Apple Kid: Welcome to another week of EBW on X! It's the fastest growing presence on social media! Who needs television! We have the world watching us right here on X, and I would personally like to thank X's new owners the Geist Corporation for hosting us and allowing us to be unrestricted, as we rebuild EBW into the global force it deserves to be, without all that..."havoc" weighing us down? 

Larry Grim: Of course we don't want to spend all of our time talking badly about the competition, especially when we're trying to build up our big shows. That would be extremely counter productive. Who would do such a thing? We have to be ALL IN on EBW, and not be mentioning other stuff. 

Apple Kid: Great point, skeleton friend! We don't need to mention them anyways, because some contracts came up and WE snapped them up, PLUS we have the E1 Climax ahead of us! We had a lot of the top stars wanting a shot at the most prestigious tournament in wrestling, but it's a smaller field this year, and we ended up with an elite list. Would you like to see who we've got? Let's take a look!

Block A
-------

Trevor Mach
Kinniku Mike
Tack Angel
Benjamin

Block B
-------

Bashin Dan 
Zyro Kurogane
Jammer
Vargas Wargrave

Larry Grim: That's a stacked E1 Climax! It's an elite class, including the EBW Champion, who managed to defend the championship against Trevor Mach...with help from The Auditor. 

Apple Kid: But if you look at the line up, we have some amazing match ups coming your way on the E1 Climax Tour! We'll be traveling to Hanta City, Arcadia City, Metro City, and Avalon City. So many cities! You're not going to want to miss these shows, but we have some great match ups for you tonight. In fact, I'm need some confirmation on this one. Are we really doing this? 

Larry Grim: Yes we are, Apple friend. It's time to rebuild a women's division. This was a big goal for the bosses, especially Tali, who wants to keep the legacy alive that Master Lu helped build with capable and confident women talent mixing it up in the EBW ring! Darkness Aoi is here, not just as a manager for BDSM. She wants a piece of the act-



Darkness Aoi: Action. Absolutely. I'm hungry. I want some competition! I want to hurt some people! I want to stake my claim as the one to defeat in EBW, and no one you can put up against me will be able to match u-



Christy Angel: ARE YOU SURE ABOUT THAT?

Darkness Aoi: Wha?

Apple Kid: Christy Angel! She's the Super Champion! What is she doing here? 

Larry Grim: She has signed a brand new contract with EBW! 

Apple Kid: Unreal! But wait...does that mean-

Alison Chains: *licks Apple Kid* 

Apple Kid: AH! 

Alison Chains: You don't taste like apple at all! 

Apple Kid: Apple cider vinegar...I'm...told I taste like apple cid-

Alison Chains: Neat! Don't care! Christy! We going to beat Aoi's ass now?! 

Tack Angel: Whoa! Hold on! Wait a minute! What's going on here?! Christy?! Daughter!?



Tack Angel: What are you doing in EBW? I thought you were-

Christy Angel: Super Champion? I was. I was the Super Champion. I did what even Christina hadn't done. I beat Hope and I became the Super Champion. The problem? It wasn't the EBW Super Championship any more. I wanted to be seen as someone who truly did something more than just gaming and goon- goofing around. To me, that's being a champion of EBW. So the first chance I got, I signed with Tali and Mac, and I tossed that Super Championship in the trash! EBW's got the Gamer Girlz full time! We're back! You want to wrestle, bitch? Let's wrestle! 

Alison Chains: Yeah! Let's wrestle! 

Christy Angel: No, I'M going to wrestle. 

Alison Chains: Oh! Right. Proceeeeeed.

EBW on X
EBW Studio, Onett
X 

1. Women's Singles: Darkness Aoi vs. Christy Angel
-Darkness Aoi entered the match with her usual confidence, clearly treating Christy Angel as little more than another name standing between BDSM and complete control of EBW. Christy had other ideas with her shocking arrival to the new EBW. The opening exchange caught Aoi completely off guard as Christy matched her speed, slipped out of a wristlock, and sent the BDSM co-leader stumbling through the ropes with a sharp dropkick. Aoi landed on her feet outside and immediately looked furious that Christy had managed to embarrass her.

Christy kept the pressure on whenever Aoi returned, scoring with a quick arm drag and nearly stealing the match with a sudden cradle. Aoi kicked out and rolled outside again, pacing around ringside while Christy motioned for her to come back. After several seconds, Aoi climbed onto the apron as though she intended to continue, only for Christy to rush her and force her to drop back to the floor.

That was apparently enough for Darkness Aoi. She stared at Christy, looked toward the referee, and simply threw her hands into the air. With the count climbing, Aoi turned around and started walking toward the back. Christy seemed almost confused at first before realizing exactly what was happening. The referee reached ten as Aoi disappeared through the curtain, handing Christy Angel an unexpected but completely legitimate victory over one of EBW's most dangerous competitors.
Winner: Christy Angel via Count Out! 

Apple Kid: Christy wins! Darkness Aoi just gave up! She just left! 

Larry Grim: She's not happy that she was surprised by Christy's arrival! 

Apple Kid: She likes to have everything figured out, but how can you do that when a girl is willing to throw away the Super Championship to make the jump to the NEW EBW!? 

Larry Grim: Well, I'm being told right now that the Gamer Girlz will officially be on the E1 Climax Tour, as BDSM is calling up Sharkette to provide opposition in Hanta City. In fact, I have the whole card for the first show, and we're going to reveal it....RIGHT NOW!

EBW: E1 Climax Tour
Geist Arena, Hanta City

1. Women's Singles: Christy Angel vs. Sharkette 
2. E1 Climax Block A: Benjamin vs. Kinniku Mike
3. E1 Climax Block B: Bashin Dan vs. Zyro Kurogane
4. E1 Climax Block B: Jammer vs. Vargas Wargrave 
5. EBW Tag Team Championship: Java Coffington(c)/Grind(c) vs. Snakebite/Harrow
6. E1 Climax Block A: Trevor Mach vs. Tack Angel

Larry Grim: No, your eyes are not deceiving you. Trevor Mach versus Tack Angel will headline the show in Hanta City. We're starting off with a mammoth main event for the E1 Climax Tour! 

Apple Kid: Wow! The whole show looks amazing. You have to wonder how Tack feels about that? Let's find out



Tick: I'm Tick! 

Tock: I'm Tock! 

Tack Angel: Uh...I'm Tack?

Tick, Tock, and Tack: Like a clock! 

Tack Angel: Whoa, how did I know to do that? 

Tick: Tack!

Tack Angel: Yes, I'm Tack. 

Tock: It's amazing we've never been in a room like this before! 

Tack Angel: Indeed. *looks at the camera* Twins. *wink* 

Tick: You have a lot going on, it is understandable if you don't have time to talk to us about it, but if you want to stick around and build clocks with us, we could-

Tack Angel: No, I've got the situation well in hand. Daughter, you made a bold choice. We're not going to drag this out. I'm happy to see you. With Makoto in semi-retirement for now and Christina raising her child, you and I are the Angel representatives. You made a choice, now let's see you play it out. I have issues with some of the things going on in the new EBW, but one of those things isn't Trevor Mach. Friendship has always trumped ideologies or arguments. He's my friend, but that doesn't mean I'm not going to try my best to go through him on my way to Kinniku Mike. He picked a fight with the Star Prince. It's about time I remind everyone about the year where that was considered a horrible idea. Yeah, it got ugly, but I have the fight in me, and I have that confidence in me, and I have the ability to rebuild an empire if I choose, and if Mike wants to become a victim of that, I'll oblige him. This time, I've got a clear head. I see the path ahead of me. I know what I'm doing, and I have a plan. I'm leaning into the joke...as it were. 

Tock: Leaning into the joke? What do you mean?

Tack Angel: You'll find out.

-

Larry Grim: A very Tack Angel centric episode today 

Apple Kid: Popular guy. Controversial too. Could he be going back to his old ways? The 5-Crown King who built an empire? 

Larry Grim: I don't know about that, but I do know his match with Kinniku Mike will be the main event for the next match on the E1 Climax Tour. Let's take a look at THAT card!

