[Mark Ward]

 Post your roleplays here! Good luck!

[Steve Ramone]

 Odette Ryder was this close to going through to the finals with Steve to face off against Brandi and Simon Jones, however the combined interference from Gabriel and Delia’s Mean Girls cohorts but an end to those plans pretty much guaranteeing a new Blast from the Past Tournament Champion, as if that wasn’t bad enough it was recently announced that Simon Jones would also be putting the SCW Heavyweight Title on the line in the Blast from the Past Finals thus denying Steve of another chance to win the Heavyweight Title.

But just because they were out of the tournament didn’t mean that Steve and Odette’s time as a team was up, far from it, the tradition of having an additional mixed tag team match as well as the Blast from the Past Finals was alive and well and this year it featured Steve and Odette taking on Roxi Johnson and Jeremiah Hardin, Roxi changed her ways on the last addition of Climax Control before Blaze of Glory III and this was her first match with her new ally Cyrus, no not Cyrus King, can Steve and Odette win again?

Steve’s hotel room, Long Beach, California
March 18th 2014, 17:00pm

So close, yet so far away.

We were so close to winning the Semi-Final match but first Gabriel’s cheesy return video played whilst Odette was outside the ring and then the Mean Girls kept her from returning to the ring, honestly if it wouldn’t have gotten me expelled I would’ve hit Drew with The Fearless Shot if it meant that Odette Ryder could have a bit more time to get back in the ring.

And before anyone accuses me of being a hypocrite let me point out that if Drew was doing his job Delia’s team would’ve been disqualified because of outside interference! How did that guy get hired again? He has to be one of the worst referees I’ve ever seen inside a wrestling ring and that’s saying a lot!

I just hope to god that that idiot isn’t the ref for our match at Blaze of Glory II!

If I had to choose between this match and challenging for the Heavyweight Title in the Blast from the Past Finals…..do I even need to finish that sentence? It’s like asking a man if he’d prefer a blowjob from Natalie Portman or having his dick chopped off with a rusty chainsaw! I think the choice he’s going to make is pretty obvious, don’t you?

Not that I’m dismissing the team of Roxi Johnson and Jeremiah Hardin though, Roxi gave Odette a hell of a fight during the Quarter Finals match a few weeks back and despite Roxi’s recent change in attitude I’m confident that we can at least end our team on a high.

And if Gabriel tries anything I have a Fearless Shot with his name on it!

As you know my family is back in New York and they will remain there until the business with Gabriel is resolved but that doesn’t exactly mean that they won’t be appearing in my promos, it just means that they will be appearing less often in my promos than they did in the past, they will be making short appearances via Skype calls or calls in general and at the moment I’m setting up the former.

“Man the Wi-Fi in this hotel sucks!” I grunted in annoyance as I waited for the connection to, well, connect and let me talk with my family and by extension Corey and Sara but like I said the connection is slow, thankfully the connection’s just gone through and Charlotte and Sophie are sitting in front of Corey’s desktop. “Hey guys!”

“Hey Steve,” Charlotte said with a small grin, it’s been a week since I’ve seen them in person and to be honest it’s felt like a millennium, before she could add anything else though……

“DADDY,” Sophie yelled out in joy once she saw me and I grinned at that broadly as did Charlotte. “I missed you daddy!”

“I missed you too Sophie.” I sighed to myself as Sophie calmed down a bit. “How have you guys been Charlotte?” I asked and Charlotte let out a deep breath.

“It’s been tough, I miss going out for meals but the fact that Sara’s a good cook acts as kind off a buffer for that fact.” Charlotte responded and I nodded in agreement. “However we both know the alternative and I would not risk that maniac endangering my daughter.” Charlotte added and I nodded in agreement.

“Trust me guys, once it’s safe for you to come with me on the road again you will come with me on the road again.” I responded and they grinned at that. “Can you put Corey or Sara on?”

“Sara’s out at the moment, she went to get some supplies for dinner tonight about twenty minutes ago, Corey’s still around though.” Charlotte responded before standing up and going to find Corey, I talked with Sophie but it was mostly about how her homeschooling was going since the move and other stuff and honestly, unless you’re a parent like me I doubt you’re interested.

Corey sat down in the seat previously occupied by Charlotte and Sophie left knowing that we were about to have an “adult conversation” as she liked to call it. “Hey man, I saw your last Blast from the Past match and that was…..” Corey trailed off before making sure that Sophie was out of the room and couldn’t hear him. “Bullshit.”

“She’s heard a lot worse coming from my mouth but thanks for waiting.” I sighed to myself, Sophie had overheard me use worse swear words before but I was usually careful about that. “And I couldn’t agree before, if Drew was doing his job than Ethan and Delia would’ve been disqualified.”

“I guess what Jessie says is true, that woman can’t win a match cleanly to save her life.” Corey responded with a nod. “Her time will come, if Ethan was smart than he’d try to stop Delia from cheating to win the Blast from the Past Tournament.”

“Yeah, because the only way he can win the Heavyweight Title is if he pins Simon.” I responded before shaking my head. “That spot should be mine!”

“You’ll get your chance dude, for now worry about your match and Gabriel.” Corey responded and I nodded in agreement. “And before you ask, I haven’t seen anyone who even remotely looks like Gabriel near our house and the same goes for those goons in the Synners.”

“If you see anyone who looks like those has-been idiots call me immediately! They may be past their prime but they are still dangerous!” I responded and Corey nodded. “Anyway I have to go, got a promo to finish and this Skype Call’s taken up half of it, that and I’m getting hungry.”

“You got it man I think Sara’s just come home anyway.” Corey responded and I nodded before he hung up, considering how crazy things have been since my first Blast from the Past Tournament I’m not taking any chances with Gabriel and his allies but for now I have to set that aside and focus on my match at Blaze of Glory III.

“You ever been so close to a goal only have it yanked from your grasp because of a combination of incompetence and outside interference? I have and anyone who saw my last Blast from the Past Match knows exactly what I’m talking about! The only reason this promo didn’t go up sooner was because I was on the phone to Mark and Christian all day yesterday trying to point out that not only should Delia’s team have been disqualified due to outside interference but Christian was being inconsistent about letting the Mean Girls at ringside!”

Guess how well that went!

“But they said that their hands were tied and the finals were already set, as much as I wanted to give them the most epic Reason You Suck speech in the history of mankind I wanted to keep my job and on top of that I get to have one more match with Odette Ryder as my tag team partner! Who are my opponents? The same team we beat to get through to the Semi-Finals to begin with, Roxi Johnson and Jeremiah Hardin!”

And I’m starting with Jeremiah this time.

“Jeremiah, our teams never crossed paths in the tournament but I did face Argento and you guys are pretty similar in size and shape, just not in wrestling style! That said I have no intention of going into the Africa tour with two losses in a row under my belt and when we win this match we will prove that it’s us that deserve the slot in the finals and not Ethan and Delia!”

Next up is Roxi.

“When we last met Roxi I was singing her well-deserved praises, now that she’s turned her back on her fans that have supported her to date I’m not sure if that’s even possible anymore! I don’t know who this Cyrus guy is but I can already tell that’s he’s a bad influence on Roxi, if this influence results in her beating Odette than good for her, if she ends up being pinned again, and she will, then we all know who’s made a big mistake here, don’t we Roxi?”

And with that I decided to wrap things up.

“Roxi, Jeremiah, we may be out of the Blast from the Past Tournament due to incompetent officiating and outside interference but if our performance in the tournament proved anything it’s that we are a well-oiled machine and that machine will keep going as we defeat you! Just remember, you have nothing to fear but fear itself and no-one to fear but the team that should be fighting in the Blast from the Past Tournament finals!”

I left the hotel room as the scene fades.

[Roxi Johnson]

 “When all is said and done, how much good have an accomplished? They sell t-shirts of me. I’ve become a cliché. More good for the tourist trade than the streets. When you look too long at the abyss, the abyss looks back through you. Maybe it’s time for Batman to return to the night that spawned him, before anyone else gets hurt!”
-   Batman  (Batman: The Animated Series,  Episode: I am the Night)






Look at that. It's right there.

That was, of course, one of the last official tweets sent out by Roxi before she met me.

Hello ladies and gentlemen, I am Cyrus Powell. Most of you may not know me, but for some strange reason, a lot of you seem to hate my guts. I would say I’m hurt, but that would make me a liar, and I pride myself on telling the truth. Which, as luck would have it, is what I’ve been doing for Roxi.

There have been so many questions directed at me, and what exactly I “did” to Roxi. Physically, I’ve done nothing to Roxi. Mentally however, I’ve simply opened her eyes to the sad truth about SCW, and the people in her line of work in general:

They just don’t care.

I know, you can make all the excuses you like. It doesn’t change what you did to that poor girl, when she needed you the most. That’s where I came into the picture. I simply did what most of you have neither the time, nor the intelligence to do:

Listen.

That’s is. That’s all you had to do, and yet, you did nothing. You never asked how she felt, you never gave her what she needed when you had the chance. Now, I’m going to lead her back to the top, and you have two choices in the matter: step aside, and become a victim. She may have tried to save you time and time again, but I am not as forgiving. The first examples will be Steve Ramone and Odette Ryder. They are just as guilty as the rest of you.

So, while you contemplate what you could have done better, how you could have saved her, let me tell you a story.



