[Wrr.]

[Click.]

[The Temple is dim. A single spotlight rests on the center of the ring.]

[Edward Newton stands alone. The OSW World Championship sits over his shoulder.]

[Newton slowly runs a finger across the faceplate of the title, admiring it like a curious artifact.]

Edward Newton: “Funny thing about answers.”

[He taps his temple.]

Edward Newton: “People think they want them.”

[A slight shrug.]

Edward Newton: “But most men… are far more comfortable with questions.”

[“Game Over” roars through the Temple as Dr. Cube appears at the doors.]

[The World Champion without his world.]

[Cube pauses at the entrance, walks down to the ring, and stands across from the Riddler. The tension is immediate.]

Dr. Cube: “Edward Newton.”

[Cube gestures to the title.]

Dr. Cube: “Tell me… does it feel satisfying? Holding something you didn’t earn?”

[Newton smirks faintly.]

Edward Newton: “Oh, I didn’t steal this.”

[He holds the title up.]

Edward Newton: “I borrowed it.”

[A pause.]

Edward Newton: “Consider it… incentive.”

[Cube studies him carefully.]

Dr. Cube: “You think this is a game.”

Edward Newton: “No.”

[Newton shakes his head.]

Edward Newton: “I think you think it’s a game.”

[Cube slowly begins circling Newton.]

Edward Newton: “You see, Doctor… that’s the difference between us.”

[He lifts the championship again.]

Edward Newton: “You think you’re the Game Master.”

[A beat.]

Edward Newton: “But every game needs an answer.”

[Silence.]

[Newton looks down at the championship.]

Edward Newton: “And this…”

[He holds out the belt.]

Edward Newton: “…is the price of the question.”

[Cube reaches out, but Newton snatches it away.]

Edward Newton: “Invasion. One on one. No War Machine. Just us.”

[Cube studies him carefully.]

Dr. Cube: “I’ll agree to your terms, and add one of my own. If you want the championship…”

[The screen glitches for a moment.]

Dr. Cube: “You must play my game.”

[Newton stares at him.]

[A long pause.]

[For a moment, it looks like he might answer.]

[Instead…]

[Newton simply smiles.]

[He steps past Cube.]

[Then through the ropes.]

[And begins walking up the ramp.]

[Cube turns slowly, watching him leave.]

[Static covers the screen as a Play ► symbol appears in the bottom right-hand corner.]

Black Scar: “We’ve got ourselves a World Championship match for Invasion!”

Signal: “Edward Newton will challenge Dr. Cube for that title. What will happen when these two mental behemoths collide?”

Black Scar: “And what will the future Invasion winner change about their plans?”

Signal: Well we may well about to see a mugging here as Jack Standard finds himself in a handicap match against three seasoned competitors.

Black Scar: That idiot signed his own death sentence talking about real wrestling and talking down on every gimmick wrestler. He’s about to pay the piper here and I can’t wait.

[The bell sounds as Jack Standard rushes forward, THAT DAMN KICK! Running Savate Kick nails El Tropico right in the jaw but Jack can’t capitalize as he’s immediately spun around]

[GOOZLE! Biel Toss into the corner by Jurassic as Standard is tossed hard into the steel. Jack struggles to stand as Colossus rushes forward]

[SQUASHING HIM INTO THE CORNER WITH A HARD AVALANCHE SPLASH!]

[Jack is stunned as Jurassic pulls him out, throwing him forward.]

[EL OCASO! Flying Cutter out of nowhere by Crimson Eclipse. The Guardian dropping down for the cover,]

[ONE]

[………]

[HE PULLS THE SHOULDER UP!]

Black Scar: That could’ve been it there but they want to punish the Backbone tonite.

Signal: It may well backfire on them if they’re not careful. Standard is very slippery.

[Crimson pulls Jack up, throwing him to Jurassic who tries to lift him up but Standard rolls down his back, rolling him up into a school boy.]

[ONE]

[……….]

[JACK HAS THE TIGHTS]

[TW…CRIMSON BREAKS IT UP WITH A BOOT TO THE SKULL!]

[Standard staggers up right into a hard kick to the gut before he’s spun around again and lifted up by Colossus.]

[POWERBOMB!]

[A SECOND!]

[A THIRD!]

[Jurassic lifts him up for a fourth but instead of planting him down, he spins before throwing Jack backwards]

[RIGHT INTO A SAVATE KICK!]

[Standard looks out cold, the pair pull him up as El Tropico staggers up finally. The pair signal for him to get up top as they lift Jack onto their shoulders. ]

Signal: This can’t be good for Standard here.

[Standard slips off their shoulders, rolling back as he pushes Jurrassic into the ropes. The Behemoth stumbles forward, crotching El Tropico on the ropes and tangling up in the ropes at the same time.]

[Crimson notices, turning around and rushing at Jack. Standard ducks a clothesline.]

[DICK KICK CITY! Crimson is doubled over as Standard rolls him up into a small package]

[ONE]

[…………]

[TWO]

[STANDARD HAS THE TIGHTS]

[Jurrassic just gets himself unstuck]

[THREE!!!]

Signal: The upset of a century here by the crafty veteran. Somehow stealing the victory here with a victory that’s as cheap as you can get.

Black Scar: Hey, victory’s a victory and in these circumstances, Standard excelled in getting that win.

[Recorded earlier…]

[Students sit quietly at their desks, the scratching of pencils on paper filling the classroom.]

[The analogue clock on the wall strikes three, and the school bell rings out.]

[Academius rises from his seat and claps his hands together.]

Academius: “Ok, children, that’s all the time we have today. Remember your homework assignments. You’re dismissed.”

[Chairs scrape against the floor as the kids stand. They pack their books and stationary into their bags, sling them over their shoulders, then file out of the classroom, chatting happily.]

[Academius hums to himself as he grabs an eraser and holds it up to the chalkboard.]

Reverend Blackheart: “Oh, no, no, nooo-ah… You can’t erase His word!”

[The Scholar closes his eyes and sighs. Setting down the eraser, he turns to face the towering Reverend Blackheart.]

Academius: “OSW promised me that my workplace would be closely-guarded information…”

[The Heart of Darkness chuckles without mirth.]

Reverend Blackheart: “They didn’t give you up. Children-uh, are notoriously bad at keepin’ secrets-ah, Teach.”

[Academius smiles.]

Academius: “So it would seem, Rev.”

[The corner of Blackheart’s mouth hitches.]

[He shoulder-checks Academius – who keeps his cool – and nods at the chalkboard behind him.]

Reverend Blackheart: “What is… This?”

[The Professor frowns.]

Academius: “It’s your specialist subject. I’ve been teaching my pupils world religion.”

[Indeed, the board is filled with mind-maps and information regarding all major religions.]

[Blackheart seems to gulp down a mouthful of something unpleasant.]

Reverend Blackheart: “World religion? Religion is my world-ah.”

Academius: “Then I’m sure you’ll agree it’s an important subject.”

[The Root of all Evil turns and looks down on Academius.]

