Post by Mercedes Vargas on Jul 27, 2015 21:30:57 GMT
..::PROLOGUE::..
One step forward, two steps back. Seems to be a common theme with Mercedes Vargas. It should become a trope. Go back six months ago, I was still the new girl on the block, just six matches into my IWF career. I had just beaten Eternity and Christine Rochette in back to back weeks. I was four days away from challenging for the then vacant Ruby Championship at Danger Zone 2014. Most people then were taking me as a threat.
Those were the good old days.
And just as everything was coming together everything was falling apart.
Sure, the Ruby Championship reign was great, but it wasn't as bad as the train wreck that is the current champion we have now. I sorta/kinda/maybe got myself in some hot water with some of the other Diamonds, but for the most part, I kept to myself. Made a column that did pretty well, but, again, CONTROVERSY, reared its ugly head. And my win-loss record wasn't so hot either. How many past Diamonds even have their own hashtags? I must be doing something to get such an honor. Still, I was chosen for the Heiress to the Throne, made quite an impression, but then I fell at the last hurdle.
To the one person that has had my number.
Fast forward to today. Another year, another Heiress to the Throne and it all comes down to this. Lineage, the biggest pay-per-view of the summer. Last week could have gone better. Once again, I lost in a multiperson match, and I was pinned. It's only the third time I've been pinned this year, but I still can't feel good about this. And now Eternity is all alone in first place, Mirsada can still hang her head high despite her first “L” on her record, and me?
Well, it looks like I've got a lot of work to do if I'm going to the HT3 finals.
_______≈₪≈______
__________________________
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA
CARMEN REYES' HOUSE
♦ ♦ ♦
TUESDAY
07.21.15
“There comes a time where you have to stop fooling yourself into thinking that people are always going to be there when you fall. I was never one of those people. You want to know why? Because I know the only person you can rely on is yourself.”
“How long are you going to be in there?”
[Looking into the bathroom mirror, Mercedes applies a coat of lipstick. Today was the eve of her flight to Germany for her match tomorrow, and she was planning on making that flight, delays be damned.]
.::MERCEDES::..
Was anyone there when you were on that losing streak? No. Did anyone said “Hey, Mercedes, you'll get 'em next time!' Nope. There went on about their business. The moment I finally end my losing streak, what happens? 'Oh, you still have to prove yourself!' Really? I've been proving myself the day I first stepped in a wrestling ring for my debut! I'm bad, I'm nationwide! No, worldwide! An international superstar!
[Mercedes turns back to the locked door in annoyance.]
.::MERCEDES::..
Carmen, I'll be right out! Jesus!
.::CARMEN::..
You said that ten minutes ago. I've got a date in half an hour and you've been in there forever.
.::MERCEDES::..
I had my rematch gainst Lenoir the Little Dead Girl and all I had to do was pin her pasty ass to the mat to get ten points. Simple as that. I didn't need a miracle. I didn't need a prayer I was perfectly capable of taking her down.
[She extends the end of the gloss, gliding the sharp,angled tip around her lips one last time. Pursing her lips around her index finger, she pulls it out quickly to avoid excess color to stain her pearly white teeth. Just as a fourth knock was coming, Mercedes opens the door, finding her cousin just in the act of banging on the door again.]
.::CARMEN::..
What took you so long?
.::MERCEDES::..
Just talking to myself is all. That a problem?
.::CARMEN::..
Nothing a psychologist can't solve. You weren't answering too, were you?
.::MERCEDES::..
I'm got a flight to catch.
.::CARMEN::..
Have fun. Send back souvenirs, if you can.
.::MERCEDES::..
Don't I always?
Fade.
_______≈₪≈______
I get it, I'm delusional. I live in my own little bubble and people like her say that like it's a bad thing. Maybe it's because nine times out of ten, I'm not the one who started it.
I think we all live in her own little bubbles. Jessica Reed has her cosplay bubble and whatever else activities that keept her away from the wrestling ring for almost four months. Ana Valentine has her own bubble. While her hubby is using his First Amendment rights fighting for change in IWF for the better, Mrs. Jones showed her valiant support by, well, going on strike for almost two months. And all they ever wanted was a match with Roberto Verona and Jessica Reed? The nerve of those people!
Firenze Everett is living in her own little bubble. She has held the Ruby Championship hostage for well over 200 days, and not a fuck was given. It's safe to say this very company is a bubble all in itself, seeing as champions can take vacations and no one notice they're even gone. It's happened more than once. Did anyone miss Alexis Caffrey when she was on her honeymoon? Survey says, no. She probably showed up to issue that open challenge so she wouldn't get fined.
In any event, people can call me delusional all they want, but I also happen to own a mirror, my eyesight is pretty okay, and I don't have a need to be arrogant because unlike some on the roster here, I have nothing to prove. I didn't come here expecting a title run, but, what do you know, a little more than two months after my debut I became the third fastest to win the Ruby Championship. Before that, I was the first and only Diamond on the roster to beat Amber's bodyguard – twice. The fact that I sent her ass back to Canada was just icing on the cake.
Last year, Amber had it easy. She swept all of her matches in the Heiress to the Throne. Not so easy this year. She still was in pretty good shape though to make the semis. Who knows? Perhaps history will repeat and we will see each other again in the finals?
Don't laugh. Because it could happen again.
I like to think I left a lasting impression in this company. You want to know how I know that? Because while I was taking my hiatus after last year's finals, Eternity, Ana, and the Richards Sisters were still talking about me. That tells me all that I need to know that behind the namecalling and the petty insults and the tough girl attitude that the eldest Richards is so desperately, hopelessly trying to bring back, somewhere in that black heart of hers, she has grown a soft spot for me.
