February 17th- After Climax Control

Backstage in the trainer's area, Misty is being checked out following the attack from Odette Ryder.  Odette had viciously hit her not once, but twice with a steel chair, and after being helped backstage, Misty's disciples had insisted she get looked at.  Misty had tried to argue otherwise, repeatedly insisting that she was fine, but Ruby and the brothers had both seen the pained expression on her face when her back moved a certain way.  Normally they would contact Dr. Lord, but as they wouldn't be back in Vegas for some time, the SCW training staff would have to do.

The brothers wait just outside the door, while Ruby is inside, quietly observing the training staff as they work their "magic" on Misty, who is laying on an exam table.  If Misty is in any pain, she is hiding it well, as she has a bit of a smile on her face as the trainer stretches and bends her leg.

Misty: Ruby, don't look so concerned.  I've been through worse.  You know that as well as I do.

Ruby: While that may be true, my Queen, considering you only returned just a few months ago from your injuries last summer, you can never be too careful.  

As the trainer bends Misty's leg in closer to her, Misty winces a bit.  Ruby takes a concerned step forward, looking at the trainer furiously.  Misty holds her hand up as if telling Ruby everything is fine.

Misty: Relax, Ruby!  The muscles in my back are just a little tight now.

Trainer: That's a possibility, Misty, but to be sure--

Misty: I think I know my own body, thank you.  Just do your job so I can leave.

The trainer glances toward Ruby, but she is paying no attention to him.  She is too concerned for Misty to care.  He gets back to doing his job, working on various stretching techniques to help ease Misty's discomfort, though she continues to deny it.  After a few minutes, Zane peeks his head inside the door, getting the attention of both Ruby and Misty.

Zane: My Queen--

Misty: Let me take a wild guess.  A certain someone is here to get an interview?

Zane nods, and Ruby rolls her eyes in clear annoyance.  Misty waves the trainer away, having had enough, and she slowly sits up on the exam table.

Misty: Let her in, Zane.  Might as well get this over with.

Zane nods and disappears back outside the room.  A moment later, SCW reporter Pussy Willow appears, looking about as thrilled to be there as Misty is.  Which isn't very thrilled at all.  Pussy Willow takes one look at Misty, and grins.

PW: Finally got a taste of your own medicine, eh Misty?  How are you feeling?

Misty laughs as she takes a step down from the exam table, hiding any pain she may be feeling.

Misty: Oh, please, Miss Willow.  You asked that question as if you really expect me to be in horrible pain at the moment.  That pathetic attack by Miss Ryder was nothing.

PW: You may believe that yourself, but I don't think anyone else believes it.  

Misty: Like I give a damn?

Pussy Willow smiles, and then shrugs.  She glances at Ruby, who is glaring at her with vicious eyes.

PW: It appears as though Thatcher was wise to be concerned about having you as a partner.  You must be very proud of yourself for intentionally getting yourself disqualified tonight.

Misty: Every decision I make I am proud of, Miss Willow.  Thatcher was clearly on his way to being pinned had I not stepped in and did what I did.  None of you may like it, but if I'm going to lose a match, I'd rather do it on MY terms.  

PW: At least you can admit that you were on your way to losing that match.

Misty holds her hand up and glares at Pussy Willow.  She takes a step forward, keeping her angry gaze locked on the blonde reporter.

Misty: Excuse me?  I think I must have heard you wrong, because surely you didn't say that I was on my way to losing?  

PW: That is exactly what I said.

Misty: Listen here, blondie.  I wasn't on my way to losing.  While Thatcher was in the ring getting his ass kicked by Jordan Williams, I was outside the ring taking care of little miss Aussie, Odette Ryder!  I carried our team through the first two weeks of the tournament.  Thatcher can deny it all he wants.  Everyone knows who lead that team to victory the first two rounds, because it sure as hell wasn't him.  So, no, I was not on my way to losing that match.  Thatcher was.

Misty folds her arms across her chest, and Ruby approaches her, standing at her side.  Pussy Willow nods.

PW: Good argument.  A self-centered on at that, but Thatcher isn't exactly here to defend himself on that.  Although, there are rumors swirling around already that your decision to get yourself disqualified might have been for a different reason.

Misty: And what reason might that be?  Please, enlighten me Miss Willow.

PW: Well, since you asked, I suppose I'll go ahead and answer, but I'll answer as a question.  Did you get yourself intentionally disqualified to save yourself from possibly being pinned by Odette for a second time?  She already holds--

Pussy Willow is cut off quickly as Misty holds her finger up, silencing her, and Ruby steps forward ready to attack.  Misty quickly pulls Ruby back, and steps towards Pussy Willow herself.  She gets directly in Pussy Willow's face, nostrils flared.

Misty: Don't you DARE finish that sentence, Miss Willow.  I know what you were about to say and I know what you are thinking.  You couldn't be more wrong!  Regardless of what you or anyone else thinks, I pushed Jordan off of the top rope to prevent Thatcher form being pinned, not me!  I was handling Miss Ryder just fine, which is more than my so called partner can say about himself!  Odette may hold one single victory over me, Miss Willow, but that will be the only victory she gets.  That is a fact!

Pussy Willow lets out a laugh, but nods anyway.

PW: If you say so, but what do you plan to do now?  Blaze of Glory II is just two weeks away, and your opponent still hasn't been announced.  Had you not cost yourself the match, you would know your match.  You would know what you are up against.

Misty: It doesn't matter who I face in two weeks, I will still walk away the winner.  We already know that I won't be facing Odette Ryder, so whoever they put against me will be no problem at all.  There's not much competition here in SCW lately anyway, is there?

Before Pussy Willow can respond, or ask another question, Ruby steps forward, placing her hand on Pussy Willow's shoulder, and holding her back.

Ruby: Do not speak another word, harlot!  She is done answering all of your ignorant and misguided questions!  

PW: Excuse me, but unless you are the one signing my paychecks, I'm not finished.  And I suggest if you do not want to be permanently banned from SCW all together, you will take your disgusting hand off of my shoulder.

Ruby doesn't seem intimidated by Pussy Willow, and when she attempts to take another step forward, Misty grabs her by the arm, pulling her back once again.  Misty quietly orders her to stand back, before she turns to face Pussy Willow again.

PW: To answer your question, Misty, I believe there is plenty of competition on the Bombshell roster.  However, you seem to think you are so much better than everyone, but who is the champion?  Oh, that's right.  It's not you.  It's Vixen.

Misty lets out a laugh.

Misty: That doesn't mean anything, Miss Willow.  The only reason that Vixen holds that title is because I have been preoccupied with Odette Ryder lately.  That coupled with the fact that Mark Ward, Christian Underwood and Erik Staggs have yet to give me my shot at the title is further reason.  They are just delaying the inevitable.

PW: And yet you continue to focus solely on Odette Ryder?  If you are so positive that you, how did you put it...own the Bombshell Division, why not prove it by leaving Odette alone?

Misty shakes her head and lets out a deep sigh.  She squeezes the bridge of her nose in frustration and she looks to the ground.

Misty: You know what?  I am sick and tired of explaining myself to you over and over again, Miss Willow.  Do you think that even I were to leave Odette alone, that would change anything?  I proved myself long before going after Odette, and I've proved myself since my return.  I've defeated the so-called competition over and over again.  THAT is how I prove that I own the Bombshell division.  If the bosses want someone like Vixen leading the Bombshell division...Well, that is their problem, isn't it?  They should be thankful I haven't demanded a title shot, unlike our current champion who had to do it repeatedly.  

PW: That may be true, but Vixen deserved her shot, don't you agree?  She earned it a long time ago.

Misty: Really?  And when was that?  When she failed at beating me for that very title just last summer at Into The Void?  Or before then when I pinned her in the triple threat match with Raynin at London Brawling for the Bombshell Championship?  Or, was it just two weeks ago when I pinned her and eliminated her and Nick Jones from the mixed tag tournament?  You tell me, Miss Willow.  What has Vixen EVER done to earn being the Bombshell Champion?

Pussy Willow thinks for a moment, trying to find the right way to answer that question but before she can respond, Misty interrupts her yet again.

Misty: That's exactly what I thought.  Nothing.  Vixen has done nothing to deserve being the Bombshell Champion.  She just got lucky that when she finally got another shot at the title, she was facing someone a hell of a lot easier to beat than me.  

Just then the door to room opens, and Damien walks in holding a sheet of paper in his hand.  All three women turn to look at him, but he has his eyes locked on Misty, with just the tiniest hint of a grin at the corner of his mouth.

Misty: What is it Damien?

Damien: They've just released the card for Blaze of Glory II, my Queen.  I think you will be quite pleased with your match.

Damien holds the piece of paper out to Misty and she snatches it quickly.  She looks down the list of the scheduled matches and when her eyes fall on her match, her lips turn up in a wicked grin and she laughs a slow evil laugh.

Misty: Well, well, well...It seems as though Mark, Christian and Erik have finally wisened up.  Miss Willow, in just two weeks time, everyone is going to find out once and for all, just how much Vixen deserves that title.  Because she is defending it against yours truly.

Misty then holds the paper out to Pussy Willow.  The smile never leaves her face as Pussy Willow takes the paper and sees for herself that the match has been booked.  Vixen will defend the Bombshell Championship against Misty at Blaze of Glory II.

PW: I guess congratulations are in order, Misty.  You're finally getting your shot at the Bombshell Championship again.  Good luck.

Misty: Perhaps you should go wish Vixen luck, Miss Willow.  Because it is she who needs all the luck in the world if she intends to keep that title.  Which, unfortunately, she won't.  Now, if you will excuse me, my disciples and I need to get going.  Oh, and if you happen to speak to Vixen anytime soon, send her a little message for me.

PW: And what might that be?

Misty steps forward, getting right in Pussy Willow's face.

Misty: Tell her to make sure that belt is nice and polished up for me, because at Blaze of Glory II, the title will be returning to the rightful champion.

Misty then walks away, snapping her fingers and Damien and Ruby obediently follow behind her.  They disappear out the door, and Pussy Willow looks at the card one more time, shaking her head.

PW: I know I should be impartial here, but I really hope Vixen kicks that woman's ass.

Pussy Willow then folds the piece of paper, and disappears out of the room, and the scene fades out.

********************

Saturday February 23rd
Nova Scotia, Canada


The clock is ticking down until the moment Misty has been waiting seven long months for.  It has been seven months since she lost the Bombshell Championship to Brooklyn Carter, albeit not without a little assistance from the fire-haired amazon, Roxanne.  Surely she would have had her return shot at the title sooner, had she not been put out of commission the following week in the now infamous "Bloodbath" match against Roxanne.  

In the months that followed, she watched four different women carry the title.  As she was recuperating from her injuries, and waiting for the moment to return to SCW, she sat back and watched as the Bombshell Championship was passed around in a pathetic version of Hot Potato!  The more that happened, the angrier she got, though when she finally made her return, she didn't do what everyone expected her to.  Instead of going after the title she claimed should still be hers, she went a different route and targeted a woman who was no longer the Bombshell Champion.  Granted, Odette had a shot to recapture the Bombshell Championship not long after Misty had returned, and Misty had hoped she would walk away victorious in that attempt.  Sadly, things did not work out that way.  Odette had failed, allowing Amanda Cortez to walk away with the title, and Misty's hopes of regaining the title had vanished...even if temporarily.

And while she kept herself preoccupied in her war against Odette Ryder, there wasn't a moment that went by that Misty didn't think about the Bombshell title.  Not a second passed where she didn't long for the title to be around her waist once again...where it should have been all along.  

Now she has her chance to get the title back, when it should have never left her possession in the first place.  She is trying to place her war with Odette Ryder on the back burner temporarily, and is focusing on getting her title back...and she plans to do just that.

With Blaze of Glory II just a week away, Misty has something else to focus on at the moment.  The second round of the NWA J-Cup Tournament is set to take place on Sunday, and Misty will be facing Jessie Salco, as both women attempt to get one step closer to winning the whole tournament.  And for Misty, that means one step closer to being crowned the J-Cup winner for a second year in a row, and getting her chance to reclaim the NWA World Cruiserweight Title which she lost last summer.  And while she should be concentrating on the J-Cup tournament as it looms around the corner, her mind is distracted by the words Odette Ryder had spoken in her promo last week to truly concentrate on her impending match against Jessie Salco.

At this very moment, Misty is sitting in her hotel room, quietly thinking to herself.  Ruby and the brothers are all in their own hotel rooms on the same floor, though Misty had told them she needed some time to herself for a little while.  So what is she doing?  She is looking out her window at a snow-covered Nova Scotia, and her laptop sits on the desk next to her.  It is paused on the video of Odette's promo last week, and for the moment, she ignores it.  As she stares out the window, at the snow, memories flood her mind.  She tries to quickly shake them away, but it is too little too late.

She remembers a time when her life was complete...

********************

Winter 2010/2011
St. Louis, Missouri

Anyone who lives in the Midwest can tell you how unpredictable the winter months can be.  We can go from having seasonably chilly temperatures one day to a spring like day the next and then back to the frigid temperatures the day after.  It can be quite frustrating, especially for young children who happen to love the winter months, when snow is supposed to be a regular sight to see.  Young Eden Staggs is one of these children.  

She had been anxiously waiting all winter for a large enough amount of snow to fall so she could go outside and build a snowman, pulling her parents, Spike and Misty and her older brother Timmy, along with her.  And while she was only three years old, she was already quite vocal and smart for her age, proving to be the handful in the Staggs household.  Imagine her reaction as she woke this morning and looked out her window to see what she had been waiting for all winter.  Snow!  And plenty of it!  She sprang out of her brand new "big girl bed" Spike and Misty had just purchased for her a few weeks ago, bounding out of her room and into her parents room excitedly, where Spike and Misty were still fast asleep.  

Not for long, however, as Eden jumped up onto the edge of their bed, quickly making her way to the front of the bed in her efforts to wake her parents.

Eden: Mommy!  Daddy!  Wakey wakey!  Look outside! Look!  Snow!!

She jumped up and down with her childish excitement, not paying any attention to where she was jumping.  Moments later, she jumped right on to Spike's stomach, and he let out a loud grunt, as Misty sat up next to him with a laugh.  She quickly scooped Eden up into her arms, hugging her daughter.

Misty: Well good morning to you too, Eden.

Eden: Snow, Mommy!  SNOW!!

Spike then sat up in the bed, holding his stomach and letting out a slight cough, though he had a smile on his face regardless.

Spike: You sure you don't want her to be a wrestler, babe?  She knocked the breath right out of me and she's only three...

Misty sent a glare in Spike's direction, shaking her head in the process.  He held his hands up defeated and laughed it off, before he looked out their bedroom window, confirming what his three year old daughter had already told them.

Spike: And yes, I see the snow now Eden.  Looks like Timmy and I are going to have a hell of a time shoveling the driveway.

Eden: I'll help!  I'll help!

Misty and Spike both share a laugh at Eden's eagerness to help with anything that involves the snow.  Eden jumps down from the bed and bolts out of the room.  A short while later, her older brother Timmy is heard shouting from his room.  Misty lowers her head and shakes it but keeps a smile on her face and she taps Spike's leg.

Misty: Looks like we better get a move on it before she runs out of the house herself.

Misty is the first to get out of bed, as she heads out of the room to go find Eden.  Spike follows a few minutes later.  Within an hour or so all four are outside, dressed in their winter gear of course.  As expected, Spike and Timmy are dutifully shoveling the snow out of the driveway.  Although Eden had said she would help, she instead is running around the front yard, being occupied by Misty.  Timmy doesn't seem very happy as he shovels away at the snow.

Timmy: You know, Dad, this would go a hell of a lot quicker if you would just buy a snow thrower?  

Spike: Yes, I realize that, Timmy.  But that would mean that you would actually volunteer to clear the driveway.

With a shrug of his shoulders, Timmy can't argue that, and the two get back to shoveling.  Just as they are almost finished, Spike is pelted in the back of the head by a neatly packed snowball.  He spins around slowly, and looks at Misty standing by the garage.  She is clearly trying to hide a smile, and innocently points to Eden who is standing next to her giggling.

Spike: Really, babe?  You're going to blame our three year old daughter for that?

Misty: She apparently has a great throwing arm.

Eden: Hey!  Mommy did it!

Misty's jaw drops in surprise as she looks down to Eden who just ratted her out.  Spike and Timmy both laugh, as Spike whispers something to Timmy.  Timmy nods with a mischievous smile and he slowly sneaks around the driveway, as Misty has her attention on Eden.

Misty: Thanks a lot, Eden!  I thought us women were supposed to stick together!

Eden again giggles as she takes off running back to the front yard.  Spike is making his way over to Misty with a big grin on his face.  Misty keeps her eye on him, now very suspicious of that look that she knows all too well.  She is too distracted by Spike, that she doesn't notice Timmy come right up behind her, holding a nice sized snowball in his hand, and he is just waiting for his opportunity to strike.

Misty: Don't even think about it, Spike.  I know that look!

Spike: What look is that, babe?

Misty: Oh you know what look!  The look that--

Misty is quickly cut off as Timmy hits her in the back of her head with the snowball, laughs and runs off towards Eden.  Spike continues stalking his way to his fiancee, with his right hand behind his back, which Misty pays no attention to.  She just keeps nodding, dusting the snow off of her, until Spike is directly in front of her, grinning from ear to ear.

Misty: Alright, alright.  You guys got me back.  I've learned--

*SPLAT!*

Misty is quickly cut off again, although this time it is from a nice handful of snow that Spike shoves right in her face.  Timmy and Eden are watching, both laughing and giggling away as Spike stands there with a satisfied smile on his face.  Misty slowly wipes the snow off of her face, and she glares at Spike.  He keeps the satisfied smile on his face, and he is clearly holding himself back from laughing.

Misty: That was very...amusing.  

Spike: I thought so.

Misty: You do realize this means war, right?  I hit you in the back of the head!  You played dirty and--

Two snowballs come flying right at Misty, nailing her in the side and the leg.  Spike can't stop himself from laughing this time as Misty turns and looks at Eden and Timmy.  They aren't even trying to hide their innocence and they are quickly trying to scoop up some more snowballs.  Misty shakes her head, and when she starts to walk towards them, Spike scoops her up, throwing her over his shoulder.

Misty: Spike!  What are you doing!  Put me down!

Spike: What did you say?

Misty: I said PUT ME--

Spike drops her right into a big pile of snow, looking down at her with another grin.

Misty: ....down.  

Eden and Timmy then begin tossing handfuls of snow at Misty as she screams and shouts, albeit it playfully.  She struggles to get back to her feet and Spike begins tossing snow at her also, until Misty gets right under his feet and trips him, though he falls face first into the snow.  A friendly battle in the snow ensues, as they all run around having a fun time.

********************

Back to The Present

A warm smile grows on Misty's face as that memory flashes through her mind.  She continues to stare out the window, lost in her daydream for several minutes, before she is brought back to reality by a knock at her door.  She shakes her head, then turns and heads toward the door, looking out the peephole.  A confused look crosses her face, as she opens the door to find a delivery man, holding a vase with some beautiful flowers in his hand.

Delivery Man: I have a delivery for a Misty?

Misty: That would be me.

Delivery Man: Great.  Just sign here please.

He hands Misty the form to sign, along with a pen.  She quickly signs her name, and he hands her the vase.  She takes it and he walks off down the hall.  Misty disappears back into her room, searching through the flowers for a card.  She finds it a few moments later, and reads it after she sets the flowers down on the dresser next to the TV.

"Best of luck to the queen.  Not that you need it. -Giani Di Luca"

Misty: So this is the delivery Giani was talking about on Twitter last night.  How very kind of him.

Misty glances back towards the window, but her eyes fall on her laptop and the video that is paused on the screen.  She growls as she walks over to the laptop, quickly closing the video and turning the laptop away from her.

Misty: So, Miss Ryder, you think I have nothing, huh?  Well, I'll show you how much of nothing I have after Blaze of Glory II when I take that title away from Vixen.  I'll show you how much of nothing I have when I win this whole J-Cup tournament and go on to win the NWA Cruiserweight Title again.  I'll show you, Odette...I'll show you.

Misty sits in the chair at the desk, placing the laptop in front of her.  After searching around the computer for a few seconds, she begins quickly typing away, concentrating on the screen and the words as she types.

********************

From The Mind of Your Queen
Journal Entry #4

There is no better way to start this entry off than by simply saying it is about time!  It is about time Mark, Christian and Erik placed a deserving woman against the Bombshell Champion with the title on the line.  It is about time they gave me my shot at the title, when they know that I never should have lost it in the first place.  If it weren't for Roxanne, I never would have lost it in the first place.  Brooklyn Carter never would have been the Bombshell Champion.  Odette never would have been the Bombshell Champion, and Mercedes and Amanda Cortez sure as shit never would have been the Bombshell Champion!  

And Vixen...You would have still been chasing after a dream that you never would have achieved.  All your fighting...all your hard work would still be unnoticed, and deep down, you know I'm right.  How many times have you faced me, Vixen?  How many of those times have you beat me?  Allow me to refresh your memory, if you have forgotten.

Zero, Vixen.  You haven't beaten me one single solitary time, and do you honestly expect this time to be any different, especially when you carry the one thing I want most...the one thing I have been fighting for since I returned.  No, before that even.  I have been fighting for the Bombshell Championship since the day I set foot in Sin City Wrestling!  From the very beginning I have been fighting each and every opponent that has stepped before me, and I have proved myself worthy of holding that title.  

I was the first to carry that title.  Not only that, but I was the first woman to carry that title twice!  By those simple facts, that title belongs to me!  I own it, just like I own the Bombshell Division!  You want to walk around, claiming to carry the championship with pride and dignity?  HA!  That is simply laughable.  The fact that it is around the waist of someone in NXT tarnishes it, but that is all going to change very soon, Vixen.  You can try all you want to deny it, but you know...You know your time as the Bombshell Champion is just about up.  

Take a look at what you have in your life right now, Vixen.  Spike.  NXT.  The Bombshell Championship.  I had it all once before, and whether you like it or not, I am the woman who can and will just as easily take it all away from you with a snap of my fingers.  You think I'm joking, don't you?

NXT...The stable that you all so proudly represent.  I can destroy that you know, Vixen.  I'm already in the process.  Mark Ward can make his attempts all he wants, but I am the only one who holds the key to destroying The New Xtremes once and for all.  It's a lot easier than I am making it seem, though.  I'm just having a little fun before I detonate the bomb, so to speak.

Let's take a look at my recent matches, yes?  Just two weeks ago, in the Blast From the Past Mixed Tag tournament, you and I faced off.  How did that end, Vixen?  Oh right...I pinned you.  Last week, it was Odette Ryder.  Now, the ending to that match didn't exactly go as I had originally planned, but I do believe I handled Miss Ryder quite well.  Her chair attack against me had no effect on me, I can assure you that, as well as the fact that my work with her is far from over.  Though she is doing most of the work herself.

And tomorrow...Miss Jessie Salco will suffer the same fate as last time.  She wants to win the J-Cup?  Unfortunately for her, she has the unlucky task of trying to stop.  Try as she may, she'll still fail.  As will you, should you be lucky enough to advance and we find ourselves facing each other yet again.  Nothing you do can stop me, Vixen.  I will win the J-Cup tournament.  I will win the Bombshell Championship.  And should you be the NWA Cruiserweight Champion after Wrestleclassic...I will take that title from you as well.

Face it, Vixen...You'll never beat me.  See you soon.

**END FEED**

 "WHERE ARE YOU, YOU PRISSY LITTLE BITCH?!"

Misty's voice is heard throughout most of the backstage area of the E Center in Laughlin Nevada.  It is shortly after Misty and Thatcher's victorious Blast From The Past match over Nick Jones and Vixen, and the events that unfolded at the end have caused the two-time former Bombshell Champion's rampage backstage now.  Her mood had gone from a saddened painful state, to downright rage after the heartless prank had been pulled.  The thought of someone using the loss of her unborn child against her was just sick, and Misty would expect that from just about anyone...anyone except Odette!  

Sure, the two had been feuding for months now.  Yes, Misty was guilty of more than her fair share of mind games against SCW's only Australian Bombshell.  It was no lie she was playing those mind games in an attempt to get Odette to embrace the darkness that Misty knew was buried deep within Odette, just begging to be released, but for Odette to go this far...to use this painful loss against Misty was a big mistake.  And it would be her last.

No-Contact clause be damned.  Misty would be getting her hands on Odette Ryder, even if it was the last thing she ever did in Sin City Wrestling.  She wanted to wrap her hands around Odette's throat.  She wanted to do what she had done to her own sister just a few days before, and choke Odette, making the Aussie gasp and beg for a breath that would never come.  Misty wants to choke the life out of Odette Ryder.  She wants Odette to see the blazing look in her eyes...in her soul...as she took Odette's soul to the depths of hell for the decision she made this evening.  And Misty will be doing so with a huge grin on her face the entire time.

"Oh Miiiissss Ryyyyyyder!  Come out!  Come out where ever you are!  You scared little bitch!"

Misty looks around every corner and behind every door in her search for Odette.  She comes up empty-handed every time, but she is on a mission and she won't stop until she finds her.  She kicks a steel chair that is sitting outside a door, and grabs a backstage worker by the collar of his shirt, pinning him against the wall.  The poor man looks terrified, as she puts her face in his.

Misty: Where the hell is Odette Ryder?!  Tell me where she is!!

The man shakes his head in terror.

Worker: I...I d-d-don't know!  I haven't s-seen her!

Misty: Don't lie to me!  You know where she is!  Don't try and save her, because nothing..NOTHING will save her from the beating she has coming!  I know you've seen her, because she likes to toss her pretty little face in everyone's business!  Tell...me...where...she...is!

Misty starts shaking the man as she demands answers he obviously doesn't know.  He pleads with her to stop as he repeatedly tells her he has no idea where Odette is, but Misty is too enraged to even hear his begging and pleading.  After a minute or so she releases her hold on the man, and he falls to the ground, shaking.  Misty continues on down the hall, looking for Odette.  She continues opening every door in her search, yelling at each person who is in the rooms.  As her search keeps failing her, she only grows more frustrated and she reaches the exit leading to the parking lot.  She pulls at her long black hair, letting out a loud battle cry, and she kicks the door, surprisingly leaving a nice dent in it.

