...Is The Deepest
Click.
Static covers the screen as a Play ► symbol appears in the bottom right-hand corner as fuzzy footage appears on the screen.
“Ready to die?” Felix Foley growls, gripping an oar tightly. “It won’t be that easy.”
He swings the oar with all his strength…
THWACK RIGHT ACROSS TOMBSTONE’S TEMPLE!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Last week, our feed cut off from the Mortuary, but Scott Sterling was able to recover the footage for us.
Felix throws the oar down onto the wooden planks with a loud crack, his chest heaving.
Tombstone slowly rises, his movements deliberate and eerily calm. A small dribble of black blood snakes its way down his temple from a fresh cut.
MATT RUBY: What?
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: It’s been a long time since we’ve seen that.
The Ferryman reaches up, dragging a finger through the viscous liquid before inspecting it with a twisted grin.
“All that,” Tombstone says, his voice dripping with mockery, “for a drop of blood. Was it worth it, Felix?”
Felix takes a step back, shaking his head, his expression a mix of defiance and disgust.
“You’re not invincible,” he snaps, pointing at Tombstone with trembling fingers. “And at Red Snow, I’m going to prove it.”
He spins on his heel and storms away. Tombstone watches him go, until the figure of Igor Mortis emerges from the shadows.
Igor steps onto the dock, his hollow eyes locking onto the Ferryman. He stoops, picking up the discarded oar with a long, deliberate motion before turning it over in his hands.
“Finish this,” Igor murmurs, his voice a low rumble. “No more ferrying until Red Snow.”
Tombstone’s grin falters as he steps toward Igor, his shadow looming over the smaller man, but Igor doesn’t flinch.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Tombstone has been ordered to finish Felix Foley!
“You’ve spent too long on this diversion,” Igor says, setting the oar against the dock. “If finishing this one will end it, then so be it.”
Cut.
Bachelorette Party
A party.
A demented, twisted, strange little party is what we set our eyes upon as the scene fades in. Presents wrapped in black, blood red cocktails, and in the center of it all is Aurora. The Thrillseeker, tied to a chair, slowly begins to come to. As her eyes open she glances around herself, her face quickly morphing into an expression of panic.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: By god, if this is meant to be a party then I don't want an invite!
MATT RUBY: I'll take your invite if you don't want it, Bronco.
"Oh, chile, you've finally awoke." The chilling voice of Calypso calls out, the Voodoo Child walking into the room with a plate of sandwiches. She places them in front of Aurora with a devious smile, sitting across from her. "Do you like it, zanmi? Your paramour insisted we throw you a party for your last days as a single woman."
"Fuck you," Aurora spits back, clearly exhausted as she rocks in her chair.
"Oh? I suppose I should let your husband to be know it was... Unsatisfactory. It might break that little black heart of his." Calypso chuckles, sipping from her cocktail, tilting her head. "Perhaps a drink to lighten the mood, hm?"
Calypso rises, grabbing one of the drinks nearby and bringing it to Aurora's lips, watching as she shies away, outright refusing to take a sip. "No need to be rude, zanmi. Drink."
RIGHT HOOK TO CALYPSO! BLACK MAGIC SLAMS INTO THE TABLE AND DRINKS GO FLYING!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Aurora just dislocated her wrist! She slipped free from the ropes!
MATT RUBY: Oh this party is finally getting good! Give us a cat fight!
Aurora grabs her wrist, popping it painfully back in place. Calypso tries to rise, only to catch a kick to the jaw that keeps her down! Running on pure instinct, Aurora flees the party, leaving a mess in her wake.
Cut.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: This upcoming match is a four corners match. To win, the competitors must touch all four corners before their opponent can!
MATT RUBY: I’ll touch all of Ayame’s corners!
Wolf Fang Ayame and Captain Arcadia circle one another, eyeballing the corners.
Cap tries to grab her, but she ducks, landing quick kicks to his legs.
Cap counters with a surprise arm drag, grounding Ayame momentarily. He moves to tag the first corner, but Ayame pulls him back into the center.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: As usual, Captain Arcadia is focused on the goal!
Arcadia creates some separation, but it backfires as Ayame gets a head of steam.
HIP ATTACK! THE TAIL STRIKE SENDS CAP INTO THE ROPES!
AYAME RUSHES TO THE CORNER, GETTING HER FIRST TAG!
AYAME: 1
As she goes for the second, Arcadia is there to counter.
SPINE ON THE PINE!
Using his advantage, Cap rushes to the nearest corner.
CAP: 1, AYAME: 1
Then the next.
CAP: 2, AYAME: 1
As Cap tags the second turnbuckle, Ayame rushes in there!
CORNER ENZIGURI! ON THE HUNT!
Ayame slaps the pad above Arcadia’s body with a grin.
CAP: 2, AYAME: 2
The Wolf launches into a series of strikes, backing up to rush in…
SCORPION KICK-NO!
CAP BACKS OUT, THROWING AYAME OVER THE TOP ROPE!
Cap rushes for the third corner, but Ayame was only sent to the apron.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: She’s walking the ropes, Ruby!
Ayame leaps onto Arcadia’s back, both of them falling into the third turnbuckle.
CAP: 3, AYAME: 3
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: We’re down to the wire, and they both know it.
They launch into an exchange of furious strikes. Arcadia grabs Ayame’s arm.
RIPCORD LARIAT! THE LAST LINE!
Arcadia rushes across the ring, hitting the last turnbuckle with authority!
CAP: 4, AYAME: 3
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Captain Arcadia has nailed all four corners here tonight, and took the win!
MATT RUBY: I’d nail… ah come on, BB, that one’s too easy... just like your old lady!
The Call
The room is dim and oppressive, the flickering glow of a single lamp barely illuminating the boarded windows. Mighty Mighty sits hunched on a battered couch, his torso wrapped in blood-stained bandages. His bruised face is a portrait of quiet defiance, each labored breath carrying the weight of his struggle. A faint continuous beep from the answering machine on the cluttered table shatters the heavy silence.
Mighty’s swollen hands tremble as he reaches for the voice recorder. His jaw tightens as he presses play. Klaus Way’s voice pours through the devide, calm, commanding, and dripping with menace.
“Mighty Mighty, you’ve been chosen. Not as a man, but as the freak; the pillar of entertainment the Circus needs. But entertainment alone won’t cut it. You may dance now for fun, but you need to dance for us, for Arcadia, and never stop. Before Ajax brings you home at Red Snow, I need to know if you truly belong.”
Klaus’s voice hardens, laced with a cruel edge.
“Tonight, you’ll face me in Musical Statues At The Disco. This is your test, Mighty. Prove you’re ready to stand beneath the Circus’s banner. Or fall, and let us celebrate the truth: the Circus always gets its freaks.”
The voicemail ends. Mighty sets the recorder down, his knuckles clenched white as his battered frame trembles. His eyes blaze with defiance as the camera fades to black.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: This is it, Klaus Way is testing Mighty Mighty before Ajax finishes the job at Red Snow!
