[Mark Ward]

 Post all roleplays for this match in here.

Limit: 1 roleplay per week.

Good luck

[Amy Marshall]

 25th June 2017
Long Beach, CA
Climax Control #184

Celeste hits the first two parts of the move but when she goes the Bulldog Amy shoves her off, Celeste notices that security have started pouring out to break up the brawl at ringside and she turns around.........right into the Bad Girl!

Amy goes for a cover whilst eyeing the out pour of security guards coming down the ramp.

ONE!

TWO!

THREE!

DING DING DING!

Justin: Here's your winner, "The Punk Princess" Amy Marshall!

Amy surrenders peacefully to the guards as the brawl on the outside is broken up. As Amy's music plays over the p.a, Amy moves back to the ring and heads towards the corner, where she asks for a mic, which one is handed to her. Amy moves back to the centre of the ring and looks down at Celeste, as her music dies down.

Amy: Is this what the Mean Girls have come too? is this one of their best?

Amy wipes her forehead and shakes her head.

Amy: If this is how the mean girls operate... on their back. Then Devona, Kate and myself have no need to worry. The only person that has to worry is Mercedes. Mercedes you better start giving pep talks and kick your fellow mean girls into touch, because right now... i am not impressed and i bet Delia is wondering why she recruited losers.

Pathetic.

Amy drops the mic, as her music plays once more and she climbs out of the ring and heads up the ramp to the backstage area followed close behind by Devon and Kate. Once backstage the security guards remained ever present and not leaving the side of Amy, Devona and Kate in the fear of another brawl. But it wasn’t going to happen and as we moved down the corridor away from the backstage exit they followed until we were pretty clear of the mean girl locker room, from which security then left.

“Well... that was interesting.”

Kate piped up as she rubbed her head.

“Congratulations Amy... Nice win.”

“Thanks”

Amy smiled.

“Though I was expecting a much tougher match. But a win is a win.”

Amy continued and shrugged.

“We will let you go shower and change and Devona and I are going to find Jessie and celebrate.”

Kate says.

“How do you guys celebrate?”

Devona asks as Amy looks at Kate as Kate nods and explains what happens as they walk off leaving Amy, just as joey appears.

“Well done.”

Joey lights kisses Amy’s cheek.

“Thank you. Where did you catch the match?”

Amy asks as she and joey head to the locker room.

“In catering out of the way as usual.”

“Always good place to watch.”

Joey nods.

“Are you heading out with Kate and... uh Devona?”

“Possibly... although I don’t know what music Devona likes. She comes across as a RnB type girl.

Amy shrugs as the reach the locker room and Amy and Joey enter. Joey takes a seat and flicks on the tv while Amy head into the bathroom to wash.

“I won’t be long.”

Amy closes the door and begins to run the hot tap as she digs around for a few bits before looking into the mirror.

“Mirror mirror on the... sorry... couldn’t resist. Tonight just proved that the mean girls are nothing. They are fading away into obscurity. Look at Veronica for instance... she can be bothered to try any more... just lazier and lazier. As for Celeste... taking the I can’t be bothered stance... sad really... so much potential... just being dragged down by veronica and even being associated as a mean girl. I think you will find celeste that the look at me I’m pretty and calling everyone basic is no longer frightening. Mercedes meanwhile... I think just being a mean girl is dragging her down. God look at me... I’m becoming a broken record... Mercedes you need to focus on you. You have potential to be something big but you must dump celeste and veronica. Let them fade away. I could continue but I want to save what I have to say later. For now though... tonight was the beginning... beginning of the down fall of the mean girls. Celeste, I have no sympathy for you... because you brought on yourself.”

Amy wipes the mirror from the building condensation as she splashes her face with water, making her make up slightly run. The scene soon fades out on Amy remove her top as she prepares for a night out after her win.


~*~*~*~
~*~*~*~


27th June 2017
Long Beach, CA

Having spent the Monday recovering from the match against Celeste and hanging out with Jessie and the rest of the girls, Amy opted to stay in Long Beach for another day and instead of going to the gym, Amy opted for another form of staying fit and that was on the waves.  Going to a local beach in which Joey had one of his surf shops.  On the beach Joey chats talks to a couple of people about the best board and the waves and other things surfing. Meanwhile Amy in the distance waits for a good wave, having captured 4 already.

As the two people leave, a friend of Joey approaches him as they both watch Amy.

“She is getting pretty good… almost as good as you.”

His friend jokes.

“Amy has picked up surfing with ease… must be her competitive side or something.”

Joey suggests, as he watches Amy identify a good wave and quickly paddles and rides the wave before getting to her feet and surfing the wave all the way to the shore.  Once to the shore, Amy climbs up out of the water and picks up her board, as she bushes her wet hair from her face before making her way back to Joey.

“Hi.”

“Good wave?”

Joey friend asks.

“Yeah… it was great.”

“Sorry Amy… this is Leo, he is a friend of mine.”

“Nice to meet you.”

He says as sticks out a hand, which Amy accepts and grabs it and they shake hands.

“And you.”

Amy smiles as she digs the surf board into the sand before grabbing a towel and wiping her face.
“So you are the famous Amy that Joey gushes over when we hang out.”

Leo says as he gives Amy a look over.

“I am… and sorry he gushes over me that much.”

Amy smirks.

“Don’t be.”

Leo says, as he looks around the beach for a moment.

“Leo was just swinging by... as he heard that I was in town.”

“How long are you in town for?”

“A few more days… unfortunately I have to work and then I’m going on a short cruise.”

Joey explained.

“oh?”

“Amy has a match on a cruise ship, which is weird. But who am I to complain.”

“Any free tickets?”

Leo asks.    

“I can put one or two aside for you… if you want?”

Amy unzips her wet suit and peels off the top half to reveal a green bikini top.

“I was kidding… I’ve got a party to go to that weekend. Sorry.”

“No worries.”

Amy smiles.

“I’ve got to go, I’ve popped out to get some coffee and something to eat. The boss will be wondering I am.”

“Alright… I’ll catch you soon.”

Joey says with a smile, as he and Leo shake hands and do their goodbye’s, as Leo soon walks off back to work.

“He seems a nice guy.”

Amy says.

“He is. So are you finished surfing?”
“Yeah… “

“Alright… let me finish up here and I’ll meet you back at the hotel.”

Joey suggests.

“Sure. Just need to remove the rest of this wet suit and slip some clothes on.”

Amy moves to a seat where she removes the rest of her wet suite before leaning to grab her bag, where she then slips on a t-shirt and a pair of shorts and some flats. Sticking her wet hair up into a pony tail, Amy stands to her feet.  The scene soon fades as Amy gives Joey a kiss on the cheek before taking the short walk back to the hotel.


~*~*~*~
~*~*~*~

Vlog.
29th June 2017

Next Sunday will make history... next Sunday even though there are no stakes on the line... will be the end of the mean girls. No-one fear them no-one takes them seriously... people just laugh at how pitiful they have become. Sunday night MPC and Devona will walk away victorious and the mean girl will be left wondering what to do next.

If you have noticed that I am pretty damn confident going into this match. I am confident because I know we can win.... the reason I know we can win.... we don’t have Veronica in the team. Veronica isn’t the same person when she first joined the company... she is now nothing... and that why myself and the team are going to be focusing on beating veronica down. She is the weakest link in this match and we are going to exploit the weak link of the mean girls.

So let have a little history lesson about the mean girls... how many members has there been...

Let’s see:
Delia Darling
Veronica Taylor
Angelica whatever her name is
Holly Wood
Tessa Flanagan
Celeste North
Mercedes Vargas

Where are they now:
Delia - done know... don’t care
Angelica - don’t know don’t care.
Tessa Flanagan - don’t know don’t care.
Holly Wood - doing some questionable refereeing.
Veronica Taylor - making up the bombshell number and doing fuck all and losing
Celeste North - losing
Mercedes Vargas - wasting her talents in a group that has lost its shine.

When the mean girls debuted in SCW they were a force to be reckoned with their silly little burn book and they made a name for themselves and won titles... but now they are nothing but an empty shell of irrelevance. Nobody is leading nobody is taking responsibility for the losses nobody is giving pep talks. They are not even worried about her reputations. Even Mercedes... Mercedes can you even be proud of being in thee mean girls now... you care more about breaking records... if I was you Mercedes... I would dump them losers and focus on winning titles again. For the record, I don’t know you nor am I trying to get I to your head... but I know when you are unhappy... and well you are not happy with that lame duck group.

Mercedes is time to put that lame duck down and move on. You are a thousand’s time better than them and the mean girls name... move on now before you tarnish your name and reputation.

Still... you are dangerous a force in this match and still can kick ass all over the ring... and IF and that a big IF, Celeste and Veronica decide to get their shot together you might win.

But unfortunately I cannot see celeste even trying in this match, like she did even bother with her promo or even in our match. Celeste it seems that the weight of being a mean girl is dragging you down... and the expectations of being successful like your idol Delia... weighs down on your shoulders. But at the end of the day you don’t even care... you would just prefer to sit on your lazy ass and make jokes and make repetitive boring insults. Why are you even here celeste? Like Veronica you just need to quit and get the fuck out of wrestling. But when what would you be doing? Runway... modelling... being an unemployed irrelevant piece of trash. We will never know.

And speaking of Veronica... well let’s not becaus3 we all know that your promo will last a whole 30 seconds and you will just get beaten down as usual. How are you still employed? I know I have a shit win/loss record but yours is even worse. I threatened earlier to single you out during the match... and i am going to stick to my word. You are the weak link in that team and the weak links get picked on. Veronica if you knew what’s good for you... you would not bother showing up or better quit. The whole look at me I’m pretty and you are a basic just doesn’t fly any more. Time to sort your shit out or get the fuck out.
Listen... next Sunday on that cruise... MPC are walking away victorious.

LONG LIVE MPC... R.I.P MEAN GIRLS.

[Devona]

 Did you know that there are a lot of common misconceptions about the world of professional wrestlers and the men and women that participate inside of the ring, putting their bodies at risk for your entertainment? One of the most often spoken is the belief that all wrestlers, both male and female, are wealthy without a care in the world. Armchair experts and fans on the outside looking in, see fancy cars used in promos, big houses that border on mansions, and think these wrestlers have big fat six figure salaries that threaten to burst their bank accounts to full. In fact, the vast majority of wannabe wrestlers use money as a chief reason to delve into wrestling, thinking and believing that it'll only be a matter of time before they hit the big time. Called up to the major leagues where the power, money and influence will just pour into their laps. What they fail to understand or realize is that this is not always the case. In fact, more often than not, it simply doesn't happen.

Over ninety percent of professional wrestlers never get called up to those global trekking promotions, the so-called "major leagues," and instead are relegated to work the beaten path in what they affectionately coin as the "indies." It's a test of mettle and will power for these grapplers, the better in order to weed out the weak willed and see the strong survive. To see which men and women truly have the heart to withstand the tests of the road and see who is most fit to fully realize their dream. They sometimes are relegated to sleeping in their cars to save money as opposed to spending an extra fifty to eighty bucks for a cheap yet comfortable hotel room for the night. Other times practical strangers have to share a car ride across state, or even across the country, just to save on gas with everybody pitching in. Fast food becomes a staple when you'd much rather have a home cooked (and hopefully nutritious) meal. It's just generally more of a struggle than the average fan realizes, and only the wrestlers themselves truly know what goes on behind the scenes, despite what the "wrestling experts" want you to believe.

Here's a little fact; Sin City Wrestling is one of those promotions that qualify as being an in dependant organization, although they are much bigger than the average "indy" with a larger cult following. It's one of the perks in having their weekly programming air live across the world-wide web as opposed to cable TV. The Internet simply reaches a much wider audience, and SCW has become a household world across the world, hence their two tours they take, usually across the ocean in international lands. They have been to Japan, Canada, Africa, and once even embarked on a year-long international tour that most wrestlers, even in the major leagues, could only dream of. It was one of the perks of having two business minded bosses and some outstanding sponsors the world over. So SCW, you might expect, pays better than the average indy promotion. But there are still times when the athletes who step inside of the six-sided ring still have to cut corners, at least some of them.

Like newcomers/rookies such as Devona.

Yes, I bet you wondered when I was going to get to the point. We just wanted to delve a little into the why's and reasoning before you found one of the newest female sensations in Sin City Wrestling entering the local Wal-Mart Supercenter in downtown New Orleans, earlier this week.

