Renegades: A New Dawn

by Primal WolfBlood

In Part 3 of The Renegade Chronicles, follow the Renegades as they try and recover from the shocking end to The Renegade Revolution, and continue their lives with more action and suspense than ever before, as they learn who the true enemies are, and finally confront Segolia once and for all, to end their clash with each other.

60. Blockbusters

Renegades: A New Dawn

Chapter LX: Blockbusters

WDC/LFD Supershow: Kristiansand card:

Against All Odds qualifier: Claude Duane vs. Johnny McGregor

Against All Odds qualifier (Non-Title duel): Maddy Smith vs. Chazz Princeton

Freja McKinna vs. Kalin Kessler

Against All Odds qualifier: Phil Robinson vs. Sara Sawyer

Against All Odds qualifier: Kieran Byrne vs. Celina

LFD Tag-Team Championships: Dynasty (Freja McKinna/Belle Draper) vs. [c] New Church (Caleb Murphy and Shay Obsidian)

With the next event being a homecoming for Astrid, she should have been excited. But instead, she was thinking about other things. 'I can't believe they arrange for me to do a school visit of all things, and then put me in a five-way at Against All Odds.' With her was Kris, who was trying to look for positives. 'It's a chance to prove yourself? Everyone could turn against each other, so you just need to do what you do. I thought you were looking forward to the visit anyway?' 'I am, but… I don't know what I'm even going to say there.'

'Just be yourself, talk about you and where you've come from. They want to know you and it's a chance to inspire.' 'How can I knowingly promote a company who have betrayed me though?' Kris' reply was surprising. 'Don't.' 'Pardon?' 'You've got no reason to promote the WDC, promote yourself, promote the club, promote the arena, promote our relationship, literally anything you like. As long as you're not too rude about them. Just a little misbehaviour, ok?' She laughed at what he said. 'You are the Saviour I suppose, I should listen to you.' 'Is this Astrid Hofferson saying she should listen to me? You really have changed.'

Meanwhile at the back of the ferry, Rio appeared to be somewhat frustrated. 'When do I get a title shot? Claude's not won a duel in six million years, Sara got obliterated by Maddy the last time she had a title shot, I literally just beat Kieran to win the Baltic Championships, the fuck do I have to do?' 'Beats me, I've been pushing for you to get a title shot for ages. I've also been pushing for Blair to get a shot but for some inexplicable reason, she doesn't want one.' Blair herself then replied to him. 'I told you, I'm enjoying the tag division and I'm too busy to do all the media work. I'm struggling to keep up as it is, between Ally, Jade, and the fact we're kinda house hunting.'

'Househunting? Why?' 'Jade's landlord doubled the rent last month, and it's not really big enough for the four of us. We're trying to get something in the same area if we can, because we really love the community around there. Also, please will you tell Rio that she is NOT paying for it.' 'Why not?' 'Because you don't have infinite money. I know that you're not struggling for cash, but you already paid for our rent for the past however long, you keep paying for our shopping, just… calm down.'

'Well I'm not going to be able to use it when I'm gone' Rio replied, irking her friend. 'We already went through this when doing the photobook - we're having none of that talk.' 'Why, because it isn't going to happen?' 'No, because every moment you spend talking about it is a moment not spent doing the thing that you promised me you were going to do - live.' These words gave Rio a lot to think about, and she went silent for the rest of the ferry ride.

As the ferry disembarked in Kristiansand, Astrid should have been enjoying her home country and preparing for the day. But instead, she was more interested in advising Blair and Rio on child-friendly sites. 'So the largest mall in the country is about 20 minutes away by taxi, 40 by bus, the zoo is only about 20 minutes from the mall, and there's a pretty nature park that's a short walk from the venue.' 'Thanks' Rio replied, while Blair was distracted by a malfunctioning phone.

'What's wrong with this thing?' 'Calm down B' 'I'm trying to get in contact with Jade, I'm concerned about her.' 'I told you, she's been to the doctor's, they've given her some antibiotics.' This caught Astrid's attention. 'What's going on?' 'Jade's been feeling unwell for a couple of days which is why she isn't here. She went to her GP yesterday and she got diagnosed with bronchitis. So she's on bed rest for a few days and has stripped the local supermarket of all its mineral water.'

By this time, Blair had stolen Rio's phone. 'Jade, you ok?' A slightly wheezy voice came from the other end. 'I'm fine, it's just a *cough* chest infection. I'm just a little chesty, that's all. You go and enjoy yourselves, I'll see you in a couple of days.' 'But are you sure' 'Blair, stop fussing, I'm feeling ok, I've not even got it bad. Just go and enjoy yourself, and don't forget to send me pictures.' Suddenly Rio yoinked her phone back. 'Sorry, she pinched my phone while I was talking with Astrid.' 'It's fine, it's nice to hear her voice. And yours.'

'Thanks. How are you feeling?' 'Alright honestly, I just need to stop coughing. Did you manage to get over your seasickness?' 'Yeah, who knew the solution was just to not eat? Talking of, I'm starving.' 'Well you've apparently got a good tour guide there, so I'll let you go and get something to eat. I'll see you in a couple of days.' 'Ok, make sure to keep drinking.' 'Will do, already been through two litres today and it's not even 2pm.' 'Look after yourself.' 'Thanks.'

After this, the club split up, with Astrid, Maddy and Kris headed to the nearby school, while Blair, Ally and Rio went off to the zoo. Meanwhile, Phil, Belle and Freja headed straight to the arena. 'Right, first of all, Freja, are you sure you're fit for double duty?' 'Shoulder's never felt better. I just want to get out there and get stuck in, I've been desperate to show you how much I've improved with the deck.' 'I want to see how much you've improved. Now some advice - Kalin is going to be EXTREMELY angry.' 'So you want me to use that against him?' she hissed, being strongly influenced by his previous language. 'Yes. The more you lock him down, the angrier he will get, the more mistakes he will make.'

He then passed a card to her. 'You sure?' 'Absolutely. Use only if you absolutely feel the time is right.' She just nodded in response, looking up at him. 'I will do as you wish.' 'As I hoped. Belle, you over your issues last week?' 'Yeah, I'm sorry, I was just really struggling with the fact that I couldn't touch Freja in the arena. Luckily Blair gave me a little bit of advice, I feel more confident now. Any advice on the tag duel?' As she asked, he sat down with them, and pulled out his tablet.

'Caleb Young and Shay Obsidian have been teaming for three years, so they know each other well. They've held the titles for 400 days, and have defeated all comers. They aren't known for being the quickest in the world, Shay has the reputation for being a little bit of a hot head, and Caleb is a real psychological wizard, he'll get in your mind before you know it and start influencing your plays, either scaring you off or tempting you in.' 'So don't listen to him?' 'I don't care if you listen to him, but don't let him distract you. Your aim is to win, not to humour him.'

'Shay plays Raidraptors, basically imagine Rio's deck if her monsters actually had a recognisable amount of Attack points and didn't attack 5000 times. If you can avoid it, don't let him get to Ultimate Falcon, it's immunity to effects and huge Attack makes it the perfect counter to your deck in particular Belle. Freja you might be fine, because your Drytron Rituals are bigger. But I don't imagine they'll be desperate to let you get to it. Belle, if you get an opportunity early doors, the Zaborg play is good - you can rip apart Shay's Extra deck, and remove the best targets for Caleb's key card - Dogmatika Punishment.' 'Got it.' 'You've got this.'

As they arrived at the arena, they were approached by a local reporter. 'Mr. Robinson, a few words regarding the title duel tonight?' He put on his glasses, and calmly stated 'This is their time. Tonight, the Renegade revolution continues, the Dynasty builds, and my latest clients get the taste of gold.' 'Your opponents' 'Are very capable, I am aware of their capabilities. But you're not aware of Freja and Belle's capabilities. This is going to be the crowning moment.' 'And about your Against All Odds qualifier tonight?' 'No comment' was the stern reply. As he went to walk off, Freja took her turn.

'We've worked too hard to fail, we've got too much to lose. You might be good but you've not got as much to fight for as us, and you're not willing to give everything for the cause. You're not family, you're not the Dynasty, the hand-picked successors to the greatest of all time. And right here tonight, you're not going to be the winners, and after tonight, you're not going to be carrying around those tag titles. And Kalin, if you thought facing my sister was bad, you're in for a new kind of hell courtesy of the red right hand!' Belle meanwhile just raised the symbol before they all left.

Akademiet Kristiansand

As the three of them entered the old, wooden school hall, the students made a huge amount of noise seeing them, only for one of the teachers to quieten them down quickly. And as Astrid nodded, Maddy spoke. 'Now we're supposed to be here to promote the show later today, so hands up, who knows there's a show on today?' As almost every hand went up, she grinned. 'Ok, that's the promotion done. How about we do… a Q&A? Any questions, just ask us, we'll let your teachers decide who asks when.'

The first question was from an 8 year old. 'How long are you here for?' Astrid looked at Maddy, who responded by saying 'Well we're in the school for as long as you'll have us, but in terms of Norway, we're getting the boat back tomorrow lunchtime, and heading straight to Aberdeen for the next event. Then we got about 4 days back at home before going to Las Vegas for Against All Odds. Fun fun fun all this.' Another question then came in. 'What's it like being WDC Champion?' Astrid giggled at the question, causing Maddy to tap her playfully on the back. 'C'mon Astrid, don't get all shy on us.' 'Never mind that, you just shut up.'

She then brushed her hair to the side and smiled. 'It's great, it really is.' She then showed the gleaming title off. 'It's all I dreamt of since I was a little kid, I used to tell my Mama that I'd be there one day lifting the title, telling people that I'm the best, and now I am. This represents everything I've been through; every scar, every broken neck, every time I was cheated out of an opportunity, it's all worth it for this. Finally, everything makes sense. All the sacrifice and the time and energy meant something, I had something to show for it. Couldn't have done it without these two though.'

'And Kris, what's it like being the lover of the Champion?' The question made him laugh. 'Yeah, it's… quite an event. It just makes me happy first of all that one of the Renegades won it, but secondly that it happened to be someone I'm so close to, and someone who I've seen go through so much even in the time I've known her, she'll kill me for saying this but I'm really proud of her.' As she looked over and smiled, slightly embarrassed, another question came for Astrid. 'Living in Alta, did you ever visit the rock museum?' She just laughed. 'Visit? I practically lived in there. When I was your age, I'd only ever be watching duelling, practising my duelling, or going to the museum. I don't think anybody could keep up with me.'

'Is your hair colour natural?' 'Yep, 100% natural. It used to be a bit darker than this, but I want to say in my early teens, it started to get much lighter. When it's washed it goes really shiny for a few days as well.' 'Did you ever consider anything other than duelling as a career?' 'Funny thing is, when I was in secondary school, I was voted "Most likely to become a teacher", and I've always got on with kids, so I could have done that. Might still look at it in the future.' As the questions continued, two Year 6 students jumped up at the same time, and shouted their questions over each other, leading to Astrid mediating. 'Why don't you ask your questions straight after each other, and we can answer them?' Their teacher then stepped in. 'Bogdan, you first, then Anna.' 'I wanted to ask Maddy what she was like at school and what subjects she liked.' 'I wanted to ask Kris what Astrid and Maddy's annoying habits are.'

As they all laughed, Maddy smiled. 'Wow… school. You wouldn't believe how average I was at school, you really wouldn't. I was… absolutely there, I turned up, I got alright grades, pretty much Bs and Cs across the board. Subjects, I enjoyed P.E. when it was Cross Country, other than that I wouldn't exactly say I "enjoyed" school, but I was decent at English, Science, Geography, I was alright at Maths as well.' Then it was time for Kris to answer his question. 'Maddy, if I talk about you' 'I'll try not to kill ya. No guarantees though.' As they laughed, he clarified himself.

'Look, Maddy, what you see is what you get, she doesn't just play the brash and wild Northerner, she really IS that. And that's sort of the best and worst thing about her. She's really hard to understand at times, especially when she's angry, and if she's annoyed with you, she ABSOLUTELY is going to tell you, and it's not going to be dressed up, she's telling you straight and then dragging you to the office by your ear.' As he said this, she just looked at him and grinned. 'Cheeky git.' 'Just saying you're honest.' 'Blunt you mean?' 'Yep. Something like that anyway. So yeah, if I had to say she had a worst quality, maybe the fact is she doesn't take praise.'

As he said this, she looked around in surprise. 'I do.' 'Yeah, you'll take praise, but I don't think you really realise how much you actually mean to the people around you. It's so all business with you that you don't take time to take your flowers.' Astrid then concurred. 'I mean he's not wrong, you're the worst at taking compliments. We all love you, but I don't think you realise it.' Slightly embarrassed, Maddy quickly changed the subject. 'So what's Astrid's worst quality? 'Cause I can't think of anything.' He laughed, and came up with something.

'The fact she hogs the shower.' 'I do not!' she replied, shocked. 'You spent an entire hour in there the other day. Which I wouldn't have minded if you hadn't spent almost the same amount in there the previous day. She tends to forget that other people need to be clean.' As they continued to squabble, the next question came in for Maddy. 'Just wanted to say your hair looks amazing.' 'Thanks' she replied, again slightly taken aback. 'Who did it? Or did you do it yourself?' She laughed, and revealed the secret. 'Would you believe I had no idea how it was gonna turn out? It was actually someone you've probably heard of, her name's Blair Flannigan, and she won't tell you this but she actually came over to the UK as a hairdresser originally.'

A very poignant question then came in from one of the teachers. 'Something a few of the students wanted to ask but didn't know how to, what exactly happened when you were ill over the mid season break?' 'What've you heard?' 'We just know you were in the hospital, it seemed quite serious, and you took a while away.' 'Ok, well Phil and Hannah did address it in… India was it? Straight after the break, but that ended up being buried on the WDC's website. So this is… a story.'

She took a breath, and revealed everything. 'So I'd been feeling proper rough leading up to the break, so I went on a quick holiday to Wales, I was staying with a close friend of mine, Jana. On the 2nd day there, I collapsed in the early hours, I don't remember what happened but I was apparently found outside bleeding. I ended up being diagnosed with full on kidney failure as a result of appendicitis and…' She then quickly walked over to one of the staff members to clarify what she was allowed to say, before returning. 'Right, I'm allowed to say this, because I want you all to learn from my mistakes. My kidneys were wrecked because I drunk too much alcohol too often and I used to be a bit of a drug addict. And it nearly killed me.'

