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.

37. Tussle for the Title

Renegades: A New Dawn

Chapter XXXVII: Tussle for the Title

After the mid-season break, the tour was returning with a long-haul flight to India. As Phil and Hannah pulled up at the airfield, Jack met them. 'Hey, I heard about Maddy. I take it she's not here?' 'No, she's recovering from her operation still. She's at home, probably with a bucket of popcorn and a can of cheap supermarket lager. I sometimes don't know if she actually likes drinking that stuff or if she just says that to appear more working class.'

'Maddy? Appearing more working class? She's got a Northern dialect, she considers Sausages to be a breakfast staple, she considers Tikka Masala "exotic" because it's from the Midlands and spends half her time calling herself "we". I mean does she have an imaginary friend or something?' 'No, even her taste buds have abandoned her. Since she came out of hospital she's started putting brown sauce on everything.' 'That's not so bad is it?'

'On Sausages maybe. Or on bacon, or some other meat in a roll. Even hot dogs would be… vaguely understandable. But I think I draw the line at putting brown sauce on chocolate ice cream. Trust me, I meant EVERYTHING. Anyway, we've got a long flight ahead of us.' 'Yeah, I wanted to talk to you about that. The flight takes the best part of fifteen hours, so I wanted to suggest stopping off part-way.'

'Where did you have in mind?' 'I'd recommend Doha in Qatar - it's about 7 or 8 hours away. Stop off there for a couple of hours, probably refuel. How does that sound?' Phil nodded. 'That sounds pretty good thanks.' He then turned to his faithful wife. 'Hannah, could you get some of these Rupees transferred to Riyals?' She just gave him a sideways glance. 'Which one of us is 7 months pregnant again?'

'How about if you do, I'll book a table at our favourite steakhouse for next week.' Hannah nodded. 'Make it one of those window tables with the leather sofas. Oh, and pre-order a bottle of wine.' 'Red or white?' 'Do people even drink white wine?' 'Red it is then. Any other requests?' 'Who said they're requests?' She then laughed and kissed him before leaving.

Meanwhile, on the plane, Jade was boarding only to find that the only passengers were Freja and a fast asleep Astrid. 'Erm, is she ok?' Freja just laughed. 'Who - Astrid? She's fine. She's just not a good flyer, that's all. So she sleeps instead. She sleeps more on the plane than she does at night. Anyway, never mind her, how about you and lover girl?' 'What about us?' 'I heard you, chatting away in her room yesterday.'

'So?' 'Wha were you doing - whispering sweet nothings down her ear?' 'No, she was actually helping with my visa application.' 'I didn't know you didn't have one.' 'Oh I have a visa. Just not the right one as it turns out. So I just need to get a permanent residency visa.' 'When does your old one run out?' 'Not for about three months yet, but I'm not leaving it until the last minute. She's acting as a sponsor for my visa.'

Blair herself then boarded, wearing a dark blue jacket with teal trim. Below it, a plain tan shirt; around her neck, a silver cross and a sapphire and pearl amulet. Hair clipped up with her grandmother's broach, and nesting atop her head, a tan bandanna. But none of this was what Jade first noticed.

'Hey, you had your fringe put back in!' 'Did it this morning. It's a bit rough, but I was rushing somewhat.' 'Rough? It's so neat you could have someone's eye out with the tip. Is that amulet your grandmother's?' 'Yeah, Gramma gave it to me before she passed. The will's being read out in Michigan next week, and I've been asked to attend.' Jade then held her hand out. 'You know I'll be right there alongside you.'

'What did I ever do to deserve you?' Freja then stood up. 'If you two are going to get mushy then I'm moving.' 'Moving where? If you move forwards you'll have to put up with the adults flirting, move sideways and you've got Rio singing in her sleep, and at the back you've got Astrid's snoring.' Freja then started moaning. 'Why can't they be the other way round? Astrid's a great singer. Meanwhile Rio can't keep hold of a tune.'

Blair then tried to warn her. 'Fre' 'I mean it's like listening to a herd of stay cats yowling. It wouldn't be so bad if she appeared to be trying, but it's almost like it's too much like hard work to even bother. I think I'd rather listen to Phil give me a 12 hour lecture on the history of the damage step.' Freja then saw the awkward look on the faces of the girls in front of her. 'She's standing right behind me isn't she?'

Freja looked around, and Rio was stood. And she wasn't seeing the funny side. 'If you're going to insult someone, have the guts to say something to their face. I honestly thought you were better than that.' Blair then defused the situation. 'Rio, calm down. You've been super tense all week. I know you're concerned about your doctor's appointment, but how are you supposed to focus if that's all you're thinking about?'

'It's easy to say when you're not literally scared for your life. I've got a piece of lead stuck in my brain, you know what that does to someone? I'm sorry if I'm a little bit irrational or grumpy, but I'm sure you'll get over that now your life's all peachy. At least you know what your future holds.' 'Yeah, and how long did I have to wait for it? I'm here every step, but you can't take it out on us. Besides, how often do you insult people? It's just what we do.' Rio just rolled her eyes and walked off. 'She'll calm down in a bit.'

After everyone had eventually boarded the plane, it took off. Nearly fifteen hours later, a very tired crew and jet-lagged crew arrived in India. As they disembarked, it was Hannah who provided some good news. 'It's 2 in the afternoon here, and our hotel is about five minutes' walk away. So I suggest we spend the rest of the day recovering from the flight. There's plenty of time over the next three days to sightsee.'

The next morning, Rio, Blair, and Jade were enjoying the sights of a local market. 'You were saying you know the area Jade?' 'Yeah, lived in Delhi for 9 months when I was a teenager.' 'How many places have you lived?' 'Well, I was born in Idaho, we moved to Qaem Shahr in Iran when I was just short of my 6th birthday, then moved to a little village called Lehmal a few miles south for, like, a month around my 10th birthday. Then we moved to an area of Amman called Tariq.'

Blair seemed a little confused at this point. 'I'm gonna sound real thick here, but where's Amman?' This innocence made Rio and Jade giggle. 'You're so sweet when you don't know stuff. It's fine, it's the capital of Jordan. Honestly the nicest place I've ever lived.' 'So you were saying?' 'Yeah, I lived in Tariq until I ran away from home.' 'You ran away?' 'Three days after my fifteenth birthday. I ended up hiding in Jerusalem for about 9 months which was super weird considering I couldn't tell anyone I'd lived in Iran.'

'Bet that was fun.' 'It was… something, I'll give you that.' 'Can you speak Hebrew?' 'I can't speak it, but I can understand it written down.' 'Can you write in it?' 'On a good day, yeah.' Rio then nudged Blair in the arm. 'I'm enjoying the story. Quiet.' Jade burst out laughing at this. 'You two are a right pair. Anyway, so after that I sort of just became a transient through countries. I spent a few weeks in Lebanon, narrowly avoided being blown up by a car bomb in Syria, lived in Istanbul for about a year, ran out of money, and ended up paying my last 400 Turkish Lira to get on a truck, and ended up in some dump out the back ass of Siberia called Ulan-Ude.'

'I was a 19 year-old with the mental capacity of a 14 year old effectively, lost in Siberia. Ended up getting a job as a stripper and pole dancer until I had a bit of money, then I spent it all to move to Moscow, where I became an exotic dancer for some old dude. I think his family got rich off of oil or something. Lived there for over three years, but then they found out that I'm homosexual. So I used a fake passport and got a flight to DC.'

'From there I met a sweet girl called Kelly, and we hooked up for a while. She was on holiday in DC and took me back with her to Spokane in Washington state. I'm still in touch with her actually.' 'Why'd you split up then?' 'There just wasn't a spark. We liked each other's company but that was it. So I decided to move back to Idaho when I found out Rio was alive, and moved to Boise. Worked in a strip club for about 4 months, and then the literal day after I got a pay rise, you two got me fired.'

'Wait, how did we get you fired?' 'Well I say you two, what I really mean is it was me freaking out at seeing Rio for the first time in nearly 20 years that got me fired. I think it was the next morning that I sat in bed and realised that I'd met the woman for me. There was just something in your eyes.' 'Yeah, it was probably embarrassment. Rio hadn't told me we were going to a strip club.' Rio seemed to remember differently though.

'Hang on, I did tell you. Because you tried to talk me out of it, but agreed when I pointed out that you'd be too drunk to be embarrassed.' As this arguing continued, Astrid wandered up behind them, having kept her distance for some time. About five minutes later, Rio looked around slowly. 'Are you following us?' This lead Blair to an admission.

'Sorry, I forgot to mention - I invited Astrid to hang around with us for a while.' 'Why?' 'i kind of felt bad that she had nobody. Kris has man-flu, and Lydia and Freja are still in bed.' Jade then made a correction. 'He's not got man-flu, he's actually got the flu.' 'How would you know?' 'I was right there! I was there with him yesterday morning. I think it was yesterday anyway - time zones are no good.'

A young woman in her early 20s then walked up to the group, wearing little more than a shawl and jogging trousers. She immediately held out a picture of Phil and Hannah to them. 'Have you seen these two badamaash?' Blair stood up to them. 'Who's asking?' Jade meanwhile, was annoyed. 'You want to watch your mouth. Before it gets shut.' The mystery woman looked around, and signalled for several masked heavies to come over.

'We've been paid a real good amount of money to make sure those two never make it out of Delhi. So you're going to tell us where they are, otherwise… let's just say bad things happen to all of you.' Blair responded by getting right into the woman's face. 'Make me.' 'If that's the way you want it… get 'em boys.'

As the hooligans approached, Rio noticed a traditional wooden quarter-staff in a nearby market. Jade saw her eyeing it up, and grabbed the pole, along with a pair of katars. As Astrid drew her ax, the three girls stood back to back, and courageously fought off the attackers, with Rio wielding the staff with much skill, tripping some and hitting others in the jaw. Meanwhile Jade was battling the attackers with weapons, using her sword-like gloves to go blow for blow with them.

Suddenly Rio found herself with a gun pointed at her head, only for it to immediately be chopped clean in two by Astrid's axe. But she was more concerned by Rio's skill. 'Where did you learn to use that?' 'I'll explain later.' The viking nodded, and buried her axe blade deep into the back of one of the attackers, causing the others to flee. They then turned their attention to the ringleader.

'So, you were saying about the money?' The woman took one look at her situation, and then went to flee, only to be immediately floored. Blair stood above her with a four-armed car wheel wrench, eyes of fire. Rio went to hug her, but Astrid wisely held her back. 'She's not in control. You can see it in her eyes.' Blair then picked up the conspirator, and applied a rear naked choke, savagely making her foe pass out, as she shouted. 'When they ask, tell them that the Renegades made an example out of you!'

Eventually Astrid decided to intervene herself. As she wrested Blair's arm off of the foe, the Michigan woman swung a vicious instinctive punch, which the blonde batted away with the most beautiful spin kick you ever did see. Blair then took a deep breath. 'Did I really just go to hit you? I am so, so sorry' 'It's fine, you weren't in control. When you're in the zone like that, sometimes your body takes over. It looks more brutal than it is. I'm more concerned about your hand. I kick hard.'

Jade then looked at Rio. 'When did you learn to use a staff like that?' 'My parents owned all sorts of antiques, including a 15th century steel staff. I once broke Reginald's leg with it in an argument when we were 9.' 'You could lift a staff like that at 9?' 'Yeah, well enough anyway. I actually broke his leg when I dropped it on him. Difference is now I wouldn't go near him with a 15th century steel staff.'

