The Renegade Revolution

Chapter 55: Falls of Amber, Part 2

The next morning, Blair seemed to be in a much better mood, as she ate breakfast in her room, Rio coming in to investigate. 'You not joining us this morning then?' 'I figured I'd eat breakfast up here. Need to sort out my deck anyway. You don't mind me eating up here do you?' 'Of course not. Just remember where the vacuum is.' 'Got it.'

'So you wanna talk me through it?' 'Sure. Hannah's going to play defensively to start off with, she knows I'm better defensively.' 'You going to play her game then?' 'Probably I guess. If she tries to attack, I have to have an answer.' 'I get you. You're going to let her play her game.' 'Exactly.'

Rio then took Blair's two Pendulum cards. 'You want these?' 'I'm not sure – I was hoping to save that for something more major.' 'What do you mean by that?' 'Trust me – I'm just not certain about using them. Something's telling me we'll need them as a surprise later on.'

'So you feeling better this morning?' 'Yeah thanks. Ready to take her down.' 'Good on you.' 'Who've you got in the first round.' 'I've got to go through a "preliminary round". Don't see why, but I'm up against Hassleberry anyway.

As Blair brushed her thick hair out, they continued to talk. 'Think of the possibilities B – we could be tag champs, and then you could be the WDC Champ.' 'Yeah right, not like I'm ever getting a shot.'

'I'm sure you will at sometime.' 'Michael hates me. He's constantly telling me I "don't have enough personality" Blair said, doing a surprisingly good impersonation. 'It ain't that I don't have personality, it's that I go out there because I want to win. Surely winning is the whole point.'

She then started putting a black bandanna on, using the mirror as a positioning guide. 'Rio.' 'Yeah?' 'You don't think I look too lesbian like this do you?' Rio couldn't answer sadly, as she was too busy having a fit of laughter.

'Was it something I said?' 'You naughty girl! No, you don't look "too lesbian". How lesbian does a lesbian need to look anyway?' 'I am' 'Bisexual, I know. I'm just teasing ya. You don't look too lesbian at all. It's nice to see you let your hair down for once… literally.'

'Only because I can't be bothered with it.' 'That's what you say every time you put it up as well. Have you used that phone number yet?' 'Haven't got the guts.' Blair then looked through her deck again, and picked out a couple of cards, swapping them out for others. 'That should do it.'

Preliminary Round: Rio Kastle vs. Tyranno Hassleberry

Round 1:

Hannah Cummings (UK) vs. Blair Flannigan (USA)

Lydia McKinna (UK) vs. Justin Pipe (USA)

Kieran Byrne (UK) vs. Winner of P1 (USA)

Freja McKinna (UK) vs. Kari Tsukumo (USA)

As the crew arrived before the show, Rio went off to prepare for her opening duel. Meanwhile, two officials walked over to Kris. 'Mr. Travis, the boss wants to see you.' 'He wants a meeting.'

Maddy then came over to Kris. 'Renegades don't have to do anything alone. I'll come with you, have your back.' 'Thanks. It's why I joined.' 'I know.' The two then quickly walked off to the office.

In the office

Michael was finalising a contract when Kris and Maddy walked in. 'Ah Maddy, it's lovely to see you, but I wanted to talk to Kris alone.' 'Anything you can say to him you can say to me. I won't say a word while you talk to each other.'

MGA then nodded slowly, and Kris invited himself to take a seat. 'Kris, I do believe that I warned you not to make a bad business decision by joining the Renegades.' 'Yeah, well I'm only interested in my own business.'

'Radley is in hospital with a possibly fractured eye socket thanks to your new friends.' Kris just looked at him with a deadpan face. 'What – am I supposed to be interested?' 'You really have no respect do you?'

'Not really. I'm fed-up of being Radley's bag carrier. You're either a Renegade or you're against us. So I chose to conform.' 'Well if you won't listen' 'You're the one not listening. You're trying to get rid of your biggest cash cows.'

Michael then shook his head/' I've tried to help you. Kris, I have no choice but to suspend you. Sadly I can only suspend you for one tournament.' Kris then stood up. 'Can I go now?' 'Mark my words Kris – you will receive no benefits or title opportunities while a member of the club.' Kris just left.

MGA was then left with Maddy. 'Maddy, I'm sure you have had time to reconsider your stance on my character suggestions? I will go and order your dress immediately.' Maddy then slammed his laptop's lid down. 'I ain't wearing no stupid dress.' Maddy then took a contract out of her pocket, and ripped it up.

'Maddy, you foolish little girl.' 'Say what you like, I don't care. I ain't turning my back on my family and the people who rely on me. People like you and Rhydian, you just don't get it. You don't understand that loyalty we have, a bond. So you can try and get this title off of me, but it ain't gonna happen.'

Meanwhile, in the duelling zone

Rio and Hassleberry were facing off, as the crowd were calmed down. After a stare-down, Hassleberry activated his duel disk, the home town favourite not far behind him.

Rio Kastle LP:4000 vs. Tyranno Hassleberry LP:4000

Turn 1: Rio: 'Ladies first. I activate Water Hazard. Once per turn, I can summon a Water monster from my hand if my field's empty. I summon Aurora Wing (Def.:1600). Next I summon Graydle Eagle (Atk:1500). I end my turn with a face-down.'

Back in the box

As Phil arrived up in the box, he smiled. 'Rio's had a productive turn. With Aurora Wing, she has a monster which can be revived once per turn if destroyed in battle, and in Graydle Eagle, she gives him a -1 when Eagle's destroyed.'

As he saw Freja walk in, he handed her a silk envelope. 'You're not propositioning me are you?' Phil just gave her a stern look. 'I'm kidding.' 'Apparently you ordered some cards from Donna?' 'Oh yeah, awesome – I forgot about those.'

'They arrived at the mansion this morning – Rio gave Donna the address. Came with a letter saying that their effects come directly from a tarot deck.' 'Oh cool. Lydia said she was going to teach me how to use them.'

Lydia then walked by, and pulled Freja's ponytail. 'Ow sis! That hurt!' 'I just wanted to remind you that I said I'd teach you if you didn't say that stupid think about being propositioned by Phil.'

Phil then laughed. 'Don't worry Lydia, she's behaving… for now.' 'Good.' As she left, the red-haired twin spun around. 'Oh yeah Fre, need that bun shaper back.' As Freja passed it over, she took the opportunity to throw shade at her sister. 'You know, if you keep wrapping your hair like this you'll have none left.'

Lydia then found Blair to find the truth. 'Blair, can I ask you something?' 'About what?' 'Hair.' 'Oh, ok sure.' 'If I keep wrapping my hair up tight, will it all fall out?' 'I guess it could weaken the roots eventually. But you probably don't need to worry about that for about 40 years.'

As the twins left, Blair got to speak to her manager. 'Hey.' 'You wanted to talk to me?' 'Just wondered if you'd be taking any notes on my duel.' 'I will be. I spoke with Hannah, she's happy for me to stay here and do that. I'm warning you though – duel well.'

Blair then smiled. 'How well do you want me to duel? Enough to impress you or enough to win?' 'Just duel as well as you can.' 'I will do. I'm sorry I have to thrash your wife to do it.'

Back in the duelling zone

Hassleberry: 'Tention, sarge on the march. You're up Archeonys (Atk:300). Next I activate New Ultra Evolution. Archeonys, you're dismissed. Sword Arm of Dragon, you're up (Atk:1750). Sword Arm, forward march. Attack Aurora Wing with Stampede Crush.'

Sword Arm of Dragon charged straight in, the ground vibrating under the weight as it trampled Aurora Wing. 'When you destroy Aurora Wing in battle, I can revive it instantly (Atk:1200).' 'Not a problem. I'll just lay these two face-downs.'

Rio: 'Let's get going. Can you hear the bells? They're ringing out for the Xyz Reception. All I need for this card is a monster with a Level on the field. I can now summon another monster of the same Level. I choose 7-Coloured Fish (Atk:1800-0).'

'Um it doesn't have Attack points.' 'Who cares? Next I summon Sirenorca through her ability (Atk:2200). I choose to make all monsters on my field Level 5 (Level:4-5)x3.' 'This can't be good.'

'For you it's terrible. Because I can overlay my Level 5 Graydle Eagle and Aurora Wing to build the overlay network! Get ready for your world to become one big ice age. I summon out Ice Princess Zereort (Atk:2500).'

'I suppose things could be worse.' 'And they get worse. Firstly I'll use the ability of Zereort, to detach an Xyz material. This freezes your monster solid stripping away all it's power. Subzero Subtraction.' Zereort released a blinding blue light, which brought the ice age to Sword Arm (Atk:1750-0).

'As for your backrow, I've already got plans for that. In the shape of my Twin Twisters. By ditching a card from my hand, I can rip through both your face-downs.' The two twisters blasted onto the field, blowing Hassleberry's face-downs into the air (Jurassic Impact and Tail Swipe), destroying them both.

