Post by Jackson Grace on Oct 27, 2017 15:53:55 GMT -5
We open backstage at the Butyrka Prison in Moscow, Russia. The home to FWA's inaugural Monday Night Coldwar. Wrestlers are jumping around, trying to keep warm before their matches as the sharp, brisk winds associated with Russia whip through the facility. This isn't a prison known for it's luxuries. This is a dangerous unit and many believe the inmates contained within here are deserving of no such pampering. No heating, basic meals and brutal treatment from guards are very much the order of the day here.
Enter Jackson Grace. He stumbles through the door, broken yet proud of his victory. His first match in FWA and his first professionally as a Wrestler. He immediately drops to a seat on a bench, catching his breath. Right now the cold seems not to be affecting him as the adrenaline from the baying crowd courses through his veins. He picks up a white towel from his bag and uses it to stem the bleeding coming from above his eye. Ozymandias made a real mess of him out there, he was lucky to pull out the win, but here we are.
So that went better than expected. Though I wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of whatever Ozymandias is wanting to dish out to any poor, unfortunate soul that gets in his way...Fortunately for me, I only have to look forwards...Forwards to the next round of the tournament. I'll be facing the winner of the Dylan Black/AK Andrews matchup and that's sure to be a hell of a fight. Hopefully they take more out of each other than we just did then!
Jackson takes his phone out of his bag. He presses at it clumsily just as any man his age seems to. He stuck with old technology, his thumbs were too fat to get used to these touchscreen thingy-majigs.
RING RING
Hi, honey!
H-Hey darling.
Are you ok? How did it go?
Well you can tell the kids Daddy won! I'm into round two!
Honey, that's great! Well done! I told you that you could do it!
Yeah, yeah...The old "I told you so" speech, right?
They share a laugh. You hear Vanessa calling the kids over. She relays Jackson's message onto them and you hear them cheering in the background.
"Yeah, go Daddy!"
How long until the next round?
They're not telling us a whole lot....Just a matter of sitting here and waiting for a shout. I'm gonna get a drink, patch myself up and try to keep warm!
Wait, what do you mean patch yourself up?!
Never mind baby. I love you...give the kids a kiss from their old man. Bye!
Before Vanessa can interject anymore, Jackson clicks the phone off. A couple of the boys make fun of Jackson talking to his wife on the phone, in a similar way to how school kids might. Jackson smiles to himself and puts the towel back to his eye, hoping that keeping pressure on the wound will suffice to keep his vision clear for the next round.
It was only 2 weeks ago that this path became a reality. Until then it was just a pipe dream, a hobby. I was just doing this to keep fit, like any guy my age does.
We are back at the abandoned factory we saw before. Jackson is perched on a ledge out of the way, his face still covered in the blue goop he picked up from the sports store. He's watching carefully as Police take the two hoodlums he apprehended away. Loading them into the back of a Police meat wagon. He smiles to himself, satisfied with a good night's work. We see him hop out of site and into a side alley. The Police are moving on now and Jackson starts to pack his stuff into a bag he had stowed in the alley way. Wiping the goop from his face, he becomes the man we know once again. His gear gets thrown into the bag as hastily as possible and he starts the walk back to his car.
That was a rush, I can tell you that. Can I keep doing this? Is this the way my life is now? How will 'Ness take it if she finds out?
Surely keeping this from my wife isn't my best option, is it?
Jackson continues to think out loud as he paces onwards. He parked a clear few minutes away, to try to keep his registration plates out of camera view. He chose THAT alleyway because he knew there was no camera coverage and he could remain undetected as long as his plan went off correctly. As he rounds a corner into the main streets of London, his phone rings. He fumbles, getting it out of his pocket.
Who the hell calls at this time of night?
It's Gary...what does he want?
Hello?
Jackie-boy! Glad I could catch you! Sorry to call you so late, but I got an offer that can't wait!
