[The onlookers in the arena are all cheering and yelling in anticipation of the final round between Jerry and Croc. Too bad they're all gonna be disappointed when Asher steps out. In the commentary booth, Bradley sits quietly minding his own business reading through some notes. He flips through a few pages.]
Bradley: Hmmm... I wonder if coffee and cocaine will keep me awake longer or just flat-out kill me. Eh, win-win.
[The door to the commenter booth opens up. Bradley turns around and sees his brother Bentley walk inside holding two mugs.]
Bentley: I'm back!
Bradley: (Muttering) Sadly...
[Bentley walks over to the desk he was sitting at before and takes a seat next to Bradley. He places one mug in front of himself and places the other next to his brother.]
Bradley: (Quietly) Thanks...
Bentley: No problem!
Bradley: Mmm...
[Bentley looks out of the commentator both down at the fight ring.]
Bentley: The fight still hasn't started yet?
[Bradley rubs his forehead and groans.]
Bradley: *Groan* No. And I haven't a fucking clue why! I wish they would hurry the hell up and start! I want to go home and go to sleep!
Bentley: If you want to sleep later, why are you drinking coffee? That's just going to keep you awake.
[Bradley takes a sip of his coffee.]
Bradley: *Sip* Because drinking coffee is the only thing that helps me get over my recurring crippling anxiety.
[Bentley sits there silently and looks at his brother concerned. Bradley just takes another sip of his coffee as he notices his brother looking at him.]
Bradley: What?
Bentley: Urhm... Are you alright Brad?
[Bradley looks back down at the arena.]
Bradley: *Deep Exhale* Never been better...
Bentley: I- Alright. If you say so...
[The two pick up their notes and proceed to look through them. A few seconds later, the door to the commenter booth opens and a Suited Demon, much like the ones who seem to work here, pops his head in and talks to the two brothers.]
Suited Demon: The Ref says the next round is about to start.
Bradley: Finally!
Suited Demon: Yea... But there's uhhh- there have been some complications regarding the fight.
[Bentley turns to look at the Suited Demon.]
Bentley: What kind of complications?
Suited Demon: The kind that needs to be delivered to you verbally. So get ready for another guy coming up here soon.
Bentley: Understood!
[Bentley gives the Suited Demon a thumbs up while Bradley flicks him off without looking at him.]
Suited Demon: Asshole...
[The Suited Demon leaves the room and closes the door. Bentley turns around and puts his notes down and looks at his brother.]
Bentley: Do you think we should start now or wait for the note?
Bradley: Now.
Bentley: But what if we've made some sort of mistake?
Bradley: Eh, we'll wing it.
[The two anchormen place a hand on their microphones and press a button on them, turning them back on.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Welcome back everyone! The final round of the final match will be starting soon. So get ready to-
Bradley: (Through Speakers) -WATCH THE GREATEST FIGHT IN YOUR ENTIRE DAMN AFTERLIFE!!!
[The crowd which has reformed back inside the arena start yelling and cheering as they did before. Bradley seems to be amped up again as he is standing up with his foot on the desk and yelling. Bentley seems a bit surprised by his brother's sudden change in mood. He shakes his head and coughs.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) *Cough* *Cough* Personally the greatest fight of my afterlife would be between two top-tier Overlords. But hey, you might not live that long to see something like that, sooooooo- Enjoy the fight folks!
[The crowd continues to cheer, only increasing the amount of noise being produced. The spotlights in the room all point toward the center of the ring.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) And here comes our number one champion in the heavyweight class-
Bradley: (Through Speakers) CROCCO LEATHERHEAD!!! WOOOOOOHHHHOOOOOO!!!
[The spotlights all point directly at Croc who's making his way towards the ring. He moves the chains aside and steps inside the ring. He then hits his chest with both of his fists as he did at the beginning of the second round. The crowd cheers him on as he makes his way to the center of the ring and stops walking. The Referee Demon from earlier moves some chains aside and enters the ring as well. He walks over towards Croc and looks at the opposite side of the ring. He stares at the area for a few seconds before looking around the ring confused. Croc looks confused as well.]
Croc: Where the hell is he? Where's Warner?
Referee Demon: Hell if I know.
Croc: Isn't it your job to know?
Referee Demon: Are you my boss?
Croc: No.
Referee Demon: Then mind your own damn business gator breath.
[Croc glares at the Referee Demon.]
Croc: Fine. Shouldn't you at least wait outside of the ring until both fighters are present?
Referee Demon: I don't fucking know! Yea I guess.
Croc: Then get the hell out of the ring.
Referee Demon: Like I already said! You're not my damn boss!
Croc: *Annoyed Growl* Geeehhh...
[Back in the commentator booth, both Bradley and Bentley stare at the ring below. After a few short seconds Bradley doesn't seem as amped up anymore and Bentley is sitting there confused.]
Bradley: Ehhh... I don't see Warner anywhere...
Bentley: Perhaps his tardiness has to do with the complications the fellow from earlier mentioned.
[Bradley takes his foot off of the desk.]
Bradley: Really? Huh. Are you sure? Maybe he said something else. Like someone left their cab lights on or something along that line.
Bentley: No, no, he did say the next round was about to start and there were some complications. (Quietly) Maybe there's something in our notes?
Bradley: Then what the hell is going on? Where the hell is Warner?
Bentley: *Shuffles Through Notes* I- I uhh- *Shuffles Through More Notes* I don't know.
[Bradley sits back down in his chair. He picks up his notes and starts to look through them as well.]
Bradley: THEN WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON!?!?
[The door to the commentator booth opens. A different Suited Demon walks inside.]
Bentley: I'm uhhh- *Shuffles Through Notes* I'm not too sure...
[The Suited Demon walks over to Bentley and bends his head down a bit.]
Bentley: Erh... I'm going to go and-
[The Suited Demon whispers something to Bentley. Bradley doesn't seem to notice the Suited Demon in the room.]
Suited Demon: *Whispering to Bentley*
Bentley: Pardon?
Suited Demon: *Whispering to Bentley*
Bentley: Ah. I see. But what about-
Suited Demon: *Whispering to Bentley*
Bentley: Ohhh... Ohhhhhhhh... Oh, dear...
Suited Demon: Yea... Tell me about it...
[The Suited Demon places a piece of paper on the desk beside Bentley. He then stands up and walks over to the door.]
Suited Demon: Good luck, you're gonna need it to get through this shit.
Bradley: Eh?
[The Suited Demon opens the door and leaves the commentator booth.]
Bradley: Who the hell was that?
Bentley: Uhhh... Brad?
Bradley: What?
[Bentley turns his microphone off and leans over towards his brother. He begins to whisper something into his brother's ear.]