'The only reason I got through it is because Blair gave me one of her kidneys. As soon as she knew she was a match, she signed up.' Kris then briefly interjected. 'And just to clarify, I was the only other match for blood type in the club, but I couldn't give her a kidney because I'd only just finished treatment for cancer at the time, and so going through that could have put us both in danger.' 'So yeah, the next time people talk about me and Blair not being friends, just remember that I really do owe her everything.' The next question turned out to be one related to the topic. 'And how are you now?'

'Erm… alright. It's a proper long road, and I have really bad days sometimes. I'm taking anti-rejection medication, I've got some with me.' She reached into her back pocket, and held the small canister of brown plastic. 'If I don't take four of these every day, two before I get out of bed and two before I go to bed, my… loaner kidney might get attacked by my own body.' 'Why though?' 'It kind of just sees the kidney that she gave me, and because it isn't my own one, it sees it as an intruder, and attacks it. Obviously your immune system is supposed to be getting rid of any intruders from your body, like viruses. The anti-rejection meds just calm it down and weaken its response.' 'How long are you on the medication for?' 'Well… the rest of my life honestly. It's as long as the organ lasts, but because both my kidneys were basically dead, if this one fails I need to have another transplant. So if you take nothing else away from today, take this away - please, never even consider doing drugs. I only did them for a few months and as a result I have to take these for the rest of my life.'

Another shout-out then came. 'When I'm done with school I'm going to become a pro just like all of you.' Maddy then addressed it. 'Please don't quit education just to do that, because you neve know what's gonna happen.' 'Are you still studying?' 'Yeah, I'm actually going to Uni in September… hopefully.' 'What are you studying?' 'Photography. It's ironic because I'm actually kind of shy naturally, I never wanted to be in front of the camera. I've always been happier behind it. But I do it because I just kind of love the fans, when I hear them go berserk like that suddenly everything's worth it.'

The final question was for Astrid. 'Would you ever defend your title against someone from the Leo?' 'Absolutely. I'll go anywhere for a sufficient challenge. Viking's honour.' 'And Maddy?' She just held her title out in front of her. 'I'll take on anybody, if they think they can beat me then come get me. I'm not scared of anyone or anything, because I know that this title is all the proof I need. Neither of us will ever back down from a challenge. None of us do, that's why we're the Renegades. Changing the world for the better. Thank you.' As they walked off, they were applauded, and two students ran up to Maddy.

'Hey.' 'Can we become members? Of the Renegades?' 'We love you all!' Astrid smiled sweetly as Maddy squatted down to them, clearly in some discomfort. 'We can't let you right now, but if you give us your details, you can apply to us as soon as you turn 16.' They agreed, and handed their names over to her. 'For now, study hard, get the best grades you can, and maybe buy some of our merchandise occasionally if you've saved up your money really hard.'

Outside, Astrid and Kris started talking. 'So have you been considering the offer from Declan?' 'I don't know, I should just accept it but there's something kind of dirty about it.' 'More dirty than trying to screw you out of the title?' 'True… how about you?' 'I've agreed terms with LFD, just need to get the contract signed.' Maddy then interjected. 'Don't forget to get Frances to look over the contract first, remember that she works for us first and foremost now.' 'Good point, I'll send it off to her later.'

In the arena

The show opened with a video from the Board of Directors. 'Hello, my name is David G. Atherton, I am the Vice-Chairman of the WDC and the chair of the Board of Directors. Now you may have heard about qualifiers at this show leading to a five person duel at Against All Odds. You may be wondering where this has come from, but the name of the game is simple: Against All Odds. The champion must face the most extreme odds possible in order to prove their worthiness. And in some cases, this needs to be proven.'

'Because let us make it clear to anybody who does not yet understand: as the Board of Directors, we know everything which goes on in this company. We know all of the legal loopholes, and we are more than happy to force any champion to defend in whatever situation we see fit. If you want to carry our belt around, and then threaten to abandon us immediately, you have to earn that right, regardless of who you are or who your Uncle is' he said in a snide tone, before the video was cut off by Astrid's music.

She walked out, wearing a light blue bunad, and was accompanied by Maddy, dressed in her fedora and long trench coat, and Kris, who had a brown leather coat paired with a red right hand shirt and black jeans. All the while, the crowd were chanting "Welcome home" and "Alt for Norge". After waiting for the crowd to quieten down, Maddy picked up a microphone, and stated 'Since nobody here can be bothered to introduce us, we've brought our own announcer.' DJ then walked out, and introduced them all.

'Standing in the duelling zone: from Salem, Massachusetts, he is the One and Only - Kris Travis. Also, from Stoneybridge, Northumbria, England, for 199 days, she has been the reigning and defending WDC Young-Gun Champion: Don Alpha - Maddy Smith. And finally, from Alta, right here in Norway *rapturous cheers*, for 11 days she has been your reigning and defending WDC Champion - the Arctic Fox, Astrid Hofferson.' With this, Astrid took Maddy's microphone, to address the situation.

'If you wanted to stack the deck, you could have just told me, and I would have embraced the challenge. But instead, you sent me on a community outreach mission just so you could announce this behind my back. I had to get told by a 10 year old while on a ferry in the North Sea. I have done nothing but bust my backside and wait patiently for my chance, and now that I've earned this title, you want to try and take it off me immediately. And for what crime? Being successful? Not being the person you wanted to win? Or is it because Maddy annoyed you by refusing to be some dumb poster in Trafalgar Square? And because of that, you have to punish all of us.'

'Well guess what - I stand by her. Because throughout all of this, she's stood by me. He's stood by me. The Renegades all stood by me. So you're going to play by my rules now. I'm not giving you the publicity you crave, I'm not going to entertain your bullcrap, and if you won't give me the respect I deserve and demand, then I'm going to take my services elsewhere - whether I have this belt or not. Because you're going to have to beat me for it.'

Astrid then started to well up with tears in her eyes, and her voice became deeper, as she started shaking. 'And if you're not going to put me in a duel in my home country, in front of people who look up to me as a role model, who listen to me teach their children to stand up for what they believe in, then I'm going to have to pick my own fight, and once I'm done, I'll start on all of you, and show you what respect'

Before she could finish, the crowd gasped, as Rio and Blair walked out. Immediately Blair and Astrid squared up, and everyone erupted, as Astrid passed her microphone over to her eternal rival. 'It's funny you were just talking about picking your own fight, because we've both looked at the card, and it's weird, because we can't find our names anywhere. It's almost like they forgot to put the tag titles on here as well. We didn't travel over here to sit around and enjoy nice catering, oh and on that subject, I'm absolutely trying Lapskaus when we get home.' Rio then replied with her own microphone. 'You mean I'll do it because you can barely cook Beans on Toast? Then again, at least you've stopped setting fire to the chopping board…' This earned a 'Blair can't cook' chant from the fans, cracking the Michigan girl up.

Astrid wasn't messing around though. 'Could the stand-up have not waited for later?' 'Yea, sorry I was just getting to my point. If you're looking to pick a fight Astrid, I'm just saying… we're right here.' Before Blair could say anything else though, Kris had an idea. 'If you don't mind me getting between you for a moment, I've got a proposal. The main event, let's have a Champion's Showcase - the WDC Tag-Team Champions, Rio Kastle and Blair Flannigan, vs. the WDC Champion Astrid Hofferson… and the WDC Young-Gun Champion Maddy Smith!' Maddy looked around in surprise at this, expecting Kris to nominate himself for the duel. But instead of saying anything, the two teams consented with the raising of the right hand, before lifting their respective titles up, ending this part of the show.

Backstage, Astrid was returning when she was approached by Marko, Zak, and Kenzie. Immediately, Zak offered her his hand. 'We just wanted to thank you, what you said out there was inspirational. Maybe if we're not getting the opportunities, we should also pick our own fights.' Suddenly, Kenzie stepped forward. 'I'm picking a fight - I want to challenge for the WDC Championship at the Saltire Duelling Federation event in Aberdeen next Sunday.' Ever the fighting champion, Astrid responded with 'I'll see you there.'

In the Duelling Zone

Claude walked out first for the first qualifier, but was on his own rather than having his Regiment with him. 'The following is the opening Against All Odds qualifier. Introducing first, from Zealand, Denmark, Lt. Claude Duane.' "This is the first of four qualifiers we have tonight. Claude Duane has held the WDC Championship before, and while he came up short against Astrid last time out in Le Mans, his performance was impressive enough for him to be granted another opportunity. His Age of Evolution deck will aim to take him to the next level by destroying the weak monsters he has in order to age them into fierce Jurassic-era titans. Claude has tasted gold before, but hasn't held any since losing the WDC Championship in Lithuania back in September."

While Claude waited, Johnny emerged to his music, wearing a new gladiator outfit complete with a saltire on the back of his gleaming armour. 'Introducing his opponent, from Glasgow, Scotland, he is the Glasgow Gladiator - Johnny McGregor.' "Johnny McGregor is a fairly recent addition to the WDC, having previously been full-time with the rival LFD organisation. The former LFD Atlas Champion hasn't been seen since the Anniversary Show, when he got wrecked by the vicious Don Alpha Maddy, and we hear he isn't yet at full health after that. His Gladiator's Assault deck deals in hand-to-hand combat, and coming out alive gives the ability to invite another fighter to the Colosseum. He faced Claude way back in Glasgow before the mid-season break, but that ended early due to Renegade chicanery. However all the Renegades have been banned from the duelling zone for the entirety of the qualifiers."

Against All Odds Qualifier #1: Lt. Claude Duane LP:8000 vs. Johnny McGregor LP:8000

(Johnny hand: Gladiator Beast War Chariot, Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield, Gladiator Beast Darius, Test Ape, Colosseum - Cage of the Gladiator Beasts)

Johnny: 'I'll start by setting a monster and activating Colosseum - Cage of the Gladiator Beasts, then ending my turn.'

(Claude hand: Souleating Oviraptor, Babycerasaurus, Thunder Crash, Fossil Dig, Super Conductor Tyranno, Fossil Dig)

Claude: 'I draw, and summon Souleating Oviraptor (Atk:1800). When I summon it, it grabs a Petiteranodon. Oviraptor, attack his monster.' The blue-flamed Oviraptor dashed in, and grabbed Johnny's monster (Test Ape Def.:300), before returning to Claude's field to eat it. 'When Test Ape goes to the great beyond, I can summon a Level 4 or below Glad from my deck. Meet Laquari (Atk:1800). And summoning a monster from the deck gives my Colosseum its first Counter (Counters:0-1, Laquari Atk:1800-1900).' 'That's fine, after our battle ends I'll activate Fossil Dig, getting Miscellaneousaurus, and ending my turn.'

(Johnny hand: Gladiator Beast War Chariot, Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield, Gladiator Beast Darius, Gladiator Beast's Respite)

Johnny: 'I draw. I'll be summoning Gladiator Beast Darius (Atk:1700-1800), and equipping Laquari with Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield. Now if it would be destroyed, this is destroyed instead. Laquari, crash into Oviraptor.' Laquari led with its bone-adorned shield, smashing into the head of Oviraptor (Claude LP:8000-7900). 'Now Darius can attack you directly.' The equine Darius smashed Claude with a hard whip, dropping his total (Claude LP:7900-6100). 'After the Battle phase ends, both my Gladiators tag out back to the deck, replacing themselves. I'll summon Vespasius and Augustus (Atk:2300-2600, 2600-2900, Colosseum Counters:1-3). 'Because Vespasius was summoned from the deck, my entire field is buffed by 500 Attack laddy (Atk:3100, 3400). And because the monster equipped with Battle Archfiend Shield went back to my deck, Shield returns to my hand. I end my turn setting two.'

(Claude hand: Babycerasaurus, Thunder Crash, Fossil Dig, Super Conductor Tyranno, Petiteranodon, Miscellaneousaurus, Twin Twisters)

Claude: 'I'll draw and activate my Twin Twisters.' Johnny's reaction spoke volumes, as he stood with his hands on his head. 'I'll discard Super Conductor to destroy both your Traps.' Claude's prediction was close to on point, as his card ripped through one Trap (War Chariot), as well as Respite. 'Nice trick. I'll then send Miscellaneousaurus from my hand to the graveyard, to give all my Dinos immunity to your card effects this turn. Now I'll summon Petiteranodon (Atk:500). But he's not staying, because I activate Thunder Crash.' The revelation of Claude's strategy left his opponent shocked. 'No way are you running that card' 'Does it look like I'm running it? Thunder Crash destroys all my monsters, and you lose 300 Life for each one.'

A fierce blast of thunder came from the roof of the arena, which blasted Petiteranodon to pieces, and dealt minor damage (Johnny LP:8000-7700). 'And now Petiteranodon is destroyed, I can summon Transcendosaurus Meteorus from my deck (Atk:3500, Colosseum Counters:3-4, Vespasius Atk:3100-3200, Augustus Atk:3400-3500). When Meteorus is summoned, it sends another Dino to my graveyard. So I'll dump Giant Rex, and then use the effect of Miscellaneousaurus in my graveyard, banishing four for Souleating Oviraptor (Atk:1800).' Knowing there were two simultaneous effects to resolve, Johnny hurried the duel up, despite very apparently hurting, especially his left leg. 'No response to any of yer things.'

'In that case I'll summon Giant Rex through its effect (Atk:2000-2600), and Oviraptor will add Ultimate Conductor Tyranno to my hand. Now I'll overlay Giant Rex and Oviraptor to Xyz summon Evolzar Dolkka (Def.:1700). Meteorus, attack Vespasius.' Meteorus unleashed a steaming pile of lava from its mouth, which melted the Gladiator and destroyed it (Johnny LP:7700-7400, Augustus Atk:3500-3200). 'I end my turn.'

(Johnny hand: Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield, Gladiator Beast Lanista)

Johnny: 'I draw.' As he did, he saw the card and looked to the sky. 'You gotta be fuckin' with me, the one card that could take this one. I'll summon Gladiator Beast Lanista (Atk:1800).' Far from annoyed, Claude was still brimming with confidence. 'Come and get me.' 'I think I might just do that laddy. Attack his Dolkka.' Lanista surged in, and pierced straight through Dolkka's hide with its spear, destroying it. 'And now Lanista can tag out, to summon Gladiator Beast Saggittari (Def.:1000, Colosseum Counters:4-5). When Saggittari is summoned by a Glad, I can draw two cards, then discard one. I'll get rid of Battle Archfiend Shield, and end my turn setting three.'