[We open outside a bar, as Roxi, trying to keep a low profile, walks in amongst those standing outside smoking and talking on their phones. But, where Roxi goes, Dee Jaa is sure to follow. She hurriedly follows behind and tries to keep up. Roxi looks back and sees her. She quickly ducks around, out of view and waits. Sure enough, Dee follows her around the corner.]

Roxi - *Sigh* Really?

Dee Jaa – I’m sorry, but I have to keep an eye on you.

Roxi – You already told me nothing is coming up that will change anything. So why don’t you just leave me alone. You’ve done enough.

Dee Jaa – I’m just trying to help –

Roxi – Help what? You haven’t helped me. You got nothing but vague, possibly inconsequential things you’ve tried to make me do. And what did it get me? Nothing.

Dee Jaa – I’m sorry. I couldn’t tell you.

Roxi – You’ve got a bunch of people believing that you are from the future. I don’t buy it. Not anymore. You can’t prove anything. I don’t want you around. I don’t need you around. Just leave me alone.

Dee Jaa – It was something that wasn’t going to happen. You had Argento as a partner.

Roxi – That’s not an excuse. You led me on like I was something. I can’t believe I almost thought it was true. But I’m through with this. Nothing is going to change despite what I do.

Dee Jaa – Roxi, I know I haven’t been…completely honest about this.

Roxi – No! That’s right. You haven’t been honest at all! So, I’m through with you.

Dee Jaa – I knew we would have this conversation, I wanted it to be different. But you must believe me.

Roxi – No. I’m not listening to you anymore. Stay away from me. Stay out of my life!

Dee Jaa – Fine. I’ll let you get on with this. Just…do me one favor.

Roxi – What?

Dee Jaa – When what happens next happens…just remember who your friends are.

Roxi - … Whatever.

[With that, Roxi pushes past Dee and walks into the bar. Roxi sits down at a table and simply sulks. She does nothing, she says nothing. She just sits.]

Why do I even bother?



[After some time has passed as she still hasn’t done anything. She begins watching the other patrons. Studying them, she begins to feel worse.]

Look at them, having fun, just being normal. Not a care in the world. Wish I could do that.

[Then, a man, dressing in a biker jacket, and not looking entirely wholesome walks past Roxi and they make eye contact. Roxi dismisses this at first, and turns back to look elsewhere. But the man stops, smirks, and pulls the chair opposite Roxi out and sits down.]

Man – Disgusting isn’t it?

Roxi – What?

Man – How carefree they all are.

Roxi – I…

Man – You, uh, look familiar.

Roxi – I don’t know you, that’s for sure.

Man – My name is Cyrus.

Roxi – Well, Cyrus, Now that we know each other, maybe you could give me some space.

Cyrus – Oh, I’m sorry, I don’t mean to be rude. But I’ve been watching you since you came in.

Roxi – You’re spying on me.

Cyrus – No, I just don’t always see pretty girls like you walk in without somebody to be here with.

Roxi – That’s the way I prefer it, if you don’t mind.

Cyrus – I can see.

[Cyrus stands up from the table, but then snaps his fingers.]

Cyrus – I got it.

Roxi – Got what?

Cyrus – You’re Roxi Johnson.

[Roxi rolls her eyes and sighs]

Cyrus – I knew I knew your face. You do that whole…superhero thing.

Roxi – Yeah…well…not anymore.

Cyrus – I always thought it was cool. What a role model for those little girls all over the world.

Roxi – Do you…want an autograph or something?

Cyrus – No. I’m just a fan. And...well…I’m just going to go ahead and say it…you’ve got a great face.

[Roxi rolls her eyes again, just wanting to get rid of this man.]

Cyrus – Oh no, I’m not making a pass at you or anything, I’m actually a part-time photographer.

Roxi – You?

Cyrus – Oh yes. Maybe…you would consider posing for me.

Roxi – I don’t think so.

Cyrus – Oh, I get it. You think I’m…THAT kind of photographer. I’m not.  My girlfriend and I actually run our own little studio.

Roxi – That’s great, but I’m just not interested.

Cyrus – Fair enough. Do you…mind if I asked you just…one more question? Then I’ll get out of your hair and leave you be.

Roxi – What?

Cyrus – You do the whole superhero thing, you have to feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, and well, not getting the job done lately kinda, got you down hasn’t it?

Roxi – What do you care?

Cyrus – I’ve seen people with weight on their shoulder’s before. I’ve been people who are stressed out. Doctors, Lawyers. But you…you look like you’ve got all kinds of weight on you. Don’t you think it’s time you, let go of that weight?

Roxi – What are you getting at?

Cyrus – You seem like you worry about all these people, like a real superhero or something. I can see that. You live the character. But, don’t you think there should be…a little separation?

Roxi – I…I suppose…Why?

Cyrus – I know I asked you to pose, but I was really thinking about, just…coming with me.

Roxi – Go with you?

Cyrus – Yes.

Roxi – I don’t even know you.

Cyrus – Well, let me put it this way. These people…they like you, but they’re not concerned when you have a problem. They don’t care. When was the last time they listened to your problems?

Roxi – …

Cyrus – I’m here, and I will listen to your problems. In fact, I think I can help you solve them.

Roxi – And how do you propose that happens?

Cyrus – Simple. Just come with me, back to my apartment. We’ll just talk, away from these people. Away from people those who…don’t want to listen. I want to listen.

Roxi – I don’t think so.

Cyrus – What’s the worst that could happen? The world gonna end because you came with me to talk for 15 minutes? Being who you are, being here isn’t you. I’ve got a nice place, great view. Just…come and talk. That’s all.

[Roxi contemplates this for a few moments in silence.]

Cyrus – If anything happens, you’re just gonna kick my ass anyway.

[Roxi looks at Cyrus for a few moments.]

Is the world going to end? No. I’ve been here before. I know where this leads. Every hero and good natured instinct in my bones says no. It’s the old me talking. But that was then. Change is a good thing sometimes.

Roxi – Alright. 15 minutes, no more.

Cyrus – Thank you. You won’t regret it.



[The scene cuts to Cyrus’ massive studio. It has a beautiful deck overlooking the city skyline. Roxi stands out on the deck, peering into the city.]

Roxi – It’s beautiful.

Cyrus – Sometimes, I hate it.

Roxi – Why?

Cyrus – Because to me, it’s like looking at an ant farm. People oblivious to their surroundings. Taking each day for granted. They don’t know how lucky they are.

Roxi – They’re good people.

Cyrus – Are they? What do they do that’s so good? Most of them only work because they get paid. No one’s solving the world’s problems. People like you, you give the people entertainment, you take them away from their problems, but who takes you away from yours?

Roxi – Well, nobody. I guess.

Cyrus – And that’s not fair. Which is why I invited you here. To just…unwind. No more problems for you tonight. Let me take care of your problems.

Roxi – Why do this for me?

Cyrus – Because you are different from them. You stand out from the crowd. Come on, sit down.

[Calmly, Roxi walks in and sits on Cyrus’ couch.]

Roxi – You know, every instinct in my body right now, tells me this is wrong. I shouldn’t be here.

Cyrus – But you’re here. You showed up. And nothing bad has happened, has it?

Roxi – No.

Cyrus – I want this moment, right now, to be about you. Not me. Just, relax. Take that weight off your shoulders. I can see you’ve been thinking about this.

Roxi – I have.

Cyrus – I want you to look out to the city there, and understand something. As good of a person, as much of a role model that you are, they don’t care.

Roxi – They…they care.

Cyrus – No. They don’t. You’ve always looked out for them, and their entertainment, and their happiness. They don’t do the same to you. Do they?

Roxi – N…no..but…

Cyrus – And they’re never going to. Who’s trying to cheer you up? Who understands what you go through? People at your job? Of course not, they just want you to toughen up. They don’t think you even can get upset do they?

Roxi – I…

Cyrus – In your moment of need, who is there for you now? Friends? Family? Love ones? They all just assume you’ll be alright. That you’ll get over it. You got embarrassed out there by Odette, and what happened? I saw your twitter. They gave you, you the “Aw shucks” too bad, you lost. Because they don’t want to even try to help you. They’ve forgotten all about you already.

Roxi – I… I should go.

Cyrus – Go where? Back home? To nothing and no one? No one to hear you vent that pent up frustration and anger. To release all that humiliation you feel? No, you deserve better.

Roxi – I..Do…

Cyrus – Of course. It’s why I’m here. So let me…let me help you.

[Roxi stands up and looks at the door. Cyrus stands up behind her, putting his hands on her shoulders.]

Cyrus – Out there…out that door, is an uncaring, unfriendly world. These shoulders have a lot of weight on them. The other side of that door, just leads to more weight. It’s time to let it go.

[Roxi’s face is tense, and full of conflict. She slowly reaches out with her hand, but it falls limply at her side, and she turns to face Cyrus]

Roxi – You…you’re right.

Cyrus – So do what you know you must. Let me help you. Let. Me. In.

[Roxi wraps her arms around Cyrus and the two embrace. Cyrus runs his hands through Roxi’s hair, as Roxi’s face seems to lose all the tenseness and emotion.]

Cyrus – Let’s talk about you. Tell me…everything.

Roxi – Yes…

And so, it began.



[Jump to later as Roxi’s mascara has run from her crying. She still looks like a lost puppy, but seemingly happier.]