Why else would she once again bring up Ruby Championship reign? After one defense, it's not my fault that I had virtually no competition during my title reign – the same can be said for her and Ana fighting over the Diamonds Championship for damn near four months in 2014 – but then again, I wouldn't know what being pinned and losing a title is like either. I'm willing to bet Ana and Ashley are thankful for her giving them their reigns, though.
I may not have been in this company from the very beginning, I may not have been the first Ruby Champion and, yeah, there have been better champions, but no one held that title longer before Firenze came along. And let's face it, she won the title after I vacated it. If people like Amber want to hold my illustrious reign over my head, that's fine. I'm fully aware that I was going to be challenged from the day the ink dried on my contract. I understood that. But coming in, I wasn't in the mindset that I'm going to be second place to anybody. I don't care if the roster just had Zelda Knite, Jessica Reed, and Ana Jones. I wasn't coming in with that mindset of kowtowing to anyone, I wasn't then, and I'm not about to start now.
I have worked for every single thing I have achieved. I have scratched and clawed and fought and bled to get to where I am today. Winning championships is what I do – and it doesn't matter if it's NCW, SCW, or IWF – that hasn't changed. That Ruby Championship run didn't come after weeks of cheating and needing a bodyguard to watch my back. I didn't have to use harebrained schemes to finally get one over on my “greatest rival.” And I sure as hell didn't need to come out week after week to tell the world how good I am. There comes a time where I should celebrate winning a title, but when you've been successful as I have, it only comes natural.
And it's obvious she probably didn't hear what I said last time. There isn't a soul on this roster, let alone on God's green earth, that intimidates me and there's not a single one of you that can faze me. Amber, Ana, Rayne, and the COE have tried to end my career or at least try to break my spirits and push me away, and they all failed, since we're all talking about FAILURE today.
Some thirty-plus Diamonds came and went through this company. Some were successful, others not so much. And where are they today? Unemployed. Retired. Probably seeking greener grass elsewhere in another promotion. I was there for probably two/thirds of those walkouts. The point is, they never came back. To me, these people have failed. The difference between me and them?
I haven't failed enough.
While they failed to try and make anything of a lasting impression, I was out there failing and challenging myself against the best this company has to offer. Because as I'm failing, I'm learning.
What's that saying again, “Pressure bust pipes or they make Diamonds”? Well, if you're looking for that Diamond in the rough, you've found her. If you want to know who has been tested and put through the fire and forged into shape that if you're not careful, like my words, could cut right through you. it's yours truly.
One day, someday, I will be Diamonds Champion. But don't you worry, pumpkin, just as how I'm not going to let anyone stop me, I'm not letting failure stop me either. These past two weeks, these past setbacks were only a setup for my comeback. And despite what you may think, failure isn't fatal. But I am.
_______≈₪≈______
_____________________
RICK'S TAVERN
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA
♦ ♦ ♦
6:00 PM
[Scene opens on Mercedes seen enjoying a late lunch outside the patio area and the warm weather at the busy Santa Monica hotspot. A camera crew will be following her this week for the first of many video logs documenting her travels. The former Ruby Champion and hopeful Diamonds Champion-to-be grins ear-to-ear as she partakes in drinks and her meal.
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
I usually keep to myself, but it's hard to do that when you're a celebrity in IWF. I never wanted this life, I don't need the free publicity. But just when I think I'm going to have a normal day for once, my name happens to come up in some form or fashion and it surprises me the mail I get on a regular basis – e-mail, snail mail, hate mail, voice mail – and the responses I get on Twitter. When a three-time Diamonds Champion actually says I'm a nobody and doesn't care about my respect? You don't know how much that brings a smile to my face.
[Mercedes does in fact smiles at Amber's response via Twitter directed at the former Ruby Champion hours after their anticipated rematch at Sacrifice, which Amber went on to win. Only two matches stood in the way of seeing a repeat of last year's Heiress to the Throne Final, provided Amber also advanced in her semfinal, so whether fans wanted to view this one-sided rivalry again, they may not have a choice. Of course, that's assuming Mercedes can beat her two dangerous opponents Sunday.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
It's strange, you know, this almost overnight superstardom. I mean, I'm not an attention whore, I'm hardly, if ever, on Twitter and I don't have an award, the top title or expect my name near the Hall of Fame anytime soon, yet I'm supposed to be washed up, yet people still can't stop talking about me.
[Mercedes pauses for a moment easing up in the patio chair to take a drink of her Lolita cocktail garnished with a lemon slice at the side. For good or ill, she has been talked about since she walked through the door, but for mostly all the wrong reasons. Her ego, her brash attitude, even her work ethic ws called into question recently. Most people would crack under pressure, others would fold and leave, Then again, Mercedes wasn't like them, or most people. She absently hums along to the live music inside. A new band, she guessed. They were pretty good.
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
The reason why I talk a lot is not because I love to hear the sound of my own voice. I'm trying to sell the match, make it more interesting. This isn't about everyone liking you, this isn't a popularity contest or about being Miss America. To me, win, lose, or draw, if people mention me in hushed tones, I've done a good job. Or, win, lose, or draw, if people mention me on social media and the like, then I've done a fantastic job. It's all a matter of perspective.
[She nods her head.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
I know I'm talented everywhere I go, I've proven that. But here in IWF? Maybe I'm the Kardashians of the Diamonds Division. You know, the sisters who are famous for only being famous? I guess it can't be helped.
[Mercedes just shrugged at the sentiment, as our scene fades.]
~ ~ ~
____________________
CrossFit 213
LOS ANGLES, CALIFORNIA
♦ ♦ ♦
3:37 PM | THURSDAY
07.23.15
"If I'm not considered an oracle by now in this company, I'm due."