An offer? If you're going to try to sell me an upgraded pla-
No-no-no! Trust me, you're gonna want to hear this! You know how I've been saying you were kind of a natural here, right?
Yeah
Well how do you feel about going a little further with it?
How so?
I know a guy who knows a guy...Can't go into the details too much...But there's a new Wrestling Company coming out of Russia and they're looking for talent. I've been wanting to tell you about this for a few weeks, but I didn't want to get your hopes up. One night and it's chance to become the first Firestorm Wrestling Alliance Champion! You in?
Gary, you're not selling me here! I got kids to feed, you think I can afford to fly out to Russia?
Well see how this sweetens your palate. Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dollars! One night's work!
Holy shit!!
Yeah! Can you get that young hottie to mind the store for a few days?
I thought it was one night?
Yeah...this place is intense. You're going to need a couple of days, mate!
So who on earth wants to pay a new guy like me a quarter of a million dollars?
I'm not going to lie...It goes pretty high up....and pretty low down, if you know what I mean? This isn't totally all legit. I can't say more than that, but as far as you're concerned, you turn up, do your best and get paid. Sound good?
Let me get back to you tomorrow, deal?
Pussy! You're going home to ask the boss aren't you?
They laugh together and say their goodbyes. Jackson hangs up the phone and slips it back into his pocket. Streetlight is the only thing illuminating the silhouette of Jackson's car, now around 100 yards away.
This night gets crazier and crazier...I'm sure I said I was too old for this shit six years back!
We fade to black.
THE NEXT DAY
Jackson comes into the front room, his family are a little concerned as he's normally up and around before they are. He looks a little stiff in his walk, but other than that, there's no major issues considering the night he had last night.
What's up with you, night Owl?
Oh, I think I slept a little funny last night. Sorry if I woke you when I got home. Had a long night sorting out some work stuff. Hey you know Gary, right?
Not personally, but he's the guy that seems to get off putting you in pain three times a week, right?
That's the guy. Well...As you know, he thinks I'm quite the physical specimen, right?
Vanessa stifles a laugh.
Hey, I have feelings, you know? Anyway. He knows some guy who's holding a Wrestling Tournament...He's paying a lot of money. Would you be cool if I have Gemma overlook the store for a few days so I can go compete?
A few days?! That doesn't seem like you! It must be a lot of money if you're talking about not working for that amount of time.
Jackson grabs a piece of paper and pen off the table and hastily writes down the number that Gary gave him last night. He never believed in sharing his financial details with the kids. He said let them be kids now and let them worry about money later. Needless to say, Vanessa recoils in shock. Looking up at Jackson, down at the paper and back again. She's expecting this to be some kind of scam, but Jackson's straight laced face reassures her that this is the real deal.
Baby, that pays off the house and leaves us enough to play with. I win? I become the first FWA Champion and have the opportunity to make that much twice per month!
Holy sh-
Vanessa notices the kids are in the room.
Sugar! If this is real baby, you have to try! Where is it, anyway?
Russia...
What?! No wonder you need a few days off! What about me and the kids?
Surely for that amount of money, your Mom can help out a little, right?
Hmmm...
Baby, we would be mortgage free! Think of the expendable income!
I guess...
Great! Right I'm going to get in touch with Gary. It seemed like a pretty time sensitive offer, so I'm going to get the wheels rolling and get packing. They'll need me there next week.
Jackson fires off up the stairs towards the bedroom, he already has his phone in his hand to message Gary about it. We fade to black.
Monday, October 29th.
Heathrow Airport
We see an apprehensive Jackson Grace and his family striding into the Departure Lounge. Jackson has a rather large wheely back with him, he's going to need it...The average temperature in Moscow right now is zero...Freezing temperature!
Have you got everything? Coats? Spare underwear?
Baby, we checked this three times. I'm a grown man, I'm going to be fine. All I need is for you three to believe in me, right?