Yes, you read that correctly. Wal-Mart. Not Macys, not some high end retail establishment. Just like the average fan, Devona sees no harm or reason why she should not shop where its convenient for her pocket book. And of course, she was not there alone. Clad in a pair of denim shorts and a tank top in her trademark violet color, she enters the retail giant and slips the sun glasses from her eyes and turns around to see the amusing sight of her two best friends, the brotherly duo of Beauty and Beast practically wrestling in the frame of the entrance.

Beauty: But you said 'ladies first' so I let her go in first!

Beast: When I said 'ladies first' I was talking about YOU!

Of course, after acting the part of the gentlemen and allowing her to go in ahead of them, both brothers tries to step through the door next and Beast's gargantuan size almost wedged the two against each other within the door frame. It was a brief struggle, entertaining though it was for not just her eyes, but the eyes of a handful of shoppers and the bewildered greeter. Beast's size simply ended it quickly and with a deft turn of his body, he practically shot his little brother (literal as well as figurative) into the store, the row of trolleys being the only thing keeping him from taking an embarrassing spill in front of dozens of on looking eyes.

Beauty dusted himself off, putting on the act that he had won and smiled with a smug grin.

Beauty: HA!

And Beast's answer to that was just to simply shove a hand basket into his brother's arms, relegating him to carrying whatever it was that they were there to buy. Devona had to clear her throat before another verbal war erupted between the two siblings, and they all but forgot whatever they were about to spar at one another to look in their childhood friend's direction.

Devona: Excuse me, fellas? Can we get in and get out? Grams and your Momma are expecting us for dinner soon before we hit the road tonight.

Beast brushed past Beauty, almost nudging him into the rows of carts (which would have been an accident, mind you), before he followed Devona. Beast paused just long enough to rest his huge paw of a hand on the elderly woman's shoulder who served as the traditional visage of a Wal-Mart greeter.

Beast: Hey Agnes, how's the grandkids?

The old woman smiled, pleased that someone of the younger generation took an interest in an older person's life. But that was just something instilled in Beast as well as his brother by their Momma; the fact that the elderly should be revered, not reviled.

Agnes: Just fine, just fine.

She patted his arm and he moved on after Devona and his little brother who hurried to surpass Beast, another childish form of competition between siblings. The previous act would surprise many who laid eyes on Beast and simply assumed due to his huge size and appearance that he would be rough and gruff. Nothing could be further from the truth (unless you upset him or were Beauty). Beast was actually a very gentle individual who possessed a heart of gold.

Beauty: Remind me again why we have to buy road trip supplies? Didn't SCW offer you a plane ticket?

Devona: Yes but they didn't offer you two one, and I figured if you two were going to make it to LA in one piece, I might as well join you for the trip and keep you from killing each other. As opposed to getting to LA early to hang out with Amy and Kate and get to know each other a little better, I decided to play referee.

Beauty: But what do we need here? Didn't you already have your stuff ready?

He stated 'here' in an almost derisive tone, as he wasn't a fan of shopping at Wal-Mart. It's not that he had the funds to shop anywhere fancier, it was just the image, you understand. Target yes, Wal-Mart no. Devona paused, dropping some cookies into the basket and passing a twelve pack of Diet Coke into Beast's arms.

Devona: I did, you didn't. Neither of you.

Her eyes even met Beast's who had the good nature to look at least a little guilty at procrastinating, as opposed to Beauty who just rolled his eyes. Beast, at least, had the excuse that he had a full time job that kept him distracted. Beauty's new game for the PS4, Skyrim, didn't serve as well for why he didn't get his own things ready ahead of time. His only job was the one his brother had gotten for him as a joke at his expense; as a go-go dancer at a certain club where Beauty was constantly wondering where all the women were -- and why the guys were such generous tippers.

Here's another little thing I bet you didn't know. While together and on social media, Beast and Beauty fought and argued like cats and dogs, they didn't actually hate one another. In certain ways, they even looked out for each other, so long as there were really no witnesses to see it happen. One example would be the fact that Beast knew his little brother had his heart set on that previously mentioned game, Skyrim, and it was he who had bought it for him and simply left it for him to find -- signed the little guy in the freezer that turned the lights on and off.

Beauty was still trying to figure that one out. Last Beast knew, Momma had walked in on Beauty gazing into the packed freezer and simply saying 'thank you.'

And Beauty also noticed Beast happen to take a brief break from their shopping excursion to leaf through a couple of sports magazines on the rack before putting them back, rather than spend the money needlessly. Beauty had no such qualms and covertly snuck the magazines into his own basket so his brother would have something to read on the road trip when it was his or Devona's turn behind the wheel.

Devona: And while we get some snacks and the basic necessities, you two should get...

Beast turned to her and shrugged.

Beast: What extra could we need? We already have everything at home that we're really going to need.

Devona sighed and ran her fingers through her hair as if she were about to approach a sensitive topic.

Devona: Well, maybe not 'everything.' Look guys, this was your Momma's idea, and she asked me to bring it up. There are going to be a lot of single and available ladies on that cruise...

Beauty's grin widened at this thought and he gave him brother an elbow in the arm and waggled his eyebrows. Beast just rolled his eyes. Looks aside, Beauty had the charm of a rock and the brains to match. He had about as much luck with women as a monk in a monastery.

Devona: Well she thinks being such handsome and responsible young men, you should both get some ... protection.

Beauty: What kind of protection?

Beast turned to him with a snarl.

Beast: Two starved Dobermans, dumbass!

Beast, at least, knew what Devona was trying to discreetly tell them and he followed her toward the pharmacy section of the store. Blinking and wondering why they'd need dogs to fend off the babes, Beauty soon started to follow when someone gave him pause. A young woman, who just so happened to 'overhear,' caught his arm and offered him this sage bit of advice.

Woman: You know, you could do a lot better.

Beauty blinked, and looked from her to his brother's back and then to her again. Dim a bulb as he was, even he knew the implication of what she thought and he frowned in return. Beauty leaned closer to the woman and whispered,

Beauty: I don't see you here with anyone.

Before he moved past her to rejoin Devona and Beast...



And that was where we found the trio of best friends found themselves on the road, and very near the end of their journey. The road trip from New Orleans to Los Angeles was pretty much a straight shot, but it was over 1800 miles and would have been a twenty seven hour road trip, not counting rest stops, meal breaks and the one night they allotted themselves for a hotel. Would have been, had Beauty not taken his turn behind the wheel and shaved a few hours from the trip's total, as well as probably a few from Devona and Beast's lives, what with the way he drove. As it stood, they made good time, and after leaving just this past Wednesday, it was near the early morning hours on Friday. The sun was just rising across the horizon and in just a couple more hours, they would arrive in Los Angeles and be prepared for their mutual adventure of their first cruise together, ever.

Bodies were tired, nerves were frayed. Especially for Devona who knew she had her third big match so far in her career fast approaching, and it was on a major wrestling event. Her first SCW Supercard, and on a cruise no less! Beast was a little nervous for her, although if you asked him he'd point out she beat two of the top ranked women in SCW in her first two matches so this one should be cake! He was also nervous about what his brother would be acting like on this cruise, as he was prone to cause a scene almost anywhere he went. And Beauty?

He was nervous about how many babes would want to molest him when he appeared on deck in his tiny patriotic swimsuit. That, and the fact what his brother teased him about on twitter was more or less true; he did get a touch of sea sickness on water. Not that he'd ever admit it!

But it was these frayed nerves and the wary minds that made Beauty get a bit of a devilish streak in him while stretching their legs at the rest stop along the interstate. They all agreed just this last one before they made one last jaunt to Los Angeles to end the trip before it was time to head back. Beauty had taken the last turn behind the wheel, and had yet to hand the keys back to Beast who had elected to drive the last bit of the journey. He looked around and didn't see his brother anywhere; probably using the facilities and stinking up the place, or grabbing a snack from the vending machines.

Beauty took this opportunity to jump behind the wheel of his brother's F-150 and rev the engine up. he then fastened his seat belt hit the gas, pulling out of the rest area as quickly as he was able and pulled onto the Interstate, laughing like a hyena.

Beauty: Hahahahahaha! I did it! I DID IT! Can you imagine the look on his face!?

Beast: Yeah you're a real rocket scientist.

Beast spoke as he rose up from the back seat. Beauty jumped and gaped at his brother in the rear view mirror.

Beauty: What the hell are you doing back there!?

Beast: I was getting my damn wallet to get a soda for all of us when you pulled your little stunt!

Beauty: But, if you're back there then who did I leave behind...?

Beauty's face suddenly paled.

Beauty: SHIT!!!



And this of course would bring us to the present, here on Friday July 1st. The kick off party, to be held exclusively for the SCW staff, and hosted by the Kris and Mikah Show, or Mikah and Kris -- well let them fight that one out. The point is, after as fast a turnaround on the highway as Beauty could manage, and multiple apologies later, their trip had come to an end. Beast and Beauty, as her guests, we waiting on the ship for the kick off to begin, while Devona had excused herself briefly, explaining she just wanted a moment alone and a breath of fresh air.

She got both by walking down the gangway and onto the dock where several fans were waiting, watching for a glimpse of their favorites. Taxis and in some cases, limos, also pulled up to allow wrestlers and staff the chance to slip out and onto the ship so the party could begin. Devona managed to slip past most everyone, stopping just long enough for a handful of autographs and snapshots with young fans, before she weaved her way through the masses and had a seat on a crate. She drew her legs up and clasped her arms around bended knee. Her eyes fell onto the ship and she exhaled through pursed lips.

Devona: Wow. Just, wow. I have to admit that I find it amazing that in less than a day, I'll be on board that huge cruise ship with my two best friends, my two tag team partners, and a whole bunch of my peers and wrestling fans, sailing the ocean on what is going to be a thrilling chance of a lifetime. The fifth annual Summer XXXTreme cruise, but my first. There'll be others, I'm sure, but this here? This will be my first, and that is why I'm taking just a bit of time for me alone to savor every moment of it.

I didn't get to hang out this week with Amy and Jessie and Kate, as much as I would have liked. I know R&B and jazz aren't their style, but I would still like to introduce them a little to what makes me, me. It's bound to help us fit together as tag team partners and get that important win. A win that will be coming in just a week's time.

Devona shook her head, but the light in her eyes never faded. Not for a moment.

Devona: Can you imagine it? This all started because the so-called Mean Girls decided to try and put a dampener on my debut, on my contract signing. Did they think or even contemplate that this would actually be the catalyst to help jump start my career? The 'meanest' group of gals on the roster, picking on the poor newcomer who had yet to make any friends that would or could back her up.

Devona smiled and shook her head.

Devona: As unpopular as they are, what did they think would happen? The fans got behind me, and when they decided they couldn't handle the fact that I got one up on them in my match with Mercedes, they jumped me and what happened? Jessie and Amy came to my rescue and fended them off. They didn't know me, but they did know Celeste and Veronica and yes, Mercedes. That's all they needed to know to get them off me and fight back, and for that I can just offer my heartfelt thanks. And although I was expecting to be teaming with the former World Tag Champions, I couldn't be happier for Jessie in her Roulette title win. And I know enough about Kate Steele to know she'll more than hold her end of this team, being no fan of the Mean Girls herself. And Amy? Even though I got a win over her, the lass is a class act all the way, putting that aside to team with me, a virtual unknown. A rookie. That speaks highly of the woman's character and her trust.

Devona ran a hand through her hair and looked up as more lights started to illuminate the upper deck of the ship.

Devona: And that, of course, brings us to the match itself. Veronica Taylor started this whole mess, and all because she couldn't stand that a newcomer was getting any attention that she felt rightfully belonged to her. But when that little tart put her hands on her, that was all I needed for an excuse to knock her teeth down her throat. Well done, Veronica. I see being a super model also comes with great dental insurance! try to get cute with me again in this six woman tag, and next time you'll need dentures!

And Mercedes, I don't need to remind you what happened the last time we were inside of the ring together. As elevated as your status is in wrestling, it wasn't my back that ended up flat on the mat.

Devona clapped her palms together three times to symbolize the one, two, three count.

