aCe: A Dimension Divided...

[Vanimal]

I'm really looking forward to 2121. New blood is always exciting but the guys who started it all will have the most to gain and lose coming up.

It's been great fun and there is loads more on the way, thanks for the kind words and following along, time to get to Ultimatum!

[Vanimal]

Centra Prime
-Battlefield Tournament A.K.A The Longest Day-

01.05.2121 from Centra Prime (Various Locations)

- Schedule Change -

Due to the agreement that 2121 will be the last year for aCe, each planet will get two shows for the year putting the total number of cards to 24 (up from 18)

- Prepare the Battlefield... -

It was decided late in 2120 to add a new championship.
With the number of teams growing in aCe it only made sense to make the belt a faction title. A tournament was set up for the first card of the year with these rules: 

1st Round will be contested under Survivor Rules 

2nd Round will be contested under Battlezone Rules 

Finals will take place in the very first Caged Battlefield match 

Tabula Rosa opted out of the tournament, Nicodemus saying the only titles he's concerned about are the essence titles. The Ravagers decided to sit out the tournament as a result, to the dismay of Nemean. The tournament will take place at various locations across Centra Prime in a single day. 

The title itself looks like a weapon - 

An ammunition belt lined with red tipped silver bullets 

The side plates (logos/banners of each of the ten teams) are riveted on to the ammunition belt 

The title plate is relatively small by the standards of the aCe 

(about the size of the WWE Cruiserweight title) that says aCe Battlefield champions with various weapons in background. 

The title sits at the Palladium waiting for the team that survives the day. 

- Location -

Hateful Basterds Saloon, Westland Province 265 

A saloon straight out of an old western hosted the first match of the tournament. 

The ring sits in the middle of a wooden floor, saloon patrons watch from poker tables, the bar and from the second floor, women of questionable practices surrounding. Esperanto feels right at home with these rough and gruff gunslingers!

- Survivor Match -

Esperanto and Hustler and Scorch vs. Godsend and Hellraisers

Darkseed defeated Scorch with BELLY OF THE BEAST at 30:18

Match Rating: 4.25

Order of Eliminations

No pin falls for the first 15 minutes until Nightmare sprays a mist in the eyes of Hustler then hits Spear of Shadows. 

Hustler is eliminated. 

Esperanto breaks a bottle of Elixir over Godsend's head and follows up with DEAD MAN'S HAND (top rope double ax handle to the back of the head) 

Godsend is eliminated. 

Nightmare hits MINDBENDER but Esperanto kicks out. Darkseed tags in and squashes him with BELLY OF THE BEAST 

Esperanto is eliminated. 

Scorch misses the blind tag planting Nightmare with a Centra Spinebuster. Darkseed climbs the top rope, jumps off with BELLY OF THE BEAST squashing Scorch and his partner for the win.

*

- Location -

The Rose Garden, Tarkania, Centra Prime 15,555

We return to the Rose Garden for the first time since the start of last year. Avarice gets welcomed like a conquering hero but it pales in comparison to the ovation Aegis receives. This visibly upsets the Blackheart.

- Survivor  Match -

Aegis, Aspin Northstar, and Avarice vs. General Rankor and Shock Syndicate

Avarice defeated Flatliner with  7TH SIN at 19:23

Match Rating: 3.50

Order of Eliminations 

Avarice owns his former boss eventually taking him out with the move that one him the aCe heavyweight title-a swinging neck snap. 

General Rankor is eliminated. 

Flatliner hits SHOCK AND AWE on Aspin Northstar but can't put him away. Holocaust comes in to finish the job but gets shocked by a sunset flip and is gone. 

Holocaust is eliminated. 

Flatliner works over Northstar again until he misses a running knee. The Blackheart tags in and immediately strikes with a swinging neck snap and 7TH SIN for the win. 

Interesting enough Aegis only tags in for about a minute of action, possibly still nursing injuries. 

*

- Location -

Centrapolis City Prison Yard, N/A

A bare-bones ring was set up in the recreation area of Centrapolis City Prison. Convicts kept watch and did patrols with the hostages weapons, wearing the hostages uniforms over their own jumpsuits. The hostages look to be kept in the tower, infamously known as the House of Pain.

- Survivor Match -

Mr. Bloat and Sycophant and Master vs. Paganax and Darkness Falls

Paganax defeated Mr. Bloat with a Roaring Elbow at 31:06

Match Rating: 3.25

Order of Eliminations 

Krypt passes out from the loss of blood (slashed twice from RED DAWN) and loss of air in THE TOURNIQUET. 

Krypt is eliminated. 

Paganax is still on the warpath eliminating The Deviant when he taps to the Face Smothering. 
Sycophant is eliminated.

PainMaster is next going down to PAGAN VOID. 
PainMaster is eliminated.

Mr. Bloat has his way with the Heathen Chief every time he's in the ring even drawing blood from the big man. He wears down Paganax by throwing him into an exposed turnbuckle two times, a second away from the win. The third time isn't the charm, Paganax moves and Mr. Bloat eats steel getting dropped with a Roaring Elbow. 

