Scarlett
[Cold Open.]
[INT. THE TEMPLE — LOCKER ROOM — NIGHT.]
[Edward Newton stands alone with a phone pressed to his ear. His other hand rests against the wall. Not for support. To keep himself still.]
Luke Storm: “I’m close.”
Edward Newton: “Then stop.”
Luke Storm: “Not fucking happening.”
Edward Newton: “Luke, listen to me.”
[Newton closes his eyes.]
Edward Newton: “Cube expects you to rush in. Every door you kick down gives him another opportunity to move Scarlett.”
Luke Storm: “You heard her, Eddie. She called for us.”
Edward Newton: “Which is precisely why you need to follow my instructions.”
Luke Storm: “She called for her father.”
[Newton’s jaw tightens.]
Luke Storm: “I’m done sitting around while you solve puzzles.”
Edward Newton: “This is not a puzzle!”
[Silence.]
[Newton catches himself.]
[His voice lowers.]
Edward Newton: “Cube has already warned us what happens if we interfere.”
Luke Storm: “Yeah? And what happens if we don’t?”
[Newton has no answer.]
Luke Storm: “I’m going to find him.”
Edward Newton: “And when you do?”
Luke Storm: “I’ll end the son of a bitch.”
Edward Newton: “No. You will contact me and wait.”
Luke Storm: “You keep waiting. I’ll keep looking.”
Edward Newton: “Luke—”
Luke Storm: “Fix it, Eddie. Because I’m not waiting around anymore.”
[The call ends.]
[Newton slowly lowers the phone.]
[He looks at the screen.]
[Call ended.]
[His reflection stares back at him.]
[Frustrated.]
[Afraid.]
[Out of control.]
Edward Newton: “Idiot.”
[A beat.]
[He immediately begins dialing again.]
[Cut.]
VHS: Hostage I
[Cold Open.]
[The camera fades in on darkness. The faint buzz of a single fluorescent tube flickers overhead. Water drips somewhere in the distance. The image slowly sharpens.]
[Darkwish is tied to a steel chair.]
[His wrists bound tightly behind his back.]
[A thick leather dog collar is buckled around his neck.]
[A heavy chain runs from it to the floor.]
[His mask is torn.]
[His gear hangs in tatters.]
[Blood stains the fabric.]
[One eye is swollen nearly shut beneath the ripped mask.]
[His breathing is laboured.]
Signal: "Oh my God..."
Black Scar: "Looks like Darkwish finally found himself on the wrong end of an interrogation."
[Standing over him...]
[Jack Standard.]
[Knuckle dusters wrapped around both fists.]
[Fresh blood glistens across the steel.]
[Academius slowly circles the chair behind Darkwish.]
[Hands clasped behind his back.]
[Like a teacher inspecting a failed student.]
Academius: "I should have seen it sooner."
[A pause.]
Academius: "The bodies."
[He continues circling.]
Academius: "The letters."
[Another step.]
Academius: "The accusations."
[He stops directly in front of Darkwish.]
Academius: "You weren't hunting us."
[A beat.]
Academius: "You were framing us."
[Darkwish spits blood onto the floor.]
[His voice is weak.]
[Ragged.]
Darkwish: "I'd..."
[He coughs.]
Darkwish: "Never..."
[Another cough.]
Darkwish: "Do it...."
[Jack suddenly grabs him by the jaw.]
[Forcing his head upright.]
[The knuckle dusters dig into Darkwish's face.]
Jack Standard: "Liar."
[He squeezes harder.]
Jack Standard: "Let's stop wasting time."
[He looks toward Academius.]
Jack Standard: "Let's take his mask or take his life."
[Academius looks thoughtfully at Darkwish.]
[Almost disappointed.]
[Then slowly shakes his head.]
Academius: "No."
[A long pause.]
Academius: "Lessons are worthless..."
[He leans down until they're eye to eye.]
Academius: "Unless someone is there to learn from them."
[He straightens his jacket.]
Academius: "We're going to make an example of you first."
[Darkwish glares back despite the blood running down his face.]
[He says nothing.]
[The camera slowly pulls away.]
[Leaving him chained...]
[Battered...]
[Waiting for whatever lesson DEMASQ has planned.]
[Cut.]
Black Scar: “It’s a good job Molvanîa has free healthcare, ‘cos both these Hardcore match competitors are gonna need it!”
Signal: “Will Dr. Vinell extract a win from The Candy Man, or will the doctor get a taste of his own medicine!?”
[Torturous toys litter the ringside. Vinell ducks behind Candy and applies a waistlock, but the 300-pounder rams him backwards into the corner!]
[Candy grabs a wooden door and props it against the Doc. He backs up and gathers steam…]
Signal: “When one door closes, Scar–”
[CRUNCH!]
[SUGAR CRASH BREAKS THE DOOR OVER VINELL WITH A CORNER SPLASH!]
[Vinell slumps down against the bottom turnbuckle. Candy looks upwards, asking for mommy’s guidance.]
Black Scar: “This guy is an absolute fruit-loop, Sig!”
[Candy charges in with a hip attack…]
[But a DROP TOE-HOLD by Vinell sends him face-first into the middle turnbuckle!]
[The Good Doctor grabs a bowling ball–]
Signal: “I don’t think he’s practicing his hook, Scar!”
[He measures the approach and releases the ball…]
[LOW BLOW WITH THE BOWLING BALL!]
Black Scar: “STRIIIKE!”
[Candy rolls on the mat and kicks his feet in agony!]
[Vinell grabs a fistful of MOUSE TRAPS and sets them up. What the hell is he planning!?]
[He waits for Candy to rise, but the brawler’s equilibrium is off-kilter…]
[The sawbones grabs him–]
Black Scar: “Candy suckers him in!”
[TILT-A-WHIRL SLAM!]
Signal: “THE BIG WHIRLY ONTO THE MOUSE TRAPS!”
[SNAP, SNAP, SNAP!]
[Candy covers a trap-covered Vinell.]
[ONE!]
[TWO!]
[SHOULDER UP!]
[A frustrated Candy produces a tiny bag…]
Black Scar: “Uh-oh - we’ve seen this before!”
[Unbeknownst to him, however, Vinell also has something up his white sleeve.]
[They stand and turn–]
[SUGAR RUSH!]
[OCULAR ASSAULT!]
[THEY THROW POWDERED SUGAR AND A MYSTERIOUS SUBSTANCE INTO EACH OTHER’S EYES!]
Signal: “Both men are BLIND!”
[Swinging wildly and missing, they collapse and reach for the nearest objects…]
Black Scar: “Candy’s got a COOKIE JAR, and Vinell has a… BEDPAN!?”
[They both turn once more–]
[SMASH!]
[Candy Butcher shatters the cookie jar over Vinell’s head!]
[ONE!]
[TWO!]
[THREE!]
Signal: “This victory must taste all the sweeter for The Candy Man!”
Winner: Candy Man
Man on a Mission
[As the bell rings and the ring clears we are left with Dr. E Vinell who rolls quickly to ringside.]
Signal: "Looks like the Doctor is trying to high tail it out of here, Scar."
Black Scar: "Wouldn't you? He's made an enemy of OSW's most Motivated Man. All hundred pounds of him."
[TURN YOUR LIFE AROUND! SLINGBLADE BY ZIGGY ROBBINS!]
[Ziggy doesn't relent for a moment, laying into Vinell with stomp after stomp as the Doctor futilely tries to crawl away!]
Ziggy Robbins: "Give!"
[STOMP!]
Ziggy Robbins: "My!"
[STOMP!]
Ziggy Robbins: "Brother!"
[STOMP!]
Ziggy Robbins: "Back!"
[STOMP! STOMP! STOMP!]
Signal: "By God he's going to kill him!"
Black Scar: "He brought it on himself, Sig! Ziggy is a man on a mission tonight!"
[The assault from Robbins drives Vinell back into the steel steps! Ziggy looms over him, a microphone in his hand.]
Ziggy Robbins: "You're going to make him better... Then you're going to set him free. Do you understand me? Do you!?"
[Vinell looks up at Ziggy, chest rising as he begins to laugh. A slow chuckle that builds into a booming, demented cackle!]
Dr. E. Vinell: "I've already made him better! He was the perfect guinea pig. A stepping stone towards my magnum opus!"
[The Doctor leans towards Ziggy, a smirk beneath his mask.]
Dr. E. Vinell: "If you want him, then come get him."
[BANG!]
[FLASHBANG BY VINELL! ROBBINS IS BLINDED AND THE DOCTOR SCRAMBLES UP THE ENTRANCE RAMP!]
[The crowd boos his cowardice as he disappears.]
[Yet Robbins stands unshaken.]
[More motivated than ever.]
[Cut.]
The Hollow
[INT. ARCADE ROOM — NIGHT.]
[The room is darker than usual. Only one cabinet is powered. Its screen pulses an angry crimson. Respawn stands before it, hands clasped behind his back like an artist admiring a masterpiece.]
[PixelShift slowly approaches.]
Signal: "Respawn said he had Mars' new level ready..."
Black Scar: "Judging by the colour scheme, I don't think it's CandyCrusher."
[The cabinet whines.]
[The title fades into view.]
ASYLUM.EXE
[The screen glitches.]
[For a split second, a padded cell appears.]
[Then a blood-soaked corridor.]
[Then a wheelchair rolling by itself.]
[The lights in the arcade room flicker in time with the images.]
Pixelshift: "Respawn..."
[A beat.]
Pixelshift: "What is this?"
[Respawn smiles proudly.]
Respawn: "His level."
[He gently pats the side of the cabinet.]
Respawn:"Mars wanted bigger."
[A pause.]
Respawn: "Badder."
[The screen flashes again.]
[Straight jackets.]
[Surgical tables.]
[Shadows moving behind reinforced glass.]
Respawn: "He's getting exactly what he asked for."
[PixelShift stares at the screen.]
[His confidence drains.]
Pixelshift:"No..."
[He takes a step backwards.]
Pixelshift: "This isn't a level."
[A beat.]
Pixelshift: "It's a nightmare."
[Respawn says nothing.]
Pixelshift: "But..."
[His voice falters.]
Pixelshift: "It's a threat to me too."
[He looks desperately at Respawn.]
Pixelshift: "If I go in there..."
[A pause.]
Pixelshift: "I'm not sure I'll come back out."
[Respawn folds his arms.]
[Unmoved.]
Pixelshift: "Please."
[A beat.]
Pixelshift: "Change it. This is too much. Make something else, okay? Please... reconsider."
[Respawn slowly shakes his head.]
Respawn: "Beta testing doesn't work if there's no risk."
[The cabinet emits a distorted scream.]
Respawn: "Fear is just another mechanic."
[He presses a key.]
[The Asylum's iron doors slowly creak open on the screen.]
Respawn: "Welcome to the next level."
[PixelShift can only stare.]
[For the first time...]
[He isn't excited to play.]
We'll Always Have Paris
[Previously Recorded.]
[EXT. PARIS, FRANCE - DAYTIME]
[Paris. City of lovers. Street cafes, street performers. The Eiffel Tower in the background. Everything is warm, romantic.]
[Here, we see Glitter and Dolly walking, hand in hand.]
[Dolly is skipping along, barely able to hold her excitement.]
Dolly Daydream: “Glitter! Look! I’ve never seen anything like this!”
[She points to the Eiffel Tower.]
Dolly Daydream: “It’s so… big! Now I know why they call it an eyeful.”
[Glitter smiles. Not to Dolly, to themself.]
[Glitter motions towards a bench beside the River Seine. They move to sit together.]
Glitter: “You asked and Glitter brought your dreams to you.”
[Her exuberance has caught the attention of a Frenchman, who ambles over.]
Frenchman: “Come vis me?”
[He extends a hand to Dolly, ignoring Glitter entirely.]
[Dolly merely blinks.]
Dolly Daydream: “Come where?”
Frenchman: “Chez moi?”
[Dolly looks blank. Glitter does not.]
Dolly Daydream: “Show you what?”
Glitter: “Not show you… Chez… Nevermind.”
[Glitter stands, eyeballing the man before pushing him into the river.]
Glitter: “Now, where were we?”
[The energy slows. Dolly looks up at Glitter, a sparkle in her eyes.]
Dolly Daydream: “Thanks… Thanks for bringing me.”
[Glitter brushes the sentiment off slightly.]
Glitter: “You deserve it.”
[A beat. Glitter looks out towards the French backdrop, ignoring the French cries for help from the river below.]
Glitter: “Nobody else would have.”
[Dolly frowns. Glitter continues gently, turning back towards her.]
Glitter: "Who believed in you? Helped you become champion and defended you? Who stood beside you every week?"
[Dolly’s voice is but a whisper.]
Dolly Daydream: “You..."
[Glitter smiles, nodding.]
Glitter: "Glitter doesn’t ask for much. Just honesty, appreciation. Just knowing that... after everything Glitter has done for you…”
[Glitter draws right in to Dolly.]
Glitter: "...you won't leave me too."
[Panic sets into the eyes of Dolly. She blubbers.]
Dolly Daydream: "I-I'd never leave you!"
[She grabs Glitter's hands. Almost desperate.]
Dolly Daydream: “I promise!"
[Glitter smiles.]
Glitter: “I know. Glitter just needed to hear you say it."
[Glitter produces a small box from their pocket. They flip open the lid.]
[A glittering bracelet sparkles before Dolly. Shining with a pendant charm of the Eiffel tower.]
Glitter: “I want you to remember this. Treasure it as you treasure me. Remember your promise.”
[Glitter fastens the bracelet on Dolly’s wrist. Dolly beams.]
Dolly Daydream: “Oh, thank you. Thank you. I love it!”
[Across the river, unbeknown to Dolly and Glitter, the colour begins to fade from the French backdrop.]
[Cut.]
Signal: “Hot off a massive victory at Maskageddon last week, can Ziggy Robbins continue to ride the train of success.”
