A SECOND FATHER
BACKSTAGE
Click.
Static covers the screen as a Play ► symbol appears in the bottom right-hand corner.
On the Kersh Ranch in Texas, The Enforcer has made it home to see his family; a welcome retreat to remember exactly what he’s fighting for. As he sits on his porch with a cold beer in hand, a familiar if not surprising face appears at the bottom of the steps.
Michaela Lane.
“I have such fond memories of this place,” she says, walking up the steps and taking a seat next to Kersh atop them.
“Me too, kid,” Brent replies, offering a beer that she accepts. “I never thought in a million years we’d be sitting here like this.”
She nods, swigging her drink.
“I can’t figure out what I should be. Should I be mad that dad hasn’t come for me like you have for Tank? Or should I not care?”
Kersh shrugs a little.
“Your father is a complicated man,” he admits. “He spent your entire youth trying to keep you away from this place. I think he’s given into the notion that whatever will be, will be.”
“Why haven’t you?” She asks carefully.
Brent thinks about it for a moment, lowering his head with a wry smile.
“I don’t know the future. I don’t know what happens here or why. All I know is that I feel in my heart that this is the right thing to do. I love my son. It breaks my heart that he’s in such danger.”
Michaela stands up. She brushes herself off and walks down the steps, stopping at the bottom to face Kersh one last time.
“Please, don’t turn up at Blood Stained Summer,” she pleads. “It isn’t he that’s in danger; it’s you.”
The Enforcer doesn’t say anything.
“You won’t beat Sanctus tonight but you will walk away more determined than ever to change the future,” Michaela notes with a soft and caring tone. “And you won’t. This doesn’t end well for you, so please, just walk away.”
She leaves him with those words, but he isn’t finished.
“I won’t!” He says defiantly. “I can’t.”
We follow Lane as she walks up the long drive and around the corner to a car. Tank is inside waiting with Sanctus and Jay.
“Did he listen?” Sanctus asks, Tank listening carefully for the response.
“No,” she says sorrowfully. “I’m sorry, Tank.”
“Very well. You know what you have to do, Sanctus,” Tank follows up.
Cut.
TRAPPED
SOMEWHERE ELSE
The steam hisses as the Boiler Room thrums in action. Despite the poorly lit area, we can see Michela Lane and Tank Kersh, tied to a set of chairs back to back. Both seem to be bound, gagged, and attached to separate chairs
As they slowly come to, a splash of water shoots out from a bucket on their faces. A chuckle makes them both look to who brought them here, gagging them.
Bishop. Malice
Bishop leans towards them, letting his larger compatriot merely smile with a wicked grin as he speaks.
“It’s nothing personal kids. You’re just an anomaly in our way. There are plans in motions, and those belts you have? Well. We need them. Not you.”
He turns, making his way out of the Boiler Room.
“You two have fun sitting in here. Shame you won’t make your match.”
As he walks, Malice looks towards Michela, and then Tank. His smile widens a bit, an almost mischievous look in his eye. Nodding to Tank, he leaves as well. The two struggle in their chairs, before Tank brushes his fingers against something in his pocket.
A knife.
With the steady hand of a farmhand, he saws away slowly, cutting through layer after layer of rope. They fray, and break free leaving a frantic Tank tearing off his restrictive mask, and rushing over to Michela. Taking off her gag, he works at cutting the ropes to free her.
“You always have a knife on you?”
“Of course,” Tank replies, looking at his friend a bit confused. “What kind of a farmhand doesn’t?”
“Why didn’t they take it?”
Kersh pauses for a second, pondering the question.
“I’m not quite sure.”
[Cut]THE PLAGUE RAT VS. VOYNICH
SINGLES MATCH
A simple knife that means so much more to the young archaeologist. Will Voynich gain an insight to his father’s disappearance or will he fall victim to the Pandemic?
The bell sounds as the psychotic Plague Rat rushes forward with a massive clothesline nearly taking Voynich’s damn head off straight away as the archaeologist stumbles to his feet right into a flurry of lefts and rights before a stiff headbutt staggers Voynich into the ropes
CACTUS CLOTHESLINE OVER THE TOP ROPE!
Voynich crashes to the sandy floor below as the Pandemic sits down on the apron with a sick grin on his face. He leaps off the apron into a sharp elbow to the heart of Voynich, staying down as Plague Rat pummels the young man with furious lefts and rights before a stiff kick to the side of the head leaves Voynich completely out of it. TPR pulling him up, drilling the young man with a stiff knee to the gut before tossing him into the air
AND DELIVERING A DECAPITATING DELIRIUM!
The Pop up Clothesline may well have finished this match as TPR rolls the dazed archaeologist into the ring before folding up a beach chair from ringside and rolling back into the ring with it. Voynich slowly gets to his feet as TPR lifts the chair up high and rushes forward
VOYNICH DUCKS AS THE FOLDING CHAIR BOUNCES OFF THE ROPES RIGHT INTO TPR’S HEAD!
The Plague Rat drops the chair, stumbling forward right into an onrushing Voynhich
ISHTAR GATE! A Lariat of his own takes the Plague Rat down but Voynich isn’t done as he pulls up the groggy Plague Rat before lifting him up high
AND SPIKING HIM INTO THE MAT WITH THE MONOLITH BRAINBUSTER! Voynich rolls over the prone Pandemic, hooking the leg for the first pinfall of this contest
ONE
…..
TWO
……
KICKOUT! TPR just kicks out as Voynich pulls him to his feet, grabbing him by the head as he looks for the end. But as he runs forward, TPR slips out of his grasp
LOW BLOW! Voynich slips to his knees as TPR slides the fallen chair over before lifting the smaller man up and spiking him into the mat with an almighty
FEVER! RIGHT ONTO THE FOLDING CHAIR! That could be it as TPR rolls Voynich over for the cover
ONE
….
TWO
…..
THRE….
…..
KICKOUT!
The Plague Rat is pissed as he pulls the lawn chair up and as Voynich stumbles to his feet, delivers a stiff shot that causes the archaeologist to stumble forward and fall through the ropes to the floor below. Ready to end this, TPR pulls out the sacred knife as he reaches over the ropes, looking to skewer the best kept secret with the blade
PSSSSHH
The sound of air fills ringside as Voynich managed to pick up one of the beach balls at ringside just in time. Voynich takes advantage of the confusion, grabbing TPR by the head once more as he leaps up onto the apron, running up the ropes….
THE EIGHT WONDER! THE SLICED BREAD!
Voynich collapses onto TPR for the pinfall
ONE
….
TWO
…
THREE!!!
The best kept secret picks up a big victory tonight as he takes the knife from the Plague Rat and gets a little closer to finding his father
THE CANDY SHOP, PT. 2
FLASHBACK
TWO WEEKS AGO.
“Johnny, sweetie… Think about what you’re doing.”
Candy Kane stands by the sole window in her black and white office.
Johnny sweats profusely, bombs strapped all over his body.
“You don’t understand, Candy. It doesn’t matter what I think about what I’m doing. It doesn’t matter that I know it’s wrong. The Fates have already determined our lives.”
“That’s not true, toots,” Kane says, trying anything she can to talk some sense into her friend. “We are born into this world free beings. You always have choices. So long as you are breathing, you are always choosing.”
Johnny laughs. She doesn’t fucking get it.
“Candy, I’ve always loved you. I know you don’t feel the same way about me that I feel about you. But I needed you to know that, before my last breath.”
“Johnny, ple–”
It’s too late.
BOOM.
Outside of the Candy Shop, the glass window SHATTERS and Candy Kane’s body HITS the ground.
She coughs. “Shit,” she says. Candy rolls over and looks at the sky.
But instead of the sky, she sees Moirai looming over her.
“Candy Kane, nice to finally meet you.”
Kane raises an eyebrow.
“Who are you?”
“I’m Moirai. But you can call me the fates, if you’d like.”
Realization hits Candy like a fist wrapped in brass knuckles.
“You! You made Johnny do this.”
Moirai nods. “I did. I also saved your life. See, it is your fate to learn this important lesson. You have no free will. Your life is dictated by the fates. Your life is determined by me.”
Kane chuckles, wincing through the pain. “Sorry sweetheart, but no one determines my fate but me.”
“We’ll see about that,” Moirai says. “At Blood Stained Summer, you will wrestle with fate. But the fates will win. I will win. And you? You will lose to fate, just like everyone else does.”
Moirai starts to walk away. Kane grabs her shoulder, scuffed up from jumping through an exploding glass window.
“As long as I breathe, my fate won’t be determined by you.”
Cut.
CANDY KANE VS. MOIRAI
SINGLES MATCH
Candy Kane is on a unique case indeed as she crosses paths the embodiment of the Fates, but what fate awaits her as she takes on Moirai?
Kane and Moirai go at it immediately, trading lefts and rights until Moirai gets the upper hand with a flurry of offense that grounds the Canary, sending Kane down hard! Moirai makes use of the opportunity by launching herself for a Twist of Fate…TAKING KNEES TO THE MIDSECTION BY KANE INSTEAD!