Bentley: *Whispering To Bradley*
Bradley: What do you mean Warner can't fight Croc in the third round?
Bentley: *Whispering To Bradley*
Bradley: What do you mean they're gonna put in a first-timer to take Warner's place?
Bentley: *Whispering To Bradley*
Bradley: What do you mean he's in the lightweight class and won't last more than ten seconds against Croc?
[Bradley then lets out a sigh and continues to whisper to his brother.]
Bentley: *Disappointed Sigh* *Whispering To Bradley*
Bradley: What do you mean I shouldn't be repeating exactly what you're saying to me into the microphone so that the entire arena won't hear it?
[Bradley stays silent for a few seconds. His eyes widen a bit.]
Bradley: Oh...
[His microphone was still on during their entire conversation.]
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Whoops...
[The crowd in the arena was completely silent during the entire conversation. But now that it's all over, the crowd starts talking once again filling up the arena with noise. The noise the crowd is creating seems angrier and pissed off than excited. Croc glares at the commentator booth.]
Croc: (In Head) He can't fight me in the third round and they're putting a new guy to fill in his place? Where the hell is this going?
[The crowd continues to angrily talk amongst themselves. Bentley turns his microphone back on.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Now, now everyone! Ehhh- I'm sure the fight will still go wonderfully!
[Bradley rests his head on his hand.]
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Goddamnit... Ehh- Alright... So uh- If Warner's out, then who the hell is fighting Croc? Or can I go home?
Bentley: (Through Speakers) It's uhhh- Oh! Right here!
[Bentley picks up the piece of paper the Suited Demon left on the table before he left.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Hmm... Apparently... In Warner's place, a demon named Asher Burns will be fighting Croc. Hm... Never heard of him before.
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Alright then! WHERE THE HELL IS HE!?!?
[All the spotlights in the arena direct their attention opposite to where Croc entered the arena. The spotlights all light up a demon standing outside of the ring looking at the ground in front of them. The demon stands tall, with ash-colored skin and black hair. They have a few scars across their chest which are all very noticeable in the light, however, their most noticeable accessory is the gas mask on their face. It's Asher. And he seems to be all ready for the fight.]
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Oh... There he is...
[Asher looks up towards the center of the ring where Croc is standing. He and Croc both exchange glares.]
Asher: (In Head) Hm... I can already tell that one of us is going to get hurt tremendously during this fight ... Ah, who am I kidding? It's gonna be ♫me♫! HA!
[Asher smiles underneath his mask. He starts to walk forward towards the chains at the side of the ring. The crowd, now getting a good look at him, start yelling. But they mainly seem to be booing at him.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Yikes. The crowd does not seem to be happy in the slightest...
Bradley: (Through Speakers) I don't blame 'em. Look at this guy!
[Asher moves some of the chains aside and steps into the ring.]
Bradley: (Through Speakers) He's got nothing compared to Leatherhead! He won't even last thirty seconds in the ring! Sure he might be a bit tall, but compared to the top ringers he's got nothing! Not much muscle either!
[Asher makes his way in front of Croc. He has to look up to see his face just like he does for Jerry. The two continue to glare at each other.]
Bradley: (Through Speakers) And that ugly ass scar on his back! Ha! I wonder where he got something like that from?
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Who knows. Chances are he pissed off the wrong Demon.
[Asher lifts up his right hand and flips off Bradley and Bentley without looking away from Croc.]
Bradley: (Through Speakers) OOOHHHH!!! THIS ONE'S GOT A FIRE GOING IN HIM!!!
[Asher lowers his hand and continues to glare at Croc.]
Asher: So... You're uhhh... Much bigger up close...
[Croc continues to glare at Asher not speaking a word.]
Asher: *Awkward Chuckle* Yea, yea, I know. Said the actress to the bishop... You and I have heard that a lot right!?
[Croc remains silent.]
Asher: Right?
[Croc slowly bends down so he can get his head closer to Asher.]
Croc: I'm going to rip you in half...
[Asher stands up a bit more so he can get closer to Croc's face.]
Asher: (Whispering) ♫Said the actress to the bishop.♫
Referee Demon: Can you two shut the hell up so we can start this shit!
[The two move their head away from each other and stand up straight. The Referee Demon turns around and starts talking with someone outside the ring. Meanwhile, Bradley and Bentley begin to talk into their microphones.]
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Hmmmm...
Bentley: (Through Speakers) What's the matter, Brad? Interested in the fight after all?
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Uhh- No not really... But I feel like I've seen this Asher guy before...
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Really? From where?
Bradley: (Through Speakers) I'm not sure... Maybe it's from when- No that was a dog... Hmmmmm... Oh! OHHHHH! I know where I've seen this guy before!
Bentley: (Through Speakers) You do?
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Yea! He's that homeless guy I gave some fake bills to a few months ago!
[The crowd's angry yelling and boos seem to stop momentarily as it's turned into laughter. Directly at Asher. The Referee Demon points and laughs at him as well. Croc doesn't seem to laugh but makes a silent chuckle. Asher smiles under his gas mask and chuckles to himself. He slowly shakes his head.]
Asher: (In Head) *Chuckles* Heh-heh-heh-heh-heh... Ohhhhhhhhh- I'm going to burn this city to the ground...
Bentley: (Through Speakers) You gave a homeless guy money?
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Sour cash but yes, I did. It was before we aired on our first day as anchors on the 666 News.
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Hmm. Interesting.
[The crowd's laughter continues, but most of it turns back into angry yelling and boos.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Sooooo- Should we introduce this guy or-
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Might as well.
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Alright!
[Bentley looks at the piece of paper he found Asher's name on.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Warner's replacement's name is Asher Burns! Aaaaaannnnnnnddd- That's all the note says about him!
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Really? That's it?
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Afraid so.
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Hmm. Maybe there are some more notes written on there in invisible ink.
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Urhm... I don't think invisible ink exists Brad.
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Then it must be some damn good invisible ink
Bentley: (Through Speakers) I- *Sigh* Good point.
[The Referee Demon finally stops laughing at Asher and looks at both him and Croc.]
Referee Demon: *Laughing* Hehehh, hehhhhhhhhhhhhh... That's fucking hilarious. *Cough* *Cough* Alright you two let's get this shit over with! Listen here, new guy!
[Asher looks at the Referee Demon.]
Referee Demon: Since this is your first fight I'll explain to you how tiebreaker rounds work. First, one to go limp or tap out loses the round, and the last demon standing wins.
Asher: I already know that asshole! What's the tiebreaker round?
