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WARZONE #373

War Of The Roses

In the first Warzone back after Red Snow, Jackson Cade is lured into a Main Event versus the man who killed his brother. Is it a trap to force a casuality of the Uprising?

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The Already Dead


Click.

Static covers the screen as a Play symbol appears in the bottom right-hand corner as fuzzy footage appears on the screen.

The sound of waves crashing against a swaying boat echo throughout a darkened night upon the River Styx. Gravedigger sits at the head of a boat, roaring passionately across the black sea. Tombstone awakens wearily, his head pounding.

You… He mutters in shock, touching his head in search for blood. His head aches from the lethal blow delivered to him by Gravedigger at Red Snow.

“Is this whereby you bargain with me, Ezra?” Gravedigger callously asks, as if their friendship meant nothing to him.

Tombstone shakes his head. “There won’t be any bargaining, kid.”

The use of the word kid stops The Shovel, who screws up his face in disgust.

“Don’t stop rowing,” he’s warned. “The dead don’t wait.”

Gravedigger surprisingly nods in agreement and continues his efforts across the black sea.

“I should’ve seen this coming, but Igor Mortis was right. I became distracted. You ferried Malakai Midnight and Calypso without my permission, and I didn’t even realize,” the former ferryman laments.

Slowly but surely, they approach the shore – Tombstone’s final destination. They both disembark into the water, Gravedigger pulling his boat ashore as Ezra looks on at the gates before him.

“Do you know why I did what I did?” The Shovel asks him whilst slamming the boat down in the sandy dirt. “You were given a gift that you always believed to be a curse. You lamented and wasted it, Ezra. You took me in from the streets and gave me a home but treated me like a slave. I dug the graves so that you could achieve fanciful things and chase enemies that had no meaning.”

Tombstone’s frown turns into a slight chuckle. He nods though. He agrees. “Well, the job is yours now, Ferryman.”

He slowly trundles up the sandy dirt like beach towards a large set of gates that carefully and slowly open with a red light peering through the other side. Gravedigger calls out to him, shouting. “Aren’t you afraid!?”

The Already Dead don’t die, son,” Tombstone warns him, not breaking his stride. “I’ll see you when you get here.”

The Already Dead walks through the gates, and they close behind him, leaving Gravedigger to snarl in disappointment.

Cut.

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Mara


Stories from the Civil War. 

Agora, despite the threat of war, remains a hustle and bustle of daily life in Arcadia. Merchants need to make a living. Citizens need the essentials. As men, women and children walk the stalls, chattering amongst themselves, our attention turns to a young girl.

She’s wearing a bright red hooded cloak, covering a blue dress. In her hand, a little wooden basket resides, full of various fruits that she’s purchased along the walk.

“Mara,” one of the stall owners greets her cheerfully. “Where’s your momma, little one?”

“She’s not feeling too well, Mister Chance,” she replies bashfully. Her dainty frame paling in comparison to his large and burley one.

“Send her my best, won’t you?” He asks to an agreeable nod and cute smile.

Mara continues her walk, looking at items with great interest.

RAP RAP RAP!

RATTA TAT TAT!

Gunfire suddenly echoes from behind her.

Within moments, the cheerful demeanour of those in the market switches to pure panic. People begin darting in every which direction, rushing away from the sounds of gunfire that seems to be drawing ever closer.

Mara is so quaint that she barely has time to move before the rushing crowd take her to the ground. She tries to cover up, but those running trample her, squashing her beneath their heaving and desperate feet.

Her screams are drowned out by gunfire. She’s helpless. A victim.

Until a hand reaches down through the mire, pushing people aside. She reaches for it, grasping hold.

From near death to salvation, Mara is pulled from the ground and into the arms of a boy – no, a man. Destructo. His arm, shoulder and neck are sporting terrible burns, but his facial hair shows a change. His eyes aren’t hopeful; they’ve seen things.

“Come on,” he beckons gruffly. “Let’s get you out of here.”

And together, they escape Agora.

Cut.

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BRONCO BLACKWOOD: We have a debuting Arcadian here tonight folks as the Concierge of Crime makes his long awaited Olympus debut. But will he be able to gain victory over a hungry competitor like the Wolf?

MATT RUBY: Last time we saw her she murdered a guy but if rumours are true, Red ain't no shrinking violet either. 

The bell sounds as Ayame rushes in, taking Red by surprise with a big running enziguri to the back of the head, dropping him down to his knees. She immediately rushes to the ropes, leaping up to the top rope before diving off

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: HEAVEN'S HOWL! Beautiful Diving knees wipe out Red and this could allready be over here.

Ayame doesn't cover, sizing up Red as he staggers into the corner. Sprinting forward right into a boot to the chin, Ayame staggers back as Red grabs her

RED-EMPTION! Beautiful Spinebuster nearly plants Ayame through the mat but Red isn't done as he peels Ayame up off the mat, underhooking both arms as he begins to tee off with knee after knee before a big one sends her staggering back.

