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.

26. Fight for your Right

Renegades: A New Dawn

Chapter XXVI: Fight for Your Right

A limited line-up was travelling from England to Estonia, consisting of Maddy, Phil, Lydia, Freja, Kelly, and Astrid. At the airport, Jack seemed confused at the lack of people. But there was more pressing matters on his mind first as he talked to Phil. 'How's Blair doing? I saw the video on the old social.'

'Yeah, she said she's fine, I've not actually seen her though, she's meeting us either at the airport or the arena, depending on whether her alarm goes off. She's got Rio and Jade with her though, so she should be fine.' Maddy then ran up, wearing a cream-coloured beanie and her favourite jumper.

'So Dad, you got a title defence with Rio?' 'Do you ever read the card before you get there?' 'Nah, seat of me pants is how I roll.' She then giggled hyperactively, and Phil noticed something unusual about her appearance. 'Is that… lipstick? And eyeliner. Who are you trying to impress?'

She burst out laughing at the thought. 'Nobody! I just thought I'd try something different for once, try a bit of make-up. It doesn't look that bad does it?' 'You're asking the wrong person kiddo.' She then leant over to Jack. 'You alright?' 'Yeah I'm not bad thanks. You look great if you don't mind me saying. You're almost enough to turn a gay man straight.' She smiled, with the slightest air of shyness around her. 'Thanks. Not what I was expecting today, turning you straight.'

As she sat down on the plane, she turned to Freja. 'How's this for make-up?' 'Lipstick 3/10, Eyeliner 10/10.' 'What's wrong with the lippy?' 'Firstly you really don't suit such a bright colour. Secondly you're only supposed to put on a tiny amount. Nothing more. It looks like you put it on with a bucket and spade. We'll get you right.'

Lydia then noticed Astrid sat at the back, eyes closed and breathing slowly. 'What's up with her?' Maddy shook her head. 'She doesn't like flying. So she usually sleeps on the plane, and I wake her up when we're about to land. Oh, and she's convinced herself that if she always sits at the back of the plane, she'll be safe in the case of a plane crash.'

Lydia then muttered an idea regarding that. 'But what if it's the back of the plane that crashes?' 'Don't mention that to her, it's difficult enough persuading her to get on the plane as is. Here, I'll prove she's ok.' Maddy then shouted across the plane to the Scandanavian. 'You alright back there Foxy?' The reply was quiet yet stern. 'The last person to call me that nearly lost three teeth.'

Just as the plane was about to take off, Phil got a call. 'Hello? Hi Rio, how are you all? Good to hear. Any idea if you're going to meet us at the airport or not? Ok, well we'll see you at the arena then. Ok, bye.' The founder didn't even have chance to put his phone down before the plane's powerful engines screeched into life.

Baltic Championships Stop 4: Helsinki, Finland (Nordic Championships)

Sir Gil de Randsborg vs. Astrid Hofferson

Tee Taylor vs. Eagle Adams

Chazz Princeton vs. David Marshall

Johannas Ibaro vs. Typhus Markars

Kieran Byrne vs. Girag

Justin Pipe vs. Rodney Brown

Kalin Kessler vs. Marko Anders

Rio Kastle vs. Radley

Grudge Match: Akiza Izinski vs. Freja McKinna

WDC Tag-Team Championships: Sgt. Tyranno Hassleberry and Lt. Claude W. Duane vs. (c) Renegades (Phil Robinson and Rio Kastle)

WDC Young-Gun Championship: Celina vs. Spica vs. (c) Maddy Robinson-Cummings

Upon the plane landing, everyone flooded off, eager to explore their latest stop. Meanwhile, Phil shrugged his shoulders and went off towards the Old Market Hall to get lunch, accompanied by Kelly.

'So is Hannah ok or what?' 'She's absolutely fine. She just had a bit of a scare the other day.' 'What exactly happened? I've barely seen you since.' 'She had a fall at home and blanked out for a moment. She felt terrible the next day so she went to the hospital.' Concerned, Kelly pressed for the rest of the story. 'And...' 'The doctor said she was just exhausted from all the travelling recently. So she's skipped out on this one, but she's thinking of coming to the next one in Glasgow. It's only a couple of hours drive so she should be fine. I've been telling her to look after herself for weeks but she doesn't listen.'

'That is because you want to wrap her in cotton wool. Trust me, I understand, my ex husband was just the same… I think. Kinda difficult to remember.' Lying through his teeth over how Kelly was recruited, Phil simply stated 'Happens to all of us at times', before quickly changing the subject.

Elsewhere in Helsinki

Maddy had dragged Astrid and the twins to a traditional sauna. 'Why would you want to come here?' 'Duh – where else you gonna get a tan in the Arctic in Feburary?' 'Why do you need a tan? Who wants to look more orange.' 'It might improve my complexion.' Astrid then rolled her eyes. 'Still about this modelling? I told you, they accept you for who you are or not at all.'

'Yeah, that might work when there's more cod than humans, but it sure as hell don't work in England.' Astrid threw her hands up in the air, and walked off. 'Where you going?' 'Vikings and Sauna don't mix. Meet you there.' As she dashed off into the distance, the other girls went into the sauna.

Having left the others, Astrid was walking towards the stadium, guided only by a compass. 'Who needs maps when you've got instincts?' She soon got distracted however, by running into Jade, who was lay on a bench, seemingly asleep. So the Viking gently walked up to her, and tapped her on the shoulder.

'Astrid isn't it?' 'Indeed. Where are the others?' 'Rio and Blair went to the sauna. What about Maddy?' 'Same.' 'Why didn't you go?' 'It's -1°, where I'm at my best. I only feel alive at minus temperatures. What about you?' 'Can't deal with the humidity. I know, an Iranian who can't cope with humidity, how ironic.'

'I've met Icelandic folk who don't like the cold. Just because you live somewhere doesn't mean you like it.' 'Pardon the pun, but how are you so chilled about life?' Astrid laughed, before sitting down. 'I don't know. I try not to take life so serious. I save all that for fighting.'

In the sauna

With Lydia's bladder having not lasted, Maddy and Freja were left in the sauna, with Freja wearing a bikini for maximum tan, while Maddy's towel was all the way up to her neck. 'Why are you covered up so much?' 'Because I don't do nudity. I was gonna wear a vest but I forgot to pack it.'

Rio then walked in, and laughed. 'Don't worry, Maddy's just scared of her body, nothing new.' 'Nice to see you. How was Michigan?' 'It was fine.' Where are the other two?' 'Jade said that she needed to get something to eat. And Blair doesn't like saunas.' 'Any idea where she is?' Rio just shrugged her shoulders in ignorance. 'Dunno. Said something 'bout an Internet Cafe. Kinda didn't hear most of what she was saying.'

Rio then started to speak completely unintelligibly, as thousands of thoughts raced through her mind, until Maddy jabbed her in the shoulder. 'Slow down, I can't understand a word you're saying.' After taking a moment, Rio tried again. 'Blair's actually in a remarkably good mood considering what she went through. She seems like a different person actually, almost as if' Fortunately for Freja and Maddy's eardrums, the rest of what she said barely sounded like English.

Ebjerg Cafe, Helsinki

Phil and Kelly were having a nice relaxed lunch together when Phil got a phone call from a private number. 'That will be Megan then.' 'Your sister in law is a private number?' 'She put it on private number the other week and can't work out how to take it off. We told her to get the bloody thing fixed.' He then answered it and got a surprise. 'Megan, have you not got that thing fixed yet? Oh, Kheerat? Where did you get my number from? I might have known he'd do it. Yes, I'm there on Wednesdays. Come to the back door and I'll have someone meet you. Ok, I'll see you there.'

'Who was that?' 'Kheerat Nandi Deol. I know him from college.' 'You get on?' 'I mean we didn't talk much but we always got on pretty well. Anyway, he's become a very good businessman, he's earned millions through property development and owns a restaurant in Nepal. He wants to witness the courses being taken at the arena with a view to investing.' 'Awesome.'

In the arena

The club (minus Blair) reunited at the arena, ready for battle once again. The show began with The Regiment entering, with Claude having brought about a dozen "soldiers" with him. However, just as he was about to speak, the capacity crowd in the Finnish capital drowned him out, a pattern which lasted nearly 20 minutes, before they stopped long enough for him to start.

'We're busy so let's get this over and done with. Because Randsborg here is a gallant knight, and he has better things to do than wait for a cripple to make an appearance. These here are my soldiers, they serve in my army. The Renegades call themselves an army, but I think we all know who wears the khaki here.'

No sooner had Claude finished than the Renegades music hit, and Astrid ran down to the duelling zone, while the general looked on in disbelief, before snapping out of it and looking over at his army. 'This time, you're toast. Get her.' Upon seeing them coming for her, Astrid smiled, and drew her axe, as well as two short wooden fighting sticks, and started fighting.

The first two soldiers had their ribs smashed in by the fighting sticks, two more ate stinging kicks to the face, a fifth almost hit her before having their knees taken out by the sticks, a swift axe to the jaw took down another. This however allowed one of the remaining soldiers to catch her arms, and hold her in place.

Perfectly comfortable, Astrid bided her time for another soldier to charge, only for her to drag down the arms of her captor, making them collide, and then nailing them both with skull-shattering kicks, and then sweeping through several more, her trusty axe gracefully slicing through them all.

The final soldier relied on a cheap sneak attack, but this was stopped with a spinning kick to the face, followed by her signature Kamengiri kick, felling him. Intimidated, Claude sent a hesistant Hassleberry out to his doom, which was quickly delivered as he stupidly ran straight at Astrid, who just held her axe up in front of her face as the Sergeant readied a punch.

While he tried to shake the pain out of his hand, Astrid adjusted her kransen, and then swung her axe straight through Hassleberry's legs, the blade digging into his groin. While he cringed, she took a run-up, and kicked the axe further into his genitals, releasing a single pained tear from his face as she withdrew the weapon, before slamming it onto the top of his head, and he dropped to the ground. When she turned around, Claude had run away.

Randsborg then rather sheepishly stepped up to Astrid, and put on a brave face. 'Young maiden, you attack with weapons most brutal and barbaric. If you truly wish to do battle with a foe, then do battle with me in the nobler of combat, in our coliseum.' Astrid gave a perplexed look, and gave a blunt response. 'I don't know what you were on about there. But if it's a duel you want, well let this be your Ragnarok.'

Baltic Championships Round 1: Sir Gil de Randsborg LP:4000 vs. Astrid Hofferson LP:4000

Turn 1: Astrid: 'May the fair lady go first.' 'You're really starting to get creepy. I summon Valkyrie Vierte (Atk:1400). And now for Goddess Skuld's Oracle. Skuld weaves the future, and now your future belongs to me, as I can see the top three cards of your deck, and put them back how I like. But first, I add Goddess Verdande's Guidance to my hand.'

As Astrid saw the cards, she knew immediately which order she would return them in, but made a tactical decision to delay for over two minutes before returning them. 'By your response I will expect that luck was not on your side today.' 'I end my turn with three face-downs.'

Randsborg: 'It be time to tread the path of the silent warrior. I draw. I summon Silent Swordsman, Level the 3rd (Atk:1000). But he shall not stay on this plain in this form for I activate the Spell card Level Up! This tributes my Silent Swordsman LV3 for noble service, and summons Silent Swordsman Level the 5th (Atk:2300).'

'Now my Swordsman, take up arms against that wicked Valkyrie.' 'I activate my face-down Lost Wind. This halves the attack of your Swordsman and negates his abilities. Now that's something to shout about (Atk:2300-1150). Vierte, cut him down to size.' The weakened Swordsman was sliced by the Valkyrie on her trusty steed, causing it to disappear in a bright light (Randsborg LP:4000-3750).

'Fear not, for a good warrior always has another plan. I will be activating the Level Modulation spell. This grants you the ability to draw two cards, which is a small price for the return of my monster. Silent Swordsman LV5, you have been called back for active duty (Atk:2300). I end my turn with a face-down.'

Astrid: 'I draw. I will activate the effect of Goddess Skuld's Oracle, to alter your future.' Once again, the Norwegian took her sweet time organising the cards, before slowly putting them back. 'You appear to be indecisive m'lady? Or is this all gamesmanship? For that isn't an act that somebody of my higher moral standing could ever accept.'

'Some call it gamesmanship, others call it siezing the advantage. Because now your brain isn't where you want it. I activate Goddess Verdande's Guidance. Verdande is the goddess of the present, so her effect is dependant on my knowledge of the present game state.' 'What treachery is this?'

'Verdande forces me to once per turn predict the top card of your deck and whether it is a monster, spell, or trap. If I guess right it's set to your field. And rest assured I do not miss. I predict it to be a monster.' The monster Shining Angel was then revealed, and set to his field. But Astrid had plans for it.

'And now my trio will be complete with Goddess Urd's Verdict. Urd's domain is the future and yours looks grim, because Urd provides all Valkyries with protection from card effects. And once per turn, she allows me to state what your face-down card is. And if I'm right, it's banished.'

