{The scene opens with Roxi sitting at her laptop after she has searched the apartment of Alan Robbins. Roxi continues to look up and search for anything regarding Robbins post-breakout.}

 

Vision – How's it coming?

 

Roxi – It’s not. I can’t find anything on Robbins after he broke out of jail. His apartment was clean. No sign of forced entry, the apartment was a mess but, the guy’s been in jail for so long that you wouldn’t know if he came back or not.

 

Vision – I thought you said the door was off?

 

Roxi – It was. But that wood almost crumbled under my hand touching it, it was so brittle and worn. The whole building was dilapidated. 

 

Vision – Well, I mean, it is hard for convicts to get renters insurance these days.

 

Roxi – Very funny.

 

Vision – Well, maybe you have to go to the prison itself.

 

Roxi – I mean, maybe whoever helped him escape knew where he was going to go, but if the Rejects have him, then we need to find them.

 

Vision – That won’t be easy. It might even be impossible.

 

Roxi – Why? And why haven’t I heard of these guys before?

 

Vision – Because for the most part, they were regarded as a minor threat. We have most of their information, but those who fail out or are removed from Guild may be bitter, but they really don’t have the means to operate. 

 

Roxi – But now there’s a bunch of them?

 

Vision – 35 members that we know of.  But that’s pretty much all we have, names, and old addresses. They were all checked once they were removed, and most of them have moved away or simply disappeared. So, we figure it’s an underground operation, and might be literally underground, but so far, no one has been able to find them, and the strikes have been limited. We rarely even get wind of them until it’s too late.

 

Roxi – But they have, struck?

 

Vision – Yes.  Though kidnapping is not the usual M.O. It’s usually homicide.

 

Roxi – Then they’re should have just killed Alan. 

 

Vision – It makes me think that this could be a red herring, or that Alan is already dead in a ditch somewhere.

 

Roxi – But why go to the trouble of kidnapping him, then putting the logo in the wall, if you didn’t want him found?

 

Vision – Exactly. It makes very little sense that they would, unless they either wanted him found, or it’s not the Rejects at all. Maybe someone with knowledge. 

 

Roxi – Or maybe someone... rejected by the Rejects?

 

Vision – That could be as well. I’ll see if I can get you any information on the Rejects outside of that. It is... kind of on a need-to-know basis.

 

Roxi – Well, I’m pretty sure I need to know, Vision.

 

Vision – Again, I will see what I can do, but I will make no promises.

 

Roxi – What’s so top secret about it? 

 

Vision – I don’t really know. All I was told was that it needs approval. 

 

Roxi – Well, that photo is all the proof I have, and that was carved pretty recently. 

 

Vision – It may not be enough.

 

Roxi – I combed that place top to bottom, and I didn’t find anything that would help or hurt the theory. No signs of a struggle and that R carved into the wall. There weren’t clothes scattered or even the jumpsuit. 

 

Vision – Again, I’ll see what I can do based on your report, but that’s all I can do for now.

 

Roxi – Well, I’ll send my findings in and see if I can dig up anything else.

 

Vision – Alright, talk to you soon.

 

Roxi – Thanks, Vision.

 

Vision – You got it.

 

{Vision ends the call from the wrist communicator and Roxi continues to study the photographs she took of the apartment as well as the logo as she types up her report. After a short while, Keira comes into the room, knocking and smiling.}

 

Keira – Hey.

 

Roxi – Hey.

 

Keira – How’s it going?

 

Roxi – About as good as it can be.

 

Keira – That good, huh?

 

Roxi – Yeah.

 

Keira – I just wanted to check.

 

Roxi – Hey... how are you feeling?

 

Keira – Much, much better. I feel like me again, for the first time in a long time. 

 

Roxi – It didn’t wear off?

 

Keira – No. Not yet anyway. Now, I just gotta find something to do with this energy now. I trained 3 times already today and I’m still restless.

 

{Roxi looks at Keira, who has a sly grin on her face.}

 

Roxi – No. I have a lot of work to do. 

 

Keira – What? I wasn’t suggesting anything.

 

Roxi – I know you, you are my wife.

 

Keira – I’m just saying I have way more energy now.

 

Roxi – And you have other things to focus on.

 

Keira – I know, but, maybe that time has come and gone. I did the best I could last week, and it didn’t mean anything.

 

Roxi – It did mean something, you just have build off of it.

 

Keira – I don’t know anymore, I feel like I’m at square one, I’m out of the tournament, and it’s just... frustrating, especially because now, I’m in the mood to fight again.

 

Roxi – You’ll figure it out.

 

Keira – What about you?

 

Roxi – I have a lot of other things on my mind. 

 

Keira – Well, at the least the twins are gone.

 

Roxi – Back to where they should be hopefully.

 

Keira – That’s what Jean said.

 

Roxi – Jean also continues to hit on you at every chance she gets.

 

Keira – But she wouldn’t lie about it.

 

Roxi – Maybe not, but still.

 

Keira – Rox, you don’t have to be jealous of Jean. Yes I... I have some feelings for her, I guess. I’m not going to lie to you, but I love YOU. You know that.

 

Roxi – I do. 

 

Keira – Then don’t get riled up about Jean. She’s just... full of that stuff.

 

Roxi – Fine. I’m just saying, she can’t always be trusted considering she might just have alterior motives.

 

Keira – She’s harmless.

 

Roxi – Not entirely, but let’s just... forget that part. 

 

Keira – Agreed. 

 

Roxi – The point of this, is that you can only control what you can control. You maybe just got dealt a bad hand in facing Dani. Dani is good. You just have to pick yourself up.

 

Keira – Maybe. Maybe not. I don’t know anymore.

 

Roxi – We’ll take some time, think about the future.

 

Keira – Good. But now it seems I have too much time on my hands and there’s so much I want to do.

 

Roxi – Well, what about a patrol later tonight?

 

{Keira ponders this for a few seconds and then shrugs.}

 

Keira – Actually, that does sound like a good idea. I haven’t done one in months. And after the stuff with the twins... it did feel good to be back out there.

 

Roxi – Good.

 

Keira – But what about your stuff here.

 

{Roxi sighs.}

 

Roxi – I’m kind of at a dead end right now. If my only lead is dead, and this new group is real, then we have a bigger problem on our hands and I’m not sure what the best course of action is. But if he’s not dead and this is someone else then it gets even muddier. I hate having to wait around for anything to come up, because that usually means people get hurt, or die before we have a chance.

 

Keira – And did you find anything on Amelia?

 

Roxi – No. No sign of her either. And that’s what’s even worse. Because I don’t know if she has any connection to this outside of the guy who’s missing.

 

Keira – Maybe she killed him.

 

Roxi – That would mean she knows who the Rejects are.

 

Keira – Who?

 

Roxi – Exactly, Vision explained it all but it could just all be a red herring. That’s what makes this so confusing.

 

Keira – I’m sure you’ll figure it out.

 

Roxi – I hope so.

 

Keira – Also, I am hungry.

 

{Roxi smiles and nods, almost laughing at Keira.}

 

Roxi – Yeah, you’re back to normal alright.

 

Keira – I know.

 

{Roxi and Keira head off to make dinner as the scene fades.}

---

{The new scene is Roxi and Keira finally out on patrol together after all the time Keira spent away. They fly around the city, looking over and down as the city slowly fights to come back to life. But it isn't long before they see on a rooftop the giant "R" logo looking painted into the roof. Roxi and Keira instantly fly down, and in the middle of the logo, which appears to have been painted by blood, is a corpse. Roxi and Keira instantly go to the check it.}

Roxi – He's dead.
 

Keira – Smells like it too.


Roxi – Probably a couple of days up here. Out in the sun.

 

Keira – Looks like your little group is real.



Roxi – Yeah... maybe. Alright, well, we need to set up a crime scene, how's this for your first day back?

 

Keira – Hopefully not a sign of things to come...

 
{Roxi and Keira begin to set up their crime scene as the scene fades.}

---

 


 

Hello SCW.

 

I come to you once again and as always content, but not satisfied. I am happy to have won a couple of weeks ago.  And again, against rival Jessie Salco and I haven’t heard otherwise regarding our friendship, so I assume all is well. Then again, it should be that all is well considering that she, despite me winning two weeks ago, will be placed into the Internet championship tournament in a match this week. And while I’m on the subject, it did feel great to hear your cheers again. It really meant a lot to hear you again. Sorry, no more sidetracking. As I was saying about two weeks, ago though I have made my intentions clear, I don’t desire the Internet championship, but the Bombshell’s championship. And I’m a patient person, I’ve never needed to rush, in fact that’s what has cost me in the past, so now, I’m not rushing into a championship match. I said I would earn this chance, and there would be no one who could argue it, or stand in my way. And I meant that, that means I have to take on all comers, and beat them. There is no simpler root to get what I am after. Well, I suppose there are easier routes, apparently if you just ask for it, or you demand it, or you rely on past accomplishments, sometimes, you can get what you want that way. I have never been one to do that, so those roads, I’m not going down.

 

I instead laid this path out, and wanted to see if anyone would try and deny me. And so far, the biggest threats, appear to be doing something else now. And that’s okay. I’ve always been a little unassuming in life. I never seem to be mentioned as someone’s greatest opponents or get talked about like I’ve done anything important. And you know what, that’s okay. Because it just makes it all the sweeter and satisfying when I do what I set out to do.

 

And I know that Amber is watching. I know that Myra is watching as well. I hope that they understand that while their match is going to be important, at the end of the day, I’m still going to be here, still waiting for one of them to emerge, so that I can make that challenge, and nobody will be able to say I didn’t earn it, and I didn’t do what I said I was going to do.

 

Now, maybe some people will argue I didn’t beat anyone of important so far. Char Kwan, Seleana, & Jessie Salco are nothing to sneeze at, but that’s what the detractors will say. I can sit here and challenge Crystal, or Alicia or Evie, or anyone else I really want to. But that’s never been me, and they all want to go through their own things, I guess. But that’s okay, I actually prefer that. Not that I’m trying to avoid them, I’ve already fought Alicia and Crystal countless times, and... well... Evie is something of a wishlist match for me, and now, is just not the time for a match of that magnitude. I have something I’m trying to do, so that is the focus and so that’s where my head is.

 

I do appreciate that Candy was kind enough to book me in this match this week, she has always been so sweet and a genuine friend to me, and to Keira, and I am happy to see her get a nice promotion and get some power and authority. It’s actually really cool to see. Candy has been so great. Does she get a little carried away with the glitter and stuff? Maybe, I guess, I know it’s clearly not everyone’s cup to tea, but I wouldn’t have Candy be any other way. She’s great, even if she gets on some people’s nerves. I mean, not mine, she’s been right there, taking up for Team Hero and becoming a part of it, and never blinking at the crazy stuff she got involved in. That kinda came with the territory, I guess. One day you’re shooting glitter bombs and the next you’re dodging chainsaws and fighting demons. And here I am, rewarded, I supposed with a 4 corners confetti cannon match. Well, I guess, at least it’s not only glitter. It’s gonna be a pain to wash out of my clothes afterward, but that’s a small price to pay when it comes to getting another victory.

 

And apparently, Candy has an issue with my opponent this week, so I’m assuming that’s why the match was made in the first place. Candy wants to see Bea Barnhart lose. It even said so in the match card write-up.

 

So that brings me to Bea, herself.

 

I don’t harbor the same ill will towards Bea that Candy does, although judging by her promotional material for this match, Bea seems to have some kind of issue with me. And I’m okay with that, I know that there’s people out there who just don’t care for me, or the things I do. I get flack almost every week for posting on twitter, but I’ve come to almost revel in it, and at this point, I'm almost disappointed if I don’t get anything. But people should know by now that words aren’t as effective on me as they may think. I will always continue to do what I do, because people enjoy it. I’ve spent most of my adult life doing things for other people so at this point, that’s what I’ll do, regardless of who enjoys it or who gets bent out of shape about it. If Bea is such a person, so be it, it will not take away from what I need to do, and that’s win. 

 

Bea has never been short on her words, and really, her actions speak for themselves. She has been a constant thorn in the side of many people in SCW, always down to bring the fight, and that’s what I expect from Bea this week. I don’t expect a match of skill, I expect a fight. I expect Bea to come at me full force and try and take me down, and I am fully aware, that if I am not careful, Bea is more than capable of putting of hurting on me as much as anyone else she gets into the ring with. But I’ve never been one to back down from a challenge, and that’s not going to stop because someone talks a big game. I’ve been here long enough and seen them come and go, and who’s been more bark than bite. It’s been almost 10 years of me being in SCW. I have become the constant. I have become almost the last original here. People have moved on, and I have gone away only briefly, to focus on raising my son when he was born. Besides that, I’ve been here, putting in the work, but not always all the work needed to get where I should be. And now, after all this time, I have become better each and every year, each and every time I step out from the curtain. I have adapted and overcome more times than naught. I have risen above when the time has called for it. Perhaps this is one of those times.

