Light at the End

[Stu]

*** TERRY SCHNEIDER is seated at the PWA News Brief desk. The inset to the right of his head reads, “Special Report.” At the bottom of the screen the news feed scrolls by: “Jr. Cobra has determined to represent himself in court. Plans to counter the pending paternity suit with a three-part defense: legal three-piece suit.” ***

TERRY SCHNEIDER: “Hello ladies and gentlemen, this is Terry Schneider. I have here an update on the Masked Shooter, in the form of a written statement. Now, many fans have expressed great concern over the ring veteran’s welfare, and there has even been a petition to prevent this last match at Undaunted against “The Brawler,” Bartholomew, Lord Beckett. However, these pleas have fallen on deaf ears where CEO Damion Black is concerned. Here is the Masked Shooter’s response:

“‘To the PWA Armada,

I am as grateful for your heartfelt concern and support for me this past season as I am for the generations of support I have received from you fans. I will admit that I have made some mistakes recently, mistakes I can’t back out of now, and I have paid the price for it. This has been my call, every step of the way, though. Damion Black holds no responsibility; I could have said, ‘No’ at any time. There are times that I really should have followed Aldo Wyld’s example and retired while I was ahead.

I was seriously considering succumbing to my doctors’ advice and let myself be forced out, especially after that last match. The Imperial Assassin was always my hardest, most aggressive opponent, and the environment in which we fought this past week. I have watched the footage with Lassiter, and I have to say, besides refeeling every barb and pull, I am tickled to see that most of the contest was real wrestling. I hope others study this match, too.

However, when I learned that, at Undaunted, I have been challenged by Mr. Beckett for the NWC World Championship, I couldn't refuse. I do not feel that, considering my career, that I can refuse this challenge. If I lose, I lose to the best; no shame in that, as long as I give it my all. But if I win, I hold the biggest title in the business. That isn’t to be passed by lightly.

This, therefore, is my formal acceptance of Mr. Beckett’s challenge. Again, how can I refuse? It isn’t often that one is challenged by the one holding the title. I must be more impressive than I thought.

Competitively,

The Masked Shooter’

TS: “Will the Masked Shooter be able to withstand Lord Beckett’s assault? Moreover, will he be able to retire as the NWC World Wrestling Champion? Join us for PWA: Undaunted to find out! This is Terry Schneider. Good night.”