'Finally I'll trigger my face-down Gift of the Martyr. With this out, all I have to do is tribute Sirenorca, and Zereort gets a power boost (Atk:2000-4200). Zereort, attack Sword Arm with Diving Diamond Dash.' Zereort swooped from the sky, piercing straight through Sword Arm with sharp ice crystals for arms, ending the duel (Hassleberry LP:4000-0).

As Hassleberry looked on, shocked, Rio raised her fist. He then smiled to himself, and left, leaving Rio to enjoy her home crowd. After this, she left, as the pre-show ended.

As she walked back in, Phil was pleased. 'Good job there.' 'He didn't make it difficult.' 'I liked your opening move.' This filled Rio with pride. 'You did?' 'Why wouldn't I? You put him in a position where he had nothing to gain from attacking. Either he lose his monster or he ended up in the same position.'

'Thanks. Who am I against next?' 'Kieran.' 'Easy.' 'Don't underestimate him. He's got a bad deck but he makes it work.' 'You saying I can't beat him?' 'No. I'm saying don't get cocky.'

Meanwhile, Blair was limbering up for her duel. As she did, Maddy watched on, Sakura sat there with her. 'God I'd love to duel her properly sometime. Just ain't happening though.' 'You will do at sometime.' 'I know, just seems stupid it's not happened yet.' The show then started with a video replaying highlights of Maddy and Rhydian's title defences.

Blair walked out to open the show, the crowd seemingly dazzled by her as she strode down with confidence. 'The following is the first round of the War of Independence. Introducing first, from Shelby, Michigan, she is the Rough Diamond – Blair Flannigan.' By this time, Blair had reached the duelling zone, where she took off her Renegades jacket to reveal a custom-made brown vest with a diamond in the middle.

As Blair made the salute to the crowd, Hannah walked down, getting a more mixed response. 'Introducing her opponent, from the M18 District of Manchester, England, this is Hannah Cummings.' Hannah seemed to be calming herself as she came down, and then confronted Blair, with them both raising their fists, showing the comparatively small height difference between Blair and Hannah (4 inches). Meanwhile, Phil was trying to explain the World Number 1 scenarios to Rio.

'Right, this is slightly complicated. Hannah and Blair are about to duel. If Blair wins this duel, she is guaranteed to be Number 1 after the tournament. If Hannah wins, she becomes provisional World Number 1. But Kieran can also become Number 1.'

'Really?' 'Yes. If Hannah were to beat Blair, then lose in the semis, and Kieran wins, he will become Joint Number 1 with Hannah, Blair will be Number 3, but only £19 behind.' 'It's too many numbers.'

'Realistic upshot – the winner of this is Number 1. How did Blair seem this morning?' 'Great honestly. She seemed really ready for this duel.' 'Good – should be entertaining then.'

War of Independence Round 1: Hannah Cummings (UK) LP:4000 vs. Blair Flannigan (USA) LP:4000

Turn 1: Hannah: 'I'll start us off. I draw. I activate Samsara. With this card on the field, when I Ritual summon, the materials are returned to my deck instead of being sent to the graveyard.' 'A constant cycle of cards.' 'So I'll activate Gishki Aquamirror, and ditch Gishki Ariel to summon Gishki Psychelone (Atk:2150).'

'Nice move.' 'Due to the effect of Samsara, I return Ariel to my deck. Next I'll use Psychlone's effect. So I can pick a random card in your hand, and declare a Type and Attribute. If it's both of those, I can shuffle it back into your deck. I choose Earth and Rock.'

Blair then revealed the card to Hannah – Rainbow Veil. 'Interesting. Very interesting. I'll throw two face-downs and end my turn.'

Blair: 'I draw. I summon Crystal Beast Amethyst Cat (Atk:1200). I'll follow that up with two Spell cards. You don't need to worry about Crystal Tree right now, but Foolish Burial might be more of a threat. It sends a monster from my deck to my graveyard. Now Amethyst Cat can attack you directly by halving it's Attack points. Amethyst Claw.'

Blair's cat leapt right over Psychelone, before scratching Hannah in the face (Hannah LP:4000-3400). 'I activate the ability of Gorz the Emissary of Darkness. When I take damage through a battle, I can summon Gorz out (Atk:2700). In addition, I also get an Emissary Token, whose Attack is equal to the damage I took (Atk:600).'

Under pressure, Blair took her time with her next move. 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Hannah: 'You disappoint me. I draw. Psychelone, attack her Cat.' 'I activate Crystal Wall. By sending a Crystal Beast from my deck to the graveyard, I can negate your attack and end your Battle phase.' 'A purely defensive move. I end my turn with another face-down.'

Blair: 'I draw. I activate Crystal Source. By destroying a Crystal Beast on my field, I can add one of the same or a lower level to my hand. I'll destroy my Cat and add Ruby Carbuncle to my hand.'

'But Crystal Beasts go to the Spell and Trap card zone.' 'You learn quickly.' The bottom-most fruit of Crystal Tree then lit up. 'What's that?' 'Oh, my Crystal Tree. It gains a Crystal Counter whenever a Crystal Beast is placed in my Spell and Trap card zone (CC:1).'

'Next I'll activate Crystal Blessing. This allows me to remove Sapphire Pegasus and Topaz Tiger from my Graveyard, and place them in my Spell and Trap zone (CC: 2).' 'You move quickly.'

'Next I'll send Crystal Tree to my graveyard and activate it's other effect. For every Crystal Counter I had, I can add another Crystal to my backrow.' Amber and Emerald gems then materialised on the field.

'You've locked yourself out of your entire backrow.' 'Yes, I still have this though – Ancient City – Rainbow Ruins.' As the mystical city appeared around the duellists, Hannah seemed impressed.

'I may have underestimated you.' 'With five Crystals in my backrow, I get all it's effects. For example, as I have three or more Crystals, I can draw 1 card. I'll summon Topaz Tiger (Atk:1600), and end my turn with that.'

Hannah: 'A lot goes a long way sometimes. I draw.' She then eyed up her card, and looked back, focused on victory. 'You want to show your strategy? Two can play at that. I activate Heavy Storm. This powerful storm destroys every Spell or Trap of yours.'

'With the effect of Rainbow Ruins, I send Topaz to my graveyard and negate your Spell.' 'I knew you'd do that Blair. Which is why I kept this in reserve – Gishki Aquamirror. With this, I dismiss my Emissary Token and Psychelone to bring out my Gishki Zielgigas (Atk:3200).'

'That's a monster I was worried about.' 'I activate it's ability. By paying 1000 points (Hannah LP:3400-2400), I can draw. If it's a Gishki monster, one of your cards goes back to your Deck.'

Hannah then drew. 'It's not a Gishki monster, but that'll be useful later. Zielgigas, attack Topaz Tiger. Herculean Rush.' Zielgigas unleashed a thin dredge of water which speared through the ground, and erupted underneath Topaz, leaving Blair's clothes flapping about (Blair LP:4000-3200).

'With the effect of Rainbow Ruins, I can halve the Battle damage I take once per turn.' 'That's as expected. I'll lay a face-down and hand it back to you.'

Blair: 'I draw. I'll lay a monster face-down and use the effect of Ruins to draw another card.' After drawing, she placed the card in her hand. ("Emerald Tortoise should protect me this turn. I just need to draw into Mage Power, and her monster's gone. Ruins lets me stop a card effect once per turn, so that should work. Just hope she doesn't get her Dolphin out first").

Hannah: 'I'm guessing you're done then. You know what I said about strategy? Well you can't beat me that way. You'll have to attack. I activate Pot of Greed, to draw 2 cards.' Hannah seemed unsatisfied until she saw the last card she drew. 'I activate another Greed card – Moray of Greed.'

'I'd forgotten you had that.' 'This card has the power to change everything. I shuffle two Water monsters from my hand into my deck, then draw 3 cards.' Hannah then smiled. 'This ought to give you something to think about. It's time to turn up the noise as I summon Feedback Warrior (Atk:800).'

As Feedback's speakers started pulsating, Blair's face barely moved. 'Feedback Warrior's ability activates. It lets me target a monster on the field and change it's Level to 3. I choose Zielgigas (Level:10-3).'

'This means that I can equip it with Ritual Weapon. Due to Zielgigas being below Level 6, it gains 1500 Attack and Defence (Atk/Def.:3200/0 – 4700/1500). And I'll tribute Feedback Warrior for my own Gift of the Martyr (Atk:4700-5500).'

'What's the use – you can't pierce through.' 'Ok, I activate my face-down Meteorain then. So now I can pierce straight through your defences. Zielgigas, attack with Herculean Rush!'

As Zielgigas made the ground fizz and break up, Blair barely moved (Bull Blader Def.:1200, Blair LP:3200). 'You lured me in.' 'And now you're paying the price. Bull Blader is one of my oldest cards, and still stacks up. Not only does it exempt me from battle damage, but your monster gets gored.'

