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.

48. At Miracle's Start?

Renegades: A New Dawn

Chapter XLIII: At Miracle's Start?!

At the end of Day 4, the Super 8s were recapped, highlighting Lukas' strong start, Kieran and Radley's consistency, Jaden's explosive victories, and Rio's strong end. Finally, Kieran announced that he was going to choose Radley as his opponent in the Semi-Finals, after their knife-edge duel at the back end of the Super 8s. This meant that Rio and Jaden would be facing off in the first Semi-Final.

In the hotel lobby, Rio and Phil were talking about the day. 'Right, the first objective is cleared, now we need to focus on Jaden.' 'Is there still a time limit?' '45 minutes, but i wouldn't concern yourself with that - if the time runs out you'll go to overtime until there's a winner.' 'What's the point in a time limit then?' 'Don't ask me, I don't make the rules. So have you thought about the deck you're using?'

'Yeah, I'm going to use Nekroz, no doubt.' The look on her manager's face suggested she was perhaps making a mistake, but his response was completely different. 'I trust your instincts.' 'Just need to put the finishing touches to the deck, I wanted to tech in some stuff for Jaden specifically.' 'You want to talk about that?' 'Just your standard Special negates, and some consistency stuff.'

Elsewhere, Jaden was putting his deck in its holder when Blair passed him in the cafe with Ally. Seeing him, she bent down to Ally. 'You get a seat and stay there, I'll be with you in a minute.' 'Ok.' As she did that, Blair talked to her old friend. 'So, today's the day?' 'Yeah, I suppose it is.' 'Listen, I just want to check that you're not taking it personally, what with me being in Rio's corner and everything.'

'Yeah there's no animosity, I totally get it.' 'You know that in any other circumstance I'd want you to win. I mean you helped me out so much when I was young and just coming up the ranks.' Jaden quickly silenced her before he got embarrassed. 'Honestly, in any other situation I'd want Rio to win, you know how well we get on and what I think of her. Thing is, I'm desperate to win this. These Championships have been going on for years, and it's the one thing I've never won. I've done everything else. I need this to say that I've done everything.'

'You're talking like this is your last chance.' 'Yeah, I've been talking with Maddy about moving into coaching at the arena full-time. I'm just not… this whole competitive sh*t isn't for me anymore.' 'I mean I can't pretend I wouldn't be sad to see you go, but I totally get it.' 'You planning on staying in duelling, what with Ally and everything?' The question appeared to take Blair off guard slightly.

'Yeah, hadn't ever thought of it. I mean you know me, I'd duel twice a day and twice on Sundays, I just love competing.' 'I guessed that by the fact you're a champion in four different independent companies in England alone.' 'Not my fault they keep offering me title shots. But no, hadn't really thought of it. Anyway I need to get back to little one.' 'Yeah, I need to get going myself.'

During the walk to the arena, Kris was trying to get some kind of reaction from Astrid, who seemed incredibly calm despite her elimination the previous day. 'So you're sure yo're ok?' She stopped, and turned round to face him, her plait bouncing off her shoulder as she did. 'I told you, I'm absolutely fine. I'm just concerned about the exhibition duel with Kalin, try and get a leg up in this ridiculous series.'

Creeped out by the famously competitive Astrid's sheer chipperness, Kris dropped back to ask Blair for advice. 'Hey.' 'Hey, how are you?' 'Yeah, not bad. Listen, is it just me, or is Astrid a little bit too… cheerful. You know, considering she went out of the Super 8s yesterday and her neck and everything?' 'Not really.' 'So this is a totally normal reaction to everything going on?' Blair just smiled, and patted him on the head.

'You've not known Astrid long clearly. She's super good at looking on the bright side of everything. She's clearly feeling alright, and knowing her, she probably wouldn't have thought about the Super 8s again until she got home if you hadn't have brought it up. She's just going to be laser focused on her duel today, this is a massive opportunity for her.' Before they could talk any more though, Astrid also dropped back. 'Blair, could I borrow you for some… girl talk?' She then pulled Blair over to one side, with the Michigan girl looking shocked as she did so.

'What's up?' 'Just wanted to ask you something, because if I win today I get to pick the next duel between me and Kalin.' 'Yep.' 'And I was wondering.' 'Yep.' There was then a pause, before Astrid said it quickly. 'I'm awful at asking for help but please could you give me some Highlander tips?' Blair's eyes lit up as she said this, Highlander being her specialist format. 'Totally, we can have some practice duels in the arena.' 'Sounds great.' 'Honestly, Highlander and duelling you, must be my birthday!' 'No, that's the World Championship Final.' 'For real?'

Astrid just grinned. '100%. August 1st, your 21st birthday.' 'I didn't know you knew my birthday.' 'Seriously? We've known each other since we were about 10, I'm pretty sure I'd remember your birthday by now. Besides, you're almost exactly three months younger than me.' 'May 3rd is it yours?' 'I mean I'm concerned you can't remember your favourite rival's birthday, but you got it right anyway.'

Just as they reached the arena, they were approached by an executive. 'Ms. Hofferson?' 'That's me, what do you want?' 'I've been asked to come by one Bolton Andrews, you're 20 minutes late for your duel.' 'But the doors don't even open until 11.' 'Apparently the change was made last night at the request of Kalin, he demanded the duel be held at exactly half past 10.' It was this that made Astrid realise something. 'Bolton and Kalin planned all of this!' 'You have 10 minutes to get to the arena, otherwise you will forfeit the duel.'

Hearing this, Jade shooed away the representative, and then took Astrid's hand. 'Jump on my back, and I'll get you there with time to spare.' 'You could just take my arm.' 'Yeah, I don't want to rip it off though.' Astrid leapt onto Jade's back, and the American-Iranian took off at breakneck pace. As they arrived, Jade gradually slowed down, and gently dropped Astrid off. 'Thanks, you're way better than Maddy at that.' 'Really?' 'Yeah, she goes so quick and has no brakes. This one time, she almost put me through the wall of the base.' After having a laugh at Maddy's expense, Astrid entered the arena.

With her music hitting, she entered first. 'The following is the 4th duel in the Best of Seven Series series for the WDC Championship, and is a 20 minute Exhibition duel. In this duel, there are no Life point totals, and the duel will last exactly 20 minutes. The winner will be the competitor who deals the most damage in 20 minutes. Introducing first, the challenger, from Alta, Norway, the Arctic Fox - Astrid Hofferson.'

Astrid walked out, looked at the packed crowd and smiled, before walking around and greeting fans as they chanted for her. In the zone, she raised her right hand, and a number of fans joined in with her. As they waited for Kalin, Astrid lead the fans in a loud chant of "F**k you Bolton", which did not go unnoticed backstage.

Eventually the signature harmonica echoed through the hall, and the champion appeared, garnering a shockingly negative reaction. 'Introducing her opponent, from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA, he is the reigning and defending WDC Champion, the Last Vanguard - Kalin Kessler.' Kalin walked down, throwing his trench coat to the ground as he did. In the zone, he and Astrid got straight on with the duel, as he refused to acknowledge a partisan crowd.

Duel 4 in the Seven Stars Series (20 minute Exhibition duel): (1) Astrid Hofferson vs. (2) Kalin Kessler

(Astrid hand: Valkyrie Sechste, R:Blowback, Nordic Smith Ivaldi, Tanngrisnir of the Nordic Beasts, Nordic Beast Gullinbursti)

Astrid: 'I'll open by setting a monster, setting a face-down and passing.'

(Kalin hand: Infernity Reflector, Infernity Wildcat, Infernity Paranoia, Infernity Conjurer, Infernity Necromancer, Archfiend's Ghastly Glitch)

Kalin: 'My turn. I'll discard a card to summon Infernity Wildcat (Atk:1400). Then I summon Infernity Conjurer (Atk:1200), and set two. Now Conjurer is going to make way as I activate Infernity Paranoia, sending it to my graveyard and replacing it with Infernity Necromancer (Def.:2000). And Necromancer can revive Conjurer because my hand is empty (Atk:1200).'

'Now I'll tune Level 3 Wildcat to Level 3 Conjurer and Level 3 Necromancer, so I can Synchro summon Mist Wurm! (Atk:2500). When Wurm is summoned, I can send up to three cards you control back to your hand.' As the Wurm filled the air with its noxious gases, both of the cards on Astrid's field faded from existence, reappearing in her hand. 'Now attack!' The whipping attack from a long body saw Astrid take the first damage of the duel (Astrid damage:0-2500). 'I end my turn setting one card.'

(Astrid hand: Valkyrie Sechste, R:Blowback, Nordic Smith Ivaldi, Tanngrisnir of the Nordic Beasts, Nordic Beast Gullinbursti, Mound of the Bound Creator)

Astrid: 'Right, since you won't help me out, I suppose I'll have to do it all by myself. I draw. I activate the Field spell Mound of the Bound Creator.' As this was declared, the ground shuddered, and several wooden pillars rose from the ground, chains attached to them. 'Next I'll summon Nordic Beast Gullinbursti (Atk:300). Gullinbursti's effect on summon allows it to bring back out Tanngrisnir (Atk:1200).' 'Might have known that's what you were hiding. You see, no imagination.'

Astrid wasn't bothered about the taunt however, as she knew her line worked. 'Don't mess with a winning formula. Talking about winning, Nordic Smith Ivaldi's always a winner, he can come on out any time I control a Nordic monster (Atk:1500). And he'll hammer out the opportunity for me to obtain a Nordic Relic, and I quite like Svalinn here. Now I'll tune Level 3 Gullinbursti with Level 3 Tanngrisnir and Level 4 Ivaldi. They will be the sacrifices as I call upon the might of the Aesir once more, my body a vessel for their power! I Synchro summon Odin, Father of the Aesir, may he reign with unparalleled might (Atk:4000).'

'Odin, destroy his Mist Wurm, slay the beast with Sacred Scepter Slash.' Odin swung his mighty weapon, and in an instant, slayed the Synchro monster (Kalin damage:0-1500). 'When a Level 10 or higher monster reigns victorious in battle with another monster, you take a further 1000 damage (Kalin damage:1500-2500). I end my turn.'

(Kalin hand: Infernity Necromancer)

Kalin: 'I draw. I'll summon Infernity Necromancer (Def.:2000), and I'll use its effect to reincarnate my Wildcat (Atk:1400). With Wildcat, I'll banish Infernity Conjurer to reduce the Level of Wildcat by one (Level:3-2). Level 2 Wildcat will now tune with Level 3 Necromancer, so that I can welcome out Ally of Justice Catastor (Atk:2200).' Astrid laughed off the new threat. 'Bring it on big boy!' 'You asked for it. Catastor, take down that overgrown peasant!' It turned out that Astrid's laughing wasn't cockyness, but confidence, as she knew she had the answer.

'I activate Nordic Relic Svalinn. This allows me to negate the effects of all monsters on your field until the end of the turn. Not that your monster's going to last that long, in fact it's not going to last 20 seconds.' This proved to be completely accurate, as Odin struck Catastor and made it fall apart (Kalin damage:2500-4300). 'And don't forget about Mound (Kalin damage:4300-5300). 'I end my turn.'

(Astrid hand: Valkyrie Sechste, R:Blowback, Graceful Charity)

Astrid: 'I draw. I activate Graceful Charity, to draw three and ditch two. Then I summon Ivaldi the Nordic Smith (Atk:1500). And he's going to craft a Relic from my deck. The template this time is Nordic Relic Gungnir. I'll then link off Ivaldi, to summon the daughter of disaster, the omen of approaching gods, Gullveig of the Nordic Ascendent (Atk:800).' 'Why would I be scared of that?' 'I'm not telling you to be scared, but you're going to be. With Gullveig I can banish up to three cards from my hand, field, or graveyard to summon that many Nordic monsters from my deck. But I'm only banishing the one, Alviss, to summon Tyr of the Nordic Champions (Atk:2000).'

There was more to come though, as the clock reached six minutes, Astrid was flying. 'Alviss' effect activates when it's the only monster banished for a Nordic Link's effect. I can banish a Nordic monster from my field, and two from my deck, to call upon another Aesir.' This made Kalin stumble back. 'You can what!?' 'I'll banish Tyr of the Nordic Champions, as well as Mara of the Nordic Alfar, and Vanadis of the Nordic Ascendant to Synchro summon Loki, Lord of the Aesir (Atk:3500).'

'And now, I can use my two Aesirs to strike you down. Fool's Gold!' The Aesirs produced a combined attack, with the lightning from Loki's outstretched finger combining with the beam from Odin's weapon, striking Kalin with righteous fury (Kalin damage:5300-12,500). With a gaping lead of 10,000 Life points, Astrid ended her turn setting two cards, as the fans continued to shower her with gratitude. She then started playing up to them, and for just a moment, her left eye changed colour from bright blue to a piercing green, scaring the life out of Kalin, who went to leave, only for Blair to block the exit. 'What are you - weak?'

