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.

28. Cloak-and-Dagger

Renegades: A New Dawn

Chapter XXVIII: Cloak and Dagger Backstabber

WDC World Tour: Glasgow card:

Last Chance Duel for the WDC Tag-Team Championships: The Regiment (Kari Tsukumo and Radley) vs. (c) Renegades (Phil Robinson and Rio Kastle)

Vector vs. Marko Anders

Lt. Claude W. Duane vs. Johnny McGregor

Akiza Izinski vs. Eagle Adams

WDC Championship Top Contender's Duel: ? vs. ?

Non-Title Champion vs. Champion: Rhydian Morris vs. Maddy Smith

With a drive up to Glasgow in the makings, Rio chose to get a little bit of training in at the arena before they set off. Meanwhile, Blair had decided to stay back, concerning Hannah. 'Are you sure you're ok?' She smiled politely. 'I promise I'm fine. I just want to take advantage of the base being quiet. I kind of need some time to myself. When I was in Michigan, I realised that before I do anything else with my life, I need to learn to love myself again. So I'm hoping I can do that.'

Hannah then hugged her. 'If you need anybody to talk to, then you know exactly where we are.' 'Yeah, up in Glasgow.' The two of them laughed, and the Michigan native smiled again. 'Genuinely though, thank you. For always being there for me and for being my friend when I needed it most.'

'You don't need to thank me for that Blair. You know I would have done it without any thanks, because you needed it. Now you enjoy the quiet.' 'I will thanks. Keep an eye on Rio for me, make sure she doesn't overdo it.' 'This is Rio we're talking about. Give her an inch' 'And she'll take the whole 9 yards.' 'Exactly.'

Meanwhile, Phil was dressed in a black leather jacket with the collar upturned, resembling Arnie from the 80s film Christine, while wearing a pink and black headband posted directly from the states by Ally. He was watching Rio train, and silently satisfied at what he was witnessing.

In Glasgow

As the club arrived, most of them started looking around the area. But Phil went straight to the arena, due to having some "business" to take care of, and Sakura (taking advantage of the local nature of the event). As they entered the arena, they encountered Yusei, who had stayed on in the UK longer than anticipated.

'How you doing Phil?' 'Not bad today. Just had a few things to take care of.' 'Doesn't surprise me.' 'I just want to make sure the no rematch clause in the tag title duel is still very much intact. Also I'm hoping to nip out later to buy Hannah some flowers – our anniversary is coming up fairly soon and I don't want to not get her anything.'

Yusei just smiled at this. 'Ever the romantic.' 'I try. What brings you here anyway?' 'Between friends… we are friends aren't we? Just never sure with your group.' Phil smiled himself. 'I suppose you could consider us friends.' 'I'm here to enquire about returning to the circuit. Also I'm doing commentary with Kalin – he just doesn't know it yet.'

'Gives TJ a night off. First one he's had in about 3 years.' 'Exactly. You got a nickname?' 'Too many. Northern Nightmare, Mr. Nasty, the Godfather, Technical Savage, and they're just the ones I can repeat here.' 'Got it.' Yusei then walked away, laughing to himself. 'So you and Yusei are friends?'

'We've always got along pretty well. He's never not been my friend really.' Eager to learn more, Sakura pressed the founder. 'So what's his relationship with Birchall like?' 'I don't recall them ever speaking. Yusei always does whatever he does and people tend to just leave him alone for the most part.'

Shortly afterwards, Sakura turned to Phil. 'I'm just going to get a bottle of water.' 'There's vending machines dotted around the arena.' 'Cheers.' Sakura then walked off, and Phil looked down at his phone for a moment. Suddenly there was a massive thud, and everything went black.

40 minutes later

As the club got to the arena, they were confronted by Kieran. 'You all stay away from the main event.' Astrid then bullishly squared up to him. 'Why would we interfere? Rhydian's a joke anyway. And Maddy's going to hit him so hard that he won't even know which way is up.'

Their little confrontation was interrupted by Michael walking past. 'Oh so you two want to go at it do you?' Both nodded their heads. 'Fine – you two can duel later today. And the winner will be top contender to the WDC Championship in China.' Both of them looked enthused by this news, and Kieran walked by, revealing Sakura behind him, looking concerned, which Maddy noticed immediately.

'Hey, what's up?' 'It's Phil – can't find him. We split up over half an hour ago, he was going to Michael's office to sort out some paperwork regarding the tag title duel, and I went to grab a bottle of water. I was gone less than 5 minutes and now I can't find him. Nobody's seen him apparently.'

Maddy then started looking around, and came up with an idea. 'We split up and look for him – find him quicker that way.' As everyone went off in different directions, Sakura stuck with Maddy. 'So what happened?' 'I was only gone about 5 minutes. I would have been quicker but the first vending machine I found wasn't working. It wasn't far from here that we split.'

The two of them then continued to look, until Maddy saw a light-switch and had an idea. 'Sak, turn the lights off.' 'Why?' 'I'll show you why. Just do it.' Shrugging her shoulders, Sakura duly switched all the lights off, and Maddy got on the ground, starting to use Eolas. Shortly afterwards, she had an answer.

'Three corridors down is where he was not long ago. Talking to Kalin.' 'What was that you just used?' 'Eolas. In the old language it means Information. You use your surroundings to connect to the natural world and see what's around you. With practice and focus, you can even see a short time into the past.'

'And the light-switches?' 'Static electricity ruins the technique – gives terrible migranes instead.' The two of them then walked over towards their destination. But neither of them were prepared for what they saw.

As they arrived, they saw Phil lay flat on the ground, bleeding from the front of the head, blood all the way down his face. Rob was stood above him with his metal fist dripping crimson, and he was laying in more and more punches, shouting at Phil. 'This is all her fault! Soon you'll be ugly! Now she won't want you either!'

As he did this, security ran over, and pulled him away before either Maddy or Sakura could respond. With him securely taken away, Maddy checked on him. 'Dad, can you hear me?' His response was confused and gargled. Meanwhile, Sakura got on the walkie-talkie and contacted everyone else. 'Club assemble, we've found Phil and he's in a bad way. Rob's beaten him badly.'

A couple of minutes later, everyone else arrived and found Phil sat up against a wall, his face just a river of blood. As Hannah finally arrived, Maddy tried to keep her away. 'Please, you don't want to see him like this.' 'He's alive though.' 'Oh yeah he's alive. But he's in a right state.'

Having regained consciousness, Phil somehow stumbled back to his feet as Michael passed, and he was very sympathetic. 'Oh dear, that looks dreadful. There's no way you're duelling in that state. I suppose you'd better hand over the titles since there's no substitutes allowed.'

Rio then stood up to him. 'You're not getting your dirty hands on our titles that easy. You want a tag title duel? Well I'll defend them myself! 1-2, I'll take them both on!' Michael laughed, and left. 'Your funeral.'

15 minutes later

As the blood was wiped away, Phil was starting to be able to talk as Hannah came back in with a drink for him. 'How is he Sakura?' 'All things considered, he's really not bad. Just glued his head back together – it was tricky because the wound was large.' 'And how is he in himself?' 'He's complaining of vertigo and he seems to think it's Monday when in fact it's Thursday. Other than that he's ok.'

She then went up to him, as he lay on a bed. 'Phil, remember me?' He just smiled at her. 'You're unforgettable.' 'How are you feeling?' 'Feels like I had my head caved in.' 'How much do you remember?' He paused for a moment to sit up, and then started to tell a tale.

'I was just exiting the office after talking to Michael, and I felt someone breathing down my neck, I turned around and was decked by a metal fist. Beyond that, I just remember holding my hands up, he was shouting something but I didn't hear him. I have to go out there for Rio.'

'No way on this planet are you going out there. I'm not letting you out of my sight.' Maddy then pulled Hannah to one side. 'What is it?' 'When Rob was attacking Dad, he was shouting some shit about making him ugly so you'll no longer want Dad.' Hannah was in total disbelief at this. 'Why can't people just be happy for us? It took us two decades.'

Phil then went to leave, but Sakura stopped him. 'I don't think you realise how serious this situation is. I can't clear you to leave this room until I know you don't have a fractured skull. And even if you haven't, you're clearly concussed.' 'What about the tag titles?' 'Rio's defending them alone. Michael won't let any of us sub for you.'

In the duel arena

The mysterious grey-haired man from the previous couple of tournaments opened up, walking out alongside a mountain of a man, standing close to 7 feet, with red face-paint around his eyes and in lines down his face, his purple Mohawk streaming down into more free-flowing hair ending halfway down his back.

'Ladies and Gentlemen, my name is Declan Akaba. I am the president of the Leo Federation of Duelling, and we are here because we are launching a hostile takeover of the Pegasus World Duelling Corporation. For years we have lived in the shadows. For years we have been the lesser. But no more. Because the only way professional duelling can thrive is with one body. Let that be us.'

As fans watched on in stunned silence, Declan turned to the small man stood beside him. 'This is the Mouth of the Century, Nico Smiley.' Nico then laughed and stared up at his mountain, his yellow and black striped suit giving people a headache. 'Let me introduce our champion now. Hailing from Kabukicho, Tokyo, Japan, our LFD Triple Crown Champion, The Sledgehammer!' Sledgehammer raised his arm, as his opponent came out.

'Introducing his opponent, from The Bowery, New York, David Marshall.' Marshall walked down fearlessly and instantly got in the face of Declan, before squaring up to Sledgehammer. Fairly quickly a referee arrived, and the duel began, with Nico translating Sledgehammer's moves due to the towering duellist speaking little English.

The Sledgehammer LP:4000 vs. David Marshall LP:4000

Turn 1: Sledgehammer: 'Sledgehammer draw!' His first move was then translated by Nico. 'Sledgehammer activates the Spell card Cubic Dharma. Once per turn, Sledgehammer can discard a Cubic monster to draw a card. Next he summons Vijam the Cubic Seed (Atk:0). One face-down ends his turn.'

David: 'I'm not scared of you. I summon Archfiend Heiress (Atk:1000). Attack Vijam.' 'When Cubic Dharma is on the field, Sledgehammer will not be touched by the damage from your attack.' Heiress scratched Vijam with long nails, but Vijam reformed in Sledgehammer's back-row.

'When Vijam battles, it can place itself in the Spell and Trap card zone. And your monster gains a Cubic Counter, stopping it from either attacking or using any of it's effects.' 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Sledgehammer: 'Sledgehammer draw!' 'The Sledgehammer is using the effect of Vijam the Cubic Seed. When it is in the Spell and Trap zone, Vijam summons itself to the field (Atk:0). And now Sledgehammer activates the Spell known as Inferno Reckless Summon. This turns one Cubic Seed into three Cubic Seeds (Atk:0)x2. In exchange, you now get to summon duplicates of your monster.'

'Fine – I summon two more Archfiend Heiresses (Atk:1000)x2.' Sledgehammer then roared, readying for his big move. 'And now for the most famous move in all of professional duelling! Sledgehammer will release three Cubic Seeds in order to summon out Buster Gundil the Cubic Behemoth! (Atk:0).'

Confused, Marshall spoke in total indignance. 'Don't see the big deal. Just a pile of floating rocks innit?' 'A pile of rocks? We'll see what you think of a pile of rocks after it gains 3000 Attack through it's own effect (Atk:3000). And it can make three attacks as well.' Buster Gundil's single eye locked onto it's targets, and then shot a devastating laser which skimmed across all three monsters, executing them and knocking David to the ground (David LP:4000-0).

After the duel, the new invader stood hard on Marshall's sternum as he cringed in pain. Declan had left as soon as the duel ended, so Nico presented his monster, as Birchall walked out. The two men stared down for a moment, before James turned and nailed David with a baseball bat as he tried to stand up, before Martin held Marshall's arm in a hammerlock, allowing the "Renegade Killa" to smash his arm with the bat, breaking his arm.

