NFW Collision #149 - 11/15/2022

The show doesn’t even have a chance to properly open as an unsettling aura begins to descend over the arena. The lights go out and the opening moments of I Prevail’s “Bow Down” begins to play. Eventually the build up is cut into by the shrieking vocals of Eric Vanlerberghe:


And with that, the arena lights burst to life, as the heavy riff begins to blare through the speakers. Jessi Ozborne walks out of the entry tunnel, clad in a cropped black tank top and camo capris, along with her usual sunglasses and bandana. Flanking her are Jordan Majors and Sanada, both decked out in matching gear and different Queens Of Chaos t-shirts.

Darlyn Fajardo: Ladies and gentlemen, the Queens! Of Chaos!

Nick Hanson: These three are strolling to the ring so proud of themselves after what they’ve done last week. So much so that we didn’t even have a chance to get started in our usual manner here tonight. I’m Nick Hanson, that’s Jim Reynolds, welcome to Tuesday Night Collision where we’ll be starting off our night with the premiere of The Queen's Court!

Jim Reynolds: We are in for an absolute treat tonight, Nicky! These disgusting Australians have no idea what they’re witnessing. This is history in the making! The Queens of Chaos are coming to do exactly what Jessi Ozborne proclaimed and make Collision the show to watch!

The Queens make their way into the ring, where three ungodly large thrones brandishing the Queens Of Chaos logo. They stand on top of a velvet rug covering the ring canvas, with metal pillars attached to the ring posts holding up a giant neon sign that reads “THE QUEEN’S COURT”. Jessi, Jordan, and Sanada all take a seat in their thrones, each grabbing their own microphones as the music fades.

Jessi Ozborne: Hello Canberra…

Crowd: PAPI’S HOME!!!

Jessi dances around in her chair the response from the fans before continuing.

Jessi Ozborne: Welcome to the first EVER edition of The Queen’s Court, where the three of us proceed to make your life better for the next 15 minutes. You’re fucking welcome!

Now, time to get down to business! People have had a lot to say about our actions last week. That it was “cowardly” or “deceitful”. That I was just trying to find any reason imaginable to skimp out on a match with one Crystal Caldwell. I wanna put those rumours to bed right now, and set the record straight. It’s as shrimple as this, people: Crystal Caldwell doesn’t deserve to have a match with me. I already proved back in Paris that in a one-on-one fight, I could beat her easily. Then two weeks ago, I further demonstrated my dominance by pinning her shoulders to the mat 1-2-3.

The gall and entitlement that Crystal had to strongarm our amazing General Manager, Mrs. Clarkson-Morian, into booking a match between us is absolutely sickening. On top of that, it’s an indictment of everything I’ve been saying about her for the past few weeks. At this point, she belongs in whatever daycare or grade school classroom she sends her daughter to, rather than wrestling ring.

Sanada: We're done with High Society and we're done with this shit, we're the dominant team. We don't need to lower ourselves to the High Society, we've shown how far we are above them. We didn't just talk, we beat them all the way. Me, Jessi, and Jordan had nothing to prove that High Society wasn't on our level and they couldn't hold on to us. And as we no longer care about High Society, we will move on to our next goal while High Society is left in ruins. As for the Queens of Chaos? We continue to prove that we are the greatest team in wrestling history that no one can deny.

Jordan Majors: Yes. Sanada and Jessi are right. We are DONE with High Society. Grandma 30 names and The Cracked Floundation have failed in their sad attempts to look “better” than us. To prove that we aren’t the present and future of this company - hell - this entire industry.

Now, I know, my own personal record has been a bit up and down lately. But when you look at the real numbers, you will see exactly what matters. A two-time tournament winner, 5-time champion, the Destiny of Dynasty when it came to the Vlad Blackheart Memorial Tournament, and maybe best yet, a good decision maker. Because given the chance to choose between my friends and shared future success and an old woman who is at the twilight of her very, very overrated career… I chose right. Mami chose her best friends and chose herself.

What’s next? Now that we’re done with these pathetic wastes of space? I guess it depends on who is filling the cups of management in the back and whispering in their ears to get what they want. But I guarantee you that Sanada and I could win any tag titles in this whole company if we wanted to. Whether we are given an opportunity like that remains to be seen, but what they can’t stop us from doing, no matter how hard they try, is bringing real change to this company. Pushing out the old and worn out wrestlers and narratives that have kept this company from real success and ushering in the next era of NFW. One that is triumphantly ruled by the QUEENS!

