Aired - October 2, 2026
Black.
A chain drags across stone.
For several seconds, there is no music. Only the slow scrape of iron, followed by the heavy closing of a cuff.
White lettering emerges from the darkness.
FIVE NIGHTS AGO.
The image opens inside Scrooge’s Camelot Coliseum.
King Arthur stands above the fallen Robin Hood, the Mythic Crown Championship raised in his hand.
The footage slows as the champion turns toward his defeated challenger.
Voice-over: “The contest ended.”
A cut to Merlin, placing a microphone into the king’s waiting hand.
Voice-over: “The punishment had only begun.”
The original broadcast audio breaks through.
King Arthur: “KNEEL BEFORE YOUR KING!”
Across from him, Robin Hood struggles upright against the ropes.
Robin Hood: “No.”
A low drum sounds.
The picture cuts to Severin Crowne, opening the velvet bag.
Gold catches the light.
The Crown of Camelot rises into view.
Voice-over: “A stolen crown returned. An alliance revealed.”
Sir Lancelot moves between Severin Crowne and King Arthur.
King Arthur: “Stand aside, Lancelot.”
The knight hesitates.
The next image shows Severin Crowne placing the royal crown upon the king’s head.
Behind him, Regina and Malice bow. Sir Agravaine, Sheriff of Nottingham, and Tin Man kneel.
Near the corner, Huntsman lowers his head a moment later than the others.
The drum sounds again.
A brief flash from earlier in the night.
Scarecrow reaches desperately toward his corner.
Tin Man refuses the tag.
The image cuts to Lion, attacked at ringside by the partner he trusted.
Voice-over: “Before the court could gather, loyalties had to be broken.”
A black business card turns slowly against the darkness.
Then—
The metal pipe strikes the back of Robin Hood’s knee.
The music stops.
The outlaw collapses.
Severin Crowne: “ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR KING!”
A close shot of Robin Hood’s face.
Robin Hood: “NO!”
The refusal echoes over an image of King Arthur, staring down at him.
King Arthur: “Place him in chains.”
A cuff closes.
King Arthur: “Take him to the dungeons.”
The choir enters, low and restrained.
Sir Lancelot: “I am asking whether further punishment serves the honour of Camelot.”
King Arthur: “The honour of Camelot is not yours to determine.”
The camera holds on the knight’s expression before cutting to Huntsman, his fists tightening at his sides.
Neither man moves.
Voice-over: “Those who questioned him remained beside him.”
At ringside, Friar Tuck and Little John collide with the Virtuous Blades.
Sir Galahad blocks one path.
Sir Gawain closes the other.
Friar Tuck: “LET US THROUGH! THAT’S OUR FRIEND!”
The footage cuts backstage.
Blood Moon Warden attempts to move past Mordred.
Mordred: “I am not asking you to abandon him.”
A pause.
Mordred: “But now is not the time.”
Black.
Voice-over: “And those who would have fought for him were left behind.”
The picture returns to Tin Man, carrying the chained Robin Hood away from the ring.
Above the crowd, one promise remains audible.
Friar Tuck: “We’re coming for you!”
The image freezes.
Then it burns away, revealing footage recorded earlier that same evening.
The Universal Tag Team Championship belts rest upon the shoulders of Karnyx and Varak.
Marcus the Beastmaster: “This Friday!”
A cut to Friar Tuck and Little John, standing before the champions.
Marcus the Beastmaster: “UNIVERSAL TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP ON THE LINE!”
The interview dissolves into the quiet backstage corridor.
Severin Crowne waits at the intersection.
Marcus the Beastmaster: “They took the bait.”
Severin Crowne: “Excellent.”
Their hands meet.
The picture darkens around the handshake.
Voice-over: “Tonight, two men arrive to fight for gold.”
A final replay of Robin Hood, looking back toward his friends from beneath the weight of his chains.
Voice-over: “They return to the place where their leader was taken.”
An ancient book opens upon a stone lectern.
Across its parchment lies a broken arrow.
Beyond it, a crown casts a long shadow in the torchlight.
Robin Hood’s voice returns, strained but clear.
Robin Hood: “I’d choose it again.”
The page turns.
The NPCW: DARK FABLE crest emerges from the darkness.
Voice-over: “Every legend has a darker chapter.”
A bell tolls.
DARK FABLE — EPISODE 036
OCTOBER 2, 2026
LIVE FROM SCROOGE’S CAMELOT COLISEUM
The crest fades.
The sound of the live crowd rises.
The opening fades directly into a wide shot of the ring.
King Arthur stands at its centre.
The Crown of Camelot rests upon his head. The Mythic Crown Championship lies over his shoulder. He holds a microphone at his side, waiting while the crowd’s hostility rolls through Scrooge’s Camelot Coliseum.
At his right stands Regina.
One hand rests upon the king’s arm. As the camera moves closer, she leans toward him and quietly says something near his ear. King Arthur allows himself a small smile. He makes no attempt to distance himself when her hand slides affectionately toward his shoulder.
Beside Regina, Malice watches the audience with cold satisfaction.
At the king’s left stands Severin Crowne, immaculate in his black suit, hands folded neatly before him.
Merlin waits behind the two men.
In one corner, Sir Lancelot and Lady Guinevere stand together, visibly removed from the gathering at the centre.
The knight studies Severin Crowne.
Lady Guinevere’s attention rests upon Regina’s hand.
Her expression tightens as Regina moves closer to King Arthur.
Around the outside of the ring, Sir Galahad, Sir Gawain, Sir Agravaine, Sheriff of Nottingham, Tin Man, and The Huntsman form a guarded perimeter.
The Eternal Flame Championship rests over Sheriff of Nottingham’s shoulder.
Tin Man stands motionless near the foot of the entrance ramp.
Several feet away, The Huntsman looks toward the ring. His jaw is set. When Severin Crowne glances in his direction, the hunter turns his attention toward the crowd.
At the centre, King Arthur slowly raises his microphone.
King Arthur: “The King of Camelot is here.”
Boos swell throughout the building.
He lifts his chin.
King Arthur: “Acknowledge him.”
The response becomes louder.
Regina looks around the Coliseum with open disdain. Her fingers remain curled around the king’s arm.
King Arthur: “You were given ample opportunity to place your faith in an outlaw.”
“You cheered his insolence. You celebrated his theft. You convinced yourselves that a man who crept through forests and stole from his betters might somehow become worthy of my throne.”
He adjusts the championship upon his shoulder.
King Arthur: “Then he stood before me.”
“And he lost.”
The crowd begins chanting.
“ROBIN! ROBIN! ROBIN!”
King Arthur waits, his expression hardening.
King Arthur: “Call for him.”
“Let him hear you, if your voices can reach far enough beneath the stones of Camelot.”
Lady Guinevere looks toward Sir Lancelot.
The knight does not take his eyes off the king.
King Arthur: “The age of outlaws is finished.”
“No longer will this division be governed by the whims of thieves, wandering rebels, and men who mistake defiance for honour.”
“An age of order has begun.”
He pauses.
King Arthur: “An age of obedience.”
At ringside, Sir Agravaine straightens.
King Arthur turns slightly toward Severin Crowne.
King Arthur: “A sovereign must surround himself with those who possess the resolve to carry out his will.”
“Those who understand that a command is to be obeyed, not debated.”
His gaze briefly passes over Sir Lancelot.
King Arthur: “Severin Crowne has demonstrated that resolve.”
“He and those assembled under his direction have rendered a service to this kingdom. They have restored what was stolen. They have exposed the weakness of my enemies. And they have shown what loyalty can accomplish when it is unburdened by hesitation.”
Severin Crowne inclines his head.
King Arthur: “Henceforth, they shall be known as the Shadow Court.”
Regina smiles.
Malice looks toward Lady Guinevere, holding her gaze for a moment.
King Arthur: “Enforcers of the king’s will.”
“Let every competitor in the Mythic Division understand what that means.”
He steps forward.
King Arthur: “You will bow before your king.”
“Or you will join Robin Hood in—”
A sharp whistle cuts through the arena.
An arrow strikes the canvas directly before King Arthur’s boots.
The king recoils.
Regina jerks backward, catching his arm. Severin Crowne steps aside as Merlin immediately looks upward.
The arrow’s shaft trembles.
The camera closes upon its distinctive fletching.
One of Robin Hood’s special arrows.
The crowd erupts.
King Arthur stares at it.
King Arthur: “IMPOSSIBLE!”
At ringside, Sir Agravaine turns toward the entrance. Sir Galahad and Sir Gawain scan the upper tiers.
Then a spotlight sweeps across the rafters.
High above the ring, Maid Marion stands upon a maintenance platform.
A bow is lowered at her side.
In her other hand, she holds a microphone.
Beside her stands Lark of Sherwood.
The roar grows as their faces appear upon the arena screens.
Maid Marion: “You should know his arrows by now, Arthur.”
The king looks upward.
Maid Marion: “And you should know that putting him in chains will not silence the rest of us.”
King Arthur: “You dare threaten your king?”
Maid Marion: “You have gone mad.”
The words land without hesitation.
Maid Marion: “You won a wrestling match. Then you had an injured man struck with a pipe, chained, and carried away because he would not give you the satisfaction of surrendering.”
She looks down at the court gathered around him.
Maid Marion: “Release Robin Hood. Immediately.”
Lark of Sherwood steps closer to the platform railing.
Below, King Arthur gives a short, contemptuous laugh.
King Arthur: “You stand above me with a stolen moment of courage and imagine yourself in a position to issue demands?”
He points toward the rafters.
King Arthur: “You will come down eventually.”
“And when you do, you and every remaining member of your miserable band will learn precisely how much room remains in my dungeons.”
The crowd boos.
King Arthur: “You wish to stand beside your outlaw?”
“Then you may wear his chains.”
Before Maid Marion can answer, another entrance theme cuts through the building.
Elias Coldmere’s music.
The crowd rises as the Mythic Commissioner steps onto the stage.
He surveys the ring.
Behind him emerge Allan A Dale, Friar Tuck, and Little John.
There is no singing.
Little John immediately fixes his attention upon Tin Man. Friar Tuck walks with his hands clenched at his sides. Allan A Dale remains close behind the commissioner, watching the men stationed around the ring.
Elias Coldmere proceeds down the ramp without speaking.
The perimeter closes.
Sir Agravaine moves directly into his path. Tin Man and Sheriff of Nottingham join him, while the Virtuous Blades step forward on either side.
The Huntsman moves toward the gathering more slowly, his displeasure unmistakable.
The commissioner stops before Sir Agravaine.
Neither man gives ground.
Elias Coldmere: “Let me pass.”
Sir Agravaine looks down at him.
Behind the commissioner, Little John takes a step forward.
Elias Coldmere raises one hand, stopping him without looking back.
His eyes remain upon the knight.
Elias Coldmere: “You heard me.”
Inside the ring, King Arthur studies the confrontation.
Then he makes a small motion with his hand.
Sir Agravaine steps aside.
The others open a narrow passage.
Elias Coldmere turns briefly toward the three men behind him.
Elias Coldmere: “Remain here.”
Friar Tuck looks toward the king, then reluctantly nods.
The commissioner climbs the steps and enters alone.
Severin Crowne watches him approach.
Regina keeps one hand upon King Arthur’s arm until the king steps away from her to meet him.
The two men stand face to face.
The crowd quiets enough for their microphones to carry clearly.
Elias Coldmere: “You have placed bounties on performers under my jurisdiction.”
King Arthur says nothing.
Elias Coldmere: “You have ordered a member of this roster thrown into your dungeons.”
“And now you stand in my ring announcing that this Shadow Court will enforce your will upon anyone who refuses to obey you.”
A murmur moves through the audience.
Elias Coldmere: “You have used these people to intimidate, assault, and terrorize others.”
He looks toward Severin Crowne.
Elias Coldmere: “And you appear prepared to continue.”
Severin Crowne steps forward, lifting his microphone.
Severin Crowne: “Commissioner.”
His voice is courteous.
Severin Crowne: “Before this conversation proceeds any further, I believe a necessary distinction should be made.”
He gestures toward King Arthur.
Severin Crowne: “His Majesty is the true King of Camelot.”
“A fair and just ruler, concerned with the prosperity, stability, and continued welfare of his kingdom.”
The crowd boos heavily.
Severin Crowne allows the noise to pass.
Severin Crowne: “He wants what is best for Camelot.”
“And he intends to exercise the authority of his position to ensure that those interests are protected.”
He moves half a step closer to Elias Coldmere.
Severin Crowne: “No individual may be permitted to obstruct that responsibility.”
“Not an outlaw.”
“Not his associates.”
A pause.
Severin Crowne: “And not you.”
King Arthur looks smugly at the commissioner.
Outside the ring, Friar Tuck shakes his head in disgust. Little John grips the top of the barricade beside him, watching for the commissioner’s response.
Elias Coldmere looks from Severin Crowne to King Arthur.
A small smirk appears.
Elias Coldmere: “Oh, yes?”
He pauses.
Elias Coldmere: “Well, there is only one thing I have to say to that…”
The commissioner lowers his head.
Elias Coldmere: “My Majesty.”
He bows.
For a moment, the Coliseum falls almost silent.
Then a collective gasp spreads through the crowd.
At ringside, Allan A Dale stares.
Friar Tuck’s mouth opens slightly.
Little John releases the barricade.
In the corner, Lady Guinevere turns toward Sir Lancelot. The knight watches the commissioner with a rigid, disbelieving expression.
High above them, Maid Marion slowly lowers her microphone.
King Arthur chuckles.
The sound carries through his microphone.
Regina smiles broadly and returns to his side.
Severin Crowne takes a measured step back, allowing the commissioner room to rise.
Elias Coldmere straightens.
Then he turns toward the Merry Band.
The boos begin before he speaks.
Elias Coldmere: “For too long, outlaws have behaved as though they rule the Mythic Division.”
Friar Tuck: “What are you doing?”
The words carry from ringside.
The commissioner looks directly at him.
Elias Coldmere: “Correcting that assumption.”
He moves toward the ropes.
Elias Coldmere: “Under my watch, and at the behest of His Majesty, a new age of order will be implemented throughout this division.”
“Authority will be respected.”
“Disobedience will have consequences.”
“And championship opportunities will no longer be treated as rewards for those who openly defy the leadership of Camelot.”
Little John steps toward the apron.
Little John: “You brought us down here!”
Elias Coldmere: “Yes.”
The commissioner lets the answer settle.
Elias Coldmere: “I wanted you to hear this clearly.”
He looks between Friar Tuck and Little John.
Elias Coldmere: “You believe you have a Universal Tag Team Championship match against the Ultimate Beasts tonight.”
“That match is cancelled.”
The Coliseum erupts.
Friar Tuck grabs the middle rope.
Friar Tuck: “We earned that opportunity!”
Elias Coldmere: “I do not reward lawlessness.”
Behind him, King Arthur watches with visible satisfaction.
Elias Coldmere: “You will, however, compete.”
“In tonight’s main event, Friar Tuck, Little John, and Allan A Dale will face Tin Man, Sir Agravaine, and Severin Crowne in a six-man tag team match.”
Severin Crowne smooths the front of his jacket.
Little John surges toward the ring.
Friar Tuck follows.
The defenders close upon them immediately.
Sir Gawain meets Little John at the apron, driving him backward with a forearm across the chest. Sir Galahad joins him, forcing the larger man away from the ropes.
On the other side, Sir Agravaine catches Friar Tuck as he attempts to climb onto the apron.
Sheriff of Nottingham drives a hard shot into his midsection.
Tin Man advances, shoving Little John back toward the foot of the ramp as the two knights maintain their positions.
Allan A Dale catches Friar Tuck before he can fall and pulls him away from another strike.
The crowd roars its anger.
The Huntsman remains at the edge of the confrontation.
He does not join the blows.
His eyes move from the struggling Merry Band to Elias Coldmere.
Inside the ring, the commissioner watches without intervening.
King Arthur raises his microphone.
King Arthur: “You see?”
He looks down at Friar Tuck and Little John.
King Arthur: “Still they must be taught.”
Little John tries to surge forward again, but Allan A Dale catches his arm. Friar Tuck, bent slightly at the waist, places a hand against his partner’s chest.
The line of knights and enforcers holds.
Elias Coldmere turns away from them.
He looks upward.
The spotlight returns to the rafters.
Maid Marion has her microphone raised again, but the commissioner speaks first.
Elias Coldmere: “And as for the two of you.”
Lark of Sherwood steps beside Maid Marion.
Elias Coldmere: “You will come down from there.”
“This is a sanctioned wrestling broadcast. You will conduct yourselves accordingly.”
His gaze settles upon Lark of Sherwood.
Elias Coldmere: “Lark, you are competing next.”
He turns toward the corner.
Elias Coldmere: “Against Lady Guinevere.”
Lady Guinevere looks sharply at him.
Then toward King Arthur.
The king offers no explanation.
Regina tilts her head, watching her reaction with a faint smile.
Sir Lancelot leans toward Lady Guinevere, speaking too quietly for the microphones to catch.
Above the ring, Lark of Sherwood looks down at her assigned opponent.
Maid Marion places a hand upon her shoulder.
The commissioner lowers his microphone.
The camera holds on the ring: King Arthur at its centre, Regina close beside him, Severin Crowne composed at his other side.
Elias Coldmere now stands with them.
The broadcast cuts to the commentary desk.
Julian Ward: “The commissioner has placed the authority of this division behind King Arthur. The men who followed him to the ring expecting intervention have instead lost their championship opportunity.”
Brick Brody: “They followed him because they thought he was going to fight their battle for them. He walked them straight down here, looked them in the eye, and took their title match away. That was deliberate, Julian. Every step of it.”
Julian Ward: “And when they protested, the men protecting the ring beat them back. Robin Hood remains imprisoned. Now his friends must compete under the authority of a commissioner who has publicly bowed to the man holding him.”
Brick Brody: “Then they’d better get control of themselves before that main event. You saw what happened when they charged in angry. Severin Crowne saw it too, and he’ll be looking for exactly the same mistake later.”
The first match graphic appears.
Julian Ward: “We begin next with the contest just ordered: Lady Guinevere against Lark of Sherwood. Neither woman arrived at ringside expecting that announcement, and Lady Guinevere’s reaction leaves considerable doubt about how willingly she accepts the role assigned to her.”
Brick Brody: “Willing or not, she’s got an opponent now. Whatever she thinks about the company her king keeps, she’d better sort it out before the bell.”
The graphic changes.
Julian Ward: “Also tonight, Sandman faces Sinbad in singles competition.”
Brick Brody: “And there’s still a ring to fight in beneath all this royal business. Those two have an opportunity to make people pay attention.”
The next graphic fills the screen.
Julian Ward: “Thorn and Crown, Rosalyn and Morganna, meet the Patchwork Dolls, Piper and Paula.”
Brick Brody: “Stay together, protect your corner, and punish the first mistake. That’s what both teams need to concern themselves with tonight.”
The Eternal Flame Championship appears between the next two portraits.
Julian Ward: “Sheriff of Nottingham defends the Eternal Flame Championship against Mordred. The champion has just helped enforce the commissioner’s decision at ringside. Later, he must answer a challenger inside the ropes.”
Brick Brody: “The Sheriff likes handing out punishment. Mordred needs to make him take some before he settles into that work.”
Another graphic follows.
Julian Ward: “Frankenstein’s Monster will face Lion, who enters tonight after Tin Man’s betrayal at Age of Ruin.”
Brick Brody: “Being betrayed doesn’t buy you a recovery period. Lion has an enormous opponent waiting for him. If he spends that match thinking about Tin Man, he’ll get flattened.”
The main-event graphic appears.
Sir Agravaine. Severin Crowne. Tin Man.
Opposite them:
Allan A Dale. Friar Tuck. Little John.
Julian Ward: “And our revised main event: Sir Agravaine, Severin Crowne, and Tin Man against Allan A Dale, Friar Tuck, and Little John. The promised Universal Tag Team Championship defence has been cancelled by Elias Coldmere.”
Brick Brody: “The gold’s gone from the table. Now the Merry Band gets a chance to put their hands on three men standing behind the king. They can waste the night raging about what they lost, or make that opportunity hurt.”
The camera returns briefly to ringside.
Allan A Dale guides Friar Tuck back up the ramp.
Little John follows reluctantly, walking backward for several steps with his eyes fixed upon the ring.
Inside, Lady Guinevere remains beside Sir Lancelot.
Across from them, Regina rests her hand upon King Arthur’s chest.
Julian Ward: “King Arthur demanded obedience. Tonight, the commissioner supplied it.”
A measured pause.
Julian Ward: “Lady Guinevere and Lark of Sherwood are next.”
The royal gathering has withdrawn from ringside, leaving Lady Guinevere inside the ropes.
Merlin remains at her corner.
The arrow has been removed from the canvas, but the crowd continues calling Robin Hood’s name.
Lady Guinevere stands near the turnbuckles as her entrance music rises through the Coliseum. She steps toward the centre, rolls her shoulders, and looks briefly toward the entrance through which King Arthur departed.
Then she turns her attention to the ramp.
Julian Ward: “Lady Guinevere was standing beside Sir Lancelot when this match was ordered. She now finds herself representing Camelot against a woman who witnessed the commissioner bow to its king.”
Brick Brody: “And she’d better leave everything else in that corner. Whatever she thinks of Regina, whatever she thinks of the commissioner, none of it will stop Lark of Sherwood from trying to drive her through this canvas.”
The entrance lighting changes.
Forest-green light falls across the stage as Lark of Sherwood emerges.
She pauses at the top of the ramp, looking directly toward the ring.
There is no wave to the audience. No attempt to soften the anger in her expression.
She walks purposefully down the aisle, touches the apron, and pulls herself onto the edge of the ring. Before entering, she notices Merlin standing beside the steps.
The sorcerer returns her stare without speaking.
Lark of Sherwood steps through the ropes.
Julian Ward: “Lark of Sherwood has made her way down from the rafters to meet this assignment. The challenge now is to turn that anger into disciplined competition.”
