Post by gothmother on Jul 10, 2021 9:10:44 GMT -5
COLD ARMS
[London, England] AFTERMATH PG XVIII
She wasn't the type that went forward saying: I told you so. But this probably would be the moment to do exactly that. Even though she didn’t actively watch what was going down at the show, she knew the outcome long before. The match was still going while she brought her daughter to bed. And it kept going when she cleaned the kitchen. It felt slightly odd to do so, considering how much money she and Mark had combined. But money was the last thing on Elena DeDraca’s mind. Not yet, not then either.
When you got it, you don’t have to worry about it.
Correct. From the living room she heard the television getting turned off, which was a safe sign that the show had finished. Or Mark had lost interest. Both things were rather possible. She opened the fridge and grabbed some water before joining her husband. He sat exactly where she left him. On the huge sofa, but now he was rubbing his temples. A little smile appeared on her face when she sank down next to him.
“Hard day at the office?”
She would ask in a light tone before handing him the water. Of course she was referring to the past episode of Proving Ground. And whatever clusterfuck it was this time. He looked at her with an amused expression on his face.
“I am really not sure what to think. The booking is...something. I don’t even wanna say shit, but some matches are completely pointless. But who am I talking to? You have seen it firsthand. But to cut a long story short, you got an opponent.”
Of course I do, darling.
“Mark Hunter defeated Lance Williams. The righteous man in me would say, well done. But on the other hand I must agree with someone like Ozy. What made them deserve a fight for that chance in the first place? Although I guess with talent running out of the company, you have to take what you can.”
Elena enjoyed it when he put on his analytic voice. He brought things to the point with a hint of sarcasm. Very much like herself.
“So, Mark Hunter. I can’t say that I am really surprised. Williams is a good brawler, but he lacks the finesse if you ask me. Plus, things were really personal between those two. And if you allow yourself to take a closer look, Mark was in due for some revenge. So well done, pretty boy.”
She opened her water bottle and raised it, very much as if she was doing a toast to someone not there. Mark had stopped years ago to question her actions, if anything he kept supporting her in every stage of her life.
“The way you look at me, you already went through every scenario in your head. Every outcome… .”
“Au contraire, mon amour. There are a lot of scenarios, no doubt about that. A lot of twists and turns when it comes to that encounter, but there is only one outcome. I will take back what is rightfully mine. I don’t give a flying fuck if some weasels in the back try to preach against me. They have done nothing else since day one. Crying, screaming and trying to get their nose in my business.”
He kept looking at her with an intensity that was hard to fake, if at all. For a moment she stared into the far distance that was their hallway, as if she saw someone there. Considering it was Elena, the possibility was there. But when she turned her focus back to him, she smiled.
“You will not find me underestimating Mark Hunter, only a fool would do that. And they did in the past, which did cost them dearly. But neither will I bow down and let him have this moment. The old Mark Hunter, the ruthless one, would have stood a chance. But this version, the fiber flatterer, hardly. I know he got the technique he needs and all the talent that god could spare, but so do others. This will be not just a match, love. But two people are going to war with each other, for what should be the highest prize in Project Honor. Although one can doubt their concept.”
“I assume you saw the poster too.”
This time she didn’t take her eyes away from him but bursted out laughing. Indeed she was laughing so hard that she spilled some of the water. Her whole body was shaking.
“Oh, god yes! It is as sad as it is funny. Savannah Sunshine. Some would say an opportunist, I would say- a fluke. Girl got lucky that Pixie was already halfway out of the door. And Jason Long? Didn’t even notice he worked here anymore, considering how many places he works at. And who is left? Oh yeah, let’s not waste time on that. Copy will never be better than the original.”
“You’re in a mood, my heart. I like it.”
He leaned over to kiss her on the lips, very softly but still with enough pressure. For a moment she allowed herself to get lost, closing her eyes. In this moment she wasn't Elena DeDraca the champion, she was just a woman feeling the love of her man. But way too soon she returned to reality, moving slightly away from him.
“It is more than a mood, Mark. You have no idea how it feels to not burden yourself with the problems of the whole world. Maybe that loss against Warstein was exactly what I needed. A wake up call. Even in a moment of defeat, I did outshine them. And that is more than most can say for themselves.”
In a slow manner she rose from the sofa, looking down on him. In an instant her expression had changed, the serious expression all too present.
“Everyone has an idea of how you should be, how you have to be. From childhood to adult life and probably even on your deathbed. And at a certain point I thought I have to satisfy all their needs. And what happened? They used me for their needs and then pushed me back into the darkness. But not ever again. If someone doesn’t like this version of me, they can write me a letter. I will never read it, but it will make them feel better. Maybe.”