Further down the road, Rio and Blair went off to get lunch, leaving Jade and Astrid to have a getting to know you session. 'Hey Astrid.' 'Ya?' 'Just want to know how you got your hair like that - it's so beautiful and shiny.' She smiled. 'Ya know, Norwegian sunshine, fresh Fjord water, an old wooden comb, and now, a few squeezes of gel made up in Bergen.'

'Seriously though, it's like a mirror reflecting the sun.' Astrid then lay down on the nearby grass. 'There was always an old story where I grew up that my mother used to tell me. That there would one day be a girl born with the fairest of skin, the most beautiful and radiant blonde hair, and the most delicate personality. That one day this girl would grow up and become a princess and rule over the lands of the fjords with a sensitive hand. I've actually got a book of these stories back home in Norway.' Jade then looked over. 'You know, I'd imagine that princess from the story to look just like you.' 'Yeah, well I always thought that. Then I grew up and figured that she made the story up just for me.'

Eventually, conversation turned to Blair. 'So you've known Blair a while haven't you?' 'Years and years. I met her, I didn't speak a word of English. Possibly about 2008? We were competing in a junior tournament for under 13s. I would have been 11 at the time, never been out of Norway before. Only big city I'd seen is Oslo. She beat me in the final. Seems like it's been fate ever since.'

Blair then came up to them having been listening. 'It's funny - we've been team-mates, we've been bitter enemies, I've punched you more than a few times.' 'I once took out three of your teeth.' 'You still owe me $800 for dental work.' 'But we've always been there.' 'And every time we duel, it's like the first time all over again.' 'And we're totally going to duel again once I'm the champion.' 'Agreed.'

The next day

As the club arrived at the stadium, there was a decent amount of tension in the air. Half an hour before the show began, with the arena still only about ⅓ full, Phil and Hannah walked out into the zone to no music, with Hannah wearing a dark red dress and Phil wearing a stone grey waistcoat and black trousers. He then took a microphone.

'I know this is a bit impromptu, we didn't actually tell anybody that we were doing this, but I am aware that there are a lot of people who are unaware of what is going on regarding Maddy. During the mid-season break, Maddy collapsed after suffering a serious medical event while on a short holiday. During her recovery, we learned that she needed a kidney transplant. As a result, Maddy is not here, she is recovering at home.'

'However, Maddy did want me to send a message. In fact, she's written out a statement for us.' Hannah then took the statement and read it out. 'The statement reads: "I am currently not medically cleared to duel, and as such cannot compete. Under the WDC's code of conduct, I legally have 60 days to defend my title starting in Delhi, and I fully intend on using as much of that time as I need.'

'In the meantime, I want to thank the club for understanding, and the fans who have been asking how I am, whether they knew my condition or not. As for those who didn't ask, and who don't care, just know that I'm done trying to please you now. Also, for those fans asking, yes, I am taking an extended break from social media." With that statement read out, the couple left the zone, as the early bird fans started a chant for Maddy.

Outside, they met up with the rest of the gang. And Blair was instinctively suspicious. 'Did Maddy ACTUALLY write that statement?' 'Every word.' Hannah then passed the slip of paper over. 'Yep, it's definitely Maddy's writing - I can't understand a word of it.' Just then, they were distracted by Claude and the rest of the Regiment physically accosting two fans outside. The older-looking, female fan had shoulder-length caramel-blonde hair, while the younger-looking, male fan had longer, spiky-blonde hair down to the middle of his back.

Blair just watched on, visions of the abuse she'd been through in the past. But Jade was right behind her. 'Are you going over there?' 'No.' She then looked at her girlfriend and smiled. 'There's much better ways of doing things. It's about time I went… incognito.' She then walked off, leaving everyone else rather confused. But there wasn't much time to be confused, as the event began.

Immediately the event kicked off with The Regiment's music, as Kari and Radley walked out, proudly displaying their tag titles. 'The following is the first of our WDC Championship Tournament Qualifying Matches: Introducing first, accompanied by Radley, from Dodge City, Kansas, he is one half of the WDC Tag-Team Champions - Kari Tsukumo.' Kari strode down as the commentators ran down the earlier announcement involving Maddy, and reaching the zone, held her left arm in front of her, in a mockery of the Renegades salute, as her deck was given the third degree.

('Kari is part of the new breed of pros who is ready for any fight, and alongside Radley is one half of our doubles champions right now. Her Utopia-themed deck is named "Paradise Lost", as she aims to control the pace the duel is held at. She may lack heavy hitters sometimes, but makes up for that with tactical nous and skill. She'll need every last drop of that skill in this match-up against a motivated World Champion.")

The Renegades' music then hit, and Phil appeared again with Hannah, having not had time to change clothes. 'Introducing her opponent, representing the Renegades, from Taylor Park, Manchester, England, he is the Northern Nightmare - Phil Robinson.' On his way to the zone, the commentators discussed his style.

"Phil is one of the great thinkers of the duelling world. The reigning World Champion boasts that he has a plan for every occasion.' 'The core of his Cyberspace Revolution deck may be as old as time itself, but he never stops upgrading it, removing the soft underbelly. He knows how to win the WDC Championship - he's held it five times. Only problem? He's never held it beyond two months."

While this was going on, the former champion grabbed a microphone and immediately made clear his plans. 'I hope you know that I don't approve of showing off stolen property. You did NOTHING to earn those tag titles, you had to win a 2-1 duel after I'd been knocked out cold backstage.'

Kari then responded. 'In what way is what we did different to what you did? Oh wait - it's because we actually earned it. We didn't turn up late and cash in some poxy guaranteed shot. We defeated her fair and square. And guess what - we've been told that we don't have to defend against you again. And it would give me even greater pleasure to stop you getting the WDC Championship.' 'Well why don't we have a little contest then - see if you can stop me. Because I'm willing to bet you can't.'

WDC Championship Tournament Round 1: Kari Tsukumo LP:4000 vs. Phil Robinson LP:4000

Turn 1: Phil: 'I'll start. I draw. I'll start by discarding Cyber Dragon to summon Cyber Dragon Nachster (Atk:200).' 'Cute.' 'You're going to be more concerned about something else afterwards. Because Nachster's ability allows me to revive a monster from my grave with 2100 Attack or Defence. Care to guess how many points Cyber Dragon has? (Atk:2100).' 'Funny.' 'Who said anything about me laughing? Next I activate Machine Duplication.'

'Cyber Dragon has too many points to use that. It needs 500 or less.' 'Correct you are. However, Nachster's name on the field is treated as Cyber Dragon. And Machine Dupe doesn't check the Attack of what it summons (Atk:2100)x2. Now I'll overlay two Level 5 Cyber Dragons. Open the door and touch the future, as I summon out the latest evolution of Cybernetic technology. Blast me into tomorrow, Cyber Dragon Nova! (Atk:2100).'

'But I'm not done yet. Cyber Dragon Nova hasn't reached its perfected form yet. I rebuild the overlay network with Rank 5 Nova. Life and death is a permanent cycle. It's time to break the circuit! Rank-up Xyz Evolution! Upgrade, Cyber Dragon Infinity (Atk:2100-2700). Then I'll contact fuse my remaining Cyber Dragon and Nachster to bring out the bruising behemoth that's going to break the back of this duel. Assemble, Chimeratech Fortress Dragon (Atk:2000). I end my turn with a face-down. Good luck.'

Kari: 'I draw. I'll start with Pot of Desires.' 'Seems like I'm not the only one with some tricks.' 'This banishes the top 10 cards of my deck but then draws me two cards. One of which is Ledger of Ledgerdemain.' 'Not often I'm stumped, but I've never heard of that.' 'It banishes the top 3 cards of my deck face-down, but I get them back in three turns.' This move got him thinking. 'If it's what I think you're doing, it isn't going to work.'

'You want to bet? I summon Necroface (Atk:1200). And because I did that, all the cards I banished go back into the deck. And for each one, Necroface gains 100 Attack.' 'Do your maths - it can't beat Infinity.' 'Oh I know that (Atk:1200-2500). Which is why I'm going after your Fortress Dragon.' Phil briefly looked at his set card, but other than that there was basically no reaction to his Fusion monster biting the dust (Phil LP:4000-3500). 'I'll set two and I'll pass.'

Phil: 'Little more than a setback. I draw. That's a very interesting draw. For now I'll summon Cyber Dragon Core (Atk:400). And when this micro machine boots up from my Normal summon, I benefit by searching any Spell or Trap with "Cyber" in its name. Cybernetic Overflow should do the trick. Now that my Core has done its job, I'll use Infinity's effect to absorb it as a material. Don't forget - every material is 200 more Attack (Atk:2700-2900).'

Kari looked rather disappointed at this developement. 'Fine, do your worst.' 'Infinity, attack Necroface.' 'I'll activate Negate Attack.' Sensing her plan, Phil decided to play it safe. 'Ok, that's fine.' 'What - seriously?' 'You're presumably banking on me destroying Necroface for some reason. And if I had to guess, I'd say it has something to do with your other set card. Unless you're… no, that's too audacious, even for you. I'll end my turn with another set.'

Kari: 'I draw. If you won't play ball then I suppose I'll have to change my tactics. I activate Dark Ruler No More. Not only does this negate your Infinity's effects for the rest of the turn, you can't respond to this with your monster's effect.' 'I might not be able to stop that with Infinity, but I can by activating Solemn Judgement. It costs half of my Life points but negates your Spell. Enjoy your zero damage this turn by the way.'

'I suppose I'll have to manage the old fashioned way then. I summon Gogogo Aristera and Dexia (Atk:0). And when I summon a Level 4 monster, I can also summon Kagetokage (Atk:1100). Now I'll overlay my three monsters to build the overlay network and Xyz summon Gagagigo the Risen (Atk:2950).' 'So you're just going to try and overpower Infinity?' 'Seems like it. Turns out that there's more than one way to beat a monster. Gagagigo, attack.'

'On attack declaration, I activate Cybernetic Overflow. By banishing Cyber Dragons from my field, hand, or graveyard, I can destroy that many cards on the field. I'll banish Cyber Dragon Nachster to take care of Gagagigo.' The lowly statted Cyber Dragon came flying out of the graveyard bristling with static, and detonated on contact with the Xyz monster, electrifying the reptile and frying it. 'I've still got a couple of tricks up my sleeve. In Main Phase 2 I'll activate Raigeki to deal with Infinity.'

'You won't be surprised to know that I'm negating with Infinity (Atk:2900-2700).' But that was just the opening that the confident Kansas natie was waiting for. 'I activate my face-down Necro Xyz. This allows me to Xyz summon with monsters from my graveyard. I'll overlay Gogogo Arista and Dexia and Necroface to Xyz summon Number 39: Utopia (Atk:2500). Then I'll activate Rank-up Magic Numeron Force. This ranks up Utopia into a Chaos Xyz monster. Chaos Xyz Evolution! I Xyz summon Number C39: Utopia Ray V (Atk:2600).'

'Utopia Ray V, activate your ability. By detaching one material, it can destroy Cyber Dragon Infinity and you're taking all 2700 points to the face! How about we call this one "The day the old guard died"?' 'Or we could call it "The young guard forgot that I'm taking no damage this turn due to Dark Ruler No More. I've met goldfish with better memories.' Rattled, Kari searched for a positive. 'Well you're still going to lose Infinity.' This was one thing Kari had gotten right, shown by the cybernetic dragon being cleaved apart by a pair of flaming swords. 'I end my turn.'

