WARZONE #375
Stranger Days
This week on Warzone, Stranger Days arise when Jasper Redgrave is forced to team with his opponents for Thunderstrike, Klaus Way and Harold Attano in the Main Event. Their opponents? The even stranger, if not somehow known team of Doom, Felix Foley and Destructo.
Stranger Days I
Click.
Static covers the screen as a Play ► symbol appears in the bottom right-hand corner as we go back to last week.
The sounds of a radio tuning echo throughout the arena as the lights dim. As the radio settles on the bouncy carnival stylings of his theme song, a single spotlight shines atop the ramp, and Klaus Way steps into it.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Warzone!
MATT RUBY: We’re kicking things off with Klaus Way and I can’t wait for it.
"Welcome to the Freak Show! Let us show you the Way!" rings out, followed by the creepy laugh "Ha ha hee ha ha ha". As the song kicks in fully, the house lights blare on to show an assortment of Klaus' freaks following him to the ring and showing their tricks or freakish natures.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Do you think he’ll explain his actions from last week?
MATT RUBY: Why should he? He made his choice.
As Klaus enters the ring the spotlight centres back on him, and his freaks disappear into the darkness. He reveals a microphone.
“BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”
“Welcome to the freak show!” He says to rapturous boos.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Let him know what you really think, Arcadia.
MATT RUBY: What an unhospitable environment! These people should be ashamed of themselves.
“Two weeks ago, I was made an offer I simply couldn’t refuse. Join the Preservationists, or else. Enticing, no?” He remarks with a wry smile. “Give up my title opportunity. Give up my freedom. Become enslaved to a cause I have no stake in.”
The fans continue to boo.
“And last week, I made my decision clear. That offer I simply couldn’t refuse, I refused. I suppose that’s why they’re calling me The Wild Card,” Klaus continues, now pacing the ring. “But why Klaus, why?”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Yeah, why?
MATT RUBY: Calm down BB, he’s getting there.
"Please allow me to introduce myself.."
"I'm a man of wealth, and taste.."
The arena falls into darkness. A single stage light beams down on the entrance way as it begins to fill with a thick fog. "Sympathy for The Devil" by The Rolling Stones begins hammering the sound system and the fog slowly begins to part until the silhouette of a man stands just behind the spotlight.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Oh does the World Champion look bloody furious. Last week, Klaus hit him in the back of the head with a Spinning Hidden Blade that he calls The Bullhandler. Redgrave was absolutely blindsided...
MATT RUBY: And embarrassed to boot.
The silhouette takes full form as "The Artist" Jasper Redgrave steps into the light. The crowd of Arcadians stare in awe at the killer as he brings a microphone out and demands his music be stopped.
“Cut my fucking music!” He yells angrily, the music cutting abruptly. “Are you fucking stupid?” He asks Klaus, entering the ring.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I had been wondering that myself.
MATT RUBY: Rude.
Jasper immediately comes face to face with him. “I thought we had an understanding. You join The Preservationists, help me retain my Championship and your secret remains safe with us.”
Klaus scoffs. “Why would I do any of that? What’s so exciting about your band of merry men, Jasper? Are you the defacto leader, is that it? You, Gravedigger and Narcissa, hm. That sounds like one hell of a troupe when one of those men tried to beat the hell out of you in the Main Event last week.”
The World Champion scrunches up his nose.
“Why would I give up the opportunity of a lifetime for that?” Way asks with a shrug. “That pretty title around your waist isn’t an opportunity that comes around often. Besides, I’m no dafty. I know why you want me on your side. It’s not because you need me. It’s because you’re looking for help retaining your title.”
“Help?” Redgrave this time scoffs. “I’ll show you how much help I need, Klaus.”
The Champion steps in..
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: It’s gonna kick off right here, folks!
MATT RUBY: FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT!
The lights drop in Olympus, and we hear the rattling of chains and on then...
“I will stay and fight As long as I'm alive”
-Silence-
“And Kill ‘Till I Die”
-Beat-
And a spotlight is thrown on the centre of the stage revealing Harold Attano light, “I’M A DEADMAN WALKING!”
Dead Man Walking by WarHall picks up as The Arcadian Ghost begins to make his way to the ring.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: It looks like Attano has heard enough. He was the other man attacked last week by The Way & Co.
MATT RUBY: Klaus is outnumbered here.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: He may have to get used to that.
Attano enters the ring with his microphone as the music dies down.
“Is that what the World Championship has come to?” He asks with disgust. “Tombstone, despite his flaws, defended it valiantly. CJ Thorpe brought honour back to it. Then there’s you, Jasper Redgrave – the cowardly Champion. Who’d have thought it? The singular man with more blood on his hands than anyone here and I say that knowing exactly how many men I’ve killed, is the first man holding that title since Narcissa Balenciaga to be a fucking coward!”
MATT RUBY: This cockroach ought to watch his mouth!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: He’s not wrong though, is he? Jasper’s deals are cowardly. He’s trying to retain the title with help.
MATT RUBY: The Killer King doesn’t need any help!
“Watch your mouth!” Redgrave warns with a sinister growl. “There’s a difference between cowardice and intelligence. You should try it sometime, Harold – you know, thinking, it enlightens upon options you may not otherwise had considered.”
“I’m no-one’s option,” Way interrupts. “I’m the Way.”
MATT RUBY: Do you get the feeling this could explode at any moment?
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I do. There’s a brawl brewing right now.
All three men close in on one another, tensions building in the middle of the ring.
“WAIT A MINUTE!” A voice yells from somewhere in the arena, barely interrupting these three bulls preparing to go at it.
It belongs to Scott Sterling.
The Commissioner walks out onto the stage, sporting his neck brace and a microphone. “We’re not ruining the Main Event of Thunderstrike early. You three won’t be fighting each other here tonight.”
The fans boo.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Spoil sport!