MATT RUBY: Test? This isn’t a test, Bronco. It’s Klaus wrapping up a done deal. Mighty’s fate is already sealed, and the Circus is about to claim its prize!
Opening Statements
A.P.D. Headquarters.
The courtroom.
MATT RUBY: I am so ready for this, BB. Justice is going to be served.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: We both know this is a kangaroo court, Ruby. Narcissa is misusing her power!
The judge sits at the bench, his gavel resting ominously. Narcissa Balenciaga stands with poise at the prosecutor’s table. Across from her, Jackson Cade sits next to George Cade, his jaw tight, his knuckles white against the edge of the table.
The gavel bangs once, silencing the room.
“The court is now in session,” the judge declares.
Narcissa rises first, stepping forward with deliberate grace. She casts a slow, almost predatory glance across the courtroom before speaking.
“Ladies and gentlemen,” she begins, “we are here to expose a man who hides behind the badge of justice. Sheriff Jackson Cade, a man sworn to protect, has instead wielded his power as a weapon—against his enemies, against his allies, and against the very principles he claims to uphold.”
The screen behind her lights up, displaying a frozen image of the assault on Gravedigger and Malakai Midnight. Narcissa gestures to it, her tone turning icy. “The evidence will show a pattern of abuse. Attacks on civilians disguised as law enforcement. Vendettas carried out under the guise of justice. And worst of all, lives lost—needlessly, carelessly—because of his recklessness.”
She leans closer to the judge, her voice dropping to a near whisper. “Today, we will hold him accountable. For every crime, every failure, every life he’s destroyed.”
She steps back, her smile returning as she takes her seat.
George Cade stands next. He places a firm hand on Jackson’s shoulder before addressing the court.
“My son isn’t perfect,” he begins. “He’s made mistakes. But tonight you’re going to see the lengths that people will go to in order to ruin his name. And when you see the full picture, you’ll understand that Jackson Cade isn’t a villain—he’s a survivor.”
He glances at Narcissa. “You’ll see that this case isn’t about justice. It’s about revenge.”
The room buzzes as George sits down, his face hard as stone. Narcissa smirks, but Jackson’s gaze is unyielding.
MATT RUBY: Little Eagle can’t even speak for himself, Bronc. He’s got to have daddy do it.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Actions speak louder than words.
MATT RUBY: We can agree on that.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Destructo Boy finds himself deep within a place he ought not to be fighting this Battle of the Bayou Bog.
MATT RUBY: What a bloody shithole. No wonder Calypso wants everyone to stay the fuck away.
Wading through knee deep mid and bogwater, Destructo Boy cautiously scans around for Calypso. Out of the water behind him, she appears, charging at him.
OFFERING! THE DOUBLE HANDED CROSS CHOP TO THE THROAT!
DESTRUCTO BOY IS STAGGERED!
CALYPSO GRANS HIM BY THE HEAD AND TRIES TO FORCE HIS FACE UNDER THE WATER!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Calypso doesn't take kindly to intruders, she's starting by trying to finish early.
Destructo Boy kicks her off and splashes away from his foe. Calypso comes after him but Destructo Boy is ready.
ENLIGHTENED SOUL!
THE SPINNING URANAGE PLANTS CALYPSO UNDERWATER!
BUT SHE RISES QUICKLY AND THE PAIR LOCK HORNS IN THE MUD!
MATT RUBY: Mud wrestling! Usually I see two hot chicks going at it, not one hot Black Magic woman and a little kid.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: You’re a sick bastard, Ruby.
Calypso elbows Destructo Boy in the head and he falls backwards into the water. She grabs him by the flailing wrist, pulling him back to his feet. Calypso jumps on his back.
HUMAN SACRIFICE!
STANDING DIAMOND DUST SPLASHES DESTRUCTO BOY INTO THE MUD!
SHE’S GOT HIM RIGHT WHERE SHE WANTS HIM!
Calypso grabs Destructo Boy by the back of the head, holding him under the water, drowning him.
The Kid flails about, beginning to fade… when Calypso stops.
She catches something out of the corner of her eye that makes her let go entirely.
DESTRUCTO BOY: Is that… Anton Savor? Creeping around Calypso’s garden?
MATT RUBY: He’s using the distraction of the match to gather more supplies. She warned him to stay away!
Savor looks over at Calypso, smirking and adding a little wave. Calypso turns her attention back to the fight at hand but Destructo Boy is already beginning to rise.
BLACK MAGIC MISSILE!
CALYPSO SHOOTS A BOLT OF FIRE RIGHT AT DESTRUCTO BOY!
HE CATCHES IT RIGHT IN THE FACE AND FALLS BACK INTO THE SLUDGE!
CALYPSO POUNCES, HOLDING HIS HEAD UNDER THE WATER AGAIN!
SLOWLY, HE FADES!
HIS FLAILING LIMBS GROW WEAK, ARMS HEAVY!
DESTRUCTO BOY IS OUT!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Calypso has drowned Destructo Boy in the Bayou Bogwater. He came into her territory and paid the price!
Testimony
The Courtroom, continued.
Deliberations have been going on for some time now, and Narcissa stands with the confidence of someone who knows the cards are stacked in her favor. Several clips follow:
She calls her next witness: an APD officer with a crisp uniform and a weary expression.
The officer shifts uncomfortably under the weight of the room’s attention. His voice is steady but tinged with regret. “When Jackson Cade first joined the APD, he was by the book. Followed the rules to the letter. But since he became Sheriff... it’s like something changed. He’s reckless. Uses the badge to settle scores. The power’s gone to his head.”
Narcissa presses further, her voice like silk. “Would you say his decisions have endangered lives?”
The officer hesitates before nodding. “Yes.”
Narcissa smiles, the kind that doesn’t reach her eyes. “No further questions.”
A quick shot of Jackson Cade, his jaw clenched so tightly it might shatter. George leans over, whispering something, but Jackson doesn’t respond.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Speak up for yourself, kid! What are you doing?
The second witness takes the stand: a grieving woman, the widow of the officer who died protecting Jackson against Tombstone. Her hands tremble as she clutches a tissue, her voice quivering with both sorrow and anger.
“My husband believed in Jackson Cade,” she says, her eyes glistening. “He trusted him. Took a bullet meant for him... and now my children don’t have a father.”
MATT RUBY: He’s a real bastard, isn’t he?
Narcissa’s tone turns somber, feigning compassion. “Do you believe Sheriff Cade’s actions led to your husband’s death?”
The widow’s gaze cuts through the courtroom, landing on Jackson. “Yes.”
Jackson’s face hardens. He doesn’t speak, doesn’t defend himself. Narcissa notices, her smirk returning as she turns to the judge.
“Your Honor, I believe we’ve heard enough to understand the pattern here.”