Moirai clutches her ribs as Kane gets back to her feet, a smirk on her face as she turns things around with some stomps to the midsection. Moirai gets back to her feet but is met with a hard right hand by Kane, who sends Moirai into the corner with some heavy strikes! Moirai eventually gets out of the corner, staggering back as Kane charges…BIG GAMBLE! THAT KNEE TREMBLER DROPPED MOIRAI DOWN HARD! Kane senses her opportunity as she makes the cover!
ONE!
TW–MOIRAI KICKS OUT!
Kane stays on the attack with some elbows to the head of Moirai, picking her up as she looks for that Backstabber…but Moirai slips out, hitting a desperation DDT that drives Kane down headfirst! Moirai with a second wind as she hits a quick leg drop for good measure, now focused on ending this match as quickly as possible!
Kane manages to get back to her feet, however, looking like she could do this all day as she taunts the embodiment of the Fates. Moirai charges at the Canary, but Kane dodges before sending Moirai to the ropes…only for Moirai to launch herself at Kane on the rebound with a crossbody, before quickly going for the cover!
ONE!
T–KANE KICKS OUT WITH AUTHORITY ON THAT ONE!
Moirai looks just a tad frustrated as Kane gets to her feet…and Moirai sets up for a wheelbarrow bulldog that brings the detective right back down! LACHESIS! Kane is looking worse for wear, but is still managing to get back to her feet albeit slowly…only for Moirai to climb up top, nailing a diving DDT! ATROPOS! Surely that’s gotta be it as Moirai goes for the cover once more!
ONE!
TWO!
TH–KANE JUST MANAGES TO GET A SHOULDER UP!
Kane showing some real tenacity tonight, much to Moirai’s chagrin as she is now the one taunting Kane to get up. Kane obliges, her fighting spirit not wavering as they go right back to trading strikes. Moirai lands a kick that staggers Kane as she goes to the ropes…FATE SEALED! SPRINGBOARD DRAGONRANA, AND THE COVER!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Candy Kane’s case just went cold, as Moirai picks up the win and seals the Canary’s fate!
TREATY
BACKSTAGE
A long, metal table sits backstage in the Slaughterhouse, a single light dangling above it.
On one end, sits Monty Straight.
The other, Junkrat.
“I take it you got a lot of use out of the microphone you stole from me?” Asks Monty Straight, a sneer spread across his face.
Junkrat sneers right back, “Yeah. I fucked your mom with it.”
Straight rolls his eyes. “Crass.”
“How is that crass?” Junkrat asks, genuinely.
Straight moves on. “I believe, for both our sakes, this little thing between us must end tonight.”
“Well, I dunno what thing you’re talking about mate, but my thing certainly ain’t little.”
“Crass.”
“HOW is that crass?”
Monty clears his throat, snaps his fingers. On the table, a ceasefire agreement sits between them.
“This is a treaty.”
“What’s a treaty?”
“Just read it.”
Junkrat’s eyes shift back and forth. “You read it.”
Monty realizes something, smiles, almost chuckles. “You’re illiterate, aren’t you?”
“What does that even mean?”
“It means you can’t read.”
Junkrat’s eyes tear up. Lowblow. He stands to his feet and points at Straight. “I can read, I just don’t like to read.”
Monty takes a deep breath. “Well, this agreement states that regardless of who wins or who loses tonight, a permanent ceasefire will exist between us.”
“Fine by me,” Junkrat says. “Where do I sign?”
“On the dotted line, by my name. I’ve already signed it.”
Junkrat pulls out a container of ink. He unzips his pants. He pulls out his pecker and dips it in the ink. He then draws a penis on the dotted line.
“Sorted,” Junkrat states, a smile on his face. Proud.
Monty groans.
Cut.
MONTY STRAIGHT VS. JUNKRAT
SINGLES MATCH
It’s a grudge match tonight. Monty Straight comes up against he who gets under all of our skin… Junkrat. Can Monty Straight get his long awaited revenge on Junkrat tonight?
The match starts with a BANG! Quite literally. Junkrat tossing a Cherry into the centre of the ring while Straight and himself still stand at opposite turnbuckles. The explosion that follows, coupled with a large plume of smoke that fills the air allows Junky a window of opportunities. And he takes that window right up the ass.
SMACK!
A SWIFT RIGHT FIST CRACKS MONTY STRAIGHT UNAWARES!
DROPKICK FROM JUNKRAT SENDS MONTY SAILING OUT OF THE RING AND CRASHING TO THE FLOOR BELOW!
Junkrat scampers up the turnbuckle, barely even looking down to line his target up before he leaps.
SWANTON BOMB!
HITS NOTHING BUT CONCRETE!
MONTY CRAWLS TO SAFETY!
The sound of one Junkrat hitting the concrete ringside floor is like a wet fish being slapped across the cheek. Enough to draw a gasp from the crowd before Monty scoops him up.
SAITO SUPLEX! HE DROPS JUNKRAT SHOULDER FIRST ON TOP OF THE CROWD BARRICADE!
ANOTHER GASP FROM THE CROWD!
NOW MONTY LAYS INTO JUNKRATS WITH A COLLECTION OF STOMPS AND KICKS!
IT LOOKS LIKE JUNKRAT’S REALLY GOT UNDER HIS SKIN, NOW HE’S TAKING ALL OF THAT FRUSTRATION OUT!
Eventually, Monty hauls a lifeless Junkrat up to his feet and rolls him into the ring. He follows him in and scoops him up once more.
COMMERCIAL BREAK!
MONTY NAILS JUNKRAT AND COVERS FOR THE PIN!
ONE!
…
…
NO LIFE FROM JUNKRAT!
TWO!
…
…
STILL NOTHING!
THR-NOOOO!
JUNKRAT JUST MANAGES TO GET THE SHOULDER UP AND MONTY IS NOT HAPPY!
Monty straight away wrenches his foe to his feet and pulls him toward the corner. He grabs Junkrat by the head but JUNKRAT DRILLS HIM INTO THE BOTTOM TURNBUCKLE WITH A DROP TOE HOLD!
AND JUST LIKE THAT, THERE’S LIFE IN OL’ JUNKRAT AGAIN!
He springs to his feet, grabbing Monty and whipping him into the ropes. On the rebound, he NAILS MONTY WITH THE KITCHEN SINK! Monty drops right in the middle of the ring, leaving himself open for THE STEEL TRAP!
JUNKRAT LOCKS IT IN AND MONTY HAS NOWHERE TO GO!
THE HAND RAISES!
IS MONTY GOING TO TAP OUT?!
Eventually, Monty manages to use his feet to kick Junkrat off him and break the hold. He hobbles to his feet and the pair lock horns once more. A test of strength comes off with JUNKRAT OVERPOWERING MONTY!
SNAP SUPLEX FROM JUNKRAT!
HE CLIMBS THE TURNBUCKLE!
RIP-TIRE!
HE NAILS IT!
JUNKRAT COVERS FOR THE PIN!
ONE!
…
…
TWO!
…
…
…
MONTY’S GOT NOTHING LEFT!
THREE!
Junkrat comes out on top, taking down Monty Straight in their grudge match!
TAKE NO CHANCES
BACKSTAGE
Moments Before Their Match…
Voynich peers around the corner, waiting for the last man to leave the locker room area.
Plague Rat exits with a smile on his face, mumbling obscenities into the air.
After seeing its clear, he scurries into the room quickly. He knew when it came to securing an artifact, taking chances was not an option, especially one this important. Voynich had dealt with men like Plague Rat before so he knew there was no guarantee that he’d follow through if he won.
Last week he was caught off guard, but not this time. Voynich had watched Plague Rat closely and knew exactly where the son of a bitch put the knife.
He quickly removes a piece of baseboard in the corner of the room and pulls out an old cloth bag. Voynich opens it quickly and pulls out the knife.
“There you are,” he whispers, reaching to place it in his bag.
Suddenly, images fill his head!
He sees his father being struck with the butt of the knife.
The next image is one of his father tied to a chair appearing to have something injected in him.
The last image…his father escaping, using the knife to cut himself free.
The images temporarily render him useless. Realizing his time was running out, Voynich reaches deep within his bag and pulls out a knife identical to that of Plague Rat.
“It’s beautiful if I say so myself. Dad always said take no chances,” Voynich states, smiling.
He may not have found concrete answers about his father’s disappearance, but he was a few steps closer.
Cut.
THE CAUCUS RACE
RINGSIDE
Painted lines and colors flowing, we once again find ourselves in the dreamlike world crafted for Sweet Alice. The girl in question walks wearily into frame, the past two weeks a blur in her mind.
As she makes her way around the backstage of the Slaughterhouse, she becomes lost, and with it, follows the only pathways that she can find.
One that seems to lead into the sunlight.
She walks towards the light and finds herself outside, soon walking towards a clearing in a forest, a group of animals who appear drenched, all of them complaining amongst themselves.
“I was swept away from my house by a salty stream!”
A mole pipes up louder than the rest.
“Me too! I’m all wet and now I can’t fly!”
