E-Pro Television Episode #8

The camera opens on Tom Matheny, standing backstage with microphone in hand. Matheny stands in front of an EXODUS Pro banner, eyes staring into the camera.

Tom Matheny: Last Tuesday night in Las Vegas, Dan Stein revealed that he was putting SHOOT Project through an elaborate ruse. As you might recall, last show Stein walked the halls of the RIMAC arena without stating his purpose. Knowing the history of the man, you’d expect him to wipe his hands of the situation. However...

The camera pans back, revealing Stein and Molly, his Assistant, standing with a smile Stein wears an EXODUS Pro t-shirt and blue jeans, Molly wears a form fitting business skirt and blouse. Stein has a smile on his face as he looks to the camera.

Tom Matheny: However, as you can see, Dan Stein has returned to EXODUS.

Matheny turns to Stein with an aggressive yet perplexed look.

Tom Matheny: The question is, Mr. Stein, WHY have you returned to EXODUS after saying you weren’t going to leave SHOOT Project?

Dan rubs his hands together quickly, opening his body to both Matheny and the camera.

Dan Stein: Hey, Tim, pleasure to be here, good tidings and all that.

Tom Matheny: Tom.

Dan Stein: No, I’m Dan. Anyways, Tim, thanks for the recap for the fans, but I think they can remember two weeks ago, they seem like smart enough people. Which, actually, is the reason why I’m back here in sunny San Diego.

Stein pauses, allowing the fans to cheer for their home city. Stein swats at Molly’s arm, playfully, gesturing at the positive feedback.

Dan Stein: See, when I came out to the coast last week, it was just a part of the ruse - just an act to lead the SHOOT Project fans into thinking I was ditching them, like they deserved. All I hear from those plebs is how my party-going and modeling has lead me astray from what made me a good ol’ fan favorite. But when I came to EXODUS...

Stein looks around the hallway, gesturing with his hand.

Dan Stein: Greener pastures, as they say.

Dan looks at Molly, then Matheny. Tom looks at the camera briefly.

Tom Matheny: Now wait just a minute, are you trying to tell me that you’re going to be pulling double duty in EXODUS Pro AND SHOOT Project?

Dan Stein: Whoa, whoa. Hold your britches, Mathews.

Tom Matheny: Matheny.

Dan Stein: Stein. I’m not signed to any contract in EXODUS Pro, not now, not tomorrow. I just wanted to come in here, to the home of the people that welcomed Dan Stein, and...thank them. To let them know that Dan Stein isn’t just turning his back on them and going home, but...taking care of some business. And when it comes time for Dan Stein to move on from SHOOT Project, if that ever happens, well...

Stein looks at Tom, but his eyes drift off camera. Tom turns to look where Stein is peering, just in time to see...

Tom Matheny: Jerry Matthews!

The camera pans slightly to the left and standing next to Tom Matheny are the reigning San Diego Bay Champion “The Evangelist” Jerry Matthews and his spiritual liaison Deacon Jeremiah. Matthews is wearing a white suit and black dress shirt and tie, and has the San Diego Bay title belt draped over his left shoulder. Jeremiah is wearing a black suit, and is wearing his trademark sunglasses.

Jerry Matthews: Mr. Matheny, first off, you should always remember to address me as Reverend. I didn’t spend so many years in seminary to not be recognized by my proper title.

Tom Matheny: So, sorry, Reverend.

Jerry Matthews: As you should be. Now, Mr. Stein, I want to be one of the first to welcome you into EXODUS Pro. It seems that you’ve only had the displeasure of being seen with this incompetent heathen.

Stein turns to Matheny, looking him up and down. A soft ‘eh...’ slips from his lips.Tom Matheny shrugs off the remark.

Tom Matheny: Reverend, I’m sure that this isn’t the reaction that many of the EXODUS fans expected you to have towards a superstar with the reputation of Dan Stein coming into the company. Are you truly sincere in throwing out the welcome mat?

Jerry Matthews: Of course, I am, Mr. Matheny. Anytime this company gets a star the caliber of Mr. Stein, it’s a great thing. But, it isn’t a great thing because of how talented he is, but because of his aforementioned reputation.

Tom Matheny: Reverend, what are you getting at?

Jerry Matthews: It’s very simple. Mr. Stein, you are an admitted model and party host. No doubt, your parties serve as nothing more than conduits for the sinful conduct that will eventually doom humanity to an eternity bathed in hellfire and brimstone.

Tom Matheny: Reverend, that’s quite the accusation to make. How do you know what happens at a party hosted by Dan Stein?

Jerry Matthews: The man prides himself on partying and how many women he can sleep with. Who knows how many times he slept with the little whore that he employs.