James then knelt down and got in the face of his former disciple. 'Nobody walks away from me and gets away with it. Next time it will be your neck!' While James walked away, medics checked on Marshall.

Backstage

Phil was sat in a chair when Sakura came back with some relieving news for he and his wife. 'Got your CT back.' 'And?' 'You don't have any major injuries. It looks like you've got away with that wound.' Hannah then made her husband laugh. 'Always said you had a hard head.'

Phil then heard his phone ring. 'Hannah, could you pass that to me please?' 'Sure. It's Blair.' As he answered it, a shout came from the other end. 'Is he ok?' 'Don't worry Blair, I'm still here.' 'Just saw what happened.' 'The blood made it look worse than it was – just cuts and bruises here. Might be slightly concussed as well.'

'What's happening with the tag titles?' 'Rio's defending them.' At this point, Phil threw up into a cardboard bowl, so Hannah took the phone. 'Sorry, he's just being given a full examination to make sure nothing else is going on. Rio's defending them alone because she's not allowed a replacement.'

'So much for not pushing her too hard.' 'She won't be alone out there. I'll make sure of that. But he's fine, that's the important thing.' 'Thank you.' 'Don't thank me – if I hadn't have split away from him it wouldn't have happened. Just concentrate on yourself.' 'Thanks.' Hannah put the phone down, and left to accompany Rio.

In the duelling zone

First out for the tag title duel were the challengers, with Claude and Randsborg accompanying. Hassleberry was missing due to "groinal injuries" suffered at the axe of Astrid in Finland. Kari and Radley were wearing orange and black shirts respectively, with them wearing matching jackets to hold off the chill.

'The following duel is a Last Chance duel for the WDC Tag-Team Championships. Introducing the challengers, they are the team of Privates Kari Tsukumo and Radley, the Regiment.' Yusei gave the low-down on them, because Kalin was steaming over Rio having to defend the titles alone.

'Kari and Radley have proven they work well as a team, and are not to be underestimated. But will they struggle with the pressure of this last-chance duel? Kari calls her deck "better than Utopia", and has a wide variety of Xyz monsters to deal with various boards, while Radley's Training Brotherhood deck is strong and simple, dealing great damage with every blow.'

As the champions' music started up, Rio walked out, with Kelly and Hannah by her side. 'Introducing their opponent, representing the Renegades, from Twin Falls Idaho, Cold-Blooded Rio Kastle.' Wearing her injured partner's headband, Rio valiantly made her way down as Kalin calmed himself down enough to speak.

'If you've never seen Rio duel before then you're in for an experience, as she is one of the most dangerous opponents one could face. A formerly defensive duelist, her Frostburn deck turns the tables 180 on that idea and has proven capable of destroying opponents. But will she be able to cope with this impossible situation she's been left in?'

In the zone, Radley laughed at the opposition, before his tag-team partner got his concentration back on track with a well-timed reminder. Meanwhile, Rio's crutches unfolded into her duel disk, before taking both titles from her crutches.

Last Chance Handicap Duel for the WDC Tag-Team Championships: The Regiment (Kari Tsukumo/Radley LP:8000 vs. (c) Rio Kastle LP:8000

Turn 1: Rio: 'As I'm alone, I'll lead off. I draw. I activate the Field spell Aqua Gate.' A pair of large golden gates appeared with their own lake, setting the stage with Rio and the challengers on opposite platforms. 'I'll summon Graydle Eagle (Atk:1500), and end my turn with three face-downs.'

Kari: 'I draw. I activate Gagaga Academy Emergency Network. Because only you control a monster, I can summon a Gagaga monster from my deck. I choose Gagaga Mancer (Atk:100). Next I summon Gagaga Sister (Atk:200). And her ability just allows me to combine the Levels of my monsters. It's a little bit like your Tannhauser Gate except way cooler (Level:6)x2.'

'Now I'll overlay my two Level 6 monsters to build the overlay network, and Xyz summon Norito the Moral Leader (Atk:2600). Attack Graydle Eagle.' Rio visibly considered using an effect, but opted not to and instead to take the hit from Norito's magical rod (Rio LP:8000-6900).

'When Graydle Eagle is destroyed by an opposing monster, I can take control of it.' Eagle splashed Norito with water as it was destroyed, and the water turned dark, moving Norito to Rio's field. 'I end my turn with two face-downs.'

Rio: 'I draw. I summon Aurora Wing (Atk:1200). Norito, attack directly!' 'When you attack directly, I can summon Gagaga Gardna from my hand (Def.:2000).' 'I don't care! Attack!' 'When Gardna is subject to attack, I can discard one card to protect it from the battle.' Norito's attack fired towards the Warrior, who held up his shield to protect himself. 'I end my turn.'

Radley: 'I draw.' Kari then enacted a dangerous plan. 'I activate my face-down Interdimensional Matter Transporter. This banishes Norito until the End phase.' 'I activate the effect of Norito. It can negate and destroy your Trap at the cost of an Xyz material.' With the Trap destroyed, Radley saw the opportunity opened up for him.

'I activate the Spell card Double Summon. This allows me an extra Normal summon this turn. I also activate a Field spell. Behold – Fire Fortress atop Liang Peak.' The mountainous fortress on the challengers' field was a stark contrast to the gentle lowlands of Rio's Field spell, which was also still active. 'I summon Brotherhood of the Fire Fist – Buffalo and Bear (Atk:1600)x2.'

'That move just there summoned two Fire Fists, so my Field spell gains two counters (FFC:2). I'll also activate Fire Formation – Yoko. By discarding the last card from my hand, I can destroy Norito.' With Norito's ability working only once in a turn, it was defenseless for a second assault, Yoko frying it. 'Also my monsters gain 100 Attack (Atk:1600-1700)x2.'

Radley then almost gave a smile. 'I'll switch Gagaga Gardna to Attack mode (Atk:1500). Gardna, attack Aurora Wing.' Rio still had a plan though. 'I activate the effect of Aqua Gate.' Aqua Gate created a whirlpool, which swallowed up Gardna's attack instantly. 'Douche.' 'Aqua Gate protects me from attacks once for every card I have face-down in my back-row. So by all means keep attacking.' 'I end my turn.'

Rio: 'I draw. I summon Blizzard Falcon (Atk:1500).' 'We're not scared of a little damage.' Rio then smiled. 'I know. But that's not what I'm doing. I activate R: Merge. Because I control two monsters of the same type and attribute, this allows me to combine their Levels. All I have to do is send one of my face-downs to the graveyard (Level:4-8)x2.'

Rio's eyes then narrowed, and her breath started slowing. 'I overlay my two Level 8 monsters to build the overlay network! Let the evil waters wash over your soul, and the evil one will grant you his power, because we are the Renegades and we never die. I Xyz summon Number 110: Ragnar, the Sea Ghost (Atk:2400).'

The summon made Kari nervous, as all which could be seen of the monster was a small steel grate on the ground. 'Where is it?' 'You're about to find out. Ragnar, attack Brotherhood of the Fire Fist – Bear with Submerged Suffocater.' The attack name proved to be very accurate, as the ghost dragged Bear down into the ground, suffocating it as it did (Regiment LP:8000-7100).

Radley was furious at this. 'Why attack my monster?' 'Simple – you called me a douche earlier. Oh, I forgot to mention one little thing – while it has materials, you can't target Ragnar for attacks or effects. I end my turn' The meathead Radley then turned to his partner confused. 'So how do we know if it's got materials?' 'Try counting. It's got two at the moment.' 'Oh ok. That makes sense.' Kari then despaired. 'And I thought she was stupid.' 'I heard that you arsehole.'

Upon hearing this language, Hannah and Kelly looked around at each other. 'Where did she learn that language?' 'She hangs around with my husband – if anything it's a miracle she's not started using that language before now.' 'That bad?' 'Depends if you annoy him enough.'

'Does he swear at you?' 'Occasionally. He'd rather tomb me in bubble wrap though. Way overprotective. Understand why, but it does get frustrating at times. Just hope Rio wins, otherwise he'll be devastated.' 'They both will.'

Kari: 'I hope you enjoyed attacking, because it's the last time you're going to touch us. I draw. I'm going to overlay the two Level 4 monsters on our field in order to summon Number 39 – Utopia (Atk:2500). And I'll equip it with the ZW – Sleipnir Mail from my hand.' The Level 4 steed galloped onto the field and Utopia started riding on it's back. 'This gives Utopia 1000 Attack, and brings it back if it should ever be destroyed (Atk:2500-3500). I end my turn with my face-down.'

Rio: 'I draw. I'll set a monster and then end my turn.'

Radley: 'I draw. I activate the Equip spell card Noble Arms – Clarent, equipping to Utopia. With this sword Utopia gains 500 Attack (Atk:3500-4000).' 'You still can't attack Ragnar.' 'Why would I attack Ragnar when I can strike you directly thanks to the equip spell? All I have to do is pay 500 Life points (Regiment LP:7100-6600). Rising Sun Noble Slash!'

As the attack came in towards Rio, she went to try and defend herself, but Radley threw an aerosol can at her crutch, causing it to give way as she got nailed by the attack, and she crumpled hard to the ground face-first (Rio LP:6900-2900).

Hannah ran over to Rio seeing this, but she stood straight back up, scratches over her face and bleeding from her mouth. 'Think I lost a tooth.' Radley then started yelling at her. 'That's what you get for being weak! You can't even stand! Just give us the titles now!' 'No.' 'You're too stupid! I end my turn.'

Rio then smiled. 'What are you smiling for?' 'It's… been a while. Since I… felt… that buzz. Why would I give up now?' 'Because you can't win.' 'Can't I? Just watch me! Because I'm not afraid anymore.'

Rio: 'I draw. I summon Heraldic Beast Twin-Headed Eagle (Atk:1200). I overlay my two Level 4 monsters to build the overlay network and Xyz summon Ice Beast Zerofyne (Atk:2000).' 'What a pest.' 'And I'll activate the effect of Number 110. When I summon another Water Xyz monster, I can add a Rank-up Magic card from my deck to my hand.'

'Now I'll activate the effect of Zerofyne. This negates the effects of every card on your field, and Zerofyne gains 300 Attack for every card on the field. Perfect Freeze.' Zerofyne flew up overhead, and sprinkled snow across the battlefield, icing up every card on the Regiment's side (Zerofyne Atk:2000-3800).

Both Regiment members were clearly unnerved by this boost, but still comfortable enough. 'Bring it on.' 'You want to be careful about who you challenge. I activate Rank-up Magic Barian's Force! This allows me to rebuild the overlay network with Rank 8 Ragnar the Sea Ghost. Chaos Xyz Evolution!'

With the power surging through the network, Rio's eyes glowed a bright green. 'Barian's power, born of chaos, bow down to your new masters. When the evil waters cascade like waterfalls, the dark one was sealed away for eternity. Let him be revived, for the Renegade revolution will never die! I Xyz summon Chaos Number 110 – break the seal, Ragnar the Sealed (Atk:3050).'

'Barian's Force has an additional effect to steal a material from Utopia. Chaos Drain.' As Ragnar took the material (Materials:3-4), Utopia was more vulnerable. 'When Ragnar is summoned, his ability banishes one card from your field. I choose your Noble Arms – Clarent.' As the bigger, darker-barred grate surfaced from the Aqua Gate, Ragnar leap out with his slender blue and black body, grabbed Clarent, and vanished back into the grate with it (Utopia Atk:4000-3500).

'Nice trick. What else can it do – backflips?' 'That and plenty more. Zerofyne, attack Utopia with Icicle Storm.' 'I activate the effect of Utopia. By detaching it's only Xyz material, I can negate your attack. Lightwing Shield.' Utopia's shield was strong enough to even hold off the vicious storm from the ice maiden.

'I use the ability of Ragnar. During the battle phase, it can detach a material to attack directly. Go get 'em with Wave Shock!' 'I activate my face-down The Door of Destiny. Because you're attacking directly this negates your attack. Then the Door is summoned as a monster (Def.:0).' Frustrated at the lack of any breakthrough, Rio ended her turn.

