WEST BRACKET: ADA / SHAWN / KELSEY

The first round took a lot out of Kelsey, she isn't going to lie. She had promised that she would throw everything she had at Brandon. That she would give him her best shot, if he gave her his best shot in return, which he did. Just as she had given to him - and it was her who had been able to come out on top. She had been the one to walk out of the arena with the victory next to her name. The one who now finds herself heading into the semi finals of the tournament, due to both her potential opponents for the quarter finals being eliminated from the tournament.

It's not what she had expected, or even what she desired, but sometimes - things happen that lead to plans changing. That lead to circumstances you couldn't have predicted arising, just as they have here. It's as Alyce told her during the camp - prepare to expect ANYTHING happening in wrestling, whether or not it benefits you. Plus, it means that she has time to scout out her possible semi-final opponents and then the potential match up for the finals, even if she knows she cannot allow herself to think too far ahead.

"I. I did it."

She mutters under her breath, as she sits in an ice bath, wearing a pair of black shorts and a white/icy blue t-shirt, within the confines of the special "recovery" section of the Adams training Center in Rochdale. The same facilities she has been using ever since she arrived in England.

One of the best things about this, is that Scott is massive on treating wrestling like the sport that it is supposed to be, so he made sure that he forumulated Kelsey's training in that vein. From the recovery sessions like this one, to the light and heavy sessions and even, everything has specifically been tailored to suit what she may need. To ensure that she is as precise and refined as she possibly can be. All so that she can truly show the world what she is capable of between the ropes.

"I overcame everything he threw at me. I went out there and showed them that I'm not just here for the experience. I'm not just here because of my name. Or because of who trained me like some people might think, but I'm here because I plan on shining. On making sure that the world knows just what I can do between those ropes."

"I do want to thank you, Brandon. You gave me your best. You showed me just what I have to expect each and every time I step into the ring. You gave me the taste that I was craving and now I want more. I want to be able to step into that ring and push myself the way I did against you."

Smiling, she stands up, her body numb from the combination of pain and the ice, before stepping out of the bath - being mindful not to slip and fall over on the Lino floor as she does. Beginning to make her way over to the oak bench to her left where she had left her gym bag, she thinks about just how much adreniline ran through her body last night. The warm and fuzzy feeling that rose within her as soon as she stepped out onto the stage. The fans, all cheering for her as she walked down to the ramp, making her almost forget about the situation and become lost in the moment, as Bianca had told her to.

Despite the climate feeling as if she had travelled to the North Pole, she enjoyed that. Although she prefers the Summer, she has never really felt the cold. Even during the heart of winter. To her, it's just another day and as long as she can find ways to keep herself warm. As long as she is able to block it out and focus on the things that she needs to, then it will never truly affect her or impact how she goes about things. She then unzips her gym bag, looking for the change of clothing she brought with her, befote extracting them.

Meanwhile, in the lobby, Bianca is sitting atop a chocolate brown cushioned chair, waiting for Kelsey. She, and not Scotty, is the one here to pick her up today, as Scott has a few things he needs to do before he flies out on the 29th to head back home to Australia for a few days for New Year's, though he'll be back before the Ice Crown finals. Looking around, she thinks about how proud she was of Kelsey. Of how well Kelsey took to actually stepping into the ring for the first time in a setting like this.

She knows that she was like a scared little puppy dog the first time she had stepped into the ring, yet excited at the same time and that it shows whenever she watches it back on tape. If Kelsey was nervous during the match, Bianca didn't see it from her vantage spot in the 2nd level of the crowd. Continuing to glance around, she pulls her phone out from the pocket of her jeans, looking at it and trying to find a number.

In the passageway, Kelsey saunters down, a soft smile across her face as she looks at some of the pictures adorning the walls. She is familiar with the people within some of them. Whether it be Alyce, Emily, Sari Nicholls or even Scotty himself, but the other pictures, she doesn't know.

"Don't get too far ahead of yourself, Kelsey. Just take it one step at a time."

She thinks to herself, even if she does aspire for her name to be within a portrait just like them one day. It's not something that she can allow to consume her however, for her sights have to continue being set on the Ice Crown tournament as a whole. That is the reason she is here and that is what shall guide her next steps within the scope of her career.

It is what will reveal whether or not she is truly ready to take the next step and fly free from the nest and showcase her talents on a global scale, or if she still needs some more polish back home. Turning left, she enters the lobby and sees Bianca standing there, a smile across her face.

"Hey Bianca."

Bianca raises her head, hearing Kelsey's greeting.

"Hey Kelsey! You were absolutely awesome last night."

Kelsey laughs. She had simply gone into her studio and slept last night, before waking up at 6:30 am and coming right here, without popping in and seeing Bianca.

"Thanks. I tried to have fun out there and just embrace the moment. I wanted to give Brandon a show and make sure people knew what I can do in the ring."

"You succeeded. You lit up the night sky and made me so happy to be able to watch you in person. I know Scotty feels the same way too. He wouldn't stop raving about you when we got back haha."

Kelsey's jaw drops. Had she really impressed him that much? Like, for real? She knows about his prestige. His legacy in the industry, so to hear that makes her feel both fuzzy AND nervous at the same time.

"R. Really? I impressed him THAT much?"

"Yeah, you really did."

Her face starting to flush, she feels as if she is about to faint. To her, this is the highest praise that she could have received. Especially this early into her career. Taking deep breaths, she manages to regain her composure as Bianca stands up, having noticed the blend of joy and almost panic that was flowing through her body. A few more deep breaths later, and Kelsey feels herself managing to regain her composure.

"I. I don't know what to think --- I'm just so grateful for everything, but to know I have impressed him makes me both excited and nervous. I wanna make sure that I keep proving him right. That I can show him his faith in me is placed in the right person."

Bianca shoots her a supportive smile. She knows deep down, that Scott will eternally by proud of her, even if there are times he doesn't outwardly show it. It's something that she has learnt about him during their near 6 years together as husband and wife as well as her 15 plus years as his friend.

He's the sort of person who can come across as cold, but he does it to ensure he remains as goal focused as possible. Kelsey will learn about that side of him in time though, and it IS something better learnt about than told.

"Don't worry. You will. There's a reason he has taken as much of an interest in you as he has. He sees a lot of himself in you ---"

Bianca covers her mouth after that last part. She hadn't intended to say it, but luckily, she managed to lower her voice enough to ensure Kelsey didn't hear it.

"You ready to head back home?"

"Yeah, I am."