With that being said she leaned down another time kissing him, before leaving the living room. He didn’t have to ask or look where she was going, especially not when hearing her unlock a door. Three times. He wouldn’t see her for the rest of the night. But that was his burden to carry for loving the woman known as the Fist of Hydra.
SNAKE EYES [YOU WILL ALWAYS BE DANGER]
[Milano, Italy] Throwback 2013
She had been here for a week or maybe two. It was almost impossible to keep track with everything that was going on around her. Her social contacts seemed rather limited. If she counted them together it was what Leandra called her servant and the scary lady herself. The contessa. The godmother. And whatever else they would call her in this area. She was as beautiful as deadly, that was something she had learned in the first few days.
Elena, the loudmouth she was, dared to put something into question that was asked of her. In her sarcastic manner she responded to Leandra, regretting it the moment her mouth went shut again. Not only did she receive the slap of a lifetime, but also was ignored by everyone for the rest of the week. Disrespect didn’t sit very well with those people.
Those people? They are murderers.
Exactly. This wasn't Kansas anymore, right? And while she usually felt in charge, this was not the case here. Most of her days started and ended the same. She was forced to study different cultures and the way they looked at life. Not that Elena had ever been dumb, but she didn’t care all too much about such things. But protesting didn’t get her anywhere. In the afternoon she usually was taken to some hidden place, watching other people train. But not like in a gym. They actually did fight for their lives. With some of the deadliest weapons she has ever seen, or heard of.
Today was no different. She had just left the library of the huge palais, ready to grab herself something to drink. Elena hadn’t done more than ten steps before one of the guerillas blocked her way. He was saying something in Italian, which she of course didn’t understand. But the look on his face was more than enough to tell a story. Without putting anything in question she followed him, right into the office of the contessa. The middle aged lady sat behind her mahogany desk, going over some files.
Briefly she looked up towards the man, which was her sign to send him off. She didn’t offer Elena a seat verbally, but the chair was placed in a way too obvious. With well measured steps the young girl had reached it, sitting down. And what then? She waited. How long it took, she didn’t know. But it was better to not interrupt what was going on, another lesson she had learned.
“I hear you make good progress.”
That was no question but a determination. Elena only nodded, still not certain where this would lead.
“In many ways you remind me of my granddaughter, Elena. She never understood the importance of training your mind as much as your body. She would rebel against it, but in the end she understood. I am certain you ask yourself again and again what brought you here. You are a fighter, Elena. And as a fighter you wanna get rid of all this energy and here I sit, locking you in the library. I do understand your frustration.”
What? That was probably the least thing she did expect to hear. The usually so husky voice, always with a hint of anger, was somewhat soft. For the first time she dared to look into the woman's face.
“Life holds more than spilling blood and the endless fight. I know it must sound absurd coming from my mouth, but you know I am right. And that is why you are here, to understand that there are choices in life. There is not only left or right, black or white. The world is yours, if you have the courage to take it.”
“I am just not sure how this is gonna help my wrestling career, contessa.”
Her voice wasn't more than a whisper.
“You don’t? Oh my little lamb, open your eyes. Why do you think you keep studying other cultures every day? Not because I wanna send you into theology or politics. Open your eyes, Elena. The more you know of those things, the easier it becomes to attack their flaws. You will have a world career, which means all kinds of people will cross your way.”
And in that moment it slowly dawned on her, although the thought wasn't fully formed yet. Her green eyes still engaged with the ones of Leandra.
“The more you know, the harder you can attack. How do you think I built this empire? By knowing the enemy. Although, not everyone is an enemy at first look.”
Once more Elena wanted to say something but she didn’t have the chance. Instead she watched Leandra rise from her chair, walking towards the door. That was usually how their talks ended. Leaving her with things to think about, however not today.
“You come, my little lamb?”
Elena almost jumped from her chair, following. They made it towards the car, where the driver was already waiting. Both females entered the backseat. Leandra as always put on her dramatic sunglasses, yeah the ones that made Elena giggle on the inside. But something else was different today. A second pair appeared in her sight. Without wasting another moment she put them on, feeling a slight shiver running down her spine.
“Where are we going?”
“Orfanotrofio Le Stelline.”
I should have paid more attention to the Italian lessons.
No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t figure out what that meant. At least not till the driver held in front of a massive building. One very similar to something that still gave Elena DeDraca nightmares. An orphanage. She forbade her mind to go back to that time and place. And all the hurt she had witnessed in her young life. Both females exited the car to walk closer. The same massive fence and that helldoor.
“Scusa, contessa. But why are we here?”
“To get another piece of the puzzle that will be your life. If there is nothing left to fear, what is the worst thing that can happen?”
They were greeted by one of the nuns. Another shiver but also some sort of sickness. Elena didn’t wanna go in there, but she was fully aware that she had to. Running away only worked for so long, till it… well didn’t. For two elder women they walked pretty fast and she had small problems keeping up. They would walk through one of those endless hallways, Christian symbols mocking her left and right. Surprisingly the nun then bid them farewell, leaving them standing in front of a wooden door.