She begins pacing back and forth, tugging and pulling at her hair as the frustration builds.  Just then, her disciples catch up to her.  They stay a safe distance away for now as they have never seen their Queen this angry before.

Ruby: My Queen, please try and relax.  I know you want to find Miss Ryder, but--

Misty: Relax?  RELAX?!  I think I'm beyond the point of relaxing, Ruby!  That angelic little nitwit is going to experience pain like she has never experienced before after that shit she pulled out there!  Using my son; my precious baby boy who never even got the chance to join this world as a pawn in this feud!  It was a mistake that she is going to regret EVER making!

Misty's pale complexion has now turned a light shade of red as the anger consumes her.  Ruby slowly takes a few steps towards her, but an unexpected voice comes from behind the disciples, causing them all to turn and look at the man...the boss...now standing before them.  Christian Underwood is looking directly at Misty, an unpleasant look on his face as he sees the mood she is in.  He places a hand on Sebastian's chest, pushing the sandy blonde-haired disciple aside, and approaches Misty.  Misty pays him no mind as she paces back and forth in front of the door, mumbling inaudibly as she does so.

Christian: Just WHAT do you think you are doing?!  

Misty: What does it look like I'm doing?!  I'm looking for that goody two-shoes little brat!  I'm going to make her pay for what she did out there!

Christian shakes his head, glancing and pointing towards the door that Misty kicked, and the dent she caused.

Christian: I was referring to the damage you caused to that door, but thank you for ratting yourself out on your little plan.

Misty: Who gives a damn about the fucking door?!  It was collateral damage as I was imagining Odette's face in its place!  

Christian: Who gives a damn?  I'll tell you who.  The person paying for the repairs to that door.  The man who you are currently screaming at.  The man who also happens to be YOUR boss.  

Misty childishly rolls her eyes, showing she doesn't really care about the damage she caused, nor the repercussions that will happen as a result.

Christian: Okay.  Since you don't seem to care much about your actions, as soon as I get the bill for the repairs to this door, the cost will be deducted from your pay.  How does that sound?

Misty: Let me spell it out to you, Mr. Underwood.  I...don't...care!

Christian: I would watch how you speak to me, Misty.  You are walking on thin ice as it is, so do not push me further.  I am not the only one who has more than enough of your crap around here.

Misty lets out an unimpressed laugh that clearly says she could care less.  She takes one intimidating step towards her boss.

Misty: Is that supposed to scare me, boss?  What are you going to do?  Suspend me?  Book me in some lame match like you threaten the men with all the time?  I don't give a shit what you do anymore.  I will find Odette Ryder and I will make her suffer for what that little stunt she pulled!

Christian now takes a step towards Misty, getting within just inches from her, showing "The Queen of The Damned" that her attempt to intimidate him was unsuccessful.

Christian: I will admit, both are tempting thoughts, however to prove to you that I am through with your crap, and I am not joking, if you test my patience further, I'll have no choice but to fire you on the spot.  How does that sound to you?

Misty's face twitches as she fights to keep her temper under control.  Ruby and the brothers watch on silently, but they looks on their faces show they are just as shocked and appalled at Christian's announcement as Misty is.

Misty: You want to fire me, boss?  Go ahead and fucking do it!  But it won't stop me from ripping Odette apart limb from limb!

Christian: Oh, yes it will.  I find it rather amusing that you are so convinced that Odette Ryder was behind that scene earlier.

Misty: Of course she was behind it!  She is the only--

Christian begins shaking his head, interrupting the furious Bombshell standing in front of him.  Misty folds her arms across her chest, looking at him with a now confused, yet still equally furious, expression on her face.

Misty: Why are you shaking your head?  She was behind it!

Christian: Sorry to disappoint you, Misty, but I don't think she was.  Though she would be the first suspect given her current feelings toward you.  Let me remind you, however, that Odette was also the victim of one of the many attacks pulled tonight.  

Misty: Oh please!  She wasn't attacked at all!  Jordan Williams was!

Christian: That may be true, but the attack was against Odette either way.  I have it on good authority that Odette is terrified of clowns, and wouldn't you know, Jordan was attacked and painted up to look like a clown?  Now, I'd say that was an attack against Odette just as much as it was against Jordan.  Wouldn't you agree?

Misty laughs and shakes her head.  She doesn't say a word for a while as she claps her hands, giving her boss a slow round of applause.

Misty: Great speech, boss.  Excellent words used to defend the precious light of SCW, but you can't be dumb enough to believe a word you just said.  Odette may be deathly afraid of clowns, but I would not put it past her to have done that herself!  Pardon the pun, but she would paint herself the victim in all of this if it meant keeping her reputation as the perfect little princess untarnished.  

Christian: If you want to believe that, I can not stop you, but I can stop you from attacking Odette when you have no proof what-so-ever that she was behind the pranks this evening.  

Misty: Nothing is going to stop me, boss.  NOTHING!

Christian shrugs his shoulders in disappointment.

Christian: Pity.  And to think I was just going to give you the good news.  I guess you and Thatcher will just have to forfeit your match next week.  Poor Thatcher is going to be very disappointed.

Misty: I don't give a shit about this damn tournament, and I sure as hell don't give a shit about Thatcher being disappointed!  I want Odette Ryder to pay--

Christian: And I have no doubt that she would have paid a fair price for the crime you are accusing her of...next week.

Misty opens her mouth to interrupt Christian, but stops herself quickly.

Misty: Excuse me?

Christian: Oh, it doesn't matter does it?  After all, you are so hell bent on getting your revenge on Odette now.  As much as I'd like to stop you, I don't really think I should anymore.  I'd be making a lot of people quite satisfied by firing you should you attack Odette.

Misty: Would you just get to your point!

Christian: I really don't see the point anymore.  You apparently don't want to settle the score in the ring, so go ahead.  If you really want to attack Odette and lose your job, don't let me stop you.

Misty: Wait a damn minute!  Do you mean to tell me that--

Christian begins nodding his head, answering Misty's question.

Christian: That your's and Thatcher's next opponents in the tournament just happens to be none other than the team of Jordan Williams and Odette Ryder?  I just drew that matches a little while ago.  It's very disappointing that you'd be so selfish as to deny Thatcher such a spectacular match next week.

Misty holds her hand up, telling Christian to hold on a moment.  Her mood suddenly takes a 180 degree turn, as a sadistic grin grows on her face.

Misty: That won't be necessary, Mr. Underwood.  I'd hate to disappoint Mr. Rex, after all.  The match will go on as scheduled, and you have my word that I will not touch so much as a hair on Odette's pretty little head before the bell rings.

Christian: No, no, no.  You clearly have your mind made up--

Misty: I've changed my mind, alright!  You should know me well enough by now to know that I don't want to lose my damn job, especially not over someone like Odette Ryder!  The match will happen, and I'll take my revenge out in the ring.  You have my word.

Christian laughs.

Christian: As if anyone can trust you when you say that?  If that is what you want, then so be it, but that No Contact clause remains in place until that bell rings.

Misty: Of course.  I understand, Mr. Underwood.  I'll be a model Bombshell this next week.

Christian: Ha!  I don't think you could ever be a model Bombshell.  Now, as long as you are done damaging this building, I have work to do.  

Misty: Absolutely.  We were just getting ready to leave anyway, right guys?

Christian turns to glance at Misty's disciples, all of whom have surprised looks on their faces, but they are nodding in agreement with Misty.  Dante is the one to break the silence.

Dante: Yes, we were.  I was just on my way to go pull the van around.

Dante steps away from the group as he walks past Misty and Christian, and walks out the dented door to go get their van.  Christian has a look on his face that says he doesn't believe them, but he does not push the matter further.

Christian: Right.  Well, I will see you in Carson City next week.

Misty: Wouldn't miss it for the world, boss.  Have a pleasant evening.

Misty attempts to sound pleasant herself as she says this to Christian, but he just shrugs it off as he walks away.  Ruby, Damien, Sebastian and Zane all walk up to Misty, all looking ready to voice their opinions on this latest turn of events.  Misty holds her hand up, silencing them before any of them can get a word out.

Misty: Everything is just fine, guys.  Things couldn't have worked out more perfectly than if I had planned them myself.  Thatcher and I will advance to the finals of this tournament, and I get to further destroy Odette Ryder in the process.  It is a win win situation.

Ruby: If that is what you think, my Queen.

Misty: Oh, it is, Ruby.  It is.  This tournament is no longer a distraction from this war with Odette.  It has now brought us into another battle.  A battle that Odette will not walk away with the victory in this time.  I hope Mr. Williams doesn't expect to advance to the finals, because I can not allow that to happen.

Zane heads over and opens the door, allowing his queen to be the first to walk out to the parking lot.  Ruby, Damien and Sebastian follow suit and Dante has just arrived by the door, waiting for them in the van.  The group gets into the van, and moments later the van speeds off out of the parking lot and away from the building and the scene fades out.

********************

After a long and mostly successful show in Laughlin, Nevada, Misty and her disciples have now returned to their home in Las Vegas.  They will only be here for a few days, of course, before they have to head to Carson City for the next show, where Misty's war with Odette Ryder once again comes to a head as Misty and Thatcher face Odette and Jordan in the semi-finals of the Blast From the Past tournament.  Misty is sleeping peacefully in her room, or so it seems.  After what happened last week, Misty has been a model patient, and obeyed Dr. Lord's orders by taking the medicine he had prescribed to her to help her sleep at night.  It had appeared to be working, as ever since then, she has been sleeping through the night, and she hasn't had so much as one sleepwalking incident like the last.  This all helps Ruby and the brothers sleep easier as well, lowering the tension and the concern over Misty's behavior.

Though she has appeared to be sleeping peacefully this evening, the events inside her mind are about to tell a different story, however.  And because the sleeping pills have kicked in, as her mind plays its tricks on her, she will be unable to wake herself from the deep sleep she finds herself in.  In her mind, she is watching herself sleeping on her bed.  She is watching with a content and relaxed smile, when a faint voice comes from somewhere inside the room.

Voice: Mommy...Mommy wake up.  I'm here, Mommy.

She opens her eyes, inside her mind of course.  She doesn't move an inch on the bed, however, as she wonders if she is only hearing things.  The voice comes again, though, proving she isn't hearing things.

Voice: Mommy, can't you hear me?  I'm here.  You want to see me, don't you?  You want to speak to me, right?  You need to wake up.

Misty clenches her eyes shut, trying to get the voice to leave her alone.  Why was this happening again?  She thought she was on the way to finally getting a good nights sleep, and now this comes out of nowhere.  She would just ignore the voice.  She had no other option.  It wasn't real.  Her son speaking to her was all a figment of her imagination.

Boy: Quit pretending like you don't hear me, Mommy.  I know you can.  I know the pain you are in, but I am here to help you.  I know how much you miss me.  Please sit up and look at me.  Please talk to me, Mommy.

Misty begins shaking her head, fighting the urge to acknowledge his voice.  She can't do this to herself.  She can't send herself into this downward spiral of emotions all this pain has caused, and if she gives in and listens his voice, that is exactly what would happen.

Boy: I know the thoughts that go through your mind every day, Mommy.  I know you blame yourself for my death.  You want to place the blame on Roxanne, and you do everything you can to do just that, but we both know who you put at fault.  You blame yourself.  You can't understand how you didn't know that I existed, and by the time you found out, it was too late.  I was already gone.  

Misty: Stop...Please stop!

Boy: I know you don't want me to.  I can sense the pain you are feeling just hearing my voice, but I also know the relief it brings you.  I am not here to cause you any more pain.  I am here to help you.  You have to let me help you.

Misty: You can't help me.  No one can help me!  I deserve everything I am going through.

She keeps her eyes closed, fighting to hold back the tears as they form in her eyes.  She feels a gentle breeze blow past her face, and the faint touch of a child's hand on her cheek.  It brings both relief and heartache.

Boy: Open your eyes, Mommy.  

Misty shakes her head, knowing what she will see if she opens her eyes.  She can't put herself through that, no matter how much she wants to.

Misty: Please...don't ask me to do that.  Don't do this to me.

Boy: You have to face me.  You know you do.  Now, open your eyes and look at me.  You can do it.  I know you can.

She can feel his faint touch once again as his hand runs over her forehead, and through her hair, and she can't fight in any longer.  She needs to see his face.  She needs to see the son she never had the chance to meet.  She needs to face the son whose life never even began because of her.  Misty finally gives in and slowly opens her eyes, looking directly in front of her.  While her room is considerably darkened, the angelic form of her son standing in front of her brings a soft glow to the room.  She looks at her son, the form of a young boy, and can't help but notice just how much he resembles Spike, and for good reason.  Why should he resemble her in the least bit, when he couldn't even live a moment of his life thanks to her...his own mother.

He offers his mother a warm smile, but she can't get herself to smile back.  She just stares at him, paralyzed by her own heartache and guilt.  He touches her again, and she closes her eyes briefly, wishing this wasn't a dream.

Boy: Why do you blame yourself, Mommy?  You didn't even know I existed.

Misty: Why?  Why didn't I know?  How could I not know you existed?  I am responsible for your death, because there is no one else to blame.  I haven't spoken to Roxanne since that dreaded night, but I am sure she is well aware of just what was lost in that match.  Even if I had managed to defeat her, I still lost because I lost you.  

Boy: Have you taken even a second to sit back and look at the bigger picture?  Have you even thought about the real reason why I died that night?  

Misty looks into his eyes, and it is almost as if she is looking in Spike's eyes.  She doesn't answer her son as she looks at him, now fighting the urge to even blink.  The longer she looks at him, the more she doesn't want this dream to end.

Boy: I was never supposed to be, Mommy.  I was not meant to meet this earth, or to meet you, Daddy, Timmy or Eden.  Death was my ultimate fate.

Misty: How...How can you even say that?  If you were never meant to be, what was the purpose of your life even beginning inside of me?  If you were never meant to be, you shouldn't have--

He places a finger over her mouth, silencing her before she has a chance to finish.  Her eyes begin to water even more, and it is almost impossible to hold them back further.  As one manages to escape, and roll down her cheek, her son wipes it away.

Boy: It was all part of the plan.  Can't you see?  

Misty: Plan?  What plan?!  How is losing you a part of any plan?!

Boy: Everything happens for a reason, Mommy.  You can try to make sense of it all you want, but you never will.  It will never make sense.  You can, however, learn to accept it.  

Misty shakes her head, letting an uncomfortable laugh escape.

Misty: I'll never accept it, son.  I'm not trying to get any of this to make sense.  I just want to know why this had to happen.  What plan was this all part of?

Boy: Life's plan...God's plan for you.

Misty: I'm not exactly the person you should be speaking to about God, son.

He smiles again, sending more waves of regret and heartache through Misty.  If only this weren't a dream...If only she could have really gotten a chance to see that smile.

Boy: Nothing you have done is unforgivable, Mommy.  So you left Daddy?  You walked out on Timmy and Eden and the rest of the family.  You didn't kill anyone.

Misty: I killed you.

He shakes his head, then places a hand over her heart, as if feeling the beating of her heart.

Boy: I know it wasn't intentional, Mommy.  I believe you when you say that if you could go back in time and change it, that you would.  That is proof right there that there is still hope for you.

Misty: What are you talking about?

Boy: To see the error of your ways, and to make amends. It might seem impossible, given everything that has happened, but where there is a will, there is a way.  You just have to believe.

Misty sits up in her bed, never taking her eyes off of the angelic form of her son.  He remains standing directly in front of her.

Misty: Why are you doing this?

Boy: To get you to follow the light, Mommy...

Misty's eyes grow wide as she thinks for a second, praying she didn't just hear those words coming from her son's mouth.

Misty: Excuse me?  What did you just say?

Boy: Follow the light.  You don't have to wage this war between good and evil, Mommy.  Follow the light, and all will be as it should be.

Misty begins shaking her head, now refusing to listen to him, but he keeps repeating those same words, as he slowly begins to back away from her.  His wings take their form behind him.

Boy: Follow the light.

Misty opens her eyes, watching as her son backs away from her.  She reaches out to him, but she doesn't stand up, hoping he'll stay with her.

Misty: No...Don't leave me.  Stay with me, son.

Boy: Follow the light.

Misty: No!  Stop saying that!  She made you say that, didn't she?  She got to you somehow!  

The boy spreads his wings proudly, looking at Misty with a loving smile on his face.  She looks at him, continuing to shake her head and plead with him to stay.

Boy: Follow the light, and all will be as it should be.  Follow the light.  End this war.  Make amends, Mommy.  You can be forgiven.  It isn't too late.

Misty: No, son.  I have to do this!  Darkness will prevail, my son.  There is no other option.

Boy: Follow the light, Mommy.  I know you can.

Misty watches as he begins to fade away.  The pain and anguish in her face only grows, as no matter what she does, he still leaves her.

Misty: I can't!  I won't let her win, son!  Darkness will prevail.  The darkness always prevails.  Odette Ryder will embrace it as I have, son.  The light will turn to dark!

Misty begins rocking back and forth as she sits on the edge of the bed, repeating over and over the same line.  Darkness will prevail.  Darkness will prevail.  She repeats it over and over in her mind, until the sleeping pill begins to wear off and she begins whispering it aloud.  She finally hears herself talking, and she slowly blinks her eyes, pulling herself out of the deep sleep.  She sits up in the bed, pulling her legs in close to her, and she buries her head in her knees, fighting the sobbing she feels coming on.  After a few deep breaths, she pulls herself together and gets out of bed, sliding into her slippers.  She walks over to her window, and pulls the curtain open allowing the sun to shine into her room.  She looks out to Spike's house in the distance, but quickly shakes her head and looks away, but when she looks down to the fence surrounding the building, a familiar face changes her mood completely.  She narrows her eyes and snarls as her father is trying to find a way through the fence, and ultimately, inside the building.

Misty won't give him that chance, however, as she storms out of her room and downstairs.  Outside, her father has found the way through the fence, and steps through it.  He looks at the building his daughter is living in, shaking his head disappointedly, and starts heading towards the front door.  He is soon stopped as his furious daughter approaches him, not looking as happy to see him as he is to see her.

Misty: What the hell are you doing here?

Misty's father looks her over, glad to see appears to be doing well, considering the physical state she had been left in following her match with Roxanne last summer.

Andrew: It's great to see you, too, Misty.  Thank you so much for calling me, or even your mother, to let us know you were okay.  After all, we only spent nearly three months trying to find you.

Misty: What do you want, Andrew?

Misty's father takes a few steps towards her, but she holds her hand up signaling he should walk no further.  He stops and holds his hands up, defeated, and remains where he is.

Andrew: You're my daughter.  Do I really need a reason to see you?

Misty: Apparently you do.  You never gave a shit when I was growing up, did you?  I've been back for four months now.  You can't tell me that you and Colleen had no idea.

He shakes his head disappointedly again, and folds his arms across his chest.  He glances up towards a window on the second floor, noticing Ruby watching on with a scowl.  He rolls his eyes at the woman and turns his attention back to his daughter.

Andrew: Of course we knew.  Your mother wanted to jump on the first plane out here as soon as she found out, but I told her not to.  

Misty: Aww, how sweet.  Are Mommy and Daddy getting back together?

Misty laughs at her own sarcasm.  Her father looks at her, and takes in a deep breath.

Andrew: Why are you doing this, Misty?

Misty: Doing what?

Andrew: Acting as though you don't care about anyone or anything but yourself.  You might have everybody else fooled, but I know it's all a front.  You're putting on this ridiculous Queen of the Damned bullshit.  Do you really enjoy being hated as much as you are?

Misty taps her chin for a second, thinking about her answer.  She nods with a satisfied smile, but it only further disappoints her father.

Misty: I don't give a shit who likes me or who hates me, Andrew.  I'm not here to make friends.  I'm not here to be the person you all want me to be.  I'm being the person I was meant to be.  If you don't like it, I don't care.

Andrew: And just who were you meant to be, Misty?  How can you stand there and justify your horrible actions this past year by using that excuse?

Misty: Because it's the truth.  You all want me to be this perfect person that I'm just not meant to be!  I'm being who I want to be and doing whatever I want to do with my life, regardless of what any of you think.  Do me a favor, and quit acting like you suddenly give a damn, because I'm a hell of a lot older and wiser to know the truth.

Andrew begins walking closer to Misty, clearly making her uncomfortable, but he doesn't care.  He ignores her signals to step back, until he is just inches away from her, looking at her with concern.

Andrew: What have these people done to you, Misty?  Those men...that woman...They've changed you completely!

Misty throws her head back and starts laughing.  She places her hand on her father's chest and takes a few steps forward, pushing him away.  She looks him in his worried eyes, giving him a cold evil stare.

Misty: They have done nothing to me!  They helped me!  You people are the real problem.  You're all trying to get me to be something that I'm not nor will I ever be, and I know damn well you're going to do the same thing to my daughter.  Well I have news for you, Andrew...I'm not going to let that happen.  I'm going to find a way to save my daughter from the likes of you people.  I'm going to find a way to keep her away from people like Odette Ryder and her follow the light bullshit!  Look into my eyes, Daddy dearest, and tell me that I am joking.  Tell me that there is one ounce of good in my soul, because I'm telling you, there's not. And Eden...Well my blood runs through her veins and she will follow in my footsteps!

Misty shoves her father away from her, sending him stumbling back and nearly to the ground.  He is able to stay on his feet, and he just stares at his daughter, visibly hurt and shaken by her behavior.  He brushes himself off and regains his composure as Ruby and Zane appear behind Misty, ready to intervene on their queen's behalf.  Misty's father sees them and takes a few steps back, admitting defeat.

Andrew: I'm not giving up hope, Misty.  You're my daughter and I want what is best for you, regardless if you are an adult or not.  I hope for your sake you see the light and realize the--

Misty: GET THE HELL OUT OF HERE!  DON'T YOU DARE SPEAK THOSE WORDS TO ME EVER AGAIN YOU WORTHLESS PIECE OF CRAP!

Misty looks as though she could attack him, even though he is her father.  Zane steps in front of Misty, ready to throw her father off the property, but there is no need for that as Misty's father backs away quickly.  He quickly makes his retreat, not saying so much as another word to Misty.  He heads back to his own vehicle and speeds away from the building.  Ruby and Zane approach Misty to check on her.

Ruby: Are you alright, my Queen?  The nerve of that--

Misty: I'm fine, Ruby!  

Ruby is nearly caught off guard as Misty interrupts her, but she makes no argument.

Zane: The brothers and I will make sure that man doesn't step foot on this property again, my Queen.  

Misty: I don't care, Zane!

Ruby and Zane look at each other curiously.  Misty shoves her way past them, storming back inside where she bounds upstairs and to her room, where she slams the door shut and locks herself inside, needing time to herself to clear her mind.  Damien, Dante and Sebastian all look towards Ruby and Zane as they appear upstairs as well, but neither of them has a good explanation for what happened.  They all leave Misty alone for a while, and go about their own business as the scene fades away.

********************

From The Mind of Your Queen
Journal Entry #3

I am giving you all fair warning right now that this entry will not be al sunshine and daisies.  Not that they have been so far, but some things have been happening as of late that I've honestly been letting build up inside of me, and not been really speaking about because I didn't think it needed to be discussed much.  Well, things are about to change, and to be perfectly honest, I don't give a damn how people react to this, or what they will make of it.

I'm not going to get in too deep with all of this, as I have an important upcoming matter to discuss, so bear with me.  If you choose not to, then that is your decision and I can not, nor do I care to stop you.  I'm not in this business to make friends, unlike several of my fellow co-workers.  I am here to do what I do best, and that is to kick ass and be the best that I can be.  

I don't want to be too personal here, and possibly bore any of you with some of the details of my life, but considering certain people keep popping up back into my life I feel as though I have no choice.  If any of you reading happen to see either of my parents, do not let their pity parties fool you.  They want to make people believe they are trying to make up for being shitty parents when myself and my sisters were growing up, but I think it is a little too late for that.  My sisters may not feel the same way, but I do.  My father was never around.  He never showed that he cared about Jackie, Desiree or I.  No, little miss perfect Dixie, got the receiving end of all of the love.  She and that wretched witch of a mother of hers(God rest her soul.)  It's been six years since my stepmother passed, but have things changed?  Hell no!  My father is still the same careless man he has always been.  He's not trying to make up for anything!

And my mother...Where is she right now?  Oh, that's right.  She's back in Chicago living her life away from the family she claims to love.  She might have tried to show concern the week after my match with Roxanne, but that concern was all fake.  It was all a lie.  She wants to get you people to believe her...to feel sorry for her, but guess what?  I don't!  I don't buy any of it.

And my sisters...Ha!  Do I even want to get started on any of them?  Not really.  Every single one of them knows what we had to deal with growing up.  Well, at least Jackie and Desiree do, yet they are so quick to forgive them!  They are so quick to just forget all the shit we went through and welcome our parents back into their lives with open arms, and they expect me to do the same?  I'm sorry, but I don't think so!  Hate me for that all you want, but it is just who I am.  

I do need to thank my parents for one thing, though.  They were a big factor in shaping me to be the woman I am today.  Their lack of concern and love for me or my sisters was just the beginning in building this heart of mine.  Yes, I do have a heart.  You all might think I only care for myself, but there is one other human being in this world who I care more about then myself.  It would have been two, but my precious son never even had the chance to live.  My daughter, however, is a different story.  There are certain people who are trying to turn her against me, and all because I made the decision to end my relationship with Spike.  Don't get me wrong, there were several months after leaving Spike where I didn't see Eden, but I had my reasons.  I was letting things cool down before I made the attempt.  Don't believe me?  It was a bad decision on my part, yes, but its the truth.  

Just about the time I was going to make up for that mistake, is when Ruby and the Brothers saved me after my match with Roxanne.  Because of my injuries, there was nothing I could do, but there is now, and you better believe I'm not going to let anyone keep my daughter from me.  And I sure as hell am not going to let the likes of Odette Ryder keep getting near her!

Odette...Odette...Odette...So the time has finally arrived where we meet again, and not a moment too soon, right?  I've been watching you very closely over these past few weeks, and I have to admit, I am pleasantly surprised.  I was expecting you to put up more of a fight in embracing the darkness within you, but you have made it quite easy.  Was that planned, Odette, or are you simply ready to just throw in the towel and admit defeat?  Yes, you hold a single victory over me inside the ring, and to that I say well done, but do not make the mistake of assuming it will happen again.  

