Post by Roxi Johnson on May 27, 2017 21:52:20 GMT
Greetings Amigos Y Amigas!
Well, it’s that time once again. Fresh of winning the La Azteca Rumble and punching my ticket to the front of the line, I would be remiss if I did not defend this Soaring Eagle championship that I love so dearly. This championship has been mine since, well, pretty much the inception of GOL. I have worn it with pride, with honor, and I have left the toughest of acts of follow once I do in facet lose this championship. I have felt nothing but pride and I can only hope I have made GOL proud with my reign as champion.
But, here I am acting like I’ve already lost it. That hasn’t happened. I am still the Soaring Eagle champion, and Chapter 11 will not make that any different. I don’t plan on losing this championship to anyone anytime soon, and that includes my opponent at Chapter 11, HeWhoCorrupts. To say that this match will be a tough test would be both an insult, and understatement. I’m not going to do either of those things. I am well aware of the challenge that awaits. And, I seemingly am already be subjugated to mind games by my opponent. For what reason, I don’t really know. People who have to play mind games apparently need some sort of edge. One would think that a person who is HeWhoCorrupts would not need to resort to mind games in an attempt to break me, or anyone else. I’m walking into a lego deathmatch, and my opponent is showing me pretty twitter pictures, odd shots of himself in blue spandex, and legos. What exactly am I supposed to think here? Should I now believe that heroes are corrupt? Spandex? Legos? I’m very confused about this whole thing. One, spandex can save your life if you treat ‘em right. Two, I don’t really wanna know what my opponent may or may not do with Lego toys, and three, and most importantly, people can indeed be corrupted. But those who push past that, who don’t turn down that path, can rebound, and still accomplish great things.
I’m not a saint by any means. I’ve done some questionable things. I’ve made bad choices. We all have, no one is perfect. I live with regrets and bad choices every single day. That doesn’t mean I don’t believe in the good in people. Mistakes and bad days don’t change us. Memories don’t break us. Everyone, can be an example of good, great, heroic even. It never has taken a cape or tights to make a difference. Just a person willing to act. A person needs only opportunity, and initiative. And that, brings out the best, in people. When we, as people, are at our best, we are incorruptible.
And that’s why drives me. That’s what makes me want to do things like this. Rise to challenges like this. To show people, that something that is trying to corrupt you, is only strong when you give it power. I’ve heard the superhero things before. I’ve heard the whole spiel about how heroes lose, and die. It happens. I happen to have read a comic or two. But it’s only for a fleeting moment. Eventually, they rise like the sun. And if HeWhoCorrupts wishes to knock me down, I’m going to get up. Over, and over, and over. I don’t fold under pressure. I have risen to challenges bigger, stronger, faster, smarter, and the list goes on, and on, and yet, I stand right here. I stand before each and every person, the GOL Soaring Eagle champion. I’ve never been one to brag about my accomplishments, I let them speak for themselves, but I will not let someone cast a shadow of doubt over me, to try and get in my head. I’ve been through that war a time or two as well. If HeWhoCorrupts is thinking these mind games and his sudden re-emergence has done anything other than inconvenience me scrolling through my twitter feed, it hasn’t. I don’t fear corruption, I turn it into motivation, a reason to fight. I didn’t need much of one considering this match is for the Soaring Eagle championship, but when someone is trying to change everything because they simply see things differently, and see the world through pessimistic eyes, it really just makes me sad, and hopeful that someday, they’ll see things in a more positive light.
Because, if you haven’t noticed, and judging by HeWhoCorrupts prior to this week, he hasn’t, I’m a positive person. I try to get along with everyone. And some people simply can’t stand that. But that’s okay, it means they’re human. But if I can make one person smile, or give them a pick me up, with even a hello, it can change things, make people better. That’s what I’m about.
But perhaps I’m jumping the gun on all this. Perhaps this isn’t as simple as black and white. Maybe HeWhoCorrupts isn’t as obvious as “non-descript henchmen wearing all black” Heck, I’ve seen HeWhoCorrupts have fun and laugh and joke in his promos, and he didn’t even do an evil laugh. So maybe there’s something else to this. It’s just simply his twist on things. And that, while a bleak outlook, is still an outlook.
I have tangled with HeWhoCorrupts once, and I came out on top. In fact, ever since then, he’s been gone, laying in the weeds, so to speak, waiting for the perfect time to strike I suppose. But this isn’t that time. No by a long shot. HeWhoCorrupts is not walking into Chapter 11, fresh after having months off, and simply taking this championship from me. No sir… I didn’t win this championship by accident or fluke, and I’m not losing it to either as well. If HeWhoCorrupts wants a match, if he wants a fight, I will give it to him. And it’ll be darn good one too. He, along with everyone else who tries to put me, and those I care about, those who cheer me, and keep me uplifted, and keep me humble and grounded all at the same time, those same people you try to put down? There are consequences for that kind of action. And I am eager to show those people, the error of their ways.
I am, who I am. You may laugh, you may doubt, you may believe yourself better, more prepared, more focused, more driven, but you can, and will be proven wrong. I strive each and every day to get better. Better as a person, a parent, a wrestler, a woman. Because those are those, like HeWhoCorrupts, who will challenge what I say. And that makes me work even harder to prove them wrong. I come in, gladly to the field of battle, to fight, to win, and to leave everything on the battlefield, for those who stand with me. Those who believe. For them, I will fight, and I will win.
Who am I?
I am a champion.
And will see all of you, Sunday, for Chapter 11.
Lego Death match, here I come. [/i]
{The scene opens inside Roxi and Keira’s apartment in Tampa. Baby Nate crawls on the floor with Roxi keeping a close eye on him while Keira finishes cleaning off the dinner table after a nice steak dinner the two had. Nate continues to explore the house given his newfound ability to now crawl without much effort. Roxi has to get out of her chair to follow him as he motors around the floor.}
Roxi – Where are you going?
Keira – Anywhere and everywhere.
{Nate pays them no mind walking towards the kitchen and following Keira as she puts the plates in the sink to wash. Nate crawls around and see the trash can and decides it’s worth investigating. He starts hitting the plastic can and then reaching for the plastic trash back contained within. Roxi spots this and moves in and squats down in front of Nate.}
Roxi – What are you doing? That’s the garbage. You don’t want any of that. It’s yucky.
{Nate then pulls on the plastic anyway.}
Roxi – No. No garbage. No garbage.
{Nate looks more annoyed than anything else as he crawls past Roxi, his efforts to see the garbage thwarted. He crawls into the hallway, making his way to the stairs, which are blocked by a child gate. Nate gets into a position where he is on his knees which both hands touching and shaking the gate.}
Roxi – No stairs. You know that.
{Nate continues to bang on the gate before losing interest and crawling back towards the kitchen looking at Keira, who sees him and smiles.}
Keira – Awww, want Mommy to hold you?
{Keira smiles as she bends down and picks up Nate, holding him}
Roxi – Does mommy Keria got you?
{Nate coos as Keira takes him to the play area}
Keira – Wanna do some sit ups?
{Nate coos in happiness as Keira sets it up as she helps Nate, placing her hand below his head so he won't hurt himself}
Roxi – You can do it.
{Nate begins to, having some trouble, but was slowly able to, Keira making sure he doesn't get hurt}
Roxi – Yay!
{Roxi looked happily but then a look of concern at Keira}
Keira – What's wrong?
Roxi – Should... should he be able to do pull-ups and sit-ups already?
Keira – No...but he's been doing this ever since he saw us do them
Roxi – Still, kind of worries me.
Keira – You think he has our powers?
Roxi – I don't think so, but he's picking stuff up really... really fast.
Keira – He has your brains
{Keira helps Nate up and takes him to his crib}
Keira – But...no 7 month old should be learning this fast....
Roxi – It make me worry. But, he does have a doctors appointment next month so... maybe we'll find out then.
Keira – Regular or Guild Doctor?
{Keira sighs}
Roxi – The normal doctor
{Roxi looks down at Nate}
Keira – You sure?
Roxi – I don't want to take him to the Guild Doctor unless we know for sure, that something is wrong, or he's showing any signs that he's really got any powers. I mean, maybe I'm just being paranoid. He's growing, getting smarter, that's... that's normal, right?
Keira – Yea. He's just growing up, Rox
Roxi – I hope so
Keira – Roxi, you seriously need to stop worrying
Roxi – It's just how I am. You know that.
