Post by gothmother on Dec 16, 2020 12:27:53 GMT -5
THE LOOK [BROKEN HEARTS AND NO GLUE]
[London, England]
Things will happen while they can. It was almost impossible to foresee the future, especially if it was your own. Elena was the last person that believed in something like fate and that your story was already written. Yet, there were things that fitted the life she chose- without her really choosing. To cut a long story short, Elena DeDraca was a tragic figure. No matter how glamorous she seemed to be these days, there were things you couldn’t just wash off.
But would you?
No. The answer was so simple that it had to be true. She couldn’t glue back together all the broken glass she left on her way. Couldn’t mend all the hearts she had broken, or destroy all her demons. The same ones that kept visiting her every single night, no matter if she was awake or fast asleep. And even with that she had made her peace. There was this little, perfect, family that she could come home to. Those that would never judge her and most importantly- they never expected anything of her. She didn’t have to be strong or win titles- function as some would say. She could just be Elena in those sweatpants with the messy hair and without make-up.
Just like the girl that walked down the streets of Blackpool over 15 years ago. She came from nothing and there was no illusion about the way she would leave this world. Pissed off and raging, but with empty pockets.
Your last shirt has no pockets, my lady.
A certain melancholy filled her chest when walking down those streets again and even though so much had changed, nothing really had. There was heavy rain falling down on her, like a little welcome back gift. There were new shops and they tried to pretty up the area- without much success. If Essex was the mecca for odd and trashy people, Blackpool was heaven for fighters and beginner criminals. At a certain point she was both of it. Oh yes, and homeless.
Life wasn't always good to Elena. Well it wasn't at all to be honest- but she eventually grew out of feeling self pity. A bright smile covered her face when she kicked the gym door open. It took around 3 seconds before she felt embarrassment overwhelming her. The walls were covered with pictures of her and a few other, former students that made it big. Including Alex and the lady that greeted her from afar.
She doesn’t age, bish.
Lara Chambers. The red haired vixen was fully in her element- screaming at students. The funny thing though? The smile on her face. It was easily visible which of those younglings would break under the pressure. Which was the only point of this treatment. If anyone would know it was Elena. More than once she was close to giving up, her body hurting in areas she wasn't aware of having. For a long moment she watched Lara doing her job, crossing her arms in front of her chest. Still smiling.
“You don’t have to kill them. Yet.”
She yelled over towards her friend, mostly to get her off balance. The students finally noticed that they had a viewer, some of them starting to whisper towards each other. She heard her name several times, which brought Lara back on track.
“Did I tell you to stop? No. Which means you go through the whole program again, but first...a run around the building. The long route.”
“But it’s raining…”
“Two rounds for you then, dummy. Class is dismissed.”
She didn’t pay them any more attention; instead she grabbed one of the fresh towels, walking towards The Fist of Hydra. They would hug for a moment, before Lara wrapped the towel around her neck where sweat had begun to form from showing the light instructions she had to teach. Elena watched her every move with slight-narrowed eyes.
“Come for a lesson?”
Lara said, jokingly but tried to keep on a serious face. Her full attention rested on her friend, trying to read her expression. Or to see if there was any.
“It wouldn’t hurt but no, not today. I was just in the area and thought I might find you here. Okay. I called yesterday to see if you are here. Why is it that I can’t ever lie around you? All you have to do is look at me and I start to ramble.”
“Intimidation or charm? Or you’re scared that I will chain you up and get the truth one way or another.”
Both girls laughed for a moment before walking towards the wooden benches. Even though a lot was made new inside the gym, the smell was still the same. Some would find it disgusting as it was strongly scented after sweat and even blood, but not those that grew up here. For them it was one of the best smells possibly. They would sit down right next to each other, stretching out their legs.
“I heard of your mother’s passing and the funeral. I’m so sorry. I would have come had I known.”
Lara said, softly.
“I trust the funeral was okay?”
Her eyes flashed up to Elena, hoping that her inquiry pushed her to open. Lara knew. She knew it all. But she wanted Elena to speak up. Something she had done so many times and never failed. Lara Chambers had all the abilities to be pushy, but she managed to do it her way. The dark haired woman looked down on the floor, holding her breath. Although it was expected that this question would come, it was hard to find the right response.
“It was good. I mean as good as a funeral can be. People had the chance to say goodbye and share their stories. I did my part, stood there and listened. And probably did the worst eulogy in history. But I guess that was to be expected. I am no good with that kind of stuff.”
Elena tried to smile. She was fully aware that Lara saw right through it but that was so far from the point. They knew each other well enough that neither of them would point out the others flaws. She had already decided it was time for a subject change.