Nodding, Kelsey follows Bianca as she begins to make her way towards the exit to the clinic, in the direction of the carpark, where her violet painted 2003 model Nissan Skyline is awaiting them. Now, is the time for celebrations and continuing the recovery from Kelsey's bruising encounter against Brandon Hendrix. Her match ups for the semi-finals and even the finals can be dealt with at a different time - and those preparations WILL be crossed off when the time calls for them to.
---

Bianca sits at a coffee shop in Manchester, having come out here to meet with someone that she knows. A wrestler that she has stepped into the ring with a few times, who has just flown in from Australia late on Monday night. Surprisingly, this WASN'T actually on Scotty's command, but Bianca's own - before heading out, Scott had left her everything in regards to Kelsey's training and also informed her that she was in charge of it. Anything she felt she could enhance the training with, she could do. Much like their arrangements when it comes to Adams Enterprises. Glancing left and right, she watches as people walk down the footpath, though none of them are who she is waiting for presently.

Meanwhile, at the training facility, Kelsey is about eleven reps into her session with the punching bag, the first workout that has been assigned to her for the day. Each kick delievered with a force like a bus hitting a car, the bag shakes as the sound of its stainless steel support beams as it sways from side to side before she delivers another kick, this time with her opposite foot. Maintaining her balance as she does so by firmly planting her non-kicking foot on the floor.

"Focus."

Her statement followed by a deep exhale, she delivers another duo of kicks to the bag, as Molly Hunt, the trainer working with her for this session walks over. Watching as each kick causes the bag to nearly break away from its support chain.

Molly- Looking good, Kelsey. Keep it up, and make sure to put your hips into each kick.

Nodding, Kelsey delivers another rep of two to the bag, before lowering her left leg and simply watching as the bag continues to swing. Wanting it to steady before she resumes.

Back at the coffee shop, Bianca takes a sip of the mocha on the table in front of her, as she continues to await the person to arrive. Looking down at her phone, she smiles at a message she has received from Larni. One that simply informs her that the deal pertaining to the construction of new classrooms at one of the schools Adam Enterprises runs is underway. She'll call her back when she gets home.

Another message is there - this one from the person she is waiting for, informing her that she is almost there. Just as she finishes reading it, she notices the woman walking over to the table, a soft smile across her face.

"Hey Bianca. Been a while since we last talked."

Bianca softly laughs, glancing up.

"It has been indeed, Kristy. Glad you could make it."

At the training centre, Kelsey has just finished the final of 20 reps at the bag, sweat starting to glisten in the light off her body, as Molly directs her over to the rowing machine. The focus of today's session being on improving her core strength, which is already at a decent level, but something that she could always improve. Figure out how best to harness it when she steps into the ring, especially when it comes to her striking game.

Whilst it was good against Brandon and she felt like she had managed it well, she knows that it's something she needs to keep working on. Keep refining because it is her main weapon. Her means of continously applying pressure to the opponent throughout the match. A fact that Scotty and Bianca have noticed as well. Hence why they are having her work on it in this session. Sitting down, she grabs the wires that are on the machine as Molly checks the weight. Ensuring that it is the 180 lbs that was written down on the session plan. Upon seeing that it is, she nods at Kelsey, watching as she begins to pull back on it, slightly straining as she does.

At the coffee shop, Bianca sits on one side of the table, mocha still in front of her, as the woman now identified as Australian wrestler/karate specialist Kristy Knight sits opposite her. The two having finished with their catching up portion of the discussion, seeing as they haven't seen one another in around 11 months, since Bianca flew out here to England alongside Scotty.

"So, what is it you need? I know you DIDN'T just call me over here to simply catch up."

Bianca chuckles. She's right. As much as she had liked to catch up with Kristy, it wasn't the only reason she had called her out here. Plus, she knew that Kristy was taking time off from her work with her own martial arts school to be here, something that wouldn't have happened for a simple catch up.

"You're right. I called you out here because I have a favour to ask you. Something to help out a project that Scotty and I are working on --- or rather someone we're working with?"

"Is it Kelsey Frost?"

"How did you know?"

Kristy simply laughs, as she points to her head.

"I --- have my sources. Nah, I had figured it was, because I knew she had flown over there to live/work with you two. News travels around fast, especially in our circle."

"Ah, true. Then you should know about the Ice Crown tournament she's in then?"

"Yep. I heard about her win in the first round. She looks good in the ring, even if still a little bit raw. Better than I was my debut anyway."

"Better than I did too. In fact, I think my debut was against you, or maybe it was Kristen."

"Haha, Nah, it was against me."

"Haha. 'Twas a fun match though. Showed me a lot about myself. But alas, we can regale each other about that match another time."

Bianca softly smiles.

"The reason why I called you though is because --- she's potentially gonna be facing off with a karateka in the semi finals of the tournament. Ada Pierce. And well, who better to help her prepare than someone who has made karate into an artform like you have."

Kristy nods, softly smiling. She had vaguely heard of Ada, being a karate practitioner and all, those tends of things tend to float around in discussions, but had only briefly seen her tapes.

"Haha, true enough I guess. I know OF Ada. Heard about her - don't know her or her particular style."

At the training session, Kelsey, feeling latic acid flowing through the entirity of her body and her breathing quickening, completes another squat. The sixth of her rep of fifteen as Molly spots for her.

"Keep focused --- this is what you want. This is what gets you to where you need to be."

Her words a means of motivating herself as she does another rep, she can feel the throbbing pain within her body. At this point, most people - including herself, would hsve taken a break. Yet she knows that isn't an option for her. Not if she is gonna persevere and rise beyond her own physical barriers. Not if she truly wishes to make it in this industry.

To her, the pain is what is pushing her further. It is what is driving her, just as it had against Brandon. Just as it will against either Shawn or Ada in the semis and against whoever it is she could be facing in the finals. That's if she makes it there.

"You're made for this. You're built to do this --- now it's time to show them that."

Another rep, as Molly's eagle eyes continue to watch her. Kelsey is special in her eyes - even among the array of talent she has worked with in her homeland of America. She has the mentality and the physical attributes to make it big in this industry - something that was evident from the first session she worked with her. She felt the intensity. The passion for this sport that runs through her veins.

Molly- Make sure your legs are steady. Try to maintain a wide stance.

She calls out as Kelsey adjusts her stance, her legs having slightly slid in whilst she completed her reps, thus making the squats harder than they had to be.

"I cannot afford to back away now. I cannot afford to take anything lightly. Especially not with what lays ahead."

Quietly commenting this, Kelsey completes her tenth rep, before rising up to begin another.

"Absolutely."

Back at the coffee shop, Kristy, following a sip of her black coffee, affirms that she is more than happy to help out with Kelsey's training. Teach her all that she knows about karate and what to expect from Ada, should it be her that Kelsey must face in the semi finals.

"Awesome. I know she'll love that too. Especially if it means she can keep working on those strikes."

