Post by gvb on Dec 17, 2022 20:02:38 GMT -6
3x10 GET BACK
The Courtyard
December 13th, 2022
2:36 PM
There wasn’t a single corner of this place that didn’t bring back a memory. Trinity Thompson had only been back a couple of hours but the nostalgia was in full effect already. The chats with the staff, Laura’s vanilla cake (best of the best, if you asked her), the gym where her sister Tiff taught her the secrets of her Death Kick…
But there was one place she held the dearest, the bench right outside the door on the western side of the building, the place where she first found the courage to talk to her sister Tiff. Of course back then the former Cloud Gate champion wasn’t aware of their kinship and only saw Trinity as one of the students, but if she had to pinpoint a starting point of their relationship, it had to be this one.
She had half an hour before the first “lesson” with the students, and she decided to spend it here, enjoying the pale Chicago sun while smoking a cigarette and taking a trip down memory lane. A short one, as it was almost immediately interrupted by Reign Reyes coming to greet her. Reign swooped in on Trinity, arms wide open, ready to go in for a hug… only she stopped short and wrinkled her nose as her eyes fell to the cigarette.
Reign Reyes:
Wow. You know that’s bad for you, right? Not to mention SO old fashioned. Vaping’s all the rage now. Get with the times, old lady.
Reign grinned, hopeful that the cigarette wouldn’t end up being extinguished on her forehead. Trinity chuckled, reaching inside her pocket to grab a small ashtray pouch, using it to put out the cigarette.
Trinity Thompson:
Yeah, it’s a bad habit I’m trying to quit. In my defense, I’m smoking a lot less now than when I was here two years ago… Anyway, I’m so happy to finally meet you!
Now that the cigarette was no longer in the way, Trinity leaned forward and hugged Reyes.
Trinity Thompson:
How are you doing? The past couple of weeks have been pretty rough…
Reign melted into that hug and held on like she never wanted to let go, it was as if she were finally exhaling for the first time in over a month. In fact she didn’t let go even while she responded.
Reign Reyes:
I’m better now. I cleared things up with Ava. We’re good again. Sammy never held it against me, so that was a huge relief. I just need to refocus on what’s important now I guess.
Trinity Thompson:
So, the #ReyVa dream is still alive, huh?
Trinity answered jokingly, causing them both to share a laugh. Finally, she pulled back from the warm hug, although she kept her hand on Reyes’ shoulder.
Trinity Thompson:
What about your cultist friend? Did she bother you again?
Reign scowled at the mention of Saoirse Tyrell but she drew a deep breath and forced a bit of a smile.
Reign Reyes:
She hasn’t. Things have been eerily quiet when it comes to us. I mean they made their threats, told me that it’s far from over but it’s whatever. She has to worry about CJ and Ava before she needs to even think about me. I’m done fighting her in the halls and all that shit. At least for now. Unless she does something stupid to one of my friends. Then it’ll be on and I won’t care if I get kicked out.
Trinity just looked at her intensely, as if she was trying to look past the surface. As someone who had dealt with the Band Of Nine in the past, Trinity knew how hard it was to really move on.
Trinity Thompson:
Can I?
She asked Reyes in a soft tone. Before Reign could answer, probably before she could even figure out what it was all about, Thompson raised the student’s arm and, with her free hand, rolled up the sleeve, exposing the now almost fully healed cut Nine left on her arm after attempting at carving her mark.
Trinity Thompson:
Could’ve been a lot worse…
Reign scowled at the fading mark on her arm before nodding towards Trinity.
Reign Reyes:
Like yours?
Trinity nodded, showing her scarred arm to Reign, the IX mark standing out as a constant reminder of her failure to stop the New Problem.
Trinity Thompson:
Like mine. I’m glad Alessio saved you the experience. Wounds heal quickly, but the emotional scars… They last a lot longer.
Of course that was only one of the mementos of her fights against the cult. Reign frowned while thinking back on the Anniversary show.
Reign Reyes:
Yeah, Alessio saved me but look what happened to him and his wife in the end.
She stared off into space for a moment before locking eyes with Trinity.
Reign Reyes:
Is this fight with them even worth it? I mean what do they really want? Maybe we should just leave it alone and go on with our careers.
Trinity Thompson:
That’s not a bad idea at all…
Trinity replied with a half smile.