Let me pretend.
“Have you recently heard from Pixie? She kinda ghosted social media and it’s almost impossible to reach her via phone or anything.”
There was honest concern in Elena’s voice. Alexandra Kelly aka The Pixie was what she considered her best friend for a long time. Also her saviour to a degree. It was her that picked this pale girl from the streets of London, bringing her to the United States. Giving her a chance. A lot of things had changed in the past years, including Alex becoming a mother and stepping away from the ring. One thing neither of them ever expected.
Lara let the silence linger for a moment. Her thoughts racing inside of her mind, but she would eventually shake her head subtly.
“No, I haven’t heard from her in some time. But that is nothing uncommon for a mother. Life gets busy, especially knowing the child is almost two. You know about that, love.”
Elena allowed her words to sink into her mind, nodding her head agreeing with that. An oversight on her part, letting the feeling of missing her Pixie cloud her, otherwise, sharp mind for that.
“I also watched your last match. Even showed it to my students. You and Lazarus had a match that could be considered a ‘classic’. And you worry you miss a beat?”
She scoffed, but laughed a little at the end. Elena placed her hand on the back of her neck, rubbing it gently. It was still a bit sour from the run that Lazarus gave her. But one thing caught her attention immediately. Laz? Her eyes scanned over her friend's facial expression, trying to find the answer she was looking for.
“How do you know the boy? And don’t you dare deny it, Chambers. You called him Laz. Sure this could mean nothing but we’re British. We don’t usually shorten names. And I saw that damn grin. So spit it out.”
“You know me, Elena. I keep an eye out for talent. He wrestled in Denmark and the Netherlands for almost a year before he was found and scouted. I saw him then. He was a good deathmatch guy. I didn’t expect a good, technical match between you two though.”
She referred to Proving Grounds Eight and the first singles match in Elena’s career since her return. A match where Elena made the deathmatch wrestler tap out at the end. To be fair, Elena didn’t expect it either. Not that she doubted he was capable of it, but it wasn't his style. Like you couldn’t transform a submissionist into a highflyer. Well, you could try- but most of the time it ended badly.
“I am kinda sad to see him go. I understand it fully though, if a place isn’t what you are looking for- why waste your time? I will be honest, I am not a hundred percent sure about Project Honor myself. I mean, I do my job and I know I am pretty good. But do they know? It feels like they are too busy pushing certain people down everyone’s throat. Its dumb and a waste of good talent.”
She nodded her head, knowing that story all too well during her time being active in the industry.
“Nepotism runs wild in the industry, Elena. You know that just as much as I do. When a company is founded, the building blocks are generally already picked well in advance. When new people are introduced, even people with a reputation such as yourself, sometimes they go against the grain of the vision of the company. You and I are alike. We always went against the grain. We never fit into the mold they wanted for the company. So we kick ass and leave our mark, no matter who is in the company. Friends. Family. Fuck them. If they stand in your way, you leave them laying. That is what you have to do in order to earn the respect that you should have been given from the get go. Tag team matches to introduce you, someone who’s been champion time and time again? That’s bullshit. The match with Lazarus opened eyes and your next will make people notice.”
Once more Elena allowed the words to sink, giving it time to unfold inside her head. There weren’t many people she listened to, mostly because of being stubborn, but Lara always hit the right spots. Not only inside a ring or cage.
“I know. You, me or even Pixie- we never went the easy way. No matter how successful we were, they would still bet against us. Mostly because we didn’t kneel down and kiss ass. I am fully aware a lot of things would have been way easier in my career- but who cares about easy? Whatever I gained in this career, I did by myself. And even though Project Honor doesn’t understand this well enough, there will come a moment when running ain’t an option anymore. Same goes for Drago. He can keep up his attitude for as long as we stand in front of each other. I won’t wait till he is ready to hit, that’s a fact.”
Lara let out a husky laughter before smashing her friend on her back. It was supposed to be friendly, but the girl just couldn’t hit in a soft way. Elena tried her best to not cough.
“I know you by now. I know you will make them respect you by your actions in the ring. Time for playing nice is over, and you never really were that good at it when it came to what happens in the ring. You made Lazarus tap out, and you will do worse to Drago. Do they think you are scared by a little barbed wire? It will be your playground. Project Honor needs to learn the hard way that Elena DeDraca is back and she wants the entire world in her hand. The barbed wire may rip your flesh, but that is nothing new. But as much as it rips into yours, make it rip away that much more from Drago. Spilling his blood will be the catalyst for the reemergence of The Fist of Hydra.”