Reverend Blackheart: “Christianity is an important subject-uh – the most important-ah!”

[The educator stands firm.]

Academius: “I teach many religions to give my students a wide knowledge base. One faith doesn’t get preferential treatment over another.”

[The Reverend leans in close.]

Reverend Blackheart: “It should.”

[Grimacing once more at the board, he turns to exit the classroom.]

Reverend Blackheart: “I’ll be askin’ the younglings in my congregation about your class-uh, Academius. I pray that you alter your curriculum-ah.”

[He leaves.]

[Academius picks up the eraser, looks at the board… Then sets it back down again.]

[EXT. MOLVANIA — NIGHT.]

[The same narrow alley as before. Rain drips from rusted fire escapes. The single streetlamp flickers.]

[Marvolo waits beneath it, tense.]

[Footsteps echo from the darkness.]

[The shadowed figure emerges again — body swallowed in black, the mask still hidden except for the sharp triangular point rising from its crown.]

[He stops several paces away.]

The Man: “The Custodians are angry.”

[Marvolo exhales.]

Marvolo: “I can see that.”

The Man: “You had one job.”

[A pause.]

The Man: “That’s why you were sent here.”

[He gestures vaguely to the city beyond.]

The Man: “That’s why OSW was brought to Molvania.”

[Marvolo shifts uncomfortably.]

The Man: And now the rift has been opened.”

[The words hang heavy.]

The Man: We did not want that.”

[A beat.]

The Man: “You’ve failed.”

[Marvolo runs a hand through his hair.]

Marvolo: “I tried.”

[A step forward.]

Marvolo: “You think I can control every luchador in OSW?”

[He gestures angrily toward the arena in the distance.]

Marvolo: “I can’t be held responsible for every action they take!”

[The Man doesn’t move.]

The Man: “You must stem the tide.”

[A pause.]

The Man: “Because the rift will grow.”

[Another step back into the shadows.]

The Man: “Bigger… and bigger… the more you fail.”

[He turns to leave.]

Marvolo: “Hey!”

[The Man stops.]

Marvolo: “I preferred it when we were friends.”

[Silence.]

[Without turning, the Man replies.]

The Man: “You never had friends.”

[A beat.]

The Man: “Only people you used to get what you wanted.”

[He walks deeper into the darkness.]

The Man: “Now you’re the one being used.”

[The footsteps fade.]

[Marvolo stands alone beneath the flickering streetlamp.]

[The light sputters… then steadies.]

[Cut.]

[The ring is furnished like a classroom. Academius twirls his trademark wooden ruler between his fingers. Siniestro picks up a globe!]

Black Scar: “As a schoolboy, I was well-acquainted with old hickory, Siggy…”

[El Frio swings the globe over his head, but The Professor SLAPS the ruler across his ribs!]

[WHACK!]

[The sicario sinks to his knees–]

[CRACK!]

[Academius SNAPS the ruler over his back!]

Signal: “I hope those are freebies!”

[The Scholar looks to the crowd and taps his temple. He advances on his downed foe…]

[Santiago claps CHALKBOARD ERASERS either side of Academius’ head!]

[Clouds of white dust blind and choke the educated luchador. Siniestro charges–]

[HEADSCISSOR TAKEDOWN INTO THE DESKS AND CHAIRS!]

Black Scar: “The master becomes the student once more!”

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[KICKOUT BY ACADEMIUS!]

[Santiago draws his thumb across his throat, then heads up top…]

Signal: “Biology lesson, Scar – what does a tadpole grow into!?”

[HERMOSO RUIDO – FROG SPLASH!]

[ACADEMIUS HURLS THE GLOBE AT HIM!]

[The scale planet takes out Siniestro mid-air.]

[The Professor slides into a submission hold–]

[LECTURE LOCK – THE CROSSFACE!]

[The Ruleador asks The Cold if he quits, but he shakes his head!]

[Wait–!]

[HE STABS A PENCIL INTO THE SCHOLAR’S HAND!]

Black Scar: “With a pencil – a freakin’ pencil!”

[Academius screams and RELEASES the hold!]

[Santiago gets to his knees–]

[EXPULSION KNEE TREMBLER!]

[Academius pulls down the blackboard which has been hanging behind them.]

[He grabs Siniestro…]

[HE GIVES HIM AN A-PLUS!]

[REGAL PLEX THROUGH THE CHALKBOARD!]

[CRUNCH!]

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[THREE!]

Signal: “Academius took Santiago to school tonight, Scar!”

Black Scar: “I don’t think Siniestro did his homework!”

[Crimson stands in front of the match board, scanning the card for tonight’s show. His eyes move down the list until they stop.]

[Dr. Eric Vinell.]

[Crimson stares at the name. Something about it digs into an old memory.]

[A dim kitchen. His mother hunched over the counter. Her hands shake as she twists open an orange prescription bottle. The label catches the light.]

[Dr. Eric Vinell.]

[Crimson exhales slowly.]

Crimson: “…that name.”

[A gloved hand suddenly grips his shoulder from behind.

[Before Crimson can turn, a syringe plunges into the side of his neck. Thick red liquid pushes into his veins.]

[Crimson spins and throws a punch, but the strength drains from his arm halfway through the swing. The hallway tilts around him.]

[Standing there calmly is Dr. Eric Vinell, masked, eyes fixed on him.]

Dr. E. Vinell: “I remember you,” 

[Vinell says quietly as Crimson tries to steady himself.]

Dr. E. Vinell: “The boy in the hallway, You sat outside my office while your mother begged for pills.”

Crimson’s knees weaken. Vinell watches him with unsettling calm.

Dr. E. Vinell: “I can’t have people like you remembering the work I’ve done, People like you start asking questions. People like you try to get ahead of the game.”

[Crimson tries to step forward, but his legs give out and he crashes to the floor. Vinell looks down at him.]

Dr. E. Vinell: “That’s not how this works.”

[Orderlies appear from the end of the hallway and surround Crimson’s collapsing body. Vinell adjusts his gloves.]

Dr. E. Vinell: “So unfortunately, I’m going to have to take care of you.”

[The orderlies lift Crimson and drag him down the corridor toward the loading entrance. A black van waits with the back doors open. They throw Crimson inside.]

[One of the orderlies checks him quickly.]

Orderlie #1: “Doctor… his pulse is fading.”

[Vinell steps up to the van and presses two fingers to Crimson’s neck. He holds them there. Then removes his hand.]

Dr. E. Vinell: “Record the time…subject expired.”

[The van doors slam shut and the engine starts. Vinell stands under the loading dock lights as the vehicle disappears into the night.]

[His voice slips quietly through the mask.]

Dr. E. Vinell: “Fascinating.”

[Backstage, near a stack of production crates. The distant roar of the crowd bleeds through the concrete walls.]

[El Tropico Del Frio lounges against a crate, sipping from a coconut drink with a tiny umbrella. One foot rests lazily on the box.]

[Footsteps approach.]

[The Crimson Eclipse appears from the shadows, silent and composed. His arms rest behind his back, posture rigid, eyes locked forward.]

