Vanguard #20 (05/24/23)

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We cut backstage to find one half of the HYBRID Global Tag Team Champions, Gigi Nova sitting on a stack of crates with a bottle of water in her hand, her championship belt draped across her lap. Her head is hanging down slightly, letting her hair obscure her face until she raises it just enough to take a sip of water. As she casts the slightest sideways glance, the flash of a smirk forms on her face as she puts the cap on her water bottle.

Gigi Nova: I normally don’t do this. Usually, I just hang back and focus on getting ready for my match. But things are different now. Now, I have this.

She picks up her championship and holds it up in view of the camera, her gaze fixed on the center plate.

Gigi Nova: And holding this championship means that I have to do a hell of a lot more than just hole up in the locker room and get ready…

She shakes her head, returning the championship belt to its original place on her lap.

Gigi Nova: I’m sure that there are those out there that think “What is this rookie doing holding a championship?” I’m sure there are those that look at me and think that I was just in the right place at the right time, and with the right partner; that I lucked my way into a championship. And I’d be lying if there was a part of me that thinks that they’d be right…

She clears her throat.

Gigi Nova: No… that’s the sort of thinking that Lorenzo keeps saying will do a hell of a lot more harm than good. He’s right. Yeah, I’m still a rookie. Yeah, I’ve got a long way to go before I can even lay claim to HALF of the achievements Sam Tolson has under her belt. And believe me when I say how glad I am to have someone with her experience as a tag team partner.

She pauses to take another drink of water, this one a much longer pull. Afterward, she lets out a loud gasp as she pulls the 3/4-empty bottle away from her lips.

Gigi Nova: Tonight, it’s not necessarily about the Tag Team Championships, but I’m not taking this match lightly just because the titles aren’t on the line. I’m stepping into the ring with the man who up until a little over a month ago was sitting on the very top of the mountain as the Global Heavyweight Champion. I know damn well what a win tonight could mean for me, even if the odds against me are HUGE!

She hops down from the crate, moving her championship belt over her shoulder. She then finishes her water bottle, tossing it into a nearby trashcan. Her expression sharpens into a determined glare as her eyes lock onto the camera.

Gigi Nova: Eddy Todd, the Beggar King… there’s no denying that you’re one of the toughest motherfuckers in this company. You don’t hold onto a championship for five months by sitting on your ass. But this “rookie” isn’t going to lay down and let you run roughshod all over that ring. No…

Her voice takes on a more defiant tone as she narrows her eyes.

Gigi Nova: Tonight is about proving to the world - and better yet, myself - that not only do I deserve to be one half of the Global Tag Team Champions, but that I’m just as capable of taking on the best this company has to offer.

Tonight, you get to find out first hand just where the “Nova” in my name comes from.

She pauses, taking a deep breath before continuing.

Gigi Nova: I’ll see you in the ring, Eddy.

With that, she offers up a quick nod, then walks out of frame as the scene cuts away.

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Cordelia Clark has plenty to think about as she finds herself backstage. She also happens to be a bit deep in thought as well considering the frustrating events of two weeks ago. Through it all, she is doing the best that she can to keep herself composed. Still, after two frustrating shows in a row, this could very well be difficult for the former Vanguard Champion as she begins to express her thoughts.

Cordelia Clark:For the second time in a row, I found myself in a Vanguard Championship match against Aleki Kokoa… and it didn’t go the way I wanted it to…

Cordelia pauses as she lets out an angry sigh over this.

Cordelia Clark:At least this time, it wasn’t a total loss… but that’s one of the few good things that I can take away from it because apparently, he had friends in other places that just happened to want to be involved in the fray. I don’t know the most information about Brianna Matthews aside from the fact that I’ve seen a few tapes of her to study how she carries herself and she comes across as a total yuppie to me. Effectively, she’s someone that I would’ve become had I had the demeanor that you would’ve expected to see out of someone that went to an Ivy League college… or she’s someone that reminds me so much of my cousin and not in a good way…

But either way? WHY did she have to be involved? Funny, isn’t it, Aleki? You’re going to run and hide behind her skirt now? Is that it? See, I’m not exactly sure WHY you would feel the need to have to grab her from her other companies to come here… or maybe I do. Maybe it’s because you thought when you won that title from me, you were going to just move along, right? I know that you welcomed the rematch between us on the surface but in light of what happened two weeks ago? I sincerely question if that was even genuine at lal.

In fact, I am going to go out on a limb and say “NOPE”...

Being completely honest with you, you knew Brianna was coming. This was in the works well before this rematch was even a thing and THAT is why you were so hyped up for it and wanted to go through with it because you knew you were going to go into our match with an advantage. That’s so crazy though… someone like you, supposedly strong and everything, feeling the need to have this nefarious plot… or maybe it wasn’t a plot… but everything just HAD to line up SO beautifully almost as if you had a plan…

Which leads me to questioning why you feel you had to resort to that to try to beat me in the rematch at all. You know you got away with one, Aleki. You don’t have the damn balls or the damn confidence to prove that it wasn’t a fluke all on your own. You tried to be intimidating, but how the hell can I be intimidated by someone that needs someone else to do their bidding? Now thank goodness for Iida and all… yet…

Cordelia pauses once more, but lets out a sigh. One would thing that she would be glad to have a partner, but there is something that is clearly grinding her gears.

Cordelia Clark:Was it genuine on her part? Was she out there to really do the right thing? Because shortly after that, she tweeted something that really made me question it: something along the lines of sending a message to the Vanguard Champion? So Iida, were your actions truly heroic or was it just to get inside Aleki’s head, huh? Because ultimately, this is between him and I when it comes to the Vanguard Championship. After I regain it from that bastard, I’ll be glad to give you a shot if you want it, but that tweet that you made honestly came off pretty damn wrong. Still, even with that? I don’t think you’re going to be in this to screw me over. I can still work with you and all of that. But ultimately? I do wish you had purer intentions than that. Either way, we’ve got to have this match. We WILL have this match and this ZERO on my record when it comes to Aleki? You can bet that I’m erasing it even though this IS a tag team match.

Because honestly?

I think my frustration with things as far as Aleki is concerned is beginning to linger longer than it normally would with anyone else…

Cordelia takes a deep breath as she tries to calm herself down and then from there, she makes her exit.

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Iida Matsuda walks around backstage prior to her tag match with Cordelia Clark to face Aleki Kekoa and Brianna Matthews. As she walks she greets the backstage crew because this is the match. Her first time since her return to HYBRID Wrestling, she slung a towel over her shoulder before she met Dennis Folsom. Iida smiled at Dennis before shaking hands with him. Dennis hands Iida the mic and Iida takes the mic and stands next to Dennis.

Dennis Folsom: Hello everyone, now I'm standing with someone who just signed a contract with HYBRID Wrestling, but she's not here, we've seen her a long time ago, now she's back. I won't have to waste any more time introducing her since we just watched her match a few minutes ago. Today I'm with Iida Matsuda, welcome back to HYBRID Wrestling! This is your first official return match but we saw you two weeks ago when you came out to help Cordelia from Aleki and Brianna! And today you’re about to fight with them. Now, I want to know how your feelings are!