[Opens to Mercedes holding an iPod Touch. Swiping her finger on the touch pad, she makes a double click and brings up the IWF.com Lineage page and the final Heiress to the Throne standings before turning the tablet to the camera. She shakes her head in disgust.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
To the surprise of NO ONE, Crystal Hilton and Fiona McFly couldn't win to save their lives, so it's easy to see why they failed to get past the first round. Personally, I think Rayne would have made a better addition to the tournament than either one of them, but that's just me. Eliza, Eternity and Amber all advanced, that shouldn't have come as a surprise to anyone, but neither was my prediction that me and Mirsada would battle for the final spot. I just didn't think Emma Danielson would be involved.
[It was time to get to work. Shutting off the device, Mercedes stows it awa in its special case and drops it lightly back into her gym bag.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
I tried to care about this match, but I'm not going to be able to do it. I get they are both rematches against opponents I've faced before, but Mirsada doesn't make me want to break out in song. The girl makes me want to cry, and not in a good way. She is just soooooooooo boring. Did she forget to pack her personality when she came to America? How is it that me and Emma had matches this past Monday and she got the night off? Is it fair that Amber and Eliza had non-tournament matches against the Garcias? Is it fair that Emma has an additional match than everyone else in the tournament, with four? Is it fair that Crystal got a non-tournament match with Alexis Caffrey? My God, have they learned ANYTHING from that whole Firenze/Crystal Ruby Title fiasco? That was my five weeks of my life I wanted back!
As for Emma, well, I would face her any day, but not this Sunday. She has a lot on her plate as it is and she's is coming into our match a little angry, a litle pissed off, and she ready to break stuff. This match leaves me excited...and afraid. When I said that Mirsada and Emma would be a dream match, I had no idea IWF brass took it seriously. Oracle strikes again!
~ ~ ~
[Mercedes just shrugged at the sentiment, at least in her mind, and changed the subject. ]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
As for my match, it's whatever. While Emma and Mirsada beat each other silly, I'll be in my little corner in the ring, I don't know, filing my nails or something, or checking my timeline on the Twitter machine on my phone as I'm sure this match will be trending coast to coast and around the world. Oh, that reminds me about our world tour. Maybe I should be looking into travel updates for Mexico. I hear the weather is nice there this time of year. Better pack a sweater, a raincoat, and some sunscreen.
[Mercedes heads out of the scene as her footsteps can be heard going up some stairs as the scene quickly fades.]
__________________________
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA
CARMEN REYES' HOUSE
♦ ♦ ♦
4:00 PM | FRIDAY
07.24.15
[The Downtown Los Angeles skyline seen at sunset on an July day.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
I'm just packing up right now. Getting a few things, ready to go to Milan. I've been to Italy before. Actually, that's where I came up short against Amber Richards in the HT3 finals last year in Rome. Hopefully, this time will be a better outcome going back there.
[Mercedes continues packing.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
Last time, Mirsada had a lot to say ahead of our first match and I wasn't too phased by it, but words can only say so much. Who came out with the loss? I did. And she didn't win either. So, we're about even, but I'm looking forward to shutting her up on Sunday.
Rome was fun last year. Learned a lot of new things, got to experience the culture and the food, but Milan is something else. Should be fun to visit this weekend.
~ ~ ~
________________________________
LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
LOS ANGLES, CALIFORNIA
♦ ♦ ♦
9:00 AM | SATURDAY
07.25.15
[Mercedes weaves through the bustling crowd on the way to the gate for her flight. A quick glance at the flight schedule shows that her flight is in the clear, which can't be said for the few destinations sandwiched in between. As she ends a conversation on her cellphone, Mercedes lowers her aviator sunglasses and walks and talks to the camera crew.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
Well, it's Saturday and I checked in with my flight. It's going to be 12 hours. So, hopefully, I get window seats, because I don't like sitting in the aisle and it's worst when you're in the middle. That, and I hope we get a in-flight movie. There's only so many times you can watch Snakes on a Plane. Anyways, it's off to Milan, Italy, see some sights, and then the big day ahead tomorrow. Wish me luck.
[Cut to the plane taking off the runway under the guise of sunrise, our scene fades to black.]
_______≈₪≈______
..::EPILOGUE::.
13....13...
You know, in some parts of the world, 13 is seen as a lucky or unlucky number.
Some experience unusual luck or bad events when 13 falls on a Friday. 13 just isn't my number no matter what day it was.
My 13th singles match in my career to date is the only blemish on my unbeaten debut streak, that match ended in a draw because some cuckoolander thought it was a good idea to attack both me and my opponent. The 13th loss of my career was my second failed attempt at winning a second singles title. My 13th match in an IWF ring was the first Champion versus Champion match against Ana Valentine, which she subsequently won by submission.
13...13...
But you have to take the bad with the good. I know I have. My 13th career win happened when I beat an opponent and ended her undefeated streak. My 13th career match is where I won my first ever championship. Eventually, my 13th championship of my career made me an overall six-time tag team champion. My 13th match in Imperial was where I made some rookie from Vermont my bitch and made her tap, tap, tap without too much of a hassle, which, coincidentally, was also my 13th singles win by submission. Sure, my belt wasn't on the line and I thought I saw her tears through the reflection of my title. I'm not sure, I can't remember. Not one of my prouder moments since, you know, I get kicked her ass AGAIN damn near a month in my first and only defense.
13...13...
Emma Danielson, we meet again for, you guessed it, the 13th time. I don't think anyone expected you and me to see each other after our previous match last month, I just wish it wasn't under these circumstances because you've been here before. I mean, in a high-stakes match that could mean the difference between fortune or failure. It's the final week of the Heiress to the Throne, you're not exactly setting the world on fire and you're dead last in the standings, but there is hope. All you had to do is pin one of your opponents and you're in the clear.
Except that didn't exactly happen, did it, Em? You not only lost the match, but Alysson Gardner pinned your shoulders to the mat. That was the first-ever Heiress to the Throne Tournament over two years ago.
Pressure is on, Emma. Are you going to let history repeat itself, or are you finally going to prove that we were wrong about you all along?
