Aired - February 6, 2026
(Black screen. The sound of a heavy book opening. A candle ignites. Ink creeps across parchment like it’s alive.)
(A choir hums low. A single bell tolls.)
Voice-over (smooth, ominous):
“Once upon a time… they told you monsters weren’t real.”
(beat)
“Here… they win matches.”
(The words burn into the screen like a cursed fairytale title card.)
NPCW: DARK FABLE
Voice-over:
“This is the MYTHIC Division.”
“Welcome… to DARK FABLE.”
SIGNATURE MONTAGE
1) Universal Tag Champions — Hans Trapp & Knecht Ruprecht
(Torchlight. Two silhouettes. Titles glint like weapons.)
Hans Trapp and Knecht Ruprecht stalk to the ring—then a violent cut: a ruthless, synchronized finish. One holds the opponent in place; the other strikes like judgment. They raise the belts slowly, not celebrating—claiming.
2) Sandman
(An hourglass spills sand upward.)
Sandman snaps into motion—cold precision. A sudden, nightmare-fast impact drops his opponent. He stands still as the camera jitters, like reality itself is afraid to focus on him.
3) Frankenstein’s Monster
(Lightning flash. Thunder hit.)
Frankenstein’s Monster absorbs shots that should end anyone—then surges forward and crushes a foe with a catastrophic slam. The ring shakes. The crowd reacts like they’ve seen a myth step off the page.
4) Robin Hood
(A streak like an arrow across the screen transitions the shot.)
Robin Hood slips a strike by inches and counters with surgical speed—clean, heroic, efficient. He points straight into the hard cam, as if calling his next target.
5) Hansel
(Breadcrumbs scatter across the canvas—then dissolve into smoke.)
Hansel fights like someone who learned survival the hard way—quick hands, sharper instincts. A sudden finishing burst flips the match in a heartbeat.
6) Snow White
(Soft light… then a hard snap to impact.)
Snow White shows heart and grit—turning a moment of danger into a clean counter and decisive strike. The fairy tale isn’t fragile here. It fights.
7) Lady Frost, Snow Queen
(Sound drops out. Breath fogs the air.)
Lady Frost moves with chilling control—elegant, merciless. A slick takedown into a finishing hold—she tightens it slowly, eyes calm as winter.
8) Gretel
(A childlike melody warps into something darker.)
Gretel explodes with intensity—fast, determined, ruthless when it counts. She drives through a final sequence like she’s escaping a trap.
(Choir rises. War drums join. The arena looks like a cathedral of combat under dark lighting.)
Voice-over:
“This isn’t the North.”
“This isn’t the light.”
“In DARK FABLE… the story doesn’t end happily.”
(beat)
“It ends… with a winner.”
“This… is DARK FABLE.”
The camera glides across the Camelot Coliseum, torchlight catching handmade signs and worn fabric. The noise is heavy, purposeful—not festive.
Near the ramp, a sea of green and black. Fans wear hooded cloaks over worn Robin Hood shirts, arrows stenciled across the chest. Cardboard longbows are raised overhead. Signs read “NO KINGS. NO CHAINS.” and “OUTLAWS ENDURE.” A chant rolls through the section, steady and defiant.
Cut to the opposite side—black and rust-red dominate the frame. Supporters of The Broken Crown wear cracked-crown insignias painted onto leather jackets. One sign, jagged lettering: “INEVITABILITY.” Another: “THE CROWN WAS NEVER SACRED.” They don’t chant loudly. They stare.
Lower bowl—gold, white, and steel blue. Camelot loyalists stand shoulder to shoulder. Replica swords rise and fall in unison. Shirts read “THE KING ENDURES” and “HONOR STILL STANDS.” A massive banner stretches across three rows: “CAM E LOT.”
Ringside, the energy sharpens. Neon accents. Denim vests. Torn fishnets. Blonde Bombshells supporters are loud and relentless. Two fans hoist a sign shaped like a split crown: “STILL CHAMPS.” Another flashes under the hard cam: “COUNT US OUT? TRY AGAIN.”
High in the rafters, something different. No shirts. No logos. Just dark veils, faces partially obscured. A single sign rises slowly, written in charcoal: “THE VEIL WATCHES.” The crowd around them shifts uneasily.
The camera cuts to the desk.
Julian Ward:
“Last week, Dark Fable opened its road to Oathbound—and the cost was immediate.”
Footage rolls in rhythm with his words.
Julian Ward:
“Mordred survived power, interference, and endurance to advance in the Mythic Crown Tournament. Morgana Le Fay followed—tightening the grip of the Broken Crown.”
A flash of the sharpshooter. Marion fading.
Julian Ward:
“Frankenstein’s Monster dismantled Sir Lancelot with calculated brutality. King Arthur endured a war of attrition to keep Camelot standing.”
Arthur’s pinfall. Merlin at his side.
Julian Ward:
“And in the main event, Robin Hood outlasted Sandman—not with triumph, but with survival.”
Robin seated in the ring. Breathing. Marked.
Brick Brody:
“Everybody paid somethin’. Some folks just paid less than others.”
Julian nods once.
Julian Ward:
“The tournament narrowed. Lines were drawn. And no one left untouched.”
The camera returns to the ring.
Alton Bell stands at center. Still. Controlled. The arena quiets without instruction.
Alton Bell:
“At Oathbound, the Eternal Flame will not be won by destiny.”
A pause.
“It will be won by elimination.”
A low murmur spreads.
“Ten competitors. One Battle Royal.”
He looks out over the crowd.
“Five names are already bound to the fire: Black Knight, Sinbad, The Huntsman, Tin Man, and Dragon King.”
The crowd reacts in fractured waves.
“The remaining five will be earned.”
He turns slightly.
“Tonight—two qualifying trials.”
A beat.
“Cheshire Cat versus Takuma Ryujin.
And Raigen The Blood Oni versus Lion.”
Bell’s tone hardens.
“Next week—the four who failed to advance in the Mythic Crown Tournament will face judgment together.”
He names them without emphasis.
“Sandman. Heracles. Hansel. Sir Lancelot.”
“One survives.”
“The final two places will be claimed in the weeks ahead.”
Bell steps back.
Julian Ward:
“The Eternal Flame does not reward promise. It removes it.”
Brick Brody:
“Battle royals tell the truth, Julian. Somebody panics. Somebody gets dumped.”
Julian transitions, measured.
Julian Ward:
“Tonight’s trials are set. Cheshire Cat versus Takuma Ryujin. Raigen the Blood Oni against Lion. A non-title reckoning—Lilith versus Mother Earth.”
A ripple through the crowd.
“The Blonde Bombshells defend the North Star Tag Team Championships against the Queens of Punishment.”
Brick exhales through his nose.
Brick Brody:
“That one’s gonna leave marks.”
Julian finishes.
Julian Ward:
“And in the Mythic Crown Tournament Semifinal—Mordred versus Robin Hood. The winner advances to the finals at Oathbound.”
A final note.
Julian Ward:
“Plus—later tonight—Dave ‘The Brute’ Kent joins us for The Bunker, with an interview featuring Mordred.”
Brick Brody:
“Yeah. That won’t be polite.”
Julian Ward:
“Before we turn the page to tonight’s card, we do need to address the absence everyone in this arena — and watching at home — is already feeling. Last week, it was announced that the Universal Champion, Mean Jack Mason, would be here tonight.”
Brick Brody:
“Was supposed to be. Big difference, Julian.”
Julian Ward:
“After a successful title defense on Polar Power Episode 040, Mason was attacked — blindsided — by an unknown assailant. An assault that left the champion unable to travel, and unable to appear here tonight.”
Brick Brody:
“That wasn’t a mugging. That wasn’t chaos. That was a message.”
