︱MODERN GIRL︱Legacy Title Match [Elimination Chamber ]
Jan 31, 2021 8:03:07 GMT -5
CallMeRobert, JNS, and 2 more like this
Post by gothmother on Jan 31, 2021 8:03:07 GMT -5
I WANT IT ALL [GOTTA FIND ME A FUTURE MOVE OUT OF THE WAY]
[London, England] around 2003
It was impossible to say how many times she had been sitting on this uncomfortable chair. How often she counted the dirty spots on the wall or pulled another bit of wood from that massive table. The first few times she felt a little bit proud when coming here, but not anymore. In the end, the outcome always would be the same. A long lecture, losing the little rights that she had and some sort of punishment. And even though every fiber of her body wanted to punch those nuns, she wouldn’t. Not that it was physically impossible, but she was smart enough to know better. Everything she did, not only now but all her life, had consequences. Not only for herself but the small amount of people she felt obligated to protect.
Oddly enough today seemed strangely different. Elena had only recently returned to the orphanage, after another pointless try with a foster family. It was kinda amusing that they kept trying- although they probably didn’t even do it for her. Maybe it was more for themselves so they didn’t have to deal with her any longer. Her moods, her strange way of talking, or the way she didn’t accept rules.
They never learn.
Neither do you.
Looking at the huge clock that hung right above the wooden door, she began to feel slightly nervous. After dropping her off inside this room everyone left, without so much of a word. They just stepped out and closed the door behind them. And even though it felt strange, it wasn't really new. It was their not so subtle way, and pointless attempt, to break her. It didn’t work for the past 15 years- but hope dies last, right? Elena had leaned forward to grab the letter opener. For a good while, she was observing it from every angle. Almost fascinated by the colors created whenever light hit it in the right way. For just a moment her eyes wandered to the big window, her own reflection greeting her. The pale and skinny girl with long black hair. The green eyes would have been more suitable for a cat than a human being. For whatever reason a grin formed on her face, a hint of sarcasm playing in it.
What’s the worst thing that can happen?
Annoyed, she put the letter opener back on the table, checking her nail polish. Or better said, what was left of it. Nothing about her ever had been fancy and that was okay. She didn’t envy the pretty and rich, not anymore. Maybe back then when there was still hope.
Again this word.
Even though Elena DeDraca would never say that out loud but once upon a time there was this need of being loved. The dream that Mother and Father would walk through that gate, picking her up. Back then she would have ran towards them, finally having a home. But with every year passing, the dream became smaller- hope was nothing more than a strange memory. Around that time Elena decided, or maybe her survival instinct kicked in, that people just weren’t worth it. That she didn’t need anyone, but herself.
Almost every minute she looked up to that damn clock, ready to rip it off and throw it through this damn window. Some sort of relief spread in her body when the door finally was kicked open, the nun walking towards her chair. She didn’t go as far as looking at Elena, but then again she hardly ever did. And at the rare moments it happened, there was so much disgust in those tiny eyes- so maybe this was for the better.
“You know why you are here, Elena?”
Not really, penguin. It was hard to deny that Elena had an attitude, and maybe she could have saved herself a lot of times by dropping it, but it felt impossible. The young girl crossed her arms in front of her chest, shrugging her shoulders.
“I know you have the tendency to play dumb, but not this time. The fire.”
It was like she had lost all control over her own body when hearing the last word. It was impossible they had found out about that, or even thought about her doing it. To cut a long story short, the house of her foster family had burnt down to the ground- which was the first reason that brought her back to the orphanage. No one was hurt, which to a degree upset her more than it should. Still looking unimpressed she stared at the nun.
“I told you that it wasn't me. Maybe it was the pig of a father falling asleep while smoking. I was more than lucky I wasn't home when it happened… .”
“STOP IT! I am so tired of your stories which most of the time lead to lies. The Andersons were kind enough to invite you into their home and allowed you to live among them. And you, as always, have been ungrateful. Do you think it is easy to find a family for a teenager? Most people look for newborns and smaller kids, but they decided to give you a chance… .”
Calm down, kitty.
The biggest challenge currently was to sit still, but she would. Her arms no longer crossed in front of her chest, but her nails were now digging into the leather. When looking down she noticed that her knuckles turned even whiter than the rest of her.
“They weren’t such good people. They drank all day and wouldn’t even treat their own kids with decency. Every night the father would try to come into my room.”
“ENOUGH! I’ve had it with you for the past years. All you ever do is cause trouble, no matter the consequences. Some kids are born worthless, maybe your mother knew that.”
Although on the outside her expression was still unimpressed and stoic, on the inside a hurricane of feelings was breaking loose. Her hands clenched into fists, the amount of self-control she needed for not attacking the bitch was immense. In another life, she would have just jumped over the table and beat her to a bloody pulp.
“Be honest, for once. It doesn’t matter what I say, right? Like it didn’t in the past when you locked me into that dark room. Told me it would be to form my personality and teach me a lesson. When you lectured me that God would see everything that I do and that there was a reason no one wanted me all my life. The truth is, you don’t give a flying fuck about any of the kids in here. Every evening, when the younger ones cry, you just walk past their rooms. Telling them to grow up.”
