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.

53. Renegades:Reloaded

Renegades: A New Dawn

Chapter LIII: Renegades: Reloaded

The next morning, Maddy was up early, having a meeting with her Dad about the issues from the previous day. 'I need to know where we stand with this "Dynasty". Are you with us or not?' 'We are all with you, I have made that clear to all of them. Freja's programming is very powerful, but because of that it's also very rigid, and we didn't factor in the level of fanatical devotion she already had. I'm hoping to get her to team with Belle for a while to refocus, but I think having she and Lydia team up at local events is a very good idea, because it's the only way outside of locking them in a room together that anything is going to get sorted. But yes, we're all as committed to this as you are.'

'Well I'm going to be opening the show up today with an address, so I want to know if your group are in or not.' His reply was blunt. 'They're Renegades first, anything else second. In fact I intend on being out there with all of you, purely to show solidarity. If you'll allow, of course.' 'Seriously? You know you've got as much free reign as anybody else.' 'If this is a rebirth, let it be a rebirth with no questions. Just because I no longer have a role on the revolution doesn't mean I can't still support the cause. I still believe in this as much as I ever have, and I believe in you more than I ever have as a leader.'

An hour later, everyone else had met up with Maddy in the hotel lobby. 'We're opening the show with an address. Because yesterday was the start of the rebirth of the Renegades. If anybody tries to prevent us from having our time, you're more than welcome to kick their heads in. Oh, and one more thing.' She then pointed out Dakota and Denny, who were stood slightly sheepishly nearby. 'Now I know that a lot of you have personal items which were stolen by these two before they joined us. I have spoken to them, and while they don't have the items on them now, we have agreed that they will give everything back when we're back in England. If they don't, then I have their admission and can get them arrested. You will have everything back in a matter of days. Any questions?'

Immediately Astrid stepped up to her. 'So you trust these guys? They literally stole from us.' There was a somewhat surprising reply. 'I don't trust them right now, not at all. But they impressed me and I decided they deserved an opportunity. By all means don't trust them, they should earn that trust. But I expect everyone to give them the chance to earn trust. Understood?' Everyone nodded, aware that disagreeing with Maddy would be tantamount to suicide with her new attitude. 'Good. Now let's do what we do.'

The club then began the walk to the stadium, with Maddy leading the way, Dakota and Denny right behind her. As they walked through the crowds, the fans reached out, embracing their chosen anti-heroes, while the press gang all wanted answers from her. All Maddy would say though is 'We give answers when we choose.' There were to be no other answers, aside from Rio declaring 'The Renegades are better than ever.' Even when they entered the Dome, it didn't end as Blair casually pushed Bolton out of the way, while declaring 'Out of my way', and laughing.

They made a beeline for the entranceway, walking straight through anybody who was in their way. As they approached the gate, two staff members blocked the gate. 'Sorry, we're running a tight ship here, and we don't have time for you all to go out there. There's no scheduled time for you, so you ain't going out there.' Maddy looked at them for a moment, sneered 'Tough', and stepped to the side, just in time for the staff to get a glimpse of Astrid kicking them both in the face. Maddy then put her hood up, and walked out.

In the arena, the stage was just being set up for the second day, when for the first time in her professional career, Maddy's new music hit, and the Renegades' fearless leader walked out, hood up, followed by the rest of the club, all wearing their colours proudly, until Freja and Lydia brought up the rear, reluctantly walking together after the previous day's events. In the centre of the Dome, Astrid walked over to Maddy, and pulled her hood down, revealing her dressed in all purple gear, lit up only by her red and black club jacket. And because no microphone was forthcoming, she simply slid her hand into her jacket's front pocket, and picked a lapel mic out, quickly attaching it to said outerwear.

''For weeks, months even, people wanted to know "what happened to Maddy", "is Maddy ok", and most of all, "does Maddy's absence mean the Renegades are dead?". The answer is no by the way, no - Maddy wasn't ok. Because Maddy survived life-threatening peritonitis, I had to have a kidney transplant, I NEARLY DIED! And what do I get in return? Nothing.' Maddy then smiled to herself, but it wasn't out of joy, rather of rage. 'Actually no, that's a lie. That's a lie, because you see, I got LESS THAN NOTHING! They tried to strip me of my title, but they didn't even have the rocks to tell me. Instead they send a snotty letter to me pregnant Mam, telling her they were gonna send some stooge round to take my title. It's a pity none of 'em tried to do that actually, I could have done with the workout.'