EBW: E1 Climax Tour
Clockwork Colosseum, Arcadia City

1. 6-Man Tag: Magnum PT/Point Man/? vs. Daimon Kuro/Shark #1/Shark #2
2. E1 Climax Block A: Benjamin vs. Trevor Mach
3. E1 Climax Block B: Bashin Dan vs. Jammer
4. E1 Climax Block B: Zyro Kuroane vs. Vargas Wargrave 
5. Non-Title Singles: Ness vs. Boomtown 
6. E1 Climax Block A: Tack Angel vs. Kinniku Mike

Apple Kid: Another stellar card! Wow! We're going all out for the E1 Climax! 

Larry Grim: We want to restore wrestling to Eagleland, not that stuff you're seeing from the other guys. This is the true elite giving you real entertainment, and you have to be there for it! Arcadia City, don't miss it! Next up, we have Dan Club in action, as they take on The Auditor's monsters in tag action! 

Apple Kid: Let's do this!

2. Tag: Bashin Dan/Benjamin vs. Harrow/Snakebite 
-Bashin Dan and Benjamin came into the match looking much more organized than Harrow and Snakebite expected. Benjamin took the early punishment from Snakebite but repeatedly frustrated the larger man by slipping free and making quick tags. Once Bashin Dan entered, the pace changed immediately. Dan rocked Snakebite with a series of strikes before catching Harrow coming through the ropes and sending him back to the floor.

Harrow and Snakebite eventually managed to isolate Benjamin, cutting him off from his corner and wearing him down with rough tags and plenty of punishment whenever the referee's back was turned. Benjamin survived long enough to dive between them and finally reach Dan. Bashin Dan exploded into the match, dropping Harrow before knocking Snakebite from the apron and building enough momentum that the match appeared to be swinging decisively in his team's favor.

Before Dan could finish Harrow, The Auditor suddenly appeared at ringside. The distraction was enough to bring EBW Champion Vargas Wargrave charging into the ring behind Dan. Vargas blasted him from behind, and The Auditor joined the attack almost immediately. The referee called for the bell as Harrow and Snakebite abandoned any pretense of continuing the match and joined Vargas and The Auditor in putting the boots to Dan and Benjamin.
Winners: Bashin Dan/Benjamin via DQ 

Larry Grim: Oh come on! The EBW Champion made his move, and he's putting the boots to Dan, but look, here comes Trevor Mach and Jammer! 

Apple Kid: They're in the there fighting off the monsters!

Trevor Mach: And there they go! Hit and run! Hit and run! I'm sick of it! I know someone else who is too! Tell 'em Dan-o! 

Bashin Dan: He's right! With the NEW EBW I was hoping we'd be done with all of this! I'm not subscribed to the mind set that the paying customers only get the best matches. I pour my blood, sweat, and tears into every battle! That's why they call me the Dangerous Player! Vargas Wargrave, a long time veteran of the indies, King of VBW and what not. You'd figure with a reputation like that you'd try to uphold it, but we're not seeing a lot of that tonight. Darkness Aoi turned tail and ran from Christy, and now you can't let Harrow and Snakebite take the L? I suggest you get another deck, because if that's the best you can do, then when I ultimately challenge you for that title when I win the E1, you're in for a-

Trevor Mach: Alright Dan, I love the fire, but I'm winning the E1, son. I meant son in a general sense...not a...you and my daughter...sense. *gags* We're not talking about that. 

Bashin Dan: You lost the title and you lost the rematch. With all due respect, Trevor...step aside. 

Trevor Mach: Oh ho ho. This is what I've been waiting for. Danny boy, I want you to make it to the finals. I will see you there! Either way, it's bad news for the "Monster Squad".

-

The EBW World screen flickered through a burst of pink static before snapping into a sugary animated intro filled with stars, hearts, and smiling little mascots. A cheerful jingle played for several seconds before Mimi Starlight bounced into frame, waving both hands enthusiastically at the camera. Her pastel hair practically glowed beneath the studio lights.

Standing several feet behind her was a complete contrast.



The enormous masked man remained perfectly still in his black work gear, his shoulders rising and falling with every slow, heavy breath. Even through the mask, there was something unmistakably hostile about the way he stared into the camera.

Mimi clasped her hands beneath her chin.

Mimi Starlight: Hiiiiiiii, EBW! Mimi Starlight here! Your favorite digital idol, professional ray of sunshine, and soon to be newest member of the EBW family! Yay!

A little animated star graphic popped beside her head.

Behind her, Graveshift breathed heavily.

Mimi Starlight: And I didn't come alone! Everyone, I would like you to meet somebody extremely important to me. My very special friend... Graveshift!

She stepped aside and presented him with both hands.

Graveshift stared forward.

Graveshift: .....

Mimi smiled brightly.

Mimi Starlight: He's saying hello!

Graveshift slowly turned his head toward a stagehand walking somewhere off camera.

The stagehand immediately stopped moving.

Graveshift's breathing became noticeably louder.

Mimi Starlight: Graveshift!

His head instantly turned back toward Mimi.

The breathing softened.

Mimi Starlight: Be nice. We're making friends today.

Graveshift stared at her.

Graveshift: .....

Mimi nodded seriously.

Mimi Starlight: Thank you.

She turned back toward the camera as if absolutely nothing unusual had happened.

Mimi Starlight: Graveshift doesn't talk very much. Actually, Graveshift doesn't talk at all. But that's okay, because communication comes in lots of different forms! Sometimes friendship is about understanding the things somebody doesn't say.

A production assistant accidentally knocked something over nearby.

Graveshift's entire body stiffened.

His fists slowly clenched.

Graveshift: .....

Mimi glanced over her shoulder.

Graveshift looked at her.

Several seconds passed.

His fists unclenched.

Mimi gave the camera a satisfied little thumbs up.

Mimi Starlight: See? He's a sweetheart. So EBW, get ready! Mimi Starlight and Graveshift are officially coming to EarthBound Wrestling! I'm going to make lots of friends, sing lots of songs, meet all your wonderful wrestlers, and spread happiness everywhere I go!

Behind her, Graveshift stared directly into the lens.

His breathing grew louder.

Graveshift: .....

-

Apple Kid: HOLY SHIT! 

Larry Grim: I know...idol types, am I right? 

Apple Kid: What?! 

Larry Grim: Well it's time for the main event, and I'm not sure what we have in store for you. I know Picky is ready to go, but who is he facing? We weren't told-




Larry Grim: Whoa! What?! 

Apple Kid: It's BOOMTOWN!? BOOMTOWN IS HERE! 

Larry Grim: Zyro-K isn't going to be happy.



3. Singles: Boomtown vs. Picky 
-Boomtown immediately turned the match into his personal highlight reel, dodging Picky's opening attack before hitting the ropes and coming back with a spinning kick that nearly knocked him out of his boots. Picky tried slowing him down with a headlock, but Boomtown escaped, vaulted over him, and landed on his feet before striking an exaggerated pose for the EBW Studio crowd. Picky charged him out of frustration and ran directly into another flashy counter.

From there, Boomtown controlled virtually everything. He mixed speed with showmanship, hitting a springboard attack, a running knee, and an unnecessary but extremely well received cartwheel purely because he could. Picky managed one brief comeback after catching Boomtown celebrating too early, but even that lasted only a few seconds. Boomtown ducked a clothesline, spun Picky around, and planted him in the center of the ring.

The crowd knew what was coming. Boomtown backed into the corner, waited for Picky to struggle to his knees, and hit Here Comes the Boom!

1-2-3! 
Winner: Boomtown via Here Comes the Boom! -> Pin 

Larry Grim: Amazing! Boomtown is here and he made short work of the work horse. Incredible! What's going to happen going forward? Well the E1 of course! The tour begins this week! We'll see you there! You never know WHAT'S going to happen in EBW! Buh bye!

Last edited by Machismo (8/30/2026 12:31 am)

Apple Kid: Welcome to another episode of EBW on X! 

Larry Grim: If you've been following along, the E1 Climax Tour is underway! It's a...small tour...but it's our extension outside of Onett, and that matters with cities like Twoson, Fourside, North Point, Reefside, Summers, and of course Saturn City off limits, we've managed to carve out a new territory with cities like Onett, Arcadia City, Metro City, Avalon City, Hanta City, thanks in part to our sponsors the Geist Corporation, who have a lot of pull, and love EBW as much as all of you! 