Radley: 'My turn. I summon Brotherhood of the Fire Fist – Elephant (Atk:1000, FFC:3). Now by sending Fire Formation – Yoko to my graveyard, Elephant can summon this from my hand. It's Brotherhood of the Fire Fist – Boar (Atk:1100, FFC:4). I tune Level 4 Boar to Level 4 Elephant now in order to summon Brotherhood of the Fire Fist – Kirin (Def.:2800, FFC:5).'

'When Kirin is summoned, he allows me to set a Fire Formation from my deck. I'll choose Fire Formation - Ingen. I end my turn with a face-down (Zerofyne Atk:3800-2000).'

Rio: 'I draw. I'll set a card and then end my turn.' 'Lost your bottle.' Rio didn't respond to this comment, her cagey attitude understandable in the situation she found herself mired in.

Kari: 'I draw. I activate Xyz Shift. This card allows me to tribute Utopia in order to summon a different Rank 4 monster from my Extra deck. I choose Utopia Double (Def.:2500). Now I activate Utopia Double's effect. It allows me to add Double or Nothing from my deck to my hand, and then summon a different Utopia monster using Double as material. Appear, Number 99 – Utopic Dragon (Atk:4000).'

'You know the best thing about Utopia Double's effect?' Sarcastically, Rio gave the same response as Kari had earlier. 'It can do backflips?' 'Not quite. But it does double the Attack of the monster summoned (Atk:4000-8000).' Seeing this number, Rio started to get overawed.

'Holy… cow.' 'Utopic Dragon, attack Ice Beast Zerofyne with Rising Sun Shred!' 'I'm not going down without a fight. I activate Aqua Gate to stop your attack.' As the water rose up, Kari refused to be denied. 'I activate Double or Nothing! This doubles the attack of Utopic Dragon and allows it to attack again! (Atk:8000-16000).'

By now Kari was starting to get desperate. 'Utopic Dragon, ANNIHILATE HER WITH RISING SUN DOUBLE SHREDDER!' 'Don't you learn? I activate Aqua Gate again, because I have two face-downs.' For the second time, the water rose up and denied Utopic Dragon, despite the incredible power of it's blast.

'You know what they say – if at first you don't succeed, keep hammering away! I activate another Double or Nothing! This doubles the attack of Utopic Dragon again and gives it one more attack (Atk:16000-32000). This time, you're done for good. Utopic Dragon, KILL! RISING SUN ULTIMATE SHREDDER!'

This time, the attack wasn't hampered by a gate and came hurtling towards Rio. As water rose up from the impact, Radley went to grab one of the titles, but then he heard Kari exclaim. 'No way! You were through!' (Rio LP:2900). 'You forgot that just because I used Aqua Gate, doesn't mean I can't use my face-downs. One of them is a card called Zeus' Breath. This stops your attack, and now you lose 800 Life points for each Water monster I control.'

A fierce wave rose up, and crashed into Kari and Radley at top speed, narrowing the gap (Regiment LP:6600-5000). Radley then looked accusingly at Claude. 'You said this would be easy.' Claude himself was totally dumbstruck. 'This isn't the same Rio I knew.' Rio then offered a startling rebuttal.

'The Rio you knew died. When I came out of hospital I turned myself into a brand new me. If you want to take these titles, good luck, because I would die to defend them. Every day is a day I didn't deserve. The reaper just hasn't caught me yet.' At this moment, the entire Glasgow card started vociferously chanting for Rio to win.

Kari however, wasn't impressed. 'You can get cocky. Once per turn, Utopic Dragon can revive a Number monster from my graveyard. I summon Number 39 – Utopia (Atk:2500). Next I'm going to turn it into a Chaos monster. Chaos Xyz Evolution! I summon Number 39 – Utopia Ray (Atk:2500).'

'And now I'll rank it up. Rank-up Xyz Evolution! This is why you can't beat us – we have too many moves for you to cope with. I Xyz summon Number 39 – Utopia the Lightning (Atk:2500). I end my turn.'

Rio: 'I'll never give up! I draw.' Assessing the field, Rio made a decision on where to go next. 'All in. I activate Gift of the Martyr. With this, I tribute Zerofyne and then her Attack points are added to Ragnar's (Atk:3050-5050). And by detaching a material, Ragnar the Sealed can attack directly. Attack with Wave Shock!'

Ragnar surged out of his prison, and shot electrically-changed waves at both Rio's opponents. Smoke rose up as this happened, but Rio didn't take her eyes off of them for a second. When it cleared, both Kari and Radley had survived, which Rio seemed surprisingly accepting of (Regiment LP:5000-4950).

Radley then showed how they survived. 'I activated my face-down Magical Shrine Art. It forced you to take on Utopia the Lightning. And by detaching both of it's materials, Utopia the Lightning doubled it's Attack.' 'I kinda expected something like that. I end my turn with a face-down.'

Kari: 'I draw. I activate Mirage of Nightmare. Then I'll activate Nightmare's Steelcage.' As she did, a large cage dropped down on top of Rio and her field, fencing them in. 'Now nobody can attack for two of your turns. I end my turn.'

Rio: 'I draw.' 'I activate the effect of Mirage of Nightmare. During your Standby phase, I draw four cards.' 'Even if I can't attack, I can still deal damage. I summon Blizzard Falcon (Atk:1500). And then I'll activate my face-down Megamorph. This doubles the attack of Falcon because I have less Life points than you (Atk:1500-3000). What goes up must come down, so Falcon, do your thing!'

The Falcon soared, and then nose-dived straight into the challengers, keeping up the pressure (Regiment LP:4950-3450). 'I'll end my turn with a face-down.' 'During your End phase, I'll activate my face-down Double Cyclone. This destroys a Spell or Trap on each field. Fairytails don't come true. And yours is going to end in tears when I rip down your architecture.'

After standing for the entire contest, the Aqua Gate was finally dismantled by a cyclone ripping through it, which also took out Mirage of Nightmare. 'With that monkey off my back, I'll take my turn now.'

Kari: 'I draw. I activate Monster Reborn to revive Number 39 – Utopia (Atk:2500). Now I activate the Spell card Utopia Buster. Because I control Utopia, I can destroy the weakest monster on your field and deal you damage equal to it's Attack points. Say goodbye you cockroach!'

Utopia picked up a bazooka and fired a huge rocket straight at Blizzard Falcon. But once again, Rio was prepared. 'Go – Damage Polarizer!' In an instant, the missile wiped Falcon off of the field (and the face of the earth), but Rio was protected from damage. 'Now we all draw.'

'Thanks. I activate Pot of Greed. That gives me access to a monster called Utopic Onomatopoeia (Atk:1500). When he's summoned, I gain access to up to four other monsters from my hand. I choose Gagaga Magician and Gagaga Gardna (Atk:1500)x2. I overlay them both to build the overlay network and Xyz summon Gagaga Cowboy (Def.:2500).'

'So?' 'By detaching an Xyz material, Cowboy shoots 800 more of your points away. Go get her!' Cowboy started shooting from his twin guns, and Rio closed her eyes as flashbacks began (Rio LP:2900-2100). 'I end my turn with a face-down.' Still seeing flashbacks, Rio was temporarily paralyzed by fear, until Hannah shouted at her. 'Rio, everything's good!' She then looked over. 'Thanks.' Clearly exhausted from nearly 50 minutes of exploits, Rio continued.

Rio: 'I… draw. I'll use the effect of Ragnar. One material… attacks directly.' 'I activate Negate Attack. This stops the Battle phase entirely.' 'I… I end my turn. I won't stop… never.'

Radley: 'My turn. I activate Fire Formation – Tensu. Now I can summon two Beast-Warrior monsters this turn. I choose Fire Fist Gorilla and Dragon (Atk:1600, 1800, FFC:8). I overlay my two Level 4 monsters to build the overlay network and Xyz summon Brotherhood of the Fire Fist – Tiger King (Atk:2200, FFC:9).'

'Tiger King, use your ability. Once per turn, he can detach two materials to negate the effects of all other monsters on the field.' As the fire raged, Radley prepared his big move. 'You sure Kari?' 'Now's the time.' 'Let's do it! I overlay our Rank 4 Tiger King and Gagaga Cowboy to summon Future Number 0 – Utopic Future (Atk:0).'

'A Rank 0? How's that even possible?' 'This is our future! A future which doesn't involve you. Future, attack Number 110.' Utopic Future came rushing in with it's swords, which made no impact on Ragnar, who for some reason didn't strike back (Regiment LP:3450).

'Why didn't you take damage?' 'Utopic Future isn't destroyed in battle, and nobody loses Life points from it's battles. Instead, when it attacks, the monster it faced switches to our field. Call this… karma.' With no effect to rely on, Rio watched helplessly as her monster switched sides. 'Ragnar, attack her directly1' Radley seemed to enjoy declaring that as Rio met her fate from a single surge of lightning, finally losing her uphill battle (Rio LP:2100-0).

As the crowd looked on in disappointment, Kari and Radley took the titles for real this time. 'Your winners and the new WDC Tag-Team Champions – Kari Tsukumo and Radley, the Regiment.' The two of them held their belts up, while Claude walked over to Rio and started kicking her in the head sarcastically, before he ran off as he saw Blair run down.

The celebrations continued for several minutes, and both members of the Regiment smacked the belts against each other. Radley then left as Kari spat at Rio, and threatened to attack her, instead posing for the crowd, who responded by throwing litter at her, causing the young woman to get so upset that she left immediately.

Rio meanwhile, was totally spent, and ended up being pulled to her feet by Blair, so the crowd could applaud her efforts, which came as little comfort to her. Blair then carried Rio out as the crowd shouted "R.I.O." and "Thank you Blair", the shouts continuing long after they had all left.

As the Idahoan was being helped back, they passed Phil, who looked over at her. 'I'm sorry, I failed.' He shook his head, and simply said 'You're a f***ing star' before passing by. Meanwhile, Hannah overheard two male staffers talking about Rob, and went to gain information.

'Where's Rob.' 'We… erm… we can't tell you right now' Her intensity then increased 10 fold. 'Tell me where he is, otherwise I'm going to circumcise you both right here right now. And no, I'm not qualified.' Scared, one of them gave in. 'Last I knew he was in the west wing by the fire escape… please don't hurt me.' Hannah responded by headbutting him, then leaving.

After a few minutes, Rio was able to react properly. 'I tried. I thought… I was going to win.' 'You dueled great.' 'Still lost.' 'It was two on one. You really were amazing Rio.' 'Still lost the titles though. I'm just… I know I'm better than that. But people are going to keep taking advantage though aren't they? I can't be like this forever.'

Ever supportive, Blair put her arm around her. 'Look how far you've come. 3 months ago, you were fighting for your life, we didn't know if you were ever going to wake up, never mind walk again. 3 months on, you're out there dueling 2-1 in front of 30,000 people. You'll get there and you'll get the titles back.'

In the dueling zone

Marko walked down trying to capitalize on his final in Helsinki. 'The following is a standard duel. Introducing first from Vitasaari, Finland, Marko Anders.' Marko walked down, and waved to the crowd, but he hadn't even made it all the way down before Vector warped in and activated his duel disk, refusing to even take off his wool-lined jacket.

Marko Anders LP:4000 vs. Vector LP:4000

Turn 1: Vector: 'I'm going to destroy you! I activate the Spell card Extra Foolish Burial. I pay half of my points (Vector LP:4000-2000), to send Number 96: Dark Mist from my Extra deck to the graveyard. Next I will activate Don Thousand's Throne.' As the opulent throne appeared, wires fastened into Vector's back, disgusting the crowd as he sat down.

'Now where was I? Ah yes, I summon Umbral Horror Ghoul (Atk:1800). And because I just summoned a monster, I can summon Kagetokage (Atk:1100). Now for my Ghoul's effect! He can reduce his Attack points all the way to 0, and in return, he can summon out another Ghoul from my hand (Atk:1800).'

