The Challenger

[Stu]

***a cliff overlooking the city, native trees and shrubs visible all around. Through this cuts a well-worn path. Up the path runs BARTHOLOMEW "THE BRAWLER" BECKETT, in work-out stained sweats, a 4 lb. dumbbell in each hand, running with his guard up, punching in rhythm. He comes to a stop at the cliff, overlooking the city, his breathing deepening before he speaks***

BB: "You know … the titles of the PWA … the heavyweight, lightweight, tag titles, and so on … are titles significant throughout the world. Oh, I know that I have serious contention with many of the athletes here at PWA, due to my competitive nature, their jealousy … but when it comes to it, I am competing among the best of the best. Even Snow, who loathes me for some reason, was a competitor who was worth me beating time and again. If he wasn't worth the effort, he wouldn't have been signed on to begin with. That doesn't mean that the likes of Snow, Arzon, Titus Love … your father … are my equals. It does mean that, anyone here who holds a title has accomplished something significant, something of world-wide importance.

"That said, there is one title, only the one, that rules above them all: that of the National Wrestling Council's World Champion. And, in their great wisdom and insight, the Council have selected me, Bartholomew Beckett, as the next contender there for.

"Now, I know that there are a great many of you fans out there who enjoy the prospect of seeing me get a drubbing. Well, to begin with, I do not get a drubbing. I deliver it. I am in top physical condition. I am intelligent and cunning. I am ruthless. I am a nigh perfect athlete, tireless, with more bottom than the original Jack Johnson. I can read an opponent and use every one of his weaknesses and fears against him, and … and …

***Beckett turns finally to face the camera***

BB: "... I alone possess mastery of the most dangerous hold in all of professional wrestling today, the crippling Pax Britanica. Put these together, luv, and there is no doubt that I am your next NWC World Champion, and long may I reign."

***Beckett walks past the camera. The camera pans to follow him, revealing that he walks toward an awaiting limousine. A beautiful brunette valet stands by and opens the door for Beckett. Inside, an equally beautiful ginger luxuriates, holding a bottle of water and a flute of champaign. Beckett turns enough to smile back at the camera***

BB: "To contemplate any other outcome … would be insanity."

***Beckett smiles wickedly, then gets into the limo, followed by the valet, and away they drive***