Jessi Ozborne: And that leads precisely to my next point. See, next month we’re looking at WrestleWar! Biggest party of the year, and because we’ve been too busy showing the invalids their place, we never got an invitation as the guests of honour. Admittedly, our fellow Queens over on the other show have been fairing a lot better. With no one else there to mess with things, they’ve all got opportunities at gold come December 20th. You truly love to see it.

Trust me, they’re gonna do just fine next month. Zara and The Deathriders are gonna end the bland, nothing Trios Title reign of Takashi Shinobu and his two adorable sons. And Alexandra Calaway is going to claim the Genesis Championship, by smacking the shit out of The Ringmaster so hard that his whack ass moustache will fly back to Chicago before he does.

But the whole thing would feel incomplete if we ourselves didn’t walk out of London with gold. Don’t have us mistaken, though. Unlike a certain entitled “Empress”, we’d like to earn our keep here on Collision, rather than constantly bitch to management about it. That’s why in the coming weeks, we’re going to make our case for why we should be inserted into some of these title matches, and we’re gonna do so in the ring. Jordan and Sanada are gonna start us off tonight, making short work of the Drama Club and proving they have more chemistry and tag team fundamentals than half of the mediocre wannabes on the tag team roster.

The fans boo at Jessi’s long diatribe, giving her a reaction that very blatantly reflects how they feel.

Crowd: SHUT! THE! FUCK! UP!
clap clap clap clap clap
SHUT! THE! FUCK! UP!
clap clap clap clap clap

Jessi Ozborne: Oh, I’m sorry. I thought I heard you guys say. “Well Jessi, what will you be doing?” And I’m glad you all asked!

Jessi pulls a belt from the side of her throne, setting it on her lap as it’s revealed to be the XIX Wrestling Darkhorse Championship.

Jessi Ozborne: See, as you all probably already know, I am your current, reigning, defending XIX Wrestling Darkhorse Champion! And I’ve made a point in saying that I am absolutely willing to defend this baby anywhere, against anyone. A proper defense on NFW soil, and against an NFW talent to boot, would be more than enough to prove that I’m championship material around here. But the thing is, I see hardly anyone in that Collision locker room worth the privilege of stepping up to me for this. So I’ve decided that next week, I’m going to defend this title against an opponent of MY choosing! You’re. FUCKING. Welcome.

The crowd boos even louder at Jessi’s ego and blatant cowardice. Jessi pays no mind to this, scratching her chin as she begins to think.

Jessi Ozborne: Let’s see…I think I’ll go with–

The AIS Arena comes unglued when audio emitted from Ms. Ozborne’s microphone shifts to several song snippets. Phrases such as “Who Can It Be Now?,” “If You Can’t Stand the Heat,” “Dancing Queen,” “Look What You’ve Done,” “Xanadu,” “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” “The Loco-Motion,” “You’re The Reason Why,” “Dark Horse,” and “Gotta Go Home” string together in a strange, static-stitched symphony. This maniacal medley features classics from Men At Work, Bucks Fizz, ABBA, JET, Olivia Newton-John, Oasis, Kylie Minogue, The Rubettes, Katy Perry, and Boney M. Fans suspect these tracks are a dueling dialogue between our confused champion and some mysterious maiden. Following this bizarre blitzkrieg on the Queens’ Courts aural sensibilities, a specific tune signals who will amplify Jessi’s annoyance. “Radio Gaga” by Queen rallies the crazed Canberra contingent as Azurine Vebbins pirouettes from the entrance ramp.

Azurine Vebbins: “Da Damsel in Dat Dress” Azurine Vebbins. Dat’s what you were gonna say, right? Came from da kitchen in Caterin’ to announce I’m gonna kick your sass. When we tango next Tuesday night, you’ll find out first forearm who really is rasslin’ royalty. I’m also well aware of how much foolproofin’s required for choreographin’ our flamenco. B-flat honest, paradise shall present itself after you’ve been properly pummeled and pommeled, Ozborne. Clin’ to dose merry memories. You’ll flail frightened if frustration focuses on what’s fleetin’. Dese chanters in Canberra and around da world believe “Da Vivacious Variable’s” confidently chuggin’ along. I won’t be veered off-track. I shan’t cease your sullen-sought sufferin’. Is dis lovely lady a longshot? In da minds of many, yes. However, dat means more notoriety when navigatin’ Queen Papi’s noggin towards nonstop nappin’...

Jessi gives Azurine a once over, looking almost offended at the proposition put in front of her.

