashes go off as he takes a moment to wave before turning back to the camera.]

IN: There's nothing left to talk about ExE. Your just another speed bump on my way back to the top, whereas you think I'm just another rung in the ladder to get to the top. Feh. You'll never get there, punk, 'cause you don't got what it takes. You don't have the heart, the intensity, or the integrity to be a champ. Heh.

[Inferno pauses, reaching up with a hand to brush back a stray lock of hair from his face.]

IN: 'Nuff said.

Fade Out



[The camera cuts to the interior of The Delta Center Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. As the camera pans around it picks up tens of thousands of screaming EWI fans waving their signs and sounding off with several chants for their favorite stars while Bionic Jive's "Ricochet" plays throughout the arena. The camera then cuts to Brett Sanders and Garrett MacFarland who are in the announcer's booth getting ready for tonight's action.]

BS: LADIES AND GENTLEMEN WELCOME! Welcome to Heatwave in Salt Lake City! We're on the third leg of the Skating on Black Ice Tour and tonight promises to be one interesting show! As always I'm Brett Sanders and the man to my right is Garrett MacFarland. How's it going Gary?

GM: Several things to think about as the night starts. Injuries are certain, careers will be crushed, and most important Eddy Love is BACK!

BS: It is true. Earlier today it was reported that Dan Ryan and The Inner Circle were forced to give up Eddy Love otherwise they would be punished ...

GM: Screw punishment they should be SHOT!

BS: You're gonna be in rare form tonight aren't you?

{Crazy Train' - Darkside starts up as Marcus Gottfried, along with Saul E. Dastardly and 187, make their way from behind the curtain and down towards the ring.}

GM: The boss is here tonight!

BS: I got a feeling he's not in a good mood judging by the look on his face.

GM: Now why would you say that? The actions of last week? Oh never ever. Now silence maggot while your the man who REALLY signs your paycheck speaks!

MG: (taking a microphone) I don't have that much to say so I'm gonna keep it short and sweet ...

{Huge cheer from the crowd.}

MG: Considering what went down last week in St. Louis only ONE good thing came out of it and, surprisingly, it came from that low-life scum Erik Zieba ...

{Another huge cheer.}

MG: Now, in the past, I have tried to trim down the roster because I felt there were certain dirtbags that didn't need to be in my SSN. Granted I can't drop Gemini or The Dark Carnival REALLY upsets me! But, what I can do is start writing people off tonight. THEREFORE everyone, except for the Main Event, is on notice tonight. If I feel that you aren't up to SSN standards you will get your pink slip ... TONIGHT!

BS v/o: WHAT?

GM v/o: Oh this is great! The rumors were true!

MG: Along with that I'm sure there are people who are wondering what matches I plan to have for Black Ice. Well later on I'm going to announce those very matches and I promise they will be well deserved! So enjoy tonights show and remember it's because of you idiot fans that we have such good ratings!

{Crazy Train' - Darkside starts up again as the trio make their way out of the ring under a chorus of boos.}

GM: Looks like they'll be some people in the unemployment line later tonight! That's what I'm talking about.

BS: This has to be a slap in the face towards Zieba cause there is no way he would allow that.

GM: Are you kidding? I think I remember a time when Zieba was on a firing spree.

BS: Now that we know what Gottfried has in store for people tonight let's see who is going to win the lottery and who is going to lose. Folks it's time to kick off Heatwave and what better way to do it then with a double tag team debut! Earlier in the show you heard Barrk and Edgecrusher of The Chosen and they've got that morbid feeling about them.

GM: I've seen some strange ones enter the league and I can easily say that The Chosen have made that list. They look determined as well as freaky, but Bane and Illusion of Absolute Agony aren't exactly slouches.

BS: We had a chance to hear from Absolute Agony earlier before the show started and this is what they had to say.

(Camera fades in in "ABSOLUTE AGONY's" Locker room. BANE and ILLUSION are going over final tactics for their first ever match in EWI. They see the camera, and turn to speak to the interviewer.)