Crimson Eclipse: “The Temple prepares for war.”

[Tropico glances over slowly, unbothered.]

El Tropico de Frio: “War sounds like a lotta work, amigo.”

[Tropico takes another sip, then shrugs.]

El Tropico de Frio: “I was kinda hopin’ for more of a beach day vibe.”

[Eclipse steps closer, his voice low and deliberate.]

Crimson Eclipse: “At Invasion… four men step onto Sacred Ground.”

[A beat.]

Crimson Eclipse: “Only one leaves as contender.”

[He tilts his head slightly toward Tropico.]

Crimson Eclipse: “Ace Starshield fights for honor. Santiago Del Toro hunts souls.”

[Another step closer.]

Crimson Eclipse: “But wars are not won alone.”

[Tropico slowly lowers the coconut drink.]

Crimson Eclipse: “In the Battle Royal tonight. In the Contender’s match.”

[A pause.]

Crimson Eclipse: “We eliminate them. Together.”

[Tropico stares at him for a moment… then laughs quietly.]

El Tropico de Frio: “Ahhh man…”

[He rubs the back of his neck.]

El Tropico de Frio: “You sound just like the last guy.”

[Tropico hops down from the crate.]

El Tropico de Frio: “Deals, partnerships, little handshakes.”

[He shakes his head slowly.]

El Tropico de Frio: “Did that whole thing already.”

[Tropico gives Eclipse a big thumbs up.]

El Tropico de Frio: “Didn’t end great.”

[The thumb slowly turns downward.]

El Tropico de Frio: “So I’m takin’ a break from deals.”

[He starts to walk past Eclipse.]

El Tropico de Frio: “Too much stress.”

[Tropico pauses beside him, shrugging.]

El Tropico de Frio: “Besides…”

[He gestures lazily toward the arena.]

El Tropico de Frio: “If I’m gonna win that contender spot?”

[A relaxed grin spreads across his face.]

El Tropico de Frio: “I’m gonna do it the Tropi-cool way.”

[Tropico strolls away down the hallway.]

[Eclipse stands motionless, watching him go.]

[A long beat.]

Crimson Eclipse: “Then you will fall alone.”

[The lights flicker as the Guardian of the Sacred Ground turns toward the arena.]

Signal: We’ve got a very big matchup here as one week after Propaganda won the Ultraviolence Championship, he faces off against the previous champion and the man he didn’t beat to win the title in Mr Grimm.

Black Scar: He’s only be truly defeated once and the other time he lost by countout. I don’t know if old Proppy has it in him to put down Death itself tonight.

[The bell sounds as Grimm rushes forward, BRUTAL BIG BOOT TURNS PROPAGANDA INSIDE OUT!]

[The bigger man quickly pulls up Propaganda, rocking him with heavy lefts and rights to the chest and gut before a big time knee takes all the wind out of him. Grimm backs up, dragging a finger across his throat as he rushes to the ropes.]

[SOUL HARVE…NO! Propaganda is pulled out of the ring by his believers just in the nick of time. Grimm just snarls, backing up again as one of his believers pass something to Propaganda.]

[SUICIDE…CROWBAR! Grimm dives right into a massive crowbar shot, the steel denting over his skull mask. Grimm isn’t down but he’s dazed, half hanging over the ropes as Propaganda backs up.]

Black Scar: THE SIGNAL! Brutal Running Knee dents Grimm’s head even further, the Reaper ain’t out but he’s getting there if Proppy can continue the punishment.

[Propaganda signals for his believers to setup a table before he grabs a lighter out of his coat]

[And sets it ablaze.]

[Propaganda pulls Grimm out of the ropes, lifting him up high with the help of a few of his believers before dashing forward]

[RUNNING POWERBOMB THROUGH THE FLAMING TABLE! ]

‘HOLY SHIT’ ‘HOLY SHIT’

[Propaganda pulls himself up wincing as he grabs any fallen part of the table, throwing it on Grimm and signals for his believers to jump on as well before he rolls back into the ring.]

Signal:Smart move by Propaganda here, it’s knockout or downed for a ten count. If the referee manages to count Grimm out, he’s done and Propaganda wins.

[ONE]

[…………]

[TWO]

[…………]

[THREE]

[……………]

[FOU….THE BELIEVERS GO FLYING THROUGH THE AIR!]

[Grimm is on his feet, daggers stared directly at Propaganda who signals for his believer to throw the fallen crowbar at him as the Reaper rushes into the ring]

[CROWBAR SHOT….DOES NOTHING! Grimm just stares furious, Propaganda rushing to the ropes, leaping off]

[THE BROADCA….DEATH’S DOOR! Grimm just headbutts Propaganda in mid-leap, sending him crashing to the mat before lifting him up high]

[GOOZLE!….TO THE GRAVE! Brutal Ring Shaking Chokeslam may well be it, Propaganda is still somehow stirring, but he’s very close to being out]

Signal: This may well be the beginning of the end here, Grimm calling for the end and a second championship reign

[Grimm backs up into the corner, slicing his finger across his throat as Propaganda slowly staggers up, before sprinting forward]

[SOUL HARVESTER! CLOTHESLINE FROM MOTHER FUCKING HELL TURNS PROPAGANDA INSIDE OUT! The Voice collapsing to the mat, unconcious from impact as the referee calls for the bell]

Black Scar: Dominating victory for Mr Grimm as he emerges the two time Ultraviolence Champion but will he be able to retain it next week when everyone is Held Together By Tape?

Black Scar: “That was beautiful.”

[Mr. Grimm kneels in the center of the ring, one hand on the mat as he pushes himself upright.]

[Then the doors to the Temple burst open.]

[A swarm of masked figures pours down the aisle.]

[Propaganda’s followers.]

Signal: “This isn’t finished, Scar.”

[They flood the ring like a wave, surrounding Grimm before he can rise fully.]

[Boots stomp.]

[Fists rain down.]

[Steel CRACKS against bone.]

[A length of chrome pipe slams across Grimm’s back. A wheel rim smashes against his shoulder.]

Signal: “Wait a second. Scar, where did they get those weapons?”

Black Scar: “There’s no way…”

[Grimm staggers up for a moment, roaring through the punishment like a beast refusing the grave.]

[But there are too many.]

[Debris begins to scatter across the canvas.]

[Handlebars.]

[Headlights.]

[Bent chrome.]

Signal: “Is that the Pale Rider?”

[The mob parts.]

[Propaganda steps through them slowly, brushing dust from his chest.]

[He looks down at the wreckage… then at Grimm.]

Propaganda: “She’s taken her last ride, I think.”

Black Scar: “That son of a bitch.”

[One of the followers tosses the final piece into the ring; the twisted frame.]

[Propaganda crouches beside Grimm as the followers continue to hold him down.]

Propaganda: “While we were busy fighting… my followers were busy working.”

[He taps the broken engine block with his boot.]

Propaganda: “Bolt by bolt.”