Molly’s cheeks begin to turn beet red at the pastor’s insult. Stein holds up his index finger, signalling ‘just that once’.

Jerry Matthews: Since you’ve decided to return to San Diego tonight, I am here to issue you an ultimatum. I’m issuing you a challenge. I’m going to give you two weeks time to prepare for a match with me. Over that time, you must renounce the abhorrent ways of your past, and take up the Way of the Cross and name Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.

Stein gestures at himself, expressing a confused look as he looks around.

Jerry Matthews: You are running the risk of sharing the same fate as Ryan Kidd and Kameron Stone already shared tonight. Mr. Stein, please make the right decision. Otherwise, I will take great pleasure in making you yet another example of what happens when you directly defy the Most High God. The Word of the Lord, Thanks Be to God.

With that, the Southern Baptist crosses himself and he and Jeremiah walk off screen. Stein and Molly watch Jerry walk away before turning to Matheny.

Dan Stein: And I thought I was an a(BLEEP)e. Somewhere in that incoherent rambling I think the dear Reverend issued a challenge to me or something, right, Molly?

Stein turns to his red-headed assistant, who nods quietly, politely.

Dan Stein: I don’t have anything going on in SHOOT Project because of the Master of the Mat tournament, right, Molly?

Again, Molly nods.

Dan Stein: But, I’m not contracted to work in EXODUS yet, am I? No health insurance, money’s not worked out, none of all that?

Molly shakes her head, then lowers her eyes. Stein looks at the camera, then to Tom.

Dan Stein: Hm. Well, I guess I’ll see Mr. Matthews in two weeks, then. Give him an answer to his challenge. If I can fit it into my busy schedule, of course. See you in two weeks, Tom.

Stein extends out an elbow for Molly to wrap her hand around. Tom moves to clarify his name, but realizes Stein actually said it correctly. Tom exhales as he watches Dan Stein and Molly pass in front of him.

Tom Matheny: Well, folks, the San Diego Bay Champion throws down a challenge! Looks like we might not have seen the last of Dan Stein in EXODUS Pro! We'll be right back!

The camera fades to commercial.

We cut backstage, and standing by with Tom Matheny is one of the newest stars to cross over from the THW/EXODUS Pro merger, Adrien Cochrane!

Tom Matheny: Adrien, you’re one of the few that have crossed over so far, but you’ve already made yourself at home, having already seemingly made friends with Jimmy Riley. Care to explain?

The Dropkick King gleefully smiles before responding.

Adrien Cochrane: Well, I actually have some history with Jimmy Riley, as well as Justin Brooks. Jimmy Riley was a guy I crossed paths with a few times back in the WWA. He and I used to compete for second place at Summer Games back when I was still crafting my trade. Justin Brooks on the other hand was something like a mentor to me back in the day. Now, I’ve actually improved a whole lot since my stint back then and started to make a name for myself in PCW and THW so both of them have actually kinda spoken to me and said they want to see how I’ve grown since then and ready to see what Adrien is capable of three years later. So I’m excited that guys that I knew and have respect for happen to be here.

Adrien’s words drift off as someone arrives on the scene, the familiar face to many fans in EXODUS, and not a very pleasant one. It’s the face of LEGION’s second in command, Daisuke Iwakuma. Accompanying him as always is his personal assistant Audrey Lloris and a new addition to his entourage; a tall, shrouded figure, head down, face completely unseen.

Daisuke Iwakuma: I’ve never been one to hold against a man their need to find a friend, but allow me to let you in on a secret, Adrien. The lot you cast yourself with happens to be one I wouldn’t consider the winning side. From what I can gather, you choosing associates like Riley and even types like Justin Brooks will do you no good. It’s a sure way to make enemies, Mr. Cochrane.

Adrien Cochrane: Seems like every company I go to, there’s a man like you preaching words about how “if you associate with Joe Schmoo, you are going to be making enemies you don’t want and you’re not going to get anywhere”. Let’s make one thing perfectly clear, I don’t back down from threats. I didn’t in WWA, I didn’t in PCW, I didn’t in THW, and I’m certainly not going to start now. There’s a saying that “The right to choose your own path is a sacred privilege. Use it. Dwell in possibility.” If you don’t mind, I’m going to choose my own path and make my decisions, and I certainly hope that you can respect that. If not, you have got bigger problems than just Jimmy Riley and Justin Brooks.

Daisuke Iwakuma: Interesting response. You know what? I think I might just have use for you. I’m going to involve you in a little thing I refer to as Project Valentine. Would you like to see it?