Referee Demon: I was getting to that you dick! There's a five-minute timer for the tiebreaker rounds. When the timer rings, the fight ends. If both of the fighters are still standing by the end of the five-minute round then the one least close to death wins by default.
Asher: Least close to dea- How the hell do you figure that out?
Referee Demon: We take turns punching each other in the face until one of us taps out or dies.
Asher: That sounds, uhhhh... Interesting...
Croc: It's actually kinda fun. Sometimes I even look forward to it.
Asher: How many times have you gotten to a tie-breaker punchout?
Croc: Twice. Once with the imp and another with some other guy who kicked it after the first punch.
Asher: Ooooookkk... So in short... I'm going to lose this fight regardless... And possibly die again if the timer runs out.
Referee Demon/Croc: Yep.
Asher: Crap.
[Asher closes his eyes and thinks to himself.]
Asher: (In Head) Well then... I wasn't sure if there was a time limit or not, guess there is... Originally, I planned to run the clock out and hopefully end the fight with a tie... But I guess that's no longer an option since I'll be getting the shit beaten out of me regardless...
[Asher opens his eyes and looks up at Croc.]
Asher: (In Head) Which means... I either knock this guy out or force him to tap out before the round ends... Or- Alternatively- Bend over and accept my death. *Chuckles* Again. Heh...
[Asher looks at the Referee Demon.]
Asher: By the way... You seem pretty doubtful of my chances of success. Aren't you supposed to be neutral when it comes to the two of us? Ya know. Make the fight fair?
[The Referee Demon chuckles.]
Referee Demon: *Chuckles* Nah, fuck both of you! You're both assholes.
[Croc quietly chuckles.]
Croc: *Quiet Chuckle*
[The three stand there motionless momentarily. Then out of nowhere Croc, in only a second, punches the Referee Demon and sends him flying out of the ring. A loud crash can be heard as the Referee Demon hits the wall creating a large cloud of dirt and presumably creating a hole in it. Asher stands still with his eyes wide. He looks over to where the Ref landed as Croc continues to glare at him.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Aaaaaaaannnndddd- There goes another ref...
Asher: Jesus Christ! Is that guy dead?
Croc: Nah, he's fine.
Random Background Demon: Holy crap he's dead!
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Is that the twenty-eighth or twenty-ninth referee Corc has killed in the ring?
Bentley: (Through Speakers) *Click* This would be number thirty...
Bradley: (Through Speakers) When was twenty-eight and twenty-nine?
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Last month aaaaaaaannnnndddddd- yesterday.
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Ah.
Croc: Ok, maybe he's dead.
Asher: *Click* Well shit...
[Asher looks back at Croc.]
Asher: So... I guess that means we start when we're ready then, right?
Croc: Mmhmm...
Asher: Alrighty then...
[Asher puts his right fist forward towards Croc. Croc bumps Asher's fist with his right hand. They both pull back and do the same with their left hands. He and Croc then pull back their hands and send both of their fists forward to meet in the middle. They both bump and pull their fists back. They then look each other directly in the eyes and nod. Asher and Croc both turn around and walk to where they entered the ring. They both then turn around and put their fists up in front of them and assume a fighting stance.]
Asher: (In Head) Ok Asher... You can do this. You've fought big demons before! (Pause) Then again, you did lose every single fight to those dicks so... Shit!
[Asher closes his eyes and takes a slow deep breath. He breathes slowly as the world seems to slow down around him.]
Asher: (In Head) *Slow Deep Breath* No, don't panic. This is nothing compared to the shit I went through when I was alive... Then there's all the shit I'm going to be dealing with going through my new life in hell... I just know deep down that things are going to be getting hundreds of times worse before they even get close to being better. And this...
[Asher opens his eyes and looks across from himself. He sees Croc standing at the opposite of the arena all ready to fight.]
Asher: (In Head) Well- This is going to be nothing compared to the shit I'll be putting up with in the future.
[Meanwhile, across from the commenter both in what seems to be a private booth, Leo watches the fight about to begin with interest. He scratches his chin as he blows some smoke out of his mouth from his cigar. The door to the private booth opens up as a Suited Demon walks inside. He holds the door open so that Jerry can walk inside the booth. He has the sling Asher made for him earlier on his left arm.]
Jerry: You uhh- Wanted to see me, sir?
Leo: Yes.
[Leo faces Jerry as the Suited Demon closes the door and stands in front of it with his arms crossed behind his back.]
Leo: I'm assuming you're going to want to watch your friends fight. So I believe it would be best that you'd get a good view.
[He gestures to his left.]
Leo: Come, join me.
Jerry: Uhhh... Sure.
[Jerry nervously walks up to the edge of the booth and stands beside Leo. He looks down at the ring and sees Asher all ready to fight Croc. He stares nervously at Asher.]
Jerry: (In Head) Dammit Asher... Why couldn't you have stayed at the workshop?
Leo: Worried?
[Jerry looks at Leo momentarily. He's still staring at the ring below.]
Jerry: I... Well uh- I mean yeah, I guess I'm a bit worried. I mean- he's going up against Croc after all. The number one fighter is about to rip a guy who barely has any fighting experience in half.
[He looks worryingly at Asher.]
Jerry: And all I can do is stand here and watch...
Leo: You seem to care an awful lot about this Mr. Burns. You two appear to have a friendly relationship. Have you known each other for a while?
Jerry: No- actually... He's a sinner who died about nine months ago. I met him after his first six months of being in hell. He helped me out when I was getting jumped by some of Jockey's lackeys.
Leo: *Annoyed Groan* Don't get me started on that pipsqueak. He's constantly a pain in everyone's ass... Someone should do us all a favor and put a bullet in his head. Cross him off of the list of assholes that plague this city.
Jerry: *Chuckles* Asher has been saying that he's going to do that for a while now. He hasn't done anything yet to back up his threats yet, but he does have an unbelievable hate for Jockey. I feel like one day he might actually do it.
Leo: Good. Now- Back to you and Mr. Burns. You've known him for a few months now, correct?
Jerry: Yeah. He's been working and living at my workshop, helping me move shit around and fill out orders.
Leo: Ah yes, It occasionally slips my mind that you supply the city with some fine weaponry.
Jerry: Mmm. He's a bit of a pain sometimes but he's genuinely been a great help around the workshop. I've only seen him fight once, and while he seemed better-than-average at it I don't think Croc is a fight he can win...
Leo: Do you not have confidence in your friend?
Jerry: Uh- well...
[Jerry scratches the back of his head with his right hand.]
Jerry: He's cocky and a bit of an idiot but he's proven to be somewhat competent at times. Sure, he's had his moments... But uhhh- I can count how many times he's been smart with only my good hand... In all honesty, he's only as dumb as he lets on to be.
