Ascension 1.3 - Opportunity

We now cut to the back parking lot where we see a mass of fans huddled behind guardrails on each side of the roadway leading into the back of arena. Suddenly a silver Honda Accord Hybrid starts to approach the arena and when the fans see who it is they erupt. The guardrails get flipped and they swarm the car. The silver Accord is completely surrounded by fans and on the inside we see K-Remix in the passenger seat and Diego Velez driving. K-Remix manages to crawl out of the passenger seat onto the top of the car.

K-Remix — People! PEOPLE! There's enough of the Remix to go around.

Most of the fans seem confused .

Random Fan — What? We're not here for you. We're here for Luis Guzman

K-Remix looks highly offended. Diego who still heard what was said while inside the car starts holding up both middle fingers.

K-Remix — Well okay then.

K-Remix shrugs his shoulders and hops down off the car. He then pushes his way through the crowd of people leaving Diego all alone to deal with the aftermath.


The bell rings and neither man makes a move against the other. In fact, each remains in their corner, attempting to play to the crowd. They battle back and forth, trying to get the audience to cheer louder for them than the other, and soaking it in. It’s not until the referee urges them to begin that they turn their focus back to each other.

Kennelly makes the first move, catching Raven square in the jaw with a shuffle side kick when James tries to charge him. As soon as James hits the mat, Jud drops an elbow into the middle of his chest, knocking the air from his lungs. Kennelly looks to add insult to injury with a knee drop, but Raven rolls out of the way at the last second and Jud gets nothing but canvas.

Before Jud can fully recover, James ground him with a swinging neckbreaker and rains down fists and elbows with a classic ground and pound. Raven is dangerously close to a disqualification, ignoring the referee’s call to break it up, before he finally relents. No sooner has Jud struggled to his feet than James catches him in the back of the head with a running lariat.

Both men are so focused on each other that neither saw ASCENT newcomer Furia de la Merced and his handler Soccoro Romero making their way to the ring! Soccoro gives and order and Furia slides in under the bottom rope. He stands, finally getting the attention of Raven and Kennelly. Before either can react he grabs both men by the back of the head and slams them into each other!

The referee calls for the bell, but Furia ignores it and proceeds to attempt to dismantle both James Raven and Jud Kennelly. The chaos ensues for several minutes before ASCENT’s two referees, the medical staff, and the studio’s security break it up.

Winner: No Contest


The studio darkens as the ring is cleared and the screens cut to Alex Easton as he sits in front of the Ascent logo. He tenses up as Furia de la Merced walks into frame and glares at him before taking in the surroundings. He then looks back and Socorro Romero walks up and he can’t take his eyes away from her striking features. Furia holds her chair while she sits then takes a seat himself. Alex goes to shake her hand and Furia growls so he just gives her an awkward wave and she smiles and nods.

Alex Easton — Right. Now I have a very special interview with Furia de la Merced and Socorro Romero who made a statement last time in our ring. Let’s get some clarification about some of the things you were saying and who you really are. Now Socorro, beginning with the obvious, there is clearly a… unique relationship between yourself and your client. Could you tell us more about that and how it came to be?

Socorro Romero — Yes, I can answer this. We come from a certain area in Spain with a rich history of the occult. I come from an organization that has certain beliefs and ways. I see your face. It can be called a church, a coven or a cult. The name doesn’t matter. What matters right now is that it gives lost souls a purpose. I was raised in this collective and secluded from the outside world. The organization gives its young people a chance to experience the outside world but with a guide and bodyguard. That is where this man comes in. Furia de la Merced was once a homeless drunkard but we transformed him into a disciplined and honest man. In exchange he is tasked with escorting me on my journey to the Outworld. I have taken an extended leave here since I fell in love with the wrestling. I enter him to this job and we are eager to see how it works out.

Alex Easton — What drew you to ASCENT and what do you hope to accomplish while you’re here?

Socorro Romero — There are many things but we liked that it was a fledgling company like his career. We hoped that we could grow together. I have taken him to many promotions big and small and this one is the perfect fit. It is told.

Alex Easton — What, or who, do you think your greatest challenge will be in ASCENT?

Socorro Romero — People do not scare us, especially not me. Our greatest challenge will be to adapt to the rules of the organization. Furia de la Merced has been with many fighting societies that were big and small. Some were honest and some were less reputable. Our greatest challenge will be blending into the culture of this place and coming from behind to win our accolades.

