Post by Ratball Slade on Dec 20, 2021 22:34:27 GMT -5
Directly after the Purge
The faucet washes away at the bloodsoaked hands of Slade Castle. He looks into the mirror only to find his reflection. An image that leaves him with guilt and disdain. Each time he nearly breaks down, something within him pulls him back up, urging him to continue on. He leans on the sink letting his hands dangle under the running water. His hands are covered in cuts and bruises, as well as the rest of his body, only worse. He pulls out small pieces of glass that had broken off and were forced deep into his skin, many fragments too small and deep to retrieve. Slade looks directly into the reflection of his own eyes.
Slade Castle: I’m sorry…
Slade went into the main part of the hotel room and grabbed what he had available to attempt to clean his wounds. The hotel room didn’t have much available. Slade shook under the tremendous amount of stress and fear he was feeling. It was a side of him that he had buried deeply until now. Something about what had gone down that night changed him. Just as Slade almost slipped free from the thing he had become, there was a knock on his door. He sat there for a moment and composed himself. He didn’t want to be seen like this. He spent so long burning that side of himself he wasn’t about to let someone else see it. As he got up and approached the door there was another knock. Slade looked through the peephole, then opened the door to be greeted by Valkyrie holding a few bottles of alcohol. She held up a bottle and even though he could tell she was speaking he couldn’t hear her. He was just relieved there was someone here to distract him from his thoughts. Not only that, but someone else who knew what he had been through. He stepped back to let her in, now going back to being the Slade Castle he had become.
Hours passed and the night turned to day. Slade woke up the next morning with only an hour or two of sleep just before the sun began to rise. One thing that always stuck with Slade were the early hours he had adjusted to in the military. Valkyrie was next to him in bed. Not ready to confront what had happened the night before, Slade quickly packed his things, of which he had very little, and left without a goodbye. They both knew this wasn’t a permanent thing so he wasn’t worried about hurt feelings. They both had their own issues to deal with, and Slade had to prepare for Black Friday.
Directly After Black Friday
Slade leaves the mall attempting to avoid any crowds. As he’s leaving he notices Julius in the back of an ambulance allowing some EMTs to look at his eye. Julius appears to be fine, albeit annoyed, but Slade still feels a tinge of guilt. He brushes it off as he passes through and continues to make his way out. This was him now. Nothing would stop him. He had to make sure everyone knew he was the best. This idea had slowly morphed into an obsession during his time fighting both on the street and in the ring. It was an obsession that Slade couldn’t easily let go of. Deep down Slade understood that this couldn’t even possibly be true. That wouldn’t stop him from trying to make it a reality though. Slade made his way to his rental vehicle and drove off, heading to an appointment he had made in Detroit. His phone begins to ring. As Slade contemplates answering he notices the caller ID is his doctor Sarah. Reluctantly, he picks up.
Slade Castle: This is Castle…
Sarah Green: Hello Mr. Castle, this is Sarah calling from Mental Gardens, how are you today?
Slade continues to drive, one hand on the wheel.
Slade Castle: Fine, what do you want Sarah?
Sarah Green: I’m just calling about the appointment you rescheduled, it’s outside of the timeframe for you to keep your appearances here for your court order. Now I can push it up but I’m afraid the time you selected will not work.
Slade Castle: Well unfortunately I got plans, so I don’t have time.
Sarah Green: That’s not how this works, Slade. You either make your appointments on time or they institutionalize you or put you in prison. At that point it’s out of my hands. I suggest you make it work.
Slade looks at his phone and silently damns the whole situation. He brings the phone back to his ear.
Slade Castle: Fine. I can make it the day before Fallout. Can’t do it any sooner.
There is a moment of silence.
Sarah Green: Alright, I have you marked down for December 8th. I shall see you then.
Slade Castle: Yeah…
Slade hangs up the phone and throws it to the back as he continues to make his way back to Detroit.
2 Days after Black Friday at a freight station somewhere in Detroit
Slade is taping up his scarred fists. Usually he doesn’t have much privacy but this was a special occasion. Slade had specifically asked for a place to prepare privately. He was gonna draw out the man who had been setting him up. As he finishes taping his fists he looks around his empty shipping container. It was nearly completely empty aside from a single standing lamp for him to use for light and a chair. He pulls two pairs of dog tags out of his pockets. His name inscribed on one, and his former squadmate, Brickson’s, on the other. Slade holds the tags up to his head as he begins to whisper to himself.
Slade Castle: I’m gonna find this mother fucker. For you, and everyone else I had taken from me Brickson. I won’t let this bastard get away.
Slade stands from his chair and slowly approaches one edge of the container. As he pushes the door open the sound of the crowd begins to find its way to his ears. Normally this sound is just what he needs to get pumped up for a fight but not today. Today was a different kind of focus. Slade wasn’t just here for a fight. He was ready to do whatever it took to get his point across.
Jerry: Hey champ. You about ready? You’re up next.
Jerry, the fight manager and associate of Slade approached from the side. Slade, with his pure focus on the fight, almost didn’t notice or hear him approach. Jerry held up a clipboard and pointed to it with a pen in his other hand. Slade ignored the impatient gesture.
Jerry: You’re the main event so everyone is ready for fight of the night. Better make it a good one. I’m doin this for you, you know.
Slade Castle: Yeah…
Slade ignores the man and makes his way to the makeshift arena he’d be fighting in. As they finish pulling the previous fighters from the ring, an announcer begins to speak over the speakers.
Announcer: Alright ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for our main event! Our newest, and fastest rising star fighter, Oliver Drake, makes an attempt at taking down the Slayer of the Street! That’s right, one night only, Slade Castle makes his way back to the fight ring!
The crowd erupts with excitement. The legend of Slade Castle has only seemingly grown since he left underground fighting and gone to Project: Honor. Slade makes his way through the crowd into the circle where his opponent is sitting on a stool across from him. Like himself, Slade’s opponent is wearing dog tags around his neck. His opponent was a former Marine like himself. Not only were they both former Marines but the man sitting across from Slade was one he thought looked vaguely familiar but he couldn’t place it.
Announcer: Ladies and Gentlemen! It is time! Both fighters, please take your stances as we prepare to begin.
The crowd begins to get rowdy as a man in a full suit with his face covered by a mask makes his way just close enough to get a good view of the match. Slade notices the man as he goes to about halfway between the edge of the circle and the center before raising his fists. His opponent does the same, nearly copying his exact stance. Slade glares at Oliver.
Slade Castle: Do I know you?