*

- Location -

Southern Sun Memorial Hall Centrapolis, Centra Prime 7,420 

The last match of the first round is held at Southern Sun. Fans are in awe as the Arch Angels start in the rafters in opposite sides of the arena and glide to the ring swirling down landing perfectly on opposing turnbuckles.

- Survivor Match -

Shepard and The Archangels vs. Murdok and Zombie Nation

Shepard defeated Murdok with a Count Out at 10:12

Match Rating: 2.50

Order of Eliminations 

The bell rings and Noxious lumbers over to Shepard who immediately throws Antivirus blinding the former Meteor. Shepard rolls him up and gets the pin. 

Noxious is eliminated. 

Rotwurm is in next and Shepard can't bring himself to go full throttle with his former friend. All three members of the Cathedral see action. Rotwurm even survives JUDGEMENT DAY but falls to the Turnbuckle Tabernacle . 

Rotwurm is eliminated. 

Murdok snarls at Shepard before jumping off the apron and heading to the back, getting counted out.

*

- Location -

Hateful Basterds Saloon, Westland Province 265

After the first round matches were complete one team was beamed to another arena seeing who their next opponents would be. They receive five minutes to come up with a strategy before the Battlezone starts

- Battlezone Match -

Avarice, Aspin Northstar, and Aegis vs. Godsend and Hellraisers

Avarice defeated Darkseed with 7TH SIN at 42:12

Match Rating: 4.00

Order of Eliminations 

Aspin Northstar holds his own with an angry Godsend (still mad about the bottle of Elixir broken on his head) until Godsend escapes a NORTHERN STAR SUPLEX and locks on HELL'S THRESHOLD. 

Aspin Northstar is eliminated. 

Avarice is out next and takes it to Godsend. Godsend rolls out to catch his breath but the Blackheart follows. Godsend pokes him in the eye then powerbombs him through a poker table! The ref warns him to stop but does it again drawing the DQ. 

Godsend is eliminated. 

Nightmare is out next continuing the beating to the champion. Avarice makes a comeback and pins Nightmare after consecutive 7TH SIN's. 

Nightmare is eliminated. 

Avarice takes a pounding from Darkseed but will not be beat edging by with another 7TH SIN.

*

- Location -

Southern Sun Memorial Hall Centrapolis, Centra Prime 7,420 

Paganax and Darkness Falls are transported to Southern Sun. The Harvester is more than annoyed to see their opponents aren't The Judas Syndicate.

- Battlezone Match -

Darkness Falls and Paganax vs. Shepard and The Archangels

Paganax defeated Shepard with PAGAN VOID at 14:01

Match Rating: 3.00

Order of Eliminations 

The match starts off slow but once the eliminations started they came fast and often! 

Krypt gets introduced to ELYSIUM'S CHARGE (Springboard gliding flying forearm) by Gabriel and can't get up before the three. 

Krypt is eliminated. 

Jaykll flies like a bat out of hell to the ring and Darkness Falls Hit'em High and Hit'em Low. The ref is trying to get Krypt to leave but not before the duo strike with RED DAWN! Possibly intimidated by the former tag champs the ref makes the three count! 

Gabriel is eliminated. 

Exodus runs out and flies to the top turnbuckle jumping off with a top rope leg drop to a standing Jakyll! Heavenly Barrage and WRATH OF GOD end Jakyll's match. 

Jakyll is eliminated. 

Paganax runs in and destroys Exodus with Primal Scream. A face-lock slam and PAGAN VOID and Exodus is gone! 

Exodus is Eliminated. 

Shepard and Paganax go at each other hard, more out of respect than hatred. The Vagabond Priest is no match for PAGAN VOID and it's over!

*

- Location -

Abandoned ROC Barracks, Tarkania 

A ring sits in the middle of the former ROC Barracks, untouched since the infamous attack of Murdok on the day ROC were scouting new recruits. Both teams were beamed there at the same time. Paganax went from annoyed to down right angry when he realized he wouldn't get a chance at Rankor.

- Caged Battlefield Match -
aCe Battlefield Title

Aegis, Avarice, and Aspin Northstar vs. Darkness Falls and Paganax

Paganax defeated Avarice with a Roaring Elbow at 25:10

Match Rating: 4.75

Aspin Northstar and Jakyll start the match off. The ROC won the coin flip so the next man in will be theirs. Aspin and Jakyll go back and forth until Northstar hits double roundhouse kicks. He climbs the cage and jumps off with a twisting crossbody. 

Avarice is in the cage. 

The champ is in and he tags it to Jakyll whipping him into all for sides of the cage 

Krypt is in the cage. 

Krypt runs in and blasts Avarice with a right hook. Darkness Falls take him down with Hit'em High/Hit'em Low. They proceed to return the favor, throwing the Blackheart into all four sides of the cage and he's bleeding profusely. 

Aegis is in the cage. 

Aegis takes out Jakyll and Krypt with double clotheslines. He is favoring his injured leg but manages to draw blood, grinding Krypt into the cage wall. 

Paganax is in the cage. 

Paganax takes Aegis down with a chop block to his injured leg and he screams in pain. All six men fight their hearts out for a time with no eliminations until Aegis falls to Paganax with a guillotine lariat. 