Julian Ward:
“At this time, details on Mason’s condition remain limited. We’ve been told only that he is under medical supervision, and that further updates will be shared as soon as they’re available.”
Brick Brody:
“Funny thing about messages, Julian — you don’t send one unless you’re planning the next move.”
Julian Ward:
“And whoever struck Mean Jack Mason didn’t just take a shot at a champion… they disrupted the balance of power across NPCW.”
Brick Brody:
“Or corrected it.”
(A brief beat. The Dark Fable logo looms large.)
Julian Ward:
“Dark Fable moves forward tonight — but the shadow hanging over this company just got a lot longer.”
Brick Brody:
“And shadows don’t scare champions. They hunt them.”
The camera cuts back to the crowd—signs raised, colors clashing, the Veil unmoving above it all.
The bell tolls once.
Segment ends.
Entrances & Introductions
Louie Linville stands perfectly centered in the ring, torchlight reflecting off the Eternal Flame emblem.
Louie Linville:
“The following contest is an Eternal Flame Qualifying Match.
There is no time limit.
There must be a winner.”
Cheshire Cat slinks onto the stage, posture loose, grin fixed, movements deliberately off-rhythm. Mad Hatter trails behind, whispering nonsense and tugging at his own sleeves.
Julian Ward:
“Cheshire Cat rejects structure entirely. That unpredictability has carried him into dangerous territory.”
Brick Brody:
“He’s tryin’ to make this ugly early. I respect that.”
Crimson and jade lighting cut through the smoke as Takuma Ryujin emerges. Calm. Focused. Lady Ayame Ryu follows one step behind, hands folded, eyes locked on the ring.
Julian Ward:
“Takuma Ryujin represents discipline sharpened into belief.”
Brick Brody:
“That kid’s centered. That’s bad news.”
Linville raises the microphone once more.
Louie Linville:
“Introducing first… accompanied by Mad Hatter… CHESHIRE CAT.”
“And his opponent… of the Shadow of the Dragon’s Veil… accompanied by Lady Ayame Ryu… TAKUMA RYUJIN.”
The bell rings.
Minute 1
Cheshire Cat shoots in immediately, pulling Takuma Ryujin to the mat and wrenching back into a Fujiwara Armbar applied to Takuma’s right arm.
Julian Ward:
“Cheshire Cat attacking the limb right out of the gate.”
Brick Brody:
“Twist it. Make him feel it.”
Takuma Ryujin fights toward the ropes, grimacing as he forces the break.
Minute 2
Cheshire Cat leaps backward from the ropes, crashing down with a Coffin Drop onto Takuma’s chest. Takuma rolls through the impact and counters, lifting Cheshire Cat into a Northern Lights Suplex, bridging tightly.
Julian Ward:
“Risk answered with precision.”
Brick Brody:
“Neck first. Good.”
Minute 3
Cheshire Cat snaps Takuma Ryujin forward with a Hurricanrana, sending him tumbling across the canvas.
Julian Ward:
“Speed continuing to dictate the pace.”
Brick Brody:
“Don’t let him breathe.”
Minute 4
Cheshire Cat launches again with another Coffin Drop, but Takuma absorbs it and immediately responds, hoisting Cheshire Cat into a Bridging Dragon Suplex, neck snapping down into the mat.
Julian Ward:
“Takuma Ryujin turning momentum into damage.”
Brick Brody:
“That’ll straighten anybody out.”
Minute 5
The match slows just long enough for Mad Hatter to stagger onto the apron, babbling and shoving at ‘Honest’ Abe. As the referee is distracted, Takuma Ryujin drives a Kamigoye knee strike into Cheshire Cat’s face.
Julian Ward:
“That interference almost backfired catastrophically.”
Brick Brody:
“Almost don’t count.”
Minute 6
Mad Hatter continues his taunts. Cheshire Cat capitalizes, snapping Takuma down and hooking the leg for a pin attempt.
One…
Two…
Takuma Ryujin kicks out.
Julian Ward:
“Too early.”
Brick Brody:
“Way too early.”
Minute 7
Cheshire Cat regains control, flipping Takuma Ryujin again with a Hurricanrana, maintaining speed over power.
Julian Ward:
“Cheshire Cat keeping Takuma off balance.”
Brick Brody:
“That only works so long.”
Minute 8
Cheshire Cat plants Takuma Ryujin with a Standing Diamond Dust, driving his face into the mat. Lady Ayame Ryu rises and signals calmly from ringside. Takuma steadies.
Cheshire Cat hooks the leg.
One…
Two…
Takuma kicks out.
Julian Ward:
“Guidance from the Dragon’s Veil.”
Brick Brody:
“Sometimes you just need a reminder.”
Minute 9
Cheshire Cat snaps off another Hurricanrana, forcing Takuma back to the corner.
Julian Ward:
“Cheshire Cat doubling down on speed.”
Brick Brody:
“Patterns get punished.”
Minute 10
Takuma Ryujin surges forward, blasting Cheshire Cat with a flurry of Dash Middle Kicks, hammering the chest and jaw.
Julian Ward:
“That’s the shift.”
Brick Brody:
“Now he’s hittin’ back.”
Minute 11
Cheshire Cat rebounds, once again flipping Takuma Ryujin with a Hurricanrana, refusing to slow the pace.
Julian Ward:
“Refusing to concede control.”
Brick Brody:
“Or refusing to learn.”
Minute 12
Cheshire Cat fires a Shotgun Front Dropkick, but Takuma Ryujin absorbs the impact, planting his feet and nullifying the attack.
Julian Ward:
“Neutralized.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s strength.”
Minute 13
Cheshire Cat drives Takuma Ryujin down with a Yoshi Tonic, but Takuma immediately responds, firing back with Dash Middle Kicks to the ribs.
Julian Ward:
“This has become attrition.”
Brick Brody:
“And attrition favors the mean.”
Minute 14
Cheshire Cat leaps onto Takuma Ryujin’s back, locking in a Rear Naked Choke. Takuma powers forward and counters, hoisting Cheshire Cat and drilling him with a Super Spike Piledriver.
Julian Ward:
“Submission countered with violence.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s the answer.”
Minute 15
Cheshire Cat again attempts the Rear Naked Choke, but Takuma Ryujin pries the grip loose and forces separation.
Julian Ward:
“Takuma refusing to fade.”
Brick Brody:
“He’s done playin’.”
Minute 16
Cheshire Cat snaps another Hurricanrana, but Takuma Ryujin immediately answers, lifting him into a Golden Star Powerbomb.
Cover.
One…
Two…
Cheshire Cat kicks out.
Julian Ward:
“Takuma Ryujin inches from qualification.”
Brick Brody:
“Stay on him!”
Minute 17
Cheshire Cat fires a Shotgun Front Dropkick, but Takuma Ryujin absorbs it and answers with another Super Spike Piledriver, spiking Cheshire Cat hard.
Julian Ward:
“Damage accumulating fast.”
Brick Brody:
“Good.”
Minute 18
Mad Hatter scrambles again, confusing the referee with bizarre poetry. Takuma Ryujin remains focused, shaking it off.
Julian Ward:
“The chaos no longer matters.”
Brick Brody:
“Dragon don’t care.”
Minute 19
Cheshire Cat drags Takuma Ryujin down into another Fujiwara Armbar, but Takuma breaks free with Dash Middle Kicks, forcing separation.
Julian Ward:
“Submission denied again.”
Brick Brody:
“He’s hurtin’ now.”
Minute 20
Cheshire Cat lands a Shotgun Front Dropkick, but Takuma Ryujin fires back immediately with a Kamigoye.
Cover.
One…
Two…
Cheshire Cat kicks out.
Julian Ward:
“Cheshire Cat survives—barely.”
Brick Brody:
“He’s borrowin’ time.”