The two would sit like this for a long time, debating strategies and forgetting about them again. But for Elena it was important to come here today, if she knew it or not. It was one thing to hear she was ready for this, once again, but now she also felt it. Lara was known for her sharp tongue and disability to sugarcoat. Considering how many ass kissers this business had, it was kinda refreshing.
I came to get hurt. Might as well do your worst to me. ~ Get Hurt by the Gaslight Anthem
LEAVES YOU COLD [SNOWFLAKES EVERYWHERE]
[Denver, Colorado]
Silence was golden, right? So often silence said more than words ever could. There were different reasons why people kept their mouths shut, but neither of them did matter. Not in a business like this. Not in a company like Project Honor. And certainly never to someone like Elena DeDraca. A professional competitor. Personal feelings and situations didn’t interfere with that mindset. If there was a job to do, there was zero chance she would fail. Something the wrestling world knew. Something everyone on the roster should know by now- but then again their ignorance was telling another tale.
And just because she took her job serious and wasn't one to cause a scene she kept her mouth shut. Again. For way too long probably. And even though every fibre of her body did protest, she accepted things the way they were. Telling herself to see the bigger picture, right? That there were plans for someone like Elena DeDraca. That after all her time of being successful she wasn't an outcast any longer. Yeah. Not her brightest moment.
It’s all about the money, darling.
Where am I? That was her first thought when finding herself sitting downstairs in the lobby. It was the hotel that most wrestlers had chosen to stay at while waiting for Project Honor’s big show. Here and there she saw people passing by that she knew, but Elena wasn't bothered with them. This had nothing to do with being anti- social but everything with being true to yourself. The times when she invested herself in the lives, careers or videogames of other people were long gone. Maybe to a point it was arrogant- but what was anyone gonna do about it? Exactly.
She was once again losing herself in the book she had brought as the concierge of the hotel appeared in front of her. He was letting her know that her table was ready, offering his hand for her to stand up. The look she gave him was priceless before she jumped off her seat, trying to not burst out laughing. The guy hardly seemed in his twenties and a tad bit embarrassed right now. Without further digging into it he would lead her towards the table, somewhere in the back of the restaurant. There was a reason she had picked that table, or would in any other place. Sight. From here she could scan over the crowd without problems and still was left unseen. Like a wild animal in the dark waiting for the right time to attack.
[REC]
“I am not surprised. That is how I kinda started my speeches a lot for the past decade. You go into events and even if you try not to, there are expectations. For one, because the human mind is made like that- but also because there will be stories about people. A lot of factors interfere with reality, but I don’t think that is anything new to you guys. And even though I kept my hopes to a minimum I was greeted with even less. Nothing to be exact. And that is usually what you get when a company is full of shit- no wait let me be exact, when management is full of themselves. And of course there is the aspect of making money. Which kinda is ironic to me, because everyone knows that my name alone sells more tickets than half of the roster. Leave alone what they make with being allowed to sell my merchandise. But that is the point, I never cared about money. Not even when I had nothing I was running after the mighty dollar. There are more important things in life and if this year has taught us something, then it's the fact that you can’t buy them. Week after week you fucked up the opportunities given without so much of an explanation. But still you expect people like me or even my brother to sit here and nod our heads. You want a good reputation and hard work, but you don’t wanna do a damn thing for it. I ask you directly now, do you think we are idiots?”
Elena leaned back in the semi comfortable chair, her eyes wandering over the other people in the room. A few tables away from her she spotted Hannah and Dickie sitting over a pile of pancakes. It was hard to miss the dark shadows underneath her brother’s eyes. Probably from thinking too much and not getting enough sleep. Making himself feel smaller than he was just because the company couldn’t get the job done. A little smile appeared on her face, somewhere behind a hint of pride viewable. He would continue his journey, one way or another.
“I will let that stand without an answer, although we all know there is one. I didn’t think returning after an almost two year pause would be easy. Only fools think that way and you might label me a lot- but for sure not that. I see the way you treat your talent and how you constantly hunt for those new toys. It will eventually bite you in the arse though, I’ve been in this business too long to not know the outcome of this. I will give you an example, shall I? Drago Santiago. The one you tried to hype up for the match against me, and what happened? Nothing. Not one word ever since the match got announced. And let’s be honest with each other for a moment, we all expected more from that charismatic boy. One that is in a constant fight with the world and his own past. I was waiting for those epic speeches and the colourful descriptions about all the things he was gonna do to me. But how little expectations meet reality, or how rarely. There are probably a few options why I was greeted with silence after I fired the first shot. One, cat got his tongue and he didn’t catch it when chasing like a little monkey. Two, he tries to remain mysterious and tickle my right spots. Or three, most likely if you ask me, I pushed the right buttons with what I had to say about him. One of my biggest strengths seems to be to find people's weak spots- and make no mistake, I will attack them merciless.”
