Renegades: A New Dawn

Chapter XXXVI: The Ultimate Challenge Part 3

'Thank you for bearing with us. We're up to the penultimate duel now. Coming up, we have Mitch.' As he stepped forward like the others before him, his opponent was revealed. 'Throughout the course, you've prided yourself on battling through any situation you might be up against, and constantly digging in. People may question your raw talent, but nobody will question your commitment. These are qualities which your opponent also possesses. Which is rather fitting. It gives me great pride to tell you that your opponent, duelling competitively for the first time since beating cancer, is Kris Travis.'

Mitch laughed, and as Kris walked onto the battlefield, everyone present gave him a rousing round of applause. The brothers then came face-to-face. 'Long time no duel Kristoffer.' 'Same to you Mitchell. Or as mom calls you, Mitchy Moo.' 'I thought we agreed never to mention that.' 'Sorry bro.' 'So how's the recovery?' 'Yeah, good dude. How's Mom?' 'She's good. Going a bit senile though, have to tell her twenty times every day that you don't live in Salem anymore.'

'None of us do. She seriously doesn't remember relocating?' 'Apparently not. I thought Boston was pretty distinctive.' 'Same here, but she keeps insisting on me getting the milk from Benny's.' 'You mean the Benny's that closed down in 2002?' 'The one and only.' Rio then interrupted. 'This catch-up is lovely and all, but some of us need to get to bed tonight.' With this complaint ringing in their ears, they began.

The Ultimate Challenge Match 9 Duel 1: Mitch Travis LP:8000 vs. Kris Travis LP:8000

Turn 1: Kris: 'You can go first if you like.' 'Thanks bro. I draw. I summon XX-Saber Boggart Knight (Atk:1900). When he comes out, he gets some backup from X-Saber Anu Piranha (Atk:1800).' 'Nice move, but your board ain't scary.' Kris smiled listening to this. 'Should have told me you wanted more. I activate One for One. By discarding one card, I can summon X-Saber Palomuro (Atk:100). Level 1 Palomuro, tune to Level 4 Boggart Knight, to Synchro summon X-Saber Wayne (Atk:2100).'

'Then Wayne's effect. He can special summon a Level 4 or below Warrior from my hand. Meet my Grappler Angler (Atk:100). It can now tune with Level 5 Wayne and Level 4 Anu Piranha, to Synchro summon Leo, Keeper of the Sacred Tree (Atk:3100). I end my turn with a face-down. How's that for scary!' As he ended his turn, everyone applauded, and Kris raised his hand.

Mitch: 'Let's turn up the heat. I draw. I summon Infernoble Knight - Ogier (Atk:1500). Then I'll activate the effect of Infernoble Knight - Renaud, to summon it as a Tuner (Atk:500). Now Level 1 Renaud tunes to Level 4 Ogier. Grab your sword and lead the charge, Infernoble Knight Captain Oliver (Atk:2000).' Kris smirked, not intimidated by his brother's deck. 'Someone's been working hard. Last I knew your deck was slower than the titanic.'

'Well that was last time. This time I came to win. And win is exactly what I'll do when Oliver is equipped with Noble Arms - Clarent. If I pay 500 points (Mitch LP:8000-7500), Oliver can attack you directly. Lead the charge with Burning Blade.' Oliver bravely charged in with his sword ablaze, and cleaved into Kris' life points, stopping with his sword pointed at the Renegade's throat (Kris LP:8000-7000). After this though, Mitch had a rather unusual plan.

'During Main Phase 2, I'll activate the effect of Infernoble Knight Oliver. By pitching Fire Flint Lady, I can summon Oliver but reduce his Level to 1 (Atk:1000, Level:4-1). Then I can tune them to Synchro summon Goyo Guardian (Atk:2800). I end my turn with a face-down.'

Kris - 'I draw. You clearly have something planned, because you wouldn't waste Goyo when I have a stronger monster. Let's see what you're up to - I activate Mind Haxorz. This allows me to see the last card in your hand, and your face-down. I only have to pay a few points (Kris LP:7000-6500).' As Kris got an eyeful of the cards, he laughed. 'You really thought you'd get Storming off on me? Was I born yesterday?'

'I wasn't expecting to get it off, but I thought it might make you second guess yourself.' 'Well good job I've got Cosmic Cyclone. Means giving up another chunk (Kris LP:6500-5500), but your Mirror Force is banished.' With the face-down gone, Kris decided to go for a quick win. 'I activate Snatch Steal. This steals your Goyo Guardian, but you gain 1000 Life points during each of my Standby phases. Now both my monsters will slam your points.' The points Kris had paid during the turn paid off nicely as the two monsters crashed into his brother for a tasty total (Mitch LP:8000-2100). 'I end my turn.'

Mitch: 'My turn. I'll summon Infernoble Knight Ogier (Atk:1500).' 'What good's he going to do on an empty board?' 'On his own, nothing. But what's a soldier without his weapon?' 'Smarter?' 'Nope. I equip Oliver with Infernoble Arms - Durendal.' A large glass container rose from the ground, contained within, a red sword with red bat-like wings around the hilt. Oliver picked the sword up, and immediately planted it in the ground, where it exploded.

'What was that?' 'When I activate Durendal, I can add a Level 5 or below Fire-attribute Warrior from my deck to my hand, and then destroy the sword. I choose Valkyrian Knight.' As the flames died down, Mitch had another surprise. 'Now how about Monster Reborn? It brings back Valkyrian Knight (Atk:1900). But before you can get used to him, the warrior will become the weapon.'

'Didn't realise you'd gone all soft and mushy.' 'No chance of that. The effect of Captain Oliver activates in the graveyard. I can revive it as a Tuner by equipping Valkyrian Knight to it, as an equip card giving it 500 Attack (Atk:2000-2500). Now Level 5 Captain Oliver, tune to Level 4 Ogier. With this summon I'm going to change the game, so prepare to fall. Take arms, Infernoble Knight Emperor Charles (Atk:3000).'

