Vertigo (12.09.17)

[FGA Office]

[FGA Office]

¡Uno!
¡Dos!
¡Tres!
¡Catorce!


Hello hello
(Hola)
I'm at a place called Vertigo
(Donde esta?)
It's everything I wish I didn't know
Except you give me something
I can feel, feel


Yea, yea, yea, yea, yea, yea, yea, yea
Yea, yea, yea, yea, yea, yea, yea, yea



Infinite Energy Center
Duluth, GA

“War Machine” by Kiss begins to play over the arena’s sound system and the live audience rise to their feets with their eyes drawn to the entranceway. Chris Madison slides through the curtain and steps out, soaking in the applause and cheers from the FGA faithful. Dressed in his ring gear with a FGA licensed shirt that reads, “Ready For War”, Madison shrugs his shoulders and clutches the FGA Pride Championship to his chest as he marches down to the ring. He reaches up, grabbing the middle rope and then hops onto the ring apron. Madison looks around the jam-packed arena and then steps into the ring and instantly signals for a microphone from the time keeper.

Kris Cruise: Looks like the Pride Champion has something on his mind.

Stephy Auger: Is this a good idea? Where’s Frankie, he usually handles the talking…

Chris moves to the ropes closest to the entranceway and stares for a second.

Chris Madison: Two weeks ago, right here on Vertigo, I was scheduled to compete in two separate matches: a tag team match with Fujiko Mine against SHOOTCAMP, and a Pride Championship match against Flashpoint’s Brian Stryker. To say I was excited and up for the challenge would be an understatement!

Madison pauses as a smirk grows on his face as the live audience begins chanting his name.

Mad-i-son! Mad-i-son! Mad-i-son!

Chris Madison: Wish I could be that enthusiastic right now. Owen Gonsalves took to social media and challenged me to a match; he got it in the form of a tag team match. I know the kid wanted to show all of you that he can stand in this ring and go toe to toe with me. Unfortunately, Kol decided to help himself to a closer look at things and strolled down that entranceway, pullin’ the attention of Fujiko, Ace, and Owen. It wasn’t until after I dropped him on his neck with the End Game and the official counted to three that I realized what was happenin’. Owen, this is NJFC all over again. Kol, Shimada, it doesn’t matter… I owe you a one on one, and once I attend to other business I plan on givin’ you that match!

Kris Cruise: An honorable gesture from our Pride Champion!

Stephy Auger: Honorable, shmonorable… He should move passed it and start worrying about his upcoming title match Final Frontier.

Madison shook his head as he looked out at the crowd, visibly disgusted as he talked about the previous Vertigo.

Chris Madison: I wish that was the only issue I had with the last edition of Vertigo. Later on in the night I was supposed to defend this championship…

Madison hoists the Pride Championship into the air before returning it to his shoulder.

Chris Madison: Brian Stryker earned a shot at the Pride Championship. He successfully defended the 15 Championship four times, allowin’ him to cash in the championship belt for a Pride Championship match. And now, that guaranteed opportunity was ripped away from him. When I first chased this belt, I got on Molly Reid’s case because title defenses were few and far between. After losing to Savannah Taylor, I rode her about the tactics she used. Now here I stand with a pathetic title defense under my belt, on a technicality, because other people had to get themselves involved in business that wasn’t there’s. I’d be a hypocrite if I just turned my back to how everythin’ played out. As far as I’m concerned, Brian, you still have a Pride Championship match comin’ your way! Once I’m through with Final Frontier, that title match is yours; even if it means travelin’ over to Flashpoint and riskin’ the same treatment you were given here!

Brandon McDonald: Whoa whoa whoa…

The crowd gives a mixed reaction as the voice of Vertigo’s general manager rings throughout the arena. A few seconds later, the man in question emerges from the back, a microphone in his hands and a steely glare in his eyes.

Brandon McDonald: Now hold on, Chris. There is something I need for you to understand about what happened last Vertigo. That being, I offered Brian Stryker the chance to be on the main stage. I offered him a chance to be here, and not at Flashpoint where he is being, quite frankly, wasted.

Brandon pauses for a moment.

Brandon McDonald: He turned me down. He turned US down. He had a chance to be here, and get his contractual match for your Pride championship...but he insulted all of us when he rejected my offer. Me? I’m reasonable. I let it go. He has to do what he thinks is best for him, even when it really isn’t. Julian and Serpent’s Touch, however? They seemed to take exception to Brian’s insults, and they took matters into their own hands.

Kris Cruise: Are you serious?! Is Brandon McDonald claiming Julian and Serpent’s touch didn’t act on HIS direction?!

Stephy Auger: OF COURSE he is, Cruise! Brandon had nothing to do with that attack! He’d be foolish to let Brian compete after that attack, and we’d never hear the end of it from Hadley!

Brandon McDonald: So after I found out about their attack, I got there as soon as possible. And it was clear Brian was in no condition to compete. So I did what was best for all parties and awarded you the victory via forfeit.

Chris Madison: Brandon, I’ve been around this business for seventeen long years, if you think I’m goin’ to buy that line of garbage, you’re a damn fool!

The lack of hesitation in Madison to call out the GM garners a loud roar from the audience.

Chris Madison: Let’s get one thing straight, there is no us. For whatever reason, you didn’t have the confidence that I would successfully defend this championship against Stryker. So you offered him the world to try and save your own ass and keep the Pride Championship here on Vertigo. He turned you down and suddenly Julian Tijerina and Serpent’s Touch are stickin’ their noses in other people’s business. If you truly had nothin’ to do with it, you’d sanction another match between Stryker and I; give him what he earned!

Before Brandon can get a chance to respond, “Sirens” by Elephante rings out, and the crowd cheers loudly for the number one contender to the Pride championship. Fujiko appears not near the GM, but out in the crowd, holding a microphone. Her hair is up in a messy bun as she waits for the music to fade. With a tilted head, she speaks.

Fujiko Mine: Sorry to interrupt boys, but I just wanted to take a moment to agree with our Pride champion. I’m offended you think that Chris Madison would be unable to successfully defend the Pride championship. Furthermore, in the event that he had lost, you would’ve had me to get the championship back. You had all sorts of “insurance policies” at your disposal. You didn’t need him attacked before the match. Brian Stryker has earned that Pride title match, and I think that he should get it.

The crowd cheers loudly.

Fujiko Mine: That said...don’t forget who has a dance with you at Final Frontier for that Pride championship. So maybe, just maybe…

Fujiko smirks and the crowd buzzes, catching onto her meaning.

Fujiko Mine: ...you won’t be the one going to Flashpoint to defend that Pride championship. Maybe I will be. Maybe Fujiko Mine will be a two time Pride champion after Final Frontier, and she’ll have the honor of righting this wrong.

Fujiko places the grip of the microphone against her chin, offering the scenario to Madison in the ring, and Brandon McDonald, on the stage. The crowd is split between Fujiko and Chris, and begin dueling chants.

Let’s go, Fujiko!

Mad-i-son!

Let’s go, Fujiko!

Mad-i-son!

Let’s go, Fujiko!

Mad-i-son!

Let’s go, Fujiko!

Mad-i-son!

Brandon McDonald: First of all, I don’t know who the two of you think you’re talking to that you can just insinuate that I had a hand in what happened to Brian Stryker. Secondly, neither of you are in any position to just go ahead and make that title match. Brian Stryker had his opportunity; I will not have any of my talent going to Flashpoint to defend the Pride Championship.

Those dueling chants from the audience transition to unanimous boos, drawing the ire of the Vertigo GM.

Chris Madison: Trust me Fujiko, you haven’t been forgotten. From the moment you made your intentions of challengin’ me for this belt clear, I have been zoned in on you. There may have been a few pit stops along the way. It may not have been to obvious because we’re not tryin’ to rip each other’s throats out week after week; but in no way are you bein’ overlooked. Since you’ve been back there hasn’t been much that could slow you down. I respect what you bring to the table and your desire, much like mine, to elevate this championship; but, I’m not about to just roll over and hand it over to you. After losin’ this belt to Savannah Taylor, I chose to keep pushin’ the fight, not to run and hide with my tail tucked between my legs, because I’ve got too much pride in myself and what this championship represents. We’re goin’ to go to war over the Pride Championship at Final Frontier and I promise it’s goin’ to take every last ounce of fight that you have in you if you’re goin’ to even threaten to take this strap out of my hands.

Fujiko turns her attention to Brandon for a moment, then rolls her eyes at his comment. She then returns her attention to her primary target.

Fujiko Mine: Oh, well...if that’s what it’s going to take? Then you can rest assured that that’s what I’ll bring. You’re getting everything I’ve got, because I don’t know how to fight any other way. You may feel like you’re untouchable, Chris...but you’re going to find out how badly I want that championship back in my hands. I don’t expect you to roll over. I don’t even WANT you to. I want to watch you desperately trying to cling to it, then watch me rip it from your hands and TAKE it from you.

