Voice:  Can you believe that they have kept me stuck in this three-star hotel and not putting me into the ring.  If I didn’t know better, I would swear that they are just punishing me for actually having the god given right to turn my nose up at the lack of talent in this company.

The soft english accent sounds peevish as a young brunette walks along the hallway of the Saxon hotel followed by a frazzled woman who is burdened with a armload of bags and boxes with the names of the stores of the hotel.  Turning after she stops outside of a doorway, Lady Apple Coren takes a slow sip from the brightly coloured straw inside of a rather frothy drink.  Ivy makes her way to the door and fights to pull out the key card to let her ladyship in.

Lady Apple:  Oh bugger, let me!

Taking the key from Ivy who offers the young lady a thankful glance.  Apple ignores it as she swipes the key card and then pushes open the door and walks through.  Ivy is quick enough to turn and catch the closing door on her back and then pushes her way into the room.  Tossing the bags in her hands on the sofa of the room, Ivy collapses beside them as Apple continues to rant and pace.

Lady Apple:  Remind me again why we are here and not in the flat in London or better yet, the villa on the Amalfi coast.  

Ivy turns to look at her boss.

Ivy:  The company has designated that all of the talent needs to quarantine with each other due to the COVID crisis.  Have you not been attending Climax Control or the last supercard milady?

Apple turns to look at Ivy and her head tilts in disbelief at what her assistant had just said.  Sighing and shaking her head like she had just been told that she was put in a time out or something along those lines.

Lady Apple:  You are telling me that I was told what to do?  I am Lady Apple Coren, I am nobility and NO ONE is supposed to tell me what to do.  That is it Ivy, I want you to book a flight back to London for right now.  I am not going to be staying here if I don’t want to.

Ivy gives her ladyship a sad look.  She gets to her feet, grabs her ipad and moves towards Apple who has begun to pace once more.  Ivy stops her and pulls up the notice on the small screen and then holds it out for Apple to read.  Ivy says nothing but prepares for the explosion that happens almost immediately.

Lady Apple:  Oh this is just a travesty Ivy.  Expecting me to remain here like that until they decide that I am not going to be a problem.  If that is what they are expecting then they better make it worth my while.  I have to deal with the scant amenities that they claim are high end hotel luxuries that are not even worthy of a motel four…or eight…

Ivy:  Six milady

Lady Apple:  Six what ?

Ivy offers a smile to Apple who had glared at the assistant as she chuckled under her breath.

Ivy:  I believe the hotel chain is Motel Six.  And you know milady that you did sign that contract so Mr Ward and Mr Underwood do have some control over your career in Sin City Wrestling.  And speaking of, I received a notification that you do have a match this week.

Apple hands the Ipad to Ivy and then begins to smile as she moves towards the bags on the couch which she begins to paw through.

Lady Apple:  So, what title have they decided to give me a shot at?

Ivy backs away as she turns and speaks softly.

Ivy:  It isn’t a title match.

Straightening up, Apple blinks her eyes and slowly turns towards Ivy who has her head down reading what is on the screen in her hands.  Apple shoots a disbelieving glance at Ivy as she moves towards her assistant.  

Lady Apple:  I am sorry, I thought I heard you say that it isn’t a title match.

Ivy:  As always milady, your hearing is quite amazing.  It isn’t a title match.

Lady Apple explodes as she throws the small box in her hand against a wall making Ivy cringe slightly.  Apple moves to yank the Ipad out of the hand of Ivy and then begins to swipe it in all directions.  Finally she slams it towards Ivy with a growl.

Lady Apple:  So who am I facing?  Show me!

Ivy takes the Ipad and then with one quick swipe, she brings up the card for the show and hands it back to Apple.  Taking it from her assistant, Apple runs a finger up to brush a curl behind her ear as she reads the card for the show.  Getting to her match, she looks up at Ivy who nods slowly.

Ivy:  That is right milady, you are facing Keira Fisher-Johnston.

Rumbling with anger as she tosses the Ipad over her shoulder.  Ivy scrambles to catch it, pulling it against her chest to save it.  Apple moves to the window, her hands clutching at the sill as her knuckles go white.

Lady Apple:  Keira Fisher-Johnston.  Why me?  I mean why do I have to deal with the second rate significant other of Roxi Johnston.  I get trying to be able to get out of a shadow but really…Keira?  What did I do to deserve this Ivy…I mean really?  Keira is just barely a step up from Jessie Salco for sobbing out loud.  There must be some mistake.

Ivy:  I am so sorry milady but there is no mistake, you are facing Ms Fisher-Johnston and you have no choice in the matter.  Now I believe that you can beat her however, you do need to do a talk thingie about your opponent…

Lady Apple (distractedly) Promo.

Ivy:  Promo huh?

Lady Apple:  As a bombshell, when we do that talk thingie, it is referred to as a promo, something to promote one’s match.  Basically it is me talking to the camera and telling it just how badly I am going to be beating Keira and other nonsense.  

Ivy:  Ohhh…we have no camera here though.  

Lady Apple doesn’t turn away from the window but speaks over her shoulder at her assistant.

Lady Apple:  Then you need to arrange for a cameraman to come and I will record this promo for facing Keira and tell her exactly what to expect on Sunday.

Ivy begins to tap on the screen of the Ipad as Apple moves to the small kitchen area and disappears from view.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Lady Apple:  This is how you do a promo Ivy, pay attention.

A cameraman is filming as Apple Coren is seen dressed in a black leather jacket over a red halter over a black leather mini skirt and thigh high boots.  Ivy is watching from behind the cameraman and holds a thumbs up to Apple who begins to speak.

Lady Apple:  Keira Fisher-Johnston, I suppose that I should know or rather should care who the hell you are.  Obviously I have not really been around the ring lately, considering that I am a rather black sheep when it comes to the management of this company.  But that doesn’t mean that I am just a bombshell that they throw into a match because they need filler.  And considering that I am facing you, I know for a fact that it is you that is filler, not me.

Lady Apple:  See I may not have been in the ring much but that doesn’t mean that I haven’t been watching and yes, you have won a few matches here and there but in reality you are just a sidekick to your significant other.  I mean really…Roxi I have respect for…she has actually worn a belt worth something here in Sin City Wrestling.  Other than the tag team belt that you held thanks to Roxi, what have you done?  

Lady Apple smirks into the camera as she leans back on the chair to steeple her fingers and tap them against her lips.

Lady Apple:  I wonder Keira…did that hit a nerve?  I hope so.  I am not one to hold back when the truth needs to be spoken and the truth is, you are nothing but a sidekick.  Hero…not likely.  Any and everything you have achieved here in SCW has been because you have been dragged into the spotlight by Roxi and if she wasn’t here, wasn’t your partner, you would be less than nothing in SCW.  

Lady Apple:  And trust me I am sure that you will try to tear me down by saying that I do not have a great record here in SCW.  So what…this is just a way to slum it around for me.  Where I come from I am the upper echelon and you would be nothing but the help.  So on Sunday, I am sure you are going to come looking to make me pay for my comments.  You can try all you want to make me suffer, you might come to beat me but let me tell you another truth that you really need to hear.  

Lady Apple motions the camera closer as if wanting to share a secret.

Lady Apple:  I am coming to lay a beating on you so be prepared to be battered.  When I am done, you are going to need a sidekick’s mask to cover the damage I am going to be doing to you.

Lady Apple points at the camera and with her other hand she motions for the cameraman to stop filming.  As he pulls the camera off his shoulder, Apple waves him off then gets out of her chair and walks away after waving for Ivy to follow her.