“But you will be teaming up. Because tonight, in the Main Event, you three will be forced to coincide when you take on Felix Foley, Doom and Destructo in a trio’s match!” He says to cheers and fanfare from the crowd. All three men look less than impressed. “The commissioner has spoken.”
Sterling walks away, leaving all three men in the middle of the ring to talk to themselves off microphone, arguing ahead of what’ll be a tremendous Main Event here tonight.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Well folks, we weren’t blessed with the early fight we’re hoping we’d see but these three men of the Thunderstrike Main Event will be forced to team together tonight. They’ll be in action against another strange team in the form of Foley, Doom and Destructo.
MATT RUBY: Sterling is really setting the cat amongst the pigeons with this one. Doom brutalized Felix last week and Destructo didn’t make the save.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: That kid has been through a lot.
MATT RUBY: And he’s turning into an asshole. I love it.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Give him a chance, Ruby. He’ll come around. Meanwhile, I have no idea how any of those teams can function or co-exist here tonight.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Two fresh allies face off here tonight as Red goes face to face with his newly favored muscle. All Mighty wants is to get out of his circus contract but after last week, has he gotten way in over his head with the concierge?
MATT RUBY: Tons of Funk's an idiot BB, got himself a cushy deal with the circus but immediately tries to get out of it with a lowlife like Red. Hopefully getting his head kicked in will make him see sense.
The bell sounds as Red rushes forward, peppering Mighty with fast and swift strikes as he tries to use his speed against the much larger opponent. A hard uppercut rocks Mighty as Red tries to throw him across the ring but Mighty easily reverses, throwing Red across the ring before nearly turning him inside out with a mammoth Lariat.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Mighty using his superior size here as he pulls Red up, throwing him hard into the corner with a biel toss. Mighty doing a little dance here before he rushes forward.
CANNONBALL! Red gets crushed by a big time corner splash. Mighty backs up as Red stumbles out right into his clutches.
MIGHTY...NO! Red elbows his way out of the Swinging Slam, but gets a hard kick to the ribs that sends him back into the corner. Mighty looks for another Cannonball but Red manages to get out of the way this time, Mighty crashing against the steel as he stumbles out.
MATT RUBY: RED-DEMPTION! 300 pounds of blubber getting slammed into the canvas there BB.
Red gets to his feet, holding his back in pain for a moment before he tries to lift up Mighty for the Silent Execution. He can't lift up the much larger man though as he's powered back into the ropes. Red bounces off as Mighty rushes forward with a Lariat
RED DUCKS...POPS! Brutal elbow to the chin stuns Mighty as Red drops underneath, rolling Mighty up out of nowhere as Demi Sky slides down to count
ONE
............
TWO
............
RED HAS THE TIGHTS
................
THREE!!!
MATT RUBY: Ha! What did I tell ya BB? Losing is what an ingrate like Tons of Funk deserves.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Deserves is a strong word Ruby but Mighty did lose tonight as he gets a little taste of the kind of individual he wants to save him
Open Eyes, I
The heavy iron doors of the Mortuary swing open with a thunderous crack, slamming against the stone walls. Jackson Cade storms in, shotgun slung over his shoulder, fury radiating off him like a palpable force.
MATT RUBY: This is one of the dumbest things I’ve seen this idiot do.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Gravedigger took things too far, Ruby.
Shadows dance across the grim interior, the flicker of candlelight barely illuminating the rows of grotesque statues and darkened alcoves.
“Gravedigger!” Cade’s voice booms, echoing off the cold walls. “Get your ass out here! You want to play games? Let’s play!”
Silence answers him, stretching into an uncomfortable void.
Then, a figure emerges from the darkness.
Igor Mortis.
“He isn’t here,” Mortis says, his words laced with unsettling calm. “But I suspect he’s expecting you.”
Cade’s grip tightens on the shotgun, his knuckles turning white. “You tell your Valkyrie something for me,” Cade growls, stepping closer, his breath hot with rage. “I got the message loud and clear. He wanted to remind me why I’m in this war? Well, mission accomplished. My eyes are wide fucking open now.”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Has Gravedigger unlocked something new in Jackson Cade?
Mortis tilts his head, an amused glint in his hollow eyes. “And where should I tell him you’ll be?”
Jackson leans in, inches from Mortis, his tone sharp as steel. “Tell him to meet me in No Man’s Land. Just him. No shadows. No tricks.”
Without another word, Cade shoulders past Mortis, disappearing into the night, leaving the Mortuary’s doors swinging like a grim omen.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: The Fallen Dragon takes on the hero of the people in his debut here tonight. Can Caido rise above Captain Arcadia?
The bell rings and both men immediately lock up in the center of the ring! El Dragon lashes out with a violent overhand chop to the chest before grabbing Arcadia's hand and running up the ropes!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: SPRINGBOARD ARM DRAG! BEAUTIFULLY EXECUTED!
MATT RUBY: Keep it in your pants, you geezer!
Caido rolls through, immediately running up the nearest turnbuckle and leaping off with a moonsault!
ONTO THE KNEES OF ARCADIA!
Cap peels El Dragon up, nailing him with a few powerful right hands before slipping behind!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: THE LAST LINE! RIPCORD LARIAT PUTS EL DRAGON CAIDO DOWN!
MATT RUBY: Caught him right in the fire breather!
Arcadia doesn't go for the pin, instead forcing Caido up once up and whipping him towards the turnbuckle! Arcadia rushes forward with a stinger splash!
ONLY TO GET CAUGHT WITH THE FIRE BREATH! PENDULUM KICK!
El Dragon immediately rises to the top turnbuckle but Arcadia is right behind him! Both competitors throw lefts and rights as they fight for control! Caido lashes out with a kick that sends Arcadia towards the mat!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: THE WINGS THAT ECLIPSE THE SUN! LEAPING DDT PLANTS THE CAPTAIN!