Minute 21
Takuma Ryujin attempts another Golden Star Powerbomb, but Cheshire Cat reverses briefly before being shut down.
Julian Ward:
“Desperation everywhere.”
Brick Brody:
“Finish him.”
Minute 22
Cheshire Cat fires another Shotgun Front Dropkick, but Takuma Ryujin absorbs it again, refusing to move.
Julian Ward:
“Momentum slipping away.”
Brick Brody:
“It’s gone.”
Minute 23
Cheshire Cat snaps off one last Hurricanrana. Takuma Ryujin answers immediately with a Northern Lights Suplex, rolling through with authority.
Julian Ward:
“Takuma Ryujin asserting control.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s dominance.”
Minute 24
Takuma Ryujin steps in and drives a final Kamigoye knee strike into Cheshire Cat’s face.
Cover.
One…
Two…
Three.
The bell rings.
Julian Ward:
“Takuma Ryujin endures chaos, interference, and exhaustion—and qualifies for the Eternal Flame.”
Brick Brody:
“Cat ran outta lives.”
Takuma Ryujin rises slowly. Lady Ayame Ryu inclines her head once. Mad Hatter stands frozen at ringside.
Julian Ward:
“The Dragon’s Veil advances. The Eternal Flame claims another name.”
TAKUMA RYUJIN DEFEATS CHESHIRE CAT VIA PINFALL AT THE 24-MINUTE MARK — KAMIGOYE.
Takuma Ryujin qualifies for the Eternal Flame Battle Royal at Oathbound.
The stone corridor is dim, torchlight bending along the walls. The sound of the arena feels distant—muffled, irrelevant.
Hana Nakamura stands composed, microphone steady.
Flanking her are the Queens of Punishment—Crimson Viper and Dark Duchess. Both are motionless, eyes forward, expressions carved from intent.
Hovering just behind them, rocking slightly on his heels, is Mad Hatter, already muttering under his breath.
Hana begins.
Hana Nakamura:
“Crimson Viper. Dark Duchess. The North Star Tag Team Champions—Blonde Bombshells—retained their titles last week after a count-out loss to the Queens of Despair. But next, they face you. What does this title opportunity represent for the Queens of Punishment?”
Crimson Viper steps half a pace forward. Her voice is low. Flat.
Crimson Viper:
“It represents inevitability.”
Mad Hatter suddenly leans into frame.
Mad Hatter:
“Oh! Inevitability is my favorite word. It sounds like falling down stairs—inev-it-abil-i-ty!”
Crimson Viper does not look at him.
Crimson Viper:
“The Bombshells survived Despair because the rules interrupted the damage.”
Mad Hatter nods vigorously.
Mad Hatter:
“Rules! Lovely things. Very bendy. Like spoons!”
Dark Duchess turns her head slightly.
Dark Duchess:
“Enough.”
Mad Hatter freezes. Smiles. Slowly backs up one step.
Dark Duchess refocuses on Hana.
Dark Duchess:
“We did not benefit from that result. We observed it.”
She folds her hands.
Dark Duchess:
“The champions learned nothing—except that the clock can save them.”
Mad Hatter raises a finger, unable to resist.
Mad Hatter:
“Clocks lie too! They go in circles and pretend they’re going somewhere!”
Crimson Viper finally cuts him a look—cold, warning.
Crimson Viper:
“You are testing my patience.”
Mad Hatter clasps his hands behind his back.
Mad Hatter:
“Testing is important. Builds character. Or breaks it. Usually breaks it.”
Hana steadies the mic.
Hana Nakamura:
“Alice and Dorothy say their unity is what makes them champions. That cohesion carried them through Despair. How do you plan to deal with that?”
Dark Duchess answers immediately.
Dark Duchess:
“Unity fails when pressure is applied unevenly.”
A beat.
Dark Duchess:
“We do not chase both targets at once.”
Mad Hatter tilts his head.
Mad Hatter:
“Split the pair! Like biscuits! One crumbs, one cries.”
Crimson Viper exhales sharply.
Crimson Viper:
“We are not the Queens of Despair.”
She looks directly into the camera.
Crimson Viper:
“They isolate with cruelty. We isolate with intent.”
Hana nods, tension visible.
Hana Nakamura:
“And if the Blonde Bombshells believe they’ve already seen the worst this division can offer?”
Dark Duchess steps closer, voice almost conversational.
Dark Duchess:
“Then they are unprepared for punishment.”
Mad Hatter claps once—too loud.
Mad Hatter:
“Punishment! My favorite part!”
Crimson Viper turns fully toward him now.
Crimson Viper:
“One more word.”
Mad Hatter presses his lips together, miming a zipper… then makes a key-turning sound anyway.
Dark Duchess delivers the final line, eyes locked on the lens.
Dark Duchess:
“Champions celebrate survival.”
A pause.
Dark Duchess:
“We end it.”
The Queens of Punishment step past Hana and disappear into shadow. Mad Hatter lingers, leaning toward the camera.
Mad Hatter:
“No counting next time…”
He skips after them, humming off-key.
Hana watches them go, unsettled but composed.
Torchlight flickers.
Entrances & Introductions
Louie Linville remains centered in the ring, voice steady, ritualistic.
Louie Linville:
“The following contest is an Eternal Flame Qualifying Match.
There is no time limit.
There must be a winner.”
The lights deepen to crimson. Raigen the Blood Oni emerges slowly, shoulders hunched, eyes fixed forward. Lord Kurogami follows, masked, silent—his presence unsettling rather than loud.
Julian Ward:
“Raigen the Blood Oni does not rush violence. He lets it settle.”
Brick Brody:
“Guy like that ain’t lookin’ for a fight. He’s lookin’ for ownership.”
The lighting shifts to gold and white. Lion steps through the curtain, chest bare, posture proud. He beats his fist once against his heart before advancing.
Julian Ward:
“Lion represents strength without compromise.”
Brick Brody:
“Yeah—but strength still gets tested.”
Linville raises the mic again.
Louie Linville:
“Introducing first… accompanied by Lord Kurogami… RAIGEN THE BLOOD ONI.”
“And his opponent… of OZ… LION.”
The bell rings.
Minute 1
Raigen the Blood Oni immediately pulls Lion into a DEMON SLEEPER (Maniac Sleeper) applied from behind, forearm cinched under the jaw.
Julian Ward:
“Raigen targeting breath and will.”
Brick Brody:
“Choke him till he remembers fear.”
Lion stays on his feet, absorbing the pressure.
Minute 2
Raigen drags Lion down and traps the leg, applying a grounded leglock to Lion’s right knee.
Julian Ward:
“Systematic. He’s dismantling the base.”
Brick Brody:
“Take the legs, the roar disappears.”
Lion grits through it, refusing to submit.
Minute 3
Raigen releases and snaps a front kick into Lion’s chest, driving him backward.
Julian Ward:
“Striking to reinforce control.”
Brick Brody:
“Every shot counts.”
Minute 4
Raigen reapplies the DEMON SLEEPER, but Lion surges forward, breaking free and leaping to the top rope—crashing down with a Lion’s Leap (top-rope splash) onto Raigen’s torso.
Julian Ward:
“Explosive resistance.”
Brick Brody:
“Big man flies. That’ll do damage.”
Minute 5
Raigen again cinches the DEMON SLEEPER, squeezing tight. Lion answers with a Brainbuster, spiking Raigen onto the mat. Raigen crawls back, re-strapping the sleeper.
Julian Ward:
“Submission versus impact.”
Brick Brody:
“And Lion refuses to quit.”
Lion powers free once more.
Minute 6
Lion claws at Raigen’s face with a Courageous Claw, forcing separation.
Julian Ward:
“Lion fighting back with ferocity.”
Brick Brody:
“Dig deep.”