(Claude hand: Babycerasaurus, Fossil Dig, Ultimate Conductor Tyranno, Rank-up Magic Astral Force)

Claude: 'I draw. I'm going to banish Giant Rex and Souleating Oviraptor to summon Ultimate Conductor Tyranno (Atk:3500). Then I can bring back Giant Rex (Atk:3000). I'm going to take a chance and say that one of your face-downs is something that stops monster effects, so I'm going to go straight to battle, and attack with Ultimate Conductor.' 'At the Battle phase's start I activate Gladiator Beast United. This fuses my Vespasius, Lanista and Augustus to summon my ace, Gladiator Beast Domitanus (Atk:3500-4000).' This stopped Claude in his tracks, as he tried to work out how to defeat the 4k Attack Domitanus.

'So your Domitanus, monster negate, right?' 'Someone's been doing their research.' 'More like anything else is an auto-lose. I'll just end my Battle phase, and activate Fossil Dig, to get Soul…' It was this moment when Claude had a different idea. 'I'll add Dinowrestler Coelsilat. Then I'll summon it (Atk:100), and tune Level 2 Coelsilat to Level 10 Ultimate Conductor Tyranno, to summon the freezing ferocity of Transcendosaurus Glaciasaurus (Atk:3600). I end my turn.'

(Johnny hand: Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield, Gladiator Beast's Battle Manica)

Johnny: 'I draw. I'll use Domitanus to take care of your Glaciasaurus. Hope the 100 more Life points were worth it.' 'The points aren't, but the fact it's indestructible in battle might (Claude LP:6100-5700). 'I end my turn.'

(Claude hand: Babycerasaurus, Rank-up Magic Astral Force, Animadorned Archosaur)

Claude: 'I'll draw, then I'll pass.'

(Johnny hand: Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield, Gladiator Beast's Battle Manica, Gladiator Beast Alexander)

Johnny: 'I draw. I'll attack again.' The continued attacks were racking up minor damage, but still not causing Claude huge issues (Claude LP:5700-5300). 'I end my turn.'

(Claude hand: Babycerasaurus, Rank-up Magic Astral Force, Final Fusion)

Claude: 'I draw. I'll just pass again - do your worst.'

(Johnny hand: Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield, Gladiator Beast's Battle Manica, Gladiator Beast Alexander, Gladiator Beast United)

Johnny: 'I'm drawing, and attacking with Domitanus again.' Another 400 Life points were dealt (Claude LP:5300-4900), but Johnny was so tunnelled in that he hadn't seriously considered pushing harder. 'I'll end my turn.'

(Claude hand: Babycerasaurus, Rank-up Magic Astral Force, Final Fusion, Xyz Reborn)

Claude: 'I'll draw and end my turn with a face-down.' 'Why you not switching your wee Dino to Defence?' 'What - and let you get your Gladiator effects off? No thanks, I'll let you poke me.' 'You're a cocky one you.' 'Cocky or confident? You decide.' By now the crowd were electric, backing Johnny over the brash Dane.

(Johnny hand: Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield, Gladiator Beast's Battle Manica, Gladiator Beast Alexander, Gladiator Beast United, Test Tiger)

Johnny: 'I draw. I'll just attack again.' A calculated performance saw Johnny remove more of Claude's points, albeit he was still holding back (Claude LP:4900-4500). 'I end my turn.'

(Claude hand: Babycerasaurus, Rank-up Magic Astral Force, Final Fusion, Twin Twisters)

Claude: 'I draw.' As he looked at the draw, he just shrugged. 'Not what I was after, but it does the job. I set one card face-down and activate Twin Twisters, discarding Babycerasaurus to destroy your Colosseum and my own Final Fusion.' The vicious whirlwinds ripped across the field, causing the Colosseum to collapse under its own weight (Domitanus Atk:4000-3500). 'Then I'll activate Xyz Reborn, to revive Dolkka (Atk:2300, Materials:1). And then I can combo that with Rank-up Magic Astral Force. It ranks up my Dolkka by two ranks, so I can Xyz summon the mighty Evolzar Solda (Atk:2600).'

'Glaciasaurus, destroy Domitanus.' A freezing blast of ice was unleashed by the Level 12 Dinosaur, which encased the Gladiator in ice, before a tail slap shattered it into crystals (Johnny LP:7400-7300). 'And that leaves you open for Solda to warm things up.' Solda rose into the sky and from its mouth came a quite incredible blast of fire, trimming Johnny's nominal advantage (Johnny LP:7300-4700). 'I'll end my turn there.'

(Johnny hand: Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield, Gladiator Beast's Battle Manica, Gladiator Beast Alexander, Gladiator Beast United, Test Tiger, Gladiator Beast Darius)

Johnny: 'I draw. I'll summon Gladiator Beast Darius (Atk:1700). Then because I control a Gladiator Beast, I can summon Test Tiger (Def.:300). Getting rid?' 'No, you're fine to go on.' Johnny was frustrated at this, knowing that his bait hadn't worked out. 'I'll use Test Tiger's effect to tribute itself and shuffle Darius back into the deck for Murmillo (Atk:800).' 'I'll detach a material from Solda to negate your summon.' With Murmillo eliminated, there was only one more move for Johnny.

'I'll enter Battle, and then use United, to fuse Alexander and Domitanus to Fusion summon Gladiator Beast Tamer Editor (Atk:2400).' 'Solda.' 'Not once a turn?' 'Nope.' Knowing his race was run, he tried one last trick. 'I'll set two and end my turn.'

(Claude hand: Tail Swipe)

Claude: 'Nice try, but I know one of them is Archfiend Shield. Attack.' Both his monsters came in with their respective final blows, concluding a thrilling first contest (Johnny LP:4700-0).

As the duel concluded, Claude roared in pleasure, as he appeared on the Crimson-red graphic alongside Astrid, their names on poker chips and dice rolling behind them. He stopped briefly, nodding at his opponent out of mutual respect for their skills, which a clearly hurting Johnny responded to with a wink through gritted teeth. Claude then left, allowing Johnny to take a bit of time to catch his breath, before eventually limping away.

The cameras were supposed to be cutting to a title announcement for Maddy, but instead, they suddenly cut to her having a tense discussion with Geoff Maltby backstage. 'I don't care about the consequences, I'm not betraying her.' 'Don't put your friendship before your ambitions, because these opportunities don't come for people like you, and people like me very often. They don't get handed out to us, we need to grasp them with both hands.' 'Well maybe that title ain't my ambition right now. When I won this title, what did I tell you that evening? I told you that I wanted to make this division better, make this a real title rather than just a random curtain jerker. My job isn't done yet, until somebody can take this title off me, my job isn't done because this division ain't good enough to stand on its own. Give Chazz a walkover, see if I fuckin' care.'

'And if it were to suddenly become a title duel?' 'Nice try, but I know for a fact that you're not legally allowed to do that, because you need to give me 48 hours' notice thanks to that nice little contract you had me sign a few months back. That is, unless I accept the challenge, which given the circumstances, I don't. Now if you don't mind, I've got a main event to prepare for, which unlike you, actually deserves my attention.' She walked away, but not before her flowing hair whipped the Lancastrian in the face. After she left, he just shook his head. 'This kid's becoming a serious issue.'

In the duelling zone, Chazz entered, aware that his opponent wasn't turning up. So he took his time gloating as he walked down. 'So she chickened out of facing me eh? I can't blame her, the level of embarrassment would be monumental. I don't know why kids like her are allowed to run around here pretending to be big deals anyway.' He then looked up at the official. 'Oi ref, count her out will ya?' Before any count could start though, Everyday Superhero hit, and Jaden walked out to a great reaction, immediately getting Chazz's heckles up. 'Oh, it's you…' 'Maddy might not be willing to betray Astrid, but I'll happily take a 7th WDC Championship.' Surprisingly, Chazz appeared to be up for the challenge. 'Come and beat me then.'

Against All Odds qualifier 2: Chazz Princeton LP:8000 vs. Jaden Yuki LP:8000

(Chazz hand: Stamping Destruction, Armed Dragon Thunder LV7, Armed Dragon Flash, Pile Armed Dragon, Draconnection)

Chazz: 'I'll kick this off slacker. I activate Armed Dragon Flash, to summon Armed Dragon Thunder LV3 from my deck (Atk:1300). And his effect makes him grow up real quick, sending Thunder LV7 from my hand to the graveyard and summoning Armed Dragon Thunder LV5 (Atk:2400). And Thunder LV7's effect adds an Armed Dragon card to my hand, like Blitz. Which is exactly what you're going to be after I activate it, to summon Armed Dragon LV7 from my deck (Atk:2800). I end my turn.'

(Jaden hand: Evil Hero Infernal Prodigy, Evil Mind, Dark Fusion, Elemental HERO Neos, Evil Hero Malicious Edge, Miracle Contact)

Jaden: 'I draw. I'll summon a card you probably remember - Evil Hero Infernal Prodigy (Atk:300).' 'Special if only I control a monster, yeah, I know. You got Malicious Edge?' 'You're good, almost like we've faced each other before (Atk:2600). Now I'll activate Dark Fusion.' 'Of course you have it' he murmured. 'This combines Malicious Edge with Elemental HERO Neos to Fusion summon Evil Hero Malicious Bane (Atk:3000).' 'That's that new one that you boasted about and then ran away before I ever got the chance to beat it.' 'I didn't run away, I came back here. Because I wanted to test myself against the best. And the best were here.'

'And you're about to witness the skills that were honed here. Malicious Bane's effect destroys all monsters on your field, and it gains 200 Attack for each one.' 'I know that's not how the effect works, but same difference.' 'Are all your monsters below 3k? Then that's how it works. Vicious Rend.' Malicious Bane scorched the field with a sharp stream of dark fire cutting across it, destroying Chazz's field (Atk:3000-3400). 'Now Malicious Bane, attack directly.' Bane attacked again, this time lunging with its claws curled in (Chazz LP:8000-4600). Having been pushed to the ground, Chazz jumped up, and brushed himself off. 'Call that an attack?' he snarked confidently, making Jaden smile. 'Too many times people just up and quit after an attack. I end my turn, and Infernal Gainer's effect draws me a card because I tribute summoned a HERO with it this turn.'

(Chazz hand: Stamping Destruction, Pile Armed Dragon, Draconnection, Pile Armed Dragon)

Chazz: 'I draw. I activate Draconnection, to add Armed Dragon Thunder LV7 to my hand and shuffle Pile Armed Dragon into the deck. Then I'll discard Thunder LV7 to summon another Pile Armed Dragon (Atk:2800).' 'So that's why you shuffled it back - you had two of them.' 'Now I'll use the effect of Thunder LV7 to add Armed Dragon Flash to my hand. Now Pile Armed can send an Armed Dragon from my deck to the grave, and gets 300 Attack for every Level it has. I'm sending Armed Dragon Thunder LV5 (Atk:2800-4300).'

'Then LV5 adds Armed Dragon LV5 to my hand. Now Pile Armed, attack Malicious Bane with Armed Driller!' Pile Armed spun the drills on its hands up, before ploughing them straight through Malicious Bane's rock-hard skin, brutally ripping it apart from the inside out (Jaden LP:8000-6700). 'How's that for power, slacker? I'll end my turn (Atk:2800).'

(Jaden hand: Evil Mind, Miracle Contact, Super Polymerisation, O - Oversoul)

Jaden: 'I draw. I activate O - Oversoul, to revive an Elemental Hero Normal monster from my graveyard, like Neos (Atk:2500). Now it's going to combine its powers with your monster - I discard Miracle Contact to activate Super Polymerisation!' Chazz gritted his teeth at the sight, but didn't say anything. 'This fuses together your Pile Armed Dragon and my Elemental Hero Neos to Fusion summon my newest friend - Armed Neos (Atk:3500). Armed Neos, attack directly!' Jaden's latest Fusion monster slammed Chazz with spiked wings, dropping his points and him to a knee briefly (Chazz LP:4600-1100). 'I end my turn.'

(Chazz hand: Stamping Destruction, Armed Dragon Flash, Armed Dragon LV5, Armed Dragon LV10 White)

Chazz: 'I draw. I'll banish Armed Dragon Thunder LV7 and Armed Dragon Thunder LV3 from my graveyard to summon Armed Dragon LV10 White (Atk:3000). Then I can add White Veil to my hand. Now LV10 White, attack with Armed Luminizer Blast!' As White attacked, it glowed blindingly. 'The effect of my monster destroys your Armed Neos when its Attack is declared. With that gone, I can attack directly!' A blinding ball of white lightning blasted Jaden, shocking him onto his back (Jaden LP:6400-3400). 'I end my turn.'

(Jaden hand: Evil Mind, Dandylion)

Jaden: 'I draw. I'll activate Evil Mind, and use its first effect to draw a card because you have at least 1 monster in the graveyard. I'll set it and set a monster, ending my turn.'

(Chazz hand: Stamping Destruction, Armed Dragon Flash, Armed Dragon LV5, White Veil, Fairy Meteor Crush)

Chazz: 'I draw. I'll activate Stamping Destruction, to destroy your face-down and deal 500 damage.' The fierce stamping of the Dragon destroyed Dimensional Prison, and dealt minor damage (Jaden LP:3400-2900). Then I'll activate Armed Dragon Flash, to summon Armed Dragon Thunder LV3 from my deck (Atk:1200). Now I'll use its effect, sending it and Armed Dragon LV5 to the grave and summoning Armed Dragon, the Armored Dragon (Atk:1900). Finally, I equip Fairy Meteor Crush to my LV10 White. Now attack!'

LV10 White came in with a blinding blast of electricity, wiping Dandylion out (Def.:300, Jaden LP:2900-200). 'I'll survive, because Dandylion summons two Fluff Tokens when it goes to the graveyard (Def.:0x2).' 'You're not escaping this one. Armored Dragon destroys the Fluff Token.' Armored Dragon crackled with electricity, before crashing into the small strand of fluff, blowing it away. 'And to finish you off, when Armored Dragon wins a battle, it summons Lancer Lindwurm from my deck (Atk:1800). Get ready for 1800 piercing damage scum!' Chazz's posturing was for a good reason, as the Lindwurm stabbed through Jaden's last token, and the last of his Life points (Jaden LP:200-0).

As the duel finished, Chazz laughed as his music played, and he walked backwards, holding his arms out and grinning as he did. Meanwhile Jaden stayed on, and spent a long time looking at his deck, before waving to the crowd as he left. As he walked through the entrance gate, he encountered Blair (who had been talking to Phil about the main event), and as she walked over, solemnly handed Dandylion over to her. Understanding what this signified, she nodded, and gave him a hug, a slight tear in her eye.