Odette, you've made a big mistake since our last encounter.  You can try and deny it all you want, but that little gift you had those two...fan girls...deliver to me was quite a brave move on your part.  Be thankful that I did not take my aggressions out on them, as I should have at the time, but I will be taking them out on you this Sunday.  Did you really think it was a great idea to use my daughter in our war?  Do you believe that Spike would appreciate that little tid bit of information either?  I highly doubt it.

By the way, Odette, how is Melody Grace doing?  Do tell her...Oh, silly me..I forgot.  The poor girl is still not speaking to you is she?  It has been, what over a month since Despayre and Angel heroically "saved" her from my disciples.  There apparently wasn't anything to save, was there?  Did she go running back to you?  Did she wrap her arms around you in a tight embrace, happy to see her best friend once again?  No, she didn't.  She has stayed away from you since then, because she finally sees who you really are.  She has seen beyond that mask you wear every single day, though lately the mask is slowly beginning to disappear.

How does it feel, Odette?  How is life treating you now, sweetie?  Not so great, I know.  Yet you're doing exactly as I expected as you run around acting as though YOU are the victim.  You take and take and take from everyone around you, yet you give nothing in return.  And now when everyone is finally seeing the real you, they are the bad ones?  I finally see the anger being unleashed, Odette, and before you try and place the blame on me, you better think twice.  You did this all on your own, sweetie, and I am just watching back enjoying the show.

I have to make a confession, Odette.  One that might surprise you.  All week, I've been debating doing something that would shock a lot of people, and no doubt it would upset my partner.  Throughout most of the tournament I have been debating this, in fact.  As much as I would love to win this tournament, an even bigger part of me has a different plan for the final round.  I brought it up to Gabriel just last week, and ever since then, I am sorely tempted to just walk away.  Why?  Because when it comes down to it, seeing you and Jordan go up against Gabriel and Roxi is my dream match.  It puts a wicked smile on my face, because I know what it would do to all parties involved.  

Do you understand the pain and the anger that Gabriel is feeling right now, and can you honestly say that he is wrong for feeling that way?  You are acting so friendly and chummy towards your tag team partner...the ultimate womanizer, Jordan Williams, and you are blind to his advances!  And even considering all of that...Gabriel still loves you and would do anything for you!  It amazes me, Odette.  It really does.  All he is asking for is a little reciprocation of his love and devotion to you, but you can't seem to do that can you?  And you think your anger is justified?  For what reason, Odette?  Please...enlighten me with another of your I can do no wrong...I'm the victim here bullshit excuses.  You CAN do wrong Odette, and you are FAR from the victim in any of this.  

I don't need to destroy you any longer, Odette, because you are doing it all yourself.  In the beginning, this wasn't about winning or losing in the ring.  At least, not to me it wasn't.  I had a much bigger plan in mind, and was expecting more of a challenge from you.  I was apparently wrong on that account.  That is why I will not walk away from this match.  I will not cost Thatcher and I the victory, simply to see you and Gabriel on opposing sides at Blaze of Glory II.  You've rendered my need to destroy you unnecessary at this point, because you're destroying your life yourself.  You are letting the darkness within you come to the surface, and quite honestly, it is only a matter of time before you embrace it.  You want to destroy me, Odette?  Come at me with all you've got, because it won't be enough this time.  One victory is all you get, Miss Ryder.  That is a promise.

Thatcher, I know you've been paying attention to all of this, and I am assuming that at this point, you probably won't believe a word I say right now, but hear me out.  I will not back out on my promise to leave my disciples backstage or the duration of this tournament.  I will not do what Giani Di Luca did when he walked out of the match and away from his tag team partner.  As tempting as it is, you have as much on the line as I do.  This may be our biggest challenge in the tournament yet, but it is a challenge we will win regardless.

I know how it feels to want your name in the record books, Thatcher.  I know how it feels, because my name is already there.  You want to prove to everyone what you know you're capable of after being here just a short time?  I can and will help you with that.  The past two weeks that is exactly what I have been doing.  I don't need to prove anything to you, but I feel as though I should prove to you just why I should have been your number one choice and not number four.  

I look forward to seeing what you can do against Jordan Williams this week.  You've had quite the test in this tournament so far if I may be honest.  Rage- former SCW Heavyweight Champion.  Nick Jones- two time former SCW Heavyweight Champion.  Now Jordan Williams- former SCW Tag Team Champion, and a former World Champion in several other promotions.  Sure, you are no veteran yourself, Thatcher, but beating these men is sure to bring you great things.  I assure you that.  It's too bad that you're more focused on going after the spoiled little brat and taking his title.  As always, Thatcher...I will do my part.  You do yours as well.

As for everyone else...This is one half of the future Blast From The Past Mixed Tag Team tournament champions signing off.  This tournament belongs to Misty and Thatcher Rex.

And there is not a damn thing any of you can do about it.

**END FEED**

 After Climax Control

What an eventful day it had been for The Queen of the Damned.  Just hours before Climax Control she had been in Nova Scotia competing in the first round of the NWA J-Cup Tournament.  She and PRA's Morpheus had put on quite a show, and in the end, Misty did exactly what she said she would do.  She defeated Morpheus to advance to the second round.  Fellow SCW Bombshells Vixen and Jessie Salco had also advanced, as did Lucian Frost.  SCW was already dominating the J-Cup Tournament, putting the odds in their favor to keep the J-Cup in SCW territory.

Immediately after defeating Morpheus, Misty and her disciples had to hightail it to the airport and catch their flight back to Las Vegas, where Misty was booked in yet another tournament.  Misty found herself teamed up with Thatcher Rex in their first round match of SCW's Blast From The Past Mixed Tag Team Tournament.  She had barely gotten their in time, just shortly before her match and had to get ready quickly.  Though not before being scolded by Christian Underwood for Ruby's actions against Odette Ryder last week.  

Misty and Thatcher were an unlikely pairing, but ultimately, they proved to be a cohesive team as they defeated Angel Kash and Rage, and advanced to the second round.  Misty locked in The Queen's Punishment, forcing Angel Kash to submit.  Two matches in one day, both ending in victories for Misty.  To say she was in a good mood was an understatement, but things are about to get even better for her shortly as she and her disciples are preparing to leave.  As the group is heading out to the parking lot, just ahead Misty spots a familiar face.  Gabriel is quickly heading to his own car, but he's not in the best of moods.  Misty gets a devilish grin on her face as an idea pops into her head.  Just before  he reaches his car, Misty calls out to him, stopping him in his tracks.

Misty: Gabriel!  Hang on a second!

When Gabriel sees Misty and her disciples, he shakes his head and heads towards his car again.  Misty disciples turn to look at her, wondering what she is doing.  She holds a hand up, telling them to wait just a moment, and she chases after Gabriel.  He pays no attention to her as he unlocks his car, and is about to get inside, but Misty has quickly caught up with him and is standing directly in front of his prized Bugatti Veyron.

Misty: Has anyone ever told you it is rude to ignore someone?

Gabriel looks up, glaring at Misty and the grin on her face.  He takes notice of just how close she is to his car.

Gabriel: You're really one to talk about being rude, don't ya think?  Get the hell away from my car.

Misty: Oooh, someone is a bit crabby this evening.  I can't say I blame you, though.  And relax, I'm not even touching your precious baby.  Honestly, what is it with the obsession a man has for his car?

Misty laughs, but Gabriel doesn't show the same amusement.  He only seems more agitated as he opens his car door.

Gabriel: It doesn't matter if you're touching my car or not.  You're standing in my way, but if you really want me to run ya over, I will.  I'm in a bad enough mood to do it, too.

Misty: While that last statement may be true, I don't think you'd risk hurting this beautiful expensive car by hurting me.  I'm sure it is a tempting thought, but I've seen just how much you love this car, so I don't see it happening.

Gabriel slams the door shut, sighing out of frustration.  Misty folds her arms across her chest, satisfied with herself as Ruby and the Brothers warily watch on behind them.

Gabriel: You really want to test that theory?  What the hell do you want, because I'm in no mood for your shit right now.  

Misty steps from in front of the car, walking over to stand in front of Gabriel.  She can sense the tension coming from the Sin of Greed, but she hides her amusement and uses it to her advantage.

Misty: I know the mood you're in, Gabriel.  That is why I wanted to speak to you.  I saw what happened earlier.  Congratulations on advancing to the next round of the tournament, by the way.  You and Roxi Johnson make quite the team.

Gabriel: I can't exactly say the same thing for you and Thatcher.  Then again, I'd feel just as sorry for anyone else you would have been teamed with.

Misty: Really?  Would you feel the same way had I been teamed with Jordan Williams instead of Odette?

Misty clearly strikes a nerve in Gabriel, as he narrows his eyes at her, but he doesn't say a word.  Misty can see him clench his hand into a fist at his side.

Misty: That is what I thought.  I am not here trying to make you angrier than you already are, Gabriel--

Gabriel: Well you're doing a piss poor job of preventing that, and you still haven't said why you're here.

Misty: You might not believe me when I say this, but I was concerned when I saw what Odette did to you earlier.  After all, you went to check on her as fast as you could after your match was over and what does she do?  She orders you away.  Heartless comes to mind...

Gabriel shakes his head and lets out a sarcastic laugh.

Gabriel: Do you really expect me to believe that?  If you hadn't pulled that shit last month and kidnapped Melody--

Misty: Really, Gabriel?  You are going to place the blame on me for this?  I am not forcing Odette to do anything, am I?  I am not inside her head telling her how to act.  She is doing all of this on her own.  And for your information, Melody Grace was not harmed while I had her, nor do I consider my actions as kidnapping as everyone seems to call it.  

Gabriel: Really?  Because taking a person against their will isn't considered kidnapping?  You really are stupid.

Misty laughs and shakes her head.  From behind her, Damien clears his throat getting her attention.  She turns around to acknowledge him, but she holds up her hand saying she will still be a moment.  Gabriel glances towards them as well, but quickly looks away, not intimidated.  Misty turns her attention back to Gabriel.

Misty: I had to get Melody alone, but that was almost impossible as she spent all of her time around Odette.  Everyone might be on Odette's side right now, but I think they're all starting to see who she really is.  You're starting to see it too, right?  Odette isn't as perfect as she's making herself out to be.  Melody knows it.  It's why she has yet to speak to Odette since she was...rescued.

Gabriel: Are you done?  From the looks of you, your goons are getting impatient over there.

Misty: They will be fine, but I'm not sure the same can be said for you.  You are avoiding my questions.  Why is that, Gabriel?  

Gabriel doesn't respond right away.  He remains silent for a long while, contemplating the answer to that question...processing everything in his mind.  Misty stands there, waiting patiently, but she doesn't say a word.  Gabriel finally breaks the silence.

Gabriel: I know what you're trying to do, and it's not going to work.  Why don't you stay the hell out of my business?

Misty: I'm not trying to do anything.  I know women like Odette.  I see right through them, and do you want to know why?

Gabriel rolls his eyes and then gives Misty a look that says "enlighten me."  Misty takes a step forward, closing the distance between the two.

Misty: I know women like Odette, because at one time, I was exactly like her.  I was living the life everyone else expected me to live, and being someone I wasn't.  The only difference is, I was with someone who isn't quite as intelligent and gifted at reading people as you are, so I had to end it myself, because I grew tired of living a lie.  Odette won't.  She doesn't want to tarnish her good reputation, does she?  You want some advice, Gabriel?

Gabriel: Not really.

Misty smiles and laughs.  She leans in close as if she has to whisper.

Misty: Get rid of her before it's too late.  I know you are the Sin of Greed and all, but sometimes, we all can't get what we want.  And Odette Ryder will never be everything you want.

Misty pats Gabriel on the shoulder, and he looks down to his shoulder.  He shrugs it off, almost getting the chills, and Misty turns to walk away leaving him standing there thinking things over.  Before she returns to her disciples, she turns around and has one last thing to say to Gabriel.

Misty: Oh and by the way, Gabriel.  I have to say, if by some chance Thatcher and I do not advance in this tournament, I would simply love to see you and Roxi Johnson face Odette and Jordan in the final round.  It'll make things interesting, don't you think?

Misty then turns around, heading back to her disciples with a satisfied smirk on her face.  Gabriel takes a deep breath and gets in his car, roaring the engine to life not long after.  He speeds out of the parking lot as Misty joins her disciples once again, and she can't help but be proud of herself.  Ruby looks at her curiously.

Ruby: What was that all about, my Queen?  

Misty shrugs, that proud grin never leaving her face.

Misty: Oh that...That was just something Odette said couldn't be done, and it was far too easy.  Darkness always prevails, my dear.  Darkness always prevails.

Misty begins laughing a slow maniacal laugh as she has her arms folded across her chest, and her eyes show signs of pure evil and hate.  Her disciples grin wickedly as well, and they all head towards their van just across the lot as the scene fades out.

********************

Misty is fast asleep in her bed, as the sun begins to make its rise in the sky.  The light starts to peek its way in through the curtains covering her window.  All is relatively quiet in her home, except for...Wait.  This can't be right.  The soft cooing of a baby is heard, causing Misty's eyes to bolt open, having been awoken from her deep sleep.  She can't tell if she is hearing things right or not, so she slowly sits up in the bed, looking around her.  Aside from the faint sunlight shining in through the window, the room is mostly dark.  Misty listens to the cooing noises continue, almost afraid to even move or speak.

Misty: Ruby?  Ruby are you in here?  What is that noise?  

Ruby doesn't answer her, further confusing Misty.  The baby continues to coo, as well as make other noises, but surprisingly, it doesn't cry.  Misty sits in the bed for several minutes, almost in a state of terrified shock, before she finally reaches to the bedside table and turns on the light.  She nearly jumps back when she spots the basonet next to the bed, and the baby wrapped in a blue blanket laying inside it, kicking his little feet and looking around.  Tears form in her eyes as she looks at the little baby boy, and she slowly crawls to the edge of the bed to get a better look.  She lifts her head slowly, keeping her eyes focused on the baby.  It is what happens next that changes her whole world.  The baby moves his head and looks at her, and it sends her over the edge.  Misty nearly trips out of the bed as she stands over the basonet, gently lowering her hand to touch his face.  

Misty: Oooh...My precious baby boy...

She gently pulls him into her arms, never taking her eyes off of him.  As a baby normally does, his attention is all over the place, but when she runs her fingers along his cheek, he looks towards her, she gets a good look at his eyes.  His eyes and his full head of dark hair remind her of two people, and it is all she can think about.

Misty: You look just like your Daddy and your big sister, you know that, my sweet baby boy?  Those eyes...

Misty rocks her son in her arms, placing her index finger in his tiny little hand.  He grasps it just a bit, bringing a warm motherly smile to Misty's face.  She walks around the room, cradling him and whispering to him, feeling complete joy in her heart.  She is so focused on her son that she doesn't even notice the door to her room open.  Ruby steps inside, but she stops right in the doorway and stares at Misty.  She observes her Queen, watching her every move as Misty continues to walk around the room, rocking her arms back and forth, but it is the expression on her face that is more baffling to Ruby.  Ruby has never seen her Queen look this genuinely happy.

Ruby: My Queen?  What are you doing?

Misty turns around, acknowledging that she heard Ruby.  She is smiling from ear to ear as she glances at Ruby, but then turns her attention back to her infant son in her arms.  

Misty: Oh, Ruby...Isn't he beautiful?  He's more perfect than I could have imagined!

Ruby scratches her head as she looks at Misty, and her odd behavior.  She watches on with concern as Misty lowers her head to her arms, and moves it back and forth to the size as if nuzzling something.  

Ruby: Isn't who beautiful, my Queen?  Who are you talking about?

Misty lifts her head and looks at Ruby, now confused herself.  She looks down to her son in her arms, then spins around as if showing him to Ruby.  Her smile never leaves her face, though it fades slightly out of confusion over Ruby's question.

Misty: Ruby, quit acting like you don't see my son in my arms.  Don't act like you can't hear him cooing.  He's so...happy.  So innocent and perfect in every way, and I'm holding him in my arms.  His basonet is right next to my bed!

Ruby slowly takes a step further.  She looks next to Misty's bed, but shakes her head, seeing nothing.  There is no basonet there, and Misty is not holding her baby boy in her arms.  Ruby realizes she must be sleepwalking, or perhaps hallucinating.  Either way, her concern grows as she slowly approaches her.

Ruby: My Queen, look at me.  Look at me.

Misty: He looks just like Eden when she was born, and he has Spike's eyes.  Oh, wait until Spike sees him!  

Ruby's eyes widen as she hears the pure excitement in Misty's voice as she mentions Spike's name.  She cautiously walks towards her, contemplating her next move, but she honestly doesn't know what to do.  One wrong move could send Misty into an emotional breakdown.

Ruby: My Queen...

Misty completely tunes Ruby out as she focuses on what is apparently a hallucination.  Each time Ruby gets close to her, Misty turns away and walks in a different direction, whispering to her "son".

Misty: My son...My beautiful son.  Oh my...I haven't named you yet!  Ruby, how could I forget to name my own son?  Well, let's think about this carefully...

Misty begins contemplating names in her head, trying to pick out the perfect one.  She says some aloud, but Ruby can't understand what she says as she is almost mumbling.

Misty:  We're just going to have to talk to Daddy and have him help, aren't we sweetie?  Yes, I think we should go find him.

Ruby: My Queen, you need to lay down.  You are not well...

Ruby tries to place a gentle hand on Misty's shoulder, but Misty pulls away and takes a step back.  She pulls her arms in closer to her chest, as if protecting her son from Ruby.

Misty: What are you talking about, Ruby?  I'm perfect.  I've never felt better.  I have my son in my arms.  Spike needs to see him.  Eden...Oh Eden is going to be so excited about being a big sister!  And Timmy will--

Ruby: My Queen, listen to me, please.  You are daydreaming.  You are not holding your baby boy in your arms.  He is not there.  He died, my Queen.  You know this.  Please, listen to me.  Please.

Misty stares at Ruby, shaking her head, still holding her arms close to her chest.  In her mind, she can see her son in her arms...she can feel his heart beating and the rise and fall of his chest as he breathes.  She can hear him make the adorable little noises that babies make.

Misty: No...Get...Get away from me!  You're lying!  He's right here in my arms!  I can feel him!  I can see him!  He's not dead!

Just then Misty looks past Ruby and to her bedroom door.  She has a panicked smile on her face as she looks towards the person who has walked in her room...or so she thinks.  Once again, in her mind, she sees her ex-fiancee and the father to her children standing there, staring at her and their son.

Misty: Spike!  Spike, tell Ruby the truth!  You see him don't you?  You can see our son in my arms, can't you?  He's alive, Spike.  He's alive!

Ruby turns around, looking towards the doorway, but there is no one there.  She looks at Misty, now terrified for her Queen's mental well being.

Misty: Spike, come meet our son.  He looks just like you...and Eden.  Wait, is Eden with you?

"Spike" doesn't utter a single word.  He tilts his head to the side as he focuses on Misty, then looks towards their son.  Misty begins walking towards him, and he does the same, until they are standing just inches apart.  "Spike" looks down at their son, and Misty holds him out to him.  "Spike" takes their son in his arms, keeping his attention focused on the raven haired little boy in his arms.  "Spike" cracks a little smile in the corner of his mouth, before he lifts his eyes and his gaze falls on Misty, and it turns purely sadistic.  Misty looks at him, a proud smile once again on her face as she "sees" Spike holding their son for the first time.  Ruby stands next to Misty, watching on, growing more and more worried as Misty's frame of mind continues to worsen.

Ruby: My Queen...

Misty doesn't acknowledge Ruby again, as she stares at the hallucination in front of her.  Her smile quickly starts to fade as "Spike" begins to back away, still holding their "son" in his arms.  Misty shakes her head, letting out an awkward laugh.

Misty: Spike...Spike what are you doing?  

He continues to back away, pulling their son closer towards him as he grins at Misty sadistically.  Misty steps forward, reaching out to him, trying to grab him, but "Spike" doesn't let her.  Misty panics further, not understanding what is happening.

Misty: Spike, give him to me.  Give me back our son.

Ruby: My Queen, there is no one there!  You're hallucinating...

Misty: He's taking my son, Ruby...Damien!  Dante!  Sebastian!  Zane!  Stop him!  He's taking my son!!!

"Spike" laughs as he turns and walks out of the room, and Misty tries to chase after him.  Ruby wraps her arms around Misty's waist, holding her back as best as she can, though Misty is completely hysterical at this point.  She is frantically trying to break free from Ruby's grasp when the brothers come running into the room.

Misty: Stop him!  Please stop him!  He took my son!!  STOP HIM!!!!

The brothers all look to Ruby, confused and worried over what is going on.  The tears are pouring down Misty's cheeks, as she and Ruby collapse to the floor, and her fighting subsides.  Ruby looks at Damien, the concern evident in both their faces.

Ruby: Damien, call Dr. Lord.  Now!  Zane, please help me with her.

Misty is sobbing uncontrollably as she is just staring at the door. Damien rushes out the door to go call Dr. Lord while Zane approaches Misty and Ruby, kneeling to the floor in front of them.  Ruby runs her hand through Misty's hair, attempting to comfort her and calm her down as best as she can.

Ruby: Shhh, my Queen.  Everything is alright.  It was only your imagination.  Spike was never here.  Please calm down.

Misty: Yes...he...was!  I...saw him...right over...there!

Misty can barely get a full sentence out as she starts hyperventilating.  Dante and Sebastian look at each other, then to Ruby and Zane.  Nothing any of them do seems to be helping her, and when all is said and done, Misty passes out in Ruby's arms.  Zane takes her into his arms, prepared to carry her back to her bed, when Damien appears back in the room holding his cell phone in his hand.  He sees Zane getting ready to lay Misty back in the bed, and he stops him.

Damien: No, Zane.  Dr. Lord wants us to bring her to his clinic immediately.  Wait...is she alright?

Damien has noticed that Misty isn't conscious, and his concern grows.  Sebastian approaches him.

Sebastian: She passed out just a few moments ago, Damien.  Why does Dr. Lord want to see her at the clinic?

Zane keeps a hold of Misty in his arms as Damien turns to speak to Sebastian.

Damien: He may wish to have her hospitalized.  I don't agree with that decision, but we shall see.  Dante, go pull the van around front.  We will meet you out there.

Dante: Of course, Damien.

Dante then turns and walks out of the room without another word.  Zane carries Misty towards Damien and Sebastian with Ruby following next to him closely, glancing over to Misty occasionally.  She may have been upset with her just last week, but her Queen was in trouble and needed her support.  They all walk down to the van where Dante is waiting for them, and after carefully loading her inside, Dante drives off heading towards the clinic.

********************

The Next Day

The scene opens up inside Dr. Lord's clinic.  Ruby and the Brothers all look more than exhausted as they are seated outside the exam room where Dr. Lord is looking after Misty.  Normally Ruby would be inside as well, overseeing her care and assisting Dr. Lord, but he has told them it would be best if all of them stayed outside.  As of yet, Misty has yet to fully regain consciousness, as she only briefly awoke several times since yesterday.  Dr. Lord has been closely monitoring her, waiting to make a decision on whether or not she needs to be hospitalized until she is fully conscious and able to speak to him.  Ruby and the Brothers want to take her back home, but he suggests against it, and actually suggested that they return home without her, but they refused and have decided to wait as long as they can.

Dr. Lord is just about to head into a different room to get something, when Misty finally starts to wake up, and not for just a brief moment.  She opens her eyes and looks around her, though the confusion over where she is is evident in the look in her eyes.  She slowly sits up in the bed, looking around the room, and is relieved, yet still confused, when she sees Dr. Lord.

Misty: Dr. Lord?  Where the hell am I?

Dr. Lord: You are at my clinic, Misty.  How are you feeling?

Misty thinks for a moment as she swings herself around, letting her legs hang over the side of the bed.  She runs her hand through her hair, and shrugs.

Misty: Honestly?  I feel...great.  I feel very refreshed, and not tired at all.  Wait...what am I doing here?  Where are Ruby and the brothers?

Dr. Lord taps his chin as he approaches Misty.  She does seem to have more energy.

Dr. Lord: They are waiting just outside.  They are all fine I assure you.  What is the last thing you remember, Misty?

Misty: Why?  Dr. Lord, you're confusing the hell out of me.  Would you just tell me what is going on?

Dr. Lord: Just answer the question, please. I will explain everything once you do.  I just need to know what you remember.

Misty shakes her head, but then thinks. She appears slightly more confused.

Misty: I was in Nova Scotia on Sunday.  I won my first round match in the J-Cup tournament, and then the others and I flew back here for Climax Control.  Thatcher and I advanced in the Blast From the Past tournament.  Afterwards, I spoke to Gabriel out in the parking lot and came home and fell asleep in my bed.  Next thing I know, I'm waking up here in your clinic.  

Dr. Lord: Really?  Hmmm...

Misty stands up, standing directly in front of Dr. Lord.  She studies the expression on his face, suddenly getting worried herself.

Misty: Dr. Lord...Would you please say something?!  Anything...

Dr. Lord: I'm not exactly sure what happened, but considering you don't remember anything, I can only assume it was an extreme case of sleep walking.  Let me go get Ruby, and she can explain what happened, as she witnessed the whole thing.

Misty is about to argue, but Dr. Lord walks over to the door.  He opens it and calls for Ruby.  Ruby doesn't hesitate and she is in the room within seconds and Dr. Lord closes the door behind them. Ruby is relieved to see Misty awake and looking better.

Ruby: You are awake!  It is such a relief, my Queen.  How are you feeling?

Misty lets out an awkward laugh as she again runs her hand through her hair.

Misty: As I told Dr. Lord, I feel great.  I feel very rested and relaxed, though I am very confused as to what I am doing here.  Dr. Lord mentioned something about sleepwalking?

Ruby turns to look at Dr. Lord, surprised to hear this.

Ruby: Sleepwalking?  Are you sure that is what it was?  That was a very extreme episode of sleepwalking if that is the case.

Misty: Ruby, what the hell happened?  