Phil: 'My turn. Because I control no monsters, I can summon Arcjet Lightcraft with no tribute (Atk:0). Because I did that, Lightcraft can drop its cargo - a Level 8 or lower Machine from my graveyard, which becomes Level 9. Meet Cyber Dragon (Atk:2100). Now I'll overlay my two Level 9 monsters to build the overlay network. Open, Number 9 - Dyson Sphere (Atk:2800).' 'The secret ace.'

'Oh you don't know the half of it. Because now I can activate Rank-up Magic Barian's Force. This ranks up Dyson Sphere into a Chaos monster. Chaos Xyz Evolution! Let the canopy star evolve and envelop the entire world! Burn through the sky, Number C9 - Chaos Dyson Sphere (Atk:3600). And when Barian's Force is used, it steals a material from Utopia Ray V.' The single material being pilfered would prove to provide all the difference.

'I activate the first effect of C9. Once per turn, you lose 300 damage for each of its materials. So that's 1200 damage.' Kari took the damage on the chin, not knowing what was to come (Kari LP:4000-2800). 'Now for Chaos Dyson Sphere's OTHER ability. Because it has Dyson Sphere as a material, I can detach as many Xyz materials as I like from it to deal you 800 damage for each one. I think I'll detach all four of them for 3200.' Kari was only able to watch the onslaught of fire and meteors from the gargantuan machine, as the upset was narrowly avoided (Kari LP:2800-0).

Following the conclusion of the contest, Phil raised his hand, but made a point of staring at Kari's tag belt before he left. Meanwhile, she was busy getting chewed out by Claude, who had made an early entrance for his qualifier. A terse and tense argument was eventually ended by Radley getting between the two, and talking some sense to them both. Kari then made a peace offering of a microphone to Claude.

'Finally somebody gives me an opportunity. You know how many shots I've had at this championship since losing it? None. Because it's all been a conspiracy to hold me down and make me look bad. But not anymore. Because this time, it's everyone else being made to look bad by me. Starting with my opponent. Hit her music!' Nothing initlally happened, so Claude said it louder. 'Whoever's in charge, hit her damn music!'

Maddy's theme then serenaded the arena, but nothing happened, as expected. So Claude just laughed away. 'Turns out that Maddy's a little bit too chicken. Strange for someone who believes they're a wolf, but I can't blame her not wanting to be humiliated. I suppose I'll just have to wait for my next duel then.' Claude made the anti-Renegade salute which Kari had earlier, and then departed the zone to a chorus of boos.

Backstage, Claude was continuing to celebrate his "win" when he ran into Phil and Hannah. Unexpectedly though, it was the pregnant woman who squared up to the towering Dane. 'Haven't you got better things to be doing? Like choosing a bedtime story for little one? My favourite is "the little mouse who shouldn't square up to generals". Reminds me of a certain someone.'

'Oh come off it Claude, you know that trying to pick on pregnant women is… well I was going to say it's low even by your standards, but your standards are quite pathetic to begin with. By the way, I'm sorry we didn't let you know Maddy was in hospital, we didn't want her being beaten up, because you get a kick from that kind of thing. Actually do you do kicks? Or is it just attempted strangulation?'

'You really didn't miss a story did you? I suppose it doesn't matter - I'm going to finish the job on your little diciple in the next round. Then I'll take you out and win the title back. And then, you will have to admit that I truly am the greatest of all time. I'm not just the best duelist of thi era, I'm #1 in any era. So you can stick that up your salute.' Phil then laughed. 'What's so funny?'

'I'm going to make a little bet with you Claude. It's your choice to accept it or not. Because I know you're not going to beat Rio. So how about this - I'm about to go and demand a tag title rematch. However, if you survive 15 minutes against Rio without having your Life points turned into scrambled egg, then the title shot is off.' 'You're on.'

As Claude walked off, Hannah seemed concerned at the bet. 'Hang on Phil, you don't even know Rio's on that strat.' 'Well I know what deck she's playing. Her Control deck isn't finished yet, and she only uses her Graydle deck in the arena. Plus she's been complaining of a terrible head cold all week, so she isn't going to be hanging about. Who's my next opponent anyway? I haven't had time to look at the bracket.'

Hannah laughed. 'It's fine. You're up against… yeah, you're not going to like this - Astrid.' Phil immediately looked to the sky and laughed to himself. 'It's going to be like that is it then? Fine, I'll just have to go through another one of them. No matter.' Just as he was leaving, Hannah suddenly remembered something she wanted to discuss with him.

'Phil, I need to talk to you. Rio asked me a bit earlier, she was wondering if I'd be able to drive her down to her doctor's appointment rather than you.' Somewhat surprisingly, he smiled at that. 'Only if you don't mind me taking Maddy for a coffee and a chat.' 'Feel free.' 'If Rio's more comfortable with you, I totally get it.' She then kissed him. 'What did I do to deserve such a wonderful husband?' 'Let me know when you find him.'

In the third qualifying duel, Kalin and Johnny went to war, with Kalin taking a near-half-hour duel by 2900 Life points through Infernity Doom Dragon. After his highly impressive victory, Kalin showed great sportsmanship in giving the defeated Glaswegian a lift to his feet. There the two shook hands and exchanged a few pleasantries, before Johnny walked off. Kalin then stopped off to conduct an interview.

'Kalin Kessler everyone! Now you know as well as anyone how to win the WDC Championship Kalin. You're looking for your 6th title, as is Phil. Has it occurred to you that you could face each other in the final round?' He just laughed. 'Honestly no, but it's something rather special.' 'When the draw for this came out, I think a lot of people were rather surprised to see your name here as oppose to someone like Blair Flannigan. Now we know that you and Blair are quite close, nobody appears to have heard anything from her in a while as regards a return.'

'Listen, me and Blair get on but I'm not exactly her keeper. I know she's had some personal things to deal with, and I speak to her every so often. That's it, we've not even spoken since Texas. As for Blair being in this tournament, that's something you'd have to ask Michael or the board. All I can tell you is that I'm going to take full advantage of the opportunity. Because I think a few people may have forgotten that I'm still world class when things come together.'

'Finally before we let you go, there appears to be a feud brewing involving the Renegades against the WDC.' Kalin didn't even let the interviewer finish though. 'I'm not interested in any war. I like the Renegades, I like the fact that they are trying to shake a few things up around here, because let's just say things are getting stale. But I'm not getting involved in no war. I'm only interested in winning this tournament. Mark my words - I WILL become the second ever 6-time WDC Champion.'

With this ominous warning, he left. And backstage, he ran into an old friend. 'Hi Yusei, it's been a while.' 'You think? It's good to see you.' 'And you. What brings you all the way over here?' 'Had a couple of people to speak to. And I kind of wanted to see you win the title again. I missed the last one.' 'Well it's nice to see you. Where've you been hiding anyway?' 'Oh you know, business stuff.'

'How's the whole mechanic thing?' 'Going great. Also went down to the Renegades Arena a while ago, helped out with one of the Advanced classes down there.' 'Yeah, I heard about those. Blair contacted me about possibly doing one of the courses, but I couldn't justify leaving home for 3 months for it. See anyone with anything there?' 'Yeah, some awesome talent. How about we grab a spot of lunch and we can talk about it?' 'Sounds good to me.'

Kalin then turned around and saw Blair leant against the wall, eating a sandwich. 'And they call this food? Say what you want about the English, at least they know how to put a BLT together.' She then looked round. 'Can a girl not eat a rubbish sandwich in peace?' 'I thought you weren't here.' She then looked down at herself. 'I was the last time I checked.' 'How did you even get here?' 'Is that one of those trick questions where I'm actually supposed to tell you how I was conceived?'

The guys both looked very weirded out by the question. 'No, I was asking if you came with the rest of the Renegades?' 'Yeah, I was the second one off the plane after Jade.' 'Wait… who's Jade?' 'My girlfriend, but that's a different story.' 'Well nobody seems to know where you are. I just had to answer questions on where you are.'

'Don't see why, you're not my keeper. And besides, I don't know how people haven't seen me. Anyway, I've got to go - I'm doing something very important which involves not hanging around chatting for too long. Just one thing though.' 'Which is?' She then produced her autograph book. 'Any chance of an autograph Yusei?' Hearing this made them both smile. 'How about you leave it with me a few days and I can get Crow and Jack to sign it as well? I'll get Kalin to return it to you in Dublin.' 'Thanks so much.' 'It's fine.'

In the dueling zone

The final qualifier began with the lights going dim, as Eye of the Tiger blared to the arena. A blue mist then appeared, and when the lights came back up, Justin Pipe was stood there in a leather jacket, back to the zone holding his arms out wide. 'The following is the final qualifying duel in the WDC Championship Tournament. Introducing first, from the City of Angles, he is the Player - Justin Pipe.' Not that Justin even cared about the introduction, as he was too busy sexually harassing the some female fans in the front row.

He then grabbed a microphone, but before he could speak, Jaden walked out, wearing his club jacket. 'Introducing his opponent, from Renegades HQ, South Shields, England, the Fallen Hero - Jaden Yuki.' As he stormed down to the zone, the commentators gave the run-down. "Jaden is a great example of how the Renegades change people. Once a noble character, he sold his soul to the devil, and his Supreme Dark Law deck reflects that, looking to brutalise an opponent with vicious attacks, and even rip apart their hand."

In the zone, Justin was furious. 'Hey, who gave you permission to interrupt me? Now I know you think you're some big shot, but you were washed up years ago, that's why you went and became a missionary. Now why don't you go and let the real man do the work?' Jaden responded by activating his duel disk. 'I didn't come for small talk. If I wanted that I would have stayed at home.' 'Well how about I send you home? Courtesy of the Player!'

WDC Championship Tournament Qualifier 4: Justin Pipe LP:4000 vs. Jaden Yuki LP:4000

Turn 1: Justin: 'How about I show you how it's done today? I'll begin with Necrovalley.' The familiar crypt appeared around the field, as Justin got his turn going. 'Then I activate Necrovalley Throne, which allows me to summon Gravekeeper's Curse (Atk:800-1300). And when Curse arrives, 500 of your Life points depart. Doomsday Curse.' Jaden was immediately surrounded by a weird green light, which started to randomly contort his body, causing severe pain (Jaden LP:4000-3500). 'Then I'll tribute Curse off for the Gravekeeper's Chief (Atk:1900-2400).'

Jaden was far from impressed however. 'Wake me up when 2006 ends.' 'Keep talking, because I'm having the last laugh. When Chief is summoned, he can bring back Gravekeeper's Curse (Def:1300). And you know what that means.' Curse's effect triggered again, and twisted away another 500 points (Jaden LP:3500-3000). 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Jaden: 'Time to show you how it's really done. I draw. I'll start with the effect of Evil Hero Adusted Gold in my hand. I'll discard it to search a copy of Supreme King's Castle. Then I'll set two Trap cards, and tribute them both immediately for Vision Hero Witch Raider (Atk:2700).' This concerned Justin. 'I've never seen that card in my life before.' 'I only bring it out on special occasions. Usually when I'm slaughtering someone. Like you. When Witch Raider is summoned, it wipes out all your Spells and Traps.'

The new Hero cackled, and pulled out a giant musket from behind, blasting the back-row to smoking smithereens. 'I don't intend on leaving anything left, even for the crows to pick up. I activate Super Polymerisation.' At this time, Justin was panicking. 'We can talk about this, right? I can give you advice on how to be a babemagnet, and you can give me advice on how to be a psychopath.'