 A door slams as boot heels can be heard moving rather quickly across a hardwood floor, the clicks drowned out by the approach to a room where music can be heard loudly playing.  Ivy, assistant to Lady Apple Coren rushes up and knocks on the large door of the room that is the only silencer to the music.  A strident voice can be heard from inside.

Voice: Come in!

Ivy pushes open the door and moves into the room that is dominated by a large fourposter bed with curtains of red and apple green velvet surrounding it.  On the fancy quilt is a bunch of suitcases in various stages of packing.  Ivy looks around but doesn’t see the owner of the room.


Ivy the Assistant: Milady I have the information you were asking for.  You will need to provide your signature for the increased insurance that I was required to take out for this tour.  I also regret to tell you that Mr Ward and Mr Underwood have informed our legal team that they are not going to cover the increased cost for the travel insurance.

Apple Coren moves out of the large walk in closet that is on the opposite side of the bed with an armful of scraps of clothes and swimwear.  She glares at Ivy who shrinks slightly under the glare.  Apple lets the armful drop into an open suitcase before crossing her arms over her chest and raising one perfect eyebrow in question.

Apple Coren:  Are you trying to tell me that the bosses are putting us wrestlers in harms way and are not covering the increase in insurance.  What pray tell will happen should that Hurricane Dalton that is building up in the Caribbean causes us to be injured or worse, break a nail?

The sarcasm is thick as Apple tilts her head inquiringly.  Ivy shrugs as she doesn’t have any answers to Apple’s question.  Instead, she moves to the side of the bed opposite Apple and then pulling the luggage towards herself, she begins to fold the clothing and straightening up the bag for Apple who now begins to pace.  

Ivy the Assistant:  One supposes ma’am that one would purchase extra insurance like you did.  Besides, the first stop on the tour is in Aruba and that is well out of the path of Dorian.

Apple Coren:  Dorian?  Who is Dorian and why are we out of the path of him?

Ivy laughs at the comment not seeing that Apple had been serious.  Apple huffs angrily getting Ivy’s attention.  Realizing that Apple is serious, the smile leaves Ivy’s face as she struggles to answer without angering Lady Coren.

Ivy the Assistant:  The Hurricane is named Dorian, not Dalton.  I beg your pardon, I thought that you were tugging at me leg when you didn’t know who Dorian was.

Apple Coren: Of course I was because I knew that the Hurricane was Dorian not Dalton.  So I suppose we will just have to worry that the colonies aren’t hit too hard while we are there.  

Apple waves off her mistake as Ivy finishes the clothing in the first suitcase then moves slightly to pick up a piece of a swimsuit    

Ivy the Assistant:  I am sure that everything will be all right milady.  They will make sure that you are taken care of in Aruba.

Apple Coren:  So I suppose we will just have to worry that the colonies aren’t hit too hard while we are there.  Do you suppose we will have to remain in the islands for the whole tour?

Ivy the Assistant: I would say that yes we will have to remain on tour with the rest.  Your father has indicated that you will not have the ability to fly back and forth as he will need to use the plane himself over the tour dates.  It is commercial for us during the Paradise Lost tour.

Apple stops and acts faint as she collapses on the settee with one hand going to her forehead in a dramatic fashion as she sighs. Ivy looks on in concern.

Ivy the Assistant:  Milady?

Apple Coren:  You have just said that we are going to have to mingle with the unwashed masses on this tour.  If that is the case, I need you to go to the shops and prepare for me a rather large purchase of antibacterial lotion, breath mints and noise cancelling headphones.  Put it on Daddy’s credit card and hurry back so we can pack and be on our way to Aruba.  At least I will get one or two days of sun if I can.

Ivy the Assistant:  Very good ma’am.  I suggest while I’m out, you talk about your opponent or at least find out who she is.  

Ivy gets to her feet and moves towards the door turning back to call out to her boss.

Ivy the Assistant:  You are facing newcomer Bella Madison by the way.

Apple Coren: Another rookie?  Good lord save me from new bombshells.  What does Christian Underwood and Mark Ward think I am good for?  Once again punishing me by making me put a debuting bombshell through the wringer.  I can’t be arsed to talk about her now because I need to get this packing finished.  So…  

*SNAP*

The view changes to show the beachside cabanas of the Aruba Ritz Carleton where Apple Coren is seen in a revealing bikini as she soaks in the sun of the Caribbean.  The camera moves closer which prompts her to rise slightly and smile at the camera as she reaches for the silvered shades that hide her eyes.  She puts them to the side as she begins to speak.

Apple Coren: Here I am enjoying the sun and surf of Aruba and I have yet to hear from my opponent.  I don’t know whether it is because she is scared or that she is smart enough to know that she doesn’t stand a chance in the ring with me considering that I am invigorated to know that I am moving on in the division with my eyes set on the heights of championship gold.  Now don’t get me wrong, I am not pathetic enough like some of the other bombshells in the division who seem to think that if they whine or speak up about deserving the title shots without earning them.  Of course people will say that I do that but never once have I asked or demanded or begged for a shot nor will I because I am better than that.

Brushing a hand through her dark curls as she then tosses her head as a drink is set beside her on the small table by a young man who smiles.  She waves him off with a smile and a wink then Apple brings the straw to her lips and takes a small sip of the frosty drink before beginning to speak again.

Apple Coren: This week I am facing a debuting Bella Madison who seems to be rather silent on her debut against yours truly.  Now maybe my reputation has proceded me which has her struck dumb in fear or she is someone that can’t string two words together to speak about her match or opponent.  And if that is the case, her career choice leaves much to be desired if you ask me.  

Sighing, she sips again at the straw before setting the glass to the side.

Apple Coren: So rather than wasting time wondering just what it is that has her so silent, let me just tell you right now what I have planned for that match against Bella.  And believe me, I do have some definite plans for this match.

Apple’s lips curl in a sneer as she brings her hair over one shoulder then leans back into the chaise.  

Apple Coren: My plan is to win, simple as.  Oh sure I am quite certain there will be myriad bombshells who will tell you that I couldn’t win if I was in a match with myself but I need to let you know that I have decided that I am done being the source of all that contempt and prove once and for all that when I put my mind to something, I am undefeatable.  And it is going to start this week at Climax Control when I face Bella Madison.  Sadly, it means that Bella will begin her career in SCW with a loss.  And with that, I am bored and am finished talking until Climax Control.  It has been your pleasure I am sure.

Dismissing the cameraman who had been filming her, she pulls the silvered glasses from the table and slides them over her eyes  and begins to ignore any and every one as the view is obscured by the bright glare of sunlight off the white sands.

 The image of Apple Coren can be seen in a mirror, the camera held in the hands of Ivy seen behind her.  Apple turns her head this way and that to check on the marks that shadow her face and neck.  One hand reaches up to trace the faint shadow of a bruise on her cheek then trails downward to the red marks still bright on her neck.

Apple Coren:  How dare she!  Laying hands on me like that!  I tell you Ivy, one should not have to worry about the jealous nobodies attacking one backstage.

Ivy can be heard to tsk sympathetically from behind the camera.  Apple turns and nods angrily in agreement with the sympathy before turning back again to the mirror and reaches for a small bottle of foundation that she shakes.

Apple Coren:  She had some nerve to get in my face like that.  But you know I put her on notice that should she step up to me expecting me to back down like some scared little git, she has another thing coming.  If one wants to make a statement, one must do it with an audience to see one humiliate one’s victim.