And then there is Mirsada. Mirsada, Mirsada, Mirsada.
Is that another scowl you're wearing, or are you just glad to see me? Mirsada, you and I have a little unfinished business so our second meeting in 13 days is something I'll be looking forward to, but in our first match it was interesting that as soon as the opening bell sounded you went for me like a heat-seeking missile. I expected as much that I was going to be targeted, and I really don't like my chances in this one. See, I would be a fool to think I would leave this triple threat without a few bumps and bruises and I expect that while you and Emma slug it out like this is some gunfight at the O.K. Corral, I have a feeling that I'm going be in for quite a beating.
Not like that hasn't happened before. A six foot nine giantess was the least of my worries. I'm not scared of beatings, and I'm not scared of you, Mirsada. I'm not scared of your words, I'm not scared of your temper, I'm not scared of what you're going to do to me. You don't think I'm in way over my head? You don't think I know what I'm getting myself into? Oh, I know. The word “punching bag” is written across my forehead. But the question I pose to you is what are you going to do to me to stop me from walking out of Milan, Italy? It doesn't take much for people to look up at you and see someone who is just as intimidating as Emma, if not more. I know that this five foot seven Latina from Buenos Aires, Argentina won't be winning any powerlifting contests anytime soon and my name doesn't strike fear in the hearts of opponents, that much is certain.
People fear you, they fear Emma. Me? No. People don't fear me, they hate me. And I'm perfectly OK with that. I rather be hated for who I am, than loved for who I am not. Who I am not, what I am not, is you. I can't hope to outwrestle you, but that's more of a strength than a weakness. I don't outfight anyone, I outsmart them.
Isn't that right, Emma?
While I absolutely hate multi-person matches, I know how they work. It takes more than beating down your opponent, it takes strategy, and that is right in my wheelhouse. From the looks of it, you two come with one setting: seek and destroy. I don't have that problem, because you're only playing to my advantage.
This match is an important opportunity for the three of us. Whoever wins will have earned the final spot in the semifinals. Now while Amber and Eliza are tied for second place, according to the rules they will have to face each other whether they like it or not, and I KNOW they won't be looking forward to that. But the winner of our match will have to face the top Diamond with the most points in the tournament. That top Diamond is none other than Eternity. Now ask yourselves, which of us is capable of matching up with Eternity? I will admit, Mirsada, that you held your own against her that night, but you also had firsthand experience of what it’s like to be in the ring. You knew the mind games she is well versed in playing. You saw for yourself the depths that crazy bitch will lower herself to win a match. You felt the hell she put you through inside the ring. And you found out first hand what it's like as she sees through your soul. I know you would love to have one more round, but that day won't be after Lineage.
And Emma, after this past Sacrifice, you're now 0-for-2 against Eternity. Last time, she broke your arm and put you on the shelf for the better part of a year. You are without a doubt one of the strongest Diamonds on the roster, but last Sacrifice it just wasn't enough and you found yourself looking up into the arena lights. I know you're looking for a little payback against me, you're looking to even the score from Bloody Assizes, you're looking for redemption, but sweetheart, sorry to say, at Lineage, redemption won't be found, and it won't be yours.
It will be mine.
Redemption will be mine when I claim that final spot in the final four and then knock the clown face paint off of Eternity in the semis. Redemption will be mine when I walk into the finals of the this year's Heiress to the Throne and this time walk out the number one contender to the Imperial Wrestling Federation Diamonds Championship. Redemption will be mine when I stand over the unconscious body of Alexis Caffrey with my head held high, my hand raised and my name declared the new Diamonds Champion.
Out of the three of us, I'm the only one who can say they have pinned Eternity's shoulder to the mat. I'm one of the very few in the division who has pinned Eternity's shoulder to the mat. I've also teamed with and against her, so I know what I'm getting into. I know just how she works.
And I know that after Sunday, I will have a date with Sister Sorrow, but she won't like this date very much.
For what it's worth, 2015 has not been a great year for me. I've been cussed and discussed. Criticized, despised, ostracized, scrutinized, victimized and vilified. Demoted and misquoted. Intimidated, interrogated, instigated and berated. Things looked bleak for 13 weeks and I was stuck in an eight-match losing streak. Most of that happened when I was upstaged by rookies half my age and The Jones' or the Golden Couple mentioned my name, but didn't have to be so subtle. But winning this tournament can change all that. Winning this tournament will make all of the bullshit I went through well worth it. And for those of you who says that I can't do it, who turned a deaf ear. Don't do as I say, watch what I did last year.
Who finished runner-up in the tournament standings? Mercedes Vargas. Who beat Sunshine Sparkles to advance to the finals and made a big fuss? Mercedes Vargas. Who arrived on the scene and gave a former three-time Diamonds Champion a run for her money at Lineage 2014? Mercedes Vargas.
The key word here is “Who”? Which is the word The Golden Couple used as a front whenever a microphone was in their face for an interview. And despite their disrespect and pretending like they don't give a damn, they know exactly what I came for and who I am. The fifteen people I've defeated – including the likes of Rayne, Amber Richards and her then bodyguard - over the course of 18 months I've competed know exactly who I am.
“Who” is the word that is going to be on everyone's lips and it will be the last image that will live in their minds forever at the end of Lineage.
Who will be leaving Milan, Italy and this triple threat match with their hand raised? Mercedes Vargas. The one who is going to knock off Eternity in the semifinals? Mercedes Vargas. The one who will be waiting at the finish line to challenge the number one contender, be it Eliza or Amber? Mercedes Vargas. And at next month's pay-per-view, who will be standing across the ring and later standing over Alexis Caffrey raising up that Diamonds Championship at Legacy in Mexico City?
Who?
WHO?
WHO?!?
Mercedes Vargas.
Emma Danielson, Mirsada Tanović, pleasure to meet your acquaintance.
And if you don't know, now you know.