'Now I overlay my three Level 4 monsters to build the overlay network! Let this be a message for people not to meddle in business which does not concern them! I Xyz summon Number 104 – Masquerade (Atk:2700). I end my turn with a face-down.'

Marko: 'I draw.' 'I activate my face-down Skull Invitation. Now every time one of our cards goes to the graveyard, the controller of that card loses 300 points for each card!' Marko was clearly overwhelmed at the sheer brutality of his opponent but continued anyway. 'I summon the Black Dragon's Chick (Atk:800). But I tribute it to summon Red-Eyes Black Dragon (Atk:2400).'

Vector's Trap then triggered, coating Marko in a black light and draining his health (Marko LP:4000-3700). 'And then I tribute Black Dragon to summon Red-Eyes Darkness Dragon (Atk:2400, Marko LP:3700-3400).' 'Darkness Dragon eh? I think we could be friends. After all, we're both vicious killing machines.' Trying to ignore the comments, Marko pressed on. 'Darkness Dragon gains 300 Attack for each Dragon in my cemetery (Atk:2400-3000). See how you laugh after Masquerade gets destroyed.'

Vector looked ready to counteract this move, but instead decided to let his monster be destroyed (Vector LP:2000-1700-1400). 'I end my turn.' Vector wasn't concerned by his lack of points. In fact, he laughed. 'You think that is a threat? Thanks to Don Thousand's Throne, I regain all the points I lost in battle this turn (Vector LP:1400-1700).

Vector: 'I draw. I activate Pot of Greed to draw two cards. Which means I can use the effect of Umbral Horror Ghost.' 'Where is it?' 'It's in my hand! By revealing itself, I get two of them (Atk:200). And now I'll use Mimiclay to summon a third one! (Atk:200). I overlay my three Level 2 monsters to build the overlay network and Xyz summon Number 43 – Manipulator of Souls! (Atk.:0).'

'He has no Attack. What would I expect though?' 'Come on, give me some credit. For example, I can use it's ability to take Number 96 from my graveyard and equip it.' The Manipulator lowered red strings into the ground, and they rose back up with Dark Mist hanging from them. 'I also activate a Field Spell – Temple of the Mind's Eye, and end my turn with a face-down.'

Marko: 'I draw. I'll take your bait and attack.' Darkness Dragon roasted the field, but only Dark Mist took the hit, and survived. 'As long as Manipulator is equipped with a monster, it survives! And because of my Temple, I only take 1000 damage (Vector LP:1700-700).' 'I end my turn.' 'At my End phase, I gain my Life points back (Vector LP:700-1700). And now Manipulator gains 1000 Attack points, then you lose 1000 Life points! Whipping Lash!'

Vector's Manipulator gained strength (Atk:1000), before a whipping tentacle smacked Marko in the throat, causing him trouble breathing (Marko LP:3400-2400).

Vector: 'I draw. I activate the Spell card Dian Keto the Cure Master. This gives me 1000 Life points (Vector LP:1700-2700, Atk:2000).' Another lash, and Marko was on his knees (Marko LP:2400-1400). 'Begging for forgiveness? I don't blame you. If I was… some idiot, I'd beg for forgiveness as well. FOR RUINING EVERYTHING! Which is why, I'm going to take my frustrations out on you.'

'I activate my face-down Gift of the Mystical Elf. For each monster on the field, I gain 300 Life points (Vector LP:2700-3300, Atk:2000-2600, Marko LP:1400-400). Vector was in his element, torturing opponents was right up his alley. 'Alas I have to end this fun. Attack Red-Eyes Darkness Dragon!'

Manipulator of Souls lashed out at Darkness Dragon, which scorched Dark Mist in return (Vector LP:3300-2300). 'I end my turn and let my cards do the damage (Vector LP:2300-3300, Atk:2600-3600, Marko LP:400-0).'

After defeating his Finnish foe, Vector stood above him as he struggled for air, and sarcastically did the Renegades salute, before grabbing a microphone. 'My my what happened to the poor "godfather of the Renegades"? It's almost like he was attacked… oh wait, he was. Of course, I wasn't going to do it myself. But for a small fee, I found someone who hated him almost as much as I do! Oh the joy, the hate.' He then grinned down the camera madly. 'How delicious! All the hate he has for that fool, how beautiful!'

'The Barian Empire were a united front once again, 7 emperors working together in perfect harmony, invading this planet. Until you showed up that is. You showed up, and you turned Marin's head, you made her believe she could have a "normal" life. Well the only person who decides what her life can be is me!'

'So you want to duel me? Well I accept! At In the Shadows, a fine name for a slaughter I must say, it will be empire vs. empire. The Barian Empire vs. The Renegade Legion. The Mad Emperor vs. The Godfather. And when all is settled?' He then looked down the camera deadpan. 'Only one empire will survive.' He left, as fans realized the enormity of the situation.

Backstage

Hannah was tearing everything apart backstage having been unsuccessful in trying to find Rob, when Kieran bumped into her. They had a very tense stare-off, before Hannah spoke. 'Do not make a very angry pregnant woman annoyed with you.' 'I couldn't care less if you're angry or not. When you and James face off, I hope you both kill each other. Two less idiots in the world.'

Before Hannah got chance to punch him, he made a point of walking off. She then continued looking for her ex until she found Kalin. 'How's Phil?' 'Heavily concussed. No permanent damage at least.' 'Thankfully.' 'Why do you care anyway?' He shrugged his shoulder.

'I guess I don't approve of maniacs running around pulverising people's faces in. Please forgive me for being so conscious of my own safety. By the way, I think I saw him just down by catering. Big guy, probably about 6'5, slightly floppy hair, pilot's license hanging out of his pocket.' 'Probably him.'

'You hear what Vector said?' She then produced an earphone. 'Every f***ing word. But I'm going to leave him to my husband.' 'He's going ahead with it?' 'Oh, is he going ahead with it. And if Vector thinks he's dangerous?' 'Until he's seen Phil with his back up, he's not seen dangerous. I wouldn't piss him off when he's in a good mood, never mind now.'

Hannah then walked off, and quickly found Rob, looking shifty while talking to a couple of staff members, who ran off as soon as they saw the pregnant woman boiling over. Instead of attacking him though, she just waited behind him until he turned around.

'Wasn't expecting you to come so quickly. Car's packed.' 'Are you fucking kidding me?' 'No, I can drive. I've got a license, promise.' 'You nearly put my husband in a coma, and now you want me to come with you? When you got that metal fist are you sure they didn't give you a metal brain as well?'

'Still persisting with that "husband" nonsense then?' She responded by holding her left hand up. 'Engagement ring, wedding ring. I'm taken. This is your last chance to get out of our lives for good. Otherwise' 'Otherwise what? What's he going to do – cry? That's all he ever did in school.'

'Well people change. I thought you were a good person then. Not someone who tried killing the husbands' 'HE ISN'T YOUR HUSBAND!' Rob yelled, blasting his voice into Hannah's face to the point where her hair was sticking out behind her. Hannah looked around, and then responded by blasting back at top volume, which was totally deafening.

'LOOK AT THE FUCKING RINGS YOU PRICK!' She then got something up on her phone. 'Bother us ever again and I'm going to have you arrested for breaching your restraining order. it's stupid that I had to get this in the first place.' 'Hang on… you got that?' 'Yes. I didn't tell him until we got home because he would have tried to talk me out of it. Because stupidly, he thinks everything can be solved by talking.'

Fed-up of the conversation, Rob started asking pointed questions. 'Name me five things he gives you that I can't give you.' 'Just five? Fine. Number 1, he makes me laugh every single day. Number 2, he's probably the best cook I know. Number 3, he cares about me. Too much at times, but he still cares. Number 4, I love him more than words can tell. And you want to know Number 5?'

'I could offer you so much more' 'It's that he gave me the one thing I thought I could never have. A family. I can't think of a single man I'd rather bear the child of. Because if that kid is half as good as his Dad then he's going to be a world beater. My only sadness is that I can't provide half as much as he's provided for me back. Yet he loves me just the same. So no, I'm not going with you, unless it's to the police station because you've breached your order.'

Rob started looking around, and then grabbed Hannah in a headlock before pressing her against the concrete wall to restrain her. 'I'm going to tell you what's going to happen. I'm going to give you that magic kiss, and that's going to turn you back to your senses. Then we're leaving. Otherwise, I'm going to make sure that he's well and truly out of the picture, and then, I'm going to set your house on fire to eradicate any evidence of his existence.'

Desperate to force Rob to let go, Hannah managed to free one hand, and then get hold of the house keys from her pocket, punching Rob square in the eye with it. Lydia and Freja then rushed over and together managed to trip him with a piece of rope. The twins went to leave, but Hannah insisted on punting Rob in the head, before spray-painting the word "Single" over him in block capitals.

Near the medical bay

Rio was still keeping an eye on her tag partner when Michael came walking past, pleased at his work. But she wasn't done with him. 'That duel was bogus and you know it. I'm sick and… fed-up of you taking every opportunity we get and twisting it, fed-up of you… you.. you always twist it, put us in impossible situations.'

Snarkily, Michael made an offer he knew Rio couldn't accept in her physical condition. 'It's such a shame you lost, I was really rooting for you. I'll tell you what, you can be involved in the top contender's duel later. Except you wouldn't be able to would you, what with your' 'I accept.' Before Michael could backtrack, Maltby passed. 'She's got you now Mikey.'

Outside, Johnny McGregor was preparing for his duel, talking to a young girl, who was wearing her mid-length brunette hair down. 'So Declan wants you to be a part of this?' 'Yeah, skinky malinky longlegs can think that, I'm not doing it. He just willnae listen man, he thinks he knows what's best for me. And why, because he's some child prodigy?'

'If you ask me you should just transfer over to the WDC permanently.' 'Yeah, I've been thinking of that.' 'You'll make more money and there's more competition. You know how everyone reacted to the duel with Maddy. 'Yeah, 4.5* wasn't it?' 'Yeah. D.J. described it as the best duel of the season anywhere.'

Jodi then walked up to them both, still hooded to disguise her identity. 'Who are you?' She smiled. 'I am an envoy of the group known as the Renegades.' 'What dee you want?' 'I was asked to come by our president. She wants to invite you both to join our revolution.' The girl seemed surprised.

'Both of us? What've I got to do with it?' 'We know plenty about you. Dylar McGregor, 13 from Govan. Half sister of Johnny, different father from a rekindled earlier relationship. Acting as Johnny's manager since 11th January 2015. Hobbies include archery and swimming. You want to visit Japan one day to ample traditionally-made sushi. We know much about you.'

Johnny then stepped in front of her, his blue headband fluttering in the breeze. 'Tell us what you know about me then.' 'Johnny McGregor, 21, from Govan. Half brother of Dylar and full-blood brother of Alice. WDC Atlas Champion for 349 days, defending the title 7 times in that time. Work as a shipbuilder specialising in repairing beached fishing boats. Want to move to the WDC because you want to beat Maddy after your last duel. Hobbies include lifting weights at your local gym and playing bass guitar. You have a secret for dressage though.'

Dylar then looked at her sibling. 'You big sissy.' She then stepped up to Jodi herself. 'Who are you then?' 'My name is irrelevant, for I am simply an envoy of the Renegades. I am sent to perform duties when the president is unavailable.' 'If she wants us so bad, why doesn't she come?'

'Maddy has a very important duel to prepare for. That is a situation for which envoys have been created. Be honoured, for I am the one she trusts the most.' Seemingly interested, Dylar inquired. 'What can you offer us then?' 'You need never worry about being alone in a fight. For the Renegades ride as one.'

'But would we not be stuck in a pecking order?' Jodi laughed. 'Here at the Renegades we encourage peaceful competition. If members want opportunities, they have to prove themselves. If they choose to do that by taking each other on in a contest to see who is rightfully number 1, that is their choice.'