Brick Brody: “Anger’s useful when you put it behind a blow. It becomes a problem when you stop watching the person across from you. And she’s got Merlin to keep track of as well.”
At the centre of the ring, Louie Linville raises his microphone.
Louie Linville: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall.”
He extends a hand toward the royal corner.
Louie Linville: “Introducing first, accompanied by Merlin… representing Camelot… Lady Guinevere!”
The response is sharply divided, with the hostility toward the royal court overwhelming the scattered applause.
Lady Guinevere raises her chin but offers no gesture toward the crowd.
Louie Linville turns.
Louie Linville: “And her opponent… representing the Merry Band… Lark of Sherwood!”
The Coliseum answers with a sustained cheer.
Lark of Sherwood steps forward, eyes fixed upon her opponent.
Louie Linville: “Your referee for this contest… ‘Honest’ Abe.”
The referee checks both competitors, then motions Merlin away from the ropes.
Lady Guinevere and Lark of Sherwood approach the centre.
The bell sounds.
Minute 1
Lady Guinevere wins the first struggle for position, circling behind Lark of Sherwood and closing both arms around her waist. She lowers her hips, drives upward, and launches Lark of Sherwood backward with a release German suplex.
Lark of Sherwood lands across her shoulders and rolls toward the ropes.
Lady Guinevere follows, reaching to pull her upright, but Lark of Sherwood braces herself and works beneath the approaching arm. With a sharp effort, she lifts Lady Guinevere across her shoulders.
She throws the legs outward, catches the head, and drops into a fireman’s carry cutter.
Both women remain down briefly after the exchange.
Julian Ward: “An immediate exchange of heavy offence. Lady Guinevere secured the first opening, but her pursuit brought her directly into that cutter.”
Brick Brody: “She threw her well and followed too loosely. If you’re going to drag somebody back up, control the head before they get underneath you.”
Minute 2
Lark of Sherwood reaches her feet first.
She stays close as Lady Guinevere rises, preventing her from finding room to reset. One arm threads between the legs while the other controls the upper body.
Lady Guinevere tries to shift her weight backward.
Lark of Sherwood adjusts beneath her, lifts her onto her shoulders again, and delivers a second fireman’s carry cutter.
Lady Guinevere rolls onto her side, one hand pressed against her jaw.
At ringside, Merlin moves closer to the corner.
Julian Ward: “A second consecutive cutter, and this time Lady Guinevere has no answering offence. Lark of Sherwood is establishing control through repeated attacks to the head and neck.”
Brick Brody: “Keep using it until she stops you. There’s no prize for variety when you’ve found something that hurts.”
Minute 3
As Lark of Sherwood reaches for another lift, Lady Guinevere plants her feet and forces her opponent forward.
She traps the head between her thighs, closes her grip around the waist, and lifts.
A sit-out piledriver drives Lark of Sherwood into the canvas.
The impact leaves Lark of Sherwood folded on her side while Lady Guinevere sits catching her breath.
That recovery costs her time.
When she draws Lark of Sherwood upright again, the Sherwood wrestler struggles beneath her centre of gravity, muscles her across the shoulders, and falls into another fireman’s carry cutter.
Lady Guinevere lands hard, unable to consolidate the opening.
Julian Ward: “The piledriver gave Lady Guinevere a substantial opportunity, but the earlier punishment slowed her follow-up. Lark of Sherwood has again found the strength to lift her.”
Brick Brody: “That’s what damage does. You land something vicious, then spend the next few seconds trying to clear your own head. She needed those seconds to keep pressing.”
Minute 4
Lady Guinevere rolls beneath the bottom rope to create distance.
Lark of Sherwood follows her movement from inside the ring, climbs to the upper turnbuckle, and launches toward the floor with a diving crossbody.
Lady Guinevere moves out of the flight path.
Lark of Sherwood crashes onto the ringside padding and rolls onto her knees, clutching her midsection.
With ‘Honest’ Abe ordering the action back inside, Lady Guinevere hauls her opponent up and pushes her beneath the bottom rope.
She follows immediately.
Before Lark of Sherwood can recover, Lady Guinevere hooks both arms, lifts, and drives her down with a double underhook powerbomb.
Julian Ward: “The crossbody has backfired badly. Lady Guinevere avoided the dive, returned the contest to the ring, and converted that mistake into a powerbomb.”
Brick Brody: “That’s the price of chasing somebody through the air. Once you leave those ropes, you don’t get to change your mind.”
Minute 5
At ringside, Merlin lifts one hand.
His fingers close slowly as he murmurs an incantation.
A faint glow gathers around his palm.
Inside the ring, Lady Guinevere’s breathing steadies. She straightens, the strain in her shoulders easing beneath the spell of rejuvenation.
Lark of Sherwood does not allow her time to exploit it.
She slips behind Lady Guinevere, traps both arms in a double chickenwing, and lifts before driving her forward into a facebuster.
Merlin’s hand lowers.
Julian Ward: “Merlin has intervened with a rejuvenation spell, but Lark of Sherwood answers before Lady Guinevere can take advantage. Both arms were trapped on that landing.”
Brick Brody: “The old man can put some strength back into her. He can’t make her watch her back. She still has to do that herself.”
Minute 6
Lady Guinevere catches Lark of Sherwood approaching and clamps on a front facelock.
She snaps backward into a DDT.
Lark of Sherwood recoils onto her side, then slowly pushes herself to one knee.
Lady Guinevere takes hold of her again, attempting to keep her bent forward.
Lark of Sherwood braces against her opponent’s arms and drives a short headbutt into her face.
Lady Guinevere releases her grip and staggers back.
Lark of Sherwood remains on one knee, gathering herself.
Julian Ward: “A snap DDT from Lady Guinevere, followed by a close-range headbutt that breaks her control. Neither woman is escaping these exchanges without further damage.”
Brick Brody: “That headbutt wasn’t pretty. It was necessary. When somebody keeps taking hold of your head, give them a reason to stop reaching.”
Minute 7
Lark of Sherwood closes the distance and catches Lady Guinevere’s head, turning her body to initiate a rolling cutter.
Lady Guinevere widens her stance.
She controls the attacking wrist and refuses to turn with her opponent, keeping her balance as Lark of Sherwood tries to pull her through.
The grip loosens.
Lady Guinevere strips the arm away and backs clear.
Lark of Sherwood resets without completing the move.
Julian Ward: “A disciplined defensive adjustment. Lady Guinevere stopped the rotation before the rolling cutter could develop.”
Brick Brody: “She’s finally making her work for that head. Keep your feet beneath you and fight the grip early. Once you’re turning, you’re already in trouble.”
Minute 8
Lady Guinevere steps in as Lark of Sherwood reaches forward.
She pulls her into another front facelock and delivers a sharp snap DDT.
The landing leaves Lark of Sherwood motionless for a moment before she begins working back toward her knees.
Lady Guinevere rises slowly and pulls her opponent up.
Lark of Sherwood suddenly catches her bent forward, sets her grip, and throws herself through the rotation of the Sherwood Destroyer.
Lady Guinevere is driven into the canvas.
Lark of Sherwood falls beside her, too battered to follow immediately.
Julian Ward: “The Sherwood Destroyer answers another DDT. Lark of Sherwood has created an opening, but she is having to recover from the move she received before she can use it.”
Brick Brody: “They’re both spending themselves to land these shots. Somebody has to stay on top afterward, or all this punishment just buys another scramble off the floor.”
Minute 9
Merlin steps toward the apron.
His eyes settle upon Lark of Sherwood.
He speaks under his breath, extending two fingers toward her as the light near his hand darkens.
Inside the ropes, Lark of Sherwood catches Lady Guinevere before she can fully straighten and delivers another Sherwood Destroyer.
The crowd rises.
But as Lark of Sherwood attempts to follow, her balance falters.
She reaches for the canvas.
Her limbs respond slowly, and she retreats onto one knee rather than attempting a cover.
Merlin watches without expression.
Julian Ward: “Another Destroyer, but something has changed in Lark of Sherwood’s movement. Merlin directed that curse toward her just before the exchange.”
Brick Brody: “She got the move through. Now look at her trying to get up. That’s a useful piece of work from the corner—leave her strong enough to know what she wants to do and too slow to do it.”
Minute 10
Lark of Sherwood backs toward the ropes, guarding herself as Lady Guinevere slowly regains her footing.
Neither woman commits to an attack.
At ringside, Merlin draws a crystal ball into view and peers into its clouded surface.
His gaze shifts from the sphere to the ring.
He gives Lady Guinevere a small, deliberate gesture, directing her attention toward her opponent’s guarded posture.
Lark of Sherwood keeps her hands raised, unable to reclaim the initiative.
The minute passes in a tense reset.
Julian Ward: “Merlin is consulting the crystal ball while Lark of Sherwood remains on the defensive. No meaningful attack in this passage, but the pause allows Lady Guinevere to recover from those Destroyers.”
Brick Brody: “And she needed it. Don’t rush just because the other woman looks vulnerable. Get your own legs steady, then go after hers.”
Minute 11
Lady Guinevere advances.
Lark of Sherwood tries to keep her at arm’s length, but her reactions remain laboured.
Lady Guinevere closes through the guard, secures her opponent across her back, and controls the head and leg.
She drops into an Air Raid Crash.
Lark of Sherwood strikes the canvas hard and rolls onto her back.
Lady Guinevere stays nearby, breathing heavily but now dictating the pace.
Julian Ward: “The Air Raid Crash lands cleanly. Lark of Sherwood could not create enough separation to prevent the lift.”
Brick Brody: “That’s where the waiting pays off. Lady Guinevere got herself together, walked through the guard, and made the next move count.”
Minute 12
Lady Guinevere pulls Lark of Sherwood upright.
She turns alongside her, secures the head, and twists into a swinging neckbreaker.
The impact leaves Lark of Sherwood flat on the canvas.
Lady Guinevere rolls across her chest and hooks a leg.
‘Honest’ Abe drops into position.
One—
Lark of Sherwood drives a shoulder upward.
Lady Guinevere sits back, visibly frustrated by the early escape.
Lark of Sherwood rolls away, shaking feeling back into her arms.
Julian Ward: “Only a count of one. After several minutes spent defending herself, Lark of Sherwood has produced a forceful escape.”
Brick Brody: “Good. Make her understand there’s more work to do. But kicking out isn’t enough—she needs to stop letting Lady Guinevere choose every exchange.”
Minute 13
Lark of Sherwood regains her feet and moves forward, springing into a single-leg dropkick.
Lady Guinevere turns out of its path and brushes the extended leg aside.
Lark of Sherwood lands awkwardly and starts to rise.
Lady Guinevere catches her bent forward, hooks both arms, and lifts her into another double underhook powerbomb.
The canvas shudders beneath the landing.
Lark of Sherwood arches her back and rolls onto her side.
Julian Ward: “Lark of Sherwood attempted to restore some distance with the dropkick, but Lady Guinevere read it and converted the miss into another powerbomb.”
Brick Brody: “She came forward before she had her feet properly back under her. Lady Guinevere didn’t have to chase anything. The opening landed right in front of her.”
Minute 14
Both women take time to reset.
Lady Guinevere approaches carefully, mindful of the counters that punished her earlier.
She draws Lark of Sherwood into a front facelock and hooks one leg.
With a measured lift, she raises her into a delayed fisherman suplex.
She holds her suspended for a moment.
Then she falls backward, driving Lark of Sherwood into the mat and releasing the leg on impact.
Lark of Sherwood curls inward, clutching her lower back.
Julian Ward: “The delayed fisherman suplex extends Lady Guinevere’s control. She took time to secure both the head and leg before lifting.”
Brick Brody: “That’s better than grabbing and hoping. Tie her up properly, make her carry her own weight in the air, then bring it all down.”
Minute 15
Lady Guinevere follows with another snap DDT, driving Lark of Sherwood down before she can stand fully upright.
She remains on one knee afterward, taking several breaths.
When she reaches to continue, Lark of Sherwood catches her arm and struggles beneath her.
The lift is slower now.
Her knees bend under the weight, but she steadies herself, turns, and delivers a fireman’s carry cutter.
Lady Guinevere rolls away, one hand against the side of her head.
Julian Ward: “Lark of Sherwood returns to the move that served her early. The lift required considerably more effort, but the cutter has finally interrupted this sustained pressure.”
Brick Brody: “She remembered what worked. Now she needs to remember what happened afterward—don’t let Lady Guinevere get comfortable and start dropping her again.”
Minute 16
Lark of Sherwood reaches for the rolling cutter.
This time, Lady Guinevere does more than resist.
She turns against the grip, pulls her head free, and catches Lark of Sherwood in a front facelock.
Lark of Sherwood braces a hand against her opponent’s hip, trying to block the drop.
Lady Guinevere snaps backward anyway.
The DDT lands.
She immediately turns into a cover and hooks the leg.
One.
Two—
Lark of Sherwood raises her shoulder.
Lady Guinevere looks toward ‘Honest’ Abe, who confirms the two-count.
Julian Ward: “A decisive reversal into the DDT, and a much closer cover than the first. Lark of Sherwood tried to brace against the move but could not prevent it.”
Brick Brody: “And Lady Guinevere finally covered before giving her time to recover. That’s the difference. Keep doing that and those escapes get harder.”
Minute 17
Lady Guinevere takes hold for another delayed fisherman suplex.
Before she can lift, Lark of Sherwood frees the hooked leg and turns out of the facelock.
She moves behind Lady Guinevere, attempting to secure the double chickenwing.
One arm is trapped.
As Lark of Sherwood reaches for the second, Lady Guinevere pulls her elbow tight to her side, lowers her weight, and prevents the full hold.
She works the trapped arm free.
The two separate without either move landing.
Julian Ward: “Both women have anticipated the next attack. Lark of Sherwood escaped the suplex, but Lady Guinevere denied the second arm needed for the facebuster.”
Brick Brody: “That’s fighting tired without fighting stupid. Neither had the position she needed, and neither gave it away for free.”
Minute 18
Lady Guinevere gains the next opening, forcing Lark of Sherwood forward and trapping both arms.
Another double underhook powerbomb drives her into the canvas.
Lady Guinevere remains standing over her for a moment, shoulders rising and falling.
She reaches down.
Lark of Sherwood struggles up beneath her grip, catches Lady Guinevere bent forward, and commits to the Sherwood Destroyer.
The move lands.
This time, Lark of Sherwood crawls directly into the cover.
One.
Two—
Lady Guinevere kicks out.
Lark of Sherwood remains beside her, head lowered as she draws breath.
Julian Ward: “The Destroyer produces Lark of Sherwood’s first cover, but Lady Guinevere escapes at two. The powerbomb she received moments earlier made the follow-up a difficult crawl.”
Brick Brody: “She got there, but she had almost nothing left to hold her down with. Landing the move and keeping somebody beaten are two different jobs.”
Minute 19
Lark of Sherwood stays close.
As Lady Guinevere rises, she moves behind her and secures one arm, then the other.
Lady Guinevere tries to plant her feet and pull an elbow free.
Lark of Sherwood keeps the double chickenwing locked.
She lifts and drives Lady Guinevere forward into the facebuster.
The crowd responds as Lark of Sherwood pushes herself onto her knees beside her fallen opponent.
At ringside, Merlin moves nearer the apron.
Julian Ward: “This time the double chickenwing is complete. Lady Guinevere fought the grip but could not break it, and Lark of Sherwood has landed consecutive attacks.”
Brick Brody: “Now she’s finally staying with her. Don’t let go of the advantage because the crowd likes what you’ve done. Give them something worse to look at.”
Minute 20
Merlin reaches into his robes.
As Lark of Sherwood brings Lady Guinevere upright, he throws a pinch of flash powder into the air near the apron.
A sudden flare draws Lark of Sherwood’s eyes toward the corner.
She hesitates, blinking through the burst of light.
But when Lady Guinevere moves toward her, Lark of Sherwood catches her, sets her feet, and delivers another Sherwood Destroyer.
She drops across her opponent and gathers a leg.
‘Honest’ Abe counts.
One—
Lady Guinevere kicks free.
Lark of Sherwood looks toward the referee, then toward Merlin.
The sorcerer has already lowered his hands.
Julian Ward: “The flash powder interrupted her concentration, but Lark of Sherwood still delivered the Destroyer. Lady Guinevere escapes at one this time.”
Brick Brody: “The distraction didn’t stop the move. It did make her hesitate, and she’s still looking at Merlin now. She needs to keep her eyes on the woman she’s trying to pin.”
Minute 21
Lady Guinevere rises and immediately closes the distance.
She attempts to position Lark of Sherwood for another Air Raid Crash.
Lark of Sherwood recognises the lift.
She shifts her weight downward, loosens the grip controlling her leg, and slides free before Lady Guinevere can secure her across her back.
She retreats one step, keeping her hands raised.
Lady Guinevere turns to face her.
Neither has room for a clean follow-up.
Julian Ward: “Lark of Sherwood prevents the Air Raid Crash before the position is secured. After more than twenty minutes, she is still identifying the danger early enough to escape.”
Brick Brody: “She’d better. Taking another one of those now could finish her. That was survival, and there’s nothing wrong with it.”
Minute 22
Lady Guinevere reaches toward the upper body.
Lark of Sherwood raises her arms to protect her head and block another front facelock.
Lady Guinevere changes direction.
She steps around the guard, closes both arms around the waist from behind, and pulls Lark of Sherwood away from the ropes.
Lark of Sherwood reaches for the clasp.
Too late.
Lady Guinevere drives through her legs and launches her backward with a release German suplex.
Lark of Sherwood lands heavily across her shoulders and upper back.
She rolls onto her back, arms falling outward.
Lady Guinevere turns, crawls across the short distance, and presses her shoulders down while hooking a leg.
‘Honest’ Abe slides into position.
One.
Two.
Three.
The bell rings.
Julian Ward: “The release German suplex ends it. Lady Guinevere changed the point of attack, secured the waist, and followed immediately into the winning cover.”
Brick Brody: “She went back to the first thing she hurt her with. Only this time, after everything else Lark of Sherwood had taken, there wasn’t another cutter waiting on the other side.”
Lady Guinevere releases the leg and sits beside her opponent.
Her chest rises and falls heavily.
Lark of Sherwood rolls onto her side, one arm drawn across the back of her neck.
‘Honest’ Abe checks her before returning to the winner.
Louie Linville steps forward with the microphone.
Louie Linville: “Ladies and gentlemen, your winner, by pinfall… Lady Guinevere!”
The referee raises her hand.
Merlin climbs the steps and enters the ring.
He approaches with quiet satisfaction, but Lady Guinevere continues looking toward Lark of Sherwood, who is slowly drawing herself toward the ropes.
There is no broad celebration.
Lady Guinevere lowers her arm.
Merlin gestures toward the entrance.
After another moment, she turns to leave.
Julian Ward: “Lady Guinevere has won the contest the commissioner assigned her. Lark of Sherwood endured repeated attacks and several interventions from Merlin, but the final suplex left her unable to escape.”
Brick Brody: “Merlin gave his wrestler help, and she stayed in the fight long enough to use it. Lark of Sherwood landed plenty of punishment. She just couldn’t make any of it the last word.”
Julian Ward: “The first result under Elias Coldmere’s declared order goes to Camelot. For the Merry Band, the evening continues with their leader imprisoned and three more members still required to face the Shadow Court.”
RESULT: LADY GUINEVERE DEFEATS LARK OF SHERWOOD VIA PINFALL FOLLOWING A RELEASE GERMAN SUPLEX IN THE 22ND MINUTE.
The camera moves backstage.
Beyond a closed dressing-room door, the noise of the Coliseum is reduced to a distant, uneven rumble.
Inside, Mordred sits on the edge of a wooden bench, a roll of wrist tape resting beside him.
Blood-Moon Warden stands before a wall-mounted monitor.
The opening confrontation is playing again.
On the screen, Elias Coldmere faces King Arthur.
His voice fills the otherwise quiet room.
Elias Coldmere: “My Majesty.”
The commissioner bows.
Blood-Moon Warden’s jaw tightens.
Beside the bench, Mordred picks up the remote and pauses the recording.
The image holds on the commissioner’s lowered head.
For several seconds, neither man speaks.
Then Mordred looks up.
Mordred: “Did you see what I saw?”
Blood-Moon Warden keeps his eyes on the screen.
Blood-Moon Warden: “Yes.”
He folds his arms, then lets them fall again, too restless to remain still.
Blood-Moon Warden: “By waiting, we were able to see how deep the corruption flows.”
He turns toward Mordred.
Blood-Moon Warden: “I thought Coldmere was going down there to put an end to it.”
Mordred: “So did the men who followed him.”
Blood-Moon Warden looks back at the frozen image.
Blood-Moon Warden: “He brought them with him. Made certain they were standing close enough to watch.”
Mordred: “And close enough to be struck when they objected.”
Blood-Moon Warden takes a slow breath.
Blood-Moon Warden: “You were right to stop me on Sunday.”
The admission does not come easily.
Blood-Moon Warden: “I would have reached the ring. Perhaps I would even have reached Robin.”
He pauses.
Blood-Moon Warden: “I would not have got him out.”
Mordred lowers the remote slightly.
Mordred: “You would have fought until they put you beside him.”
Blood-Moon Warden: “And he is still there.”
There is no accusation in the words. Only an urgency neither man can dismiss.
Mordred: “I know.”
He lets the silence remain for a moment before turning back to the monitor.
Mordred: “But look again.”
The recording moves backward.
King Arthur’s court returns to its places around the ring.
Mordred stops the image on Sir Lancelot and Lady Guinevere, standing together in the corner.
Mordred: “There.”
Blood-Moon Warden steps closer.
Mordred: “Everyone is watching the man with the microphone. Watch the people who are saying nothing.”
The recording resumes without sound.
Sir Lancelot studies Severin Crowne.
Beside him, Lady Guinevere watches Regina lean against King Arthur.
Blood-Moon Warden: “They are not pleased.”
