Aired - September 27, 2026
The screen is black.
A heavy book opens.
One ancient page turns.
A candle ignites blue before its flame twists into blood-red.
Ink spreads across the parchment, forming a crown.
An arrow pierces the crown.
A black card falls across the page.
Dragon fire consumes the card, and an oni mask emerges from the flames.
A low choir rises beneath the thunder of heavy drums.
Voice-over: "Crowns are tested."
A rapid flash of King Arthur seated upon the throne of Camelot, the Mythic Crown resting upon his head. His expression is cold as he looks down upon Robin Hood, who stands defiantly before him.
The image changes to Robin Hood drawing his bow, his arrow aimed directly at the crown.
Voice-over: "Heroes are hunted."
A burst of dragon fire reveals Raigen, his battle-scarred face illuminated by the flames.
The fire turns black.
Taro Okami emerges in his demon-wolf attire, standing beneath the watchful gaze of Lord Kurogami. A crimson image of the Blood Oni flashes behind them.
Voice-over: "Monsters wear gold."
Jack Lumber raises the Convergence Championship.
A violent cut reveals Frankenstein's Monster standing across from him, his enormous frame casting a shadow over the champion as Dr. Frankenstein watches from behind.
Voice-over: "And every victory leaves a scar."
Severin Crowne turns a black business card between his fingers.
Behind him stand the Sheriff of Nottingham and Sir Agravaine.
The image cuts to the Tin Man, Lion, and Scarecrow standing together, prepared to confront the men who have brought so much darkness into their lives.
The music drops.
One bell tolls.
The NPCW: DARK FABLE crest fills the screen.
Voice-over: "In DARK FABLE… the story does not end happily."
Voice-over: "It ends with a winner."
A final bell rings.
Voice-over: "This… is DARK FABLE."
The crest fractures.
From the darkness emerges the AGE OF RUIN logo.
The screen fades to black.
Then—
A thunderous explosion of red and gold pyrotechnics erupts above the entrance stage!
The cameras sweep across a packed Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum. Thousands of fans are on their feet as the Age of Ruin theme echoes throughout the arena.
Massive banners hang from the rafters. The entrance stage resembles the ruins of an ancient fortress, its broken stone pillars illuminated by burning torches.
The camera moves toward the ring.
Standing in the centre is Elias Coldmere, dressed in his customary dark suit, microphone in hand.
The Mythic Commissioner waits as the crowd's roar begins to settle.
Elias Coldmere: "Good evening."
The crowd cheers.
Elias Coldmere: "For weeks, this division has been consumed by questions of loyalty, authority, vengeance, and power."
"Tonight, those questions will be answered."
"Championships will be defended. Alliances will be tested. And promises made in anger will become obligations that cannot simply be forgotten."
He pauses, surveying the arena.
Elias Coldmere: "There are men competing tonight who believe their position places them above consequence."
"There are others who believe that suffering gives them the right to demand justice."
"And there are those who have agreed to stakes that reach far beyond the outcome of a single wrestling match."
"Tonight, all of them will have the opportunity to prove what their convictions are worth."
The crowd responds with another wave of cheers.
Elias Coldmere: "I will not promise that justice will prevail. I will not promise that the deserving will emerge victorious."
"What I will promise is that every competitor who enters this ring tonight will be held to the conditions of the match they have agreed to."
"Those conditions will be enforced. The results will stand. And the consequences will be theirs to bear."
He lowers the microphone briefly.
Elias Coldmere: "Ladies and gentlemen..."
"Welcome to NPCW..."
"Welcome to AGE OF RUIN!"
The crowd erupts as Elias Coldmere raises his microphone one final time before leaving the ring.
The camera cuts to the commentary desk.
Julian Ward: "Thank you, Commissioner. Good evening, everyone, and welcome to Age of Ruin. I'm Julian Ward, alongside Brick Brody. Tonight, six contests, four championships, and two matches with consequences that could extend well beyond anything we witness inside this arena."
Brick Brody: "That's what happens when men stop making threats and start putting something on the line, Julian. Titles, loyalty, bloodlines, pride. By the time this night is over, somebody's going to wish he'd kept his mouth shut."
Julian Ward: "We begin with the Convergence Championship. Jack Lumber puts his title on the line against Frankenstein's Monster. The champion has faced enormous opponents before, but tonight he confronts a creation whose strength and capacity for punishment present an entirely different challenge."
Brick Brody: "Jack's got the heart, but Frankenstein's Monster has enough power to tear the heart right out of him. And with Dr. Frankenstein watching, you know that thing is coming into this match with a purpose."
Julian Ward: "Severin Crowne joins forces with the Sheriff of Nottingham and Sir Agravaine for a six-man tag team contest against the Wizard's Warriors: Tin Man, Lion, and Scarecrow. Crowne's involvement has added another dimension to an already deeply personal conflict."
Brick Brody: "Crowne doesn't need to swing the hardest fist in the building. He just needs the right people standing beside him. And with the Sheriff and Agravaine, he's got two men who know how to make somebody regret stepping into a fight."
Julian Ward: "Two tag team championships will also be defended. The Ultimate Beasts put the Universal Tag Team Championship on the line against the Virtuous Blades, while the Blonde Bombshells defend the North Star Tag Team Championship against the War Council."
Brick Brody: "Four teams walking into those two matches, Julian. Only two walking out with gold. And I guarantee you, neither set of champions is planning to surrender anything willingly."
Julian Ward: "Then we come to the Dojo of Blood Oni Trials Match. Raigen faces his former ally, Taro Okami, with extraordinary stipulations attached to the outcome."
"If Raigen loses, he becomes bound to the Blood Oni for the next one hundred years, with that obligation extending to his bloodline and future descendants."
"If Taro Okami loses, he must submit himself to a cleansing at the Dragon's Veil sanctuary."
Brick Brody: "Now that's a fight with consequences. Raigen's betting his family's future, and Taro's betting the very darkness he's embraced. One of them is going to leave that ring owing a debt he can't run away from."
Julian Ward: "And finally, our main event. King Arthur defends the Mythic Crown Championship against Robin Hood."
"The champion has demanded more than victory. If Robin Hood loses tonight, he must acknowledge Arthur as his king and kneel before him."
Brick Brody: "Arthur wants to break the one man who refuses to bow. And Robin Hood wants to take the crown right off Arthur's head. That's not just a championship match, Julian. That's a fight over who gets to stand tall in Camelot."
Julian Ward: "Six matches. Four championships. And a night in which the consequences of victory and defeat may reshape the Mythic Division for years to come."
"Age of Ruin begins now."
The camera pulls away from the commentary desk and returns to the ring as the crowd rises in anticipation of the opening contest.
Referee: 'Honest' Abe
The cameras return to the ring as the Age of Ruin crowd prepares for the opening championship contest.
The Convergent Championship is displayed on the arena screens, followed by footage of Jack Lumber standing against the immense figure of Frankenstein's Monster.
At ringside, Dr. Frankenstein has already taken his place beside the entrance ramp, his expression one of quiet confidence.
Julian Ward: "We open Age of Ruin with the Convergent Championship. Jack Lumber has established himself as a champion willing to confront opponents of extraordinary size and strength, but tonight he faces a challenger who was quite literally assembled to exceed the limitations of an ordinary human being."
Brick Brody: "That's the problem with fighting Frankenstein's Monster, Julian. You can't intimidate him, you can't reason with him, and you sure as hell can't expect him to stop just because you're hurting him. Jack Lumber is going to have to beat something that doesn't understand when it's supposed to stay down."
Frankenstein's Monster emerges first.
His enormous frame fills the entrance beneath the flickering red lights. Thick surgical scars cross his exposed flesh, while the metal bolts embedded along his neck catch the light as he slowly turns his head toward the ring.
Dr. Frankenstein walks beside his creation, occasionally speaking to him in a low voice.
The Monster does not acknowledge the crowd.
He simply advances toward the ring.
Julian Ward: "There is something profoundly unsettling about the relationship between Dr. Frankenstein and his creation. The doctor sees an achievement. The rest of us see the consequences of that achievement standing before us."
Brick Brody: "I see a challenger who can break a man in half. Save the philosophy for after the bell, Julian."
Frankenstein's Monster steps over the top rope and moves toward the centre of the ring.
Dr. Frankenstein remains at ringside, observing his creation.
The arena lights shift to deep green.
A heavy chopping sound echoes through the Coliseum.
The crowd erupts as Jack Lumber emerges carrying the Convergent Championship over his shoulder.
The champion pauses at the top of the ramp and looks directly toward the ring.
He adjusts the championship on his shoulder before raising his free arm to acknowledge the crowd.
Julian Ward: "Jack Lumber has never built his reputation on avoiding a challenge. His championship reign has demanded resilience, physical strength, and the willingness to confront competitors who would overwhelm most men."
Brick Brody: "And tonight he needs every bit of it. That belt doesn't make his bones any harder, Julian."
Jack Lumber enters the ring and walks directly toward his challenger.
The champion raises the Convergent Championship between them.
Frankenstein's Monster looks down at the belt before returning his attention to Jack Lumber.
Neither man retreats.
'Honest' Abe steps between the competitors and orders them to their respective corners.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and is for the NPCW CONVERGENT CHAMPIONSHIP!"
The crowd cheers.
Louie Linville: "Introducing first, the challenger! Accompanied to the ring by Dr. Frankenstein! A creation of extraordinary strength and terrifying endurance... FRANKENSTEIN'S MONSTER!"
Frankenstein's Monster raises his enormous arms as Dr. Frankenstein watches approvingly from ringside.
Louie Linville: "And his opponent! The reigning and defending NPCW Convergent Champion... JACK LUMBER!"
Jack Lumber raises the championship above his head to an enormous reaction.
'Honest' Abe takes possession of the title, shows it to both competitors, and raises it toward the hard camera.
The championship is handed to the ringside attendant.
The referee signals for the bell.
DING! DING! DING!
Minute 1
Jack Lumber immediately moves toward the centre of the ring, refusing to surrender ground to the larger challenger.
Frankenstein's Monster advances without hesitation.
The champion strikes first, driving a kick into the Monster's midsection. The impact forces the challenger to bend forward slightly, but before Jack Lumber can follow up, the Monster brings a massive forearm crashing across his back.
Jack Lumber stumbles forward and drops to one knee.
The Monster reaches down to seize him, but the champion pulls himself free and returns to his feet.
Julian Ward: "An immediate exchange of power, and Jack Lumber has discovered that even a clean strike to the midsection may not be enough to interrupt this challenger's advance."
Brick Brody: "He'd better get used to it. Frankenstein's Monster doesn't need five different ways to hurt you. One good shot from those hands will do the job."
Minute 2
Jack Lumber steps inside the challenger's reach and attempts to lift him for an atomic drop.
The champion struggles momentarily beneath the Monster's weight before driving him down across his raised knee.
Frankenstein's Monster staggers forward, his expression twisting with pain.
Jack Lumber tries to capitalize, but the Monster swings a massive arm into the champion's chest and forces him down to the canvas.
The challenger follows with a heavy elbow drop across Jack Lumber's upper body.
The champion rolls toward the ropes, clutching his chest.
Julian Ward: "Jack Lumber managed to lift the challenger, but that effort came at a cost. Every exchange is forcing the champion to expend tremendous energy."
Brick Brody: "And every time he gets close enough to lift that monster, he puts himself right where those hands can reach him."
Minute 3
Frankenstein's Monster pulls Jack Lumber toward the centre of the ring.
He raises both arms, preparing another crushing strike across the champion's back.
This time, Jack Lumber drives forward before the blow can land cleanly.
The champion hooks the challenger, plants his feet, and unleashes THE AXE, driving the Monster down with tremendous force.
The Coliseum erupts.
Frankenstein's Monster rolls onto his side as Dr. Frankenstein moves closer to the apron.
Jack Lumber rises and watches his challenger carefully.
Julian Ward: "THE AXE! Jack Lumber has struck with the very maneuver that has carried him through so many difficult contests!"
Brick Brody: "And look at the size of the man he just put down! That's not something you do by accident. Jack Lumber's got power of his own, and the doctor just received a reminder of it."
Minute 4
Frankenstein's Monster rises with surprising speed.
Jack Lumber steps forward and drives an elbow smash into the challenger's upper body.
The Monster absorbs the impact and seizes the champion around the waist.
Before Jack Lumber can escape, the challenger lifts him high and delivers the GRAVEYARD SLAM, driving him into the canvas with a devastating body slam.
The impact shakes the ring.
Dr. Frankenstein nods approvingly from ringside.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous reversal of momentum! Frankenstein's Monster has answered the champion's power with a Graveyard Slam."
Brick Brody: "That's what I want to see! Jack Lumber hits him hard, and the Monster hits him harder. The champion just found out that putting this thing on the canvas doesn't mean it's going to stay there."
Minute 5
Jack Lumber struggles back to his feet as Frankenstein's Monster reaches for him.
The champion slips beneath the challenger's arms and moves behind him.
He locks his arms around the Monster's massive torso.
The crowd begins to rise as Jack Lumber tightens his grip.
Julian Ward: "Jack Lumber has secured the bearhug! He is attempting to compress the challenger's ribs and take away the physical strength that has made him so dangerous!"
Brick Brody: "Now this is interesting. Jack's not trying to knock the monster's head off. He's trying to squeeze the life out of him!"
Jack Lumber pulls the challenger backward and tightens the hold.
Frankenstein's Monster twists violently, attempting to break free.
'Honest' Abe moves into position.
'Honest' Abe: "Do you submit? Do you want to give it up?"
The Monster refuses.
Jack Lumber adjusts his grip and applies another crushing burst of pressure.
The challenger's enormous arms begin to move, searching for leverage.
Dr. Frankenstein shouts instructions from ringside.
Frankenstein's Monster finally forces enough separation to break the hold.
Jack Lumber releases his grip and steps backward.
Julian Ward: "The challenger survives the bearhug, but that was a sustained effort from Jack Lumber to wear down a body that has proven extraordinarily difficult to damage."
Brick Brody: "He didn't submit, Julian. That's the only thing that matters. Jack had him trapped, and the Monster found a way out."
Minute 6
Jack Lumber advances and throws a stiff uppercut toward the challenger's jaw.
Frankenstein's Monster catches the champion's arm before the strike can connect.
He twists Jack Lumber off balance and pulls him into position.
The Monster hoists the champion high above the canvas and delivers another GRAVEYARD SLAM.
Jack Lumber crashes onto his back.
He attempts to turn away from the impact but cannot prevent the full force of the slam.
Julian Ward: "A second Graveyard Slam! Jack Lumber attempted to strike his way through the challenger, but Frankenstein's Monster anticipated the attack."
Brick Brody: "That's a champion getting thrown around like a sack of lumber! The doctor doesn't need his creation to be clever. He just needs it to grab hold of Jack and keep putting him through the canvas."
Minute 7
Frankenstein's Monster reaches down to haul the champion back to his feet.
Jack Lumber plants his boots and drives his shoulder into the challenger's midsection.
He manages to secure a grip around the Monster's waist.
With a tremendous effort, Jack Lumber lifts the challenger and delivers a YUKON BODYSLAM.
The crowd erupts as the Monster crashes onto the canvas.
But before the champion can capitalize, Frankenstein's Monster begins to rise.
The challenger drives Jack Lumber backward and drops another heavy elbow across his upper body.
Both competitors remain on the canvas briefly.
Julian Ward: "Jack Lumber has answered the Monster's strength with another extraordinary display of his own, but neither man has been able to establish lasting control."
Brick Brody: "And every time Jack throws him, he's got to lift all that weight. Meanwhile, the Monster just needs to drop an elbow and let gravity do the rest."
Minute 8
Jack Lumber returns to his feet and meets the advancing challenger near the centre of the ring.
He ducks beneath a reaching arm, secures the Monster around the torso, and delivers another YUKON BODYSLAM.
The impact forces Frankenstein's Monster onto his back.
Jack Lumber steps forward to follow up, but the challenger rises to one knee and swings a heavy arm across the champion's back.
The blow forces Jack Lumber against the ropes.
The champion turns around, his breathing becoming noticeably heavier.
Julian Ward: "Another Yukon Bodyslam from the champion. Jack Lumber continues to demonstrate that he possesses the strength to move this enormous challenger, but Frankenstein's Monster refuses to surrender control of the contest."
Brick Brody: "Jack's throwing everything he's got at him, and the Monster keeps getting back up. That's a dangerous thing for a champion to see when he's already starting to breathe hard."
Minute 9
Frankenstein's Monster advances once more.
Jack Lumber lowers his centre of gravity and catches the challenger before he can secure a grip.
The champion lifts the Monster and drives him down with a third consecutive YUKON BODYSLAM.
The crowd responds with a thunderous cheer.
Jack Lumber steps backward, attempting to create enough distance for another attack.
The Monster rolls onto his side and forces himself upright.
As the champion approaches, Frankenstein's Monster suddenly drops his considerable weight across Jack Lumber's upper body with another elbow drop.
The champion grimaces and rolls away.
Julian Ward: "The resilience of both men is becoming the defining feature of this championship contest. Jack Lumber continues to find ways to bring the challenger down, yet the Monster's response remains relentless."
Brick Brody: "Three Yukon Bodyslams, Julian! Three! And that thing is still throwing elbows. At some point, Jack has to wonder what the hell it's going to take."
Minute 10
Frankenstein's Monster reaches his feet first.
Jack Lumber pulls himself upright near the ropes, but the challenger closes the distance before he can establish his footing.
The Monster raises both arms high above his head.
He brings them crashing down across the champion's upper back with THE BOLT DRIVER.
Jack Lumber attempts to brace himself against the ropes, but the impact sends him collapsing to the canvas.
The challenger stands over him as Dr. Frankenstein watches intently.
Julian Ward: "The Bolt Driver connects! Jack Lumber attempted to protect himself, but the force of that double axe handle has driven the champion down."
Brick Brody: "That's the kind of punishment that changes a match. Jack's been using every ounce of strength he has, and now the Monster's making sure his back pays for it."
Minute 11
Frankenstein's Monster reaches down to pull Jack Lumber off the canvas.
The champion drives an elbow into the challenger's midsection and slips free.
He steps around the Monster and secures another grip around his enormous torso.
With a roar of effort, Jack Lumber lifts the challenger and delivers another YUKON BODYSLAM.
The crowd rises as the Monster crashes onto his back.
At ringside, Dr. Frankenstein immediately begins shouting instructions.
He gestures toward Jack Lumber's injured back, urging his creation to target the champion's weakened body.
Frankenstein's Monster turns his head toward the doctor and begins pushing himself upright.
Julian Ward: "Jack Lumber refuses to relinquish this championship without a fight. Another Yukon Bodyslam, but Dr. Frankenstein is now directing his creation toward the damage already inflicted on the champion's back."
Brick Brody: "That's why the doctor's out there. He can see what the Monster might miss. Jack's back has taken a beating, and Frankenstein knows exactly where he wants his creation to strike next."
Minute 12
Jack Lumber moves forward as the challenger returns to his feet.
The champion drives a powerful elbow smash into Frankenstein's Monster's upper body.
The Monster staggers backward.
Jack Lumber follows with another burst of pressure, forcing the challenger toward the centre of the ring.
Frankenstein's Monster absorbs the punishment without answering immediately.
His head turns slowly toward the champion.
Jack Lumber remains in front of him, refusing to retreat.
Julian Ward: "Jack Lumber has the challenger under pressure again, but look at the Monster's reaction. The champion is striking with considerable force, and the challenger is simply absorbing the punishment."
Brick Brody: "That's what makes this thing so dangerous. Most men would be looking for a way out by now. Frankenstein's Monster just keeps coming forward. Jack has to make those shots count."
Minute 13
Jack Lumber moves toward the ropes and watches the challenger advance.
As Frankenstein's Monster steps forward, the champion explodes from his position.
He drives his shoulder directly into the Monster's midsection with a devastating SPEAR.
The impact sends the challenger crashing backward onto the canvas.
The crowd erupts.
Jack Lumber rolls away from the collision, clutching his own shoulder before forcing himself back to his knees.
Frankenstein's Monster remains down momentarily.
Then his enormous arms begin to move.
Julian Ward: "A spear from Jack Lumber! The champion has driven the challenger off his feet with tremendous force!"
Brick Brody: "Now that's what I'm talking about! Jack finally stopped trying to muscle him around and just drove straight through him! But he'd better get back on him. That monster's still moving."
Jack Lumber rises and watches as Frankenstein's Monster slowly pushes himself upright.
The champion's expression hardens.
He knows what must come next.
Minute 14
Frankenstein's Monster returns to his feet and advances toward the champion.
Jack Lumber steps forward to meet him.
The two men collide near the centre of the ring.
The Monster secures a grip and lifts the champion for another GRAVEYARD SLAM.
Jack Lumber crashes into the canvas, the force of the impact drawing a gasp from the crowd.
The challenger releases his grip.
But Jack Lumber refuses to remain down.
He forces himself back to his feet as Frankenstein's Monster turns toward him.
The champion catches the challenger and plants his boots.
With one final, tremendous effort, Jack Lumber unleashes THE AXE!
Frankenstein's Monster crashes onto the canvas!
The crowd erupts as the champion immediately moves into the cover.
Julian Ward: "THE AXE! JACK LUMBER HAS CONNECTED WITH THE AXE!"
'Honest' Abe drops to the canvas.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
DING! DING! DING!
The Coliseum erupts as Jack Lumber releases the cover and rolls onto his back.
Dr. Frankenstein stands motionless at ringside, staring at his fallen creation.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, here is your winner... AND STILL NPCW CONVERGENT CHAMPION... JACK LUMBER!"
'Honest' Abe retrieves the Convergent Championship and presents it to the exhausted champion.
Jack Lumber rises slowly, clutching the title against his chest.
He looks toward Frankenstein's Monster, who remains on the canvas, before raising the championship above his head.
Julian Ward: "Jack Lumber has retained the Convergent Championship after a punishing encounter with Frankenstein's Monster. The champion was repeatedly driven into the canvas, forced to endure extraordinary physical punishment, and ultimately found the strength to deliver The Axe when it mattered most."
Brick Brody: "And don't forget what it took to get there. Four Yukon Bodyslams, a spear, a bearhug, and two Axes. Jack Lumber had to empty the whole damn toolbox to keep that title. Frankenstein's Monster didn't go down easy, and I wouldn't want to be the next man standing across from either of them."
Julian Ward: "A hard-earned championship defence for Jack Lumber, who survives the opening trial of Age of Ruin and leaves Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum with the Convergent Championship still in his possession. The Monster's challenge has ended in defeat, but the extraordinary punishment required to stop him will not soon be forgotten."
RESULT: JACK LUMBER DEFEATS FRANKENSTEIN'S MONSTER BY PINFALL IN THE 14TH MINUTE AFTER THE AXE TO RETAIN THE NPCW CONVERGENT CHAMPIONSHIP.
The cameras cut backstage, where Hana Nakamura stands outside the private dressing room reserved for the King of Camelot.
Beside her stands King Arthur, the reigning Mythic Crown Champion, with Merlin positioned slightly behind him.
But something is conspicuously absent.
For the first time in recent memory, Arthur is without his crown.
The king stands with his arms folded across his chest, his jaw clenched tightly. The ornate royal robes remain, as does the championship belt resting over his shoulder, but his usual air of superiority has been replaced by barely restrained fury.
Merlin watches his king carefully, his staff resting against the floor.
Hana Nakamura: "Ladies and gentlemen, I'm joined by the reigning Mythic Crown Champion, King Arthur, who tonight defends his championship against Robin Hood in our Age of Ruin main event."
"Your Majesty, on Friday's Dark Fable, Robin Hood managed to steal your royal crown. Tonight, you have the opportunity to settle this rivalry inside the ring. What is your response to what happened on Friday?"
Arthur slowly turns his head toward Hana.
King Arthur: "My response?"
He lets out a short, humourless laugh.
King Arthur: "You stand before the King of Camelot, and you ask him to respond to the actions of a common thief?"
"That crown was placed upon my head as a symbol of my rightful authority. It represents the kingdom I rule, the throne I occupy, and the loyalty owed to me by every subject who walks beneath Camelot's banners."
"And Robin Hood..."
Arthur pauses, his voice growing colder.
King Arthur: "Robin Hood believes that stealing it somehow makes him my equal."
Hana Nakamura: "Robin has repeatedly argued that your authority has become increasingly dependent upon intimidation and the loyalty of those who surround you. He believes that defeating you tonight would represent something much greater than winning the Mythic Crown Championship."
King Arthur: "Robin Hood believes a great many things, Miss Nakamura."
"He believes that an outlaw can become a champion. He believes that a thief can challenge a king. He believes that the cheers of a crowd somehow grant him the authority to decide who should sit upon the throne."
Arthur steps closer to the camera.
King Arthur: "But tonight, Robin Hood will learn his place."
"He will stand before me in that ring, and I will strip away every illusion he has constructed around himself."
"When I defeat him, he will acknowledge me as his king."
"And then..."
Arthur points toward the floor.
King Arthur: "He will kneel."
Merlin: "His Majesty has shown considerable restraint in permitting this insolence to continue. Robin Hood has mistaken that restraint for weakness."
"The conditions of tonight's contest are clear. Once the king has prevailed, the outlaw will have no choice but to fulfil his obligation."
King Arthur: "And when he kneels, every man and woman in Camelot will be reminded of a simple truth."
"A crown may be stolen. A throne may be challenged."
"But a king remains a king."
A voice interrupts from off-camera.