 

I do not take Bea Barnhart lightly because her record isn’t spotless, heck, nobody’s is. I instead saw and heard the fire and the passion in Bea’s voice as she talked about me, and that is exactly what I want. Because Bea shouldn’t just be laying down for me, she shouldn’t be intimidated by me, she should want to beat me, and help herself. Though the last person to really want to do that, did nothing with it, but I think that Bea would be far more willing to use that to get herself back into title contention. It’s not Bea hasn’t had her share of success, it wasn’t that long ago that she was part of the mixed tag team champions, so it’s not like she’s done nothing this entire time. She has tasted that success, seen her name in lights, and now she’s eager to get back into that spotlight. Goodness knows it can be very intoxicating.

 

But, for Bea, that’s not going to happen this Sunday. Not in the slightest. Will she give me a fight? Absolutely. Will she give me everything she has? I hope so. But at the end of the day, it’s not about the fight so much in this match. This is about touching the four corners and popping those confetti guns, and all it takes is one mistake, regardless of how bad Bea wants it. I know that she knows she’s going to have to pull out all the stops, and be aggressive. That’s great, I want that. I want Bea to give me her best, because it’s going to make the win that much sweeter. Skills and abilities are one thing, but in a match like this, it takes strategy just as much. And I have proven time and time again that in a pinch, I have been able to adapt on the fly in situations just like that. It’s not conventional, but then again, neither am I.

 

This Sunday, I’m going to beat Bea Barnhart and I’m going to collect another victory. And then, I will play this little waiting game and when the time is up, I will be right there, where I’m supposed to be. And Bea Barnhart, will learn like so many others are these days, that you have to obey the rules in my house. I have made this place mine, and if Bea wants to get rowdy and out of hand and mess everything up, she can just as easily be removed and no longer be allowed to be a guest in my house. Once again, I’m going to some house cleaning.

 

I hope that Bea is ready, because I will be. I look forward to seeing all of you in person, once again. It’s good to have you all back. So now, I can say it and it has much more meaning...

 

I will see you all there.

 

{Our scene opens on the Royal Princess Cruise, which will host SCW’s Summer XXXtreme IX show. Roxi is of course part of the show and she, along with Keira and Nate are on board and taking in the sun and the atmosphere of the trip. Roxi is seen talking with one of the cruise’s coordinators and managers.}

 

Roxi – So, you think you could do this for me on the 17th?

 

Manager – Absolutely. We’d be more than happy to.

 

Roxi – Thanks, I appreciate it. I know it’s kind of short notice, but things move pretty fast nowadays.

 

Manager – Absolutely, we’ll get that set up for you Mrs. Johnson.

 

Roxi – Thank you, I appreciate it.

 

{Roxi smiles and soon rejoins her family standing over the railing as they cruise along the open water. Roxi picks up Nate and puts him on her shoulders, drawing a smile and a giggle from Nate.}

 

Nate – I'm big now!

 

Roxi – You're already big. Now you can see the water better.

 

Nate: Uh-huh!

 

{Nate watches the water in amazement and his childish wonder.}

 

Nate – Mommy, can the boat go fast?

 

Roxi – It can, but we can’t go too fast. It’s a cruise so it goes slower.

 

Nate – Oh. 

 

Keira – Yeah, we don’t want to miss anything. There’s gonna be a lot of fish.

 

Nate – Big fish?

 

Roxi – Yeah, big fish, just like you learned about in the class downstairs the other day.

 

Nate – Uh-huh. 

 

Roxi – Do you remember the fish names?

 

Nate – Uh, the whale.

 

Roxi – Uh-huh.

 

Nate – Uh, the shark.

 

Roxi – Good. How about one more...

 

Nate – Uh the...

 

{Keira whispers in Nate’s ear.}

 

Nate – The... fish in... Nimo Nimo!

 

Roxi – What kind of fish is Nimo?

 

{Keira whispers in Nate’s ear again.}

 

Nate – Clown. 

 

Roxi – Very good, clown fish. Did Mama help you get those answers?

 

Nate – Uh-huh.

 

Keira – Would I do that?

 

Roxi – Yes, you would.

 

Keira – He knew. He just didn’t remember. Isn’t that right, Nate?

 

Nate – Uh-huh.

 

Roxi – I know you knew. You’re so smart.

 

Nate – I smart.

 

Roxi – I know, and soon enough, you’ll be in school.

 

Nate – Oh....

 

{Keira and Roxi actually share the same look of wondering where the time has gone after the words come out of Roxi’s mouth.}

 

Roxi – Yeah... school.

 

Keira – Yeah...

 

Nate – Will it be fun?

 

Roxi – Y... yeah. It will be a lot of fun.

 

Keira – For you.

 

{Roxi, Keira and Nate move away from the water on that note and head towards a kiddie pool where Nate is fitting with floaties and his begins to paddle around. Keira sits down next to Roxi with a serious look on her face.}

 

Keira – Thanks for making that as awkward as can be.

 

Roxi – What?

 

Keira – He’s gonna start school soon.

 

Roxi – I know, I don’t like it either.

 

Keira – This is all happening way too fast.

 

Roxi – Tell me about it. It feels like just yesterday that he was a baby.

 

Keira – And... and now he’s not.

 

Roxi – Sure he is.

 

Keira – Roxi, he is clearly not a baby.

 

Roxi – But he will always be OUR baby.

 

{Keira smiles, but it quickly fades.}

 

Keira – I guess that’s right, but it feels like We’ve barely had time to spend with him. It feels like he was a baby one day, learning to walk the next, and then he was a fully functional adult today. Things need to slow down. Or... you know...

 

{Keira holds her stomach.}

 

Roxi – Keira, we’re not going to make up for lost time with him by having another baby. Let’s just enjoy this cruise, huh? I mean, we’re here, Nate’s here, this is where we have family time. This is where we have time with Nate, so let’s use it instead of worrying about how much time we don’t have. Because you know what that is? More time lost.

 

{Keira sighs.}

 

Keira – I guess you’re right. 

 

{Keira wades out to the middle of the pool and begins to help Nate swim and splash around with him, clearly meaning to enjoy the time together with Nate as the scene fades.}

 

---

 

{It’s later that night and Keira is on the port side of the side, staring off at the stars. Roxi comes up behins her and puts her arm around Keira and kisses her on the side of the head.}

 

Roxi – I hope you are enjoying thing.

 

Keira – Yeah. I am. For the first time in a while, I am enjoying most of this. Key word, Most.

 

Roxi – I know. But twitter wars aside, if you’re enjoying it, that’s what matters to me.

 

Keira – Nights like this certainly help. Where’s Nate?

 

Roxi – Asleep. He’s in the cabin, all tuckered out. 

 

Keira – Good. I’m sure he enjoyed the day and this whole thing.

 

Roxi – He’s learning, getting to play and see things he doesn’t normally get to see.

 

Keira – He’s been on this cruise 3 times already.

 

Roxi – That doesn’t make it any less exciting.

 

Keira – No, I suppose not.  What about you?

 

Roxi – What about me?

 

Keira – Are you enjoying this cruise?

 

Roxi – Yeah, sure.

 

Keira – That doesn’t sound very convincing.

 

Roxi – I’m more interested in you and Nate having a good time. If you are having a good time, then I am having a good time.

 

Keira – You sure?

 

Roxi – Sure I’m sure. I’m with you and Nate and on a cruise in sunny amazing weather in the middle of the ocean. This is great.

 

Keira – Alright. I just wonder about you sometimes.

 

Roxi – Me?

 

Keira – Don’t give me that, Roxi. I worry about you all the time. I worry you push yourself, and with what you’ve been saying lately, I just worry that competitive fire is taking away from your happiness.

 

Roxi – You know me, Keira. I’m always competitive. But I’ve been enjoying this whole time, and seeing Nate grow and mature. This has been great. And tomorrow will be even better. There’s just a lot to do. But there’s always things to celebrate}

 

Keira – You’re right. Let’s enjoy it.

 

Roxi – Together.

 

Keira – Together.

 

{Roxi and Keira share a kiss as the scene fades.}

 

---

 


 

 

As I sit here, part of me wondered why I was even going to bother with this.

 

I mean, it’s pretty clear to me that Char Kwan is going to do exactly what I thought she was going to do and not bother with me. You know, the completely disrespectful route. I mean, I simply ask for a little bit of work put in, not much, don’t work yourself up so much that you just go overboard, but a little effort. Just some tried and true effort to try and make this interesting. Give me a challenge for this match and every match I have. Test me. Show me what you have to offer. I’m always up for that, and this was not going to be an exception.

 

But, having been met with silence, I sit here disappointed. 

 

So, I thought about it, and well, I didn’t really want to do this. I didn’t want to come in front of you and waste your time by saying I’m going to beat Char Kawn, and that this match will be a great competition of two world-class athletes. I said that already and I am a firm believer in not giving you the same speech twice. I am a firm believer in changing it up and not having talking points guide my answer like some people do around here. I was hoping to have something to work off on, some good back and forth. But it seems I’m gonna have to be Milhouse on the Simpsons and throw the frisbee to across the yard, run over to it, pick it up, and throw it back to where I came from to get some action. So, I figured yeah, why bother? Why should I put in the even more work when my opponent doesn’t seem interested? There’s no tweets, there’s no video material, there’s nothing, at all. So, I thought about it and I began to wonder why should I set up that camera and press record? There’s literally no reason to. I should just sit here and enjoy this cruise and not worry about it. I should just kick back and relax with my wife and son and really get to see what there is to do on this cruise and not concern myself with someone who doesn’t have the decency to try. There was so much potential here, and now it’s all gone and that’s a bummer.

 

So, you may be wondering why I am here, right now? What changed my mind? Well, it’s simple really. First, my respect for all of you, changed my mind. You, my friends, family, and fans deserve more than what you’re getting from everyone involved here. I’ll admit, even I wasn’t really thrilled or impressed with the material last week, but when you aren’t given much to work with, you have to make do with what you have. And that’s what I tried to do. You are owed that much at the very least. So, it is my obligation to you and what you deserve.

 

Second and most important, is that I set a standard for myself to not let anybody here simply sneak one off me because I let it slide. I’ve done that far too many times and I’ve paid the price for it. No, at this point, I’m here to get back to the top. I am through sitting on the sidelines and wondering where my next chance will come from. I have put in the work for almost 10 years in SCW alone. And now, I’m done simply letting things happen and hoping for an opportunity. I am taking them back, and that means, there is no easing back in my chair too much during this cruise, because while this is fun for the most part, this is still work. This is still my job, and I will not let it slide simply because my opponent doesn’t care. I care, and that’s all I need. My job is to eliminate the competition that is placed in front of me, so that’s what I’m going to do. One by one, until I am contending for a championship. And really, not just any championship. Because while I consider winning the Roulette championship something of an incomplete task, and while the Internet championship is possibly going to be vacated, it’s really not what I’m after. And I’m just not interested in mixed tag championships, there’s only one championship I want. And that’s my goal. So, if Char Kawn believes that I’m going to take it easy because she wants to take it easy? She’s got another thing coming. I will not take any shortcuts or cheap wins. All I’m going to do, is win. I will not be denied heading towards what I want. I will get to the top of that hill, one more time, at the very least. 

 

And then, maybe I can hold onto it for the next two years and erase any old records that exist. 

 

Wait, no, I don’t really fancy a bunch of record-breaking, it’s not my style. My style is winning and that’s what matters to me right now. I will show every single person that SCW is my house. And I’m done letting people come in and just take up space in my house and dirty it up. Not anymore. I tried to be a welcoming host, but now, people have overstayed their welcome, and aren’t contributing. So, it’s time for some house cleaning, and that starts with Char Kwan.

 

So yeah, I’m doing this, to show everybody else, that there will be no free rides anymore. I’m coming to take the bombshell’s championship, and if you get matched up against me, you will have to wrestle the match of your life to stop me. No matter who it is, there is nobody that’s going to get a free pass from me. It is time I take charge and get back to where I belong.

 

I will see Char Kwan, and all of you, Sunday.

{Our scene opens at a park. Still not too many people inside the park given the pandemic, but there’s a few dog walkers and some folks out enjoying the fresh air, including Roxi’s dad Paul, sitting on the park bench, feeding the ducks near the pond. Roxi soon walks up behind him, smiling and calling him name.}

 

Roxi – Hey dad.

 

{Paul turns around, eyeing Roxi suspiciously.}

 

Paul – Hey, there’s my baby girl! Well, one of them anyway. 

 

{Paul stands and father and daughter embrace.}

 

Roxi – I wouldn’t leave you hanging on Father’s day.

 

Paul – I know you wouldn’t. Where’s your sister?

 

Roxi – I figured she would have already sent you a card.

 

Paul – No, I haven’t gotten anything aside from you, right now.

 

Roxi – How are you feeling?

 

Paul – I’m okay.

 

Roxi – I really wish you come stay at home.

 

{Paul sighs.}

 

Paul – I like to just be at peace, being around the family, I just feel like a burden.

 

Roxi – That’s silly, Dad. You’re not a burden, we would not have done this if it was a burden. In fact, I always tried to respect your wishes and leave you to what you wanted to do, but we had to try. 

 

Paul – You didn’t have to. 

 

Roxi – I owe you that much. You took care of us after Mom left and she came back and now she’s doing great at the house. 

 

Paul – It’s just... it’s been a long time.

 

Roxi – Dad, you are always welcome to be at home with us. That’s never going to change. It is a little awkward, yeah, but you know what? That’s okay. I’m willing to deal with it if you are.