Leo: So he's hiding his intelligence on purpose? Have you seen this intelligent side of his?
Jerry: *Laughs* HAHAHA! Nope! Heh-heh... No, but uhhh- He's proven himself to be pretty resourceful on a few occasions.
Leo: How so?
Jerry: Urhm- You know that weird gang of crows that have been terrorizing the city recently? He pissed those things off and managed to survive getting attacked by them. Twice mind you.
Leo: Really now? I've heard that those crows are incredibly treacherous. How did your friend manage to do that twice?
Jerry: Beets me. But he did it. He's either incredibly lucky or a secret genius.
Leo: Judging by what you've told me so far, I believe he's incredibly lucky.
Jerry: Yeah, hopefully, his luck will stay with him during this fight.
Leo: You can only hope...
???: Sir.
[A voice can be heard from behind Jerry and Leo. They turn around and see the Suited Demon form before standing behind them with a notepad.]
Suited Demon: Your wager?
Leo: Ah, yes...
[Leo turns back around and stares at the ring. He narrows his eyes. After blowing some smoke out of his mouth he turns around and looks at the Suited Demon.]
Leo: Two minutes, on the dot.
Jerry: Huh?
Suited Demon: Very good sir.
[The Suited Demon writes something down on the notepad. He then places it into his suit and walks towards the door in the booth. He opens it and leaves the room. Jerry looks at Leo a bit confused.]
Jerry: What was that all about?
Leo: That my friend, was my wager for the final round of the night.
Jerry: What?! You don't mean the final round of this fight? Do you?
Leo: Yes. What other fight would I be betting on?
Jerry: I- I don't know! Any other fight but this one? I don't mean to be rude sir, but if you're betting on Asher in the attempt to up my confidence in his chances of survival, I'm flattered but wouldn't recommend it.
Leo: Relax, Mr. Warner. I'm not betting on your friend because of you. I only bet on when the fight would end, not who would win.
Jerry: I understand that sir, but you bet on the fight lasting two minutes on the dot!
Leo: So? What's wrong with that?
Jerry: With all due respect sir, It's a very precise bet. An incredible gamble on something that needs to be exact.
Leo: So what if it has to be exact? I've taken far riskier bets before...
[He rubs the scar on his right eye.]
Leo: Sure, I've lost a few...
[Leo then looks at the ring confidently. His gaze stops directly on Asher.]
Leo: But I've won far more...
[Jerry looks down at the ring as well. He looks at Asher and lets out a nervous groan.]
Jerry: *Nervous Groan* (Quietly) What are you planning Asher...
[Back in the ring. Asher stands there quietly ready to fight at a moment's notice. He stands there motionless, glaring directly at Croc. The two seem to be in a tense staredown. Neither showing any signs of looking away. Then, out of nowhere-]
*DING*
[A loud ding comes from a bell near the commenter booth. The final round begins.]
Bradley/Bentley: (Through Speakers) HERE WE GO!!!/Here we go!
[Within a second of the bell ding, Croc makes a mad dash towards Asher with his fists up ready to beat the ever-living shit out of him. Asher stands completely still with his fists up.]
Asher: (In Head) Okay, there's a giant ass crocodile demon running directly at me at the speed of a train. What's the plan?
Asher's Conscience: (In Head) Run.
Asher: (In Head) Good plan, glad I thought of it.
[Before Croc can get any closer to him, Asher quickly bolts it to his right and starts running along the edge of the ring away from him.]
Croc: (In Head) *Groan* Why am I not surprised.
Bradley: (Through Speakers) THE FIGHT JUST STARTED, AND IT SEEMS BURNS IS MAKING A RUN FOR IT!!! HAHAHAHA!!!
Bentley: (Through Speakers) But where exactly is he running?
Bradley: (Through Speakers) IT DOESN'T REALLY MATTER BEN!!! EITHER WAY, HE'S FUCKED!!!
[The crowd starts booing, not seeming to like the fact that Asher is avoiding Croc. Croc pursues Asher around the ring at a rapid pace. Jerry and Leo blankly stare at Asher.]
Jerry: (In Head) Why do I feel like I should have seen this coming...
Leo: Hmmm...
Asher: *Annoyed Groan* Grrr...
[Suddenly Asher stops running. He turns and faces the crowd with an angry glare and flips them off.]
Asher: Your boos mean nothing, assholes! I've already seen what makes you bastards cheer!
[As soon as Asher finishes his sentence, Croc is right beside him with his right fist reeled back ready to punch him in the face. Asher sees him out of the corner of his eyes. He sighs.]
Asher: (In Head) *Sigh* Alright... Croc might be big and tough, but he's predictable as hell.
[Croc punches forward towards Asher, but before he can land his attack Asher leans back and rolls backwards, narrowly avoiding the attack. Croc watches him roll back, a bit surprised that he was able to react quickly enough to dodge the attack. Bradley and Bentley seem surprised as well.]
Bradley: (Through Speakers) FIRST PUNCH OF THE MATCH COMES FROM CROC! AND HE COMPLETELY BLOWS IT!!!
Bentley: (Through Speakers) I didn't see that coming! And judging by Croc's reaction-
[Croc lowers his right fist and stands up straight as he looks at Asher. Asher is lying down on his side resting his head on his arm. He is without a doubt smiling under his mask.]
Bradley: (Through Speakers) He didn't either!
[Asher stares at Croc through his gas mask. He tilts his head to the side a little bit.]
Asher: Surprised? Eh, so am I. I honestly did not expect to dodge that attack quickly enough.
[Croc dashes forward and raises both of his fists above himself. He slams them down to the ground in an attempt to crush Asher. However, Asher manages to lift himself up and roll away dodging Crocs' attack once again. Asher finishes his roll and stands up, he turns around and looks at Croc who still has both of his fists on the ground. Croc stands up straight and glares directly at Asher. He seems pissed. Asher is still giving him the same unimpressed expression as before.]
Asher: Alrighty... Now that you've finished your little fit, I think it's about time I tell you how screwed you just might be.
[Asher starts slowly walking to his side while keeping his eyes on Croc. Croc slowly walks to the side as well as he watches Asher. The two are now circling the ring as the fight continues.]
Asher: Now, I am in no way a competent fighter. Personally, I like to watch fights. However, because of this tendency of "liking to watch", I have observed you enough to understand exactly how you fight.
Croc: So that's it? You've got me all figured out huh?
Asher: Mostly figured out... I have no idea what you had for breakfast today and find I find what you do every second Thursday night of each month a bit weird-
Croc: What.
Asher: -But I believe I might just know enough to get the advantage on you and possibly win this fight. Just maybe...