The kids smile. Vanessa is clearly worried, but she smiles too. Tears fill her eyes. They haven't been apart for this long since Jackson was in ICU with his injury. Jackson looks at her, giving her a reassuring look as she smiles back. He crouches to address the children.
Anthony. You're man of the house for a few days, got that? I want you to keep your Mother safe. She obviously can't go a day without me, so she might be a little bit sad, can you be strong for me?
Anthony puffs his chest out. He's a man now. His Dad just said so. He nods excitedly and gives Jackson a hug.
Now Chloe....Daddy is going to miss you most of all. I need you to go to bed nicely at night. No more silly games because your Mother might be a little stressed, right?
Vanessa shoots Jackson a joking stare as he grins, knowing she heard him comment on her being stressed.
Above all...whispers Make sure Anthony doesn't do anything stupid!
Chloe giggles...That was their little secret and she gives her Dad a massive hug. Jackson stands up and calls for a Family hug and they all embrace one more time before Jackson heads off, waving to the family as he goes through the door.
As he does, he heads down a long corridor, looking for flight information. He notices a small man, dressed impeccably standing off to his right. In his hand, he holds a sign saying "Grace". Jackson looks intensely at the man, wondering if that man is there to accompany him to Moscow. The man begins to speak in a thick Russian accent.
You are Jackson Grace, correct?
That's me, why'd you ask?
Mr Grace...I go by the name Anatoly. Flight awaits you. Come with me.
With that, the man turns on his heels and walks away. Jackson ponders if this is a joke for a second before deciding if the man already knew his name, he must be legitimate, so he better follow him. They head past the boarding stations and right out of a door onto the runway. Jackson looks confused. People get shot for less in this day and age! Anatoly walks him right out to a small plane sitting slightly out of view.
This is plane for you, Mr. Grace.
You mean I don't have to wait?
What silly game is this? You work for Mr Kosloff now. He does not believe in travelling with the how you say...peasants. Come, come!
Jackson reluctantly boards the plane and the doors close behind them. He takes a seat inside the plane and the scene starts to fade.
This is pretty classy Mr Anatoly. Please send Mr Kosloff my regards.
Well Mr. Grace...in Russia we say "Before a man heads to war, first he enjoys pleasures of the world"
We come back at Moscow airport. The plane had to circle a little due to the runway being gritted and the touchdown wasn't exactly clean, but we made it. Jackson Grace is now in the Russian capital city, Moscow. He emerges from the plane refreshed. Who knows how many hours of sleep on a private jet can do that to a man.
Well Mr. Anatoly. I was sceptical of you at first, but I have to say I'm impressed.
In Russia, we act with code of honour, Mr. Grace. First, though I feel I must apologise to you.
Why's that?
Suddenly Jackson is grabbed by two men who throw a burlap sack over his head. He struggles, but to no avail. Their strength and the element of surprise they had in the attack is simply too much. He feels zip ties go around his hands and feet, binding him. He wonders if this was all a scam. What the hell has Gary gotten him into?!
Mr. Grace, for security reasons, you cannot know where you are headed. It is top secret information known only to a select few of Mr Kosloff's men. You know you can trust me...Be safe.
Jackson feels himself get loaded into the boot of a car, it slams shut plunging his already dim world into darkness. How the hell can you trust a man that lures you in before treating you like a hostage. Jackson struggles briefly, before deciding it is futile as he feels the car pulling away, being thrown into the doors as we do so. The shot shows the car driving swifyl
Butyrka Prison, Moscow.
Jackson awakens to the sounds of car doors closing. The car shaking with each one. He decides to play dead and wait to see what happens. Maybe he can take these guys once the ties are off. He feels the boot open and light creep into the world. He is picked up by the same two heavies who threw him into there a few hours ago. They frogmarch him through a set of doors and remove the burlap sack from his head. His eyes squint to acclimatise to the light again. This place looks grim, but he dare not say a word, right now.
Mr. Grace...As I say, my apologies for such an abrupt transfer. We could not risk shut down of our operation here. Now if you will...