Ruby: You don't remember?

Ruby turns and looks Misty locks her eyes on Misty's.  Misty shows no sign that she remembers a thing, and Ruby turns to Dr. Lord, asking for his permission to reveal what happened.  Dr. Lord nods once, giving her the go ahead and she reluctantly turns back to Misty who is waiting patiently for answers.

Ruby: I, uh...I'm not quite sure how to explain what happened yesterday morning.

Misty: Yesterday morning?  I've been out for that long?

Ruby: For the most part, yes.  I went into your room yesterday morning to see what you wanted for breakfast when I found you walking around the room.  You looked as though you were holding something in your arms, but there was nothing there.  My Queen, you thought you were holding your son in your arms, but then it progressed..

Ruby hesitates in finishing her sentence looking down to the floor, and Misty approaches her.  She places a finger on Ruby's chin, lifting her face so she is looking directly at her.

Misty: Go on, Ruby.  You can tell me what happened.

Ruby: You thought that parasite of an ex-fiancee of yours was there as well.  You saw him taking your son, and you were hysterical.  I tried--we all tried to snap you out of it, but nothing worked.  You eventually passed out and Dr. Lord wanted you brought here.

Misty seems shocked to hear what happened, and she tries to remember any or all of it, but she doesn't.

Misty: I thought I saw Spike...taking our son?  Well isn't that odd.

Ruby: Very odd, my Queen.  You seemed very happy to see him, also.  You were going to ask him for help in naming the baby...

Misty lets out a loud laugh.  Ruby and Dr. Lord aren't quite sure what is so amusing.

Misty: Now that is hilarious, if I'm being honest.  You should have known right there that I was having a nightmare.  As if I'd ever be happy to see Spike.  Working with him is bad enough--

Dr. Lord: Misty, listen to me for a second.  This incident yesterday morning is exactly why you need to take a break.  You were so exhausted, it all ended up being too much you could handle and look at what happened?  You slept for almost twenty-four hours.

Misty: I'm not going to tell you again, Dr. Lord.  I am not taking time off.  

Dr. Lord: Do you want to wind up in the hospital, Misty?

Misty goes silent as she stares at Dr. Lord.

Dr. Lord: Well, do you?

Misty: Of course not!  But, that's not going to happen!

Dr. Lord: Not if you don't take a break, because you're just adding more and more stress to yourself and your body can't handle it.  You need sleep, Misty.  This is just the first of many ways your body will tell you to relax.  You have to listen to me.  Listen to Ruby and the brothers as well.  Granted, the brothers are not as vocal about their concerns, but trust me when I say they are concerned.

Misty stares at Dr. Lord for a moment, not sure of how to respond.  She looks at Ruby a few minutes later, studying the expression on her face and it is then that she can see it. She sees the worry and the exhaustion in Ruby's eyes.  She takes in a deep breath and steps forward.

Misty: Okay, look.  I'm sorry for causing you all to worry so much, but you have to understand, everything I am doing, I'm doing for a reason.  Wrestling is my life.  SCW needs me.  The NWA needs me.  If I'm not there, do you know what will happen?  Do you understand what happened when I was gone for those three months last year?

Ruby: We all understand the important role you play within Sin City Wrestling and the Alliance, my Queen.  We are not trying to get you to stop forever, but you need to slow down.  This war with Odette and the constant battle of words with people on Twitter just seem pointless in our eyes.  It's almost as if you're trying to prove something to all of them.

Misty: What if I am?

Ruby takes a step forward, standing directly in front of Misty.  She takes a hold of Misty's shoulders, keeping her gaze on her queen.

Ruby: Why do you feel that you need to?

Misty: I don't feel that I need to, Ruby.  It just...it keeps me relevant!  People may not like how I do things or the decisions I make, but I want to prove to everyone that no matter what they all say or do, I'm not going to change for any of them.  I'm going to do whatever the hell I want...whatever the hell I need to do to show that I'm still in this game.  I'm not the Bombshell Champion?  A championship belt doesn't mean shit in my eyes.  In my heart and soul...yes I do have a soul...I will ALWAYS be the champion.  If I were to face Vixen today, I'd beat her and get my title back and everyone knows it, but I made the decision to target Odette first.

Ruby shakes her head and lowers her hands from Misty's shoulders.  

Ruby: I understand that, but the both of you are now distracted with this Mixed Tag Team tournament, don't you think you should focus on that for now?  One thing at a time, my Queen.  If you try and focus on too much at once, surely you're bound to make a mistake sooner or later.  

Misty: Did I make any mistakes on Sunday, Ruby?  I won both of my matches without a problem.  You and the brothers all saw.  Do you realize that my next two matches, I have the opportunity to send more messages to Odette?  Thatcher and I are facing Nick Jones and Vixen this week, and my next round match in the J-Cup tournament is against Jessie Salco.  Two out of three NXT girls, both who have yet to beat me at all!  This is all just too easy.

Ruby: Once again, you are not listening to me, my Queen.  All I am trying to get you to see is that you need to focus on only one problem at a time, as it comes.  Your match with Thatcher against Nick and Vixen is this week, so just worry about that first.  You're overwhelming your mind with so much information at once.  Mr. Underwood instated a no-contact clause for you and Odette for the foreseeable future, until the next time you face each other, so isn't this war with Miss Ryder pointless right now?  You have apparently already had a huge effect on her, as her life is crashing to the ground around her.  Why keep pushing it further?  

Off to the side, Dr. Lord remains silent as he lets Ruby try and get through to Misty.  Misty glances at him, but he shakes his head, signaling he has nothing to say at the moment, and she turns her attention back to Ruby.

Misty: My work with Odette is no where near done, Ruby, but I'll make you a deal.  I will take a step back from this war with Odette...for now.  I will focus on this mixed tag team match first, and do what I need to do to ensure that Thatcher and I win the whole thing.  Besides, I'm sure my little chat with Gabriel on Sunday will prove to have been quite effective.  

Ruby: Thank you, my Queen.

Misty: I am sorry for worrying you and the brothers, Ruby.  I will do my best to slow down and not add more to my plate.

In an uncharacteristic display of affection, Misty takes Ruby in her arms and hugs her.  Ruby seems surprised, but she hugs her queen back, and the beginnings of a smile form at the corner of her mouth.  Misty steps back and looks toward Dr. Lord.

Misty: Am I free to go home now?

Dr. Lord thinks for a moment, before he pulls out his prescription pad, writing her out a prescription and hands it to her.

Dr. Lord: On one condition.  I'm prescribing you something to help you sleep at night.  You take them and start getting some rest, because you really need it.

Misty takes the prescription and nods to him with a smile.

Misty: Absolutely, Dr. Lord.  Thank you again for your care.  If I need anything I will be sure to give you a call.  Come on, Ruby.  Let's go.

Misty shakes Dr. Lord's hand, then heads toward the door with Ruby following behind her.  The two walk out of the room and leave the clinic soon after, as Dr. Lord stands there, shaking his head, still very concerned for his patient.

Dr. Lord: I hope for her sake that she is telling the truth.  Out of all of my patients, she is the most stubborn.  

Dr. Lord sighs and then walks out of the room as the scene fades out.

********************

From The Mind of Your Queen
Journal Entry #2

Hello everyone and welcome to my mind...again!  Did you enjoy last week's glimpse into what goes on inside the mind of yours truly?  Yes?  No?  Maybe even a little bit?  Regardless of how you answer, I could really care less.  You see, some people think I should do my promotional work for my matches a certain way....the way he does his own, because mine are just sooo incredibly boring.  At least to him, they are.  Well, I refuse to change the way I do things simply because one person doesn't like it or finds it boring.  In fact, if none of you liked the way I did things, I still wouldn't change because as I said before, I do things MY way.  After all, its worked out just fine so far.  So why change?

Since I returned in October, I've only lost one match...just one.  Unfortunately it was to Miss Ryder, but I have unfinished business with her.  Business that once this Blast From the Past tournament is done, will pick up right where we left off.  I won't focus on Miss Ryder too much at the moment, because I believe one of the brothers or Ruby will end up reading this and I do not wish to go back on my promise to them, and my promise to myself.  

You see, it has come to my attention recently that I am having a difficult time in sorting out my priorities as of late.  I have so much going on, that I am focusing on the wrong things at the wrong time.  If I don't figure things out, and soon, my whole word could come crashing down around me, and I don't want that.  I can't prove all of the ignorant fools who call me a washed up has been right by letting one mistake ruin everything and send me into a downward spiral.  So, I have made a decision.  A decision that my partner, Thatcher Rex, better pay close attention to.  A decision that our opponents this week better pay attention to.

I will admit, when  I first heard about this tournament, I was not looking forward to it.  After seeing all of the men who signed up for it, I saw who each of my potential partners could have been, and none of them sat well with me.  Thatcher Rex in particular, and it was due to his obvious dislike for me as he voiced on Twitter.  I watched his promo last week, after submitting my own, and I have to admit I got quite a chuckle out of everything he had to say.

Thatcher, I am well aware of the fact that you don't like me and that you don't trust me.  I know you were less than pleased with my decision to tag myself into the match on Sunday when we faced Rage and Angel Kash, but allow me to explain.  You see, I've never been big on the whole tag team scene, and I'm sure many will agree.  I've never been very trusting of anyone else, because when it comes down to it, the only person I can trust, is myself.  I tagged myself in for one reason and one reason only.  Because I was not finished with Angel Kash.  I wanted to end her, and had I not tagged myself in, I do not believe you would have tagged me in again, or that you would have been given the chance.  Don't get me wrong, I simply can not stand Rage, but he is a fierce competitor, and he wouldn't have tagged Angel in any more than you would have.

I like to fight, Thatcher, and I am sure you feel the same.  I know you don't agree with how I do things, but in my eyes, a win is a win no matter how the job gets done.  I didn't cheat to win that match did I?  Last I recall, I didn't.  Be happy with the victory and focus on our next opponents, because when it comes to the one YOU will be facing, you will need all the luck you can get.  I have already proved that I can beat Vixen, but are you up to the challenge of Nick Jones?  You see, if you aren't already aware, Nick Jones and I are a lot alike.  And it is not just because of he walks around with the entourage and I have my disciples.  That is a mere coincidence.

You see, I was the first two-time Bombshell Champion, and Nick Jones was the first two-time Heavyweight Champion.  He might have bragging rights because of the length of this first title run, but the length of time in a title reign doesn't mean much in my eyes.  Oh, and wouldn't you know that the first time both of us lost our titles, we lost them to a member of the Sins?  Granted, Kittie was not a member of the Sins yet when she defeated me, but that is besides the point.  

Nick Jones will be no easy task.  You may have faced the man who defeated him for the title he once held, last week, but we all know that Rage's win over Nick was pure luck.  Everyone knows that his time as the Heavyweight Champion was a joke, and that Nick is the real dominant force on the men's division.  Would you like to carry the SCW Heavyweight Championship one day, Thatcher?  You'd be a fool to say no, but if you want to prove that you are worthy of that belt, the way to do it is by making a statement against Nick Jones.  I hope you are up for the challenge, Mr. Rex.  Try not to focus on your distrust in me and look at the bigger picture, because Nick Jones is not one you should take lightly at all.  Just a friendly warning.

And do not worry about me being able to handle Vixen, either.  Ahh, Vixen...our current Bombshell Champion.  Congratulations again, Vixen.  You finally achieved something you have been working towards since you first stepped foot here in SCW.  You finally won the Bombshell Championship when you defeated...**giggles**...Amanda Cortez.  Not much of a challenge, though was it?  The last time you had a shot at the Bombshell Championship who did you face?  Ahh, yes...You faced me.  And you failed.  I applaud your effort, though.  

I must admit, I have seen a vast improvement in you, Vixen, though some of your decisions lately have been...questionable.  Shacking up with my ex, and the father of my children, for one thing was hardly a wise decision.  I have a question, Vix...When your lips meet his in a passionate kiss, how does it feel knowing that those same lips met mine numerous times for six long years? How does it feel knowing that...Nevermind.  I won't go there, but if you think about it hard enough, I'm sure you can guess as to where my mind was wandering just then.  

Does it bother you Vix, that everything you currently have, I had first?  The Bombshell Championship...Spike Staggs...NXT.  It was all mine first.  That right there proves just who the better woman between us really is.  Deny it all you want, but it is the truth.  Oh and how appropriate is it that you are competing in the J-Cup tournament this year, when I was the one who won it last year.  And your next opponent is the man I defeated to get my spot in the tournament last year.  So many coincidences, right?  Wrong!

Vixen, you will never, and I mean NEVER achieve what I have achieved.  You can try all you want...That is what you are doing, isn't it?  You're trying to prove your the best...that you're better than me, when we all know it is far from the truth.  It doesn't matter how many times we face each other, Vixen.  I will ALWAYS beat you, because I will ALWAYS be better than you.  Spike will deny it.  The fans will deny it, but my actions will always speak the truth.  Against me, Vixen...You are NOTHING.  

I will admit, you lucked out by drawing Nick Jones as your partner.  You stand a chance...a miniscule one, though, at advancing to the finals, but if I have anything to say about it, your run in this tournament ends this Sunday against me and Thatcher.  Sorry to disappoint you, Vixen.  Though if I were you, I wouldn't be too disappointed, though.  I'm sure you would much rather focus on defending that title of yours than worrying about some silly little tournament, right?  I certainly hope the answer is yes.  

My name is already cemented in the SCW record books, but winning this tournament would add it to one more place.  It would further prove why I am the BEST Bombshell to ever step foot in SCW, and while there will be no one else like me!  You don't trust me, Thatcher?  I will leave you with this statement...I will stop at nothing, and I mean NOTHING to have my name further cemented in SCW History.  If you name is next to it, so be it.  It will still be there.  Being a part of a tag team has never been my forte, but I will do anything and everything in my power to get us the win, and that is a promise.  But here is a final promise...I will NOT cheat to win.  Don't believe me?  Just wait and see.

Let that be a warning to Nick Jones and Vixen, too.  Oh, and Nicky boy...if your entourage decides to try and get involved, I'm fairly confident that my disciples are far more powerful than your goons.  Keep that in mind.

Nick Jones and Vixen...Your souls are damned and they belong to me!

 **END FEED**

 Sunday January 13th- Hours After SCW's New Year Rising

Misty and her disciples are all resting at their home in Las Vegas.  Just a few hours ago, they all had a rough night to say the least.  Misty and Odette Ryder fought one hell of a battle as they both attempted to end the other.  Both women had been left battered, bloodied and exhausted.  While some considered Odette Ryder the "underdog" going into the match, she did what the four women who faced Misty before her hadn't done since Misty's return back in October.  Odette Ryder had defeated Misty, taking the lead in the war between good and evil.

After the match, Misty's loyal female disciple Ruby had asked her queen for permission to seek vengeance on Odette Ryder.  Ruby had been itching for the chance to get her hands on Odette Ryder, and Misty had finally given her the green light.  The plan backfired, and as Vixen and Jessie Salco had rushed down to the ring and held Misty back, Odette powerbombed Ruby to the mat, sending a clear message to her foe.  

While all of that was taking place in the ring, out in the parking lot, the male disciples of the group were being taken out one-by-one as they guarded their "prisoner", Melody Grace.  After the last, and strongest, disciple was taken out, the camera revealed to all in attendance just who the brave hero was.  Despayre's plush companion, Angel, was perched triumphantly atop the unconscious Damien as the other three men lay scattered on the ground.  Despayre had shown up just seconds later to find that his best friend had done the job he had hoped to do.  Melody had stepped out of the van to find both Despayre and Angel, and the trio had hightailed it out of there as fast as they could, and after Misty and Odette's match, she and Ruby had gone out to the parking lot to check on her men.  

Sebastian had done them all a favor and had called their personal doctor, Dr. Lord, and told him to meet them all at their home, and that is where we are right now.  Damien, Dante, Sebastian and Zane have all returned to their own rooms to rest for the night, under Dr. Lord's orders, and he is now checking on Misty and Ruby in Misty's room.  He is in the process of assessing the cut on Misty's head.

Dr. Lord: You made a wise decision in having the medics patch this cut up when you did, Misty.  If you had lost anymore blood you could have passed out.  Do you enjoy getting hurt this way?

Misty laughs and shrugs of Dr. Lord's concerns.  Ruby is seated in the chair next to the bed, keeping an eye on her queen as best as she can, though she appears to be quite exhausted herself.

Misty: It is a hazard of the job, Dr. Lord.  Besides, Miss Ryder didn't even do a fraction of the damage Roxanne did last summer.  You know that.

Dr. Lord nods as he remembers examining Misty that night after her match with Roxanne.  She was lucky to even be alive following that match.

Dr. Lord: Yes, unfortunately I do know that, but is it all worth it?  Is putting your body through all this hell really worth it?  You know what it cost you last summer, so I am just trying to understand your decision to continue.

The look on Misty's face suddenly turns dark, and her eyes appear to tear up a bit.  Dr. Lord puts a fresh bandage over the cut on her forehead and stands in front of her, looking in her eyes.

Misty: I am fully aware of what I lost in that match, Dr. Lord.  Ruby told me a few weeks later.  Had I known I was pregnant at the time, I wouldn't have gone through with it.  I wouldn't have put my baby's life on the line.  If I had known, I'd be holding my son in my arms right now, but I'm not.

Dr. Lord: That doesn't answer my question.

Misty folds her arms across her chest and glances towards Ruby.  Ruby eyes are now closed as she drifts off to sleep.

Misty: It doesn't matter, Dr. Lord.  The fact is that my baby died, and I could have prevented it.  I suppose it was never meant to be anyway, because my ex-fiancee was the father and we all know that situation.  He would have done everything in his power to take my son from me, but I guess it's only fitting that he was taken from me this way.  I'm not going to quit doing what I am meant to do just because I lost my child.  I've had time to grieve and move on.  SCW and the NWA need me.

Dr. Lord: I'm sorry, but I'm just not convinced.  You lost a child, Misty.  You lost that child as a direct result of doing what you say your meant to do, and I don't believe you have moved on from it like you say you have.  I think you need to take some time off and receive some grief counseling--

Misty holds her hand up and shakes her head, silencing Dr. Lord before he can finish.

Misty: No.  Absolutely not.  I am fine, Dr. Lord.  Really, I am.  I can't take time off.  Not now.  My business with Odette Ryder isn't finished, and I've entered myself in the J-Cup tournament in the NWA.  I have too much going on right now, and I refuse to take time off and listen to what people would no doubt he saying about me then.  

Dr. Lord: I think you should reconsider. I saw the look in your eyes when I brought up this miscarriage.  Every time you step into that ring I know it has to be a constant reminder to you.  You need to heal, Misty.

Misty quickly stands up from the bed and walks over to where her black robe is hanging.  She reaches into the pocket, pulling out the ultrasound picture she had shown to Spike earlier.  She stares at the picture as the look on her face turns blank and almost emotionless.

Misty: I have healed, Dr. Lord.  I've never felt better, and I have you, the brothers and Ruby to thank for that.  Because of the care you guys gave me last summer, I was able to make my return to SCW, and now I'll be making my return to the NWA.  My dominance will continue, and not only will my reign over SCW continue, but starting with the J-Cup Tournament, the NWA as well.  

Dr. Lord: You've healed physically, yes.  But your mind hasn't healed yet.  You're in denial, and you're using every thing you can possibly use to distract your mind from the wounds you suffered last year.  This war with Odette Ryder and that J-Cup tournament you speak of are no doubt the biggest distractions you have given yourself.  

Dr. Lord walks up directly behind Misty, looking over her shoulder.  Misty is still staring at the ultrasound picture, and he glances to it also.  He places a hand on her shoulder, and she turns around to face him.  

Dr. Lord: If you have completely moved on from this loss like you say you have, you wouldn't keep that picture.  You wouldn't keep taking it out from your hiding places and getting that lost look in your eyes every time you look at it.  Please take my advice and take some time off, Misty.

Misty looks at Dr. Lord, and the look in her eyes turns almost...human.  She looks down at the picture again, and just as it appears as though she is about to break, Ruby's voice comes from the other end of the room, and she is NOT happy.

Ruby: What on earth are you doing, Dr. Lord?!  Are you trying to upset her?!

Dr. Lord turns and looks at Ruby, who has now gotten to her feet and is heading towards them.  Misty closes her eyes and shakes her head as if snapping back to reality.

Dr. Lord: Of course not, Ruby.  I am just talking to her and trying to get through to her.  You said yourself she has not been sleeping well the past few months.  She needs--

Misty: QUIT TELLING ME WHAT I DO OR DO NOT NEED DR. LORD!

Dr. Lord and Ruby are taken aback by Misty's sudden outburst.  They turn to face her and she is looking right at Dr. Lord.  You can practically see the steam coming from her head.

Ruby: My Queen--

Misty: Silence, Ruby!

Ruby immediately goes quiet and Misty takes a step forward towards Dr. Lord.  She holds the picture at her side, temporarily forgetting she has it in her hand.

Misty: Let me make one thing very clear to you, Dr. Lord.  You are a physician, not a psychiatrist.  You are here only to assess our physical health.  Do you understand me?  I will NOT take time off from my wrestling career, regardless of what your opinion is.  If you continue to assume what it is you THINK I need, then I will have no choice but to find a different physician.  Are we clear?

Dr. Lord looks at Ruby and then to Misty.  He cant tell both women are agitated and upset, and he puts his hands up in defeat, taking a step back.

Dr. Lord: Very well then, Misty.  

Ruby: You will NOT address your queen so informally!

Misty: It is quite alright, Ruby.  

Ruby sighs and folds her arms across her chest, glaring at Dr. Lord.  Dr. Lord walks over and grabs his jacket from off the hook on the wall, pulling it over his shoulders.

Dr. Lord: I apologize if I was too pushy, Misty.  As your doctor I am only looking out for your well-being, but it is clear that I upset you.  I will not push the matter further, but just know, if you change your mind, I can refer you to the best psychiatrist I know.

Misty: Thanks but no thanks, Dr. Lord.  

Misty then turns around and walks back over to her bed.  Dr. Lord glances at Ruby one last time.  He nods his head, opens the door and walks out, leaving Ruby to look after Misty.  Misty sits on the edge of her bed, looking down at the picture of her now long gone unborn child and she closes her eyes.  Ruby walks over to her, kneeling on the floor in front of her.  She, too, looks at the picture, and she tries to take the picture from out of Misty's hand, but Misty yanks it away.

Ruby: My Queen, you need your rest.  It has been a long night for all of us.  Please let me put the picture away so you can get some sleep.

Misty: I am FINE, Ruby!

Ruby: Are you?

Misty moves her eyes, locking them with Ruby's.

Ruby: Forgive me for suggesting it, my Queen, but perhaps Dr. Lord is right.  Perhaps you should take time off.

Misty shakes her head.  She leans over towards the end table next to the bed, placing the picture in the drawer.  Ruby moves so she is seated directly next to Misty on the bed, but she takes Misty's hand in hers.

Ruby: You seem to be taking on more than you are capable of handling at the moment, my Queen.  I understand this war with Odette Ryder, but what was the point in entering yourself in the J-Cup tournament as well?  Can you really handle it all?

Misty: You should know better than to question my judgement, Ruby.  I am more than capable of handling all that I am getting myself involved in, I assure you.  I entered myself in the J-Cup tournament because I needed to...because the NWA needed me to.  SCW already knows how dominant I am and have been since I returned, but the NWA does not.  Well, it is time that all changed, and what better way to do so than in the J-Cup tournament?  And wouldn't you know, a few of my fellow SCW Bombshells have also entered.  All of whom I have defeated once before.

Ruby: True, but do you know your opponent in the first round yet?

Misty shakes her head.  She pulls her hand from Ruby's grasp, running it through her own hair.

Misty: Not yet, but the brackets should be announced in the next few days from what I understand.  With any luck I'll get to take out Vixen, Jessie or Karina first, but I doubt that will happen.  It doesn't matter who my first round opponent will be, I'll blaze through that tournament and finish what I started in the NWA last year.  

Misty lets out an unexpected yawn as her exhaustion only worsens.  Ruby's concern also grows as Misty continues to deny herself the rest she needs.

Ruby: Perhaps we can speak about this issue more later this week?  You have the week off in Sin City Wrestling this week, so you can take the opportunity to get some rest.  We all can.

Ruby stands up from the bed, walking over to one of the dressers on the opposite end of the room.  She grabs a pill bottle that is placed on top of it, opening it and removes one of the pills inside.  She walks back over to Misty, handing her the pill as well as the glass of water that was sitting on the end table.

Misty: I'm really not that tired, Ruby.

Ruby: Yes you are, my Queen.  You haven't needed one of these sleeping pills in a while, but I really do think you should take it tonight.  Please take it.

Misty looks at the pill sitting in the palm of her hand, then glances up to Ruby.  She takes a deep breath and tosses the pill into her mouth, washing it down with a big gulp of water.  She hands Ruby the glass, and Ruby places it back on the end table, pleased that Misty didn't put up too much of a fight.

Misty: Do not get used to me giving in so easily, Ruby.  If we hadn't have had the night that we did, I wouldn't have taken that pill.

Misty then pushes herself back into the bed, making herself comfortable.  She pulls the sheet and comforter over her, with Ruby's help of course, then lays down placing her head on her fluffy pillow.  

Ruby: I know, and I understand my Queen.  Do not focus on tonight's events anymore.  Just close your eyes and rest.  I will stay here until you fall asleep.

Misty: You are too kind to me, Ruby.  

Misty yawns again and closes her eyes, waiting for the sleeping pill to take effect.  Ruby walks back over to her chair, and sits down.  Her eyes never turn away from Misty, as she watches and waits for her queen to fall asleep.  Within thirty minutes Misty is fast asleep, thanks to the combination of her exhaustion and the sleeping pill.  Ruby stands up, walks over to Misty's bedside.  She looks down at her sleeping queen with loving eyes, and she bends down, placing a gentle kiss on Misty's lips.  Ruby runs her hand over the bandage on Misty's forehead.

Ruby: Anything for my Queen...my life...

Ruby whispers quietly as she backs away from the bed.  Misty remains asleep as Ruby quietly leaves her room, heading to her own room next door, and the scene fades away.

