Post by Roxi Johnson on Oct 9, 2012 22:40:14 GMT -5
I've honed my body and mind to do this. I trained to near physical perfection based on gymnastics, Jiu-jitsu, and regular cardio. I have learned to push myself beyond my limits. I've had combat training to engage 5 adult attackers at once.
I have studied the human body and how to break it down for years. Pressure points, arteries, how to instantly take people down as quickly as possible.
But, I'm still human.
Yeah, I know, there's plenty of superheroes out there without powers. But sadly, I'm not a billionaire with a sweet ride, or a genius inventor. Heck, I barely passed Chemistry in High School. But that's the only thing that keeps me grounded. The fact that I am human. The fact that I do what seems impossible for a ordinary human to do.
I guess what I'm really getting at here is....
I don't have any superpowers, and it totally sucks.
You know, I would love to able to fly, or have super strength, or be invisible. But, sadly, I can't. Stupid Science no making it possible. Nope, I gotta use my motorcycle. Plus I heard bad things about invisibility. So scratch that one maybe. In the end, I just want to be happy with my life.
But, some people just can't let me be happy. Some people can't things go. Some people can't leave well enough alone....
...Some people need to stop adding cleche's and get to the point.
I never wanted or asked for a problem with Bloodhound. To me, he was just another guy on the roster. I mean, no less than 8 guys here have propositioned me for sex anyway, so all their faces just blend together anyway. I know I'm getting off-topic here, but still, that needed to be said. To me, Bloodhound was just a guy I was wrestling that night. Just two ships passing in the night, so to speak.
But, Bloodhound decided to change all that. Rather than accepting his loss and moving on. Rather than watch the match and refocus his career... He decided that after I beat him, that he was going to attack me. That he was going to get revenge. Maybe to make himself feel better, maybe because he gets off on it, I don't know. But the point is...he did it.
And apparently doesn't take too kindly to retaliation of any kind. I cost him a match and its "blah blah blah, I got screwed." Because Bloodhound is a big baby. Let's get the facts straight, I was well on my way to figuring out how to beat Kuk Killswitch, when Bloodhound attacked me from behind. And he cost me a chance at the X-Core title. I in turn cost him a regular match. So who really got screwed here?
He cost me an opportunity at a title. I cost him a singles match as revenge. Do you see me crying about it?...until now?
So now, At Aftershock, Bloodhound and I are going to fight. The winner gets a shot at the MPW Television title. And we're going to put this little story to bed. I know I can beat Bloodhound, and I plan to. But I know he's listening, the rage building to that crazy huge vein on his forehead. So I want you to listen to me Bloodhound. Listen to what I say, and learn from it.
This isn't about the TV title. That's an added bonus.
This isn't about gender.
This isn't even about Fantasy and reality.
This is about me. Kicking the crap out of you. Again.
Yeah, Do you know why? because I'm better than you Bloodhound. It wasn't a fluke when I beat you last month, nor will it be this time when I do it again. Just remember this pally boy, you brought this on yourself. All of the sneak attacks, all of the trash talk, all the misery you've caused, all of it, will be paid back to you tenfold. Once again, I will beat you in the ring. Once again sending you back to the bottom of the rankings where you belong. The hero will triumph in the end, because that's what I do, and once you're out of my way, and out of my life, I'll continue to win, and you'll just have to deal with it.
But, if after Aftershock, you're still not convinced I'm better than you...you're always welcome to try and try again.
[/i]
[ Sirens wail in the background..
Roxi stands on the roof of a building, staring down at a burning building about a half mile away. She has her arms folded across her chest as if trying to keep warm. Her costume is in tatters, with huge shreds fabric missing, of so she has a reason to do this.
But it's not the reason.
She stares off at the fire, and she's unmasked. And tears are rolling down her face. As the sirens blare, she drops her head, almost in shame... ]
There are some nights, some days, some times I wonder if I make the right choices. I wonder if what I'm doing makes any difference whatsoever.
And then there's some nights I want to quit. Just give up.
How many times can you save the world before it gets to be a burden? And how many times can you put yourself at risk before it's just not worth it?
When I took the hero's oath, I meant it. Sometimes, it's what keeps me going.
