03-25-2019, 10:45 AM
Detroit – A FEW MONTHS AGO
Robert Marshall had led an interesting life, the kind of life that would lend itself to the big screen. From illegal experiments, to a faked death, the man who many knew as Dante had never led a quiet existence, and sometimes that was his biggest regret. There was no doubt that his on screen persona was one that was to be feared, and to cower from, but behind closed doors, Robert was a far different person, one that wished wrestling had never become part of his life. He was beginning to crave a life away from the business, a life without all the difficulties, and after events of yesterday, it seemed like his mind was made up.
Drake Hemingway and Loretta, two people who had promised him a purpose were now gone, the Druids had been destroy, and Dante now stood alone, looking over a landscape in EMERGE that looked like it was about to explode. And more than that, something that nobody knew but himself, and the Doctor currently sat in front of him, his body was breaking down piece by piece. He found himself struggling to even get out of bed in the mornings such was the pain wracking through his body. At 42, he felt more like 60, and wasn’t sure how long he could go on. He’d gotten by on a cocktail of pain killers, but they were starting to lose their effect. The look on the Doctors face just confirmed Robert’s fears, he was finished… and he knew it.
Robert: So, how bad is it?
Doctor: Truthfully, I’m having difficulty understanding how you are still standing. The ligaments in your knees are all but destroyed, the arthritis in your hands is getting worse to the point that over the next twelve months or so I think you are going to have difficult gripping objects with your right hand, your left not a great deal better. Robert, I wish I could give you good news, but I’m afraid there isn’t any… except for like I said, you’re still able to stand… just about
Robert sighs, a deep breath brought on by his suspicions being confirmed.
Doctor: One place you certainly shouldn’t be is in a wrestling ring. Not only are you a danger to yourself, you are a danger to others as well.
Robert: And there’s nothing you can do?
The Doctor holds out his hands, shaking his head.
Doctor: If you quit now, we might be able to do something with the knees, we can give you medication to lessen the effects of the arthritis… but the fact of the matter is this isn’t just going to go away, and it’s only going to get much, much worse if you don’t get out of the business.
Robert: So, worst case scenario?
Doctor: You’ll be a wheelchair for the rest of your life, probably need help, a carer maybe.
Robert: So in short, I’m fucked.
The doctor pauses for a moment, but nods his head
Doctor: Well, I wouldn’t put it so colorfully, but yes… it is over Robert, there’s no way you should compete ever again.
Robert rubs his eyes, not believing it even though he knew deep down that this would be the case. He’d had so many drugs pumped into his system over the years, and endured true pain that most people in EMERGE would never understand, it was surprising he was still alive, never mind still somehow managing to drag himself to the ring. More than anything though he felt cheated, cheated because there was still so much he felt he had to do, at the top of his list avenging his brothers, by taking down Tombstone. Twenty years ago, it would already be done, whether it had been in the ring, or in a parking lot, they would have paid their due. Nowadays though the mind was still willing, but as had been categorically confirmed by the Doctor, the body most certainly was not. He knew that he couldn’t take down Eli and Sawyer without Sundown and Minerva getting involved… he certainly couldn’t do it alone.
Doctor: Of course, I am legally obliged to inform EMERGE of your issues. I cannot medically clear you to compete knowing what I do.
Robert: Oh come on Doc, I need more time.
Doctor: Robert, I could be struck off for withholding this kind of information.
Robert: I know, I’m asking for a favor here.
Doctor: It’s more than my job is worth… I couldn’t with good conscience allow it.
Again, twenty years ago, Robert would have dragged the Doctor out of his chair and pinned him against the wall, and made all kind of threats. But this was different, although Tombstone were there in his thoughts, and although every thought in his mind was one of revenge, he knew that Doctor was right. And the moment EMERGE got this information, Robert, or indeed Dante would have his contract terminated. Robert leans back in his chair, the Doctor looking at him apologetically
Doctor: I am sorry Robert, but I have to do this. I’ve got no choice.
Robert: Yeah, I know… its ok.
Robert slowly gets to his feet, his body straining to do even that. In truth, he couldn’t remember when he started to rely on the pain killers, but it is abundantly obvious that he does.
