Aired - October 23
INTERLUDE 005: INTO THE DARK
Referee: "Fast Count" Frank
The broadcast returns to Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum, where the atmosphere remains charged following an extraordinary evening of competition and political upheaval.
The rebellion against King Arthur has grown stronger.
Sir Lancelot has openly abandoned the royal court.
And the Shadow Court, already shaken by that betrayal, has been denied the Universal Championship following Hansel's successful defense against Severin Crowne.
But the conflict surrounding Camelot is far from settled.
Tonight, two more members of the royal court must face representatives of the very rebellion threatening the king's authority.
The camera settles upon the commentary desk.
Julian Ward: "Ladies and gentlemen, we return to tag team competition, and the circumstances surrounding this next contest have changed considerably since the evening began. Earlier tonight, Robin Hood, Mordred, and the Blood-Moon Warden defeated the royal team after Sir Lancelot refused to accept a tag from Sir Agravaine. That decision ultimately led to Lancelot joining the rebellion."
Brick Brody: "And now we've got two more knights from Camelot coming down here to fight Robin Hood's friends. If I'm Sir Gawain or Sir Galahad, I'm furious! One of your fellow knights just turned his back on the king, the court has been embarrassed, and the entire building is cheering for the outlaws. That's enough to make anybody want to hurt somebody."
Julian Ward: "The Virtuous Blades have remained aligned with the royal court. Their opponents, Friar Tuck and Little John, have stood beside Robin Hood throughout his imprisonment, his escape, and now the declaration of rebellion. This match carries considerable importance for both sides."
Brick Brody: "And don't overlook who's coming to ringside with the knights. Merlin has watched the king's authority crumble throughout this broadcast. He's not about to enjoy seeing two more royal representatives get beaten."
THE VIRTUOUS BLADES ENTER
The arena lights darken.
A deep ceremonial horn sounds throughout the Coliseum.
Golden light spreads across the enormous screens as the royal crest of Camelot emerges against a backdrop of ancient stone.
Two crossed swords appear beneath the crown.
The blades slowly rise.
A solemn orchestral theme begins.
SIR GAWAIN steps beneath the entrance arch.
His expression is stern, his shoulders squared, his attention fixed upon the ring.
Beside him walks SIR GALAHAD, composed and disciplined, carrying himself with the proud bearing of a knight who has dedicated his life to the ideals of Camelot.
Together, they are the VIRTUOUS BLADES.
Behind them emerges MERLIN.
The legendary wizard carries his ancient staff, his expression difficult to read.
Only moments earlier, he stood beside King Arthur when Sir Lancelot openly rejected the king's command.
Now he accompanies two knights who have not followed that example.
As the trio begins its procession, the crowd responds with sustained boos.
Sir Gawain barely acknowledges the reaction.
Sir Galahad looks toward the audience briefly before returning his gaze to the ring.
Merlin follows several paces behind.
Julian Ward: "The Virtuous Blades have arrived. Sir Gawain and Sir Galahad remain among Camelot's most capable warriors, and their loyalty has taken on renewed significance following Sir Lancelot's decision earlier tonight."
Brick Brody: "And these two aren't going to appreciate what happened. The knights of Camelot take their oaths seriously. Now one of their own has walked out on the king and joined the people they've been fighting for weeks. That's the kind of thing that divides an entire kingdom."
Julian Ward: "An interesting distinction must also be made between loyalty to Camelot and loyalty to its current ruler. Lancelot argued that those obligations had become incompatible. Gawain and Galahad have made no such declaration."
Brick Brody: "Maybe because they still believe in the king. Maybe because they understand what happens when a court loses discipline. Either way, they've got a chance to do something about it tonight."
The Virtuous Blades reach ringside.
Sir Gawain climbs the steps first.
Sir Galahad enters behind him.
Merlin takes his position near their corner, resting both hands upon the head of his staff.
Inside the ring, the knights stand side by side.
The royal music fades.
THE MERRY BAND ENTER
A familiar forest horn echoes through the Coliseum.
The enormous screens change.
The golden royal crest disappears beneath the spreading branches of Sherwood Forest.
Sunlight breaks through ancient trees.
An arrow flies across the screen.
It strikes the royal seal.
The audience erupts.
FRIAR TUCK emerges beneath the entrance arch.
He pauses to survey the cheering crowd, a warm but determined expression upon his face.
Beside him steps the enormous figure of LITTLE JOHN.
The towering outlaw raises one fist.
The Coliseum responds with another roar.
Earlier tonight, both men helped Robin Hood escape the throne room after declaring rebellion against King Arthur.
Now they return to the ring to continue the struggle against the court's remaining loyal knights.
Friar Tuck briefly acknowledges the audience before turning toward his partner.
Little John nods.
The two men begin walking toward the ring.
Julian Ward: "And here come two of the men who have refused to abandon Robin Hood throughout his ordeal. Friar Tuck and Little John have endured considerable punishment at the hands of the Shadow Court, but they remain determined to challenge its authority."
Brick Brody: "And unlike some people who talk a good fight, these two have already been doing the fighting. Little John is strong enough to throw a knight halfway across the ring, and Friar Tuck is a whole lot tougher than anybody expects when they first look at him."
Julian Ward: "The Merry Band defeated Sir Agravaine and the Sheriff of Nottingham in Osaka last week. Their confidence has only increased following tonight's earlier victory for the rebellion."
Brick Brody: "But this is a different team. Gawain and Galahad know how to wrestle together, and they've got Merlin watching from the floor. The outlaws had better be prepared for more than a straightforward fight."
Friar Tuck reaches ringside and pauses.
He looks across the ring toward Merlin.
The wizard returns his gaze without expression.
Little John steps onto the apron and enters over the top rope.
Friar Tuck climbs the steps and joins him.
Across the ring, Sir Gawain and Sir Galahad remain motionless.
The two teams exchange a long stare.
No one offers a handshake.
THE FORMAL INTRODUCTIONS
Louie Linville steps into the centre of the ring.
Referee "Fast Count" Frank stands between the teams, preparing to maintain order.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is a TAG TEAM MATCH scheduled for ONE FALL, with a THIRTY-MINUTE TIME LIMIT!"
The Coliseum responds.
Louie Linville: "Introducing first... accompanied to the ring by the legendary wizard MERLIN... representing the royal court of Camelot... SIR GAWAIN and SIR GALAHAD... THE VIRTUOUS BLADES!"
The two knights step forward, standing proudly beneath the royal banners displayed upon the arena screens.
Louie Linville: "And their opponents... representing Sherwood Forest and the MERRY BAND... FRIAR TUCK and LITTLE JOHN!"
The crowd erupts.
Little John raises one massive arm.
Friar Tuck nods toward the spectators.
"Fast Count" Frank completes the final instructions.
Sir Galahad elects to begin for the Virtuous Blades.
Friar Tuck steps forward for the Merry Band.
Sir Gawain and Little John withdraw to their respective corners.
At ringside, Merlin watches intently.
The referee signals for the bell.
Minute 1
Sir Galahad and Friar Tuck meet near the centre of the ring.
The knight immediately attempts to establish a collar-and-elbow tie-up.
Friar Tuck accepts the engagement, planting his feet and attempting to use his considerable weight to force Galahad backward.
But the knight shifts around his opponent's side.
He catches the head and springs upward.
Jumping Reverse Bulldog!
Friar Tuck is driven face-first into the canvas!
Sir Galahad rises immediately, attempting to maintain the advantage.
But Friar Tuck pushes himself upright.
As the knight approaches, Tuck catches his arm and twists behind him.
He hooks the leg and secures the upper body.
ABDOMINAL STRETCH!
The hold is locked in!
Sir Galahad grimaces as Friar Tuck pulls backward, applying pressure across the ribs and lower back.
"Fast Count" Frank moves closer.
"Fast Count" Frank: "Do you submit?"
Sir Galahad shakes his head.
He refuses!
Tuck tightens the hold, forcing the knight to struggle for leverage.
Eventually, Galahad manages to shift his weight and break the grip.
Friar Tuck releases him and turns toward his corner.
Tag!
Little John enters.
Julian Ward: "An immediate exchange of dangerous techniques. Sir Galahad connected with the jumping reverse bulldog, but Friar Tuck responded with the abdominal stretch and forced the knight into a difficult defensive position."
Brick Brody: "And that's what people underestimate about Tuck. He looks like he'd rather be sitting beside a fire with something to drink, but he knows how to wrestle. That abdominal stretch will make your whole body miserable if he gets it locked in properly."
Julian Ward: "An encouraging opening for the Merry Band, who have already made their first change. Little John now brings a significant power advantage into the contest."
Minute 2
Little John advances toward the recovering Sir Galahad.
The knight attempts to maintain his distance, circling the enormous outlaw.
Little John reaches for a collar-and-elbow tie-up.
But Galahad slips beneath the extended arms and moves behind him.
He catches the larger man around the upper body and climbs into position.
HORIZONTAL GORY SPECIAL!
Little John is trapped across the knight's shoulders!
The Coliseum responds with surprise as Sir Galahad demonstrates remarkable strength.
He pulls backward, stretching the outlaw's arms and upper body.
Little John struggles against the pressure.
He manages to free one hand and reaches toward the knight's shoulder.
SHOULDER CLAW!
The enormous outlaw digs his fingers into the muscle, attempting to force Galahad to release the hold.
But the knight maintains his grip.
Little John cries out as the Horizontal Gory Special tightens.
Friar Tuck sees the danger.
He enters the ring!
TUCK BREAKS THE HOLD!
"Fast Count" Frank immediately orders the illegal competitor back to the apron.
Little John drops onto his knees, clutching his shoulders.
Sir Galahad retreats toward his corner.
Tag!
Sir Gawain enters.
Across the ring, Little John manages to reach Friar Tuck.
Tag!
Julian Ward: "A tremendous display of strength from Sir Galahad, who managed to trap Little John in the Horizontal Gory Special. The outlaw attempted to counter with a shoulder claw, but Friar Tuck was forced to enter and break the submission."
Brick Brody: "That's impressive, Julian! You don't just pick up somebody the size of Little John and bend him across your shoulders unless you've got serious strength. Galahad nearly had him. Tuck made the save because he knew his partner was in trouble."
Julian Ward: "Both teams have now changed competitors. Sir Gawain will face Friar Tuck, and the intensity of these opening exchanges suggests a demanding contest ahead."
Minute 3
Sir Gawain enters and immediately catches Friar Tuck by the wrist.
He draws the outlaw forward.
Short-Arm Clothesline!
The impact drives Tuck onto his back.
Sir Gawain rises and looks toward his partner.
Sir Galahad begins climbing the turnbuckles.
The crowd reacts as the knight reaches the top rope.
Friar Tuck remains down near the centre.
Sir Galahad launches himself into the air.
THE CHOSEN FALL!
630 SENTON!
The knight rotates through the air and crashes across Friar Tuck's upper body!
The Coliseum erupts.
"Fast Count" Frank immediately moves toward the competitors, ordering Galahad back to the apron.
But Friar Tuck refuses to remain down.
As Sir Gawain approaches, Tuck forces himself upright and catches the knight with a hard strike.
Gawain staggers.
Friar Tuck rebounds from the ropes.
SPLASH!
He drives his considerable weight across Sir Gawain, knocking the knight onto the canvas!
Both men remain down briefly, recovering from the rapid exchange.
Julian Ward: "An outstanding combination from the Virtuous Blades. Sir Gawain connected with the short-arm clothesline, and Sir Galahad followed with the Chosen Fall, that extraordinary 630 Senton. But Friar Tuck answered with a powerful splash."
Brick Brody: "I don't care how many times I see that move, Julian. Watching a knight launch himself through the air like that is ridiculous! But Tuck got up, and then he used every bit of his own weight to flatten Gawain. That's my kind of answer."
Julian Ward: "The Virtuous Blades have demonstrated their coordinated offense, but the Merry Band has responded with equally determined resistance."
Minute 4
Friar Tuck rises and catches Sir Gawain near the centre.
He forces the knight backward and reaches toward his corner.
Little John steps into the ring as the Merry Band attempts to build momentum.
Tuck raises both hands.
DOUBLE AXEHANDLE!
The blow crashes across Gawain's upper back.
The knight staggers forward.
Little John steps into position.
FOREARM SMASH!
The enormous outlaw drives his forearm into the knight's chest.
Sir Gawain reels backward.
But he refuses to fall.
As Friar Tuck approaches again, Gawain catches him around the upper body.
WHITE NOISE!
The knight lifts and drives Tuck into the canvas!
The audience reacts sharply.
Little John attempts to intervene, but "Fast Count" Frank orders him back toward the apron.
Sir Gawain rises slowly, clutching his chest after the earlier forearm.
Julian Ward: "The Merry Band assembled an effective double-team attack, but Sir Gawain answered with White Noise. The knight has now demonstrated that he can survive considerable pressure and produce a decisive counter."
Brick Brody: "That's a big response from Gawain. He got hit with an axehandle and a forearm from Little John, then picked Tuck up and planted him anyway. That's not easy when you've already been knocked around."
Julian Ward: "Neither team has yet established sustained control. Both sides are relying upon quick changes and coordinated attacks to create opportunities."
Minute 5
Sir Gawain catches Friar Tuck as the outlaw struggles to rise.
He locks his arms around the upper body and lifts.
Fallaway Slam!
Tuck is thrown backward across the canvas.
The knight rises, attempting to continue the attack.
But Friar Tuck reacts quickly.
He drops beneath the approaching arms and catches Gawain with a rolling scissors takedown.
The knight is pulled off balance and sent tumbling across the mat.
Friar Tuck rises onto one knee.
Across from him, Sir Gawain pushes himself upright.
Both men pause, recognizing the damage accumulating from their exchanges.
Gawain retreats toward his corner.
Tag!
Sir Galahad returns.
Friar Tuck reaches toward Little John.
Tag!
Julian Ward: "Fallaway Slam from Sir Gawain, answered by the rolling scissors from Friar Tuck. Neither competitor maintained control, and both teams have wisely made another change."
Brick Brody: "And that's what tag wrestling is supposed to look like. You get in, you do some damage, and when you start getting worn down, you bring your partner in. Nobody wins a championship by refusing every tag and trying to be a hero."
Julian Ward: "Five minutes have elapsed. Little John and Sir Galahad return, renewing the confrontation that produced an early submission threat."
Minute 6
Sir Galahad enters with immediate aggression.
He catches Little John advancing toward the centre and springs upward.
PELE KICK!
The strike catches the enormous outlaw across the side of the head.
Little John staggers backward.
Sir Galahad immediately looks toward his corner.
Sir Gawain joins the attack.
The two knights force Little John backward before Gawain catches him around the upper body.
WHITE NOISE!
The massive outlaw is driven into the canvas!
The Coliseum responds with surprise at the display of strength.
Little John rolls onto his side, clutching his upper back.
Sir Galahad attempts to keep him away from the ropes while Gawain retreats toward the apron under the referee's instructions.
Julian Ward: "Pele Kick from Sir Galahad, followed by another White Noise from Sir Gawain! The Virtuous Blades have now executed a punishing combination against Little John."
Brick Brody: "And that's impressive, Julian. Little John is a mountain of a man. You don't pick him up and drive him down unless you've got real strength and perfect timing. These knights are working together beautifully."
Julian Ward: "The royal team has finally begun sustaining an advantage. The challenge now is to keep Little John isolated before the Merry Band can respond."
Minute 7
Sir Galahad maintains pressure on Little John.
He catches the outlaw from behind and secures one leg.
Leg-Hook Belly-to-Back Suplex!
Little John crashes backward onto the canvas.
Sir Gawain moves in to continue the attack.
He catches the larger man as he attempts to rise.
Backbreaker!
The enormous outlaw is driven across the knight's knee.
The Coliseum reacts sharply.
Little John struggles upright, but his expression hardens as Gawain approaches again.
BACK SMASH!
The outlaw drives both arms into the knight's upper back, forcing him forward.
Sir Galahad attempts to intervene.
But Little John turns toward him, raising his fists.
"Fast Count" Frank steps between the competitors, ordering the illegal knight back toward his corner.
Julian Ward: "The Virtuous Blades continue their coordinated attack with the leg-hook belly-to-back suplex and backbreaker, but Little John has answered with a powerful back smash."
Brick Brody: "That's the problem with attacking a man that size. You can hit him with everything you've got, but if he gets back to his feet, one shot from him can change the whole fight. Little John is not somebody you want standing directly in front of you when he's angry."
Julian Ward: "Seven minutes have elapsed, and the referee is already having difficulty controlling the additional involvement from both corners."
Minute 8
Little John attempts to regain his footing near the ropes.
Sir Galahad advances carefully, keeping the enormous outlaw away from his corner.
At ringside, Merlin suddenly raises one hand.
He produces a small quantity of shimmering powder.
Then flicks it toward the apron.
A sharp flash of silver light erupts!
Little John instinctively turns toward the unexpected brightness.
The distraction lasts only an instant.
But Sir Galahad takes advantage.
He strikes the outlaw from behind, driving him down near the centre of the ring.
Galahad immediately hooks the leg.
"Fast Count" Frank drops into position.
ONE!
TWO!
FRIAR TUCK MAKES THE SAVE!
Tuck charges through the ropes and breaks the cover before the third count!
The Coliseum erupts.
Sir Galahad rises in frustration.
Friar Tuck points angrily toward Merlin, who has already lowered his hand.
"Fast Count" Frank orders Tuck back toward the apron.
Little John crawls toward his corner.
Tag!