Apple Kid: It's nice to have friends in high places, eh? Still the E1 Climax is bringing out the best in our elite talent. We have one last show in the Block stages, and that will take place in Avalon City, and that's before we bring the roster back home to Onett for the E1 Climax Finale inside of the Battle Dome! Tickets are on sale now! 

Larry Grim: ALSO! We're happy to announce that the E1 Climax Finale WILL AIR ON X FOR FREE...if you have checkmark. So it's sort of kind of free! Hey, I'm just a skeleton man, I don't know how all of this works. 

Apple Kid: It's called, we're tired of playing around! EBW is the top promotion in wrestling, and we've proven that over more than twenty years, and just because Axis No-

Larry Grim: We're not supposed to say their names! 

Apple Kid: Right. Those guys decided to make a power play, but we refused to be taken over by another evil corporation. That's happened like...a few times, but after Smart Brain did it, I was like....we shouldn't do that anymore. However, when people throw money at you, you kind of want to. 

Larry Grim: Well luckily for us Blake Faust, CEO of Geist Corporation, is NOT one of those nefarious types, and we thank them for the opportunity to keep EBW alive, and grow it in new and interesting ways. Of course we couldn't do this without Little Mac and Boss M's either. 

Apple Kid: Thank you, Tali!

Larry Grim: Now that she's in absolute control with Mac, I'm sure it's going smoothly. 

Apple Kid: Uh oh. 

Larry Grim: What? 

Apple Kid: You triggered a flag. They're gonna cut to her have trouble. 

Larry Grim: What? No they're no-



Apple Kid: ...Oh...they're fine. 

Larry Grim: ...Not everything has to be bad.

Apple Kid: It's a harsh reality we live in, where I just assume things are going to be bad all the time.

Larry Grim: Dude...we can talk if you're-

Apple Kid: ...I just miss Minako. 

Larry Grim: ...We're not supposed to-

Apple Kid: Yeah...I know. 

Larry Grim: ...Wow...things has certainly gotten...Grim?

Apple Kid: ...Hehehehe! 

Larry Grim: It's funny cause...it's my last name and-

Apple Kid: Hehehehe! 

Larry Grim: Anyways, let's get back to the show, shall we? We have the big show to tell you about later, but right now we have a debut for you! The menacing monster Graveshift! Where did he come from? Why is he partnering with the idol Mimi Starlight? Don't know! All I know is that his debut is next!

EBW on X
EBW Studio, Onett
X 

1. Singles: Graveshift[Debut] vs. Tad Blinko
-Tad Blinko spent the opening bell complaining about the size difference, the lighting, the referee, and apparently the very existence of Graveshift. The debuting monster answered him the only way he knew how, with that slow, furious breathing from behind the mask.

Blinko tried to stall, ducking through the ropes and insisting Graveshift stay back, but the instant he stepped inside, Graveshift grabbed him by the throat and hurled him across the ring. Tad bounced off the canvas and scrambled toward the corner, only to eat a crushing body avalanche that folded him in half.

Tad desperately threw punches, but Graveshift barely reacted. He caught Blinko coming off the ropes, lifted him clean off the mat, and planted him with a brutal Spinning Side Slam that shook the tiny EBW Studio ring.

Graveshift covered him with one hand.

1-2-3! 

After the bell, Graveshift remained kneeling beside Tad for several uncomfortable seconds, breathing heavily through his mask until Mimi Starlight appeared at ringside and waved cheerfully.

Graveshift immediately stood and followed her without another glance at his opponent.
Winner: Graveshift via Spinning Side Slam -> Pin 

Apple Kid: Well, that went about as expected. A hulking rage beast and his dainty idol. What an odd combination. 

Larry Grim: That's not the only odd combination, as tonight Dante Ward and Arsene St. Marvelous will team up in our main event to take on The Sharks! They haven't teamed together yet. Are they going to be a winning combination?



Arsene St. Marvelous: Though we come from different places, and different ways of life, we're both here to steal your hearts. 

Dante Ward: We're here for the win, and this guy...might be..."different", but he's alright in my book. 

Arsene St. Marvelous: I spent some time running from the law myself for my "antics". What put you behind bars, my new chum?

Dante Ward: Complicated stuff, but you could ask the new EBW Champion. He'd know more about it than anyone. He's the reason it happened. He's the reason....he's the reason my mentor Lobster Man is...not quite himself anymore. So go ahead and ask the champ for that answer. I'm just here to fight. 

Arsene St. Marvelous: Works for me! 

Larry Grim: Well there you have it! Tonight, they take on the Sharks in our main event, but as for right now. Mimi Starlight is returning for her debut match as she takes on Sharkette! 

Apple Kid: I hope she doesn't bring back Graveshift with her!

2. Women's Singles: Mimi Starlight[Debut] vs. Sharkette
-The mood inside the studio changed completely for Mimi Starlight’s debut.

The lights dimmed, dozens of tiny Starlight flashlights appeared throughout the crowd, and Mimi skipped onto the stage to a wave of pink, blue, and violet light. Fans were already singing along before she even reached the ring.

Sharkette was considerably less impressed.

She charged Mimi immediately and tried to bully the smaller newcomer around the ring, driving her into the corner and mocking the crowd every time they chanted Mimi’s name. Mimi struggled early with Sharkette’s aggression, but her speed quickly changed the match.

She slipped beneath a clothesline, cartwheeled out of the corner, and caught Sharkette with a sharp dropkick. Another followed. Mimi ducked a wild swing and snapped off a spinning headscissors that sent Sharkette tumbling across the ring.

The crowd erupted.

The Starlight flashlights began waving in rhythm.

Sharkette staggered upright and charged again, but Mimi caught her with a kick to the stomach and dropped her with a quick facebuster. She immediately pointed toward the top rope.

The entire audience rose with her.

Mimi climbed to the top turnbuckle, spread her arms, and launched herself into a beautiful Stardust Press.

Perfect landing, and a pin for the victory!

Mimi immediately jumped back to her feet and celebrated like she had just won the biggest match of her life. The lights dropped again, and the studio became a sea of waving Starlight flashlights while Mimi climbed onto the middle rope and sang along with her entrance theme.
Winner: Mimi Starlight via Stardust Press -> Pin 

Apple Kid: Wow! She's something else, but I hear some heavy breathing. Is Graveshift around somewhere?! 

Larry Grim: Sorry, that was me. 

Apple Kid: You don't need to breathe. 

Larry Grim: I'm just engrossed in her...beauty. 

Apple Kid: ...Oh no. Let's not do that, Larry. 

Larry Grim: Alright. 

Apple Kid: Seriously? 

Larry Grim: Yep. 

Apple Kid: Oh...GREAT! 

Larry Grim: Interesting new addition to the women's division we're getting in the NEW EBW. I know the fans have been clamoring for it, and they will get it. Men and women just compliment each other, and make everything better. We've got more names coming down the pipeline too. 

Apple Kid: I thought that Havok had cornered the market on the women wrestlers. A lot of jumps are being made everywhere in fact! What happened? What secret weapon do we have?

Larry Grim: ...We know a guy.

Central City

Rainwater ran along the gutters of Central City as Chimera Ninjas came crashing through the front window of an electronics store. A fourth vaulted over a parked sedan, sword drawn, while two more dropped from a fire escape behind them.

Howard Lincoln adjusted his tie.

He looked deeply annoyed.

Not frightened. Annoyed.

Jiban landed beside him with a metallic thud, red visor glowing beneath the streetlights.

Jiban: Mr. Lincoln, please remain behind me.

Howard stared at the approaching ninjas.

Howard Lincoln: I spent years dealing with lawyers, retailers, competitors, regulators, and game companies. I think I can handle six men in pajamas.

One of the Chimera Ninjas shrieked and charged.

Howard sidestepped him.

The ninja ran straight into a parking meter.

Howard Lincoln: Pansy asses! Stop trying to hit me and hit me!




Jiban drove an armored fist into another ninja's chest and sent him tumbling across the hood of a taxi. Sparks flew as a sword struck Jiban's forearm and bounced away.

Howard picked up the fallen sword, examined it for half a second, and frowned.

Howard Lincoln: You call this a sword? SEGA came at me with worse!

Jiban blocked two attackers at once.

Jiban: What?