Kristy laughs, as Bianca softly smirks. She knows how much Kelsey loves her strikes, having felt them first hand and witnessed them against Brandon, much as Ada herself had used her strikes to her advantage in her bout against Willheim Screem.

"Haha. I'll watch some film of Ada when I get back to the hotel and see what we need to work on with her. See precisely where she stands in terms of rhythm and moveset and work from there. I'll call ya tonight too."

"Sounds good to me."

Kristy smiles, finishing her coffee as Bianca takes the final sip of her mocha, before glancing slightly at the time.

"Sorry to cut this short, but I promised Scotty I would drop a few things off at Chris's by 1, so I gotta run. Talk to you tonight though."

"All good hun. Talk tonight."

Bianca begins to walk into the store, in order to pay for both of their drinks before heading off to run the errand for Scotty and having put at least one part of her training plan for Kelsey into place.

Back at the gym, Kelsey, now sitting on the bleachers and with a towel draped over her shoulders, simply glances forward. Her body aching but a sensation of relief flowing through her. It's as the old adage goes - no pain; no gain. Something she has lived by her entire life. Whether it be when she was a gymnast or now that she is a wrestler. That hasn't changed.

"Do your worst. I'll still be here, no matter what."

Her words stated between breaths, she curls her lips into a smile. To her, it won't matter who she faces in the semis, whether it be Shawn Wylde or Ada Pierce, or even who she ends up facing in the finals. She is still gonna be the same Kelsey. The same woman, looking to make her name in this tournament. This industry.

"No matter who you are, I plan on making sure you understand just why I am here and what I can do when the lights shine. Just what I am willing to do, in order to give everyone what they desire."

Glancing upward, a focus appears in her eyes as she prepares for the next portion of her training session.
---

Kelsey sits atop a steel chair, alone within the confines of what appears to be an abandoned warehouse. A stoic, focused expression is across her face as she looks forward. Her eyes shimmering as the singular light overhead reflects off them.

"The first step is often the hardest step to take is what they told me. It is one thing to have trained. Worked for this, and another to actually go out there and do it. But I did, and I am still here. Still standing, despite everything Brandon threw at me. HE took me to my limits, and I appreciate that. I needed him to, and he stepped up to the plate."

"But now, I know that the challenge is only truly beginning. Now, I know that I cannot just rest on my laurels, for he was only the first. He was just the first hurdle that I had to clear if I wish to shine. If I wanna make sure that I go out there and show them that I am the one they should have faith in. If I am to fulfil the promise that I made to Scotty. To Alyce. To Emily. To Bianca."

She lets out a soft, reflective breath upon stating those words.

"If I am to become the Ice Queen, I know that I will have to get past either Ada or Shawn. One of them, being a master of karate and one of the toughest women in this industry. Somebody who I truly admire watching in that ring and cannot wait to stand across the ring from. The other, is a name that I do not know, yet that was the same against Brandon. I watched his match against Zachary Phoenix and he has talent. He has the ability and the experience to make sure I remain on my toes at all times - and I will."

"Both of them present a challenge to me. Both of them know what is needed to win. To make sure that it is them that shines, and so do I. That is what makes either outcome fun. That is what is driving me to continue putting everything I have on the line. Making sure that I continue pushing myself and going BEYOND even my own limits."

"It is what you deserve. Just like it will be whoever it is that I may face in the finals. Whether it be Edda Wilcox, Alessia Capello, Terry Marshall or Ethan Rivers who manages to step up. I will give them all I have inside of me, for I know they will be doing the same."

Thinking, she softly shakes her head. She knows that she cannot afford to think too far ahead. That Ada and Shawn should be her focus, for she may not even get past them.

"Don't worry - my focus right now is on the two of you, Ada and Shawn. For you are the next bridge that I must cross. You two are the ones who I will be awaiting in that ring. And it is there that we will put on a show, each of us putting everything we have into ensuring we are the ones who walk out with the victory. Making sure that the moment we step into the ring, the other is given an experience they will NEVER forget."

She chuckles to herself.

"I know it's gonna be fun. That it's gonna be a night that I hold near and dear to me. I just hope the two of you can say the same when it's all said and done. So, do your worst and I'll do mine, Ada and Shawn. I will see you there."

She then stands up and begins to walk off. Knowing that she has the chance to either step into the ring against somebody she has the utmost respect for, or somebody that is just as Brandon was. An unknown. Either way, she plans on simply having fun and giving all that she has inside of her. For the pain. The adulation of the fans sparked something inside of her. A feeling she wishes to retain, even as the tournament goes on.

Kelsey sits in front of an oak table that has been set up within her studio, a bottle of water to her right and a bowl of salt and vinegar chips in front of her. A little bit of a treat for herself, considering the new year's period plus the fact that in a little over a week's time, she will be entering the final stretch of the Ice Crown tournament, where she will have to win twice in the same night, if she is to walk out with the actual crown to her name and become known as the woman who rose above the rest in her first true test, especially considering where she has come from and the work she has put in to get to this point. It may be clichè, it might be the same rhetoric that you've heard many wrestlers or even people talk about in the past - yet it is the truth. She has given everything she has to even get to this point and will continue to do so, as she progresses throughout the course of her career.

Raising a chip to her mouth, she chews down, thinking about everything she has done - even in the last week when training with both Bianca and guest trainer/karate specialist Kristy Knight, attempting to gleam as much information as she can about those who she will potentially be facing off against in the semi-finals of the tournament. In particular, Ada Pierce.

"Honour. Respect ---"

Those are the 2 key components to Ada, from what she has seen of the young karateka. Both inside and outside of the ring. Kelsey remembers the footage. The videos she had watched in order to learn about the young beauty from Wolverhampton, as well as the comparisons that have been made to herself, in terms of their personality. How Kelsey is just like Ada was when she first came into the company. Innocent and sweet. Something that makes Kelsey smiles, as that is the person she wants to be known as - it is the sort of woman she strives to be. It is the light she wishes to bring upon the world, just as she stated the first day she walked into the gym.

"Those are the 2 things that tie us together, Ada. It is those threads, that are key to who we are. That guide our path through this world."

Kelsey smiles, as she crunches down on another chip, her face cringing due to the taste, though it returns to normal soon enough. Either way, her thoughts continue to be fixated on Ada. How the 2 could very well be seen as peas in a pod, and how some may say that this is like looking into a mirror and seeing the other in the reflection. Not just on social media or TV either - Bianca has even stated that to her. Their work ethic. Their proficency in the ring during the course of their young careers, Kelsey's career being even younger than Ada's in terms of duration and their jovial demeanours. Letting out a soft breath, she takes a swig of her water before slightly repositioning her body in the chair, her expression is one of relaxed joy.