Jessi Ozborne: Y-you still go here? I genuinely thought Brody cut you a while ago. I mean, this is the most I’ve seen you talk since I came back to Collision. And quite frankly, that might’ve been a blessing. Listen Azzy…Can I call ya Azzy?

Jessi pauses, seemingly allowing Azurine to answer. Before she can respond however, Jessi interrupts.

Jessi Ozborne: I don’t care. See, I don’t know what rock you’ve been under since these people have seen you last, but Collision is Queen’s Country now. But since you decided to cut in on OUR time, I’ll throw you a bone. Next week? You’re on. If for no other reason than for me to embarrass you right back to sharing your dumb national holidays with the head chef in catering.

“Da Vivacious Variable” takes Jessi’s snide remarks in stride.

Azurine Vebbins: Dis Canberra Choir of Chanters last saw me competin’ on NFW Collision in a ballet rumba. I lacked drive, passion, and purpose. What drives me now? Makin’ you shut da foxtrot up by turnin’ your metaphorical crown into my new waist halo. What’s my passion? Commiseratin’ wid colleagues over cranberries and how much we relish dem. What’s my purpose? Bein’ da irresistible intangible which renders your monarchy moot.

Jessi stares daggers through Azurine with a narrow-eyed glare.

Jessi Ozborne: Many people have tried, and many people have failed. Next week you fall in line with the rest, and you can take the paycheck and the 15 minutes of fame I allow you to. You’re. FUCKING. Welcome.

“Bow Down” by I Prevail plays once again as Jordan and Sanada exit the ring. Jessi raises her Darkhorse Championship belt in the air, getting in Azurine’s face before shoulder checking her as she passes by her. She steps to the ropes, seemingly about to head out of the ring. But she stops, giving a shrug and deciding to jump on the offensive with Azurine with the belt. Her challenger has this well-scouted, however, ducking the shot before catching her with the Sweetheart Sock Hop!

Nick Hanson: Whoa! Azurine Vebbins taking the fight to Reina Asesina!

Jim Reynolds: How dare she lay a finger on the Queen! She should be tried for treason, Nicky!

Nick Hanson: Jessi decided to take the low road and paid the price big time! If Azurine Vebbins nails that next week, XIX could have a new Darkhorse Champion!

Jordan and Sanada pull Jessi out of the ring, keeping her on her feet as they back up the ramp and talk trash to next week’s challenger! Azurine paces the ring, grabbing the Darkhorse Championship belt left by Jessi off the mat and raising it over her head as we fade.
We cut backstage to show a hooded and robed silhouette looming in a darkened hallway. An eerie blue-hued light illuminates the hall and figure. The silence is shattered by the loud calling of a whale. It slowly fades and is replaced by the voice of Milisandre Crowthorne.

Milisandre Crowthorne: Things have been too idle. Not enough has been said or done. Most of you do not listen. You only react. So tonight a message is being sent. His Message. Please do pay attention. Though I have no problem repeating it if needed.

The light flickers for a few moments. Then the regular hallway lighting comes back on. The figure is gone. Only a quiet, empty hallway remains.
Backstage at the AIS Arena in Canberra, the Silver Mountain Champion, Jonna Austin was walking the halls with Harper Lee who had returned. Harper still had a bandage around her arm, more so she didn’t have to look at the almost healed carving from a few weeks prior. The champion stopped and looked around the halls, looking almost bored, before she turned to her friend/manager.

Jonna Austin: I haven’t had a match since you got hurt, if I recall right, Harps.

Harper Lee: Well…there’s not much that we can do about it tonight. The card has been made and decided on for a week.

Jonna gave a little nod before the pair began walking again. It didn’t take long before the champion got a sudden idea and a grin on her face. She stopped again, catching Harper off guard by the sudden loss in motion. Harper tilted her head, silently questioning her friend as to what happened.

Harper Lee: What’s up, Jo? Why’d you stop so suddenly?

Jonna Austin: Y’know what? Jansen is having an open challenge tonight for the World Heavyweight Championship. I could always walk out of here with an extra belt tonight.

Harper Lee: That is true…I mean, I guess you would need to talk to Mrs. Clarkson-Morian about it.

Jonna nodded with a grin before changing her direction and taking off. She had a new destination in mind with a goal as well.

Jonna Austin: Well let’s go talk to the general manager then.

Both women high-fived as they walked down the halls.
The lights in the arena fade to black and the fans begin to cheer in anticipation for what comes next. The unmistakable gunshots ring out, lights flashing in sync with each gunshot, a car’s tires peel out and its engine roars as the lights gradually increase in brightness with smoke billowing up from the entrance stage.