Anatoly gestures to the men who cut the ties, freeing Jackson. He shoots both of them a dirty look before shoving himself free of their grasp. He reluctantly follows Anatoly through the hallway.
This will be your accommodation for the duration of your stay. It's not much, but it is in keeping with the image Mr Kosloff wants to project. I trust that this is ok with you?
Really? Now you ask if it's ok? After you had your stooges throw me into a car and lug me around? You had me thinking I was headed to a bridge to be shot!
Worry not, Mr Grace. You are in no danger. We are men of honour. Now if you will follow me. My men will have your belongings back to you soon.
Jackson sighs, he has no choice. He is in a strange country with strange people. Although Mr Anatoly had him brought here like a corpse, he has done everything he promised, thus far. He heads down a corridor. Men press their faces at heavy Iron doors, yelling obscenities.
Wait, am I in a jail?!
Mr Kosloff does not want the location disclosed to the outsiders.
When am I going to see this mysterious Mr Kosloff?
Soon, comrade....Soon.
Jackson continues to follow Anatoly along what now appear to be prison walk ways as we fade to black.
We arrive back at the changing room. Jackson still has the towel pressed to his eye. He looks a little more relaxed, but due to the cold he has also thrown a heavy coat on and a blanket over him. He huddles in the corner, wondering if this was all worth it. Two more men stumble through the door. One looking more humble than the other. It's not hard to work out which won. He couldn't name them as they're the opposite side of the bracket and he only studied up on the men on his side. He figured he didn't intend to make it that far so didn't need to bother himself with the details. Just then, the door swings open and an agent walks into the room.
Jackson Grace? You are up, friend. You put on a good show in first round. Mr Kosloff looks forward to seeing more soon!
Jackson follows the agent towards the Gorilla position. As he heads down the corridor, he sees a mountain of a man standing against the wall. He looks impeccably dressed and he he must be nearly 7 feet tall! Jackson makes eye contact with him for just a second as he is whisked past to begin his next contest.
Is that...Is that Mr Kosloff?
No time, Mr Grace...You go now...Good luck!
Jackson is ushered towards the curtain where the jeering of thousands of people, most of them convicted Russian felons fills the makeshift arena. He bounces up and down, shaking his muscles loose as the opening notes to "Kryptonite" by Three Doors Down starts to play over the sound system.
This is his judgement.
This is his arena.
This..
Is...
FWA!!
So that went better than expected. Though I wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of whatever Ozymandias is wanting to dish out to any poor, unfortunate soul that gets in his way...Fortunately for me, I only have to look forwards...Forwards to the next round of the tournament. I'll be facing the winner of the Dylan Black/AK Andrews matchup and that's sure to be a hell of a fight. Hopefully they take more out of each other than we just did then!
Jackson takes his phone out of his bag. He presses at it clumsily just as any man his age seems to. He stuck with old technology, his thumbs were too fat to get used to these touchscreen thingy-majigs.
RING RING
Hi, honey!
H-Hey darling.
Are you ok? How did it go?
Well you can tell the kids Daddy won! I'm into round two!
Honey, that's great! Well done! I told you that you could do it!
Yeah, yeah...The old "I told you so" speech, right?
They share a laugh. You hear Vanessa calling the kids over. She relays Jackson's message onto them and you hear them cheering in the background.
"Yeah, go Daddy!"
How long until the next round?
They're not telling us a whole lot....Just a matter of sitting here and waiting for a shout. I'm gonna get a drink, patch myself up and try to keep warm!
Wait, what do you mean patch yourself up?!
Never mind baby. I love you...give the kids a kiss from their old man. Bye!
Before Vanessa can interject anymore, Jackson clicks the phone off. A couple of the boys make fun of Jackson talking to his wife on the phone, in a similar way to how school kids might. Jackson smiles to himself and puts the towel back to his eye, hoping that keeping pressure on the wound will suffice to keep his vision clear for the next round.