I knew hell existed. I knew it.
Leandra effortlessly pushed it open and took the first step. What Elena saw then, couldn’t be compared to anything she had seen before. At least fifty kids were standing in a beautiful row, looking at Leandra. It was a scene so grotesque, but yet so equally breathtaking.
“What is this?”
“An orphanage, Elena.”
“Let me rephrase, what really is this?”
Leandra looked at her and for the first time she saw something like a smile on the ladies face. The dark eyes burned a hole into her body.
“A training facility. What you see here, Elena DeDraca, is the future of Italy. Those children get everything they need. Manners, education and whatever else. Each of them perfectly formed to make a difference. I am their godmother, godfather and the reason they survive. Therefore they owe me whatever they have. And out of respect they will pay their dues, when the moment arrives Do you understand what that means?”
Elena needed a moment to fully understand. She had a puzzled look on her face, her brows furrowing as the wheels of her mind began to turn. Leandra was a master manipulator, but that was not the lesson taught here today. It was about giving and taking.
But most of all it was about control.
“I thought you were the head of the Stincino family?”
"I am. But this, my dear, has nothing to do with the Family business. This is to ensure the power of Italy remains in my hand. These children represent our future. A future of what has yet to be determined - politicians, company owners, you name it. My presence, my motherhood to these children will never be forgotten."
“That is how you run your business, isn’t it? You infiltrate those kids in any position you want. And let me guess, only powerful people get to adopt them… .”
“I see you start to learn, my little lamb.”
“But why do you show me this, contessa? I am not like you or Shawna, I can’t offer them anything… .”
Leandra laughed once again. A deep and dark laughter, but still somewhat sympathetic.
“Not yet, agnellino. But your time will come.”
It was the last time they would talk about this subject, but the memory of this became ever so present for Elena DeDraca. Little did she know back then. Even less did she see in herself and the power that rested behind one female's hunger for revenge.
BROKEN CROWN [YOUR VALUES ARE ALL SHOT]
[Melbourne, Australia]
You get what you give, but not always what you deserve. It sounded rather confusing, but if you gave yourself a moment, it was the truth. Sometimes hard work did pay off, while in many cases people were overlooked. Elena DeDraca had been there, but that would never happen again. Against the odds she proved herself over and over in the wrestling world. And while some would honour what she achieved, others were left green with envy. But at the end of the day, she did all of this for herself. For her story. Her legacy.
This literally was the other end of the world, right? Australia. And while this land had so much beauty to represent, there was still so much left unseen. For Elena it wasn't her first time being here, yet there was a strange fascination coming from it. Another time she had declined the offer of the company to stay in one of their booked hotels. Instead Mark and herself rented something out of the city. It was a beautiful place in a quiet neighborhood. But most importantly, no one could disturb her concentration. Mark Hunter. The bastard that turned golden.
But had he really? She had said it plenty of times and wasn't tired of repeating herself on it. People didn’t change. Deep inside the core of the truth did always remain. So what was it? Bastard or good guy? That was the big question that had yet to be answered.
I know you, Markus.
Elena had decided to perform her daily yoga session somewhere in the backyard. In the near distance there was an outdoor kitchen attached to the house. Here and there a few geckos, or baby dragons like she used to call them, crossing her way. Considering the season, it was winter time now in this confusing country. Yet it was still warmer than some winters she spent in England. Stretching out on the grass she looked upon the sky. For a moment she would remember how easy life could be, but often enough it wasn't.
Life is what you make it.
A small smile spread on her face when she returned her focus to what was going on around her. Everything was set to deliver a speech towards Mark Hunter, Project Honor and whoever else was interested. Her husband had done his best to bring everything she needed, which made her smile even further. Reality was, a smartphone camera would have been more than enough. She lifted herself off of the ground to walk towards the camera, pressing the red button. In a lazily manner she walked back to her yoga mat, sitting back down.
“I will tell you something, this could easily be mistaken for a holiday. And maybe some of the performers use it as exactly that. But just like every other time, someone has to burst the bubble. We are here for business, to be exact- Fallout business. Now one has to wonder why Mark Hunter had made it on the card then. Right? But since they are running short on contenders, be my guest. Guts, Gold and Glory. Where legends will be born and the trash taken out. Or will take itself out. Seems to be the way for broken egos and mediocre talent.”
Elena winked towards the camera, obviously having some people on her mind. But like every other time she shrugged it off, getting back on subject.