But then, there's nights like tonight.[/i]
[ Now that we've successfully "Tarintino'd" our story, I guess we need to begin at the beginning. ]
Vision - What's this all about?
Roxi - I want some superpowers.
Vision - Uh, alright.
Roxi - Know a place I can get them?
Vision - No. You can't just obtain superpowers Roxi. It doesn't work that way. Most are burdened by them anyway.
Roxi - But it's not fair. I am extremely handicapped here.
Vision - You've survived.
Roxi - But Vision...it's powers!
Vision - Do you know how lucky you'd have to be to have gamma radiation not kill you? Or not be poisoned to death by a radioactive insect?
Roxi - Not really.
Vision - Extremely. The chances of that happening are microscopic.
Roxi - So there's nothing?
Vision - No.
Roxi - Are you sure?
Vision - Nothing. Nothing definite anyway.
Roxi - ....So...there's a chance?
Vision - Forget I said anything.
Roxi - Just...humor me.
Vision - *sigh* Fine, Dr. Bill Birkin is doing research with cells. There's nothing concrete, just theories.
Roxi - About what?
Vision - His work may, if he's right, which is...a HUGE shot in the dark...may help regrow limbs and damaged tissue.
Roxi - How is he doing that?
Vision - With...Pig Bladders.
Roxi - Shut up!
Vision - I'm serious.
Roxi - So...what's the hold-up?
Vision - There's no way to know if it works. But, if you're really that desperate...
Roxi - I am.
Vision - He's speaking at USC this week.
Roxi - I'll be there.
[ Suddenly there's a knock at the door ]
Voice -
Oh crap. I totally forgot! [/i]
Vision - Who is that?
Roxi - It's Claire!
Vision - Who's Claire?
Roxi - No time to explain, just...act natural.
Vision - Natural?
Roxi - Just do it!
Vision - You're still in your costume.
Roxi - I know!
[ After shedding her costume and hiding it, Roxi answers the door and a tall, lanky, brunette wearing six inch heels is outside smiling. Roxi hugs her. ]
Claire - Hey girl, how you been?
Roxi - I'm...I'm great.
Claire - You...forgot I was coming didn't you?
Roxi - Of course not! ....why would you think that?
Claire - You're not wearing any pants.
Crap.
Roxi - ...Yeah, I do that from time to time. It's just me here anyway. C'mon in.
[ Roxi lets Claire in, and she drops her stuff off. ]
Roxi - Well...this is it.
Claire - Nice place. Great view.
Roxi - Aw, thanks.
Claire - Must cost a fortune.
Roxi - I get paid pretty well.
Claire - I know, big famous wrestler and all.
Roxi - Bah, nice of you to say, but I...I'm not famous.
Claire - Well, You do well.
[ Claire looks around the apartment finally taking a seat at Vision's computer. ]
Claire - Do you know what the weather's going to be like?
Roxi - Nope, haven't had a chance to look yet.
Claire - Well, let's look now.
Roxi - Wait!
[ It's too late as Claire touches the computer and Vision's face pops up ]
Claire - AHHH!
Roxi - It's not what it looks like.
Claire - Really?
Roxi - No.
Claire - I think I know what's going on here.
Roxi - You do?
[ Claire stands up and walks toward Roxi with a smirk on her face. ]
She knows...terrific.
Claire - (Whispering) You and him...were...
Wait...she thinks....
Roxi - ...Yes. Yes we were.
Claire - No wonder you weren't wearing pants.
Roxi - Yeah. Can't sneak anything by you.
Claire - You don't need to hide your relationships from me. Even if it is a little....kinky.
Roxi - *nervous chuckle* yeah.
Claire - So...aren't you going to introduce him?
Roxi - Uh...sure. Claire...this is....
Vision - Leon.
Roxi - Leon.
Vision - Pleasure to meet you Claire.
Claire - Likewise.
Roxi - So..uh, Leon, I'm sure you have things to do.
Vision - Yes...Well, I'll be back later. Just call if you need me.
Roxi - Right.
[ With that, Vision logs off. Roxi takes a deep breath.]
Claire - You okay?
Roxi - What!? Fine.
Claire - You sure?
Roxi - Yeah. Nothing a little shopping won't fix.
Claire - Well, I think you need pants for that.