The 20 year old then started messing around pretending to be telepathically linked with the card. 'I'm feeling the presence of Shining Angel in there.' The Level 4 monster was revealed, and instantly crumbled away into dust. 'Next I'll tribute Valkyrie Vierte to tribute set a monster. I end my turn with a face-down.'

In the box

Everyone was watching on impressed with Astrid's modified style of duelling. 'This isn't really a fair contest.' Lydia then leant into him. 'We're the Renegades, who said anything about fighting fair?' 'I'm not complaining. Astrid's got this loser all at sea. When your opponent isn't keeping to a regular pace, you tend to start second guessing your moves because you're busy trying to work out what they're thinking.'

'Almost like you're fighting two battles.' 'Exactly like that. You're fighting yourself mentally. And when you do that, I'm afraid you've lost.' 'So how do you counter it?' 'Simple – don't let yourself get dragged into it. You need to stay focused on your own game.'

Randsborg: 'It be my turn. Your tricks most foul shalt not intimidate me, for I summon my most noble Marauding Captain (Atk:1200). And as he arrives, he brings a comrade to battle. I call upon thee, Freed the Brave Wanderer (Atk:1700). Now I shall tribute my Marauding Captain as he is banished to thy yard of graves, in order to summon Silent Swordsman (Atk:1000).'

'You speak weird – I'm not sure I like it.' 'Your insolence shall be punished as soon as Freed attacks your hidden fiend.' Freed drew his sword, and charged at Astrid's monster (Fortune Chariot Def.:2000), before his sword broke and the blade spun back, clanging off of Randsborg's armour (Randsborg LP:3750-3450).

'You shall be undone wicked maiden! And then our chief shall have his way with you.' 'Eww, you're starting to get gross now. Has he told you that would be incest? Or doesn't that matter to him? I guess he'll take whatever he can get.' These comments were what truly got under the skin of Randsborg.

'I shall not have you talk about him in such a manner. Lt. Duane is a fine leader of people, and once he wins the WDC Championship, you will come begging at his feet to share in his success.' 'I'd rather kill myself than ever be to that sleaze.' As Astrid muttered swear words in her mother tongue, Randsborg felt he had an advantage.

'I equip my Silent Swordsman with a Jewel Sword. This gives him 300 Attack (Atk:1000-1300). I will end my turn there, and wait until I can punish you again for your foolish words.'

Astrid: 'You couldn't punish a fly! I draw.' 'As you enter your Standby phase, Silent Swordsman gains 500 Attack points (Atk:1300-1800).' 'So what? I activate the effect of Goddess Verdande's Guidance. I can predict what type of card is on top of your deck. I choose Monster.'

As she did, the chosen monster was set to Randsborg's field. 'And now the effect of Goddess Urd's Verdict. I predict your monster is Silent Swordsman LV7.' The monster was indeed revealed to be the strongest Silent Swordsman, which crumbled.

'And now just to mix it up a bit I'll use the effect of Skuld. So I can decide what card you draw next turn.' Randsborg's protestations over the plan came to nought as Astrid sifted through the cards, before choosing a new order. After this, she continued with her plan. 'Time to try out the modifications. Because I control three Continuous Spells, I can summon this direct from my hand. So get ready for the tearjerker as I summon Dragon Queen of Tragic Endings (Atk:1900).'

'Dragon Queen of Tragic Endings, attack Freed with Tragedy Stream.' The necrotic-looking Dragon shot purple light at Freed, which burned through the warrior like acid (Randsborg LP:3450-3250). 'And if you think that's bad, wait for my Queen's ability. When she deals battle damage, you have to send a card from your hand to your graveyard. Then I draw a card. I end my turn, a face-down.'

Randsborg: 'I draw. As I do, my Swordsman gains more strength (Atk:1800-2300). I activate mine Silent Sword Slash. This card grants to my Swordsman the power of 1500 Attack points, and immunity to your vile effects (Atk:2300-3800). Now my soldier, carve up this creature which stands before us and destroy Dragon Queen.'

'Too bad you ran into my Power Wall.' 'Your effects' 'Don't affect your monsters. Good job this only affects me. I send a card from the top of my deck to my cemetary for every 500 damage I would take, and in return I take no damage. So that's four cards.' Astrid's clever tactical move did nothing to help her Dragon Queen who was sliced clean in half. 'I end my turn (Atk:3800-2300).

Astrid: 'I draw (Silent Swordsman Atk:2300-2800). I activate the effect of Dragon Queen of Tragic Endings. Because she's in my graveyard, I can send Goddess Verdande's Guidance to my cemetary and summon her back (Atk:1900).' 'Whatever you may plan, it shall not work, my face-down will ensure of that.'

'I'm not so sure. I summon Valkyrie Vierte (Atk:1400). And during my turn, she can start revealing cards from the top of my deck until I find a Normal spell, and add that to my hand. The rest go to the cemetary.' Astrid then started to reveal her cards as Randsborg watched on, confused at what she was planning (Valkyrie Scheste, Valkyrie Erda, Goddess Verdande's Guidance).

'Whatever fowl plan you have, it will not work. My Silent Swordsman will ensure my victory, for he treads the path of only the noblest warriors.' 'Say that to my Golden Arrow of Ullr. This can only be wielded by a monster whose Level is at least 6, and allows them to attack directly this turn. 'You don't have such a monster who is suitable.' 'Remember Dragon Queen? Attack with Arrows to Ashes!' Astrid's durable Queen lifted the arrow and threw it like a javelin, with it burning up in mid-air and striking Randsborg's expensive armour, singeing it slightly (Randsborg LP:3250-1350).

'And because Dragon Queen dealt you battle damage, you have to lose the last card from your hand. And just to balance all of it out, I draw a card. Which I'll lay face-down. And a little warning as I end my turn.' The Arctic Fox smiled before delivering her warning, knowing what would happen next. 'Don't attack.'

Randsborg: 'Do not think you will intimidate me fair lady, for I do not respond to empty threats. Firstly, Silent Swordsman gains 500 Attack points (Atk:2800-3300). And with this here card, I will eliminate you from our ranks. I activate Silent Sword Slash. As you may remember from before, this gives the warrior who treads the path of silence 1500 Attack points and protects from all your card effects (Atk:3300-4800).'

'I activate my face-down DNA Transplant. This makes all monsters on the field Light-attribute.' 'I see not the relevance of your move. However what I do see is your Dragon Queen being destroyed by my gallant Swordsman.' As the attack came in, Astrid rolled her eyes. 'Seriously? I help you out and you still ignore me? Fine, I activate the ability of Honest from my hand. Discard it, Dragon Queen gains all your monster's Attack points (Atk:1900-6700). Tragedy Stream.' The duel ended with an acidic rain from Astrid's monster (Randsborg LP:1350-0).

After the duel, the Norwegian wasted no time in running the remainder of Claude's regiment off, and raised the Renegades salute, and waited for her interview, where she showed off her own language skills, by conducting the entire interview in Finnish, much to the delight of the native fans.

'Astrid Hofferson, what a remarkable recovery. When you got injured, everyone back in the press rooms was saying that you would never come back from that. And yet just a few weeks later you're here. What kind of condition are you in physical wise?' 'Ei paha, kaulani on ehkä 35%, mutta olen puhdistettu ja tunnen henkisesti vahvemman kuin koskaan. Pahoittelen, jos jollain tästä ei ole mitään järkeä, suomen kieleni ei ole suuri.' (Not bad, my neck is perhaps 35%, but I've cleaned and I feel mentally stronger than ever. I'm sorry, if any of this makes any sense, my Finnish is not great

'Tell me please, what did hasten your recovery so much?' 'Uskon kaikkivaltiaan Thoriin ja klubini rakkaus sai minut jälleen vahvaksi. Uusintavoima!' (My faith in the almighty Thor and the love of my club made me strong again. Renegade Power!) 'Well Astrid, all I will say is good luck for the rest of the tournament.'

While Astrid made her way back, Blair finally turned up, wearing a purple tracksuit jacket and sporting her shorter haircut. Rather peculiarly, she also had a black guitar case on her back. But Rio was more concerned about her timekeeping. 'B, you're nearly an hour late. Where the hell were you?'

'Had stuff to do.' 'What stuff?' Her response was to flick Rio on the bridge of the nose, making her cringe. 'Private stuff.' Astrid then arrived back, and immediately started with the wise cracks. 'Look, we've adopted a turtle!' 'Very funny.' Blair then took the guitar case off, and handed it to Phil.

'It's yours.' 'Really?' 'A certain someone told me that you wanted to learn electric guitar.' 'There's no point hiding their identity, I've only told three people that and you don't speak to Sean or my Dad. So that leaves my loving wife.' Blair then looked around her. 'Where is Hannah anyway?'

'She's back in England, she had a fall the other day. She's fine, just a little bit shaken, so she didn't fancy the trip to Finland.' As the yooper looked deathly concerned, Phil put his arm around her to put her mind to rest. 'If you're that concerned, you could always give her a call. I'll even lend you my phone if you're low on credit.'

In England

Hannah was having a peaceful day with a couple of friends, reading an adult novel when her phone started ringing. 'Who is it Becca?' 'It's your husband.' 'You realise he has a name right?' 'Yeah.' She then leant over and picked the phone up. 'Yes I'm up and yes I'm fine today.'

'I'm glad to hear you're ok.' 'Oh sorry Blair, I didn't know it was you. I thought I told you to ring me when you got to Estonia.' 'Phone ran out of credit.' 'Use Rio's then.' 'Hers died in Michigan.' 'Jade's?' 'Not got your number.' 'You could have got it out of your phone.' 'Oh yeah… good point.'

They then both burst into laughter. 'So you're fine after that fall?' 'I'm absolutely fine. I just fainted because I had low blood pressure. So I'm wearing special compression socks and I've been advised to have more salt. I promise you, there's nothing wrong with me or the little person inside me. Ok?'

'I was just so worried when he mentioned' 'I did ask him not to tell anybody.' 'It was only because I asked.' 'I'll let him off then. But tell him that he owes me a bottle of red.' 'Will do. Are you coming to Glasgow then?' 'As long as I feel alright I'll probably come down. That it?' 'Guess so.' 'Love you kiddo.' 'And you. Bye.'

As Blair came off of the phone, Maddy started making fun of Phil's new guitar. 'So how long has it been going on for Dad?' 'How long has what been going on for?' 'Yer mid life crisis. That's what people do when they're having a mid life crisis isn't it – play electric guitar in black sunglasses.'

'Ha ha very funny.' 'Seriously, it's totally cramping your style.' Phil nodded and smiled to himself. 'I'll remember this conversation when you want something from me.' 'Yeah totally, whatever. When's my title defence?' 'After the Last 8.' 'Why, what's after Round 1?' 'Freja and Akiza.'

Just then, Tee walked out for her duel, now wearing a piece of fabric over her face like a hoodlum. 'The following is a first-round duel in the Nordic Championships. Introducing first, representing Black Rose Inc. , from Ledbury, England, Tee Taylor.' She walked straight down, and then held her two index fingers together to form an "A" shape.

Before she could even look at her duel disk though, Eagle came down to a song called "Aute Cuture", and wasted no time in storming down. The confrontation was rather different to waht may have been expected by the body language however, as they eyed each other up.

'You don't need this Teresa. You don't need this at all.' 'Who are you to tell me what I need?' 'Who's Akiza to? Who's Lukas to? What's it to do with any of us? I'm just telling you that you're worth way more than being some underling. I think so, and so does Caprice.' This seemed to strike a tone with Tee, who's stance softened ever so slightly. 'What's any of this to do with her?'

'We care about you. We want you to be the god-damn beautiful woman you are. But you can't do that until you're free of your shackles. So why don't you jack it all in and become your own woman, your own stylish woman.' A slightly conflicted Tee activated her duel disk, to start the duel. 'If you won't let me talk to you, then I'll have to do it this way.'

Nordic Championships Round 1: Tee Taylor LP:4000 vs. Eagle Adams LP:4000

Turn 1: Eagle: 'I'll start. I summon Naturia Mantis (Atk:1700). And I activate Double Summon to add a Naturia Horneedle to my field (Atk:1800). I end my turn with two face-downs.'

Tee: 'I draw. I activate Polymerisation, to fuse together three Blue-Eyes White Dragons to summon Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon (Atk:4500).' 'I activate the ability of Naturia Horneedle. If I tribute Naturia Mantis, I can destroy your Ulitmate Dragon.' Horneedle fired a sharp purple stinger at Ultimate Dragon, poisoning it and forcing it to collapse.

'That's a sign Teresa. It's a sign that Akiza is poisoning your mind, and all you have to do is fire back to be free. Power isn't everything.' This comment made Tee angry. 'I don't need to be free! I activate The Melody of Awakening Dragon. I discard one card to add Blue-Eyes Chaos MAX Dragon and Blue-Eyes Alternative Dragon from my deck to my hand. I set a monster in Defence mode and end my turn.'

Eagle: 'My turn. I tribute Horneedle to summon Naturia Bamboo Shoot (Atk:2000). While Bamboo Shoot is here, you can't activate any Spells or Traps. So you're cut off from half your deck. Attack her monster.' Bamboo Shoot threw out a pair of vines which powered straight through the face-down Masked Dragon (Def.:1100), triggering it's effect.