Iida Matsuda: First of all, I would like to thank all the staff here for welcoming me back so warmly, it was something I really didn't expect to happen to someone like me. You know, when I first ran away from here, I was like a coward. I didn't expect that I would be welcomed back like this. I'm really grateful. And secondly, thank you to the fans who supported me when I came back here two weeks ago, their cheers were really amazing. I don't know how to explain it but it was a memorable night for me. And of course thanks to the boss for signing me back. I finished pursuing my dreams in Japan but I haven't forgotten my dreams here that I left behind, this is why I came back here. Of course, when I return, I won't do the things I used to do again, I won't run away like a coward again. I'm back here and I'm more ready than ever. I am a new person ready to fight every hurdle I will face, now I have picked up my dreams to dust again and now I am ready to go forward until I follow my dreams and succeed. I don't know how long it will take until my dream is fulfilled, but for sure, coming back this time, I won't give up again. I see my future as the most important and this will be my career advancement. And when this place gives me a second chance I will definitely take this opportunity and not disappoint the people who brought me back here for bringing me back. And I will remember every second they supported me. And someday we will meet again when we reach the day that I succeed. And tonight was once again they showed me their amazing support and of course, I remember every moment since my return here. I will not waste what they support me. I will keep it as my driving force to achieve my dreams here. I think soon I might hold a fanmeet to repay them all. I want to thank them closely for supporting people like me. But now I have to concentrate on what is coming first. Regardless of the upcoming matches and whatever is to come, I'll focus on what the boss will give me first. I'm more interested in what's in front of me than what's outside. So now I want to improve my skills as much as I can. I don't want anyone to be disappointed in me, and like I said, this comeback for me. I didn't come back to play anyone's game. I'm back to play my game and be the best here. And I don't want anyone to look down on my abilities. So I will do anything until they can no longer insult me.

Dennis Folsom: So do you have anything to say to Aleki and Brianna after what happened between you guys for the second show in a row?

Iida Matsuda: I wanted to tell them that they should have thought more carefully about what they were going to do because after all of his victims there would be me to protect them from people like them. I will protect anyone from Aleki or Brianna's mindless attack, or whoever thinks of doing so. I won't let it happen to anyone else because it's something no one can accept. I know no fan can accept seeing their world champions do that. Especially people who are world champions need to think more about whether what they do is deserved or not. But after this, no matter who he attacks, he will definitely find me. I'll annoy him, but I don't care. I will help his victims. He must have thought that I would come back and do some nonsense here, but no, I'm here to make things better. I just wanted to let him know that before he did something, he had to think a lot because if he didn't want to meet me, he would stop doing it. Because if he thinks of doing it, the first person he will meet, of course, will be me. I don't care if he thinks of attacking me or not, if he does, I dare you to try because he knows I won't let him go either. If this is what a world champion thinks, then I don't think he deserves much. I will no longer let him do what he wants. He will stop me and never let anything unfair happen to anyone ever again. And if you want me to challenge your champion, Aleki, I'm waiting for that opportunity. But of course it's the boss's decision and yours, I won't interfere but I'll wait and see how brave you are to let me become your challenger, Aleki. I'm not back here to play the game. yours And I think the time has come for a new, more dignified and dignified leader here. When the time comes, I'll kick you off your throne. When it's time for us to face each other, when will I hunt you? And know that this won't be the last time we face each other for sure.

Iida finished speaking before she smiled at Dennis before she shook hands once more before Iida walked away before the scene turned to black.



Back in the catering area of the State Farm Arena, Forge is holding court with his security team. The dozen-or-so men and ladies, who have more than once proven themselves as capable of handling things, are getting what appears to be something along the lines of a… pep talk? No, that’s not Forge’s M.O. Compliments, perhaps? Well, the big fellow doesn’t seem agitated, so maybe it’s not that. But there’s pride in that team and it shows. Forge pauses for a sip of coffee before nodding and gesturing for them to get moving. The team disperses to their proper areas and he walks over to the heated container, getting a refill when someone walks right up to him without turning a hair.

Bernadette Olson: They held down the fort well while he was on… I guess you’d call it a forced vacation?

Jacob Frankel: That or AMV didn’t want a fragile peace ruined by Forge’s temper. I like the guy, but he doesn’t let things go. Even he’d admit it.

Bernadette Olson: As long as he gets the job done, I say let him do it his way. I certainly won’t get tired of seeing it.

Easy to imagine Jacob laughing and rolling his eyes at his partner’s… quasi-infatuation with the Chrome Dragons MC. But there’s the matter of the new arrival still, who Forge is just now taking notice of.

Bernadette Olson: I wonder who this is, though?

Jacob Frankel: Ya got me. Never seen ‘em before. Looks buff as hell, though! Maybe a fan?

Unknown Woman: Quite the fuckin’ team o’ lads and lasses ya’ll got keepin’ this place in check here, Forge.

The voice is instantly recognizable as the fans cheer wildly as HYBRID alumni and Shieldmaiden, Becca “Bruiser” Maguire turns around showing off her face as she clutches a cup of coffee in her hand.

Bernadette Olson: Oh boy! That ain’t no fan, Jacob! That’s Becca “Bruiser” Maguire!

Jacob Frankel: A bonafide legend in this industry… but what is she doing here in HYBRID?

Turning slowly to meet the gaze of the powerhouse, Forge cracks a rare smile and pulls the Bruiser in for a large hug. Old riding buddies meeting up again. Forge takes a step back, a hand on Bruiser’s shoulder as he looks her up and down.

Forge: Lookin’ good, Becca. Been a long damn time. How’re you gettin’ on?

Becca “Bruiser” Maguire: Cheers, lad… lookin’ pretty good yaself. And well… I ain’t doin’ too bad. Bein’ a stay at home Mom ain’t always the most entertainin’ o’ lives but bein’ able to watch little RJ Jr. grow up makes it all worth it. Just figured I’d stop on by the ol’ stompin’ grounds since I kinda miss it.

Forge: Really don’t compare to bustin’ heads and makin’ green, but I get it. Gotta do right by your offspring. It’s good to see ya either way. For a moment there, I thought you might be lookin’ for work.

Becca “Bruiser” Maguire: Oh aye? Ya’ll got a job openin’ or somethin’?

Forge: Depends. You lookin’ to get back in the ring or would you rather do somethin’ less flashy? ‘Cause I could use a second to run security back here in case I get sent on another forced vacation.

Still not happy about that, Forge keeps the conversation and tone light. It’s obvious to everyone paying attention that he’s gonna have words with AMV about it later, though. And likely off-camera.