ILLUSION:"Tonight we step into our futures. After years of traveling around Australia earning enough to barely stay alive, we have made it here, to the EWI. Here at HEATWAVE, we will prove our worth and make our presence felt here against THE CHOSEN."

(ILLUSION moves aside and lets BANE step up.)

BANE:"THE CHOSEN... We as much about you as you know about us, but that is our advantage. When we come together tonight we will bring our whole arsenal with us and we'll show you all who the hell we are. You better be ready to feel pain. Because thats the only thing you will feel for the rest of you lives!"

(Both start laughing and turn around and walk back to their lockers.)

BANE:"Now get the hell out of here, before we hurt you guys as a warm up!"

BS: Folks it's going to be a good opening match so let's get to the action!


Absolute Agony (Bane and Illusion) vs The Chosen (Braak and Edgecrusher)

Combined Weight 608lbs | Combined Weight 510lbs

Perth, Australia / Sydney, Australia | Parts Unknown

‘Can't Be Stopped' - DLT | 'Descent' - Fear Factory


Edgecrusher and Bane start it out. Bane lunges at Edgecrusher with a clothesline attempt, but Edgecrusher ducks it. He uses Bane's own momentum to spin him around and clocks him with a quick European uppercut. Bane reels back from the blow and Edgecrusher goes into the ropes. He bounces off with a flying forearm attack on Bane, knocking the Austrailia native to the mat. Bane quickly gets up and Edgecrusher flies towards him with a running clothesline! Bane falls hard to the mat and Edgecrusher covers. One! Two! Bane's partner, Illusion, breaks the count. Edgecrusher jumps up from the mat and confronts Illusion. He punches him and knocks him into the ropes and catches him in a belly-to-belly suplex as he bounces off.

BS: Edgecrusher is in there cleaning house by himself!

GM: Not for long, it seems! Look!

Edgecrusher turns away from Illusion with a grin, just in time to see Bane stand to his feet. Bane wraps a hand around Edgecrusher's throat and delivers a headbutt, followed by a sidewalk slam. Bane then quickly moves to his corner and tags in his opponent, who is still slightly feeling the effects of Edgecrusher's suplex. He runs in and lays the boots into Edgecrusher, who is still down from Bane's sidewalk slam. Illusion pulls Edgecrusher to his feet and kicks him in the gut. He follows the move up with a DDT. Illusion covers but Edgecrusher kicks out after two. Illusion pulls Edgecrusher up in disgust and whips him into the ropes. As Edgecrusher bounces off of the ropes, Illusion nails a spinebuster. He drops an elbow on Edgecrusher for good measure and goes to tag in his partner, Bane.

BS: And Edgecrusher's partner, Braak--

GM: Gesund heit.

BS: --hasn't seen action yet in this match!

Bane comes in and he and Illusion deliver a brutal double powerbomb on Edgecrusher. Illusion retreats to the ring apron to let Bane continue with the assault. He whips Edgecrusher into the ropes and nearly takes his head off with a big boot to the face. He pulls Edgecrusher up and whips him into the ropes. Bane goes into the opposing ropes and is his in the back of the head by Braak! He stumbles forward into the waiting arms of Edgecrusher, who uses every ounce of energy that he has to take Bane down with a released Northern Lights suplex!

BS: Both men are down now! Wait... Edgecrusher is stirring... He makes the pin! He makes the pin to Braak!

GM: This is Braaks first time seeing action... in the ring, that is. I'm not going to speculate about his personal life.

BS: Shut up, Gary.