The nun was ready to speak but without taking notice of it, Elena had gotten up. She was leaning forward over the desk, her long hair falling in her face. Her voice had changed, it became stronger with every word.
“You know very well that I didn’t set that house on fire… ”
I know who did, but that is another tale for another time.
“... but that didn’t stop you from making a decision. No matter what it is, I will accept it. Just like I have accepted them before- without whining. I won’t give you that kind of satisfaction, mother. Just one more thing before you lock me away or whatever else your perverted mind has sought out to do, I want to thank you.”
The puzzled expression on the old woman's face was priceless. This was probably the last thing she had ever expected. Especially not out of the mouth of Elena.
“You’re right. No one ever wanted me. I was too different to ever fit the idea of a good kid. I wasn't behaving well enough or didn’t act like a well-trained puppy. Because that is the point of those visiting days. We’re supposed to show tricks so that one of those wealthy couples takes us home. But I am drifting off, ain’t I? Every time I revolted, it made me grow up a little more. I will walk out of this orphanage in a few years, not wasting another thought on you or your life. But you mother, you will never forget me. I will be forever the puppy that you couldn’t train. To spin the metaphor further, the same puppy that would still shit on your desk even after you rubbed their nose plenty of times.”
“Elena DeDraca… .”
“Does it look like I am finished? Didn’t think so either. You wanna punish me, go for it. But stop killing me with another lecture, I have probably inspired you to more than anyone else. What’s it gonna be? Another month without any privileges like breakfast or reading books? Or am I cleaning the bathrooms again? Be a bit more creative, mother.”
Silence. It was obvious the nun was thinking, but also that she was caught off guard. Elena moved slightly backward but didn’t bother to sit down again. Instead, she stared the old woman to the ground, couldn’t help herself grinning.
Troublemaker.
What happened next was hard to describe, not because the situation itself was complicated- but rather unexpected. The nun would follow steps getting up herself, with an ice-cold stare looking back at teenager Elena. Never before in her life had she seen an expression so filled with hatred, and she probably wouldn’t ever again.
“Congratulations, Elena. You so badly wanted a way out and I will grant you that. Come tomorrow morning you will be leaving this house. Without a chance of ever returning. God has given me so much patience that I have been helping children for over 40 years, but he has warned me about you. Ever since we found you in this park during a cold November night. Even back then he told me to leave you right there, that you are damaged. But the others just couldn’t see it. This beautiful baby with the green eyes.”
“I must go to another orphanage… .”
“Don’t be silly, Elena. None of the other orphanages would take you, neither would any families after the fire incident. So listen carefully, this is your last night here. In the morning you will have your luggage packed and walk through the gate.”
It took another few moments before she finally understood what the old crow meant. Elena DeDraca, hardly 15 years old, got kicked out. Of home, well the only home she ever knew. In a matter of seconds, a thousand thoughts rushed through her head, from begging for forgiveness to pulling a tantrum. But neither happened. Instead, she straightened her shoulders and raised her chin. In a rather strange way, she nodded towards the nun, tempted to bow. Without a verbal response, she turned around walking towards the door. Her hand was shaking when reaching out for the doorknob, but she was thankful no one saw it. Taking a deep breath before walking through, never looking back. Not now, not ever.
Abandoned.
THE RIVER IS WILD
[Garrison, New York]
Maybe the feeling had always been there, locked away and well hidden. Being sentimental was nothing that suited the character that was Elena DeDraca. If she had to count the times she cried in her life, she probably could do it on one hand. Many times people would refer to her as cold and merciless. And to a degree they were right, but hardly anyone did put into question how she became that person. To be honest, it didn’t matter. The opinion of others held little to no value in her life. But that didn’t mean that she was deaf to it. And even more important she was the kind that never forgot. She forgave, occasionally, but that didn’t mean she forgot. It was not in her nature.
Life was a constant challenge, not only for her but for everyone else. It was easy to judge a book by its cover, but that didn’t mean anyone had the right to do so. There was a time in life when all of the rumors considering her person were overwhelming. Loud and somewhat killing her courage. But that was then, right? Long before she slapped the world right across the face, becoming what some would call a legend. But even now there were still people that doubted her and her abilities. First and foremost, herself. But that was the thing about perfectionists, if they weren’t their own worst critics- they weren’t true to themselves. At the end of the day, she was one rational thinking woman, knowing that a forever in this business wasn't granted. All they had was the here and now and no more time for foolish dreams. Life was what you made it. That was something she highly believed in, which made it so impossible to tolerate big egos and whiny bitches. Period.
Once more with feeling.
It was hard to say when she had her last night of good sleep. Usually, she would go to bed late and wake up around 4 hours later. Elena DeDraca didn’t believe in sleep to say the very least. If it was up to her, she would have been active 24 hours a day. There was always something to do, or thoughts to finish in her pretty head. Tonight was nothing different, while Mark was still fast asleep- she had already exited their bedroom. But not without another look at her loving husband. Her heart would skip a few beats, once more reminding her how lucky she really was. But not even that perfect creature could hold her in bed, not when her mind was racing to directions she didn’t even begin to understand. Like many other mornings, she found herself in the comfortable chair, a blanket wrapped around her always cold body.