One step forward, two steps back. Seems to be a common theme with Mercedes Vargas. It should become a trope. Go back six months ago, I was still the new girl on the block, just six matches into my IWF career. I had just beaten Eternity and Christine Rochette in back to back weeks. I was four days away from challenging for the then vacant Ruby Championship at Danger Zone 2014. Most people then were taking me as a threat.
Those were the good old days.
And just as everything was coming together everything was falling apart.
Sure, the Ruby Championship reign was great, but it wasn't as bad as the train wreck that is the current champion we have now. I sorta/kinda/maybe got myself in some hot water with some of the other Diamonds, but for the most part, I kept to myself. Made a column that did pretty well, but, again, CONTROVERSY, reared its ugly head. And my win-loss record wasn't so hot either. How many past Diamonds even have their own hashtags? I must be doing something to get such an honor. Still, I was chosen for the Heiress to the Throne, made quite an impression, but then I fell at the last hurdle.
To the one person that has had my number.
Fast forward to today. Another year, another Heiress to the Throne and it all comes down to this. Lineage, the biggest pay-per-view of the summer. Last week could have gone better. Once again, I lost in a multiperson match, and I was pinned. It's only the third time I've been pinned this year, but I still can't feel good about this. And now Eternity is all alone in first place, Mirsada can still hang her head high despite her first “L” on her record, and me?
Well, it looks like I've got a lot of work to do if I'm going to the HT3 finals.
_______≈₪≈______
__________________________
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA
CARMEN REYES' HOUSE
♦ ♦ ♦
TUESDAY
07.21.15
“There comes a time where you have to stop fooling yourself into thinking that people are always going to be there when you fall. I was never one of those people. You want to know why? Because I know the only person you can rely on is yourself.”
“How long are you going to be in there?”
[Looking into the bathroom mirror, Mercedes applies a coat of lipstick. Today was the eve of her flight to Germany for her match tomorrow, and she was planning on making that flight, delays be damned.]
.::MERCEDES::..
Was anyone there when you were on that losing streak? No. Did anyone said “Hey, Mercedes, you'll get 'em next time!' Nope. There went on about their business. The moment I finally end my losing streak, what happens? 'Oh, you still have to prove yourself!' Really? I've been proving myself the day I first stepped in a wrestling ring for my debut! I'm bad, I'm nationwide! No, worldwide! An international superstar!
[Mercedes turns back to the locked door in annoyance.]
.::MERCEDES::..
Carmen, I'll be right out! Jesus!
.::CARMEN::..
You said that ten minutes ago. I've got a date in half an hour and you've been in there forever.
.::MERCEDES::..
I had my rematch gainst Lenoir the Little Dead Girl and all I had to do was pin her pasty ass to the mat to get ten points. Simple as that. I didn't need a miracle. I didn't need a prayer I was perfectly capable of taking her down.
[She extends the end of the gloss, gliding the sharp,angled tip around her lips one last time. Pursing her lips around her index finger, she pulls it out quickly to avoid excess color to stain her pearly white teeth. Just as a fourth knock was coming, Mercedes opens the door, finding her cousin just in the act of banging on the door again.]
.::CARMEN::..
What took you so long?
.::MERCEDES::..
Just talking to myself is all. That a problem?
.::CARMEN::..
Nothing a psychologist can't solve. You weren't answering too, were you?
.::MERCEDES::..
I'm got a flight to catch.
.::CARMEN::..
Have fun. Send back souvenirs, if you can.
.::MERCEDES::..
Don't I always?
Fade.
_______≈₪≈______
I get it, I'm delusional. I live in my own little bubble and people like her say that like it's a bad thing. Maybe it's because nine times out of ten, I'm not the one who started it.
I think we all live in her own little bubbles. Jessica Reed has her cosplay bubble and whatever else activities that keept her away from the wrestling ring for almost four months. Ana Valentine has her own bubble. While her hubby is using his First Amendment rights fighting for change in IWF for the better, Mrs. Jones showed her valiant support by, well, going on strike for almost two months. And all they ever wanted was a match with Roberto Verona and Jessica Reed? The nerve of those people!
Firenze Everett is living in her own little bubble. She has held the Ruby Championship hostage for well over 200 days, and not a fuck was given. It's safe to say this very company is a bubble all in itself, seeing as champions can take vacations and no one notice they're even gone. It's happened more than once. Did anyone miss Alexis Caffrey when she was on her honeymoon? Survey says, no. She probably showed up to issue that open challenge so she wouldn't get fined.
In any event, people can call me delusional all they want, but I also happen to own a mirror, my eyesight is pretty okay, and I don't have a need to be arrogant because unlike some on the roster here, I have nothing to prove. I didn't come here expecting a title run, but, what do you know, a little more than two months after my debut I became the third fastest to win the Ruby Championship. Before that, I was the first and only Diamond on the roster to beat Amber's bodyguard – twice. The fact that I sent her ass back to Canada was just icing on the cake.
Last year, Amber had it easy. She swept all of her matches in the Heiress to the Throne. Not so easy this year. She still was in pretty good shape though to make the semis. Who knows? Perhaps history will repeat and we will see each other again in the finals?
Don't laugh. Because it could happen again.
I like to think I left a lasting impression in this company. You want to know how I know that? Because while I was taking my hiatus after last year's finals, Eternity, Ana, and the Richards Sisters were still talking about me. That tells me all that I need to know that behind the namecalling and the petty insults and the tough girl attitude that the eldest Richards is so desperately, hopelessly trying to bring back, somewhere in that black heart of hers, she has grown a soft spot for me.
Why else would she once again bring up Ruby Championship reign? After one defense, it's not my fault that I had virtually no competition during my title reign – the same can be said for her and Ana fighting over the Diamonds Championship for damn near four months in 2014 – but then again, I wouldn't know what being pinned and losing a title is like either. I'm willing to bet Ana and Ashley are thankful for her giving them their reigns, though.