Robin Hood: "Funny. I've been thinking about that very same thing."
Arthur turns sharply.
The camera widens to reveal Robin Hood stepping into frame.
The outlaw wears his familiar Sherwood Forest attire, his bow slung across his back.
He looks directly at Arthur, a faint smile spreading across his face.
Robin Hood: "A king remains a king, does he?"
"Because from where I'm standing, you look like a man who's misplaced something rather important."
The crowd inside the arena can be heard cheering as the backstage confrontation appears on the screens.
Arthur takes a step forward.
King Arthur: "You dare approach me after what you did on Friday?"
Robin Hood: "What I did?"
Robin looks toward Hana.
Robin Hood: "I believe His Majesty is referring to the little incident with his crown."
He turns back toward Arthur.
Robin Hood: "You know, I was going to bring it back tonight. But then I thought about how much effort you've put into reminding everyone that you're the king."
"And it occurred to me..."
"Perhaps it's time someone reminded you that a crown is something a man earns the right to wear."
Arthur's expression darkens.
King Arthur: "You stole what belongs to me."
Robin Hood: "I borrowed a symbol, Arthur."
"The same symbol you've been hiding behind while your men terrorize anyone who dares question you."
"You've sent your knights after my friends. You've placed a price on our heads. You've threatened anyone who refuses to bend the knee."
"And now you've put a condition on our match because taking my freedom isn't enough."
"You want my dignity."
King Arthur: "I want your obedience!"
The sudden outburst draws a brief silence.
Robin studies the king for a moment.
Robin Hood: "There he is."
"The great King Arthur."
"Not a man defending his kingdom. Not a champion defending his title."
"Just a frightened little tyrant who cannot stand the thought of someone refusing to bow."
Arthur moves toward Robin, but Merlin raises a hand.
At that moment, two figures appear from the corridor behind the king.
Sir Gawain and Sir Galahad, the Virtuous Blades, step forward and position themselves on either side of Arthur.
Sir Gawain: "You have spoken enough, outlaw."
Sir Galahad: "Take another step toward His Majesty, and you will answer to us."
Robin glances toward the knights.
He appears entirely unconcerned.
Robin Hood: "Ah. The king's loyal protectors."
"Tell me, Gawain. Does he ever allow you to fight your own battles, or must you spend every waking moment protecting him from the consequences of his own mouth?"
Sir Gawain advances, but Arthur extends an arm to stop him.
King Arthur: "Leave him."
"He wants an audience. Let him have one."
Arthur turns back toward Robin.
King Arthur: "You stand alone before the throne, Robin Hood. You always have."
Robin Hood: "Alone?"
Robin smiles.
Two more figures emerge from the corridor behind him.
Friar Tuck steps into view, followed by the towering Little John.
The two members of the Merry Band take their places behind their leader.
Friar Tuck: "I believe the king may have overlooked a few of us."
Little John: "Wouldn't be the first thing he's overlooked."
Robin Hood: "You see, Arthur? There's the difference between us."
"You surround yourself with men who serve you because you wear a crown."
"I stand beside men who would follow me into a fight even if I had nothing to offer them."
King Arthur: "And those men will watch you kneel tonight."
Robin Hood: "Perhaps."
Robin pauses.
Robin Hood: "Or perhaps they'll watch me take the Mythic Crown Championship from the man who has spent far too long confusing a title belt with a divine right to rule."
Arthur steps forward again.
King Arthur: "You have no right to speak of the Mythic Crown!"
Robin Hood: "Then why are you so afraid that I might win it?"
The king's face reddens.
Merlin tightens his grip on his staff.
Sir Gawain and Sir Galahad move closer to Robin, prompting Little John to step forward.
Friar Tuck remains beside his friend, watching the knights carefully.
For a moment, neither side moves.
Then Robin reaches into the small satchel hanging from his belt.
Robin Hood: "Actually, Arthur, before this gets any more unpleasant, I brought you something."
Arthur looks suspiciously at the satchel.
King Arthur: "What is this?"
Robin Hood: "A gift."
Robin withdraws a folded object.
He opens it carefully, revealing a crudely assembled paper crown.
The edges are uneven, and a few poorly drawn jewels decorate its surface.
Robin holds it up for the king to see.
Robin Hood: "Since you've been so distressed about losing your crown, I thought it only proper that I find you a replacement."
He tosses the paper crown toward Arthur.
It strikes the king's chest and falls to the floor.
Robin Hood: "There you are."
"A suitable crown for a king such as yourself."
The crowd erupts with laughter and cheers.
Arthur stares down at the paper crown.
For several seconds, he says nothing.
Then he slowly raises his eyes toward Robin.
King Arthur: "You insolent..."
Robin Hood: "Careful, Your Majesty. Wouldn't want you to lose your head over a little paper."
Arthur lunges forward.
Sir Gawain and Sir Galahad immediately move with him.
Little John steps between the knights and Robin, while Friar Tuck moves to protect his friend's other side.
Merlin raises his staff.
The two groups close the distance until Arthur and Robin are standing almost nose to nose.
King Arthur: "Tonight, I will make you regret every word you have spoken!"
Robin Hood: "Then stop talking and do something about it!"
Arthur grabs the front of Robin's tunic.
Robin immediately seizes the king's robes.
Before either man can throw a punch, a commanding voice cuts through the confrontation.
Elias Coldmere: "Enough."
The camera turns to reveal the Mythic Commissioner approaching with several NPCW security officials.
Elias steps directly between Arthur and Robin, forcing the two men apart.
Elias Coldmere: "Release him. Both of you."
Neither man immediately complies.
Elias Coldmere: "That was not a suggestion."
Arthur reluctantly releases Robin's tunic.
Robin lets go of the king's robes.
The Virtuous Blades and the Merry Band remain in position behind their respective leaders.
Elias Coldmere: "The two of you have spent weeks making your intentions perfectly clear."
"Arthur, you want Robin Hood to acknowledge your authority."
"Robin, you want to take the Mythic Crown Championship from Arthur."
"Tonight, you will both have the opportunity to pursue those objectives."
King Arthur: "Commissioner, this man has stolen my property, insulted my authority, and now stands before me making a mockery of the throne!"
Elias Coldmere: "And you will have the opportunity to address your grievances in the main event."
Arthur opens his mouth to respond.
Elias Coldmere: "In the ring, Arthur. Not here."
The commissioner turns toward Robin.
Elias Coldmere: "And that applies to you as well."
"Whatever you intend to prove tonight, I suggest you save it for the match."
Robin Hood: "You won't hear any objections from me, Commissioner."
He looks past Elias toward Arthur.
Robin Hood: "I've been waiting a long time for this."
King Arthur: "Then enjoy what little time you have left standing."
Elias Coldmere: "That's enough."
He looks toward the two groups.
Elias Coldmere: "The Virtuous Blades have a championship match to prepare for, and I expect every one of you to remember that this is a sanctioned wrestling event, not a private war in the corridors of Camelot."
"Now, separate yourselves."
Sir Gawain and Sir Galahad reluctantly guide Arthur backward.
Merlin remains beside the king, whispering something into his ear.
Across the corridor, Friar Tuck places a hand on Robin's shoulder.
Little John maintains his position until the knights have withdrawn.
Robin gives Arthur one final smile.
Robin Hood: "See you in the ring, Your Majesty."
He turns and walks away with the Merry Band.
Arthur watches him leave, his expression filled with barely contained fury.
Then his eyes fall upon the paper crown lying on the floor.
He bends down and picks it up.
For a moment, the king simply stares at it.
Merlin: "Your Majesty..."
Arthur crushes the paper crown in his fist.
King Arthur: "Tonight, he kneels."
The king throws the crumpled paper crown to the floor and storms toward his dressing room.
Merlin and the Virtuous Blades follow.
The camera lingers on the discarded paper crown as Elias Coldmere watches the king depart.
The broadcast fades back toward the arena.
Referee: 'Honest' Abe
The cameras return to Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum as the crowd prepares for the second contest of Age of Ruin.
A graphic appears on the arena screens showing the six competitors.
On one side stand Severin Crowne, Sir Agravaine, and the Sheriff of Nottingham.
On the other stand the Wizard's Warriors: Tin Man, Lion, and Scarecrow.
Julian Ward: "Our next contest brings together six men whose histories have become increasingly intertwined. Severin Crowne has spent recent weeks establishing his influence throughout the Mythic Division, and tonight he joins forces with the Sheriff of Nottingham and Sir Agravaine against three men who have every reason to oppose the growing power of this alliance."
Brick Brody: "Severin Crowne understands something that the Wizard's Warriors have been slow to learn, Julian. You don't build power by making speeches about friendship and loyalty. You build it by finding men who can hurt people and giving them a reason to stand beside you."
Julian Ward: "The Tin Man, Lion, and Scarecrow have faced considerable adversity, but they have repeatedly demonstrated their willingness to stand together. Tonight, that unity will be tested against three opponents who have shown little hesitation in exploiting every weakness they encounter."
Brick Brody: "Then they'd better make sure they don't have any weaknesses left to exploit."
The arena lights dim.
An ominous orchestral theme begins to play as a solitary black playing card appears upon the entrance screen.
The card slowly rotates.
A silver crown emerges across its surface.
Severin Crowne steps onto the entrance stage.
Dressed in his distinctive dark wrestling attire, he pauses beneath the entrance lights and surveys the arena with a composed expression.
Behind him emerge the Sheriff of Nottingham and Sir Agravaine.
The Sheriff walks with his usual arrogance, while Sir Agravaine carries himself with the rigid discipline of a knight who has long since abandoned any pretence of honour.
Severin looks toward his partners before beginning the walk to the ring.
Julian Ward: "An unusual alliance in some respects, but one that has become increasingly dangerous. The Sheriff of Nottingham retains the Eternal Flame Championship, Sir Agravaine remains a formidable member of Camelot's knightly order, and Severin Crowne has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to position himself at the centre of conflicts throughout this division."
Brick Brody: "That's because Crowne understands how to use people. Look at the men beside him. The Sheriff knows how to punish an opponent, Agravaine knows how to follow an order, and Crowne knows exactly when to let somebody else do the dirty work."
The three men enter the ring.
Severin removes a black card from his attire and examines it briefly before slipping it away.
Across the ring, the Sheriff of Nottingham and Sir Agravaine discuss their strategy.
The arena lights shift.
The opening notes of the Wizard's Warriors entrance theme echo throughout the Coliseum.
The crowd rises as Lion emerges first.
He raises his arms and roars toward the arena before turning to welcome his partners.
Scarecrow steps onto the stage, followed by Tin Man.
The three men stand together beneath the entrance lights.
Scarecrow points toward the ring, where Severin Crowne watches their arrival without expression.
Lion leads the way down the ramp, slapping the outstretched hands of fans as Scarecrow follows close behind.
Tin Man walks more slowly.
His attention remains fixed upon the three men waiting in the ring.
Julian Ward: "The Wizard's Warriors have endured their share of setbacks, but their bond has remained central to their identity. Against this particular opposition, they will need all three members working together."
Brick Brody: "They need more than friendship, Julian. They need to understand that Crowne and his partners aren't coming out here to prove they're better people. They're coming out here to win, and they won't care how much damage they leave behind."
The Wizard's Warriors enter the ring.
Lion moves toward the opposing corner, but Scarecrow places a hand on his shoulder and speaks quietly to him.
Tin Man remains a step behind his partners.
'Honest' Abe moves between the two teams and orders them toward their respective corners.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is a SIX-MAN TAG TEAM MATCH scheduled for one fall!"
The crowd cheers.
Louie Linville: "Introducing first, the team of SIR AGRAVAINE... the reigning NPCW Eternal Flame Champion, the SHERIFF OF NOTTINGHAM... and SEVERIN CROWNE!"
The three men acknowledge the announcement with restrained confidence.
Louie Linville: "And their opponents! Representing the WIZARD'S WARRIORS... THE TIN MAN... THE LION... AND THE SCARECROW!"
The crowd erupts as the Wizard's Warriors raise their arms.
'Honest' Abe completes his final instructions.
Severin Crowne steps forward for his team.
Across the ring, Lion volunteers to begin for the Wizard's Warriors.
The referee signals for the bell.
DING! DING! DING!
Minute 1
Lion advances immediately, refusing to allow Severin Crowne an opportunity to dictate the opening exchange.
The two men lock up near the centre of the ring.
Lion uses his strength to drive Severin backward, but Crowne slips beneath his opponent's arm and pulls him into a sudden MAJORITY DROP, driving Lion's neck across his shoulder.
Lion hits the canvas and rolls toward the ropes.
Severin moves quickly toward his corner.
He brings the Sheriff of Nottingham into the exchange, allowing the Sheriff to unleash a vicious spinning knife-edge chop across Lion's chest.
The impact echoes throughout the arena.
Before Lion can recover, Sir Agravaine steps in from the apron and drives a rear high knee into his upper back.
'Honest' Abe immediately orders the additional men out of the ring.
Lion fights through the assault, seizing Severin and planting him with a powerful bodyslam.
Crowne rolls away as his partners return to the apron.
Julian Ward: "An immediate coordinated attack from Crowne and his partners! They have attempted to overwhelm Lion before the Wizard's Warriors can establish any momentum."
Brick Brody: "That's how you start a six-man match, Julian. You don't wait around for everybody to shake hands. You get your partners involved, hit the biggest man first, and make sure he understands this isn't going to be a fair fight."
Minute 2
Both men circle cautiously.
Lion steps forward, but Severin Crowne avoids the initial lockup and drives an elbow directly into the side of his opponent's neck.
The POLICY ADJUSTMENT forces Lion backward.
Lion attempts to cover his neck, but Crowne follows with another sharp strike before forcing him toward the opposing corner.
Severin glances toward his partners.
He reaches back and tags Sir Agravaine into the contest.
Julian Ward: "Crowne targeting the neck with the Policy Adjustment. An intelligent choice after the Majority Drop earlier in the match, and now Sir Agravaine enters with Lion already struggling to protect that area."
Brick Brody: "Crowne isn't looking to impress anybody with how many moves he knows. He's found a weakness, and now he's handing it over to Agravaine. That's how you wear a man down."
Minute 3
Sir Agravaine steps through the ropes and immediately closes the distance.
He moves behind Lion and drives a high knee into his upper back.
Lion stumbles forward but catches himself against the ropes.
As Agravaine approaches again, Lion turns and catches the knight around the head.
He delivers a powerful neckbreaker, driving Sir Agravaine into the canvas.
The crowd cheers as Lion rises.
He looks toward his corner and reaches out.
Scarecrow extends his arm.
The tag is made.
Julian Ward: "Lion answers the attack with a neckbreaker of his own, and Scarecrow enters the contest. The Wizard's Warriors have an opportunity to change the direction of this match."
Brick Brody: "Agravaine made the mistake of letting Lion get his hands on him. Now he's got a fresh man coming in, and he'd better get himself back to his corner."
Minute 4
Scarecrow steps between the ropes and moves directly toward Sir Agravaine.
The knight attempts to intercept him with another high knee, but Scarecrow absorbs the strike and responds with a powerful HAYMAKER LARIAT.
Agravaine staggers backward.
Scarecrow advances, but the knight catches him around the head and shoulders.
Sir Agravaine hooks both arms and delivers a double underhook sitout facebuster.
Scarecrow crashes face-first into the canvas.
The knight attempts to maintain control, but Scarecrow fights back to his knees.
Agravaine decides against prolonging the exchange.
He retreats toward his corner and tags Severin Crowne back into the match.
Julian Ward: "Both men connecting with significant offense. Scarecrow's lariat briefly gave him control, but Agravaine answered with that facebuster before bringing Crowne back into the contest."
Brick Brody: "And Crowne gets to come back in against a man who's already taken a beating. That's what having partners is supposed to do for you."
Minute 5
Severin Crowne enters and immediately seizes Scarecrow by the back of the head.
He drives him toward the corner and rams his face into the turnbuckle.
Scarecrow staggers backward.
Severin reaches for him again, but Scarecrow catches him around the waist.
With a sudden burst of strength, Scarecrow lifts his opponent vertically before dropping him with a devastating brainbuster.
The crowd erupts.
Scarecrow immediately hooks the leg.
'Honest' Abe drops into position.
ONE!
Severin Crowne kicks out!
Scarecrow releases the cover and rises to his knees.
Severin rolls toward his corner, clutching the back of his head.
He reaches up and tags the Sheriff of Nottingham into the match.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous brainbuster from Scarecrow! Crowne was caught completely off guard, but the early kickout allows him to bring the Sheriff of Nottingham into the contest."
Brick Brody: "Scarecrow had him planted, but he didn't have him beaten. Crowne knew exactly where his corner was, and now the Sheriff gets to come in and settle things."
Minute 6
The Sheriff of Nottingham enters with an expression of open contempt.
Scarecrow advances cautiously.
The Sheriff steps forward and delivers a powerful lariat across his opponent's chest.
Scarecrow staggers but remains standing.
He catches the Sheriff's arm and pulls him into a tight headlock.
The Sheriff of Nottingham attempts to force his opponent toward the ropes, but Scarecrow maintains his grip.
The Sheriff finally drives a forearm into Scarecrow's ribs, creating enough separation to escape.
Julian Ward: "Scarecrow attempting to slow the Sheriff down with that headlock, but the Eternal Flame Champion has no intention of allowing himself to be controlled."
Brick Brody: "The Sheriff doesn't like being held in place, Julian. He wants to hurt somebody, and if Scarecrow keeps trying to wrestle him on the mat, he's going to get a forearm in the ribs every time."
Minute 7
The two men briefly separate.
Scarecrow steps forward, but the Sheriff of Nottingham catches him with another lariat.
This time, Scarecrow absorbs the impact and rebounds off the ropes.
The Sheriff attempts to intercept him.
Scarecrow ducks beneath his opponent's arm and catches him on the return.
He sends the Sheriff over his back with a powerful back body drop.
The crowd cheers as the Sheriff crashes into the canvas.
Scarecrow rises and immediately moves toward his corner.
He reaches out and tags Lion back into the contest.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous back body drop from Scarecrow, and the Wizard's Warriors have another opportunity to establish control."
Brick Brody: "Good tag. Scarecrow's been taking punishment, and Lion gets to come back in while the Sheriff's still trying to figure out which way is up."
Minute 8
Lion enters and charges toward the Sheriff of Nottingham.
The Sheriff rises quickly and catches him with a lariat.
Lion staggers backward but refuses to fall.
He reaches forward and clamps his hand across the Sheriff's face, applying the COURAGEOUS CLAW.
The Sheriff struggles against the pressure.
Lion tightens his grip, forcing his opponent toward the centre of the ring.
The Sheriff finally drives a forearm into Lion's midsection and breaks free.
He retreats toward his corner and tags Severin Crowne.
Julian Ward: "Lion's Courageous Claw forced the Sheriff to retreat, but he has successfully brought Severin Crowne back into the contest."
Brick Brody: "Lion needs to stop letting these men get back to their corner. He's got the power to hurt them, but Crowne and his partners keep finding a way to bring in somebody fresh."
Minute 9
Severin Crowne approaches carefully.
Lion reaches for him, but Crowne slips beneath his arm and moves behind him.
He hooks Lion into an abdominal stretch, positioning himself close enough to the ropes to seize them for additional leverage.
'Honest' Abe moves around the competitors, attempting to check the hold.
Severin releases the rope whenever the referee comes into view.
Lion struggles against the pressure.
He finally manages to break the hold and catches Crowne around the waist.
With a powerful effort, Lion lifts his opponent and drives him into the canvas with a bodyslam.
Julian Ward: "Crowne using the ropes to increase the pressure of that abdominal stretch, but Lion has escaped and answered with another display of strength."
Brick Brody: "You use the ropes until the referee catches you. That's just common sense. Crowne had the right idea, but Lion's got enough power to throw him halfway across the ring when he gets his hands free."
Minute 10
Severin Crowne rises slowly.
Lion advances and clamps his hand across his opponent's face once again.
The COURAGEOUS CLAW forces Crowne backward.
Severin attempts to pry the hand away, but Lion maintains the pressure.
The crowd urges him to continue.
Crowne finally creates enough separation to escape, retreating toward the ropes.
Lion watches him carefully before turning toward his corner.
He reaches out and tags Scarecrow.
Julian Ward: "Lion has once again forced Crowne to retreat, and Scarecrow returns to the match with the opportunity to build upon that momentum."
Brick Brody: "Crowne's spending too much time trying to get away from these big shots. He needs to stop letting Lion dictate the exchanges, or he's going to find himself flat on his back again."
Minute 11
Scarecrow enters and immediately closes the distance.
Severin Crowne catches him by the wrist and pulls him forward into a short-arm clothesline.
Scarecrow hits the canvas but immediately reaches up and hooks his opponent.
He rolls Crowne into a small package!
'Honest' Abe drops into position.
ONE!
TWO!
Severin Crowne kicks out!
The crowd groans as Scarecrow releases the hold.
Both men scramble to their feet.
Severin backs away, his expression showing the first signs of frustration.
Julian Ward: "Scarecrow nearly caught Crowne with that small package! A momentary lapse in concentration almost cost Severin Crowne the match."
Brick Brody: "That's what happens when you get careless. Crowne had him down, and instead of staying on him, he let Scarecrow roll him up. He's lucky he got his shoulder off the canvas."
Minute 12
Scarecrow attempts to maintain his momentum.
He moves toward Severin Crowne and reaches for a front cradle.
Crowne anticipates the maneuver.
He shifts his weight, breaks the grip, and forces Scarecrow backward before the pinning combination can be completed.
Scarecrow attempts to follow him, but Severin retreats toward his corner.
He reaches out and tags the Sheriff of Nottingham.
The Sheriff steps between the ropes as Scarecrow prepares to meet him.
Julian Ward: "Crowne successfully neutralizes the front cradle and brings the Sheriff back into the match. A potentially dangerous moment for his team has passed."
Brick Brody: "That's the difference between the two men. Scarecrow wanted another quick pin. Crowne recognized it, shut it down, and got himself out of there."
Minute 13
The Sheriff of Nottingham advances aggressively.
Scarecrow catches him off balance and sends him over his back with a powerful back body drop.
The Sheriff rises quickly, but Scarecrow forces him toward the Wizard's Warriors corner.
Lion reaches over the ropes and catches the Sheriff in a full nelson, briefly holding him in place.
Scarecrow releases his grip and creates an opening for Tin Man.
The metal-bodied warrior steps through the ropes and sweeps the Sheriff's legs, sending him crashing to the canvas.
'Honest' Abe orders the additional men back to the apron.
The Sheriff scrambles upright and catches Scarecrow with a Russian legsweep before the Wizard's Warriors can continue their assault.
Both men hit the canvas.
Julian Ward: "The Wizard's Warriors answer the coordinated attack we saw at the beginning of this match! Scarecrow, Lion, and Tin Man have worked together to bring the Sheriff down."
Brick Brody: "And that's exactly what they needed to do. You don't beat Crowne's team by standing around waiting for your turn. You make every tag count, and you put the boots to somebody while you've got the chance."
Minute 14
The Sheriff of Nottingham rises and catches Scarecrow as he attempts to advance.
He lifts his opponent across his shoulders.
With a sudden turn, the Sheriff delivers the EXECUTION ORDER, driving Scarecrow into the canvas.
The crowd reacts as the Sheriff rises.
He reaches down to pull Scarecrow upright, but the Wizard's Warrior counters by lifting the Sheriff onto his shoulders.
Scarecrow begins spinning with the FIELD SPINNER, disorienting his opponent before releasing him.
The Sheriff staggers across the ring.
Scarecrow attempts to regain his balance, but the Sheriff recovers first and drives him back to the canvas.
He hooks the leg.
'Honest' Abe drops into position.
ONE!
Scarecrow kicks out!
The Sheriff releases the cover and rises, visibly irritated.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous exchange! The Sheriff connects with the Execution Order, Scarecrow answers with the Field Spinner, and neither man has been able to secure a decisive advantage."
Brick Brody: "The Sheriff should've stayed on him after that Execution Order. Instead, he let Scarecrow get his hands on him again. He's giving this man too many chances."
Minute 15
The Sheriff of Nottingham advances once more.
Scarecrow catches him around the head and forces him toward the Wizard's Warriors corner.
He secures a side chinlock while Lion reaches over the ropes and delivers a spinning heel kick that catches the Sheriff across the upper body.
The Sheriff stumbles backward.
Scarecrow releases the hold and attempts to follow up.
Before he can establish control, the Sheriff catches him around the waist and delivers another Russian legsweep.
Scarecrow crashes onto his back.
The Sheriff rolls onto one knee and glances toward his corner.
Julian Ward: "Scarecrow and Lion working together again, but the Sheriff continues to find answers whenever they attempt to overwhelm him."
Brick Brody: "You can see the frustration starting to build on both sides. The Wizard's Warriors keep getting the Sheriff in trouble, but they can't finish him. And the Sheriff's starting to realize this fight is going to take more than a few lariats."
Minute 16
The Sheriff of Nottingham reaches down and attempts to pull Scarecrow into another Russian legsweep.
Scarecrow anticipates the maneuver.
He plants his feet, breaks the Sheriff's grip, and forces him backward.
As the Sheriff attempts to recover, Scarecrow charges forward and connects with a devastating HAYMAKER LARIAT.
The Sheriff crashes onto his back.
Scarecrow drops to one knee, breathing heavily.
He looks toward his corner.
Tin Man extends his hand.
Scarecrow crawls forward and makes the tag.