'Charles, attack Goyo Guardian with Satan's Sword.' Charles lifted his blue, lightning-like sword, and sliced through the Guardian with the greatest of ease (Kris LP:5500-5300). 'I end my turn.' 'All that and Leo's still stronger.' 'Don't worry, I've got something for that. During the End phase, Charles can equip Durendal from the graveyard, and Infernoble Knight Ogier from my deck, gaining 500 Attack (Atk:3000-3500).'

While that was going on, Alex was winding her adoptive step-sister up. 'I'm enjoying this. That Oliver, he's a real looker, don't you think?' Blair looked round, surprised. 'Pardon?' 'Oliver. He's a real hottie, if you get what I mean. Wouldn't you like to hook up with him?' She just shrugged. 'Wrong gender dumbass.'

Kris: 'I might need to rethink this one. I draw.' He then came upon a solution. 'I like it. I'll go straight to Main Phase 2.' 'Sure, be my guest.' 'Then I'll activate De-Synchro.' 'Yeah, nice try. I'll just activate Sword Reflection. Because I control a Warrior monster, your effect now has to target a monster on your field instead.' Kris then laughed to himself. 'Hey, what you laughing at?'

'It's just ironic man - I was targeting my own monster anyway. Why do you think I waited until Main Phase 2?' Mitch just shrugged. 'Dunno, thought you lost concentration.' 'Figures. Say goodbye to Leo, and hello to X-Saber Wayne, XX-Saber Anu Piranha, and Grappler Angler (Atk:2100, 1800, 100).' 'Don't see how it helps you.' 'You'll see when I summon XX-Saber Emmersblade (Atk:1300). Now Level 1 Grappler Angler, tune to Level 3 Emmersblade and Level 4 Anu Piranha. Power on through, Colossal Fighter (Atk:2800).'

'Nice move. Too bad he isn't big enough.' 'Have you never watched any duel? There's always an ability. Colossal Fighter starts out at 2800, but for every Warrior in either graveyard, he gains 100 more.' As the number "10" flashed up on the scoreboards, the fighter gained much power (Atk:2800-3800). 'Now attack Emperor Charles.' Mitch had no response as his mightiest monster got taken down effortlessly (Mitch LP:2100-1800). 'I end my turn.'

Mitch: 'My draw.' He then looked over at Kris, and nodded. 'You got this one bro.'

With the first duel coming to a sudden conclusion, siding began. And Kris seemed rather satisfied with his work. While Sakura checked him over, he took a glug of water and a couple of peanuts, as Phil walked over. 'Not a bad start.' 'Yeah, thought I was decent. Could have been a little sharper here and there, but I guess that comes with time.' 'Changing anything?' 'Don't think so. Thing is with Mitchell, he doesn't bother paying attention to what anybody else is doing. He's too lost in his own head.'

Meanwhile, Mitch was rueing his missed opportunity with Mike. 'I had him on the ropes. If I'd just been a little bit less show-offey, I could have taken him there.' But the New Yorker was having none of it. 'Shoulda woulda coulda. I coulda beaten Hannah if she didn't have a turn from the gods. Point is, I didn't. Same with you. Just focus on what you can control.'

He then looked over and saw Kris sat, waiting. 'Look at him - he ain't changing a thing. Which means you know what he's got. But he don't know what you got. Whatever you're changing, look like you're changing more. Put some doubt in him.' 'Kris don't think like that. He knows exactly what I'm using now and he knows how to deal with it. Or at least he thinks he does.'

Back in the field, Kris was confident about his chances. 'You took an awfully long time.' 'So? No rule against it.' 'Wholesale changes then?' 'Perhaps.' 'Just so you know, I'm still going to beat you no matter what you have.' 'Oh really? What makes you say that Mr. Big Shot?' 'Well for starters, I'm a better duellist than you. Secondly, I've had my deck longer than three weeks.' This surprised Mitch.

'How do you know how long I've had the deck?' 'You've been sending me texts about it all week.' 'I never!' Kris then looked round at Phil for permission to get his phone out, which was granted with a simple nod. Mitch read the texts in disbelief. 'I never sent any of these.' Kris shrugged. 'Well I don't know. All I know is it could have been worse.' 'How?' 'I could have read the decklist you sent me by email.'

Mitch then suddenly stared at Kenzie and Denzil, who were giggling like children on the sidelines. 'Seriously guys? I trust you with my phone for five minutes, and suddenly this happens. Why lie to me?' Kenzie then responded while laughing breathlessly. 'I didn't lie! My phone was dead. To be fair I would have done it to Denzil if he'd given me his phone.' Mitch shook his head, and activated his duel disk. 'This time it's personal.'

The Ultimate Challenge Match 9 Duel 2: (0) Mitch Travis LP:8000 vs. (1) Kris Travis LP:8000

Turn 1: Kris: 'You can go first.' 'Whatever you want bro. I draw. I'll call up Boggart Knight first (Atk:1900).' 'HIm again.' 'And when he's summoned, he'll bring along his plus one - Anu Piranha (Atk:1800).' 'Her again.' 'Now I'll activate a Spell - Natural Tune. It turns a Normal monster I control into a Tuner. And guess what Anu Piranha is! Now I'll tune Level 4 Anu Piranha to Level 4 Boggart Knight into Colossal Fighter (Atk:2800-3000). I'll set two and end my turn.'

Mitch: 'I draw. I'm starting strong with Infernoble Knight Oliver (Atk:1000). Then because I already control his comrade, Renaud enters the fray (Atk:100). But they're stronger if they combine their powers! I tune Level 4 Oliver to Level 1 Renaud to Synchro summon Infernoble Knight Captain Roland (Atk:2000). And I'll activate his effect for later.' 'Am I supposed to be impressed?'

'Not yet. But after Rekindling, you should be.' 'Well you've learned something then at least.' 'This revives as many monsters as possible from my graveyard, as long as they're Fire monsters with 200 Defence. Be reborn, Oliver and Renaud (Def.:200)x2. And then, I'll Synchro again! I tune Level 4 Oliver to Level 1 Renaud, and Level 5 Captain Roland! Lead the charge, Infernoble Knight Emperor Charles (Atk:3000).'