Croc: Really now? Think you can do better than that imp from before?
Asher: First of all, that imp has a name. And secondly, that imp just so happens to be my quote-on-quote boss.
[There is a short pause from Asher.]
Asher: And part-time friend.
[Jerry places his right hand on his face and rubs his forehead.]
Jerry: (Quietly) Goddammit...
Croc: Warner's your boss? Ha! *Laughing* Hahaha!
[Croc stops walking and starts laughing. Asher stops walking as well and looks at Croc confused.]
Croc: *Laughing* Hahaha! Ohhh... If that's the case...
[Croc punches his fists together.]
Croc: Ripping you in half is going to be much more enjoyable.
[The two stand there silently for a few tense seconds. They're both so grasped by the fight itself that neither of them can hear the crowd yelling and cheering the fight on. A wide smile forms under Asher's mask.]
Asher: *Click* Said the actress to the bisho-
[But before Asher can finish his sentence, Croc runs at him full speed with his right fist raised in the air. He swings at Asher but he just barely manages to dodge the attack. Croc continues to swing at Asher to no avail as he barely dodges all of the incoming attacks. Asher continues to back step and Dodge all the attacks, leading Croc around the ring. Jerry, Leo, Bradley, Bentley, and the audience all watch the fight unfold. Judging by their reactions, none of them expected it to go like this.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Wow... Haven't seen something like this happen before... I also haven't seen Leatherhead miss that many punches.
Bradley: (Through Speakers) YOUR DAMN RIGHT!!! BURNS IS READING HIM LIKE A FUCKING BOOK MADE FOR CHILDREN!!!
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Which means?
Bradley: (Through Speakers) EASY AS HELL!!!
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Unless you're illiterate...
[Jerry and Leo comment on the fight as well.]
Leo: Hmmm... He's quite light on his feet...
Jerry: Yea... He's pretty nimble... I have a hard time dodging some of Croc's attacks, he's pretty quick for his size. I tend to block whatever I can't avoid.
Leo: Size isn't everything Mr. Warner. What your friend lacks in muscle and strength he seems to make up for in maneuverability and intelligence.
Jerry: Ehhhh... It's more like luck and clever wit in place of actual competent intelligence.
[Back in the fight, Asher continues to dodge Croc's punches. Just barely. There are multiple punches where Croc misses Asher by an inch, or just barely grazes him.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Yikes, how much longer do you think Burns can make Croc look like an idiot? Is he purposely trying to run the clock out?
Bradley: (Through Speakers) I HAVE NO IDEA!!! BUT IT'S PRETTY FUCKING FUNNY WATCHING CROC GET PLAYED LIKE A CHUMP!!! *Crazed Laughter* HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
[Asher continues to dodge all of Croc's attacks. He seems focused, completely enveloped in the fight.]
Bradley: (Through Speakers) HAHAHAHA! BUT CONSIDERING THAT ONLY A MINUTE HAS PASSED, I DON'T THINK IT WILL BE MUCH LONGER BE HE GETS WHAT'S COMING TO HIM!!!
Asher: (In Head) I've only been doing this for a minute!?!?
[He no longer seems focused, completely out of the zone. Croc swings at Asher with another punch. This time it hits. Asher takes the brunt of the impact on his chest. The force of the blow sends him flying across the ring and into the chains on the other side.]
*Clang*
[A loud clang noise can be heard as he hits the chains causing them to shake and rattle as he falls face-first to the ground. The crowd, after finally seeing somebody getting hurt, starts to cheer.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) A minute into the round and we finally get our first hit from Croc! Now, was it me, or did that look like it hurt more than usual?
Bradley: (Through Speakers) MAYBE IT DID!!! FOR ALL WE KNOW THAT COULD HAVE BEEN A COMPLETELY NORMAL PUNCH FROM CROC!!! BUT SINCE BURNS IS SO MUCH SMALLER THAN HIM, YOU CAN'T REALLY TELL!!!
[Asher lies motionless on the ground.]
Bradley: (Through Speakers) IT'S THE FIRST TIME IN A WHILE I'VE SEEN A LIGHTWEIGHT GET THROWN AROUND LIKE RAGDOLL BY SOMEONE THREE TIMES HIS SIZE.
[Asher fidgets around on the ground. He places his hands on the ground and gradually pushes himself up. Shaking the entire time. He looks to be in a ton of pain.]
Asher: (In Head) *Groan of Pain* Fucking hell... I felt like I just got hit by a car... Or a shotgun shot to the chest... Heh-heh...
[Asher pushes himself up a bit more but falls on his right arm.]
Asher: (In Head) Christ... My entire body fucking hurts like he- *Immense Pain* AAHHHH- FIGLIO DI PUTTANA! *Groan of Pain*
[Through all the immense pain and crowd cheering, Asher hears the sound of footsteps close to him. He looks to his left and sees Croc slowly making his way toward him. He grabs his gas mask with his left hand and places it around his neck. There's a little bit of blood dripping down from his forehead.]
Asher: (Quietly) Oh... You're still here? *Groan of Pain* Ugh, fucking hell...
[Asher attempts to stand up again. He gets on his knees and attempts to grab onto the chains of the ring. However, as he grabs onto the chains he slips and falls.]
*Snap*
[A loud snapping noise can be heard close by. Asher is once again lying on the ground with his eyes closed. He painfully opens his eyes and looks at his surroundings.]
Asher: (Quietly) *Groan of Pain* Fuck... What the hell was that-
[As Asher takes in his surroundings he notices something odd. One of the chains surrounding the ring is broken. It seems to have snapped in half when he grabbed onto it with his right hand. Asher attempts to stand up once again. This time he can make it to his feet. However, he's slouched over and has his right hand behind his back. He looks beat. Literally. Get it?]
Croc: Huh. I'm surprised you're still conscious. Frankly, I'm more surprised you're still alive.
[Croc stops walking. He's standing fifteen feet away from Asher. Asher seems to be breathing heavily and appears ready to throw in the towel after only taking one hit.]
Croc: I'm pretty sure if I hit you straight in the head you'd be dead. If you're lucky enough I would have just smashed that dumb mask into pieces and only given you a minor concussion.
[Croc cracks his knuckles. Asher lets out a pained grunt and seems to stumble a little. He then shakes his head and takes a deep breath.]
Asher: *Pained Grunt* Yea... I'm pretty lucky... But so is the audience! If those chains weren't there I'd probably have slammed into them and possibly killed a few of 'em! *Chuckles*
[Asher smiles and chuckles.]
Asher: But let's be honest, that wouldn't be something to laugh at! *Laughs* Hahahaha!
Croc: Hmmm... Looks like I knocked a few screws loose...