Aegis is eliminated. 

Aspin takes a run at the Chief but gets caught in a bearhug backbreaker and has to tap. 
Aspin Northstar is eliminated.

Paganax tells Darkness Falls to let him finish this and it's him and Avarice one on one! He starts with a Primal Scream almost taking off the champions head. Paganax manhandles Avarice until a missed Lava Drop turns the favor in the Blackheart's favor. Suddenly Krypt blindsides Avarice and throws him into the cage. Paganax capitalizes with Primal Scream and a roaring elbow and it's over! Paganax grabs the aCe title and drapes it over Avarice. Leaning down Paganax says "the only reason you are champion, is because I let you!"

Overall Card Rating: 3.61

[Pariah]

Not only did Paganax lead his tribe to the Battlefield Championship - He did it by putting down all three members of the ROC team in the final... Including the current aCe Champion, Avarice... Very bold statement by the Heathen Chief...

Thoroughly enjoyed this unique tournament... I've always found faction titles a little difficult to manage, but it looks like you're definitely on the right track with this one... Awesome work!

[Vanimal]

Paganax was unstoppable in this tournament. Any time an opponent was on offense they maybe got one move in before Paganax turned it in his favor. Avarice won't be happy about the end, him and Paganax may be at it sooner than later.

The Battlefield title will be a hot one! I plan on singles, tag, and 6 mans for defenses and it will most likely be defended EVERY show.

[Vanimal]

Crisis

01.27.2121 from Centra Palladium Centrapolis, Centra Prime 45,640

- The Nemean Show -

Nemean stands in the center of the ring with the pedestal that holds the aCe Battlefield Championship. The fans are chanting "welcome back!" and Nemean is soaking it up.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I am Nemean and this is the return of THE NEMEAN SHOW!!!" 

(huge pop) 

"Tonight I have the distinct honor of awarding the aCe Battlefield title to The Tribesmen of Primus! They went through hell to win these and - even though I unfairly wasn't able to compete to win them- absolutely deserve them! So without further ado, you're first aCe Battlefield Champions...Paganax and Darkness Falls!" 

The champions make wearily their way to the ring. Nemean grabs the belt to strap it on Paganax when Krypt and Jaykll hiss at him. He gives them the belt and they secure it on their Chief. 

Nemean tries to ask a question. 

"Paganax, everyone has heard the ghastly stories of what happened to you on Primus, would you like to set the record straight here tonight?" 

Paganax slowly looked down at the Ravager. 

"No talking. I want Rankor. Now!" 

The crowd cheers at this but that quickly turns to boos when Mr. Bloat waddles out of the back. Slowly he makes his way to the ring and grabs a mic. 

"I beat you to a pulp, Paganax. I softened you up in all the right places, Paganax. You would have been my next victim, Paganax, hadn't it been for that faulty turnbuckle!" 

"Didn't you untie the pad and throw it away? Seems like your fault there, Bloaty." 

Nemean seemed to be talking without thinking but stopped when Mr. Bloat pulled out his razor fork shooting him a look. 

"You should be on a plate under my fork, Paganax, not in this ring! I challenge you, Paganax, and in the end you'll be where you belong!" 

The Heathen Chief didn't move or blink, he just grinned out the side of his mouth and unfastened his newly won belt, letting it hit the ring.

- aCe Battlefield -

Paganax vs. Mr. Bloat

Mr. Bloat defeated Paganax by Disqualification at 10:02

Match Rating: 3.00

Once again Mr. Bloat gave the Heathen Chief a fight, both men throwing the rule book out the window. The ref looked away as much as he could, but the Lava King's continued chair shots to Mr. Bloat outside the ring had him call for the bell. 

Paganax didn't stop until he heard the dastardly voice of Rankor on the Holotron, from the safety of his ship. 

"Oh poor poor Paganax. Did you think I'd just give you what you wanted? Like I'd show up tonight??? 

I'd like to think you're smarter than that.
I won't make you wait long though. Next month, in front of whats left of your followers, me and you will do battle. 

How is it going to feel losing in front of them? 

To show them their mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, wives, husbands, little tribelin's, died for NOTHING? 

Before that, I invite you to Syndicate Headquarters to see the FUTURE of Primus. Me and Shock Syndicate versus you and Darkness Falls. What do you say?" 

That sick grin appeared once again on the Heathen Chief's face.

Zombie Nation vs. Hustler and Scorch

Scorch defeated Rotwurm with SPECIAL FORCES at 4:16

Match Rating: 1.00

Hustler was reluctant to fight Rotwurm at first giving the former Rouser the early advantage. He quickly got over that hitting a curb stomp that almost took off the top of Rotwurm's head.
Scorch comes in and doesn't waste time hitting huge clubs to the head and then SPECIAL FORCES for the win.
With this win, Hustler and Scorch will receive a tag title shot.

- Heavy is the Head -

Aegis sits watching Avarice pace angrily back and forth in the locker room.

"I'm only champion because HE lets me?!! Who the hell does he think he is???" 

Avarice clinched the heavyweight belt close on his shoulder. 

"I want him, Aegis! I want him in the ring! If he thinks I'm a paper champion he's got another thing coming!"