Ayame stumbles forward right into a flurry of lefts, hooks, uppercuts. Red throwing everything at her but as he drags her in for a headbutt, she manages to slip underneath, rocking him with a hard elbow to the back of the head.

MATT RUBY: TAIL STRIKE! Lucky bastard Red getting that glorious ass to the face. 

Red is stunned by the Hip Attack, dropping down to one knee as Ayame rolls backwards, rushing forward

CRESCENT MOON KICK! The Scorpion hits flush, Ayame dropping down onto the downed Red as Cole Holt slides in to count,

ONE

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TWO

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THREE!!!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Wolf Fang picking up a big victory over the debuting Red but the Concierge looked very impressive in his first outing.

MATT RUBY: Gotta be a lot better then very impressive Ruby, Even if half the stories on Red are true, he's going to have to prove them against the very best in any world here.  


WINNER: WOLF FANG AYAME
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The Wild Card I


George Cade sits in the office that used to belong to The Red Hood quite some time ago. It hasn’t been upgraded – in fact, it looks worse. He’s pouring over a map of Arcadia, moving figures around on a board in discussion with Jackson, when Harold Attano walks in.

“You wanted to see me?” Nobody asks, hands on hips, unamused at being summoned by a Cade. Their history is deep.

“Word has filtered through that you’ll be fighting Jasper Redgrave and Klaus Way at Thunderstrike for the OSW World Heavyweight Championship,” George says sternly, much to Attano’s surprise. “We figure its a plot to drive dissension in our ranks.”

MATT RUBY: That's a little paranoid, isn't it? Perhaps Zeus thought that the cockroach had earned an opportunity?

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: What, out of the goodness of his heart?

Cade looks at his son, who folds his arms.

“Has it?” Harold asks of the younger Cade, who shakes his head.

“We can’t afford for it to,” he admits, earnest, honest and mature. “Zeus thinks my thirst for revenge will outweigh our efforts in the war. He expects us to fight over who gets Redgrave and the World Title first.”

Nobody sighs deeply. “Look kid, I don’t want it – you know that. I liked your brother and the thing I want to see more than anything is you putting Redgrave in a box.”

Jackson walks across the room and places a hand on his shoulder, nodding with comfort. “Thank you, but for now it’s about you making him suffer first. The problem we foresee is the wild card and Klaus Way could be a prominent figure in this war.”

The mention of his name sends shivers down Attano’s spine. Nobody backs away from the hand, shrugging it off carefully but with firmness.

MATT RUBY: Is he really asking Harold Attano to swallow his pride and make friends with Klaus Way? That's hilarious.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: It's a big ask, that's for certain.

“Attano,” George comes alive with a firmness of his own. “If Klaus Way wants to join The Seekers, then we need him on side. I know how you feel about him and believe me…”

“You don’t know a damn thing!” Nobody angrily blurts out, stopping George mid-sentence. Jackson looks at his dad and signals with his head that he’s going to leave, making a hasty exit as the two old friends clash. “You put my daughter with that freak and look what’s happened!”

“That’s not it at all,” George assures him. “Look, I put her with someone I trusted. I wasn’t to know what could happen. Hell, to this day, I don’t even know what did. All I know is that Klaus Way could be the decider in you bringing the World Championship back to The Seekers. You need to find a way to bury your hatred for the greater good.”

Harold huffs, slamming his hand down on the table in acknowledgement of the truth.

Cut.

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BRONCO BLACKWOOD: The Enigma known only as The Night debuts tonight, and I’ve heard he doesn’t care what happens to himself or his opponent.

MATT RUBY: Unfortunately for him, BB, Mighty Mighty is more than just an opponent, he’s a damn mountain.

The bell rings and The Night explodes out of his corner, recklessly leaping at the big man.

But Mighty barely stumbles back.

The Night hits the ropes again, rushing in…

NIGHT CAP! LEAPING SHOULDER TACKLE KNOCKS MIGHTY MIGHTY INTO THE ROPES!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: That’s impressive.

MATT RUBY: How impressive is it if it hurts him worse than his opponent?

The Night goes for another charge, but Mighty roars out at him.

MIGHTY CAROUSELL-NO!

THE NIGHT FLIPS AROUND THE HOLD!

Night springboards off the ropes—NIGHT AND DAY!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: The Night’s throwing everything at Mighty Mighty, but the big man just won’t fall!

Mighty Mighty is pissed off, rushing at The Night, who’s crawled into the corner.

CANNON BALL! RUNNING CORNER FLIP SPLASH!

The Night is hurting here, but the big Chunk of Funk doesn’t give a damn. He picks up The Night, throwing him into the ropes.

BACKDROP RELEASE! THE HIGH AND MIGHTY!

NO! THE NIGHT FLIPS IN MID-AIR, DROPPING DOWN…

DDT TO MIGHTY MIGHTY!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: He got him down! Both of these men are down!

Seeing his chance, The Night crawls to the corner, clutching his ribs. He climbs to the top rope…

DARKNESS FALLS!

THE SEAN-TON BOMB LANDS FLUSH!

The newcomer hooks the leg for the pinfall.