Friar Tuck enters legally.
Julian Ward: "A flash of light from Merlin distracted Little John, allowing Sir Galahad to capitalize. The resulting cover reached two before Friar Tuck intervened."
Brick Brody: "That's why you bring a wizard to ringside, Julian! Little John took his eyes off the match for a second, and Galahad put him down. The only reason we're still watching this contest is because Tuck got there in time."
Julian Ward: "But that interference raises an important question about the integrity of this contest. The officials must prevent outside distractions from influencing the result."
Minute 9
Friar Tuck enters and immediately advances toward Sir Galahad.
The knight rises to meet him.
But at ringside, Merlin begins murmuring quietly over his staff.
His eyes remain fixed upon Tuck.
A faint distortion seems to pass through the air near the ropes.
Friar Tuck hesitates.
For one moment, his attention appears divided between the knight before him and the wizard outside.
Sir Galahad advances, attempting to capitalize.
But Tuck instinctively catches him from behind.
SLEEPER HOLD!
He pulls the knight backward, attempting to secure the choke.
Galahad immediately twists through the grip, preventing the hold from settling.
Both competitors stumble apart.
Tuck shakes his head, attempting to clear his concentration.
Merlin lowers his staff.
The brief confusion has prevented either wrestler from establishing control.
Friar Tuck retreats toward his corner.
Tag!
Little John returns.
Julian Ward: "Another unusual intervention from Merlin. Friar Tuck appeared momentarily distracted before attempting a sleeper hold, but Sir Galahad escaped before the technique could become effective."
Brick Brody: "And that's what makes Merlin dangerous. He doesn't need to climb into the ring. He can make you hesitate, make you look the wrong way, make you wonder what's happening. Half a second is enough when you're fighting somebody like Galahad."
Julian Ward: "Neither competitor secured a meaningful advantage, and Little John returns after a brief opportunity to recover."
Minute 10
Little John advances with renewed determination.
Sir Galahad circles away from the larger opponent, attempting to use his mobility.
The knight suddenly catches Little John with a sharp strike and drives him toward the canvas.
He moves to the ropes.
Then accelerates.
RUNNING SHOOTING STAR PRESS!
THE CHOSEN FALL!
The spectacular 630 Senton connects across Little John's upper body!
The impact sends a sharp reaction through the Coliseum.
Sir Galahad rises, looking toward the fallen outlaw.
But Little John refuses to stay down.
He pushes himself upright as the knight approaches.
BACK SMASH!
The enormous outlaw drives a powerful blow across Galahad's upper back.
The knight staggers forward.
Little John follows, raising his fists.
Sir Galahad retreats toward the ropes, attempting to escape another heavy strike.
Julian Ward: "The Chosen Fall connects again, this time against Little John! But the enormous outlaw has answered with another back smash. These two men are exchanging significant punishment."
Brick Brody: "That's unbelievable toughness from Little John. Galahad just hit him with a 630 Senton, and the big man got back up and started swinging. That's a dangerous individual, Julian."
Julian Ward: "Ten minutes have elapsed, and the match remains competitive. Both teams have demonstrated an ability to absorb substantial offense and respond almost immediately."
Minute 11
Sir Galahad attempts to regain control near the centre.
But Little John steps forward and catches him around the upper body.
The knight attempts to break the grip.
Little John drives a heavy punch into his midsection!
Sir Galahad doubles forward.
The enormous outlaw follows with another short strike, forcing the knight backward.
Galahad raises his guard, attempting to prevent further punishment.
Little John uses the opening to advance toward the corner, keeping his opponent away from the centre.
Sir Galahad finally manages to slip free.
He retreats toward his partner.
Tag!
Sir Gawain returns.
Julian Ward: "A powerful punch to the midsection from Little John has forced Sir Galahad onto the defensive. The knight has wisely made a tag before that pressure could continue."
Brick Brody: "And that's not a man you want punching you in the stomach, Julian. Little John doesn't need a complicated move to hurt somebody. One good shot from those fists can take the wind out of you."
Julian Ward: "Sir Gawain enters for the royal team, bringing another significant power presence into the contest."
Minute 12
Sir Gawain enters and immediately meets Little John near the centre.
The two powerful competitors collide in a collar-and-elbow tie-up.
Gawain attempts to force his opponent backward.
But Little John plants his feet and resists.
The knight changes position, catching the larger man around the waist.
BACKBREAKER!
Little John is lifted and driven across Gawain's knee!
The crowd reacts sharply.
The enormous outlaw staggers forward, clutching his lower back.
But as Gawain approaches again, Little John turns suddenly.
BACK SMASH!
The blow catches the knight across the upper body.
Sir Gawain stumbles backward.
Both men remain standing for a moment, breathing heavily.
Then they retreat toward their respective corners.
Sir Gawain tags Sir Galahad.
Little John tags Friar Tuck.
Julian Ward: "A backbreaker from Sir Gawain, answered by another back smash from Little John. Both competitors have demonstrated remarkable strength, but neither has been able to sustain control."
Brick Brody: "And neither one wanted to be the first man to back down. That's what happens when you put two powerful wrestlers together. Somebody throws a heavy shot, the other answers with something just as hard, and eventually both men decide a fresh partner isn't such a bad idea."
Julian Ward: "Both teams have changed competitors again. Twelve minutes have elapsed, and the contest remains unresolved."
Minute 13
Sir Galahad advances toward Friar Tuck.
The outlaw attempts to establish a defensive position near the centre.
But the knight slips behind him.
He catches one leg and secures the waist.
LEG-HOOK BELLY-TO-BACK SUPLEX!
Friar Tuck crashes backward onto the canvas.
Sir Galahad immediately rolls into a cover.
"Fast Count" Frank drops into position.
ONE!
FRIAR TUCK KICKS OUT!
The knight rises, looking toward the referee.
Frank signals a one-count.
Sir Galahad turns back toward his opponent.
Friar Tuck rolls onto one knee, recovering from the suplex.
The knight advances again.
Julian Ward: "A leg-hook belly-to-back suplex from Sir Galahad, followed by a pinfall attempt. Friar Tuck escaped at one, but the knight continues to demonstrate considerable technical control."
Brick Brody: "That's a good suplex, Julian. Hook the leg so the other man can't plant his feet, then drive him backward. Tuck got his shoulder up quickly, but he still had to absorb the impact."
Julian Ward: "The Virtuous Blades are becoming increasingly effective at preventing the Merry Band from sustaining offense. The challenge remains finding a decisive finish."
Minute 14
Sir Galahad catches Friar Tuck as the outlaw attempts to rise.
The knight shifts behind him and lifts.
HORIZONTAL GORY SPECIAL!
Tuck is trapped across the knight's shoulders.
The pressure forces him to struggle for balance.
Sir Gawain enters from the corner.
As Galahad releases the hold and forces Tuck downward, Gawain catches him.
CRUCIFIX POWERBOMB!
The outlaw crashes into the canvas!
The Coliseum reacts sharply.
Sir Galahad moves to continue the attack.
But Friar Tuck manages to rise enough to catch the approaching knight around the head.
SLEEPER HOLD!
Tuck pulls backward, attempting to restrict Galahad's breathing.
The knight struggles against the grip.
Sir Gawain moves toward them, but "Fast Count" Frank immediately orders him back to the apron.
Galahad eventually twists free before the hold can become decisive.
Both legal competitors separate, visibly exhausted.
Julian Ward: "An extremely dangerous combination from the Virtuous Blades. Sir Galahad trapped Friar Tuck in the Horizontal Gory Special, and Sir Gawain followed with the Crucifix Powerbomb. But Tuck managed to answer with a sleeper hold."
Brick Brody: "That powerbomb was vicious! Tuck got dropped hard, but he still managed to catch Galahad around the neck. That's exactly why I like him. He doesn't need everything to go perfectly. He just needs one chance to grab you."
Julian Ward: "Fourteen minutes have elapsed. Both teams are showing signs of fatigue, but neither has surrendered control for an extended period."
Minute 15
Sir Galahad advances again, refusing to allow Friar Tuck an opportunity to recover.
The knight catches the outlaw near the centre and slips behind him.
He secures the arms and shoulders.
HORIZONTAL GORY SPECIAL!
Once again, Friar Tuck is lifted across the knight's shoulders!
The pressure increases immediately.
Tuck struggles, attempting to shift his weight and escape.
But Galahad plants his feet and maintains the hold.
"Fast Count" Frank moves closer.
"Fast Count" Frank: "Do you submit?"
Friar Tuck shakes his head.
He refuses.
Sir Gawain watches from the apron as his partner continues applying pressure.
Little John reaches desperately from the opposite corner.
But Tuck is trapped too far away.
Finally, the outlaw manages to shift his hips and force the knight to lower him.
Galahad releases the hold before the struggle carries them into the ropes.
Friar Tuck drops onto one knee, clutching his back.
Julian Ward: "The Horizontal Gory Special has been applied again. Sir Galahad has repeatedly targeted Friar Tuck's back and shoulders, forcing him to endure sustained submission pressure."
Brick Brody: "And that's how you make a man miserable. He's already taken a powerbomb and a suplex, and now Galahad is bending him across his shoulders again. Tuck refuses to quit, but refusing doesn't make the pain disappear."
Julian Ward: "The physical toll is increasing. Half the scheduled time limit has now elapsed, and the Merry Band must find a way to relieve the pressure upon Friar Tuck."
Minute 16
Friar Tuck rises slowly as Sir Galahad approaches.
The knight catches him around the head.
JUMPING REVERSE BULLDOG!
Tuck is driven face-first into the canvas!
Sir Galahad rises, attempting to continue the attack.
But Friar Tuck forces himself upright.
He rebounds from the ropes.
CROSS BODY BLOCK!
The outlaw launches himself into Galahad, knocking the knight backward!
The Coliseum erupts.
Friar Tuck rises and glances toward ringside.
Merlin stands nearby, watching intently.
The outlaw points toward the wizard.
Friar Tuck: "I've had quite enough of your tricks!"
He moves toward the ropes, clearly intending to confront Merlin.
But the wizard steps backward, remaining beyond his reach.
"Fast Count" Frank immediately intervenes, ordering Tuck away from the ropes.
The attempted retaliation comes to nothing.
Friar Tuck reluctantly turns back toward the contest.
He reaches his corner.
Tag!
Little John enters.
Julian Ward: "The jumping reverse bulldog connected, but Friar Tuck answered with a cross body block. He then attempted to confront Merlin at ringside, although the wizard avoided the situation and the referee prevented any further escalation."
Brick Brody: "And that's exactly what Merlin wants, Julian. Get the other man angry enough to stop thinking about the match. Tuck nearly walked straight into that trap. Fortunately for him, he remembered to make the tag."
Julian Ward: "Little John returns, and the Merry Band will attempt to restore momentum after several minutes of sustained pressure."
Minute 17
Little John advances toward Sir Galahad.
The knight meets him near the centre.
Galahad attempts to slip behind the enormous outlaw.
He hooks the arms and begins positioning himself for another Horizontal Gory Special.
But Little John plants his feet and resists the lift.
The larger man catches the knight around the waist.
He attempts a Backbreaker!
But Sir Galahad shifts his weight and prevents the maneuver from being completed cleanly.
The two wrestlers struggle for control.
Little John attempts to lift again.
Galahad twists free.
Neither competitor can secure the intended attack.
Both men separate near the centre.
Little John retreats toward his corner.
Tag!
Friar Tuck returns.
Julian Ward: "Both competitors attempted significant power maneuvers, but neither was able to complete the technique effectively. Sir Galahad sought another Horizontal Gory Special, while Little John attempted the backbreaker."
Brick Brody: "And that's what fatigue does, Julian. Seventeen minutes into a match, the strength you had at the opening isn't always there. Both men knew what they wanted to do, but neither could force the other into position."
Julian Ward: "The Merry Band has made another change. Friar Tuck returns despite the considerable punishment he has already absorbed."
Minute 18
Friar Tuck enters and immediately attempts to force Sir Galahad backward.
He catches the knight near the ropes and uses their tension to propel him forward.
SLINGSHOT!
Galahad is launched off balance, stumbling toward the centre.
Little John moves into position.
BACKBREAKER!
The knight is lifted and driven across the enormous outlaw's knee!
The Coliseum reacts sharply.
Sir Galahad rolls onto his side, clutching his lower back.
Friar Tuck approaches to continue the attack.
But Galahad suddenly finds enough strength to rise.
He accelerates toward the ropes.
RUNNING SHOOTING STAR PRESS!
The knight launches himself into the air and crashes across Tuck's upper body!
Both competitors remain down briefly.
Little John steps backward under the referee's instructions.
Sir Galahad rolls toward the ropes, breathing heavily.
Julian Ward: "An effective combination from the Merry Band, with Friar Tuck using the slingshot to create an opening for Little John's backbreaker. But Sir Galahad responded with a running shooting star press."
Brick Brody: "That knight is unbelievable, Julian! He gets dropped across Little John's knee and still has enough left to launch himself through the air. That's a dangerous kind of resilience."
Julian Ward: "Eighteen minutes have elapsed, and the intensity remains extraordinary. Both teams continue producing significant offense despite mounting fatigue."
Minute 19
Friar Tuck rises near the centre as Sir Galahad attempts to recover.
The outlaw rebounds from the ropes.
CROSS BODY BLOCK!
Tuck crashes into the knight, knocking him backward onto the canvas.
Little John moves in to continue the pressure.
He catches Galahad in a powerful headlock.
HEADLOCK PUNCHES!
The enormous outlaw drives a succession of heavy fists into the knight's upper body.
Sir Galahad struggles against the pressure.
But the knight refuses to surrender control.
As Little John releases the hold, Galahad manages to spring back to his feet.
He catches Friar Tuck moving toward him and forces the outlaw onto the canvas.
The knight accelerates.
RUNNING SHOOTING STAR PRESS!
The spectacular attack connects again!
Friar Tuck rolls onto his side, clutching his ribs.
Sir Galahad remains down momentarily, exhausted by the effort.
Julian Ward: "The cross body block and headlock punches gave the Merry Band another opening, but Sir Galahad has again answered with the running shooting star press. Neither team is allowing the other to maintain control."
Brick Brody: "And I don't know how much longer they can keep this pace, Julian. They're throwing heavy punches, landing hard across knees, and still launching themselves through the air. Somebody's going to run out of strength eventually."
Julian Ward: "Nineteen minutes have elapsed. The match has become a demanding test of endurance, and the scheduled time limit is beginning to assume greater significance."
Minute 20
Both legal competitors struggle upright near the centre.
Friar Tuck catches Sir Galahad with a short strike.
The knight responds with a forearm.
Tuck staggers backward.
Sir Gawain moves toward the ropes, calling for his partner.
But the situation suddenly deteriorates.
Little John enters to protect Friar Tuck.
Sir Gawain follows.
ALL FOUR MEN ARE IN THE RING!
The Coliseum erupts.
Sir Galahad catches Friar Tuck near the centre.
MICHINOKU DRIVER II-B!
The outlaw is lifted and driven into the canvas!
Across the ring, Sir Gawain catches Little John.
WHITE NOISE!
The enormous outlaw crashes onto his back!
The audience roars.
But the Merry Band refuses to surrender control.
Friar Tuck struggles upright and catches Sir Galahad near the ropes.
SLINGSHOT!
The knight is propelled forward and thrown off balance.
Meanwhile, Little John catches Sir Gawain around the head.
HEADLOCK PUNCHES!
The massive outlaw drives repeated blows into the knight's upper body.
"Fast Count" Frank moves frantically between the competitors, demanding that the illegal men return to their corners.
Neither team immediately complies.
The referee threatens to stop the contest.
Finally, Sir Gawain and Little John withdraw.
Friar Tuck and Sir Galahad remain as the legal competitors.
Both are visibly exhausted.
Julian Ward: "Complete chaos inside the ring! Sir Galahad connected with the Michinoku Driver, Sir Gawain followed with White Noise, and the Merry Band answered with the slingshot and headlock punches. The referee has finally restored order."
Brick Brody: "Now THAT'S a fight! Forget the tags for a moment. Four men beating the life out of one another because they've all had enough. Gawain and Galahad are trying to prove Camelot still has teeth, and the outlaws are refusing to give them an inch."
Julian Ward: "Twenty minutes have elapsed. The physical and emotional demands of this contest are increasing, and both sides appear determined to continue regardless of the consequences."
Minute 21
Sir Galahad attempts to rise near the ropes.
Friar Tuck advances cautiously, his movements noticeably slower after the previous exchange.
At ringside, Merlin raises his staff again.
Another flash of shimmering powder erupts near the apron!
Friar Tuck instinctively turns toward the disturbance.
Sir Galahad attempts to capitalize, catching the distracted outlaw with a sharp strike.
But Tuck manages to recover his footing.
He catches the knight near the ropes.
SLINGSHOT!
Galahad is propelled forward, stumbling toward the centre.
The two men separate, neither capable of following with an immediate decisive attack.
Friar Tuck looks angrily toward Merlin.
The wizard lowers his staff.
"Fast Count" Frank orders the ringside interference to stop.
Both competitors retreat toward their corners.
Sir Galahad tags Sir Gawain.
Friar Tuck tags Little John.
Julian Ward: "Another flash of light from Merlin distracted Friar Tuck, but the outlaw still managed to execute the slingshot. Both competitors have now made the tag."
Brick Brody: "And Tuck is getting sick of that wizard, Julian. I can't blame him. Every time he thinks he's got a clear opening, Merlin starts waving that staff around. But the old friar has kept enough discipline to stay in the match."