“First of all, congratulations. You did it, Mister Huntington. Even though I think Ozy said it best when he questioned what made you deserve it in the first place. But that is the theme of this company in case you haven’t noticed. Shawn Warstein lost his match and became a contender for the Legacy title. And yes, he won. But as much as I do respect the talent of him, he didn’t know what to do with that gained glory. This tale could have been way longer and more interesting, but that’s none of my business. I have been trying to show the world for the past months what all is wrong with Project Honor. Only a few did listen or understand, which could break my motivation- but it doesn’t. People will always take the easy way out. That is how the human race was built. Lazy and predictable.”
“Which kinda leads me to you, Mark. When you entered the company you caused a lot of waves. For a while you were the talk of town. And man, when you did dethrone the Grand Champion? The world started to view you in a different light. And for a while everything was peachy. You were fresh and even though you were a scumbag, that had to cheat to get that title, the audience did accept you. And you know why? Because you were real. You didn’t hide behind a mask, trying to make yourself better than you are. Nope. Just a dirty bitch that got the job done. And while I could get down with that, something inside of you shifted. I am not sure if your girl was too much in your ear or you bought the steroids that Lance Williams uses, you just lost that spark. And after that? You lost the title. That is what I need you to understand. One decision can change your whole life. Action causes reaction. And sometimes that sucks.”
Her eyes were fully focused on the camera, the world around her had disappeared. The beauty of nature was gone.
“Everybody loves a good redemption story, Mark. The hero that turned evil and all the way back. And isn’t that what you are after? You fucked up, here and there almost killed people- but for what? For your fifteen minutes in the spotlight. Congratulations, you had them. But sadly instead of fighting back and expressing the dominance that could be inside of you, you brown nose someone like Indy Darling. I will be a hundred percent honest with you, I think that was when my opinion about you became solid. I can deal with scum. I can live with overly happy idiots. Man, I can even accept someone like Kayla constantly PMSing. But you my friend went in a direction that will seal your fate. You decided to become what everyone else wants to see. The martyr. The one that fights to get things right. I am afraid though that in many years from now when you write your autobiography, I won’t be named in it. Because Elena DeDraca doesn’t perform as a stepping stone in anyone’s story. Sorry, not sorry.”
Another smile, which soon turned into something like a frown.
“You do realise that you have been played like a fiddle for the last few months, right? Despite the fact that your former bestie, my condolences, Lance Williams lost- he had you exactly where he wanted. The boy had nothing to lose, but you had everything to gain. And he pushed your buttons like only he could. Sure you did get your revenge, but did you really? Or is the hurt of betrayal gonna remain with you forever. Ask yourself this question, but do it quickly. You and me, we are going for what is supposed to be the highest prize in the company. The legacy title. I lived and breathed this belt, Mark. I have gone to war with several people to get it in the first place. All while trying to promote a company that couldn’t care less about me. But hey, I am not bitter. I am simply a realist. And while I do expect us to go to war, I do think I have an idea about the outcome. No matter how good you are, sometimes being good isn’t enough.”
“I won’t waste time with your match record, although I am fully aware some people like to do that. I don’t care about your private life either, or the little family you are building. It has nothing to do with what is going down between the two of us. If you had asked me a few months ago, if I thought of Mark Hunter as a deserving champion. Someone that could represent Project Honor. I would have said: Hell yeah. Because Mark Hunter was a leader. He was someone that went his own path, instead of getting guidance from people considered management. You lost your spot at the table, darling. Even before you lost the belt. I think, maybe, Ozy did you a favour with that. Take it from someone that went through a similar thing. Losing that one thing that kept me going, taught me several lessons. One, I don’t need a title to be the best of the company. Two, no loss will end my story. And three, most importantly, Elena DeDraca always survives. Three things you shall write down and repeat daily.”
Somewhere in the distance she heard the engine of a car being turned off. Doors opening and closing. She knew what this meant, but wasn't finished with her talk.
“Maybe you will find peace, Mark. Perhaps you will become the greatest Project Honor had ever seen. And possibly one day you are the Legacy champion. But, and that is where I am the party crasher, not today. And especially not till I am done with this company. You can call me arrogant, I am used to this by now, but you can not label me a liar. Bit by bit you will realise that I have a pretty clear picture of you. Because that is what a true champion does. They pay attention without anyone noticing. Man, I should get money for my survival tips.”
Elena once more got up from the mat, rolling it neatly together. She heard the front door. The excitement began to grow steadily.
“One last word before I bid you farewell, friend. I label you a smart man, maybe not the smartest, but smart enough. Doesn’t happen every day in this business that you get someone that can actually follow your words. So I want you to take a moment for yourself and think this through. Look at my time in Honor. I was willing to put everything on the line without ever looking back. I sacrificed my well being to stand here as the leading force in the company. So just imagine, for a moment, what my limits are. You got it in front of your inner eye? Good. Now scratch it, Mark. Because the truth is this, there are no limits when it comes to me. We will take this dance together, but you won’t get the chance to lead. Instead you will realise you were meant to follow. Period”
“Yours truly.”