The judge nods, his expression unreadable. “We’ll take a recess before rendering a verdict.”
As the court adjourns, Narcissa’s glance toward Jackson dripping with triumph. But Cade doesn’t move.
MATT RUBY: This seems open and shut. Let’s send Jackson down to fill the cell his baby brother had in Death Row!
Where It All Began
Lutherian Locke stumbles into the heart of the Groves, exactly where he and Ayame met the first time. He's panting heavily as he takes a rest against a nearby tree, looking around for the Wolf.
"She said to meet her here," Locke says. "Hopefully I can keep it from coming out long enough for her to kill it."
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I'm surprised the Light Bringer was able to fight off the demon and bring himself to the Groves. Think Ayame will be able to exorcise whatever's possessing him?
MATT RUBY: Personally, I'm hoping that she'll get rid of this creep once and for all.
Right on cue, Wolf Fang emerges from the forestry behind Lutherian, getting his attention with a cough. He turns around to notice that she has no tools or holy relics in her possession, much to his confusion.
"I can kill demons like yours with my bare hands," She says, approaching Lutherian without fear. "I have no need for any holy items or weapons." Ayame then wordlessly instructs him to lie on the ground, which he slowly does.
"Please hurry," Locke begs, grabbing at his head. "I can feel it trying to control me again!" Ayame nods before standing over the Light Bringer, raising her dominant hand towards the sky. As she does so, her nails seemingly transform into claws before our very eyes.
She then attempts to thrust it into Locke's stomach, but he grabs her wrist, preventing her from getting the claws inside!
"You didn't think it was gonna be that easy, did you ya stupid bitch?" The demon side of Locke asks before pushing the Wolf away. She slams into a tree, causing her to slump to the ground. Before he can capitalize, he grabs his head again and runs off, allowing Wolf Fang to recover quickly.
"Red Snow it is then," She says to herself, rubbing the back of her head. "I'll get rid of the demon once and for all there."
Cut.
Zephyr
With most of the Arcadian Police Force involved with the courtroom hearing at Arcadia Police Department Headquarters, only a few officers remain patrolling the station. Klaus Way sits in an interrogation room, his feet casually rested on the metal desk before him.
An investigator walks in, pushing his feet off the table and taking a seat opposite him.
“Tell me about these bones, Mr. Way,” the Detective demands, opening a folder and reviewing the information. Klaus doesn’t say anything, reserving his right to silence. “Do you know who they belong to?”
Way shrugs his shoulders nonchalantly.
“It’s funny, you know, I heard you’re the kind of man who likes to talk and yet you’ve been here a week and said nothing,” he remarks with a stifled chuckle. “But those bones aren’t as quiet. They’ve spoken to us. Does the name Zephyr ring a bell?”
His nonchalant demeanour suddenly fades. He sits up, straightening himself. Something about that name has made the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Okay, that struck a chord. Klaus’ whole demeanour has changed, Matt.
MATT RUBY: You think he knows him? Maybe it’s just cold in there.
“Zephyr owned the Circus before you, did he not?” The Detective continues his questioning. This time Way’s face is no longer smiling. “In fact, I was led to believe that Michaela Attano was brought there to Zephyr by George Cade.”
“You seem to have all the information you need, Detective. Why am I here?” Klaus finally speaks. “I’m just a lowly Ringmaster, paid to delight and entertain the masses of Arcadia. Bones are not my speciality.”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: His façade is dropping. Look at him, he’s clearly rattled.
MATT RUBY: He’s not rattled. He’s just unfairly and unjustly under arrest and interrogation. There’s a huge difference.
“We’ve been investigating Zephyr and his practices. It turns out that…”
“Enough!” Klaus interrupts. “Are you going to charge me, Detective? Because if not, I believe I have a match to attend. I’m trying to recruit a dancing fool for my grand opening next year.”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: THAT’S why he’s trying to recruit Mighty?
MATT RUBY: A dancing fool is a slight understatement, wouldn’t you say? He’s an idiot.
The Detective closes the folder, taking a moment to think. “You’re not being charged yet, Mr. Way. But this investigation will continue in the background. It may be long and arduous, but I will find out what happened to Zephyr and the extent of your involvement.”
Klaus aggressively stands up. “Goodbye, Detective.”
Cut.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: We’ve got a fatal fourway coming up.
MATT RUBY: We can ditch the jabron’s, and I’ll have a threeway with Aurora and Narcissa!
Chaos erupts as the bell rings. Narcissa and Aurora rush at one another, exchanging rapid strikes. Anton Savor and The Burned Man collide with heavier blows.
Aurora sends Narcissa to the mat with a dropkick, but she’s quickly caught.
SPINNING BACK ELBOW FROM ANTON SAVOR!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: That wasn’t a full Flambe, but it may be enough.
The Burned Man capitalizes on Anton’s diversion.
JOHN WOO DROPKICK TO SAVOR!
BUT NARCY IS UP!
BICYCLE KNEE TO TBM!
MATT RUBY: Get him! You’re already taking down Jackson Cade tonight, finish off Rijen too!
The Designer lifts up TBM, but her eyes go wide!
METEORA FROM AURORA ON BOTH NARCISSA AND TBM!
THE SOLAR STORM!
Aurora revels in the crowd’s delight, but she may be celebrating too soon.
SUPERKICK!
CRÈME BRULEE FROM ANTON SAVOR!
Savor looks over his opponents, choosing to go for Narcissa.
LOW BLOW FROM THE QUEEN! SHE COLLAPSES BACK DOWN AFTER!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Everyone is down! Who is going to take command of this match!
MATT RUBY: I’ll take command of Aurora!
All four competitors slowly get up, each in their own corner. TBM and Savor rush at one another.
KICK! WHAM!
SPIN OUT POWERBOMB-NO!
SUPERKICK FROM SAVOR!
Narcissa and Aurora also rush at one another!
RIPCORD SPINNING HEEL KICK! THE REVOLUTION NAILS AURORA!
But it’s too late, the ref is counting down TBM.
ONE...
…
…
TWO...
…
…
THREE!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Anton Savor steals one here tonight!
MATT RUBY: The ref needs to know where their paycheck comes from!
Fire At Will
Just outside of the Church entrance, the Midnight Man stands in waiting alongside his Owls. Everyone except Malakai is armed to the teeth, eagerly awaiting the moment to charge in and attack.
"You know why you're here," Mr. Midnight begins. "You are to leave no survivors and leave a message for the Reverend. If he wants to target us after all that we've done for him, then we'll kill his Disciples and end his religion before it gains any further traction."
Hushed murmurs of agreement can be heard amongst Malakai's followers. All of which quickly quiet down as the Lord of Darkness heads away from the Church, leaving the Owls by themselves.
MATT RUBY: Where the bloody hell is Malakai going? This whole operation was his idea, so why is he abandoning his cult?
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Perhaps he's had a change of heart. Knowing him, however, I doubt that's the case.