Aegis stood up and tried to calm down his teammate.

"Look, you won't have to worry about Paganax if you don't get by Murdok tonight. He has nothing left to lose which makes him more dangerous than ever. Godsend is looking for a shot as well and it's a matter of time before Nicodemus comes for the title. Besides we're all on the same side here! It was a heat of the moment comment."

This did not calm the Blackheart down.

"This wouldn't be an issue if I had help in the Battlefield tournament! I carried this team on my back! Make sure next time you step in the ring you're ready to go Aegis, I don't want to be embarrassed like that again!"

Shepard vs. Gheist

Shepard defeated Gheist with Silver Bullet at 7:00

Match Rating: 3.00

A technical match that saw a lot of counters and and one upmanship in the beginning. Both men traded offensive maneuvers early on until stiff elbows from Shepard rocked Gheist throwing him off his game plan. The Vagabond Priest puts the Spiritual Assassin away with a pair of Silver Bullets ( a running dropkick that send the opponent flying into the turnbuckle). Shepard moves up in the rankings and looks to reclaim the title that was once his.

The Archangels vs. Hellraisers

Nightmare defeated Gabriel with MINDBENDER at 1:34

Match Rating: 0.10

Gabriel tries to surprise Nightmare with a short clothesline but he ducks and blast the angel with mist blinding him. He rolls him up for a one count but quickly drops Gabriel with a MINDBENDER. He kicks out at two but Nightmare hits it again! Once again Gabriel kicks out! Nightmare hits a third MINDBENDER and Exodus can see the writing on the wall. He goes to interfere but gets blasted by Darkseed. The crowd is deflated at how fast this is over.

- Eye for an Eye -

PainMaster breaks into the live feed of the show with a handheld camera. He and Sycophant are in his House of Pain, hostages bound and gagged behind him. Not saying a word he grabs a hostage and throws him on the ground. S & M proceed to put the boots to him just like the Regulators at Ultimatum. Turning the camera on himself PainMaster spoke. 

"Did you think your act of aggression would stand? Did you think I'd get scared and release them? Fools! For every "beatdown" you try to dish out to me outside of that ring, I will repay on them ten-fold!" Sycophant took his cue and grabbed the hostages finger snapping it back breaking it.
"You have been warned!"

The Others vs. NuBorn Destruction

Warfare defeated Odyssey with EXTINCTION LEVEL EVENT at 20:13

Match Rating: 4.00

The Ravager Civil War starts off with a bang! Omni and Tekaro try posturing with striking then letting their opponent take their best shot. This would be the ebb and flow of the match (a highlight being Odyssey showing power, hitting three rolling bridge suplexes on Warfare) as these four men try to show who they are and why they fight for what they fight for.
NuBorn Destruction come away with the win with E.L.E. This tag feud will be one for the ages.

Nicodemus vs. Nemean

Nicodemus defeated Nemean with NUCLEAR WINTER at 5:36

Match Rating: 1.25

The Ancient takes the blonde "traitor" to task. Nicodemus is methodical in taking apart Nemean, working over the whole body with Commander Clotheslines, aCe Crushers, and several spinebusters. At one point Nicodemus slaps Nemean several times saying I'm waited a long time for this.
He ends it with an explosive NUCLEAR WINTER. 

Interesting side note - This match was heavily edited for The Mothership, showing Nicodemus winning in 1:24.

Ventross vs. Hybrid

Hybrid defeated Ventross with POISON DRIVER at 7:05

Match Rating: 2.75

Tabula Rosa make it a full sweep! Ventross gets a heroes welcome from the fans, but that can't stop the carnage of Hybrid. The match started out in the favor of Ventross, but Hybrid was on another level tonight, hitting every move in his arsenal. The beginning of the end came with a piledriver through a table outside the ring before the POISON DRIVER.

- One Drink Before I Go... -

Esperanto sat with a bottle of Elixir. He watched the video feed of House of Pain beating the hostage over and over, the bottle of Elixir getting lower and lower.
Hustler and Scorch found him and tried to intervene. 

"We knew there would be blow back to what we did, sir." Scorch lit a cigar.

"This ain't a shock what they did, we still gotta hit back harder!" said Hustler lighting his own.

"It's different when you see it infronayou an you know it's yer fault, boys."
Esperanto tries to spit tobacco in his spittoon but it ends up on his shirt.

"Look, what just happened is horrible, but we'll deal with that in due time! Right now, you got a pissed off demon wanting a match because you broke a bottle over his head! Last thing we need is you under his control."

Scorch's words rang true. Esperanto took one last swig of Elixir and headed to the ring.

Godsend vs. Esperanto

Esperanto defeated Godsend with DEAD MAN'S HAND at 7:17

Match Rating: 3.00

Esperanto staggered to the ring, bottle of Elixir in hand. Godsend couldn't help but smile thinking this would be an easy win for him. The match went Godsend's way early on, almost getting the win with SPEAK OF THE DEVIL. Esperanto was in trouble until he countered a side slam into The Painkiller. He floored Godsend with crooked arm lariats and then smashed the bottle of Elixir over the Serpents head knocking him out cold! For insurance he hit DEAD MAN'S HAND and gets what most will consider an upset win!