Two large red horns flew out of nowhere, and gored Zielgigas, destroying it. 'I activate Monster Reborn, reviving Zielgigas (Atk:3200). I end my turn.'

Blair: 'I draw.' She then fist-pumped. 'I activate the 3rd effect of Rainbow Ruins, to draw one card. Next I activate the 5th effect. Because I have a full backrow of Crystals, I can summon one Crystal Beast from it's crystallised prison. I choose Crystal Beast Amber Mammoth (Atk:1700).'

'Next I activate the Spell card Mage Power. Amber Mammoth might look a little pedestrian now, but say that after it gains 2500 Attack points (Atk:1700-4200). Amber Mammoth, stampede with Amber Stomp.'

Amber Mammoth charged in, pounding Zielgigas into the ground with it's massive legs (Hannah LP:2400-1400). 'I summon Bowganian (Atk:1300), and end my turn.'

Hannah: 'I draw. I activate 5 Card Salute, to reload my hand. I activate Rank-up Magic Renegades Unite! With the power of this card, I summon Number 27 – Northern Lights Dolphin (Atk:3000).'

'Next I choose to rank her up. Chaos Xyz Evolution! Dark waters, surround my enemy, make them suffer, drown their dreams. I give you my soul, give me yours! I call upon Chaos Number 27 – Northern Lights Doom Dolphin (Atk:3300).'

As Doom Dolphin appeared before her, Blair's face still didn't shift. 'Are you not worried yet?' 'Getting worried isn't going to help.' 'Nothing will help now. By detaching an Xyz material, Doom Dolphin can take the ability of any card in my deck which I choose to banish. Unification Treaty.'

The president then took out her deck, fanned it out, and selected a card from the middle of the deck. 'The card I choose is Magic Hole Golem. So I can halve my Dolphin's Attack (Atk:3300-1650), then attack directly this turn. By the way, don't think that you're going to get off free, because I also activate Megamorph, to double it's original Attack (Atk:1650-6600).'

'Doom Dolphin, Aurora Des Fall.' 'I have nothing in my hand to help me, but I do have something in the graveyard.' Blair was then shielded by a large diamond. 'What's that?' 'The effect of Crystal Wall. I can banish it from my graveyard if I'd take at least 3000 damage. I can send Rainbow Dragon from my hand to my graveyard, and reduce the damage to 0.'

A black and imposing horn rotated like a drill, but failed to pierce all the way through the hard, diamond-like substance. 'I end my turn with a face-down. During the End phase, the ability of Doom Dolphin wears off.'

Blair: 'I draw. During my Standby phase, Bowganian deals 600 points of direct damage.' Hannah was then struck by a silver arrow fired by the Level 3 monster, reducing her points to a critical level (Hannah LP:1400-800).

'Now I'll use the 5th effect of Rainbow Ruins, to summon Crystal Beast Topaz Tiger (Atk:1600).' 'That won't do anything.' Blair then smiled. 'I know. I didn't intend to use Topaz like this. I wanted to free up a backrow slot for Mystical Space Typhoon. So Megamorph is gone. Gotta stick with the basics (Atk:3300, Amber Mammoth Atk:4500-4000).'

'Amber Mammoth, attack her Dolphin with Amber Stomp!' Blair's big bad mammoth crashed in, and a red light surrounded Hannah (Hannah LP:800-100). 'I never thought I'd need to say this – Doom Dolphin cannot be destroyed in battle.' 'I switch Bowganian to Defence mode (Def.:1000), and end my turn with a face-down.'

Hannah: 'I draw. I think I'll use my face-down Numbers Overlay Boost. Doom Dolphin has no Xyz Materials, so this card gives it two from my deck. And with that done, I'll activate Heavy Storm, to destroy your entire backrow.'

'Before you do, I activate Destruct Potion. By destroying Topaz Tiger, I can regain 1600 points (Blair LP:3200-4800).' 'Doom Dolphin's ability activates again now. By detaching an Xyz material, I can use the effect of Meteorain. So when I attack into a defending monster, you take the difference as damage. Attack Bowganian with Aurora Des Fall.'

Doom Dolphin sailed into Bowganian, and drilled right through it, Blair being pelted with the pieces. 'Uhh!' Blair then bounced onto the ground (Blair LP:4800-2500). 'And for my next trick, I activate R: Rage. I can flip the top card of my deck, and if it's a monster, I can attack again.'

'And if not?' 'My turn ends immediately.' Hannah then flipped the card. 'I just flipped Gishki Psychelone. Therefore, I can attack again. Destroy Amber Mammoth.' This time, Amber Mammoth was shut down by a jet of water from the horn, blasting Blair out of the duelling zone (Blair LP:2500-700).

As Blair jumped back in, Hannah said nothing, only laying a face-down. 'Don't forget about my Crystal.'

Blair: 'I draw. I activate One Day of Peace. Using this, we both draw a card, and neither one of us lose Life points until the end of your turn.' 'That's just stalling. You're still going to lose.' Blair then looked at the cards in her hand, and understood her move. 'I'm throwing these both face-down.'

Hannah: 'I draw. I'll equip my Dolphin with Lightlow Protection. Now if you try to change her Attack points, your card gets destroyed. I'll end my turn with a face-down. There's no point attacking this turn.'

Blair: 'I draw. I activate my face-down Rainbow Gravity. Because I have seven Crystal Beasts with different names in my graveyard or on my field, I can summon out a little thing called Rainbow Dragon (Atk:4000).'

As Rainbow Dragon appeared in all it's majesty, it shone brightly, making Hannah smile. 'I'm going to miss this. But I'm not going yet. I activate my face-down Xyz Soul. I can now target an Xyz monster in the graveyard, shuffling it into the Extra deck. Then my monsters gain it's Rank x 200 in Attack. I previously detached Northern Lights Dolphin, so that's 1600 points (Atk:3300-4900). And that's enough to finish you off.'

'Not if I activate Call of the Haunted. I told you I stick to the basics, and the basics win. I re-summon Crystal Beast Sapphire Pegasus (Atk:1800). And that lets me access Rainbow Dragon's ability. By sending a Crystal Beast to the graveyard, it gains 1000 Attack points. Rainbow Overdrive!'

Sapphire Pegasus flew into Rainbow Dragon, vanishing into it, before the sapphire light on the Dragon's neck glowed (Atk:4000-5000). Seeing this, Hannah just laughed. 'You got me.' Blair didn't look happy though, still focused. 'Rainbow Dragon, finish it. Rainbow Refraction!'

The Dragon created a rainbow in front of it's mouth, and then a fizzing rainbow-coloured light ripped towards Doom Dolphin, which held off, resulting in a blinding light. As the light dissipated, Doom Dolphin and Rainbow Dragon were in an embrace, before vanishing together (Hannah LP:100-0).

As the duel finished, Blair raised her fist, victorious. Hannah then offered a handshake, which was accepted.' 'Well done. You deserved to win.' 'You were great yourself.'

Hannah then left, and Blair raised her fist again, before turning to leave herself. Before she did though, Kari walked out to confront her. 'Oi homewrecker!' Blair then turned around. 'Yeah, you homewrecker. How does it feel ripping apart two families?'

Blair didn't speak, but was clearly confused. 'You destroyed my brother's life. Duelling was everything to him. And then he met you. You duelled each other, and you injured him, beating him, calling him a pathetic duellist.'

'And if that wasn't enough, listen up everyone, if that wasn't enough, you then have to go and wreck your own family. I mean your poor sister, America is it? Oh wait, she's not your sister, is she?' Kari then got right in Blair's face. 'Poor little orphan girl, all alone. Poor little orphan girl, nobody cares about her.'

Blair had taken enough, and flipped Kari onto her back, before they started laying punches into each other, the brawl eventually being broken up when Phil and Hannah ran out to restrain Blair, and security came out to restrain Kari.

MGA then walked down. 'What do we have here – two girls who can't keep their lids on. Kari, if you don't want to be disqualified from this tournament, then you won't touch Blair or anybody else. We do not condone bullying. If you have an issue with Blair's previous actions, then come to my office with proof.'

'As for you Blair, the Renegades are clearly doing your career no good. I suggest that you take a long look at where your career is going.' Blair then picked up a microphone. 'You're not even worth my anger. I'd rather be an orphan than be you.'

As Blair left, followed by Hannah, the fans started chanting 'You suck' and 'Kari's a bitch' at Kari. She then waited in the duelling zone before her duel.

Back in the box

As Blair returned, Sakura went up to her. 'You good at sewing Sakura?' 'Not bad, why?' 'Got a busted lip I think.' Blair then sat down, and Sakura started having a look at her. As the medical student inspected Blair's mouth, she got a shock. 'That bad?' 'Never mind a busted lip Blair, you've got a 3 inch hole in there.'

