Time seemed to have halted on Haven as a monochrome effect came over the arena.The voices from the audience were replaced with silence.
You make promise of protection
To a future after life
To the final resurrection
And to eternal paradiseMist filled the stage as a mirror was slowly raised onto the center of the stage. A dark apparition appeared in the mirror, reaching out towards the ring, the mirror halting it's progress. Taking a step closer, the apparition slowly pushed a gloved fist through the frame and then the hooded figure stepped through entirely. The apparition was the Mysterious Stranger himself, Mister Mirage!
But then I'm blinded with temptation
And to every mortal sin
Is it God that sits there waiting?
Or will the darkness suck me inMister Mirage's coal black eyes stared down at the ring towards his opponent for this evening. The monochrome effect suddenly vanished as the music faded. He stood there a moment, leaning against the side of the mirror as he gazed down the ramp. Finally, his voice could be heard over the PA.
"So many have desired and fought for a few scraps of leather..." Reaching into his coat, Mirage revealed the National championship. "This things of man are curious. This grants no power, no strength. Only produces the petty prize of pride for as long as one holds it. I found this to be a useful tool, however. It weeds out the worthy, and conserves my strength. Since coming into my possession, I've felt only a few pleas for this prize." The Mysterious Stranger tilted his head to the side. "But your soul screams loudest for this. It doesn't just desire it, it needs it."