Cyrus – Don’t you feel better?

Roxi – A little. Yes.

Cyrus – Well, it’s getting late. You’ve had quite the emotional outlet today. I think you should stay here for the night.

Roxi – No…I’m fine really…

Cyrus – Roxi, you are trembling right now. You’re a wreck. You need to rest.

Roxi – I don’t want to trouble you.

[Cyrus just shakes his head.]

Cyrus – You are going to have to let that kind of thinking go. Stop worrying about everything. I’ll get you something to help you sleep.

[Roxi watches as Cyrus walks into the kitchen area and grabs a glass of water and some pills. He returns and hands them to her.]

Cyrus – Take this.

Roxi – …

Cyrus – It’s just Nyquill gel caps. They’ll help you sleep.

[Roxi stares at the pills and then at Cyrus.]

Roxi – Thank you for listening Cyrus.

Cyrus – No problem.

[Roxi puts the pills in her mouth and swallows them with the water. She lays down and Cyrus watches as she slowly falls asleep. Then, a woman enters the apartment and Cyrus motions for her to be quiet. She walks up and wraps her arms around him and kisses his cheek.]

Cyrus – ‘Lex. Please be courteous to our new guest.

Alexis – Another?

[Alexis looks down at Roxi sleeping on the couch.]

Alexis – She’s pretty.

[Alexis reaches out to touch Roxi’s face, and Cyrus snatches her arm and pulls her by the hair away from Roxi, pinning Alexis against the wall.]

Alexis – Ow! Ow!

Cyrus – Not yet!  Stupid bitch!

Alexis – You’re right… I’m sorry.

[Cyrus releases Alexis and sighs.]

Cyrus – You know the rules. We break them down, and build them back up.

Alexis – I’m sorry.

Cyrus – This one is a special project. But, she’s going to be fun to break and rebuild. I made a lot of progress tonight. And as long as she’s here…we’ll have it done in no time.

Maybe it was the Nyquill. Maybe it was Cyrus. Maybe it was both. I’m not sure, but it was the best sleep I’ve had in a long time.



[The next morning, Roxi slowly stirs around in her sleep, but Cyrus is there to slowly caress her face as she awakens.]

Cyrus – Good morning, sleepy head.

Roxi – Morning…

Cyrus – Yes. Come on, rise and shine. There’s a lot to do today.

[Roxi sits up, a little confused.]

Roxi – What do you mean?

Cyrus – We’ll take about that, after breakfast. ‘Lex is making eggs, come on…

[Roxi slowly rolls off the couch, and follows Cyrus to the kitchen, and sit at the table where a plate of eggs is waiting.]

Roxi – You didn’t have to do this.

[Alexis smiles at her.]

Alexis – It’s no problem. Who doesn’t like a home-cooked meal every now and again, right?

[Roxi smiles as Cyrus sits down and Alexis hands him a plate as well.  Alexis makes her eggs and soon she sits down at the table.]

Roxi – I…I really need to thank you. You really helped me more than you’ll know.

[Cyrus smiles at her, before shaking his head. He swallows his food and uses a napkin.]

Cyrus – I think you should know, that last night was just the beginning. We still have a long way to go.

Roxi – A long way to go for what?

Cyrus – We still have a lot to discuss. Which is why today, we’re going to really delve deep.

Roxi – I…I think I’ll be okay.

Alexis – Trust me girl, Cy is one of the best at this. He’s done it for so long.

Roxi – No, really, you’ve done a lot already.

Cyrus – But we want to help you, we can’t leave a job half finished. So, once you finish, you can take a shower, and we’ll get started.

[As soon as breakfast ends, Roxi takes a shower. Once she finishes, she walks out, but her clothes are gone. Wearing only a towel, she creeps out, looking for them. Cyrus has set up a chair in front of the couch, and sees her standing there.]

Cyrus – Something wrong?

Roxi – Where are my clothes?

Cyrus – ‘Lex took them. She had to get the sizes so she knows what to get.

Roxi – What to get?

Cyrus – Yes, she’s headed out, and she’s going to get you some new clothes.

Roxi – What am I supposed to wear?

[Alexis rounds the corner with a basket.]

Alexis – I got all the sizes, but I’m going to wash them if you don’t mind. So, I have some of my old clothes, since we’re pretty similar in size. Except, well...hehe…in the chest.

[Roxi looks down at her chest, embarrassed. She looks at Alexis’ chest in comparison, blushing.]

Alexis – Hey, what’s the problem? You should not be ashamed of that body. No way. You should be proud. So you’ve got some big boobies, that’s how you came out.

Cyrus – Alexis.

[The sternness in Cyrus’s voice stops Alexis’s playful attitude. She hands Roxi the basket.]

Alexis – Pick out what you like. I’ll be back later.

[Alexis takes the keys off the wall and leaves. Roxi takes the basket into the bathroom and finds some clothes to change into. Nothing really fits, as Alexis is a bad judge of size. The top is too tight, and the pants are too loose. Roxi squeezes herself into everything, and walks out, awkwardly.]

Cyrus – Ah, everything alright?

Roxi – Yeah.

Cyrus – Come then, sit down, and let’s talk.

[Roxi makes her way over and sits on the couch, Cyrus can see she’s uncomfortable with the clothes.]

Cyrus – Nothing fits does it?

Roxi – Not…really.

Cyrus – Well, think of it as, a new you. The change you’re allowing me to help you make, it felt weird and uncomfortable, didn’t it? But soon enough, its start to feel natural. You’re just going to have to trust me.

Roxi – Okay…

Cyrus – Now, we did talk about a lot last night. But today, we’ve got to get everything out in the open. I can’t help you completely if you keep things from me. And even though we talked about a lot, I still feel like there are things you don’t want to tell me.

Roxi – I don’t know, last night was kind of a blur. Things are just so cloudy right now. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I don’t know where I am right now, both mentally and emotionally.

Cyrus – I understand, it was completely crazy last night, it comes as a shock to your system when you’re as pent up as you are. But I’m going to help you out of this haze.

Roxi – You did so much for me, and it’s really too much for you to go and get me clothes, I have stuff at home…

Cyrus – No. If you really want to make a change, you must let go of the past. There’s nothing for you at home except bad memories. Things that don’t need to be a daily reminder. This is a new you. A better you. I have to break down those barriers, but you need to lower them for me. Can you do that?

Roxi – I…I can.

Cyrus – Good.

Roxi – But, I do have a question. How long do you think this will take? I mean, I have so much to do, and friends and Keira, and people are going to worry.

Cyrus – Are they?

Roxi – Yes.

Cyrus – Really? When was the last time they were concerned with you? Hmm? When did they ask you about your day, or wonder how you were?

Roxi – I…

Cyrus – If you can’t remember, it’s been too long.  The ugly truth is, they only want you, when they need something from you. They only want to talk, when it’s something they want to talk about. They never wonder about you. I’ve seen so much, in such a short span of knowing you.

Roxi – …

Cyrus – It’s the reason you came here, isn’t it? Because you needed someone to talk to, someone to make you the center of attention, if for nothing else, a few minutes. Has anyone else done that for you? Keira? Simon Jones? Anyone? No. They haven’t. Because they don’t care. I’m beginning to suspect that outside of this apartment, there isn’t someone, who needs you, to do something for them.

Roxi – They…talk to me, they encourage me.

Cyrus – To do what? Roxi, I know this is hard for you to take, but the fact of the matter is, that encouragement only comes when they want to make themselves look good, they’ve done their good deed for the day, and then boom, they’re gone. Tell me, was anyone encouraging you, when you were the bombshell’s champion? Did anyone praise you when you won those other titles? Despite what good you were doing?

Roxi – They…No…

Cyrus – That’s right. They taunted you. Wanted to knock you down. And when you did lose, they were there to step on you.

Roxi – You…you think they…wanted me to fail? They were proud of me…

Cyrus – Lies, Roxi. They’d just as soon stab you in the back when the chance arose to brighten their own star. Lies are much prettier than the truth. The truth is ugly. No one wants the truth. But they need it. If they were really your friends, they would tell you themselves. If you disappeared right now, never tweeted, never competed, ever again, would they be there for you?

Roxi – I…I don’t know.

Cyrus – I rest my case. If you can’t be sure of your friends, who can you be sure of?

[Cyrus rests his hands on Roxi’s shoulders and looks her in the eye.]

Cyrus – I’m trying to open your eyes. You have to trust me. If you do, I will never let you down.

[Roxi averts her eyes from direct contact, hiding her head away from his.]

Cyrus – Trust me.

Roxi – Everything you say…the more I think…it makes sense…

[Roxi pauses, and then turns and looks back at Cyrus.]

Roxi – I trust you. Please help me.

[Cyrus leans back in the chair and smiles.]

Cyrus – Are you ready to let me in?

Roxi – Yes.

Cyrus – Good.



[Flash to later, Roxi stares at Cyrus with an almost blank expression.]

Cyrus –Didn’t that feel good?

Roxi – Actually…yes.

Cyrus – I must say, you have a lot on your shoulders. You’ve hidden a lot from your friends and co-workers. I mean, you’ve taken on so much, I’m amazed you can still get out of bed in the morning.

Roxi – I didn’t think it was that much.

Cyrus – No one ever does. But, the work we’ve done since last night is ground breaking.

Roxi – You’re not going to tell anyone anything, are you?