Becca “Bruiser” Maguire: Well as much as I’d love to get back in the rin’ again and roll some fuckin’ heads… my knee ain’t gonna allow that. However… if ya’ll are lookin’ for a second in command o’ ya security team? I’m the lass ya’ll are lookin’ for.

Nodding in satisfaction, the two tap coffee cups and take long swigs of the hot caffeine juice before Forge lowers his.

Forge: I doubt Vance will have a problem with that. And even if he does, I’ll give him the hard sell. For tonight, enjoy your time, Beck. I’ll have an answer for ya by tomorrow. After the show, we’ll get some of the crew together for old time’s sake.

Becca “Bruiser” Maguire: Sounds good, lad. Catch ya’ll later.

Bruiser then pats Forge on the shoulder a couple of times before she disappears off camera and we cut elsewhere.

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Sitting on a large black leather chair. Sporting a slightly different look. Wearing a simple light blue suit, the jacket was buttoned once in the middle, a solid white dress shirt, a blue and white floral print tie, and the Global Heavyweight Championship belt, folded neatly, across the lap of our champion.

Duke Andrews: I sit here fifty three days, and counting. Fifty three days as the man that runs this promotion. Fifty three days as your Global Heavyweight Champion. Fifty three days as the man. It’s been almost a full year since I said I was going to take my rightful place as the top dog in this company. Almost a full year since I said I would take the spot I never lost. And it happened. And that’s fitting because, what I have to say next, will also happen.

Duke took the title and unfolded the straps before placing it over his shoulder. Stretching out his legs, his brown dress shoes still planted firmly on the floor before him.

Duke Andrews: I could sit here and explain that what I said to Mikaela wasn’t my true feelings. I could sit there and say that I respect Eddy Todd, but that would just be forcing bullshit and lies down your faces. I do think Eddy is a massive piece of trash. I do think that Mikaela is disappointing her mom and dad from the depths of hell. But that doesn’t matter, does it?

As this aired, as it was previously recorded, you could hear the chorus of boos coming from the crowd.

Duke Andrews: I could sit back and tell you that Bianca Davis is the rightful heir to challenge for my title. But again, that would be a lie. See, Bianca, you’re not on my level. I tried to explain that to you but your inability to listen is going to cost you an asskicking that Alan should have given you weeks ago. You don’t have your crowd of beta males and ass kissers following you around here. You’re stuck in a disadvantage if you win tonight. You have to get in the ring and try and wrestle the greatest wrestler in the world, one on one. Don’t let me get this twisted, I think you’re a talent. But you’re a minor league talent. You’re not cut out for the majors, B. You’re not cut out to hang in my ring with me. This isn’t me telling you something you don’t already know, is it?

A brief pause as Duke looks down at the title draped over his shoulder. The gold of the title reflecting in the production lights.

Duke Andrews: When I staked my claim for the title, it wasn’t because I needed it. I don’t need the title, the title needs me. This title was held hostage by a clown and I’m the one that will bring the prestige to this thing that it deserved since day one. By doing that, I’m going into that ring night after night, show after show, Vanguard after Vanguard, and proving that I’m the goddamn pinnacle of this industry. And the four of you vying for your one opportunity to step into the ring with me, need to understand that when I talk about this title as mine, and that ring as mine, and this industry being my one and only, it’s not just lip service. It’s not just me filling the air with my words. No.

Duke shook his head softly.

Duke Andrews: It’s because none of you actually want to believe the truth. No one on this roster wants to believe that what I’m saying is the gods honest truth. And therein lies the problem. So again tonight I have to suit up and go down to that ring. Wait for some slapdick to walk down the ramp and think he can hang with me and expect that he can win and put his name on the shortlist of people that should challenge for my title. When the reality of the night will come back to slap Derrick in the face. Because he will prove the point I’ve been trying to get you to understand, no one is in my league. No one is on my level. No one. Not Mikaela.

Duke held up his right hand. Counting on his fingers.

Duke Andrews: Not Bianca. Not Stephanie or Sandra. Not Sam. Not Eddy. And definitely not Derrick Vayden. It’s not your fault that I’m superior to you. It’s not your fault that I was born better than you. But tonight, like the last time I was here, I’ll strap up and prove it.



Backstage at the State Farm Arena.

Melissa Tasman: All roads led here. Every point in my life had to end up here eventually. And what matters is what I do with it now.

This isn't just a contendership. This is the title fight. And already I have had the worst luck in bringing one back with me. That said, I never said anything about giving up. I'm not there and I will never be.

Nathaniel is convinced he has some kind of destiny. I don't know about that because that destiny put me in his path. Someone who doesn't bend with the wind. Someone who doesn't fold because of the stress. Battered, but never broken.

Put into the fire to come out even stronger.

Forged into the weapon no the warrior that says to destiny "its gonna happen my way." I promise one thing: no matter what I'll give the show worthy of the title.

And if or when I can pull it off, itll show what Im made from. The best materials to the best creation. Nathaniel, I will give you something you've never seen before.

Fade.

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Grave Savoy is sitting in a chair across from “Too Sexy” Tiffany Lynn Page who is sitting on the couch in the locker room she shares with Duke Andrews.

Grace Savoy: Thank you for meeting with me, Tiffany.

Tiffany smiles.

Grace Savoy: We saw your in ring debut at Vanguard #19 a couple of weeks ago. Which was an impressive showing.

Tiffany Lynn Page: Thank you, Grace.

Grace Savoy: So, what can we expect going forward now that your in ring debut is in the past?

Tiffany Lynn Page: Obviously like everyone else not only here in HYBRID and just in wrestling in general I want some championship gold.

Grace Savoy: Just like Duke.

Tiffany Lynn Page: Exactly, Grace. You get it. Now obviously Duke is the standard of HYBRID as the Global Champion and he should be because he is far better than all of you. As far as me goes I have my eye on this new couple who have come into HYBRID thinking they are king shit around here. Especially seeing how he came in and won the Vanguard Championship. That doesn’t sit well with me. Not only this couple thinking they can rank above Duke and I. So I must and I will take that Vanguard Championship from you, Aleki. It may not be today or even tomorrow but I will be the Vanguard Champion soon enough.

Grace Savoy: Strong words for Aleki and Brianna.

Tiffany Lynn Page: I’ll get to them in due time. I have other things to tend to for now.

Grace Savoy: Are you referring to the heat between Duke and your good friend, Bianca Davis?

Tiffany looks at Grace and shakes her head.

Tiffany Lynn Page: Of course I am referring to Duke and Bianca. I am not foolish enough to think that every person loves or even likes the partner their friend has chosen but this is business and I’d love for the people around me to be on the same page.

Grace Savoy: Seems like over the last couple weeks they have had some strong words about each other.

Tiffany Lynn Page: I would say so. I talked to each of them today about this situation and it didn’t go as well as I would have liked but they are both strong personalities so I can’t say that I am surprised about it going the way it did.But I’ll get what I want because I want us to get along so we can rule over HYBRID together.

Grace Savoy: That is a lofty goal.