Ivy smiles slightly behind the back of Apple, her eyes lighting up slightly as she thinks back to Climax Control where the pair had engaged in a rough and tumble fight backstage.  Apple watches her in the mirror, her eyes narrowing slightly as Ivy begins to speak.

Ivy the Assistant:  You certainly made a statement with Amy Santino.  The only thing that bothers me is how she managed to get you in that strangle hold with the curtain from the shower.  I was so worried for you milady.

Apple’s eyes widen once she realizes that Ivy was talking about her rather than for Amy.  She lets a slow half grin cross her face as she presses down on the top of the foundation, a light creamy dollop landing on the back of her hand.  Setting down the bottle, she reaches across with her now free hand to the foundation brush nearby that she dips into the foundation on her hand.  Bringing it up to her cheekbone where she stipples it against the bruise that is fading there, watching to make sure it is covered.  Evening out the layer of makeup, Apple strokes the makeup downward to cover the red marks as well.  Those are not covered as well which prompts Apple to toss her brush angrily against the mirror leaving a splatter of foundation.

Ivy the Assistant:  Ma’am, you should not get worked up.  Tonight is a night where you will need to prove to the dowager and your father that you are still in control of your temper.  After all, your father had no problem pulling you away from the company before, do not give him reason to do it again.

Apple sighs, remembering that her father had given her the ultimatum when he had pulled her out of Sin City Wrestling before.

Apple slumped in the seat of the plane that her father had chartered to come and get her.  Behind her, Ivy was stowing her luggage into the compartment for it as her father sat in the seat opposite Apple and leaning his elbows on the rests on both sides of the seat, he steeples his fingers as he glares at his daughter.

Lord Coren:  Apple, quit pouting like a prat.  You know you are still a lady of the United Kingdom and I for one believe you need to start acting like it.

Apple Coren:  I do act like it Father.  I do not forget for one moment who I am and just because I am a lady, it doesn’t mean that I can’t be a wrestler.  You embarrassed me back there!

Crossing her arms over her chest, she regains the pout on her lips as she turns her head slightly from her father.  Still angry, Lord Coren leans forward to address his daughter.

Lord Coren:  You are underage Apple and as such, I still have a say in what you are doing.  Once you reach eighteen, you will be able to do what you want legally…

Apple looks up at her father, a smirk breaking across her face as she interrupts.

Apple Coren:  And I will immediately sign a contract once more.

Lord Coren rolls his eyes as he sits back but holds up a finger to stop his daughter from talking.

Lord Coren:  Be that as it may, you will also realize that I will retain control over your finances until your twenty fifth birthday and if you continue to act like a spoiled brat in front of me or worse yet, your grandmother, I will cut you off without a cent.

The ultimatum has Apple widening her eyes in surprise as her father offers her a tight smug smirk of his own.  Swallowing with difficulty, Apple nods slowly.  

Apple Coren:  Fine.  I accept your terms Father.  I will no longer have temper tantrums in front of you or Gran.  Promise…

Apple holds out her hand to her father who takes it and the pair shake to cement the promise.

Apple looks at Ivy in the mirror who is still filming but now is not looking into the viewfinder of the camera but at Apple herself.  Apple smiles at her assistant then looks at the clothes that are hanging in preparation for the family dinner that Apple is home for.  The low cut dress of watered scarlet silk floats on the slight breeze in the room but with a sigh, Apple puts her hands on the dressing table and rises slowly to reveal herself in a pair of dark stockings with crimson garters, and a matching bra peeking out from the opening of a rose red satin dressing coat.  Moving towards the dress, Apple pulls it off the rack that it is hanging on and holds it up in front of her and turns to the mirror to see that it will not cover her neck.

Apple Coren:  If Father or Gran sees my neck, there will go any chance of me getting away with keeping my temper when I will have to defend my wrestling.  And if he prevents me from getting my chance to give Amy a thorough caning, I will lose it all.  My temper, my legacy…EVERYTHING!

Ivy moves to set the camera down on the dressing table, adjusting it to continue filming Apple who lets the dress hang from her hand once more.  Ivy reaches Apple and taking the dress from her limp fingers, she moves towards the large walk in closet that is the room that adjoins Apple’s room at the Coren estate and then can be heard to speak from there as Apple once more sits down.  Now the camera can only pick up the sound of voices as Apple sets something down in front of the lens.

Ivy the Assistant:  You know milady, you have many dresses that would work for tonight’s dinner that covers your neck.  Why not wear one of those.

Apple Coren:  This is a family dinner and then a social gathering of my Father’s cronies and their dull as dirt wives.  You better believe that I will keep my temper and smile but when tonight is done, I am going to go back to America to prepare to face that git Amy at Blaze of Glory.  Speaking of, you have confirmed that I will be doing that?

Ivy the Assistant:  I have confirmed that you will be facing Amy Santino in a match at the supercard.  I have the contract all ready to sign.  It is on your desk.

Suddenly, the item is pulled from the lens to reveal Ivy standing behind Apple, a high necked dress of black lace overlaying a crimson velvet sweetheart neckline held up for approval.  Apple turns to take in the clothing and a smile moves across her lips.

Apple Coren:  That looks perfect Ivy, you know me too well.  Let’s get ready and join Father Dearest and Gran and their guests for dinner.

Apple moves towards Ivy and taking the dress from her, moves behind a screen to peel off the dressing robe and slide the dress over her form.  Stepping from behind the screen after a few moments, she has the dress on but open at the neck.  Stepping in front of Ivy, Apple turns to pull her long dark curls over her shoulder.

Apple Coren:  Can you please help with the fastening of the neck please?

Ivy nods and reaches up to caress her fingers over the lace as she searches for the hook and eye closure.  Apple waits impatiently, her stockinged foot tapping against the thick oriental carpet of her room.  Finally Ivy steps back as Apple reaches up to check that the collar has covered the red marks on her neck.  Seeing the black lace conceal the marks, she moves to where a pair of heels can be seen, one laying on its side, the other ready to slip on.  Apple puts on one then reaches out for help from Ivy who steadies her to put on the other.  

Ivy the Assistant:  Have a good time tonight milady.  I will be below stairs if you need me.

Apple waves in response to Ivy’s comment as she takes one final look in the mirror to make sure that the dress is flawless before picking up a bottle of scent that she sprays on liberally.  The haunting scent of Joy de Jean Patou hangs in the air as straightening up, she twists her neck and smiles at the image of herself in the mirror.  Backing away, she turns and disappears through the door of her rooms.

A couple of hours later, Apple can be seen perched on the edge of a table as she takes in the group of people in the room.  A crystal glass of liquid is in her hand, barely sipped as she looks over the room and sees a man moving towards her.  The young man offers a smile to her as he cants his hip against the wall beside the table where Apple is perched.

Young Man:  I saw you looking at me and came to introduce myself.  You looked rather lonely.

Apple sips at her drink ignoring him as she continues to take in the people in the room.  The man moves closer and then leans in to speak again.

Young Man:  I’m the son of Lord…

Apple holds up her hand to stop him from talking.  Taken by surprise, the man stops talking.  

Apple Coren:  I neither know or care who you are.  I am here because my father decided that I was to be present to show off his little girl for the pleasure of watching me interact with boors like you with a smile.

Noting her father watching her, she smiles and rises her drink to him as he returns the motion and turns back to talk to some lady of someplace no one has heard of.  Apple’s smile fades slightly as she brings the crystal glass to her lips muttering as she does.

Apple Coren:  You can go now, your presences is dancing all over my last nerve.

Young Man:  But your fath…

Apple Coren:  Go before I show you the difference between a wristwatch and a wristlock.