An owl chimed in but was quickly over whelmed by other voices. Finally, as Alice moved closer to the ranting crowd, a mouse spoke up.
“Well I for one think we should find out who caused all of this! It can’t be one of us! It was made of tears!”
The group of animals soon speak amongst each other, agreeing that finding the culprit would be a much better use of their time. And as they say that, they snap their heads toward Alice. And in an instant, the visage of the animals change.
“You.“
They surround Alice, teeth bared, the sunlight slowly turning to darkness.
“You’re the reason for this, aren’t you!?”
Alice tries to back up, unable to and instead turning in circles trying to find a way out.
“No! I didn’t hurt you! I’m here to oppose the Queen!”
“She lies!”
As the animals move in Alice grips her storybook and lashes out!
Smash!
The book lands flush with an animal and the world falls away like pieces of glass! The demented version of Wonderland is gone, and instead Alice finds herself in the middle of the ring! She turns around to see Mefisto standing in his corner, a sly smirk beneath his scarf.
The illusion is gone, and with Alice shaken, Mefisto looks to capitalize in their match coming up next!
SWEET ALICE © VS. MEFISTO
DOUBLE FEATURE CHAMPIONSHIP
SWEET ALICE VS MEFISTO
Mefisto challenging new reigning Double Feature Champ Sweet Alice here at Blood Stained Summer!
Mefisto comes crashing in with a flurry of strikes Alice tactfully avoids before slipping and countering with a HUGE Enziguri that sends Mefisto reeling!
Alice goes off of the ropes and hits a DROPKICK! that sends the Illusionist through the ropes, landing just before the guard rails.
Mefisto begins to stir but Alice is already mid leap! BODY SPLASH!! SWEET ALICE TOOK FLIGHT AND LANDED FLUSH!
Mefisto goes flying into the guard rails while Alice lands graciously on her feet. She giggles and a sadistic smile begins to form.
SWEET ALICE HAS HER BOOK IN HAND!
WELCOME TO WONDERLAND!!
…
…
…
MEFISTO DISSAPEARS!
ALICE IS LOOKING FOR HIM!
SHE CAN’T FIND-
BIG BOOT!
MEFISTO RE-APPEARS MID BIG BOOT THAT DESTROYS ALICE OUTSIDE OF THE RING!
Mefisto rag dolls her back inside and he has her back!
RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX!!!!
Alice goes crashing into the mat!
Mefisto covers!
ONE!
TWO!
THR-NO!!
SWEET ALICE kicked out!!
Mefisto scrambles to keep control with a punt kick!
SWEET ALICE EVADES!
WELCOME TO WONDERLAND!!!
THE STORY BOOK SMASHES MEFISTO FLUSH sending him reeling, giving her a few seconds to recover.
Sweet Alice looks to strike, she puts Mefisto in the camel clutch position!
CAMEL CLUTCH!
THE TEA PARTY!!!
SWEET ALICE HAS IT LOCKED IN AND MEFISTO IS SCRAMBLING TO BREAK IT!
HE’S SQUIRMING, REACHING FOR A ROPE!
SHE’S PULLING WITH ALL HER MIGHT BUT MEFISTO MANAGES TO GET TO HIS FEET!
HE FALLS ONTO HIS BACK SLAMMING ONTOP OF SWEET ALICE!
Both competitors slam into the mat and are motionless for a few seconds, signaling a huge crowd pop in appreciation here at Blood Stained Summer.
It’s a race to get back to the feet, it’s nearing time in the match where it can go either way and whoever strikes next may be in the drivers seat for the Double Feature Championship!
BOTH OF THEM RISE IN UNISON!
MEFISTO GOES FOR ANOTHER BIG BOOT!
SWEET ALICE DUCKS!
SHE TOSSES HIM INTO THE CORNER!
MEFISTO COMES STUMBLING BACK OUT!
ROUNDHOUSE KICK!
ROUNDHOUSE KICK LANDS FLUSH AND MEFISTO IS SENT FLYING INTO THE TURNBUCKLE BEFORE FALLING FLAT ON HIS FACE!
SWEET ALICE ROLLS AND COVERS!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
She does it! Sweet Alice does it! She retains victory here at Blood Stained Summer and keeps possession of the Double Feature Championship belt!
THE WHO
SOMEWHERE ELSE
The Observatory
The Judge sits alone, mulling. His eyes are focused on a small piece of parchment that sits in his hands, yet we cannot see what is written on it. He thinks aloud to himself.
“I finally know. Tracking the evidence, the traces. Even with the flaws in the Observatory, I’ve finally been able to piece together the jigsaw. I know the who…”
He folds the parchment and tucks it inside his armor. Picks up his axe.
“What I don’t know is why… Or how.”
His head tilts slightly to one side, there’s still something that’s not adding up.
“How was this kept from me? Why? When I restored balance, The Reaper’s family had to die. But…”
His voice trails off into thought.
“I need to confront the Who… I need some answers. Only then can I see just how deep this goes.”
With a flash of light, The Judge is gone.
Cut.
SANCTUS BELLATOR VS. BRENT KERSH
SINGLES MATCH
Will the sins of the father be forgiven!?
Brent raises his hand, inviting Sanctus to tie-up.
Pride may be a sin, but Christ’s Forgotten Son still seems confident he can take the veteran.
They lock horns! Kersh slaps a headlock on Bellator – who slips out! Brent stands with his hands on his hips, one eyebrow raised. Sanctus simply nods.
Kersh extends a hand once more. Bellator cautiously accepts – only to be dragged into a fireman’s carry takedown!
Sanctus, however, lands on his feet!
Despite his actions leading up to this match, a kneeling Brent smiles at his opponent.
For the third time, he offers his hand. The Chosen One takes it—
ARM OF GOD!
LA MISTICA—NO!
Brent huffs Sanctus off of him while in the headscissors!
Bellator races to his feet…
CLOTHESLINE!
There ain’t nothing fancy about that, but it was damn sure effective!
ONE!
…
…
TW—KICKOUT!
Sanctus shakes the cobwebs off.
This is one old-timer he’d better not underestimate…
The Enforcer peels him off the mat and sends him into the ropes—
SPRINGBOARD ARM DRAG!
Bellator bounces back—literally—with the takedown. He darts out onto the apron…
TOPE ATOMICO!
ONE!
…
…
TWO!
…
KICK OUT!
Sanctus wastes no time after being shown up earlier. He scales the turnbuckles—
SPLIT-LEGGED MOONSAULT!
BUT KERSH GETS HIS KNEES UP!
BELLATOR CLUTCHES HIS RIBS AND WRITHES ON THE MAT!
Brent drops a leg across his throat and covers him.
ONE!
…
…
TWO!
…
SHOULDER UP!
It’ll take more than that to put a Templar down!
Sanctus gets to his feet. He charges at Brent—
BUT THE WILY VET PULLS THE TOP ROPE DOWN!
SANCTUS FLIES OUTSIDE – INTO A SURFBOARD!
CRACK!
He lands half-buried in the sand.
Brent slides out after him – no countouts in The Slaughterhouse! He digs him out, then scoops him up…
BODY SLAM INTO A DECK CHAIR!
The seat remains upright, catching Sanctus. Brent, meanwhile, climbs the apron—
ELBOW DROP THROUGH THE DECK CHAIR!
SNAP!
Bellator lies in a heap of canvas and broken wood. The official rules that collateral damage is legal! Kersh picks the luchador up and rolls him back inside.
Sanctus looks up at the grizzled Enforcer, who stands over him.
“You tell me I should retire!?” Brent yells, pointing at his chest. “I beat your dad’s ass, and I can beat yours, boy!”
The crowd pop big for that, as he grabs Sanctus’ leg—
LONE STAR FIGURE FOUR!
BELLATOR KICKS HIM AWAY!
SANCTUS MOVES IN FOR THE SPANISH FLY!
IMPERTIO!
HE HITS IT!
ONE!
…
…
TWO!
…
…
THREE!
Sanctus does it for his friend!
DENIAL
SOMEWHERE ELSE
Backstage, Alton Whitlock has a problem.
His phone won’t work.
Tonight, he’s getting his hands on the one who has been torturing him for weeks.
But right now–he needs to address the nation before their match.
To tell the people one last time, like he had been all week, that what they saw in that video was not real. That it had never happened.
“Tonight,” he says quietly to himself, practicing his speech, praying for the phone to boot up, “I’m going to show the world that Anonymous is nothing but a troll. A liar…”
He has the words, but no way to broadcast them.
Whitlock sighs, then leans back in his metal folding chair. He looks ready for the match.
A minute later, when his phone abruptly comes to life, he nearly drops it.
But what he sees on it is not the typical boot screen.
Instead, it’s a 3D rendering of a white Guy Fawkes mask. A distorted voice booms through the speaker.
“MONEY. POWER. GLORY,” it says.. “Are these not the values you once professed, Alton Whitlock?”
“I never believed in them. Not truly. And those days are finished. I made sure of it.”
“YOU ARE NOT WITHOUT SIN,” the voice says, getting louder and more distorted, “You deserve to suffer.”