ONE…

TWO…

THREE!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Impressive debut from The Night here, taking down the Mighty one.

MATT RUBY: I’m in shock, BB.


WINNER: THE NIGHT
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The Wild Card II


Way & Co has been open for a few weeks and it’s fair to say that business is booming. Hundreds of people enjoy themselves in the amusement park, but it isn’t there we lurk. We head beyond the joy and cheer to a darkened room in which Damien Solus sits tied to a chair, bound and gagged, as Klaus Way looms over him with a fire poker in hand.

Without thought or hesitation, he leans the fire poker against Solus’ chest, watching with glee as it burns and scolds him. Solus screams in agony, sweat dripping from his brow and saliva pouring from his mouth – but he refuses to pass out or give in.

Just then, a voice triggers a stillness in Klaus Way. “Now, this seems like my kind of party.”

That voice belongs to Jasper Redgrave, who has been sitting behind the Ringmaster for quite some time, watching in the shadows.

“Men like Damien aren’t born” Klaus says, returning his fire poker to the fire. “They’re forged by men like me.”

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I always knew he was a sick man, but I had no idea he did this.

MATT RUBY: A sick man? Does it look like Solus is protesting his treatment?

“You won’t hear any critique from me,” Jasper says with a smile, standing to meet him where he stands near the fire. “May I?”

Klaus nods, handing the poker over to Redgrave who takes it back to Solus, taking joy in burning him.

“It seems as if you and I are men of similar ilk, Klaus. I like that. You’ve probably learned by now that at Thunderstrike, I’ll be defending my Championship against you and Attano both,” Jasper says with a wry smile, turning to face The Ringmaster. “So, I’ve come with an offer.”

He tosses the fire poker back in the fire and dusts off his hands.

“Zeus has asked me to join the Preservationists – his elite army of men and women that wish to see Arcadia untouched by The Great Beyond,” Redgrave continues with a smile. “And should you join it too, he’ll make sure your past stays… in the past.”

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: This could be terrible for the Seekers. The Uprising have their sights on recruiting Way but how can they compete with an offer like that?

MATT RUBY: They can't, BB.

That offer sounds too good to be true, but Way takes it in none the less. He thinks about it for a moment, stroking his chin.

“Consider it,” the World Champion implores. “You have until Thunderstrike to make your decision.”

Jasper exits the tent promptly, leaving The Ringmaster to debate carefully his very important next move.

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BRONCO BLACKWOOD: The returning Drewitt takes on the Arcadia’s own here, Captain Arcadia tonight.

MATT RUBY: Don’t call him a hero BB. He’s a whingy little tosser.

Captain Arcadia starts off hot, charging at Drewitt with a Driving Shoulder. But he merely bounces off the large frame of the immortal Pilgrim, skidding to the floor and leaping back to his feet. He leaps at Drewitt.

PUNCH OF THE BROTH- OOF!

DREWITT JUST GRABBED HIM BY THE LEGS!

ALABAMA SLAM! SIGHTSEER!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD:There’s a sight we haven’t seen in Arcadia for some time.

MATT RUBY: Captain Arcadia getting his ass kicked? I think we’ve seen that before. But I can’t get enough of it.

Drewitt grabs Cap by the scruff of the neck and lifts him into the air with both hands, before switching to a choke hold.

ARDUOUS JOUR- NO!

CAPTAIN ARCADIA JUST KICKED WITH ALL HE’S GOT AND DREWITT DROPS HIM!

Cap hits the ground in a three point stance, superhero landing, and pulls the big man towards him.

RIPCORD LARIAT!

THE LAST LINE!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Well, Drewitt definitely felt that one.

MATT RUBY: He’s a pretty big guy to see arse over tits like that. Big men fall hard too.

Cap climbs up the turnbuckle. He makes a salute towards his opponent before leaping off.

STAR SPANGLED FIVE STAR FROG SPLASH!

BUT DREWITT CATCHES HIM, ON HIS KNEES!

HE PUSHES HIMSELF TO HIS FEET!

AND SLAMS CAPTAIN ARCADIA DOWN TO THE MAT!

Drewitt doesn’t let go of Cap, he merely pulls him back up into his clutches again. Right up, until he’s holding him upside down above his head.

AFTERMATH!

ORANGE CRUSH!

CAPTAIN ARCADIA JUST ATE CANVAS!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: What power from Drewitt right there. He may have broken Captain Arcadia damn well in half.

MATT RUBY: If he has, I’ll buy him a beer later. He’d be doing us all a favour.

Drewitt pulls Cap to his feet and grabs him by the throat.

ARDUOUS JOURNEY!

HE NAILS THE CHOKESLAM AND COVERS FOR THE PIN!

ONE!

TWO!

THREE!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Drewitt takes down Captain Arcadia in his first match back.


WINNER: DREWITT
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In Conquest, In War


The match over, we're left with Drewitt in the ring, Grimskull having joined him. The Martyr produces a microphone, staring towards the entranceway with a fire in his eyes.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Grimskull looks furious, Ruby!