Chris Madison: Careful, that kind of false confidence can be a killer!

Madison drops the mic down in the center of the ring, stands with his abdomen pressed up against the ropes facing his soon-to-be challenger, and hoists the Pride Championship valiantly above his head as the feed cuts.

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

Kol is seen walking the halls of the arena, others not bothering to even acknowledge him, which brings a smile to his face. A smile he has until he’s approached by Jessie Pederson, who’s clearly looking for a few words.

Jessie Pederson: Kol!

Kol rolls his eyes as she raises the mic up and turns to the cameraman following her.

Jessie Pederson: I’m here with one of-

Kol: What are you doing?

Jessie stops and turns towards Kol.

Jessie Pederson: Having an interview with you.

Kol: And did I give you permission to interview me?

Jessie Pederson: Uh...no?

Kol: Then why in the hell do you think it’s alright to just walk up and start an interview with me? Jessie, you’re better than this. Don’t let some of the people on the roster make you think it’s just okay to walk up and start up an interview.

Kol fixes his black jacket as he stares at Jessie, who seems to be getting red from embarrassment.

Kol: I will be denying you an interview tonight. Try again next time we’re on the same show. But tonight, I have important business to take care of in the ring with Jackson Magnum and SHOOTCAMP.

Jessie Pederson: Can I at least ask you why you actually wanted this meeting?

The New Yorker flashes a small smirk before he shrugs.

Kol: Guess you’ll have to wait and see, huh?

The Frontier Lions Cup quarterfinalist then walks off, leaving Jessie behind to bury her face in her hands as we cut elsewhere.

[FGA Office]

• Singles Match •
Daniel Widdel vs. Charlie Blooms

Widdel came out like a house of fire in the first minute, knocking Blooms down with a pair of running clotheslines. An irish whip then sent Blooms into the ropes. Upon her return, she was thrown down with an STO for a count of two.

In the second minute, Widdel threw Blooms down with an inverted powerslam before locking on a Gorilla Clutch. Widdel fought for the submission while Blooms fought equally as hard to fight through the pain. After a bit of a struggle, Blooms made her way to the ropes.

In the fourth minute, an eye rake turned the tide for Blooms. The New York native quickly took advantage of the opening and dropped Widdel with a hammerlock DDT for the count of two. The SCCW standout whipped Widdel hard into the corner before she ran into the ropes. As Widdel staggered away from the corner, Blooms came back and brought him down with a bulldog for a count of two. A tornado small package also got her a count of two. She then had Widdel set up for a standing sitout shiranui when Widdel slipped out before shoving her into the ropes. When Blooms returned, Widdel threw her down with a one-handed spinebuster. Widel then brought Blooms down with the Emulsion Down (inverted overdrive) for the ONE, TWO, THREE!

Daniell Widdel O || Emulsion Down (6:22) || Charlie Blooms X

[FGA Office]

Susan Kent and Kendra Hollis are backstage for Vertigo 45, the camera zooms in to catch their conversation.

Kendra Hollis: Susan, I really don’t understand why you continue to waste your time wrestling. You’ve had more success outside of wrestling, yet you continue to show loyalty to a company and to Vertigo, that has given nothing in return. I’ve said this to everyone in this company with two f*cking ears, you’re their most marketable star. You’re the one with the endorsement deal with Puma. You’re the one who did a guest stint on NCIS, who by the way is considering you for a recurring role. You’ve appeared on billboards and on the pages of GQ. And after you got busted open in your last match, Tapout has been in contact with me about a possible endorsement deal.

Susan Kent: I get what your saying Kendra, and those endorsement deals have helped increase my appeal and made me a recognizable face outside wrestling. But I turned a full scholarship to Wichita State to become a wrestler. I love it and even though I haven’t been winning any matches, I’ve trained for too long just give up now.

Kendra Hollis: While I stick to my guns and feel you would be more successful without being in wrestling, I guess I see your point about wanting to continue. But you need to shake things up. This whole “entertaining the fans” stuff hasn’t been working for you. Maybe you need to consider other methods. Think about it.

Kendra walks away to take a phone call.

Susan Kent: Maybe Kendra is right, maybe I need to consider making a change...

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

Vertigo cuts backstage to where Spencer Burke is standing alone. He looks down at his watch – because he’s the type of person who still wears a watch! - knowing that he’s expecting somebody. Suddenly he looks up, sniffing the air like a bloodhound.

Kimmi Keister: We’re baaaaaaack!

The English voice rings out around the corridors of the Infinite Energy Arena as Spencer looks around to see the trio walking towards him. Kimmi, Kammi, and Kalli, the Keisters! All dressed in their ring attire ahead of their first match in FGA since June.

Kalli Keister: Spencey!

She says, running the last few steps to give Spencer a big hug. The interviewer is plunged face first into the ample cleavage of Kalli Keister before finally being released from the embrace. A goofy grin on his face until he composes himself.

Spencer Burke: Ladies and gentlemen, I’m here with The Keisters who, later tonight, will be facing Pedro Gonzales and Maritza Diaz. Firstly, welcome back.

Kimmi Keister: Thanks Spence. And I know what you’re thinking, why have we been gone so long? Wellllll, and I’m not gonna lie to you, Spence, you know I wouldn’t do that.

Kalli Keister: She totally wouldn’t, Spencey. Kimmi’s like, literally, the most honest person I know.

Kammi Keister: That’s so true.

Kimmi Keister: I know, right?!

Spencer clears his throat, getting the attention of all three Keisters.

Spencer Burke: Ahem, what was I thinking?

Kimmi Keister: I dunno, Spence, what were you thinking?

Kammi Keister: No, Kimmi, you were gonna tell him why we’ve been gone so long.

Kimmi Keister: Ohhh, yeah that. Well you know we haven’t wrestled in FGA since All Star Showdown, ever since The Polychromatic Lion Attack Squad became champions!

All three simultaneously simulate sticking their fingers down their throat to express their displeasure at the results that night.

Kimmi Keister: And why we didn’t get drafted to Vertigo or Flashpoint!

Kalli Keister: Urgh, their loss.

Kimmi Keister: Totally. But the things is, Spence, we’ve all had some time to, uh, you know, reflect on some things. ‘Cause we know the fans here in FGA didn’t always appreciate us. Or like us. Or even, uh, understand us. And the other tag teams here never really thought that highly of us.

Kammi Keister: Well what do they even know?

Kimmi Keister: Nothing, that’s what! And you all thought you could have a tag division without us.

She scoffs and shakes her head.

Kimmi Keister: Like, seriously. It’s like you don’t even know we’re the next SSWA Trios Champions, or that we’re gonna beat Lowri Moss and her stupid tag team partner next week. It’s like you’re willing to settle for the likes of Smart Style!

Kalli Keister: That’s not even a real wrestling style!

Kammi Keister: And they call us dumb.

Kimmi Keister: I know, right! Or The Polychromatic Lion Attack Squad – who totally got lucky that night! Just FYI! Ok. But now The Elysian Empire are out injured ‘cause of Dommy, and Lowri and Neal – who don’t even have a team name – are out injured. And Vertigo is now left with people like Firing Camp, or Shoot Squad, or Serpent’s Touch. And worse than all of them all, ok, is Pedro Gonzales and Maritza Diaz.

Spencer Burke: Your opponents for tonight. I take it you’re not fans of them?

Kimmi Keister: Uh, no. Ok. So tonight we’re gonna show you why FGA has missed us all these months. Why FGA needs us. And why we’re gonna be getting another shot at the FGA World Tag Team titles before any of these losers on Vertigo. ‘Cause you all suck.

She pushes her tongue against the inside of her cheek to simulate a blowjob, accompanied by the hand gesture too.

Kimmi Keister: And not in the good way. All Brandon Macdonald had to do was make that call and now we’re here and ready to take our rightful place back at the top of the FGA tag division. So all you losers just sit back and watch, ok. ‘Cause we’re gonna do this the only way we know how: The Keister Way!

With that, Kimmi clicks her fingers and leads her sisters away towards the ring, leaving Spencer Burke behind. His eyes following them as they leave, and the show cuts back to ringside.

[FGA Office]

• Singles Match •
James Edwards vs. Ricky Vega

The match started with Vega trying to get into a striking battle with Edwards. But that proved to be a bad idea when The Burning Heart overwhelmed Vega with forearm shivers that knocked him back into the corner. From there, Edwards unleashed a ballistic combination of rights and lefts to the body. After being brought out of the corner, vega was taken down by a running STO for a count of two.

In the second minute, Edwards had Vega set up for a fireman’s carry when Vega elbowed him multiple times in the side of the head. Vega then slipped down from behind, turned and ran into the ropes. When Vega returned, Edwards threw him down with a snap powerslam for a count of two. Edwards brought Vega back down with a fireman’s carry gourdbuster before making the cover for a count of two.