“You’re not going to save the world this way,” Alton Whitlock says softly. “You know that, right?”
“When you are broken,” the voice responds, “all mankind will benefit. It needs saved from you. YOU CANNOT DENY WHAT YOU ARE.”
“And what’s that?”
“A plague.”
“I was thinking president,” replies Whitlock. “You can’t stop me. You won’t.”
“THE WORLD WILL NOT BE HELD IN YOUR TYRANNICAL GRASP.”
Click. The mask disappears.
Whitlock’s phone emits a loud grinding noise.
He looks at it in confusion–then instinctively hurls the phone away from him.
It explodes in a bright fireball halfway across the locker room.
Alton Whitlock looks on in shock–and then sprints out of the room to find a fire extinguisher.
Cut.
JESSIE WILLIAMS VS. SANDY ROGERS
SINGLES MATCH
It’s Blood Stained Summer and we’ve got another Grudge match on tap! The Prince and Your Friendly Neighbour finally settle the score!
Jessie Williams towers over the much smaller Sandy Rogers but it’s Rogers who kicks things off with a sharp SLAP! to the face with Jonathan in hand! The slap stumbles Jessie but more so pisses him off than anything. Williams lands a huge BOOT TO THE GUT!
Rogers is in motion, Williams with a BIG CLOTHESLINE! Rogers goes flying!
Williams catches Rogers trying to get back to his feet and sends him literally ACROSS the ring with a perfect form gut wrench power bomb! Rogers SMACKS the canvas!
Jessie Williams covers the leg!
ONE!
TWO!
NO!
Sandy Rogers just BARELY slips out of an early defeat! Williams wanted to end this quick and painlessly but he’s going to have to keep battling!
Williams attempts to maintain control but a quick snapping kick to the knee cap hyper extends his knee and stops him dead in his tracks!
HAPPY FACE!
THE PALM STRIKE DROPS WILLIAMS!
Blood begins to trickle down his nose and he recognizes it but Rogers is now stomping a mud hole in his head with full control as Williams is trapped in the corner!
More blood starting to pool from Williams nose and Sandy Rogers panics! He doesn’t like the site of blood!
“STOP! AWW! STOP!” Rogers begins pacing back and forth, giving up control in the match.
Meanwhile, The Prince nails a CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL WITH THE BOOMSTICK!!!
He covers!
ONE!
TWO!
THRE-NO!
SANDY ROGERS BARELY KICKS OUT! Williams is frustrated but he tip-ups to his feet, smears the blood from his nose as Rogers grimaces in anguish over it!
Jessie BOOTS Sandy in the gut! He puts him in the powerbomb position!
The Prince lifts his opponent into the air, stalling at the very top!
SANDY ROGERS PUNCHES HIM!
HURRICANARANA WITH THE ROLL UP IN!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
NOOOO!
JESSIE WILLIAMS JUST BAAAARELY PUSHES HIM OFF!
Sandy recognizes that he now has blood smeared across the chest of his mustard sweater vest and is absolutely sick to his stomach, nearly puking as he heaves displeasure bent over through the ropes.
Jessie Williams stirs to his feet in time sending Sandy Rogers out of the ring with a drop kick to the back.
He joins him sliding under the ropes, slamming his head off of the guard rail! WHAM!!!
THEN AGAIN OFF THE RING STEPS! WHAM!!!
THEN AGAIN OFF OF THE TURNBUCKLE! WHAM!!!!
SANDY ROGERS IS LEAKING HIS OWN BLOOD NOW AND HE IS DOWNRIGHT DISGUSTED!
JESSIE WILLIAMS HAS ASCENDED TO THE TOP ROPE!
OH MY GOD!
SWANTON BOMB INTO A STANDING SANDY ROGERS!
THE OSW FAITHFUL POP IN UNISON!
Jessie Williams rolls Sandy Rogers into the ring and keeps his momentum rolling with an irish whip!
Williams looks for the shoulder block, Rogers evades! He stomps the back of Williams earlier hyper extended knee! The Prince grimaces in pain!
Sandy Rogers has time and he’s soaking it up! He is pointing at his hand puppet Jonathan! The fans are popping because they know what’s coming!
JESSIE WILLIAMS IS FEELING BLUE!
THE MANDIBLE CLAW!!
Williams is kicking and flailing as he tries desperately to push Sandy Rogers from his advantageous position!
Williams finally breaks the…… submission? With a foot on the ropes and the official breaks it up!
SANDY ROGERS IS WAITING!
KICK TO THE GUT!
THE STUNNER!
QUICKSAND!!!
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!!!!
IT’S OVER!
The Prince has done it tonight! Ending what’s become a bitter feud between teacher and his student! The student prevails this evening!
THE GUILD
SOMEWHERE ELSE
The Butcher continues to be held in a secret location.
He sits at a large desk within his confinement, looking through a multitude of documents.
The monitor suddenly flickers, bringing with it a distorted voice.
“I see you’re happy with your documentation,” he says calmly.
“Limehouse has been managing affairs well in my absence,” The Butcher remarks, moving between papers.
“I wouldn’t expect anything less from a member of The Guild,” the voice says, immediately drawing a side eye from Colin, who plays it cool.
“Is that supposed to impress me?” The Butcher asks calmly. “You name drop The Guild and I’m supposed to fall apart, is that it?”
“You wanted to know why you’re being kept here and that’s the reason,” he continues. “I know there’s more to your acquisition of Old School Wrestling than The Skull Order.”
Colin doesn’t say anything. He looks down at his paperwork, almost calmly ignoring his captor.
“I also know why you’d be apprehensive about speaking with me. There’s a high cost in consequences for speaking about The Guild with an unregistered member.”
The Butcher sits back in his chair, almost aloof.
“I have no idea what you’re talking about, but you seem to think you know a thing or two.”
There’s a pause.
“You don’t want to play games with me, Butch!” He finally says in an angered tone, breaking the cool exterior he’d displayed up to this point. “You’re here in this hell until I get the answers I want. You don’t have much time to waste, believe me.”
Colin’s eyebrows furrow as he leans forward, looking intently at the monitor.
“I might have more time than you realize,” he replies sternly. “Because they’re coming for me, son. I’m far too important to be left behind and they know that’s truly at stake.”
“The Kingdom is falling. Like dominos tumbling down, each one barrels into the next and you, my dear captive, will take me to the next domino.”
The Butcher folds his arms matter of factly, signifying that he won’t.
Cut.
BISHOP & MALICE © VS. TANK © & LANE ©
TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS
The OSW Tag Team Championships are on the line, but the Michaela Lane and Tank Kersh aren’t here?!
Malice and Bishop move around the ring hesitantly. Finally, they begin telling the referee to count them out since they’re not here. The referee looks to the entrance way as if expecting an answer to appear there. He finally nods and begins counting.
ONE…
TWO…
THREE…
Still not a sign as Malice is leaned back against the turnbuckle.
FOUR…
FIVE…
Bishop is leaning back on the ropes as he fiddles with his hair momentarily.
SIX…
SEVEN…
EIGHT…
NINE…
TE-NO! Lane and Kersh slide into the ring from out of the crowd!
All Hell is breaking lose as Tank tackles Malice and begins pounding away on him. Lane nails a clothesline sending Bishop right over the top rope. She climbs out and rams him into the ring apron. She begins piling on the blows as Tank finally releases Malice long enough to stand up. He hooks the side of Malice and lifts him up.
OLYMPIC SLAM!
Tank goes for the cover!
ONE…
TWO…
TH-NO! Malice kicks out with authority.
Malice reaches up and rakes the eyes of Tank before slowly rising to his feet. On the outside, Lane has stepped up onto the apron and looks down at Bishop who is slowly rising. She leaps for a diving elbow, but she’s caught in mid-air!
DEADEYE!
The spear nearly broke her in half!
Tank Kersh nails Malice with a kick to the midsection before hitting the ropes. But he trips as he comes off of them! He turns to see Bishop grinning at him. He turns back and…
GORE!
The spear just collapsed him in two! Malice yanks him to the middle of the ring and covers him.
ONE…
TWO…
KICKOUT! Kersh won’t die!
Malice grabs him by his arm and yanks him to his feet before whipping him into the ropes. He rebounds only to get slung across the ring with a release belly-to-belly suplex! Malice is just ragdolling Tank at this point. Bishop rolls into the ring and begins motioning for something. Malice picks him up and Bishop lifts up Tank before dropping him face-first onto the top turnbuckle! He hits the ropes and comes with a big boot!
THE LIGHTPIERCER!
The superkick came out of nowhere as Bishop catches it right on his chin as tumbles through the ropes to the floor below. Malice rushes at Michaela and grabs a handful of her hair before just chopping her HARD across the chest! He rears back and nails ANOTHER chop. Michaela’s chest is now very brightly red. Malice sends Michaela into the ropes and rushes towards her.
LARIAT FROM HELL!
Lane is turned upside down and inside out before crashing to the mat in a heap. Malice covers.
ONE…
TWO…
BROKEN UP! Tank kicks Malice right in the side of the head.