Howard Lincoln: SEGA! Fought those bastards for years!

Jiban: I do not believe this is the correct moment.

Howard parried a ninja effectively enough to send the weapon spinning from the man's hands.

A Chimera Ninja leapt from the roof of the sedan.

Jiban caught him out of the air and power slammed him onto the pavement.

Howard Lincoln: Excellent restraint!

Jiban: Thank you.

Howard Lincoln: Now regarding your likeness.

Jiban slowly turned his helmet toward him.

Jiban: My likeness?

Howard ducked as a throwing star passed over his head.

Howard Lincoln: If someone makes a video game about you, I want the rights.

Jiban punched another ninja through a newspaper box.

Jiban: You are negotiating merchandising terms during an ambush.

Howard Lincoln: That's how they get you!

The final three Chimera Ninjas were downed in quick succession. 

Sirens approached in the distance.

Jiban stood.

Jiban: Metro Police will take them from here.

Howard looked around at the broken windows, overturned trash cans, damaged taxi, shattered bus stop, and six unconscious Chimera Ninjas scattered across the street.

Howard Lincoln: One more question.

Jiban: Yes?

Howard Lincoln: Who owns the rights to your transformation sequence?

Jiban stared at him.

Howard smiled.

Howard Lincoln: We should talk.

-

Apple Kid: Howard Lincoln?! He kicked so much ASS! 

Larry Grim: And thanks to Mr. Howard Lincoln we not only have the ladies coming to the NEW EBW, but we also have a special appearance from Metro City's SUPER COP Jiban coming soon! 

Apple Kid: Excellent! 

Larry Grim: For now though, we have our main event of the evening as Arsene St. Marvelous and Dante Ward take on The Sharks!
 
3. Tag: Arsene St. Marvelous/Dante Ward vs. Shark #1/Shark #2 
-The Sharks entered with the confidence of a veteran team who expected two mismatched singles wrestlers to fall apart almost immediately.

For a while, they appeared to be right.

Arsene St. Marvelous wanted to wrestle at a flashy style, constantly looking for openings and frustrating Shark #1 with counters. Dante Ward wanted to punch something.

Dante repeatedly tagged himself in whenever Arsene appeared to have control, while Arsene became increasingly irritated every time Dante turned a clean wrestling exchange into a brawl. The Sharks exploited every argument, cutting the ring in half and isolating Dante for several minutes.

Dante finally escaped Shark #2 with a desperation backdrop and made the tag.

Arsene exploded into the ring.

He ducked Shark #1, caught Shark #2 with a European uppercut, and sent both men crashing into each other. Dante recovered just in time to join him, and for the first time all match the odd couple actually worked together.

Dante blasted Shark #1 off the apron while Arsene traded counters with Shark #2.

Shark #2 attempted a power move.

Arsene slipped free for the roll up and the 1-2-3!

The Sharks immediately protested as Arsene rolled outside the ring with a grin.
Winner: Arsene St. Marvelous[o]/Dante Ward via Roll Up on Shark #2 -> Pin 

Larry Grim: And that does it for us tonight! We'll see in Avalon City as the E1 Climax Tour takes us to Kingdom Arena! 

Apple Kid: They cleaned that place up quick! 

Larry Grim: Thanks to Vander Industries, one of our sponsors for the show! It's going to be a big night for EBW and our rebirth. One of the biggest cards so far. Check it out, and we'll see you there!

EBW: E1 Climax Tour
Kingdom Arena, Avalon City

1. Women's Tag: Christy Angel/Alison Chains vs. Darkness Aoi/?
2. E1 Climax Block A: Benjamin vs. Tack Angel
3. E1 Climax Block B: Bashin Dan vs. Vargas Wargrave
4. E1 Climax Block B: Jammer vs. Zyro Kurogane
5. Tag: Geoff Garrett/Point Man vs. Marco De Leon/Daimon Kuro
6. Singles: Boomtown vs. Arsene St. Marvelous 
7. E1 Climax Block A: Trevor Mach vs. Kinniku Mike

The parking lot outside EBW Studios was already overflowing well before bell time. Fans crowded around the barricades near the employee entrance, some wearing homemade shirts, some holding signs, and several looking like they had been drinking since sometime around breakfast. One guy held up a HINT sign as per usual. 

A black sedan rolled slowly toward the side entrance before stopping twenty feet short of the door.

The back passenger door opened, and Tack Angel climbed out first.

He had barely straightened his jacket when Howard Lincoln emerged from the opposite side.

Makoto stepped out behind Tack, looking considerably less burdened.

Tack stared at Howard's mountain of documents.

Tack Angel: You brought homework?

Howard adjusted his glasses.

Howard Lincoln: Legal protection is not homework, Mr. Angel. Legal protection is armor.

Tack Angel: I've got armor.

Tack slapped his chest.

Tack Angel: It's called being handsome and dangerous.

Makoto gave him a sideways look.

Makoto Angel: One of those is debatable.

Tack stopped walking.

Tack Angel: Which one?

Makoto smiled sweetly.

Makoto Angel: You're certainly my handsome POG champ.

Tack Angel: Thanks! Hey wait!.

Howard Lincoln: As I was explaining in the car, successfully establishing ownership of the Star Prince brand requires more than registering the exact phrase Star Prince.

Tack groaned.

Tack Angel: Howard, we've been talking about this for hours.

Howard Lincoln: We discussed preliminary protections. We discussed merchandising protections. We are currently discussing derivative nomenclature.

Tack looked toward Makoto.

Tack Angel: Is that Eaglish?

Makoto Angel: I think he said you're going to lose more money.

Howard raised one finger.

Howard Lincoln: Quite the opposite. We are spending money now to prevent other people from making money later.

Tack Angel: ...Anything to pay less taxes?

Howard began reading from his paperwork.

Howard Lincoln: Star Prince. The Star Prince. Prince of Stars. Prince Among Stars. Star-Prince, hyphenated. StarPrince, one word. The People's Star Prince—

Tack stopped again.

Tack Angel: Absolutely not.

Howard looked up.

Howard Lincoln: Which one?

Tack Angel: The People's Star Prince. Sounds like I campaign for office.

Makoto Angel: You'd lose.

Tack Angel: You are unusually hostile tonight!

Makoto Angel: Only joking, sweetie. I'm just keeping you humble.

Howard flipped to another page.

Howard Lincoln: Prince of the Stars. Star Prince Supreme. International Star Prince. Universal Star Prince. Galactic Star Prince—

Tack Angel: Universal Star Prince sounds incredible!

Howard made a note.

Howard Lincoln: Moving it to priority filing.

Tack Angel: Wait, don't actually—

Howard Lincoln: Too late.

They reached the outer barricade near the talent entrance.

That was where the crowd noticed them.

The reaction began with a few shouts.

Fan #1: TACK!

Fan #2: STAR PRINCE!

Fan #3: MAKOTO!

Tack immediately brightened.

Tack Angel: Ah. My people.

Howard kept walking.

A fan leaned over the barricade holding a marker.

Busty Fan: TACK! SIGN MY CHEST!

Tack pointed at her.

Tack Angel: See? Loyalty.

Makoto: She has Vargas written on her already.

Tack squinted.

Tack Angel: Treachery.

Most of the fans were loud but harmless, reaching out for autographs and shouting for Tack's attention as security tried to maintain a narrow path toward the entrance.

Unfortunately, the closer they got to the door, the rougher the crowd became.

A cluster of men near the end of the barricade pushed forward hard enough to shake the metal railings. They were laughing, yelling things Tack couldn't quite make out, and reaching well beyond the barrier.

Makoto instinctively moved closer to Tack.

One of the men shouted something at her.

Another reached toward her waist as she passed.

Makoto twisted away.

Tack's smile disappeared instantly.

Tack Angel: Don't.

The man laughed.

Rowdy Fan: MAKOTO! SO SEXY!

Another hand came reaching over the barricade toward Makoto.

Tack caught the man's wrist.

Hard.

The laughter around them faded.

Tack Angel: I gave you one.

The fan tried pulling his arm back.

Rowdy Fan: Get off me!

Tack Angel: One warning.

Howard looked over his paperwork.

Howard Lincoln: Technically, Tack, you are now within your rights to defend your spouse.