Mordred: “No.”
He pauses the image again.
Mordred: “Lancelot questioned the imprisonment on Sunday. Tonight he stood through that announcement without once looking proud of the company he was keeping.”
Blood-Moon Warden: “He still stood there.”
Mordred: “Yes. We should remember that too.”
Blood-Moon Warden studies Lady Guinevere’s expression.
Blood-Moon Warden: “And her anger may have more to do with Regina than with Robin.”
Mordred nods.
Mordred: “It may.”
“Displeasure is not a promise. I am not suggesting we trust either of them because we dislike the same sight.”
He advances the recording.
The confrontation at ringside begins.
Friar Tuck and Little John surge toward the apron.
The defenders close.
Mordred slows the footage.
Sir Agravaine seizes Friar Tuck. Sheriff of Nottingham strikes him. The Virtuous Blades drive Little John back.
At the edge of the gathering stands The Huntsman.
Mordred: “Watch him.”
Blood-Moon Warden leans forward.
The hunter moves with the others, then stops short of joining the blows.
His attention shifts toward Elias Coldmere.
Mordred pauses the picture.
Blood-Moon Warden: “He could have joined in.”
Mordred: “He chose not to.”
Blood-Moon Warden: “He did not stop them either.”
Mordred: “No.”
He sets the remote down.
Mordred: “But Arthur has gathered people around him and mistaken their presence for agreement.”
“Some want what he offers. Some obey because they have always obeyed.”
His eyes return to the monitor.
Mordred: “And some are beginning to discover what those orders require of them.”
Blood-Moon Warden considers the three faces they have watched.
Blood-Moon Warden: “You think they can be reached.”
Mordred: “I think there are opportunities we can use.”
“Quietly. Carefully. Without asking a question in front of someone who would report the answer.”
The dressing room falls silent.
Outside, footsteps pass the door and continue down the corridor.
Both men wait until they fade.
Blood-Moon Warden: “Where do we begin?”
Mordred picks up the wrist tape.
He draws it firmly around his hand.
Mordred: “With what is already in front of us.”
“Tonight, the Sheriff of Nottingham has to meet me in the ring.”
He smooths the tape across his wrist.
Mordred: “He can stand beneath Arthur’s crown all evening. When the bell sounds, he still has a championship to defend.”
Blood-Moon Warden: “And a court that may decide to help him defend it.”
Mordred looks up.
Mordred: “Then I will go in expecting that.”
He tears the tape and presses the end into place.
Mordred: “I intend to take the Eternal Flame Championship from him. But whatever happens in that match, we do not lose sight of Robin.”
Blood-Moon Warden: “We won’t.”
Mordred rises.
Mordred: “First, the Sheriff.”
“Then we begin making plans to get Robin Hood out.”
Blood-Moon Warden holds his gaze.
The anger remains, but he is listening now.
Mordred: “We find out where he is being held. Who watches him. Who can reach him.”
“And we make certain that when we move, we can bring him home.”
Blood-Moon Warden gives a single, deliberate nod.
Mordred reaches for the remote and switches off the monitor.
The last image to disappear is The Huntsman, standing apart from the assault.
The camera holds briefly on the two men.
Then fades.
The cameras return to the arena.
A low haze drifts across the entrance stage. Pale light cuts through it as Sandman emerges, pausing beneath the archway.
He looks toward the ring, then begins his descent.
His pace is deliberate. At the foot of the ramp, he stops briefly, studying the canvas before climbing the steps and passing between the ropes.
Julian Ward: “Our next contest brings together two men with considerable knowledge of one another. In their nine previous singles encounters, Sinbad holds a six-to-three advantage over Sandman.”
Brick Brody: “Nine matches means there’s very little left to hide. Sandman knows what has beaten him, and Sinbad knows he can do it again. That can get into a man’s head before anybody touches him.”
Sandman walks toward his corner and grips the top rope with both hands.
Julian Ward: “Their recent records also favour Sinbad. Over the last ninety days, he has gone seven-and-one. Sandman comes into tonight at five-and-five. Both are seeking a return to championship contention.”
Brick Brody: “Five-and-five keeps you occupied. Seven-and-one makes champions start watching your matches. If Sandman wants their attention, beating this particular opponent would be a good way to get it.”
The entrance music changes.
Sinbad steps onto the stage and surveys the Coliseum.
He moves down the ramp with purpose, eyes settling on Sandman as he approaches ringside. He climbs onto the apron, steps through the ropes, and advances far enough for ‘Honest’ Abe to move between them.
Neither competitor offers a hand.
Sinbad retreats to his corner, rolling his shoulders.
Julian Ward: “This is an opportunity to strengthen a claim for either man. No championship opportunity has been promised, but another victory over an established rival would carry weight.”
Brick Brody: “Then make it convincing. Don’t leave the people making those decisions searching for a reason to overlook you.”
Louie Linville stands at the centre of the ring.
Louie Linville: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall.”
He gestures toward the first corner.
Louie Linville: “Introducing first… Sandman!”
Sandman releases the ropes and steps forward once, his expression fixed.
Louie Linville turns toward the opposite corner.
Louie Linville: “And his opponent… Sinbad!”
Sinbad raises one arm, then lowers it as his attention returns to the man across the ring.
Louie Linville: “Your referee… ‘Honest’ Abe.”
The announcer withdraws.
The referee completes his checks and calls for the bell.
Minute 1
Sandman circles behind Sinbad during the opening struggle and draws an arm beneath his chin.
He closes the sleeper, pulling Sinbad backward against his chest.
‘Honest’ Abe moves alongside them.
Sinbad refuses to submit. He pulls at the locking arm, turns his shoulders into the opening, and works his head free.
Before Sandman can reset, Sinbad catches him in an inverted facelock and drops his back across a bent knee.
Sandman rolls away, reaching toward his spine.
Julian Ward: “Sandman went directly to the sleeper, but Sinbad remained composed and answered with an inverted facelock backbreaker. Their familiarity is apparent from the opening exchange.”
Brick Brody: “He didn’t panic when that arm went around his neck. He fought the grip, got loose, and made Sandman pay for standing behind him.”
Minute 2
Both men approach cautiously.
Sandman breaks the pause with a standing clothesline, driving his arm across Sinbad’s upper chest and knocking him onto his back.
He follows as Sinbad rises.
Sinbad turns alongside him, catches the head from behind, and bends Sandman backward into another inverted facelock backbreaker.
The impact sends Sandman down to one knee before he topples onto his side.
Julian Ward: “Another backbreaker answers the clothesline. Sinbad has already returned twice to the same area.”
Brick Brody: “Good. Make that back hurt every time Sandman lifts, turns, or tries to squeeze. You don’t need to find a new weakness when the first one is still available.”
Minute 3
Sandman pushes upright and holds his ground.
As Sinbad closes, Sandman drives a front kick into his midsection.
Sinbad folds forward and retreats a step.
Sandman follows without rushing, keeping himself between his opponent and the centre of the ring.
Sinbad raises his guard but offers no immediate answer.
Julian Ward: “The front kick interrupts Sinbad’s approach and gives Sandman a little control over the distance. He needed to stop those close-range exchanges.”
Brick Brody: “Put a boot into the stomach and make him come forward more carefully. It’s a lot harder to grab somebody’s head when you’re trying to catch your breath.”
Minute 4
Sinbad steadies himself and steps back into range.
He turns sharply, bringing a discus back elbow across the side of Sandman’s head.
Sandman staggers toward the ropes.
Sinbad follows far enough to keep him from settling, while ‘Honest’ Abe watches their positioning.
Sandman touches his jaw and moves away from the rope line.
Julian Ward: “The discus back elbow brings Sinbad back into control. He closed the distance before Sandman could establish another kick.”
Brick Brody: “And he put his whole body behind it. You want somebody to stop dictating the distance? Hit him hard enough that he forgets where he’s standing.”
Minute 5
Sinbad takes hold of Sandman’s wrist.
Sandman tries to pull free and raises his opposite forearm across his chest.
Sinbad keeps the wrist, draws him forward, and delivers a short-arm lariat through the attempted guard.
Sandman drops onto his back.
Sinbad releases the arm and stands over him, breathing steadily.
Julian Ward: “Sandman saw the lariat coming but could not break the wrist control. That left him unable to move clear of the strike.”
Brick Brody: “Knowing what’s coming doesn’t help if the other man has you by the arm. Break the grip first. Otherwise, you’re waiting to get hit.”
Minute 6
Sandman rises with his hands extended, trying to keep Sinbad away from his head.
Sinbad catches the wrist again.
This time, Sandman turns his shoulder and tries to brace against the pull.
Sinbad steps closer, shortens the distance, and drives another short-arm lariat across his upper chest.
Sandman falls heavily and rolls onto one elbow.
Julian Ward: “A second short-arm lariat. Sandman adjusted his stance, but Sinbad moved inside that adjustment and completed the attack.”
Brick Brody: “He’s making him defend the same problem and showing him that his answer isn’t good enough. That wears on a man.”
Minute 7
Sinbad reaches down and brings Sandman upright.
He secures the inverted facelock.
Sandman grabs at the controlling arm and attempts to turn inward, but Sinbad tightens the hold and drops him across the knee.
Another backbreaker lands.
Sinbad lowers him to the canvas and covers.
One—
Sandman kicks out.
Sinbad rises onto one knee, watching his opponent roll away.
Julian Ward: “The first cover produces only a count of one. Sinbad has controlled the last several minutes, but Sandman still has considerable resistance.”
Brick Brody: “Then keep hurting him. A one-count tells you the job isn’t finished. It doesn’t mean the work you’ve done has disappeared.”
Minute 8
As Sinbad reaches to continue, Sandman gets beneath him.
He lifts Sinbad across his shoulders, steadies his footing, and throws him forward into the rising knee.
Go to Sleep.
Sinbad collapses onto the canvas.
Sandman drops to one knee, a hand briefly returning to his lower back before he moves closer to his fallen opponent.
Julian Ward: “Go to Sleep changes the match. Sandman found the lift despite the repeated attacks to his back.”
Brick Brody: “And that’s why you don’t get comfortable after a string of good minutes. Sinbad reached in and found himself carried straight into a knee.”
Minute 9
Sandman pulls Sinbad into a seated position and slips behind him.
The sleeper closes again.
Sinbad reaches for the forearm beneath his chin, his boots pushing against the canvas as Sandman leans his weight forward.
‘Honest’ Abe asks for a response.
Sinbad shakes his head and keeps working at the grip. He gradually turns onto one knee, creating enough room to loosen the hold before the minute ends.
Julian Ward: “The sleeper follows the knee strike, forcing Sinbad to defend while still recovering. He has refused the submission and is working himself toward a stronger position.”
Brick Brody: “That’s the right sequence from Sandman. Rattle the head, then make him fight for every breath. Don’t give him a quiet moment to clear it.”
Minute 10
Sandman changes his grip and attempts to lift Sinbad into a backbreaker.
Sinbad lowers his weight and hooks a leg around Sandman’s, preventing a stable lift.
Sandman tries to adjust.
Sinbad keeps his feet beneath him, strips away the upper-body grip, and steps free.
The backbreaker never lands.
Julian Ward: “A necessary defensive stop from Sinbad. He denied the lift before Sandman could position him across the knee.”
Brick Brody: “He needed something that didn’t involve landing on his back again. Get your feet planted and make the other man carry more than he can manage.”
Minute 11
Sandman catches Sinbad in close, gathers him into a cradle, and throws him over with a cradle suplex.
Sinbad lands hard and rolls toward the corner.
When Sandman follows, Sinbad uses the ropes to steady himself, catches an inverted facelock, and swings outward into an inverted tornado DDT.
Sandman strikes the canvas and remains down.
Sinbad sits beside him, drawing a long breath before trying to rise.
Julian Ward: “The cradle suplex gave Sandman another opening, but Sinbad used the corner to deliver the inverted tornado DDT. Both men continue to find answers after taking substantial punishment.”
Brick Brody: “And both keep following too close when they think they’ve got the other one hurt. After nine matches, they ought to know better.”
Minute 12
Sandman reaches his feet as Sinbad moves toward him.
A front kick lands squarely in Sinbad’s abdomen.
Sinbad bends forward, his advance stopped.
Sandman steps away from the corner and draws the action back toward open canvas, keeping his opponent in front of him.
Julian Ward: “Another front kick buys Sandman the space to leave the corner. He is denying Sinbad the position that enabled the previous DDT.”
Brick Brody: “Simple and sensible. Make him hurt, then make him follow you somewhere he can’t use those ropes.”
Minute 13
Sandman moves around the bent Sinbad and reaches for the sleeper.
Sinbad catches the wrist before the hold closes, trying to keep the forearm away from his neck.
Sandman pulls through the resistance and locks his hands into position.
Sinbad’s knees bend under the pressure.
He refuses to submit, maintaining a grip on the arm and slowly turning his shoulders until he can begin prying the hold apart.
Julian Ward: “Sinbad tried to prevent the sleeper at the wrist, but Sandman secured it anyway. Each application requires another sustained effort to escape.”
Brick Brody: “That’s why you keep going back to it. He may get loose six times. The seventh might be the one where his arms have nothing left.”
Minute 14
Sinbad works free and turns to face Sandman.
He delivers an open-hand chop across the chest.
Then another.
The strikes force Sandman backward, his shoulders drawing inward as Sinbad continues to cut off his approach.
The final chop leaves Sandman against the ropes, chest reddening.
Julian Ward: “Sinbad creates separation with those chops. He needed to face Sandman and prevent another immediate attempt from behind.”
Brick Brody: “Make the man think about his own pain for a while. It’s hard to settle into another hold when your chest feels like it’s been split open.”
Minute 15
Sandman steps away from the ropes and drives a front kick into Sinbad’s midsection.
Sinbad folds but remains close enough to catch his wrist.
As Sandman tries to pull away, Sinbad draws him back into a short-arm lariat.
Sandman hits the canvas.
Sinbad takes a step backward, one hand pressed against his stomach.
Julian Ward: “Both attacks land. Sandman stopped the initial approach, but Sinbad retained contact and turned that into another lariat.”
Brick Brody: “He took the kick and kept his hands working. Sometimes you accept one shot because you know you can give back something worse.”
Minute 16
Sandman rises and meets Sinbad at close range.
He gets underneath him, lifts him across his shoulders, and delivers another Go to Sleep.
Sinbad falls to his knees before tipping onto his side.
Sandman pauses to steady his back, then reaches to bring him up.
Still unsteady, Sinbad fires an open-hand chop into his chest.
A second chop follows, forcing Sandman to release him.
Julian Ward: “A second Go to Sleep, but Sandman cannot maintain his grip afterward. Sinbad answers with chops to buy himself room.”
Brick Brody: “Those backbreakers are still collecting their debt. Sandman can lift him, but every lift costs him time afterward.”
Minute 17
Sinbad moves forward before Sandman can settle.
He leaps into a double knee strike.
Sandman brings both forearms up, trying to shield his upper body, but the impact drives through the guard and knocks him backward to the mat.
Sinbad lands and catches his balance.
Sandman rolls onto his side, arms drawn across his chest.
Julian Ward: “The double knee strike lands through the attempted defence. Sinbad has followed his escape with a substantial attack.”
Brick Brody: “That’s how you make room for yourself. Don’t just get away—leave the other man on the floor so he can’t come straight after you.”
Minute 18
Sandman recovers enough to catch Sinbad approaching.
He takes control of the head, runs forward, and drives him face-first into the canvas with a running bulldog.
Both men rise slowly.
Sandman reaches for another grip, but Sinbad captures the wrist and pulls him into a short-arm lariat.
The strike puts Sandman back down.
Sinbad drops to one knee beside him.
Julian Ward: “The bulldog and lariat leave them both struggling to sustain momentum. Each successful attack is being followed by another costly exchange.”
Brick Brody: “Neither is fresh enough to smother the answer. They hurt each other, take a breath, and that breath gives the other man his chance.”
Minute 19
Sandman gets behind Sinbad as they return to their feet.
He closes the sleeper and draws his opponent toward the centre.
Sinbad grips the forearm with both hands.
His movements slow, but he continues to answer ‘Honest’ Abe, refusing to surrender.
He widens his stance and works at the clasp until Sandman has to readjust.
Julian Ward: “Another sustained sleeper. Sinbad remains responsive, but this repeated effort to escape is placing a considerable demand on him.”
Brick Brody: “And Sandman knows it. He doesn’t need a new trick. He needs that grip to last a little longer than it did before.”
Minute 20
As the sleeper loosens, Sandman changes position and attempts to raise Sinbad onto his shoulders.
Sinbad recognises the Go to Sleep.
He shifts his weight, slips down behind Sandman, and pushes clear before the knee can come into play.
Sandman turns.
Sinbad remains upright, breathing heavily but beyond his reach.
Julian Ward: “Sinbad prevents a third Go to Sleep. He moved during the lift rather than waiting until Sandman had him balanced.”
Brick Brody: “He’s already felt that knee twice. A third one might finish the argument. That was a good time to remember how to get out.”
Minute 21
Sandman follows and catches Sinbad around the head.
He moves into a running bulldog.
Sinbad tries to hold him back at the waist, but Sandman drives forward and completes the drop.
He turns Sinbad onto his back and covers, hooking a leg.
One.
Two—
Sinbad kicks out.
Sandman stays on his knees beside him, watching the referee confirm the count.
Julian Ward: “The bulldog produces a two-count. Sinbad’s attempt to stop the forward movement was unsuccessful, and Sandman followed promptly into the cover.”
Brick Brody: “That was the right idea. Stop giving him time between the impact and the pin. Make him spend what he has left getting your weight off him.”
Minute 22
Sandman pulls Sinbad upright and slips into another sleeper.
Sinbad fights the locking arm, refusing the submission as ‘Honest’ Abe checks him.
He gradually turns into the hold, frees his head, and keeps possession of Sandman’s wrist.
A short-arm lariat knocks Sandman down.
Sinbad staggers away rather than following, rubbing at his neck.
Julian Ward: “Sinbad escapes another sleeper and converts the break into a lariat. The response is effective, but he needs time afterward.”
Brick Brody: “He’s fighting his way out and then trying to refill his lungs. Sandman is making every answer expensive.”
Minute 23
Sinbad gathers himself and closes the distance.
He rotates into a discus back elbow.
Sandman attempts to raise his guard and turn with the strike, but the elbow catches him along the side of the head.
He stumbles and drops to one knee.
Sinbad remains standing over him, shoulders heaving.
Julian Ward: “The discus back elbow gets through. Sinbad has now put together consecutive attacks after a long period spent escaping Sandman’s control.”
Brick Brody: “Now he needs to stay there. Don’t let Sandman get behind him again and drag this straight back into another sleeper.”
Minute 24
Sandman rises into range and turns through a spinning fist strike.
The blow catches Sinbad, forcing him back toward the corner.
Sandman follows.
Sinbad catches his head in an inverted facelock, uses the corner for elevation, and swings into another inverted tornado DDT.
Sandman lands hard.
Sinbad rolls away, touching his jaw.
Julian Ward: “The spinning strike lands, but the pursuit takes Sandman into the same corner danger he encountered earlier. Sinbad delivers the inverted tornado DDT again.”
Brick Brody: “He hurt him and got impatient. You don’t erase nine matches of experience because you landed one good punch.”
Minute 25
Sandman regains his feet and delivers another spinning fist strike.
Sinbad reels but stays upright.
When Sandman moves close, Sinbad turns beside him, traps his head in the inverted facelock, and drops him across a knee.
Sandman falls from the backbreaker and curls onto his side.
Sinbad remains kneeling for a moment before releasing the hold.
Julian Ward: “Sinbad returns to the backbreaker that featured so prominently at the start. After twenty-five minutes, the accumulated damage is affecting both men’s recovery.”
Brick Brody: “That back was hurt before this match was five minutes old. Keep reminding him. Every time he tries to stand, make him remember who did it.”
Minute 26
Sandman catches Sinbad moving toward him and secures the head.
He accelerates into another running bulldog.
Sinbad strikes the canvas, then gradually pushes himself upright near the ropes.
Sandman follows.
As he closes, Sinbad turns through a discus back elbow, catching him before he can secure another hold.
Both men stagger apart.
Julian Ward: “Another exchange without a lasting advantage. Sandman lands the bulldog; Sinbad answers before the next grip is established.”
Brick Brody: “They’re running out of easy movement now. Look at them turn. Look at them stand. Whoever wastes the least effort from here has a chance to finish this.”
Minute 27
Sinbad advances and launches another double knee strike.
Sandman steps aside and guides him past, denying the impact.
As Sinbad lands and turns, Sandman circles behind him.
The sleeper closes.
Sinbad immediately reaches for the forearm, but Sandman pulls him away from the ropes and settles his weight into the hold.
Sinbad refuses to submit.
His knees bend as he continues fighting the grip.
Julian Ward: “The attempted knee strike has become another sleeper. Sandman avoided the attack and took the position behind Sinbad before he could recover.”
Brick Brody: “That’s a miserable mistake this late. He spent the energy jumping and landed with somebody waiting to squeeze the rest out of him.”
Minute 28
Sinbad works enough space into the hold to turn.
Sandman briefly loses the clasp, then reaches to secure the sleeper again.
The arm closes around Sinbad’s neck for another punishing stretch.
Sinbad continues to resist. He pulls the forearm down, turns his head free, and catches Sandman in an inverted facelock.
With a strained effort, he delivers another backbreaker.
Sandman falls away.
Sinbad remains bent over, hands on his thighs.
Julian Ward: “Sinbad survives another application and answers with the backbreaker. He is still finding a route out, but the effort is leaving him increasingly slow to follow.”
Brick Brody: “He knows the route. The question is whether his body can keep taking him through it. That was a hard escape.”
Minute 29
Sinbad catches Sandman’s wrist as he rises.
Sandman tries to brace and pull his arm inward.
Sinbad holds on, steps through, and delivers a short-arm lariat.
Sandman hits the mat and rolls toward the corner.