Before his opponent can answer, the announcer speaks up once again.
Announcer: Alright, let the fight… BEGIN!
Oliver glances at the masked man, causing Slade to do the same. While Slade is distracted, Oliver rushes, landing a hard punch to the gut knocking the air out of Slade. Oliver begins unleashing a flurry of blows to the sides of Slade before pushing him back into the wall of people. Slade stays back for a moment, trying to catch his breath.
Oliver Drake: Not yet.
Oliver rushes to Slade again, but this time is caught off guard by a quick uppercut knocking him off his feet. Slade rolls his shoulder and approaches the downed Oliver as he begins to scramble to his feet.
Slade Castle: Now’s not the time to get cocky you little shit.
Slade goes in on Oliver, this time unleashing his own flurry of blows to the sides of his opponent. OIiver, in a desperate defensive maneuver, picks up Slade and slams him down on the solid dirt ground beneath them. Oliver slams down massive hammering blows, trying to get through Slade’s guard as he holds his arms up trying to minimize the damage. Slade gets his legs under Oliver and grabs his head. Slade pushes off with his legs keeping his grip on Oliver’s head sending Oliver flying over him. As Oliver hits the ground Slade quickly rolls over and tries to mount Oliver to throw his own blows, but Oliver is too quick and rolls to his feet. Both men find themselves face to face on their feet. Neither are approaching the other now as they try to figure each other out.
Slade Brings his arms back up and begins to walk towards Oliver. Oliver does the same. As they approach each other both men take turns throwing wild swings at each other. They both land multiple shots until eventually they both let their guards down and just start letting their fists fly. The crowd begins to cheer wildly at the pure carnage that is taking place before them. Both men continue going until Slade notices Oliver starting to lose steam. The second he has an opening, Slade throws a headbutt at Oliver, stunning him. The dazed Oliver barely keeps himself from toppling over until he’s hit by the Visions of Delusion spinning backfist by Slade Castle.
Oliver falls to the ground. While this would normally be the end of the fight Slade has other plans. Slade picks up the barely conscious foe and locks him into the Lights Out rear naked choke. As Oliver struggles to stay standing, Slade begins to yell into the crowd looking directly at the masked man.
Slade Castle: You think you can control me?! You think you know what I’m capable of?! If you don’t show yourself soon this is what you can expect you bastard! I will find you!
Slade now with the fury of the devil himself, flips Oliver around and begins to lay into his unprotected face. Punch after punch the crowd quickly goes from excited to disgusted and fearful while Slade brutalizes his opponent. The masked man quickly retreats through the commotion of the crowd. Eventually Slade let’s go of Oliver and lets him fall to the ground. Slade then kneels over Oliver and is about to continue throwing punches to finish the job until he once again notices the dog tags hanging from the man's neck. In a moment of weakness, Slade looks at his hands and then quickly looks around him at the shocked faces of the viewers in the crowd. Slade quickly stands up and walks away, the crowd giving him plenty of room to leave.
Slade goes back to his container and grabs his bag before trying to quickly exit the area. Jerry rushes to Slade, visibly furious with him.
Jerry: What the hell was that?! Are you trying to get me fired or worse? You know what you just did out there? You put every last one of us in a real rough spot and probably just gave my best fighter severe brain damage. You got anything to say for yourself?
Slade stops and turns to Jerry grabbing him by the color and gets him real close and face to face..
Slade Castle: Don’t fucking come after me. I don’t give a shit about your little fights anymore. You got that? Consider your favor done. Now get the fuck out of my face and if you really got a problem with me, never talk to me again.
Slade releases Jerry and continues to make his way out.
1 Day before Fallout at Mental Gardens Institute
Sarah is sitting across from Slade trying to get into his head. He’s off this week. Something about Slade was drastically different from what she had seen previously. He seemed almost lost compared to his normal self. Sarah sat forward and exhaled, setting her notepad aside.
Sarah Green: Slade, off the record, is something bothering you? I mean more than usual. You just don’t seem like your normal self this week.
Slade is staring out the office window, barely hearing what Sarah is saying but not entirely listening either.
Sarah Green: Slade…
Slade Castle quickly snaps out of his moment and looks to Sarah.
Slade Castle: Oh, uh, yeah… Sorry Doc, it’s been a pretty crazy couple weeks for me.
Sarah Green: You know you can talk about it here, Slade. That’s what this is for. Nothing leaves this room.
Meanwhile somewhere far from the office itself, a man sits listening to the very conversation through a camera secretly set up in the room. Slade rolls his neck then looks down to the ground.
Slade Castle: Nothing leaves this room?
Sarah Green: Nothing.
Slade Castle: You know doc, I think someone may be controlling my life. Ever since that day the IED went off that killed my squad, it’s felt like I’ve never really had a choice. Everything I’ve gotten, every opportunity. It came to me completely regardless of what I may have done to earn the opportunity or not. I wanted to leave it all behind when I first left the battlefield. All the violence and pain. Now it’s like I’ve been shaped into some sadistic tool of destruction. What if that isn’t me, doc?
Sarah tilts her head to the side making a crooked frown trying to think of what to say.
Sarah Green: You know Slade, a lot of people feel like they don’t have control of their lives. It’s not like someone would go out of their way to make you something you’re not.
Slade Castle: Nah, they absolutely would. You don’t know the kind of shit I’ve seen. The things I had to fight against. There are a lot of things I can’t say, but I will tell you this. I wasn’t just a marine doc. I was a part of a special unit tasked with taking down a secret organization. One that even to this day I don’t know the true name of. They had money and people everywhere. It’s like we were always in danger or being watched. I still feel that presence today.
Sarah Green: So you think this organization is still watching you?
Slade Castle: No, it’s more than that. They need me for something. I just don’t know what.
Sarah Green: So this organization. Do you think they actually exist or is this something that exists inside you?
Slade Castle: I’m not fucking crazy doc. What is the point in me talking about this if you aren’t even going to take this seriously.
Sarah Green: I’m just doing my job Slade, I’m sorry.
Slade shakes his head and looks to his scarred hands.
Slade Castle: You know, I’ve taken lives before but I was always able to justify it. It was always in the pursuit of a mission, a noble mission. I’m not so sure what right from wrong is anymore. I think I may be in too deep with something now. I’ve witnessed things. Things I’m not sure I agree with. I’m not sure what to do anymore doc.
Sarah stands up and walks over to Slade’s side of the table. Sarah sits next to Slade and puts a hand on his shoulder.