“I got no sympathy for slackers. That sums up my mindset the best. I have been giving Project Honor my best and didn’t receive as much as being overlooked. Don’t get your panties twisted though Rock Johnson, I tend to fix my own problems. I am not one to get mad and pull a tantrum, I usually burn shit down. So when treated with ignorance on such a level, don’t be surprised when your talent ends up hurt. Blame my british nature for it, but I got manners. I don’t need you to raise me up or praise me on a daily basis, but I will not allow your sympathy for some people forcing me out. Want another example? A few weeks ago my mother died. None of you unprofessional maggots reached out- but that was fine. But even then I came and performed in front of those people, making your company look strong. Not one word about this anywhere, because we were too busy focusing on a damsel in distress and the guy that saved her. Don’t ever think that my attention is anywhere else. When you fuck up, I will see it- when I am getting to the point, I will call you out on it. You lack professionalism and the whole world is going to see it. I don’t care who on the roster gives staff the hots- but it will become a problem when people, including your champions, don't get the standing they deserve. Think about it.”
She reached over the table to grab her bag obviously searching for something. It didn’t take all too long before she pulled out a black shirt, neatly folded. Another smile. When she unfolded it and showed the front of it the viewer got a chance to read. In bold, purple letters it said: Elena DeDraca- Tired of your shit. In the background her logo was printed.
“I think sometimes a shirt says more than a thousand words, huh? Not only am I going to wear that shirt at the show, but I also will hand them out to fans. Project Honor doesn’t control my actions even though you might think so. This is the first statement of many and you might consider this as starting a movement. A revolution. And darlings, it wouldn’t be the first time I succeed. You can keep protecting your chosen ones. You can keep the focus on those you think deserve it. I got my own ways on drawing attention to my actions. Don’t believe it? Ask every fucking company I’ve ever worked for. It is no secret that I got no filter when you’re bullshitting me. There is Elena DeDraca the mother, wife and sister. Then you got Elena the business woman, the one probably making more money than you can imagine. They are pretty harmless, comforting and welcoming. But you signed Elena DeDraca the fighter. Not that I ever thought that either of you had an idea what that meant. Proving Ground. Fallout. Wherever I end up, you will be left without a choice.”
“Let me return to Drago Santiago once more. Not that he deserves it considering what a lousy job he has done- but that is the game. No worries honey, I am not mad at you. To be fair you are what society made you. No rebel. No creative thought ever past your mind. But that is okay too. We’re not all meant for greatness. We have reached a point though where it doesn’t matter what you have to say. You had your chance and you blew it. I will come for you, dear. I will rip under your skin and turn your world upside down. This has nothing to do with me being a bitch, but everything with you not getting the job done. You have probably heard this before, but that is only an assumption of mine. I will take your tattoos, your sadness and hatred to fuel my own rage. So maybe this is the point where I say thank you.”
She laughed out loud causing a few people to turn their heads. Including Hannah who was ready to jump up- running over. But Dimitri stopped her, nodding towards Elena. He was fully aware of what was going on over there.
“Thank you for once again proving me right. This isn’t Kansas anymore, Toto. The rules have changed so many times that it is hard to keep track. Another reason why I make my own instead of following like a sheep. You want blood. You wanna show the world how tough you are, Drago? Then stop being a boy and take it like a man. I tend to say my fights are nothing personal, but that is only half the truth. Because i will make this very personal- not with you though. But with everyone in Project Honor that hides behind a mask in the form of a desk, making decisions from afar. I will make Drago Santiago an example of what happens when you go deaf on what your roster deserves. What the fans deserve. I find myself in the position to not beg for attention, but demand it. That is the fine line between those that have to make a name for them and those that have done everything necessary. I gave blood, tears and time to this industry. I allowed the audience to live through my biggest hits and failures. And no matter the obstacles, I did it with my head held high. I don’t regret a single moment, even though a lot of things could have gone better. But isn’t that the beauty of life? You can plan but in the end you have to take it the way it comes.”
“Believe it or not up till now I have been playing nice. I allowed you to think that you are in the driver's seat. Watch you wet your jeans because flakes like Kasey Winterborn stepped back into your company. Kept my laughters in when you make someone like Strader, the rip off of this television show, believe he is the big shit. But that is the thing, I can sit in the back and watch. I can observe and wait for my time to strike. Patience is something most of those new folks lack. They want everything and they want it now. And if they don’t get it? They will threaten you or just walk out of the company. Don’t sweat it, Johnson. I am here to stay, if you like it or not.”