'Then I'll activate Heritage of the Chalice. This searches out either a Noble Knight or a Noble Arms card. I choose Noble Arms - Caliburn, to give 500 more Attack to Charles (Atk:3000-3500). More importantly, it triggers Charles' effect to destroy Colossal Fighter.' But again, Kris was a step ahead. 'Like I didn't see that one coming. I activate R:Veil. This stops you from destroying Colossal Fighter with card effects.'

'Who cares when I can just carve it up?' The Fighter was indeed mighty, but the attack power of Charles was slightly more impressive (Kris LP:8000-7500). 'Gone but not forgotten.' 'Don't get all mushy with me.' 'Ok, well he's not going for long. Whenever Colossal Fighter is destroyed, he resurrects a Warrior from my graveyard. Himself included! (Atk:3000).' 'Wait, so you're telling me if I destroy him, he just comes back.' 'Yeah, that's about the sum of it.' 'Fine, I'll just have to make sure your life points don't survive. I end my turn with a face-down. During the End phase, I can use Roland's effect to send Infernoble Arms - Joyeuse to the grave and add Astolfo to my hand.'

Kris: 'Who says I'll give you the chance to beat me? I summon XX-Saber Boggart Knight (Atk:1900). And he summons another X-Saber from my hand. Meet XX-Saber Fulhelmknight (Atk:1300). Now I'll tune Level 4 Boggart Knight to Level 3 Fulhelmknight in order to summon Driven Daredevil (Def.:2100, CF Atk:3100).' 'So you pumped your monster up by 100 points for no reason.' 'Seems that way. I'll switch Colossal Fighter to Defence mode (Def.:1000), and end my turn.'

Mitch: 'I draw. I'll come straight at your Driven Daredevil with Charles.' The mighty emperor went to cleave through the Daredevil, but it held firm, absorbing all of the assault. 'Just die already!' 'Driven Daredevil can't be destroyed in battle if it's battling a monster of higher attack. But it does destroy your monster.' The Daredevil fought back, and skewered Charles with its swords, destroying it.

By this point, Mitch was starting to see that he was outmatched. 'I'll activate Monster Reborn to bring back Emperor Charles (Atk:3000). I end my turn with a face-down.'

Kris: 'I draw. I'll switch Driven Daredevil into Attack mode (Atk:2400), and attack Emperor Charles with Colossal Fighter.' 'Yeah, thought as much. I activate Blazing Mirror Force. This destroys both your monsters, then we both take half their combined Attack as damage. That's 2750. But more importantly, you're losing both your monsters.' As Mitch gloated however, Kris had other ideas.

'I'll give you one thing - you're persistent. But that ain't winning you any awards against Assault Mode Activate.' The elder sibling stared straight on as his brother continued to fortify his advantage. 'This tributes my Colossal Fighter, so I can evolve it into Colossal Fighter - Assault Mode (Atk:3300). And it allows me to send two Warriors to the graveyard - X-Sabers Pashuul and Axel.' 'Doesn't matter, it goes down just the same. In fact, the damage increases.' The activated Trap resolved, and both of Kris' monsters burned up in the flames (Mitch LP:8000-5150, Kris LP:7500-4650).'

'You just set yourself up for more damage.' 'Oh I know, but because my Assault Mode monster was destroyed, I can bring back Colossal Fighter (Atk:3400).' 'Well I ain't done. I'll equip Charles with Mage Power. I have one Spell or Trap on my field, so Charles gains 500 Attack (Atk:3000-3500). Now tear down his Fighter.' The constant attacking continued strong as the Infernoble Emperor chipped away at Kris (Kris LP:4650-4550). 'I'll just bring my Fighter straight back to the field (Atk:3400).' 'Yeah, figured as much. I'll just end my turn there in that case.'

Kris: 'I draw. I activate Mirage of Nightmare. So during your Standby phase, I can draw until I have four cards in hand. Then during my next Standby phase, I have to randomly discard the amount I drew.' Mitch wasn't falling for the high-risk plan though. 'Let me guess, is Mirage going to leave the field before my next Standby?' 'Maybe. Enjoy finding out.' 'Yeah, I'm not sure I'm going to "enjoy" it.' 'Well that's a pity isn't it? Perhaps complain to mom and see if she'll stop it.' 'Funny.'

Kris just smirked. 'You're not exactly chatty.' 'Easy for the professional duelist to say. This ain't so natural to all of us.' The younger brother laughed at the thought. 'Natural? You think this is natural? You can't see how hard I'm having to work here. When I came here, I was probably the worst duelist here. I'll set three and end my turn.'

Mitch: 'I draw.' 'During the Standby, I draw four cards. Then I'll activate Fairy Wind.' 'Seriously?' 'Yeah. It destroys every face-up Spell or Trap on the field, and for each one, we both take 300 damage. So that's 600 away (Mitch LP:5150-4550, Kris LP:4550-3950).' 'Yeah, big deal. I activate my face-down Fiery Fervor. Because Colossal Fighter's current attack is higher than he original Attack stat of my Emperor, his attack is doubled during the Damage Step. Now attack.'

Charles came roaring in, and as the Fervor went into activation, he roared up in flames (Atk:3000-6000), executing the Fighter and coming close to delivering a finishing blow (Kris LP:3950-1350). 'My Fighter just won't go down for the count. He's coming back one more time (Atk:3400).' 'During my Main phase 2, I'll activate Infernal Chain. So in two turns, I can tribute Charles and deal you with damage equal to his Level x 400. That's a helluva lot more than your remaining points. I end my turn.'

Kris: 'Fine, I draw. I activate Assault Mode Activate! This tributes the Colossal FIghter for Colossal Fighter/Assault Mode (Atk:3300). And he'll send two more Warriors to my graveyard on summon. But he isn't staying, because I activate Assault Slash. This destroys all the monsters on the field.' Kris' trap laid waste to the field, with his own monster turning into a nuclear-level bomb.