Slade Castle: I saw a man get murdered. The piece of shit who did it, did it with such selfish purpose too. An innocent man died and I did nothing to stop it. What happened to me, doc? Where did my humanity go?
Sarah freezes, horrified by what she’s hearing. However, this doesn’t deter her as she is actually making progress with Slade. More than she had before.
Sarah Green: We all make mistakes Slade, we just have to make sure we don’t make mistakes we can’t return from. I want you to think real hard about what you’re telling me. Something tells me you already know the right thing to do here.
Slade shrugs.
Slade Castle: Even if I do, it’ll only do more harm than good at this point. I can’t turn back now. This is my breaking point though. I can’t get any deeper than this.
Sarah begins to notice a tear forming on Castle's face. She realizes that deep down, more than anything, the ruthless Slade Castle is scared.
The man watching through the camera sighs, frustrated with something.
??: I’m sorry Slade. I just need you to get a little farther. You’re so close.
After Fallout: Wired Actions
Medical personnel pull Slade and Julius from the wreckage under the stage, trying to make sure to separate them both before they recover. Both men begin to get up as they are being pulled away. They attempt to fight the medics and security pulling them to their respective doctors. Neither appear strong enough to pull apart though.
Slade Castle: I’m not done with you Julie, you hear me bitch?
Slade is barely able to muster out his words. Julius responds, equally weakened by the fall.
Julius Fairweather: Loud and clear, motherfucker. Don’t keep me waiting.
As Slade gets pulled aside he begins speaking to one of the staff members helping him to the doctor’s room.
Slade Castle: So… did we win?
Slade continues to breathe heavily, wincing with every step they take.
Staff member: You mean True Society? Yeah, they won.
Slade Castle: Well, that’s good I suppose.
Eventually they make it back to the doctor and drop Slade onto the table. The doctor walks over and takes a look at Slade, who’s just trying his best to stay conscious.
Doctor: What the hell? When was the last time you were seen by a doctor? You are beat to shit, and this is certainly not all from that fall.
Slade Castle: It may have been a few weeks.
The doctor runs a few tests and examines Slade. As he goes across, Slade’s entire body is covered in bruises, his shoulder has been dislocated and his hands are still covered in cuts and scars from the Purge.
Doctor: Damn, I’m not sure I can have you cleared by Wired Consequences.
Slade reaches up and grabs the doctor. He pulls him in by the shoulder.
Slade Castle: Doc, this ain’t a matter of if I’m cleared, got it? I’ll be good by Wired Consequences. So why don’t you do what you can and let me be on my way, yeah?
The doctor does little in the way of protesting Slade’s decision and sets his shoulder back in place before cleaning some of Slade's old cuts, stitching up new ones, and prescribing him some pain meds for the swelling and bruises.
Doctor: Alright, you’re good to go Mr. Castle.
Slade Castle: God I hate when people call me that.
Slade gets up from the bed and nearly falls over before regaining his balance and making his way out of the arena.
At Rock Johnson’s Funeral in Los Angeles
Castle takes a few big steps forward, ignoring Arik Holt’s hand as he reaches out in an attempt to calm him.
JULIUS FAIRWEATHER: Hell yeah! Let’s do this shit right here and now!
Julius begins to loosen the tie around his neck, but Slade suddenly charges forward to tackle the bad motherfucker off his feet. Continuing the brawl that began on Fallout, Julius and Slade tumble across the stage, taking out the podium and several floral arrangements. The two men roll toward the back of the stage as they throw punches in an attempt to get an advantage over each other. Even the priest is not safe as Slade and Julius get to their feet and Castle ducks underneath a right cross from Fairweather. The punch knocks the holy man out cold before Castle tackles Julius a second time, sending both men into the open grave on top of Rock Johnson’s closed casket. Finally, a mix of Project: Honor officials and competitors rush forward to stop the brawl and remove the two men from Johnson’s grave as the footage reaches its conclusion…
Moments after…
Slade and Julius are loaded into separate cop cars as they are taken to the Los Angeles County Jail to be processed.
They both go through standard procedure before being locked into their cells, which happen to be directly across from one another. They both glare daggers at the other without saying a word. This lasts for nearly an hour. Finally, Julius takes a few steps toward the door.
Julius Fairweather: I hope you realize this shit’s your fault. I was perfectly fine letting this shit wait while we were at the bossman's funeral.
Slade stands up and approaches his door as well.
Slade Castle: I’m not the guy who was using that funeral to call people out, now was I?
Julius Fairweather: I never said your name, now did I?
Slade Castle: You didn’t need to.
Julius grimaces at Slade who snorts back.
Slade Castle: You look a little upset there, Julie.
Julius Fairweather: YOU TRIED TO SHOOT MY DAMN EYE OUT, MOTHERFUCKER!
Officer: QUIET DOWN, GENTLEMEN!
An officer hollers to the men from down the hall. Slade raises his hands.
Slade Castle: Nothing personal, Julie. Just happened in the heat of the moment.
Julius Fairweather: It felt pretty damn personal to me.
Both men go silent for a moment while the rest of the jailhouse remains noisy enough on its own.
Slade Castle: No more bullshit, Julie. We settle this at Wired Consequences.
Julius notices the grin that appears on Slade’s face as he speaks those words.
Julius Fairweather: Uh-huh, what the fuck is that grin about? What kind of shit you got planned in that misguided head of yours now huh?
Slade Castle: Just remember, Julie, my beef was never meant to be with you. You just got caught in the crossfire joining that little shit Petey.
Julius Fairweather: That little shit is my tag team partner and champion. You ain’t taking that away from me. Besides, why the hell did you join those freaks anyway, Slade? I thought, at least for a moment, that you’d be better than that.
Slade Castle: We all got our reasons for doing what we do, don’t we Julius?
The officers come by and begin to unlock Julius’ cell to release him. As Slade gets ready to exit the officer turns to him.
Officer: Not you, just Julius. Multiple eyewitnesses determined that you initiated the confrontation.
Julius smirks and looks back.
Julius Fairweather: Told you so…
Julius begins to walk away a free man while Slade sits in his cell, frustrated, waiting for his release which wouldn’t come for many hours yet. Finally, an officer approaches the cell and unlocks it.
Officer: Arik Holt sends his regards. I suggest this doesn’t happen again.
Slade walks out of the cell and retrieves his things. He looks over to Julius' empty cell.
Slade Castle: Yeah, best to not be on Julie's bad side huh? Wouldn’t wanna be the poor sucker having to deal with him all the time.