Tiffany Lynn Page: It is but I always get what I want.

Grace Savoy: I am sure you have.

Tiffany Lynn Page: As I have gotten to see how HYBRID Wrestling operates and there are ways to achieve our goals.

Grace Savoy: Anything you can elaborate on?

Tiffany Lynn Page: Not totally yet. You will all find out when the time is right but I will say this. I have heard rumblings of a new young talent signing with HYBRID. This wrestler is a young third generation wrestler who shows a lot of promise. I see you, B-Brat.



We cut backstage to find Laura Pinkerton standing outside the office belonging to Aloysius Marcus Vance clutching some papers in her hands. Letting out a long sigh, she lightly knocks on the door before turning the handle and enters the room. The young blonde English woman surveys the room with a look of sadness on her face as she briefly catches Forge’s eye as he stands off to the side of AMV and she quickly averts his gaze due to being severely intimidated by him. She doesn’t even make eye contact with AMV who watches as she slowly walks up to his desk and places the documents onto the desk in front of AMV. Without saying a word or looking up, she nods before turning on her heel and makes her way back towards the office door.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Just a moment, Miss Pinkerton-

Begins Aloysius, taking a moment to look down at the papers before handing them to Forge. While the big man looks them over, AMV puts his full attention back on Laura.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: -as it would be rather unfair if you didn’t at least give me a chance to change your mind, wouldn’t you say?

His tone bears a touch more gentleness than usual. Clearly, those papers indicate serious business, though the nature of them is a mystery for a moment. Pinkerton stops in her tracks right before grabbing the door handle and letting out another sigh, she turns back with her head still down and her gaze focused on the floor.

Laura Pinkerton: Forgive me, Mr. Vance but… my mind is made up and I do not wish to make you waste anymore of your time. You will be better off giving my spot to someone else who deserves it.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: Using deserving as a barometer for who gets what is a slippery slope, Laura.

Replies AMV, getting out of his chair and walking around to the front of the desk, keeping his attention on Laura. For the moment, Forge remains silent.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: I feel like something else is going on here. Is someone in the locker room giving you problems? Are people trying to get into your head and tell you that you don’t belong? Because we have ways of dealing with that. I personally think you’re a valuable part of this roster and would hate to see you go.

Turning in the direction of Forge prompts the big man to put down the papers and fold his arms. He stares at the ground for a moment, considering his thoughts carefully, then responds quietly.

Forge: No one gets to tell you what’s what, kid. If you wanna wrestle, wrestle. If you wanna do something else, do that. But whatever you pick, make sure you’re doin’ it for you and not someone else who ain’t walked a mile in your shoes. The minute you start lettin’ other people determine the road you’re walkin’ is when bad shit starts happenin’. Take it from me.

Nodding in agreement, AMV turns back to Laura. For the first time, the young English woman makes eye contact with Vance, and even briefly looks over to Forge before then back to AMV.

Laura Pinkerton: I can assure you that there is nobody in the locker room causing problems for me personally, Sir. This is something that is one hundred percent my problem and… I don’t know… I don’t feel like myself anymore. But at the same time… with all of the negativity and hate in this industry? It’s exhausting being my true self.

She looks down to the floor again.

Laura Pinkerton: I love wrestling… I love going out there and hearing the roar of the crowd… I love meeting my fans and seeing the smiles on their faces. But… I feel like I need to find something else that I am passionate about because here… I am too depressed to do anything when I am not my true self… and I get too exhausted when I am my true self.

Tears begin to form in the corners of Pinkerton’s eyes and she does her best to keep her composure.

Laura Pinkerton: I truly appreciate the opportunity you have given me, Mr. Vance… and I am humbled to know that you consider me a valuable asset to your roster. But I’m afraid I cannot do this anymore.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: That’s truly a shame. But, even knowing what little I do about this business, I know that good-bye very rarely means forever. So!

AMV approaches her with a warm smile and extends his hand.

Aloysius Marcus Vance IV: At any point, if you feel that you want to return, just say the word. As a show of good faith, I’ll make sure Mrs. Crask pays out the full amount of the rest of your contract.

Upon Laura shaking AMV’s hand, Forge approaches her. Noting from earlier her trepidation in his presence, Forge crouches down a bit so he’s not looming over the young Englishwoman. He puts a heavy hand as gently as possible on her shoulder.

Forge: And if you need somethin’, even if it’s a good word to get you in the door of another company? Don’t hesitate to call, kid.

Laura nods as she wipes away the tears from her face.

Laura Pinkerton: Thank you. Both of you.

The young blonde then turns around and makes her way towards the door again when it suddenly bursts open as Ollie the Honorary Queen enters the office out of breath as though he’d been racing to the office.

Ollie the Honorary Queen Wait! Mr. Vance! Sir! Whatever you do, do not sign those release papers!

He then looks at Laura and the look on her face says it all.

Ollie the Honorary Queen It’s too late, isn’t it?

Pinkerton nods.

Laura Pinkerton: I’m sorry, Ollie. Take care of the Queens for me, yeah?

The English woman softly pats Ollie on the shoulder before then leaving the office as the Honorary Queen looks over to Vance and Forge before apologizing for bursting in and then leaves the office himself as we cut elsewhere.


Within the locker room of the Intellectual Evolution, Nathaniel Dixon stands in his ring attire, his earth-colored eyes on the monitor. A soft chuckle escapes his parted lips.

Nathaniel Dixon: Miss Tasman is quite a fiery youth. Her determination balances out her inexperience.

The camera zooms out a little to reveal his younger brother sitting on the couch. As always, the furnishings are top-notch. Even though he’s nervous, he finds comfort here.

Maximilian Dixon: Are you worried?

Nathaniel Dixon: Worried? No. I did my research. However, that doesn’t mean I am taking her lightly. Far from it.

This Nathaniel is… different. His confidence has returned. His ego has been tempered by the trials of humility. He credits his opponents and has been wrestling clean more often. Making his way over to the coffee table, he lifts the Styx Corporation Orcus Championship from the surface and holds it in both hands.

Nathaniel Dixon: It’s unfortunate that she believes I am “like other men of power”. There is no one like me. There never will be.

A gentle smile crosses Maximilian’s face and his eyes lighten up.

Maximilian Dixon: Earlier this month, you finally became a champion. Tonight, you have the opportunity to become a double champion. If you’re successful, then you have the opportunity to become a triple champion at the Calamity Chamber. How are you feeling?

The possibilities… Oh, the corners of Nathaniel’s lips curl up. Before he can answer, however, there’s a knock on the door. The Dixon Brothers look at one another before Nathaniel places his Orcus Championship across his left shoulder, makes his way over, and answers the door.

...Much to his displeasure.

Nathaniel Dixon: You…

The camera pans out and their father, Arthur Dixon, is standing there. Tall, dark, and always foreboding. The father and the eldest son glare at one another for a brief moment before Arthur regards Maximilian -- who’s uneasily risen to his feet.