'Because my Assault Mode monster left the field, it revives the monster used to summon it. Return, Colossal Fighter (Atk:3800). Then I'll activate Axe of Despair, giving my monster 1000 more Attack (Atk:3800-4800). Now attack for match.' Desperately, Mitch tried to cling on. 'I'll counter with Jelly Cannon, to shuffle your Colossal Fighter back into your deck.' Kris seeing this, shrugged. 'If you'd had that last turn we'd be going to a decider. But not after I activate Solemn Judgement. It costs half of my remaining points (Kris LP:1350-675), but in return, it can stop your Trap.'

Still not giving in, Mitch had one final play. 'I'll chain Wiretap. That shuffles your Solemn back into the deck.' 'Yeah, sorry bro. Second Judgement. I'll pay another half (Kris LP:675-328), and finish you off.' As the chain resolved, the resistance was finally broken, and Kris' Fighter smashed into Mitch's points (Mitch LP:4550-0).

Before the final duel began, a tired and drained-looking Rio quietly went up to Blair. 'Hey B.' 'Hey, if you don't mind me saying, you look awful.' 'I'm thinking of going to bed.' 'You sure you're ok? It's only half 5. Listen, I'm sorry that I got so annoyed over that turkey' 'It's not that. I've been having some trouble with my left eye, I keep getting blurring in it. I'm struggling to see at times.' 'Well you just go and look after yourself then.'

As she left, Phil came back in for the last duel. 'We've finally reached the final duel of the Ultimate Challenge. The only person yet to be put to the test is Myka.' She stepped up, seemingly with no idea who she might be facing. 'Myka, your technical skills are unmatched here, but you appear to suffer in terms of temperament. Therefore, I've chosen an opponent who matches your skill, but mates that with a will to win. Also, I just really wanted to see this duel. Your opponent is your old rival, Astrid.'

This announcement set tongues wagging, and Blair immediately looked around. 'Could someone fetch me some popcorn please? And maybe a beer?' Phil was just about to warn Blair about drinking on the job when he saw a can of lager fly past his face, courtesy of Maddy, who was quite clearly drunk by now. She then threw a second, but the aim of this one was even worse, as it smacked Astrid in the back of the head as she stood up, prompting the blonde to turn around, grab Maddy by the collar, and drag her out of the arena. 'Go to bed, you're drunk. I'll talk to you when you're sober.'

As she walked back in, Sakura came over to her. 'Sure you're ok to compete?' 'Yeah I'm fine. Listen, can I ask you about something?' 'Sure.' 'My entire right side is totally numb - I've been having the issue on and off for a couple of days. I thought it was just a nerve thing but I'm now worried about my neck.' The doctor had a quick think and came up with an idea. 'How about you see how it goes overnight. It might be a trapped nerve, but if it's still bothering you tomorrow, I'll run a few tests with you.' 'Thank you.'

She then stepped up to the plate. 'Mika, it's been a while.' 'Never thought I'd get the chance to duel you again after you upped and left overnight.' 'Overnight? I told you a month before. I'd beaten everyone there. Including you. Four times.' 'I'm way better now. When you left, I dominated. In a way you never did, even after you were the only one left. You ain't as good as Blair, you ain't as good as Caprice, and I'm now going to prove that you're not even fit to fit my duel disk.'

This appeared to motivate Astrid a bit more. 'Always your issue. Your mouth talks but your actions don't deliver.' She then whispered down the ear of her opponent. 'I don't talk - I win.' She wandered back, activated her duel disk, and swept her long hair to the side. 'Get ready to get embarrassed Astrid.' 'Try it. It's time to ride!'

The Ultimate Challenge Match 10 Duel 1: Myka Grainger LP:8000 vs. Astrid Hofferson LP:8000

Turn 1: Myka: 'I'll take the first turn. I activate the Field spell Kozmotown.' An expansive city with an emerald hue appeared, with burning red skies and wide open roads. 'Next I'll summon Kozmo Strawman (Atk:500), and end my turn with two set backrow. Try not to take too long on your turn by the way - we've got homes to go to.'

Astrid: 'You talk, I'll win. Draw. I summon Valkyrie of the Nordic Ascendant (Atk:400). And because she is alone on my field while you control a monster, I banish two Tanngrisnirs from my hand for two Einherjar Tokens (Atk:1000)x2. Now Level 2 Valkyrie, tune to Level 4 Einherjar Tokens.' Astrid then said a traditional prayer to mark her monster's arrival.

'Den allseende og allmektige kongen som styrer himmelen til Nordstjernen. Vis nå din makt som hersker over Asgards guder! Synkroinnkallelse! Hersk over himmelens og jordens guder! Den høyeste gud, Polarguden Den hellige keiseren Odin! [The all-seeing and all-powerful king who rules the heavens of the North Star. Now, show your might that reigns over the Gods of Asgard! Synchro Summon! Rule over the gods of heaven and earth! The highest god, Odin, Father of the Aesir] (Atk:4000).'

'Going big are we?' 'Something like that. Because I control an Aesir monster, I'll give you a monster - Jormungardr the Nordic Serpent (Atk:3000).' As the gargantuan serpent coiled around her, Myka looked on guard. 'I remember this card.' 'You should do - last time you lost to it. Odin, strike down the man of straw, send him back to the farm he came from.' 'Yeah, not happening. Strawman's effect allows me to banish it and summon Kozmo Dark Destroyer from my hand (Atk:3000).'

'And when Dark Destroyer arrives, it destroys a card on the field. Hope you weren't getting attached to the old man.' Myka smiled briefly, but then saw Astrid, whose gaze had stayed identical. 'Bad news - I activate the effect of Ghost Mourner and Moonlit Chill in my hand.' The Canadian was left shocked and confused by the move. 'I've never seen that card in my life.' 'I can activate it if you Special summon a monster, to negate its effect. Now I'll come straight after Dark Destroyer.'

The replay occurred, and Odin struck down the jet black spaceship with a fierce thunderbolt, dealing the first blow (Myka LP:8000-7000). 'The effect of Ghost Mourner. When the afflicted monster dies, you lose Life equal to its Attack.' A further bolt of lightning struck the field, this one chilling the atmosphere, as Myka's points tumbled to half of their original value (Myka LP:7000-4000).