*************************

One Week Later- Sunday January 20th

Misty: They've lost their minds!  Mark Ward and Christian Underwood have officially lost it!

Damien, Dante, Sebastian, Zane and Ruby all focus on Misty as they walk into their home in Las Vegas.  Misty is clearly not in a good mood as she storms through the fence leading to the warehouse the brothers had fixed up just last year.  Ruby follows closely behind her, while the brothers trail a little further back.

Ruby: I couldn't agree more, my Queen.  Why don't you give one, or both, of them a call tomorrow?  You should have been booked for next Sunday's show.

Misty: Like that would do a damn thing, Ruby?!  This mixed tag team tournament starts next week, which I'm not exactly thrilled about.  It's bad enough that they left me off of next week's show all together, but I still don't know who my partner in this tournament is going to be!  

Sebastian: Perhaps you shouldn't worry about that at the moment, my Queen.  Take this second week off to prepare for your upcoming NWA J-Cup match.  Isn't it scheduled within the next week?

Misty thinks for a moment and then shakes her head.

Misty: Two weeks away, actually.  I have to be in Nova Scotia on February 3rd.

Damien: My Queen, what about Climax Control that week?  Surely you will be booked then?

Misty shakes and lowers her head, realizing Damien has a point.  She wasn't scheduled for Climax Control this week, but due to the "Blast From the Past" Mixed Tag Team tournament, she will more than likely be booked for Climax Control the same day.  

Misty: Son of a bitch.  You're right, Damien.  That just means after I win my match in Nova Scotia, we've got to hightail it to the airport and fly back here for Climax Control.  Well, no one ever said this would be easy!

Dante: Have you started looking into your opponent yet?  You have a male opponent, right?

Misty nods, but she doesn't seem to mind.

Misty: That's right.  All I know about him at the moment is that he's from Puerto Rico Association.  Some guy by the name of Morpheus.  

Damien: My Queen, none of us are particularly thrilled with the idea of you facing men, especially after everything you have been through.  Are you sure you wish to go through with this tournament?

Misty laughs and ignores their concerns with a wave of her hand.

Misty: None of you have any reason to be concerned.  I faced men in the NWA last year when I held the World Cruiserweight Title, and I am more than capable of fighting the best they have.  I am going through with this tournament, and I will cement my status in the NWA one match at a time.  I'll go through every person that stands in my way, man or woman.  No one is going to stop me.

Ruby: If only you were facing that British parasite.  That man makes my blood boil.

Misty smiles again runs her index finger along Ruby's chin, calming her feisty yet loyal female disciple.

Misty: All in good time, dear Ruby.  All in good time.  I must not waste any of my time thinking about any of the other participants in the tournament until the time comes.  Right now, Morpheus is my main concern.  I need to find out as much as I can about him and then worry about the others later.  

Sebastian walks past Misty as they approach the front door to their home.  He unlocks the deadbolt, and then opens the door, holding it open for his queen.  She brushes past him and walks inside as the others follow behind them.

Misty: Dante, please go upstairs and get my laptop while I go downstairs to the training room with the others.  

Damien and Zane look at each other, both appearing slightly confused.

Zane: You wish to go to the training room now?  We just got home.

Damien: Zane is right, my Queen.  Perhaps we should start your training tomorrow after you've had time to rest.

Misty lets out a frustrated growl as she turns around and looks at each of them.

Misty: What is it with the five of you and constantly wanting me to get rest?!  If I tell you that I'm fine, then it means that I am fine!  Dante, go get my laptop now.  The rest of you will accompany me to the training room until I say we're done.  Is that understood?

They all nod obediently as Dante heads upstairs in a hurry to fetch Misty's laptop.  Misty heads downstairs, with the others following behind.  Ruby stays a safe distance behind so she can speak to Damien so Misty can't hear her.

Ruby: Damien, I believe we need to speak to Dr. Lord this week.  If our Queen will not seek the help she needs on her own, I feel as though it is time for an intervention.  

Damien: We will speak more on the matter later when she is asleep, Ruby.  Until that time, just do as your told.  We will figure out the rest.

Ruby nods and Misty yells out for them.  They turn their attention back to their queen, catching up with Sebastian and Zane as they group enters their training room in the basement and the scene fades out.

*************************

"Fire...an element that symbolizes heat and desire, but it can also cause death and destruction if used improperly.  Fire can destroy everything a person or family has, turning it to ash in a small amount of time.  I was unlucky enough to have my former home destroyed by a fire set by a woman I once considered a friend.  A woman who, as of right now, has not received her payback, but she will in time."

The scene opens up in a suburban Las Vegas neighborhood.  SCW Bombshell Misty is standing in an empty lot surrounded by a chain link fence...the lot where her house once stood.

"Look around me.  What do you all see?  A vacant lot?  A meaningless piece of land?  This could be true, but this piece of land still has a place in my heart.  Yes, I have a heart, though there are many people who would argue otherwise.  I did not live here for very long, but the time I did meant so much to me.  It symbolized a new beginning for me, after I left my old life and my family behind.  I chose to live my life the way I wanted to, and buying the house that once stood here was a symbol of my freedom and independence."

Misty walks around the lot, looking at the cement foundation that was centered in the middle of the yard.  The debris from her long since burned down house had been cleared away months ago, but she still owned the land she stood on.  

"Everything I have accomplished in my career, I've done on my own.  Again there are certain people, one in particular, that would like to take some, if not all of the credit for the success I have achieved but it was all me.  I had accomplished so much last year and not just in Sin City Wrestling, but the NWA as well.  Just last year I won the very tournament I am competing in right now.  I won the 2012 J-Cup Tournament and the World Cruiserweight Title eleven months ago.  I did it...no one else."

Misty looks into the camera, and an arrogant smile grows on her face.

"I was the World Cruiserweight Champion for four months.  Some of you might not remember, because I didn't put myself into the spotlight within the NWA.  I wasn't the Cruiserweight champion you all needed at the time, so what did I do?  I gave it up.  Yes, you heard me correctly.  I gave it all up."

The arrogant look quickly fades to regret as she remembers her last title defense.

"I had big plans as the NWA World Cruiserweight Champion, but around the time I lost the title to WCCW's Zak Phenom, I had a lot going on.  I was involved in a war with a woman who I've hated for close to ten years now, and she wanted to end me.  She wanted to end my career, and she came close just a few weeks after I lost the title.  All my plans...all my hopes and dreams in the NWA were put on hold indefinitely as I recuperated from the severe injuries I suffered at the hands of Roxanne."

Misty turns around, walking towards the backyard are of the lot.  A patio table is placed near the edge of the fence, and from a distance we see there is some sort of trophy placed in the middle of the table, and Misty walks towards the table.

"Everything I had accomplished and my status in the NWA simply vanished.  My name was just a mere whisper within the Alliance and my reign as the World Cruiserweight Champion was practically forgotten.  None of you remember much, if anything about me, do you?  Well, that is all about to change.  And it starts with you, Morpheus."

Misty approaches the table.  She walks behind it, standing directly behind the trophy, which is now shown to be her J-Cup Trophy from last year's tournament.  She runs her hand along the top of it with a smile.

"Take a look at this trophy before me, Morpheus.  This is part of the prize that you and the fourteen other entrants in this tournament want.  It is not the ultimate prize, no, but a piece of it none-the-less.  The ultimate prize, of course, being a shot at the current World Cruiserweight Champion in just a few months.  You see, Morpheus, that is something I want more than the rest of you in this tournament.  It is something that I will get."

She sits down in one of the chairs, keeping her eyes locked on her J-Cup Trophy.

"You might not know much about me, Morpheus, but once we step into the ring on February 3rd, you will know everything about me.  You will stand before me and realize just who I am and what I can do.  I've researched you enough already.  More than I should have honestly, and I must say you will be taught a lesson.  You are in for a rude awakening when we meet face to face in the ring in a couple of week.  I hope you do not expect to treat me like one of the many women you have used and tossed aside in the past, because I am much more powerful than you can imagine."

Misty moves her eyes so she is looking directly into the camera.  A dark and sadistic look grows in her eyes.

"My dominance has no end, Morpheus.  I entered this tournament for a reason.  That reason is because I know I will go through each and every opponent leading to the finals where I will be crowned the winner for a second year in a row.  If you haven't seen my performance in SCW over the last few months, I suggest you take a look.  I've owned the competition, and now it is time I own the Alliance as well.  I'm ready to reclaim what was once mine in the NWA and no one will stop me!  You, Morpheus, are the first in line within the Alliance that will fall.  You will do what everyone else will sooner or later when you kneel before me and proclaim me your queen.  If you do not, then I will force you to do so.  The choice is yours, Morpheus.  We can do this the easy way...or we can do this the hard way."

Misty stands up, placing the palms of her hands on the table in front of her.  She leans forward, putting her face directly into the camera.

"Your soul is damned, Morpheus.  And it belongs to me!"

END FEED

 "Since returning in October from the injuries I sustained in my match against Roxanne back in July, I've made my intentions clear...or at least I hope I have.  I've faced four women since my return.  Four opponents...four victories.  My dominance and reign over the Bombshell division has been clear since the night I came back and not one single person can deny that."

"Not only have I defeated every single Bombshell Mark Ward and Christian Underwood have thrown my way since I handed them the doctors note medically clearing me to return to the ring, but I've made an impact on those who I have not faced as well...including the women who I will be facing at New Year Rising...Miss Odette Ryder.  I've made no secret in the fact that I have been after Odette and have much been looking forward to facing her.  I had hoped it would be much sooner than this, but I'm a patient person so I waited.  Besides, it gave me some time to have a little fun and toy with Odette.  Which I did."

"Ever since then, I've had people constantly asking me why I've decided to target Odette.  After all, she never did anything to me.  She never interfered in my business.  She had nothing to do with my feud with Roxanne or anything of the sort.  So why am I going after her?  Why am I, the Queen of the Damned, going after poor innocent Odette Ryder, the always cheerful and bubbly Australian Bombshell?"  

"That is EXACTLY why I am going after Miss Ryder!  It doesn't matter what anyone does to her, it always seems as though she is in a good mood.  She is always so happy...so bright eyed and positive!  It's quite sickening if you ask me.  Everyone simply loves Odette Ryder, don't they?  Don't you all?  It doesn't matter what she does, you're all always cheering her on, giving her your undying love and support.  And don't even get me started on that...relationship...of hers with Mr. Magic Man.  What is Sin City Wrestling turning into lately?  Are we here to wrestle, or run a dating show?!"

"I'll fill you all in on a little secret, though, and this may come as a shock to most, if not all of you.  You see, Odette Ryder won the Bombshell Championship...MY Bombshell Championship...back at the very first supercard I wasn't able to compete in.  She won the title at the supercard I had hoped to attend, but just a few weeks before was put out of commission for three long months. So, I was forced to sit back and watch as someone else took my place at the top of the Bombshell Division. I sat back and watched as Odette Ryder became the face of the Bombshell Division, but I wasn't angry.  No, I was quite happy for Odette and I knew she would do great things for the Bombshell Division.  Are you all shocked to hear that?  I'll be surprised if you aren't.  After Odette won the title and solidified her status as the leading lady in the Bombshell Division, I had made a decision that didn't sit so well with my disciples."

"I had decided that my wrestling career was over..."

*************************

Sunday August 12th, 2012

Almost a month has gone by since Misty and Roxanne faced off in the ring, and up until just a few days ago, Misty has been bedridden as she recuperates from her injuries.  She has had round-the-clock care, however, as Ruby and the brothers have been looking after her, as well as every day visits from their personal doctor, Dr. Lord.  Her physical injuries are slowly healing, but her mental health seems to be declining, and that has Ruby and the brothers all worried.

Sin City Wrestling's latest supershow, Summer XXXTreme is scheduled to air this evening.  Misty would have been on this show...on the cruise...but it seems fate had other plans for the two-time former Bombshell Champion.  At this very moment, Misty is laying in bed looking almost catatonic as she stares at the wall.  Ruby is in the room to check on her, and grows concerned as she looks at Misty.

Ruby: My Queen?  Are you alright?

Misty offers no response.  She blinks her eyes once, but she doesn't even so much as look at Ruby or make a single sound.  Ruby approaches Misty's bedside, sitting on the edge of the bed in front of her.  She runs her hand through Misty's hair, trying to get some sort of response from her.

Ruby: My Queen...please speak to me.  What is wrong?  Please let me help you.

Misty remains motionless as she lays on her side.  She does, however, move her eyes to look at Ruby with a sad almost helpless look.

Misty: You can't help me, Ruby...No one can.

Ruby: What?  Of course I can help you.  The brothers and I are devoted to helping you.  You know that.  Please tell me what is wrong.

Misty turns her attention away and stares at the wall again.  Ruby folds her arms across her chest, waiting for Misty to say anything.  She waits for a while, not pressuring Misty to say anything if she doesn't want to.

Misty: Look at me, Ruby.  I'm never going to wrestle again.  Roxanne got what she wanted.  She cost me...everything.

Misty hesitates as she finishes her sentence.  It's almost as if there is a deeper meaning to what she is saying, though she hides her emotions as best as she can.

Ruby: You will wrestle again, my Queen.  It may take some time as your injuries fully heal, but you will take your place back in Sin City Wrestling once again.  Roxanne did not accomplish anything.

Misty: Yes she did, Ruby.  I'm done talking about this.  Just leave me alone.

Ruby: I'm sorry, but I don't think that--

Misty: I SAID LEAVE ME ALONE!  GET OUT OF HERE RUBY!

Misty rolls on to her injured side sharply causing a jolt of pain to course through her.  She doesn't yelp, but masks the pain as she orders Ruby away.  Ruby stands up from Misty's bed, and stands in front of her.  She nods her head once and takes a step back.

Ruby: As you wish, my Queen.  I'll come back in a little while to check on you.

Ruby turns and walks away, obeying Misty's command, thought it is clear her feelings have been hurt.  She walks out of the room, where she is met by Sebastian.

Sebastian: Is everything okay, Ruby?  I heard her shouting.

Ruby: I'm afraid not, Sebastian.  She has completely given up.  The emotional trauma is just too much.

Sebastian: Please do not take offense to this, Ruby, but I believe Damien may have been right.  He told you not to--

Ruby shakes her head and holds up her hand, interrupting him.  She has almost almost a remorseful look in her eyes.

Ruby: I do not care what Damien thinks, Sebastian.  It pains me to see her this way, but she had every right to know.  She will get better.  She will get through this, and she will return to her rightful place in Sin City Wrestling.  

Sebastian: If you think so.  As for now, should I call Dr. Lord?  Perhaps he can speak with her.

Ruby shakes her head.

Ruby: I think we should wait.  She will come around, I'm sure.  I think she is just going through one of her moments.  How would you feel if you were practically bedridden and needed assistance doing everything including bathing?  I will monitor her tonight, and if she hasn't come around by tomorrow, I will speak with Dr. Lord.

Sebastian shrugs, not completely agreeing with Ruby's decision.  He is about to speak, when Misty's voice comes from inside her room.

"RUBY!"

Sebastian then walks away and Ruby turns around heading back into Misty's room.  Misty is now sitting up in bed, looking at Ruby.  She appears to be more relaxed as Ruby walks over to her.

Ruby: Yes, my Queen?  Is everything alright?

Misty: I'm sorry that I snapped at you like that.  It was uncalled for.

Ruby: No need to apologize, my Queen.  I understand everything you are going through.

Misty smiles, but she shakes her head.  She adjusts herself to get more comfortable in the bed.

Misty: You are too kind, Ruby, really.  Look, I need you to do me a favor.

Ruby: Anything, my Queen.  I am here to serve you.

Misty nods.  She is still clearly uncomfortable with being referred to as their queen, and not yet used to the fact that they will do anything she asks of them.

Misty: Right.  Look, Summer XXXTreme is supposed to be airing in the next hour or so.  Can you bring me a laptop so I can watch the live streaming on the website?

Ruby seems slightly confused and a little unsure.

Ruby: I'll do anything you wish, my Queen, but why do you want to watch that show?  I think it might be a bad idea, as it may upset you further.

Misty: I'll be fine, Ruby.  I promise.  I may not be able to wrestle right now, but I'd like to keep up to date on what is going on in SCW while I'm away.  I'd like to keep an eye on MY Bombshell Title.

Ruby: Very well.  I will go find brother Damien and ask him for his laptop for the night.  I will be back shortly.  Do you need anything before I go?

Misty shakes her head no with a polite smile.  She runs her hand through her hair, and Ruby nods.

Misty: No, that will be all Ruby.  Thank you.

Ruby bows and then she turns and walks out of the room to find Damien.  Misty leans her head back against the headboard of her bed, and draws in a long deep sigh.  She props her good leg up, and reaches over to the end table next to the bed, opening the drawer.  She pulls out a picture and stares at it with sad eyes, before pulling it into her chest.  She closes her eyes and appears to be fighting back tears, and she slides herself down in the bed.  She makes herself as comfortable as she can, before she pulls the sheet over her body, and rolls on to her good side to rest for a while as she waits for Ruby to return.

Later that night...

Ruby has just walked into Misty's room carrying a dinner tray for Misty.  She carries it over to her queen, where Misty is relaxing comfortably on her bed, with Damien's laptop in her lap.  She is watching the live stream of Summer XXXTreme as it airs from the Royal Monarch Cruiseline.  Ruby sets the tray down next to Misty, sliding it close to her so it is easier for her to reach.  Summer XXXTreme is about seventy-five percent complete, and Ruby walks over to the other side of the bed, sitting next to Misty.  Misty grabs the glass of iced tea Ruby brought her, takes a sip and watches the laptop with anticipation.

Misty: Good lord, it's about damn time!  I thought that Roulette Title match was never going to end.  Next up...Brooklyn Carter defends MY Bombshell Title against a red-headed nobody, and the always cheerful Aussie, Odette Ryder.  Time to pay attention, Ruby.  The first title defense is the most important, though Brooklyn wouldn't even have this opportunity if it weren't for Roxanne.

Ruby hisses at the mention of Roxanne's name.  Misty looks at her and laughs.

Misty: My thoughts exactly, Ruby, but unfortunately I can't do anything about it right now, can I?  Let's see if Brooklyn can keep ahold of that title that Roxanne gift wrapped for her, shall we?  

Ruby: The title will be yours again one day soon, my queen.  I promise you that.  Now, please eat your dinner.  You need your strength.

Misty shrugs, and turns her attention to the tray of food just as the Carly Athens, Odette Ryder and Brooklyn each make their entrances for the match.  She pulls the tray a little closer to her, grabs the fork and takes a bite of the salad.  Ruby watches Misty, making sure her queen eats enough, and she does, but Misty never takes her eyes off of the computer screen.  She watches the Bombshell Title match closely, laughing and shaking her head early on as Carly and Odette focus on one another, and not Brooklyn Carter.

Misty: Those two are making this match too damn easy for Brooklyn to win.  They're going to destroy each other, and she'll take advantage of that.

Ruby: Is that not what a smart champion would do, my queen?

Misty takes another sip of her ice tea after she finishes the salad.  She nods, and watches as Carly attempts to get Brooklyn's help in the match, only for Brooklyn to make the smart move and attack the crazy red-head.  Misty laughs again.

Misty: Of course it is, Ruby.  But the challengers should realize that, too.  If either of those two wants that Bombshell Title, they better start using their heads a little more.

Misty and Ruby continue to watch the match together.  They are not cheering anyone on in particular, though deep down, Misty wants Brooklyn Carter to lose.  In the end, that is exactly what happens, though it was no fault of Brooklyn's.  Odette Ryder had pinned Carly Athens to win the Bombshell title, and Brooklyn was simply not fast enough to break up the pinfall.  SCW had a new Bombshell Champion, and the whole entire crowd in attendance was thrilled.  Misty watched as Odette celebrated, hoisting the title that was hers just over a month ago, and somehow, it didn't sit well with her.  She slammed the laptop shut, sliding it off her lap, and folding her arms across her chest.  Ruby looks at her with concern.

Ruby: My queen?  What is wrong?

Misty: Nothing is wrong, Ruby.  Nothing at all.  SCW has their new Golden Bombshell.  They've replaced me as you can see, but that's okay.  I'm perfectly fine with that.  Odette Ryder will make a good champion.  SCW can go on without me.

Ruby stares at the laptop for a moment, then looks at Misty.  Misty is staring ahead, arms still folded, but she remains silent.  Ruby reaches for the laptop, pulling it towards her.  She goes to open it, but Misty puts her hand out, keeping it closed.

Misty: Leave it, Ruby.  I'm done watching it.  In fact, you can take the laptop back to Damien now.

Ruby: But there is still one match left, my queen.

Misty: I don't care.  It's the Heavyweight Title match.  It doesn't concern me so I could care less.  Get this laptop out of my sight, and while you're at it, you can take the dinner tray away as well.  I'm full, but thank you for the food.  

Ruby sits there for a moment, debating her next move.  She wonders if she should ignore Misty's orders, but Misty makes up her mind for her quickly.

Misty: Go, Ruby!  I'd like to get some sleep.

Ruby: Yes, my Queen.  As you wish.  I will take Brother Damien his laptop first, and I will return for your dinner tray.

Ruby scurries off out of the room, sensing Misty's increasing bad mood.  Once Ruby is out the door, Misty looks down to her injured arm and leg and just stares at the casts for a long while.  Never before had she felt so...helpless, and in a fit of rage, she put her good hand on the dinner tray, and tossed it off of the bed, sending the leftover food all over the floor, and shattering the dishes in the process.  She slides back down in bed wasting no time in closing her eyes in an attempt to quickly fall asleep.

*************************

"Ruby had warned me not to watch the show that night.  She had a feeling it would make me more upset, but I just couldn't listen to her.  I had to watch.  I had to see what would become of my Bombshell Title, and ultimately, I ended up regretting that decision.  I don't think I would have reacted that way had Brooklyn Carter actually retained the title, but she didn't.  Little Miss Odette Ryder won the Bombshell Title and I was pissed!"

"That should have been ME!  I should have been facing Brooklyn Carter at Summer XXXTreme for my return shot to get my title back, but was I?  No, I wasn't!  I was bed-ridden and completely unable to do anything without anyone's assistance, and it was all thanks to that bitch Roxanne!"

"Roxanne got exactly what she wanted after that.  I was gone.  My career was pretty much over.  At least in my eyes it was.  Dr. Lord was very optimistic I would make a full recovery and would return to the ring, but I had just decided to give up.  Odette Ryder was the SCW Bombshell Champion.  Everyone was happy so why bother returning to a sport where no one wanted me around or even respected a damn thing I did?  What was the point?"

"That whole week following Summer XXXTreme, I was in a terrible mood, and I was taking it out on Ruby and the brothers, and even Dr. Lord during his visits to oversee my recovery.  The brothers were very bothered by this.  They won't admit to it if you were to ask them, but I know they were.  Every outburst and every horrible thing I said to them, they just took it all in.  Even Ruby."

"Ahh, yes, my dear sweet Ruby.  Always so protective and watchful of me.  She has never once lied to me.  She kept things from me, yes, but only until I was well enough to know certain things, or until she thought I was ready."

"She was the one who told me why they had taken me."

*************************

One week after Summer XXXTreme

Misty: Get out!  Get the hell out of here!  All of you!  I swear, once I'm able to walk out of the God-forsaken place, I'm leaving!  LEAVE ME THE HELL ALONE!

Damien and Sebastian stand just outside of Misty's room, immediately turning their attention to the door as they hear her sudden outburst, followed by a loud crash.  She continues throwing a fit inside, and a few minutes later, everything goes quiet.  Damien and Sebastian look at one another, slightly worried and are about to head inside, when the door opens and Dante and Zane walk out, both looking equally concerned.

Damien: What the hell is going on in there, brothers?

Dante: She is suddenly refusing Dr. Lord's medical treatment, Damien.  He needs to take more X-Rays to see how her bones are healing, but she won't let him anymore.  Ruby can't even seem to get through to her at the moment.

Damien sighs and shakes his head.  He runs his hand over his head, trying think of what to do next.

Damien: This is exactly what I had feared, brothers.  Why did everything go silent all of a sudden?  Is she alright?

Zane: For the moment, yes.  Dr. Lord gave her a sedative, though, so he can take the next set of X-Rays after he removes the casts.  He sent us to get the portable X-Ray machine.

Sebastian: May we go in to see her?

Dante and Zane both nod.

Dante: You may, but once Zane and I come back with the X-Ray machine, none of us can be in there.

Just then the door to Misty's room opens again, and Ruby walks out.  She, too, has a concerned look on her face as she approaches Damien.

Ruby: Damien, may I speak with you a moment?

Ruby pulls Damien aside as Dante and Zane head off down the hall to get their portable X-Ray machine.  Damien holds a hand up to Sebastian, telling him he'll be just a moment, and he turns to face Ruby.

Damien: What is it, Ruby?  Is something wrong?

Ruby: Everything is wrong, Damien.  Can't you see?  Or rather, can't you hear?  Our queen is falling further and further into a depression.  She is now refusing Dr. Lord's care, and he does not think it is a wise idea to keep her sedated all the time, but if she keeps up this behavior, that is the only way she will be able to full heal.  And it will take much longer.

Damien takes in a deep breath and thinks for a moment.

Damien: I am well aware of that now, Ruby, but what are we supposed to do?  She needs to heal.  If Dr. Lord needs to keep her sedated for a while to help the process along then what choice do we have?

Ruby looks Damien in his eyes, her mood turning more serious.

Ruby: I need your blessing for me to speak with her as soon as she wakes up, Damien.  I think it is time I tell her what she wants to hear.  Our queen must know her purpose in life, Damien.  She needs to know why we brought her here.

Damien looks at Ruby, his face remaining expressionless.  He looks over to Sebastian who is keeping an eye on the situation from a distance.  Damien looks back to Ruby and nods.

Damien: Perhaps you are right, Ruby.  I was just hoping to hold it off a little longer, but it appears that is not an option.  You have my permission and my blessing to tell her.  I will be there to help you if you need me, as will Dante, Sebastian and Zane.  

Ruby: I would like to try this alone first, if you don't mind.  This must be done delicatly and if you four are around, she might feel overwhelmed.  

Dante and Zane then return to the scene, rolling the portable X-Ray machine toward Misty's door.  They focus on Ruby and wait for her.