[London, England] AFTERMATH PG XVIII
She wasn't the type that went forward saying: I told you so. But this probably would be the moment to do exactly that. Even though she didn’t actively watch what was going down at the show, she knew the outcome long before. The match was still going while she brought her daughter to bed. And it kept going when she cleaned the kitchen. It felt slightly odd to do so, considering how much money she and Mark had combined. But money was the last thing on Elena DeDraca’s mind. Not yet, not then either.
When you got it, you don’t have to worry about it.
Correct. From the living room she heard the television getting turned off, which was a safe sign that the show had finished. Or Mark had lost interest. Both things were rather possible. She opened the fridge and grabbed some water before joining her husband. He sat exactly where she left him. On the huge sofa, but now he was rubbing his temples. A little smile appeared on her face when she sank down next to him.
“Hard day at the office?”
She would ask in a light tone before handing him the water. Of course she was referring to the past episode of Proving Ground. And whatever clusterfuck it was this time. He looked at her with an amused expression on his face.
“I am really not sure what to think. The booking is...something. I don’t even wanna say shit, but some matches are completely pointless. But who am I talking to? You have seen it firsthand. But to cut a long story short, you got an opponent.”
Of course I do, darling.
“Mark Hunter defeated Lance Williams. The righteous man in me would say, well done. But on the other hand I must agree with someone like Ozy. What made them deserve a fight for that chance in the first place? Although I guess with talent running out of the company, you have to take what you can.”
Elena enjoyed it when he put on his analytic voice. He brought things to the point with a hint of sarcasm. Very much like herself.
“So, Mark Hunter. I can’t say that I am really surprised. Williams is a good brawler, but he lacks the finesse if you ask me. Plus, things were really personal between those two. And if you allow yourself to take a closer look, Mark was in due for some revenge. So well done, pretty boy.”
She opened her water bottle and raised it, very much as if she was doing a toast to someone not there. Mark had stopped years ago to question her actions, if anything he kept supporting her in every stage of her life.
“The way you look at me, you already went through every scenario in your head. Every outcome… .”
“Au contraire, mon amour. There are a lot of scenarios, no doubt about that. A lot of twists and turns when it comes to that encounter, but there is only one outcome. I will take back what is rightfully mine. I don’t give a flying fuck if some weasels in the back try to preach against me. They have done nothing else since day one. Crying, screaming and trying to get their nose in my business.”
He kept looking at her with an intensity that was hard to fake, if at all. For a moment she stared into the far distance that was their hallway, as if she saw someone there. Considering it was Elena, the possibility was there. But when she turned her focus back to him, she smiled.
“You will not find me underestimating Mark Hunter, only a fool would do that. And they did in the past, which did cost them dearly. But neither will I bow down and let him have this moment. The old Mark Hunter, the ruthless one, would have stood a chance. But this version, the fiber flatterer, hardly. I know he got the technique he needs and all the talent that god could spare, but so do others. This will be not just a match, love. But two people are going to war with each other, for what should be the highest prize in Project Honor. Although one can doubt their concept.”
“I assume you saw the poster too.”
This time she didn’t take her eyes away from him but bursted out laughing. Indeed she was laughing so hard that she spilled some of the water. Her whole body was shaking.
“Oh, god yes! It is as sad as it is funny. Savannah Sunshine. Some would say an opportunist, I would say- a fluke. Girl got lucky that Pixie was already halfway out of the door. And Jason Long? Didn’t even notice he worked here anymore, considering how many places he works at. And who is left? Oh yeah, let’s not waste time on that. Copy will never be better than the original.”
“You’re in a mood, my heart. I like it.”
He leaned over to kiss her on the lips, very softly but still with enough pressure. For a moment she allowed herself to get lost, closing her eyes. In this moment she wasn't Elena DeDraca the champion, she was just a woman feeling the love of her man. But way too soon she returned to reality, moving slightly away from him.
“It is more than a mood, Mark. You have no idea how it feels to not burden yourself with the problems of the whole world. Maybe that loss against Warstein was exactly what I needed. A wake up call. Even in a moment of defeat, I did outshine them. And that is more than most can say for themselves.”
In a slow manner she rose from the sofa, looking down on him. In an instant her expression had changed, the serious expression all too present.
“Everyone has an idea of how you should be, how you have to be. From childhood to adult life and probably even on your deathbed. And at a certain point I thought I have to satisfy all their needs. And what happened? They used me for their needs and then pushed me back into the darkness. But not ever again. If someone doesn’t like this version of me, they can write me a letter. I will never read it, but it will make them feel better. Maybe.”
With that being said she leaned down another time kissing him, before leaving the living room. He didn’t have to ask or look where she was going, especially not when hearing her unlock a door. Three times. He wouldn’t see her for the rest of the night. But that was his burden to carry for loving the woman known as the Fist of Hydra.