[REC]
The sun was still hiding somewhere behind the clouds when Elena DeDraca was greeting the day. A cup of her favourite tea in front of her while everything else in the house was quiet. Not even the animals were awake to keep her company.
“Things will happen while they can, yes? I am certain you all heard of that before, even though not everyone understands the meaning of it. We wanna be in control of our life all the time, but we must realize that is impossible. Sometimes life will give you a big, fat fuck you. The question and maybe solution to this rests in how we handle it. Do we hold our heads up high and face the next stone blocking our path, or do we roll up like a ball of self-pity and cry ourselves a river. You may wonder what I try to tell you with this, but give me a moment- we will get there. Project Honor. The place I call home. For however long that will be, no one knows. I earned myself the privilege to compete for the Legacy title by beating the almost unbeatable Shawn Warstein. If my mind reminds me right, I am his only loss since being part of the company. So go me, huh? But let's not jump to the main part directly and spoil the prologue.”
There was this obligatory pause a speaker took to settle down. Some would say dramatic pause, but the outcome was the same. Elena adjusted herself in the chair, flipping her hair back over her shoulder.
“You may consider me a loyal worker to the company. This means that I of course follow both brands, even though I ended up being part of Fallout. Which automatically leads me back to Shawn Warstein and his awesome win over MYOJIN and Indy Darling. Of course, especially over MYOJIN. I am certain some people out there ask themselves right now: Why? Why does she mention that specifically? I know he is no longer in this match due to his shoulder injury, but let us use this as a learning opportunity to get to know what kind of champion Elena DeDraca is and will be. I believe in fairness and I don’t believe in favourites. When the entire company starts seeing opportunity after opportunity handed to someone who wins a few matches but doesn’t see the light at the end of the tunnel...well, I am not even sure why management has such a hard-on for lost souls, but not my issue.”
“What happened to fighting your own demons and picking yourself up? It should be a note for everyone in this match that the world doesn’t care about your lack of self-confidence and there will be zero sympathy. How do I know? Maybe because I have been part of this industry for almost two decades, darlings. I have seen men and women with bigger balls than most appear and vanish because they become deflated after a couple of losses. Maybe you find that I am too hard on every person I meet, but that is the way I treat sulking and crying. Unless you are my daughter, I am not meant to raise you.”
For just a split second her expression softened, probably when thinking of the cuddly face of Isabella. When she returned to speak, all the softness was gone.
“The world, even for people like our Grand Champion, does not revolve around us individually. If he were in this match, I would have the same words for him as well as everyone else. Sorry, not sorry. Your attitude is what creates your options, not whining in the back. It looks like favoritism, which only earns you frustration, and a back to be turned on you. So, MYOJIN, when you come back from your little injury and get handed another title shot, don’t act like we did not tell you this. Shitty attitudes are worse than lots of the egos I’ve seen in Project: Honor. Think about it.”
The expression on Elena’s face was like cut out of stone, there was no sarcasm or light-hearted mood to this. Deadly serious if anything. There was a small wrinkle between her eyebrows. One the audience had seen so often.
“Since we talk about attitude, how are you doing Aiden? Everything good there in your castle up in the sky? Thought so. I was kinda amused to see you laying it out on social media, darling. I mean I know that you have a big mouth, but boy you also get confusing. Like you point your finger at others for getting ahead of themselves, but what about yourself? You think you did something special by being the first to qualify? How? You just have been booked first. End of story. So please don’t ride on a high horse. You know that I do like you, even though we couldn’t be more different. I admire your free spirit and your talent in the ring. It’s no shame to admit that. Doesn’t mean that I am a fan of your personality though. Now everyone will be: But he is like a brother to Dickie, how can you… blah blah. Dimitri is his own person and lives his own life. Sure I have more or less raised him, been like a mother and pulled him through a lot of shit- but I don’t make his life decisions. Different sources have asked me how I feel about him openly supporting Aiden, over me- or so it seems. Do you want an honest answer? I don’t give a flying fuck. We may be family, but we fight our own battles. He is not going to be in this match, therefore it doesn’t make a difference. I said it plenty of times and showed it even more often, inside that ring there are no friends. But back to what matters, I am not sure you remember that we met before Aiden. Before you became so close with my little brother. Does that ring a bell?”
“I am the one that introduced you to… well nevermind that. I always told you how talented you were and I haven’t changed my mind. But you may never forget who I am, dear. Where I come from and what I am capable of. We might not be enemies, frenemies, or whatever else the cool kids say these days- but we are opponents. Two people on different sides, wanting the big shiny thing. It might not come as a surprise to you, since I know that you pay attention, but I am not good at giving in. Leave alone submit to anyone but myself. You know what I believe? I didn’t come so far to only come this far. You got plenty of potential, but I am just not ready to take steps backward. After two years of sitting at the sideline and raising two successful businesses, I am just returning to the roots. Doing what I do best, darling. I would like to believe we can have something like a friendly rivalry but if not, no hard feelings. Come The Crowning none of this will any longer matter. All of us want the big piece of the cake, but different than some I can chew and swallow what I cut off. Can you? Or are you more the type that needs to rely on his tag team partner to get the job done? Just a thought. Either way those are just assumptions, you are more than welcome to prove me wrong. But no matter what happens that night, you better make every second count. The victory beer will be on either of us. I hope you get the hint.”
