Solace Tatum
Full Member
First Class General Manager
"Don't Take It Personal..."
Posts: 117
|
Post by Solace Tatum on Dec 11, 2021 14:38:22 GMT
 RP RULES:
3 Roleplay MAX, 5K Word Limit per RP.
(5001 words = Disqualification)
FIRST NIGHT (December 26th, 2021)
Soft Deadline: 11:59 PM EST, December 19th, 2021.
-Must RP or will only get 1 RP Total
-Must be cold open (No response to opponent's First RP)
-Failure to post Cold Open/RP before Soft Deadline results in 1 RP max.
Hard Deadline: 11:59 PM EST, December 25th, 2021.
-If you RPed a cold open before soft deadline, you can now post a 2nd and 3rd at any time before hard deadline.
-Remember, if you go over 1 word, your RP will be discounted.
|
|
|
|
Post by Scotty 'Silver Bullet' Adams on Dec 15, 2021 13:06:35 GMT
"Hey Kelsey"
Kelsey opens her eyes, to see Scotty - the man responsible for bringing her over to England and into the foray of the IIW, standing next to her bed within the studio behind his own place.
"Yeah?"
Slightly sitting up, she looks at him, despite her eyes still being blurry. She has just woken up. He takes a step back, before looking around the room he had spent most of the last month decorating in anticipation of her arrival.
"You ready?"
"For?"
Looking at her, Scott seems to remember that he hadn't told her about what he had planned for her. A special plan, seeing as she flew in yesterday, after 2 months within his training camp.
"You'll see. Bianca and I have something for you."
He makes his way over to the doorway, allowing a drowsy Kelsey to softly push the blanket off herself and sit up. She swings her feet off the side of the bed before yawning and glancing around the room.
"Come in whenever you're ready."
He walks off, heading in the direction of the front door to the studio and back towards the main house, leaving Kelsey there to just let everything sink in. Allow herself to regain her composure and for the nerves bustling inside of her to settle.
"Is --- is this real?"
She pinches herself softly, before realising that it is indeed, all real. That she isn't dreaming.
"I'm really here --- I really made it."
Yawning, she stands up, heading toward the wardrobe that is in the top right hand corner of the room, opening it and pulling out a T-shirt and some jeans.
"Stay calm, Kelsey. This is just the start --- this is what you have been working towards."
Turning, she begins to make her way into the main portion of the studio, surprised by how expansive it is, now that she is seeing it in person. She doesn't remember it looking like this in the videos she had seen of Scotty when he was in this studio. Another right turn later, and she is standing in front of the shower room.
"Just remember, you earnt this. This is where you deserve to be."
She then heads into the room, preparing to freshen up for the day.
Meanwhile, inside of the house, Scotty and Bianca are sitting at the kitchen table. A silver picture frame atop the mahogany table between them. One that has Kelsey's 'Adams wrestling clinic' graduation certificate inside of it.
"Did you tell her?
He shakes his head. He hadn't told her about the plans yet.
"No, not yet. I just told her to come in when she was ready."
"Good."
Bianca smiles, as she turns her attention back to the computer, which is currently on Zoom. Alyce and Emily are on the other end, both sitting inside their office at the Wrestling Clinic's HQ in Eltham.
"You girls ready?"
"Yeah."
"Ready when you are."
They then give the thumbs up gesture, as Scott leans across to check up on them.
"How's it going over there?"
"Great. We're just sorting things out for the Christmas drive, as well as the MWL special. You sent your promo, right?"
"Yeah. We sent it on Monday. It's really cute."
The 4 laugh, as Bianca feels herself blushing at her own words.
Back at the studio, Kelsey has finished with her shower and closes the door behind her as she makes her way toward the back entrance of the main residence. A smile across her face.
"I just want to do them proud. Mum, Dad, Ricky, Emily, Alyce, Scott, Bianca. Everybody. They've put their faith in me, and now, it's time to repay them. To show them that I am ready to blossom. That I am ready to make my mark upon the world."
"It's the least I can do."
Opening the wire door, she takes a step into the hallway, noticing Chili, who is carrying a bottle of lemonade heading back towards her own room, getting back to reading. Smiling at her, Kelsey recieves a nod and a smile in return before continuing to make her way down the hall.
"They're in the kitchen."
Kelsey turns her head, noticing Chili motioning towards a door about two rooms and to the right before she turns back once more.
"Thanks."
She then continues to walk, although occasionally allows herself some time to look at the pictures adorning the walls.
Back in the kitchen, Bianca, Scotty, Alyce and Emily are still talking, awaiting Kelsey's arrival to the celebration. By the way they are speaking, it appears as if they are reflecting on the earlier moments on their careers.
"I remember that. It was when you speared Hayden through the barricade, right? Or is that another moment?"
Scott laughs.
"Yeah, it was that one. Honestly, even today I cringe when thinking about it."
Alyce nods in understanding.
"Oh, trust me. I cringe at A LOT of my older matches. Some of the things I did just make you think 'why?'. I don't regret it though. Sometimes, you gotta do what you gotta do."
"Like when you threw Larni off the top of the cage during Terrordome?"