Doctor: Make an appointment to see me over the next two weeks or so and we’ll sort out a plan of action… it may be the end of your career Robert, but we can manage this ok?
Robert nods, but he isn’t really listening, and heads for the door. For all this pain, and misery over his career being cut short, that wasn’t really the problem. The problem was he would never be able to avenge his brothers, and he knew that would eat away at him forever.
Detroit - ONE MONTH LATER
Over the course of time, fate played its hand and good fortune fell into Robert’s lap, if not the Doctors. The Doctor who had been working with him had ironically two days after their meeting keeled over and died of an heart attack, apparently taking Dante’s prognosis with him. Many weren’t aware, but Dante’s brother was a hacker extraordinaire, and had little trouble getting into the medical database and changing the information that had damned Robert’s career, and it seemed like Robert had been given a second chance.
In truth it didn’t change a thing… Robert still needed a weapon to help him, and a stronger concoction of drugs to get him through. That was where Samuel came in, a dealer in Detroit of the highest order who could get anything for a price… a price that Robert was willing to pay. They had agreed to meet at an old warehouse, which wasn’t out of the norm for Samuel. He never took chances, not ever, and it was the main reason for his success. He’d not been to Jail once, and he was determined to keep it that way.
Robert: So, this is much stronger yeah?
Samuel: You’re gonna fly brother… seriously, this is Grade A
Robert: And still untraceable.
Samuel: Damn straight homes… but just to be certain, make sure you got some piss on standby yeah?
Laymon may have been on the shelf right now, but he still had his uses, which included providing his urine.
Robert: OK good… this will be the last batch, another couple of months and I’ll be done.
Samuel holds up his hands.
Samuel: None of my business Bob, you keep paying and I’ll keep providing. Just if you get caught…
Robert: No names… don’t worry, I know how it goes.
Samuel: Sweet
Suddenly, Robert feels a sharp stabbing pain in his chest, which goes away almost as quickly. It is then followed by another, this time much stronger, that actually causes him to place a hand against the wall to steady himself.
Samuel: You ok man, you don’t look so good?
Robert takes a few breaths, willing the pain away, his hand pressing against his chest. Slowly, like a wave, the pain starts to subside, and he’s able to stand unaided.
Samuel: What was that? You sure you want to be taking stuff right now?
Robert looks up at him, his eyes narrowed
Robert: I’ve got no choice, you wouldn’t understand, it’s about honor.
Samuel: Whoa, back off there… Samuel’s only concerned for one of his best clients
Robert: Yeah, well don’t be…
Samuel shrugs his shoulders and packs up his stuff, throwing his back over his shoulder
Samuel: Look Bob, let me give you some advice?
Robert: This should be good
Samuel: Just, know when to give up yeah? Know when it’s just not in you anymore. Or else it’s going to be too late you know, just my opinion.
Robert: Yeah, just your opinion, and I’d appreciate it if you keep them to yourself from now on.
Samuel shakes his head, and heads to the warehouse door.
Samuel: Your funeral Bobby boy… see you around.
He heads out the warehouse, and Robert immediately takes a pill from the strip, and places it in his mouth, washing it down with water. Almost immediately, he starts to feel relief spreading over him, and with a nod, he heads to the door.
Toronto – February 4th 2019
Blood pours from Dante’s mouth, and he bends down and picks up the hammer, staring at Mordecai who looks dazed. He leaps in the air and brings Mordecai down onto the hammer resting on his knee. Dante then looks down at Mordecai who isn’t moving, realizing that he has the match won. He drops, and makes the cover, and Dante gets up in shook almost falling out the ring. As Mordecai starts to stand, Dante picks up the steel chair, waiting. He then runs in, but Mordecai counters with a huge forearm, the chair dropped. Mordecai then picks it up and drives it into Dante’s stomach, blood splattering from out his mouth and onto the ring. Mordecai then brings the chair down on the back of Dante’s head, everything going dark for the Assassin as he loses consciousness.