'Well Dark Destroyer has an effect as well. When it's destroyed, I banish it to summon a lower Level Kozmoll from my deck. I summon Kozmo Dark Lady (Atk:2200).' 'Summon whatever you like, for I shall not fall. I end my turn with one face-down.' Astrid may have made a good start, but by the look on her face, she was in very clear discomfort.

Myka: 'Looks like I might just have to outlast you. I draw. I activate the effect of Kozmotown. I can return the banished Strawman to my hand, but at the cost of 100 Life points per Level (Atk:500, Myka LP:4000-3800). Then I use the effect of Kozmo Strawman, to pay 500 points (Myka LP:3800-3300), and bring back my banished Dark Destroyer. It loses all its abilities though and self-destructs when my turn ends (Atk:3000).'

'Not that it matters. All I have to do is activate the effect of Strawman to banish itself for another Dark Destroyer (Atk:3000). Stop this one. Sidious Scimitar Shoot!' 'Activate Effect Veiler from my hand. It stops your Dark Destroyer.' Myka's plan seemingly failed again, as the male sprite blocked the onslaught from Dark Destroyer, before feathers bound to the ship, nullifying its effects.

'Well it's a good job I came prepared then. I'll overlay my two monsters in order to Xyz summon Number 22 - Zombiestein (Atk:4500).' Astrid seemed impressed by the move. 'You always did prioritise power over skill.' 'Well you only get 8000 Life. And you don't get style points. Zombiestein, attack.' Astrid looked at the cards in her grasp, and then opted to take the attack, as Odin fell to the powerful monster (Astrid LP:8000-7500). 'That's a start. I'll set one and then pass to you.' 'During the End phase, I banish Valkyrie of the Nordic Ascendant from my grave so Odin may live. Rise from your grave! (Atk:4000). And when he does, I draw a card.'

Astrid: 'I draw. I activate Misfortune. In exchange for my Battle phase this turn, I can deal damage equal to half of Zombiestein's Attack points.' The Rank 8 Zombie started showing clear signs of decay, and pieces fell off, striking Myka's points hard (Myka LP:4000-1750). 'I end my turn with a set.'

Myka: 'I draw. I'll equip Zombiestein with Xyz Unit, giving it 1600 more Attack. How's that for power? (Atk:4500-6100).' 'You're really going for it.' 'Yeah, I'm going for it alright. I'm more than just yours, Blair's, and Caprice's whipping dog. I'm as good a duelist as any of you, but it never gets acknowledged. If smashing you around is what I have to do, I'll happily do it. Because now I activate Megamorph. This will double the Attack of my monster (Atk:6100-12,200). Now Zombiestein, attack with Spectral Fist.'

Myka then looked up, and saw that her Life points had all depleted (Myka LP:1750-0). 'What the f**k?' She then saw a Trap up on Astrid's field. 'Zero Gravity?' It was this moment when she put the pieces together, as Astrid explained. 'Zero Gravity changes every monster's Battle position (Odin Def.:3500, Zombiestein Def.:1500, Jormundgardr Atk:3000). And when Jormungardr changes battle position, you take 3000 damage.'

Astrid then returned to the siding area, where she took the unusual step of punching herself in the arm repeatedly, concerning Hannah. 'I might regret asking this, but what the hell are you doing?' The viking looked up, showing a sense of fear for once. 'My entire right side, I can feel almost nothing.' 'And how long has it been?' 'I've had issues for a few months, but it's gotten really bad in the past week or so. I spoke to Sakura and she's going to have a look tomorrow. I'll be fine. Just need to get the thing working.'

While this was going on, Myka was working on a new strategy. 'I didn't account for her changing her deck up. The good thing is she's not exactly one for siding things out, so I know she's on the Synchro strat. Meaning I know how to counter it. Now let's just hope she doesn't have any more surprises in store.'

Eventually, Astrid returned to the duelling zone, with Myka waiting. 'What took you so long? Not like you were siding anything.' 'It's none of your concern. All you need to worry about is beating me.' The two duellists drew, and then Myka looked over at Phil. 'I'm going second this time.' As the duel began, Sakura briefed Hannah on Astrid's neck issues.

'So I've been thinking, and I went back through her medical records. She suffered a fractured neck in Texas.' 'I thought they'd fixed that.' 'I mean it should have fixed itself by now. But my theory is this - what if they missed something? They didn't do surgery, so there's a chance that there's a fragment of bone chipped off. And if that happened, then perhaps it's suddenly caught a nerve.'

'Would they be able to fix it?' 'I mean they can't just stick it back on with a band-aid or tape. They'd have to physically remove the fragment.' 'So they need to put her to sleep to do surgery?' 'Not really. If she allowed, they could just inject some local, and she'd be out same day all being well. But I'll have a check over her tomorrow, see if I can see anything else.'

The Ultimate Challenge Match 10 Duel 2: [0] Myka Grainger LP:8000 vs. [1] Astrid Hofferson LP:8000

Turn 1: Astrid: 'Guess I'm first. I'll set a monster, set one and pass.'

Myka: 'I draw. I'll summon Kozmo Strawman (Atk:500). But I'll banish it immediately for Kozmo DOG Fighter (Atk:2000). Then I'll activate Trap Booster. This allows me to discard one card, then activate a Trap from my hand. But if it's sent to the graveyard, it gets banished. So I'll activate Kozmourning. Now when my Kozmo destroys your monster in battle, it goes back to your deck instead of the grave. Now shoot it down.'

The DOG Fighter flew into the sky, and spun around while shooting, decimating the goat on Astrid's field (Tanngrisnir of the Nordic Beasts Def.:0). 'Exactly what I expected. Correct me if I'm wrong, but your goat can only use it's effect if sent to the grave.' 'You're correct.' 'Knew it. I end my turn with one face-down.'