'When Masked Dragon is destroyed, I can summon a Dragon from my deck, if it's Attack points are no more than 1500. I summon Divine Dragon Ragnarok (Atk:1500).' 'I end my turn with two face-downs.'

Tee: 'I draw. I activate Polymerisation, fusing together Divine Dragon Ragnarok with the Lord of D. in my hand to summon King Dragun (Atk:2400).' 'Knew there was something about you. Still don't know what you're trying to prove though.' 'That Akiza knows the true path. King Dragun lets me summon a Dragon from my hand once per turn for free. I choose Dragon Spirit of White (Atk:2500).'

'When it's summoned, one of your Spells or Traps is banished. I choose your face-down.' 'Before it's destroyed, i activate Rush Recklessly to give Bamboo Shoot a power-up (Atk:2000-2700).' 'I end my turn.'

Eagle: 'I draw. I lay another face-down and summon Naturia Fruitfly (Atk:800). Fruitfly feeds off of your monsters. For each Naturia monster i control, your monsters lose 300 Attack (Dragon Spirit Atk:2500-1900, Dragun Atk:2400-1800). And that makes Bamboo Shoot the strongest monster on the field. Destroy Dragon Spirit.' As the shiny white dragon felt the wrath of the Bamboo Shoot, Eagle attempted to get through again.

'This will keep happening. She is making you weak.' Deep under Akiza's spell however, this fact wouldn't register. 'Queen Akiza makes me stronger. You wouldn't understand though, you never had the chance. Because she only chooses the best.' 'More like she chooses her easiest victims. I end my turn with a face-down.'

Tee: 'I draw. I summon King of D. (Atk:1200-600). When he's summoned, I can discard Mirror Force to add Dragon Revival Rhapsody to my hand. I'll set a card and end my turn.'

Eagle: 'I draw. I summon Cactus Bouncer (Atk:1800). While Bouncer is on the field, you're not allowed to Special summon. Bamboo Shoot, attack King Dragun.' The Bamboo Shoot fired a vine straight through the king, dethroning him (Tee LP:4000-3800). 'Cactus Bouncer, attack King of D.' The second monster threw a needle-filled arm at the other king, destroying it (Tee LP:3800-2600).

'And now Fruitfly attacks with Bad Vibrations.' Fruitfly flapped it's wings at blinding speed, creating vibrational waves which started to give Tee a migrane (Tee LP:2600-1800). 'I end my turn with a face-down. I don't want to have to do it this way.'

Tee: 'You're the one making it this way. I draw. From my hand I activate Effect Veiler's ability. By discarding it, I can negate the effects of one of your monsters for a turn. I choose Cactus Bouncer. Which means I can now summon Kumongous, the Sticky String Kaiju.' 'You need two tributes for that thing to come onto your field.' 'I know. Which is why you're getting it. I can tribute your monsters to summon it to your field. Like your Bamboo Shoot and Cactus Bouncer (Atk:2400).'

'But I don't want it! I get really scared around spiders.' Impassionately and uncaringly, Tee shrugged this revelation off. 'Tough. Now I activate my face-down Beacon of White. Because I have at least three Blue-Eyes monsters in my graveyard, i can revive Blue-Eyes White Dragon (Atk:3000=2700) and equip it with Beacon of White.'

As the dragon glowed blindingly, Eagle started getting concerned. 'What's going on?' 'Because I have three Blue-Eyes monsters still in my graveyard, Beacon of White allows my Dragon to take flight and take aim three times. Burst Stream of Destruction.' The young rose duellists stood calmly and heartlessly as Eagle got blasted into next week by the vicious attack of Blue-Eyes, a series of balls of white lightning flashing across the field as it did (Eagle LP:4000-0).

Victorious, Tee looked conflicted at the offer she had recieved during the duel, and ended up walking away without acknowledging anybody, while Eagle looked on with a slightly charred face, frustrated. 'She didn't tell me it was going to be this difficult. Maybe I have to go straight to the source...' On this note, she too, departed.

The screens then cut to two camera operators rushing backstage, as they had recieved word of Birchall being in the commisioner's office. He was stood there, dressed all in black, as if attending a funeral, while Geoff (still standing in for the suspended MGA). They were clearly in the middle of a heated conversation.

'I have told you four times now Mr. Birchall, I am NOT giving you another title shot. If it was up to me, you wouldn't be here.' 'So you have no power.' 'I have power alright. Sadly the power to expel you from the tour is up to the Board of Directors, of which I am a member. And yes, it's on the agenda. Was there anything else?'

'A duel with Brady.' 'Not a chance. We are not paying for that level of security. And if you get yourself killed out there against him, I'm not filling in those forms explaining how I let you have a duel on our books against somebody who wants to skin you alive.' 'Not if I get to him first.'

Feeling the need for urgent action, Maltby stood up. 'Security, please escort Mr. Birchall away from the arena. And make sure you do it from the back entrance, I don't want all hell breaking loose.' Getting increasingly agitated, James then started shouting. 'You're all gonna burn! You're all gonna burn!'

As he kept shouting, Vector suddenly appeared next to him. 'Hey what's up best bud?' 'Go away you freak.' As Birchall was escorted away, Maltby sat down again. 'Vector, what can i do for you?' 'I have a certain… someone I want to face.' 'I'm not putting you up against Rio, it says very clearly on my notes that it is a terrible idea.' 'Not quite who I was thinking of...'

After these incidents, the first round continued with little other incident, culminating in wins for Chazz, Johannas, Kieran, Marko, and Justin. Leaving the first round to end with Radley vs. Rio. Radley made his entrance, wearing two vests to try and stave off the cold.

But he then got a surprise as Rio didn't walk out, and instead Belle's face appeared on the screens (under the guise of a luchador mask), with her having hacked into the system. 'I have an announcement to make on behalf of the Renegades. Rio has decided not to compete in this stage of the Baltic Championships as it would not be beneficial to her time to compete against someone like Radley. In her words, it's your lucky day. Especially as in return, Phil and Rio have decided to offer you a title shot after they retain later. But if you lose, you cannot challenge again for 6 months. You have 8 seconds to accept.'

Without hesitating, Radley picked up a microphone. 'Damn right we accept. And not just that, but we're going to whup your asses so badly you'll never want a rematch!' The Renegades logo appeared on the screens, and the message ceased.

Back in the box, Phil was trying to prepare Freja for the duel ahead. 'Are you sure you're ready?' 'Absolutely. She's going to pay for what she did to Lydia.' 'Did you look at the strategy we worked on?' 'Yeah. I know exactly what I'm doing. I'm ready.' After getting her protective bodysuit on, Freja left, accompanied by her sister and by Phil as well.

Akiza was first out, still calm and composed, as replays were shown of her vicious defeat of the elder twin. 'The following is a Grudge Match. Introducing first, from Tacoma, Washington, the Black Rose – Akiza Izinski.' The crowd were deathly silent in awe and fear as she glided down, not showing any discernable form of emotion.

'Akiza has been on a tear lately and it's clear her only objective is the complete destruction of the Renegade empire. Her Aromage Therapy deck works on a healing through draining her opponents, with her punishing the Renegade foe while healing herself.

The Renegades' music then started up, and Freja walked down with Phil and a heavily-bruised Lydia with her, while Freja had a black eye and a scar on her upper lip from trying to protect her sister previously.

'Freja McKinna is a wily and wildly unpredictable competitor, but she is as dangerous as they come when Lady Luck comes calling to her door. Her 50/50 Guarantee deck would be more at home in Las Vegas than Finland, providing great risks for great reward. She'll need all her skill and fortune to defeat Akiza however.'

Arriving at the duelling zone, Phil and Akiza stared each other down as Freja prepared herself mentally. Eventually Akiza had an interesting proposition for him though.

'Your demon seed… did this. This is not a battle they belong in, nor you. Give me one opportunity with your demon seed, this may end. Otherwise I will destroy all of you.' Maddy's father however, wasn't so impressed with the idea. 'No. If Maddy wants to face you, that is on her. But if we are negotiating, how about a counter offer? My offer is this: if you do anything like to Freja what you did to Lydia, then I will personally make sure you never get to face Maddy 1-1. Don't underestimate the power of politics.'

Grudge Match: Freja Mckinna LP:8000 vs. Akiza Izinski LP:8000

Turn 1: Freja: 'Mind if I start?' 'If you like.' 'I draw. I play a monster face-down and end my turn with three face-downs.'

Akiza: 'I draw. I activate Spell Absorption. Whenever you activate a Spell card, I gain 500 Life points. Next I activate the Spell card Poison of the Old Man. This gives me a choice of either gaining 1200 Life points or dealing you with 800 points of damage. I choose the former.'

Freja then giggled. 'When you're up against a Renegade, you're never safe. I activate Bad Reaction to Simochi.' A foul ouder then filled the duelling zone, making Akiza choke (Akiza LP:8000-6300). Immediately, Akiza glared at the experienced for on the sidelines, who just smiled to himself.

'If that's the way you want to play it, fine. I summon White Rose Dragon (Atk:1200). And she never flies alone. Not when she has Red Rose Dragon flying by her (Atk:1000). Level 3 Red Rose Dragon, tune to Level 4 White Rose Dragon. A cold flame envelops the world, and from within, a black flower is about to bloom. I am the Black Rose, and watch as I summon my Black Rose Dragon! (Atk:2400).'

'This isn't good...' 'It's worse than not good. When Red Rose Dragon is used as a Synchro material for Black Rose, I can summon Blue Rose Dragon directly from my deck (Atk:1600). Then, I can add Frozen Rose to my hand. As White Rose Dragon was also used however, I can send a Plant monster directly from my deck to my graveyard, so long as it's at least Level 4. Revival Rose fits the bill nicely I feel. But she isn't going to stay there. Not after I use Black Rose Dragon's ability. Black Binding Bloom!'

The fierce Dragon ate Revival Rose, and it's thorns glowed purple, wrapping around Freja's monster and forcing it into Attack (The Fool Atk:0). Attack The Fool.' A hard and sharp thorn was whipped in, piercing straight through the Fairy and into Freja, who was knocked for six by the impact on her jaw (Freja LP:8000-5600).

After a brief interruption as Freja tried to get her bearings again, Akiza finished her turn. 'I'll lay two face-downs.'

Freja: 'It's my turn. I'll activate Upstart Goblin. This allows me to draw a card but you gain 1000 Life points. Sorry, did I say gain?' As Freja drew her card, Akiza was caught in a deep blue light, reducing her points (Akiza LP:6300-5300). 'Next I activate Snatch Steal. This steals your Black Rose Dragon, but in return you gain 1000 Life points during your Standby phases.'

Freja was pleased until she saw Akiza's response. 'What's that you activated?' 'Malevolent Catastrophe. This destroys all the Spells and Traps on your field.' With all the backrow cards eliminated, Freja's strategy was in complete tatters. Clearly losing confidence, she looked resigned to her fate. 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Akiza: 'I draw. Your little plan was cute. It almost had me worried. I activate the Field Spell known as Aroma Garden.' The beautiful botanical surroundings provided little comfort to the younger twin, as Akiza pressed home her advantage. 'Next I summon Twilight Rose Knight (Atk:1000). But what would a Knight be without a maiden? One like Aromaseraphy Cananga (Atk:1400). And now, my Knight takes the hand of Cananga in holy matrimony through a Synchro summon. I summon Aromaseraphy Sweet Marjoram (Atk:2200).'

'When Marjoram is summoned, I am allowed to add Blessed Winds direct to my hand. Now I hope you didn't forget about my Garden. Once per turn, the beautiful flowers give me 500 more Life points, and boosts the Attack of all Aroma monsters (Akiza LP:5300-5800, Sweet Marjoram Atk:2200-2700). And when I gain health, I can destroy your face-down.'

Marjoram unleashed a vicious petal dance, which completely tore apart Freja's face-down, releasing a hidden Goblin. 'What's that doing on your field?' Freja giggled, and stated 'Standing there.' Unamused, Akiza cut to the chase. 'Go on, what is it?'

'My face-down was a super powerful card called Waking the Dragon. When on my field it's useless. When destroyed, I can summon any monster from my deck or Extra deck. I summon Number 84: Pain Gainer (Def.:0).' Despite her lack of familiarity with Freja's new monster, Akiza was unperturbed.

'Do your worst. It will all be worth it.' 'When Pain Gainer is on the field, it gains Defence points equal to the Ranks of all monsters on my field x 200 (Def.:2200).' 'It's still too weak to survive. Sweet Marjoram, attack.' 'I activate the ability of Swift Scarecrow. When i discard it, it negates an attack.'