'I didn't come to talk. This fuses together my Witch Raider with Gravekeeper's Chief to Fusion summon Evil Hero Malicious Bane (Atk:3000).' 'Well at least I'm not taking damage.' 'You wish. I'll use Malicious Bane's effect to destroy your Gravekeeper's Curse. Then Bane gains 200 Attack points.' Bane lunged at Curse, and simply shredded through it with sharp scales, before immediately turning and attacking Justin himself (Bane Atk:3000-3200, Justin LP:4000-800). With Justin clearly in pain, Jaden broke into a smile. 'I end my turn.'

Justin: 'I'm done trying to be nice now. I'll activate Magicalized Fusion, to fuse together Gravekeeper's Chief and Gravekeeper's Curse in my graveyard. Marvel at the Gravekeeper's Supernaturalist (Atk:2000-2500). He gains 100 Attack points for every Level that his materials had. That's 8 Levels, so 800 points (Atk:2500-3300). Now attack Malicious Bane.' The Supernaturalist cast a spell, and created two lions which tore away at Bane to no avail (Jaden LP:3000-2900). 'Nice trick. Too bad Malicious Bane can't be destroyed by battle.' 'I'm done this turn. During the End phase, Supernaturalist searches for Gravekeeper's Guard.'

Jaden: 'My turn. I'll activate Form Change. You'll be glad for this, because Malicious Bane is returning to the Extra deck.' Justin briefly smiled at this. 'At last.' 'In return though, I can summon a Masked Hero of the same Level. Meet Masked Hero Anki (Atk:2800).' 'Yeah, whatever that is, I can handle it.' He then turned to start flirting with a girl behind him, but failed to listen to Jaden's next words. 'Masked Hero Anki, attack directly.' Without noticing Anki's effect, Justin turned around and immediately got his points wiped out (Justin LP:800-0).

With the duel finishing, Jaden made the salute, victorious. Meanwhile Justin just watched on, humiliated, until a man in a garish yellow and black striped jacket with a moustache curled at each end walked out. They had a quick conversation, and then left together, as Jaden had already walked off, not interested in a post-duel interview.

Following this was the intermission following the end of the first round. With Rio up first in the next round, she was busy preparing her deck in the cafeteria. And she had a couple of surprises up her sleeve, which Jade noticed. 'Are you sure about putting those in?' Her fellow Idahoan looked at her with a stern face. 'I can't be scared. I'm a different person now. I can handle it. I need to embrace who I am.'

Meanwhile, was then a surprise visit to the club's private box by Geoff Maltby, peaking Phil's interest. 'If it isn't The Oracle. How may we help you today?' 'I just got some news from the Board of Directors, and I thought you'd like to hear it. Is Rio around?' 'No, but I can let her know the news.' 'As a result of hearing your conversation with Claude earlier, the Board have decided that you were… shall we say screwed over in your title duel. Therefore, if Rio is able to defeat Claude later, you will get a title shot tomorrow.'

Phil still wasn't delighted though. 'You do realise that means we could both be dueling three times tomorrow?' 'Don't blame me, I'm only the messenger.' 'You know what, tell them that I accept. I can probably beat both of them on my own to be honest.' 'Don't underestimate them - they might hang around with an egotistical sociopath, but they're better than you give credit for.' 'Kari might be, but Radley absolutely isn't. If Kari isn't in my league, Radley isn't even in the same sport.'

'Speaking of people we know you can beat, Finn Hofferson.' 'He's an idiot and a terrible role model. Move on.' 'He's been demanding a rematch.' 'I'm not interested. I beat him last time, I could happily go the rest of my life without seeing his face. I might actually need to talk to Frances about getting a restraining order for upsetting our unborn baby's feelings.' 'Very funny. Well all I can say is expect a call from the Board about Finn.' 'Well all I can say is warn them that I won't pull any punches.'

Conversation then turned to Maddy. 'So how long is Maddy out for?' 'We have no idea.' 'Have you discussed the situation with the Board?' 'I notified them of my intention to cash in the non compete, and they accepted out of hand. Quite honestly, we're just concerned with getting her well right now.' 'So she had a kidney issue?' 'Yeah, she had severe appendicitis, and that led to her going into total renal failure. Her kidneys looked like the Somme. Smashed up her ribs a fair bit as well.'

'Sounds real nasty.' 'She's on the road to recovery now, but it's really got her down. Someone who's used to running everywhere isn't allowed to go past jogging speed now. She'll be better off by biding her time, but you know what she's like - everything has to be as quick as possible. All I know is that she's going to be real pissy when she comes back.' 'Why?' 'Why? How about her getting four threatening letters in the past two weeks about coming to India for a "meeting", even though the board know she is not medically cleared to travel. And the fact that none of us have been paid our fees since the new year?'

The Oracle appeared to be stunned by this. 'The board would never ask her to come all the way out here for a chat. They'd do it online where possible.' 'How about our money?' 'I'll phone them now.' Maltby then got on the phone. 'Yeah, this is Geoff Maltby, employee code 242. Could you put me on to the finance team? Thanks.' A tense wait then ensued. 'It's Geoff Maltby. Listen, I've just been talking to Phil Robinson-Cummings, and he's apparently not been paid since the start of the year. Could you have a little investigation?'

Another five minute wait then followed, with some rustling on the other side and a lot of typing, before the situation was resolved. 'That's great, thanks.' He came off the phone and explained. 'It's all sorted now. There was a data hack a few weeks ago, we thought that nothing had been affected but it looks like your accounts were somehow blocked on the system. You should all be getting the full amount you're owed within the next two weeks, depending on how quickly the payments are processed.'

In the dueling zone

The Last 8 of the tournament began with Claude walking back out, this time with a legion of followers wearing full-face masks, painted in camouflage colours. 'The following is your first Round 1 match-up. Introducing first, from Copenhagen, Denmark, Lt. Claude W. Duane.' Claude wasn't listening though, instead being more interested in berating the tallest legion member. 'I told you all to wear red dumbass. This lot can follow instructions, what's wrong with you?' The legion member nodded and stood back in line.

Rio's music then started, and she entered, looking very pensive, and wearing a purple hoodie borrowed from Freja with her club jacket on top. 'Introducing his opponent, from Twin Falls, Idaho, Cold Blooded Rio Kastle.' As she walked down, Claude started taunting her. 'Come and get me sick girl! What are you going to do - headbutt me? Sorry, I must have LEAD you on.' Claude then looked around, and saw one of his legion sliding across the floor, knocked out. 'Where did they get this lot from?' Rio meanwhile quietly activated her duel disk, with the purple ice crystals snapping into position. Claude followed soon after.

Egotistical Eight Tournament Round 1: Lt. Claude W. Duane LP:8000 vs. Rio Kastle LP:8000

Turn 1: Rio: 'I'm first, so get ready! I'll summon Aurora Wing (Atk:1200). Then I'll set four and pass.'

Claude: 'I draw. I'll start by summoning an Animadorned Archosaur (Atk:0).' 'Gotta admit, he's pretty cute.' 'You won't be thinking that when he destroys a Dinosaur in my hand, and then searches an Evolution Pill card. I'll destroy Babycerasaurus to grab a Double Evolution Pill. And when the baby is destroyed, she allows me to summon Souleating Oviraptor (Atk:1800). Oviraptor's summon effect grabs a Giant Rex from my deck.'

'Then I'll activate Double Evolution Pill, to banish Giant Rex and Necroface from my hand, to Special summon Super Conductor Tyranno (Atk:3300). And Giant Rex? When he's banished, he summons himself (Atk:2000). Finally I'll use Oviraptor to destroy Archosaur for Babycerasaurus (Def.:500). Super Conductor, attack Aurora Wing.'

'I activate Blazing Mirror Force. It destroys all your Attack mode monsters, then we both take half of their Attack as damage. Then I chain Trap of Board Eraser, to negate the damage to me, and force you to discard one from your hand. And I'll chain to that Chain Strike, which deals 400 damage per chain link that this is. Finally I'll add Accumulated Fortune onto the chain, to draw two.' As the chain resolved, Claude's monster line-up got obliterated by Rio's moves, before he got lashed by a burning chain (Claude LP:8000-3250). 'I'll end my turn.' As he looked around again, he noticed that his legion was rapidly shrinking. 'Where are this lot all going? Remind me to hire some decent ones next time.'

Rio: 'I draw.' Noticing a play, Rio decided to play it relatively safe. 'I'll switch Aurora Wing to Defence (Def.:1200), and pass.'

Claude: 'I draw.' He then burst into laughter. 'I'm not going to take out your Life points here, I'm just going to take out your life! I activate Megamorph, to double the Attack of Super Conductor (Atk:3300-6600). Then I'll also equip Big Bang Shot to my Conductor, giving 400 Attack and piercing damage (Atk:6600-7000). Now destroy her!' The Tyranno came crunching in, smashing Aurora Wing with its tail, and slamming Rio in the face, knocking her to the ground like a feather (Rio LP:8000-2200).

As Claude laughed, Rio struggled to her knees. 'Aurora Wing effect.' Her icy bird soared back from the graveyard, sprinkling snow as she flew (Atk:1200). 'Just give up already.' 'Never.' With a force of will like little else, she found her way back to her feet. 'Give me your best shot.' 'Happily. In Main Phase 2, I'll activate the effect of Super Conductor, to tribute Babycerasaurus and deal you 1000 damage.' The electrified dino roared, and electrocuted the baby, before zapping Rio, leaving her steaming but still standing (Rio LP:2200-1200). 'Now I'm done. For this turn anyway.'

Rio: 'It's the last turn you're getting! I draw. I summon 7 Coloured Fish (Atk:1800).' 'You're seriously using that? It's older than me.' 'I'm not using it to attack, don't worry. Instead I'm using my monsters to summon Sirenorca (Atk:2200). I need a Winged Beast and a Fish on my field to summon her this way. Her effect then triggers, and makes my other monsters Level 5 (Level:4-5)x2.'

'You think I'm scared?' Her reply was certain. 'No. But you should be. I'll overlay my three Level monsters to build the overlay network! Barian's power, born of chaos, be revived to serve a new cause! I Xyz summon Number C103 - Ragnafinity (Atk:2800).' Claude suddenly realised his situation. 'No, this isn't the way it's supposed to happen. Get her!' He then turned around, only to find that his legion had dwindled to two. 'I activate Ragnafinity's effect. By detaching one material, she can banish Super Conductor, and you'll lose points equal to the Attack it gained. Funerary Finale.' The scythe-wielding Rank 5 spun her weapon, creating a bizarre purple mist which appeared to choke the Dinosaur, and wiped Claude's points out (Claude LP:3250-0).

After Rio beat Claude, she didn't have long to celebrate as the two remaining members of his legion went on the attack. Or so it seemed, for as they rushed in, the taller one suddenly turned and clocked the other in the face. They then turned around as Claude had his back turned, unaware of the turn of events, and revealed a familiar-looking chrome and red kabuki mask. As Claude turned around, the mask came off to reveal Blair, and the Indian crowd erupted. Before the Dane could go anywhere, she delivered a devastating knee to the face, before grasping him in a bulldog choke.

Hassleberry and Radley ran in to save their commander, onl for Rio to trip Hassleberry, falling right into another bulldog choke. Claude could only watch on as his right-hand soldier got choked out by the newly vicious Michigan native. She then grabbed a microphone. 'Guess what Claude - this time, you messed with the wrong bitch! Because while I was gone, I looked in the mirror and realised something - I'm Blair f'n Flannigan! I'm the World Number 1, and I'm the last person you ever wanted to get in the way of.'

