│ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST│ Legacy Title Match
Sept 4, 2021 9:53:13 GMT -5
CallMeRobert, Jason Long, and 2 more like this
Post by gothmother on Sept 4, 2021 9:53:13 GMT -5
HAMMER TO FALL [TIL THEY ONE DAY CALL YOUR NAME]
[Maebashi, Japan] AFTERMATH Proving Ground XXII
The show was still going when Elena DeDraca made it to the backstage area. She was awaited by the rest of HYDRA. The three other girls had those knowing, but also devilish, smiles on their faces. They were all aligned in front of a monitor. The first one applauding her was Lara Chambers, while gently running her fingers over the brought baseball bat. If one thing could be said, they didn’t come unprepared. Elena, who had made her way through the audience, joined them with a smile.
“Message sent.”
“Did you see the confusion on the boy's face? It was adorable. For a moment I thought he would come up and hug your ass.”
“I might have to rewatch, darling. I was a little busy kicking Swindle’s head off. Poor nugget, this really wasn't anything personal. A classic “Wrong place, wrong time” scenario.”
They were busy chatting with each other as another person appeared in the picture. Project Honor’s own backstage interviewer, Crystal Ward. Elena looked at her from the side, probably making a decision at this very moment. It wouldn’t have been the first time an interviewer had to feel the wrath of Hydra for asking the wrong things. Thankfully she was in good spirits though.
”Can I get a moment of your time, Elena?”
“I don’t know, can you?”
The girl immediately took a step back which caused the Fist of Hydra to laugh. Right behind her the group had formatted, blocking her exit.
“Say what you have to say, time is short… and so is my patience.”
”Just moments ago you attacked Swindle Shelldrake. Now the big question is: Why?”
“The core of this is so easy, too easy- so I don’t expect people to see it. I went out there, because I could. But most importantly, didn’t you see it? Jason Long, the almighty, obviously needs all the help he can get. He can act tough all he wants, he is nothing more than a fat kid in the Candyland. He will do everything for attention. And I literally mean - everything.”
”Jason Long is your upcoming opponent. Someone that already had a lot of success in the company. Wouldn’t you have done better weakening him out there...
Elena itook a step closer. She looked at the young female from head to toe. The look on her face was unimpressed, even a little disgusted. The rest of Hydra hadn’t moved an inch.
“Attack him? What for? I am not the type of champion that needs to take out her opponents before an important match. I haven’t done that in the past and certainly won’t start doing so now. But at points you have to remind people of who is running the place. It doesn’t matter to me how many titles Jason has won, or will keep winning. There is one, the Legacy title, that will not be on this list. Not till I am ready to step away.”
Once more the interviewer was ready to interrupt, but Elena was faster than her. With a quick move she ripped the microphone out of her hands, looking directly into the camera.
“Aren’t you tired of always being the victim, Jason? You and your girlfriend both. You got big mouths, but nothing to back it up. I am the ONLY Legacy champion that will ever matter. I like to create chaos, because that is my motivation. You can doubt me as much as you want, but words are only words. While you are busy playing your kindergarten games, I will always be ten steps ahead of you. Because that is my job.”
Another pause. Another smile. Another look towards Crystal Ward, who looked very uncomfortable at this point. It was Deirdre Evans who stood the closest to her. Letting out a small growl.
“It doesn’t matter if you figure out my motives or not, I don’t expect you to. You are too wrapped up in your own little bubble, thinking you are the navel of the world. But come Night of Honor, my pet, you will understand two things. One, you are only a man. Two, all men must die”
In perfect synchronisation HYDRA replied: Valar morghulis.
No time for defeat.
DON'T STOP ME NOW [LIKE A TIGER DEFYING THE LAWS OF GRAVITY]
[Garrison, New York]
How she hated this. Sitting still and waiting for someone, who probably thought they were so much smarter, trying to fix her life for her. And that while nothing was wrong with her life in the first place. She made good money. She was a successful business woman. And most importantly she was an amazing mother.
Which still surprises me.
They were sitting in this expensive office for the last ten minutes, awaiting the arrival of the lawyer that Mark had picked. She left this to him because it was clear beforehand she would have reacted way too emotional.