Taken aback, the young man walks away puzzled as he goes in the opposite direction.  Apple toasts his back and sips at the drink once more before she is surprised by the image of Ivy standing in the doorway motioning for her to join her.  Raising one eyebrow, Apple turns and sets the glass on the table and makes her way towards Ivy.  Every so often she is stopped by someone who offers her a comment or a hug.  Finally making it to Ivy’s side, Apple turns to look into the room at the guests and offers the room a smile as she leans slightly towards Ivy.

Apple Coren:  You look worried Ivy, anything wrong?

Ivy bites her lip and nods as she turns her head towards Apple.  

Ivy the Assistant:  If you consider having to team with Amy Santino wrong then there is something terribly wrong.  

Apple’s smile freezes on her face as she links arms with Ivy and the pair walk away from the door and towards the stairs.  As the two climb, Lord Coren appears in the hall to look up at the two women.

Lord Coren:  Going somewhere Princess?

Apple stops and plants a smile on her face and turns to address her father.

Apple Coren:  I forgot I had to speak to Ms Willow about the match coming up at Climax Control and we had made arrangements to have an interview via facetime.  Please extend my apologies to your guests Father.

Not waiting for a comment from him, she turns and heads upstairs once more trailed by Ivy.  The pair slam into Apple’s rooms with her ladyship tossing herself onto the bed and gives Ivy an irate look.

Apple Coren:  Explain how I am teaming with THAT woman.

Ivy opens her laptop and the email from the company and turns it to Apple.

Ivy the Assistant:  I received this email that shows you are teaming with Amy against charlotte Elliot and Winter in a tag match at Climax Control that will lead into Blaze of Glory.  Seems that management wants to have you two tag and Charlotte and Winter who are also in a match at the supercard.  I suppose it is for ratings because after the fight that you had with her, they want to see if you can co exist I wouldn’t wonder.  After all, I suspect they are expecting you to walk away and let Amy suffer.

Apple Coren:  I should but rather than do that I should prove to her that I am more of a threat than she can imagine.  I know that I have better things to do than carry her sorry rear.  Oh and I am probably the last person that she would want to team with considering that I am rather fond of her husband.  Or rather, having the attention of her husband which if I am honest is getting into the head of hers.

Ivy the Assistant:  But milady, you are teaming with her against Charlotte Elliot and Winter.

Apple scoffs at the mention of her opponents.

Apple Coren:  Really Ivy, Charlotte Elliot is nothing but a total bird that has nothing going for her.  I mean really, only thing that she is good for is beating down mugs and her partner, if I can call her that isn’t much better.  So, in reality, why am I worrying over nothing?

Apple’s mood lightens as she sits up once more.  Giving Ivy a slow nod, she gets to her feet and moves towards the screen where she reaches up to open the lace neck of the dress.

Apple Coren:  I think we have earned a night out at the pub.  Because if you believe that I am going to go back downstairs with the Downton Abbey set, you are daft.  

The sound of the door of Apple’s closet is heard as the scantily clad lady moves to grab a pair of dark denims and a sapphire blue midriff shirt with a silver spray of stars down one shoulder.  Dressing quickly, Apple moves around the screen and grabs a pair of knee high boots.  Holding a finger to her lips, she moves to the doorway to listen for her father.  Hearing the party spilling out into the hallway, Apple rolls her eyes and moves to the fireplace and pulls at a sconce to reveal a small door that leads to a staircase.

Ivy the Assistant:  A hidden escape?

Apple Coren:  Of course…how do you suppose I was able to be the rebel my father thought I was?

The pair move through the door that closes behind them to hide them from view.

<img src=http://i62.tinypic.com/2zdu9g5.jpg>

Final words, that is what I have decided to do right now because in only days, I will have to team with someone that I am going to beat at the supercard to face two rather second-rate wrestlers who will be looking to beat the hell out of each other as well.

What’s a girl to do?

Firstly, I suppose that I will have to address Winter and Charlotte Elliot.  Ladies…if I can call you that…I would rather ignore you like the dirt under my shoes but I realize that both of you are rather well versed in tag matches.  And what I mean by that is that you are very content to ride the skills of your partners but one does have to wonder, which of you will be carrying your team?  Will Winter let Charlotte do all the heavy lifting like the beast of burden she resembles or will Charlotte leave Winter to suffer in the cold of a ring that she has no chance of leaving with a win.  

Secondly, Amy Santino, I want you to know that I am not going to leave you to suffer with a partner that has no intention of having your back.  Just because I owe you the beating of a lifetime, I am not adverse to carrying your sorry arse to a win for our team.  But once our hands are raised in victory, that hand that the referee holds up will be brought down on your head just as easily at the supercard.

And thirdly, I am ready to completely dominate this match because if you believe everyone else, they underestimate me because of the silver spoon that I was born with in my mouth.  And that is the wrong thing to do in this world.  I may not have earned my title but I have earned a reputation of being able to set my mind to beating down anyone that I so desired so enjoy this period of teamship because in a couple of weeks at Blaze of Glory, it will be you and I in the ring Amy and that is where you are going to suffer badly at my hand.

So Sunday will be the first step in the tag match against Charlotte and Winter then will be the chance for redemption for me in the ring by beating you bloody Amy.

 The small opulent space filled with natural sunlight has a woman dressed in a rather short soft heather coloured tweed dress with a pair of maryjanes on her feet standing beside an older female in a black silk blouse who has a crocheted blanket over her knees as she sips from a small teacup.  The soft waft of tea rises on the steam from the cup, the spice of chai mixing with the smell of rose water and talc from the older lady.  

Intent on the view from the large windows, Lady Apple Coren doesn’t register the soft cough from the older lady.  Not stopping, the lady taps at the arm of Apple which gets her attention which she turns to the lade on the chair with a half-smile and a quirked eyebrow.

Apple Coren:   I’m sorry Gran, did you say something?

The older lady reaches out to set the porcelain cup on the Louis Quatorze table and then folds her hands in her lap.  Lady Cecilie Coren offers her granddaughter a nod as she turns slightly to take in the young woman.

Lady Cecilie:   Not for the moment but I do have to ask what madcap scheme are you up to now?  Your father told me that you are wrestling of all things?  You who is heiress to this estate and all that it entails.  My dearest, what could have possessed you to do this.  When I was a girl, we rebelled by wearing shorter skirts and teasing our hair.  We didn’t act out like how you are doing.

Apple couldn’t help but smile at the image her grandmother provided.  The older lady snorted in a rather ladylike way that only prompted a snort from Apple in return.  

Apple Coren:   Gran it isn’t like I have to rebel.  But one has to do what one must to make one feel accomplished…

Lady Cecilie:   But wrestling Apple, really?  

Apple Coren:   But I am good at it Gran.  Besides, I have had enough of society and listening to all those debs rant on about clothes and which boy is the most eligible for consideration for the less beautiful but rich girls.  Between you and me Gran, I think that working out my aggressive impulses has saved the Coren name more than I could have sitting in London and waiting for the Season to provide me some kind of boredom relief.  

Apple moves the chair to the other side of the tea table where she reaches for the teapot that is covered with a lacy tea cozy that has the family crest on it.  Picking it up, Apple pours herself a cuppa then picking up the saucer, picks up the cup and brings it to her lips.  The hot liquid bathes her face in spicy steam as she sips a small taste of the tea then sets the cup back into the matching saucer.  

Over the table, the older lady sighs as if the end of the world was in moments.  Apple watches as she lets her shoulders droop for a moment.  As she does, the butler moves into the room with a stiff look for the dowager and a wink for Apple.