Astrid: 'This one should be more interesting at least. I draw.' 'During the Standby phase, DOG Fighter summons a DOG Fighter Token to my field (Def.:2000).' 'That's fine. I'll activate my face-down Gleipnir the Fetters of Fenrir, which will add a Nordic monster to hand. I'm sure you remember Valkyrie of the Nordic Ascendent. Then I'll summon Valkyrie (Atk:400). And because I control no other cards, Valkyrie banishes two Nordics from my hand.' Immediately, Myka had a challenge. 'Show 'em. I'm not being taken for a ride.' Astrid laughed listening to this, and revealed two copies of Guldfaxe of the Nordic Beasts.

'You think that little of me?' 'No harm in being cautious.' 'Have you ever said that before? Oh, and any response?' 'None. Go ahead and bring the big man out.' Smirking, Astrid saw that her opponent had a plan. And she wasn't willing to walk into it. 'I activate Goddess Urd's Verdict. Urd is the goddess of the past and' 'Nobody asked for a history lesson!' Myka snapped, clearly not enjoying Astrid's teachings.

'Urd allows me to select a set card on your field, and declare its name. If I'm right, it is banished. Otherwise, I banish a card from my field.' 'Yeah, good luck with' 'Chaos Trap Hole.' Myka just stood, dumbfounded. 'How did you' 'Well it wasn't going to be something that destroyed Odin, because he would have returned at the End phase. Now I'll Synchro!' 'Can we skip the whole chant? I'm getting bored.'

Astrid then looked up to the roof, as if communicating with the gods themselves. 'Ikke bli fornærmet med meg, klandre fienden' (Do not be offended with me, blame the foe). 'Come to the battle, Odin, Father of the Aesir (Atk:4000). Odin, attack Kozmo DOG Fighter with Valhalla's Judgement.' Odin rained down lightning from the skies, passing judgement on the spaceship, and resulting in Myka taking a big hit (Myka LP:8000-6000). 'When DOG Fighter is destroyed, I can banish it from the graveyard and bring out Kozmo Wickedwitch from my deck (Atk:1900).' 'I'll end my turn, one set.'

Myka: 'I draw. I'll activate Sacred Sword of Seven Stars. By banishing the Level 7 Kozmo Forerunner from my hand, I draw two. Now I'll banish Level 6 Kozmo Dark Lady and Level 9 Kozmo Dark Eclipser in order to summon my big bad. You might have a god, but I've got a planet - Kozmo Dark Planet (Atk:4000).' As the two 4k attackers faced off, the atmosphere electrified. But Myka had plans of her own yet.

'Next I'll Normal summon Ally of Justice Unknown Crusher (Atk:1300). And I'll equip with Moon Mirror Shield. So now when it attacks a monster, Unknown Crusher's Attack becomes 100 higher than its opponent. Attack Odin with Voltic Violence.' The elephantine machine released a ball of electricity, which exploded upon contact with Odin (Astrid LP:8000-7900). 'And because Unknown Crusher battled a Light monster, Odin is banished!' Astrid's reaction could have been expected to be more than a grimace, but she was familiar with the strategy.

'Not bad. I knew you were better.' 'You finally get it. Dark Planet, keep up the violence with Gear Crusher.' The planetary monster rotated its gears, before throwing out two, taking a hefty chunk from Astrid's total (Astrid LP:7900-3900). 'I activate The Golden Apples. You hear about your five a day? Well these are my 4000 a day. Because when I take Battle damage with a bare field, this Trap restores the damage I just took.'

Astrid bathed in a golden glow, making her hair and skin near-blinding (Astrid LP:3900-7900). 'And to make your day worse, I now get a Malus Token with the same stats as the points I gained (Atk/Def.:4000/4000).' 'Yeah, nice job. I'm going to end my turn with a face-down.'

Astrid: 'My turn. I activate One For One. By discarding one card I summon Valkyrie Sechste (Def.:2000). When she's summoned, she summons out Valkyrie Brunhilde (Def.:2000). Then I activate Goddess Skuld's Oracle. When it's activated, if I control only Valkyries, I can add Goddess Verdande's Guidance to my hand. I end my turn.'

Myka: 'What are you up to? You wouldn't just randomly summon two monsters in Defence. I draw. I'll summon Kozmo Goodwitch (Atk:1800). Unknown Crusher, attack.' 'I activate the effect of Brunhilde. Once per turn, she sacrifices 1000 of her Defence points, and protects my Valkyries from battle for the turn.' 'Well after damage calculation, Sechste gets banished.' 'Fine, take her.' 'That's my turn.'

Astrid: 'Draw. Activate the Magic Planter spell. I'll send Urd's Verdict to the grave and draw two.' 'Well there goes your combo. Congratulations I guess.' 'If only you knew the grand design.' Astrid drew her two cards, and then shared a little smile to herself. 'I set two.' 'That's it?' Astrid just nodded.

Myka: 'I don't like the direction this is going in. I draw. I'll just attack in with Unknown Crusher.' 'I'll activate Imperial Iron Wall.' 'You devious… hang on a moment. You wouldn't have just played that from the off, you were surprised I had the same deck, which means…. You actually sided?' Astrid appeared a little confused here. 'Isn't that what siding's for?' 'Never mind, you clearly don't get it. I'll make you waste your monster's effect anyway.' 'Effect of Brunhilde (Def.:1000-0).' 'Well you can't do that again. I end my turn with one face-down.'

Astrid: 'Draw. I activate Magic Planter.' 'Again?' 'Yep. I send Verdande to the grave, draw two. Look - Magic Planter 3. Send Skuld, draw two.' 'That was… lucky.' 'Yep. Set four, pass.'

Myka: 'Right I'm done guessing what the hell you're playing at. I draw. Unknown Crusher, attack Brunhilde.' 'Go - Quaking Mirror Force. This traps all your monsters underground face-down.' 'Yeah right. I'll counter with Solemn Judgement. I pay half my points (Myka LP:6000-3000), to negate your Trap. Fancy going to the all important Game 3?' But this turned out to be a calamitous error, as Astrid had the perfect counter, and her eyes widened.