Adrien nods, and Daisuke steps aside, leading to the shrouded figure stepping up and, without a word or apparent reason, kicking Adrien in the stomach. The figure twisted, and in the same instant, hitting a diamond cutter. The hood falls off the person’s head, revealing a kabuki mask and long black hair tied up in a pony tail. The figure remains silent, pulling a slightly stunned Adrien off the ground. He attempts to fight back, but a swift knee to the base of his head stops him. Getting behind Adrien, the person applies a pentagram choke, releasing it after the fervent efforts of Adrien to get out of the hold diminish to very feeble attempts. The figure stands up and quietly shuffles next to Daisuke. After a second, Daisuke smirks and reaches to remove the mask from the face of the attacker, only to reveal it as another new face...the face of former THW star Lexie Bonds.

Daisuke Iwakuma: Well, I’d say this whole thing was a success. What do you think, Red Scarab?

Bonds nods at him, and the trio walk off, leaving him to smirk the entire time while the camera shuffles to look down at the fallen Cochrane.

Tom Matheny: While we get some help here for Adrien Cochrane, let's head back to the ring for our next match...Dick, Seth, take it away.

We cut backstage, where Interim Director Darrin Stearns is looking through his papers and his desk, hoping to find something he's looking for. It's clear that Darrin is still adjusting to being new at the job, and it's taking a toll on him already, leaving a bit of frustration on his face.

Darrin Stearns: God, I need to find that contract....

Heather Halliwell is heading back to her locker room after her pre- match stretch. As she passes doors, the office with Jon's name looms before her. Biting on her bottom lip, she stops and knocks tentatively on the door.

Darrin Stearns: Uh...come in! It's kind of a mess, but it's okay.

Heather opens the door and steps in carefully. Her eyes scan the room, and there is indeed a little bit of a paper mess. Her eyes sweep to the desk and the man behind it makes her eyes widen slightly. She knew it wouldn't be Jon, but she hadn't expected his "replacement" to be so... Handsome. She smiles nervously and takes another step into the room.

Heather Halliwell: Um... Hi. You must be Darrin.

Darrin Stearns: Yeah, that's me. Rufus told me I should probably get comfy, I might be here a while.

Darrin sighs, clear concern for his best friend in the world in his eyes while he glanced at Heather. She was pretty, but he had to be professional. Lord only knew how much flack he heard Jonathan get for his relationship with Fiona Rourke, the last thing he needed was to tread those waters. Plus, he had already been privy to the relationship between Dom and Heather.

Darrin Stearns: Have a seat, I'm just trying to organize stuff. I think I lost one of the match contracts for Desperate Times...

Out of habit due to her nature, Heather begins picking up some of the papers that had fallen to the floor in front of the desk. She shuffles through some until one that looks like a potential winner comes up. She puts it on the top of the pile and holds them out to Darrin with a smile.

Heather Halliwell: Maybe this is what you're looking for?

Darrin smiles as he glances at the paper, nodding.

Darrin Stearns: Yeah, this is perfect. Thanks, Heather. Oh, um...you guys cool in your match tonight against Jess and Aiden?

Heather smirks and nods her head.

Heather Halliwell: She's just another bitch who is all bark and no bite. She'll be heading back to hide under her masters legs when I'm done with her tonight. Aidan can go with her.

Darrin Stearns: You're pretty tough, y'know. Jon and I knew a gi--woman as tough as you back in our day. Tempest wasn't one to be taken lightly and you got shades of her all over what you do.

Heather Halliwell: I'm afraid I don't know who you mean, but if you say I'm like her, then she must have been pretty awesome.

Heather flashes him a smile to let him know she was kidding. She pulls a chair around the desk and sits next to him.

Darrin Stearns: Gave me the fight of my life...Jon made quick work of her, he was always pretty good at that.

Darrin sighs as he sits at his desk, glancing at her.

Darrin Stearns: So, um...you didn't bring Dom, did you? I'm gonna have to have him removed if so, Rufus' orders.

At the mention of her boyfriends name, her eyes darken slightly. She shakes her head no.

Heather Haliwell: Dom doesn't need to be here.

There is a slight edge in her tone. Darrin stops, smiling a little, almost unaware he's doing that.

Darrin Stearns: Oh, well...you wanna talk about it?

Heather turns her eyes back to Darrin. She notices his smile and it brings the sparkle back to her eyes. She grins slyly at him.

Heather Halliwell: I wouldn't bore you with those dreary details.

Darrin Stearns: I've been told I'm a most amazing listener. Straight from Jon Collins himself. Here, you can help me break in the office the right way.

Stearns reaches into a drawer in the desk to pull out a flask, before taking a sip and handing it to her.

Darrin Stearns:Try not to tell Rufus I'm boozing up his talent before they work.

Heather beams at him. She she takes the flask their fingers touch ever so slightly. She blushes a light pink and brings the flask to her lips, taking a healthy chug.