Black Scar: “Judging from the mere size of what stands across from him, I’d say that train is about to be derailed.”
[Padre Venganza is quick to size up Ziggy Robbins, as Jurassic Colossus squares off against Warlord Mars. Colossus unloads a massive right hand but MARS SIMPLY EATS IT!]
[COLOSSUS ROARS IN THE FACE OF MARS! BUT MARS MERELY ROARS RIGHT BACK!]
[MASSIVE BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX FROM MARS!]
Signal: “I don’t think Colossus is used to being outpowered. Mars barely flinched!”
[Padre Venganza moves to grab Ziggy, but Robbins skirts out of the way. He’s mid way through talking himself out of danger when Padre catches up with him.]
[BLUNT FORCE TRAUMA! LEAPING SIDEKICK SILENCES ROBBINS!]
[And suddenly, Venganza finds himself eyeball to eyeball with Warlord Mars.]
Black Scar: “Somebody’s about to get hurt real bad.”
[Venganza attacks first, clobbering Mars with Throat Thrust that catches Mars unawares.]
[STO! MIDNIGHT SHAD-NO! MARS PUSHES VENGANZA BACK INTO THE ROPES!]
[VENGANZA REBOUNDS BACK… RIGHT INTO A RUNNING HEADBUTT FROM MARS!]
[Warlord Mars stands atop the destruction like a… Warlord.]
[Only for a moment though, before Ziggy Robbins rolls him up from behind.]
[ONE!]
[TWO!]
[NO!]
Signal: “Warlord Mars was looking every bit the force we’ve come to expect of him. And Ziggy Robbins very nearly pulled the rug out from underneath him.”
Black Scar: “You don’t get points for nearly, Sig. Now Robbins has better run.”
[Mars picks Ziggy up from the scruff of the neck, holding him above his head in a towering Chokehold.]
[He watches as Ziggy squirms, his legs slowly flailing less and less.]
[Until he’s cut down at the knee. Jurassic Colossus takes down Warlord Mars!]
[COLOSSUS CATCHES ZIGGY!]
[WHEELBARROW FACEBUSTER! SHARPTOOTH SHATTER!]
[AND JURASSIC COLOSSUS COVERS FOR THE PIN!]
[ONE!]
[TW-NO!]
[WARLORD MARS KICKS ZIGGY RIGHT IN THE TEMPLE AND SENDS HIM FLYING!]
Signal: “Well, he just got his bell rung!”
[MARS HOISTS COLOSSUS UP!]
[TORTURE RACK! WAR MACHINE!]
[HERE COMES THE POWERBOMB!]
Black Scar: “Count to a hundred, he’s done!”
[ONE!]
[TWO!]
[THREE!]
Signal: “Warlord Mars picks up the victory and proves that size does matter.”
Winner: Warlord Mars
Please...
[Ringside — moments after the match. Warlord Mars stands in the ring. Sweat pours from his body. His chest rises and falls like a beast catching its breath.]
Signal: "Another war won by Warlord Mars."
Black Scar: "Big meaty man keeps stackin' bodies."
["PRESS START" echoes through the Temple.]
[PixelShift walks onto the stage.]
[Microphone in hand.]
[No smile.]
[No jokes.]
[Only concern.]
Signal: "PixelShift..."
Black Scar: "Kid oughta turn around."
[PixelShift slowly enters the ring.]
[Keeping his distance.]
Pixelshift:"Mars..."
[A pause.]
Pixelshift: "Listen."
[Mars snorts.]
Warlord Mars: "Whatchu want now, Pixel-PUKE?!"
[PixelShift points toward the entrance.]
Pixelshift: "The Hollow..."
[A beat.]
Pixelshift: "Respawn built it. I've seen it."
[His voice becomes more serious.]
Pixelshift: "It's not a game."
[A pause.]
Pixelshift: "It's wrong."
[The crowd quietens.]
Pixelshift: "That place..."
[A beat.]
Pixelshift: "Terrified me."
[Mars bursts into laughter.]
Warlord Mars: "YOU?!"
[He points.]
Warlord Mars: "You're scared of EVERYTHING!"
[PixelShift shakes his head.]
Pixelshift: "No..."
[A pause.]
Pixelshift: "I'm scared for you."
[Mars' grin disappears.]
Pixelshift: "Whatever's inside that level..."
[A beat.]
Pixelshift: "It'll change us.. please... Don't go in there."
[Silence.]
[Mars stares at him.]
[Then suddenly...]
[GRABS HIM BY THE THROAT.]
Signal: "MARS!"
[PixelShift drops the microphone.]
[Mars lifts him effortlessly.]
Warlord Mars: "You STILL don't get it!"
[He drags PixelShift toward the ropes.]
Warlord Mars: "I AIN'T AFRAID OF NO DAMN GAME!"
[PixelShift struggles.]
[Mars hauls him over his shoulder.]
Warlord Mars: "Matter o' fact..."
[A savage grin spreads across his face.]
Warlord Mars: "It's time..."
[He stomps toward the entrance.]
Warlord Mars: "TO PLAY THE GAME!"
[Mars disappears backstage carrying PixelShift like prey.]
Signal: "He's taking him!"
Black Scar: "Straight to The Hollow..."
Signal: "God help them both."
[Cut.]
Sweet Tooth
[Passionate fans purchase refreshments and merchandise in The Temple’s concourse.]
[Stomp! Stomp! Stomp!]
[Turning and looking as one, they gasp—]
[Emerging from the locker rooms is The Jurassic Colossus!]
[Deciding that autographs and selfies are too risky, the panicked fans flee!]
[Accustomed to clearing the room, the unfazed Last Dinosaur approaches a concession stand.]
Jurassic Colossus: “Tired of raw meat… Give me sssomething ssssweet!”
[The awestruck kiosk worker prepares and presents some cotton candy!]
Jurassic Colossus: “Thanksss!”
[Jurassic’s forked tongue flickers—]
[WHAM!]
[WHAT THE—!?]
[THE CANDY MAN TAKES HIM OUT!]
[Standing over Colossus, the 300-pound Sugar Crash holds the candy floss aloft.]
The Candy Man: “I was looking in the wrong places, Mommy. It’s obvious to me now. Who else could know where my stash is!? Of course it has to be you! After all, nobody has a bigger sweet tooth than you!”
[Candy licks the pink confectionary.]
The Candy Man: “WHERE IS IT!?”
[A downed Jurassic growls.]
Jurassic Colossus: “Where’s what!?”
[Candy rages.]
The Candy Man: “DON’T PLAY DUMB WITH US!”
[HE STOMPS A MUDHOLE IN COLOSSUS!]
The Candy Man: “NOBODY CARES!”
[Candy relents, sobbing.]
The Candy Man: “I’m trying!”
[Holding his ribs, Jurassic groans.]
Jurassic Colossus: “You’re f-fucked in the head… I’m gonna p-pull your gutsss out!”
[Sniffling, Candy wipes his nose on the back of his hand.]
The Candy Man: “You’re right, Mommy - he’s left us no choice!”
[The Candy Man reaches into his pocket…]
[AND PULLS OUT A SET OF PLIERS!]
[NO—!]
[CANDY MAN FORCES THE LAST DINOSAUR’S MANDIBLES OPEN—]
[HE GRIPS ONE OF HIS FANGS WITH THE PLIERS!]
[COLOSSUS THRASHES AND WAILS AS CANDY WRENCHES!]
[…]
[CRUNCH!]
Jurassic Colossus: “AAAAARRRRGGGHH!”
[CANDY MAN RIPS HIS FUCKING TOOTH OUT!]
[Colossus writhes in agony, spitting a mouthful of blood onto the floor! Examining his trophy, Candy smiles, revealing his own rotten teeth.]
The Candy Man: “He bit off more than he could chew, Mommy.”
[Giggling, The Candy Man pockets the tooth and leaves Jurassic nursing his mouth.]
Signal: Big time trios action here tonight as Silas, Deadeye and Blackhand Moretti do battle against Santiago Siniestro, Glitter and Rambro.
Black Scar: No love lost between any of these men here tonight Siggie, three stories interwoven and this should be a non stop war.
[The bell sounds as there's no tags, nor starting competitors. All six men rush forward, rights and lefts flying every which way as the ruleador tries unsucessfully to get some order.]
[Blackhand nearly taking Rambro's head off with a massive Omerta sized Big Boot.]
[Glitter rocking Silas with a hard slap to the jaw but the Sorrow slips out of the BallsPlex, clipping Glitter around the back of the head with a Pele Kick rocking the Sinful One.]
[BOOMSTICK! Brutal Superman Punch out of nowhere rocks Glitter, sending him stumbling through the ropes to the floor below. Deadeye turns,]
[Superkick by Siniestro! Right on the button sending Deadeye to the outside himself. Blackhand and Rambro quickly follow as they brawl through the ropes, each landing heavy blow after heavy blow without stopping.]
[Santiago watches, quickly heading up to the top before diving off. ]
Signal: HE'S FEELING FROGGY SCAR! Frogsplash style Crossbody wipes out everyone at ringside, but wait? What is Silas doing?
[The Sorrow not about to be outdone, is up on the top rope himself, looking back as everyone slowly stands]
[SUCH GREAT HEIGHTS! SPRINGBOARD TRUST FALL PLANCHA WIPING OUT EVERYONE AT RINGSIDE!]
[The crowd cheer as Silas pulls Glitter up to his feet, throwing him back into the ring. Glitter stumbles to his feet in the corner, pulling himself up right into]
[A TASTE OF INK! Brutal Kick to the jaw rocks Glitter, that well could be it but Silas doesn't cover, instead looking to the corner and his placed guitar.]
Black Scar: The Sorrow looking to disintegrate Glitter here.
[Silas walks over, picking up his guitar but as he turns around,]
[BUKKAKE BULLET TRAIN! Brutal Big Boot sends the guitar slamming into Silas's face, Glitter rubbing his foot into the Sorrow's face with a look of bliss on his face. But that look is quickly erased as he turns.]
[AND SLEEPS WIT' THE FISHES! CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL TURNS GLITTER INSIDE OUT!]
[Blackhand doesn't get to cover as he's dropped like a shot from a NAPALM ELBOW right to the base of the neck. Rambro breathing hard as he's whipped around]
[BOOMSTICK! Another Superman Punch hits right on the button, Rambro collapses to the mat as Deadeye covers,]
[ONE]
[............]
[..........]
[TWO]
[.........]
[SANTIAGO IS ON THE TURNBUCKLES]
[HERMOSA RUIDA! FROG SPLASH]
Signal: Santiago nails Deadeye with that Frog Splash out of nowhere, as he pulls Rambro over Deadeye
[the ruleador slides back down]
[ONE]
[...........]
[TWO]
[............]
[..............]
[THREE!!!]
Black Scar: Absolute chaos here in this trios contest as the team of Santiago Siniestro, Rambro and Glitter pick up the victory here tonight.
Winner: Rambro, Glitter & Siniestro
Soul Thief
[INT. UNKNOWN LOCATION]
[Del Toro kneels before a stone altar. Around him, hundreds of candles burn to illuminate a crypt of some description, carved out of rock. Underground.]
[Behind Del Toro, several spectral figure float. Remnants of souls he’s claimed.]
[From outside, we hear what he has been expecting.]
[The rumble of the Pale Rider coming to a halt.]
[Footsteps.]
[Then he is joined.]
Mr Grimm: “I know you’ve been expecting me. I wasn’t exactly subtle.”
[Del Toro swishes his cape to turn and face The Pale Rider.]
Santiago Del Toro: “Come to collect?”
[Grimm nods. He points towards the figures floating behind Del Toro.]
Mr Grimm: “You are a thief of souls. I’ve come to collect what is rightfully mine.”
[He steps forward. As he does so, the attention of all of the spectral beings turns towards him. All eyes are trained on The Reaper.]
Mr Grimm: “I’m taking them back. The easy way, or the hard way, that much is up to you.”
[Del Toro’s laugh echoes off the rock walls of the crypt.]
Santiago Del Toro: "If you want them, you will have to claim my soul in the process.”
[Grimm cracks his knuckles.]
Mr Grimm: “Hard way it is then.”
[He moves towards Del Toro, but the dozen spectral beings that gather behind The Soul Thief soar into the air.]
[Shrieking wildly, the very walls of the crypt seem to hum with an unknown power.]
[Mr Grimm stops, feeling the power of the stolen souls. His fist reluctantly unballs.]
Mr Grimm: “Ring of Dreams. I’m taking back that title which is rightfully mine. And I’m collecting the souls that you have stolen.”
[Grimm throws a glove on the ground before the stone altar.]
Mr Grimm: “No parlour tricks. Mano e mano. Claiming your soul will merely be icing on the cake.”
[Cut.]
VHS: Hostage II
[Later that night. The camera fades in on a dimly lit storage room. Steel bars dominate the frame. A makeshift holding cage.]
[Inside...]
[Darkwish.]
[Still wearing the heavy leather dog collar.]
[The chain attached to it rattles as he slowly gets to his feet.]
[His face is bloodied.]
[His gear hangs in tatters.]
[Every movement is painful.]
Signal: "They've kept him caged..."
Black Scar: "Like an animal."
[Footsteps echo. Academius and Jack Standard approach. Standard unlocks the cage. The steel door groans open. Darkwish immediately lunges.]
[Jack catches him with a knee to the ribs.]
[Darkwish doubles over.]
[Together, Standard and Academius drag him from the cage by the chain around his neck.]
[Darkwish coughs violently.]
[Academius straightens his jacket.]
[Calm as ever.]
Academius: "You've had time to reflect."
[A pause.]
Academius: "Time to consider your actions."
[Darkwish glares back.]
[Defiant.]
[Academius nods toward Jack Standard.]
Academius: "Here's your lesson."
[A beat.]
Academius: "If you can defeat Mr. Standard..."
[He allows the words to settle.]
Academius: "We'll release you."
[Darkwish slowly rises to his feet.]
[Still breathing heavily.]