Maximilian Dixon: F-father…

Arthur Dixon: Leave us.

Such a commanding presence. Nathaniel remains where he is, his eyes narrowed on Arthur. Maximilian is hesitant, perhaps uncertain, and he doesn’t move. Arthur scoffs.

Arthur Dixon: Do not make me repeat myself.

Maximilian Dixon: ...No.

It shocks Arthur. Did his second son just defy him? Even Nathaniel is caught off guard, breaking eye contact to face his younger brother who stands firm.

Maximilian Dixon: I… will not allow you to be near my brother… You will not hurt him anymore.

Fairly recently, Maximilian accidentally revealed the truth of Nathaniel’s past on Twitter. He was abused by their father. It was a shock to the system. Although their sister, Gwendolyn, told him to back off, it was already too late. The truth spread like wildfire and Nathaniel was no longer keeping it a secret. Even though Arthur grows silent, he glares at Maximilian for his defiance. Maximilian takes an uneasy step back and visibly swallows. Just as Arthur begins to take a step toward him, Nathaniel lifts his right arm to prevent him from taking another step.

Nathaniel Dixon: Thank you Max. It’s alright. Grab something from the Soul Garden catering and find your seat with the rest of our family. You don’t want to miss the main event, do you?

The Younger Dixon Brother parts his lips to say something, but he cannot find the words. He sighs softly and bows his head.

Maximilian Dixon: Very well. Good luck.

Raising his head, Maximilian stares at their father for a moment before he moves past the two. Arthur is beyond himself. Did the boy actually… He focuses on Nathaniel once more.

Arthur Dixon: No cameras. This is between you and me.

Nathaniel Dixon: The Iron Heart Championship match is literally next… But I’ll indulge you.

He regards the figure behind the camera and smiles. A gentle “shoo, shoo” and they’re politely dismissed from the locker room. The door is closed… and then there’s darkness.



For the viewers watching from wherever they are, the top right corner of the screen clearly reads Previously Recorded.

We return to the Beloved Haven of Hikaru Yamamoto-Page who has finished preparations. As per tradition, the painting of Sakura trees hangs on the wall opposite the door, the four marble pillars in the corners of the room hold up elegant Japanese vases, and the Japanese cypress wood coffee table sits in the center with a lovely tea set on top. There are cherry blossoms painted on this set. Around the table are a matching black leather recliner seat for one and a black leather couch for three. Naturally, behind the recliner is a small cooler. Brushing her hands along her simple yet elegant white dress, she looks up to the camera and politely bows.

Hikaru Page: Koni’chiwa, mi’naa. Good evening, everyone. Welcome to Hikaru’s Haven on HYBRID rEvolution! Watashi no name Peiji Hikaru.

This time, she is without her son, Minoru. It’s likely that he’s elsewhere with his father and her husband, Trenton Page. Of course, standing by the double doors is the CSO of HYBRID, Forge. Hikaru offers him a polite smile and he simply nods. She then reaches up and tucks a few strands of her dark hair behind her left ear.

Hikaru Page: In the aftermath of the nineteenth Vanguard, a request was made for an interview on the next show. I made the decision to offer the Haven to them. Personally, I believe it will make things easier to understand in the long run. As for who my special guests are? Well, allow me to introduce you… Please welcome Sanada Chiaki-san, Jēn Hāpā-san, to Rein-san!

On that cue, the double doors beside Forge open and the Gutter Ballet appear. Chiaki Sanada, often referred to as “Chi Chi '' and Jane Harper - collectively known as 2 Broke Chickz - and their stablemate Rain who’s probably the cooler-headed of the three. She’s also the only one who looks even remotely in a good mood at the moment; wearing a smile despite the look in her eyes letting on that things aren’t the same coming here without her bouncy partner GoGo at her side. Still, the three approach their seats, with Rain and Jane shaking hands with Hikaru. Chiaki exchanges a brief bow with the Haven’s host before they take their seats. Rain and Jane both seem intent on sitting Chiaki in between them with Rain closest to Hikaru. Jane looks as stone-faced as ever, ready to get to the matter while Chiaki, for now, relaxes back in her chair, rolling and flexing her fingers on one hand. Her eyes linger on Forge for a moment with a lack of amusement before shifting over to Hikaru. Forge is a stone pillar, strong and unmoving. A man of security. Smiling at the two, Hikaru carefully lifts the teapot in her hands.

Hikaru Page: Yōkoso, minasan. Welcome, everyone. May I offer you a drink? I have oolong tea, Fiji water, and cold saké.

Now looking at least momentarily excited, Rain accepts some tea. Chi Chi and Jane both eye the saké for a moment before accepting tea as well. While Chi Chi takes a slow sip of hers, Jane holds her cup in her hands over her lap.

Rain: Oooh, I been waitin’ for this part! It makes me feel at home, connected to the old Hybrid. I ain’t never worked for any other company and to see this again, it’s so COOL!!!

Chi Chi remains silent still, surprisingly, but she takes a gander around the set, taking everything in with an almost content look about her. It almost reminds her of home. The Hostess of the Haven always smiles when she pours the tea for her guests. Once she fills her own cup, she sets the teapot down and takes her seat.

Hikaru Page: Rein-san, I know you are familiar with the Haven. After all, you were one of my guests in Hybrid Wrestling when Erikku Donaban-shi was the owner.

She smiles at Rain before she regards Chi Chi and Jane.

Hikaru Page: However, Sanada-san and Harper-san are new. I always like to start with these questions. What are your origins? Why professional wrestling?

She even offers a full translation in Japanese for Chi Chi to better understand. Chi Chi side glances at Jane for a brief moment before responding.

Chi Chi Sanada: Watashi wa kodomo no koro kara zutto puroresu ni kyōmi ga arimashita. Watashi no itoko to watashi wa, oji no `maddo doggu' jubei Sanada o miru tame ni arīna ni itte imashita.
(I was always interested in professional wrestling since I was a kid. My cousin and I used to go to the arena to watch our uncle, "Mad Dog" Jubei Sanada.)

She taps her fingers against her teacup, letting a tiny smile play across her lips.

Chi Chi Sanada: Watashitachi wa itsumo kare to hokanohito-tachi ga ringu no naka de yatta koto ni fukitobasa re, sore ga watashitachi ga nozonde ita koto o kimemashita. Watashitachi no oji wa sore o shiji shimashita. Watashi no itoko no ryōshin wa aidea ni atatamarimashita. Watashi no, sorehodode wa arimasen.
(We were always blown away by what he and the others did inside the ring and we decided that was what we wanted. Our uncle supported it. My cousin's parents warmed up to the idea. Mine, not so much.)

Chi Chi finishes, giving a look towards her girlfriend and tag team partner. Jane looks over at Chi Chi, nodding her head. Her expression hasn’t changed from that emotionless, stoic look as she then turns her attention back to Hikaru.