Heather Halliwell: I'm a professional drinker, Mr. Stearns. This will be our secret.

She winks at him and holds the flask out to him. He laughs for a second before he stops.

Darrin Stearns: You know, I almost forgot. Jon said you were looking for something different. I think I found you something he left behind.

Stearns goes back into the drawer and produces a CD, handing it to her.

Darrin Stearns: Jon said you'd probably appreciate this. Said it might give you that edge you were digging.

She takes it, a look of curiousity crossing her face. She flips it over a couple times, but there is nothing to give away what it is. She looks back up at Darrin again, taking a moment to take him in while he's standing.

Heather Halliwell: I think I know what this may be about. I'll give it a listen. Thank you.

Darrin Stearns: Now you better run on out there and get yourself ready. I don't want Tiami flying solo out there. He smiles and offers his hand to her to shake. She rises and and accepts his hand, smiling.

Heather Halliwell: Tiami has already had too many partners flake on her. I definitely don't intend to be the next.

She squeezes his hand gently. Darrin grins as he nods, letting go of her hand and sending her on her way.

Heather Halliwell: It was... Quite a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Stearns.

Darrin Stearns: Pleasure was all mine, Ms. Halliwell. Now do me a favor and get some shots in on LEGION. They took something from me that night too.

Heather Halliwell: Consider it done. I owe Jon a lot... LEGION will pay for what they have done.

Darrin grins as he nods, letting go of her hand and sending her on her way.

We come back from break where all of ringside looks different. With wreaths of flowers, carpets all around, and a casket in the center of the ring, the crowd boos as it seems LEGION is paying respect to someone. A gigantic portrait of Jonathan Collins rests in one corner as it’s clear LEGION is doing this to rile up the crowd. Daisuke Iwakuma stands in the ring with Audrey Lloris clutching his arm, looking like fake mourners for the fallen Director, along with the remaining members of LEGION. Going to a little podium/pulpit in the ring, the faction’s new leader, Gryphon, steadies himself as he begins to speak.

Gryphon: Friends, fans, mourners alike, we are brought together tonight to honor the memory of our fallen friend, and my brother, Jonathan Collins. Brother, not in the sense of any blood relation, but a kindred spirit, a man who shares my passion and my dream of what the perfect wrestling environment could be. And as many of you know, sometimes in life, brothers clash, brothers fight. It is difficult, and it was difficult, to find it in my heart to do what I did to Jonathan Collins, but it was for the good of this company, its future, and was the best thing for all of you. With Jonathan and his growing avarice removed EXODUS will no longer be stagnant and stunted but will flourish, with our influence, and prosper like you all never could have imagined. But tonight, we are here to honor the pioneer, the frontrunner, the man who made all of this possible for LEGION: Jonathan Collins.

Gryphon manages a sad smile as he looks out into the crowd and passes the microphone off to Katherine Reynolds.

Katherine Reynolds: Such a somber gathering we have to honor the memory of Jonathan Collins... a man that our respected colleague Gryphon saved EXODUS from. Without him, there would have been no hope for the future, there would have been only stagnation and strife without the order that is necessary to become strong. Thus should we celebrate what has happened, as I am sure that even Jonathan would have wanted us to do, as EXODUS will simply continue on and be stronger without his chains keeping it enslaved.

Once Katherine has finished speaking, she passes the microphone to Kameron Chase, who looks over the crowd for a few long seconds before raising it to his lips.

Kameron Chase: It really is such a shame that it had to come to this. Some people just don’t take warnings seriously. They don’t listen. We tried to tell Jonathan, just like we tried to tell everybody else. When people don’t listen, measures have to be taken. The easiest and most effective way to cure an illness is to remove the poison before it spreads like a cancer, and that’s exactly what happened. It had to be done in order for EXODUS to be saved. Think of Jonathan Collins as a sacrifice if you have to, but in reality he was a like a tumor that had to be removed. As time goes on, you’ll come to realize and understand that LEGION did you all a favor. Once upon a time, Jonathan was a good man with a good mind for the business, but somewhere along the line that all changed, and here we are... It’s a sad situation, but in the end, what had to be done was done.

Kameron smirks as he passes it off to his tag team partner, Daisuke Iwakuma. Daisuke is flanked by both Audrey Lloris and “Project Valentine,” revealed earlier to be former THW star Lexie Bonds.

Daisuke Iwakuma: The world has a way of weeding out the things that aren’t fit to live. It’s the course of nature to eliminate the weak. For years, by simply turning his back on Hal Snyder, Jonathan Collins established himself as a weak individual. Now, after destiny decided Collins was one of the weak, LEGION has done the honor of removing him from the sport of professional wrestling and quite possibly the mortal coil.