About two weeks ago there was a letter in the mail. A letter that didn’t look like much, but pushed all the right buttons. Even after reading it another time the anger was still present. Other parents started to file a petition against Elena DeDraca, or better said her little daughter. And while Elena was used to dislike, jealousy and what not- it never affected her daughter Isabella. If anyone had a deathwish, that was the right thing to do. To cut a long story short, they wanted her gone from the school she currently was attending. Why? Because her mother dared to shoot against one of the botox barbies.
And I would do it again, bitch.
When the lawyer finally joined them, it was obvious that Elena was nervous. It was odd, she could speak in front of thousands of people- but such situations still triggered her. He carried some files that were accurately placed on the massive desk. He gave each of them a welcoming smile, extending his hand.
“These accusations, Miss DeDraca, are hilarious and scary at the same time.”
Elena looked at him, but her expression was cut of stone. She had her arms crossed in front of her chest.
“The people that started the petition obviously have a huge problem with you as a person. This isn’t about your daughter, this is all about you. From not accurate clothing style, to setting your former husband on fire. How ridiculous… .”
“But I did.”
“What?!”
For a long moment she didn’t respond. She continued to sit there with her green eyes observing him intensively. It seemed like they had switched positions just then. Small sweat pearls forming on his forehead. He tried to whistand her look, but could hardly. To find himself an exit, he looked over the files again.
“I said - I did. But what those dried up witches didn’t mention- it was for a match. I am not sure you have prepared yourself in the right way. I am a professional wrestler. Which means, when I set people on fire, it is for a purpose. Now we could have a discussion about this, but I doubt you would understand. So it is no accusation that I set Cyrus on fire, it is a fact. He broke my heart, I broke him.”
There was a sly grin on Mark’s face, but he tried to hide it. He was the calm pole that she needed, trying to get a hold of the situation.
“My wife is one of the best competitors in this business, Charles. But it is only a job, you understand? This has nothing to do with the way we live, or how Isabella gets raised. Elena is a wonderful mother and does her best to fit a very busy lifestyle together. So if anyone wants to come for her, they will have to deal with the consequences. Even if it's the wife of Garrison’s mayors, or whatever else he is.”
“Rich. That is what he is, hence he has a wife that is half his age. But that is besides the point, darling, we came to you- to find out if we can do anything against this. I don’t think my daughter deserves to be punished because someone is on an ego trip.”
The lawyer was still trying to focus on the files. Once more he was reading one of the texts, taking his time to fully understand. On those papers there were more stories about Elena and they probably were all true. But out of the wrong context.
“If you want my professional opinion, which is why you came, I would not try to fight those females. They are like hyenas… “
“Look like them too… “
“The truth is, you probably should take your daughter and place her in another school. She seems like a smart young girl and will make it everywhere.”
Mark looked over to Elena, not sure of how she would react to this. It was something he had mentioned the other day and it didn’t go well. They needed new plates afterwards, but that was the least of his worries. He wanted to reach out for her hand, but immediately noticed the growing tension in her body.
“So what you tell me, basically, is to just give it up? Move on and let them have a piss fest on my behalf. Is that what you are saying?”
“I wouldn’t formulate it that way… “
“No, you wouldn’t. Because you are well educated and are paid to speak in a language that normal people understand. But I tell you this, Charly, even without a college degree I notice a few things. You are a wuss. Or you are involved with those people and are scared you will lose whatever might they have given you.”
Elena was still sitting in that leather chair, but it was obvious that she was close to jump over the table. Much to Mark’s surprise she didn’t. It still impressed her how much she had changed over the past years, but then again she kinda didn’t. She was still that force of nature, but had a better outlaw for those emotions.
“All my life I have met people like you. Pretending they know better than me, belittling me and what I stand for. But just like the rest you will come to realize that I am made of a different wood. I was ready to let the insults towards my person slip, I got thick skin. But when it comes to my daughter, those women sealed their own fate. If you piss in my cereal, man, I will make you eat them. In front of my eyes.”
Her attention wandered towards Mark, who wore that apologetic smile on his face.
“I came here because you thought it was a good idea. But we agreed that if it doesn’t work, we do this my way.”
“I love your way, my love.”
The couple simultaneously got up from their chairs and looked at the lawyer. The man looked slightly puzzled and a little scared.
Good.
“I think we are done here. You might be a good puppy and report back to those that pay you for your services. But also let them know this: We are only getting started.”