Minute 7
Lion hammers Raigen with knife-edge chops, each echoing through the arena.
Julian Ward:
“Momentum turning.”
Brick Brody:
“Hit him again.”
Minute 8
Lion throws Raigen over the ropes. As the referee turns, Lord Kurogami fixes him with a chilling Oni’s Gaze, slowing the count. Raigen scrambles back in at nine.
Julian Ward:
“Interference buys survival.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s how corners work.”
Minute 9
Lion locks in a Full Nelson from behind, wrenching Raigen’s shoulders back.
Julian Ward:
“Lion testing the spine.”
Brick Brody:
“Make him bend.”
Raigen refuses to submit.
Minute 10
Kurogami again distracts the referee. Lion drives Raigen down with a bodyslam, asserting control.
Julian Ward:
“Strength asserting itself.”
Brick Brody:
“Keep him grounded.”
Minute 11
Another distraction—Whispered Curse from Kurogami. Lion throws Raigen out again, but Raigen slides back in quickly.
Julian Ward:
“The margins are razor-thin now.”
Brick Brody:
“Somebody’s about to break.”
Minute 12
Raigen throws Lion out of the ring. Lion answers from the floor, swiping with another Courageous Claw, then barely beats the count back in.
Julian Ward:
“Both men living on borrowed time.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s the fun part.”
Minute 13
Raigen traps Lion again, applying an Abdominal Stretch, wrenching the torso sideways. Raigen hooks a quick pin—
One… Two—kickout.
Julian Ward:
“Pressure without panic.”
Brick Brody:
“Don’t rush it.”
Minute 14
Lion rallies, lifting Raigen and drilling him with a Brainbuster, spiking him clean.
Julian Ward:
“That shook the Oni.”
Brick Brody:
“Now finish him.”
Minute 15
Raigen answers by dragging Lion back down into another leglock, twisting hard. He tries for another pin—
One—kickout.
Julian Ward:
“Raigen staying committed to the damage.”
Brick Brody:
“He’s playin’ the long game.”
Minute 16
Raigen plants Lion with a Piledriver, but Lion answers instantly—springing up to the ropes and crashing down with another Lion’s Leap.
Raigen covers—
One… Two—kickout.
Julian Ward:
“This is becoming a war of endurance.”
Brick Brody:
“Somebody’s lungs are failin’.”
Minute 17
Kurogami reveals the Mask of Wrath, threatening the referee. Lion fires a Spinning Heel Kick, snapping Raigen’s head aside.
Julian Ward:
“Lion refusing to be distracted.”
Brick Brody:
“Good instinct.”
Minute 18
Lion slams Raigen again with a bodyslam and covers—
One… Two—kickout.
Julian Ward:
“Raigen will not stay down.”
Brick Brody:
“Not yet.”
Minute 19
Raigen traps the arm, applying a straight armbar to Lion’s left arm, but Lion answers with more knife-edge chops, forcing separation.
Julian Ward:
“Submission denied—but damage done.”
Brick Brody:
“Arms get heavy.”
Minute 20
Raigen throws Lion out again. Lion scrambles back by four.
Julian Ward:
“Both men emptying the tank.”
Brick Brody:
“This is where it ends.”
Minute 21
Raigen re-applies the leglock, twisting. Lion answers with chops—but slower now.
Julian Ward:
“Mobility fading.”
Brick Brody:
“Good.”
Minute 22
Another leglock from Raigen, Lion claws at the face again but cannot fully escape.
Julian Ward:
“The Oni tightening the vise.”
Brick Brody:
“Break him.”
Minute 23
Raigen finally drags Lion down and locks in the DEMON SLEEPER (Maniac Sleeper), fully strapped in at center ring. Lion fights—then fades.
Lion taps.
The bell rings.
Julian Ward:
“Raigen the Blood Oni survives power, punishment, and resistance—and qualifies for the Eternal Flame.”
Brick Brody:
“Lion roared till the air ran out.”
Raigen releases the hold slowly. Lord Kurogami steps beside him, silent, satisfied.
Julian Ward:
“The Oni advances. Another place in the Eternal Flame is claimed.”
RAIGEN THE BLOOD ONI DEFEATS LION VIA SUBMISSION AT THE 23-MINUTE MARK — DEMON SLEEPER (MANIAC SLEEPER).
Raigen the Blood Oni qualifies for the Eternal Flame Battle Royal at Oathbound.
The camera drifts through the backstage corridors—stone walls, low torchlight, the sound of the arena dulled and distant.
It stops short.
Hana Nakamura is standing close to Lord Kurogami.
No audio.
Only body language.
Hana grips her microphone with both hands, knuckles pale. She nods too quickly. Her eyes flick once down the corridor—as if measuring distance, or escape. There is fear there. Controlled, but unmistakable.
Kurogami stands perfectly still. Mask forward. Shoulders squared. When he speaks, it is calm. Absolute. Not a threat—an instruction.
Hana swallows. Nods again.
The exchange lasts only seconds.
Kurogami steps past her without hesitation. Hana exhales sharply, steadying herself against the wall for just a moment before catching herself—professional instinct snapping back into place.
The camera continues its slow scan.
Further down the corridor, half-concealed behind a stone arch, Lady Ayame Ryu watches. Her posture is composed, but her eyes are sharp—tracking everything.
Footsteps approach.
Takuma Ryujin steps into frame beside her. He follows her gaze to Hana, then speaks quietly—in Japanese.
Takuma Ryujin (Japanese):
(Is Hana all right?)
Ayame does not answer immediately. Her jaw tightens. Then, just as softly—
Lady Ayame Ryu (Japanese):
(No. It’s much worse than we thought.)
She turns to face him fully.
Lady Ayame Ryu (Japanese):
(We must contact the elders.)
Takuma nods once. No surprise—only resolve.
Without another word, the two turn and walk down the corridor together, their silhouettes swallowed by shadow.
The camera lingers for a beat—then cuts away.
End Scene.
Entrances & Introductions
Louie Linville stands motionless at center ring, voice solemn.
Louie Linville:
“The following contest is scheduled for one fall.”
The lights fall to a bruised violet. Lilith emerges first, championship belt slung over her shoulder like a warning rather than a prize. Grinch Heyman trails behind her, eyes darting, phone already in hand.
Julian Ward:
“Lilith does not defend the Queen of the North Championship tonight—but she defends her position atop the hierarchy.”
Brick Brody:
“Back in my day, champions fought everybody. Didn’t hide behind contracts and fine print. I like that she showed up mean.”
The arena lighting shifts—earth tones, green and gold. Mother Earth steps through slowly, deliberate, each footfall heavy.
Julian Ward:
“Mother Earth is resilience made flesh. She doesn’t rush. She endures.”
Brick Brody:
“Yeah? Endurance is what you say right before somebody knocks your teeth loose.”
The bell rings.
Minute 1
Mother Earth scoops Lilith up and drives her face-first into the mat with an Alley-Oop Facebuster applied to Lilith, snapping her momentum immediately.
Julian Ward:
“Mother Earth striking first.”
Brick Brody:
“Good. Hit her before she starts thinkin’.”
Minute 2
Lilith answers with an ABYSSAL SLAM, sitting out hard—but Mother Earth rolls through and traps Lilith in a Surfboard stretch, pulling back on the arms.
Julian Ward:
“Control traded instantly.”
Brick Brody:
“That stretch’ll make you see childhood memories.”
Minute 3
Lilith snaps Mother Earth down with an Atomic Drop to Hell, but Mother Earth pops right back up and answers with another Alley-Oop Facebuster, planting Lilith again.
Julian Ward:
“No hesitation.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s how you fight—no breathin’ room.”
Minute 4
Heyman whispers something sharp from the floor. Mother Earth answers with a Forearm Smash to Lilith’s jaw, rocking her backward.