Daisuke smirks as he looks up, an almost malevolent grin on his face.

Daisuke Iwakuma: You may not know it now, but you will appreciate the decisions made on your behalf. We are LEGION, and we know what is best for you. Eventually, both you the fans and the locker room will understand.

Kanna holds the microphone and smiles as she looks up at her stoic, masked brother briefly.

Kanna Haroshi: What can truly be said? He put up a valiant fight...a misguided and pathetic fight but valiant nonetheless. Like waves against a rock face his efforts again and again proved futile. We are not the enemy, but the salvation. Bringing forth change for the greater good.

She taps Gouken on the arm as he just stands silent.

Kanna Haroshi: Every single one of us is of a single mindset. We are the future.

Katherine Stryfe is handed the microphone as she smiles at Kanna before turning her attention to the crowd, her face covered by a black veil, she slowly removes it from her line of sight and takes a small breath.

Katherine Stryfe: EXODUS, I know right now you all are going through a variety of emotions right now; some of you are feeling anger over what has happened to the man we are honouring this night. Others of you feel guilt because you never knew the truth of the matter, that we did this for ALL of you! For the betterment of this company, so it could grow into what WE envision it can become. But in order to do that, we had to remove the cancer; we had to kill the one thing that was holding this company back. It was with sadness and a deep understanding of the situation that we struck and buried Jonathan Collins, but it was for each and every last one of you watching at home and here in the arena and for the rest of the roster backstage, but most importantly it was for the children! Think of the children, EXODUS!!

With a laugh and smile she hands the microphone to Magnus. The Loaded Pistol brushes back his hair as a deranged look manifests on his visage. Peering out into the audience, he hisses under his breath before bringing the microphone to his mouth.

Magnus Gunner: Did I fail at Invincible? Did the LEGION fail at Invincible? No, we did not, much to your chagrin. Rather we are having to assume the role of father in EXODUS, and we are forced to guide this place, and correct it when it causes an error. These errors include ones in attitude and judgment. For some reason you mongoloids have the notion that LEGION can only handle it’s business with a gang mentality. LEGION has never backed down from ANY challenge. That is a glaring misconception. Jonathan Collins believed in that misguided notion, yet somehow the pathetic fool never backed down from OUR challenge, and you know what I commend Collins for that. It’s better to be stupid than to be a coward.

The crowd boos as Gunner scowls at them.

Magnus Gunner: Unless your stupidity makes you blind, and blind are the sheep that have come in droves to follow Jonathan Collins to slaughter. You see at first glance, our ambition was to remove Collins from EXODUS, and prevent him from spreading anymore of his poison to the masses, but I’ve come to realize that his virus has spread throughout the locker room. And I see traces of him... none greater than Fiona Rourke.

The crowd cheers Fiona’s name, this of course causes the Loaded Pistol to seethe.

Magnus Gunner: Fiona, you are what remains of Jonathan Collins. His spirit lives on in YOU. All his thoughts, his idiosyncrasies, his motives, his misguided notions and belief systems... YOU embody them. You’ve taken his spot on the throne of deceit, and with your lies you’ve sold the people of EXODUS a false sense of hope. You’re the perfect politician, the perfect con-artist, using the insecurities of THESE fans, and the men and women backstage to feed your ego. But just as we’ve done before, we will do again. Like Moses with his staff, I will take my chair, and I will split the seas! I will show these people miracles... and the greatest miracle will be showing them that YOU... their self-appointed PHARAOH is fake. I’m going to break you Fiona. Heavy is the head that wears the crown.... so I will alleviate the pressure, I will spare you the burden.... I’m going to take your head CLEAN OFF... because WE ARE LEGION... and WE ARE-

Before Gunner can continue his words, the crowd starts to stir as through the PA system comes “Image of the Invisible” by Thrice! The crowd cheers as out first comes Jimmy Riley! Then comes Justin Brooks and Natalie Bateman, followed by EXODUS Pro Champion, Fiona Rourke!

Jimmy Riley: Now...I know you didn’t think this was going to go as easily as you planned, Gryphon. To come out here...to disrespect Jonathan Collins...disrespect EXODUS...disrespect these fans?

They cheer, quite obviously because they were referenced.

Jimmy Riley: That won’t happen. The four of us, the multitudes in the back? We won’t stand for it. What this is right here...this is just the tip of the iceberg. You tried to rip out the heart of EXODUS by taking Jon out. I’ll tell you right now; you failed, because the heart of EXODUS is a lot bigger than one man!

He turns, handing the mic off to The Big, Bad Brooks.