She raised her tea mug and her lips, silently, formed the words cheers. For the first time since she started to film the look on her face looked somewhat relaxed. A small grin on the edge of her lips.
“Age is catching up with me, damn it. Should have made a list about the people being in this match, huh? Bare with me, my mind obviously doesn’t work as well as it used to. It was something with Mother of Dragons or was it Dragonfly… no wait, Dragon Lady. Yeah. That’s the one. Or she might think of herself as the one. Carnage Wrestling. How did that go for you? Spare me the answer since you left the place. But I can give you a hint of sympathy since I know how the place operates. Elena, that’s not your business. True, it isn’t. But maybe it is upon me to welcome you to Project Honor. One, because I am rather polite. Two, because I haven’t seen anyone else doing it. Don’t take it personally when I ask this: But how the fuck did you end up in this match? Not only have you just signed with the company, but there are plenty of other names that would have been worthy of this spot. Sure, you earned your it by beating Euan Hill...yeah, folks- I didn’t know him either. So yeah, congratulations. I will not pretend that I have the slightest clue what you are capable of, but I guess we will find out. This isn’t kindergarten though. If you step in the ring with someone like me, you better be ready to be pushed over the edge. Because this is what I do and what has made me this successful in my career. What about you? I want a hint of why the Dragon Lady would be good at representing Project Honor. Shoot.”
“Just kidding. I don’t care all that much. If I give you my honest opinion, even though you might end up being butthurt, I think you are pretty fake. You try to come off mysterious and tough, but that is not what I see. You think being small is something special? Pretty obviously you never met Alexandra Kelly. And this whole thing of not having a last name? Are you Cher? Madonna? Bono? But who am I to judge, right? I will not make the mistake to underestimate you. My ego ain’t that big to pretend that new folks ain’t capable of winning big matches. I just don’t think that you are aware of what you signed up for. An Elimination Chamber can be quite the fun spectacle. But on the other hand, it can end careers. So be careful what you wish for, Draggy. This is my life girl, I have never done anything else. I don’t pretend or play a role, what you see is what you get. And that is the point and one of the things that helped me become one of the best. And no darling, this is not what I say myself. My head is not so far up my arse to believe I am superior, but my resume speaks for itself. So from the bottom of my heart, I wish you the best of luck. May fortune be with you and all those other empty phrases that people use to appear decent.”
Elena did her friendliest, fakest smile possible. As usually she could only hold it for a few seconds before dropping it. Rolling her eyes and leaning back in the chair. Something cracked, maybe the chair. Maybe her body.
“Matty- Pooh. I hope you didn’t think I forgot about you, but I thought since we are the only ones of the Fallout roster- I would save you for last. Where to start and where to end? First things first, don’t try to give a free pass to people to become part of the Legacy title match. That was rather unprofessional, wasn't it? I fully agree that someone like Mark Hunter would deserve a spot with us, but not like this. You have a depth to pay or just a weird complex, do it on your terms. No hard feelings, but that was a pretty lame move. What’s next? Do you try to get Bruce a spot too? You know the same that offered his body for the chamber? I tell you, the business has changed so much- and then again it hasn’t. There are still too many trying to take the easy road, no matter how honorable they act. So no-no, bad Matty.”
“You do realize from previous conversations that I always speak my mind. And if you fuck up, and it concerns me, I will tell you. But back to the person that is Matthew Knox. Another former Carnage performer. Man, they must run low on talent by now. Did they force you to eat your vitamins or why are you all running like death is right behind you? This whole situation needs more investigation, but that has to wait for now. Although looking back at Carnage, that didn’t go all too well for you did it? That's a simple observation since I am not going to judge your abilities by what you did in the past- or didn’t for that matter. Let’s focus on your time in Project Honor. That’s more after your taste so I think. But then again, and I hope you forgive me for my honesty, who did you really face up with that pushed you to the limits? Dex? I don’t think so. I have a certain amount of respect for the way you perform and the way you treat your opponents. Just like myself, you don’t seem to find the need to belittle them. Okay, maybe I have a few more hiccups than you when it comes to that, but who's counting? But as much as I can find myself in the way you do business, we are still so very different. Can you sense what I am talking about?”
“Despite my life story which I don’t feel the need to share with the rest of the world, I don’t seek revenge or redemption. I have fucked up plenty of times and made the life of other people hell, but I owned up to it. There is nothing to be sorry for, Matty. The summary of your decisions, good or bad, is what brought you here. I have given my all to make every moment count and I am not going to change my way of thinking. Come the Crowning I will look at you and you will understand. It won’t be an easy lesson, especially not for a veteran like you. But the times for fuckery and games are over- hell, it's been over since months. I am uninterested in every Jack, Jill and Sally that joins the company or the Fallout brand. I don’t care about their sad tales or how great they think they are. And as upsetting as this might be, I am not an insecure teenager whose buttons are pushed easily. You wanna get under my skin? Then you better be prepared for disappointment. There will always be those that think they are the next big thing, I am certain at a point you did too, but there is only one Elena DeDraca. The Fist of Hydra. And chances are high that my face will be the last thing you see before the lights go out.”
A small giggle.