Julian Ward: "Nine minutes remain in the scheduled time limit. Both teams must now consider whether they can secure a decisive result before that limit expires."
Minute 22
Sir Gawain enters against Little John.
The knight advances, but his movements betray the punishment he has absorbed throughout the contest.
At ringside, Merlin closes his eyes and begins murmuring quietly.
His staff emits a faint shimmer.
The wizard directs his attention toward Gawain.
For a brief moment, the knight straightens, as though drawing upon a renewed reserve of strength.
But Little John does not allow him time to establish an attack.
The enormous outlaw steps forward and catches the knight by the shoulder.
SHOULDER CLAW!
Sir Gawain grimaces as Little John digs his powerful fingers into the muscle.
The knight attempts to pull away.
But the outlaw maintains the grip.
Gawain struggles toward the ropes, eventually forcing enough separation to break the hold.
Little John remains near the centre, watching the recovering knight.
Julian Ward: "Another unusual moment involving Merlin, who appears to be attempting to restore his knight's energy. But Little John has prevented any immediate offensive response with a powerful shoulder claw."
Brick Brody: "And that's the trouble with magic, Julian. It doesn't help much if you've got a giant squeezing your shoulder hard enough to make your arm go numb. Gawain might feel better for a moment, but Little John is still standing right in front of him."
Julian Ward: "The contest remains evenly balanced. Eight minutes remain."
Minute 23
Sir Gawain rises near the ropes, shaking out the arm that Little John had trapped.
The enormous outlaw advances again.
But Gawain catches him around the upper body.
He shifts his weight and powers upward.
FALLAWAY SLAM!
Little John is thrown backward across the canvas!
The Coliseum reacts with surprise at the display of strength.
Sir Gawain immediately moves into a cover.
"Fast Count" Frank drops into position.
ONE!
TWO!
FRIAR TUCK MAKES THE SAVE!
The outlaw charges through the ropes and breaks the cover before the third count!
The crowd erupts.
Sir Gawain sits upright, visibly frustrated.
Friar Tuck retreats toward his corner under the referee's instructions.
Little John struggles onto one knee.
He begins crawling toward the outstretched hand of his partner.
Gawain attempts to intercept him, but the larger man manages to reach the corner.
Tag!
Friar Tuck enters.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous fallaway slam from Sir Gawain, and Little John was in serious danger. Friar Tuck arrived at two to prevent the pinfall."
Brick Brody: "That was close! Gawain just threw one of the biggest men in this division across the ring and nearly pinned him. Tuck saved the match, plain and simple."
Julian Ward: "Seven minutes remain, and the Merry Band has narrowly escaped a decisive defeat. Friar Tuck now enters against an increasingly fatigued Sir Gawain."
Minute 24
Friar Tuck advances immediately.
Sir Gawain attempts to intercept him with a forearm.
But Tuck ducks beneath the strike.
He catches the knight around the head and hooks the upper body.
SNAP SUPLEX!
Sir Gawain crashes onto his back!
The Coliseum responds.
Friar Tuck rises and moves to continue the attack.
But Gawain manages to turn toward his corner.
Sir Galahad reaches forward.
Tag!
The knight enters again.
Friar Tuck immediately retreats toward his own corner.
Little John extends his hand.
Tag!
Both teams have changed competitors.
Julian Ward: "A clean snap suplex from Friar Tuck, who prevented Sir Gawain from establishing another attack. Both teams have now made the change, bringing Sir Galahad and Little John back into the contest."
Brick Brody: "And I think they're both running on fumes, Julian. But if you've got six minutes left, you don't worry about feeling good tomorrow. You find a way to win tonight."
Julian Ward: "The closing stages are approaching, and neither team has been able to secure a decisive advantage."
Minute 25
Sir Galahad advances toward Little John.
The enormous outlaw raises his guard.
Galahad catches him around the upper body and springs upward.
JUMPING REVERSE BULLDOG!
But Little John plants his feet!
The massive outlaw refuses to be pulled into the maneuver.
He catches the knight around the waist and forces him backward.
THE BULLDOG IS REVERSED!
Sir Galahad attempts to recover.
But Little John strikes first.
BACK SMASH!
The enormous outlaw drives a tremendous blow across the knight's upper body!
Sir Galahad crashes onto the canvas.
The Coliseum erupts.
Little John rises, breathing heavily.
He looks toward his partner, then back toward the fallen knight.
Galahad struggles onto one knee.
Julian Ward: "The jumping reverse bulldog was successfully countered by Little John, who answered with another powerful back smash. That is an important reversal at this late stage of the contest."
Brick Brody: "And that's why you don't try to throw a giant around when your own strength is fading. Galahad tried to pull him down, but Little John simply refused to move. Then he hit him hard enough to make him regret the attempt."
Julian Ward: "Five minutes remain. The Merry Band has an opportunity to build upon that counterattack."
Minute 26
Little John approaches Sir Galahad before the knight can recover.
He catches the exhausted competitor around the waist.
Galahad attempts to break the grip.
But Little John powers upward.
TOWERING SUPLEX!
The knight is lifted high into the air before crashing onto the canvas!
The Coliseum erupts.
Little John rises and reaches toward his corner.
Friar Tuck moves into position as the Merry Band attempts to assemble another combination.
Tuck catches the recovering knight near the ropes.
SLINGSHOT!
Sir Galahad is propelled forward, stumbling across the canvas.
The knight attempts to raise his guard, but the rapid attacks have left him struggling to recover.
"Fast Count" Frank orders the additional competitor toward the apron.
Little John remains near the centre, preparing to continue the assault.
Julian Ward: "Towering Suplex from Little John, followed by another slingshot from Friar Tuck. The Merry Band has finally established a sustained combination against Sir Galahad."
Brick Brody: "And that's the kind of offense that wins matches, Julian. Get the knight off his feet, throw him hard, and don't give him time to recover. Little John has Galahad in serious trouble."
Julian Ward: "Four minutes remain in the scheduled contest. The Virtuous Blades must find a way to interrupt this sequence before the Merry Band can secure the victory."
Minute 27
Little John catches Sir Galahad again as the knight struggles upright.
He locks his enormous arms around the upper body.
TOWERING SUPLEX!
For the second consecutive minute, Galahad is lifted and driven heavily into the canvas!
The Coliseum erupts.
Little John rises slowly, his exhaustion becoming increasingly obvious.
Friar Tuck watches from the corner, ready to assist.
But Sir Galahad refuses to stay down.
He pushes himself upright near the ropes.
As Little John approaches, the knight suddenly catches him in a rapid lift and turning strike.
BENADRYLLER!
The maneuver catches the enormous outlaw across the upper body!
Little John staggers backward.
Sir Galahad drops onto one knee, exhausted by the effort.
Neither man can immediately capitalize.
The audience rises, sensing that the contest is approaching its final moments.
Julian Ward: "Another Towering Suplex from Little John, but Sir Galahad has somehow answered with the Benadryller! Both competitors are now struggling to maintain their balance."
Brick Brody: "And that's pure survival from Galahad. He got thrown hard again, and he still found something left. But look at both men. They're exhausted. Nobody's bouncing back up anymore."
Julian Ward: "Three minutes remain. A single decisive maneuver may now determine the result."
Minute 28
Sir Galahad struggles upright near the ropes.
Little John remains near the centre, attempting to recover from the previous attack.
Friar Tuck moves in as the Merry Band attempts to restore the advantage.
The outlaw rebounds from the ropes.
CROSS BODY BLOCK!
Tuck crashes into Sir Galahad, forcing the knight backward.
But Galahad manages to recover his balance.
He catches Little John as the enormous outlaw attempts to approach.
The knight forces him onto the canvas.
Then turns toward the ropes.
He accelerates.
SPRINGS UPWARD!
THE CHOSEN FALL!
630 SENTON!
Sir Galahad crashes across Little John's upper body!
The Coliseum erupts.
Friar Tuck immediately moves toward the fallen competitors, preventing Galahad from securing an uncontested cover.
"Fast Count" Frank orders the outlaw back toward his corner.
Sir Galahad rolls away, clutching his own ribs after the impact.
Both legal competitors remain down.
Julian Ward: "The cross body block from Friar Tuck connected, but Sir Galahad has answered with another Chosen Fall! That 630 Senton may have been the most significant maneuver of the closing stages."
Brick Brody: "And where is Galahad finding the energy for that? Twenty-eight minutes into a match, and he's still launching himself through the air! That's extraordinary conditioning, Julian."
Julian Ward: "But the knight has not secured a pinfall. Two minutes remain, and the time limit may now prevent either team from achieving the victory it has fought so hard to obtain."
Minute 29
Little John rises slowly near the centre.
Sir Galahad attempts to recover against the ropes.
The enormous outlaw advances, catches the knight around the head and pulls him forward.
HEADLOCK PUNCHES!
Little John drives repeated fists into Galahad's upper body.
The knight struggles beneath the punishment.
At ringside, Merlin raises his staff once more.
He begins murmuring a low incantation.
A faint shimmer passes across the head of the staff.
Sir Galahad straightens slightly, drawing upon another brief reserve of strength.
He manages to break the headlock.
But Little John remains directly in front of him.
The two men exchange short strikes near the centre.
Neither can establish control.
Finally, both retreat toward their corners.
Sir Galahad tags Sir Gawain.
Little John tags Friar Tuck.
The crowd rises.
One minute remains.
Julian Ward: "The headlock punches from Little John have kept Sir Galahad under pressure, although Merlin appears to have attempted another restorative intervention at ringside. Both teams have now made the tag."
Brick Brody: "And this is it, Julian. One minute left. Forget pacing yourself. Forget saving something for later. If you're going to win, you'd better do it right now."
Julian Ward: "Sir Gawain and Friar Tuck will contest what may be the final exchange of this match."
Minute 30
The entire Coliseum is on its feet.
Sir Gawain advances immediately.
Friar Tuck meets him near the centre.
The knight strikes first, catching the outlaw with a hard forearm across the upper body.
Tuck staggers backward.
Gawain follows, securing a tight grip around his opponent.
He lifts.
BACKBREAKER!
Friar Tuck is driven across the knight's knee!
The impact echoes throughout the Coliseum.
The outlaw collapses onto the canvas.
Sir Gawain immediately drops into a cover.
"Fast Count" Frank slides into position.
ONE!
TWO!
LITTLE JOHN MAKES THE SAVE!
The enormous outlaw charges through the ropes and breaks the cover!
The Coliseum erupts!
Sir Gawain rolls backward, stunned that the victory has escaped him.
Little John rises and moves toward the knight.
"Fast Count" Frank steps between them, ordering the illegal competitor back to the apron.
Friar Tuck struggles onto one elbow.
Sir Gawain turns back toward him.
The knight reaches forward, desperately attempting to secure another hold.
But before he can complete the attack...
THE BELL RINGS!
THIRTY MINUTES!
THE TIME LIMIT HAS EXPIRED!
The Coliseum responds with a mixture of applause, astonishment, and frustration.
Sir Gawain freezes.
He turns toward the referee.
"Fast Count" Frank signals toward the timekeeper.
Sir Gawain: "NO! I HAD HIM!"
The knight points toward the fallen Friar Tuck.
"Fast Count" Frank shakes his head.
The scheduled time limit has expired.
At ringside, Merlin steps closer to the apron.
Sir Galahad enters the ring, looking toward the referee for confirmation.
Across from them, Little John helps Friar Tuck rise.
Both teams stand in the ring, exhausted.
Neither has won.
Julian Ward: "THE TIME LIMIT HAS EXPIRED! Thirty minutes of punishing tag team competition, and neither the Virtuous Blades nor the Merry Band has secured a decisive result! Sir Gawain connected with the backbreaker in the final minute, but Little John made the save before the third count!"
Brick Brody: "And he saved the match, Julian! Gawain had Tuck beaten after that backbreaker, but Little John got there just in time. Thirty minutes, and nobody gets the victory. That's going to drive both teams crazy!"
Julian Ward: "An extraordinary contest in which both teams demonstrated significant resilience, coordinated offense, and determination. The result remains unresolved, but the conflict between Camelot's loyal knights and the rebellion has certainly not diminished."
THE OFFICIAL DECISION
Louie Linville steps into the centre of the ring.
Sir Gawain stands beside Sir Galahad, both breathing heavily.
Friar Tuck leans against the ropes as Little John stands protectively beside him.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen... this contest has reached its THIRTY-MINUTE TIME LIMIT!"
The Coliseum applauds the effort of both teams.
Louie Linville: "Therefore, the official result of this match... is a THIRTY-MINUTE TIME-LIMIT DRAW!"
The audience responds with another sustained ovation.
Sir Gawain shakes his head in frustration.
Sir Galahad places one hand upon his partner's shoulder, encouraging him to withdraw rather than continue the confrontation.
At ringside, Merlin watches the two knights approach.
His expression remains solemn.
The Virtuous Blades have not been defeated.
But they have not restored the royal court's pride with a victory either.
Across the ring, Friar Tuck leans against Little John for a moment before straightening.
The two members of the Merry Band exchange a weary nod.
They have survived another difficult encounter with the king's loyal knights.
But the draw has left the matter unfinished.
THE AFTERMATH – AN UNFINISHED CONFLICT
Sir Gawain climbs through the ropes first.
He pauses on the apron, turning back toward the Merry Band.
Sir Galahad remains in the ring for a moment longer.
The knight looks toward Friar Tuck.
Then toward Little John.
There is no gesture of reconciliation.
But neither is there another attack.
The four men have already spent thirty minutes attempting to defeat one another.
For tonight, the confrontation is over.
Sir Galahad exits and joins Gawain beside Merlin.
The wizard looks toward the ring.
Then toward the royal crest displayed upon the entrance arch.
His expression becomes contemplative.
Earlier tonight, the king lost one of Camelot's greatest knights.
Now two more have failed to defeat the men standing against his authority.
Inside the ring, Little John raises his arm toward the crowd.
The Coliseum responds with applause.
Friar Tuck joins him, acknowledging the support.
The two men stand together beneath the lights.
They have not secured victory.
But neither have they been broken.
Julian Ward: "Thirty minutes have produced no winner, but they have demonstrated something important about both teams. The Virtuous Blades remain formidable representatives of Camelot's royal tradition. Sir Gawain and Sir Galahad fought with discipline and remarkable endurance, coming close to victory on several occasions. But the Merry Band refused to surrender, and their determination ensured that the royal court could not claim another triumph tonight."
Brick Brody: "And that's what will bother Merlin, Julian. His knights had chances to win. Gawain nearly finished it with that last backbreaker. But every time they thought they had the outlaws beaten, somebody made a save or fought back. That's not a comfortable result for a court that's already had the kind of night they've had."
Julian Ward: "The larger struggle continues. Robin Hood has declared rebellion, Sir Lancelot has chosen to stand beside him, and the loyal knights of Camelot have now fought the Merry Band to a thirty-minute stalemate. The outcome does not settle the dispute between these men. It reinforces just how deeply divided this kingdom has become."
RESULT: VIRTUOUS BLADES – SIR GAWAIN & SIR GALAHAD – AND MERRY BAND – FRIAR TUCK & LITTLE JOHN – WRESTLE TO A 30-MINUTE TIME-LIMIT DRAW.
The camera returns to the arena floor.
Merlin leads Sir Gawain and Sir Galahad toward the entrance.
Neither knight looks back.
Inside the ring, Friar Tuck and Little John remain together as the audience applauds.
The final image captures the two teams moving in opposite directions.
One toward the royal court.
The other toward the growing rebellion.
Thirty minutes have passed.
Neither side has yielded.
And Camelot's division remains unresolved.
The screen fades to black.
THE CROWN STILL HAS ITS KNIGHTS.
THE REBELLION STILL HAS ITS DEFENDERS.
The broadcast returns backstage inside Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum.
The atmosphere has shifted as Dark Fable approaches its final contest of the evening.
After thirty minutes of punishing competition between the Virtuous Blades and the Merry Band, attention now turns toward a very different confrontation.
Not a dispute over royal authority.
Not a struggle for political influence.
But a test of strength between a man who refuses to recognize his limitations and the enormous creatures assembled to prove that those limitations exist.
The camera settles upon a quiet backstage corridor near the competitors' entrance.
Standing beneath an old stone archway is Hana Nakamura, microphone in hand.
Beside her stands JOHN HENRY.
The powerful competitor is dressed in his wrestling attire, his broad shoulders and heavily muscled arms reflecting the strength that has become his defining characteristic.
Resting against the wall beside him is his enormous steel-driving hammer.
John Henry stands calmly, his hands resting at his sides.
There is no obvious anxiety.
No theatrical display of confidence.
Only the quiet determination of a man preparing for another demanding day's work.
Hana Nakamura: "Ladies and gentlemen, I'm backstage with the man who will compete in tonight's main event, John Henry."
She turns toward him.
Hana Nakamura: "John, over the past several weeks, you've accepted an extraordinary challenge from Dr. Frankenstein. After defeating Dragon King and Ogre, you've now reached the third stage of the Monsters Bash challenge."
She pauses.
Hana Nakamura: "Tonight, you face Kong."
John Henry nods once.
John Henry: "That's right."
Hana Nakamura: "And if you defeat Kong tonight, the next challenge is already waiting. Next Friday on Dark Fable, you'll face Frankenstein's Monster himself."
She looks toward the hammer resting against the wall.
Hana Nakamura: "When you first agreed to this challenge, did you expect to find yourself facing four enormous monsters in succession?"
John Henry considers the question.