The arachnid-like Pain Gainer was saved just in time by an old scarecrow appearing and taking the brunt of the attack, with several of the leaves bouncing off and narrowly missing Phil, who wasted no time in visually reminding Akiza of their deal. 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Freja: 'I draw. I summon The Agent of Creation – Venus (Atk:1600). When I do, I can pay 500 Life points to summon a Mystical Shine Ball from my deck. But why do that once when I can do it twice? (Freja LP:5600-4600, Shine Ball Atk:500x2). Now I'll overlay my two Level 2 Mystical Shine Balls to build the overlay network and Xyz summon Herald of Pure Light (Atk:600, Pain Gainer Def.:2200-2600).'

Freja then glowed a deep red, and her hands started shaking, concerning her sister. 'Is she ok?' 'It's all natural. Promise.' 'My Herald isn't staying though. Because I activate Rank-up Magic EXTREME Icaron's Force!' This finally elicited some reaction from Akiza. 'How are you handling the power?'

'If only you knew. You could have had this power if you hadn't betrayed us all1 This allows me to Double-Rank-Up my monster. Rank-up Xyz Revolution! I summon Number 16: Shock Master (Atk:2300, Pain Gainer Def.:2600-3000). Oh, and I didn't mention the other effect of EXTREME Icaron's Force.'

'Which is?' 'When it is used, I can attach it from the graveyard as an Xyz material to the highest Rank monster on my field. Which is Pain Gainer. I'll detach it immediately though, because now Pain Gainer destroys every card on your field with lower Defence. Arachnacid!' The Rank 11 monster spat out a green acidic fluid, which melted through Marjoram until nothing was left.

'Shock Master, attack directly!' 'I activate my face-down Ground Capture. This halves the damage from your attack.' Akiza's actions didn't stop her being shot with a fierce electric ball, zapping her but leaving little physical trace (Akiza LP:5800-4650). 'Next, because I still took more than 1000 damage, I draw a card.' 'You'll need it. I activate the ability of Shock Master. By detaching an Xyz material, I can stop you using one kind of effect next turn. I choose Monsters. I end my turn.'

Akiza: 'I draw. I activate my face-down Blessed Winds. This gives me the choice of which effect to activate, there's 3 to choose from. I think I'll choose to shuffle a Plant from my graveyard back into my deck and gain 500 Life points. The monster I choose is Aromage Cananga (Akiza LP:4650-5150).'

'Now I activate Monster Reborn to revive Sweet Marjoram (Atk:2200).' 'You can't use her abilities though.' 'Who said I need to? Aroma Garden gives me 500 Life points if I have an Aroma monster out. Also, all Aroma monsters gain 500 Attack and Defence (Akiza LP:5150-5650, Atk:2200-2700). Now destroy Shock Master.' Marjoram's attack tore away at the Rank 4, until it crumbled to the ground (Freja LP:5600-5200). 'I end my turn with two face-downs.'

Freja: 'My turn. I end my turn with a face-down.' Freja appeared to be expecting a scornful response to her turn's inaction, but was instead met with a wall of silence from the rose duellist, who had barely spoken throughout proceedings. 'I end my turn (Sweet Marjoram Atk:2700-2200).'

Akiza: 'I draw. I activate Spell Absorption. With this on the field, I gain 500 Life points every time a Spell is activated. Next I'll activate Shard of Greed (Akiza LP:5650-6150). And when I gain Life points, Marjoram destroys your face-down.' With the mine (Storming Mirror Force) swept, Freja was totally exposed. 'I also gain points from Aroma Garden (Akiza LP:6150-6650, Marjoram Atk:2200-2700). Sweet Marjoram, attack directly. Aroma Storm.' Sweet Marjoram put her hands together before releasing a a suffocating scent, making Freja breathe heavily as the oxygen was drained away from her (Freja LP:5200-2500). 'I end my turn.'

Freja: 'I draw.' Just then, Akiza recognised something. 'That look in your eyes… it reminds me of Maddy. You've not given up.' 'I don't intend on doing either. I wanted it to work between you and Maddy. I thought you could help us, I looked up to you.' 'Join me then.' Freja however, was having none of it.

'No. You're an enemy of the Renegade state. That's all there is to it.' 'You can't beat me.' Freja then burst into pure vitriol and anger. 'Why – because you're recovering your points? Well guess what – you can have all the recovery you like. I activate Celestial Transformation (Akiza LP:6650-7150). This allows me to summon a Fairy from my hand by halving her Attack points, but she's destroyed in the End phase. I summon Darklord Nurse Reficule (Def.:1000-500).'

'You're in denial. It won't even last until my turn.' 'I know. Which is why I'm activating a brand new card. Give a warm welcome to Left Hand of the Mythical God. Our scriptures foretell that Icaron's hands contained the purest essence of power. The left hand could conjure any kind of spell or enchantment in the world by halving his power. I can only activate this because my Life points are less than half of yours (2500 – 7150). I have to pay half of my Life points to use this, but in exchange I can set two Spells or Traps directly from my deck.'

'Just one issue.' 'What?' 'How can you activate that Trap from your hand?' 'Because it's the last card in my hand.' Icaron's eye appeared on Freja's forehead, and the spectre of the great god appeared behind her (Freja LP:2500-1250). 'Now I can set Gift Card and Safe Zone.'

'I'll destroy them next turn.' 'If you destroy either card, then Left Hand is also destroyed. And then you lose 1000 Life points for every Spell or Trap in my graveyard. I end my turn.'

Akiza: 'I draw.' Being acutely aware of her situation, Akiza made a plan as Freja activated her face-downs. 'I activate Safe Zone and Gift Card.' As the Safe Zone surrounded Freja's Darklord Nurse, it released dark, tendril-like hair whips, dropping the gap (Akiza LP:7150-4150). 'I end my turn.' Freja looked on shocked. 'Is that it?' 'Yes. Take your turn.'

Freja: 'I draw.' 'I activate my face-down Ring of Destruction.' 'You can't target my Nurse.' 'I know. But I can target Sweet Marjoram. So we both lose 2200 Life points. I can take that. You on the other hand' A ring of explosives attached themselves to Marjoram like a noose, and they blew up one by one, causing a sharp wave of fire to carrene into Freja, who went down like a sack of spuds (Freja LP:1250-0, Akiza LP:4150-1950).

Akiza stood victorious post-duel, as Freja lay, seemingly hurt, clutching at her ribcage. With her job done, the Black Rose stared into the distance for a moment, almost as if staring through the walls into Maddy's very being, before turning and leaving quietly, the crowd unsure how to react. With Akiza far enough away, Phil bicep curled Freja off of the ground with ease, and carried her away.

Backstage

Away from prying eyes, Freja rolled backwards onto her feet. 'Good acting there.' 'Thanks. Feel a bit shaky honestly.' 'I think that's probably more relief than anything.' Lydia meanwhile, had reservations about Phil's dealing earlier.

'So you're going to let Maddy face Akiza?' Phil laughed. 'Fuck no!' 'But you said...' 'I never said she could face Maddy. It's what isn't said that is important. Besides, in the state she's in recently, there's no chance Maddy's going to accept any challenge from Akiza.'

'What do you mean?' 'You haven't noticed that she's lethargic and not eating as much? She's probably lost half a stone in the past month. Just hope she's better soon.' 'She's got the trials hasn't she soon?' 'On Friday she's got the English 200m trials, if she hits the target time in that then she's off to the national trials, and if she's Top 8 in those then she's off to the World Youth Athletics Championships next year. And if she's anything like she was in the Northern trials, she's going to do serious damage there – she did it in 22.26 seconds, just short of the world U20 record. Any time under 23 should be more than enough.'

'Are you going to be there?' 'I am. Hannah will be there if she's feeling better.' 'Must be right proud of her.' Phil smiled at the thought. 'You know it. Now let's go, before someone finds out we faked Freja being injured to stop Akiza actually injuring her.'

In England

Hannah's relaxing day recuperating at home continued, until there was a firm knock on the door. After a couple of attempts, she dragged herself out of her armchair. 'I'll go and get it then.'

As she opened the door, Rob was stood in the doorway, and immediately pushed his way into the property, looking around, as if he was paranoid about being watched. 'Where is he?' 'What are you on about?' 'Where is HE?!' Bullish, Hannah fibbed. 'He's out shopping – due back in the next five minutes.'

Becca then walked over. 'You do know he'll go absolutely mental when he finds you here.' Rob then dropped to one knee in front of a clearly disturbed Hannah. 'Please just listen to me. He is corrupting your mind. Remember Megan, your sister?' 'Of course I do.' 'He's keeping you away from her, he's trying to make you forget about her.'

'Keeping me away? I spoke to her literally three hours ago. I spent over 20 minutes on the phone to her.' 'You don't get to see her though.' Clearly exaspirated, Hannah tried to explain. 'She lives in London. I am not going down to London constantly when I can just speak to her on the phone.'

'Please Hannah, just listen. I always have loved you. But for him we could have worked it out. We don't need anybody else to give us permission, just come with me. We can even buy this place out from under him, pay him off. Hannah, please will you marry me?'

Hannah didn't hesitate in her answer. 'No. I don't want to marry you, I don't even want to see you right now. Although while you're here, you can have this.' She then passed a piece of official documentation to him. 'What's that?' 'It's a copy of the restraining order I filed against you last week. I'm feeling really nice, so if you leave now, I won't take you to court.'

'You're bluffing – you can't afford it.' Before this conversation could continue, Belle (who had been waiting on Hannah all day at Phil's request) squared up to him. 'Who are you?' 'That isn't important.' 'What is then?' Her warning was stark and very calm, almost like a whisper. 'You leave Hannah alone.'

Undeterred, Rob pushed his luck. 'What happens if i don't leave her alone? Say, what happens if i get someone down to get Phil out of the way and then rescue the princess from the castle?' Belle didn't hesitate, and shocked everyone by pulling a lock-knife on Rob, before talking, her voice still not going up a single octave.

'I killed someone once. It was an accident. Next time, it will just look like one.' Clearly fearing for his life, Rob backed away, but left with one stark warning. 'Hannah, tell him something from his old mate Robert – if he doesn't do the right thing and divorce you, then I'm going to ruin him, step by step.'

With him having run away, Hannah quickly turned to explain the situation to Becca. 'Becks, i want you to stay as calm as possible and listen to me. Belle was convicted of manslaughter when she was in her early teens. She got into a fight with her best friend, Belle pushed her, she fell down a hill and hit her head on a steel post. She was intially fine but passed away the next day. It wasn't murder, it was something which could have happened to anybody.'

'How do you know what she's like? 'I was working as a counseller in a young offenders' institute for a short time and I met Belle there. I got to read through the court papers, all the witnesses agreed it was a total accident.'

'Why've you got that knife then?' Belle responded by placing the knife on the kitchen counter. 'It was my grandfather's. He passed away last year so I keep it on me. I've not got any pictures with him, it's the closest thing I've got. When Hannah was being threatened I just wanted to protect her.'

Helsinki

Phil was just departing the office when Astrid came up to him. 'Got a moment?' 'I do.' As they pulled over, she gently brushed her fringe back. 'Something's not right with Maddy.' 'I can tell that. Unfortunately, I can only go based on what Sakura tells me, and she told me Maddy's probably just burnt out. I'm a few things, but doctor isn't one.'

'Just she seems totally out of it at times. Just between us, you don't think she's back on drugs do you?' Phil immediately shoo his head. 'She wouldn't do that to herself again. Besides, she took a mandatory drugs test back in Stockholm and it came back totally clear. We've got a short break planned for the intermission though, allow her to get closer to nature again. Might do her some good.'

Astrid then changed the subject slightly. 'So… what were you doing there?' 'Just having a frank chat with an old friend about not allowing my daughter to duel a slightly deranged Psychic duellist. He seemed to agree.' 'There's something really suspicious about her.'

'What exactly do you mean by that?' She looked highly concerned as she folded her arms. 'This obsession she has with Maddy, it's more than just revenge I think.' He nodded in agreement. 'I'm inclined to agree. I've been working on a theory, I've been struggling to wrap my ahead around it though.'

'Fire away.' 'My theory is that Akiza has an accomplice in all of this.' 'Meaning?' 'That's what I don't know. I don't know if they're someone we're familiar with, someone new, a former club member, a complete stranger, I don't know.' Astrid then shared her part of the theory.

'There's something more to it than what we're seeing. There's something really not right with how calm she is. Almost as if revenge isn't even the most important thing on her mind. What if… what if she's planning on recruiting Maddy and control her?' Phil seemed unconvinced at the idea.

'Maddy's primal powers are far too strong to allow that. Akiza knows that full well.' 'How do we know that? How do you even test that?' 'Tried hypnotising her a couple of months ago just as a test, it didn't last for even a minute.' 'Akiza was there?' 'It was Akiza's idea. Her Psychic powers are strong, very strong. But not strong enough.'

'She's weak at the moment.' '95% of her power is unconscious. It kicks in if it's absolutely needed. You might call it' 'Surival instinct.' 'Exactly. It's the 5% we can moderate. But Akiza is clearly working with someone. So we need to protect Maddy at all costs.' 'I'll stake my life on it.'

'I know I can trust you to look after her.' 'Affirmative. Just knew how to keep her safe.' 'Well we can agree on one thing can't we – Akiza isn't working alone.' 'Gathered that. Question is though, working with who?'