Roxi - *nervous laugh* You're right.
Claire - I'll wait.
Okay, that...could have been worse.
Claire has been my friend since the 3rd grade. She grew up the next street over, directly behind my house. We've done everything together...
Not that way, you freaks...
Anyway, after high school she went off to Northwestern. I stayed here and read comic books. Some of us make poor choices sometimes. Don't judge me. So, she's back in town for a little while to...she what she was missing I guess. We kept in contact and I did offer to let her stay with me. A fact that I promptly forgot. With her here, it's going to hard to get out. But I gotta make something work. And keep my secret.
No sweat.
[ Roxi and Claire get their shop on, and we get a montage. ]
Listen to "Hungry eyes" while imagining.
[ Again with the Hungry eyes? ]
What?
[ A bit Lesbian-ish, don't you think? ]
....You win this round Narrator.
[ Let's just say it's "Crazy" by Aerosmith. ]
Deal.
[ Moving on. Day is now night and we're back at the apartment. ]
Roxi - Well...I'm beat.
Claire - Me too.
Roxi - You can...have the bedroom.
Claire - Oh, I couldn't.
Roxi - It's cool.
Claire - You sure?
Roxi - Not a lot of things going on in there anyway. I'll take the couch.
Claire - ....I...Alright.
Roxi - You're my guest. Just...don't ruin my sheets. This isn't a hotel.
Claire - Ha. Ha. Ha.
Roxi - Good night.
Claire - Good night.
[ Claire disappears into the bedroom, and Roxi makes a mad dash to grab her costume. She starts to undress to put it on. But has to quickly cover herself with a blanket when Claire opens the door. ]
Claire - Hey uh...
Roxi - What?!
Claire - ...Just wanted to know if you wanted to shower first.
Roxi - Uh...no...you can go first.
Claire - You sure?
Roxi - Positive.
Claire - Alright. So...jumpy.
[ Claire shuts the door and Roxi resumes putting her outfit on, and after Claire enters the shower, she places a few pillows and covers them with the blanket, before tip-toeing out of the window of the apartment. ]
Hopefully that keeps her out of trouble while I go see Dr. Birkin.
[ Flash to USC Campus, and Dr. Birkin in the medical lab there. Even after hours Birkin is there going over notes and reviewing everything he needs. ]
Roxi - Knock Knock.
Dr. Birkin - (Startled) Who are you?
Roxi - I'm Lady Bedlam, and...Dr. Birkin I could really use you're help.
Dr. Birkin - How can I help you?
Roxi - Is what you say true? Can you give people the ability to heal from any wound?
Dr. Birkin - In theory, yes....Wait, why are you so curious?
Roxi - I'm hoping that it works, so that I can use it...for good that is.
Dr. Birkin - It's only a theory, my dear.
Roxi - How does it work?
Dr. Birkin - Have you ever heard of the extra-cellular matrix?
Roxi - I'm not good with computers. Or Chemistry.
Dr. Birkin - No no. This is Biology
Roxi - Oh, that too.
Dr. Birkin - The ECM is inside of pig bladders and human fetuses. It prevents and repairs injuries that happen inside the womb. In it's powder form, when applied to skin, it forces cells to re-grow lost and damaged tissue.
Roxi - But that's just a theory
Dr. Birkin - Until I can test it on a human subject. But that will take a brave soul.
Roxi - .... Twist my arm why don't you?
Dr. Birkin - It's too dangerous.
Roxi - Doctor, I'm willing to help if it helps us both.
Dr. Birkin - I can't. It's not worth it.
Roxi - It is to me. I'll be back tomorrow. And you're going to do it.
Dr. Birkin - I can't.
[ Roxi shoots off a grappling hook and flies out through an open window. Seconds after she leaves, the door is blown off the entrance to the lab. In his wheelchair, accompanied by serveral armed guards is Harold Peterson.
Harold - Hello, Doctor.
Dr. Birkin - Who are you?
Harold - A man who can use your talents.
Dr. Birkin - ...
Dr. Birkin looked excited about what his discovery could do.
Although I feel like a bully for what I said to him. I should apologize to him. I'll do it when I go back. Now I feel bad.
What else could go wrong?