Butler:   Lady Cecilie, there is a call on your telephone from a Lady Barrington who says that you have an appointment with her about the Halloween charity event the two of you are organizing for the weekend.  

Lady Cecilie perks up as she turns to Apple, a condescending smile on her face as she plucks the blanket from her knees and moves towards the door.  Stopping, she turns and points at Apple who is once more sipping at the tea in her cup.  

Lady Cecilie:   You my dearest remain here, we are far from finished with our discussion.   I will return momentarily.

Disappearing through the double doors, the dowager can be heard to command that the butler then close the doors behind her to keep Apple in the room.  Apple winks at the butler as he shuts the doors.  After the final sip of the tea, the young woman sets the cup on the table and leans back in the chair, her fingers steepling over her lips as she ponders the chinwag that she is going to have to endure when her grandmother returns.  

Suddenly a sound can be heard, muffled because it is hidden.  Apple straightens quickly then rushes to a pile of jacket mixed with her Louis Vuitton clutch that she opens quickly.  The sound gets louder as she pulls out a cell phone and swipes quickly as she answers.

Apple Coren:   Hello, this is Apple Coren, speak.

The screen lights up with an image of Ivy who can be seen, her hair frazzled as the crowd behind her can be seen.  In the shops, Ivy holds up a bottle of something green as she smiles.  

Ivy the Assistant:   I got the last bottle ma’am!  I will be back at the castle in no time however, I did want to remind you that you do have that interview with Ms Willow in…

Ivy looks down at the hand holding the bottle where a simple wrist watch is resting.  

Ivy the Assistant:   Actually ma’am, Ms Willow should be calling right about now…

As Ivy says that, a beep is heard from the cell phone and the image of Pussy Willow can be seen on the face of the phone.  Apple sighs and swipes the call from Ivy away as she then presses answer on the call with the interviewer.  When Pussy appears on the screen, she offers Lady Apple a smile which fades as she appears to take in the look on Apple’s face.

Pussy Willow:  Lady Apple!?  Did you forget that we had an interview scheduled for today?  I booked it with your assistant Ivy after the show last week.

Apple Coren:   Of course I remembered our interview but I seem to remember you were to contact me earlier.

Pussy looks confused as she checks her notes.

Pussy Willow:  I was sure I got the time difference right…you are seven hours ahead and it is ten and…

Apple gets a very bored look on her face as she sets up the cell phone on the table beside the tea pot.  

Apple Coren:   Ms Willow, nevermind about your math, just let’s get this interview done.  My grandmother is visiting and one does not make Lady Cecilie Coren waiting, especially family.  So Ms Willow, ask your questions and then I won’t disappoint the dowager.

The sound of rustling papers can be heard not seen as Pussy gets her notes in order and then smiles at Apple.  The young Englishwoman rolls her eyes as Pussy’s smile fades only slightly as she looks down.

Pussy Willow:  I guess the first question I have to ask is what did you do to get a title shot against Dani Weston at the supercard High Stakes?

Apple can’t believe her ears as her eyebrows knit together in surprise.  Puusy looks up as Apple begins to reply.

Apple Coren:   Well Ms Willow, I only responded to the open challenge that Danielle Weston decided to put out there because she wants to be seen as a fighting champion.  And in all honesty, I felt that she somehow directed that challenge at myself because I am the only competition that she seems to think is in Sin City Wrestling that is not one of her little friends.  Friends who obviously wants to give Dani the pat on the head a little yippy puppy needs by not challenging her.  Seriously, if you ask me the only fight she has in her is the fact she has to fight to appear like she is a worthy champion.  

Pussy Willow:  But she did beat some very strong wrestlers in the Goldrush tournament.  And then did beat Mikah for the title.

Apple Coren:   Oh yes, she beat Mikah for the title.  My god, at that point, Mikah was only a shadow of the champion she was in the past.  Even Jessie Salco could have beat Mikah at that time.  So brava Dani, you beat a has been on her last legs and now you will have to face a real challenge at High Stakes who is going to take your title whether you like it or not.

Apple takes a self-satisfied breath as Pussy nods slowly before changing her line of questioning.

Pussy Willow:  Well this week in the last show before the High Stakes supercard, you will have to find some way to work together as management has you teaming with Dani Weston to face Crystal Hilton and her wife Seleana Zdunich.  Do you think that the two of you will be able to coexist in that match?  After all, most people will be expecting you to leave Dani to her fate against the pair.

Apple Coren:   Now would I do something like that Ms Willow?

Pussy Willow:  Well given your attitude…

Apple’s eyes widen then narrow in anger.  Pussy gives her a worried look as the younger lady lets a cynical smirk begin to creep across her lips.  

Apple Coren:   Now Ms Willow, one can not think that I would ever let her down like that.  Considering that she is very lucky to be teamed with me when it comes to this match.  I mean really, Danielle Weston can thank her lucky stars that I am there to carry our team to victory.  And I won’t begrudge her that win, because you see, I will be the one winning the match for our team.  And whether she thinks that she stands a fighting chance, the truth is she is more liability than champion for me in that match.  

Pussy Willow:  But she is the champion!

Apple Coren:   For now.  Next question please.

Totally tossing aside the last comment from Pussy, Apple reaches to the pot and pours another tea.  Picking up the delicate cup, Apple sips as she waits for the question which isn’t slow in being asked.

Pussy Willow:  This week, you are teaming with Dani Weston…

Apple Coren:   You mentioned that already Ms Willow.

Pussy Willow:  Mmhmm..you are teaming with her to face Seleana Zdunich and her wife, Crystal Hilton Zdunich…

Apple sets the cup down in the saucer and leans towards the phone with an inquiring look as she interrupts Pussy once more.

Apple Coren:   Zdunich…that name sounds familiar…Like I have heard it somewhere before.  Hmmm…I wonder where?  Oh of course, wasn’t it Seleana Zdunich that I faced in my first match ever in Sin City Wrestling?  

Pussy Willow:  Um, let me check.  Yes, your first opponent in SCW was Seleana.

Apple’s smirk widens as she looks into the phone.

Apple Coren:   And wasn’t she my first win in the company?  Oh how interesting this has gotten.  The very first person I faced in SCW is once again my opponent and I have to say that it making me think how fortuitous that is going to be for me.  A second win against her will only boost my confidence walking into the supercard.

Pussy Willow:  But she also holds a win over you as well and so does her wife.  Summer XXXTreme saw the pair dump you in the water for your first loss.

Again, the smirk fades slightly at Pussy’s comments as Apple waves her hand in front of her face as if to wipe away the loss.  

Apple Coren:   No matter that, it was only a one-time thing.  Because you know that with my father showing up on the cruise was a distraction and the fact that he was pressuring me to come home before I became the superstar that I was meant to be.

Pussy Willow:  Don’t you mean bombshell?  Our female wrestlers are known as bombshells.

Sighing Apple tilts her head to the side before responding with a bored voice.

Apple Coren:   Bloody hell Ms Willow, before you so unkindly interrupted me, as I was saying, the superstar BOMBSHELL I was meant to be!  But now I have signed my contract with Sin City Wrestling and my father can not stop me from rising to the top of the division.  And it begins on this show before the supercard when I have to carry my opponent for the title to a win in a tag match facing two women that are barely second thoughts let alone a challenge for me.  

Pussy Willow:  Do you trust your partner to help in this match?

Apple pauses for a moment to think of that comment then snorts in derision.