I may not have been in this company from the very beginning, I may not have been the first Ruby Champion and, yeah, there have been better champions, but no one held that title longer before Firenze came along. And let's face it, she won the title after I vacated it. If people like Amber want to hold my illustrious reign over my head, that's fine. I'm fully aware that I was going to be challenged from the day the ink dried on my contract. I understood that. But coming in, I wasn't in the mindset that I'm going to be second place to anybody. I don't care if the roster just had Zelda Knite, Jessica Reed, and Ana Jones. I wasn't coming in with that mindset of kowtowing to anyone, I wasn't then, and I'm not about to start now.
I have worked for every single thing I have achieved. I have scratched and clawed and fought and bled to get to where I am today. Winning championships is what I do – and it doesn't matter if it's NCW, SCW, or IWF – that hasn't changed. That Ruby Championship run didn't come after weeks of cheating and needing a bodyguard to watch my back. I didn't have to use harebrained schemes to finally get one over on my “greatest rival.” And I sure as hell didn't need to come out week after week to tell the world how good I am. There comes a time where I should celebrate winning a title, but when you've been successful as I have, it only comes natural.
And it's obvious she probably didn't hear what I said last time. There isn't a soul on this roster, let alone on God's green earth, that intimidates me and there's not a single one of you that can faze me. Amber, Ana, Rayne, and the COE have tried to end my career or at least try to break my spirits and push me away, and they all failed, since we're all talking about FAILURE today.
Some thirty-plus Diamonds came and went through this company. Some were successful, others not so much. And where are they today? Unemployed. Retired. Probably seeking greener grass elsewhere in another promotion. I was there for probably two/thirds of those walkouts. The point is, they never came back. To me, these people have failed. The difference between me and them?
I haven't failed enough.
While they failed to try and make anything of a lasting impression, I was out there failing and challenging myself against the best this company has to offer. Because as I'm failing, I'm learning.
What's that saying again, “Pressure bust pipes or they make Diamonds”? Well, if you're looking for that Diamond in the rough, you've found her. If you want to know who has been tested and put through the fire and forged into shape that if you're not careful, like my words, could cut right through you. it's yours truly.
One day, someday, I will be Diamonds Champion. But don't you worry, pumpkin, just as how I'm not going to let anyone stop me, I'm not letting failure stop me either. These past two weeks, these past setbacks were only a setup for my comeback. And despite what you may think, failure isn't fatal. But I am.
_______≈₪≈______
_____________________
RICK'S TAVERN
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA
♦ ♦ ♦
6:00 PM
[Scene opens on Mercedes seen enjoying a late lunch outside the patio area and the warm weather at the busy Santa Monica hotspot. A camera crew will be following her this week for the first of many video logs documenting her travels. The former Ruby Champion and hopeful Diamonds Champion-to-be grins ear-to-ear as she partakes in drinks and her meal.
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
I usually keep to myself, but it's hard to do that when you're a celebrity in IWF. I never wanted this life, I don't need the free publicity. But just when I think I'm going to have a normal day for once, my name happens to come up in some form or fashion and it surprises me the mail I get on a regular basis – e-mail, snail mail, hate mail, voice mail – and the responses I get on Twitter. When a three-time Diamonds Champion actually says I'm a nobody and doesn't care about my respect? You don't know how much that brings a smile to my face.
[Mercedes does in fact smiles at Amber's response via Twitter directed at the former Ruby Champion hours after their anticipated rematch at Sacrifice, which Amber went on to win. Only two matches stood in the way of seeing a repeat of last year's Heiress to the Throne Final, provided Amber also advanced in her semfinal, so whether fans wanted to view this one-sided rivalry again, they may not have a choice. Of course, that's assuming Mercedes can beat her two dangerous opponents Sunday.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
It's strange, you know, this almost overnight superstardom. I mean, I'm not an attention whore, I'm hardly, if ever, on Twitter and I don't have an award, the top title or expect my name near the Hall of Fame anytime soon, yet I'm supposed to be washed up, yet people still can't stop talking about me.
[Mercedes pauses for a moment easing up in the patio chair to take a drink of her Lolita cocktail garnished with a lemon slice at the side. For good or ill, she has been talked about since she walked through the door, but for mostly all the wrong reasons. Her ego, her brash attitude, even her work ethic ws called into question recently. Most people would crack under pressure, others would fold and leave, Then again, Mercedes wasn't like them, or most people. She absently hums along to the live music inside. A new band, she guessed. They were pretty good.
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
The reason why I talk a lot is not because I love to hear the sound of my own voice. I'm trying to sell the match, make it more interesting. This isn't about everyone liking you, this isn't a popularity contest or about being Miss America. To me, win, lose, or draw, if people mention me in hushed tones, I've done a good job. Or, win, lose, or draw, if people mention me on social media and the like, then I've done a fantastic job. It's all a matter of perspective.
[She nods her head.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
I know I'm talented everywhere I go, I've proven that. But here in IWF? Maybe I'm the Kardashians of the Diamonds Division. You know, the sisters who are famous for only being famous? I guess it can't be helped.
[Mercedes just shrugged at the sentiment, as our scene fades.]
~ ~ ~
____________________
CrossFit 213
LOS ANGLES, CALIFORNIA
♦ ♦ ♦
3:37 PM | THURSDAY
07.23.15
"If I'm not considered an oracle by now in this company, I'm due."
[Opens to Mercedes holding an iPod Touch. Swiping her finger on the touch pad, she makes a double click and brings up the IWF.com Lineage page and the final Heiress to the Throne standings before turning the tablet to the camera. She shakes her head in disgust.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
To the surprise of NO ONE, Crystal Hilton and Fiona McFly couldn't win to save their lives, so it's easy to see why they failed to get past the first round. Personally, I think Rayne would have made a better addition to the tournament than either one of them, but that's just me. Eliza, Eternity and Amber all advanced, that shouldn't have come as a surprise to anyone, but neither was my prediction that me and Mirsada would battle for the final spot. I just didn't think Emma Danielson would be involved.