Without waiting for his response Elena had grabbed her bag and was on her way out. Mark followed on foot, but looked at the eldery guy once more.
“They don’t know who they are messing with.”
They never did.
ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST [HEY I’M GONNA GET YOU TOO]
[Tokyo, Japan]
She had arrived. In a land that was so strange and yet so familiar. In many ways Japan reminded her of England. The variety of different people and their strange ideas. A little bit it felt like coming home. But it wasn't. It was her next battleground. A place to decide an ongoing war. About herself but mainly about the LEGACY title that was resting in her suitcase.
After arriving at the hotel and settling herself for a while, Elena had decided to make some moves. She had received a few addresses from Shawna, with the note: Places to visit. She had gone through the list several times but her decision was made days ago.
The Edo Castle.
Considering it was still pretty early in the morning, the place was almost empty. For a long while she admired the architecture. Running her fingertips over the building materials, soaking in the history created. After walking around for a while she decided to find herself a spot. Right underneath one of the huge trees, sinking down in her usual graceful manner.
“Peaceful, isn’t it? But if those walls could talk, words would turn into screams. History might sound like a boring thing to put your focus on, but it includes all of us. Even someone as fragile as Jason Long.”
Elena would inhale the not so fresh air. Her eyes were closed, but her mouth was still moving.
“Where to start and where to finish when it comes to you, man? You are riding a wave of success that some people can’t even imagine. But now comes the down part, even with everything you achieve, you are still some sort of joke. Now hear me out, because this sounds way more harsh than it was meant. Probably. For months, I don’t know how long because I didn’t pay enough attention, someone stalks your girlfriend. I am not even sure why, she isn’t all that special. But I guess Arik has a thing for airheads in distress. But that's besides the point, love, it happened. Right before your eyes. Not only did you fail to protect her, or figure out the obvious, but you also showed your biggest weakness. You have no spine. Not quite sure how you still walk on two legs, but that was the message sent.”
“But even worse, that motherfucker stabs you on live television and then what? He walks out like nothing has happened. I get it. You were hurt and all that shit, but what about the moment you returned? I can tell you this, if anyone harmed a person I loved or myself- there would be hell to pay. I would rip them apart. But that is only me. I consider with you being thirty-something-minutes dead, things change. And although I must inform you that is medically impossible, unless you remain with a damaged brain, it all adds up well for your story. I mean, how much better can it become? Returning from the dead and getting the most prestigious title in this company. Well done, Jason. I get it you wanna make a big deal of yourself, but you lose focus on what really matters. This is not some fantasy novel, darling, this is your life. So no matter how many people pat you on the shoulder mumbling welcome back, this is where your story ends.”
She finally opened her eyes, scanning over the landscape. It was a sight to see, but in the end it was like every other place she had visited.
“But enough about your leech of a girlfriend and the strange obsession she has for attention. This is about you and me. A match for the record books. You refer to yourself as the King. But that leaves me with one question: King of what? Honor? Hardly. Wrestling? Don’t tickle my funny bone. Sure you set records in the company, but I hardly spot it as an achievement winning titles from people that are half out of the circus. You faced some real talent, but how did that go for you? Not always as planned, huh? Then the going gets tough, you show your true colours. You are the type, just like Syndicate, you mostly operate on ego. Which leaves me amused and annoyed at the same time. I said it before and I will gladly remind you, I am not impressed. I am no Kayla. I am no Syndicate. I am the person to beat. And no matter how many times you tell yourself, you are not ready for the next level.”
“Ever since I made my debut in Project Honor, after almost two years not stepping inside a ring, I have been the dominant force. Deny that as much as you want, but the truth is hard to ignore. I didn’t need to talk myself up, because my record speaks for itself. And even though someone like Shawn Warstein managed to beat me, he couldn’t live with the pressure. Just like you, which is hilarious, his ego couldn’t take that I was still the talk of town, no matter if I won or lost. That is the huge difference between myself and most people on this roster. I shine. Always. Brighter than the rest and hotter than the fire Pyro creates. So humour me, doll, tell me how on earth you think you can overcome the legacy that is Elena DeDraca?”
In her typical manner she rolled her neck several times, waiting for the cracking noise. And it came. The stiffness in her neck was immediately gone.