At the arena entrance, Maddy was returning from a quick fresh-air break when she was confronted by Maltby again. 'What is it now?' 'I thought you'd like to know that the board have arranged an extra title defence for you in Aberdeen.' As her opponent walked over, she laughed. 'So you had to literally break the rules just to find someone you think can beat me?' 'The rules aren't being broken, because Crow has just returned.' 'You're really reaching here.' 'Not me, it's' 'Let me guess, the shadowy board who I don't get to talk to.' 'They are always available if you want to book a meeting.' Starting to lose her cool, a wide-eyed Maddy slapped Geoff down, before grabbing him in a headlock, and forcing him to look at her phone.

'This is the board's email address, right? RIGHT?!' He just nodded, with her grip being too tight to let him speak. 'And these are the fourteen, ONE FOUR FOURTEEN emails I've sent them asking for a meeting, and not once have they ever responded. And you know why? Because I'm not the pretty little billboard they wanted. They want the girl next door, meek as fuck, never says a word, and instead they got a young woman with dyed red hair, a touch of black lipstick, and an attitude that says "the next time you screw one of us over, you're going through the nearest window." She then whispered down his ear 'And guess what - you just screwed me over by making me rearrange my College exam.' She then fulfilled her promise, by throwing the Wiganer head-first into a window, before painting a red right hand on his back in watercolour.

In the duelling zone

The next contest began with Freja walking out to her new music, her lycra gear now purple scales with pink streaks running through the cracks, and her low ponytail fixed in place alongside her gaze. 'The following duel is under standard rules. Introducing first, representing the Dynasty and accompanied by Belle Draper and Phil Robinson, from Renegades HQ, North Shields, England, Ms. Hellfire - Freja McKinna.' As she posed threateningly on the stage with a spiked mace, the analysis focused on her other job.

"Freja McKinna is someone who has recently been given a new lease of life. This talented 25 year old was an underrated but difficult to assess threat when she played games with luck, but now she's following the path of her manager closely. Her Drytron Constellation deck restricts the opponent's movements and gains advantage constantly, leaving the foe helpless. Freja's no stranger to performing for the cameras either - outside of duelling she is a professional catalogue model, and let me tell you, she's got quite the portfolio.'

While Freja waved her mace around in the zone, the harmonica played its tune, and Kalin appeared, looking more edgy and frustrated than previous appearances, and the front of his hair was almost over his face. Even his jacket wasn't straight, looking ragged and worn. "Kalin Kessler is a former WDC Champion, but he appears to have hit a rough patch of late, losing his last three duels. His Infernity Inferno deck pulls off handless combos to create fierce destruction, and he has all the experience in the world to make it sing, as he looks to re-establish dominance."

Kalin Kessler LP:8000 vs. Freja McKinna LP:8000

(Freja hand: Drytron Delta Altais, Cyber Summon Blaster, Cyber Angel Benten, Graceful Charity, Makayura the Destructor)

Freja: 'I'll start by activating Graceful Charity, to draw three cards and then discard two. One of the cards I discarded was Makayura the Destructor, which means I can activate Cyber Summon Blaster from my hand. Now I'll activate Drytron Delta Altais in my hand, tributing Drytron Gamma Eltanin to summon itself (Def.:0). Now the effect of Summon Blaster will zap you for 300 Life points, and with the effect of Delta, I can reveal Cyber Angel Benten from my hand to draw another card.' As it was declared, the tracked Blaster fired a ball of plasma straight at Kalin (Kalin LP:8000-7700).

'Now I'll use Gamma Eltanin in my graveyard, tributing Delta to summon itself (Def.:0, Kalin LP:7700-7400). When I summon Gamma, it summons back Delta (Atk:2000, Kalin LP:7400-7100). Now I'll overlay them both and Xyz summon the launcher of doom - Drytron Mu Beta Fafnir (Atk:2000, Kalin LP:7100-6800). When Fafnir arrives, it sends Drytron Zeta Aldihibah to the graveyard. Which I can summon by tributing the Cyber Angel Benten in my hand (Def.:2000, Kalin LP:6800-6500). And because I tributed Benten, I can add Herald of Ultimateness to my hand. Then I can use the effect of Zeta to get Meteonis Drytron.'

'I'll activate Meteonis, and this is a unique Ritual spell which tributes materials based on Attack rather than Level. And the effect of Drytron Mu Beta Fafnir allows me to tribute one of its materials for the summon. So I'll tribute Gamma Eltanin to summon Herald of Ultimateness (Def.:3000). I'll end my turn.'

(Kalin hand: Infernity Beetle, Tour Guide from the Underworld, Trap Trick, Infernity Wildcat, Dark Mirror Force, Kagemucha Knight)

Kalin: 'I see he's got his claws into you then. Scraping away at any identity you had, moulding you into another mindless warrior.' 'Laugh all you like, because I trust him to do what's best for me. So take your turn, I've got another duel yet.' 'I'd worry about anything being left after this duel first. I summon Tour Guide from the Underworld (Atk:1000). And the effect of Tour Guide allows me to summon Infernity Wildcat from my deck. Then I'll chain block with Kagemucha Knight, which summons itself if I summon a Level 3 monster.' 'Sure, go ahead.' 'Not negating?' 'Do I have to spell it out? Not negating (Wildcat Atk:1400, Kagemucha Knight Def.:0).'

'Then I'll overlay my Wildcat and Kagemucha Knight to Xyz summon Number 17: Leviathan Dragon (Atk:2000).' 'I'll activate Herald of Ultimateness, sending Eva to the graveyard to negate the summon and destroy your Dragon.' As the unbelievable light from Ultimateness caused Leviathan Dragon to fade away, Kalin appeared to be getting incredibly unhinged already. 'You… dare to defy me? HOW DARE YOU think you're even close to me! I'm the top guy around, and you are some no-name BITCH!' Freja might have been offended by this; if only she had actually been listening. Instead, she had been resolving the effect of Eva to banish Benten and add Herald of Green Light to her hand.

As she finished doing so, Kalin got even angrier, realising he wasn't even being listened to. 'This is bullshit! To think I paid that monkey Bolton 100,000 bucks to get me into that title tournament, and now he leaves me like this?!' He then took a breath and carried on. 'I'll summon Infernity Wildcat from my hand by discarding Beetle (Atk:1400), and tune Level 3 Wildcat to Level 3 Tour Guide, and summon Infernity Doom Archfiend (Atk:2400).' 'I'll discard Herald of Green Light to negate the summon.' 'I end my turn with two face down cards.'

(Freja hand: Pre-Preparation of Rites)

Freja: 'I'll draw, and unlock the deck with Pre-Preparation of Rites. This adds Cyber Angel Benten from my deck to my hand, and Meteonis Drytron from my graveyard to my hand.' 'I'll respond with Trap Trick. By banishing Storming Mirror Force from my deck, I can set another copy of it from my deck to my field.' This forced Freja into a quick re-think, and she decided to win in a war of attrition. 'Not pretty but I'll do it. I'll tribute Mu Beta Fafnir to summon Gamma (Def.:0, Kalin LP:6500-6200). When Gamma is summoned, it revives Mu Beta Fafnir (Atk:2000, Kalin LP:6200-5900). Then I'll tribute Zeta to summon Drytron Delta Altais (Def.:0, Kalin LP:5900-5600).'

'Next step, Delta reveals Benten in my hand to draw a card.' Seeing the card, she nodded firmly. 'I activate Cyber Emergency to add Drytron Alpha Thuban to my hand. Now Alpha tribute Benten (Def.:0, Kalin LP:5600-5300). Alpha adds a Ritual monster to my hand, I'll choose Drytron Meteonis Draconids. Meanwhile, Benten adds Eva to my hand. I'll overlay Gamma and Delta to summon Drytron Mu Beta Fafnir (Atk:2000, Kalin LP:5300-5000). And I'll tribute Alpha to summon Zeta (Def.:0, Kalin LP:5000-4700). Zeta will add Sprite's Blessing to my hand, then I'll activate Meteonis Drytron, to tribute Zeta and the Delta that is a material for Fafnir to Ritual summon Drytron Meteonis Draconids (Def.:4000, Kalin LP:4700-4400). I end my turn.'

(Kalin hand: Infernity Guardian)

Kalin: 'I draw. I'll set a monster and pass my turn.'

(Freja hand: Sprite's Blessing, Drytron Beta Rastaban)

Freja: 'I'll tribute Herald of Ultimateness to revive Delta (Def.:0, Kalin LP:4400-4100). Then Delta reveals Sprite's Blessing to draw another card. Which is Drytron Nova, to summon Beta Rastaban (Def.:0, Kalin LP:4100-3800). Then tribute Beta for Beta (Def.:0, Kalin LP:3800-3500). Zeta, tribute Beta (Def.:0, Kalin LP:3500-3200).' As Kalin continued to be zapped continuously, he asked his dominant opponent 'Why?' 'Pardon?' 'Why are you winning like this? You had lethal 20 minutes ago.' It was then that Freja revealed she had been listening earlier.

'I want to make you suffer. You're everything that we've been fighting against, paying your way to the top, screwing us just because you're too arrogant to accept that you can't hack it, so let this be the lesson that the new generation is here, and it doesn't involve you anymore. Zeta, tribute Beta (Def.:0, Kalin LP:3200-2900). Then Meteonis, take 1000 Attack from Beta to add it back. Alpha, tribute Draconids (Def.:0, Kalin LP:2900-2600). Meteonis, I'll tribute Gamma from Fafnir and Alpha to summon Draconids (Def.:4000, Kalin LP:2600-2300). Gamma, tribute Beta (Def.:0, Kalin LP:2300-2000). Gamma summons back the Beta I just tributed (Atk:2000, Kalin LP:2000-1700). Gamma and Beta overlay to summon Sylvan Princessprite (Atk:1800).'

'Princessprite's effect, detach Gamma to excavate, if it's a Spell/Trap I add it to my hand, otherwise it goes to the graveyard.' As the card was excavated, she kept disciplined. 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

(Kalin hand: Infernity Beetle)

Kalin: 'I draw. I summon Infernity Beetle (Atk:1200). Then I'll flip up Infernity Guardian (Atk:1200). Now Level 2 Beetle tunes to Level 4 Guardian to' 'Don't bother, I'm just activating my set Meteor Shower to negate the summon.' Despondent and apoplectic, Kalin ended his turn.

(Freja hand: Cyber Angel Dakini)

Freja: 'I can't believe I'm actually gonna win one, I'm actually going to…' She then took a breath. 'Calm down and draw. Right, Alpha, tribute Draconids (Def.:0, Kalin LP:1500-1200). I'll add Cyber Angel Natasha. Then I'll Beta tribute Alpha (Def.:0, Kalin LP:1200-900). Delta tribute Beta (Def.:0, Kalin LP:900-600). Gamma, tribute Alpha (Def.:0, Kalin LP:600-300). Gamma effect, summon back Delta (Def.:0, Kalin LP:300-0).'

The duel concluding, Freja let off a scream of delight at what was only her second solo win. However, the attention was being taken off her achievement and Phil and Belle's embracing of her by Kalin, who was throwing a huge tantrum in the duelling zone. He threw his duel disk down hard on the concrete, causing internals to fly out of it, as it tumbled to the floor. By the time it did so, he had already stormed away.

As the victor was walking away, The Sledgehammer suddenly attacked from behind, having come through the crowd to do so. After pushing the others down, he went straight after Freja's injured shoulder, pounding on it with heavy fists. Belle attempted to make the save by grabbing Freja's mace, only for it to be swiped away by him. Freja herself fought back, and as he tried to choke her, she bit his fingers, and kicked him down low, by which time Kris had run out to help out, dishing out a series of explosive punches to him. As Sledgehammer went to respond, he was pulled away by security, while Kris took a microphone. 'The glory is all Freja's today, and at Against All Odds, it will be mine. Me and you big boy, 1-1. Oh, and bring your REAL deck this time, not that stupid Cubic sh*t.' There was no response, but the look in Sledgehammer's eyes made it clear that he accepted.

Backstage, Rio and Blair were waiting around for an interview. As the interviewer arrived, Rio appeared to be in a huff with her. 'You're 10 minutes late. Do you know what we can do with 10 minutes?' 'I'm sorry, I was at the other end of the arena. I wasn't expecting the last duel to be so quick honestly. Perhaps Phil really can turn anyone into a world beater, he's done it with both of you.' Before Rio could react to the slight, Blair politely suggested 'Shall we get on with the interview?'

'Right, our new main event for this show will be a Champion's Showcase, with the WDC Champion Astrid Hofferson and WDC Young-Gun Champion Maddy Smith going against my guests right now, the WDC Tag-Team Champions, the Frozen Diamonds. Rio, it was you and Blair who made the challenge for this duel, could you tell us what was going through your minds when you did so?' Rio shrugged and leant into the microphone. 'Well Astrid said she wanted a duel, she was complaining about competition, so we decided to give her some. It's senseless her coming back to her home country and NOT duelling.'

'Now Blair, we all know about your rivalry with Astrid' 'That's irrelevant' she responded. 'Me and Astrid duelled like a 1000 times. Doesn't matter. What matters is that we want to show everybody that we are the best team around. No matter who we face, we're always the favourites, we're always the team to beat, because me and Rio, we don't stop. And I don't care if you're friends, rivals, or a bit of both Astrid, we will close you down and we will win. Tonight, we become legendary. Because Diamonds are Forever' 'And you won't beat us until Hell freezes Over.' They raised the red right hand as the "interview" ended.

In the duelling zone

The first notes of Layla played, and Phil walked out, wearing sunglasses and carrying a briefcase with him. 'The following duel is the third Against All Odds qualifier. Introducing first, representing the Dynasty, from Taylor Park, Manchester, England, he is the Northern Nightmare - Phil Robinson.' "Phil is our current World Champion, but has been on the fringes of the eye as one third of the Tag-Team Champions alongside his disciples Rio and Blair. Nevertheless, he's always capable, and ever dangerous with his experience. His Cybernetic Technologies deck is practically an ancient relic, but with a sprinkling of new tools still competes just as well as ever, taking advantage of high damage outputs and grinding out results as they are needed. He'll be eager to win this as well - he's held the WDC Championship 5 times, but not since 2011.'

As he waited, sunglasses on and an impassive look on his face, the Style Council's music hit and Sara came out with Caprice. 'Introducing his opponent, representing the Style Council, from Atlanta, Georgia, she is the Style Saviour - Sara Sawyer.' "Sara Sawyer is growing in experience all the time, and this is her first shot at becoming WDC Champion. She's a dependable duellist with a disciplined style, and her Naturia Calls deck reflects this style, aiming to deprive the opposition of various cards and effects, locking them down to make every option impossible. She's not duelled since the bruising 4-way Young-Gun duel at the Anniversary Show though, and has never beaten Phil in three attempts."