The guitar riffs to No Resolve’s ‘Unkillable’ hit the speakers causing the fans to jump around and sing along as Dane F’n Preston comes barreling out from behind the curtains, emerging from the smoke with intensity and purpose.

Pausing briefly at the top of the ramp, Preston closes his eyes and takes a deep breath before his eyes snap open and he stalks slowly and deliberately toward the ring. As he steps between the ropes, Dane makes his way to the opposite side of the ring where he’s handed a microphone.

Dane F'n Preston: “Well now, it’s been too damn long since we met like this, wouldn’t you agree ladies and gentlemen?”

He pauses as the crowd pops.

Dane F'n Preston: “I feel like I owe you all an apology. See, I haven’t exactly been in the right frame of mind as of late, and that has definitely affected my game. For those who don’t know, I’m a recovering alcoholic, I suffer from anxiety and depression, and as many of you do know, I’ve got a split personality of my own that I’ve been doing my damnedest to keep at bay. Suffice it to say, I suffered something of a mental breakdown recently and I’m just now getting back into the swing of things.”

“But I want to make something very clear, I am not sharing all of this for attention or pity, I don’t intend to make these crutches that I can lean on for the duration of my career. These conditions do not define me, yet they are part of me, every minute of every day. I simply wanted to apologize that I haven’t exactly lived up to expectations. But that’s all about to change folks. Later tonight I’m stepping in the ring with my partner Bubba Thompson, as we lock up with Sylvia Lopez and Gabriel Ohio. Or is it Dolores and Gabriel? It’s so surreal stepping into the ring with someone else suffering from a multiple personality disorder.”

“On that subject, my condition is medically documented, caused by repeated head trauma and PTSD over the years. But Dolores and Gabriel strike me as some odd and creepy individuals, not suffering from medical issues, but rather giving into darker, more depraved desires and lifestyles. Where I’ve sought help from doctors, shamans and witches to help heal my mind, Dolores and Gabriel appear to have embraced the darkness in their hearts and minds. Hell, Gabriel was ranting on social media recently about spilling mine and Bubba’s blood and painting the canvas with it. Creepy little bastard, that one.”

The fans interrupt Dane and begin chanting CREEPY BASTARD, followed by a series of claps.

Dane F'n Preston: “You’re damn right! Now, I’m not one to shy away from bloodshed. I’ve fought in MMA octagons, a prison yard, street fighting cages, and wrestling rings all over the world. I’ve painted a few canvases with my own blood and the blood of my opponents many times throughout the years. Gabriel would be wise to remember that he’s not the only one in the ring capable of spilling another’s blood. And he’d do well to consider that I’ve been victorious against his partner’s alter ego, Sylvia, a few times during my tenure with NFW. But right now, all I see are a couple of unstable, weirdo freaks running amuck, thinking they rule the company. NOT JUST ON COLLISION. These creepy bastards think that they can do and say what they please without fear of consequences or reprisal. Well, they’re dead wrong. I’m taking a stand here and now and I will bring the fight anywhere I have to in order to remove these deluded deviants from their assumed places of power. I may be one man, but I know there are others out there with the same goal and I would gladly stand by their side in the trenches if it means ridding the NFW of these twisted freaks. Mark my words ladies and gentlemen, my crusade begins tonight with Lopez and Ohio!”

Dane raises the mic to eye level, crooks an eyebrow and opens his grip, allowing the microphone to fall to canvas. As his theme song hits, Dane climbs out of the ring and makes his way back up the ramp, disappearing through the curtains.
Last time around, everything was quite neat; every little bottle, dropper, decanter, compact, brush… all the tools to enhance one’s beauty were in their proper place. Nary a piece had a bristle out of place, nor were there any stray droplets of dustings of fine powder. Even the lights around the polished mirror were bright and proper. But what a difference a few weeks can make, eh? Now some of those bulbs are broken while others flicker, buzzing like an annoying insect that’s always a bit too fast or just out of reach. The mirror is marred, too, streaked and stained. A tornado may as well have hit the rest; bottles without lids, implements strewn like the aftermath of babysitting gone wrong… yes, it’s a flat-out mess.

And, sitting away from it, cross-legged and perched atop the coffee table, is one Zoey Madigan-Star.

Zoey Madigan-Star: Guess the fairy tale is over, eh?

She’s in her ring gear already, the more conservative style of it; the white corset-style top with purple trim over long black tights with lines of sparkling stars up the legs, worn beneath polished purple boots.