 

Paul – That’s not for me, anymore. I did the best I could with you girls after your mom left, and I can say I’m proud of that fact. I’m proud that I did, what I thought I was supposed to do. What I thought was best. I tried to raise you both to be good people, and respectable young ladies. Now, I didn’t think you’d both be pro wrestlers, but you did it, and you both did it well. For that, I am extremely proud of you both. But that’s what I was supposed to do. I don’t need the praise for doing what my responsibility was. I took care of you, you shouldn’t be taking care of me.

 

Roxi – I’m not going to sit here and have you say that you don’t need these things. You deserve some recognition for Father’s Day, it’s a holiday for goodness' sake. I got you a card and everything. And I’m trying to force you to come live with us, but you ARE a part of this family. A big part in fact. One of the most important parts. Without you, I don’t know where we would have ended up. You were strong enough to raise us back then, But coming home isn’t a sign of weakness, nor is it a sign that you need to be taken care of. It’s just that we want to know that you’re okay. I don’t like the fact that you’re just staying in the retirement home and sure, they’ll call us, but for what years we have left, I want to know that my dad is okay.

 

Paul – I am okay. 

 

Roxi – I heard it the first time, but you don’t need to face the rest of this alone. You taught us that we were stronger together, and I’ve lived that my whole life. And all I really want now, is to know you’re happy.

 

{Paul doesn’t say anything for a moment, reaching down and tossing bread to the ducks. He looks back up at Roxi, closes his eyes and sighs}

 

Paul – You know, at the beginning of this, I was trying to act like I knew if you were Roxi or Nicole, and I really didn’t know. But now, it’s pretty clear that it’s Roxi, because Nicole would given up on this conversation a long time ago.

 

Roxi – Sorry, I’m stubborn, like my dad.

 

{Paul smiles a bit from the response, he even goes into a chuckle.}

 

Paul – I see what you did there.

 

Roxi – I’m just saying Dad, you didn’t give up when Mom left, you can be right where you left off and back home with all of us.

 

Paul – Nicole is on her own, I can be on mine.

 

Roxi – Nicole also travels the world like her name is Columbus.

 

Paul – And I’m right here, I’m always right here. Look, Roxi, I didn’t give up on the family. I didn’t give up on trying to make things work, but I also know that on your mother’s side, there’s a lot of regret,, and she’s the one that needs to make up for that. She’s the one that left and needs the time to spend with you and your sister. I... I just have my own emotions on this and I don’t want to drag up the past to bring back painful memories. Your mother relapsed into alcohol before, after spending all that time to get clean. What you have to understand now, is that those memories, all coming back with me in her life or even around, could imbalance things. None of us want your mother to have to fight that demon again. I almost lost her, and both of you girls to that. I don’t want to risk losing it again.

 

Roxi – Dad...

 

Paul – No, Roxi, I’m not going to be swayed or told what I’m doing is wrong or right. I believe a man should do what he knows best and being a close advisor to you and your sister and your family is what’s best for me. I’m not totally gone. I’m not going to walk away from you and leave you with nothing. I’m here to be here when you need me. And that’s final.

 

Roxi – But...

 

Paul – Don’t argue with me, Roxi, I’m your father.

 

{Roxi finally concedes that her father isn’t going to budge on this and she nods.}

 

Roxi – Yes, dad.

 

Paul – Thank you.

 

{There is a moment silence between them that seems to break the tension.}

 

Paul – Roxi, you and your sister have made me very proud with how you have done things in your lives. You both turned out to be good people, and that’s all I’ve ever really wanted for you. And you both are very happy, and that makes me happy, because it means I did my job.

 

Roxi – Thanks dad, it hasn’t been going so well lately, but yes, for the most part, we are happy.

 

Paul – Oh? You’re not happy? Why not?

 

Roxi – Just things professionally.

 

Paul – Roxi, I’ve watched you enough times on TV to know that you can do pretty much anything you set your mind to. 

 

Roxi – I know, but lately, it just seems like things are... at like a crossroads

 

Paul – So chose a path.

 

Roxi – I wish it was that easy.

 

Paul – It IS that easy. You weigh the options and you do what makes you happy.

 

Roxi – Maybe... I don’t know...

 

Paul – The only problem I’ve ever seen you have in your entire life, is that you try and do everything for everyone else, and you don’t put your own choices first. In a lot of ways, that’s admirable. But you can’t always think like that. Sometimes, you have to do what’s best for you. And that’s not a bad thing. It never has been. 

 

Roxi – I just don’t want to make that mistake.

 

Paul – Life if full of mistakes, Roxi. You’ve been around long enough to know that. You know how good you are, you just need to show people, and not be afraid of your own success. 

 

{Roxi thinks for a moment and then nods.}

 

Roxi – You’re right. 

 

Paul – Dads know these things.

 

{Roxi smiles as she hugs her dad and removes a card from her jacket and hands it to her dad. He smiles looking at the card and laughs, looking at the photo of a drawing of people picking their noses. He opens it up with the text reading “You really know how to pick a winner, dad.” with Roxi signing it.}

 

Roxi – Happy Father’s Day, dad.

 

Paul – Thank you Roxi. 

 

Roxi – If you ever change your mind, I am making steaks tonight, in case you want one saved for you.

 

Paul – Hmmm... we’ll see.

 

Roxi – Thanks Dad. For everything.

 

Paul – I’ll be around if you need me.

 

{Roxi once again hugs and kisses her father before wiping away a small tear and beginning to leave.}

 

Roxi – I’ll yell at Nicole to come see you.

 

Paul – Is that a promise or a threat?

 

Roxi – Both.

 

{The scene fades as Roxi walks away and Paul chuckles to himself before going back to feeding the ducks near him.}

 

---

{Roxi has returned home and heads down to the training area to train. She cranks up the intensity and difficulty of training to near max level. She steps into the gravity chamber and begins to stretch and then firing off punches and begins a long painful workout trying to prepare for the match she has upcoming. She just keeps going on and on until finally Keira comes down, wondering what’s going on. Seeing Roxi on her hands and knees, sweating intensely and nearly passing out from exhaustion. She gasps and shuts the machine down.}

 

Keira – Roxi! 

 

{Keira rushes in, but Roxi slowly turns her head to see Keira and an almost annoyed look on her face appears.}

 

Keira – Why the hell do you have this up so high! You could have gotten yourself crushed!

 

Roxi – I just... need a minute.

 

{Keira shakes her head as she helps Roxi up and out of the gravity chamber.}

 

Roxi – I'll be fine.

 

Keira – I didn’t ask, but seriously, you never have this up that high. What are you trying to do?

 

Roxi – Get stronger.

 

Keira – Are... are you trying to -

 

Roxi – No, Keira... I’m... I’m just wanting to get stronger.

 

Keira – Look, You know that the body can only hold so much energy, I struggled with that blue form, you don’t need to try and do that for me.

 

Roxi – I'm... trying... to win.

 

Keira – Win? Win what?

 

Roxi – The fight I’m having... with myself.

 

Keira – Okay... you have either lost your mind or your delusional. I’m putting you into bed.

 

Roxi – I said... I’ll be fine.

 

Keira – Don't argue with me.

 

{Keira assists Roxi in standing up, and almost forcefully makes her go to their bedroom to rest.}

 

Keira – There, I’m not going to have you killing yourself over something silly.

 

Roxi – I said I was okay. I told you I just needed a minute. 

 

Keira – No more training then, at least for now. I’m not always going to be aware that you’re down there.

 

Roxi – You don’t need to worry about me.

 

{Keira shoots a glance at Roxi and shakes her head.}

 

Keira – You sound like your dad.

 

Roxi – Heh... I know..

 

{Roxi slowly sits up and nods before standing up slowly.}

 

Roxi – Fine, we’ll play if your way, no more training for now. 

 

Keira – Good, because the steaks need to go on the grill since I already made the fried potatoes and the corn is boiling.

 

Roxi – Alright, I’ll get to it.

 

{Roxi slowly walks out of the bedroom and Keira follows closely behind to make sure she’s not going to pass out or anything. Roxi walks outside and begins to prepare the grill, getting the charcoal ready before lighting it. There is then a knock at the door. Roxi looks at Keira}

 

Keira – Do you think...

 

Roxi – It could be her. Just be ready.

 

Keira – Of all the days...

 

{Roxi and Keira march to the door, preparing for perhaps an Amelia attack but are surprised when Nicole is standing there with Paul.}

 

Nicole – Oh, uh... hey guys, I ran into this big lug at the park, I was wondering if we could feed him.

 

{A wave of relief washes over Roxi and Keira as they smile at the two family member and let them in.}

 

Roxi – Welcome home, Dad.

 

Paul – Don’t start. Where’s the grill, I need to make sure you know what you’re doing...

 

{The family share a laugh as the scene fades.}

 

 

 

---

 

Hello SCW,

 

I come to you think week and... Something has just been bugging me for a long, long time now, it’s been, I’d probably say over a month. It’s not just been bugging me; it’s been eating at me. It’s just one of those things where you know something is off, something is wrong and you can’t quite figure it out, but you want to try and put it out of your head. You want to try and make it go away, and pretend that if you just focus on something else, that you won’t think about it. But slowly, it starts to affect everything. It’s starts to just make everything a hassle. You can’t find enjoyment in things. Food doesn’t taste as good, when you sit in a chair, you can’t find a spot that you feel comfortable. You toss and turn in bed. Maybe you even itch, like physically. I’ve been struggling with this all this time, and I need to apologize to you.

 

Because I’ve been totally fake, and that’s not something I ever want to be. 

 

It makes me angry just thinking about it. I shouldn’t have just pretended that everything was okay, because it’s not. I’ve been lying to myself, and to you. And really, the reason is, I don’t want to go back on my words I’ve said in the past. I’ve tried to make sure I’m not sitting here hypocritically telling you one thing and doing another. I don’t want to be that person. I’m not going to be that person with the “Do as I say, not as I do” mentality. It’s not for me. And maybe I focus too much on that, but that is important to me. And I don’t want to lie to you, but I have been and I feel like garbage for doing it. Because I hold myself to that high standard. And I have discovered, that I have trapped myself in this box. I have place myself with a set of strict guidelines, and I for some reason, have handicapped myself this entire time.

 

You see, for me, I’ve set up these rules and I’ve tried my best to play by them, and then, when something happens, and I even think that one of these rules comes into question or I have to wonder if I’ve said the opposite or if I’ve veering off the path. Because my path really only has one direction. Forward. There are no turns on my road. I can’t go off that road, because the one time I do, is the time that every single person who doesn’t like what I do, instantly points their finger at. If I don’t have my ducks all lined up, these other people instantly scoop it up. I screw up once, I hear about it for ages. I’m not allowed to make a mistake. I’m not allowed to slip up, and when you start to think about that and really understand it, it’s something I really don’t have to think about. But this entire time, it has caused me to feel some of the most frustration I have ever felt in my life, let alone career.

 

It almost feels like I just inherited a new set of issues after 10 years. Yeah, celebrated 10 years a couple of weeks ago, and now I feel like it’s already like some sort of crossroads. Maybe it’s just me dealing with Keira thinking about life after wrestling that has put this thought in my head and made it a thing that I accepted as okay. I wanted to be a good example for my wife, but not just for her, for many of my friends and family. I wanted everyone to just be okay with things. And maybe that led me to do things and say things that, I know in my heart, were not how I felt at the time. I was masking it and trying to justify in my own mind that it was okay, and the truth was, I really wasn’t okay with it.

 

I have always prided myself on being honest and truthful with everyone, and sometimes it’s blunt, sometimes it’s harsh, but I hoped in my heart that people would know it’s coming from a good place. But then I go and do what I did and it’s still not sitting okay with me.

 

I can’t. I just can’t put on a fake smile at the past month of things. And no, I know she’s listening and I want Keira to know it’s not her fault. She’s making her own choices, and I have to make mine, but I can’t pretend that I’m okay with things. 

 

I am frustrated with not becoming a 3-time bombshell’s champion. I am frustrated with not winning the battle royal a couple of weeks ago. I am frustrated with those two things because I know I can do better. It is MY fault that I didn’t win those matches, because I didn’t do what I needed to do, and then I made it worse because I pretended, I was okay with that, and I’m just not. I should be standing here, as the Internet champion, and it frustrates me that I’m not. I take nothing away from Myra Rivers, I expect better from myself.  And the fact that I just tried to shrug it off because I’ve always said winning isn’t everything, and I know it’s not. Championships aren’t the end all be all of an in-ring career, and I know that. But there just comes a point where all the words and the “Winning isn’t everything” speech I’m giving to myself isn’t cutting it. 

 

I have been sitting here, floundering. And it’s my fault. Here I was making all these cute challenges to Amber Ryan like I deserved them. I don’t. I’m at the bottom and it’s about time I got up off my ass and actually did something worthwhile. I haven’t been a champion in almost two years. I didn’t fulfill what I wanted to do and it’s not an age thing, I am 35, not 85. I have done just about everything there is to do, in SCW, and yet, I don’t feel like I’ve done anything lately. I am always striving to justify this position I find myself in. I don’t want to go down as one of the best, I want to be THE best. It is a selfish desire, and maybe an unobtainable one, but maybe it’s because I don’t ask for it. I want to earn it. And so, the time has now come for me, to being to earn it and do it the right way. 