As Phil walked off, the blonde viking looked behind her, and then took her axe out from inside her palazzo trousers. 'Hvis dette er den eneste måten å beskytte henne mot å skade, kan Thor hjelpe meg for jeg vil ikke nøle.' (If this is the only way to keep her safe from harm, then Thor help me, because I will never hesitate). She then put the axe back in, hiding it in her trousers and covering with a long strapless vest.

Reaching the gate, she took a few seconds to take a breath and say a silent prayer, before walking out, focused only on the job at hand. Within a minute she had arrived at the bottom of the short walkway, having barely taken a breath, while secretly sporting an armband detecting her heart-rate. While she waited for her opponent to appear, the commentators (DJ Topper and Slate Randall) reintroduced her.

'Astrid is a natural talent ready to step out of the shadow of her Uncle, the 6-time WDC Champion Finn Hofferson. Her Moderne Norrone Mytologier deck is a balance deck which provides great consistency and incredible power which is thousands of years old.' Randall then gave an ominous warning. 'When Astrid's in the mood, nobody is safe.'

By this time, a bullish Tee had made her appearence, with Eagle quietly watching on from the crowd, and she appeared to be filming something. Neither duellist spoke a single word before getting in position and starting the duel.

Nordic Championships Quarter-Finals: Astrid Hofferson LP:4000 vs. Tee Taylor LP:4000

Turn 1: Astrid: 'I draw. I activate the Celestial Transformation spell. If Akiza left a brain cell, you'll remember it.' 'Ha ha, funny.' 'I summon Valkyrie Sechste (Def.:2000). When she's Special summoned, she calls another Valkyrie to ride with her. I choose Valkyrie Chariot (Atk:500). Combine.' Tee looked surprised as the horse Sechste rode upon gained a wooden chariot behind it. 'I also activate Valkyrie's Honesty. So Valkyrie monsters now cannot be destroyed by card effects. And now Sechste's effect forces you to send two cards from your deck to the graveyard.' While Tee sorted that issue, Astrid wrapped her turn up with two face-downs.

Tee: 'I draw. I activate Polymerisation, fusing three Blue-Eyes White Dragons to summon Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon (Atk:4500).' Upon summoning the monster though, Tee was surprised to find a brown till with teeth and eyes staring at her unblinkingly (Astrid LP:3000). 'What the hell is that?'

'Oh this old thing? It's my Monster Register. All I had to do was pay 1000 points, and now whenever a monster is summoned, the controller loses that many cards from their deck. So your monster is Level 12, so 12 cards please.' 'Not a chance.' Astrid didn't seem concerned by Tee's reluctance. 'Fine, I'll force you to.'

The register then fired a long red tongue out as the number 12 appeared on the top of it, picking up a dozen cards from Tee's deck and sending them to her graveyard. 'Ultimate Dragon, attack with Neutron Blast.' The young Valkyrie looked to be doomed, until her Chariot took the hit for her. 'Sorry, but when Sechste was attacked, I sent my Chariot to the grave to protect her.' 'I end my turn.'

Astrid: 'I draw. Sechste, I'll activate your effect again. Two more cards to go.' The loss of two more cards made Tee's deck look slightly anemic (Tee Deck:26 cards). 'Now I activate Dark World Dealings. This forces us both to discard two cards, and then draw two (Tee Deck:24).'

'You just allowed me to draw.' 'Thought so.' 'Why?' 'You'll see. For now I activate Ride of the Valkyries. With this I can summon any number of Valkryies from my hand. I summon Valkyrie Brunhilde (Def.:2000).' The Monster Register then activated, and Astrid very calmly sent 7 cards away. 'I end my turn.'

Tee: 'I draw (Tee Deck:23). I activate Monster Reborn to bring back Blue-Eyes White Dragon (Atk:3000).' 8 more cards were then stolen from her rapidly depeleting deck (Tee Deck:15). And it's going to destroy your Valkyriie Brunwhatever. Burst Stream of Destrcution!' 'I activate the effect of Brunhilde. By removing 1000 of her Defence points (Def.:2000-1000), all Valkyries are safe from battle this turn.' A bright burst of lightning came from the mouth of the 3000 attacker, but Brunhilde held out her holy shield, deflecting the blow.

Predictably, Tee then started to get frustrated, which her opponent seemed to enjoy just a little bit too much. 'Why won't you let me attack you?' 'I want to win.' 'You're nothing more than a coward!' 'I'm a winner.' 'You'll have to attack eventually.' 'Will I?' 'You can't win otherwise.' 'Can't I?' A massive, mad smile then swept across Astrid's gentle white skin.

Astrid: 'I draw. I activate Pot of Avarice, to shuffle five cards back into my deck from my graveyard and draw two. I'll also use Sechste's effect again (Tee Deck:13). I end my turn with two face-downs.'

Tee: 'I draw (Tee Deck:12). Blue-Eyes White Dragon, have another go at Brunhilde.' 'I activate her effect again (Brunhilde Def.:0).' Tee by now had completely lost her cool, as the icy Arctic Fox quietly went about her business. 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Astrid: 'I draw. I activate Different Dimension Gate. This allows me to banish your Blue-Eyes White Dragon and my Brunhilde.' The Dimension Gate roared into life, and black spider-webbed holes opened up underneath both monsters, sucking them in. But it wasn't to last.

'Now I activate Double Cyclone. This destroys your face-down and my Different Dimension Gate.' As Tee looked on in total confusion, the monsters returned from their short dimensional vacation. 'But why?' 'Simple – Brunhilde gains her Defence points back (Def.:2000). Now I'll use Sechste's effect once again to make you send two cards from your deck (Tee Deck:10).'

At this point, Tee had an important question. 'Why are you doing this to me? You're not trying to beat me, you're trying to humiliate me.' Astrid just shrugged her shoulders in indifference. 'I guess I just really don't like you. Or Lukas. Or your little puppet puller. Or maybe, I just want to prove a point and you happen to be the perfect canvas. Oh, and I end my turn.'

Tee: 'I draw (Tee Deck:9).' Tee looked at her card and smiled. 'At last I can make a comeback. I activate Dragon's Mirror!' Those dreams lasted all of about 15 seconds, as Astrid swiftly responded. 'I activate Big Burn. Because you tried to use your graveyard, I can banish every monster from it. And without monsters, no Dragon's Mirror.'

Crushed, Tee looked for a way out. 'I summon Djinn Releaser of Rituals (Atk:1200).' The number 4 then flashed up on the Monster Register, and Tee's deck slimmed further (Tee Deck:5). 'I end my turn.'

Astrid: 'I draw. Sechste's effect activates. You'd think it gets boring after a while but it's actually quite fun (Tee Deck:3). To extend your suffering just slightly, I'll end my turn.'

Tee: 'I' 'Don't bother. I activate Present Card. This forces you to draw 5 cards. And if you can't draw enough cards (Tee Deck:3-0), you lose.'

With the rather anticlimactic duel finished, Astrid quickly left while Tee stood there, devastated at what had happened. As fast as her legs would carry her, the Viking power-walked back to the the room containing the other club members (excluding Phil and Rio who had left for their duel), she quietly sat and awaited the results of the other quarter-final duels, knowing she was still dependent on other results to qualify for the Super 8s.

As she saw Kieran slump to a surprising 2800 Life point defeat by Justin, her resolve started to stiffen as Lydia came up to her. 'Hey, is it too soon to ask if you can still qualify.' 'I have to win. Win and I'm in. Time to stop messing around.' Radley meanwhile, had suffered an embarassing 4000 Life point defeat to Marko Anders.

There was then a knock on the door of the room the club had booked, and Marko walked in, all eyes on him. Before anyone could do anything though, Astrid explained the situation. 'He's fine guys. Marko and I trained together. He's the reason I speak Finnish. You learned Norge?'

The youngster, only 18 years of age, smiled, his short blonde hair shining. 'I speak English. Not perfect, ok. Better than you Finnish though.' 'Semis then.' 'And you.' 'Yeah.' 'You reach professional final before?' 'Once. Beaten by Kenta. Difference is, I need this.' 'Baltics.' Astrid just nodded, her expression softening by the minute.

'Still Red-Eyes?' 'Yes, still same, couple of new cards.' 'Hopefully we get to duel sometime.' 'Final?' 'That'd do.' Just then, she got word that Typhus had seen off Chazz to make the semis against Astrid, booking the 7th spot in the Super 8s, alongside Kieran, Lukas, Rio, Jaden, Saeed, and Radley.

The entrances for the tag title duel started with The Regiment making their second appearance, Hassleberry walking very gingerly after the beating from Astrid at the start of the show, and still sporting severe bruising to the head. 'The following is for the WDC Tag-Team Championships. Introducing first, the challengers, they are the team of Lt. Claude W. Duane and Sgt. Tyranno Hassleberry, The Regiment.'

"Claude and Hassleberry are two fine competitiors, but will their overconfidence and earlier confrontation with Astrid cause them issues here? They both run Dinosaur decks, with Hassleberry providing the shackles while his higher-up does all the heavy damage-dealing. But will that be enough?'

With Claude and Hassleberry waiting, the lights went out, and a pillar of blue smoke welcomed the champions to the dulcet tones of New Divide. In a show of solidarity, the two were wearing matching purple shirts and trousers. 'Introducing their opponents, hailing from Renegades HQ, North Shields, England, they are the WDC Tag-Team Champions – Phil Robinson and Cold Blooded Rio Kastle.'

"Phil and Rio are two tough as nails competitors and have been on a hot streak since winning the titles in Texas. Phil is the strategical expert and his credentials as a world champion are undoubted. And Rio provides insane damage output coupled with a take-no-prisoners attitude. They call themselves Team T3 – it stands for Tried, Tested, Trusted, their words, not mine."

In the duelling zone, Phil and Rio took their sweet time in handing over the titles for the duel to begin. As the teams squared up, Phil didn't take his glasses off once while Rio and Claude stared deeply at each other, this being the first time they'd seen each other since the events of Michigan. Before it began, Phil pulled Rio to one side, and shared a quick word before they started.

WDC Tag-Team Championships: The Regiment (Sgt. Tyranno Hassleberry & Lt. Claude W. Duane) LP:8000 vs. (c) Renegades (Phil Robinson and Rio Kastle) LP:8000

Turn 1: Phil: 'I draw. I summon Cyber Dragon Core (Atk:500). When it's summoned, I can add a "Cyber" Spell or Trap card to my hand. One face-down, I'm done.'

Hassleberry: 'I'm going to crush that! I draw. I activate my Double Evolution Pill. This dismisses a Dino and a non-Dino to my graveyard to call out a bigger soldier. Super Conductor Tyranno, report for active duty (Atk:3200).' Phil was extremely unimpressed by this move. 'Just so you know, the US military are nothing compared to the British Army. And they're nothing compared to us.'

'Oh yeah?' 'Yes.' 'Well how about Super Conductor shows his teeth? Forward march!' 'I activate Damage Diet. This halves the damage we take.' Super Conductor charged up with static, and stamped all over the Core, destroying it (Renegades LP:8000-6650). 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Rio: 'I draw. I summon Blizzard Eagle (Atk:2000). And by activating Blizzard Vision, I get a clone of it (Atk:0). Now I overlay Blizzard Eagle and Blizzard Vision to build the overlay network and Xyz summon Number 82 – Heartlandraco (Atk:2000).' The sight of a cute, pink dragon made Hassleberry nearly split his sides.

'That's real cute.' Rio seemed offended. 'Don't under… underestimate her just because she's small. I activate Xyz Unit. It equips onto her and gives her 800 Attack for being Rank 4 (Atk:2800). And because I now control a Spell, she attacks directly.' The small pink Dragon flew straight across the battlefield, completely ignoring the electrical distractions, and slammed head-first into Hassleberry (Regiment LP:8000-6000). 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Claude: 'You really think you're special. I draw. I summon Gilasaurus through his effect (Atk:1400). In return, you can now summon a monster back from your graveyards. Except one of you has none.' Phil then made an unusual move. 'I'll pass thanks.'

'In that case, I'll summon another Gilasaurus (Atk:1400).' 'Again I pass.' 'How about a third Gilasaurus?' 'Pass.' 'Well I'll summon the Tuner monster Jurrac Aeolo to join the party (Atk:100).' Hassleberry then revealed his plan early. 'I activate Gift of the Mystical Elf. For every monster on the field, we gain back 300 points. I count 6 (Regiment LP:6000-7800).' 'Now I tune Level 1 Aeolo to my three Level 3 Gilasauri to summon the mighty Jurrac Meteor (Atk:2800).'

No sooner had Meteor hit the field than it started glowing a bright red. 'I think she's about to blow. You see, when Meteor is summoned, it destroys everything on the field. Brachiosaurus Blow-Out!' Meteor detonated like a bomb, clearing the field in double quick time, with the exception of Super Conductor.

'Super Conductor was safe thanks to my Dimension Guardian. It prevents it from being destroyed in battle or by card effects.' He then looked around, and saw a grand shield parked on the opposing side with 2200 Defence points. 'What in the name of Uncle Sam is that?'