[Grimm tries to rise again. A dozen hands shove him back into the pile of wreckage.]

[Propaganda leans closer.]

Propaganda: “You slaughtered mine.”

[He gestures around the ring.]

Propaganda: “Now I’ve returned the favor.”

[The followers step back, leaving Grimm buried beneath the destroyed motorcycle.]

Propaganda: “Ride on.”

[Propaganda and his followers exit the ring together.]

Signal: “I can’t believe this, Scar. What kind of fool does Propaganda have to be to attack the man’s steed.”

[Mr. Grimm slowly stirs beneath the broken pieces of the Pale Rider. Rage burning in his eyes.]

Black Scar: “Grimm’s no man, Sig. There’s going to be hell to pay.”

[Backstage, Jack Standard hides behind a stack of roadie cases, muttering furiously to himself.]

Jack Standard: “This is nonsense… Lowering myself like this… Gotta do what it takes…”

[Sighing deeply, he cocks a tranquilliser gun and shoulders the butt!]

Jack Standard: “Expose you… Ruining this sport…”

[The sound of scaled feet on the hard floor approaches.]

[THWAP, THWAP, THWAP!]

[The Jurassic Colossus strides down the corridor from the direction of catering. He chomps on a slab of raw meat, blood oozing down his mandibles.]

Jack Standard: “Hmph. Committed to the bit…”

[Backbone takes a deep breath, then exhales halfway.]

[He pops out from behind cover—]

[THOOP!]

[STANDARD SHOOTS COLOSSUS WITH A TRANQUILLISER DART!]

[The reptilian drops his steak with a howl. Sinking to his haunches defensively, he snarls and reaches for the dart in his neck, looking around for his attacker.]

[Jack, however, crouches down silently.]

[The sedative is fast-acting. Colossus slumps against the wall. His scaled eyelids slowly close over his vertical, slit pupils.]

[Backbone reemerges. He approaches his prey cautiously. He nudges him with his foot.]

Jack Standard: “Let’s end this farce. Nobody will care about you once I take that stupid costume off!”

[Kneeling down, Standard runs his hands around Jurassic’s thick neck, bulbous joints, and muscled arms & torso.]

Jack Standard: “I don’t understand… Where are the seams? Is it glued!?”

[Realisation sets in on what can be seen of Jack’s face.]

Jack Standard: “No… How!?”

[He slowly stands, leaning against the wall for support.]

Jack Standard: “You’re… Real!?”

[JURASSIC’S EYES SNAP OPEN!]

[Standard leaps back in alarm.]

Jurassic Colossus: “ROOOOAAAAARRRRR!!!”

[An incensed Colossus comes round and groggily gets to his feet, looking to wreck someone!]

[Backbone turns on his heel and gets the hell out of there!]

[Pixelshift invites Ziggy to a tie-up.]

Signal: “The Save-Point Saint is a fighting champion!”

[Robbins insists on a handshake first, which Pixelshift obliges.]

Black Scar: “Yeurgh, all this sportsmanship makes me sick!”

[They lock up!]

[Pixelshift rarely has a weight advantage, but he yeets the hundred-pound Ziggy into the ropes with ease!]

[El Motivador drops down on the rebound–]

[KEEP YOUR HEAD UP!]

Signal: “The supine uppercut catches the Champion offguard!”

[Ziggy pops up and tears into the ropes…]

[TURN YOUR LIFE AROUND – SLINGBLADE!]

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[KICKOUT!]

Black Scar: “Thank Marvolo! Ziggy as the Champion would be a curse from the gods!”

[The positive pugilist climbs to the top rope and drums up support. Pixelshift gets to his feet…]

[USE THIS FOR MO–NO!]

[Pixelshift DODGES the missile dropkick!]

[Robbins rolls through – right into a melee rush!]

[The crowd chant in unison with each strike by Pixelshift!]

Crowd: “A! B! UP! DOWN! UP! RIGHT! RIGHT!”

Signal: “That’s the 8-BIT COMBO!”

[A shuffle side kick floors Ziggy, and Pixelshift ascends the turnbuckles himself.]

[Pixellated wings flash across Neon Player One’s visor–]

[SKY DIVER PRESS – SENTON BOMB!]

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[SHOULDER UP!]

[Robbins applauds his own fortitude for kicking out, as does the audience.]

Black Scar: “Even if Pixelshift beats Ziggy, he’d have to do it four more times to get a shot at the World title!”

Signal: “Five successful defences is no small feat, for sure!”

[Pixelshift calls for it. GAME OVER appears on his visor!]

[Ziggy gets up groggily…]

[HARD RES–NO!]

[Robbins COUNTERS the CODEBREAKER–]

[SMALL PACKAGE!]

[There’s ALWAYS A CHANCE!]

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[THR–SHOULDER UP!]

Black Scar: “HE ALMOST FREAKIN’ STOLE IT RIGHT THERE!”

[Both men race to their feet – it’s anyone’s for the taking!]

[HARD RESET OUTTA NOWHERE!]

[THE CODEBREAKER KNOCKS OUT ZIGGY!]

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[THREE!]

Signal: “That’s defence number one down, Scar!”

Black Scar: “Four more to go!”

[Recorded earlier…]

[Hunched over a stack of workbooks at his desk after-hours, Academius marks his students’ work by candlelight.]

[Hey, it is Old School Wrestling!]

[A half-eaten apple sits beside the educator. It’s dark outside. He puts in countless hours to nurture the minds of the future.]

[Finishing his final set of notes, he sets down his red ballpoint pen, sits back, and rubs his bloodshot eyes.]

Academius: “By the time I get home, I can squeeze in a quick workout ahead of Slam…”

[Gathering his belongings into a leather satchel, he puts his coat on, then licks his fingers and extinguishes the candle.]

[He crosses the room to the door. Before opening it, however, he chuckles softly.]

Academius: “You think I don’t know you’re there?”

[A pair of gleaming, white eyes appear behind the desk where Academius had been sitting moments prior.]

[Darkwish.]

Darkwish: “No. It just didn’t matter whether you knew or not.”

[Academius turns to face Darkwish, who steps forwards into the moonlight which pours in through the windows.]

Academius: “I presume you want something? I’ve already had one unwelcome visitor today.”

Darkwish: “I know. I heard everything.”

[Academius frowns.]

Academius: “How long have you been here!?”

Darkwish: “Long enough to know that you aren’t going to listen to that zealot, Blackheart.”

[Justiciero Nocturno nods at the blackboard. In the pale light, Academius’ teachings are still visible on its surface.]

Academius: “… But you think I should listen to you, correct?”

[…]

Darkwish: “What I think doesn’t matter. What everyone thinks… Matters not, either.”

Academius: “That’s very nihilistic of you. Where does it fit into my classroom?”

[Darkwish steps towards Academius.]

Darkwish: “It doesn’t.”

[He picks up the half-eaten apple from the teacher’s desk and juggles it absent-mindedly.]

Darkwish: “Faith and belief systems don’t belong in school. You know what happens when you overload an undeveloped mind?”