Alyce simply shakes her head, as Bianca leans in. Curious to know how Alyce is gonna answer. The buxom brunette simply lets out a sigh.
"Yeah."
She flashes a grin, as Scott looks up. Noticing that Kelsey is now at the doorway to the kitchen.
"She's here."
He then motions to a chair at the top of the table, which Kelsey makes her way towards before Bianca slowly turns the computer so that it is facing her. As soon as she sees Alyce and Emily, she cannot help but beam.
"Hey guys!"
The 2 wave, smiles across their own faces.
"Hey Kels! I see you made it there okay."
"I did. It's been awesome so far. The studio is bigger than I thought it would be too, and really cozy."
"I'm glad to hear that. Told you Scotty and Bianca would take care of you."
Kelsey laughs, remembering the talk they had before she flew out, about how she had been nervous about the trip, having never really left the state of Victoria prior to this.
"Yeah. They're great honestly."
"They really are."
It is then that Scotty clears his throat, in an attempt to steer the direction of the discourse into the one that they had mapped out. After all, there IS a reason they arranged for this party. Noticing this, Bianca lets out a soft laugh.
"Oh right. Almost forgot."
Scott nods, as Kelsey eagerly looks at them.
"Yep. Anyway, the reason why I asked you to come in here Kelsey is that we wanna celebrate your graduation from the Adams wrestling clinic. Normally, we would do this during the MWL christmas special, but --- well, we decided that for you, and because you're entering the Ice Crown tournament, we would do it here."
The 4 give Kelsey a round of applause, as she feels her smile stretching beyond the point she had thought was previously imaginable, such is the emotion flowing through her presently.
"You deserve this, Kelsey. You have been the best student I've ever worked with. Your ability to adapt and adjust to the situation that surrounds you is second to none. I don't think I've ever seen anyone take to the sport like you have."
"I agree 100%. There is NOT a single talent that I can remember taking to this in the manner you have. There's still things to work on, but for the most part - you look like a natural already. Everything else will come in time. Isn't that right, Scott?"
Hearing the teasing tone in which the question was asked, Scott simply laughs.
"Yeah. Don't worry - you've got most of the stuff you need down already. The rest will come as you become accustomed to the ring and obtain a feel for how your opponents operate in the ring."
Her face starting to flush, Kelsey feels as if she wants to scream in joy. This is hitting her hard, and to her - it's the best thing she could have heard.
"Thanks guys! I just wanna make sure that I can do you proud. That each and every time I step into the ring, I make sure to put my best foot forward."
"That I show the world just what I am capable of. That I prove you all right, and prove to myself that I DO belong in this industry. That I can be everything that I want to be."
The 4 simply smile in response. They are already proud of her, for even making it to this point. Considering how hard they had pushed her during the camp.
"I have no doubt that you will. I already know you're gonna kick ass in the Ice crown Tournament. You have it in you to go as far as you desire in it.
"I hope so. There's some really good talent in this tournament."
"You're one of them, Kelsey. You got this, girl.
She gives Kelsey a warm smile, showing that she has faith in her trainee. One that is matched by Alyce.
"As they said, you've got this. There might be a lot of talent, and even some that Scotty has stepped into the ring against **she gently jabs her elbow into his arm** But you're just as much a shot of winning as anybody else."
Scott rubs his arm, before thinking about Kelsey's first round opponent, and one of the men who he has faced in the past.
"Including your first round opponent, Brandon Hendrix. But don't worry about that - this isn't about MY personal history with him. It's not us stepping into the ring. This is about you and him, and to him - you are an enigma. He doesn't know a single thing about you, and you can use that to your benefit."
Curiously looking at Scott, Kelsey wraps her head around what he is telling her.
"How? I don't know anything about him either, so wouldn't it cancel out?"
Scott slightly smirks, pointing to himself.
"I do. And I'm more than happy to help give you some tips and tricks for your match up. See, that's one of the things we were talking about - knowing your enemy and what THEY can bring to the table is just as, if not more, important than simply knowing yourself."
"Babe, are you quoting art of war?"
Laughing, Scott shoots her a sly look.
"Perhaps, but it's true."
Alyce decides to interject herself into the conversation.
"He's right. I know that whenever I've faced an opponent who I've battled in the past, I've ALWAYS gone back and watched those matches. Allows me to see what worked then and what didn't, then prepare my gameplan accordingly."
"She does. As do I. I still remember the study sessions we'd have in the library back when we were both just starting out in this realm."
Absorbing all this, Kelsey feels her brain at least slightly expanding with this new knowledge. It was something they had briefly touched on during the camp, but she hadn't seen it in a practical scale like this.
"Oh, so that's what you were doing there?"
Bianca laughs, remembering to when Scott would say he was visiting the library after school back when they had first met. He simply nods in response.
"Yeah."
They then remember the certificate that is still on the table.
"Guys --- did you forget to give Kelsey that?"
Pointing to it, Emily flashes a smile as Kelsey looks at it, beaming.
"Oh right. There is your certificate of graduation, Kelsey. Trust me, you SHOULD be proud of yourself. You did extremely well and I KNOW you'll do well in this realm."