MATT RUBY: With a mug like that I'd be pissed too.

"Muerte! Gemini! Get out here!" His voice booms over the arena, the crowd looking to the stage expectantly only to be met with crickets. Grimskull grinds his teeth, seething. "All we want... All we want are answers. Why did you abandon us? We stood side by side, spilling our blood, sweat, and tears onto the pavement together just to open that door. And yet, when those steel gates swung open... You left us to die."

The crowd boos as Grimskull hangs his head. "And you're too cowardly to even come out here and tell us why."

He shakes his head, turning to leave when Drewitt snatches the mic out of his hand! War glares down the top of the entrance ramp, his words soaked in venom. "Don't you fucking ignore us!"

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: By God, I didn't know Drewitt had a temper!

MATT RUBY: I bet his face is as red as his coat.

"If you're going to just hide, then I'm going to do everything I can to smoke you out. Well, I'll tell you what. Until you man up and answer us, I'm bringing my own brand of War to Anthesteria. War never changes, and I'll never forget what you've done."

The mic clatters to the ground as Drewitt tosses it aside, leaving the ring with Grimskull in tow.

Cut.

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The Blood Moon


The camera opens on a dark, desolate forest under a blood-red moon. The wind howls through twisted branches, carrying faint echoes of chaos from Arcadia’s unrest. The shot follows a trail of blood, weaving through broken branches and thick mud, before stopping in a clearing.

There, Wolf Fang Ayame crouches, her body trembling as her hands hover over the slaughtered wolf at her feet. Its lifeless body lies torn and broken, its fur matted with blood. Ayame’s breaths are sharp, her fingers curling into claws as her grief twists into rage.

She lifts her head and notices the symbols carved into the trees surrounding her twisted spirals and jagged marks, their lines glowing faintly red. Her gaze lands on one carving, etched deeper than the others:

“Eclipse & Gravedigger — Love Forever.”

Ayame’s lips curl into a snarl as her shoulders shudder. Her trembling hands dig into the dirt, her nails dragging raw lines as her chest heaves. 

The camera pans up, focusing on a distant hilltop, silhouetted against the blood-red moon. There, Eclipse and Gravedigger stand side by side. Eclipse tilts her head slightly, her piercing gaze locking onto Ayame.

A wicked smirk spreads across Eclipse’s face as she cups her hands around her mouth and lets out a mocking howl that echoes through the clearing. Ayame’s eyes narrow, her breath catching as Eclipse lifts her hand and blows a taunting kiss toward her. The couple turn and disappear into the shadows, leaving Ayame alone.

Ayame’s breathing turns ragged, her nails digging into the dirt beside the wolf’s body. She lowers her head, her shoulders shaking, her growl low and guttural. The camera lingers on her bloodied hands.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Eclipse and Gravedigger just poured gasoline on a fire they can’t control. Ayame’s not just grieving, she's transforming. They’re gonna regret this.

MATT RUBY: Oh, spare me, BB. Eclipse and Gravedigger are a power couple under the blood moon. Ayame’s just the angry ex screaming at the sky…pathetic, but entertaining!

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BRONCO BLACKWOOD: We've got a big tag team matchup here folks as The Reverend and the Ringmaster team up to face off against the Chef and the newly turned Black Bride. All of these competitors had huge nights at Red Snow but can they continue their momentum going forward tonight? 

MATT RUBY: Finally we've got some dames on this show. Aurora was hot but my god is she so much hotter as a bad girl. I always knew I liked it better in the dark BB.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Careful Ruby, her husband might send you on your way if you're not careful. 

The bell sounds as Savor faces off against Graves, Savor rushing in for a double leg but he gets a hard knee to the jaw for his troubles. Graves begins to pummel Savor with heavy lefts and rights, open palm strikes, elbows and even a few more knees before he backs up, looking to the heavens for a moment before rushing forward.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: HOLY...NO! Savor ducks underneath the Lariat, landing the CREME BRULEE SUPERKICK! 

Graves is rocked as Savor goes to tag out but the Bride is occupied with taunting the booing crowd. Before he can forcibly tag her in, he's turned around by Graves who rocks him with a wicked headbutt and plants him into the canvas with a hard Spinebuster.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Graves tagging in Klaus here who sidles up to Savor, kicking him square in the face before ducking a right hand, 

ROLL UP! ROLL UP! This could be it as River drops down to count

 

ONE

 

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TWO

 

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SAVOR GETS THE SHOULDER UP!

Savor stumbles up, rocking Klaus with a hard uppercut but an attempt at an irish whip is countered as Savor is sent into the ropes. Savor stumbles forward into a knee to the ribs.

CIRQUE DOULEUR! STORMBREAKER HITS! Klaus covers as River slides in to count,

ONE

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LIGHTS OUT! ECLIPSE OUT OF NOWHERE WITH THE MOONSAULT ONTO KLAUS WAY! 

She pulls Savor out, throwing him on top of Klaus before rushing forward and flipping through the ropes with a tornado ddt on Graves, but Graves tosses her off into the barricade! The referee begins his count...