Zoey Madigan-Star: That’s what they like to tell us when things don’t go our way. They like to remind us that reality doesn’t have a happily-ever-after, that there are no magical endings. Reality is pain, and the sooner you figure that out and get yourself a helmet, hey, the better off you’ll be. Because it won’t hurt as bad, you see, the sky falling right on your silly little head-

Trailing off, Zoey gets quiet for a few moments. Honestly she just looks really sad and downtrodden. Her hat, off on the sofa, shakes and falls over. Lester hops out of it and then jumps over to the table, getting in Zoey’s lap much like a puppy or kitten would. Blinking her gold eyes, Zoey looks down and, managing a faint smile, scritches behind the bunny’s ears.

Zoey Madigan-Star: The lady doth protest too much, eh?

If a rabbit could purr, Lester would be doing that right now. Still, the smile is only temporary. Zoey becomes thoughtful again and, from the look of her face, few of those thoughts are nice ones.

Zoey Madigan-Star: Things haven’t been the same since almost a year ago. All it took was one finger pointed my way for the world to come crashing down. Lies travel faster than truth, you see, and once the rumor mill started turning, there was no stopping it. I think…

A hand is quickly brought up to her face, manifesting a handkerchief en route. Then it is lowered quickly with no evidence of anything upon it.

But it isn’t that simple, is it?

Zoey Madigan-Star: ...it’s how easy it was for everyone to just turn on me. The years of putting smiles on faces, of fighting the good fight and doing no wrong that wasn’t first done to me… in one moment that was all swept away. Of course, once the truth came out people started filtering back in. The cheers came back, too, as did the smiles. But it can never be the same. The taint lingers forever. And if I had done those rotten, evil things, I would accept it. It would be my scarlet letter. I would not shy from it. That is not how I was raised, after all.

The falsity of wrestling fans is clear to me now. As are the fake smiles and back-patting from people in the locker room who claim to be your friends to your face but whisper about you behind your back. Trust is like a piece of paper, you see…

She snaps her fingers and, of course, there it is held between her fingers.

Zoey Madigan-Star: It’s perfect and clean and smooth right now…

She looks at it, then gently crumples it up in that same hand. Taking her other hand off Lester for a moment, she tries to smooth out the wrinkled sheet, but even with her magic that is impossible. Yet, that’s the point, isn’t it? She holds it up for us to see, then… her tone getting a darker tilt to it.

Zoey Madigan-Star: ...but once it’s crushed, it’ll never be perfect again. For you younger folks not understanding the analogy, go listen to some Linkin Park or something.

The paper disappears into a puff of smoke and Zoey goes back to petting Lester silently for a couple moments.

Zoey Madigan-Star: The point?

Looking up at the camera, the magician’s eyes narrow a bit.

Zoey Madigan-Star: There isn’t one. I guess I just needed to say that out loud. You can call it an excuse if you want. Certainly I need a few after Dane Preston has endeavored to try and embarrass me over the past few weeks. I’ll probably need another tonight in case Saoirse kicks my head in. How far the mighty have fallen.

A wan smile before she gives Lester a little nudge. The rabbit dutifully hops back into the hat, which puts itself back in its proper position just in time for Zoey to pick it up and put it on her head.

Zoey Madigan-Star: So let’s do this, Sorsh, hmm? They might not be real in the grand scheme, but maybe I can create a few smiles tonight. If I try really hard, I can make myself believe they're real. For a little while, anyway.

Snatching her wand out of thin air, she taps it to the brim of her hat… but doesn’t disappear. Instead, she simply walks out of sight.
The camera finds “Psycho” Saoirse Maguire sitting backstage in a folding chair in her dressing room staging at her Shieldmaidens kutte that’s sitting over the back of another folding chair in front of her. Psycho sighs heavily, bowing her head, her forehead almost touching her wrists where they rest on her thighs.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: I’ll admit it, Zoey. I kinna bae sayin’ if I’m ready fer ye t’night.

Looking up, Psycho’s focus falls onto her kutte.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: A yaer ago, I would have baen ready fer ennithin. A yaer ago, I was in a very different place than I am now.

She pauses, nodding sadly to herself.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: A yaer ago, I was comin’ off a tird successful run in MHW as a singles competitor. I had made a name fer myself as a hardcore champion having baen th’ first hardcore champion in MHW.

This time, she nods more knowingly to the camera.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: Ask Gabriel Ohio, he was there fer tha.

She points to her chest almost like she’s reminding herself of her own accomplishments and accolades.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: I was the first hardcore champion in a second comp’ny and I won tha one tree times before movin’ on tae utter tings.