Keira – And I told you that it's gonna give you grey hairs. I'm not joking about it, either
Roxi – I can't help it.
{Keira places her hands on Roxi's shoulders}
Keira – If Nate does have powers, he will control them. If he doesn't, then it means he's growing up.
Roxi – I know. But... this is our son, and you know it's our first. I wanna get it right is all.
Keira – We will. Then when it's time...we'll go for Baby Number 2
{Nate begins to squeal happily in his crib.}
Roxi – Excuse me? We're having a conversation here!
{Keira giggles}
{Roxi picks up Nate and carries him back to the living room and let's him down where he knocks over some building blocks and continues on towards the closet. He pushes on it, slowly opens it a crack, and Roxi can see her costume peaking through the clothing. She sighs and closes the cloest before picking Nate back up and sitting down with him to give him his bottle.}
Roxi – Alright, that's about enough out of you. It's time for bed.
Keira – Roxi...why is the closet being cracked open?
Roxi – Because a little boy decided he needed to open it. I closed it back.
Keira – He didn't see...
{Keira points to the costumes}
Keira – ...Did he?
Roxi – I don't think so. He barely saw inside
Keira – Good
{Roxi relaxes, sitting back and humming a tune to Nate as his eyes grow heavy.}
Roxi – How were things with your sister
Keira – Tiring! With Maria trying to figure out what to wear for Keri's wedding and Keri freaking out over her wedding coming soon.....I bought Hot Wheels just to calm me down
Roxi – Keri and Angelica finally putting it together, huh?
Keira – With Kat's help.
Roxi – Well, that's another wedding we're taking part in? Or are we just spectators?
Keira – Well, I am one of the bridesmaids. I am her sister, duh!
Roxi – I didn't know! I figured maybe she'd use other friends.
Keira – I know. But soon, she'll be married. That should be the last in our extended family to be married. Not like Nicole will get married anytime soon
Roxi – I doubt it, she's too busy traveling the world
{Keira smiles as she kisses Roxi}
Keira – I think you need to put Nate in his crib
{Roxi looks down as Nate's eyes are closed and he's fast asleep}
Keira – See?
Roxi – Yeah.
Keira – Go put him to bed
{Roxi rocks with Nate a little more, before taking the bottle out of his mouth and then carrying him to his crib to put him to bed. She gently covers him with his blanket and turns on the baby monitor before heading back to Keira.}
Keira – Sooo, ready for your match?
Roxi – Yeah, I think so. After winning the rumble I just have to get through this hurdle. And it's probably my toughest to date.
Keira – Oh, is that right?
Roxi – Well, a guy by the name of He Who Corrupts.
Keira – You can take him.
Roxi – I hope so.
Keira – What’s the matter, not confident?
Roxi – I… I am confident I can win. I know I can win, but outside of one appearance in GOL, during the Christmas show, this guy is a total unknown to me. I don’t know what to expect.
Keira – I’m sure you’ll figure it out. You haven’t been Soaring Eagle champion for all this time for no reason.
Roxi – Yeah, I know.
Keira – And by the way, I'm your toughest test ever.
Roxi – Well, there's only one Keira. And thank goodness for that.
{Keira giggles}
Keira – Maybe we should work on Baby Number 2, then
Roxi – No, not yet. This one isn't even a year old yet!
Keira – Ok, got any better ideas?
{Keira says, softly massaging Roxi's shoulders, hinting}
Keira – Cause I got a few....
{Roxi smiles, shakes her head, and walks past Keira towards the closet.}
Roxi – Actually, I have an idea of my own
Keira – Which is?
{Roxi carefully opens the closet and pulls out her costume.}
Roxi – It's been a long time...
Keira – It has...but who'll take care of Nate while we're out?
{Roxi looks at Keira.}
Keira – We can get Christine to come over. She's one of the few that knows our secret
Roxi – No... not us... Just me. Just a patrol. I shouldn't be gone long. Next time, you can take it.
Keira – Poo.
Roxi – You know we can't leave Nate here unattended, but if the problem ever comes up where it requires us both, Chris knows, but we can't put her in too much trouble with Sasha pregnant.
Keira – I know. Plus, I did get some action while I was up north. Damn...he tried to fist me all...night...long
{Keira giggles, knowing Roxi knew that Keira meant fighting crime}
{Roxi looks at Keira for a second and then shook her head.}
Roxi – Everything is sex with you.
Keira – It was a fight at a bank. Nothing about sex
{Keira sighs}
Keira – Which reminds me. I need to resew my costume as well
{Keira goes to her bag and pulls out her costume, showing a cut that was done by a sword}
Keira – Don't ask what he tried to do.
Roxi – Another story for another day.
Keira – Be careful, Roxi
Roxi – It's been quiet. If anything happens, I'll let you know. Chris has a key if you need to call her.
Keira – Ok
{Keira kisses Roxi}
Keira – Kick ass, LB
Roxi – I will. I'll be back soon. I promise.
Keira – Ok, baby
{Roxi took her costume towards the room, but turned back to Keira.}
Roxi – I love you.
Keira – I love you too
{Roxi winked and entered the spare room and changed into her costume before heading off on a patrol.}
{Roxi takes flight, flying around the city seemingly at peace with everything. She peers down looking over the place she protects. There are no sirens to be heard, nothing appears out of the ordinary. She flies down to a nearby bridge peering out into the ocean, and back into the city where there are busy streets and the night sky back lit by all the bright colors of downtown.}
Roxi – Beautiful.
{Roxi takes off again, flying a comfortable distance above ground and carefully scanning around for anything of note. Finally, flying over the not-so-well-lit more rural area, she spots a glimmering light coming from on parking lot. She gets closer and it appears abandoned, but there are cars in the shape of an “X” that are on fire. Looking to see if this is some kind of car graveyard and finding only the five cars as the only vehicles in sight, she flies down for closer look. She carefully lands and looks around.}
Roxi – Hello? Hello?!
{There is no response, the area appears to have no one around. She looks up at what used to be a local grocery store, which is now empty with the windows boarded up. She looks around trying to find some way to put the cars out. She peers closely at the cars, as to not get burned and notices that the cars appear to have been burning for some time. She looks and sees no one in any of the vehicles, before continuing to find something to put the fires out.}
Roxi – There must be something around here…
Voice – I was wondering when you were going to show up!
{Roxi looked around, confused trying to locate the source of the voice. She looks up on top of the roof of the abandoned store to see who it is.}
Voice – Do you know how long I’ve waited for you?
Roxi – Who are you?!
{Roxi is then blinded at the lights in the parking lot still have power, and they are turned on. Roxi backs away covering her eyes until they adjust.}
Voice – Don’t tell me you forgot about me…
{Roxi’s eyes adjust as the figure jumps down off the roof, landing and marching into the light.}
Roxi – Claire…
Claire – Good. You do remember Rox.
Roxi – Claire, what are you doing?
Claire – I’ve been waiting here. For you.
Roxi – All this time?
Claire – I lit these cars on fire months ago. The rain would put them out, I’d relight them, keep them burning for days. I’d put them out and relight them. In hopes, that you would see them.
Roxi – What do you want?
Claire – You. Dead.
Roxi – Claire… it doesn’t have to be this way.
Claire – OF COURSE IT DOES!
{Claire shouts at the top of her lungs and starts moving in Roxi’s direction.}
Roxi – No.
Claire – You left me to die.
Roxi – I tried to save you. I never wanted you to be part of this! You know that! You got yourself involved!
{Claire stops, balling up her fists in anger.}
Claire – YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO BE THE HERO! SAVE EVERYONE! WHY DIDN’T YOU SAVE ME?!
Roxi – ...
Claire – I saved your miserable life Roxi. If it wasn’t for me, Harold Peterson would have killed you.
Roxi – Claire… I tried… I wanted to go back for you. I WANTED TO SAVE YOU!
Claire – And yet… you didn’t.
Roxi – YOU TOLD ME TO LEAVE!
Claire – And you did… You left. You started all this.
Roxi – I didn’t start anything! I spent months trying to find you. I spent every waking moment I could trying to figure out if you were alive or dead! I never gave up trying to find you.
Claire – So why did I, have to find you?! Where was Roxi Johnson when I needed her most?! Going on dates! Saving other people! Getting married!
Roxi – No… no one could find you. I exhausted every possible resource I could to try and find you.