ONE

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TWO

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GRAVES BREAKS UP THE NEAR FALL!

THE REFEREE HAS HAD ENOUGH! HE CALLS FOR THE BELL! THIS ONE IS OVER!

MATT RUBY: What the hell is he doing!?

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: He's had enough of the interference, Ruby. I'm hearing this one is a Double Disqualification!


WINNER: DOUBLE DQ DRAW
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Security Footage I


On a CCTV monitor, we see video feed of a club somewhere within Arcadia. A large number of patrons are buying drinks and generally forgetting about their woes of the ongoing war for a few moments. In the middle of it all stands a man in a red jacket, who watches on with the eyes of a hawk, making sure no one creates trouble in the premises.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Looks like we've stumbled upon someone spying on the Concierge of Crime. What do they hope to gain by watching Red?

MATT RUBY: Hopefully something more exciting than this. If I wanted to watch other people drink away their problems, I'd go to Red's establishment myself.

Just then, the door to the club entrance forcefully swings open, getting the attention of everyone in the vicinity. Ezekiel Graves and his Disciples of Christ walk inside, with every member of the Reverend's followers armed to the teeth. Red scowls as the Disciples circle around the club owner, preventing a quick escape.

"Shut down this hive of filth," The Apostle says with contempt. "It goes against God's will and is home to nefarious and shady activity." This causes the Man in the Hat to scoff.

"No way," Red says defiantly. "I'm not bending the knee to some cult because my club happens to offend your made up deity. Get lost."

"Have it your way," Ezekiel sighs, signaling to his Disciples to wreak havoc. They proceed to take their weapons and smash just about everything in Red's club. From stools and chairs, to glasses and bottles of alcohol, nothing is spared. The Concierge attempts to disarm one of the Disciples, but gets an elbow to the nose for his troubles before they start attacking him too.

As this unfolds, we pan over to the person watching the chaos unfold. The only thing we can identify on them is that they're a masculine figure that wears a helmet with glowing red eyes.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Hang on a minute, that's Nero! What's he doing watching security footage of Red's club?

MATT RUBY: Whatever reason he has, it can't be good. Anyone that can stop serving Zeus and the APD at the drop of a credit can't be trusted to use whatever's caught on camera for good.

Cut.

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BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Tonight we only have one question to ask: Can one ring contain all six Titans in this match?

MATT RUBY: I'll handle Narcissa if it needs help.

The bell rings as Hatchet and Attano start this match off! The Juggalo rushes Harold down, clobbering the former world champ with a massive forearm! He whips Attano to his corner, rushing for a clothesline-

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: SUPERKICK! HEADSHOT! BUT HATCHET IS STILL STANDING!

MATT RUBY: WIG SPLIT! HE JUST HEADBUTT THE OLD GEEZER!

Hatchet collapses to the corner and Gravedigger tags himself in! He steps between the ropes, peeling Harold out of the corner and nailing a nasty German Suplex! He immediately puts Harold onto his shoulders!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: GTS- NO! ATTANO SLIPS OUT AND PUSHES GRAVEDIGGER TO HIS CORNER!

MATT RUBY: THOSE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR WALKING! THE SECOND GEEZER WITH THE BIG BOOT!

Harold tags in Foley who immediately stops as he stares down the new Ferryman, Gravedigger getting to his feet with a scowl. Foley puts up his fists but Gravedigger shakes his head as he backs up and tags in Narcissa! Grimskull blind tags Foley!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: NARCISSA HANDSPRINGS ACROSS THE RING! TREND KILLERRRRRRRRRRRR!

MATT RUBY: DAMN IT! GRIMSKULL WITH THE DROP TOE HOLD! DEATH TO HELLIONS INTO THE TURNBUCKLE!

Grimskull rolls Narcissa up out of the turnbuckle!

ONE!

...

TWO!

...

THREE!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: This match was as quick as it was chaotic! But the team of Harold Attano, Grimskull, and Friendly Foley thrived in it as they claim victory here tonight!


WINNER: GRIMSKULL, HAROLD ATTANO & FELIX FOLEY
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Bought & Paid


We cut to the scene of Anton Savor’s restaurant, where a mere smattering of patrons have braved the war to partake in his culinary delights.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Anton Savor’s palace of culinary delights is truly the feather in the cap of Arcadia.

MATT RUBY: Well, it was at least until this civil war began. It's hardly a full house tonight. Has Savor’s empire begun to fall on hard times?

The sound of an upheaval of sorts coming from the back, behind closed doors. Through the swinging doors, we catch the glimpse of a certain red, white and blue shield.

“We’re done. Quitting. Not working for a murdering bastard like that…”

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Sounds like Anton Savor’s workers are walking off the job after finding out just how he took control of his empire.

MATT RUBY: But did you see what I saw? Who do you think is whispering in their ears? Why is Captain Arcadia in the damned kitchen?

Behind the door, Captain Arcadia has a group of his workers gathered, pleading with them.

“If you stay, know what kind of a man you are supporting. The kind of man who would murder his own mentor.”