In the zone, Sara was attempting psychological warfare, to… poor results. 'Hey, just go home, you're not needed here anymore. This is about the new generation, the generation of Style, so you turn your fat ass around and go back home, you've got a wife and a kid on the way, I'm sure you can keep yourself busy. You just can't cut it anymore, you showed against Declan that you just don't have it anymore. The moment you felt threatened by us, you set your attack dog on me, because you knew you didn't have it in you anymore.' He didn't say anything, but instead activated his duel disk, without taking his sunglasses off. 'Like that is it? Well I'll just have to show you how past it you are.'

Against All Odds qualifier 3: Sara Sawyer LP:8000 vs. Phil Robinson LP:8000

(Sara hand: Naturia Blessing, Naturia Fruitfly, Naturia Bamboo Shoot, Naturia Fruitfly, Ultimate Offering)

Sara: 'I'll start by summoning Naturia Fruitfly (Atk:800), and setting two, passing turn.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Core, Cyber Dragon, Cyber Pharos, Cybernetic Revolution, Limiter Removal, Cyber Scout Dragon)

Phil: 'I draw' 'And I'll activate Ultimate Offering. Now by paying 500 Life points (Sara LP:8000-7500), I can Normal summon whenever I like. And I know just the card - I'll tribute Fruitfly to summon Naturia Bamboo Shoot (Atk:2000).' 'Do what you like, I summon Cyber Dragon (Atk:2100).' 'And I'll activate my other face-down Naturia Blessing, to revive Fruitfly, which takes 600 of your monster's Attack points, 300 for each Naturia on my field (Def.:1500, Cyber Dragon Atk:2100-1500).' Immediately thwarted, Phil shook his head. 'I'll summon Cyber Scout Dragon and end my turn with a face-down.'

(Sara hand: Naturia Fruitfly, Naturia Mole Cricket)

Sara: 'I draw. I summon Naturia Mole Cricket (Atk:0). Then I'll tribute it through its own effect to summon another Naturia from my deck. I summon Naturia Stag Beetle (Atk:2200, Cyber Dragon Atk:1200). And I'll then use my Ultimate Offering to summon another Fruitfly (Sara LP:7500-7000, Atk:800, Cyber Dragon Atk:1200-0, Def.:900-0). Now for the effect of Fruitfly. Because your Cyber Dragon is out of Defense points, I can steal it until the end of the turn.' Knowing he was in trouble, Phil acted quickly. 'I activate my face-down Cybernetic Revolution! This tributes my Cyber Dragon to summon a Fusion monster which requires it as a material, but it's destroyed when my next turn ends. I summon the protector of all my plans - Cyber Eternity Dragon (Def.:4000-1600).'

Immediately, she was up in arms. 'You can't do that because of Bamboo Shoot.' She then looked down, and saw something. 'Why are my monster's effects negated?' 'Cyber Scout Dragon negates continuous effects of any monster which is Level 4 or above. Sadly your Fruitflies are Level 3, so I can't do anything about those.' 'You're really annoying, you know that?' Again, he refused to respond. 'Stop giving me the silent treatment and just admit you've not got it anymore!' Eventually, he remarked 'I hope I get paid by the hour here.' 'Bamboo Shoot, attack.' Weeds shot up from underneath the weakened Eternity Dragon, wrapping around it and causing it to overheat and explode. 'Fruitfly, attack Scout Dragon.' 'When Scout Dragon is targeted for an attack, it automatically retreats to the bottom of my deck. I get a card in exchange though.' 'I still get to attack you though.' Sara's two Fruitflies through rotting berries at him, while Stag Beetle's mandibles glowed as it went for the bite, lowering his total significantly (Phil LP:8000-4200). 'I end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Core, Cyber Pharos, Limiter Removal, Cyber Phoenix, Battle Fader)

Phil: 'I draw. I'll set a monster and pass my turn.'

(Sara hand: Naturia Blessing)

Sara: 'I draw. I'll activate Naturia Blessing to revive Mole Cricket (Atk:0). Then I'll send off Mole Cricket to summon Naturia Stag Beetle (Atk:2200). Fruitfly, attack!' The first Fruitfly flew towards Phil's monster (Cyber Phoenix Def.:0), and pelted it, destroying it. 'When Cyber Phoenix bites the dust, I draw a card.' 'Whatever. Stag Beetle, attack.' 'Battle Fader (Atk:0).' 'You seriously… just drew that.' He then shared a quiet smile to himself. 'If it's any consolation, I didn't just draw it.' 'Fine, I'll pass my turn.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Core, Cyber Pharos, Limiter Removal, Lava Golem, Cyber Dragon)

Phil: 'I draw. I'll tribute both of your Fireflies to summon Lava Golem to your field (Atk:3000).' 'Who cares - you're not summoning Infinity, you're not Fusion summoning, what can you do?' 'I summon Cyber Pharos (Atk:0).' 'And that is…' 'A lighthouse. Technically quite an old lighthouse. And it's about to light up your life, because Pharos' effect allows me to Fusion summon. I'll fuse it with Cyber Dragon Core and Cyber Dragon to Fusion summon the rabid destroyer - Chimeratech Rampage Dragon (Atk:2100). Now with Rampage Dragon's effect, I can send Cyber Dragon Vier and Cyber Dragon Drei to my graveyard, and give my Dragon two more attacks this turn.' 'Sure, do whatever you like.'

'Ok, I'll start by attacking your Bamboo Shoot with my Rampage.' Rampage fired fierce electricity out of its three heads, frying Bamboo Shoot (Sara LP:7000-6900). 'And now that's gone, I can activate Limiter Removal, doubling the Attack of my Rampage Dragon.' This uncharacteristically bold move saw Rampage become the strongest monster on the field (Atk:2100-4200). Now tear those Stag Beetles to shit!' As the crowd marvelled at the different side of their World Champion, the two Stag Beetles were electrified and fried, suddenly turning the tables on the duel (Sara LP:6900-2900). 'I end my turn. During the End phase, Limiter Removal short-circuits Rampage Dragon.'

(Sara hand: Naturia Butterfly)

Sara: 'I draw. I'll summon Naturia Butterfly (Atk:500), and attack with it.' The weak Butterfly flew and released irritating scales, trimming the nominal lead (Phil LP:4200-3700). 'I end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Evolution End Burst)

Phil: 'I draw.' He looked at the card, and then looked back at Sara. 'You had your opportunities, you're going to pay for not taking them. I activate Evolution End Burst. This adds Overload Fusion to my hand. Then I'll activate Overload, fusing together all six monsters in my graveyard to Fusion summon a monster that is going to rip you apart. Say hello to the many heads of your beaten state - Chimeratech Overdragon. It gains 800 Attack for every material it was summoned with (Atk:?-4800). Attack Naturia Butterfly.' 'I'll use the effect of Butterfly, negating your assault by milling the top card of my deck (Ultimate Offering).' 'That's fantastic. Too bad Overdragon can attack monsters five more times. And it's not limited to attacking the same monster once. Student Shockwave.' Overdragon razed Butterfly to the ground, securing Phil the win, no matter how unhappy he was with the duel (Sara LP:2900-0).

As the duel finished, Phil lifted his hand in victory, but didn't waste time in leaving, clearly very unhappy with the duel. As he returned through the entrance gate, Freja and Belle were waiting for him, and he brought them along with him, saying 'They say the performance doesn't matter, but it doesn't stop you being annoyed if you don't compete to your standard. But I got the result and that's the important part.'

He was then confronted by Caleb and Shay, who were due to face Freja and Belle shortly after. 'Well look who it is, we've got a slut, we've got a murderer, and we've got their old man. Look, you've got a baby on the way, you've got a wife who's missing you at home, you ever just considered leaving these two to their own devices and… you know, going back to being a father? Because I hear Hannah's been spending time with the milkman.' Caleb laughed, attempting to enfeeble the manager. Phil responded by chuckling for a moment, before getting in Caleb's face.

'Keep Hannah's name out of your filthy rotten little mouth. I am here because when that baby arrives, I'm going to be somewhere MUCH better. But right now, I am doing my job, and my job is to make sure that my clients get the respect and success that they desire.' 'Note how you said "desire" and not "deserve".' 'It isn't for me to decide what they "deserve". It's for me to determine what they want and then to deliver it for them.' 'Well I'm afraid, Mr. Robinson, you're going to fail at your job. Because we are going to deliver unholy destruction to your little clientele, and then we're going to come after you and the rest of your stinkin' company. It will become our house of worship.' The two teams stared at each other, before Phil guided Freja and Belle away, while Shay shouted 'Cowards!' at them.

As all this was going on, Celina defeated Kieran in a tight battle to take the final place in the Against All Odds main event. Afterwards though, she had another title on her mind. 'I won a contender's duel for the Young-Gun Championship literally months ago, and I never got given my shot from… what's her name, Mandy? Minnie? Looks a bit like a laddie? Has confusion over her daddy? Regardless of what her name is or what she thinks it is, fact is, I want my title shot, and I want it in Aberdeen. No bird boy is going to get in the way of what I want.' Before she could say anything else though, Declan walked out, and shared some quiet words with Celina. On the conclusion of which, she reluctantly left with him, leaving the crowd extremely confused.

Before the double main event, a video package was shown which confirmed Blair vs. Akiza, Kris vs. Caprice and Jade vs. Hassleberry for Against All Odds. Another package then played to hype the main event of AAO, which ended with a recording of Astrid talking to Declan about "getting the belt over to the Leo Federation", which attracted a smattering of boos from the crowd in attendance, albeit unclear whether they were aimed at Astrid or at the package itself.

For the tag title duel, Belle and Freja were out first, now using Freja's music. 'The following duel is for the LFD Tag-Team Championships. Introducing first, accompanied by their manager Phil Robinson, they are the challengers, Belle Draper and Freja McKinna - the Dynasty.' The two of them emerged with Belle wearing a shirt with the same design as Freja's lycra. Before they could reach the zone though, the piano intro to their opponents' music started.

And shortly after, red smoke filled the arena as they walked out together, Caleb sporting vampire-like fangs as they did. 'Introducing their opponents, representing the Leo Federation, they are your reigning and defending LFD Tag-Team Champions, Shay Obsidian and Caleb Murphy, the New Church!' As they walked through the smoke, Caleb continued laughing, carrying the belts that his team treasured so dearly, while his achingly cool rebel friend swept through with his long dust coat. In the zone, the two teams squared up to each other, with Caleb focusing on Freja in particular, calling her all sorts of unrepeatable names, which did seem to somewhat unnerve her as they began.

LFD Tag-Team Championships: Dynasty (Belle Draper and Freja McKinna) LP:8000 vs. [c] New Church (Caleb Murphy and Shay Obsidian) LP:8000

(Freja hand: Drytron Delta Altais, Meteonis Drytron, Solemn Warning, Cyber Angel Idaten, Ritual Weapon, Cyber Angel Natasha))

Freja: 'I'll start by activating Meteonis Drytron.' Caleb immediately laughed hysterically, throwing his opponent off slightly. 'Sorry little girl, didn't you like my reaction? I must offer my condolences.' 'Yeah… whatever. I'll use Meteonis to tribute Cyber Angel Idaten and summon Cyber Angel Natasha (Atk:1000). And the effect of Idaten will give Natasha 1000 more Attack (Atk:1000-2000). Then Natasha's effect allows me to target anything on my field, and regain half its Life points as… I mean Attack points as Life points (Dynasty LP:8000-9000). I end my turn with a face-down.' As she did and Caleb laughed, his plan working, Belle just looked over at Freja, who was sweating profusely. 'Calm it.' 'I can't do this' she replied in hush tones. Hearing this, Phil walked over, and just patted her on the back, before smiling as she turned around.

(Shay hand: Raidraptor - Singing Lanius, Raidraptor - Call, Raidraptor - Strangle Lanius, Raidraptor - Fuzzy Lanius, Rank-up Magic Skip Force, Raidraptor - Tribute Lanius)

Shay: 'I'll draw. I summon Raidraptor - Singing Lanius (Atk:100). Then because I control a Dark monster, I can summon Raidraptor - Tribute Lanius (Atk:1800). And I can also summon Raidraptor - Strangle Lanius under the same conditions (Atk:1600). Then as I control another Raidraptor' 'You actually control about 40 of the things.' 'I can summon Fuzzy Lanius (Atk:500). Now I'll overlay Fuzzy and Singing to build the overlay network, Xyz summoning Raidraptor - Force Strix (Def.:2000).'

'Ok can you maybe stop summoning monsters now?' Belle quipped. 'Not a chance, I'm just getting started. Force Strix can detach a material to add Raidraptor - Singing Lanius to my hand. Then because I control an Xyz monster, I can Special summon Singing Lanius (Atk:100). Now the effect of Strangle Lanius activates because I have a Dark Xyz monster, and summons back the Fuzzy I just detached, negating its effects (Atk:500). Now I'll overlay Singing, Fuzzy and Strangle to Xyz summon Raidraptor - Rise Falcon (Atk:100).'

'And this is finally it?' 'I activate Rank-up Magic Skip Force! This will overlay Rise Falcon into a monster that is two Ranks higher. Rank-up Xyz Evolution! Prideful hunter, spread your wings dyed in the blood of the heroes who fell before and charge through the path of revolution to victory! I Xyz summon! Emerge, Raidraptor - Revolution Falcon - Air Raid (Atk:2000). When Air Raid is summoned, it destroys Natasha and you lose Life points equal to half it's Attack. Or is that Attack equal to its life, I'm not quite sure.' As he taunted Freja for her verbal spill, Air Raid dropped a series of bombs onto Natasha, blowing her up violently (Dynasty LP:9000-8000). I end my turn.'

(Belle hand: Qliphort Monolith, Qliphort Disc, Summoner's Art, Qliphort Shell, Qliphort Helix, Zaborg the Mega Monarch)

Belle: 'If you want to make fun of my sister, then that means you're making fun of me. And I have to warn you, making fun of Schizophrenics is a bad idea. I draw. I'll activate Summoner's Art, to add Qliphort Scout to my hand. Then I'll set the Pendulum Scales with Scale 1 Monolith and Scale 9 Scout, before using Scout's effect (Dynasty LP:8000-7200) and adding Qliphort Cephalopod. Now I'll Pendulum summon two - Qliphort Shell and Qliphort Helix (Atk:1800x2). Then I think I'm going to Link them both off, to summon Link 2, Qliphort Genius (Atk:1800). I end my turn.'