Claire – And then…
{Claire kicks a car door and it falls off the car itself on to the ground.}
Claire – You gave up, moved on.
Roxi – I never gave up on you Claire. I’m still not giving up on you now…
{Claire begins to chuckle touching her head.}
Claire – You think a speech will stop anything now? I have waited to kill you for a long time. I had to buy time, make sure, because you damn well will throw your own life away, I had to make sure you didn’t get yourself killed. Because no one is going to kill you, except me.
Roxi – Claire we don’t have to do this…
Claire – I ALREADY TOLD YOU WE DO! IT’S DESTINY! PRE-DETERMINED!
Roxi – You’re not well. Let me help you.
{Claire stares at Roxi shaking her head.}
Claire – It’s too late for that now. It has to end one way. One of us, has to die.
Roxi – No, this is madness! I don’t want to fight you!
Claire – Why? Scared you’re going to hurt me with your powers?
Roxi – ...
Claire – I’m not stupid. I saw you fight that had with the bitch with the mask, remember. Saved you… AGAIN. I could have killed you right then and there!
Roxi – But you didn’t. Because you… deep down inside… you’re my friend Claire. The friend I went through 5th grade through freaking high school with! My friend! And I want to help you!
Claire – Like you did before? No thanks. I learned from Harold how to survive. Amass an army. But, as the saying goes, if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself.
Roxi – Claire… don’t…
Claire – Save the begging for later. And while you have your powers. I have my own secret weapon.
{Claire pulls a syringe out of her jacket, the needle point capped.}
Claire – They don’t make this stuff anymore. Your powers are far beyond that of a normal person. And honestly, I don’t even think me injecting this will even begin to make your strength… But how many vials of this do you think will match it? I’m curious.
{Roxi’s eyes widen under her mask as she figures out what Claire is about to do.}
Roxi – Don’t! It’s suicide!
Claire – One of us has to go Roxi. There is no other way.
{Claire bites the cap off the needle point and jams the syringe into her neck. Her muscles bulge out slightly, her own strength, dexterity, agility and other physical attributes pushed to a new level.}
Roxi – Claire…
Claire – FIGHT ME!
{Roxi stands, ready to fight for a moment, and then drops her hands.}
Roxi – No.
{Roxi turns getting ready to walk away. Claire has an incredulous look on her face as she shouts at Roxi.}
Claire – THEN YOU BETTER DEFEND YOURSELF!
{Claire leaps with all her fury and rage as Roxi spins and covers herself up as she is tackled to the ground. There are rapid fire punches coming her way but Roxi has them all pretty much blocked. Claire starts swinging wildly trying to get a blow to land and causes Roxi to flip her off of her to get back up. Before Roxi is even fully standing, Claire tackles her into one of the burning cars. Claire tries to muscle Roxi’s face towards the fire, but Roxi overpowers her and pushes her back. Claire instantly is right back in control, kneeing Roxi in the ribs and driving the point of her elbow is Roxi’s spine, before Roxi dodges an attack with Claire’s knee. Claire closes the distance in a heartbeat trying with everything to hit Roxi who is dodging to keep Claire away, before Roxi finally kicks Claire in the chest and sends her back. Claire lands on her back, but rolls to a kneeling position and quickly is back up, kicking one of the burning cars causing the debris to fly everywhere and the car to physically uplift and fall back down.}
Claire – YOU’RE NOT TAKING THIS SERIOUSLY!
Roxi – I don’t want to fight you, Claire! Get it through your head!
{Claire angrily pounds the car before turning back and grabbing another syringe from her belt.}
Claire – You… you’re toying with me! That syringe obviously wasn’t on your level. Let’s try two!
Roxi – No!
{Claire jams the syringe in her neck as her body again bulges out, increasing the her muscle mass to a dangerous level.}
Claire – Round two!
{Claire yanks a car door off the car and hurls it in Roxi’s direction, which Roxi avoids, but has no time to avoid a punch to the face as Claire clears several feet in milliseconds. Roxi flies back and lands on the pavement, shaking out the cobwebs as Claire leaps through the air and tries to land on her, but Roxi rolls away and puts her arms up to block the even faster swarm of punches that Claire throws with reckless abandon. Claire then kicks Roxi in the knee and begins to slam her head back into the pavement before trying to straight out strangle Roxi with a chokehold. Roxi gets her arms in between Claire’s shoulder, gripping her wrists and headbutting Claire in nose to move her back. Roxi rolls back up and sees Claire holding her nose before wiping the blood away on her jacket sleeve, before tossing her jacket aside and smiling like deranged lunatic.}
Claire – That’s more like it.
{Claire again launches herself into the air to clear the distance between herself and Roxi, throwing more wild punches as she gets near, backing Roxi up against another SUV and punching through the side windshield with ease, and not breaking stride nor momentum as Roxi backs up slowly, trying to keep her power in check, knowing full well that any observation by Claire will result in another injection. Also if nothing else, this made Claire waste energy, and she would tire out trying so hard. Claire didn’t look tired at all to Roxi, causing Roxi to second guess her rope-a-dope strategy.
Roxi dodged Claire’s punch, but got caught with a side kick in the ribs, causing her to stumble back, then tackled and picked up several feet into the air with Claire grabbing her waist and slamming her hard onto the roof of one of the cars. Roxi groaned in pain as now more blows were getting through as Roxi began to realize she had to use at least some of her power, otherwise Claire would almost surely beat her to death if she tried. Claire began raining down elbows and fists onto top of the car. Roxi looked and realized there was a sun roof on this car. She flared up, striking Claire across the face, and then pulling her through the cracked sunroof glass and into the car.
Roxi rolled off the roof, but Claire kicked the rear passenger door out and it hit Roxi in the back. Claire stepped out, even more furious.}
Claire – You…. Are still… toying with me.
Roxi – Claire… listen…
Claire – All you do is talk! I felt that surge of energy on the car… You’re not even close to fighting me…. Fine…
{Claire takes out a third syringe and plunges it into her neck once again. Her body and muscles bulge wildly and she begins to more or less growl at Roxi, seemingly becoming like a feral animal. Roxi scrambles to create distance and is finally forced to start using her power she has been trying not to use in order to defend herself. But before anything can happen, once Claire settles down, her arm begins an rapid and freakish amount of atrophy. Roxi and Claire can both physically see the muscle shrink as Claire howls in pain. She backs away and reaches into her pants and pulls out some kind of remote device and pushes it before Roxi gets back up and starts advancing towards her.}
Roxi – Claire?
Claire – GET AWAY!
{Claire’s voice is almost inhuman as she staggers back.}
Roxi – Claire! Let help you!
{Roxi keeps advancing towards Claire, arms out, trying to get close enough to actually see what in the world is happening to Claire. Before she can get close enough a helicopter is heard coming from the distance. It zeroes in on the area and lands a safe distance from the parking lot. Roxi is distracted and Claire shoulder charges her with her good arm into another car, however, Claire accidently stabs herself on a jagged hood ornament, dripping blood but not even noticing as she scurries to the helicopter and it takes off with Roxi looking up at it.
She flies directly up and towards the door where Claire is sitting covered up by her henchmen as one of them starts firing bullets at her. Roxi dodges and flies out of view but not before planting a tracking device on the chopper itself, before allowing it to fly away.
Roxi flies back down and looks around, grabbing Claire’s jacket she left behind and begins wiping up the blood from Claire on the cars. She takes a moment to let her healing kick in before flying off to an unknown location.}
{Roxi lands in a quiet neighborhood and walks up to a large country-style house. She walks up the porch steps and rings the doorbell. There is no movement inside, as Roxi waits a few moments before ringing it again. Finally the door opens and Amy Jo Smyth answers the door, her pistol in her hand and aimed for a moment at Roxi before she realizes who it is. She stares at Roxi for a few seconds rubbing the sleep out of her eyes and her anger rising.}
AJS – What the hot fuck are you doing here?! It’s two in the dang morning.
Roxi – I need your help.
{Before Smyth says anything else, she notices Roxi’s torn up costume and patches of dried blood.}
AJS – Come on in...
{Smyth leads Roxi to the kitchen where she turns on the lights and begins to make coffee. After making herself a cup, along with Roxi, the two sit down at the table.}
AJS – So, you wanna explain why you’re visiting, in costume, with a bloody jacket in your hand? Or am I supposed to figure that out too?