"You have us here for you, and if you need anything - let me know and I'll see what I can do. I want to make sure you're in the best position you can be to shine. Especially within the Ice Crown Tournament."
Kelsey takes the certifcate as she smiles.
"Thank you so much. I mean that. I'll do my best and make sure the world can see me shine."
The 4 smile at her.
"That's all we ask."
---
"I can't wait for this. I can't wait to show the world what I can do in the ring. I can't wait to show EVERYONE why I am here and ready to do whatever it will take in order to make sure that you never forget my name. So that people can see that this is where I belong."
"This is what I NEED. This is my best way of proving myself and I'm not gonna let it slip through my fingers. I'm not just gonna sit back whilst others rise, and settle for just being here."
Kelsey shakes her head. It's evident that she is sitting in the bleachers at a local YMCA, looking down at the basketball courts below.
"That would be doing myself a disservice. Why enter something like this if I'm not gonna put my best foot forward? If I'm not gonna go into that ring with the intention of winning? That would be me letting everyone who has faith in me. Everybody who believes in me down, and I promised them. I promised myself that I would NEVER do that. That I would go out there and ensure that I put my best foot forward, each and every match."
"A promise that I plan to live by, starting when I step into the ring against Brandon Hendrix. A man who I don't know anything about, but the same applies for him, too. He doesn't know anything about me. About what I can do between those ropes and about what fuels me. What motivates me. What makes me wish to prove to the world why I am here."
Kelsey flashes a smile, as she gets comfortable within her seat.
"It's why I have entered the Ice Crown tournament, and why I intend on going out there and putting on the best show that I can, each and every match. See, Brandon, I may not know anything about you - but I know you're talented. I know you're gifted in the ring. You wouldn't be here if you weren't. You wouldn't be entering this tournament if you didn't have skills in the ring. Believe me, I'm not taking you lightly at all. I'd be foolish to do so."
"However, that doesn't mean that I'm going to let you intimidate me. Or that I'm going to idlely stand by and let you walk on by me. Because I'm not, at all. Just as I don't expect for you to allow me to walk by you. That would be foolish. That would be naive and I can promise you, I wouldn't want you to, either."
She softly laughs.
"See, Brandon. I know that this is gonna be a challenge. I know that I'm gonna have to bring EVERYTHING that I have inside of me to this match, and I wouldn't have it any other way. It's the only way that I can prove myself. It's the ONLY way that I can show that you can't look past me. That you can't just see me as using this to have some fun, because I'm driven. I'm focused on walking out with the Ice Crown and showing just why I am the one who shall shine brightest. Even if that means I have to get by you first."
"I respect you. I wish for nothing but the best for you in the future, but sadly for you, come our round 1 match, that will not include victory over me. It will not be you progressing to the next stage and continuing your journey towards the holy grail. Towards the Ice Crown. At least, not at MY expense. I'm sure that you think the same way when it comes to me, and you should."
"If that is what will bring out your best, then I want you to think that way. Because just like it was for me when I was in camp training for this. Taking myself to limits that not even I knew I had, it was all so that when I came here. When I take my first steps out into this world, that I am prepared. That I know that only my best will do. Anything else, would be just like failing."
Exhaling, she slides forward.
"So, do your worst, and I'll do mine, Brandon. Because when our match is said and done, you WILL be able to feel my heart. My passion for this --- for making sure the world knows just who Kelsey Frost is."
"And why this moment isn't about to swallow me whole."
End.
|
|
|
|
Post by Brandon Hendrix on Dec 19, 2021 18:58:55 GMT
Off Camera ■
It's a sunny day in San Antonio, Texas, and it's the perfect day for a walk it seems as Brandon Hendrix and his girlfriend Carina walking down a dirt path, hand and hand as Brandon's phone rings in his pocket. He pulls his phone out of his pocket and sees its from his agent, Adam. He slides the green phone over to answer the call and places the phone on speaker.
"Adam! How are ya?"
"I'm doing good Brandon. Got a minute?"
"For you? Always."
"So I was just got off the phone with a representative asking about you come in and take part of a tournament. No word on what the winner gets yet but it sounds like a good opportunity for you."
"A tournament, huh? I can handle that. Which company?"
"Let me check…. IIW."
Brandon hears "IIW" and he stops.
"IIW? As in Intense International Wrestling?"
"Yes, that's the one."
"I'll um… I'll get back to you on that one."
"Alright Brandon. Let me know as soon as possible."
Brandon hangs up the phone and places it back in his pocket as Carina looks at Brandon in confusion.
"Hey what was that about? You seemed kinda shook up."
"It's um… I used to work at this place. How I was there was different than how I am now. There, I let my emotions get the best of me and I got fired."
"You get fired? Actually, I was surprised by that. You and emotions that's a given darling. You're just a diva."
Carnia snickers as Brandon looks at her. He mimics her laugh before going serious face again, getting another laugh from Carina.
"Thanks a lot… cunt."
Carina snickers again before shaking her head.
"I'm sorry darling. But you got fired, so what?"
"Because you know how I am when I'm not on camera. I try to be nice to everyone I meet. I was a dick to the roster off camera. I felt so bad when I looked back and realized that. I shouldn't be welcomed back at all."
"Here, let's take a seat and think of this."