Damien: Fair point.  If you need anything, Sebastian and I will be waiting here.

Ruby nods, and she turns around disappearing back inside Misty's room with Dante and Zane following behind her.  Dante and Zane once again emerge from the room a few minutes later after they had finished helping Ruby and Dr. Lord set up the X-Ray machine.  They join Damien and Sebastian as they are leaning against the wall, waiting patiently.  They don't speak a word as they wait while Dr. Lord takes the next set of X-Rays on the woman they have chosen as their leader.  They wait, and they all hope for the best.

The Next Morning...

Ruby is sleeping in the chair at Misty's bedside where she has been all night.  After being sedated the night before so Dr. Lord could assess how her broken bones were healing, Misty slept through most of the night.  She stirred a few times here and there, but for the most part, she did not wake up until just now, much to Ruby's relief.  Misty pushes herself up in bed, blinking her eyes a few times and trying to shake off the last remnants of sleep, as well as the effects of the sedative.  She sees Ruby sleeping in the chair, and tries to remember anything from the night before.

Misty: Ruby?  Ruby, wake up.

Having heard Misty addressing her, Ruby's eyes immediately open.  She yawns once, but is quickly on her feet and over next to Misty.

Ruby: My apologies, my Queen.  I did not intend to sleep so late.

Misty: No need to apologize, Ruby.  Did you sleep there the whole night?

Ruby nods.

Ruby: Yes, I did.  Before Dr. Lord took X-Rays last night, you were quite upset.  I wanted to make sure that you were okay when you woke up.  

Misty: He took the X-Rays even though I told him not to?  Why?  I don't want his help, Ruby.  I don't want any of you to help me anymore.

Ruby takes a seat next to Misty on the bed.  Misty looks at her, wishing she hadn't sat down, but Ruby shakes her head.  This is the one time where it appears she will not do what her queen wants her to do.

Ruby: I know how you must be feeling, my queen, but you must let us help you.  We are here because we want to be, and we want to help you.  We want to serve you.  Please do not fight us.  It will only set your recovery back, and there is nothing more than we would love to see than for you to get back to Sin City Wrestling and reclaim your position in the Bombshell Division.  

Misty laughs.

Misty: That's not going to happen, Ruby.  You need to accept that.  I've already been replaced, but I honestly don't care anymore.  And as for you and the brothers wanting to help me, and being here to serve me...I never asked you for your help, and quite honestly, I'm still confused as hell as to why I'm here!  For people who are here to serve me, you're treating me like a damn prisoner!  Why won't you let me go?!

Ruby: My queen, you are free to go whenever you so wish, but given that you are still healing, I would advise against it, and I also would like to tell you something before you make a decision.  I believe once you hear the truth, you will truly understand everything we have done for you over this past month.  Will you listen to me?

Misty just sits there staring at Ruby for a while.  She doesn't answer right away as she studies the look on Ruby's face.  She searches for any sign that Ruby is lying to her, but she can not see one.

Misty: I guess I have no choice, do I?  You're going to tell me either way, so you may as well go ahead and tell me.  

Ruby: You always have a choice, my queen.  Remember that.

Misty rolls her eyes, but she lets Ruby continue.

Ruby: For weeks leading up to your match with that vile woman, Roxanne, the brothers and I tried to reveal ourselves to you.  We wanted to, but we were afraid if we did it so soon, you might be frightened, or if you weren't you would simply want nothing to do with us...that you wouldn't listen to any of us.  We kept a close eye on you from a safe distance so you wouldn't see us, except the night in the cemetery.

Misty doesn't appear to be listening to Ruby, but when she brings up the cemetery, her eyes widen a bit.

Misty: Wait a minute...That was you?  

Ruby: It was.  We were watching you to make sure nothing happened to you.  I was worried you might get hurt, or worse, so Damien agreed that we should follow you and see what you were doing.  I think I was the most surprised when we saw what you were doing, honestly.

Misty: I had to see what that bitch did, Ruby.  We all thought she was dead, and it wouldn't have surprised me if there actually was a body in that damn casket.  Too bad she went the lame route and filled it with bricks.

Ruby laughs slightly.

Ruby: Yes, well that woman would stoop that low wouldn't she?  She did fake her own death after all, but do not worry about her anymore, my queen.  Do not let her get to you anymore.  Do not let any of the Bombshells get to you like this.  Your place is in Sin City Wrestling and the Bombshell Division.  The Bombshell Division needs you, because if you don't return, it'll completely fail and everyone knows it.  Do you really want someone like Odette Ryder leading the Bombshell Division and representing Sin City Wrestling as the Bombshell Champion?

Misty: It was bound to happen, Ruby!  She made an impact from the moment she stepped foot in SCW, so how can I deny the fact that she won't make a good champion?  

Ruby: There is only one woman who can lead the Bombshells down the path they must be led.  Odette Ryder no doubt wants to turn the Bombshell Divison into something...good and pure.  Nothing about any of those women is neither good nor pure!  They are all living their lives wearing a mask and pretending to be something they are not!  They are all fake, my queen.  But you...you can change all that!  You have the power to bring the Bombshell Division back to greatness, because with you as its champion, the Bombshell Division has meaning.

Misty stares at Ruby blankly for a moment before shaking her head in confusion.

Misty: Okay, I'm just slightly lost here, Ruby.  Where is this all leading?

Ruby stands up from the bed, standing directly next to it.  A moment later, she kneels before Misty, and bows her head showing her allegiance to her queen.  Misty goes silent, and she doesn't know what to say.  Ruby then looks back up to Misty.

Ruby: I kneel before you, my Queen, showing my loyalty and my allegiance to you and your purpose in life.  You may not see it yet, but you embrace the darkness within you, as do I and the brothers, and it is YOU who will get the other Bombshells to do the same.  They will all kneel before you and submit to your every will and accept you as their queen and their one true leader, and if not, you will force them to do so.  The brothers and I will help you.  That is...if you let us.

Misty's jaw drops in surprise.  Ruby stays kneeled before her, waiting for Misty to either accept or decline the mission they have brought upon her.

*************************

"The rest, as they say, is history.  It took me a few days, but I ultimately came to my senses and accepted my mission in life.  I embraced the darkness, and chose to stay with Ruby and the brothers and refused to go back to being someone everyone else expected me to be, or wanted me to be.  I wasn't going to live my life the way others kept telling me I should, and they helped me realize that."

"It was then that plans for my return to SCW started to unfold.  I was working hard and doing everything Dr. Lord said to ensure that my injuries were healing as quickly, and as properly, as they should.  I kept a close watch on Odette Ryder's reign as the Bombshell Champion, and had fully intended to return to challenge her for the Bombshell Title.  Well, I had hoped to do so, but things didn't quite work out that way."

"Now, can you all imagine my shock and absolute horror as I watched Odette Ryder lose the Bombshell Title to, of all people, Mercedes?  I mean, REALLY?!  Mercedes wasn't even on the roster at the time, but due to the delicate condition in which Brooklyn Carter found herself, they chose to put Mercedes in her place.  WHY?!"

"Needless to say...I was absolutely livid.  And Ruby can vouch for that."

*************************

Sunday September 23rd, 2012

A lot has happened in the six weeks since Summer XXXTreme.  After Misty's meltdown a week later, Dr. Lord had performed his next set of x-rays on the two time former Bombshell Champion.  Given her mental state at the time, he was quite surprised to see that her bones were healing quicker than expected.  He had decided that she no longer needed to wear casts on her arm and leg, and could start her physical therapy as soon as possible to get her mobile once again.  Misty was relieved to say the least, while Ruby and the brothers were all thrilled and ready to help her in the next step of her recovery.

Nearly every day since then, Misty has been working her tail off trying to get back to Sin City Wrestling as soon as possible.  She had never felt better, and regardless of what Dr. Lord said, she already had a specific date chosen for her return to SCW.  She and the brothers had already been sending in mysterious video promos leading up to her return, and they were all sure no one suspected it had anything to do with her.  Everyting was going according to plan for the Queen of the Damned, and she couldn't be happier.

Misty was slightly disappointed she had missed the big Asian Tour leading up to tonight's big Supercard in Tokyo, but there would be more opportunities in the future, no doubt.  Misty and all of her disciples as she was now referring them as, are all gathered in her room, watching Violent Conduct as it is streaming online, much as she had done while watching Summer XXXTreme.  They are all waiting for the Bombshell Championship match, of course, and Misty can't hide her excitement.

Misty: Can you all believe this?  Just think about it.  In just two weeks, we'll all be in Australia for my big return to SCW.  I've never felt in better physical shape, and I have each of you to thank.  I'm going to watch as Odette Ryder retains the Bombshell Championship tonight, and in Australia...her home country...I'll make my intentions clear to the ever cheerful Bombshell.

Damien: Forgive me for asking, my Queen, but what if Odette loses tonight?

Misty shakes her head as she turns her attention away from the events at Violent Conduct for a moment.  On the computer screen, it shows Vixen backstage shortly after winning the Bombshell Roulette Title.  Misty smirks a bit, before turning her attention to Damien.

Misty: That isn't going to happen, Damien.  Brooklyn Carter can't compete because, surprise surprise, she's pregnant.

Misty laughs, almost uncomfortably at the thought, and Ruby and the brothers all look at one another awkwardly, before looking back to Misty.

Misty: Her friend, Mercedes, has been given the spot for her instead, which I find quite laughable.  Not to mention, the third participant in this match is that vile woman, Vista Kills.  I'm sorry, but Odette Ryder could take both of those women out on her worst day.  Odette Ryder will retain the title tonight, because there is simply no other option.

The brothers and Ruby do not seem quite as confident as Misty, though they do not argue with her.  They all watch intently as the Bombshell Title match takes place.  Misty watches on in horror as Brooklyn Carter interferes several times, trying to help Mercedes win.  In the end, that is exactly what happens.  Mercedes pins Odette Ryder to become the new Bombshell Champion after Brooklyn took care of Vista Kills.  After the match is over, and Brooklyn and Mercedes quickly high tail it backstage, Ruby and the brothers stare at Misty, waiting for her reaction.  She sits there for a moment, jaw dropped in shock, but speechless.  Damien is about to take the laptop from Misty's grasp, when she suddenly sends it flying across the room and against the wall.  She lets out an almost battle cry, as she jumps out of the bed, screaming at the top of her lungs in mad fury.  Ruby walks over to her to approach her.

Ruby: Please, my Queen, you must calm down!  Do not re-injure yourself, please!

Misty: How...HOW COULD SHE LET THAT HAPPEN?! SHE LET MERCEDES WIN MY TITLE?!  I'M GOING TO KICK HER ASS!

Sebastian: Relax, my Queen.  You can still get your title back.  You can go and challenge Mercedes for the title!

Misty spins around and glares at the disciple who is always the voice of reason, Sebastian.  Her cheeks are flushed red from anger, and you can practically see the steam coming from her ears.

Misty: Odette Ryder MUST be dealt with first, Sebastian!  The Bombshell Title now has to wait, and it's all thanks to Odette Ryder!  I can't believe she let that happen!!!

"What?"

Ruby and the Brothers all say the exact same thing in unison as Misty makes this statement.  She turns around, thinking of her next move.  Whatever she was planning...whatever she decided to do, it would all become clear in two weeks on Climax Control in Australia.

*************************

"My plans had to be changed that night after Odette lost the title.  Ruby and the brothers wanted my focus and attention to be on the Bombshell Championship and bringing it back where it belonged, but when Ruby had told me why they had brought me here, I knew I had a much higher purpose.  Yes, I wanted the Bombshell Championship back around my waist, but the more I watched Odette, the more I knew what had to be done first.  The Bombshell Championship would just have to wait."

"I never thought I would actually admit to that, and stay out of the picture when it came to the title that I still consider mine, but it doesn't matter who holds the title.  Everyone knows who gave that title meaning...who gave it importance.  It wasn't Kittie or Raynin.  It sure as shit wasn't Brooklyn Carter or Mercedes.  Odette Ryder...eh, maybe stood a chance, but she blew it.  And don't even get me started on the current champion, Amanda Cortez.  Out of ALL the Bombshells to hold the title, I have been the only one to hold it twice!  I am the one true leader of the Bombshells, and I always will be!"

"So why would I just walk away from it, even temporarily?  Why is it so important that I target Odette Ryder?  Perhaps Odette can answer that.  She knows very well what I want...no DEMAND from her.  It is the same thing I demand from everyone else.  She is just struggling to submit to the inevitable."

"How often do you see Miss Ryder showing any other emotion other than joy...love...optimism?  Does anything ever truly anger that woman?  Is there a darkness within her that is just itching to get out?  Most would say probably not, but I know the truth.  I own her soul, so I know what lies within it."

"It is because of Odette's reluctance that I was forced to take drastic measures.  I did something I honestly never thought I would do, but it had to be done.  I know you're watching this, Miss Ryder.  I know you're paying close attention to my every word, because if you aren't, you are making a huge mistake.  Have I lit a fire under your ass yet?  Have I made you angry yet?  Do you ever want to be reunited with your best friend and you number one fan?  So many questions, Odette, but only YOU can answer them."

"Don't worry, though.  I'm making sure Miss Grace is well taken care of."

*************************

Sunday December 23rd

The events that unfolded just a short while ago were nothing less than shocking and heartbreaking.  It is no secret  that two-time former Bombshell Champion, Misty, is out to torture Odette Ryder any way she can, but the lengths she has gone to this time is an all time low for her.  In case you missed it, just a short while ago, Misty had her disciples do her dirty work for her once again when they got ahold of Odette's best friend and number one fan, Melody Grace.  The five brothers Damien, Dante, Sebastian and Zane along with the fiesty and petite, Ruby, were seen dragging Melody Grace out in the parking lot and loading her into their white van.  There was no one around to save poor Melody.  Misty's disciples had sped away before anyone could reach her.

Misty is now not very far behind as she is heading out to her own vehicle which is still parked in the parking lot.  She has a wicked yet satisfied smile on her face as she approaches her car.  Ruby is patiently waiting there for her.  She is relieved to see her Queen finally approaching her.

Ruby: Thank goodness!  My Queen!  I was beginning to worry.

Misty: What for, Ruby?

Ruby: It took you longer than I expected to meet me out here.  I thought someone might have stopped you or that you might have been hurt.

Misty smiles and shakes her head.  She walks up to Ruby and places a hand on her shoulder, relaxing her nerves just a bit.

Misty: Ruby, you do realize that before you and the brothers came into my life that I was perfectly capable of protecting myself?  The brothers left not that long ago, correct?

Ruby: Yes, just a few minutes ago.

Misty: Okay then.  I couldn't come out here right away because I thought for sure Miss Ryder would still be out here.  Did she run out here?

Ruby shakes her head, causing a look of disappointment to grow on Misty's face.

Ruby: I'm sorry, my Queen, but I did  not see her.  But I'm sure that does not mean she wasn't here.  I had to keep hidden as you told me, so perhaps I just missed her is all.

Misty: Good point, dear Ruby.  Did Damien remember where we are going to meet them?

Ruby: Yes, my Queen.  I also made sure no one followed them, so we should be safe.

Misty smiles, fully satisfied and not showing and remorse for her actions.  She unlocks her car, signaling for Ruby to get inside.  Ruby obeys, taking her place in the passenger seat.  When Misty is about to walk around to the driver's side, a very familiar voice calls out from behind her.  Misty sighs and takes a deep breath.  She turns around to see the very lively reporter employed by SCW, Pussy Willow.  Inside the car, Ruby growls as she sees Pussy Willow, but Misty holds up her hand, keeping her at bay.  Ruby folds her arms across her chest and pouts in frustration, but obeys her queen's order.

Misty: Miss Willow...This is the second time this evening that I am graced with your presence.  To what do I owe the pleasure this time?  I'm afraid you have to make it quick, as I have some where I need to be.

PW: Is that somewhere you are referring to happen to be where your goons took Melody Grace?  How could you do something like that?!

Misty laughs and leans against her car.  She narrows her eyes at Pussy Willow, and smiles with a dark and demented look in her eyes.

Misty: Where I have to be is none of your business, Miss Willow, but let me spell it out for you, okay?  Christmas is two days away.  We do not have any more shows scheduled until New Year Rising, which takes place on January 13th.  I am going to take the next couple of weeks to relax, and then prepare for my very important match against Miss Ryder.  As for what happened to Melody Grace this evening...Well, there is only one person to blame for that, and it is Odette Ryder.  Consider this Odette's punishment.

PW: Punishment?  Punishment for what?  You had your goons kidnap her best friend tonight!  Two days before Christmas!  What kind of human being--

Misty raises her hand suddenly and sharply in front of Pussy Willow.  She takes a step forward, glaring at Pussy Willow with pure malice in her eyes.

Misty: Before you continue what you are saying, might I interrupt you and order you to quit referring to my disciples as "goons", Miss Willow.  They are much more important and powerful than mere goons, I assure you.  They don't make mistakes like some of the "entourages" walking around with other former champions in this company.  They are stronger and they devote themselves to me and my purpose.  Now, I do believe you were about to ask what kind of human being takes poor Melody Grace away from her friends and family just days before Christmas.  I think you know the answer to that question, Miss Willow.  I am not a human being.  Not in the sense that you speak of, anyway.  The souls of everyone in SCW belong to me, whether you all admit it or not.  Eventually you will.  It's only a matter of time.

Pussy Willow looks at Misty as if she is crazy.  She glances to Ruby in the car, and Ruby is watching her like a hawk, ready to strike if needed.

PW: Oookay.  That's all fine and dandy if you believe that, but that doesn't answer the question on everyone's minds.  Why did you take Melody Grace just two days before Christmas?  And better yet, just what hell are you planning on putting that poor girl through.

Ruby has finally heard enough.  She opens the door quickly, and is about to jump out and defend Misty, but Misty shuts the door quickly, barking an order at her to stay in the car.  Ruby has no choice but to obey, though she clearly doesn't like it.

Misty: Miss Willow, my decision to take Melody Grace this evening has nothing to do with her.  She is merely a key piece of the game!  This has everything to do with Odette Ryder, however.  I plan on making sure Miss Grace is well taken care of over the next few weeks, and if needed, even longer than that.  Odette Ryder is just going to have to live without her dear friend for as long as I see fit.  The outcome is completely up to Miss Ryder and how she deals with the situation.  I'll be watching her carefully and simply can not wait until New Year Rising when the two of us finally face each other in the ring.  I'll make sure that once the night is through, no one will be speaking about the Bombshell Championship match between the fetish freak and my ex-fiancee's newest lay.  No, everyone will be talking about one match and one match only...Your Queen of the Damned versus Odette Ryder.  Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm running late.  Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Miss Willow.  

Without another word, and without giving Pussy Willow the chance to respond, Misty turns and walks around to the driver's side of her car.  She gets inside and roars the engine to life.  Pussy Willow and Ruby engage in a staredown, and Pussy Willow can see Ruby's lip curl up in a snarl.  Pussy Willow shakes her head, and Ruby turns her attention back to Misty and Misty drives away and the scene fades out.

*************************

Christmas Eve

Christmas is officially only a few hours away, and Misty has had Melody Grace for twenty-four hours.  Assuming someone close to Melody would try and search for her following Climax Control, Misty and her disciples did not return to their "compound" in Las Vegas.  No, Misty was smart enough to realize that there were people who knew the location to the place she, Ruby and the brother's called home in Las Vegas.  It was for that reason that she simply could not bring Melody Grace back there.  So just where is the Queen of the Damned keeping her "prisoner"?  Only Misty and her disciples can answer that question.

So now that Misty and her disciples have a very special "houseguest" for Christmas, how are they dealing with the situation?  How are the brothers and Ruby handling having to watch after Melody Grace, per Misty's orders, as well as serving their Queen?  Let's take a look, shall we?

Damien, Dante, Sebastian and Zane can all be heard bickering and arguing with Ruby as the scene opens up in an unknown location.  Ruby appears to be trying to make her way into the room being guarded by the brothers, but they are refusing to let her inside, further frustrating the ferocious woman.  She glares up at the men as they hold her back, and her nostrils flare.

Ruby: Let me inside, brothers!  If that pestly little girl wishes to continue to disrespect us after we've shown nothing but kindness to her during this...difficult time, I will have no choice but to--

Damien: Must I remind you, Ruby, that we are under strict orders not to harm Miss Grace while she is under our watch?  You are not going inside this room!

Ruby: The hell I'm not!  I've made food for that girl, and she won't eat it!  I've brought her clean clothes, which she has tossed right back in my face, which she has also spit in!  She must be taught some manners, and soon!  I will not deal with this these next weeks leading up to New Year Rising when our Queen deals with Odette Ryder.  I won't deal with it Damien!

The brothers refuse to step aside.  They stand their ground and behind them, Melody Grace can be heard pounding on the door.

Sebastian: You do not have a choice, Ruby.  Our Queen has given an order and you know as well as we do, it must be followed.  If she wishes Miss Grace to remain unharmed, than Miss Grace will not be harmed. Do you dare go against our Queen's wishes?

Ruby closes her eyes and thinks for a moment.  She takes in a deep breath, holding the bridge of her nose as she tries to drown out the sound of Melody Grace's pleas to be let free.  Ruby growls, then opens her eyes and looks at the men in front of her.

Ruby: Of course not, Sebastian, but our Queen is not thinking clearly at the moment.  Trust me when I say if she has to deal with this behavior any longer, she will agree with my thinking.

Just then, Misty walks up behind Ruby, nearly startling the protective young woman.

Misty: And what thinking might that be, dear Ruby?  Brothers, what is going on here?

The brothers look past Ruby at Misty, and Ruby turns around to face her queen.  She appears slightly embarrassed and apologetic as Misty looks at her, waiting for Ruby to answer her.

Ruby: My Queen, you are back.  I'm sorry, I did not know you would be back so soon.

Misty: Yes, well I made sure to get back as quick as I could, but you didn't answer my question.  What is going on here?

Ruby and the brothers are silent for a moment, as none of them are quite sure how to answer Misty's question.  Melody begins pounding on the door behind them once again, and Misty looks past them at the door, shaking her head with a smile.  Zane is the one to finally break the silence.

Zane: She hasn't stopped since you left, my Queen.  We have not broken our word to keep her unharmed, but she continues to disrespect us.  She continues to disrespect you.  Forgive me for asking, but when will you put a stop to this?  When will you finally say enough is enough and force her to respect you or suffer the consequences?  Ruby has a point.  We will obey you, my Queen, but perhaps you should speak with Miss Grace and get her to see reason here.

Ruby nods in agreement, smiling slightly.  Misty takes a step forward, and all five of her disciples straighten their stances as a sign of loyalty and obedience.

Misty: You are forgiven, Zane.  As are you, Ruby.  I had fully expected this sort of behavior from Miss Grace, but I stand by my decision, and my orders to each of you.  I do not care how much of a temper tantrum that girl throws, you are not to lay a finger on her.  Not a hair on her head will be out of place, do you understand?  I had intended to speak with her as soon as I returned.  

Damien: Where did you go?

Misty holds a small paper bag up in response to Damien's question, as well as a drink.

Misty: I know how frustrated Ruby was getting when Miss Grace continued to refuse to eat the meals she made for her, so I thought I'd try a different approach.  I'm sure Miss Grace believes the food is poisoned or that we are trying to harm her in some way, so this is my way of proving to her I do not want her harmed in any way.  I brought her a cheeseburger and fries, so hopefully she'll eat it.  

Dante: I would have been more than happy to get that for you, my Queen.  You didn't have to drive yourself.

Misty: Actually, I did have to do this myself, Dante.  But thank you.  I want Miss Grace to know that I personally took the time to buy this for her and bring it to her myself.  Please step aside boys.  I'd like to give her this food before it gets cold.

The brothers do as they are told and step away from the door.  Misty slowly turns the knob and opens the door, very slowly.  She expects to find Melody Grace standing right in front of the door, ready to make a break for it, but she's not.  Misty steps inside the room, and closes the door behind her.  There is not a window in the room, and one can only assume it is for the obvious reason Misty doesn't want Melody to be seen.  Melody is seated over on the twin sized bed Misty and the brothers have provided for her.  It is pushed against the wall, and Melody is seated so her back is against the wall.  She stares at Misty, the woman holding her captive, with a blank and almost scared look on her face but she doesn't speak.

Misty: I took the liberty of getting you a meal you might actually eat considering you won't touch a thing Ruby brings you.  I hope a cheeseburger and fries will suffice for tonight, but I promise you after Christmas is passed I will get you anything else you would rather have.  Here you go.

Misty holds the bag of food as well as the drink out for Melody, but Melody stays where she is at.  Misty shakes her head and walks over to where Melody is sitting.  Melody scoots away from her, cowering into the corner, as Misty places the food and the drink on the bed.  She urges Melody to take the food, but again Melody is apprehensive and stays where she is at.

Misty: I know you don't trust me, nor do you believe a word I'm saying, but I promise you will not be harmed while you are here, Miss Grace.  You really need to eat something, so please just eat.  As long as you cooperate, your time here will go by much faster and it will make it easier for all of us.

Melody: I DON'T WANT TO BE HERE!  LET ME GO!

Melody makes it a point to yell as loud as she can so the brothers and Ruby can hear her on the other side of the door.  Misty stares at her a little disappointed, and she looks around the room.

Misty: Look around you, Miss Grace.  Yell and scream all you want, but I assure you that no one can hear you.  You may not want to be here, but you are so get used to it okay?  You're not going anywhere for at least a few weeks, so perhaps we should just try to get along for the time being?  Maybe if you're nice, I might go easy on the reason you are here.  You only have Odette to blame for this predicament you are in.  You do know that right?

Melody: Liar!  YOU had your goons take me!  This is YOUR fault!  Odette would never do anything to hurt me, but I hope she hurts you!

Misty lets out a sadistic laugh, as she slowly approaches Melody once again.  She stands directly in front of her, and folds her arms very matter-of-factly.

Misty: Oh, Miss Grace, I do admire your faith in Miss Ryder.  She is quite lucky to have a friend like you, but I have a bit of a newflash for you.  I hate to burst your bubble, little girl, but Odette will not hurt me in the slightest.  I do hope she tries though, and that she doesn't hold anything back.  Well, I will leave you be for now, but I will have Ruby come and check on you later.  For your sake, I do hope you take my advice and cooperate with us, because I can tell you right now that your lack of appreciation for my kindness towards you is beginning to take its toll on my dear Ruby.