Roxi – I said I needed your help. I need the blood from this jacket analyzed.
{Smyth takes a look at the jacket and takes it away from Roxi and holds it out.}
AJS – Friend of yours?
Roxi – Yes… I mean… No… I mean… I don’t know anymore.
{Roxi slowly peels off her mask and lets out a sigh.}
Roxi – Long story short, my friend from elementary school got caught up in what I do. She saved my life from the guy who stole this… warrior serum. I was more or less dead if she didn’t interfere. And the building caught on fire and… She… didn’t make it out.
AJS – So this is your dead friends blood?
Roxi – Yes… and no. She didn’t die. Somehow, I can only imagine using the warrior serum she survived. She may have perfected it. She was gone for… years. She came back, swore revenge, she took up my identity when I got suspended, threatened my family. And then… she saved my life, on a couple other occasions before tonight.
AJS – How could anybody hate you?
Roxi – She blames me… for not saving her. I think Harold Peterson filled her mind with that kind of rhetoric. Before she killed him.
AJS – Before or after, she saved your life again?
Roxi – Before. She’s been planning this for a long time. And tonight, she tried to kill me again.
AJS – Well, seeing as you’re here, and she’s not, I’m guessing that didn’t happen.
{Smyth takes a sip of her coffee and then turns and stares at Roxi.}
AJS – You didn’t?
Roxi – No… Nno.. I… I mean.. I don’t know. That warrior serum doubles, even may triple a person’s strength, speed, perception, everything, you name it. Heightened senses, the whole nine yards.
AJS – And I’m guessing you have super-powered superfight?
Roxi – Not willingly. The worst part is, she’s destroying herself to get to me.
AJS – How?
Roxi – She’s taking the warrior serum. A lot.
AJS – That’s gonna be a fucking problem.
Roxi – I had to take it before, and even in those moments, I felt things slip. It was only temporary, but it was still there. And that, was a measured dose. There’s no telling how long she’s been taking the serum…
AJS – And like every junkie, they need a stronger hit. If what you’re saying is true, then she may not even properly measuring the stuff anymore.
Roxi – Tonight… she took three hits… She’s killing herself to get to me. And… it’s my fault.
AJS – You can’t possibly blame yourself…
Roxi – AJ, You were a cop, you know, I know, every person who takes the risk knows, you can’t save everyone, but it never stops us from trying.
AJS – This isn’t your fault. It’s not something you planned. This woman is clearly a fucking psycho and you need to stay as far away from her as possible. Give me a description of her, we’ll get her locked up, put away so she can’t get to you, and get her the help she needs.
Roxi – No AJ, it is my fault. She didn’t make it because I couldn’t save her then. Please… just… analyze the blood, and hopefully we can find something to go on.
{Roxi stands preparing to leave. Smyth stops her and places a hand on her shoulder to keep her there.}
AJS – I’ll do this, but you need to stop blaming yourself. And torturing yourself. Seriously. Why… why do you even want the blood analyzed, you seem to know what’s going on anyway…
Roxi – Because I want to believe that deep down, my friend is still there, one who’s mind isn’t corrupted by this whole thing.
{Roxi turns again to leave, but Smyth stops her again.}
AJS – Let me… at least patch you up. Keira will flip out if she sees your costume torn. I have a sewing kit in the bathroom.
Roxi – Allison’s probably pissed enough as it is…
AJS – A green clad red-head knocking on our door at 2am? Yeah, I might be dead. But let’s fix you up first.
{Smyth steps away to retrieve the sewing kit, with Smyth’s cat standing in front of her on the floor.}
AJS – Move you stupid cat!
{The cat stands her and then when it feels like it, it moves away and AJ goes and grabs the sewing kit, then takes Roxi into another bedroom to fix the holes and tears in her costume.}
{Roxi slowly re-enters the house and tries to creep towards the bedroom, only to see Keira sitting down and rocking with the sleeping Nate.}
Keira – Where have you been? It's 2:30...
Roxi – Sorry. Took a little longer than I thought. Just... sweeping and exploring and stuff.
Keira – Ok...
Roxi – But, I'm back. I'm sorry I made you worry.
{Keira smiles, but then notices some blood coming from her boot.}
Keira – Just...sweeping and exploring?
{Roxi looks down and shrugs.}
{Keira goes and puts Nate back in his crib. She then goes to Roxi, a bit mad.}
Keira – What...happened?
Roxi – It was.... a minor thing, just a druggie in an alley. Nothing I couldn't handle.
{Keira smiles a bit as she hugs Roxi, but she could hear some painful moaning.}
Keira – What the...
Roxi – He got a lucky shot in. I'll be fine in a bit.
Keira – Clothes off....
{Roxi lifts her shirt and a deep bruise is seen from Claire's combat boot, and deep cuts from crashing through a windshield hours before.}
Keira – A druggie? Really? What happened!?
{Roxi sighs and sits down gingerly as she heals.}
Roxi – It was Claire...
{Keira lowers her head and shakes it. She turns and quickly goes to the closet.}
Keira – That settles it
{Keira comes out, wearing her Lady Kat costume and adjusts her mask.}
Roxi – No... No, it's... It's not that simple
Keira – She hurt you! I should have been with you. Ever since the Fake Bedlam incident. She's been wanting to kill you. SHE CAME CLOSE THIS TIME!
Roxi – No. Claire... Something is wrong with Claire.
Keira – Tell it to me after I cripple her!
{Keira walks out and begins to fly off.}
Roxi – Keira don't!
{Roxi slowly chases after Claire to grab her shoulder, Keira was already a few feet away, trying to sense Claire.}
Roxi – Keira... please.. .come back inside
{Roxi slowly and gingerly tries to keep pace with Keira]
Keira – No, you go back, heal and take care of Nate. This ends tonight!
Roxi – No... please, come back inside, There's more to this than that. Please...
{Keira flies off, far away from Roxi's reach.}
Roxi – I'M ALREADY TRACKING HER!
{Keira stops as she flies back to Roxi.}
Keira – What?
Roxi – I put a tracking device on her helicopter. I had to see AJ, she's analyzing some blood. Claire's having some kind of reaction to taking the Warrior serum. She knows about our powers, and every time I tried to use my strength, she took another dose. She's killing herself to match our strength level. I can't... I can't let her continue on this path. You would only escalate it...
Keira – I wouldn't. I'd just cripple the bitch. She's not as strong as I am. You and I know it!
Roxi – That's the point. She's going to keep dosing herself to try and match it. She'll kill herself! I can't allow that to happen. Despite it all... it's still my friend in there... somewhere.
Keira – So she pretty much attacked you to get to me?
Roxi – She wants to fight me. She wants to kill me. It's my fight.
Keira – No. It's OUR fight. Roxi, it's always been our fight! I will not let Nate grow up without a mom!
{Keira, now showing a rage that Roxi gets sometimes when Keira had got to that point with Roxi}
Keira – Roxi, I love you. I love you with all of my heart. But you know how I feel when you fight alone.
{Keira softly grabs Roxi's hand, using her thumb to rub the back of Roxi's hand.}
Keira – Baby, alot has changed since we first fought Claire. I don't want to lose you.
Roxi – Keira... I didn't want this fight. I tried as hard as I could not to fight Claire. If I hadn't defended myself, she may have killed me. She wasn't strong enough, but now she knows that. It makes this all the more delicate. Please, let AJ and I handle this... I need you here, keeping Nate safe. I'm not trying to keep you out of the fight, I just don't know what Claire is willing to do.
Keira – What you just said last. You don't know what Claire is willing to do. I can't take that risk! What if she does? What's to stop me from tearing this city, inch by inch and finding her, killing her without a second though? It took me a long time to not wanting to erase a baddie from this planet. Hell, we got the Void for that. But Roxi, if Claire tries it...
Roxi – Just let AJ and I work. She's waiting for me. But her arm... that reaction she had, it's killing her....
Keira – Fine...but if I hear from AJ that something happened to you. I will cripple her.
Roxi – Please... for me...
Keira – Did I just say fine a moment ago?
{Keira tries to say something else, but was cut off by a kiss from Roxi.}
Roxi – I'm a little beat up. Give me a break.
{Keira grabs Roxi's good arm and pretends to attempt to break it.}
Keira – If you insist.
Roxi – Funny.
Keira – Now come on. Hop into my arms and we'll fly back
Roxi – I'm fine... Let's go. Nate's gonna worry.
