S U N P R I N C E S S C R U I S E L I N E R
[Mercedes Vargas gazes out at the breathtaking skyline, her long black hair cascading down her back, framing her face with an air of elegance. Dressed in a striking short red dress, she commanded attention, the vibrant color echoing her passionate spirit. A delicate blue flower nestled behind her right ear, a subtle yet charming detail that added a touch of serenity to her appearance.
[She slightly lowers her head, the pain of Sunday's outcome at Summer XXXTreme still felt raw, still felt numb to the point where she struggles to process her emotions, the weight of disappointment hangs heavy. Memories of the match replay in her mind, each moment a reminder of what could have been.
[Ricardo walks onto the deck, noticing her near the railing.]
RICARDO: You all right? You’ve been quiet since the match.
[His voice breaks the silence, prompting her to look up, revealing a flicker of vulnerability beneath her poised exterior.]
MERCEDES: Just trying to wrap my head around everything. I thought I had it in the bag.
RICARDO: I know it hurts. But you fought hard. That counts for something.
MERCEDES: Does it? It feels like a failure right now.
RICARDO: It’s not. Every setback is a setup for a comeback. You’ll bounce back stronger.
MERCEDES: You really think so? I just feel lost.
RICARDO: Trust me. Take some time, but don’t let this define you. You’re too talented for that.
MERCEDES: Thanks, Ricardo. I needed to hear that.
RICARDO: Anytime. Remember, even the best have their off days. Look at the champions; they’ve all faced defeat at some point.
MERCEDES: That’s true. I guess I just wanted to prove myself, especially after all the buildup.
RICARDO: And you did! You showed everyone what you’re capable of. It’s just one match. You’ve got a whole career ahead of you.
MERCEDES: I know, but it’s hard to shake off the feeling of disappointment. It’s like a shadow that won’t leave.
RICARDO: I get that. But think about what you can learn from this. What would you do differently next time?
MERCEDES: I suppose I could focus more on my strategy. I got a bit caught up in the moment.
RICARDO: Exactly! Use this experience to fuel your fire. You’re not just a competitor; you’re a force to be reckoned with.
MERCEDES: You always know how to lift my spirits. I appreciate you being here.
RICARDO: Always. And hey, how about we grab some food? A little distraction might help.
MERCEDES: That sounds perfect. Let’s do it!
[After their exchange, Ricardo gently places his hand on her shoulder. It was the least he could do.]
• • •
[Mercedes and her friends disembark from the cruise ship, the salty breeze tousling their hair. As they stepped onto the dock, the sun warmed their faces, and laughter filled the air as they chat about the memorable experiences they shared on board.]
IRMA: I can't believe the cruise is over! It feels like just yesterday we were setting sail.
TOMAS: Remember that sunset dinner on the deck? It was breathtaking.
HUGO: And the karaoke night! You totally stole the show, Mercedes!
MERCEDES: Only because you guys cheered me on! What was your favorite part, Richie?
RICARDO: Definitely the snorkeling trip. Those fish were so colorful!
IRMA: I loved the dance parties! We should do this again next year.
MERCEDES: Did I mention I’m heading to Thailand?
IRMA: Wow, that sounds fantastic! Are you trying any local dishes?
RICARDO: Next time, we’re all going together. I want to experience that!
TOMAS: Absolutely. What are you most excited to see?
MERCEDES: The street food. I've heard the pad thai and mango sticky rice are must-tries.
HUGO: Those are delicious! Are you planning to visit any temples?
MERCEDES: Yes! I want to see Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. The architecture looks stunning.
IRMA: You’ll love it! The culture is so rich. Are you going to do any shopping?
MERCEDES: Definitely! I want to check out the markets for some unique souvenirs.
RICARDO: Make sure to bargain! It’s part of the experience.
MERCEDES: I’ll keep that in mind! I’m just so excited to immerse myself in everything.
HUGO: You’re going to have the best time! Have you thought about any specific markets you want to visit?