SNAKE EYES [YOU WILL ALWAYS BE DANGER]
[Milano, Italy] Throwback 2013
She had been here for a week or maybe two. It was almost impossible to keep track with everything that was going on around her. Her social contacts seemed rather limited. If she counted them together it was what Leandra called her servant and the scary lady herself. The contessa. The godmother. And whatever else they would call her in this area. She was as beautiful as deadly, that was something she had learned in the first few days.
Elena, the loudmouth she was, dared to put something into question that was asked of her. In her sarcastic manner she responded to Leandra, regretting it the moment her mouth went shut again. Not only did she receive the slap of a lifetime, but also was ignored by everyone for the rest of the week. Disrespect didn’t sit very well with those people.
Those people? They are murderers.
Exactly. This wasn't Kansas anymore, right? And while she usually felt in charge, this was not the case here. Most of her days started and ended the same. She was forced to study different cultures and the way they looked at life. Not that Elena had ever been dumb, but she didn’t care all too much about such things. But protesting didn’t get her anywhere. In the afternoon she usually was taken to some hidden place, watching other people train. But not like in a gym. They actually did fight for their lives. With some of the deadliest weapons she has ever seen, or heard of.
Today was no different. She had just left the library of the huge palais, ready to grab herself something to drink. Elena hadn’t done more than ten steps before one of the guerillas blocked her way. He was saying something in Italian, which she of course didn’t understand. But the look on his face was more than enough to tell a story. Without putting anything in question she followed him, right into the office of the contessa. The middle aged lady sat behind her mahogany desk, going over some files.
Briefly she looked up towards the man, which was her sign to send him off. She didn’t offer Elena a seat verbally, but the chair was placed in a way too obvious. With well measured steps the young girl had reached it, sitting down. And what then? She waited. How long it took, she didn’t know. But it was better to not interrupt what was going on, another lesson she had learned.
“I hear you make good progress.”
That was no question but a determination. Elena only nodded, still not certain where this would lead.
“In many ways you remind me of my granddaughter, Elena. She never understood the importance of training your mind as much as your body. She would rebel against it, but in the end she understood. I am certain you ask yourself again and again what brought you here. You are a fighter, Elena. And as a fighter you wanna get rid of all this energy and here I sit, locking you in the library. I do understand your frustration.”
What? That was probably the least thing she did expect to hear. The usually so husky voice, always with a hint of anger, was somewhat soft. For the first time she dared to look into the woman's face.
“Life holds more than spilling blood and the endless fight. I know it must sound absurd coming from my mouth, but you know I am right. And that is why you are here, to understand that there are choices in life. There is not only left or right, black or white. The world is yours, if you have the courage to take it.”
“I am just not sure how this is gonna help my wrestling career, contessa.”
Her voice wasn't more than a whisper.
“You don’t? Oh my little lamb, open your eyes. Why do you think you keep studying other cultures every day? Not because I wanna send you into theology or politics. Open your eyes, Elena. The more you know of those things, the easier it becomes to attack their flaws. You will have a world career, which means all kinds of people will cross your way.”
And in that moment it slowly dawned on her, although the thought wasn't fully formed yet. Her green eyes still engaged with the ones of Leandra.
“The more you know, the harder you can attack. How do you think I built this empire? By knowing the enemy. Although, not everyone is an enemy at first look.”
Once more Elena wanted to say something but she didn’t have the chance. Instead she watched Leandra rise from her chair, walking towards the door. That was usually how their talks ended. Leaving her with things to think about, however not today.
“You come, my little lamb?”
Elena almost jumped from her chair, following. They made it towards the car, where the driver was already waiting. Both females entered the backseat. Leandra as always put on her dramatic sunglasses, yeah the ones that made Elena giggle on the inside. But something else was different today. A second pair appeared in her sight. Without wasting another moment she put them on, feeling a slight shiver running down her spine.
“Where are we going?”
“Orfanotrofio Le Stelline.”
I should have paid more attention to the Italian lessons.
No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t figure out what that meant. At least not till the driver held in front of a massive building. One very similar to something that still gave Elena DeDraca nightmares. An orphanage. She forbade her mind to go back to that time and place. And all the hurt she had witnessed in her young life. Both females exited the car to walk closer. The same massive fence and that helldoor.
“Scusa, contessa. But why are we here?”
“To get another piece of the puzzle that will be your life. If there is nothing left to fear, what is the worst thing that can happen?”
They were greeted by one of the nuns. Another shiver but also some sort of sickness. Elena didn’t wanna go in there, but she was fully aware that she had to. Running away only worked for so long, till it… well didn’t. For two elder women they walked pretty fast and she had small problems keeping up. They would walk through one of those endless hallways, Christian symbols mocking her left and right. Surprisingly the nun then bid them farewell, leaving them standing in front of a wooden door.