(Kalin hand: Card of Demise)

Kalin: 'I draw. I'll activate my Card of Demise! Now I can draw three cards, but at the end of the turn, I have to discard my entire hand. Then I'll clear up your board by activating Dark Hole.' While Svallin ensured that Astrid's Aesirs could not be targeted by card effects, it didn't protect them from being destroyed by card effects, leading to Astrid's entire board being wiped clear. Just as Kalin started to gloat about the "weak" gods though, he noticed Astrid's graveyard slot was shining.

'What now!' 'Alviss has a graveyard effect. When it's in the grave, if an Aesir is destroyed by your card, I can banish Alviss from my graveyard' 'Alviss shouldn't be in your graveyard though.' 'Hey, I was talking!' Kalin then saw the error he had made. 'You sent it off Graceful.' 'Well no duh, how do you think it got there? Alviss' effect banishes itself from my graveyard, and in return, I can summon an Aesir from my Extra deck, so long as it has a different name to every monster in the graveyard. Come down with the thunder you create, Thor, Lord of the Aesir (Atk:3500).' Seeing a lack of options, Kalin paused briefly, before setting two and passing. 'In the End phase I'll banish Mara and Vanadis to revive Loki and Odin (Atk:3500, 4000). Loki adds a Trap from my grave to my hand, and Odin draws me a card.'

(Astrid hand: R:Blowback, Hidden Armory, Nordic Relic Brisingamen)

Astrid: 'I draw. I activate Hidden Armory. By skipping my Normal summon for the turn and sending the top card from my deck to the grave, I can grab any Equip card from my deck. I choose United We Stand, and then immediately equip it to Loki, giving him 800 Attack for every monster on my field (Atk:3500-5900). Now attack!' The three Aesirs combined their powers for a devastating-looking blast of electricity and light, dealing a terrible amount of damage (Kalin damage:12,500-26,400). 'I set one and end my turn.'

(Kalin hand: The Dark Door)

Kalin: 'I'll just activate The Dark Door, and then pass the turn back to you.' Kalin's actions were basic, but in reality they were all he could do, as he had to spend the next 8 minutes in a living hell, seemingly unable to even mount the slightest of comebacks. And Astrid had no intention of letting up.

(Astrid hand: R:Blowback, Goddess Skuld's Oracle)

Astrid: 'I draw. I activate Goddess Skuld's Oracle. Now I can see the top 3 cards of your deck, and place them back however I like.' As she placed them back, she started to gloat. 'How does it feel Kalin? To be completely powerless, to struggle futiley against your destiny, all the while knowing that it should have been different. For the outcasts to now be the ones in control. Fall and pray, and you will find our salvation. But fail to do so, and this is what happens, you get humiliated, and even when you cheat you still lose. Loki, punish him for his error.'

Loki appeared to look directly at Astrid, before firing lightning from its finger, frying Kalin even more (Kalin damage:26,400-32,300). 'I end my turn. This pain you feel, is only a portion of what could be inflicted, if only I wanted to. But I choose to give you more turns, so I can watch you SUFFER!'

(Kalin hand: Pole Position)

Kalin: 'I draw. I'll set a card and end my turn.'

(Astrid hand: R:Blowback, Solemn Authority)

Astrid: 'My turn. Skuld.' As she reviewed his newest card, she continued to taunt. 'You think the Renegades are dangerous now? Maddy will be back very soon, and when she is, you're all going to wish you had never made fun of us, never stood in our way, never doubted us. You can take us for fools, but you've been played by our might! Loki, attack again.' The mighty god struck once more, making the damage continue to rack up in extraordinary fashion (Kalin damage:32,300-37,200). 'I end my turn.'

(Kalin hand: Infernity Destroyer)

Kalin: 'Why are you like this?' The question appeared to surprise his opponent. 'Like what?' 'You're boastful and you're arrogant, and it… it's almost like someone's talking for you?' 'Nobody talks for me Kalin. This is a monster, but it's one you created. You see, it was you that beat me when I was at my weakest, you took advantage of me. Then you announced to the world that I was weak because you hadn't been through the same challenge as I had, it was you who tried to prove I was incapable. You were the one who objected to facing me again, and it was you who took every shortcut he could find in order to get the upper hand. For your crimes, this is your punishment.' With nothing to do on his turn, Kalin passed.

(Astrid hand: R:Blowback, Mystical Space Typhoon)

Astrid: 'I draw. I'll activate my Mystical Space Typhoon, ripping your Dark Door from the field.' With all her monsters free to attack now, Astrid went straight in. 'Now gods, as your servant I ask you to strike down your opponent once more, take your frustrations out on him.' Just as Kalin took the triple attack (Kalin damage:37,200-50,600), the buzzer went to signify the end of the duel.

'Your winner by a margin of 50,600 points to 2500 points, Astrid Hofferson.' The win took Astrid back to 2-2 in the series, and she stood over Kalin afterwards, and in an uncharacteristic show of aggression, drilled a kneeling Kalin in the face with a sharp knee, before walking off, signing autographs for the audience as she did. As he started to get up again, she sat on top of the entrance arch cross-legged, and held her hand out to the side, grinning. She then shouted down to him. 'Oh Kalin! Little me way up here knows that you've been a very naughty boy. Trying to make me lose by changing the time the duel starts is really cheap. You want to change the rules, move the goalposts.'

'So let's change the rules. Because I get to choose the next duel, and I want to even the playing field, find out who the real best is. We both know somebody who likes what we're going to do, we'll both get 60 cards, put them together, and take each other on in 60 card Highlander.' The fans cheered her, while Kalin looked at her in disbelief, the image of her sat up high burned into his brain.

Backstage, Rio was stood waiting for an interview, wearing her denim jacket and jeans. 'Welcome to the Baltic Championships Finals Day. My guest at this time, one of the Semi-Finalists, Rio Kastle. Rio, your progress through to this stage appears to have charmed the local audience here. You start here though as the rank outsider. Tell me at this time, how do you feel about your progress and being the outsider?'

'You keep talking about how I'm the "outsider", the "most unlikely to win", nobody expected me to be here. And to be fair, you're right - I am the outsider. I'm not established like everyone else, nobody expected me to get this far. The entire time everyone's talked about how I'm going to implode, how my lack of experience will kill me, how I'm just going to randomly collapse physically or something.'

'People like making excuses, they keep finding reasons for me not to win. I won't win, I couldn't possibly win, what would it say about the company if I won? How about what it would say about me if I won? I've got an advantage that nobody else here has - I'm not afraid of failing. All I've been through, people have got it wrong, they've been using it as an excuse. I'm using it as an inspiration, it's my strength.'

'It's my way of telling people that I'm ready. I'm ready to take any opportunity that I get, I'm ready to win. I'm not afraid of failure, because I don't believe I can fail. I've exceeded doctor's expectations by even being here, by even talking to you. Sure my speech is a little dodgy sometimes, and I can't walk amazing distances and my memory's awful, sure I'm technically "disabled" and will probably never get the chance to start a family of my own, but while I'm here, I'm going to do whatever I have to in order to achieve my goals, my ambitions, my dreams. My condition isn't my weakness, it's my strength. If I can beat death twice, and still be here to tell the tale, then I have NOTHING to fear.'

The interview made the crowd break out in a rather vociferous chant of "Ragna Nation", a chant which would largely ring out for the entire rest of the show. As the interview concluded, teh cameras immediately cut back to Kalin and Claude having a large argument. 'I thought I told you to stop her winning the title! Now she's only one more fluke away.' 'I have no intention of losing Claude, but it's nothing to do with you. In fact, if you keep trying to order me about, I might just throw the next duel purely to spite you.'

'You wouldn't dare.' 'Have you seen your winning record lately? It ain't good. Your obsession with her is destroying your career dude. I remember when you were WDC Champion last year, everyone was talking you up as the next big thing, you were going to take this company into the future. Now you can't buy a win, and it's all because you're obsessed with that rude little rugrat. So how about you concentrate on your own career, and leave blondie to me.' As Kalin left, Claude smiled, as he knew something Kalin didn't - that he was already top contender to the WDC Championship.

Flashback: Three Weeks Earlier

Bolton was sat at his desk sipping brandy when Claude stormed in, and slammed the door. 'A Best of Seven series? You have to be screwing with my head.' 'I didn't make the decision Claude, Geoff took it on himself.' 'So? Overturn it.' 'I've tried, but the board won't budge. They think it's a great idea. But, I can do one thing for you. Just sit down so we can discuss this. 'As Claude pulled his chair out, Bolton slid him a contract.

'You want me to sign this before reading it?' 'You can read it if you like, but it's all boring legalese. This is a contract which names you as the Top Contender to the WDC Championship. Our champion will be determined at Victory Road in Paris. This contract states that you get a shot the very next day at Under Siege.' Suspicious, Claude dug for answers. 'What's the catch?' 'There is no catch. Let's be honest, you want Astrid gone because… well that actually doesn't matter.'

'Good because I'm not telling you.' 'No need to be hostile to me. You have your reasons, and I have my reasons for wanting her gone.' 'Care to share?' Bolton just gave a sinister smile, his stubble moving with it as he pushed his glasses up. 'Do you ever wonder why I stopped duelling suddenly?' 'Not really.' 'It's because I was the one who organised James Birchall's attack on her. I wasn't having someone from the Amateur circuit trying to become a World champion. And little miss perfect Blair found out, and reported it to the Board.'

'Why did they allow you in charge then?' 'Because I am what you might call… an acting commisioner. All of my decrees come from Mr. Adams. But he's incredibly busy, so he lets me dole out the justice. Anyway, you can read through the contract, but you're going to find nothing else interesting there.' Claude took his time reading, but as predicted, he didn't find anything to object to, and duly signed it. As he shook Bolton's hand, there was a stark warning. 'Don't let me down Claude. I want her GONE.' 'That can be arranged. Just to warn you though, she's got connections. Outside of her Uncle that is. She's got a lot of skeletons she doesn't know.'

End of Flashback

In a separate area, Jaden was being interviewed regarding his Semi-Final. 'Ladies and Gentlemen, Jaden Yuki. Jaden, you've been professional since the second ever season of the WDC. Despite this, you have never been to this stage of the Baltic Championships before. Why is this?' 'My ranking was never low enough. For anybody unaware, this series started out as an opportunity for duellists outside of the established few to secure their place at the World Championships, by coming through a gauntlet of events. I never found it reasonable to enter.'

'But I then came to a realisation at the start of this season. I don't have long left in the pro circuit, nothing lasts forever, but the one thing I've never done is win the Baltic Championships. The one accolade I never earned. If I win this, I can truly say I am one of the greats, and that means a lot, it would to anybody. This might be my last opportunity to win it.' 'Now to move on to your opponent if we can.'

'I was waiting for this.' 'Rio Kastle has been one of the stories of this event. I know that you know Rio very well, just give us an insight to this.' Jaden's demeanour then changed, being less confrontational and more natural. 'I know some people have some preconceptions, but Rio is an absolute champion. She's honestly one of the nicest, most kind-hearted people you could ever meet. But I'm under no illusions, in that zone out there, she's a cold blooded monster.'

'And she's been through a lot.' 'She won't forgive you for saying that. You honestly don't know half of what she's been through, but she never uses it as an excuse. She just gets on with it, gets back up again. In any other situation, I would be desperate for her to win, overcome the odds, but this isn't any other situation. And in this situation, I am the one who has to do whatever he can do in order to stop her reaching the final.'

'Now in the Super 8s, you and Rio had a very competitive duel, but it ended because Rio ran out of monsters in her deck.' 'Yeah, well I hate fluking wins. I only beat her due to a fluke of fate, and that won't do. But I'm prepared for her this time, I know exactly what I'm up against. This time, I'm going to show Rio what the true difference is between a good duellist, and an all time great.'

In the zone

The rapturous crowd continued chanting, and then as the breaths heralding Rio's music echoed, they exploded in deafening raptures. Rio walked out, dressed in an all-red bodysuit, adorned with black bands around both arms and legs, and a baseball cap, with the words "Ragna Nation 4 Ever" on the back of the body suit. Without even looking at the crowd, she made her way down to the field, where she raised her fingers into a diamond above her head, before breaking it off into a raised right hand, shaped into a claw.

Her music was then replaced by Jaden's, and he emerged in all black attire, storming down to the zone, now acknowledging his lack of favour with the crowd. Reaching the zone, he entered immediately, and faced off with his opponent. They shared some very tense words, before their introductions were made.