Cyrus – You can’t keep it bottled up, you know that.

Roxi – It would devastate people. I don’t want to hurt anyone.
Cyrus – If they don’t understand, that’s their problem, Roxi. You can’t worry about what they think about you so much.

Roxi – You can’t tell Keira any of this. It would break her heart.

Cyrus – She keeps things from you, doesn’t she?

Roxi – I don’t know. It’s been so long since we talked.

Cyrus – I get it, you’re busy, she’s busy. But she, the person who owes you her life, should be able to make time for you, don’t you think?

Roxi – We’re apart a lot from the travel. It’s not by choice.

Cyrus – What’s stopping her from being with you anywhere? You have tried time and time again to get her to come and be with you, and now…poof, she’s gone. What about your needs? You’re always there for her, aren’t you?

Roxi – I…try to make time…

Cyrus – And you get nothing in return. Isn’t that why you…well, you wanted to anyway, with Jimmy Ringo?

Roxi – I… I never wanted to…that much.

Cyrus – Roxi…you just told me about it. You have to be honest with me if we’re ever going to make progress. It’s how you felt at the time, correct?

Roxi – It was just…lust I guess. He would be up for it, obviously. Bam, one time and it would be over. No one would have to know.

Cyrus – I understand completely. Well, not completely, seeing as Mr. Ringo appears to be everything you would dislike in a person. But none the less, you have needs. I get that.

Roxi – I couldn’t bring myself to actually do…anything about it. It was just a brief fantasy. Part of me knew the type of reaction I’d get if I had tried.

Cyrus – Like a bunch of children, they would have judged you.

Roxi – Jimmy isn’t the most likeable guy. Actually, he’s downright annoying, and rude.

Cyrus – Yet, it was him, and not anyone else.

Roxi – I can’t explain it. It was brief, and nothing happened.

Cyrus – And yet, you don’t want Keira to know this. Even though nothing happened?

Roxi – She’d never understand. I don’t want her to be paranoid that I’d just go around sleeping with people behind her back.

Cyrus – You didn’t.

Roxi – But that thought in her head…I know what it would do to her.

Cyrus – You would deny yourself any personal satisfaction to keep someone who can’t understand your needs from knowing the truth?

Roxi – If that’s what it took. Keira means a lot to me.

Cyrus – But it doesn’t sound like the feeling is mutual.

Roxi – She’s not that kind of person.

Cyrus – Isn’t she? She’s needy Roxi. A leech that drags you down. Go ahead, tell her about this, and see her reaction. She won’t be understanding of me, or anything you’ve done today.

Roxi – You don’t think she will?

Cyrus – I know she won’t.

Poor child. She still holds on to the good she sees in everyone. While they never understand.

A pity. I feel so sorry for her at times. She’s like a naïve child who’s let her disposition overrule her common sense.



[Jump to a short time later. Roxi looks down at her phone, getting more and more frustrated by the moment. She gives you all more credit than your worth.]

Cyrus – Going well?

Roxi – No. Not at all.

Cyrus – I told you so.

Roxi – I don’t get it. Everyone I’ve talked to or messaged seems to think I’m in trouble. Keira’s flipping out on me. Her arguments don’t make any sense. People think you’re…

Cyrus – Lying to you? Trying to manipulate you?

Roxi – Yes. Exactly.

Cyrus – Do you know why? It’s because they don’t want you to see them for the fakes they are.

Roxi – You think so?

Cyrus – I know so. They never understand. It’s a sad truth.

Roxi – I can’t believe they would do that.

Cyrus – People are selfish Roxi. You have to learn that.

Roxi – I guess I have to. Why would they do that?

Cyrus – People are strange Roxi. Just when you think you know them…They change.

Roxi – I see that now.

[Alexis soon opens the door, carrying bags filled with clothes.]

Alexis – I’m back.

Cyrus – Good. What did you find?

[Alexis can barely contain her smile.]

Alexis – This stuff is hot. You’re going to look so good in it.

Roxi – What are you talking about?

Cyrus – ‘Lex can get excited sometimes. It’s up to you.
Roxi – What?

Cyrus – Let’s get you away from twitter, and focus on something else. Did you ever re-consider posing for me?

Roxi – I don’t know.

Alexis – Hunny, you are fabulous. You’d look great wearing this stuff. You shouldn’t be ashamed of your body. Or be modest.

Roxi – You…really think so?

Alexis – When you see this sexy gear, you’ll thank me.

Cyrus – Alexis is very good at finding what works best for a woman. She’s got a knack for it.

[Roxi looks around for a moment, considering it.]

Roxi – Okay, let’s do it.

[Alexis smiles broadly.]

Alexis – Sweet! Come with me, and I’ll show you what I got.

Only a matter of time.



[After the photo shoot, Roxi is shown wearing a revealing lingere set. She takes a drink while wearing a towel over her back.]

Cyrus – Roxi, question.
Roxi – Yes?

Cyrus – What made you change your mind about posing?

Roxi – I…I don’t know. I guess I just got tired of playing it safe.

Cyrus – That’s a way to create a new you. Change can be a good thing.

Roxi – Yes. It can.



And so, here we are. Wasn't so bad, was it?

I can only tell you that I am trying. You see what I’m trying to do. Just help someone who is in need of help. Am I a bad guy? Of course you think so, because you don’t like when someone who has exposed you. That’s quite alright, because my conscience is clear. I’m not doing anything to hurt anyone, just educate Roxi on the evils that you all are bringing into her world. Don’t blame me, blame yourselves for not helping when you could. It’s not like this wasn’t plainly spelled out for you.

It all started when she lost the bombshell’s title, and couldn’t win it back. Someone, anyone could have stepped in and picked it up there. Then against 3 other bombshells, she lost again, another opportunity. But no, you left her, you forget about her. It serves you right for what you did. Then comes the Blast from the Past tournament, and low and behold, the return of Odette Ryder. And what did you do? You jumped right on that bandwagon. You all just fell in love with Ms. Ryder, despite all she did to this company. But no, she’s back, and now, you love her again. Gabriel is 100% correct about Odette, and as soon as Roxi finishes with her, I hope Gabriel finishes the job. And for the record, Roxi does as well.

Then Odette beat Roxi in the ring. Despite neither of them being legal, sure enough, Odette looks like a winner. Exactly how they like it. And then, Gabriel rightly rains of the parade.

Poor Odette.
It’s not like you and your imbecile partner Steve Ramone didn’t deserve this.

Yes, Steven Ramone is a moron. I said it, because it’s true. Steve Ramone is quite frankly, from what I’ve seen, lucky to even be able to dress himself, and yet, he almost made the finals of a major tournament. He should consider himself lucky that he made it this far. He’s a lucky, lucky man. This apparently, has given him the right to run his mouth about how great he is. The fact of the matter is, without Odette, Steve Ramone would be at the bottom of the barrel. In fact, I dare say, with a better partner, Roxi would have eliminated them from the tournament, and then maybe this all could have been avoided. That’s right Hardin, you’re the partner this time, and Roxi Johnson will not be embarrassed again. You understand that? Roxi and I expect that you will at least pull your weight. You should have no problem with Steve Ramone. A word to the wise, don’t make this harder than it needs to be. Just be there, when she needs you.
But, as I said, All that has happened up until now, could have never happened, if people were there where Roxi needed them, this is no different. As I said, blame yourselves.

Or… feel sorry for Odette Ryder.

You know Odette, before all this, Roxi was content. She was at peace with her career. Proud of her accomplishments. She had done almost everything there was to do here in SCW. She was feeling pretty good.

She knows, you can't win 'em all Ms. Ryder. And she was okay with that. She was perfectly fine with never having beaten you. You are good. There's no shame in losing to you.  She was okay with you beating her in the finals last year, and a tag match here and there. After all, you opened the door for her by leaving afterward. You left, so that she could focus on the biggest women’s title in the company. So yeah, she was okay with not having beaten you in her career.

But you know, something happened Odette. Something she wasn't really expecting, because you never seemed like that kind of person. But I saw it coming. I mean, I've been around long enough to know better.

At first, Roxi was confused.  She wondered why you would do something like that. But that, was weeks ago. Things have clearly changed. Now, She is no longer content with not having beat you.

You wanna know why Odette?

Because you wouldn't let it go.

You couldn't drop it.

You just took the ball and ran with it. At first, it was amusing. That's Odette for you. Good fun being poked. There are people who Roxi hasn’t beaten. But at least they are classy about it. I know, I've stirred up a hornets nest, and now they will brag about her not beating them, but that's not important right now.

Now, Odette, it's annoying. It sticks in her craw. All because it didn't need to happen. All because you don't know when enough is enough. You didn't have to do it, Odette. You didn't need to go around rubbing it in, throwing salt on the wound at every turn. You could have been a gracious winner.

But then, that wouldn't be you, would it?

Oh sure, you can sit there all you like and tell me how great you think she is, and how much you respect her, and blow all the sunshine you want up her ass. Because now, both she and I see through it. She sees the backhanded compliments. She sees the arrogance.

What else would you call it Odette? It certainly isn't respect. I know respect when I see it. And respect is not bringing up the whole "never beat me" thing every 5 minutes. Respect is not bragging about winning against her. Respect is not looking her in the eyes and telling her how good you think she is, How much you enjoy your matches, and then snickering about it later.