'There's a reason I'm a big deal. I had a face-down when you decided to wipe the field. It's a monster called Artifact Achillieshield.' 'But it was in your backrow.' 'It's called having a reserve unit. Artifact monsters can be set in my backrow as Spells and Traps. And because you destroyed my Shield, it can be summoned. Also you can't attack Artifacts for the rest of the turn. So you're stuffed.'

'Not quite. When Meteor is destroyed it leaves a gift – I can summon a Tuner monster from my graveyard. I summon Jurrac Aeolo (Atk:100). And by tributing it, Super Conductor deals 1000 damage. Sauropod Shocker.' Super Conductor charged up a single burst of electricity, before spitting it out at Rio who cringed (Renegades LP:6650-5650). 'I end my turn with a face-down.' As Rio took a moment to recover, Phil looked at her, and took his turn.

Phil: 'I draw. I activate Monster Reborn to revive my Cyber Dragon Core (Def.:1400). Next I activate Machine Duplication.' 'What use is that when you're only getting weak monsters.' 'You need to remember one thing – Core is treated as Cyber Dragon on my field. Meaning I can summon two Cyber Dragons (Atk:2100 x2). Now I overlay my two Level 5 Cyber Dragons to build the overlay network and Xyz summon the next evolution in Cyber Dragons. Be complete, Cyber Dragon Nova (Atk:2100).' 'That thing's useless against Conductor.'

'Your trash talk is weak. Cyber Dragon Nova has the capability to detach a material and summon Cyber Dragon from my graveyard. And guess what, it's materials happens to be Cyber Dragons (Atk:2100).' 'I still have my monster.' 'I'm getting to that, shut up.' The crowd cheered for the response, as Claude got increasingly annoyed at Phil's lack of speed.

'There's a reason I revived Cyber Dragon. Because by tributing one, Nova gains 2100 Attack points (Atk:2100-4200). Attack Super Conductor Tyranno with Strident Inferno.' 'You just ran into the old classic Mirror Force. Even you are better than that.' As the blast obliterated Nova, Phil smiled to himself in classical confidence.

'You're totally right Claude.' 'I know.' 'No really, you are.' 'Why?' He then focused again. 'Because I AM better than that. When Cyber Dragon Nova is destroyed by your card effect, he leaves me with a little gift. I can summon any Machine-type monster from my Extra deck. And if we're talking about old classics, how about I bust out Cyber End Dragon (Atk:4000).'

'Cyber End Dragon, attack with Super Strident Blaze.' Cyber End Dragon breathed intense fire from all three heads, roasting the Tyranno and destroying it (Regiment LP:7800-7000). 'Don't forget Heartlandraco either.' The little pink dragon flew in fearlessly, headbutting Hassleberry in his injured groin (Regiment LP:7000-5000). Defiant, Hassleberry challenged Phil. 'Is that all you've got?' 'That? That was nothing. I'm operating at 1% here. If I went full throttle, you'd be too scared to ever duel again. I end my turn with a face-down.'

Hassleberry: 'I draw. Because I control no monsters, I'm summoning Gouki Riscorpio without any tributes (Atk:2300).' 'Go on.' 'Confident? How about some Gouki Poison Mist? It deals 700 points of damage. And with mist, you can direct it at a weak point.' Understanding immediately, Phil looked over. 'Rio, get ready.' 'Got it.' As the mist was starting to come in, Phil saw Akiza quietly stood in the entranceway, put two and two together, and pushed Rio out of the way, taking the full brunt of the mist, causing him to go down holding his face (Renegades LP:5650-4950).

As medics came over to check on Phil, he pushed them away, and stood up again, having briefly lost his sight due to the mist as Hassleberry grinned. 'Not so big now are we?' Phil then stood up properly, to reveal a green face, but his eyesight was fine. 'You think bullying someone disabled is funny? Well how about we have some fun then?'

'If you want fun, I'll dismiss two Dinos from my graveyard to promote Ultimate Conductor Tyranno (Atk:3500). And by destroying the Gouki Octostretch in my hand, I can force your monsters to hide face-down in the bunkers.' With the monsters face-down, Hassleberry readied for the assault. 'Attack Rio's face-down monster.' Hassleberry's strong Tyranno ripped through Heartlandraco (Def.:1500), leaving a trail of fire in it's wake.

'And because of Tyranno's effect, you're now losing 1000 points (Renegades LP:4950-3950).' The challengers were very pleased, but when they saw that neither champion looked concerned, they started to worry themselves. 'Uh… I'll activate United We Stand, giving Ulti Conductor 1600 more Attack points (Atk:3500-5100). Now I'll end my turn.'

Rio: 'I draw!' As Rio looked at her hand, she took a deep breath. 'I swore I would never resort to this power again.' As she looked over, she saw Phil mouth the words 'You are Rio' to her, and her decision was made. 'I activate Distortion Crystal. This card doubles all stat changes for monsters (Ultimate Conductor Atk:5100-6700).

'You're mad!' 'Now I summon Blizzard Thunderbird (Atk:1600). By returning it to my hand and discarding one card though, I can summon Blizzard Eagle from my graveyard and Guard Penguin from my hand (Eagle Atk:2000, Penguin Atk:0). Now I overlay them both to build the overlay network! When the power of two worlds collide, your end awaits! I Xyz summon Number 103 – Ragnazero (Atk:2400).'

'No bother.' 'Say that to Rank-up Magic Icaron's Force. This takes my monster up a Rank. Chaos Xyz Evolution! Barian's power, born of chaos, awaken under a new banner and reign terror! I Xyz summon Chaos Number 103 – Ragnafinity (Atk:2800).'

Claude and Hassleberry still looked confident despite this, clearly unaware of Ragnafinity's power. 'I activate the ability of Ragnafinity. By detaching an Xyz material, she can banish Ultimate Conductor Tyranno because it's Attack has been altered.' Phil then delighted in telling the astonished Regiment the real sting of the tail. 'You've not heard the best part yet. The 3200 points that Ultimate Conductor has gained, yep, you're taking all of that to the face. Call this Red Justice!'

Ragnafinity's staff spun at a blinding speed, creating a red orb which swallowed up Ultimate Conductor, turning it into red dust, before a sharp purple light shot out at both Hassleberry and Claude (Regiment LP:5000-1800). 'Cyber End Dragon, attack directly! Super Strident Blaze.' The tri-headed mechanical menace razed the entire field with a fierce triple fire attack, ending the duel in predictable fashion (Regiment LP:1800-0).

As the duel concluded, an interviewer walked over, and requested a quick word. 'Great tag-team title defence, was this a warm-up for the duel against the No Remorse Corps?' 'We don't do warm-ups. We do winning. As for Kari and Radley, if you lose, back of the line.'

'Now Phil, we know that a Mr. Vector has been giving you issues recently. When might we find out what is going on between you?' He shrugged his shoulders in indifference. 'I don't have a clue what's going on. But if Vector has an issue, then we can solve it easily. In The Shadows, I'll be there, I'm inviting Vector to take me on 1-1. Tell me Vector, do you have the balls to accept? Or are you just annoying me for the sake of it?' The two of them then held their titles up and walked off in victory.

Backstage, Rio checked up on her tag partner. 'I'm fine.' 'You sure?' 'I braced in time. I couldn't warn you quick enough.' 'Thanks.' 'No need.' 'I'd do that for you.' 'I know.' 'How'd you think I did out there?' 'Could be a little sharper, but not bad. We're holding onto these for a long time.'

Akiza then appeared on the screens, having something to say. 'Eagle thinks she can save everyone? Some of us are beyond salvation. But if you want to try, then I'll be waiting for you. If this pain will never heal, then let me share it.'

20 minutes later

Astrid and Typhus were in the duelling zone. But Astrid was clearly not in the mood to mess around. A tense stare-off was followed by the two of them activating their respective duel disks, and starting their duel.

Nordic Championships Semi-Final: Astrid Hofferson LP:4000 vs. Typhus Markars LP:4000

Turn 1: Typhus: 'I draw. I summon the Inzektor Dragonfly (Atk:1000). And I can equip it from my hand with Inzektor Earwig, giving 1000 Attack points (Atk:1000-2000). I end my turn with face-down.'

Astrid: 'I draw! I activate Ride of the Valkyries. This allows me to summon as many Valkyries as are in my hand. Come Brunhilde, Sechste, Brunhilde, Fortune Chariot! (Atk:1800, 0, 1800, 1000). When Sechste is summoned this way, she calls Erda to the field (Atk:2000). And Erda takes away 1000 Attack from your monster (Atk:2000-1000).'

'You control a monster, Brunhilde gains 500 Attack (Atk:2300x2). Now Pot of Greed, I draw two cards. One is Cross Attack. Two Brunhildes have the same Attack, so one can attack directly, the other can't attack. And now I activate United We Stand, my Brunhilde gains 800 Attack for each monster I have (Atk:2300-6300). Brunhilde, attack Inzektor Dragonfly!' Typhus could only watch on in horror as Brunhilde's sharp yet graceful blade took out his life points in a devastating OTK (Typhus LP:4000-0).

With the duel over in a flash, Astrid had no time to celebrate before Birchall walked out with Marshall and Brooks. Undeterred, Astrid squatted down on her haunches, and dared them to come after her. And then, they were all interrupted by the familiar 'H.R.C, I'm coming' message, as Hannah appeared via satellite.

'James, what an unpleasant surprise.' 'My dear, what may I do for you?' 'Oh so you've learned sarcasm have you? Congrats on that.' 'Listen, It's clear that the WDC isn't big enough for us to keep away from each other.' 'Correction: you're incapable of keeping away from me. Because of what? Some sick twisted fantasy? Well I've got enough of those annoying me at the moment. So this situation, it has to end.'

Laughing at the thought, Birchall retorted. 'And how's that happening?' 'Simple – I want a duel with you, 1-1. I don't care when, just name a date, name a place. Loser Leaves WDC.' The creep balked at the idea initially, until Martin whispered something to him which pleased the tracksuit-wearing criminal.

'In the Shadows. We can do it there. But only if you agree to marry me when you lose.' Hannah was clearly not having this, but she had taken precautions. 'I figured you'd be reluctant. Which is why I phoned the office earlier. How would you fancy getting rid of me AND a WDC Championship duel if you win?'

Liking the pot being sweetened, this really turned his head. 'Guaranteed?' '100%.' 'Where?' 'India, after mid-season. 1-1 against whoever the champion is.' He grinned at the thought, greed racing through his mind like little else could. 'Deal.' As James went to leave, pleased at his day's work, Hannah dropped a bombshell.

'Oh one more thing I very conveniently forgot to mention. Our duel, you know, the one you just agreed to? It's under a complete lockdown – we're the only ones allowed past the gates.' As the message ended, James, furious at this, sent Marshall and Brooks to take his frustrations out on Astrid, only for her to draw her axe in response.

James then signalled for his soldiers to attack, but instead, they took one look at each other, and walked away, with the words between Marshall and James audible to all. 'Do your f**king job!' 'F*ck no! I'm not going to get my f**king head kicked in by that crazy bitch! I have a f*cking girlfriend to keep!'

'If you don't bring me her f*cking head, you won't have a f*cking girlfriend to go back to. I'll make sure of it.' 'Like you make sure of everything. I'm not f*cking doing it. Why don't you go and fail to kill some other unlucky motherf*cker? You're good at that.' 'I told you, she was dead, I saw it!'

'Well she isn't is she? You saw her, it's not true.' 'Do as I tell you or I'll kick your head in so hard they won't be able to identify your body.' 'I'm a f*cking streetfighter! If you fancy your chances, go ahead and I'll rip your arm off and beat you to death with it. I'd happily go to prison for 50 years if it meant I had the cred of killing the meanest rat in the hole.'

Meanwhile, Astrid had gotten a chair out, and was quietly sat singing to herself. As she continued, security came and tried to escort Birchall and Martin away, only for a brawl to break out as Marshall spat at his now ex boss. A group of 7 or 8 Finnish Armed Forces members then came out of the crowd, and successfully moved Marshall and Brooks on, bringing an end to the issues.

Meanwhile, backstage

Maddy was walking towards the toilets when she ran into Rhydian, and immediately they started snarling at each other, both on edge. 'Come back home!' 'Not a chance!' The WDC Champion then set out his stall. 'Duel me then.' 'What?' 'Duel me. In Glasgow. 1-1. No funny business.' Without hesitation, Maddy made her decision. 'Not a chance. This is already closer to you than I want to be.'

Seeing her response as a challenge, Rhydian revealed his trump card. 'I have something you want.' 'Don't try that again, I'm not interested.' 'Not that.' Rhydian then showed Maddy a video which shocked her to her very core. 'That….' 'Hannah getting shot. I filmed the entire thing.'

She then punched him in the face. 'And you didn't do anything?' 'I didn't want to get killed. Here's the deal – face me and the police get this video.' Dubious, she wanted further validation. 'And how can I trust you?' 'Because I have no reason to lie. Give me a 1-1 against you, and as soon as you start the duel, I'll send the message, and the police get this phone.'