"Where are you going, Mr. Midnight?" One of his lackeys whispers. Malakai turns around, smiling at the one who asked.
"I've been called in for a favor by Gravedigger. Before you arrived this week, he approached me and asked me if I could assist with something of urgent importance. I trust you'll be able to handle this matter while I'm away?"
The Owls nod as Mr. Midnight proceeds to take his leave. They then look at the one closest to the entrance and await for him to count down to the attack.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I can't watch.
MATT RUBY: Don't worry BB, I'll provide the commentary while you cower like a baby.
The appointed leader counts to three before swinging the doors open. The Owls proceed to rain down gunfire inside the Church. However, sounds of returning shots can be heard coming from within.
MATT RUBY: The Disciples of Christ are packing heat too!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Who in their right mind authorized Ezekiel to arm his followers?!?
This goes on for a while, with death cries and bodies hitting the floor. Violence as far as the eye can see fills the screen.
"STOP!" A voice from within the Church yells, causing the survivors of both cults to stand down.
MATT RUBY: It's the Reverend! Holy Zeus, is he holding what I think he's holding!?
We cut before we find out what Ruby's talking about.
Father Daughter
In Agora, Harold Attano finally sits opposite his daughter Michaela at a picnic table. He rests his arms on it whilst she covers herself with hers, nervous, and clearly anxious about being opposite her father.
“I’m sorry,” he blurts out, his face drawn with sadness and disgust. “I’ve been a terrible father, I know.”
Michaela doesn’t say anything.
“But you don’t have to stay with that monster, Michaela. Let me break you free and bring you home,” he asks sincerely.
She scoffs. “Home? I have no home, Harold. When George came to kill me on Zeus’ orders, I was lucky that Zephyr took me in. He was a good man. He gave me a job, training and a family. Ajax and Damien might not look like much to you, but I’ve known them since they were kids, just like me.”
Harold doesn’t understand. He looks extremely confused.
“You don’t get it, I know. When I arrived at the Circus, Ajax was a teenager and Damien was roughly my age. Their parents worked for Zephyr as performers. They weren’t freaks like we are now,” she admits shamefully. “But they’re still my brothers.”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: That name Zephyr keeps popping up, doesn’t it?
MATT RUBY: The former now deceased owner of Klaus Way’s Circus? Sure. But I’m not sure that matters.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I think it matters very much.
“What happened?” Attano begs to know. “How did Klaus Way get his claws into your Circus, Michaela?”
She looks to the side, a refusal to say apparent, though the memory of the truth clearly etched into the agony on her face.
“I’m going to save you from Klaus Way,” he declares. “I’m going to put a stop to his torment and horror. I’m going to end The Circus and bring you home.”
Upon hearing that, her agony immediately turns to anger. She aggressively stands up, backing away slightly.
“We won’t let you,” she says defiantly. “And if you make me choose between my family and the sperm donor who created me, you’re going to lose every single time, Harold.”
Damien Solus soon appears behind her, and together they walk into the crowd of Agora, leaving a white knuckled and furious Harold Attano behind.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: He came to save his daughter, but she doesn’t want saving. Harold, you need to let this go. She’s lost to Klaus Way and his manipulation.
MATT RUBY: She has a family now, BB. That’s not manipulation.
MATT RUBY: It's time for our musical statues at the disco match, a last man standing match right here at the disco! Bronco can take it from here as I'm taking as many chances as I can here at the club.
DING! DING!
Klaus Way charges at Mighty Mighty but the big man does a nice spin to get out of the way! Klaus Way was ready for that though and runs the wall! Moonsault off the wall! The big man stumbles but doesn't go down!
THAT'S NOT ENOUGH SO WAY RUNS AGAIN!
HE GOES FOR A CLOTHESLINE BUT MIGHTY MIGHTY LAUNCHES HIM WITH THE BACKDROP RELEASE!
HIGH AND MIGHTY!
KLAUS WAY CRASHES HARD!
Mighty Mighty is having a fever, a Saturday night fever, he dances and points his finger in the air and nails a massive elbow drop. Another one, another one, and another one!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Mighty Mighty might have just left a crater crater in Way's chest!
MIGHTY MIGHTY PULLS WAY UP AND PULLS HIM IN FOR A SWINGING ROCK BOTTOM
WAY COUNTERS WITH A JUMPING KNEE STRIKE!
FOR YOUR EYES ONLY!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Way is stayin’ alive out there!
Way has a knife and he throws it at the string holding up the disco ball! The ball falls and shatters on impact! Klaus smiles as he waits for Mighty to get up!
MIGHTY PULLS HIMSELF UP AND WAY GRABS THE ARMS FROM BEHIND!
HE TURNS AND RUNS THE WALL!
BIZARRO ON THE DISCO BALL SHARDS!
MIGHTY LOOKS LIKE HE’S OUT COLD!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: He's done it, Klaus will be singing I will survive tonight while it looks like Ruby will be singing I will sleep alone again!
Stage Three: Bargaining
He was told to meet him at the Gallery, and that’s where we are. CJ Thorpe has never frequented this place as much as he has over the past month, an unwanted guest with permission on all occasions.
After the beating he received last week, he’s banged up, bandaged and stitched, but exactly where his master told him to be.
There’s a screen setup in the middle of the room, a red standby light illuminating the darkness that surrounds it.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: That’s ominous, as usual. I really feel for this kid. He’s been put through hell ahead of Red Snow.
MATT RUBY: Nothing short of what he and his treacherous family deserve, if you ask me BB.
The screen suddenly flickers on, revealing Mary Cade. She’s strapped to a table with Jasper Redgrave stood over her. Her hand is missing fingers – those were delivered to Jackson and CJ many weeks ago, her hands covered in bandages to prevent blood loss.
She’s exhausted, pale and gasping weakly.
“Your mother is as tough as old boots,” Jasper says with a grimace. He picks up a small scalpel, placing it to her face. “A survivor, undoubtedly.”
Thorpe’s face is as white as a ghost. He drops to his knees, weeping.
“Don’t be so dramatic,” Redgrave says removing the scalpel and walking towards the camera. “This won’t hurt… much.”
“Please,” Thorpe begs. “Please don’t. I’ve done everything you’ve asked of me. I’ll do anything you want. Take me instead. Please.”
Jasper smiles. “Stage three; bargaining. You’re a quick study, Joey. I’m afraid there’s no bargain to be struck here. Next week at Red Snow, you’ll take your beating like a man and I’ll take your OSW World Championship from you. You need to accept that.”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: HE’S AN ANIMAL GOD DAMNIT!
MATT RUBY: I have no words.. for once. I’m speechless.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: SOMEBODY NEEDS TO PUT HIM DOWN!
Kneeling, helpless and weeping, CJ Thorpe’s head is lowered. He’s defeated. He’s been brutalized and mentally tortured, dealing with this entire situation alone.