MATT RUBY: And he goes for the cover!
ONE!
...
...
TWO!
...
...
THREE!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: This was a competitive back and forth, but The Dragon has just shown just why he's one of the best luchadors in Arcadia as he gets a massive win in his debut match!
Why, I
"Why?"
The voice of Grimskull introduces the scene. Conquest sits at a table across from Drewitt, the embodiment of War crossing his arms.
"What they did to us? What we went thr0ugh in that fucking vault? I'm pissed too. But why did you try and destroy Anestheria?"
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I'm curious too, Ruby. Drewitt's been taking his anger out on just about everyone!
MATT RUBY: Because they deserve it, Bronco. What other reason is there?
"Why?" Drewitt says, tilting his head. "Let me spell it out for you, Grim. When that door slammed shut behind us and locked us inside I was sentenced to something worse than death. I was sentenced to eternity in that bunker to suffer at the hands of my own immortality. You? John? I would have had to watch you both slowly die!"
War stands up, looming over Grimskull.
"Do you have any idea how that feels? The panic? The resignation? All of that, and they can't even tell me why they did it."
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I can't say that I wouldn't be just as furious if I was in Drewitt's shoes here.
MATT RUBY: Like I said, they deserve it, Bronco.
"Okay," Grimskull says with a sigh. "At Thunderstrike, I'll take on Muerte. I'd implore you to go after Gemini, maybe see if we have better luck getting answers out of them separately."
There's a pause, Drewitt eventually nodding his head.
"So be it. At Thunderstrike we'll pry the answer out of them. Or they can die trying."
Cut.
A Summons
Red and Mighty are in different areas backstage. The Concierge is in the locker room getting his belongings while the Chunk of Funk is at a vending machine looking for a quick drink.
Just as Mighty goes to grab a soda and Red goes to grab his hat, both of them notice a slip of paper placed in the collection rack and the shelf respectively. Curiosity wins out for both men as they proceed to take the sheet and unfurl it.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: This can't be good. When people get random sheets of paper in places they're likely to look in, it usually means trouble.
"Meet me at ringside," they both read aloud, "or have your secrets exposed to all of Arcadia?" The duo look around their immediate area to see if they can spot the person that delivered the note, but to no avail.
Confident they're alone, the Concierge and the Chunk of Funk proceed to ponder who might know something about the past couple weeks that would want to expose them.
"Can't be Mighty," Red says to himself. "That fat piece of shit would've exposed himself by outing me."
"Can't be Red," Mighty also says to himself. "He isn't crazy enough to reveal what kind of deal he took with me to expose me."
After a few seconds of silence, a collective lightbulb goes off above their heads as they snap their fingers in an unknowing unison.
"Ezekiel!" They yell simultaneously. Both men grab what they originally sought out and begin to head to the ring.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Looks like the Reverend is in deep trouble with these two. Did he really send those letters though?
MATT RUBY: I hope he did. That way, he can cleanse Arcadia of these two filthy rats for good!
Cut.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Ladies and gentlemen, we’ve got The Night taking on Nero next, but we’ve got a special guest at ringside.
MATT RUBY: I’m so giddy to see my Queen Narcissa at ringside, she even brought her guards with her!
The bell rings, and The Night bursts out of his corner, aiming to overwhelm Nero with a flurry of strikes.
SHOULDER TACKLE! THE NIGHT CAP—NO, NERO SIDESTEPS!
The Night turns to get back up, but The Cyberhound is ready.
SUPERKICK! THE FIREWALL SENDS THE NIGHT INTO THE ROPES!
At ringside, Narcissa smirks, her arms crossed, as her bodyguards loom nearby. The Night glances at them briefly as he recovers, just long enough for Nero to capitalize.
ANOTHER SUPERKICK—NO! THE NIGHT DUCKS AND HITS THE ROPES…
NERO FOLLOWS HIM IN, ROLL UP!
ONE…
…
…
TWO…
THE NIGHT POWERS OUT!
Narcissa scowls at the kick out, but Nero doesn’t relent, dragging The Night to his feet and hitting the ropes.
SPRINGBOARD… PACKET STORM! THE SPRINGBOARD CUTTER—NO! THE NIGHT ROLLS OUT OF THE WAY AT THE LAST SECOND!
NERO CRASHES TO THE MAT!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: The Night’s resilience is unmatched, but can he keep his focus with Narcissa out here?
MATT RUBY: Focus? He can’t even keep his eyes off her entourage!
The Night pulls Nero up…
GOODNIGHT VIENNA-- NOT YET! NERO SQUIRRELS OUT.
GUILLOTINE CHOKE...
THE RED REBOOT!
Nero holds on for the cover.
ONE…
…
…
TWO…
…
…
THREE!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Hell of a match, that.
MATT RUBY: I’m more interested in what our Queen has to say!
Night Terrors, III
Nero quickly escapes the ring as The Night gets back to his feet. Narcissa rises from her seat at ringside, watching The Night like a predator stalking her prey.
Her smile is tight, her expression calculating.
The moment she steps toward the apron, her guards storm the ring, their heavy boots thundering across the mat. The Night moves with uncanny precision, slipping through their grasps like smoke, evading every attempt to pin him down. His movements are calculated chaos, turning the guards’ brute strength into a futile display.
But then—FOREARM TO THE BACK OF THE HEAD FROM NARCISSA!
The Night stumbles, and before he can recover, her guards seize him, forcing him to his knees.
MATT RUBY: That’s it! Let’s get some damn answers!
“What the hell do you want from me?” Narcissa snarls, her voice a venomous hiss. She crouches, face inches from his, her rage barely contained.
The Night lifts his head slowly, his face paint casting shadows over his face. His voice, calm and chilling, breaks the tension: “Vengeance.”