Sinbad releases the wrist and follows slowly, taking a breath with each step.
Julian Ward: “Another lariat puts Sandman down. Sinbad has regained the initiative, but he cannot close the distance as quickly as he did earlier.”
Brick Brody: “Then he needs to make the next grip count. Don’t give Sandman enough room to do something desperate.”
Minute 30
Sandman uses the corner ropes to pull himself up.
Sinbad approaches, reaching toward him.
Sandman climbs onto the turnbuckles, turns, and launches.
The missile clothesline catches Sinbad across the upper chest and drives him onto his back.
Sandman lands beside him and immediately moves to cover.
Sinbad catches the extended arm.
He swings his legs toward Sandman’s shoulder, attempting to establish a cross armbreaker from the canvas.
Sandman keeps the elbow bent and drives his weight forward before the arm can be extended.
He frees himself from the incomplete hold, settles across Sinbad’s chest, and gathers the far leg.
‘Honest’ Abe drops into position.
One.
Two.
Three.
The bell sounds.
Sandman releases the cover and rolls onto his back beside Sinbad.
For several moments, neither man rises.
The referee checks Sinbad, then moves toward Sandman, who has begun pushing himself onto one elbow.
Louie Linville steps into position.
Louie Linville: “Ladies and gentlemen, your winner, by pinfall… Sandman!”
‘Honest’ Abe helps Sandman to his feet and raises his arm.
Sandman stands with a slight bend at the waist, one hand pressed against his lower back.
Across the ring, Sinbad sits near the ropes.
He looks toward Sandman, then lowers his eyes to the canvas.
Sandman holds his raised arm for another moment before allowing the referee to release it.
Julian Ward: “Sandman has defeated a familiar opponent whose recent form made him a significant test. The missile clothesline created the final opening, and he prevented Sinbad’s last attempt to turn the cover into an arm submission. Their singles series now stands at six victories for Sinbad, four for Sandman.”
Brick Brody: “He earned that one the hard way. Sinbad kept escaping the sleeper, but every escape took something out of him. By the time that clothesline landed, he had enough left to reach for an arm and not enough to finish the job.”
Julian Ward: “Both men entered seeking a return to the title scene. Tonight, Sandman leaves with the result that strengthens his case. Sinbad’s strong recent record remains significant, but this chapter belongs to the man who found the final answer.”
RESULT: SANDMAN DEFEATS SINBAD VIA PINFALL FOLLOWING A MISSILE CLOTHESLINE IN THE 30TH MINUTE.
XXX
The entrance stage darkens.
Across the screens, thorn-covered branches twist around the outline of a crown.
Rosalyn, Queen of Thorns, emerges first, stopping beneath the archway with her chin raised. Morgana Le Faye steps into the light beside her.
For a moment, they survey the ring together.
Then Rosalyn begins walking.
Morgana matches her pace.
Julian Ward: “The debut of Thorn and Crown. Rosalyn, Queen of Thorns, and Morgana Le Faye bring considerable individual ability to this partnership. Tonight begins the examination of how effectively they can combine it.”
Brick Brody: “Two dangerous women don’t automatically make a dangerous team. They have to know when to get in, when to get out, and when to help the other one hurt somebody.”
At ringside, Rosalyn climbs the steps while Morgana approaches the adjacent side of the apron.
They enter together.
Rosalyn looks toward the entrance. Morgana moves beside her, speaking quietly before both turn toward their corner.
The music changes.
A fractured melody echoes through the Coliseum.
Puppetmaster appears beneath the entrance arch, with Patchwork Piper and Patchwork Paula following him.
Their movements alternate between stillness and sudden, precise motion. At the top of the ramp, both stop when their manager stops.
He gestures toward the ring.
They advance.
Julian Ward: “The Patchwork Dolls provide an established partnership against which to measure this debut. Puppetmaster’s presence introduces another concern.”
Brick Brody: “And they’d better account for him. You can spend all night studying two opponents and lose because you forgot the third person standing outside.”
Patchwork Piper climbs onto the apron. Patchwork Paula follows, and they step through the ropes beneath Puppetmaster’s watch.
At the centre, Louie Linville raises his microphone.
Louie Linville: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following tag team contest is scheduled for one fall, with a thirty-minute time limit.”
He turns toward the debuting team.
Louie Linville: “Introducing first… Rosalyn, Queen of Thorns… and Morgana Le Faye… together, Thorn and Crown!”
Rosalyn raises one hand. Morgana remains still beside her, watching their opponents.
Louie Linville: “And their opponents… accompanied by Puppetmaster… Patchwork Piper and Patchwork Paula… the Patchwork Dolls!”
The two women step forward together before separating toward their corner.
Louie Linville: “Your referee… ‘Honest’ Abe!”
The referee directs the partners onto the apron.
Morgana Le Faye remains inside for Thorn and Crown.
Across from her, Patchwork Paula takes the opening position.
The bell sounds.
Minute 1
Morgana closes quickly, securing the Sorceress’s Embrace and drawing Paula into its constricting pressure.
Paula struggles toward the ropes.
As ‘Honest’ Abe checks their position, Puppetmaster reaches beneath the bottom rope and catches Morgana’s ankle. A sharp pull disrupts her balance and forces her to release.
By the time the referee turns, the manager has withdrawn.
Morgana looks toward him, then backs into her corner and tags Rosalyn.
Julian Ward: “An immediate intervention from Puppetmaster breaks Morgana’s control. She responds by bringing her partner in rather than pursuing him.”
Brick Brody: “Good decision. He wants her looking outside. Make his wrestler suffer instead.”
Minute 2
Rosalyn attempts Royal Constriction, reaching to secure both of Paula’s arms.
Paula turns free before the double armbar can close and catches Rosalyn’s head for a one-hand bulldog.
Rosalyn plants her feet, slips her head from beneath the controlling hand, and circles behind.
She locks the waist and delivers Scepter Snap, throwing Paula backward with a German suplex.
Rosalyn returns to her corner and tags Morgana.
Julian Ward: “Two reversals end with Scepter Snap. Rosalyn prevented the bulldog and immediately found the waist.”
Brick Brody: “And they’ve made another tag while they control the match. That’s a better sign than any entrance pose.”
Minute 3
After a cautious approach, Paula catches Morgana in a wrenching side headlock.
Morgana braces against her hip and tries to pull her head free.
Paula widens her stance and tightens the hold, forcing Morgana to bend at the waist.
Rosalyn extends a hand from the corner, but Morgana cannot reach her.
Julian Ward: “Paula has stopped the early rotation. Morgana’s attempt to loosen the headlock has not created enough room.”
Brick Brody: “Keep her bent over and make her carry your weight. New teams can’t show off their teamwork when you keep one of them away from the corner.”
Minute 4
Morgana works free and reaches for the Sorceress’s Embrace.
Paula turns into her, trying to establish the grip for an X Factor facebuster.
Neither woman obtains secure control.
They struggle chest to chest before breaking apart, both retaining their footing.
Morgana withdraws to her corner and tags Rosalyn.
Julian Ward: “Neither attempted attack develops into a meaningful impact. Morgana uses the separation to make another change.”
Brick Brody: “Don’t waste strength wrestling over a grip you haven’t got. Bring in the partner and make the other woman solve a different problem.”
Minute 5
Rosalyn catches Paula bent forward and secures the Gotch-style grip.
She lifts and drops into Crimson Requiem.
The piledriver leaves Paula sprawled beside her.
As Rosalyn begins rising, Paula rolls toward the ropes and pulls herself upright. When Rosalyn reaches from one knee, Paula stamps down hard across her reaching hand and forearm.
Rosalyn recoils, drawing the arm inward.
Julian Ward: “Crimson Requiem lands, but Paula finds a harsh response during the recovery. That stomp targeted the arm reaching to continue the attack.”
Brick Brody: “Good. Make every hand that grabs you regret it. She needed something ugly after that piledriver.”
Minute 6
Rosalyn closes again, trapping Paula’s arm and positioning a leg across her base.
Paula tries to widen her stance.
Rosalyn sweeps the leg and carries her into the arm-trap impact of the Glass Garden Slam.
She turns into a cover.
One.
Two—
Paula kicks out.
Julian Ward: “The Glass Garden Slam earns a two-count. Rosalyn controlled the arm throughout, limiting Paula’s ability to protect the landing.”
Brick Brody: “That’s how you answer the stomp. Take her arm away from her and throw the rest of her after it.”
Minute 7
Paula catches Rosalyn as they return to their feet.
She plants one hand firmly behind the head and accelerates into a bulldog.
Rosalyn reaches around her waist, attempting to halt the movement, but Paula pulls her forward and drives her face-first into the canvas.
Rosalyn rolls onto her side.
Julian Ward: “The one-hand bulldog succeeds this time. Rosalyn could not stop the forward movement as she did earlier.”
Brick Brody: “Because Paula committed to it before she could plant her feet. Same move, better opening.”
Minute 8
Rosalyn draws Paula into a ground exchange and traps her in Thorn Spike.
The Koji clutch tightens around the head and upper body.
Paula struggles against the pressure while ‘Honest’ Abe checks for a submission.
She refuses, shifting her weight and gradually creating enough space to begin loosening the entanglement.
Julian Ward: “Thorn Spike has slowed Paula’s response. She remains in the contest, but Rosalyn is making her fight through another restrictive hold.”
Brick Brody: “Keep making her escape. Every time she does, there’s a little less strength available for the next one.”
Minute 9
Rosalyn transitions into Royal Constriction, gathering both arms and applying the Venus de Milo double armbar.
Paula twists her shoulders, eventually pulling one arm free.
As they rise, she catches Rosalyn’s head and delivers another one-hand bulldog.
This time, Paula turns toward her own corner.
She reaches Piper and makes the tag.
Julian Ward: “Paula escapes the arm control, lands the bulldog, and finally brings Piper into the contest.”
Brick Brody: “She stayed in a long time. Now let the fresh partner do some damage before Rosalyn gets another hold locked.”
Minute 10
Rosalyn meets Piper with a headbutt.
Piper staggers but stays close.
She catches Rosalyn in a front facelock, secures the waist, and lifts her into a vertical suplex.
Rosalyn lands across her back.
Piper rises, returns to the corner, and tags Paula back in.
Julian Ward: “A brief appearance from Piper, but an effective one. The vertical suplex answers the headbutt before she returns the match to Paula.”
Brick Brody: “Short shifts can work. But Paula had better have used that minute to recover, because she’s walking back toward someone who knows how to hurt her.”
Minute 11
Rosalyn gets behind Paula, gathers her into a cradle, and delivers Queen’s Gambit, turning the belly-to-back lift into an inverted mat slam.
Paula lands hard.
Rosalyn takes time to rise, and Paula uses that pause to regain her knees.
When Rosalyn approaches, Paula catches the head and pulls her into another one-hand bulldog.
Both remain down briefly.
Julian Ward: “Queen’s Gambit lands, but Rosalyn cannot prevent another bulldog in reply. These exchanges are becoming increasingly costly.”
Brick Brody: “She’s landing the bigger throws and still leaving that head available. Fix that, or Paula will keep driving it into the mat.”
Minute 12
Near the Thorn and Crown corner, Rosalyn takes Paula down and applies Crown of Thorns, wrenching the arm in a Fujiwara armbar.
Morgana steps through the ropes.
As Rosalyn releases and draws Paula up, Morgana delivers a side Russian legsweep, then folds into an octopus hold on the canvas.
‘Honest’ Abe orders her out.
During the separation, Paula catches the legal Rosalyn in a wrenching side headlock and drags her away from the corner.
Morgana returns to the apron.
Julian Ward: “Thorn and Crown combined their attacks without a tag, and the referee has forced Morgana out. Paula used that separation to regain some control.”
Brick Brody: “They made the extra body count. Now Rosalyn needs to stop giving back the advantage as soon as her partner leaves.”
Minute 13
Rosalyn loosens the headlock and turns behind Paula.
She captures both arms for Royal Constriction.
Paula attempts to pull one elbow inward, but Rosalyn completes the double armbar and stretches her shoulders.
After working the hold, Rosalyn releases, keeps control long enough to reach her corner, and tags Morgana.
Julian Ward: “Another attack to both arms, followed by the first legal change for Thorn and Crown since the fourth minute.”
Brick Brody: “Rosalyn did a long stretch. Morgana needs to come in and collect on the damage she’s left behind.”
Minute 14
Morgana approaches Paula, who draws her toward the ropes.
Across the ring, Piper leans through the ropes, attracting ‘Honest’ Abe’s attention.
Puppetmaster reaches up behind Morgana and draws a cord across her throat.
Morgana grabs at it, trying to pull it clear.
The manager releases and conceals the cord before the referee turns back.
Coughing, Morgana retreats along the ropes and tags Rosalyn.
There is no disqualification.
Julian Ward: “Puppetmaster used a cord around Morgana’s throat. ‘Honest’ Abe did not see it, and the match continues.”
Brick Brody: “He picked his moment. Morgana did the sensible thing afterward—get out before Paula can pile more punishment on top.”
Minute 15
After a guarded reset, Rosalyn drives a headbutt into Paula.
Morgana enters again and follows with a side Russian legsweep, turning into the octopus hold as Rosalyn remains close.
The referee moves to remove the extra wrestler.
During the confusion, Paula frees a hand, produces a small canister, and sprays hairspray into Rosalyn’s eyes.
Rosalyn recoils.
Paula discards the canister toward ringside as Morgana returns to the apron.
Julian Ward: “Hairspray in Rosalyn’s eyes. Their attempt to attack together has created an opening for Paula to use a concealed object.”
Brick Brody: “You invite confusion, you’d better be ready for the other team to use it. Paula wasn’t waiting around to be punished politely.”
Minute 16
Rosalyn blinks hard, keeping her hands extended.
Paula moves in for a wrenching side headlock.
Rosalyn catches the wrist before the grip closes and braces against Paula’s shoulder.
She turns her head free and pushes away, preventing the hold.
Both women reset.
Julian Ward: “An important defensive stop while Rosalyn clears her vision. She prevented Paula from securing the headlock.”
Brick Brody: “She felt the grip coming and fought it early. That’s experience keeping her out of trouble when her eyes can’t.”
Minute 17
Rosalyn catches Paula and pulls her into position for Crimson Requiem.
The Gotch piledriver lands.
As Rosalyn rises near the ropes, Puppetmaster stretches his marionette cord into her path and jerks it against her ankle.
Rosalyn pitches forward onto the canvas.
The interruption gives Paula time to crawl toward her corner and tag Piper.
Julian Ward: “Another piledriver, but Puppetmaster’s trip prevents the follow-up and gives Paula a route out.”
Brick Brody: “He’s keeping his team alive from the floor. Thorn and Crown have to stop treating the ropes beside him like safe ground.”
Minute 18
Rosalyn catches the entering Piper around the waist and delivers Scepter Snap.
The German suplex sends Piper rolling toward the corner.
Rosalyn moves to follow, then drops to one knee, still feeling the accumulated punishment.
Piper recovers on the ropes, climbs, and launches a top-rope elbow into Rosalyn after she falls back to the mat.
Piper then returns to her corner and tags Paula.
Julian Ward: “Scepter Snap lands, but Piper recovers in time to deliver the diving elbow. Paula is legal again.”
Brick Brody: “Another short visit, another hard landing for Rosalyn. Those minutes are adding up on her.”
Minute 19
Paula catches Rosalyn’s head and drives her down with a one-hand bulldog.
Piper remains inside long enough to follow with a forearm smash as Rosalyn rises.
‘Honest’ Abe orders Piper back out.
Despite the attack, Rosalyn captures Paula’s arms and applies Royal Constriction, forcing the legal opponent backward under the pressure.
Julian Ward: “The Patchwork Dolls are exploiting their numbers, but Rosalyn has still secured the double armbar on Paula.”
Brick Brody: “Hurt the one you can hold. She can’t watch both women at once, but she can make one of them pay for standing close.”
Minute 20
Paula works out of the armbar and stays between Rosalyn and her corner.
Piper slips in again during the struggle.
Rosalyn catches her with a headbutt, but Piper recovers as Rosalyn tries to push past and sends her over with a back body drop.
Paula remains nearby, guarding the route across the ring without adding another attack.
The referee again drives Piper toward the ropes.
Julian Ward: “Paula is holding the position while Piper supplies the additional offence. Rosalyn answered with a headbutt but still took the back body drop.”
Brick Brody: “That’s what makes two opponents so miserable. You deal with one, and the other is waiting where you need to go.”
Minute 21
The Patchwork Dolls hesitate as Rosalyn rises.
Neither commits to another strike.
Rosalyn moves behind the legal Paula, locks her waist, and delivers Scepter Snap.
Paula lands across her shoulders.
‘Honest’ Abe finally restores the proper separation, forcing Piper fully onto the apron while Rosalyn turns toward her fallen opponent.
Julian Ward: “Rosalyn has broken that sequence of interference with a German suplex. Piper is back outside, leaving Paula to face the consequences.”
Brick Brody: “They had two women near her and neither took the opening. Rosalyn did. That’s how an advantage gets wasted.”
Minute 22
Rosalyn gathers Paula from behind again.
Paula tries to peel her hands apart, but the waistlock holds.
A second consecutive Scepter Snap drives her into the canvas.
Rosalyn covers.
One.
Two—
Piper rushes in and breaks the pin.
As ‘Honest’ Abe forces her away, Rosalyn reaches her corner and tags Morgana.
Julian Ward: “Piper saves the match after another Scepter Snap. Rosalyn uses the interruption to bring in her partner.”
Brick Brody: “That’s why the partner matters. Paula wasn’t getting an easy escape from that cover.”
Minute 23
Morgana enters quickly.
Paula catches her approaching, securing the upper body for the X Factor facebuster.
Morgana braces against her shoulders and tries to remain upright.
Paula drops sharply, driving her face-first into the canvas.
Morgana rolls onto her side.
Julian Ward: “The X Factor facebuster stops Morgana’s entrance into the exchange. She could not break the grip before the drop.”
Brick Brody: “Fresh legs don’t help when you walk straight into the other woman’s hands. Paula needed that badly.”
Minute 24
Paula pulls Morgana into a wrenching side headlock.
She grinds the hold, keeping Morgana bent and turning her away from Rosalyn.
Then she guides the action toward her own corner.
Piper reaches over the rope.
Paula makes the tag and releases as her partner enters.
Julian Ward: “Head control carries Morgana into the wrong corner. Piper now enters against an opponent who has been unable to establish offence since the tag.”
Brick Brody: “That’s a useful change. Make the other woman fight her way across the entire ring if she wants help.”
Minute 25
Morgana finds Piper dropping to one knee during their opening struggle and drives through with a Shining Wizard.
The knee strike knocks Piper backward.
Morgana cannot follow immediately.
Piper recovers near the corner and climbs while Morgana struggles to rise, then launches a top-rope elbow into her torso as she falls back.
Both women remain down briefly.
Julian Ward: “The Shining Wizard lands, but Piper answers with another top-rope elbow. Neither woman can sustain the advantage.”
Brick Brody: “They’re landing hard and recovering slowly. That’s when you start needing your partner more than your next big move.”
Minute 26
Piper rises first and brings Morgana upright.
She drives a forearm smash through Morgana’s attempted guard.
Morgana staggers away.
Piper returns to her corner and tags Paula, who enters with her eyes fixed upon the retreating opponent.
Julian Ward: “The forearm gives Piper a clean exit. Paula returns while Morgana is still trying to regain her balance.”
Brick Brody: “Keep making those changes while she’s hurt. Don’t wait until she’s got you trapped before remembering there’s a partner behind you.”
Minute 27
Morgana gathers momentum and drives a running hip attack into Paula, knocking her backward near the ropes.
She follows to maintain control.
Paula catches her head and turns into a one-hand bulldog, dragging Morgana down.
Rosalyn leans over the top rope, calling for her partner.
Julian Ward: “The hip attack creates an opening, but the bulldog closes it again. Morgana remains some distance from her corner.”
Brick Brody: “Paula keeps finding that head. It’s been her answer all night, and neither opponent has taken it away consistently.”
Minute 28
After a guarded reset, Morgana catches Paula from behind and delivers a release German suplex.
Rosalyn steps inside while Morgana recovers.
She gathers Paula’s arms into Royal Constriction, stretching them until ‘Honest’ Abe orders her to release and leave.
As Rosalyn withdraws, Paula works free, catches the legal Morgana, and lands another one-hand bulldog.
Julian Ward: “Thorn and Crown are again combining attacks without completing a tag. Paula still finds a reply against the legal wrestler.”
Brick Brody: “They’re trying to force a finish, but taking turns hurting her isn’t enough if they leave her room to answer.”
Minute 29
Paula catches Morgana’s leg and turns into a spinning toe hold.
Morgana twists toward her corner, trying to relieve the pressure.
Rosalyn enters and pulls Paula away, traps an arm in a hammerlock, and drives her down with Dagger Bloom.
As Paula struggles to one knee, Morgana follows with a Shining Wizard.
The referee sends Rosalyn out.
At ringside, Louie Linville rises.
Louie Linville: “One minute remains!”
Julian Ward: “Dagger Bloom and the Shining Wizard leave Paula in difficulty, but the time limit is now a factor. Morgana has one minute to secure a decision.”
Brick Brody: “Then stay on her. They’ve spent twenty-nine minutes doing damage. Don’t spend the last one admiring it.”
Minute 30
Morgana approaches Paula, reaching to pull her upright.
Paula catches the head.
Morgana grips her waist and tries to resist, but Paula drives forward into another one-hand bulldog.
The impact leaves Morgana flat on the canvas.
Paula lands beside her and slowly turns, trying to gather herself for a follow-up.
Rosalyn calls from the apron.
Piper stretches an arm toward her partner.
Before either team can complete another exchange, the bell rings.
Julian Ward: “The thirty minutes have expired. Paula landed the final bulldog, but there was no fall before the bell.”
Brick Brody: “Plenty of punishment, no winner. Both teams had chances to settle it and let the other side stay alive.”