Apple Coren:   Trust my partner?  All the bombshells in SCW are jealous of me so there will be little trust involved.  As a matter of fact, the only one that I can trust in that match is myself.  Now to get back to the matter of my opponents, I don’t know if you saw it or not but Crystal and Seleana just might not be on the same page.  After the video that played on the screen at that Climax Control of Crystal shagging her ex, I have to wonder if those two are going to be on the same page.  Seriously bad form what?

A commotion from outside of the room can be heard as Apple turns to the doorway then back to the phone, and addresses Pussy with a sickly-sweet smile.

Apple Coren:   This has been quite interesting Ms Willow however, I have no time anymore to continue this chinwag so I will have to say goodbye before Gran comes back.  As always, I am sure it has been your pleasure.

Pussy Willow:  But Ap…

Apple cuts the call and smiles up at her grandmother who has come into the room once more, this time the butler helping her along as she clings to his arm.  Once he has her settled on her wingback chair, he bows himself out as the dowager turns to Apple.

Lady Cecilie:   Now Apple dearest, I was just talking with Lady Barrington and we have planned the most interesting event on the weekend and we need you to be here for it.  Now I suspect that…

Apple Coren:   I am so terribly sorry Gran but I am not going to be here on the weekend.  I have to jet to America to take part in a match for the company I wrestle for.  Do tell me how the event goes will you?

Lady Cecilie looks affronted as she can’t believe that her granddaughter has just denied her.  Sputtering her outrage, she watches as Apple gets to her feet and moves towards her, leaning down to plant a kiss on the leathery cheek of her grandmother.  

Apple Coren:   I am off to pack as I have my flight leaving soon.  I will be back after the supercard.  Daddy has arranged a place for me in America until High Stakes where I will win the title and bring it back to you.  Love you Gran!

Before the dowager can comment, Apple breezes past the butler who is bringing in more tea and cakes for Lady Cecilie who can be seen fuming.  The butler leans down and sets the tray of tea on the table and pours for the dowager.

<img src=http://canadian-spitfire.webs.com/appledivide.png>

Inside a plane that has rows of pods, a young woman is resting in the forwardmost pod, a pair of earbuds in her ears as her foot taps out the beat of the song that no one else can hear.  Beside her is Ivy, the personal assistant of Apple Coren who is the young woman in a pale blue cotton shirt over a white lace half shirt and worn denim jeans.  Ivy moves closer and taps at the stocking feet of Apple to get her attention.  Sitting up and opening her eyes, Apple shoots a look at her assistant.

Apple Coren:   What is it Ivy?  

Ivy the Assistant:   Well ma’am, I think that you should do something or talk about your match this week.  I don’t think that you have spoken much about it other than that interview with Pussy Willow.  And wouldn’t it be brilliant to talk about the match on the way to the match?  After all we are all alone here in first class…and I have a video camera!

Ivy waves the small handheld camera in the face of Apple who rolls her eyes for a moment before pulling herself up and getting comfortable in the seat.  

Apple Coren:   Fine Ivy, let’s do this little talking point and then I am going to catch a few hours for myself without the distraction of you or anything wrestling.

Ivy nods as she moves to face Apple and begins to record, pointing her finger silently at Apple who begins to speak softly, her hands knit together over a barely covered midsection, her elbows resting lightly on either armrest.

Apple Coren:   Here I am on my way to Climax Control and my assistant seems to think that I have not said enough about my match this week on the show.  Well, since she seems to think that I need to say more, here are my last words on the subject before Sunday night.

Ivy holds up her thumb in approval as Apple begins to speak.

Apple Coren:   This week I am in the main event of Climax Control, a match I should have been before this, and it is a match that I never suspected that I would have to participate in.  You see, it is a tag match that has me having to carry Dani Weston against Crystal Hilton and her wife Seleana Zdunich.  Now I have had to ask myself just why management wanted me to have to face the pair of them and partnering with the person who I am going to be taking the title from in a little under three weeks.

Apple begins to get a thoughtful look as she contemplates the match.

Apple Coren:   If I am honest, I really could care less on who I am teamed with or who I am facing considering that I have every confidence that I will prevail in this match.  But let us talk about the match since we all know that if I don’t, I will never hear the end of the bragging that will be done by my opponents if on the very off chance they win or from my partner claiming she won the match for us.

Apple’s eyes light up slightly as she leans up and with her elbows still on the armrests, she steeples her fingers and points them at the camera.

Apple Coren:   First we have Seleana Zdunich, the cat that was declawed in my first match in Sin City Wrestling.  Only now, this kitten is a married woman who just had the misfortune to watch as her marriage imploded on screen at a Climax Control thanks to the stupidity of her wife meeting with her ex to do something about Kate Steele.  Now as much as I want to tell you that I am sorry that you have to deal with this, I can’t just form the words because I have always been someone that speaks the truth and the truth is, I do not care at all.  Now before you say that it is heartless, I want you to realize, your little life has no significance for me so why bother hmm?

Chuckling, Apple again leans back and she then raises one finger before turning the subject to her other opponent.

Apple Coren:   Then we have Crystal Hilton, Zdunich, whoever she seems to think she is this week.  Now we know she is a former champion and that she will tell each and everyone how good she is then change emotionally as easily as a hooker changes clothes.  And recently she was caught on camera doing the nasty with her ex husband when she went to him about their child.  If it was me, I would have done all my talking in a vertical position behind a telephone screen with my ex.  But I guess that day she was lonely or desperate or something to have done the horizontal conference with her ex.  If you ask me, I think she just couldn’t help herself.  After all Crystal has impulse control problems and I am sure that in our match she is going to be the one that is the most unpredictable.  Which surprisingly makes her the most predictable.

This produces a laugh from Apple as Ivy shoots her a surprised look.  

Apple Coren:   Oh please Ivy, watching you is making me laugh because you seem to genuinely seem to think that Crystal and Seleana stand a chance against Danielle and I.  Now if I was a betting person, I would indeed favour my odds in this match because my opponents are not ready really to deal with the level of competition that Ms Weston and I can produce in this match.  And we will you know.

Ivy the Assistant:   You mean you are not going to leave Dani Weston by herself in the match?

Apple Coren:   Of course not Ivy.  I am the one that she will be depending on to win this match for us.  And I am sure she is talking a great game and all but when push comes to shove, she is just like Crystal Hilton with the whole attitude thing.  I mean she appears to be oh so sweet and innocent and if you listen to her, she is more of a victim than she would wish you to know.  But talking a good game and actually backing it up, those are two different things.

Apple Coren:   You see, I know that Dani really hasn’t had any competition for that title and so she can sound like a champion and she can carry around that title and say she is a champion but there really hasn’t been anyone that could be the challenge she claims to want.  Well, challenge accepted by yours truly and until the supercard, I have to give her my support as a tag team partner.  Granted, I will require some promise of being able to trust that she won’t run away at the first sign of possibly losing the match.  I am there to get the win and trust me I won’t leave that ring until my arm is raised in victory and if that means beating Seleana, Crystal AND Dani then that is what I am going to be doing at Climax Control.

Ivy once more gives Apple a thumbs up as she films her boss for her last comments.

Apple Coren:   And let me leave you with these final words.  On Sunday night I will be stepping into that ring with one purpose and that is to beat the bloody hell out of Crystal and Seleana to send a message to my partner of the night.  I am going to leave her no doubt that I will be beating her for her title at High Stakes.  So she will need to be prepared to watch as I make examples of our opponents on my way to taking her Bombshell world title.

Apple stops and looks up at Ivy.