Alex Easton — Is there anyone on the roster you'll be keeping an eye on, and why?

Socorro Romero — All of these creatures fascinate us. The one I would be looking at is the man you call Konstantine. He seems like a tortured soul and I believe we can release him from guilt and he can be whatever he wants to be. Whether he wants to be stopped or not is irrelevant. Lost potential is a true tragedy in any community.

Alex Easton — If you could pick your dream match with anyone on the roster, who would it be and what would you make the stipulation?

Socorro Romero — I am not familiar with everyone but I believe Furia de la Merced would look real well against the current Genesis Champion Scarlett Anthem. I hope Furia’s rise will be as sudden and as quick as hers. And if you use your eyes it can be easy to choose an outcome. If you know using just your eyes is a mistake then you might be able to see what makes her so dangerous. If we had this match for Furia then I think a strap match would be best. We want to play this strategically and a strap match would prevent Anthem from running and it would hurt. A lot. That would be the shortest path to conquering this federation.

Alex Easton — Thank you for this interview.

Socorro Romero — You are very welcome. I know Furia de la Merced is tired of waiting. We have stopped traveling and there hasn’t been much to do except train and train. He is really eager to get back in a ring.


As the recorded interview with Socorro Romero ends, the cameras switch backstage to the office of ASCENT General Manager Erik Hawke. Thus far it seems the GM has been content to watch the goings on from the safety--and peace--of his office without interruption or uncomfortable conversations about social media behavior. All such peace must come to an end, however. The bearded wrestling enthusiast looks up from the stack of papers on his desk as he hears the door to his office open.

Stepping inside is the man facing off for the Genesis Championship, Devin KONSTANTINE. Devoid of his facepaint, he stares intently at Erik. Behind him, Alice van Dyne trickles in, weaving her way around Devin. He jolts out his hand to stop her from progressing any further. She yanks his arm off her shoulder, and she gives her client a rude look.

Alice van Dyne — Good evening, Mr. Hawke, I am here to inform you of what we want to use this nifty contract for!

The young woman places her hands on her waist, smiling brightly.

Alice van Dyne — It isn’t in reference to this match, no, my dumb lug of a client wishes to keep this match clean. Like his face, you see.

She tries to reach up to touch his face, but KONSTANTINE moves his head back. Alice’s exasperated look tells the story. The Last King steps forward.

KONSTANTINE — I want to be able to choose the kind of matches I have.

Erik raises one red brow at the man as he considers what he just heard. While he tries to maintain a neutral expression, there is a hint of curiosity in his eyes.

Erik Hawke — You want to be able to choose the stipulation for not just one match, but all of your matches?

KONSTANTINE — As the only true veteran left, I must test the youth.

Hawke chuckled in spite of himself and leaned back in his chair. After a moment of thought he kicked his feet up onto his desk and folded his hands in his lap.

Erik Hawke — I’m not saying that I agree to this, but indulge me and go on.

KONSTANTINE — If you allow me this, I can truly test the newcomers of this business. I can mold them into something truly spectacular. For ASCENT has seen many come and go that weren’t worth a damn. It’s my role to further push those who are here. That is the best way to make true competition and people that can truly elevate this business to grander heights.

Alice shoves in past her client.

Alice van Dyne — Future, blah, blah, bloodshed, blah blah, basically, it’s either give us that or we use this contract for something more nefarious. This time, it’d involve one of our lovely affiliates. We use this contract to set up a match over in Elysium Pro.

Erik Hawke — While I value Elysium as an affiliate, what exactly would that do for ASCENT?

Alice snickers.

Alice van Dyne — Competiton is always necessary. Using this contract to go, say, kick one of theirs in the throat might spark up some interest, some fanfare. For, as you see, ASCENT has not been able to truly stop my client. He might have lost out for the Genesis Championship, but that was amidst horrendous chaos. If he wins tonight, then he’ll be a nigh-undefeated destroyer. And that kind of person needs more. So, I do have a final suggestion. This one comes from my mind, and it alone.

KONSTANTINE seems to react to that, cocking his head at the diminutive lady.

Alice van Dyne — If neither of two offers are interesting to you, then how about an open challenge to the world? Many people, like some vapid departures, love the thrill of walking into a place and winning the most coveted prize. If my client is to win tonight, why not open the doors for some ignorant fool to press their luck?

While Erik nods his acknowledgement to Alice, he speaks to Konstantine.