Devona: Call it luck, say it was the result of whatever helps you sleep through the night. You have a whole week to think up a bunch of new excuses for that loss, and the one that's fast approaching. And this time? It won't be just you taking the blame. It'll be all three Mean Girls looking for an excuse as to why they lost again to the new girl. I imagine though that this will be hardest for Celeste to accept. When she led that attack on Delia Darling, taking over the Mean Girls in the process, I expect she assumed it was the start of something new, something glorious.

She shook her head and looked into the camera.

Devona: It wasn't though, was it Celeste? It was more like taking that first step off a hill covered in gravel and tumbling the length of the way down. Tearing your skin up, getting bruised, right until you landed at the bottom in a dazed, hurt and confused heap. much like you'll be ending up at the bitter end against Kate, Amy and myself. But don't worry Celeste! If you've proven anything, it's that you are great when it comes to pointing the finger and passing the blame off onto others. Now you have Veronica and Mercedes teaming with you, you can just do what it is that you do best.

Blame them for the latest loss on the Mean Girls' record.

Devona then noticed lights along the upper deck of the ship begin the illuminate, one by one, and music started to pulsate with such frequency that it could be heard clear down by where she was seated. Noticing this, she uncurled her legs and hopped down to the deck. She turned and gazed into the camera.

Devona: Now if you'll excuse me girls, the party awaits.

And she turned and moved through the masses to board the Grand Princess once again.

[Mercedes Vargas]

  ________________________________________
WALTER PYRAMID (CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, LONG BEACH)      
LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA
♦ ♦ ♦
el domingo por la noche, 25 de julio de 2017
Pacific Daylight Time

[Mercedes Vargas briskly heads down the parking lot as a camera crew struggles to keep up with the frustrated, agitated Grand Slam Champion. The SCW camera crew is hot on her heels, obsessed with showing the aftermath of what went down after tonight’s go-home show. Mercedes continues her pace, fishing for her car keys in her purse. She holds them up moments later then points in her general direction as two brief flashes of headlights navigates her to her parking spot. She eases into the space before turning back and seeing the cameraman wanting a quick interview.]

Cameraman: Mercedes…

[The question is cut off as she quiets it with a raised hand and crossed look.]

Mercedes: I’ve got nothing to say right now. Leave me alone.

[She says something else but this was unintelligible. This was one too many curveballs for Mercedes to handle in one night and the last few weeks haven’t been much better. Mercedes promptly opens the car door and eases inside without so much looking back at the cameraman. She slams the door still in her bad mood before starting up the engine. An orange hue illuminates the dashboard. A moment later, she holds up one hand in a wait a minute gesture and rolls down her window.]

Mercedes: Actually, on second thought, I do have something to say.

[The camera zooms in for a closeup. Mercedes unconsciously places one hand on the steering wheel while resting her opposite arm over the window.]

Mercedes: Tonight, I got nowhere closer to finding out who screwed me over in my match last week. And I guess we didn’t get anything from Hot Stuff either. Could be he was bluffing, I don’t know. That’s okay, though. That’s okay.

[She pauses, breaking contact with the camera while searching for her next thoughts. This lasts a moment before she looks up again.]

Mercedes: So Amy, after your fluke win and all, you want to start handing out advice? First of all, Celeste already beat you twice and would have done so again if it wasn’t for that small distraction that you took advantage of. Secondly, since we’re talking above advice here, maybe you need to watch the show. Delia Darling never “recruited” the Mean Girls; we kicked her out of the group. And if there is anyone who needs that little pep talk, sweetheart, it’s going to be you and Kate and Devona. Or did you forget the fact that you only have three victories over me in your entire SCW career or that you and Kate have yet to pin me in an SCW ring? You’re in way over your heads.

[A serious expression crosses her face as Mercedes continues.]

Mercedes: The thing about karma is eventually it will come back to bite you. If the person who pulled that cheap stunt on me last week doesn’t want to show their face, don’t worry. The only thing they have on their side is time. I’ll let karma do its job. But if it really was Jessie lying through her teeth and you and Kate were in on it all along, then I become karma, which means for the two of you, time…

[Mercedes points at her wrist.]

Mercedes: will be running out.
   
[Mercedes’ voice softens and she stares intently into the camera for her final words.]

Mercedes: And Devona? Luck will be running out for you.

[The roof panel of her Porsche opens and lifts and folds itself away before Mercedes drives off into the night. The camera pans back to see the car leave in a squeal of tires.]

~ ~ ~

Just for a Thrill: The Thrill is Gone

[[If all you needed to get by in this world was a positive attitude and a “can do” spirit than I would be wearing a lot more title belts. The last few weeks have been brutal, to say the least, and I'm literally on my last nerve. Five months have gone since Celeste took over the Mean Girls and while we were off to a hot start, the charm has seemingly worn off to the point where we were good enough to be thrown out in yesterday's garbage. Maybe I was in over my head. Was it even worth it? Was this worth throwing a friendship away over? It was a question I could not answer. If I knew then what I knew now, I would know more now.]]

Veronica: Me gusta la nueva mirada. ¿Es aquel nuevo rímel? ¿Qué lo llaman?
I love the new look. Is that new mascara? What’s it called?

Mercedes: Insomia. No pegue ojo en todo la noche o ayer por la tarde. Bien, las tres semanas pasadas, realmente.
Insomia. I didn’t sleep a wink last night, or the night before that. Well, the past three weeks, really.

Veronica: Y tu que hiciste ayer?
Well, and what were you doing last night?

Mercedes: Oh, poca cosa
Oh, it’s nothing really.

[[Nothing really except trying to comb through all the doubts, the why me and what ifs to the regrets and remorse and wondering if I made a huge mistake. The sun shone brilliantly across a clear blue sky and the water in the pool glitters invitingly. A inflatable flamingo waddles by. On a beautiful day like this, I know I shouldn't be in a bad mood, but can you blame me? I never took Veronica to be very religious, but she surprised me the other day when she was reading the Bible. We're in her backyard. She's sitting at the edge of the pool kicking water while I'm sitting Indian style on one of the oversized deck chairs.]]

Mercedes: You're reading the Bible? I thought you were practicing Budda?

Veronica: I’m not Budda, I’m Christian.

[[I'm surprised by this.]]

Mercedes: When did you start?

Veronica: I’ve always been a big fan. I adore Christian. I love Christian.

Mercedes: I think you meant to say you love being a Christian. Do you know what a Christian is?

Veronica: Isn't he like a person? Everyone knows who Christian is. Hello, Christian Dior?

[[I'm not sure how I should answer. I tried to explain, but I'm lost for words on how to explain this. I put my hand over my face, the temptation was too strong.]]

Mercedes: Do you even know what the Trinity is?

Veronica: Gucci, Chanel and Prada, duh!

[[And I'm done. I can't even right now.. I slip on my shades. You can decide whether it was in protest of the sun or in protest of Veronica's lack of knowledge in world religions. Veronica puts down her Bible and settles for the exotic cocktail she picks up next to her. She stirs the little umbrella before taking a sip, then turns to me. Maybe it was time to change the subject to something she does know about.]]

Mercedes: Summer XXXtreme. We're in a tag match with Celeste against MPC and Devona.

Veronica: And?

Mercedes: And we need to get our shit together or we're going to lose another match. I tried calling Celeste over, but she's not returning my calls. We're the better team on paper and in the ring. We need to start acting like it.

Veronica: Um, hello? We're the Mean Girls! What makes you think those Jealous Janis stand a chance against us? Even if we lose, it won't matter anyway. We still run SCW.

Mercedes:¡Escúchame!
Now just you listen to me!

[[I slowly sit up. So much for the ennui that took over earlier. Now I was getting a little annoyed.]]

Mercedes: "Even if we lose"? You haven’t won a match since April, Celeste lost to Crystal and Amy, two opponents she practically embarrassed before, and I lost to a fluke rookie and a fraud of a Bombshell Internet Champion, Mikah, because someone thought it was cute to play mind games with me! You think I'm going to let that slide? No way!

[[Now I'm up on my feet. My hands balls into fists.]]

Mercedes: Now Celeste may have thrown in the towel in her career, and you? Most nights, it’s like you don't even want to be wrestling at all!

[[Veronica turns her face away, but I jerk it back towards me. She needed to hear this and I hope what I way saying was getting through to her.]]
   
Mercedes: But you have something that I don’t. I have never won at Summer XXXtreme while Celeste is making her debut. All I care about is winning this tag match and ending this losing streak I'm on, and if it comes down to one of you getting the decisive pinfall or submission or if I have to go at it alone, then so be it. But I re-fucking-fuse to leave that cruise ship next weekend without my hand raised in victory. Team player this Mean Girl is not. There won't be any “girls night out” or trust building exercises on this team because there’s no excuse why we should be losing to the Metal and Punk Connection, let alone their new BFF.

Veronica: Calm down.

Mercedes: I will not calm down because this has been getting out of hand. I don’t remember us being push overs in the division we dominated, and now the other Bombshells  act like we don’t exist. And what the hell has Celeste done? Didn’t she wanted to take over Mean Girls? Was attacking Delia all for nothing?!

[[Veronica rolls her eyes. At this point, I didn’t care. I wasn’t planning on another “What I Did For Summer Vacation with another loss at the supercard.]]

Mercedes: You know what? That’s the attitude you want to have? I’m out of here. If you two are looking for me, I’ll be on the cruise ship ready to kick ass and take names next weekend. If you want to join me, fine. If not, that’s fine, too.

[[I throw up my hands in frustration and  storm off, cursing in Spanish. I’m almost sure the neighbors kids next door learned a few new words to tell their friends on the playground. If Celeste and Veronica wanted to wave the white flag, I had no plans on going down with the ship. Maybe I was made from a different cloth than my teammates. I was born to be stubborn and a little outspoken. Taught to never give up, never give in and never back down from anything or anyone. But mostly I know have to fight for myself.

Summer XXXtreme may be one of those times.]]

~ ~ ~

Postscript: This I Believe
30 de junio de 2 0 1 7

[REC•]

[The cameras warms up and we see Mercedes Vargas, sitting in front of her computer with her webcam recording. The Argentine is wearing black-rimmed glasses and eating a bag of Skittles while sitting rather comfortably outside on the balcony of her residence. As always, she is proudly wearing a Mean Girls t-shirt.]

“By now you’ve heard the podcast that aired this past Saturday night on SCW. What did I think of it? Well, if you follow me on Twitter than you already know that I expressed how I felt about the show in the form of a gif, but that’s neither here or there. Now what was said is something I could really sink my teeth into, and that, amongst other things, is kinda the point of this vlog today.”

[A small pause as Mercedes interlaces her fingers together and leans forward in her seat.]

“I know a lot of you are happy as a box of clams that the quote-unquote “Mean Morons” are far away from the championship scene in Sin City Wrestling, but maybe that’s a good thing because every passing day is one more reason why the Mean Girls is, was, and forever will be the greatest collection of talent on this or any other roster. And why as champions, twenty times over might I add, we were the only reason why people tuned in to Climax Control or the supercard. We moved merchandise in one day than any one of you gets a paycheck for one wrestling match. Every title in the division was represented – whether booked or not. You don’t get that today.”

“What was once the hottest, captivating, must-see women’s division on the planet has turned into - let’s be honest – a really bad Twilight Zone marathon that seemingly has no end in sight. Television ratings: nose-dived. Pay-per-view buyrates: downward spiral. Reactions of the live crowd: crickets and a snoozefest. And even if they had a pulse, it’s complete silence. And if they’re silent, then expect to see a firefly of cellphones around because no one cares enough to pay attention to who’s in the ring, outside of the Mean Girls, of course. These are facts, and I have to say, they’re pretty embarrassing.”

[Mercedes nods.]

“And I’m embarrassed for them. Those poor fans shouldn’t have to use Google Maps to find out where their champions are at any given show or wonder why some titles are taken hostage or have to sit through painful segments like endorsing a soda brand I bet they don’t even drink when the cameras aren’t rolling. Stop it. Get some help.”

[Mercedes shakes her head in disbelief.]

”People have said all kinds of cruel, nasty and downright hurtful things about the Mean Girls, no matter how subtle or insignificant. They love getting creative with their little put-downs and insults that I wonder if they even spend all night to coming up with them. It’s so bad that they want to push us out the door. You know, I don’t think any other stable before us got this kind of reaction. It’s just as well. Remember when I said that new Johnny-come-lately stable wasn’t going to last long? Barely over a month and already they’re thinking about dropping one of their members, if you take their word as gospel. They should save themselves the trouble and cut their losses now. They’ll be better off for it. Maybe. Probably. Definitely.”