THIRTY SECONDS LATER
Dante pulls himself up on the ropes, aware of only Mordecais music, and then a voice piercing through it. Dante looks up towards the top of the ramp and see’s Tombstone making their way down. In truth, Dante’s body is numb, he is barely able to stand, but as Tombstone enters the ring, Mordecai inexplicitly stands between them and him. Dante still believes they will come, but Minerva tells them to leave, Mordecai having saved Dante from inevitable destruction. Dante leans back against the ropes, as Tombstone leave the arena, and then Mordecai leaves the ring, a smile forming on the Assassins face. He’d searched without success, but it looked like he had found himself his weapon.
Toronto – PRESENT DAY
To say he was surprised to get the call was an understatement. Now, with Dante in his office, it was even more difficult to believe, but Drew was doing his best not to be intimidated.
Drew: So, what can I do for you Dante?
The monster smiles, which unnerves Drew even more.
Robert: I’m not here as Dante Drew, not today
Drew: Oh?
Robert: No, I’m here to tender my resignation… effective immediately after Invasion.
Drew wasn’t expecting this at all, and takes a few moments before replying
Drew: Can I ask why?
Robert: I’ve lived a lie for so long Drew. I can’t do this anymore, my body is broken, and it’s only a matter of time before it gives up on me for good. I owe it to my brothers to take it to Tombstone and at least try, and on the Symphony of the Sea, I’ll give everything I have left to do that. But then I have to walk away, if indeed I am still able.
Drew: That bad?
Robert: I’m a mess Drew, I have a list of ailments as long as my arm. But I cannot walk away without trying one last time.
Drew sighs, he’s already lost a couple from the roster recently, Dante was exactly the kind of high profile name he needed. But he could tell that there was no changing Robert’s mind, and he got the feeling that Robert had been given no choice.
Drew: OK Robert, you’ve got it… the Elimination Chamber is quite the way to go out.
Robert: Hopefully not feet first
Drew: Knowing you, I doubt that.
Usually, Robert would agree, but this time he wasn’t so sure. All he knew was that he’d give it everything he’d got… one last time.
THE ASSASSIN SPEAKS
Predictably, we open in a darkened room, a single candle flickering brightly next to Dante, who sits in a single chair, resting his arms on the rests. He greets the camera with a tilted head, before his voice starts to carry through the room, making even more ominous if that is possible.
Dante: Fifteen years. Fifteen years I have put my body to its limits for this business. And on the 11th of June 2019, on board the cruise ship the Symphony of the Sea, my journey will come to an end.
He pauses for a moment, as if saying the words has made it a little more real.
Dante: It’s been, eventful… and I’m sure there will be many people that will be glad to see the back of me, and I assure you, the feeling is more than mutual. But before I have my moment, I have two more matches. Or as I prefer to call it, two more chances. To end the ‘fake’ monsters that are Tombstone.
He seems to almost growl the name, and if we could see his face clearly, you would know it was certainly said with a sneer.
Dante: Fake, because for all their threats, for all their bluster. Through sneak attacks, chair shots and much more, I’m still standing. Still here, with only one goal in mind, to avenge my brothers. A ‘true’ Monster cannot be destroyed Tombstone. A ‘true’ Monster is just like it is in the movies, they ALWAYS get back up and bring it again. You are nothing more than children, playing a game that you simply cannot win. You know how many times people have tried to ‘end’ me Tombstone and failed? I’m intrigued, just what makes you ‘good old boys’ any different to true LEGENDS that have fallen by my hand? I’ll tell you what’s different, they were legends, and you pair never will be. It’s seems to me that the only one in your group that has any balls is Minerva, the rest of you are about as ominous, or indeed monstrous as those leather wearing punks the Heartbreakers, another ‘team’ where the bitch wears the balls.
Dante turns his head to the candle, watching the flame dance, its shadow casting on the walls.
Dante: But you know what makes this really interesting Tombstone, is the fact that I don’t have to hold back any longer. I don’t have to worry about my body breaking, or receiving a suspension for going too far. All I have to do is concentrate on snapping you two bastards in half for what you did to Malakai and Jacob, and make you pay for everything you have done since. I am finally allowed to be the monster that terrorized MCW, UCWF, and FWA and almost killed Jason King in ULW.