Phil then came over to her. 'You duelled really well there.' 'Thank you.' Before he could say more, Hannah came up behind him. 'Can we talk?' 'Of course we can.' As they did, Sakura continued to work on Blair.

In the car

'What appears to be wrong?' 'I wanted to talk to you about Blair.' 'Again?' 'I think she's being pushed too hard. She looks exhausted constantly, and I haven't seen her smile properly in what feels like ages.' 'She's just a bit tired.'

'A bit tired? Are you taking this seriously?' 'I am taking it seriously, and I am concerned. But perhaps she's just tired – she's duelled in pretty much every tournament this season.'

'I know. And that is something which Rio has already talked to her about.' 'How would you know?' 'Because Blair complained to me about it. Said that she has to duel to stop thinking about something.' 'Thinking about what?'

'I don't have a clue – she stopped about there. I'd guess it's related to her family issues.' 'I guess, but I should be able to read her if it's just that.' 'Well I won't say anything to her about taking time off directly, because there needs to be a good cop I think.' They then kissed, and exited the car.

Meanwhile, Freja was ready for her duel with Kari. 'Don't worry Blair, I'm going to embarrass that bitch.' 'I don't know what she's even on about.' 'Like we believe a word she says. Just jealous that she isn't as good looking as you.'

'Um thanks.' 'No need to be modest.' Blair then got a phone call. 'Hello? Jade, um, hi. I'm fine, just a busted lip. Punches like a girl. You alright? Uh, I'm kinda busy, sorry. Yeah, try and meet then. See ya.'

As she put the phone down, Freja made her entrance, Lydia by her side. Freja was wearing a pink denim jacket, which she took off, looking back at the camera playfully. She then leapt into the duelling zone, and did the salute right in Kari's face. They then both activated their duel disks (Freja's new duel disk had the wheel of fortune tarot on the top and was candy pink, Kari's was large, silver, and had a sapphire in the centre).

WDC War of Independence Round 1: Freja Mckinna (UK) LP:4000 vs. Kari Tsukumo (US) LP:4000

Turn 1: Kari: 'I draw. I summon Dododo Warrior. He usually requires a sacrifice, but if I drop his Level by 2 and his Attack by 500, he can come out and play (Atk:2300-1800). I end my turn with three face-downs.'

Freja: 'I draw. I activate the Field spell known as the Light Barrier.' A wall of light then surrounded the two duellists, barely visible. 'With this out, I can select the abilities of all Arcana Force monsters. Next I'll summon Arcana Force VI – The Lovers (Atk:1600). And because I can select their ability, I choose Heads. So now if I choose to Tribute summon an Arcana Force monster, this monster counts as twice the sacrifice.'

'How does that help you now?' 'That's easy – I activate Double Summon. So I can tribute The Lovers to summon Arcana Force XVIII – The Moon (Atk:2800). And I can select it's ability. I choose Heads. Therefore, during the Standby Phase, I get a lil' gift. Now attack Dododo Warrior.'

The Moon released a light from it's palm, destroying Dododo Warrior (Kari LP:4000-3000). 'What would your brother say if he could see you now? Of course, that's presuming your brother isn't a figment of your imagination.' This quickly riled Kari.

'How dare you! How dare you mock my kid brother and claim he doesn't exist!' Freja then responded in kind. 'If you don't want insulting, stop being a bully! Because if you're a bully, then we're going to get you in the end!'

Kari: 'I draw. I activate Hand Destruction. So we both get rid of our hands, then draw a new hand. Next I summon Gogogo Giant (Atk:2000). Because I did that, it's ability pulls out a Gogogo monster from my graveyard. Meet Gogogo Aristera and Dexia (Def.:2200, Giant Def.:0).'

'I overlay my two Level 4 monsters to build the overlay network and summon Gagaga Samurai (Atk:1900).' 'That's a monster?' 'Yes, and now you will fall prey to the ability of Aristera and Dexia. When they are overlayed with other Gogogo monsters, they can force The Moon into Defence mode and make it's Defence 0 (Def.:2800-0). And by detaching an Xyz material, Samurai can attack twice. Attack the Moon.'

'I activate my face-down My Body as a Shield. By paying 1500 Life points, I can protect my monster.' Freja was then zapped by fizzing bolts of electricity, but she just cackled manically as it did so (Freja LP:4000-2500).

'That doesn't matter – Samurai can attack twice. Attack again.' 'I discard Swift Scarecrow to negate your attack.' This move really creeped Kari out. 'What are you… why did you pay Life points needlessly?' Freja just shrugged her shoulders. 'I felt like it.' 'I… I'll just end my turn.'

In the box

Phil and Kris were watching on. 'She's one crazy chick. What's up with that shit?' 'When she joined, Freja was put under a very strong brainwashing. Hers seems to have had an unexpected effect though – she gets extremely aroused by being in pain. Seriously, she sometimes puts her hand on a naked flame just for the buzz.'

'She's one weird chick.' 'The brainwashing process I used is very advanced.' 'And?' 'Was practically untested.' Kris seemed interested. 'Sounds good.' 'If you want, I'll outline how it works in a bit. I just need to go shopping first.'

'Why?' 'Mine and Hannah's first anniversary is coming up soon. And I haven't bought anything for it yet.' 'What are you planning on buying?' 'I don't have a clue. Pretty much a case of what I can afford.'

'How much you got?' 'Whatever's in my wallet. Which is… £17.40. Think it's going to be a cheap crappy thing sadly.' Kris then looked over at him. 'You know, seems like you could buy her a burger as a present and it'd be the best burger ever.'

Back in the duelling zone

Freja: 'I draw. You know that gift I was talking about?' 'When?' 'Like, last turn? Geez – do you bitches never listen? Right, so during my Standby phase, 'cause my Moon's got it's Heads ability, I get a little Moon Token (Atk:0). Also, my Light Barrier requires a toss now. If it's Heads, I keep the Spell's effects. If Tails, then I lose it's effects this turn.' She then flipped a coin, before back-heeling it into her hand. 'It's Heads, so I'm good.'

'I'm fed-up of facing weak monsters.' 'I can help with that. I tribute my Token and The Moon to summon Arcana Force XXI: The World (Atk:3100).' 'That's a lot of points.' 'It could be worse. And it is actually. I activate Arcanetic Doomscythe. The cost of this card is an Arcana Force monster from my deck. A bit like Arcana Force I – The Magician. Now when I destroy your monster, it's Attack points come out of your Life points. Attack Gagaga Samurai.'

The two lights on the side of Arcana Force XXI's somewhat-questionable face lit up, followed by the one on the top, which unleashed a column of light, vaporising it (Kari LP:3000-1800). 'And now the effect of Arcanetic Doom Scythe will tear you apart.' A psychic scythe materialised, and shot through Kari, depleting her remaining points (Kari LP:1800-0).

As Freja was victorious, Kari threw a fit, but was quickly escorted out. Lydia and Freja then celebrated in the duelling zone, lifting their titles into the air. Freja then laughed as her music hit, and she started joking with members of the front row.

In the box, Phil was explaining how the brainwashing process worked to an inquisitive Kris, with Hannah there looking bored. 'Hannah, you've got a face like a smacked backside.' 'Well perhaps I have better things to be doing. You're the one who build the contraption.'

Kris then noticed Hannah's slight change. 'Didn't know you wore glasses.' 'Only when I'm reading – doctors reckon it's macular degeneration.' 'Sudden thing?' 'She's had it for months – she just won't tell anybody. Anyway, this is the blueprint for the machine.'

'That thing looks pretty sweet.' 'It's extremely powerful.' 'Seems it.' 'What happens is when they're in a vulnerable state, you move them to the room, and put them on the tray. After that, you decide the intensity and the power.'

'What's the difference?' 'The power determines how hard the machine pierces into the brain. Some people are stronger willed than others.' 'Like my sister who can't stay off the cigs?'

'A bit like that, yes. Anyway, the higher the power level is, the more likely a stronger-willed individual is to be under control. But with the strongest-willed, there is still no guarantees.'

'Is there a downside?' 'Yes, the higher power uses more electricity, and you can't use the machine for at least 36 hours afterwards. As for the intensity, that decides how much of their original memories they retain. What happens is that all memories are extracted for cleansing, and uploaded to a data bank.'

'Supercomputer?' 'Not quite, but somewhere close. From the data bank, it selects certain memories to delete. It shows you the deleted memories, and you can reverse any of them if you want to. Then it uploads the desired memories back. But the higher the intensity, the quicker you have to be with saving the ones you want.'

'You have other methods don't you?' 'Yes. None as scientific or precise though.' 'So those girls yesterday, is that what's going to happen to them?' 'Yes. People like them shouldn't be walking freely. So we'll strip their brains completely bare, and then reload them. We're going to make what you might call an auxiliary army.' Hannah then walked out.