'And what's your view on sacrifice for the cause?' 'The club is more than the individual components. Every member mus be willing to sacrifice themselves should it be necessary, however we encourage sensible decision making. Sacrifice should only be a last resort if all other options are unavailable or have failed.'

'And if I join, can I still live in Govan?' 'We have no restriction upon where you live so long as you can be available whenever needed.''Like a scramble squad?' 'I suppose you could call it that.' Jodi then handed her a business card. 'North Shields. I know there.' Johnny then looked at her.

'Doesn't your Dad live in Gateshead?' 'Yeah, he moved house recently but he still lives around there somewhere. I've been through North Shields when he's been taking me back home.' She then looked up at Jodi. 'I am very interested. May I meet your president?' 'Indeed. Right this way.' Johnny went to come, but Dylar stopped him. 'You've got a duel to prepare for. I'll fill you in afterwards.'

As Dylar arrived at the club's private box, Jodi knocked on the door and got a response from Blair. 'This is the Renegades' box. Who is it?' 'Envoy Jodi. I bring a potential client.' 'Name?' 'Dylar McGregor.' The doors to the box then opened and they walked in to find Blair messing around with a yo-yo.

'Am I going to get an explanation for this?' 'Sak's been saying I should find a hobby while I'm waiting to be cleared. I didn't have the patience for knitting, and I don't have the time or endless money for a gym membership. Seriously, is everything more expensive over here or is it just that I never had to worry because I'm used to borrowing money from everyone else?'

Jodi then looked around. 'You could have told me she wasn't here?' Blair then looked around herself. 'Oops, forgot, sorry.' Astrid then rolled her eyes and produced an old, slightly rusted-looking flip phone. 'When did you get a phone?' 'When Maddy decided everyone needed one. I think I remember how to use it.' Nearly five minutes later she'd worked it out.

'Finally stopped being a total technophobe then?' 'Funny. Jodi's back, and she's got a potensiell klient.' 'Astrid, can you stop changing language halfway through a sentence? I'll be back in a couple of minutes. Sak wants to keep Dad down here for a while just because he's still quite dazed. Seems to be largely ok though.'

Astrid then looked over at Dylar. 'Take a seat, she'll be here in a couple of minutes. Just needs to get back from the medical bay.' 'Thank you.' Jodi then left the box, having done her job, and shortly afterwards, Maddy walked in.

'So Dylar McGregor?' 'Yes.' 'What brings you here?' 'I have heard about the Renegades, and I wish to join.' 'And your brother?' 'He is reluctant to join, but when he sees me here he probably will do. He's just stubborn. So what do I need to do?' 'Firstly I've got a couple of forms for you to sign. One is just your details, we'd normally take them back at base but we're having a couple of technical difficulties at the moment.'

'And what's the other form?' 'It's a contract, it declares that you agree to the rules of the Renegades laid out by our envoy. Your role to start with will be an envoy, but you may have your position changed if we deem it necessary. We have a book of rules back at the base, if you join then we'll provide it to you, and if you can't come to collect it, we'll send it by courier.' 'Right.'

In the duelling zone

As a gruff voice declared the arrival of the "Last King of Scotland", Johnny was out first, sporting new music fitting to his heritage (Amazing Grace, performed on bagpipes by the Royal Scots Dragoon Guard). 'The following is a duel under Standard Rules. Introducing first, from Govan, Glasgow, Scotland, the Glasgow Gladiator – Johnny McGregor.'

Johnny walked down wearing a gladiator's helmet and armour, apart from a green and blue tartan kilt. Reaching the duelling zone, he took his helmet off, revealing blazing red hair and a black goatee. He saluted his home crowd, and waited for his opponent, as the analysis took place.

'Johnny McGregor is part of the talent transfer between the WDC and the Leo Federation of Duelling, and has spent over 300 days as LFD Atlas Champion. His Gladiator Tag deck allows him to manipulate any battle to his advantage, trading in his Gladiator Beast for a brand new one ready for the situation.'

Claude wasted plenty of time before making his entrance, accompanied by the new tag champions and a patched-up Hassleberry. 'Introducing his opponent, from Zealand, Denmark, he is the leader of the Regiment – Lt. Claude W. Duane.'

The strapping Dane sauntered out dressed in his military garb, and raised both fists before walking down to the duelling zone as fireworks erupted behind him. Reaching the duelling zone, he smirked and walked in still wearing his big cumbersome jacket.

'Claude Duane is strong, experienced, and he has the game to match his ego. His Jurassic Conduction deck allows strong attacks and quick disruption. And when he gives you that sinister smirk, you know you're about to lose.'

Johnny McGregor LP:4000 vs. Lt. Claude W. Duane LP:4000

Turn 1: Johnny: 'I'll start matey. I summon Gladiator Beast Samnite (Atk:1600). Now I equip him with the Gladiator Beast's Battle Manica.' A discarded shell then found it's way onto Samnite's arm. 'I end my turn with two face-downs.'

Claude: 'I draw. I summon Gilasaurus through it's effect (Atk:1400). But he's being tributed for Jurrac Herra (Atk:2300). Attack with Triassic Flare.' 'You never watched any of my duels my wee matey? When equipped with Battle Manica, Glad Beasts can't be destroyed in battle. And when Samnite is attacked, he tags out to me deck and is replaced with a different Glad Beast. Hail Gladiator Beast Vespasius! (Atk:2300).'

'And because Battle Manica was sent to my graveyard due to tagging out, it returns straight to my hand.' Claude however, had a different concern. 'Why didn't you lose any Life points?' 'Due to my Spirit Barrier. If I have a monster out, I take no Battle damage. Dinnae underestimate me boy.'

Claude then rolled his eyes. 'I knew you were annoying but this is unbearable. I activate the Spell card Mage Power. For every Spell or Trap on my field, Herra gains 500 Attack (Atk:2300-2800). I end my turn with a face-down (Atk:2800-3300).'

Johnny: 'I draw. I summon Gladiator Beast Darius (Atk:1700). And I equip it with Battle Manica. I'll end my turn with a face-down meself. Your go butch.'

Claude: 'You're a comedian are you then? I draw. I summon the Tuner monster Jurrac Dino (Atk:1700). Herra, attack Gladiator Beast Vespasius.' 'You're this hoity toity vet and you dinnae see this coming? I activate Shift. So now you're attacking Darius.' 'You'll regret that when I activate my Mystical Space Typhoon to destroy Spirit Barrier.'

Darius ate a powerful flame attack from Herra, which scorched it but the Manica protected (Johnny LP:4000-2400). 'When Darius is attacked, I can tag it out for a new Glad Beast. I summon Gladiator Beast Secutor (Atk:400). I also activate me Pixie Ring. I'm no dainty fairy no sir but this card protects me little Secutor from attacks. So if you're mounting your assault you've gotta go through Vespasius.'

Not wanting to sacrifice his other monster, Claude reluctantly backed out. 'Not a bad move for an idiot. You could have a future kid. I'll end my turn with a face-down.' Meanwhile, a camera had managed to infiltrate the Renegades' box.

Johnny: 'I draw. I equip Secutor with Battle Manica. Now attack Jurrac Dino.' The frog-like Secutor blasted water out of two cannons, with it bouncing off of Dino (Johnny LP:2400-1100). 'Now Secutor tags out. And with his ability because he was summoned by a mate, he gets to call two out! I summon Gladiator Beast Murmillo and Gladiator Beast Octavius (Atk:800, 2500).'

'When Murmillo is called out by his mate, he can destroy one monster on the field. Say goodbye to yer Herra.' Herra was ripped apart by the blast of Murmillo's own water cannons, providing a sweet reversal of earlier on. 'Octavius, attack.' The eagle-like Octavius fired sharp feathers at Jurrac Dino, shredding it (Claude LP:4000-3200).

'With your field clear, Murmillo can sweep in. Quick Wave.' Without hesitation, the Gladiator Beast slammed Claude with a powerful jet of water, sweeping him off of his feet (Claude LP:3200-2400). Getting into his groove, Johnny started to smile more. 'I end my'

At this moment, Johnny looked up and saw a secret camera filming the events in the Renegade box, where Dylar was looking up at Maddy, whose eyes were glowing gold, and she had her hand on Dylar's head. 'You are a member of the Renegades. Now repeat after me: This club is all that you desire.' 'This club is all that I desire.' 'You would give everything to be loyal to the cause, even your life if necessary.' 'I would give everything to be loyal to the cause, even my life if necessary.'

Seeing this, Johnny shouted over at Claude. 'We'll end this some other time vet.' He then closed down his duel disk and immediately ran off backstage to try and locate the box where his sister was being recruited.

Meanwhile, Claude stood there bewildered, but somewhat reluctantly accepted the result as it was officially announced. 'Your winner by Countout – Lt. Claude W. Duane.' Claude was congratulated somewhat two-facedly by his colleagues, before eventually walking off, clearly believing the world of himself.

Backstage

Having abandoned his duel, Johnny continued searching until he saw a small staircase. Following it, he found Dylar stood outside the box. 'What the hell's going on?' Dylar responded by smiling. 'I decided to join the Renegades myself. If they know so much about me they must want me there. And she showed me so many things. I can't describe it. You should join us.'

'I don't trust any of them. And you shouldn't either.' 'It's too late for that. I'm one of them now. I understand if you don't want to join initially, but give it a chance.' 'I'm not joining now, I'm not joining ever. I'll see you back at home.' As Johnny walked off, Blair whispered down Dylar's ear. 'We're all that's important now. Let me take you to your master.' 'Take me to him.'

Elsewhere

Eagle was being interviewed about her duel against Akiza. 'Eagle Adams, it was recently that you laid down your challenge to Akiza Izinski. A brave challenge? Or a foolish plan?' 'It's not brave, it's not foolish, it's just me standing up for what I believe in. Standing up for someone who is clearly in no situation to defend themselves.'

A short, blonde girl then walked in wearing a pair of sunglasses. 'Caprice, you made it?' 'Yeah, wish I didn't have to come because it means looking at the people around here, I mean have you seen what they're wearing?' 'Come on, not everyone can look as good as you.'

'I mean why not? They look like they all shop at charity stores or something. Would it kill them to try and look nice?' 'Apparently it would. Listen, are you going to be out there?' 'No, I'm going to be staying here where it's nice and warm. I'm like a cat I think, I only like warm places.'

'You're from South Africa – of course you only like warm places. Like that Astrid, she likes cold places. Probably why she lives locally.' 'Is that why she always dresses like an eskimo? I bet she'd melt if she got any colour in her face. I'll come and help if you're ambushed though, promise.'

In the duelling zone

Akiza was first out, this time accompanied by Lukas, Jesse, and Tee. 'The following is a duel under Standard Rules. Introducing first, from Tacoma, Washington, Akiza Izinski.' Akiza walked straight down, her coat flowing and got her duel disk out, showing no sign of her internal strife as Yusei ran her down for the fans.

'Akiza is a vicious duellist with nerve and cool like few others, befitting of her status as a former World Champion. Her Aroma deck focuses on harming the opponent while healing herself, and that's both physically and mentally.'

Eagle then jumped her cue and ran out to confront Akiza. 'This has to stop, now! This isn't some freak circus, and she is too young and vulnerable to be caught up in this.' Akiza's response was curt, yet somewhat true. 'Tee made her own decision. You are the one interfering with her will. Now I came to duel, not to talk. You're simply in my way.'

Akiza Izinski LP:4000 vs. Eagle Adams LP:4000

Turn 1: Akiza: 'I'll start. I activate the Spell card Aroma Gardening, then summon Aromage Jasmine (Atk:100). Due to Aroma Gardening, any Aroma monster I summon gives me 1000 points (LP:4000-5000). When I gain Life points, Jasmine grants me an extra card. Which is the monster Rose Fairy. When I draw her outside of my Draw phase, I can summon her (Def.:1200).'