“Welcome to the next chapter of my LEGACY.”
In a rather graceful manner, she bowed her head, the camera zooming closer to focus on her eyes. A serious stare the last thing the audience gets to see before the picture turns black.
[London, England] around 2003
It was impossible to say how many times she had been sitting on this uncomfortable chair. How often she counted the dirty spots on the wall or pulled another bit of wood from that massive table. The first few times she felt a little bit proud when coming here, but not anymore. In the end, the outcome always would be the same. A long lecture, losing the little rights that she had and some sort of punishment. And even though every fiber of her body wanted to punch those nuns, she wouldn’t. Not that it was physically impossible, but she was smart enough to know better. Everything she did, not only now but all her life, had consequences. Not only for herself but the small amount of people she felt obligated to protect.
Oddly enough today seemed strangely different. Elena had only recently returned to the orphanage, after another pointless try with a foster family. It was kinda amusing that they kept trying- although they probably didn’t even do it for her. Maybe it was more for themselves so they didn’t have to deal with her any longer. Her moods, her strange way of talking, or the way she didn’t accept rules.
They never learn.
Neither do you.
Looking at the huge clock that hung right above the wooden door, she began to feel slightly nervous. After dropping her off inside this room everyone left, without so much of a word. They just stepped out and closed the door behind them. And even though it felt strange, it wasn't really new. It was their not so subtle way, and pointless attempt, to break her. It didn’t work for the past 15 years- but hope dies last, right? Elena had leaned forward to grab the letter opener. For a good while, she was observing it from every angle. Almost fascinated by the colors created whenever light hit it in the right way. For just a moment her eyes wandered to the big window, her own reflection greeting her. The pale and skinny girl with long black hair. The green eyes would have been more suitable for a cat than a human being. For whatever reason a grin formed on her face, a hint of sarcasm playing in it.
What’s the worst thing that can happen?
Annoyed, she put the letter opener back on the table, checking her nail polish. Or better said, what was left of it. Nothing about her ever had been fancy and that was okay. She didn’t envy the pretty and rich, not anymore. Maybe back then when there was still hope.
Again this word.
Even though Elena DeDraca would never say that out loud but once upon a time there was this need of being loved. The dream that Mother and Father would walk through that gate, picking her up. Back then she would have ran towards them, finally having a home. But with every year passing, the dream became smaller- hope was nothing more than a strange memory. Around that time Elena decided, or maybe her survival instinct kicked in, that people just weren’t worth it. That she didn’t need anyone, but herself.
Almost every minute she looked up to that damn clock, ready to rip it off and throw it through this damn window. Some sort of relief spread in her body when the door finally was kicked open, the nun walking towards her chair. She didn’t go as far as looking at Elena, but then again she hardly ever did. And at the rare moments it happened, there was so much disgust in those tiny eyes- so maybe this was for the better.
“You know why you are here, Elena?”
Not really, penguin. It was hard to deny that Elena had an attitude, and maybe she could have saved herself a lot of times by dropping it, but it felt impossible. The young girl crossed her arms in front of her chest, shrugging her shoulders.
“I know you have the tendency to play dumb, but not this time. The fire.”
It was like she had lost all control over her own body when hearing the last word. It was impossible they had found out about that, or even thought about her doing it. To cut a long story short, the house of her foster family had burnt down to the ground- which was the first reason that brought her back to the orphanage. No one was hurt, which to a degree upset her more than it should. Still looking unimpressed she stared at the nun.
“I told you that it wasn't me. Maybe it was the pig of a father falling asleep while smoking. I was more than lucky I wasn't home when it happened… .”
“STOP IT! I am so tired of your stories which most of the time lead to lies. The Andersons were kind enough to invite you into their home and allowed you to live among them. And you, as always, have been ungrateful. Do you think it is easy to find a family for a teenager? Most people look for newborns and smaller kids, but they decided to give you a chance… .”
Calm down, kitty.
The biggest challenge currently was to sit still, but she would. Her arms no longer crossed in front of her chest, but her nails were now digging into the leather. When looking down she noticed that her knuckles turned even whiter than the rest of her.
“They weren’t such good people. They drank all day and wouldn’t even treat their own kids with decency. Every night the father would try to come into my room.”
“ENOUGH! I’ve had it with you for the past years. All you ever do is cause trouble, no matter the consequences. Some kids are born worthless, maybe your mother knew that.”
Although on the outside her expression was still unimpressed and stoic, on the inside a hurricane of feelings was breaking loose. Her hands clenched into fists, the amount of self-control she needed for not attacking the bitch was immense. In another life, she would have just jumped over the table and beat her to a bloody pulp.
“Be honest, for once. It doesn’t matter what I say, right? Like it didn’t in the past when you locked me into that dark room. Told me it would be to form my personality and teach me a lesson. When you lectured me that God would see everything that I do and that there was a reason no one wanted me all my life. The truth is, you don’t give a flying fuck about any of the kids in here. Every evening, when the younger ones cry, you just walk past their rooms. Telling them to grow up.”
The nun was ready to speak but without taking notice of it, Elena had gotten up. She was leaning forward over the desk, her long hair falling in her face. Her voice had changed, it became stronger with every word.
“You know very well that I didn’t set that house on fire… ”
I know who did, but that is another tale for another time.