John Henry: "I expected somebody to try and stop me."
A slight smile crosses his face.
John Henry: "Maybe not quite like this. But I've never been particular about the size of the man standing in front of me."
He folds his arms.
John Henry: "When I came to the Mythic Division, I told everybody what I wanted. I wanted to compete. I wanted to prove myself. And eventually, I wanted an opportunity to fight for a championship."
He pauses.
John Henry: "I didn't ask for any favors."
John Henry: "Didn't ask anybody to move out of my way."
John Henry: "Just asked them to give me somebody worth fighting."
He glances toward the distant entrance corridor.
John Henry: "And that's when the doctor decided he had something to teach me."
Hana Nakamura: "You mean Dr. Frankenstein?"
John Henry: "That's who I mean."
His expression becomes serious.
John Henry: "He looked at me and saw a man who believed hard work could carry him further than somebody like me had any right to go."
John Henry: "So he decided to test that belief."
He gestures with one hand.
John Henry: "First, Dragon King."
Another pause.
John Henry: "Then Ogre."
He looks back toward Hana.
John Henry: "And now Kong."
Hana Nakamura: "Let's talk about those first two victories. Against Dragon King, you demonstrated extraordinary strength by lifting and throwing an opponent of that size. Then last week, you defeated Ogre by submission."
She pauses.
Hana Nakamura: "In fact, you forced him to submit to a bearhug in the fourth minute."
John Henry nods.
John Henry: "Dragon King was strong. Stronger than most men I've ever stood across from."
John Henry: "And Ogre?"
He takes a slow breath.
John Henry: "That was a different kind of problem."
John Henry: "Big man. Heavy hands. Every time he put his weight on you, you felt it."
He briefly touches his ribs, remembering the impact.
John Henry: "I caught him in that bearhug once. He got out."
John Henry: "A lot of people would've looked at that and figured they needed another plan."
Hana Nakamura: "But you applied it again."
John Henry: "Because the first attempt told me something."
He looks toward her.
John Henry: "I could hold him."
John Henry: "And if I could hold him, I could make him quit."
A pause.
John Henry: "So I went back to work."
He gives a restrained nod.
John Henry: "And he quit."
Hana Nakamura: "That victory has added to what is becoming an impressive record. Through your completed matches this year, you're now 15 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw."
She smiles.
Hana Nakamura: "And you're currently riding a six-match winning streak."
Hana Nakamura: "Those are significant numbers, particularly for someone competing in a division filled with legendary warriors, supernatural creatures, and some of the most powerful wrestlers in NPCW."
John Henry looks down for a moment.
John Henry: "Fifteen wins."
He considers the number.
John Henry: "I'm proud of those."
Then he looks back toward Hana.
John Henry: "But I remember the three losses, too."
He pauses.
John Henry: "And the draw."
John Henry: "I've gone back and thought about every one of them. The things I did wrong. The places where I should've been stronger. Where I should've been quicker, or just a little smarter."
He nods slowly.
John Henry: "Those matches taught me something."
Hana Nakamura: "And what have the six consecutive victories taught you?"
John Henry: "That the work's paying off."
His answer is simple.
John Henry: "But six wins don't mean I'm finished."
John Henry: "They mean I've earned the right to keep going."
He gestures toward the arena.
John Henry: "Every man in this division wants to climb. Every man wants a better opportunity. Some of them have titles. Some have kings or armies standing behind them."
John Henry: "Me?"
He briefly looks toward his hammer.
John Henry: "I've got my two hands."
A pause.
John Henry: "They've served me well enough so far."
Hana Nakamura: "But tonight may be your greatest physical challenge yet."
Her expression becomes more serious.
Hana Nakamura: "Kong is an enormous, extraordinarily powerful competitor. His sheer size and destructive strength present dangers that go beyond anything most wrestlers would ordinarily encounter."
Hana Nakamura: "How do you prepare to fight something like that?"
John Henry takes a moment before responding.
John Henry: "Same way I prepare for any hard job."
John Henry: "You look at what's in front of you. You figure out what needs doing. And then you get to it."
He pauses.
John Henry: "I'm not foolish, Hana."
John Henry: "I know how big Kong is. I've watched him fight. I've seen what happens when he gets hold of somebody."
His expression hardens.
John Henry: "And I'm not going to stand here and tell you that getting hit by a creature like that doesn't hurt."
John Henry: "It will."
John Henry: "He'll hit me hard. He'll try to use all that weight against me. He'll try to make me carry him around that ring until my legs won't answer anymore."
He rolls one shoulder.
John Henry: "But he's going to find out I'm not easy to move either."
Hana Nakamura: "Are you planning to use the same approach that brought you victory over Dragon King and Ogre? Meeting their strength directly?"
John Henry: "When there's work to do, sometimes you've got to put your back into it."
A faint smile.
John Henry: "But there's a difference between being strong and being careless."
John Henry: "Dragon King taught me I could lift the biggest men this division has to offer."
John Henry: "Ogre taught me I could make one of those men surrender."
He steps slightly closer to the camera.
John Henry: "Tonight, Kong gets to teach me something else."
Hana Nakamura: "And what do you expect that to be?"
John Henry: "We'll know when the bell rings."
His expression remains composed.
John Henry: "That's the part I enjoy about wrestling."
John Henry: "You can make all the predictions you like beforehand. You can tell everybody how dangerous the other man is, how big he is, how impossible the challenge looks."
John Henry: "But eventually you've got to stand in the ring and find out."
John Henry: "And I've found out a few things about myself this year."
He pauses.
John Henry: "I'm looking forward to learning a little more."
Hana Nakamura: "Of course, there's another reason tonight's match is so important."
She glances toward the arena entrance.
Hana Nakamura: "If you defeat Kong, you'll face Frankenstein's Monster next week."
The name brings a subtle change to John Henry's expression.
Hana Nakamura: "That's the creature Dr. Frankenstein calls his Alpha Monster. The one he specifically wanted you to watch when this entire challenge began."
Hana Nakamura: "What does it mean to you to be one victory away from finally facing him?"
John Henry nods slowly.
John Henry: "It means I'm getting close to finding out what the doctor really wants."
Hana Nakamura: "You don't believe it's simply a test of your strength?"
John Henry: "Maybe it started that way."
He looks directly toward the camera.
John Henry: "But I've seen the way he watches."
John Henry: "When I fought Dragon King, he wasn't just looking to see whether his monster could win."
John Henry: "He was watching me."
John Henry: "Same thing with Ogre."
He pauses.
John Henry: "Every time I lifted one of those big men, every time I got back to my feet, every time I refused to stay down..."
John Henry: "He looked like a man trying to solve a problem he hadn't expected."
Hana Nakamura: "And what problem would that be?"
John Henry: "Me."
The answer hangs in the air.
John Henry: "The doctor believes he understands the limits of human strength."
John Henry: "He believes that if he builds something big enough, strong enough, and difficult enough to stop, sooner or later a man like me has to reach the end of what he can do."
He shakes his head.
John Henry: "Maybe he's right that everybody has a limit."
A pause.
John Henry: "But he doesn't get to tell me where mine is."
Hana Nakamura: "Do you think Frankenstein's Monster represents that final limit?"
John Henry looks toward the hammer beside him.
He bends down and lifts it with one hand, resting the heavy tool against his shoulder.
John Henry: "You know what happens when you drive steel into stone, Hana?"
Hana Nakamura: "What?"
John Henry: "Sometimes the stone doesn't move."
He pauses.
John Henry: "Not the first time."
John Henry: "Not the second."
John Henry: "You strike it, and all you get back is the sound of your hammer."
He adjusts the weight across his shoulder.
John Henry: "But you keep working. You find the right place. You learn where the stone is weakest."
John Henry: "And sooner or later..."
He looks directly into the camera.
John Henry: "...something gives."
A long silence follows.
Hana Nakamura: "And you're saying that about Frankenstein's Monster?"
John Henry: "I'm saying that about every challenge I've ever faced."
He pauses.
John Henry: "But I'm not making the mistake of looking past Kong."
His voice becomes firmer.
John Henry: "That would be disrespectful to him, and it'd be foolish for me."
John Henry: "Tonight is about Kong."
John Henry: "If I win, then next Friday becomes about Frankenstein's Monster."
He gives a deliberate nod.
John Henry: "One job at a time."
Hana Nakamura: "And if you do defeat all four members of the Monsters Bash challenge, what comes next?"
John Henry considers the question for a moment.
Then his expression becomes resolute.
John Henry: "Then I ask the same question I asked when this whole thing started."
Hana Nakamura: "Which is?"
John Henry: "Who else do I have to beat?"
He looks toward the camera.
John Henry: "I've got fifteen wins this year. I've won six straight. I've beaten men who were supposed to be too big and too powerful for somebody like me."
John Henry: "And if I keep winning, sooner or later I expect somebody to look at that record and decide I've earned the opportunity I've been asking for."
Hana Nakamura: "A championship opportunity?"
John Henry: "That's right."
John Henry: "I didn't come here to spend the rest of my career proving I can lift heavy things."
A slight smile crosses his face.
John Henry: "I've known that for quite a while."
Then the smile disappears.
John Henry: "I came here to prove I belong with the very best."
John Henry: "And I'm willing to do the work to get there."
Hana Nakamura: "One final question, John. If Dr. Frankenstein is watching this interview, what would you like to say to him before tonight's main event?"
John Henry turns toward the camera.
His expression remains calm.
His voice is low and steady.
John Henry: "Doctor."
A pause.
John Henry: "You asked me to face your monsters."
John Henry: "I agreed."
John Henry: "You brought me Dragon King."
John Henry: "I beat him."
John Henry: "You brought me Ogre."
John Henry: "I made him submit."
He shifts the hammer slightly.
John Henry: "Now you're bringing me Kong."
He pauses.
John Henry: "And I've got a feeling you're expecting this to be the night I finally find something I can't overcome."
His expression hardens.
John Henry: "Well, Doctor, I won't tell you I'm going to win just because I want to."
John Henry: "I'll tell you I'm going to fight."
John Henry: "I'm going to give that big creature everything I've got."
John Henry: "And if I put him down..."
He looks directly into the lens.
John Henry: "...you'd better have Frankenstein's Monster ready."
The camera holds upon his face.
John Henry: "Because I don't leave a job unfinished."
Hana Nakamura lowers her microphone slightly.
For a moment, she studies the imposing competitor beside her.
Hana Nakamura: "John Henry, thank you for your time. And good luck tonight."
John Henry: "Thank you, Hana."
He gives a respectful nod.
Then turns toward the arena entrance.
His heavy footsteps echo against the stone floor.
As he approaches the next archway, the distant Coliseum crowd begins chanting.
"JOHN HENRY!"
"JOHN HENRY!"
"JOHN HENRY!"
John Henry stops for a moment.
He looks toward the corridor leading to the ring.
Then lowers the hammer from his shoulder, placing it carefully against the wall near the entrance.
The tool remains behind.
The work waiting ahead will be done inside the ring.
John Henry rolls his shoulders once.
Then walks toward the Coliseum.
The camera remains with Hana Nakamura.
Hana Nakamura: "A remarkable declaration from John Henry. Fifteen victories this year, six consecutive wins, and two members of the Monsters Bash already defeated."
Hana Nakamura: "But tonight, he faces perhaps his greatest test yet."
She turns directly toward the camera.
Hana Nakamura: "If John Henry can defeat Kong, he will advance to face Frankenstein's Monster next Friday, bringing him one step closer to completing the challenge set before him by Dr. Frankenstein."
She pauses.
Hana Nakamura: "Can one man's strength and determination overcome another of the doctor's enormous creations?"
Hana Nakamura: "We're about to find out."
The broadcast transitions to the arena.
A deep metallic impact echoes throughout the Coliseum.
Once.
Twice.
Three times.
On the enormous screens, sparks erupt from a steel rail beneath the descending head of a hammer.
The image changes.
A massive silhouette emerges from the darkness.
KONG.
The silhouette towers over the screen.
Then another figure appears opposite it.
JOHN HENRY.
The two figures stand facing one another.
Between them, the words appear.
MONSTERS BASH – THIRD CHALLENGE
JOHN HENRY VS. KONG
IF JOHN HENRY WINS:
FRANKENSTEIN'S MONSTER AWAITS NEXT WEEK.
The graphic slowly fades.
In its place appears the dark, imposing silhouette of Frankenstein's Monster.
Motionless.
Waiting.
Then the screen cuts back to the main event graphic.
JOHN HENRY VS. KONG.
TONIGHT'S MAIN EVENT – NEXT.
Referee: "Fast Count" Frank
The broadcast returns to Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum.
The arena lights have dimmed, and the capacity crowd waits beneath the enormous stone arches of Camelot's grandest sporting venue.
Throughout tonight's broadcast, the Mythic Division has witnessed political upheaval, championship controversy, and the growing fracture between King Arthur and those who refuse to accept his authority.
But the final contest of the evening concerns something different.
A question that has followed John Henry since the moment he accepted the challenge issued by Dr. Frankenstein.
How much can one man accomplish through strength, determination, and sheer refusal to surrender?
The enormous screens illuminate.
A replay begins.
DRAGON KING.
The massive creature stands across from John Henry.
The footage advances to the moment when John Henry lifts the giant and hurls him across the ring with Iron Collision.
Then the image changes.
OGRE.
The towering monster struggles inside a powerful bearhug.
John Henry tightens his grip.
Ogre submits.
Two challenges.
Two victories.
Then the screen goes black.
A low, guttural roar echoes throughout the Coliseum.
An immense silhouette emerges from the darkness.
KONG.
Beneath the creature's image, the words appear.
MONSTERS BASH – CHALLENGE THREE
JOHN HENRY VS. KONG
The final image shows Frankenstein's Monster standing motionless inside a dark laboratory.
ONE VICTORY AWAY.
The camera returns to the commentary desk.
Julian Ward: "Ladies and gentlemen, we have arrived at tonight's main event. John Henry has already defeated Dragon King and Ogre as part of the challenge established by Dr. Frankenstein. Tonight, he faces the enormous Kong, and a victory would advance him to a confrontation with Frankenstein's Monster next Friday."
Brick Brody: "And I don't care how strong John Henry is, Julian. This is getting ridiculous. The doctor keeps bringing him something bigger and more dangerous. Dragon King couldn't stop him. Ogre couldn't stop him. Now he's got Kong waiting, and that's a completely different kind of problem."
Julian Ward: "John Henry enters tonight with a record of fifteen victories, three defeats, and one draw this year. He has won six consecutive matches, and his performance against these enormous opponents has been particularly impressive."
Brick Brody: "Those numbers tell you the man can wrestle. But tonight isn't just about numbers. Kong can hit you like a collapsing building. One mistake against a creature that powerful can erase twenty minutes of good work."
Julian Ward: "And we should remember the role of Dr. Frankenstein. The doctor has repeatedly described this series of contests as a test of human limitations. But with every victory, John Henry has challenged his assumptions."
Brick Brody: "Maybe tonight the doctor gets the answer he's been looking for. Or maybe John Henry keeps proving him wrong. Either way, we're about to find out how much punishment the man of steel can survive."
THE ENTRANCE OF JOHN HENRY
Silence falls across the arena.
Then a single metallic impact rings out.
CLANG.
A second strike follows.
CLANG.
Then a third.
CLANG.
The massive screens illuminate with the image of a steel hammer striking an iron rail.
Sparks erupt across the darkness.
A powerful, deliberate rhythm begins.
From beneath the entrance arch emerges JOHN HENRY.
The Coliseum erupts!
The powerful competitor stands beneath the arena lights, his enormous hammer resting across one shoulder.
There is no theatrical celebration.
No exaggerated display of confidence.
Only the quiet, unmistakable determination of a man who understands the difficulty of the work waiting ahead.
John Henry surveys the Coliseum.
The crowd begins chanting.
"JOHN HENRY!"
"JOHN HENRY!"
"JOHN HENRY!"
He gives a brief nod of acknowledgment.
Then lowers the hammer from his shoulder.
He places it carefully beside the entrance structure.
Tonight's contest will be fought with his own strength.
Nothing else.
John Henry begins walking toward the ring.
His expression remains calm.
His movements are measured.
But there is unmistakable purpose in every step.
Julian Ward: "Here comes John Henry. Earlier tonight, he told Hana Nakamura that he would not underestimate Kong or look beyond this match toward Frankenstein's Monster. His focus is entirely upon the opponent waiting for him tonight."
Brick Brody: "And that's the right attitude. I like a man who knows he has to work for what he wants. John Henry isn't asking somebody to hand him a championship. He's beating the opposition they put in front of him. But he's about to find out whether strength is enough against this particular monster."
Julian Ward: "His victory over Ogre was especially significant. The bearhug submission demonstrated that his strength is not merely spectacular; it can produce a decisive result against some of the largest competitors in the division."
Brick Brody: "But you've got to get hold of Kong first. And once you do, you might discover you've grabbed something that's perfectly capable of crushing you right back."
John Henry reaches ringside.
He pauses to study the squared circle.
Then climbs the steps and enters between the ropes.
He walks toward the centre, rolling his shoulders once.
The man of steel looks toward the entrance.
And waits.
THE ENTRANCE OF KONG
The lights suddenly go dark.
A deep, rumbling sound begins beneath the Coliseum's speakers.
The enormous screens display a prehistoric jungle.
Ancient trees tower into darkness.
Massive branches shift beneath the weight of something moving beyond the visible foliage.
A distant roar echoes.
Then another.
The jungle image shakes.
A colossal silhouette emerges through the mist.