Justin Brooks: You come knocking at my door...don’t be surprised when you get greeted by the monster himself. You wanted to make this personal...and now you've done nothing more but wake up a sleeping giant. I said that I would personally take LEGION apart brick by brick...one man after another until there's nothing more but a unrecognizable pile of limbs that used to be LEGION. My methods aren’t pretty...then again neither is war. But my ways are effective. And Daisuke...when I said I was going to f(BLEEP)k you up. That wasn't a threat...that was a goddamn promise.

And, with that, Justin gives the microphone to Natalie Bateman. A polite nod of thanks is extended to the big man before the Belle turns her attention to those assembled in the ring.

Natalie Bateman: There’s no justification in the world for your actions that holds water. You can talk about how we’re nothing but simpletons simply because we reject your excuses and hold you responsible for what you’ve done, but that doesn’t change the fact that you’re going to pay dearly for what you’ve done. The only way that evil wins in this world is if good people do nothing... and unfortunately for you folks? Not only are we going to do something about what you’re doing, but we’re going to make an example out of you so that no one else is ever foolish enough to try to re-tread your steps ever, ever again.

The mic is presented to EXODUS Pro’s World Champion after that, the blond stepping back to allow Fiona Rourke her well-deserved moment to speak her piece. She holds the microphone down at her side, letting the fans scream and cheer for her as she glares at the ring, especially at Gryphon.

Fiona Rourke: You know...you knuckleheads are really getting on my nerves.

The crowd cheers as Fiona looks out for a second and grins, before turning back to look at the ring.

Fiona Rourke: To say this is an insult is putting it mildly. You’ve all gone from slight annoyances to number one on my hit list. You all think that you can come out here and disrespect the fans and disrespect a man whose made professional wrestling his flesh and blood? You’ve all got another thing coming. I’m sick and tired of you LEGION douchebags and I’m going to end this. Starting tonight? Everything changes. I won’t be waiting on a war....hell, none of us will. Because tonight? EXODUS is going to have the extreme pleasure of finishing what LEGION started.

Gryphon takes in what Fiona has to say and listens intently. He nods his head a few times as she finishes, and slowly, a smile begins to form on his lips. He chuckles to himself, before bringing the microphone up to his lips.

Gryphon: I can appreciate that. But, if you’re finished, Fiona, take your Mongrel...

Gryphon points to Justin Brooks.

Gryphon: ...and your plucky friend...

Gryphon points to Natalie Bateman.

Gryphon: ...and your delusional friend Jimmy out of my ringside area. This is a private ceremony; invitation only. I only see four of you, which means that against this pack of wolves, you’re seriously in over your heads.

Suddenly, the lights in the arena blackout as the crowd starts to stir. The crowd is wondering what’s going on as a spotlight shines on an odd contraption-- namely, a gigantic mechanical moogle that’s hopping back and forth on its feet with surprising ease, all of its gears and moving parts visibly whirring to move it to and fro. Atop it stands another puppet, this one shaped like a cat with a gleaming crown atop its head and a megaphone within one paw. As what one could realize is a Cait Sith puppet comes to a stop, the feline raises that amplifying device to its mouth before a voice issues forth, tinny and distorted around the edges... but decidedly female.

Cait Sith: There’s a precarious balance between the planet and everyone that lives on it-- and sometimes?

A sound that is best described as the bastard child of ear-piercing feedback and an animalistic snarl escapes the puppet’s speakers.

Cait Sith: Some ARSEHELM that thinks he’s special and can do whatever he wants upsets it, tipping things away from the peace Gaia wants and toward war. That makes the planet cry out in agony, in PAIN... and when it’s been hurt enough? It unleashes its last line of defense to set things right and to teach certain egotistical cockbags that not even THEY are above her judgement.

A strange figure emerges from the crowd, clad in a fine tailor made navy blue suit. He has an open buttoned white shirt, but the most striking feature is a pale, ghostly white mask that he wears over his face. The mask itself has two symmetrical red marks on the cheek bones and he wears a pair of goggles pushed up upon his forehead. But most striking of all is this figure’s long crimson red ponytail that flows down his back. He twirls a police baton in his left hand as he lolls his head to the side, glaring maliciously at what is happening in the ring.

Masked Figure: At the round earth's imagined corners blow. Your trumpets, angels, and arise, arise. From death, you numberless infinities… Of souls, and to your scattered bodies go ; All whom the flood did, and fire shall o'erthrow. All whom war, death, age, agues, tyrannies, despair, law, chance hath slain, and you, whose eyes shall behold God, and never taste death's woe...

The figure grins after making this comment, as he continues twirling the baton in his hand.

Masked Figure: Not my words, originally... But I felt as if this quote spoke many volumes about what has happened recently. How your little group’s actions have affected the fold. Affected the innocent, affected the known world. You mindless fools with your self indulgent lust for power, your lust for control, your lust for the destruction of what you will never truly understand.