Her jaw tightens. “You want vengeance? Fine. You’ll get your chance. I’ve booked us a match at Thunderstrike.” She smirks, leaning closer. “And when I beat you, you’ll tell me everything. No more games.”
The Night’s lips curl into a faint, unsettling smile. “Agreed,” he says, his voice unnervingly steady. “No matter what happens… you’ll know why I’ve come.”
Narcissa straightens, unease flickering in her eyes despite her defiant stance.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: He doesn’t sound all that upset to me.
MATT RUBY: Narcissa will sort him out, I’m sure of it.
Simmer
At Elysium, Anton Savor’s new staff are hustling and bustling, with a full restaurant to serve.
MATT RUBY: Business at Elysium is booming, compared to what we have seen recently.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Reports say families looking for reprieve from the war have kept a steady stream of customers.
Without warning, smoke fills the restaurant. Through the smoke, a waiter is thrown, crashing into a table and crumpling to an unconscious heap.
Captain Arcadia steps through the smoke, eyes burning behind the mask.
“Savor!” He calls. “You’ve been working hard, but it doesn’t change the fact that you never earned any of this.”
He holds up a bottle, with a cloth stemming from it.
“So I’m here to take it away.” He turns to the restaurant filled with terrified faces. “I’d run if I were you.”
Screaming fills the air as every man, woman and child in the premises flood toward the door.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Captain Arcadia is not messing around. He wants Savor to pay for everything he’s caused him.
MATT RUBY: Molotov Cocktail! It’s about to get hot in that kitchen.
Savor bursts through the door of the kitchen, flanked by four of his chefs. The chefs run at Arcadia. He’s outnumbered but not outskilled, fighting the entire quartet.
One chef is tossed over a table, a second is knocked unconscious by a shield blow. The remaining two take Cap down to his knees and hold him in place, smashing the molotov cocktail before Arcadia can light it.
It’s only now that we notice the restaurant isn’t empty. One table hasn’t moved, with a reserved sign reading ‘Sunshine Club’.
MATT RUBY: Don’t those kids know it’s dangerous in here? Those must be damned amazing nuggets.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Somehow, I suspect this is all part of the plan.
Savor draws close to Cap, backhanding him across the face.
“You pathetic little pest.” He spits. “This has simmered long enough. At Thunderstrike, I silence you.”
He forces a small pie-like morsel into Cap’s mouth, forcing him to swallow it.
“A little amuse-bouche for the road… Don’t worry, the effects aren’t permanent.”
Cap almost instantly seizes up, his body immobile. Savor smirks as his chefs drag him towards the door.
From the corner, there’s a buzz around the Sunshine Club table as the children chatter.
“Well, I’m sure he’ll want to know about all the fun we’ve had here…”
Cut.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Well folks, we're getting a treat tonight Ezekiel Graves defends his NXT Level Championship against none other than Wolf Fang Ayame!!
MATT RUBY: Let's hope this pretty young thing can gobble him up! I'd pay to see that.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Is there ever an occassion in which you're not an inappropriate and slimy so and so, Ruby?
MATT RUBY: You call it slimy, I call it slick.
The bell sounds as Ayame rushes forward, looking for a clothesline that Graves ducks underneath, sharp turning before leaping up with a Clothesline of his own that sends Ayame flying hard into the concrete floor. Graves barely lets her hit the floor before he rushes forward to pull her back to her feet.
ENZIGURI! KICK TO THE BACK OF THE HEAD!
The Champion stumbles backwards into a set of pews.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Wolf Fang not giving an inch to Graves here! She's really laid in that shot.
MATT RUBY: Get him girl!
Graves stumbles up out of the pews into another basement dropkick that drops him down to one knee before Wolf Fang lays in hard kick after kick. She backs up... HEAVEN'S HOWL! DIVING KNEES! NO! GRAVES ROLLED AWAY!
He pops back to his feet, grabbing her into a massive European Forearm that sends her spiralling backwards. SPINEBUSTER STRAIGHT INTO THE FUCKING PEWS! THERE'S BROKEN WOOD EVERYWHERE!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: SUCH BRUTALLY IN THE LORDS HOUSE!
Graves doesn't cover, instead pulling her immediately back to her feet.
THE FINAL JUDGEMENT! Picture Perfect CHOKESLAM hits hard! Ezekiel drops into the cover... Demi Sky sliding in to make the count...
ONE
...........
TWO
.............
.................
THREE!!!
MATT RUBY: The Reverend retains! I guess there's no celebration for Ayame here tonight. I was hoping for an invite.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: He squeaked out the win here, Ruby. Wolf Fang should be proud of her efforts, it just wasn't enough.
Exposure
Not long after the match has ended, Mighty Mighty and Red rush down to the ring with glares aimed straight at the Reverend. They slide into the ring and stare down the winded Ezekiel, who backs up into one of the corners in response.
"You think you can threaten to expose us like you've got nothing to hide!?" Red yells as the Chunk of Funk forcibly lifts the Apostle to his feet. "I knew you were crazy, but I didn't peg you as stupid!"
MATT RUBY: Where on Arcadia are his Disciples!? They should be out here protecting their leader and delivering the beat down themselves!
"What are you talking about?" Ezekiel asks. "I didn't threaten to expose either of you."
"Then who sent the letter!?" Mighty yells, causing both Red and Graves to look at him with surprise.
"You too?" They both ask simultaneously, creating more confusion between the three of them.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Wait, the Reverend received a note too? If not him, then who sent them?
Just then, a high pitched screeching sound emits from the speakers, causing everyone within the vicinity to cover their ears. The monitor above the ring entrance statics out before revealing live video feed of Nero in his hideout. He can be heard chuckling sinisterly as the trio to regain their hearing.
MATT RUBY: That answer your question, Bronco!? It was the Red Reboot that sent those letters!