'I'll make clear what I want - I want you Claude. 1-1, tomorrow. I don't care what I have to do to get it, I don't care if I have to put my career on the line to do it, hell, if you want I'll even let you have sex with me if you win, because let's face it, you didn't need an invitation the first time! And just to sweeten the pot, how about if you refuse, I'll reveal your dirty little secret and ruin the rest of your life like you tried to do to me. What do you say Claude?'

'You want a duel that badly? You got it! You don't need to put your career on the line though, because let's be honest, after our duel you're never going to walk again, never mind duel.' 'If you want to get all big boy about it, how about we up the ante? How about we meet in a sealed structure - the Torture Chamber?' 'You got it!' The fans went nuts, and Blair picked up Hassleberry's limp body, before throwing it out of the zone like a rubbish bag. 'Viva the revolution!' Blair's alternative theme (Patriot) then blared out as she stood in solidarity with Rio.

Backstage, Rio was delighted to have Blair back. 'Thanks for the help out there.' 'Just promise me you'll stay as far away from that douche as possible. It's a good job Sak doesn't know that I stole that chloroform. They'll wake up soon, totally unaware of what happened.' 'I wondered what was going on.' 'Sorry, I couldn't tell you just in case anyone overheard me.' An interviewer then came up to them.

'DJ Tanner here, back from leave. Blair, everyone's been wondering what's been going on with you.' 'Depends what you mean by that.' 'Firstly, how did you even get here?' 'Is that a trick question? I got here by plane.' 'Well the cameras were out in force when the Renegades arrived, and you weren't there.' 'I totally was. I was the last one off the plane. Now this might just be me, but shouldn't you be talking to the winner of the duel?'

DJ then turned to Rio. 'Rio, a fantastic win against a difficult opponent. You didn't seem to be feeling too good out there though.' 'I'm fine, I've just been a little under the weather the past few days. Feeling better out there though.' 'In the Last 4, you'll face either Phil or Astrid, two people I'd imagine you know rather well. Who would you prefer to face of the two?' Rio just smiled, and said 'Whoever wins', before walking off.

As she returned, Phil put his arm around Rio. 'Sure you're ok? Seemed to get pretty beaten up out there.' 'I'll be fine. Glad I'm not dueling again today.' 'I'll bet. Listen,how about you go and get yourself a coffee to warm yourself up.' 'I'm fine, honestly. Just stop fussing.' 'It's my job.' He then turned to Blair. 'As for you madam, if you're planning on going G.I. Jane again, at least give me the heads up.'

'Sorry, I didn't want anyone overhearing.' 'You do realise texting exists?' 'Yeah, I know.' His stern look soon changed to a smile though. 'It was bloody funny though. It'll be good to see you back in action.' 'It'll feel good. It's been way too long. Just make sure to keep your eyes focused. Winning matters, but don't forget to enjoy it.' 'Oh totally. Just like I'm going to enjoy your duel later. Don't forget to focus on that.' 'I've not, don't worry.'

The club then watched Kalin vs. Kieran, with Kalin winning a hard-fought 36 minute duel by 2600 Life points, Infernity Doom Dragon providing the coup de grace. Following the duel, Akiza walked out, and helped Kieran to his feet. The man from London then got a microphone, and proceeded to deliver a state of the union-style address.

'Get lost you little punk' he started, intimidating the announcer into running away. 'Rhydian, you punk arse little bitch, you're a disgrace to all of us. You messed up, and now, you're gone. As are the Brave Bones. We are rebuilding, under the leadership of me and of Akiza Izinski. It's just us two, Lukas and Tee, Nash and Celina. And don't worry, you'll meet Celina soon enough. We are Junction 7, named after our seven members.' Akiza then looked at him. 'You've only named six.' 'The seventh member will be revealed when they choose to be. Until then, Akiza will absolutely dismantle Jaden.'

By this time Jaden had made an entrance, with Blair by his side. 'If you want to lose so badly, you could just challenge me now. We're not paid by the hour.' 'Thought you'd never ask. 'Maltby then decided to walk out there to make things official. 'I mean you aren't scheduled for right now, but if you want to duel, then who am I to say no? But just to make sure there's no technicalities in the way, Blair and Kieran have to leave first.' Once they had both departed, the duel was able to begin.

Egotistical Eight Tournament Round 1: Jaden Yuki LP:8000 vs. Akiza Izinski LP:8000

Turn 1: Jaden: 'I'll start off. Because I control no monsters, I can Special summon Evil Hero Infernal Prodigy (Atk:300). I'll then tribute it to set a monster and end my turn with one set card.'

Akiza: 'You know what I do to cowards, right?' 'About as well as you know that I'm no coward.' 'Before that might have been the case. But you sold your soul.' 'They bought it for a price I couldn't refuse. I wield all this power now. You could have had so much, but you had to try and take everything that didn't belong to you. You build a revolution on ambition without greed.' Akiza was incensed by this. 'Your poxy revolution was built on the lies of a false prophet. He promised you all everything, but what did you get? Nothing, and then he hands over what was promised to me, to the demon spawn.'

'So now it's time for me to take back what's mine. I'll heal my scars by making all of you hurt. I draw. I'll summon Aromage Rosemary (Atk:1800). Then I'll sow the seeds of my Aroma Garden field spell.' As the quaint garden bloomed, Jaden just stared at it. 'I don't recall asking for a botany lesson.' 'Oh you didn't, this one's free of charge. But once you're in the garden, you've got to be careful of the thorns. You have to leave it perfectly pruned.'

'Your point is?' 'Each turn, this garden gives me 500 Life points, and until the End phase, my monsters gain 500 Attack and Defence (Akiza LP:8000-8500, Atk:1800-2300). And when I gain Life points, Rosemary changes the battle position of your monster. Forcing it into Attack mode (Evil Hero Sinister Necrom Atk:1600). Now Rosemary, attack over his monster. Make him feel the pain.' Rosemary fired out a series of shimmering blue petals from her staff, which pummeled the exposed Necrom (Jaden LP:8000-7300). 'I end my turn with two face-downs.'

Jaden: 'I draw. I'll activate the effect of Evil Hero Adusted Gold in my hand. By discarding him, I can add Dark Fusion to my hand. Then I'll activate Dark Fusion, to fuse together Elemental Hero Wildheart with King of the Swamp, in order to summon Evil Hero Wild Cyclone (Atk:1900).' 'And you think that scares me? Take 100 of my points, I welcome you.' 'You heard the woman. Wild Cyclone, attack.'

Akiza just sniggered. 'How foolish. You really thought that I would let one of you hurt me again? I activate my face-down Enchanted Javelin.' 'It's a neat card. It's just too bad that Wild Cyclone turns off your Spells and Traps during the Battle phase.' As a stiff downdraft suppressed Akiza's face-downs, Wild Cyclone ripped apart Rosemary with a fierce slash of sharp feathers (Akiza LP:8500-8400).

'And when Wild Cyclone inflicts damage to you, he rips apart your face-downs.' 'Not if I activate them first.' 'It's still the Battle phase dumbass.' This left Akiza with little chance to protect her cards from total annihilation at the wings of the Evil Hero. 'And here I thought you'd grown out of using Mirror Force. I end my turn with a face-down.'

Akiza: 'The baby gloves are off. I draw. I'll summon Twilight Rose Knight (Atk:1000). And when my Knight is summoned, he'll call out Lord Poison (Atk:1500). And with these two monsters, I'll tune them together, and Synchro summon Black Rose Moonlight Dragon (Atk:2400).' 'It's not quite what I was expecting.' 'No, well you'll just have to deal with it. Moonlight Dragon, when she's summoned, bounces a Special summoned monster on your field back to your hand. And I only have one target.'

Moonlight's petaled wings shone brightly, and the Wild Cyclone didn't make it to the Battle phase as it vanished under the blinding light. 'Moonlight Dragon, attack directly.' 'I activate A Hero Emerges. Now you have to choose a random card in my hand, and if it's a monster, I can summon it.' Akiza paused for a moment, and then stated 'Far right.' Jaden then grinned. 'I summon Elemental Hero Bladedge (Atk:2600).' Akiza then let out an audible sigh. 'I can only use the effect of Moonlight Dragon once per turn. I'll set two again, and end my turn.'

Jaden: 'I draw.' Assessing his options, he decided there wasn't many. 'I'll activate Reinforcement of the Army, to add Elemental Hero Stratos to my hand. Then I'll set a monster and pass.'

Akiza: 'Fine, my turn. I'll set a monster, and then attack with Moonlight Dragon.' Moonlight Dragon lashed Jaden's monster with thorns, destroying Jaden's monster (Hero Kid Def.:600). 'It isn't pretty but it'll pay off. I end my turn.'

Jaden: 'I draw.' He then mumbled to himself. 'One card closer', before looking back at Akiza. 'If you didn't want me to have Bladedge, you would have done something about it. Unless you can't. I'll set a backrow and end my turn.'

Akiza: 'I draw. So you didn't go for my monster? Fine, I'll tribute my face-down Hedge Guard for Aromage Bergamot (Atk:2400).' 'Do your worst.' Akiza's reply though, was particularly prickly. 'I didn't need an invitation. I'll use Aroma Garden to gain 500 Life points (Akiza LP:8400-8900, Bergamot Atk:2400-2900). And when I gain Life points, Bergamot gains 1000 Attack points until your next turn ends (Atk:2900-3900). Bergamot, burn Bladedge burn!'

Jaden then grinned. 'One of us is going to burn, but it isn't me. I activate Magic Cylinder. So all of Bergamot's Attack points are coming straight back at you. You've healed, now it's time for you to hurt again.' As Bergamot launched a burning aroma towards Jaden, the Cylinder produced a stiff gust of wind, forcing the scent back to sender, leaving Akiza rather upset (Akiza LP:8900-5000).

'I remember, I used to have a burning desire, like that sensation. It was about helping people, because I thought that's what the Renegades were, a band of brothers and sisters to help people in need. Turns out you're just anarchists, trying to destroy the entire world. So it's now my vow, my pledge, to get rid of every last one of you! My mission won't end until none of you roam this sacred ground.' 'That isn't going to happen. Because you'll never get past me. Now end your turn.' 'Not before I set this card in my Spell and Trap zone.'

Jaden: 'This revolution is worth more than you! I draw. I'll summon Elemental Hero Stratos (Atk:1800). Stratos' effect allows me to dig into my deck and retrieve a copy of Evil Hero Adusted Gold. Then I'll end my turn (Bergamot Atk:2400).'

Akiza: 'Well you've clearly got a death wish. I'd be happy to help you with that. I draw. Once again I'll activate Aroma Garden's effect (Akiza LP:5000-5500, Bergamot Atk:3900). Moonlight Dragon, attack.' 'It won't surprise you to see Negate Attack.' 'Well I was actually expecting a second Cylinder, but that works as well. I end my turn.'

Jaden: 'I draw.' He looked at the card and smiled manically. 'That's the way it is then? Fine, I accept the challenge. I activate Pot of Desires.' 'You think I'm scared of that?' 'Why would you be? I'm banishing 10 cards to draw 2. One of which is going to see me win. I activate Polymerisation, to fuse together Elemental Hero Ice Edge and Evil Hero Malicious Edge for Elemental Hero Absolute Zero (Atk:2500).'

'You're not keeping him. Moonlight Dragon's ability will take care of that.' 'I thought you would. Which is why I waited until I had everything I needed. In response to Moonlight Dragon, I activate Mask Change II.' 'You lead me on.' 'You lead yourself on by being too vain to take damage. And now you're going to pay for your insistence, because this sends Absolute Zero to the graveyard and replaces it with a Masked Hero of the same Attribute. Burn at the hands of Masked Hero Acid (Atk:2600).'