 

And thus, it brings me to Seleana. 

 

Look, I should apologize right now because I’m been talking about everything BUT Seleana for the past few minutes and the whole match up screen on the SCW website is talking about how I shouldn’t overlook her. And while that’s correct, it seems a little, almost condescending to say that I overlook anyone. I heap more praise on people than virtually anyone else in SCW. I try to build up everyone and Seleana is no different from anyone else. I could sit here and tell you about Seleana and what she hasn’t done and this or that, but I’m just not that person. Because if I did, I would be like everyone else. And that’s not me. Seleana is my friend, and she been my friend for a very long time. I’ve said many times she deserves a medal for putting up with her wife’s antics at times, and how while everyone else calls her Crystal’s shadow, I don’t. I have never called her that, because Seleana has stood on her own for a long, long time. The only problem has always been that Seleana doesn’t get the credit she deserves because she is overshadowed by Crystal, but that’s not Seleana’s fault. Seleana is more than capable in the ring and she has proved it time and time again.

 

I’ve said it a bunch of times, probably more than Crystal about how good Sel can be on her own, but yes there is some validity to her status because of Crystal. It’s an unfortunate side effect of the situation. Seleana is more than capable of beating anyone at any time. She’s got a bunch of wins when people least expected it. She just has the unfortunate distinction of having her wife be in her spotlight for the most important times. 

 

So no, I’m not taking Seleana lightly, because of circumstances that are beyond her control. I know how good she is, I’ve been in the ring with her many times. But that remark also seemed to insinuate I am the favorite and I should win this match by default. Not that I take people lightly, but if I did, and I won anyway, then we could have a conversation about that, but I don’t, so there’s no reason to assume that I take people like lightly to begin with. No, I give credit where it is due, far more than most, and it seems that even now, people are mistaking my kindness for weakness. And maybe, just maybe, that actually has some validity. 

 

I don’t mean to get sidetracked because Seleana is my opponent and I am very much looking forward to getting into the ring with her again and Sunday will be no different from any other time we have wrestled. It’s going to be an exciting match that is worthy of a super card main event when it’s on. But the point I’m making here, is that maybe I am too nice. I mean, if I wanted to, I could sit here and trash everyone on the roster, but that’s not what I’m about. No, my problem, is that I don’t want to do that, and I want and maybe expect the same from other people. So, you know what? If they don’t want to give me respect, I’ll take it. I’m going to now just do what needs to be done, and what needs to be done, is me going through and earning the respect and the recognition I feel I deserve. It’s not malicious, but I’m just so annoyed at this that it’s just time to take matters into my own hands.

 

So, from here on out, there is NOBODY on that bombshell’s roster, that’s going to outwork me. None of these bombshells are going to work harder, be in better shape, and get the best of me because I didn’t do enough. I will do the most, and sooner or later, I will be the most obvious choice to get a championship match. Heck, even though we’re halfway through the year, I’m aiming to be the wrestler of the year. That’s what I’m going for. To be at the top. The very top.

 

Seleana knows I have no hard feelings towards her, nothing about the outcome of this match is going to change our friendship, but this is a match that Sel just happens to be the wrong place at the wrong time. I’m not going to be malicious, but I am going to be intense, because that is what this is about for me now. At the end of the match, I will raise her hand, I will help her up, I will give her a big hug, because we are friends, but I’m going to win this match, no if’s and’s or but’s about it. 

 

I’m going into this match on Sunday already prepared more than before, this is now just a case of me, putting any doubts to rest, and leaving no stone unturned in my preparation for any upcoming match. Nobody, no one single person on that roster is going out prepare me. 

 

I will now begin to separate myself from everyone else. And show you, exactly what I can do.

 

Seleana, you will always be my friend and I love you to death, but Sunday, you’re not going to beat me.

 

I will see you, and everyone else, really soon.

Our scene picks up where we left off with Roxi having returned home after an unwanted reunion with Amelia. She has a look of disgust on her face as she returns through the door and fakes a smile to Keira, who gets up, walking up to Roxi and whispers to her.



Keira – What happened? Where have you been?



Roxi – … The asylum.



Keira – What? What for?



Roxi – Amelia.



Keira growls under her breath.



Keira – That bitch...



Roxi – I know how you feel.



Keira – What could she have possibly wanted.



Roxi – To talk.



Keira – Talk? Talk about what?



Roxi – I don’t know. She just wanted to bring up the past and make me remember when she broke in.



Keira clenches her fist and her knuckles crack.



Keira – Don’t remind me.



Roxi – I didn’t want to remember either, but that’s basically what it was.



Keira – You mean... she just made small talk, about our encounters?



Roxi – Yes. I mean, it’s as if she just... wanted someone to talk to.



Keira – It’s never like that with her. There’s always something. Some plot. Some motive. Some kind of plan.



Roxi – The only thing that struck me the entire time was she... I don’t know she seemed to just accept this whole thing like it was just something normal people do. She seemed fine and content. Hell, the last time we even encountered her she gave up without so much as a fight. She’s been there this whole time, not doing anything.



Keira – Come to think of it, you’re right. It’s like she’s right where she wants to be. She hadn’t done anything in months. She’s got to be planning something.



Roxi – I don’t know what it could be though.



Keira – Wait, that guard that you took down...



Roxi – Coleman?



Keira – Yeah, did she try and escape when he was there?



Roxi – Not that I know of.



Keira – Didn’t other try to escape?



Roxi – The Peek Twins did escape. There were some other attempts but the Twins were the only one to get out.



Keira – That worries me more than anything. She has opportunity to escape. She had to have been at least thinking about it.



Roxi – Maybe, I’m not sure. But if she was, and maybe she was abused by Coleman, but she didn’t care. But then again... she’s never feared death, or any consequence for her actions.



Keira – No, she knows YOU won’t kill her. Anyone else... not so much.



Roxi – You’re not going to do it either.



Keira – So long as she stays far away from me, and far away from here. I’m sorry, Roxi, but if she does anything to try and hurt you, and especially Nate, I will not be held responsible for turning her into a greasy smear under my boot.



Keira has a serious look on her face. Deathly serious as she folds her arms, staring back at her wife.



Roxi – That’s not what we do.



Keira – It’s not what YOU do, Roxi. I’m not talking about killing anyone else. I’m not talking about Haven, or Hammer, just her.



Roxi – I know how you feel. Trust me I do, but that’s not who we are, and that’s not how we do things. She’s in the asylum, and with any luck, that’s where she’s going to stay.



Keira – If she called for you, if she talked to you, she’s going to do something. You know it, and I know it. I can feel it in my bones, and I’m not one to take any threat lightly. You know what she said when we both talked to her last time.



Roxi – That if she was planning something, she’d make sure we knew.



Keira – Exactly, I consider this a warning, and I refuse to walk around, living my life, looking over my shoulder. Especially given how I feel now. If she makes one move, I’m not going to hold back.



Roxi – Look, we don’t know, and she’s in the asylum right now. She is of no threat to us.



Keira – Yet...



Roxi – We cannot think like that. She didn’t do anything and she’s got you on edge.



Keria still stares at Roxi intently.



Keira – Because I know when I’m being threatened, Roxi. I know what she’s done and I know what she’s capable of. So no, I’m not just going to take this random outburst lightly. Not on your life.



Roxi sighs, and pulls Keira in and hugs her tightly.



Roxi – You know I love you, and you know I will always stand by you, and I will do everything I can to keep you, and this family safe. But even if we want to, or we could even justify it, we don’t take lives, and we don’t live in fear. If anything, ANYTHING happens to you, or anyone else I care about, I will never forgive myself.



Keira – And I feel the same way about you, I’m just not going to let it happen.



Roxi – Look.. I... I just want to forget that that ever happened. Don’t worry about it. Don’t let it get to you. We have plenty of other things to concern ourselves with, rather than someone who can’t do anything to us right now.



Keria signs and she looks away and shakes her head.



Keira – It’s not the only thing I’m worried about.



Roxi – What are you talking about?



Keira – Roxi, I... I don’t know how to say this, but, ever since the end of Sin... things have just been so different that... I think I’m getting weaker.



Roxi – Weaker?



Keira – Yes, I’m training just as hard, but I’m getting tired quicker than I normally would. I’m just not feeling as strong as I used to. I think something may be wrong with me.



Roxi – Hmmm... We might need to get you checked out then.



Keira – Maybe, I don’t know what’s going on. I...I don’t want to be a liability in a battle.



Roxi – You’re not. You may just need to learn to adjust, but you should also not train as hard as you do. There is a such thing as overtraining, you know.



Keira – I know the difference. I’m barely getting warmed up anymore and after a solid hour my arms are like Jell-O and I don’t feel like I’ve made any progress. The combat bot actually got a hit in on me the other day. Maybe... maybe... I’m just getting too old.



Roxi – Age is a number, Keira. Nothing more. We’ll see about your physical health, but you know, the last few transformations you’ve undergone, you’ve barely been able to handle them. I think your body may just be getting tired of carrying the amount of energy and power in your body, but that’s just my opinion, I’m not a doctor.



Keira – Sorry if I gave you something else to worry about.



Roxi – You didn’t. I’ll always worry about you, you’re my wife, and I love you.



Keira – I love you too. It’s getting late, and your food is getting cold.



Roxi – Alright, I’ll grab a quick bite and I guess we have some alone time.



Keira winks and does the kitty claw at Roxi.



Keira – Rawr.



Roxi – Not like that.... behave yourself.



Roxi shakes her head and she and Keira share a kiss as the scene fades.





The new scene opens the next night, after Nate had been put to bed. Roxi and Keira are in their bedroom and Keira sits in the edge of the bed, clearly thinking about things as Roxi opens the closet and pulls out her costume. Keira looks at her and lays back in the bed sighing.



Roxi – What’s wrong?



Keira – I feel like sooner or later you’ll be the only one doing that.



Roxi – You can still go on patrol with me, you know.



Keira – I don’t know anymore, I feel like I’d just get in the way.



Roxi – Nonsense, you’re more than capable of handling anything I can. You still have more than enough strength if the situation calls for it.



Keira – But for how much longer?



Roxi – Until you decide to do things like this.



Roxi sighs as she starts putting on her costume.



Keira – I just don’t want to be a liability.



Roxi – Don’t you remember your first night doing this?



Keira – Yeah, I remember you yelled at me for trying to do too much.



Roxi – Right, and you see now, that you don’t make those mistakes anymore? Last time all that was protecting you was a magic sash. You don’t even need it anymore. You’re far stronger than you were then. You’ve learned a lot, you’ve applied it.



Keira slowly sits up and nods, a small smile crossing her face.



Keira – Yeah, I guess I have.



Roxi – Look, if you want to come and do a patrol with me, we can, if you’re okay and you’re that worried about it, I’ll do it myself.



Roxi goes and opens the window to her room, and Keira stands up, a nervous, but confident smile on her face.



Keira – What’s the worst than can happen? If anything, we can take anything down together.



Roxi – There ya go.



Keira slips on her costume and the two soon are flying over the city headed on their regular patrol, checking to make sure everything is running smoothly around it. They fly around, high above and taking in the lit-up city at night, even though things are closing down and there is curfew, and there’s still not too many people out and about at this point. Roxi and Keira make it to the Sunshine skyline bridge, both taking a moment to sit on the bridge and look over the water, and the skyline.



Keira – I forgot how beautiful this all is.



Roxi – Yeah, life gets pretty crazy sometimes, but if you stop and look around, you find things like this.



Keira – Everything just looks so peaceful. It’s been a while since it even looked like this.



Roxi – But seeing it like this now, makes it all worth it.



Keira – Yeah.



The two superheroes are cuddled up on the bridge, until both of their wrist communicators go off.



Roxi – Because of course that happens now.



Keira – Would you ever expect anything different?



Roxi – I guess not.



Roxi answers.



Roxi – Go ahead, Vision.



Vision – Rox, is it just you?



Keira – No, I’m here too. Hi Vision, it’s nice to see you too.



Vision – I was going to say, we may need both of you.



Roxi – Why? What’s going on?



Vision – I wish I knew. We have surveillance footage of Mr. Distinguished near the old waterfront warehouse.



Roxi – Okay?



Keira – The guy who wants literally everything to be fancy? So what’s the deal now?



Vision – I... I don’t know. The footage just shows him as being there, nothing happening. It’s as if he waiting for something.



Roxi – This doesn’t sound like a major emergency.



Keira – I mean, maybe he’s getting set up with something.



Roxi – Or set up for something...



Vision – That's exactly my thought, he’s not doing anything. He’s just... there. Maybe some kind of meeting has been set up.



Keira – I mean, if this is scouting out Mr. Distinguished, I don’t see why we both need to be there.



Roxi – If you want to go, you can go, I’ll check out the waterfront.



Keira – Oh no, I came all the way out here, I’m not leaving when it gets a little interesting.



Roxi nods, smiling under her mask as Keira can see it and smiles back.



Roxi – We’re on it, Vision.



Vision – Right.



Roxi ends the communication and She and Keira head off to the waterfront, and sure enough, they can see Mr. Distinguished, in his easily recognizable top hat, cane, and coat and tails. He is simply checking his pocket watch until Roxi and Keira just land in front of him.