'The following is the first Baltic Championship Semi-Finals, with a 60 minute time limit. Both duellists will start with 8000 Life points, and there must be a winner. If at the end of the time limit there is no winner, 2000 Life point Sudden Death rules will apply. In the case of a Double KO, both competitors will shuffle up and restart the duel from their previous life total.'

'Now introducing the competitors. First of all, representing the Renegade Nation, residing in Washington, England, she is Cold Blooded Rio Kastle. And her opponent, representing the Renegade Nation, residing in Omaha, Nebraska, the Legendary Hero - Jaden Yuki.' With introductions out of the way, Jaden and Rio began their semi-final.

Baltic Championship Semi-Final 1: Rio Kastle LP:8000 vs. Jaden Yuki LP:8000

(Rio hand: Nekroz of Brionac, Preparation of Rites, Choju of the Trillion Hands, Celestial Observatory, Blizzard Falcon)

Rio: 'I'll start. I activate Celestial Observatory, to return the Level 6 Nekroz of Brionac to the bottom of my deck and draw two cards.' 'Just as I expected…' Seeing her draws, she couldn't hide her disgust. 'I'll set a monster and end my turn.'

(Jaden hand: EN - Engage Neo Space, Neo-Space Connector, Cross Keeper, Over Fusion, Polymerisation, Miracle Fusion)

Jaden: 'I draw. I summon Neo-Space Connector (Atk:800). When Connector is summoned, I can bring out a Neo-Spacian or Neos from my deck. I summon Elemental Hero Neos (Def.:2000). Then I'll activate Over Fusion. By revealing a Level 10 monster or a Hero from my deck and sending it to my graveyard, I can make Connector's name the same as that monster for the turn.' 'So Connector just copies the monster's name?' 'Put it better than I ever could. I'll send Armed Dragon LV10.'

'What are you planning?' 'Polymerisation.' 'Ouch.' 'This fuses together the two monsters on my field, so that I can Fusion summon a new monster - fear the destructive power of Armed Neos (Atk:3500).' Faced with a brand new threat, Rio was clearly on edge. This wasn't out of fear though; rather, she was waiting for the opportunity to deal with the threat. She was ready for a challenge.

'Armed Neos, destroy her monster.' The new Neos fusion attacked with pulses of green static, frying Blizzard Falcon to the point of it exploding. 'Then the effect of Armed Neos, I can tribute it after battle to summon a Hero fusion from my Extra deck. I summon Elemental Hero Marine Neos (Atk:2800). Marine Neos, swing in.' With screeching sonar, Marine Dolphin dealt a substantial hit, giving Jaden the early lead, leaving the air to suddenly leave the arena, lulled into a stunned silence (Rio LP:8000-5200). And he was determined to press the advantage.

'I activate the effect of Marine Neos, which destroys a random card in your hand.' Another pulse of sonar came from the Dolphin, which shattered Rio's Choju from her hand. 'I end my turn.'

(Rio hand: Preparation of Rites, Nekroz of Clausolas, Manju of the Thousand Hands, Nekroz Kaleidoscope, Ojama Trio)

Rio: 'I draw. I'll activate Preparation of Rites.' 'Sure.' 'This lets me add Nekroz of Unicore from my deck to my hand. Then I'll fire off Nekroz Kaleidoscope.' 'Yeah, thought you might have that. Sending?' 'Cyber Ogre 2.' 'Level 7? You have the Clausolas in hand?' 'You betcha. I summon Nekroz of Clausolas and Nekroz of Unicore (Def.:2300, Atk:2300).' 'So, you going to use your effects then?' Sensing that this might be a trap, Rio opted for caution. 'I'm going to set a card and pass.'

(Jaden hand: EN - Engage Neo Space, Cross Keeper, Over Fusion, Miracle Fusion, Elemental Hero Spirit of Neos)

Jaden: 'I draw. I'll activate the effect of Cross Keeper in my hand, to revive Elemental Hero Neos (Atk:2500). Then I'll activate EN - Engage Neo Space.' 'Sounds pretty neat.' 'Because it is. By sending Elemental Hero Spirit of Neos from my hand to the graveyard and Neo-Spacian Aqua Dolphin from my deck to the graveyard, I can summon Neos from my deck and give it 1000 more Attack points.'

Rio though had a way to prevent this. 'I activate Ojama Trio. This will clog up your remaining monster zones by summoning three Ojama Tokens (Def.:1000). Oh, and don't even bother trying to tribute them for a Tribute summon, it won't work.' With nowhere to summon his second Neos to, it along with his two other cards all went to the grave for no effect. 'Well now I know that you're not hiding anything in terms of battling, I'll take down your Clausolas with Elemental Hero Neos.'

'Well when you do I'll use Clausolas' effect to reduce the Attack of Marine Neos to 0 (Atk:2800-0).' Neos punched straight through Rio's feathered warrior, keeping Jaden well on top. 'I'll end my turn (Marine Neos Atk:0-2800).'

(Rio hand: Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands, Mother Grizzly)

Rio: 'I draw.' After considering her move, she decided to again go for caution. 'I'll set a monster and pass.'

(Jaden hand: Over Fusion, Miracle Fusion, Neo-Spacian Air Hummingbird)

Jaden: 'I draw. I'll attack into your monster with Neos.' As Neos slammed his fist in, it turned out to be a large bear (Mother Grizzly Def.:1100). 'When Mother Grizzly is destroyed, she gives birth to a Water monster from my deck. Provided its Attack is lower than 1500. Here's a test for you - I'll summon Graydle Alligator (Atk:500).' This made Jaden stop in his tracks, as he knew that destroying Alligator would give Rio the chance to steal one of his monsters. The pause also allowed Rio some thinking time, trying to unpick the situation. Eventually Jaden just backed down and passed turn. 'I don't like the decision, but if you're going to get one of my monsters, you'll have to crash.'

Backstage

It was around this point that a thought occurred to Phil, who was stood backstage with Blair and Hannah. 'This… looks familiar.' 'Yeah, it's a card she's used before.' 'No, not what I meant. I mean this deck, this looks familiar. We, me, Rio and Belle, we were working on a new Nekroz build a few weeks ago, we never got it finished though because we couldn't find a variant that we were all happy with.'

Hannah just smiled at him. 'Well, it looks like someone got it finished.' Blair though, seemed surprised at his realisation. 'How can you tell just from this?' 'Because this exact Grizzly Graydle line was something that Rio specifically wanted to include, as a way of psyching out opponents. I wonder what else she has in there…'

(Rio hand: Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands, Noble Arms of Destiny

Rio: 'I draw. I'll equip Clausolas with Noble Arms of Destiny.' It was at this moment that Jaden twigged that he hadn't got his opponent's strategy right at all. 'Didn't have you down as a stall person.' 'That's the thing, I'm not playing a stall deck. Once per turn, Noble Arms of Destiny will protect Clausolas from either battle or card effects. So unless you're planning on summoning another monster with 2400 Attack points, I'm probably ok. Oh wait, you can't. I end my turn.'

(Jaden hand: Over Fusion, Miracle Fusion, Neo-Spacian Air Hummingbird, NEX)

Jaden: 'I draw. I'll attempt to use the effect of Marine Dolphin.' 'And I'll shut it off with Clausolas (Atk:2800-0).' 'I end my turn.' Desperate for an opening, Jaden started the mind games. 'I thought more of you than this - hiding behind cheap stall tactics.' 'I thought more of you than trying to start mind games with someone who doesn't give a crap about what people think of her because she's got a tournament to win.'

(Rio hand: Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands, Robbin' Goblin)

Rio: 'I draw. That could be useful later, I'll set one and pass.'

(Jaden hand: Over Fusion, Miracle Fusion, Neo-Spacian Air Hummingbird, NEX, A Hero Emerges)

Jaden: 'I draw. I'll set one and activate the effect of Marine Dolphin.' 'It's not going to work, I activate the effect of Clausolas (Atk:2800-0).' 'I end my turn.'

(Rio hand: Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands, Hidden Armory)

Rio: 'My turn.' As she drew, she stopped, and started to see a path to victory. 'With this one card the game has changed.' 'What one card could be so impactful?' 'I activate Hidden Armory.' 'Don't you… kind of need your Normal summon?' 'Not really. Not when I can mill a card from the top of my deck to grab a copy of Premature Burial. Now I'll activate Premature Burial, to pay 800 (Rio LP:5200-4400), and revive Choju of the Trillion Hands (Atk:1400).'

'The damn mill.' 'Actually, I have to thank you for this.' 'How?' The penny then dropped with him. 'Marine Dolphin's effect.' 'Correct. Choju's effect allows me to add a Ritual spell and a Ritual monster from my deck to my hand when he's summoned. I'll grab Gishki Aquamirror and Gishki Zielgigas.' 'You're playing Gishki?' 'So much for stall eh? I activate Gishki Aquamirror. The materials for this summon will be the Level 6 Choju of the Trillion Hands and the Level 4 Djinn Presider of Rituals that I just milled.'

'You jammy' 'Would it make you feel better if you knew I had material in hand anyway? I summon Gishki Zielgigas (Atk:3200). Now I activate the effect of Zielgigas. By paying 1000 Life points (Rio LP:4400-3400), I can draw another card. If it's a Gishki monster, I can shuffle any card from the field into the deck.' Rio drew, and revealed Nekroz of Valkyrus. 'No matter, I'll attack into Neos with Zielgigas.' This was a carefully-planned move, as Marine Neos had been largely neutralised by Clausolas, and Rio was about to reveal her plan.

'I activate my face-down Robbin' Goblin. Now when you take Battle damage, you also lose a card from your hand.' This would occur very soon, as Jaden had no way to prevent the attack (Jaden LP:8000-7300). 'Effect of Robbin' Goblin.' A tiny green goblin materialised from the trap, and after checking the coast was clear, dashed towards Jaden's hand, sniping the Miracle Fusion from it. 'Hey I needed that!' 'Too bad. Now Zielgigas was summoned using Djinn Presider of Rituals as a material, meaning that whenever it destroys a monster in battle, I draw a card. See you next turn.' The previously silent crowd were starting to liven up now, having seen their favourite start to fight back.

(Jaden hand: Over Fusion, Neo-Spacian Air Hummingbird, NEX, Neo-Spacian Glow Moss)

Jaden: 'I draw. I summon Neo-Spacian Glow Moss (Atk:300). Then I'll activate NEX, which upgrades Glow Moss to Neo-Spacian Twinkle Moss (Def.:1100). I end my turn.'

(Rio hand: Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands, Nekroz of Valkyrus, Nekroz Kaleidoscope, One Day of Peace)

Rio: 'I draw. I'll activate the effect of Clausolas, which drops the Attack of your monster to 0 (Atk:2800-0). 'Now Zielgigas attacks into your Marine Neos.' Zielgigas' attack was a wall of water slamming into Marine Neos, ripping it apart with vicious force (Jaden LP;7300-5100). 'I end my turn.'

(Jaden hand: Over Fusion, Neo-Spacian Air Hummingbird, Pot of Greed)

Jaden: 'I draw. I Pot of Greed, to draw two. Then I can activate EN Shuffle. This shuffles an Elemental Hero or Neo-Spacian from my hand into my deck, and summons out one of a different name from my deck. I'll send back Air Hummingbird, and welcome out Elemental Hero Bladedge (Atk:2600). Now take down her Clausolas with Slice and Dice Attack. I'll also add on Mystical Space Typhoon to make sure that her Arms of Destiny don't get in the way.' The shiny, gold-plated hero shot across the field with rocket-propelled pace, cleaving through the now weapon-less Nekroz (Rio LP:3400-3100).

'After that, I'll use the effect of EN Shuffle in the graveyard, shuffling back Neos and Glow Moss from my graveyard to draw a card. I'll pass my turn.'

(Rio hand: Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands, Nekroz of Valkyrus, Nekroz Kaleidoscope, One Day of Peace, Mage Power)

Rio: 'My turn. I'll set a card back, and activate Mage Power, equipping to Zielgigas, which gives it another 500 Attack for every Spell/Trap I control (Atk:3200-4200). Now attack Bladedge with Cursed Current.' Zielgigas claimed another victim, this time splitting Bladedge into pieces, almost evening the scores (Jaden LP:5100-3500). 'I end my turn.'

(Jaden hand: Over Fusion, Battle of Sleeping Spirits, Battle Gravity)

Jaden: 'I draw. I'll go straight to my Battle phase, and activate Battle Gravity. Now when our monsters battle, the stronger monster of the two has its attack reduced so that they are equal in strength. Neos, attack Zielgigas with Wrath of Neos.' As the Hero rushed in, the effect of Jaden's Spell activated, reducing the power of Zielgigas (Atk:4200-2500), and making them crash. Jaden had one more trick though.