And truthfully Tombstone, I don’t care how you try to cover it up, which you will… you have NEVER faced someone like me when shorn of any responsibility. And imagine this, even if Mordecai and I don’t get it done this time, we still have a Chamber, with NO rules with which to finish the job. Because I can tell you right now, neither of us have any designs on the EMERGE tag championships, all we need, is to hurt whoever gets in our way, and especially the pair of you. But what if I fail? How could I still walk away?
He leans forwards, and for the first time we clearly see his face, the mask left off, and the scars of a lifetime of competition visible, in which he has taken part in some of the most brutal matches in the industry. His eyes are narrowed, but he doesn’t seem angry, only determined, determined to finish this on his terms.
Dante: The answer to that is quite simple, because if I do fail, for you to have won, you will have beaten me to an inch of my life, and pinned my shoulders to the mat, but even then it won’t be over. I can’t speak for Mordecai, and I’m sure Lindsay will have plenty to say on his behalf, but if I am still conscious, and still able to, I will still be fighting and no referee is going to stop me. If we get to that Chamber, you are going to have to be the monsters you claim, and go further than you ever thought possible. You really think you can do that boys? You really believe that you can go to the depths of hell and come out the other side? Because that’s where you are headed.
He steeples his fingers so the tip rests on his nose.
Dante: Eli, Sawyer… there are no guarantees of victory, I know that. But I can guarantee that on EMERGE, and at Invasion, the pair of you are going to be put through suffering you never thought imaginable. You believe that you have suffered, you think you have experienced horror, but PG13 doesn’t cut in the Assassins world. In Toronto, and then in the middle of the Caribbean Sea, Mordecai and I will either break you, or we will make you, but to be made you are both going to have to put on the performance of a lifetime, and show me something that’s been missing thus far. Show me Eli… show me Sawyer… show me how you protect your own I demand it. Come into my darkness, and let it embrace you. And then exit from the horror purged…or pure.
Dante lifts his hand, and holds it above the candle, before closing his fist around the flame, casting the room into darkness as the scene fades.
Robert Marshall had led an interesting life, the kind of life that would lend itself to the big screen. From illegal experiments, to a faked death, the man who many knew as Dante had never led a quiet existence, and sometimes that was his biggest regret. There was no doubt that his on screen persona was one that was to be feared, and to cower from, but behind closed doors, Robert was a far different person, one that wished wrestling had never become part of his life. He was beginning to crave a life away from the business, a life without all the difficulties, and after events of yesterday, it seemed like his mind was made up.
Drake Hemingway and Loretta, two people who had promised him a purpose were now gone, the Druids had been destroy, and Dante now stood alone, looking over a landscape in EMERGE that looked like it was about to explode. And more than that, something that nobody knew but himself, and the Doctor currently sat in front of him, his body was breaking down piece by piece. He found himself struggling to even get out of bed in the mornings such was the pain wracking through his body. At 42, he felt more like 60, and wasn’t sure how long he could go on. He’d gotten by on a cocktail of pain killers, but they were starting to lose their effect. The look on the Doctors face just confirmed Robert’s fears, he was finished… and he knew it.
Robert: So, how bad is it?
Doctor: Truthfully, I’m having difficulty understanding how you are still standing. The ligaments in your knees are all but destroyed, the arthritis in your hands is getting worse to the point that over the next twelve months or so I think you are going to have difficult gripping objects with your right hand, your left not a great deal better. Robert, I wish I could give you good news, but I’m afraid there isn’t any… except for like I said, you’re still able to stand… just about
Robert sighs, a deep breath brought on by his suspicions being confirmed.
Doctor: One place you certainly shouldn’t be is in a wrestling ring. Not only are you a danger to yourself, you are a danger to others as well.
Robert: And there’s nothing you can do?
The Doctor holds out his hands, shaking his head.
Doctor: If you quit now, we might be able to do something with the knees, we can give you medication to lessen the effects of the arthritis… but the fact of the matter is this isn’t just going to go away, and it’s only going to get much, much worse if you don’t get out of the business.