As she returned to the box, Rio was just taking her first turn, facing off against Kieran's Mecha Phantom Beast Dracossack (Atk:2600), and two Mecha Phantom Beast Tokens (Atk:0)x2.

Rio: 'I'll activate Soul Exchange. This means skipping my Battle phase, but this turn, I can Tribute summon a monster using monsters you control. So I'll tribute Dracossack and one of your Tokens to summon Ice Queen (Atk:2900).'

'Damn bitch.' 'Don't know what you're complaining about, not like I can do anything to you this turn. Well apart from laying these two face-downs anyway. Your move.'

Kieran: 'I draw. I activate my face-down Xyz Reborn. So guess who's coming back for another raid – it's Dracossack (Atk:2600).' 'Before you do anything else, I activate Meteor Flame. It burns up two cards from my hand, but also burns up 2000 Life points.'

As Rio sent off her cards (Blizzard Thunderbird and Zero Blade), Kieran got blasted with a searing wind (Kieran LP:4000-2000). 'I activate Magic Production. So by banishing a Spell or Trap from my graveyard, and add a different one to my hand. By banishing Xyz Reborn, I add and activate Rank-up Magic Astral Force. So I can rank up Dracossack into something a little stronger. Meet Phantom Fortress Enterblahner (Atk:2900).'

'I'll activate it's ability. By detaching an Xyz material, I can choose from four effects. I'll destroy a card on your field. I choose Ice Queen.' The Phantom Fortress couldn't do that however, as it was being held down with strong chains.

'You really thought I wouldn't have some defence? My other face-down was Fiendish Chain. This nifty card holds down your monster, stopping it from attacking or using any effects. I hope you weren't planning on using it to attack.'

This flustered Kieran. 'I'll end my turn with a face-down.'

Rio: 'I draw. I activate the Spell card Fighting Spirit. Ice Master now gains 300 Attack points for every monster on your field (Atk:2900-3200). Attack Phantom Fortress.' Ice Master released a freezing mist from it's wand, slowly eroding the fortress (Kieran LP:2000-1700). 'I end my turn.'

Kieran: 'I draw. I'll set a monster, then activate Nightmare's Steelcage. Now for your next two turns, neither one of us is allowed to attack. That's my turn done.'

Rio: 'I draw. I activate Pot of Greed, to draw two new cards. That includes Mystical Space Typhoon, which will take care of your Steelcage. As for your monster, I have a plan for that. It's the Spell card Fairy Meteor Crush. This lets Ice Master pierce straight through your monster's defences. Now attack that Token.' Kieran had no tricks to stop the Level 8 monster attacking the defenceless Token, ending the duel (Kieran LP:1700-0).

After the duel, Rio started celebrating again with the fans in her home state. Back in the box, Phil was trying to encourage Blair to take time off.

'No.' 'Blair' 'I'm not taking time off. I'm fine.' 'You're exhausted, anybody can see that. Blair, I know there's a lot of stuff going on.' 'You don't know.' 'I know more than you think. I know you've been through a load of shit the past few months.' 'I'm fine.'

The last first round duel was Lydia and Justin. As they faced off in the duelling zone, the mood was intense. 'I'm not messing around – get out of my way or I steamroller 'ya.' 'I'm not messing around either – I came to win.' They then activated their duel disks (Justin's was gold, Lydia's was a putrid mix of orange and green).

War of Independence Round 1: Lydia Mckinna (UK) LP:4000 vs. Justin Pipe LP:4000

Turn 1: Lydia: 'I draw. I activate Hand Destruction, to throw out two cards and get two different ones. Gellenduo, you're up (Atk:1700). I end my turn with four face-downs.'

Justin: 'I draw. I set a monster. Then I'll use Book of Taiyou to flip it face up. Meet Gravekeeper's Spy (Atk:1200). Because I flipped her face-up, she can bring out Gravekeeper's Descendant (Atk:1500).'

'Descendant is going to get a boost now from The A. Forces. This Spell gives him another 200 points for every Warrior or Spellcaster on the field. All my Gravekeepers are Spellcasters, so that's 400 more points (Atk:1500-1900). Destroy that Gellenduo.'

'I activate Defence Draw. This reduces my Battle damage to zero from this one battle. And Gellenduo can't be destroyed in battle.' Descendant unleashed lightning from it's palms, but it deflected off of Gellenduo, coming to nothing. 'Next I get to draw one card.' 'I end my turn with three face-downs.'

Lydia: 'I draw. I'll activate Gellenduo's other effect – if I want to summon a high-level Light-attribute Fairy, Gellenduo is all the sacrifice I need. I tribute Gellenduo and summon out Splendid Venus (Atk:2800).'

'With Splendid Venus out, my Spells and Traps are all safe, they can't be destroyed or negated. Also, all non-Fairies wilt in her presence (Descendant Atk:1900-1400, Spy Atk:1200-700). Attack Gravekeeper's Descendant with Radiance Flare.' Venus harnessed her power, frying Descendant (Justin LP:4000-2600). 'I end my turn.'

Justin: 'I draw. I activate Ancient Rules. This allows me to summon a Level 5 or higher Normal monster with no sacrifice. I summon Dark Magician (Atk:2500-2000). And I can get rid of Splendid Venus.'

'Not with 2000 Attack.' 'No, but I can with Thousand Knives. As I have Dark Magician on the field, I can destroy a monster on your field.' Venus' splendiferousness was no help as thousands of knives flew at her, destroying her (Atk:2000-2500).

'Dark Magician, attack.' 'I activate the ability of the Clear Kuriboh in my graveyard. I can only activate it because you're attacking directly. I have to banish Kuriboh, then draw a card. If it happens to be a monster I draw, I can summon it and make it the attack target.' 'And if not?' 'Then Dark Magician can attack me still.'

Lydia then drew her card. 'That'll do – I summon Athena, graceful queen of the heavens (Atk:2600).' Justin then had no choice but for Dark Magician to face off with Athena, the Fairy monster burning it up immediately. 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Lydia: 'I draw. I activate Different Dimension Capsule.' A sarcophagus then rose onto the field, in front of Lydia. 'Now I look through my deck, take a card from it, and banish it.' As she chose her card, it appeared in the casket, which then vanished back into the ground.

'Where's it gone?' 'It's been banished. Or to be more specific, it's gone two turns into the future. Next I summon Card Guard (Atk:1600). When I summon this, I can place a Guard Counter on it. And now I'll remove that straight away.' 'Why?'

Lydia then rolled her eyes. 'Clue's in the name – Card GUARD. It allows me to place that counter on my Capsule, and now that's protected from a card effect. But with Athena, you have bigger things to worry about. Attack.'

'I activate my face-down A Hero Emerges. So you have to pick a card in my hand. If it's a monster, I can summon it.' 'I pick the middle one.' 'Well chosen – I summon Gravekeeper's Chief (Atk:1900).' 'Athena, attack.' 'I activate my other face-down. It's Dark Magic Expanded. Because I have a Dark Magician in my graveyard, Chief now gains 1000 Attack points (Atk:1900-2900).'

This time, Dark Magician released a powerful dark orb, which swallowed Athena up and disintegrated it (Lydia LP:4000-3700). 'I end my turn. It's your go Justin (Atk:2900-1900).'

Justin: 'I draw. I activate Necrovalley.' As the valleys appeared around the duellists, Chief powered up (Atk:1900-2400). 'Next I'll summon Gravekeeper's Heratic (Atk:1800-2300). 'Heratic, attack her monster. And don't bother with those face-downs, Heratic's immune to them all.'

'He might be immune to card effects, but that doesn't stop me activating Damage Diet. This halves all damage I happen to take this turn.' Heratic unleashed a blue light from it's staff, which made Card Guard vanish (Lydia LP:3700-3000).

'Gravekeeper's Chief, move in.' Chief's staff glowed, and charged straight through Lydia, reducing her score further (Lydia LP:3000-1800). 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Lydia: 'I draw. I activate One Day of Peace. Now neither of us lose any Life points until the end of your turn. And we both get a card.' 'You'll regret letting me draw again.' 'I won't do. I end my turn with a face-down.'

Justin: 'I draw. I activate Wave-Motion Cannon. So for each of my turns that passed when I destroy this, you lose 1000 points. And with 1800, you've got two turns. I end my turn.'

Lydia: 'I draw.' The Capsule then re-emerged. 'It's been two turns, so my Different Dimension Capsule returns, and I can get my card back. First though, I activate the Spell card Pop-Up. Because you control a Field Spell and I don't, I can add a Field spell to my hand. Now I'll activate it – The Sancturary in the Sky.' As she declared that, a large temple appeared, supported by clouds, with pillars above and to the side of the temple.

'With this on the field, I take no Battle damage from fairies battling on the field. I'll take advantage with Nova Summoner (Atk:1400).' 'Nova Summoner? I don't understand why you want that.'