She sits back as the insignia on her kutte catches her eye again.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: A yaer ago, comin’ off tha tird run in MHW, I was gaerin’ up fer championship opportunities wit Bex in Gallus Mag in a pair o comp’nies…

She points to the floor.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: This one baein’ one o’ them.

She nods to herself again, her hands folding across her knees again.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: Bex an’ I were on top o’ th’ world. We would bae th’ tag champs in bote comp’nies by February an’ have th’ whole wrestlin’ world talkin’ about how Gallus Mag was one o’ th’ best, if nay TH’ best damn tag taem in th’ feckin’ world! There wasna tae bae any way tae bae stoppin’ us! Gallus Mag WAS on top… jess like Bex said...

She stares at the insignia and then lets her head hang in shame.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: Then May ‘appened.

Going silent for a second, Psycho swallows hard and nods to herself again. A slow, shameful nod as if making an admission in her own mind about something.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: Gallus Mag lost jess baefore May started haer in a match we shouldna have lost, but fair play tae Sela-Rica an’ Abigail, they got us an’ took th’ NFW tag taem championship from us.

She sighs heavily.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: We vacated in th’ utter comp’ny a waek later. Bex was tired o’ some o’ th’ shite tha was goin’ on wit th’ owner an’ she couldna take any more so Gallus Mag was jess done there.

Looking up, Psycho stares at the kutte in front of her and allows a small, wry smile.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: I thought tha would bae th’ worst faelin’ I’d ever have in wrestling’, losin’ bote championships like tha so close taegether an’ one wit nay aeven an actual fight. I couldnay have baen more wrong…

She trails off and bows her head in shame again.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: At th’ end o’ th’ month, th’ Astro Craeps made sure I would have a much different faelin’ tha I would never ferget n’matter how hard I tried. It all but ended Gallus Mag…

Refusing to look at the kutte anymore, her gaze remains glued to the floor.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: An’ it bae all my fault.

Shaking her head, she fights to keep her emotions under control.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: I had me first match in September 2018. I wanted tae prove tae meself an’ tae everyone else I could do it an’ I wanted tae prove I wasna gonna bae destroyed by whot had happened wit th’ Children o’ Nephilim when they were tryin’ tae rule Hybrid Wrestlin’ in it first run.

She inhales deeply, allowing the memories to come flooding back.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: They snatched me up jess like they did several utters including me brother, Shonn. They held us in isolation fer months until our fraedom was made a stipulation fer a big match. They…

Her eyes close as her hands squeeze into fists.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: Did tings… they… baet us… baet me…

Tears start to roll down her cheeks.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: They would do it every day until I didna tink I could take anymore an’ then they would laeve an’ close th’ door an’ I would bae alone in th’ dark, waitin’ me turn while I had to listen tae th’ utters scraemin’. hopin’ tha door didna open again because I knew when it did, it was time tae start all over again.

She tries to hold back the deluge, her whole body shaking from the strain.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: I spent four yaers figthin’ tha, fightin’ against th’ memory o’ whot was done tae me. I made it trough trainin’, I made it trough hardcore matches, I made it trough me brother’s dyin’ an’ then, when th’ Astro Craeps did whot they did in May…

She bites her lip, crying in pain and shame.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: I broke.

She sniffles, desperately trying to keep herself from losing it completely.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: Gallus Mag had tae go on hiatus baecause Bex felt she naeded tae raetire tae take care o’ me an’ our son because I wasna strong enough. I lost us th’ championships an’ then I lost us th’ caraer she had fought so long tae get back!

Forcing herself to look up, her eyes open and her gaze falls onto the insignia on the back of the kutte.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: I lost her trust.

She reaches out but stops herself after only a few inches.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: I should have lost th’ right tae call meself a Shieldmaiden. I lied tae meself an’ I lied tae utter about whether I was ready tae get back in th’ ring.

She bows her head one more time.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: I’m sorry me sisters, I failed ye all.

Inhaling deeply, she wipes the tears from her eyes and looks into the camera.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: I’m still searchin’, Zoey. I’m still lookin’ fer th’ strength I used tae have. I’m findn’ it moe an’ more every day an’ some day, I know I will find it and bae able tae make it right wit Bex an’ Gallus Mag.

She nod firmly.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: T’night, I give ye everything I have, Zoey. I know ye baen havin’ a hard time yerself, so t’night, we look fer whot we’ve lot taegether.

Psycho stands up, picks up her kutte and puts it on.