Erik Hawke — So, you’re asking either to be able to choose the stipulations for your ASCENT matches going forward, or to bring someone from Elysium here? Or, alternately, to issue an open challenge, should you be the victor tonight?

Alice van Dyne — It’s your decision since you’re the man who approves everything.

Alice speaks in quite the airy tone, which gets a guttural groan from her client.

Erik Hawke — With no disrespect meant to the lady, which do you actually want, Konstantine?

KONSTANTINE — If controlling the fates of our roster doesn’t fancy you, then the open challenge. That is if I win.

There is almost a sliver of humor in KONSTANTINE’s tone.

Erik Hawke — And what are your thoughts on the Elysium matter?

KONSTANTINE — That is where Finale went to run to. So, there must be something of worth there as well. I know Elina holds gold there as well. If she fares well there, the talent that she is, I believe it’s imperative to see just how strong our friends from across the way are. If I hold our championship, then the stakes are higher for me to decimate them, yes?

Before the GM can answer the question, an unexpected voice sounds from behind Konstantine and Alice.

Jasper Kincaid — I think that sounds more than reasonable, personally.

Erik looks from Alice to Jasper, taking his feet down from the desk. He clearly wasn’t expecting a visit from the company owner this evening.

Erik Hawke — I’m not inclined to deny the request for choosing his own match stipulations. He did win the favor, after all, but I think our focus ought to remain on ASCENT, rather than other places.

Alice scans them both before huffing.

Alice van Dyne — How about you all just come to a decision and get back to us? It doesn’t have to be finalized tonight, especially since Devvy over here has a championship to try to win. Unless he screws up, of course!

KONSTANTINE’s belligerence is apparent, but he simply turns to leave. Alice pushes him closer to the door, or rather, she tries. He does have a hundred pound size advantage over her attempt. When they get to the door, Alice gives up and moves past her client. KONSTANTINE, however, remains in the room. He turns to them both.

KONSTANTINE — Do be swift; we don’t have forever.

With his final words echoing in the room, he leaves.


Viola starts off the match on the offensive, incensed by her losses so far. She lays into K-Remix with a vicious series of thigh kicks until K’s muscle seizes up before taking him down with a chop block to the back of the same leg. As K-Remix goes down she backs across the ring and then surges forward for a running senton that rattles his cage. She backs up again, perhaps looking for a running double stomp, but Remix has the presence of mind to get to his feet to avoid the attack.

Wolff looks for another kick, but K catches her leg and spins her down to the canvas with a dragon screw leg whip. Viola tries to scramble away, but K is able to lock in a Peruvian necktie submission before she can. Wolff tries in vain to break free before she realizes her only hope at getting out is to force the break. She shouts at the referee to shut up when he asks if she wants to give up, and somehow manages to inch her way to the bottom rope.

No sooner has K-Remix let go of the submission than he leaps to his feet and straight up on top of the nearest turnbuckle. Viola’s barely even started to recover as K sails off sky-high with a moonsault and then hooks the leg for a pin after impact. The referee gets to the two before Wolff gets her shoulder up. K looks frustrated, but keeps his cool confidence and gets to his feet. He steps back, taunting Viola and urging her to stand back up and come at him.

Viola grabs the ref by the arm and points to a man sitting in the front row. She insists that he threw something at her, though it’s obvious the man was only watching the match. While the official is distracted, Wolff lunges at K-Remix and hits a low blow! K goes down in pain, shouting for the referee to disqualify her. The ref looks suspiciously at Wolff, but he didn’t see the shot and can’t call for a DQ.

Still in pain, K-Remix hauls himself to his feet using the ropes. He glares daggers across the ring at Viola, who blows him a kiss. Wolff races in, looking for a standing hurricanrana, but K reverses with impressive speed and drives her into the mat with a half nelson asai DDT that gets the crowd on its feet chanting his name. Wolff staggers back to a vertical position, swinging wildly at K-Remix. K ducks out of range like he’s in a Kung Fu movie and then steps into position for the Million Dollar Remix! Viola holds out for as long as she can, but is forced to tap out!

Winner: K-Remix


Away from the eyes of fans and talent alike, General Manager Erik Hawke has shut his door to keep his meeting with ASCENT Owner Jasper Kincaid a private affair. The papers on his desk have been set aside, and his focus is entirely on Kincaid after the unexpected arrival during his conversation with Konstantine.