"They are what we have brought us to where we are today. It is what makes us who we are - two people who value the honour, the respect that this industry holds. The honour of being able to go out there and give our all each and every time we step into the ring and look out to the fans. Every time we look at our opponents, we know that the only way to truly respect them. To truly give them the battle that they deserve, then we must bring everything we have, for they will be doing the same to us."

"It is why I admire you, Ada. It is why you are one of the people I truly respect with all of my heart. From the moment I first saw you compete in the ring, I saw somebody who I wanted to be like - somebody who went out there and fought for everything she has. A woman who managed to make things happen for herself, no matter who stood in her way. An inspiration to those who watch her, just as you were to me. You were the one I could make sure to watch every night when I got home from either school or the gym and watch on Netflix."

Her facial expression sincere, she thinks back to when she would sit in front of her computer, a bowl of chips like she has rignt now on the table next to her and watch First Class on Netflix. Imagining that one day, she would be able to call herself a part of them - or at the very least, have the opportunity to face them in the ring.

It is why she was excited when Alyce informed her that she would be participating in this tournament - yet she was nervous at the same time. She still is nervous, if she's to be totally honest with herself. Although she may not show it, she is daunted by the competition surrounding her. Names that hold more weignt in this industry than hers and people who have been wrestling a lot longer than she has.

She is afraid of what might happen if she fails. If she simply goes out there and falls flat on her face. It scares her more than anything else - even though she knows that sometimes, failure is inevitable and that it can be her greatest learning tool. It can be those failures that make her stronger in the long run. Something that her gymnastics coach hammered into her when she was younger.

"And now --- I possibly have the chance to step into the ring and face you. The chance to face off against someone who I earnestly hold so much respect for and honestly, it's intimidating. It's frightening to think that it will be you and I, alone in that ring. One on one and staring one another in the eyes, not looking to hold back. Not looking for anything else but to win. Yes, I know that Shawn Wylde could very well throw a spanner into those works. That it could be him that I face, and I will be ready for him if he does, for he is good too. He is talented in the ring, just as Ada is."

Kelsey lets out a deep sigh.

"But you are the one I wanna face, Ada. You are the one who I want to see in that ring, because it is the ONLY way I can see where I stand. It is the only way I can truly look into the mirror and see just where I stand. I know they say to never meet your heroes. That when you do, they may disappoint you - but deep down, I know you won't. I know you're not like them. That you truly have light and joy within your heart."

"I know that it is you, who can bring the best out of me. That if it is you that I meet in the ring, that we will put on a show. A fight that nobody will ever forget - regardless of who wins. And after the match, I know that we can go backstage and laugh about this match. Smile and maybe even eat chips together, because you are the sort of person I could see being friends with. Somebody who I can just hang out with."

Feeling excitement running through her veins, she takes another swig of water, before grabbing a stack of 3 chips and playfully tossing them into her mouth. Chowing down on them as she continues to stare forward. A small shimmer appearing in her eyes as she thinks about that possibility, before her face droops slightly as she remembers the reality.

The fact that there will not be friends inside of the ring come the Ice Crown semi-finals, but opponents. It's as she learnt during training - that as much as she might wish for there to be, there are no friends when you step into that ring and compete. That everything goes out the window the moment that bell rings, something that she has always disliked. She's a person who if she is your friend. If you and her are bound together by a bond, it will not matter if you are her opponent in that ring - she will still be your friend. Both in the ring and once the match is said and done.

"No matter what happens, I know that we will make magic happen. That we will hold honour and respect in our heart and when it is all said and done. When that bell rings, we will have built a foundation. A bond that will remain eternally within our hearts. A moment that we can look back on and realise that this is where we both looked into each other's eyes and saw ourselves. You saw the person you were and I saw the person who I want to be."

"It doesn't matter to me what people might think. It doesn't matter what people might do, because Ada, you are an amazing competitor in that ring. You are stunning. You are somebody who has stood tall and remained themselves through everything. And that's the you I want in the ring. That's the you I know that I have to face if I am to truly take my next step. If I am to begin writing this next chapter in my story, for it is the only way I will be able to know just what I am going to have to face. What I will have to overcome, if I am to truly be the light that shines."

Slightly pushing the bowl off to the side, she moves her body slightly forward. Making sure that the focus within her eyes is clearly visible to those who may be watching.

"I do want you to promise me one thing though, Ada. If you do beat me, if it is you who manages to take her place in the finals of the tournament, I want you to go out there and win it. I want you to be the Ice Crown holder if it cannot be me --- because you deserve it."

"I promise that I will go out there and give it everything to do the same if I am the one who is able to walk out the winner of our impending match. No matter who it may be that I face in the finals. Ethan Rivers, Terry Marshall, Edda Wilcox or Alessia Capello. I will give them everything I have and carry both of our aspirations on my shoulders, just as I hope you will if you defeat me."

She then exhales, thinking about not just the possible bout with Ada, but also the 4 names that she had mentioned. 4 people who could very well be her opposition, should she make it into the final. If she can continue the 'cinderella' run that she is on, as some might call it. After all, when the brackets were first revealed, there wouldn't have been many people who would have expected her to make it this far in the tournament, outside of her trainers.

Not even she expected to make it this far, herself. Now that she is here however. Now that she HAS made it this far, she believes in herself. She knows that it will take all that she has, yet that is EXACTLY what she is willing to give, if it means she can continue this dream. If it means that she can continue to showcase herself. Continue going out there and ensuring that she puts on a show. Each and every night.

"I want you to do your worst to me, Ada. I want to see that fire. That passion that I know you have within you, because I will be bringing mine. I want to feel your heart, just as you will feel mine. And let the better woman on the night be the one who stands tall."

Smiling, Kelsey holds a dreamy expression within her eyes. This match means the world to her, and now, she is only a matter of days from going out there and facing either Shawn Wylde or the woman she sees as an inspiration in Ada Pierce for the right to reach the Ice Crown tournament finals, and even win the tournament as a whole.
---

There are plenty of things you can say about Kelsey. There are many things that she can be called. Starry-eyed, youthful, naive, energetic being among them, but one thing she ISN'T is unaware of what people say about her. Of the whispers that ruminate whenever her name is brought up in discourse. Whether that discourse be on forums online or even in the streets. She hears it, she reads it and she knows what people think about her. What they thought about her.

By that, it is referring to Erick Elliott's comments pertaining to her and using her as a means to try and talk down to Brandon Hendrix, who she defeated in the first round of the Ice Crown tournament, and his opponent on the upcoming episode of Mayhem. She doesn't know much, if anything about Erick. Never met him or even watched him wrestle in the past, yet his words struck her to her core.