'Alt for Norge! Heksestriek!' 'What is Heksestr…' It was this moment Myka froze as she saw the card. 'Witch's Strike? Anything but Witch's Strike.' 'Because you negated my card, this destroys your entire field and everything in your hand.' The Strike resolved, and Loki randomly appeared from the Extra deck to strike the entire field with black lightning, also sniping Myka's hand. 'When Dark Planet is sent to the grave, I can banish it to add Kozmo Goodwitch to my hand.'

But it appeared to be too late. 'Because you added to your hand outside of the Draw phase, I activate Droll and Lock Bird from my hand. Now for the rest of the turn you can't add to your hand.' 'So what? I end my' 'I activate Disturbance Strategy.' 'Right, I didn't know we'd gone back to 2004 Hand Control.' 'Shuffle your hand back. You'd normally draw, but' 'I get it! For god's sake I'm not an idiot.' Astrid just smiled and said 'Debateable.' Frustrated, Myka ended her turn.

Astrid: 'I draw. I activate Nordic Relic Harmonia. If I banish a Nordic Synchro Monster and it's corresponding Tuner from the grave, I can draw two cards. And if I draw a Nordic Tuner, I reveal it and draw another two. If I don't, I shuffle all the cards back into the deck. So I'll remove Odin, Father of the Aesir and his helping hand Valkyrie of the Nordic Ascendent.' Astrid then drew her two cards, before revealing one. 'Mara of the Nordic Alfar. I draw two more.'

As she looked at the card, she looked back at Myka. 'I told you I'd throw everything at you.' 'What could you possibly do to make this any worse? In case you forgot, you went all 2004 on me.' Astrid just smiled. 'I summon Yata-Garasu (Atk:200).' Myka didn't speak, but raised her eyes to the sky, shaking her head as the crow slammed into her for minor damage (Myka LP:3000-2800). 'I end my turn.'

Myka: 'Well I suppose it's my turn.' 'Go on, make a move. I dare you.' 'You know I can't. I literally have no cards. I end my turn. But I'm not conceding.'

Astrid: 'I draw. Consider this a mercy killing - I summon Mara of the Nordic Alfar (Atk:1000). And when she's used in a Synchro summon, the other monsters are Nordic monsters in my hand. I'll tune Level 2 Mara with Level 4 Garmr of the Nordic Beasts and Level 4 Tyr of the Nordic Champions. Appear before our battle, Loki, Lord of the Aesir (Atk:3500). Loki, end the contest with Vanity Blast.' Loki's finger came off of his hand, and opened up to reveal an electrified bullet, which crashed into the ground, ending the contest (Myka LP:2800-0).

As the dust cleared, Myka was well beaten. But she took the defeat in her stride, and offered Astrid a handshake. 'You were on fire there. I've been working on my game, but you're still way above.' 'Today was a good day. I've seen you duel better, but that was pretty neat still. Just slow down a bit.' 'Yeah I know. Just heat of the moment isn't it?' 'Always has been with you.' Blair then walked over, reuniting three of the four traditional rivals.

'So are you finally turning pro Myka?' 'I don't know yet. I moved down to downtown Edmonton a few months back. I'll probably have a stab at my pro card this year, and then if I don't get it, I'll take a season off. Reassess.' 'You're more than good enough.' 'Speaking of when things are happening, when are you two finally facing off?' Astrid just looked sideways at Blair and smiled. 'Any place, any time.'

The bisexual then turned around, and extended her hand. 'If you become WDC Champion, I want the first shot.' Astrid laughed. 'I don't deal in "Ifs". When I win, you're first. Has to be Matchplay.' 'No other format would fit, would it?' They shook on their agreement and Astrid walked away. Phil then entered the centre of the arena.

'And with that, the Ultimate Challenge is over. And now for the truth.' He then went on to reveal the real purpose of the seemingly impossible challenge. 'This was not a test to see if you could beat professional duelists. Rather, this was a test of your attitudes, your deck building, and your sense of identity as a duelist. Some of you came very close to pulling off an upset. Others struggled to establish themselves. But you've all seen the standard you face. Now it's time to say who is facing who in the final exam. As you can probably see, Rio isn't here, she's not feeling too well so she's decided to leave early. As such, Hannah has kindly agreed to read out the matchups with me.'

The couple stood together, and read out the final draw. 'First of all, these are based on your overall rankings before today, taking into account the past 10 weeks. To start with, we have Fleur Murphy v. Donny Anderson.' 'Then the battle for 7th, we have Mitch Travis vs. Mike Rawlis.' 'For 5th, we will see Denzil Davis vs. Kenzie Calhoun.' 'The battle for bronze, Brooke Angharad vs. Myka Grainger.' Leaving Phil to announce the Top 2. 'So the battle for top of the class and a two year WDC Tour Card, is Jade Goocheneyad taking on Belle Draper.'

As the buzz built around the arena, Jade went up to Belle. 'Just wanted to wish you luck in the final.' Characteristically, Belle's response was frosty. 'Sure, you too.' 'Thanks. I hope it's a good duel.' By this time though, Belle had walked off. 'Someone certainly ain't friendly.' As everyone else flooded out, the Iranian held on, and as Blair turned around, she hollered her girlfriend over.

'Hey, you wanted to talk to me?' 'I just want to tell you that I'm free all day Wednesday, so… I was wondering if you fancied a meal, just the two of us? I've booked a restaurant table. I booked an Italian because I know you're awkward with food.' She then looked down, and saw Blair nervously fiddling with her fingers. 'Listen, if you don't want to that's fine, we can always reschedule or'

There then came a hoarse reply. 'I'm fine. Truth is, I'm just nervous because… I've kind of never been on a date before.' 'It's fine, I totally understand. It's a pretty new experience for me as well.' 'I guess it's a date then?' Hearing this, Jade couldn't help but jump up and down in joy. 'I'm so happy! I was really worried you'd say we're going too quick.' 'No. In fact, I think we need to go public now.' 'Really?' 'Yeah. Everyone should still be around.'

The two of them then snuck outside around the back of the base, hand-in-hand. As they reached the front, Kenzie was just about to get in a taxi, but seeing them running down, grinned, and paused with one foot in the cab, to get her phone out. 'I swear this is worth more than the course itself.' As Denzil, Myka and Fleur were in the middle of a conversation, Denzil received a text from Kenzie, which simply said "I'm about to owe you £50". He then alerted the other two.