"I see you all have received my message. Now that you're here, I can get right to business. I have eyes and ears wherever cameras are at Arcadia. As such, I have knowledge that you all wouldn't want getting out."
"What I want from you three is absolute compliance in our upcoming match at Thunderstrike. Failure to provide it will result in every meeting between you all leaked to the public. You don't want the Disciples to know about your shady dealings, do you, Ezekiel?"
This causes the Harbinger to ball his fist as Nero continues.
"You definitely don't want everyone to know about the deal you've got going on behind closed doors, right Mighty?"
The Chunk of Funk grimaces, yet Nero continues.
"And you absolutely wouldn't want people to know about how quick to violence you are and what your club really is, do you Red?"
Red grits his teeth. Nero laughs as the feed cuts to static, leaving the three pondering what to do.
Cut.
Stranger Days II
Felix Foley is pretty banged up after last week’s attack. Sporting various bandages and stitches, he walks down the corridor, stopping at the locker room of Destructo. His name tag on the door says DESTRUCTO BOY, only the world BOY has been crossed out.
Foley reluctantly knocks the door, entering without welcome.
Upon seeing him, Destructo jumps to his feet.
“I come waving the white flag,” Foley immediately opens with, his arms raised in surrender. “I don’t want to fight.”
Destructo rolls his eyes and sits down. “What do you want?”
Foley reluctantly sits next to him.
MATT RUBY: So much for ‘coming around’…
“These are stranger days, aren’t they? This time last year, Doom, your father, yourself and I would be relishing a Main Event like tonight,” Foley reminisces with a smile that isn’t returned. “I liked your pop, you know. He was a much better father than mine.”
“Low bar…” Destructo concurs cruelly.
MATT RUBY: Good one, kid!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: What the hell is wrong with him? That was unnecessarily cruel.
Foley nods. “You’re right, but he loved you, did Max. You need to try and hold onto that. Vengeance has a funny way of twisting your mind and in the end, it punishes you more than it ever helps.”
The Anti-Hero looks at him with bemusement. “What the fuck do you want, Foley? Does it look like I need your wisdom? Just stay out of my fucking way.”
They share a look that tells Felix he’s not welcome. He rises, walking to the door. With one hand on it, he’s prepared to close it behind him but stops.
“Scott Sterling was going to make you defend your tag titles against Doom and Nox at Thunderstrike,” he says with a lowered head. “So, I’ve offered to be your partner.”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Wow! Foley is gonna help Destructo defend his titles?
MATT RUBY: He can’t help but stick his nose in, can he?
The Puppetmaster leaves with that final statement, closing the door behind him on a furious Destructo. The Anti-Hero tosses the belt angrily away, leaning over to grimace at the news.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Coming up we have The Juggalo Hatchet taking on the Gastronomic Great Anton Savor in a non-title contest.
MATT RUBY: Both men are natural-born killers at the of the day, one created by the circumstances of Arcadia and the other motivated by the Corporation. Which killer will walk out victorious here tonight?
Referee Cole Holt calls for the bell and we’re underway The Juggalo is throwing lefts and rights at Anton Savor who bobs and weaves with expert precision. Hatchet sees an opening...
WIG SPLIT! GLASGOW KISS-STYLE HEADBUTT CRACKS SHARPLY OFF THE DOME OF THE CHEF SUPREME!
Savor staggers back bouncing off the ropes and...
ANOTHER WIG SPL... CREME BRULEE! SUPER-FUCKING-KICK TO THE POINT OF THE JAW OF THE JUGGALO CAUSING HIM TO CRUMBLE AT THE FEET OF THE CHEF SUPREME!
Savor peels Hatchet off the canvas but Hatchet springs to life scooping Anton Savor up onto his shoulders and...
SAVOR SLIPS OUT, SPINNING HATCHET UP ONTO HIS SHOULDERS AND NAILING THE GTS – THE FINAL COURSE LAYS OUT HATCHET AS SAVOR FALLS INTO THE COVER AND COLE SLIDES IN TO MAKE THE COUNT!
ONE!
...
TWO!
...
THREE!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Savor just proved positive why he is the Double Feature Champion!
MATT RUBY: My money says that he will have a long and fruitful reign as Champion!
Under the Glow of Fury
The camera opens on the dim streets outside the arena. The orange glow of riots in the distance casts eerie shadows against the cracked pavement, smoke swirling through the night air. Eclipse strides toward the entrance, her long coat trailing behind her, her expression calm but focused. She’s dressed for her match against Mister Sunshine, her dark makeup and sharp demeanor exuding confidence.
Her steps falter when she spots movement ahead.
Standing in the middle of the road is Wolf Fang Ayame, flanked by two wolves. Their silver fur glistens in the firelight, their glowing eyes fixed on Eclipse like prey. Ayame looks feral her hair wild, her skin streaked with dirt and blood, her eyes burning with primal fury.
Eclipse’s lips curl into a smirk, though unease flashes across her face.
“What’s this? A welcoming committee? Or did you crawl out of the woods to beg for mercy?”
One of the wolves growls, stepping forward. Eclipse stands her ground, glaring.
“Call them off, Ayame. I’m not in the mood for games.”
Ayame steps forward, her wolves moving in sync.
“No games, Eclipse. You’ve been taunting me, daring me to rise. Now here I am.”
Eclipse chuckles softly.
“Just as pathetic as I remember. All bark, no bite.”
A wolf lunges, snapping its jaws inches from Eclipse’s leg. She flinches, her smirk fading.
“ENOUGH!! If you’ve got something to say, say it!”
Ayame pulls a flaming arrow from her side and fires it. The flames roar behind Eclipse, casting her silhouette in an infernal glow.
“Face me in the Wolf’s Den. Just you and me.”
“You won’t survive me. I ACCEPT.”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: What the hell has Ayame become?
MATT RUBY: A total psycho. I love it.
The screen fades to black as the wolves howl.