Tack yanked the first man forward until his stomach slammed against the railing, released his wrist, and cracked him across the face with a forearm.

The crowd exploded.

Makoto backed toward the wall as security suddenly found itself dealing with four different people trying to push through at once.

Makoto Angel: Tack!

Tack grabbed another fan by the shirt and hurled him backward into two of his friends.

He ducked a wild swing.

A heavyset man lunged around the barricade.

Howard calmly placed his paperwork on the hood of a nearby car.

He removed his glasses.

Folded them.

Placed them beside the paperwork.

Tack noticed.

Tack Angel: Howard?

Howard rolled up his sleeves.

A fan charged him.

Howard stepped aside, caught the man's arm, twisted it behind his back, and slammed him face first onto the hood.

Tack stared.

Tack Angel: Where did you learn to do that?!

Howard Lincoln: Nintendo!

Tack Angel: That explains nothing!

Another man grabbed Tack from behind.

Tack stomped his foot, drove an elbow into his stomach, turned, and sent him crashing over the barricade.

Howard released his own attacker just long enough to shove another man backward with both hands.



The man stumbled directly toward Tack.

Tack instinctively ducked.

Howard's fist connected cleanly.

The man dropped.

Both of them stared down at him.

Tack slowly looked at Howard.

Howard flexed his hand and winced.

By now, EBW security had finally overwhelmed the troublemakers and was dragging them away from the barricade.

Makoto stepped forward again.

Tack immediately checked her arms and shoulders.

Tack Angel: You okay?

Makoto Angel: I'm fine.

Tack Angel: They touch you?

Makoto Angel: No.

Howard returned to the hood and began reorganizing his paperwork.

One of the security guards stared at him.

Security Guard: Sir, did you just punch that guy?

Howard slid his glasses back onto his face.

Howard Lincoln: Just another day in the life of Howard Lincoln.

He pointed toward three fans holding phones.

Howard Lincoln: Look, Mr. Angel. By tomorrow morning, Universal Star Prince may have substantial viral market recognition.

Tack slowly looked toward Makoto.

Tack Angel: I hate that he's good at his job.

Makoto took the pen from Howard and handed it to Tack.

Makoto Angel: Sign it!




The E1 Climax posters had barely reached the walls of EBW Studios before people began lining up beneath them. Across the bottom, a fresh strip announced Iwata Memorial Arena as the new venue. Inside, the audience crowded close to the ring, chanting while Apple Kid adjusted his headset and Larry Grim studied the evening's card.

Apple Kid: Welcome to EBW on X! Apple Kid and Larry Grim here in Onett, where we have a championship match, a man I'm increasingly worried about being in the same building with, and a main event that will settle the E1 Climax field!

Larry Grim: Graveshift is the one he's worried about. Boomtown also unsettles him, but mostly because he keeps describing people as engagement opportunities.

Little Mac stood in the ring while Tali Mach waited beside the aisle in her wheelchair, holding a microphone and a copy of the original event poster. She raised the poster for the audience, then folded it neatly down the middle.

Tali Mach: Apparently, you people want to see this E1 Climax thing. Enough of you that we ran out of places to put you. So we're moving the big show from the Battle Dome to Iwata Memorial Arena! We needed a bigger venue, but we're keeping it right here in Onett!

The cheers drowned out the beginning of Mac's response. He let them continue, looking out over a studio full of people who had followed EBW into its new home.

Little Mac: You've supported us from the beginning of this new company. We're going to make that bigger building worth the trip. Trevor Mach has won Block A. Zyro Kurogane has won Block B. Vargas Wargrave has qualified in second place from Block B. Tonight, we find out who joins them.

Tali Mach: Tack Angel and Kinniku Mike finished with three points each. Their match in Arcadia was a draw. Tonight is the playoff. One fall, no time limit. Somebody is going to win it!

Apple looked toward the entrance as Mac lowered his microphone.

Apple Kid: Two matches in one night to win the E1. And whoever advances tonight earns the right to fight for the E1!

Larry Grim: Tack and Mike had opportunities to avoid this. But they sort of cancelled each other out with all of their results. This is how we settle it!

Boomtown appeared before either commentator could say anything else. He held his phone at arm's length, turning slowly to include the audience behind him, and only lowered it when Ness walked out with the EBW X Championship over his shoulder. Boomtown eyed the belt, then offered the champion a smile.

Boomtown: There he is, chat. Onett's favorite nostalgia act. Ness, we've already done this once. Arcadia. Here Comes the Boom. One, two, three. Tonight, Boomtown gets something to put on the shelf.

Ness: You beat me. I remember the whole thing. That's why I spent my time getting ready for you.

Boomtown: And how's that going?

Ness: Ask me after the match. You might want to put your phone down for it.

Boomtown laughed and handed the phone to an attendant, giving detailed instructions about keeping him in focus. Ness climbed through the ropes and placed the championship in the referee's hands.

EBW on X
EBW Studios, Onett
X

1. EBW X Championship: Ness(c) vs. Boomtown
-The thirty minute time limit was announced while the referee displayed the belt. Boomtown looked up at the clock, then held three fingers toward Ness, indicating how many seconds he expected to need. Ness stretched his shoulders and waited for the bell.

Boomtown's confidence had substance behind it. He slipped out of the opening wristlock, turned through Ness's grip, and caught the champion's arm behind his back before Ness had fully adjusted his feet. Ness reached back to peel the hands apart, but Boomtown changed position again, snapping him over with an arm drag and keeping hold of the wrist. When Ness rolled up, Boomtown was already moving. A dropkick struck the champion across the chest and sent him into the ropes.

Boomtown sprang to his feet and spread his arms. The audience booed, although several people in the front row were applauding before they remembered whose performance they were enjoying. Ness nodded once as he rose. He had learned something about the opening pace, and his next approach was slower.

The second lockup ended with Ness cinching a side headlock and taking Boomtown to the mat. Boomtown tried to roll him onto his shoulders, only for Ness to widen his base and settle more weight across his chest. He tried a headscissors next. Ness slipped free, followed him through the scramble, and took the headlock again. Boomtown finally reached the ropes, where Ness released promptly and backed away.

Boomtown rushed him and found himself in another headlock. This time, the laughter from the crowd annoyed him enough that he drove Ness into the corner and buried a shoulder beneath his ribs. The referee separated them, but Boomtown had his first target. When Ness stepped forward again, the challenger feinted high, struck the body, and whipped him hard into the opposite buckles.

The impact took the breath out of Ness. Boomtown followed with a running knee to the midsection, caught the champion as he stumbled forward, and snapped him down for the first serious cover. Ness kicked out at two. Boomtown immediately pressed a forearm across his jaw and made him spend more energy pushing it away.

Apple Kid: Boomtown has been talking all week, but look how quickly he found something to work on. Ness can't get a full breath between these attacks.

Larry Grim: People hear the mouth and overlook the wrestler. Ness already paid for doing that in Arcadia. Boomtown's perfectly capable of making him pay twice.

By the ten minute announcement, Ness had begun answering the body attacks with strikes to Boomtown's right shoulder. When the challenger reached for him, Ness trapped the arm and pulled him down across it. When Boomtown tried to break away with a forearm, Ness stepped inside the swing, folded the arm behind him, and drove him shoulder-first into the buckles. Boomtown came out rubbing the joint, his expression briefly stripped of its amusement.

He adapted quickly. A left handed strike caught Ness expecting the right, and Boomtown followed with a spinning kick that dropped him to one knee. Rather than attempt the springboard immediately, Boomtown waited for Ness to rise, faked the jump, and watched the champion move to intercept him. Only then did he change direction, vault onto the ropes, and spring back with a crossbody that flattened Ness for another two count.

The challenger rolled out of the cover onto one knee and tapped his temple.

Ness answered by catching his ankle. Boomtown's grin disappeared as the champion pulled him off balance and rolled him into a cradle. He escaped just before three and scrambled up into a sharp forearm. Ness followed with two more, then a dropkick that sent Boomtown through the ropes to the floor.

For several seconds, the challenger stayed outside with his hands on his hips, staring at the ring. Ness stood back and let the referee count. Boomtown circled toward the attendant holding his phone, demanding to know whether the crossbody had looked as good as it felt. The attendant started to answer, but the referee reached seven, and Boomtown hurried back inside.