Erik Hawke — You are, of course, the boss, but you did hire me for my expertise. I think I’d be remiss in not being honest with you, and I’m not sure that we need to—

Jasper Kincaid — I am.

Kincaid’s words were cool, and calculated.

Jasper Kincaid — We’re paying these men and women for their talent, to perform. We both know that you’ve got some under performers on your hands. Cut the dead weight.

With a sigh, Erik gives a nod of concession.

Erik Hawke — I’ll terminate James Raven after tonight. He’s failed entirely to live up to expectations.

Jasper seems mostly satisfied with the answer.

Jasper Kincaid — As for the others?

Erik Hawke — If you’ll humor me on a three strikes policy, they’ve both got one more.

After a moment of consideration, Kincaid nods his consent.

Jasper Kincaid — That’s fair. Is it true what heard about the young lady...

Erik Hawke — Elina, yes.

Erik frowns deeply.

Erik Hawke — She’s extremely talented, a gem for any roster, but she needs to step away for the time being after tonight. Hopefully we can get her back when she’s ready.

Jasper Kincaid — Do what you feel you need to. As you said, I did hire you for your expertise. I’ll leave you to it, and I think I’ll hang around for the rest of the show. I like what you’ve been doing.

Hawke is relieved to hear it, and relaxes some in his chair. He knew the company would come with growing pains, and he was prepared to continue to face them. Knowing the owner was behind him was all that mattered.


Socorro Romero is still giving orders to Furia de la Merced as the bell rings. Being the competitor that she is, Elina seizes the opportunity and hits a running double knee in the corner. Socorro shouts something in spanish at Furia, slamming her hands against the mat in frustration. Cartel keeps her eyes on both Furia and his handler, ducking under a huge shot from Furia and using the middle turnbuckle for a flying forearm!

Furia staggers back from the impact, but seems otherwise unfazed. The throws his huge arms around Elina and whips her over with a belly-to-belly suplex that makes his much smaller opponent look like a rag doll. Methodically, Furia goes for the pin but gets only one before Elina gets the shoulder up. Furia wastes no time getting back to his feet and goes for a stomp, but Cartel is able to roll out of the way and avoid the potentially devastating shot.

Furia waits until Elina is back on her feet before charging her and knocking her back to the canvas with a lariat. Socorro shouts gleefully from the outside. Furia drops and goes right into a barrage of mounted punches that it seems Elina has no way of escaping. The crowd is behind her, cheering her name, but she can only deflect as much of the damage as possible until the referee waves Furia off and gives her the chance to stand.

As Furia closes in Cartel sends a foot into his gut. He catches her leg but she reverses into an enziguri. Despite looking a little unsteady on her feet, Elina launches right into a flurry of MMA-style kicks and strikes that slowly drive Furia back toward the corner while the crowd cheers her on. While Furia is shaking off the volley Cartel backs to the opposite corner and races in for a running high knee. Furia falls out of the corner and Elina makes the cover but gets only one before she is thrown bodily off of Furia.

The big man gets to his feet with surprising speed and stalks his opponent on the command of Socorro. With a huge hand he catches Elina by the throat for the Colgador, his choke lift! He holds her off of the mat for what seems like an eternity as she kicks wildly, trying to break free. Finally, Furia tosses Cartel into the turnbuckles. Elina thinks fast and grabs the top rope to steady herself as she hops up onto the top turnbuckle. She leaps off as Furia closes in, looking for a hurricanrana, but he catches her! There’s no way for Cartel to break free and Furia hits La Merced! Elina is down Furia makes the pin getting One… Two… Three for the win!

Winner: Furia de la Merced


As Soccoro ushers her client backstage and Elina makes her departure after shaking hands with some of the fans in the front row, the Ascension theme, “Tonight,” hits the sound system in the studio once again. Much to everyone’s surprise, it’s Owner Jasper Kincaid that appears at the top of the ramp and not GM Erik Hawke. Even announcer Daniela Martinez seems put off by his arrival, but she recovers quickly and offers him her microphone when he steps into the ring.

Jasper Kincaid — That last match was quite a spectacle, wasn’t it?

The question draws a loud round of applause from the crowd.

Jasper Kincaid — ASCENT is all about the spectacle, which I think we proved with our first show and that Date with Destiny Ladder Match. I knew I’d hired the right man to be my General Manager after that. And, in keeping with what we have brought you so far, I think it’s time we keep pushing the envelope.

The cheers of the crowd have died to a murmur as they speculate on just what it is Kincaid might be talking about.