Lydia stayed focused, looking at her face-down. 'I activate my face-down Call of the Haunted, to welcome back Athena (Atk:2600). And with that, your race is run. Nova Summoner, attack his Chief.' Summoner floated towards Chief, but was struck straight down.

'When Nova Summoner is destroyed, I can summon a Fairy with 1500 Attack or less from my deck. I choose another Nova Summoner (Atk:1400). And when I summon a Fairy, Athena deals you 600 damage.' As the second Nova appeared, Athena unleashed a ball of light from her instrument, harming Justin (Justin LP:2600-2000).

The second Nova Summoner then attacked, bringing out a third one (Justin LP:2000-1400). This was followed by the third Nova Summoner attacking. As it was destroyed, Justin smirked. 'You had me worried there.' 'And I still should. Through it's ability, I summon out Shining Angel (Atk:1400).'

'But Shining Angel...' 'Summons a monster when destroyed (Justin LP:1400-800). So I can just keep summoning.' Lydia then completed the combo with Shining Angel attacking (Shining Angel Atk:1400, Justin LP:800-200), and again (Shining Angel Atk:1400, Justin LP:200-0).

After Lydia's win, Justin seemed to consider attacking her, but instead briefly applauded Lydia, before leaving. The elder twin was then caught for an interview for the local newspaper, but made her excuses to leave before it could start.

This was followed by an intermission. During the intermission, footage was shown of Radley being escorted out by security, along with Kari. MGA then came on the screens to make an official announcement.

'Ladies and Gentlemen, as a result of her actions here today, Kari Tsukumo has been escorted out of the building. Radley has also been escorted out for security reasons, to avoid further conflict. Blair Flannigan and Rio Kastle, the Frozen Diamonds, will challenge for the WDC Tag-Team Championships in Wembley Stadium.'

As he left, Lydia and Phil talked. 'Thanks for teaching me those wicked combinations.' 'It's easy to teach, it's harder to remember. I spent weeks mastering that one in practice.'

'You know, it's a really long time since I duelled on my own like that.' 'You're a far better duellist now than you were 7 years ago. Back then, you weren't ready to compete at the next level. You are now though. By the way, your next duel's starting soon.' 'Really?' 'The scheduling a bit funny at times.' 'No kidding.'

Blair walked out for the second round first, clearly shaken still after her brawl with Kari. As she walked down, she looked over and saw Jade sat next to Ally, the two girls talking to each other.

As Lydia came out, this was a clear distraction. Lydia hurried down, and activated her duel disk, followed by Blair, who still wasn't paying full attention.

Blair Flannigan LP:4000 vs. Lydia Mckinna LP:4000

Turn 1: Blair: 'I summon Gem-Knight Garnet (Atk:1950). I end my turn with a face-down.'

Lydia: 'I draw. I activate the Field spell The Sanctuary in the Sky. To show you how it works, I summon Warrior of Zera (Atk:1600). But he's about to get his wings. Begone Warrior of Zera, arise anew Archlord Zerato (Atk:2800).'

'And I'll use the ability of Zerato. By sending Mystical Shine Ball from my hand to my graveyard, I can do this.' Gem-Knight Garnet was then scorched by sunlight emerging from pillars on the temple steps, removing it from the field.

'Zerato, wake her up will you?' Zerato crafted a ball of light in it's hands, before hurling it across the ground, striking Blair just as she looked around, blasting her in the face (Blair LP:4000-1200).

Lydia then started to get annoyed. 'Get your head in the game! I'm not duelling Blair, I'm duelling a loser! And I don't want to duel a loser! I did that in the first round! So get your head in the game!'

Blair: 'I draw. I play a monster face-down and end my turn.'

Lydia: 'Looks like I'm going to have no competition. I draw. I activate Zerato's ability again. This destroys your monster, to leave you exposed one time too many.' As Blair had another monster destroyed, she still didn't look at the races. 'Zerato, attack her directly.'

Suddenly, Blair looked around. 'By summoning out Battle Fader (Atk:0), I can end the Battle phase.' 'I end my turn.'

Blair: 'I draw. I activate Ancient Rules, to summon Gem-Knight Crystal (Atk:2450). Next I activate Absorb Fusion. This allows me to add a Gem-Knight to my hand, and then Fusion summon with it. I fuse the Crystal on my field with the Gem-Knight Lapis in my hand to Fusion summon Gem-Knight Lady Lapis Lazuli (Atk:2400).'

'With Lady Lapis Lazuli, I can deal you with 500 damage for every Special summoned monster out.' Lapis Lazuli levitated shards of various gems, before firing them straight at Lydia (Lydia LP:4000-3000).

Blair then looked at Lydia, and smiled. 'You've got a nice smile – you should use it more often.' 'Only when I'm winning. I end my turn with a face-down.'

Lydia: 'I draw. I'll discard another Fairy to use the ability of Zerato once again.' 'I activate my face-down Recall. When you activate a Monster effect, I can negate it and destroy your monster. Then you draw a card.' 'Fine. I summon Nova Summoner (Atk:1400), and end my turn with a face-down.'

Blair: 'I draw. I lay a face-down and attack your Nova Summoner.' Lapis Lazuli surrounded Nova with shards, and then crushed it with them, burying the Fairy. 'When Nova Summoner's destroyed in my Sanctuary, I can summon Airknight Parshath (Atk:1900).'

'Well now I can use the effect of Lapis Lazuli to deal another 1000 damage. Fire in the hole!' Lapis Lazuli rose up, and fired, with Lydia bracing (Lydia LP:3000-2000). 'I end my turn.'

Lydia: 'I draw. I activate Trade-In. By discarding a Level 8 or higher monster, I can draw two cards. So I'll send Master Hyperion and take my back-up.' As Lydia looked at her hand, something clicked inside. Before she did anything though, Blair took a chance. 'I activate Aegis of Gaia. As long as this card remains on the field, I gain 3000 Life points (Blair LP:1200-4200).'

'Well I have the three card combo which will beat you in one go.' 'Try it.' 'I activate the Spell card known as Celestial Transformation. This allows me to summon a Fairy from my hand, in exchange for it losing half it's Attack. In addition, it's destroyed at the End phase. You're on Athena (Atk:2600-1300).'

'Now you're probably wondering how that's going to beat you.' 'Kinda.' 'How about Inferno Reckless Summon? Because this now lets me summon two more Athenas (Atk:2600)x2. And with the first Athena, you now take 600 damage because I summoned a Fairy.'

Athena unleashed sunlight from her weapon, which blasted into Blair (Blair LP:4200-3600).' 'Normally I'd be able to summon two more monsters with Reckless Summon, but I can't with a Fusion monster.'

'For my next trick, I'll use the ability of my first Athena to tribute Parshath and summon Nova Summoner (Atk:1400, Blair LP:3600-1800). And I can do that again with my second Athena. Kiss 'em goodnight. Goodbye Nova Summoner, hello Parshath (Atk:1900, Blair LP:1800-0).

As Blair was defeated, she looked disappointed, and still somewhat distracted. The girls shared the briefest of handshakes, but Blair then disappeared into the crowd, and talked to Ally, before disappearing into the backstage area.

Meanwhile, in the box

Hannah was looking on concerned at Blair's behaviour. She then turned to Maddy, who was having lunch. As the vice-president looked up, she saw her mother staring, responding with a mouthful of crumbs. 'What?' 'Blair.' 'What about her?' 'She's acting unusually.'

'This is Blair – she is unusual. We all are.' 'Do I have to spell it out for you? I'd like you to have a word with her Maddy.' 'Technically I'm off, you do realise that? I'm off until… 5:30pm.'

'Don't give me the stuff about being ill.' 'Not that.' 'What then?' 'I were told that I could have till 5:30 off.' 'When did I say that?' 'Yesterday. I asked for the day off duties, you said I could have until half 5 off if I stopped complaining about getting no time off.'

'Listen, I'm asking nicely here.' 'And I'm tellin' you nicely – she's got some stuff going on in her head, it ain't anything to do with me. The only person she's ever gonna tell anything like this to is Rio, and she ain't sharing, so I ain't searching. Now can I finish my lunch?' Hannah rolled her eyes, and Maddy continued eating.

Backstage

Jade walked over to Blair, who was very on edge. 'Blair, I'd like to talk.' 'About what? You've been stalking me all day.' 'Stalking you? I rang you to check on you after some bitch beat you up.'

'Why though? You've known me… well you don't know me, not really. You flirt for a living.' 'You think I liked working there? I only did it because I'm lonely. I've seen hundreds of girls there, all ages. And I remembered none of them 5 minutes later. I downed half a bottle of vodka last night, and I still can't get you out of my head. I don't know what it is about you, but you've got me like nobody else could.'