Slade smiles at the officer and then leaves the station.
Present in New York City, New York
The camera opens to Slade on the balcony from his hotel room leaning on the railing and looking out over the city. He has the Noble Championship resting on his shoulder as he watches the people below. Slade wipes his hand across his face before resting it back on his head.
Slade Castle: Arik really made sure my work was cut out for me didn't he? There wasn't one person to be granted a Noble Championship shot at Purge. Not two, not three, but four lucky winners to get a shot… at this.
Slade grabs one of the straps and holds his Noble championship up to the camera. Slade brings the title back over his shoulder and continues.
Slade Castle: I’m not gonna lie to you. I’ve had a pretty shit few weeks so y’all better not be expecting any mercy. Bishop already got a taste of what's coming to him, Savannah already knows she can’t beat me, this Alyssa person doesn’t have the spine to do what it takes to keep me down, and despite being my “teammate”...
Slade air quotes the word teammate to the camera before turning back to the city.
Slade Castle: Billy will get no mercy from me. I’m fine with staying out of her way as long as she stays out of mine, but if she thinks for a second this belt is coming home with her, she's got another thing coming. This curse is mine to bear for now and I’m not ready to move on. Before that can even happen though, I have the wonder duo to deal with. Petey and Julius, The Motherfuckers. Don’t worry, I’m coming prepared. My partner is sure to make quite the splash. I hope you’re both ready. Especially you Julius, this ones just for you.
Slade winks to the camera with a toothy grin on his face.
Slade Castle: Whether or not I can trust my fellow True Society members is no longer a part of the question. The question is more, which True Society member can I trust the most. I thought about this little notion for a while and I couldn’t really decide. There is one member that sticks out as a man I’m sure could get the job done. He is a busy guy though and whether he has the time to kick it in the tag division is debatable. Either way I began to think outside of True Society as well. Could be a good way to induct new members after all. Who doesn’t want a free title shot? Hell, maybe even one of those Big Drip goons would want a shot. Then I thought a little deeper. This could be a hell of a way to cause some chaos. After all, what does True Society cause more of than chaos. Not much. Arik Holt may not approve of my choice in tag partner but he can suck my dick. I may work for him, but it’s clear he isn’t my friend, and to be honest, none of us joined True Society to be friends. So Julius? Petey? I hope you’re ready for some fun. I know I will take a little extra pleasure in this match than I do in most. Especially once Petey’s hopes and dreams for Big Drip and The Motherfuckers are crushed once and for all.
Slade brushes off the Noble title and stares at the shine of the moonlight bouncing off the title.
Slade Castle: You know, holding this title has grown on me. It might actually be nice to hold two at the end of the night. In order for that to happen I’m going to have to dismantle each and every one of my opponents at Wired Consequences. It would help if I knew exactly what kind of match it may be but I’ll win all the same.
Slade takes a few steps back and reaches into the pocket of his heavy winter jacket. He pulls out four photographs, one of each of his opponents and lines them up. At the top of the stack is Savannah.
Slade Castle: Savannah Sunshine. How many times do I got to see your stupid whiny face? Can’t you just leave me alone? Have I not done enough damage? How bad do I have to hurt you for you to realize you're in the ring with the wrong man? You see Savannah, I don’t give a fuck about your relationship with Holt anymore. I just want you gone. If I have to beat you and your little demon inside…
Slade turns and mockingly waves to the camera.
Slade Castle: …I’ll make sure I kill the bitch for you. Then maybe after doing you a solid and beating up your little demons I won’t have to see you anymore.
Slade without turning away from the camera throws the picture of Savannah off the balcony revealing Alyssa underneath.
Slade Castle: Looks here like we got some fresh blood. Alyssa Grace. You came at a bad time. I get it, you're new, you want to make a name for yourself. This ain’t the way to do it. Pissing off a man who, at this point, has nothing more to gain, and nothing more to lose is not something you should be doing. You got a taste of the violence at Purge but I prefer to fight my fights a different way. I will come at you and you can throw whatever shot you want at me. I'll make sure it’ll be the last thing you do. You seem like an alright person, and I want to give you a chance. Don’t try me. I won’t give you another.
Slade throws the picture of Alyssa off the balcony revealing Bishop under hers.
Slade Castle: Now here’s a guy I know is coming in looking for a fight. Well you want one with me Bishop? You fucking got it. I’ll admit you put up a bit of a fight at Purge, but, who here ended up on top? Oh yeah, that’s right… I did. So it’s time to repeat history once again and prove without a shadow of a doubt that you just can’t step up to me. I like how you fight, so do me a favor and don’t hold your punches tough guy. I know I won’t be. Every punch I throw is swinging for the fences and I’m not done till I’ve taken each and every one of your heads off, especially you.
Slade throws Bishop's photo off the balcony like the others leaving only one remaining in his hands. Billy Bennet.
Slade Castle: Billy, I’m gonna make you an offer here. You can show up. You can fight to your heart's content. Don’t come after me. If you don’t want me to hurt you then why don’t we just work together to make sure none of these assholes get the title, yeah? We can settle this when it’s just down to us or another time. Let’s be real honest here. You won’t beat me if you try. Ture Society has got to come out on top here so if you screw this up, none of us will be pleased I can assure you.
Slade dangles Billy’s photo from the ledge not quite dropping it, showing how he’s giving her a chance.
Slade Castle: Hypothetically though, let’s say you do come after me. There’s just gonna be one less member of True Society when I end your career then and there, got it?
Slade then drops the photo and watches it as it drifts downward to join the others. Slade stands up no longer leaning on the rail and turns to fully face the camera.
Slade Castle: This is my night. Nothing can take this away from me. I don’t care what kind of bullshit I have to go through to get there but I’m leaving with my titles. By the end of the night I just want everyone to know one thing. You can’t stop me, and you can’t stop True Society, it’s just too far gone now. Wired Consequences II is not just gonna be known as the show that True Society owns, it’ll be known as the show that put Slade Castle on every motherfuckers radar. I’m not hiding. Anyone and everyone can have a piece. I’m fucking ready.
Slade turns and begins walking inside and is half way through the door when he stops. He quickly turns and grabs the camera out of the cameraman's hands. The camera unsteadily spins temporarily showing the now cowering camera operator before going back to Slade’s face now uncomfortably close. The derangement, clearly visible in his eyes.
Slade Castle: I’ll see you all in hell.
Slade throws the camera from the balcony. We see a fast moving image of the city as it plummets, ultimately with the picture going black as it hits the ground.