[Mercedes shrugs. Of course, those who watched the Mikah and Kris Show knew that was a hint at Crystal Millar. Truthfully, if she was on the outs in the Black Sheep, this wouldn’t surprise Mercedes. As the only person who knew Crystal for most of her career, this wasn’t the first time her lack of drive, massive ego, or both saw her being shunned from a stable or tag team. Par for the course.]

“The Mean Girls were the best champions this company has ever had, that’s without question. But you don’t get that today. No, instead, you get a lazy Bombshell Champion wanting to play the victim card and surrounding herself with enablers because the reality is everyone knows she’s a god-awful excuse of a wrestler, a human being and world champion, and it’s not like the two champions before her were much better. That she has two title reigns to show for it is probably one of the greatest mysteries since “Who Shot J.R.?” At least we know the answer to that question. And, yes, we crowned new Bombshell Tag Team Champions but if that was received without any real fanfare and no one cared about the names holding them now, does that mean it actually happened?”

[There’s a moment’s pause here, and Mercedes looks thoughtful.]

“Then we have the Bombshell Internet Champion, supposedly the baddest bitch in all of SCW if you believe the prattling she does, cheat her way to the title she now owns. We even have championships passed around like an offering plate on Sundays because mediocrity reigns supreme in SCW. When I point out that my records with the Bombshell Roulette Championship will never be broken anytime soon, some people want to get sassy and says no one really gives a shit. So it’s okay when J2H took a red pen and rewrote the history books on his way to having the most dominant World Heavyweight Championship reign of all time or that anyone wants to chase the records for the longest Roulette reign or World Bombshell or Bombshell Tag reign but no one gives a shit when it comes to my records? You know what, that’s fine. You want to know why no one gives a shit about my records, Amy Marshall? Because neither you nor anyone else is good enough to break it.

“My third reign alone is longer than your two reigns combined, and even then they don’t even touch three months. Alexis thought Chelsea was going to be THE ONE. I told her she was going to be a one-hit wonder. I’m probably the only one who knew she’d choke and wilt under pressure. With the likes of her, Jessie and you having your hands on it, it’s no wonder why you set the standard – and all of it is low, just like the Bombshell Roulette Title since I last held it.

“The Bombshell Roulette Championship match at Summer XXXtreme isn’t what I would call a five-star match, but I won’t be looking forward to who walks out of that cruise ship with the title. Jessie and Chelsea can’t even beat each other and Samantha Marlowe doesn’t exactly scream “dominant champion.”  The girl is one match away between being irrelevant and people asking, “She still works here? Wow!’”

[Mercedes suddenly becomes quiet as she reaches for her glasses and slowly pulls them off, folding them in her hands and then placed them next to her laptop.]

“So until then, guess what, Amy? I’m STILL the most defending, longest combined reigning Bombshell Roulette Champion of all time and no one will be breaking my record anytime soon. And I’m going to continue to say it over and over and over and over until someone actually does give a shit and do something about it.”

[She brightens.]

“At least we can cross your name off as one who already failed.”

[Mercedes holds up a clipboard that list the names of every Bombshell who has followed Mercedes’ title reign. As you might have guessed, the list has grown over that two year span. Mercedes taps a red-felt Sharpie marker on Amy’s name, the newest induction to the group, before drawing a line through it. She then smirks at the name above hers – Jessie Salco. Mercedes shakes her head. Having already crossed her name after failing to retain at Blaze of Glory, it was a foregone conclusion that despite having tied Necra and her record for most title reigns, Salco’s second reign would be short lived. It wasn’t a matter of if, but when.]

“In the meantime, I’ll be over here filing my nails and pointing and laughing while you look up and see the one name you all love to hate….

[Brushing away a few strands of hair that got in the way, Mercedes lowers her voice just above a whisper.]

“Mercedes Vargas.”

[Mercedes looks up, then at the webcam, smirking all the while and waving before the screen blacks out.]

~ ~ ~

Blog: #GreatExpectations
25 de junio del 2 de julio  2 0 1 7

The greatest expectation leads to the greatest falls. I mean, you should know what that’s like, right, Amy? Let’s take a moment here and go down memory lane. A little history lesson for the Punk Princess, or whatever cute, meaningless nickname you’ve picked out this week. Let me take you back three years ago during the build up to Violent Conduct II. You and Jessie were the Bombshell Tag Team Champions. And because you felt that the Mean Girls were the lowest form of scum on a molecular level, you convinced SCW management to ban the Mean Girls from their respective title matches.

And, well, outside of myself beating four other Bombshells and walking out a three-time Bombshell Roulette Champion and Delia beating Vixen in the main event to win the Bombshell Championship, you and your bestie lost those Bombshell Tag Titles to Veronica and Liz. And within a week, to the surprise of no one, Jessie goes on a Twitter tantrum, Vixen goes into hiding, Necra and Joanne goes into thoughts of retirement, and Misty goes into the fashion industry. Orange is the new black they say, and I’m sure she wore it well when she was escorted from the arena after ruining what was our greatest moment.

You decided to change the rules, Amy, but we played your game and still came out winners. And I remembered what I tweeted that week ahead of our matches that when we won, there would be no excuses. We got exactly that, but did we cater to your whims? No. We kept winning. We continued to sweep supershows and Climax Control shows and beat up on the Roxi Johnsons and Traci Pattersons of the world – rinse, wash, repeat - until we simply got bored. The cries of us holding you down and favoritism by Mark Ward in our was one thing, but you can’t deny those were the best years this division has ever had. Had it not been for Team Hero and Natalie and yourself, we probably would still be champions right now.

You didn’t win, we LET you win. We let you have your vanilla Bombshells Division and look what’s happened since. Vixen ran off to be a mommy. Team Hero hung up their capes for the last time. Misty retired. And then the endless parade of Bombshells who lasted less than a cup of coffee. Now, look what the division has become: a few Bombshells who came back to SCW only to relive their glory days, a cesspool of pathetic champions who lash out when they're being called on the carpet and called out on their BS, and the injustice given to the only group that worth a damn in this company. No, not the Metal and Punk Connection.

The Mean Girls.

The same Mean Girls that will be standing across from you next weekend at the supercard.

Amy, once again you face great expectations in a match that you think you’re going to win, but you won’t. Because just like what happened three years ago in Yuma, Arizona, just when you thought you had all the answers, we changed the questions. The only question you, Kate, and Devona need to ask yourselves is just how bad is it going to get?

Answer: A hell of a lot worse before it gets better.

Celeste, Veronica and I are going to walk straight through you next Sunday and this isn’t going to be a match. This is going to be a war, and the three of you are going to end up as casualties. Of course, by this point, I’m sure you’re going to blame somebody when all this blows over.

At Into the Void, you had Erik Staggs to thank.

At Summer XXXtreme, you can thank Kris Halc.

~ ~ ~

#TheFloorIsMPC

Present Day ♦ L O S A N G E L E S, C A L I F O R N I A

[REC•]

Mercedes: After the last couple of weeks, the Mean Girls haven’t been winning much lately and it’s kinda hard for anyone not to notice. It’s become a running joke now that the only reason people see us is to lose. Can’t say we haven’t living up to promises lately, huh? We happen to be facing three overconfident opponents at Summer XXXtreme V and for what it’s worth, they’re probably thinking this match will be in the bag for them.

Veronica: Can you blame them?

Mercedes: Kate Steele, she of the ever-shifting hair color and endless theatrics, has never been the image of being taken seriously. Somewhere in your own little fantasy, you’re probably fixing to get revenge on me, but that’s not reality.

Veronica: In reality, I ended your Bombshell Roulette Title reign. You have to live with that.

Mercedes: In reality, you lost to me at Into the Void. You have to live with that. You have to live with the fact that you were outclassed, outmatched and outsmarted as I whipped your ass from pillar to post. You have to live with the fact that your parents made the smart choice by not coming to the arena because they probably wouldn’t make it back to the car after knowing you mailed it in.

The only thing you have going for you is beating my singles reign, but after that, what else is there? A pathetic Internet Title reign? Getting your ass kicked all across the country for an entire month? Losing everywhere from LAW to Honor to SCW? How about not winning a match in SCW for over three months? I could go on all day, but I want to save you from the embarrassment, at least until next weekend. You do a better job of that all by yourself.  

While you may have been given a contendership match in your debut, I made a name for myself before you could make a statement.

[Mercedes points at the camera.]

Mercedes: Devona…Devona…Devona. So young, so stupid. Two things that seems to go hand-in-hand. And yet here you are in your first-ever SCW supercard. For a legend like me, this is business as usual. For you, it’s no-man’s-land. When you first got here to SCW, you got into your first fight. You know who started it?

[Mercedes points at the camera.]

Mercedes: That would be you. See, all Veronica wanted to do was welcome you to SCW and your nice little contract, but you took things way too far. There must be something in that Louisiana water because that mouth have made a few enemies and that same mouth has got you in more trouble than your worth. And the funny thing is, you’ve been barely here two months. Don't think that I'm not taking you seriously, Devona. Because beyond all of the training that Odette and Gabriel has given you, I know better than anyone what you’re capable of. I’m not saying you don’t show a lot of promise, Devona. I’m not saying you don’t have potential. I’m not even saying you don’t have heart. But heart can only take you so far, potential won’t stand a chance against the most dominant stable in SCW today, and promise isn’t going to save you from becoming the next name on my checklist. What I can promise you is that at Summer XXXtreme, you’re going to be in for the worst beating you’ll ever experienced in your upstart career.

[Mercedes turns to Veronica.]

Mercedes: As for Vero here, there’s a reason she’s called First Class, sweetheart. She’s a little more in demand, importance and quality.

Veronica: I have so much class, you might as well call me TEACHER. At Summer XXXtreme, school’s in session and I'll be more than welcome in teaching you what Gabriel or Odette failed to teach you. You’re about to learn a painful lesson why messing with me was a big mistake.

Mercedes: And as for you, Amy. In your mind, you’re probably thinking that we’re equals. That you and I are on the same skill level, the same playing field. Couldn’t be further from the truth. We may be two of the only three Bombshell Grand Slam Champions in history, and you may have tied my record for the most overall championships won in SCW. The only thing you can hang over my head is that you’re in the Hall of Fame. But that will be one more thing we have in common because there’s no doubt in my mind that I’ll be inducted this year.

Veronica: And, really, who else is there, hmm? The Fallen? Gothika and Raynin has “fallen” so down the Bombshells totem pole that I bet their wondering why they ever came back.

Mercedes: Odette Stevens? Last I checked she was gone for the better part of two years before she showed up at Inception. Despite everything she’s accomplished, her resume doesn’t quite stack up to mine.

Veronica: What about Kittie, Amanda Cortez or Necra Octavian Kane?

Mercedes: What about them? Well, Kittie’s wrestling career didn’t last very long, Amanda has been in and out of SCW so many times that it’s not even funny and I’ve accomplished something Necra never has in her entire wrestling career – win the Bombshell Championship. Or maybe this will be Jessie Salco’s year just yet. She made it to the final four of the Blast From the Past, she’s now a three-time Bombshell Roulette Champion and an overall seven-time champion in SCW. Hell, she’s the first and so far only wrestler on the roster to wrestle 100 matches.

Veronica: Well, if SCW had a Lifetime Achievement Award, she would easily win that.

Mercedes: If we want to talk about longevity alone, next to you and The Fallen she’d be a shoo-in. But not in the Hall of Fame. Not when she has the most losses in the entire company. Not when she’s never been a Triple Crown or Grand Slam Champion, and she only needs the one title to get her there. She’s never going to win it. Not when better talent is leagues and galaxies better than her. Two weeks from today will be her fifth-year anniversary since debuting in SCW, but I’ll tell you what. She can rent out every Motel 6 or attend every metal concert from here to Modor, she still won’t amount to what I’ve done in my career.

[Mercedes points at the camera.]