Jane Harper: For me, honestly, growing up in North Philly, we didn’t have much. Growing up, me and my grandad, we always watched wrestling and when we could afford it, found our way to a show. Just watching these larger than life personalities beat the ever living shit outta one another, it was something I could understand. The tale of good versus evil, violence solving the issue, what wasn’t there to like about it? I told my grandad that I was gonna do this shit one day. Hell, I told everyone I was gonna do it someday and I got laughed at.

Jane sighed as she clenched her free hand into a fist, looking down at the ground for a moment before she looked back up. As she continues, Chi Chi reaches over calmly and places a hand over hers.

Jane Harper: Where I come from, you didn’t come out of it very well. Most people I knew growin up are either six feet under, or locked the fuck up and are doin hard time up state for somethin. The odds of me even getting here, they weren’t good. I had to do all of it on my own, prove to everyone that you could be more than what the environment said I should be. To me, this is more than just going out there and letting my anger out on some poor assholes, but it’s for all those kids in North Philly to show them that’s more to life than gangs, drugs, and guns.

Rain nods almost as if she’d needed to hear this as much as anyone else.

Rain: HayJo told me y’all was like us and it sounds like she ain’t lyin’ ‘bout that at all. I’m glad y’all found your way here with me and Goldi.

The Lotus Blossom nods and takes a quiet sip of her tea. She takes a moment to embrace the flavor and offers a gentle smile.

Hikaru Page: In a way, I can relate to this. I grew up in Kyoto with my parents, a middle-class family, and everything was okay for a while… Hai, becoming pregnant with my son was a surprise, but it was actually my Chichioya and his gambling addiction that made our lives complicated. It drew… negative attention.

It’s clear from her expression that she doesn’t want to go into details. Of course, the diehard HYBRID fans recall the intense sequence of events that involved her, Minoru, Trenton, Damon Cross, and the Yakuza.

Rain: My Daddy is a gambler too. That’s how HayJo and me ended up homeless and made it so I needed to follow Goldi here and HayJo needed to find her way too.

There’s a strange comfort in having a common struggle with someone.

Hikaru Page: Well, I’m glad you made it safe and sound, Rein-san.

Another sip of her tea. Hikaru sighs softly and contemplates her next question.

Hikaru Page: Ano… I hope it is okay to ask this. How is GoGo-chan doing? GōGō no chōshi wa dōdesu ka?

She offers a fluent translation for Chi Chi to understand. Rain sighs, the first time anyone has ever seen her publicly less than excitedly enthusiastic.

Rain: Goldi’s… hurtin’ some. She ain’t never been truly injured before and it’s really gettin’ to her that she don’t get to come out here with us right now. She loves this more than anything and we’re always so thankful when we get to come into the ring. She’s hopin’ it won’t be a long time to get back because she misses it already.

Chi Chi sits in silence, her own expression hardening some as she sips more of her tea, nails tapping against the material of the couch.

Jane Harper: What Rain said. It sucks seein’ one of our family out injured like this. We all know how much she loves doin’ this and well, we’re gonna keep fightin' and kickin’ ass for her right now.

As Jane and Rain respond regarding GoGo, Chi Chi takes a longer sip of her tea and starts bouncing her knee. Jane notices the little bounce in Chi Chi’s knee and she immediately grabs it, trying to get it to stop. It’s clear Jane knows what this movement means as she looks a little concerned and worried.

Jane Harper: Cheech, it’s gonna be okay. Stay calm.

Chi Chi Sanada: Ano ne? Ochitsuku koto wa dekimasen. Nazenara, watashi wa sore ni tsuite kangaeru hodo, gōgō-chan ga burēsu de kanojo no hiza o tsuita mono ni fusawashikunai hōhō ni tsuite kangaete irukaradesu. Sore wa detaramedeari, watashi wa sore ga 1-byōkan jikodatta koto o kawanai!
(You know what? I can't stay calm, because the more I think about it, the more I think about how GoGo-chan doesn't deserve to be the one laid up with her knee in a brace. It's bullshit and I don't buy that it was an accident for one second!)

Chi Chi finishes the rest of her tea with one quick bottom’s up and extends it out to Hikaru in both hands.

Chi Chi Sanada: Sake, onegaishimasu.
(Sake, please.)

Hikaru Page: H-hai.

Standing up from the recliner, Hikaru spins around to open the small cooler. She retrieves a bottle of Tatenokawa, or “Phoenix”, and returns to fill Chi Chi’s cup with the cold saké. Despite her outburst just a moment ago, Chi Chi gives a polite nod and a soft “arigatōgozaimasu” under the microphone to Hikaru and relaxes back into her chair. She takes that first sip and actually smiles some. Just a bit and nods again to Hikaru.

Chi Chi Sanada: Oishī.
(Delicious.)

Rain: Y’all better now?

Chi Chi mutters in response.

Chi Chi Sanada: Imanotokoro.
(For now.)

A sigh of relief leaves the Lotus Blossom. She feels a pair of eyes on them and glances over to Forge who’s staring at Chi Chi in particular. The Roppongi Kitsune gives the man a condescending smile and raises her cup to him before taking another sip. Hikaru speaks up.

Hikaru Page: It is alright, Fōji-san.

The tall and brooding man looks between the two before he quietly nods and leans back against the wall. Again, Hikaru sighs and takes her seat.

Hikaru Page: Sanada-san, I wish to apologize. When the dental situation was brought up, I should have tried to explain it to you in Japanese. Unfortunately, I was so busy with my family and the concerts… I had hoped that someone else would have been able to help you.

In a quick and fluent fashion, Hikaru translates for Chi Chi and takes a sip of her tea. Chi Chi sighs and lets out a weak laugh as she reaches inside the fold of her Gutter Ballet jacket, pulling out the very same pamphlet for the experimental dental procedure she found several weeks ago. By now, the thing has formed folds, crumples, and creases. Signs of wear and tear of being held onto. Chi Chi shakes it a little at the camera.

Chi Chi Sanada: Sō sō. Ko no koto. Shōjiki ni iu to, Hikaru-san, nan'ninka no hitobito ga watashi ni sore o setsumei shita kamo shiremasen.
(Oh, yeah. This thing. To be honest, Hikaru-san, a few people could have explained it to me.)

She turns the pamphlet in her hand to look at the front of it in disgust before crumpling it into a ball inside her hand, now clenching it inside her fist.

Chi Chi Sanada: Honmono ni narimashou. Watashi wa eigo de saikōde wa arimasen. Watashi wa kaiwa o suru koto ga dekimasuga, watashi wa mada gijutsu-tekina furēzu ni kurō shite imasu. E e, anata wa watashi no tame ni yukkuri to monogoto o iu hitsuyō ga aru kamo shiremasenga, anata ga doryoku shite irunara, watashi wa rikai surudeshou. Watashi wa kono kuni ni gaikoku hitodesu. Baka janai.
(Let's be real. I'm not the best at the English language. I can carry a conversation, but I still struggle with the technical phrases. Yeah, you might need to say things slowly for me, but if you put an effort in, I will understand. I'm foreign to this country. I'm not stupid.)