{The two begin to fly back and the scene fades.}
Well, it’s that time once again. Fresh of winning the La Azteca Rumble and punching my ticket to the front of the line, I would be remiss if I did not defend this Soaring Eagle championship that I love so dearly. This championship has been mine since, well, pretty much the inception of GOL. I have worn it with pride, with honor, and I have left the toughest of acts of follow once I do in facet lose this championship. I have felt nothing but pride and I can only hope I have made GOL proud with my reign as champion.
But, here I am acting like I’ve already lost it. That hasn’t happened. I am still the Soaring Eagle champion, and Chapter 11 will not make that any different. I don’t plan on losing this championship to anyone anytime soon, and that includes my opponent at Chapter 11, HeWhoCorrupts. To say that this match will be a tough test would be both an insult, and understatement. I’m not going to do either of those things. I am well aware of the challenge that awaits. And, I seemingly am already be subjugated to mind games by my opponent. For what reason, I don’t really know. People who have to play mind games apparently need some sort of edge. One would think that a person who is HeWhoCorrupts would not need to resort to mind games in an attempt to break me, or anyone else. I’m walking into a lego deathmatch, and my opponent is showing me pretty twitter pictures, odd shots of himself in blue spandex, and legos. What exactly am I supposed to think here? Should I now believe that heroes are corrupt? Spandex? Legos? I’m very confused about this whole thing. One, spandex can save your life if you treat ‘em right. Two, I don’t really wanna know what my opponent may or may not do with Lego toys, and three, and most importantly, people can indeed be corrupted. But those who push past that, who don’t turn down that path, can rebound, and still accomplish great things.
I’m not a saint by any means. I’ve done some questionable things. I’ve made bad choices. We all have, no one is perfect. I live with regrets and bad choices every single day. That doesn’t mean I don’t believe in the good in people. Mistakes and bad days don’t change us. Memories don’t break us. Everyone, can be an example of good, great, heroic even. It never has taken a cape or tights to make a difference. Just a person willing to act. A person needs only opportunity, and initiative. And that, brings out the best, in people. When we, as people, are at our best, we are incorruptible.
And that’s why drives me. That’s what makes me want to do things like this. Rise to challenges like this. To show people, that something that is trying to corrupt you, is only strong when you give it power. I’ve heard the superhero things before. I’ve heard the whole spiel about how heroes lose, and die. It happens. I happen to have read a comic or two. But it’s only for a fleeting moment. Eventually, they rise like the sun. And if HeWhoCorrupts wishes to knock me down, I’m going to get up. Over, and over, and over. I don’t fold under pressure. I have risen to challenges bigger, stronger, faster, smarter, and the list goes on, and on, and yet, I stand right here. I stand before each and every person, the GOL Soaring Eagle champion. I’ve never been one to brag about my accomplishments, I let them speak for themselves, but I will not let someone cast a shadow of doubt over me, to try and get in my head. I’ve been through that war a time or two as well. If HeWhoCorrupts is thinking these mind games and his sudden re-emergence has done anything other than inconvenience me scrolling through my twitter feed, it hasn’t. I don’t fear corruption, I turn it into motivation, a reason to fight. I didn’t need much of one considering this match is for the Soaring Eagle championship, but when someone is trying to change everything because they simply see things differently, and see the world through pessimistic eyes, it really just makes me sad, and hopeful that someday, they’ll see things in a more positive light.
Because, if you haven’t noticed, and judging by HeWhoCorrupts prior to this week, he hasn’t, I’m a positive person. I try to get along with everyone. And some people simply can’t stand that. But that’s okay, it means they’re human. But if I can make one person smile, or give them a pick me up, with even a hello, it can change things, make people better. That’s what I’m about.
But perhaps I’m jumping the gun on all this. Perhaps this isn’t as simple as black and white. Maybe HeWhoCorrupts isn’t as obvious as “non-descript henchmen wearing all black” Heck, I’ve seen HeWhoCorrupts have fun and laugh and joke in his promos, and he didn’t even do an evil laugh. So maybe there’s something else to this. It’s just simply his twist on things. And that, while a bleak outlook, is still an outlook.
I have tangled with HeWhoCorrupts once, and I came out on top. In fact, ever since then, he’s been gone, laying in the weeds, so to speak, waiting for the perfect time to strike I suppose. But this isn’t that time. No by a long shot. HeWhoCorrupts is not walking into Chapter 11, fresh after having months off, and simply taking this championship from me. No sir… I didn’t win this championship by accident or fluke, and I’m not losing it to either as well. If HeWhoCorrupts wants a match, if he wants a fight, I will give it to him. And it’ll be darn good one too. He, along with everyone else who tries to put me, and those I care about, those who cheer me, and keep me uplifted, and keep me humble and grounded all at the same time, those same people you try to put down? There are consequences for that kind of action. And I am eager to show those people, the error of their ways.
I am, who I am. You may laugh, you may doubt, you may believe yourself better, more prepared, more focused, more driven, but you can, and will be proven wrong. I strive each and every day to get better. Better as a person, a parent, a wrestler, a woman. Because those are those, like HeWhoCorrupts, who will challenge what I say. And that makes me work even harder to prove them wrong. I come in, gladly to the field of battle, to fight, to win, and to leave everything on the battlefield, for those who stand with me. Those who believe. For them, I will fight, and I will win.
Who am I?
I am a champion.
And will see all of you, Sunday, for Chapter 11.
Lego Death match, here I come. [/i]
{The scene opens inside Roxi and Keira’s apartment in Tampa. Baby Nate crawls on the floor with Roxi keeping a close eye on him while Keira finishes cleaning off the dinner table after a nice steak dinner the two had. Nate continues to explore the house given his newfound ability to now crawl without much effort. Roxi has to get out of her chair to follow him as he motors around the floor.}
Roxi – Where are you going?
Keira – Anywhere and everywhere.
{Nate pays them no mind walking towards the kitchen and following Keira as she puts the plates in the sink to wash. Nate crawls around and see the trash can and decides it’s worth investigating. He starts hitting the plastic can and then reaching for the plastic trash back contained within. Roxi spots this and moves in and squats down in front of Nate.}
Roxi – What are you doing? That’s the garbage. You don’t want any of that. It’s yucky.
{Nate then pulls on the plastic anyway.}
Roxi – No. No garbage. No garbage.
{Nate looks more annoyed than anything else as he crawls past Roxi, his efforts to see the garbage thwarted. He crawls into the hallway, making his way to the stairs, which are blocked by a child gate. Nate gets into a position where he is on his knees which both hands touching and shaking the gate.}
Roxi – No stairs. You know that.
{Nate continues to bang on the gate before losing interest and crawling back towards the kitchen looking at Keira, who sees him and smiles.}
Keira – Awww, want Mommy to hold you?
{Keira smiles as she bends down and picks up Nate, holding him}
Roxi – Does mommy Keria got you?
{Nate coos as Keira takes him to the play area}
Keira – Wanna do some sit ups?
{Nate coos in happiness as Keira sets it up as she helps Nate, placing her hand below his head so he won't hurt himself}
Roxi – You can do it.
{Nate begins to, having some trouble, but was slowly able to, Keira making sure he doesn't get hurt}
Roxi – Yay!
{Roxi looked happily but then a look of concern at Keira}
Keira – What's wrong?
Roxi – Should... should he be able to do pull-ups and sit-ups already?
Keira – No...but he's been doing this ever since he saw us do them
Roxi – Still, kind of worries me.
Keira – You think he has our powers?
Roxi – I don't think so, but he's picking stuff up really... really fast.
Keira – He has your brains
{Keira helps Nate up and takes him to his crib}
Keira – But...no 7 month old should be learning this fast....
Roxi – It make me worry. But, he does have a doctors appointment next month so... maybe we'll find out then.
Keira – Regular or Guild Doctor?
{Keira sighs}
Roxi – The normal doctor
{Roxi looks down at Nate}
Keira – You sure?
Roxi – I don't want to take him to the Guild Doctor unless we know for sure, that something is wrong, or he's showing any signs that he's really got any powers. I mean, maybe I'm just being paranoid. He's growing, getting smarter, that's... that's normal, right?
Keira – Yea. He's just growing up, Rox
Roxi – I hope so
Keira – Roxi, you seriously need to stop worrying
Roxi – It's just how I am. You know that.