“I will not deny the fact that you are a talented young man, but what does it change? There are so many talented people in this company. No one gives them a second thought though. No matter how many titles you win, you will never be one they remember. Why? Because you are just a rip off of every second guy that ever entered this industry. There is nothing unique about you. Everything you ramble about has been said at least a thousand times. People like you fill the history books, but when you mention their name to the audience you get that puzzled expression in return. That is what divides good from great. That is what differs me from you, buttercup. No matter the odds, I will overcome them. I don’t tug tail and run. But then again I am not even sure you still have a tail to tug in the first place. Seems like someone took that when they left you for dead. I understand this has been a traumatic experience, but like I always say: Get your shit together.”
“But all jokes aside, you are one adorable motherfucker. Even if you got a little bit of a square face, there is something about you. You are the type of shithead one wants to pull aside, cuddle till they are black and blue. And that is what I will do. But my type of cuddling might be slightly different from what you receive from Savannah. Bones could break, old wounds could be reopened. You see, Jason, I am one for honesty. No playing games or hiding shit. What you see is what you get. And while the outside might even look angelic, there is more than meets the eye. An unsatisfied hunger for violence and pain. And again while many say that to come across edgy, for me it is my way of living. My credo if you want. And it is that unsatisfied hunger that has brought me here, given me this. That unsatisfied hunger has pushed me to the top and it is at the top I stand and say - Elena DeDraca is Project Honor. Elena DeDraca lives and breathes Project Honor. Elena DeDraca is the LEGACY Division. Since day one.”
The smile on her face was filled with pride, but there was something more in it. Dangerous and daring. Elena took a moment before she continued, running her fingers through her hair.
“Which brings me to a word you are probably not familiar with. Loyalty. You heard it before, but I am not sure you understand the concept of it. No matter the time that I wrestled for a company, it always had just been that one place. They received my full attention and potential. Now I am aware times change and so do competitors, but you are probably a special case. You are floating around in so many companies these days, collecting titles that no one cares about, acting like you are the big shit. But are you really? Or are you just trying to add to your resume for a later time? And that kind of behaviour makes one thing clear, something the audience noticed long ago. You don’t care about Project Honor. You only care about yourself and what new accessory you can pick up to put around your waist. What is in there for Jason Long? Interrupt me if I am picturing you in the wrong light, but I doubt that will happen. And even though people will say my attitude changed, the Project Honor crowd still stands behind me. Why? Because they can count on me.”
“A crowd can make a difference. Ever heard that? They probably were shocked when you were attacked, but a day later no one spoke about it anymore. Not even with management trying to hype the shit out of it. Which is and was slightly disgusting, but that it is life. They will squeeze you for as long as they can and when they are done? You will land in the trash. But let’s skip the negativity, shall we? I probably said quite some horrible things about you, but as usual I am certain you have an answer. It won’t be accurate, unique or even interesting- but you can’t help yourself. Your mouth always seemed to be quicker than your brain. Despite everything I said, I want you to understand I only try to make you better. As a performer and a man. And honestly and from the bottom of my heart, you need help on both stages. The quick high will never last as long as the long low.”
Finally the first people arrive at the scene. All kinds of nationalities, but three of them stuck out the most. Her girls clearly had made a stop at one of the huge shopping centers. It was Alexandra that carried the most bags. Elena shook her head, but once again seemed rather amused. They were still a good while away, so she returned her focus onto the camera.
“I will not pretend that I am endless, Jason, or that I am invincible. But I am as close as one will come, darling. I haven’t worked this hard to have my LEGACY taken away by just another boy. One foolish enough to think the world of himself, without considering the world doesn’t give a fuck about him. Make of this what you want, but do me one favour. Don’t mistake me for some mediocre doll that will wiggle her tush for you. I will come for you and everything you stand for, whatever that might be. And when I reach you, lovebug, you better have your shit set straight. I will not hesitate to finish the job that Arik Holt started.”
“It is not in my nature to show mercy on my opponents. I have seen too much and been in the centre of the storm one too many times. And while I have zero problem buying you a pint after cleaning the house with you, inside that ring I will rip you another hole. But then again you are used to that by now, right? Stabby Stab and all that.”