In minute four, Vega took control of the match after nailing a charging Edwards with a boot to the face in the corner. He then ran out of the corner and knocked Edwards down with a dropkick for a count of two. He then brought Edwards back down with an inverted headlock backbreaker for a count of two. Vega then pulled Edwards up into a seated position before running into the ropes. When he returned, he nailed Edwards with a penalty kick for a two count.

In minute six, Vega brought Edwards down with a bulldog. He then ran at Edwards when Edwards got up to a knee. Vega motioned for a Shining Wizard when Edwards popped up to his feet and caught him with the Double Tap (consecutive spinning back fists). He then ran into the ropes, returned and flattened Vega with the Pole Shift (rebound wheel kick). Edwards brought Vega back to his feet, lifted him up and planted him with the Foxfire (fisherman buster). Vega was then brought up into the seated position before Edwards ran into the ropes. When he returned, he flattened Vega with the Violent Gospel (Running PK). He made the cover and got the ONE, TWO, THREE!

James Edwards O || Violent Gospel (7:10) || Ricky Vega X

[FGA Office]

We cut to a shot of one of the faceplates of the FGA Tag Team Championships, earning a pop from the crowd. As the camera pans out, we see that it sits on a tabletop inside somebody’s dressing room… and within moments, the tri-company champion, Ashlyn De Luca walks into frame to a roar from the Infinite Energy Center. With the SSWA World Championship clutched in her left hand, she uses her right to pick up the FGA Tag Team Title, sliding it around her shoulder as she glances toward someone out of frame.

Ashlyn De Luca: ...and I didn’t bring it for my ego. I brought it for bludgeoning.

?: Well… I know that. I’m just pointing out that lots of people will say otherwise.

The camera then pans to the side of the table still out of the frame, bringing Logan Alexander into the shot and drawing another cheer from the crowd.

Logan Alexander: And I’m sure many of those people would be saying stuff like that just because they aren’t doing even a third as well as you are right now. Juggling three commitments to three companies and somehow still making it look relatively effortless. Most people would have probably dropped at least one title by now, yet on you go.

Ashlyn looks down at the wooden table and lowers her fist to it, knocking against it with a narrowed gaze toward her partner.

Ashlyn De Luca: Don’t jinx me.

Logan smiles sheepishly.

Logan Alexander: Sorry.

This earns a subdued chuckle from the audience but Ashlyn clears her throat and continues.

Ashlyn De Luca: I just…

She takes a small breath and glances toward the door and then back at Logan.

Ashlyn De Luca: I don’t like the idea that they’re here. Period. I feel like we should be out there, watching when they’re up against Firing Squad. Not like-- beating their heads in with belts and chairs and stuff, but like, definitely beating their heads in with belts and chairs and stuff. And no, no-- don’t gimme that look-- we KNOW it’s only a matter of time before they try something again with us. And who’s to say it’s not out there against Shootcamp? We’re out there dodging uppercuts and flying thigh strikes or whatever they do, and here comes Smart Style, ready to finish what they started at the Six Year Anniversary. And you know what would prevent that, Logan?

Ashlyn points toward Logan’s championship and then her championship, obnoxiously hinting at the obvious. He nods slightly in response.

Logan Alexander: You do have an excellent point with that. A retaliatory strike against them for what they did at the Anniversary show is still well within our rights to go and carry out. No one would blame us for getting even with them.

Ashlyn De Luca: Exactly. F-- hell yes, I like the way you’re thinking right now. Let’s get it.

He frowns slightly. Ashlyn walks out of frame, all the way to the doorway… and we hear the footsteps pause when she realizes Logan isn’t behind her. To another chuckle from the audience, Ashlyn slowly slides her feet, walking backwards into the position she’d previously stood in while Logan continues seamlessly.

Logan Alexander: But what would that lead to other than us looking over our shoulders for them regardless? And what if instead of striking tonight, to try and get an advantage on us again, which wouldn’t work, what if they decided to do so when we’re defending the titles and they get away with it? I’d think that would be a much worse outcome.

Logan is obviously thinking this situation over and he’s quiet for several moments. Ashlyn waits knowing that he’s likely got something else to add. He doesn’t disappoint.

Logan Alexander: But I don’t think they’d do that tonight though. They attack us, they’ll likely piss off Shootcamp, and then if Mark and Shintaro flee to this brand to avoid us, they’ll have them breathing down their necks instead.

He smirks slightly.

Logan Alexander: That’s something I’m certain that those two do not want to have to deal with.

Ashlyn nods a little, though she looks elsewhere, clearly disappointed with the lack of action.

Ashlyn De Luca: Yeah.

She shrugs, lowering her gaze to her tag team partner.

Ashlyn De Luca: You’re right. We should focus on Owen and Ace, right? They are the ones that are going onto Final Frontier in their brand’s final four. And… pssshhhImeeeann… if Upper Echelon hadn’t gotten all handsy with the timekeeper’s hammer back at Patriot Games, Shootcamp probably would’ve been there in the finals with us. I know that’s been bugging them for-- what, three months now?

Ashlyn shakes her head, exhaling softly.

Ashlyn De Luca: I’m not about to go out there and take an L from grumpy Ace and pissed-off Owen over what Jinzai did way back when, so I guess if we’re gonna bludgeon people, it should be Shootcamp.

Ashlyn nods to herself in silence for a moment before emphatically adding.

Ashlyn De Luca: I mean, like, not literally. That would get us disqualified. But you know. You know.

Logan nods and smirks in response.

Logan Alexander: Of course. But there’s no reason we can’t try to do so in a rule compliant way.

Ashlyn De Luca: Oh. Hell yeah.

He chuckles slightly at her reply.

Logan Alexander: As for Smart Style though… We’ll bide our time. I’m not saying that we forget about that sneak attack they dished out, but we’ll wait to strike until it’s in our best interest. Last week would have been ideal. Fighting them to a standstill benefited them a bit more than us. I’d bet we’ll get them in the ring again sometime soon…

He grins a bit more wickedly.

Logan Alexander: And that’s when we’ll put them in the holes they’ve dug.

Ashlyn De Luca: Oooh.

Ashlyn looks up at Logan, impressed. She nods again, smile intact.

Ashlyn De Luca: Sir. I got chills.

The camera pans in on the Tag Team Championship on De Luca’s shoulder as the champions begin discussing strategy in lowered voices before we fade away.

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

The business like approach that the professionally dressed Spencer Burke putting on his best professional smile nods at the camera while you see the taller, menacing figure of Seth Iser somewhat peering down on him with a scowl as he’s changed into a black and red variant of his ring attire. Though with how he’s tapping his foot he’s on a little bit of an edge.

Spencer Burke: Seth, after last week you had a competitive match where you went one on one with Dickie Harter and he almost came away with the victo--

Seth Iser: I’m cutting you off mid sentence. Keep your mouth shut for a moment and hold the microphone right here.

Iser’s sharpness startles Spencer for a second with how he just pierces him with that glare before Iser yanks his arm up to hold the microphone appropriately.

Seth Iser: All I’ve heard ever since that damn match went down was…’Oh Dickie came so close to getting that victory. What a hell’va fight that kid had.’ and yeah...he fought. He gave it everything he had. But it wasn’t enough. He lost. I won. Don’t treat it as anything other than that because that’s what the fact is. Twisting the information and trying to make it feel as if I lost and he won through his own effort is part of why the wrestling fans themselves are problematic in how they treat wrestlers because that’s just plain disrespectful to the man who won.

Spencer Burke: But you have to admit that it was a really good effort.

Seth Iser: Good effort sure. Might win you some fickle fans even. But in order to survive in this sport in the grand scheme of things and he knows this considering his other stops...you need to win. Doesn’t matter how either. I don’t just call myself wrestling’s greatest mind because it makes a nice t-shirt. I do so because I know many different ways to get that victory in the middle of that ring.

Spencer Burke: I guess on that topic it seems like you’ve got a meeting of a minds where Tyler Storm is off of a successful debut and you’re also on your way with a couple of victories here.

Iser’s face lightens slightly at the mention of the name of his opponent. He even lets out a sigh as if to calm down slightly. Even if he wasn’t yelling and screaming...he’d been agitated with the subject of Dickie.

Seth Iser: Well well...Tyler Storm. For both of us it’s an important match for completely different reasons...but I’d argue that for you Tyler...it’s one of the biggest nights of your life. You might tell the people that same thing yourself...but as your elder in this industry and someone who has perspective that the people who buy the tickets wish they could have...allow me to enlighten you a little.

Iser pauses a little bit as he taps his fingers on his bicep and there’s that look of focus etched on his face.

Seth Iser: The kid is second generation and that gives him a different kind of instinct compared to most people at his age and experience even. The circumstances that brought him into the sport with how his father retired...I heard of his dad’s retirement as I was breaking in. Worked in some various promotions, made a questionable friend in Owen Gonsalves, even ran a promotion...but I first crossed paths with the kid in a promotion based in Minneapolis. Saw the hunger and the talent. Saw the initial success. Kid was a hero to that crowd.