Larry Grim: Wonderful crossbody. Almost followed it with a countout loss while conducting audience research.

Apple Kid: Fifteen minutes gone! Half the time limit, and neither man has established control for very long!

The next exchange brought Boomtown closer than he had been all match. He caught Ness coming off the ropes, redirected him into the corner, and followed with a running strike that left the champion sitting against the bottom buckle. Boomtown dragged him out, climbed, and delivered a high, clean splash across the ribs. Ness barely lifted a shoulder. Boomtown sat beside him for a moment, checking the referee's fingers, before forcing himself back to work.

He applied an abdominal stretch, pulling Ness upright and making the champion carry his weight through already tender ribs. Ness tried to reach behind him for a leg, but Boomtown shifted his foot away. Ness tried to straighten up, and the challenger leaned harder into the hold. With the crowd clapping him forward, Ness finally stepped across Boomtown's base, broke the grip, and threw him over his hip.

Boomtown landed, rolled, and charged straight back. Ness ducked beneath him, caught his arm as he passed, and pulled him into a short clothesline. Both men stayed down after the impact. Boomtown's legs moved first, but Ness reached his feet first, using the ropes to steady himself before stepping away from them to meet the challenger.

They traded strikes in the middle of the ring. Boomtown's were faster and came from more angles; Ness's were shorter, delivered with his feet beneath him and his attention on the next attack. When Boomtown swung wide, Ness hit the body. When Ness leaned forward, Boomtown brought a knee up underneath him. The twenty-minute announcement drew a cheer that built with every exchange.

Boomtown finally caught the champion hard enough to fold him forward and began setting him for Here Comes the Boom! Ness recognized the positioning from Arcadia. He dropped his weight before Boomtown could complete it, fought the hands apart, and drove through the challenger to throw him over. Boomtown landed awkwardly on the shoulder Ness had worked earlier. He rose clutching it and walked directly into Ness's next attack.

The champion hit PK Rockin' close to the ropes. Boomtown's momentum carried him onto his side, and he kept moving, rolling under the bottom rope before Ness could pull him back. Ness reached after him, caught only a boot, and lost his grip. Outside, Boomtown lay on the floor with one hand pressed against his shoulder, breathing through his open mouth.

Apple Kid: Boomtown got himself out! He felt that match slipping away and got out of the ring!

Larry Grim: That's good awareness. He can be insufferable and still know where the ropes are.

Ness allowed himself a few breaths before following. He brought Boomtown up carefully, keeping control of the arm, but the challenger turned on him with a short kick to the ribs. Ness's grip loosened. Boomtown drove him back against the apron, rolled him inside, and followed with a springboard attack that left both men sprawled near the center. His damaged shoulder slowed the cover, allowing Ness to escape at two.

At twenty-seven minutes, Boomtown finally found the opening he wanted. Ness reached for the arm again, expecting him to protect it. Boomtown let him take it, stepped through the attempted control, and caught the champion as he turned. Here Comes the Boom! landed, and Ness collapsed onto his back.

Boomtown rose onto his knees beside him. The audience had come out of its seats, and he looked around at them with an exhausted, triumphant smile. He tapped his wrist, pointed toward the championship at ringside, and mouthed something toward his phone before dropping across Ness.

The referee counted twice. Ness stretched his leg until the heel of his boot settled onto the bottom rope.

Boomtown did not believe the break until the referee pointed it out. He looked from Ness's boot to the clock, and the satisfaction vanished from his face.

Apple Kid: He had him down and spent those seconds celebrating! Ness used every one of them to get himself closer to that rope!

Larry Grim: You can see Ness moving while Boomtown's looking around. He's hurt, but he knows exactly where he is. Boomtown gave an experienced champion time to solve a problem.

The challenger dragged Ness into the center and covered again. Ness kicked out. Boomtown hooked both legs on the next attempt, but the champion still freed a shoulder. With two minutes remaining, Boomtown forced him upright and went for another finish, only for Ness to fight free and stagger backward into the ropes.

Boomtown followed with a running attack. Ness stepped aside, caught him on the rebound, and drove him down. The cover brought a two-count so close that Apple shouted before realizing Boomtown's shoulder had risen. Ness looked at the referee, accepted the answer, and immediately reached for the challenger again.

The final minute became a struggle over every inch. Boomtown countered a lift into a sunset flip. Ness escaped and trapped him in a cradle. Boomtown rolled through and caught a handful of leg, nearly folding Ness onto both shoulders. Ness turned onto his side, planted a foot, and fought back to his knees while the audience counted down the last thirty seconds.

Boomtown landed a forearm that knocked the champion backward. He hit another, then reached to set up Here Comes the Boom! one more time. Ness held his ground, pried at the grip, and twisted free as the count reached ten. Boomtown tried to catch him turning, but Ness trapped the attacking arm and pulled him down into a tight cradle.

The referee slid into position. His hand struck once, then twice. The bell rang before the third count could be completed.

Boomtown kicked free anyway, rolling onto his stomach and reaching toward the ropes. Ness remained sitting beside him, chest heaving, until the referee knelt to explain. Around them, half the audience was demanding five more minutes, and the other half was still arguing about how close the finish had been.
Winner: Time Limit Draw -> No Title Change!

Apple Kid: Thirty minutes! They've gone the entire limit! Ness retains the EBW X Championship, and Boomtown came within inches of taking it!

Boomtown pulled himself up by the ropes and demanded a microphone. Sweat dripped from his chin while Ness accepted the championship, taking a moment to get its weight settled on his shoulder.

Boomtown: I beat you in Arcadia. You couldn't beat me tonight. Look me in the eye and tell me we're finished.

Ness approached him slowly. Boomtown stopped looking toward the crowd.

Ness: You wrestled a hell of a match. Go ask Mac for another one. I'll bring this.

He lifted the belt slightly. Boomtown stared at it, then at the clock above the entrance. For once, he had nothing ready to say.

During the interval, Apple spoke with Christy Angel and Alison Chains about Avalon. Christy sat with a cold pack against her jaw. Alison stood beside her chair, turning a roll of wrist tape over in her hands. Both had watched the footage of Ripper Jane's return, although Alison had asked for it to be stopped before the finish.

Apple Kid: Christy, how are you feeling after the Hell Claw?

Christy Angel: I'm hoping Jane doesn't have rabies. I don't understand what happened! I mean heck and a half! She was acting tame with Hope! What happened there? We have NO idea! I'm sore. I'm mad. I also found out how many foods require chewing, which has been a terrible educational experience.

Alison's grip tightened around the tape.

Alison Chains: Aoi had my ankle. I could see you. I could see what Jane was doing, and I couldn't get there.

Christy Angel: I know. Ali, I know you were trying.

Apple Kid: Jane seemed to be trying to bring something out of you, Alison. Those slaps, the things she was saying—

Alison Chains: Yeah. She wanted a reaction, and she can have it. Look in my eyes. Do you see any fog? I'm clear. I can see. Next time, she can have it while I'm looking at her.

Christy lowered the cold pack enough to look up at her friend. Alison noticed and sat on the arm of the chair, finally putting down the tape.

Alison Chains: I'm still me, Christy.

Christy Angel: Good. I like you. You're exhausting, but I like you.

Farther down the corridor, Picky Minch was finishing his warmup when Ness returned from the ring. Picky watched the champion sit on a bench and carefully lower the belt beside him.

Picky Minch: Thirty minutes with that mouth running. You deserve a second belt.

Ness: I'd settle for some water. You ready?

Picky glanced toward the entrance. The studio lights had dimmed, and Mimi Starlight's cheerful introduction music was beginning to play.

Picky Minch: I've been getting real tired of watching somebody else's hand go up. I helped open this place. I didn't come back to spend every night proving how much punishment I can take.

Ness: Then make him wrestle you. Make him turn. Make him bend down. Don't give him the fight that's easiest for him.

Picky nodded, pulled his kneepads into place, and headed toward the ring. At the entrance, Mimi waved brightly to him while Graveshift stood behind her, his black work gear disappearing into the shadows beyond the lights.

Mimi Starlight: Hiiii, Picky! Good luck! Let's have a wonderful match!

Picky Minch: I'm going to start with surviving it and work up from there.