- aCe Tag Team Championship -

Shock Syndicate vs. Light Brigade

This match ended in a draw (Double Disqualification) at 25:28

Match Rating: 3.75

Light Brigade come out to a huge ovation. Lance waves to the crowd after a long "welcome back!" chant but after that he's all business. He sets the tone of interference early on, attacking Flatliner after SHOCK AND AWE throwing fists of rage. Lance takes control of the match until Holocaust comes in putting him down with Shock to the System. Holocaust looks to end it but SHOCK WAVE backfires! Lance comes roaring back with MARS MANHANDLER but Holocaust kicks out. At-Las stays on him locking in WANDERER'S CLUTCH. Flatliner goes to break up the pin but Aspin Northstar stops him and tosses him outside. Holocaust gets to the ropes but he gets hit with an awe-inspiring FLASH OF BRILLIANCE by a freshly tagged Northstar. Flatliner once again breaks up the pin and all four men go at it. The ref can't keep control and calls for the bell. This one isn't over.

- aCe Championship -

Avarice vs. Murdok

Avarice defeated Murdok with a Power of Greed at 24:04

Match Rating: 3.50

Although he lost his Holy War and got counted out in the Battlefield Tournamnet, Murdok has been dominate in singles action and receives a title shot. He desperately needs the title to rebuild his army and prove to his remaining followers that he is still their rightful king.
Avarice came into the match with a chip on his shoulder. The insulting face shove from Murdok did nothing but enrage the champion who takes it to Murdok with knees and cross face jabs. Murdok almost came away with this one several times, once after spearing the Blackheart through a barricade outside the ring. In the end it was a battle of endurance- Murdok goes for a vertical suplex but Avarice blocks and hits a swinging neck snap. The Blackheart follows up with Power of Greed for the win! Murdok is stunned as he stares into his hands contemplating his next move.

Avarice wins his 2nd defense

Overall Card Rating: 2.54

[Pariah]

Some great heat building between the aCe champion, Avarice, and the Heathen Chief... The two might be part of the same alliance, but at some point, Paganax is coming for that title... Looking forward to that collision...

Frustration continues to grow for Murdok... And I'm starting to wonder if maybe he can read the writing on the wall... As other antagonists (like Nicodemus and Godsend) are expanding their power base, things seem to be falling apart for the Harvester of the Plague...

Thoroughly enjoyed the premier installment of the Nemean Show as well... Very entertaining!

[Vanimal]

I'm really hoping Avarice retains long enough to get to him fighting Paganax for the strap. Th way his matches have been going that looks like it won't be a problem!

Murdok is lost in 2121, he's no longer the big bad and doesn't really have a team that screams impact. We'll see what he can do, if anything this year.

Thanks for the comments and encouragement, always appreciated!

[Vanimal]

Primus

02.12.2121 from "The Core" Syndicate Headquarters

- What We See -

With The Shock Syndicates hold on the essence tag titles growing stronger so does Syndicate Headquarters. The teams arrive at Syndicate HQ and walk into a white room with a single door. The door slides open to reveal an elevator with a single button pointing down. Each team gets in alone then followed the directions to their locker rooms. The underground arena could house around 5,000 but there were no living things in site. Syndicate HQ Arena was filled with eerie war machines of Rankor's design. The machines were either half built, damaged, or completed and would turn on at random points in the match making for a bone chilling scene.

Nemean vs. Hybrid

Hybrid defeated Nemean with POISON DRIVER at 6:54

Match Rating: 2.50

Nemean puts up a good fight and gets a few big moves in, but he is no match for the power of Hybrid. The Non-Believer tosses Nemean around like a rag doll before hitting POISON DRIVER three times in a row to end it.

Warfare vs. Ventross

Ventross defeated Warfare with MERCY KILLING at 11:15

Match Rating: 4.00

Mass Destruction explodes! These two mammoth beasts go at each other hard. Warfare starts by throwing clubbing fists rocking the Ravager. Ventross retaliates with a Vicious Onslaught that almost gets him a pin. The match spills outside the ring and Warfare chokeslams his former partner through the announcers table! He tosses Ventross back in the ring giving him a maniac beat down and hits a big shoulder block. Ventross tries fighting back with forearms but almost gets pinned after a tilt a whirl backbreaker. Warfare hits two WARHAMMERS but can't keep Ventross down. He locks in the WARLOCK but Ventross refuses to tap (rolled 4 times in a row!). Frustrated Warfare dumps Ventross over the top rope out of the hold. He follows outside the ring but Ventross blasts him in the face with part of the broken table. Back inside Ventross sets him up with Severed Ties before finishing it with MERCY KILLING. Awesome match.