“All bad jokes aside, although you left the door open for them, I look forward to this match. Not so much that I expect greatness from you, but to give you a reality check that you desperately need. You need not another person that tells you how great you are, but one that will point out your flaws. So from the bottom of my heart and all that garbage…”
“...you are welcome.”
[Maebashi, Japan] AFTERMATH Proving Ground XXII
The show was still going when Elena DeDraca made it to the backstage area. She was awaited by the rest of HYDRA. The three other girls had those knowing, but also devilish, smiles on their faces. They were all aligned in front of a monitor. The first one applauding her was Lara Chambers, while gently running her fingers over the brought baseball bat. If one thing could be said, they didn’t come unprepared. Elena, who had made her way through the audience, joined them with a smile.
“Message sent.”
“Did you see the confusion on the boy's face? It was adorable. For a moment I thought he would come up and hug your ass.”
“I might have to rewatch, darling. I was a little busy kicking Swindle’s head off. Poor nugget, this really wasn't anything personal. A classic “Wrong place, wrong time” scenario.”
They were busy chatting with each other as another person appeared in the picture. Project Honor’s own backstage interviewer, Crystal Ward. Elena looked at her from the side, probably making a decision at this very moment. It wouldn’t have been the first time an interviewer had to feel the wrath of Hydra for asking the wrong things. Thankfully she was in good spirits though.
”Can I get a moment of your time, Elena?”
“I don’t know, can you?”
The girl immediately took a step back which caused the Fist of Hydra to laugh. Right behind her the group had formatted, blocking her exit.
“Say what you have to say, time is short… and so is my patience.”
”Just moments ago you attacked Swindle Shelldrake. Now the big question is: Why?”
“The core of this is so easy, too easy- so I don’t expect people to see it. I went out there, because I could. But most importantly, didn’t you see it? Jason Long, the almighty, obviously needs all the help he can get. He can act tough all he wants, he is nothing more than a fat kid in the Candyland. He will do everything for attention. And I literally mean - everything.”
”Jason Long is your upcoming opponent. Someone that already had a lot of success in the company. Wouldn’t you have done better weakening him out there...
Elena itook a step closer. She looked at the young female from head to toe. The look on her face was unimpressed, even a little disgusted. The rest of Hydra hadn’t moved an inch.
“Attack him? What for? I am not the type of champion that needs to take out her opponents before an important match. I haven’t done that in the past and certainly won’t start doing so now. But at points you have to remind people of who is running the place. It doesn’t matter to me how many titles Jason has won, or will keep winning. There is one, the Legacy title, that will not be on this list. Not till I am ready to step away.”
Once more the interviewer was ready to interrupt, but Elena was faster than her. With a quick move she ripped the microphone out of her hands, looking directly into the camera.
“Aren’t you tired of always being the victim, Jason? You and your girlfriend both. You got big mouths, but nothing to back it up. I am the ONLY Legacy champion that will ever matter. I like to create chaos, because that is my motivation. You can doubt me as much as you want, but words are only words. While you are busy playing your kindergarten games, I will always be ten steps ahead of you. Because that is my job.”
Another pause. Another smile. Another look towards Crystal Ward, who looked very uncomfortable at this point. It was Deirdre Evans who stood the closest to her. Letting out a small growl.
“It doesn’t matter if you figure out my motives or not, I don’t expect you to. You are too wrapped up in your own little bubble, thinking you are the navel of the world. But come Night of Honor, my pet, you will understand two things. One, you are only a man. Two, all men must die”
In perfect synchronisation HYDRA replied: Valar morghulis.
No time for defeat.
DON'T STOP ME NOW [LIKE A TIGER DEFYING THE LAWS OF GRAVITY]
[Garrison, New York]
How she hated this. Sitting still and waiting for someone, who probably thought they were so much smarter, trying to fix her life for her. And that while nothing was wrong with her life in the first place. She made good money. She was a successful business woman. And most importantly she was an amazing mother.
Which still surprises me.
They were sitting in this expensive office for the last ten minutes, awaiting the arrival of the lawyer that Mark had picked. She left this to him because it was clear beforehand she would have reacted way too emotional.
About two weeks ago there was a letter in the mail. A letter that didn’t look like much, but pushed all the right buttons. Even after reading it another time the anger was still present. Other parents started to file a petition against Elena DeDraca, or better said her little daughter. And while Elena was used to dislike, jealousy and what not- it never affected her daughter Isabella. If anyone had a deathwish, that was the right thing to do. To cut a long story short, they wanted her gone from the school she currently was attending. Why? Because her mother dared to shoot against one of the botox barbies.