Academius: “What?”

[Scarred Justice points to his own visage.]

Darkwish: “This.”

[He crushes the apple in his hand, juice dripping onto the floor.]

Darkwish: “If Jigsaw had stuck to his A, B, Cs and 1, 2, 3s… Things would be different.”

[…]

[Academius sighs.]

Academius: “I’ve had a long day, Darkwish. I’m going home.”

[The Scholar turns to open the classroom door, then pauses.]

Academius: “Don’t follow me.”

[Backstage.]

[A long concrete hallway hums under tired fluorescent lights.]

[Ace Starshield marches forward like a soldier on parade, chest out, posture perfect. Benny hustles beside him trying to keep up.]

Ace Starshield: “Chin up, Benny. The universe may look dark sometimes…”

[Ace gestures grandly down the hallway.]

Ace Starshield: “…but heroes walk straight into the darkness.”

[Benny nods, trying to believe it.]

Benny: “I know, Ace. It’s just… there’s a lot of scary people here. They’re not all nice like Dolly.”

Ace Starshield: “Scary people are exactly why heroes exist.”

[He gives Benny a reassuring salute.]

Ace Starshield: “And I swore an oath to protect you, partner. With the stars as our shield—”

[Flick.]

[The lights dim.]

[Benny freezes.]

Benny: “Ace…?”

[Flick. Flick.]

[The hallway plunges in and out of shadow.]

Ace Starshield: “Hmm.”

[Ace looks up at the ceiling.]

Ace Starshield: “Strange. My scanners detect dramatic villain activity.”

[Benny grabs his arm.]

Benny: “ACE!”

[Another light bursts with a sharp pop.]

[The hallway goes quiet.]

Santiago Del Toro: “Ahhh… the protector.”

[The voice echoes down the corridor like it’s circling them.]

[Benny spins around frantically.]

Benny: “WHERE IS HE?!”

Ace Starshield: “Stay behind me.”

[Ace steps forward, planting himself firmly between Benny and the darkness.]

Ace Starshield: “Toro! If you’re hunting for souls tonight…”

[He cracks his neck.]

Ace Starshield: “…you picked the wrong sector of the galaxy.”

[A low chuckle echoes.]

Santiago Del Toro: “You carry bravery like armor, héroe.”

[The lights flicker red.]

Santiago Del Toro: “But every matador knows…”

[Another light dies.]

Santiago Del Toro: “…the shield does not stop the blade.”

[Benny is shaking.]

Benny: “ACE WE SHOULD LEAVE!”

[Ace doesn’t move.]

Ace Starshield: “Negative.”

[He stares into the darkness.]

Ace Starshield: “Heroes don’t retreat.”

Santiago Del Toro: “Good.”

[A whisper from the darkness.]

Santiago Del Toro: “Because the bull must charge.”

[The lights suddenly shut off.]

[Beat.]

Santiago Del Toro: “And when he does…”

[A single emergency light flickers.]

Santiago Del Toro: “…I take the soul.”

[The lights snap back on.]

[The hallway is empty.]

[Benny is trembling.]

Benny: “Ace… I don’t like him…”

[Ace straightens his stance and places a reassuring hand on Benny’s shoulder.]

Ace Starshield: “Don’t worry, partner.”

[He salutes the empty hallway.]

Ace Starshield: “No villain in this universe is taking your soul on my watch.”

[Cut.]

Signal: Up next, our World Champion squares off against Scarred Justice. 

Black Scar: If Darkwish can win tonight, it will certainly elevate his profile, but Doc Cube isn’t going down without a fight. 

[The bell sounds as both men rush at each other, Running Spinning Back Elbow from Doctor Cube – CHECKMATE – DUCKED BY DARKWISH.] 

[DARKNESS FALLS – SUPERKICK FROM DARKWISH STAGGERS THE WORLD CHAMPION.] 

[El Maestro del Juego staggers against the ropes and straight into a Crossface Chicken Wing – KIRBY’S KAOS! Justiciero Nocturno is stretching The Game Master!] 

[Thinking on his feet, Doctor Cube jumps up and pushes off the middle rope, forcing Darkwish onto his back and rolling over the top of him into a bridging pin.] 

[ONE!] 

[…] 

[…] 

[…] 

[TW-SCARRED JUSTICE IS FORCED TO RELEASE THE HOLD AS BOTH MEN ARE ABLE TO MAKE THEIR FEET!] 

[Spinning Back Elbow – CHECKMATE CONNECTS WITH THE BRIDGE OF DARKWISH’S NOSE!] 

[Scarred Justice falls back, and as he does, his boot flies up and makes incidental contact with El Maestro del Juego’s groin before landing on his back!] 

Black Scar: And this is why Ruleadors are hated. 

Signal: That was incidental contact, Scar.  It’s a good non-call by that Ruleador. 

[Doctor Cube drops to one knee, clutching his twig and berries as Darkwish is allowed to recover and hooks The Game Master up for the Package Fisherman’s Buster – NIGHT TERROR DROPS EL MAESTRO DEL JUEGO ON HIS HEAD AND DARKWISH HOOKS THE LEGS FOR THE COVER!] 

[ONE!] 

[…] 

[…] 

[…] 

[TWO!] 

[…] 

[…] 

[…] 

[THREE!] 

Black Scar: Darkwish cheated to win, and our crooked Ruleador here saw it through. 

Signal: It was an accident, Scar; Darkwish earned his victory here tonight! 

Signal: “What a match that was between the World Champion and Darkwish!”

[Dr. Cube stands in the center of the ring, breathing steadily after his brutal encounter with Darkwish.]

[Darkwish rolls out of the ring, leaving the Game Master alone beneath the lights as a tracking line scrolls down the screen.]

[Cube turns toward the ropes.]

[And freezes.]

[Edward Newton is standing in the ring.]

[He hadn’t come down the ramp.]

[Cube’s body jolts slightly, instinctively bracing for an attack.]

[Newton notices.]

[And smiles.]

Edward Newton: “Relax, Doctor.”

[A small shrug.]

[Cube straightens, suspicious. His head tilts as he studies Newton.]

Dr. Cube: “You finally decided to play.”

[Newton slowly paces around him, studying the champion like a specimen.]

Edward Newton: “Oh, I understand now.”

[A beat.]

Edward Newton: “You don’t want a fight.”

[Newton taps his temple.]

Edward Newton: “You want a test.”

[Cube says nothing.]

Edward Newton: “Trials. Pressure. Observation.”

[Newton smirks faintly.]

Edward Newton: “Your world.”

[He stops in front of Cube.]

Edward Newton: “I suppose I can respect that.”

[Newton lifts the World Championship from his shoulder.]

[He stares at it for a moment… then casually lets it drop.]

[The belt lands with a heavy thud at Cube’s feet.]

Edward Newton: “I accept.”

[Cube slowly looks down at the championship… then back at Newton.]

Dr. Cube: “Curious.”

[Cube picks up the strap, and begins stepping toward the ropes.]

Edward Newton: “Before you go…”

[He turns slightly.]