It was only 2 weeks ago that this path became a reality. Until then it was just a pipe dream, a hobby. I was just doing this to keep fit, like any guy my age does.
We are back at the abandoned factory we saw before. Jackson is perched on a ledge out of the way, his face still covered in the blue goop he picked up from the sports store. He's watching carefully as Police take the two hoodlums he apprehended away. Loading them into the back of a Police meat wagon. He smiles to himself, satisfied with a good night's work. We see him hop out of site and into a side alley. The Police are moving on now and Jackson starts to pack his stuff into a bag he had stowed in the alley way. Wiping the goop from his face, he becomes the man we know once again. His gear gets thrown into the bag as hastily as possible and he starts the walk back to his car.
That was a rush, I can tell you that. Can I keep doing this? Is this the way my life is now? How will 'Ness take it if she finds out?
Surely keeping this from my wife isn't my best option, is it?
Jackson continues to think out loud as he paces onwards. He parked a clear few minutes away, to try to keep his registration plates out of camera view. He chose THAT alleyway because he knew there was no camera coverage and he could remain undetected as long as his plan went off correctly. As he rounds a corner into the main streets of London, his phone rings. He fumbles, getting it out of his pocket.
Who the hell calls at this time of night?
It's Gary...what does he want?
Hello?
Jackie-boy! Glad I could catch you! Sorry to call you so late, but I got an offer that can't wait!
An offer? If you're going to try to sell me an upgraded pla-
No-no-no! Trust me, you're gonna want to hear this! You know how I've been saying you were kind of a natural here, right?
Yeah
Well how do you feel about going a little further with it?
How so?
I know a guy who knows a guy...Can't go into the details too much...But there's a new Wrestling Company coming out of Russia and they're looking for talent. I've been wanting to tell you about this for a few weeks, but I didn't want to get your hopes up. One night and it's chance to become the first Firestorm Wrestling Alliance Champion! You in?
Gary, you're not selling me here! I got kids to feed, you think I can afford to fly out to Russia?
Well see how this sweetens your palate. Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dollars! One night's work!
Holy shit!!
Yeah! Can you get that young hottie to mind the store for a few days?
I thought it was one night?
Yeah...this place is intense. You're going to need a couple of days, mate!
So who on earth wants to pay a new guy like me a quarter of a million dollars?
I'm not going to lie...It goes pretty high up....and pretty low down, if you know what I mean? This isn't totally all legit. I can't say more than that, but as far as you're concerned, you turn up, do your best and get paid. Sound good?
Let me get back to you tomorrow, deal?
Pussy! You're going home to ask the boss aren't you?
They laugh together and say their goodbyes. Jackson hangs up the phone and slips it back into his pocket. Streetlight is the only thing illuminating the silhouette of Jackson's car, now around 100 yards away.
This night gets crazier and crazier...I'm sure I said I was too old for this shit six years back!
We fade to black.
THE NEXT DAY
Jackson comes into the front room, his family are a little concerned as he's normally up and around before they are. He looks a little stiff in his walk, but other than that, there's no major issues considering the night he had last night.
What's up with you, night Owl?
Oh, I think I slept a little funny last night. Sorry if I woke you when I got home. Had a long night sorting out some work stuff. Hey you know Gary, right?
Not personally, but he's the guy that seems to get off putting you in pain three times a week, right?
That's the guy. Well...As you know, he thinks I'm quite the physical specimen, right?
Vanessa stifles a laugh.
Hey, I have feelings, you know? Anyway. He knows some guy who's holding a Wrestling Tournament...He's paying a lot of money. Would you be cool if I have Gemma overlook the store for a few days so I can go compete?
A few days?! That doesn't seem like you! It must be a lot of money if you're talking about not working for that amount of time.