'When Acid is summoned, he melts all your Spells and Traps. Then your monsters lose 300 Attack to boot. Caustic Corroder.' Acid spat out a green fluid, which landed on all of Akiza's cards, and eroded the Aroma Garden (Moonlight Dragon Atk:2100, Bergamot Atk:2100). Then I'll activate Monster Reborn, to reincarnate Absolute Zero (Atk:2500). And Absolute Zero gains 500 Attack points for every Water monster on my field (Atk:2500-3500).'

Jaden then smiled. 'It's combat time! Take this - Absolute Zero into Bergamot. Ice Spear Rain.' The Fusion monster grew a handful of icicles on its hands, and launched them like javelins, smashing Bergamot into the ground (Akiza LP:5500-4100). 'Then Acid will take down your Dragon.' Acid launched a handful of caustic fluid at Moonlight Dragon, which quickly reduced it to a pile of bones (Akiza LP:4100-3600). 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Akiza: 'I draw. I'll set a monster, and end my turn.' 'There isn't much else you can do.' Akiza still seemed self-assured though. 'Don't be so confident - there's a difference between the only play and the best play.'

Jaden: 'If you want to lose quicker you could just concede. I draw. Looks like I'm just going to attack with Acid.' More acid was shot out from the Masked Hero's palm, but this time it failed to corrode its target (Aroma Jar Def.:400). 'Aroma Jar can't be destroyed in battle if it's flipped. Work your way past that one.' 'Challenge accepted. In Main Phase 2, I'll summon Elemental Hero Stratos (Atk:1800). Then I'll use Stratos' first effect to find another Hero monster in my deck. I'll grab a copy of Elemental Hero Prisma. I end my turn.' 'During the End phase, Aroma Jar restores 500 of my Life points (Akiza LP:3600-4100).'

Akiza: 'I'll give you one thing - you're persistent. I'll draw and set one backrow, before ending my turn (Akiza LP:4100-4600).'

Jaden: 'I don't know what you're expecting to achieve with that. I draw. I'll just set one and pass myself (Akiza LP:4600-5100).'

Akiza: 'My turn. I'll set another backrow card and pass (Akiza LP:5100-5600).'

Jaden: 'You can't hide forever.' He looked at his draw and smiled. 'And with this card, you will hide no longer. I activate Graceful Charity. I'll draw three and discard two. And one I discarded was Elemental Hero Necroshade. When it's in the graveyard, I can Normal summon without a tribute. You know I have him - the Elemental Hero Bladedge (Atk:2600).' 'You call it hiding but I call it careful strategy. No move is wasted.'

'Tell that to Bladedge when he's slicing up your Aroma Jar. Slice and Dice Attack.' Bladedge rocketed in, slashing the Aroma Jar as he passed (Akiza LP:5600-3500). 'I end my turn with a face-down (Akiza LP:3500-4000).'

Akiza: 'I draw. I'll activate my face-down Graverobber. This takes the Graceful Charity from your graveyard, and gives it to me, but if I don't use it by the end of the turn, I lose 2000 Life points. Not that it's going to be an issue. I'll activate Graceful. Then I'll set two cards and pass back to you (Akiza LP:4000-4500).'

Jaden: 'I draw. I'll summon Elemental Hero Shadow Mist (Atk:1000). But he's only here so he can be evolved through Mask Change!' 'Dark Law I take it?' Jaden grinned. 'You'd like to think so I'm sure, but it's actually Masked Hero Anki who's my choice (Atk:2800). And Anki can attack you directly, but the damage you take is halved. Anki, strike her down.' 'I activate Battle Break. If you've got a monster in your hand, you can negate my attack. Otherwise, Anki is destroyed and the Battle phase ends.'

Caught up in the moment, Jaden had forgotten about Shadow Mist's effect in the graveyard, meaning that he had no monsters in his hand, causing Anki to be eradicated from the field. 'I end my turn with a face-down (Akiza LP:4500-5000).'

Akiza: 'And now, it's time for you to fall. Because I will not be embarrassed by your kind any longer. I draw. I activate Monster Reborn, to revive Black Rose Moonlight Dragon (Atk:2400). Then I'll use the effect of Spore in my graveyard. By banishing the Level 2 Aromage Jasmine from my graveyard, Spore revives and increases its level by Jasmine's (Atk:1-3). Now Level 3 Spore tunes with Level 7 Black Rose Moonlight Dragon!'

As Akiza raised her hand, a new, bigger Dragon appeared, dark hues of red and pink adorning its petals for armour. 'From these two monsters comes a brand new hope. Blood red flower, pitch into bloom! I Synchro summon the new evolution, Blood Rose Dragon (Atk:3000).' Jaden didn't say a word, aware that the new monster must be powerful.

'I activate the effect of Blood Rose Dragon. Because it was Synchro summoned, I can banish every card from both our Graveyards. And because a Black Rose Dragon was used as Synchro material, every other card on the field is destroyed.' The evolved Dragon whipped up a vicious tornado with petals scattered inside of it, which slashed through every card on the field, leaving Blood Rose alone.

'Blood Rose Dragon, attack Jaden directly with Vile Thorn.' The Dragon viciously lashed Jaden with its whip-like thorns, dropping his points and leaving a nasty scar (Jaden LP:7300-4300). 'I'll end my turn with a face-down.'

Jaden: 'I draw. I'll set a monster, set a Trap, and end my turn.'

Akiza: 'My turn. I summon Fire Princess (Atk:1500). And she'll quickly roast your face-down monster. I have no fear of potentially losing a few more points, it's nothing compared to the pain you all caused me.' 'Fine, I'll activate Kid Guard. By tributing Hero Kid, I can negate your attack, and add Evil Hero Infernal Prodigy to my hand.' 'I hope it's worth it. Blood Rose, attack him directly!' Another vicious attack from Akiza's new ace left Jaden's points close to life support (Jaden LP:4300-1300). 'I end my turn with another face-down.'

Jaden: 'It's brave leaving your hand empty. I draw. I'll summon Evil Hero Infernal Prodigy through its effect because I control no monsters (Atk:800). Then I'll discard Vision Hero Witch Raider to summon Vision Hero Faris (Atk:1800). In exchange for locking me into Hero monsters for the turn, Faris can place Vision Hero Poisoner in my Spell/Trap zone face-up. Then I activate my face-down Graceful Revival to bring back Hero Kid (Atk:400).'

'And as I'm sure you know, when Hero Kid is special summoned, he calls out his siblings (Atk:400)x2.' 'Not bad. I knew this would be a match.' 'You've seen NOTHING yet! I'll link off all three Hero Kids.' 'You're Link summoning? Interesting.' 'Let this be your downfall! I Link summon the Link 3, Xtra Hero Dread Decimator (Atk:2500, Link Arrows = Bottom Left, Bottom Central, Bottom Right).'

'Dread Decimator, along with any monsters it points to, gains 100 Attack for every Hero in my graveyard. Over the course of this duel I've amassed 17 (Atk:2500-4200). Then I'll link off my other two monsters into Xtra Hero Infernal Devicer (Link Arrows: BL, BC; Atk:1700-3600, Dread Decimator Atk:4400). And when Infernal Devicer arrives, I can reveal Elemental Hero Neos Kluger in my Extra deck, then add Elemental Hero Neos and Yubel to my hand (Jaden deck: 5 cards).'

'Dread Decimator, tear apart Blood Rose Dragon.' 'I activate Half or Nothing. So you have the choice - either your monsters lose half of their Attack points, or you end your Battle phase.' In a fit of rage, Jaden made a rare error. 'I end my turn.'

Akiza: 'I draw. I'll set one and end my turn.'

Jaden: 'I draw. I activate Fusion Sage, to add Polymerisation to my hand. Then I activate it, to fuse Yubel and Neos for Elemental Hero Neos Kluger (Atk:3000).' 'And I'll respond with Mirror Wall. So go ahead and attack.' Knowing that he couldn't afford to attack, Jaden resigned himself. 'I end my turn.'

Akiza: 'Back to me so soon? You're so kind. I draw.' She saw the card, and nodded. 'My victory is certain. During my Standby phase, I'll pay 2000 Life points for Mirror Wall (Akiza LP:5000-3000). I'll just set and pass.'

Jaden: 'I draw. I'll set a backrow and pass.'

Akiza: 'My go. At the start of my Standby phase, I'll activate Life Absorbing Machine. So during each of my Standby phases, I gain back half the Life points I paid during the last turn. And when I gain Life points, Fire Princess deals 500 damage (Akiza LP:3000-4000, Jaden LP:1500-1000).' 'You've got the perfect trap.' 'There is no perfect trap. But this one will do. I'll pay for Mirror Wall (Akiza LP:4000-2000). Then I'll set another card and pass.'

Jaden: 'I draw.' 'I'll activate Pixie Ring. Now even if you wanted to attack Fire Princess, you're not allowed. At least while it's the weakest monster on the field.' 'I'll just set a monster and pass.'

Akiza: 'I draw. During my Standby phase there's just the three effects to resolve (Akiza LP:2000-3000-1000, Jaden LP:1000-500).' Assessing the field, she came to a quick conclusion. 'I don't need to do anything. May your demise be slow and burning.'

Jaden: 'I draw!' The reason why he continued soon became clear as he revealed the second to last card in his deck. 'I'll activate Raigeki. This will wipe your monsters out where they stand with no need to attack!' As it looked like he was about to win though, there was a sting in the tail. 'I activate the effect of Blood Rose Dragon. I can tribute her to negate your effect, then I can summon Black Rose Dragon (Atk:2400).' Reluctantly, Jaden accepted. 'I end my turn.'

Akiza: 'I draw. You know what comes now. Burn his life away!' As the fire raged, only Jaden's points hit 0 (Jaden LP:500-0). You lose.' Akiza didn't even raise a smile at her victory, remaining stern and totally stone-faced throughout.

Jaden's loss left the entire club in shock. Not least Jaden himself, who looked stunned. Meanwhile Akiza stared at him, but instead of taking direct action, simply turned and left. On her way out, she completely ignored DJ Tanner, as Jaden thumped the zone floor in anger. It took Blair talking to him about it to calm him down enough to leave, and she patted him on the back as they walked out together.

Backstage, he was furious. 'How could I let her get away! It was my job to take her down!' 'Calm it Jaden. She'll get hers. If she gets past Kalin, she won't get past Rio, Phil or Astrid. She's marked, remember.' 'I should have taken her.' 'Well sometimes it just be like that. Point is, we'll get her in the end. Especially now that I'm back. Oh, and we totally need to team up sometime.' Jaden seemed to like the idea. 'That would be cool.'

Jade then came walking up, but failed to choose her words wisely. 'Hey, how did Jaden lose?' He didn't take kindly to the question, but again, Blair cooled the situation down. 'J, she's still learning. I'll be right with you.' As he left, Jade looked rather embarrassed. 'Well that didn't go well.' 'It's fine, he's just annoyed.' 'I don't get how he lost when Akiza had Mirror Wall to pay for.' 'It's quite simple - if you've got a card on the field, you can't pay the cost if it's the same or more than your Life points unless the card says otherwise. And if you can't pay the cost, it's destroyed.'

'Thanks.' 'Anytime. Listen, I know I can't help you directly with the final duel against Belle next week, but if you need any advice, just let me know.' 'Thanks, but I'm doing this myself. Win or lose, it's all going to be on me.' Far from being annoyed, Blair appeared to like being spurned. 'I totally understand that. All I'll say is good luck.' 'Thanks. Hope you're looking forward to the date.'