Melody: Kindness?!  Keeping me against my will isn't showing kindness!  

Misty: That I can not argue, I admit.  However, as I said, you have not been and will not be physically harmed.  That IS kindness, little girl, because trust me when I tell you that should I change my mind, torture doesn't even begin to describe what I could do to you.  But, this is NOT about you, as I have said over and over.  So just deal with it and do as your told!  Have a good night, Miss Grace.  I will see you tomorrow.

Misty then turns and walks away, leaving Melody Grace alone once again.  Melody folds her arms and watches as Misty disappears out of the room.  Once Misty is out of the room, Melody glances toward the bag of food sitting just inches away from her.  She can smell the cheeseburger and fries, and her stomach growls, proving how hungry she is.  Melody tries to fight it, but she gives in and grabs the food, and the drink, giving in and finally eating.  Outside the room, the brothers and Ruby are all looking at Misty as she has reappeared.

Damien: Judging by her shouting not long ago, I'm assuming your talk with her did not go well?  

Misty: As well as I expected, Damien.  I imagine within a few days she'll see the gravity of the situation and realize that she is not going anywhere anytime soon.  We will all just have to deal with everything as best as we can.  Ruby, I want you to check on her before you go to bed tonight, okay?  She didn't touch the food I brought her yet, but sooner or later, her hunger will get the best of her and she'll eat.  

Ruby nods her head once , then looks back to Misty.

Ruby: Yes, my Queen.  As you wish.

Misty: Good.  I knew I could count on you, but please try to be as civil as possible.  I know you are frustrated with her, but she is not acting in a way we did not expect her to.  As long as we show as much kindness to her as we can, she will eventually cooperate with us.

Ruby: I hope you are right, my Queen, but I will respect your wishes regardless.  

Misty smiles and turns around.  She pulls a key out of her pocket and locks the door to the room from the outside.

Misty: Good girl, Ruby.  Brothers, you may go and do as you wish now.  Ruby and I each have a key to the room, so if Miss Grace needs anything, one of us will see to her.  As for right now, I am going to go take a shower and call it a night.  I will see you all in the morning.  

Ruby: My Queen, it is still early.  Are you ill?

Misty: I'm fine, dear Ruby.  I am just a little tired right now, and tomorrow is Christmas so I want to make sure I get plenty of sleep.  

Ruby and the brothers look at each other, a little reluctant to believe Misty, but they don't question her.

Ruby: Very well, my Queen.  Rest easy, and if you need anything, please come get me.

Misty: I always do, Ruby.  Goodnight Ruby.  Goodnight brothers.

They all big Misty goodnight and she walks past them and down the hall.  She disappears into another room, where a suitcase with her clothes is seen at the end of the bed.  She closes the door behind her, leans against it and closes her eyes taking in a deep breath.  Misty runs her hands through her long raven hair then walks over to her suitcase, taking out something to sleep in.  As she grabs her pajamas, something falls to the floor.  She reaches down and picks it up, showing only the white background of the picture she holds in her hand.  The look on her face turns sorrowful, and her eyes almost begin to tear up a bit as she stares at the picture.

Misty: Oh my beautiful baby.  Mommy misses you so much.

Misty kisses the picture , then places it back into her suitcase where neither Ruby nor one of the brothers would be able to see it, should they come into her room.  She closes her suitcase, then walks out of the room and to the bathroom to take a shower and the scene fades away.

*************************

 Misty smiles wickedly and stands her ground.  Her disciples are none too pleased at the events transpiring, but she is not intimidated by Necra or her threats.  She approached Necra, as if daring her to do something.

Misty: Let me make myself very clear here, Necra.  I'm not intimidated by you.  I'm not scared of you, and I sure as hell don't give a damn how you feel about the decisions I make.  I do what I want and when I want.  If you don't like it, that is your problem, but I'm not going to run around changing the way I do things just because some wanna-be Goddess whines and cries when things don't go her way.  I'll continue to do things MY way.  If you have a problem...Well, that's too damn bad.  Try coming after me.  I'll beat you again like I did before, only I'll make sure to finish the job.  I'll make you regret ever threatening me, and that Goddess, is a promise.  Now, if you're done wasting my time, I have more important things to deal with than worry about you or your problem with me.  Go back to your tag team partner and focus on keeping your titles, because you simply don't matter to me at the moment.

Misty folds her arms across her chest, glaring at Necra.  Her patience is nearing a breaking point, though she manages to remain as calm as she can.

 Moments later the door opens.  Misty's female disciple, and loyal follower, Ruby, stands before Necra.  She eyes the Goddess of the Dead up and down with a look of disgust as she stands in the doorway protectively.

Ruby: Whatdo you want?  My Queen does not wish to be disturbed.

Ruby snaps at Necra and is prepared to slam the door in her face when Misty walks up behind her.

Misty: Who is it, Ruby dear?

Ruby steps aside as Misty stands next to her.  She takes one look at Necra, and a wicked smile grows on her face.  Ruby steps behind her.

Misty: Ahh, Miss Kane.  To what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?

Misty stands there with her arms folded across her chest, knowing all too well why Necra is there, though she waits for a response.

 Early Thanksgiving Morning

”Thanksgiving.  The time of year in America in which we are to express what we are thankful for.  Thanksgiving is the time of year where one should be thankful for the important people in their lives, and not the luxuries.  Yes, they should be thankful for their families…their friends…but unfortunately, for some, that is not the case, is it?

The recently familiar voice belonging to Misty’s female disciple, Ruby is heard as the camera opens up inside the nearly darkened room.  The only light offered in the room is coming from the moon shining in through the window.  Slow gentle breathing can be heard, followed by an almost childlike whimper.  The light turns on from the corner of the room, where Ruby is seen seated in a chair.  She gets out of the chair and walks over to the large four-post bed and takes a seat on the edge.  Ruby looks at a very restless sleeping Misty, but she does not wake her.

”What a year it has been for my Queen.  She has accomplished so much and made an astounding impact in everything she has done.  She is an inspiration to us all.”

Ruby speaks quietly, the admiration and love shining through her voice.  Misty rolls over on to her side, now facing Ruby, but she is still fast asleep.  It appears that she is dreaming about something very unsettling.

”I look at her and I wonder what would have happened…what almost happened had she really married that…parasite.  I shudder just thinking about how close she was to going through with that wedding, and I for one, am thankful she did not.  Oh how different things would be if she had.”

Misty whimpers and continues to stir in her sleep.  Her eyes appear as though she is crying, or about to cry, and Ruby watches, saddened to see her Queen so restless.  She inches closer to her, ready to comfort her at any moment.

”It pains me to see my Queen like this.  I wish I could make all of her nightmares disappear so she can finally sleep peacefully.  I wish she would confide in me…tell me what troubles her sleep so often, but I shall not pressure her.  I will wait for her to speak to me, whenever she is truly ready.  I will continue to show my dedication and loyalty to her until she orders me away.”

Ruby lays on her side, watching Misty intently as she sleeps.  She watches every move Misty makes, and runs her hand down Misty’s cheek gently, careful not to wake her.

”Too many people around her loathe her very existence.  They believe they know her and who she is deep down, but they don’t.  These people simply do not care, and it pains me to think back to the time just a few short months ago where we were all so close to losing her. How would these people feel had Roxanne prevailed in her mission to destroy my Queen…to end her?  Would they feel guilt?  Would they feel remorse for how they spoke to and about her, and how they treated her?”

Ruby shakes her head and keeps her eyes on Misty.  Misty whimpers yet again, and her mouth moves as she talks in her sleep, but what she says is unclear to the camera.  Misty rolls over on to her other side, and Ruby props herself up on to her elbow, placing her head in her hand.

”Throughout most of her life, those around her have shown little to no concern for her.  Her entire family has done nothing but think about themselves and their needs, when all along, it was she who was troubled and needed guidance.  She was trying to be what they all wanted her to be and not being true to herself and her rightful path in life.  The brothers and I saved her from those people…saved her from herself.  I am thankful she realized what she was doing was all wrong.  I am thankful she allowed me to be her healer, and that she continues to do so.  I am thankful for my Queen.”

Misty suddenly screams and bolts upright to a sitting position.  She is breathing heavily, and sweat drips down her forhead.  She looks around, slightly confused, and turns to see Ruby now standing next to her bed, looking at her with concern.  Misty wipes some of the sweat away from her forehead, and looks at Ruby.

Misty: Ruby?  What happened?

Ruby: You had a nightmare my Queen.  You were very restless in your sleep.

Misty: Did I say anything while I was asleep?

Ruby nods.

Ruby: Yes, my Queen, you did, but it was very incoherent.  Please, my Queen, try and go back to sleep.  You need your rest.

Misty looks to the clock sitting on the end table next to her bed.  2:30 A.M Misty shakes her head, and then looks back to Ruby.

Misty: Have you slept at all, Ruby?

Ruby: I sleep when  you sleep, my Queen.  Do not worry about me.  I assure you I am fine.

Misty: Ruby, I appreciate your concern, but you need rest as much as I do.  You know if I need anything in the middle of the night I will call for you, so you don’t need to watch over me every single night.

Ruby bows her head but says nothing.

Misty: I promise you I will be fine.  Please go back to your room and get some sleep.  You are not useful to me when you are exhausted.

Ruby: As you wish my Queen.

Misty props her feet up, pulling her knees to her chest.  She takes in a deep breath, something obviously distracting her.  Ruby turns to walk away without another word when Misty stops her.

Misty: I can't express my appreciation to you enough, Ruby.  You've taken great care of me these past few months, but you do need to think about yourself sometimes.  I won't think any less of you nor will I punish you.  

Ruby: Thank you, my Queen.  I shall do my best, but I am here to serve you.  Do you need anything before I retire to my room?

Misty shakes her head with a polite smile.

Misty: No, thank you Ruby.  I'll be fine.  I'll see you later in the morning.

Ruby: Of course.  Good night, my Queen.  

Misty: Good night, Ruby.  Don't worry about the nightmares either.  You know what they are about, and I plan to deal with them soon.

Ruby mirrors the same polite smile that Misty gave her and nods, though the look in her eyes tells a different story.  She walks out of the room, quietly closing the door behind her, and she nearly bumps into Zane.

Zane: Ruby, is everything alright?  I heard her scream.

Ruby: All is well at the moment, Zane.  She had another nightmare, but she has assured me she is fine.

Zane looks at Misty's bedroom door taking in a deep breath.  He runs his hand over his head.

Zane: Another nightmare?  Is it about---

Ruby holds a finger up to her mouth silencing Zane before he can finish that sentence.  She folds her arms across her chest and gives him a stern look.

Ruby: Watch your words, Zane.  Our Queen is strong, but there are certain things that even the strongest can not overcome right away.  She will be fine, I assure you.  How is Damien?

Zane: Damien is his usual stubborn self, but he is fine.  The headaches have subsided, which is a good sign.  He does not like the fact that Dr. Lord still wants him to take it easy, even after two weeks.

Ruby smiles and lets out a laugh.

Ruby: Of course he wouldn't appreciate that, would he? Our Queen's disgusting ex-fiancee did hit him rather hard, and Damien did suffer a nasty concussion.  These precautions are for his own good, but I assume now that the headaches are subsiding, Dr. Lord will clear him.  I will speak to him later.

Zane: Perhaps you can get through to him, Ruby.  I am going to go check on our Queen before I go back to bad.

Zane tries to walk past Ruby and walk in to Misty's room when Ruby grabs a hold of his arm, pulling him back.  She narrows his eyes at him.

Ruby: You will do no such thing, brother Zane.  She has probably fallen back asleep, and you will not wake her.  Do you understand?  She needs her rest, and if she needs anything she will call for me.

Zane nods and backs away from the door.  Ruby releases his arm and moves over to her own bedroom door.

Zane: Very well then.  I’ll see you later in the morning then, Ruby.  Sleep well.

Ruby: And you as well, brother Zane.  Good night.

Ruby opens her bedroom door and disappears inside, and the door can be heard locking behind her.  Zane heads off down the hall to his own bedroom.  Several minutes later, when all is quiet, Misty’s bedroom door opens, and she peeks her head out.  She looks down both directions of the hall and, realizing the coast is clear, she steps out, quietly closing the door behind her.  She appears to be fully dressed now, wearing her signature full length black robe over her clothes.  She looks across the hall where two sets of keys are hanging on hooks and her eyes light up.  Misty quickly grabs the keys belonging to the van, and looks down the hall one last time before sneaking out of the building and to the van.  The sound of the engine revving to life is heard a couple of minutes later, and down the hall Dante comes running out of his room, and is met by Ruby.  Dante glances at where the keys were hanging just a few minutes earlier, then looks at Ruby.

Dante: Where did she go?!

Ruby: I do not know, brother Dante, but I will not question her judgement.  She will be back whenever she is ready.  Go back to bed.  I am sure she will be back by sunrise.

Dante: If Damien finds out—

Ruby: There is nothing Damien can do about it.  Our Queen makes her own decisions.  You know that.  I am going back to bed now, and I suggest you do the same.

Ruby then disappears back inside her room.  Dante stands there for a moment, scratching his head.  He then shrugs and walks off down the hall back to his room.  A short while later the scene opens up in a Las Vegas neighborhood.  A few houses line the darkened street.  The white van belonging to Misty and her disciples is parked outside a yard surrounded by a chain link fence.  Yellow caution tape surrounds the lot, and upon closer inspection, we see what is left of the house that once stood in this yard...nothing but a pile of charred debris.

The driver’s side door of the van opens, and Misty walks out.  Aside from her face, the rest of her body is hidden from view from her black robe.  She very carefully closes the door, trying not to make too much noise so she doesn’t attract any attention to herself, and she walks around the van.  Misty stands outside the fence for several minutes, though it seems like longer.  She stares at the rubble, before a vengeful look grows on her face.  She rips the caution tape from off of the fence, tosses it to the ground and opens the gate.  She slowly walks through the yard and toward the burned house, and when she is just a few feet away, she stops.

Misty: Oh, dear Electra…The decisions you’ve made will bring great consequences.  I really loved this house and you had to go and burn it to the ground while I was gone and couldn’t do anything about it.  Rest assured, though…I’ll get my payback sooner or later.  I just have someone else to take care of.

Misty takes a few steps forward, bends down and grabs some of the debris.  She holds it in her hands, then strangely she lifts it to her nose, inhaling.  Although several months have passed, it still smells of smoke.  She grimaces, then tosses it to the ground and dusts her hands off.

Misty: So much has happened in SCW over the last few months.  Had I been around things would be very different then they are at the moment.  I would have gotten my Bombshell Championship back, and the women who held it during my absence, would not have.  Women like Odette Ryder…Mercedes**chuckles**…and now, Amanda Cortez.  The decline in the status of the Bombshell Championship…in the status of the Bombshell Division as a whole is what is driving me to show what true greatness is.  Every single Bombshell on the roster will experience my wrath, one by one.  Necra Otavian Kane was the first, and just two weeks ago Laura Jackson was the latest.

Misty starts to slowly walk around the lot, keeping her gaze locked on what used to be her house.  She narrows her eyes and breathes slowly, as she thinks about all that has happened.

Misty: My sights are set on one person and one person only at the moment, but our wonderful bosses want to protect little miss perfect it seems.  I am quite surprised Mark Ward does not want Miss Ryder finished once and for all, and instead wishes to throw the weakest before me first…including a former Bombshell Roulette Champion in Karina Koji.

A sadistic smile appears on Misty’s face and she lets out a light chuckle.  She continues to walk around the yard, heading in to the backyard.  One of her patio chairs remains in the middle of the yard.  She walks over to the chair, turns it around and takes a seat facing her burned house.  She crosses one leg over the other.

Misty: Future Bombshell Champion versus Former Bombshell Roulette Champion.  How interesting.  Some might think I have quite the challenge ahead of me, but that is hardly the way I see it.  Karina Koji has potential.  She has all the right qualities to go down in SCW history and be truly great at what she does.  She has all the right qualities, but she has not found the proper way to display such qualities and skills to her full potential.  I could show her the way if I really wished to do so, but unfortunately, I do not.  She has been put in my path as an opponent…an enemy…and I intend to treat her as such.  Roulette rules or not, Karina Koji will experience my wrath all while I send a message to every single Bombshell…more importantly, Odette Ryder.  Everyone can continue to underestimate me all they like, but the fact remains that I am the only Bombshell that should be feared on this roster.  And sooner or later, they will all fear me…They will all kneel before me, willingly or forcefully.  The Bombshell Roster belongs to me, and there is not a damn thing any of them can do to stop me.

Misty remains seated in the chair, not moving so much as an inch.  She stares at the charred remains of her house intently, forming her plans inside her head.  She sits there, focusing her mind and all of her energy on the near future until the sun begins to rise off in the distance.

*************************

Later that day…

The large dining room table is set and ready to serve Misty and her five disciples.  Misty’s spot is at the head of the table with two chairs on each side for the brothers, and Ruby’s spot at the end opposite to Misty.  Various dishes are already set on the table as well as a pitcher of ice water and two different bottles of wine.  Misty, Ruby and the Brothers can be heard talking as they make their way to the table from the kitchen.  Damien is carrying a platter holding the large turkey they prepared for their Thanksgiving dinner.  Damien sets it down just in front of his spot, while everyone takes their places at the table.  Damien takes his place, grabbing the carving knife that was left on his plate.

Misty: Before you start carving the turkey Damien, I would like to say a few things.

Damien nods and sets the knife down, and they all turn their attention to their queen.  She stands up and looks to each of them with a genuine smile on her face.

Misty: I look at this wonderful meal that we all helped prepare, and for the first time that I can remember since the birth of my daughter, I can truly say my heart is filled with joy.  I have only known the five of you for just four months, but it feels as though it has been a lifetime.  You all saved me from heading down the wrong path, and returning to the life everyone wanted me to lead.  You healed me when I could not stand on my own two feet and when my own family wouldn't have done what you did.  You opened my eyes to my true calling in life, and I couldn't be more grateful than I am at this moment.

Ruby and the brothers all smile in admiration of their Queen.  For a brief moment, it almost appears as if Misty is on the verge of tears, but she holds herself together as she addresses her loyal followers.

Misty: After what is now being referred to as the Bloodbath with Roxanne, I was left battered and broken.  My body couldn't take any more abuse than it already did, and if it had, I probably wouldn't be standing before you today.  I have no doubt in my mind that had you, Damien and Dante, not stepped in when you did, Roxanne would have tried to finish the job.  She was in nearly as bad of shape as I was, but she was somehow able to stand after that brutal battle.  I owe each of you my life.  I stand before you as your Queen.  I look at you and see the dedication and the loyalty in your eyes and everything you do every day, but I am eternally gratefully to the five of you.  I am thankful to have each and every one of you in my life.

Ruby and the Brothers all bow their heads as a sign of respect and loyalty to Misty, but when she clears her throat, they turn their attention back to her.

Misty: Thanks to all of you, I was able to make my return to Sin City Wrestling, reclaiming my place on the Bombshell roster, and proving once again, why I am the one they should fear.  I may not be the reigning Bombshell Champion, but in the near future, that will all change.  Once my work with Karina Koji, and then Odette Ryder is done, Mark Ward and Christian Underwood will have no other choice but to give me what I deserve...what is rightfully mine.  

Ruby nods her head slowly in agreement and smiles at Misty.  All eyes are still locked on Misty as she looks around the room.

Misty: From the bottom of my heart, I thank each of you for your unwavering loyalty and devotion.  I couldn't ask for better people to spend this Thanksgiving with.  Now, shall we eat before all this delicious looking food gets cold?

Misty gives the signal for Damien to begin carving the turkey, and he picks up the knife and does so.  Ruby and the rest of the brothers begin filling their plates, passing around each dish as they take their share.  Misty takes one of the bottles of wine and pours some into her glass.  She takes a sip, leaning back in her chair as she watches her new family begin begin their conversations while they eat.  A smile appears on her face as Damien offers her some turkey and she accepts, and then fills the rest of her plate before the scene fades away.

*************************

The Next Day...

Thanksgiving has come and gone.  The time for rest and relaxation is over, and it is now time to focus.  It's time to focus on the days ahead, and the tasks which are about to be put in Misty's way.  In just two days Misty and Karina Koji will meet face to face in the ring for the very first time in a match under roulette rules.  Time will tell what the roulette wheel has in story for these two Bombshells, and that does not sit well with Ruby and the brothers.  Especially after what happened in the "bloodbath" with Roxanne just four months ago.

Misty is relaxing in her bedroom at the moment, seated in her throne-like chair.  Ruby is seated on the floor by her feet, and the four brothers stand around them.  None of them look pleased at how calm Misty's demeanor is.

Misty: If I didn't know any better, I'd say you all don't have any confidence in my wrestling abilities. You do not believe that I will beat Karina Koji and make her kneel before me.

The brothers look at one another quickly, before turning their attention back to Misty, all shaking their heads.  Sebastian takes a step forward, a concerned expression appearing on his face.

Sebastian: My queen, we have full confidence in what you are capable of.  That is not what concerns us.  I think I speak for the rest of the brothers on this, but you've only been back a few weeks.  You are healed, yes, but under roulette rules, you could be dealt anything.  It's a game of chance!  

Misty: That is what makes it interesting, Sebastian.  Interesting and fun.

Misty smiles confidently and she crosses one leg over the other.  Ruby turns her head to look at Misty, and Damien takes a step forward, standing next to Sebastian.

Damien: It is not that we don't believe you will defeat Miss Koji, my Queen, but rather what might happen under certain stipulations this match could have.  What would you do if you were given another hardcore match like your match with Roxanne?  You could injure yourself all over again, or maybe worse.

Misty narrows her eyes, then stands up.  Damien is much taller than she is, but he still backs away as his queen approaches him angrily.

Misty: I want you all to listen to me, and listen to me closely.  There is not one damn female on the Bombshell roster that could come close to inflictinf the damage on me that Roxanne did four months ago!  It kills me to admit that, but it is the damn truth.  I understand you all are concerned for my safety, but Karina Koji is not a problem for me.  Roulette rules or not.  She doesn't stand a chance against me.

Ruby: Your dominance over the Bombshell roster shall continue on Sunday, my Queen.  I believe in you.

Misty runs her hand over Ruby's head as if petting her.  She gives Ruby a warm-hearted smile, and Ruby remains expressionless.

Misty: I know you do, Ruby.  Thank you.

Misty turns her attention back to the brothers, now more serious.

Misty: Please understand, brothers, there is no need for you to be concerned about this match.  I am healed and I feel stronger than I did before.  I have each of you to thank for that, and I will be absolutely fine.  I know how to handle women like Karina Koji.  I know how to handle people a hell of a lot more dangerous than she is.

Sebastian: Forgive me, my Queen, but try not to underestimate Miss Koji.  She will be in her element in this match as it is under Roulette Rules.  She is a former Bombshell Roulette Champion.  She knows what to expect.

Misty closes her eyes and takes in a deep breath.  She opens her eyes again and then steps forward, standing directly in front of Sebastian.

Misty: I don't underestimate Miss Koji one bit, dear Sebastian.  I know full well what to expect from her.  Karina is a very skilled fighter, and she has the attitude and the passion to back it up.  She is on the right path, heading towards greatness.  I know what she is thinking now, too.  What anyone who faces me thinks.

Sebastian: What is that, my Queen?

Misty smiles and lets out an arrogant laugh.

Misty: Every Bombshell on the roster would do anything to get a shot at facing me, Sebastian. I've accomplished more than any of those other women, and a match against me means an opportunity to defeat me.  A victory over me, Sebastian, would mean bragging rights for these women for a long time.  That is what Karina Koji wants.  That is what she needs.  I may not be the current champion, but I am a champion in my heart...in my soul.  

Damien: My Queen, where does Karina Koji fit into your ultimate goal for the Bombshell division?  She  is already showing signs of the darkness within her.

Misty: Karina Koji is another stepping stone to my goal, Damien.  Every woman I face, is part of that ultimate goal, regardless of they already embrace the darkness within their soul.  One by one, they will kneel before me, including Karina Koji.  She will do everything she can to defeat me, but in the end, she will fail, and I will walk away with the victory.  I will own her soul, and she will have no other choice but to declare it before everyone in attendance.  She will fear me as will the reat of the Bombshells.  Their fate is sealed.

Damien: And what about Odette Ryder?  

Misty smiles wickedly, and folds her arms across her chest.

Misty: Odette Ryder will be dealt with shortly, Damien.  My plans for her have begun to unfold, and she will not know what hit her.  Darkness surrounds her, and is inside of her, she just needs a little nudge...a little help embracing it.  Don't worry, Damien.  She will get there.  They all will, and I will guide them.  

Misty turns and walks over to her windowsill.  She stares at the house in the distance, belonging to Spike Staggs, and remains silent for several minutes.  Her disciples remain quiet as they watch her, and wait for her to speak.  Misty runs her hand along the window, and then turns around to face them once again.  Her eyes have mysteriously changed color, as they are now almost glowing red.

Misty: Karina Koji's soul is damned...and it belongs to me!

Upon seeing her red eyes, Misty's disciples all kneel before her and bow their heads in a show of loyalty.  Misty's mouth turns up in a wicked smile once again, and the camera zooms in on her eyes as the scene fades out to black.

 Halloween Day/Night

There is a slight breeze in the air, sending the fallen leaves from the trees travelling around the ground.  The sun is beginning to set as, as the view from a window shows the backyard to a nice two story home just off in the distance.  Two children can be seen running through the backyard.  The taller of the two appears to be chasing the littler one around.  A low chuckling is heard a few seconds later.  The camera pans back a little, revealing the Queen of the Damned and former two time Bombshell Champion, Misty, standing at the windowsill.  She is looking at the home through a pair of binoculars with a devious smile on her face.

Just then, she lowers the binoculars for just a moment, keeping her eyes on the house without them.  An annoyed and frustrated look appears on her face as a third person is seen walking out from the back door of the house.  Misty raises the binoculars once again, getting a look at whoever it is again.

Misty: Surprise, surprise.  My sweet sister, Dixie, just arrived.  Oh I do wish that little brat would move back to Chicago already.