Keira – Okay Mr. Fancy-Pants! What are you doing there?!



Mr. Distinguished is startled at first, but the appears relieved.



Mr. Distinguished – Ah, it’s about time you two tomato’s showed up! Thank the lord you did and I can be done with this mess!



Roxi – What mess? What are you talking about?



Keira – And did you say you have tomato’s?



Mr. Distinguished – No, you troublesome Vamp! I only have this! I have been instructed to give this to you!



Mr. Distinguished reaches into his coat pocket and produces an envelope. He simply hands it to Roxi, who examines it.



Roxi – What is this?



Mr. Distinguished – It's a letter, you wretched ragamuffin!



Keira – Can I hit him?



Roxi – I know it’s a letter, what’s in it?



Mr. Distinguished – I don’t have the sharp claws on that one. I was just supposed to give it to you.



Roxi – Who gave it to you?



Mr. Distinguished – Some other Vamp, I tried to make my play but she gave me the wind I tell ya! But they... they got the the scoop on me... Applesauce!



Keira – Okay... Am I the only one who is just lost, right now?



Mr. Distinguished – You should really get to know your onions, I tell ya!



Keira – And hungry...



Roxi – Why did the give this to you?



Mr. Distinguished lowers his head, turning away in shame.



Mr. Distinguished – They've sent the Bruno. They played me for a mark. I don’t need anyone spilling on me and being a wet blanket for my business.



Keira – WHAT? SPEAK ENGLISH!



Roxi – I think he’s saying he’s been blackmailed.



Mr. Distinguished – And how!



Keira – So who’s the person blackmailing you?



Before Mr. Distinguished can answer, he is knocked back at the loud crack of a gun explodes. Roxi and Keira duck and take cover, but Mr. Distinguished it hit. He’s already laying in a blood of blood, unmoving. His body slumped against the wall.



Roxi – Sniper?



Keira – Did you see anything?



Roxi – No.



Roxi and Keira wait for a few tense moments before Keira begins to peer out of her cover, and slowly makes her way over to Mr. Distinguish’s body, and carefully checks for a pulse.



Keira – He’s dead.



Roxi – Stay down... our shooter may not be finished.



Keira – We don’t have to worry about bullets!



Keira stands up and flies off, looking all around for any sign of anyone being in the area. A quick glance and nothing catches Keira’s eye, she comes back down at Roxi is looking around for any clues as to what just happened.



Roxi – Great... I’m gonna need a light.



Roxi goes into her utility belt and pulls out a very powerful flashlight and begins examining the bullets entry wound on the chest of Mr. Distingusihed.



Keira – That’s a big entry wound.





Roxi – Yeah... armor piercing most likely.



Keira – Let me check around the area.



Keira heads off, looking around the area for clues to try and figure this out. Keira checks for any audio or video equipment, or perhaps any sort of timer or anything that could have triggered the event to occur. She returns shortly as Roxi studies the area and the bullet’s final impact against the wall.



Roxi – Yeah, armor piercing. Judging by the wound and the bullet hole, a very large caliber round, maybe... a winchester or 30.06. Trajectory looks to be....



Roxi traces with her finger and then points where she thinks the line is.



Keira – It was behind us, that’s for sure.



Roxi – Yes, who,ever was shooting could have taken the time, but if I’m right.... hmmm..



Roxi starts walking towards the roof of surrounding buildings.



Keira – You want me to the call this in?



Roxi – If you could... I have a very bad feeling about this.



Keira – I’ll get to it.



Roxi continues to look and study the area, eventually flying upwards onto one of the roofs, and then looking down, but she can’t see Keira due to other buuldings blocking her view.



Roxi – Higher...



Roxi flies up and continues to look around, onto one of the taller buildings that appears to be tall enough, but there are several objects like a glass ceiling, roof balconies in the way again.



Roxi – It came straight through; it can only be.... higher?



Roxi turns and looks up and not much is higher up that isn’t several hundred yards away, which would make the shot a ridiculously difficult one. Keira soon joins Roxi on the roof.



Keira – It’s all called in and the police and the ambulances are on the way.



Roxi – Good.



Keira – Any luck with the shooter?



Roxi – No. This spot at the first one there’s too many things in the way, or blocking the view. So, unless they were shooting from that tower way over there.



Roxi points off into the distance.



Keira – All the way over there?



Roxi – Yeah.



Keira – Why wouldn’t you take an easier shot?



Roxi – That’s the point. That middle tower right down the road over there is about the same size as this building, but the trajectory I’ve mapped would mean it would just hit this building.



Keira – Hmmm... Well, we should check out the building off in the distance at least, but... did you ever look at the letter?



Roxi – No... I guess we can check it out.



Keira – Careful...



Roxi pulls the letter out of her belt and examines it. Checking for any substances the letter could be laced with, and tracing with her finger for anything out of the ordinary. Satisfied, she carefully opens the letter and it’s a computer font letter.



Roxi – Dear heroes, Welcome to open season. I’m going to solve all your problems, my dear hero friends. I’m going to do what you won’t. Turn the animals against each other. I’m going to be a hero just like you. You can choose to be the real hero and join me, or you can become the villains and try to stop me. The choice is yours. I’ll see you at the end of the game. Good luck. Signed, a friend.



Keira – What the hell does that mean?



Roxi – It means someone is playing a sick game. Mr. Distinguished was a bad guy through and through, but he didn’t deserve to die.



Keira – Wait...



Roxi – What?



Keira – The letter said turning the animals against each other. Meaning... another bad guy killed Mr. Distinguished! This person is manipulating the villains of this city of take each other out.



Roxi – And from what Mr. Distinguished said... he was being blackmailed.



Keira – You understood that?



Roxi – I like history, it’s just early 1900’s slang.



Keira – Well... now he’s... been bumped off, I guess.



Roxi – Yeah, but we need to find out who did it.



Keira – To the large tower then.



Roxi and Keira head over to the large tower, the distance is incredibly far from where Mr. Distinguished was shot, but sure enough, when Roxi and Keira land, there is large casing near the edge.



Roxi – This... is where the shot came from.



Keira – And the shooter is probably long gone.



Roxi – We can’t let this go cold.



Keira begins to look out towards the waterfront warehouse.



Keira – Do you have binoculars?



Roxi – Yeah, here.



Roxi reaches into her belt and pulls out some binoculars and hands them to Keira. Keira looks and focuses, shaking her head.



Keira – It doesn’t make any sense how the shot came from here. There are too many things in the way.



Roxi – I doubt this bullet casing is up here via coinsidence.



Keira – The shot is nearly impossible...



Roxi – Let’s look around.



Roxi and Keira begin looking at the area, Roxi using a UV light on her flashlight and finding some finger prints.



Roxi – There.



Keira – Someone was up here, and looks like they were trying to use this railing to steady themselves.



Roxi – Hmmm..



Keira stands and mimics the shooters body position, but shakes her head.



Keira – Even if they were perfectly centered, the shot wouldn’t work. It would have to go through several objects.



Roxi continues using the UV light, and sees a boot print off to the side on the railing.



Roxi – Not if they were standing on the railing.



Keira stands on the railing and steadies herself. She looks through the binoculars again.



Keira – Maybe, but there’s only one boot print. And there’s really very little room to adjust... We’re talking one high level sniper.



Roxi thinks for a moment, and she nods to herself.



Roxi – Quickscope.



Keira – 360 No-scope is more impressive.



Roxi – No... Quickscope, the sniper. He’s a vigilante, hitman for hire. He’s the only one who could possibly have pulled this off. One boot print, and the little amount of room...



Keira – You think he made this shot standing on one foot on this balcony? That’s is a trick shot.



Roxi – Not on one foot... he jumped.



Keira – Jumped?



Roxi – The fingerprints indicate he tried to steady himself, but he didn’t have the angle. But if he was either standing on one foot or... took a jumping shot, he could have done it.



Keira – That would be ridiciulous.



Roxi – He’s that good.



Keira – Even if he was... we’ll never find him now, if he jumped off this roof, or fell off, he’d be a greasy spot on the pavement.



Roxi looks around, and the door to the roof access is ajar.



Roxi – There, he may have left back into the building.



Keira – Great.



Roxi and Keira head over to the door and look inside, and it’s nothing but a dark hallway, leading to the some stairs. Roxi shines her flashlight in, and catches a glimpse of another body. This one is laying on the ground, arms folded.



Roxi – Oh damn it.



Keira holds the door open and Roxi shines the light, looking for a light switch. She finds one and turns that light on, revealing the body in fact belongs to Quickscope himself. His torso, arms and legs have several bullet wounds. The walls and ground are littlered with bullet holes and shell casings.



Keira – Damn...



Roxi – Well... that confirms that Quickscope shot Mr. Distinguished.



Keira – But who killed him?



Roxi and Keira slowly approach the body, his high caliber sniper rifle near his body. His arms folded over his chest, and two pennies covering his eyes.



Keira – Charon’s Obol...



Roxi – Payment for the Ferryman.



Keira – He could have been murdered by a religious cult.



Roxi – There aren’t those around here, that I know of.



Keira –Wasn’t there that one with the guy who wrote the book?



Roxi – Jones... We’ll have to consider it a possiblity.



Keira – This just keeps getting better and better.



Roxi begins to search Quickscope, taking no pleasure in doing so.



Roxi – I’m sorry.



Roxi opens up Quickscope’s Jacket and begins patting him down, inside the coat, is a manilla folder. Roxi pulls it out and hands it to Keira. Keira quickly opens it and begins reading.



Keira – This is the profile of Mr. Distinguished. This looks like the hit order itself.



Roxi – So somebody made arrangements for Mr. Distinguished to be hit.



Keira – Looks like it. Wait, the game... This was all arranged. Someone was blackmailing Mr. Distinguished to give us the letter, and ordered Quickscope to kill him right after the job was done.



Keira quickly goes through the files inside the envelope, and finds a picture of a woman.



Keira – You ever seen this person before?



Roxi – No.



Keira – Why would this be in here it wasn’t related to Mr. Distinguished? There wasn’t a... Mrs... Distinguished was there?



Roxi – Not that I know of.



Keira continues to flip through the thick folder, finding more pictures of people she doesn’t recognize. She looks confused for a moment.



Keira – Who are all these people? Why would...



Keira’s eyebrows raise.



Roxi – There weren’t for Mr. Distinguished.... They were for Quickscope.



Keira – Pictures … of his family... more blackmail.



Roxi – Someone has a lot of dirt, and a lot of leverage on these people.



Keira – Did you find anything of note?



Roxi – Well, looks like Quickscope walked right into this. This was an execution. He’s probably got 50-100 bullet wounds.



Keira – This sick bastard is blackmailing these people into killing each other. So now... what do we do?



Roxi – Well, there’s two suspects to look at, at this point... That Taylor-Jones guy... or Louie.



Keira – The Louse that runs that underground crime ring?



Roxi – The very same.



Keira – Why him?



Roxi – Well, you know that Charon’s Obol is a religious thing. Greeks, Irish, and Sicilians more commonly use this today... Louie is Italian. I don’t think Taylor-Jones is either.



Keira – Meaning Louie may have ordered the hit, because they told him to, and he might be in danger.



Roxi – Exactly.



Keira – Well, we better get going.



Roxi takes a moment to call in to the police and report the next body, before Roxi and Keira continue on and the scene fades.





The scene is now inside Louie’s underground production area, where he overlooks his loyal followers preparing to box and ship weapons and drugs around the city. Louie wears a smile on his face and a nice 3-piece suit, but it’s quickly wiped away when Roxi and Keira bust in through the ceiling.



Louie – Oh dammit, it’s the damn super bitches.



Roxi – Shut up.



Louie – Whoa, what’s gotten into you?! You can’t just come breaking through my walls and my ceilings! I got right you know!



Roxi growls herself as she uses her super speed to race up to Louie and grab him by the collar.



Roxi – You killed the sniper.



Louie – Hey! Hey! What are you talking about! I ain’t do no-UGH!



Roxi quickly slugs Louie in the stomach. She watches him cough and gasp for air in her grip.



Roxi – Don't lie to me, Louie. I know you had him killed.



Louie held his hands up, still coughing.



Louie – Okay! Okay! It was an order! I wouldn’t do it if they didn’t make me!



Roxi – WHO?!



Louie – I don’t know. I got an envelope



Roxi – Where?



Louie pointed to his desk.



Louie – It's on the desk.



Roxi – Check it...



Roxi motioned to Keira, who calmly walked to the desk and looked at the folder.



Keira – Same thing as Quickscope.... a file on the target and the location they would be. It’s a domino effect.



Roxi – Which means you’re next...



Louie – What? What are you talking about?



Roxi – Quickscope has the same type of envelope you do. And he killed Mr. Distinguished.



Louie – Oh... the fancy boy? He got it too?



Roxi – And this is chained together correctly, you are the next target.



Louie – Ain’t nobody getting in here.



Keira – We did, and that means someone else can.



Louie – Who could possibly...



From the outside, two guards walk in with their guns, but soon enough they fall down, both having knives jammed into their back. Stepping forward is Lei, who was Amelia’s bodyguard.



Roxi – Lei?



Lei – I have come to kill this man. Do not stand in the way!