'From my hand I'll activate this - the Battle of Sleeping Spirits. This will revive both our monsters that were destroyed in battle this turn. And because Neos is being revived, this card doubles his Attack and they do battle again (Zielgigas Atk:3200, Neos Atk:2500-5000).' This time, there was no tie as Neos smashed his fist straight down on top of the mighty Ritual, almost wiping Rio out (Rio LP:3100-1300). 'I end my turn (Neos Atk:5000-2500).'

The crowd had been largely silenced by the previous turn, with Jaden once again significantly ahead. Backstage, the atmosphere was tense, with Phil having his face in his hands, while Blair was praying for a break. Rio's confidence didn't seem to have diminished though, as she took a moment, regrouped, and then drew her next card.

(Rio hand: Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands, Nekroz of Valkyrus, Nekroz Kaleidoscope, Shurit, Strategist of the Nekroz )

Rio: 'Because I have no monsters on my field, I activate the effect of Nekroz Kaleidoscope in my graveyard, banishing it and Clausolas to add Nekroz Cycle to my hand. Then I'll activate Cycle, which allows me to tribute Shurit, Strategist of the Nekroz, and Ritual summon Nekroz of Unicore from my graveyard (Atk:2300).'

'Because Shurit was tributed for a Ritual summon, he adds a Nekroz Ritual monster to my hand, as long as it's a Warrior. I'll grab another Unicore. And I'll activate Kaleidoscope.' Now Jaden started to understand the reality of the situation. 'You're good, really good.' 'Ill send Level 12 Five Headed Dragon to my grave and summon Unicore and Valkyrus (Atk:2300, 2900).'

'Valkyrus, go to battle and destroy Neos.' The new monster lifted its dragon-head staff, before launching it like a javelin, embedding in the Hero and removing it from the field (Jaden LP:3000-2800). 'And Robbin' Goblin will snatch another card from your hand.' As the only card left in his hand, it was Over Fusion which got taken away. 'Now Unicore, destroy Neo-Spacian Twinkle Moss.' 'When Twinkle Moss is attacked, I draw a card, and depending on the supertype, I get an effect.' 'All you're getting is some reading lessons - Unicore negates the effects of anything summoned from the Extra deck.' This reveal lead to Twinkle Moss being speared into submission, leaving Jaden with only Tokens on the field. 'I end my turn.'

(Jaden hand: Miracle Contact)

Jaden: 'I draw!' As he flipped the card, he grinned. 'I'm still in there. I activate Miracle Contact! This lets me shuffle the materials from a Neos fusion monster back into my deck from my graveyard, and summon that monster. I'll shuffle back Neos, Marine Dolphin, Air Hummingbird, and Glow Moss, to Fusion summon Elemental Hero Cosmo Neos (Atk:3500). Cosmo Neos, attack Nekroz of Unicore.' Cosmo Neos fired a blinding ball of fury straight into Unicore, destroying it, leaving Rio clinging on, and finally, she showed the first sign of strain, as her knee buckled slightly (Rio LP:1300-100).

Still being willed on by a partisan crowd, Rio stopped herself going down to a knee, and instead stood back up straight, impressing Jaden. 'Am I glad I got to beat you.' 'You're not done yet.' 'Do your worst then. I end my turn.'

(Rio hand: Card of Demise)

Rio: 'I draw. I activate my Card of Demise, so I draw three, but discard my hand at the end of the turn. Then I'll activate Shrink, to cut the attack of your monster in half (Atk:3500-1750). Now I can destroy it with Valkyrus.' The Ritual shot its staff into Cosmo, taking down Jaden's powerful ally, but dealing no damage due to Rio's Card of Demise. 'Now I'll activate my face down One Day of Peace. Neither of us take damage until the end of your next turn, but we both draw a card. I'll set two and pass.'

(Jaden hand: Hero Kid)

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

(Rio hand: Fairy Meteor Crush, Blizzard Falcon)

Rio: 'I draw.' Despite the apparently difficult situation between them, Rio had a plan as regards winning. She just needed the right draw or some assistance. 'I'll activate Fairy Meteor Crush. This will allow Valkyrus to pierce through your monster's defences when it destroys whatever you've got.' Valkyrus slammed its staff through Jaden's monster (Hero Kid Def.:600), dropping Jaden's points low in the thrilling contest (Jaden LP:2800-500). 'I end my turn.'

(Jaden hand: Neos Fusion)

Jaden: 'I draw. I activate Neos Fusion, fusing together Neos and another Hero Kid from my deck to Fusion summon Elemental Hero Brave Neos. It gains 100 Attack points for every Neo-Spacian or Hero in my graveyard (Atk:3100). Now attack!' 'I activate my face-down Defence Draw. This reduces my damage to 0 and draws a card.' As she did, she saw the exact card she was dreaming of. Too wise to show it though, she cowered from her monster being muscled through. 'I end my turn. It's your go.'

(Rio hand: Blizzard Falcon, Blizzard Thunderbird, Nekroz of Brionac)

Rio: 'I draw. I summon Blizzard Thunderbird (Atk:1600). And with its effect, I'll discard one card and return Thunderbird to my hand to summon a Water-attribute Winged Beast from my hand, and one from my graveyard. I'll summon two Blizzard Falcons (Atk:1500)x2.' 'Thankfully you don't have anything to boost them.' At this moment,Rio's right eye lit up scarlet pink. 'This power I possess, will be used for my own will! I overlay my two Level 4 monsters to build the overlay network. Barian's power, born of chaos, be harnessed by the one whose blood holds your power! I Xyz summon Number 103 - Ragnazero (Atk:2400).'

As this happened, sections of the crowd started to realise what was happening, and got incredibly loud again for the first time since Rio first went behind. As more and more twigged, Rio announced it to the world. 'By detaching a material, Ragnazero can destroy your monster because its current Attack is different to its original Attack. Then I draw a card. Moonblade Blitz!' Ragnazero cut down Jaden's Brave Neos with sharp slices, leaving him defenceless. 'For the win!' Her monster swung in once more, and Jaden had nothing to respond with. He just wistfully looked at the scoreboard hit (Jaden LP:0).

As the duel concluded, Jaden walked straight over to Rio, who appeared to be having a little bit of trouble breathing. She smiled, shook his hand, and took two steps, before collapsing to her knees gasping for air. With the crowd looking on pensively, he hurriedly provided her with some water, before taking her to the medical bay, as the fans applauded both duellists' efforts.

As Phil and Blair got to the medical area, Rio was up and talking. 'Gave us a scare there missus.' Sakura then turned around to them. 'She's absolutely fine.' 'What happened then?' 'My guess is exhaustion. She also had a lil' bit too much of those cannabis cigs that she's been taking for nerves.' 'And the breathing?' 'Not sure, maybe dehydration, maybe a little bit of tachycardia due to tension, maybe humidity, Jaden did say he was struggling a little out there, they've really ramped the heating up.' 'But she can compete in the final?' Sakura nodded, and smiled. 'We'll do another check up beforehand, but I don't see any reason why not. My advice is for her to get some sleep, and to drink plenty.'

Sakura then stepped back, to allow Rio's excited partners in. Immediately Phil just put his hand on her shoulder. 'I'm proud of you.' 'Thanks. That was tough.' 'Jaden will give your game the best examination it's ever had.' 'No kidding, that was brutal.' 'Just one more to go now. You're almost there.' Blair then gave her a hug. 'Blair… need to breathe.' She then gingerly let her friend go. 'Erm… sorry I guess.' 'It's ok.' 'Listen, why didn't you tell us about not sleeping, we could have helped you.'

'It was just last night, I spent all night thinking about today and what was gonna happen. I'm under no illusion about what this could lead to.' 'The worst thing you can do is think that way. I know it's easier said than done but take it one duel at a time. The next duel is "just another duel".' At this point, Phil saw that Hannah was signalling him from the entrance, suggesting she wanted to speak to Rio alone.

Thinking quickly, he tapped Blair on the arm. 'Everything ok?' 'Yeah, just what Sakura said about Rio getting some sleep.' 'Oh yeah, of course. See you later.' 'I'll be back with you by lunch.' 'As long as you're looking after yourself.' The two of them left, Blair sharing pleasantries with Hannah on her way out. The expectant mother then walked in, and shut the door.

'Hey.' 'Hi, I wanted to talk to you.' 'Honestly, I need to talk to you as well. You first.' 'I hear you've been using weed. To control your nerves?' 'It's not really for nerves, Sakura suggested it because I had issues with tremors in my hand. I didn't even mean to take too much this morning, I just… I was so wrapped up in my own head with nerves that I didn't think about it at all. Listen, I wanted to ask you about something you said to me yesterday.'

'Sure.' 'It's just something you said in passing, about not knowing how much Phil does for me.' Sighing, Hannah knew this would take a while. 'Yep.' 'I know it's probably a lot, but could you… explain maybe?' 'Listen, Phil does so much behind the scenes, I don't think anybody would truly believe it. I've seen him up at half 3 in the morning mapping out deck ideas, you know, I've seen him not going to bed until 2 because he was revising training schedules. You're not having to qualify for events, because he spent hours on the phone on multiple days to make sure that you actually got to experience the big leagues.'

'He's always been the one keeping things running behind the scenes. The amount of sleepless nights from trying to work out how to get you noticed, from thinking about how to improve your careers. I saw you used the deck variant he made earlier.' 'Yeah.' 'Did he tell you that it took him four days of mapping and testing? This isn't meant to guilt trip, I'm just trying to show you that so much of the work is behind the scenes. That's why he cares so much about you doing well - this is his job, he's invested in you as a talent.'

This proved to be a rather sobering thought for Rio. 'Thanks, I think I needed things putting in per' 'Perspective? Don't worry, I got you. He's hard headed, he's stubborn, he's… a lot like you actually.' 'I should calm down with him. Blair was saying that she sold her soul for him to make her a World Champion, I should be just listening to him more.' Hannah smiled, knowing that the truth was more complicated.

'You've got the right idea with the way you deal with him. Blair is… fantastic. She's an absolutely beautiful person, but that girl has absolutely no sense of self confidence. I wish she'd question him more, because she's smart, and he isn't always right. Blair has experience, but you're the one with confidence. It's all about knowing how to use your confidence, and that's something that nobody else can teach you.' Hannah left the medical area, leaving Rio with much to consider ahead of her final.

Elsewhere, the interviews of the Final Four continued with Radley. 'Ladies and Gentlemen, Radley. Now Radley, your progress through the Super 8s was surprising for many, as you're not known for your singles prowess, but you scored a number of impressive victories in that stage. Did it come as a surprise to you this progress?' 'Not at all. I've spent most of my career as just somebody's partner. I was just Kris' tag partner when he left, then I'm just Kari's tag partner. I'm always just someone else's partner, well now I'm stepping out on my own. It's high time people learned that Radley is more than just everybody's secondary bitch.'

'You've talked about "bringing honour back to the WDC", and that is why you've started accepting any and all challenges. What is it that you're trying to achieve with that?' 'The company is being run into the ground by corrupt frauds, and is being run roughshod over by a group of dirty stinking societal rejects. That is why I joined The Regiment, to bring honour and dignity back, so we can compete like real duellists, rather than like street thugs.'

'Talking of doing things the right way, you were chosen by Kieran Byrne to be his opponent after he topped the Super 8s.' 'I was.' 'Is there any reason you can think of that he might have done this?' 'I respect Kieran, he wants the challenge, he's all about beating the best, taking down anybody who is in front of him, but he does it with respect and honour. He doesn't need to ambush people or spit in their faces. But I'm still going to beat him, because I have something he doesn't.'

'And what is that?' 'The will to win. I have that extra 1% that he doesn't. He's extremely good, but he doesn't care. He could lose this duel and that will make no difference to him, he's only here for the money. I, on the other hand, am here because I care about pro duelling and care about making things right.' 'Well I wish you the best of luck in your duel later.' The interview then cut off prematurely, to play Maddy's propaganda video again.

Meanwhile, in Kalskoga

Maddy arrived on the borders of the town, and immediately set out to find some signposts. After a little bit of walking, she managed to find a local shop. Thinking quickly, she entered, and remembering the Norwegian word for map, she spoke to the cashier, who produced a street map of the area. Directions in hand, she left the shop, and outside, mapped out her route. 'Right, so I'm here, looks like I need to be heading East.'

She then stopped for a moment, and felt the air. 'Great, and there's a snowstorm coming. Better break out the hardcore stuff.' Placing her backpack down, she got out a thick winter coat, a brown leather headband to keep her hair back, and a second pair of fleece-lined gloves. Eyes lighting up the cold, she started marching through the snow lined streets, her destination decided.