Julian Ward:
“Heyman already involved.”
Brick Brody:
“Good managers earn their paycheck.”
Minute 5
Mother Earth hooks Lilith for a Double Chickenwing Facebuster, but Lilith wriggles free and fires a DREAD KICK—only for Mother Earth to block and hammer her with another Forearm Smash.
Julian Ward:
“Neither woman giving ground.”
Brick Brody:
“This ain’t ballet. This is a bar fight in slow motion.”
Minute 6
Lilith catches Mother Earth mid-movement and whips her over with a Dark Whirlwind (tilt-a-whirl headscissors), sending her skidding across the mat.
Julian Ward:
“Lilith changing the tempo.”
Brick Brody:
“Spin her till she forgets which way’s up.”
Minute 7
Heyman taunts from ringside. Mother Earth answers with another Forearm Smash, but Lilith absorbs it, eyes narrowing.
Julian Ward:
“The champion refusing to fold.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s pride. And pride hurts later.”
Minute 8
Lilith lifts Mother Earth for a Vertical Suplex, but Mother Earth blocks, grounding her weight and neutralizing the lift.
Julian Ward:
“Mother Earth shutting down the power.”
Brick Brody:
“Dead weight’s hard to move. I’ve been there.”
Minute 9
Lilith charges and crushes Mother Earth with a Running Big Boot, then hooks the leg.
One…
Two…
Kickout.
Julian Ward:
“Near fall.”
Brick Brody:
“Should’ve stomped her first.”
Minute 10
Lilith spins Mother Earth again with a Dark Whirlwind, but Mother Earth answers immediately, driving Lilith down with another Alley-Oop Facebuster.
Julian Ward:
“Momentum refuses to settle.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s when matches get ugly.”
Minute 11
Another Dark Whirlwind by Lilith—this time Mother Earth counters with a Powerslam, flattening her and going for the cover.
One…
Two…
Kickout.
Julian Ward:
“Mother Earth almost had her.”
Brick Brody:
“Almost don’t count, Julian. Ask my knees.”
Minute 12
Lilith boots Mother Earth again, but Mother Earth answers with an Air Raid Crash over the knee, snapping Lilith’s spine across her leg.
Julian Ward:
“Punishment escalating.”
Brick Brody:
“That’ll make you walk funny tomorrow.”
Minute 13
Lilith blasts Mother Earth with a DREAD KICK, but Mother Earth absorbs it and immediately responds with a Double Chickenwing Facebuster.
Julian Ward:
“Neither woman staying down.”
Brick Brody:
“This is stubbornness disguised as courage.”
Minute 14
Lilith hoists Mother Earth into another Vertical Suplex, but Mother Earth springs to the ropes and crashes down with Gaia’s Grace (450 Splash).
Julian Ward:
“Aerial risk pays off.”
Brick Brody:
“I hate flippy stuff—but that one hurt.”
Minute 15
Lilith fires another Atomic Drop to Hell, Mother Earth counters by locking in a Surfboard again, wrenching the arms.
Julian Ward:
“Submission pressure returning.”
Brick Brody:
“Stretch her till the crown falls off.”
Minute 16
Another Vertical Suplex from Lilith, another Surfboard from Mother Earth—the struggle becomes pure endurance.
Julian Ward:
“This has become attrition.”
Brick Brody:
“My kinda match.”
Minute 17
Heyman suddenly smashes Mother Earth with a mobile phone shot behind the referee’s back. Lilith pounces with a pin.
One…
Two…
Kickout.
Julian Ward:
“Blatant interference!”
Brick Brody:
“Hey—if you ain’t cheatin’, you ain’t tryin’.”
Minute 18
Mother Earth rallies, lifting Lilith and driving her down with a Delayed Vertical Suplex, holding her aloft before impact.
Julian Ward:
“Incredible strength.”
Brick Brody:
“She’s still got gas in the tank.”
Minute 19
Lilith answers with another ABYSSAL SLAM, but Mother Earth pops up and crushes her with—yet again—an Alley-Oop Facebuster.
Julian Ward:
“Back-and-forth punishment.”
Brick Brody:
“This is just pain trading.”
Minute 20
Lilith lands another ABYSSAL SLAM, Mother Earth immediately transitions into a Surfboard, dragging the match back to the mat.
Julian Ward:
“Mother Earth refusing to let Lilith build momentum.”
Brick Brody:
“She’s annoying—and I mean that as a compliment.”
Minute 21
Lilith muscles free and plants Mother Earth with a Vertical Suplex, but Mother Earth again snaps into a Surfboard, relentless.
Julian Ward:
“She won’t let go.”
Brick Brody:
“Somebody’s arm’s gonna tear.”
Minute 22
Lilith suddenly slips behind Mother Earth and locks in the DEMON’S EMBRACE (Code of Silence), body wrapped tight, center of the ring. Mother Earth struggles—then collapses.
One…
Two…
Three.
The bell rings.
Julian Ward:
“Lilith withstands endurance, resistance, and punishment—and puts Mother Earth away.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s how champions finish fights. Drag ‘em down and don’t let ‘em breathe.”
Lilith releases the hold slowly. Heyman grins, raising the championship belt.
Julian Ward:
“This was non-title—but the message was clear.”
LILITH DEFEATS MOTHER EARTH VIA PINFALL AT THE 22-MINUTE MARK — DEMON’S EMBRACE (CODE OF SILENCE).
Lilith stands tall—crowned, defiant, and unchanged by mercy.
The feed cuts hard—no music, no polish.
A basement studio comes into focus. Cinder block walls. Exposed pipes. A single desk under harsh fluorescent lights that hum louder than they should. The vibe is utilitarian, almost hostile—by design.
Seated at the desk is Dave "The Brute" Kent. Sleeves rolled up. Papers scattered. No smile.
Across from him sit Mordred and Morgana Le Fay. Mordred leans back, relaxed, hands folded. Morgana stands just behind him—silent, watchful, dangerous.
Kent looks straight into the camera.
Dave “The Brute” Kent:
“Alright. No entrances. No mood lighting. This is The Bunker. And if you’re lookin’ for catchphrases and buzzwords, you’re watchin’ the wrong damn show.”
He turns to Mordred.
Dave Kent:
“Mordred. Tonight you face Robin Hood in the Mythic Crown Tournament semifinal.”
Kent taps the desk.
“Now—I’ll say this up front, because I don’t hide my cards. I respect Robin Hood. The guy works snug. He understands timing. He understands selling. He’s not out there doin’ gymnastics for applause like half the roster these days.”
Mordred smirks faintly.
Dave Kent:
“But you don’t seem impressed.”
Mordred chuckles—soft, dismissive.
Mordred:
“Respect is a luxury for men who need permission.”
He tilts his head.
“Robin Hood paints his face like a warning sign and calls it identity. He held the Northern Lights Championship for one day.”
A pause.
“One.”
Morgana’s lips curl into the hint of a smile.
Mordred:
“That’s not a reign. That’s a clerical error.”
Kent raises an eyebrow, half-amused, half-annoyed.
Dave Kent:
“Now see, this is where I push back—because history matters. One day or one decade, a title changes how a crowd perceives you. And Robin Hood—whether you like it or not—has something the people buy into.”
Mordred leans forward slightly.
Mordred:
“The people once bought into kings chosen by blood.”
He shrugs.
“They were wrong too.”
Kent exhales through his nose.
Dave Kent:
“Fair. And that leads me to the Broken Crown.”
He gestures between Mordred and Morgana.
Dave Kent:
“This isn’t just a faction. It’s not a mid-card cosplay club. You don’t work like one, and you sure as hell don’t talk like one. So let’s cut through the fog—what are the actual goals of the Broken Crown?”