Apple Coren:   I am done Ivy, now toddle off while I relax for the rest of the flight.  

Sitting back once more, Apple adjusts the seat into a more comfortable position before repositioning the earbuds and reaching for an Ipad that is resting nearby and swiping across it to log in.  Ivy meanwhile moves across the aisle to another pod and then opens a laptop to upload the video before she begins to stream it online.  The last image seen is the upload bar indicating the upload is almost complete as a stewardess leans over the pod where Apple is and setting down a small cup of an amber liquid and a plate of small pieces of chocolate to the delight of the young lady.

  The door to a rather large room swings inward as a young woman carrying a handful of papers in her hands that has her attention.  Behind her, a young woman confidently walks into the room, her hands working off the pair of dark riding gloves before she tosses them towards the woman who has put down the papers and looked up at the brunette.  Ivy bobbles both gloves and catches them to pull them close to her chest.  Lady Apple Coren in a rather tight pair of riding pants and silk blouse under a dark suede jacket doesn’t even glance at the woman as she moves to a bar to splash a liquid from a crystal decanter that sends rainbows sparkling around the room before setting it back down and strutting to a large curved sectional where she sits back.  Ivy lays the gloves on the table inside of the door then turns to Apple before picking up a blinking cell phone and a closed ipad that she flips open with one hand and moves to perch on the edge of the chair facing the young lady.  

Ivy the Assistant: As you requested earlier I have your diary right here my lady.  Later this afternoon you have a fitting with the dressmaker for your come out ball gown.  Then you have a dinner invitation with your father…oh wait…  

Ivy checks on the blinking phone where multiple emails can be seen on the screen she swipes at.  Sitting there, Apple takes in the slight gold colour of the wine in her glass without looking at the phone.  

Apple Coren:  You don’t have to say it Ivy, Daddy dearest has a very important meeting in London and begs for a rain cheque.  As per usual I am sure.  

Ivy the Assistant:  But my lady, your father is quite busy.  His job means that he is front and center for…  

Apple Coren:  Please Ivy, he doesn’t need to have you defend him.  He gets off on the use of his name and title.  They don’t call him Whiskey Wills for nothing you know.  Besides, I really wasn’t wanting to dine with him either if I’m honest.  So if that frees up my evening, let’s make plans to go to the pub and judge people while they scream over the world cup.

Ivy the Assistant:  I am sorry my lady but you are not free this evening as you have a skype interview for that wrestling company you work for now.  A Miss Pussy Willow is going to be calling an hour after your fitting for your gown.  

Apple doesn’t seem to react as she sips at the wine and then leans forward to set the glass on the dark wood of the accent table in front of her.  

Apple Coren:  So the night of slumming is out then?

Ivy the Assistant: I am afraid so.

Apple Coren:  Bollocks!    

As the word escapes her, the butler in a stuffy starched suit steps into the room to announce the dressmaker was waiting for her ladyship in her room.  Apple smiles at the butler and pushes herself off the sectional to move towards the door, stopping to motion for Ivy who grabs her ipad and phone and follows quickly.  Moments later, Apple walks into a room that is dominated by a large four poster bed with a rich red satin duvet and matching curtains surrounding it.  Resting across the bed is an elegant aquamarine gown that has a slight shimmer in the material that is caused by the dying light from outside.  Standing beside the bed, the dressmaker and her assistant wait nervously for the reaction from Apple who advances to the bed.  

Apple Coren :  I do hope you have captured the look that I am going for.  Elegant with a touch of scandalous.

Pulling off the riding jacket, and tossing it to the side, Apple’s hands reach upward, her fingers toying with the buttons of her blouse as she turns and walks towards a folded rice paper screen with a painting of the estate done in watercolour across the panels.  Standing behind it with just enough backlight to tantalize, Apple removes her blouse and lets it drape over the frame and motions with her hand to have the dress brought to her.  The dressmaker snaps her finger to send her assistant scrambling to carry the dress to the young aristocrat and help her put it on.  The dressmaker’s assistant holds up the dress as Apple grabs the hem and tosses it over her dark head and wiggles her way into the garment.    

Apple Coren:  I say, you did excellent work this time.  

Apple steps out from behind the screen and moves to the large mirror to one side of the fireplace in her room.  Holding out her arms, she spins slowly in the silken organza dress that flares ever so slightly at her ankles.  Ivy clasps both hands together in front of her, her eyes wide and her voice breathy as she begins to speak.  

Ivy the Assistant: Oh my lady, that dress is bloody brilliant!

Apple spares only a cursory glance at the gushing assistant before she turns back and gives the dressmaker a sickly patentedly poisoned smile.  

Apple Coren: It is all right I suppose but you do have to tell me if anyone else has had any notion of the lines of this dress.  I simply will not share the same look with anyone that night of my come out.

Ivy the Assistant:  That would never do will it.  I am sure the dressmaker has kept to the terms of the NDA she signed.  Haven’t you ma’am?

The dressmaker nods as she moves to make a few adjustments to the garment as Apple stands in front of the mirror and watches as the assistant takes notes as the dressmaker makes comment after comment.  Finally the fitting is done and Apple once more moves behind the screen and removes the creation and hands it to the dressmaker assistant.  Ivy had been busy picking out another outfit for her ladyship which she hands over the screen to Apple.  Pulling the clothing towards her, Apple begins to change once more as she speaks over the screen to her assistant.  

Apple Coren: I believe Ivy that you said that I will be having a rabbit with someone from Sin City wrestling?  Who is it and whyever am I wasting my time talking about what is obvious hmm?

Ivy the Assistant:  Says here my lady that you will be talking to someone named Pussy Willow.

Apple looks over the screen as she wrinkles her nose as the name of famed SCW Interviewer Pussy Willow hangs in the air.  Ivy spares a look up with a shrug as she nods much to the scorn of Apple Coren.

Apple Coren: And I suppose she is some yank that had a mother with some kind of weed fetish and a father with a love of…animals of the feral kind.  

Ivy the Assistant: I bet she was named after those pussikin bushes I have heard about in the States.

Apple gags slightly at the cutesie voice her assistant is using.  Stepping from behind the screen in just a lacy bra and a pair of leather pants that does nothing but accentuate the long legs of the young aristo, Apple lifts up the British flag tee over her head and lets it settle at her midriff.  Looking at Ivy, Apple moves to the door and stops.    

Apple Coren:  So when do we need to skype this interviewer?  I find that I am rather ready for a quick nosh before this interview and I really need to rest before I have to begin packing for my trip to Texas for this next show.  By the way, have you noted that in my diary and have you made the arrangements for the flight there?

Ivy scrambles with the Ipad, her fingers swiping quickly across the screen.  

Apple Coren :  Oh nevermind Ivy, I am sure you will make sure that is all taken care of for me.   Now I am ready to head to the sitting room for this Skype thing.  On your way down there, please do go belowstairs and bring me a snack.  I will meet you in the Rose sitting room.

Apple sweeps out of the room and moves towards the large staircase.  Ivy follows behind, passing Apple to head towards the servants’ stair.  Apple softly hums as her hand glides along the railing of the staircase as she moves downwards and then disappears through a doorway that takes her towards another part of the house.  

<img src=http://canadian-spitfire.webs.com/appledivide.png>

Apple Coren is resting on a chaise as she nibbles on a small blini with a small scoop of caviar.  Beside her is Ivy who is setting up the Skype on a laptop that is sitting near a rather large screened television.  A black cable runs between the laptop and the screen while a camera is focused on Apple who spares a glance at the television then ignores it once more.  Finally, a Skype window lights up on the screen with a window in window look of Apple as she tugs lightly on the tee and fluffs her hair.  Suddenly the sound of a ring from the screen is heard as Ivy nods towards Apple and presses answer on the laptop.  The image of Pussy Willow fills the screen.  