Julian Ward: "Scarecrow counters the Russian legsweep and connects with the Haymaker Lariat! And now Tin Man enters the contest!"
Brick Brody: "Fresh man against a Sheriff who's been taking punishment for several minutes. This is the kind of opportunity the Wizard's Warriors have been waiting for."
Minute 17
Tin Man steps through the ropes and advances toward the Sheriff of Nottingham.
The Sheriff attempts to rise, but Tin Man catches him before he can establish his footing.
He drives a series of knee strikes into the Sheriff's midsection and upper body.
The Sheriff attempts to cover up, but Tin Man maintains the attack.
Another knee forces the Sheriff backward toward the ropes.
Tin Man steps away briefly, allowing his opponent to struggle upright.
Julian Ward: "Tin Man immediately targeting the Sheriff's midsection with those knee strikes. The Eternal Flame Champion has already endured considerable punishment, and this is an opportunity for the Wizard's Warriors to capitalize."
Brick Brody: "He's got the Sheriff hurt. Now he needs to keep him there. Don't let him get back to Crowne or Agravaine."
Minute 18
The Sheriff of Nottingham attempts to create distance.
Tin Man catches him by the wrist and pulls him toward the centre of the ring.
He attempts to secure an armbar.
The Sheriff immediately recognizes the danger.
He shifts his weight, twists his arm free, and forces Tin Man backward before the hold can be fully applied.
Tin Man attempts to regain control, but the Sheriff moves toward the ropes.
The referee separates the competitors.
Julian Ward: "Tin Man looking to isolate the Sheriff's arm, but the champion successfully breaks the hold before it can become a serious problem."
Brick Brody: "That was a mistake. The Sheriff's already hurt, and Tin Man gave him time to breathe by trying to get fancy with an armbar."
Minute 19
Tin Man advances again.
The Sheriff of Nottingham attempts to intercept him, but the Wizard's Warrior lowers his head and drives it directly into the Sheriff's midsection.
The impact forces the Sheriff backward.
Tin Man follows with another headbutt to the body, keeping his opponent from establishing any offense.
The Sheriff finally creates enough distance to retreat toward the centre of the ring.
Tin Man looks toward his corner.
Scarecrow extends his arm.
The tag is made.
Julian Ward: "Tin Man has kept the Sheriff under pressure, and Scarecrow returns to the match. The Wizard's Warriors have controlled much of this recent exchange."
Brick Brody: "They've got the Sheriff where they want him, Julian. Now somebody needs to put him down and keep him down."
Minute 20
Scarecrow enters and advances toward the Sheriff of Nottingham.
The Sheriff catches him around the head and shoulders before delivering another Russian legsweep.
Scarecrow crashes into the canvas.
The Sheriff immediately rolls across his opponent and hooks the leg.
'Honest' Abe drops into position.
ONE!
Scarecrow kicks out!
The Sheriff sits upright, visibly frustrated.
He looks toward Severin Crowne, who watches from the apron without offering any immediate assistance.
Julian Ward: "Another Russian legsweep and another unsuccessful pin attempt. The Sheriff of Nottingham has repeatedly found opportunities to bring Scarecrow down, but the Wizard's Warrior continues to survive."
Brick Brody: "The Sheriff keeps getting one-counts. That should tell him something. He's hurting Scarecrow, but he hasn't done nearly enough to finish the job."
Minute 21
The Sheriff of Nottingham drags Scarecrow toward the ropes.
He steps onto the middle rope, preparing to launch himself back into the ring.
The Sheriff springs forward with a dropkick.
But Scarecrow moves at the last moment!
The Sheriff crashes into the canvas.
Scarecrow immediately reaches down, catches his opponent, and delivers the STRAWMAN SLAM.
The crowd erupts as the Sheriff is driven into the mat.
Scarecrow rises and looks toward the opposing corner.
Severin Crowne watches intently.
Julian Ward: "The Strawman Slam! Scarecrow has countered the Sheriff's springboard attack and delivered a significant blow!"
Brick Brody: "The Sheriff took a gamble and paid for it. He'd better get himself moving before Scarecrow decides to finish what he just started."
Minute 22
The Sheriff of Nottingham struggles back to his feet.
Scarecrow advances, but the Sheriff catches him with a vicious spinning knife-edge chop.
The impact sends Scarecrow stumbling backward.
The Sheriff steps forward to deliver another strike.
Scarecrow ducks beneath the attack and catches his opponent around the waist.
He lifts the Sheriff and sends him crashing into the canvas with a powerful back body drop.
The crowd cheers as Scarecrow rises.
Across the ring, Severin Crowne moves closer to the corner ropes.
Julian Ward: "Scarecrow has answered another powerful strike from the Sheriff. The Wizard's Warriors are beginning to find openings against an opponent who has already endured a great deal of punishment."
Brick Brody: "And the Sheriff's getting sloppy. He's throwing those chops because he's frustrated, and Scarecrow's making him pay for it."
Minute 23
The Sheriff of Nottingham reaches his feet near the centre of the ring.
Scarecrow moves toward him.
The Sheriff attempts to catch his opponent around the waist, but Scarecrow breaks free.
He rebounds off the ropes.
Scarecrow charges forward and connects with another HAYMAKER LARIAT!
The Sheriff crashes onto his back.
The crowd erupts as Scarecrow rises.
He looks toward his corner, where Lion and Tin Man watch from the apron.
Julian Ward: "Another Haymaker Lariat! Scarecrow has the Sheriff in serious difficulty!"
Brick Brody: "The Sheriff's been taking those shots for too long. He's got to get to his corner, or this thing is going to end with him staring up at the lights."
Minute 24
The Sheriff of Nottingham struggles to his feet.
Scarecrow moves toward him, looking to deliver another decisive strike.
The Sheriff suddenly steps behind his opponent.
He wraps his arm around Scarecrow's neck and locks in a SLEEPER!
Scarecrow immediately reaches for the ropes.
The Sheriff drags him backward toward the centre of the ring.
Julian Ward: "The Sleeper! The Sheriff of Nottingham has caught Scarecrow, and he has him trapped in the centre of the ring!"
Brick Brody: "That's exactly what the Sheriff needed! Scarecrow's been taking punishment all match, and now he's got a man squeezing the air out of him!"
Scarecrow struggles against the hold.
He plants his feet and attempts to force his way toward the Wizard's Warriors corner.
Lion leans over the ropes, shouting encouragement.
Tin Man stands beside him.
Scarecrow reaches forward.
His fingertips move closer to the outstretched hand of Tin Man.
The crowd begins to rise.
Julian Ward: "Scarecrow is reaching for the tag! Tin Man is right there!"
Scarecrow stretches his arm as far as he can.
But Tin Man suddenly withdraws his hand.
He looks directly at Scarecrow.
Then he steps down from the apron.
The crowd gasps.
Julian Ward: "Wait a minute! Tin Man has stepped away! Tin Man is refusing the tag!"
Scarecrow stares at his partner in disbelief.
The momentary distraction allows the Sheriff of Nottingham to drag him farther away from the corner.
Lion turns toward Tin Man.
Lion: "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"
Tin Man does not answer.
Instead, he turns away from his partner.
Across the ring, Severin Crowne suddenly drops from the apron.
He charges around ringside and attacks Lion from behind!
Lion stumbles against the ring post.
Julian Ward: "Severin Crowne has attacked Lion! Lion was trying to get to Scarecrow, and Crowne has cut him off!"
Lion turns and attempts to fight back.
He catches Severin around the shoulders and forces him backward.
But before Lion can follow up, Tin Man moves toward them.
For a brief moment, it appears that he is coming to his partner's aid.
Then—
Tin Man strikes Lion!
The crowd erupts in disbelief.
Lion staggers backward.
Tin Man advances and attacks him again, joining Severin Crowne in the assault.
Julian Ward: "TIN MAN IS ATTACKING LION! TIN MAN HAS TURNED ON HIS OWN PARTNER!"
Brick Brody: "Would you look at that! Crowne's got himself another man! Lion thought he was getting help, and instead he's getting beaten down by his own partner!"
Lion attempts to fight off both attackers, but Severin and Tin Man overwhelm him against the ringside barricade.
Inside the ring, Scarecrow watches helplessly as the Sheriff of Nottingham tightens the Sleeper.
Scarecrow: "TIN MAN! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"
Tin Man briefly turns toward the ring.
He looks directly at Scarecrow.
Then he turns back toward Lion and continues the attack alongside Severin Crowne.
Scarecrow attempts one final escape.
He reaches toward the ropes, but the Sheriff pulls him backward and cinches the hold even tighter.
'Honest' Abe moves into position.
'Honest' Abe: "Scarecrow! Do you submit?"
Scarecrow struggles.
His hand reaches toward the ropes.
But there is no one left in his corner.
Scarecrow taps out!
DING! DING! DING!
The crowd erupts into furious boos.
The Sheriff of Nottingham releases the Sleeper and rises to his feet.
At ringside, Severin Crowne and Tin Man stop their assault on Lion.
Lion remains slumped against the barricade, holding his head.
Scarecrow lies on the canvas, struggling to comprehend what has just happened.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, here are your winners, by submission... THE SHERIFF OF NOTTINGHAM, SIR AGRAVAINE, AND SEVERIN CROWNE!"
Sir Agravaine enters the ring and raises the Sheriff's arm.
But the camera does not remain on the victorious team.
It returns to ringside.
Severin Crowne stands beside Tin Man.
The two men look toward the ring.
Scarecrow has managed to pull himself into a seated position.
He stares at Tin Man, his expression filled with disbelief.
Severin reaches into his attire.
He withdraws one of his black business cards.
He turns it slowly between his fingers.
Then he looks toward Tin Man.
A faint smile crosses Crowne's face.
Tin Man does not acknowledge the fallen Lion.
He continues looking toward Scarecrow.
Inside the ring, the Sheriff of Nottingham raises the Eternal Flame Championship.
Sir Agravaine joins him as Severin Crowne and Tin Man begin walking toward the entrance ramp together.
The camera follows them briefly before returning to the ring.
Scarecrow has crawled toward the ropes.
He watches his former partner disappear up the ramp.
Julian Ward: "The Sheriff of Nottingham has secured the submission victory, but the result has been overshadowed by an extraordinary betrayal. Tin Man refused to tag Scarecrow, abandoned his position on the apron, and then joined Severin Crowne in attacking Lion. The Wizard's Warriors have suffered far more than a defeat here tonight."
Brick Brody: "Scarecrow was trapped in that Sleeper, Julian, and the man he trusted to save him walked away. Then Lion found out exactly where Tin Man's loyalty was when he got jumped by his own partner. Crowne didn't just win a match tonight. He took the Wizard's Warriors apart right in front of everybody."
Julian Ward: "The circumstances surrounding Tin Man's actions remain unclear, but what we witnessed was unmistakable. He deliberately abandoned Scarecrow and assisted Severin Crowne in preventing Lion from making the save. The Sheriff of Nottingham, Sir Agravaine, and Severin Crowne leave Age of Ruin victorious, while the Wizard's Warriors are left confronting a betrayal that may have permanently changed their future."
RESULT: SEVERIN CROWNE, SIR AGRAVAINE & SHERIFF OF NOTTINGHAM DEFEAT WIZARD'S WARRIORS (TIN MAN, LION & SCARECROW) BY SUBMISSION IN THE 24TH MINUTE AFTER SHERIFF OF NOTTINGHAM APPLIES THE SLEEPER TO SCARECROW.
Tin Man refuses the tag and joins Severin Crowne in attacking Lion, preventing him from making the save.
Referee: 'Honest' Abe
The cameras return to Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum as the Universal Tag Team Championship graphic fills the arena screens.
The reigning champions, Karnyx and Varak, have dominated much of the tag team division through their extraordinary strength and the ruthless guidance of Marcus the Beastmaster.
Tonight, they face two of Camelot's finest knights.
Sir Galahad and Sir Gawain, the Virtuous Blades, seek to bring the Universal Tag Team Championship into King Arthur's kingdom.
Julian Ward: "Our next contest features the Universal Tag Team Championship. The Ultimate Beasts have established themselves as one of the most physically imposing teams in NPCW, but tonight they face two competitors who possess considerable wrestling experience, technical ability, and a willingness to stand against even the most formidable opponents."
Brick Brody: "Galahad and Gawain can talk about honour and the glory of Camelot all they want, Julian. Karnyx and Varak aren't interested in any of that. They're interested in breaking people, and Marcus the Beastmaster has turned that into a very successful way of keeping those championships."
Julian Ward: "And with Merlin accompanying the Virtuous Blades tonight, there is considerable interest in whether his presence can counter the influence Marcus has repeatedly exercised from ringside."
Brick Brody: "Merlin had better bring more than advice. Those knights are about to find out what happens when you put a pair of swordsmen in front of two charging beasts."
The arena lights dim.
A deep, rhythmic war drum echoes throughout the Coliseum.
The royal insignia of Camelot appears across the entrance screens.
Sir Galahad emerges first, dressed in ceremonial entrance armour, followed by Sir Gawain.
The two knights pause beneath the entrance lights.
Behind them appears Merlin, carrying his staff.
The crowd responds with a mixture of cheers and boos as the representatives of Camelot begin their approach.
Sir Galahad walks with quiet determination, his attention fixed upon the ring.
Sir Gawain looks toward the championship graphic above the entrance stage before exchanging a few words with his partner.
Merlin follows closely, watching both men with an expression of measured confidence.
Julian Ward: "An important night for the Virtuous Blades. With King Arthur preparing to defend the Mythic Crown later this evening, Galahad and Gawain have an opportunity to bring another major championship into Camelot's possession."
Brick Brody: "And you know Arthur would love that. Two more championship belts in Camelot would give him something else to boast about. But these knights have to earn them first, and I don't see Karnyx and Varak giving anything away."
The Virtuous Blades enter the ring.
Sir Galahad removes his ceremonial armour, while Sir Gawain approaches the ropes and looks toward the entrance.
Merlin takes his position at ringside.
The arena lights turn dark red.
A thunderous roar echoes throughout the Coliseum.
Heavy drums begin to pound as the entrance screens display the unmistakable image of the Ultimate Beasts.
Marcus the Beastmaster emerges first.
A heavy chain hangs from his hand as he surveys the arena with an expression of cold satisfaction.
Behind him appear Karnyx and Varak.
The Universal Tag Team Champions step onto the entrance stage, their enormous frames illuminated by the red lights.
Each carries a championship belt over his shoulder.
Marcus raises the chain and gestures toward the ring.
The champions begin their approach.
Julian Ward: "There are few teams capable of matching the sheer physical presence of the Ultimate Beasts. Karnyx and Varak have demonstrated an extraordinary capacity to absorb punishment while delivering devastating offense of their own."
Brick Brody: "And they don't waste time trying to impress the crowd. Marcus points them toward somebody, and they go to work. That's a dangerous combination when you're carrying championship gold."
The Ultimate Beasts climb onto the apron.
Karnyx steps over the ropes first, followed by Varak.
The champions raise their titles toward the Virtuous Blades.
Sir Galahad and Sir Gawain refuse to retreat.
Marcus the Beastmaster moves toward his team's corner, maintaining a firm grip on the chain.
'Honest' Abe steps between the teams and orders them to their respective corners.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and is for the NPCW UNIVERSAL TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP!"
The crowd erupts.
Louie Linville: "Introducing first, the challengers! Accompanied to the ring by Merlin! Representing the Kingdom of Camelot... SIR GALAHAD and SIR GAWAIN... THE VIRTUOUS BLADES!"
The knights step forward and acknowledge the announcement.
Louie Linville: "And their opponents! Accompanied to the ring by Marcus the Beastmaster! They are the reigning and defending NPCW UNIVERSAL TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS... KARNYX and VARAK... THE ULTIMATE BEASTS!"
The champions raise their title belts above their heads.
'Honest' Abe collects the championships and displays them to both teams before raising them toward the hard camera.
The titles are handed to the ringside attendant.
Karnyx steps forward for the champions.
Sir Galahad enters for the challengers.
The referee signals for the bell.
DING! DING! DING!
Minute 1
Karnyx advances immediately, forcing Sir Galahad toward the centre of the ring.
The two competitors lock up.
The champion uses his superior size to force the knight backward before securing a tight chinlock.
Sir Galahad struggles against the pressure, planting his feet and attempting to break the grip around his head.
Karnyx tightens the hold, but the challenger manages to twist beneath his opponent's arm.
Sir Galahad hooks the champion's leg and lifts him into a leg-hook belly-to-back suplex.
Karnyx crashes onto the canvas.
The crowd cheers as Sir Galahad rises.
The champion rolls toward his corner and reaches out.
Varak accepts the tag.
Julian Ward: "An excellent opening exchange from Sir Galahad. Karnyx attempted to control the contest through his superior strength, but the challenger demonstrated the technical ability that has made the Virtuous Blades such a formidable team."
Brick Brody: "Galahad got him off his feet, but Karnyx was smart enough to get out of there. Now Varak gets a chance to see whether that knight can throw him around just as easily."
Minute 2
Varak steps through the ropes and immediately charges toward Sir Galahad.
The challenger attempts to intercept him, but the champion catches him with overwhelming force.
Varak lifts Sir Galahad and delivers the WRECKING CRANE, driving him into the canvas.
The impact shakes the ring.
Sir Galahad struggles to recover as Varak rises.
The knight rolls toward the corner and pulls himself upright.
He attempts to create an opening for THE CHOSEN FALL, but Varak denies him the opportunity to establish his footing and launch the aerial attack.
Sir Galahad is forced back toward the centre of the ring.
Varak watches him briefly before retreating toward his own corner.
He tags Karnyx back into the contest.
Julian Ward: "The Wrecking Crane connects, and Sir Galahad has been denied the opportunity to execute the Chosen Fall. Varak has immediately changed the physical complexion of this contest."
Brick Brody: "That's the mistake these knights can't afford to make. You don't get a chance to climb the ropes and show off when Varak's got his hands on you. He'll put you through the canvas before you get halfway up."
Minute 3
Karnyx enters and advances toward the challenger.
Sir Galahad steps forward, catches the champion around the waist, and uses his momentum to lift him.
The knight drives Karnyx into the canvas with a MICHINOKU DRIVER II-B!
The crowd erupts as the champion crashes onto his back.
Karnyx attempts to protect himself during the descent but cannot prevent the impact.
Sir Galahad rises and looks toward his corner.
Merlin nods approvingly from ringside.
The knight reaches out and tags Sir Gawain.
Across the ring, Karnyx rolls toward his partner.
Varak accepts the tag.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous Michinoku Driver from Sir Galahad! He has once again demonstrated that the champions can be taken off their feet, and now Sir Gawain enters the contest."
Brick Brody: "That's the kind of wrestling the Virtuous Blades need. Don't stand there trading punches with these monsters. Get them off balance, put them down, and make sure they don't get back up."
Minute 4
Sir Gawain steps between the ropes and advances toward Varak.
The champion immediately charges.
Varak catches the knight and drives him toward the canvas with the WRECKING CRANE.
Sir Gawain attempts to rise, but Karnyx enters the ring and connects with a powerful WILD HAYMAKER.
Sir Galahad immediately rushes through the ropes to assist his partner.
'Honest' Abe attempts to restore order, but all four competitors are now exchanging attacks.
Sir Gawain catches Karnyx and drives him down with a powerful backbreaker.
Across the ring, Sir Galahad creates enough distance from Varak to climb the turnbuckles.
The challenger launches himself into the air!
THE CHOSEN FALL!
Sir Galahad connects with the spectacular 630 senton, crashing down across Varak!
The crowd erupts.
Julian Ward: "All four men are involved, and Sir Galahad has connected with the Chosen Fall! An extraordinary aerial attack against one of the reigning champions!"
Brick Brody: "Now that's how you hurt a Beast! Galahad just dropped his entire body across Varak, and Gawain planted Karnyx with that backbreaker. These knights are throwing everything they've got at the champions!"
'Honest' Abe orders Sir Galahad and Karnyx back to their respective corners.
Both men reluctantly comply.
Sir Gawain remains in the ring with Varak.
Minute 5
Sir Gawain advances as Varak struggles to recover from the Chosen Fall.
The challenger catches the champion and lifts him into a powerful fallaway slam.
Varak crashes onto his back.
Sir Gawain immediately calls for his partner.
Sir Galahad enters the ring, and the Virtuous Blades execute a coordinated attack.
Sir Gawain pulls the champion upright, allowing Sir Galahad to secure him for another MICHINOKU DRIVER II-B.
Varak is driven into the canvas.
The crowd cheers as the knights attempt to capitalize.
But Varak refuses to remain down.
He forces himself upright and catches Sir Gawain as the knight approaches.
The champion lifts his opponent and delivers a devastating SHATTERING SUPLEX!
Sir Gawain crashes onto his back.
'Honest' Abe orders Sir Galahad back to the apron.
Julian Ward: "The Virtuous Blades have demonstrated excellent teamwork, but Varak has answered with a Shattering Suplex. Neither team has been able to establish sustained control."
Brick Brody: "That suplex is exactly why you don't give Varak an inch. The knights had him hurt, and he still found enough strength to pick Gawain up and put him down hard."
Minute 6
Varak reaches down and pulls Sir Gawain toward the centre of the ring.
The champion attempts to secure another SHATTERING SUPLEX.
This time, Sir Gawain recognizes the danger.
He widens his stance and prevents Varak from lifting him.
The champion attempts to adjust his grip, but Sir Gawain breaks free and forces him backward.
The knight creates enough separation to reach his corner.
Sir Galahad extends his hand.
The tag is made.
Julian Ward: "Sir Gawain successfully prevents a second Shattering Suplex and makes the tag to his partner. A sensible decision after the punishment he has already endured."
Brick Brody: "He had to get out of there. Varak was about to drop him again, and Galahad's the fresher man. That's what a tag team partner is for."
Minute 7
Sir Galahad enters and immediately advances toward Varak.
The champion retreats toward the ropes.
At ringside, Marcus the Beastmaster moves closer to the apron.
He quietly wraps his chain around his fist.
As Sir Galahad approaches the ropes, Marcus suddenly strikes him with the chain-wrapped fist!
The impact catches the knight across the upper body and sends him stumbling backward.
The crowd erupts in boos.
'Honest' Abe turns toward Varak, who immediately moves forward to occupy the referee's attention.
Julian Ward: "Marcus the Beastmaster has struck Sir Galahad with that chain! The referee did not see it!"
Brick Brody: "That's why Marcus is out there, Julian! Galahad got too close to the ropes, and the Beastmaster made sure he paid for it."
Merlin immediately approaches the referee's side of the ring.
Merlin: "Referee! The chain! He struck him with the chain!"
'Honest' Abe turns toward Merlin and orders him to return to his corner.
Meanwhile, Varak seizes the opportunity to force the injured knight backward.
Sir Galahad struggles to regain his footing.
Varak retreats toward his corner and tags Karnyx.
Sir Galahad manages to reach his own corner.
He extends his hand toward Sir Gawain.
The tag is made.
Julian Ward: "An illegal strike from Marcus has interrupted the challengers' momentum, and both teams have now made substitutions."
Brick Brody: "Merlin can complain all he wants. Abe didn't see the chain, and that's all Marcus needs."
Minute 8
Sir Gawain steps through the ropes and moves toward Karnyx.
The champion catches him and drives him toward the ropes.
Sir Gawain attempts to break free, but Karnyx maintains control long enough to create an opening for Marcus the Beastmaster.
As 'Honest' Abe moves toward the opposite side of the ring, Marcus reaches through the ropes.
He wraps the chain across Sir Gawain's throat and pulls backward!
The knight struggles against the illegal choke.
Julian Ward: "Marcus is choking Sir Gawain from ringside! The referee's attention has been diverted, and the Beastmaster is interfering once again!"
Brick Brody: "Marcus has found the weak spot in the Virtuous Blades' strategy. They're watching Karnyx and Varak, but they keep forgetting about the man outside the ring."
Sir Gawain attempts to pry the chain away from his throat.
Marcus maintains the pressure for several seconds before releasing the hold.
The knight staggers forward, clutching his neck.
Karnyx immediately closes the distance.
Merlin moves toward 'Honest' Abe, pointing furiously at Marcus.
'Honest' Abe warns both managers to remain in their designated corners.
Sir Gawain struggles to recover as Karnyx advances.
Minute 9
Karnyx forces Sir Gawain toward the Ultimate Beasts' corner.
Varak steps through the ropes.
The champions move together, attempting to overwhelm the injured knight.
Karnyx reaches forward to rake Sir Gawain's eyes.
But the challenger anticipates the attack.
He catches the champion's arm and forces him backward.
As Varak approaches, Sir Gawain secures a grip around the larger man's torso.
With a tremendous effort, the knight lifts him into a CRUCIFIX POWERBOMB!
Varak crashes onto the canvas!
The crowd erupts.
Karnyx stops his advance momentarily as Sir Gawain rises.
Julian Ward: "Sir Gawain has countered the attempted double-team attack! A tremendous Crucifix Powerbomb against Varak!"
Brick Brody: "That's impressive! Gawain's been choked, beaten, and thrown around, and he still found enough strength to put Varak down. The champions had better stop giving him openings."
Sir Gawain moves toward his corner, but Karnyx cuts off his path.
Varak begins to recover.
The champions converge on the challenger once more.
Minute 10
Karnyx catches Sir Gawain and rakes his eyes.
The knight recoils, raising his hands toward his face.
Varak immediately seizes his exposed arm and applies an armbar.