Edward Newton: “Riddle me this, Doctor.”

[Cube’s head tilts again, intrigued. A quick splash of static hits the screen.]

Edward Newton: “What’s the most convincing lie in the world?”

[Cube pauses. Then a small, confident chuckle escapes him.]

Dr. Cube: “Hope.”

[Newton grins.]

Edward Newton: “Interesting answer.”

[Newton steps past Cube, through the ropes.]

[And walks up the ramp.]

[Cube watches him leave… the championship now back in his possession.]

Black Scar: “And the night’s not over, Sig. We’ve got that big battle royal coming up!”

[Backstage, Ziggy Robbins stands beside a stack of crates, clapping for the ruleador who called Darkwish vs. Dr. Cube who is passing by.]

Ziggy Robbins: “Great hustle out there! Keep your head up, you’re doing amazing!”

[The ruleador walks off awkwardly as a shadow stretches across the floor.]

[Santiago Siniestro steps into view.]

[Ziggy turns and smiles wide.]

Ziggy Robbins: “Santiago! Hey! You fought hard out there tonight.”

[Siniestro studies him for a moment.]

Santiago Siniestro: “Ziggy. I wanted… to clear the air.”

[Ziggy tilts his head.]

Ziggy Robbins: “Clear the air?”

[Siniestro steps closer.]

Santiago Siniestro: “War Machine. Newton’s little team. You and me on opposite sides.”

[He gestures casually.]

Santiago Siniestro: “Business.”

[Ziggy nods slowly.]

Ziggy Robbins: “Hey, sometimes the rain comes before the rainbow, right?”

[A beat.]

Santiago Siniestro: “Exactly.”

[Another pause.]

[Santiago suddenly smiles. The kind of smile that doesn’t reach the eyes.]

Santiago Siniestro: “So I thought maybe we fix things.”

Ziggy Robbins: “I like that idea!”

Santiago Siniestro: “Two weeks from now.”

[Ziggy blinks.]

Santiago Siniestro: “Dinner.”

[He gestures towards the exit.]

Santiago Siniestro: “There’s a great spot I know.”

[He leans slightly closer.]

Santiago Siniestro: “I’ll take care of you real good.”

[Ziggy lights up.]

Ziggy Robbins: “That’s what I’m talking about!”

[He claps his hands.]

Ziggy Robbins: “Nothing solves problems like sitting down and talking! That’s how people grow!”

[Siniestro nods slowly.]

Santiago Siniestro: “Exactly.”

Ziggy Robbins: “You got it!”

[Ziggy offers a handshake.]

[Siniestro looks at it for a moment… then takes it.]

[Ziggy pumps his hand enthusiastically.]

Ziggy Robbins: “I think this is gonna be great for both of us.”

[Siniestro stares at him.]

Santiago Siniestro: “Sí.”

[Ziggy walks off down the corridor, already talking.]

Ziggy Robbins: “Maybe after dinner we can talk strategy! I’ve got some ideas about teamwork and positive reinforcement—”

[He disappears around the corner.]

[Siniestro remains.]

[The smile disappears from his face.]

[Cut.]

Signal: “We’re getting a preview of Invasion here tonight with this four on four!”

Black Scar: “This match is going to devolve into chaos. No way these eight are going to adhere to tag match rules.”

[The bell sounds and all hell immediately breaks loose as all eight competitors rush towards their designated opponents.]

[Ram Jam is trading shots with Idolo.]

[Bellator and Padre are attacking Dolly and Aranza irrespectively.]

[Which leaves Moretti with Glitter, who stare each other down, although not with the same emotion.]

[The Sinful One begins to gyrate their hips while biting their lip, inviting Blackhand over with a wave of their fingers.]

[Moretti looks at the Sovereign of Sex with disgust before charging at him with the OMERTA!]

[Glitter slides under! They grab Moretti by the balls before suplexing him! The ORGASM BUTTON has been pushed!]

[Before Glitter can take advantage, they’re spiked with a TRIBULATION by Lux Bellator!]

[SLEEPWALKER SPIRAL by Dolly to Lux as he gets to a kneeling position!]

[BLUNT FORCE TRAUMA by Vengaza knocks the Dreamer into the ropes!]

[DEADFALL from Aranza sees Padre’s head planted into the mat!]

[She’s then taken to ELECTRIC AVENUE by the Groove-ador!]

[But Idolo HARD CUTS the scene, taking Brown Sugar down with the slingshot cutter!]

[Perdido signals for the end by leaping up the top rope for his finisher.]

[He leaps…]

[AND SLEEPS WIT’ THE FISHES! Moretti nails the clothesline and pins Idolo!]

[ONE!]

[TWO!!]

[THREE!!!]

Signal: “You were right about chaos, Scar. I could hardly keep up with all that action here tonight!”

Black Scar: “I’m never wrong when it comes to mayhem, Sig. Invasion will be just as chaotic, if not more so if this was anything to go by.”

[The match is called, but neither side looks finished. Dolly Daydream helps El Idolo Perdido to his feet, brushing him off with a bright smile.]

Signal: “This Invasion War isn’t over yet. Egos bruised, wounds fresh.”

Black Scar: “Perfect time to twist the knife.”

[Everyone else in the ring looks ready to explode. Glares lock. Fists tighten. The tension hangs thick, except for Dolly whose smile beams in contrast to the rest.]

Signal: “You could cut the tension with a knife.”

Black Scar: “That ditzy blonde is ruining everything.”

[Oblivious, Dolly happily shakes hands around the ring.]

Dolly Daydream: “I’m just so excited to have so many new friends to play with.”

[She shakes Ram Jam’s hand and is met with a baffled stare. She reaches for Moretti’s, only to be brushed aside.]

Dolly Daydream: “Naughty naughty, play nice!”

[Then she turns to Aranza, hand extended.]

[Aranza glares, before raking her nails across Dolly’s face. Dolly collapses in shock as thin lines of blood seep through the torn skin near her mask.]

Aranza: “You have no respect for yourself. This isn’t a game.”

[The words ignite the powder keg.]

[Suddenly everyone surges forward around the fallen Dolly. Old rivals collide, shouting and shoving. Aranza prowls like a predator, daring anyone to challenge her. Ram Jam grabs Moretti while Perdido fires a wild swing at Glitter that is ducked with a smirk.]

Signal: “Here we go. This is about to spiral.”

Black Scar: “Finally!”

[Chaos builds… until a scream cuts through it from the centre of the huddle.]

Dolly Daydream: “Stop it! Stop it!”

[Sobbing, she stands and shoves through the crowd.]

Dolly Daydream: “I just wanted everyone to get along, but you all just want to hurt each other. You’re just a bunch of… dumb-dumbs.”

[The childish insult lands with awkward silence. For a moment, the tension breaks, before every glare turns toward Dolly.]

[Seven hostile faces stare back.]

Dolly Daydream: “I’m getting outta here.”

[She bolts. Lux, Ram Jam, and Perdido follow her exit.]