Jackson grabs a piece of paper and pen off the table and hastily writes down the number that Gary gave him last night. He never believed in sharing his financial details with the kids. He said let them be kids now and let them worry about money later. Needless to say, Vanessa recoils in shock. Looking up at Jackson, down at the paper and back again. She's expecting this to be some kind of scam, but Jackson's straight laced face reassures her that this is the real deal.
Baby, that pays off the house and leaves us enough to play with. I win? I become the first FWA Champion and have the opportunity to make that much twice per month!
Holy sh-
Vanessa notices the kids are in the room.
Sugar! If this is real baby, you have to try! Where is it, anyway?
Russia...
What?! No wonder you need a few days off! What about me and the kids?
Surely for that amount of money, your Mom can help out a little, right?
Hmmm...
Baby, we would be mortgage free! Think of the expendable income!
I guess...
Great! Right I'm going to get in touch with Gary. It seemed like a pretty time sensitive offer, so I'm going to get the wheels rolling and get packing. They'll need me there next week.
Jackson fires off up the stairs towards the bedroom, he already has his phone in his hand to message Gary about it. We fade to black.
Monday, October 29th.
Heathrow Airport
We see an apprehensive Jackson Grace and his family striding into the Departure Lounge. Jackson has a rather large wheely back with him, he's going to need it...The average temperature in Moscow right now is zero...Freezing temperature!
Have you got everything? Coats? Spare underwear?
Baby, we checked this three times. I'm a grown man, I'm going to be fine. All I need is for you three to believe in me, right?
The kids smile. Vanessa is clearly worried, but she smiles too. Tears fill her eyes. They haven't been apart for this long since Jackson was in ICU with his injury. Jackson looks at her, giving her a reassuring look as she smiles back. He crouches to address the children.
Anthony. You're man of the house for a few days, got that? I want you to keep your Mother safe. She obviously can't go a day without me, so she might be a little bit sad, can you be strong for me?
Anthony puffs his chest out. He's a man now. His Dad just said so. He nods excitedly and gives Jackson a hug.
Now Chloe....Daddy is going to miss you most of all. I need you to go to bed nicely at night. No more silly games because your Mother might be a little stressed, right?
Vanessa shoots Jackson a joking stare as he grins, knowing she heard him comment on her being stressed.
Above all...whispers Make sure Anthony doesn't do anything stupid!
Chloe giggles...That was their little secret and she gives her Dad a massive hug. Jackson stands up and calls for a Family hug and they all embrace one more time before Jackson heads off, waving to the family as he goes through the door.
As he does, he heads down a long corridor, looking for flight information. He notices a small man, dressed impeccably standing off to his right. In his hand, he holds a sign saying "Grace". Jackson looks intensely at the man, wondering if that man is there to accompany him to Moscow. The man begins to speak in a thick Russian accent.
You are Jackson Grace, correct?
That's me, why'd you ask?
Mr Grace...I go by the name Anatoly. Flight awaits you. Come with me.
With that, the man turns on his heels and walks away. Jackson ponders if this is a joke for a second before deciding if the man already knew his name, he must be legitimate, so he better follow him. They head past the boarding stations and right out of a door onto the runway. Jackson looks confused. People get shot for less in this day and age! Anatoly walks him right out to a small plane sitting slightly out of view.
This is plane for you, Mr. Grace.
You mean I don't have to wait?
What silly game is this? You work for Mr Kosloff now. He does not believe in travelling with the how you say...peasants. Come, come!
Jackson reluctantly boards the plane and the doors close behind them. He takes a seat inside the plane and the scene starts to fade.
This is pretty classy Mr Anatoly. Please send Mr Kosloff my regards.
Well Mr. Grace...in Russia we say "Before a man heads to war, first he enjoys pleasures of the world"
We come back at Moscow airport. The plane had to circle a little due to the runway being gritted and the touchdown wasn't exactly clean, but we made it. Jackson Grace is now in the Russian capital city, Moscow. He emerges from the plane refreshed. Who knows how many hours of sleep on a private jet can do that to a man.