Iser pauses ever so slightly after that...just glances at an attentive Spencer Burke.

Seth Iser: But...but show me a hero...and in this instance the harshness of the wrestling industry wrote the tragedy.

Iser’s face darkens ever so slightly when he remembers that night. A rare moment where he actually has some sympathy etched on his face but that quickly vanishes and that normal steely glare is etched back onto his face.

Seth Iser: I was backstage the night he blew his back out. That ruptured disc. Took him quite a while before he was able to do normal things again. It’s the risk you run in the sport sometimes with injuries like that. And truthfully I’ve used your name Tyler as an example in the past as an example of a what if or a what might have been. And after so much time away...and after you had that leg injury in the past as well...I assumed you might’ve been happy to stay with your family.

Iser’s face grows ever darker now as he’s now starting to grow more intense. He balls his hand up.

Seth Iser: Like a phoenix again...here you are again. I wonder though...how much of this you did for your own personal self...because I find you an oddity in the sport in that you’re not driven as much by ego but perhaps your pride. How much of it is motivated by your three kids that are your own...the two that you are a stepfather toward I don’t know...but I know my own kid motivates me greatly.

Iser pauses for a second.

Seth Iser: But a part of me does wonder...how much of this is brought on by the fans. The same fans that while they did give you a warm reception...the same fans that years ago willed you to climb to the top of the cage and frog splash another human being to endanger yourself and endanger your own career in a short sighted move…

Iser’s eyes narrow as he looks at Spencer who is confused for a second.

Seth Iser: November twenty-eighth in twenty-fifteen is when he did that. I remember…

Spencer Burke: Wow…

Spencer shakes his head that Iser remembers that date for some reason and Iser just gets agitated for a moment with Spencer and notices his arm drop

Seth Iser: Like I said...hold the microphone right here.

Iser just moves Spencer’s arm up slightly.

Seth Iser: But Tyler. I saw you were a step slow in your return. To be expected. First match in a while. It happens. You still won. But that hesitation isn’t just ring rust. It’s doubt and hesitation. Maybe even worry you could get hurt. And that little bit of doubt...if I even remotely sense it you won’t have a chance in hell in getting that victory and proving what you want to prove to your kids.

Iser then takes a step forward as he brushes his hair aside as there’s just a stern look on his face and Spencer is intimidated in holding the microphone appropriately for Iser.

Seth Iser: But I promise you this Tyler. There won’t be talk about a great effort when tonight is over...or your great return having another victory. It’ll be what the highlight SHOULD be about. Wrestling’s Greatest Mind notches another victory while teaching another young wrestler a lesson he needs to learn about the reality of this business.

And with that Iser just walks off as Spencer lets out a sigh of relief knowing his business with Iser is concluded.

[FGA Office]

• Tag Team Match •
Maritza Diaz & Pedro Gonzales vs. The Keisters

The match started off with The Keisters getting the jump on Gonzales and Diaz from behind. Kimmi brought Gonzales into one corner and slammed his head into the top turnbuckle multiple times. Meanwhile, Kammi brought Diaz into the opposite corner and delivered multiple knife edge chops. The Keisters went to irish whip Gonzales & Diaz into each other. But they reversed, causing The Keister to collide in the center of the ring! Gonzales then sent Kimmi rolling to the outside after a running hurricanrana. Meanwhile, Kammi was sent to the outside after a running clothesline from Diaz. Gonzales then ran across the ring before knocking Kimmi down with a no-hands topé to the outside! Mexico’s City Favorite Son then rolled back inside, ran towards the opposite side of the ring and knocked Kammi down with a cartwheel plancha!

In the third minute, Diaz remained in control as she nailed Kammi with knife edge chops in the corner. After a hard irish whip into the opposite corner, Kammi staggered back over towards Diaz, who lifted her up and threw her down with a military press slam for a count of two. A tag out Gonzales, who placed Kammi in a hammerlock. But Kammi found a way out with a jumping snapmare. She then ran into the ropes to set up for a running maneuver. When she returned, she threw out a running big boot. But Gonzales countered with a capture suplex for a count of two. A scoop slam, followed by a senton atomico also got a count of count.

Tag back out to Diaz, who set Kammi up for a stalling suplex. While Diaz had Kammi held up in the air, Kimmi ran in and nailed Diaz with a punch to the midsection. Kammi followed up with a hammerlock DDT before tagging Kimmi back in. The Keisters then gave Diaz a rolling double leg slam before Kimmi made the cover. But it only got a two count. Diaz was thrown down with a hairpull whip before getting knocked into the corner with a dropkick. Kimmi doubled her over with a spinning back kick before bringing her down out of the corner with a bulldog. She made the cover, but it only got a count of two. After a tag out to Kimmi, The Keisters hit a double hip toss on Diaz, followed by Kimmi hip tossing Kammi onto Diaz. She made the cover, but it only got a count of two.

The Keister remained in control in minute six. After a tag out to Kimmi, Kammi whipped Diaz into the corner and followed up with a running hip attack. After Diaz slumped down in the corner, Kimmi ran across the ring and delivered a bronco buster. Kimmi then planted Diaz with a Tornado DDT. She made the cover, but Gonzales dove over and broke up the count at two and a ½. In minute eight, Diaz reversed an irish whip attempt. When Kimmi returned, Diaz threw her down with Head over Heels (overhead choke suplex). Both grapplers then found themselves on opposite sides of the ring from their partners with their opponents blocking their team’s corners. Kimmi ran at Diaz to knock her down. But Diaz was able to scoop Kimmi across her shoulder. She went for the Royalty Bomb (running Emerald Flowsion). When Kimmi slipped down from behind, she grabbed the back of Diaz’s tights to try and keep her from tagging out. But Diaz was able to break free, leap over and tag in Gonzales!

Gonzales quickly brought Kimmi down with a springboard somersault hurricanrana. He reached back and hooked the leg for the cover. But Kammi knocked him over with a single leg dropkick at two and a ½. The Keisters then whipped him into the ropes and brought him down with a double flapjack when he returned. After knocking Gonzales to the outside with a double dropkick, they sent Diaz into the ropes. But when she returned, she turned both The Keisters inside out with a diving clothesline. She then threw Kimmi down with a belly to belly suplex before giving Kammi a belly to belly as well. After throwing Kimmi down with an inverted powerslam, she pulled Kimmi up to her knees before nailing her with a roundhouse knee shot. Diaz had Kimmi set up for the OMG Drop (double underhook sitout facebuster) when Kammi hopped onto her back and applied a sleeper. After letting go of Kimmi, Diaz staggered around the ring with Kammi on her back before throwing her down in front of her. When Kammi returned to her feet, Diaz knocked her down with the Miami Express (running knee strike). Diaz was then quickly spun around by Kimmi, who doubled her over with a kick to the midsection before bringing her down with Special K (Twist of Fate) for the ONE, TWO, THREE!

Maritza Diaz & Pedro Gonzales X || Special K (9:32) || The Keisters O

[FGA Office]

Coming off of the tag match, the scene cuts backstage to Jessie Pederson who is standing by.

Jessie Pederson: Coming up after the break we are gonna be witnessing a big time matchup between two newcomers to FGA who are familiar with each others' work. But before we get to that, please welcome my guest and one of the participants in that match, Tyler Storm!

Tyler jumps right next to Jessie from off screen, startling her on the very close landing as he laughs happily.

Tyler Storm: Jessie! Nice to see you again, it's been a couple of shows. But, figured with the time off last Vertigo, I'd focus a bit on taking care of the family and getting in a bit better shape coming off that debut match here...

Jessie Pederson: A debut match that did end in a victory for you, might I add.

Tyler Storm: That it did! But I do not want to take that as something I should expect every night. As I said to my Shootcamp buds and to a few people around here tonight while I was getting prepped, this place is a...wait for it...frontier for talent both new and experienced to come in and bring the highest level of competition that frankly I have seen in this industry in a long time. And that includes my opponent tonight, my dear old friend-person-thing, Sethry J Iser.

Jessie Pederson: And we did get a chance to speak with Iser a little earlier, he definitely looked prepared for tonight as he has had a fun time going through his matchups the past couple of shows here on Vertigo. But you said it clearly, Tyler, you two do know each other tonight and do know at least to some degree what both can bring to the table.

Tyler Storm: Correct, we certainly do to an extent. Now of course, this is a big moment as it is the first time Iser and myself have faced off man-on-man. But where I do get my experience with him is working with him back over with my Visionary peeps, including the opportunity to team with him one show during a time where he decided to be a little less cranky for the kids. Trust me, Iser doesn't have many of those moments.

Tyler smiles to that little remark from himself, shrugging in jest and continuing.