I knew hell existed. I knew it.
Leandra effortlessly pushed it open and took the first step. What Elena saw then, couldn’t be compared to anything she had seen before. At least fifty kids were standing in a beautiful row, looking at Leandra. It was a scene so grotesque, but yet so equally breathtaking.
“What is this?”
“An orphanage, Elena.”
“Let me rephrase, what really is this?”
Leandra looked at her and for the first time she saw something like a smile on the ladies face. The dark eyes burned a hole into her body.
“A training facility. What you see here, Elena DeDraca, is the future of Italy. Those children get everything they need. Manners, education and whatever else. Each of them perfectly formed to make a difference. I am their godmother, godfather and the reason they survive. Therefore they owe me whatever they have. And out of respect they will pay their dues, when the moment arrives Do you understand what that means?”
Elena needed a moment to fully understand. She had a puzzled look on her face, her brows furrowing as the wheels of her mind began to turn. Leandra was a master manipulator, but that was not the lesson taught here today. It was about giving and taking.
But most of all it was about control.
“I thought you were the head of the Stincino family?”
"I am. But this, my dear, has nothing to do with the Family business. This is to ensure the power of Italy remains in my hand. These children represent our future. A future of what has yet to be determined - politicians, company owners, you name it. My presence, my motherhood to these children will never be forgotten."
“That is how you run your business, isn’t it? You infiltrate those kids in any position you want. And let me guess, only powerful people get to adopt them… .”
“I see you start to learn, my little lamb.”
“But why do you show me this, contessa? I am not like you or Shawna, I can’t offer them anything… .”
Leandra laughed once again. A deep and dark laughter, but still somewhat sympathetic.
“Not yet, agnellino. But your time will come.”
It was the last time they would talk about this subject, but the memory of this became ever so present for Elena DeDraca. Little did she know back then. Even less did she see in herself and the power that rested behind one female's hunger for revenge.
BROKEN CROWN [YOUR VALUES ARE ALL SHOT]
[Melbourne, Australia]
You get what you give, but not always what you deserve. It sounded rather confusing, but if you gave yourself a moment, it was the truth. Sometimes hard work did pay off, while in many cases people were overlooked. Elena DeDraca had been there, but that would never happen again. Against the odds she proved herself over and over in the wrestling world. And while some would honour what she achieved, others were left green with envy. But at the end of the day, she did all of this for herself. For her story. Her legacy.
This literally was the other end of the world, right? Australia. And while this land had so much beauty to represent, there was still so much left unseen. For Elena it wasn't her first time being here, yet there was a strange fascination coming from it. Another time she had declined the offer of the company to stay in one of their booked hotels. Instead Mark and herself rented something out of the city. It was a beautiful place in a quiet neighborhood. But most importantly, no one could disturb her concentration. Mark Hunter. The bastard that turned golden.
But had he really? She had said it plenty of times and wasn't tired of repeating herself on it. People didn’t change. Deep inside the core of the truth did always remain. So what was it? Bastard or good guy? That was the big question that had yet to be answered.
I know you, Markus.
Elena had decided to perform her daily yoga session somewhere in the backyard. In the near distance there was an outdoor kitchen attached to the house. Here and there a few geckos, or baby dragons like she used to call them, crossing her way. Considering the season, it was winter time now in this confusing country. Yet it was still warmer than some winters she spent in England. Stretching out on the grass she looked upon the sky. For a moment she would remember how easy life could be, but often enough it wasn't.
Life is what you make it.
A small smile spread on her face when she returned her focus to what was going on around her. Everything was set to deliver a speech towards Mark Hunter, Project Honor and whoever else was interested. Her husband had done his best to bring everything she needed, which made her smile even further. Reality was, a smartphone camera would have been more than enough. She lifted herself off of the ground to walk towards the camera, pressing the red button. In a lazily manner she walked back to her yoga mat, sitting back down.
“I will tell you something, this could easily be mistaken for a holiday. And maybe some of the performers use it as exactly that. But just like every other time, someone has to burst the bubble. We are here for business, to be exact- Fallout business. Now one has to wonder why Mark Hunter had made it on the card then. Right? But since they are running short on contenders, be my guest. Guts, Gold and Glory. Where legends will be born and the trash taken out. Or will take itself out. Seems to be the way for broken egos and mediocre talent.”
Elena winked towards the camera, obviously having some people on her mind. But like every other time she shrugged it off, getting back on subject.