Roxi – Wait... we need to talk.



Lei - THERE IS NO TIME FOR TALKING.



Keira – Hey!



Lei looks over and Keira is already powering up.



Keira – You're going to listen, and we’re going to get to the bottom of this, because we don’t need anyone else dying, tonight!



Lei – If I do not complete this mission, My mistress will die.



Roxi – Amelia?



Lei – Hai.



Roxi – Wait, they won’t kill you?



Lei – They have threatened to kill her.



Roxi – Nobody else needs to die tonight.



Lei – I will not let my mistress die, I will complete my mission.



Louie – Keep her away from me!



Roxi – You must have a folder too...



Lei looks confused as she nods.



Lei – Hai.



Keira – Let me see.



Lei reluctantly pulls the folder from her gear as Keira begins to look through it.



Keira – Exactly the same. Target location of here, and personal information.



Roxi – But the only difference is... you weren’t a target, Lei. Amelia was.



Lei – She is being held in the asylum. They know I am loyal to her to death. I do not fear death.



Roxi – But you fear hers...



Lei sighs and puts her hands on her hips, angrily scowling as she lowers her head.



Lei – I must complete my mission.



Roxi – No, we’re going to pay Amelia a visit.



Lei – But I must!



Roxi – No... I have a feeling your mistress or whatever, is behind all this to begin with.



Lei – You lie!



Roxi – Maybe I’m wrong, but I don’t think so.



Roxi releases Louie and points at the crates.



Roxi – I'll be back for those.



Louie – You ain’t shutting me down!



Louie snaps his fingers and several guards run into the room, guns drawn.



Louie – I took out the sniper, I can have you all taken out too!



Keira finally has had enough of the talking and marches forward, her hand extended, at the crates.



Keira – No more negotiations. You might want to tell your men to move.



The energy grows in Keira hands and the men who were preparing the crates all scatter. Keria the shoots her energy blast and the weapons and drugs explode. Louie screams as if he has been shot himself.



Louie – NOOOO! YOU CAN’T DO THIS!



Keira then grabs Louie herself and jerks him to his feet.



Keira – Pray that I don’t ever come back here and find stuff like that again. Otherwise, you will need the pennies.



Roxi – Come on, we don’t have much time to waste.



Lei – I must go with you! What if they have killed her?



Keira – She makes a valid point. What if the game doesn’t stop with Amelia. What if someone kills her, and this just continues?!



Roxi – Alright, fine. But no funny business, Lei. You make one false move and you will be in jail and you’ll never seen Amelia again.



Lei – Do not threaten me.



Keira – Lady... just give me a reason.



Roxi – That's enough. It’s time we put an end to this little game before anyone else dies.



Roxi leads Lei outside, followed by Keira, who is keeping a close eye on her. Keira holds onto Lei and to Roxi and Roxi teleports them all to the asylum.





Roxi, Lei and Keira end up at the Asylum and march quickly down the halls, leaving to the high-risk cells. Roxi walks up to the guard stationed there.



Roxi – Amelia Lambert.



Guard – She's in the day room.



The Guard walks them down the hall of the cells and past them to the a more open area, complete with a television, several board games and comfy looking chairs. There are two guards in close proximity, along with an orderly. All be herself, sitting alone, is Amelia, playing chess. Roxi, Lei & Amelia, approach her.



Roxi – Why?



Amelia turns and a big grin crosses her face.



Amelia – Oh, hey! I was hoping you might show up!



Roxi – What was the purpose of the lives you help cost tonight? Why did you do this?!



Amelia – I'm so glad you brought Lei.



Lei immediately bows in respect.



Lei – Mistress, I am sorry for this mess.



Amelia – Don't worry Lei, you don’t have anything to be sorry about.



Roxi – Answer the question, Amelia!



Amelia gets a confused look on her face.



Amelia – I didn’t do anything, Lady Bedlam. Not in the slightest. I’ve been here, waiting for my time to expire.



Roxi – Then if you didn’t set up the game, who did?



Amelia – What game?



Roxi – Don't play games with me, Amelia.



Amelia – But I like them... see? Chess is a thinking person’s game, right? You have to be two or three steps ahead.



Lei – Mistress, what is our plan?



Amelia – Lei, I know we’re a team, but we have to be apart for a little while longer.



Roxi – If you aren’t behind this, then who is? Who is pulling the strings?!



Amelia – It's not me. What have I always told you, Lady Bedlam?



Roxi cocks her head, confused.



Roxi – That I...



Amelia – Yes?



Roxi starts to think about what Amelia has said.



Roxi – You're right, it’s not you, Amelia.



Amelia – See! I knew you’d see it my way.



Keira looks confused.



Keira – Wait what?



Amelia – I'm not the one you’re looking for, but I do appreciate you bringing Lei here so we can have a little time together.



Lei walks forward and bows again, as Amelia stands up and hugs Lei tightly.



Amelia – I miss you, Lei.



Roxi’s eyes widen as she figures out what’s going on. She instantly tries to break it up, but it’s too late, Lei begins to groan and spit up blood. Amelia callously begins stabbing Lei multiple times. Roxi breaks it up as Lei stumbles and falls back, clutching her stomach and chest.



Roxi – Get the doctor!



Roxi and Amelia struggle over the knife and Roxi knocks it out of her hand and it falls harmlessly as the Guards rally around Roxi to subdue Amelia. Keira tends to the fallen Lei, who reaches out for Amelia.



Lei – I am... sorry... mistress...



Roxi is able to subdue, Amelia, until Amelia grabs the fire exstinguisher and sprays it all around Roxi and the guard. Roxi backs away, trying to keep the stream of nitrogen and carbon dioxide away. Amelia is able to make a run for it.



Guard – Don’t let her get away!



The guards chase after Amelia as Roxi coughs for a few seconds, her breath taken away. Keira holds Lei as the medical staff arrive. And begin to work on her. Keira then rushes over to Roxi.



Keira – Are you okay?



Roxi – Fine...



Keira – What did you mean when you said Amelia didn’t do it? She just stabbed her bodyguard!



The guards who were chasing Amelia slowly come back in, looking around for her.



Roxi – Where is she?



Guard – There's no sign of her. We can’t let her escape, we thought she might have doubled back.



Roxi – Put this place on lockdown.



Roxi goes to the window and opens it, getting air, but preparing to step out, until Keira stops her.



Keira – You need to explain this to me.



Roxi – Amelia isn’t behind this... She’s just part of it.



Keira – What?



Roxi – That's wasn’t Amelia.



Keira shakes her head.



Keira – What?



Roxi – Amelia knows who I am, she’s never called me Lady Bedlam. Ever. She knows who you are, and you didn’t even get acknowledged. And Lei... obviously we saw what happened there. That... was not Amelia.



Keira – So... where is Amelia then?



Roxi turns and looks back at Keira, even through the mask, Keira can see the worry in her eyes.



Roxi – Go home.



Keira – What about you?



Roxi – I'll be fine. But I need you at home in case anything happens.



Keira – ….



Roxi – Please.



Keira nods and she teleports away. The guards are scrambling around.



Guard – The lockdown... it’s not working.



Guard #2 – Is it a glitch? This is a bad time to need tech support.



Roxi – Have someone keep an eye on the cameras. I need to get to the roof.



Roxi walks through the corridors and notices the elevators are now not operational, and so she races up the fire escape stairwell, the only one leading to the roof. She kicks the door in and heads out onto it. And there, standing on the edge, is Amelia.



Roxi – The game is over.



Amelia – The game is just beginning Lady Bedlam. You have no control over when, or where it ends.



Roxi – I know you’re not Amelia. Knock it off.



Amelia – Why would say something like that?



Roxi – Fine... I guess you’ll need to prove it.



Amelia – This isn’t enough?



Roxi – Not for me.



Amelia – You’re just mad I won the game.



Roxi – You didn’t win anything. Now you have to prove who you are.



Amelia – Pfft. That is a dumb game.



Roxi – It’s easy. What’s my name?



Amelia is visibly flustered.



Amelia – Lady Bedlam, why are you trying to play this game.



Roxi – No, I’m not asking you that. What is MY name?



Amelia – I already told you!



Roxi – You’re not Amelia. Now it all makes sense.



Amelia – You think you figured out the game?!



Roxi – Yeah, I have. The chain started with Mr. Distinguished, but he’s not a killer. Never has been. So, you used him as the start. And the whole chain was based on gathering personal information. Amelia wouldn’t have access to that kind of information. You scared all of those people into doing your dirty work, because you wanted to be a hero. It said so in the letter. And there’s only one person that ever wanted to do that.



Amelia – What are you talking about? Of course, I did.



Roxi – And now, the lockdown of the building, the easy disappearance... You are not Amelia. The game, is over, Cypher.



Amelia stands, hands on hips, and then the angry growl turns into a smile, and Amelia shape-shifts into Cypher, the true form.



Cypher – I have to give you credit Lady Bedlam, you managed to figure it out, a little faster than I had anticipated.



Roxi – People died tonight because your sick game.



Cypher – Only bad people, Lady Bedlam. Only bad people. People cheer when bad things happen to bad people. You must know that. I believe people call it “karma”. It’s an odd belief, but tell me, who is going to miss those men who died tonight? A fool who still believes it to be the 1920’s? A vigilante sniper? A mob boss dealing weapons and drugs? And this insane woman’s bodyguard who will go to extremes to defend her? These are people that this world will not miss. I have, effectively neutralized many of the very same criminals and villains you must be tired of dealing with by now. I have made your life easier, Lady Bedlam. You must see this.



Roxi – There’s nothing but death. The people you have killed tonight could have been rehabilitated.



Cypher – You don’t even believe that, Lady Bedlam. How many times have you fought with these criminals, sent them off to jail, sent them to this asylum, and they escape and the whole pattern starts over again. This is a fool’s errand and your statistical probability of survival drops each time you face theme criminals. Eliminating them now frees up time and manpower your guild could easily use more effectively.



Roxi – And you think that those people dying makes you justified? That is proves some kind of point? This is what you never understood. You have all that knowledge and information, but you’re more machine than human.



Cypher – I simply have the will to do what you do not.



Roxi – You used information to manipulate people, because you calculated that this was a good thing. You turned people against each other for some sick game. You are just a cold, calculating, machine. Whatever human that may have existed once, you have erased. You took lives tonight, and that simply takes a part of your humanity.



Cypher – That is illogical.



Roxi – Maybe, but it’s something that makes me, me, you are as fake as you Amelia impersonation.



Cypher – Enough! I have done the world a great service tonight! I have ended reigns of terror! And if you cannot see that and objectively see the good, you are just as big a problem as anyone else.



Cypher then charges Roxi and the two begin to grapple for a dominant position, but Roxi simply tosses Cypher down.



Roxi – You are outmatched and you’re not going to win. Tell me, how much did Amelia promise you?



Cypher – She simply promised me that chance to be the hero. And I took it.



Roxi – She played you for a fool.



Cypher – You know nothing.



Roxi – I know that she would have gladly left you in this place in hers. She doesn’t care about you. Whatever deal you made, you’re not getting anything out of it.



Cypher – I already have what I wanted.



Cypher charges again, throwing punches that Roxi dodges and then tosses him back again. Cypher then gets up and slips, falling off the edge of the building and catching himself, holding on for dear life. Roxi rushes over and looks down, and extends her hand.



Roxi – Grab my hand.



Cypher – What?



Roxi – Grab my hand, I’ll pull you up.



Cypher – Why would you do such a thing? You have no reason to save me.



Roxi – You’re right, I don’t. But despite all the terrible things you’ve done tonight, this is what I do. Now grab my hand!



Cypher – This is... so... illogical.



Roxi – Come on!



Cypher looks up and grabs Roxi’s arm, and she pulls him up and to safety.



Cypher – Why would you save me?



Roxi – It’s my job.



Cypher – I will never understand you, Lady Bedlam.



Roxi – People are complex. You don’t become a hero by killing the bad guys, or those you deem bad. You become a vigilante. We don’t get to decide who and how and when people should die, simply because they are bad people and do bad things. We are not above the law, and not above judgment.



Cypher – You must see the positive aspects of this...



Roxi – I see people having died to make you feel justified. Killing is easy. And even now you don’t feel for those people. You see what they’ve done, and believe yourself to be right. I could walk into this asylum and kill everyone. I could do that. But then what? Sooner or later, there is no one to fight, there is no one to quench that new found thirst, and then... you begin to justify why you are right in taking lives. And soon, you just start doing it to make yourself feel better. That’s not a path I’m EVER going to walk on.



Cypher – This is – UGH!



Another bullet is fired, this one from the same roof, Roxi looks over and Cypher is hit, down and bleeding. The gun, is being held by the actual Amelia.



Amelia – Congratulations, LB! You figured it all out!



Roxi – Amelia! You were behind this!





Amelia – uh, duh! I told you, you needed to think about me more. And then you very rudely left before we could finish talking. All you had to do was talk to me, and we could have avoided all of this.



Cypher – Why....



Amelia – Oh come now computer boy, It was all part of the game.



Roxi – Cypher was the real final target...



Amelia – Yay! You are so smart, LB! What do you think I’ve been planning this whole time? You think I was silent because I had reformed? You just think you know me.



Roxi – All of this... senseless murder...