The Others vs. Hellraisers

Omni defeated Darkseed with Timeline at 7:08

Match Rating: 3.00

The match is almost over before it starts when Nightmare hits a Dread Lariat out of nowhere on Odyssey. He follows that with Demon Dreamscape almost getting the pin a second time. Black Magic has Odyssey reeling but Duality is already achieved with Omni. Sensing the end is near, Nightmare tags in Darkseed who climbs the ropes for BELLY OF THE BEAST. In a burst of energy Odyssey gets up and jumps to the top rope hitting Darkseed with a Spanish Fly! Omni gets the hot tag and takes it to the Hellraisers. Odyssey gets some strength back and The Others hit Timeline for the upset! This doesn't sit well with Nightmare who runs in and attacks Omni. Darkseed comes to and takes out his frustration on Odyssey before leaving.

- Tag Team Turmoil -

After the controversial finish to their tag title match Light Brigade demanded they get another shot at the titles. Not everyone agreed. 

"You need to get yo a** to the back of the line! You had your chance, ya blew it, it's our turn!" 

Hustler was clear they were not stepping aside for nobody. 

A few days later when everyone was calmer, The Regulators and ROC came together to discuss this problem. 

"Light Brigade feel they deserve another shot at the titles.Their first opportunity was unfairly taken from them and the second, well no title match should end in a disqualification." Aegis said matter of factly. 

With his feet on the table, hands clasped behind his head Esperanto responded. 

"And my boys won their shot at the titles by going through teams and picking up wins, you want them to just give it up?" 

"They wouldn't have to give it up if we got our shot originally, cause we would have beat the Specialists!" Lance At-Las was getting heated. 

"Oh you think so?! You wouldn't have lasted five minutes with The Specialists!" yelled Scorch. 

Everyone was arguing talking over each other except for the youngest in the group. Finally Aspin spoke up. 

"ALRIGHT! This is ridiculous, I've teamed with most of you and consider you all friends. There is an easy solution. We fight. The better team goes on, the other team works harder. What do you say?" 

Everyone in the room thought about what the young man said then shook their head yes, shaking on it.

Mr. Bloat vs. Esperanto

Mr. Bloat defeated Esperanto with CRUEL AND UNUSUAL at 6:50

Match Rating: 2.25

Esperanto was in total control early on in the match not letting Mr. Bloat get a move in. Hair of the Dog (bootheel to the head) brought on The Painkiller which lead to High Noon Hangover putting Esperanto in position to win. With Bloat hanging over the rope, Esperanto grabbed a bottle of Elixir and broke it over his head. Bloat tumbled to the floor and the ref went to check on him. While the ref was distracted Godsend attacks with a chair to the back of Esperanto's head. He attacked unmercifully beating him to a pulp. All Bloat had to do was crawl in and lock on CRUEL AND UNUSUAL for the win. The Dominion make their mark tonight.

- No. 1 Contender Tag Titles -

Hustler and Scorch vs. Light Brigade

Lance At-Las defeated Hustler with MARS MANHANDLER at 16:44

Match Rating: 3.25

This was not a good night for The Regulators. At-Las and Hustler start the match off shaking hands. Lance would try to keep it a clean wrestling match but Hustler turns it into a fight real quick. Hustler and Scorch work over Northstar hitting him with SPECIAL FORCES twice, Aspin only escaping with the help of At-Las. Hustler hits a vicious curb jaw on Aspin and the end is in sight. It was at this time that an aCe official came to ringside and handed the ref a little box to give to Hustler. Hustler opened the box and his jaw dropped. During this time Aspin managed to tag Lance At-Las who took the opportunity to hit MARS MANHANDLER on Hustler sending the box and it's contents flying out of his hand. At-Las gets the win because Scorch didn't try to break it up, instead looking at the bloody finger that was in the box.

- No. 1 Contender -

Shepard vs. Nicodemus

Nicodemus defeated Shepard with an aCe Crusher at 3:11

Match Rating: 0.10

Nicodemus makes a statement with this win. Shepard tries to start off with a bang swinging with a spinning back fist but the Ancient blocks it hitting a heavy axe handle. A savatte kick sends Shepard into the ropes and the Vagabond Priest tries bouncing off but Nicodemus is ready with a Commander Clothesline. Wasting no time Nicodemus hits a pair of NUCLEAR WINTER's that Shepard kicks out of. Undeterred Nicodemus waits for Shepard to get to his feet and strikes with an aCe Crusher for the win.

- Are We Clear? -

Once again the show feed is broken into by members of House of Pain. PainMaster is holding a camera filming himself, blood spattered on his face. Sycophant stands behind him wearing a bloody apron torture tools in hand. A hostage lies on the floor writhing in pain. PainMaster speaks.

"Hustler and Scorch, did you get our little gift? See I don't think I made myself clear enough last time so I wanted to drive the point home! We'll see you soon, perhaps with more gifts!" 

- aCe Battlefield Title -

Darkness Falls and Paganax vs. Shock Syndicate and General Rankor

Paganax defeated Holocaust with PAGAN VOID at 2:19

Match Rating: 0.00

All the machines are alive and moving for this one! Paganax sends Darkness Falls to the ring apron making it clear he's starting the match. He paces waiting/hoping for Rankor to start the match for the Syndicate. Holocaust tries to surprise him with a super punch that he shrugs off going for a chop block. Holocaust counters with a missile shot and charges up for SHOCK WAVE. It backfires sending Holocaust reeling back. Paganax jumps up and hits PAGAN VOID. Flatliner comes in for the save but Darkness Falls meets him in the ring taking him down. Rankor hops off the ring apron and head to the back shaking his head mouthing "not yet". Paganax gets up on the second rope and  yells "there's no where else to run!"