Mercedes: Amy, you think that we see eye to eye, but the truth is I still look down on you. This isn’t a rivalry, not when it’s become one-sided. Because if memory serves me correctly, you have not beaten me in over two years in SCW and it’s been five years since your only pinfall win over me, in a tag match - and that was in the promotion we were in before we came here. The one thing I at least respect you for is that unlike the other idiots on the roster, you don’t talk about the Mean Girls and act as if I need them to help me win matches. Trust me, you would rather have Angelica and Veronica beating on you than me.

“When it has come down to you and me, I’ve had your number. I shouldn’t have to prove that for the past six years, half of that in SCW, who the better wrestler is between us. Month after month, year after year, match after match, you are looked at as my doormat. At least now you’re the doormat for the entire division. When I said that you were the new welcoming committee for the new Bombshells coming in, I meant it. And the thing is, it’s not for lack of talent. You’re talented, Amy. I won’t deny that. You sure as hell wouldn’t be where you are today if you weren’t.

Veronica: So, no, Amy, last Sunday wasn’t the best you’ve seen from the Mean Girls.

Mercedes: And I know I haven't been at my best either. Then again, I don't have to. Because even at my worse, mija, you’re still not good enough to beat me. At Summer XXXtreme, you are going to lose, Amy. And that's not arrogance, that’s not a threat, that’s not a warning, that’s a #MercyFact and your immediate future.

Veronica: We’re the Mean Girls of Sin City Wrestling. We’re not a stable, we’re not a faction, we’re not a phony religion or era, we’re a movement. We’re still a thing. That will never change. So to all the girls in the division, go ahead and shed those tears…

[Mercedes takes her forefinger and traces it from her eye down to her cheek.]

Veronica: Go ahead and cry, cry cry…

[Veronica goes further by putting her hands to her face making a crybaby gesture]

Mercedes: Whine and bitch and complain some more that even with your non-existent title reigns, we’re still the best thing going in this company. We’re in your heads, and in your hearts. You say our names and instantly you just boil with rage and jealousy. Our confidence scares the living daylights out of you.

Veronica: And like a drug you can’t just get enough of us.

Mercedes: None of you can stand it that we've survived this far for this long while name after name has come and gone through those same doors, without incident. Make no mistake: the Mean Girls are not on the decline, we’re on the rise.  And you better believe like the phoenix, we WILL rise again. And like the Empire, we WILL strike back.

Veronica: We’re the Mean Girls. Revered by some, hated by many, rivaled by few. We’re everything that you’re not…

Mercedes: Everything you claim to be…

Veronica: And everything you wish you could be.

Mercedes: We have forged a legacy that will be hard to match by any stable walking behind us, and that includes the Black Sheep. Mean Girls were here before them and we’ll still be here long after they’re forgotten. They may be on the fast track now, but no matter if they look back at the rear view mirror…

Veronica: or stay ahead of the game…

Mercedes: and Veronica:  They’ll always chasing greatness.

[Fade.]

[Mercedes Vargas]

 Dawn on a Funeral Day
Present Day ♦ G R A N D P R I N C E S S

[REC•]



[Mercedes is seen at her desk writing in her journal. Her hand moves swiftly with an old pen gliding across a page and in less time than we see the ink drying after each lift and stroke of a pen. She looks up now and again in hopes of finding the right words in crafting her entry.

For each Summer XXXtreme supercard, Mercedes has never boarded the same cruiseliner twice, or thrice in this case. In a matter of days, she will make her fourth consecutive appearance at Summer XXXtreme, second all-time for most appearances only behind Jessie Salco, who makes her fifth appearance and has been a part of every Summer XXXtreme since the inaugural event.  Unlike Salco, however, Sunday marks the first time Mercedes will not compete for a championship, much less contend for one.

Instead, the Argentine will team up with Veronica Taylor and Celeste North as the Mean Girls takes on the Metal and Punk Connection, represented by Amy Marshall and Kate Steele, and Devona in a six-woman tag team match. Anyone taking a gander at Sunday’s card would be surprised to see this match two-thirds of the way down the card, but there’s always a method to the madness as to why it was before the final four title matches on the night. One, the match features two of the only three Grand Slam Champions in SCW in Mercedes and Amy Marshall; and two, a rivalry once long dead has heated up yet again.

Those two things Mercedes was well aware of but they were trumped by the only thing that mattered to her: getting that elusive win at the supercard. Having to share a record with Jessie Salco as the only active Bombshells to have never win at the event was nauseating enough. On any other day, on any other supercard, the Mean Girls wouldn’t break a sweat against the MPC, but this wasn’t 2015. It wasn’t even 2014. And Delia Darling wasn’t at the helm. Even now, her chances at getting her first win is far from guaranteed, but should everything fall into the place it would end what has become her personal Groundhog’s Day each summer.

Devona was the newest face in this rivalry, and she already made an impression in so little time. The upstart already owned a victory over Mercedes, a fact that wasn’t lost on anyone and gnawed at her conscience since the upset took place more than a month ago. Add the fact that she was coming off a controversial loss to Mikah and there was still no word from the SCW brass about who was responsible for the stunt that cost her the match and you can see why this weekend was a must-win. Any kind of momentum was needed after the Mean Girls sting of disappointments lately. The longer that string goes, the shorter their influence was drawing to a close. Can't spin yarn without threads.

Each of Mercedes’ challengers brings something to the table though she knows Amy and Kate well enough to know what to expect. Devona was the new Bombshell on the block, one of the fresh faces looking to make a name for herself. Time will tell whether she lives up to the potential Gabriel and Odette set out for her, but having defeated a pair of Grand Slam Champions – and the success of her fellow trainee in Evie Baang – she was off to a good start.

With so many combustible elements in one six-woman tag match, it’s safe to say that practically anything and everything could happen, especially considering as to how this match came together. While the outcome has yet to be decided, opinion remains divided on which team will leave with their hand raised. Amy gave her team a huge advantage following the go-home show. Still, that hasn’t stopped Mercedes from preparing and treating this match like any other. The go-home show was two weeks ago. Sunday is Sunday.

Mercedes looks outside from a cabin window at the pristine waves crashing before her. 3 weeks. That's how long she's had to process most recent loss, and yet it felt like it happened yesterday. After the meet-and-greets and photo ops and the karaoke performances and catching up with a few people in SCW - more memories that she will later on add to the photo album she'll fill up by the end of the cruise - she was just glad to be back in her cabin. For the time being, her mind reflects on not what's what is behind but what was to come.]

[As if on cue, Mercedes looks up at the camera.]

"Since she was defeated by yours truly at Into the Void, Kate Steele has been laying pretty low. Anyone else notice that? See, I thought I was getting to face the longest reigning Bombshell Roulette Champion of all time. I thought I was getting to face Little Miss Ultraviolence, but instead I'm getting Miss Ultrasilence. But then, silence sure can speak volumes, doesn’t it? Maybe it’s true what they say that silence is golden, it’s the name of one of her arsenal of moves anyway. I’m just not sure if she’s under a code of silence or a vow of silence."

[Mercedes continues shaking her head before she raises her sunglasses over her head. From her reaction, we can't tell if she's supposed to be shocked, nonplussed, or downright disappointed as Sunday's match draws closer. She had two choices to make: take the blue pill and give Kate the benefit of the doubt, or take the red pill and expect the expected. Obviously, she choose the red pill because  her comments have seemed to have shut Kate down. Now Kate finds herself in one deep hole she may not get out of in less than three days.]

“Now, I know I love hearing the sound of my own voice, but never in a million year did I think I would render you speechless, Kate. You know, I think that could be it. You're so awestruck by the fact that after Veronica ended your Bombshell Roulette Title reign and I embarrassed you last supercard that you’ve practically gone mute. Which is funny because mute is the option people go to whenever you speak.”

[Perhaps egging her on, Mercedes speaks in a soothing, motherly voice.]

“What, are you hiding under your bed? Do I have to coax you out from your sanctuary, Katie? Because I will. Or maybe you'll be lucky enough to find some useful things down there between now and Sunday – your voice, your ego...”

[She raises an eyebrow.]

"Whatever is left of your career..."

[A small smirk crosses her face.]

"Maybe that music career?"

[She shrugs. Kate's last significant win in SCW seemed so long ago. That's because it was. Still, Mercedes wasn't letting up on her comments about Kate's struggles.]

"It's just sad that everything around you is falling apart. You're practically the reason why your little river band broke up, and that's probably the best thing that ever happened. Then again, you did go on to say that the only thing you care about is, well you. And that we shouldn't act surprised. No, you know what's surprising?

[She gives a look as if she's really expecting an answer.]

"They've moved on without you and as a result are enjoying success in their lives. What's better, they found someone else to replace you in the lineup. Pretty soon, SCW will move on without you too, Kate, and it won't be long before you're replaced as well.

[Mercedes paused for a moment, letting those comments about Kate’s work ethic and ambition sink in and calling her passion into question a little bit.]

"I think I once said having Kate in the MPC would at least make them less boring, but they can do a whole lot worse. Just as you can do a whole lot worse trying to drive a wedge between me and the Mean Girls, Amy. I'm kind of surprised you're taking a chance on this when you couldn't care less what happens to the group. Who are you fooling? You'll be one of the first ones celebrating like it's New Year's when we're no longer in SCW.

"I hear the whispers, I hear people already tap dancing on our graves, saying that we're yesterday's news. And they're right. We are yesterday's news, tomorrow's news, and we'll be Sunday's news when we walk out of this match and that cruise ship with another win at your expense. It would probably go something like, oh I don't know..."

[Mercedes pauses, trying to find the right word.]

"EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT! MEAN GIRLS EMBARRASS MPC AT SUMMER XXXTREME!"

[So not terribly original, but the headline is just about what you would expect if Mean Girls had their own newspaper.]

“That has to be at least the other better news story then knowing the World Bombshell Championship will have a new owner. That’s pretty much guaranteed, and the rematch down the road will just be a repeat of what’s going to happen in less than two weeks. Trust me, you won’t need tarot cards, tea leaves or a magic eight-ball to know that.”

[Biting sarcasm aside, there was just one other person left. The new girl, Devona. Prompted to talk more about her, Mercedes was all too willing to talk about this subject. She propts her elbows on the table and laces her fingers together.]

"Devona, Devona, Devona...It really didn't have to come to this. In fact, it never should have. All you should have done was keep that temper in check and everything would be just fine, but you couldn't resist. That beatdown at the end of our match, that was just the icing on the cake. The brawl at the go-home show was just the appetizer. Sunday, sweetheart, is where you get the buffet and I know full well that you can't fight your way out of a 3-on-1 situation. Sure Amy and Kate may help you, but they know better that facing us - as a unit - will only ende up as a disaster waiting to happen. Overconfidence is the kiss of death they say.

"You just didn't know MPC was leading to your own."

[Mercedes pauses as she sweeps back her hair from her face.]

"Good thing Odette and Gabriel will be on this cruise. While Amy is right about one thing, you, her and Kate might as well wear black. Because they won't be attending a wrestling match...

[She shakes her head slowly.]

"They'll be attending your funeral."

[Fade.]

[Amy Marshall]

 2nd July 2017
Port of Los Angeles
Los Angels
Status: Boarding.

The scene opens inside the entrance of the large and impressive departure lounge, where the cruise liner the sun princess currently docks. As the camera pans around it see many people sitting and waiting either on their own, with a loved one or with family as they wait to be called to board the liner as the camera pans around more we see the familiar faces of some of the SCW roster... in which we then see Amy standing by the entrance checking her watch as she waits for someone. As she leans up against a post, Devona appears through the doors with her partner in crime.

“Hey Amy.”

“Hi.”

Amy smiles.

“I take it you are waiting for someone?”

“I am. As always running a little late.”

Amy says with a shrug.

“Do you want to meet up later and talk tactics? And maybe talk about training together?”

“Yeah sure. I would like that. Ill text Kate and let her know too.”

“Great.”

Devona smiles and then walks away, as Jamie appears at the door with a case in his hand.

“Sorry... I....

“Don’t worry. I come to expect it from you.”

Amy smirks

“Where too?”

Jamie asks.

“To the bar. I think they are waiting for everyone to get her first before allowing everyone to board.”

Amy suggests as she looks around to see people continuing to filter through the door.

“Sounds like a good plan as i don’t see Ben here yet. Where is Joey by the way?”

“Unfortunately working. But he might a helicopter in either Saturday or Sunday.”

Amy explains as she and Jamie move away from the entrance and toward the bar down the side of the lounge, where they order a couple of beers and sit down at the bar.