The faucet washes away at the bloodsoaked hands of Slade Castle. He looks into the mirror only to find his reflection. An image that leaves him with guilt and disdain. Each time he nearly breaks down, something within him pulls him back up, urging him to continue on. He leans on the sink letting his hands dangle under the running water. His hands are covered in cuts and bruises, as well as the rest of his body, only worse. He pulls out small pieces of glass that had broken off and were forced deep into his skin, many fragments too small and deep to retrieve. Slade looks directly into the reflection of his own eyes.
Slade Castle: I’m sorry…
Slade went into the main part of the hotel room and grabbed what he had available to attempt to clean his wounds. The hotel room didn’t have much available. Slade shook under the tremendous amount of stress and fear he was feeling. It was a side of him that he had buried deeply until now. Something about what had gone down that night changed him. Just as Slade almost slipped free from the thing he had become, there was a knock on his door. He sat there for a moment and composed himself. He didn’t want to be seen like this. He spent so long burning that side of himself he wasn’t about to let someone else see it. As he got up and approached the door there was another knock. Slade looked through the peephole, then opened the door to be greeted by Valkyrie holding a few bottles of alcohol. She held up a bottle and even though he could tell she was speaking he couldn’t hear her. He was just relieved there was someone here to distract him from his thoughts. Not only that, but someone else who knew what he had been through. He stepped back to let her in, now going back to being the Slade Castle he had become.
Hours passed and the night turned to day. Slade woke up the next morning with only an hour or two of sleep just before the sun began to rise. One thing that always stuck with Slade were the early hours he had adjusted to in the military. Valkyrie was next to him in bed. Not ready to confront what had happened the night before, Slade quickly packed his things, of which he had very little, and left without a goodbye. They both knew this wasn’t a permanent thing so he wasn’t worried about hurt feelings. They both had their own issues to deal with, and Slade had to prepare for Black Friday.
Directly After Black Friday
Slade leaves the mall attempting to avoid any crowds. As he’s leaving he notices Julius in the back of an ambulance allowing some EMTs to look at his eye. Julius appears to be fine, albeit annoyed, but Slade still feels a tinge of guilt. He brushes it off as he passes through and continues to make his way out. This was him now. Nothing would stop him. He had to make sure everyone knew he was the best. This idea had slowly morphed into an obsession during his time fighting both on the street and in the ring. It was an obsession that Slade couldn’t easily let go of. Deep down Slade understood that this couldn’t even possibly be true. That wouldn’t stop him from trying to make it a reality though. Slade made his way to his rental vehicle and drove off, heading to an appointment he had made in Detroit. His phone begins to ring. As Slade contemplates answering he notices the caller ID is his doctor Sarah. Reluctantly, he picks up.
Slade Castle: This is Castle…
Sarah Green: Hello Mr. Castle, this is Sarah calling from Mental Gardens, how are you today?
Slade continues to drive, one hand on the wheel.
Slade Castle: Fine, what do you want Sarah?
Sarah Green: I’m just calling about the appointment you rescheduled, it’s outside of the timeframe for you to keep your appearances here for your court order. Now I can push it up but I’m afraid the time you selected will not work.
Slade Castle: Well unfortunately I got plans, so I don’t have time.
Sarah Green: That’s not how this works, Slade. You either make your appointments on time or they institutionalize you or put you in prison. At that point it’s out of my hands. I suggest you make it work.
Slade looks at his phone and silently damns the whole situation. He brings the phone back to his ear.
Slade Castle: Fine. I can make it the day before Fallout. Can’t do it any sooner.
There is a moment of silence.
Sarah Green: Alright, I have you marked down for December 8th. I shall see you then.
Slade Castle: Yeah…
Slade hangs up the phone and throws it to the back as he continues to make his way back to Detroit.
2 Days after Black Friday at a freight station somewhere in Detroit
Slade is taping up his scarred fists. Usually he doesn’t have much privacy but this was a special occasion. Slade had specifically asked for a place to prepare privately. He was gonna draw out the man who had been setting him up. As he finishes taping his fists he looks around his empty shipping container. It was nearly completely empty aside from a single standing lamp for him to use for light and a chair. He pulls two pairs of dog tags out of his pockets. His name inscribed on one, and his former squadmate, Brickson’s, on the other. Slade holds the tags up to his head as he begins to whisper to himself.
Slade Castle: I’m gonna find this mother fucker. For you, and everyone else I had taken from me Brickson. I won’t let this bastard get away.
Slade stands from his chair and slowly approaches one edge of the container. As he pushes the door open the sound of the crowd begins to find its way to his ears. Normally this sound is just what he needs to get pumped up for a fight but not today. Today was a different kind of focus. Slade wasn’t just here for a fight. He was ready to do whatever it took to get his point across.
Jerry: Hey champ. You about ready? You’re up next.
Jerry, the fight manager and associate of Slade approached from the side. Slade, with his pure focus on the fight, almost didn’t notice or hear him approach. Jerry held up a clipboard and pointed to it with a pen in his other hand. Slade ignored the impatient gesture.
Jerry: You’re the main event so everyone is ready for fight of the night. Better make it a good one. I’m doin this for you, you know.
Slade Castle: Yeah…
Slade ignores the man and makes his way to the makeshift arena he’d be fighting in. As they finish pulling the previous fighters from the ring, an announcer begins to speak over the speakers.
Announcer: Alright ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for our main event! Our newest, and fastest rising star fighter, Oliver Drake, makes an attempt at taking down the Slayer of the Street! That’s right, one night only, Slade Castle makes his way back to the fight ring!
The crowd erupts with excitement. The legend of Slade Castle has only seemingly grown since he left underground fighting and gone to Project: Honor. Slade makes his way through the crowd into the circle where his opponent is sitting on a stool across from him. Like himself, Slade’s opponent is wearing dog tags around his neck. His opponent was a former Marine like himself. Not only were they both former Marines but the man sitting across from Slade was one he thought looked vaguely familiar but he couldn’t place it.
Announcer: Ladies and Gentlemen! It is time! Both fighters, please take your stances as we prepare to begin.
The crowd begins to get rowdy as a man in a full suit with his face covered by a mask makes his way just close enough to get a good view of the match. Slade notices the man as he goes to about halfway between the edge of the circle and the center before raising his fists. His opponent does the same, nearly copying his exact stance. Slade glares at Oliver.
Slade Castle: Do I know you?
Before his opponent can answer, the announcer speaks up once again.