2. Singles: Picky Minch vs. Graveshift
-Picky moved as soon as the bell rang. He darted around Graveshift's lead side, kicked the knee, and slipped away before the larger man could turn fully toward him. A second kick brought Graveshift a step forward. Picky changed direction, dropped low, and attacked the same leg with a dropkick that made the giant catch himself against the ropes.

The reaction from the audience seemed to strengthen Picky's nerve. He seized the ankle and pulled, trying to take Graveshift off his feet before those enormous hands could reach him. Graveshift bent down and caught the back of his neck. Picky abandoned the leg immediately, turned through the grip, and struck with an elbow before ducking beneath a sweeping clothesline.

He hit the ropes and came back with both feet aimed at the knee. This time Graveshift dropped to one leg. Picky hurried behind him, clasped his hands around the waist, and tried to pull him backward. He could not finish the lift. Graveshift reached down, peeled the grip apart, and threw Picky over his shoulder with frightening ease.

Graveshift caught him rising and drove him into the corner. Picky tried to protect his ribs as the first heavy forearm came down across his upper back. The second knocked him against the buckles. Graveshift dragged him out by the arm and sent him crashing into the opposite corner so hard that he fell forward onto his knees.

Mimi clapped encouragement from the floor. Her bright voice carried through a studio that had become noticeably quieter.

Mimi Starlight: You're doing great, Graveshift! Remember the rules!

Graveshift looked toward her, then back down at Picky. He hauled the veteran up and dropped him with a crushing slam. The cover was heavy enough to force the air from Picky's chest, but Picky twisted a shoulder free at two. Graveshift remained kneeling beside him, breathing through the mask, and reached down again.

Picky caught the wrist and pulled it across his body, trying to drag Graveshift into a submission before he could straighten. The giant's free hand closed around Picky's gear. He rose, lifting Picky with him, and drove him backward into the corner to break the hold. Picky stumbled out, barely avoided a boot, and went low again. A dropkick struck the damaged knee, followed by another that caught Graveshift under the jaw as he bent forward.

Graveshift staggered. Picky scrambled to the second rope and launched himself with a flying forearm that finally sent the masked man down. He covered immediately, hooking a leg with both arms. Graveshift thrust him away before three, but the crowd had seen him leave his feet, and Picky could hear them getting behind him.

He stayed close enough to slip around the next grab and climbed onto Graveshift's back, locking in a rear naked choke. Graveshift reached for the arm across his throat. Picky tucked his head behind the giant's shoulder and squeezed harder, his expression twisted with the effort. For a moment, Graveshift's forward movement slowed.

Then Graveshift drove backward into the turnbuckles. Picky held on through the first collision. The second broke his grip, and he dropped onto the buckles, where Graveshift turned and gathered him for the Tombstone.

Picky fought as if he knew there would be no getting up afterward. He kicked his legs, struck at the mask with short, frantic blows, and shifted his weight until he slipped down Graveshift's back. Before the giant could turn, Picky dropped his hips, locked his hands, and threw everything he had into a bridging Hagen Suplex.

The lift was ugly with strain, but he completed it. Graveshift's shoulders hit the mat, and Picky forced his own body into a bridge while the referee counted. The audience rose with the second slap of the mat. Graveshift broke free just before the third, collapsing the bridge and leaving Picky clutching his lower back.

Apple Kid: PICKY ALMOST DID IT! He got him over! He nearly stole this match!

Larry Grim: He earned that chance. Every attack on the knee, every change of direction, all of it got Graveshift low enough for that throw. But Picky put almost everything he had left into it.

Picky dragged himself up and tried to take the back again. This time, Graveshift caught him before he could secure the choke. He reached over his shoulder, pulled Picky forward, and dropped him hard enough that the veteran bounced onto his side. Picky crawled toward the ropes, then turned to meet the shadow moving over him. He threw one last forearm from his knees.

Graveshift absorbed it, caught his next swing, and lifted him. Picky's boots moved desperately as he tried to find another escape, but Graveshift adjusted his grip and held him secure. In the center of the ring, he delivered the Tombstone Piledriver and folded Picky's arms across his chest for the pin.
Winner: Graveshift via Tombstone Piledriver -> Pin

Graveshift stayed over him after the bell. When Picky tried to turn onto his side, the masked man reached toward him again, and Mimi stepped onto the apron.

Mimi Starlight: Graveshift. All done. That was three.

His hand stopped. Mimi waited, her smile softer now, until he looked toward her and rose. She held out her hand, and he followed her toward the ropes, leaving the referee room to check on Picky.

Apple Kid: Picky fought for every second of that match. I thought he had it with the suplex.

Larry Grim: Graveshift had to work for this one. We also learned how little room there is to make a mistake against him.

Picky refused the stretcher when it was offered, but accepted an arm beneath each shoulder. The audience applauded him all the way up the aisle. Mimi waved to them from beside Graveshift, apparently pleased that everybody was being so supportive.

Before the main event, Larry spoke with Bashin Dan and Benjamin about the final night of block competition. Jammer stood with them, listening while Dan turned a bottle of water between his palms.

Bashin Dan: Beating Vargas matters. I'm proud of that win. It also doesn't change what happened against Zyro and Jammer. I left myself needing too much on the last night. Next time, I have to play the whole tournament better.

Benjamin: Tack had three points when he wrestled me. I had none. I still needed that win, and I fought for it. That's what makes the E1 mean something. You have to beat the man in front of you, even if you're already out of contention.

Jammer: And sometimes the man in front of you is your best friend, which makes the car ride afterward a real delight. But Dan beat the champion. Benji beat Tack. We're leaving with something to build on.

Larry Grim: Who advances tonight?

Bashin Dan: Tack, if he can keep Mike from deciding what kind of fight they're having. Mike wants him angry. Tack's dangerous when he's thinking.

Tack Angel's Locker Room

In the dressing room, Makoto smoothed the last strip of tape along Tack's ribs. He tested a deep breath and tried unsuccessfully to conceal the discomfort. Benjamin's spear in Avalon had left a reminder that would be going into the ring with him.

Makoto Angel: You can tell me when it hurts. I've been hit before.

Tack Angel: I know. I'm mostly trying to fool me. How's Christy?

Makoto Angel: Sore. Complaining. Making Alison feel better about something that happened to her. You can see the family resemblance.

Tack smiled, then looked down at the tape.

Tack Angel: I had a chance to make this simple. Beat Benjamin, and we're talking about Iwata already. Instead, I gave Mike another night to wave that stupid pillow around and talk about my wife.

Makoto Angel: He has a picture. You have me. Now stop letting him make that sound like a competition.

Tack looked up, the smile returning more naturally this time. Makoto kissed him, then put a hand against his chest before he could stand.

Makoto Angel: Beat him because you want to win the E1. I'll watch with Christy. Come find us afterward.

Backstage

Mike offered a considerably shorter assessment when Apple caught up with him near the entrance. He was pulling on a kneepad, working it carefully over the leg Trevor had punished in Avalon.

Apple Kid: Mike, Trevor Mach handed you your first loss of the tournament. How much of that match are you carrying into tonight?

Kinniku Mike: Enough to want another crack at him. Mach got me. Fine. That doesn't put Tack in Iwata. He couldn't finish me in Arcadia, and he's not finishing me tonight.

Apple Kid: You both know each other very well. Does that make this harder?

Kinniku Mike: Makes it fun. Tack's got all these buttons, and he keeps telling everybody where they are. His pride. His family. All the things he thinks he's owed. Let's see how that Star Prince act holds up when he's sitting at home watching me win his tournament.

3. E1 Climax Block A #2 Spot: Tack Angel vs. Kinniku Mike
-Mike entered alone, rolling his shoulders as the audience jeered him. Tack followed to a sustained cheer, stopping at the foot of the steps long enough to look toward the E1 graphic above the entrance. He climbed into the ring, checked the ropes, and kept his attention on Mike while the referee explained the stakes. Their three points had brought them here. This match would decide which man advanced.

The opening lockup became a contest of balance before it became a contest of strength. Mike tried to walk Tack backward, but Tack changed his footing and turned him toward the corner. Mike reversed the pressure, dug in, and forced Tack against the buckles, where he kept a forearm beneath his chin until the referee reached four.