Overall Card Rating: 2.16

[Mr. Beefy]

Go Paganax.

[Vanimal]

GROVEL

02.19.2121 from Mt. Ragnarok, Primus

- Demands and Outrage - 

Paganax demanded this show be called GROVEL in honor of the creature who gave his life for him. When no one argued with that he went a step further saying his match with Rankor deserved to go on last, due to Rankor's actions and the show taking place where he was betrayed. Again no one had a problem with this (Nicodemus said he could care less when his match was as long as he got his title shot.) until it reached the ears of the champion. Avarice was livid when he received the news from Aegis. 

"This is unacceptable! I am the aCe champion! The champion has ALWAYS gone on last! And now because some animals died we're going to acquiesce to his demands?!" 

Once again Aegis tried to calm his teammate down.
"His people where almost wiped out by YOUR former boss. We're just trying to keep the peace and keep him happy. He is an ally." 

"What about keeping me happy Aegis? You need me! I noticed your wife is getting better you think that happens without this?"
Avarice puts the title inches from the nose of Aegis. Aegis swallowed hard. It was all he could do to keep from choking the Blackheart.
"It's just one match, Avarice. That's all."
Avarice snapped back.
"Oh your damn right it's only one match! I want him Aegis! I want Paganax, win or lose we're doing this! 

- What We See - 

We're at the base of the formerly great Mt. Ragnarok. A ring sits in a crater on the side of Ragnarok with Jakyll's and Krypt's standing around at various spots looking down on the ring. They all stand perfectly still - Krypt's hoods up, Jakyll's arms crossed- silently watching the ring. 

Nemean vs. Gheist 

Gheist defeated Nemean with SOUL SLAYER at 2:26 

Match Rating: 1.50 

Gheist comes like a bat out of hell with a running dropkick sending Nemean flying back into the turnbuckle. He bounces back off the opposite turnbuckle with two more running dropkicks and digs in with Possessor's Edge. Nemean is able to kick out of a pin attempt but falls to SOUL SLAYER.  

In an uncharacteristic move, Gheist grabs a mic.  

"I am better than a bodyguard. I am better than this (points to Nemean). I am an Assassin and it's time you all found that out!" 

- Gauntlet Match - 

Shepard vs. Hybrid vs. Murdok vs. Ventross 

Shepard defeated Murdok with a Super Chop at 21:21 

Match Rating: 3.50 

2 men in this match are coming off wins and 2 men are coming off loses. Although a title match is not guaranteed with a win, it will definitely move that gentlemen closer to that ultimate goal..
Order was chosen at random.

Ventross vs Hybrid  

Ventross uses his momentum from his match with Warfare to get off to an early offense almost taking down the big man several times. He makes a mistake trying to take the fight outside the ring where Hybrid is more at home. Hybrid powerbombs Ventross through a slab of rock for the count out win at 8:02  

Hybrid vs Shepard  

Shepard takes a pounding and one has to wonder if singles competition is what the Vagabond Priest is built for. Hybrid repeatedly hits Downbursts before ragdolling Shepard out of the ring. Hybrid goes to push Shepard into the ring post but he counters with Sliced Bread #2! Throwing the Big Man back in Shepard hits EXORCISM (3) for the win at 5:14  

Shepard vs Murdok  

The Harvester comes in and immediately hits a powerbomb. Shepard fights back with the Turnbuckle Tabernacle and the two go back and forth hitting each other with everything they got. Shepard is able to throw the Anti Virus and Murdok screams blinded in pain. The Vagabond Priest climbs to the top and hits Murdok with a Super Chop almost breaking his hand in the process. Shepard gets the win! at 8:05 and proves the last match was a fluke! 

Darkness Falls vs. Zombie Nation 

Krypt defeated Rotwurm with RED DAWN at 11:21 

Match Rating: 3.50 

Darkness Falls win a back and forth battle with Zombie Nation. Krypt and Jakyll seem to be getting better at teaming together, getting their timing down on Hit'em High, Hit'em Low and executing RED DAWN expertly. This new version of Darkness Falls may be in line for a title shot soon. 

Aegis vs. Mr. Bloat 

Aegis defeated Mr. Bloat by Disqualification - Forehead Carving at 00:5 


The bell rings and Aegis goes to lock up with Mr. Bloat. Bloat has other ideas as he pulls out his razor fork and stabs Aegis in the forehead. The ref immediately calls for the bell saying this was violence for the sake of violence. Aegis falls to the mat in pain but Bloat is not done. He climbs on top of Aegis and starts carving his forehead blood spilling everywhere. The ref finally gets Bloat off and he turns to the camera.  

"We're not done, Paganax! Soon this will be YOUR fate, Paganax!" 

- Fatal 4 Way - 

Hellraisers vs. NuBorn Destruction vs. The Others vs. The Archangels 

Odyssey defeated Darkseed with a Hell's Gate (Triangle Choke) at 16:25 

Match Rating: 3.75 

 Order of Eliminations  

Archangels are eliminated when Tekaro tags himself in after Nightmare and Darkseed do all the hard work. He hits Exodus with RING OF DESTRUCTION and we're down to three.  