Malice stands up, but Tank takes him out at the knee! Malice falls to a knee gripping his knee. Tank wraps up his arms into a full nelson before leaning back for a full nelson slam!
KERSH POWER!
Tank covers him!
ONE…
TWO…
THR-BROKEN UP!
Bishop kicks him right in the side of the head in mirror fashion! Bishop grabs up Tank and nails him with a boot to the midsection followed by a running big boot. Tank is out on his feat!
Bishop turns around and…
THE LIGHTPIERCER!
The superkick connects! RIGHT TO THE CHIN OF TANK KERSH!
Bishop managed to dodge and redirect the kick! Lane looks shocked before she’s nailed with an uppercut followed by a tombstone piledriver!
LAST RITES!
Bishop covers!
ONE…
TWO…
THREE!
Bishop and Malice have won a big one here tonight as they hold the OSW Tag Team Championships close to themselves.
HELPING HAND
BACKSTAGE
Tucked away in a corner room of the Slaughterhouse, Jessie Williams is going through a small chest. Newspaper clippings are strewn all around. The headlines tell the story.
Four Bodies Found in Cabin.
Drug Addict Mutilates and Murders Friends?
The same woman as Jessie saw in the S-Mart photo last week in Lucid Falls, Mia Allen, appears in the papers.
Beside the chest, Jessie has a small USPS box, with no return address. It’s been cut open, and within it is the strangest of sights.
A crushed hand.
Barely recognizable as a limb, it has been carefully preserved. A letter sits beside it.
Jessie,
Don’t believe everything you read in the papers, Mia Allen didn’t kill those kids. Your dad knew this. I’ll find you when it’s time.
A friend.
P.S. Don’t go back to Lucid Falls without me. Don’t give Rogers the book.”
The Prince pours through the clippings, shaking his head.
“There’s no fucking connection here.” He mutters. “How the hell did Mia Allen survive and then go to Lucid Falls to see Sandy?”
He throws his hands up in frustration.
“Dad’s out there somewhere, and I’m playing Magnum PI here.”
Out of Jessie’s confusion, a new voice speaks.
“Glad you got my helping hand, kid.”
The new voice is very familiar, yet unexpected here.
“Need some help?”
Jessie turns around to face the voice, a smile tugging at his face.
“I’ll be damned.”
He nods down at hand and box.
“I can’t say I expected to see you here.”
Cut.
ANONYMOUS VS. ALTON WHITLOCK
SINGLES MATCH
It’s a battle between power and revelation as Alton Whitlock steps into the ring with Anonymous.
The battle begins with a big kick to the midsection followed by a side headlock takedown by Anonymous! Alton is frustrated as can be as he’s reaching up and yanking at the sides of Anonymous’ mask! Instantly, Anon drops Alton and quickly stands up and adjusting his mask.
Alton’s mouth widens into a grin.
He rushes forward and nails a kick to the midsection followed by a snap suplex. Alton quickly puts his hands back on the mask, but Anonymous catches him right a thumb right to the eye. He hooks the arms of Whitlock and quickly pulls him down into a crucifix roll-up!
ONE…
Two..
TH-NO! Alton escapes at the last second.
Anonymous quickly whips Alton into the corner and follows him with a body splash that sends Alton into the bottom corner. Anonymous hits the ropes before coming back with a swanton bomb! He pulls Alton out of the corner and places his hand on his face as he pins him.
ONE…
TWO…
TH-NO! Alton kicks out!
Alton quickly reaches for the mask again, but Anonymous grabs his fingers and quickly drops a knee onto the side of Alton’s head as he pries back on the wrist for a form of wristlock! Alton cries out in pain! Anonymous transitions out of this hold to their feet where he whips him into the ropes. Alton catches himself there as Anonymous doesn’t approach.
Whitlock instead moves towards him as he lowers his shoulder and catches Anonymous by surprise before driving him down into the mat with a spinebuster! He grabs the arm of Anonymous and places the head underneath his leg before hitting the Overdrive!
PARTY POLITICS!
Alton quickly covers him up!
ONE…
TWO…
TH-NO! The nightmare is still going on for Alton!
Whitlock lifts up Anonymous and hooks his arms! He begins to turn him around for his finisher, but Anonymous shifts his weight and drives a knee right into the midsection. He hits the ropes before leaping up, placing the head of Whitlock beneath his legs and…
GUNPOWDER PLOT!
But Whitlock managed to push him away! Anonymous slams onto his behind. Alton grabs his mask and begins yanking on it before delivering a kick to the midsection followed by two stiff jabs. He hooks the arms of Anonymous before lifting him up and DROPPING him onto his head!
BETTER WORLD!
Alton quickly rolls him over and hooks his leg!
ONE…
TWO…
THREE!!!
Alton Whitlock rises to his feet with a large grin as he’s done it!
DEAL
BACKSTAGE
Backstage, Sigil is preparing for his match when scientists surround him! He quickly springs to action!
He rears his arms back to throw a massive punch but his shoulder is grabbed!
It’s Mark Gouldern!
“Now, now Sigil, did you really think I would try to execute the same plan that failed a few weeks ago? Doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting different results? I’m not insane, realm walker. I simply wanted to discuss our match.”
“You have made it so I can’t have my old technology back, my mistake for using archaic security measures. However, when we gave up recovering lost technologies, we did what we’re best at, innovation. My team and I manufactured a way to render your abilities useless yet I don’t want to do that to you. You see, without the gear to make me an elite fighter, I’m still a genius who knows the ins and outs of this ring. I still see a chance of me being victorious, reduced probability but still a chance; however, what are you without your abilities? You’re nothing and I can’t live with myself if I take the only thing that gives your life meaning.”
Sigil is sneering
“What is the point of this conversation?”
“I don’t want to do that but I’m willing to do it to give myself an equalizer. Let’s make it easy, no tech, no cosmic abilities, a regular fight with no gimmicks. What do you say?”
“Are you really not going to use technology?”
“Affirmative, I don’t have it.”
“Fine then, deal.”
Gouldern reaches out his hand!
Sigil shakes it and feels a slight shock.
“What was that?”
“What was what?”
“I felt my hand get shocked during our handshake.”
“Probably just a buildup of static electricity, you see the sweater I’m wearing.”
“You better be telling the truth, Gouldern.”
“As should you Sigil. No cosmic abilities.”
“Understood, no technology?”
“Affirmative.”
“See you out there.”
They both walk separate ways.
“The fool thinks I’m going to not use tech?”
“The fool thinks I won’t leap through time?”
They both roll their eyes and chuckle.
“Idiot!”
Cut.
REDWING VS. THE BLOOD RED SHARK
SINGLES MATCH
A war of heroes that has driven scars down their psyche. Bill Kirby has managed to bring himself back from the brink of darkness but can he repay the favor to Axel and save him from his rage or will he get dragged down into the frenzied water once more?
The bell sounds as BRS rushes forward, trying for a Lariat that Redwing manages to duck under before trying for an Axe Kick that the Shark slips away, delivering a stiff elbow to the jaw of Redwing that staggers the Red Knight back before a hard leaping knee sends him staggered back into the corner. The Shark doesn’t let up, delivering a hard running shoulder to the gut before mounting Redwing for punches in the corner. The Shark manages to get to seven before he’s thrown off by Kirby, as a hard dropkick staggers the Shark back this time but a second attempt at the Lariat is countered
DROP TOE HOLD ONTO THE SECOND ROPE!
Redwing hits the thick plastic throat first as he staggers to his feet trying to regain his breath right into an onrushing Shark
WHO SPEARS THE BOTH OF THEM THROUGH THE DAMN ROPES!
Both men crash to the floor, The Shark mounting Redwing with furious blows as Kirby can only cover up and try to mimize the damage from the enraged Shark. He finally manages to throw the Shark off him, but as Kirby tries to get to his feet, his left leg gets kicked out from under him as the Shark rolls back a few steps before rushing forward
BLOODY MARY! THE SHINING WIZARD ON THE SAND!
Redwing’s cowl protected him from the worst of that but he’s still loopy from the hit as he’s pulled up to his feet, BRS delivering a series of savage knees to the gut before a hard elbow splits his lip open just the slightest. Blood Red Shark tastes Kirby’s blood as a savage grin erupts on his face, a stiff headbutt leaving Redwing out on his feet as he hooks Kirby’s right arm into a hammerlock
BLOOD….NO! Redwing manages to spin his way out before delivering a stiff kick to Blood Red Shark’s gut and hooks both arms into position in one swift movement
RETURN TO ARKHAM…ON THE GODDAMN SAND! Sharkie may well be out of it here as Redwing hoists him up to his feet before rolling him into the ring and trying for hopefully the end of this match
ONE
….
TWO
…. HARD KICKOUT! Redwing’ll have to do a lot more to put down the Shark here tonight.