Robert: So, worst case scenario?
Doctor: You’ll be a wheelchair for the rest of your life, probably need help, a carer maybe.
Robert: So in short, I’m fucked.
The doctor pauses for a moment, but nods his head
Doctor: Well, I wouldn’t put it so colorfully, but yes… it is over Robert, there’s no way you should compete ever again.
Robert rubs his eyes, not believing it even though he knew deep down that this would be the case. He’d had so many drugs pumped into his system over the years, and endured true pain that most people in EMERGE would never understand, it was surprising he was still alive, never mind still somehow managing to drag himself to the ring. More than anything though he felt cheated, cheated because there was still so much he felt he had to do, at the top of his list avenging his brothers, by taking down Tombstone. Twenty years ago, it would already be done, whether it had been in the ring, or in a parking lot, they would have paid their due. Nowadays though the mind was still willing, but as had been categorically confirmed by the Doctor, the body most certainly was not. He knew that he couldn’t take down Eli and Sawyer without Sundown and Minerva getting involved… he certainly couldn’t do it alone.
Doctor: Of course, I am legally obliged to inform EMERGE of your issues. I cannot medically clear you to compete knowing what I do.
Robert: Oh come on Doc, I need more time.
Doctor: Robert, I could be struck off for withholding this kind of information.
Robert: I know, I’m asking for a favor here.
Doctor: It’s more than my job is worth… I couldn’t with good conscience allow it.
Again, twenty years ago, Robert would have dragged the Doctor out of his chair and pinned him against the wall, and made all kind of threats. But this was different, although Tombstone were there in his thoughts, and although every thought in his mind was one of revenge, he knew that Doctor was right. And the moment EMERGE got this information, Robert, or indeed Dante would have his contract terminated. Robert leans back in his chair, the Doctor looking at him apologetically
Doctor: I am sorry Robert, but I have to do this. I’ve got no choice.
Robert: Yeah, I know… its ok.
Robert slowly gets to his feet, his body straining to do even that. In truth, he couldn’t remember when he started to rely on the pain killers, but it is abundantly obvious that he does.
Doctor: Make an appointment to see me over the next two weeks or so and we’ll sort out a plan of action… it may be the end of your career Robert, but we can manage this ok?
Robert nods, but he isn’t really listening, and heads for the door. For all this pain, and misery over his career being cut short, that wasn’t really the problem. The problem was he would never be able to avenge his brothers, and he knew that would eat away at him forever.
Detroit - ONE MONTH LATER
Over the course of time, fate played its hand and good fortune fell into Robert’s lap, if not the Doctors. The Doctor who had been working with him had ironically two days after their meeting keeled over and died of an heart attack, apparently taking Dante’s prognosis with him. Many weren’t aware, but Dante’s brother was a hacker extraordinaire, and had little trouble getting into the medical database and changing the information that had damned Robert’s career, and it seemed like Robert had been given a second chance.
In truth it didn’t change a thing… Robert still needed a weapon to help him, and a stronger concoction of drugs to get him through. That was where Samuel came in, a dealer in Detroit of the highest order who could get anything for a price… a price that Robert was willing to pay. They had agreed to meet at an old warehouse, which wasn’t out of the norm for Samuel. He never took chances, not ever, and it was the main reason for his success. He’d not been to Jail once, and he was determined to keep it that way.
Robert: So, this is much stronger yeah?
Samuel: You’re gonna fly brother… seriously, this is Grade A
Robert: And still untraceable.
Samuel: Damn straight homes… but just to be certain, make sure you got some piss on standby yeah?
Laymon may have been on the shelf right now, but he still had his uses, which included providing his urine.
Robert: OK good… this will be the last batch, another couple of months and I’ll be done.
Samuel holds up his hands.
Samuel: None of my business Bob, you keep paying and I’ll keep providing. Just if you get caught…
Robert: No names… don’t worry, I know how it goes.
Samuel: Sweet
Suddenly, Robert feels a sharp stabbing pain in his chest, which goes away almost as quickly. It is then followed by another, this time much stronger, that actually causes him to place a hand against the wall to steady himself.