NuBorn Destruction get taken out next by The Others after CHRONOFLOW puts down Tekaro. Warfare tries to make the save but the Hellraisers stop him, still bitter about Tekaro's shenanigans earlier.  

The Others and Hellraisers have a great back and forth with quick tags before Demon Dreamscape puts Nightmare in the driver's seat. He hits Spear of Shadows and MINDBENDER but can't keep Odyssey down. Darkseed tags in and goes up top for BELLY OF THE BEAST. With amazing ring awareness, Odyssey kips up, jumps and catches Darkseed mid air with a triangle choke! Darkseed can do nothing but tap out and The Others are number one contenders! 

- What's in the box?! - 

Sycophant and Master make their way to the ring for their match with Hustler and Scorch. PainMaster carries a cardboard box in his hands that is leaking from one corner. He puts it in their corner where the box continues to leak a dark red. The box is crudely wrapped with a bow with a tag nailed in the top. The tag reads  

To- ScorcH and HustleR 

FroM- S & M

Hustler and Scorch vs. Sycophant and Master 

Hustler defeated Sycophant the Deviant with a PISTOL WHIP at 12:00 

Match Rating: 4.00 

An excellent tag match that could have seen each of the four men get the win at certain junctures of the match. Hustler gets the pin after a PISTOL WHIP to Sycophant. PainMaster attempts the save but Scorch tosses him from the ring.  

After the match both men look at the box fearful of whats inside. Scorch goes to pick it up and Hustler unwraps the bow. When he opens the lid a a red thick liquid explodes on both men and then are temporarily blinded. S&M nail them from behind stomping both men. PainMaster uses his whip to choke out Scorch while Sycophant uses his straps to do the same to Hustler. The House of Pain walk out hands raised high as if they won the match. 

Godsend vs. Esperanto 

Godsend defeated Esperanto with HELL'S THRESHOLD at 8:20 

Match Rating: 3.00 

Godsend brings the fight to Esperanto immediately, not taking him lightly after their last encounter. Godsend locks in HELL'S THRESHOLD twice but Esperanto fights back throwing fists while taking swigs of Elixir. Godsend takes the hits before countering with a Super Backdrop and a HELL'S THRESHOLD for the win. 

- aCe Tag Team Championship - 

Shock Syndicate vs. Light Brigade 

 

Flatliner defeated Aspin Northstar with an Electro Shot at 8:49 

Match Rating: 2.25 

The match starts off on an even keel, with Lance At-Las and Flatliner trading offense back and forth. Things went south for the challengers when Aspin tried a suicide dive onto Holocaust but the man of WAR moved sending Northstar crashing to the floor. From there it was all Shock Syndicate, Flatliner alternated between Electro Shots and double arm DDT's (six in all) until the poor kid couldn't stand up. At-Las didn't even try to make the save, more concerned with his partners well being than the titles. 

- aCe Championship - 

Avarice vs. Nicodemus 

Avarice defeated Nicodemus with 7TH SIN at 8:12 

Match Rating: 3.00 

Avarice explodes early on taking the fight to Nicodemus hard and fast. The Ravager leader couldn't get a move in other than the occasional slap or elbow to the head. The Blackheart was angry and it showed resorting to repeated stomps and cross face jabs rather than the finesse we've come to expect. Nicodemus was able to slow it down mid-match but that wasn't enough to get the job done. Avarice stood with his title held above the ring yelling "I'm the champ!" as the primitive fans hissed at him. 

Avarice wins his 3rd title defense

- Taking No Chances - 

Rankor came to the ring flanked by the tag team champions, The Shock Syndicate. They created an electro-magnetic force field around themselves and their boss making the rocks and stones thrown by the Krypts and Jakyll's in attendance disintegrate on impact. Holocaust stood on a boulder at one turnbuckle facing outward while Flatliner did the same at the post across from him. They expanded their electric force field even greater making sure no one would interfere. 

- aCe Battlefield Title -

Paganax vs. General Rankor 

Paganax defeated General Rankor with PAGAN VOID at 4:19 

Match Rating: 3.25 

A brutal hard hitting match. Paganax did everything he could to decapitate the traitor known as Rankor. The Mad Designer was able to get off a Sub-Atomic Drop at the start but from there he was punished with Primal Scream's and guillotine lariats. After four minutes of punishment he ended it with PAGAN VOID.


As the bell rung Darkness Falls climbed out from under the ring. Unbeknownst to the Shock Syndicate, the former tag champs dug their way under the ring and popped out after the match with a sword! Handing it to the Heathen Chief he held it high above his head as his followers went crazy. Standing over Rankor he gripped the sword blade pointed at the General's heart. Screaming to the heavens, he brought it high and plunged it down narrowly missing the Ravager who rolled at the nick of time. The scream got the attention of Shock Syndicate who ran to their boss and pulled him to safety. Paganax stood angrily in the ring yelling "This isn't over!" 

Overall Card Rating: 3.08.