After nearly 40 minutes, she managed to find the house. As her eyes returned to their normal chestnut colour, she took a couple of breaths, and then knocked firmly on the door of the small house. There was initially no response, but as she went to knock again, she heard a key in the door, and then the lock clicked, before the door creaked open. As the woman at the door stood, confused, Maddy took a chance.

'Mille Hofferson?' 'Who is asking?' 'Jeg heter Maddy, jeg er venn med datteren din, Astrid Hofferson. Hun ønsker å komme i kontakt igjen, men kunne ikke komme hit, så jeg tilbød meg å hente henne. Kan jeg komme inn? (My name is Maddy, I am friends with your daughter, Astrid Hofferson. She wants to get back in touch but couldn't come here so I offered to pick her up. Can I come in?) Nodding, Mille stepped aside. 'Come in.'

In Estonia

The interviews continued, this time with Kieran sitting down. 'Thanks for coming Kieran.' 'No problem.' 'Well you finished top of the Super 8s, you got to choose your opponent as a result. Tell me, how important was it to get that opportunity?' 'Yeah, it's nice to know your opponent. Still got to beat him though.' 'Why did you choose Radley specifically?' 'Because he's the biggest threat. I know if I beat him I'll beat anyone.'

'Let's talk a bit about you know if you don't mind, because for so long in your career you have played the backup, you've always been in the shadow of somebody, it feels like nobody truly knows you.' 'I've always been the lackey because I had to. People don't see that the entire time I was backing up Jim, I wasn't doing it because I liked him, he was a total arsehole, but I was being paid real good money for it.'

'You've been accused of not caring about your results because you spent so long as backup for James, how would you describe that?' Still not showing much emotion, Kieran just relaxed in the seat more. 'It's easy to say I don't care, just because I'm not another superfan of duelling. I don't see this as a hobby, I see this as a job. It's a job I'm damn good at, and it makes me money. That's why I do it, and I wouldn't be here if I wasn't making that money.'

'Do you respect Radley?' 'Yes. We're both in similar situations, we've both spent years in the shadow, we're both just "the other one", and we're both here because it's a job we're damn good at. It doesn't change anything though - I'm still going to smash straight through him. To win, I'll take down anybody who steps in my way.' 'Thank you Kieran.' 'No problem.'

In the duelling zone

Radley entered first, wearing full leather and sunglasses. As he walked down, some fans politely applauded, which he did acknowledge, appreciating at least a portion of the crowd being on his side. While he marched towards the field, replays of some of his wins were shown, and he arrived, just in time to start flexing for the largely unimpressed audience, even if he did get a few whistles.

Kieran's music (which Rio had generously described as "sounding like two helicopters having an argument") started up, and he appeared in a surprisingly simple attire of a black vest with the Brave Bones logo on it and jogging trousers. He and Radley faced off, and it was apparent that a majority of the fans were going to spend the duel chanting for Rio instead of paying attention to the action. Of those who remained, most were in Radley's corner.

Baltic Championships Semi-Final 2: Radley LP:8000 vs. Kieran Byrne LP:8000

(Radley hand: U.A. Midfielder, U.A. Goalkeeper, U.A. Dreadnought Dunker, U.A. Rival Rebounder, Reinforcement of the Army)

Turn 1: Radley: 'I'm first, and I'll start with Reinforcement of the Army to search a Libero Spiker. Then I'll kick us off properly by summoning U.A. Libero Spiker (Atk:1800). I end my turn.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Magnet, Sekka's Light, Superheavy Samurai Soulbeads, Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter, Superheavy Samurai Battleball, Superheavy Samurai Big Waraji)

Kieran: 'I draw. I summon Superheavy Samurai Big Waraji because I have no Spells or Traps in my grave (Atk:800). And then I can summon Trumpeter the same way (Atk:300). Now I'll sync them, and Synchro summon Superheavy Samurai Stealth Ninja (Def.:2800). I'll go to my Battle phase' 'Before you do, I activate the effect of Libero Spiker. It returns itself to my hand by shuffling back Dreadnought Dunker into my deck, and summons out U.A. Rival Rebounder (Atk:2200).'

'Rival Rebounder's effect activates if it's Special summoned on your turn, and also brings out U.A. Goalkeeper (Def.:2800).' 'Well since I've not left my Main phase yet, and I've not Normal summoned, I'll Normal summon Superheavy Samurai Battleball (Atk:100). When this little mite is summoned, he immediately tunes to one of your monsters, but for my benefit. So I'll sync off him and the Level 6 Goalkeeper, to summon a 2nd Superheavy Samurai Stealth Ninja (Def.:2800).'

'Now the first Stealth Ninja will attack into your Rival Rebounder.' Stealth Ninja, formerly static, surged into life as it fired bursting fire out of its ball-headed staff, reducing Rival Rebounder into charred embers (Radley LP:8000-7400). 'And now you get to face down the other one alone.' A similar attack from the second Ninja left Radley already missing nearly half his Life points, as fans looked on in surprise (Radley LP:7400-4600). 'I end my turn.'

(Radley hand: U.A. Midfielder, U.A. Libero Spiker, U.A. Stadium)

Radley: 'I draw. I'm going to set up the U.A. Stadium.' As the stadium appeared around them, it was time for Radley to try and get something going, aware that if he didn't, his remaining time in the event would be very short. 'I'll summon U.A. Midfielder (Atk:1200), and then I'll use Stadium to search out a copy of U.A. Dreadnought Dunker. I'll then bounce Midfielder to summon Dreadnought Dunker (Atk:2500), triggering the effect of Stadium to give it a bonus 500 (Atk:3000).'

'Now destroy Stealth Ninja with Diving Devastation.' Dunker duly did its duty, smashing into the head of the Stealth Ninja (Kieran LP:8000-7800). 'I end my turn.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Magnet, Sekka's Light, Superheavy Samurai Soulbeads, Superheavy Samurai Blue Brawler)

Kieran: 'I'll just set a monster, and equip Stealth Ninja with Superheavy Samurai Soulbeads. These beads give it immunity to effect destruction once per turn. Now Stealth Ninja can halve its Defence until my turn ends, and in return it attacks directly.' Stealth Ninja unleashed its attack which flew over Radley's Dunker and straight at him (Radley LP:4600-3200). 'I'll end my turn.'

(Radley hand: U.A. Midfielder, U.A. Libero Spiker, U.A. Turnover Tactics)

Radley: 'My turn. I'll summon U.A. Midfielder (Atk:1200), which triggers my Stadium. This time I'll grab Goalkeeper, and then immediately summon it by having Midfielder drop back into my hand (Def.:2800, Dunker Atk:3000-3500). 'Dunker, destroy Stealth Ninja with DIving Devastation!' The Stealth Ninja stood little chance of surviving, as it was completely trashed by the Dunker (Kieran LP:7800-7100). 'I'll set one, over to you.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Magnet, Sekka's Light, Superheavy Samurai Swordsman)

Kieran: 'I draw. I summon Superheavy Samurai Magnet (Atk:900). When it's summoned, it can bring out another Superheavy Samurai from my hand. I summon Swordsman (Def.:1800, Magnet Def.:1900), and then I'll send it back to you.'

(Radley hand: U.A. Midfielder, U.A. Libero Spiker, U.A. Dreadnought Dunker)

Radley: 'Since it was so much fun before, I'll summon U.A. Midfielder (Atk:1200), triggering Stadium to grab U.A. Player Manager. Then I'll bounce Midfielder for a second Dreadnought Dunker (Atk:2500-3000, Dunker#1 Atk:3500-4000).' Radley then paused, knowing that Kieran was laying some form of honey trap. But without knowing what it was, he showed no fear. 'When in Rome, Dreadnought Dunker #1 attack Magnet.' The Dunker slammed its projectile through the Magnet, splitting it in half, but was then paralysed by a swipe from Swordsman (Kieran LP:7100-5000, Dunker#1 Atk:4000-0).

'What happened to my monster?' 'With Swordsman's effect, if your monster battles a Superheavy Samurai, it loses all its Attack and Defence afterwards.' 'Well I might as well take out your other monster.' The second Dunker dealt with the Swordsman, sacrificing its strength in the process (Kieran LP:5000-3900, Dunker Atk:3000-0). It was at this point that Radley decided on an extremely daring move to protect himself. 'I activate U.A. Turnover Tactics! This shuffles every monster from the field into the deck, and then I can summon monsters from my deck equal to the amount I shuffled back, as long as they all have different names. I summon U.A. Mighty Slugger, U.A. Blockbacker, and U.A. Playmaker (Atk:2300, Def.:2700, Atk:2600).'

'In addition, because I just summoned a U.A., I can also bring out Player Manager from my hand (Def.:2600).' The fans applauded this brave move, while Kieran looked on unperturbed. 'You could show some kind of… anything.' 'I'm not paid to take acting lessons.' 'This is what I was saying - you have no heart. That's why you're going to lose, you just don't care whether you win or lose, it's completely immaterial to you. I end my turn.'

(Kieran hand: Sekka's Light, Superheavy Samurai Battleball)

Kieran: 'I'll show you passion. I have no Spells or Traps in my graveyard, so can summon Superheavy Samurai Battleball (Atk:300). With its effect, I'll tune Level 2 Battleball to Level 7 Blockbacker, so I can summon Superheavy Samurai Beast Kyubi (Def.:2500). For every Special summoned monster you control, Kyubi gains 900 Defence points (Def.:2500-5200). Destroy Mighty Slugger.' Kyubi wasted no time in completely savaging the Slugger (Radley LP:3200-300). 'In my Main phase 2, I'll activate Sekka's Light.' 'Thought you didn't run Spells and Traps.' 'Mostly don't, this is an exception though. It draws me two cards, but in return, I can't activate any other Spells or Traps for the rest of the duel apart from Sekka's Light.'

'Now I can use the graveyard effect of Sekka's Light, banishing it to shuffle back Superheavy Samurai Soulshield Wall from my hand to my deck and draw a card.' Kieran's slight gamble paid the ultimate dividends, as he saw what he needed. 'I have no Spells or Traps in my grave, so can Special summon Trumpeter (Atk:400). Then I'll Normal summon Superheavy Samurai Soulbuster Gauntlet (Atk:0).'

Radley seemed particularly annoyed at this, and the reason was about to become apparent. 'Stop cheating!' 'Cheating?' 'You already Normal summoned this turn.' 'No I didn't.' 'Battleball?' 'I special summoned that, I made that clear.' The referee had to quickly make a ruling. 'Kieran stated that he needed no Spells or Traps in the grave to summon Battleball, if you were in doubt you should have asked at the time. Play on.' 'Happily, I'll tune Level 2 Trumpeter to Level 1 Soulbuster Gauntlet and Level 9 Beast Kyubi, to Synchro summon Superheavy Samurai Steam Train King (Def.:4800).'

'Been wanting to take this guy on.' 'Too bad you'll never get the chance. Steam Train King can banish every Spell/Trap from our graveyards, and you lose 200 Life points for each one.' Radley had no choice but to watch on as the fast and furious duel ended unexpectedly with 400 points of burn damage (Radley LP:300-0).

With Kieran also through to the final, Radley could only imagine what could have been. Sadly he didn't even get chance to do that, as Claude stormed out and got in his face, berating him for his defeat. After having his say, Claude turned to leave again, only to immediately find himself facing up to Kieran. The two giants standing at over thirteen feet tall combined stared silently as the crowd showed great interest in their confrontation. Before anything could come of it however, security came out and went to usher Kieran away, only for him to raise his hands and saunter off. Radley then headbutted Claude, which was responded to with a huge overhand slap, and they were split up by the already-present guards. Radley ended up being removed from the building.

As he was, he was taken straight past Blair and Jade, who were talking about their upcoming duel. 'I just can't believe we're actually getting to do this.' 'I can't believe I get to duel in a place like this. Listen, I'll do my best, but I'm sorry if I'm not great, kinda proper nervous.' 'Honestly, I won't be paying any attention to how you're duelling.' Jade then kissed her on the neck and whispered down her ear. 'I'll be too busy looking at your beautiful body, and wondering why I'm so lucky to have you. I'll be totally transfixed… entranced even.'

As she finished saying that, Blair spun around and with her arms around her lover's body, flung her up into the air, causing a surprised scream. 'I'm already a slave to your love, you're… almost hypnotically beautiful.' As they started to make out, a staffer from the venue gingerly walked up to them. 'Sorry to disturb, your duel is up.' Blair just looked up briefly. 'Five minutes?' 'No, right now.'

Hearing this, she got up, and straightened herself out. Quickly tying her Estonian-flag patterned bandanna, she looked over at her lover, who was tying her hair into a ponytail. 'We got unfinished business later.' 'First to five?' Blair just winked, and handed her another bandanna. 'Could you thank Brooke for these?' 'Sure.' They kissed, and made their way to the entranceway.