Trinity Thompson:
I’m trying, I’ve been trying to move on for a few months now. But just when I thought I had left them all behind… They hurt Alessio, and it’s all my fault. No matter how much I try to move away from this shit, I’m in too deep. But you can still save yourself, you can still move on and let these nutcases move on their next target.
Reign sounded almost exacerbated when she responded.
Reign Reyes:
Which will likely be CJ. Why CJ? Because Ava can’t take the match. Why can’t Ava take the match? Because of me. So much like you it seems like I’m in too deep too. I can’t turn my back. I can’t pretend they’re not there if it’s my friends they’re fucking with. I can beat her, Trinity. I know I can. I took a knife to a gunfight last time. I let my grandfather get in my head. But next time… if there is a next time… Saoirse won’t be so lucky. The two people who raised me are two of the most merciless people in this business. It’s time I embrace my roots and stop straddling the line.
She wanted to say something, especially about one of the people she was referring to: Julian Savell. But despite her issues with that family, she could see Reign’s point. She made the same mistake once, trying to play by the rules against Nine and the outcome was catastrophic. She sighed, wrapping her arms around Reyes one more time.
Trinity Thompson:
Be careful, okay? Don’t make the mistake I did and think you can do this alone. And again, be careful. Too many people got hurt because I failed to stop her, I don’t want you or any of your friends to join the list. I couldn’t forgive myself..
Reign smirked a bit, almost knowingly.
Reign Reyes:
I won’t be alone…
Reign raised her arm and pressed what was left of her cut against the scar on Trinity’s arm.
Reign Reyes:
I’ve got you. We’re like trauma sisters or something.
Reign glanced down at her phone and quickly gave Trinity one last hug.
Reign Reyes:
Wooops! Gotta run! I’m late for class!!
With that Reign hightailed it away, leaving Trinity to dwell on their exchange.
The Courtyard
December 14th, 2022
7:03 PM
The shot comes to life as we see the Gold Star, Saoirse Tyrell with her back to the camera, standing at the gate to The Academy in a nondescript corner of the grounds. As the camera moves across slightly, we’re able to see and hear just who Saoirse was talking to - Nine van der Hoek herself! The Leader spoke quietly and calmly, and it’s clear this was the tailend of the conversation.
Nine van der Hoek:
You see how they’ve tried to break you, and yet you have dominated. This is why I made this decision - for these reasons. Better to flourish here than languish there.
Saoirse didn’t seem to quite like what she was hearing, but nodded nonetheless, eternally loyal to her.
Saoirse Tyrell:
Yes, my Leader. I understand. You’ve already taught me so much. I just…I can help you, there.
Nine van der Hoek:
And you will, Saoirse. In good time.
Nine flashed the hint of a grin, completely juxtaposed in nature, warm, yet unsettlingly cold.
Nine van der Hoek:
Weave yourself into their fabric. Become a name here in your own right, not just in mine. Your mask is buried beneath the sand, let them see your face now.
The words seemed to resonate with Tyrell, who began to nod again, a look of determination and drive on her face now. As she did, Nine spoke again, a quick farewell before she disappeared into the night much as she appeared.
Nine van der Hoek:
I must go. Make me proud, earn your name.
Saoirse took a step closer to the gate, watching The Leader disappear before…
Trinity Thompson:
Who are you talking with, weirdo?
The voice of the former Academy Student startled the Gold Star. How long had she been there? How much did she pick up from their conversation? The guest host for the week kept walking toward her.
Trinity Thompson:
I know who you are, Saoirse. I remember your voice and I would recognize your accent among millions…
The two got very close now, Thompson almost getting in the face of the Gold Star.
Trinity Thompson:
Not gonna lie tho, you looked a lot better with that stupid gold mask on.
A slight smile crept across the face of the Irishwoman, Trinity clearly referencing her time as a ‘cultist’. Saoirse adjusted the Gold Star on her shoulder deliberately, drawing attention to the belt.
Saoirse Tyrell:
I wear the gold on my shoulder now, Trinity.
Trinity Thompson:
And the black robe on your skin, I see.
She replied sarcastically, referring to the tattoos covering her body.
Trinity Thompson:
Band of Nine for life, right? I don’t get it, why sacrifice your life to them? You’re young, talented. You have a future, and this, the Academy… It’s your chance to become your own woman and not just a pawn in someone else’s game.
Saoirse narrowed her eyes at Trinity - the longtime rival of Nine van der Hoek, and the woman who many may consider the first victim of Nine’s streak of terror.