'How do you contact them then?' 'I'm the WDC Champion. You think I can't afford a mobile phone?' Having thought about it, she made her decision. 'After I win, leave me alone. Also, nobody else finds out.' 'You're not going to win. Because deep down, you still like me.' 'Whatever dickhead.' Maddy then walked off, her hair flicking Rhydian in the face as she turned. 'Shea Butter… just like the old days. The more you change, the more you stay the same' he mused nostalgically.

Around 20 minutes later, Marko defeated Typhus to book his place in the final, and it was time for the Young-Gun title duel. Except for the fact that nobody seemed to actually know where the champion was. 'Not come back?' 'No. She went to the toilet 20 minutes ago. She's probably on her period.'

'Just seems a bit weird. She's just acting real strange at the moment.' Freja then gave a hint as to what was going on. 'I know she's been suffering from pain in her ribs, but' 'Hang on, she's suffering?' 'Yeah, she's really struggling. Keeps saying that she's got piercing pain in her ribs.' 'Well all I know is I went to the toilet straight after her the other day, and I was nearly sick at the smell' Lydia concurred.

Maddy then walked in gingerly, clearly not in any shape to duel. 'Talking about people behind their back is rude.' Immediately, Phil got his phone out. 'I'm going to phone the office, tell them you're not well. You're clearly not well.' 'In what way?' 'Well I can see that you look shattered, you're short of breath and you're grimacing every time you take a step.'

She then hugged him. 'Dad, I'm fine. I just didn't sleep too well last night, and I pulled something in my ribs last week. When we get back to England, I'll take a day off. I'm sure Rio and Blair can look after stuff for a day.' He nodded. 'I'm just overprotective.' 'I get it. Thank you.' She then walked off for her duel, Astrid following.

Celina was the first to make her entrance, with a man wearing red glasses and short gray hair watchig her. 'The following duel is for the WDC Young-Gun Championship. Introducing first, from Auckland, New Zealand, Celina.' While the purple-haired Celina walked down, she was analysed by the commentators.

"Celina is a duellist representing the Leo Federation of Duelling, and has been given a title duel as part of a talent trade between the two companies. Her Lunalight Breakdown deck shadows her streetdance past and is said to dance through the opponent's defences before striking them where it hurts.'

Spica was out next, but she was in her human form, and made a beeline to talk to Celina. As they talked, the announcer had a message relayed to them from backstage. 'Introducing the next participant, who would now like to be referred to as Shannon Kelly.'

'Shannon Kelly is the former Spica and a former WDC Young-Gun Champion getting her rematch. All we really know about her is that she was once very close with Maddy, and her Revived Grudge deck harbours all her negative feelings about the situation.'

As their chat finished, the champion walked out unusually slowly, with Astrid beside her. 'Introducing her opponent, from Renegades HQ, North Shields, England, she is the WDC Young-Gun Champion – Maddy Robinson-Cummings.' With the champion making her way down, the analysis continued.

'This is Maddy's 7th title defence as she approaches 100 days as Young-Gun Champion. Fast and furious, she's always a dangerous threat. She and her Beastdown deck have numerous powerful ways of smashing all opponents into the ground quicker than you can say Ouch.'

WDC Young-Gun Championship: Celina LP:8000 vs. Shannon Kelly LP:8000 vs. (c) Maddy Robinson-Cummings LP:8000

Turn 1: Celina: 'Opening move. I'll set a monster and end my turn with two face-downs.'

Shannon: 'I draw. I summon Tristan, Knight of the Underworld (Atk:1800). And every Knight needs his lady, so when I control Tristan, I can also summon Isolde, Belle of the Underworld (Atk:1000). And Isolde has a very special ability. She can make the levels of both my monsters Level 8 (Level:4-8)x2. Now I'll overlay them both to build the overlay network and Xyz summon Number 22: Zombiestein (Atk:4500). I end my turn with three face-downs.'

Maddy: 'Bigger they are and all that jazz. I draw. I'll start with Graceful Charity, drawing 3, discarding 2. Now I activate Mausoleum of the Emperor.' Two large yellow pillars broke through the ground, standing tall and strong. Two terracotta soldiers then appeared on Maddy's field. 'By paying 2000 Life points (Maddy LP:8000-6000), I can tribute these two clay soldiers to summon Earthbound Immortal Cusillu (Atk:2800).'

'Cusillu, attack Shan directly!' Shannon could have countered, but instead let herself take the hit from Cusillu (Shannon LP:8000-5200). 'Got it out of your system yet?' 'Screw you. I end my turn with a face-down.'

Celina: 'I draw. I'll flip Lunalight Blue Cat face-up (Atk:1600). Next I summon Lunalight Kaleido Chick (Atk:1400). Now for her effect. By sending a Lunalight from my main or extra deck to the graveyard, she copies it's name. I choose Lunalight Panther Dancer. Next I activate Polymerisation. This fuses together Panther Dancer, Blue Cat, and the Lunalight White Rabbit from my hand in order to Fusion summon my strongest monster. Close out the performance, Lunalight Leo Dancer (Atk:3500).'

'Next I activate Fire Formation – Yoko. By discarding Lunalight Purple Butterfly, I can destroy Cusillu.' Clearly flustered already, Maddy managed to hold her nerve together to activate her face-down. 'It's Divine Wrath and I can discard to negate and destroy your effect.' Stunned into silence, Celina ended her turn.

Shannon: 'I draw. I'll set a monster in Defence mode and end my turn with a face-down. If you're going to get rid of me, you'll have to hit me as hard as you can.'

Maddy: 'I intend on doing just that.' Maddy was so wrapped up in her own head that she never saw Shannon's secret smile. 'I draw.' 'I activate the effect of Zombiestein. By detaching an Xyz material, discarding one card and switching it to Defence mode (Def.:1000), I can negate Cusillu's abilities.'

'Fine. I activate my face-down Roaring Earth. So now if a Beast attacks a monster in Defence mode, you take the difference in damage. Cusillu, deliver some wolf justice to' Astrid then shouted at her. 'Watch out!' 'I'm fine Trid. Attack Zombiestein.' 'You're too predictable – walking straight into my trap without thinking. I activate Gamushara.'

As the card was activated, Zombiestein's shackles were unleashed (Atk:4500), leading to it grabbing Cusillu, and choking the earthbound life out of the "immortal", destroying it (Maddy LP:8000-6300). 'And Gamushara has another effect when the attacking monster is destroyed. You lose Life points equal to your monster's Attack.' Zombiestein's hand was raised, and it shot a powerful black light out, striking Maddy right where it hurt the most. But instead of getting straight back up, she stayed down (Maddy LP:6300-3500).

To distract from the president's plight, Astrid started shouting at the opposition in her mother tongue. Sadly the words were coming out so quickly that not even an expert in the language would be able to decipher her ramblings. By the time she stopped, Maddy pushed her out of the way gently.

'Thanks.' 'You asked for it.' 'No really, thanks. You woke me up. And it's nice to see I'm in a handicap duel. I'll set a monster and end my turn with a face-down.'

Celina: 'I draw. I'll finish you off in one go, because Lunalight Leo Dancer can attack twice. Go – Full Moon Cresta!' Leo Dancer's first attack saw it dance through the field, and sliced Maddy's monster into bits (Cat's Ear Tribe Defence:200), destroying it. 'Yeah, about that whole one-shotting me. When a monster attacks Cat's Ear Tribe, it's Attack points become 200 (Atk:3500-200-300).

Clearly being outplayed, Celina played on. 'Attack her directly then.' Leo Dancer slammed Maddy, but the damage was largely insignificant (Maddy LP:3500-3200). 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Shannon: 'My draw.' Seeing a clear shot, Shannon decided to take the opportunity. 'Zombiestein, attack Maddy directly.' Maddy's bacon was saved however, by a light from her graveyard, and a wolf in spirit form appeared on her field. 'Thanks Dream Wolf (Def.:1500).'

'What's Dream Wolf?' 'When I'd take an attack which would make my Life points 0, he can be summoned from my graveyard. I dumped it with Graceful Charity on my first turn. Also Dream Wolf can't be destroyed, and I can't take any Battle damage this turn.' 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Maddy: 'I draw. I activate the Spell card Tannhauser Gate. Because I control two monsters of the same type and they have no more than 1000 Attack points, I can combine their Levels (Level:6-12)x2.' Starting to get in her element, Maddy prepared for a big summon. 'Now I overlay my two Level 12 monsters to build the overlay network! I Xyz summon New Order 12: Etheric Maahes (Atk:4000).'

'Maahes, attack Lunalight Leo Dancer.' The lion-headed god of war bit straight through Leo Dancer, destroying it (Celina LP:8000-4300). 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Celina: 'I draw. I'll put Scale 1 Lunalight Wolf in my Pendulum zone. Now I can activate her Pendulum ability. By banishing Lunalight White Rabbit and Purple Butterfly from my graveyard, I can summon Lunalight Cat Dancer (Atk:2400-2500). Next I summon Lunalight Yellow Marten (Atk:800). But she isn't staying, because I can send her to my graveyard and make Lunalight Cat Dancer immune to battle destruction. Also she can attack every monster on the field twice. And when she does attack, she deals 100 points of damage.'

'And Yellow Marten has another effect. When it's sent to my graveyard by a card effect, she allows me to add Luna Light Perfume to my hand. And now I activate it, in order to revive Lunalight Blue Cat (Atk:1600). When Blue Cat is special summoned, she dances for joy and gives Cat Dancer double Attac (Atk:2500-5000). Now attack Etheric Mahes with Full Moon Mayhem.'

The first attack barely hit Mahes, but Maddy still took a major hit (Maddy LP:3200-3100-2100). 'And again!' 'Cute. Too bad that Mahes can't be destroyed in battle.' The attack from Cat Dancer hit Mahes square on, creating a strong wind from the impact, and Maddy flashed her eyes as her points dropped further and further (Maddy LP:2100-2000-1000).

'Now attack Zombiestein.' Shannon stood there and watched her points get reduced by the initial onslaught (Shannon LP:5200-5100-4600). 'And again!' 'I activate the ability of Zombiestein. By detaching it's final material and switching it to Defence mode (Def.:1000), I can negate Cat Dancer's effect and therefore stop it's attack.' 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Shannon: 'I draw. I switch Zombiestein back to Attack mode (Atk:4500). Now attack Maddy's Etheric Maahes.' The powerful shadowed punch hurtled towards Maahes, which stood firm, unlike it's controller (Maddy LP:1000-500). 'I will end my turn with a face-down.'

Maddy: 'I draw!' Maddy's eyes then glowed and she howled, the noise bursting several sets of eardrums in the front row. 'I activate the ability of Maahes. Once per turn, it can summon all of it's materials. I summon two Dream Wolves (Atk:1000)x2.'

'Now I activate the Spell card Level Tuning. This reduces the Level of both my wolves (Level:6-5). So, how about overlaying my two Level 5 monsters? You're about to both go to hell! I summon Number 24: Greedy Sarameya (Atk:2500).' At this point, Maddy had the chance to go after Celina. But her plans were elsewhere. 'I end my turn with two face-downs.'

Celina: 'Why didn't you attack me? And who cares? I draw! I activate Mystical Space Typhoon to destroy my own face-down. So now I can banish Lunalight Serenade Dance from my graveyard and use it's effect to summon Lunalight Blue Cat from my deck (Atk:1600). Now she doubles the attack of Cat Dancer (Atk:2500-5000). And by sending Blue Cat to the field, Cat Dancer's ability is set. Now finish Maddy off.'

This would prove to be a fatal time. Just not for Maddy. Eyes glowing red, a brand-new card was enacted. 'Go – Icarons' Destruction Ballad – Terpsichora!' Cat Dancer's eyes then glowed a dark red themselves. 'What are you doing to her? I've never seen her like this?' 'With Terpsichora, Cat Dancer has to continue attacking endlessly as long as I have a monster on the field.'

'But that will cause you to lose still, because Sarameya's in Attack mode.' 'While Maahes is on the field, you can only attack it. And when you try to burn my points, Sarameya reflects the damage back to you. Which means you're going down!' The combonation of cards resulted in Cat Dancer being stuck in an endless loop, forced to attack the invincible Maahes (Celina LP:4300-4200-4100-4000 etc.)

As the attacks continued, Maddy calmed down, and then slumped slowly to a knee. She covered her face, and started coughing. Literally seeing red in Maddy's hand, Astrid took drastic action, and dropkicked Shannon in the shoulder, causing the duel to be called off in a state of total disarray.

Not content with her work, Astrid stood in the way to protect her leader while she escaped, just as the official decision came through. 'The winner of this duel via disqualification is Spica. As per the rules of the Board of Directors however, your champion is still Maddy Robinson-Cummings.'

Before Astrid could leave, Spica grabbed a microphone. 'That stupid title isn't what I care about. What I care about is my friend, the one before she got manipulated and had her morals corrupted. And all I need is one chance to bust her out. One chance is all I want. One chance, at In the Shadows.' Astrid walked up to the half-Barian, and unusually, spoke perfectly clear English. 'What you faced there, was tame. What you face next time, that's real. Be careful what you wish for. Because you might.. just.. get it!'