Amelia – I know...is it fun?!



Roxi growls as she charges Amelia, but Amelia fires off shots, causing Roxi to dodge. Amelia then rushes to the edge of the roof and waits. Roxi rushes over and grabs her by the collar.



Roxi – You monster!



Amelia – At least I can admit it.



Roxi hears something in the distance, and then looks over to see a helicopter heading straight for them. Gunfire reigns down as Roxi let’s go of Amelia and has to take cover. The helicopter gets closer to the roof and a rope ladder is sent down. Roxi looks up and can see Lei piloting the chopper.



Roxi – One step ahead...



Amelia – Well... it’s been fun, But I’ve got to go... Game....OVER!



Amelia steps onto the rope ladder, and it flies off, Roxi looking to give chase, but turns back to Cypher.



Cypher – I am... sorry...



Roxi – Not as sorry as you’re going to be. She loose now! All because you wanted to play hero! Ugh... We’re going to get you fixed, and then... you’re going to spend every waking movement you have... to help me track her down... Anyone else dies after tonight... it’s on YOUR head.



Cypher – I didn’t know...



Roxi – Dammit....



Roxi helps Cypher up to take him back for medical attention as the scene fades.








Hello again SCW,



I come to again, a week of preparation under my belt and the confidence to know that I can make history in a few days, and that is great. I also come to you with a new understanding of what I have to be able to do. I have to be able to beat someone on a roll. This is not something new to me or anything like that, but it is a sudden change, and well... really, it’s something I seem to struggle with. When I sat back, I made so many crazy mistakes back in the day and I tried too hard to be something I wasn’t. Maybe I was putting too much pressure on myself, I do that a lot. Maybe I just felt I was bigger than I really was, and that ending up costing me. I remember when Delia was the hottest thing since sliced bread and she had that Bombshell’s championship for a long time. Right before that... I tried to stop the Mean Girls right before it started, and I didn’t quite get the job done.



I should have beaten Alicia Lukas the first time, but I didn’t. I lost, and I had to regroup and even then, I also had to deal with 4 other people plus Alicia. It was crazy. I should have even Prudance's undefeated streak, but I didn’t. I have missed a lot of opportunities in my career, and I get that, and I’m not going to hide from it. I took those losses maybe a little too personally, because maybe, even in those times, I felt like I was maybe better than I was. I felt that maybe I was just too good, and rushed into every challenge headlong, eager to prove myself, and it led to mistakes, and my downfall. I had to learn to adapt to these situations because quite frankly, I couldn’t rely on just being the “good one” as they say, alone. That was always the need. I needed to live up that “Superhero” status I put on myself, and when I didn’t, I felt like I let the world down, mainly because it was what I expected.



I’ve learned now, and over time, to temper those expectations now. I know who I am, and I know what I can do. It just took me this long to realize that. I know that sometimes, I may lose a match here or there, and I’m still struggling with some of those losses, but for the most part, I know that there’s more along the horizon. I know that there’s more that I have left to do, and winning isn’t everything. It’s okay to fall down, you learn from it. I’ve tried my best to learn from those mistakes.



But, the point is, history is clearly not on my side for this right now. I am the underdog, and Myra Rivers appears to be unstoppable. And given my history, I don’t know what to expect at this point. I am not doubting myself, because I know what I’m capable of, I’m just saying if we’re looking at this whole match within the context of history and current situation, I’m not looking good, I’ll tell you that much, right now.



But thankfully, we do not go by simply “what’s on paper”



If we went by what’s on paper, maybe I would win all the time, I dunno. Maybe I would have won all those big matches I lost or something. But we don’t live in that kind of world, and nothing about this is an absolute certainty. All I can really tell you is that I’m certainly going to try my best to become the Internet champion. And I know that Myra Rivers will give me everything she’s got in order retain that championship, and that’s cool. That’s what I want, that’s what she wants, and that’s the main goal here. We both have to go out there and give it our all. And hey, maybe some people believe on paper that I have this match in the bag, but I can tell you that that is not a theory I subscribe to. I have no delusions that I’m just going to walk into Into the Void and just win without one heck of a fight. There is a reason that Myra has broken, heck, shattered the record for being Bombshell’s internet champion. She’s good. No, she’s very, very good.



I’d go as far as to say she’s great. From what I have seen, she is fully capable of beating anyone at any time. And yes, I will include myself in that statement. But the things is, I am capable of doing just the same. I have shown it time and time again. And you know, despite the fact that I’ve rushed in headlong to many situations, I always seem to find myself in the big situations over and over. I will tell you right now, I feel that pressure. It’s that good pressure, the type that makes you stand up and go, well... it’s on now. I have been feeling it all this week, because I have an opponent that is unlike many others, but an opponent that while in name and physical appearance are different, I’ve faced ring veterans many times in my career.



Amy Jo Smyth is one of my best friends and she is a very savvy veteran in and out of the ring. She’s done so much and I know she’s always been amazing in the ring, even when the appearances were not as frequent as they once were. Winning the Olympus Trios Championship with her and Keira was amazing. But she was able to teach me a lot even though I have been in wrestling for going on a decade. She’s never stopped teaching and being a mentor. I’m very proud to have her as my friend. She has been doing this for a long time, and when I stepped into the ring with her, it was a huge learning experience. I learned about grit, and sometimes, you have to go above and beyond what you think your limits are in order to win at the end of the day. Sometimes you have to reach down in places you didn’t think ever existed, and pull out that last little bit and keep going. She’s been one of the people that taught me that you can’t give up when the work gets hard. Because the work, will ALWAYS be hard. She always said the only easy day was yesterday. She may have stolen that from somewhere, but still, she says it a lot.



Now, I’m not staying that AJ and Myra are the same, because they are not. I’m saying they are veterans who know what they are doing and I clearly will have to be on my toes. But hey, I have been doing this for almost 10 years, so it’s not like I need to be told that, though sometimes just hearing it makes it stick. So yes, Myra has been doing this long enough that if I am not careful, my night can end very quickly. I’m not trying to give away a strategy or anything, but let’s face it, this match, more than likely will not be won on a fluke. At least, that’s not what I’m shooting for. I’m not trying to have some wacky roll-up win the match or anything like that. No, I want a good match, with a clear winner, and either way, history is made. And either way, everybody wins.



Well, I guess that ending is with me winning. At least I’d feel that way. I would still consider and do consider beating Myra to be a major accomplishment and I hope that she feels the same way about beating me. But I’m not saying everything is perfect if I win, because while Myra would still have the single greatest run with the championship to this point, the fact is, it would be over, and obviously, Myra doesn’t want that to happen. But I’ve said it before about streaks, once they end, the fun seems to be sapped, and I mean, good luck trying to match that again. Losing a streak can take it out of you if you’re not careful. It can make everything seem like you are a failure because you get to that one point and you feel so good and everything is clicking and then... you just don’t anymore. Then you can get the opposite and that’s a slump and then you feel like you’ll never win again. A lot of things can happen if I beat Myra. My hope is that she is proud of what she accomplished and understands that I wasn’t ever trying to just beat her to end a run and make her look bad. I’m not trying to just step in and ruin things for her. That’s just not what I do.



I just know that once that pain of loss fades, Myra can look back and then... who knows, maybe she’d be in line for an actual shot at the Bombshell’s championship. I’d personally love to see Myra get another chance to dance with those lights on bright. Probably just as much, if not more than me. And no, I’m not trying to push Myra into a spot, because I’m afraid of Amber or anything. Amber knows if the match gets made, it’ll be on again, I’m not ducking that fight by any means.



This is the match that I earned, and I intend to make the most of the opportunity. It means I have to end a very long streak and title reign, it means I have to be at the top of my game to do so, and it means it’s going to be a fight to the finish. But it’s a fight to the finish, I truly believe I can win. It’s is going to be tough? Sure, grueling? Maybe. But it’s going to be a heck of a match, no matter what.


I very much look forward to seeing Myra at Into the Void, and let’s just see who comes out the winner.


I will be ready.


I will see you all there.[/i]

{Our scene opens at the Palm Eastern Cemetary, as displayed by the concrete sign, as Roxi talks a walk that is familiar to her. She sees other mourners on her path, but eventually she finds what she is looking for. The grave of her friend.}

 


 

{Roxi takes a breath and sits down beside the grave, maintain her composure for now.}

 

Roxi – It's been a long time.

 

{Roxi sighs.}

 

Roxi – I've been doing this too often lately, dealing with old ghosts. I just did this a few weeks ago with another friend and... it just seems I’ve lost so much already, but it just... feels right to be here.

 

{Roxi turns away from the headstone, dropping her head and breathing deeply.}

 

Roxi – It's been way too long since I came by and I apologize for not doing this more often. But you know how hard it is to see something you never wanted to see if your life, much less keep coming back to it, right? I mean, maybe you do. I don’t know because I... never got the chance to ask you before. But it’s not like I expected this to be happening right now.

 

{Roxi takes a moment to wipe her eyes as they have tears welling up in them.}

 

Roxi – At least you can give me some credit for not breaking down right away this time... right? I know, I know, you would be telling me right now that I didn’t have to come here and I don’t, you’re right, but I wanted to give you some space, I know you weren’t like... the most social person, but I don’t want to leave you alone for too long. It means a lot to me, to be able to come here, regardless of how you may think about it.

 

{Roxi chuckles, almost through tears, but she wipes her eyes again.}

 

Roxi – I swear one day this will get easier. I just... I came to talk to you because I think you should maybe know how things are changing. And to... uh, thank you for last summer and your assistance. I know you were looking out for me, and I appreciate that help.

 

{Roxi pats the gravestone and rubs on it like it was a person’s shoulder and back.}

 

Roxi – But anyway, Nate is... he’s getting big and every day he does or says something that amazes me. He does ask about you from time to time and it’s not getting any easier to tell him that you’re busy. It does seem odd that he remembers you from pictures but he does. But, I think that just speaks about how big of an influence you were. A lot more people remember you than you think. I know, I know, you would be just fine without all the attention, but I’m just saying you deserve it.

 

{Roxi takes another deep breath and shrugs.}

 

Roxi – Owen is... Owen is getting even bigger and cuter every day and I’m super jealous of you for that. He’s gonna be breaking hearts for a long, long time. His dad, well... Look, I try to stay out of O’Malley’s business too much. I try not to judge him for his own choices. I can’t make them for him and I know at times he struggles with it. I just... out of respect for you, I look out for Owen. Now, I know O’Malley wouldn’t put Owen in any danger, but I feel like it’s my duty to make sure. That’s really all I’m trying to do. I just look on from afar and just keep an eye out. Hopefully, I’ll get to see Owen again soon, but I just wanted you to know, that despite everything, O’Malley is... a good father. There was some bumpiness there with some legal stuff, but O’Malley cares. He does. 

 

{Roxi again wipes away some tears before leaning back against the headstone.}

 

Roxi – It's gonna be the 300th episode of Climax Control soon and it got me thinking that it just isn’t the same without you being there. I know, I know you moved on and everything but still, it’s your house just as much as anyone else’s. I just want you to know that. Christian asked about matches and well... for a moment there, I almost forgot you were gone and I was going to say your name. Because it would have been the best thing. But... obviously, you can’t make it so I had to go another route. But, I just know that, I know that some way, you’ve always been there, and you’re always watching. And I want you to know, that I’m going to try and do my best to put on a show to honor you, because you are my friend.   

 

{Roxi slowly stands up, before hunching over, dry heaving for a moment, and then just out and out crying for about a minute. She slowly straightens back up, and takes a deep breath. Before turning back to the grave.}

 

Roxi – I... I’m always going to be there for you, my friend.  I’m gonna get out of here before I spend all day here, rambling on like an old gossipy woman. I miss you. I love you. And... like always, if you ever need anything, I will never be too far away. I will see you again... one day.

 

{Roxi waves to the gravestone before departing, the scene fading.}

---

Hello SCW,

 

It has been a while since I came before and honestly, it has been a refreshing to have time to think and prepare for what’s to come. I do want to apologize to Myra Rivers for not making any statements about our upcoming championship match, but then again, I don’t think words need to be said in order to demonstrate how huge this match upcoming actually is. For now, just know that I have not forgotten nor am I overlooking Myra Rivers by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, I am very much looking forward to that match and I am excited to see what lies ahead. But that is a little bit away, and my focus is right now on Climax Control #300. 

 

Now, I’m not really one to really brag about anything, but as the record books will show, I am one of only two people, much less Bombshells, to have actually wrestled on The 100th, 200th and now 300th shows. I am actually kinda proud of that accomplishment, it shows that I have stood the test of time and I have become a stalwart here in SCW. The only other person is Zuri Chastain, who is now having her retirement match on CC300. So, I do wish her the best. But with everyone who has competed in SCW, to basically be the iron woman of SCW is something I hold very dear. But more to the point, to be able to share the ring with the 3 people I get to share it with, makes it much more special than it already is.