[Behind them, Aranza snarls after the retreating group.]

Aranza: “Run if you want. You can’t hide. None of you will make it to Invasion.”

[Cut.]

[Backstage — a concrete hallway leading toward the arena.]

[Warlord Mars stomps down the corridor, Hardcore Championship gripped in one hand, armor clanking with every step.]

Signal: “Mars is on his way to defend the Hardcore Championship.”

Black Scar: “And somebody’s about to regret getting in his way.”

[PixelShift suddenly steps out in front of him.]

[Mars stops dead.]

Warlord Mars: “HEY! PUNY MEATBAG!”

[He leans down, towering over PixelShift.]

Warlord Mars: “You want MORE?!”

[A snort.]

Warlord Mars: “Or was last week enough to make you puke your little pixel guts out?”

[PixelShift doesn’t move.]

Pixelshift: “Relax.”

[A beat.]

Pixelshift: “I’m not here to fight.”

[Mars laughs loudly.]

Warlord Mars: “THEN MOVE!”

Pixelshift: “Actually… I was planning to watch your match. After all, you’re bigger than me, stronger than me and you’ve been throwing me around for months.”

[Mars narrows his eyes.]

Pixelshift: “Call it… a walkthrough guide.”

[A small shrug.]

Pixelshift:  “Figured I’d see how to beat the game before Invasion.”

[Mars’ face twists with rage.]

Warlord Mars: “YOU LITTLE—!”

[He grabs PixelShift by the throat and lifts him clean off the ground.]

Signal: “Mars has him by the throat!”

Black Scar: “That’s a bad loading screen.”

[Mars squeezes tighter.]

[PixelShift struggles… then goes limp.]

[Mars keeps squeezing.]

[A voice cuts in.]

Darkwish: “Just hold on a second, alright?”

[Mars ignores him, still choking Pixel.]

Darkwish: “I don’t make a habit of sticking my nose in other people’s business but I can’t sit by backstage like everyone else and watch this happen.”

[Mars doesn’t even look at him.]

Darkwish: “HEY!”

[Darkwish shouts, stepping closer.]

Darkwish: “Are you listening to me? I know you want someone to intimidate, someone to frighten, but the kid is done, he’s unconscious, he’s not going to fight back.”

[A beat.]

Darkwish: “So, why don’t you fight someone who will fight back?”

[Mars slowly releases PixelShift.]

[Pixel collapses to the floor in a heap.]

[Mars turns.]

[Darkwish stands his ground.]

[Mars steps forward—]

[—WHAM.]

[A brutal haymaker flattens Darkwish instantly.]

Signal: “Jesus Christ!”

Black Scar: “That’s why you don’t volunteer.”

[Darkwish crumples.]

[EMTs rush into the hallway, dropping to their knees to check on both PixelShift and Darkwish.]

[Mars snorts, adjusting the Hardcore Championship on his shoulder.]

Warlord Mars: “PATHETIC.”

[He stomps toward the ring as chaos unfolds behind him.]

Signal: “Hang on! As the Hardcore Champion heads to the ring, I’ve just been told that next week, Darkwish and Warlord Mars will go one on one, folks!”

Black Scar: “Marvolo actin’ pretty fast on that one.”

Signal: “Pay attention to the timer, folks! These nine men have until time runs out to try and pin or submit the current champion! The current champ once time runs out walks away the winner.”

Black Scar: “There won’t be much walking at all after this match, Sig. There’s more weapons at ringside than at a Crowley Family reunion. Hell, we’ll be lucky if you can wheel ’em out!”

[The bell rings and pandemonium immediately breaks out as soon as the timer begins to run down!]

[WARRRRRRRRRRRRRHEAD! MARS IMMEDIATELY WITH THE HEADBUTT TO TROPICO!]

[WARHEAD TO ECLIPSE!]

[WARHEAD TO DEL TORO!]

[Competitors go down left and right as Mars asserts his dominance! He stands center ring, beckoning the rest of the competitors.]

Warlord Mars: “COME ON? WHO’S GONNA GIMME A REAL FIGHT!?”

[Jack Standard immediately walks up as Mars boisterously laughs in his face!]

Signal: “THAT DAMN KICK! LEAPING SAVATE JUST CLEANED MARS’ CLOCK!”

Black Scar: “He put that man on jelly legs!”

[Mars stumbles back!]

[GOD’S FOOT! BLACKHEART WITH A BIG BOOT LIKE A FREIGHT TRAIN!]

[MARS GOES DOWN!]

[Every competitor tries to capitalize only to break out in a brawl in a fight to cover Mars! Blackheart gets immediately clobbered with a Cretaceous  Clothesline by the Jurassic Colossus that takes both men over the top rope!]

[Jack goes for a cover only for Ace Starshield to pull him back!]

[AND INTO A MASSIVE SINGULARITY SNAP POWERSLAM!]

[Ace leaps to his feet and goes for the pin!]

Signal: “NO! DR. E VINELL WITH THE STEEL CHAIR TO STARSHIELD!”

Black Scar: “Ha! I love this slimy bastard! Take what’s yours and take it now!”

[AND VINELL PERSCRIBES 500CC OF RAW STEEL TO THE SKULL OF A RISING WARLORD MARS!]

[He covers!]

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[THREE!]

[DR. E VINELL IS THE CURRENT CHAMPION!]

[The Doctor immediately scrambles to exit the ring, sliding under the bottom rope and running around the side of the ring!]

Signal: “PINEAPPLE TO THE FACE! TROPICO DE FRIO JUST TOOK DOWN VINELL!”

Black Scar: “So much for being Tropi-cool! Who uses a fruit like that?”

[De Frio drags Vinell up to his feet, dragging the pineapple up and down the luchador’s face! Vinell yells in agony as Tropico wrenches back!]

[EL OCASO! SUNSET LEAPING CUTTER BY CRIMSON ECLIPSE TAKES DOWN DE FRIO!]

[The Guardian tries to force Vinell onto his shoulders but Vinell wiggles out and shoves Eclipse face first into the steel steps! Vinell runs forwards with a brutal stomp but Crimson Eclipse barely rolls out of the way in time!]

[BULLDOG BY CRIMSON ECLIPSE ONTO THE STEEL STEPS! DR. E VINELL IS BUSTED WIDE OPEN!]

[He throws Vinell onto the ground and goes for the cover!]

[ONE!]

Black Scar: “Sig… What’s that shadow?”

[TWO!]

Signal: “That’s- WARLORD MARS! WAR CRIME! MOONSAULT FROM THE APRON LANDS ON BOTH MEN! HE’S COVERING VINELL!“

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[THREE!]

[WARLORD MARS IS CURRENT CHAMP ONCE MORE!]

[Mars stands up from the crater he made from his impact and immediately sets his sights on The Jurassic Colossus!]

Warlord Mars: “Come’ere big boy!”

[The Colossus just smiles!]

[LEAPING STINGER SPLASH BY THE COLOSSUS SENDS BOTH MEN CRASHING THROUGH THE STEEL STEPS!]