And I would do it again, bitch.
When the lawyer finally joined them, it was obvious that Elena was nervous. It was odd, she could speak in front of thousands of people- but such situations still triggered her. He carried some files that were accurately placed on the massive desk. He gave each of them a welcoming smile, extending his hand.
“These accusations, Miss DeDraca, are hilarious and scary at the same time.”
Elena looked at him, but her expression was cut of stone. She had her arms crossed in front of her chest.
“The people that started the petition obviously have a huge problem with you as a person. This isn’t about your daughter, this is all about you. From not accurate clothing style, to setting your former husband on fire. How ridiculous… .”
“But I did.”
“What?!”
For a long moment she didn’t respond. She continued to sit there with her green eyes observing him intensively. It seemed like they had switched positions just then. Small sweat pearls forming on his forehead. He tried to whistand her look, but could hardly. To find himself an exit, he looked over the files again.
“I said - I did. But what those dried up witches didn’t mention- it was for a match. I am not sure you have prepared yourself in the right way. I am a professional wrestler. Which means, when I set people on fire, it is for a purpose. Now we could have a discussion about this, but I doubt you would understand. So it is no accusation that I set Cyrus on fire, it is a fact. He broke my heart, I broke him.”
There was a sly grin on Mark’s face, but he tried to hide it. He was the calm pole that she needed, trying to get a hold of the situation.
“My wife is one of the best competitors in this business, Charles. But it is only a job, you understand? This has nothing to do with the way we live, or how Isabella gets raised. Elena is a wonderful mother and does her best to fit a very busy lifestyle together. So if anyone wants to come for her, they will have to deal with the consequences. Even if it's the wife of Garrison’s mayors, or whatever else he is.”
“Rich. That is what he is, hence he has a wife that is half his age. But that is besides the point, darling, we came to you- to find out if we can do anything against this. I don’t think my daughter deserves to be punished because someone is on an ego trip.”
The lawyer was still trying to focus on the files. Once more he was reading one of the texts, taking his time to fully understand. On those papers there were more stories about Elena and they probably were all true. But out of the wrong context.
“If you want my professional opinion, which is why you came, I would not try to fight those females. They are like hyenas… “
“Look like them too… “
“The truth is, you probably should take your daughter and place her in another school. She seems like a smart young girl and will make it everywhere.”
Mark looked over to Elena, not sure of how she would react to this. It was something he had mentioned the other day and it didn’t go well. They needed new plates afterwards, but that was the least of his worries. He wanted to reach out for her hand, but immediately noticed the growing tension in her body.
“So what you tell me, basically, is to just give it up? Move on and let them have a piss fest on my behalf. Is that what you are saying?”
“I wouldn’t formulate it that way… “
“No, you wouldn’t. Because you are well educated and are paid to speak in a language that normal people understand. But I tell you this, Charly, even without a college degree I notice a few things. You are a wuss. Or you are involved with those people and are scared you will lose whatever might they have given you.”
Elena was still sitting in that leather chair, but it was obvious that she was close to jump over the table. Much to Mark’s surprise she didn’t. It still impressed her how much she had changed over the past years, but then again she kinda didn’t. She was still that force of nature, but had a better outlaw for those emotions.
“All my life I have met people like you. Pretending they know better than me, belittling me and what I stand for. But just like the rest you will come to realize that I am made of a different wood. I was ready to let the insults towards my person slip, I got thick skin. But when it comes to my daughter, those women sealed their own fate. If you piss in my cereal, man, I will make you eat them. In front of my eyes.”
Her attention wandered towards Mark, who wore that apologetic smile on his face.
“I came here because you thought it was a good idea. But we agreed that if it doesn’t work, we do this my way.”
“I love your way, my love.”
The couple simultaneously got up from their chairs and looked at the lawyer. The man looked slightly puzzled and a little scared.
Good.
“I think we are done here. You might be a good puppy and report back to those that pay you for your services. But also let them know this: We are only getting started.”
Without waiting for his response Elena had grabbed her bag and was on her way out. Mark followed on foot, but looked at the eldery guy once more.