Morgana steps closer, her voice low and precise.
Morgana Le Fay:
“The same goal every lie fears.”
She looks directly into the lens.
“Exposure.”
Mordred continues without missing a beat.
Mordred:
“Camelot survives because people believe it must. The Broken Crown exists to prove it doesn’t.”
He folds his hands.
“We are not here to win matches. Matches are evidence.”
Kent nods slowly.
Dave Kent:
“See, that I understand. That’s angle discipline. That’s long-term booking. That’s not ‘let’s pop a rating and forget it next week.’”
He leans in.
Dave Kent:
“Which brings us to King Arthur.”
Kent pauses—choosing words carefully.
Dave Kent:
“I’ve watched a lot of ‘chosen ones’ in this business. Guys handed crowns because the office wanted them to work. Some do. Some don’t. Arthur—he works. He’s got presence. He’s got gravitas. And the crowd believes.”
Mordred doesn’t react at first.
Then—
Mordred:
“Belief is the most fragile structure ever built.”
He looks away, just slightly.
Mordred:
“Arthur doesn’t rule because he’s strong. He rules because no one has told him ‘no’ loudly enough.”
Morgana places a hand on Mordred’s shoulder—possessive, reinforcing.
Morgana Le Fay:
“Kings fall the moment they stop questioning why they stand.”
Kent taps his pen against the desk, energized now.
Dave Kent:
“Alright. That’s the thesis. I get it. And from a pure wrestling psychology standpoint?”
He points at Mordred.
Dave Kent:
“You’re dangerous because you don’t rush. You don’t waste motion. You don’t pander. That’s old-school. That’s territory villainy. That’s ‘burn the town down and move on’ heat.”
He leans back.
Dave Kent:
“But tonight? You’ve got a guy who doesn’t quit. A guy who’ll bleed, crawl, and keep coming.”
Mordred smiles—this time fully.
Mordred:
“Then tonight…”
He looks directly into the camera.
“…the story ends the way it always should.”
A beat.
Mordred:
“With the lie exposed.”
Kent nods once.
Dave Kent:
“Fair enough.”
He turns back to the camera.
Dave Kent:
“This isn’t about face paint. It’s not about fairy tales. It’s about whether belief can survive contact with inevitability.”
He glances back at Mordred.
Dave Kent:
“And one way or another—somebody’s myth dies tonight.”
The lights hum. Mordred stands. Morgana follows. They leave the frame without another word.
Kent watches them go, then mutters—half to himself:
Dave Kent:
“…that’s how you build a damn villain.”
The feed cuts.
End Segment.
Entrances & Introductions
Louie Linville remains centered in the ring, voice steady, ritualistic.
Louie Linville:
“The following contest is an Eternal Flame Qualifying Match.
There is no time limit.
There must be a winner.”
The lights deepen to crimson. Raigen the Blood Oni emerges slowly, shoulders hunched, eyes fixed forward. Lord Kurogami follows, masked, silent—his presence unsettling rather than loud.
Julian Ward:
“Raigen the Blood Oni does not rush violence. He lets it settle.”
Brick Brody:
“Guy like that ain’t lookin’ for a fight. He’s lookin’ for ownership.”
The lighting shifts to gold and white. Lion steps through the curtain, chest bare, posture proud. He beats his fist once against his heart before advancing.
Julian Ward:
“Lion represents strength without compromise.”
Brick Brody:
“Yeah—but strength still gets tested.”
Linville raises the mic again.
Louie Linville:
“Introducing first… accompanied by Lord Kurogami… RAIGEN THE BLOOD ONI.”
“And his opponent… of OZ… LION.”
The bell rings.
Minute 1
Raigen the Blood Oni immediately pulls Lion into a DEMON SLEEPER (Maniac Sleeper) applied from behind, forearm cinched under the jaw.
Julian Ward:
“Raigen targeting breath and will.”
Brick Brody:
“Choke him till he remembers fear.”
Lion stays on his feet, absorbing the pressure.
Minute 2
Raigen drags Lion down and traps the leg, applying a grounded leglock to Lion’s right knee.
Julian Ward:
“Systematic. He’s dismantling the base.”
Brick Brody:
“Take the legs, the roar disappears.”
Lion grits through it, refusing to submit.
Minute 3
Raigen releases and snaps a front kick into Lion’s chest, driving him backward.
Julian Ward:
“Striking to reinforce control.”
Brick Brody:
“Every shot counts.”
Minute 4
Raigen reapplies the DEMON SLEEPER, but Lion surges forward, breaking free and leaping to the top rope—crashing down with a Lion’s Leap (top-rope splash) onto Raigen’s torso.
Julian Ward:
“Explosive resistance.”
Brick Brody:
“Big man flies. That’ll do damage.”
Minute 5
Raigen again cinches the DEMON SLEEPER, squeezing tight. Lion answers with a Brainbuster, spiking Raigen onto the mat. Raigen crawls back, re-strapping the sleeper.
Julian Ward:
“Submission versus impact.”
Brick Brody:
“And Lion refuses to quit.”
Lion powers free once more.
Minute 6
Lion claws at Raigen’s face with a Courageous Claw, forcing separation.
Julian Ward:
“Lion fighting back with ferocity.”
Brick Brody:
“Dig deep.”
Minute 7
Lion hammers Raigen with knife-edge chops, each echoing through the arena.
Julian Ward:
“Momentum turning.”
Brick Brody:
“Hit him again.”
Minute 8
Lion throws Raigen over the ropes. As the referee turns, Lord Kurogami fixes him with a chilling Oni’s Gaze, slowing the count. Raigen scrambles back in at nine.
Julian Ward:
“Interference buys survival.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s how corners work.”
Minute 9
Lion locks in a Full Nelson from behind, wrenching Raigen’s shoulders back.
Julian Ward:
“Lion testing the spine.”
Brick Brody:
“Make him bend.”
Raigen refuses to submit.
Minute 10
Kurogami again distracts the referee. Lion drives Raigen down with a bodyslam, asserting control.
Julian Ward:
“Strength asserting itself.”
Brick Brody:
“Keep him grounded.”
Minute 11
Another distraction—Whispered Curse from Kurogami. Lion throws Raigen out again, but Raigen slides back in quickly.
Julian Ward:
“The margins are razor-thin now.”
Brick Brody:
“Somebody’s about to break.”
Minute 12
Raigen throws Lion out of the ring. Lion answers from the floor, swiping with another Courageous Claw, then barely beats the count back in.
Julian Ward:
“Both men living on borrowed time.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s the fun part.”
Minute 13
Raigen traps Lion again, applying an Abdominal Stretch, wrenching the torso sideways. Raigen hooks a quick pin—
One… Two—kickout.
Julian Ward:
“Pressure without panic.”
Brick Brody:
“Don’t rush it.”
Minute 14
Lion rallies, lifting Raigen and drilling him with a Brainbuster, spiking him clean.
Julian Ward:
“That shook the Oni.”
Brick Brody:
“Now finish him.”
Minute 15
Raigen answers by dragging Lion back down into another leglock, twisting hard. He tries for another pin—
One—kickout.
Julian Ward:
“Raigen staying committed to the damage.”
Brick Brody:
“He’s playin’ the long game.”
Minute 16
Raigen plants Lion with a Piledriver, but Lion answers instantly—springing up to the ropes and crashing down with another Lion’s Leap.
Raigen covers—
One… Two—kickout.
Julian Ward:
“This is becoming a war of endurance.”
Brick Brody:
“Somebody’s lungs are failin’.”
Minute 17
Kurogami reveals the Mask of Wrath, threatening the referee. Lion fires a Spinning Heel Kick, snapping Raigen’s head aside.
Julian Ward:
“Lion refusing to be distracted.”
Brick Brody:
“Good instinct.”