Announcer: Alright, let the fight… BEGIN!
Oliver glances at the masked man, causing Slade to do the same. While Slade is distracted, Oliver rushes, landing a hard punch to the gut knocking the air out of Slade. Oliver begins unleashing a flurry of blows to the sides of Slade before pushing him back into the wall of people. Slade stays back for a moment, trying to catch his breath.
Oliver Drake: Not yet.
Oliver rushes to Slade again, but this time is caught off guard by a quick uppercut knocking him off his feet. Slade rolls his shoulder and approaches the downed Oliver as he begins to scramble to his feet.
Slade Castle: Now’s not the time to get cocky you little shit.
Slade goes in on Oliver, this time unleashing his own flurry of blows to the sides of his opponent. OIiver, in a desperate defensive maneuver, picks up Slade and slams him down on the solid dirt ground beneath them. Oliver slams down massive hammering blows, trying to get through Slade’s guard as he holds his arms up trying to minimize the damage. Slade gets his legs under Oliver and grabs his head. Slade pushes off with his legs keeping his grip on Oliver’s head sending Oliver flying over him. As Oliver hits the ground Slade quickly rolls over and tries to mount Oliver to throw his own blows, but Oliver is too quick and rolls to his feet. Both men find themselves face to face on their feet. Neither are approaching the other now as they try to figure each other out.
Slade Brings his arms back up and begins to walk towards Oliver. Oliver does the same. As they approach each other both men take turns throwing wild swings at each other. They both land multiple shots until eventually they both let their guards down and just start letting their fists fly. The crowd begins to cheer wildly at the pure carnage that is taking place before them. Both men continue going until Slade notices Oliver starting to lose steam. The second he has an opening, Slade throws a headbutt at Oliver, stunning him. The dazed Oliver barely keeps himself from toppling over until he’s hit by the Visions of Delusion spinning backfist by Slade Castle.
Oliver falls to the ground. While this would normally be the end of the fight Slade has other plans. Slade picks up the barely conscious foe and locks him into the Lights Out rear naked choke. As Oliver struggles to stay standing, Slade begins to yell into the crowd looking directly at the masked man.
Slade Castle: You think you can control me?! You think you know what I’m capable of?! If you don’t show yourself soon this is what you can expect you bastard! I will find you!
Slade now with the fury of the devil himself, flips Oliver around and begins to lay into his unprotected face. Punch after punch the crowd quickly goes from excited to disgusted and fearful while Slade brutalizes his opponent. The masked man quickly retreats through the commotion of the crowd. Eventually Slade let’s go of Oliver and lets him fall to the ground. Slade then kneels over Oliver and is about to continue throwing punches to finish the job until he once again notices the dog tags hanging from the man's neck. In a moment of weakness, Slade looks at his hands and then quickly looks around him at the shocked faces of the viewers in the crowd. Slade quickly stands up and walks away, the crowd giving him plenty of room to leave.
Slade goes back to his container and grabs his bag before trying to quickly exit the area. Jerry rushes to Slade, visibly furious with him.
Jerry: What the hell was that?! Are you trying to get me fired or worse? You know what you just did out there? You put every last one of us in a real rough spot and probably just gave my best fighter severe brain damage. You got anything to say for yourself?
Slade stops and turns to Jerry grabbing him by the color and gets him real close and face to face..
Slade Castle: Don’t fucking come after me. I don’t give a shit about your little fights anymore. You got that? Consider your favor done. Now get the fuck out of my face and if you really got a problem with me, never talk to me again.
Slade releases Jerry and continues to make his way out.
1 Day before Fallout at Mental Gardens Institute
Sarah is sitting across from Slade trying to get into his head. He’s off this week. Something about Slade was drastically different from what she had seen previously. He seemed almost lost compared to his normal self. Sarah sat forward and exhaled, setting her notepad aside.
Sarah Green: Slade, off the record, is something bothering you? I mean more than usual. You just don’t seem like your normal self this week.
Slade is staring out the office window, barely hearing what Sarah is saying but not entirely listening either.
Sarah Green: Slade…
Slade Castle quickly snaps out of his moment and looks to Sarah.
Slade Castle: Oh, uh, yeah… Sorry Doc, it’s been a pretty crazy couple weeks for me.
Sarah Green: You know you can talk about it here, Slade. That’s what this is for. Nothing leaves this room.
Meanwhile somewhere far from the office itself, a man sits listening to the very conversation through a camera secretly set up in the room. Slade rolls his neck then looks down to the ground.
Slade Castle: Nothing leaves this room?
Sarah Green: Nothing.
Slade Castle: You know doc, I think someone may be controlling my life. Ever since that day the IED went off that killed my squad, it’s felt like I’ve never really had a choice. Everything I’ve gotten, every opportunity. It came to me completely regardless of what I may have done to earn the opportunity or not. I wanted to leave it all behind when I first left the battlefield. All the violence and pain. Now it’s like I’ve been shaped into some sadistic tool of destruction. What if that isn’t me, doc?
Sarah tilts her head to the side making a crooked frown trying to think of what to say.
Sarah Green: You know Slade, a lot of people feel like they don’t have control of their lives. It’s not like someone would go out of their way to make you something you’re not.
Slade Castle: Nah, they absolutely would. You don’t know the kind of shit I’ve seen. The things I had to fight against. There are a lot of things I can’t say, but I will tell you this. I wasn’t just a marine doc. I was a part of a special unit tasked with taking down a secret organization. One that even to this day I don’t know the true name of. They had money and people everywhere. It’s like we were always in danger or being watched. I still feel that presence today.
Sarah Green: So you think this organization is still watching you?
Slade Castle: No, it’s more than that. They need me for something. I just don’t know what.
Sarah Green: So this organization. Do you think they actually exist or is this something that exists inside you?
Slade Castle: I’m not fucking crazy doc. What is the point in me talking about this if you aren’t even going to take this seriously.
Sarah Green: I’m just doing my job Slade, I’m sorry.
Slade shakes his head and looks to his scarred hands.
Slade Castle: You know, I’ve taken lives before but I was always able to justify it. It was always in the pursuit of a mission, a noble mission. I’m not so sure what right from wrong is anymore. I think I may be in too deep with something now. I’ve witnessed things. Things I’m not sure I agree with. I’m not sure what to do anymore doc.
Sarah stands up and walks over to Slade’s side of the table. Sarah sits next to Slade and puts a hand on his shoulder.