“They don’t know who they are messing with.”
They never did.
ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST [HEY I’M GONNA GET YOU TOO]
[Tokyo, Japan]
She had arrived. In a land that was so strange and yet so familiar. In many ways Japan reminded her of England. The variety of different people and their strange ideas. A little bit it felt like coming home. But it wasn't. It was her next battleground. A place to decide an ongoing war. About herself but mainly about the LEGACY title that was resting in her suitcase.
After arriving at the hotel and settling herself for a while, Elena had decided to make some moves. She had received a few addresses from Shawna, with the note: Places to visit. She had gone through the list several times but her decision was made days ago.
The Edo Castle.
Considering it was still pretty early in the morning, the place was almost empty. For a long while she admired the architecture. Running her fingertips over the building materials, soaking in the history created. After walking around for a while she decided to find herself a spot. Right underneath one of the huge trees, sinking down in her usual graceful manner.
“Peaceful, isn’t it? But if those walls could talk, words would turn into screams. History might sound like a boring thing to put your focus on, but it includes all of us. Even someone as fragile as Jason Long.”
Elena would inhale the not so fresh air. Her eyes were closed, but her mouth was still moving.
“Where to start and where to finish when it comes to you, man? You are riding a wave of success that some people can’t even imagine. But now comes the down part, even with everything you achieve, you are still some sort of joke. Now hear me out, because this sounds way more harsh than it was meant. Probably. For months, I don’t know how long because I didn’t pay enough attention, someone stalks your girlfriend. I am not even sure why, she isn’t all that special. But I guess Arik has a thing for airheads in distress. But that's besides the point, love, it happened. Right before your eyes. Not only did you fail to protect her, or figure out the obvious, but you also showed your biggest weakness. You have no spine. Not quite sure how you still walk on two legs, but that was the message sent.”
“But even worse, that motherfucker stabs you on live television and then what? He walks out like nothing has happened. I get it. You were hurt and all that shit, but what about the moment you returned? I can tell you this, if anyone harmed a person I loved or myself- there would be hell to pay. I would rip them apart. But that is only me. I consider with you being thirty-something-minutes dead, things change. And although I must inform you that is medically impossible, unless you remain with a damaged brain, it all adds up well for your story. I mean, how much better can it become? Returning from the dead and getting the most prestigious title in this company. Well done, Jason. I get it you wanna make a big deal of yourself, but you lose focus on what really matters. This is not some fantasy novel, darling, this is your life. So no matter how many people pat you on the shoulder mumbling welcome back, this is where your story ends.”
She finally opened her eyes, scanning over the landscape. It was a sight to see, but in the end it was like every other place she had visited.
“But enough about your leech of a girlfriend and the strange obsession she has for attention. This is about you and me. A match for the record books. You refer to yourself as the King. But that leaves me with one question: King of what? Honor? Hardly. Wrestling? Don’t tickle my funny bone. Sure you set records in the company, but I hardly spot it as an achievement winning titles from people that are half out of the circus. You faced some real talent, but how did that go for you? Not always as planned, huh? Then the going gets tough, you show your true colours. You are the type, just like Syndicate, you mostly operate on ego. Which leaves me amused and annoyed at the same time. I said it before and I will gladly remind you, I am not impressed. I am no Kayla. I am no Syndicate. I am the person to beat. And no matter how many times you tell yourself, you are not ready for the next level.”
“Ever since I made my debut in Project Honor, after almost two years not stepping inside a ring, I have been the dominant force. Deny that as much as you want, but the truth is hard to ignore. I didn’t need to talk myself up, because my record speaks for itself. And even though someone like Shawn Warstein managed to beat me, he couldn’t live with the pressure. Just like you, which is hilarious, his ego couldn’t take that I was still the talk of town, no matter if I won or lost. That is the huge difference between myself and most people on this roster. I shine. Always. Brighter than the rest and hotter than the fire Pyro creates. So humour me, doll, tell me how on earth you think you can overcome the legacy that is Elena DeDraca?”
In her typical manner she rolled her neck several times, waiting for the cracking noise. And it came. The stiffness in her neck was immediately gone.