Sir Gawain struggles against the pressure as Karnyx moves closer.
The champion attempts to maintain the advantage, but Sir Gawain plants his feet.
He twists his body, forcing Varak to release the hold.
The knight catches Karnyx as he approaches and lifts him into a fallaway slam!
Karnyx crashes into the canvas.
Sir Gawain drops to one knee, clutching his arm.
Julian Ward: "Another remarkable counter from Sir Gawain! Despite the combined pressure of the champions, he has managed to deliver a fallaway slam to Karnyx."
Brick Brody: "But look at him, Julian. He's hurting. Every time he fights out of one of these attacks, he has to get through another one. That's going to catch up with him."
Varak moves toward the challenger.
Sir Gawain attempts to rise as the champions continue their assault.
'Honest' Abe orders Varak to return to the apron.
The champion refuses to withdraw immediately.
Minute 11
Sir Gawain struggles back to his feet.
Karnyx steps forward and delivers a powerful WILD HAYMAKER.
The blow forces the knight backward.
Varak remains close to the ropes, waiting for an opportunity to assist his partner.
Sir Gawain ducks beneath another reaching arm.
He catches Karnyx around the shoulders and uses his remaining strength to lift him.
CRUCIFIX POWERBOMB!
The champion crashes into the canvas!
The crowd erupts as Sir Gawain drops to one knee.
Julian Ward: "Another Crucifix Powerbomb! Sir Gawain has managed to turn the champions' aggression against them, but he is struggling to remain on his feet."
Brick Brody: "He keeps finding a way to throw these Beasts around, and I'll give him credit for that. But he's not looking too steady himself. He needs Galahad back in this match."
Sir Galahad extends his hand from the apron.
Merlin calls toward Sir Gawain, urging him to make the tag.
Sir Gawain begins moving toward his corner.
But Karnyx rises before the challenger can reach his partner.
The champion steps into his path.
Sir Gawain attempts to move around him.
Karnyx catches him.
The knight struggles to break free, but the accumulated punishment has begun to take its toll.
Minute 12
Karnyx seizes Sir Gawain and forces him toward the centre of the ring.
The challenger attempts to resist, but his movements have slowed considerably.
Karnyx lifts him and delivers a devastating RUMBLE-SLAM!
Sir Gawain crashes into the canvas.
The impact leaves the knight clutching his body, unable to immediately defend himself.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous Rumble-Slam from Karnyx! Sir Gawain is in serious difficulty, and the accumulated punishment appears to have left him injured."
Brick Brody: "That's what happens when you keep trying to fight two monsters by yourself. Gawain's been taking a beating for the last several minutes, and now Karnyx has finally got him where he wants him."
Karnyx drops across the challenger and hooks the leg.
'Honest' Abe moves into position.
ONE!
TWO!
Sir Gawain kicks out!
The crowd erupts as the knight manages to lift his shoulder before the final count.
Karnyx releases the cover and rises.
He looks toward Marcus the Beastmaster.
The Beastmaster gestures toward the injured challenger, ordering the champion to continue the assault.
Julian Ward: "Sir Gawain survives the Rumble-Slam! An extraordinary display of resilience, but he is still a considerable distance from his partner."
Brick Brody: "He kicked out, Julian, but look at the condition he's in. He's barely moving. Karnyx doesn't need to give him another chance."
Sir Galahad leans over the ropes.
Sir Galahad: "Gawain! Reach for me!"
Sir Gawain attempts to pull himself toward the corner.
But Karnyx steps between the knight and his partner.
Minute 13
Sir Gawain struggles to rise.
Karnyx reaches down and seizes him.
The champion lifts the injured knight with one arm.
For a brief moment, Sir Gawain hangs helplessly above the canvas.
Then Karnyx delivers a devastating ONE HAND TOSS!
The challenger crashes onto his back.
The crowd reacts as Sir Gawain remains motionless.
Julian Ward: "The One Hand Toss! Karnyx has just driven the injured Sir Gawain into the canvas!"
Brick Brody: "That's it! Gawain's got nothing left! Karnyx has been beating on him, and now he's finished the job!"
Karnyx drops across the challenger and hooks the leg.
Sir Galahad reaches desperately through the ropes, but his partner is too far away.
'Honest' Abe drops into position.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
DING! DING! DING!
The crowd responds with a mixture of cheers and boos as Karnyx releases the cover.
Sir Gawain remains on the canvas, clutching his body.
Sir Galahad enters the ring and moves immediately toward his fallen partner.
Across the ring, Varak steps through the ropes and joins Karnyx.
Marcus the Beastmaster climbs onto the apron, his chain still hanging from his hand.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, here are your winners... AND STILL NPCW UNIVERSAL TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS... KARNYX AND VARAK... THE ULTIMATE BEASTS!"
'Honest' Abe retrieves the championships and presents them to the victors.
Marcus enters the ring and raises the arms of both champions.
Karnyx lifts his championship above his head.
Varak raises his own title before turning toward the fallen challenger.
The Ultimate Beasts stand over the Virtuous Blades for a moment.
Marcus gestures toward the entrance ramp, and the champions begin to leave the ring.
On the opposite side, Merlin enters and kneels beside Sir Gawain.
Sir Galahad helps his partner into a seated position.
Sir Gawain attempts to rise but struggles to place weight on his legs.
Merlin places a hand on his shoulder, urging him to remain still.
The camera follows the Ultimate Beasts as they begin their victorious walk up the entrance ramp.
Julian Ward: "The Ultimate Beasts retain the Universal Tag Team Championship after a punishing encounter with the Virtuous Blades. Sir Galahad and Sir Gawain demonstrated considerable skill and resilience, but the champions' physical dominance, combined with repeated interference from Marcus the Beastmaster, ultimately proved too much for the challengers."
Brick Brody: "Gawain put up one hell of a fight, Julian. He threw both of those Beasts around and refused to stay down after that Rumble-Slam. But Marcus did his job, the champions kept the pressure on, and Karnyx finished him with that One Hand Toss. That's why they're still carrying the gold."
Julian Ward: "The Ultimate Beasts leave Age of Ruin with their championship reign intact, while the Virtuous Blades must now contend with both the physical consequences of this defeat and the disappointment of failing to bring the Universal Tag Team Championship into Camelot. With King Arthur's Mythic Crown defence still to come tonight, the kingdom's hopes of championship glory now rest heavily upon its reigning monarch."
RESULT: THE ULTIMATE BEASTS (KARNYX & VARAK) DEFEAT THE VIRTUOUS BLADES (SIR GALAHAD & SIR GAWAIN) BY PINFALL IN THE 13TH MINUTE AFTER KARNYX DELIVERS THE ONE HAND TOSS TO SIR GAWAIN, RETAINING THE NPCW UNIVERSAL TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP.
The cameras cut backstage to a private dressing room within Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum.
A polished black door bears a small silver plaque.
SEVERIN CROWNE
Inside, the atmosphere is considerably different from the celebrations taking place elsewhere in the arena.
There is no music. No champagne. No shouting.
A large table occupies the centre of the room. Several black business cards have been arranged neatly across its polished surface.
Standing at the head of the table is Severin Crowne, dressed in his immaculate black suit.
Beside him stand the Sheriff of Nottingham, the Eternal Flame Championship resting over his shoulder, and Sir Agravaine, who remains in his wrestling attire following their victory earlier in the evening.
Across the room stand the Queens of Despair, Regina and Malice.
Regina stands with her arms folded, her expression one of aristocratic satisfaction. Beside her, Malice watches the room with a cold, unsettling intensity.
Near the doorway stands Huntsman.
Unlike the others, he appears distinctly uncomfortable.
His arms are folded tightly across his chest, and he occasionally glances toward the door. He keeps a noticeable distance from the rest of the group, his expression suggesting that he has little enthusiasm for the gathering taking place around him.
And seated at the table is the newest addition to this assembly.
Tin Man.
The former Wizard's Warriors member sits silently, his metallic hands resting upon the polished surface.
One of Severin Crowne's black business cards lies directly in front of him.
Hana Nakamura enters the room with her microphone.
She surveys the assembled group before approaching Severin.
Hana Nakamura: "Severin, earlier tonight, you, Sir Agravaine, and the Sheriff of Nottingham defeated the Wizard's Warriors in a match that ended with a shocking betrayal."
"Tin Man refused to tag Scarecrow and subsequently joined you in attacking Lion, leaving his former partners helpless."
"Now we find him here, alongside several other individuals who have become increasingly associated with you."
"Can you explain exactly what we're witnessing?"
Severin Crowne looks toward Hana.
He offers a small, courteous smile.
Severin Crowne: "Miss Nakamura. An excellent question."
"Although I would suggest that you have already answered a portion of it yourself."
He gestures toward the assembled group.
Severin Crowne: "Look around this room."
"An established champion. A knight who understands that influence is not dependent upon the approval of a kingdom."
"Two queens who appreciate the distinction between possessing a throne and exercising genuine authority."
"A hunter whose particular talents require very little introduction."
His eyes move briefly toward Huntsman.
The hunter shifts his weight, looking away from Severin.
Severin Crowne: "And now..."
He turns his attention toward Tin Man.
Severin Crowne: "A man who has finally begun to appreciate the difference between belonging to something and being valued by it."
Tin Man remains motionless.
Hana Nakamura: "Are you saying that Tin Man's actions tonight were planned? That you convinced him to turn against his own partners?"
Severin Crowne looks back toward Hana.
Severin Crowne: "You use such emotional language, Miss Nakamura."
"Betrayal. Loyalty. Friendship."
"Comfortable words, certainly. They provide people with a sense of security. They allow individuals to believe that the arrangements they have entered into will continue to serve their interests indefinitely."
He picks up a black card from the table.
Severin Crowne: "The Wizard's Warriors were an arrangement."
"Three individuals brought together by a common history and an increasingly questionable belief that their collective identity would somehow guarantee their continued relevance."
"An admirable sentiment, perhaps."
"But sentiment is not a strategy."
Hana Nakamura: "Lion and Scarecrow clearly trusted Tin Man. They believed he would be there when they needed him."
Severin Crowne: "And therein lies the fundamental weakness of their position."
"They believed."
He places the card back on the table.
Severin Crowne: "I prefer to know."
The camera briefly focuses on Tin Man, whose attention remains fixed upon the card in front of him.
Severin Crowne: "I know what each individual in this room brings to the table."
"I know what they want. I understand what they can offer. And, perhaps most importantly, I understand what becomes possible when those interests are properly aligned."
He turns toward the Sheriff of Nottingham and Sir Agravaine.
Severin Crowne: "Consider our victory tonight."
"Three men with different backgrounds, different obligations, and different objectives."
"Yet when those objectives aligned, the result was entirely predictable."
"The Sheriff continues to hold the Eternal Flame Championship. Sir Agravaine has demonstrated that his abilities remain a considerable asset."
"And I..."
He pauses.
Severin Crowne: "I have acquired another valuable associate."
Hana Nakamura: "You keep referring to associates and aligned interests. Is this the beginning of a new faction?"
Severin Crowne smiles.
Severin Crowne: "A faction."
"A rather limiting term, don't you think?"
"Factions are formed every week in this business. Men gather together, invent a name, declare themselves brothers, and promise the world that nothing will ever come between them."
"Then somebody loses a championship. Somebody else receives an opportunity they believe should have been theirs. And suddenly all those declarations of eternal loyalty become considerably less persuasive."
Severin walks slowly around the table.
Severin Crowne: "No, Miss Nakamura."
"What I am assembling is something far more deliberate."
He stops beside Regina and Malice.
Severin Crowne: "The Queens of Despair understand the importance of influence. A throne is a useful instrument, but only when the individual occupying it possesses the means to enforce their will."
He turns toward Huntsman.
Severin Crowne: "Huntsman understands the value of precision. A task is identified. An objective is established. The work is completed."
Huntsman shifts uncomfortably.
He glances toward Severin, then lowers his eyes.
His expression suggests that he would prefer to be anywhere else.
Severin notices the reaction but offers no acknowledgment.
Instead, he returns his attention to Hana.
Severin Crowne: "And the men who stood beside me tonight have demonstrated that the most effective alliances are those built upon a clear understanding of mutual benefit."
He returns to the head of the table.
Severin Crowne: "You see, a new age is dawning in the Mythic Division."
"An age in which the old certainties are beginning to disappear."
"Kingdoms are being challenged. Alliances are being reconsidered. Champions are discovering that the titles they carry do not necessarily guarantee the authority they believe themselves entitled to exercise."
"And throughout all of this upheaval, individuals are being presented with choices."
"Some will cling desperately to arrangements that have long since ceased to serve them."
"Others will recognize that the world is changing and position themselves accordingly."
Hana Nakamura: "And you intend to be the one determining how this new age develops?"
Severin Crowne looks directly into the camera.
Severin Crowne: "I intend to ensure that the individuals in this room are not merely participants in the new age, Miss Nakamura."
"We will be its power brokers."
"The people who understand which alliances must be made, which opportunities must be secured, and which decisions must be taken before anyone else realizes that a decision was required."
He gestures toward the others.
Severin Crowne: "Others may concern themselves with the appearance of power."
"They may fight over crowns. They may quarrel over titles and argue about who is entitled to command the loyalty of an entire kingdom."
"Let them."
"While they are occupied with such matters, we will concern ourselves with something considerably more enduring."
"Influence."
Hana Nakamura: "Does that mean you're planning to expand this group even further?"
Severin Crowne: "Of course."
"I have never understood the wisdom of closing a door simply because a room has become comfortable."
"There are individuals throughout NPCW who possess considerable ability but find themselves constrained by outdated loyalties, misplaced obligations, or circumstances that no longer reflect their value."
"Those individuals deserve an opportunity to consider an alternative."
He reaches into his jacket and withdraws another black business card.
Severin Crowne: "And I am always willing to discuss a mutually beneficial arrangement."
Hana Nakamura: "With King Arthur defending the Mythic Crown against Robin Hood later tonight, the entire Mythic Division could look very different by the end of the evening."
"Does the outcome of that match have any bearing on the plans you're describing?"
Severin Crowne considers the question for a moment.
Severin Crowne: "Every significant result has consequences, Miss Nakamura."
"The outcome of tonight's main event will determine who carries the Mythic Crown Championship."
"It will also establish certain obligations which, I suspect, will prove considerably more interesting than the championship itself."
He adjusts the cuff of his jacket.
Severin Crowne: "As for whether those consequences will affect my plans..."
A faint smile crosses his face.
Severin Crowne: "I have always believed that a sensible man prepares for every eventuality."
Hana Nakamura: "So you'll be watching the main event closely?"
Severin Crowne: "Miss Nakamura..."
He looks directly at her.
Severin Crowne: "I watch everything closely."
He returns to his place at the head of the table.
Severin Crowne: "Now, if you'll excuse us, we have several matters to discuss."
Hana Nakamura nods and begins moving toward the door.
As she passes Huntsman, the camera catches him glancing toward her.
For a moment, he appears ready to say something.
But he remains silent.
Severin Crowne: "One more thing, Miss Nakamura."
She turns.
Severin Crowne: "Tonight's event is called Age of Ruin."
"A compelling title. Particularly for those who believe that the destruction of an existing order must necessarily be a tragedy."
He looks around the room.
Severin Crowne: "But ruin is a remarkably subjective concept."
"What one man perceives as the collapse of everything he has built..."
"Another recognizes as the opportunity to build something considerably more valuable."
He takes the black card from the table and places it directly in front of Tin Man.
Severin Crowne: "The old age is ending."
"And when the new one begins, the people who matter will know precisely whom they need to speak to."
Severin looks directly into the camera.
Severin Crowne: "My card, as always, is available."
The camera slowly pulls back.
Severin Crowne remains standing at the head of the table.
Behind him stand the Sheriff of Nottingham, Sir Agravaine, Regina, and Malice.
Huntsman remains near the doorway, noticeably detached from the others.
He looks toward the assembled group before glancing down at the floor.
His discomfort is unmistakable.
At the table, Tin Man finally reaches forward and picks up the black business card.
He turns it over in his metallic hand.
The camera focuses on the card.
SEVERIN CROWNE
The image fades to black.
Referee: 'Honest' Abe
The cameras return to Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum as the North Star Tag Team Championship graphic fills the arena screens.
The reigning champions, Alice and Dorothy, have faced formidable opposition throughout their championship reign. Tonight, the Blonde Bombshells face another significant challenge as Athena and Bellona, representing the War Council, seek to bring the North Star Tag Team Championship under the control of the Olympian gods.
And at ringside, overseeing the challengers, will be Zeus himself.
Julian Ward: "We return to championship action here at Age of Ruin. The Blonde Bombshells have established themselves as a resilient and accomplished tag team, but tonight they face two opponents whose ambitions extend well beyond winning another championship. Athena and Bellona seek to establish the War Council as a dominant force in the Mythic Division."
Brick Brody: "And they've got the power to do it, Julian. Athena can hurt you in a dozen different ways, Bellona lives for a fight, and Zeus isn't bringing them out here for a sightseeing trip. He wants those championship belts."
Julian Ward: "Alice and Dorothy have repeatedly demonstrated their ability to survive difficult circumstances. Their contrasting wrestling styles have become one of their greatest strengths, and that versatility may prove essential against opponents who are accustomed to dictating the terms of every confrontation."
Brick Brody: "They'd better use every trick they've learned, because I don't think the gods of war are interested in giving them a fairytale ending."
The arena lights dim.
A deep, resonant thunderclap echoes throughout the Coliseum.
The entrance screens illuminate with images of ancient temples, bronze shields, and armies marching beneath the banners of Olympus.
A bolt of lightning strikes the centre of the screen.
Zeus emerges onto the entrance stage.
The imposing Olympian surveys the arena with an expression of absolute authority.
Behind him appear Athena and Bellona.
Athena walks with measured confidence, her attention fixed upon the ring. Her battle-inspired wrestling attire reflects the discipline and authority of a goddess accustomed to commanding warriors.
Beside her, Bellona carries herself with a more openly aggressive demeanour.
She strikes her fist against her palm before looking toward the championship graphic above the entrance stage.
Zeus raises his arm.
Another thunderclap echoes throughout the arena as the three begin their approach.
Julian Ward: "The War Council has made its intentions clear. Athena and Bellona intend to secure the North Star Tag Team Championship, and Zeus has personally accompanied them to oversee their pursuit of the titles."
Brick Brody: "Look at those two, Julian. Athena's already studying the ring, and Bellona looks like she's ready to tear somebody apart. That's a dangerous combination when you've got championship gold on the line."
The challengers reach ringside.
Zeus moves toward the corner and gestures for his warriors to enter.
Athena steps between the ropes, followed by Bellona.
The two women stand together in the centre of the ring as Zeus takes his position at ringside.
The arena lights suddenly shift.
The entrance screens fill with brilliant gold and emerald imagery.
The Blonde Bombshells entrance theme echoes throughout the Coliseum.
The crowd erupts as Alice and Dorothy emerge onto the stage, their North Star Tag Team Championship belts resting over their shoulders.
Alice raises her championship and smiles toward the audience.
Beside her, Dorothy acknowledges the crowd before turning her attention toward the ring.
The two champions exchange a confident nod.
They begin walking down the ramp together.
Julian Ward: "Alice and Dorothy have faced challenges from across the Mythic Division, and their partnership continues to develop with every championship defence. Alice brings extraordinary agility and an unpredictable offensive style, while Dorothy combines physical strength with the ability to control the pace of a contest."
Brick Brody: "And they're going to need both tonight. You can't just throw yourself at Athena and Bellona and expect them to fall down. These two know how to fight, and they know how to make their opponents suffer."
The champions reach ringside.
Alice looks toward Zeus, who watches their arrival without acknowledging her.
Dorothy places a hand on her partner's shoulder, directing her attention toward the ring.
The Blonde Bombshells enter together.
Athena and Bellona step forward, but 'Honest' Abe immediately moves between the teams.
The champions raise their belts toward the challengers.
Athena studies the titles with a cold expression.
Bellona smiles, looking from the championships to the women holding them.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall and is for the NPCW NORTH STAR TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP!"
The crowd cheers.
Louie Linville: "Introducing first, the challengers! Accompanied to the ring by Zeus! Representing the War Council... ATHENA AND BELLONA!"
Athena raises her arm while Bellona steps forward and gestures toward the championship belts.
Louie Linville: "And their opponents! They are the reigning and defending NPCW NORTH STAR TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS... ALICE AND DOROTHY... THE BLONDE BOMBSHELLS!"
The champions raise their belts to an enormous reaction.
'Honest' Abe collects the championships and displays them to both teams.
He raises the titles toward the hard camera before handing them to the ringside attendant.
Alice steps forward for the champions.
Athena enters for the challengers.
Dorothy and Bellona take their positions on their respective aprons.
The referee signals for the bell.
DING! DING! DING!
Minute 1
Alice moves toward the centre of the ring, attempting to circle the larger challenger.
Athena refuses to allow her the opportunity.
The goddess steps forward, catches Alice around the waist, and lifts her high above the canvas.
Alice struggles to escape, but Athena maintains her grip.
With a powerful motion, she drives the champion down with the GODDESS BOMB!
The impact sends a shock through the ring.
Alice rolls onto her side, clutching her back.
Athena rises and looks toward the champions' corner.
Julian Ward: "The Goddess Bomb connects in the opening minute! Athena has immediately demonstrated the physical danger awaiting the Blonde Bombshells."
Brick Brody: "That's how you make an entrance, Julian! Alice came out looking to move around her, and Athena just picked her up and drove her into the mat. No wasted effort."
Alice struggles toward her corner.
Dorothy extends her arm, and the champions make the tag.
Minute 2
Dorothy enters and immediately advances toward Athena.
The goddess steps forward to meet her.
Dorothy strikes first, delivering a sharp backhand chop across Athena's chest.
The challenger recoils but quickly moves behind the champion.
Athena secures a rear chinlock and drives her knee into Dorothy's back, applying the GORGON CLUTCH.
Dorothy struggles against the pressure, attempting to pry the goddess's hands away from her chin.
She finally forces enough separation to escape and moves toward her corner.
Athena releases her grip and retreats toward Bellona.
Both teams make the tag.
Julian Ward: "Dorothy answers Athena's opening aggression, but the goddess immediately attempts to control her with the Gorgon Clutch. Both teams are already making use of their partners to avoid prolonged punishment."
Brick Brody: "Smart wrestling from both sides. Dorothy got out of that hold before Athena could do any real damage, and now Bellona gets her first chance to put the champions through their paces."
Minute 3
Bellona enters aggressively, moving directly toward Alice.
The champion uses her superior agility to avoid the initial confrontation.
As Bellona advances again, Alice catches her around the head and launches into the WONDERLAND WHIRL HURRICANRANA!
The goddess is sent crashing across the canvas.
Bellona lands awkwardly and immediately reaches toward her upper body.
She attempts to rise but struggles to establish her footing.
Alice recognizes the opening and moves toward her injured opponent.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous Wonderland Whirl Hurricanrana from Alice! Bellona has landed awkwardly, and the challenger appears to be in considerable discomfort."
Brick Brody: "That's the danger of letting Alice get those legs around your head. Bellona came in looking for a fight, and now she's having trouble getting off the canvas."
Zeus moves closer to the ring, watching Bellona carefully.
Alice remains on the offensive.
Minute 4
Bellona attempts to pull herself upright using the ropes.
Alice closes the distance before the challenger can recover.
She catches Bellona and forces her back toward the canvas.
The champion positions herself above her fallen opponent and launches into a DOUBLE KNEEDROP!
Both knees crash into Bellona's upper body.
The goddess cries out and rolls onto her side.
Alice rises, watching the injured challenger struggle to recover.
Julian Ward: "Alice has identified the opening and is continuing to target Bellona. That double kneedrop has compounded the damage from the hurricanrana."
Brick Brody: "And that's exactly what she should be doing. Bellona's hurt, Julian. You don't give somebody like that a chance to recover. You keep hitting her until she can't get back up."
Alice moves toward her corner.
Dorothy extends her hand.
The champions make the tag.
Minute 5
Dorothy enters and immediately closes the distance.
Bellona attempts to rise, but the champion catches her around the waist.
With a powerful lift, Dorothy delivers a SPINEBUSTER!
The challenger crashes into the canvas.
The crowd cheers as Dorothy rises.
But Bellona refuses to surrender the exchange.
She catches the champion's leg as Dorothy approaches again.
The goddess sweeps her opponent off her feet and immediately transitions into an ankle lock!
THE BATTLEFIELD SWEEP!
Dorothy cries out as Bellona twists her ankle.
Julian Ward: "The Battlefield Sweep! Bellona has turned a defensive position into a dangerous submission hold, and Dorothy is trapped!"
Brick Brody: "That's the War Council right there! Bellona was getting beaten down, but the moment Dorothy gave her a leg, she took it. Now let's see how well the champion handles having that ankle twisted."
'Honest' Abe moves into position.
'Honest' Abe: "Dorothy! Do you submit?"
Dorothy shakes her head.
She plants her free foot against the canvas and attempts to turn toward the ropes.
Bellona tightens the hold.
The champion reaches forward, dragging herself closer to her corner.
With a final effort, Dorothy manages to break free.
She rolls toward Alice.
Bellona releases the hold and retreats toward Athena.
Both teams make the tag.
Minute 6
Alice steps through the ropes and moves toward Athena.
The goddess attempts to seize her, but the champion catches her opponent's arm and twists it into a KEYLOCK.
Athena struggles against the pressure before turning her body and forcing Alice backward.