Why, II
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Anestheria. Or what's left of it. Drewitt tore this place apart last week, didn't he?
MATT RUBY: No time to talk about that, a hot piece of ass just arrived on the scene.
Gemini and El Mariachi Muerte walk through destroyed parts of Anestheria, a look of despair on their faces as the denizens try to begin to rebuild.
"We need to talk to them," Gemini begins. "If we could sit them down, maybe we could talk everything out, couldn't we? Explain things to them?"
Muerte looks to Gemini, shaking his head. "I don't think it will matter, Gem. Look at the destruction, look at the anger... I'm not sure anything I can say to them will calm them down."
"How about the truth?" Gemini shoots back, turning to Muerte, hands on her hips.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: She has a point. We know why Drewitt took War to Anestheria, but we don't know why Muerte did what he did!
MATT RUBY: Gemini is as optimistic as she is hot. Overly optimistic, even.
There's a pause, Muerte not responding as Gemini cocks an eyebrow. "You know, you never explained to me either why you did what you did. They want answers... And I think I do too."
Muerte goes silent, not responding to Gemini. Instead, he simply shakes his head, beginning to walk away.
"Well?" Gemini asks, her question falling on deaf ears as Muerte refuses to answer.
Cut.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Two very unhinged individuals go head to head tonight as the Black Bride faces off against the scheming Sunshine. Both of these competitors used to be beloved but after the last few weeks...
MATT RUBY: Sunshine might be a psychopath BB but Eclipse just embraced her true self. Dark, crazy, hot for trot, the type of girl you don't bring home to mom but keep home all night long.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: You're an idiot and this match ain't gonna be pretty
The bell sounds as Eclipse immediately rushes forward, taking Sunshine by surprise with an enziguri to the back of the head that drops him down to one knee. Eclipse rolls backwards, kneeing him in the face before mounting him and pounding down with frenzied strikes that Sunshine is barely able to defend against. A hard headbutt rocks Sunshine before Eclipse swings upwards, locking her legs around his throat as she tries to choke him out with a legscissors.
MATT RUBY: That lucky asshole, it should be me those legs are wrapped around.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: She'd rip it off and you know it.
Cole Holt checks Sunshine, seeing if he wants to tap but Sunshine powers through, slowly getting to his feet with Eclipse still wrapped around his throat before lifting her up.
AND NEARLY POWERBOMBING HER THROUGH THE RING, BREAKING THE HOLD!
Sunshine staggers up, breathing hard and heavy as Eclipse slowly stumbles to her feet. Sunshine smiles before rushing forward
CATCH ME! The Running Crossbody wipes her out but Sunshine isn't done as he pulls her to her feet, locking in the Full Nelson, before lifting her up
WELCOME TO THE SUNSHINE CLUB! Eclipse gets snapped down to the mat face first, the Black Bride out as Sunshine hooks both legs. Holt sliding in to count the
ONE
..............
TWO
................
.................
THREE!!!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Very impressive victory there for Sunshine, overcoming a dangerous Eclipse to pick up the three count.
MATT RUBY: Damn shame it is BB, now hold on, lemme go see if Eclipse needs some mouth to mouth resuscitation.
Open Eyes, II
The ruins of the Red Light District—No Man’s Land—are silent, cloaked in an eerie stillness. Faded neon signs flicker weakly, their glow barely piercing the darkness.
MATT RUBY: Zeus has ordered no one be on the this level unless necessary!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Jackson Cade doesn’t give a damn what Zeus thinks.
Jackson Cade paces, shotgun resting on his shoulder, his shadow stretching across the broken pavement. The air is heavy, tense, waiting.
Flutter.
Gravedigger emerges from the gloom, cutting through the shadows like a specter. His voice is low, laced with mockery. “What do you want, Cade? Can’t let the dead rest, can you?”
Cade stops pacing, turning to face him, his jaw set with iron determination. “I only want two things from you,” he says, his voice steady, cold. “First? A match at Thunderstrike. Let’s settle it.”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I’m sure Scott Sterling will happily book this one!
MATT RUBY: Looks like Jacky’s ready to join Joey!
Gravedigger chuckles, taking slow, deliberate steps closer. “Thunderstrike, huh? You really think this ends with you standing tall?” His tone turns venomous, his words sharp. “Maybe you want your brother there too—oh wait, you can’t. I already took him to—”
WHAM! CADE DRIVES THE BUTT OF THE SHOTGUN INTO GRAVEDIGGER’S HEAD, DRIVING HIM TO A KNEE!
Gravedigger snarls, more shocked than hurt, but the cold barrel of the shotgun presses against his temple.
Cade leans in, voice low and venomous. “The second thing is what you're feeling now. Your eyes are wide open now too, Valkyrie. You’ve got the powers, the immortality—but you don’t know what it feels like yet. To have your brains splattered in the dirt and have to pick yourself up. Tombstone did. That’s why a Valkyrie’s no Ferryman.”
He lowers the shotgun, stepping back, leaving Gravedigger kneeling, rage smoldering in his eyes.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I’ve got the word. This match is on!
MATT RUBY: Gravedigger’s going to nip this Uprising in the bud.
Cade turns and walks away into the shadows, his resolve burning brighter than the fractured neon glow.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: We have a hell of a main event for you tonight. The OSW World Champion, Jasper Redgrave teams up with Klaus Way and Harold Attano to take on Felix Foley, Doom and Destructo in trios action!
MATT RUBY: Teams up? There’s no love at all between any of these teams BB. There’s bad blood everywhere you look.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I hate to admit when you’re right, but I agree. This one might come down to which team can get onto the same page.
Mills Stanton calls for the bell amidst bickering from both corners. Redgrave, Way and Attano each seem hell bent on starting first. Opposite them, Felix Foley pushes past Doom and Destructo to take the ring.