Jasper Kincaid — Waiting in the wings for just the right moment to make its appearance has been the Apex Championship. I think tonight is the night, and I think that moment is now.

Kincaid is forced to pause for a few moments until he can be heard over the excited cheers.

Jasper Kincaid — A number of people on ASCENT’s roster have proven that they belong not just here, but anywhere they take their name. Some people are still struggling to prove themselves, and I believe they deserve that opportunity, how about you?

Once again Jasper is answered with enthusiastic cheers. The front row is on its feet, shouting names they feel deserve to be in the match.

Jasper Kincaid — There’s no denying that Scarlett Anthem has proven herself. She is, after all, the Genesis Champion. So, how could I exclude her? Scarlett will be the first competitor in this championship match…

The excitement grows to a fever pitch, even as a few fans whisper amongst themselves that it means Scarlett will have to wrestle two matches in a row.

Jasper Kincaid — And her opponent will be… the team of James Raven, Jud Kennelly, and Viola Wolff! Should Jud, James, and Viola come out victorious, they will square off against one another for the Apex Championship at the next Ascension!

There are a few scattered applause, but the crowd is reeling at the announcement of a three-on-one handicap match that pits the odds against Genesis Champion, Scarlett Anthem.

Jasper Kincaid — I don’t know about the rest of you, but I want to see that match, right now!

Kincaid steps out of the ring, taking up a spot at the announcer’s table a Daniela nervously prepares to announce the unexpected match.


As the bell rings the unlikely team of James Raven, Jud Kennelly, and Viola Wolff is still arguing over who will be the first in on their side of the ring while Scarlett waits on the other. James and Jud, still heated from their match earlier, begin shoving one another. Viola takes the chance to duck between the ropes and begin things for her “team.” She takes it furiously to Scarlett, grounding her with a leg scissors takedown and following up with a soccer ball kick. She leaves Anthem in a heap and goes for the top rope, looking for a diving knee drop. Scarlett evades just in time, and Viola rolls to her corner clutching her leg. Jud Kennelly tags himself in, to the annoyance of both of his partners.

Scarlett is ready for Kennelly, catching him on the side of the head with a Pele kick as he charges. Jud staggers back into the ropes, but doesn’t go down. Anthem ducks in for a discus punch, but Jud catches her arm and reverses into a one knee backbreaker. Jud looks for a front facelock, but Scarlett has the presence of mind to get a hand on the ropes before he can lock it in, forcing an early break. Kennelly argues with the referee, giving Anthem the opportunity to knock him onto his back and let the mounted punches fly. The crowd cheers her on and counts along with every shot before the officially finally waves her off.

Kennelly scrambles to the corner where Viola tags herself back in, earning a verbal barrage from James Raven. Wolff launches herself over the top rope and right into a diving crossbody that flattens Scarlett, which she rolls into a pin. Anthem gets her shoulder up after just one. Viola reaches down and starts to pull Scarlett up by the hair, but Anthem slaps her hands away and breaks free. Leaping up, she grabs Viola and falls back for a double knee facebreaker! Wolff snaps back into the ropes, where James Raven makes a tag that Scarlett doesn’t see. Anthem blasts Viola with her Seeing Red flying thrust kick and makes the pin, but the referee tells her that Viola isn’t the legal person!

Scarlett looks up just in time to see James leaping over the top rope for his Ravensault, once again knocking Anthem to the canvas and rolling into a pin for One… Two… and Scarlett gets the shoulder up again! James snarls something at the referee and grabs one of Scarlett’s legs, looking for a heel hook. Anthem rolls over quickly and sends her free foot into his face, knocking him back before he can apply the submission maneuver.

Anthem takes James down with an armdrag when he charges her again, and then she goes for the top rope. Scarlett waits until Raven is just getting to his feet before she goes for the meteora, taking him down once more. James rolls to the ropes so that Anthem can’t make the pin, and begins to pull himself up. The moment Raven takes a step toward her, Scarlett sends him back to the ropes with a bicycle kick. On the rebound she hits him with a discus punch that leaves him laying on the mat. With the cheers of the fans egging her on, she goes for the top turnbuckle, leaping of for The Anthem and picking up One… Two… Three!

Winner: Scarlett Anthem


No sooner has the referee raised Scarlett’s arm in victory and handed her the Apex Championship than the music dies down and Jasper Kincaid rises from his seat.