[Croc then cracks his neck up and winds up his right fist.]
Croc: You've got nowhere to run, and you look like you'll fall over even if I just poke ya.
[Croc stops winding up his right fist and punches both of his fists together.]
Croc: Got anything else witty to say before I bash your skull open?
[Asher's smile turns into a smirk. He looks at the ground in front of him for a second before looking back at Croc.]
Asher: Mmm... Don't underestimate the little guy...
Croc: Uh-huh, right.
[Croc immediately rushes forward and reaches Asher. As his right fist is about to collide with Asher, it's almost as if time stops for a second as a surge of adrenaline rushes through him. His smirk turns into a wide smile.]
Asher: (In Head) Good grief... He does not listen, does he?
[Asher quickly flings himself to the side, narrowly avoiding Croc's attack. The two exchange glares. Croc seems annoyed while Asher has a cocky look all over his face. It's now Croc notices that Asher is holding something in his right hand. It's one of the chains from the side of the ring. Croc's expression changes to one of confusion. He follows the trail of the chain and sees that it leads to where Asher was just standing. The chain hovers in the air while still being connected to the ring. However, the broken chain Asher is holding looms around Croc's right arm and more of the chains around the ring. His eyes widen as he realizes that this was his plan all along. He looks back at Asher who still has a wide smile on his face. Asher then pulls as hard as he can on the chain with both hands. The chain tightens and wraps around Croc's right arm tightly and pulls him forward toward the edge of the ring. Croc's entire right fist is out of the ring, along with part of his arm. Asher then lets go of the chain and changes his momentum towards Croc. He jumps up and uses Croc's right arm as a platform to stand on so he can be at eye level with him. With a wide smile on his face, he reals his right fist back and looks Croc dead in the eyes.]
Asher: I told you not to underestimate the little guy.
[With all the energy Asher has, he sends his right fist forward directly at Croc's head.]
*WACK*
[His punch hits Croc with everything he's got directly into his large slit right eye. Croc begins to fall backward allowing his right arm to become free from the chains in the process. Asher then uses Croc's arm as a platform once again as he jumps forward leaping behind him. He lands on the ground safely a few feet away. A second later, a loud thud can be heard as Croc hits the ground. Dirt blows up around him as the thud echoes through the arena. Asher, who's still slightly in a punching motion, lowers his fist and stands up straight as he turns his head around to see Croc. The entirety of the crowd in the arena has gone silent in shock. Bradley still has his foot on the desk, however, his eyes are wide and his jaw has dropped. Bentley seems to have the same reaction but his jaw hasn't fallen as low as his brothers. Jerry looks like he's about to fall out of the booth he's standing in, his eyes are completely wide. Leo on the other hand seems to be the calmest person in the arena at the moment. While he does look surprised, he doesn't show it too much. The entire arena is silent as Asher is the only one standing in the ring. Asher then looks around at the arena, now noticing that everyone's gone quiet.]
Asher: *Whistles* You all went as quiet as a church mouse...
[He continues to look all around the arena, eventually, he notices the private booth Jerry and Leo are in. He raises his right hand and salutes the two of them. He then turns around and looks at Croc who's still lying on the ground.]
Asher: (In Head) There's no way in hell that punch knocked him out... I guarantee it hurt, but knock him out? Nope. I think he's just in shock that I played him like a fiddle... A large leather fiddle. *Chuckles*
[The arena is still silent. Asher turns towards the commentator booth and sees Bradley and Bentley inside. Eventually, the two see him looking at them. They then look at each other both incredibly confused. Neither one seems to know what to do next. Bradley takes his foot off of the desk.]
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Uhhh... I uhh... Ben?
Bentley: (Through Speakers) D- Don't look at me! I don't know what to say!
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Ugh... Shit... Well uhh... Do you think we should uhh-
Bentley: (Through Speakers) I err- I don't know! Urhm... Yes... I think- that is what we should do.
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Alrighty then... I uhhh- I guess the winner of the final round is As-
Asher: (Yelling) Don't you fucking dare!
[The two anchors look down at where Asher is standing. He's pointing at the two of them with a smirk on his face.]
Asher: (Yelling) I don't see a ref around to call the fight! So as far as I'm concerned-
[Asher lowers his arm and looks back at Croc.]
Asher: (Yelling) -The fight goes on!
[Bradley and Bentley look at each other once again.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Urhm, he's got a point, Brad. What should we do now?
Bradley: (Through Speakers) Uhhhh... Well, the Ref is dead. And usually, when that happens it's up to us to make the calls for the rest of the night. I suppose we should-
Croc: *Angry Growl* Grrrrr...
[Croc begins to move around on the ground. He puts both of his arms out and pushes himself up. Asher smiles a bit more. Croc gets on a knee before standing up completely and facing toward the silent crowd.]
Croc: You gray-skinned-
[He turns around and looks at Asher. He looks pissed.]
Croc: -Cigarette smoking bastard...
[Asher stares at Croc with a blank expression on his face. He then lifts his eyebrows sarcastically.]
Asher: (Sarcastically) Bit racist don't ya think?
[Croc angrily growls.]
Croc: *Growling* You are one annoying son of a bitch, you know that?
Asher: Yeah, I've been told that a few times.
[Croc glares directly at Asher. He then raises his right hand and rubs his right eye where Asher punched him.]
Croc: So that was your plan...
[He lowers his right hand.]
Croc: Did you come up with that after watching me fight Warner?
Asher: No actually, I did what I always do-
[Asher smirks and crosses his arms. He seems confident but also seems like he isn't taking this seriously.]
Asher: I made it the fuck up as I went along.
[Croc stands there quietly judging Asher. The crowd is still silent.]
Croc: That's a serious answer isn't it?
Asher: Aye.
[Croc glares at him. Asher uncrosses his arms and places them to his side.]
Croc: (In Head) Fucking hell... This guy is one annoying demon... He's not strong or smart... But he seems to be clever when needed. And incredibly cocky... (Outloud) Ya know, despite appearances, you're kinda like Warner...
Asher: Handsome and phenomenal at everything we do?
Croc: More along the line of annoying and incredibly loud.
Asher: *Chuckles* I'll make sure to pass the compliment on to him...
[He shakes his shoulders and puts his fists up, getting into a fighting stance.]
Asher: Now, shall we continue where we left off?
Croc: Yes, we should. But, before I beat you to the point where you're unrecognizable...
[Croc puts his fists up ready to fight once again.]
Croc: What did stupid and stupider say your name was again?
Asher: Why? Want to remember the name of the demon who punched you in the face?
Croc: No, I wanted to know what I should put on your tombstone.
Asher: *Laughs* Alright, I'll give you the courtesy...