MERCEDES: I’ve heard the Chatuchak Weekend Market is a must. It’s huge and has everything from clothes to handicrafts.
IRMA: That sounds amazing. Just don’t get lost in there. It’s easy to spend hours browsing.
TOMAS: And make sure to try some street snacks while you’re there! I’ve heard the grilled meats are incredible.
RICARDO: Oh, and don’t forget about the coconut ice cream. It’s supposed to be heavenly.
MERCEDES: I’m writing all of this down. I want to make the most of my trip.
HUGO: You should also check out some cooking classes. Learning to make Thai dishes would be a fun souvenir to bring back.
MERCEDES: That’s a great idea. I’d love to learn how to make green curry.
IRMA: And you can host a dinner party when you get back to show us what you learned.
RICARDO: Count me in! I’ll bring the drinks.
THOMAS: This is going to be epic. We’ll be living vicariously through you until we can go together.
MERCEDES: I promise to take tons of photos and share all the stories. I can’t wait to tell you about my adventures.
IRMA: Just make sure to send us some pictures of the food. We want to drool over your meals.
MERCEDES: You got it. I’ll keep everyone updated. Now, let’s grab a bite to eat before we head home. I’m starving.
IRMA: Good idea. Let’s find a nice café nearby. We can keep the vacation vibes going just a little longer.
TOMAS: Lead the way, Mercedes. We’ll celebrate the end of this trip and the start of your next adventure.
[As they walk together, laughter fills the air, their excitement for the future blending seamlessly with the memories of their recent cruise.]
• • •
Present Day ♦ S A N T A M O N I C A, C A L I F O R N I A
[REC•]
[In front of the camera, Mercedes takes a deep breath, her excitement is adamant as she stands confidently at Santa Monica Pier, the vibrant atmosphere buzzing with energy around her. Dressed in stylish summer gear, she sports a fitted tank top that showcases her toned arms and a pair of high-waisted shorts that highlight her athletic build. A pair of trendy sunglasses rests atop her head, catching the sunlight, while her hair flows freely in the ocean breeze.]
"So, Summer XXXTreme has come and gone. I poured my heart and soul into that the Ultimate X Over the Pool. I fought hard, and while I walked off that cruise ship empty-handed, again, I know I gave it my all. The competition was fierce, and I learned a lot about myself and my opponents. That said, Victoria Lyons, I owe you an apology, I really wasn't familiar with your game. I don't get impressed easily, and I was left impressed. We may be going our separate ways, but I'm sure this won't be the last time we see each other."
[Mercedes pauses, takes a deep breath, and clenches her fists, showcasing her determination. Like Mercedes, Alexandra Calaway and Bella Madison also gave their all, but Victoria wouldn't go quietly. In Mercedes's mind, it was destiny delayed, not denied.]
"After some much-needed R&R, I'm ready to step back into that ring and prove myself as we approach this weekend's showdown. That leads me to this weekend where I, Mercedes Vargas, step into the ring against Diamond Steele and SCW newcomer Raine. This is supposedly a Proving Grounds match, but exactly who has something to prove here? Raine stumbled in her debut last weekend and Diamond is four matches into her in-ring return and her first match in over a month."
[Mercedes exudes confidence as she addresses her opponents with unwavering determination.]
"Raine, I'll start with you. Now, I get it. It’s tough starting a new job. The anxiety, the butterflies, making a first impression – preferably the right impression...it’s enough to make anyone a nervous wreck. Taking the SATs would be a piece of cake compared to this. And no matter how many times you've convinced yourself, the butterflies in your stomach never seem to let up. The questions never seem to let up either: are your coworkers going to like you? Were they going to pick on you? How are you going to act around management? Fitting in as “the new girl” and starting out on the right foot are probably the least of your worries, mamita. Living up to the hype you've built up for yourself is probably going to be tougher than you expected."