They hit her hard, seeing him think of her as nothing more than just another 'diva'. A mere weakling who should have fallen to Brandon, but didn't. After all, that's what most people would have thought upon first glance at the match. Brandon was supposed to be too strong for her. He was supposed to overwhelm her and brush her aside. Yet when they got into the ring, she took everything that he had to offer and kept standing. Kept coming back for more, until she was able to hit the Bridled Rage and pin him.

"I proved them wrong --- I showed them that it wasn't about the size of the dog in the fight, but rather, the size of the fight in the dog."

She sits atop a bench at a park, overlooking the vast, vacant land surrounding her as she remarks that. A soft look within her eyes, she exhales. Trying not to let the words get to her, but unable to shake them. Yet it is not just Erick's words alone - it is also the dismissive nature of Alessia Capello. The fact that in her eyes, Kelsey is just a tool. A little speedbump standing between her and Ada Pierce meeting in the finals. A meeting that she has claimed is destined to occur.

"They keep counting me out. They keep seeing me as nothing more than a name. A face, there solely to fall at their hands - yet each and every time I go out there, I give them all that I have. I go out there and fight with everything inside of me, so that they can understand. So that they can realise that I'm not just gonna lie down. I'm NOT just gonna step off to the side, just because it is what they believe I should do."

"Yet that's not the sort of person I am. It's not the sort of person I want to be. Every time I go out there, I don't just fight for myself. I don't just fight for the fans. I fight for Alyce. I fight for Emily. I fight for Ricky. I fight for Bianca. I fight for all those woman back home, who may never get the opportunity I have. I fight for those who wish to have someone they can look up to and say 'I wanna be her when I grow up', because I was just like them. Just now, I have been able to get this shot. This opportunity to live out my dream."

She sighs softly, thinking about everyone that is back home. Watching her step into the ring and wrestle. Take on people who have been in this industry since she was a young child. Since she was in the shoes of those who she wishes to become the guiding light for, because it is what they deserve. She wants them to look at her and see that it IS possible to make it. That it is possible for them to be just like her, no matter what others might say. No matter what they might elect to believe, she plans on ensuring they know just what resides within her heart. The undying spirit that she brings forth, no matter who stands on the opposite side of the ring to her.

"I know I'm not the biggest. I know I'm not the strongest or the fastest, but I don't need to be. All I need to be, is the one who goes out there and gives you all that she has. The one who simply refuses to die. The one who will stand up and tell you to bring all that you have, because the fire. The flame that resides within me will never be snuffed out. It will not matter who you are or what you might believe, because when I step into that ring and look you in the eyes, you will see somebody that simply never relents. Never gives up, and somebody who you will have to try and put down over and over again."

"Whether it be Alessia Capello or Erick Eliott or anybody else, you will see that you can NEVER truly count me out. That you can not see me as just being another woman, because you will be in for a surprise if that is what you assume about me. You will be in for a shock when I keep standing. When I stare at you and ask for more. And you'll finally see that this isn't just another person. This isn't somebody who you can simply dismiss as a 130 pound diva, but that you wi see as a warrior. A gladiator who does not know the meaning of the word surrender. A woman who wishes for nothing more than to bring light upon the world."

Leaning forward, she smiles as the crisp, cold wind circulates around her, brushing against the fabric of her jacket and jeans. A fire evident within her eyes.

"This is my life now and I embrace that. It does not matter if I win or lose, because I know that deep down, I would have proven you wrong either way. Just as I did when I beat Brandon."

She then softly laughs.

"And I will continue to do so, as long as I am here. As long as I keep standing."

She then stands up, beginning to walk off. Having said all that she wishes to. For she knows that she may not be able to change everyone's opinions on her, but what she CAN do, is continue to prove them wrong. Something she fully intends on doing.
---

"Hey, Kelsey!"

Hearing her name being called out, Kelsey glances up from her position at the kitchen table inside of Scotty and Bianca's house. Bianca had told her to come in, as she had a 'surprise' for her. The voice is familiar to her - it is that of somebody she trained with during the camp back home. Somebody who she had listed as an inspiration to her during the advertisment for the Adams Wrestling Clinic she did.

Madeliene Satterfield - the "Alpha Wolf" as she occasionally goes by. Her jaw dropping, she cannot help but smile. She had not expected this to be the surprise, but it makes her giddy inside. Just as she was the first training session she had with Kristy in the gym, learning about karate and other techniques in preparation for night two. For whoever she may have to compete against in the semis and even the finals. Even if she is trying NOT to get too far ahead of herself.

"MADDY!"

"Haha, been a while, hasn't it? How you doing?"

Laughing, Maddy flashes a smile at Kelsey. They had talked over the phone for Christmas and New Year's, but it had been a month since they had seen one another in person.

"Yes! I'm pretty good. Nervous about this tournament, but still fighting. Still giving them my all, just like I did with you."

Maddy nods. She had seen the first round match Kelsey had, and remembers the same intensity she had given her when they stepped into the practice ring the first day of the training camp.

"I saw that. You were extremely impressive out there against Brandon. I will admit --- I was a little nervous about how you would go, but you handled it amazingly."

"Really? You really think I did?

"Of course! You looked like a seasoned veteran out there. Like, you managed to use Brandon's greatest asset against him, something even I would have struggled with."

Kelsey cannot believe what she is hearing. She had never thought someone like Maddy would have any issues in the ring, yet here she is. Stating that Kelsey managed to pull off a feat she mightn't have. And in her first ever match too. Maybe she is doing it just to ensure that Kelsey retains confidence, but it is still extremely high praise nonetheless. Plus, it is working too.

"Wow --- I guess I just have to keep living up to that high bar then."

Her head beginning to feel light, Kelsey takes a sip of the water that is in front of her as Maddy sits down.

"Haha. I'm sure you will - but that's not why I'm here to talk to you about. Well, not exactly."

Surprised, Kelsey's eyebrow raises. Curious as to what else Maddy might have for her.

"I actually have something special for you. A little present that I think you will love. Actually, I KNOW you'll love it."

It is then, that it can be seen that Maddy has placed a small box on the table. Like the one Kelsey got from Bianca when she recieved her new attire. The attire that she wore when she faced Brandon and will continue to wear with pride as her journey in the ring continues. Reaching out, Kelsey pulls the box closer to her as she glances at Maddy.

"Go on, open it ---"

Doing so, Kelsey's eyes begin to widen as she peers into the box. Seeing a framed picture of her, standing in front of the Adams Wrestling Clinic HQ in Eltham, a wide smile across her face. Placing it atop the table, she reaches again into the box, this time pulling out a Icy blue and white jacket. A similar style to the ones that Maddy has worn throughout her extensive career, and with an icy falcon design emblazoned on the right breast.