Saoirse Tyrell:
Why do you see it as sacrifice? I have become something more. I’m not just Saoirse, I am everyone. There is power in numbers, and power in her knowledge.
She tilted her head slightly as she looked at Thompson, that hint of a smile remaining on her face.
Saoirse Tyrell:
You’re more alike than you think, you know.
The XIX World champion let out an audible laugh, shaking her head.
Trinity Thompson:
I hope you’re not talking about your leader, I might get offended. I ain’t nothing like her, I think I proved that time and time again. I don’t hurt people for the hell of it, I never tried to end anyone’s career and sure as hell I don’t go around carving my name into people’s arms.
She crossed her arms in front of her chest and began to tap her foot.
Trinity Thompson:
I want to humor you though, so… Go ahead
Saoirse Tyrell:
Well…
She began, the wind beginning to howl in the distance.
Saoirse Tyrell:
For one, she just told me the same thing, about thirty seconds before you interrupted me. To become my own woman here. I am no ordinary follower. She sees it, you see it - everyone who’s laid eyes on me, whether they’d like to admit it or not, can see it.
The Gold Star stared confidently forward towards Trinity, her knuckles growing white as she gripped her championship. Her eyes drifted down slightly, away from Thompson’s eyes.
Saoirse Tyrell:
Show me your mark. I want to see it. You haven’t covered it up yet, have you?
Thompson clenched her fists, staring back at Tyrell with a look of intensity. She seemed to relax rather quickly though, retaking control of her emotions that, for a brief moment, appeared to be ready to take over. Slowly, she rolled up her sleeve, revealing the mark on her right forearm. A gesture she had done the day before with Reign, even though the circumstances were very different.
Trinity Thompson:
Not yet, but I’m planning to add another X right here. Make it XIX, like the company I was able to thrive in once I left your psycho leader in the rear view mirror. So give it a good look, take a picture if you want. Because soon enough it’ll be gone.
A grin crept across Saoirse Tyrell’s face as her eyes caught a glimpse of the scarred forearm, her leader’s symbol carved into Trinity Thompson’s skin. Saoirse’s face was one of genuine, unbridled joy, uncomfortably so. Her eyes kept darting from the scar tissue to Trinity’s eyes, before she finally spoke.
Saoirse Tyrell:
Yes, you left us. You left the fight. How many more had to get hurt because you couldn’t finish it? How many more will? You know Nine won’t rest until Reign is marked. Your care over her has only hardened my Leader’s resolve. I’m glad you’re thriving, though. Soon enough the dam will burst and the river of blood will flow. You are going to drown.
Her words seemed to cut deep, piercing through the young woman’s armor and hitting her where it hurt the most. In a blink of an eye, she dashed forward, pressing her scarred forearm against the Irishwoman’s neck and pinning her against the steel fence delimiting the Academy.
Trinity Thompson:
Forget about her, you hear me? Nine already hurt too many people I care about, Tiana, my sister, Alessio… Stay the fuck away from Reign.
She applied more pressure against the Gold Star’s throat. Surprisingly, Saoirse didn’t react, staring back at Thompson with the same, unchanged expression as before. Her breath is somewhat laboured, quiet wheezes coming before she can speak.
Saoirse Tyrell:
You’re much too late, hero. The wheels are turning…
Trinity gnashed her teeth, growling in the Gold Star’s face.
Trinity Thompson:
You better stop them then. Because I swear on everything that’s holy, you don’t want me to be the one to put a spoke in your wheel, you hear me?
The tension was at an all time high, Tyrell’s self-control was really being tested here. The threat Helena made last week, to personally kick out Saoirse of the Academy should she get involved in another fight, was likely the only thing holding her back from fighting Thompson. Being an avid fan of the show that launched her into stardom, Trinity was definitely aware of the fact, and she seemed to be taunting Saoirse, trying to push her over the edge.
Helena Noir:
I don’t think this is what Gian meant when he said you were the right person to give the students that little nudge to push over their limits, miss Thompson. And I’m sure when he said that you speak their language, he didn’t mean the language of violence.
When the former MWE Intercontinental champion stepped into the scene, Thompson immediately took a step back, letting Saoirse go.
Trinity Thompson:
I think it’s all a huge misunderstanding, Helena. Saoirse wanted to see my tattoo, I was just showing her up close.
Trinity replied, flashing the mark to Helena before covering it.
Trinity Thompson:
We’re good now, see you tomorrow in class, Saoirse.