“That sucks. But at least you have many other things to keep you entertained on this boat.”

Jamie suggests.

“That there is. I’m going to sit by the pool and sip on a Pina colada. Get my mind focused.”

Jamie smiles.

“Sounds like a damn fine plan. Though aren’t you going to train?”

“I am. Plenty of time to do it. Devona and i might train together, which could be interesting.”

“Hey you never know. She might just surprise you.”

Jamie shrugs, as he takes a sip of his beer, as Amy spots from the corner of her eye, Jessie, Jake and Shane enter and they spot Amy and Jamie and head their way.

“hey guys.”

Jessie with a smile.

“Beer?”

Amy greets Jessie with a question.

“Yeah sure.”

“Three more beers.”

The bar man nods and turns and grabs three beers, placing them onto the bar as Amy pays the man. While Jessie, Jake and Shane greet Jamie with a smile and a respect nod.

“How long do you think before we board?”

Jessie asks.

“Don’t know. But let’s hope it soon. People look to be getting restless.”

Jamie says looking around.

“Well while we wait, we can drink.”

Jessie suggests, as Jamie looks as if spots someone and excuses himself.

“Amy I’ll catch you by the pool. I see Ben.”

“Ok.”

Amy smiles as she and Jamie share a quick hug, as Jamie then finishes his beer and then wonders over to Ben, leaving Amy, Jessie, Jake and Shane.

“Can’t wait for this supercard.”

“Me too.”

Amy smiles, as the scene fades out with Amy, Jessie, Jake and Shane sitting at the bar with beers in hand as they wait for the call to board.


~*~*~*~
~*~*~*~


4th July 2017
Grand Princess Cruise

The scene opens inside the Fitness Centre of the Grand Princess Cruise, which is already busy considering the ship had been on the sea two days.  The day before was meet and greet, which everyone had to attend and it was a success as the fans could get up close and talk to their favourite superstars, as well as getting merchandise, autographs and pictures. This monopolised a good few hours of everyone’s time and when the meet and greet came to an end, people went off to do their own thing and there is plenty of stuff to do on the ship.

Inside the fitness centre we see Amy in a yoga pose of the downward dog as she limbers up. The last time she had done training was Saturday, so her schedule was a little off. Closing her eyes for a moment, she hears the door open and close but thinks nothing of it, until the person speaks up.

“Hey Amy.”

Amy opens her eyes and looks around to see Devona with a bag in a hand.

“Hi.”

“Free to join you? Obviously not in the yoga position.”

Devona shrugs.

“Sure. Though doing yoga can help you keep fit as well as limber.”

Amy suggests as she pushes herself up and then adjust herself for another pose.

“I’m good. I’m happy with the kickboxing?”

Amy raises her eyebrows.

“Kickboxing?”

“Yeah... you should try it.”

Amy breathes in and out for a moment...

“Actually after the yoga I was going to do a little bit of muay Thai.”

Devona raises her own eyebrows with surprise.

“From your wrestling move set, I wouldn’t have said you did muay Thai”

“I only do it for training purposes.”

“Oh wow... who taught you?”

Devona said a little impressed.

“An ex-boyfriend. He was into it and I found it quite useful with the cardio and releasing any stress.”

Devona shook her head not realising that one of her tag partners had similar taste.

“Where is Kate by the way?”

Devona changed the subject briefly.

“She said she was on her way.”

“Oh ok. Well I’ll let you get on with your yoga. Feel free to join me by the heavy bag.”

“Thanks.”

Amy says watching Devona put on pads and boxing gloves before moving to the heavy bags. Amy meanwhile returns her focus back to her yoga and quickly switches her position, but the need to do muay Thai training was too much and Amy comes out of the yoga pose and stands up straight and shakes her limbs before moving to her own bag to take a drink of water before grabbing her gloves and moves to the second heavy bag and begins to punch the heavy bag, before throwing in a couple of kicks.

With Amy and Devona in full swing of kicking and punching the heavy bags, Kate enters the gym.

“Hey guys.”

Kate smiles placing her bag down and pulls out water and a towel.

“Hi Kate.”

From there Kate begins stretching at first as she soon strikes up the conversation about the tag team match.  The scene soon fades out with Kate stretching and Amy and Devona working on the heavy bags as they discuss tactics.


~*~*~*~
~*~*~*~


6th July 2017
Vlog.

Days away Summer XXXtreme and like you Mercedes, I am very concerned about the lack of noise coming from Kate. I know that a few days ago, all three of us talk tactics and who to single out etc… but yes, I am a little concerned that Kate has yet to say anything… but you know what… there is still time… still days to say something and make an appearance. But I am glad you care Mercedes… whatever will we do without you.

Anyway… we are days away from Summer XXXtreme and the tension is building with some getting nervous and others soaking in other people’s fears and nerves. Me personally I am getting excited at the prospect of taking down and ending the mean girls for once and for all.

Although speaking of Mean Girls…. I see Delia has crawled out from under the bridge and has been posting on twitter… coincidence or not… I think you girls should be worried. I have a feeling that she might make an appearance.

Anyway… let’s get back to Sunday night.

Mercedes you talk about headlines and how the Mean Girls will make them and talk about how they embarrassed MPC, but the thing is… you are doing all the talking… where is Veronica? Where is Celeste? Heard nothing from them… if I was you Mercedes I would start to worry about whether they are going to even turn up in the match. Those are the sort of the headline you don’t want nor does Celeste and certainly Veronica.

I hope you are very very worried Mercedes because become the end of Summer XXXtreme and the end of cruise… you, Veronica and Celeste would be too ashamed to show your faces and speaking of Celeste and Veronica… obviously heard nothing from them so I am presuming then can’t come back from the things that Devona and I have said.

Shame… I was really hoping for a good fight… but instead its turning more into a handicap match.

See you bitch Sunday.

[Celeste]

 <img src=https://media.giphy.com/media/H8MmQ1EHrZfws/giphy.gif>

Hello Old Friend
#NP "The Morning After” by Meg Myers
Grand Princess Cruise


Five days on this ship.  The noise is never ending.  I’ve stayed holed up in my room, except when ordered to come out for the stupid meet and greets.  I sat at the table, while people walked by to make it to the Kris and Mikah table, or even the Bad Boys table.  I figured it would happen, so I wasn’t upset, because it was par for the course for this entire cruise ship.  But, as soon as the signing (or lack thereof) was over, I walked right back to my room.  Dax followed after me each time I was forced out of my room, and each time, I had to pretend that I didn’t care, even though it tore me up inside.  See, I’ve spent so much time pretending to be okay, even if I did a shitty job, I’ve never let them see me cry.  Today, I have no problems admitting that I cried.  I sat here, and I thought about all of the wasted potential walled up inside of me.  I thought about all of the friends who turned their backs on me, not because of a single thing I did to them, but because I decided I was tired of waiting in the shadows.  But, apparently it’s all my fault, and I’m done arguing it.  You’re right.  It’s all my fault.  I’m horrible.  I’m shit.  I’m the worst thing that’s happened since Mikah signed a Sin City Wrestling contract.  Oh, I’m sorry, apparently I’m worse than that.

I looked back at everything I’ve done in SCW.  Everything that I accomplished, and everything that I was a part of.  It seems like something to be proud of, but no one seems to think so.  As Dax walks behind me, trying to talk to me, I cover my mouth and hide my face as I walk into my cabin, practically in the bowels of the boat itself.

Me:  Oh, goddess, it stinks…

Dax:  C… C!!!  Will you please just talk to me?

As the pipes above my head hiss, I let out a small squeak of a cry, but cover it up as we walk around the corner.  My door is right there, and I put my hand on the knob, as Dax puts his on my shoulder.

Me:  DON’T FUCKING TOUCH ME!!!

I slap him across the face as I fidget with my room key, fumbling around with my to go box of food, and jiggling the handle enough for the trick I’ve learned to getting it to actually open to work.  I fail, and my box falls on the ground, spreading food all across the floor as I curse under my breath.  Dax leans down and tries to help collect it all, despite having just slapped him hard enough to make his beard move.  I knock into the door enough for it to pop open, and I close myself inside.  I lean against the door as I slide to the ground, hugging onto my knees.  I let it loose now.  I don’t have anyone to hide it from.  I’m an ugly cryer, and I know it, so I even try to shield my face from the mirror across the small cabin.  I bury my face as I sob.  After a moment, I hear Dax muttering to himself on the other side of the door.  I can’t hear what he’s saying, but I know he’s there.

Me:  Damn it, I told you to leave me alone, Daxton.

Dax:  And I told you that we’re friends, like we promised we would be before all of this craziness happened.

Me:  It’s too much for me, Dax.  Do you realize that it’s been six fucking months since I said I was going to turn my career around?  Yeah, I turned it around, right back through the fucking starting point.

I sniffle as I try my best to hide the fact that I just want to punch him in his face right now.  I look across the room at the mirror, and I see my usual angry look come back over my face.  I decide to embrace it.

Dax:  It’s not your fault that they decided to push everybody and their mother ahead of you.  You did everything you could to prove that you were championship material.

Me:  It’s all because Veronica Taylor somehow found a way to suck even more, and she dragged the Mean Girls name down to the ground, and through the mud.  They couldn’t trust a Mean Girl as a champion, unless that champion is Mercedes Vargas.  Mercy is fucking awesome, but so am I.  I was just never given the chance.

Dax:  Hey, maybe it’s because you’re as forgettable as I am, apparently.

Me:  Oh, fuck you… Seriously, just go the fuck away.  I’m done listening to your piss poor excuse for a pep talk.  Don’t you have some movie sex chicks to bother or something?

Dax:  They had to get air lifted off of the ship again.

Me:  Fuck, I didn’t even think about that option.  I’m so fucking sick of being trapped on this ship for my last SCW show.  It’s depressing enough as it is.

Dax pauses for a minute, thinking about it before speaking again.

Dax:  Last show?  Your contract is up already?  Six months fucking flies by.

Me:  Not fast enough.  I can’t wait to leave this whole shit storm behind me.  It’s hard watching people get pushed ahead of me constantly.  It’s hard to see where this division is going.  It’s hard to see Veronica Taylor constantly shitting all over everything I’ve been trying to build.  It’s hard to see everyone that I used to call friends, snubbing their noses at me.  And It’s hard seeing… you…

Dax doesn’t say anything.  I can hear some indistinct mumbling outside of my door, but I can’t tell what’s going on.  I sigh, as apparently I just unburdened my soul to myself… once again.  I stand up from the floor and pop my back a bit, ready to go lie down in bed with a sleeping pill, when there is an obnoxious knock on my door.  I go to open it, trying my hardest to yank the door open, laughing in a bitchy tone as I speak to Dax.

Me:  I thought it was Mickey who was playing peek-a-boo with the closet door, Da…

Spoiler alert:  It’s not Dax on the other side of the door.  Instead, I’m staring at a darker blonde, pregnant Alexis Edw… Staggs.  So much has changed with her, and everything in me wants to just hug her, but I put on my resting bitch face as I lean against the door frame.

Me:  Did you just have to come and get your last digs in before I fall off the face of the planet, Lexi?  Well, let me break it down for you.  I’ve heard it all before, more than once, and you should save your breath for the baby…

Lexi:  No, C… I didn’t come here to dig into you.  I promised Dax that I would come by and check on you, so… you seem pretty alive.

Me:  Yep.  You can tell that scrawny bastard that I don’t need his concern.

Dax:  I’m still right here, so…

Me:  I know, Dax!  I’m not blind, and I can smell that sandalwood oil you call cologne, so…

I stare over at Lexi as if to ask if we’re finished here.  She gives me the same look in return, before slipping a bit in the food I dropped moments ago, and she slides into my room, and topples over on me.  Dax rolls us both further in the room and slams the door shut.  We both instantly stand up, and fight over trying to get the door opened.

Me:  No, you asshole!  You gotta open it like…

Lexi:  Yeah, I know how to open a fucking door, bitch.

Me:  Yeah, well apparently not because you’re not doing it.  Is it open?  I think fucking not…

We glare at one another for a while as we both give up on trying to open the door.  Dax knocks a couple of times on the door from the outside.

Dax:  Hey, your door’s jammed.  I’m gonna wait an hour, and then get maintanence.

Lexi:  Uh, how about you go right fucking now?  I’ve got shit to do.