Carina points at a near by fallen tree to then both she and Brandon sit down on. She places her arm around him.
"I think what is best to do here is go and earn forgiveness. I know you can do it, so you need to believe you can do it."
Brandon looks at her and a small smile grows on his face. He places his hand on her leg.
"You're right. I'll give it a shot."
"That's good darling. Come on. Let's continue this walk."
"First thing first: who made the song "Radioactive"?"
"I don't know, Imagine Dragon?"
"Imagine Dragin DEEZ NUTZ!"
Brandon pops off the tree and punches the air while Carina shakes her head, chuckling a bit before she gets up and both walk off.
Recorded ●
Brandon faced off against the company's most underrated star, and lost. He claims that loss sent him down a mental spiral that almost ended his career in that company, before eventually leaving the company a day later. Brandon is sat on his couch, staring at the television watching the match play out.
"And The Brandon Hendrix was pinned once again. Another big loss for Mr. Hendrix tonight."
Brandon stares at the television in disbelief, reaching to his side on the couch and grabs the remote control, pushing the power button and turning the television off and letting the remote drop from his hand back to the couch.
"….. not again."
San Antonio, Texas, the infamous home of Brandon Hendrix. We find ourselves at an farmhouse that sits at a high rise directly in the outskirts of Dallas. The camera pans around to a farmhouse full of trophies and memorabilia. For a cursed child who came from nothing, the young man has already earned riches and prizes that can set him for a lavish lifestyle for the rest of his tenure in this world. Yet it’s always been apparent, it’s not the paycheck that keeps Brandon going. A lone black chair sat in front of his large plastered glass windows is where we find “The Don”. A glass of Jameson whiskey in his right hand, he looks over his city. He begins speaking to the camera however does not break his glaze out the window.
"Do you ever question what is it that keeps you going? Why do you wake up each and every morning, put on your clothes and go to your job and continue to do exactly what you did the day before? For months now I’ve found myself in a near, comatose state, questioning why do I continue to step in that ring. I used to believe I did it for the money. One year in wrestling and movies and I was set for life. Then I believed it was the drive to be the very best in the world. I’m a movie star, former Champion. I have a smoking hot girlfriend and I'm slowly becoming a household name in wrestling. Yet I’m still here, waking up every single morning, putting those boots on and going to work. Why? I believed maybe..... I wanted to make this company a better place. I wanted to make it stronger, make the other competitors better than they are now. Then it hit me.... to do that, I truly have to win a World Championship."
Brandon raises the glass, taking a quick drink, finishing the glass entirely. He pulls himself to his feet, a hulking mass of a man. He’s prided himself for the year on dominating his opponents not just physically but mentally as well. He begins walking across the large open room towards an open bottle that he has, pouring himself another glass.
"When I got the phone call from IIW to take part of their IceCrown Tournament, I was surprised, I guess you can say because of the way I departed. But, I guess the saying is true: "everyone deserves a second chance". I got mine, and I cannot waste it. Hell, I don't know how long I'm going to be here. I could be tossed to the side and forgotten about again, or I could be welcomed back to the IIW roster. Then, I could go for the one World Championship that has the absolute prestige and legacy that I know is what I want to carry. But, to avoid myself getting that far, I have to focus on this tournament, and my first opponent. Kelsey Frost."
Brandon, now walking down a hallway, looks at one of several pictures placed in a glass trophy case. One of which being the match between himself and Jason Ryan, the match that sent Brandon to his near grave. The two have a storied history and are one of the most violent relationships in wrestling history. He continues his speech, the drink in his hand, his eyes fixed on the framed photo.
"Unfortunately I don't know you miss, and that's my fault for not being able to do the research to prepare myself on who you are. But because of my lack of knowledge of you, do not take that as laziness for not finding out, nor take it as I'm not taking you seriously enough. I went through a period of time of not taking a soul seriously, and it led to my losses I've suffered in my wrestling career. But, that does not change the fact that I need to beat you in the first round as this tournament I'm proclaiming it as "Brandon Hendrix's IIW Redemption Story". You see Kelsey, I left this company after being fired for arguing with officials, management, rosters about a loss I suffered to TJ Alexander, and no it wasn't their fault, it was mine for not taking him as a threat and slipping on the opportunity. But I blamed everyone anyway because it was the easiest option I had. I wasn't going to accept failure on my own behalf. I would have sat there, raised my eyebrow up, flipped a lick of my tongue, asked if you smelled what I was cooking and blamed you all for what happened to me. I went off to Project Honor where I remained for a while and it humbled me. I was embarrassed and that was what flicked the switch in my head to change. Because of that change, I saw a change in opportunity. I was placed with main eventers constantly, and it made me a better wrestler being around them, and a better person having to learn to stop blaming others. Kelsey Frost, I won't let people's memories be a bad one of Brandon Hendrix. I limited the hell out of myself back then, and now, Brandon Hendrix is off the leash to show who exactly I am."
Quick clips suddenly flash across the screen of Brandon Hendrix in recent his year inflicting pain upon and dominating the wrestling landscape. Arguably one of the most physically dominant stars of his time. We suddenly in a quick flash return to the skyline where Brandon sits upon his black chair. This time he is face to face with the camera. His eyes blood shot, the glass once again empty. He looks deep into the camera with a cold glaze.