I wrestled with this for a couple of weeks, I gathered it all in. I wanted to give you the benefit of the doubt Odette. I wanted this to be no big deal, and a joke between friends.

But, It's not a joke anymore Odette. It's not funny anymore.

So, After taking it all in, I could really only come to one, solid, conclusion.

You really don't think Roxi can beat you, do you?

It's a rhetorical question Odette, but I know you obviously answered "No". You don't think she’s good enough.

"You're good, but I'm better." Right Odette? I mean, why are you running around trumpeting your victories over her constantly? I think I have the answer.

At Blaze of Glory III, Roxi is not going to get the "Odette Ryder monkey" off her back. No, because you're not a monkey on her back. You're not even a loose end she needs to tie up.

You are a leech, sucking her blood.

A virus, infecting her.

A dirty, disgusting, painful rash.

A PARASITE.

You're still trumpeting your wins because it's the most current thing you've done that's even slightly impressive. Because you need something to make yourself feel better. Something to make yourself feel important. You can hang your hat on the fact that you beat Roxi, Anything to hide what happened after that right, Odette?

You were promptly, thoroughly embarrassed by Gabriel. He exposed you for what you really are.

It reminded me of a parent giving a child the attention they crave. Because that's what you are Odette. A attention-starved child.

We all have to sit through it because Odette Ryder is obviously the center of everything around here. And what happened Odette? You got treated to a healthy dose of reality. A parent disciplining a child.

And while I should feel some sort of sympathy for you..

I don't. And neither does Roxi.

Not anymore. The only thing she can say to that is...boo friggin hoo Odette. Oh no, Odette Ryder got her bubble burst and now she's got nothing. Someone please feel sorry for poor Odette Ryder. Someone make her feel important. And the world once again feels sorry for Odette Ryder. Interesting.

Why do you deserve sympathy?

You know, that's why Odette, when Roxi and Jeremiah beat you at Blaze of Glory III, It will be incredibly satisfying. Because she won't need to hang my hat on it. She won't need to remind everyone she beat you. One win, for her, will be more enjoyable than those you have.

Gabriel knows you. He knew what I know, and now, what Roxi knows.

We know who Odette Ryder really is.

[Melody Grace]

 I’ve found peace;

Ah Holidays, I love holidays. In fact if I can be right on point I love escaping to Mexico, it doesn’t matter if it’s Cozumel, Cancun or Cabo San Lucas I’m there. So why do I chose Mexico? Because regardless of all the terror that happens inland, the beaches are where I find myself at peace. Not only is it beautiful with its white sandy beaches and its crystal clear water, it has an odd sense of home. I can’t think of a single reason why I wouldn’t want to come back.  To me this is paradise, this is where I can let my hair down and be me. Yes me. Not the girl that you see on the television, not the girl that everyone is making me out to be. I can be me, one hundred and ten percent myself. So where am I now? As of right now I’m in Cabo soaking up the vitamin D that the sun is beaming down upon me away from the drama, away from the paparazzi, away from work and away from him.

Ah yes him also known as Gabriel!

You see I left out a little secret about Cabo, you see I own a house here, I have since we broke up and went our separate ways and I know for a fact he doesn’t know about it or if he does he wouldn’t know how to get to it. Trust me when I say this, this place is my temple, it’s my core that keeps me centred from all the hate, all the nightmares and all the negativity I have come under lately, to have a place like this to call my own that’s untouched and untarnished is something beautiful. Here I am protected from everyone that has tainted my name lately, I’m free from Casey Williams, I’m free from Misty, I’m free from Delia, Rage, Synn, Despayre, Angel and more recently I’m free from Cyrus and Roxi but to trump all those names, I’m free from him, I’m free from Gabriel. I can finally put my mind at ease and my body at rest.

***

If the world was just going to punish me for my choices, it shouldn’t have given me so many options in the first place – the Secrets of Flight

Opening up we find Odette Nicole Ryder, lying inside a large round bathtub. Around the bath were several lit candles that filled the room with a soft vanilla essence. Her feet were resting up on the side of the bath tub, while her body was immersed by bubbles and warm water. The bathroom of her lavish Mexican home was positioned in front of a set of doubler stacker doors, which she had opened letting the cool afternoon breeze filter through her house allowing her to connect with her surroundings. Looking over towards the doorway Odette’s face was at peace as she watched the sun start to sink down the sky, heading towards a dip in the ocean. Right now, she had it all. In the background the soft sounds of waves could be heard as she rested her shoulders back into the cushioned back rest in her extravagant bath tub. Bringing her right hand up to the top of the water Odette played with the scattered rose petals that she had dropped in there and the bubble. As her left hand reached to her side grabbing onto the stem of her favourite Swarovski crystal flute, inside the glass of course was champagne after all she was celebrating. Bringing the flute up to her natural lips the Australian Bombshell took a drink as she sunk down further into the water. After she had swallowed the liquid that was in her mouth a sigh escaped her lips as she put her head back and closed her eyes.

There was nothing in this world that could disturb her in this moment, nothing at all.

While Odette was too busy relaxing she missed the sound of the door quietly being opened and closed, she had missed the sounds of stern footsteps sailing across her titled floor. Walking across the spacious room a male figure could be seen, he was tall and muscular. His body covered in a pair of extremely tight jeans and an extremely tight wife-beater tank top. His hands were out stretched and ready as he made his way over towards the side of the bath. As he dawned closer to Odette, he started to bend over his intentions were clear he wanted to grab her. Just as he was about to make contact the feeling of not being alone had swept across Odette’s sub conscious, causing her eye lids to rip open. A shocked gasp left her lips as she dropped her glass into the water around her.

Odette: Rage, how on earth did you get in here?

Her tone was laced with confusion, yet she was scared and she had good reason. Looking up into his eyes Odette was scared stiff as he had nothing my pain, nothing but anger illuminating from them. He didn’t say a word all he did was continue towards her, his hands falling on top of her head he pushed her violently towards the water. Odette let out a scream but it was unless, she was alone in the house, she was alone in this street. Rage increased his force and even with Odette’s powerful struggles Rage was able to push her head down into the water. The look on Rage’s face didn’t change he was completely emotionless, he didn’t even have the decency to turn away as he watched Odette struggle to breathe.

As Odette was being held down the water compacted around her from all sides. The more she fought it the more it consumed her. The more she struggled the more disorientated she got. The soapy water was burning at her open eyes, she had kept them open to fight oh boy she wanted to fight. Looking left, right, up and down she looked for an escape, her arms and legs bashed around trying frenetically to find some sort of leverage for all Odette knew she could have actually been helping him. Was she helping him? For some reason the need to survive had kicked it up a gear and Odette in a moment of weakness opened her mouth to call out for help, she was desperate and stupid. So, so stupid. The water entered her mouth and darted straight down her throat, feeling like a million and one pins pricking her, as her lungs burnt for more air, they needed air, she needed air. However air never came, only water, soapy water that filled her lungs while the pressure alone burned at the back of her eyes. Her eyes, she had closed her eyes consuming her with darkness. The thought of fear escaping her as she finally let it in, she finally gave Rage a reason to let go of the pressure on top of her head, as her body felt weightless.

Ripping her eyelids apart Odette started to choke for air, looking left and right in a panic the Australian didn’t know what to think. Bringing her head back up to the surface she gasped, freeing the tightness from around her lungs. Quickly trying to gather her thoughts she brushed the water out of her eyes with one hand while her other one came up to cover her heart. A heart so shattered that it was pounding in pain while screaming for forgiveness. After a few moments of gathering her thoughts she pressed her back into the wall of the bath tub a single tear rolling down the side of her face. He had breach her parameters and she had once again let him inside.

Odette: I’m sorry.

Whispering to herself Odette reluctantly closed her eyes, hoping the feeling of drowning would wash away from her stiff body. It may have all just been in her head, but since he had been in there, there was nothing left to hide.

After a few minutes Odette can be found again inside her large Mexican hideaway, she’s dressed in a short blue and white Bonbon silk chiffon and French lace Babydoll. The lace that surrounded and supported her breasts was ivory, while the skirting was bright tropical blue, the colour radiating against her very natural tanned skin. Underneath her Babydoll was a matching blue tie up to the side cheeky panty, just proving that even when she was by herself she still wanted to look and feel sexy. As Odette made her way down her hallway she rustled her right hand through her wet hair, letting the ringlets fall down around her shoulders. As she made her way towards the stairs she couldn’t help but feel like she was being watched. Stopping in her tracks she looked around her home, finding the hallway completely empty she just shrugged her shoulders, letting a sigh escape her lips. She knew why she doubted this place, it’s because he had planted it firmly into her mind. How could she left someone so hurtful and angry seep into her entire being?

Setting back off on her mission towards the stairs Odette was forced to a complete stop as he eyes fell onto a soft cute lovable teddy bear sitting up on the top step. The bear was looking directly at her as he sat high and mighty with his back up against the railing, propping the infamous teddy bear Angel up.

Odette: It can’t be...

As Odette took a step closer towards the bear, she felt a set of hands come around her waist to pull her backwards.

Despayre:  DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT TOUCHING ANGEL.

Turning her head to the side Odette’s face came just inches away from a screaming Joshua. He was livid; the fire in his eyes alone said that he wanted nothing more than to punish her. Odette was able to wiggle free from his grasp but Joshua reached out and grabbed onto Odette’s hair, yanking her back into him.