“I’m not a monster,” The Artist says callously. “I promise, I’ll release your mother once you’ve paid the price but for now, you’ve not finished the five stages.”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Poor CJ Thorpe. No-one should have to go through this torture.
The screen cuts off.
CJ sobs.
Cut.
Bayou's Wrath
Anton Savor is busy in his kitchen, staff scurrying around, until one of his workers bursts into the scene, screaming bloody murder.
“Make it stop! Make it stop!”
He collapses on the ground at Savor’s feet, clutching at his face, covered in boils and burns.
MATT RUBY: What the hell was wrong with that guy?
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Somehow I think not a simple grease burn.
A second worker follows the first, bursting into the room.
“She’s coming! She’s -”
The words choke in his mouth as he falls to the ground, clutching his throat. His face reddens as he gasps for air.
The next instant, the kitchen is a flurry of mad panic. Savor grits his teeth and stands still.
Moments later, Calypso’s voice fills the air.
“You were warned to stay away, idyo.” Savor looks around, but the source of the voice cannot be found. “Their blood is on your hands, and yours will be next.”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I hate to say it, but Savor brought this on himself.
MATT RUBY: I love to say it. You don’t mess with a Black Magic woman!
Calypso bursts through the double kitchen doors, a voodoo doll outstretched in one hand that has her hand clasped around the throat.
She relinquishes her grasp on it, and the chef suffocating on the ground sucks in a deep breath before crying uncontrollably.
BLACK MAGIC MISSILE!
CALYPSO SHOOTS A BOLT OF FIRE THAT HITS HIM RIGHT IN THE FACE!
Turning her back to the screaming, she pulls a deck of cards and lays one on the bench between her and Savor.
“The fou, reversed. Your recklessness is your undoing.”
She lays a second card.
“Justice scales. For justice is a dish that must be served, mon chè.”
A third card.
“Death.”
The single word echoes around the kitchen. Savor backs away slowly, his face smirking… but there is fear in his eyes.
Calypso produces one more object. A voodoo doll, fashioned to look like Savor himself, still with a stab mark in the leg.
“Now, you will face the bayou’s wrath.”
But Savor moves quickly. He grabs the doll from her grasp, and runs for his life
Calypso smiles as she watches him run, slowly gliding across the kitchen after him.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: There is nowhere Savor can run that Calypso cannot find him. At Red Snow, this all comes to a head. Can Savor survive the night?
Cut.
Sing Song
Gemini sits by a log fire in The Groves, preparing to journey for her match later tonight. As she tapes her hands, there’s a knock at the door.
Reluctantly she rises to answer, revealing El Mariachi Muerte and his guitar. She’s about to tell him to leave when he plays a single chord, mesmerizing her.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: What has that son of a bitch just done!?
MATT RUBY: Forget that! What could he do!?
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: You’re sick, Matt!
He backs her into the room, forcing her down into a seat. Her eyes are glazed, focused only on Muerte as he begins strumming his chords.
The air fills with the sound of music.
“Tell me a story of the world that was, of what you remember,
Just because.
Tell me a story of the things you’ve seen,
Tell me a story of where you’ve been.”
Something happens. Gemini’s eyes open wide, as if the music has deeply affected her soul. The Mariachi continues strumming away on his guitar as she speaks.
“I remember everything,” she says with a stammer and stutter. “Oh my Gosh. All those people…”
Tears immediately fill her eyes. The Mariachi carefully comes to a stop, the music fading away in the air.
“I’m sorry amiga,” he says earnestly, dread in his heart and pain in his eyes. “I didn’t want to make you remember. I sung you this song after Ring of Dreams to ensure you forgot. That perro Zeus was going to kill you unless I did something.”
She looks astonished. Her face is pale, her palms are sweaty. “I killed all those people in the Red Light District. I’m a murderer.”
“None of that was your fault, bebé. You had two halves. It was a prophecy passed onto us by our parents,” he reminds her – knowledge that she has, conveniently forgotten in favor of self-pity and reflection. “Once you’d fulfilled your role, you became you again. That’s who I fell in love with, cariño.”
Gemini stands up, pacing the room. The death of those people weighs on her heavily. The song he sung her earlier this year had relieved her of the pain and its suddenly come flooding back.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: You can feel the emotion.
MATT RUBY: She’s distraught.
“I don’t want to fight, but tonight and at Red Snow, we have no choice. Zeus wants us dead for what we know, for what you now know, but we’re both culpable in the reality of what’s occurred and the secret being held back from Arcadia,” Muerte continues, rising himself. “I only hope that your demise is not by my hand and that mine is not by yours. After Vida, I don’t think I could take it.”
He walks towards the door and exits, leaving Gemini to drop to her knees near the fire, crying with passion.
Cut.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Two titans stand next to what could be their last resting place! Can Graves bring himself salvation, or will Tombstone ferry his soul to the grave?
The match begins and Graves immediately slams into Tombstone with a bone rattling big boot! The Ferryman stumbles back but fires back with a right hand that nearly floors Graves! Both men trade blows back and forth when Tombstone gets the upper hand!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: ODE TO CHARON! JACKKNIFE POWERBOMB!
MATT RUBY: GRAVES SLAMS THE DIRT MOUND!
Tombstone grabs the Harbinger by his face, trying to throw him into the grave when Ezekiel frees himself with a massive haymaker! He headbutts Tombstone and sends him reeling before grabbing the shovel!
SHOVEL TO THE SKULL ROCKS TOMBSTONE!
The Ferryman is left dazed and Graves powers him up into the air!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: PURGATORY PLUNGE! GRAVES WITH HIS OWN POWERBOMB SENDS TOMBSTONE BACK FIRST ACROSS THE HEADSTONE!
MATT RUBY: THE ATTANO SPECIAL!
Tombstone lands in a heap and Graves reaches down, forcing Tombstone back to his feet-
GRAVES GETS A HAND WRAPPED AROUND HIS THROAT!
Ezekiel reaches out but Tombstone grabs his hand, wrenching it away in a show of pure strength! Graves tries to fight free but Tombstone lifts him high into the air!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS! CHOKESLAM! MASSIVE FUCKING CHOKESLAM INTO THE GRAVE!
MATT RUBY: Tombstone started shoveling in dirt! This match is over!
Graves has just been buried alive!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Graves was powerful, he was determined, but at the end of the day no one outruns the reaper. Your winner is, The Ferryman, Tombstone.
The Raid
Recorded Post Vendetta
The Corporation is a surprisingly large building – a couple of floors at least. By Arcadian standards, it’s a tower, a fortress. Security stand guard outside, wearing black uniforms and baseball caps, and using batons for protection.
Suddenly, a sea of painted men descends upon them.
The Juggalo’s attack viciously, beating the holy shit out of any guard in sight. Through the crowd walk Chainsaw Charlie, The Burning Man and Destructo Boy – an alliance struck.