(Caleb hand: Dogmatika Ecclesia, the Virtuous, Dogmatika Punishment, Dogmatika Theo the Iron Punch, Witch of the Black Forest, Dogmatika Nation, Dogmatikaturgy)

Caleb: 'The church is ready to open its doors! I draw and invite you all to the Dogmatika Nation!' As this was declared, the field changed to a series of dreaming spires, cathedrals towering over them all. 'Then because there is a monster from the Extra deck on the field, I can summon Dogmatika Ecclesia, the Virtuous (Atk:1500). And she will search out Dogmatika Fleurdelis, the Knighted.' As the blonde-haired maiden stood, Freja quipped 'It's just like Astrid… if she was a foot shorter, had no fashion sense and was suitable for target practice for archers.' Caleb laughed in response, and twisted the proverbial knife. 'What would you know about fashion, when you dress like… like such a fuckin' skank?' This time though, Freja bit back.

'Better to look like a skank than lose looking like I just ate the whole of a Heinz factory.' 'Including the tins' Belle added sharply. But Caleb took it in his stride. 'Oh look, she talks, maybe if I pull that ponytail off she'll actually behave like a real human. Then again what do you expect from the criminal classes? We came here for a real challenge but instead we got a slapper and a murderer.' It was Belle's turn to get heated after this comment, but again a quick tap from Phil reminded her of where she was. 'It's a shame I can't murder you, might make you look better. At least you have a personality though, unlike Goth Boy.'

'Call me goth boy all you like, because from where I'm stood, we're winning and you're only where you are because one of you fucked your manager.' 'Technically that was Rio, and she was quite incredibly drunk. Come to think of it so was he actually.' Seeing the distraction, Caleb tried to take advantage by resuming his turn. 'Now I summon Dogmatika Theo, the Iron Punch through the same means as my Ecclesia (Atk:1800). As I can with Dogmatika Fleurdelis, the Knighted (Atk:2500). And I think I'll use Fleurdelis to negate the effect of your Genius for the turn.' As he successfully did so, he grinned at the knowledge he was gaining. 'I end my turn by setting two cards.'

(Freja hand: Drytron Delta Altais, Ritual Weapon, Drytron Meteonis Draconids)

Freja: 'I draw. I'll… end my turn with a face-down I guess.' 'You really are useless aren't you? Don't work together, don't complement each other, and we're supposed to believe that you're the best this stinkin' cesspit has to offer?' He then saw Phil stood to the side, baseball cap and sunglasses firmly attached. 'How about you jump in there, or even just wave their lil' white flag?' He didn't respond to the taunting, instead staying silent but watching on in tense breaths.

(Shay hand: Raidraptor - Nest, Rank-up Magic Skip Force)

Shay: 'I draw. I'll activate Rank-up Magic Skip Force!' 'Again?' 'Yes again. This will rebuild the overlay network with Rank 6 Revolution Falcon - Air Raid, turning it into a monster two Ranks higher. Rank-up Xyz Evolution! When you've seen as much real combat as I have, you learn one thing; if you want to stay in the game, you've got to push right to the edge. I Xyz summon! You're clear for take-off, Raidraptor - Satellite Cannon Falcon (Atk:3000). When Satellite Cannon Falcon is summoned, it destroys all your Spells and Traps, and you can't respond.'

This is where Freja snapped back into life though. 'I can't negate your effect, but I can activate Solemn Warning on the summon of it (Dynasty LP:7200-5200).' As the Cannon Falcon was struck down by holy lightning, Phil quietly smiled to himself. But Shay still had gas in the tank. 'I activate the effect of Force Strix to detach its last material and add Raidraptor - Napalm Dragonius to my hand. I'll summon Napalm Dragonius (Atk:1000). And when I summon it, I can deal 600 damage to you.' Napalm Dragonius breathed deadly fire onto the field right in front of Freja and Belle, pressing the advantage (Dynasty LP:5200-4600).

'Now I'll activate Raidraptor - Call, to summon another Dragonius from my deck (Def.:1000). Fire in the hole!' The second Napalm also unleashed fire, which took the Renegade team halfway to defeat, as the crowd watched on in a sighed inevitability (Dynasty LP:4600-4000). 'Now I'll overlay my two Dragonius' to summon a second Force Strix (Def.:2000-3000, Force Strix #1 Def.:3000). I end my turn.'

(Belle hand: Qliphort Disc, Zaborg the Mega Monarch, Trade-In)

Belle: 'I draw. I'll Trade-In Zaborg the Mega Monarch' 'Ooh we have some spicy techs do we?' 'You don't need to worry about that when I draw two cards. And also you don't need to worry about it after I Pendulum summon two - Qliphort Helix and Qliphort Shell (Atk:1800x2). As she did, the flaming core of Genius lit up brightly. 'Because I just summoned monsters to both of Genius' link points, I can use its effect to add a Level 5 or higher Qli monster from my deck to my hand. And I think I'm going to take Apoqliphort Skybase. Afterwards, I'll offer all three of my monsters as tribute for Apoqliphort Skybase, the launching pad to our success (Atk:2900).'

'Now the effect of Skybase; once per turn, it can take control of a monster on your field until the end of the turn. I'll steal Dogmatika Fleurdelis.' 'You can't, because of Dogmatika Nation.' 'I can, which you'd know if you ever stopped to read your own cards. That is, unless Skybase suddenly came from the Extra deck.' The enormous Skybase flew overhead for the champions, and underneath opened a tractor beam, which dragged Fleurdelis up and onto the challengers' field.

'Now Fleurdelis can negate the effects of one of your Force Strix. Think I'll choose the one with Xyz materials. Now Fleurdelis, attack.' The Dogmatika monster charged into battle, and stuck its spear straight through the chest of Force Strix, destroying it (Force Strix Def.:3000-2500). 'And that leaves your other one weak enough for Skybase.' The Skybase opened up its front hatch to reveal laser guns, which shot repeatedly at the other bird until it too crashed to the ground. 'I end my turn with two face-downs, draw three from Monolith, and you can have your monster back.'

(Caleb hand: Witch of the Black Forest, Branded in Central Dogmatika)

Caleb: 'I'll draw, and I'll go straight to battle, attacking with Fleurdelis into Skybase. And when I do, all Dogmatika monsters I control will gain 500 Attack points! (Atk:2500-3000, Ecclesia Atk:1500-2000, Theo Atk:1800-2300). Feel the humiliating pain of defeat!' Fleurdelis destroyed Skybase with a spear straight through the centre of it, but then Freja acted. 'Belle, need your face-down.' 'Err sure.' 'I activate Power Wall. Now for every 500 damage we'd take, I can mill one card. I'll target Theo's attack so I can mill five.' As she did, Ecclesia struck, lowering their points further still (Dynasty LP:4000-1900). 'You got lucky there. I end my turn.' Belle then had a huge surprise. 'And I'll activate my face-down Pendulum Scale! This has four effects depending on the difference between my two Pendulum scales. Because the difference is at least 7, I can return both my scales to my hand, and then summon a Pendulum monster from my hand. I summon Qliphort Monolith (Atk:2400).'

(Freja hand: Drytron Delta Altais, Drytron Meteonis Draconids, Ultimate Bright Knight Ursatron Alpha)

Freja: 'Let's get into the action. I'll draw, and activate the effect of Drytron Gamma Eltanin in my graveyard, tributing Delta Altais to summon it (Def.:0). Then I'll' 'Cry? Nearly did earlier!' As Caleb continued to taunt and laugh though, Freja fired back, and this time it stung. 'You're just using insults to hide the fact that you're scared of me. Scared of the fact that a 5ft nothing model wearing purple lycra can duel rings around you and could tear your arms off if you came any closer. And when you go back to LFD, everyone will laugh at you because you got your arse handed to you by a couple of girls you promised to beat in 3 minutes flat!'

'Now I'll use Gamma's effect to revive Beta from my graveyard (Atk:2000). Then I'll activate Delta in the graveyard, tributing Draconids to summon it (Def.:0), then reveal Usatron Alpha and draw a card. Now I can overlay my three Level 1 monsters to build the overlay network and Xyz summon Drytron Mu Beta Fafnir (Atk:2000). Mu Beta Fafnir effect on summon, send Zeta. Next because I control a Drytron, I can summon Ultimate Bright Knight Ursatron Alpha (Atk:2000), and get to search a Spell card, and I'll take Drytron Meteor Shower. Zeta, tribute Ursatron Alpha (Def.:0). Zeta add Meteonis Drytron, then I'll activate Meteonis in the graveyard to drop Zeta's Attack by 1000 (Atk:2000-1000), and add it back to my hand.'

'Now I'll activate Meteonis, and use two materials from Mu Beta Fafnir as the materials to Ritual summon Drytron Meteonis Draconids (Atk:4000).' 'I'll greet it with Dogmatika Punishment! It destroys your monster as long as I send a suitably… powerful monster from my Extra deck to the grave. I'll send the 5000 Attack point Five-Headed Dragon to destroy your Draconids!' 'Thanks, but you can leave the punishing to me. I activate the effect of Mu Beta Fafnir because I control a Machine Ritual monster, to detach its last material, and negate your Trap and destroy it.' As Punishment got negated, Caleb started to look slightly concerned.

'Why won't you just GO AWAY!' 'Because this is more than just a title. This is an opportunity, this is our lives! Draconids' effect will allow it to banish monsters with a combined 4000 Attack from my graveyard, and destroy two monsters on your field. So I'll banish Drytron Zeta and Delta, and destroy Fleurdelis and Theo.' 'Well you pushed me to this - get ready to taste AGONY! I activate Dogmatikaturgy! This will tribute Ecclesia and Fleurdelis as the materials for a REAL Ritual summon! As he declared this, the entire sky turned a crimson red, with flames caressing the distance. 'Greet the white nadir of evil dogma! Fall and Pray to our high priest, Dogmatika Alba Zoa (Atk:4000).'

With the crowd getting increasingly into the duel, Theo was destroyed by the cascade of meteors, leaving Freja with a very difficult decision. That was, until she looked into her graveyard, and saw an answer. 'I'll banish Drytron Eclipse from my graveyard to use its effect and pump Draconids up by 2000 Attack until the end of your turn (Atk:4000-6000).' 'But… IMPOSSIBLE!' 'Quite possible actually. Draconids, attack Alba Zoa!' Draconids released a veritable cascade of meteors from its wings straight onto Alba Zoa, crushing it (New Church LP:8000-6000). 'Monolith, destroy Ecclesia.' A single red beam came from the Monolith as it briefly opened up, frying the priestess (New Church LP:6000-5100). 'I end my turn setting one. What's next - some crying maybe?'

(Shay hand: Rank-up Magic Soul Shave Force)

Shay: 'I draw. I activate Rank-up Magic Soul Shave Force! Great power comes at great cost, and for us that cost is half of our Life points (New Church LP:5100-2550). In exchange, I can revive Raidraptor - Satellite Cannon Falcon from my graveyard (Atk:3000), and then rank it up into a monster two Ranks higher. Rank-up Xyz Evolution! Supreme Falcon, carry on the wishes of your fallen friends, and fly off to the sky of victory! Soar forth and conquer, Raidraptor - Ultimate Falcon (Atk:3500).' As it appeared, Freja didn't appear to be taking the threat seriously. 'Ooh, big bird. What's next, giant bird?' 'No, what's next is detaching its material to negate the effects of every card on your field, and disable you from activating anything for the rest of the turn. Also, your monsters get clipped for 1000 Attack.' 'I'll activate Rush Recklessly, to give Monolith 700 more Attack (Atk:2400-3100-2100, Draconids Atk:6000-5000).' 'Ultimate Falcon, attack Qliphort Monolith.' Freja's desperate rearguard action was just enough to save her team as Monolith was split in half by a swooping flight from the devastating Falcon (Dynasty LP:1900-500). 'I end my turn. You were lucky this time, but next time you won't be.'

(Belle hand: Qliphort Disc, Qliphort Scout, Qliphort Scout, Call of the Haunted, Break Away, Double Spell, Wavering Eyes)

Belle: 'I'll draw.' Immediately on drawing, she took some time to work out her move, aware that her opponents were tossing out barbed comments still, with Caleb shouting the word "Murderer" over and over. That was, until Freja provided a diversion, allowing her "sister" to think. 'You know, you've got a real mean streak Caleb. If you're not careful, you're going to get wrecked by us one of these days, and I don't think there'd even be anyone on your side who has much sympathy for you. I mean I might, but what do I know, I'm just a ditzy little model aren't I?' This caused Belle to smile.

'Thanks sis, I needed that. I'll set the Pendulum Scales with Scale 9 Qliphort Scout and Scale 9 Qliphort Scout.' 'Who cares, you can't even activate them!' As Caleb laughed though, he learned of her full intentions. 'I activate Wavering Eyes. Because there are two Pendulum scales on the field, this destroys both, deals you with 500 damage (New Church LP:2550-2050), and adds Qliphort Helix to my hand. I'll summon Helix (Atk:1800), and end my turn with two face-downs.'

(Caleb hand: Witch of the Black Forest, Branded in Central Dogmatika, Dogmatikalamity)

Caleb: 'I'll draw! I activate Branded in Central Dogmatika, and you'll see its power when I Ritual summon. But first, I have to use the effect of Dogmatikaturgy in my graveyard, banishing it to return Fleurdelis to the bottom of my deck and Alba Zoa to my hand. Now I activate Dogmatikalamity!' As he did, a black hole with electricity crackling throughout appeared above he and Shay. 'This allows me to Ritual summon by sending a monster from my Extra deck to the graveyard. I'll send the Level 12 Five-Headed Dragon to its grave, and summon Dogmatika Alba Zoa (Atk:4000). Alba Zoa, DESTROY!' Belle was well prepared though. 'I activate Break Away. By sending a Spell from my hand to the graveyard, I can end the Battle phase, and your monsters have their effects negated.' 'Ultimate Falcon's immune to card effects' 'Do I look like I care? Freja, it's on you now.' 'I end my turn, and your monsters lose 1000 Attack (Draconids Atk:3000-2000, Helix Atk:1800-800).'

(Freja hand: Metonis Drytron, Meteonis Drytron, Cyber Angel Dakini)

Freja: 'I draw.' As she saw the card, she skipped a breath. 'I think… this is it.' Belle then looked over at her. 'Breathe.' She nodded, and started. 'I'll activate Drytron Zeta's effect in my graveyard, to tribute Cyber Angel Dakini and summon itself (Def.:0). Then I'll add Sprite's Blessing to my hand.' 'So you're going to try and match my mighty Ritual again are you? Fat chance!' This is when Caleb saw Freja smiling though. 'I'm not going to try and beat your Ritual monster, because I want it for my own! And now, the stage is set. I activate the graveyard effect of Cyber Angel Natasha! Everything has a purpose, and hers wasn't just keeping us alive. By banishing another Cyber Angel from the graveyard, like Dakini, I can summon Natasha (Atk:1000), and then steal Dogmatika Alba Zoa!'