The figure looks skyward, pointing his baton heavenwards.

Masked Figure: Forgive them Father for they have sinned...

The figure glares back at them, pointing his baton at them in an intimidating manner.

Masked Figure: Nah... F(BLEEP)k that... F(BLEEP)k forgiveness. Your actions, your drive, your deluded and sick intentions have gone way too far. There is a righteous judgement on the horizon. A judgement that is ready to strike down upon you with an untold fury and unholy intent. Oh... you poor misguided deluded fools. You know not what you have done. You know not what is coming for you. You know not what hand fate has dealt for you... My name... Is Reno... And I am not alone...

In case there hadn’t been enough surprises, another masked figure makes their way down the aisle of the crowds. The attention goes to them, people crowding around to get a closer look. Anyone who looked closely quickly realizes that this is another woman, but any extra details are certainly hidden behind the dazzling pink and purple suit and mask, all the way up to a love heart over the face. When she finally gets to the barricade at ringside, she herself brings up her mic, staring up at LEGION in the ring.

Mystery Woman: You’ve committed crimes, LEGION. Terrible, terrible crimes. And this ... this ... this mockery of Jonathan Collins ... this is but the least of them. And now? Now you’ve drawn the wrath and the ire of many. You see, we loved Jonathan. We loved who he was and what he stood for. He was a man who stood for everything that’s right.

Standing back from the barricade, and with her free hand, the woman gestures to the absurdity that lies before everyone: The funeral, the ceremony, and LEGION.

Mystery Woman: And this? This is not right. What you’re doing now? This isn’t love. This is hatred. Hatred and jealousy of a man who was twice what you all were. All eyes are on you now - eyes from within your house of shame and from outside. Yes, you have got my attention - and I am no more familiar to you than anyone else you pass on the street. But make no mistake about it - you WILL learn my name. You will know my name. And you will love my name ... the same way that Jonathan was loved by the fans ... by the wrestlers ... by the people who matter.

The woman hops up to the barricade, taking a seat on it and dangling her legs over the side.

Mystery Woman: For now, though, you can call me Elena ... and I’m one part of the Ultimate ... WEAPON!

The lights pop back up and the casket bursts open as a masked man in all blue rises up from it! Gryphon turns around, only for the mystery man to jump out and attack him, leading the two masked people in suits to run into the ring to help. Seeing an opportunity to help new allies, the group forming the EXODUS Seikigun dash to the ring, starting to help these mysterious newcomers attack LEGION, making the numbers more even. As flowers and props get thrown over and kicked down, LEGION begins to scramble to regroup on the entrance ramp back up towards the entrance as the two groups stand tall! With the slight hesitation between both groups as they stare one another down, the blue man looks at the EXODUS Seikigun and nods, giving a bow before walking back to his two masked and well dressed associates, following them out of the ring and back into the thick of the crowd.

Going backstage, a camera is following alongside a man and a woman. Seeing that the siblings are backstage at an EXODUS event, a mix reaction from the fans in the arena is given at the sight of Xavier and Melissa Michaels.

Xavier Michaels: I still don't see why you wanted to be here. San Diego smells like ass and tacos. Pretend for a second and think there's a difference there.

Melissa Michaels: I told you. And after what happened with her match before, she'll need a bit of a pick me up.

Xavier Michaels: I think Kameron will have that covered tonight.

They round a corner of the hallway and stop abruptly. Melissa glares at her brother for a moment before moving on to where Erin Daniels is being attended to by a medical technician. Seeing the two, Erin moves to get up from the bench on which she's sitting but stops with a cringe of pain. Erin deciding better to remain seated, her and Melissa embrace for a second.

Erin Daniels: Hey girl. Not exactly how I expected the first time you've seen me in EXODUS go down.

Xavier Michaels: Don't let it bug you. These people wouldn't know a winner if it bit them in the ass. San Diego Chargers got the world's smallest trophy case.

Melissa Michaels: As much as it kills me to admit it, he's right. Where's Kameron? We have... things to talk about.

Xavier Michaels: Yeah, where is that son of a bitch at? Talking about the good old days might give me the warm fuzzies for once. And not in a peter puffer type way either.

An EXODUS staff member, a heavy-set man with "#EXODUSAssemble" emblazoned on his chest, approaches the trio from the side.

EXODUS Staff: Sir, I'm going to have to tell you to watch your language. Your being recorded for this taping.

Xavier doesn't pay the camera any mind but only eyes the man for a moment.

Xavier Michaels: EXODUS Assemble. Who the hell do you people think you are? The Avengers?

EXODUS Staff: I've had just about enough of you.

Xavier Michaels: You wouldn't be saying that if I came with a medium drink and some fries.