Keira – And I told you that it's gonna give you grey hairs. I'm not joking about it, either
Roxi – I can't help it.
{Keira places her hands on Roxi's shoulders}
Keira – If Nate does have powers, he will control them. If he doesn't, then it means he's growing up.
Roxi – I know. But... this is our son, and you know it's our first. I wanna get it right is all.
Keira – We will. Then when it's time...we'll go for Baby Number 2
{Nate begins to squeal happily in his crib.}
Roxi – Excuse me? We're having a conversation here!
{Keira giggles}
{Roxi picks up Nate and carries him back to the living room and let's him down where he knocks over some building blocks and continues on towards the closet. He pushes on it, slowly opens it a crack, and Roxi can see her costume peaking through the clothing. She sighs and closes the cloest before picking Nate back up and sitting down with him to give him his bottle.}
Roxi – Alright, that's about enough out of you. It's time for bed.
Keira – Roxi...why is the closet being cracked open?
Roxi – Because a little boy decided he needed to open it. I closed it back.
Keira – He didn't see...
{Keira points to the costumes}
Keira – ...Did he?
Roxi – I don't think so. He barely saw inside
Keira – Good
{Roxi relaxes, sitting back and humming a tune to Nate as his eyes grow heavy.}
Roxi – How were things with your sister
Keira – Tiring! With Maria trying to figure out what to wear for Keri's wedding and Keri freaking out over her wedding coming soon.....I bought Hot Wheels just to calm me down
Roxi – Keri and Angelica finally putting it together, huh?
Keira – With Kat's help.
Roxi – Well, that's another wedding we're taking part in? Or are we just spectators?
Keira – Well, I am one of the bridesmaids. I am her sister, duh!
Roxi – I didn't know! I figured maybe she'd use other friends.
Keira – I know. But soon, she'll be married. That should be the last in our extended family to be married. Not like Nicole will get married anytime soon
Roxi – I doubt it, she's too busy traveling the world
{Keira smiles as she kisses Roxi}
Keira – I think you need to put Nate in his crib
{Roxi looks down as Nate's eyes are closed and he's fast asleep}
Keira – See?
Roxi – Yeah.
Keira – Go put him to bed
{Roxi rocks with Nate a little more, before taking the bottle out of his mouth and then carrying him to his crib to put him to bed. She gently covers him with his blanket and turns on the baby monitor before heading back to Keira.}
Keira – Sooo, ready for your match?
Roxi – Yeah, I think so. After winning the rumble I just have to get through this hurdle. And it's probably my toughest to date.
Keira – Oh, is that right?
Roxi – Well, a guy by the name of He Who Corrupts.
Keira – You can take him.
Roxi – I hope so.
Keira – What’s the matter, not confident?
Roxi – I… I am confident I can win. I know I can win, but outside of one appearance in GOL, during the Christmas show, this guy is a total unknown to me. I don’t know what to expect.
Keira – I’m sure you’ll figure it out. You haven’t been Soaring Eagle champion for all this time for no reason.
Roxi – Yeah, I know.
Keira – And by the way, I'm your toughest test ever.
Roxi – Well, there's only one Keira. And thank goodness for that.
{Keira giggles}
Keira – Maybe we should work on Baby Number 2, then
Roxi – No, not yet. This one isn't even a year old yet!
Keira – Ok, got any better ideas?
{Keira says, softly massaging Roxi's shoulders, hinting}
Keira – Cause I got a few....
{Roxi smiles, shakes her head, and walks past Keira towards the closet.}
Roxi – Actually, I have an idea of my own
Keira – Which is?
{Roxi carefully opens the closet and pulls out her costume.}
Roxi – It's been a long time...
Keira – It has...but who'll take care of Nate while we're out?
{Roxi looks at Keira.}
Keira – We can get Christine to come over. She's one of the few that knows our secret
Roxi – No... not us... Just me. Just a patrol. I shouldn't be gone long. Next time, you can take it.
Keira – Poo.
Roxi – You know we can't leave Nate here unattended, but if the problem ever comes up where it requires us both, Chris knows, but we can't put her in too much trouble with Sasha pregnant.
Keira – I know. Plus, I did get some action while I was up north. Damn...he tried to fist me all...night...long
{Keira giggles, knowing Roxi knew that Keira meant fighting crime}
{Roxi looks at Keira for a second and then shook her head.}
Roxi – Everything is sex with you.
Keira – It was a fight at a bank. Nothing about sex
{Keira sighs}
Keira – Which reminds me. I need to resew my costume as well
{Keira goes to her bag and pulls out her costume, showing a cut that was done by a sword}
Keira – Don't ask what he tried to do.
Roxi – Another story for another day.
Keira – Be careful, Roxi
Roxi – It's been quiet. If anything happens, I'll let you know. Chris has a key if you need to call her.
Keira – Ok
{Keira kisses Roxi}
Keira – Kick ass, LB
Roxi – I will. I'll be back soon. I promise.
Keira – Ok, baby
{Roxi took her costume towards the room, but turned back to Keira.}
Roxi – I love you.
Keira – I love you too
{Roxi winked and entered the spare room and changed into her costume before heading off on a patrol.}
{Roxi takes flight, flying around the city seemingly at peace with everything. She peers down looking over the place she protects. There are no sirens to be heard, nothing appears out of the ordinary. She flies down to a nearby bridge peering out into the ocean, and back into the city where there are busy streets and the night sky back lit by all the bright colors of downtown.}
Roxi – Beautiful.
{Roxi takes off again, flying a comfortable distance above ground and carefully scanning around for anything of note. Finally, flying over the not-so-well-lit more rural area, she spots a glimmering light coming from on parking lot. She gets closer and it appears abandoned, but there are cars in the shape of an “X” that are on fire. Looking to see if this is some kind of car graveyard and finding only the five cars as the only vehicles in sight, she flies down for closer look. She carefully lands and looks around.}
Roxi – Hello? Hello?!
{There is no response, the area appears to have no one around. She looks up at what used to be a local grocery store, which is now empty with the windows boarded up. She looks around trying to find some way to put the cars out. She peers closely at the cars, as to not get burned and notices that the cars appear to have been burning for some time. She looks and sees no one in any of the vehicles, before continuing to find something to put the fires out.}
Roxi – There must be something around here…
Voice – I was wondering when you were going to show up!
{Roxi looked around, confused trying to locate the source of the voice. She looks up on top of the roof of the abandoned store to see who it is.}
Voice – Do you know how long I’ve waited for you?
Roxi – Who are you?!
{Roxi is then blinded at the lights in the parking lot still have power, and they are turned on. Roxi backs away covering her eyes until they adjust.}
Voice – Don’t tell me you forgot about me…
{Roxi’s eyes adjust as the figure jumps down off the roof, landing and marching into the light.}
Roxi – Claire…
Claire – Good. You do remember Rox.
Roxi – Claire, what are you doing?
Claire – I’ve been waiting here. For you.
Roxi – All this time?
Claire – I lit these cars on fire months ago. The rain would put them out, I’d relight them, keep them burning for days. I’d put them out and relight them. In hopes, that you would see them.
Roxi – What do you want?
Claire – You. Dead.
Roxi – Claire… it doesn’t have to be this way.
Claire – OF COURSE IT DOES!
{Claire shouts at the top of her lungs and starts moving in Roxi’s direction.}
Roxi – No.
Claire – You left me to die.
Roxi – I tried to save you. I never wanted you to be part of this! You know that! You got yourself involved!
{Claire stops, balling up her fists in anger.}
Claire – YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO BE THE HERO! SAVE EVERYONE! WHY DIDN’T YOU SAVE ME?!
Roxi – ...
Claire – I saved your miserable life Roxi. If it wasn’t for me, Harold Peterson would have killed you.
Roxi – Claire… I tried… I wanted to go back for you. I WANTED TO SAVE YOU!
Claire – And yet… you didn’t.
Roxi – YOU TOLD ME TO LEAVE!
Claire – And you did… You left. You started all this.
Roxi – I didn’t start anything! I spent months trying to find you. I spent every waking moment I could trying to figure out if you were alive or dead! I never gave up trying to find you.
Claire – So why did I, have to find you?! Where was Roxi Johnson when I needed her most?! Going on dates! Saving other people! Getting married!
Roxi – No… no one could find you. I exhausted every possible resource I could to try and find you.
Claire – And then…
{Claire kicks a car door and it falls off the car itself on to the ground.}
Claire – You gave up, moved on.