[It was time to get to work. Shutting off the device, Mercedes stows it awa in its special case and drops it lightly back into her gym bag.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
I tried to care about this match, but I'm not going to be able to do it. I get they are both rematches against opponents I've faced before, but Mirsada doesn't make me want to break out in song. The girl makes me want to cry, and not in a good way. She is just soooooooooo boring. Did she forget to pack her personality when she came to America? How is it that me and Emma had matches this past Monday and she got the night off? Is it fair that Amber and Eliza had non-tournament matches against the Garcias? Is it fair that Emma has an additional match than everyone else in the tournament, with four? Is it fair that Crystal got a non-tournament match with Alexis Caffrey? My God, have they learned ANYTHING from that whole Firenze/Crystal Ruby Title fiasco? That was my five weeks of my life I wanted back!
As for Emma, well, I would face her any day, but not this Sunday. She has a lot on her plate as it is and she's is coming into our match a little angry, a litle pissed off, and she ready to break stuff. This match leaves me excited...and afraid. When I said that Mirsada and Emma would be a dream match, I had no idea IWF brass took it seriously. Oracle strikes again!
~ ~ ~
[Mercedes just shrugged at the sentiment, at least in her mind, and changed the subject. ]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
As for my match, it's whatever. While Emma and Mirsada beat each other silly, I'll be in my little corner in the ring, I don't know, filing my nails or something, or checking my timeline on the Twitter machine on my phone as I'm sure this match will be trending coast to coast and around the world. Oh, that reminds me about our world tour. Maybe I should be looking into travel updates for Mexico. I hear the weather is nice there this time of year. Better pack a sweater, a raincoat, and some sunscreen.
[Mercedes heads out of the scene as her footsteps can be heard going up some stairs as the scene quickly fades.]
__________________________
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA
CARMEN REYES' HOUSE
♦ ♦ ♦
4:00 PM | FRIDAY
07.24.15
[The Downtown Los Angeles skyline seen at sunset on an July day.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
I'm just packing up right now. Getting a few things, ready to go to Milan. I've been to Italy before. Actually, that's where I came up short against Amber Richards in the HT3 finals last year in Rome. Hopefully, this time will be a better outcome going back there.
[Mercedes continues packing.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
Last time, Mirsada had a lot to say ahead of our first match and I wasn't too phased by it, but words can only say so much. Who came out with the loss? I did. And she didn't win either. So, we're about even, but I'm looking forward to shutting her up on Sunday.
Rome was fun last year. Learned a lot of new things, got to experience the culture and the food, but Milan is something else. Should be fun to visit this weekend.
~ ~ ~
________________________________
LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
LOS ANGLES, CALIFORNIA
♦ ♦ ♦
9:00 AM | SATURDAY
07.25.15
[Mercedes weaves through the bustling crowd on the way to the gate for her flight. A quick glance at the flight schedule shows that her flight is in the clear, which can't be said for the few destinations sandwiched in between. As she ends a conversation on her cellphone, Mercedes lowers her aviator sunglasses and walks and talks to the camera crew.]
M E R C E D E S ♦ V A R G A S
IWF DIAMOND
Well, it's Saturday and I checked in with my flight. It's going to be 12 hours. So, hopefully, I get window seats, because I don't like sitting in the aisle and it's worst when you're in the middle. That, and I hope we get a in-flight movie. There's only so many times you can watch Snakes on a Plane. Anyways, it's off to Milan, Italy, see some sights, and then the big day ahead tomorrow. Wish me luck.
[Cut to the plane taking off the runway under the guise of sunrise, our scene fades to black.]
_______≈₪≈______
..::EPILOGUE::.
13....13...
You know, in some parts of the world, 13 is seen as a lucky or unlucky number.
Some experience unusual luck or bad events when 13 falls on a Friday. 13 just isn't my number no matter what day it was.
My 13th singles match in my career to date is the only blemish on my unbeaten debut streak, that match ended in a draw because some cuckoolander thought it was a good idea to attack both me and my opponent. The 13th loss of my career was my second failed attempt at winning a second singles title. My 13th match in an IWF ring was the first Champion versus Champion match against Ana Valentine, which she subsequently won by submission.
13...13...
But you have to take the bad with the good. I know I have. My 13th career win happened when I beat an opponent and ended her undefeated streak. My 13th career match is where I won my first ever championship. Eventually, my 13th championship of my career made me an overall six-time tag team champion. My 13th match in Imperial was where I made some rookie from Vermont my bitch and made her tap, tap, tap without too much of a hassle, which, coincidentally, was also my 13th singles win by submission. Sure, my belt wasn't on the line and I thought I saw her tears through the reflection of my title. I'm not sure, I can't remember. Not one of my prouder moments since, you know, I get kicked her ass AGAIN damn near a month in my first and only defense.
13...13...
Emma Danielson, we meet again for, you guessed it, the 13th time. I don't think anyone expected you and me to see each other after our previous match last month, I just wish it wasn't under these circumstances because you've been here before. I mean, in a high-stakes match that could mean the difference between fortune or failure. It's the final week of the Heiress to the Throne, you're not exactly setting the world on fire and you're dead last in the standings, but there is hope. All you had to do is pin one of your opponents and you're in the clear.
Except that didn't exactly happen, did it, Em? You not only lost the match, but Alysson Gardner pinned your shoulders to the mat. That was the first-ever Heiress to the Throne Tournament over two years ago.
Pressure is on, Emma. Are you going to let history repeat itself, or are you finally going to prove that we were wrong about you all along?
And then there is Mirsada. Mirsada, Mirsada, Mirsada.
