In the latest episode of SmackDown, the stage was set for Clash At The Castle as several intriguing storylines unfolded. While some aspects garnered praise, others left fans scratching their heads. The emphasis on storytelling over pure wrestling showcased the long-term planning that Triple H's WWE is known for, but left some yearning for more intense in-ring action.

One notable development was the emergence of a new undercard feud between Piper Niven and Bayley. Niven will be challenging Bayley, but in an unexpected twist, she also displayed her allegiance to Chelsea Green, acting as her muscle. The dynamic between these powerful women promises to add a layer of excitement to upcoming clashes.

However, the highlight of the night came when AJ Styles managed to deceive Cody Rhodes into accepting another WWE Title match on the Scottish PLE. Though risky, given their past encounters where Cody was left looking foolish, Friday's segment elicited an electric response from the crowd. Styles' cunning manipulation has only heightened anticipation for their upcoming showdown.

While the show leaned heavily on storytelling, it did not neglect the in-ring action entirely. Although not the primary focus, the matches delivered decent performances. The night's emphasis, however, clearly lay on laying the groundwork for future scorching encounters that will surely satisfy fans seeking intense wrestling showdowns.

Amidst the mostly positive reception, one decision raised eyebrows and left many unenthusiastic. The lackluster undercard storyline failed to captivate audiences and seemed out of place among the otherwise intriguing narratives. It was a puzzling misstep from someone who should know better, leaving fans questioning its purpose.

Nonetheless, Triple H's WWE continues to impress, despite the ongoing string of "B" level international pay-per-views. SmackDown's Clash At The Castle preparations demonstrate the organization's commitment to crafting compelling narratives that resonate with fans over the long haul.

In conclusion, SmackDown's latest episode showcased the evolving storylines for Clash At The Castle. While the emphasis on storytelling received mixed reviews, the stage is set for thrilling matches in the future. As the event approaches, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the clash between AJ Styles and Cody Rhodes for the WWE Title, while also keeping a watchful eye on the unfolding drama surrounding Piper Niven, Bayley, and Chelsea Green. With Triple H at the helm, WWE's momentum remains strong, ensuring an exciting road ahead for fans of professional wrestling.