“Psycho” Saoirse Maguire: An’ one o’ these days, I’ll bae able tae look th’ Astro Craeps in th’ eyes, an’ take back whot they took from me! Down th’ road we go, Zoey, let’s see whot we bae findin’ yeah?
We cut backstage to find the eerie and strange Perseverance Champion, known now to the world as Dolores, with her championship fastened around the waist of her black dress as she carries the doll in both hands, while she makes her way down the corridor to go out for her tag team match coming up.

Nick Hanson: Well this is something we don’t normally see… but even Dolores makes walking down the corridor look… creepy.

Jim Reynolds: I’m just glad that screwed up thing isn’t messing with our video or audio this time.

As the woman continues her journey, she suddenly comes to a stop.

𝔇𝔬𝔩𝔬𝔯𝔢𝔰: ℑ𝔱 𝔦𝔰 𝔲𝔫𝔴𝔦𝔰𝔢 𝔬𝔣 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔱𝔬 𝔟𝔢 𝔥𝔢𝔯𝔢, 𝔠𝔥𝔦𝔩𝔡.

The camera then pans around to find Marley Divata, the cousin and manager of Zara Ivory, standing in the path of Dolores. Marley had a determined look on her face as she stood in front of Dolores… she hated even the thought of referring to her by that name instead of Sylvia, but she wasn’t completely stupid either. While she knew that it wasn’t technically Sylvia standing in front of her any longer, a part of her knew that the woman was trapped inside herself. With any luck, Marley was hoping to get to her.

Marley Divata: Wise or not, this is where I need to be tonight. You may think you’ve gotten rid of her, but I know Sylvia is still in there, Dolores.

The doll’s eyes move to look at the green-haired woman before its jaw drops open as Dolores laughs.

𝔇𝔬𝔩𝔬𝔯𝔢𝔰: ℑ𝔣 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔴𝔦𝔰𝔥 𝔦𝔰 𝔱𝔬 𝔱𝔯𝔶 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔰𝔭𝔢𝔞𝔨 𝔴𝔦𝔱𝔥 𝔥𝔢𝔯, 𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔫 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔥𝔞𝔳𝔢 𝔴𝔞𝔰𝔱𝔢𝔡 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔱𝔦𝔪𝔢. 𝔖𝔶𝔩𝔳𝔦𝔞 𝔦𝔰 𝔡𝔢𝔞𝔡 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔤𝔬𝔫𝔢 𝔣𝔬𝔯𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔯.

Marley Divata: I don’t and won’t believe that. Everyone that cares about her doesn’t believe that. And any time spent trying to save her from you is not time wasted.

After everything that had happened the last few weeks both during the show and online, Marley had grown more sure of trying to do something. She knew that Sylvia was strong on her own but even the strongest of people needed help once in a while. The green-haired woman took a tentative step closer and softened her voice a little.

Marley Divata: Sylvia, honey, we all know you’re still in there. You’ve got to fight against Dolores and come back to us… we know you can. We love you, Sylvia.

𝔇𝔬𝔩𝔬𝔯𝔢𝔰: 𝔈𝔫𝔬𝔲𝔤𝔥 𝔬𝔣 𝔱𝔥𝔦𝔰 𝔣𝔬𝔬𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔥 𝔟𝔢𝔥𝔞𝔳𝔦𝔬𝔯!

The lights begin to flicker as the doll’s eyebrows are now furrowed in anger. The unusual supernatural-like happenings don’t seem to phase the horror loving Marley, however that is until Gabriel Ohio appears beside Dolores.

Nick Hanson: This isn’t good, Jim.

Jim Reynolds: Maybe Marley should have listened to her screwed up boyfriend after all.

Dolores and Ohio slowly begin to step towards Divata, with the green-haired woman taking a step back with every step that they take towards her. Marley’s eyes darted between Dolores and Gabriel as she backed up, having heard about what Ohio was capable of, but when she felt a hand on her shoulder, she stopped. Glancing behind her, she let out a sigh of relief when she saw her cousin and Zara’s older sister, Zinna Divata standing behind her.

Zinna Divata: Looks like you could use a hand there, Mar.

Marley nodded a little in thanks at her cousin, having learned after recent events to have some kind of backup if she were to do something like this. Her gaze turned to the two in front of her, a new fire lit in her eyes.

Marley Divata: Foolishness would be giving up on Sylvia, and I refuse to take part in any such foolishness. I won’t stop trying to bring her back… even if it’s the last thing I do.