“You’re welcome.”
[London, England]
Things will happen while they can. It was almost impossible to foresee the future, especially if it was your own. Elena was the last person that believed in something like fate and that your story was already written. Yet, there were things that fitted the life she chose- without her really choosing. To cut a long story short, Elena DeDraca was a tragic figure. No matter how glamorous she seemed to be these days, there were things you couldn’t just wash off.
But would you?
No. The answer was so simple that it had to be true. She couldn’t glue back together all the broken glass she left on her way. Couldn’t mend all the hearts she had broken, or destroy all her demons. The same ones that kept visiting her every single night, no matter if she was awake or fast asleep. And even with that she had made her peace. There was this little, perfect, family that she could come home to. Those that would never judge her and most importantly- they never expected anything of her. She didn’t have to be strong or win titles- function as some would say. She could just be Elena in those sweatpants with the messy hair and without make-up.
Just like the girl that walked down the streets of Blackpool over 15 years ago. She came from nothing and there was no illusion about the way she would leave this world. Pissed off and raging, but with empty pockets.
Your last shirt has no pockets, my lady.
A certain melancholy filled her chest when walking down those streets again and even though so much had changed, nothing really had. There was heavy rain falling down on her, like a little welcome back gift. There were new shops and they tried to pretty up the area- without much success. If Essex was the mecca for odd and trashy people, Blackpool was heaven for fighters and beginner criminals. At a certain point she was both of it. Oh yes, and homeless.
Life wasn't always good to Elena. Well it wasn't at all to be honest- but she eventually grew out of feeling self pity. A bright smile covered her face when she kicked the gym door open. It took around 3 seconds before she felt embarrassment overwhelming her. The walls were covered with pictures of her and a few other, former students that made it big. Including Alex and the lady that greeted her from afar.
She doesn’t age, bish.
Lara Chambers. The red haired vixen was fully in her element- screaming at students. The funny thing though? The smile on her face. It was easily visible which of those younglings would break under the pressure. Which was the only point of this treatment. If anyone would know it was Elena. More than once she was close to giving up, her body hurting in areas she wasn't aware of having. For a long moment she watched Lara doing her job, crossing her arms in front of her chest. Still smiling.
“You don’t have to kill them. Yet.”
She yelled over towards her friend, mostly to get her off balance. The students finally noticed that they had a viewer, some of them starting to whisper towards each other. She heard her name several times, which brought Lara back on track.
“Did I tell you to stop? No. Which means you go through the whole program again, but first...a run around the building. The long route.”
“But it’s raining…”
“Two rounds for you then, dummy. Class is dismissed.”
She didn’t pay them any more attention; instead she grabbed one of the fresh towels, walking towards The Fist of Hydra. They would hug for a moment, before Lara wrapped the towel around her neck where sweat had begun to form from showing the light instructions she had to teach. Elena watched her every move with slight-narrowed eyes.
“Come for a lesson?”
Lara said, jokingly but tried to keep on a serious face. Her full attention rested on her friend, trying to read her expression. Or to see if there was any.
“It wouldn’t hurt but no, not today. I was just in the area and thought I might find you here. Okay. I called yesterday to see if you are here. Why is it that I can’t ever lie around you? All you have to do is look at me and I start to ramble.”
“Intimidation or charm? Or you’re scared that I will chain you up and get the truth one way or another.”
Both girls laughed for a moment before walking towards the wooden benches. Even though a lot was made new inside the gym, the smell was still the same. Some would find it disgusting as it was strongly scented after sweat and even blood, but not those that grew up here. For them it was one of the best smells possibly. They would sit down right next to each other, stretching out their legs.
“I heard of your mother’s passing and the funeral. I’m so sorry. I would have come had I known.”
Lara said, softly.
“I trust the funeral was okay?”
Her eyes flashed up to Elena, hoping that her inquiry pushed her to open. Lara knew. She knew it all. But she wanted Elena to speak up. Something she had done so many times and never failed. Lara Chambers had all the abilities to be pushy, but she managed to do it her way. The dark haired woman looked down on the floor, holding her breath. Although it was expected that this question would come, it was hard to find the right response.
“It was good. I mean as good as a funeral can be. People had the chance to say goodbye and share their stories. I did my part, stood there and listened. And probably did the worst eulogy in history. But I guess that was to be expected. I am no good with that kind of stuff.”
Elena tried to smile. She was fully aware that Lara saw right through it but that was so far from the point. They knew each other well enough that neither of them would point out the others flaws. She had already decided it was time for a subject change.
Let me pretend.