Tyler Storm: But trust me, I'm not taking this opportunity tonight lightly. Both of us are here to prove something to FGA as far as where we can go in the company, and being in this new environment symbolizes the big thing: we are two very different people since the last time we shared a ring together as one-off partners. Luckily, I've had chances to talk with Seth over the months since our days working for the old company we shared employment in, despite a lot of things we do differ on. I respect Seth in this industry and since meeting him he has offered me a lot of advice when it came to advancing in this industry. That included a decent bit of advice following my back injury that stole over a year of my career and took away my opportunity to say a true goodbye to my Visionary family. To say he hasn't been someone I admire on a professional sense would be a lie, despite again the differences in how we go about handling certain things and people.

Jessie Pederson: Iser has shown over the past couple of shows a lack of remorse for causing pain to the people he gets into the ring with. With that said, and going to the back injury, has there been a concern that going into a match now with such a veteran in the business like he is that the back being a target could play badly for you?

Tyler Storm: Iser would be a fool to not go for my back, and honestly as much as it even has me yelling at myself on the inside, I want him to target that burden on me. I want him to try and break me, I want him to give me some sort of pain tonight that tests the limits of the injury I sustained those 18+ months ago. But the thing is, Jessie, I want him to do so to prove my mind right that I am back to being the Tyler Storm I want to be. To know my back can take the punishment, to know despite all my emptyheaded moves in my career that have tested my body, it's still rolling and I'm only looking at brighter days in my career. If I can feel that confidence in my soul, I know that is going to be the ultimate victory tonight against Seth.

Tyler shakes his head and his grin grows brighter as Jessie catches on.

Jessie Pederson: But...

Tyler Storm: But...I plan on much more than that symbolic victory. Seth Iser...a man I respect, a man I can consider in some ways a mentor and friend and others a sadistic jackass who has caused plenty of torment to those I love...I want you to listen to this little tidbit. I'm going into tonight feeling fresh, loving being in great Duluth, Georgia after the 3 and a half hour drive from Tuscaloosa, enjoying the snowy weather that came through the area all throughout yesterday, Seth tonight this is my Christmas celebration and it feels just right. I want to top it off with that sweet win, and I know that means taking into the ring everything I got against a man who in ring age is old and very experienced. A man who has hurt people badly, caused distress to others, been a burden to some fans, a person of fear to many people...but Seth Iser understand, I know the MAN you are, not the monster most people have watched you be in your career. And tonight I tear the mask away fully, show the MAN that is Seth Iser, and show he may be full of tricks and underhanded tactics, but he has secretly over the months been advising his downfall in FGA. That downfall is going to be sitting on these shoulders, eating an Eye of the Storm, and taking a 1...2...3.

Tyler steps closer to the camera and nods with a serious glare coming from his gaze.

Tyler Storm: Seth...it's business tonight, and it's my intention to give these people a hell of a show. And if that means taking this battered body into another war, then so be it, because they just plated this baby up with new armor and she is moving like new. Let's light up Duluth like it's the biggest Christmas Extravaganza in town...and Iser, let's stay cool, while you be witness to Tyler Storm's revival tour. Part 2 is next.

Tyler pops back next to Jessie and pats her shoulder.

Tyler Storm: And that, Jess, is how you get this hype train moving! Catch ya later, that curtain is calling my name.

Tyler sprints off with Jessie standing there speechless but laughing to herself.

Jessie Pederson: Well there you have it, stay tuned because that match is next!

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

It is one of the biggest and baddest events of the calendar year. The front office of Frontier Grappling Arts has put together a show that they hope will cause an explosion within the world of sports entertainment. Some of the biggest stars of New York’s illustrious history will be involved. FGA itself boasts one of the greatest rosters assembled at present, and Mr. Brandon MacDonald and Miss. Hadley Herrera know this. On December 22 and 23, 2017, they plan to lead their brands into notoriety, with the help of their tireless workforce. As a whole, FGA can compete with the most famous leagues in the world. Final Frontier will be the occasion that reminds everyone FGA’s place in the world.

Situated in a locker room, Jessie Pederson sits in between her guests. All five are seated on steel chairs. The team of Firing Squad sits to Jessie’s right and Serpent’s Touch to her left.  The crowd booms in response to seeing both teams. The cheers for Firing Squad being somewhat louder than the jeers for Serpent’s Touch. Jessie takes a quick glance at both sides. Sensing fireworks on the horizon, she gets straight into it.

Jessie Pederson: Final Frontier is upon us ladies and gentlemen. In what will arguably be the best pure wrestling show of the year, 17,000 in the Times Union Centre will see Serpent's Touch and Firing Squad! A fit finale to their  incredibly intense personal differences. It's a match bound to stir up a storm on Final Frontier this year, and we know the four of them are each resolute in their desire to come out on top.

Jessie turns to Firing Squad.

Jessie Pederson: Luke, as the one who’s competed at Final Frontier before, it feels most appropriate to start with you. What are your thoughts leading into the last show of the year?

With feeling, Luke nods his head. A look of calm washing over his face.

Luke Jackson: It’s starting. The atmosphere's changed. Anxiety and fighting spirit… wishes and prayers. The intensity before the start... so fragile any touch could snap it. Everyone lines up ready to battle to their limit. You can feel their pulses. Calm thoughts, passionate emotions, their desire to win… their faith in themselves. The road to Final Frontier begins with all these things in their hearts. Final Frontier comes closer and closer. We are seeing the beginnings to the stage being set. This… this is our superbowl. You bring a little extra to your game when you go into Final Frontier.
For a moment, Luke has a distant look in his eye as he recalls his competitive contest with Chris Bond two years ago.  He rolls through the card for the upcoming event through his mind and shakes his head.

Luke Jackson: What an event. What athletes! What a way to close the book on 2017. When it comes to Final Frontier, you always get the best effort... the most focus... the most intensity... the most meaningfulness... this is what professional wrestling is all about. this is professional wrestling like it's meant to be. The excitement to be able to give the FGA fans what they deserve... a spectacle like no other...  is burning up inside Ymir and I. Day in, day out, we’ve been working on our craft so that we can be a well oiled unit. And when it comes to this big bang to close the year, they will see something special that no other tag team can give them. I can guarantee it. When the time comes… you will get the absolute best from Firing Squad.
The cheers of the crowd are heard, causing Faye Valentine to scoff. Kimiko shakes her head, her gaze never leaving Jackson. He returns her glare. Jessie turns to Serpent’s Touch.

Jessie Pederson: And Serpent’s Touch… with Firing Squad being your opponents on such a stage, and having battled them so fiercely since the first show after the draft, do you care to share your thoughts on them?

Faye and Kimiko share a knowing look.

Faye Valentine: We’ve been a little disappointed in them. They’re undisciplined, ragtag snot nosed little kids. With a tag team like that, the only possible result is their complete slaughter.

Ymir rolls her eyes at the slight, but Faye’s not done.

Faye Valentine: Yes, the time is upon us, Jessie.  This sporting event for the ages that one of the world's most celebrated wrestling companies calls Final Frontier. No matter how you look at it... Final Frontier is a monster event that attracts tens of thousands of people each year. Where nearby tourists flood in non-stop. Where VIP guests from overseas are warmly welcomed and hosted in luxurious hotels. It is an unbelievable event. It isn’t your run of the mill monthly pay-per-view, where they are hit and miss. This Pay-Per-View has to hit…  The pressure is on. It’s time to take the gloves off.  Which is why Firing Squad’s luck is running out.  

Faye narrows her eyes at Firing Squad.

Faye Valentine:  Wrestling's best reaches even higher peaks than you can imagine.  So while you’re still stuck in la-la land, fantasising over your imagined successes… we are going to beat you so silly that you’ll turn tail and run, pissing yourselves all the while. You think you can beat us but we know we can beat you. Because unlike you two with your little fluke last time… Serpent’s Touch have been major players form the start. We plunged into the wrestling world raising havoc wherever we went. Whenever some terrible incident occurs, you can be sure that it's always Serpent’s Touch stepping out of the flames. For those leagues we competed in, it was as if three ferocious dragons had been set loose into the wild, free to do as they pleased. Come Final Frontier, we will not leave a shadow of a doubt that Serpent's Touch are the emergent force in this company. While, for the two of you…  you two will deeply regret the choices you made in signing contracts with the top company in pro wrestling.

Faye shows a smirk.

Faye Valentine: It’s time to make another choice. What will you do “Firing Squad”? Will you continue to slump and fade into obscurity... or will you get on your feet to fight and fade into obscurity. Now, which do you choose?

Ymir and Luke eye Faye. Jessie raises an eyebrow at her words, but Faye presses on.

Faye Valentine: What? You'll just fade into obscurity either way? Don't be such a stiff. It's just a quiz. Life is just one important choice after another. Let's see how far your naive choices can take you. Just don’t expect any patience from our side with you two clumsily stumbling around for any semblance of success.No one has the time to watch you trip over yourselves. We’ll do what we should have done the moment we laid eyed on you. Because I'm tired of it. Kimiko's tired of it. So we're going to put an end to it. Once Final Frontier is over… Firing Squad is over… tag team or otherwise.