Misty lowers the binoculars again and shakes her head.  She sets them down on a nearby dresser, but keeps an eye on the house, now apparently identified as the home she used to share with Spike Staggs.  The two children running around the backyard are Spike’s son Timmy and their daughter, Eden.  Misty watches as her sister, Dixie, gives chase to Eden, trying to catch the feisty four year old as her brother has given up.

Misty: Chase my daughter around while you can, blondie.  My blood runs through her veins.  Deep in her heart, she knows who her mother is and always will be.

Misty leans against the large windowsill and folds her arms across her chest.  A serious look crosses her face as she watches as Dixie scoops young Eden up into her arms.  Misty lets out a sort of maniacal growl as she reaches for the binoculars.

Misty: And just what on earth have they dressed my daughter as this year?  I’d bet everything I have that dear Auntie Dixie picked that one out.  A butterfly, I see.  If I remember correctly, my annoying half-sister happens to love butterflies.

Misty shakes her head once again.  She watches as Dixie sets Eden back down on the ground, saying something to the little girl, and only wishes she knew what was being said.  Eden bolts back into the house excitedly, with Dixie following behind her.  Timmy had already disappeared back into the house a few minutes earlier.  As Misty lowers the binoculars and places them back on the table, Ruby’s voice comes from behind her.

Ruby: Is everything alright, my Queen?  I thought I heard you talking to someone, and you did not sound happy.

Misty: Everything is just fine, Ruby.  Thank you for asking.  I was talking to myself.

Misty walks up to Ruby as the only woman in her group of disciples glances past her and out the window.  She looks at the house, nodding her head once, before turning her attention to her leader.

Ruby: Forgive me for asking, my Queen, but were you watching the children again?  I do wish you would agree to move locations now that you are fully healed and well enough.

Misty shakes her head, giving Ruby a polite smile.  She walks past the petite woman, taking a seat in a chair across the room.

Misty: Do you know what today is, Ruby?

Ruby turns and faces her queen once again.  She nods, keeping her hands in front of her.

Ruby: Today is Wednesday.  It is Halloween.

Misty crosses her left leg over her right, leaning back in the chair.  She keeps her eyes locked on Ruby, an evil smile growing on her face.

Misty: It is, Ruby.  Today is the day that children over the world will be walking through their neighborhoods, going door to door muttering that ever so familiar phrase.  Trick or Treat. My daughter is one of those children, Ruby.  My daughter is all dressed and ready to go get as much candy as her little heart desires, and do you know what?

Ruby stares at Misty with a blank expression.

Ruby: What is it, my Queen?

Misty: Her own father…my ex-fiancée…is not the one taking her it seems, and to make matters even more interesting, my kind-hearted, blonde-headed half-sibling, Dixie, is the one he has chosen to do so.  He also apparently let her choose Eden’s costume this year.  Can you believe my daughter is dressed as a butterfly?

Misty shudders at the thought, and takes in a deep breath.  Ruby laughs lightly as she approaches Misty, standing in front of her.

Ruby: Perhaps young Eden chose her own costume, my Queen?

Misty: That is possible, Ruby, I know.  But do you know what a butterfly symbolizes in some cultures?

Ruby shakes her head and then kneels before Misty.

Misty: A butterfly can be used as the personification as one’s soul, Ruby.  A person’s soul.  Now, should my daughter truly be dressed as a butterfly?  I am her mother, after all, and I cannot stand butterflies, let alone to see my daughter dressed as one!  It’s absurd!

Ruby: Forgive me, once again, my Queen, but Eden is just a child, and you have been away from her for several months now.  She does not have the proper people in her life to teach her her true calling in life.  Yes, your blood runs through her veins, but the longer she is around those people, the less that fact means anything.

Misty narrows her eyes for a moment.  She first appears to be frustrated with Ruby, but her eyes return to their normal shape a few moments later, and her body can be seen relaxing.  She leans forward in her chair, and places her hand on Ruby’s chin, lifting her bowed head to face her.

Misty: You are absolutely right, Ruby.  Thank you.

Ruby: I am always here to serve you, my Queen.  You know that.

Misty: Yes, of course, Ruby.  But, do you realize the idea you have given me just now?  I don’t know why I didn’t think of it sooner!

Ruby looks slightly confused as she shakes her head, looking deep into Misty’s eyes.

Misty: I am Eden’s mother, Ruby.  Spike can try to say otherwise at the moment because of everything I did, but she will always be my flesh and blood.  You and the brothers found me when I was headed down the wrong path, and that is exactly what I plan to do with my daughter.  She will grow up to take her rightful place in the world, Ruby.  Maybe not right away, but it will happen.

Ruby: Anything you wish, my Queen.  You know the brothers and I will help you in any way we can.  Your heir will take her rightful place in your life whenever you wish.  And if that parasite that calls himself her father tries to do anything to stop it, the brothers and I will stop him dead in his tracks.  That is a vow, my Queen.

Misty smiles and laughs at her loyal disciple.  She runs her hand across Ruby's cheek and glances at the window.

Misty: Do not concern yourself with my ex-fiancee, Ruby.  I know how to handle him.  And I will, along with the lovely ladies of NXT.  More specifically, Miss Odette Ryder.

Ruby growls at the mention of Odette, causing Misty to laugh.  She stands up, as does Ruby and walks to the center of the room.

Misty: Your loyalty knows no bounds Ruby.  The contempt you feel for Miss Ryder is stronger than mine at times it seems.

Ruby: It is not only her, my Queen, but the entirety of Sin City Wrestling!  You have been back just a few short weeks, and you are being treated as a newcomer...a rookie of sorts!  It is frustrating to say the least, especially considering they have placed that woman on a pedastal.  As if she deserves to be on the same level as you are.

Misty again laughs as Ruby speaks about Odette.  She signals for Ruby to approach her, and she does so without hesitation.  Misty places her hands on Ruby's shoulders, looking into her eyes...her soul.

Misty: You are upset over my match at High Stakes II, aren't you?  Dear sweet Ruby, my match against Laura Jackson is not a problem for me, I assure you.  The Bombshell division must be shown who their one true leader is and always has been.  It must begin with all the new faces who are not familiar with me and what I can do.

Ruby: I know this, my Queen, but does it not bother you to see the four faces that are in the finals fighting for the Bombshell Championship...your Bombshell Championship?  Three newcomers and...Odette Ryder.

Ruby almost spits Odette's name out as her eyes narrow and she once again grows agitated.  Misty thinks for a moment before leading Ruby over to the edge of the bed, making her take a seat.  She sits next to her, and a cocky grin appears on her face.

Misty: Ruby, how many times must I tell you the Bombshell Championship is not a major concern right now?

Ruby: Once more as always, my Queen.

Misty: I know you and the brothers are upset over my lack of concern for the Bombshell Championship, but none of you are seeing it quite the same way as I am.  One of those four women will walk out of High Stakes II as the new Bombshell Champion.  That is a guarantee.  Now, I have big plans for Miss Ryder, and quite honestly, I have full faith that she will be the victor in that match.  Should I be wrong...Well, any of the other three simply don't stand much of a chance at holding the belt for too long, but I must not focus on a match that I am not involved in.  I have to focus on taking out Laura Jackson.  Do you understand?

Ruby nods, taking a deep breath and relaxing.  Misty runs her hand along Ruby's back, further relaxing her.

Misty: That's a good girl.  It will be dark out soon, Ruby and you know what that means, right?

Ruby: How could I forget, my Queen?  Our visitors will be here, and we all must prepare for their arrival.  I will go find the brothers while you change.

Misty: Thank you, Ruby.  I appreciate everything you  have done and continue to do for me.  It doesn't go unnoticed or taken for granted.

Ruby tries not to, but she is unable to hold herself back from blushing a bit.  She lowers her head with a bit of an embarrassed smile.

Ruby: It is my pleasure, my Queen.  I am here to serve you for as long as you so wish.

Misty smiles back to Ruby as she turns and walks out of the room to find the brothers.  Misty walks over to her very large and spacious walk-in closet.  She grabs a garment bag that is hanging near the front of the closet and looks at it with the that devious smile that is growing all too familiar lately.  She walks over to the windowsill with the garment bag, taking one last look at the place she called home at the beginning of the year.  The house is now dark as everyone is out trick or treating for the night.

Misty: In time, my little girl.  You'll be where you belong.  Mommy just needs to take care of a few things before it can happen.

Something suddenly catches Misty's attention outside the building.  Someone actually.  She watches as a group of three teenagers approach the chainlink fence surrounding the building, trying to find a way inside.  She keeps her focus locked on one in particular as she shakes her head.

Misty: Well look who we have here.  This just took quite the interesting turn.  It seems someone remembered the scary story I told him several months ago.  Oh, how ironic is this now?

Misty chuckles as she keeps her eyes locked on the teenagers about to enter the building.  Little does one of them know the connection he holds to this building, or the surprise he and his friends are about to be given.  One of the "guests" Misty and her disciples had been expecting was none other than the boy she helped raise for close to six years...Timmy Staggs.

*************************

Flashback

They hadn't lived here for very long, just a few weeks actually, but already the Staggs family have adjusted quite well in their new home in Las Vegas.  Misty was worried about how the move would affect the kids, but her worries proved to be unneccessary as both Eden and Timmy were doing well with the move.  Eden particularly loved their new backyard, which was slightly bigger than the one they had in St. Louis.

There was one thing that always caught her attention, however.  It was the same thing that Misty couldn't help but glance at when they were spending time in the backyard.  The old abandoned building just off in the distance.  It was an eyesore to say the least, and today in particular, little Eden Staggs decided to ask about the building as she was in the backyard playing.

Eden: Mommy, what is that place over there?!

Eden turns and points to the building.  Misty looks at the building and frowns.  She knows the story behind the building, having just found out not that long ago, and it is not something she wants her young daughter to know.

Misty: That, honey, is just an abandoned building.  Nobody lives there or works there anymore.

Eden: Oh...Why?!

Misty laughs as the inevitable and virtually unending series of "why's" begins.  She thinks for a second, trying to figure out an appropriate way to explain it, when from behind her, Timmy chimes in his own answer.

Timmy: Because it's haunted, right?  That's usually why those creepy buildings stay abandoned anyway.

Misty turns around, giving Timmy a stern look and sighing.  So much for protecting Eden from the scary story.  Timmy shrugs and laughs, as Eden looks at Misty almost excited.

Eden: You mean there is a ghost in there?!

Misty: It's just a rumor, Eden.  But, yes, the stories say that the building is haunted.  You, however, are too young for the story.

Eden: I am not!  I'm a big girl now!  Ask Daddy!  He tells me scary stories all the time.

Timmy lets out a bit of a snorting laugh.

Timmy: Dad's stories are hardly scary, Eden.  He just makes them less scary so you don't have nightmares.

Eden: Nuh uh!  His stories are always scary and I never has nightmares!

Misty: Ok you two, that's enough.  Eden, I'm not telling you any scary stories, because you have had nightmares before.  You're too young to understand this story, but maybe when you're---

Eden: No fair!  I'll ask Daddy!  He'll tell me!  He always tells me!

Eden then stomps her feet, climbs up the ladder to her slide and then slides down, landing on her feet.  Misty takes in a deep breath, closing her eyes and thinking for a second.  She turns and looks at Timmy, then back to Eden and shakes her head.

Misty: Eden come here for a second, okay?

Eden frowns but she listens to her mother and sulks over to Misty, not wanting to stop playtime.  She stands in front of Misty, her bottom lip pouting out.  Misty kneels down to her eye level and smiles.

Misty: I'll make you a deal, okay?  I'll tell you and Timmy the story, but if you have any nightmares because of it, there will be no more ghost stories or scary stories for you until you're older.  Do we have a deal?

Eden smiles and nods her head quickly.

Eden: Okay!  But I won't have nightmares!

Misty: We'll see about that.  If you really want it to be scary, I'll tell you when it's time for bed, okay?

Eden again quickly agrees before turning around and heading back to her swingset and slide.  She is noticeably more excited than earlier, and her brother Timmy approaches Misty.

Timmy: You're going to sugarcoat the story and make it less scary like Dad does, aren't you?

Misty turns and looks at her son, a wicked smile on her face.

Misty: Absolutely not.  If she really thinks she's a big girl, I'll tell her the story.  But I'm not going to made into the bad guy by not telling her.

Timmy: Yeah but you do realize if she gets scared and has nightmares because of it, she'll be mad at you for telling her and she'll just go crying to Dad.  She always does when she thinks you've done something wrong.

Misty's smile quickly fades and Timmy laughs at her.  He walks away, shaking his head and still laughing, as Misty stands there, blinking her eyes.  She takes a deep breath and shakes her head.

Misty: I can't win.  My daughter is everything I never was.  My daughter is a complete daddy's girl.

Misty turns around to keep an eye in Eden as she has now moved from the slide to one of the swings and is swinging back and forth.  Misty looks past her to the abandoned building, studying it for a while.

Later that night...

The excited laughter belonging to little Eden Staggs fills almost the entire house.  She is dressed and ready for bed, wearing her Hello Kitty pajamas, and has jumped into her bed pulling her blanket over her.  Misty isn't in her room yet, but Spike is.  And he is unaware that Misty has promised their daughter a scary bedtime story.

Spike: Ready for your bedtime story baby girl?

Eden: Uh huh!  But Mommy is telling it tonight!

Eden bounces up and down on her bed excitedly as she waits for Misty and her story for the night.  Spike seems surprised and he raises an eyebrow looking at his daughter.

Spike: Oh really?  But I thought you liked my bedtime stories better?

Eden: I do but Mommy has a ghost story for me tonight!  About real ghosts.  And I can hear it because I'm a big girl and I don't have nightmares even though Timmy says I do!

Timmy: You do, and I bet Dad ten dollars that you'll have one tonight.  How about it Dad?  Want to place a bet?

Eden: Daddy!  I promise I won't have nightmares tonight!

Spike laughs and thinks for a moment.  Timmy walks up to him, waiting for his response, when Spike extends his hand out for a shake.

Spike: Okay.  You're on.  Ten dollars says she doesn't have any nightmares tonight.  After all, she made a promise, right?

Timmy shakes his father's hand making the bet official, but not without a laugh.  Spike gives Eden a goodnight kiss, then stands up from her bed.  Before he walks out, he stops Timmy and whispers to him so Eden can't hear.

Spike: You really need to learn to make your bets a little higher when it comes to her.  You know I can't bet against her, and ten dollars isn't much of a loss.

Spike shakes his head with a laugh and walks away with a smile on his face.  Misty is just walking into the room as Spike is walking out.

Spike: Get a little jealous of the fact she likes my bedtime stories more, did you?

Spike laughs as he stands in the doorway as Misty gives him a stern look.

Misty: You’d just love that wouldn’t you?

Spike: Nah, not at all.  I hate the fact that our daughter is a Daddy’s girl.

Misty pretends to laugh at Spike’s sarcasm, and he lets out another chuckle himself.  She gently pushes him aside and looks toward Eden who is waiting very impatiently for her.

Misty: Oh you’re so funny, babe.  I’ll be in bed in a little bit.

Spike smiles and the two share a kiss before he disappears down the hall and to their bedroom for the night.  Misty turns and looks at Eden, who is staring wide-eyed at her, clutching one of her stuffed animals.

Eden: Mommy!  Mommy!  Mommy!  Can we hear about the ghost now?!

Misty: If you’re ready to hear about the ghost, then I’m ready to tell you.  But first you have to settle down and listen quietly.  You wouldn’t want to miss anything now would you?

Misty walks over to the chair sitting next to her daughter’s bed.  Timmy is sitting on the bed next to his little sister, having been begging by her to do so until he had no other choice but to give in.  Eden finally settles down, laying back against her pillow, pulling her stuffed animal in even closer than before as Misty sits down in the chair and begins to tell her story.

Misty: I hope you’re ready for your first real ghost story, Eden, because this one is a chiller…

*************************

Back To The Present…

Timmy Staggs and his two friends have just entered the building downstairs.  The portion of the building that Misty and her disciples have left untouched and un-renovated looks just as the rest of the building had earlier this year.  Windows are broken.  Walls are lined with holes and cracks from the floor to the ceiling.  The occasional rat and mouse scurry along the floor, disappearing into a hole in the wall.  The building appears to be abandoned.  Which is what Misty and her disciples want people to believe.

Timmy and his buddies look around the room they first walk into, kicking bits of debris across the room without a care.  One of Timmy’s friends picks up a rock, throwing it across the room.  It hits another window and shatters it, causing Timmy to spin around, glaring at his friend.

Timmy: Don’t do that again Dean.  I don’t need us getting caught.

Dean: Man, chill Tim…It’s not like anyone is around to hear us.

Timmy: Look, let’s just go down to the basement and get this over with.

Dean: Why the rush dude?  Need to get home before mommy or daddy realize you’re gone?

Dean and the other teenager laugh and give each other a high five, as Timmy folds his arms and glares at them again.

Timmy: First off, my mother is a selfish bitch and she’s not around.  And second…my dad probably doesn’t even know I’m gone, because he’s hardly ever around anymore.  I just want to get out of this place, because I’m getting a bad feeling about it.

Dean: So you’re scared of some stupid ghosts?  Geez, man, you need to lighten up.  

The three boys head over to a set of double doors leading to the stairs.  One of the doors is broken, barely hanging on by a thread, and Timmy is the first to step through the doors, shining his flashlight down the stairs, and listening carefully.

Timmy: I’m not scared, alright?  Something about this building just seems familiar for some reason, and it gives me the creeps.  Okay, I think the coast is clear.

Timmy starts heading down the stairs towards the basement with his buddies following behind him, mumbling and laughing occasionally.  They walk down two flights of stairs before reaching the door leading to the basement, and Timmy stops right in front of it, turning to face his friends.

Dean: What are you waiting for?

Timmy: You do realize this place probably isn’t haunted, right?  It’s just some lame story that’s been going around to try and scare us?

Before Dean can respond, a loud banging noise is heard coming from behind the basement door.  Timmy jumps back a little, as do his two friends, but none of them seem scared, as the banging continues.

Dean: You were saying?  Come on.  Let’s go say hello to Casper.

Dean then walks past Timmy with the third boy following behind him.  Timmy thinks for a moment, shrugs and then follows his friends as the open the basement door, stepping inside.  The air is much cooler and damp, giving off a musty smell, and the boys can still hear the banging coming from down the hall.  They shine their flashlights down in that direction, when a noise behind them causes them to jump.

Timmy: Did you guys feel that?

Timmy spins around, shining his flashlight in the opposite direction.  Dean and the other boy laugh, still showing no fear.

Dean: Oooh Casper wants to mess with us!  Better be careful Casper or I'll have to call the Ghostbusters!

All three boys laugh, as they split up.  Timmy goes in the direction of the banging noise, while Dean and the other boy go in the opposite direction.  They each shine their flashlights around, trying to catch a glimpse of anything.  Little do they know, there are shadows following each of them.  Shadows with sets of glowing yellow eyes.  They follow the boys, stalking them and waiting for the right moment.

As Timmy gets closer to the source of the banging noise, it suddenly stops, and everything goes quiet.  The three boys turn and look at each other.  Behind Timmy, the sound of a woman's low eerie laughter is heard, and his friends grow wide-eyed with terror.  Timmy looks at them, laughing.

Timmy: Very funny guys, but I'm not falling for that.  

His friends, however, are not joking.  They are pointing frantically behind Timmy at the figure approaching him, or only visible to them, those glowing red eyes.  Timmy has no idea what is lurking behind him.  His friends suddenly drop their flashlights, turn and run off leaving Timmy behind, screaming as they run back upstairs and out of the building.  Timmy laughs and shakes his head.

Timmy: And he said I was scared?  Whatever...

Timmy is just about to walk away when he feels a hand touching his shoulder.  His whole body goes rigid for a moment, before he slowly turns around to face whatever is touching him.  He shines the light on the cloaked figure with the glowing red eyes, and stumbles back, falling flat on his behind terrified.  The five others with the yellow eyes stand behind him as the one with the red eyes takes a step toward him, laughing a slow evil laugh.  Timmy's breathing intensifies, but as he keeps his eyes locked on the figure approaching him, something suddenly hits him.  He reaches for his flashlight, shining it on the person once again.

Timmy: Wait a minute...I know I've seen those eyes before.

Two pales hands reach up towards the hood of the robe, and slowly it lowers.  Timmy's eyes widen again, though this time he is more angry than anything as he looks into the eyes of the woman he used to consider a mother figure.  Misty stands over him, a devilish grin on her face.

Misty: What no hug for the woman who raised you, Timmy?  I'm hurt...

Misty's disciples laugh behind Timmy.  He gets back to his feet, turning for a second to now see the five people standing behind him.  Ruby, Damien, Dante, Sebastian and Zane all have their yellow eyes locked on Timmy with matching evil smiles.  He glares at them before turning his attention back to Misty.

Timmy: As if you deserve any sign of affection?!  You might have raised me for six years but that didn't stop you from tossing me and Eden aside like garbage, did it?  I'm outta here.

Timmy turns around, not wanting to give Misty another minute of his time, when her disciples surround him, preventing him from taking another step.  He is unphased by their attempt at intimidating him.

Misty: Tsk, tsk, tsk, Timmy.  That is no way to speak to your elders.  It seems your father has been lacking in teaching you some respect and manners.  

Timmy: You have no place to even talk about Dad, or his parenting and you know it.  He's never done what you or my mom did.  You both abandoned me and neither one if you give a shit, and you abandoned two kids.  Go to hell you pale faced bitch, and stay away from me and my little sister.

Misty's lead disciple, Damien, places a hand on Timmy's shoulder.  Timmy elbows Damien's arm away from him, spinning around and steppig up to the larger man.

Damien: Watch your language, little boy, and do not address her like that again, or---

Timmy: Or what, freak?  What are you gonna do asshole?

Damien takes a step forward, looking down at Timmy with fire in his eyes.  Misty approaches them, and with the snap of her fingers, Damien backs away, though he keeps his eyes on Timmy.

Misty: Do not worry about Damien, Timmy.  He will not harm you.  He will not do anything unless I order him to do so, and I would never allow anyone to harm you.  

Timmy: No, you just do it yourself, right?  Please, I'm not afraid of your psycho lackeys, and I sure as hell am not afraid of you!  I knew this place seemed familiar earlier.  I've seen it in your stupid return videos SCW played before you came back.  You've been here all along!

Misty: I was never more than a mile away, son.  I've been watching over the both of you.  It is nice to know that you have not forgotten the story I told you just last year.

Timmy narrows his eyes at Misty and his nostrils flare.  Misty smiles as she sees the same look Spike has beem known to give.

Timmy: Don't call me son ever again.  I'm not your son, and you're not my mother.  And some story it was.  If you ask me, you were just revealing your future plans, weren't you?  You and your fellow pale faced freak over there are the two nurses, and your four bodyguards there are the psycho patients that killed them, right?  Real nice.  

Misty: I can assure you that I had no intentions of reenacting that story when I told it to you and Eden last year.  It is merely a coincedence---

Timmy: Save your lies for someone who will believe them, because I don't.  Now why don't you and your puppy dog followers leave me alone.  I never want to see you again.

Timmy glares at Misty again, folding his arms across his chest.  Misty studies him for a second, seeing so much of Spike in him, before she looks to Ruby and the brothers.  She nods her head, and they all step aside giving Timmy room to leave.  He turns to walk away, but Misty stops him one last time.

Misty: Oh Timmy?  Be sure to watch over Eden like the good brother I know you are, because I'll know if you don't.

Timmy simply responds to Misty by flipping her the bird, turning and walking away.  Misty can only laugh at the rebellious teenager as he disappears out of sight and out of the building.  Misty looks at Ruby and the brothers, clapping her hands together with a smile.

Misty: Well that was fun, don't you all agree.

Ruby: Disrespectful!  If the princess is around anything like that, she must be taught loyalty and respect before it is too late!

Misty: In time, Ruby.  All in good time, but we have other matters to attend to first.  It is time to begin preparing to take down Miss Laura Jackson at High Stakes II.  

Misty walks past her disciples.  They follow behind her, heading back upstairs snd the scene fades to black.

*************************

"The fun and games are officially over.  The tricks and the treats that come with Halloween have come and gone, and it is now time for work.  Yes, I said work. A Queen's work is never done after all, and I have much work to do.

I have been back a mere three weeks and in that short time, my plans have begun to unfold, and even before then.  There is only one person who can fix the tragedy that is now known as the Bombshell Division, and I am that person.  With the loyalty of those that serve me, the Bombshell Division will return to what it once was.  It will move forward and shine as it is supposed to with meas it's leader.  It doesn't matter if I don't have the Bombshell Championship in my possession.  Sooner or later I will, but I must deal with the trash first it seems.

I've already dealt with one Necra Octavian Kane.  It was no easy task as you all saw, but that is not important.  All that matter is that I defeated her and proved to everyone that the Goddess of The Dead can be beaten.  Now, I am out against someone a little more...Hmm, how shall I put this...easy in the ring.  Yet another woman who calls herself a Goddess.  

Laura Jackson...I've been watching you since your debut here in Sin City Wrestling.  I must admit I was quite surprised when you and your lady love, Miss Amanda Cortez, won the Bombshell Tag Team Championships.  It was a surprise, yes, but it an even bigger surprise to find out you had been stripped of those titles and the match taken off the record due to a failed drug test on your part.  Such a disappointment, Laura.

Quite frankly I don't give a damn how or why you failed that drug test, but you did.  And you are not a champion and this moment because of it.  And, to make matters even more interesting, your love, Amanda Cortez, will be fighting to become the new Bombshell Champion.  Much luck to her, by the way, as I believe she is going to need all the luck she can get.  But, I digress once again.

You see, Laura, you have been put into a situation that you simply are not ready for.  I am a seasoned veteran within this business, and within this company.  I am a former two-time Bombshell Champion.  My power and skills will simply prove to be too much for you.  Do not try to deny it, Miss Jackson.  Do not get overly confident, as I suspect you will once we step into the ring against one another.  When all is said and done, you will kneel before me.  You will submit to my will and exclaim me as your Queen.  Because that is what I am.

Your soul is damned, and it belongs to me.