“Have you recently heard from Pixie? She kinda ghosted social media and it’s almost impossible to reach her via phone or anything.”
There was honest concern in Elena’s voice. Alexandra Kelly aka The Pixie was what she considered her best friend for a long time. Also her saviour to a degree. It was her that picked this pale girl from the streets of London, bringing her to the United States. Giving her a chance. A lot of things had changed in the past years, including Alex becoming a mother and stepping away from the ring. One thing neither of them ever expected.
Lara let the silence linger for a moment. Her thoughts racing inside of her mind, but she would eventually shake her head subtly.
“No, I haven’t heard from her in some time. But that is nothing uncommon for a mother. Life gets busy, especially knowing the child is almost two. You know about that, love.”
Elena allowed her words to sink into her mind, nodding her head agreeing with that. An oversight on her part, letting the feeling of missing her Pixie cloud her, otherwise, sharp mind for that.
“I also watched your last match. Even showed it to my students. You and Lazarus had a match that could be considered a ‘classic’. And you worry you miss a beat?”
She scoffed, but laughed a little at the end. Elena placed her hand on the back of her neck, rubbing it gently. It was still a bit sour from the run that Lazarus gave her. But one thing caught her attention immediately. Laz? Her eyes scanned over her friend's facial expression, trying to find the answer she was looking for.
“How do you know the boy? And don’t you dare deny it, Chambers. You called him Laz. Sure this could mean nothing but we’re British. We don’t usually shorten names. And I saw that damn grin. So spit it out.”
“You know me, Elena. I keep an eye out for talent. He wrestled in Denmark and the Netherlands for almost a year before he was found and scouted. I saw him then. He was a good deathmatch guy. I didn’t expect a good, technical match between you two though.”
She referred to Proving Grounds Eight and the first singles match in Elena’s career since her return. A match where Elena made the deathmatch wrestler tap out at the end. To be fair, Elena didn’t expect it either. Not that she doubted he was capable of it, but it wasn't his style. Like you couldn’t transform a submissionist into a highflyer. Well, you could try- but most of the time it ended badly.
“I am kinda sad to see him go. I understand it fully though, if a place isn’t what you are looking for- why waste your time? I will be honest, I am not a hundred percent sure about Project Honor myself. I mean, I do my job and I know I am pretty good. But do they know? It feels like they are too busy pushing certain people down everyone’s throat. Its dumb and a waste of good talent.”
She nodded her head, knowing that story all too well during her time being active in the industry.
“Nepotism runs wild in the industry, Elena. You know that just as much as I do. When a company is founded, the building blocks are generally already picked well in advance. When new people are introduced, even people with a reputation such as yourself, sometimes they go against the grain of the vision of the company. You and I are alike. We always went against the grain. We never fit into the mold they wanted for the company. So we kick ass and leave our mark, no matter who is in the company. Friends. Family. Fuck them. If they stand in your way, you leave them laying. That is what you have to do in order to earn the respect that you should have been given from the get go. Tag team matches to introduce you, someone who’s been champion time and time again? That’s bullshit. The match with Lazarus opened eyes and your next will make people notice.”
Once more Elena allowed the words to sink, giving it time to unfold inside her head. There weren’t many people she listened to, mostly because of being stubborn, but Lara always hit the right spots. Not only inside a ring or cage.
“I know. You, me or even Pixie- we never went the easy way. No matter how successful we were, they would still bet against us. Mostly because we didn’t kneel down and kiss ass. I am fully aware a lot of things would have been way easier in my career- but who cares about easy? Whatever I gained in this career, I did by myself. And even though Project Honor doesn’t understand this well enough, there will come a moment when running ain’t an option anymore. Same goes for Drago. He can keep up his attitude for as long as we stand in front of each other. I won’t wait till he is ready to hit, that’s a fact.”
Lara let out a husky laughter before smashing her friend on her back. It was supposed to be friendly, but the girl just couldn’t hit in a soft way. Elena tried her best to not cough.
“I know you by now. I know you will make them respect you by your actions in the ring. Time for playing nice is over, and you never really were that good at it when it came to what happens in the ring. You made Lazarus tap out, and you will do worse to Drago. Do they think you are scared by a little barbed wire? It will be your playground. Project Honor needs to learn the hard way that Elena DeDraca is back and she wants the entire world in her hand. The barbed wire may rip your flesh, but that is nothing new. But as much as it rips into yours, make it rip away that much more from Drago. Spilling his blood will be the catalyst for the reemergence of The Fist of Hydra.”