[Asher smirks as he points to himself.]
Asher: My name is Asher C. Burns. Now, while it might sound like I'm way over my head here, one day this entire damn city is gonna know who I am.
Croc: *Chuckles* If I let you live that long that is.
[The crowd remains silent. But a few of the demons begin to murmur amongst themselves. A lot of them seem confused, annoyed, and suspicious, while a very few of them seem intrigued. The two news anchors stare at the scene in the ring. They look at each other while covering up their microphones.]
Bentley: Do you think he's serious?
Bradley: About what? The whole "Entire damn city is gonna know who I am." thing?
Bentley: Yea that. D- Do you honestly think he's serious?
Bradley: I mean... It looks like it...
Bentley: But- do you think he could-
Bradley: Actually go through with it? Well, if every demon who said that actually went through with it this entire city would be full of celebrities.
Bentley: Yes, that is true. Try to make a name for yourself and you'll just get shot down the ladder.
Bradley: Or just shot! *Laughing* HAHAHAHA! No, but seriously, nobody makes it that far in this damn city...
Bentley: But do you think our fiery friend here may stand a chance?
Bradley: I don't know Ben... I do not know... But I do have an odd feeling about him.
[Ben raises an eyebrow intrigued.]
Bentley: An odd feeling? Exactly what kind of feeling would that be?
Bradley: The kind of feeling where you know something is going to happen but you have no way to know what it is or how to feel about it...
Bentley: Sooooooooooo- Uncertainty?
[Awkward silence.]
Bradley: Uhhhhh... Yea. That.
Bentley: Well, so do I.
Bradley: Huh, glad we're on the same page for once. I got a good feeling that we'll be seeing a lot more of this guy... Hell, maybe we'll see him on the news.
Bentley: On the 666 News? Well... I'm not too sure about tha- Oh shit they're fighting!
[While the two brothers were talking to each other about Asher, he and Croc seem to have started fighting again. The fight is pretty much the same as before, Asher running around the ring and avoiding Croc to the best of his abilities. Croc throws some punches at Asher to no avail as he barely manages to dodge them. While he seems to be able to read Croc's attacks well, he doesn't seem to be doing as hot when he started the fight.]
Asher: (In Head) Ok... This fucking- BLOWS!!!
[Asher just barely manages to dodge a left hook.]
Asher: (In Head) FUCK! I'm running out of steam...
[Asher jumps back to gain some distance from Croc.]
Asher: (In Head) I can't keep avoiding his attacks. *Deep Breath* Sure I can read them but I can't dodge them forever...
[He's breathing heavily and sweating hard. He looks exhausted. The one blow he took from Croc and all the dodging he's doing is draining his energy rapidly. It looks like Asher can only last a bit longer.]
Asher: (In Head) Shit... I only have enough in me for one more good hit... So I guess better make it count!
[Croc continuously swings at Asher without hesitation and without missing a beat. He barely gives Asher an opening to fight back. Asher continues to avoid or dodge every attack. But his movements are getting slower and sloppy. While Croc on the other hand doesn't seem tired at all.]
Asher: (In Head) Christ, how the hell can Jerry fight this guy? After three rounds of fighting, he hasn't slowed down at all!
[The fight continues with Croc's relentless attacks and Asher's constant dodging. Asher keeps a keen eye on his opponent, looking for any sort of opening he can take advantage of. And eventually, after what felt like hours of dodging, a small opening presents itself as Croc swings down with his right hand.]
Asher: (In Head) Well, it's now or never!
[He raises his right arm and punches forward with everything he's got left.]
*Thump*
[A thump can be heard as Asher's attack makes contact with Croc. It looks like Croc was expecting some sort of attack as he blocks Asher's punch with his left arm. Asher stands there a bit surprised by his failed attack.]
Asher: (In Head) Ooooooooo- Fuck.
[Croc then pushes Asher's fist away from him and raises his right fist high beside him.]
Asher: (In Head) Ah, I see, well played...
[Croc swings hard and hits Asher right on the front of his head. Much like before, Asher is sent flying across the ring. He skips on the ground of the ring like a rock before finally coming to rest face down on the ground. The arena is quiet. Only a very few of the audience members are talking. Jerry, Leo, Bradley, and Bentley are all still and silent. Jerry is staring at Asher with some concern.]
Jerry: (In Head) Crap... Croc wasn't holding back with that one...
[The dust around Asher settles. He's still lying on the ground motionless. Croc resumes his fighting stance, but he doesn't move anywhere in the ring. He just watches Asher lie on the ground.]
Croc: Hmmmm... (In Head) I think I might have killed him...
Asher: (Quietly) Ehhh...
[Asher spreads his arms out to his side and places both palms on the ground. He pushes himself up off the ground shakily. There's some blood on his forehead dripping onto the ground. It seems a combination of Croc's punch and skipping on the ground caused a wound. With a smile on his face, he places his foot on the ground and stands up. He's slouched over and looks completely defeated. But not defeated enough to give up apparently. He looks towards Croc, still smiling. Ashers raises his left hand and rubs his forehead. Some of the dripping blood smudges onto his fingertips. He looks at the blood on his hand, then back at Croc. He seems to have suddenly stopped shaking as he stands up straight with confidence. He raises his right hand and points at Croc. Asher stands completely still. And after a few seconds of silence, he speaks.]
Asher: *Cough* Just so you know-
[He stumbles back a few steps, still pointing at Croc.]
Asher: -I'm gonna want a rematch.
[With that last remark, he stumbles back a few steps and falls backward hitting the ground with a thump. Some dirt flies up from the ground around him. The arena is silent. Croc stares at Asher lying on the ground for a few seconds before lowering his fists.]
Croc: Dumbass.
[He shakes his head before looking up towards the commentator booth where Bradley and Bentley are seated. The two news anchors are looking down at the ring bewildered by the fight. Eventually, the two notice that Croc is staring at them. Croc gestures at both of them with his claws before gesturing down at Asher.]
Bradley & Bentley: (Through Speakers) Uhhhhhhhhhh-
[The two look across from themselves in the arena. They see Leo and Jerry in the observer booth watching the fight. Leo seems to be looking at the two of them. He then looks down at Asher before looking at the two anchors and shrugging. The two brothers look at each other in silence for only a second before they both nod. Bradley then quickly hits a button on the desk.]
*Ding* *Ding* *Ding*
Bradley: (Through Speakers) AND THE FIGHT GOES TO LEATHERHEAD!!!
[And the crowd goes wild. Yelling and cheering much as they did before.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) With three minutes left on the clock it seems Burns managed to survive exactly two minutes against the number one fighter! In the heavyweight division mind you.