Slade Castle: I saw a man get murdered. The piece of shit who did it, did it with such selfish purpose too. An innocent man died and I did nothing to stop it. What happened to me, doc? Where did my humanity go?
Sarah freezes, horrified by what she’s hearing. However, this doesn’t deter her as she is actually making progress with Slade. More than she had before.
Sarah Green: We all make mistakes Slade, we just have to make sure we don’t make mistakes we can’t return from. I want you to think real hard about what you’re telling me. Something tells me you already know the right thing to do here.
Slade shrugs.
Slade Castle: Even if I do, it’ll only do more harm than good at this point. I can’t turn back now. This is my breaking point though. I can’t get any deeper than this.
Sarah begins to notice a tear forming on Castle's face. She realizes that deep down, more than anything, the ruthless Slade Castle is scared.
The man watching through the camera sighs, frustrated with something.
??: I’m sorry Slade. I just need you to get a little farther. You’re so close.
After Fallout: Wired Actions
Medical personnel pull Slade and Julius from the wreckage under the stage, trying to make sure to separate them both before they recover. Both men begin to get up as they are being pulled away. They attempt to fight the medics and security pulling them to their respective doctors. Neither appear strong enough to pull apart though.
Slade Castle: I’m not done with you Julie, you hear me bitch?
Slade is barely able to muster out his words. Julius responds, equally weakened by the fall.
Julius Fairweather: Loud and clear, motherfucker. Don’t keep me waiting.
As Slade gets pulled aside he begins speaking to one of the staff members helping him to the doctor’s room.
Slade Castle: So… did we win?
Slade continues to breathe heavily, wincing with every step they take.
Staff member: You mean True Society? Yeah, they won.
Slade Castle: Well, that’s good I suppose.
Eventually they make it back to the doctor and drop Slade onto the table. The doctor walks over and takes a look at Slade, who’s just trying his best to stay conscious.
Doctor: What the hell? When was the last time you were seen by a doctor? You are beat to shit, and this is certainly not all from that fall.
Slade Castle: It may have been a few weeks.
The doctor runs a few tests and examines Slade. As he goes across, Slade’s entire body is covered in bruises, his shoulder has been dislocated and his hands are still covered in cuts and scars from the Purge.
Doctor: Damn, I’m not sure I can have you cleared by Wired Consequences.
Slade reaches up and grabs the doctor. He pulls him in by the shoulder.
Slade Castle: Doc, this ain’t a matter of if I’m cleared, got it? I’ll be good by Wired Consequences. So why don’t you do what you can and let me be on my way, yeah?
The doctor does little in the way of protesting Slade’s decision and sets his shoulder back in place before cleaning some of Slade's old cuts, stitching up new ones, and prescribing him some pain meds for the swelling and bruises.
Doctor: Alright, you’re good to go Mr. Castle.
Slade Castle: God I hate when people call me that.
Slade gets up from the bed and nearly falls over before regaining his balance and making his way out of the arena.
At Rock Johnson’s Funeral in Los Angeles
Castle takes a few big steps forward, ignoring Arik Holt’s hand as he reaches out in an attempt to calm him.
JULIUS FAIRWEATHER: Hell yeah! Let’s do this shit right here and now!
Julius begins to loosen the tie around his neck, but Slade suddenly charges forward to tackle the bad motherfucker off his feet. Continuing the brawl that began on Fallout, Julius and Slade tumble across the stage, taking out the podium and several floral arrangements. The two men roll toward the back of the stage as they throw punches in an attempt to get an advantage over each other. Even the priest is not safe as Slade and Julius get to their feet and Castle ducks underneath a right cross from Fairweather. The punch knocks the holy man out cold before Castle tackles Julius a second time, sending both men into the open grave on top of Rock Johnson’s closed casket. Finally, a mix of Project: Honor officials and competitors rush forward to stop the brawl and remove the two men from Johnson’s grave as the footage reaches its conclusion…
Moments after…
Slade and Julius are loaded into separate cop cars as they are taken to the Los Angeles County Jail to be processed.
They both go through standard procedure before being locked into their cells, which happen to be directly across from one another. They both glare daggers at the other without saying a word. This lasts for nearly an hour. Finally, Julius takes a few steps toward the door.
Julius Fairweather: I hope you realize this shit’s your fault. I was perfectly fine letting this shit wait while we were at the bossman's funeral.
Slade stands up and approaches his door as well.
Slade Castle: I’m not the guy who was using that funeral to call people out, now was I?
Julius Fairweather: I never said your name, now did I?
Slade Castle: You didn’t need to.
Julius grimaces at Slade who snorts back.
Slade Castle: You look a little upset there, Julie.
Julius Fairweather: YOU TRIED TO SHOOT MY DAMN EYE OUT, MOTHERFUCKER!
Officer: QUIET DOWN, GENTLEMEN!
An officer hollers to the men from down the hall. Slade raises his hands.
Slade Castle: Nothing personal, Julie. Just happened in the heat of the moment.
Julius Fairweather: It felt pretty damn personal to me.
Both men go silent for a moment while the rest of the jailhouse remains noisy enough on its own.
Slade Castle: No more bullshit, Julie. We settle this at Wired Consequences.
Julius notices the grin that appears on Slade’s face as he speaks those words.
Julius Fairweather: Uh-huh, what the fuck is that grin about? What kind of shit you got planned in that misguided head of yours now huh?
Slade Castle: Just remember, Julie, my beef was never meant to be with you. You just got caught in the crossfire joining that little shit Petey.
Julius Fairweather: That little shit is my tag team partner and champion. You ain’t taking that away from me. Besides, why the hell did you join those freaks anyway, Slade? I thought, at least for a moment, that you’d be better than that.
Slade Castle: We all got our reasons for doing what we do, don’t we Julius?
The officers come by and begin to unlock Julius’ cell to release him. As Slade gets ready to exit the officer turns to him.
Officer: Not you, just Julius. Multiple eyewitnesses determined that you initiated the confrontation.
Julius smirks and looks back.
Julius Fairweather: Told you so…
Julius begins to walk away a free man while Slade sits in his cell, frustrated, waiting for his release which wouldn’t come for many hours yet. Finally, an officer approaches the cell and unlocks it.
Officer: Arik Holt sends his regards. I suggest this doesn’t happen again.
Slade walks out of the cell and retrieves his things. He looks over to Julius' empty cell.
Slade Castle: Yeah, best to not be on Julie's bad side huh? Wouldn’t wanna be the poor sucker having to deal with him all the time.