Pussy Willow:  Ummm hello?

Her voice is slightly intimidated as she takes in the white rose and gold accents of a large fireplace behind Apple who offers Pussy a tight smile as she addresses the image of Pussy.    

Apple Coren:  It is a pleasure Ms Willow I am sure.  

Pussy Willow:  You can call me Pussy.

The smile fades slightly as Apple replies through her teeth.  

Apple Coren:  I could but heaven forbid.  So Ms Willow, I am given to understand I have to do this interview to introduce myself to the fans of Sin City Wrestling?  I thought I did that when I first came to a show.  I am sure that they already know just who I am and I suppose that I really don’t care if they do know me.  All I care about is the battle.  It is a bit of a lark you might say.  

Apple’s smile again brightens as she reaches for a cut crystal glass that holds a dark amber liquid.  Ivy holds up her thumb in support that Apple waves off while Pussy is speaking.  

Pussy Willow:  I guess then that question can’t be asked.  Okay, so tell me Apple why you decided to join SCW?  

Apple Coren: Growing up Ms Willow…

Pussy Willow: It’s Pussy

Apple glares at the screen for a moment before continuing as if Pussy hadn’t interrupted her.  

Apple Coren:  As I was saying, I grew up here in this estate after my mother passed and my father became the eligible darling of the jetset.  You would suspect that with the boarding schools and rich life I lead I wouldn’t dare dirty my fingers with something as low as wrestling.  But then Davis…he is the butler…he would bring me belowstairs and while he worked he set me before the television where he would watch wrestling.  Of course at the time, women were just starting to become mainstream and not just the sideshow entertainment.  I fell in love with wrestling when I was watching it.  After a while, I decided to join this small little training school in Blackpool during my gap year.  Daddy thought I was busy doing something for the little people in some forsaken town but no, I was learning what I needed to become a wrestler.  And I am not one to brag but my teacher said I had talent and well the rest is history.  

Pussy Willow:  So you are just out of this training school and you decided you wanted to be a bombshell with SCW?

 

Apple Coren: Naturally when one is as skilled as I am, one naturally goes to the company that is the best and I have it on very good authority that Sin City Wrestling is one of the best independent promotions.  It was a natural fit for me so I approached the company and they gave me a contract.  

Apple puts her two hands behind her head and leans back on the chaise in comfort as Pussy looks down below the camera angle and the sound of rustling papers is heard.  She looks back up and gets a serious look on her face.  

Pussy Willow:  You did sign a contract and now you have been booked in a match for the very first time and you will be facing someone that has been in SCW for a while and is pretty good.  And she is also the fiancée of a former champion and the soon to be stepmother of our current Bombshell Roulette champion, Seleana Zdunich.  

Apple Coren:  And I should be concerned why?  

Pussy looks surprised as the question is turned back on her.

Pussy Willow:  Well, she has wrestled in SCW longer than you…  

Aple nods as a serious look comes over her face.  

Apple Coren:  AND?

Pussy Willow: Her fiancée has been a champion a couple of times and is her trainer.  And her step daughter to be is a champion too.

Pussy looks as if all that information should have Apple running for the hills but Apple just yawns and then addresses the camera with a look of confidence.  

Apple Coren: I am sure that Seleana is more than capable of getting in the ring and thinking that she is going to be able to overcome the pure class that I am going to exude in that ring.  Let me tell you something Ms Willow…

Again Pussy pipes up to remind Apple of her name which only garners an eyeroll before Apple speaks again.  

Apple Coren:   I have always liked the fact that no one thinks that I as an aristocrat would be capable of dirtying one’s hands with something as low class as wrestling.  However, just because I am nobility doesn’t mean I do not know how to fight given the fact that girls in boarding school tend to have quite the rows with town girls at the pub.

Apple stops for affect, her fingers fluffing her hair as she does.  

Pussy Willow: Are you saying that you are a streetfighter?  

Apple Coren: What I am saying, Ms Willow, is that if you think that one isn’t ready to do what it takes to win, that is the moment that you realize you are laying on your back wondering what the number of the lorry that hit you is.  I am not saying that I can’t be a lady because we both know that I was born to that.  I am saying that despite my nobility, I am a winner in that ring.  I will do what it takes to continue to rule over the little people that make up the bombshell division in Sin City Wrestling.  I don’t suppose that you would be willing to send a message for me to my opponent, would you?

Pussy Willow: Yeah I suppose I could pass on the message.

Apple nods as she leans towards the camera, her legs crossing as she places her elbows on her knees.  

Apple Coren:  Brilliant!  I want you to tell Seleana that I am quite sorry that on Sunday at that little theme park in Texas will have a new sideshow.  Let me see if I can make a comparison for Seleana.  I believe that Mr Jeff Foxworthy says it well when he says that you know you are a redneck when…

Apple pause for a moment trying to think of the last part of the quote.  Her finger rises to tap ever so lightly against her nose before a smile breaks over her face and she continues.  

Apple Coren:  Ah yes…you know you are a redneck when some one yells HoeDown and Seleana hits the floor.    

Pussy had taken a sip of some kind of liquid as Apple speaks and with the comment, a stream of misted liquid covers the screen blurring Pussy.  

Pussy Willow:  Oh my god that is like sooo rude.  

Apple Coren: Rude maybe however,  I have the feeling that I am closer to the truth because the truth is I don’t really think that Seleana is a lady in the real sense or the nobility sense.  After all, she is just a low class, working woman with no chance on Sunday for the win.  Because Ms Willow, I am coming to bring class to the bombshells.  Between you and me, we both know they need it…rather badly.  And let one begin with a win over Ms Zdunich.  

Apple once more begins to relax as she motions towards Ivy but is stopped by a final question from Pussy.  

Pussy Willow:  Do you have any last words for the fans of SCW?

Apple pauses for a moment then a sly look crosses her face.  

Apple Coren: They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away but an Apple on Climax Control Sunday means one will be sent the doctor’s way.

Pussy looks slightly confused as she thinks about what Apple had said.  

Pussy Willow:  that rhymes but sounds awkward.  

Apple Coren: Bollocks…fine, let my last words be this…This Apple is rotten to the core and that means my opponent will feel the Unhappily Ever After

Pussy Willow:  Wow, you are really confident that you will pull out the win?  

Apple Coren:  Ms Willow, I am surprised that you aren’t confident that I will win.  

As she speaks, she points at Ivy who leans into the shot to mouth the word “Sorry” as she disconnects the call and turns to Apple who has made another blini and caviar.  

Apple Coren:  I say, that was rather  exciting talking like a real wrestler.  Just imagine how much more exciting when I win my first match.  Now I am sure that I have some time on my hand to head to the pub.  Call the car round, will you?  

Apple gets to her feet and brushes off the crumbs of the snack as she moves towards the door as Ivy picks up her phone and dials a number.  Lady Apple leaves Ivy and heads towards the door of the house, pulling it open as the butler appears with a boy’s folded wallet that Apple slides into a front pocket of her pants, a small silver chain attaching to her belt loop to softly bounce against her hip as she spins and exits the house as the sound of tires can be heard on the gravel of the drive.  Stepping onto the drive, Apple motions for the driver to exit the car before she slides behind the wheel and pulls away from the house with a spray of gravel and red taillights fading into the night.