‘Honest’ Abe steps between the competitors as Rosalyn enters.
Piper joins Paula, helping her sit upright.
Outside, Puppetmaster watches the referee confer with Louie Linville.
The announcement follows.
Louie Linville: “Ladies and gentlemen, the thirty-minute time limit has expired. This contest is declared a draw!”
Rosalyn looks toward the timekeeper, then back at the Patchwork Dolls.
Morgana rises beside her, favouring the leg caught in the late toe hold.
Across the ring, Paula leans against the ropes while Piper remains close.
Puppetmaster gestures for his team to withdraw.
They leave together.
Thorn and Crown remain inside the ring, watching them go.
Julian Ward: “The debut of Thorn and Crown ends without a decision. We saw effective early tags and dangerous combinations, but also stretches in which they struggled to protect one another from the Patchwork Dolls and Puppetmaster.”
Brick Brody: “They can hurt people together. That part works. Now they need to learn how to keep somebody hurt long enough to finish—and how to stop a man with a cord from making fools of them.”
Julian Ward: “Their partnership has survived its first contest, but its first victory remains ahead of them. Neither team leaves with a result that settles which belongs above the other.”
RESULT: THORN AND CROWN AND THE PATCHWORK DOLLS WRESTLE TO A 30-MINUTE TIME-LIMIT DRAW.
The cameras move backstage to a stone archway bearing the Dark Fable crest.
Hana Nakamura stands beside John Henry.
His hammer rests upright at his side, one broad hand settled upon the handle. His attention is on the interviewer, his posture relaxed but his expression serious.
Hana Nakamura: “John Henry, there has been a great deal of discussion tonight about who holds power in the Mythic Division. But you have been building a case of your own inside the ring.”
“Eight wins, one loss, and one draw since joining the division, following a four-and-two record at the Academy.”
She turns toward him.
Hana Nakamura: “With that start behind you, what comes next?”
John Henry nods once.
John Henry: “A title shot.”
The answer comes without hesitation.
John Henry: “Eternal Flame. Mythic Crown. Universal.”
“Put any one of those championships on the line, and you won’t have to ask me twice.”
Hana Nakamura: “You’re prepared to challenge any of those champions?”
John Henry: “I’m prepared to earn my place across from them.”
He shifts his hand on the hammer’s handle.
John Henry: “I know I haven’t been in Camelot as long as some of the men here. I know there are people who still look at me and see the fellow who just came out of the Academy.”
“That’s fair enough. Everybody has to arrive sometime.”
A small pause.
John Henry: “But I didn’t leave the Academy expecting somebody to hand me a championship. I came here expecting work.”
“And I’ve been doing it.”
Hana Nakamura: “Your record certainly supports that.”
John Henry: “Eight wins. One loss. One draw.”
“I remember the loss. I remember the draw. There are things in both of them I ought to have done better.”
“But there are eight men who found out I belong here.”
He looks toward the camera.
John Henry: “So my question is simple.”
“Who else do I have to beat?”
Hana Nakamura brings the microphone closer.
Hana Nakamura: “Is that a question for the commissioner?”
John Henry: “For anybody making the matches.”
“Give me a name. Give me a night. If there’s another man standing between me and an opportunity, let me face him.”
A quiet laugh comes from beyond the camera.
John Henry turns his head.
Dr. Frankenstein steps into view.
His amusement continues as he looks John Henry up and down, studying the powerful shoulders, the broad hands, and finally the hammer.
Dr. Frankenstein: “How refreshing.”
Hana Nakamura turns toward him, keeping the microphone between the two men.
Dr. Frankenstein: “A man who believes every difficulty can be overcome with sufficient effort.”
John Henry: “Usually helps to make one.”
The doctor’s smile tightens, then returns.
Dr. Frankenstein: “Oh, I quite agree. Effort is essential.”
“Though its value depends considerably upon the task—and the limitations of the man attempting it.”
He takes another step closer.
Dr. Frankenstein: “You have made an impressive beginning, John Henry. Eight victories deserve acknowledgment.”
“But you are speaking of ascending the Mythic Division. Of standing among its champions.”
His gaze moves briefly toward the hammer again.
Dr. Frankenstein: “That requires rather more than an impressive beginning.”
John Henry: “Then say what you came to say.”
Dr. Frankenstein gives a soft chuckle.
Dr. Frankenstein: “Perhaps you should face the Monsters Bash.”
Hana Nakamura’s expression sharpens.
Hana Nakamura: “Doctor, are you proposing a challenge for John Henry?”
Dr. Frankenstein: “He asked who else he must defeat.”
“I am offering him something worth considering.”
John Henry straightens slightly.
John Henry: “I’m up for any challenge.”
“No reason to dress it up. If you’ve got somebody you want standing across from me, bring him.”
For the first time, the doctor allows a longer silence.
He studies John Henry’s face, apparently searching for a trace of uncertainty.
There is none.
Dr. Frankenstein: “Before you agree so readily, I suggest you watch the remainder of tonight’s programme.”
John Henry: “I was planning on it.”
Dr. Frankenstein: “Then pay particular attention to Lion.”
The name changes the atmosphere.
Hana Nakamura: “Lion faces Frankenstein’s Monster later tonight.”
Dr. Frankenstein: “The Alpha Monster, Miss Nakamura.”
He speaks the designation with unmistakable pride.
Dr. Frankenstein: “Watch what happens when Lion stands before him.”
“Watch the effort. The determination. All those admirable qualities people insist will carry them through an impossible situation.”
The doctor leans slightly toward John Henry.
Dr. Frankenstein: “And watch what remains when those qualities prove insufficient.”
Hana Nakamura: “Lion has endured a betrayal and still intends to compete tonight. You seem very certain that his resolve will mean nothing.”
Dr. Frankenstein: “Resolve is not what concerns me.”
He keeps his eyes on John Henry.
Dr. Frankenstein: “I am interested in what a body can withstand.”
For a moment, only the distant arena noise fills the corridor.
John Henry’s hand remains resting on his hammer.
He neither lifts it nor steps away.
John Henry: “Then you watch closely too.”
The doctor raises an eyebrow.
John Henry: “Because Lion gets to fight before you get to tell everybody what happened to him.”
Dr. Frankenstein’s expression loses some of its amusement.
John Henry: “I’ll watch your monster. Every minute.”
“And when it’s over, you can come back and ask whether I’ve changed my mind.”
Dr. Frankenstein: “You may find that I will not need to ask.”
The doctor gives Hana Nakamura a slight nod and turns away.
His laughter returns as he disappears down the corridor.
Hana Nakamura watches him leave before facing John Henry again.
Hana Nakamura: “Does any of that change what you said about wanting a championship opportunity?”
John Henry looks down the passage for another moment.
Then he returns his attention to her.
John Henry: “No.”
“I asked who I had to beat.”
He lifts the hammer from the floor and rests it against his shoulder.
John Henry: “I’m still waiting on a name and a date.”
The camera holds on his steady expression before cutting away.
The Eternal Flame Championship graphic fills the screen.
When it fades, the entrance stage is illuminated in deep red.
Mordred emerges alone.
He pauses beneath the archway, looking toward the ring. His wrists are taped. His expression carries none of the uncertainty that surrounded the opening of the broadcast.
He walks down the ramp without taking his eyes from the canvas.
Julian Ward: “The Eternal Flame Championship will now be decided over two out of three falls, with no time limit. Mordred must defeat the champion twice to take the title.”
Brick Brody: “And the champion has to beat him twice to keep it. There’s nowhere to hide behind a clock in this one.”
Mordred climbs onto the apron and enters.
He tests the ropes, then stands near his corner as the entrance music changes.
Severin Crowne appears first.
He steps aside to allow Sheriff of Nottingham into the light.
The champion wears the Eternal Flame Championship around his waist. He rests both hands against its centre plate, surveys the crowd, and begins the walk toward the ring.
Severin Crowne follows just behind his shoulder.
Julian Ward: “Earlier tonight, the Sheriff helped enforce the commissioner’s decision against the Merry Band. He now faces a challenger who has made his opposition to King Arthur clear.”
Brick Brody: “That won’t win Mordred a fall. He needs to keep his mind on the champion and one eye on the man walking behind him.”
At ringside, Severin Crowne stops beside the steps.
He looks into the ring.
Mordred returns the stare.
The champion climbs onto the apron and enters, unfastening the championship as he approaches the centre.
Louie Linville raises his microphone.
Louie Linville: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is for the Eternal Flame Championship. It shall be contested under two-out-of-three-falls rules, with no time limit!”
He turns toward the challenger.
Louie Linville: “Introducing first… the challenger… Mordred!”
The crowd answers with a strong cheer.
Mordred steps forward, then settles back into his corner.
Louie Linville: “And his opponent… accompanied by Severin Crowne… representing the Shadow Court… the reigning Eternal Flame Champion… Sheriff of Nottingham!”
The champion lifts the belt toward Mordred before handing it to ‘Honest’ Abe.
The referee presents it to the challenger, then raises it for the audience.
Severin Crowne removes his jacket at ringside and folds it over his arm.
The championship is passed to the timekeeper.
The bell rings.
Minute 1
Sheriff of Nottingham circles behind Mordred and reaches for a sleeper.
Mordred catches the wrist before the hold closes. He lowers his chin, turns into the champion’s arm, and works his head free.
The Sheriff tries to follow, but Mordred steps clear and faces him.
Julian Ward: “Mordred prevents the sleeper before the champion can establish pressure. A controlled opening from the challenger.”
Brick Brody: “He’d better keep doing that. Let the Sheriff settle behind you, and he’ll spend the rest of the night finding reasons to stay there.”
Minute 2
Mordred closes the distance and springs into a dropkick.
The Sheriff raises his arms, but both boots strike through the guard and knock him backward.
He lands near the ropes and pulls himself onto one knee.
Mordred remains in the centre, denying him an easy route forward.
Julian Ward: “The dropkick lands cleanly despite the attempted block. Mordred has forced the champion to reset.”
Brick Brody: “And he’s making him get up under his own power. Keep taking a little out of him. There are two falls to win.”
Minute 3
The Sheriff turns toward the ropes, springs from them, and delivers a springboard dropkick into Mordred’s upper body.
Mordred falls hard.
The champion rises and approaches, but Mordred gathers himself onto his feet, lowers his shoulder, and drives through him with a spear.
Both men remain down after the collision.
Julian Ward: “A forceful response to the springboard dropkick. Mordred’s spear has left the champion clutching his midsection.”
Brick Brody: “He got hit, got up, and put his shoulder through the man who did it. That’s a useful answer.”
Minute 4
The Sheriff regains his feet and catches Mordred alongside him.
He controls the head and arm, places his leg behind the challenger’s, and falls backward into a Russian legsweep.
Mordred lands across his back and shoulders.
The champion rolls away, taking a moment to draw breath.
Julian Ward: “The Russian legsweep gives the Sheriff control of the next exchange. He secured the upper body before taking away Mordred’s balance.”
Brick Brody: “Now stay with him. You can’t let the challenger get comfortable after every landing.”
Minute 5
Mordred catches the champion in a swinging neckbreaker and drives him down.
As Mordred rises near the ropes, Severin Crowne moves behind him with a folded steel chair.
With ‘Honest’ Abe checking the fallen champion, Crowne drives the chair into Mordred’s back through the ropes.
Mordred drops to one knee.
The chair disappears below the apron before the referee turns.
There is no disqualification.
Julian Ward: “Severin Crowne has struck Mordred with a chair. The referee was attending to the champion and did not see the blow.”
Brick Brody: “That’s why Crowne is there. One opening, one shot, and the challenger’s good work suddenly costs him.”
Minute 6
Mordred pushes through the pain and catches both of the Sheriff’s legs.
He steps through, crosses them, and turns the champion onto his stomach.
The Sharpshooter is secured.
The Sheriff claws toward the ropes, shaking his head when ‘Honest’ Abe asks for a submission.
He finally reaches the bottom strand.
Mordred releases at the referee’s instruction.
Julian Ward: “The champion survives the first Sharpshooter, but Mordred has begun attacking the legs and lower back.”
Brick Brody: “That hold hurts long after you get out. The Sheriff needs to stop him getting those legs together again.”
Minute 7
The Sheriff catches Mordred approaching and snaps him upward into a brainbuster.
Mordred lands hard, then rolls toward the ropes.
The champion follows slowly.
As he reaches down, Mordred fights upright, catches him across the upper body, and delivers the Downward Spiral.
The Sheriff is driven face-first into the canvas.
Julian Ward: “The snap brainbuster does not prevent an answer. Mordred has used the champion’s approach to deliver the Downward Spiral.”
Brick Brody: “Both men are paying for every step forward. The first fall’s going to matter, because neither will be fresh when the second starts.”
Minute 8
Mordred reaches his feet first.
He advances and drives a clothesline across the champion’s upper chest.
The Sheriff attempts to brace behind his forearms but is knocked onto his back.
Mordred follows him toward the centre.
Julian Ward: “The clothesline gets through. Mordred is making the champion defend before he has fully recovered.”
Brick Brody: “That’s where he wants him. Flat on his back, looking up, wondering which part gets hurt next.”
Minute 9
Severin Crowne climbs onto the apron and calls ‘Honest’ Abe toward him, protesting Mordred’s conduct.
The referee turns to order him down.
Inside the ring, Mordred delivers another dropkick to the Sheriff, then watches the champion roll toward the ropes while the argument delays the referee’s return.
Crowne steps down only after another warning.
Julian Ward: “Crowne is occupying the referee while the match continues. Mordred landed the dropkick, but the champion has gained time to retreat.”
Brick Brody: “A manager doesn’t always need a weapon. Sometimes he just needs to make everybody wait.”
Minute 10
The Sheriff rises from the ropes and attempts to move past the challenger.
Mordred pivots and delivers another dropkick.
The champion turns his shoulder to lessen the impact, but the strike still knocks him down.
Mordred rises and stays close.
Julian Ward: “Repeated dropkicks are keeping the Sheriff from establishing his preferred range. Mordred continues to dictate these exchanges.”
Brick Brody: “The champion needs to stop walking into them. Make him miss once and punish the landing.”
Minute 11
The Sheriff gets hold of Mordred and delivers another snap brainbuster.
He remains seated afterward, recovering before pulling the challenger up.
Mordred breaks free of his grasp, creates a step of distance, and lands a dropkick that sends the champion backward again.
Julian Ward: “A brainbuster and a dropkick leave both men struggling to maintain control. Neither has secured the opening fall.”
Brick Brody: “The Sheriff is landing heavy enough. His problem is what happens afterward. Mordred keeps getting the next word.”
Minute 12
Mordred moves behind the champion and secures an inverted facelock.
He attempts to lift for the inverted DDT.
The Sheriff lowers his hips and catches the controlling arm, preventing the elevation.
He turns free and backs away.
Julian Ward: “The champion prevents the lifting inverted DDT. He denied the lift before Mordred could place him at risk.”
Brick Brody: “That’s a necessary stop. You don’t have to answer every move with something spectacular. Sometimes staying off your head is enough.”
Minute 13
Mordred pursues.
A clothesline catches the Sheriff before he can settle near the corner.
The champion drops onto his back and rolls toward the bottom rope.
Severin Crowne leans closer from the floor, speaking sharply.
Julian Ward: “Another clothesline keeps the champion retreating. Mordred has been quicker to re-engage throughout much of this first fall.”
Brick Brody: “And Crowne knows it. You can hear him trying to get his man moving before the challenger does.”
Minute 14
Mordred brings the Sheriff up and attempts a vertical suplex.
The champion blocks the lift, pulls free of the facelock, and forces Mordred forward.
He gathers the challenger around the waist, raises him, and delivers a powerbomb.
Mordred strikes the canvas with his arms flung outward.
Julian Ward: “A substantial reversal. The attempted suplex has become a powerbomb from the champion.”
Brick Brody: “That’s the kind of answer he needed. Make Mordred hesitate before trying to lift him again.”
Minute 15
After a cautious reset, the Sheriff lifts Mordred across his shoulders.
Execution Order lands, the Death Valley Driver driving the challenger into the mat.
The champion takes time to rise.
When he attempts to continue, Mordred fights into position, catches him bent forward, and delivers a sitout powerbomb.
Both men remain seated or sprawled after the exchange.
Julian Ward: “Execution Order is answered by a sitout powerbomb. The punishment is accumulating before either man has taken a fall.”
Brick Brody: “Somebody’s going to win this first fall with very little left. Then he still has another one to earn.”
Minute 16
Mordred approaches with another clothesline.
The Sheriff ducks beneath the arm and moves clear.
Mordred turns to follow, but the champion has already created enough distance to reset.
Crowne gestures for the Sheriff to remain patient.
Julian Ward: “The champion avoids the clothesline completely. He is beginning to recognise the challenger’s approach.”
Brick Brody: “Recognition only matters if he uses it. Now make Mordred turn and work instead of standing still for the next shot.”
Minute 17
Mordred changes his angle and closes again.
The Sheriff raises his arms, but the clothesline breaks through and knocks him down.
Mordred drops into a cover.
One.
Two—
The champion kicks out.
Julian Ward: “The first pin attempt produces a two-count. Mordred adjusted his approach and made the clothesline count.”
Brick Brody: “Good cover, too. He got his weight across the chest before the Sheriff could roll away.”
Minute 18
Mordred lands another dropkick, sending the champion toward the ropes.
The Sheriff slips outside.
When Mordred follows, Crowne catches him behind the referee’s sightline and delivers a DDT onto the ringside floor.
Crowne withdraws as ‘Honest’ Abe comes across.
After both competitors return inside, Mordred manages to pull the champion into a strained cover.
One—
The Sheriff kicks out.
Julian Ward: “Crowne’s DDT on the floor has badly disrupted the challenger. Mordred still attempted the cover, but could not hold the champion.”
Brick Brody: “That’s what help at ringside buys you. Mordred had the attack going his way, and now he’s trying to wrestle with his head ringing.”
Minute 19
The Sheriff catches Mordred alongside him and delivers a Russian legsweep.
He pulls the challenger up afterward, but Mordred turns the struggle, lifting the champion into an inverted sitdown faceslam.
The Sheriff hits the canvas face-first.
Mordred remains seated, gathering his breath.
Julian Ward: “The challenger continues to answer despite the interference. That faceslam has stopped the champion from building on the legsweep.”
Brick Brody: “He’s stubborn. Useful quality in a fight—provided his body can keep paying for it.”
Minute 20
Both men rise slowly.
They circle, reaching and withdrawing without committing.
Then Mordred catches the champion’s legs.
The Sheriff tries to kick him away, but Mordred steps through, crosses the legs, and turns him over.
The Sharpshooter is locked in.
Mordred settles his weight.
The champion reaches toward the ropes.
He cannot reach them.
The Sheriff submits.
‘Honest’ Abe calls for the bell, and Mordred releases.
Julian Ward: “The first fall belongs to Mordred, by submission. He returned to the Sharpshooter and secured it away from the ropes.”
Brick Brody: “Now the champion has to win two straight. And he has to do it with those legs already worked over.”
Louie Linville: “The winner of the first fall, by submission… Mordred! Mordred leads, one fall to none!”
Minute 21
Following the referee’s separation, the contest resumes.
The Sheriff moves out of his corner.
Mordred drives through him with a spear.
He immediately hooks the leg.
One.
Two—
The champion kicks out.
Julian Ward: “Mordred nearly takes the second fall immediately. The champion survives, but he had no answer to the spear.”
Brick Brody: “That was the right time to attack him. Don’t let a man recover just because he’s already surrendered once.”
Minute 22
The Sheriff reaches for a sleeper as Mordred closes.
Mordred turns beneath the arm and lowers his shoulder, attempting another spear.
The champion shifts aside before contact.
Neither attack is completed.
They separate, both breathing heavily.
Julian Ward: “Neither man finds the necessary position. The sleeper fails to close, and Mordred cannot connect with the spear.”
Brick Brody: “They’re both looking for something decisive. That’s when a little patience can make the other man walk into it.”
Minute 23
The Sheriff secures a front facelock and delivers a snap brainbuster.
He rises with difficulty, pulling Mordred upward.
The challenger fights into a facelock of his own and lifts the champion into a vertical suplex.
The landing leaves both men down.
Julian Ward: “A heavy exchange in the second fall. Mordred has the lead, but the champion is still inflicting damage.”
Brick Brody: “That lead won’t protect his neck. The Sheriff needs to keep reminding him of that.”
Minute 24
Mordred takes hold of the champion and positions him for the Downward Spiral.
The Sheriff grabs at his arms, trying to prevent the fall.
Mordred maintains control and drives him face-first into the canvas.
Crowne grips the edge of the apron.
Julian Ward: “The Downward Spiral lands despite the champion’s resistance. Mordred continues to create the more consistent offence.”
Brick Brody: “And he’s forcing Crowne to watch his investment get battered. The Sheriff needs a proper answer.”
Minute 25
The Sheriff catches Mordred close to the ropes and moves him sideways.
Mordred widens his stance, attempting to stop the trip.
The champion hooks the leg and completes the Russian legsweep.
He rolls onto his stomach afterward, pushing himself up slowly.
Julian Ward: “The champion regains an opening with the legsweep. His recovery remains laboured after the first-fall submission.”
Brick Brody: “He can hurt him without being comfortable. Keep the work simple and keep putting him down.”
Minute 26
The Sheriff advances and swings a lariat.
Mordred raises his guard but cannot deflect the blow.
The challenger is driven onto his back.
The champion stands over him briefly before reaching down.
Julian Ward: “The lariat gives the Sheriff consecutive attacks. Mordred was unable to turn away from the impact.”
Brick Brody: “That’s better. Stop letting him answer every time. Make him spend a minute wondering how to get up.”
Minute 27
The Sheriff pulls Mordred into another snap brainbuster.
The challenger rolls onto his side after landing.
When the champion follows, Mordred struggles upright, secures the head, and turns into a swinging neckbreaker.