Bradley: (Through Speakers) ARE YOU TELLING ME THAT A FIRST-TIME FIGHTER WHO NEVER ONCE STEPPED FOOT INTO THE RING MANAGED TO TAKE ON THE CHAMPION, LAND A SUCCESSFUL HIT SENDING HIM TO THE GROUND, AND MANAGED TO LAST TWO MINUTES!?!?!?
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Erhm... Yes? Were you not watching the fight?
[Bradley punches Bentley hard on his shoulder.]
Bentley: (Through Speakers) *Pain* OWW!!
Bradley: (Through Speakers) HOLY SHIT! IF ONLY I WAS BETTING ON THIS FIGHT!!! I WOULD HAVE MADE A KILLING TONIGHT!!!
Bentley: (Through Speakers) Yes, yes, a lot of tonight's guests were betting on this final fight.
Bradley: (Through Speakers) I wonder if anyone hit it big?
Bentley: (Through Speakers) I doubt it. Plenty of pissed-off faces in the audience. But if anyone did win, I'm sure they're quite pleased with themselves.
[Meanwhile in the booth across from the two anchors, Jerry and Leo watch the riled-up arena below them. Jerry is looking at Asher who's still lying on the ground of the ring. While Leo has a satisfied smirk all over his face. He takes his cigar out of his mouth and taps it against the railing sending some ash to the ground below. He places it back into his mouth and remains silent. Jerry speaks up.]
Jerry: Huh... I guess you won that bet.
Leo: Thanks to your friend and his determined spirit that is. He's quite the fighter for someone who has no experience in the ring.
Jerry: Yea... I'm uhh- kinda surprised he managed to knock Croc down.
Leo: Indeed. I've never seen anyone of your friend's stature manage to bring Leatherhead down to his knees, nevertheless get his back to the ground.
Jerry: Yea, yea... Yea... Can I uhhh- Go check on him?
Leo: Of course.
Jerry: Thank you, sir.
[Jerry quickly runs towards the door to the booth and leaves, closing the door behind him. Leo looks over his shoulder and watches him leave. He then looks back down at the ring and keeps his eyes on Asher. Who's still lying on the ground.]
Leo: (In Head) Hmm... Asher C. Burns, huh? Perhaps I should keep an eye on this Mr. Burns. He could prove to be a worthy investment of my time...
[The door to the booth opens up. A Suited Demon steps inside the room.]
Suited Demon: Congratulations sir. You won your bet.
Leo: (In Head) *Chuckles* And money...
[Back down at the ring, Asher continues to lie on the ground motionless. The crowd seems to continue and cheer for Croc's victory. Croc keeps a close eye on Asher even though he already won the fight.]
Croc: (In Head) So this guy is buddy-buddy with Warner, huh? I guess that means I'll be seeing more of this prick... Great.
[He turns around and walks toward the edge of the ring. He steps outside and walks towards where he entered the arena, soon disappearing out of sight. Asher continues to lie on the ground. He's still alive as his eyes are open and staring at the lights on the ceiling, but otherwise, he's completely motionless.]
Asher: (In Head) Well... This is *not* how I saw my night going.
[A rattling noise can be heard as some of the chains around the ring move around. Then some footsteps can be heard approaching Asher.]
Asher: (In Head) Regardless of me getting my ass kicked and almost dying, tonight was pretty entertaining.
[The footsteps get closer to Asher. Eventually, someone stands over him blocking the light from shining in his eyes. He can only see their silhouette. Asher smirks.]
???: You still alive bud?
Asher: *Chuckles* Only on the outside my friend.
[The lights in the arena begin to dim. The darker lights reveal the silhouette belonging to none other than Jerry. He's got his standard unimpressed expression on his face.]
Jerry: Well, considering that Croc hit you with everything he's got I'm surprised to hear that. Honestly, I'm surprised that you're alive at all.
Asher: Really? *Pian* Agh- You really think I'd lose a fight to an overgrown lizard from Louisiana? Or Florida? Or wherever the hell crocodiles are found?
Jerry: I'm pretty sure Croc's a hell-born, not a sinner, but yea I kinda did.
Asher: *Chuckles* Wow. Aren't you a good friend?
[Jerry smirks a tiny bit.]
Jerry: Yea, yea, you can complain later.
[The sound of the chains rattling can be heard once again followed by the sound of multiple footsteps. Jerry looks towards the noise while Asher attempts to look as well without moving his head. Two Suited Demons walk up to the two of them carrying a cloth folding stretcher between them.]
Suited Demon: Can he walk or not?
[Jerry looks at Asher with an eyebrow raised.]
Jerry: Can you?
Asher: Yea, I can walk.
[Asher squirms on the ground for a second. He then stops awkwardly.]
Asher: Yea, I can't walk.
Suited Demon: *Annoyed Groan* Alright, well the boss wants to talk to him face to face. He ordered us to carry him in the instance where Mr. Burns cannot move of his own free will.
Asher: Neat! First class treatment!
Jerry: Ehhh- It's more like low-class treatment.
[The two Suited Demons walk next to Asher and place the cloth stretcher on the ground beside him. The two then lift Asher and place him on the stretcher. They lift it up and start walking towards the chains beside the arena. Jerry walks beside them and moves the chains away so the Suited Demons can walk through. Jerry then follows behind and makes his way beside Asher on the stretcher. The group walks silently out of the arena and out of the audience's view.]
Jerry: Hey uhhh- Asher?
[Asher looks at Jerry without moving a muscle.]
Asher: Yea?
[Jerry awkwardly places his right hand on the back of his head.]
Jerry: It uhh... Really means a lot to me... What you did back there...
[Asher raises an eyebrow confused.]
Asher: (Confused) What do you mean?
Jerry: What you did for me tonight, that you'd get yourself beat up for me. There aren't a lot of people in hell who would do something like that for pretty much anyone. Let alone for someone they work for and barely know.
[Asher smiles and chuckles.]
Asher: *Chuckles* Hehehe. No worries my friend... You and I are part of the lowest of the low in this damned city. We gotta have each other's backs down here because there's no one else in hell who will help us out for the good of their hearts.
Jerry: *Chuckles* Yea. I guess if we didn't- Heh... We'd probably both be cannibal food by now.
Asher: *Laughs* Hahaheh! Cannibals are weird.
Jerry: Yes they are... Yes, they, are...
Asher: Oh yea that reminds me for whatever reason. I kicked your bedroom door open and broke it in the process.
[Jerry lets out a long annoyed groan.]
Jerry: *Long Annoyed Groan* Goddamit Asher.
Asher: *Maniacal Laughter*
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A/N: 9,478 words. Yike.