Darkwish: "And if I don't?"
[Jack smirks.]
[Flexing the chain attached to Darkwish's collar.]
Jack Standard: "Then you stay on the leash."
Signal: "This is sick..."
Black Scar: "It's also official."
[Academius steps aside.]
[Leaving the two men facing one another.]
Academius: "You wanted the truth, Darkwish."
[A pause.]
Academius: "Earn your freedom."
[Jack removes his jacket.]
[Cracks his neck.]
[Darkwish wipes blood from his mouth.]
[Never taking his eyes off Standard.]
[An official cautiously steps into frame.]
[Looking between both men.]
Signal: "They're not waiting..."
Black Scar: "They're doing it right now!"
[The official signals for the bell.]
Signal: "It's a Dog Collar Match!"
[The chain between Darkwish and Jack Standard goes taut.]
[Neither man moves.]
[Waiting.]
[The bell rings.]
Signal: “We need to get Molvanîa PD, some security, or, hell, even a damn Ruleador to where they are!”
Black Scar: “Somebody check every dog pound in Molvanîa!”
[A battered Darkwish tugs at the leather collar fastened around his neck–]
[Standard floors him with a boot to the face!]
Jack Standard: “Bad dog!”
Black Scar: “Now rub his nose in it!”
[The sadistic second-half of DEMASQ lays into the vigilante with punches and kicks. He grabs a fistful of chain…]
[CLINK!]
[THEN WHIPS DARKWISH WITH IT!]
[Jack hurls him into a brick wall–]
[THUD!]
[Then drags him up and slams him onto the cold, hard concrete!]
[Darkwish writhes in agony.]
Signal: “Stop this - the man could be paralysed!”
[Standard scrapes a wooden chair across the floor and rests its legs across the windpipe of Darkwish!]
[He takes a seat.]
Jack Standard: “Remember how you brutalised me to try and force a confession?”
[Scarred Justice struggles.]
Jack Standard: “Well, we already know you’re guilty... So I’m just doin’ this for fun!”
Black Scar: “He may be more far gone than I realised, Sig!”
Signal: “Ya think!?”
[Jack stands, wielding the chair over his head!]
[...]
[DARKWISH TRIPS HIM WITH THE CHAIN!]
[Standard takes a hard fall. The chair clatters on top of him!]
[Darkwish rolls on top of him and wraps the chain around Jack’s throat!]
Black Scar: “Ok, this is goin’ too far!”
[Justiciero Nocturno pulls it tight, choking the life outta Backbone–]
[CRACK!]
[WOODEN RULER TO THE SKULL!]
[Darkwish slumps forwards. Academius stands over him!]
[The Professor heaves him up and holds his arms.]
Academius: “Come on, Jack!”
[Standard rises. Nursing his throat and coughing, he sizes up Darkwish…]
Signal: “Someone, please, find out where they are and send help!”
[He advances–]
[DARKWISH SNAPMARES ACADEMIUS INTO HIM!]
[They scramble to their feet–]
[The avenger uses the chain to LASSO the wooden chair, then LOBS it at DEMASQ!]
[Wood and splinters fly everywhere as they cower.]
Black Scar: “Yeah, send help - for DEMASQ!”
[Darkwish screams…]
[AND BREAKS THE CHAIN!]
[Steel links fall to the floor. DEMASQ looks at the freed Darkwish, then at each other.]
[THEY RUSH HIM–]
[DARKNESS FALLS SUPERKICK!]
[DAWN V-TRIGGER!]
Signal: “Darkwish is standing tall over his captors!”
Winner: Darkwish
VHS: Hostage III
[Post-fight. Jack Standard lies beneath Darkwish. Broken. Barely conscious. Darkwish kneels over him. Breathing like a wounded animal.]
Signal: "Darkwish is standing tall over his captors!"
Black Scar: "After everything they've put him through... I don't think this is over."
[Darkwish looks down.]
[At Jack Standard.]
[At the blood running from his nose and mouth.]
[Something snaps.]
[He grabs Standard by the shirt.]
[And drives a fist into his face.]
[CRACK.]
[Again.]
[CRACK.]
[Again.]
[CRACK.]
Signal: "Darkwish, stop!"
[He keeps punching.]
[Again.]
[Again.]
[Again.]
[The crowd falls into horrified silence.]
[Blood sprays across the canvas.]
[Standard stops moving.]
[Darkwish doesn't.]
[His fists continue rising and falling until there is nothing left to hit.]
Black Scar: "He's... he's killing him..."
[Finally...]
[Darkwish stops.]
[Jack Standard's head slumps lifelessly to one side.]
[His face is no longer recognisable.]
[Darkwish rises.]
[Chest heaving.]
[His entire forearms covered in blood.]
[He throws his head back and lets out a primal roar.]
[He spins wildly.]
[Searching.]
Darkwish: "ACADEMIUS!"
[Further along the building—]
[Academius is already retreating.]
[He doesn't run.]
[He simply walks away.]
[Without looking back.]
[Darkwish stumbles after him.]
[One step.]
[Two.]
[Then...]
[His legs give out.]
[He crashes to his knees against a wall.]
Signal: "He's exhausted!"
[Darkwish looks down.]
[At his hands.]
[They are soaked in Jack Standard's blood.]
[He stares.]
[Frozen.]
[His breathing changes.]
[Panic.]
[He grips his own head.]
[Shaking.]
Darkwish: "No..."
[A whisper.]
Darkwish: "No..."
[He looks back at Standard's motionless body.]
[Then back at the blood coating his fingers.]
[His eyes fill with fear.]
Darkwish: "What if..."
[His voice cracks.]
Darkwish: "What if they're right?"
[He squeezes his eyes shut.]
[Rocking slightly.]
[Terrified.]
[Not of Academius.]
[Not of what he's done.]
[But of what he might have done before.]
Signal: "Look at him.."For the first time... Darkwish doesn't know if he can trust himself."
Black Scar: "And that's exactly what Academius wanted."
[The camera slowly pulls back.]
[Jack Standard's lifeless body on the floor]
[Darkwish broken.]
[Academius disappearing into the darkness.]
[Fade.]
Why?
[INT. THE TEMPLE - NIGHT]
[Innocent giggling fills the air. In contrast, Silas sits, mulling over his guitar. Even more than usual, Silas wears the look of a man with the world on his shoulders.]
Signal: “One doesn’t have to look hard to find Silas. Just follow the darkness…”
Black Scar: “And the trail of depressed souls as the joy is sucked from the world?.”
Signal: “Oh, not you too…”
[Silas sighs, a heavy sigh.]
[He stands and moves towards the giggling.]
[Rounding the corner, Silas sees the source. Dolly Daydream, mid way through having the soles of her feet licked by Glitter.]
Dolly Daydream: “Okay, you win. I am ticklish. Stop, before I wet myself!”
[Glitter merely smirks at the thought.]
Dolly Daydream: “Did it just get a bit chilly in here? Somebody open a window?”
[Silas steps forward. A glint from Dolly’s wrist catches his eye. A bracelet, complete with tiny little charm of the Eiffel Tower.]
[He sighs, saddened by the image.]
Silas: “You don’t see it. Do you, Dolly?”
[Dolly just about jumps off the couch out of fright.]
Dolly Daydream: “Jeepers creepers! I did not hear you come in.”
[Glitter stands, glaring as Silas.]
Silas: “I’ve been following you.”
[The statement hangs awkwardly in the air.]
Glitter: “Creep.”
[Silas shakes his head.]
Silas: “Not like that. I’ve been watching.”
[He strums a chord. The music merely hangs in the air, changing nothing.]
Dolly Daydream: “Ooh. Are you going to play a song? Do you know Love Story?”
Silas: “I know you wear a smile, Dolly.”
[He strums again. A second time, no effect.]
Silas: “Yet I suspect it’s not joy that I see. I just need to know… why?”
[Dolly blinks blankly at him.]
Dolly Daydream: “Because Love Story is a great song?”
[Silas sighs, deeply.]
Silas: “Suffering is a natural state. Yet, you’re a victim and you remain… happy? I don’t comprehend.”
[Silas points, not to Dolly, but to Glitter.]
Silas: “It’s something else. Something symbolised by that… trinket.”
[Dolly instinctively hugs her Hardcore Championship to her chest at the word.]
Signal: “You know… I don’t think that’s the trinket Silas is referring to.”
Black Scar: “Who cares anyway, it’s all meaningless in the end.”
[Silas moves towards Dolly.]
[Glitter moves to protect Dolly. Silas pushes Glitter back, but soon gets the hint. Dolly melts into Glitter’s arms.]
Glitter: “See. She trusts Glitter.”
[Silas draws near to Glitter, whispering so only Glitter can hear him.]
Silas: “And if you were to… stop smiling?”
[Silas backs away, strumming softly.]
[Dolly nuzzles into Glitter’s neck. Glitter glowers at the door.]
Black Scar: “I always feel better when he’s not around, Sig.”
Signal: “Something tells me Silas is not done chasing that title yet.”
Black Scar: “Or finding why Dolly and Glitter are unaffected by his powers.”
[Cut.]
Family
[Edward Newton stands in the center of the ring.]
Signal: “We’re just waiting on Nox Bellator for what should be a very exciting match.”
Black Scar: “I don’t know, Sig. I think the Riddler wants to talk first.”
[Newton indeed holds a microphone.]
Edward Newton: “Family.”
[A pause.]
Edward Newton: “The great equalizer.”
[He looks into the camera.]
Edward Newton: “The rich believe wealth protects them. The powerful believe fear protects them. The intelligent believe preparation protects them.”
[A beat.]
Edward Newton: “Then someone touches their family.”
[His expression hardens.]
Edward Newton: “And suddenly, every advantage becomes meaningless.”
[Newton turns toward the video screen.]
Edward Newton: “You wanted my attention, Cube.”
[A pause.]
Edward Newton: “You have it.”
[The crowd roars.]
Edward Newton: “Tell me what you want.”
[Piano.]
[Darkness.]
[A spotlight illuminates Padre Venganza as he walks out flanked by followers.]
Signal: “What business does Padre Venganza have down here?”
Black Scar: “He knows plenty about family, Sig.”
[Padre enters the ring.]
[Newton doesn’t move.]
Padre Venganza: “You speak of family as though you have only now discovered its power. Family is not weakness. It is blood. Loyalty. Sacrifice.”
[He steps closer.]
Padre Venganza: “You need not face this alone.”
[Newton smiles faintly.]
Edward Newton: “Jensen.”
[Padre’s face changes.]
Edward Newton: “I have already seen what family means to you. What your daughter meant...”
[The crowd reacts.]
Edward Newton: “Forgive me if I decline your assistance.”
[Padre steps forward—]
[THE VIDEO SCREEN FLICKERS.]
[Dr. Cube appears.]
[Scarlett is nowhere in sight.]
Dr. Cube: “Family.”
[He tilts his head.]
Dr. Cube: “Such a useful word.”
[Newton turns fully toward the screen.]
Edward Newton: “Where is she?”
Dr. Cube: “Still asking questions as though you control when answers are given. You will wait, Edward. You will follow every instruction. And you will be grateful each time I allow Scarlett to draw another breath.”
[Newton grips the microphone tightly.]
Padre Venganza: “You hide behind a child because you know what waits for you at Ring of Dreams.”
[Cube looks toward Padre.]
Dr. Cube: “Padre Venganza.”
[A faint laugh.]
Dr. Cube: “The patriarch of a broken family.”
Padre Venganza: “At Ring of Dreams, I take your World Championship.”
Dr. Cube: “It’s all about taking with you, isn’t it? For whatever wisdom you claim to possess, you still mistake possession for control.”
[A beat.]
Dr. Cube: “You infected Nox Bellator and called it creation. You twisted a man into your image and called him family.”
[Padre’s eyes narrow.]
Dr. Cube: “But I do not create followers.”
[He leans toward the camera.]
Dr. Cube: “I create games. And when the bell rings, Padre, you will discover that faith is merely another rule I can exploit.”
Padre Venganza: “You have no understanding of faith.”
Dr. Cube: “I understand it perfectly.”
[A pause.]
Dr. Cube: “Faith is what desperate men cling to when they have run out of answers.”
[Padre steps toward the screen.]
Padre Venganza: “At Ring of Dreams, you will have your answer.”
[A beat.]
Padre Venganza: “On your knees.”
[The crowd erupts.]
[Cube slowly applauds.]
Dr. Cube: “Powerful.”
[A pause.]
Dr. Cube: “Although you may have a larger problem standing behind you.”
[Darkness.]
Signal: “What now?!”
[The lights return.]
[NOX BELLATOR STANDS IN THE RING.]
[Padre turns.]
[Nox stares directly at him.]
[Padre immediately backs through the ropes.]
Black Scar: “Padre wants no part of that infected bastard tonight!”
Signal: “But Edward Newton doesn’t have that choice!”
Signal: "Neither of these men in this upcoming contest are in their right mind, Scar."
Black Scar: "You’re not wrong there Sig. Newton’s got a niece who’s being held captive by Dr. Cube in some sort of twisted mind game. While the once sickeningly bright beacon of hope has become this cooler, dark twisted visage of what he once was."
Signal: "And these men aren’t going to end tonight’s fight until one submits to the other."
[The bell sounds and we’re underway as both men circle each other.]
[Newton shoots first shooting for a Double-Leg Takedown.]
[*KER-RAK!*]
[ROUNDHOUSE TO THE SHOULDER OF THE RIDDLER!]
[Newton falls flat as The Warrior of Darkness begins Stomping away at that shoulder.]
[In desperation and with one arm The Enigma pushes himself off the canvas and hits a battering ram like Headbutt to the groin of Nox.]
[Newton stands and grabs the doubled over Bellator setting him up...]
[RIDDLE ME THIS! - SIT OUT PILEDRIVER!]
[The Genius rolls through...]
[CRIPPLER CROSSFACE – THE QUESTION - NOX ROLLS OUT OF IT ISOLATING THE INJURED ARM OF NEWTON.]