[ Roxi makes the climb along the rooftops and re-enters her apartment, pulling off her mask before.... ]
Claire - Roxi?
Roxi - Uh....Hi..
Great.
I have studied the human body and how to break it down for years. Pressure points, arteries, how to instantly take people down as quickly as possible.
But, I'm still human.
Yeah, I know, there's plenty of superheroes out there without powers. But sadly, I'm not a billionaire with a sweet ride, or a genius inventor. Heck, I barely passed Chemistry in High School. But that's the only thing that keeps me grounded. The fact that I am human. The fact that I do what seems impossible for a ordinary human to do.
I guess what I'm really getting at here is....
I don't have any superpowers, and it totally sucks.
You know, I would love to able to fly, or have super strength, or be invisible. But, sadly, I can't. Stupid Science no making it possible. Nope, I gotta use my motorcycle. Plus I heard bad things about invisibility. So scratch that one maybe. In the end, I just want to be happy with my life.
But, some people just can't let me be happy. Some people can't things go. Some people can't leave well enough alone....
...Some people need to stop adding cleche's and get to the point.
I never wanted or asked for a problem with Bloodhound. To me, he was just another guy on the roster. I mean, no less than 8 guys here have propositioned me for sex anyway, so all their faces just blend together anyway. I know I'm getting off-topic here, but still, that needed to be said. To me, Bloodhound was just a guy I was wrestling that night. Just two ships passing in the night, so to speak.
But, Bloodhound decided to change all that. Rather than accepting his loss and moving on. Rather than watch the match and refocus his career... He decided that after I beat him, that he was going to attack me. That he was going to get revenge. Maybe to make himself feel better, maybe because he gets off on it, I don't know. But the point is...he did it.
And apparently doesn't take too kindly to retaliation of any kind. I cost him a match and its "blah blah blah, I got screwed." Because Bloodhound is a big baby. Let's get the facts straight, I was well on my way to figuring out how to beat Kuk Killswitch, when Bloodhound attacked me from behind. And he cost me a chance at the X-Core title. I in turn cost him a regular match. So who really got screwed here?
He cost me an opportunity at a title. I cost him a singles match as revenge. Do you see me crying about it?...until now?
So now, At Aftershock, Bloodhound and I are going to fight. The winner gets a shot at the MPW Television title. And we're going to put this little story to bed. I know I can beat Bloodhound, and I plan to. But I know he's listening, the rage building to that crazy huge vein on his forehead. So I want you to listen to me Bloodhound. Listen to what I say, and learn from it.
This isn't about the TV title. That's an added bonus.
This isn't about gender.
This isn't even about Fantasy and reality.
This is about me. Kicking the crap out of you. Again.
Yeah, Do you know why? because I'm better than you Bloodhound. It wasn't a fluke when I beat you last month, nor will it be this time when I do it again. Just remember this pally boy, you brought this on yourself. All of the sneak attacks, all of the trash talk, all the misery you've caused, all of it, will be paid back to you tenfold. Once again, I will beat you in the ring. Once again sending you back to the bottom of the rankings where you belong. The hero will triumph in the end, because that's what I do, and once you're out of my way, and out of my life, I'll continue to win, and you'll just have to deal with it.
But, if after Aftershock, you're still not convinced I'm better than you...you're always welcome to try and try again.
[/i]
[ Sirens wail in the background..
Roxi stands on the roof of a building, staring down at a burning building about a half mile away. She has her arms folded across her chest as if trying to keep warm. Her costume is in tatters, with huge shreds fabric missing, of so she has a reason to do this.
But it's not the reason.
She stares off at the fire, and she's unmasked. And tears are rolling down her face. As the sirens blare, she drops her head, almost in shame... ]
There are some nights, some days, some times I wonder if I make the right choices. I wonder if what I'm doing makes any difference whatsoever.
And then there's some nights I want to quit. Just give up.
How many times can you save the world before it gets to be a burden? And how many times can you put yourself at risk before it's just not worth it?
When I took the hero's oath, I meant it. Sometimes, it's what keeps me going.
But then, there's nights like tonight.[/i]
[ Now that we've successfully "Tarintino'd" our story, I guess we need to begin at the beginning. ]
Vision - What's this all about?