Odette: Joshua, get off of me.

His fingers latched around her chocolate brown hair, wrapping it around his fingers and knuckles he pulled her into him. Her hair was tearing at the roots as Joshua spun Odette around so he could looks directly into her eyes.

Despayre: You hurt my friend Odette, I don’t like it when people hurt my friends.

Odette: This has nothing to do with you Joshua, let go, get out of my house.

As Odette was trying to shake her mind clear from these games that Gabriel was making her play, she couldn’t budge. He had her completely trapped in the form of a hell bent Despayre and Angel ready to lash out their form of punishment. Joshua didn’t respond he just whipped Odette around so now they were both standing at the top of the steps.

Despayre: You broke him and now I’m going to break you.

Looking back over her shoulder Odette let out a scream as she could feel Despayre was backing her up towards the top step. He only stopped once he could see that the backs of Odette’s heels were hanging dangerously over the side of the step. Joshua quickly yanked his hand out of her hair ripping a clump of it from their roots, he shook them down on to the ground. Not once did his eyes leave hers as he gritted his teeth snarling at her. Let’s be honest Odette saw this one coming, she knew that Joshua would hate her, she knew that no matter what she did or no matter what she would say Despayre would always take Gabriel’s side. He had too, Gabriel was like his older brother, Gabriel was his protector and as much as Gabriel hasn’t said it or admitted it Odette had hurt him and it’s because of this pain that he had sort out to make her life a living hell.

Odette felt Joshua’s cold unforgiving hands slam against the tops of her shoulders, as he toyed with her faking to push her down the stairs not once but twice. On the third push she wasn’t so lucky; his force alone was enough to send her stumbling down the stairs. Desperately trying to reach out Odette’s manicured nails scratched Joshua’s skin, but it was as if he didn’t even notice. The anger that was rushing through his veins was hell bent on watching her suffer. As Odette can felt herself tumbling she reaches out trying to hold onto the railing, trying to hold on to hope, but there was nothing to hold on to. A death ringing scream leaves her lips once more as her body bounces down the stairs in slow motion. Odette could almost count the bumps and bruises she was going to receive if she wasn’t so focused on death. Her body had tightened up making each new impact a thousand times harder. Finally her body comes to a stop at the bottom of the stairs, her head making a sickening thud as is cracks against the hard titled floors. Odette’s legs were wrapped up and tangled within themselves as her arms were laid out to her sides. Not a single sound was heard, not a single movement was made. She could hear footsteps coming down the stairs and the sound of a young boy gleefully humming. Looking up Odette saw Joshua and Angel as they stepped over her leaving her there broken, yet alive. He had wanted her to feel pain; he had wanted her to feel the same way he believed Gabriel felt when she left him.

Odette could feel herself stumbling, so she quickly reached out to her side catching herself as she stood at the top of her grand staircase. Looking down them she swallowed down hard, her dry throat burning as it tried to pass down her saliva. Her right hand came up to the railing of the stairwell and she held onto it for dear life, trying to catch her breath from what she had just thought she had gone through. Rolling her head across her shoulders, the free loving feeling from holidays had now been replaced with nothing but stress and fear. He had found her and one things’ for sure he wasn’t going to let her get away with it silently. Finally after collecting herself Odette started to make her way down the stairs taking them one at a time like a small child.

Odette: its okay, he’s not here it’s all in your head... he’s just in your head.

Whispering to herself, she made the slow and painful journey down the stairs. Her eyes wide as Odette focused on the task at hand and that was getting down them without falling and that meant getting down the stairs without letting him riddle her with fear.

A few hours later Odette had dragged herself out of her bedroom down the stairs and into the kitchen. The bags under her eyes said it all she wasn’t sleeping and with a night like hers, who could blame her. Standing at the sink she looked out of the wide window in front of her, seeing nothing but darkness. A darkness that scared her, she had never been the one for the dark in fact she hated it when she was on her own. She was sure it was before of all those horror stories she heard as a kid of females being tormented and abused in the night. The sound of her jug coming to boil peaked at her ears as she quickly leant over to turn it off from the wall. In front of her on the bench she already had her cup, filled with cocoa and sugar she was ready to go. Lifting the jug up as she went to pour the water into the cup until she heard a voice come to life behind her.

Synn: Can’t sleep?

Odette’s body instantly tensed up, if there was one person in the Seven Deadly Sins that she didn’t want hanging around her alone at night it would be him. Synn was the type that rendered Odette speechless, he held a power over her that none of the others did or could even imagine. She feared him more than anything right now, because she truly knew nothing about this man. The man that many had shared and swapped stories about how evil and sinister he could really be. Looking up to the window once more Odette could see him standing right behind her, so close in fact that she could now feel his cold stern breath on the back of her neck. The sight of Synn standing behind her shocked her enough for her to let go of the jug of water, the metal based object fell to the floor with a crash while burning hot water sprayed up her legs sending her to clench her jaw together in pain.  

Synn: Are you in pain dear Odette?

She didn’t say anything she just kept her eyes locked on the vision of him standing in the window. A sinister laugh left Synn’s lips.  He brought his face down to hers letting his voice ring in her ears with his asserted dominance.

Synn: How does it feel Odette? How does it feel knowing that you have to try and hide your pain from me, to protect yourself?

Once again Odette didn’t reply, she couldn’t she didn’t know what to say.

Synn: Ironic isn’t it?

She knew exactly what he was talking about, hell she knew exactly why he was here. It was his time to make her pay for the pain and suffering she had caused Gabriel, then man that he treated like a son. As Odette watched the glass in front of her, her eyes grew wide as she watched Synn pull a knife up. He didn’t point it towards her he just brought his arm around her, holding the knife out in front of her it was ready for the taking.

Synn: The thing is Odette a part of me believes that you didn’t want to hurt him, but than a big part of me knows how much of a selfish little bitch you are, you wanted to hurt him and congratulations you have wounded him... but the thing about wounds Odette is that in time they heel.

Looking down at the shape kitchen knife in front of her, she watched as the light shined across the blade as Synn still held it out towards her.

Synn: Now you want to make it better am I right? You want all of this to stop, you want to be free?

His free hand came out and grabbed at Odette’s right wrist, he politely turned her hand over without any force at all leaving her to look between her wrist and the blade.  Her veins were for some reason almost glowing from underneath her skin; it was if they wanted this act of punishment.

Synn: You know what you have to do, and you know by doing this the pain that you caused him will be erased. You see Odette, while your still alive breathing and in his face, he will be wounded... as soon as you rid yourself from your mortal being you will be a memory... and in return he will be healed.

His words might have been forceful but his actions weren’t he wanted her to do this for herself. Looking down at the knife on offer in Synn’s hand Odette reached out and took it from him. Looking up at his reflection she watched as he nodded towards her, almost applauding her. As she held the knife in her hand she instantly felt like she couldn’t live like this anymore. She never wanted him to suffer and right now he was and she was making him that way. She was hurting him. Odette looked away from Synn and down to his wrist that was just willing and eager to take the sacrifice that she was pondering. Bringing her left hand that held the knife over towards her right wrist she could hear Synn’s voice over and over again in her head “He will be healed.” “He will be healed.” Turning back up to Synn she nodded as his voice finally pricked her ears again.

Synn: Only you can take away the bacteria that flows through his veins.

His words were like a nod of approval, turning back to her wrist and the kitchen knife Odette closed her eyes before setting up blade down upon her skin. At first as the blade glides across her skin like butter it stung, but a sudden relief had overcome her body as Odette truly felt that this was going to help the man that she still loved. The stinging had intensified and the pain was now excruciating as she continued to let a mixture of blood and mixed up memories seep from her veins. The saddest thing was she was now starting to believe that she deserved this, all for the sake of saving him. The feeling of her blood rolling down her arm felt like burning hot lava as she released a build up of love, desperation, greed and hate. All for him, she was doing all of this for Gabriel.

Odette let out a loud scream as she felt a splash of water roll down her arm, quickly looking down she saw burning hot water from the jug rolling towards her elbow. Placing the jug down the Aussie started to look at her wrist in a panic, looking for any signs of possible cuts or self abuse. Looking up at the window she saw nothing just the darkness from the night sky, he was gone... well to be honest he was never really there to begin with.

Odette: Don’t let him in, stop letting him in... STOP JUST STOP!!

Dropping instantly to the floor, Odette tucked her legs into her chest and held on for dear life. He had made her feel so insure in the one place she was finally starting to feel at peace.

A few hours later Odette can be found running, she hasn’t slept at all from last night and has already started to kick in for training mode, after all she’s facing the fearless Roxi Johnson this week she will have to be on the top of her game. Odette sticks to the path that leads up into a nice tropical rainforest just a few minutes away from her home she lets the worries from lash night drain from her body with every droplet of sweat that pours from her body. Jogging up around the corner the Aussie picks up her speed intensifying her work out. Suddenly a cold uneasy feeling suffocated her, for some reason she felt like she needed to be on high alert. She could hear twigs and sticks breaking around her but as she looked down at her feet she noticed the path was completely clear, a sick twisted feeling arose in her gut and compellingly took hold. She was being followed.