Several workers throw their aprons down and storm out. Others have no problem, clearly a job is a job. Savor himself walks in.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?”

He starts at Arcadia, but Cap doesn’t seem intimidated. He stands toe to toe with Savor.

“You used me. I took the bait and lined up everything you wanted. You got me to do your dirty work. I’m just making sure they know that no matter how well you cook, everything in this kitchen will always taste like betrayal.”

Savor smirks. He pushes his finger into Cap’s chest.

“I love the fire in your eyes, but you are aiming your anger at the wrong person. There’s a simple reason why Roland Gray is no longer here to answer for his part.”

Cap considers Savor’s words, but eventually shakes his head.

“Sunshine will keep. You will answer for your crimes first. Mark my words.”

Those loyal to Savor close in on Arcadia, throwing him through the door, into the now empty restaurant. Savor’s voice calls after him.

“Yours is to go, asshole.”

Cut.

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BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Next up is an explosive competition between the dastardly delighted Mr. Sunshine taking on the young man born of fire Destructo Boy.  

MATT RUBY: I am torn here Bronco. Sunshine gives me the creeps but at the same time, I’m disappointed to know that Destructo Boy isn’t inhabiting a grave alongside his dear ole’ daddy.  

BRONCO: Ruby, the kid’s a survivor, and after the revelations at Red Snow, Sunshine isn’t as empty-headed as you claimed. 

Referee River Moonfoot calls for the bell and Destructo rushes Sunshine. 

Shining Wizard! 

SEE... 

NO... 

CAUGHT ACROSS THE SHOULDER OF SUNSHINE AND THE HERO IS SENT INTO AN AIRPLANE SPIN BEFORE BEING SLAMMED DOWN WITH A SAMOAN DROP! 

MATT RUBY: Sunshine is out here playing THE DIZZY GAME! 

Sunshine looks to press the advantage going for a Big Swing! 

SUNRISE SUNSET!  RELEASING JAMES AND SENDING HIM FLYING INTO THE CORNER! 

Destructo Boy dizzily pulls himself back to his feet and Charlie Boye is right behind him! 

WELCOME TO THE SUNSHINE CLUB! 

THE FULL NELSON FLAPJACK DROPS THE KID FACE-FIRST INTO THE CANVAS BEFORE ROLLING INTO THE COVER AS RIVER MOONFOOT MAKES THE COUNT! 

ONE... 

TWO... 

THREE! 

MATT RUBY: Man, what’s become of Mr. Sunshine! 

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: There’s an edge to a man who used to be seen as happiness personified!


WINNER: MISTER SUNSHINE
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The Anti-Hero


BRONCO BLACKWOOD: This poor guy has been through so much. I have no idea how he’s still standing, let alone able to compete here tonight.

MATT RUBY: He did just lose his father, I suppose. That’s no excuse though. He should be here and competing, Bronco.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Do you even know what empathy is? 

As Destructo gets back to his feet, the crowd give him a standing ovation, but he has no intention of stopping to soak it up. He demands a microphone from the ring announcer and heads to the ropes, facing the entrance ramp.

“Cut the fucking music,” he says bluntly, surprising the crowd. “Nox! Doom! I’m not playing cat and mouse with you – get your asses out here and let’s settle this.”

MATT RUBY: Is he mad!? He’s calling them out right now.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: The Corporation are responsible for the deaths of both his parents, Ruby. What do you think?

MATT RUBY: I think he wants a plot in the graveyard beside them at this rate. 

Broken Mirror by Chess Theory crackles over the loudspeaker as smoke fills the entrance ramp. Nox and Doom step casually out, peering down the rampway towards Destructo who stands in the middle of the ring, waiting. He arrogantly sits on the middle rope, holding it open for the arrival of his foes.

MATT RUBY: He should’ve been more careful with what he wished for.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I know Destructo is hurting but this isn’t the way. 

Nox and Doom storm down the ramp and circle the ring, each looking to enter from a different point. Like rabid wolves, they know precisely what they need to do. Doom fakes entering under the bottom rope and as Destructo goes to strike, Nox comes in from behind, clobbering him immediately to the canvas.

Doom soon follows suit, and The Corporation are on him like a pack of dogs, stomping violently away at The Anti Hero.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Stop this! Just stop it!

MATT RUBY:  He asked for it, BB 

Suddenly, "You've Got A Friend In Me" by Randy Newman hits to a tremendous ovation from the sold out crowd.

MATT RUBY: WHAT’S HE DOING HERE!?

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: FELIX FOLEY HAS SEEN ENOUGH!

Green flashing lights adorn the entrance as Felix Foley comes bounding out from the entrance way, storming down the entrance ramp with a steel chair and sliding under the bottom rope. Nox and Doom make hasty exits, sliding out as he slides in.

Destructo slowly gets back to his feet as Foley slams the steel chair down and stands on the bottom rope, yelling outside to Doom specifically. “What’s the matter, you can’t handle a fair fight!?”

Foley turns around to check on The Anti Hero…

JUSTICE BARRAGE! 