Melissa Michaels: Xavier, honey, why don't you go play somewhere. Erin and I have girl stuff to talk about. That time of the month you.

Xavier shudders and moves to walk away but stops to pick up a LEGION shirt nearby.

Xavier Michaels: I got to go drop one anyway. Think anyone would mind if I use this in there? It looks like some 80's rock band crap so I'd improving it.

We cut to the back, where EXODUS interviewer Tom Matheny is standing in front of an EXODUS Pro banner backstage, and he is accompanied by the newly signed duo of Leather and Lace.

Tom Matheny: Folks, right now I'm joined by two of the newest members of EXODUS Pro, Selena Alexander, Genesis Logan...uh...Leather and Lace.

The two are almost completely ignoring Tom, gazing into each others eyes. They're wearing their leather ring attire, and begin to lean in for a kiss...

All of a sudden, a loud “AHEM” is heard. The camera pans out and we can see “The Evangelist” Jerry Matthews standing by with Deacon Jeremiah. Matthews is wearing his white suit and black shirt, and has the San Diego Bay title belt over his left shoulder. Jeremiah is wearing his black suit and white shirt.

Jerry Matthews: Well, I see that Rufus Frost has continued to make sure that this company’s reputation remains steadfast in its position in the gutter.

Selena and Genesis both stop, and turn and give the pastor angry looks.

Jerry Matthews: Jeremiah, if you would.

Jeremiah reaches into the pocket of his suit jacket, and pulls out a black leather small pocket-sized Bible. He then hands it to Matthews.

Jerry Matthews: My friends, your lifestyle is expressly outlawed in the Good Book. And, please, save whatever misinformed interpretations you think you might have.

Matthews leafs through the small Bible before coming to a certain page, and then he begins to read aloud.

Jerry Matthews: In the Old Testament, God the Father made sure to lay out the exact type of life he wanted his chosen people to lead in the book of Leviticus. Leviticus 18:22 clearly reads that “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination.” As you can see, it is abundantly clear that the lifestyles you both have chosen to lead is expressly prohibited. Given that I am in a giving mood, I will give you both two weeks to examine yourselves, both inside and out, in order to see the true error of your ways. But, if you would foolishly decide to continue, I’m afraid that Jeremiah and myself will be forced to cast judgment on the both of you, in the name of God the Father. Ladies, please, for your sake, make sure that I don’t have to do this.

Matthews then hands Jeremiah his copy of the Bible back. Both men then bow their heads in a moment of prayer, and then walk off screen, leaving Matheny and Leather and Lace standing there to contemplate his warning.

For television viewers of this week's E-Pro Wrestling, the feed of the show is quickly cut off as their screen transitions into black and white pixels while a loud and unbearable sound of scratching can be heard in the background. Then, the home audience is mystified to see a bearded man standing in a dimly lit room in which he appears to be standing below a lamp, covering the upper portion of his face from the bridge of his nose to the scalp on top of his head. Suddenly, the figure takes a step forward and viewers notice that man making a presence on their monitor is the same man that made his presence known at Invincible.

Anonymous figure: Hey there. Some of you may know me while others, well, you may not and that's just perfectly fine with me. And no, I'm not a hacker so take it easy. But at the same, you shouldn't be worried about who I am or what my name is. Instead, all of you should be thinking about the reasoning of my appearance and why you're watching me for what is now the second time on your little wrestling show.

Now, I've noticed that you guys have a little civil war in your precious company. That's cute. But the thing is, I'm perched up at the top while I see a lot of you beating, battling, and bruising each other in your insignificant war. That's a shame. Why? Because I see that while half of you are worried about this supposed "Legion", all of you should be worrying about your EXODUS. And that's not to say I'm here for a "hostile takeover" or anything like that. Sorry, but that was 1996 and I'm keeping history where it belongs -- yesterday. Rather, all you should be thinking about tomorrow, as in your future.

So no, I'm not here to take a side in your unarmed conflict, no less participate in it. But I'm here as a way to send a message out to everybody in EXODUS, to every member of the roster, and to every single person merely associated with the company -- including you fans -- that I'm not who you think I am. I might be chubby but don't let the gut fool you. And I might not be on your roster but don't let my presence go unnoticed... I'm not saying I'll be ushering in a new era, a new wave, or a new age because I'm not radioactive, nor am I the poison of your promotion that a lot of people perceive me to be. But just think of me as a reality check because all of you need to open your eyes and realize that the clock is ticking before life happens, evolution occurs, and all of you are swept in the amazement of, well, me. So until another time, I'll see you marks later...

Taking a step back into the shadows, the show's feed cuts again into the annoying screeching sounds and waving black and white lines until a black screen appears before transitioning itself into the following portion of the show.