Roxi - I want some superpowers.
Vision - Uh, alright.
Roxi - Know a place I can get them?
Vision - No. You can't just obtain superpowers Roxi. It doesn't work that way. Most are burdened by them anyway.
Roxi - But it's not fair. I am extremely handicapped here.
Vision - You've survived.
Roxi - But Vision...it's powers!
Vision - Do you know how lucky you'd have to be to have gamma radiation not kill you? Or not be poisoned to death by a radioactive insect?
Roxi - Not really.
Vision - Extremely. The chances of that happening are microscopic.
Roxi - So there's nothing?
Vision - No.
Roxi - Are you sure?
Vision - Nothing. Nothing definite anyway.
Roxi - ....So...there's a chance?
Vision - Forget I said anything.
Roxi - Just...humor me.
Vision - *sigh* Fine, Dr. Bill Birkin is doing research with cells. There's nothing concrete, just theories.
Roxi - About what?
Vision - His work may, if he's right, which is...a HUGE shot in the dark...may help regrow limbs and damaged tissue.
Roxi - How is he doing that?
Vision - With...Pig Bladders.
Roxi - Shut up!
Vision - I'm serious.
Roxi - So...what's the hold-up?
Vision - There's no way to know if it works. But, if you're really that desperate...
Roxi - I am.
Vision - He's speaking at USC this week.
Roxi - I'll be there.
[ Suddenly there's a knock at the door ]
Voice -
Oh crap. I totally forgot! [/i]
Vision - Who is that?
Roxi - It's Claire!
Vision - Who's Claire?
Roxi - No time to explain, just...act natural.
Vision - Natural?
Roxi - Just do it!
Vision - You're still in your costume.
Roxi - I know!
[ After shedding her costume and hiding it, Roxi answers the door and a tall, lanky, brunette wearing six inch heels is outside smiling. Roxi hugs her. ]
Claire - Hey girl, how you been?
Roxi - I'm...I'm great.
Claire - You...forgot I was coming didn't you?
Roxi - Of course not! ....why would you think that?
Claire - You're not wearing any pants.
Crap.
Roxi - ...Yeah, I do that from time to time. It's just me here anyway. C'mon in.
[ Roxi lets Claire in, and she drops her stuff off. ]
Roxi - Well...this is it.
Claire - Nice place. Great view.
Roxi - Aw, thanks.
Claire - Must cost a fortune.
Roxi - I get paid pretty well.
Claire - I know, big famous wrestler and all.
Roxi - Bah, nice of you to say, but I...I'm not famous.
Claire - Well, You do well.
[ Claire looks around the apartment finally taking a seat at Vision's computer. ]
Claire - Do you know what the weather's going to be like?
Roxi - Nope, haven't had a chance to look yet.
Claire - Well, let's look now.
Roxi - Wait!
[ It's too late as Claire touches the computer and Vision's face pops up ]
Claire - AHHH!
Roxi - It's not what it looks like.
Claire - Really?
Roxi - No.
Claire - I think I know what's going on here.
Roxi - You do?
[ Claire stands up and walks toward Roxi with a smirk on her face. ]
She knows...terrific.
Claire - (Whispering) You and him...were...
Wait...she thinks....
Roxi - ...Yes. Yes we were.
Claire - No wonder you weren't wearing pants.
Roxi - Yeah. Can't sneak anything by you.
Claire - You don't need to hide your relationships from me. Even if it is a little....kinky.
Roxi - *nervous chuckle* yeah.
Claire - So...aren't you going to introduce him?
Roxi - Uh...sure. Claire...this is....
Vision - Leon.
Roxi - Leon.
Vision - Pleasure to meet you Claire.
Claire - Likewise.
Roxi - So..uh, Leon, I'm sure you have things to do.
Vision - Yes...Well, I'll be back later. Just call if you need me.
Roxi - Right.
[ With that, Vision logs off. Roxi takes a deep breath.]
Claire - You okay?
Roxi - What!? Fine.
Claire - You sure?
Roxi - Yeah. Nothing a little shopping won't fix.
Claire - Well, I think you need pants for that.
Roxi - *nervous laugh* You're right.
Claire - I'll wait.
Okay, that...could have been worse.