Backstage

Clearly unwell, Maddy dashed to the nearest toilet, and then vomited violently, with the vomit coming steadily for over three minutes. As she stood up afterwards, she saw a small trickle of blood in the toilet bowl. After taking a moment to breathe, she stood up again, and wrestled a slim silver canister from her pocket, before a long spray into her mouth, before following that up with half a bottle of mouthwash and a dozen polo mints to avoid suspicion.

Sadly for Maddy, when she turned around, Astrid was stood there filming everything, making her panic. 'Astrid, you..you have to understand, you can't tell anyone about this, I can't have them knowing.' Her friend just shrugged her shoulders in disbelief. 'We can make a deal here. Tell me what's going on, and I'll delete the video.'

Not wanting to take the chance, Maddy confessed. 'I've been really bad with abdominal pain recently. Like proper bad. Not sleeping bad.' 'What's in the canister?' 'Nitrous Oxide – I needed pain relief but I've been on drugs before so I didn't want to be popping any pills. I looked it up and this is the next best thing.'

'How long?' '3 times a day, 9 days.' 'Why didn't you tell me? I could have helped!' Maddy then shook her head. 'Delete the video, then I'll talk.' In a somewhat surprising move, Astrid's response was to pass her phone over to the Young-Gun Champion. 'You do it. For your own sake.'

'Why doesn't your phone have a password?' 'Nothing to hide. Besides, you're the only other one who speaks the language.' After deleting the video, Maddy passed the phone back and sat down on a nearby bench. 'So why didn't you tell me?' 'It wasn't you, it was everybody else I didn't want hearing it. The last thing I need is people thinking I'm unfit to run the club. Unfit to hold this title. These have become my entire life, my identity. Without them, I'm back to square 1, just plain old Maddy, I don't want to be her again.'

Smartly, Astrid had a solution worked out in her head within seconds. 'You… do realise you could just write it into the constitution right?' What?' Brushing her sideswept fringe back, Astrid sat next to her friend. 'You could just say that you're taking time off, and when you come back, you'll still be boss. Everyone will see you as that. You have power, use it.'

'I guess I just don't want to upset anyone in the club. Like we lost enough with Claude and Akiza betraying us.' The latter struck a cord with Astrid. 'It's Akiza isn't it?' 'I'm wondering if I made the wrong decision with her. Like I didn't even give her a chance.' Astrid responded by slapping her friend across the face. 'Wake up! She tried to overthrow you, and she allowed Blair to be sexually assaulted! They all need you, but they need you, not this you.' The viking stormed off, leaving her president to lick her wounds.

The cameras then all cut to backstage, where Vector was laughing his head off. 'So Phil, the "almighty", the "champion", the "greatest ever" is challenging me? A little old nobody? Well have I got a surprise for him. Because you'll have nothing left after this, just like you tried to leave me!' Vector then continued his mad laughter.

The final duel of the tournament began with Marko walking out with his symphonic music (Ion by Apocalyptica). 'The following is the final of the Nordic Championships. Introducing first, from Viitasaari, Finland, this is Marko Anders.' The 20 year old Finn walked out and raised his hand to the crowd as he did, as they celebrated success for one of their own.

The crowd were still wild as Astrid walked out herself, completely alone. 'Introducing his opponent, from Svalbard, Norway, the Arctic Fox – Astrid Hofferson.' As she arrived at the dueling zone, she and Marko bowed to each other in respect, and then they separated to begin the final.

Nordic Championships Final: Astrid Hofferson LP:8000 vs. Marko Anders LP:8000

Turn 1: Astrid: 'I'll start. I draw. I set a monster and end my turn with two face-downs.'

Marko: 'It's my turn. I'll summon Gearfried, the Red-Eyes Iron Knight (Atk:1800). Attack.' Gearfried's sword attack hurtled towards the hidden monster, but the result wasn't what the Finn was hoping for (Garmr of the Nordic Beasts Def.:1900, Marko LP:8000-7900). 'When a Level 4 or lower monster battles Garmr, it's sent back to the hand.' 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Astrid: 'I draw. I summon Valkyrie Dritte (Atk:1000). When I summon her, she adds a Valkyrie card direct to my hand. I choose Valkyrie Chariot. Dritte, attack directly.' Dritte rode in on her pale white horse, slashing the air with her sword (Marko LP:7900-6900). 'I activate Shard of Greed, end my turn with a face-down.'

Marko: 'I draw. I'll summon Gearfried, the Red-Eyes Knight (Atk:1800). And I'll equip him with Mage Power, so he gains 500 Attack. Except he destroys all cards eqipped to him, and then destroys one card on your field. The face-down is chosen.' As the face-down was destroyed, Astrid offered some advice.

'Slow down Marko. Nobody understands you when you speak quick. Hidas puhe, en ymmärrä, kun puhut nopeasti. Ei tarvitse olla hermostunut.' 'Ok.' She then continued with the duel. 'Also, you just destroyed Loge's Flame. I summon a stronger Valkyrie from my deck. Valkyrie Erda (Atk:2000).'

This time though, Marko was prepared. 'I send Red-Eyes Gearfried to my burial ground and summon Red-Eyes Alternative Black Dragon (Atk:2400). Alternative attack Erda.' 'I activate the effect of Swift Scarecrow in my hand. I discard, it blocks an attack.' 'I end my turn with face-down.'

Astrid: 'I draw. I activate Valkyrie's Embrace. I switch Valkyrie Dritte to Defence mode (Def.:1600), and banish your Dragon.' Dritte dismounted her horse, and flew gracefully to the Dragon, causing it to dissipate into light. Despite the odds, Marko's facial reaction barely changed, which Astrid seemed to appreciate, as she started to loosen up and enjoy herself. 'Erda, charge!' The strong Valkyrie rode in, and released a powerful light from her bronzed shield, dropping his points (Marko LP:6900-4900). 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Marko: 'Draw. Activate Red-Eyes Insight.' 'So you've learned some new tricks?' 'I send Meteor Dragon Red-Eyes Impact to the burial ground, add Red-Eyes Fusion to my hand. Now I activate Red-Eyes Fusion. Send from my deck to the graveyard, Red-Eyes Black Dragon and Prime Material Dragon to summon Meteor Black Comet Dragon (Atk:3500).'

'Comer Dragon's effect activates. I send Red-Eyes Black Metal Dragon to deal half it's Attack as damage.' The flame attack scorched the battlefield, and took some of Astrid's points away (Astrid LP:8000-6600). Now activate Inferno Fire Blast.' This move really took Astrid by surprise. 'I deal damage equal to the Attack of one Red-Eyes Black Dragon on the field. Red-Eyes Fusion makes it so Comet Dragon is also Black Dragon.' Astrid finally started to look worried, as one Spell card almost took over half of her remaining health (Astrid LP:6600-3100).

'I still have an attack. Attack Valkyrie Erda, Comet Cascade!' 'Activate my face-down Escape Lure. Now you have to attack Valkyrie Dritte.' The flaming assault rushed towards Erda, only for her weaker counterpart to ride into the flames and take the hit. 'I end my turn with one face-down.'

Astrid: 'Draw. Activate Shard of Greed. I send it to the grave, draw 2 cards. Now activate Pot of Desires. Banish 10 cards from my deck face-down, then I draw 2. I summon Dverg of the Nordic Alfar (Atk:100). When he's summoned I can summon another Nordic monster. Like Vanadis of the Nordic Ascendant (Atk:1200).'

'Vanadis, show your special trick. She can send a Nordic monster from my deck to my graveyard, and copy it's Level. I choose Dverg of the Nordic Alfar (Level:4-1). Now Level 1 Vanadis, combine with Level 1 Dverg and Level 8 Valkryie Erda! Odin, himmelens hersker, stiger ned og gjør din guddommelige styrke! Synkron Tikalle! Gå ned fra den hellige skyen, Odin, Aesirs far (Atk:4000).'

'I activate Odin's abilit.y So now you can't touch him with card effects. Odin, attack with Sacred Scepter Blast.' Odin shot a bright piercing light out at Comet Dragon, destroying it (Marko LP:4900-4400). 'When Meteor Comet Black Dragon is destroyed, I summon Red-Eyes from my graveyard (Atk:2400).' 'I'll end my turn with a face-down.'

Marko: 'Draw. I activate Inferno Fire Blast.' 'I'll counter with Cursed Seal of the Forbidden Spell. It costs me Ride of the Valkyries from my hand, but now your Spell is negated. And you can't activate it for the rest of the duel.' With his main ways of dealing damage reducing, Marko was forced to make different plans.

'I activate Cards of the Red Stone. I discard Red-Eyes Alternative Black Dragon, draw 2 cards, send Red-Eyes Black Dragon to my burial ground. Now activate face-down Red-Eyes Spirit, to revive Black Dragon (Atk:2400). Overlay my two Level 7s, I summon Red-Eyes Flare Metal Dragon (Atk:2800). Now activate Swords of Revealing Light, block attacks for 3 turns. I end my turn.'

Astrid: 'I draw. I activate Terraforming, to add a Field Spell to my hand.' 'And you take 500 damage from Flare Metal Dragon (Astrid LP:3100-2600). Now I activate my Field spell – Mists of Valhalla.' Magical mist surrounded the battlefield, as the Northern Lights shimmered above.

'500 more damage!' 'Not this time. The effect of Mists of Valhalla prevents me from taking any Effect Damage. And once per turn, if I control a Nordic or Valkyrie monster, I can draw a card. My combo is set! Because I control an Aesir monster, I can summon Jormundgardr the Nordic Serpent to your field (Def.:3000).'

'Why?' 'When Jormungardr is switched into Attack mode, you take 3000 damage. Also because I have an Aesir monster, I also summon Fenrir the Nordic Wolf to your field (Atk:4000). I end my turn with a face-down.'

Marko: 'I draw. I'll attack Odin with Fenrir.' 'At the start of your battle phase, all your monsters are switched to Attack mode.' As Jormungardr switched positions (Atk:3000), it coiled around Marko and drained his Life points (Marko LP:4400-1400). I also activate Negate Attack, to end the Battle phase. And thanks to Mists of Valhalla, you can't stop me.' 'I end my turn.'

Astrid: 'I draw! I activate Odin's ability to grant it immunity to card effects. And now Burden of the Mighty. This is a card which drains monsters with Levels of 100 Attack per Level (Fenrir Atk:4000-3000, Jormungardr Atk:3000-2200).' With shark-like eyes, she declared an attack. Polargud Odin, la din uendelige raseri ned og bringe det som virkelig er vårt tilbake til hallene i Valhalla! Hellig septer-skråstrek!' Odin reigned down his holy fury onto the endless serpent, bringing Astrid her first professional title (Marko LP:1400-0).

With the duel over, a disappointed Marko took the loss like a champion, and fist-bumped his training partner. As this happened, the enormity of a first pro title started to dawn on her, as emotion was clear in her face. Maddy then ran down, carrying the flag of Norway, which she passed to Astrid after hugging her. Meanwhile, Marko was being interviewed in front of his home crowd.

'Marko Anders, must feel good to reach a final here.' 'Yes, I would have love to win, but if I am to lose, Astrid is who I lose to.' 'You two have a special relationship don't you?' 'Yes. We very special, she is good, good good friend to me. She is very very good.' 'This run Marko earns you €90,000. What does that kind of money mean to you?' Marko seemed amazed by the amount he'd earned. 'That money change my life. I have never had that much before. Thank you.'

The interview then went to a still elated Astrid, who by now had been joined by Lydia and Freja as well. 'Over 3 years and finally you win one. Took long enough didn't it?' 'I… I occasionally wondered if it wasn't going to be. But I was in a situation where I have to win. And I did.'

'This qualifies you for the Super 8s of the Baltic Championships, and earns you your first professional title. Must mean everything.' 'And more.' She then let her hair loose, took the microphone, and starting barking at the crowd, her voice still as soft as caramel but now with the kick of a jalapeno.

'Her er jeg, jeg er seierende blant de fiendtlige kroppene mine. Datteren til Thor, en ånd av en mester kriger. Datteren til Sif, gullblond og en rettferdig ånd. Hører du det? Hører du lynet? Thor kommer! Odin kommer! Nordstjernes guder stiger ned! Viking Power! (Here I am, I am victorious among my hostile bodies.' (The daughter of Thor, the spirit of a master warrior. The daughter of Sif, golden blonde and a righteous spirit. Do you hear it? Do you hear lightning? Thor is coming! Odin is coming! The gods of the north star descend! Viking Power!')

The trophy, which consisted of of an uncolored Nordic Cross wrapped around an opulent glass shield. 'Your Nordic Champion – Astrid Hofferson.' Astrid lifted her trophy in the air, and after the photos, started an "Alt for Norge" (All for Norway) chant with Maddy and the crowd.

Next time: The advanced students got a nice surprise, Blair gets a mission, and Hannah contnues to be terrorised in Renegades: A New Dawn Chapter XXVII: A New Blair-ra