They enter through the lobby, Charlie dispatching a guard that charges at him with a right hand. Another two charge towards Burning Justice who likewise take care of business. The Burning Man tosses one over the reception counter whilst Destructo Boy hit another with a thunderous Superman Punch.
Just then, a large screen in the lobby flickers. Upon it, Doom and Nox stand alongside a tied up Hatchet.
“You never learn, do you?” Doom says callously. “Do you know what the definition of insanity is, gentlemen?”
“It’s doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results,” Nox replies.
Nox pulls a cannister out of his uniform and puts it before the nose of Hatchet, waiting for a moment.
“Don’t you fuckin’ do it!” Charlie screams out, demanding they stop.
Doom cackles. “Don’t be afraid, my painted friend. We have no intention of killing this man. That’d be shortsighted and somewhat foolish, don’t you think? Neglecting the fact that there’s easily a hundred Juggalo’s outside our doors, we’ve a grandiose purpose for Hatchet.”
“This man is a KILLING MACHINE,” Nox continues with a growl. “But his attention is unfortunately targeted in the wrong direction. You wish to fight us, Burning Justice, but first…”
Nox presses a button on the cannister, releasing a plume of yellow gas directly towards the nostrils of Hatchet. The Juggalo coughs and splutters, shaking his head furiously.
“What’re you doing to him!?” Destructo Boy demands to know.
Suddenly though, Nox and Doom step backwards, removing the restraints. Hatchet’s head rises carefully with a sinister grimace.
His eyes… yellow.
“But first…” Doom continues where Nox left off. “Hatchet; kill.”
With a sinister smile on his face, Hatchet rises, his eyes yellow and his focus now turned elsewhere.
It’s no longer on Doom or Nox but Burning Justice and The Gathering.
To be continued…
Somewhere Clean
MATT RUBY: The ACA HQ. AKA, the place where fun goes to die.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I don't know, Ruby. A few hours with them might do you good.
Inside of the pristine office do we find Mr. Kleen. The head of the ACA leans back in his chair, watching as the office door slowly opens to reveal Captain Arcadia. The hero walks in with a surprising politeness as he approaches Kleen's desk. He places his shield on the desk, staring the custodian in his eyes.
"Explain," Arcadia says with a frown. "Just who the hell is Sunshine?"
Kleen tilts his head to the side, giving a small sigh. "A friend of mine... From another time in my life."
There's a silence, Arcadia shaking his head. "I know that. This file, Sunshine himself? I know full well how close you two were. So let me ask you a better question... Is Mr. Sunshine the Zookeeper? Don't you bullshit me, Kleen."
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: The Zookeeper? Sunshine?
MATT RUBY: That nitwit is definitely strange enough to be the Zookeeper, I'll give him that.
"Well," Kleen begins. "Mister Sunshine is a strange, and unwell individual. As kind as he is dangerous, a man who I've known all my life and have still yet to fully figure out." He looks off, breaking eye contact.
"You didn't answer my question," Arcadia shoots back. He slams his shield on the desk, knocking over a cup of pens!
"I did," Kleen replies as he quickly cleans up the mess Cap made. "It just isn't the answer you were looking for. All you need to know... Is Sunshine is not a man you should trifle with. Don't let his smile fool you. I tell you this out of kindness, Captain."
There's a pause, both former Pythons sitting in silence for a moment before Arcadia gives a nod.
"Thank you for your time, Mr. Kleen."
Arcadia turns to leave, having more questions than answers.
Cut.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Tonight, tag team partners collide as Gravedigger battles Malakai Midnight in a falls count anywhere Hardcore Match!
MATT RUBY: Cole Holt’s drawn officiating responsibilities and I don’t see how he could screw this up. There are no rules, and all he’s here for is to count the fall or acknowledge a submission.
Holt calls for the bell, and we clearly see that Gravedigger and Midnight haven’t come unarmed. The Mortuary Assistance is carrying the shovel from last week, and the Lord of Darkness is holding a chair.
Gravedigger lunges out his corner, literally Shovel Ready!
SHOVEL TO THE FUCKING SKULL OF MIDNIGHT...
NO!
CHAIR TO THE RIBS OF GRAVEDIGGER, DROPPING HIM TO A KNEE, SUCKING WIND!
*KLANG!*
AND HE FOLLOWS IT UP THROWING THE CHAIR OFF THE MOTRUARY ASSISTANCE’S HEAD!
Gravedigger collapses rolling out of the and onto the floor as Midnight plays to the crowd before following The Shovel.
*BAM!*
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Gravedigger managed to wrap his fist in a steel chain and deck Midnight as he stepped through the ropes!
Gravedigger wraps the chain around his knee before pulling Midnight through the ropes and onto his shoulders!
GTS!
CRADLE TO THE FUCKING GRAVE DRIVING THE CHAIN INTO THE TEMPLE OF MIDNIGHT!
GRAVEDIGGER INTO THE COVER AND COLE HOLT IS THERE ON THE ARENA FLOOR!
ONE!
...
...
TWO!
...
...
THREE!
MATT RUBY: Well, that’s one way to turn the lights out for Midnight!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: There was no weak link in that Chain!
The Verdict
The Courtroom.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Jackson Cade is soon to be in action here tonight, but they’ve returned to the courtroom for this: the verdict. Jackson will have to make a hasty retreat to the ring... if he can.
MATT RUBY: Not if Justice prevails!
The murmurs from spectators die down as the judge returns to his bench, his face stern and unreadable. Narcissa is poised and victorious, her lips curved in a smug smile as the judge picks up the verdict. The air feels electric as he clears his throat.
“This court has considered the evidence presented—”
“Your Honor,” Jackson interrupts, standing abruptly.
MATT RUBY: Hold him in contempt!
The entire room freezes as all eyes snap to him. “Before you read that, I have something to say.”
The judge looks at Jackson with a mix of irritation and curiosity. “Proceed.”
Cade steps forward.
“Everything I’ve done as Sheriff, I’ve done for Arcadia. Not for power, not for revenge—for survival. You’ve heard a parade of people pointing fingers, but none of them are willing to admit the truth. Arcadia doesn’t play fair. It’s a cesspool, and if you don’t fight dirty, you don’t survive. I did what I had to do, because no one else had the guts to.”
The courtroom buzzes, but Jackson isn’t finished. He turns to Narcissa, his eyes locking with hers. “You’ve spent this entire trial trying to tear me down, Narcissa, to show Arcadia how bad I really am. And you’re good at what you do. But you forget one thing—I’m not a man who breaks easy.”
George slides a piece of paper toward him, and Jackson picks it up, holding it aloft.
“There’s an old statute in Arcadian law,” he announces. “If one person files suit against another, their grievances can be settled in combat. I’m invoking it. At Red Snow, it’ll be you and me, Narcissa. One-on-one. And I’ll let you see just how bad I am.”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: That’a boy! I knew they had a plan!
MATT RUBY: This is ridiculous!