Redwing pulls the Blood Red Shark up to his feet, delivering another hard shot to the gut before the axe kick hits the second time. Kirby tries for the elbow smash but The Shark was ready for it, swinging out as he tries for a roundhouse kick. Redwing ducks under, grabbing The Shark’s arm from behind before spinning him around
INTO THE GODWATCH! The Ripdcord Knee hits flush as The Shark is out on his feet, Redwing grabbing him into a bulldog headlock before rushing forward
WITH THE KILLING JOKE! The bulldog driver puts the Shark down onto one knee but fury is still in his eyes as Redwing delivers a hard knee to the jaw before lifting The Blood Red Shark high up into the air
RED JUSTICE! The Brainbuster onto the knee finishes off the Trifecta of moves and this may be all Redwing needs to put the Shark down
ONE
….
TWO
….
THRE….
…..
NO! The Shark just gets the shoulder up!
Redwing just shakes his head, wanting to not inflict more damage on his friend then he has to as he rushes to the ropes just as Axel slowly gets to his feet,
DARKNESS…..
THE SHARK BITES DOWN ON KIRBY’S LEG!
Redwing collapses to the mat in pain, his armor protecting him from the worst of the bite but blood still pools from the now exposed calf as The Shark spits a chunk of kevlar and mesh before letting the blood of Kirby run down his mouth in a sickening grin. Kirby tries to stand but the wound is deep as he’s basically one leg now and the Shark knows it. Blood Red Shark rushes forward, Redwing just managing to duck a running kick but can’t dodge the elbow to the back of the head, staggering Redwing as he’s locked into the hammerlock and spun around
BLOOD MONEY! The Hammerlock DDT spikes Redwing into the mat as the Shark floats over for the cover
ONE
….
TWO
…..
THRE…
…..
KICKOUT!
The Shark scowls for a moment before backing up as he waits patiently for Redwing to get to his feet, the Red Knight using the ropes to pull himself up to his feet as The Blood Red Shark rushes forward right as Redwing pulls something from his utility belt
AND THROWS A TRIO OF REDBLADES AT BLOOD RED SHARK!
The Shark blocks them with his gauntlet but is blind for a moment as he walks right into a hard headbutt
RETURN TO ARKHAM!
Redwing spikes The Shark into the mat with that DDT once more as he works through the pain, ignoring his bum leg as he rushes to the ropes once more looking for the end
Redwing bounces off the ropes but he can’t quite make it to the Blood Red Shark before his leg gives out, and he collapses onto one knee ripe for a BLOODY MARY that busts the hero wide open as the blood begins to frenzy the Shark. He pulls Kirby up to one knee
A SECOND BLOODY MARY!
The Blood Red Shark barely lets Kirby hit the canvas before lifting him up,
BLOOD MONEY!
The Shark tries for a second Hammerlock but the ref waves him off, Kirby clearly unconcious as the Blood Red Shark wins this match by TKO WITH THE FEEDING FRENZY!
The Blood Red Shark does it, once again defeating the Red Knight as from the look in his eyes, he has some terrifying intentions for the hero tonight.
YOU
RINGSIDE
The match is over, but the war is not.
The Shark rises, beady eyes trained on his foe. Redwing meets him and they stand toe to toe once more.
“It doesn’t have to be like this.” Redwing pleads. “I know that you can reach inside Axel and find yourself again.”
The Blood Red Shark isn’t listening. As quick as a hiccup, he is on Redwing. Laying in left and right shots with reckless abandon. Fists and Elbow Strikes send Redwing reeling into the turnbuckle, he’s caught Redwing by surprise and Redwing has no answer.
BLOODY MARY! REDWING HITS THE MAT HARD!
THIS IS IT!
THE BLOOD RED SHARK SMELLS BLOOD AND IS GOING IN FOR THE KILL!
HE’S GOT HIS HEAD IN HIS ARMS AND IS GOING TO SNAP REDWING’S NECK!
BUT THE CROWD POP! SOMEBODY ELSE IS CHARGING DOWN TO THE RING!
THE REAPER!
HE SLIDES IN AND BLINDSIDES THE SHARK BEFORE THE KILLING BLOW CAN LAND!
A scuffle breaks out, with The Reaper taking the fight to the Blood Red Shark. Both men exchange blow after blow, brutal clubbing blows that rock each other. But The Reaper soon gets the upper hand. He kicks The Blood Red Shark in the gills, before SHOULDER CHARGING HIM INTO THE CORNER!
NOW IT IS REAPER’S TURN TO LINE UP THE FINISHING BLOW!
RED MIST!
RED MIST TO THE EYES OF THE REAPER!
THAT GOT HIM RIGHT IN THE FACE!
…
At that exact moment, a blinding light pierces the air. In the next moment, The Judge is standing in the center of the ring.
He’s come for answers.
One of these men is the reason why The Reaper’s family had to die.
The arrival of The Judge allows a little breathing space. Redwing has made his way to his feet, and The Blood Red Shark is standing on the opposite side of the ring. The Judge turns…
HE TURNS TOWARDS BILL KIRBY!
POINTING HIS AXE!
…
…
…
BUT THE AXE IS NOT POINTED AT KIRBY.
IT’S POINTED AT THE REAPER!
…
“You.” The Judge’s voice sounds, emotionless.
“I have searched high and low. For weeks. And all the while the answer has been staring right back at me. You humans and your petty games. All the evidence is clear. One name continues to come to the forefront of my investigation… YOURS.”
The Axe is still trained on The Reaper. In this moment, nothing else matters to the Judge. Not the Blood Red Shark slinking away to fight another day. Not the confusion around the arena.
“Reaper… YOU are the one who cheated death and upset the balance of the Observatory. Your family died to take YOUR PLACE. It is the way is must be. All I did was restore balance that needed to be restored. YOU are the one who upset that balance. But WHY? HOW? When YOU should be dead right now, that they have taken your place?”
But The Reaper is not listening. This entire time, he has been trying to clear the Red Mist from his eyes.
Only… It’s taken effect on him.
He looks back at The Judge with narrowed eyes. A predatory look in them. He’s searching too… For BLOOD.
And he smells it on the end of the Judge’s axe that is still pointed at him.
THE JUDGE VS. THE REAPER
SINGLES MATCH
It’s a stand off in the ring as The Reaper and The Judge aren’t budging an inch.
The bell sounds as The Reaper lets out a guttural cry before POUNDING The Judge right across the face with a brutal haymaker! The Judge staggers backwards before ramming Reaper back into the corner where he’s driving fists into his midsection! All the while, Reaper is driving elbow shots down onto his back!
Vicious shots back and forth between the two men!
The Reaper finally catches Judge with an uppercut to send him back. He rushes forward with another uppercut that connects followed directly by hooking his head.
SWIFT REVENGE!
The DDT drives Judge’s head down into the mat, but The Reaper just rolls him over and begins plowing into him with ruthless rights followed by two severe headbutts! He rears back for a third, but The Judge punches him in the abdomen to stagger him.
Blood is now pouring down the face of The Reaper who is irate. He rushes towards The Judge again, but he dodges out of the way before catching Reaper with an STO! Reaper hits the ground for a second before bouncing back up only to find the teeth of The Judge digging into his flesh! Reaper cries out in agony before being released and dropped with a cutter!
YOUR PAST MAY BITE YOU!
The Judge rolls him over and pins him down.
ONE…
TWO…
TH-NO! The Reaper powers out with a grunt.
The Judge staggers backwards allowing for Detroit’s own to rise back to his feet. The Reaper yells out again before rushing towards The Judge. The foot of Judge rises up, but Reaper catches it with a grin. He spins The Judge around before lifting him up for a Samoan Drop!
JUSTICE BROUGHT!
The Reaper quickly rolls over and pins down The Judge but not before spitting some of his blood into The Judge’s face!
ONE…
TWO…
Th-NO! The Judge powers out with aggression!
Both men stagger to their feet dripping in the blood of Reaper. The Reaper rushes towards Judge who sidesteps him and sticks out his foot! Reaper actually trips and staggers into the ropes which catch him. His eyes light up in embarrassment before whipping around and moving!
Right into a boot!
THE VERDICT!
The Spartan Kick sends him tumbling over as The Judge doesn’t even seem interested in covering him here. Instead, he kicks him twice in the side before lifting him up off the mat. The Reaper is practically dead weight. The Judge pulls him between his legs and lifts him up…
RESTO- THE SHOTGUN BLAST!
As The Judge lifted him up, The Reaper slipped from his grasp and came down with a huge Superman punch! The Judge crumples to the mat as the impact sends Reaper backwards into the corner. He’s breathing heavily as he slowly crawls towards The Judge and barely makes a cover with an arm draped over his chest!
ONE…
TWO…
THREE!
NO! The Judge’s foot was on the bottom rope at the very last second.
The Reaper slumps off as both men take a moment to catch their breath. Finally, The Reaper sits up and begins to pull himself to his feet. The Order slowly begins to stir as well. They both get to their feet as The Reaper suddenly rushes forwards.
THE SHOTG-NO!
THE VERDICT!
As he leapt into the air, The Judge planted his boot right into the chest to send him back into the corner.
The Reaper hits with a thud before staggering forwards right into the arms of The Judge who puts him between his legs before hoisting him up for…
RESTORATION!
The Judge slowly falls to his knees before covering him.