Minute 18
Lion slams Raigen again with a bodyslam and covers—
One… Two—kickout.
Julian Ward:
“Raigen will not stay down.”
Brick Brody:
“Not yet.”
Minute 19
Raigen traps the arm, applying a straight armbar to Lion’s left arm, but Lion answers with more knife-edge chops, forcing separation.
Julian Ward:
“Submission denied—but damage done.”
Brick Brody:
“Arms get heavy.”
Minute 20
Raigen throws Lion out again. Lion scrambles back by four.
Julian Ward:
“Both men emptying the tank.”
Brick Brody:
“This is where it ends.”
Minute 21
Raigen re-applies the leglock, twisting. Lion answers with chops—but slower now.
Julian Ward:
“Mobility fading.”
Brick Brody:
“Good.”
Minute 22
Another leglock from Raigen, Lion claws at the face again but cannot fully escape.
Julian Ward:
“The Oni tightening the vise.”
Brick Brody:
“Break him.”
Minute 23
Raigen finally drags Lion down and locks in the DEMON SLEEPER (Maniac Sleeper), fully strapped in at center ring. Lion fights—then fades.
Lion taps.
The bell rings.
Julian Ward:
“Raigen the Blood Oni survives power, punishment, and resistance—and qualifies for the Eternal Flame.”
Brick Brody:
“Lion roared till the air ran out.”
Raigen releases the hold slowly. Lord Kurogami steps beside him, silent, satisfied.
Julian Ward:
“The Oni advances. Another place in the Eternal Flame is claimed.”
RAIGEN THE BLOOD ONI DEFEATS LION VIA SUBMISSION AT THE 23-MINUTE MARK — DEMON SLEEPER (MANIAC SLEEPER).
Raigen the Blood Oni qualifies for the Eternal Flame Battle Royal at Oathbound.
The camera drifts through the backstage corridors—stone walls, low torchlight, the sound of the arena dulled and distant.
It stops short.
Hana Nakamura is standing close to Lord Kurogami.
No audio.
Only body language.
Hana grips her microphone with both hands, knuckles pale. She nods too quickly. Her eyes flick once down the corridor—as if measuring distance, or escape. There is fear there. Controlled, but unmistakable.
Kurogami stands perfectly still. Mask forward. Shoulders squared. When he speaks, it is calm. Absolute. Not a threat—an instruction.
Hana swallows. Nods again.
The exchange lasts only seconds.
Kurogami steps past her without hesitation. Hana exhales sharply, steadying herself against the wall for just a moment before catching herself—professional instinct snapping back into place.
The camera continues its slow scan.
Further down the corridor, half-concealed behind a stone arch, Lady Ayame Ryu watches. Her posture is composed, but her eyes are sharp—tracking everything.
Footsteps approach.
Takuma Ryujin steps into frame beside her. He follows her gaze to Hana, then speaks quietly—in Japanese.
Takuma Ryujin (Japanese):
(Is Hana all right?)
Ayame does not answer immediately. Her jaw tightens. Then, just as softly—
Lady Ayame Ryu (Japanese):
(No. It’s much worse than we thought.)
She turns to face him fully.
Lady Ayame Ryu (Japanese):
(We must contact the elders.)
Takuma nods once. No surprise—only resolve.
Without another word, the two turn and walk down the corridor together, their silhouettes swallowed by shadow.
The camera lingers for a beat—then cuts away.
End Scene.
Entrances & Introductions
Louie Linville stands motionless at center ring, voice solemn.
Louie Linville:
“The following contest is scheduled for one fall.”
The lights fall to a bruised violet. Lilith emerges first, championship belt slung over her shoulder like a warning rather than a prize. Grinch Heyman trails behind her, eyes darting, phone already in hand.
Julian Ward:
“Lilith does not defend the Queen of the North Championship tonight—but she defends her position atop the hierarchy.”
Brick Brody:
“Back in my day, champions fought everybody. Didn’t hide behind contracts and fine print. I like that she showed up mean.”
The arena lighting shifts—earth tones, green and gold. Mother Earth steps through slowly, deliberate, each footfall heavy.
Julian Ward:
“Mother Earth is resilience made flesh. She doesn’t rush. She endures.”
Brick Brody:
“Yeah? Endurance is what you say right before somebody knocks your teeth loose.”
The bell rings.
Minute 1
Mother Earth scoops Lilith up and drives her face-first into the mat with an Alley-Oop Facebuster applied to Lilith, snapping her momentum immediately.
Julian Ward:
“Mother Earth striking first.”
Brick Brody:
“Good. Hit her before she starts thinkin’.”
Minute 2
Lilith answers with an ABYSSAL SLAM, sitting out hard—but Mother Earth rolls through and traps Lilith in a Surfboard stretch, pulling back on the arms.
Julian Ward:
“Control traded instantly.”
Brick Brody:
“That stretch’ll make you see childhood memories.”
Minute 3
Lilith snaps Mother Earth down with an Atomic Drop to Hell, but Mother Earth pops right back up and answers with another Alley-Oop Facebuster, planting Lilith again.
Julian Ward:
“No hesitation.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s how you fight—no breathin’ room.”
Minute 4
Heyman whispers something sharp from the floor. Mother Earth answers with a Forearm Smash to Lilith’s jaw, rocking her backward.
Julian Ward:
“Heyman already involved.”
Brick Brody:
“Good managers earn their paycheck.”
Minute 5
Mother Earth hooks Lilith for a Double Chickenwing Facebuster, but Lilith wriggles free and fires a DREAD KICK—only for Mother Earth to block and hammer her with another Forearm Smash.
Julian Ward:
“Neither woman giving ground.”
Brick Brody:
“This ain’t ballet. This is a bar fight in slow motion.”
Minute 6
Lilith catches Mother Earth mid-movement and whips her over with a Dark Whirlwind (tilt-a-whirl headscissors), sending her skidding across the mat.
Julian Ward:
“Lilith changing the tempo.”
Brick Brody:
“Spin her till she forgets which way’s up.”
Minute 7
Heyman taunts from ringside. Mother Earth answers with another Forearm Smash, but Lilith absorbs it, eyes narrowing.
Julian Ward:
“The champion refusing to fold.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s pride. And pride hurts later.”
Minute 8
Lilith lifts Mother Earth for a Vertical Suplex, but Mother Earth blocks, grounding her weight and neutralizing the lift.
Julian Ward:
“Mother Earth shutting down the power.”
Brick Brody:
“Dead weight’s hard to move. I’ve been there.”
Minute 9
Lilith charges and crushes Mother Earth with a Running Big Boot, then hooks the leg.
One…
Two…
Kickout.
Julian Ward:
“Near fall.”
Brick Brody:
“Should’ve stomped her first.”
Minute 10
Lilith spins Mother Earth again with a Dark Whirlwind, but Mother Earth answers immediately, driving Lilith down with another Alley-Oop Facebuster.
Julian Ward:
“Momentum refuses to settle.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s when matches get ugly.”
Minute 11
Another Dark Whirlwind by Lilith—this time Mother Earth counters with a Powerslam, flattening her and going for the cover.
One…
Two…
Kickout.
Julian Ward:
“Mother Earth almost had her.”
Brick Brody:
“Almost don’t count, Julian. Ask my knees.”
Minute 12
Lilith boots Mother Earth again, but Mother Earth answers with an Air Raid Crash over the knee, snapping Lilith’s spine across her leg.
Julian Ward:
“Punishment escalating.”
Brick Brody:
“That’ll make you walk funny tomorrow.”
Minute 13
Lilith blasts Mother Earth with a DREAD KICK, but Mother Earth absorbs it and immediately responds with a Double Chickenwing Facebuster.
Julian Ward:
“Neither woman staying down.”