"Oh my god. I love this, so much."

"I thought you would. I had that picture framed for you - just a way to remember what has led to you being here. A way to know we are ALWAYS with you, no matter what."

"The jacket is a gift from me personally. I had my personal designer make it. Think of it as a way to ensure you always stand out when you walk out to the ring. When people see the shine that emits itself from you."

"Thank you ---"

Speechless, Kelsey simply stares down at the jacket. Feeling the fabric in her hand as she runs her hands up and down it. Entering the room, Bianca smiles, cradling Lucina in her arms. A smile across her own face as she looks at Kelsey.

"We are all super proud of you, Kelsey. Whether or not you win the tournament ---"

Maddy then interjects.

"We know she will though."

"Between all of us, Maddy's right. But that's not to discount anyone else. We just know what you're capable of. Go out there and win this. For us.

"I'll try. I can't promise I will, because they are all tough challenges but you guys have built me for this. I'll go out there and make sure that I do you proud."

"I know you will. You've got this, Kelsey. Bianca's right though, we will ALL be proud of you, no matter what."

It's all smiles now, just as it has been. Kelsey knows that if she glows. If she goes out there and shines, then nothing else will matter. The words. The actions. They will be like water off a duck's back.

"I've got this."

Quietly remarking this, she exhales. That is the mentality she knows she has to take into the ring if she is to have any chance. If she is to become the Ice Queen.

"No moment will be too big. I've been working for this all of my life, and now, I'm not gonna let it go."

"That's the spirit. Believe in yourself and everything will fall into place. Control all that you can and it will all sort itself out."

"I will. This is my chance to make a statement. Send a message that there is nobody who will intimidate me. Nobody who I will back down from."

A new sensation of confidence rushing through her veins, Kelsey simply looks at Bianca and Maddy. Knowing that she plans on making them proud. Of showing just why she is willing to do whatever it takes in order to win the Ice Crown tournament. Regardless of who it might be that stands in her path. It is on them to be aware of her. To step into that ring, so that they can see the warrior spirit that burns inside of her, first hand. All that is left now, is for the action to unfold ---.

It's almost here. Night two of the Ice Crown tournament, where 7 competitors are vying for the chance. The opportunity to be known as the Ice Queen or Ice King and the prestige such a title will hold. The right to claim that they were the one who was able to stand tall. The one who went out there and overcame whoever they needed to, and did what was ultimately required of them to walk out with the victory.

One of those 7 remaining, is Kelsey Frost, who just as she has been ever since she left the arena following her Night One win over Brandon Hendrix, is solely focused on what awaits her. On the challenges that lay ahead for her. That has been the focus of her training and strategy throughout the past fortnight - both with Kristy and Bianca and on her own.

Making sure that she is at her mental and physical peak when she steps into the ring - whether that be against Ada Pierce, which she desires, or Shawn Wylde. Those 2 have been her primary focus, as they are the ones she is awaiting following their own bout, however, that doesn't mean that she hasn't been looking over at the other side of the bracket. At the 4 names that she may very well meet in the finals, should she make it that far.

2 of those names in particular. Ethan Rivers, who is a team mate of her own mentor and the one she remembers him remarking he wanted her to face in the finals and Alessia Capello, who she had addressed previously and who she knows wishes to face off against Ada Pierce. That doesn't bother her - if those 2 wish to do battle, then she isn't going to stand between them, for their issues do not involve her. Though what DOES involve her, is the Ice Crown tournament and the fact that Alessia is attempting to make it out as if her winning is a fait accompli. That everybody else, including Kelsey, is just there to be fed to her.

"Don't count me out."

Kelsey whispers this to herself, as she looks at the framed picture that Maddy had given her, raised above her head as she lays on her bed. That has been her motto. That very statement has been what has driven her ever since it was announced that she would be competiting in the tournament. Ever since she would be stepping out of the shadows and into the lignt when it comes to wrestling. It fuels her desire. Her flame.

For she has been counted out before - she has seen and heard people who see her as nothing more than a name. A face, there to have fun but no threat when it comes to winning. Both when she was at gymnastic events and when it comes to the Ice Crown. Both competitors and fans alike. Each and every time they counted her out, she remembered. She kept those words in the back of her mind when she stepped up. When she went out there and competed.

"I'll prove you wrong. No matter what it takes."

That was her mindset going into those competitions, just as it her mindset going into Night Two. Just as she stated whilst in the park, she knows that she isn't the biggest, that she isn't the strongest or the fastest in the ring. What she DOES have, is an undying spirit. The heart of a warrior and the ability to withstand whatever people may wish to throw at her and remain standing. Remain there, waiting for them to give her more punishment. To her, it doesn't matter how much they beat her. It doesn't matter how much agony and pain rushes through her body. As long as she can still stand. As long as she can still breathe, she will fight. She will give them everything she can, just as she always has. Just as she always will.

"This is where it all began. This was the day I began taking the steps that have led me to this point ---"

Her eyes remaining fixated on the picture, she feels her eyes beginning to glaze over as she thinks back to that day. To when she set foot inside of the Clinic and truly experienced what it meant to be a professional wrestler. When she truly began to understand what it meant to take that next step, as it is so called. She had been training for 2 years previous, but compared to what she went through at the training camp - that was child's play.

It taught her the fundamentals and set her foundation, yes, but THIS was where she was truly tested. This was where she begun to harness the undying spirit referenced when talking about her. Day after day, she would take herself to a level she had never thought was possible, no matter how much her body screamed in agony. No matter how loud the little voice within her head screamed at her to take a breather, she wouldn't. She couldn't.

For she knew that she needed to put all her effort into this. She needed to learn how to continue persevering through those barriers. Those screams and show that she was ready. That she was built for this. She knew that all the pain that she was going through. All the intense sessions Alyce, Ricky and Emily were crafting for her were done so that she could discover the passion. The fire and harness it. Contain it within herself so that she can call upon it and command it.

"It is then, that I discovered who I truly am. It is then, that I understood the sort of fighter. The sort of person that I would need to be, if I am to thrive within this world. If I am to become the star that illuminates the sky and truly fly."

Reaching across, she gently places the picture on her bedside table, her eyes remaining fixated on it as a soft sigh floats into the air. She wouldn't change anything about the path that she has taken to this point, even if she had the time all over again. It was what molded her into who she is. It is what created the bubbly yet fierce competitor that stood in that ring against Brandon, just as she will against either Ada or Shawn, and then even potentially against one of Ethan, Alessia, Terry or Edda.