ONE…
TWO…
THREEEE!
The Judge calls this court session to a close as he rises up over his agitated foe.
NO SHOW
RINGSIDE
There’s a quiet hiss inside the arena that soon turns into roaring boo’s when SeeSaw, Doctor D’Ville and a group of orderlies drag Luke Storm towards the ring backstage.
Edward Newton may have only once chance to save his life.
They force him to kneel in on the hard concrete, lording over him.
“Edward?” D’Ville asks proudly. “You must understand the consequences of ignoring us. We refuse to be ignored.”
SeeSaw slaps Storm across the back of the head and giggles.
“Our demands are simple; the OSW Championship. Bring it to us and we’ll let your brother go.”
He pauses, waiting to see if Newton appears.
He doesn’t.
“You’re going to get one opportunity, young man. Just one. I’m going to set loose my son on your brother. If you haven’t made a decision by the time their fight is done, I’ll make the decision for you.”
There’s a evil sneer across his face as the camera closes in.
“And I warn you – once I’m done with him, I’m coming for Scarlett.”
Luke looks up at D’Ville, the rage on his face palpable.
“Sick em, boy.”
SEESAW VS. LUKE STORM
SINGLES MATCH
The Slaughterhouse faithful rise to their feet, craning their necks at the sudden commotion atop the ramp.
THUD!
SMACK!
RATTLE!
Two silhouettes bounce each other off the illuminated, metallic interior of the gear-shaped entrance tunnel!
Flesh, bone, and steel collide as the figures work towards the lip of the stage. The taller individual lands a haymaker, staggering his target. He charges at him—
HE GORES HIM OUT OF THE TUNNEL AND INTO THE AIR… SPINEBUSTER ON IMPACT!
SUPERFINE TURBINE BLAST!
SEESAW BREAKS LUKE STORM IN HALF!
The crowd erupt as the mayhem spills out before their eyes. Doctor D’Ville emerges to a symphony of boos, beaming with pride at his son’s penchant for destruction.
Neither man is anywhere near the ring, and the bell hasn’t rung.
The toy-collector mounts Storm and rains down on him with thunderous blows!
HE SHATTERS HIS SHADES!
Lens shards stick out of SeeSaw’s bloodied knuckles, but the psychotic clown doesn’t care! He goes back to pounding Luke’s face, simultaneously carving him up and burying the fragments further into his own hand!
But you don’t want to fight a mixed martial-artist on the ground!
Storm cracks SeeSaw with an elbow, sending a TOOTH flying!
SeeSaw falls back as Luke tries to crawl away. D’Ville, however, kicks him in the ribs with the point of his shoe! The crowd grill the Doctor, who sneers at them.
“Thank you, daddy!” SeeSaw gushes, advancing on Storm.
He pulls Luke’s studded leather jacket over his head—
AND WRAPS IT AROUND HIS FACE!
THE SPIKES PIERCE LUKE’S FACE AS HE THRASHES IN AGONY!
The fighter struggles to his feet, but SeeSaw yanks him back, tearing the jacket off—
WOODY’S ROUNDUP!
THE BACK OF STORM’S SKULL COLLIDES WITH THE STAGE!
THE ACTION-STAR’S LIMP BODY TUMBLES THE LENGTH OF THE RAMP!
HE LANDS IN A HEAP AT RINGSIDE!
Blood pools on the golden dunes under Luke’s face. He lifts his head, looking up at the ramp through crimson eyes.
In his heart, he knows that his brother, Edward, isn’t coming.
He has to do this alone.
“Oh, boy – a play-date at the beach!” SeeSaw rubs his hands together gleefully.
“Play nicely, son.” Doctor D’Ville’s silky voice drips with malice.
SeeSaw throws the ring skirt back and rummages underneath it, withdrawing a bucket and spade! These aren’t plastic toys, though – it’s a steel bucket and a shovel!
CLANG!
SEESAW CLATTERS STORM WITH THE BUCKET!
Evil machinations run through the mind of Mr. Make Believe, as he jams the bucket on Luke’s head.
Oh, no…
CRACK!
HE WAILS ON THE BUCKET WITH THE SHOVEL!
STORM’S EARDRUMS MAY HAVE BEEN BURST – not to mention the possible CONCUSSION!
Luke can barely muster the energy to remove his dented, bloodied helm.
D’Ville cackles maniacally as his pride and joy looms over the fallen Storm King, raising the shovel above his head.
He’s going to finish him right here!
LUKE THROWS SAND IN HIS EYES!
The fans pop BIG as a blinded SeeSaw drops the shovel. It embeds itself in the sand, its blade narrowly missing Storm! A panicked Doctor grabs a water bottle and tends to his son.
Slowly but surely, as he has done so many times before, Luke Storm rises.
He wipes the blood out of his eyes.
Crick!
He cracks his neck with a grimace.
SeeSaw stumbles to his feet, his makeup smeared and eyes inflamed.
He points at Luke accusingly.
“You cheated!”
The manchild lunges at Storm, scooping him up onto his shoulders.
TEETER-TOTTER!
LUKE ESCAPES THE REVERSE DEATH VALLEY DRIVER…
LIGHTNING STRIKE OUTTA NOWHERE—
DOWNPOUR CODEBREAKER!
STORM HITS THE ONE-TWO COMBO!
If this contest had officially started, it’d be over – but this fight won’t end with a pin or submission!
D’Ville frantically tries to rouse SeeSaw—literally prying his eyelids open—but he’s out like a light. The audience reaches a boiling point, and the Doctor looks around in confusion. Cold realisation sets in as he slowly stands and turns around.
Electricity crackles in Luke Storm’s sapphire-blue eyes, framed by scarlet. He clutches his ribs and smiles.
“I owe ya one, Doc!”
LIGHTNING STRIKE!
A SUPERKICK A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY!
The crowd lose their SHIT – as does somebody else…
“DAAAA-DDYYYYYY!” SeeSaw’s voice cracks as he witnesses his father falling.
He’s awake.
And he is PISSED!
LIGHTNING STRI—
SEESAW BLOCKS THE KICK!
HE SPINS LUKE ROUND…
AND WRAPS THE FUCKING RING ROPE AROUND HIS THROAT!
HOLY SHIT, HE’S CHOKING LUKE OUT!
Storm’s aforementioned blue eyes bulge in their sockets as he gasps for air. SeeSaw digs his knee into Storm’s back and wrenches…
LUKE’S FACE IS TURNING PURPLE THROUGH THE BLOOD!
HIS TONGUE IS PROTRUDING!
The fans are losing hope as quickly as their hero is losing consciousness, the light in his eyes fading, fading…
HE’S OUT! LUKE STORM IS OUT COLD!
GOODNIGHT, SWEETHEART.
RINGSIDE
SeeSaw holds Storm there, choking to death in his arms.
He’s showing no mercy.
D’Ville quickly grabs a microphone.
“It’s almost over, Edward,” Doc reminds him gleefully. “Look at your brothers face; there’s not much fight left in him. My son is going to choke him to death, right here in this building and you’re not lifting a finger to help.”
Static.
Suddenly, a video plays across the tron.
It’s Edward Newton.
That gets a pop from the fans.
“Love is a fickle beast,” Newton interrupts. “As is hatred.”
D’Ville laughs.
“I’ve spent years concocting the best way to humiliate and punish my brother. I manipulated and warped the mind of Redwing to assist – something I’m certain I will atone for later. Little did I know, if I wanted him punished, I just needed to wait for you two fools to desire the OSW Championship.”
“Fools?” Doc queries. “We’re the fools but you’re the one interjecting, dear boy.”
“Like I said, love and hatred are fickle beasts,” Newton retorts with a wry smile. “If you kill my brother now, you’ll get nothing. If you even speak Scarlett’s name again, I will put every ounce of my mental and physical energy into killing every aspect of you both.”
SeeSaw looks at his dad with wide eyes, but Doc reminds him to remain cool by signalling with both hands to stay calm.
“I’ll get what you want,” he says confidently. “But at Invasion, you’ll have to fight for it.”
D’Ville nods in agreement.
“Very well,” he says happily. “We’ll see you there.”
Doc motions for SeeSaw to release Storm, dropping him to his knees, then to prone on the ground. He’s unconscious.
The orderlies soon appear, rushing to scoop Luke up and drag him away as D’Ville and SeeSaw talk quietly off microphone.
MARK GOULDERN VS. SIGIL ©
OSW CHAMPIONSHIP
It’s time for the main event of the evening! Sigil is defending his title against Mark Gouldern right now!
DING! DING!
Sigil rushes at Gouldern! He’s trying to end this quickly with the planeswalker! Running dropkick! No! Gouldern slides under Sigil! He gets the knees up and Sigil lands right on them! What a brilliant counter by Gouldern! Sigil’s back is bowing in pain and Gouldern hits a running runt kick to the small of the spine! Another one for good measure! Sigil’s back is already in agony! Mark Gouldern is taunting Sigil to get up!
SIGIL GETS TO HIS FEET!
KICK TO THE GUT BY GOULDERN!
PLANNED OBSOLESCENCE!