"I'm going to defeat you Kelsey. I'm going to run through you as well in order to complete the destiny handed down to me from a Hall Of Fame wrestler. I'm going to kick you, cover you, and listen to the referee count that one...two….three. I’ve been watching you for sometime now. You are an enigma. Someone they say that is not to be trifled with. I am a man who’s not to be trifled with. You are a femal3, hiding behind cheap theatrics and bullshit you try to bring to this match."
Brandon Hendrix stares deeply into his glass. He holds it tightly, strangely a Bad Influence logo can be seen at the bottom of the clear glass. A memory of where Hendrix has called his own over the past eight months.
"This I truly believe is destiny. Sadly, this will not be a beautiful clash of the titans. I'm showing up at the IceCrown Tournament first round, I'm changing the guard, and I'm moving on. If you push me to the limit and can bring out a great showing, then I'll know that I'm where I want to be. In a company of people that is going to push me to be the man that I want to be. To be the wrestler I want to be. To be a future World Champion. If you want an introduction to me, then here you go. Kelsey Frost, allow me to reintroduce myself: I'm The Based God, The Don, The Prodigal Son, The Messiah, I am Brandon Fucking Hendrix."
"I like to offer you my condolences… I'm sorry for using you on my way to the big one."
He takes a rest back into the chair. He looks directly out into the world, the very same streets he at one time found himself sleeping on. What a twisted tail that the city that once tortured him, he now lies above in its blue skies. Brandon's message sent to Kelsey has become an almost personal affair for one “Based God”. |
|
|
|
Post by Scotty 'Silver Bullet' Adams on Dec 23, 2021 14:24:22 GMT
Kelsey sits within her studio, a tripod camera set up in front of her, as she sits atop a green lawn chair. She has actually managed to do her makeup for once instead of last time we saw her, when she hadn't, and has her hair tied into a ponytail with a white scrunchie. Smiling, she looks into the camera.
"Hey guys. So nice to be able to talk to you again."
She vigorously waves, her smile one of joy. She is recording this for the IIW and the Ice crown tournament.
"So, what has been happening with me since the last time we talked? What has been going on in the life of little Kelsey Frost?"
"I'm glad you asked, because there has been quite a bit going on, even in such a short period. See, it's been a whirlwind last week or so for me, ever since my plane touched down and I arrived here in England. I'm not gonna lie to you, it has been a bit daunting."
She laughs.
"I've never flown on a plane before, yet alone left my home country and flown overseas, so this has been a completely new experience for me. Exciting but also nervy. I didn't know what I should have been expecting, but it has been great so far."
"Especially Scotty and Bianca. They have been EXTREMELY welcoming and helped me find my feet. Shown me around and allowed me to acclimatise to my new surroundings. Find my way around the city. All the good stuff."
"But I'm not here to just talk about that, don't worry. I have also been training. Preparing for the Ice Crown tournament and making sure that I follow through with my promise. That when the time comes and I step into the ring, that you WILL be seeing me at my best. You will be seeing me in full flight, leaving EVERYTHING that I have in that ring. Making sure that no matter WHAT happens, people know that I had given all that I habe inside of me to ensure that I come out victorious."
She exhales, continuing to stare into the camera.
"This tournament means the world to me. It is MY chance to step out and spread my wings. MY chance to prove that I belong. To show just what I have learnt whilst I was in the camp. To make sure that even if I fall. Even if I am not the one who walks out as the Ice Queen, that people understand that I am here to stay. That you SHOULD be familiarising yourself with me, because soon enough --- you will know exactly what I am capable of."
Thinking about the 'Ice Queen' moniker, she giggles.
"Plus, I'd be lying if I said 'Ice Queen' Kelsey Frost DOESN'T have a nice ring to it. After all, can you imagine that? Me --- Ice Queen? The queen who reigns over the tundra?"
She smiles, before playfully smacking herself, attempting to remain grounded.
"But I can't get too far ahead of myself. I can't afford to make any mistakes, otherwise I'll end up falling flat on my face and embarrassing myself. Especially against an opponent like Brandon Hendrix."
"Yes, I've learnt more about Brandon since the last time I talked to you. I know that he is extremely talented in the ring and I know that he has been doing this longer than I have. I know that he will be ready to pounce on any mistake I might make and use that to his advantage. I know that he is NOT the sort of person that I can simply look past. Nobody in this tournament is, and I'm not gonna make that mistake."
"As I said the last time I spoke to you, I respect you, Brandon. I know that you are capable in that ring. I know that you can come out and ensure that I realise just how different this is to the camp. How this is an ocean and I am just a little fish, swimming within it, just as you are. I know that we both want the same thing. That we both wish to make sure the world knows our name and this is our way of doing so."
Straightening her body, she leans forward slightly. Making sure that the camera can see the focus within her eyes.
"And come boxing day, the 2 of us will step into the ring and take our first leap in doing so. With only one of us being able to walk out with the win. One of us being able to continue our journey to taking home the crown."