The challenger slips behind her opponent.
She secures the GORGON CLUTCH, pulling Alice's chin backward while driving her knee into the champion's spine.
Alice attempts to break the grip.
She twists her body, creating enough separation to escape.
The champion moves toward her corner and tags Dorothy.
Julian Ward: "An exchange of submission holds between Alice and Athena. Both women understand that limiting an opponent's mobility can be just as important as delivering a decisive strike."
Brick Brody: "Especially against Alice. If Athena can slow those legs down, she takes away half the champion's offense. But Alice was smart enough to get out of there before the goddess could really lock it in."
Minute 7
Dorothy enters and advances toward Athena.
The goddess attempts to establish a defensive position, but the champion catches her around the waist.
Dorothy lifts Athena and delivers a powerful BODYSLAM.
The challenger crashes onto her back.
Dorothy immediately moves into the cover.
'Honest' Abe drops into position.
ONE!
Athena kicks out!
The champion releases the cover and returns to her feet.
Julian Ward: "Dorothy brings Athena down with the bodyslam, but the challenger escapes the early pin attempt."
Brick Brody: "Athena's not going down after one bodyslam, Julian. Dorothy needs to keep the pressure on and make sure that goddess doesn't get a chance to bring Bellona back in."
Dorothy retreats toward her corner.
Alice accepts the tag.
Across the ring, Athena reaches Bellona.
The challengers make their own substitution.
Minute 8
Alice enters and moves quickly toward Bellona.
The champion attempts to use her agility to circle the challenger.
But Bellona steps forward and catches her with a devastating CRIMSON SPEAR!
The impact drives Alice into the canvas.
The crowd reacts as the champion rolls onto her side.
Bellona rises and looks toward Zeus, who nods approvingly from ringside.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous Crimson Spear from Bellona! The challenger has recovered sufficiently to deliver one of her most dangerous attacks."
Brick Brody: "That's what Bellona needed! Alice was running circles around her earlier, and now she's the one lying flat on her back. You can't keep a goddess of war down forever."
Alice struggles toward her corner.
Dorothy reaches down and accepts the tag.
Minute 9
Dorothy enters and immediately advances toward Bellona.
The challenger catches her with a powerful forearm across the upper body.
Dorothy staggers backward.
Bellona follows with another forearm, forcing the champion toward the ropes.
She continues the assault, delivering multiple forearms across Dorothy's upper body.
The champion raises her arms to protect herself but cannot establish an immediate counterattack.
Julian Ward: "Bellona has taken control with a sustained series of forearm strikes. Dorothy is absorbing considerable punishment, and the challenger is attempting to prevent her from finding any offensive rhythm."
Brick Brody: "That's how Bellona wants to fight. Get somebody against the ropes, start swinging, and don't stop until they can't stand up anymore."
Dorothy finally creates enough separation to retreat toward her corner.
She reaches out and tags Alice.
Minute 10
Alice enters and moves toward Bellona.
The challenger immediately reaches toward her corner.
Athena enters, and the War Council launches a coordinated attack.
Bellona catches Alice and drives her into the canvas with the IMPERIUM BOMB!
As the champion attempts to recover, Athena moves behind her.
The goddess secures the GORGON CLUTCH, forcing Alice backward and applying pressure to her neck and spine.
Julian Ward: "The War Council has taken advantage of its combined strength! The Imperium Bomb followed by the Gorgon Clutch has placed Alice in serious difficulty."
Brick Brody: "Now they're showing what they can do together. Bellona drops her on her back, and Athena makes sure she doesn't get a chance to recover."
Alice struggles against the hold.
She twists her body and manages to break free from Athena's grip.
As Bellona approaches, the champion leaps forward and catches her with another WONDERLAND WHIRL HURRICANRANA!
Bellona crashes onto the canvas.
Alice rises as 'Honest' Abe orders Athena back to the apron.
Julian Ward: "Alice escapes and answers with the Wonderland Whirl! An extraordinary counterattack from the champion, who has managed to disrupt the War Council's coordinated assault."
Brick Brody: "That's the problem with Alice. You think you've finally got her trapped, and suddenly she's throwing somebody across the ring with those legs."
Minute 11
Bellona rises and advances toward Alice.
The challenger delivers a series of heavy forearms, forcing the champion backward.
Alice absorbs the strikes before catching Bellona as she attempts another attack.
The champion hooks her opponent and drives her down with the CODE RED SUNSET FLIP POWERBOMB!
The crowd erupts as Bellona crashes into the canvas.
Alice releases the maneuver and rises.
Bellona rolls toward her corner.
Julian Ward: "Code Red from Alice! A tremendous powerbomb variation, and Bellona has been driven into the canvas once again."
Brick Brody: "Alice has been taking some hard shots, but she keeps finding a way to put Bellona down. Both teams are starting to show the effects of this match."
Alice moves toward her corner.
Dorothy accepts the tag.
Across the ring, Bellona reaches toward Athena.
The challengers make their own substitution.
Minute 12
Dorothy enters and immediately approaches Athena.
The goddess waits until the champion closes the distance.
Then she explodes forward.
THE HUNTRESS SPEAR!
Athena drives her shoulder directly into Dorothy's midsection, sending the champion crashing onto her back.
The crowd reacts as Dorothy rolls onto her side.
Athena rises and looks toward her corner.
Zeus watches approvingly from ringside.
Julian Ward: "The Huntress Spear connects! Athena has caught Dorothy before the champion could establish any momentum."
Brick Brody: "That's what you get when you walk straight into a goddess who's waiting for you. Dorothy didn't see that coming, and Athena just drove the air right out of her."
Dorothy attempts to rise.
Athena moves forward to continue the attack.
Minute 13
Athena reaches down to pull Dorothy upright.
The champion catches her opponent's arm and forces herself back to her feet.
Before the goddess can regain control, Dorothy twists her body and delivers a powerful ONE-ARMED NECKBREAKER SLAM!
Athena crashes into the canvas.
The crowd cheers as Dorothy rises.
The champion briefly clutches her midsection before moving toward her fallen opponent.
Julian Ward: "Dorothy answers the Huntress Spear with a one-armed neckbreaker slam! The champion has managed to turn the exchange in her favour."
Brick Brody: "That's a tough woman right there. Athena nearly cut her in half with that spear, and Dorothy still found enough strength to put her down."
Athena rolls onto her side and begins to rise.
Dorothy waits for her opponent to return to her feet.
Minute 14
Athena advances and catches Dorothy around the waist.
The goddess attempts to lift the champion for another GODDESS BOMB.
But Dorothy recognizes the danger.
She shifts her weight and breaks free before Athena can complete the lift.
The champion catches the goddess by the arm and pulls her forward.
ONE-ARMED NECKBREAKER SLAM!
Athena crashes onto her back.
The crowd erupts as Dorothy rises.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous counter! Athena attempted another Goddess Bomb, but Dorothy anticipated the maneuver and answered with a second one-armed neckbreaker slam."
Brick Brody: "Now that's a counter! Athena thought she had her, and Dorothy turned the whole thing around. The goddess had better stop giving her that arm."
Dorothy watches as Athena struggles to recover.
The champion approaches again.
Minute 15
Athena manages to rise before Dorothy can secure another hold.
The goddess slips behind the champion and immediately locks in the GORGON CLUTCH.
She drives her knee into Dorothy's back and pulls her chin upward.
The champion struggles against the pressure.
Athena tightens the hold, forcing Dorothy to bend backward.
Julian Ward: "Athena has secured the Gorgon Clutch again! Dorothy's neck and back have already absorbed significant punishment, and this hold is forcing the champion to defend herself rather than continue her offense."
Brick Brody: "Athena's doing exactly what she should. Dorothy keeps catching her with that neckbreaker, so the goddess is making sure she can't get her hands free to do it again."
Dorothy plants her feet and attempts to turn her body.
Athena maintains the hold for several seconds.
The champion finally manages to force enough separation to break free.
She staggers forward, clutching her neck.
Minute 16
Athena approaches the recovering champion.
Dorothy turns and catches the goddess by the arm.
Before Athena can establish another hold, the champion twists her body and delivers a third ONE-ARMED NECKBREAKER SLAM!
The goddess crashes into the canvas.
The crowd erupts.
Dorothy rises slowly, still favouring her neck.
Julian Ward: "Another one-armed neckbreaker slam! Dorothy has repeatedly found success with that maneuver, and Athena is beginning to show the effects of the accumulated punishment."
Brick Brody: "That's three times she's caught Athena with it! The goddess has got to change her approach, because Dorothy's got an answer every time she gets close enough."
Dorothy steps forward as Athena attempts to rise.
The challenger retreats toward her corner.
Bellona extends her hand.
Minute 17
Athena catches Dorothy before the champion can continue her attack.
The goddess forces her backward toward the War Council's corner.
Bellona steps through the ropes.
Athena drives her shoulder into Dorothy's midsection with a SHIELD BASH, forcing the champion against the turnbuckles.
Before Dorothy can escape, Bellona catches her and lifts her into position.
ALABAMA SLAM!
The champion crashes into the canvas.
The crowd reacts as Dorothy rolls onto her side.
Julian Ward: "A devastating coordinated attack from the War Council! Athena's Shield Bash followed by Bellona's Alabama Slam has left Dorothy in serious difficulty."
Brick Brody: "That's how you stop somebody who's been giving you trouble. Athena drives her into the corner, Bellona picks her up, and suddenly Dorothy's the one wondering what happened."
'Honest' Abe orders Bellona back to the apron.
Athena remains in the ring and approaches the fallen champion.
Dorothy struggles toward the ropes.
Minute 18
Athena reaches down to pull Dorothy upright.
The champion forces herself to her feet and creates enough separation to deliver a sharp strike across the goddess's upper body.
Dorothy steps backward, allowing Athena to advance.
As the challenger closes the distance, the champion catches her with the EMERALD CITY ELBOW!
The blow forces Athena backward.
Dorothy remains standing, although the accumulated punishment has visibly slowed her movements.
Julian Ward: "The Emerald City Elbow connects! Dorothy has created an opening after that punishing double-team attack."
Brick Brody: "She's still got some fight left in her, Julian. Athena thought she had her worn down, and Dorothy just reminded her that this match isn't over."
Dorothy turns toward her corner.
Alice extends her hand.
The champions make the tag.
Minute 19
Alice enters and moves toward Athena.
The two women circle cautiously, each searching for an opening.
Athena attempts to establish a defensive position, forcing Alice to reconsider her approach.
The champion briefly retreats before stepping forward again.
Athena reaches for her opponent, but Alice catches the goddess by the arm.
She turns her body and delivers an OVER-THE-SHOULDER ARMDRAG!
Athena crashes onto the canvas.
Alice rises and immediately moves toward her opponent.
Julian Ward: "Alice has brought Athena down with the over-the-shoulder armdrag. Both women are showing the effects of this increasingly physical championship contest."
Brick Brody: "You can see the pace starting to slow, Julian. They're both looking for an opening, and neither wants to make the mistake that costs her team the titles."
Athena rises and approaches the champion once more.
Minute 20
Alice catches Athena by the arm and twists it into a KEYLOCK.
The goddess struggles against the pressure.
She plants her feet and forces the champion backward.
Athena manages to slip behind her opponent and immediately secures the GORGON CLUTCH.
The goddess drives her knee into Alice's back and pulls her chin upward.
Alice reaches toward the ropes.
She twists her body and manages to break the grip before Athena can establish complete control.
The champion retreats toward her corner.
Dorothy extends her hand.
The tag is made.
Julian Ward: "Another exchange of submission holds, and Alice has wisely brought Dorothy back into the contest. Both teams have endured considerable punishment, but neither has been able to secure a decisive advantage."
Brick Brody: "The champions are using those tags to keep themselves moving. Athena's trying to slow Alice down, but every time she gets a hold of her, Alice finds a way back to Dorothy."
Minute 21
Dorothy steps through the ropes and immediately approaches Athena.
The goddess attempts to intercept her, but the champion forces her backward.
Dorothy drives a powerful EMERALD CITY ELBOW into her opponent's upper body.
Athena staggers.
Alice enters the ring and follows with a sharp FOREARM SMASH!
The combined attack forces Athena onto the canvas.
The crowd erupts.
Julian Ward: "The Blonde Bombshells working together! The Emerald City Elbow followed by Alice's forearm smash has brought Athena down!"
Brick Brody: "That's what the champions needed! They've been taking punishment from the War Council all match, and now they're giving some of it back."
'Honest' Abe orders Alice to return to the apron.
The champion complies.
Dorothy remains in the ring, watching Athena struggle to recover.
Minute 22
Athena rises and immediately advances toward Dorothy.
The goddess catches the champion and drives her backward into the corner.
She lowers her shoulder and delivers a powerful SHIELD BASH into Dorothy's midsection.
The champion doubles over.
Athena steps backward before driving her shoulder forward once again, keeping Dorothy trapped against the turnbuckles.
Julian Ward: "Athena has answered the Blonde Bombshells' coordinated attack with another Shield Bash. Dorothy has absorbed tremendous punishment throughout this match."
Brick Brody: "And Athena knows exactly where to hit her. Dorothy's been taking shots to the body and back all night. Keep hammering those same places, and eventually something gives."
Dorothy manages to create enough separation to escape the corner.
She stumbles toward her partner.
Alice reaches forward.
The champions make the tag.
Minute 23
Alice steps through the ropes as Athena advances.
The champion attempts to move around the goddess, but Athena catches her and drives her backward toward the corner.
SHIELD BASH!
The shoulder thrust connects with Alice's midsection.
The champion doubles over.
Athena steps backward, preparing to continue the attack.
But Alice suddenly moves.
She slips past the challenger and creates enough distance to reach the turnbuckles.
Athena turns toward her.
Alice climbs to the top rope.
The crowd begins to rise.
Julian Ward: "Alice has created an opening! She's climbing to the top rope!"
Brick Brody: "Athena had her hurt, but she let Alice get away from her! That could be a costly mistake!"
Alice balances herself on the top turnbuckle.
Athena remains on the canvas, unable to intercept the champion before she launches herself into the air.
WONDERLAND'S END MOONSAULT!
Alice crashes down across Athena!
The crowd erupts as the champion hooks the leg.
'Honest' Abe drops into position.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
DING! DING! DING!
The Coliseum erupts as Alice releases the cover and rolls onto her back.
Dorothy immediately enters the ring and moves toward her partner.
Across the ring, Bellona steps through the ropes, but the referee raises his arm and signals that the contest is over.
Zeus stands at ringside, staring toward the fallen Athena.
The Olympian's expression darkens as Bellona kneels beside her partner.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, here are your winners... AND STILL NPCW NORTH STAR TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS... ALICE AND DOROTHY... THE BLONDE BOMBSHELLS!"
'Honest' Abe retrieves the championship belts and presents them to the victorious team.
Dorothy helps Alice to her feet.
The two women embrace briefly before raising their championships above their heads.
The crowd responds with another enormous cheer.
Julian Ward: "The Blonde Bombshells have retained the North Star Tag Team Championship! Alice and Dorothy have survived an extraordinary challenge from the War Council, and Alice's Wonderland's End Moonsault has secured the victory."
Brick Brody: "That was a fight, Julian. Athena and Bellona brought everything they had, and Zeus watched his warriors come within reach of those championships. But Alice found one opening, got herself to the top rope, and finished the job. You can't give her that kind of opportunity and expect to walk away with the gold."
At ringside, Zeus enters the ring and approaches his fallen warriors.
Athena has managed to sit upright, her expression filled with frustration.
Bellona stands beside her.
The Olympian looks toward the celebrating champions.
He says nothing.
He simply places a hand on Athena's shoulder before turning toward the entrance ramp.
The War Council begins to withdraw.
Inside the ring, Alice and Dorothy stand together, raising their championship belts toward the crowd.
Julian Ward: "The War Council leaves Age of Ruin without the North Star Tag Team Championship, while the Blonde Bombshells continue their reign after another difficult defence. Both teams demonstrated remarkable resilience, but the champions' ability to seize the decisive opening has once again made the difference. With the North Star titles remaining in their possession, Alice and Dorothy continue to establish their place among the leading teams in the Mythic Division."
RESULT: THE BLONDE BOMBSHELLS (ALICE & DOROTHY) DEFEAT WAR COUNCIL (ATHENA & BELLONA) BY PINFALL IN THE 23RD MINUTE AFTER ALICE DELIVERS WONDERLAND'S END MOONSAULT TO ATHENA, RETAINING THE NPCW NORTH STAR TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP.
Referee: 'Honest' Abe
The cameras return to Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum.
The arena lights dim, and the sound of a deep ceremonial drum echoes throughout the building.
On the entrance screens, a blood-red moon rises above the silhouette of an ancient Japanese temple.
A dragon emerges from the darkness.
Its flames illuminate the image of a demonic wolf.
The two creatures circle one another before the screen fades to black.
Julian Ward: "Ladies and gentlemen, we now come to one of the most consequential contests of Age of Ruin. A confrontation between two men whose shared history has been torn apart by betrayal, ancient obligations, and the intervention of forces that have sought to determine their futures."
Brick Brody: "And this isn't some ordinary grudge match, Julian. These two have put something on the line that goes way beyond a championship belt. One man's bloodline and the other man's allegiance to the darkness. Whoever loses tonight is going to have to live with the consequences."
Julian Ward: "The conditions of the Dojo of the Blood Oni Trials Match are extraordinary. Should Raigen lose, he will become indebted to the Blood Oni for the next one hundred years. That obligation will extend to his bloodline, binding his descendants to the same debt."
"Should Taro Okami lose, he must submit himself to the House of the Dragon's Veil and undergo a cleansing intended to break the influence that has drawn him away from his former allies."
Brick Brody: "And that's what makes this so dangerous. Raigen isn't just fighting for himself. He's fighting for people who haven't even been born yet. And Taro's fighting to keep hold of whatever he's become."
Julian Ward: "Two men who once stood together now find themselves on opposite sides of a conflict that has reached into the darkest traditions of their shared homeland."
"Tonight, one of them must answer for the decision he has made."
The arena falls into darkness.
A low, distorted Japanese flute begins to play.
The entrance screens illuminate with an enormous crimson moon.
Beneath it stands the silhouette of a wolf.
A guttural growl echoes through the Coliseum.
Taro Okami emerges onto the entrance stage.
His new demon-wolf-inspired attire reflects the transformation that has accompanied his return to the Blood Oni's influence.
Dark armour, crimson detailing, and the terrifying imagery of the demonic wolf have replaced the appearance once associated with his partnership with Raigen.
Behind him appears Lord Kurogami.
The leader of the Blood Oni walks slowly onto the stage, his expression calm and unreadable.
Taro pauses beneath the entrance lights.
He lowers his head briefly before looking toward the ring.
Lord Kurogami places a hand upon his shoulder.
The two exchange a brief glance.
Then Taro begins his approach.
Julian Ward: "Taro Okami has embraced an identity that would have been almost unrecognizable to those who once stood beside him. The man who shared Raigen's battles now represents the very darkness that his former ally has spent so long attempting to resist."
Brick Brody: "Maybe that's because Taro finally figured out where he belongs. Raigen keeps trying to save him, but what if Taro doesn't want to be saved? What if this is exactly who he wants to be?"
Julian Ward: "That is a question which may receive its answer tonight. The stipulation requires Taro to undergo the cleansing if he is defeated, but whether that can restore the man Raigen once knew remains uncertain."
Taro enters the ring.
He moves toward the centre and slowly turns to face the entrance.
Lord Kurogami takes his position at ringside.
He folds his arms and waits.
The crimson lighting fades.
A single blue flame appears upon the entrance screens.
The flame spreads, revealing the image of an ancient dragon.
The Dragon's Veil emblem emerges within the fire.
The crowd rises as Raigen steps onto the entrance stage.
His battle-scarred face is illuminated by the blue flames, the evidence of the fireball attack that changed his appearance remaining visible.
He wears his established Dragon's Veil-inspired wrestling attire.
There is no theatrical celebration.
No acknowledgment of the cheering crowd.
Raigen stands motionless, looking directly toward the ring.
Taro Okami meets his gaze.
Julian Ward: "Raigen has pursued this confrontation knowing that defeat would place an obligation upon his bloodline for the next century. He has nevertheless accepted those conditions because he believes that Taro Okami can still be reclaimed from the Blood Oni."
Brick Brody: "That's an enormous gamble, Julian. He's betting a hundred years of his family's future on the idea that he can beat the man who betrayed him. If he's wrong, his children and their children are going to be paying for it."
Raigen begins walking toward the ring.
As he approaches ringside, he stops briefly.
His eyes move toward Lord Kurogami.
The Blood Oni leader offers a faint smile.
Raigen says nothing.
He turns away and enters the ring.
Taro steps forward.
The two former allies stand several feet apart, their eyes fixed upon one another.
'Honest' Abe moves between them.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is the DOJO OF THE BLOOD ONI TRIALS MATCH, scheduled for one fall!"
The crowd cheers.
Louie Linville: "The conditions of this contest are as follows!"
"Should Raigen be defeated, he shall become indebted to the Blood Oni for the next ONE HUNDRED YEARS, with that obligation extending to his bloodline and future descendants!"
A wave of boos echoes throughout the arena.
Louie Linville: "Should Taro Okami be defeated, he must submit himself to the House of the Dragon's Veil and undergo the ceremonial cleansing!"
Lord Kurogami watches without reaction.
Louie Linville: "Introducing first, representing the Blood Oni... TARO OKAMI!"
Taro slowly raises his head, his expression cold.
Louie Linville: "And his opponent! Representing the Dragon's Veil... RAIGEN!"
The crowd erupts as Raigen steps forward.
'Honest' Abe calls both competitors toward the centre of the ring.
He delivers his final instructions.
Neither man looks away from the other.
The referee signals for the bell.
DING! DING! DING!
Minute 1
Raigen advances immediately, refusing to surrender the opening exchange.
Taro Okami lowers his centre of gravity and prepares to intercept him.
The two men engage in a brief grappling exchange.
Raigen catches his former ally by the arm, shifts his weight, and pulls him toward the canvas.
He secures the SACRED MAT CRADLE, trapping Taro's shoulders and restricting his movement.
Taro struggles against the hold, attempting to force his way free.
Raigen maintains control before releasing the cradle and rising.
Taro rolls onto his side and looks toward his opponent.
Julian Ward: "Raigen opens with the Sacred Mat Cradle, a technique rooted in the very traditions these two men once shared. He has immediately attempted to establish control through technical wrestling rather than engage Taro in an exchange of strikes."
Brick Brody: "And there's a reason for that. Raigen knows this man. He knows how dangerous Taro can be when he starts throwing those heavy shots. Keep him on the mat, make him work, and don't give him room to build momentum."
Minute 2
Taro Okami rises cautiously.
He steps toward Raigen, attempting to secure a grip around his upper body.
Raigen slips beneath the reaching arm and catches his former partner around the waist.
The two men struggle for position.
Taro attempts to widen his stance, but Raigen uses his leverage to force him backward and bring him to the canvas.
Another SACRED MAT CRADLE!
Raigen tightens the hold, maintaining control as Taro attempts to roll onto his side.
The Blood Oni representative eventually breaks free and retreats toward the ropes.
Raigen rises and watches him.
Julian Ward: "A second Sacred Mat Cradle. Raigen is forcing Taro Okami to defend against techniques that both men understand intimately, and the former allies are already demonstrating the depth of their shared training."
Brick Brody: "Taro's getting outwrestled right now. He knows what Raigen wants to do, but knowing it's coming and stopping it are two different things."
Minute 3
Raigen steps forward as Taro returns to his feet.
The two men lock up near the centre of the ring.
Taro attempts to establish a grip around his opponent's shoulders.
Raigen turns beneath his arm and moves behind him.
He secures Taro around the waist, plants his feet, and lifts him into the CRIMSON BRIDGE SUPLEX!
Taro crashes onto his upper back.
Raigen maintains the bridge momentarily before releasing his opponent.
The crowd cheers as he rises.
At ringside, Lord Kurogami watches without moving.
Julian Ward: "A beautifully executed Crimson Bridge Suplex. Raigen has maintained control through the opening three minutes, but Taro Okami possesses a formidable arsenal of his own."
Brick Brody: "Raigen's getting the better of him on the mat, but he can't afford to get comfortable. Taro's been taking punishment without giving much back, and sooner or later that's going to change."
Minute 4
Taro Okami rises and advances with renewed aggression.
Raigen attempts to intercept him and secures another grip around his waist.
The CRIMSON BRIDGE SUPLEX connects again!
But this time, Taro recovers quickly enough to prevent Raigen from establishing further control.
As Raigen moves forward, Taro suddenly catches him with the BLOOD SHRINE AMBUSH!
The explosive attack drives Raigen backward and sends him crashing onto the canvas.
The crowd reacts as Taro rises.
He looks down at his former partner before turning briefly toward Lord Kurogami.
Julian Ward: "A sudden change in momentum! Raigen connects with another Crimson Bridge Suplex, but Taro answers with the Blood Shrine Ambush!"
Brick Brody: "There it is! Raigen's been controlling the match, but Taro just reminded him that this isn't a training session. One opening, one hard shot, and suddenly Raigen's the man lying on his back."
Minute 5
Raigen attempts to rise.
Taro Okami closes the distance before his opponent can regain control.
He catches Raigen around the upper body and drives him into the canvas with the BLOOD MOON DRIVER!
The impact leaves Raigen clutching his neck and shoulders.
Taro rises and remains close to his opponent, preventing him from creating distance.