Foley storms across the ring, grabbing Klaus Way and pulling him into the center of the ring. He starts laying into Klaus way with a series of strikes, before flinging him towards the ropes.
THESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR - NO!
KLAUS NINJA ROLLS UNDER THE BIG BOOT, SPRINGBOARDING OFF THE ROPES!
SPRINGBOARD TORNADO DDT TAKES DOWN FELIX FOLEY!
Klaus Way kips up to his feet, turning to his corner with a self-impressed smirk.
MATT RUBY: You can’t start a match like that! Felix Foley didn’t give them a chance to work out who the legal man is, so he chose for himself.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: It looks like Mills Stanton is going to allow it. Saved him a decision really. But What a display of athleticism from Klaus Way. That look on his face, he’s really showing off his prowess in front of the other World Championship contenders.
Klaus turns, pulling Felix back to his feet and hoisting him into the air.
CIRQUE DOULEUR!
THE STORMBREAKER NAILS FOLEY!
AND KLAUS WAY POINTS HIS FINGER RIGHT TO ATTANO, CHALLENGING HIM!
The moments spent taunting his partner allows Foley to crawl his way towards the ropes. He is trying to pull himself to his feet when Klaus turns his attention back to him and reaches out to grab him.
BUT FOLEY DUCKS UNDER THE GRAB AND HOISTS KLAUS ONTO HIS SHOULDERS!
BUMPED HIS HEAD!
DEATH VALLEY DRIVER PLANTS KLAUS!
Foley, weathered by the onslaught, looks for a tag. Doom extends his hand, but Foley refuses to go for it. Glaring right in the mask of Doom, Foley slaps the unexpecting arm of Destructo and points to the inside of the ring.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Felix Foley refuses to tag in Doom, preferring to go for Destructo instead.
MATT RUBY: Destructo was expecting Doom to get the tag. Now he’s the legal man… he’d better get in there!
Destructo slips into the ring as Attano tags himself in for his team. Pushing a groggy Klaus Way out of the road, he meets Destructo toe-to-toe in the center of the ring. The pair lock horns and exchange a series of blows that result in a stalemate.
Attano resorts to plan b, driving knees to the sternum to soften Destructo up. Getting the upper hand, he breaks the hold for a split second…
HEADSHOT!
THE SUPERKICK CONNECTS, ROCKING DESTRUCTO!
BUT THE ANTI-HERO STAYS ON HIS FEET!
DIDN’T SEE IT COMING!
A BRUTAL HIDDEN BLADE ELBOW!
ATTANO DESTROYS DESTRUCTO WITH THAT!
He turns to his corner, holding his arms out to see if they’re entertained, before approaching a groggy Destructo, trying desperately to claw his way forward.
CODE OF SILENCE!
ATTANO IS GOING FOR THE BULLDOG CHOKE!
BUT HE CAN’T QUITE GET IT LOCKED IN… DESTRUCTO SQUIRMS OUT!
Destructo is crawling away from Attano, who stomps after him. Backing Destructo into a corner, he moves in for the kill.
BROKEN SCALES!
DESTRUCTO HITS THE SPINNING URANAGE OUTTA NOWHERE… DRIVING ATTANO BACK FIRST INTO THE BOTTOM TURNBUCKLE!
Foley is screaming at Destructo for a tag, but the Anti-Hero shakes him down. Slapping himself to shake off the cobwebs, he runs the ropes and comes charging back at Attano.
SHINING WIZARD… NO!
ATTANO SLIPS AWAY AND DESTRUCTO CRASHES INTO THE CORNER!
BRONCO BACKWOOD: Both men are down, advantage may go to who can get to their feet first.
MATT RUBY: Foley and Doom are both calling for Destructo to make a tag. But he’s too damned stubborn!
It is Destructo who reaches his feet first, pulling Attano the rest of the way to his vertical base too. Ignoring the outstretched hands from his corner, Destructo locks horns again and exchange clubbing blows. Right fist after right fist hits home, with neither man really looking to defend himself.
Attano nails Destructo with a right fist right to the nose and the Anti-Hero staggers backwards. Attano rushes him with a Clothesline that knocks him backwards into his own corner. Doom reaches over the ropes and slaps Destructo right in the face, before stepping into the ring.
MATT RUBY: Well, that’s one way to tag yourself in when your partner is being a punk kid.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: It looks like Mills Stanton is going to allow it. And Attano desperately needs to find a tag of his own.
Attano staggers over to his corner, where Klaus Way is waiting. He reaches out to make the tag…
But Klaus Way drops off the apron and Attano hits nothing but air. Doom comes charging across after him.
THE SPLITTER!
THE GORE RIGHT TO ATTANO… RIGHT INTO THE TURNBUCKLE!
ATTANO’S HAND DRAPES OUT OVER THE ROPE LIFELESSLY AND JASPER REDGRAVE SLAPS IT!
As Attano slumps to the ground, Redgrave makes his way into the ring. Doom is still focused on Attano and doesn’t know the tag has been made. He spins Doom around.
SYMPHONY OF SYMMETRY!
THE PEDIGREE PLANTS DOOM!
AND JASPER REDGRAVE LOCKS EYES WITH KLAUS WAY AT RINGSIDE!
HE PULLS DOOM TO HIS FEET… ONTO HIS SHOULDERS!
VANISHING POINT!
THE CRUCIFIX POWERBOMB TO THE CORNER… RIGHT ONTO ATTANO!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: What a display from Redgrave!
MATT RUBY: Look at the shiteating grin on his face, he wants to make damned sure his partners know what he’s capable of.
Jasper pulls Doom free of the wreckage in the corner, slapping Attano across the face to rouse him and telling him to watch. He pulls Doom to his feet and squares up in full view of his teammates.
THE BRUSH STROKE!
NO!
DOOM GRABS REGRAVE BY THE THROAT!