Well Mr. Anatoly. I was sceptical of you at first, but I have to say I'm impressed.
In Russia, we act with code of honour, Mr. Grace. First, though I feel I must apologise to you.
Why's that?
Suddenly Jackson is grabbed by two men who throw a burlap sack over his head. He struggles, but to no avail. Their strength and the element of surprise they had in the attack is simply too much. He feels zip ties go around his hands and feet, binding him. He wonders if this was all a scam. What the hell has Gary gotten him into?!
Mr. Grace, for security reasons, you cannot know where you are headed. It is top secret information known only to a select few of Mr Kosloff's men. You know you can trust me...Be safe.
Jackson feels himself get loaded into the boot of a car, it slams shut plunging his already dim world into darkness. How the hell can you trust a man that lures you in before treating you like a hostage. Jackson struggles briefly, before deciding it is futile as he feels the car pulling away, being thrown into the doors as we do so. The shot shows the car driving swifyl
Butyrka Prison, Moscow.
Jackson awakens to the sounds of car doors closing. The car shaking with each one. He decides to play dead and wait to see what happens. Maybe he can take these guys once the ties are off. He feels the boot open and light creep into the world. He is picked up by the same two heavies who threw him into there a few hours ago. They frogmarch him through a set of doors and remove the burlap sack from his head. His eyes squint to acclimatise to the light again. This place looks grim, but he dare not say a word, right now.
Mr. Grace...As I say, my apologies for such an abrupt transfer. We could not risk shut down of our operation here. Now if you will...
Anatoly gestures to the men who cut the ties, freeing Jackson. He shoots both of them a dirty look before shoving himself free of their grasp. He reluctantly follows Anatoly through the hallway.
This will be your accommodation for the duration of your stay. It's not much, but it is in keeping with the image Mr Kosloff wants to project. I trust that this is ok with you?
Really? Now you ask if it's ok? After you had your stooges throw me into a car and lug me around? You had me thinking I was headed to a bridge to be shot!
Worry not, Mr Grace. You are in no danger. We are men of honour. Now if you will follow me. My men will have your belongings back to you soon.
Jackson sighs, he has no choice. He is in a strange country with strange people. Although Mr Anatoly had him brought here like a corpse, he has done everything he promised, thus far. He heads down a corridor. Men press their faces at heavy Iron doors, yelling obscenities.
Wait, am I in a jail?!
Mr Kosloff does not want the location disclosed to the outsiders.
When am I going to see this mysterious Mr Kosloff?
Soon, comrade....Soon.
Jackson continues to follow Anatoly along what now appear to be prison walk ways as we fade to black.
We arrive back at the changing room. Jackson still has the towel pressed to his eye. He looks a little more relaxed, but due to the cold he has also thrown a heavy coat on and a blanket over him. He huddles in the corner, wondering if this was all worth it. Two more men stumble through the door. One looking more humble than the other. It's not hard to work out which won. He couldn't name them as they're the opposite side of the bracket and he only studied up on the men on his side. He figured he didn't intend to make it that far so didn't need to bother himself with the details. Just then, the door swings open and an agent walks into the room.
Jackson Grace? You are up, friend. You put on a good show in first round. Mr Kosloff looks forward to seeing more soon!
Jackson follows the agent towards the Gorilla position. As he heads down the corridor, he sees a mountain of a man standing against the wall. He looks impeccably dressed and he he must be nearly 7 feet tall! Jackson makes eye contact with him for just a second as he is whisked past to begin his next contest.
Is that...Is that Mr Kosloff?
No time, Mr Grace...You go now...Good luck!
Jackson is ushered towards the curtain where the jeering of thousands of people, most of them convicted Russian felons fills the makeshift arena. He bounces up and down, shaking his muscles loose as the opening notes to "Kryptonite" by Three Doors Down starts to play over the sound system.
This is his judgement.
This is his arena.
This..
Is...
FWA!!