Tack came out carefully. On the next engagement he went low, catching Mike's leg and taking him down before the larger man could establish the same grip. Mike kicked him away and rose quickly enough to avoid being trapped, but Tack had seen the hesitation as he put weight through his damaged thigh. He went after it immediately.

The first low kick drew a grunt. The second made Mike grab for the ropes. Tack stepped back when the referee called for a break, allowing Mike to come out under his own power. Mike answered with a heavy forearm, then reached for Tack's ribs. Tack caught the wrist, pulled him off balance, and kicked the thigh again.

Apple Kid: Tack watched what Trevor did to that leg in Avalon!

Larry Grim: And Mike watched Benjamin hit Tack with that spear. Neither man arrived here fresh. The first one who can make the other carry his weight is going to have an advantage.

Mike found his advantage when Tack tried to change position behind him. He hooked an arm around Tack's waist, turned sharply, and drove him into the buckles with his weight behind the collision. Tack's grip broke. Mike buried two shoulders into the taped ribs, dragged him out, and dropped him across his knee with a backbreaker that left the Star Prince struggling to straighten up.

Mike covered for two, then pressed his knee into Tack's side while pulling backward on his chin. Tack reached for the leg, trying to remove the pressure. Mike shifted before he could secure it and hauled him into a tight bodylock. Tack's feet left the mat. The crowd began clapping as he fought to keep enough air in his lungs to resist.

Tack planted a forearm beneath Mike's jaw and pushed until he could draw a breath. He struck the ear with his free hand, hit a second time, and dropped back to his feet when the grip loosened. Mike reached to gather him again and took a sharp kick to the thigh for his trouble.

He followed with a forearm that knocked Mike backward. A second put him against the ropes, but Mike came off them with a clothesline that turned Tack inside out. He covered quickly, grinding his forearm across the face, and Tack had to force a shoulder clear with both legs kicking against the mat.

Mike did not argue with the count. He dragged Tack into a seated position and went for the rear naked choke, forcing him to defend his throat while the crowd shouted warnings. Tack caught the wrist before it could settle beneath his chin. Mike used his free hand to strike the ribs, then pulled again. Tack's grip slipped, and the choke began closing.

For several seconds, Tack could only keep his chin down and fight the hands. He got one knee beneath himself, then a foot, lifting Mike's weight enough to turn them toward the ropes. Mike tried to drag him backward. His damaged leg failed to anchor him cleanly, and Tack managed another step before catching the middle rope with both hands.

The referee forced the break. Mike released at four, shoved Tack away, and ran at him as he turned. Tack ducked, caught him coming back, and hit a powerslam that shook the ring. The impact hurt Tack too. He rolled off clutching his side, taking several precious seconds before he could crawl over and cover. Mike escaped at two.

Apple Kid: Tack found a way out of the choke, but every time he has to lift Mike, those ribs are paying for it!

Larry Grim: Mike's having his own problem planting that leg. Watch both men before they attempt a big move. They're adjusting their footing, testing whether the body will do what they're asking.

Tack rose first and began building his offense through shorter attacks. A forearm stopped Mike on one knee. Another forced him upright against the ropes. Tack caught him coming out, attempted the Star Driver, and nearly lost the lift when his ribs seized. Mike dropped behind him and shoved him toward the corner, following with a crushing splash.

Mike hoisted Tack onto the buckles and began arranging him for the Muscle Buster. Tack fought the grip, struck down across Mike's shoulders, and kicked him away long enough to climb higher. When Mike came back, Tack leaped into him with a forearm that knocked them both to the mat. The audience was standing before either man began to rise.

They met on their knees, trading blows with the desperation of men who could feel their chances narrowing. Mike's next forearm knocked Tack sideways. Tack steadied himself with one hand, got back in front of him, and answered. Mike climbed to his feet and tried to pull Tack into another choke. Tack turned through the attempt, caught him before he could reset, and finally delivered the Star Driver.

The cover brought a two-count and an agonizingly late escape. Tack sat back on his heels, breathing hard, then looked toward the entrance. He seemed to gather himself at the sight of the E1 emblem. He pulled Mike up, secured the wrist, and fought through the pain in his side to deliver the WRISTCLUTCH Heaven Driver.

Mike landed close to the ropes. Tack crawled across him, hooked the far leg, and pressed his weight down as the referee counted. The audience counted with him, certain they were watching the final place in the semifinals being filled.

Just before the third slap, a hand reached from the floor and lifted Mike's free boot onto the bottom rope.

The referee saw the boot and stopped the count. Tack turned his head, confused, while the woman at ringside lowered her hand and stepped back from the apron. Green hair fell across the shoulder of her dark outfit as she lifted her face toward him.

Apple Kid: NIMBUS TENEBRAE! That's Nimbus Tenebrae! She put his foot on the rope!

Larry Grim: The referee saw the rope break. Nimbus has just saved Mike's place in this match!

Tack remained on one knee with his hand resting on Mike's chest. For an instant, the noise of the studio seemed distant to him. He knew that face, and he remembered the confidence with which she had spoken about parts of his life he could barely reach. Nimbus looked back at him with the same patient, intimate amusement.

Nimbus Tenebrae: I will find you wherever you go, my Star Prince.

Tack rose slowly. Mike was stirring behind him, and Tack could hear his boots scraping against the canvas. He forced his eyes away from Nimbus in time to meet Mike's charge, stepped aside, and sent him stumbling into the corner.

Tack Angel: Stay out of this!

Nimbus smiled. Tack followed Mike into the corner, struck him across the chest, and pulled him clear. Whatever her arrival had awakened, he was fighting to keep his attention on the match. He caught Mike's wrist again and began setting the grip for another Heaven Driver.

Nimbus stepped onto the apron.

The referee moved toward her immediately, ordering her down and placing himself between her and the ring. Tack kept hold of Mike and tried to finish the lift. Mike dropped his weight, used his free arm to strike low between Tack's legs, and tore loose as Tack folded forward.

Apple Kid: LOW BLOW! The referee's looking at Nimbus! Turn around!

Nimbus stepped off the apron as soon as the damage was done. Mike caught Tack before he could fall, drove him backward into the corner, and lifted him onto the middle buckle. Tack tried to push him away, but his arms would not hold the distance. Mike secured him, carried him out into the center, and delivered the Muscle Buster with everything he had left.

The referee turned back to find Mike covering. Tack's boot scraped weakly across the mat as the first count fell. Mike hooked the leg higher, trapping his weight over the Star Prince's shoulders, and held him there for the second count and the third.
Winner: Kinniku Mike via Muscle Buster -> Pin -> Advances as Block A #2!

The studio erupted in boos. Mike rolled onto his back and laughed between exhausted breaths, then raised an arm before the referee could reach him. Outside, Nimbus watched Tack with complete interest, barely acknowledging the man whose hand was being raised.

Apple Kid: Mike advances! Tack had him beaten, Nimbus saved him, and then she gave Mike the opening for that low blow!

Larry Grim: Kinniku Mike takes the second qualifying spot from Block A. The official saw the pin and missed both acts of interference. That's how this match got away from Tack.

Mike staggered to the ropes and pointed up at the E1 graphic. When he saw his name appear, he slapped the top turnbuckle hard enough to make the nearby fans flinch.

Kinniku Mike: THERE IT IS! Get a good look, Tack! I'm going to Iwata!

Makoto reached the ring with Geoff Garrett and Point Man close behind her. Nimbus withdrew before Makoto could get through the ropes, stepping out on the far side while the two black shirts tried and failed to keep Mike away. Makoto knelt beside Tack and supported him as he tried to sit up. Across the ring, Nimbus watched the two of them together, then turned toward the aisle.

Apple Kid: That's our E1 Climax field for Iwata Memorial Arena! But what has Nimbus Tenebrae brought back into Tack Angel's life tonight?

Larry Grim: She made sure he lost something important, then went straight to him after the bell. Mike got a place in the semifinals.

Tack finally managed to sit upright. Makoto spoke quietly beside him, keeping an arm around his shoulders, but his attention remained on the aisle until Nimbus disappeared beyond the entrance. He had come to the studio prepared to fight for one more night in the E1. As Makoto helped him to his feet, he tightened his hand around hers and kept looking toward the place where Nimbus had been.