Just the way she wishes for it to be. It is there, that set the wheels in motion for her to even catch the eye of the General Manager of First Class, Solace Tatum. A statement that caused a smile to cross her face when she heard it whilst watching her bout with Brandon back during film review and causes another smile to appear at this very moment. Her focus is on the tournament first and foremost, but it makes her feel warm and fuzzy inside that she has managed to capture eyes and have people paying attention to her.

To what she is doing inside of the ring, even this early into her career. A lot of people don't get this opportunity. This chance that she has, which is why she promised that she wasn't gonna let it pass her by. Why she wouldn't simply see it as a way to dip her toes into the water, but would approach it as if it is the last opportunity she will ever get. Just as Scotty had told her to, even if she is also making sure to have fun and enjoy it for what it is.

"I may never get another moment like this - I may never find myself in this position again, so I cannot let it go to waste. I will not let it slip through my fingers. I will not fail, because I cannot fail. I cannot afford to watch this fade away before my eyes."

Her words a pep talk to herself, she sits up, pressing her back gently against her pillow and the wall as she thinks about everything. About just how she plans on approaching her possible match with Ada. A match that has been referred to as 'both looking into a mirror' and the match that she had remarked a few days ago was the one she wishes to occur. That is why Bianca asked Kristy to fly in and help out - who better to help plan for a karate specialist than somebody who is renowned for her own karate skills and is a top karateka in her own right?

Kelsey isn't afraid to admit that Kristy has kicked her ass and left her laying on more than one occasion, but with each session. Each strike and kick, she understood just what makes Ada so dangerous in the ring. She was able to experience just what might be coming her way if they do end up facing off. She realises that nothing short of her absolute best. Nothing short of everything she has and then some is gonna be enough to defeat Ada. To survive her onslaughts, which is exactly what Kelsey intends on giving her. Just as she knows Ada will be giving her everything that she has. The same applies for Shawn Wylde, if he is the one who she must face.

"Nothing else matters but the match that lies ahead. Regardless of who it may be that I face. Ada or Shawn, because I plan on continuing to fly. Continuing to sparkle and shine bright, no matter what happens. The two of you are what matters most to me right now --- everything else, I will deal with when I arrive at the time to."

"You two are both great in your own ways. It's just as I said the last time I spoke about you. I know you can take me to my limits. I know what you two offer in the ring and how you fight for what you believe in, just as I do. That is what ties us together. It is why we find ourselves walking along this path, preparing to face off, holding the hopes of becoming the Ice Crown winner within our hearts. Knowing that the other is a frontier we must cross if we are to hold it within our hands."

Her breathing relaxing, her eyes begin to burn with desire. With a focused energy, just as they do whenever she steps into the ring. She wants them to know that she doesn't plan on giving either of them a free passage to the finals. Just as they won't be intending on giving her a free passage there. She wants them to know that they cannot count her out. That they cannot make the same mistakes that Alessia is making when it comes to her. That they cannot put too much weight into what Erick Elliott remarked about her, because if they do, then they will find out that it is the worst mistake they could have ever made.

"I wouldn't have it any other way ---."

Exhaling, she glances up at the light on her ceiling. Staring directly into it as it shines against her eyes.

"Tomorrow, we dance with fate --- tomorrow is where it all falls into place and we see just who can truly call the crown theirs. Do your worst and I'll do mine. This is what I have been built for. This is where I take my next step into this world."

Lowering her head, Kelsey leans back, letting it all truly sink in. Tomorrow, the world gets to see where she stands. Tomorrow, she intends on running the gauntlet and walking out as the holder of the Ice Crown, no matter what it will take. It is what she promised them she would do.
---

Alone. Sitting in the middle of the very same ring that she will be competing in tomorrow night and looking out at the empty seats and wearing the specially made jacket Maddy gave her as well as a baby blue t-shirt and jeans, Kelsey looks down the ramp. Imagining herself making her way down it, with the sounds of the fans filling the arena. Her heart pounding and knots forming inside of her stomach as she glances out at the stands. Her eyes begin to water as she turns her head to look at the presently empty stands.

"This has all been a dream to me --- this is where I know I am supposed to be. This is where I feel most at home --- but it wasn't always this way."

Her voice quivering, she thinks back to her time in high school, where she had felt like she would never find her calling. Where she had allowed people's words cut her deep. Where she had felt as if she was simply useless, no matter how good a student she was. To her, gymnastics and wrestling were escapes from that. Places she could go if she just wanted to isolate herself and block out everything.

"I wasn't always supposed to be here. I wasn't always meant to have this opportunity. I was just another young girl. Another child who felt like she would never truly find her place. Somebody who let the words of others get to her and cause her to question just who she was. Ask herself if it was worth fighting any more? If it was worth trying, when all it would result in was failure?"

"Every night, I would go home and watch wrestling in an attempt to escape it all. Find a world in which I could become the person I knew I could be. The person who would eventually find herself playing the role of a hero. An inspiration to children and women everywhere, just like those who were on the screen in front of my eyes. Deep down, I wanted to be just like them. I imagined that one day, I would stand in the ring and say that I did it. That I had made it."

A tear beginning to run down her cheek, she smiles. Looking around her before staring back down the ramp.

"That I had reached the pinnacle. That is why I am here. For even though now I can say that I have made it. That the child that dreamt is now living out her reality, I am still that young girl back home in Bundoora, lying on her bed and looking up. Wishing that she could just float away and reside in a world where she was blissful. Where she could truly find peace and happiness. Where she could escape from a world that was telling her what she couldn't be."

"A world that was tearing her apart and breaking her from within. Yet here I stand and in just one day's time, I have the opportunity to show just what I can do. Show that it doesn't matter what people say. That it doesn't matter what they might tell you when you're growing up, because they don't define you. They aren't the ones who are walking in your shoes, living the life that you are. They aren't the ones who hold hopes and dreams within their hands."

Passion oozes from each word that she speaks, as a fired up expression appears across her face. You can see just how much this subject matter means to her. How much she wishes to inspire those who may be in the same position that she was back when she was in her formulative years and even her early teens. Those who are still finding their way within this world.

"You are. You are the ones who can become whatever it is you desire. Whatever it is you wish to become, as long as you believe in yourself. As long as you give it everything you have and make sure that the passion flows within your body. Just look at me. Look at how far I have come from the girl who was afraid. The girl who was scared, because she let them get to her. "

"She allowed them to plant seeds of doubt inside of her head, until I said no more. Until I realised that as long as I had faith in myself. As long as I still had the flame within me, that I COULD become what I desired. That I COULD be the woman that I wanted to be, and tomorrow, you will all see what happens when somebody truly believes that they can overcome anything."