The audience boo vehemently at the words of Faye Valentine. Kimiko cracks her knuckles, pleased with Faye’s sharp answer. Jessie turns to Ymir.

Jessie Pederson: Ymir, we all know how keen you were to make your debut either at Patriot Games or Trouble in Paradise. At last, you’ll finally be making your FGA PPV debut at Final Frontier. Could you tell us what’s going through your mind.

Quickly gathering her thoughts, Ymir smiles.

Ymir Ocampos:  It is just amazing to be here in FGA, let alone one of the biggest events of the year.  Being here on the road to a battle at Final Frontier against Serpent’s Touch. Where there’ll be a huge crowd of spectators. If that ain’t flashy, then I don’t know what flashy is.

Ymir Ocampos:  Everyone wants in on Final Frontier. It's the ultimate battlefield for war. A worldwide professional wrestling spectacular showcasing the best grapplers under the heavens. It just doesn't get any bigger. That’s what we’re aiming for. A clear… decisive... victory at that stage.  We’ve seen over the last few months that Serpent’s Touch are formidable. We welcome the challenge. There is nowhere I'd rather be that weekend than in the squared circle on that stage. Because with opponents like this... we have no room... for any hesitation or failure.

Looking past Jessie, Ymir fixes her eyes on Serpent’s Touch.

Ymir Ocampos: We will prepare the best possible stage for you to make your appearance. From then on, it shall be up to you and yours to make it a grand performance worthy of the Final Frontier name. But if you two don’t manage to keep up with the pace that we are gonna set… then we shall be the ones to steal the show and chew right through you. We will pull the rug out from underneath your feet.  We did not start this...

And like that, Ymir’s eyes went as cold as a child’s worst nightmare.

Ymir Ocampos: … but we will finish it.

The crowd roars even louder at the statement of intent of the teenager.

A sudden revelation slowly causes the corners of Faye’s mouth to quiver, delighted like a mischievous child at an abandoned toystore. Her pretty face tilts one way, and then the other, like a freshman biology student studying their first dissected frog.

Faye Valentine: So innocent. Or should I say untouched? Do you want to know why so many have their attention on you?
Ymir doesn't respond. She merely continues staring at Faye. Kimiko and Luke watch Faye also. So Faye continues.

Faye Valentine: You are like a piece of white cloth. You will accept anyone, and can be dyed any colour. People are attracted to the possibilities of a white cloth banner, one that can they can colour in with their own colour in their imagination. Much like your boyfriend over there.

Luke had to bite his tongue at  yet another joke regarding his and Ymir’s partnership. Seeing this actually brings a smile to Kimiko’s face. The blue pools of Valentine's gaze never falter, as a malignant grin slowly takes shape.

Faye Valentine: In comparison, my colour is black. I will not be dyed by anything and stain everything black instead. No matter where I go, I leave nothing but darkness. Everything in my wake will be stained by my colour. Including you two. You can struggle for as long as you like. Please, by all means struggle. It's more fun for me that way. Struggle whilst we choke the light out of you. Your eyes shall continue to dim until it is extinguished completely on this battleground.

Jessie shifts uncomfortably at the language being used, but Ymir makes a cute frown at Faye’s words. She sits back in her chair as she considers them.

Ymir Ocampos: Interesting words. We’ll be dyed black? If I were a piece of white cloth that would certainly be true. A white banner... Sorry, but we’re nothing like that. I don't know about the people around you, but us two are different.  We’re not easily swapped with a colour. If anything, I might say our banner is covered in dirt.

Luke blinks at the choice of words. But he doesn’t stop Ymir from speaking.

Ymir Ocampos: No matter how much you wash, they're the stubborn stains that won't come out. Because they're stubborn things that won't come out no matter how you wash them, you start getting used to them. You start accepting them. It's a really troublesome thing. But... even though it's a stain, over time, it can be turned into something we can show others. Before you know it, It’ll become an excellent banner in its own right. Yes, those stains are our losses. Our failures. The hard lessons that we learned all on our own. No matter what comes our way, we will remember the struggles we’ve had and we will use them to guide our steps. Rather than logic, we’re a bunch who spring into action based on feelings… and because of that, you can't control us. No one can control us. We won't be defeated by any colour, and neither will we be dyed by any colour. We will go on our own path and succeed in our own way. We won't back down to anyone. Not you.Not the New Murder. Not The Chaotics. Not anyone. And in doing so, we will climb to the top of the mountain. We will become the symbol of FGA’s strength. That is our purpose as wrestlers and we will fulfil it.

Luke smiles at how Ymirv responded. Faye, meanwhile, loses her composure and starts to snicker.

Faye Valentine: You? The symbol of strength? If the likes of you were to challenge for the tag titles, you’d just get squashed and that’d be the end! You haven't been in FGA for a minute.  As you are now, you lack the ability to even hope to stand against The Chaotics or us. Maybe if you trained hard for ten years, you could get a sniff of glory. But if you ask me, a weak little bitch like you is better off running back to where you came from and sucking on her mother’s teat.

Some Ooohs are heard from the crowd and Kimiko actually laughs.

Jessie was an interested spectator. Her desire for an orderly, cohesive interview was ever present, but her desire for fiery emotions was even greater. For Ymir’s eyes shot wicked gleams of hate as they fell upon the object of her loathing. And in her heart, she knew that it would require but a tiny spark to turn her hatred for Faye into the blood lust of a killer.

Ymir was ready to rip Faye to pieces , but Luke halts her with a persuasive touch on the shoulder.

Luke Jackson: Cute. You’ve had your turn telling us what we are. Lemme tell you this. What you don't understand in trying to attack us when we're down. Trying to put us down. Trying to keep us out.  Costing us the opportunity to be in the Frontier Lions Cup. Even ruining Brian Stryker’s hard earned cash in of the 15 title for the Pride Championship… is that we’ve been figuring you out. I've seen right through you. You'll destroy any good that anyone else has because you don't have anything good yourselves.  You’re no dragons. You’re not even serpents. You're like a bucket of crabs. Whenever one gets a leg up into freedom, you'll pull that one back down into the masses to share your misery. Any crab that wants to get outta the bucket has to fight off the lot of you.  Serpent’s Touch. The bunch who'll try to bring him or any other crab back down if he gets above them. Just so all the crabs stay in the bucket. Even though the bucket would be easy to get out of on their own.  You don’t want anyone to rise so you’ll sabotage them.   But that was the mistake you made.  See, in your world there are no consequences. You can do whatever you want. That's not the world we live in. We live in reality. Where everything comes back on you whether you like it or not. And just like we did on the last Vertigo, we can beat you again. Serpent’s Touch will be crushed. Because Firing Squad possesses a strength that greatly exceeds your imagination.This is a match that will require both teams to unleash every ounce of fortitude and willpower possible to have any chance of victory. You may not recognise the significance in defeating us, but we know the significance in defeating you.  And whether you like to admit or not, we proved on the last Vertigo that we can beat you. So try to overlook us again. And with the eyes of millions watching our every move, Serpent’s Touch will be left broken. Humiliated. Conquered. Welcome to the consequences. Welcome to the retribution.  Welcome back to reality.

Faye’s big, blue eyes shone with annoyance from beneath her delicate eyebrows.  Suddenly exhausted with life in general, Faye leans back, causing the front two legs of her chair to lift off the floor. She allows her eyelids to close over the blue pools that are her eyes.

Faye Valentine: Even pig-headed children like them can be cute when they're fired up like this, don't you think.  Serpent’s Touch overlook no one. We shall be embarrassed no longer. I'll only say this once: prepare yourselves Firing Squad. Come Final Frontier. We will prove our strength once and for all. We... are going to [BLEEP]ing devour you.

There is no humour in her tone this time. Like an assassin’s blade, Kimiko swiftly cuts into the conversation.

Kimiko: jaku niku kyō shoku. The weak are meat and the strong eat.

[FGA Office]

• Singles Match •
Tyler Storm vs. Seth Iser

The bell sounded as Storm and Iser started things off with a brawl in the middle of the ring. The crowd cheered as both men traded right hands without slowing down for a second. The two grapplers continued to exchange blows until Storm gained the upperhand. Each punch began to knock Iser back closer and closer towards the ropes. While Iser appeared dazed, Storm turned and ran into the far ropes. When he returned, Iser flattened him with a running big boot!

The action was then brought into the corner by Iser, who slammed Storm head-first into the top turnbuckle. He then delivered a series of elbow strikes, followed by a series of knee strikes, followed by a series of elbows strikes in the corner. After a foot choke was broken up at a count of four and a ½, Iser threw Storm out of the corner with a hip toss. After Storm returned to his feet, Iser charged out of the corner and threw out another big boot. But this time, Storm was able to slide out of the way. When Iser turned out, he was caught with a jumping knee strike! Storm threw out a European Uppercut before connecting with another jumping knee strike. Storm continued the European Uppercut/jumping knee strike combo until he sent Iser over the top rope with a clothesline. Instead of landing hard on the floor, Iser landed safely on his feet. After climbing back back up onto the apron, Storm knocked him to the floor with a spinning heel kick.