Samuel: You ok man, you don’t look so good?
Robert takes a few breaths, willing the pain away, his hand pressing against his chest. Slowly, like a wave, the pain starts to subside, and he’s able to stand unaided.
Samuel: What was that? You sure you want to be taking stuff right now?
Robert looks up at him, his eyes narrowed
Robert: I’ve got no choice, you wouldn’t understand, it’s about honor.
Samuel: Whoa, back off there… Samuel’s only concerned for one of his best clients
Robert: Yeah, well don’t be…
Samuel shrugs his shoulders and packs up his stuff, throwing his back over his shoulder
Samuel: Look Bob, let me give you some advice?
Robert: This should be good
Samuel: Just, know when to give up yeah? Know when it’s just not in you anymore. Or else it’s going to be too late you know, just my opinion.
Robert: Yeah, just your opinion, and I’d appreciate it if you keep them to yourself from now on.
Samuel shakes his head, and heads to the warehouse door.
Samuel: Your funeral Bobby boy… see you around.
He heads out the warehouse, and Robert immediately takes a pill from the strip, and places it in his mouth, washing it down with water. Almost immediately, he starts to feel relief spreading over him, and with a nod, he heads to the door.
Toronto – February 4th 2019
Blood pours from Dante’s mouth, and he bends down and picks up the hammer, staring at Mordecai who looks dazed. He leaps in the air and brings Mordecai down onto the hammer resting on his knee. Dante then looks down at Mordecai who isn’t moving, realizing that he has the match won. He drops, and makes the cover, and Dante gets up in shook almost falling out the ring. As Mordecai starts to stand, Dante picks up the steel chair, waiting. He then runs in, but Mordecai counters with a huge forearm, the chair dropped. Mordecai then picks it up and drives it into Dante’s stomach, blood splattering from out his mouth and onto the ring. Mordecai then brings the chair down on the back of Dante’s head, everything going dark for the Assassin as he loses consciousness.
THIRTY SECONDS LATER
Dante pulls himself up on the ropes, aware of only Mordecais music, and then a voice piercing through it. Dante looks up towards the top of the ramp and see’s Tombstone making their way down. In truth, Dante’s body is numb, he is barely able to stand, but as Tombstone enters the ring, Mordecai inexplicitly stands between them and him. Dante still believes they will come, but Minerva tells them to leave, Mordecai having saved Dante from inevitable destruction. Dante leans back against the ropes, as Tombstone leave the arena, and then Mordecai leaves the ring, a smile forming on the Assassins face. He’d searched without success, but it looked like he had found himself his weapon.
Toronto – PRESENT DAY
To say he was surprised to get the call was an understatement. Now, with Dante in his office, it was even more difficult to believe, but Drew was doing his best not to be intimidated.
Drew: So, what can I do for you Dante?
The monster smiles, which unnerves Drew even more.
Robert: I’m not here as Dante Drew, not today
Drew: Oh?
Robert: No, I’m here to tender my resignation… effective immediately after Invasion.
Drew wasn’t expecting this at all, and takes a few moments before replying
Drew: Can I ask why?
Robert: I’ve lived a lie for so long Drew. I can’t do this anymore, my body is broken, and it’s only a matter of time before it gives up on me for good. I owe it to my brothers to take it to Tombstone and at least try, and on the Symphony of the Sea, I’ll give everything I have left to do that. But then I have to walk away, if indeed I am still able.
Drew: That bad?
Robert: I’m a mess Drew, I have a list of ailments as long as my arm. But I cannot walk away without trying one last time.
Drew sighs, he’s already lost a couple from the roster recently, Dante was exactly the kind of high profile name he needed. But he could tell that there was no changing Robert’s mind, and he got the feeling that Robert had been given no choice.
Drew: OK Robert, you’ve got it… the Elimination Chamber is quite the way to go out.
Robert: Hopefully not feet first
Drew: Knowing you, I doubt that.
Usually, Robert would agree, but this time he wasn’t so sure. All he knew was that he’d give it everything he’d got… one last time.