Slade smiles at the officer and then leaves the station.
Present in New York City, New York
The camera opens to Slade on the balcony from his hotel room leaning on the railing and looking out over the city. He has the Noble Championship resting on his shoulder as he watches the people below. Slade wipes his hand across his face before resting it back on his head.
Slade Castle: Arik really made sure my work was cut out for me didn't he? There wasn't one person to be granted a Noble Championship shot at Purge. Not two, not three, but four lucky winners to get a shot… at this.
Slade grabs one of the straps and holds his Noble championship up to the camera. Slade brings the title back over his shoulder and continues.
Slade Castle: I’m not gonna lie to you. I’ve had a pretty shit few weeks so y’all better not be expecting any mercy. Bishop already got a taste of what's coming to him, Savannah already knows she can’t beat me, this Alyssa person doesn’t have the spine to do what it takes to keep me down, and despite being my “teammate”...
Slade air quotes the word teammate to the camera before turning back to the city.
Slade Castle: Billy will get no mercy from me. I’m fine with staying out of her way as long as she stays out of mine, but if she thinks for a second this belt is coming home with her, she's got another thing coming. This curse is mine to bear for now and I’m not ready to move on. Before that can even happen though, I have the wonder duo to deal with. Petey and Julius, The Motherfuckers. Don’t worry, I’m coming prepared. My partner is sure to make quite the splash. I hope you’re both ready. Especially you Julius, this ones just for you.
Slade winks to the camera with a toothy grin on his face.
Slade Castle: Whether or not I can trust my fellow True Society members is no longer a part of the question. The question is more, which True Society member can I trust the most. I thought about this little notion for a while and I couldn’t really decide. There is one member that sticks out as a man I’m sure could get the job done. He is a busy guy though and whether he has the time to kick it in the tag division is debatable. Either way I began to think outside of True Society as well. Could be a good way to induct new members after all. Who doesn’t want a free title shot? Hell, maybe even one of those Big Drip goons would want a shot. Then I thought a little deeper. This could be a hell of a way to cause some chaos. After all, what does True Society cause more of than chaos. Not much. Arik Holt may not approve of my choice in tag partner but he can suck my dick. I may work for him, but it’s clear he isn’t my friend, and to be honest, none of us joined True Society to be friends. So Julius? Petey? I hope you’re ready for some fun. I know I will take a little extra pleasure in this match than I do in most. Especially once Petey’s hopes and dreams for Big Drip and The Motherfuckers are crushed once and for all.
Slade brushes off the Noble title and stares at the shine of the moonlight bouncing off the title.
Slade Castle: You know, holding this title has grown on me. It might actually be nice to hold two at the end of the night. In order for that to happen I’m going to have to dismantle each and every one of my opponents at Wired Consequences. It would help if I knew exactly what kind of match it may be but I’ll win all the same.
Slade takes a few steps back and reaches into the pocket of his heavy winter jacket. He pulls out four photographs, one of each of his opponents and lines them up. At the top of the stack is Savannah.
Slade Castle: Savannah Sunshine. How many times do I got to see your stupid whiny face? Can’t you just leave me alone? Have I not done enough damage? How bad do I have to hurt you for you to realize you're in the ring with the wrong man? You see Savannah, I don’t give a fuck about your relationship with Holt anymore. I just want you gone. If I have to beat you and your little demon inside…
Slade turns and mockingly waves to the camera.
Slade Castle: …I’ll make sure I kill the bitch for you. Then maybe after doing you a solid and beating up your little demons I won’t have to see you anymore.
Slade without turning away from the camera throws the picture of Savannah off the balcony revealing Alyssa underneath.
Slade Castle: Looks here like we got some fresh blood. Alyssa Grace. You came at a bad time. I get it, you're new, you want to make a name for yourself. This ain’t the way to do it. Pissing off a man who, at this point, has nothing more to gain, and nothing more to lose is not something you should be doing. You got a taste of the violence at Purge but I prefer to fight my fights a different way. I will come at you and you can throw whatever shot you want at me. I'll make sure it’ll be the last thing you do. You seem like an alright person, and I want to give you a chance. Don’t try me. I won’t give you another.
Slade throws the picture of Alyssa off the balcony revealing Bishop under hers.
Slade Castle: Now here’s a guy I know is coming in looking for a fight. Well you want one with me Bishop? You fucking got it. I’ll admit you put up a bit of a fight at Purge, but, who here ended up on top? Oh yeah, that’s right… I did. So it’s time to repeat history once again and prove without a shadow of a doubt that you just can’t step up to me. I like how you fight, so do me a favor and don’t hold your punches tough guy. I know I won’t be. Every punch I throw is swinging for the fences and I’m not done till I’ve taken each and every one of your heads off, especially you.
Slade throws Bishop's photo off the balcony like the others leaving only one remaining in his hands. Billy Bennet.
Slade Castle: Billy, I’m gonna make you an offer here. You can show up. You can fight to your heart's content. Don’t come after me. If you don’t want me to hurt you then why don’t we just work together to make sure none of these assholes get the title, yeah? We can settle this when it’s just down to us or another time. Let’s be real honest here. You won’t beat me if you try. Ture Society has got to come out on top here so if you screw this up, none of us will be pleased I can assure you.
Slade dangles Billy’s photo from the ledge not quite dropping it, showing how he’s giving her a chance.
Slade Castle: Hypothetically though, let’s say you do come after me. There’s just gonna be one less member of True Society when I end your career then and there, got it?
Slade then drops the photo and watches it as it drifts downward to join the others. Slade stands up no longer leaning on the rail and turns to fully face the camera.
Slade Castle: This is my night. Nothing can take this away from me. I don’t care what kind of bullshit I have to go through to get there but I’m leaving with my titles. By the end of the night I just want everyone to know one thing. You can’t stop me, and you can’t stop True Society, it’s just too far gone now. Wired Consequences II is not just gonna be known as the show that True Society owns, it’ll be known as the show that put Slade Castle on every motherfuckers radar. I’m not hiding. Anyone and everyone can have a piece. I’m fucking ready.
Slade turns and begins walking inside and is half way through the door when he stops. He quickly turns and grabs the camera out of the cameraman's hands. The camera unsteadily spins temporarily showing the now cowering camera operator before going back to Slade’s face now uncomfortably close. The derangement, clearly visible in his eyes.
Slade Castle: I’ll see you all in hell.
Slade throws the camera from the balcony. We see a fast moving image of the city as it plummets, ultimately with the picture going black as it hits the ground.