Is that another scowl you're wearing, or are you just glad to see me? Mirsada, you and I have a little unfinished business so our second meeting in 13 days is something I'll be looking forward to, but in our first match it was interesting that as soon as the opening bell sounded you went for me like a heat-seeking missile. I expected as much that I was going to be targeted, and I really don't like my chances in this one. See, I would be a fool to think I would leave this triple threat without a few bumps and bruises and I expect that while you and Emma slug it out like this is some gunfight at the O.K. Corral, I have a feeling that I'm going be in for quite a beating.
Not like that hasn't happened before. A six foot nine giantess was the least of my worries. I'm not scared of beatings, and I'm not scared of you, Mirsada. I'm not scared of your words, I'm not scared of your temper, I'm not scared of what you're going to do to me. You don't think I'm in way over my head? You don't think I know what I'm getting myself into? Oh, I know. The word “punching bag” is written across my forehead. But the question I pose to you is what are you going to do to me to stop me from walking out of Milan, Italy? It doesn't take much for people to look up at you and see someone who is just as intimidating as Emma, if not more. I know that this five foot seven Latina from Buenos Aires, Argentina won't be winning any powerlifting contests anytime soon and my name doesn't strike fear in the hearts of opponents, that much is certain.
People fear you, they fear Emma. Me? No. People don't fear me, they hate me. And I'm perfectly OK with that. I rather be hated for who I am, than loved for who I am not. Who I am not, what I am not, is you. I can't hope to outwrestle you, but that's more of a strength than a weakness. I don't outfight anyone, I outsmart them.
Isn't that right, Emma?
While I absolutely hate multi-person matches, I know how they work. It takes more than beating down your opponent, it takes strategy, and that is right in my wheelhouse. From the looks of it, you two come with one setting: seek and destroy. I don't have that problem, because you're only playing to my advantage.
This match is an important opportunity for the three of us. Whoever wins will have earned the final spot in the semifinals. Now while Amber and Eliza are tied for second place, according to the rules they will have to face each other whether they like it or not, and I KNOW they won't be looking forward to that. But the winner of our match will have to face the top Diamond with the most points in the tournament. That top Diamond is none other than Eternity. Now ask yourselves, which of us is capable of matching up with Eternity? I will admit, Mirsada, that you held your own against her that night, but you also had firsthand experience of what it’s like to be in the ring. You knew the mind games she is well versed in playing. You saw for yourself the depths that crazy bitch will lower herself to win a match. You felt the hell she put you through inside the ring. And you found out first hand what it's like as she sees through your soul. I know you would love to have one more round, but that day won't be after Lineage.
And Emma, after this past Sacrifice, you're now 0-for-2 against Eternity. Last time, she broke your arm and put you on the shelf for the better part of a year. You are without a doubt one of the strongest Diamonds on the roster, but last Sacrifice it just wasn't enough and you found yourself looking up into the arena lights. I know you're looking for a little payback against me, you're looking to even the score from Bloody Assizes, you're looking for redemption, but sweetheart, sorry to say, at Lineage, redemption won't be found, and it won't be yours.
It will be mine.
Redemption will be mine when I claim that final spot in the final four and then knock the clown face paint off of Eternity in the semis. Redemption will be mine when I walk into the finals of the this year's Heiress to the Throne and this time walk out the number one contender to the Imperial Wrestling Federation Diamonds Championship. Redemption will be mine when I stand over the unconscious body of Alexis Caffrey with my head held high, my hand raised and my name declared the new Diamonds Champion.
Out of the three of us, I'm the only one who can say they have pinned Eternity's shoulder to the mat. I'm one of the very few in the division who has pinned Eternity's shoulder to the mat. I've also teamed with and against her, so I know what I'm getting into. I know just how she works.
And I know that after Sunday, I will have a date with Sister Sorrow, but she won't like this date very much.
For what it's worth, 2015 has not been a great year for me. I've been cussed and discussed. Criticized, despised, ostracized, scrutinized, victimized and vilified. Demoted and misquoted. Intimidated, interrogated, instigated and berated. Things looked bleak for 13 weeks and I was stuck in an eight-match losing streak. Most of that happened when I was upstaged by rookies half my age and The Jones' or the Golden Couple mentioned my name, but didn't have to be so subtle. But winning this tournament can change all that. Winning this tournament will make all of the bullshit I went through well worth it. And for those of you who says that I can't do it, who turned a deaf ear. Don't do as I say, watch what I did last year.
Who finished runner-up in the tournament standings? Mercedes Vargas. Who beat Sunshine Sparkles to advance to the finals and made a big fuss? Mercedes Vargas. Who arrived on the scene and gave a former three-time Diamonds Champion a run for her money at Lineage 2014? Mercedes Vargas.
The key word here is “Who”? Which is the word The Golden Couple used as a front whenever a microphone was in their face for an interview. And despite their disrespect and pretending like they don't give a damn, they know exactly what I came for and who I am. The fifteen people I've defeated – including the likes of Rayne, Amber Richards and her then bodyguard - over the course of 18 months I've competed know exactly who I am.
“Who” is the word that is going to be on everyone's lips and it will be the last image that will live in their minds forever at the end of Lineage.
Who will be leaving Milan, Italy and this triple threat match with their hand raised? Mercedes Vargas. The one who is going to knock off Eternity in the semifinals? Mercedes Vargas. The one who will be waiting at the finish line to challenge the number one contender, be it Eliza or Amber? Mercedes Vargas. And at next month's pay-per-view, who will be standing across the ring and later standing over Alexis Caffrey raising up that Diamonds Championship at Legacy in Mexico City?
Who?
WHO?
WHO?!?
Mercedes Vargas.
Emma Danielson, Mirsada Tanović, pleasure to meet your acquaintance.
And if you don't know, now you know.
Well howdy there pardner.