As Natasha appeared, she rode over towards Alba Zoa, and brushed her cape past it, causing it to rise up and walk away from Caleb and Shay. And there was one last move to make by Belle. 'I activate Call of the Haunted, bringing back Qliphort Genius (Atk:1800).' Seeing the danger, Caleb started begging them off. 'Don't do this, you know you want to win with your own cards, you don't want to win by stealing. We… we can talk about this, arrange a rematch,' Freja's eyes were fixed on the prize though. 'Alba Zoa, attack.' The Dogmatika priest directed two purple beams of light from the sky, diverting them into Ultimate Falcon, slaying it (New Church LP:2050-1550). 'Genius, take us to VICTORY!' A single fireball from Genius was enough to complete a monumental comeback (New Church LP:1550-0).

The moment their music played, Freja fell to her back, overcome with emotion at what she had achieved. Belle was also in tears as the announcement came through. 'Winners of the duel, and the NEW LFD Tag-Team Champions, Belle Draper and Freja McKinna, the Dynasty!' As they hugged in the centre of the duelling zone to cheers, Phil walked over, all smiles, handing them their belts. After some time to regain their composure, they lifted the belts, as Rio and Blair ran out to join them. Blair shared some warm wishes with Belle, and the two sets of champions lifted their belts together, their manager standing behind them, chest out and proud. Meanwhile the fallen champions could only look in complete shock at the dramatic turnaround.

Backstage

Astrid arrived for the pre-main event interview, to find Maddy wandering around aimlessly, scraping brick dust off the floor behind her with her pink and white trainers. 'Hey, you ok?' Shocked, Maddy babbled an answer. 'Y… yeah I'm… I'm fine, what's up?' 'The fact that we have an interview in a minute, and I just found you kicking brick dust around like a mare.' 'Sorry, erm… everything's fine, just a lil'...' She then came up with a diversion. 'Oh, the interviewer's here.' Coincidentally, as Astrid turned around, the same woman who had interviewed Blair and Rio earlier was hastening towards them. 'So sorry I'm late, you'd think they'd have more than one person doing all this.' 'It's fine, let's just get it done.'

'Right, with me right now are the other half of the main event, the WDC Young-Gun Champion, Don Alpha, Maddy Smith, and the WDC Champion, the Arctic Fox, Astrid Hofferson. Now Astrid, you seemed somewhat surprised that the challenge was made for tonight, was this not discussed at any time?' 'No, we heard it for the first time when you did. I'll tell you what I do know, and that is that I wanted a challenge, and they're going to bring exactly that.' 'Is this the kind of challenge you embrace?' 'Look, I want to take on every strong challenger I can.' 'Does that include in LFD?'

'As I say, I want to take on strong challengers. And I'll go where they go. Be it here, LFD, NWD, the Moon, Jupiter, a galaxy far far away, I don't care, I'll face them. You're going to see me wherever there is a challenge.' 'Now Maddy we know that you have teamed before, but why do you think that you have a chance of beating such a well-oiled and formidable team.' Maddy didn't respond though, still looking down, so Astrid gave her a quick back kick in the shin. 'Huh, what sorry?' 'I was just asking what makes you think that you even have a chance in the main event.'

She shrugged, and indignantly stated 'Because me and Astrid are friends. People don't see it, but we trust each other with everything. When she was out with a broken neck, I was the first one there to comfort her. When I was getting emergency surgery, she was the first person to get tested for a transplant. When Astrid won the WDC Championship, I was the first one to congratulate her. Hell, when I won the Young-Gun Championship, she was the first person to congratulate me, and she wasn't even in the Renegades at the time. Point is, we trust each other, and we both give everything to each other, because we know that we can rely on each other. Rio, Blair, you know how much loyalty means to all of us, four of the pillars of the Renegades. But right here right now, loyalty means nothing. Bad wolf out.' As Maddy walked off, Astrid looked at the interviewer, and asked 'Do you think I need a cool catchphrase?' 'I dunno.' 'Ok, no worries' she smiled, and walked away.

In the duelling zone

Rio and Blair were first to walk out for the main event, as ice-cold diamantes rained from the sky. They signalled to the crowd, who gave them a largely positive reaction (no mean feat considering their opposition), and made their pose before walking down, wearing matching gear again. In the zone, they lifted their titles to the sky, and Rio made a point of shouting 'Dynasty Rules!'.

They didn't have to wait long though, as Pstereo played, and their opponents made their way out, shaking hands on the ramp to pyro, with Astrid having again swapped her bunad for her usual gear, while Maddy was wearing a visually-impressive black vest with neon green trim, and the words "Bad Wolf" scrawled on in Geoff's blood from the earlier altercation. As they walked down though, Maddy still looked somewhat distracted, albeit she refocused as they arrived at the duelling zone. A local blonde strongman then walked between the teams, and in his powerful accent, introduced the main event as the lights dipped.

'The following is the main event of WDC World Tour: Kristiansand, and is a WDC Champion's Showcase. This duel will be non-title, and will have a three hour curfew time-limit. Introducing first, the team to my left, they are the WDC Tag-Team Champions, represent the Dynasty, Blair Flannigan and Rio Kastle, together they are the Frozen Diamonds. And their opponents, represent the Renegades, they are the team of the WDC Young-Gun Champion, Don Alpha, Maddy Smith, and the WDC Champion, the Arctic Fox, Astrid Hofferson, together they are the Madstrid Treaty!' With the introductions done, the two teams shared a salute to each other, and then the duel began.

Champion's Showcase: Frozen Diamonds (Rio Kastle/Blair Flannigan) LP:8000 vs. Madstrid Treaty (Maddy Smith/Astrid Hofferson) LP:8000

(Blair hand: Shaddoll Fusion, Shaddoll Falco, Shaddoll Core, Shaddoll Squamata, The Book of the Law)

Blair: 'I'll start by activating Shaddoll Fusion, fusing Falco and Squamata to Fusion summon El Shaddoll Winda (Atk:2200). Falco effect to summon itself back face-down, Squamata effect to send Beast to the graveyard. Beast effect to draw a card. I'll activate Secret Village of the Spellcasters, then I'll pass turn.' As Maddy looked on nervously, Astrid took charge. 'I'll take this one.'

(Astrid hand: Mara of the Nordic Alfar, Ljosalf of the Nordic Alfar, Valkyrie Zweite, Nordic Relic Brisingamen, Garmr of the Nordic Beasts, Mischief of the Time Goddess)

Astrid: 'I'll draw, and summon Mara of the Nordic Alfar.' 'Mara's the one that tunes with stuff in hand isn't it?' Rio inquired, showing a good knowledge of Astrid's deck. '10 points to the girl in… is that Mustard?' 'Yeah, it was supposed to be a midnight sun reference, but apparently Bronchitis also stops you reading forms correctly. So you were saying?' 'I'll tune Mara with the Garmr and Ljosalf in my hand. Loke, bedragets allmektige herre, bruk din slemming for å lure våre store fiender inn i dine dødelige snarer! Synchro Summon! Loke, asernes herre! (Loki, almighty master of deception, use your villainy to lure our great enemies into your deadly snares! Synchro Summon! Loki, Lord of the Aesir!) (Atk:3500).' 'Clever, get around my Secret Village.' 'These groves won't keep you safe for long at the assault of my gods. Only the rules we must follow from false gods is keeping you from harm. I end my turn with a face-down.'

(Rio hand: Nekroz of Brionac, Nekroz Cycle, Nekroz of Unicore, Nekroz Kaleidoscope, Nekroz of Sophia, Nekroz of Trishula)

Rio: 'I'll draw, and activate Nekroz Kaleidoscope.' As she did, Astrid looked at Maddy. 'Told you so.' Strangely though, she didn't reply, watching on pensively. 'I'll send the Level 10 Cyber End Dragon from the Extra Deck to my graveyard and summon Nekroz of Brionac and Nekroz of Unicore (Brionac Atk:2300, Unicore Atk:2400). When Brionac is summoned, it returns an Extra deck monster on your field to whence it came. So Loki is going back where he belongs.' Brionac swung its icy sword, creating a hole in the air which sucked Loki into it. 'I'll end my turn.'

(Maddy hand: Fluffal Sheep, Fluffal Dog, Frightfur Jar, Edge Imp Chain, Fusion Fright Waltz, Instant Fusion)

Maddy: 'My turn!' Rio then looked at her. 'Main Phase 1?' 'Err yeah, why?' 'Nekroz of Sophia effect in my hand. I'll discard her and Nekroz Cycle to lock you from Special summoning during Main Phase 1 this turn.' This appeared to completely throw Maddy off, and she spent a long time deliberating over her move, concerning everyone. Eventually, Astrid took a chance on knowing what was causing the delay. 'You know you don't have to attack in the Battle phase, right?' This seemed to free her mind up, and she made a move.

'I'll summon Fluffal Dog (Atk:1700), and use his effect to get Fluffal Penguin to my hand. Now because Unicore's negating the effects of all Extra deck monsters, Winda's restriction doesn't apply to me. So I'll enter and exit my Battle phase, then summon Fluffal Sheep through its effect (Def.:800), and then bounce Dog back to my hand, to summon Edge Imp Chain (Def.:1800). I end my turn with a face-down.'

(Blair hand: Shaddoll Core, The Book of the Law, Aleister the Invoker)

Blair: 'I'll draw. I'll summon Aleister the Invoker (Atk:1000). With him, I'll get Invocation. Then I'll overlay Aleister and Nekroz of Unicore to Xyz summon Dugares the Timeless (Atk:1200).' 'Don't see you Xyz summoning much' Maddy remarked, leading to the response of 'And I don't see you taking 8 minutes over a turn much. If you're going to face us at least try and get your head in the game. Dugares has three effects. What part of your turn is best to lose Ri?' Looking at her hand, she responded. 'I don't need my draw.' 'Ok, I'll use Effect 1 to draw 2 and discard 1, then Rio loses her Draw phase. Incidentally, Winda's effect is now turned back on. Winda, attack Edge Imp Chain.' Winda held a cheese wire-like string in her hand, and cleaved it gracefully but violently through Chain, destroying it.

'When Chain goes to the graveyard, it grabs Frightfur Patchwork for me.' 'Brionac, destroy Sheep.' Blair's efficient offence quickly cleared Maddy's field, and she was determined to keep up the advantage. 'After the Battle phase ends, I'm going to use Invocation, banishing Aleister and Edge Imp Chain to Fusion summon Invoked Caliga (Def.:1800). I end my turn with a face-down. Bring me your best shots.'

(Astrid hand: Valkyrie Zweite, Mischief of the Time Goddess, Defence Draw)

Astrid: 'I'll draw, set a card face-down and pass.'

(Rio hand: Nekroz of Trishula)

Rio: 'I'll skip straight to battle, and attack directly with Winda.' Winda's stings fired towards Maddy and Astrid, dealing the first damage of the duel (Madstrid LP:8000-5800). 'Brionac, attack.' 'I activate Defence Draw. This reduces the Battle damage to 0, and then I draw a card.' 'I end my turn.'

(Maddy hand: Fusion Fright Waltz, Instant Fusion, Fluffal Dog, Frightfur Patchwork, Necro Fusion)

Maddy: 'I'll draw. I summon Fluffal Dog (Atk:1700).' 'You want to use your one monster effect?' Blair taunted, which she got a swift response to. 'Yep. I'll add Edge Imp Sabres. Then I'll end my turn with two face-downs.'

(Blair hand: The Book of the Law, Nephe Shaddoll Fusion, Homunculus the Alchemic Being)

Blair: 'I draw.' As she did, she paused for a moment to consider what Maddy's set card was. (So her face-down has to be something decent, because she had no hesitation. It's not Mirror Force because she wouldn't have set that until we had more on the field. It's probably not Ring for the same reason… actually, maybe Malevolent Catastrophe, I saw her flip that on Brooke in the Arena a couple of weeks back). Theorising this, she laid a little test down. 'I'll set one card and attack Winda into Fluffal Dog. Gotta have it.' 'Dunno what you think I have, but I don't (Madstrid LP:5800-5300). 'Brionac, attack.' This time, Brionac's icy sword was able to connect, giving the tag champions a major advantage (Madstrid LP:5300-3000). 'I end my turn.'

(Astrid hand: Valkyrie Zweite, Mischief of the Time Goddess, Valkyrie Vierte)

Astrid: 'I draw. I'll set a monster, set a backrow and pass.' Maddy looked very concerned at this, but her partner quickly reassured her. 'I know you've got this Maddy. You just need to stay focused.' Enthused, she smiled and nodded.

(Rio hand: Nekroz of Trishula, Zefraxa, Flame Beast of the Nekroz)

Rio: 'I draw.' As she looked at the card, she shook her head. 'Literally anything else. Right, I'll go straight to battle, and attack with Brionac.' Brionac lifted its frozen sword, slicing through Valkyrie Vierte (Def.:1400). 'When Vierte is destroyed by battle, she summons another Valkyrie from my deck. I'll summon Valkyrie Brunhilde (Attack:1800-3300). She gains 500 Defence for every monster you control (Def.:2000-3500).' This prompted Blair to reveal one of her secrets. 'I activate The Book of the Law. By tributing Invoked Caliga, I can summon a different attribute of demonic disaster from my Extra deck. Appear from the other place, Invoked Purgatrio (Atk:2300). For each card you control, it gains 200 Attack points. I can see…' Blair then realised her miscalculation. 'Five, I counted one of the face-downs twice (Atk:2300-3300). I'll end my turn.'

(Maddy hand: Instant Fusion, Fusion Fright Waltz, Edge Imp Sabres, Danger! Bigfoot!)

Maddy: 'I draw. I'll set two and then activate the effect of Danger! Bigfoot in my hand.' 'I'm guessing by the fact you set two that there's a card you want to hit in your hand.' As she placed the cards in the hand holder of her duel disk, the eyes on the head of the wolf lit up gold, and the cards were continuously shuffled until one was discarded. 'As it wasn't discarded, I summon Danger! Bigfoot! (Atk:3000). Then I'll show you that my face-down was something you apparently didn't see coming - Necro Fusion.' Rio rolled her eyes at the sight. 'I forgot you played that stupid card…' 'This fuses together the Fluffal Dog and Edge Imp Sabres from my graveyard so I can summon Frightfur Kraken (Def.:3000).'