THE ASSASSIN SPEAKS
Predictably, we open in a darkened room, a single candle flickering brightly next to Dante, who sits in a single chair, resting his arms on the rests. He greets the camera with a tilted head, before his voice starts to carry through the room, making even more ominous if that is possible.
Dante: Fifteen years. Fifteen years I have put my body to its limits for this business. And on the 11th of June 2019, on board the cruise ship the Symphony of the Sea, my journey will come to an end.
He pauses for a moment, as if saying the words has made it a little more real.
Dante: It’s been, eventful… and I’m sure there will be many people that will be glad to see the back of me, and I assure you, the feeling is more than mutual. But before I have my moment, I have two more matches. Or as I prefer to call it, two more chances. To end the ‘fake’ monsters that are Tombstone.
He seems to almost growl the name, and if we could see his face clearly, you would know it was certainly said with a sneer.
Dante: Fake, because for all their threats, for all their bluster. Through sneak attacks, chair shots and much more, I’m still standing. Still here, with only one goal in mind, to avenge my brothers. A ‘true’ Monster cannot be destroyed Tombstone. A ‘true’ Monster is just like it is in the movies, they ALWAYS get back up and bring it again. You are nothing more than children, playing a game that you simply cannot win. You know how many times people have tried to ‘end’ me Tombstone and failed? I’m intrigued, just what makes you ‘good old boys’ any different to true LEGENDS that have fallen by my hand? I’ll tell you what’s different, they were legends, and you pair never will be. It’s seems to me that the only one in your group that has any balls is Minerva, the rest of you are about as ominous, or indeed monstrous as those leather wearing punks the Heartbreakers, another ‘team’ where the bitch wears the balls.
Dante turns his head to the candle, watching the flame dance, its shadow casting on the walls.
Dante: But you know what makes this really interesting Tombstone, is the fact that I don’t have to hold back any longer. I don’t have to worry about my body breaking, or receiving a suspension for going too far. All I have to do is concentrate on snapping you two bastards in half for what you did to Malakai and Jacob, and make you pay for everything you have done since. I am finally allowed to be the monster that terrorized MCW, UCWF, and FWA and almost killed Jason King in ULW.
And truthfully Tombstone, I don’t care how you try to cover it up, which you will… you have NEVER faced someone like me when shorn of any responsibility. And imagine this, even if Mordecai and I don’t get it done this time, we still have a Chamber, with NO rules with which to finish the job. Because I can tell you right now, neither of us have any designs on the EMERGE tag championships, all we need, is to hurt whoever gets in our way, and especially the pair of you. But what if I fail? How could I still walk away?
He leans forwards, and for the first time we clearly see his face, the mask left off, and the scars of a lifetime of competition visible, in which he has taken part in some of the most brutal matches in the industry. His eyes are narrowed, but he doesn’t seem angry, only determined, determined to finish this on his terms.
Dante: The answer to that is quite simple, because if I do fail, for you to have won, you will have beaten me to an inch of my life, and pinned my shoulders to the mat, but even then it won’t be over. I can’t speak for Mordecai, and I’m sure Lindsay will have plenty to say on his behalf, but if I am still conscious, and still able to, I will still be fighting and no referee is going to stop me. If we get to that Chamber, you are going to have to be the monsters you claim, and go further than you ever thought possible. You really think you can do that boys? You really believe that you can go to the depths of hell and come out the other side? Because that’s where you are headed.
He steeples his fingers so the tip rests on his nose.
Dante: Eli, Sawyer… there are no guarantees of victory, I know that. But I can guarantee that on EMERGE, and at Invasion, the pair of you are going to be put through suffering you never thought imaginable. You believe that you have suffered, you think you have experienced horror, but PG13 doesn’t cut in the Assassins world. In Toronto, and then in the middle of the Caribbean Sea, Mordecai and I will either break you, or we will make you, but to be made you are both going to have to put on the performance of a lifetime, and show me something that’s been missing thus far. Show me Eli… show me Sawyer… show me how you protect your own I demand it. Come into my darkness, and let it embrace you. And then exit from the horror purged…or pure.
Dante lifts his hand, and holds it above the candle, before closing his fist around the flame, casting the room into darkness as the scene fades.