 

When Christian first asked about CC300, there was only one person I had in mind to try and wrestle on that night, and that was Amy Marshall. It did get me thinking about what could have been. And how, there is an emptiness that my friend Misty isn’t here, and she would have easily been my choice. But the fact is... she isn’t here anymore. But the consolation prize of facing Amy Marshall is just as good. Heck, I am here in SCW, because of Amy Marshall, she was here before me, and knowing about her and wanting to test myself against her brought me here, and I can tell you right now, I do not regret that choice in the slightest. Amy has proven herself to be one of the best ever in SCW, and through all of out up and downs and going all over the place, she has become one of my dearest and closest friends. We haven’t always seen eye to eye, but at the end of the day, she has always brought out the best in me, and I hope I did the same for her. We won feud and match of the year just a few years ago, and it has given me fond memories and made us both better at the end of the day. So when the chance to possibly wrestle her again came up, there was no hesitating.

 

Now, I may have uh... struggled with my wording on asking for a match, but that’s just how Amy and I are. It’s just some fun and games because we are so close. I mean, you have to fight fire with fire sometimes, especially when your friend runs an adult entertainment company and.. Uh... some other stuff having happened, but it’s all in good fun. But I was thrilled to have Amy accept and make the match one more time, because Amy obviously has gone through some changes. Being a mom changes the way you do things, and I don’t have any regrets about taking the time off to watch my son grow up. That was one of the happiest times of my life. And I saw it in Amy’s eyes when she brought Beckett around to visit. It’s that look of pride and accomplishment that doesn’t happen all the time. That look was there, and I am proud of Amy and so thankful she is my friend, and even more thankful that I get a chance to step into the ring with her at least one more time.

 

But then, the fun doesn’t stop there, does it?

 

No. In fact, there’s a couple of other dance partners. My wife, Keira, and Jessie Salco. Now, Jessie has my respect as a wrestler, and as a fighter. She has never stopped fighting and competing no matter the odds or the stipulation. It’s that kind of determination that got Jessie where she is today. But as much as I want to, as much as feel like I should let it go. As a mom, insulting and threatening my son is still a sore spot. Now, since then, a lot of time has passed and that doesn’t bother me as much as it used to. I know that Jessie was frustrated with things and trying something different, and that was the result. The reason I bring it up, is because now, it is in the past for me. I’m over it, and once I got an actual chance to sit down and really speak with Jessie, she ended up being one of the most down to earth people I know. And to understand her frustration was very key for me, and I am very appreciative to hear from Jessie, and well... when Keira suggested that she, along with Jessie be added and made this a tag team match? The fit was absolutely perfect. 

 

I am sorry to Jessie for getting her wrapped up in some Team Hero off the wall shananegins that resulted in a trip to the hospital, but that was something I wanted to avoid all the same. But now, that’s over, everything that did happen with Jessie is now water under the bridge, now it’s all about this match, on CC300 and doing what Team Hero and the Metal and Punk Connection do best. Now, as far as who the better team is, I think the answer is pretty obvious, but at the same time, I’m ready to prove it one more time. 

 

Team Hero, no matter how long we don’t tag with each other, we’re family, we’re a couple, we are never far apart and we have the bond to be as good at any time as we were before. I have no doubts that if there was a bombshell’s tag team titles still, we would be holding them again. Team Hero changed the game, and both Jessie and Amy know that. And now, as CC300 approaches, it is just another opportunity for us to show just how good Team Hero is, was, and will be.

 

But that, is just an added bonus, the real treat, is having 4 friends, in the ring giving it their all, just one more time, for now. I want all 3 to know that I love them and this is the most excited I’ve been for a match in a long time. I am so looking forward to doing this match, and... you know, coming out on top just one more time as well. 

 

I cannot wait. Team Hero, vs. The Metal and Punk connection. 

Let’s do this.

 

See you all there.

{We open with Roxi heading into the Aslyum confrence room, which is set up like a make-shift court room. The door is secured by two armed guards who stand firm with batons on their hips. Roxi is one of the last ones in the courtroom, as Dr. Freeman, head of the Asylum, and Lt. Murphy are already seated, along with Mr. Price representing the Mayor. Murphy is none too happy to see Roxi sit down next to him.}

 

Lt. Murphy – I hope you’re happy, super.

 

Roxi – If I’m wrong, then I’m wrong and everything will work itself out.

 

Lt. Murphy – You're wasting a lot of people’s time. I don’t know how you got this little party together, but it stinks.

 

Roxi – Maybe it’s for nothing. But if there’s something there, shouldn’t we pursue it?

 

Lt. Murphy – The testimony of crazy people isn’t a lead, it’s a joke, and you know it.

 

Roxi – I guess we’ll see.

 

 

{From a second, also guarded entrance, complete with escort, comes Officer Coleman, his towering, hulking frame barely fitting through the door. He quietly sits down and the chair he sits in buckles under his mass. Dr. Freeman stands up, clearing his throat.}

 

Dr. Freeman – Ladies and Gentlemen, we’re all here in this informal inquiry to discuss the alligations of abuse that have been brought to my attention. Lt. Murphy, are you vouching for Officer Coleman.

 

{Put on the spot, Murphy grits his teeth.}

 

Lt. Murphy – I do. But, I am also eager to hear these alligations.

 

Officer Coleman – If anyone objects to my methods... Please, let me know your concerns.

 

{A confident smirk appears on Coleman’s face.}

 

Dr. Freeman – We call patient #0A556. One, John-Paul Mitchell, Alias, “Crazy Wolf”

 

{Wolf is brought in, looking somber and staring at the ground. He is seated facing towards the center of the room, Coleman on one side, and the make-shift court on the other.}

 

Dr. Freeman – Well... Mr. Mitchell. Have you anything to say about Officer Coleman’s treatment?

 

{Wolf finally looks up after a few moments and stares at Roxi for a minute, with that same scared look Roxi saw on the Peek Twins.  Then his gaze goes over to Coleman.}

 

Wolf – No.

 

{Roxi is stunned for a moment, knowing full well something is going on.}

 

Wolf – I have no complains.

 

Dr. Freeman – Are you sure?

 

Wolf – You hard of hearing Doc? I said no!

 

{Wolf stops and his gaze returns to the floor. Roxi eyes this suspiciously as Wolf is taken to the other side of the room under the watch of some orderlies.}

 

Dr. Freeman – Very well, we call Patients #0F671 #OF672. Billy and Jimmy Peek.

 

{The Peek Twins are paraded in. They sit side by side in the small desk at the center of the room.}

 

Dr. Freeman – Gentlemen, please state your case.

 

{The Peek Twins are silent for a long period.}

 

Officer Coleman – You can freely admit if you escaped because of me. Or because of who you are.

 

{The Twins looks scared to death just hearing Coleman’s voice. They continue to say look away and then back at Roxi, with that same fear.}

 

Billy – It ain’t been nothing but a good time, Doc.

 

Jimmy – Yeah, Our future is so bright with Coleman, we gotta wear shades.

 

Dr. Freeman – Very well.

 

Lt. Murphy – Thanks for wasting everyone’s time, Super.

 

{Roxi finally stands up and looks around, as the Twins are taken off the bench next to Wolf. She thinks for a moment and smirks under her mask.}

 

Roxi – Well, I guess that that means that Officer Coleman should continue, perhaps even be transferred to the Asylum full-time as a result of this.

 

{This causes the Twins and Wolf to shout out.}

 

Wolf – NO! HE’S CRAZY! HE’S A MENACE! HE TAKES AWAY OUT PRIVLEDGES AND LOCKS US IN CHAINS AT NIGHT!

 

Billy – He electrifies our cell bars! That ain’t no joke!

 

Jimmy – It's madhouse!

 

Officer Coleman – SHUT UP! ALL OF YOU! YOU OUGHT TO BE BEATEN WITHIN AN INCH OF YOUR LIVES!

 

{Coleman gets up and begins to walk menacingly towards the patients, but orderlies attempt to hold him back. Being as big as he is, he gets out of their grips, charging towards them, and fighting the orderlies to get to them. He punches one, and now free, charges both Wolf and the Twins. Roxi finally steps in, tripping Coleman from behind and making him fall. The remaining orderlies flop on top of Coleman to keep him down.}

 

Dr. Freeman – I've seen enough. Officer Coleman, you are hearby dismissed!

 

Officer Coleman – WHAT? YOU BELIEVE THEM OVER ME! I AM THE LAW HERE! I PROTECT PEOPLE! BUT NOW I SEE THAT WAS JUST A SYMPTOM. YOU ARE THE REAL PROBLEM! 

 

Dr. Freeman – Take him away.

 

{Cuffed and shackled, Coleman is dragged away to waiting police. Murphy and Roxi look at each other.}

 

Lt. Murphy – You feel proud you were right?

 

Roxi – No. I feel that Coleman would have done worse if we weren’t there now.

 

Lt. Murphy – Is this leads to a breakout...

 

Roxi – Then, I’ll take responsibility and I’ll put them back. That’s my job, Muphy. That’s what I’ll do. But this is a team effort. You may not like me, or what I do, but so long as you have guys like that working for you... The team... isn’t  going to win very much.

 

Lt. Muphy – I'll worry about him. You don’t tell me about my guys. I had one bad guy, don’t bring it down on me.

 

Roxi – It's not just one guy. If we look hard enough, we’ll find more. Just keep guys like that, out of my city.

 

{With that, Roxi turns and leaves, everyone getting over the moment as the scene fades.}

 

 

 

 

 

 

---

 



I have heard the deafening silence. It does not make me happy.

 

Maybe last week was a bit dramatic. Maybe I overreacted to a simple loss. Maybe the game the is getting to me. Or maybe, that’s just how I feel. For so long, I have felt others pain, and fought so many others battles, that has become difficult to think about when I fight my own without becoming as invested as I do with other people’s. I care for my friends and that’s been to my detriment for a long time. So yes, it may come off as over dramatic that I care about myself winning and losing. I have a reputation and legacy to uphold, and I can already hear the words coming from everyone else. “You’re in the Hall of Fame, you have nothing left to prove.” And you would be correct. I don’t suspect I will be re-entering the Hall Of Fame any time soon. It’s not about that. As I’ve stated, it’s about how I do things and my own standard, and I have been failing myself. But things can be changed starting at Blaze of Glory. 

 

My eyes have been opened to things and people that I thought I knew and stood by, but my own naivety has blinded me for a long time. So things I’m going to say in the future, they won’t be pretty, but at the end of the day, perhaps coming from me, they will FINALLY hit home. But that of course, remains to be seen.

 

I also want to just really say this and I mean it with all my heart: Thank you to my wife, Keira for all the hard work she has done, not only in the past few weeks, but the past few YEARS. She has done so much for me, and I cannot express how steady she herself has been, all the while improving herself mentally and physically. She is my rock and I wouldn’t be where I am today without her. So yes, from the bottom of my heart, thank you to my wife. You mean everything to me and I love you. Always and forever. Nothing will ever change that. Ever.

 

Now, Sadly, I was expecting to get something from Lucy, but it seems she has decided to do her talking in the ring, and that’s perfectly fine. I just wish she had communicated that before we started this. I do remember getting a message from her saying good luck, but that’s been about it. I wish there was more, but there just isn’t. Not that I’m really upset too much about it, but even good luck seems a bit... lacking. 

 

Luck has always played a part in my life, and I do consider myself a lucky person. I have been given great gifts and I really enjoy sharing them with my family and friends. I’m lucky to have them all, who always show me love and support, even when they don’t need to. I have some of the best people on the planet on my side and that’s a great feeling to have, and it makes it doubly special when success come their way or mine, or both. An obviously on the negative side, failure on any of us makes us all go through those periods of self-doubt and yes, I went through that last week. Much less this week, but yes, I am human and I have my bouts of self-doubt. But there has been so much positivity, that it’s a lot, and I mean a whole lot easier to ease those doubts when you have many people who give you the metaphorical and physical pat on the back to tell me that I don’t have to worry about letting anyone down, because I’ve already done so much. Having a network of people I do is amazing and I am very lucky that those people are who they are.

 

In the ring, I have been very lucky to do what I have done for so long. I haven’t had a major injury, just the usual bumps and bruises. I still have plenty of those to share, and each one is a memory for sure. But outside of that, yes, I have been lucky. I was fortunate enough to be able to wrestle great people, and even luckier to come on top a lot of the time. I will always be very thankful to those I wrestled, and all I’ve ever asked for was the same respect back. I’ve been a champion, I’m in the SCW Hall of Fame like I said, so yes, luck has clearly been on my side throughout my career and my life.

 

Even still, it’s hard not to feel like I let people down sometimes. It’s hard for me given the pressure I put on myself. Maybe at times it has been a thing where I try too hard or worry too much, but that’s what I do. I can’t help it. It’s always been my nature and I’m not going to change who I am. So, yes occasionally, I will have these things happen. But I have learned that it is important not to dwell on these things. Last week, it was rough, but this week, I am focused and I am ready to go. I will go out there with Lucy, who as I’ve said a bunch of times is very, very talented, and while yes, I do feel that I have to win and this is a bigger test for me than it is for Lucy, I will try and enjoy it either way. It’s another chance to perform and add to my own legacy, so yes, I am very excited. But that doubt is still there a little bit, so against Lucy, I have to erase that doubt altogether, that not only am I capable, but I am still at the top of my game, despite the setbacks.

 

Each match is a learning experience, and I plan on putting that to good use at Blaze of Glory, as I move forward, and onward to victory.

 

I wish Lucy the best of luck. She’s going to need it.