The Last Blacksmith Posted May 24, 2021 Posted May 24, 2021 It's 7 in the morning. We are inside the OCW Performance Center in Brooklyn. On the edge of the central ring, we can see a hooded figure striking a punching bag positioned at ringside. The camera cuts to a close-up, revealing that the hooded figure is none other than The Last Blacksmith, grappling with his morning workout. While the Italian is struggling with the punching bag, the heavy metallic sound of a door is heard. He stops sparring with the bag to turn to the man that just entered. TLB: Well, well...it would seem you are now convinced... The camera pans towards the door, revealing The Mantis walking towards the row of treadmills, dressed in dark green shorts and a tank top. The Mantis: Don't kid yourself, mate. I'm here of my own volition. It's just a shame that the only good gym within walking distance of my apartment also happens to contain you. TLB: Yes, okay, drop the act and save it for someone who gives a shit. Get in the ring, come on. The Mantis: Right, right, fine... Mantis reluctantly steps into the ring, while Blacksmith takes a kendo stick and then follows him. The Mantis: Whoa, whoa, what's that for? Blacksmith gives the kendo stick to The Mantis. TLB: Hit me. The Mantis looks at the Kendo stick in his hands, and hesitates. The Mantis: Uh...are you sure? W-we're not really meant to- Suddenly, The Last Blacksmith snatches the kendo stick from The Mantis' hands, and hits him in the stomach, causing him to fall painfully to the ground. TLB: Honestly, what is your problem, Mantis? You have a chance to hit your opponent, and you hesitated in this way? The Mantis, still sore on the ground, tries to speak. Mantis: I...y-you...guh... TLB: Shut up. Shut the fuck up. Don't you understand how pathetic you are? What do you plan to do when you get back in the ring, huh? Have mercy on those in front of you so they can kick your ass? All while wearing those ridiculous tights? Open your eyes,! The Mantis attempts to stand up, only for The Last Blacksmith to hit him again in the back with the kendo stick, causing him to scream out in pain. TLB: You see this? This is the only thing you can get by showing mercy. Only this…But now, I'll give you a chance. The ability to put the weak part of you behind you, and bring out the dangerous part of you. If it exists, that is...now, get up! Despite the immense pain, The Mantis slowly makes it to his feet. He looks The Last Blacksmith dead in the eye, while the latter puts the kendo stick under his neck, as if to make him lift his head. TLB: Are you ready? The Mantis: Not like I've much of a choice now, do I? TLB: So it begins... Mantis 2
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