'I'll also activate Super Solar Nutrient. This allows the tributing of a Level 2 or lower Plant, such as Jasmine. In return, I can summon a Plant from my deck whose Level is up to three stars higher. I summon the Level 2 Cherry Inmato (Atk:600). And now I tune Level 2 Cherry Inmato to the Level 3 Rose Fairy, in order to Synchro summon Garden Rose Maiden (Def.:2400).'

Eagle was absolutely stunned at the combination of moves being put together by Akiza, and was starting to realise she was in over her head. 'What have I got myself into?' 'You should have asked that before you interfered in my business! I had no issue with you. Everything which happens here is your fault, not mine. I'm not at fault!'

'When Garden Rose Maiden is summoned, I can add this to my hand – Black Garden. And now, I'll activate it.' Akiza's signature garden slowly grew from the ground, to cover the entire field in a greenhouse effect. 'I end my turn.'

Eagle: 'I draw. I activate Double Summon, to Normal summon twice this turn. Meet Naturia Dragonfly and Naturia Mosquito (Dragonfly Atk:1200, Mosquito Atk:200).' The two monsters quickly found themselves bound and restrained by Akiza's tricky Field spell (Atk:600, 100, Rose Token Atk:800x2).

'Dragonfly, attack Garden Rose Maiden. And when one of my Naturias does battle, all my damage is reflected back to you.' Akiza however, wasn't concerned by this. 'I activate Wall of Thorns. Because you're attacking a Plant on my field, all your monsters in Attack mode are uprooted.'

With both her monsters destroyed by the maze of stinging thorns, Eagle had to resort to desperate measures. 'I activate my face-down Soul Charge. This allows me to revive any number of monsters if I pay 1000 points for each one. I pay 2000 points (Eagle LP:4000-2000), and bring back Dragonfly and Mosquito (Atk:1200-600, 200-100, Rose Token Atk:800×2). I end my turn with two face-downs.'

Akiza: 'I draw. I activate the Spell card Crosspollination. By discarding one Plant-type monster, I can add one of a different attribute to my hand. So I'll discard the Water-attribute Lord Poison and add the Fire-attribute Phoenixian Seed to my hand. Next I'll activate another Spell – Rose Bell of Revelation.'

A single bell then appeared above Akiza and started wailing away. 'What is that?' 'It's just a bell. But your final bell has already rung, as I now am allowed to add a Plant to my hand, so long as it has exactly than 2400 Attack and it's Level is over 7. I choose Queen Angel of Roses.'

'Now I summon Bird of Roses (Atk:1800-900, Rose Token Atk:800). But by sending her to my graveyard, I can summon Queen Angel of Roses (Atk:2400-1200, Rose Token Atk:800). 'Now I'll switch my Maiden to Attack mode (Atk:1600) and attack your Rose Token.' 'I activate Negate Attack to stop your entire Battle phase.' 'I'll end my turn then.'

Eagle: 'I draw. I summon the Tuner monster Naturia Butterfly (Atk:500). I'll switch my Rose Tokens to Defence mode (Def.:800), and end my turn.

Akiza: 'I draw. During my Standby phase, I can use the effect of Queen Angel of Roses. That destroys the monster on the field whose Attack points are the lowest.' This revelation hit Eagle like a ton of bricks. 'The lowest? But that's my Mosquito.' 'Correct. Consider this a can of bug spray.'

The majestic Queen Angel flew through the sky, and sliced straight through the Mosquito, producing no blood, only destruction. 'Next I summon the Tuner monster Glow-up Bulb (Atk:100). Now Level 1 Glow-up Bulb tunes with my two Level 2 Rose Tokens so I can summon Aromaseraphy Rosemary (Atk:2000).'

'What, and that's going to impress me? Face it, Tee doesn't belong to you. We want her because she is a gorgeous girl trapped in your lack of any style!' Akiza barely responded to this. 'If you're going to go against me, at least be consistent with your beliefs. Because I just summoned an Aroma monster, Gardening gives me 1000 more Life points (Akiza LP:5000-6000).'

'And that just triggered Rosemary's ability. It allows her to negate the effects of a monster on your field. I'm going to choose your Naturia Butterfly. Not to mention that while I have more Life points than you, Rosemary gives my Plants 500 more Attack. Rosemary, attack Butterfly.' Akiza watched on, almost entranced at the destruction as Rosemary battered the Butterfly with the storm of petals (Eagle LP:2000-000).

After Akiza had won, she stared at Eagle for long enough to mutter 'You should never have interfered', before turning and leaving as she had been doing after her recent duels, Tee and Lukas following her. Meanwhile, Caprice came out and pulled Eagle back to her feet before they left together as a subsection of the fans booed, due to Caprice's earlier comments.

Back in the box

Astrid was deeply unhappy. 'I look nothing like an eskimo. Just because she likes being hot, not my fault.' Maddy then asked a rather tentative question. 'You do know what an eskimo is don't you?' 'Of course I know what an eskimo is! I lived in the Arctic circle.' 'Have you ever met one?'

'Yeah, been to Kalaallit Nunaat several times.' 'Where?' 'It's what the people there call Greenland. Very friendly when you try and learn the language.' 'Can you speak it?' 'About as well as you speak Norwegian.'

'C'mon, I've improved 'trid.' 'I know. You're maybe 6/10? Very friendly up there though. Especially Aama and her family.' 'Sorry, you lost me.' 'Aama, girl I met up there. She must be nearly 18 by now. Aama Greta Lyberth. Not to be confused with her auntie Aama Moller Lyberth. Or her mother Aama Jakku Lyberth.'

Blair then walked past. 'Your English has really come on.' 'Astrid's English is absolutely fine. She's just too lazy to use it.' 'Why should I? It's the one thing I don't like about England.' This seemed to surprise Maddy. 'You actually like England?' 'Yeah, it's like a permanent summer holiday.'

'Where were you even born?' 'Near Tromso, it's in the far north.' 'How cold is it up there?' 'What temperature is it today?' 'Here, it's 4°C. Slightly cold for the time of year.' 'That would be what you might call spring in Tromso.' 'What about the summers?' 'Gets to double figures… once in a while.'

'So you're not cold here?' 'No, it's quite pleasant. The temperature stays below freezing 7 months of the year up there. Christmas is in the dark, because the sun never rises for around 8 weeks.' 'Sounds kinda cool.' Astrid stood up at this point. 'Guess so? All I know.'

Astrid then left for the top contender's duel, as Maddy looked at something intently on her phone, not escaping Blair's eagle eye. 'Everything alright?' 'Yeah, fine.' She then walked over. 'Simpler days?' 'Yeah. Back when it was wolfbloods against the world. Before' 'Before you chose the greater good over your own good.'

'How do you know all this?' 'Can see it in your eyes. Eyes tell you a lot about a person. That's where I'm lucky – I didn't have a decision to make. Not really. You sacrificed everything.' 'I just… sometimes I wish I'd just stuck it out a little longer, see if he could change. See if I changed.'

She then looked up at Blair. 'Blair, did I make the right decision?' Her response was to calmly sit down. 'It's not my place to say. Is it the decision I would have made in your situation? Yeah, it is. But I can't say if there was a right decision. You know in your heart if you made the right decision.' This gave Maddy a lot to contemplate.

In the Duel Arena

As the lights dimmed ahead of a critically important contest, Astrid was first out, wearing a cape on her armour now. As she entered the arena, she held her arms out, and her "cape" unfolded to reveal her family crest – a deep red shield with a diagonal orange sash across it and a bear in front of the sash. At the top and bottom of the shield, the words "Vær standhaftig og vis mot i hver kamp" (Be steadfast and show courage in every battle) were written.

The fans went berserk as they saw this, and she stormed down to the duelling zone, in a fowl mood after she'd been informed of Rio being in the duel. As she got to the duelling zone, she knelt down on one knee, arms outstretched, and smiled, before shouting 'Seier for hjemlandet!' (Victory for the homeland).

Next out was Kieran, now wearing sunglasses alongside his cut-up black short-sleeved shirt alongisde his helicopter-sounding music. As he approached the duelling zone, he locked eyes with Astrid, who was pumped for it. Kieran meanwhile, maintained his largely aloof profile, not even acknowledging the fans.

Rio's music was last, and she came out with her crutches, making her way down as the fans looked on, still shocked at her duelling for the second time. Reaching the duelling zone, she immediately got into a massive argument with Astrid, the two almost coming to blows as the introductions were made.

'The following is a Top Contender's Duel. The winner will receive a WDC Championship duel against Rhydian Morris at WDC: In the Shadows. Introducing first, representing the Renegades, from the Island of Berk, Svalbard, Norway, she would like to be introduced as Fearless Astrid Hofferson.' Astrid barely flinched at the introduction, eager to get on with it.

'Introducing the second competitor, representing the Brave Bones, from Croydon, England, he is Kieran Byrne.' Kieran raised his hand, and waited for the final introduction. 'And finally, representing the Renegades, from Twin Falls, Idaho, Cold-Blooded Rio Kastle.' Rio held her hands up in a diamond formation in reference to Blair, who was watching on silently from the entrance gate.

Top Contender's Duel: Astrid Hofferson LP:8000 vs. Kieran Byrne LP:8000 vs. Rio Kastle LP:8000

Turn 1: Rio: 'I draw. I activate Aqua Gate.' As the gate rose up for the second time in the event, Astrid looked on in annoyance. 'Next I summon Graydle Eagle (Atk:1500). I end my turn with two face-downs.'

Astrid: 'My turn. I activate One for One. I send a card from my hand to cemetery, summon a Level 1 from hand. Summon Valkyrie Sechste (Def.:2000). When I summon her Specially, she summons another Valkyrie from the deck. Come, Valkyrie Sigrun (Def.:2400). When Sigrun is summoned, I summon Valkyrie Erda (Def.:2200).'

'While Erda is out as she was summoned by a Valkyrie, all face-up monsters you both control lose 1000 Attack (Atk:1500-500). Now I summon Valkyrie Dritte (Atk:1000). When I summon Dritte she adds a Valkyrie card from my deck to my hand. I choose Ride of the Valkyries. One face-down, I end my turn.'

Kieran: 'I almost fell asleep waiting for you to finish. I draw. I summon Superheavy Samurai Magnet (Atk:900). When he's called out, I switch him to Defence and summon a monster from my hand. I choose Superheavy Samurai Gigagloves (Atk:100, Magnet Def.:1900).'

'Now I summon Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter because I don't have any Spells or Traps (Atk:300). Now Level 2 Trumpeter tunes to Level 3 Gigagloves and Level 4 Magnet so I can summon the Level 9 Superheavy Samurai Beast Kyubi (Def.:2500). While Kyubi is on the field and my graveyard still has no Spells or Traps, Beast Kyubi gains 900 Defence for every Special summoned monster either of you have (Def.:2500-5200). I end my turn.'

Rio: 'I draw. I summon Blizzard Falcon (Atk:1500).' Astrid then glared at Rio. 'Keep out of the way. You're not supposed to be here.' The Idahoan promptly ignored this not-so-friendly advice. 'I'll equip my Falcon with Moon Mirror Shield. Now when she attacks, her Attack is 100 higher than whatever she takes on. Attack Beast Kyubi with Blizzard Mirage.'

As her Falcon attacked and gained power (Atk:1500-5300), Kieran responded. 'I activate the effect of Superheavy Samurai Helper in my hand. When a Samurai on my field is battling, discarding Helper gives my monster extra Defence equal to your monster. And that ain't no mirage (Def.:5200-6700).' The two supercharged monsters collided, and the impact blew up in both their faces (Kieran LP:8000-6500, Rio LP:8000-6600).

Astrid then shouted at her fellow Renegade. 'Slutte å blande seg inn!' 'In English?' The viking then went beserk. 'IT MEANS STOP INTERFERING!' 'I've got as much right to be here as you.' Kieran then interrupted the catfight. 'Are you going to end your turn? I ain't paid by the hour.' 'I end my turn.'