Brick Brody:
“This is stubbornness disguised as courage.”
Minute 14
Lilith hoists Mother Earth into another Vertical Suplex, but Mother Earth springs to the ropes and crashes down with Gaia’s Grace (450 Splash).
Julian Ward:
“Aerial risk pays off.”
Brick Brody:
“I hate flippy stuff—but that one hurt.”
Minute 15
Lilith fires another Atomic Drop to Hell, Mother Earth counters by locking in a Surfboard again, wrenching the arms.
Julian Ward:
“Submission pressure returning.”
Brick Brody:
“Stretch her till the crown falls off.”
Minute 16
Another Vertical Suplex from Lilith, another Surfboard from Mother Earth—the struggle becomes pure endurance.
Julian Ward:
“This has become attrition.”
Brick Brody:
“My kinda match.”
Minute 17
Heyman suddenly smashes Mother Earth with a mobile phone shot behind the referee’s back. Lilith pounces with a pin.
One…
Two…
Kickout.
Julian Ward:
“Blatant interference!”
Brick Brody:
“Hey—if you ain’t cheatin’, you ain’t tryin’.”
Minute 18
Mother Earth rallies, lifting Lilith and driving her down with a Delayed Vertical Suplex, holding her aloft before impact.
Julian Ward:
“Incredible strength.”
Brick Brody:
“She’s still got gas in the tank.”
Minute 19
Lilith answers with another ABYSSAL SLAM, but Mother Earth pops up and crushes her with—yet again—an Alley-Oop Facebuster.
Julian Ward:
“Back-and-forth punishment.”
Brick Brody:
“This is just pain trading.”
Minute 20
Lilith lands another ABYSSAL SLAM, Mother Earth immediately transitions into a Surfboard, dragging the match back to the mat.
Julian Ward:
“Mother Earth refusing to let Lilith build momentum.”
Brick Brody:
“She’s annoying—and I mean that as a compliment.”
Minute 21
Lilith muscles free and plants Mother Earth with a Vertical Suplex, but Mother Earth again snaps into a Surfboard, relentless.
Julian Ward:
“She won’t let go.”
Brick Brody:
“Somebody’s arm’s gonna tear.”
Minute 22
Lilith suddenly slips behind Mother Earth and locks in the DEMON’S EMBRACE (Code of Silence), body wrapped tight, center of the ring. Mother Earth struggles—then collapses.
One…
Two…
Three.
The bell rings.
Julian Ward:
“Lilith withstands endurance, resistance, and punishment—and puts Mother Earth away.”
Brick Brody:
“That’s how champions finish fights. Drag ‘em down and don’t let ‘em breathe.”
Lilith releases the hold slowly. Heyman grins, raising the championship belt.
Julian Ward:
“This was non-title—but the message was clear.”
LILITH DEFEATS MOTHER EARTH VIA PINFALL AT THE 22-MINUTE MARK — DEMON’S EMBRACE (CODE OF SILENCE).
Lilith stands tall—crowned, defiant, and unchanged by mercy.
The feed cuts hard—no music, no polish.
A basement studio comes into focus. Cinder block walls. Exposed pipes. A single desk under harsh fluorescent lights that hum louder than they should. The vibe is utilitarian, almost hostile—by design.
Seated at the desk is Dave "The Brute" Kent. Sleeves rolled up. Papers scattered. No smile.
Across from him sit Mordred and Morgana Le Fay. Mordred leans back, relaxed, hands folded. Morgana stands just behind him—silent, watchful, dangerous.
Kent looks straight into the camera.
Dave “The Brute” Kent:
“Alright. No entrances. No mood lighting. This is The Bunker. And if you’re lookin’ for catchphrases and buzzwords, you’re watchin’ the wrong damn show.”
He turns to Mordred.
Dave Kent:
“Mordred. Tonight you face Robin Hood in the Mythic Crown Tournament semifinal.”
Kent taps the desk.
“Now—I’ll say this up front, because I don’t hide my cards. I respect Robin Hood. The guy works snug. He understands timing. He understands selling. He’s not out there doin’ gymnastics for applause like half the roster these days.”
Mordred smirks faintly.
Dave Kent:
“But you don’t seem impressed.”
Mordred chuckles—soft, dismissive.
Mordred:
“Respect is a luxury for men who need permission.”
He tilts his head.
“Robin Hood paints his face like a warning sign and calls it identity. He held the Northern Lights Championship for one day.”
A pause.
“One.”
Morgana’s lips curl into the hint of a smile.
Mordred:
“That’s not a reign. That’s a clerical error.”
Kent raises an eyebrow, half-amused, half-annoyed.
Dave Kent:
“Now see, this is where I push back—because history matters. One day or one decade, a title changes how a crowd perceives you. And Robin Hood—whether you like it or not—has something the people buy into.”
Mordred leans forward slightly.
Mordred:
“The people once bought into kings chosen by blood.”
He shrugs.
“They were wrong too.”
Kent exhales through his nose.
Dave Kent:
“Fair. And that leads me to the Broken Crown.”
He gestures between Mordred and Morgana.
Dave Kent:
“This isn’t just a faction. It’s not a mid-card cosplay club. You don’t work like one, and you sure as hell don’t talk like one. So let’s cut through the fog—what are the actual goals of the Broken Crown?”
Morgana steps closer, her voice low and precise.
Morgana Le Fay:
“The same goal every lie fears.”
She looks directly into the lens.
“Exposure.”
Mordred continues without missing a beat.
Mordred:
“Camelot survives because people believe it must. The Broken Crown exists to prove it doesn’t.”
He folds his hands.
“We are not here to win matches. Matches are evidence.”
Kent nods slowly.
Dave Kent:
“See, that I understand. That’s angle discipline. That’s long-term booking. That’s not ‘let’s pop a rating and forget it next week.’”
He leans in.
Dave Kent:
“Which brings us to King Arthur.”
Kent pauses—choosing words carefully.
Dave Kent:
“I’ve watched a lot of ‘chosen ones’ in this business. Guys handed crowns because the office wanted them to work. Some do. Some don’t. Arthur—he works. He’s got presence. He’s got gravitas. And the crowd believes.”
Mordred doesn’t react at first.
Then—
Mordred:
“Belief is the most fragile structure ever built.”
He looks away, just slightly.
Mordred:
“Arthur doesn’t rule because he’s strong. He rules because no one has told him ‘no’ loudly enough.”
Morgana places a hand on Mordred’s shoulder—possessive, reinforcing.
Morgana Le Fay:
“Kings fall the moment they stop questioning why they stand.”
Kent taps his pen against the desk, energized now.
Dave Kent:
“Alright. That’s the thesis. I get it. And from a pure wrestling psychology standpoint?”
He points at Mordred.
Dave Kent:
“You’re dangerous because you don’t rush. You don’t waste motion. You don’t pander. That’s old-school. That’s territory villainy. That’s ‘burn the town down and move on’ heat.”
He leans back.
Dave Kent:
“But tonight? You’ve got a guy who doesn’t quit. A guy who’ll bleed, crawl, and keep coming.”
Mordred smiles—this time fully.
Mordred:
“Then tonight…”
He looks directly into the camera.
“…the story ends the way it always should.”
A beat.
Mordred:
“With the lie exposed.”
Kent nods once.
Dave Kent:
“Fair enough.”
He turns back to the camera.
Dave Kent:
“This isn’t about face paint. It’s not about fairy tales. It’s about whether belief can survive contact with inevitability.”
He glances back at Mordred.
Dave Kent:
“And one way or another—somebody’s myth dies tonight.”
The lights hum. Mordred stands. Morgana follows. They leave the frame without another word.
Kent watches them go, then mutters—half to himself:
Dave Kent:
“…that’s how you build a damn villain.”
The feed cuts.
End Segment.
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