“I will not deny the fact that you are a talented young man, but what does it change? There are so many talented people in this company. No one gives them a second thought though. No matter how many titles you win, you will never be one they remember. Why? Because you are just a rip off of every second guy that ever entered this industry. There is nothing unique about you. Everything you ramble about has been said at least a thousand times. People like you fill the history books, but when you mention their name to the audience you get that puzzled expression in return. That is what divides good from great. That is what differs me from you, buttercup. No matter the odds, I will overcome them. I don’t tug tail and run. But then again I am not even sure you still have a tail to tug in the first place. Seems like someone took that when they left you for dead. I understand this has been a traumatic experience, but like I always say: Get your shit together.”
“But all jokes aside, you are one adorable motherfucker. Even if you got a little bit of a square face, there is something about you. You are the type of shithead one wants to pull aside, cuddle till they are black and blue. And that is what I will do. But my type of cuddling might be slightly different from what you receive from Savannah. Bones could break, old wounds could be reopened. You see, Jason, I am one for honesty. No playing games or hiding shit. What you see is what you get. And while the outside might even look angelic, there is more than meets the eye. An unsatisfied hunger for violence and pain. And again while many say that to come across edgy, for me it is my way of living. My credo if you want. And it is that unsatisfied hunger that has brought me here, given me this. That unsatisfied hunger has pushed me to the top and it is at the top I stand and say - Elena DeDraca is Project Honor. Elena DeDraca lives and breathes Project Honor. Elena DeDraca is the LEGACY Division. Since day one.”
The smile on her face was filled with pride, but there was something more in it. Dangerous and daring. Elena took a moment before she continued, running her fingers through her hair.
“Which brings me to a word you are probably not familiar with. Loyalty. You heard it before, but I am not sure you understand the concept of it. No matter the time that I wrestled for a company, it always had just been that one place. They received my full attention and potential. Now I am aware times change and so do competitors, but you are probably a special case. You are floating around in so many companies these days, collecting titles that no one cares about, acting like you are the big shit. But are you really? Or are you just trying to add to your resume for a later time? And that kind of behaviour makes one thing clear, something the audience noticed long ago. You don’t care about Project Honor. You only care about yourself and what new accessory you can pick up to put around your waist. What is in there for Jason Long? Interrupt me if I am picturing you in the wrong light, but I doubt that will happen. And even though people will say my attitude changed, the Project Honor crowd still stands behind me. Why? Because they can count on me.”
“A crowd can make a difference. Ever heard that? They probably were shocked when you were attacked, but a day later no one spoke about it anymore. Not even with management trying to hype the shit out of it. Which is and was slightly disgusting, but that it is life. They will squeeze you for as long as they can and when they are done? You will land in the trash. But let’s skip the negativity, shall we? I probably said quite some horrible things about you, but as usual I am certain you have an answer. It won’t be accurate, unique or even interesting- but you can’t help yourself. Your mouth always seemed to be quicker than your brain. Despite everything I said, I want you to understand I only try to make you better. As a performer and a man. And honestly and from the bottom of my heart, you need help on both stages. The quick high will never last as long as the long low.”
Finally the first people arrive at the scene. All kinds of nationalities, but three of them stuck out the most. Her girls clearly had made a stop at one of the huge shopping centers. It was Alexandra that carried the most bags. Elena shook her head, but once again seemed rather amused. They were still a good while away, so she returned her focus onto the camera.
“I will not pretend that I am endless, Jason, or that I am invincible. But I am as close as one will come, darling. I haven’t worked this hard to have my LEGACY taken away by just another boy. One foolish enough to think the world of himself, without considering the world doesn’t give a fuck about him. Make of this what you want, but do me one favour. Don’t mistake me for some mediocre doll that will wiggle her tush for you. I will come for you and everything you stand for, whatever that might be. And when I reach you, lovebug, you better have your shit set straight. I will not hesitate to finish the job that Arik Holt started.”
“It is not in my nature to show mercy on my opponents. I have seen too much and been in the centre of the storm one too many times. And while I have zero problem buying you a pint after cleaning the house with you, inside that ring I will rip you another hole. But then again you are used to that by now, right? Stabby Stab and all that.”
“All bad jokes aside, although you left the door open for them, I look forward to this match. Not so much that I expect greatness from you, but to give you a reality check that you desperately need. You need not another person that tells you how great you are, but one that will point out your flaws. So from the bottom of my heart and all that garbage…”
“...you are welcome.”