Jasper Kincaid — Congratulations, Scarlett. You beat the odds and proved to everyone just what sort of competitor you are. For the moment you’re both the Apex and Genesis Champion. Everyone give it up for Scarlett.

The crowd does just that as Scarlett looks skeptically toward the company owner, who meets her gaze.

Jasper Kincaid — After a match like that, you certainly deserve a rest. Unfortunately you’re still slated to defend the Genesis Championship against Konstantine, and we can’t deny the fans what they’ve come to see.

Almost nervously, Scarlett gives a nod of agreement, even though she’s exhausted.

Jasper Kincaid — Take as much rest as you can in the next few minutes, my dear, and then we’ll see if you can overcome the odds twice in one night.

The music rises again and Scarlett ducks out of the ring, heading back up to the stage to make her exit as Ascension takes a brief intermission.


As the fans settle back into their seats, the introduction of "Rain" by Mai Yamane comes in a haunting tune of a church organ.

Daniela Martinez — The following contest is our Main Event for the evening, a Genesis Championship match scheduled for one fall. Introducing first, the challenger, n his way to the ring, from La Fábrica del Infierno… KONSTANTINE!

The studio falls into a deep red as KONSTANTINE makes his way onto the stage. He looks directly into the ring, his piercing light eyes dropping on that alone. The fog that lingers around threatens to swallow him whole. Yet, he does not stand there long. The crowd is at a hush, feeling the emanating force of the solemn destroyer of man. It takes what feels like an eternity for KONSTANTINE to break away from his statue-like stance at the tip of the stage. Once he does, there is an eerie motion to it all, a burst of energy summoning forth effort to move.

He starts his way down the ramp, a methodical march to war. His stance is loose, teasing his black coat to whip around. As Mai belts out the depressive lyrics, KONSTANTINE reaches the end of the walkway. He closes his eyes and brings his hand up to his face, lightly touching the messy facepaint there. He continues into the ring where he stays on the mat for a moment. He raises slowly, cracking the joints of his body. KONSTANTINE, the self-proclaimed Last King, gives a wanton glance to the audience, only giving them that remnant of care. But just as soon as he cast it, his eyes drift to the matter at hand… the match. There’s a small, almost annoyed look on is face, as if he doesn’t entirely approve of what’s transpiring.

Daniela Martinez — And his opponent, the reigning Genesis Champion, hailing from Toronto, Ontario, Canada… Scarlet Anthem!

The ethereal synth lines of “Option” by Crosses start in, synced with a set of sweeping red, white and gold laser lights panning the crowd. The slow initial pulse of the drums times to Scarlett Anthem stepping out from behind the curtain to stand atop the ramp, still looking a little worse for wear after the match she just competed in.

The Genesis Championship rests on one shoulder, and the Apex Championship on the other. Once the groove of the song kicks in to it’s galloping tempo, Scarlett is moving down the ramp with purpose, clapping hands with a big, welcoming smile full of energy and buoyancy on her way down to the ring where she slides in under the ropes and sets herself into her corner, prepping for the match.

Raina Miles — I can’t believe Scarlett has to defend the Genesis Championship after she just had a three-on-one handicap match. Something’s not right here.

Matthew Lennox — Do you suppose this has anything to do with that favor from the GM that Konstantine earned in the Date with Destiny Ladder match?

Raina Miles — I would say yes, if it weren’t Jasper Kincaid who had come out here and made the Apex Championship match. I don’t think our GM had anything to do with this.

Matthew Lennox — Well we can’t ignore the fact that right now, Scarlett Anthem is a double champion, holding both the Genesis and Apex Championships. She could very well walk out of the studio tonight with both of them.

The referee quickly checks both Konstantine and Scarlett for hidden weapons and foreign objects before he calls for the bell. Anthem seems noticeably slowed after her last match, but that doesn’t stop her from moving out of her corner while the chime of the bell still hangs in the air. Scarlett is focused and determined as she circles her opponent, waiting for the right moment before hitting a standing dropkick. Konstantine is driven back to the ropes, but catches himself and never takes his eyes off of Anthem.

Scarlett surges in again, right into a European uppercut from Konstantine. Anthem is staggered, but undeterred. She charges a second time, and Konstantine delivers a big boot for her efforts. Where Scarlett is impassioned and driven, Konstantine remains calm and methodical, watching for the rookie to make her mistakes.