Raigen attempts to establish a defensive grip, but Taro forces him backward.
Julian Ward: "The Blood Moon Driver connects! Taro Okami has seized control of this contest, and Raigen has been unable to answer the challenger's sudden change in aggression."
Brick Brody: "That's two big shots in a row. Taro's got him hurt, and now he's making sure Raigen doesn't get a chance to reset. That's what he should've been doing from the start."
Minute 6
Taro Okami continues his assault.
He forces Raigen toward the centre of the ring and unleashes the BROKEN GUARD BARRAGE!
A rapid succession of strikes forces Raigen backward.
He attempts to cover his upper body, but Taro continues pressing forward.
Another strike catches Raigen and sends him stumbling toward the ropes.
Taro advances without hesitation.
Raigen manages to remain standing but cannot establish an effective counterattack.
Julian Ward: "Taro is now dictating the pace. The Broken Guard Barrage has forced Raigen into a defensive position, and the sustained nature of this assault is preventing him from returning to the technical approach that served him so well earlier."
Brick Brody: "Taro's not giving him any room. Every time Raigen tries to get his hands up, another shot comes through. That's how you break somebody's rhythm."
Minute 7
Raigen moves away from the ropes and attempts to reestablish his footing.
Taro Okami approaches cautiously, expecting another grappling exchange.
Raigen steps forward, searching for an opening.
But the punishment from the preceding minutes has disrupted his timing.
He attempts to secure his opponent, only for Taro to shift his weight and prevent Raigen from establishing a decisive hold.
The two men separate.
Raigen takes a moment to steady himself.
Taro watches him carefully, refusing to commit to an attack that might expose him to another suplex.
Julian Ward: "Raigen attempting to regain control, but the sustained offense from Taro Okami has clearly disrupted his momentum. Both men understand the danger of committing too aggressively against an opponent who knows their techniques."
Brick Brody: "Raigen's trying to get himself back into this, but Taro isn't giving him the opening he wants. He's making him work for every inch."
Minute 8
Raigen advances again.
This time, he moves inside Taro's reach and unleashes the CENTERLINE STRIKE COMBINATION!
A rapid series of precise strikes drives Taro backward.
Raigen attempts to continue the assault, but his former partner catches his advancing arm.
Taro shifts his weight and pulls Raigen toward the canvas.
The SACRED MAT CRADLE!
The crowd reacts as Taro uses the very technique that Raigen employed during the opening minutes.
Raigen struggles against the hold before breaking free.
Both men return to their feet.
Julian Ward: "Raigen connects with the Centerline Strike Combination, but Taro answers with the Sacred Mat Cradle! These men know one another's techniques exceptionally well, and neither has been able to maintain a prolonged advantage."
Brick Brody: "That's what happens when you've trained together. Raigen knows how Taro moves, and Taro knows exactly what Raigen's going to try next. Every time one of them finds an opening, the other has an answer."
Minute 9
Taro Okami attempts to advance and secure another hold.
Raigen anticipates the movement.
He shifts his stance and catches Taro's advancing leg.
With a sharp turn of his body, Raigen executes the DRAGON SWEEP COUNTER!
Taro is taken off his feet and driven onto the canvas.
The crowd cheers as Raigen rises.
He immediately moves toward his opponent, attempting to prevent him from recovering.
Julian Ward: "The Dragon Sweep Counter! Raigen has anticipated Taro's approach and brought him down with a precise counterattack."
Brick Brody: "That's good wrestling. Taro came forward expecting to take control, and Raigen took his legs out from under him. Now he's got to make something out of it."
Minute 10
Both men return to their feet near the centre of the ring.
Raigen circles cautiously, searching for an opportunity to move behind his opponent.
Taro Okami mirrors his movements.
Raigen suddenly steps forward, attempting to secure the BLOOD OATH SLEEPER.
But Taro recognizes the approach.
He turns his body and attempts to catch Raigen in the BLOOD KNOT CHOKE.
The two men struggle for control.
Raigen breaks the initial grip before Taro can tighten the choke.
Taro immediately prevents his former partner from securing the sleeper.
The two men separate.
Neither has successfully established the hold.
Julian Ward: "An extraordinary exchange of submission attempts. Raigen sought the Blood Oath Sleeper, but Taro anticipated the attack and attempted the Blood Knot Choke. Neither man could complete the maneuver."
Brick Brody: "They both know what happens if one of those holds gets locked in. That's why neither man's giving the other a clean grip."
Minute 11
Raigen attempts to close the distance again.
He catches Taro Okami around the upper body and begins positioning him for the BLOOD MOON DRIVER.
Taro immediately widens his stance.
He prevents Raigen from completing the lift and forces himself free.
The Blood Oni representative attempts to pull Raigen into another SACRED MAT CRADLE.
But Raigen recognizes the maneuver.
He shifts his weight and breaks free before Taro can bring him to the canvas.
The two men retreat several steps.
Raigen studies his former partner.
Taro lowers his stance, preparing for the next exchange.
Julian Ward: "Both men attempt techniques from their shared arsenal, and both are successfully countered. The familiarity between Raigen and Taro Okami is making this an increasingly difficult contest for either competitor to control."
Brick Brody: "They've spent years learning the same techniques. You can't just reach in and expect the other man to let you finish the move. Somebody's going to have to find a way to surprise the other."
Minute 12
Taro Okami advances, attempting to force Raigen backward.
Raigen suddenly steps inside his opponent's reach and launches into the BROKEN GUARD BARRAGE!
A rapid succession of strikes catches Taro across the upper body.
The Blood Oni representative attempts to establish a defensive position, but Raigen continues pressing forward.
Another strike forces Taro backward.
The crowd rises as Raigen maintains the assault.
Taro finally creates enough distance to escape the immediate pressure.
Julian Ward: "Raigen has answered Taro's earlier Broken Guard Barrage with one of his own! He has forced his former ally into retreat and is beginning to recover the momentum he lost during the opening portion of this contest."
Brick Brody: "Now that's what I wanted to see from Raigen. Stop waiting for Taro to make the first move. Get inside, throw those shots, and make him defend himself."
Minute 13
Raigen advances once more.
He unleashes another CENTERLINE STRIKE COMBINATION, forcing Taro Okami backward.
Taro absorbs the strikes before suddenly catching his opponent around the waist.
He shifts his position and lifts Raigen into the CRIMSON BRIDGE SUPLEX!
The crowd reacts as Raigen crashes onto his upper back.
Taro maintains the bridge!
'Honest' Abe drops into position.
ONE!
TWO!
Raigen kicks out!
The crowd erupts as Taro releases the hold.
Julian Ward: "Taro Okami has connected with the Crimson Bridge Suplex! He nearly secured the victory with a technique that Raigen himself used to control the opening minutes!"
Brick Brody: "That's how close this is getting, Julian. One mistake and this thing could be over. Raigen nearly lost a hundred years of his family's future right there."
Taro rises slowly.
He looks toward Lord Kurogami, who watches from ringside with his arms folded.
Raigen rolls onto his side and begins pulling himself upright.
Minute 14
Taro Okami moves forward, attempting to maintain his advantage.
He drives a strike into Raigen's midsection and follows with the TATAMI RIB BREAKER!
Raigen recoils from the impact.
But before Taro can establish further control, Raigen catches him around the waist.
With a tremendous effort, he lifts his former partner and delivers the SHRINE GATE POWERBOMB!
Taro crashes into the canvas!
The crowd erupts as Raigen releases the hold.
Both men remain down briefly.
Julian Ward: "The Shrine Gate Powerbomb! Raigen has answered Taro's attack with one of the most devastating techniques we have seen in this contest!"
Brick Brody: "That was a hell of a counterattack! Taro went after the ribs, and Raigen picked him up and drove him straight into the mat. Both men are starting to feel what this match is costing them."
Raigen rises first.
He looks down at Taro, who slowly rolls toward the ropes.
Minute 15
Taro Okami struggles back to his feet.
Raigen advances and catches him around the upper body.
The two men exchange brief strikes as Taro attempts to create separation.
Taro suddenly connects with the TEMPLE-STEP ENZUIGIRI!
The kick catches Raigen, forcing him backward.
But the Dragon's Veil representative manages to remain close enough to seize his opponent.
Raigen pulls Taro into position and delivers the DOJO FLOOR DRIVER!
The crowd erupts as Taro crashes into the canvas.
Raigen immediately moves into the cover.
'Honest' Abe drops into position.
ONE!
Taro Okami kicks out!
Raigen releases the cover and rises to his knees.
Julian Ward: "The Dojo Floor Driver connects, but Taro Okami escapes the pin attempt! Raigen has found another opening, yet his former ally continues to survive."
Brick Brody: "That was a hard landing, Julian. Taro got caught clean, but he still had enough left to kick out. Raigen can't let that frustration get to him."
Raigen looks toward Taro.
His expression hardens.
He rises and approaches his former partner once more.
Minute 16
Raigen forces Taro Okami backward.
He drives him toward the corner and delivers the DOJO WALL CRUSH!
The impact leaves Taro struggling to maintain his footing.
Raigen steps forward, attempting to capitalize on the damage.
But Taro suddenly catches him.
The Blood Oni representative shifts his weight and pulls Raigen into the SACRED MAT CRADLE!
'Honest' Abe drops into position.
ONE!
TWO!
Raigen kicks out!
The crowd erupts as both men scramble to separate.
Julian Ward: "Another near fall! Taro Okami has once again used the Sacred Mat Cradle to turn Raigen's offensive momentum against him!"
Brick Brody: "That's the danger of rushing in against somebody who knows your wrestling as well as Taro does. Raigen thought he had him hurt, and suddenly he's the one fighting to get his shoulders off the mat."
Raigen rises near the ropes.
Taro pulls himself upright on the opposite side of the ring.
The two former allies stare at one another.
Neither retreats.
Minute 17
Raigen advances and attempts another BROKEN GUARD BARRAGE.
Taro Okami anticipates the opening strike.
He catches Raigen's arm and turns his body, breaking the rhythm of the combination.
Raigen attempts to recover, but Taro moves forward to capitalize on the counter.
The two men struggle for position.
Taro attempts to establish an offensive grip, but Raigen recognizes the danger and forces his way free.
He moves behind his former partner.
CRIMSON BRIDGE SUPLEX!
Taro crashes onto his upper back!
The crowd erupts as Raigen maintains control before releasing the bridge.
Julian Ward: "Raigen has countered Taro's counter! The Crimson Bridge Suplex connects again, and Taro Okami has been driven into the canvas!"
Brick Brody: "That's what happens when two men know each other this well. Taro stopped the barrage, but Raigen had another answer waiting. Neither one can afford to make a single mistake now."
Taro rolls onto his side.
Raigen rises slowly, watching his former partner struggle to recover.
Minute 18
Both men return to their feet.
For several seconds, neither advances.
Raigen shifts his stance.
Taro Okami mirrors the movement.
The two men begin circling, each searching for an opening.
Raigen attempts to move inside his opponent's reach.
Taro forces him backward.
The Blood Oni representative then advances, but Raigen changes direction and catches him before he can establish an offensive grip.
Raigen unleashes the BROKEN GUARD BARRAGE!
The strikes connect in rapid succession.
Taro attempts to protect his upper body, but Raigen continues pressing forward.
The final strike forces Taro backward toward the ropes.
Julian Ward: "Raigen has connected with another Broken Guard Barrage! He is forcing Taro Okami to defend against a sustained assault, and the Blood Oni representative is struggling to establish a response."
Brick Brody: "Now Raigen's got him where he wants him. Taro's been taking those shots, and he's not throwing anything back. If Raigen's going to finish this, he'd better do it before the man gets another chance to recover."
Raigen steps forward.
Taro raises his head.
The two men lock eyes.
Minute 19
Taro Okami suddenly advances.
He catches Raigen's arm and attempts to pull him into the EIGHTFOLD ARMBAR.
Raigen immediately recognizes the maneuver.
He turns his body and prevents Taro from securing the submission.
The two men struggle for control.
Raigen manages to break free and attempts to lift his opponent for the BLOOD MOON DRIVER.
But Taro shifts his weight and prevents the lift.
The two men separate.
Both remain standing near the centre of the ring.
Julian Ward: "Taro attempts the Eightfold Armbar, but Raigen escapes before the hold can be completed. Raigen answers with an attempted Blood Moon Driver, and Taro prevents that maneuver as well."
Brick Brody: "They're running out of surprises, Julian. Every time one of them reaches for a hold, the other knows exactly how to get out of it. Somebody's going to have to find one last opening."
Raigen takes a step backward, his breathing heavy.
Taro watches him carefully.
At ringside, Lord Kurogami remains motionless.
The crowd begins to rise as the two former allies prepare for another exchange.
Minute 20
Taro Okami advances first.
He unleashes the CENTERLINE STRIKE COMBINATION, driving a series of precise strikes into Raigen's upper body.
Raigen staggers backward.
Taro attempts to maintain the assault, but his former partner manages to establish his footing.
Raigen catches the advancing arm.
He turns his body and slips behind Taro, securing a grip around his waist.
The crowd rises.
Julian Ward: "Raigen has him! He's secured the waist!"
Brick Brody: "Taro had better get out of there!"
Taro attempts to widen his stance.
But Raigen has already established his grip.
With one final, tremendous effort, he lifts his former partner.
CRIMSON BRIDGE SUPLEX!
Taro Okami crashes onto his upper back!
Raigen maintains the bridge, keeping his opponent's shoulders pressed against the canvas.
'Honest' Abe drops into position.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
DING! DING! DING!
The Coliseum erupts!
Raigen releases the bridge and collapses onto the canvas.
Taro Okami rolls onto his side, clutching the back of his neck.
At ringside, Lord Kurogami remains standing.
He watches the result without moving.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, here is your winner of the DOJO OF THE BLOOD ONI TRIALS MATCH... RAIGEN!"
The crowd erupts again.
Raigen slowly rises to his knees.
He looks toward Taro, who remains on the canvas.
The victory has been secured.
And with it, the conditions of the Trials Match must now be enforced.
Julian Ward: "Raigen has done it! He has defeated Taro Okami with the Crimson Bridge Suplex, and in doing so, he has protected himself and his future descendants from the one-hundred-year obligation to the Blood Oni."
Brick Brody: "That was one hell of a fight, Julian. Taro nearly had him beaten more than once, but Raigen found that final opening and put him down. Now Taro's got to pay the price for losing."
Julian Ward: "The victory ensures that Raigen's bloodline remains free of the obligation he placed at stake tonight. But the result also carries an equally significant consequence for his former partner. Under the conditions agreed to before this match, Taro Okami must now submit himself to the House of the Dragon's Veil and undergo the cleansing."
RESULT: RAIGEN DEFEATS TARO OKAMI BY PINFALL IN THE 20TH MINUTE AFTER THE CRIMSON BRIDGE SUPLEX, WINNING THE DOJO OF THE BLOOD ONI TRIALS MATCH. TARO OKAMI MUST SUBMIT HIMSELF TO THE HOUSE OF THE DRAGON'S VEIL FOR CLEANSING.
POST-MATCH – THE COLLECTION
Raigen remains on his knees near the centre of the ring.
Across from him, Taro Okami slowly pulls himself upright.
The two former allies look at one another.
For several seconds, neither speaks.
Then the arena lights begin to shift.
A low ceremonial bell echoes throughout Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum.
The entrance screens illuminate with the emblem of the Dragon's Veil.
The crowd turns toward the entrance stage.
Lady Ayame Ryu emerges from the darkness.
Her expression is solemn.
Beside her walks Takuma Ryujin, followed by the Scalekeepers, the guardians of the Dragon's Veil.
The group pauses at the top of the entrance ramp.
Julian Ward: "The House of the Dragon's Veil has arrived. Lady Ayame Ryu, Takuma Ryujin, and the Scalekeepers are here to enforce the conditions of the Trials Match."
Brick Brody: "The match is over, Julian. Taro agreed to the stipulation, and now they've come to collect him. He knew what was at stake when he stepped into that ring."
Lady Ayame Ryu begins walking toward ringside.
Takuma Ryujin follows closely, while the Scalekeepers maintain their formation behind them.
Inside the ring, Taro Okami watches their approach.
He slowly pulls himself to his feet.
Raigen rises on the opposite side of the ring, watching his former partner carefully.
Lady Ayame Ryu reaches ringside.
She climbs the ring steps and enters through the ropes.
Takuma Ryujin follows her.
The Scalekeepers remain positioned near the entrance ramp and ringside.
Lady Ayame Ryu approaches Taro.
Lady Ayame Ryu: "Taro Okami."
"The Trials have concluded."
"You entered this contest of your own will. You accepted its conditions. And the result has been decided."
She pauses.
Lady Ayame Ryu: "The House of the Dragon's Veil has come to receive you."
Taro looks toward Takuma Ryujin.
The Dragon's Veil warrior stands beside Lady Ayame, his expression serious.
Takuma Ryujin: "The sanctuary is waiting, Taro."
Taro says nothing.
He looks toward Raigen.
For a brief moment, the two former partners meet one another's gaze.
Raigen takes a step forward.
Raigen: "You gave your word."
Taro lowers his head.
Then he turns away.
His attention moves toward the man standing at ringside.
Lord Kurogami.
The Blood Oni leader remains in the same position he occupied throughout the match.
His arms are folded.
His expression is calm.
Taro approaches the ropes.
Taro Okami: "My lord..."
Lord Kurogami looks directly at him.
A faint smile crosses his face.
Then he nods.
Once.
Taro remains motionless for a moment.
He looks toward the Dragon's Veil representatives.
Then he lowers his head in acknowledgment.
Taro Okami: "I understand."
He turns toward Lady Ayame Ryu.
Taro Okami: "I will honour the agreement."
Lady Ayame Ryu acknowledges his response with a slight bow of her head.
Lady Ayame Ryu: "Then come."
Takuma Ryujin steps toward the ropes and holds them open.
Taro Okami looks once more toward Raigen.
Neither man speaks.
Then Taro steps through the ropes and descends to ringside.
Lady Ayame Ryu and Takuma Ryujin follow him.
The Scalekeepers form a protective escort around the group as they begin walking toward the entrance ramp.
Julian Ward: "Taro Okami has accepted the result. He will accompany the Dragon's Veil to their sanctuary, where the cleansing stipulated in tonight's match will take place."
Brick Brody: "And look at him, Julian. He's not exactly celebrating. That man knows what he agreed to, and now he's got to find out what the Dragon's Veil intends to do with him."
The cameras follow Taro as he walks between the Scalekeepers.
He does not look back.
Lady Ayame Ryu leads the procession toward the entrance.
Takuma Ryujin remains beside his former ally.
The group disappears behind the entrance curtain.
Inside the ring, Raigen watches until they are gone.
Then he turns toward ringside.
Lord Kurogami has not moved.
The Blood Oni leader looks directly at Raigen.
And smiles.
It is not the expression of a man whose plans have been ruined.
There is no frustration.
No anger.
No visible disappointment at the loss of Taro Okami.
Raigen steps toward the ropes.
His expression darkens.
Julian Ward: "Raigen has secured the victory he came here to achieve. Taro Okami will undergo the cleansing, and the obligation to the Blood Oni has been avoided. But Lord Kurogami's reaction is difficult to understand."
Brick Brody: "I'll tell you what I understand, Julian. That man just watched Taro lose, watched him leave with the Dragon's Veil, and he hasn't stopped smiling. I don't know what Kurogami's thinking, but I wouldn't like the look of that if I were Raigen."
Raigen grips the top rope.
He looks down toward Lord Kurogami, searching his face for some indication of what the Blood Oni leader intends.
Lord Kurogami slowly inclines his head toward him.
He offers no explanation.
Instead, he turns and begins walking toward the entrance ramp.
Raigen watches him leave.
The camera moves closer to the victorious warrior.
His breathing has begun to settle, but his expression remains troubled.
He looks toward the entrance through which Taro Okami departed.
Then back toward Lord Kurogami, who is disappearing into the darkness.
Raigen lowers his head.
The obligation has been settled.
The cleansing will take place.
But the smile upon Lord Kurogami's face has left the victor with a question that the result of tonight's match cannot answer.
The camera holds on Raigen as the arena lights slowly return to normal.
The broadcast fades to black.
The cameras cut backstage to the interview area of Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum.
Hana Nakamura stands beside Marcus the Beastmaster and the reigning NPCW Universal Tag Team Champions, Karnyx and Varak, the Ultimate Beasts.
Both champions have their title belts resting over their shoulders.
Marcus stands between his Beasts, his ever-present chain wrapped loosely around one hand. His expression is one of complete satisfaction.
Behind him, Karnyx and Varak remain silent, their enormous frames dominating the interview area.
Hana Nakamura: "Ladies and gentlemen, I'm joined by Marcus the Beastmaster and the reigning Universal Tag Team Champions, the Ultimate Beasts."
"Earlier tonight, Karnyx and Varak successfully defended their championships against the Virtuous Blades, Sir Galahad and Sir Gawain, in a contest that saw both teams deliver tremendous punishment."
"Marcus, your champions remain undefeated tonight, but their victory was not without controversy. You were involved in several incidents during the match, including striking Sir Galahad with a chain and choking Sir Gawain behind the referee's back."
Marcus the Beastmaster laughs.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "Controversy?"
"That's what you want to talk about, Hana? Controversy?"
He gestures toward the championship belts.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "Look at these two!"
"LOOK AT THEM!"
Karnyx raises his championship toward the camera.
Varak steps forward, his expression intimidating.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "Those are the Universal Tag Team Champions!"
"Not the Virtuous Blades. Not the knights of Camelot. Not some pair of pretty boys who think wearing a suit of armour makes them warriors!"
"MY BEASTS!"
Marcus laughs again.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "And tonight, they did exactly what I told everyone they were going to do."
"They walked into that ring, they took everything Camelot's finest had to offer, and they broke them!"
"Sir Galahad? Couldn't save his partner!"
"Sir Gawain? Couldn't save himself!"
"And Merlin?"
Marcus looks directly into the camera.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "That old fool spent the entire match waving his stick around and complaining to the referee!"
"Didn't do him much good, did it?"
Hana Nakamura: "Sir Gawain showed considerable resilience, particularly during the closing stages of the match. The Virtuous Blades came close to taking control on several occasions."
Marcus the Beastmaster: "Close?"
"Close doesn't mean a damn thing!"
"Close doesn't put championship gold around your waist!"
He turns toward Karnyx.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "What happened when Gawain tried to stand up to you?"
Karnyx slowly raises his fist.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "That's right!"
"You picked him up like a little toy and THREW HIM!"
Marcus turns back toward Hana.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "One hand! That's all it took!"
"And now everybody in Camelot knows what happens when they get in the ring with the Ultimate Beasts!"
Hana Nakamura: "So what's next for the champions? There are still several established tag teams here in the Mythic Division who would welcome an opportunity to challenge for those titles."
Marcus the Beastmaster shakes his head.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "No, Hana. No, no, no."
"That's where you're wrong."
"Because I've been looking around this division, and I'll tell you what I see."
He looks toward the championship belts.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "Nothing!"
"Not one team worth putting these two back in the ring with!"
"Tonight, we took Camelot's finest knights and left them lying on the canvas."
"Who else have you got?"
Marcus spreads his arms.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "Where's the competition?"
"Where are the men big enough, strong enough, and stupid enough to stand across from my Beasts?"
He pauses.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "There aren't any."
Hana Nakamura: "Are you suggesting the Ultimate Beasts won't be returning to Dark Fable?"
Marcus the Beastmaster: "That's exactly what I'm suggesting!"
"Why should we keep coming back to Camelot when there's nobody here worth fighting?"
"The Universal Tag Team Championship belongs to the Ultimate Beasts, and those titles can be defended anywhere in NPCW!"
He gestures toward the entrance corridor.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "Maybe it's time we head back North."
"Maybe it's time we find some real competition!"
"Because as far as I'm concerned, we've already beaten the best Camelot has to offer!"
Suddenly, the distant sound of whistling echoes through the backstage corridor.
Marcus stops speaking.
The familiar tune grows louder.
It is accompanied by the sound of several voices singing a traditional Sherwood Forest marching song.
Hana turns toward the corridor.
Hana Nakamura: "Wait a moment..."
The whistling grows louder.
Then two familiar figures emerge into view.
Friar Tuck and Little John.
The crowd inside the arena erupts as the members of the Merry Band appear on the screen.
Friar Tuck walks forward with a broad smile, while Little John carries his enormous staff across his shoulder.
The two men stop several feet away from Marcus and the champions.
Friar Tuck: "Well, well, well!"
"Did you hear that, John?"
Little John: "I heard it, Tuck."
Friar Tuck: "The great Marcus the Beastmaster says there's no competition left in Camelot!"
Little John: "Funny. We've been standing right here the whole time."
Marcus the Beastmaster looks from one man to the other.
A slow smile spreads across his face.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "Well, would you look at what wandered out of Sherwood Forest."
"Robin Hood's drinking buddies!"
Friar Tuck: "Now, now, Marcus. There's no need to be unpleasant."
"We were simply passing by when we heard you talking about leaving Camelot."
"And naturally, we thought..."
Little John: "Sounds like the Beasts are running away."
The smile disappears from Marcus's face.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "Running away?"
Little John: "That's what I said."
He steps closer.
Little John: "You've got those championship belts, but the moment somebody mentions defending them against a real team, you start talking about heading North."
"Sounds to me like you're scared."
Karnyx immediately steps forward.
Varak moves beside him.