Roxi – I never gave up on you Claire. I’m still not giving up on you now…
{Claire begins to chuckle touching her head.}
Claire – You think a speech will stop anything now? I have waited to kill you for a long time. I had to buy time, make sure, because you damn well will throw your own life away, I had to make sure you didn’t get yourself killed. Because no one is going to kill you, except me.
Roxi – Claire we don’t have to do this…
Claire – I ALREADY TOLD YOU WE DO! IT’S DESTINY! PRE-DETERMINED!
Roxi – You’re not well. Let me help you.
{Claire stares at Roxi shaking her head.}
Claire – It’s too late for that now. It has to end one way. One of us, has to die.
Roxi – No, this is madness! I don’t want to fight you!
Claire – Why? Scared you’re going to hurt me with your powers?
Roxi – ...
Claire – I’m not stupid. I saw you fight that had with the bitch with the mask, remember. Saved you… AGAIN. I could have killed you right then and there!
Roxi – But you didn’t. Because you… deep down inside… you’re my friend Claire. The friend I went through 5th grade through freaking high school with! My friend! And I want to help you!
Claire – Like you did before? No thanks. I learned from Harold how to survive. Amass an army. But, as the saying goes, if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself.
Roxi – Claire… don’t…
Claire – Save the begging for later. And while you have your powers. I have my own secret weapon.
{Claire pulls a syringe out of her jacket, the needle point capped.}
Claire – They don’t make this stuff anymore. Your powers are far beyond that of a normal person. And honestly, I don’t even think me injecting this will even begin to make your strength… But how many vials of this do you think will match it? I’m curious.
{Roxi’s eyes widen under her mask as she figures out what Claire is about to do.}
Roxi – Don’t! It’s suicide!
Claire – One of us has to go Roxi. There is no other way.
{Claire bites the cap off the needle point and jams the syringe into her neck. Her muscles bulge out slightly, her own strength, dexterity, agility and other physical attributes pushed to a new level.}
Roxi – Claire…
Claire – FIGHT ME!
{Roxi stands, ready to fight for a moment, and then drops her hands.}
Roxi – No.
{Roxi turns getting ready to walk away. Claire has an incredulous look on her face as she shouts at Roxi.}
Claire – THEN YOU BETTER DEFEND YOURSELF!
{Claire leaps with all her fury and rage as Roxi spins and covers herself up as she is tackled to the ground. There are rapid fire punches coming her way but Roxi has them all pretty much blocked. Claire starts swinging wildly trying to get a blow to land and causes Roxi to flip her off of her to get back up. Before Roxi is even fully standing, Claire tackles her into one of the burning cars. Claire tries to muscle Roxi’s face towards the fire, but Roxi overpowers her and pushes her back. Claire instantly is right back in control, kneeing Roxi in the ribs and driving the point of her elbow is Roxi’s spine, before Roxi dodges an attack with Claire’s knee. Claire closes the distance in a heartbeat trying with everything to hit Roxi who is dodging to keep Claire away, before Roxi finally kicks Claire in the chest and sends her back. Claire lands on her back, but rolls to a kneeling position and quickly is back up, kicking one of the burning cars causing the debris to fly everywhere and the car to physically uplift and fall back down.}
Claire – YOU’RE NOT TAKING THIS SERIOUSLY!
Roxi – I don’t want to fight you, Claire! Get it through your head!
{Claire angrily pounds the car before turning back and grabbing another syringe from her belt.}
Claire – You… you’re toying with me! That syringe obviously wasn’t on your level. Let’s try two!
Roxi – No!
{Claire jams the syringe in her neck as her body again bulges out, increasing the her muscle mass to a dangerous level.}
Claire – Round two!
{Claire yanks a car door off the car and hurls it in Roxi’s direction, which Roxi avoids, but has no time to avoid a punch to the face as Claire clears several feet in milliseconds. Roxi flies back and lands on the pavement, shaking out the cobwebs as Claire leaps through the air and tries to land on her, but Roxi rolls away and puts her arms up to block the even faster swarm of punches that Claire throws with reckless abandon. Claire then kicks Roxi in the knee and begins to slam her head back into the pavement before trying to straight out strangle Roxi with a chokehold. Roxi gets her arms in between Claire’s shoulder, gripping her wrists and headbutting Claire in nose to move her back. Roxi rolls back up and sees Claire holding her nose before wiping the blood away on her jacket sleeve, before tossing her jacket aside and smiling like deranged lunatic.}
Claire – That’s more like it.
{Claire again launches herself into the air to clear the distance between herself and Roxi, throwing more wild punches as she gets near, backing Roxi up against another SUV and punching through the side windshield with ease, and not breaking stride nor momentum as Roxi backs up slowly, trying to keep her power in check, knowing full well that any observation by Claire will result in another injection. Also if nothing else, this made Claire waste energy, and she would tire out trying so hard. Claire didn’t look tired at all to Roxi, causing Roxi to second guess her rope-a-dope strategy.
Roxi dodged Claire’s punch, but got caught with a side kick in the ribs, causing her to stumble back, then tackled and picked up several feet into the air with Claire grabbing her waist and slamming her hard onto the roof of one of the cars. Roxi groaned in pain as now more blows were getting through as Roxi began to realize she had to use at least some of her power, otherwise Claire would almost surely beat her to death if she tried. Claire began raining down elbows and fists onto top of the car. Roxi looked and realized there was a sun roof on this car. She flared up, striking Claire across the face, and then pulling her through the cracked sunroof glass and into the car.
Roxi rolled off the roof, but Claire kicked the rear passenger door out and it hit Roxi in the back. Claire stepped out, even more furious.}
Claire – You…. Are still… toying with me.
Roxi – Claire… listen…
Claire – All you do is talk! I felt that surge of energy on the car… You’re not even close to fighting me…. Fine…
{Claire takes out a third syringe and plunges it into her neck once again. Her body and muscles bulge wildly and she begins to more or less growl at Roxi, seemingly becoming like a feral animal. Roxi scrambles to create distance and is finally forced to start using her power she has been trying not to use in order to defend herself. But before anything can happen, once Claire settles down, her arm begins an rapid and freakish amount of atrophy. Roxi and Claire can both physically see the muscle shrink as Claire howls in pain. She backs away and reaches into her pants and pulls out some kind of remote device and pushes it before Roxi gets back up and starts advancing towards her.}
Roxi – Claire?
Claire – GET AWAY!
{Claire’s voice is almost inhuman as she staggers back.}
Roxi – Claire! Let help you!
{Roxi keeps advancing towards Claire, arms out, trying to get close enough to actually see what in the world is happening to Claire. Before she can get close enough a helicopter is heard coming from the distance. It zeroes in on the area and lands a safe distance from the parking lot. Roxi is distracted and Claire shoulder charges her with her good arm into another car, however, Claire accidently stabs herself on a jagged hood ornament, dripping blood but not even noticing as she scurries to the helicopter and it takes off with Roxi looking up at it.
She flies directly up and towards the door where Claire is sitting covered up by her henchmen as one of them starts firing bullets at her. Roxi dodges and flies out of view but not before planting a tracking device on the chopper itself, before allowing it to fly away.
Roxi flies back down and looks around, grabbing Claire’s jacket she left behind and begins wiping up the blood from Claire on the cars. She takes a moment to let her healing kick in before flying off to an unknown location.}
{Roxi lands in a quiet neighborhood and walks up to a large country-style house. She walks up the porch steps and rings the doorbell. There is no movement inside, as Roxi waits a few moments before ringing it again. Finally the door opens and Amy Jo Smyth answers the door, her pistol in her hand and aimed for a moment at Roxi before she realizes who it is. She stares at Roxi for a few seconds rubbing the sleep out of her eyes and her anger rising.}
AJS – What the hot fuck are you doing here?! It’s two in the dang morning.
Roxi – I need your help.
{Before Smyth says anything else, she notices Roxi’s torn up costume and patches of dried blood.}
AJS – Come on in...
{Smyth leads Roxi to the kitchen where she turns on the lights and begins to make coffee. After making herself a cup, along with Roxi, the two sit down at the table.}
AJS – So, you wanna explain why you’re visiting, in costume, with a bloody jacket in your hand? Or am I supposed to figure that out too?
Roxi – I said I needed your help. I need the blood from this jacket analyzed.