“... but that didn’t stop you from making a decision. No matter what it is, I will accept it. Just like I have accepted them before- without whining. I won’t give you that kind of satisfaction, mother. Just one more thing before you lock me away or whatever else your perverted mind has sought out to do, I want to thank you.”
The puzzled expression on the old woman's face was priceless. This was probably the last thing she had ever expected. Especially not out of the mouth of Elena.
“You’re right. No one ever wanted me. I was too different to ever fit the idea of a good kid. I wasn't behaving well enough or didn’t act like a well-trained puppy. Because that is the point of those visiting days. We’re supposed to show tricks so that one of those wealthy couples takes us home. But I am drifting off, ain’t I? Every time I revolted, it made me grow up a little more. I will walk out of this orphanage in a few years, not wasting another thought on you or your life. But you mother, you will never forget me. I will be forever the puppy that you couldn’t train. To spin the metaphor further, the same puppy that would still shit on your desk even after you rubbed their nose plenty of times.”
“Elena DeDraca… .”
“Does it look like I am finished? Didn’t think so either. You wanna punish me, go for it. But stop killing me with another lecture, I have probably inspired you to more than anyone else. What’s it gonna be? Another month without any privileges like breakfast or reading books? Or am I cleaning the bathrooms again? Be a bit more creative, mother.”
Silence. It was obvious the nun was thinking, but also that she was caught off guard. Elena moved slightly backward but didn’t bother to sit down again. Instead, she stared the old woman to the ground, couldn’t help herself grinning.
Troublemaker.
What happened next was hard to describe, not because the situation itself was complicated- but rather unexpected. The nun would follow steps getting up herself, with an ice-cold stare looking back at teenager Elena. Never before in her life had she seen an expression so filled with hatred, and she probably wouldn’t ever again.
“Congratulations, Elena. You so badly wanted a way out and I will grant you that. Come tomorrow morning you will be leaving this house. Without a chance of ever returning. God has given me so much patience that I have been helping children for over 40 years, but he has warned me about you. Ever since we found you in this park during a cold November night. Even back then he told me to leave you right there, that you are damaged. But the others just couldn’t see it. This beautiful baby with the green eyes.”
“I must go to another orphanage… .”
“Don’t be silly, Elena. None of the other orphanages would take you, neither would any families after the fire incident. So listen carefully, this is your last night here. In the morning you will have your luggage packed and walk through the gate.”
It took another few moments before she finally understood what the old crow meant. Elena DeDraca, hardly 15 years old, got kicked out. Of home, well the only home she ever knew. In a matter of seconds, a thousand thoughts rushed through her head, from begging for forgiveness to pulling a tantrum. But neither happened. Instead, she straightened her shoulders and raised her chin. In a rather strange way, she nodded towards the nun, tempted to bow. Without a verbal response, she turned around walking towards the door. Her hand was shaking when reaching out for the doorknob, but she was thankful no one saw it. Taking a deep breath before walking through, never looking back. Not now, not ever.
Abandoned.
THE RIVER IS WILD
[Garrison, New York]
Maybe the feeling had always been there, locked away and well hidden. Being sentimental was nothing that suited the character that was Elena DeDraca. If she had to count the times she cried in her life, she probably could do it on one hand. Many times people would refer to her as cold and merciless. And to a degree they were right, but hardly anyone did put into question how she became that person. To be honest, it didn’t matter. The opinion of others held little to no value in her life. But that didn’t mean that she was deaf to it. And even more important she was the kind that never forgot. She forgave, occasionally, but that didn’t mean she forgot. It was not in her nature.
Life was a constant challenge, not only for her but for everyone else. It was easy to judge a book by its cover, but that didn’t mean anyone had the right to do so. There was a time in life when all of the rumors considering her person were overwhelming. Loud and somewhat killing her courage. But that was then, right? Long before she slapped the world right across the face, becoming what some would call a legend. But even now there were still people that doubted her and her abilities. First and foremost, herself. But that was the thing about perfectionists, if they weren’t their own worst critics- they weren’t true to themselves. At the end of the day, she was one rational thinking woman, knowing that a forever in this business wasn't granted. All they had was the here and now and no more time for foolish dreams. Life was what you made it. That was something she highly believed in, which made it so impossible to tolerate big egos and whiny bitches. Period.
Once more with feeling.
It was hard to say when she had her last night of good sleep. Usually, she would go to bed late and wake up around 4 hours later. Elena DeDraca didn’t believe in sleep to say the very least. If it was up to her, she would have been active 24 hours a day. There was always something to do, or thoughts to finish in her pretty head. Tonight was nothing different, while Mark was still fast asleep- she had already exited their bedroom. But not without another look at her loving husband. Her heart would skip a few beats, once more reminding her how lucky she really was. But not even that perfect creature could hold her in bed, not when her mind was racing to directions she didn’t even begin to understand. Like many other mornings, she found herself in the comfortable chair, a blanket wrapped around her always cold body.
[REC]
The sun was still hiding somewhere behind the clouds when Elena DeDraca was greeting the day. A cup of her favourite tea in front of her while everything else in the house was quiet. Not even the animals were awake to keep her company.