[LAST PRAYER – FUJIWARA ARMBAR!]
[THE WARRIOR OF DARKNESS ARCHES BACK AND AS THE RULEADOR GETS DOWN TO CHECK ON THE MAN WITH ALL THE ANSWERS LOOKING FOR THE ANSWER TO JUST ONE, DOES HE SUBMIT?]
[THE RULEADOR’S PUT HIMSELF OUT OF POSITION AND NOX BELLATOR PUTS HIS FEET ON THE MIDDLE ROPE TO APPLY MORE PRESSURE!]
[NEWTON SCREAMS AND TAPS OUT BEFORE NOX BELLATOR CAN DISLOCATE HIS SHOULDER!]
Black Scar: "And Nox starts off proving he’s the superior incarnation of Bellator."
Signal: "Damn Scar, at least Lux fought for good, Nox just cheated to beat a man who’s got the weight of his kidnapped niece Scarlett who calls out for her Uncle Eddie."
Black Scar: "Excuses, excuses, Sig, Newton should be able to handle the pressure."
Winner: Nox Bellator
Knife to a Gun Fight
[Blackhand Moretti whistles Twisted Nerve as he treks through dense woodland in unsuitable attire.]
Black Scar: “Has The Boss taken up gardening, Sig!?”
Signal: “Think, Scar: who do we know that wears jungle camouflage?”
[A twig snaps under his feet.]
Signal: “Anyone else on the OSW roster would be looking over their shoulder…”
Black Scar: “He can’t show fear. The Don of Destruction commands respect. His empire would crumble if he let Rambro scare him!”
[Moretti ventures deeper.]
Blackhand Moretti: “Raaambrooo… Come out to plaaayyy-eeehhh!”
Signal: “Wait - he wants to be caught!?”
Blackhand Moretti: “Heard the reports of some bum scarin’ folks off from the woods. Figured it’d be you—”
[THWUMP!]
[Something drops down behind Moretti!]
Black Scar: “Was that a freakin’ ninja!?”
[Blackhand spins round—]
[Coming face-to-face with Rambro!]
Signal: “He must’ve been in the treetops!”
[The Last Survivor’s thousand-yard stare looks right through Moretti.]
Rambro: “You’re behind enemy lines.”
[Blackhand stands firm.]
Blackhand Moretti: “My guys are still MIA, soldier-boy.”
Rambro: “And you’re about to be KIA!”
[Rambro advances—]
[Moretti whips out his engraved, silver pistol!]
[Rambro freezes.]
Black Scar: “Quick, somebody get Siniestro - or Deadeye!”
[Blackhand chuckles.]
Blackhand Moretti: “I told you I had a bullet with your name on it. Do me a favour, Ramalam: this time, stay dead!”
[He squuueeezes the trigger…]
[RAMBRO THROWS HIS BOWIE KNIFE–]
[THUNK!]
[IT PINS THE GUN TO A TREE TRUNK, DISARMING MORETTI!]
[Blackhand sighs as Rambro steps up.]
Blackhand Moretti: “Can I get a smoke in before we do this?”
Rambro: “Go ahead. I’ll kill you long before any cancer will.”
[Moretti lights a cigar and takes a puff… Then flicks it into the dry brush!]
[WHOOSH!]
[Rambro whips his head round - his camp is on fire!]
Blackhand Moretti: “See you at Ring of Dreams, Action Man!”
[A cackling Blackhand flees as Rambro fights the flames!]
Only Fools Rush In
[INT. THE TEMPLE — LOCKER ROOM — NIGHT.]
[Edward Newton enters the locker room, still breathing heavily after his match. He stops dead in his tracks when he sees something resting on the bench.]
[Two things actually.]
[A pair of sunglasses.]
Signal: “This isn’t good.”
[Luke Storm’s sunglasses.]
[One lens is cracked.]
[Newton walks toward them.]
[Beside them sits a cellphone.]
[Luke’s cellphone.]
[The screen lights up.]
[The lock screen shows Scarlett. Bound. Gagged. Terror filling her eyes.]
[Newton freezes.]
Signal: “Oh, no…”
Black Scar: “Storm found Cube.”
[A voicemail notification appears.]
[Newton presses play.]
[Static.]
[Then Dr. Cube’s voice.]
Dr. Cube: “Only fools rush in.”
[A faint groan can be heard in the background.]
[Luke.]
Dr. Cube: “Your brother believed strength would compensate for impatience.”
[A dull THUD.]
[Luke groans again.]
[Newton grips the phone tighter.]
Dr. Cube: “He searched. He threatened. He broke every rule I gave you. And now…”
[The sound of Luke breathing heavily.]
Dr. Cube: “He is here.”
[Newton’s eyes move back to the cracked sunglasses.]
Dr. Cube: “Tell me, Edward…”
[A beat.]
Dr. Cube: “Are there any real heroes left in the world?”
[A low laugh.]
Dr. Cube: “Or merely frightened men pretending bravery will protect the people they love?”
[Luke’s voice breaks through.]
Luke Storm: “Don’t… listen…”
[A sudden impact.]
[Silence.]
[Newton’s composure shatters.]
Edward Newton: “Luke?”
Dr. Cube: “Don’t worry. This hero still lives.”
[Pause.]
Dr. Cube: “For now.”
[The message ends. Newton remains motionless. The phone trembles in his hand. Then—]
[He hurls it into the wall.]
[It explodes into pieces.]
[Newton picks up the broken sunglasses.]
[He stares at them.]
Edward Newton: “You wanted me to wait.”
[His voice turns cold.]
Edward Newton: “Now you have my complete attention.”
[Cut.]
Showdown at High Noon
[EXT. DUSTY MOLVANIAN STREET – DAY. A lonely wind whistles through the empty street. Tumbleweed rolls lazily between weathered buildings. Outside Goldman's Saloon...]
[Two men stand opposite one another.]
[Twenty paces apart.]
[Deadeye adjusts the brim of his hat.]
[His hand hovers close to his revolver.]
[Across from him...]
[Santiago Siniestro.]
[Hands relaxed at his sides.]
[Expression unreadable.]
[One pistol holstered.]
[The other hidden beneath his coat.]
Signal: "It's like stepping into the Old West."
Black Scar: "Only one of these killers is walking away."
[Deadeye spits into the dirt.]
Deadeye: "Much obliged fer comin'."
[A beat.]
Deadeye: "Been lookin' forward to this."
[Siniestro says nothing.]
[Deadeye continues.]
Deadeye: "Let's settle this proper."
[He gestures to the dusty street between them.]
Deadeye: "High noon."
[A pause.]
Deadeye: "Five paces."
[He taps the butt of his revolver.]
Deadeye: "Draw."
[Siniestro smiles faintly.]
[Then slowly shakes his head.]
Siniestro: "No."
[Deadeye raises an eyebrow.]
Siniestro: "No kill shots."
[A beat.]
Siniestro: "We draw. We fire."
[Another beat.]
Siniestro: "Then..."
[A faint grin.]
Siniestro: "We fight."
[Deadeye studies him.]
[Then slowly smiles.]
Deadeye: "Heh..."
[A nod.]
Deadeye: "Now that's a showdown."
[From the saloon... The doors swing open. A small, elderly man in a striped referee shirt steps out. A thick rulebook tucked beneath his arm.]
[He clears his throat.]
Ruleador: "Gentlemen..."
[He raises one finger.]
Ruleador: "Five paces."
[Another.]
Ruleador: "One shot."
[A final.]
Ruleador: "Then the rules end."
[Deadeye tips his hat.]
Deadeye: "Deal."
[Siniestro gives a single nod.]
[The three men take their positions.]
[The wind picks up.]
[High noon awaits.]
Black Scar: “It’s time for all four of OSW’s champions to meet face to face and see who the top dog amongst them really is.”
Signal: “I’m sure they’d all say that they are, Scar. All four of them have fought difficult battles to keep a hold of those belts, and they’re ready to show why in our main event!”
[The Ruleador calls for the bell as Del Toro, Cube, and Pixelshift stare each other down with great intensity.]
[Dolly, meanwhile, has a big grin on her face, providing a huge contrast between the trio.]
[All four of the competitors begin circling the ring and each other, waiting for someone to make the first move.]
[After a few laps around the squared circle, Player One lunges at the Doctor!]
[But the Game Master sees it coming, and nails the Glitch with a CHECKMATE spinning back elbow!]
Black Scar: “That’s going to take a massive chunk out of the health bar!”
[Pixelshift stumbles back against the ropes, allowing Cube to irish whip the Glitch into El Matador.]
[Del Toro dodges Player One on the pass, and looks to complete the CURSED CHARGE with a superkick!]
[However, Pixelshift froze mid run before the kick could connect!]
[Player One resumes running a second later with a LAG SPIKE cutter that drives El Matador into the mat!]
[Dr Cube rushes toward Pixelshift, but gets intercepted by the Dreamer with a surprise PERFECTION Codebreaker!]
Signal: “Dolly just showed the Game Master why he needs to stay focused on everyone in this match!”
[The Doctor rolls out of the ring as Del Toro and Pixelshift get back to their feet.]
[Dolly skips towards the Matador, setting him up for the CHESHIRE SNAP snapmare driver, but Santiago spins out!]
[He throws his cape over the Glitch’s head before locking Dolly in with the ETERNAL SILENCE cobra clutch!]
[Before Player One can pull the cape off himself, he’s tripped off his feet and dragged out of the ring by Cube!]
Black Scar: “Looks like the Doctor’s bringing this fight up close and personal like!”
[The Game Master kicks a blinded Glitch in the gut before locking Pix’s arm behind his back and planting him head first with a RUSSIAN ROULETTE hammerlock DDT!]
[Back in the ring, Dolly continues to struggle in the submission as Del Toro swings her from side to side.]
[Cube slides back in the ring and charges at both of them.]
[Del Toro lets go of the hold as Dolly ducks under a wild lariat from the Doctor, which the Matador eats instead!]
[The Dreamer grabs the Game Master by the arm and spins him around into an OFF WITH IT ripcord knee!]
Signal: “This match is Dolly’s to win!”
[Cube looks dazed as Dolly traps him in a front headlock.]
[She attempts to hoist him up for the PORCELAIN SHATTER DDT, but Cube hits a double leg takedown!]
[He kicks her right in the face before turning her on her stomach for the PUZZLE LOCK Regal Stretch!]
[He wrenches the hold in tight, seemingly unaware that Pixelshift has jumped off the top rope!]
Signal: “SKYDIVER PRESS! That senton bomb crushes Dolly’s back as Cube moves out of the way!”
[Player One gets up to a knee after nailing the senton.]
[He’s entirely unaware that Del Toro is back to his feet, lining him up for the kill!]
[PHANTOM CORONADA!]
[The busaiku knee makes its mark on the Glitch’s head!]
[Cube rolls up Del Toro from behind!]
[Handful of tights!]
[One!]
[Two!!]
[Three!!!]
Black Scar: “The Game Master proving that intellect is superior here tonight!”
Winner: Dr. Cube
Ring of Dreams
[Dr. Cube remains inside the ring, World Championship clutched against his chest.]
Signal: “What a battle we’ve just witnessed!”
Black Scar: “And Cube’s still standing.”
[Cube raises the championship—]
[EDWARD NEWTON SLIDES INTO THE RING. HE ATTACKS CUBE FROM BEHIND.]
Signal: “NEWTON!”
Black Scar: “HE’S DONE WAITING!”
[Newton drives Cube into the corner.]
[Left hands.]
[Right hands.]
[Every strike filled with rage.]
Edward Newton: “WHERE ARE THEY?!”
[Cube covers up. Newton pulls him out of the corner. He hooks Cube’s head.]
Signal: “NEVERMIND!”
[Newton prepares to drive Cube into the canvas—]
[PADRE VENGANZA STRIKES.]
[He clubs Newton from behind, naking the Riddler drop Cube and collapse.]
Signal: “PADRE VENGANZA JUST SAVED DR. CUBE!”
Black Scar: “He didn’t save Cube! He protected his own title match!”
[Padre drags Newton upright.]
Padre Venganza: “You should have accepted my help when it was offered.”
[Newton rolls toward the ropes as Cube watches from the corner.]
[Amused.]
[Padre turns toward him. The World Championship rests between them.]
[Then—]
[THE LIGHTS GO OUT.]
Signal: “Not again!”
[The lights return and NOX BELLATOR STANDS BEHIND PADRE.]
[Padre turns—]
[NOX LAUNCHES HIM ACROSS THE RING.]
Signal: “NOX BELLATOR JUST PLANTED PADRE!”
[Nox charges—]
[ZZZZT!]
[A burst of electricity. Nox’s body locks. He collapses.]
[Dr. Cube stands behind him.]
[A taser in his hand.]
Black Scar: “CUBE JUST DROPPED NOX!”
[Cube looks down at him. Then slowly steps over Edward Newton. Newton reaches for Cube’s ankle.]
[Cube pulls free without looking down.]
[He approaches Padre.]
[Padre leaves the corner.]
[They meet in the center of the ring.]
[Face to face.]
[The World Championship on the ground between them.]
[Newton crawls toward Cube. Nox twitches on the canvas. Neither Cube nor Padre looks away.]
Signal: “At Ring of Dreams, these two men collide for the greatest prize in OSW!”
Black Scar: “Cube’s got Newton hunting him, Nox hunting Padre, and Scarlett and Luke Storm somewhere nobody can find!”
Signal: “But none of that will matter when the bell rings!”
[Padre points at the championship.]
[Cube picks it up and raises it between them.]
[The crowd rises.]
[Neither man backs down.]
Signal: “Dr. Cube!”
Black Scar: “Padre Venganza!”
Signal: “The World Championship!”
Black Scar: “RING OF DREAMS!”
[Cube and Padre remain nose-to-nose.]
[The Temple erupts.]
[Fade to black.]
[Cold Open.]