The violet-haired girl gave a nervous smile in response. 'I'm really looking forward to it, just nervous that's all.' 'Listen, there's nothing to be nervous about. It's just you and me, ok?' 'I know… I'm just not used to people's attention being on me.' This caused an uproar of laughter from her partner. 'You do realise you duel in front of thousands of people right?' 'I know, but it's never me people are looking at. I'm just the other person. Besides, it's a totally different situation.' Blair walked off to find Jaden, leaving Jade to ponder how to make the situation more comfortable.

Meanwhile, Phil was just about to head off for his duel, when he noticed something wasn't quite right with his deck. 'Hannah, do you know where my Ulti copy of CDI has gone? You know, the one Lydia got me?' 'I know which one you're talking about, but I haven't touched it. I am retired, remember.' 'It's just that it's magically vanished from my Extra deck, and I saw you looking in there earlier.'

This confused his better half. 'Me? Why would I be looking in there? I saw every single card you put in it this morning. In fact, more to the point, I've barely left your side all day.' The two then looked at each other, and Hannah got on the phone. 'Yeah, hi Lydia, have you or Freja been morphing into me today by any chance? If so, can you give Phil his CDI back?' A short argument over the phone then followed, before Freja took the call.

'I was messing around earlier, but I didn't take anything. Check the CCTV - I put everything back.' 'Why were you even in there?' 'I was looking to see if you were using the card, because Lydia was convinced you'd left it at home.' 'No, I put it at the bottom of my Extra deck, it was the first card in there.' 'Yeah, I saw that. I'll help look later.' 'Thanks, I can always tinker with my Extra deck to make up for it.' 'Good luck.' 'Thanks. Astrid's not prepared for what I've got in store.' After exhaling loudly, he left for his duel.

The last Quarter-Final started with Astrid's music, as she appeared wearing a light brown fur-lined coat, with her kransen wrapped around the middle of her forehead. 'The following is the last Quarter-Final in the Egotistical Eight tournament. Introducing first, from Berk, Norway, Fearless Astrid Hofferson.' As Astrid reached the zone, the lowdown began.

"Astrid Hofferson is experienced, but is yet to really establish herself as a professional having made the step up from the Amateur leagues three years ago. She calls her deck A Ri Seier Tappert, which apparently translates as "Riding into Victory Valiantly". But will her concentration deliver her victory against stiff opposition?' In the zone, she took off her jacket, handing it to a staffer with the instruction to "not get it dirty". This revealed a new outfit consisting of a red sleeveless shirt and a spiked red skirt.

Shortly after, Phil made his entrance, sporting his newly grown out goatee and a buzzcut, his customary baseball cap firmly affixed to his head. 'Introducing her opponent, from Norden, England, the World Champion - Phil Robinson.' He walked down to the zone sternly, the crowd seemingly strongly in support of him. He and Astrid came face-to-face, and she offered a handshake, which was accepted (the new Renegade code). They then commenced.

Egotistical Eight Quarter-Final 4: Astrid Hofferson LP:8000 vs. Phil Robinson LP:8000

Turn 1: Phil: 'I'm first. I'll start with Cyber Emergency, to grab myself a copy of Cyber Dragon Drei. Then I'll summon Cyber Dragon Drei (Atk:1800). And because I did that, his effect makes all Cyber Dragons on the field Level 5. Then I'll chain Cyber Dragon Vier, which summons itself (Atk:1100-1600, Drei Atk:1800-2300, Level:4-5x2). Now I overlay them both. Open the door and touch the future, as I summon out the latest evolution of Cybernetic technology. Blast me into tomorrow, Cyber Dragon Nova! (Atk:2100).'

'Then I'll rebuild the overlay network with Nova. Life and death is a permanent cycle. It's time to break the circuit! Rank-up Xyz Evolution! Upgrade, Cyber Dragon Infinity (Atk:2100-2700). I'll end my turn with a set Spell/Trap.'

Astrid: 'Someone's taking this real serious. I draw. I'll set a monster, set three Spell/Traps and pass.'

Phil: 'All in the plan. I draw. I'll go straight in and attack with Cyber Dragon Infinity. Searing Strident Inferno.' 'I activate Storming Mirror Force. This blows your Infinity back to from whence it came.' 'Don't forget about Cyber Dragon Infinity's effect. I'll detach a material and your effect is negated (Atk:2700-2500). Nice try.' Astrid then grinned, eyes like a shark. 'On resolution I'll activate Witch's Strike. This destroys everything on your field and in your hand. Tough break.'

Despite this, Phil remained calm, even when lightning smashed his field and then destroyed the three cards in his hand (Cybernetic Horizon, Gorz the Emissary of Darkness, Chaos Dragon Levianeer). 'Damn, that hand was rough. What did you do to offend Odin?' 'Nothing, because unlike you, I don't need to pray to gods for victory. When I want something, I don't ask permission, I just take it.'

'Just like this - one of the cards you destroyed was Artifact Aegis. Because it was destroyed while face-down, I can summon it (Def.:2500). Also it's immune to card effects for the turn. This is how you take charge of your own destiny.' 'Silence! I may be the weapon of the gods, but only I determine if I win or lose. They give me strength, but I control my own destiny. I flip face-up Garmr of the Nordic Beasts (Atk:400). Then I summon Guldfaxe of the Nordic Beasts (Atk:1600).'

At this point, Astrid looked at the camera, and smiled. 'I hope you're watching Wolf-girl. I'll tune Level 4 Guldfaxe to Level 4 Garmr.' 'This… wasn't part of the plan.' At this point, Astrid howled, just like… a wolf. 'I Synchro summon my best friend's Lightning Tricorn (Atk:2800).' Phil at this point was very surprised. 'Ah… this is… interesting.' 'Lightning Tricorn, electrify Aegis.' The three-horned equine came prancing in at top speed, smashing the shield-like Aegis into thousands of pieces. 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Phil: 'That wasn't what I was expecting. I suppose I should give you a little bit of credit, but I'll be dead before I give credit to anyone with your surname.' 'You know I hate him as much as you do. Perhaps more, because it's my name he sulleys with his existence.' 'Don't pretend you understand. Only people who were there could understand.' By now Astrid was getting quite annoyed.

'Don't think you're anything special just because he insulted you. You're hardly the only one.' 'That may be, but there is a special hatred deep inside. And if I can't embarrass him again, I'll have to take out his demon spawn instead. I draw. I activate 5 Card Salute.' 'Doesn't Maddy have rules against using those cards on each other?' 'She may, but I don't fall under her jurisdiction. With this, I draw 5 cards, but I lose 4000 Life points if at least three remain in my hand at the end of the turn.'

'One of which was Monster Reborn. Be reincarnated from your rusting grave, Cyber Dragon Infinity (Atk:2100). And Infinity's effect allows it to snatch your monster as an Xyz material. Infinity Drain.' 'You must think I was born yesterday. I activate Lost Wind. This not only negates your monster's effect, but halves its attack (Atk:2100-1050).' 'Too bad I drew this - Rank-up Magic Triple Force.'

'Is that one of the cards that was being developed earlier in the year?' 'Yes, and I got an advance copy. This ranks up my monster into another Xyz monster which shares its type and attribute, but is 3 ranks higher. Also, I can't summon anything else this turn. I rebuild the overlay network with Rank 6 Cyber Dragon Infinity. Rank-up Xyz Evolution! Appear, Number 9 - Dyson Sphere (Def.:3000). I end my turn with two face-downs.'

Astrid: 'I draw! That will be useful later. I'll set one, and activate Fighting Spirit. This equips to Tricorn, and for all your monsters, Tricorn gains 300 Attack per monster (Atk:2800-3100). Attack Dyson Sphere.' 'Dyson Sphere, activate your effect.' As the canopy star dissipated into the sky before re-materialising, Astrid nodded. 'Thought as much. I end my turn.'

Phil: 'It's my turn.' He then briefly paused to check the cards in his graveyard, and Astrid pounced. 'I flip my face-down Mind Crush.' This left Phil flabbergasted. 'You have to be kidding me. Well go on, tell me what card you think I have.' 'Easy - I declare Chaos Emperor Dragon.' He stayed stoic for a moment, but then revealed and discarded his mighty Dragon, as the crowd gasped. 'There's nothing else I can do - I end my turn.'

Astrid - 'I'll start my turn by activating Premature Burial. I pay 800 (Astrid LP:8000-7200), and revive Garmr of the Nordic Beasts (ATK:400). Then I'll summon Gullinbursti of the Nordic Beasts (Atk:300). When he's summoned, he goes the whole hog and calls out another Nordic monster from my hand. I choose Tanngrisnir of the Nordic Beasts (Atk:1200).' 'Go ahead and call out Thor - I'm not intimidated by poxy gods or smoke and mirrors.'

Astrid then smiled. 'You heard him. I'm going to tune Level 3 Gullinbursti to Level 4 Tanngrisnir and Level 4 Garmr.' Surprisingly, Astrid's prayer to the gods was in English this time. 'Holy god of lightning, take the stand, tall as an oak and as strong as the sturdiest mountain. Lift your hammer which wields fierce storms with ev'ry swing, as I pray for the victory which you bring! Let me become your human vessel, the god of thunder and protector of mankind, Thor, Lord of the Aesir (Atk:3500).'

'Thor, I call upon your power most able, to negate the effect of Dyson Sphere. Show him what a god can really do!' Phil had considered this though. 'I'll counter with Infinite Impermanence. Not only is the effect of Thor negated for the turn, but so is the effect of your face-down card, which is what you get for an over reliance on gods and monsters rather than strategy.' Yet again though, Astrid was a step ahead of her foe.

'In response, I'll activate Solemn Authority. So until my 2nd End phase after this activates, all Aesirs on my field are untargetable by card effects. You seem to forget - even though you're grappling with gods, ultimately your opponent is still me.' As Thor shot a burst of lightning at the Dyson Sphere, the glowing panels went dim as it powered down. 'Thor, bring the hammer down! Thunderbolt Bludgeon!'

Thor swung his mighty Mjollnir, creating a storm before pounding Dyson Sphere with it, crumpling the massive canopy star as if it were paper. 'Lightning Tricorn, give him a propa thrashing!' As Astrid tried her hand at Geordie, the Tricorn speared straight into Phil's points, finally dealing the first damage (Phil LP:8000-5200). 'I end my turn.'

With the club

A majority of the club members seemed surprised at the start that had been made. But not Blair, Astrid's eternal rival. 'He's not had to duel Astrid in form before. You can just tell.' Lydia overheard this and got curious. 'So is she like this when she's dueling well?' 'Yeah, totally. You see, she's got this little secret where in between recounting old wives' tales and doing frankly hilarious impressions of Maddy, she's actually spent years studying psychology. She picks up on the slightest change in your expression, and knows what it takes to counter you.'

'Sounds real fancy.' 'She's probably the smartest person who nobody realizes is actually smart. Phil's got to get a foothold, but I don't see where it's coming from. She just isn't letting him in, and he's burned his best tools.' Hannah wasn't so sure though. 'Don't' count him out just yet. I saw his Extra deck, and it's pretty funky. He's really gone all in on the specialisation.'

In the zone

Phil: 'I draw. I might not be able to target Thor with card effects, but I can destroy it in battle.' 'I invite you to try.' 'That I will. I activate Future Fusion.' 'You think you're getting two turns at this rate?' 'You've got to work with what you've got. For now I'll set a monster, set another Spell/Trap and pass.'