“Things will happen while they can, yes? I am certain you all heard of that before, even though not everyone understands the meaning of it. We wanna be in control of our life all the time, but we must realize that is impossible. Sometimes life will give you a big, fat fuck you. The question and maybe solution to this rests in how we handle it. Do we hold our heads up high and face the next stone blocking our path, or do we roll up like a ball of self-pity and cry ourselves a river. You may wonder what I try to tell you with this, but give me a moment- we will get there. Project Honor. The place I call home. For however long that will be, no one knows. I earned myself the privilege to compete for the Legacy title by beating the almost unbeatable Shawn Warstein. If my mind reminds me right, I am his only loss since being part of the company. So go me, huh? But let's not jump to the main part directly and spoil the prologue.”
There was this obligatory pause a speaker took to settle down. Some would say dramatic pause, but the outcome was the same. Elena adjusted herself in the chair, flipping her hair back over her shoulder.
“You may consider me a loyal worker to the company. This means that I of course follow both brands, even though I ended up being part of Fallout. Which automatically leads me back to Shawn Warstein and his awesome win over MYOJIN and Indy Darling. Of course, especially over MYOJIN. I am certain some people out there ask themselves right now: Why? Why does she mention that specifically? I know he is no longer in this match due to his shoulder injury, but let us use this as a learning opportunity to get to know what kind of champion Elena DeDraca is and will be. I believe in fairness and I don’t believe in favourites. When the entire company starts seeing opportunity after opportunity handed to someone who wins a few matches but doesn’t see the light at the end of the tunnel...well, I am not even sure why management has such a hard-on for lost souls, but not my issue.”
“What happened to fighting your own demons and picking yourself up? It should be a note for everyone in this match that the world doesn’t care about your lack of self-confidence and there will be zero sympathy. How do I know? Maybe because I have been part of this industry for almost two decades, darlings. I have seen men and women with bigger balls than most appear and vanish because they become deflated after a couple of losses. Maybe you find that I am too hard on every person I meet, but that is the way I treat sulking and crying. Unless you are my daughter, I am not meant to raise you.”
For just a split second her expression softened, probably when thinking of the cuddly face of Isabella. When she returned to speak, all the softness was gone.
“The world, even for people like our Grand Champion, does not revolve around us individually. If he were in this match, I would have the same words for him as well as everyone else. Sorry, not sorry. Your attitude is what creates your options, not whining in the back. It looks like favoritism, which only earns you frustration, and a back to be turned on you. So, MYOJIN, when you come back from your little injury and get handed another title shot, don’t act like we did not tell you this. Shitty attitudes are worse than lots of the egos I’ve seen in Project: Honor. Think about it.”
The expression on Elena’s face was like cut out of stone, there was no sarcasm or light-hearted mood to this. Deadly serious if anything. There was a small wrinkle between her eyebrows. One the audience had seen so often.
“Since we talk about attitude, how are you doing Aiden? Everything good there in your castle up in the sky? Thought so. I was kinda amused to see you laying it out on social media, darling. I mean I know that you have a big mouth, but boy you also get confusing. Like you point your finger at others for getting ahead of themselves, but what about yourself? You think you did something special by being the first to qualify? How? You just have been booked first. End of story. So please don’t ride on a high horse. You know that I do like you, even though we couldn’t be more different. I admire your free spirit and your talent in the ring. It’s no shame to admit that. Doesn’t mean that I am a fan of your personality though. Now everyone will be: But he is like a brother to Dickie, how can you… blah blah. Dimitri is his own person and lives his own life. Sure I have more or less raised him, been like a mother and pulled him through a lot of shit- but I don’t make his life decisions. Different sources have asked me how I feel about him openly supporting Aiden, over me- or so it seems. Do you want an honest answer? I don’t give a flying fuck. We may be family, but we fight our own battles. He is not going to be in this match, therefore it doesn’t make a difference. I said it plenty of times and showed it even more often, inside that ring there are no friends. But back to what matters, I am not sure you remember that we met before Aiden. Before you became so close with my little brother. Does that ring a bell?”
“I am the one that introduced you to… well nevermind that. I always told you how talented you were and I haven’t changed my mind. But you may never forget who I am, dear. Where I come from and what I am capable of. We might not be enemies, frenemies, or whatever else the cool kids say these days- but we are opponents. Two people on different sides, wanting the big shiny thing. It might not come as a surprise to you, since I know that you pay attention, but I am not good at giving in. Leave alone submit to anyone but myself. You know what I believe? I didn’t come so far to only come this far. You got plenty of potential, but I am just not ready to take steps backward. After two years of sitting at the sideline and raising two successful businesses, I am just returning to the roots. Doing what I do best, darling. I would like to believe we can have something like a friendly rivalry but if not, no hard feelings. Come The Crowning none of this will any longer matter. All of us want the big piece of the cake, but different than some I can chew and swallow what I cut off. Can you? Or are you more the type that needs to rely on his tag team partner to get the job done? Just a thought. Either way those are just assumptions, you are more than welcome to prove me wrong. But no matter what happens that night, you better make every second count. The victory beer will be on either of us. I hope you get the hint.”
She raised her tea mug and her lips, silently, formed the words cheers. For the first time since she started to film the look on her face looked somewhat relaxed. A small grin on the edge of her lips.