The two would sit like this for a long time, debating strategies and forgetting about them again. But for Elena it was important to come here today, if she knew it or not. It was one thing to hear she was ready for this, once again, but now she also felt it. Lara was known for her sharp tongue and disability to sugarcoat. Considering how many ass kissers this business had, it was kinda refreshing.
I came to get hurt. Might as well do your worst to me. ~ Get Hurt by the Gaslight Anthem
LEAVES YOU COLD [SNOWFLAKES EVERYWHERE]
[Denver, Colorado]
Silence was golden, right? So often silence said more than words ever could. There were different reasons why people kept their mouths shut, but neither of them did matter. Not in a business like this. Not in a company like Project Honor. And certainly never to someone like Elena DeDraca. A professional competitor. Personal feelings and situations didn’t interfere with that mindset. If there was a job to do, there was zero chance she would fail. Something the wrestling world knew. Something everyone on the roster should know by now- but then again their ignorance was telling another tale.
And just because she took her job serious and wasn't one to cause a scene she kept her mouth shut. Again. For way too long probably. And even though every fibre of her body did protest, she accepted things the way they were. Telling herself to see the bigger picture, right? That there were plans for someone like Elena DeDraca. That after all her time of being successful she wasn't an outcast any longer. Yeah. Not her brightest moment.
It’s all about the money, darling.
Where am I? That was her first thought when finding herself sitting downstairs in the lobby. It was the hotel that most wrestlers had chosen to stay at while waiting for Project Honor’s big show. Here and there she saw people passing by that she knew, but Elena wasn't bothered with them. This had nothing to do with being anti- social but everything with being true to yourself. The times when she invested herself in the lives, careers or videogames of other people were long gone. Maybe to a point it was arrogant- but what was anyone gonna do about it? Exactly.
She was once again losing herself in the book she had brought as the concierge of the hotel appeared in front of her. He was letting her know that her table was ready, offering his hand for her to stand up. The look she gave him was priceless before she jumped off her seat, trying to not burst out laughing. The guy hardly seemed in his twenties and a tad bit embarrassed right now. Without further digging into it he would lead her towards the table, somewhere in the back of the restaurant. There was a reason she had picked that table, or would in any other place. Sight. From here she could scan over the crowd without problems and still was left unseen. Like a wild animal in the dark waiting for the right time to attack.
[REC]
“I am not surprised. That is how I kinda started my speeches a lot for the past decade. You go into events and even if you try not to, there are expectations. For one, because the human mind is made like that- but also because there will be stories about people. A lot of factors interfere with reality, but I don’t think that is anything new to you guys. And even though I kept my hopes to a minimum I was greeted with even less. Nothing to be exact. And that is usually what you get when a company is full of shit- no wait let me be exact, when management is full of themselves. And of course there is the aspect of making money. Which kinda is ironic to me, because everyone knows that my name alone sells more tickets than half of the roster. Leave alone what they make with being allowed to sell my merchandise. But that is the point, I never cared about money. Not even when I had nothing I was running after the mighty dollar. There are more important things in life and if this year has taught us something, then it's the fact that you can’t buy them. Week after week you fucked up the opportunities given without so much of an explanation. But still you expect people like me or even my brother to sit here and nod our heads. You want a good reputation and hard work, but you don’t wanna do a damn thing for it. I ask you directly now, do you think we are idiots?”
Elena leaned back in the semi comfortable chair, her eyes wandering over the other people in the room. A few tables away from her she spotted Hannah and Dickie sitting over a pile of pancakes. It was hard to miss the dark shadows underneath her brother’s eyes. Probably from thinking too much and not getting enough sleep. Making himself feel smaller than he was just because the company couldn’t get the job done. A little smile appeared on her face, somewhere behind a hint of pride viewable. He would continue his journey, one way or another.
“I will let that stand without an answer, although we all know there is one. I didn’t think returning after an almost two year pause would be easy. Only fools think that way and you might label me a lot- but for sure not that. I see the way you treat your talent and how you constantly hunt for those new toys. It will eventually bite you in the arse though, I’ve been in this business too long to not know the outcome of this. I will give you an example, shall I? Drago Santiago. The one you tried to hype up for the match against me, and what happened? Nothing. Not one word ever since the match got announced. And let’s be honest with each other for a moment, we all expected more from that charismatic boy. One that is in a constant fight with the world and his own past. I was waiting for those epic speeches and the colourful descriptions about all the things he was gonna do to me. But how little expectations meet reality, or how rarely. There are probably a few options why I was greeted with silence after I fired the first shot. One, cat got his tongue and he didn’t catch it when chasing like a little monkey. Two, he tries to remain mysterious and tickle my right spots. Or three, most likely if you ask me, I pushed the right buttons with what I had to say about him. One of my biggest strengths seems to be to find people's weak spots- and make no mistake, I will attack them merciless.”