Pushing past trees and bushes, Odette couldn’t stop she didn’t want to stop as the branches and twigs raked past her skin cutting her wide open. Every inch of her body warned her of danger, as more and more she felt like he was the predator stalking his prey. She could hear his footsteps right behind her but for some reason even though she was running her heart out he was just going on a leisurely mid morning stroll.

Gabriel: You can’t run forever Odette, you’ll know I’ll find you.

His voice was taunting her as it sounded cold as ice, he wasn’t even running her wasn’t even chasing he but he was right there, right behind her.

Odette: JUST LEAVE ME ALONE.

Her voice was dark and raspy as her vocal cords were being strangled from the fear in her body. In fact her whole body was tense as she tried to run away from him. Ducking and weaving between trees she felt her yoga pants get caught on a rock, tearing them. Running up towards a cross roads in the path she struggled with which way to go, setting off towards the left she almost buckles under the pressure as her legs don’t want to hold out for much longer.  As her legs stretch out and pound the ground below her she desperately tries to make it towards somewhere any where away from him.

Gabriel: Stop running Odette, I just want to talk.

His voice almost sounded believable but she couldn’t and wouldn’t let him win, not this time round. As she was nearing a clearing in the forest, she could feel the cool breeze coming up the mountain side against her skin. In all her confusion she had gone the wrong way, she had gone up the hill not down and now he had her trapped towards the look out. Unsure of what to do Odette ducks off into the thick of the scrub looking for a way out. Stopping for just a few seconds she looks up and around trying to find a way out but it’s as if the whole world is spinning. Shaking it off she runs down to the right trying to escape the feeling of him there but as she rounds massive tree her shoe gets caught up in its root system causing her to trip over. Odette catches herself on the fall, her hands slam into the dirt as her knees get grazed by the tree roots and rocks. She tries to make her way up to her feet to push on but she can’t, she can’t move. A sickening feeling cries over her face as she realises that she’s trapped, he has trapped her once again. Hearing Gabriel make his way over towards her Odette closes her eyes and waits for the onslaught that’s soon to follow.

Gabriel: Odette baby are you okay, are you hurt?

Looking up from her spot on the ground Odette screws her nose up at him, did he really just call her baby or was she just flashing back to a time in her life where he would have cared about her? Dropping to his knees down in front of her Gabriel has a look of intent in his eyes as he reaches out to hold her?

Gabriel: ARE YOU FUCKING HURT?

She was wrong so wrong. Both of his hands come around her throat as he forcefully wraps them around it, crushing her wind pipe together. She had just dreamt it was Gabriel from when they were together. She wanted it to be him, she had missed him, every day she wanted to tell him but she knew the price wouldn’t be worth the risk. As he guided her attention up to his face he dragged her up, slamming her forcefully into the tree. Her spine made a crushing sound on impact. As he looked into her green eyes that were filled with sorrow he knew that she was hurting, he knew that she was minutes away from passing out and he took pleasure in it.

Gabriel: Who’s going to save you now Odette? Where’s Steve now? That’s right your useless to him now, he’s finished using you to get what he wants in that stupid blast from the past tournament... what did you think he was really sticking up for you because he liked you? No one likes you Odette... because they know I’m right, they know your hiding behind a glass wall...

His fingers dug into her throat cutting off her breathing, Odette was just forced to look up at him lifelessly watching him grin as her breaths drew near.

Gabriel: You thought I wouldn’t find you here? You thought I wouldn’t find your secret hide out? When are you going to learn Odette that I know everything about you I know who you really are and the best thing is I don’t even have to be anywhere near you for me to be able to control you.

Bringing his face into hers Gabriel was shouting at her, while she just looked up at him. Her eyes turning more and more blood shot with every passing second, he was suffocating her. He was killing her.

Gabriel: Yes Odette, I control you... I can manipulate your feelings, I can clutter your emotions and I don’t even have to be in the same fucking country as you. You wanna know why Odette? Because I’m in you... I’m all you want, I’m all you desire and that lead you to be sick and weakened by it... you need me to function, you need me to breathe... because you know without me you’re nothing... you’re just another mindless fuck.

Drawing his face in closer to hers she could feel the steam that was radiating from his hate on her skin.

Gabriel: Before me you were this polite little girl with hopes and dreams, pure and innocent then finally when I fell for it all after you finally pulled me in, you sucked me dry took everything you could. You demanded money, cars, fame and fortune... as soon as the going got a little tough you spat me out... I’m not hurt because you left me Odette, I’m hurt because of my own misjudgement... this isn’t about me still wanting you, because I don’t... this isn’t about me still loving you, because I never did... this is about airing you out and showing the world how fake you are...

Letting go of her throat he pushed her back into the tree before getting up off the ground to dust off his knees. Odette slipped down the tree and tipped to the side as she grabbed at her throat trying really hard to suck in some air.

Gabriel: Next week Odette, this ends... next week Odette I finish you off.

Within a blink of her eyes he was gone and she was once again left alone. Looking up and around at her surroundings Odette quickly looked down seeing that she was right at the cliffs edge. Stumbling backwards she fell to her knees grazing them. Looking down at the damage she held onto her chest trying to steady her breathing. He had completely ruined her on the inside she was no longer the happy go lucky girl. God knows what he has in store for her next week, but as of right now Odette needed to get back home and find safety there.

***

Odette: Roxi Johnson, now there’s a name I haven’t heard in a while.

Opening up we find Odette sitting on the white sandy beaches of Mexico, she’s looking towards the camera as it quickly catches the end of an over dramatic eye roll. Surrounding Odette was nothing but peace and quiet, only the sounds of the waves lapping the shore were heard as she was completely alone, she was in paradise.

Odette: It’s like no matter what I do in Sin City Wrestling, I can’t seem shake you. You’re like the dog with a bone just unable to let go of the situation you have built up for yourself in your own damn mind or is it Cyrus who is misguiding your judgement? You see last time we faced each other you apparently had nothing pleasant to say about, just a whole lot of lies about me forcing myself upon you. Did you ever think with all your words about how much I have done to you, how desperate you really seem Roxi? You’re right tho, I am your brick wall, I am the force that stops you, I’m the master villain in your life that holds you back, defeats you, conquers you time and time again... I’m your shadow Roxi that will always surround you over bearing light.

A playful smile crossed the Aussie face as she rested back on her palms. Rocking backwards she let her long natural hair fall down around her back. Her body was only covered by a tiny purple bikini and a see through wrap was hugging her hips.

Odette: But I seem to be facing a completely new Roxi next week, I seem to be getting the Roxi that has always wanted to get out and roam the streets but she has always been held back by fear. Fear of not being loved and fear of not being wanted. Is this meant to intimidate me Roxi? Is the new deep dark Roxi Johnson meant to have me shaking in my boots? Pathetic, just pathetic and you have the audacity to call me an attention seeker, yet have you looked in the mirror lately? Have you truly taken a good hard look at yourself? You couldn’t get your voice across, you weren’t getting an attention so let me guess you reinvent yourself? Ah yes a typical move you know doubt can find in the jealously handbook.

Odette smile didn’t leave her face as she just continued with her promotional.

Odette: Yes I might have made a grand entrance into the Blast from The Past tournament, yes this move might have pissed off one or two people, but what was a girl to do when she had Mark Ward, Erik Staggs and Christian Underwood blowing up her phone, asking her to come back because they not only needed the numbers, but because they needed her. Oh yes Roxi Mark, Erik and Christian asked me to come back because they missed me, because they wanted me here, they wanted to see me return and they knew I would do what you couldn’t and that was draw in the crowds.

Running her right hand through her tangled curls Odette’s lip curled up at the side as she smirked.  

Odette: After all Hot Stuff doesn’t call me his money maker for no reason... but let’s get one thing straight I didn’t just return so I could blow my own trumpet, I came back because Sin City Wrestling needed me back, the fans wanted me back... who am I to stop that? So I made sure I was well rested, I made sure that I was physically and mentally ready for a comeback and within days I had signed my name back on the dotted line. However instead of being greeted with love and respect from all of my peers I now I get to listen to mindless band wagoners like yourself, like Casey Williams, like Synn, like Misty, Like Delia and her little band of followers believe in the hype that Gabriel’s creating, about him truly knowing me. So like the sheep that follow the Sheppard, naturally half of Sin City Wrestling now agrees that they know the true Odette as well.

Shrugging her toned shoulders Odette just brushed it off.

Odette: Oh my God, the originality in that fact alone is nonexistent... but continue to tarnish my name Roxi, I mean whatever helps you get over the real hate that you have for me. It’s not because you agree with Gabriel, It’s not because I returned... it’s because you can’t beat me, you haven’t beaten me... and for a superhero to not come out on top that must be crippling? Or wait a minute are you even a superhero any more Roxi, or did you forget about that way of life and gave up that style the moment the green eyed monster inhaled you and took over your body?

Winking Odette just coolly smiled, feeling at peace again in Mexico.

Odette: I keep getting asked by fans, on how we can save you, or if you can be saved? At first I was willing to help try because trust me I know what the pull from the dark side can do to a woman, but the more I sit back and watch you, the more I witness what Cyrus is making you do and you’re so eager to lap it up... I don’t want to help you. In fact I would rather watch you consume yourself with bitterness, where you get to the point of self sacrifice... because the true Roxi Johnson wouldn’t let it get that far now would she? A true superhero wouldn’t be so blind to see what’s really going on in front of her.