KONG.
The sound of enormous footsteps begins reverberating throughout the arena.
Then the entrance arch fills with smoke.
From the darkness steps DR. FRANKENSTEIN.
The doctor wears his familiar dark coat, his hands folded behind his back.
His expression is controlled.
Almost pleased.
He pauses at the centre of the entrance platform.
Then turns toward the darkness behind him.
Another enormous roar shakes the Coliseum.
And KONG emerges.
The creature's immense body fills the entrance arch.
His enormous shoulders and powerful arms create an imposing silhouette beneath the cold arena lights.
Every step carries tremendous weight.
The crowd responds with a mixture of astonishment, apprehension, and scattered boos.
Dr. Frankenstein turns back toward the ring.
His attention is not fixed upon the monster accompanying him.
It is fixed upon John Henry.
The doctor offers a faint smile.
Then gestures toward the ring.
Kong begins advancing.
Julian Ward: "There is Kong, one of the most physically imposing creatures associated with the Monsters Bash. His size and strength present a serious challenge to any competitor, including a man with the extraordinary power of John Henry."
Brick Brody: "Look at the size of him, Julian! That's not just a big wrestler. That's an enormous creature that can pick up a full-grown man and throw him around like he weighs nothing. John Henry has beaten giants before, but he had better be ready for something special tonight."
Julian Ward: "And the doctor has accompanied his monster once again. Dr. Frankenstein has made no secret of his interest in discovering whether John Henry's strength has a limit."
Brick Brody: "And look at him smiling. That's the face of a man who thinks he's finally brought the right problem to the experiment. But he had that look when Dragon King came out, too. And when Ogre came out. We'll see how much he's smiling when this one is over."
Kong reaches ringside.
He stops directly in front of the ring.
Inside, John Henry stands near the centre.
The two stare at one another.
Kong places both enormous hands upon the apron.
He climbs into the ring.
The ropes shift beneath his weight.
Dr. Frankenstein takes his position at ringside.
The two competitors stand opposite one another.
There is no attempt at intimidation from John Henry.
He merely steps forward.
Kong answers with a guttural growl.
John Henry does not retreat.
THE FORMAL INTRODUCTIONS
Louie Linville steps into the centre of the ring.
Referee "Fast Count" Frank stands nearby, carefully observing the enormous competitors.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is your MAIN EVENT of the evening, scheduled for ONE FALL!"
The Coliseum erupts.
Louie Linville: "Introducing first... a man of extraordinary strength... a competitor who has already defeated Dragon King and Ogre in the Monsters Bash challenge... the legendary MAN OF STEEL... JOHN HENRY!"
John Henry raises one arm.
The crowd responds with a sustained ovation.
Louie Linville: "And his opponent... accompanied to the ring by DR. FRANKENSTEIN... an immense creature of almost unimaginable physical power... KONG!"
Kong raises his enormous arms and releases another guttural roar.
The Coliseum responds with astonishment.
Louie Linville retreats toward the ropes.
"Fast Count" Frank steps between the competitors.
He completes his instructions.
John Henry nods.
Kong barely acknowledges the referee.
At ringside, Dr. Frankenstein watches intently.
The official signals for the bell.
Minute 1
The bell rings.
John Henry steps immediately toward the centre of the ring.
But Kong moves faster than expected.
The enormous creature advances with a sudden burst of aggression.
John Henry raises both arms, preparing to meet him in a test of strength.
But Kong does not offer a conventional tie-up.
Instead, he raises both enormous fists above his head.
SLEDGEHAMMER TO THE CHEST!
The double-handed blow crashes downward across John Henry's upper body!
The sound of the impact echoes throughout the Coliseum.
John Henry staggers backward.
He attempts to remain upright, but the enormous force of the strike drives him toward one knee.
Kong follows immediately.
He catches the man of steel around the shoulders and forces him toward the ropes.
John Henry struggles against the pressure.
But the opening assault has already established the creature's immense physical power.
Dr. Frankenstein watches from ringside.
His expression is one of quiet satisfaction.
Julian Ward: "An astonishing opening from Kong! That double-handed sledgehammer blow caught John Henry directly across the chest, and the man of steel was immediately driven backward. The creature has established a significant early advantage."
Brick Brody: "That's what I was talking about, Julian! John Henry came forward ready to test strength, and Kong nearly knocked the breath clean out of him. You can't prepare your chest for something that powerful landing directly on it."
Julian Ward: "The danger is immediately apparent. John Henry must find a way to withstand these enormous strikes if he intends to survive this contest."
Minute 2
John Henry pushes himself upright near the ropes.
Kong advances, attempting to continue the punishment.
But the man of steel steps forward to meet him.
KNEE LIFT!
John Henry drives his knee sharply into the creature's midsection!
Kong recoils, momentarily folding beneath the impact.
The Coliseum erupts.
John Henry attempts to follow with another strike.
But Kong catches him around the upper body.
The giant twists sharply, using his enormous reach and momentum.
JUNGLE SWING!
SWINGING SIDE SLAM!
John Henry is lifted and driven violently into the canvas!
The ring shakes beneath the impact.
Kong rises slowly, looking down at his opponent.
But John Henry has already begun pushing himself onto one elbow.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous knee lift from John Henry, but Kong answered with the Jungle Swing, that powerful swinging side slam. The physical exchanges have been extraordinary already."
Brick Brody: "And there's your problem. John Henry catches him with a knee hard enough to stop most men in their tracks, but Kong still grabs him and throws him down. You've got to do more than hurt this monster. You've got to keep him from answering."
Julian Ward: "Both competitors are demonstrating enormous strength, but the creature's size and reach are already proving difficult to overcome."
Minute 3
John Henry rises near the centre.
Kong advances again.
The man of steel slips behind the enormous creature.
He secures both arms around the waist.
BACK SUPLEX BOMB!
John Henry attempts to lift.
But Kong plants his feet and shifts his enormous weight backward.
The lift stalls.
John Henry strains against the resistance.
For a moment, the creature's feet leave the canvas.
But Kong manages to force himself downward before the maneuver can be completed.
Both men stumble apart.
Kong attempts to capitalize on the separation.
He forces John Henry down near the ropes, then begins climbing toward the middle turnbuckle.
DIVING HEADBUTT!
But John Henry rolls away!
Kong crashes onto the canvas without connecting cleanly!
The enormous creature immediately pushes himself upright.
John Henry does the same.
Both men return to the centre.
Neither has gained a meaningful advantage from the exchange.
Julian Ward: "John Henry attempted the back suplex bomb, but Kong prevented the lift. The creature then attempted a diving headbutt, only for John Henry to avoid the attack. Neither maneuver connected effectively."
Brick Brody: "And that tells you plenty about this matchup. John Henry can lift enormous opponents, but Kong knows how to use his weight. And that missed headbutt was dangerous for the creature, too. You don't want that much weight coming down on empty canvas."
Julian Ward: "Three minutes have elapsed. Both men are discovering that their usual power advantages may not be sufficient against an equally formidable opponent."
Minute 4
Kong advances with renewed aggression.
John Henry attempts to establish another grip around the creature's upper body.
But Kong catches him first.
He locks both enormous hands around the head and shoulders.
SNAPMARE!
John Henry is thrown forward onto the canvas!
The creature follows immediately, placing enormous pressure across the man of steel's upper back.
John Henry attempts to turn beneath the weight.
But Kong remains close, preventing an immediate escape.
The man of steel eventually forces himself onto one knee.
Kong steps backward, watching him rise.
At ringside, Dr. Frankenstein continues observing with an increasingly satisfied expression.
Julian Ward: "A forceful snapmare from Kong, who has once again taken control of the exchange. The creature is using its size effectively, forcing John Henry to support enormous weight while attempting to recover."
Brick Brody: "And that's exhausting, Julian. Every time Kong gets hold of him, John Henry has to fight against all that mass just to get back to his feet. That's how a big monster wears down a strong man."
Julian Ward: "The doctor's strategy appears increasingly clear. He wants to discover whether repeated physical punishment can finally overwhelm the man of steel."
Minute 5
John Henry rises near the centre.
Kong approaches, preparing another heavy attack.
But the man of steel steps forward instead of retreating.
He plants his feet.
Draws his arm backward.
And swings with tremendous force.
HAMMER DROP!
THE FOREARM SMASH CONNECTS!
The impact crashes across Kong's upper chest and shoulder!
For the first time, the enormous creature visibly staggers.
The Coliseum erupts!
John Henry advances immediately, refusing to allow the creature an opportunity to recover.
Kong raises both arms, attempting to block another strike.
But the man of steel maintains his position, driving the giant backward toward the ropes.
Dr. Frankenstein steps closer to the apron.
His expression tightens.
Julian Ward: "Hammer Drop! John Henry has connected with that devastating forearm smash, and Kong was unable to defend against it. The creature has been forced backward for the first time tonight."
Brick Brody: "Now that's the man of steel! He stood his ground and hit Kong with enough force to make that giant stagger. You don't see many people do that, Julian."
Julian Ward: "A significant shift in momentum. John Henry has demonstrated that his striking power can affect even an opponent of this extraordinary size."
Minute 6
John Henry attempts to capitalize on the opening.
He catches Kong around the upper body and shifts his weight beneath the creature.
The Coliseum rises.
John Henry lifts.
BACKBREAKER!
The enormous creature is driven across the man of steel's knee!
The impact echoes through the ring.
Kong staggers forward, clutching his lower back.
But the monster responds almost immediately.
He catches John Henry by the arm and drives him toward the corner.
KNEEBUSTER!
The creature lifts the man of steel and drops his leg across a raised knee!
John Henry staggers backward, briefly favoring the affected leg.
Both men remain standing.
Kong growls and advances again.
John Henry raises his guard.
Julian Ward: "An extraordinary backbreaker from John Henry, who managed to lift Kong and drive him across his knee. But the creature answered with a kneebuster, targeting the man of steel's leg."
Brick Brody: "And that's smart from Kong. If you want to stop a man who can lift giants, attack the legs. You can't pick somebody up if you can't plant your feet. But don't overlook what John Henry just did. He lifted that monster!"
Julian Ward: "Both competitors are now attempting to compromise the physical foundations of their opponent's strength. This is becoming an intensely demanding contest."
Minute 7
Kong advances, attempting to exploit the damage to John Henry's leg.
The creature reaches for another hold.
But the man of steel steps inside his grasp.
John Henry catches the giant around the waist.
He bends his knees.
Then drives upward.
BACKBREAKER!
AGAIN!
The Coliseum erupts!
Kong is lifted and driven across John Henry's knee for the second consecutive minute!
The enormous creature collapses onto the canvas, clutching his back.
John Henry remains on one knee, breathing heavily after the effort.
He rises slowly.
Kong attempts to push himself upright, but the impact has clearly affected his mobility.
At ringside, Dr. Frankenstein leans forward, studying the creature's reaction.
Julian Ward: "Another backbreaker! John Henry has lifted Kong again and driven him across his knee! The creature was unable to defend the maneuver, and the cumulative damage to its lower back may become significant."
Brick Brody: "I'll say it again, Julian. He lifted him! Twice! I don't know how many men in this company could do that once, let alone twice in consecutive minutes. The doctor wanted a test of strength. Well, he's getting one."
Julian Ward: "The man of steel has now established his most sustained advantage. But Kong remains extraordinarily dangerous, particularly when given an opportunity to use its size."
Minute 8
Kong rises near the ropes, holding his lower back.
John Henry advances, attempting to keep the creature from regaining control.
The two lock up near the centre.
Kong attempts to force the man of steel backward.
But John Henry lowers his centre of gravity.
He catches the enormous opponent around the upper body.
And lifts.
BODYSLAM!
Kong crashes onto the canvas!
The ring shakes beneath the impact.
The Coliseum erupts again.
John Henry rises, breathing heavily.
But the creature pushes itself upright.
As John Henry approaches, Kong catches him around the upper body.
JUNGLE SWING!
The swinging side slam drives the man of steel violently into the canvas!
Both competitors remain down briefly.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous bodyslam from John Henry, but Kong answered immediately with another Jungle Swing. The creature is demonstrating extraordinary resilience despite the repeated backbreakers."
Brick Brody: "And that's why this match is so dangerous. John Henry lifts him, slams him, and the monster gets up and throws him right back. These men are trading impacts that would finish most wrestling matches."
Julian Ward: "Eight minutes have elapsed, and neither competitor has been able to maintain control for long. The physical punishment is accumulating rapidly."
Minute 9
Both men rise slowly.
John Henry and Kong meet near the centre, each attempting to establish a grip.
For several seconds, neither can force the other backward.
They lock hands.
Shoulders strain.
Boots press against the canvas.
The Coliseum rises as the enormous competitors struggle for leverage.
But Kong suddenly releases one hand.
He steps backward.
Then raises both fists above his head.
SLEDGEHAMMER TO THE CHEST!
The double-handed blow crashes into John Henry!
The man of steel staggers backward.
He attempts to remain upright, but the force drives him toward the ropes.
Kong advances, maintaining the pressure.
John Henry raises his guard, struggling to recover from the impact.
Julian Ward: "Another sledgehammer blow from Kong. The two competitors were locked in a test of strength, but the creature broke the engagement and delivered another devastating strike across John Henry's chest."
Brick Brody: "And that's a smart adjustment. Why waste energy trying to push him backward when you can just hit him with both fists? Kong doesn't need to win a strength contest in the traditional sense. He just needs to make the man of steel hurt."
Julian Ward: "Nine minutes have elapsed. The repeated attacks to the upper body are becoming a serious concern for John Henry."
Minute 10
John Henry pushes himself away from the ropes.
Kong advances, preparing another strike.
But the man of steel moves first.
HAMMER DROP!
The forearm smash crashes across the creature's upper body!
Kong staggers.
John Henry follows immediately, attempting to drive the monster backward.
But Kong plants his feet.
He raises both massive fists.
SLEDGEHAMMER TO THE CHEST!
The blow crashes downward with tremendous force!
John Henry staggers backward, clutching his upper body.
Both men remain standing.
The Coliseum erupts at the sight of the two powerhouses refusing to retreat.
John Henry slowly straightens.
Kong growls and raises his arms again.
Neither advances immediately.
Both are breathing heavily.
Julian Ward: "Hammer Drop from John Henry, answered by another sledgehammer to the chest from Kong! These are extraordinary strikes, and both competitors continue absorbing punishment that would overwhelm most opponents."
Brick Brody: "They're trying to beat each other into the canvas, Julian! John Henry hits him with that forearm, and Kong answers by bringing both fists down like a demolition hammer. I don't know how either one is still standing."
Julian Ward: "Ten minutes have elapsed. This contest is becoming a direct examination of endurance as much as physical strength."
Minute 11
John Henry advances cautiously.
The man of steel is visibly feeling the effects of the repeated blows to his chest.
Kong moves forward to meet him.
They collide near the centre.
John Henry attempts to establish a body lock.
But the creature spreads its stance, preventing the lift.
The man of steel changes position, searching for another opening.
Kong responds by forcing both arms against his opponent's shoulders.
The two struggle for control.
Neither can complete a meaningful attack.
John Henry attempts to shift behind the creature, but Kong turns with him.
The enormous opponents remain locked together for several seconds before finally separating.
Both retreat a step.
The crowd applauds the stalemate.
Julian Ward: "Neither competitor could complete a significant maneuver during that exchange. John Henry attempted to secure a lifting position, but Kong prevented him from gaining the necessary leverage."
Brick Brody: "And they're both starting to feel it, Julian. Eleven minutes of lifting, slamming, and getting hammered across the chest. You can't keep that up forever. Sooner or later, something gives."
Julian Ward: "The tempo has slowed, but the danger has not diminished. Both men remain capable of producing a decisive attack with very little warning."
Minute 12
John Henry steps forward, attempting to break the stalemate.
Kong raises his arms to intercept him.
But the man of steel catches the creature around the upper body.
He plants his feet.
And lifts.
BODYSLAM!
Kong is driven heavily into the canvas!
The Coliseum erupts.
John Henry rises, breathing heavily from the effort.
But the creature begins pushing itself upright almost immediately.
The giant catches John Henry before he can move away.
He forces the man of steel onto his back.
Then rises above him.
Kong throws his enormous body forward.
SPLASH!
THE CREATURE CRASHES ACROSS JOHN HENRY'S CHEST!
The ring shakes violently!
The Coliseum gasps.
Kong remains on top of his opponent.
"Fast Count" Frank drops into position.
ONE!
TWO!
JOHN HENRY KICKS OUT!
The crowd erupts!
Kong rises slowly, clearly surprised that the man of steel escaped the cover.
John Henry rolls onto his side, clutching his ribs.
At ringside, Dr. Frankenstein steps closer to the apron.
Julian Ward: "A tremendous bodyslam from John Henry, but Kong answered with that devastating splash! The creature covered immediately, and the man of steel barely escaped before the third count."
Brick Brody: "That was a mountain landing on his chest, Julian! I don't care how strong you are. When something the size of Kong comes down on top of you, your body feels every bit of it. John Henry was lucky to get that shoulder up."
Julian Ward: "Our first significant pinfall opportunity has gone to Kong. The physical danger facing John Henry is becoming increasingly apparent."
Minute 13
John Henry struggles upright, still feeling the effects of the enormous splash.
Kong advances, looking to continue the punishment.
But the man of steel ducks beneath the creature's reaching arms.
He catches Kong around the upper body.
Then shifts his grip into a pumphandle position.
The Coliseum begins rising.
John Henry strains against the enormous weight.
He lifts.