Dax:  You shouldn’t talk that way about your baby.  Plus, we had a deal.  You were supposed to talk to Celeste, but so far, you’re just talking with her and neither one is listening.

Me:  Same fucking difference!  Look, I know you’re trying to do something nice, but you’re being a total dick bag right now.

I don’t hear anything else from Dax.  I just hear those heavy fucking boots stomping against the ground, getting further and further away.  I sigh as I try to tug on the door.

Me:  Great.  Now it’s fucking stuck.  Thanks a lot, Lexi.

Lexi:  Me?  Thank your gay bestie slash ex boyfriend for this.  He’s the one who jammed up the door like the idiot he is!

Me:  Don’t talk about Dax like that!  He’s been more of a fucking friend to me than you ever were, even while breaking my heart by dumping me publicly and slutting it up with guys on social media.  Shitty, right?  Well, you’re worse than that.

Lexi:  Oh, yeah, I’m so much worse than Dax.  You know, what you did was pretty shitty too.

I laugh.  I shake my head, because I truly don’t understand what she means.

Me:  Oh?  Please tell me what I did to personally offend you.  Because all I did was try to advance my career, while doing or saying nothing to you or about you.  Tell me what I did that was so fucking bad, Lexi.  Please, I’m all ears.  What did I do to make you fucking hate me, after all we went through?

Lexi gets mad as she tries to muster up the words to speak to me, but I don’t give her the opportunity.

Me:  It’s not like I mother fuck you on social media at any opportunity I get, to someone who actually fucking betrayed us, but you know?  It’s whatever.  Hey, while you continue to talk shit on me, how about I go ahead and take a nap.  The less time I’m conscious on this fucking ship, in this fucking room, with you… the better…

I stand up and move to my bed, plopping down on it as I pull my blanket up to my chest.  I close my eyes, even as Alexis tries to talk to me, tuning her out as best as I can.  Lexi takes a deep breath, and pounds on the door, frustrated.

Lexi:  Look, C… we both made mistakes here, and you can’t put all of the blame on me.

Me:  Yeah… I joined the Mean Girls.  It was clearly a mistake.  I know that.  But that was no reason for you to wash your hands of me.  That was bullshit, Lex.

Lexi:  You know what?  You’re right.  That was my mistake.  I’m sorry.  No one is perfect, least of all, either of us.  I think we established that years ago when we first met.

I sigh and roll my eyes.  I kind of just want this conversation to be over, so I try my best to be convincing.

Me:  Fine.  I’m sorry too.

Failed… it came across much more snarky than I meant for it to.  Instead, I sit up and look at her and show her that I’m just ready for this whole ordeal to be over.  I open up my arms, and we hug.  Not like a bestfriend hug, but an “I don’t hate you anymore” kind of hug.  She leans against the wall as we sit there silently for a moment, letting the animosity pass us by as much as we possibly can.  Then, she surprises me.

Lexi:  So… you have a match this week, right?  You and the skanks…

Me:  Mean Girls…

Lexi:  Are going up against Amy Marshall, Kate Steele, and Devona?  What are you thinking about it?

Me:  Honestly, I hate the fact that I have to face Amy Marshall for the millionth time.  I cared so little a couple weeks ago, that I didn’t even take it seriously.  I lost, because I didn’t care.  I actually care even less this week, because it’s the last time I’ll ever step foot inside of a ring.

Lexi:  What?  You’re leaving wrestling?  For a break, or…?

I sigh as I look up at the ceiling.

Me:  I think for good.  I’m just tired of it all.  I didn’t do anything to anyone except Delia, and she fucking deserved it. I don’t know what Kris’s problem is, because I didn’t do a damned thing to him, like he did to all of us.  All I did was dethrone the worst cancer to ever step foot in SCW.  I should be fucking celebrated!  Instead, I’m a pariah.  That’s why this match came to be anyway.  Three little girls decided to poke us and piss us off.  A newcomer looking to jump the line like her partners have, and the other two trying to make a name off of us.  It never mattered how many times we won or lost.  We were always shoved to the back of the line while lesser talents jumped in front of us.  It’s a game that I refuse to play anymore.  They had a star in the making, and they shit all over her.  I’m done.  This match will be my last match.  You of all people should understand that.

Lexi:  I actually do.  If you don’t have the passion anymore, then why continue to do it?

I nod my head as I stand up from the bed.  I have to admit, I feel better, strangely enough.  But, I don’t like being trapped, so I walk over to the door to try to get it to open.  Lexi stands up too, and walks over to me, putting her hands on my shoulders.

Me:  Lex, please no repeats of before…

Lexi:  Fuck you, C.  I’m trying to have a moment.  Look, if you ever need to talk to anyone, you have my number.  It hasn’t changed in two years now.  I’ll be around.

Me:  Likewise.  Now, let’s knock this fucking door down, shall we?

We begin kicking and shoving into the door until it starts to splint.  It’s a tough door, so it takes a while.  But, as long as I get out of here by Sunday, kick a little basic ass, and move along… I’m straight.  Later, fuck wads!

[Devona]

 Sunday July 02

The door to the cabin opened and Devona almost dropped her carry on bag in surprise and delight. When she was first informed by Gabriel and Odette that she was to be booked on this cruise event, Summer XXXTreme V, in a six woman tag team match against the Mean Girls as a collective unit, she was delighted. Not just for the reason she would be able to get her hands around the necks of all three Mean Girls in a single match, but it was the fact that she would be on her first cruise -- ever! I mean, how cool is that? From as long as she could remember, Devona had never left the state of Louisiana, and here she was now; a professional wrestler for one of the hottest indy companies on the market, SCW. Thus far she has been to California, Nevada and Arizona; and mow she followed up those three tours with her very first major event, one uniquely held on the deck of the Grand Princess Cruise.

Admittedly it took her longer than expected to find her cabin, not knowing where to go or look, and feeling just a hint self conscious about asking anyone to lend a hand. I mean, just because it was her first time on a cruise didn't mean she had to go and advertise the fact. Her two best friends Beauty and the Beast pretty much did that already. Still, she had finally yielded and asked a porter for directions on where to go, and now here she was.

She took a step inside and her breath was caught in her breast. She had expected a small cabin, something you might see in a TV series or a movie. But this was delightful. She set her bag down and shut the door behind her, and her eyes proceeded to roam everywhere to take in all the details. It had to be just over two hundred square feet with a rose colored carpeting and a queen sized bed decorated in white with purple and orange accents. There was a desk she could put her laptop on, if she had the spare time perhaps she could even engage Gabriel in a little online GTA or join Beauty in one of his many Dragon Age adventures. She was uncertain if either opportunity would arise as Odette had warned her ahead of time although she would have plenty of time to have fun and relax alongside her boys, this was also what SCW thought of as a working holiday. She even noticed that her complete luggage had already been delivered to her room by the cruise's staff.

She moved further inside to inspect, as she simply was on Cloud Nine given the circumstances. The closet she was provided here was much larger than even her one at home! There was a customary fridge and digital safe, and....

The light in the bathroom switched on and she bit her lower lip to keep from squealing like a school girl at the sight of the spacious private bathroom and shower. She turned off the light and stepped out to see against the far wall, a floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door that led to her own private balcony. Her own private balcony! She pulled the door open and stepped out and she had lucked out to be facing the ocean rather than the port, as the cruise was to set sail in less than two hours. The waves were calming as she watched them, and then spotted a few gulls flying over the waves and towards the land. The ship itself was on such a grand scale that she could barely sense the motion of the still ship in the water's waves.

It made her wonder how poor Beauty would fare when they finally set sail, what with his sea sickness.

With the two chairs on the balcony and the table, she just knew that her favorite boys would be frequent guests in her cabin to hang out and just talk, like they were prone to do back home, late into the night hours. She was now dying of curiosity as to seeing their room and how they'd like it, but she just wanted a few more moments to herself to enjoy feeling like a princess. Stepping back inside the cabin and shutting the glass door behind her, she noticed the flat screen television up high on a shelf, and even a menu for twenty four hour room service. She had no doubt that Odette and Gabriel had something to do with these accommodations.

She turned her back to the foot of the bed and fell back to the comforts of the queen sized bed, reveling in the luxury when the outburst startled her....

Beauty: WHAT DO YOU MEAN I HAVE TO SHARE A CABIN WITH KING KONG HERE!?

Devona's eyes closed and she couldn't help but chuckle. Quite the impressive outburst from Beauty -- especially considering her boys' room wasn't even on this deck!



Monday July 03

It was a tradition, from what Gabriel and Odette had told her during breakfast this morning. For the first actual "event" during the cruise to be a gathering between the fans and the wrestlers who they had paid handsomely to attend alongside this cruise and Summer XXXTreme V. Privately Devona wondered the logic in a Meet N Greet being held on a cruise where the wrestlers and fans were together the entire time. Still, it was not her place to question nor argue, so she was ready, bright and early.

Dressed in an off-the-shoulder, black top, a jean skirt and matching heels, Devona stepped inside of the room hosting the fan related event and she immediately knew why the higher ups held this event specifically during the event, and felt the fool for wondering about it. The room was nothing short of large, perhaps a ballroom or theater in other uses, but as far as the eye could see there were waves of fans, young and old, male and female, wandering around with bright eyes and huge expectations. And scattered throughout those large numbers of people were the ones they came to see, the men and women who made SCW tick. Wrestlers who put their bodies on the line, and even the bosses were gathered there, both to greet the crowd as well as ensure all went according to their planned desires.

Heck, Devona even caught sight of some of the staff of SCW; namely the ring announcer Justin Decent, as well as the broadcast commentators, Belinda Simone and Jason Adams, chatting with fans and indulging with snapshots and signed autographs.

And all along the four corners of the room were tables set up for specific wrestlers, namely the higher ups. Champions and main event contenders mostly, with their respective merchandise on display for sale. The hosts for Summer XXXTreme V, her trainer and mentor Gabriel, along with that funny little fella Despayre, were seated at such a table together and had quite a long line ahead of them of fans wanting to get the chance for a photo op and to speak a few words with them.

Beast: Excuse me, are you the famous rookie Devona?

Devona turned around and her face split into a bright smile as her two friends had found her in the crowd, or were most likely waiting for her impending arrival. She had told them to go ahead of her and mingle with the wrestlers while she finished getting ready. For this event, they weren't just there as her personal cheerleaders; they were fans themselves. And they were obviously prepared to ham it up where she was concerned as Beast leaned at the waist and clasped his meaty palms together.

Beast: Gosh! I can't believe it! The famous Devona!

Whereas Beauty leaned back and fanned himself with one hand.

Beauty: Oh! I feel ever so faint from excitement! My heart is all a flutter!

Beast: What happened? Been looking in a mirror again?

Beauty: At first I thought so but turned out it was the window and you were on the other side. Scared the hell out of myself.

First thing Beast did was envelope his bestie in his huge arms for a brotherly hug before he released her, followed up by Beauty who repeated the gesture.

Beast: We know you got to make your rounds so we won't take up too much of your time Didi, just had to do one thing.

Devona: What's that?

Beast and beauty then each jumped to a side of her and made the goofiest poses and facial expressions, while Beast held his arm out with his camera and took a selfie, capturing her in a state of laughter to the boys' silliness. They then took off to get some more time with SCW favorites, Beauty trying to lose his brother in the crowd and Beast trying to keep up with so as to keep him from getting himself in trouble.

Time passed during the event, Devona taking little time off for a break for rest or meals, as the cruise staff catered food into the ballroom for the wrestlers while fans circulated in and out. Devona was seated at a small, unoccupied table taking just a bit of time to eat some Chinese food when a timid voice drew her attention.

Fan: Excuse me, Devona?

She looked up to see a young fan who had gotten her picture and autograph not more than two hours ago. He was young, he said only thirteen years old. A handsome boy with beautiful dark skin and above all else, humble and polite. He had acted almost as if asking for her autograph was an inconvenience to her then, and now that he saw she had been eating, he seemed to trip all over himself.

Fan: I'm sorry. I didn't realize...

He pointed at her meal and she smiled, waving her hand at him.

Devona: No, don't worry about it chere! What can I do for you?

Fan: Well, I... I remembered that you said you liked some video games and you had liked Pokemon?