Narcissa’s face twists in rage, her composure cracking as she screeches at the judge. “This is absurd! He can’t—”
The judge bangs his gavel, struggling to restore order, but Jackson doesn’t stay to hear the protests. He and George storm out of the courtroom, Narcissa’s shrill cries following them, her fury filling the air as the screen fades to black.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: It’s confirmed by Scott Sterling! It’ll be Narcissa verses Cade at Red Snow!
MATT RUBY: Where’s the justice now!?
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I'm not sure it matters. I'm not sure it ever did and folks, Jackson Cade better hurry back to Olympus because after the break, his trios match is next!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: We have a huge trios matchup here tonight as the team of Jasper Redgrave, DOOM and EMM face off against Jackson Cade, Harold Attano and Gemini. Cade has barely made it back in time, folks.
MATT RUBY: It's a great night here BB, not only do I get to see one of my favorite dames in action but our soon to be former sheriff's going to get his ass kicked before he gets his life kicked later on.
The bell sounds as Jackson Cade starts off with Jasper Redgrave. Cade rushes forward from the bell, leaping at Redgrave as he tries for an almighty Breach and Clear Slingblade, but Redgrave manages to dodge it, nailing Jackson with a huge elbow to the back of the head before lifting Cade up into a suplex.
PORTRAIT OF A KILLER! Redgrave plants Cade into the mat with a sickening side slam, but he doesn't even bother to cover, instead backing up and tagging in DOOM.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Perseus has not had a good night tonight, the trial is not in his favor and this match is not either as DOOM looks to possibly break his skull.
DOOM rushes forward, looking for the punt kick but Jackson just avoids it, taking the Corporate Scientist down with a sudden DDT before rolling to his feet and tagging in Harold Attano. Attano rushes in like a house on fire, pounding down on DOOM who tries to fight back with a headbutt before lifting Attano up onto his shoulders, Attano drops down though and leaps as DOOM turns around
ONE SHOT ONE KILL! DIAMOND CUTTTAHHH! DOOM gets dropped, rolling out of the ring as Redgrave rushes into the ring. Attano ducking a clothesline
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: OSOK! Attano drops another as Nobody is on fire tonight.
Redgrave rolls out of the ring, as Attano turns around,
MALICIOUS SONATA! SPRINGBOARD STUNNNNER!
EMM explodes into the ring, taking down Attano but as he's stunned to the mat, Gemini reaches over and tags herself in.
MATT RUBY: Lovers explode her tonight BB. Come on babe, drop that face painted dweeb once and for all so you can get with a real man.
EMM and Gemini stare at one another for a moment, EMM hesitant to attack as Gemini gets in his face, daring him to hit her. Gemini paintbrushes him back, EMM trying to keep his cool but as he turns around, he gets superkicked right in the jaw.
EMM is stunned as Gemini rushes to the ropes, bouncing off the ropes as she grabs EMM's head,
THE CUR...NO! EMM stops her mid-leap, swinging her around and down IN THE END! MODIFIED HALF NELSON DRIVER!
That has to be it as EMM reluctantly covers, Demi Sky counting down the fall
ONE
..............
TWO
.............
.................
THREE!!!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: EMM picks up the big victory for his team but have we seen a preview of what's to come at Red Snow or will the others be able to recouperate before the biggest night of their careers?
Bachelor Party
Aurora's home. We find the Thrillseeker herself rapidly packing a bag with clothing, checking over her shoulder constantly.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Run, Aurora, run! Pack those bags and hide!
MATT RUBY: Hide where, Bronco? Arcadia's a big place, but there's only so far she can go.
Zipping the bag shut she rushes towards the front door, finding herself coming to a stop in her living room. Her eyes filling with dread as she sees three uninvited visitors sitting in wait. Gravedigger, Malakai Midnight, and Tombstone. "No..."
"Yes," says Gravedigger. He looks to Aurora, a look of pure displeasure on his face. "I spent so long making sure your party was perfect, dear. I just wanted you to have a wonderful time, to be happy..."
"He even put his own celebration on hold when Calypso let him know you left," says Midnight. "Now his party has been spent hunting you down."
Tombstone leans forwards in his chair, hands laced together. "He's doing what's only right. When you see something that's yours... A purpose. You take it, you never let it go."
"I-" Aurora begins, backing away. "I'm not going with you. You can't fucking take me with you."
"Oh," Gravedigger begins, rising from his chair. He grabs a glass from the table as he approaches Aurora. "You can't run from fate, Aurora. We were destined to be together. And I should be so angry, but I want to give you one last chance before our big day. Come willingly... Or by force. The choice is yours."
He raises the glass towards her, shaking it.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: This is terrifying, Ruby. Aurora has no way out!
MATT RUBY: I think she knows that too, BB. She's letting him bring the glass to her lips!
"Okay," she says, sipping from the drink in Gravedigger's hand.
"You've run so much," he says. "But remember, my love... Is inescapable."
Aurora goes to speak back, but her eyes slowly begin to shut as she falls unwilling forwards into Gravedigger's embrace. He smiles, turning towards Midnight and Tombstone.
"Our wedding... Will be the best day of my life."
Cut.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: We have a mammoth main event here tonight as the Corporate Chemist takes on our OSW World Champion CJ Thorpe in a non-title match and a hell of a non-title match at that. A Hell in a Cell match. And you remember what happened in the last Hell in a Cell match Ruby.
MATT RUBY: Do I ever BB. Tombstone very nearly murdered Felix Foley and the idiot kept seeing puppets everywhere for weeks. With any luck, our savior Nox will do the same to Thorpe so we can have a respectable world champion at Red Snow.
Cole Hot calls for the bell as Thorpe rushes forward immediately, double legging Nox before lifting him up and powering him forward hard back first into the turnbuckles. Nox lands hard as Thorpe unleashes shoulder after shoulder into the midsection before floating around and planting the Chemist into the mat with a beautiful spinebuster.
Thorpe doesn't cover though, as he grabs the arms of the stunned Nox and begins to stomp the shit out of him
BRUTE
FORCE
ENTRY!
STOMP!
STOMP!
STOMP!
STOMP!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: CJ Thorpe is absolutely nettled here tonight and can you blame him after this past month? He's clearly needing someone to take his anger out and if anyone deserves to get a beatdown, it's Nox.
MATT RUBY: How can you say that BB? Our gracious Pantheon member has just been doing what's best for business and just because the world champion couldn't protect his own mother doesn't mean he deserves an ass kicking.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: No but the thousand of other atrocities Nox has committed certainly does.
CJ Thorpe kicks seven shades of shit out of Nox, leaving him stunned and hurting before finally letting go. He backs up as Nox slowly staggers to his feet, using the ropes to pull himself up but he's not there long.
AS THORPE CLOTHESLINES HIM OVER THE ROPES TO THE FLOOR BELOW!