She shakes her head slowly, sighing.

Chi Chi Sanada: Kawarini nani ga okotta nodesu ka? Koko no hitobito ga watashi o tasukeyou to suru koto o nayama seru koto ga dekinakattanode, watashi wa goyaku kara sū-shūkan o tsuiyashimashita. E e, ima, watashi wa sore o rikai shite imasu. Watashi no yūjindearu Yukari wa, sore o sukoshi mae ni watashi ni setsumei shimashita. Dare ga nanika o iu koto ga dekita no ka shitte imasu ka? Risa Saīto. Totemo junsuide mujakina kōdō o suru hito. Subete no hito ni aisa rete iru hito. Aru jiten de watashinotomodachidearu to shuchō shita hito. Don'na tomodachi ga darekaga jibun jishin kara baka ni shite shimau nodesu ka?
(What happened instead? I spent weeks going off of a mistranslation because people here couldn't be bothered to try to help me. Yeah, now, I understand it. Yukari, a friend of mine, explained it to me, not too long ago. You know who could have said something? Risa Saito. Someone who acts so pure and innocent. Someone who's beloved by all. Someone who claimed to be my friend at one point. What kind of friend lets someone make a goddamn fool out of themselves?)

As Chi Chi starts to get riled up again, Jane reaches over and rubs her shoulder.

Jane Harper: Hey. Baby, breathe.

Chi Chi scoffs into her cup as she brings it up for another drink.

Rain: I have no idea what she just said, but it don’t sound good at all.

Hikaru nods slowly, showing empathy and understanding.

Hikaru Page: It’s okay, Rein-san. Sanada-san has every right to be upset by the recent events involving the Queens of Chaos. Honestly, I…

The Hostess of the Haven trails off for a moment. Hearing this causes Chi Chi’s brows to lift and she turns that sip of sake into one final gulp, tossing the rest back before setting her cup down.

Chi Chi Sanada: Dōyō?
(Upset?)

She shifts in her seat, turning to face Hikaru who seems uneasy. Jane reaches out to put a hand on her arm, but Chi Chi raises a hand to stop her.

Chi Chi Sanada: Īe. Sore wa dōyō shite imasen. Gakkō de no tesuto ni shippai shita toki, watashi wa dōyō shite imashita. Isshūkan setchi sa reta toki, watashi wa dōyō shite imashita. Oji ga mi ni itta shiai o ushinatta toki, watashi wa `dōyō' shite imashita. Sorede, sore ga `dōyō' no iminara, watashi wa imanani o kanjite imasu ka? Darekaga sore o shitte irunara watashi ni kotae o oshiete kuremasu... Watashi wa sō shimasen.
(No. That’s not upset. I used to get upset when I failed a test in school. I used to get upset when I got grounded for a week. I used to get “upset” when my uncle lost a match that I went to watch. So if that’s what “upset” means, then what am I feeling now? Somebody tell me the answer if they know it, because… I don’t.)

Finally, Chi Chi stands up from her seat and she has to shake both Jane and Rain’s hands from her arms as she runs her fingers through her split-colored black and silver hair. The Roppongi Kitsune begins to pace back and forth on the set of the Haven. Trenton Mitchell takes a step forward from the wall and Chi Chi scoffs, shaking her head. For the first time in this interview, she breaks Japanese and uses English.

Chi Chi Sanada: I not gonna hit her. Back tha fakk off.

Forge narrows his eyes but doesn’t say anything. Then, just as quickly, she’s right back to Japanese as she looks at Hikaru again.

Chi Chi Sanada: Watashi wa anata ni kore hodo ōku o iu koto ga dekimasu, hikaru-san. Konran no joō ni gaman dekimasen. Watashi wa dekimasen. Kuso. Tachiagatte! Watashi wa karera ya, watashitachi no yōna hitobito ni karera no hana o kakimawashite iru kono bijinesu de, karera ya hoka no kinchō shita,-ba ni notte iru mazāfakkā ni gaman suru koto wa dekimasen. Watashi no yōna hitobito.
(I can tell you this much, Hikaru-san. I can’t stand the Queens of Chaos. I. Cannot. Fucking. Stand them! I can’t stand them or any other uptight, high-horse-riding motherfucker in this business who struts around with their noses up to people like us. People like me.)

Barely missing a beat, Chi Chi swerves to look directly into the camera now as she continues.

Chi Chi Sanada: Rokkārūmu o arukimawari, kuīn o sengen suru ringu de medatsu hito wa minasandesu ka? Ō? Megami? Kamigami? Josei? Ryōshu? Ōjo to ōji? Anata wa anata no nise no o shiri no gyokuza ni suwatte, anata ga tawagoto o tōrinukete anata no michi o kezutte tsume o nigitte chōjō ni iku hōhō ni tsuite hanashitaidesu ka? Kore o oshietekudasai. Risa, watashi wa anata ga Kyōto de anata no kurō o shita koto o shitte imasu. Anata wa mada anata no ryōshin no ai o motte imashita. Karera ga heiwa ni yasumu yō ni.
(All of you people who walk around locker rooms and stand out in a ring declaring yourselves Queens? Kings? Goddesses? Gods? Ladies? Lords? Princesses and Princes? You wanna sit on your fake ass thrones and talk about how you scraped and clawed your way through the shit to make it to the top? Tell me this: what the fuck would any of you know about struggling to get by? Risa, I know you had your hard times in Kyoto. You still had the love of your parents. May they rest in peace.

She fumbles in her jacket pocket now, finding her crushed pack of Mild Sevens. In a quick series of fluid motions, she pops one between her lips, strikes her zippo, and lights the end of it.

Chi Chi Sanada: Jeshī Ozubōn, anata no hanashi o kiita koto ga arimasu. Anata no chichioya to anata no hahaoya to no kankei ni tsuite. Shinjū o sasshi shimasu. Hontōdesu. Shikashi, anata no on'nanoko ga kore o suru koto o yumemite ita ta no dare yori mo warui koto o shite wa ikemasen. Watashi no ryōshin wa, kore ga watashinoyumedearu koto ni tsuite kesshite ki ni shimasendeshita. Karera wa 16-sai no musume o rojō de keri dashita. Kyōshitsu ya tsukue de ichinichijū sugoshi, jōshi ga kata ni kokyū shite imasu. 16-Sai! Watashi wa gakkō o sotsugyō suru mae ni rojō ni imashitaga, sonotame, watashi wa kesshite dekimasendeshita. Tasuke o motomeru hito wa imasendeshita. Watashi ga motte ita yuiitsu no kazoku wa, Ōsaka ni tawagoto ni sunde ite, mottomo sewa o shita hito wa sudeni kokugai ni imashita. Watashi wa kanojo ni au made, watashi ga yatta hodo warui hito o dare mo shirimasendeshita.
(Jessi Ozborn, I’ve heard your story. About your father and your relationship with your mother. I feel for you. I really do. But don’t act like you girls had it worse than anyone else who dreamed of doing this. My parents never gave a damn about this being my dream. They kicked their sixteen-year-old daughter out on the streets because she’d rather be a professional wrestler instead of a doctor or a salary bitch. Spending all day in a classroom or at a desk, having a boss breathing over her shoulder. Sixteen years old! I was on the streets before I finished school and because of that, I never got to. I had no one to turn to for help. The only family I had that gave a shit lived over in Osaka and the one who cared most was already out of the country. I didn’t know anyone else who had it as bad as I did until I met her.)