Devona thought back and smiled, nodding her head. As a teen, she indeed did love Pokemon, and to date she enjoyed playing all manner of video games; from Dragon Age to GTA and a handful of others.

Fan: Well I asked which Pokemon was your favorite and you said Pikachu.

Devona: Ohhh! He is, he's so cute!

The fan smiled and reached down into a bag he was carrying.

Fan: Well, my family was in one of the gift shops and I saw something I thought you might like...

Devona: Oh sweety, you didn't...

But he did. The fan pulled out a bright yellow Pikachu beanie and held it out to her, offering it up.

Devona: Wait, for me? You bought this for me?

The fan nodded, having used his own vacation funds to buy this gift for a favorite of his, and Devona was touched. truly touched. She felt a warm glow as she reached out and the moment she accepted it, she could see it meant the world to the fan.

Devona: Oh chere...

She used the affectionate Cajun term for the fan and stood up to gather him in her arms for a quick hug.

Devona: You didn't have to do this!

The fan was so adorable, the way he hunched in on himself and shrugged his shoulders.

Fan: I know, but I wanted to.

So delighted was she at this random gift from a fan, she wasted no time in slipping the Pikachu beanie atop her scalp and she posed beside the fan for a snapshot, courtesy of his parents. She then held a forefinger up and held her camera over for the fan to take and she posed, and the picture he took then and there for her own benefit was the very same one she had posted on Twitter later that day. She then placed her hands on his skinny shoulders and gave him a peck on the cheek, drawing a few loud hoots and hollers from his older brothers! The boy looked absolutely star struck as his parents and brothers led him away to see who else they could meet.

And the next couple of hours passed by pleasantly so when Beast approached Devona amidst a few fans.

Beast: Have you seen that annoying little twat of a brother of mine?

Devona laughed.

Devona: What happened? Did he finally manage to lose you?

Beast just answered with a frustrated expression and nodded. She pointed off across toward the West side of the ballroom.

Devona: Last I saw him, he was headed for the table where Sam Marlowe was signing.

Beast closed his eyes.

Beast: Awww CHRIST!!!

And he turned and power walked over to...

... Where Sam sat back in her chair with her perpetually polite smile on her lovely face, while the amorous Beauty leaned over on the table where she sat with an arched brow and a wink of the eye.

Beauty: So have you been to see a doctor lately? Because you could use a dose of Vitamin Me-OW!!

Beauty yelped as Beast snatched him by the earlobe and dragged him off and away from the perplexed Samantha Marlowe.



Wednesday July 05

The Oasis bar aboard the ship was normally closed and only open for special events and occasions, and this certainly qualified in the minds of the adult passengers and lovers of jazz music. Devona certainly included herself in that particular circle, and she made plans to attend the moment she heard it was happening. The Blues Cruise event was a little something for adult guests only, despite the implication of the name. A live jazz band was on hand to play some of the best New Orleans style jazz tunes for the entertainment of the guests, while those in attendance were served special samples of wine in a coupled tasting event.

Dressed in a red cutoff shirt over a black bra, blue jeans and black heels, Devona stood at a reserved table she had arranged for her, as well as three invited guests. She had tried to get Beauty and Beast to tag along, knowing they enjoyed jazz as much as she, but Beauty had made some kind of appointment and Beast went along as his little brother's un-official babysitter.

Amy Marshall, Kate Steele and Jessie Salco sat around the circular table, each with a wine glass in hand, and they chatted casually while listening to the music. And although it was a known fact that punk and heavy metal were more in tune for the three, the ladies were good sports and listened to the music that their soon-to-be tag team partner took to heart.

Besides ... wine!

It was a wine tasting and Devona bought a bottle of her favorite red wine, Stella Rosa 'Stella Black.' It was a dry, semi-sweet wine that Devona loved and thought to share the experience with the three members of the Metal and Punk Connection.

Devona: Ladies, I know jazz isn't really your thing but I really appreciate your coming with so I could share a little of myself, like you did for me in your music.

Amy: No problem. Besides, there were no metal or punk bands playing.

She winked as the other three women chuckled.

Jessie: And besides...

Jessie raised her wine glass and gazed longingly at its contents.

Jessie: This is some damn fine wine!

Devona raised her glass, and Kate and Amy followed suit.

Devona: Then may I prose a toast? To new friends, a new team, and the poor, sad bitches who are going to regret getting on our bad sides!

Kate, Amy and Jessie could only agree with that toast and they each raised glasses and clinked them together.

The evening went on when Devona felt a buzz go off in her jean pocket. She reached in and fished out her phone and had a look at the text message she had received.

Beast: Get to the Lotus Spa! You gotta see this!

As the band was taking a break, Devona sighed and stood up.

Devona: Well ladies, it's been a delight. But apparently my boys need me.

With the party breaking up, Amy, Jessie and Kate followed Devona's lead and took their leaves from the Oasis Bar...

And after a few directions, Devona found herself at the deck with the Lotus Spa. She walked the hall until she came upon Beast who was leaned back against the wall, beside an open door.

Devona: What is it? What's going on?

Beast just smiled and jetted a thumb at the open door frame. A curios frown on her face, Devona moved to the door and had a peek inside. Her eyes widened, and she looked to Beast, back at the sight before her, then to Beast again. She snickered back a laugh and cleared her throat.

Devona: This is too funny. I have to get my camera from the cabin.

And she hurried away, passing J2H and Melody Grace before she started laughing aloud!

(And if you want to know what she was laughing at, I suggest you have a read of J2H's roleplay! Go on, do it!)



Friday July 07

The sky had long since descended to night with the stars and moon shining brightly. Beast and Beauty had called it a night and excused themselves back to their shared cabin, and now Devona was lying back on the deck chair on the patio of her own cabin, just looking up and out over the Pacific.

Devona: Two days. Two days from now and Summer XXXTreme V will be here, and then it'll be over and dealt with, just like the Mean Girls. This past week alone? It has been nothing short of a wild ride, one that at a point in time, I never thought I'd be a passenger on. This cruise has given me the chance of a lifetime, to get to know and mingle with not just the fans, but some of my peers and even my tag team partners for the coming six-woman tag team match. I know. Jazz wasn't their thing and I think they pretended to enjoy themselves more than they should have, but I can't say that I don't appreciate it. Amy Marshall and Jessie Salco are lovely ladies, as is Kate Steele. They are all three strong and true women of the ring, and I am honored to know them, and honored that in two days I will be teamed with Amy, a Grand Slam Champion, and Kate, a former Internet and Roulette Champion. I couldn't be any luckier to have them as my partners, and truth be told? I feel just a little bad for them being saddled with the rookie and all. But I believe that when the time is right, we'll gel just fine and come together long enough to plant the bony butts of the Mean Girls right through the ring mat.

Now this won't be my first match against the Mean Girls, oh no. I got the distinct pleasure of facing one Mercedes Vargas in only my second match, and I could practically hear the thud when Celeste and Veronica's jaws hit the floor when I pinned the Grand Slam Champion. That's right. Little ol' me, a wet behind the ears rookie that Veronica thought a waste of time and space, pinned Ms. Vargas in only her second match. Some call it luck. Some call it destiny thanks to Gabriel and Odette. But me? I just say that it was entirely my pleasure.

Celeste is the only one I haven't really come face to face with, save for that little incident where she and Veronica jumped me backstage. I can only imagine what a shock and disappointment all this must be for her. After everything she did to manipulate the Mean Girls and get Delia Darling ousted as the leader so she could take over, to see that all crash and burn at your feet?

Devona clucked her tongue and shook her head with a pained expression.

Devona: Apparently you either suck as a leader or this is all some sort of master plan to lull the Bombshell roster into some false sense of security. But I doubt it. When Delia was present and active, the Mean Girls were a force to be reckoned with. Celeste takes over, and suddenly they're yesterday's news. I for one would love to see Celeste try and explain that to Veronica and Mercedes.

And you know who Celeste and Mercedes will have to blame for this? Their own, Veronica. Because it wasn't me who got in Veronica's face, it was the other way around. It was Veronica who walked in on my contract signing and tried to prevent me from signing on the dotted line. It was Veronica who talked down to me like I was nothing and advised me to not even bother signing. It was Veronica who took the first shot and slapped me across the face, and I won't suffer any putain insulting me in that way, without a little payback. How's your teeth anyway, Veronica? Hope they didn't come back in too crooked.

So ladies, and I use the term loosely; after all is said and done and you wonder what happened after we beat your sorry backsides from one end of this ship to the other? Just look to Veronica. There's your answer.

[Crystal Zdunich]

 On The Top Deck



The loud SCW crowd all lined up as they all gathered around at the top deck of the cruise ship. It was time for a Guilty Pleasure concert as Kate stood center stage with a microphone locked tightly in her lips. The concert was quite the success as Kate blew kisses to the audience and she jumped off of the stage to clap the hands of the fans all circling around her. She couldn’t help but grin as she ran over to Amy Marshall and gave her friend and tag team partner a long passionate hug. The two of them smirked at one another as they nodded at each other.

Amy: Great stuff Kate… Simply beautiful you rocked it tonight… You even had to carry Kenzi Grey too!

Kate just smiled as she nodded her head in agreement.

Kate: Oh I know… Kenzi’s good don’t get me wrong but when it comes to vocals no one is as good as me. There’s a reason why they call me a Siren. My vocals always lure everyone right in and once they do… Boom SHIPWRECKED…. Just like that….

Jessie Salco can’t help but smile as she approaches the two women while she was wearing a band shirt. She looks at Kate offering a wide grin.

Jessie: It wasn’t that bad… I am just happy I was able to form a pit to that. It was good stuff and I normally don’t care for punk as much as I care for metal.

Amy: That’s if we are classifying what Kate was singing as true punk… It’s more like pop punk just doing what’s necessary to dish out a few digital downloads and get radios to play her stuff.

Kate: Hey go easy on me… It still presented an awesome listen did it not?! That’s what it should be about. As long as I am able to put a smile on some people’s faces why should anything else matter?

Amy: I guess you do have a point I guess we can let you slide with that performance.

Jessie: Yeah agreed… But let’s be truthful here had it been some metal then of course it would have been that much b….

Kate can’t help but grin as she shakes her head at Jessie.

Kate: Wow… Thanks for the compliment I guess… Anyway has anyone seen Devona? I thought this performance of mine could have been a great team building and bonding outing.

Amy: I don’t think it’s really her type of atmosphere. I don’t think she showed up.

Devona: Actually I did… I don’t really care for the music but it sounded good from what I heard.

Kate smiles as she nods her head in agreement.

Kate: Thank you… I needed to hear that. You have no idea at how much that means to me.

Amy: Well we got some training to do… So why don’t we get to it shall we?

Kate: Sounds like a plan. Let’s go!

[Lament Broom]

 The scene opens up on the cruise ship where Summer XXXtreme V would be taking place. The golden princes's cruise was a top of the line cruise that would be getting a top of the line wrestling show as was the annual tradition.  Inside of her luxry cabin is none other than the First Class Mean Girl and one of the founding mothers of the group that would take on the team of Kate Steel, Amy Marshall and the rookie Devona.  It has been a war between them with the Mean Girls trying to make the life of the rookie hard in SCW. However, they did not count on Kate Steel and Amy Marshall getting involved sticking up for the rookie. Leading into this intense six woman tag team match. The smug mean girl is sitting in front of a giant mirror highlighting her face she smirks knowing how hot she looks at least in her mind.  As the arrogant cuban soon begins to speak in her normal arrogant tone.

Veronica Taylor: Ugh basic slaying night aka Sumer XXtreme 5 is just a few nights away. Can you feel it? Good because the Mean Girls are going to be back on the winning path after the show you basics will not have anything to say because all I have heard is how our time is up puhlease?! If anything it is just beginning again and after we deal with Kate Steel, Amy Marshall, and  Devonna lets start with Amy and Kate you two punk rock sluts getting involved in official mean girl business that is so not cute.

Veronica rolls her eyes before speaking again.

Veronica Taylor: Because tonight I am going to make sure you two are gone forever out of our lovely hair. And Devonna you got mixed up because you could have learned your place without any problems it would have been easy for you, but no you had to be difficult.  And now you have to pay the price and get your makeover. And I am so sorry bout it basic but you have to learn somehow and what better way than by at the hand of the Orignal Mean Girl.

Veronica blows an arrogant kiss as the scene fades to black.