[INT. THE TEMPLE — LOCKER ROOM — NIGHT.]
[Edward Newton stands alone with a phone pressed to his ear. His other hand rests against the wall. Not for support. To keep himself still.]
Luke Storm: “I’m close.”
Edward Newton: “Then stop.”
Luke Storm: “Not fucking happening.”
Edward Newton: “Luke, listen to me.”
[Newton closes his eyes.]
Edward Newton: “Cube expects you to rush in. Every door you kick down gives him another opportunity to move Scarlett.”
Luke Storm: “You heard her, Eddie. She called for us.”
Edward Newton: “Which is precisely why you need to follow my instructions.”
Luke Storm: “She called for her father.”
[Newton’s jaw tightens.]
Luke Storm: “I’m done sitting around while you solve puzzles.”
Edward Newton: “This is not a puzzle!”
[Silence.]
[Newton catches himself.]
[His voice lowers.]
Edward Newton: “Cube has already warned us what happens if we interfere.”
Luke Storm: “Yeah? And what happens if we don’t?”
[Newton has no answer.]
Luke Storm: “I’m going to find him.”
Edward Newton: “And when you do?”
Luke Storm: “I’ll end the son of a bitch.”
Edward Newton: “No. You will contact me and wait.”
Luke Storm: “You keep waiting. I’ll keep looking.”
Edward Newton: “Luke—”
Luke Storm: “Fix it, Eddie. Because I’m not waiting around anymore.”
[The call ends.]
[Newton slowly lowers the phone.]
[He looks at the screen.]
[Call ended.]
[His reflection stares back at him.]
[Frustrated.]
[Afraid.]
[Out of control.]
Edward Newton: “Idiot.”
[A beat.]
[He immediately begins dialing again.]
[Cut.]
VHS: Hostage I
[Cold Open.]
[The camera fades in on darkness. The faint buzz of a single fluorescent tube flickers overhead. Water drips somewhere in the distance. The image slowly sharpens.]
[Darkwish is tied to a steel chair.]
[His wrists bound tightly behind his back.]
[A thick leather dog collar is buckled around his neck.]
[A heavy chain runs from it to the floor.]
[His mask is torn.]
[His gear hangs in tatters.]
[Blood stains the fabric.]
[One eye is swollen nearly shut beneath the ripped mask.]
[His breathing is laboured.]
Signal: "Oh my God..."
Black Scar: "Looks like Darkwish finally found himself on the wrong end of an interrogation."
[Standing over him...]
[Jack Standard.]
[Knuckle dusters wrapped around both fists.]
[Fresh blood glistens across the steel.]
[Academius slowly circles the chair behind Darkwish.]
[Hands clasped behind his back.]
[Like a teacher inspecting a failed student.]
Academius: "I should have seen it sooner."
[A pause.]
Academius: "The bodies."
[He continues circling.]
Academius: "The letters."
[Another step.]
Academius: "The accusations."
[He stops directly in front of Darkwish.]
Academius: "You weren't hunting us."
[A beat.]
Academius: "You were framing us."
[Darkwish spits blood onto the floor.]
[His voice is weak.]
[Ragged.]
Darkwish: "I'd..."
[He coughs.]
Darkwish: "Never..."
[Another cough.]
Darkwish: "Do it...."
[Jack suddenly grabs him by the jaw.]
[Forcing his head upright.]
[The knuckle dusters dig into Darkwish's face.]
Jack Standard: "Liar."
[He squeezes harder.]
Jack Standard: "Let's stop wasting time."
[He looks toward Academius.]
Jack Standard: "Let's take his mask or take his life."
[Academius looks thoughtfully at Darkwish.]
[Almost disappointed.]
[Then slowly shakes his head.]
Academius: "No."
[A long pause.]
Academius: "Lessons are worthless..."
[He leans down until they're eye to eye.]
Academius: "Unless someone is there to learn from them."
[He straightens his jacket.]
Academius: "We're going to make an example of you first."
[Darkwish glares back despite the blood running down his face.]
[He says nothing.]
[The camera slowly pulls away.]
[Leaving him chained...]
[Battered...]
[Waiting for whatever lesson DEMASQ has planned.]
[Cut.]
Black Scar: “It’s a good job Molvanîa has free healthcare, ‘cos both these Hardcore match competitors are gonna need it!”
Signal: “Will Dr. Vinell extract a win from The Candy Man, or will the doctor get a taste of his own medicine!?”
[Torturous toys litter the ringside. Vinell ducks behind Candy and applies a waistlock, but the 300-pounder rams him backwards into the corner!]
[Candy grabs a wooden door and props it against the Doc. He backs up and gathers steam…]
Signal: “When one door closes, Scar–”
[CRUNCH!]
[SUGAR CRASH BREAKS THE DOOR OVER VINELL WITH A CORNER SPLASH!]
[Vinell slumps down against the bottom turnbuckle. Candy looks upwards, asking for mommy’s guidance.]
Black Scar: “This guy is an absolute fruit-loop, Sig!”
[Candy charges in with a hip attack…]
[But a DROP TOE-HOLD by Vinell sends him face-first into the middle turnbuckle!]
[The Good Doctor grabs a bowling ball–]
Signal: “I don’t think he’s practicing his hook, Scar!”
[He measures the approach and releases the ball…]
[LOW BLOW WITH THE BOWLING BALL!]
Black Scar: “STRIIIKE!”
[Candy rolls on the mat and kicks his feet in agony!]
[Vinell grabs a fistful of MOUSE TRAPS and sets them up. What the hell is he planning!?]
[He waits for Candy to rise, but the brawler’s equilibrium is off-kilter…]
[The sawbones grabs him–]
Black Scar: “Candy suckers him in!”
[TILT-A-WHIRL SLAM!]
Signal: “THE BIG WHIRLY ONTO THE MOUSE TRAPS!”
[SNAP, SNAP, SNAP!]
[Candy covers a trap-covered Vinell.]
[ONE!]
[TWO!]
[SHOULDER UP!]
[A frustrated Candy produces a tiny bag…]
Black Scar: “Uh-oh - we’ve seen this before!”
[Unbeknownst to him, however, Vinell also has something up his white sleeve.]
[They stand and turn–]
[SUGAR RUSH!]
[OCULAR ASSAULT!]
[THEY THROW POWDERED SUGAR AND A MYSTERIOUS SUBSTANCE INTO EACH OTHER’S EYES!]
Signal: “Both men are BLIND!”
[Swinging wildly and missing, they collapse and reach for the nearest objects…]
Black Scar: “Candy’s got a COOKIE JAR, and Vinell has a… BEDPAN!?”
[They both turn once more–]
[SMASH!]
[Candy Butcher shatters the cookie jar over Vinell’s head!]
[ONE!]
[TWO!]
[THREE!]
Signal: “This victory must taste all the sweeter for The Candy Man!”
Winner: Candy Man
Man on a Mission
[As the bell rings and the ring clears we are left with Dr. E Vinell who rolls quickly to ringside.]
Signal: "Looks like the Doctor is trying to high tail it out of here, Scar."
Black Scar: "Wouldn't you? He's made an enemy of OSW's most Motivated Man. All hundred pounds of him."
[TURN YOUR LIFE AROUND! SLINGBLADE BY ZIGGY ROBBINS!]
[Ziggy doesn't relent for a moment, laying into Vinell with stomp after stomp as the Doctor futilely tries to crawl away!]
Ziggy Robbins: "Give!"
[STOMP!]
Ziggy Robbins: "My!"
[STOMP!]
Ziggy Robbins: "Brother!"
[STOMP!]
Ziggy Robbins: "Back!"
[STOMP! STOMP! STOMP!]
Signal: "By God he's going to kill him!"
Black Scar: "He brought it on himself, Sig! Ziggy is a man on a mission tonight!"
[The assault from Robbins drives Vinell back into the steel steps! Ziggy looms over him, a microphone in his hand.]
Ziggy Robbins: "You're going to make him better... Then you're going to set him free. Do you understand me? Do you!?"
[Vinell looks up at Ziggy, chest rising as he begins to laugh. A slow chuckle that builds into a booming, demented cackle!]
Dr. E. Vinell: "I've already made him better! He was the perfect guinea pig. A stepping stone towards my magnum opus!"
[The Doctor leans towards Ziggy, a smirk beneath his mask.]
Dr. E. Vinell: "If you want him, then come get him."
[BANG!]
[FLASHBANG BY VINELL! ROBBINS IS BLINDED AND THE DOCTOR SCRAMBLES UP THE ENTRANCE RAMP!]
[The crowd boos his cowardice as he disappears.]
[Yet Robbins stands unshaken.]
[More motivated than ever.]
[Cut.]
The Hollow
[INT. ARCADE ROOM — NIGHT.]
[The room is darker than usual. Only one cabinet is powered. Its screen pulses an angry crimson. Respawn stands before it, hands clasped behind his back like an artist admiring a masterpiece.]
[PixelShift slowly approaches.]
Signal: "Respawn said he had Mars' new level ready..."
Black Scar: "Judging by the colour scheme, I don't think it's CandyCrusher."
[The cabinet whines.]
[The title fades into view.]
ASYLUM.EXE
[The screen glitches.]
[For a split second, a padded cell appears.]
[Then a blood-soaked corridor.]
[Then a wheelchair rolling by itself.]
[The lights in the arcade room flicker in time with the images.]
Pixelshift: "Respawn..."
[A beat.]
Pixelshift: "What is this?"
[Respawn smiles proudly.]
Respawn: "His level."
[He gently pats the side of the cabinet.]
Respawn:"Mars wanted bigger."
[A pause.]
Respawn: "Badder."
[The screen flashes again.]
[Straight jackets.]
[Surgical tables.]
[Shadows moving behind reinforced glass.]
Respawn: "He's getting exactly what he asked for."
[PixelShift stares at the screen.]
[His confidence drains.]
Pixelshift:"No..."
[He takes a step backwards.]
Pixelshift: "This isn't a level."
[A beat.]
Pixelshift: "It's a nightmare."
[Respawn says nothing.]
Pixelshift: "But..."
[His voice falters.]
Pixelshift: "It's a threat to me too."
[He looks desperately at Respawn.]
Pixelshift: "If I go in there..."
[A pause.]
Pixelshift: "I'm not sure I'll come back out."
[Respawn folds his arms.]
[Unmoved.]
Pixelshift: "Please."
[A beat.]
Pixelshift: "Change it. This is too much. Make something else, okay? Please... reconsider."
[Respawn slowly shakes his head.]
Respawn: "Beta testing doesn't work if there's no risk."
[The cabinet emits a distorted scream.]
Respawn: "Fear is just another mechanic."
[He presses a key.]
[The Asylum's iron doors slowly creak open on the screen.]
Respawn: "Welcome to the next level."
[PixelShift can only stare.]
[For the first time...]
[He isn't excited to play.]
We'll Always Have Paris
[Previously Recorded.]
[EXT. PARIS, FRANCE - DAYTIME]
[Paris. City of lovers. Street cafes, street performers. The Eiffel Tower in the background. Everything is warm, romantic.]
[Here, we see Glitter and Dolly walking, hand in hand.]
[Dolly is skipping along, barely able to hold her excitement.]
Dolly Daydream: “Glitter! Look! I’ve never seen anything like this!”
[She points to the Eiffel Tower.]
Dolly Daydream: “It’s so… big! Now I know why they call it an eyeful.”
[Glitter smiles. Not to Dolly, to themself.]
[Glitter motions towards a bench beside the River Seine. They move to sit together.]
Glitter: “You asked and Glitter brought your dreams to you.”
[Her exuberance has caught the attention of a Frenchman, who ambles over.]
Frenchman: “Come vis me?”
[He extends a hand to Dolly, ignoring Glitter entirely.]
[Dolly merely blinks.]
Dolly Daydream: “Come where?”
Frenchman: “Chez moi?”
[Dolly looks blank. Glitter does not.]
Dolly Daydream: “Show you what?”
Glitter: “Not show you… Chez… Nevermind.”
[Glitter stands, eyeballing the man before pushing him into the river.]
Glitter: “Now, where were we?”
[The energy slows. Dolly looks up at Glitter, a sparkle in her eyes.]
Dolly Daydream: “Thanks… Thanks for bringing me.”
[Glitter brushes the sentiment off slightly.]
Glitter: “You deserve it.”
[A beat. Glitter looks out towards the French backdrop, ignoring the French cries for help from the river below.]
Glitter: “Nobody else would have.”
[Dolly frowns. Glitter continues gently, turning back towards her.]
Glitter: "Who believed in you? Helped you become champion and defended you? Who stood beside you every week?"
[Dolly’s voice is but a whisper.]
Dolly Daydream: “You..."
[Glitter smiles, nodding.]
Glitter: "Glitter doesn’t ask for much. Just honesty, appreciation. Just knowing that... after everything Glitter has done for you…”
[Glitter draws right in to Dolly.]
Glitter: "...you won't leave me too."
[Panic sets into the eyes of Dolly. She blubbers.]
Dolly Daydream: "I-I'd never leave you!"
[She grabs Glitter's hands. Almost desperate.]
Dolly Daydream: “I promise!"
[Glitter smiles.]
Glitter: “I know. Glitter just needed to hear you say it."
[Glitter produces a small box from their pocket. They flip open the lid.]
[A glittering bracelet sparkles before Dolly. Shining with a pendant charm of the Eiffel tower.]
Glitter: “I want you to remember this. Treasure it as you treasure me. Remember your promise.”
[Glitter fastens the bracelet on Dolly’s wrist. Dolly beams.]
Dolly Daydream: “Oh, thank you. Thank you. I love it!”
[Across the river, unbeknown to Dolly and Glitter, the colour begins to fade from the French backdrop.]
[Cut.]
Signal: “Hot off a massive victory at Maskageddon last week, can Ziggy Robbins continue to ride the train of success.”
Black Scar: “Judging from the mere size of what stands across from him, I’d say that train is about to be derailed.”