Marcus raises his hand, stopping the champions from advancing.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "You think my Beasts are scared of YOU?"
Friar Tuck: "Well, if you're not scared, then surely you wouldn't mind giving us a little opportunity."
He gestures toward the championship belts.
Friar Tuck: "Those are very impressive titles you've got there."
"And since you seem so concerned about the lack of worthy challengers..."
Little John: "How about you put them on the line against us?"
Marcus looks toward Little John.
Then toward Friar Tuck.
For a moment, he appears to consider the challenge.
A smile slowly returns to his face.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "You know something?"
"I like you two."
Friar Tuck raises an eyebrow.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "You've got guts."
"Not much in the way of brains, but you've definitely got guts!"
He turns toward the champions.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "What do you think, boys?"
Karnyx cracks his knuckles.
Varak steps forward, looking directly at Little John.
Marcus turns back toward the members of the Merry Band.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "Fine!"
"You want a shot at the Universal Tag Team Championship?"
"YOU'VE GOT IT!"
The crowd erupts.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "This Friday!"
"Dark Fable Episode 036!"
"October 2!"
"Right here in Camelot!"
He points toward Little John.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "You and your little drinking buddy against the Ultimate Beasts!"
"UNIVERSAL TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP ON THE LINE!"
Hana Nakamura: "Marcus, are you officially accepting their challenge for this Friday's Dark Fable?"
Marcus the Beastmaster: "You heard me, Hana!"
"October 2!"
"Friar Tuck and Little John get their chance!"
He leans toward the microphone.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "And when my Beasts are finished with them, maybe the rest of the Merry Band will finally understand why they should've stayed in Sherwood Forest!"
Little John steps forward.
He stands directly in front of Marcus, towering over the Beastmaster.
Little John: "You just make sure your boys bring those belts."
"Because we're planning on taking them home."
Karnyx moves forward, but Marcus places a hand against his chest.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "Save it for Friday."
Friar Tuck smiles.
Friar Tuck: "Excellent!"
"Then I believe we have ourselves a championship match!"
He turns toward Little John.
Friar Tuck: "Come along, John. We've got some preparations to make."
Little John looks toward the champions one final time.
Little John: "See you Friday."
The two members of the Merry Band turn and begin walking away.
As they disappear into the corridor, the familiar Sherwood Forest whistling resumes.
Marcus watches them leave.
A satisfied smile remains on his face.
Hana Nakamura: "Well, there you have it! The Ultimate Beasts have accepted the challenge of Friar Tuck and Little John, and the Universal Tag Team Championship will be defended this Friday, October 2, on Dark Fable Episode 036!"
"Marcus, thank you for your time."
Marcus the Beastmaster: "My pleasure, Hana."
He turns toward his champions.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "Come on, boys. We've got work to do."
Marcus and the Ultimate Beasts leave the interview area.
Hana turns toward the camera.
Hana Nakamura: "An enormous opportunity for the Merry Band, who will now have the chance to challenge for the Universal Tag Team Championship this Friday!"
The broadcast appears ready to return to the arena.
But the camera remains in the backstage corridor.
THE CROWNE CONNECTION
Marcus the Beastmaster walks down the corridor with Karnyx and Varak following closely behind.
The three men approach a quiet intersection near the private dressing rooms.
Standing beside the entrance to one of the corridors is Severin Crowne.
He is dressed in his immaculate black suit, his hands folded neatly in front of him.
He looks toward the approaching champions.
Marcus immediately slows his pace.
His expression changes from boisterous confidence to quiet satisfaction.
Severin offers a small smile.
The camera remains several feet away, capturing the exchange from the opposite end of the corridor.
Marcus the Beastmaster: "They took the bait."
Severin Crowne glances briefly toward the corridor through which the Merry Band departed.
His smile widens almost imperceptibly.
Severin Crowne: "Excellent."
He turns back toward Marcus.
Severin Crowne: "Thank you, Marcus."
Marcus nods.
The two men exchange a brief handshake.
Severin then turns and walks away, disappearing into the adjoining corridor.
Marcus watches him leave before gesturing for Karnyx and Varak to follow.
The champions continue down the hallway.
The camera lingers on the now-empty intersection.
What appeared to be an impulsive championship challenge may have been something far more deliberate.
The broadcast cuts back to ringside.
Referee: 'Fast Count' Frank
The cameras return to Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum.
The arena lights slowly dim as the Age of Ruin logo fills the entrance screens.
The crowd rises in anticipation.
A montage begins to play, documenting the conflict that has brought the two men to this moment.
King Arthur seated upon the throne of Camelot, the Camelot Crown resting upon his head.
Robin Hood standing defiantly before him.
The Merry Band subjected to repeated attacks by the forces of Camelot.
The announcement of the $100,000 bounty.
The king's insistence that every subject must acknowledge his authority.
Then the final image from Friday's Dark Fable.
Robin Hood standing with Arthur's stolen royal crown.
The image fades.
A single question appears upon the entrance screens.
WHO WILL RULE CAMELOT?
Julian Ward: "Ladies and gentlemen, we have reached the main event of Age of Ruin. For weeks, the conflict between King Arthur and Robin Hood has threatened to consume the entire Mythic Division. Tonight, those two men will finally settle their differences with the Mythic Crown Championship on the line."
Brick Brody: "And there's a lot more than a championship riding on this one, Julian. Arthur wants to break Robin Hood. He wants the outlaw on his knees, admitting that the king is exactly what he claims to be."
Julian Ward: "The stipulation is clear. Should Robin Hood lose tonight, he must acknowledge Arthur as his king and kneel before him. It is a condition that strikes at the very foundation of everything Robin has stood for throughout this rivalry."
Brick Brody: "Robin's made a career out of refusing to bow to anybody. Well, tonight he has to back it up. Because if Arthur beats him, all those fine speeches about freedom aren't going to mean a damn thing."
Julian Ward: "For King Arthur, this is an opportunity to reinforce his authority and retain the championship he believes is inseparable from his position as King of Camelot."
"For Robin Hood, it is an opportunity to take the Mythic Crown from the man whose reign he has openly challenged."
"And after everything that has happened between them, neither man can afford to leave this ring defeated."
The lights go out.
KING ARTHUR'S ENTRANCE
A deep, ceremonial horn echoes throughout the Coliseum.
The entrance screens illuminate with the royal banners of Camelot.
A procession of armoured royal guards appears upon the entrance stage.
They form two lines, their swords raised to create a passage.
The sound of heavy drums begins to build.
Merlin emerges first.
The royal sorcerer pauses at the top of the ramp, his staff held firmly in one hand.
He turns toward the entrance.
A second horn sounds.
King Arthur steps into view.
The reigning Mythic Crown Champion wears his ornate royal entrance robes, the championship belt resting across his shoulder.
But his head remains bare.
The royal crown stolen by Robin Hood on Friday is conspicuously absent.
Arthur pauses beneath the entrance lights.
His expression is stern, his jaw clenched as he surveys the arena.
The crowd responds with a deafening chorus of boos.
Julian Ward: "The champion arrives without the royal crown that has become such a prominent symbol of his authority. Robin Hood's actions on Friday have clearly affected King Arthur, who has made no secret of his determination to humiliate the outlaw tonight."
Brick Brody: "Robin stole that crown to get inside Arthur's head, Julian. Well, he got his attention. Now he's got to deal with the consequences."
Arthur begins walking toward the ring.
Merlin follows closely.
The king ignores the spectators reaching toward him from behind the barricades.
His eyes remain fixed upon the ring.
At ringside, Arthur pauses and slowly removes the Mythic Crown Championship from his shoulder.
He studies the title before raising it toward the audience.
The boos intensify.
Arthur enters the ring and moves toward the centre.
Merlin takes his position at ringside.
The champion raises the title once more, then turns toward the entrance.
He waits.
ROBIN HOOD'S ENTRANCE
The royal music fades.
For several seconds, the arena remains dark.
Then a single whistle echoes through the Coliseum.
Another follows.
The entrance screens illuminate with the silhouette of Sherwood Forest.
A green arrow flies across the screen.
It strikes the centre of a golden crown, splitting it in two.
The crowd erupts.
The familiar music of the Merry Band begins to play.
Robin Hood emerges onto the entrance stage.
He wears his traditional Sherwood Forest wrestling attire, his bow slung across his back.
The outlaw pauses at the top of the ramp.
He looks toward the ring.
Arthur stands waiting, the championship belt still in his possession.
Robin slowly raises his bow toward the entrance screens.
The crowd roars.
Julian Ward: "Robin Hood has waited a long time for this opportunity. The outlaw who refused to acknowledge Arthur's authority now stands one victory away from taking the championship that has become the centrepiece of the king's reign."
Brick Brody: "And one defeat away from getting down on his knees in front of everybody. That's the part you keep forgetting, Julian. Robin's betting everything on winning this match."
Robin lowers his bow and begins walking toward the ring.
He acknowledges the cheering spectators before stopping near ringside.
His expression changes as he looks toward Arthur.
The smile disappears.
Robin removes his bow and hands it to a ringside attendant.
He climbs onto the apron.
Arthur steps forward.
The two men stare at one another across the ropes.
Robin enters the ring.
He moves directly toward the champion.
'Fast Count' Frank immediately steps between them, ordering both men to return to their respective corners.
Arthur raises the Mythic Crown Championship toward Robin's face.
King Arthur: "You will kneel before me tonight."
Robin Hood: "You'll have to beat me first."
The crowd erupts.
Arthur slowly lowers the championship.
FORMAL RING INTRODUCTIONS
Louie Linville steps into the centre of the ring.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is your MAIN EVENT of AGE OF RUIN!"
The crowd erupts.
Louie Linville: "This match is scheduled for one fall and is for the NPCW MYTHIC CROWN CHAMPIONSHIP!"
"Under the special conditions of this contest, should Robin Hood be defeated, he must acknowledge King Arthur as his king and KNEEL BEFORE HIM!"
The crowd responds with thunderous boos.
Louie Linville: "Introducing first, the challenger!"
"From Sherwood Forest! Representing the Merry Band! The outlaw who stands in defiance of the throne of Camelot..."
"ROBIN HOOD!"
Robin raises his arm toward the cheering crowd.
Louie Linville: "And his opponent!"
"Accompanied to the ring by Merlin!"
"The reigning and defending NPCW MYTHIC CROWN CHAMPION!"
"The King of Camelot..."
"KING ARTHUR!"
Arthur raises the championship above his head.
'Fast Count' Frank steps forward and takes possession of the title.
He displays it to both competitors before raising it toward the hard camera.
The championship is handed to the ringside attendant.
Merlin watches from the floor.
Robin and Arthur move toward the centre of the ring.
The referee delivers his final instructions.
Neither man acknowledges him.
Their attention remains fixed entirely upon one another.
'Fast Count' Frank signals for the bell.
DING! DING! DING!
Minute 1
Arthur advances immediately.
Robin Hood moves toward the centre of the ring, attempting to establish an opening against the champion.
Arthur catches the challenger by the arm and forces him backward.
He drives a knee into Robin's midsection before pulling him toward the canvas.
The champion follows with a powerful JUMPING KNEE DROP, driving his knee into the challenger's upper body.
Robin recoils from the impact.
Arthur rises and looks down at him.
King Arthur: "You should have stayed in Sherwood Forest."
The champion reaches down and pulls Robin toward his feet.
Julian Ward: "King Arthur immediately establishing himself as the aggressor. The champion has made no attempt to conceal his intentions tonight."
Brick Brody: "And why should he? Robin Hood humiliated him on Friday. Arthur's got a chance to settle that score, and he's not wasting any time."
Minute 2
Robin Hood fights his way upright and attempts to force Arthur backward.
The champion retreats toward the ropes.
At ringside, Merlin raises his staff.
The royal sorcerer fixes his attention upon Robin.
A faint, shimmering light emerges from the staff.
Robin suddenly hesitates.
His movements slow as he turns toward Merlin, his expression briefly clouded.
Julian Ward: "Merlin is attempting to mesmerize Robin Hood! The champion's advisor has already involved himself in this contest!"
Brick Brody: "Robin had better keep his eyes on Arthur. He knows Merlin's out there, and he knows exactly what that old sorcerer is capable of."
Arthur immediately takes advantage of the distraction.
He catches Robin and drives him down with a sharp strike before moving into a cover.
'Fast Count' Frank drops into position.
ONE!
Robin Hood kicks out!
The challenger forces himself upright.
As Arthur approaches again, Robin catches the champion around the head.
DDT!
Arthur crashes face-first into the canvas!
Robin rolls away and returns to his feet.
Julian Ward: "Robin Hood survives the early pin attempt and answers with a DDT! Despite Merlin's interference, the challenger has managed to regain his composure."
Brick Brody: "Arthur had him distracted, but he couldn't finish the job. Now he's the one with his face planted in the canvas."
Minute 3
Arthur attempts to rise.
Robin Hood moves toward him, refusing to allow the champion time to recover.
The challenger catches Arthur as he reaches his feet.
He turns his body and delivers ARROW'D END!
The stunner sends Arthur crashing backward onto the canvas.
The Coliseum erupts!
Julian Ward: "ARROW'D END! Robin Hood has connected with the stunner!"
Robin immediately drops into the cover.
'Fast Count' Frank moves into position.
ONE!
Arthur kicks out!
The crowd groans as Robin releases the cover.
The challenger rises to his knees and looks toward the referee.
Julian Ward: "An early opportunity for Robin Hood, but King Arthur survives the Arrow'd End. The challenger has demonstrated that he possesses the ability to bring the champion down."
Brick Brody: "He caught Arthur clean, Julian, but it wasn't enough. If Robin wants that championship, he's going to have to do a lot more than hit one stunner."
Robin rises.
Across the ring, Arthur pulls himself toward the ropes.
His expression has darkened considerably.
Minute 4
Robin Hood advances, looking to capitalize upon his early momentum.
Arthur catches the challenger with a strike to the midsection.
He follows with another, forcing Robin to bend forward.
The champion hooks both of his opponent's arms.
Robin attempts to escape, but Arthur maintains his grip.
He leaps forward.
KING'S DECREE!
The Pedigree drives Robin face-first into the canvas!
The crowd erupts in boos.
Arthur rises and looks down at the fallen challenger.
Julian Ward: "King's Decree! Arthur has answered the Arrow'd End with his own devastating maneuver!"
Brick Brody: "Now that's how you answer somebody who thinks he can take your crown. Robin caught him with the stunner, and Arthur just drove his face into the mat."
Arthur steps away from his opponent.
He raises one arm toward the crowd.
The boos intensify.
King Arthur: "YOUR KING!"
Robin begins pulling himself toward the ropes.
Minute 5
Arthur turns toward the recovering challenger.
Robin Hood uses the ropes to pull himself upright.
As the champion approaches, Robin catches him with a sharp strike and forces him backward.
Arthur attempts to regain his footing.
But Robin steps forward and drives him onto the canvas.
The challenger follows with a powerful SENTON, crashing down across the champion's upper body.
Arthur attempts to protect himself but cannot avoid the impact.
Robin rolls away and rises.
Julian Ward: "Robin Hood answers the King's Decree with a senton. Both men have already connected with significant offense, and neither has been able to maintain control for long."
Brick Brody: "Robin's still got plenty of fight left in him. Arthur hit him with the King's Decree, and the outlaw came right back. The king had better stop celebrating and start paying attention."
Minute 6
Arthur rises and immediately catches Robin Hood with a strike.
The champion forces the challenger backward before driving him to the canvas.
He follows with another JUMPING KNEE DROP!
Robin recoils from the impact.
But as Arthur attempts to rise, the challenger catches his leg.
Robin twists his body and forces the champion onto his stomach.
He steps through and locks in the SHARPSHOOTER!
The crowd erupts.
Julian Ward: "The Sharpshooter! Robin Hood has the champion trapped in the centre of the ring!"
Arthur cries out as Robin leans backward, applying pressure to the champion's lower back and legs.
'Fast Count' Frank moves into position.
'Fast Count' Frank: "Arthur! Do you submit?"
King Arthur: "NO!"
Robin tightens the hold.
At ringside, Merlin moves closer to the apron.
Julian Ward: "Arthur is in serious difficulty! If the champion submits, Robin Hood will become the new Mythic Crown Champion!"
Brick Brody: "And Arthur knows it! He's got to get out of that hold before Robin tears his legs apart!"
Arthur plants his hands against the canvas.
He drags himself forward, fighting against the pressure.
Robin attempts to pull him backward.
But the champion continues struggling.
Finally, Arthur manages to break the hold.
Robin releases his grip and steps backward.
Arthur rolls onto his side, clutching his lower back.
Julian Ward: "The champion survives the Sharpshooter, but that hold has clearly taken a toll. Robin Hood has targeted the lower body, and Arthur may find it increasingly difficult to maintain his usual offense."
Brick Brody: "He got out, Julian. That's what matters. Robin had him trapped, and the king refused to quit."
Minute 7
Both competitors return to their feet.
Arthur advances cautiously, attempting to prevent Robin Hood from securing another submission hold.
The two men engage near the centre of the ring.
Robin attempts to move behind the champion.
Arthur catches him and delivers an ATOMIC DROP!
The challenger staggers forward.
But Robin regains his footing and turns toward the champion.
He catches Arthur around the upper body, lifting him into position.
PUMPHANDLE KNEECAP BRAINBUSTER!
The champion crashes into the canvas!
The crowd erupts as Robin rises.
Julian Ward: "An extraordinary counterattack from Robin Hood! The pumphandle kneecap brainbuster connects, and King Arthur has been driven into the canvas!"
Brick Brody: "Arthur caught him with that atomic drop, but Robin came right back with a move that nearly put the king through the mat. Neither one of these men is giving an inch."
Robin steps backward, breathing heavily.
Arthur rolls toward the ropes.
The champion reaches for the bottom rope and begins pulling himself upright.
Minute 8
Robin Hood advances as Arthur returns to his feet.
The champion catches him before he can establish another hold.
He drives a sharp strike into Robin's midsection.
The challenger attempts to move away, but Arthur maintains his grip.
He lifts Robin and delivers another ATOMIC DROP!
The impact forces the challenger backward.
Arthur rises and moves toward him.
Julian Ward: "Arthur has returned to the atomic drop, attempting to disrupt Robin Hood's momentum and prevent the challenger from returning to the submission offense that threatened him earlier."
Brick Brody: "He's going after Robin's lower body now. That's not a bad idea. If the outlaw can't stand properly, he can't run around the ring throwing those fancy attacks."
Robin retreats toward the ropes.
Arthur follows, refusing to allow him time to recover.
Minute 9
Arthur catches Robin Hood as the challenger attempts to move away from the ropes.
He pulls him toward the centre of the ring.
Robin attempts to break free, but the champion secures his head and drives him down with a FLOWING DDT!
The challenger crashes face-first into the canvas.
The crowd responds with another wave of boos.
Arthur rises slowly.
He looks toward Merlin, who nods approvingly from ringside.
Julian Ward: "A flowing DDT from the champion. Arthur has taken control of the recent exchanges, and Robin Hood is now struggling to establish a response."
Brick Brody: "This is where the king's experience starts to matter, Julian. Robin came out swinging, but Arthur's making him pay for every mistake."
Arthur reaches down and pulls Robin toward his feet.
The challenger struggles to regain his balance.
Minute 10
Robin Hood attempts to fight back with a strike to the champion's midsection.
Arthur absorbs the blow and catches him before he can continue.
The king lifts the challenger into position.
Another ATOMIC DROP!
Robin staggers forward, clutching his lower body.
Arthur follows him toward the ropes.
He catches the challenger by the back of his attire and pulls him toward the centre of the ring.
Julian Ward: "Arthur has connected with another atomic drop. The champion is systematically wearing down Robin Hood, who has struggled to regain the momentum he established during the opening minutes."
Brick Brody: "Look at Robin now. He's hurting, he's slowing down, and Arthur knows it. The king's got him exactly where he wants him."
Robin attempts to force himself upright.
Arthur stands several feet away, watching the challenger struggle.
The champion slowly raises one hand.
King Arthur: "GET UP!"
The crowd responds with deafening boos.
Robin reaches his feet.
He looks directly toward the champion.
Arthur advances.
Minute 11
Robin Hood attempts to strike first.
But Arthur catches the challenger and drives a knee into his midsection.
Robin doubles over.
The champion hooks both of his opponent's arms.
The crowd rises.
Julian Ward: "Arthur has him! He's setting up the King's Decree!"
Robin struggles to escape.
But the punishment accumulated throughout the match has taken its toll.
Arthur maintains his grip.
He looks briefly toward the crowd.
Then he leaps forward.
KING'S DECREE!
The Pedigree drives Robin Hood face-first into the canvas!
The Coliseum erupts.
Arthur immediately turns the challenger over and hooks the leg.
'Fast Count' Frank drops into position.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
DING! DING! DING!
The crowd erupts into a thunderous mixture of boos and shocked reactions.
King Arthur releases the cover.
He rises slowly, looking down at the fallen Robin Hood.
For several seconds, the champion simply stands over his defeated opponent.
Then he raises both arms.
Julian Ward: "King Arthur has retained the Mythic Crown Championship! A second King's Decree has brought this contest to an end, and Robin Hood has been defeated!"
Brick Brody: "And now comes the part Robin didn't want to think about, Julian. He agreed to the stipulation. Arthur beat him in the middle of the ring, and there's no getting around that."
Julian Ward: "The champion leaves this contest with the Mythic Crown Championship still in his possession. Robin Hood fought to challenge Arthur's authority and claim the title, but the result now places him under the extraordinary obligation he agreed to before this match. The championship has been decided. The consequences of that defeat remain to be addressed."
RESULT: KING ARTHUR DEFEATS ROBIN HOOD BY PINFALL IN THE 11TH MINUTE AFTER THE KING'S DECREE TO RETAIN THE NPCW MYTHIC CROWN CHAMPIONSHIP.
Under the match stipulation, Robin Hood must acknowledge Arthur as his king and kneel before him.
POST-MATCH – THE KING'S VICTORY
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, here is your winner... AND STILL NPCW MYTHIC CROWN CHAMPION... KING ARTHUR!"
The crowd erupts in boos as 'Fast Count' Frank retrieves the Mythic Crown Championship.
Arthur takes possession of the belt and raises it above his head.
At ringside, Merlin applauds the champion.
The royal sorcerer climbs the ring steps and enters through the ropes.
He approaches Arthur and raises the king's arm.
The champion looks toward the entrance screens, where the image of his victory is being replayed.
Then his attention returns to the man lying on the canvas.
Robin Hood slowly begins to move.
The outlaw rolls onto his side, clutching his head.
He attempts to push himself upright but struggles to regain his balance.
Arthur watches him.
The expression upon the king's face changes.
His championship has been retained.
But there is still one matter to be settled.
Arthur lowers the title belt.
He looks toward Merlin, who offers a quiet nod.
The king turns toward Robin.
The crowd begins to grow louder as the realization spreads throughout the Coliseum.
King Arthur stands in the centre of the ring, his Mythic Crown Championship resting over his shoulder.
Across from him, Robin Hood struggles to one knee.
The champion extends his hand toward Merlin.
The royal sorcerer retrieves a microphone from the ringside attendant and places it in the king's hand.
Arthur slowly raises the microphone.
The camera closes in on his face.
His expression is one of cold satisfaction.
He looks down at Robin Hood.
The Coliseum fills with boos.
Arthur waits for the noise to subside.
The broadcast remains live inside the ring as the king prepares to address his defeated challenger.
AGE OF RUIN – MAIN EVENT POST-MATCH – THE SHADOW OF THE CROWN
The cameras remain inside the ring at Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum.
King Arthur stands in the centre of the ring, the Mythic Crown Championship resting upon his shoulder.
Beside him stands Merlin, watching as Robin Hood struggles to recover from the second King's Decree that ended the championship contest.
The outlaw rolls onto his stomach and slowly pushes himself onto his hands and knees.
Arthur looks down at him.
The king raises the microphone.
King Arthur: "Robin Hood."
The crowd erupts in boos.
King Arthur: "Look at me."
Robin slowly raises his head.
Arthur takes a step forward.
King Arthur: "You have spent weeks defying me. You have challenged my authority, insulted my kingdom, and stolen the very crown that symbolizes my right to rule."
"And tonight, before the eyes of every man and woman in Camelot, you have been defeated."
The king raises the Mythic Crown Championship.
King Arthur: "I remain your champion."
"I remain your king."
"And you..."
He points toward the canvas.
King Arthur: "You have an obligation to fulfil."
Robin manages to pull himself onto one knee.
He looks up at Arthur.
King Arthur: "KNEEL BEFORE YOUR KING!"
The crowd erupts in boos.
Robin slowly shakes his head.
Robin Hood: "No."
The single word draws an enormous cheer from the audience.
Arthur's expression darkens.
King Arthur: "You agreed to the conditions of this match!"
Robin Hood: "I agreed to fight you."
Arthur steps closer.
King Arthur: "And you LOST!"
Robin struggles to his feet, using the ropes to support himself.
He looks directly into the champion's eyes.
Robin Hood: "Then you've got your victory."
"But you haven't got my loyalty."
The crowd erupts.
Arthur moves toward him, but Merlin places a hand upon the king's shoulder.
Before either man can speak again—
The arena lights dim.
A solitary black business card appears upon the entrance screens.
The familiar music of Severin Crowne begins to play.
Julian Ward: "Wait a moment. Severin Crowne is coming out here? What business could he possibly have with this situation?"