In minute five, Storm stayed in control with knife edge chops in the corner. However, an irish whip was reversed, which sent him hard into the opposite corner. Iser ran across the ring and went to follow up with a European Uppercut. But Storm moved out of the way, causing Iser to crash into the turnbuckles. As Iser stumbled back, Storm grabbed him from behind and threw him down with a Backdrop Driver. He made the cover, but it only got a count of two. He positioned Iser for another Backdrop Driver when Iser countered with multiple elbows to the back of the head. After bringing Storm down with a russian leg sweep, Iser went for a jumping knee drop. But Storm rolled out of the way. When Iser got back to his feet, Storm doubled him over with the Hybrid Crackdown (inverted headlock into a rolling elbow). Storm went to follow up with a scissor kick. But Iser slipped out of the way and threw him across the ring with a release German Suplex!

After an irish whip into the ropes, Iser sent Storm across the ring with a release belly to belly suplex. Iser stayed in control during minute seven after bringing Storm down with a hotshot. Iser then dropped multiple knees across the face of Storm before grinding his knee brace across the face. Iser brought Storm down with a hangman’s neckbreaker for a count of two. A pendulum backbreaker got another count of two. The Icebreaker (Irish Curse) got a count of two and a half. Iser then sent Storm into the corner with an irish whip. After hitting Storm with a European Uppercut, he sent Storm into the opposite corner with another irish whip before connecting with a lariat. Another release belly to belly suplex sent Storm across the ring for a count of two and a ½. Iser had him set up for another release German Suplex when Storm countered with multiple back elbows to the face, breaking the hold. After Storm ran into the ropes, Iser threw him down with the Pillar of Truth (Bossman Slam) for a count of two and a ½.

During minute ten, Iser brought Storm back to his feet and nailed him with three jabs before throwing out a discus clothesline. Storm was able to duck the clothesline and counter with the Rolling Tide (Air Crash Raid Neckbreeaker)! With both men down, the ref started his count.

At the count of nine and a ½, both men returned to their feet and started trading blows. The slugfest continued in the center of the ring before both men switched from throwing punches to exchanging European Uppercuts. The slugfest continued until Storm nailed Iser with a jumping knee strike. Iser then followed up with a big boot. Storm then delivered another jumping knee strike. Iser came right back with another big boot. Storm then threw out a bicycle kick. But Iser caught his foot, swung Storm’s leg away from him and when Storm turned back around, Iser turned him inside out with a discus clothesline! He made the cover. But it only got a count of two and a ½. Iser went for an irish whip, but Storm reversed. When Iser came back, Storm threw him down with a spinebuster! He rolled across him and hooked the leg, but it only got a count of two and a half. After doubling Iser over with a knee to the midsection, he ran into the ropes, came back and threw out another scissor kick. But Iser slipped out of the way. He had Storm set up for a German Suplex when Storm blocked with an elbow to the face. After a standing switch, Storm shoved Iser into the ropes. Storm went for a leapfrog when Iser came back. But Iser caught him in mid air, turned and threw him down with a spinebuster! He rolled across Storm and hooked the leg for the cover. But it only got a count of two and a ½.

Both men returned to their feet and continued to trade blows until Iser sent Storm into the ropes with an irish whip. When Storm returned, Iser went for a running clothesline. But Storm ducked and ran into the opposite set of ropes. When both grapplers came, back, Storm threw out a running clothesline. But Iser ducked. Both grapplers continued to run the ropes. When they returned, they knocked each other down with a running clothesline! With both men down, the ref started his count. Neither man moved until the ref’s count reached six. Storm tried to sit up, but eventually fell back down to the mat. At the ref’s count of eight, Iser tried to turn over and make the cover. But he couldn’t and eventually fell onto his back. Once the ref’s count reached ten, he called for the bell.

Tyler Storm X || Draw (14:38) || Seth Iser X

• COMMERCIAL BREAK •

[FGA Office]

"New Blood" by Zayde Wolf plays over the PA system of the Infinite Energy Center, eliciting a cheer from the fans, and when the song's intro finishes, the cheers increase in volume, as through the curtains walks Lowri Moss. Dressed in her ring attire and a Dickie Harter t-shirt, a smiling Lowri slowly makes her way towards the ring, doing her best to slap hands with each of the fans that reach out to her on either side of the aisle. After arriving at ringside, Lowri clambers into the ring, and goes to collect a microphone. She walks towards the centre of the ring, and glances around at the fans present inside the venue, basking in their cheers. Once her music ceases playing, Lowri then raises her hand - and the microphone - towards her mouth.

Lowri Moss: What’s occurring, Duluth?

That draws the anticipated cheap pop. Lowri smiles again, before continuing.

Lowri Moss: Right, I’m going to get straight to the point. I’m sure you can all probably guess what I’m out here to talk about - or rather, who I’m out here to talk about. And that is, of course, Dom Harter.

The mention of The Tenacious Little Bastard causes the crowd to boo.

Lowri Moss: For the past couple of months now, Dom Harter has been a thorn in my side. Week after week, both here in FGA and elsewhere, he has found different ways to antagonise me. But two weeks ago, I finally turned the tables on him - for once, he was the one that was caught off guard; after everything that I have been subjected to at his hands, to describe that as satisfying would be a big understatement.

Lowri’s smile broadens slightly.

Lowri Moss: Other people have characterised me as being sweet and kind, and maybe I am, but that doesn’t mean that I’m a doormat - I’m not going to allow someone to walk all over me and get away with it; I don’t care who you are, if you try to push me around, I will stand up for myself. I said I wouldn’t take what Dom had done lying down. He knew I would retaliate - he even told me that he was expecting a reprisal of some sort. Well, I told him that I would pick my spot carefully - and that’s exactly what I did. I made sure to strike when the rest of The New Murder weren’t right there to help him. He knew that I would be watching his match with Sadie San Francisco, especially after all of his talk about wanting a shot at the Mid-Atlantic Legacy Championship. And I admit, I did promise that I wouldn’t get involved in the match - but that was before he decided to introduce a steel chair into the equation.

Lowri gazes downwards momentarily, while recalling an unpleasant memory. She then lifts her head back up, as she continues.

Lowri Moss: It was about two months ago now that Dom attacked my partner, Neal Durden, while Chris Bond held my arms back, and forced me to watch. I can’t put into words just how useless I felt, having to watch Neal get hurt right in front of my eyes, and being powerless to do anything to stop it. What made me feel even worse was that Neal was an innocent party: he hadn’t done anything to Dom - Dom simply attacked him to get back at me. So when I saw Dom bring a chair into the ring two weeks ago, regardless of what I had promised Sadie, there was no chance that I was going to stand idly by and watch as he injured someone else - this time, I was going to stop him.

Lowri puts her free hand on her hip.

Lowri Moss: You can only be a prick for so long before it comes back and hits you in the face with a rolling cutter onto a steel chair.

A smirk crosses her face.

Lowri Moss: Of course, I wasn’t done there though, as I also made my presence felt at the end of the show, when I took out Jaelynn Ramsey with a superkick. And while it may have been Jae that was on the receiving end on that occasion, rather than Dom, I still got at him by proxy, by attacking someone close to him, just like he did to me when he attacked Neal.

The smirk is replaced by a sour expression.

Lowri Moss: However, following what happened two weeks ago, Dom Harter actually had the gall to criticise me for my actions, asking if it’s all fair game now. You actually dared to ask me that, Dom, after everything that you’ve put me through?!

With the anger in her voice rising, Lowri moves towards the nearest camera, and glares down the lens, as if looking daggers at Dom himself.

Lowri Moss: Fair game?! It became fair game the moment you injured, Neal! It became fair game, the moment you gave me a cradle piledriver onto a steel chair!

She walks back to the middle of the ring, giving herself a few seconds to calm down.

Lowri Moss: He also asked me if that was what I meant when I said that I’d get even with him.

There is a shake of the head from Lowri.

Lowri Moss: We aren’t even, Dom; I’m not sure we’ll ever truly be even.

She lets out a small sigh.

Lowri Moss: You’re right about something though: it’s time for the sneak attacks to stop.

She then gives a half-smile.

Lowri Moss: So let’s do it properly, before I unintentionally drag someone else into all of this. You...versus me...in two week’s time...at Final Frontier.

While the crowd cheers upon hearing this proposal, Lowri turns and looks expectantly, up the aisle, towards the stage.

Lowri Moss: How about it, Dom?