Scarlett grasps Konstantine by the forearm and whips him toward the ropes. The Last King reverses and sends Anthem there instead, catching her on the rebound for a huge spinebuster. Konstantine takes a few steps back, as though getting ready for a running kick, but Scarlett gets to her feet yet again. For his part Konstantine almost looks impressed.

Matthew Lennox — It’s so odd seeing Konstantine without his face paint tonight. Almost like he’s a different person without it.

Raina Miles — I agree, but I’m not sure I like this any better, if I’m being honest.

Konstantine ducks around and locks in a half nelson, looking for a bulldog. Scarlett uses the momentum and runs up the turnbuckle, flipping over her taller opponent for a shiranui! Fighting to keep her momentum going, Anthem hits a headscissor takedown the moment Konstantine is vertical again. She seizes the chance to mount up for a barrage of punches, which the audience counts off like a metronome.


Leaving Konstantine where he’s laying, Scarlett climbs to the top of the turnbuckle, facing out toward the crowd. She raises her arms for a few moments, taking in the sight and sound of them cheering for her before she leaps off backwards, sailing through the air with a senton bomb that hits the bullseye. She hooks the leg as fast as she can for a pin.


The Last King gets the shoulder up in plenty of time, leaving the crowd groaning in disappointment and a tired Scarlett Anthem looking frustrated. Both wrestlers rise at the same time, but Anthem makes the first move, going for a spin kick that’s unexpected and catches Konstantine off guard.

Raina Miles — Scarlett Anthem impressive so far as she holds off Konstantine in her second match of the night.

Matthew Lennox — She’s taking a gamble with those high risk maneuvers, hoping to wear Konstantine down quickly. It could pay off, or it could backfire.

Konstantine comes back with a tiger suplex that levels Scarlett, following with a running kick that she’s unable to avoid. Anthem rolls to the ropes where she knows she can’t be pinned, keeping herself aware of her surroundings. She stands, ready for Konstantine when he charges and catching him with a Yakuza kick.

As he staggers she goes for the top rope again, looking for a hurricanrana! In an impressive display of strength, Konstantine catches her outright and transitions seamlessly into a sitout powerbomb. He folds forward for the pin as the crowd shouts for Scarlett to keep going.


Raina Miles — She’s not done yet! Even after that, Scarlett Anthem is still going.

Matthew Lennox — You’ve got to hand it to her, she’s been impressive since day one here in ASCENT.

Konstantine, who has been patient so far, maintains his cool but picks up the pace as he stands and hauls Scarlett to her feet. The Last King drives Anthem to the corner with a series of three big European uppercuts, followed by a corner splash. As Scarlett staggers out from the corner, he hits a rear mat sitout slam that echoes through the studio. A small segment of the crowd cheers for Konstantine, much as he predicted, while the rest tries to rally Scarlett.

Konstantine allows Anthem to get to her feet, circling the ring slowly as she orients herself. For a moment the two lock eyes before he charges in, catching her with a vicious Point Blank spear that nearly folds her in half. Konstantine goes again for the pin, leveraging his bodyweight into it.


Somehow, Scarlett has the presence of mind to throw her foot out and break the count even when she can’t get her shoulder up. Konstantine shakes his head at how she prolongs the inevitable, but doesn’t argue with the referee. He simply stands, and allows Scarlett to do the same.

Anthem digs into her reserves, finding a second wind, or is it a third, when Konstantine charges. She takes him down with an arm drag that slings him part way across the ring. He comes back with a crooked arm lariat, but Anthem ducks under and hits a pele kick from behind. The Last King recovers quickly and goes for a belly-to-belly, but Scarlett lands on her feet!

The audience cheers louder yet as the pair lock eyes.

Matthew Lennox — ASCENT fans are getting every dime’s worth tonight. Two title matches, and the second is just as good as the first. Neither of these two ever fails to impress.

Anthem throws everything she has at Konstantine. A dropkick to create some distance. A bicycle kick to wear him down. An unexpected eat defeat racks up the damage and leaves The Last King on the canvas long enough for her to go to the top yet again. She pauses and takes aim as the crowd holds its breath. She leaps off with shaky legs for The Anthem and makes the pin!


Konstantine gets the shoulder up before the three and some of the air leaves the room. Anthem, winded, looks to the referee for confirmation and he holds up just two fingers. Though showing signs of the wear and tear the match has had on him, Konstantine is first to his feet.