'I can't and you know I can't.' 'Why not?' 'I'm not running off with the first woman to show an interest in me. How am I even supposed to trust you?' Jade then left, looking back only briefly. 'You know where I am when you want it.' Shortly after leaving, Jade received a phonecall. 'Hello, Jade Emerald. Oh, hiya. Erm… sure. Ok, sure, I'll be over. 7 do you? Great – see ya later.'

In the duelling zone

Rio and Freja were facing off, both smiling. 'Hey Rio, I hope you're not too bothered about losing.' ' I hate it – good job I don't have to. You fancy doing this then?' 'Why not?' They then both activated their duel disks.

Rio Kastle LP:4000 vs. Freja McKinna LP:4000

Turn 1: Freja: 'I draw. I activate the Field spell Light Barrier.' The two duellists were surrounded by a fierce wall of light as the card was activated. 'Now I can choose the effect of my Arcana Force monsters. So I'll summon Arcana Force VII – The Chariot (Atk:1700). And I'll choose his heads ability.'

'Could have done without that.' 'Next I activate Cup of Ace. Now I toss a coin. If it's Heads, I draw two cards. If Tails, you draw two cards.' Freja then flicked the coin into the air, and her eyes flashed red. 'It's Heads. So that's two more cards for me. I'll lay them both face-down and end my turn.'

Rio: 'I draw. I summon Graydle Eagle (Atk:1300).' 'I heard you talking about the combo earlier – you won't catch me out with it.' 'I know. So i'll just have to activate Rush Recklessly. This gives Eagle 700 more Attack points until the End phase (Atk:1300-2000).'

'Eagle, attack her Chariot.' 'You just ran into my face-down – Draining Shield. This negates your attack and I gain 2000 Life points (Freja LP:4000-6000). 'I end my turn with five face-downs (Atk:2000-1300).'

Freja: 'I draw. During my Standby phase, I have to flip a coin due to Light Barrier. If it lands on Heads, I'm good. If not, it's effects are negated until my next Standby phase.' She then flipped it again, manipulating with her power. 'It's Heads, so I'm good. Next I summon Counsellor Lily (Atk:400). She's not staying though, because I'm tuning with my Level 4 Chariot. Time for you to see something you wouldn't expect, from the book of my sister! I summon Ancient Sacred Wyvern (Atk:2100).'

'Wyvern's ability is very special – when my Life points are higher than yours, it gains Attack equal to the difference (Atk:2100-4100). And because Lily was used, I can pay 500 points to have Wyvern gain 1000 Attack until the End phase (Freja LP:6000-5500, Wyvern Atk:4100-3600-4600).'

'It's time for my Wyvern to attack Graydle Eagle.' As Freja declared an attack, she saw that her monster wasn't moving, but had a sinister shadow underneath it. 'I said attack!' Rio then smiled. 'Wyvern can't attack – I activated my face-down Shadow Gravity. Your monster's shadow is pinned to the ground, stopping it from attacking. In addition, it loses 600 Attack points, and you lose 600 points during every End phase either one of us have (Atk:4600-4000).' 'I guess there ain't anything else to do but end my turn with a face-down (Atk:4000-3000).' The pinned shadow of Wyvern then surrounded Freja, before erupting above her (Freja LP:5500-4900, Wyvern Atk:3000-2400).

Rio: 'I draw. I activate my face-down Heavy Storm Duster. In exchange for my Battle phase, I can destroy up to two of your Spells or Traps. I'm not bothered about Light Barrier, so i'll take out your face-downs.' Two tornados ripped through the stadium, and blew away Freja's face-downs (Reversal of Fate and Berserker Soul).

'Next I'll summon Cardcar D (Atk:800).' 'Didn't have you down as a petrolhead.' 'A what? Actually, never mind that – I'll use Cardcar's ability, to tribute itself, then draw two cards and end my turn instantly (Freja LP:4900-4300, Wyvern Atk:2400-1800).'

Freja: 'I draw. I'll set a monster and end my turn with a face-down (Freja LP:4300-3700, Wyvern Atk:1800-1200).' Freja was plotting a move unbeknownst to Rio. ("Even if Wyvern's destroyed this turn, I can bring it back for 1000 points next turn, and then I can summon Arcana Force XX. I'll attack her directly and she'll be down to 1000 points. Then she can't risk Graydle Eagle's ability").

Rio: 'I draw. I activate Dark World Lightning. All I have to do is discard one card, and your face-down is destroyed.' Freja then watched as her face-down (Miraculous Descent) was destroyed. 'Next I summon Crane Crane (Atk:300). When mr. Tall is on the field, he can pull a Level 3 monster out of my graveyard. I choose Graydle Cobra (Atk:1000).'

'Now I'll overlay my three Level 3 monsters to build the overlay network. I Xyz summon Tri-Edge Levia (Atk:1800). Levia, attack Ancient Sacred Wyvern. Spear Slice.' Levia charged with it's long spear, felling the Wyvern (Freja LP:3700-3100). 'I can pay 1000 points to bring my Wyvern back.'

'Not if Tri-Edge Levia destroys it. Any monster destroyed in battle with Levia is banished and doesn't go to the graveyard. I end my turn with a face-down.'

Freja: 'My turn.' Freja then flipped a coin again, with it landing on Heads. 'Good – Light Barrier's still in play. So I can tribute my face-down monster to summon Arcana Force VIII – The Strength (Atk:1800). His ability depends on a coin toss. If it lands on Heads, I gain control of Levia. If it's Tails, you gain control of one of my monsters other than this card. Oops – I don't have any.'

With her power, Freja once again manipulated the toss. 'It's Heads, so Levia is coming with me. And he'll attack you directly.' 'I activate my face-down Negate Attack. This puts the breaks on you and ends the Battle phase.' 'I end my turn.'

Rio: 'I draw. I activate 5 Card Salute, to give my hand a boost. And that's just what I wanted. For now, I'll lay a face-down and end my turn with two face-downs.'

Freja: 'I draw.' 'I activate my face-down Remove Brainwashing. I know it's counter-productive for us, but it allows me to get my Levia back.' 'Not a problem. To start, I'll flip a coin to decide Light Barrier's effect.' She then threw the coin into the air, letting it land on her hand. 'It's Heads, so I keep it's effects.'

'I activate Tribute Doll, to let me use my Strength as two monsters for a tribute summon. I tribute Arcana Force VIII, to Advance summon Arcana Force XVI – The Tower (Atk:2600).'

'Nice move.' By this time, Freja's face had become contorted, one of rage. 'I can choose the ability of Tower now. I choose Heads. So now, all other cards on the field are destroyed. And for each one destroyed, you lose 400 Life points.'

The Tower unleashed blazing fire, which fried every card on the field, and turned into a cannon, firing into Rio (Rio LP:4000-2500). 'Arcana Force XVI, attack her directly!' 'Guard Penguin, go!' Rio's Penguin leapt out of her hand, and as Tower's cannons unleashed blasts of darkness, blocked the attack (Atk:0).

As Rio breathed heavily, she smiled. Freja by now was desperate. 'I activate Wave-Motion Cannon, and end my turn.'

Rio: 'I draw. I summon Blizzard Falcon (Atk:1500). Next I activate Trap Booster, allowing me to utilise Graverobber. This takes a card from your graveyard and gives it to me.' 'It's no use to you.' 'It is when the card I'm taking is Reversal of Fate.'

This stunned Freja. 'But...' 'But nothing. If you want to bring the aggression so will I. Now your Tower's effect is treated as Tails.' The Tower then started smoking (Atk:2600-1600). 'Now I'll tribute Guard Penguin and summon out Sirenorca (Atk:2200). But she's only staying for Gift of the Martyr. This tributes Sirenorca, but her points go back into Blizzard Falcon (Atk:1500-3700).'

'And as you know, when Falcon's Attack goes up, your points go down.' Falcon slammed into Freja in a jet of ice (Freja LP:3100-1600). 'Blizzard Falcon, attack Arcana Force XVI with Blizzard Mirage.' Falcon swooped down at a harsh angle, splitting the Tower in half (Freja LP:1600-0).

After the duel, Rio raised her fist in victory. Freja then let her hair down, and shook Rio's hand. Freja then walked off, while Rio took a moment to breathe. Rio then returned as well, raising her fist as she did.

Back in the box

As Rio returned, Lydia was the first to come over. 'Nice duel. You won't have it so easy against me.' 'I don't count on having it easy.' After Lydia said this, Blair came over to Rio as well. 'You want any cards for the final?' 'Thanks, but I'll stick with this deck. Got this far with it didn't I?'

'At least someone's doing a decent job.' Rio then smiled at her. 'Come on, you had one bad duel. How many have I had so far?' 'You're great though.' 'Coming from you? You were ace against Hannah earlier.' 'Thank you. I was just so determined to win.'

Meanwhile, Sakura was with Maddy, who had just washed her latest bout of ethanol down. 'How you feeling now?' 'Yeah, bit better thanks.' 'You still sound a bit hoarse.' 'I'll be fine. How long do I have to take that stuff for?'