WHAT THE FUCK!? 

BRONCO BLACKWOOD:  WHAT’S HE DOING!?

 A FLURRY OF BLOWS… PELE KICK…. DOWN GOES FOLEY! DOWN GOES FOLEY TO HIS KNEES!

MATT RUBY: SHINNNNING WIZARD! SHINING WIZARD TO THAT INTERRUPTING IDIOT WHO CAN’T MIND HIS OWN BUSINESS!! 

The fans don’t know how to react. Destructo gets back to his feet, turning his attention back to Doom and Nox who stand equally as surprised on the rampway. He picks up his dropped microphone, standing over Felix and looking up at them.

“You took my mom. You took my dad. You two killed the last remaining hero that Arcadia had. I’m no hero, I’m all that’s left,” he hisses angrily. “I don’t need his help to dig your fucking grave alongside them. That’s where you’re gonna end up, Nox.”

Destructo tosses the microphone away and returns to the middle rope, taking a seat to offer his enemies another shot at their attack.

Wisely, they walk away.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Destructo is no longer a boy, Ruby. This is a man out for vengeance and god help anyone who gets in his way.

MATT RUBY: Felix Foley is proof of that.

Image

Night Terrors I


Narcissa walks backstage, headed for the exit of Olympus. She’s flanked on both sides by stern-faced guards in dark tactical gear.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Looks like this war has made Narcissa more cautious.

MATT RUBY: Zeus will never let his Queen be touched.

Her heels echo sharply against the concrete as she approaches the exit.

Then—flicker.

The lights sputter, plunging the hall into brief darkness before stuttering back to life. The guards exchange silent glances, but Narcissa presses on, lips tight.

Flicker.

Longer this time. The bulbs buzz louder, the shadows stretching unnaturally across the walls.

When the lights return, the guards are gone.

MATT RUBY: Get Ares!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: What the hell is going on!?

Smoke curls from the floor, thick and white, obscuring the walls in creeping tendrils. Her breath catches as a shape looms in the haze—just a sliver of black fabric. A hood.

“Who’s there?” Her voice remains sharp, commanding.

No answer.

She turns sharply, and he’s there again. A hooded figure, closer.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Is that…

Then—gone. She spins. Another flash behind her.

Every direction she runs, the figure looms, closer each time, silent and still, like a phantom dragging the air colder with each appearance.

Panic. She clutches her chest, trembling as the smoke thickens—then, just as quickly, it fades.

MATT RUBY: It’s over.

The guards are back, helping a shaken Narcissa up.

“Queen! Are you okay? What happened?” 

Narcissa steadies herself, swallowing her fear. “You—did you see that? The smoke? The man?” 

The guards shake their heads.

She exhales, brushing herself off. “Nothing. It was nothing.” 

MATT RUBY: Yeah, BB, you need to get checked for dementia.

The camera lingers as she exits.

The Night is watching.

Cut.

Image

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: We have a big matchup here folks for a new OSW as El Mariachi Muerte faces off against DOOM with the Arcadian Civil War in full force here.

MATT RUBY: Looking forward to seeing that traitor Muerte get his head kicked in by Stubbins, about damn time too.

The bell sounds as EMM immediately rushes to the ropes, bouncing off and over DOOM

WITH THE LAST CARNIVALE! SPRINGBOARD LUNGBLOWER NEARLY BREAKS DOOMS SPINE IN HALF!

EMM doesn't cover instead rolling to his feet as he leaps up to the top rope, rose in mouth as he dives off.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: 48 ROSES...NO! He misses with the double foot stomp, DOOM just moving out of the way as EMM gets back up to one knee.

THE SCRAMBLER! DOOM nearly takes EMM's head off with a brutal knee to the side of the head, EMM looks dazed and confused as DOOM grips him by the throat with both hands, hanging him in the air.

AS THE HANDS OF DOOM CHOKE THE LIFE OUT OF EL MARIACHI MUERTE!

MATT RUBY: YES DOOMSIE! Snap that womanizing traitors neck once and for all.

EMM is flailing as DOOM squeezes down, Demi Sky seeing if EMM will tap out as EMM swings wild, managing to deliver a hard kick to the chest that loosens the grip enough for him to reach around, grabbing DOOM's head.

AND LANDING A DESPERATION DDT!

EMM slowly staggers to his feet, heading to the apron as he sizes up the dazed and confused DOOM slowly rising to his feet before springboarding up and forward.

MALICIOUS

SONATA!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: SPRINGBOARD STUNNNAHHH! EMM gets all of it as that has to be it.

EMM collapses onto DOOM, Demi Sky sliding in as she begins to count

ONE

.............

TWO

...............

..................

THREEE!!!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: EMM picks up a big victory here tonight, a statement for the Uprising against a Pantheon member here. 

MATT RUBY: Muerte got lucky BB, sooner or later Zeus and the Pantheon are going to crush the Uprising and maintain order in Arcadia. 