[Padre Venganza is quick to size up Ziggy Robbins, as Jurassic Colossus squares off against Warlord Mars. Colossus unloads a massive right hand but MARS SIMPLY EATS IT!]
[COLOSSUS ROARS IN THE FACE OF MARS! BUT MARS MERELY ROARS RIGHT BACK!]
[MASSIVE BELLY TO BELLY SUPLEX FROM MARS!]
Signal: “I don’t think Colossus is used to being outpowered. Mars barely flinched!”
[Padre Venganza moves to grab Ziggy, but Robbins skirts out of the way. He’s mid way through talking himself out of danger when Padre catches up with him.]
[BLUNT FORCE TRAUMA! LEAPING SIDEKICK SILENCES ROBBINS!]
[And suddenly, Venganza finds himself eyeball to eyeball with Warlord Mars.]
Black Scar: “Somebody’s about to get hurt real bad.”
[Venganza attacks first, clobbering Mars with Throat Thrust that catches Mars unawares.]
[STO! MIDNIGHT SHAD-NO! MARS PUSHES VENGANZA BACK INTO THE ROPES!]
[VENGANZA REBOUNDS BACK… RIGHT INTO A RUNNING HEADBUTT FROM MARS!]
[Warlord Mars stands atop the destruction like a… Warlord.]
[Only for a moment though, before Ziggy Robbins rolls him up from behind.]
[ONE!]
[TWO!]
[NO!]
Signal: “Warlord Mars was looking every bit the force we’ve come to expect of him. And Ziggy Robbins very nearly pulled the rug out from underneath him.”
Black Scar: “You don’t get points for nearly, Sig. Now Robbins has better run.”
[Mars picks Ziggy up from the scruff of the neck, holding him above his head in a towering Chokehold.]
[He watches as Ziggy squirms, his legs slowly flailing less and less.]
[Until he’s cut down at the knee. Jurassic Colossus takes down Warlord Mars!]
[COLOSSUS CATCHES ZIGGY!]
[WHEELBARROW FACEBUSTER! SHARPTOOTH SHATTER!]
[AND JURASSIC COLOSSUS COVERS FOR THE PIN!]
[ONE!]
[TW-NO!]
[WARLORD MARS KICKS ZIGGY RIGHT IN THE TEMPLE AND SENDS HIM FLYING!]
Signal: “Well, he just got his bell rung!”
[MARS HOISTS COLOSSUS UP!]
[TORTURE RACK! WAR MACHINE!]
[HERE COMES THE POWERBOMB!]
Black Scar: “Count to a hundred, he’s done!”
[ONE!]
[TWO!]
[THREE!]
Signal: “Warlord Mars picks up the victory and proves that size does matter.”
Winner: Warlord Mars
Please...
[Ringside — moments after the match. Warlord Mars stands in the ring. Sweat pours from his body. His chest rises and falls like a beast catching its breath.]
Signal: "Another war won by Warlord Mars."
Black Scar: "Big meaty man keeps stackin' bodies."
["PRESS START" echoes through the Temple.]
[PixelShift walks onto the stage.]
[Microphone in hand.]
[No smile.]
[No jokes.]
[Only concern.]
Signal: "PixelShift..."
Black Scar: "Kid oughta turn around."
[PixelShift slowly enters the ring.]
[Keeping his distance.]
Pixelshift:"Mars..."
[A pause.]
Pixelshift: "Listen."
[Mars snorts.]
Warlord Mars: "Whatchu want now, Pixel-PUKE?!"
[PixelShift points toward the entrance.]
Pixelshift: "The Hollow..."
[A beat.]
Pixelshift: "Respawn built it. I've seen it."
[His voice becomes more serious.]
Pixelshift: "It's not a game."
[A pause.]
Pixelshift: "It's wrong."
[The crowd quietens.]
Pixelshift: "That place..."
[A beat.]
Pixelshift: "Terrified me."
[Mars bursts into laughter.]
Warlord Mars: "YOU?!"
[He points.]
Warlord Mars: "You're scared of EVERYTHING!"
[PixelShift shakes his head.]
Pixelshift: "No..."
[A pause.]
Pixelshift: "I'm scared for you."
[Mars' grin disappears.]
Pixelshift: "Whatever's inside that level..."
[A beat.]
Pixelshift: "It'll change us.. please... Don't go in there."
[Silence.]
[Mars stares at him.]
[Then suddenly...]
[GRABS HIM BY THE THROAT.]
Signal: "MARS!"
[PixelShift drops the microphone.]
[Mars lifts him effortlessly.]
Warlord Mars: "You STILL don't get it!"
[He drags PixelShift toward the ropes.]
Warlord Mars: "I AIN'T AFRAID OF NO DAMN GAME!"
[PixelShift struggles.]
[Mars hauls him over his shoulder.]
Warlord Mars: "Matter o' fact..."
[A savage grin spreads across his face.]
Warlord Mars: "It's time..."
[He stomps toward the entrance.]
Warlord Mars: "TO PLAY THE GAME!"
[Mars disappears backstage carrying PixelShift like prey.]
Signal: "He's taking him!"
Black Scar: "Straight to The Hollow..."
Signal: "God help them both."
[Cut.]
Sweet Tooth
[Passionate fans purchase refreshments and merchandise in The Temple’s concourse.]
[Stomp! Stomp! Stomp!]
[Turning and looking as one, they gasp—]
[Emerging from the locker rooms is The Jurassic Colossus!]
[Deciding that autographs and selfies are too risky, the panicked fans flee!]
[Accustomed to clearing the room, the unfazed Last Dinosaur approaches a concession stand.]
Jurassic Colossus: “Tired of raw meat… Give me sssomething ssssweet!”
[The awestruck kiosk worker prepares and presents some cotton candy!]
Jurassic Colossus: “Thanksss!”
[Jurassic’s forked tongue flickers—]
[WHAM!]
[WHAT THE—!?]
[THE CANDY MAN TAKES HIM OUT!]
[Standing over Colossus, the 300-pound Sugar Crash holds the candy floss aloft.]
The Candy Man: “I was looking in the wrong places, Mommy. It’s obvious to me now. Who else could know where my stash is!? Of course it has to be you! After all, nobody has a bigger sweet tooth than you!”
[Candy licks the pink confectionary.]
The Candy Man: “WHERE IS IT!?”
[A downed Jurassic growls.]
Jurassic Colossus: “Where’s what!?”
[Candy rages.]
The Candy Man: “DON’T PLAY DUMB WITH US!”
[HE STOMPS A MUDHOLE IN COLOSSUS!]
The Candy Man: “NOBODY CARES!”
[Candy relents, sobbing.]
The Candy Man: “I’m trying!”
[Holding his ribs, Jurassic groans.]
Jurassic Colossus: “You’re f-fucked in the head… I’m gonna p-pull your gutsss out!”
[Sniffling, Candy wipes his nose on the back of his hand.]
The Candy Man: “You’re right, Mommy - he’s left us no choice!”
[The Candy Man reaches into his pocket…]
[AND PULLS OUT A SET OF PLIERS!]
[NO—!]
[CANDY MAN FORCES THE LAST DINOSAUR’S MANDIBLES OPEN—]
[HE GRIPS ONE OF HIS FANGS WITH THE PLIERS!]
[COLOSSUS THRASHES AND WAILS AS CANDY WRENCHES!]
[…]
[CRUNCH!]
Jurassic Colossus: “AAAAARRRRGGGHH!”
[CANDY MAN RIPS HIS FUCKING TOOTH OUT!]
[Colossus writhes in agony, spitting a mouthful of blood onto the floor! Examining his trophy, Candy smiles, revealing his own rotten teeth.]
The Candy Man: “He bit off more than he could chew, Mommy.”
[Giggling, The Candy Man pockets the tooth and leaves Jurassic nursing his mouth.]
Signal: Big time trios action here tonight as Silas, Deadeye and Blackhand Moretti do battle against Santiago Siniestro, Glitter and Rambro.
Black Scar: No love lost between any of these men here tonight Siggie, three stories interwoven and this should be a non stop war.
[The bell sounds as there's no tags, nor starting competitors. All six men rush forward, rights and lefts flying every which way as the ruleador tries unsucessfully to get some order.]
[Blackhand nearly taking Rambro's head off with a massive Omerta sized Big Boot.]
[Glitter rocking Silas with a hard slap to the jaw but the Sorrow slips out of the BallsPlex, clipping Glitter around the back of the head with a Pele Kick rocking the Sinful One.]
[BOOMSTICK! Brutal Superman Punch out of nowhere rocks Glitter, sending him stumbling through the ropes to the floor below. Deadeye turns,]
[Superkick by Siniestro! Right on the button sending Deadeye to the outside himself. Blackhand and Rambro quickly follow as they brawl through the ropes, each landing heavy blow after heavy blow without stopping.]
[Santiago watches, quickly heading up to the top before diving off. ]
Signal: HE'S FEELING FROGGY SCAR! Frogsplash style Crossbody wipes out everyone at ringside, but wait? What is Silas doing?
[The Sorrow not about to be outdone, is up on the top rope himself, looking back as everyone slowly stands]
[SUCH GREAT HEIGHTS! SPRINGBOARD TRUST FALL PLANCHA WIPING OUT EVERYONE AT RINGSIDE!]
[The crowd cheer as Silas pulls Glitter up to his feet, throwing him back into the ring. Glitter stumbles to his feet in the corner, pulling himself up right into]
[A TASTE OF INK! Brutal Kick to the jaw rocks Glitter, that well could be it but Silas doesn't cover, instead looking to the corner and his placed guitar.]
Black Scar: The Sorrow looking to disintegrate Glitter here.
[Silas walks over, picking up his guitar but as he turns around,]
[BUKKAKE BULLET TRAIN! Brutal Big Boot sends the guitar slamming into Silas's face, Glitter rubbing his foot into the Sorrow's face with a look of bliss on his face. But that look is quickly erased as he turns.]
[AND SLEEPS WIT' THE FISHES! CLOTHESLINE FROM HELL TURNS GLITTER INSIDE OUT!]
[Blackhand doesn't get to cover as he's dropped like a shot from a NAPALM ELBOW right to the base of the neck. Rambro breathing hard as he's whipped around]
[BOOMSTICK! Another Superman Punch hits right on the button, Rambro collapses to the mat as Deadeye covers,]
[ONE]
[............]
[..........]
[TWO]
[.........]
[SANTIAGO IS ON THE TURNBUCKLES]
[HERMOSA RUIDA! FROG SPLASH]
Signal: Santiago nails Deadeye with that Frog Splash out of nowhere, as he pulls Rambro over Deadeye
[the ruleador slides back down]
[ONE]
[...........]
[TWO]
[............]
[..............]
[THREE!!!]
Black Scar: Absolute chaos here in this trios contest as the team of Santiago Siniestro, Rambro and Glitter pick up the victory here tonight.
Winner: Rambro, Glitter & Siniestro
Soul Thief
[INT. UNKNOWN LOCATION]
[Del Toro kneels before a stone altar. Around him, hundreds of candles burn to illuminate a crypt of some description, carved out of rock. Underground.]
[Behind Del Toro, several spectral figure float. Remnants of souls he’s claimed.]
[From outside, we hear what he has been expecting.]
[The rumble of the Pale Rider coming to a halt.]
[Footsteps.]
[Then he is joined.]
Mr Grimm: “I know you’ve been expecting me. I wasn’t exactly subtle.”
[Del Toro swishes his cape to turn and face The Pale Rider.]
Santiago Del Toro: “Come to collect?”
[Grimm nods. He points towards the figures floating behind Del Toro.]
Mr Grimm: “You are a thief of souls. I’ve come to collect what is rightfully mine.”
[He steps forward. As he does so, the attention of all of the spectral beings turns towards him. All eyes are trained on The Reaper.]
Mr Grimm: “I’m taking them back. The easy way, or the hard way, that much is up to you.”
[Del Toro’s laugh echoes off the rock walls of the crypt.]
Santiago Del Toro: "If you want them, you will have to claim my soul in the process.”
[Grimm cracks his knuckles.]
Mr Grimm: “Hard way it is then.”
[He moves towards Del Toro, but the dozen spectral beings that gather behind The Soul Thief soar into the air.]
[Shrieking wildly, the very walls of the crypt seem to hum with an unknown power.]
[Mr Grimm stops, feeling the power of the stolen souls. His fist reluctantly unballs.]
Mr Grimm: “Ring of Dreams. I’m taking back that title which is rightfully mine. And I’m collecting the souls that you have stolen.”
[Grimm throws a glove on the ground before the stone altar.]
Mr Grimm: “No parlour tricks. Mano e mano. Claiming your soul will merely be icing on the cake.”
[Cut.]
VHS: Hostage II
[Later that night. The camera fades in on a dimly lit storage room. Steel bars dominate the frame. A makeshift holding cage.]
[Inside...]
[Darkwish.]
[Still wearing the heavy leather dog collar.]
[The chain attached to it rattles as he slowly gets to his feet.]
[His face is bloodied.]
[His gear hangs in tatters.]
[Every movement is painful.]
Signal: "They've kept him caged..."
Black Scar: "Like an animal."
[Footsteps echo. Academius and Jack Standard approach. Standard unlocks the cage. The steel door groans open. Darkwish immediately lunges.]
[Jack catches him with a knee to the ribs.]
[Darkwish doubles over.]
[Together, Standard and Academius drag him from the cage by the chain around his neck.]
[Darkwish coughs violently.]
[Academius straightens his jacket.]
[Calm as ever.]
Academius: "You've had time to reflect."
[A pause.]
Academius: "Time to consider your actions."
[Darkwish glares back.]
[Defiant.]
[Academius nods toward Jack Standard.]
Academius: "Here's your lesson."
[A beat.]
Academius: "If you can defeat Mr. Standard..."
[He allows the words to settle.]
Academius: "We'll release you."
[Darkwish slowly rises to his feet.]