Brick Brody: "I don't know, Julian. But after what happened to the Wizard's Warriors earlier tonight, I wouldn't trust that man anywhere near a wrestling ring."
The entrance screens display a silver crown emerging from the darkness.
Severin Crowne steps onto the entrance stage.
He is dressed in his immaculate black suit.
In his right hand, he carries a small, dark velvet bag.
Behind him emerge the Queens of Despair, Regina and Malice.
They are followed by Sir Agravaine, the Sheriff of Nottingham, and Tin Man.
A few steps behind the others walks Huntsman.
Unlike the rest of the group, he appears noticeably uneasy.
He looks toward the ring, then toward Severin, before reluctantly following the others down the ramp.
Julian Ward: "The entire group we saw assembled around Severin Crowne earlier tonight is making its way toward the ring. And I notice that Crowne is carrying something."
Brick Brody: "Whatever's in that bag, Julian, I guarantee you he didn't bring it out here for nothing."
Inside the ring, Arthur watches their approach.
His expression changes.
The anger that dominated his confrontation with Robin begins to give way to a more composed, almost expectant look.
Merlin steps closer to the king.
Neither man makes any attempt to stop Severin from approaching.
Suddenly, another movement draws the cameras toward the entrance.
Sir Lancelot emerges from the backstage area, followed by the Virtuous Blades, Sir Galahad and Sir Gawain.
The three knights make their way toward the ring.
Lancelot looks toward Severin Crowne and his associates.
His expression is unmistakably suspicious.
Julian Ward: "Sir Lancelot and the Virtuous Blades are coming out as well. Camelot's representatives are gathering around their king, but Lancelot does not appear particularly pleased with the arrival of Severin Crowne."
Brick Brody: "Lancelot's got every reason to be suspicious. Crowne's been collecting people all night, and now he's walking into the king's ring carrying a velvet bag. I'd want to know what the hell was going on too."
Severin Crowne climbs the ring steps.
He pauses briefly before entering.
Regina and Malice follow him into the ring, their eyes fixed upon Arthur with considerable interest.
Sir Agravaine, the Sheriff of Nottingham, and Tin Man enter behind them.
Huntsman climbs onto the apron but remains near the far corner after stepping through the ropes, keeping his distance from the others.
Sir Lancelot enters the ring and immediately positions himself beside Arthur.
He watches Severin carefully.
The Virtuous Blades remain at ringside, standing on either side of the entrance-facing apron.
The camera pulls back.
King Arthur stands over the battered but defiant Robin Hood.
Merlin remains beside the king.
Sir Lancelot stands at Arthur's other side.
Severin Crowne moves slowly between the champion and the challenger, the velvet bag still in his hand.
Behind him stand the Queens of Despair, with Sir Agravaine, the Sheriff of Nottingham, and Tin Man forming a second line.
Huntsman remains apart from the gathering.
The crowd grows louder.
Severin looks toward Robin, then turns to face Arthur.
He raises a microphone.
Severin Crowne: "Your Majesty."
The Coliseum erupts in boos.
Severin waits patiently for the reaction to subside.
Severin Crowne: "Please forgive the interruption."
"But I believe there is something rather important that requires our attention."
Arthur studies him.
King Arthur: "And what might that be, Crowne?"
Severin Crowne: "Well, Your Majesty..."
He gestures toward Robin Hood.
Severin Crowne: "The terms of tonight's contest were quite explicit."
"Mr. Hood was afforded the opportunity to challenge you for the Mythic Crown Championship."
"He accepted the additional condition that, should he fail in that endeavour, he would acknowledge you as his king and kneel before you."
Severin pauses.
Severin Crowne: "The match has concluded."
"The championship remains in your possession."
"And yet, the agreed obligation remains unfulfilled."
The crowd boos.
Robin looks toward Severin, his expression hardening.
Severin Crowne: "However..."
He raises one finger.
Severin Crowne: "Before we proceed, I believe there is a rather significant matter that has been overlooked."
The crowd begins to stir.
Robin straightens, suddenly interested in what Severin is about to say.
Sir Lancelot moves closer to Arthur, watching Crowne with increasing suspicion.
King Arthur: "Speak."
Severin Crowne: "Your Majesty, I would never presume to question the legitimacy of your authority."
"But surely we must acknowledge that there is something fundamentally inappropriate about the current circumstances."
He looks toward Robin.
Then toward Arthur's bare head.
Severin Crowne: "After all..."
"How can a man be expected to kneel before a king..."
He pauses.
Severin Crowne: "Who has no crown?"
The crowd erupts!
Robin Hood looks toward Severin in surprise.
For the first time since the match ended, a faint smile crosses the outlaw's face.
Julian Ward: "Severin Crowne appears to be questioning Arthur's demand! He's pointing out that the king is still without the crown Robin Hood stole on Friday!"
Brick Brody: "Hold on, Julian. Don't get carried away. Look at that man's face. Crowne's enjoying this far too much."
Arthur stares at Severin.
King Arthur: "You would do well to remember whom you are addressing."
Severin Crowne inclines his head respectfully.
Severin Crowne: "Of course, Your Majesty."
"Which is precisely why I have taken the liberty of correcting this unfortunate situation."
He raises the velvet bag.
The crowd begins to grow louder.
Severin slowly loosens the drawstring.
He reaches inside.
And withdraws—
THE CROWN OF CAMELOT.
The very crown stolen by Robin Hood on Friday's Dark Fable.
The Coliseum erupts in disbelief.
Julian Ward: "THE CROWN! Severin Crowne has Arthur's royal crown! How did he get possession of it?"
Brick Brody: "Now we're getting somewhere! Crowne didn't come out here to help Robin Hood. He came out here to finish what Arthur started!"
Robin's smile disappears.
He looks from the crown to Severin.
Then toward Arthur.
Severin Crowne: "A symbol of sovereignty, Your Majesty."
"An emblem of continuity."
"And a necessary reminder that the temporary misplacement of an object does not invalidate the authority of the man entitled to possess it."
Severin approaches Arthur.
Sir Lancelot instinctively moves forward, placing himself between the two men.
He looks directly into Severin's eyes.
Severin Crowne: "Sir Lancelot."
"A pleasure, as always."
Lancelot does not return the courtesy.
He looks toward the crown.
Then toward Arthur.
King Arthur: "Stand aside, Lancelot."
The knight hesitates.
King Arthur: "I said, stand aside."
Reluctantly, Lancelot moves back.
Severin steps before the king.
He raises the Crown of Camelot with both hands.
Severin Crowne: "Your Majesty."
"Allow me."
He places the crown upon Arthur's head.
The king closes his eyes briefly.
Then he straightens.
The Crown of Camelot has been restored to its owner.
Arthur raises the Mythic Crown Championship.
The crowd erupts in furious boos.
Julian Ward: "King Arthur has been reunited with his royal crown, and it is Severin Crowne who has returned it to him! This changes everything we believed we were witnessing earlier tonight."
Brick Brody: "Crowne's been playing a much bigger game than any of us realized. And look at Arthur. He isn't surprised. Not one damn bit."
Severin takes a step backward.
He lowers his head.
Then he kneels before Arthur.
Behind him, Regina and Malice bow.
Sir Agravaine lowers himself to one knee.
The Sheriff of Nottingham follows.
Tin Man kneels.
Near the corner, Huntsman hesitates.
He looks at the others before reluctantly lowering his head and bending one knee, his expression distinctly uncomfortable.
Merlin bows beside the king.
Sir Lancelot watches the display with visible unease.
He looks toward Arthur, who returns his gaze.
After a moment, Lancelot lowers himself to one knee.
At ringside, Sir Galahad and Sir Gawain follow his example.
The camera pulls back.
The ring is filled with men and women bowing before the crowned King of Camelot.
All except one.
Robin Hood.
The outlaw remains standing.
His eyes move across the assembled group.
He looks toward Tin Man.
Then toward Sir Agravaine and the Sheriff of Nottingham.
Finally, his attention settles upon Severin Crowne.
Robin Hood: "So that's what this is."
Arthur looks directly at him.
The king raises one hand.
King Arthur: "Rise."
Severin and his associates stand.
Merlin and Sir Lancelot rise beside the king.
At ringside, the Virtuous Blades return to their feet.
Arthur takes a step toward Robin.
King Arthur: "Now."
He points toward the canvas.
King Arthur: "KNEEL BEFORE YOUR KING."
Robin Hood: "No."
The crowd erupts.
Arthur looks toward Severin.
King Arthur: "Crowne."
Severin inclines his head.
Severin Crowne: "Your Majesty."
Arthur gestures toward the outlaw.
King Arthur: "It appears our guest requires assistance in fulfilling his obligations."
Severin smiles.
Severin Crowne: "An unfortunate necessity."
He turns toward the Sheriff of Nottingham.
The Sheriff reaches beneath his entrance attire.
He produces a short metal pipe.
Julian Ward: "Wait a moment. The Sheriff has brought a weapon into the ring!"
The Sheriff tosses the pipe toward Severin.
Crowne catches it.
Robin immediately steps backward.
Robin Hood: "Don't you dare!"
Severin approaches.
Robin raises his arms, preparing to defend himself.
But Crowne suddenly swings the pipe downward.
CRACK!
The metal strikes the back of Robin's knee!
The outlaw cries out as his leg buckles.
He collapses onto both knees.
The crowd erupts in furious boos.
Julian Ward: "Severin Crowne has struck Robin Hood with that metal pipe! He's forced him onto his knees!"
Brick Brody: "Arthur wanted the outlaw kneeling, and Crowne just made sure it happened. But this isn't what Robin agreed to. He agreed to acknowledge the king and kneel. He didn't agree to have his leg smashed with a pipe!"
Robin attempts to rise.
His injured knee gives way.
Severin steps behind him.
He seizes the outlaw by the hair and forces his head upward.
Severin Crowne: "Mr. Hood!"
"Look at your king."
Robin struggles against his grip.
Severin Crowne: "You entered into an agreement."
"You accepted its conditions."
"And now, having failed to secure the outcome you desired, you appear to believe that those conditions are somehow negotiable."
He pulls Robin's head back farther.
Severin Crowne: "They are not."
The crowd boos.
Severin Crowne: "ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR KING!"
Robin looks directly at Arthur.
Blood begins to trickle from his lip as he struggles against Severin's grip.
Robin Hood: "NO!"
The crowd erupts.
Arthur's expression twists with anger.
He steps forward.
King Arthur: "INSOLENT WRETCH!"
The king strikes Robin across the face with a vicious backhand slap.
The sound echoes throughout the Coliseum.
Robin's head snaps to the side.
Severin maintains his grip, preventing the outlaw from falling.
Arthur leans toward him.
King Arthur: "Even now, you continue to defy me?"
"You have been defeated!"
"Your cause has failed!"
"Your championship opportunity is gone!"
"And STILL you refuse to acknowledge your rightful king?"
Robin slowly turns his head.
He looks directly into Arthur's eyes.
Robin Hood: "You can put a crown on your head..."
He struggles to speak.
Robin Hood: "But that doesn't make you worthy of wearing it."
The crowd erupts!
Arthur steps backward.
For a moment, he appears ready to strike the outlaw again.
But he stops.
He looks toward Severin.
Then toward the assembled members of his court.
King Arthur: "Very well."
His voice becomes cold.
King Arthur: "If this outlaw refuses to acknowledge my authority, then he will be reminded of it."
He turns toward Severin.
King Arthur: "Crowne."
Severin Crowne: "Your Majesty."
King Arthur: "Place him in chains."
The crowd erupts in disbelief.
King Arthur: "Take him to the dungeons."
Robin looks up sharply.
Robin Hood: "You can't do this!"
Arthur looks down at him.
King Arthur: "I am your king."
"And until you learn what that means, the dungeons of Camelot shall be your home."
Julian Ward: "The championship match is over! Arthur has retained his title, but this imprisonment was never part of the agreed stipulation!"
Brick Brody: "Arthur's got his win, Julian. He's got his crown back. He's even got Robin on his knees. But that's not enough for him anymore."
Sir Lancelot steps forward.
Sir Lancelot: "Your Majesty."
Arthur turns toward him.
Sir Lancelot: "The outlaw has been defeated. The conditions of the contest have been enforced."
He glances toward Robin, who remains trapped in Severin's grip.
Sir Lancelot: "Surely there is no need for this."
Arthur fixes him with a cold stare.
King Arthur: "Are you questioning my judgment, Lancelot?"
Lancelot hesitates.
Sir Lancelot: "I am asking whether further punishment serves the honour of Camelot."
Arthur steps closer.
King Arthur: "The honour of Camelot is not yours to determine."
"You will stand aside."
Lancelot looks toward Merlin.
The royal sorcerer offers no assistance.
Reluctantly, the knight withdraws.
His expression makes it clear that he is far from satisfied.
Arthur turns toward Sir Agravaine.
King Arthur: "See that my orders are carried out."
Sir Agravaine steps forward.
From beneath his attire, he produces a set of heavy iron cuffs and chains.
Robin struggles as Severin forces him forward.
Sir Agravaine seizes the outlaw's arm.
He fastens the first cuff around Robin's wrist.
Then the second.
The iron restraints close with a heavy metallic click.
Robin attempts to pull away.
Tin Man steps forward and seizes him by the shoulders, holding him firmly in place.
Sir Agravaine kneels and fastens additional restraints around Robin's ankles.
A heavy chain connects the cuffs, restricting his movement.
Julian Ward: "They are placing Robin Hood in chains! King Arthur has ordered his defeated challenger taken to the dungeons of Camelot!"
Brick Brody: "And look who's doing the work. Crowne gives the orders, Agravaine brings the chains, and Tin Man holds the prisoner. All those people Crowne gathered together tonight are now standing behind Arthur."
Julian Ward: "It seems they have forgotten what it means to be a Champion of Camelot."
The camera moves toward Sir Lancelot.
The knight watches Robin being restrained.
His jaw tightens.
He looks toward Arthur, but the king has already turned his attention elsewhere.
Near the corner, Huntsman remains motionless.
He watches Tin Man restraining Robin.
His hands slowly tighten into fists.
For a moment, he appears ready to move.
Then Severin Crowne glances in his direction.
Huntsman lowers his eyes.
He remains where he is.
THE MERRY BAND ATTEMPTS A RESCUE
Suddenly, the familiar sound of Sherwood Forest whistles echoes throughout the Coliseum.
The crowd erupts.
Friar Tuck and Little John emerge from the backstage area!
Both men charge down the entrance ramp.
Julian Ward: "Here comes the Merry Band! Friar Tuck and Little John are trying to reach Robin Hood!"
Brick Brody: "And they're going to have to get through the Virtuous Blades first!"
Sir Galahad and Sir Gawain move toward the bottom of the ramp.
The two knights position themselves between the approaching members of the Merry Band and the ring.
Little John charges forward.
He attempts to force his way past Sir Gawain, but the knight steps into his path.
Sir Galahad moves to intercept Friar Tuck.
Little John: "GET OUT OF MY WAY!"
Sir Gawain: "Stand down!"
Little John shoves him backward.
Sir Galahad immediately moves toward Little John, forcing Friar Tuck to intervene.
The four men collide near the ringside barricade.
Friar Tuck: "LET US THROUGH! THAT'S OUR FRIEND!"
Sir Galahad: "You will not interfere with the king's orders!"
Little John attempts to push past the knights again.
But Sir Gawain catches him around the shoulders.
The two struggle against the barricade.
Friar Tuck tries to reach the ring from the opposite side, but Sir Galahad cuts him off.
Julian Ward: "The Virtuous Blades are preventing Friar Tuck and Little John from reaching the ring! Robin Hood is being taken away in chains while his friends are forced to watch!"
Inside the ring, Robin hears the commotion.
He struggles against Tin Man's grip.
Robin Hood: "TUCK! JOHN!"
Little John turns toward the ring.
Little John: "ROBIN!"
He attempts to force his way past Sir Gawain once more.
But the knight holds his position.
Arthur watches from the centre of the ring.
His expression remains cold.
King Arthur: "Keep them away."
Sir Galahad and Sir Gawain continue blocking the approach.
Merlin moves beside the king.
The royal sorcerer looks toward the struggling members of the Merry Band.
Then he returns his attention to Severin.
Merlin: "It is time."
Severin Crowne inclines his head.
THE BLOOD MOON WARDEN
The cameras suddenly cut to another section of the backstage area.
Blood Moon Warden is moving rapidly toward the arena entrance.
The sounds of the crowd and the confrontation at ringside can be heard in the distance.
The Warden passes several production staff members, his attention fixed upon the entrance ahead.
He reaches the final corridor.
But before he can continue, someone grabs him firmly by the arm.
Blood Moon Warden spins around.
Standing behind him is Mordred.
Blood Moon Warden: "Get your hand off me!"
Mordred releases his grip but remains directly in front of him.
Mordred: "Not now."
The Warden looks toward the arena entrance.
Blood Moon Warden: "They're taking Robin!"
He attempts to move past Mordred.
The former prince steps into his path again.
Mordred: "I know."
Blood Moon Warden: "Then get out of my way!"
Mordred looks directly into his eyes.
Mordred: "Listen to me."
"Arthur has surrounded himself with men who are prepared to carry out his orders without question."
"You go out there now, and you will accomplish nothing."
Blood Moon Warden: "THAT IS MY FRIEND!"
His voice echoes throughout the corridor.
Mordred does not raise his own.
Mordred: "And charging into a ring full of Arthur's men will not help him."
The Warden looks toward the entrance again.
His fists tighten.
Blood Moon Warden: "I cannot just stand here while they drag him away!"
Mordred: "I am not asking you to abandon him."
He steps closer.
Mordred: "But now is not the time."
"Nor is this the place."
The Warden studies him.
Mordred: "Trust me."
For several seconds, neither man speaks.
The distant crowd continues to roar.
Blood Moon Warden slowly lowers his fists.
Blood Moon Warden: "He had better not suffer for this."
Mordred looks toward the arena entrance.
Mordred: "Come."
The Warden hesitates one final time.
Then he turns away from the entrance.
Mordred places a hand upon his shoulder.
The two men disappear down the adjoining corridor.
THE KING'S PRISONER
The cameras return to the ring.
Robin Hood is now fully restrained.
Heavy iron cuffs encircle his wrists, while the chains connecting his ankle restraints restrict his ability to stand.
Severin Crowne steps away from him.
He looks toward Arthur.
Severin Crowne: "Your Majesty."
"The prisoner is ready."
Arthur surveys the scene before him.
Regina and Malice stand together, watching the king with expressions of quiet satisfaction.
The Sheriff of Nottingham rests the Eternal Flame Championship upon his shoulder.
Sir Agravaine holds the loose length of chain connecting Robin's restraints.
Tin Man stands behind the outlaw.
Huntsman remains near the corner.
And beside the king, Sir Lancelot watches in silence.
Arthur steps toward Robin one final time.
King Arthur: "You could have ended this, Robin."
"You could have accepted your defeat with dignity."
"You could have acknowledged the authority of your king."
"But instead, you chose defiance."
Robin slowly raises his head.
Robin Hood: "I'd choose it again."
The crowd erupts.
Arthur's expression hardens.
He turns away.
King Arthur: "Take him."
Tin Man reaches down and seizes Robin.
The outlaw struggles, but the restraints prevent him from mounting any meaningful resistance.
With a single powerful motion, Tin Man lifts Robin Hood off the canvas.
He throws the chained outlaw over his shoulder.
The crowd erupts in furious boos.
Julian Ward: "Tin Man has lifted Robin Hood onto his shoulder! The Merry Band's leader is being carried out of the ring in chains!"
Brick Brody: "And the men he trusted can't get anywhere near him. Arthur has turned a championship victory into something a hell of a lot uglier."
Arthur raises the Mythic Crown Championship.
The royal crown remains firmly upon his head.
King Arthur: "CAMELOT!"
The crowd boos.
King Arthur: "BEHOLD YOUR KING!"
He lowers the microphone.
Merlin steps beside him.
Severin Crowne moves toward the ropes and holds them open for the champion.
Arthur exits the ring first.
Merlin follows.
Behind them come Severin Crowne, Regina, and Malice.
Sir Agravaine and the Sheriff of Nottingham follow as Tin Man carries the chained Robin Hood toward the ropes.
The outlaw's arms hang over Tin Man's enormous shoulder.
His face is bruised, his hair dishevelled, and his injured leg hangs awkwardly beneath the heavy iron restraints.
Sir Agravaine assists in guiding the chains as Tin Man steps onto the apron and carries his prisoner down to ringside.
The crowd begins chanting.
"ROBIN! ROBIN! ROBIN!"
Robin raises his head.
He looks toward the spectators.
Despite the punishment he has endured, he attempts to acknowledge them.
At the foot of the ramp, Friar Tuck and Little John are still being held back by the Virtuous Blades.
Little John sees Robin being carried away.
His expression changes from anger to disbelief.
Little John: "ROBIN!"
He attempts to break free once more.
Sir Gawain steps into his path.
Little John: "LET HIM GO!"
Friar Tuck reaches toward his friend.
Friar Tuck: "Robin! We're coming for you!"
Robin turns his head toward them.
His voice is strained.
Robin Hood: "Don't..."
Little John stops struggling for a moment.
Robin Hood: "Not here..."
Tin Man continues walking.
Severin moves beside him, maintaining a watchful eye on the prisoner.
Arthur leads the procession toward the entrance ramp.
The king does not look back.
The camera moves toward Sir Lancelot, who has remained inside the ring.
He watches the procession with an expression of unmistakable disapproval.
His eyes follow Robin Hood as the outlaw is carried away.
Then he looks toward Arthur.
Lancelot makes no attempt to join the celebration.
He slowly steps through the ropes and descends to ringside.
Near the opposite corner, Huntsman remains standing alone.
He looks toward the departing procession.
His gaze settles upon Robin.
For a brief moment, the hunter appears ready to follow.
Instead, he turns his head toward Sir Lancelot.
The two men exchange a look.
Neither speaks.
Huntsman lowers his eyes and reluctantly exits the ring, following the others at a distance.
Julian Ward: "King Arthur has retained the Mythic Crown Championship, but what we are witnessing now goes far beyond the result of a wrestling match."
"Severin Crowne has returned the Crown of Camelot to Arthur, and the men and women he assembled earlier tonight have openly acknowledged the king's authority."
"Robin Hood has been beaten, forcibly brought to his knees, and ordered into imprisonment."
"And the friends who attempted to intervene have been prevented from reaching him."
Brick Brody: "Arthur wanted to prove that nobody could stand against him. He got his championship victory, and now he's got Robin in chains. But look at Lancelot. Look at Huntsman. Not everybody out here seems pleased with what the king has done."
The camera follows the procession toward the entrance stage.
Arthur pauses beneath the enormous Age of Ruin logo.
He turns toward the crowd.
The royal crown rests upon his head.
The Mythic Crown Championship is raised above his shoulder.
Behind him stand Merlin and Severin Crowne.
The Queens of Despair take their places beside Crowne, while the Sheriff of Nottingham and Sir Agravaine stand behind them.
Tin Man remains at the rear of the procession.
Over his shoulder hangs the chained and defeated Robin Hood.
Arthur surveys the Coliseum.
A satisfied smile crosses his face.
Julian Ward: "The king has his crown. The king has his championship. And now the king has his prisoner."
"But as Arthur stands surrounded by those who have pledged themselves to his authority, the question remains whether the kingdom he claims to rule can endure the consequences of what has happened here tonight."
The camera slowly moves closer to Robin Hood.
He raises his head just enough to look back toward the ring.
At ringside, Friar Tuck and Little John watch helplessly as their friend is carried away.
The outlaw's eyes remain open.
His expression is filled with pain.
But there is no submission in his gaze.
The camera returns to Arthur.
He lowers the championship and turns toward the entrance.
Severin Crowne steps beside him.
Together, the king and his newly revealed allies disappear into the darkness of Camelot's entranceway.
Robin Hood is carried away behind them.
The final image is the empty ring.
The place where the outlaw fought for the Mythic Crown.
And where his king ordered him taken away in chains.
The Age of Ruin has begun.
The cameras return to the commentary desk.
Behind Julian Ward and Brick Brody, the ring stands empty.
The crowd remains restless, the events of the main event still weighing heavily upon Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum.
Julian Ward: "Ladies and gentlemen, King Arthur has retained the Mythic Crown Championship. But tonight, we witnessed something far more consequential than a championship victory."
"Severin Crowne has revealed the extent of his alliance with the king. Robin Hood has been taken away in chains. And the kingdom of Camelot now faces questions that cannot be answered by the result of a wrestling match."
Brick Brody: "Arthur got everything he wanted tonight, Julian. His crown, his championship, and Robin Hood on his knees. But he needed Crowne and an entire court to make it happen. And some of the men standing beside him didn't look too pleased with what they saw."
Julian Ward: "What happens next remains to be seen. We will return this Friday, October 2, for Dark Fable Episode 036, where the Ultimate Beasts will defend the Universal Tag Team Championship against Friar Tuck and Little John."
"But tonight, the Merry Band leaves without its leader."
A brief silence.
Julian Ward: "For Brick Brody, I'm Julian Ward. Thank you for joining us for Age of Ruin. Good night, everyone."
The camera slowly pulls away from the commentary desk.
The broadcast cuts to a final image from moments earlier.
King Arthur, crowned and carrying the Mythic Crown Championship, stands at the entrance to Camelot.
Beside him is Severin Crowne.
Behind them, Tin Man carries the chained Robin Hood into the darkness.
The image holds.
The screen fades to black.
END OF AGE OF RUIN.
Hell of a show!
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