STEEL DRIVER!
PUMPHANDLE SITOUT POWERBOMB!
KONG IS DRIVEN INTO THE CANVAS!
The ring shakes beneath the impact!
The audience erupts in disbelief!
John Henry remains seated momentarily, breathing heavily after completing the extraordinary lift.
Across the ring, Kong rolls onto his side.
But the creature refuses to stay down.
He begins pushing himself upright.
As John Henry approaches, Kong catches him around the head and shoulders.
SNAPMARE!
The man of steel is thrown forward onto the canvas!
Both competitors remain down briefly.
Julian Ward: "STEEL DRIVER! John Henry has lifted Kong into that pumphandle sitout powerbomb! An extraordinary display of strength! But the creature managed to recover enough to answer with a snapmare."
Brick Brody: "I DON'T BELIEVE IT! He got him up! He actually got that monster off the mat and drove him down with the Steel Driver! You can see why Dr. Frankenstein keeps watching this man. How many people on earth can do that?"
Julian Ward: "Thirteen minutes have elapsed, and John Henry has demonstrated that even the most imposing member of the Monsters Bash can be lifted and driven into the canvas. But he has yet to secure a decisive result."
Minute 14
Both men rise slowly.
John Henry advances, attempting to keep the creature from regaining its balance.
He catches Kong around the waist.
ATOMIC DROP!
The giant jolts upright from the impact, staggering forward.
John Henry follows, raising his arm for another strike.
But Kong recovers enough to force the man of steel backward.
The creature turns toward the corner.
He climbs onto the middle turnbuckle.
John Henry struggles to rise near the centre.
Kong launches himself forward.
DIVING HEADBUTT!
THE ENORMOUS CREATURE CONNECTS!
The impact drives John Henry violently into the canvas!
The Coliseum erupts in alarm.
Kong immediately rolls into a cover.
"Fast Count" Frank drops into position.
ONE!
TWO!
JOHN HENRY KICKS OUT!
The crowd explodes!
Kong rises onto one knee.
The creature stares down at the man of steel in frustration.
John Henry rolls onto his side, visibly stunned.
Dr. Frankenstein steps toward the apron, watching the exhausted competitor struggle to recover.
Julian Ward: "A devastating diving headbutt from Kong! The creature connected with extraordinary force, and John Henry was barely able to escape the pinfall at two. That may have been the closest the man of steel has come to defeat during this challenge."
Brick Brody: "That was unbelievable, Julian! Kong launched that enormous body through the air and drove his head straight into John Henry! I thought the match was over. I genuinely thought that was three!"
Julian Ward: "Fourteen minutes have elapsed. The man of steel has survived a tremendous attack, but the cumulative punishment to his chest, ribs, and upper body is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore."
Minute 15
John Henry pushes himself upright near the ropes.
His movements are noticeably slower.
Kong advances, attempting to capitalize on the damage caused by the diving headbutt.
But the man of steel refuses to retreat.
He steps beneath the creature's reaching arms.
Catches the waist.
And lifts.
BACKBREAKER!
Kong is driven across John Henry's knee!
The Coliseum erupts!
The enormous creature collapses onto the canvas, clutching his lower back.
John Henry remains on one knee, breathing heavily.
He has now targeted the creature's back repeatedly throughout the contest.
Kong attempts to rise, but the pain forces him to hesitate.
At ringside, Dr. Frankenstein watches carefully.
His expression no longer carries the same confidence displayed during the entrance.
Julian Ward: "Another backbreaker from John Henry! Despite the punishment he has absorbed, the man of steel continues lifting Kong and attacking the creature's lower back."
Brick Brody: "And now that's becoming a serious problem for the monster. Kong has taken multiple backbreakers, a bodyslam, and the Steel Driver. You can see him struggling to straighten up. John Henry is breaking him down piece by piece."
Julian Ward: "Fifteen minutes have elapsed. The man of steel has survived the most dangerous attacks of the contest and is now attempting to turn accumulated damage into a finishing opportunity."
Minute 16
Kong rises slowly near the centre.
John Henry approaches, carefully measuring the enormous opponent.
The creature raises his arms, preparing another heavy strike.
But the man of steel steps inside the attack.
He secures the upper body.
Hooks the arm.
And changes his grip.
THE PUMPHANDLE POSITION!
The Coliseum begins roaring.
John Henry plants his feet.
He drives upward.
STEEL DRIVER!
FOR THE SECOND TIME!
KONG IS LIFTED AND DRIVEN INTO THE CANVAS!
The impact echoes throughout the Coliseum!
John Henry remains seated briefly, his chest heaving from the enormous effort.
The creature rolls onto his side.
For several seconds, Kong does not move.
Then one enormous arm presses against the canvas.
The monster begins pushing himself upright.
John Henry rises slowly.
He looks down at his opponent.
The realization is unmistakable.
The creature can be hurt.
It can be lifted.
And it can be driven down.
Julian Ward: "ANOTHER STEEL DRIVER! John Henry has completed the pumphandle sitout powerbomb for the second time tonight! Kong had no answer for the maneuver, and the creature is now struggling to recover."
Brick Brody: "Twice, Julian! TWICE! That's an extraordinary amount of strength. And I don't care how much Dr. Frankenstein believes in his monsters. He's watching John Henry lift this one and drive him into the canvas over and over again!"
Julian Ward: "Sixteen minutes have elapsed. The man of steel has established another significant advantage, and the creature's recovery is becoming noticeably slower."
Minute 17
John Henry approaches the recovering Kong.
The creature struggles onto one knee.
But the man of steel steps directly into his reach.
He wraps both powerful arms around the enormous torso.
BEARHUG!
The Coliseum erupts!
John Henry has secured the same hold that forced Ogre to submit last week!
Kong struggles against the grip.
The enormous creature attempts to pry the man's hands apart.
But John Henry plants his feet and tightens the hold.
Kong releases a guttural roar.
"Fast Count" Frank moves closer, asking whether the creature wishes to submit.
At ringside, Dr. Frankenstein suddenly becomes animated.
He moves toward the timekeeper's area.
And reaches for a steel chair.
The crowd begins booing.
Julian Ward: "Wait a moment! John Henry has the bearhug applied, but Dr. Frankenstein has taken a steel chair from ringside!"
Brick Brody: "And now the doctor is worried! He knows exactly what happened to Ogre when John Henry locked that hold in. He's not about to stand there and watch another monster surrender!"
Dr. Frankenstein approaches the apron.
"Fast Count" Frank is focused upon the struggling creature, checking for a submission.
The doctor raises the chair.
He strikes toward John Henry from outside the ring!
THE STEEL CHAIR CONNECTS!
The man of steel jolts from the impact.
His grip loosens.
Kong shifts his immense weight and forces himself free!
The Coliseum erupts in outrage.
John Henry staggers backward, turning toward the apron.
Dr. Frankenstein has already lowered the chair.
"Fast Count" Frank turns toward the disturbance.
But the doctor steps backward before the official can see the weapon being used.
The referee moves toward the ropes, warning the doctor to remain clear of the ring.
John Henry glares at Dr. Frankenstein.
The doctor offers no apology.
He merely straightens his coat.
Inside the ring, Kong struggles upright, still breathing heavily after escaping the submission.
The interference has broken the hold.
But neither competitor has secured a decisive advantage.
Julian Ward: "That is disgraceful! Dr. Frankenstein has used a steel chair to interrupt the bearhug! John Henry had Kong trapped, and the doctor has deliberately interfered to prevent another submission."
Brick Brody: "And there's your answer about how concerned the doctor is! He saw Kong struggling, remembered what happened to Ogre, and decided he wasn't waiting around to see whether the monster could escape on his own."
Julian Ward: "The referee did not witness the chair strike, and the contest continues. But the interference has undoubtedly denied John Henry an important opportunity."
Minute 18
John Henry turns away from the apron.
His expression has hardened.
Across the ring, Kong attempts to recover from the prolonged bearhug.
The man of steel advances.
The enormous creature raises both arms, attempting to prevent another body lock.
But John Henry steps beneath the guard.
He catches Kong around the upper body.
And lifts.
BODYSLAM!
Kong crashes into the canvas!
The Coliseum erupts!
John Henry rises immediately.
He turns toward Dr. Frankenstein.
For one moment, the man of steel stares directly at the doctor.
Then he turns back toward his opponent.
There will be no distraction.
Not now.
Julian Ward: "Another bodyslam from John Henry! Despite the chair interference, he has immediately regained his focus and lifted Kong once again."
Brick Brody: "And that's exactly the response he needed. Don't waste time chasing the doctor around ringside. Don't lose your temper and get disqualified. Pick the monster up and slam him. That's how you make the interference meaningless."
Julian Ward: "Eighteen minutes have elapsed, and John Henry remains determined to complete this challenge despite the extraordinary circumstances."
Minute 19
Kong rises near the ropes.
John Henry advances again.
He catches the creature around the upper body.
BODYSLAM!
AGAIN!
The enormous monster is lifted and driven into the canvas!
The Coliseum erupts.
John Henry rises slowly, breathing heavily.
But Kong refuses to remain down.
The creature pushes himself upright.
As the man of steel approaches again, Kong catches him around the torso.
JUNGLE SWING!
SWINGING SIDE SLAM!
John Henry crashes backward into the canvas!
The impact leaves both competitors struggling to recover.
Kong rolls onto one knee.
John Henry turns onto his side.
The crowd begins applauding the extraordinary endurance of both men.
Julian Ward: "Another bodyslam from John Henry, answered by the Jungle Swing! These competitors continue exchanging tremendous power maneuvers despite the enormous punishment they have absorbed."
Brick Brody: "And now we're seeing the cost, Julian. John Henry can still lift the monster. Kong can still throw him. But neither one is bouncing back up anymore. They're having to fight just to stand."
Julian Ward: "Nineteen minutes have elapsed. The cumulative damage is becoming unmistakable, and the next decisive opportunity may well determine the result."
Minute 20
John Henry pushes himself upright near the ropes.
Kong rises slowly across from him.
The creature advances, attempting to maintain the pressure established by the Jungle Swing.
But the man of steel plants his feet.
He draws his arm backward.
HAMMER DROP!
THE FOREARM SMASH CONNECTS!
Kong staggers backward!
The Coliseum erupts!
John Henry advances immediately.
The monster raises its arms, attempting to defend against another strike.
But the man of steel remains directly in front of him.
Kong attempts to move forward.
His damaged back and accumulated exhaustion slow the movement.
John Henry forces the creature backward toward the ropes.
At ringside, Dr. Frankenstein watches with visible frustration.
Julian Ward: "Hammer Drop! John Henry has connected again, and Kong was unable to defend the forearm smash. The creature's resistance is becoming noticeably slower."
Brick Brody: "And now the doctor has to be wondering how much his monster has left. Kong has taken backbreakers, bodyslams, two Steel Drivers, and those heavy forearms. You don't just shrug that off forever."
Julian Ward: "Twenty minutes have elapsed. John Henry is now attempting to impose his will upon an opponent who has repeatedly demonstrated extraordinary durability."
Minute 21
Kong rises near the centre, breathing heavily.
John Henry advances cautiously.
The man of steel catches the creature around the waist.
ATOMIC DROP!
Kong jolts upright from the impact.
The creature staggers forward.
John Henry attempts to continue the attack.
But Kong suddenly turns.
He raises both enormous fists above his head.
SLEDGEHAMMER TO THE CHEST!
The double-handed blow crashes into John Henry!
The man of steel staggers backward.
He attempts to remain standing.
But the impact forces him toward one knee.
Kong advances, looking to capitalize.
John Henry raises his guard and begins pushing himself upright again.
The crowd rises, urging him onward.
Julian Ward: "Atomic Drop from John Henry, but Kong has answered with another sledgehammer to the chest! The creature still possesses enough strength to deliver devastating strikes."
Brick Brody: "And that's why you never assume a monster is finished, Julian. John Henry had him staggering, but Kong still found enough strength to nearly knock him down with both fists. This match is still dangerous for either man."
Julian Ward: "Twenty-one minutes have elapsed. Both competitors are exhausted, but neither has accepted defeat."
Minute 22
John Henry rises near the centre.
Kong advances, attempting to establish another body lock.
But the man of steel slips beneath the creature's arms.
He catches the enormous opponent around the upper body.
The Coliseum begins roaring.
John Henry plants his feet.
He lifts.
BODYSLAM!
THE MONSTER CRASHES INTO THE CANVAS!
The ring shakes once more!
John Henry remains standing for a moment, his chest heaving from the effort.
But Kong refuses to stay down.
The creature rises slowly, visibly struggling to straighten his back.
As John Henry approaches again, Kong catches him around the head.
SNAPMARE!
The man of steel is thrown forward onto the canvas!
Both competitors remain down briefly.
Dr. Frankenstein approaches the apron, urging his creature to continue.
John Henry rolls onto one knee.
Kong does the same.
The two face one another.
The Coliseum rises to its feet.
Julian Ward: "Another bodyslam from John Henry, answered by the snapmare from Kong! Twenty-two minutes into this extraordinary contest, neither competitor has found the decisive maneuver."
Brick Brody: "And look at them, Julian. Both men are exhausted. John Henry keeps finding the strength to lift this monster, and Kong keeps finding enough left to answer. But somebody's going to make one mistake, and at this stage, one mistake could finish everything."
Julian Ward: "The man of steel is attempting to complete the third challenge of the Monsters Bash. A victory would place him one step away from Frankenstein's Monster. But Kong remains directly in his path."
Minute 23
Both men rise slowly.
The Coliseum is on its feet.
John Henry stands near the centre.
Across from him, Kong struggles to straighten his enormous frame.
The creature's lower back has absorbed repeated punishment.
His movements have become heavy.
His breathing is labored.
But he continues advancing.
Dr. Frankenstein watches from ringside, gripping the edge of the apron.
Kong raises both enormous arms.
He approaches the man of steel.
John Henry does not retreat.
The creature reaches forward, attempting to establish another powerful body lock.
But John Henry steps inside the enormous arms.
He plants his feet.
And drives his knee upward.
KNEE LIFT!
THE STRIKE CONNECTS!
John Henry's knee crashes into Kong's midsection with tremendous force!
The creature folds forward.
The air escapes from his lungs.
For a moment, Kong attempts to remain standing.
But his exhausted body can no longer support him.
THE MONSTER COLLAPSES!
John Henry immediately follows him to the canvas!
He hooks the enormous leg!
"Fast Count" Frank drops into position!
ONE!
The Coliseum erupts!
TWO!
Dr. Frankenstein steps toward the apron!
THREE!
THE BELL RINGS!
JOHN HENRY HAS DEFEATED KONG!
The Coliseum EXPLODES!
John Henry releases the cover and rolls backward onto the canvas.
He lies on his back, breathing heavily.
Twenty-three minutes of punishing competition have taken an enormous toll.
But the result is unmistakable.
Kong has been defeated.
The man of steel has completed the third challenge.
And next week, he will face the final monster.
Julian Ward: "KNEE LIFT! John Henry has defeated Kong! After twenty-three minutes of extraordinary physical punishment, the man of steel has secured the pinfall! Three challenges have now been completed, and Frankenstein's Monster awaits next Friday!"
Brick Brody: "HE DID IT! I don't believe it, Julian! Kong threw everything he had at him! Sledgehammers to the chest, Jungle Swings, that enormous diving headbutt! And John Henry survived every bit of it! Then he caught the monster with one final knee lift and put him down for three!"
Julian Ward: "A remarkable performance from John Henry. He endured the creature's most dangerous attacks, survived two significant pinfall attempts, overcame direct interference from Dr. Frankenstein, and ultimately secured the victory through strength, endurance, and determination."
THE OFFICIAL DECISION
Louie Linville steps into the centre of the ring.
"Fast Count" Frank approaches the exhausted winner.
John Henry slowly pushes himself upright.
The referee takes his wrist and raises his arm.
The Coliseum erupts again.
Louie Linville: "Ladies and gentlemen... the winner of this contest, by PINFALL in the TWENTY-THIRD MINUTE..."
The crowd grows louder.
Louie Linville: "...JOHN HENRY!"
The man of steel's music fills the arena.
John Henry raises both arms, acknowledging the crowd.
Then he lowers them and leans against the ropes, exhausted by the extraordinary effort.
Across the ring, Kong has begun recovering.
The enormous creature rolls onto his side, attempting to push himself upright.
At ringside, Dr. Frankenstein remains motionless.
His expression is cold.
His eyes move from the recovering monster to the man standing victorious in the ring.
For several seconds, the doctor says nothing.
Then he slowly steps toward the apron.
THE FOURTH CHALLENGE AWAITS
John Henry notices Dr. Frankenstein approaching.
The man of steel straightens.
The doctor places one hand upon the top rope.
Dr. Frankenstein: "Impressive."
His voice is quiet.
Measured.
But there is unmistakable irritation beneath the politeness.
Dr. Frankenstein: "I confess, John Henry, you continue to produce results that warrant further examination."
John Henry stares back at him.
John Henry: "That so?"
Dr. Frankenstein: "Quite."
The doctor glances toward the enormous creature recovering inside the ring.
Dr. Frankenstein: "Dragon King."
A pause.
Dr. Frankenstein: "Ogre."
He looks back toward the man of steel.
Dr. Frankenstein: "And now Kong."
The doctor gives a slight nod.
Dr. Frankenstein: "Three formidable specimens. Three very different demonstrations of physical superiority."
He pauses.
Dr. Frankenstein: "And yet, somehow, you continue."
John Henry takes a slow breath.