[Still breathing heavily.]
Darkwish: "And if I don't?"
[Jack smirks.]
[Flexing the chain attached to Darkwish's collar.]
Jack Standard: "Then you stay on the leash."
Signal: "This is sick..."
Black Scar: "It's also official."
[Academius steps aside.]
[Leaving the two men facing one another.]
Academius: "You wanted the truth, Darkwish."
[A pause.]
Academius: "Earn your freedom."
[Jack removes his jacket.]
[Cracks his neck.]
[Darkwish wipes blood from his mouth.]
[Never taking his eyes off Standard.]
[An official cautiously steps into frame.]
[Looking between both men.]
Signal: "They're not waiting..."
Black Scar: "They're doing it right now!"
[The official signals for the bell.]
Signal: "It's a Dog Collar Match!"
[The chain between Darkwish and Jack Standard goes taut.]
[Neither man moves.]
[Waiting.]
[The bell rings.]
Signal: “We need to get Molvanîa PD, some security, or, hell, even a damn Ruleador to where they are!”
Black Scar: “Somebody check every dog pound in Molvanîa!”
[A battered Darkwish tugs at the leather collar fastened around his neck–]
[Standard floors him with a boot to the face!]
Jack Standard: “Bad dog!”
Black Scar: “Now rub his nose in it!”
[The sadistic second-half of DEMASQ lays into the vigilante with punches and kicks. He grabs a fistful of chain…]
[CLINK!]
[THEN WHIPS DARKWISH WITH IT!]
[Jack hurls him into a brick wall–]
[THUD!]
[Then drags him up and slams him onto the cold, hard concrete!]
[Darkwish writhes in agony.]
Signal: “Stop this - the man could be paralysed!”
[Standard scrapes a wooden chair across the floor and rests its legs across the windpipe of Darkwish!]
[He takes a seat.]
Jack Standard: “Remember how you brutalised me to try and force a confession?”
[Scarred Justice struggles.]
Jack Standard: “Well, we already know you’re guilty... So I’m just doin’ this for fun!”
Black Scar: “He may be more far gone than I realised, Sig!”
Signal: “Ya think!?”
[Jack stands, wielding the chair over his head!]
[...]
[DARKWISH TRIPS HIM WITH THE CHAIN!]
[Standard takes a hard fall. The chair clatters on top of him!]
[Darkwish rolls on top of him and wraps the chain around Jack’s throat!]
Black Scar: “Ok, this is goin’ too far!”
[Justiciero Nocturno pulls it tight, choking the life outta Backbone–]
[CRACK!]
[WOODEN RULER TO THE SKULL!]
[Darkwish slumps forwards. Academius stands over him!]
[The Professor heaves him up and holds his arms.]
Academius: “Come on, Jack!”
[Standard rises. Nursing his throat and coughing, he sizes up Darkwish…]
Signal: “Someone, please, find out where they are and send help!”
[He advances–]
[DARKWISH SNAPMARES ACADEMIUS INTO HIM!]
[They scramble to their feet–]
[The avenger uses the chain to LASSO the wooden chair, then LOBS it at DEMASQ!]
[Wood and splinters fly everywhere as they cower.]
Black Scar: “Yeah, send help - for DEMASQ!”
[Darkwish screams…]
[AND BREAKS THE CHAIN!]
[Steel links fall to the floor. DEMASQ looks at the freed Darkwish, then at each other.]
[THEY RUSH HIM–]
[DARKNESS FALLS SUPERKICK!]
[DAWN V-TRIGGER!]
Signal: “Darkwish is standing tall over his captors!”
Winner: Darkwish
VHS: Hostage III
[Post-fight. Jack Standard lies beneath Darkwish. Broken. Barely conscious. Darkwish kneels over him. Breathing like a wounded animal.]
Signal: "Darkwish is standing tall over his captors!"
Black Scar: "After everything they've put him through... I don't think this is over."
[Darkwish looks down.]
[At Jack Standard.]
[At the blood running from his nose and mouth.]
[Something snaps.]
[He grabs Standard by the shirt.]
[And drives a fist into his face.]
[CRACK.]
[Again.]
[CRACK.]
[Again.]
[CRACK.]
Signal: "Darkwish, stop!"
[He keeps punching.]
[Again.]
[Again.]
[Again.]
[The crowd falls into horrified silence.]
[Blood sprays across the canvas.]
[Standard stops moving.]
[Darkwish doesn't.]
[His fists continue rising and falling until there is nothing left to hit.]
Black Scar: "He's... he's killing him..."
[Finally...]
[Darkwish stops.]
[Jack Standard's head slumps lifelessly to one side.]
[His face is no longer recognisable.]
[Darkwish rises.]
[Chest heaving.]
[His entire forearms covered in blood.]
[He throws his head back and lets out a primal roar.]
[He spins wildly.]
[Searching.]
Darkwish: "ACADEMIUS!"
[Further along the building—]
[Academius is already retreating.]
[He doesn't run.]
[He simply walks away.]
[Without looking back.]
[Darkwish stumbles after him.]
[One step.]
[Two.]
[Then...]
[His legs give out.]
[He crashes to his knees against a wall.]
Signal: "He's exhausted!"
[Darkwish looks down.]
[At his hands.]
[They are soaked in Jack Standard's blood.]
[He stares.]
[Frozen.]
[His breathing changes.]
[Panic.]
[He grips his own head.]
[Shaking.]
Darkwish: "No..."
[A whisper.]
Darkwish: "No..."
[He looks back at Standard's motionless body.]
[Then back at the blood coating his fingers.]
[His eyes fill with fear.]
Darkwish: "What if..."
[His voice cracks.]
Darkwish: "What if they're right?"
[He squeezes his eyes shut.]
[Rocking slightly.]
[Terrified.]
[Not of Academius.]
[Not of what he's done.]
[But of what he might have done before.]
Signal: "Look at him.."For the first time... Darkwish doesn't know if he can trust himself."
Black Scar: "And that's exactly what Academius wanted."
[The camera slowly pulls back.]
[Jack Standard's lifeless body on the floor]
[Darkwish broken.]
[Academius disappearing into the darkness.]
[Fade.]
Why?
[INT. THE TEMPLE - NIGHT]
[Innocent giggling fills the air. In contrast, Silas sits, mulling over his guitar. Even more than usual, Silas wears the look of a man with the world on his shoulders.]
Signal: “One doesn’t have to look hard to find Silas. Just follow the darkness…”
Black Scar: “And the trail of depressed souls as the joy is sucked from the world?.”
Signal: “Oh, not you too…”
[Silas sighs, a heavy sigh.]
[He stands and moves towards the giggling.]
[Rounding the corner, Silas sees the source. Dolly Daydream, mid way through having the soles of her feet licked by Glitter.]
Dolly Daydream: “Okay, you win. I am ticklish. Stop, before I wet myself!”
[Glitter merely smirks at the thought.]
Dolly Daydream: “Did it just get a bit chilly in here? Somebody open a window?”
[Silas steps forward. A glint from Dolly’s wrist catches his eye. A bracelet, complete with tiny little charm of the Eiffel Tower.]
[He sighs, saddened by the image.]
Silas: “You don’t see it. Do you, Dolly?”
[Dolly just about jumps off the couch out of fright.]
Dolly Daydream: “Jeepers creepers! I did not hear you come in.”
[Glitter stands, glaring as Silas.]
Silas: “I’ve been following you.”
[The statement hangs awkwardly in the air.]
Glitter: “Creep.”
[Silas shakes his head.]
Silas: “Not like that. I’ve been watching.”
[He strums a chord. The music merely hangs in the air, changing nothing.]
Dolly Daydream: “Ooh. Are you going to play a song? Do you know Love Story?”
Silas: “I know you wear a smile, Dolly.”
[He strums again. A second time, no effect.]
Silas: “Yet I suspect it’s not joy that I see. I just need to know… why?”
[Dolly blinks blankly at him.]
Dolly Daydream: “Because Love Story is a great song?”
[Silas sighs, deeply.]
Silas: “Suffering is a natural state. Yet, you’re a victim and you remain… happy? I don’t comprehend.”
[Silas points, not to Dolly, but to Glitter.]
Silas: “It’s something else. Something symbolised by that… trinket.”
[Dolly instinctively hugs her Hardcore Championship to her chest at the word.]
Signal: “You know… I don’t think that’s the trinket Silas is referring to.”
Black Scar: “Who cares anyway, it’s all meaningless in the end.”
[Silas moves towards Dolly.]
[Glitter moves to protect Dolly. Silas pushes Glitter back, but soon gets the hint. Dolly melts into Glitter’s arms.]
Glitter: “See. She trusts Glitter.”
[Silas draws near to Glitter, whispering so only Glitter can hear him.]
Silas: “And if you were to… stop smiling?”
[Silas backs away, strumming softly.]
[Dolly nuzzles into Glitter’s neck. Glitter glowers at the door.]
Black Scar: “I always feel better when he’s not around, Sig.”
Signal: “Something tells me Silas is not done chasing that title yet.”
Black Scar: “Or finding why Dolly and Glitter are unaffected by his powers.”
[Cut.]
Family
[Edward Newton stands in the center of the ring.]
Signal: “We’re just waiting on Nox Bellator for what should be a very exciting match.”
Black Scar: “I don’t know, Sig. I think the Riddler wants to talk first.”
[Newton indeed holds a microphone.]
Edward Newton: “Family.”
[A pause.]
Edward Newton: “The great equalizer.”
[He looks into the camera.]
Edward Newton: “The rich believe wealth protects them. The powerful believe fear protects them. The intelligent believe preparation protects them.”
[A beat.]
Edward Newton: “Then someone touches their family.”
[His expression hardens.]
Edward Newton: “And suddenly, every advantage becomes meaningless.”
[Newton turns toward the video screen.]
Edward Newton: “You wanted my attention, Cube.”
[A pause.]
Edward Newton: “You have it.”
[The crowd roars.]
Edward Newton: “Tell me what you want.”
[Piano.]
[Darkness.]
[A spotlight illuminates Padre Venganza as he walks out flanked by followers.]
Signal: “What business does Padre Venganza have down here?”
Black Scar: “He knows plenty about family, Sig.”
[Padre enters the ring.]
[Newton doesn’t move.]
Padre Venganza: “You speak of family as though you have only now discovered its power. Family is not weakness. It is blood. Loyalty. Sacrifice.”
[He steps closer.]
Padre Venganza: “You need not face this alone.”
[Newton smiles faintly.]
Edward Newton: “Jensen.”
[Padre’s face changes.]
Edward Newton: “I have already seen what family means to you. What your daughter meant...”
[The crowd reacts.]
Edward Newton: “Forgive me if I decline your assistance.”
[Padre steps forward—]
[THE VIDEO SCREEN FLICKERS.]
[Dr. Cube appears.]
[Scarlett is nowhere in sight.]
Dr. Cube: “Family.”
[He tilts his head.]
Dr. Cube: “Such a useful word.”
[Newton turns fully toward the screen.]
Edward Newton: “Where is she?”
Dr. Cube: “Still asking questions as though you control when answers are given. You will wait, Edward. You will follow every instruction. And you will be grateful each time I allow Scarlett to draw another breath.”
[Newton grips the microphone tightly.]
Padre Venganza: “You hide behind a child because you know what waits for you at Ring of Dreams.”
[Cube looks toward Padre.]
Dr. Cube: “Padre Venganza.”
[A faint laugh.]
Dr. Cube: “The patriarch of a broken family.”
Padre Venganza: “At Ring of Dreams, I take your World Championship.”
Dr. Cube: “It’s all about taking with you, isn’t it? For whatever wisdom you claim to possess, you still mistake possession for control.”
[A beat.]
Dr. Cube: “You infected Nox Bellator and called it creation. You twisted a man into your image and called him family.”
[Padre’s eyes narrow.]
Dr. Cube: “But I do not create followers.”
[He leans toward the camera.]
Dr. Cube: “I create games. And when the bell rings, Padre, you will discover that faith is merely another rule I can exploit.”
Padre Venganza: “You have no understanding of faith.”
Dr. Cube: “I understand it perfectly.”
[A pause.]
Dr. Cube: “Faith is what desperate men cling to when they have run out of answers.”
[Padre steps toward the screen.]
Padre Venganza: “At Ring of Dreams, you will have your answer.”
[A beat.]
Padre Venganza: “On your knees.”
[The crowd erupts.]
[Cube slowly applauds.]
Dr. Cube: “Powerful.”
[A pause.]
Dr. Cube: “Although you may have a larger problem standing behind you.”
[Darkness.]
Signal: “What now?!”
[The lights return.]
[NOX BELLATOR STANDS IN THE RING.]
[Padre turns.]
[Nox stares directly at him.]
[Padre immediately backs through the ropes.]
Black Scar: “Padre wants no part of that infected bastard tonight!”
Signal: “But Edward Newton doesn’t have that choice!”
Signal: "Neither of these men in this upcoming contest are in their right mind, Scar."
Black Scar: "You’re not wrong there Sig. Newton’s got a niece who’s being held captive by Dr. Cube in some sort of twisted mind game. While the once sickeningly bright beacon of hope has become this cooler, dark twisted visage of what he once was."
Signal: "And these men aren’t going to end tonight’s fight until one submits to the other."
[The bell sounds and we’re underway as both men circle each other.]
[Newton shoots first shooting for a Double-Leg Takedown.]
[*KER-RAK!*]
[ROUNDHOUSE TO THE SHOULDER OF THE RIDDLER!]
[Newton falls flat as The Warrior of Darkness begins Stomping away at that shoulder.]
[In desperation and with one arm The Enigma pushes himself off the canvas and hits a battering ram like Headbutt to the groin of Nox.]
[Newton stands and grabs the doubled over Bellator setting him up...]
[RIDDLE ME THIS! - SIT OUT PILEDRIVER!]
[The Genius rolls through...]