Braak runs in and, just before he makes the tag to Illusion, pulls Bane away from the corner. He pulls Bane up and whips him into the ropes. Tilt-a-whir backbreaker! He drops a leg across the throat of Bane. He lets Bane get to his feet by his own power and then springboard off of the middle rope into a tornado DDT on Bane! Illusion runs in to help his partner, but is met with a hurricarana! Bane gets up and spins Braak around. He swings with a right hand, but Braak ducks it and spears Bane. Braak goes up top and delivers a swanton bomb!! Illusion comes after him, but Edgecrusher runs in and clothelines the hell out of Illusion, knocking him over the top ropes and to the floor below. Illusion begins to get to his feet, but Edgecrusher runs and springboards over the top rope with a cross-body block on Illusion. He then gets up and tosses Illusion into the steel steps before climbing back into the ring. Inside the ring, Braak grabs Bane and delivers a swinging Cobra Clutch bulldog. Edgecrusher grabs Bane and sets him up for a powerbomb as Braak ascends the turnbuckle. Edgecrusher picks Bane up into a stalled powerbomb and Braak jumps off of the top rope with a spear as Edgecrusher bombs Bane to the mat.

BS: That's the Cemetary Gates! That's The Chosen's finisher!

GM: Braak covers! One! Two! Three!

Winner: The Chosen


Edgecrusher and Braak go outside of the ring to where Illusion is beginning to stir. Edgecrusher grabs a chair from ringside and strikes it across Illusion's back. He then picks Illusion up and holds the chair in front of his face, allowing Braak to hit his trademark Sudden Impact superkick.

BS: The match is over! What the hell is going on!?

GM: I don't know, but I think I'm gonna like these Chosen fellas!

With Illusion down, Braak goes under the ring and pulls out a table, then slides it into the ring. He rolls in and sets it up, next to Bane, who is still out from receiving the Cemetary Gate earler. Edgecrusher pulls Bane up as Braak retrieves some sort of can from ringside. He begins to drench the table in the liquid that's in the can.

BS: What's that smell? Is that... lighter fluid?! Oh DEAR GOD!

GM: This is getting good! What a way to begin HEATwave!

Edgecrusher takes Bane to the corner and sets him up as Braak lights the table on fire!! Edgecrusher pulls Bane up and delivers Over the Edge through the burning table!!! The Chosen then exit the ring and pull out The Coffin from under the ring!

BS: What the hell!? This is gone too far! What now?!

GM: I guess they went to an Undertaker garage sale...

Braak opens The Coffin to reveal something far from plush and velvety: The inside of The Coffin is covered in drawing pins.

GM: Hmm... Guess not.

The Chosen lift the unconscious Illusion and throw him into the coffin!

BS: Dear lord! These guys are sadistic!

Then Edgecrusher rolls into the ring and pulls Bane away from the burning remnants of the table and throws him out of the ring, where Braak pushes him into the coffin and slams it shut, locking it. The Chosen then make their ways to the back of the arena, leaving the coffin at ringside.

BS: Good lord, fans! We've got to get some officials up here to get these guys out of that coffin!

GM: This is great!

{Before the camera cuts to a break, Commissioner Dupree can be seen rolling his eyes as someone babbles on. The camera pulls back to reveal Alan Tasker.}

AT: C'mon, Dupree, you just gotta do this for me!

CD: No, Tasker, I don't.

AT: But this isn't fair!

CD: Fair? Let's ask all the people you've attacked lately how FAIR that was. How about it?

AT: Aw, c'mon, we were just tryin' to make a name for ourselves. We've been gone a while!

CD: Tasker, I'm telling you ONE LAST TIME that I DO NOT want to hear it. By the way...

{Dupree's cell phone begins to ring. He pulls it out of his pocket and answers.}

CD: Hello? You...you do? Alright. {Looks at Tasker.} It's...for you.

AT: Me? {Accepts the cell phone from Dupree.} Hello?

{Thru the miracle of voyeurism, we hear the voice on the other end. The voice is electronically altered as the mystery man speaks.}

MM: Well hello...Tasker...

AT: Who's this?

MM: Names aren't important. All you need to know is that I'm watching you.

AT: Watching me? Why?

MM: Let's just say...I owe you...and I'll be repaying the debt very soon.

{The line goes dead. Tasker turns the phone off and hands it back to Dupree. Tasker then walks off as Dupree watches him leave with a somewhat bewildered look on his face.}

BS v/o: What was that about?

GM v/o: I don't know, but if it is against Commando then it HAS to be good.

BS v/o: Folks we've got to go to a break! Don't you dare go away!


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