Turning the tables on Roxi the sarcasm dripped from Odette’s tone, she was playing their game.

Odette: Everyone keeps saying that the New Roxi is going to unstoppable and unforgiving, but I think she going to be like a child playing with a rifle not knowing whether to place it at her temple or to hold it up and point it at someone. Clearly you just need rescuing, but where do the superheros go when they need to be protected, where do they go when they need to be saved? Two valid questions, that I simply don’t give a flying fuck about.

Cue her trademark smile Odette couldn’t help but to laugh.

Odette: Come Blaze of Glory, I’m not going to sit here and repeat myself over and over to you, you know what I’m capable of and you know that I’ll just do it time and time again. You and “Big Tiger” can only dream of coming anywhere near Steve and I. You see after last week’s edition of Climax Control you could say that I was treated like a dog and dragged through the mud or you could see it as this... it was a huge wakeup call Roxi, and now every single person that has teased, mocked or belittled me will find their selves at my mercy. Why? Because when you are mocked and painted up as something that is nothing more than a lie, you find that all that hate turns into drive and motivation to prove everyone wrong. I will prove everyone wrong about what they think of me, and that all starts at Blaze of Glory three when I step inside the ring with you once again, and I prove that spreading lies and rumours is just another way for inviting in another loss.

Tapping the side of her head, she continued.

Odette: Think about it Roxi, you asked for this... so who am I to deny you from what you truly desire? You want to be the bad girl, so I’ll give you another reason to milk this I’m so hard done by attitude for a week longer. After the match I hope you finally realise that no matter what side of good and evil you’re on, it will never be enough...

Shaking her head from side to side The Aussie started to wrap things up.

Odette: See you next week Roxi Johnson and May the better team win.

Mouthing “Steve and Odette” to the camera the Aussie just smiled as she stood up and walked off. The camera focused on her long silky legs as they walked off, leaving the world of wrestling behind for a few more days to capture her thoughts.  Panning down to where Odette was sitting two words could be seen written in the sand, “Let’s ride.”

[Christian Underwood]

 The first RP Period has passed. Everything posted after this counts toward the second RP Period.

[Steve Ramone]

 The third annual Blaze of Glory event was drawing near and, as mentioned last week, the team of Odette Ryder and Steve Ramone where screwed out of what Steve felt was their rightful place in the finals of the Blast from the Past Tournament, the fact that the SCW Heavyweight Championship is being defended in the finals just drove the stake further into his heart.

But Steve didn’t have the luxury of focusing of what might have been as he and Odette were teaming up one last time to take on Roxi and Jeremiah a few matches before the final match in this year’s tournament, not only that but Steve had to be constantly looking over his shoulder in fear of Gabriel interfering again wasn’t helping matters but can Steve and Odette win?

The streets of Long Beach, California
March 25th, 2014, 11:00am

What have you done? What have you done? What have you done now?

Confused? Those are lyrics to the Within Temptation song “What Have You Done” which features Life of Agony vocalist Keith Caputo in a duet with the lead singer, why am I bringing this up? Well for one thing it’s playing on my IPod and I think the lyrics perfectly mirror the situation between Odette and Gabriel and I’ve been getting into the band’s music ever since I stumbled upon my new theme.

Yes, I know that the “male” singer has since come out as a transgender but I wasn’t drawing comparisons between the singers on the sing and Odette and Gabriel, if I was then that would make the whole situation about ten times as awkward.

Anyway why am I out in the streets of Long Beach, California? Do I really need to explain that? It was to clear my head and try to forget about the whole Gabriel situation but as you can tell it’s not exactly helping, still, I’m out and about now so I may as well chill out whilst I’m out here and as long as I don’t bump into anyone from SCW……

“Hey Steve, what’s up?” I just had to jinx it, didn’t I? I sighed before glancing over and seeing Jessie Salco, her brother Jake and her partner Shane running up to me.

“I’d be better if Gabriel would just crawl back under whatever rock he came out of and stay there for the rest of his life.” I grunted as I removed and pocketed my earphones alongside my IPod. “What about you? I heard your attending another concert in London next week.”

“Yeah, Devildriver’s playing at the Electric Ballroom.” Jake responded with a nod. “Sylosis and Bleed from Within…..” Jake trailed off as Shane groaned. “Are supporting.”

“I only know Devildriver from their set at Bloodstock, or what I watched on the stream at least.” I responded as I shook my head. “What’s with Shane?”

“Bleed from Within’s a Deathcore band.” Jessie responded and I winced. “Sylosis are a really good neo-thrash outfit from England though.”

“Send me a link to some of their stuff, but I’m guessing you guys will be at the bar for Bleed from Within’s set?” I asked and they nodded without hesitation. “So enough about your trips to England for a moment and tell me, what are your plans for Blaze of Glory and the African tour? Traveling back and forth from Africa and England won’t be cheap.”

“We know fortunately there’s a two month break after the show in April.” Jake responded as he brought up his IPod. “After that we’ll be seeing Onslaught/Hatriot/Artillery and Possessed in April followed by Edguy in September….” Jake trailed off as Shane groaned even louder. “Jessie had to threaten to ban him from the bedroom they share to get him to go to that one.” Jake added and I shook my head. “And barring any shows in between we’ll be capping off the year with At the Gates in December.” Wait, what?!

“At the Gates is touring again?” I asked and they nodded, I knew they had a new album coming out this year but there was nothing about a tour. “Who’s supporting?”

“Triptykon and Morbus Chron are supporting.” Jessie responded and for some reason I have a boner right now.  “You should’ve seen Shane when he saw that line-up he practically jumped through the roof of our hotel room.”

“Yeah I bet, look, guys seriously, I’ll pay for your travel to London for that show on one condition, that I go with you!” I insisted and they blinked. “Look, with all the shit I’ve put up with these past few weeks with Gabriel I need a damn good stress relief and that line-up is too good to pass up!”

“We’ll book you a ticket after Blaze of Glory.” Jake responded and the others nodded. “Speaking of Gabriel, how are you handling it?”

“Charlotte and Sophie are safe, at least until I’m done with Gabriel.” I responded as I shook my head. “As for dealing with the emo bastard himself, I got plans for Blaze of Glory!”

“Besides winning your match you mean?” Shane asked and I nodded in response. “I and Jessie have our own plans but we’re not ready to reveal them yet.”

“It’s about your marriage proposal to her, isn’t it?” I asked and Shane looked at me confused. “Kid, the last time you were in this city you proposed to Jessie in a steak house! That was when the Blast from the Past Tournament was just beginning and you haven’t told anyone if she said yes!”

“We would’ve if I was booked on the card.” Jessie responded as she shook her head. “That was Jake’s idea because otherwise we would’ve revealed it at the following Climax Control.”

“Right, you were planning to tell the world in your final promo for Blaze of Glory?” I asked and they nodded. “Can you at least tell your favorite wrestler?”

“Only after your promo and after you promise to keep your mouth shut about it until Blaze of Glory III.” Jessie responded and I nodded before they walked off, I could still see them and as long as I didn’t stray too far from them I wouldn’t lose them, regardless I started on my promo.

“Blaze of Glory III, you know, when I initially signed up for ACW and by extension SCW last year many fans were wondering if I wanted to end my career in a Blaze of Glory, listen, I’m still twenty-six years old and the day that I retire again is the day that I retire for good either because of injury or old age and you know what? I’m feeling pretty damn healthy and unless I woke up aged seventy tomorrow I don’t think I’m retiring any time soon! That said I have a match to win at Blaze of Glory so let’s get to it.”

And first up is Roxi.

“Roxi, I sat down to watch your promo but it wasn’t your promo! It was a promo done for you by that Cyrus asshole! But me and Odette on the other hand, we don’t need anyone to speak for us! We are perfectly capable of speaking for ourselves and so were you before that Cyrus guy entered the picture! If you can’t speak for yourself Roxi then you going to have a hard time against us because you’ll have Cyrus in your ear at all times and you know what that spells for me? It spells you being pinned to the matt by Odette again!”

Next up is Jeremiah.

“I don’t have much to say about Jeremiah because he apparently doesn’t have anything to say himself! What’s the matter Jeremiah? Are you still pissed that your team got knocked out at round one and that you weren’t even at ringside for the decision? Do me a favor and have a chat with Argento about how it feels to fly into my Fearless Shot superkick! You’ll probably fall for the same trick at Blaze of Glory after all!”

It’s that simple.

“For me this is more than just a mixed tag team match! It’s about showing the world what would’ve happened if we hadn’t been screwed out of the spot in the finals currently occupied by Delia and Ethan!”

“Now you know how I feel!” Jessie called out and I shook my head.

“Please, don’t interrupt me!” I responded before picking up where I left off. “What I’m saying is this! If we hadn’t been screwed over by Gabriel, the Mean Girls and an incompetent referee me and Odette would be in the finals of this tournament and I would be competing for the SCW World Championship and you two will be a demonstration of what would’ve happened if we had made it that far!”

And with that I decided to wrap things up.

“Roxi, Jeremiah, you are both very talented wrestlers in the ring but you are facing two veterans of this sport me and Odette! Roxi has already been beaten by Odette in the past and who’s to say that history won’t repeat itself? We were all in Blast from the Past after all! Just remember you two have nothing to fear but fear itself and no one to fear but the team that should be in the finals!”

I went over to the Salcos as the scene fades.