As they looked around, Blair and Jade embraced, and then embarked on a long and tender kiss, which unbeknownst to them, was being filmed in its entirety by Kenzie. As they stopped kissing, they were suddenly met with rapturous applause, as Hannah walked out of the base. 'Right, show's over guys. Anyone not called Jade has 10 minutes to scram, otherwise I'll have you all arrested for trespass.' That cleared everyone away in double quick time, as Blair went in for a second kiss.

The next morning

Astrid was being checked over by Sakura after the previous day. 'So has there been any improvement overnight?' 'A little bit. I can feel my hand for starters. Still not great.' 'Right, I'm just about to squeeze your hands, one at a time. I need you to tell me how much you can feel the squeezing on a scale of 1 to 10. Ok?' 'Ok.' Sakura then picked up her right hand, and started squeezing it. 'How much can you feel me squeezing?' 'Atte.' 'In English please.' 'Sorry, 8.' She then did the same with the other hand.

'Let me know when you start squeezing.' 'Erm… I am doing.' 'Can't feel it.' A couple of minutes passed without any change, until Sakura had a bright idea, and started moving over Astrid's left hand. And sure enough, as she reached the ring finger, there was a change. '3.' The army medic then stood up. 'Curious. I would recommend that you go to hospital for a scan, but I've got a new deep tissue scanner coming in the next few days, so if you can hold out we can sort that here.'

Astrid just looked up to her. 'Do we have to?' 'Would you like to walk around without a permanent neck brace and be allowed to duel?' 'Well yes, but' 'There you go then, sorted. That should be through in the next week.' She then looked up, and giggled. 'Something tells me that she isn't going to be leading many revolutions today.' Astrid looked up as well, and saw a much worse for wear Maddy walking over.

'You look terrible.' 'Yeah, I don't exactly feel awesome either. Listen, I owe you such a big apology for yesterday.' 'It's fine. You can hardly have made things worse anyway.' She then looked over at Sakura. 'So what's up doc?' 'With you, probably a severe hangover and a healthy dose of regret, embarrassment, and' 'Not with me, with old viking knickers.'

'Well, the short answer is I don't know. Not for certain anyway. But I've got a working theory, a hypothesis if you will.' Sakura then went into a drawer, and whipped out a pair of red-tinted glasses with a white frame, before putting them on. 'How the hell are we supposed to take you seriously wearing those?' 'Come on, it's cool. Feel like the girl from Ace Attorney now.' 'Yeah, whatever that is. So you were saying?'

'Yep. Astrid's had a fractured neck before, right?' 'Yeah…' 'Which she didn't have surgery on.' This was apparently news to Maddy. 'You told me you had surgery?' 'I said I'd had treatment. Might surprise you to know that I don't like being cut open. Sorry, you were saying?' 'So, you didn't have surgery. I'm wondering if at sometime, a fragment of cartilage has become detached and has floated around before lodging on a nerve. It would explain why the issue has only just presented itself.'

'What would make it do that though? I just don't get it - it's not like she's been under any physical stress with her neck recently.' Astrid then looked at her. 'Ok, I have not been totally straight with you. I may have tripped the other week.' 'How?' 'Remember the night I was staying over at yours?' 'Yeah, I pissed meself because you were in the bath for about an hour. Then again, I did hear a couple of weird bangs'

'You got it. I tripped getting out of the bath.' 'And didn't think to say anything.' 'I thought I'd just broken my finger or something. But a few days after, I woke up with no feeling in my hand. Then it spread.' Sakura then put her glasses back on and took her jacket off. 'Which hand, which finger?' 'Right, and ring.' Sakura then took a look at Astrid's finger. 'Yep, you've done a number on that. That is 100% a classic fracture of the ring finger. It feels like a clean fracture though.'

'That means no surgery?' 'Yep. Although you will need to wear a thick bandage on the finger to stabilize the fracture.' Astrid was far from thrilled at the concept. 'How long for' she muttered with scorn. 'Depends how quick the finger heals. Once I've got the new scanner, I can look at your finger every week, and once the fracture has fully healed, then you can have the bandage removed. It's either that or plaster of paris. Which I don't have any of here, and would be quite expensive.'

After Astrid's finger was wrapped up, she was good to go. 'So I'll see you back here, say a week on Monday? If it is a trapped nerve, we should be able to avoid major surgery.' 'And if it is something worse?' 'It depends what exactly. If there's nothing visibly wrong then we might have to see if you've fractured your arm. If it's a broken neck, then surgery is probably unavoidable.' By the time Sakura finished speaking though, the blonde had already left, leaving a frustrated Maddy and Sakura. 'I don't get what her deal is.'

Maddy still had a question though. 'You were saying that if it's a broken neck then surgery is probably unavoidable?' 'Thought you'd want me to explain. If it's a clean fracture, and if it's small enough, we might get away with just a brace. But I wouldn't take any bets on it.' Conversation then turned to Maddy.

'So how are you feeling? Not really talked in a while.' 'Gettin' stronger in meself. It's just these ribs, the pain won't go away. I kind of wanted to talk to you about something.' 'National trials?' 'You know?' 'I know they're coming up.' 'I'm planning on competing in them.' Sakura nodded, sensing the inevitable backlash. 'I'm going to be honest with you.' Maddy looked across, nervous.

'You're going to tell me not to aren't you?' The doctor just shrugged and nodded. 'Fraid so. You're not strong enough yet. I would love you to compete, but realistically, you'd do well just to finish.' 'How far off am I? In terms of my recovery?' 'I'd estimate a few weeks. It's hard to say for certain though.' 'Hypothetically then, what happens if I ignore you and do it anyway?' Sakura just put her glasses back in the drawer. 'Don't come crying to me if it backfires. My official advice is don't push yourself too far. Because if you do, it could be game over.'

Next time: The WDC Tour resumes with a trip to India, for the WDC Title Tournament in Renegades: A New Dawn Chapter XXXVII: Tussle for the Title