Astrid: 'I draw.' At this moment, she realised a way to counter Beast Kyubi. 'He's not going to be running no Spells or Traps. I activate Foolish Burial Goods. This forces everyone to send a Spell or Trap from their decks to the graveyard.' Rio wasn't happy about this, but Kieran was even unhappier, as having to send Sekka's Light meant Beast Kyubi lost it's boosts (Def.:6700-2500).

'Next Sigrun switches to Attack mode (Atk:2200). Now come, Valkyrie Chariot (Atk:500). My Chariot is very special, she equips onto Sigrun, and she gains 500 Attack every time she attacks. Charge at Beast Kyubi!' Upon Astrid's demand, Sigrun rode in on a chariot, (Atk:2200-2700), and skewered the Superheavy Samurai. 'One set, end.'

Kieran: 'My turn. I activate the effect of Sekka's Light from my graveyard. I banish it, show you a monster in my hand, send it to my deck and draw another card.' As Kieran drew his new card, Astrid immediately saw what he was planning. 'You didn't want the extra card. You just wanted Sekka's Light out of your graveyard.'

'Clever girl. I'll give you a badge. Or how about a Superheavy Samurai Battleball? (Atk:100). Because I only control Superheavy Samurais and my graveyard is empty, Battleball allows me to Synchro using a monster on your field. I choose Valkyrie Erda, and tune to Battleball, so I can summon Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo (Def.:3800).'

'In case you didn't know, Susanowo can attack from Defence position. Take out her Valkyrie Sigrun.' The lumbering Samurai carved through the ground as it rumbled towards Sigrun, whose Chariot was obliterated by the attack and Astrid was coated in a purple light as her points fell (Astrid LP 8000-6900).

'When a Valkyrie equipped with Valkyrie Chariot would be destroyed, the Chariot takes the hit instead.' 'I activate the effect of Susanowo. Because I have no Spells or Traps in my graveyard, I can take a Spell or Trap from one of your graveyards and set it on my field. But when it's removed from the field, it's banished. I choose Foolish Burial Goods. I end my turn.'

Rio: 'I draw. I'll set a monster in Defence mode and end my turn.'

Astrid: 'Draw. Activate Premature Burial. This revives Valkyrie Chariot (Atk:500). Now I tribute it. Come, Fortune Chariot (Atk:1000). Fortune Chariot equips onto Sigrun.' As the more opulent chariot appeared, Sigrun mounted onto the rear of it, her horses at the other end pulling her across the ground.

'When riding this Chariot, Sigrun can halve her damage to strike directly. Gå til handling!' Sigrun charged in with a mighty sword and slashed directly at Kieran, slamming him for good damage (Kieran LP:6500-5150). But Astrid wasn't yet done.

'Go – Mischief of the Time Goddess. I only control Valkyries, so I can conduct another Battle phase. Sigrun, Gå til handling!' Sigrun swept in again, and sliced more points from the big Englishman's score (Kieran LP:5150-3800). 'Set 1.'

Kieran: 'I draw. I'll equip Susanowo with Superheavy Samurai Soulshield Wall for 1200 more Defence (Def.:3800-5000). Attack with Swinging Sword Slash.' Susanowo came rumbling in, smashing into Sigrun with incredible force (Astrid LP:6900-4600). 'Fortune Chariot takes the hit.' Now I'll use the effect of Susanowo to steal Mischief of the Time Goddess from your graveyard. I end my turn.'

Rio: 'I draw.' Having taken a moment to assess her options, Rio took it easy. 'I end my turn with a face-down.' The former tag champ, however, had picked up some strategy tips from her manager. ('Those two are so wrapped up in their own little argument that they aren't interested in me in the slightest. If they come for me, I'll negate their attack with Aqua Gate. If they try to destroy it, I'll use Metaverse to grab another one. And if they try to wipe my board, I'll use Fake Trap to protect my back-row.')

Astrid: 'Draw. I switch Erda to Attack mode (Atk:2000). Now I activate a Spell – Valkyrie's Embrace. I switch Era back to Defence (Def.:2200), and Susanowo is banished!' Erda disembarked her mount, and flew towards Susanowo, making it vanish as she touched it. 'Sigrun, attack directly.' 'I'll activate Swift Scarecrow's effect in my hand. I discard it, and the Battle phase ends.' 'My turn's done.'

Kieran: 'I draw. I'll summon Superheavy Samurai Blue Brawler (Atk:0). When it's summoned, it switches to Defence (Def.:2000). I end my turn.'

Rio: 'I draw. I activate Book of Moon to flip my Falcon face-down. Now I flip it back face-up. And I activate Wings of Silence. She gains 300 Attack and immunity to Spells and Traps (Atk:1500-1800). Now Kieran takes 1500 damage.' As the Falcon smashed straight into Kieran (Kieran LP:3800-2300), Astrid absolutely blew up with her club-mate.

'Hold deg unna veien! Jeg kan gjøre dette selv! Du skulle ikke være her! Ikke din kamp! (Stay out of the way! I can do this myself! You shouldn't be here! Not your fight!)' 'How many times, I don't speak eskimo!' 'If you don't shut up I'll give you eskimo! I'll kick your teeth out one by one!' '

Astrid: 'I draw. I tribute Sechste to summon Valkyrie Erste (Atk:1600).' 'She appears to be a little short on points.' 'I'm not stupid, I can see that. Erste can banish a monster to copy it's Attack points. But I'm banishing from your graveyard. I choose Susanowo (Atk:2400). Attack Blue Brawler.'

Erste rode in with her sword glowing, but Blue Brawler resisted the hit. 'Blue Brawler is indestructible in battle. Good try though. Maybe your Momma Bear up there can comfort you. I hear she likes adopting anyone stupid enough.' Strangely, Astrid was barely moved by this comment. 'You're hilarious. I'm sure kick puppies and kittens for a laugh as well. I end my turn.'

Kieran: 'I draw. I have no Spells or Traps in my graveyard so I can summon Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter (Atk:600). Now I tribute my monsters to summon Superheavy Samurai Big Benkei (Atk:1000). And like Blue Brawler, it switches to Defence mode (Def.:3500).'

'Next I'll activate Mech Call. This allows me to summon another Machine from my hand, as long as it's Defence is less than half of the one on my field. I choose Spell Canceller (Def.:1600). While it's on the field, Spells on the field are all negated. And once used, Mech Call banishes itself. Big Benkei, attack Blizzard Falcon.'

As Big Benkei surged onwards, Kieran had a secret weapon. 'I activate the effect of Superheavy Samurai Soulbuster Gauntlet from my hand. By discarding it, the Defence of Big Benkei is doubled (Def.:3500-7000). This is for being a nosey little rat.' Big Benkei absolutely obliterated Blizzard Falcon, knocking Rio way off of her feet and almost out of the duelling zone altogether, as she lay on the ground (Rio LP:6600-1400). 'I end my turn.'

Impressively, Rio managed to scrape herself off of the ground. 'You're not keeping me down. I'm not going to throw this away.' 'You've been through a lot. Why don't you just go home for your own sake.' This comment incensed her. 'Been through a lot? I've been through death and survived, twice. This is nothing.'

Rio: 'I draw. I'll end my turn with a face-down.'

Astrid: 'Draw. I activate Delinquent Duo. By paying 1000 Life points (Astrid LP:4600-3600), I can force Kieran to randomly discard one card. Then I can choose another card for him to discard.'

'Next I summon Mara of the Nordic Alfar (Atk:1000). When Mara is used in a Synchro, the other materials must come from my hand. I Synchro Mara with two Ljosalfs of the Nordic Alfar!' In her rage and frustration, Astrid ditched the usual prayer to the gods and instead skipped straight to the summon. 'Synchro summon Loki, Lord of the Aesir (Atk:3300).'

Astrid was well on top, and then produced the coup-de-grace. 'And now I activate the Spell card Diffusion-Wave Motion! I have to pay 1000 Life points to use this magic (Astrid LP:3600-2600). In exchange, Loki can rain down judgement on every monster on the field! Get ready to rain fury!'

The story had a sting in the tail though, as Rio went rogue and into business for herself. 'You've not entered your Battle phase yet. That means there's still time. I activate Ring of Destruction! This destroys Loki and then we all take it's Attack as damage. Let this be my Hail Mary!' A ring of bombs surrounded Loki's neck, and exploded, ending the duel in confusion (Astrid LP:2600-0, Kieran LP:2300-0, Rio LP:1400-0).

With the duel having ended inconclusively, Kieran made a fairly swift exit, dissatisfied with the result. Meanwhile, Astrid and Rio had a blazing row over Rio's involvement in the duel, which ended in Blair walking out to talk sense into them and splitting them up. They then bumped shoulders before going separate ways.

Outside

Rhydian had for some reason insisted on being interviewed outside ahead of his main event duel. 'My guest at this time, the WDC Champion – Rhydian Morris. Rhydian, it was you who made the challenge for this Champion vs. Champion duel. Yet you insisted it be non-title. Does this smack of somebody who is scared of their decisions?'

'There was a very good reason I insisted on it being non-title. I didn't want the distraction. I don't have to carry a belt around to know that I have worth. But Maddy, she doesn't feel that. I'm trying to look after her.' As he spoke, he got more and more worked up. 'I'm trying to look after her but she just doesn't get it. She refuses to get it.'

'Several months ago, my girlfriend, the girl I loved more than anything else, she was taken away from me. And for what? So she could run around as a cult member? Well I'm not standing for it. That's the reason I'm here, and that's the reason for this duel. Once I've beaten Maddy, she's going to snap out of this. She's going to realise what's happened to her and come back home with me. They say good guys finish last? Well tonight a good wolf finishes first.'

In the corridor, near the entranceway

As Maddy walked by on her own trying to mentally prepare herself for the duel, her old friend Tom caught up with her. 'Maddy, can we talk?' 'Tom, this is a really bad time.' 'I mean I just want to apologise for the way I spoke to you last time.' The Renegades president seemed taken aback by this, but happily accepted it.

'I'm glad you are. Now any chance you could let me get on with this?' 'Please just hear me out.' She then huffed and turned around. 'I'm listening.' 'I don't care what's gone before, and I don't care whether you and Rhydian get back together or not. But this? All of this? It's just not right, it's not you.'

'Who are you to decide what is "me"? I decide who I am.' Tom wasn't having this answer, trying to talk sense into his childhood friend. 'Well all this sure isn't you. It's not too late to find the old Maddy, the Maddy who people actually liked and respected. Not some actress who people just laugh at.' She seemed shaken by this comment, but continued on nevertheless.

'Well if you think that of me, I guess you're just proving my point.' 'Which is?' 'Everyone thinks that they know better. Everyone thinks that they know what my life should be. Well how about I define what my life is, and everyone else kindly just buts out? Oh, and I know Shan sent you. So you can send a message back.'

'Sure.' As he got a notebook out, she swiped it for herself, got a pen out, and wrote a message, before leaving. As Tom looked at the message, it read "The "Real" Maddy will see you in London. For what I will do, I offer no apology. You should have known when to butt out"

She then came back for a moment. 'I forgot to write something down.' 'Go on.' She then flashed her eyes. 'Tell Shan that I'll see her in the Torture Chamber. Only one of us is walking out.' This was followed by an equally-swift exit.

In the duelling zone

Maddy was first out, wearing a plain black tee instead of her usual leather. Without pageantry, she simply walked out, ignoring the immense support from the fans. As she reached the duelling zone, she didn't enter, instead waiting just outside, jogging on the spot.

Rhydian then made his entrance, carrying his title belt on his shoulder and wearing his now-signature camo jacket, his unkempt hair down past the bottom of his skull. He reached the duelling zone quickly, having not taken his gaze away from it for a second. Rhydian entered the duelling zone, but Maddy took over two minutes after before she also entered. Kalin had come down from commentary to make the introductions.