John Henry: "That's usually what happens when a man finishes the work he starts."
The crowd cheers.
Dr. Frankenstein's expression tightens.
Dr. Frankenstein: "You are confusing successful exertion with the absence of limits."
John Henry: "No, Doctor."
He shakes his head.
John Henry: "I'm just showing you that you haven't found mine yet."
The Coliseum erupts!
Dr. Frankenstein stares at him.
The doctor slowly straightens.
Dr. Frankenstein: "Then perhaps it is time we concluded this experiment."
A pause.
Dr. Frankenstein: "Next Friday."
His eyes narrow.
Dr. Frankenstein: "You will face my greatest creation."
He allows the declaration to settle.
Dr. Frankenstein: "The Alpha Monster."
Dr. Frankenstein: "FRANKENSTEIN'S MONSTER."
The Coliseum responds with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension.
John Henry does not look away.
Dr. Frankenstein: "You have defeated giants, John Henry. You have overcome considerable strength and unusual durability."
He takes one slow step closer to the ropes.
Dr. Frankenstein: "But my final creation is not merely another giant."
A pause.
Dr. Frankenstein: "He is the culmination of everything you believe you can overcome."
John Henry studies the doctor for a moment.
Then gives a restrained nod.
John Henry: "Good."
The doctor raises an eyebrow.
John Henry: "That's what I've been waiting for."
The crowd cheers.
John Henry: "You told me to face your monsters."
John Henry: "I did."
John Henry: "You wanted to find out how strong I was."
He gestures toward the fallen creature.
John Henry: "Now you've seen."
He pauses.
John Henry: "So next Friday, you bring your best."
John Henry: "And I'll bring mine."
His expression hardens.
John Henry: "But Doctor..."
Another pause.
John Henry: "Keep that chair out of it."
The Coliseum erupts.
Dr. Frankenstein offers a thin, unpleasant smile.
Dr. Frankenstein: "We shall see what proves necessary."
The doctor turns away from the apron.
He approaches Kong, who has finally managed to rise near the ropes.
For a moment, Dr. Frankenstein studies the defeated creature.
There is no reassurance.
No congratulation for the effort.
Only cold assessment.
He gestures toward the entrance.
Kong begins withdrawing from the ring.
John Henry watches them leave.
Then he raises one arm toward the Coliseum crowd.
The audience erupts once more.
THE MAIN EVENT AFTERMATH
Julian Ward: "An extraordinary victory for John Henry. Twenty-three minutes against Kong, and the man of steel has secured another decisive result. He has now defeated three members of the Monsters Bash challenge and earned the opportunity to face Frankenstein's Monster next Friday."
Brick Brody: "And you heard the doctor, Julian. He's finally bringing out the Alpha Monster. That's the one he's been saving. That's the creation he believes can do what Dragon King, Ogre, and Kong couldn't do."
Julian Ward: "But John Henry has demonstrated a remarkable capacity for overcoming adversity. Tonight he survived enormous punishment, including the diving headbutt and repeated sledgehammer blows. He also endured direct interference from Dr. Frankenstein without allowing it to decide the outcome."
Brick Brody: "And that's what impresses me most. The doctor used a chair. Kong nearly pinned him twice. Every time you thought the man of steel had finally reached his limit, he got up and kept fighting. Now there's only one monster left."
Julian Ward: "The final question has now been established. Can John Henry complete the challenge by defeating Frankenstein's Monster? Or will the Alpha Monster finally impose the limitation that Dr. Frankenstein has spent weeks attempting to demonstrate?"
Brick Brody: "I don't know, Julian. But after what we saw tonight, I wouldn't bet against John Henry without thinking very carefully. This man has something you can't manufacture in a laboratory."
Julian Ward: "And what is that?"
Brick Brody: "The refusal to quit."
Julian Ward: "A remarkable main event, and another important victory for the man of steel. The third challenge is complete. The fourth awaits."
RESULT: JOHN HENRY DEFEATS KONG BY PINFALL IN THE 23RD MINUTE FOLLOWING A KNEE LIFT.
JOHN HENRY COMPLETES THE THIRD MONSTERS BASH CHALLENGE AND ADVANCES TO FACE FRANKENSTEIN'S MONSTER NEXT WEEK.
The camera returns to the ring.
John Henry stands alone beneath the Coliseum lights.
His body bears the evidence of twenty-three minutes of punishment.
His chest rises and falls heavily.
His shoulders are bruised.
His movements are slower than when he entered.
But he is standing.
And he is victorious.
At the entrance, Dr. Frankenstein pauses beside the departing Kong.
He turns back toward the ring.
For several seconds, the doctor studies the man who has now defeated three of his enormous challengers.
Then he looks toward the arena screens.
The image changes.
A dark laboratory appears.
Lightning illuminates an enormous figure standing motionless beneath hanging chains.
FRANKENSTEIN'S MONSTER.
The Alpha Monster slowly raises his head.
His expression is unreadable.
The image cuts back to John Henry.
The man of steel studies the screen.
His expression remains calm.
Then he slowly raises one fist.
The Coliseum erupts.
Across the massive screens, the announcement appears.
NEXT FRIDAY ON DARK FABLE
MONSTERS BASH – FINAL CHALLENGE
JOHN HENRY
VS.
FRANKENSTEIN'S MONSTER
WITH DR. FRANKENSTEIN
The image remains for several seconds.
Then the camera slowly returns to John Henry.
He looks toward the entrance where his final opponent will emerge next week.
The crowd continues chanting his name.
"JOHN HENRY!"
"JOHN HENRY!"
"JOHN HENRY!"
He gives a single, deliberate nod.
One challenge remains.
One final monster stands between the man of steel and the completion of the test that has consumed his recent weeks.
And for the first time since the challenge began, Dr. Frankenstein has no larger creature left to offer afterward.
The camera lingers on the victorious John Henry.
The image slowly fades.
THREE MONSTERS DEFEATED.
ONE FINAL TEST AWAITS.
The broadcast returns to a wide shot of Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum.
The main event has concluded, but the atmosphere remains electric.
The audience continues applauding the extraordinary performance of John Henry, who has defeated Kong and earned the opportunity to face Frankenstein's Monster next week.
Inside the arena, production personnel begin preparing the ring for the conclusion of the broadcast.
The lights soften.
Then the enormous screens illuminate with the familiar imagery of Dark Fable.
An ancient book opens.
Its pages turn slowly.
Tonight's events begin appearing across the parchment.
The camera returns to the commentary desk, where Julian Ward and Brick Brody prepare to bring another extraordinary chapter of the Mythic Division to a close.
Julian Ward: "Ladies and gentlemen, what an extraordinary evening here at Scrooge's Camelot Coliseum. We began tonight with a kingdom already divided, a missing Excalibur, and a king increasingly determined to bring those who oppose him to heel."
Brick Brody: "And somehow, Julian, things got even worse for the king! Arthur started the night demanding answers about his sword and ended up watching one of his greatest knights walk away from him. You don't recover from something like that with another royal decree."
Julian Ward: "Let's revisit some of the defining moments of tonight's Dark Fable."
TONIGHT'S EVENTS – A KINGDOM FRACTURED
The arena screens show footage from the royal throne room.
King Arthur sits upon his throne, surrounded by the Shadow Court.
A hooded merchant stands before him.
The figure removes his disguise.
ROBIN HOOD!
The footage replays his declaration.
Robin Hood: "THE REBELLION BEGINS NOW!"
The image changes to the confrontation that followed.
King Arthur rises in fury, accusing the outlaw of stealing Excalibur.
The royal knights charge.
But Allan A Dale, the Blood-Moon Warden, Friar Tuck, and Little John intervene, allowing the rebellion's leader to escape.
Julian Ward: "The evening's most consequential development began when Robin Hood infiltrated the royal court and openly declared rebellion. King Arthur demanded an immediate confrontation, and Commissioner Elias Coldmere sanctioned a six-man tag team match."
The footage advances to the entrance of Mordred.
The Eternal Flame Champion emerges as the surprise third member of the rebellion's team.
Then the decisive moments of the contest appear.
Sir Agravaine reaches desperately toward Sir Lancelot.
But the legendary knight steps down from the apron.
King Arthur erupts in anger.
And the Blood-Moon Warden catches the distracted Sir Agravaine with the decisive dropkick.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
The footage changes to Sir Lancelot shaking hands with Robin Hood.
The rebels stand together.
Brick Brody: "Twenty-seven minutes, and the whole thing came apart because Lancelot refused that tag. Agravaine got pinned, Arthur lost the match, and suddenly the rebellion has one of Camelot's greatest knights standing beside it. That's not just a defeat, Julian. That's a disaster for the Shadow Court."
Julian Ward: "And the king's missing sword remains an unresolved question. Robin Hood has denied responsibility, while Arthur's accusations have only deepened the hostility between the throne and those challenging its authority."
The replay transitions to the opening contest.
Lady Isolde Blackthorne and Prioress Malveil battle Crimson Viper and Dark Duchess.
The final seconds expire.
The time-limit bell rings.
Julian Ward: "We also witnessed two demanding tag team encounters that could not be settled within their scheduled thirty-minute limits. The Black Chapel and the Queens of Punishment battled to a draw in our opening contest."
The images change to Sir Gawain delivering a backbreaker to Friar Tuck.
Little John charges into the ring and breaks the cover.
The bell sounds.
Brick Brody: "And the Virtuous Blades nearly got the job done against the Merry Band, but Little John made that final save. Thirty minutes, no winner, and another reason for Camelot's loyal knights to be frustrated."
The footage changes to the Universal Championship.
Hansel catches Severin Crowne in a sunset flip.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
The champion retains.
Then the image turns darker.
Tin Man, Sir Agravaine, and the Sheriff of Nottingham surround the exhausted champion.
The post-match attack begins.
Julian Ward: "Hansel successfully defended the Universal Championship against Severin Crowne, reversing the outcome of their earlier meeting in Osaka. But the victory was followed by a brutal assault from the Shadow Court."
Brick Brody: "And now the champion has another problem. After Convergence, he's defending that title against Crowne and Sir Agravaine in a Triple Threat Match. Two members of the same faction going after one championship. I don't envy him."
The replay briefly shows Morgana Le Faye securing the Sorceress's Embrace.
Serpenta Veyne submits.
Julian Ward: "Elsewhere, Morgana Le Faye delivered one of the evening's swiftest victories, forcing Serpenta Veyne to submit in the third minute and securing the win for herself, Rosalyn the Queen of Thorns, and Yurei Rinn."
Finally, the footage turns to the main event.
John Henry lifts Kong into the Steel Driver.
The enormous creature crashes into the canvas.
Later, Dr. Frankenstein uses a steel chair to interrupt a bearhug.
But the concluding exchange belongs to the man of steel.
John Henry drives his knee into Kong's midsection.
The creature collapses.
ONE!
TWO!
THREE!
Julian Ward: "And in tonight's main event, John Henry defeated Kong after twenty-three punishing minutes. The man of steel has now overcome three of the enormous challengers placed before him by Dr. Frankenstein."
Brick Brody: "And the doctor even tried using a chair to stop him! Didn't matter. John Henry survived, fought back, and put that monster down. But next week is the one we've all been waiting for."
The footage ends.
The arena screens go black.
Then a new title appears.
NEXT WEEK ON DARK FABLE
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2026 – EPISODE 040
Six match graphics will appear in succession.
MATCH 1 – LADY GUINEVERE VS. MAID MARION
The first graphic rises beneath the golden imagery of Camelot.
On one side stands Lady Guinevere.
On the other, Maid Marion.
Behind them, the royal court and the forests of Sherwood provide opposing backdrops.
Julian Ward: "Next Friday, the conflict surrounding Camelot continues when Lady Guinevere faces Maid Marion. Two women standing on opposite sides of a kingdom increasingly divided by rebellion."
Brick Brody: "And don't think that just because this isn't Arthur against Robin Hood, it means the stakes are any lower. The Queen of Camelot against one of Sherwood's most prominent allies? There's plenty of pride involved in that one."
The graphic fades.
MATCH 2 – HANSEL VS. SIR GAWAIN
NON-TITLE MATCH
The reigning Universal Champion appears on one side of the screen.
Across from him stands Sir Gawain, representing the Virtuous Blades and the royal court.
The Universal Championship is displayed beneath Hansel, with a clear designation that it will not be defended in this contest.
Julian Ward: "The Universal Champion will also be in action. Hansel faces Sir Gawain in a non-title encounter, just one week after suffering that vicious assault by the Shadow Court."
Brick Brody: "And Gawain won't have forgotten what happened tonight either. His team couldn't beat the Merry Band, and the Shadow Court couldn't take the Universal Championship. He has a chance to change the story by beating Hansel next week."
Julian Ward: "The title will not be at stake, but a victory over the reigning champion would undoubtedly be significant."
The screens change.
MATCH 3 – RAIGEN VS. TIN MAN
The imposing image of Raigen appears beneath the emblem of the Dragon's Veil.
Across from him stands the cold metallic figure of Tin Man.
Julian Ward: "Also next week, Raigen faces Tin Man. Raigen has repeatedly refused to submit to the expectations of the royal court, and now he faces one of its most imposing enforcers."
Brick Brody: "And Tin Man is dangerous enough on his own. We saw what he did to Hansel after the championship match. Raigen had better be ready for a fight, because that metal giant doesn't need much of an opening to hurt somebody."
The graphic fades into darkness.
A familiar metallic heartbeat begins sounding.
MATCH 4 – JOHN HENRY VS. FRANKENSTEIN'S MONSTER
MONSTERS BASH – FINAL CHALLENGE
The image of John Henry appears.
Opposite him stands Frankenstein's Monster.
Behind the Alpha Monster, the shadowed face of Dr. Frankenstein emerges.
Julian Ward: "And the moment that John Henry has fought toward for weeks finally arrives. Having defeated Dragon King, Ogre, and now Kong, he will face Frankenstein's Monster in the final stage of the Monsters Bash challenge."
Brick Brody: "This is the big one, Julian. The doctor has saved his Alpha Monster for last. Three of his creatures have failed to stop John Henry. Now he's putting his greatest creation in there against him. I want to see whether the man of steel can do it one more time."
Julian Ward: "Should John Henry succeed, he will have answered every physical challenge that Dr. Frankenstein has placed before him. But defeating the Alpha Monster may prove to be the most difficult task of all."
The image dissolves into dark gold.
CONVERGENT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
JACK LUMBER (C) VS. HERACLES
The Convergent Championship appears in the centre of the screen.
On the left, the reigning champion, Jack Lumber.
On the right, the legendary Heracles.
Julian Ward: "And we have two championship matches scheduled for next Friday. First, Jack Lumber defends the Convergent Championship against Heracles. The reigning champion faces one of the most celebrated figures of legendary strength."
Brick Brody: "Now THAT is a championship fight! Jack Lumber has been fighting his way through the Mythic Division with that title around his waist, but Heracles is a different kind of challenge. A man whose entire legend is built around strength and impossible feats. I want to see what happens when those two collide."
Julian Ward: "The Convergent Championship will be on the line, and a victory for either competitor would carry considerable importance."
The screen darkens again.
Then the North Star Tag Team Championships appear.
NORTH STAR TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
FAIREST HUNTERS (C) VS. QUEENS OF DESPAIR
The reigning champions, Snow White and Gretel, appear on one side of the graphic with their championship belts.
Across from them stand Regina and Malice, the Queens of Despair.
Behind the challengers, the dark imagery of the Shadow Court rises against the championship's golden light.
Julian Ward: "And our second championship encounter will see the reigning North Star Tag Team Champions, Snow White and Gretel, the Fairest Hunters, defend against Regina and Malice, the Queens of Despair."
Brick Brody: "And that match was settled in the throne room earlier tonight. The Black Chapel wanted an opportunity, but Arthur made his choice. The Queens of Despair get the first shot at the champions."
Julian Ward: "The Fairest Hunters have worked to establish themselves as worthy holders of those championships. But their first challenge from the Shadow Court's chosen representatives promises to test them in a very different way."
Brick Brody: "And this time, there's gold on the line. Regina and Malice aren't going to be satisfied with a good showing. They're coming for the championships."
The individual graphics fade.
All six matches appear together beneath the Dark Fable title.
NEXT WEEK – DARK FABLE EPISODE 040
OCTOBER 30, 2026
Lady Guinevere vs. Maid Marion
Hansel vs. Sir Gawain – Non-Title Match
Raigen vs. Tin Man
John Henry vs. Frankenstein's Monster – Monsters Bash Final Challenge
Convergent Championship – Jack Lumber (C) vs. Heracles
North Star Tag Team Championship – Fairest Hunters (C) vs. Queens of Despair
The graphic holds for several seconds.
Then the camera returns to the commentary desk.
THE FINAL WORD
Julian Ward: "Six important matches await us next Friday, including two championship defenses and the conclusion of John Henry's extraordinary journey through the Monsters Bash challenge."
Brick Brody: "And you can add the entire situation surrounding Camelot to that, Julian. The king is furious, the Shadow Court has been embarrassed, and Sir Lancelot is now standing beside the very people he's been ordered to destroy. That's not something you settle with one wrestling match."
Julian Ward: "Indeed. Tonight began with King Arthur attempting to assert his authority over Camelot. It ended with his rebellion growing stronger, his most trusted enforcers divided, and several of the kingdom's most important disputes left unresolved."
The camera briefly shows footage of Robin Hood, Mordred, the Blood-Moon Warden, and Sir Lancelot standing together.