Both men fall.
Julian Ward: “Mordred interrupts the champion’s run of offence with the swinging neckbreaker. Neither man is recovering quickly now.”
Brick Brody: “They’ve been dropping each other on their heads for nearly half an hour. Quick recovery left this match some time ago.”
Minute 28
The Sheriff reaches his feet and draws Mordred into a Russian legsweep.
He takes a moment before rising again.
That pause allows Mordred to find his footing.
As the champion approaches, Mordred lowers his shoulder and delivers another spear.
The Sheriff folds around the impact.
Julian Ward: “Another spear attacks the champion’s midsection. Mordred has repeatedly found that opening when the Sheriff moves toward him.”
Brick Brody: “And each one makes the next breath worse. The champion needs to stop giving him a straight path through his ribs.”
Minute 29
Mordred catches the Sheriff in an inverted facelock.
The champion grabs at the wrist and tries to keep his feet planted.
This time, Mordred lifts him clear and drops into the lifting inverted DDT.
The Sheriff lands hard.
Mordred remains beside him, chest heaving.
Julian Ward: “The lifting inverted DDT succeeds where it failed earlier. The champion could not prevent the elevation.”
Brick Brody: “His legs aren’t giving him the same resistance anymore. That Sharpshooter is still part of this match.”
Minute 30
The Sheriff rallies with a lariat, knocking Mordred down.
He follows, but the challenger fights back to his feet and secures a vertical suplex.
The champion is lifted and driven onto his back.
The match continues without a time-limit bell.
Julian Ward: “Thirty minutes have passed, but there is no time limit in this championship contest. Mordred still leads one fall to none.”
Brick Brody: “Nobody’s getting saved by the clock. One of them has to finish the job.”
Minute 31
The Sheriff delivers another lariat as Mordred rises.
The challenger falls near the ropes and uses them to pull himself upright.
When the champion closes again, Mordred catches him and delivers the Downward Spiral.
Both men lie still for a moment.
Julian Ward: “Another punishing exchange. The Sheriff cannot convert his lariats into sustained control.”
Brick Brody: “He’s putting him down and then walking into the reply. Hurt him, stay on him, stop giving him that second chance.”
Minute 32
Mordred reaches a crouch near the corner.
The Sheriff turns toward him.
The challenger accelerates and drives a spear into the champion’s midsection.
The Sheriff lands flat, arms wrapped around his ribs.
Mordred rolls onto one knee, exhausted by the effort.
Julian Ward: “A direct spear, and the champion had no defence for it. Mordred is close to a decisive opening if he can follow.”
Brick Brody: “He’s got the damage. He needs the cover. Those aren’t the same thing when you’re this tired.”
Minute 33
The champion retreats outside during a slow reset.
As Mordred follows near the steps, Crowne catches him and delivers another DDT on the floor while the referee’s view is obstructed by the Sheriff.
The manager backs away.
Mordred eventually returns beneath the bottom rope.
When the Sheriff attempts to haul him up, Mordred fights behind him and delivers a lifting inverted DDT.
Julian Ward: “Another floor DDT from Crowne, yet Mordred still finds an answer inside the ring. The challenger is being forced to survive two opponents.”
Brick Brody: “And the champion still can’t keep him down. Crowne is buying chances his man has to use.”
Minute 34
The Sheriff regains his feet and meets Mordred with a lariat.
The challenger takes the full impact and crashes backward.
The champion remains standing, then bends forward with his hands against his thighs.
At ringside, Crowne demands that he continue.
Julian Ward: “The lariat lands without an answer this time. Mordred’s recovery from the floor attack may finally be catching up with him.”
Brick Brody: “Then this is the moment. Don’t stand there listening to your own breathing. Get hold of him.”
Minute 35
Crowne climbs onto the apron again and draws the referee into another argument.
Inside, Mordred rises and lands a dropkick against the champion.
The Sheriff rolls toward the far ropes while Mordred, slow to stand, looks toward the distracted official.
‘Honest’ Abe finally orders Crowne down.
Julian Ward: “Another distraction interrupts the rhythm. Mordred landed the dropkick, but the champion has again found space while the referee deals with Crowne.”
Brick Brody: “It’s buying seconds. After thirty-five minutes, seconds can be worth more than another punch.”
Minute 36
The Sheriff catches Mordred, lifts him across his shoulders, and delivers Execution Order.
The Death Valley Driver lands heavily.
The champion takes several breaths before reaching to continue.
Mordred fights upright, secures a front facelock, and summons enough strength for a vertical suplex.
Both men remain down after the landing.
Julian Ward: “Execution Order could not end Mordred’s resistance. He has answered again, but that suplex required almost everything he had.”
Brick Brody: “The champion landed the right move and couldn’t get to the cover. That may haunt him.”
Minute 37
Mordred rolls outside, using the apron to steady himself.
The Sheriff sees him, backs across the ring, and charges.
He launches through the ropes with a suicide dive.
Mordred raises his arms and attempts to move, but the champion crashes into him, sending both men onto the ringside padding.
Crowne urges the Sheriff up as ‘Honest’ Abe begins counting.
Julian Ward: “The suicide dive connects. Both men are down outside, and the champion must still recover enough to bring this back into the ring.”
Brick Brody: “He threw everything he had left into that. Now drag the challenger in and make it worth the cost.”
Minute 38
The Sheriff gets Mordred beneath the bottom rope and follows.
He rises, reaching toward the challenger.
Mordred pushes up, takes a short step, and drives forward.
The champion tries to turn and brace.
The spear crashes through him.
Mordred lands across his chest and hooks the leg.
‘Honest’ Abe drops beside them.
One.
Two.
Three.
The bell rings.
Mordred has won the second fall.
Two falls to none.
Julian Ward: “The second fall belongs to Mordred. He has defeated the Sheriff of Nottingham twice and won the Eternal Flame Championship.”
Brick Brody: “The Sheriff threw himself through the ropes and still couldn’t finish him. Mordred got one more opening and drove straight through it.”
Mordred releases the leg and rolls onto his back.
The crowd rises.
At ringside, Severin Crowne stands completely still.
Louie Linville receives the decision and raises his microphone.
Louie Linville: “Ladies and gentlemen, the winner of the second fall and the match… two falls to none…”
The cheers grow.
Louie Linville: “And NEW Eternal Flame Champion… Mordred!”
‘Honest’ Abe retrieves the championship.
Mordred has reached his knees when the referee places it into his hands.
He looks down at the centre plate.
Then he begins to stand.
Severin Crowne slides into the ring behind him.
A forearm strikes Mordred across the upper back.
The new champion drops forward, the belt falling from his hands.
Julian Ward: “Crowne has attacked him. The match is over.”
Brick Brody: “He waited until Mordred had the championship in his hands. He wants to take the celebration away before it starts.”
‘Honest’ Abe moves between them.
Crowne steps around him and drives a boot into Mordred’s ribs.
Near the ropes, the beaten Sheriff pulls himself upright.
He sees the challenger on the canvas.
Then he joins the attack.
The crowd’s cheers become furious boos.
Mordred tries to rise beneath the blows, catching the Sheriff around the waist.
Before he can do more, movement at the entrance draws the camera.
Sir Agravaine and Tin Man are coming down the ramp.
They do not pause.
Julian Ward: “Sir Agravaine and Tin Man are joining them. This is becoming a four-man assault on a man who has just wrestled thirty-eight minutes.”
Sir Agravaine enters first and strikes Mordred across the shoulders.
Tin Man steps through the ropes and seizes the new champion, pulling him upright.
Mordred drives an elbow backward.
The grip loosens briefly.
The Sheriff answers with a blow to the stomach, folding him forward again.
Crowne points toward the centre.
Tin Man drags Mordred away from the ropes while Sir Agravaine takes hold of one arm.
Julian Ward: “The Huntsman is not with them. Four members of the Shadow Court are here, and he is conspicuously absent.”
Brick Brody: “Four are plenty against a man who can barely stand. They’re making sure that winning the title doesn’t mean he gets to walk out comfortably.”
Crowne picks up the Eternal Flame Championship.
He studies the centre plate, then looks toward Mordred.
The new champion struggles against the men holding him.
Crowne takes a step forward with the belt.
A roar rises from the entrance side of the arena.
Blood-Moon Warden bursts onto the stage.
He runs down the ramp.
Julian Ward: “Blood-Moon Warden is coming.”
Crowne turns.
The Warden slides beneath the bottom rope and rises directly into Sir Agravaine, striking him with a forearm that breaks his grip on Mordred.
A second blow drives the knight backward.
Tin Man releases the new champion and advances.
Blood-Moon Warden meets him with a front kick, forcing him back a step.
Behind him, Mordred drops to one knee.
The Sheriff moves toward the Warden’s blind side.
Mordred catches his leg.
The former champion stumbles, and Blood-Moon Warden turns into him with a clothesline that sends him through the ropes to the floor.
Brick Brody: “That’s what the fresh man changes. They had Mordred held still. Now somebody’s hitting back.”
Sir Agravaine charges.
The Warden sidesteps and drives him shoulder-first into the turnbuckles, then turns to face Tin Man again.
Crowne backs toward the ropes, still holding the championship.
Mordred sees him.
He forces himself upright and catches the other end of the belt.
For a moment, both men hold it.
Crowne looks from Mordred to Blood-Moon Warden, who has moved alongside the new champion.
He releases the championship.
Then he steps through the ropes.
Severin Crowne: “Enough. Out.”
Sir Agravaine withdraws from the corner.
Tin Man remains facing Blood-Moon Warden for another moment before backing toward the ropes.
The Warden does not pursue.
He stays between the departing attackers and Mordred.
Outside, the Sheriff leans against the apron, staring up at the championship he has lost.
Crowne places a hand against his chest and directs him toward the ramp.
The four men regroup.
There is still no sign of The Huntsman.
Inside the ring, Mordred’s knees begin to give.
Blood-Moon Warden catches him beneath one arm and steadies him.
Mordred keeps hold of the title.
He looks toward the retreating Shadow Court, then briefly toward the man beside him.
A small nod passes between them.
‘Honest’ Abe approaches to check the new champion as Blood-Moon Warden continues watching the aisle.
Julian Ward: “Mordred won the Eternal Flame Championship by taking both falls. The attack afterward does not change that result. Blood-Moon Warden’s arrival has allowed him to remain in this ring with the title he earned.”
Brick Brody: “He earned the championship, and then he found out what the king’s friends do when they lose one. He’d better remember who came running, because carrying that belt just became a dangerous occupation.”
Julian Ward: “Earlier tonight, Mordred said the Sheriff came first. That task is complete. Now he holds a championship taken from the Shadow Court, with an ally beside him and their attention fixed upon both.”
RESULT: MORDRED DEFEATS SHERIFF OF NOTTINGHAM TWO FALLS TO NONE TO WIN THE ETERNAL FLAME CHAMPIONSHIP. FIRST FALL: SUBMISSION VIA SHARPSHOOTER AT THE 20-MINUTE MARK. SECOND FALL: PINFALL FOLLOWING A SPEAR IN THE 38TH MINUTE.
The cameras return to the entrance stage.
Lion’s music rises through the Coliseum.
He emerges alone.
For a moment, he stands beneath the archway, looking toward the ring. Then he squares his shoulders and begins walking.
The crowd reaches toward him along the aisle. Lion acknowledges them with a brief nod, but his attention quickly returns to the contest ahead.
Julian Ward: “At Age of Ruin, Lion approached Tin Man expecting help and was attacked by the partner he trusted. Tonight, he faces a very different danger.”
Brick Brody: “And this one won’t pretend to be his friend first. Lion knows exactly what’s coming down that ramp after him. He needs to concern himself with that.”
Lion climbs the steps and enters the ring.
He moves toward the centre, flexes his hands, then turns toward the entrance.
The arena lighting dims.
A low mechanical pulse accompanies a wash of cold light across the stage.
Dr. Frankenstein emerges with his hands clasped behind his back.
He surveys the ring, smiles, and steps aside.
Frankenstein’s Monster appears behind him.
The enormous figure pauses beneath the entrance arch before beginning a heavy, deliberate march toward the ring.
Dr. Frankenstein walks beside him, speaking quietly without looking up.
Julian Ward: “Earlier, Dr. Frankenstein interrupted John Henry’s request for championship competition. He told the Steel Driver to watch what his so-called Alpha Monster would do to Lion.”
Brick Brody: “Then John Henry ought to be paying attention. You can learn a great deal about a potential opponent by watching what happens to somebody else.”
At ringside, Frankenstein’s Monster stops and looks up at Lion.
Lion holds his ground.
The doctor gestures toward the steps.
His creation climbs, passes through the ropes, and advances until ‘Fast Count’ Frank places himself between the competitors.
Dr. Frankenstein remains outside, studying Lion with the same clinical interest he showed backstage.
Louie Linville raises his microphone.
Louie Linville: “Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for one fall.”
He gestures toward Lion.
Louie Linville: “Introducing first… Lion!”
A strong cheer rises from the audience.
Lion lifts his chin, eyes remaining on his opponent.
Louie Linville: “And his opponent… accompanied by Dr. Frankenstein… Frankenstein’s Monster!”
The Monster stands motionless.
At ringside, the doctor inclines his head.
Louie Linville: “Your referee… ‘Fast Count’ Frank.”
The announcer exits.
The referee completes his checks and calls for the bell.
Minute 1
Neither competitor immediately commits.
Lion circles, keeping his hands raised while Frankenstein’s Monster follows with short, measured steps.
They close.
The Monster forces Lion forward in the struggle and brings a massive forearm down across his back.
Heavy Hand lands between the shoulders.
Lion drops to one knee, his face tightening as the Monster stands over him.
Julian Ward: “Heavy Hand breaks the opening stalemate. Frankenstein’s Monster forced Lion into a position where he could bring that weight down across the back.”
Brick Brody: “One blow and Lion’s already kneeling. That’s the problem with this opponent. Every mistake comes with an enormous amount of weight behind it.”
Minute 2
Frankenstein’s Monster pulls Lion upright and gathers him across his chest.
Lion braces against the shoulders, trying to shift his weight and slide free.
The Monster tightens his grip.
He throws himself backward and launches Lion across the canvas with Stitched Slam.
The fallaway slam sends Lion rolling toward the ropes.
Dr. Frankenstein watches without moving.
Julian Ward: “Stitched Slam carries Lion across the ring. He attempted to adjust during the lift, but the Monster maintained control.”
Brick Brody: “Once those arms close, struggling isn’t enough. Lion needs to stop the grip before he’s being carried around like that.”
Minute 3
Lion works behind Frankenstein’s Monster and begins threading his arms upward for a full nelson.
Before he can lock his hands, Dr. Frankenstein steps close to the apron.
He calls sharply toward Lion, drawing his attention for an instant.
The Monster turns through the incomplete hold, catches Lion around the waist, and folds him into a roll-up.
‘Fast Count’ Frank drops quickly.
One. Two—
Lion kicks free.
He rolls onto a knee and looks toward the doctor.
Julian Ward: “The full nelson never closed. Dr. Frankenstein’s distraction allowed his creation to turn directly into a pinning combination.”
Brick Brody: “And nearly steal the match. Lion can glare at the doctor afterward. While he’s wrestling, his eyes need to stay on the man who can pin him.”
Minute 4
Frankenstein’s Monster crowds Lion as he attempts to rise.
Lion loses his footing in the scramble and rolls onto his back.
The Monster raises an elbow.
Lion tries to turn clear, but the elbow drop lands across his upper torso before he can escape.
He curls onto his side, drawing both arms against his ribs.
Julian Ward: “The elbow drop lands before Lion can roll away. The Monster has maintained control through these opening minutes.”
Brick Brody: “He’s making the ring feel small. Lion tries to move, and there’s another heavy body part coming down on him.”
Minute 5
The Monster hauls Lion up and drives him toward the ropes.
With a forceful heave, he throws him out of the ring.
Lion crashes onto the ringside padding.
‘Fast Count’ Frank begins counting.
One. Two. Three.
Lion rolls onto his stomach.
Four. Five. Six.
He reaches for the apron and pulls himself to one knee.
Seven. Eight.
Lion pushes off the floor and slides beneath the bottom rope.
Nine.
The referee stops the count.
Julian Ward: “Lion returns at nine. He had very little time to recover from that landing before the count became critical.”
Brick Brody: “He knows who the referee is. Get up, get in, and deal with the pain afterward. Staying outside wasn’t going to help him.”
Minute 6
Both men reset, Lion remaining close to the ropes until he can steady himself.
He then circles behind the Monster and again reaches for the full nelson.
Dr. Frankenstein moves into his peripheral vision, lifting a hand and speaking toward him.
Lion hesitates before completing the clasp.
The Monster turns, gathers him into another roll-up, and presses his shoulders toward the canvas.
One. Two—
Lion kicks out again.
Julian Ward: “The same interruption has produced another near fall. Lion has twice attempted the full nelson and twice been diverted before securing it.”
Brick Brody: “Then stop looking at the doctor. He’s shown you what he’s doing. You don’t get to be surprised by it forever.”
Minute 7
Lion struggles toward the ropes.
The Monster advances, drawing ‘Fast Count’ Frank across the ring as the referee attempts to keep space around the recovering wrestler.
Behind the official’s back, Dr. Frankenstein lifts a folded chair and drives it into Lion’s back through the ropes.
Lion recoils and collapses inward.
The chair disappears below the apron.
Frankenstein’s Monster turns Lion onto his back and covers.
One. Two—
Lion forces a shoulder upward.
The doctor’s expression tightens.
Julian Ward: “A chair strike from Dr. Frankenstein, followed immediately by the cover. Lion has survived, but this has been far more than a contest against the Monster’s strength.”
Brick Brody: “The doctor promised a demonstration. Apparently, he doesn’t mind helping it along. Lion is still alive in the match, but he’s taking a beating from both sides of the ropes.”
Minute 8
The Monster remains low after the failed cover.
Lion rolls clear and pulls himself upright in the corner.
He climbs.
Dr. Frankenstein calls a warning as Lion reaches the top turnbuckle.
Lion’s Leap.
Lion launches into the top-rope splash, crashing across the Monster’s torso and driving him flat beneath the impact.
The crowd surges to its feet.
Lion rolls away, clutching his own ribs after the landing.
Julian Ward: “Lion’s Leap connects. Lion has finally created a substantial opening, but the damage to his own body prevents an immediate follow-up.”
Brick Brody: “That splash hurt both of them. Still, it put the big man on his back. Now Lion has to find enough left to keep him there.”
Minute 9
Frankenstein’s Monster rises and catches Lion approaching.
He gathers him across his chest and delivers another Stitched Slam.
Lion lands heavily and rolls toward the corner.
The Monster follows.
Using the ropes to regain his feet, Lion catches the approaching giant in a front facelock.
He braces, lifts with a tremendous effort, and delivers a brainbuster.
The Monster crashes into the canvas.
Lion falls beside him, breathing hard.
Julian Ward: “An extraordinary lift from Lion. He has answered the fallaway slam with a brainbuster on an opponent of immense size.”
Brick Brody: “That took everything through his back and legs. Impressive—but he doesn’t win for proving he can lift him. He needs to do something with the opening.”
Minute 10
The Monster reaches his feet and intercepts Lion, pulling him against his side.
Deadweight Drop.
The sidewalk slam drives Lion into the canvas beneath the giant’s weight.
The Monster rises slowly.
Lion pushes himself onto one knee, then upward, meeting the next approach with Lion’s Roar.
The attack catches the Monster and forces him backward.
Lion staggers after delivering it, unable to maintain his balance for long.
Julian Ward: “Lion’s Roar answers Deadweight Drop. Lion has fought his way into this contest, but the early punishment remains evident every time he tries to follow an attack.”
Brick Brody: “He’s producing these bursts on a body that’s already been hammered. The Monster only needs him to slow down once.”
Minute 11
Lion attempts to move forward.
His legs falter, and he drops toward the canvas, trying to brace himself on one arm.
Frankenstein’s Monster steps over him.
The giant lowers his weight into another elbow drop.
It lands across Lion’s chest.
Lion’s body recoils beneath the impact.
The Monster turns across him and presses his shoulders down.
‘Fast Count’ Frank slides into position.
One. Two. Three.
The bell rings.
Julian Ward: “The elbow drop ends it. Lion could not escape the cover after another heavy impact to the torso.”
Brick Brody: “He made the big man work in those last few minutes, but he couldn’t undo what happened in the first seven. That damage stayed with him.”
Frankenstein’s Monster rises from the cover.
Lion remains on his back, one arm drawn across his chest.
The referee kneels to check him.
Louie Linville raises his microphone.
Louie Linville: “Ladies and gentlemen, your winner, by pinfall… Frankenstein’s Monster!”
Dr. Frankenstein climbs the steps.
He enters and moves beside his creation, looking down at Lion before turning toward the nearest camera.
The doctor adjusts his cuffs.
Then he smiles.
Dr. Frankenstein: “I trust you were watching, John Henry.”
The Monster stands behind him, chest rising and falling.
Lion rolls onto his side as ‘Fast Count’ Frank continues speaking to him.
The doctor gives his creation a small gesture toward the ropes.
They leave together.
At the foot of the ramp, Dr. Frankenstein looks back once, apparently satisfied with the sight of Lion still struggling to sit upright.
Julian Ward: “Frankenstein’s Monster takes the victory. Lion mounted a determined response, but repeated interference from Dr. Frankenstein, including a chair strike, helped establish the damage that decided the contest.”
Brick Brody: “And John Henry should remember all of it. The size, the strength, and the doctor outside. If he accepts that challenge, he’s accepting the whole problem.”
Julian Ward: “The doctor has delivered the result he promised. Whether it changes John Henry’s answer remains to be seen. Lion, meanwhile, leaves another difficult night bearing the cost.”
RESULT: FRANKENSTEIN’S MONSTER DEFEATS LION VIA PINFALL FOLLOWING AN ELBOW DROP IN THE 11TH MINUTE.