'Kraken, use your effect. You can't attack anyway, so I'll use your effect to send Winda to the graveyard.' As Winda departed at the mouth of the Kraken, Blair used her effect. 'With the effect of Winda, I'll add back Shaddoll Fusion.' 'You know the funny thing?' It was Rio who realised what Maddy was referring to. 'B, doesn't Secret Village have another effect? You know, a… non-Spellcaster effect?' Blair twigged at this, and gave a slightly embarrassed apology to her partner. Meanwhile, Maddy limbered up, and her eyes started glowing as the entire crowd started cheering for her. Even Blair and Rio started smiling at it, even the heat of battle not dampening their admiration.

'Now I'll activate Frightfur Patchwork, to add Edge Imp Chain and Polymerisation to my hand. Then I'll use Polymerisation, fusing together Kraken and Edge Imp Chain to Fusion summon Frightfur Sabre-Tooth (Atk:2400-2800). Chain will get Frightfur Fusion to my hand, and Sabre-Tooth will bring back Kraken (Def.:3000). That means Kraken can use its effect again and get rid of Purgatrio. I end my turn.'

(Blair hand: Nephe Shaddoll Fusion, Homunculus the Alchemic Being, Shaddoll Falco)

Blair: 'I draw.' 'I activate my face-down Frightfur Jar.' A large, glass jar emerged from the ground, and as it sat there, the top occasionally lifted up to reveal a pair of vicious red eyes glaring at Rio and Blair. 'I get to discard this Danger! Chupacabra! from my hand, and draw a card. If it's an Edge Imp, I can destroy a card on the field. Otherwise, I have to place a card from my hand on the top or bottom of my deck.' She drew the card and flipped it up. 'Fluffal Mouse. I'll place it on the top of the deck.' 'Great, now I get to use Brionac's effect to send your Sabre Tooth and Kraken back to your Extra deck.'

Once again, the sky itself was carved open by the Nekroz monster, and both Kraken and Sabre Tooth were dragged into the hole, which then closed up after them. 'Now I'll switch…' At this moment, Rio had a revelation mentally, and signalled something to Blair, who smiled. 'I'll end my turn.' Everyone appeared to be confused at her decision, but Blair gave a thumbs up to her partner, understanding the gamble to take less damage.

(Astrid hand: Valkyrie Zweite, Mischief of the Time Goddess, Guldfaxe of the Nordic Beasts)

Astrid: 'I draw. I'll summon Guldfaxe of the Nordic Beasts (Atk:1600). And I'll Link off Guldfaxe. Holy maiden of the gods, she who was thrice reborn to walk this earth, resurrect your being once more so you may call the gods to my side! I Link summon Link 1, Gullveig of the Nordic Ascendant (Atk:800, Link Arrow:BL). And just as you see her, she is seen no longer! I activate her effect, banishing herself and both cards from my hand to summon three Nordic monsters from my deck. Come, Vanadis of the Nordic Ascendant, Nordic Smith Ivaldi, and Mimir of the Nordic Ascendant (Atk:1200, 1500, 600). On summon Ivaldi searches out Nordic Relic Laevateinn. And Vanadis can act as any Nordic Tuner for a Synchro, so I'll tune Level 4 Vanadis to Level 4 Ivaldi and Level 2 Mimir, to bring back to the battle Loki, Lord of the Aesir (Atk:3500).'

'Loki, attack Nekroz of Brionac.' Loki shot electricity from his finger, shrinking Brionac down before crushing it with one finger (Frozen Diamonds LP:8000-6800). 'I activate the effect of Zefraxa, Flame Beast of the Nekroz in my hand. When a Nekroz is destroyed by battle, Zefraxi summons itself (Def.:1000).' Astrid then stopped to consider her next move, knowing that Rio would benefit from an empty field. Eventually she reached a consensus. 'I guess I'll end my turn.'

(Rio hand: Nekroz of Trishula, Kuji-Kiri Curse)

Rio: 'I'll draw and activate Kuji-Kiri Curse to send Nekroz of Trishula to the graveyard and draw 2. Now I'll use Preparation of Rites, to add Nekroz of Brionac to my hand, and then add Nekroz Kaleidoscope from my graveyard to my hand. Now I'll activate Kaleidoscope, sending Muddy Mudragon from my Extra deck to summon Nekroz of Brionac (Atk:2300).' 'You ever get bored of that?' Astrid joked, but Rio wasn't listening, as she was trying desperately to find a way to victory. Three minutes went by with her trying all kinds of combinations in her head, until Blair shouted over to her. 'Take a breath.' As all this was going on, Maddy shook her head, realising that Rio had made an illegal play which nobody had recognised. Realising it was too late though, she said nothing. 'Brionac effect to get rid of Loki… again.' Rio appeared to be surprised as Brionac's effect worked for the third time, and Loki once again made a quick departure. 'I'll end my turn there.'

(Maddy hand: Frightfur Fusion, Fluffal Mouse)

Maddy: 'I draw, and I'll summon the Fluffal Mouse I stacked last turn (Atk:100).' Blair then had a shock for her. 'I activate Shaddoll Core to summon itself (Atk:1450). And because I control a Spellcaster now, you can't activate Frightfur Fusion!' Thinking on her feet, Maddy responded. 'I'll Link off Level 1 Fluffal Mouse, to Link summon Linkuriboh (Atk:300, Link Arrow:BC). Then I'll attack Brionac with Valkyrie Brunhilde.' Brunhilde rode in gracefully, slamming her sword through the chest of Brionac, destroying it (Frozen Diamonds LP:6800-6300, Brunhilde Atk:2800-2300). 'I end my turn.'

(Blair hand: Nephe Shaddoll Fusion, Homunculus the Alchemic Being, Shaddoll Falco, Fusion Conscription)

Blair: 'I draw. I activate the effect of Invocation in the graveyard. By returning it to the deck, I can add Aleister back to my hand. Then I'll summon him (Atk:1000), and use his effect to grab Invocation from my deck. Next I'll activate Nephe Shaddoll Fusion, equip it to Core, and immediately use it to fuse Core and Falco to Fusion summon El Shaddoll Wendigo (Def.:2800). Then I'll use Invocation, and fuse Wendigo with the Invoked Purgatrio in my graveyard to summon your world of hurt. You like gods Astrid? Well let me show you their afterlife! I Fusion summon Invoked Elysium (Atk:3200).'

'Aleister, attack Linkuriboh.' As Aleister cast his spell and a pentagram approached, Maddy was forced into action. 'I activate Linkuriboh's effect, tributing itself to drop the Attack of Aleister to 0 for the rest of the turn (Atk:1000-0).' 'Invoked Elysium, attack Brunhilde.' Elysium shot a searing light from its globe, which burned Brunhilde badly. 'By paying 1000 Defence points, Brunhilde can't be destroyed by battle (Def.:2000-1000, Madstrid LP:3000-2600). 'I'll end my turn.'

(Astrid hand: Guldfaxe of the Nordic Beasts)

Astrid: 'I'll draw. I'll attack Aleister with Brunhilde.' 'Go ahead, see if I care (Frozen Diamonds LP:6300-4500). 'Would you care a bit more if I activated Maddy's face-down Instant Fusion? It lets me summon a Fusion monster from my Extra deck, Level 6 or below. Like Frightfur Bear (Atk:2200). And I'll summon Guldfaxe of the Nordic Beasts (Atk:1600).' 'If you're not going for Thor… what are you going for? Wolfrayet's a 9, Crocodragon's a 9.' 'Do you really think I'd tell you everything I have? I'll tune Level 4 Guldfaxe to Level 6 Frightfur Bear to Synchro summon a crusader of antiquity, a soldier from an exotic land. Allons-z, Barrone de Fleur (Atk:3000).'

Without delay, Rio responded. 'No idea what that does, but it's not sticking around. Elysium effect, banish itself and all your monsters.' 'I'll activate Baronne's effect. Once while face-up on the field, it can negate an effect and destroy the card it came from.' Baronne rode in on its golden mount, and trampled Elysium, destroying it. 'Now Baronne can use its other effect to destroy your Secret Village.' As the gentle groves were trampled and ruined, Astrid wiped away a bead of sweat. 'Finally that thing's gone. I end my turn.'

(Rio hand: Swift Scarecrow)

Rio: 'I draw. Because we control nothing, I'll banish Nekroz Kaleidoscope from my graveyard alongside Brionac, to add Nekroz Mirror to my hand. Then I'll set one and pass.'

(Maddy hand: Frightfur Fusion, Edge Imp Scythe)

Maddy: 'I'll activate Frightfur Fusion, fusing together Edge Imp Chain and Fluffal Mouse to Fusion summon Frightfur Sheep (Atk:2000). Sheep, attack.' 'I'll activate Swift Scarecrow' 'Not right now you're not. Did you not stop to wonder why I summoned Sheep? It's because when Sheep attacks, you can't activate anything until after the damage step.' Sheep unleashed a deafening baa, before shooting a chain out of its mouth at high velocity (Frozen Diamonds LP:4500-2500). 'Now I'll attack with Brunhilde and you'll get to activate Swift Scarecrow.' 'You got it, I'll discard it to end the Battle phase.' 'I end my turn.' The crowd applauded, completely engrossed in the contest.

(Blair hand: Homunculus the Alchemic Being, Fusion Conscription, Omega Summon)

Blair: 'I draw. I activate Fusion Conscription. This lets me reveal Invoked Magellanica in my Extra deck, to add Aleister the Invoker to my hand, but I'm not allowed to summon it this turn.' 'Your deck don't stop, does it?' Maddy stated, in awe. 'My deck doesn't stop and nor do I. We'll keep going all night. For now I'll set a monster, set a face-down and pass.'

(Astrid hand: Alviss of the Nordic Alfar)

Astrid: 'I'll draw. I'll use Brunhilde to destroy your hidden threat.' Brunhilde galloped into battle, and slayed Homunculus the Alchemic Being (Def.:1600), destroying it. 'Baronne, for the win!' 'Hate to disappoint, but my face-down is Omega Summon. If you'd have thought to destroy it before the Battle phase then you would have just won, but as is the way of the world. I now get to bring back as many banished Invoked monsters as possible in Defence mode. Return from oblivion, Invoked Purgatrio (Def.:2000).' Seeing the defence stat, Astrid looked to the sky and laughed out of frustration. 'One Defence point less and we'd be home free. Oh well, suck it up. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust, Invoked Purgatrio is once again bust!' Baronne's golden steed crusaded in, leading to Purgatrio flaming out. 'And now I can attack directly.' Sheep shot its chain out, which left the tag champions on the verge of a huge turnaround defeat (Frozen Diamonds LP:2500-500). 'I end my turn.'

(Rio hand: Nekroz Mirror, Shurit, Strategist of the Nekroz)

Rio: 'I draw.' Seeing the card, she clenched her fist. 'I activate Nekroz Mirror. This allows me to Ritual summon a monster in the graveyard. So I'll tribute Shurit, which through his own effect counts as the entire tribute for the summon, and bring back' 'Nekroz of Brionac?' Astrid groaned. 'You got it (Atk:2300). And Shurit allows me to grab another Nekroz of Trishula from my deck. Now Brionac's effect… you know, you've probably got the drift by now.' 'Yeah, just slightly.' As Baronne and Sheep left the field, there was still the issue of Brunhilde. 'Well, it appears that we're at a stalemate here. I end my turn.'

(Maddy hand: Edge Imp Scythe, Fluffal Mouse)

Maddy: 'I draw. I'll just pass the turn.' 'Seriously?' Rio remarked. 'Just tell Blair to take her turn, k?'

(Blair hand: Aleister the Invoker, Megamorph)

Blair: 'I draw. I summon Aleister the Invoker (Atk:1000), get Invocation. Invocation, banish Aleister and Fluffal Mouse from the graveyard to Fusion summon Invoked Magellanica (Atk:3000).' Sensing danger, Maddy suddenly went for a risky play. 'I'll activate Edge Imp Scythe.' As she did, Astrid warned her off. 'Be careful Maddy!' 'I know what I'm doing, I'll fuse Scythe and Fluffal Mouse to Fusion summon Frightfur Cruel Whale (Atk:2600). And Cruel Whale can destroy itself and Brionac.' This turned out to be a critical mistake though, breaking the stalemate. 'I activate Nekroz of Trishula's effect from my hand. By discarding it, your effect is negated and your monster destroyed.' 'I can banish Scythe from the graveyard to protect Cruel Whale.'

'Doesn't matter, I activate Megamorph to double the attack of Magellanica (Atk:3000-6000). Attack Valkyrie Brunhilde.' As the concluding attack came in, all Maddy could do was watch on, ashamed at her mistake being the critical moment of the contest (Madstrid LP:3000-0).

Upon their victory, Rio and Blair went wild, celebrating with each other and laughing joyfully, and they were quickly joined by Ally and Phil as well. Phil then walked across to Maddy, who was almost in tears at her performance, being consoled by a smiling Astrid. Before long, Blair and Rio had also come over and shared some words with her, before the two teams shook hands warmly. Afterwards, Maddy quickly exited, and Astrid had a few more words with Rio before she followed her tag partner, slinging her title back over her shoulder as she did. Blair then took a microphone, and addressed the crowd.

'Right here, right now, we just proved to the world that we are the best team in the world today. Because we just took on two of the toughest, most skilled duellists in the world, and we defeated them clean and fair. Me and Rio, we have devoted everything to perfecting our craft, and now, we're the absolute top class. But we can always improve, so here's the challenge - we'll take anybody. Anyone who wants a go, call your shot, and we're going to be there, and prove why we are as good as we say we are, because diamonds are forever' 'And you'll beat us when hell freezes over!' The previously torn crowd cheered, and the show concluded with Rio and Blair lifting their titles high.

Alpharic Legends Chapter III

'For the brilliant Alpha showed her strength, but she also showed her weaknesses and treated them just the same, their reverence only matched by the caution with which they were approached. And while those who masqueraded as parental figures to fulfil a need that was no longer there offered support, in reality they offered false dawns; lessons which could be learned, yes, but also words of reassurement and vindication which were not as they seemed, for these were empty words, provided to ease concerns of a purpose no longer required.'

'Reassurances lead to newfound confidence, but they also lead to overconfidence, to refusing to listen to an inner voice and to charge headlong into danger. The opposing armies were gathering like a storm, and the cracks that showed in the alpha's armour were very real. Nevertheless, their mystique and continued bravery through all the storms was an inspiration, and more glory days were to come before the decline of a once-great empire.'

Next time: Maddy has to face her doubts head-on against Crow, The Enforcers aim to provide a challenge to Phil and Blair, and Rio gets close to the truth in Renegades: A New Dawn Chapter LXI: Highland Fling