Now standing up to the two of them the way she was when it was just her and Zinna probably wasn’t the smartest choice. Neither of them were wrestlers, though they both knew how to fight if they needed to, and she had just gotten out of a cast a couple of weeks ago. But when it came to those she loved and cared about… well, Marley had never claimed to be the smartest one in the room.

𝔇𝔬𝔩𝔬𝔯𝔢𝔰: ℑ𝔣 𝔱𝔥𝔦𝔰 𝔦𝔰 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔭𝔞𝔱𝔥 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔠𝔥𝔬𝔬𝔰𝔢... 𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔫 𝔰𝔬 𝔟𝔢 𝔦𝔱!

Dolores and Ohio continue with their advancement on the two women in front of them, however when the Divata’s back up to a corner, we see Shieldmaiden’s, Alex “Bullet” Carbajal, Jackie “Bandit” Layton, Becca “Bruiser” Maguire, “Psycho” Saoirse Maguire and “Killer” Kara Carbajal come around the corner to stand behind the Divata cousins. Zinna smirks at their arrival while Marley seems surprised, and we also see a smirk on Ohio’s face seeing some of his former colleagues.

Zinna Divata: Did you really think I would be the only one coming to watch over my cousin? I made a promise that she’d be safe, and I keep my promises. Family means everything, whether they’re blood-related or otherwise.

Marley looked around at the Shieldmaidens for a second before her gaze settled forward again, her cousin’s words ringing throughout her mind.

Marley Divata: Family is the world to us, and Sylvia is part of my family now. And I’m making a promise that I will not break. I will find a way to free her from both of you.

Marley felt Zinna’s hand squeeze her shoulder again, and the woman stood tall as she glared at the pair in front of her.

Marley Divata: She will come back to her family where she belongs.

Knowing they are severely outnumbered, Dolores and Ohio turn their heads to look at one another as the lights flicker and temporarily cut off entirely. After a few moments, the lights come back on and Ohio and Dolores have vanished, leaving the Divata’s and the Shieldmaidens alone as we cut elsewhere.
We cut to the backstage area as we see Jonna Austin walking through the hallway on her way to the general managers office with Harper at her side, parts of her still covered in bandages from the attack on her by Johnny Towers which she had not forgotten because shes staying a little closer to Jonna than usual.

Jonna Austin: You don't have to worry, he won't get to you again I…

Before she can finish the sentence Harper is heard screaming and before she can react Johnny Towers is seen swinging a bundle of light tubes off of Jonna's head showering them all in broken glass.

Johnny Towers: YOU THINK THATS FUNNY YA FUCKING COW!

Harper tries to distract Towers but is met with a back fist sending her toppling to the ground which enrages Jonna who still dazed from the light tube shot and dripping in blood from her head tries to lunge at Towers who side steps the attack laughing.

Johnny Towers: Nice try ya daffy bint.

Towers takes out his pocket his spiked brass knuckles and swings at Jonna who catches his punch just in time letting out a scream of pain at the same time before cocking back her arm and connecting with a hook to the temple of Towers sending him stumbling back a couple of steps but still laughing as he hits her with his ultra stiff headbutt as Jonna tried to press the advantage sending both people reeling back.

Jonna Austin: You think that is enough to keep me down you dumb fuck.

Just laughing in response Jonna swings for Towers again but he ducks in time connecting with a shot to her stomach which makes her scream in pain dropping to her knees.

Nick Hanson: What the hell, it's taken more than that before to make her scream in pain like that.

Jonna moves her hands and a bundle of barbeque skewers is seen sticking out of her stomach, toughing it out she grabs a hold of them and pulls them out wincing as she drops them and as Towers advances on her Austin grabs a light tube that didn't break in the initial attack swinging it and connecting with Towers face causing him to bleed also which just causes him to rush at her and getting behind her and pulling her back to her feet but before he can hit her with FUBAR! Security rushes around them pulling him off Jonna Austin and making sure she cant try to continue the fight herself.

Johnny Towers: This isn't over, ive only just started to make your life a fucking misery.

Jonna Austin: Try it mother fucker, what else can you do?

Johnny Towers: Oh there is plenty i fucking promise.

Suddenly Towers takes something out of his pocket and throws it at Jonna, she catches it and unfurls a piece of paper and what she sees on it makes her go pale as they drag Towers away from her.

Johnny Towers: NEVER FORGET!… NEVER FUCKING FORGIVE!

Jonna collapses to her knees again a shocked look on her face as she drops what looks like a picture of her and Johnny with another man as the EMTs come over to help her up and take her off screen.