WINNER: EL MARIACHI MUERTE
Image

Security Footage II


On the same CCTV monitor from earlier tonight, we see the aftermath of the destruction Ezekiel Graves and his Disciples of Christ caused to Red's club. The patrons have all fled the scene and everything of value has been damaged beyond repair. The Concierge himself is down and out in the middle of the floor, bruised and battered.

Suddenly, the doors are pushed open, revealing a rather large figure surveying the damage in shock.

MATT RUBY: Oh no, not this Mighty oaf! I thought he was back at the Circus doing dance offs with the attendees!?

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: There were rumors he's been looking for a way out of his contract from under Klaus's nose. Maybe he thought Red might be able to help him with that?

After staring at the fallout for a good few seconds, Mighty Mighty rushes over to Red and picks him up, helping him sit on a raised surface close by.

"You alright?" the Chunk of Funk asks Red, who stirs slightly upon being questioned.

"I'm fine," The Man in the Hat says, brushing himself off. "Nothing I haven't taken before." With a sigh, Red turns to face Mighty, who looks unsure of what to do next. "Well, what do you want? You didn't come here to be my savior, so spit it out."

Mighty snaps back to reality and pulls out the contract he signed at Red Snow from his coat. He quietly presents it to the Concierge, who takes it and looks it over.

"I need your skills to get me out of this contract," Mighty says bluntly. "There has to be a loophole or something in there that can get me out of the Circus and make me a free man once more."

"Tell you what," Red begins, handing the contract back to the Chunk of Funk. "I'm gonna need you to do a favor for me before I even think about getting you out of your agreement. You scratch my back, I'll scratch yours, alright?"

As Mighty ponders Red's offer, we pan over to Nero again, who watches what unfolds with a tilt of his head.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: He's still watching Red? What on Arcadia can he possibly want with Red and Mighty?

MATT RUBY: Never mind him, I wanna know what the Concierge has planned for that massive idiot.

Cut.

Image

The lights dim in the arena as the opening of “For the Glory” play throughout the arena. A spotlight shines on the entrance as Jackson Cade slowly begins to rise up from the floor on a platform.

He stands at attention for a moment. 

WHAM! 

JASPER REDGRAVE FROM BEHIND WITH THE OSW WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP!! 

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: It was a trap! I knew it would be! Redgrave is a son of a bitch!

MATT RUBY: Why’d Cade even turn up!? 

Jasper pulls Jackson back to his feet and drags him down the ramp, tossing him into the steel steps as the referee demands that he get it in the ring or be disqualified.

The World Champion smiles at him before pulling him up and angrily slamming him back into the steps a second time, ignoring the demands of the referee.

DING! DING! DING!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: He’s called for the bell!

MATT RUBY: He can’t do that! He can’t disqualify our Champion before this even begins!!

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: He can and he has! 

With Jackson slumped against the ring steps, Jasper backs away with sinister intentions…

Suddenly, the lights drop in Olympus, and we hear the rattling of chains…

“I will stay and fight As long as I'm alive”

-Silence-

“And Kill ‘Till I Die”

-Beat-

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: IT’S ATTANO! ATTANO IS COMING TO SAVE CADE!

MATT RUBY: What a disgrace!! 

Harold Attano makes a b-line for Redgrave who meets him on the entrance ramp. Both men fight back up it towards the entrance itself, heading backstage in a brawl.

Cade meanwhile rolls under the bottom rope, exhausted.


WINNER BY DQ: JACKSON CADE
Image

Sail Away


Jackson Cade kneels in the center of the ring.

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: This man walked right into this trap just because he wanted Redgrave so bad.

MATT RUBY: Desire only means you’ll do stupid things, BB.

Redgrave slinks out of the ring, a smug grin lingering, but Cade isn't finished.

“This isn’t over!” Cade calls out, shoving himself to his feet in a rage towards the World Champion.

Flutter.

Darkness.

The crowd's roar dims to a whisper, a hush of anticipation, dread. A spotlight cracks to life behind him, and before Cade can react, a massive hand clasps his neck, hoisting him high.

Gravedigger.

His voice is a low rumble. "Why do you seek to destroy the order Zeus has so carefully preserved?"

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Has Gravedigger chosen a side?

MATT RUBY: Following in the former Ferryman’s steps, it seems.

Cade thrashes, teeth gritted, defiant—but Gravedigger’s grip tightens.

CHOKESLAM!

But the mat never meets Jackson Cade.

He falls into black.

The cold engulfs him.

Water.

Endless, icy, consuming. Cade plunges downward, panic rising as the darkness presses closer. But his instincts surge—his head breaches the surface, gasping, reaching for something—anything.

Wood.

He grips the edge, dragging himself onto a boat, dripping, coughing. Familiar. Too familiar.

Tombstone’s boat.

No. Not Tombstone's.

Gravedigger rows, a lantern swaying gently with the rhythm of the oar. And across from him, seated silently on the vessel's cold bench—

BRONCO BLACKWOOD: No, no no…

C.J. Thorpe.

Static.

A Stop ■ symbol appears in the bottom right hand corner of the screen as we fade to black.