With the fakest of smiles printed on her face, Trinity turned around and walked back inside the Academy. Helena turned toward her students, nodding her head in her direction. She didn’t say a word, she didn’t ask if she was okay nor she told her she was proud of her not reacting to the taunts. She didn’t need to, not to Tyrell. A glance was all it took. Silently, Saoirse picked up her Gold Star which she dropped to the ground in the scuffle, and followed Helena inside.
The Lunch Room
December 15th, 2022
1:01 PM
Just like any other day, Arina picked up her lunch and sat all by herself at the farthest table. What started as a need after The Rizz published that clip showing a supposedly private meeting between herself and the Principal, Gianluigi Vaccaro had now become routine. It used to hurt at first, not being able to bond with the rest of the students. But she came to accept it, embracing her new status of loner.
The first snow of the season was falling outside, another thing that reminded her of home, adding to the already gloomy mood. She let out a sigh as she sat down in front of her hot veggie soup. It was nothing like the one her mother made, but she couldn’t fault Laura for trying. The World’s Most Famous Kitchen Lady was such a sweetheart for preparing designated menus to accommodate Arina’s diet needs.
She picked up the phone and placed it on the table, scrolling through the news and the messages received on Telegram as she savored her meal. Her lunch in solitude would soon be interrupted by someone clearing their throat after footsteps had approached closer to the table, Arina looks up to see Marina Marston standing there, she’s holding onto her tray as she raises her eyebrows a little bit in an inquisitive manner.
Marina Marston:
Can I sit here?
Caught by surprise, Arina looked around, almost as if she was checking if Marston was really talking to her.
Arina:
Of course… I’m sorry I wasn’t expecting anyone to join me.
Arina quickly began to clear that side of the table and make room for her. Marina doesn’t hesitate to place her tray down before she takes her seat across from Arina. There’s a silence that falls between them both before Marina clears her throat, never one to feel too shy to express her own feelings.
Marina Marston:
It’s been a bit rough for you, hasn’t it?
Arina sighed, twirling the spoon inside her soup absentmindedly.
Arina:
That might be an understatement but… yeah. Definitely isn’t going the way I was hoping for it to go. Ever since that video was aired, everyone has started looking at me differently.
Marina Marston:
I can’t even imagine what that must feel like.
Marina presses one hand up against her chest while she’s speaking, the expression on her face clearly one filled with concern, a frown forming on her face.
Marina Marston:
It’s hard enough being thrust into this brand new environment trying to figure ourselves out, you know? Feeling like a complete outcast only makes it worse.
Arina always prided herself on being good at reading people, and she could tell that Marina was sincere when she spoke those words. And maybe that helped her open up a bit.
Arina:
There have been days when I thought I don’t belong here, that I should just call it quits. I never fit in, I don’t have friends and I’m not even that good in the ring. Maybe coming here was a mistake…
The young brunette shook her head.
Arina:
I’m sorry, I don’t want to bother you with my problems. Is there something you want to talk about?
Marina shook her head, an encouraging smile on her face, as she placed one elbow on the table before resting her chin against the palm of her hand.
Marina Marston:
You just looked like you needed a friend.
Arina:
I’m not going to lie, I could really use a friend…
She smiled at Marina, the first smile in days. It lasted only a brief moment, before the melancholic expression reappeared on her face.
Arina:
Don’t get me wrong, I really appreciate this and when you checked on me after the fact. But I just realized… You don’t really know me, we barely ever talked… Why me? Why now?
For some reason, despite Marina’s good intentions, Arina was getting on the defensive. Almost as if she was scared at the idea of letting someone get close. Marina can sense the tension that’s building between them as she chews on her bottom lip slightly, worrying that she might have pushed somewhere she shouldn’t have in the first place.
Marina Marston:
Well… I guess because I don’t want to think about someone being so down during the holidays. I know I’ve been busy with my own training here at the academy, but it’s never too late to build on a friendship.
The holidays were another sensitive subject for Arina, but she did her best to not show it. While cautious, she was truly appreciative of Marina’s effort and didn’t want to sound more rude than she probably was already, although unintentionally, sounding.
Arina:
That’s true, sorry if I sounded like I wasn’t interested, it’s just… a bit complicated, I guess. It shouldn’t be, but…
Arina let out a sigh, pushing her chair back.
Arina:
You’re a nice and caring girl, Marina. I’m saying this from the bottom of my heart, and I really mean it. But… I’m sorry, I have to go now.