“I got no sympathy for slackers. That sums up my mindset the best. I have been giving Project Honor my best and didn’t receive as much as being overlooked. Don’t get your panties twisted though Rock Johnson, I tend to fix my own problems. I am not one to get mad and pull a tantrum, I usually burn shit down. So when treated with ignorance on such a level, don’t be surprised when your talent ends up hurt. Blame my british nature for it, but I got manners. I don’t need you to raise me up or praise me on a daily basis, but I will not allow your sympathy for some people forcing me out. Want another example? A few weeks ago my mother died. None of you unprofessional maggots reached out- but that was fine. But even then I came and performed in front of those people, making your company look strong. Not one word about this anywhere, because we were too busy focusing on a damsel in distress and the guy that saved her. Don’t ever think that my attention is anywhere else. When you fuck up, I will see it- when I am getting to the point, I will call you out on it. You lack professionalism and the whole world is going to see it. I don’t care who on the roster gives staff the hots- but it will become a problem when people, including your champions, don't get the standing they deserve. Think about it.”
She reached over the table to grab her bag obviously searching for something. It didn’t take all too long before she pulled out a black shirt, neatly folded. Another smile. When she unfolded it and showed the front of it the viewer got a chance to read. In bold, purple letters it said: Elena DeDraca- Tired of your shit. In the background her logo was printed.
“I think sometimes a shirt says more than a thousand words, huh? Not only am I going to wear that shirt at the show, but I also will hand them out to fans. Project Honor doesn’t control my actions even though you might think so. This is the first statement of many and you might consider this as starting a movement. A revolution. And darlings, it wouldn’t be the first time I succeed. You can keep protecting your chosen ones. You can keep the focus on those you think deserve it. I got my own ways on drawing attention to my actions. Don’t believe it? Ask every fucking company I’ve ever worked for. It is no secret that I got no filter when you’re bullshitting me. There is Elena DeDraca the mother, wife and sister. Then you got Elena the business woman, the one probably making more money than you can imagine. They are pretty harmless, comforting and welcoming. But you signed Elena DeDraca the fighter. Not that I ever thought that either of you had an idea what that meant. Proving Ground. Fallout. Wherever I end up, you will be left without a choice.”
“Let me return to Drago Santiago once more. Not that he deserves it considering what a lousy job he has done- but that is the game. No worries honey, I am not mad at you. To be fair you are what society made you. No rebel. No creative thought ever past your mind. But that is okay too. We’re not all meant for greatness. We have reached a point though where it doesn’t matter what you have to say. You had your chance and you blew it. I will come for you, dear. I will rip under your skin and turn your world upside down. This has nothing to do with me being a bitch, but everything with you not getting the job done. You have probably heard this before, but that is only an assumption of mine. I will take your tattoos, your sadness and hatred to fuel my own rage. So maybe this is the point where I say thank you.”
She laughed out loud causing a few people to turn their heads. Including Hannah who was ready to jump up- running over. But Dimitri stopped her, nodding towards Elena. He was fully aware of what was going on over there.
“Thank you for once again proving me right. This isn’t Kansas anymore, Toto. The rules have changed so many times that it is hard to keep track. Another reason why I make my own instead of following like a sheep. You want blood. You wanna show the world how tough you are, Drago? Then stop being a boy and take it like a man. I tend to say my fights are nothing personal, but that is only half the truth. Because i will make this very personal- not with you though. But with everyone in Project Honor that hides behind a mask in the form of a desk, making decisions from afar. I will make Drago Santiago an example of what happens when you go deaf on what your roster deserves. What the fans deserve. I find myself in the position to not beg for attention, but demand it. That is the fine line between those that have to make a name for them and those that have done everything necessary. I gave blood, tears and time to this industry. I allowed the audience to live through my biggest hits and failures. And no matter the obstacles, I did it with my head held high. I don’t regret a single moment, even though a lot of things could have gone better. But isn’t that the beauty of life? You can plan but in the end you have to take it the way it comes.”
“Believe it or not up till now I have been playing nice. I allowed you to think that you are in the driver's seat. Watch you wet your jeans because flakes like Kasey Winterborn stepped back into your company. Kept my laughters in when you make someone like Strader, the rip off of this television show, believe he is the big shit. But that is the thing, I can sit in the back and watch. I can observe and wait for my time to strike. Patience is something most of those new folks lack. They want everything and they want it now. And if they don’t get it? They will threaten you or just walk out of the company. Don’t sweat it, Johnson. I am here to stay, if you like it or not.”
“You’re welcome.”