"What happens when you stop allowing words get to you and set about proving each and every one of them wrong. When you stop being afraid and start standing up to those who thought they could cut you down. Those who thought they could look past you and onto those they deemed as more important. They will learn that all they did by trying to tell you what you cannot be, is drive you into showing them what you CAN be. What you ARE becoming."

Her words echoing throughout the arena, she looks around at the stands once more. Picturing them as being full of people who are hanging onto every single one of her words. Whether they be children or adults. Yet there is a single person sitting in the stands, on the 3rd level and with a hood over their head. Staring down at her and listening intently as they stand, and unbeknownest to her, begin to make their way down the stairs.

"If nobody believes in you. If there is nowhere you feel you can turn, just know that I believe in you. That even if we do not know one another, I know that you can shine. I know that you can become a butterfly that rises from its caccoon just as I did. Know that I will always believe in you. That I will ALWAYS fight for you, each and every time I step into this ring."

"This isn't just my journey. This isn't just my road, it is all of our roads. We are all journeying this road together, as we head towards the Ice Crown. As we show the world. As we show those who tried to break us that we are unbreakable. That we are unkillable. That there is nothing that they can do to stop us when we all stand together. When we unify as one."

Standing, Kelsey beams as she extends her arms out, as if she is ready to embrace the world. As if she is offering herself as the vessal of their hopes. Their dreams. Their aspirations. For that is what she desires. That is what she has sworn to do. That is the badge she wishes to wear. The one of those who wish to believe in themselves and the ones who nobody else believes in.

"This isn't just a dream. This isn't just a wishful thought any more. I am no longer scared of what might happen if I fail. I am unafraid of the scars they may leave, because they make me stronger. They make me want more and to show them that no matter what they throw at me. No matter how many times they may take me down. No matter how much they make me bleed, I will still rise. I will always come back for more. That it won't be enough to break me or the fire that resides within me. For I fight for you. The dreamers. The outcasts. The ones who they thought they could cast aside."

"This glory will be for all of us. Just as it will be for those who helped me get to the position I find myself in right now. Those who paved the way so that I can shine. So, Ada, Shawn, Edda, Alessia, Ethan and Terry, I want you to know that even though I respect you. Even though I know what you are all capable of in this ring. As much as I know you all have more prestige. More legacy than I do, that I am not going to back down."

"I am not gonna stand aside for you, but what I WILL do is give you a fight. A battle. A war and I will not relent, because this isn't just about me. This isn't just about the Ice Crown for me. It is about being an example for those who wish to dream. For those who feel like all hope is lost. Who feel as if the world is willing to throw them away, for we stand as one."

"On our own, we may appear weak but together, we are a force beyond anything you have ever seen before. This is about me holding their hopes in my hands and showing them that when you believe in yourself. When you have faith that what you are doing is the right course for you, then you can achieve anything you desire. That is why I am here."

"That is why I am going to look you in the eye tomorrow in this ring and show you that no matter if you think I am some 130 pound diva. Or just a speedbump standing in the way of a destined match up, or even if you see me as just another person, I will take whatever you may throw at me and keep rising. Keep standing here until you undstand that I am more than just a face. That I am not just a name. And if you believe you can count us out. If you believe you can overlook me. Overlook us, then you are about to be in for a surprise that you may not like."

Walking over to the turnbuckles on the bottom right hand side corner, she sits atop the top turnbuckle, looking out to the stands, then down the ramp. Hoping that everybody hears the battle cry. The call to unity she wishes to state. It is then that the hooded figure takes a seat in the front row of the stands, watching her.

"For no more can you ignore us. No more are we gonna allow you to tell us what we cannot do. We are taking charge of our own destinies. I am stepping up and showing you what I CAN be. What I AM. What WE are and there is not a single person who is going to stand in my way. I am Kelsey Frost, the woman who plans on ensuring that no matter what it takes. No matter how far I have to go. No matter how far I have to push my body, I WILL walk out as the Ice Queen. The one who proved that no matter how strong you are. No matter how fast you are. No matter how tall you are, it does not compare to the heart. The passion. The flame that resides within me. That resides within US."

Pointing out to the crowd, she jumps down, landing back in the ring as the sound of clapping can be heard and the figure pulls back their hood, revealing that it is Scotty. He had come to see her before she competes tomorrow. Smiling, she notices him and smiles.

"Do your worst and I'll do mine. Tomorrow, you will find out just how much desire truly resides within us all. Within me Just how far I am willing to go, in order to take the crown. I only hope that you can say the same."

Rolling out of the ring, she walks over to Scotty, who smiles. Proud of how far his protege has come and how she has never lost sight of what truly drives her.

"Did I do well? What did you think?"

He nods.

"You did great. I can feel how much this means to you - I can sense that passion that Alyce told me you had. I know you'll give it you all, which is all I can ask."

She smiles, sitting atop the guardrail.

"I just wanna be their hero. I want to be the girl they look up to, just as Alyce was for me. I want them to see just what it means to shine."

"Just make sure that you never lose sight of who you are, because we all know the famous saying about heroes. As long as you stay true to the person you are. The woman who made it here, you can do anything you desire. It may not be easy, but it is the only way you can truly become the butterfly you were destined to be.'

"I know. I plan on just being Kelsey. Being the woman I have always been. No matter what."

"I know you will."

He then ponders his next statement. Remembering all that Bianca told him about her training and her meeting with Maddy in the time he was back home in Australia. When he was enjoying the break period and recouperating his own injuries.

"So, I heard you trained with Kristy?"

She nods joyfully.

"Yeah! It was awesome. She kicked my ass a few times, but I learnt a lot from her. Especially when it came to using my kicks to my advantage."

Laughing, Scott knows all about the lethal kicks Kristy has at her disposal. Both by witnessing them and even taking a few of them himself. He also knows that she is the perfect sparring partner for Kelsey, considering the fact Ada Pierce is one of her possible opponents.

"Haha, yeah. Those kicks of hers are deadly. She's a master of them, so I'm sure she would have shown you a few you can add to your disposal. Especially against an opponent like Ada."

"She did!"

"Anyway, we should probably get back home. Dinner's probably ready and you need to rest up for tomorrow. This is your chance to show all of us just why we have faith in you. Prove just why you belong here."

Turning her body, Kelsey stands up, next to Scotty before laughing softly. She was already intending on doing that.

"Don't worry, I will. I promise."

The two then walk off, knowing that no matter what happens. Win or lose, Kelsey will have accomplished more than ANYONE expected her to. Though as she stated during her rally call and all along this road, she plans on winning. She intends to become the Ice Queen and to show just why you cannot count her out. Why she is truly an unbreakable spirit between those ropes. Tomorrow is when we find out just what she is capable of. Just what she is willing to do, in order to finish the job. To fulfil her promise.