In the zone, Claude and Pez were already waiting when Blair and Jade ran out to some custom music, with Ally on her aunt's shoulders. 'Already in the duelling zone, Claude W. Duane and Pez de Fuego, The Regiment. And introducing their opponents, representing the Dynasty, and accompanied by the Alligator Ally Flannigan, they are the team of The Vespertine, Jade Goocheneyad, and the Pearl of the St. Clair, Blair Flannigan.'

As they were introduced, Blair dropped to her knees, allowing Ally to front roll off her shoulders, and Jade leapt over Blair, dropping down into the splits between them as their fireworks went off and the fans greeted them enthusiastically. As the more experienced of them made their way down, Jade grabbed a chair from nearby for Ally to sit on. She then joined Blair in the zone as they shared some choice words for Claude before beginning.

The Regiment (Col. Pez de Fuego and Lt. Claude W. Duane) LP:4000 vs. Dynasty (Blair Flannigan and Jade Goocheneyad) LP:4000

(Pez hand: Dragunity Darkspear, Dragunity Dux, Dragunity Couse, Dragunity Senatus, Dragunity Whirlwind)

Pez: 'Attention, the Regiment's turn to move.' Immediately Jade had an issue. 'Are you going to do this whole Roman act the entire time? Because I could really do with you not doing, you're going to drive me insane.' 'An act? How dare you, this is a life choice, this is who I am, who we are. And you will fall at my sword. Come to my side, Dragunity Senatus (Atk:1800). When Senatus appears, he can discard another Dragunity card to equip a Dragunity of the Tuner class from my deck to itself from within my deck.'

Jade then looked over at her partner. 'What's he on about?' 'He can equip a Dragunity Tuner from his deck to Senatus by discarding another Dragunity.' 'Cheers.' 'You're welcome, you're paying for the bedsheets tonight though.' 'As long as you're on there, I'd pay anything.' Pez then very rudely decided to continue his turn. 'I equip Dragunity Couse. Then the effect of Couse, he can summon himself from my equip zone, and it can be treated as Level 4 when I Synchro (Atk:1000).'

'Now Couse as a Level 4 will tune to Level 4 Dragunity Senatus. Appear before this battle with your lance crafted and ready to execute all who deny! I summon Dragunity Knight - Barcha (Atk:2000). And when it's summoned, Barcha can equip all Dragon-type Dragunities to itself, gaining 300 Attack for each (Atk:2000-2300). I end my turn with one face-down.'

(Jade hand: Terraforming, Abyss Actor - Superstar, Abyss Actor - Curtain Raiser, Abyss Actor - Leading Lady, Abyss Script - Opening Ceremony, Abyss Actor - Mellow Madonna)

Jade: 'I draw. I'll activate Terraforming, which searches out a Field Spell from my deck. I'll grab Abyss Playhouse - Fantastic Theatre. And now we're going to take a trip to the theatre.' As the card was activated, a large, opulent theatre sprang up behind her, with searching spotlights everywhere. 'I'll set a card in my backrow, and then set my Pendulum scale with Scale 7 Abyss Actor - Curtain Raiser.'

'When Curtain Raiser is in the Pendulum zone, I can summon it to my field as long as I control no other monsters (Atk:1100). And I can Normal summon Abyss Actor - Leading Lady to join it (Atk:1500). Now I'll Link off Curtain Raiser, to Link summon Link 1 - Abyss Actor - Hyper Director (Atk:800).' As the Director appeared, Claude looked over at Pez. 'If there's two things I can't stand, it's Lesbians and Theatre Kids.'

Hearing this, Blair didn't say anything, but turned around, revealing that the back of her jacket read "Bisexual And Dominant", a detail which Jade appreciated. 'Hey that's cute, when'd you get that done?' 'Lovely little alteration place just down the road from the hotel. Anyway, are you taking your turn?' 'Ok Little Miss Impatient.' 'You do realise I'm taller than you, right?' 'Yeah, by like, a quarter of an inch.' 'Your turn?' This suddenly refocused Jade. 'Oh yeah, thanks.'

'So where was I?' 'You summoned Hyper Director.' 'Thanks Jewel.' In reply, her girlfriend alluringly whispered 'Thank me later.' With this, Jade got back onto the job at hand. 'I'll set Abyss Actor - Superstar in my Spell and Trap zone, and activate the effect of Abyss Actor - Hyper Director. By restricting myself to only summoning Abyss Actors for the rest of the turn, I can summon Superstar from my Pendulum zone (Atk;2500). Then, I can replace him with another Abyss Actor. So I'll re-scale with Scale 1 Evil Heel.'

'Next, I'll Link off Hyper Director and Leading Lady! Make it work, Link 2, Abyss Actor - Super Producer (Atk:1800). And Super Producer has a super power. Once per turn, he can arrange for a card on my field to be replaced by an Actor going to my Pendulum zone. So Evil Heel's going to be leaving the cast now, and I'll be replacing it with Scale 9 Twinkle Little Star. Now I'll set the other Scale with Scale 0 Abyss Actor - Mellow Madonna, and use her effect to pay 1000 Life points (Dynasty LP:4000-3000), and search for Abyss Actor - Sassy Rookie.'

'Now I'm going to Pendulum summon! Play the part, Abyss Actor - Evil Heel, make an immediate impact, Abyss Actor - Sassy Rookie (Atk:3000, 1700). Now Evil Heel's effect will drop the Attack of your Dragunity by 1000 for every Actor on the stage.' Jade's mighty monster sucked power from the stage itself, before running over to Barcha, and snapping its back (Atk:2300-0). At this point, Jade had well over what she needed to win, but Blair signalled over to her.

'I get it, you want a turn as well.' It was at this moment that Jade sensed all was not as it seemed. 'I'm going to attack your Barcha with Sassy Rookie.' The Rookie came running in, and slugged Barcha with a vicious punch, destroying it (Regiment LP:4000-2300). 'Now Evil Heel, attack.' 'I activate my Dragunity Whirlwind. Because you control a monster and I do not any longer, I can summon a Winged Beast and Dragon Dragunity from my deck. Then as you have a monster called from the Extra deck, I can Synchro with them immediately. I summon Dragunity Angusticlavii and Dragunity Brandistock (Atk:2100, 600). Now I tune them both to Synchro summon Level 6 Dragunity Knight - Gae Bulg (Atk:2000).'

Unintimidated, Jade continued. 'Evil Heel, attack Gae Bulg.' And as it was predicted, Pez blundered straight into her plan. 'Gae Bulg, activate your effect during the Damage Step, banish Angusticlavii from the graveyard to steal its Attack power.' 'Yeah, I'm not letting that happen, not in my theatre. The effect of my Fantastic Theatre changes any Monster effect you activate to destroy a face-down Spell or Trap on my field.'

As Pez looked on in shock, Evil Heel started to visibly taunt Gae Bulg, which abandoned its Attack boost to attack Jade's face-down instead, destroying it. 'You really shouldn't have destroyed my face-down. When you destroy my face-down Abyss Script - Opening Ceremony, I can draw until my hand contains five cards.' Jade drew her hand, while Evil Heel ripped apart the Gae Bulg (Regiment LP:2300-1300). 'I'll set five and pass.'

(Claude hand: Super Conductor Tyranno, Petiterandon, Babycerasaurus, Double Evolution Pill, Power Filter, Polymerisation)

Claude: 'I draw.' Quickly seeing that he was lacking in options, a frustrated Claude set a monster and passed.

(Blair hand: Broken Bamboo Sword, Golden Bamboo Sword, Shaddoll Falco, Terminal World, Original Bamboo Sword, Five Card Salute)

Blair: 'Let's go. I'm not just going to beat you Claude, I'm making an example of you. I Normal summon Shaddoll Falco (Atk:600). Then I'll equip my Falco with a Broken Bamboo Sword. This gives it 0 Attack (Atk:600-600). Then I'll activate Golden Bamboo Sword. Because I control a different Bamboo Sword, Golden draws me two cards. Oh look, another Golden Bamboo Sword. So that's another two cards to me.'

'Now to change things up a bit, I'll activate Soul Absorption. Now whenever I activate a Spell card, we regain 500 Life points. Like when I equip Soul Absorbing Bamboo Sword to my Falco (Dynasty LP:3000-3500). And while I'm at it, I might just activate an Original Bamboo Sword as well (Dynasty LP:3500-4000), and I'll activate Terminal World.' 'What does that do?' 'It skips everybody's Main Phase 2. You don't need to worry about that yet though (Dynasty LP:4000-4500). What you do need to worry about is Five Card Salute refilling my hand (Dynasty LP:4500-5000).'

It was about now that Jade noticed how large Blair's deck was. 'Hey, how many cards are in your deck?' 'What - now?' 'No, when you started.' '59.' 'Nice. You got any more surprises?' 'Yeah, I'll activate a 3rd Golden Bamboo Sword to draw two (Dynasty LP:5000-5500). One of which was Dark World Dealings. I'll discard my Shaddoll Fusion to draw one (Dynasty LP:5500-6000).'

'Now I'll activate Reload to shuffle my hand into my deck and draw a new hand (Dynasty LP:6000-6500). Then I'll use Magical Stone Excavation to ditch two copies of Shaddoll Beast and add back Golden Bamboo Sword (Dynasty LP:6500-7000). Which I'll then use to draw two.' At this point, Claude was getting annoyed. 'You done yet?' 'Nope, I've got another Stone Excavation. Goodbye to Shaddoll Fusion and Shaddoll Zefranaga, hello to Golden Sword (Dynasty LP:7000-7500).'

'Golden Sword again, I'll draw two (Dynasty LP:7500-8000). Now I'll activate El Shaddoll Fusion.' 'Finally a real card.' 'I'll fuse together Shaddoll Beast and the Shaddoll Falco from my hand to summon Winda (Atk:2200, Dynasty LP:8000-8500). Now I'll activate Burning Bamboo Sword, and then pair it with Cursed Bamboo Sword. With Cursed, I can bounce back my Broken Sword to hand, and allow Falco to attack directly. Also because I activated a Bamboo Sword while Burning Sword is in my Spell and Trap zone, I can skip your next Main Phase 1 (Dynasty LP:8500-9500). Falco, attack directly.' The shadowy falcon flew in, and slashed away with its wings, doing minor damage (Regiment LP:1300-700).

'Now because I had my monster equipped with a Soul Devouring Bamboo Sword while it attacked directly, your next Draw Phase is skipped. I'll activate Broken Sword again (Dynasty LP:9500-10,000), and end my turn.' As she did, the crowd applauded, and Jade marvelled. 'That was awesome.' 'So to confirm Pez, if that is indeed your real name, you now skip your Draw Phase, your Main Phase 1, and your Main Phase 2. Which effectively skips your turn.' Pez then did nothing, as his turn went straight to the Standby phase, and then ended, with every other phase skipped.

(Jade hand: Abyss Actor - Fantasy Magic, Magic Hole Golem, Extra-Foolish Burial, Abyss Actor's Back Stage, Pendulum Area)

Jade: 'I draw. I'll activate Extra-Foolish Burial, to pay half of our Life points (Dynasty LP:10,000-5000), and send Lyrilusc - Independent Nightingale to the graveyard from my Extra deck.' 'Hey, why you using one of her cards?' 'Me and Rio grew up together idiot.' 'I thought you were born in Iran.' 'No, I just lived there. I was born in Twin Falls, exactly three weeks before Rio and Reginald. Anyway, I've got a duel to win.'

She then turned to Blair. 'You want to see a cool move yourself?' 'I mean you could wait until tonight, but I'd be up for a show now.' Jade giggled listening to her girlfriend. 'Not like that! I'm not undressing in front of a massive crowd! 'When did you get self-conscious?' 'I'm not!' 'I can see you blushing. Anyway, I suppose we should finish this off?' 'Yep. I'm going to contact fuse Abyss Actors Sassy Rookie and Mellow Madonna in order to Fusion summon Supreme King Dragon Starving Venom! (Atk:2800).'

'That… escalated quickly.' 'The effect of Supreme King Dragon Starving Venom activates, to copy the effect of Lyrilusc - Independent Nightingale in my graveyard. Now once per turn, I can deal you with 500 damage for each Level my monster has. Which is 8, meaning you're about to lose 4000 Life points! Maybe consider this a lesson in not bullying children!' As Blair and Ally watched on in wonder, Starving Venom released piercing electricity from its body orbs, ending the duel (Regiment LP:700-0).