'See how you go for a couple more days, and then we'll see if you're well enough. You were lucky that you tasted the poison early enough.' 'How could I not taste it man? Disgusting.'

20 minutes later

Rio and Lydia were facing off in the duelling zone for the final. They both stared at each other, and then activated their duel disks one after the other, to start the duel.

War of Independence Final: Lydia Mckinna LP:4000 vs. Rio Kastle LP:4000

Turn 1: Lydia: 'I start. I draw. I'll play a monster face-down and end my turn.'

Rio: 'I draw. I'll set a monster myself, and then play five face-downs. Back to you.'

Lydia: 'I draw. I'll lay another face-down and set another monster. Your turn.'

Rio: 'I draw. I summon Blizzard Falcon (Atk:1500). Next I'll flip Aurora Wing face-up (Atk:1200). And with a Field spell, my stage is set – I activate Lemuria the Forgotten City.' An Atlantis-like city materialised on the field, appearing from the deep to live again, in a pristine white.

'While here, all my monsters gain 200 points if they are Water monsters (Falcon Atk:1500-1700, Wing Atk:1200-1400). In addition, due to Lemuria's other effect, I can have both my monsters gain a Level for every Water monster out (Level:4-6)x2. Don't forget about Falcon's ability by the way.' Falcon glowed, and surged straight through Lydia's field, striking her in the midsection (Lydia LP:4000-2500).

Rio then took a deep breath. 'I overlay my Level 6 Aurora Wing and Blizzard Falcon to build the overlay network, and Xyz summon Number 21: Frozen Lady Justice (Atk:500-700). When Justice is on the field, she gains 1000 Attack for every Xyz material she has (Atk:700-2700). And by detaching a material (Atk:2700-1700), she can destroy every monster in Defence mode. Make them eat a Frostburn Sword.'

Frozen Lady Justice's sword glowed white, and she swooped across the ground, drawing a line in the process which opened up, swallowing Lydia's monsters whole. 'Attack her directly with Justice Hand.' Number 21 fired a beam of ice from her hand straight at Lydia, giving chills (Lydia LP:2500-800). 'I end my turn.'

Lydia: 'I have to go for it. I draw.' 'Sorry Lydia, but I'm not giving you the chance. I came to win.' 'I understand.' 'I activate my face-down Call of the Haunted. So Blizzard Falcon's coming back (Atk:1500-1700).' Falcon then slammed into Lydia again, bringing the curtain down on proceedings (Lydia LP:800-0).

As the duel finished, Lydia walked over to shake Rio's hand, and they shared words. 'Would have liked to put up more of a challenge.' 'One mistake. All you made. One mistake.' They then hugged, and Lydia left, leaving Rio to be interviewed by the local reporter.

'Congratulations Rio, you're the champion of the War of Independence.' 'Cheers, I'm just so pleased to be able to do it right here. I know I'm from Twin Falls, but I've been visiting Boise regularly from an early age. I remember when I was about 3 my mom used to bring me down here all the time – there was this really great ice-cream place, we'd just go there and spend the afternoon.'

'I'm sure you could talk for ages about that, and I'm sure that it's a really great story. I just want to talk to you though about the way you've duelled here. We've seen a much more tactical and patient side that we've not really seen so much from you so far. Are you more comfortable with this style, or is it a style you've adopted after advice from your manager Phil?'

Rio laughed briefly. 'Yeah, I'm much more comfortable with my game now. This is the way I've always duelled before I got to the pro ranks. I think I was just trying to fit in with the faster-paced duelling of the professional tour, but I'm far more comfortable duelling how I did here.'

'Well you've come through three very tough duels. Is it different duelling a friend to duelling someone like Kieran who you have no apparent connection to?' 'It's easier and more difficult. Because you both know each other's cards, it's a case of who can come up with something the other one hasn't seen. Like against Freja, she knew about my plan with Graydle Eagle because I was discussing it with Phil, so I had to come up with something else on the fly. Just one of those things where you need 100 plans in your back pocket.'

'I'm sorry Rio, I'd love to talk to you all day, but we're running out of time. Is there anything you'd like to say to the crowd?' Rio then took the microphone. 'You're all fabulous, Idaho is just the greatest, I love you all. Apart from the ones who booed me, you can go to hell. But everyone else, I love you!' Rio then lead an Idaho chant, as well as a Renegades salute (made by nearly the entire crowd) as the interview wrapped up. 'Ladies and Gentlemen, Rio Kastle!'

As the show ended, Rio started signing some autographs, and talking to old friends. Over an hour later, she finally returned to the box to find nobody there. 'Gee, thanks for waiting everyone.' She then found a note from Blair. "Everyone else gone to house, I've gone to sort out some business, see you about 8. B."

After this, Rio walked around the arena by herself for a few minutes. 'This is all just too crazy – I get to come home, I win a tournament, and I find that Blair fancies and hates my best mate who I thought was dead for a decade plus. This is all just too weird. Talking of weird, I wonder where Birchall is…'

7:20pm, at the house

As Blair returned to the mansion in Twin Falls, she replaced her shirt with a red vest, and bumped into Phil immediately. 'You're out late aren't you?' 'Just got back – I was meeting Myka.'

'Who?' 'Myka – Maddy's half sister.' 'Oh yeah, I remember the story now.' 'Yeah, I was just seeing if she's going to meet Maddy.' 'And?' 'She said she'll come over – seems pretty curious about having a sister she never knew about. Anyway, I'm going up to my room.'

Before she did, Phil stopped her for a brief moment. 'About your duel earlier.' 'I lost concentration, I know.' 'All I'm going to say is that if something's troubling you, tell me. I want to know.' 'Sure.' Blair then hurried up to her room.

As she arrived there, she was astonished and dismayed to see Jade sat there. 'What are you doing here? Are you insane? I told you to stop stalking me earlier!' 'Hey, I was invited in here, don't have a go at me!'

Rio then walked into the room, a towel over her bare body. 'Blair, what's going on?' 'I'm being stalked again, that's what!' Rio then just shook her head. 'B, I don't know what's wrong with you, but I invited Jade in here – I figured with you out for some of the evening I'd invite Jade over – have a bit of a catch-up.'

Jade then picked up her jacket. 'This was a mistake, I'm sorry Riana. I'd better go. I'll speak to you later.' As Jade was halfway through the door, she heard Blair's voice. 'Stop.' As she looked round, Blair was sat down on her bed.

'What is wrong with you?' 'I… I don't know. I'm just a trainwreck mentally.' 'Well it seems like you hate me the way you've been going on. I just want to know where I stand.' 'I don't hate you… I'm scared. You won't tell anyone, right Jade?'

Jade then laughed. 'Who've I got to tell? Nearly all my "friends" distanced themselves from me when I started working as a dancer. Told me they "couldn't associate" with somebody in that line of work. You want me to shut the door?' 'Sure.' Jade then slowly extended her right leg back, pushing the door closed with incredible poise and balance.

'Where'd you learn to do that?' 'That's nothing. When you're in my ex-profession now, you learn to do crazy hot things with your legs. The customers like to have a show. Don't take this the wrong way darling, but you don't look like the kinda person to be making a regular habit of lesbian strip clubs.'

'I'm not. Rio bought me a ticket and didn't tell me until we got there.' 'We only went there so early because there's no decent bars around anymore.' 'Tell me about it – can't get a decent drink anywhere.' Jade then let her hair down, to reveal a small emerald indented on her forehead, and she touched Blair's forehead.

Rio then asked the obvious question. 'Um what are you doing to her?' 'I don't know why, but sometimes I can feel people's emotions.' Jade then stepped back, shocked. 'I can feel… it's not me that scared you. Something's weighing you down. Did somebody… possibly abuse you.'

Blair then started playing nervously with the crucifix around her neck, as Rio looked at her. 'B, am I allowed to say?' Blair just nodded. Rio then began to explain everything which had happened between Blair and Claude.

As she finished the explanation, Jade seemed to understand. 'Nobody should ever have to go through that.' 'Where's the bit where you tell me how brave I am?' 'What – and patronise you? That's the last thing you need.' 'What do I need then?'

Jade just stared at Rio. 'She's all you need – my Dad always told me that if you've got one great friend in the world, then that's all you need. Honestly though Blair, if I'm not too scary, I'd love to get to know you.' Blair then just lay back. 'I guess so. But for now let's just talk about Rio's win.' The girls then had a private celebration all night long.

Meanwhile, in an unknown location in the south of England

Birchall was just sat there, polishing a silver item, making it glisten and shimmer. As he did that, he laughed, while looking at some photos, and a framed picture of Hannah. 'Hannah, you think you can reject me? Well me and my baby say otherwise – soon you'll be my baby.'

Next time: Blair faces a moral dilemma, Birchall continues to plot, and Maddy meets her half-sister Mika in The Renegade Revolution Chapter 56: Morality