Chi Chi turns back and points to Jane who’s now sitting forward in her chair, listening intently as she lets the tiny woman let loose. She sucks on her cigarette some more and lets the smoke spill from her mouth as she continues.

Chi Chi Sanada: Oidasa rete kanojo ni au made ni watashi o hajimenaide kudasai. Meinu, anata wa 16-sai no 17-sai no on'nanoko ga rojō de sunde iru koto o shiritaku arimasen. Shikashi, watashitachi wa sore o tsukurimashita. Watashitachiha imakoko ni imasu. E e, Risa? Jeshī? Tawagoto, 混 Chaos no subete no joō? Karera ga koko Amerika de itte iru yōna monodesu: Riaru wa honmono o ninshiki shite imasu. Watashitachiha, anata ga ringu ni ashi o fumiireru ikutsu ka no warui guchi o mitomete imasu. Shōsan ga arimasu. Shikashi, anata no on'nanoko ga gyōkai no subete no kigyō o hanekaeshite irukara to itte, anata ga watashitachi yori mo sugurete iru yō ni furumawanaide kudasai. Hitobito wa wasureru no ga sukidesu, jēn chanto watashi wa shibaraku sore o shimashita. Watashitachi wa sore o shimashita, soshite nani ga okotta nodesu ka? Watashitachiha-me no mae ni oka reta subete no hito kara kuso tawagoto o oidashi, sore o shōmei suru tame ni chanpionshippu o kaisai shimashita. Dakara watashitachi wa koko ni haiburiddo ni kimashita. Watashitachi wa sono chīsana tokuchō o tsudzukeru yō ni narimashitaga, kawarini doko ni iru nodeshou ka? Komyunikēshon ga fusoku shite iru tame, rachetto no o shiri no guchi ni taisho shite imasu. Kore wa sutōmufuronto de owatta hazudesu. Kawari ni, reinchan no gārufurendo - watashitachi no yūjin no gōrudi - wa, kanojo no ashi o burēsu ni irete yokotawatte imasu. Kanojo ga itsu modotte kuru no ka wakarimasen.
(Don’t get me started between getting kicked out and meeting her. Bitch, you don’t wanna know what a sixteen, seventeen-year-old girl living off the streets, clinging onto a dream has to do sometimes to just get through the day-to-day. We made it, though. We’re here now. So yeah, Risa? Jessi? Shit, every Queen of Chaos? It’s like they say here in America: real recognizes real. We acknowledge you’re some badass bitches to step into a ring with. You’ve got your accolades all over. But don’t act like you’re better than us just because you girls are bouncing around every company in the industry. People like to forget, Jane-chan and I did that for a while. We did that and what happened? We kicked the fucking shit out of everybody that got put in front of us and we held the championships to prove it. That’s why we came here to Hybrid. We came to continue that little trait of ours but where are we, instead? We’re stuck dealing with you ratchet-ass bitches all because of a lack of communication. This should have been over at Stormfront. Instead, Rain-chan’s girlfriend - our friend Goldi - is laid up with her leg in a brace. We don’t know when she’s coming back.)

Another brief pause as she sucks another hit from that filter again. Chi Chi shakes her head a little, fighting the tears welling up in her eyes.

Chi Chi Sanada: Watashitachi ga shitte iru koto wa koredesu: Anata wa monogoto o esukarēto shitakatta nodesu ka? Anata wa atsusa o agetakatta nodesu ka? Sore ga kaku o kuso shite iru to kangaete kudasai. Hora, subete no kunshu-sei… subete no ōkoku, joō, nani demo… karera wa kesshite tsudzukanai. Joō,-ō, kōgō, kōtei,-shin, megami: Karera wa subete saishūtekini shinimasu. Nokotte iru mono wa, hogo sa reta kabe no sotogawa o osorete iru monodesu. Mizo ni sunde iru nezumi wa, itsuka, osokare hayakare, anata ga suberu koto o shitte irunode, shinbōdzuyoku matteimasu. Anata wa anata ga anata no hana o miwatasu monode ippai no sono mizo ni sugu ni ochimasu ka?
(What we do know is this: you wanted to escalate things? You wanted to turn up the heat? Consider it fucking nuclear. See, every monarchy…every kingdom, queendom, whatever…they never last. Queens, Kings, Empresses, Emperors, Gods, Goddesses: they all die eventually. The ones that are left are the things you’re afraid of outside your protected walls. The rats that live in the gutter, being fed the scraps you throw away, waiting patiently because they know that one day, sooner or later, you’re gonna slip. You’re gonna fall right into that gutter full of the things you look over your nose at and when you do?)

Chi Chi’s cigarette is about halfway finished when she sticks the filter in her mouth and inhales hard. The cherry brightens and she drags the entire second half down to a string of ash. She stifles a cough and blows the smoke out through her nose, reminiscent of a dragon - Chrome Conclave callback. Finally, one of those tears she’s been keeping at bay slides down her cheek but the fire in her eyes, the fury on her face, doesn’t wane.

Chi Chi Sanada: Watashitachi wa anata no niku o gochisō shi, anata no hone de ha o erabu tsumoridesu.
(We’re gonna feast on your flesh and pick our teeth with your bones.)

She flicks the cigarette butt at the camera and turns towards Rain and Jane, falling silent. Not a word… until one-half of Natural Resources asks a question.

Rain: Do I wanna know what she just said?

Hikaru Page: Ano…

The Kyoto Native presses her lips together and shakes her head.

Hikaru Page: I am… sure you will find out later, Rein-san. Everyone will.

She folds her hands on her lap and takes a breath, though she’s careful not to inhale too deeply. Hikaru has never been one for smoking, but there was no way she was going to tell Chi Chi “no”.

Hikaru Page: Are there… any final comments?

Rain nods to Hikaru.

Rain: I wanna thank you for havin’ us on here, Miss Hikaru. Y’all always make your guests feel so comfortable and bein’ on this show is so… cool. Like I said earlier, it feels like a touch of home from before. Thank you.

A sweet smile forms on Hikaru’s face and she politely bows towards Gutter Ballet. There’s an expression of sympathy for Chi Chi, of course, but she regards the camera and nods.

Hikaru Page: Min'na, arigatō. Thank you, everyone. That is all for Hikaru’s Haven. Please have a good night.