After the duel finished, Blair and Jade hugged, and celebrated with the crowd, who were also very clearly feeling the love, especially when Blair started sharing cans of beer with them. Jade even started handing out hugs to some of the younger fans, while Ally joined in with the elation. As they did, cameras cut backstage to Radley and Kari talking in the car park. 'So we're decided?' 'Hassleberry's the choice, he's hungrier and we know he'll be in it for us.' 'Glad I talked you round Rads, it's totally the right call.'

Elsewhere in the hall

Astrid and Sakura were stood in one of the corridors, sharing memories. 'It still looks just like it did 15, 16 years, I'm stood here and I'm back to being so high holding my mother's hand.' 'Hey, I know this is a little bit random, but I never here you talking about your Dad?' 'Yeah, never knew him. I know he was Danish, and I know I was the result of an affair, but from what she tells me, he was gone before I was born. He probably doesn't even know I exist.' 'You ever want to meet him?' 'I suppose, but… I don't know, it's not something I think about often.'

Just then, something seemed to get Astrid's attention, and her eyes darted around the corridor. 'Everything alright?' 'I think we're being watched.' Before she could think more about it, they were ambushed by two individuals wearing tiki masks. They rushed through, knocking Sakura head-first into the wall as they did, stealing Astrid's precious Kransen and Sakura's expensive medical bag.

A few minutes later, Phil and Blair were just passing by. 'I swear if you duel like that all the time you're never losing a duel again.' 'Gee, didn't think it was that good.' 'That was honestly the single most complete performance I've seen from you yet. That is the kind of level that you have in there, we just need to learn to extract it, because Claude showed there what happens when you have raw talent but you can't use it effectively.'

Before Blair could press him for more insight, Astrid ran up to them, with a cut on the side of her face. 'Hey what happened to you?' 'We were ambushed, listen I'm fine but Sakura's been knocked out.' 'Ok, Phil if you can check on Sakura.' 'You got it.' He wandered over, and saw Sakura stood, holding her head. 'I… don't know where I am even.' 'Ice Hall in Estonia. Listen, Astrid explained, you were knocked out cold by a pair of bandits.' 'I literally don't remember at all.' 'Ok, well we'll get you to the medical area.' He helped her away, while the bandits quietly watched on at the destruction they had caused.

In Karlskoga

Maddy was sat with a cup of warm mulled wine, while Mille and her sister Alla sat with her. 'So you know Astrid?' 'Yes, she's my close friend. She wanted to get back in contact with you, but she didn't know how to, she didn't have any way to contact you.' 'And I wanted to get back in contact with her. Where does she live now?' 'She's living with me in England, she would have been here today but she's actually in hospital.'

This news shocked Astrid's mother. 'My baby, what happened?' 'It's not serious, I promise. She's just undergoing some minor surgery, she's got a chipped bone in her neck and just needed a little operation. She's going to be out of hospital tomorrow, but she won't be allowed to fly for a time. Sorry I introduced myself in broken words.' 'Nonsense, your grasp of the language is excellent. How long have you been learning?' 'A few months, Astrid helped teach me.' 'Never could help herself. She's always been proud of her culture.'

As they continued to spend time together, Maddy had a burning question. 'If you don't mind me asking, Astrid said that you had some… issues, before she left? And she left because she needed to get away from everything.' Mille just laughed. 'She would tell you that. She always was overprotective to a fault. The truth is, I haven't spoken to my daughter in over two years, because I made her move out.'

'Why though?' 'Because I had no control over my drinking. And I needed to get it under control, but I never could while my dear Astrid was preventing me. She would hide all the alcohol, she would pour the contents of the bottles, one time she even melted the bottles down.' Mille then picked up a large glass vase with distinctive melt marks and unusual patterns. 'This took her three days. All to stop me.'

'But I knew I could never have control while she did that. When she said she was turning professional in her duelling, I encouraged her to go and see the world. I'm afraid we didn't part on the best of terms, I pushed her out somewhat. Tell me, how did she go on?' Maddy then got her phone out, and showed Mille a picture of Astrid duelling against Kieran in Estonia. 'She's carrying on her Uncle Finn's legacy.' The venue immediately struck a chord.

'The Ice Hall? From Tallinn?' 'The one and same.' 'My, she has grown so much in this time.' 'You'd be surprised how much she's changed. I've only known her a few months and she's changed so much.' Maddy then reached into her pocket, and produced three tickets. 'There is a show in France that Astrid will be headlining in a couple of weeks, and I got three free tickets because I'm also competing there. I'd like you to have them.'

Mille nearly cried seeing the tickets. 'I finally get to see her again?' 'Yes. If you like, we can arrange a private aircraft to take you there. We had it booked for that show but we're going to be going by car from England.' 'It is incredibly generous, I can only offer thanks, I apologise I have nothing to offer in return.' 'Well there is one thing… could you maybe record a message for me to give to her?' 'Of course.'

'My dear Astrid, I'm sorry for how we last left things. I understand you wanted to regain contact, and I would love the opportunity to. I have missed you every day, but please understand, I knew you had to spread your wings. Until I let go, you couldn't soar to the sky, and now I have, you're achieving your dreams. Until the time I see you, my baby.' She then passed the phone to Maddy, who cut off the recording.

A couple of hours later, it was time for Maddy to leave. 'Thank you for having me.' 'Thank you so much for coming my dear. I'm sorry that you had to come all the way out here.' 'It's fine, I'm glad I did. And Astrid will be delighted to hear from you.' As Maddy left, Mille sat down and looked at a picture of a young Astrid laughing. 'My dear, I'm sorry I've lied to you all these years. Your family isn't really straightforward, I just hope that when the time is right, I'm able to explain it to you. Why your Uncle Finn isn't all he seems.'

At the train station

Maddy was waiting for a train back to the airport, when she was approached by Andre. 'So you got my email?' 'I did.' 'How is she?' 'You could go and ask her yourself, she's not that far from here.' 'Yeah, we've got… reasons why I'm not doing that. You bring that… other thing?' 'Oh yeah, give me a moment.' Maddy got her wallet out, and slid out an ID card. 'Welcome. You've made the right decision.' He just nodded. 'I don't doubt it.'

In Estonia

Ahead of the final duel of the Baltic Championships, Rio and Kieran were confronting each other in a dark room, both stood straight, both bullish. 'Rio Kastle.' 'Kieran Byrne.' 'I respect everything you have come through. You're a walking miracle, but playtime's over and you're out of your league. I will take great pleasure in teaching you the true feeling of being outmatched.' 'I'm a bulldog, I'm never backing down, I'm always nipping at your ankles. And I don't believe you're better than me. In fact you're the underdog here.'

'How so?' 'Because you're not facing a mere mortal. How could you even hope to defeat somebody who danced with the devil, revelled with the reaper, and told the tale? If I'm stronger than death, I'm sure as hell stronger than you.' 'I beat you already. I was better than everybody in the last stage.' 'Because I let you. Because I wasn't focused on the objective of victory. Things are different now - we're not playing for momentum, we're playing for keeps.'

'You don't seem to understand, I'm not some jumped up rich kid playing, I've fought for everything. I'm a bad man, and you're a meek little child. I'm real as they come, you just think you are.' 'I might appear mild mannered, but when I'm in that arena, I'm a cold blooded psychopath like you'd never believe. I have no will of self preservation, I have no fear of losing. I'm not scared of anything, especially not you.' A disembodied voice then came from somewhere. 'One reason why you will win. Kieran.'

He thought for a moment, and spoke. 'Because I'm the best duellist here. You might be plucky, you might be brave, but bravery means nothing when you're in a whole different league. You're going to be in a whole new school.' 'I'm going to win because everybody says I can't. I don't need you to believe in me, I don't need the officials to believe in me, all I need is the Ragna Nation to believe in me. Because the most dangerous threat is the one you ignored.'

Near the entrance gate

Blair and Jade were waiting, when Phil came running up, out of breath. 'Hey don't die on us.' 'Just run all the way across the arena, I'm guessing I'm on time.' 'You're not, but the good news is that neither Rio or Kieran are either.' Just then, Rio slowly walked up, head down, a look of complete focus in her eyes. Jade went to speak to her, only for Blair to block her, while Rio entered the entrance gate.

Jade then looked at Phil. 'Is she… entranced?' He just shook his head. 'Not seen her since the medical bay. We had a phone call for about 20 minutes, but very little of that was discussing tactics. She knows what she's doing.' 'You sound… weirdly confident.' He smiled in response to this. 'I have complete faith in Rio.' 'You think she starts as favourite?' 'It's a big final - favourites don't matter. All that matters is playing the cards in front of you.'

In the arena

Rio entered first, to a rapturous response, but she kept her head down the entire way,, remaining completely focused on the job at hand. Kieran then followed, clearly not being fazed by the partisan crowd. In the zone, the two of them squared up, as cameras flashed, and eventually the referee came between them. 'Kieran won the coin toss backstage. Do you want to go first or second?' 'I'll go second.'

Baltic Championship Final: Kieran Byrne LP:8000 vs. Rio Kastle LP:8000

(Rio hand: Lyrilusc - Bird Sanctuary, Slower Swallow, Lyrilusc - Beryl Canary, Panic Shuffle, Stoic Challenge)

Turn 1: Rio: 'Let's see… I'm going to Normal summon Slower Swallow (Atk:100). Then I'm using it's effect, tributing it so I can draw two cards at my next Standby phase. I end my turn setting one.'

Backstage, Phil was stood, shaking his head. 'What a time to brick. What a f**king time to brick.' Nervously, Jade looked at him. 'Two draws help right?' 'Turquoise plus either Sapphire or Beryl probably means full combo, but that's not even a 25% chance. And that's presuming he doesn't have any interaction.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Soulhorns, Superheavy Samurai Blue Brawler, Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter, Superheavy Samurai Magnet, Machine Duplication, Superheavy Samurai Soulbreaker Armor)

Kieran: 'I'm summoning Superheavy Samurai Magnet (Atk:900). With the effect of Magnet, I can summon a Level 4 or below Superheavy Samurai from my hand, and then change Magnet's battle position. I'll summon Superheavy Samurai Blue Brawler (Def.:2000, Magnet Def.:1900). Now I'll summon Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter through its effect because there's no Spells or Traps in my grave (Atk:300). And I can activate Machine Duplication to get two more Blue Brawlers (Def.:2000)x2.'

'Now Level 2 Trumpeter, tune to Level 4 Magnet and Level 4 Blue Brawler. I told you that you were out of your league, and you're just proving it. I Synchro summon Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo (Def:3800). And I'll equip it with the Superheavy Samurai Soulhorns, giving it a second attack. Now roll in!' Kieran was expecting this attack to uncover some sort of interaction from Rio, but instead she took the two massive hits from Kieran's monster, almost wiping her out just 69 seconds in (Rio LP:8000-400). 'Probably Phantom Feathers then. I'll end my turn.' Despite the damage, Rio still looked completely calm and focused, which seemed to be impressing her opponent. 'You're not backing down.'

(Rio hand: Lyrilusc - Bird Sanctuary, Lyrilusc - Beryl Canary, Stoic Challenge, Magical Mallet, Soul Taker)

Rio: 'I draw, and I draw. I'll activate Magical Mallet. This shuffles back any number of cards from my hand into my deck, and then draws an equal amount of cards. I'll shuffle back these three, and redraw.' There was a moment of tension, before Rio continued her turn. 'Because my field is empty, I can Special summon Lyrilusc - Turquoise Warbler from my hand (Atk:100). With its effect, I can summon a Lyrilusc from my hand or graveyard. I choose Lyrilusc - Celestine Wagtail (Atk:200). Wagtail then searches out a Lyrilusc Spell or Trap, and I'm getting Bird Call.'

'That probably means you've kept the Sanctuary in your hand?' 'Maybe. Or maybe I'm overlaying my two monsters to Xyz summon Lyrilusc - Ensemblue Robin (Atk:1000). Next I'll activate Bird Call, to add Sapphire Swallow to my hand. Then with the second effect of Bird Call, I can summon Lyrilusc - Cobalt Sparrow (Atk:100). And it will add Beryl Canary to my hand. Then I can use Sapphire Swallow to summon itself and Beryl (Atk:0,100).'

'Now I'll overlay the three Level 1 monsters to Xyz summon Lyrilusc - Recital Starling (Atk:0-200). When Recital is summoned, I can use its effect to give Ensemblue 300 Attack points for each material my Starling has.' The Staling started to sing, which caused Ensemblue to grin and swoop around as its Attack was upgraded (Atk:1000-1900). Now I'll activate Bird Sanctuary, to attach Recital to Ensemblue, along with all her materials (Atk:1900-4100, Materials:8). And with the other effect of Sanctuary, I draw another card.'

'Ensemblue, attack Susanowo.' The blue Robin soared around, before charging down Susanowo and cleaving through its sword, before taking its head off as well. 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Soulbreaker Armor, Superheavy Samurai Magnet)

Kieran: 'I draw. I'll just pass straight back to you.'