HE’S GOING FOR THE ELEVATED DDT!
NO!
SIGIL SHOVES HIM OFF RIGHT INTO THE REF!
THE REF GOES DOWN!
GOULDERN TURNS AROUND!
RAKE TO THE EYES BY SIGIL!
LONG ROAD AHEAD!
SIGIL HITS A BACKBREAKER AND HOLDS HIS OPPONENT ON HIS KNEE!
RAPID ELBOWS UNTIL GOULDERN ROLLS OFF SIGIL’S KNEE!
GOULDERN IS BUSTED OPEN!
Sigil can’t pin Gouldern so he shoves him out of the ring with his foot! Gouldern lands face-first into the sand! He’s coughing up the sand and getting back up! Sigil is going for the suicide dive but Gouldern has a surfboard and Sigil runs into it hard! Sigil looks out of it and Gouldern leans the surfboard against the barricade and the edge of the ring! He’s made a makeshift table and he pulls Sigil up!
GOULDERN STANDS ON THE SURFBOARD AND PULLS SIGIL UP WITH HIM!
HE HAS SIGIL’S HEAD LOCKED IN TIGHT!
PLANNED OBSOLESCENCE!
ELEVATED DDT THROUGH THE SURFBOARD!
IT SHATTERS!
WOOD IS FLYING EVERYWHERE!
GOULDERN GRABS ONE OF THE WOODEN SHARDS AND STARTS SLICING SIGIL’S HEAD!
HIS HEAD IS CUT WIDE OPEN!
BOTH MEN ARE BLEEDING CRIMSON!
THE REF IS GETTING UP SO GOULDERN ROLLS SIGIL IN THE RING AND MAKES THE COVER!
ONE!
. . .
TWO!
. . .
. . .
THR-NO!
SIGIL GETS THE SHOULDER UP!
Gouldern is livid and he starts stomping away on Sigil! Stomp! Stomp! Stomp! He pulls Sigil up and throws him hard into the ref! The ref is down again! Mark levels Sigil with a superkick! Gouldern rolls out of the ring and grabs the bottom half of the broken surfboard! He slides back in the ring! He’s shoving the broken end into Sigil’s back! He’s climbing the top rope! What does Mark have planned?!
GOULDERN IS ON THE TOP ROPE!
HE JUMPS!
DOUBLE FOOT STOMP INTO THE WOOD!
THE WOOD BREAKS IN SIGIL’S BACK AND HIS BACK IS POURING BLOOD!
GOULDERN THROWS WHAT’S LEFT OF THE SURFBOARD OUT OF THE RING!
GOULDERN DRAGS THE REF BY SIGIL AND SHAKES HIM AWAKE!
GOULDERN ROLLS SIGIL OVER AND COVERS!
ONE!
. . .
TWO!
. . .
. . .
THREE!
Gouldern has done it! He is your NEW OSW champion! Sigil has beaten Pandemonium and invasion winners but Gouldern gave it his all and earned the title!
NO!!!
SIGIL GETS HIS FOOT ON THE ROPE!
THE MATCH IS STILL GOING!
Gouldern is waiting for Sigil to get up! He’s rolling his arm, getting ready! Sigil gets to his feet! Gouldern is rushing at him!
HE’S GOING FOR DISRUPTION!
NO!
COSMIC LEAP TO DODGE IT!
WHAT’S GOING ON?
SIGIL TELEPORTED BEHIND GOULDERN BUT HE COLLAPSED TO A KNEE RIGHT AFTER!
“What did you do?!”
“I guaranteed my success. That shock you felt wasn’t static, it was me inserting a microchip that simulates a heart attack anytime it feels the concentration required to move between time and space. Don’t worry, it only lasts an hour so the consequences are temporary, just long enough to ensure you can’t do it in a match. I knew you were going to attempt it and I was right, now do you want to feel that pain again or fight like a man?”
SIGIL POPS UP AND BUM RUSHES GOULDERN INTO THE CORNER!
FOR THE COLLECTION!
HE’S CLAWING GOULDERN WHERE HE ELBOWED HIM BEFORE!
SKIN IS HANGING OFF AND BLOOD IS FLOWING ON GOULDERN LIKE A FOUNTAIN!
THEY’RE A CRIMSON MESS AND GOULDERN SHOVES SIGIL OFF!
RUTHLESS INSPIRATION!
STANDING DROPKICK BUT SIGIL TAKES THE HARD SHOT AND IS SHAKING HIS HEAD!
“MY TURN!”
PLANESWALKER!
HE HITS THE RUNNING DROPKICK BUT IT SENDS GOULDERN OUT OF THE RING!
Sigil is angry but he’s climbing the top rope! Diving crossbody! No! midair dropkick takes Sigil down! You can tell he’s done his research! The ref is asking them to bring it back inside! Pocket sand to the ref! The ref is more blind than usual. Gouldern tosses Sigil back in the ring and puts more sand in his hand! He slides in after him!
GOULDERN SHOVES HIS HAND INTO SIGIL’S MOUTH!
SANDY MANDY!
HE HAS THE MANDIBLE CLAW LOCKED IN AND SIGIL IS GAGGING ON THE SAND!
HE TURNS IT INTO A COVER!
THE REF FINALLY GETS THE SAND OUT OF HIS EYES AND COUNTS!
ONE!
. . .
TWO!
. . .
. . .
THR-NO!
SIGIL IS BITING GOULDERN’S HAND AND MARK IS FORCED TO LET GO!
THE MATCH GOES ON!
Gouldern is shaking his hand in pain and Sigil takes the opportunity to kick Mark’s leg! Another kick to the leg! Another! One more! Gouldern’s leg buckles underneath him! Hard shots from Sigil and he is not done! Stomp to the leg! Another stomp! Another! Jumping double foot stomp to the leg for good measure!
SIGIL SMIRKS AND GRABS THE LEG!
HE HOLDS IT TIGHT AND ROLLS!
CALF CRUSHER!
GOULDERN IS SCREAMING IN AGONY AS HE TRIES TO FIGHT IT OFF!
SIGIL IS WRENCHING THE LEG HARD AND OUT OF DESPERATION, GOULDERN SPITS AT SIGIL!
THE SPIT GETS IN SIGIL’S EYE AND HE LETS GO FOR A SECOND!
GOULDERN ESCAPES QUICKLY AND USES THE ROPES TO HELP HIMSELF UP!
They both get to their feet! They’re battered and bloodied but they’re trading blows! Sigil hits a right! Gouldern hits a right! Sigil hits a chop! Woo! Gouldern hits a chop! Woo! Sigil backs up and hits a dropkick right to Gouldern’s knee! Gouldern crumples up in an instant!
GOULDERN IS TRYING TO GET BACK TO HIS FEET!
HE USES THE ROPES TO GET TO A KNEE AND HOLD HIMSELF UP!
SIGIL SMIRKS AND CHARGES!
PLANESWALKER!
GOULDERN DIVES OUT OF THE WAY AND SIGIL HITS THE ROPES HARD!
HIS NECK GETS THE WORST OF IT!
GOULDERN IS LIMPING BUT HE MAKES ONE LAST DITCH EFFORT TO RUN AT SIGIL!
HE CHARGES!
DISRUPTOR!
HE USED ALL HIS ENERGY TO HIT THE SUPERMAN PUNCH AND HE COLLAPSES TO A COVER!
ONE!
. . .
TWO!
. . .
. . .
THREE!
Gouldern has done it! It took all of his energy to take on Sigil but he did just that and now, he is your NEW OSW champion!
THY BROTHERS KEEPER
RINGSIDE
Mark Gouldern has done it!
After losing his InVasion, he’s come back to defeat Sigil for the OSW Championship. He gets back to his feet as the title is delivered to him, raising it above his head.
There’s a mixed response from the crowd but that soon changes, surprising even the Tech Guru.
He turns around and KICK TO THE GUT!
NEVERMIND!
NEVERMIND!
NEWTON PLANTS HIM IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RING!
The Riddler gets back to his feet and turns to see Sigil running at him.
POP-UP POWERBOMB!
THE NEWTRON BOMB TO SIGIL!
KILL IT WITH FIRE!
JESUS CHRIST!
Edward quickly reaches into his pocket, launching Jigsaw pieces at Gouldern that pin him by his clothes to the canvas.
He picks up the OSW Championship and stands over him.
“This isn’t how I would’ve preferred to do this, but time is of the essence, I hope you understand,” Newton grumbles.
Groggily, Mark starts coming to, struggling to move.
“What’re you doing?” He demands to know. “What’s going on?”
“At InVasion, you’ll be able to get this back, but I don’t much like your odds,” Edward remarks with a smile. “Until then, it’ll stay with me.”
Mark struggles but to no avail.
“You can’t do this! I won’t let you. I’ll find you, Riddler. I’ll get my Championship back.”
Newton laughs.
“You’re welcome to try, big shot.”
The Riddler steps away, exiting the ring with the OSW Championship draped over his shoulder. Mark Gouldern looks on, the current OSW Champion without his title belt.
What’s going to happen next?