I THINK YOU’VE GOT A LOW SELF OPINION MAN
I SEE YOU STANDING ALL BY YOURSELF

The sounds of ‘Low Self Opinion’ blare throughout the Inifinite Energy Arena as the thousands of fans immediately begin to boo. And boo. And boo some more until, finally, Dom Harter steps out from behind the curtain. Although the appearance of the man himself is enough to cause the fans to boo louder.

Harter is dressed in his ring attire and leather jacket, with a New Murder t-shirt underneath. A scowl plastered on his face as he glares down the aisle at Lowri Moss. The Welsh woman is unmoved, though, her gaze focused on Harter as he pulls down the bandana from in front of his face. He reaches the bottom of the aisle and moves towards the steps, walking deliberately as he climbs up onto the apron, pausing for a moment before he steps into the ring.

Dom Harter: You…

He points at Lowri as the crowd cheer.

Dom Harter: ...and me?

And then they boo. But Harter isn’t fazed by the reaction.

Dom Harter: For years I’ve warned people. Lowri, I’ve warned them not to cross Dom Harter…

He chuckles to himself, shifting his weight from one foot to the other as Lowri continues glaring at him, braced ready for a sneak attack as the two stand mere feet apart.

Dom Harter: ...but you thought you knew better. You thought you could get away with it, and you taunted me. You violated me!

Dom yells, grabbing hold of the blonde streak in his hair.

Dom Harter: And you thought you’d escape unscathed? Et sic per gradus ad ima tenditur - do you remember that, Lowri? Do you know what that means?! When I looked in the eyes of my Malcolm Drake and spoke those words to him all those years ago, when I broke The Usual Suspects, when I ruined Pat Gordon Jr., when I crippled Alistair Mangold and Akrista O’Hare. Until the recent times when The New Murder beat down Jimmy Page like a little bitch! When we took The Elysian Empire out of action. When I injured Neal Durden. And you want to push me?! You want to put people like Dickie Harter in harm’s way?

That smirk crosses Dom’s face as he takes a step closer to Lowri.

Dom Harter: You haven’t seen what I have in store for him. Not yet. But soon...and after I’m done with him. When I’ve taken all of your friends out of action...then I’ll see you in that ring at Final Frontier...

A defiant Lowri stands her ground. She stares silently at Dom for a moment, before responding to him.

Lowri Moss: And then what - you'll take me out too, is that it?

She tilts her head slightly to the side.

Lowri Moss: Do you remember a couple of months ago, Dom, you told me that as I'm a Taurus, that means I'm stubborn and self-indulgent?

A wry smile crosses her lips.

Lowri Moss: You pushed me, Dom, so I pushed you back. And if it isn't already apparent to you just how stubborn I can be, it will be soon enough. Because at Final Frontier, I’ll fight you with everything I have, until I have nothing more to give. Labor omnia vincit.

The two step forward, their faces mere inches from the other; Lowri still wearing that wry smile as that familiar crooked grin spreads slowly across Harter’s face. The fans here in Duluth cheering as the staredown continues. Finally Dom takes a step backward, not taking his gaze off Lowri as she stands there defiant. Harter steps out of the ring as ”New Blood” begins to play again, and he walks back up the aisle with his back to Lowri Moss.

[FGA Office]

Far away from the in-ring action we find Brandon Macdonald in his office, sitting back as he sips on a cup of coffee in an effort to keep warm in the face of the bitterly cold weather than has cascaded down upon Duluth this evening

As the hot and caffeinated liquid reaches the spot that no other beverage would be able to reach, Macdonald lets out a small sigh of contentment at being able to enjoy just one small moment of pleasure in an evening that’s seen him wish he put on his thermal undershirt before leaving the hotel this morning before spending the entire day coordinating tonight’s show

Just at the moment where he’s finally got a small moment to himself, Macdonald hears a knock at the door, causing him to begrudgingly place his cup down on his desk

Brandon Macdonald: Come in.

Having invited the knockee into his office, Macdonald is pleasantly surprise to see Mark Bisley saunter through the door with the look of a man who owns the place, or at the very least has an uncle who knows somebody who owns the place, and with him is Shintaro Majima looking an awful lot like somebody who is there to make sure there’s no chance of an interruption

Wait, did I see pleasantly surprised?  I meant mildly annoyed, not least because of the draft that Smart Style’s entry causes

Mark Bisley: Good evening, Mr Macdonald, I hope you’re having a pleasant evening.

Realising that his night’s about to feel a couple of hours longer than it actually is, Macdonald tempts fate by asking…

Brandon Macdonald: What are you aksing for this time?

Mark Bisley: Asking for something?  Oh no, you have misunderstood our intentions, after all you have arranged a match for us this evening and that is more than enough for us to ask for.  I mean, short of telling Invictus Fight Club to get back into the ring so we could beat them again just so Logan Alexander looks that little bit more foolish as he regurgitates another long, bitter rant about us, the opponents you have selected for us this evening are perfect.

Bisley cannot help but look towards Majima, then back towards Macdonald

Mark Bisley: Although I do hope that, unlike your Flashpoint counterpart Ms. Herrera you don’t allow the baboons out of the ape house so they can pretend they have an interest in commentary when all they are really interested in doing is finding any excuse to attack somebody from behind.

Once again Macdonald sighs, but this time not because he’s found himself a little moment of calm in a harsh and unrelenting world – more because he wishes Bisley would get to the point

Brandon Macdonald: So if you aren’t here to ask for something, why are you in my office right now?

Mark Bisley: To thank you, of course.  As I said, Ms. Herrera is about as able to run a tight ship as the captain of the Titanic was, so the pair of us are grateful that you have given us a chance to compete on a show far away from those cowardly, angry apes…although if I were you I would certainly keep an eye on Owen Gonsalves, he has a temper on him and has a bad habit of trying to interject himself into things that do not involve him.

Bisley somehow manages not to smirk at his casually dropping Gonsalves in it as he continues

Mark Bisley: Although if I may add, you almost look surprised that you have people coming in here to thank you for actually doing something that would benefit them.  Is it really so unusual for that to happen?  I mean, I would assume The New Murder are an ungrateful bunch, but other than that shouldn’t people have some respect for their General Manager?

Realising what he just said, Bisley is quick to raise a hand and admit fault on that last part

Mark Bisley: Of course, you’re not our General Manager, our draft rights are still open to whoever is interested.  We wouldn’t dare assume such things.

Shintaro Majima: Clearly.

Macdonald is caught off guard by Majima’s interjection, which allows Bisley to control the conversation once more

Mark Bisley: Naturally I am sure that Ms. Herrera will be watching our match this evening, and I am sure you will understand this means we would have to be putting in our best efforts to make sure we are victorious, as that would fit our billing.  So we also came here to clarify that we do not mean any disrespect to you or your brand if we make the Firing Squad, Luke and Ymir, look a level below us in ability during our match.  I am sure the pair of them will be able to rebound from one setback that affected them early in their careers, as the two certainly seem to have a lot of potential, but this evening we will have to be capitalists rather than socialists and focus solely on ourselves and our needs.  

Brandon Macdonald: Your…needs?

Shintaro Majima: Victory, Macdonald-san.  Something that certain people on the other brand refuse to give us credit for, or wish to stand in the way of what is inevitable.

Rather than follow up, Bisley merely gestures in Majima’s direction in a “What he said” sort of way, as Majima’s summary was damn near perfect

Shintaro Majima: I hope that we do not dishearten our opponents for this evening.  I would rather we gave them incentive to try harder, to improve to the point they would challenge us another time in the future to see how much better they have become, to have a goal and an incentive to meet it.

Mark Bisley: …and in the process help you and your brand, as that rematch would certainly appeal more than another round of Angry Man Shouts At Smart Style For Ten Minutes.

While it seems Bisley was cracking a joke, by the look on Majima’s face he didn’t particularly appreciate what he said having a less than honourable suffix attached to it, something Bisley is quick to correct

Mark Bisley: And, of course, if a team is determined to prove they can hang with us, that gives us reason to improve to stay one step ahead of them.  It’s win-win, as you have two teams pushing themselves to make your show better – and, of course, as both teams feature competitors who operate as solo performers, there are so many ways your show could be improved.

Majima appears to appreciate Bisley staying on message, while Macdonald merely looks flummoxed at the scene playing out before him

Mark Bisley: But we’ve taken up far too much of your time, and I’m sure you’re a busy man – just as we should get busy preparing for our match later this evening.  So I guess we should thank you for your time and let you get back to whichever important tasks you have that need doing, as I’m sure that we’ll see you soon Mister Macdonald.

Having said his piece, Bisley wastes no time turning on his heels and walking out of Macdonald’s office with the exact same brisk yet confident stride that he had when he walked in, meanwhile Majima offers a short nod to thank Macdonald for his time before he too turns and walks out of the office

With his office now clear, Macdonald watches the door close before he feels safe enough to sit back and relax once more, taking another sip of his coffee – but now it’s not as hot as it was, and as a result nowhere near as satisfying.