'The following is your Main Event of the WDC World Tour: Glasgow, and is a Champion vs. Champion duel under Championship Rules. Neither title is on the line in this duel however. Introducing first, she wishes to be introduced from Renegades HQ, North Shields, England. For 108 days she has been your reigning WDC Young-Gun Champion – Maddy Robinson-Cummings.' Maddy barely flinched at this introduction.

'And introducing her opponent, from Llanfair PG, Wales. For 135 days he has been your reigning WDC Champion – the Cobra, Rhydian Morris.' Rhydian raised his finger and then growled viciously. The two then finally squared up, and flashed their eyes at each other, before starting to scrap, only being separated by officials after a significant struggle.

They then started circling each other, as the fans whipped themselves up into a fever pitch. Rhydian had his right-hand man Kieran stationed just outside the duel arena to mind his back, while Maddy had Astrid doing the same for her. Eventually they activated their duel disks and began.

Champion vs. Champion Grudge Match: Maddy Robinson-Cummings LP:8000 vs. Rhydian Morris LP:8000

Turn 1: Maddy: 'Ladies first! I activate the Spell card Obedience Schooled. Because I control no monsters, I can summon three Level 2 or lower Beasts from my deck by negating their effects. I summon Explossum, Handigallop, and Moja (Atk:100, 0, 100). Now I overlay my three Level 1 monsters to build the overlay network and Xyz summon Number 54 – Lion Heart (Atk:100). I end my turn with two face-downs.'

Rhydian: 'I draw. I activate the Venom Swamp field.' As the dark and foreboding swamp stretched across the field, Maddy saw his plan immediately. 'Before you can negate it I activate R: Veil. While this is on the field, all my monsters are immune to card effects. Nice try though.' 'I summon Worm Rakuyeh (Atk:2100). I end my turn with two face-downs.' A light blue snake then shot out of the swamp and bit into Rakuyeh, spreading the poison (Rakuyeh Atk:2100-1600).

Maddy: 'You're even more stupid than I thought. I draw. I'll drop a face-down and activate Spirit Barrier. While I control a monster, I take no battle damage. Meaning I don't even need Lion Heart's materials. Attack with Pulverising Pounce!' Lion Heart charged in, and slugged away at Rakuyeh, but due to the combination of cards, only Rhydian took the damage, with him really feeling the burn as a result (Rhydian LP:8000-6500).

With this, Maddy settled slightly, seeing the advantage. 'This is stupid. It would never have come to this, all you had to do was accept that we're different people now. But because you couldn't do that one little thing, I'll have to smash you so hard you won't be coming back for seconds. I end my turn.'

Rhydian then caught Maddy by surprise. 'I activate Mystical Space Typhoon to destroy R: Veil. What is it your "daddy" teaches you – it's all about timing.' The destruction of the Veil lead to a snake biting into Lion Heart, and without the Attack points to take the venom, it was destroyed.

Rhydian: 'I draw. I'll tribute Rakuyeh and summon Worm Queen. She may be Level 7, but only one tribute is needed if I'm tributing a Reptile-type Worm (Atk:2700). Next because you control no monsters, I can summon Hack Worm direct from my hand (Atk:400). But with Double Summon I'll tribute it and set a monster.'

'Worm Queen, do what you have to in order for her to listen.' The reptilian ruler slashes Maddy with disgusting-looking mandibles, knocking her confidence further (Maddy LP:8000-5300). 'See, it's easy. Just roll over and realise I was always right. It isn't difficult to see. I end my turn.'

Maddy: 'I'll roll over when I'm dead. I draw. I summon Kinka-Byo (Atk:100). When I do, I can revive a Level 1 monster from my graveyard. I choose Handigallop (Atk:0). Now I'll discard Level 1 Bunilla to summon Egotistical Ape (Atk:1200). With Egotistical Ape's effect, I'll reduce it's Level by that of Bunilla (Level:5-4).'

'Now Level 4 Egotistical Ape tunes Level 1 Handigallop, so I can summon the storm of the plains – Thunder Unicorn (Atk:2200).' 'Cute. Really cute.' 'Thunder Unicorn has an effect worth watching. For every Beast on my field, your Queen loses 500 Attack.' Unicorn's lightning horn doubled in size as it shot static like a lightning rod, paralysing Rhydian's strong monster (Atk:2700-1700).

'Thunder Unicorn, attack with Thunder Spear!' Maddy's steed nobly rode in, and crashed through Worm Queen, Maddy's wild power seeing Rhydian get speared right in the ribs and then shocked (Rhydian LP:6500-6000). As Rhydian struggled to breathe, a clearly off colour Maddy started losing her will.

'I'm sorry, that really wasn't meant to happen.' Seeing a weakness, her opponent pounced. 'It's fine. I forgive you Maddy. Deep down, I know that you still care.' Angered by this comment, she suddenly went into reckless abandon mode. 'You're in for it! I activate R: Replay. This allows me to attack again with Thunder Unicorn.' She then went totally wide-eyed. 'This one will be deliberate CHARGE!'

Thunder Unicorn charged straight in, ramming into Rhydian's face-down monster (Worm Noble Def.:2400). The reckless attack took it's toll, as Rhydian was on the ground from the power, his entire body shuddering due to the electricity.

As medics came to check on the WDC Champion, the Young-Gun Champion was still seeing nothing but red mist, and speared all four medics, one of them being knocked out from the impact, as Rhydian got back up, still shuddering and clearly past his best. 'You think that's going to stop me? When Worm Noble is flipped in battle, you lose half of your monster's Attack in points.'

Worm Noble stood gallantly as two shadows crept from underneath it, and sucker punched her, knocking her own points to barely above half (Maddy LP:5300-4200). 'I end my turn and Kinka-Byo returns to my hand.' The venomous field spell then attached a snake to Thunder Unicorn and Worm Noble (Noble Atk:1500-1000, Unicorn Atk:2300-1800).

Rhydian: 'I draw. I activate Snake Rain. By discarding a card, I can stack my graveyard with four Reptiles. Now I activate Monster Reborn to revive Vennominon, the King of Poisonous Snakes (Atk:?). And just like I used to help you with your homework' 'Help with homework? Bollocks! You never did your homework! It got to the point where I had to let you copy mine.'

'When you'll let me finish, just like back then, I'll give you a gentle reminder. Vennominon gains 500 Attack for every Reptile in my graveyard. There's five currently (Atk:2500). Attack Thunder Unicorn.' Vennominon shot out gallons of poison from the mouths of his minons, but Spirit Barrier protected Maddy's points. 'Now I activate Book of Moon to force Worm Noble to go back to sleep. I end my turn with a face-down.'

Maddy: 'I draw. I activate the Field spell Wolverine Jungle.' The swamp was still on Rhydian's field, but it was concreted up on Maddy's side to create an urban jungle, with various animals hiding around it and behind various bits of greenery. 'Now for it's special attribute. When I use this, I can add a Level 5 or lower Beast to my hand. I choose Plague Wolf.'

'Next I use Wolverine Jungle's 2nd effect. With it, I can Normal summon Level 5 monsters without tribute. So I summon Plague Wolf (Atk:1600). Plague Wolf, attack Worm Noble.' The disease-ridden beast charged, slamming into the face-down monster. 'Because of Worm Noble's effect, you lose 800 Life points (Maddy LP:4200-3400).'

'You know what they say, pay to play. Because any monster Plague Wolf battles is automatically destroyed.' Plague Wolf's disease spread to Worm Noble, consuming it. 'I end my turn. During the End phase, Plague Wolf spreads it's germs by summoning another Beast from my graveyard. I choose Thunder Unicorn.'

As the Unicorn appeared, flies started hovering over it. 'Because it was summoned by Plague Wolf, Thunder Unicorn is given three Plague Counters. As long as it has a plague counter, it destroys any monster it battles with. I activate Mystical Space Typhoon to destroy your Swamp and end my turn with a face-down.'

Rhydian: 'I draw. You really want to tell "daddy" up there to stop teaching me tricks. I activate my face-down Chain Material. This turn, if I'm Fusion summoning, I can use monsters from my deck as materials. Of course, I need a Fusion card for that.' He then revealed Polymerisation in his hand.

'Handy I've got one. I'll fuse together Worm Ugly, Worm Queen, Worm Warlord, Worm Xex, and Worm Yagan to summon Worm Zero (Atk:?). It gains 500 Attack for every Worm used to summon it. With five used, that's' '2500. I don't need to be taught how to count (Atk:2500).' 'But you do need to be taught about stranger danger?'

'I told you, I've known him years.' 'You should have reported him to the police that first time. Doesn't matter though, soon you're going to be safe with me.' 'I'll tell you what you need to be taught. Chain Material banishes the materials and you can't attack the turn you use it. Plus, your monster is destroyed at the End phase.'

'That's not going to happen, because I activate Dimensionhole. This removes Worm Zero from my field until my next Standby phase, but it will keep it's Attack points. For now, I'll throw a face-down and end my turn. You'll be safe soon. Just listen to me for once. I love you Maddy.'

Maddy: 'For the last time, I don't need saving. I draw. I activate Sabatiel the Philospher's Stone. By paying half my Life points (Maddy LP:3400-1700), I can switch this card with any card in my deck and activate that. I choose Marriage at Burial. This allows me to banish Fusion materials from my graveyard in order to summon a Fusion monster. I banish Plague Wolf and Moja to Fusion summon Wolf Chimera (Atk:1000).'

'Chimera has a special effect. When it's summoned, I can pay 1000 Life points (Maddy LP:1700-700), and in return, Chimera gains the Attack of it's materials until the End phase (Atk:1000-2900). Even better, it lets me banish a Spell card from my graveyard and add another one to my hand. I choose Pre-Preperation of Rites. And by activating it, I can not only add a Ritual Spell to my hand, but also a Ritual monster listed on that card.'

In the entranceway, Blair was taking a very keen interest in the duel. 'Yes! Now she can finish him off this turn.' But then, Maddy stopped as she was about to activate her Spell card. 'What's she doing?' Maddy looked around, saw everyone, but saw nobody. She kept thinking about what had been said to her.

'Wolf Chimera, attack Vennominon.' The Chimera rushed in while glowing a multitude of different colours, and sharp fangs pierced through the snake king, dethroning him (Rhydian LP:6000-5600). 'When Vennominon is destroyed, I can banish one of his minions from my graveyard and revive him (Def.:0).

'Thunder Unicorn, attack!' The diseased Unicorn stormed in, and went straight through the king. 'I'll banish another Reptile to revive Vennominon again (Atk:1500).' 'I end my turn with a face-down.' In the entranceway, Blair was stood in disbelief. 'It's almost like she's frozen in fear.'

Rhydian: 'I draw. During my Standby phase, Worm Zero returns (Atk:2500). I activate Snake Deity's Oracle. This returns all banished Reptiles to my graveyard, but they are banished again during the End phase. And that powers up Vennominon (Atk:1500-5000). I also activate Double Cyclone. It destroys my face-down and your Spirit Barrier.' With the Barrier gone, Rhydian had his target in sight. 'Destroy Thunder Unicorn with Fanged Venom!' The snakes surged straight at the rotting Unicorn, which had no way to defend itself, and burst in a cloud of purple venom (Maddy LP:700-0).

Victorious, Rhydian held his belt up in the air, but clearly in pain, he didn't have anything to say to Maddy, who was sat there, head in hands, as Astrid ran out for her. The show ended with Rhydian clutching at his neck as Kieran lifted his arm while Maddy continued to sit there in dismay.

With the show off the air, three doctors in lab coats, including the mysterious man Maddy had turned down several times previously grabbed her and went to inject her, only for Maddy's wolf to wake up again, and she escaped from them, before scratching the man who had apparently been following her. As she and Astrid escaped, Rhydian shouted at her. 'You will come home Maddy!'

Next time: Maddy has to find a second wind, Rio faces her fears, and the M18 Connection are out for blood in Renegades: A New Dawn Chapter XXIX: The True Nightmare