Claire has been my friend since the 3rd grade. She grew up the next street over, directly behind my house. We've done everything together...
Not that way, you freaks...
Anyway, after high school she went off to Northwestern. I stayed here and read comic books. Some of us make poor choices sometimes. Don't judge me. So, she's back in town for a little while to...she what she was missing I guess. We kept in contact and I did offer to let her stay with me. A fact that I promptly forgot. With her here, it's going to hard to get out. But I gotta make something work. And keep my secret.
No sweat.
[ Roxi and Claire get their shop on, and we get a montage. ]
Listen to "Hungry eyes" while imagining.
[ Again with the Hungry eyes? ]
What?
[ A bit Lesbian-ish, don't you think? ]
....You win this round Narrator.
[ Let's just say it's "Crazy" by Aerosmith. ]
Deal.
[ Moving on. Day is now night and we're back at the apartment. ]
Roxi - Well...I'm beat.
Claire - Me too.
Roxi - You can...have the bedroom.
Claire - Oh, I couldn't.
Roxi - It's cool.
Claire - You sure?
Roxi - Not a lot of things going on in there anyway. I'll take the couch.
Claire - ....I...Alright.
Roxi - You're my guest. Just...don't ruin my sheets. This isn't a hotel.
Claire - Ha. Ha. Ha.
Roxi - Good night.
Claire - Good night.
[ Claire disappears into the bedroom, and Roxi makes a mad dash to grab her costume. She starts to undress to put it on. But has to quickly cover herself with a blanket when Claire opens the door. ]
Claire - Hey uh...
Roxi - What?!
Claire - ...Just wanted to know if you wanted to shower first.
Roxi - Uh...no...you can go first.
Claire - You sure?
Roxi - Positive.
Claire - Alright. So...jumpy.
[ Claire shuts the door and Roxi resumes putting her outfit on, and after Claire enters the shower, she places a few pillows and covers them with the blanket, before tip-toeing out of the window of the apartment. ]
Hopefully that keeps her out of trouble while I go see Dr. Birkin.
[ Flash to USC Campus, and Dr. Birkin in the medical lab there. Even after hours Birkin is there going over notes and reviewing everything he needs. ]
Roxi - Knock Knock.
Dr. Birkin - (Startled) Who are you?
Roxi - I'm Lady Bedlam, and...Dr. Birkin I could really use you're help.
Dr. Birkin - How can I help you?
Roxi - Is what you say true? Can you give people the ability to heal from any wound?
Dr. Birkin - In theory, yes....Wait, why are you so curious?
Roxi - I'm hoping that it works, so that I can use it...for good that is.
Dr. Birkin - It's only a theory, my dear.
Roxi - How does it work?
Dr. Birkin - Have you ever heard of the extra-cellular matrix?
Roxi - I'm not good with computers. Or Chemistry.
Dr. Birkin - No no. This is Biology
Roxi - Oh, that too.
Dr. Birkin - The ECM is inside of pig bladders and human fetuses. It prevents and repairs injuries that happen inside the womb. In it's powder form, when applied to skin, it forces cells to re-grow lost and damaged tissue.
Roxi - But that's just a theory
Dr. Birkin - Until I can test it on a human subject. But that will take a brave soul.
Roxi - .... Twist my arm why don't you?
Dr. Birkin - It's too dangerous.
Roxi - Doctor, I'm willing to help if it helps us both.
Dr. Birkin - I can't. It's not worth it.
Roxi - It is to me. I'll be back tomorrow. And you're going to do it.
Dr. Birkin - I can't.
[ Roxi shoots off a grappling hook and flies out through an open window. Seconds after she leaves, the door is blown off the entrance to the lab. In his wheelchair, accompanied by serveral armed guards is Harold Peterson.
Harold - Hello, Doctor.
Dr. Birkin - Who are you?
Harold - A man who can use your talents.
Dr. Birkin - ...
Dr. Birkin looked excited about what his discovery could do.
Although I feel like a bully for what I said to him. I should apologize to him. I'll do it when I go back. Now I feel bad.
What else could go wrong?
[ Roxi makes the climb along the rooftops and re-enters her apartment, pulling off her mask before.... ]
Claire - Roxi?
Roxi - Uh....Hi..
Great.