{Smyth takes a look at the jacket and takes it away from Roxi and holds it out.}
AJS – Friend of yours?
Roxi – Yes… I mean… No… I mean… I don’t know anymore.
{Roxi slowly peels off her mask and lets out a sigh.}
Roxi – Long story short, my friend from elementary school got caught up in what I do. She saved my life from the guy who stole this… warrior serum. I was more or less dead if she didn’t interfere. And the building caught on fire and… She… didn’t make it out.
AJS – So this is your dead friends blood?
Roxi – Yes… and no. She didn’t die. Somehow, I can only imagine using the warrior serum she survived. She may have perfected it. She was gone for… years. She came back, swore revenge, she took up my identity when I got suspended, threatened my family. And then… she saved my life, on a couple other occasions before tonight.
AJS – How could anybody hate you?
Roxi – She blames me… for not saving her. I think Harold Peterson filled her mind with that kind of rhetoric. Before she killed him.
AJS – Before or after, she saved your life again?
Roxi – Before. She’s been planning this for a long time. And tonight, she tried to kill me again.
AJS – Well, seeing as you’re here, and she’s not, I’m guessing that didn’t happen.
{Smyth takes a sip of her coffee and then turns and stares at Roxi.}
AJS – You didn’t?
Roxi – No… Nno.. I… I mean.. I don’t know. That warrior serum doubles, even may triple a person’s strength, speed, perception, everything, you name it. Heightened senses, the whole nine yards.
AJS – And I’m guessing you have super-powered superfight?
Roxi – Not willingly. The worst part is, she’s destroying herself to get to me.
AJS – How?
Roxi – She’s taking the warrior serum. A lot.
AJS – That’s gonna be a fucking problem.
Roxi – I had to take it before, and even in those moments, I felt things slip. It was only temporary, but it was still there. And that, was a measured dose. There’s no telling how long she’s been taking the serum…
AJS – And like every junkie, they need a stronger hit. If what you’re saying is true, then she may not even properly measuring the stuff anymore.
Roxi – Tonight… she took three hits… She’s killing herself to get to me. And… it’s my fault.
AJS – You can’t possibly blame yourself…
Roxi – AJ, You were a cop, you know, I know, every person who takes the risk knows, you can’t save everyone, but it never stops us from trying.
AJS – This isn’t your fault. It’s not something you planned. This woman is clearly a fucking psycho and you need to stay as far away from her as possible. Give me a description of her, we’ll get her locked up, put away so she can’t get to you, and get her the help she needs.
Roxi – No AJ, it is my fault. She didn’t make it because I couldn’t save her then. Please… just… analyze the blood, and hopefully we can find something to go on.
{Roxi stands preparing to leave. Smyth stops her and places a hand on her shoulder to keep her there.}
AJS – I’ll do this, but you need to stop blaming yourself. And torturing yourself. Seriously. Why… why do you even want the blood analyzed, you seem to know what’s going on anyway…
Roxi – Because I want to believe that deep down, my friend is still there, one who’s mind isn’t corrupted by this whole thing.
{Roxi turns again to leave, but Smyth stops her again.}
AJS – Let me… at least patch you up. Keira will flip out if she sees your costume torn. I have a sewing kit in the bathroom.
Roxi – Allison’s probably pissed enough as it is…
AJS – A green clad red-head knocking on our door at 2am? Yeah, I might be dead. But let’s fix you up first.
{Smyth steps away to retrieve the sewing kit, with Smyth’s cat standing in front of her on the floor.}
AJS – Move you stupid cat!
{The cat stands her and then when it feels like it, it moves away and AJ goes and grabs the sewing kit, then takes Roxi into another bedroom to fix the holes and tears in her costume.}
{Roxi slowly re-enters the house and tries to creep towards the bedroom, only to see Keira sitting down and rocking with the sleeping Nate.}
Keira – Where have you been? It's 2:30...
Roxi – Sorry. Took a little longer than I thought. Just... sweeping and exploring and stuff.
Keira – Ok...
Roxi – But, I'm back. I'm sorry I made you worry.
{Keira smiles, but then notices some blood coming from her boot.}
Keira – Just...sweeping and exploring?
{Roxi looks down and shrugs.}
{Keira goes and puts Nate back in his crib. She then goes to Roxi, a bit mad.}
Keira – What...happened?
Roxi – It was.... a minor thing, just a druggie in an alley. Nothing I couldn't handle.
{Keira smiles a bit as she hugs Roxi, but she could hear some painful moaning.}
Keira – What the...
Roxi – He got a lucky shot in. I'll be fine in a bit.
Keira – Clothes off....
{Roxi lifts her shirt and a deep bruise is seen from Claire's combat boot, and deep cuts from crashing through a windshield hours before.}
Keira – A druggie? Really? What happened!?
{Roxi sighs and sits down gingerly as she heals.}
Roxi – It was Claire...
{Keira lowers her head and shakes it. She turns and quickly goes to the closet.}
Keira – That settles it
{Keira comes out, wearing her Lady Kat costume and adjusts her mask.}
Roxi – No... No, it's... It's not that simple
Keira – She hurt you! I should have been with you. Ever since the Fake Bedlam incident. She's been wanting to kill you. SHE CAME CLOSE THIS TIME!
Roxi – No. Claire... Something is wrong with Claire.
Keira – Tell it to me after I cripple her!
{Keira walks out and begins to fly off.}
Roxi – Keira don't!
{Roxi slowly chases after Claire to grab her shoulder, Keira was already a few feet away, trying to sense Claire.}
Roxi – Keira... please.. .come back inside
{Roxi slowly and gingerly tries to keep pace with Keira]
Keira – No, you go back, heal and take care of Nate. This ends tonight!
Roxi – No... please, come back inside, There's more to this than that. Please...
{Keira flies off, far away from Roxi's reach.}
Roxi – I'M ALREADY TRACKING HER!
{Keira stops as she flies back to Roxi.}
Keira – What?
Roxi – I put a tracking device on her helicopter. I had to see AJ, she's analyzing some blood. Claire's having some kind of reaction to taking the Warrior serum. She knows about our powers, and every time I tried to use my strength, she took another dose. She's killing herself to match our strength level. I can't... I can't let her continue on this path. You would only escalate it...
Keira – I wouldn't. I'd just cripple the bitch. She's not as strong as I am. You and I know it!
Roxi – That's the point. She's going to keep dosing herself to try and match it. She'll kill herself! I can't allow that to happen. Despite it all... it's still my friend in there... somewhere.
Keira – So she pretty much attacked you to get to me?
Roxi – She wants to fight me. She wants to kill me. It's my fight.
Keira – No. It's OUR fight. Roxi, it's always been our fight! I will not let Nate grow up without a mom!
{Keira, now showing a rage that Roxi gets sometimes when Keira had got to that point with Roxi}
Keira – Roxi, I love you. I love you with all of my heart. But you know how I feel when you fight alone.
{Keira softly grabs Roxi's hand, using her thumb to rub the back of Roxi's hand.}
Keira – Baby, alot has changed since we first fought Claire. I don't want to lose you.
Roxi – Keira... I didn't want this fight. I tried as hard as I could not to fight Claire. If I hadn't defended myself, she may have killed me. She wasn't strong enough, but now she knows that. It makes this all the more delicate. Please, let AJ and I handle this... I need you here, keeping Nate safe. I'm not trying to keep you out of the fight, I just don't know what Claire is willing to do.
Keira – What you just said last. You don't know what Claire is willing to do. I can't take that risk! What if she does? What's to stop me from tearing this city, inch by inch and finding her, killing her without a second though? It took me a long time to not wanting to erase a baddie from this planet. Hell, we got the Void for that. But Roxi, if Claire tries it...
Roxi – Just let AJ and I work. She's waiting for me. But her arm... that reaction she had, it's killing her....
Keira – Fine...but if I hear from AJ that something happened to you. I will cripple her.
Roxi – Please... for me...
Keira – Did I just say fine a moment ago?
{Keira tries to say something else, but was cut off by a kiss from Roxi.}
Roxi – I'm a little beat up. Give me a break.
{Keira grabs Roxi's good arm and pretends to attempt to break it.}
Keira – If you insist.
Roxi – Funny.
Keira – Now come on. Hop into my arms and we'll fly back
Roxi – I'm fine... Let's go. Nate's gonna worry.
{The two begin to fly back and the scene fades.}