Julian Ward: "But perhaps the defining image of this evening will remain the sight of Sir Lancelot choosing to stand beside Robin Hood rather than obey the command of his king."
Brick Brody: "Because that changes everything. It's one thing when an outlaw declares rebellion. It's another when a knight who helped build the legend of Camelot decides the king has gone too far. The Shadow Court has plenty of power left, Julian, but tonight proved that power doesn't guarantee loyalty."
Julian Ward: "And that may ultimately become the question upon which the future of Camelot turns. Is loyalty owed to the man who wears the crown, or to the principles that gave the crown its meaning?"
A brief silence follows.
Brick Brody: "Whatever the answer, I wouldn't want to be the man standing in the middle when those two sides finally collide."
Julian Ward: "Tonight, we have seen champions retain their titles, alliances fracture, rebellions strengthen, and the boundaries of human endurance tested once again."
He looks toward the camera.
Julian Ward: "And next week, the consequences continue."
He pauses.
Julian Ward: "For Brick Brody, Hana Nakamura, Louie Linville, and everyone behind the scenes at NPCW, I'm Julian Ward."
Julian Ward: "Thank you for joining us tonight."
Julian Ward: "Good night from Dark Fable."
THE CLOSING IMAGES
The arena lights slowly fade.
A final montage begins.
Hansel raises the Universal Championship, battered but victorious.
Morgana Le Faye stands over the defeated Serpenta Veyne.
Friar Tuck and Little John stand together after thirty minutes of competition, their contest with the Virtuous Blades unresolved.
John Henry raises his arm following his victory over Kong.
The image dissolves into the dark laboratory of Dr. Frankenstein.
Frankenstein's Monster stands beneath a distant flash of lightning.
Waiting.
Then the montage turns toward Camelot.
King Arthur sits upon his throne.
His expression is severe.
Excalibur remains missing.
His kingdom remains divided.
And somewhere beyond the reach of his court, the rebellion continues to grow.
The image changes one final time.
Robin Hood stands beside the Blood-Moon Warden and Mordred.
Then Sir Lancelot steps into the frame.
Four men.
Four figures who have now openly challenged the authority of Camelot's throne.
Robin Hood looks toward the camera.
His expression is resolute.
The image freezes.
Slowly, the screen turns black.
Ancient parchment appears.
A quill writes a single sentence.
A KING MAY COMMAND OBEDIENCE.
BUT HE CANNOT COMMAND BELIEF.
The parchment begins to burn around its edges.
As the flames spread, the familiar Dark Fable insignia emerges.
NPCW: DARK FABLE
EVERY LEGEND HAS A DARKER CHAPTER.
The flames extinguish.
The screen fades completely to black.
Airing October 23, 2026
A ceremonial blade rests upon white cloth.
Beside it are two bowls.
One filled with clear water.
The other empty.
Taro Okami kneels before them.
Around the room stand the monks of the Dragon's Veil.
Raigen stands directly behind Taro.
The Keeper of the Veil enters carrying a long white cord.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“The body can be reclaimed.”
He places the cord before Taro.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“The mind can remember itself.”
He places the blade beside it.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“But an oath cannot be taken.”
The Keeper sits opposite him.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“It must be surrendered.”
Taro looks down at the ceremonial blade.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“The Blood Oni Syndicate binds through blood.”
Taro remains still.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“You swore yourself to them.”
TARO OKAMI:
“Yes.”
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“You accepted their protection.”
TARO OKAMI:
“Yes.”
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“You accepted their purpose.”
A pause.
TARO OKAMI:
“Yes.”
The Keeper slides the empty bowl toward him.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“Then tonight, you return what was given.”
Taro takes the blade.
He cuts his palm.
Blood falls into the bowl.
One drop.
Two.
Three.
The monks begin chanting.
The Keeper takes the white cord and ties one end loosely around Taro's bleeding hand.
The other end is wrapped around a carved wooden symbol representing the Blood Oni.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“Say the name.”
Taro stares at the symbol.
TARO OKAMI:
“Blood Oni Syndicate.”
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“Name the one who commands it.”
Taro hesitates.
TARO OKAMI:
“Lord Kurogami.”
The chanting grows louder.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“Name what he owns.”
Taro's eyes slowly rise.
TARO OKAMI:
“Nothing.”
Raigen watches closely.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“Again.”
TARO OKAMI:
“Nothing.”
The Keeper takes the ceremonial blade.
He places it against the white cord.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“Then sever the debt.”
Taro takes the blade from him.
He cuts the cord.
The wooden Blood Oni symbol falls forward.
The monks slam their staffs against the floor.
THOOM.
Taro exhales sharply.
His eyes close.
The Keeper pours the clear water into the bowl containing Taro's blood.
The crimson slowly fades.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“It is finished.”
Raigen closes his eyes.
Relief.
For the first time, he places a hand on Taro's shoulder.
RAIGEN:
“Welcome back.”
Taro looks up.
His expression is difficult to read.
But he slowly places his hand over Raigen's.
TARO OKAMI:
“Thank you... brother.”
Raigen nods.
The monks begin departing.
The Keeper takes the diluted blood and walks toward a stone basin built into the wall.
He pours it away.
Taro watches.
The last drops disappear through the drain.
Taro lowers his gaze.
His bleeding palm touches the floor.
Directly over the final dragon seal.
The black scar flares.
Once.
Taro removes his hand.
For the first time, all three hidden marks briefly appear.
One.
Two.
Three.
Then vanish.
The Keeper turns.
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“You may sleep tonight without guards.”
Taro bows.
TARO OKAMI:
“You honor me.”
KEEPER OF THE VEIL:
“Trust is part of cleansing.”
Taro looks toward him.
TARO OKAMI:
“Yes.”
A pause.
TARO OKAMI:
“It is.”
The camera stays on Taro as everyone leaves.
The door closes.
Silence.
Taro remains kneeling.
Ten seconds pass.
Then twenty.
His head slowly rises.
The calm disappears from his face.
He looks toward the camera.
Not surprised by its presence.
Not afraid.
He reaches into his robe.
For the first time, he produces a tiny black medallion.
The symbol of the Blood Oni Syndicate.
Taro places it on the floor.
Not discarded.
Carefully positioned.
Almost reverently.
He whispers four words.
TARO OKAMI:
“The gates are open.”
CUT TO BLACK.
Airing October 23, 2026 — Following Dark Fable Episode 039
The screen opens on darkness.
Wind moves through a dead forest.
Not strongly.
Just enough to make the bare branches scrape against one another with a slow, dry rhythm.
Beyond them—
A tower rises against the night.
Tall.
Narrow.
Ancient.
Built from black-gray stone weathered by centuries of rain and magic.
There are no torches.
No windows glowing from within.
No banners.
Nothing to suggest anyone has lived here for some time.
At the base of the structure stand two figures.
Sir Edric Roseguard.
St. George.
Both men stare upward.
Edric slowly circles the base of the tower, running one gloved hand across the stone.
Nothing.
No door.
No hinge.
Not even the outline of an entrance.
St. George watches him make another circuit.
ST. GEORGE: We have walked around it three times.
Edric continues studying the wall.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: Four.
ST. GEORGE: That makes it considerably better.
Edric stops.
Looks at him.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: You are welcome to find the door.
St. George looks back at the tower.
ST. GEORGE: I have killed dragons with more accommodating architecture.
Edric almost smiles.
Almost.
He presses against another section of stone.
Solid.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: Richard said Myrrden valued his privacy.
ST. GEORGE: Apparently Myrrden valued it more than visitors.
George steps toward the wall.
He studies the stone for several seconds.
Then his expression changes.
ST. GEORGE: Actually—
Edric turns.
George reaches beneath his cloak and withdraws a small wrapped package.
Edric recognizes it immediately.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: The Wizard.
ST. GEORGE: He gave it to me before we left.
Edric raises an eyebrow.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: You waited until now to mention that?
ST. GEORGE: He told me to use it if the tower refused us entry.
A beat.
George glances at the completely featureless wall.
ST. GEORGE: I believe we have reached that point.
He unwraps the package.
Inside rests a small glass vial filled with pale silver-gray dust.
Beside it—
A narrow piece of brittle parchment covered in symbols neither knight recognizes.
Edric leans closer.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: Can you read that?
ST. GEORGE: No.
Edric looks at him.
George turns the parchment over.
On the reverse—
The Wizard has written several words phonetically.
ST. GEORGE: Fortunately, he knows me.
George uncorks the vial.
He takes a small amount of dust between his fingers.
Throws it across the stone.
The particles cling unnaturally to the wall.
Tiny silver sparks move between them.
George raises the parchment.
Carefully—
He speaks the ancient words.
The sound feels wrong in his mouth.
Older than either knight expects.
The final syllable fades.
Nothing happens.
Edric waits.
George waits.
The tower remains exactly as it was.
Ten seconds.
Twenty.
Edric looks toward him.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: Was there another line?
George checks.
ST. GEORGE: No.
Another pause.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: Perhaps your pronunciation—
George slowly turns his head.
ST. GEORGE: Finish that sentence carefully.
Edric smiles faintly.
Then—
A soft cracking sound.
Both men turn.
The dust on the wall has begun moving.
Not falling.
Moving.
Separating itself into hundreds of thin glowing lines.
The stone beneath it ripples.
Edric takes a step backward.
The wall begins to dissolve.
There is no explosion.
No flash.
The stone simply ceases to be solid.
Individual bricks become translucent, then smoke-like, then disappear entirely.
A tall opening forms before them.
Beyond—
Darkness.
George folds the parchment.
ST. GEORGE: My pronunciation appears adequate.
Edric draws his sword.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: After you.
George draws his own.
ST. GEORGE: Naturally.
They enter.
Behind them—
The wall slowly reforms.
The last sliver of moonlight disappears.
Darkness.
Then Edric produces a small lantern.
The flame catches.
The interior of Myrrden's tower emerges around them.
Dust.
Stone.
Bookshelves.
Long-unused candles.
A staircase winding upward through the center of the structure.
No servants rush to greet them.
No apprentice challenges their intrusion.
Nothing moves.
George looks around.
ST. GEORGE: Richard was correct.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: About what?
ST. GEORGE: Myrrden had no adepts.
His voice echoes through the empty tower.
ST. GEORGE: Which means if he disappeared—
George looks upward.
ST. GEORGE: No one remained to notice.
Edric's expression hardens.
They begin climbing.
The search takes time.
Room after room sits abandoned.
An alchemical chamber with dried ingredients still arranged across a long table.
A library filled with forbidden magical works.
An observatory whose brass instruments remain pointed toward stars that have moved since the last time anyone touched them.
Everywhere—
Dust.
The deeper they go, the clearer it becomes.
Myrrden did not carefully abandon this place.
He simply stopped returning.
Edric opens a cabinet.
A sudden hiss.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: George—
A rune explodes to life beneath his hand.
George lunges forward and pulls him backward.
A bolt of violet energy tears across the room and strikes the opposite wall.
Stone blackens instantly.
Both men stare at the scorch mark.
ST. GEORGE: Privacy.
Edric exhales.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: Yes.
He looks at the cabinet.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: We have established that.
Later—
George steps across an engraved circle.
The floor vanishes beneath him.
He drops—
Edric catches his wrist.
Below George's boots is not another floor.
It is an endless star-filled void.
George looks down.
Then up at Edric.
ST. GEORGE: I am beginning to dislike this man.
Edric strains, pulling him upward.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: Beginning?
George gets one hand onto the stone.
Together they haul him free.
The instant his feet leave the circle—
The floor returns.
Solid stone.
George stares at it.
ST. GEORGE: If we find him—
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: We ask questions first.
ST. GEORGE: I was going to suggest that.
Edric gives him a look.
They continue.
At last—
They reach the highest occupied chamber.
A heavy wooden door stands partially open.
Edric pushes it wider.
Dust drifts through the lantern light.
This room is different.
Larger.
Circular.
Myrrden's main study.
Books are stacked across nearly every surface.
Scrolls fill stone alcoves.
Charts of magical ley lines cover one wall.
Several maps of Camelot lie across an enormous desk.
Some contain markings.
Others contain symbols.
One map has dozens of points connected by dark ink.
George moves toward it.
ST. GEORGE: Edric.
Edric joins him.
The lines converge on one location.
Camelot.
More specifically—
The castle.
Edric's expression changes.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: He was studying something.
ST. GEORGE: Or someone.
They separate.
Edric begins checking the desk.
George searches the shelves.
Minutes pass.
Nothing immediately useful.
Then Edric stops.
There is a book partially hidden beneath several loose sheets of parchment.
Dark leather.
No title.
He lifts it.
Blows the dust from its cover.
Opens it.
Pages of dense handwriting.
Dates.
Magical observations.
Drawings.
Experiments.
Edric turns toward the end.
The final written page.
His eyes narrow.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: George.
George comes beside him.
Edric begins reading aloud.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: “The change is no longer theoretical.”
George looks at the page.
Edric continues.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: “I have watched Merlin for seven days. His magical signature remains recognizably his own, yet something else moves beneath it.”
George's expression becomes more serious.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: “Not possession as I understand possession. Not corruption in any familiar sense.”
Edric pauses.
The next sentence is underlined twice.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: “There are moments when he appears entirely himself.”
George says nothing.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: “And moments when I am no longer certain he is present at all.”
Silence.
Edric continues.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: “The fissures may not be breaches created from our side. I now believe they are intrusions.”
George looks toward him.
ST. GEORGE: Intrusions from where?
Edric looks back down.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: “Something is attempting to enter the realms.”
The next lines become increasingly hurried.
The handwriting less controlled.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: “Merlin does not understand what he touched.”
A beat.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: “But I fear whatever lies beyond the fissures understands him.”
George's eyes move to the bottom of the page.
There is one final sentence.
Written darker than the rest.
As though Myrrden pressed the quill almost through the parchment.
Edric reads it.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: “Tomorrow, I confront him.”
Silence.
Neither knight speaks.
They both understand.
This was Myrrden's final entry.
George looks around the abandoned study.
ST. GEORGE: And afterward—
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: He disappeared.
George slowly turns toward him.
ST. GEORGE: Richard needs to see this.
Edric closes the journal.
Then—
A low vibration passes through the chamber.
Both men freeze.
The lantern flame bends sideways.
Books tremble on their shelves.
A deep circular shadow appears against the far wall.
Edric draws his sword.
George does the same.
The shadow expands.
Not like the Wizard's doorway.
Not like anything they used to enter.
This portal is black at its center.
Its edges shimmer with distorted fragments of light.
The air around it seems to pull toward nothing.
A figure steps through.
Merlin.
Edric's sword lowers slightly.
Not because he feels safer.
Because something is wrong.
The wizard's face is rigid.
His jaw clenched.
His expression filled with a cold, unnatural anger.
And his eyes—
Coal black.
No iris.
No white.
Nothing.
George immediately shifts into a defensive stance.
Edric keeps the journal behind him.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: Merlin.
No response.
The wizard stares at them.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: What are you doing here?
Nothing.
ST. GEORGE: Wizard.
Merlin's hand tightens around his staff.
Edric realizes it first.
SIR EDRIC ROSEGUARD: George—
Merlin raises the staff.
Speaks a single word.
It is not loud.
But the tower reacts as though struck.
The lantern extinguishes.
The walls distort.
Edric gasps.
His sword falls from his hand.
His eyes turn completely white.
George stumbles backward.
His eyes—
White.
Both men attempt to move.
Cannot.
Their bodies begin to distort.
Not physically stretching.
Something worse.
Their outlines become uncertain.
Parts of them seem farther away than others despite standing in the same place.
George forces out a sound.
ST. GEORGE: Edric—
Behind them—
Space tears open.
No light emerges.
No stars.
No landscape.
Nothing.
A rift of pure absence.
The same impossible nothing Myrrden sensed within Merlin's magic.
Edric's boots scrape across the stone.
He is being pulled backward.
George reaches for him.
Their hands almost meet.
Almost.
Then the force doubles.
George is torn from his feet.
He disappears into the rift.
Edric follows an instant later.
The journal falls from his hand.
Then—
The rift closes.
No explosion.
No thunder.
It simply ceases to exist.
Silence.
Merlin remains standing in the middle of Myrrden's study.
His staff still raised.
His coal-black eyes fixed on the empty space where the knights stood.
One second.
Two.
Three.
Then—
Merlin blinks.
His eyes return to normal.
He sways slightly.
Looks around.
Confused.
His breathing changes.
MERLIN: What...?
He studies the room.
The maps.
The books.
The dust.
Recognition slowly enters his expression.
MERLIN: Myrrden?
No answer.
Merlin looks toward the floor.
Sees Edric's fallen sword.
Then George's.
His confusion deepens.
He takes one cautious step.
His foot touches something.
The journal.
Merlin looks down.
Slowly bends.
Picks it up.
He recognizes it immediately.
His expression becomes unreadable.
He opens the cover.
Sees Myrrden's handwriting.
For a long moment—
Merlin simply stares.
Then closes the journal.
He slips it inside his cloak.
Looks once more around the abandoned chamber.
The uncertainty remains.
Perhaps even fear.
Merlin raises his staff.
A circle of golden light forms around him.
He speaks softly.
The light flashes.
Merlin disappears.
The tower is empty again.
The camera remains fixed upon Myrrden's study.
Edric and George's swords lie abandoned on the floor.
Dust slowly settles around them.
Then—
From somewhere far beyond the room—
A sound.
Barely audible.
Like someone trying to breathe from the other side of a wall.
Cut to black.
END INTERLUDE 005 — “INTO THE DARK”
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