(Rio hand: Flash Fusion)

Rio: 'I draw.' Rio was just about to attack, when it occurred to her that it was pointless. 'And of course Blue Brawler can't be destroyed by battle. I'll just pass myself.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Soulbreaker Armor, Superheavy Samurai Magnet, Superheavy Samurai Soulbang Cannon)

Kieran: 'My turn. I'll summon Superheavy Samurai Magnet (Def.:1900). With its effect, I'll summon Superheavy Samurai Soulbang Cannon (Def.:1000), and you're going to negate its summon.' A surprising response then came from 3 feet away. 'No I'm not. You can have your stupid Cannon.' 'Fine, I'll overlay Cannon and one of my Blue Brawlers to summon Heavy Armored Train Ironwolf (Atk:2200).'

'Yep, and now I'm going to use Robin (Materials:8-7, Atk:4200-3700).' 'I end my turn.'

(Rio hand: Flash Fusion, Coffin Seller)

Rio: 'I draw. I'll set this face-down and pass.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Soulbreaker Armor, Sekka's Light)

Kieran: 'I'll activate Sekka's Light, to draw two cards, and stop myself activating any Spells or Traps other than Sekka's Light for the rest of the duel. Then I'll banish it from my graveyard to shuffle Soulbreaker Armor back into my deck and draw another card. Next I'll Special summon Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter (Atk:300).' Again, Rio wasn't interested in reacting, leaving Kieran in a tough position. 'I'll tribute Trumpeter to summon Superheavy Samurai Big Benkei (Def.:3500). Then I'll equip Big Benkei with Superheavy Samurai Soulbreaker Armor. It loses 500 Defence (Def.:3000), but can't be destroyed in battle. I end my turn.'

(Rio hand: Coffin Seller, Lyrilusc - Sapphire Swallow)

Rio: 'I draw. I'll activate the effect of Bird Sanctuary to draw a card, because I control an Xyz monster with at least three materials. I'll set another two cards and pass my turn.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Soulpeacemaker)

Kieran: 'I draw. I'll equip Blue Brawler with Superheavy Samurai Soulpeacemaker. Now through it's equip card, Blue Brawler can be tributed, and I can summon Superheavy Samurai Swordsman (Def.:1000).' As Swordsman arrived, Kieran saw his Life points start to drop (Kieran LP:8000-7700). 'The moment you tributed your Brawler, I activated Coffin Seller. Now whenever a monster of yours goes to the graveyard, I can deal you with 300 damage.' 'Yeah, big deal. Big Benkei, attack Ensemblue Robin.' The mighty Samurai swung in with a two pronged weapon and rocket boots, but wasn't strong enough (Kieran LP:7700-6900).

'After battle, Swordsman reduces the Attack of your Robin to 0 (Atk:3800-0). And because of Big Benkei's ability, Swordsman can attack your monster. Nice try though.' 'Sorry to ruin the suspense, but I activate Metaverse, which allows me to activate Chicken Game directly from my deck.' A large tiki totem appeared just in time for Rio to survive (Rio LP:400). 'Chicken Game stops all damage to whoever has the fewest Life points.' 'Like I care, I got rid of your monster. I end my turn.'

Backstage, Phil could only break into a slight smile. 'You clever girl.' 'Would you have ever thought of that?' Blair asked, also smiling nervously. 'Never.' he replied with complete sincerity. 'That was a hell of a play. She's still in there.'

(Rio hand: Lyrilusc - Sapphire Swallow, Lyrilusc - Beryl Canary, Lyrilusc - Cobalt Sparrow)

Rio: 'I draw. I'll summon Lyrilusc - Beryl Canary through its own ability by reviving Turquoise Warbler (Atk:100, 100). Then I'll use Sapphire Swallow to summon itself and Cobalt Sparrow (Sapphire Atk:0, Cobalt Atk:100). Cobalt gets me another search, and I think I'll get myself the 3rd Beryl. Now I'll overlay my four monsters to build the overlay network, and Xyz summon Lyrilusc - Assembled Nightingale (Atk:1000).'

'Nightingale, attack directly four times.' Rio's monster flew high into the air, before swinging back around and firing its feathers down in a rain of pain (Kieran LP:6900-2900). 'In my Main phase 2, I'll upgrade Assembled Nightingale to Xyz summon Downerd Magician (Atk:2100). Then I'll upgrade it to Divine Arsenal AA Zeus - Sky Thunder (Def.:3000, Materials:6). By using Zeus' effect, I can detach two materials (Materials:6-4), and send every other card on the field to the graveyard.'

The gigantic mecha on Rio's field rose into the air, and created a storm of lightning, which completely wrecked the entire field, and lead to Coffin Seller dealing more damage (Kieran LP:2900-2300). 'I end my turn.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Helper)

Kieran: 'I draw. I'll set a monster, then I'll pass to you.'

(Rio hand: Xyz Reborn)

Rio: 'My turn. I'll use the effect of Bird Sanctuary to draw another card, then I'll use Zeus' effect again.' Zeus once again cleared the field, and Kieran was down to 2000 points as the crowd were cheering their favourite on (Kieran LP:2300-2000). 'Now I'll switch Zeus to Attack mode (Atk:3000), and attack directly.' 'I'll use the effect of the Superheavy Samurai Helper you just sent to my graveyard, to banish it and revive Superheavy Samurai Big Benkei (Def.:3500).'

Rio could have used the effect of Zeus at this point, but with Soulbang Cannon in the graveyard, she knew that doing so would spell doom. 'I'll cancel my attack, and end my turn.'

(Kieran hand: Sekka's Light)

Kieran: 'I draw. I'll activate Sekka's Light, to draw into another two cards.' Just when he needed it, Kieran drew just what he was hoping for. 'I'll go to my Battle phase, and attack Zeus with Big Benkei.' 'Before your Battle phase begins, I'll use Zeus (Materials:2-0, Kieran LP:2000-1700). 'Fine, I'll set a monster and pass.'

(Rio hand: Lyrilusc - Beryl Canary, Xyz Reborn, Where Arf Thou?, Lyrilusc - Turquoise Warbler)

Rio: 'I draw. I'll attack with Zeus.' This proved to be an error, as she was attacking Superheavy Samurai Drum (Def.:300). 'When my Drum is destroyed, I can use it to revive Superheavy Samurai Big Benkei (Def.:3500).' Rio's shoulders briefly dropped hearing this, knowing that she didn't have any more ways to dodge attacks. Until she looked at her field, and saw one last option. 'I mean I've got nothing to lose.'

She then stood up straight. 'I'll activate Where Arf Thou. This allows me to add Lyrilusc - Sapphire Swallow to my hand. Then I'll activate the effect of Beryl Canary to summon itself and Turquoise Warbler from my graveyard (Atk:0, 100). Now I can use the effect of the Sapphire Swallow in my hand to summon itself and another Warbler (Atk:0, 100). Now I'll overlay Beryl and two Warblers to Xyz summon Assembled Nightingale (Atk:600).' 'That doesn't help when you're not going to get another attack.' The look in her eyes suggested she wasn't done though. 'I hope this works… I activate Flash Fusion!'

Backstage

As Rio activated Flash Fusion, Phil screamed in delight. 'Do it! Achieve your destiny!'

''I'm going to fuse together Assembled Nightingale and Beryl Canary in order to summon the destructive force that is Lyrilusc - Independent Nightingale. She starts out weak (Level:1, Atk:1000), but for each Xyz material my Assembled Nightingale had, she gains 500 Attack and one Level (Atk:1000-2500, Level:1-4). Now for her effect, I can deal you with 500 damage for each Level she has. Red Sky Slay!' Rio's monster flew into the sky, and her eyes lit the sky up red, before blood red feathers came raining down from above, completing the monumental comeback (Kieran LP:1700-0).

As the dust settled, Rio stood up, nervously looked at the scoreboard, and her music hit to an absolute wall of cheering and hollering. Seeing the result, she dropped to her knees, hands over her mouth, as the rest of the club rushed down to celebrate with her. 'Your winner, the Baltic Champion, and gaining seeded entry into the WDC World Championship - Cold Blooded Rio Kastle!'

As the announcement was made, Blair picked her up onto her shoulders and started parading her tag partner around, while Phil pointed at her and shouted 'There's your future!' over and over again. This only ended when Geoff Maltby came out to take the post-duel interview. Seeing this, she signalled for Blair to gently drop her back onto the ground.

'Rio Kastle, Baltic Champion.' 'Pretty crazy ain't it?' 'It's much deserved, you've been so good throughout all of this. You topped the standings going into the Super 8s, you survived a rough patch at the start of the Super 8s, and then you came into the Last 4, survived a hellish duel against Jaden, who is one of the best duellists we've ever seen in this or any organisation, and now beating Kieran how you did. How must you be feeling?'

Rio could barely hold back tears as she smiled. 'Elated. There's just no feeling like this. I really just… can't describe it right now, like my head's still in a thousand different places.' 'When you entered the Baltic Championships, did you have any clue you might win?' 'Honestly I wanted to win one duel, like I had no confidence in myself.' Geoff then momentarily turned his attention to Blair, who had tears in her eyes as well.

'Blair, we know how close you and Rio are, is there anything you want to say to her?' She smiled, and spoke directly to Rio through the mic. 'Just that she's the best.' She then turned to the electric crowd, and delivered an impassioned speech. 'Take a good look at your Baltic Champion!' She then got her phone out, and beckoned one of the cameras over to see Rio in a hospital bed days after being shot.

'Take a good look. This was four months ago! In four months she has gone from doctors telling us she wasn't even going to make it through the night, to her being stood here as Baltic Champion, taking on all comers. Because she is the toughest bitch I have ever met. You'll be seeing her in the headlines in the morning, you'll be seeing her at the World Championships, and for those who don't like her, you'll be seeing her IN YOUR NIGHTMARES!' As Blair then lead them in a chant of Ragna Nation, Geoff continued his interview.

'I mean you heard that, can you express what it means to hear that?' 'I'll give it a go. Blair, I'd like you to hear this.' The crowd quietened down, and Rio said her peace. 'Blair makes me want to get better every day. She has had to come through so much shit herself but you wouldn't know because she never mentions most of it, because she'll just tell you what's up with me instead. She's always so selfless, and she's my best friend, and I literally couldn't be happier that she's dating someone I've known almost my entire life.'

'And I also want to talk about Phil, the greatest manager ever.' 'Floor's yours.' 'I don't think people realise what he has put into us, what he's invested. I just want to say to him, all the sleepless nights, all the hundreds of thousands of pounds of your own money that you put into the arena which was supposed to just be for us three and Maddy originally, all the times you sat down with me in the small hours of the morning in hotels all around the world talking me through deck building tips, it was all worth it. I wouldn't be here without you, you've made me the competitor that I am, and I cannot thank you enough, because you're making come true things I couldn't even have dreamt of doing. And you'll never get enough credit, but I want to give you just a fraction of what you deserve.'

'I also just want to thank the fans who have been here throughout the whole few days, you guys have supported me totally like nobody I've ever known, and I want you to know that I really love you guys.' As the crowd ramped up once more, the trophy was brought out, in shimmering crystal, shaped to look like the Ice Hall itself. 'Well all that's left to say is give it up for your Baltic Champion - Rio Kastle!' As Rio pushed her bangs out of the way of her face, she took the trophy, and lifted it high into the air as the club celebrated with her. These celebrations continued long into the night, with autographs being signed and pictures being taken, as it was Rio's night. The most unlikely of victories, and the headlines the next morning read "Imede päev Tallinnas" (Miracle Day in Tallinn). But there was an undercurrent of tension still, as everyone knew that the trial was coming up soon. The Trial of the Century.

HM Prison Manchester (Strangeways)

James was at in the same cell he had since being remanded in custody several weeks before, when a prison guard unlocked his cell. 'You want something?' The guard, grizzled and in his 60s, responded with a strong Bury accent. 'You've got a visitor.' This was a surprise for James, who hadn't been visited by anyone aside from his legal counsel since being remanded. So he slowly got up, and was lead to the visitor's area. Sat waiting for him, was Rob Atkinson, who appeared to have a concealed envelope with him.

Sitting down, he was confused. 'What do you want?' 'I have a plan. It gets you out of here, it puts Phil in here, and we both get Hannah.' 'What do you mean "we both" get her?' Rob then leant in and whispered in hushed tones. 'All you want her for is the slavery and sex right? So she lives with me doing what I want, and when you want her we come to a deal on that. Even if it's for some time every day. We get everything we want.' Interested, James leant in himself. 'I'm listening…'

Next Time: It's Judgement Day for James, in Chapter IL: Trial of the Century, Part 1