The cameras return backstage.
Hana Nakamura stands beside her brother beneath a stone archway, away from the traffic surrounding the entrance tunnel.
Raigen, the Maryu, stands with his arms resting at his sides. Faint bruising remains visible from Age of Ruin. He carries himself steadily, but there is a stiffness when he turns toward her.
Hana notices.
She raises her microphone.
Hana Nakamura: “At Age of Ruin, you faced Taro Okami in a match that placed much more than your own future at risk.”
“If you had lost, the debt to the Blood Oni would have bound you for a hundred years and reached into the lives of your descendants.”
She pauses, her professional composure briefly giving way to something more personal.
Hana Nakamura: “I knew what you were fighting for. That did not make it easy to watch.”
Raigen looks at her.
Raigen: “It was not an easy thing to ask you to watch.”
Hana Nakamura: “You won. But after everything that happened between you and Taro, did it feel like a victory?”
Raigen considers the question.
Raigen: “When the referee counted three, I knew my family was free of that debt.”
“That mattered.”
His gaze lowers briefly.
Raigen: “But Taro was still lying in front of me. Winning the match did not undo what had been done to him.”
“It gave us a chance to help.”
Hana Nakamura: “How is he?”
The arena sound fades beneath a low chant.
The picture changes.
Inside the House of the Dragon’s Veil, Taro Okami sits upon a woven mat at the centre of an ancient chamber.
Monks surround him in a wide circle.
Their voices rise and settle together, measured and unhurried. Candlelight moves across carved pillars. Thin trails of incense drift through the still air.
Taro’s hands rest loosely upon his knees.
His eyes are closed.
The tension that once held his jaw and shoulders has eased. He sits without restraints, breathing slowly, his face peaceful beneath the warm light.
A monk passes behind him and takes a place within the circle.
The chanting continues.
Taro does not move.
The broadcast returns to Hana and Raigen.
For a moment, Hana looks toward the monitor beside the camera.
Hana Nakamura: “He looks at peace.”
Raigen: “He is finding stillness.”
“The cleansing of his essence will begin soon. First, he must centre himself.”
Hana Nakamura: “So the cleansing has not started?”
Raigen: “Not yet.”
“He has spent too long answering anger, pain, and the demands of the Blood Oni Syndicate. The monks are giving him time to listen without any of those voices telling him what he must become.”
Hana Nakamura: “And you believe he can come back from this?”
Raigen: “I believe he deserves the chance.”
A brief silence follows.
Raigen: “He went with them. He is there now, doing what they ask.”
“That is where we begin.”
Hana nods, visibly reassured by the image without mistaking it for a completed recovery.
She turns fully toward her brother again.
Hana Nakamura: “Then what comes next for you? With that match behind you and Taro in the care of the Dragon’s Veil, where does the Maryu go from here?”
Raigen draws breath to answer.
Footsteps interrupt.
Sir Galahad: “There is a more immediate question.”
The camera widens.
Sir Galahad and Sir Gawain have entered the interview area.
The Virtuous Blades stop before Raigen, leaving little space between them and the microphone.
Hana turns toward them.
Hana Nakamura: “We are conducting an interview.”
Sir Gawain: “Then this can be included.”
Sir Galahad keeps his attention upon Raigen.
Sir Galahad: “Have you acknowledged King Arthur?”
Raigen looks from one knight to the other.
He says nothing.
Sir Galahad: “His Majesty addressed the division tonight. His expectations were clear.”
The silence continues.
Sir Gawain steps closer.
Sir Gawain: “You were asked a question.”
Raigen remains still.
His eyes settle upon the knight now standing directly before him.
Hana Nakamura: “And he heard it. There is no need to crowd him.”
Sir Galahad: “This concerns every competitor in Camelot.”
He moves slightly to one side, placing himself at an angle to Raigen while Sir Gawain remains in front.
Sir Galahad: “Whatever obligations you have settled elsewhere, you compete here under the king’s authority.”
Sir Gawain: “Silence is a poor way to demonstrate respect.”
Raigen’s hands remain open at his sides.
His shoulders have settled.
Hana lowers the microphone slightly, watching the space close around her brother.
Sir Gawain reaches toward Raigen’s shoulder.
Another voice stops him.
Takuma Ryujin: “He heard you.”
Takuma Ryujin steps into frame.
He moves past the edge of the interview backdrop and takes his place beside Raigen, facing the knights.
Sir Gawain’s hand lowers.
Takuma notices it.
So does Raigen.
For several seconds, none of the four men speaks.
Hana shifts clear of the space between them, keeping the microphone raised.
Sir Galahad: “This does not require your involvement.”
Takuma Ryujin: “Then finish speaking.”
The knight’s expression hardens.
Sir Gawain looks between the two men before him. The easy pressure of two against one has disappeared.
He takes half a step back.
Sir Galahad remains in place a moment longer.
Sir Galahad: “Neither of you is exempt from the order established tonight.”
“See that you show proper obedience to King Arthur.”
Sir Gawain: “Both of you.”
He looks directly at Raigen.
Sir Gawain: “Do not mistake our courtesy for permission to ignore him.”
Takuma holds his gaze.
Raigen offers no acknowledgment.
The silence stretches until Sir Galahad turns.
Sir Gawain follows, looking back once before the Virtuous Blades disappear down the corridor.
The camera remains with the interview.
Hana watches them leave, then turns toward her brother.
Hana Nakamura: “They came here to demand an answer.”
Raigen: “They came here to see whether I would lower my head.”
He looks briefly toward Takuma.
A small nod passes between them.
Takuma Ryujin: “They will remember that you did not.”
Raigen: “So will I.”
Hana raises the microphone again, but pauses when she sees both men watching the corridor.
The interview’s earlier calm has gone.
Raigen and Takuma remain shoulder to shoulder as the camera fades.
The camera settles upon the empty ring.
The main-event graphic appears above the entrance.
Sir Agravaine. Severin Crowne. Tin Man.
Opposite them:
Allan A Dale. Friar Tuck. Little John.
Julian Ward: “This was supposed to be a championship opportunity for Friar Tuck and Little John. Instead, they and Allan A Dale have been ordered to face three men responsible for carrying Robin Hood away in chains.”
Brick Brody: “And they’ve spent the night waiting to get their hands on them. That anger can make them dangerous. It can also make them careless, and Severin Crowne knows the difference.”
A black business card fills the entrance screens.
Severin Crowne emerges, now prepared to compete.
Sir Agravaine stands to his right.
Tin Man stands to his left.
The three pause beneath the archway.
Crowne surveys the crowd, his expression composed despite the loss of the Eternal Flame Championship earlier in the evening.
He gestures toward the ring.
They advance together.
Julian Ward: “The Shadow Court has already suffered a significant defeat tonight. Mordred took the Eternal Flame Championship from the Sheriff of Nottingham, and their subsequent assault was stopped by Blood-Moon Warden.”
Brick Brody: “Which means these three have another reason to make this ugly. They came here announcing control. They don’t want to leave with people questioning it.”
Sir Agravaine climbs the steps first.
Tin Man follows.
Crowne enters last, briefly inspecting the opposite corner before speaking to his partners.
There is no sign of The Huntsman.
The music changes.
The familiar sound of Sherwood whistles rises through the building.
Allan A Dale, Friar Tuck, and Little John emerge.
There is no song from Allan.
No smile from Tuck.
Little John carries his staff to the edge of the stage, then hands it to an attendant without taking his eyes off Tin Man.
The crowd begins chanting Robin Hood’s name.
The three men stand together for a moment, listening.
Then they walk.
Julian Ward: “The Merry Band enters without its leader. This match cannot free him, but they have an opportunity to answer the men who helped imprison him.”
Brick Brody: “Then answer them properly. Make the tags. Keep somebody fresh. Don’t throw away a chance to hurt these men because you’re in a hurry.”
At ringside, Little John moves directly toward Tin Man’s side of the ring.
Friar Tuck catches his arm.
They exchange a look.
Little John nods once and joins his partners at their corner.
Inside, ‘Honest’ Abe keeps Crowne back as the Merry Band enters.
Louie Linville raises his microphone.
Louie Linville: “Ladies and gentlemen, this is your main event.”
“The following six-man tag team contest is scheduled for one fall, with a forty-five-minute time limit.”
He turns toward the royal faction.
Louie Linville: “Introducing first… Severin Crowne… Sir Agravaine… and Tin Man… the Shadow Court!”
The boos intensify.
Crowne inclines his head.
Louie Linville: “And their opponents… Allan A Dale… Friar Tuck… and Little John… the Merry Band!”
The response shakes the Coliseum.
Louie Linville: “Your referee… ‘Honest’ Abe!”
Allan A Dale remains inside.
Across from him, Severin Crowne steps forward.
Crowne speaks quietly enough that the microphones barely catch him.
Severin Crowne: “Try to conduct yourself with dignity.”
Allan stares at him.
The bell rings.
Minute 1
Crowne catches Allan reaching and pulls him forward into Policy Adjustment.
The elbow crashes against the side of the neck.
Allan attempts to shield himself, but the strike drives him onto one knee.
Crowne remains close, denying him room to straighten.
Julian Ward: “Crowne targets the neck immediately. He is trying to establish control before Allan can turn his anger into forward momentum.”
Brick Brody: “He wants the head lowered and the body following it. That’s how you make an angry man fight at your pace.”
Minute 2
Allan answers with a knee lift to the midsection.
As Crowne folds, Friar Tuck enters.
Tuck catches his legs, takes him down, and slingshots him toward the turnbuckles.
Crowne strikes the corner before turning back toward the ring.
‘Honest’ Abe orders Tuck outside.
Allan remains legal.
Julian Ward: “A knee lift and slingshot punish Crowne, but there was no tag. The referee is restoring the proper separation.”
Brick Brody: “They weren’t going to wait long to get their hands on him. Now keep the advantage without getting yourselves thrown out.”
Minute 3
Crowne catches Allan in the Majority Drop and snaps him down with the neckbreaker.
He rises slowly after the corner impact.
Allan fights back upright, secures his opening, and delivers Final Verse.
Crowne lands hard and rolls away, his composure briefly broken.
Julian Ward: “Final Verse answers the Majority Drop. Allan is refusing to allow Crowne an uncontested exchange.”
Brick Brody: “Good. Make him feel every minute he spends in there. He’s been giving orders all night; now he has to take some punishment himself.”
Minute 4
Crowne draws Allan into an abdominal stretch near the ropes.
With ‘Honest’ Abe checking the challenger’s face, Crowne reaches backward and grips the top strand.
The added leverage twists Allan’s torso.
Crowne releases the rope before the referee changes position, then breaks the hold and tags Sir Agravaine.
Julian Ward: “The rope supplied extra leverage behind the referee’s back. Crowne leaves after making Allan absorb that pressure.”
Brick Brody: “Use what’s available, then bring in somebody fresh. That’s efficient work.”
Minute 5
Sir Agravaine reaches for a rolling cutter.
Allan catches the controlling arm and refuses to rotate.
He lowers his weight, pulls his head free, and steps away before the knight can complete the move.
Friar Tuck calls from the apron.
Julian Ward: “Allan prevents the rolling cutter before it develops. He needed that clean defensive stop after the stretch.”
Brick Brody: “He can’t keep taking neck attacks and expect to fight three men indefinitely. Stop the grip early.”
Minute 6
Allan closes on Sir Agravaine and drives a knee upward into his abdomen.
The knight bends forward.
Allan keeps a hand on his shoulder, turning him away from the Shadow Court’s corner.
Little John pounds the turnbuckle pad, urging him on.
Julian Ward: “The knee lift gives Allan control of the position. He is keeping Agravaine from making an immediate exchange.”
Brick Brody: “Make the fresh man breathe hard before you let him leave. Otherwise, you spend the night fighting somebody who’s rested.”
Minute 7
Sir Agravaine catches Allan and lifts him over his shoulder.
The back-to-belly piledriver drives Allan into the canvas.
The knight takes time to rise.
Allan struggles upright and lands a dropkick, forcing Agravaine backward.
The knight reaches his corner and tags Tin Man.
Julian Ward: “A damaging piledriver, but Allan still finds a response. Tin Man now enters.”
Brick Brody: “And listen to this building. They remember exactly what those hands were doing to Robin Hood.”
Minute 8
Tin Man takes Allan down with a legsweep.
When he follows toward the ropes, Allan regains his feet, catches his momentum, and throws him outside.
‘Honest’ Abe begins counting.
Tin Man rises slowly.
At eight, he climbs back through the ropes.
Little John watches from the apron, jaw clenched.
Julian Ward: “Allan sends Tin Man to the floor after absorbing the legsweep. The count reaches eight before he returns.”
Brick Brody: “Keep him moving. Make that big body work every time it wants to get near you.”
Minute 9
Allan catches Tin Man entering range and secures the head.
Tin Man tries to brace, but Allan turns through the Travelling Troubador.
The swinging neckbreaker brings him down.
Allan rises beside him, breathing hard but remaining aggressive.
Julian Ward: “The Travelling Troubador lands. Allan controlled the head tightly enough to overcome the attempt to resist.”
Brick Brody: “He’s making Tin Man wrestle backward. That’s where the Merry Band wants him—reacting, not grabbing.”
Minute 10
Allan pulls Tin Man forward and closes both arms around his waist.
He braces, lifts, and delivers a gutwrench suplex.
The effort leaves Allan on one knee.
Tin Man rolls onto his side.
Crowne extends a hand from the opposite corner.
Julian Ward: “A substantial lift from Allan, who has now controlled several exchanges against Tin Man.”
Brick Brody: “But he’s spending himself to do it. He’s got two partners. At some point, he needs to use them.”
Minute 11
Tin Man catches Allan with another legsweep.
Allan recovers as the larger man follows and gathers him into a scoop powerslam.
He covers immediately.
One—
Tin Man kicks out.
He withdraws toward his corner and tags Sir Agravaine.
Julian Ward: “The powerslam earns only one. Tin Man then reaches his corner, bringing another opponent into Allan’s path.”
Brick Brody: “That’s the danger. Allan is doing good work, but their team keeps replacing the man taking it.”
Minute 12
Sir Agravaine catches Allan and delivers another over-the-shoulder back-to-belly piledriver.
As the knight rises, Tuck enters and locks him in the Keg Crusher, crushing his ribs in the bear hug.
The referee orders Tuck out.
Upon release, Allan gathers the knight’s arms and delivers the double-arm DDT.
Tuck withdraws.
Julian Ward: “Tuck’s intervention gives Allan time to recover and deliver the DDT. Allan remains the legal man.”
Brick Brody: “That bear hug made Agravaine forget about the piledriver he’d just landed. Pain changes priorities quickly.”
Minute 13
Sir Agravaine gets behind Allan and launches him with a release German suplex.
Allan lands across his shoulders and rolls toward the ropes.
When the knight follows, Allan catches both arms and answers with another double-arm DDT.
Agravaine crawls to his corner and tags Crowne.
Julian Ward: “Another exchange of heavy offence before Crowne returns. Allan has carried an extraordinary share of this contest.”
Brick Brody: “And Crowne knows exactly which part of him is hurt. He started working that neck in the first minute.”
Minute 14
Crowne pulls Allan forward and delivers a piledriver.
He attempts to continue, but Allan fights upright and lands Final Verse.
Both men fall.
This time, Allan turns toward his corner.
He reaches Little John.
The tag brings a roar from the crowd.
Julian Ward: “Little John is finally legal. Allan has created the opening after fourteen demanding minutes.”
Brick Brody: “Now use the fresh man properly. Crowne has had enough punishment to be caught, but he’s still dangerous.”
Minute 15
Little John advances directly toward Crowne.
Crowne catches an arm, takes him off balance, and traps him in the Veto.
The crossface tightens.
Tuck rushes in and breaks the hold before Crowne can force a decision.
After the referee restores order, Little John reaches the corner and tags Tuck legally.
Julian Ward: “Crowne used Little John’s forward rush against him. Tuck made the save and now enters as the legal competitor.”
Brick Brody: “That’s what anger does when somebody knows how to steer it. John walked straight into the trap.”
Minute 16
Tuck catches Crowne in a front facelock.
Crowne tries to anchor his weight, but Tuck snaps him over with a suplex.
He covers.
One—
Crowne kicks out.
Tuck keeps him away from the opposing corner, then tags Allan.
Julian Ward: “A snap suplex and immediate cover from Tuck. Allan returns after his first opportunity to recover.”
Brick Brody: “Short, hard work. That’s better than standing there trying to punish the man with your expression.”
Minute 17
Crowne catches Allan entering and delivers another piledriver.
He rises unsteadily.
Allan works back to his feet, forces Crowne forward, and answers with a piledriver of his own.
Crowne rolls toward his corner and tags Sir Agravaine.
Julian Ward: “Both men have driven the other into the canvas. Crowne takes the available exit.”
Brick Brody: “He’s not too proud to leave when he’s hurt. That matters in a match like this.”
Minute 18
Agravaine reaches for a modified cloverleaf.
Allan pulls his legs free before the hold can be established.
As they rise, Allan attempts to set Final Verse, but the knight disengages before he can complete it.
Neither attack lands.
Agravaine tags Crowne back in.
Julian Ward: “A brief defensive exchange produces no clean offence. Crowne returns almost immediately.”
Brick Brody: “They’re keeping the choice of opponent in their hands. Allan has to adjust every time.”
Minute 19
Following a cautious reset, Crowne catches Allan in the Majority Drop.
The neckbreaker lands sharply.
Allan recovers enough to meet the next approach, locks his arms around Crowne’s waist, and delivers a gutwrench suplex.
Both remain down briefly.
Julian Ward: “The attack to Allan’s neck continues, but he answers with another demanding lift.”
Brick Brody: “He’s making Crowne pay. The question is how much he’s charging himself to do it.”
Minute 20
Crowne takes Allan down and applies the Veto.
Allan refuses to submit.
He works his trapped arm loose, turns free, and gradually regains his feet.
When Crowne closes, Allan scoops him into a powerslam.
He then reaches his corner and tags Tuck.
Julian Ward: “Allan survives the crossface and lands the powerslam before leaving. He has kept his team in this contest through sustained pressure.”
Brick Brody: “Now let him breathe. His neck has taken enough work for three men.”
Minute 21
Tuck steps toward Crowne, who catches his head and turns into the Majority Drop.
Tuck braces against his opponent’s side but cannot stop the neckbreaker.
He rolls toward the ropes, then reaches his corner.
Little John takes the tag.
Julian Ward: “Crowne catches another incoming opponent. Tuck responds by making a quick change.”
Brick Brody: “That neckbreaker is becoming a toll at the door. Stop walking in upright and letting him grab you.”
Minute 22
Little John drives a heavy back smash into Crowne, forcing him forward.
Allan steps inside and gathers Crowne into a piledriver.
The impact leaves Crowne down near the Merry Band’s corner.
‘Honest’ Abe sends Allan back out.
Little John remains over the fallen opponent.
Julian Ward: “The Merry Band combines another attack without a tag. Crowne could not defend against both men.”
Brick Brody: “They’ve been waiting all night to make him helpless. They need to turn that into a fall before the referee’s patience ends.”
Minute 23
Crowne catches Little John bending forward and drives Policy Adjustment into his neck.
Little John recoils, then answers with a forearm smash that sends Crowne stumbling.
Both withdraw.
Crowne tags Sir Agravaine.
Little John tags Tuck.
Julian Ward: “Both teams change after that exchange. Little John made certain Crowne felt the answer before leaving.”
Brick Brody: “That forearm moved him. There’s a difference between telling a man you’re angry and making his legs understand it.”
Minute 24
Tuck takes Agravaine down and delivers a slingshot.
Little John joins briefly, taking the knight through a series of arm drags before the referee orders him out.
Recovering near the ropes, Agravaine catches Tuck and delivers a reverse neckbreaker across the top strand.
Tuck spills outside.
He returns at seven.
Julian Ward: “The knight answers the combined attack with the top-rope neckbreaker. Tuck beats the count, but returns feeling that impact.”
Brick Brody: “They had two men working on him and still left him close enough to use the rope. That’s an expensive mistake.”
Minute 25
All six men enter.
Agravaine delivers a pendulum backbreaker to Tuck. Crowne strikes Allan’s neck with Policy Adjustment, while Tin Man takes Little John down with a legsweep.
The Merry Band answers.
Tuck slingshots Agravaine forward. Little John drives a punch into Tin Man’s midsection. Allan throws Agravaine outside.
The referee forces the extra men back and counts.
Agravaine returns at nine.
Julian Ward: “All six men were involved, but Agravaine and Tuck remain legal. The knight narrowly avoids being counted out.”
Brick Brody: “That wasn’t pretty, and nobody expected it to be. Now somebody has to remember how to win.”
Minute 26
Agravaine lifts Tuck across his shoulders and turns him into an Argentine Blue Thunder Bomb.
Tuck lands heavily.
When the knight tries to continue, Tuck fights upright and locks in the Keg Crusher.
He compresses Agravaine’s ribs before releasing and tagging Little John.
Julian Ward: “Tuck answers the powerbomb with the bear hug, then brings his partner in.”
Brick Brody: “Squeeze the breath out of him before you leave. Make sure the next man gets somebody who’s already hurting.”
Minute 27
Agravaine catches Little John and delivers a pendulum backbreaker.
Little John struggles upright and drives a forearm smash into the knight’s jaw.
Both stagger toward their corners.
Agravaine tags Tin Man.
Little John tags Allan.
Julian Ward: “Another change on both sides. Allan and Tin Man meet again.”
Brick Brody: “And neither has forgotten the first exchange. Allan got plenty of offence against him earlier. He needs to do it again.”
Minute 28
Tin Man closes before Allan can establish his footing.
He captures the upper body and delivers a takeover suplex.
Allan tries to brace during the lift but is carried over and driven down.
Tin Man rises between him and the Merry Band’s corner.
Julian Ward: “The takeover suplex gives Tin Man control of the return encounter.”