"Continue making sure that it is our names that are up on the stage, no matter what it will take. No matter who might stand in our way - for me, that begins with getting through you. For you, I am the one you have to defeat. I am the one who stands in your way. And I promise you that I am NOT the person you want to be in your way. That I am not the person who you wanna be looking at, when there is glory on the line, because I have no intention of lying down for you."
"I have no plans on just being another name who sees this as a learning experience, then fades away with her tail between her legs. I'm not the sort of girl who takes it easy on anybody, with the expectation of just being happy to be there, and I don't think you want that from me either. I know it's not what I want from you."
She focuses her eyes, as she puts on a more serious look. Making sure to stare deep into the camera.
"Don't take it easy on me. Don't try to think that just because you're stronger than me, or bigger than me. Because if you do, then I'm sorry to say, but you're gonna be in for a rude awakening. One that will lead to you being left on the mat, wondering HOW did you lose? Why weren't you able to win?"
She then strokes her jaw.
"The answer will be simple - you looked past the wrong person. Don't make that mistake, Brandon."
She flashes a smile one final time, before turning the camera off and standing up, heading out of the studio and pulling her phone out of her pocket. Making a call to Larni, who had left a message on her phone.
"Hey Larni --- yeah, Scotty told me yesterday --- I'm gonna see him tomorrow afternoon --- Tell them I said hi --- yeah, I'm gonna be there on Zoom --- alright --- Cya."
Hanging up, she makes her way toward the side gate of the home.
---
Kelsey sits inside of the waiting room at KNI entertainment, waiting for her name to be called up. She had arranged to come here as part of an advertising campaign for Adams wrestling clinic. Well, Scotty had arranged it, she had simply agreed to do it. Although she doesn't see herself as a model, it gets her name out there. Looking around, she notices that there are a couple of other people here, but doesn't know who they are.
Receptionist- Kelsey Frost.
She looks up, before standing and making her way to the desk.
Receptionist- Mr. Forrest is waiting for you.
"Okay, thanks."
Receptionist- 2nd door on the left.
Kelsey smiles, walking around the reception table, making her way toward the office of Tom Forrest. A friend of Scotty's and the one in charge of the campaign. Reaching the specified door, she gently knocks.
Tom- Come in.
Opening the door, she smiles. Tom is seated at his desk and looks up, smiling back when he sees her.
Tom- Hey Kelsey, take a seat and we'll have everything sorted shortly.
Walking over to the seat on the opposite side of the table to Tom, looking around the room.
"So, what exactly will I be doing?"
Tom- Scotty didn't tell you? We're filming an advertisment for the wrestling clinic and as you are one of the more notable graduates, he insisted you be in it. Plus, ties into the Ice Crown tournament and getting your name out there.
"That sounds awesome. So, like, do I need to change or anything? Or is how I'm dressed okay?"
Tom laughs.
Tom- Nah, no need to change. Production is just setting everything up right now.
"Ah, okay."
Tom- Though I DO wanna ask you a few quick questions before we begin, if that's okay with you.
"Sure. Fire away."
Kelsey shoots him a smile.
Tom- Alright then. First of all, what was your favourite thing about the Wrestling Clinic?
"Uhhh --- probably getting to train with THE best trainers in the world and knowing that they were willing to give me the best foundation possible to start my career."
Tom jots this down.
Tom- Okay. How about the other trainees you were with. How did you and them get along?
"We got along GREAT. I loved training with them and learning from them, as well as from the trainers. They were all friendly too, so I clicked with them from day 1."
Tom- Who would you say has inspired you the most in the ring?
Kelsey begins to think about this question, stroking her jaw with her right hand. It's a question she herself hasn't truly thought about.
"Hmm --- Including or excluding my trainers?"
Tom- However you want to answer it.
"Then I would say Alyce, Emily and Fredrica have, as well as Maddy Satterfield. Those 4 were the first names I truly remember watching on television and the ones who sparked the flame inside of me."
Tom- Alright, sounds good to me. What is your primary goal in wrestling.
Kelsey simply laughs.
"Oh, that's easy. Winning the Ice Crown Tournament. That is what I'm focused on right now. Don't wanna get too far ahead of myself."
Tom nods at this. He likes how goal oriented she is, especially as he has seen many wrestlers shoot for the stars too early in their careers. It is then that they are interrupted by a stage hand leaning their head in through the door.
Stagehand- The filming crew is ready whenever you guys are.
Tom nods once more, pushing his papers off to the side.
Tom- Alright. (turning to Kelsey) You ready?
Smiling, she eagerly nods. Although nervous, she knows that it's best to get it done with so that she can at least say she did it. That she was able to get her face. Her name out there and help the place that gave her so much.
"Yeah."
Tom then stands as Kelsey does, the 2 heading towards the door and then the filming room.
---
Kelsey is sitting back in her studio, in the same chair that she had been when she recorded her last chat. Only this time, she has just finished watching Brandon Hendrix's words aimed in her direction. Words that hsbe caused a joyful yet focused look to come across her face.
"So, this is your redemption arc --- this is you rewriting your history. You grasping onto the second chance that you have been given. I respect that a lot. I really do, because just like a movie, you want to root for someone to be redeemable. You want to see somebody correct their path in life and make something from the fresh chance. The clean slate they have been offered."