[CRIPPLER CROSSFACE – THE QUESTION - NOX ROLLS OUT OF IT ISOLATING THE INJURED ARM OF NEWTON.]
[LAST PRAYER – FUJIWARA ARMBAR!]
[THE WARRIOR OF DARKNESS ARCHES BACK AND AS THE RULEADOR GETS DOWN TO CHECK ON THE MAN WITH ALL THE ANSWERS LOOKING FOR THE ANSWER TO JUST ONE, DOES HE SUBMIT?]
[THE RULEADOR’S PUT HIMSELF OUT OF POSITION AND NOX BELLATOR PUTS HIS FEET ON THE MIDDLE ROPE TO APPLY MORE PRESSURE!]
[NEWTON SCREAMS AND TAPS OUT BEFORE NOX BELLATOR CAN DISLOCATE HIS SHOULDER!]
Black Scar: "And Nox starts off proving he’s the superior incarnation of Bellator."
Signal: "Damn Scar, at least Lux fought for good, Nox just cheated to beat a man who’s got the weight of his kidnapped niece Scarlett who calls out for her Uncle Eddie."
Black Scar: "Excuses, excuses, Sig, Newton should be able to handle the pressure."
Winner: Nox Bellator
Knife to a Gun Fight
[Blackhand Moretti whistles Twisted Nerve as he treks through dense woodland in unsuitable attire.]
Black Scar: “Has The Boss taken up gardening, Sig!?”
Signal: “Think, Scar: who do we know that wears jungle camouflage?”
[A twig snaps under his feet.]
Signal: “Anyone else on the OSW roster would be looking over their shoulder…”
Black Scar: “He can’t show fear. The Don of Destruction commands respect. His empire would crumble if he let Rambro scare him!”
[Moretti ventures deeper.]
Blackhand Moretti: “Raaambrooo… Come out to plaaayyy-eeehhh!”
Signal: “Wait - he wants to be caught!?”
Blackhand Moretti: “Heard the reports of some bum scarin’ folks off from the woods. Figured it’d be you—”
[THWUMP!]
[Something drops down behind Moretti!]
Black Scar: “Was that a freakin’ ninja!?”
[Blackhand spins round—]
[Coming face-to-face with Rambro!]
Signal: “He must’ve been in the treetops!”
[The Last Survivor’s thousand-yard stare looks right through Moretti.]
Rambro: “You’re behind enemy lines.”
[Blackhand stands firm.]
Blackhand Moretti: “My guys are still MIA, soldier-boy.”
Rambro: “And you’re about to be KIA!”
[Rambro advances—]
[Moretti whips out his engraved, silver pistol!]
[Rambro freezes.]
Black Scar: “Quick, somebody get Siniestro - or Deadeye!”
[Blackhand chuckles.]
Blackhand Moretti: “I told you I had a bullet with your name on it. Do me a favour, Ramalam: this time, stay dead!”
[He squuueeezes the trigger…]
[RAMBRO THROWS HIS BOWIE KNIFE–]
[THUNK!]
[IT PINS THE GUN TO A TREE TRUNK, DISARMING MORETTI!]
[Blackhand sighs as Rambro steps up.]
Blackhand Moretti: “Can I get a smoke in before we do this?”
Rambro: “Go ahead. I’ll kill you long before any cancer will.”
[Moretti lights a cigar and takes a puff… Then flicks it into the dry brush!]
[WHOOSH!]
[Rambro whips his head round - his camp is on fire!]
Blackhand Moretti: “See you at Ring of Dreams, Action Man!”
[A cackling Blackhand flees as Rambro fights the flames!]
Only Fools Rush In
[INT. THE TEMPLE — LOCKER ROOM — NIGHT.]
[Edward Newton enters the locker room, still breathing heavily after his match. He stops dead in his tracks when he sees something resting on the bench.]
[Two things actually.]
[A pair of sunglasses.]
Signal: “This isn’t good.”
[Luke Storm’s sunglasses.]
[One lens is cracked.]
[Newton walks toward them.]
[Beside them sits a cellphone.]
[Luke’s cellphone.]
[The screen lights up.]
[The lock screen shows Scarlett. Bound. Gagged. Terror filling her eyes.]
[Newton freezes.]
Signal: “Oh, no…”
Black Scar: “Storm found Cube.”
[A voicemail notification appears.]
[Newton presses play.]
[Static.]
[Then Dr. Cube’s voice.]
Dr. Cube: “Only fools rush in.”
[A faint groan can be heard in the background.]
[Luke.]
Dr. Cube: “Your brother believed strength would compensate for impatience.”
[A dull THUD.]
[Luke groans again.]
[Newton grips the phone tighter.]
Dr. Cube: “He searched. He threatened. He broke every rule I gave you. And now…”
[The sound of Luke breathing heavily.]
Dr. Cube: “He is here.”
[Newton’s eyes move back to the cracked sunglasses.]
Dr. Cube: “Tell me, Edward…”
[A beat.]
Dr. Cube: “Are there any real heroes left in the world?”
[A low laugh.]
Dr. Cube: “Or merely frightened men pretending bravery will protect the people they love?”
[Luke’s voice breaks through.]
Luke Storm: “Don’t… listen…”
[A sudden impact.]
[Silence.]
[Newton’s composure shatters.]
Edward Newton: “Luke?”
Dr. Cube: “Don’t worry. This hero still lives.”
[Pause.]
Dr. Cube: “For now.”
[The message ends. Newton remains motionless. The phone trembles in his hand. Then—]
[He hurls it into the wall.]
[It explodes into pieces.]
[Newton picks up the broken sunglasses.]
[He stares at them.]
Edward Newton: “You wanted me to wait.”
[His voice turns cold.]
Edward Newton: “Now you have my complete attention.”
[Cut.]
Showdown at High Noon
[EXT. DUSTY MOLVANIAN STREET – DAY. A lonely wind whistles through the empty street. Tumbleweed rolls lazily between weathered buildings. Outside Goldman's Saloon...]
[Two men stand opposite one another.]
[Twenty paces apart.]
[Deadeye adjusts the brim of his hat.]
[His hand hovers close to his revolver.]
[Across from him...]
[Santiago Siniestro.]
[Hands relaxed at his sides.]
[Expression unreadable.]
[One pistol holstered.]
[The other hidden beneath his coat.]
Signal: "It's like stepping into the Old West."
Black Scar: "Only one of these killers is walking away."
[Deadeye spits into the dirt.]
Deadeye: "Much obliged fer comin'."
[A beat.]
Deadeye: "Been lookin' forward to this."
[Siniestro says nothing.]
[Deadeye continues.]
Deadeye: "Let's settle this proper."
[He gestures to the dusty street between them.]
Deadeye: "High noon."
[A pause.]
Deadeye: "Five paces."
[He taps the butt of his revolver.]
Deadeye: "Draw."
[Siniestro smiles faintly.]
[Then slowly shakes his head.]
Siniestro: "No."
[Deadeye raises an eyebrow.]
Siniestro: "No kill shots."
[A beat.]
Siniestro: "We draw. We fire."
[Another beat.]
Siniestro: "Then..."
[A faint grin.]
Siniestro: "We fight."
[Deadeye studies him.]
[Then slowly smiles.]
Deadeye: "Heh..."
[A nod.]
Deadeye: "Now that's a showdown."
[From the saloon... The doors swing open. A small, elderly man in a striped referee shirt steps out. A thick rulebook tucked beneath his arm.]
[He clears his throat.]
Ruleador: "Gentlemen..."
[He raises one finger.]
Ruleador: "Five paces."
[Another.]
Ruleador: "One shot."
[A final.]
Ruleador: "Then the rules end."
[Deadeye tips his hat.]
Deadeye: "Deal."
[Siniestro gives a single nod.]
[The three men take their positions.]
[The wind picks up.]
[High noon awaits.]
Black Scar: “It’s time for all four of OSW’s champions to meet face to face and see who the top dog amongst them really is.”
Signal: “I’m sure they’d all say that they are, Scar. All four of them have fought difficult battles to keep a hold of those belts, and they’re ready to show why in our main event!”
[The Ruleador calls for the bell as Del Toro, Cube, and Pixelshift stare each other down with great intensity.]
[Dolly, meanwhile, has a big grin on her face, providing a huge contrast between the trio.]
[All four of the competitors begin circling the ring and each other, waiting for someone to make the first move.]
[After a few laps around the squared circle, Player One lunges at the Doctor!]
[But the Game Master sees it coming, and nails the Glitch with a CHECKMATE spinning back elbow!]
Black Scar: “That’s going to take a massive chunk out of the health bar!”
[Pixelshift stumbles back against the ropes, allowing Cube to irish whip the Glitch into El Matador.]
[Del Toro dodges Player One on the pass, and looks to complete the CURSED CHARGE with a superkick!]
[However, Pixelshift froze mid run before the kick could connect!]
[Player One resumes running a second later with a LAG SPIKE cutter that drives El Matador into the mat!]
[Dr Cube rushes toward Pixelshift, but gets intercepted by the Dreamer with a surprise PERFECTION Codebreaker!]
Signal: “Dolly just showed the Game Master why he needs to stay focused on everyone in this match!”
[The Doctor rolls out of the ring as Del Toro and Pixelshift get back to their feet.]
[Dolly skips towards the Matador, setting him up for the CHESHIRE SNAP snapmare driver, but Santiago spins out!]
[He throws his cape over the Glitch’s head before locking Dolly in with the ETERNAL SILENCE cobra clutch!]
[Before Player One can pull the cape off himself, he’s tripped off his feet and dragged out of the ring by Cube!]
Black Scar: “Looks like the Doctor’s bringing this fight up close and personal like!”
[The Game Master kicks a blinded Glitch in the gut before locking Pix’s arm behind his back and planting him head first with a RUSSIAN ROULETTE hammerlock DDT!]
[Back in the ring, Dolly continues to struggle in the submission as Del Toro swings her from side to side.]
[Cube slides back in the ring and charges at both of them.]
[Del Toro lets go of the hold as Dolly ducks under a wild lariat from the Doctor, which the Matador eats instead!]
[The Dreamer grabs the Game Master by the arm and spins him around into an OFF WITH IT ripcord knee!]
Signal: “This match is Dolly’s to win!”
[Cube looks dazed as Dolly traps him in a front headlock.]
[She attempts to hoist him up for the PORCELAIN SHATTER DDT, but Cube hits a double leg takedown!]
[He kicks her right in the face before turning her on her stomach for the PUZZLE LOCK Regal Stretch!]
[He wrenches the hold in tight, seemingly unaware that Pixelshift has jumped off the top rope!]
Signal: “SKYDIVER PRESS! That senton bomb crushes Dolly’s back as Cube moves out of the way!”
[Player One gets up to a knee after nailing the senton.]
[He’s entirely unaware that Del Toro is back to his feet, lining him up for the kill!]
[PHANTOM CORONADA!]
[The busaiku knee makes its mark on the Glitch’s head!]
[Cube rolls up Del Toro from behind!]
[Handful of tights!]
[One!]
[Two!!]
[Three!!!]
Black Scar: “The Game Master proving that intellect is superior here tonight!”
Winner: Dr. Cube
Ring of Dreams
[Dr. Cube remains inside the ring, World Championship clutched against his chest.]
Signal: “What a battle we’ve just witnessed!”
Black Scar: “And Cube’s still standing.”
[Cube raises the championship—]
[EDWARD NEWTON SLIDES INTO THE RING. HE ATTACKS CUBE FROM BEHIND.]
Signal: “NEWTON!”
Black Scar: “HE’S DONE WAITING!”
[Newton drives Cube into the corner.]
[Left hands.]
[Right hands.]
[Every strike filled with rage.]
Edward Newton: “WHERE ARE THEY?!”
[Cube covers up. Newton pulls him out of the corner. He hooks Cube’s head.]
Signal: “NEVERMIND!”
[Newton prepares to drive Cube into the canvas—]
[PADRE VENGANZA STRIKES.]
[He clubs Newton from behind, naking the Riddler drop Cube and collapse.]
Signal: “PADRE VENGANZA JUST SAVED DR. CUBE!”
Black Scar: “He didn’t save Cube! He protected his own title match!”
[Padre drags Newton upright.]
Padre Venganza: “You should have accepted my help when it was offered.”
[Newton rolls toward the ropes as Cube watches from the corner.]
[Amused.]
[Padre turns toward him. The World Championship rests between them.]
[Then—]
[THE LIGHTS GO OUT.]
Signal: “Not again!”
[The lights return and NOX BELLATOR STANDS BEHIND PADRE.]
[Padre turns—]
[NOX LAUNCHES HIM ACROSS THE RING.]
Signal: “NOX BELLATOR JUST PLANTED PADRE!”
[Nox charges—]
[ZZZZT!]
[A burst of electricity. Nox’s body locks. He collapses.]
[Dr. Cube stands behind him.]
[A taser in his hand.]
Black Scar: “CUBE JUST DROPPED NOX!”
[Cube looks down at him. Then slowly steps over Edward Newton. Newton reaches for Cube’s ankle.]
[Cube pulls free without looking down.]
[He approaches Padre.]
[Padre leaves the corner.]
[They meet in the center of the ring.]
[Face to face.]
[The World Championship on the ground between them.]
[Newton crawls toward Cube. Nox twitches on the canvas. Neither Cube nor Padre looks away.]
Signal: “At Ring of Dreams, these two men collide for the greatest prize in OSW!”
Black Scar: “Cube’s got Newton hunting him, Nox hunting Padre, and Scarlett and Luke Storm somewhere nobody can find!”
Signal: “But none of that will matter when the bell rings!”
[Padre points at the championship.]
[Cube picks it up and raises it between them.]
[The crowd rises.]
[Neither man backs down.]
Signal: “Dr. Cube!”
Black Scar: “Padre Venganza!”
Signal: “The World Championship!”
Black Scar: “RING OF DREAMS!”
[Cube and Padre remain nose-to-nose.]
[The Temple erupts.]
[Fade to black.]