Brick Brody: “And look where he’s standing. Allan has to go through him to get help.”
Minute 29
Tin Man holds Allan close and drives repeated knees into his body.
Allan folds under the strikes but eventually breaks the grip.
He steadies himself, catches his opening, and delivers Final Verse.
Tin Man falls.
Allan remains on one knee beside him.
Julian Ward: “Final Verse answers the knee strikes. Allan continues to find offence despite the time he has spent inside.”
Brick Brody: “He’s fighting on determination now. That can carry you a long way, but it doesn’t make your ribs stop hurting.”
Minute 30
Tin Man regains control and delivers another takeover suplex.
He follows Allan toward the centre.
Allan catches both arms and drives him down with a double-arm DDT.
The crowd rises as both men struggle to recover.
Julian Ward: “Thirty minutes have passed in this forty-five-minute main event. Neither team has secured a fall.”
Brick Brody: “And the longer it goes, the more one bad position can decide it. There’s too much damage now for casual mistakes.”
Minute 31
Tin Man sweeps Allan’s legs away.
Allan lands on his back, then works onto one knee as his opponent approaches.
He rises into a knee lift that catches Tin Man in the abdomen.
The larger man bends forward.
Julian Ward: “A legsweep and knee lift leave both men struggling for control at close range.”
Brick Brody: “Allan needs to make that knee buy him space. Standing underneath Tin Man is a miserable place to recover.”
Minute 32
Tin Man drives a kick into Allan’s thigh.
Allan’s leg buckles, but he stays close enough to gather both arms and deliver another double-arm DDT.
Both crawl toward their corners.
Tin Man tags Agravaine.
Allan tags Tuck.
Julian Ward: “Both men escape the exchange through their partners. Allan is favouring that leg as he reaches the apron.”
Brick Brody: “He’s been doing the heavy lifting for his team. Tuck needs to make this stretch count.”
Minute 33
Tin Man stays inside after the tag and kicks Tuck in the thigh.
Agravaine closes from behind and delivers a release German suplex.
As the referee orders Tin Man out, Tuck regains his feet and throws himself into Agravaine with a cross body block.
Both crash down.
Julian Ward: “The Shadow Court combines its attack, but Tuck still finds the cross body against the legal man.”
Brick Brody: “That’s a lot of body coming at you when you think you’ve got somebody beaten down.”
Minute 34
Agravaine attempts to position Tuck for the over-the-shoulder back-to-belly piledriver.
Tuck lowers his weight and holds the knight’s arm, preventing the lift.
He works free before Agravaine can reposition him.
The two separate.
Julian Ward: “Tuck denies a dangerous lift. The piledriver never reaches its attacking position.”
Brick Brody: “Good. Make him carry your weight before he can hurt you with it. Don’t help the man lift you.”
Minute 35
Tuck circles behind Agravaine and secures a sleeper.
The knight pulls at the forearm, refusing to submit.
Tuck maintains the pressure until Agravaine begins working space into the hold.
He then releases near his own corner and tags Allan.
Julian Ward: “The sleeper forces Agravaine to spend more energy escaping before Allan returns.”
Brick Brody: “They’ve got the knight breathing hard. Now keep him from reaching those two hands waiting behind him.”
Minute 36
Allan reaches for another double-arm DDT.
Agravaine turns free before both arms are secured.
He catches Allan, swings him into position, and delivers a pendulum backbreaker.
Allan rolls from the knee onto the canvas.
Julian Ward: “The knight reverses the DDT into a backbreaker. He recognised the grip that has repeatedly troubled his team.”
Brick Brody: “They’ve seen it enough tonight. Allan went back to it once too often without changing the opening.”
Minute 37
Allan struggles upright.
When Agravaine closes, he catches him and delivers Final Verse.
He covers, pulling the far leg inward.
One—
Agravaine kicks out.
Allan remains beside him, head lowered as he draws breath.
Julian Ward: “Final Verse lands, but the cover produces only one. Agravaine retains enough strength to force an immediate escape.”
Brick Brody: “Then Allan has to keep working. Frustration won’t hold those shoulders down.”
Minute 38
Agravaine moves behind Allan as they rise.
A rear high knee catches him across the upper back.
Allan tries to turn away but is driven forward onto his hands.
The knight reaches his corner and tags Tin Man.
Julian Ward: “The rear knee creates the exit. Tin Man returns against an opponent who has taken sustained punishment.”
Brick Brody: “This is where the numbers start showing. Every new man gets another chance at the same exhausted body.”
Minute 39
Tin Man drives knees into Allan’s torso.
Crowne enters and rams him into the turnbuckles. Agravaine follows with another rear high knee.
Tuck and Little John protest as the referee forces the extra men away.
Before Tin Man can continue, Allan gathers him into a desperate scoop powerslam.
Both hit the mat.
Julian Ward: “All three members of the Shadow Court attacked Allan, yet he still produced that powerslam.”
Brick Brody: “They left him enough room to lift the legal man. He’s making them earn every inch.”
Minute 40
After a slow reset, Allan reaches Tin Man first.
Final Verse lands.
He covers.
One.
Two—
Sir Agravaine dives in and breaks the pin.
Little John starts through the ropes, but the referee intercepts him while ordering the knight out.
Julian Ward: “Agravaine saves Tin Man at two. Allan had the cover secured before the intervention.”
Brick Brody: “That’s a partner’s job. Tin Man can thank him if they get out of this.”
Minute 41
Allan refuses to retreat.
He locks his arms around Tin Man’s waist and delivers a gutwrench suplex despite the attempt to brace against him.
He covers again.
One—
Tin Man kicks out.
Allan reaches his corner and tags Tuck.
Julian Ward: “Another cover forces another escape. Allan finally gets out after six demanding minutes.”
Brick Brody: “He’s done more than his share. Tuck needs to finish something before Allan has to come back.”
Minute 42
Tin Man catches Tuck entering range and locks him chest to chest.
Tuck tries to widen his stance.
The belly-to-belly suplex carries him over.
Tin Man covers.
One.
Two—
Little John breaks the pin.
Once returned to the apron, he receives Tuck’s tag.
Julian Ward: “Little John saves his partner and now enters legally. Both teams have relied on crucial saves late in this contest.”
Brick Brody: “Nobody’s getting abandoned tonight. That’s something Tin Man ought to recognise.”
Minute 43
Tin Man drives a headbutt into Little John’s midsection.
John bends but remains standing.
He clamps a shoulder claw onto Tin Man, digging his fingers into the muscle and forcing him downward.
After working the hold, John releases near his corner and tags Allan.
Julian Ward: “Little John withstands the headbutt and controls Tin Man long enough to make the change.”
Brick Brody: “Now Allan gets him hurting instead of charging. That gives him a chance.”
Minute 44
Tin Man unleashes Hinged Hammer, driving punches into Allan and forcing him backward.
Allan covers up, then catches an opening as Tin Man closes.
He forces him forward, gathers the waist, and delivers a piledriver.
Both collapse after the impact.
Louie Linville: “One minute remains!”
Julian Ward: “A piledriver from Allan, but he cannot immediately follow. The time limit is approaching.”
Brick Brody: “Get across him. Find something. They haven’t come this far just to watch the clock.”
Minute 45
Allan rises first and pulls Tin Man forward for another piledriver.
This time, Tin Man lowers his hips and breaks the position.
He straightens into Allan, locks both arms around him, and throws him with a belly-to-belly suplex.
Allan cannot stop the lift.
He lands heavily.
Tin Man turns toward him, dragging himself closer.
The bell rings.
‘Honest’ Abe steps between them and signals to the timekeeper.
Forty-five minutes have expired.
Julian Ward: “The time limit has been reached. That final suplex landed, but there was no fall. This main event ends in a draw.”
Brick Brody: “Forty-five minutes, and neither side could make the other stay down. That won’t settle a damn thing between these men.”
Tin Man remains on his knees.
Allan rolls onto his side, one hand pressed against his back.
Tuck enters and moves directly to his partner.
Little John follows, placing himself between Tin Man and the two men behind him.
Across the ring, Crowne and Agravaine step through the ropes.
‘Honest’ Abe holds both arms out, insisting upon separation.
Louie Linville: “Ladies and gentlemen, the forty-five-minute time limit has expired. This contest is declared a draw!”
The announcement receives a frustrated roar.
Crowne looks toward the timekeeper, then across at the Merry Band.
He smooths his disordered attire.
His breathing is still heavy.
Little John: “You’re not finished with us.”
Crowne lifts his eyes.
Severin Crowne: “You were given forty-five minutes.”
Little John takes a step forward.
Tuck catches his arm.
This time, he does not pull him away. He simply keeps him beside them.
Friar Tuck: “And you had forty-five minutes to make us bow.”
Crowne’s expression hardens.
Behind Tuck, Allan uses the ropes to stand.
His neck is stiff. One leg briefly falters beneath him.
He refuses to sit back down.
Allan A Dale: “Look carefully.”
All three members of the Merry Band face the opposing corner.
Allan A Dale: “We’re still standing.”
The crowd answers.
Tin Man moves forward.
Little John immediately squares his shoulders.
Crowne extends an arm across Tin Man’s path.
For a moment, he studies the three men opposite him.
Then he gestures toward the ropes.
Sir Agravaine withdraws first.
Tin Man follows reluctantly.
Crowne steps onto the apron.
Severin Crowne: “Your friend is still in his cell.”
The words cut through the noise near the ring.
Little John grips the top rope so tightly that his knuckles pale.
Tuck looks directly at Crowne.
Friar Tuck: “We haven’t forgotten.”
There is no shouted answer from Crowne.
He descends to the floor and joins his partners.
The Shadow Court begins moving up the ramp.
Inside the ring, Allan leans briefly against Tuck, who steadies him without taking his eyes from the departing men.
Little John stays at the ropes.
The audience begins chanting Robin Hood’s name.
The chant grows.
Halfway up the ramp, Crowne stops and looks back.
In the ring, the three men remain together.
Julian Ward: “The Merry Band was denied its championship opportunity and placed in this match by Elias Coldmere. They leave without a victory, but the Shadow Court has failed to defeat them.”
Brick Brody: “Failed to beat them, yes. But Crowne made sure they remembered what he still has over them. They can fight these three all night, and Robin Hood is still behind a locked door.”
Julian Ward: “That remains the consequence beyond this result. Forty-five minutes have exhausted six men without ending the dispute that brought them here. Robin Hood remains imprisoned, and his friends remain unwilling to accept it.”
RESULT: SHADOW COURT—SEVERIN CROWNE, SIR AGRAVAINE, AND TIN MAN—AND MERRY BAND—ALLAN A DALE, FRIAR TUCK, AND LITTLE JOHN—WRESTLE TO A 45-MINUTE TIME-LIMIT DRAW.
The broadcast returns to the ring.
Allan A Dale, Friar Tuck, and Little John remain together after the forty-five-minute draw.
The Shadow Court has disappeared behind the entrance archway, but the crowd continues chanting Robin Hood’s name.
Allan leans against the ropes, exhausted from the punishment he absorbed throughout the main event.
Tuck stands beside him.
Little John remains at the front of the ring, staring toward the passage through which Severin Crowne, Sir Agravaine, and Tin Man departed.
The camera moves to the commentary position.
Julian Ward: “The time limit has expired, but nothing between the Merry Band and the Shadow Court has been resolved. Robin Hood remains imprisoned. His friends were denied their championship opportunity. After forty-five minutes, however, the men who helped carry him away could not defeat them.”
Brick Brody: “They’re still standing, but Crowne was right about one thing. Robin is still in that cell. Until they find a way to change that, the Shadow Court still has something over them.”
The closing recap begins.
The first images show King Arthur standing beneath the royal banners with the Mythic Crown Championship, proclaiming that his victory at Age of Ruin had confirmed his authority over the division.
The picture changes to Robin Hood, bound in chains and surrounded by the men who would become the Shadow Court.
Julian Ward: “Tonight began with King Arthur presenting his reign as unassailable. The king retained his crown at Age of Ruin, while Robin Hood was stripped of his freedom.”
The recap moves to the Eternal Flame Championship match.
Mordred drives the Sheriff of Nottingham into the canvas.
The referee counts three.
The championship is placed into Mordred’s hands.
The images accelerate through the attack that followed, ending with the arrival of the Blood-Moon Warden, who forced the Shadow Court to withdraw.
Julian Ward: “The balance of power shifted when Mordred defeated the Sheriff of Nottingham and became the new Eternal Flame Champion. The assault that followed was halted by the return of the Blood-Moon Warden.”
Brick Brody: “The Shadow Court lost a championship, and somebody they thought was gone walked straight back into their path. They’re going to answer that.”
The next images show Frankenstein’s Monster overwhelming Lion.
Dr. Frankenstein’s chair strike is replayed, followed by the crushing elbow drop that ended the match.
The recap closes on the doctor looking into the camera.
Dr. Frankenstein: “I trust you were watching, John Henry.”
Julian Ward: “Frankenstein’s Monster defeated Lion, aided by the direct interference of Dr. Frankenstein. The doctor then delivered another unmistakable message to John Henry.”
Brick Brody: “The challenge is sitting there. Before John Henry thinks about answering it, he has another monster waiting for him next week.”
The image changes to the House of the Dragon’s Veil.
Taro Okami sits peacefully among the chanting monks.
It then returns to Raigen and Hana Nakamura, followed by the confrontation with the Virtuous Blades.
Sir Galahad demands that Raigen acknowledge King Arthur.
Raigen remains silent.
Takuma Ryujin steps beside him, forcing the knights to retreat.
Julian Ward: “We also learned that Taro Okami has begun preparing for the cleansing of his essence. His former enemy, Raigen, remains committed to helping him recover from the influence of the Blood Oni Syndicate.”
Brick Brody: “And that put Raigen in another man’s path. He wouldn’t bow to Arthur, he wouldn’t answer Galahad, and next week the talking stops.”
The final recap shows the main event.
Allan, Tuck, and Little John exchange attacks with Crowne, Agravaine, and Tin Man.
Allan delivers Final Verse.
Tin Man throws him with the final belly-to-belly suplex.
The bell sounds before either man can secure the fall.
The screen freezes on the two teams confronting one another after the draw.
Julian Ward: “The Merry Band and the Shadow Court fought until the forty-five-minute limit expired. Neither side earned the victory, and neither side has accepted that this struggle is over.”
Brick Brody: “It isn’t close to over.”
The recap fades.
A new graphic rises above the entrance.
NEXT WEEK ON DARK FABLE
The first match appears.
QUEENS OF DESPAIR
REGINA AND MALICE
VS
LARK OF SHERWOOD AND MAID MARION
Julian Ward: “Next week, the conflict spreads. Regina and Malice, the Queens of Despair, face Lark of Sherwood and Maid Marion.”
Brick Brody: “Severin Crowne has made the entire Merry Band part of this war. Lark and Marion now get their opportunity to strike back.”
The graphic changes.
RAIGEN
VS
SIR GALAHAD
Julian Ward: “After tonight’s confrontation, Raigen will face Sir Galahad.”
Brick Brody: “Galahad demanded obedience. Next week, he has to stand across the ring from the man who refused to give it.”
The next match appears.
JOHN HENRY
VS
DRAGON KING
Julian Ward: “John Henry meets the immense Dragon King.”
Brick Brody: “If John Henry intends to answer Dr. Frankenstein, he had better survive the giant already waiting in front of him.”
The sound of royal horns accompanies the next announcement.
SPECIAL FIFTEEN-MINUTE CHALLENGE MATCH
KING ARTHUR
VS
MORDRED
The image shows King Arthur holding the Mythic Crown Championship opposite the newly crowned Eternal Flame Champion.
Julian Ward: “Two champions will meet when King Arthur faces Mordred in a special fifteen-minute challenge match.”
Brick Brody: “Mordred took a championship from one of Arthur’s allies tonight. The king now has fifteen minutes to remind him who still rules Camelot.”
The next graphic rises.
ALLAN A DALE
VS
TIN MAN
Julian Ward: “After neither man could settle the main event, Allan A Dale and Tin Man will meet one-on-one.”
Inside the ring, Allan raises his head as the match appears on the screen.
Little John looks toward him.
Allan nods.
Brick Brody: “No partners. No time-limit draw involving six men. Allan gets one of the men who carried Robin Hood away, and Tin Man gets forty-five minutes of frustration coming straight at him.”
The final graphic fills the screen.
NORTH STAR TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP
BLONDE BOMBSHELLS (CHAMPIONS)
VS
FAIREST HUNTERS
The image of the championship belts appears between the two teams.
Julian Ward: “The North Star Tag Team Championship will also be defended. The Blonde Bombshells put the titles on the line against the Fairest Hunters.”
Brick Brody: “The champions survived the War Council at Age of Ruin. Now they face a completely different kind of threat from two challengers who believe those championships belong within their royal hunt.”
The complete card appears:
QUEENS OF DESPAIR VS LARK OF SHERWOOD AND MAID MARION
RAIGEN VS SIR GALAHAD
JOHN HENRY VS DRAGON KING
KING ARTHUR VS MORDRED — SPECIAL FIFTEEN-MINUTE CHALLENGE MATCH
ALLAN A DALE VS TIN MAN
NORTH STAR TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP — BLONDE BOMBSHELLS VS FAIREST HUNTERS
Julian Ward: “Six matches have been confirmed for next week, including a championship defence, a confrontation between the champions of Camelot, and the next battles in the struggle surrounding Robin Hood’s imprisonment.”
Brick Brody: “Everybody who left angry tonight gets somebody to fight next week. That usually means the problems get worse before anybody finds an answer.”
The camera returns to the ring.
Allan, Tuck, and Little John stand in the centre.
The crowd’s chant rises once more.
“ROBIN HOOD!”
“ROBIN HOOD!”
“ROBIN HOOD!”
The broadcast cuts away from the arena.
Deep within the royal stronghold, a torch burns outside a barred cell.
Robin Hood sits against the stone wall, still dressed in the torn remnants of his Sherwood gear.
His wrists remain shackled.
The arena chant continues over the image.
Slowly, Robin raises his head.
He looks through the bars.
There is exhaustion in his face.
There is no surrender.
Julian Ward: “For Brick Brody, Hana Nakamura, Louie Linville, and everyone behind the scenes, I am Julian Ward.”
“Good night from Dark Fable.”
The screen fades to black.
EVERY LEGEND HAS A DARKER CHAPTER.
Airing October 2, 2026
The screen fades in from black.
There is no music.
Only the slow ringing of a temple bell.
Once.
Twice.
Three times.
A mountain path emerges through the night mist.
Lanterns burn along ancient stone steps leading upward toward the House of the Dragon’s Veil.
At the top of those steps stands the dojo.
Not grand.
Not ornate.
Old.
Wood and stone weathered by generations.
Carved dragons coil around the entrance pillars, their faces worn smooth by wind, rain, and time.
Footsteps approach.
Raigen appears first.
His body still carries the evidence of Age of Ruin.
Behind him walks Taro Okami.
Taro wears plain black robes.
No Blood Oni colors.
No ceremonial armor.
No symbols of the Syndicate.
His hands are bound loosely in front of him with a white ceremonial cord.
Taro does not resist.
He does not speak.
Several hooded monks wait at the entrance.
Their faces are uncovered, but none acknowledge the cameras.
An elderly monk steps forward.
He is identified only through a small subtitle.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL
The Keeper looks first to Raigen.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL: “You have brought him willingly?”
RAIGEN: “He gave his word before the Blood Syndicate. He lost. He will honor the condition.”
The Keeper looks toward Taro.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL: “Did you come willingly?”
A long silence.
Finally, Taro raises his eyes.
TARO OKAMI: “I came because I gave my word.”
The Keeper studies him.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL: “That was not my question.”
Taro and the Keeper stare at one another.
Taro finally answers.
TARO OKAMI: “I walked through the door myself.”
The Keeper gives the smallest nod.
The monks move aside.
Taro enters.
The door closes behind him.
The scene cuts deeper inside the compound.
Taro is led through narrow wooden corridors.
The House is almost completely silent.
They pass training halls.
Prayer chambers.
Small courtyards.
Stone statues representing generations of dragons.
At several points, Taro's eyes subtly move.
A doorway.
A stairwell.
A carved symbol above an arch.
A monk standing beside a sealed corridor.
Nothing is emphasized.
Nothing appears suspicious.
Taro simply observes.
Eventually they reach a circular stone chamber beneath the dojo.
There are no windows.
The floor has been carved into the image of a dragon wrapped around a circle.
At the very center rests a simple meditation cushion.
Dozens of monks enter.
They form three rings around the chamber.
The Keeper removes the white cord from Taro's wrists.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL: “The Blood Oni Syndicate taught you that obedience is strength.”
Taro says nothing.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL: “They gave your anger a name. They gave your pain a purpose. They told you surrender was loyalty.”
The Keeper motions toward the center of the room.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL: “Sit.”
Taro does.
The monks lower themselves around him.
Raigen watches from beyond the outer circle.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL: “The cleansing does not begin tonight.”
Raigen looks toward him.
The Keeper continues.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL: “A vessel filled with poison cannot simply be emptied. Break it too quickly... and the poison spreads.”
He looks directly at Taro.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL: “Tonight, you become still.”
The chamber darkens.
Only three flames remain burning.
One red.
One white.
One blue.
The chanting begins.
Low.
Rhythmic.
Almost beneath hearing.
Taro closes his eyes.
Minutes pass.
The chanting continues.
His breathing gradually slows.
Raigen watches carefully.
Then something changes.
Taro's right hand slowly turns upward upon his knee.
For only a moment, we see the center of his palm.
There is a faint dark discoloration there.
Almost like an old scar.
Taro closes his hand.
The camera lingers.
The chanting grows louder.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL: “Tomorrow, we begin removing the Oni.”
Taro's eyes remain closed.
But his lips move almost imperceptibly.
No sound escapes them.
The camera slowly moves closer.
Closer.
Until Taro's face fills the screen.
His expression is completely calm.
The final bell sounds.
CUT TO BLACK.
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