She suddenly stood up from her chair, her voice was trembling and she looked like she was on the verge of tears. Without adding another word, she turned around and left the room without even touching her soup. Marina’s face falls for a moment, unsure if she should go after her, but decides instead to remain seated as to avoid creating further issues.
The Gym
December 16th, 2022
6:19 PM
The students who weren’t booked for the night were ringside, helping with ring set up. Ava Grimes was diligently working on things when another student came up and tapped her on the shoulder. When Ava turned around? She saw her friend, CJ Night, standing there. CJ had his ring attire on; his tights and boots, and he had on a baggie Nightfall hoodie over his shirt. CJ seemed a bit nervous at the moment, his hands in his hoodie pocket now as he forced a smile and nodded at Ava.
CJ Night:
Hey, uh, what’s up?
Ava Grimes:
I forgot how much I hate this part… Setting up the ring sucks!
She commented as she quickly finished what she was doing, so that she could now focus on Night.
Ava Grimes:
What’s up with you tho? Tonight is your big night, how are you feeling?
CJ ran his hand through his hair as he laughed nervously.
CJ Night:
Well, I don’t know? I guess I’m kind of nervous. Usually, I’m not that nervous when I go out there and fight. I guess that might be a surprise to some, but it’s true. But tonight? It’s a little different.
He reached forward hesitant at first before placing his hand on Ava’s shoulder.
CJ Night:
But I’m taking your spot out there tonight. It’s not just about me or our team even. I’m representing you out there and I don’t wanna mess it up. Because, you know…
He shrugged.
CJ Night:
Because I care about you and you know, you’re my best friend.
Ava smiled at him.
Ava Grimes:
Ok, first of all? It’s normal to be nervous, it’s a title match, against a dangerous opponent and you got people coming here just to support you…
She was obviously referring to the Savell sisters, who asked and obtained access to the show.
Ava Grimes:
I know I just added extra pressure on you and you think you didn’t need it. But pressure is what makes diamonds, it’s a good thing if you know how to handle it. And you’ve been dealing with pressure since the day you were born, you’re a Night after all… You got this.
She motioned to a couple of chairs, sitting in one and inviting CJ to sit next to her.
Ava Grimes:
But most importantly, you’re not taking my spot. I still have my shot waiting for me, but this thing tonight? This is YOUR chance, you earned it.
CJ took her up on her offer to sit down and he sat down next to Ava as he listened to her. He then smiled and nodded, as it looked like a weight had been lifted off of his shoulders.
CJ Night:
You’re right. I’ve been working hard for this, you know? And win or lose? I’m going to put it all out there. I won’t leave anything behind. Because I’m not just fighting for me but I’m fighting for everyone that believes in me and that inspires me. My dad, Samara, and last and definitely not least, you.
He smiled widely.
CJ Night:
This kind of moment is what I’ve been dreaming of since I was in diapers and that’s legit not an exaggeration. This is definitely my moment and I won’t let it pass me by. No way.
His last words kept echoing in her mind as she suddenly seemed to get lost in her thoughts, her eyes staring at the empty ring in front of her. All her efforts to keep a positive front, to hide what she was feeling inside suddenly seemed in vain. She sighed, standing up from the chair.
Ava Grimes:
Right… I should go back to work now, sorry CJ. And good luck for your match, give her hell.
CJ nodded.
CJ Night:
You’re right! Sorry I distracted ya! See you after the match!
He leaned in and hugged Ava quickly before walking off.
Ava smiled softly, watching him go and wishing she could be happier for him. But something was definitely weighing on her. She reached inside her pocket and pulled out a piece of paper, slowly unfolding it. She closed her eyes, hoping that the words printed on it magically turned into something different from the bad news she received earlier today.
But obviously,that didn’t happen.
NOT CLEARED TO RETURN TO PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Team Strike Triple Threat Match
Arina VS Dakota VS Marina Marston
WINNER: Marina Marston BY: Pinfall (Tornado DDT), 8:02 |
Team Title Trios Match
Team Noir © (Scott Martell, Clementine Smith & Jamie James) VS Team Jones (The Rizz, Kyle Ashton & Adrianna Garcia)
WINNER: Team Noir (STILL TEAM CHAMPIONS) BY: Assisted Moonsault, 9:41 |
Gold Star Match
Soirse Tyrell © VS CJ Night
WINNER: Saoirse Tyrell (STILL GOLD STAR) BY: Submission (Cross armbar), 13:46 |