“First of all, congratulations. You did it, Mister Huntington. Even though I think Ozy said it best when he questioned what made you deserve it in the first place. But that is the theme of this company in case you haven’t noticed. Shawn Warstein lost his match and became a contender for the Legacy title. And yes, he won. But as much as I do respect the talent of him, he didn’t know what to do with that gained glory. This tale could have been way longer and more interesting, but that’s none of my business. I have been trying to show the world for the past months what all is wrong with Project Honor. Only a few did listen or understand, which could break my motivation- but it doesn’t. People will always take the easy way out. That is how the human race was built. Lazy and predictable.”
“Which kinda leads me to you, Mark. When you entered the company you caused a lot of waves. For a while you were the talk of town. And man, when you did dethrone the Grand Champion? The world started to view you in a different light. And for a while everything was peachy. You were fresh and even though you were a scumbag, that had to cheat to get that title, the audience did accept you. And you know why? Because you were real. You didn’t hide behind a mask, trying to make yourself better than you are. Nope. Just a dirty bitch that got the job done. And while I could get down with that, something inside of you shifted. I am not sure if your girl was too much in your ear or you bought the steroids that Lance Williams uses, you just lost that spark. And after that? You lost the title. That is what I need you to understand. One decision can change your whole life. Action causes reaction. And sometimes that sucks.”
Her eyes were fully focused on the camera, the world around her had disappeared. The beauty of nature was gone.
“Everybody loves a good redemption story, Mark. The hero that turned evil and all the way back. And isn’t that what you are after? You fucked up, here and there almost killed people- but for what? For your fifteen minutes in the spotlight. Congratulations, you had them. But sadly instead of fighting back and expressing the dominance that could be inside of you, you brown nose someone like Indy Darling. I will be a hundred percent honest with you, I think that was when my opinion about you became solid. I can deal with scum. I can live with overly happy idiots. Man, I can even accept someone like Kayla constantly PMSing. But you my friend went in a direction that will seal your fate. You decided to become what everyone else wants to see. The martyr. The one that fights to get things right. I am afraid though that in many years from now when you write your autobiography, I won’t be named in it. Because Elena DeDraca doesn’t perform as a stepping stone in anyone’s story. Sorry, not sorry.”
Another smile, which soon turned into something like a frown.
“You do realise that you have been played like a fiddle for the last few months, right? Despite the fact that your former bestie, my condolences, Lance Williams lost- he had you exactly where he wanted. The boy had nothing to lose, but you had everything to gain. And he pushed your buttons like only he could. Sure you did get your revenge, but did you really? Or is the hurt of betrayal gonna remain with you forever. Ask yourself this question, but do it quickly. You and me, we are going for what is supposed to be the highest prize in the company. The legacy title. I lived and breathed this belt, Mark. I have gone to war with several people to get it in the first place. All while trying to promote a company that couldn’t care less about me. But hey, I am not bitter. I am simply a realist. And while I do expect us to go to war, I do think I have an idea about the outcome. No matter how good you are, sometimes being good isn’t enough.”
“I won’t waste time with your match record, although I am fully aware some people like to do that. I don’t care about your private life either, or the little family you are building. It has nothing to do with what is going down between the two of us. If you had asked me a few months ago, if I thought of Mark Hunter as a deserving champion. Someone that could represent Project Honor. I would have said: Hell yeah. Because Mark Hunter was a leader. He was someone that went his own path, instead of getting guidance from people considered management. You lost your spot at the table, darling. Even before you lost the belt. I think, maybe, Ozy did you a favour with that. Take it from someone that went through a similar thing. Losing that one thing that kept me going, taught me several lessons. One, I don’t need a title to be the best of the company. Two, no loss will end my story. And three, most importantly, Elena DeDraca always survives. Three things you shall write down and repeat daily.”
Somewhere in the distance she heard the engine of a car being turned off. Doors opening and closing. She knew what this meant, but wasn't finished with her talk.
“Maybe you will find peace, Mark. Perhaps you will become the greatest Project Honor had ever seen. And possibly one day you are the Legacy champion. But, and that is where I am the party crasher, not today. And especially not till I am done with this company. You can call me arrogant, I am used to this by now, but you can not label me a liar. Bit by bit you will realise that I have a pretty clear picture of you. Because that is what a true champion does. They pay attention without anyone noticing. Man, I should get money for my survival tips.”
Elena once more got up from the mat, rolling it neatly together. She heard the front door. The excitement began to grow steadily.
“One last word before I bid you farewell, friend. I label you a smart man, maybe not the smartest, but smart enough. Doesn’t happen every day in this business that you get someone that can actually follow your words. So I want you to take a moment for yourself and think this through. Look at my time in Honor. I was willing to put everything on the line without ever looking back. I sacrificed my well being to stand here as the leading force in the company. So just imagine, for a moment, what my limits are. You got it in front of your inner eye? Good. Now scratch it, Mark. Because the truth is this, there are no limits when it comes to me. We will take this dance together, but you won’t get the chance to lead. Instead you will realise you were meant to follow. Period”
“Yours truly.”