“Age is catching up with me, damn it. Should have made a list about the people being in this match, huh? Bare with me, my mind obviously doesn’t work as well as it used to. It was something with Mother of Dragons or was it Dragonfly… no wait, Dragon Lady. Yeah. That’s the one. Or she might think of herself as the one. Carnage Wrestling. How did that go for you? Spare me the answer since you left the place. But I can give you a hint of sympathy since I know how the place operates. Elena, that’s not your business. True, it isn’t. But maybe it is upon me to welcome you to Project Honor. One, because I am rather polite. Two, because I haven’t seen anyone else doing it. Don’t take it personally when I ask this: But how the fuck did you end up in this match? Not only have you just signed with the company, but there are plenty of other names that would have been worthy of this spot. Sure, you earned your it by beating Euan Hill...yeah, folks- I didn’t know him either. So yeah, congratulations. I will not pretend that I have the slightest clue what you are capable of, but I guess we will find out. This isn’t kindergarten though. If you step in the ring with someone like me, you better be ready to be pushed over the edge. Because this is what I do and what has made me this successful in my career. What about you? I want a hint of why the Dragon Lady would be good at representing Project Honor. Shoot.”
“Just kidding. I don’t care all that much. If I give you my honest opinion, even though you might end up being butthurt, I think you are pretty fake. You try to come off mysterious and tough, but that is not what I see. You think being small is something special? Pretty obviously you never met Alexandra Kelly. And this whole thing of not having a last name? Are you Cher? Madonna? Bono? But who am I to judge, right? I will not make the mistake to underestimate you. My ego ain’t that big to pretend that new folks ain’t capable of winning big matches. I just don’t think that you are aware of what you signed up for. An Elimination Chamber can be quite the fun spectacle. But on the other hand, it can end careers. So be careful what you wish for, Draggy. This is my life girl, I have never done anything else. I don’t pretend or play a role, what you see is what you get. And that is the point and one of the things that helped me become one of the best. And no darling, this is not what I say myself. My head is not so far up my arse to believe I am superior, but my resume speaks for itself. So from the bottom of my heart, I wish you the best of luck. May fortune be with you and all those other empty phrases that people use to appear decent.”
Elena did her friendliest, fakest smile possible. As usually she could only hold it for a few seconds before dropping it. Rolling her eyes and leaning back in the chair. Something cracked, maybe the chair. Maybe her body.
“Matty- Pooh. I hope you didn’t think I forgot about you, but I thought since we are the only ones of the Fallout roster- I would save you for last. Where to start and where to end? First things first, don’t try to give a free pass to people to become part of the Legacy title match. That was rather unprofessional, wasn't it? I fully agree that someone like Mark Hunter would deserve a spot with us, but not like this. You have a depth to pay or just a weird complex, do it on your terms. No hard feelings, but that was a pretty lame move. What’s next? Do you try to get Bruce a spot too? You know the same that offered his body for the chamber? I tell you, the business has changed so much- and then again it hasn’t. There are still too many trying to take the easy road, no matter how honorable they act. So no-no, bad Matty.”
“You do realize from previous conversations that I always speak my mind. And if you fuck up, and it concerns me, I will tell you. But back to the person that is Matthew Knox. Another former Carnage performer. Man, they must run low on talent by now. Did they force you to eat your vitamins or why are you all running like death is right behind you? This whole situation needs more investigation, but that has to wait for now. Although looking back at Carnage, that didn’t go all too well for you did it? That's a simple observation since I am not going to judge your abilities by what you did in the past- or didn’t for that matter. Let’s focus on your time in Project Honor. That’s more after your taste so I think. But then again, and I hope you forgive me for my honesty, who did you really face up with that pushed you to the limits? Dex? I don’t think so. I have a certain amount of respect for the way you perform and the way you treat your opponents. Just like myself, you don’t seem to find the need to belittle them. Okay, maybe I have a few more hiccups than you when it comes to that, but who's counting? But as much as I can find myself in the way you do business, we are still so very different. Can you sense what I am talking about?”
“Despite my life story which I don’t feel the need to share with the rest of the world, I don’t seek revenge or redemption. I have fucked up plenty of times and made the life of other people hell, but I owned up to it. There is nothing to be sorry for, Matty. The summary of your decisions, good or bad, is what brought you here. I have given my all to make every moment count and I am not going to change my way of thinking. Come the Crowning I will look at you and you will understand. It won’t be an easy lesson, especially not for a veteran like you. But the times for fuckery and games are over- hell, it's been over since months. I am uninterested in every Jack, Jill and Sally that joins the company or the Fallout brand. I don’t care about their sad tales or how great they think they are. And as upsetting as this might be, I am not an insecure teenager whose buttons are pushed easily. You wanna get under my skin? Then you better be prepared for disappointment. There will always be those that think they are the next big thing, I am certain at a point you did too, but there is only one Elena DeDraca. The Fist of Hydra. And chances are high that my face will be the last thing you see before the lights go out.”
A small giggle.
“Welcome to the next chapter of my LEGACY.”
In a rather graceful manner, she bowed her head, the camera zooming closer to focus on her eyes. A serious stare the last thing the audience gets to see before the picture turns black.