A SECOND HAND, HE LIFTS REDGRAVE OFF THE GROUND!
THE HANDS OF DOOM… CHOKING REDGRAVE OUT!
Redgrave flails about, looking for an advantage. Klaus climbs back onto the apron, as Attano pulls himself to his feet. Redgrave is fading, his flailing legs falling still, just at Attano crashes into Doom, blindsiding him and causing him to drop the Champion.
Redgrave crumples to a heap as Doom goes skidding. Stanton orders Attano to the apron, and both he and Way call for the tag…
But Redgrave has no intention of tagging anybody in.
He pulls himself to his feet as Doom rises to his.
HOVER, NO BOTHER!
DOOM LEVITATES… AIMING A KICK TO THE HEAD!
SUPERKICK FROM REDGRAVE TO A LEVITATING DOOM!
DOOM GOES FLYING HIGH INTO THE AIR BEFORE CRASH LANDING, AND REDGRAVE STAGGERS BACK INTO HIS OWN TURNBUCKLE…
WHERE KLAUS WAY TAGS HIMSELF IN!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Jasper’s ego is unmatched. But Klaus Way’s might rival it.
MATT RUBY: These two can’t get along. Nobody here can. These two teams are set to breaking point.
Doom rises to his feet, with Destructo calling for the tag. Doom turns his back on him and stalks back across the ring, but Destructo isn’t having it. He sneaks inside and grabs Doom.
The pair lock up and start exchanging blows!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: That’s your own damned partner!
MATT RUBY: It was only a matter of time.
Attano and Foley make a beeline for each other, locking horns as Klaus Way charges in, Dropkicking Destructo out of the way. He grabs Doom by the head, twisting him around into position…
BIZARRO!
HE RUNS THE TURNBUCKLE AND PLANTS DOOM IN AN UNPRETTIER!
THERE’S THE PIN!
ONE!
…
…
TWO!
…
…
THREE!
IT’S OVER!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Klaus Way seals the win for his team of individuals. But the victory was only taken as Destructo’s team imploded.
MATT RUBY: Destructo cost his team the match. Doom is definitely going to have words, when he comes to.
Stranger Days III
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: What a brutally chaotic match!
MATT RUBY: And we’re not finished yet.
Within moments of the match ending, Damien Solus and Ajax The Adonis are making a b-line for the ring. They slide in, Ajax clobbering Doom with a thunderous Clothesline, knocking him over the top rope.
Solus meanwhile checks on Klaus, who gets back to his feet.
BUT HERE COMES ATTANO AND REDGRAVE!
Attano nails Klaus and Solus with a Double Clothesline as Redgrave pummels Ajax back into the corner. He yells to Attano who nods, watching as The Adonis is whipped in his direction…
SHOTGUN DROPKICK TO THE KNEES!
THE KNEE CAP!
The World Champion rushes over to the kneeling Strongman, pulling his giant frame under and between his legs…
THE PEDIGREE!
SYMPHONY OF SYMMETRY
Solus quickly attacks a kneeling Jasper, but Attano drags him away…
CODE OF SILENCE!
BULLDOG CHOKE TO DAMIEN SOLUS!
Nobody chokes the fucking life outta him!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I can’t believe this! They’re working together… and where’s Klaus?
MATT RUBY: He’s making a hasty retreat up the entrance ramp!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: And there goes Redgrave in hot pursuit!
As Klaus stumbles away, The World Champion gives chase, followed shortly by Harold Attano who likewise wants a piece of the Wild Card.
Back in the ring and Destructo has risen.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: BEHIND YOU! BEHIND YOU!
IT’S NOX!
GALLOWS POLE TO DESTRUCTO!
REVERSE FULL NELSON BOMB!!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: That son of a bitch!!
MATT RUBY: And where’s your precious Felix Foley now, huh?
Doom re-enters the ring now, The Corporation looming over a squirming Destructo. The Scientist backs up, preparing his boot..
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Don’t you do it! He’s gonna punt him, Ruby!
MATT RUBY: PUNT HIM RIGHT IN THE MEATBALL, DOOM!
RUNNING PUNT KICK!
BREAKING THE JARRRRRR!!!
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
STEEL CHAIR TO THE SKULL BY FELIX FOLEY!!
DOWN GOES DOOM IN MID CHARGE!
NOX STORMS AT HIM!
BOOM!
STEEL CHAIR SHOT TO NOX FOR GOOD FUCKING MEASURE!
“YEAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!”
The fans roar!
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: GET EM FELIX!
Doom and Nox wisely roll out of the ring to safety as Felix stands tall in the middle of it, steel chair in hand. Destructo slowly gets back to his feet, looking towards Foley with a snarl.
“I don’t need your fucking help!” He screams at him.
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: Don’t be ungrateful, kid! That man just saved your butt. What’s with him now?
MATT RUBY: It’s quite clear he doesn’t want Foley’s help, that’s for sure.
Foley shrugs.
STEEL CHAIR TO THE SKULL OF DESTRUCTO!
FOLEY NAILS THE FUCKING ANT-HERO WITH A CHAIR SHOT THAT CLEANS HIS FUCKING CLOCK!
MATT RUBY: HA! GET HIM FOLEY! Maybe I was wrong about you.
The fans don’t know what to make of it. Foley shrugs his shoulders and throws the chair down on the canvas, mouthing the words…
“I tried…”
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: It looks like The Puppetmaster is done taking crap, folks!
MATT RUBY: How’re they gonna team up at Thunderstrike now?
BRONCO BLACKWOOD: I don’t know but next week, live in Olympus, Destructo teams with Felix Foley to defend his tag team titles against The Corporation and Jasper Redgrave defends his world title against Klaus Way and Harold Attano!
MATT RUBY: You don’t wanna miss it!
Static.
A Stop ■ symbol appears in the bottom right hand corner of the screen as we fade to black.
Cut.