[The Prehistoric Menace is first to rise, pulling up Mars and cracking him with brain rattling forearms over and over again! The Warlord tries to fire back with a haymaker of his own but the Colossus nails a kick to the gut and powers Mars onto his shoulders!]

Signal: “Not a chance in hell… The Colossus is looking to powerbomb the Warlord!”

Black Scar: “SOMEONE HIT THE SIREN! THIS IS GONNA BE APOCALYPTIC!”

[The Colossus runs towards the barricade!]

[AND MARS FALLS BACK! HURRICANRANA BY THE MASSIVE LUCHADOR!]

[WHAM!]

[SENDING HIM RIGHT THROUGH THE GOD DAMNED BARRICADE!]

“HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT! HOLY SHIT!”

[The crowd chants in unison as Mars shakily makes his way to his feet from the wreckage only to come face to face with Santiago Del Toro! The Matador is resolute, simply unfurling his cape!]

Santiago Del Toro: “Step into my arena.”

[Mars stomps his foot!]

Warlord Mars: “This is MY arena!”

[CURSED CHARGE!]

[DEL TORO STEPS OUT OF THE WAY! MARS NAILS THE RINGPOST HEADFIRST WITH A THUNDEROUS CLANG!]

[Mars collapses against the post!]

Signal: “PHANTOM CORNADA! BUSAIKU KNEE SANDWHICHES MARS’ HEAD BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE!”

Black Scar: “I just saw Mars’ last braincell die on impact!”

[Del Toro places a foot on Mars’ chest!]

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[THREE!]

[SANTIAGO DEL TORO IS YOUR CURRENT CHAMPION!]

[Santiago turns away from the pin and immediately ducks a chairshot from Reverend Blackheart! God’s Punishment advances, swinging with malicious intent!]

[Swing!]

[Dodge!]

[Swing!]

[Dodge!]

[SNAPKICK TO THE JAW BY DEL TORO!]

[The Reverend holds his face as Del Toro rushes forward!]

[PHANTOM CORNADA- NO! CLAW HAND BY BLACKHEART!]

[BAPTISM BY FIRE! CLAW SLAM INTO THE APRON!]

[THEN ANOTHER CLAW SLAM PLANTS DEL TORO IN THE DIRT AT RINGSIDE!]

[Blackheart with a boot on Del Toro’s chest!]

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[THRUSTERS ENGAGED! ACE STARSHIELD JUST WHIPPED BLACKHEART AROUND INTO A SHORYUKEN UPPERCUT!]

[Starshield whips Blackheart right into the barricade, laying into the Reverend with all he’s got!]

Signal: “Wait, look at that, Mars is crawling over to Del Toro!”

Black Scar: “Ace is distracted! The Warlord just draped an arm over the Matador!”

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[THREE!]

[WARLORD MARS IS THE CURRENT CHAMPION ONCE AGAIN!]

[The bell ringing makes Ace immediately drop his attention from Blackheart, grabbing Mars and immediately rolling him into the ring! The Captain grabs a table, the crowd letting out applause as he slides in behind it!]

[Mars is beat to hell and Ace looks to put a nail in the coffin as he sets up the table!]

Signal: “Oh he can’t do this! This whole ring is already covered in carnage!”

Black Scar: “HE CAN AND HE WILL! SET MATCH TO VICTORY! LAST RIDE POWERBOMB THROUGH THE TABLE!”

[Ace goes to cover but Jack Standard is there!]

[MEASURING STICK! SWINGING CHOKESLAM SENDS ACE BOUNCING OFF OF MARS! JACK COVERS!]

[ONE!]

[TWO!]

[THREE!]

[JACK STANDARD IS THE NEW CURRENT CHAMPION!]

Signal: “The timer is quickly reaching its end! There’s only one minute left in this match!”

Black Scar: “And Jack is making his last stand in the center of that ring! He wants this title!”

[“Backbone” Jack Standard is just that! Competitors leap on the apron and Jack retaliates in turn!]

[Roundhouse sends Eclipse sprawling!]

[Headbutt to Tropico!]

[Forearm downs Vinell!]

[Wicked Savate to Blackheart!]

[The timer ticks down faster and faster as he backs into the center of the ring!]

[And into the waiting arms of a now standing Warlord Mars!]

[MARS POWERS HIM UP!]

[WARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR MACHINE! TORTURE RACK DROPPED INTO THE ARGENTINE POWERBOMB!]

[Mars Covers!]

[ONE!]

[The other luchadors scramble over one another like crabs in a bucket!]

[TWO!]

[Ace tries to stand!]

[THREE!]

[WARLORD MARS HAS JUST RECLAIMED HIS TITLE FOR THE THIRD TIME TONIGHT!]

[BZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZT]

Signal: “That’s time! Somehow, someway, Warlord Mars has just retained his Hardcore Title!”

Black Scar: “Not just somehow, Sig. Through sheer determination and warrior instincts. Let it be known, the Hardcore title belongs to Warlord Mars.”

[After the show.]

[Deep within the Temple an unlikely trio stand across from one another in a dimly lit room.]

[Blackhand Moretti.]

[Padre De Venganza.]

[And Glitter.]

Signal: “Just what in God’s name are these three doing together?”

Black Scar: “Quiet down, I wanna hear this!”

[Glitter leans forward, a wry smirk on their lips.]

Glitter: “Glitter is so happy to see you could… Come on such short notice.”

[The Sinful One idly gropes itself, eliciting disgust from both Padre and Moretti.]

Blackhand Moretti: “Get talkin’, freak. Time is money and you’re costin’ me a lot of God Damn time if you brought me here for no reason.”

[Padre tents his fingers, eyes darting between Glitter and Moretti.]

Padre Del La Venganza: “And the reason better be worth the Family’s time as well.”

[Glitter leans forwards, lazily running a finger up Moretti’s chest who springs backwards, fist bared.]

Glitter: “Calm down, My Big Blackhand. Glitter has an… Arrangement to offer you two.”

[Moretti shoves them back, head tilted to the side.]

Blackhand Moretti: “Then speak without gettin’ your disgustin’ mitts on me. Ain’t even God knows where those have been.”

Glitter: “It’s simple. I want to show you two the wonderful world of swinging.”

[Padre glances at Glitter, eyes narrowed.]

Padre Del La Venganza: “Swinging. As in?”

[Glitter lets out a low, rumbly giggle.]

Glitter: “We all have… Partners. Stubborn exes who just can’t let us go. Lux, Perdido, Ram Jam… So Glitter says we partner swap. Ride them hard, put them away wet and have three less toys to clutter the ring at Invasion.”

[There’s a pause, Padre looking the other two up and down before simply nodding his head.]

Padre Del La Venganza: “Then swinging it will be. My Family does so like to spread.”

[Moretti stands silent for a moment before nodding his head.]

Blackhand Moretti: “Which one’s mine?”

[The conversation slowly fades out as the camera pulls back to reveal Aranza hidden in the shadows, the Huntress having heard it all.]

[Cut.]