"I may not know much about your original days here, because I was still training. Making my own way to this point, but I know that being able to admit one's flaws. Being able to admit that you were wrong and setting about correcting that wrong. About going out there and doing things the right way and making sure people remember you in a positive light."
She then reclines back on the seat, her face turning into a disappointed yet somehow still jovial expression as she remembers what he had stated about her.
"I do not blame you for not knowing much about me. I admittedly hsven't done anything in this industry just yet - but I will. Soon enough, you will get to see what I am all about. Just how I can sparkle between those ropes. Though, I am disappointed that it appears you aren't taking me seriously. That you are indeed, making the mistakes that I informed you that you shouldn't be making. The ones where you seem to discount me as a threat. That you're looking past me."
"Are you bigger than me? Yes. Are you stronger than me? Yes. Are you more experienced than me? Yes. HOWEVER, that doesn't mean that you're just gonna walk all over me and use me as a means to begin your redemption. I know what you can do in the ring, yet at the same time - I don't think you realise what I can do. I know I said I don't blame you for not knowing much about me, but wouldn't that make me more dangerous? Wouldn't that mean you SHOULD be on your guard? Respect is a 2 way street, and I've given you my respect."
She then ponders something. Deeply thinking about it and whether she should reveal it to Brandon. Just as he had talked about someone who motivated him to be who he is.
"I'll let you in on a little bit of a secret about myself. I was trained by 2 bona fide hall of fame wrestlers back home in Australia. 2 women who have defined the Australian wrestling scene over the past 15 years. They helped me find my feet and figure out the sort of wrestler. The sort of person I wish to be. And I am eternally grateful to them. Everything I do in the ring, is so that they can see just how much they mean to me. How much they allowed me to spread my wings and begin to fly."
"But don't think for a second that I am using that as a way to try and talk down to you. Or to guarantee that I will win, because I'm not. At all. I know that ego; hubris will only lead to me having egg on my face if I fail. If I cannot follow through with any promises that I make when the time comes for us to step into the ring."
She then places her arms atop the back of the chair, before her sweet smile returns to her face.
"I just want you to know that even though I respect you. Even though.I truly admire your desire to begin a redemption story, it's not going to be at my expense. I am not going to let my story. My time in the limelight end at your hands, no matter what it will take. If it means that I have to throw everything at you, I will. I am not afraid to go through pain and walk through hell, if it means I can come out on top. If I can walk away with the victory. There is not a single thing I won't go through in order to do so."
She then rocks forward before standing up and making a pose as if she was a star.
"It doesn't mstter to me. For I know that no matter what, it is what will be needed if I truly want to become the Ice Queen. If I want to prove I can become the star they wish for me to be. Do your worst Brandon and I'll do mine. See you Boxing Day!"
Walking off, Kelsey flashes a soft, friendly smile before leaving the studio once more. This time to head to the training gym, where she intends to train with Scotty and Bianca before her match.
|
|
|
|
Post by Scotty 'Silver Bullet' Adams on Dec 26, 2021 3:52:11 GMT
"Remember what Scotty told you ---"
Kelsey whispers this to herself, as she sits at the glass table in the backyard of her home - the strains of "Happy Christmas (war is over)" playing in the background. Thinking about the discussion she had with Scotty whilst they were waiting for the Christmas chicken to be served up. About what she needs to do, heading into her first round match with Brandon Hendrix. What they had been working on in their training sessions and how best to incorporate that into her work in the ring. Tie everything together in a nice, pretty bow.
It has helped that the training facility has someone that is a similar build to Brandon, so that the sessions have felt like simulations of sorts for the real deal. It's part and parcel of knowing your opponent is what Scotty would tell her. Of making sure that the gameplan you have in the actual match up is constructed and crafted specifically for your opponent. The task that lies ahead of her.
"Knowing your enemy is seventy-five percent of the battle ---"
She quietly remarks. That statement has been drilled into her head. To the point where it has even appeared within her dreams. It's been that obsessive to her, as she wants to learn all she can about the industry. She wants to understand as much as she can, for this is her life now. This is what means everything to her - and she plans on making every moment count. Just like those who came before her and paved the road she now transverses did.
She has picked up on a few details. A few things and retained them, but she knows there's more for her to learn. She knows that it's one thing to have the information in her head. To know how to comprehend it in theory, but it's another thing altogether to execute it in practice. To go out there and deliver on all you have learned. On all that you worked on in the gym, where there were only a few people watching, on a scale as grand as the one in the tournament.
"It's what must be done. If I am to fulfil my promise. If I am to go out there and give them all I have, then it simply HAS to be this way - it cannot simply be another work out. I have to treat this match as if it will be my last."
"It's what Brandon deserves. It's what the fans deserve and it is what Scotty and those who came before me deserve to see. There's no time to hold back. No time to ease myself into this, for that time is gone. Now, it's up to me to find it within myself. To go out there and leave nothing on the table. Make sure that when it is all said and done, there is no doubt that I did everything I could."
She lets out a soft breath, glancing around at the grass and mini garden that is to her right hand side.
"Whether or not I walk out with the victory."