Astrid: 'Your monster isn't surviving the turn. I draw. Well I know Thor's safe from card effects, so I might as well attack with it. Thunderbolt Bludgeon.' This time though, Phil had something else in mind. 'It's funny, because you considered almost everything. Except I'm not going after your monster. I'm going after my own. I activate Cybernetic Revolution.' Knowing what the Trap did, Astrid developed the slightest of grins. 'Welcome to the battle.' 'Save the welcoming party for this - I can tribute my face-down Cyber Dragon Herz to summon a Cyber Dragon-related Fusion from my Extra deck. Say hello to the three mechanical faces of fear - Cyber End Dragon (Atk:4000).'

'Then I'll use the effect of Herz in the graveyard, to add Cyber Dragon from my deck to my hand.' 'Not bad. I'll cancel my attack' 'Sorry, but you need permission to do that, and I'm not granting it. I activate R:Rage. Because the only monsters on my field weren't there at the start of the Battle phase, now all your monsters are forced into battle against mine.' A red mist descended onto the battlefield, and both of Astrid's monsters came charging in, only to be obliterated (Astrid LP:8000-6300). Astrid then considered her next move carefully. 'I'll end my turn with a face-down and opt out of Thor's effect.'

Phil: 'Why wouldn't you use the effect? I draw. I'll summon Cyber Dragon Drei (Atk:1800). Attack directly with Strident Shock.' The variated Cydra shot a blue ball of flaming electricity at Astrid, giving Phil a seemingly sizeable advantage (Astrid LP:6300-4500). 'In Main Phase 2, I'll set the link arrows. The requirements are two Machine monsters, including a "Cyber Dragon". So I'll use Drei and End Dragon to set the link arrows. From the skunkworks of my unholy mind comes the most optimized evolution of Cybernetic technology. Seek and destroy, Cyber Dragon Sieger (Atk:2100). I end my turn. 'During the End phase, I'll activate Call of the Haunted, to revive Thor, Lord of the Aesir (Atk:3500).' Phil then realised her plan. 'Clever girl. I take it back, you deserve a bit of credit.'

Astrid: 'I don't want your compliments! I draw. I activate the effect of Thor to disable your monster. Then I'll summon Valkyrie Dritte (Atk:1000). When she's summoned, she searches out Valkyrie Sigrun. Thor, destroy Sieger.' Thor's hammer made light work of the Link monster, crushing it and causing a short circuit (Phil LP:5200-3800). 'Dritte, attack!' The red-haired Valkyrie charged on her steed, slashing the air as she passed (Phil LP:3800-2800). 'I end my turn.'

Phil: 'It's my turn. I'll activate Trade-In. By discarding Ancient Gear Golem, I can draw two cards. I'll set them both and end my turn.'

Astrid: 'I draw. I'll tribute Dritte for Valkyrie Erste (Atk:1800). Her effect allows me to banish a monster from your graveyard to copy its Attack points. I choose Cyber End Dragon (Atk:1800-4000). Thor, send his Life points Abacka Beyont!' 'While you were having fun learning Geordie, I was actually strategizing. I activate Counter Gate. FIrst of all your attack is negated. Then I draw a card, and if it's a monster, I'm summoning it.'

The Counter Gate swallowed up the attack, and then a second gate opened to reveal Cyber Valley (Atk:0). 'Would be wouldn't it? Well I'm not leaving it on the field. Dritte, attack.' 'Cyber Valley effect.' As Phil drew his card, he seemed impressed. 'I end my turn with one set card (Erste Atk:1800).'

Phil: 'I draw. I'll activate my face-down The First Monarch. This summons itself as a monster of whichever attribute I desire, as long as I discard one card.' 'This will give something away.' 'Trust me, you're not expecting what I've got. I declare Dark (Def.:2400). And First Monarch counts as two tributes for said attribute.' 'Well you don't normally run any Dark monsters, so this will be interesting.'

Phil then smiled, and started to fire up. 'I think it's about time people started to realise just what I'm made of. I am going to take that title, and there's nothing that you, Rio, or anybody can do about it! I'll tribute my First Monarch in order to Tribute summon Dark Magician of Chaos (Atk:2800).' This proved to be an eye-opener for Astrid. 'Now THAT is a play.'

'It's even better when you consider its effect.' 'You're running the pre-errata? Woah.' 'I am indeed. And when it's summoned successfully, it recycles a Spell card from the graveyard. Guess which one I want? I'll give you a hint - it's the one that is about to draw me 5 more cards.' 'Salute.' 'Correct. So I'll use that and take my new hand. And now, it's time to really get going.'

Astrid stood there, and muttered 'Brace yourself girl, going to be a hell of a ride.' 'I activate Overload Fusion. I'll banish Cyber Dragon, Valley, Herz, Drei, Infinity, Nova, and Dyson Sphere from my graveyard for the Fusion summon.' The terrifying figure of his 7-headed Dragon then loomed over the field. 'Say hello to my massive friend - the ultimate weapon of carnage and destruction, Chimeratech Overdragon (Atk:?-5600).'

Instead of being frightened though, Astrid looked delighted. 'I want to see everything you've got!' 'Alrighty then. Firstly, Overdragon forces me to send DMOC to the graveyard. Then I'll activate Super Strident Blaze. The important bit here is that it stops you activating cards or effects during the Battle phase.' 'In that case I'll activate Threatening Roar now.' This caused Phil to show the slightest hint of frustration for the first time. 'You're a stubborn bugger you know that?' 'I aim to please.' 'I end my turn with three face-downs. More than enough to satisfy Salute's requirements.'

Astrid: 'I draw. I activate Valkyrie's Embrace. This switches Erste to Defence mode, and in return, I banish Overdragon.' Astrid's systematic onslaught continued as the Valkyrie flew off of her steed, and clutched the Overdragon, causing it to vanish into sparkles (Def.:1800). 'Thor, it's hammer time!' Thor's hammer swung wildly, gathering storms as it did, before smashing more of Phil's points to Valhalla (Phil LP:3800-300). 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

Phil: 'I draw!' He looked at his cards, and had an idea. 'You want to see something Astrid?' His eyes then widened. 'THIS is what happens when you push the World Champion to the edge! I summon Cyber-Stein (Atk:700).' 'How the hell are you paying for it? You need 5000 points and you have 300.' 'You'll see. First I'll activate DNA Surgery, to change every monster on the field to Psychic type.' 'Who cares?' Astrid then had a thought. 'I swear if this is what you're doing you might just be a certified genius.'

'Well certify away my dear Watson! I activate Telekinetic Charging Cell. With this equipped to my Stein, I can use his effect without paying Life points. I'll trigger it four times, and summon four Fusion monsters.' A cacophony of horrific threats then appeared. 'I summon Ancient Gear Howitzer, Barbaroid, the Ultimate Battle Machine, Arcana Knight Joker, and Blaze Fenix, the Burning Bombardment Bird (Howitzer Def.:1000, Barbaroid Atk:4000, Joker Atk:3800, Blaze Fenix Def.:2300).'

'I see you've built your ultimate board.' 'With this array of threats, you can't possibly survive. I'll give you credit though for pushing me to this. First, Blaze Fenix deals 300 damage for every card on the field. My field contains a meaty 9 cards.' 'There's four on mine.' '3900 damage it is then.' 'Not if I activate my face-down Life Force. With this, whenever you would deal damage to me, I can pay 400 Life points to negate the damage (Astrid LP:4500-4100). And now, you've got a problem.'

Phil didn't acknowledge her comment, but knew it was true. For destroying Thor would see him lose in the End phase, and Astrid's Trap prevented her from taking any damage. 'I'll attack your Valkyrie with Barbaroid.' Two electrified discs came flying out of the proclaimed "ultimate battle machine", which fried the Valkyrie. 'And because he destroyed your monster in battle, Barbaroid deals 1000 damage.' 'Go - Life Force (Astrid LP:4100-3700).' 'I end my turn.'

Astrid: 'I draw.' She eyed up the weak Cyber Stein, but quickly realised that there must be a reason for it being on the field still. 'Yeah, I'm not going after that. Because I control Thor, I can summon Ivaldi the Nordic Smith from my hand (Atk:1500). Then I'll activate Nordic Relic - Andvarinaut. As I just summoned a Nordic monster, I can summon one of a lower Level from my graveyard, by stripping it of all its Attack points. Return, Gullinbursti (Atk:300-0).'

'And now I'll tune Level 3 Gullinbursti to Level 4 Ivaldi! Son of the gods, please hear my cry, descend down from your domain, observing both heaven and earth, imbue this battle with your sacred power! I Synchro summon! Observe the power of the Synchro-Tuner, Balder, Prince of the Aesir (Atk:0).' 'So you're using some new stuff are you?' 'Indeed. Behold the power of Balder. If I am to use him as a Synchro material, he can change the Level of a Nordic monster on my field to anywhere from 1-4. I choose Level 1 (Thor Level:10-1). Meaning that Balder may now transfer his and Thor's power, and use it to create a new threat.'

She then plucked another new card from her Extra deck, face full of steel and determination. 'Dragon of solid crystal, sharper than knives, use your holy form to provide me with victory in our fight. Become a defender of the gods, for they put their mortal coils into your trust, and repay them with your eternal might! Soar from the stars, Crystal Wing Synchro Dragon (Atk:3000).'

Phil seemed highly impressed at this. 'I've never seen the monster before, but it's clearly 'Crystal Wing, attack Arcana Knight Joker with Crystalline Edge of Gale!' Phil seemed very confused. 'Fine. Joker, you know what to do.' Astrid waited to make sure there was no reaction time, and then revealed the secret. 'If it battles a Level 5 or above monster, Crystal Wing gains that monster's Attack points for the rest of the turn (Atk:3000-6800).' The superpowered Dragon dove in a crystalline spiral, slicing the head off of the Joker and securing a surprisingly comprehensive win (Phil LP:300-0).

Post-duel, Astrid gave a simple fist-pump to show her joy at winning. She then went over to her beaten opponent, and offered her hand. He looked at her for a moment, took her hand, and then pulled her close, as they exchanged words. 'Maybe I got you wrong. That was pretty impressive. Good luck in the next round.' He then turned to leave, but she stopped him. 'I'm looking forward to our next duel.' He smiled, and they shook hands before he left, leaving Astrid to soak up her victory.

Meanwhile at the airport

The group which had attacked the club members earlier dragged their beaten bodies back to the airport, only to be greeted by a man in his mid 40s, with long dark hair. 'What the hell happened to you? And where is the information?' 'Those white trailer trashers came armed man. Smacked the shit out of us. My head wouldn't stop bleeding for 20 minutes after being smacked in the back of it.'

The mysterious man shook his head. 'You are all completely and utterly useless.' 'So, uh, where's our money? We had a deal.' 'We did. The deal being that you have to bring me information on her. All you've brought is blood stains on my shoes - you know how much these cost? You should count yourselves lucky you're not being shopped to the local police for those drugs you've got there.'

The man then got his phone out. 'Yes, a taxicab please. Delhi Airport? My name? Kincaid - Alexander Kincaid. 10 minutes? Thank you.' The woman who lead the group then started following Kincaid down a narrow street as he walked. 'You little punk, you told me I'd have enough money to get off this shit, that you're a fair and generous man.' Kincaid kept walking, and the woman followed him, until she was suddenly attacked by a wolf leaping out from a nearby alleyway. Kincaid looked around, and seeing her getting mauled, shrugged his shoulders and walked off.

Next time: The WDC title tournament concludes, Phil discovers treachery, and Rio and Astrid go to war in a duel which has to be seen to be believed. Renegades: A New Dawn Chapter XXVIII: Survival