[Mercedes pauses, crossing her arms confidently, and gives a knowing smile, as if to say she's been through it all before and emerged stronger.]
"For the first time in years, you're the rookie again, the newcomer, the fish out of water. Having to learn new names and faces will take getting used to, but then this is what you signed up for. You signed on the dotted line and now you're officially part of the Sin City Wrestling roster. The first few days, weeks and months will be telling as to how you're received by what I'm assuming will be a capacity crowd in Bangkok, Thailand in just a few days time.
"Your opponents will be ready, the crowd will be ready, but will you? As the latest addition to the Bombshell roster, you had better be. In a division of twentysomethings, overnight sensations, yesterday's hopefuls, and tomorrow's stars, keeping up is only half the battle.
[Mercedes takes a moment to adjust her stance, exuding confidence and focus.]
"Now the question remains whether you will stand out from the crowd or become just another face in the crowd. I know you are one of my next opponents, and it doesn’t matter to me what you’ve done in other companies. You believe you are the hottest new thing on the block, but on Sunday, you are just another person standing across from me. And I’m going to beat you because I’m not just better than you think—I’m better than you think you are."
[Mercedes leans in slightly, her eyes locked onto the camera, intensifying her message.]
"Now, granted, you may have given Andrea a run for her money last weekend, but when it comes to skill, I’m in a league of my own. You’re stepping into the ring with someone who’s not just experienced but relentless. I’m sure you’ve taken the time to study my moves, anticipate my strategies, and prepare to counter everything I throw at you. You might think you’ve seen everything I have to offer, but trust me, I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve.
"I know you’ll bring everything you have, and I welcome the challenge. But understand this, Raine: I’m not just another opponent. I’m a competitor who thrives under pressure, who rises to the occasion when the stakes are high. But don’t think I’m going to underestimate you; every loss is a lesson learned. Lucky for you, school’s in session, and I’m the teacher. Raine and Diamond, you may think you’re ready for this challenge, but I’m about to school you in the art of wrestling."
[Mercedes gives a confident nod, as if to emphasize her readiness and determination. She pauses, letting her words sink in before turning her attention to Diamond Steele.]
"And as for you, Diamond? It’s been a while, hasn’t it? Almost too long. I’m genuinely glad we're sharing the ring for the first time in ages, but maybe you don’t feel that way, and that’s okay. Since Into the Void, you kinda fell off the grid in SCW, so I totally understand that Mark had to find warm bodies for this tournament of his, but if you think you can just stroll in and take the spotlight, I’m here to remind you that I’m not just another opponent. I’m a force to be reckoned with. We’ve shared this ring, faced each other time and time again. If you think I’m going to be intimidated or worried because you showed up, or because your name is next to mine, you are dead wrong.
"Here's the thing that sets me apart from every other so-called 'legend' in this business. I'm not content with past glories. I'm not here to rest on my laurels or reminisce about the 'good old days'. Every match, every promo, every moment in this ring is another chance for me to prove why I'm the best damn wrestler SCW has ever seen."
[Mercedes Vargas continues, her eyes locked on the camera with a determined gaze.]
"This Sunday, it’s not just about reminiscing on past encounters; it’s about creating a new chapter. A chapter where I come out on top, where I show the world that I’m not just a name from the past, but a dominant force in the present. The only thing that this match is really about for me, is proving myself at least one more time."
[Mercedes Vargas takes a moment to let her words resonate before delivering her final thoughts.]
"So Raine, Diamond? bring your best, because I’m coming to claim my victory. The question isn’t who is going to let me; it's who is going to stop me."
[As she exhales slowly, a flicker of determination ignites within her, pushing her to confront the challenges ahead, ready to channel her frustration into future victories.
[Her voice softens.]
"Prepare for the worst, hope for the best. And may the odds be ever in your favor."
[With a fierce determination, Mercedes Vargas walks away, leaving a clear message that she’s ready to dominate and teach a lesson in the ring.]
[***Fade***]