Hearing the back door open, she turns her head and sees Bianca walking out. Smiling and looking at her, before sitting down on the stainless steel chair that had been vacant and to the left of Kelsey. In her hands, is a small box wrapped in gold/black paper and with a cherry coloured bow. She places it on the table, slightly nudging it in Kelsey's direction.
"How're you feeling?"
She looks at Bianca, a myriad of emotions running through her mind. Her body. About everything.
"Excited. Nervous. Scared. All at the same time. I know we've been training. I know the camp was supposed to help me, but now that I'm only a day away from it --- I. I don't how how I should be feeling. What if I fall flat on my face? What if I can't give it everything?"
Sympthatic to what is going through the younger woman's mind, Bianca places her hand softly atop Kelsey's. She had felt the same way when she made her own debut back in 2007. The bright lights and the crowds were as new to her then, as they are to Kelsey now. Feeling her touch, Kelsey attempts to settle her nerves, but still feels her stomach feeling as if it is a washing machine.
"I was the same way. I remember I nearly threw up the night I made my debut. It can be a daunting experience, for sure."
She exhales slightly.
"Just go out there and have fun. This is a special moment for you, so go out there and enjoy every bit of it. Don't think too much about what lies ahead, and let yourself drift away in immersion within each second."
"So, have fun but treat it as if it's my last match?"
"Guessing Scotty told you that last part?"
Kelsey slowly nods.
"Yeah. He said it was the way you give the match the respect it deserves. That I treat Brandon the way I would treat any other opponent."
Bianca softly laughs. She's heard him talk about that every time he steps into the ring. His way of motivating himself, and making sure that he never loses focus. She should hsve expected he would pass that on to her, or at the very least, he would have gotten Alyce to do it. Those 2 are known for that school of thought.
"Don't worry too much about that, sweetie. That's just who he is. He just wants the best for you. Just know that, but don't feel as if you need to force yourself into it. Don't try and make yourself into him. You gotta be your own self. You gotta go out them and show what KELSEY is made of. Show that you are enjoying yourself in the ring."
"That is the most important thing about this. Everything else will come in time. You don't need to have it all right away. Just relax and it will all come naturally when the time is right."
Kelsey, now starting to relax, sighs. Attempting to process the words that she has just been told. Two different mentalities, but both with the intention of helping her become the best wrestler she can be. Both helping her to figure out the sort of wrestler she wishes to be.
"A word of advice from me - the more pressure you put on yourself, the worse off you will be. Don't be afraid or worried about failure, because it WILL eat you alive if you even have an iota of doubt inside of yourself. NEVER be afraid if you make a mistake - we have all made mistakes in our careers. We have all done things we would have changed if we had the time over again."
"Mistakes and failures can become your greatest asset. You just need to be assured within yourself in order to be who you truly are."
"I'll. I'll try. I guess I'm just realising what this all means. What this world has to offer, and if I can find my sparkle within it."
"We all have. Trust me. I know you will though. I know you're gonna kill it out there. I know that Brandon isn't gonna know what hit him after this match."
"Really?"
Bianca simply nods.
"Yes. 100%. I believe in you, Kelsey. Scotty does too. So do the girls back home. They saw you in the video, and they want to see you truly become the butterfly we ALL know you can be."
Kelsey beams, as she wraps her arms around Bianca, with Bianca returning the embrace.
"Thank you. I needed this talk."
"It's no problem. I could tell you needed to know that it's okay to take it easy. I could sense it in your eyes.
Breaking away from the embrace, Bianca softly smiles. She has always had a sixth sense for this sort of thing. Whether it be Scotty, Kelsey or anyone else. Looking over to the present, she smiles.
"That's for you. Just a little something for Christmas and a way of showing you how much we care for you."
Opening it, Kelsey looks inside. Seeing that it is some icy blue and white attire, folded up neatly and glistening in the sunlight. Beneath the attire, are a DVD and a card.
"Oh my god. Thank you, so much. I LOVE this."
Bianca's lips remained curled in their smile.
"I thought you would. I reached out to the designer who made my attire and asked them if they could do this for you. It's a special gift and I know you will look stunning when you step out onto the stage in the tournament and even beyond."
"I will. I'll be as stunning walking out there as I will in the ring when I make sure that no matter who I face, they are left knowing that I am here. That I will shine, even if it means I have to give them more than I have in me. Starting with Brandon."
Bianca laughs, noticing the light in Kelsey's eyes.
"That's the spirit. Now, go out there tomorrow and kick some ass. I'll be in the stands, watching."
"I will!"
The 2 then let out a loud woop. You know the sort, before Bianca stands up and goes to head back in, knowing that it's around the time she usually feeds Lucina. Sitting there, Kelsey feels a new energy come over her. The nerves that had been there prior, washing away. This is her moment and she isn't about to let it slip away.
"Only one day now --- only one sleep until the dream truly begins. This is my time to shine, and Brandon, I'm so sorry, but I'm not gonna let you ruin it. I'm not gonna let you step over me."
Grabbing the presents, she begins to walk towards her studio.
"It's time for me to have fun. Do your worst, Brandon. I know I can take it."
End.
|
|