He pulls Scarlett up by the back of her ring gear. When she doubles over to catch her breath, he hits a double underhook backbreaker that leaves her reeling. Leaving nothing to chance, Konstantine drags her up again and takes her down with the half nelson bulldog she had evaded earlier. Konstantine whips Anthem to the ropes. She hops up and uses the middle rope for a springboard attack!

But Konstantine catches her with an arm across the collar, holding her suspended off of the mat for a moment before following through with his Midnight Murder Scene! The Last King shoves Anthem onto her back with one arm and hooks the leg for the pin.


The bell sounds and Konstantine sits on the mat for a moment or two, looking down at Scarlett who realizes what has just happened. Over the roar of the crowd it’s impossible to tell, but it looks like Konstantine says something to her before he gets to his feet.

“Rain” by Mai Yamane fills the studio as the referee raises Konstantine’s hand high into the air. Scarlett rolls out from under the bottom rope, almost unable to stand on her own two feet for the first several seconds. She seizes the Apex Championship from ringside and heads quickly to the back. Konstantine spares a single glance over his shoulder before his eyes sweep across the crowd and he soaks in the announcement.

Daniela Martinez — Here is your winner, and NEW Genesis Champion… KONSTANTINE!

Raina Miles — Our third show, and our third Genesis Champion. There’s no denying that the competition here in ASCENT is stiff. Scarlett Anthem gave it her all, but Konstantine won the night.

Matthew Lennox — I would argue he split the night, given that Scarlett walked away with Apex Championship.

Raina Miles — Don’t split hairs with me, Matthew.

Konstantine continues to soak in his victory as his theme plays out to the end and the studio lights begin to dim.


In the parking area, Alex Easton scans the staff entrance/exit for the former Genesis Champion, Scarlett Anthem, who was supposed to meet him here after the show but is nowhere to be seen. Near an array of parked cars, a plume of smoke wafting into the air followed by the sound of echoing laughter of three or four people catches his attention.

With a camera person in tow, and a frown set upon his brow, Alex shifts between parked cars until he lays eyes on Scarlett Anthem herself leaning against a car giggling tiredly with a man, whom those behind the scenes have met as Marco, and another man whose back is to us. They pass a joint between them, landing in Scarlett’s fingers. She takes a hit and Alex Easton urges the camera up and to start recording.

At the sight of the camera, and Alex Easton prepping his microphone, Scarlett kills the joint with a wince between her fingers.

Alex Easton — Scarlett Anthem!

She feigns a smile and pushes herself away from the vehicle, stepping in the way of the camera angle so as not to catch Marco or the other man on camera.

Scarlett Anthem — Hey, Alex!

Alex tries to peek at the men behind her, but Scarlett shifts her head to block his view. Alex narrows his eyes.

Alex Easton — Big match tonight. We had an interview scheduled. You almost stood me up.

Scarlett Anthem — We did?

She staves off a giggle.

Scarlett Anthem — Well, I had some things to take care of.

Alex Easton — I see that. Any comments on your match with Konstantine?

Scarlett rolls her shoulder, her eyes softly narrowing at Alex.

Scarlett Anthem — What’s to comment on? Konstantine put up a good fight, and he gets to walk away with the Genesis Championship. It was one loss. I’ll get it back. I still have my Golden Ticket.

Alex Easton — That’s true. But—

Scarlett Anthem — Look, I’m not going to stand here on ceremony, Alex. I missed our scheduled interview spot, and for that I’m sorry, but here you are, still getting an interview. So, yeah, here goes.

She shifts her weight from one leg to the other, looking down at the ground, gathering her thoughts.

Scarlett Anthem — It was yet another night when I came out and proved I belong here in Ascent, no matter the outcome of any match, no matter the competitor they pit me against. It was another night in which I, Scarlett Anthem, came out to prove to anyone who may doubt my fitness to compete as a top tier superstar for this company. I am single-handedly taking this company upon my shoulders and carrying it, and there isn’t a single person inside or outside of it who can dispute that, because even though Konstantine may have taken the Genesis Championship from me, I’m the company’s first Apex Champion. And this is just the beginning. The best is yet to come, Alex. Count on it.

She eyed him with finality, like she’d punctuated her sentence with a period stated solely with a look that could press metal. She adjusted the Apex Championship on her shoulder before she turned away from Alex Easton and back to Marco. Alex watched her rejoin the other two, and without a look back they left.

Ascension 3 draws to a close as Easton watches the three of them leave, a concerned expression on his face.