Nox topples to the concrete but Thorpe is immediately out as well, lifting him up off the floor into a bearhug of sorts before rushing forward
SPINE FIRST INTO THE UNFORGIVING STEEL! Nox slams spine first into the cell walls not once, not twice but over and over as Thorpe slams him back first into the wire trying damn near to break it. One final slam sends a wave of agony through Nox before Thorpe tries to deliver another spinebuster.
NOX COUNTERS WITH A DDT OUT OF NOWHERE, DRIVING THORPE SKULL FIRST INTO THE CONCRETE!
MATT RUBY: HA! That's what you get Thorpe. Come on Noxy, beat his ass.
Nox staggers to his feet, trying to get away but Thorpe is almost immediately on his feet. The World champ shakes the cobwebs away before rushing at Nox
DROP TOE HOLD ONTO THE STEEL STEPS! Nox again counters Thorpe but he can barely get away before Thorpe clasps his leg. Nox kicks Thorpe in the face hard, slipping out before rolling back into the ring and climbing up to the top.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Nox going up top here in an almost desperation move, CJ Thorpe is a man possessed here tonight so desperation may well be the right move here.
Nox dives off but Thorpe catches him mid-leap, hoisting him up high before rushing forward
POWERBOMB INTO THE CELL WALL!
Thorpe delivers a second and then a third, trying to drive the Chemist through the cell to the outside but a desperation eye poke manages to allow Nox to slip out. Thorpe swings wild, Nox dodging before spinning Thorpe around.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: PARALYTIC PLEX! SNAP DRAGON INTO THE CELL BREAKS THE DAMN WALL!
MATT RUBY: Oh no, don't tell me they're going to do what I think they are BB.
The Cell has been opened up as Nox is hurting but smiling as he thinks he's gotten Thorpe beat. The smile quickly fades to panic as CJ sits up, fury in his eyes. Scrambling to his feet, Nox begins to quickly climb up the cell to get away from the seemingly unstoppable champion who is quick on his heels. Nox gets to the top, getting to his feet as he tries to stomp down on Thorpe as he gets up top.
Thorpe catches the foot though, swinging Nox backwards before climbing up himself.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: What the hell are those two thinking? They saw what happened last time, they could end their own careers with a single move up there.
The World Champ slowly stalks the Corporate Chemist, who's backing off on his knees not wanting anything to do with Thorpe right now. Thorpe rears down, trying to pull Nox up but Nox just smiles
UPPERCUT TO THE BALLS DOUBLES THORPE OVER! It leaves him in perfect position
FOR THE POISON MISTER! CLOUD OF POISON MIST STRIKES THORPE RIGHT BETWEEN THE EYES!
CJ is hurt and blinded, struggling for the first time in this match as he's grabbed and lifted up high by Nox
CHEMICAL REACTION! FISHERMAN'S BRAINBUSTER INTO THE CELL!
MATT RUBY: ZEUS IN CHRIST! That very well could have broken the cell again!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Thank god they reinforced the cell this time Ruby or we could have had another serious injury here thanks to this demonic structure.
Nox proves the reinforcement, delivering a second and then a third Brainbuster before getting to his feet as he slices his finger across his throat, calling for the end as he kicks Thorpe over and grabs his arms, looking for the ODC.
Thorpe fights out though, refusing to let Nox lock in the arms as he manages to slip out, giving Nox an uppercut to the balls of his own as he does. Nox is on his knees, holding the boys in pain as Thorpe rolls to his feet, finally able to see as he rushes forward,
TRUST! Running knee nails Nox hard in the temple but Thorpe doesn't let him fall. Instead grabbing him and double underhooking him.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: THE RIGHT THING! PEDIGREE ONTO THE TOP OF THE CELL! Mercifully it doesn't break but Thorpe doesn't cover.
CJ instead floats over, locking in Police Brutality onto the unconcious Nox. He wrenches back on the Rings, Cole Holt clearly seeing Nox is unconcious as he quickly calls for the bell.
MATT RUBY: Sickening victory there from our world champion, Nox was clearly out and he continued the punishment.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: CJ Thorpe was in a different zone here tonight, the man has been pushed beyond his limits these last few weeks and he took it all out on Nox.
MATT RUBY: Well I for one hope our Killer King proves why he's a much better fit for world champion and does the same to Thorpe next week.
Stage Four: Depression
Nox may have paid for Doom’s assault last week, but there’s no consoling or congratulating CJ Thorpe. The OSW World Champion now sits on the canvas as Nox is being helped from the ring, his World Championship led on the canvas before him.
The fans chant his name.
“CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE!”
But he hears nothing. In his head is something else. The entire crowd have been drowned out. As far as he knows, they don’t even exist.
His heart is heavy. It aches.
If a human being has a soul, there are times when you know it. There are moments when you can feel it within you, a dull brutal ache that won’t go away. A thirst of pain that can’t be quenched.
Every breath, every moment, every single second that passes has been doused by an unreasonable and unrelenting pain. That paint isn’t physical. There’s no receptors or nerves tingling that cause it. There’re no painkillers for it. It won’t ease or go away.
It’s not pain as you think you know it, yet it remains familiar all the same. It’s not like a cut that stings or becomes infected and sore. It’s nothing like that. It’s a deepness confined to the within that has no way of escape, no way of breaking free. It’s trapped and so are you. You’re linked inexplicably together, as if married to the feeling.
If he could never move, he never would. If he could resist the function of breathing, he would.
His mind is a melody of sombre notes, playing repeatedly. There’s nothing to interrupt the monotony of the noise in his mind. The good memories mean nothing. The good times mean less. There’s no thought or reason, no remembrance of fun or happiness.
They no longer exist.
“CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE!”
“CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE!”
“CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE!”
Snap out of it, they say. Think good thoughts. Hear those around you that love you. Listen. Talk. Reason should work, shouldn’t it? It doesn’t. But in the end, that demon of darkness and pain inside you, that same familiar one that refuses to relent, that refuses to capitulate or cease, that refuses to quit…
… fades away.
“CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE!”
“CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE!”
“CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE!”
And when it does, it gives rise to you.
It gives rise to the person within held back by the pain. It gives rise to the remembrance of the person you are. These moments can be brief. They can be frequent. But if and when they occur, if you are fortunate enough to have them…
And you are fortunate enough to rise from the mire and the muck of that pain…
“CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE!”
You can hear them all.
And when you can hear them all, all those voices that care, all those people that have your back through thick and thin…
Only then…
Will the body rise like the mind.
“CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE!”
CJ Thorpe looks up, his eyes filled with tears, but not only that. There’s heart in those eyes. There’s a warrior. There’s a fucking monster.
For now, stage four is over.
And CJ Thorpe gets back to his feet, sweeping his Championship off the canvas and looking at the crowd chanting his name.
“CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE! CJ THORPE!”
Cut.
Static.
A Stop ■ symbol appears in the bottom right hand corner of the screen as we fade to black.