'Oh, and on the subject of them, I heard them, talkin', plottin', going on about how they want to use me as the advertisement for this company but for one little thing, one little inconvenience. They want to split me away from "those circus freaks". Well guess what? I heard you loud and clear, I know your wishes. But I'm not about to be some billboard for you. I made my decision and I chose the freaks. Because these circus freaks, this bunch of misfit toys, they are my family! And they chose me, of everybody they chose ME, to be the head of this revolution. So I'm gonna look after them and lead by example. Cause the biggest freak of them all is me!

As the crowd cheered her on rapturously, she raised her voice a bit more, her anger being translated into boundless energy. 'So come on, send whoever you want after me. Send Kalin, send Caprice, hell, send Rhydian when he's done rotting in the cell I put him in! Because I'm a fighting champion and I will fight anybody, and I mean anybody. We're the Renegades, and we have a mission - destroy the rotting core of the WDC, and make it a place for people who don't fit in. People like us. Misfit toys. Undesirables. Freaks. Renegades or die.' She then looked around, and every member of the club had a focused look, as if to agree with her sentiment. 'If you're with us, raise your Red Right Hand.' As she declared this, every Renegade in attendance did so, along with around two thirds of the crowd, as her music played once more.

They then returned backstage, to see the card shaping up for the day. 'Looks like you're up first 'trid.' 'Could they not have let me main event just one day?' she complained, very clearly disappointed at the scheduling. 'Just go out there and duel like it's the main event, to a lot of people you are.' 'Thanks. I guess I should get my deck ready?' 'I thought you and Blair were doing that last night?' 'We were, but we were too busy reminiscing to get it finished. I know what I'm putting in anyway.'

At the start of the show proper, Maddy's speech was shown, and then the graphic for Astrid and Kalin's 5th duel was shown. Before the duel, a video package played highlighting the previous four duels, curiously skipping over the cheap tactics which Kalin had employed. Certain sections even appeared to be crudely manipulating the order of events to make Astrid appear entitled and bitter. There was then another video, this time a 101 on Highlander format, narrated by Blair.

'Highlander Format is an alternate format to Standard Rules. In this format, players must construct decks and then compete, while adhering to two key deck building rules. 1. A deck must consist of exactly sixty cards. More or less than this amount is strictly forbidden. 2. A deck may only have one of any card name in it. In cases where multiple differently named cards would share a name, these may be allowed as separate cards, so long as they do not share said name in the deck. So Cyber Dragon and Cyber Dragon Drei would be allowed as separate cards, however Harpie Lady and Harpie Lady #1 would not be, as they are treated as the same name in the deck.'

'Now there are a lot of strategies which a duellist can use in a duel of Highlander format. One of the most popular is Monster Mash, a deck which utilises a very large monster count to try and take advantage of the opponent being unable to run a large amount of consistency-boosting cards by constantly putting them under a good deal of offensive pressure with threats which need answering. This in turn can take many forms, such as Monster Grass, which uses That Grass Looks Greener to mill many monsters that have strong effects in the graveyard, and Skill Drain Beatdown, which uses cards like Skill Drain coupled with extremely high Attack monsters with significant drawbacks such as Beast King Barbaros and Goblin Attack Force, to put huge monsters on board every turn and remove their negative effects.'

'Another popular strategy for Highlander is Deep Draw. This eschews a large monster count to replace it with a large volume of cards which draw cards, and is often played in strategies which rely on finding specific cards for a win condition, such as Exodia the Forbidden One, or Exchange of the Spirit. Overall, if you're looking for a unique and varied format that tests your deck building knowledge to its limits, 60 card Highlander is the perfect format for you. If you want to see more tutorials and top Highlander format duels, visit .org and sign up for free for six months.'

The commentators seemed somewhat confused by this, with Blair having absolutely not having been given permission to plug the arena's website. But before they could apologise for it, Blair's music hit, and she walked out, going straight up to the commentary area, as she had agreed to do guest commentary on the Highlander duel, wearing her Renegades jacket and a bright orange bandanna. As she took her seat, she was questioned about her video package. 'What was all of that about?' 'All of what?' 'What you said in that video package.' 'What - that you can get six months of free content at .org?' 'Yes.'

'I'm just trying to get a message across to people. That website is the best place to get premium Highlander content, and I hear that there's a chick from Michigan who is really talented at it as well.' As she continued to talk about the website, the first duel opened with Astrid appearing, receiving a huge response from the crowd. 'The following duel is Duel 5 in the Seven Stars Series, and is a 60 card Highlander duel, with a 60 minute time limit. Introducing first, from Alta, Norway, the Arctic Fox - Astrid Hofferson.'

The Norwegian walked down, making the new Renegades salute as she did. 'Astrid Hofferson is someone who you know very well Blair, and not just from the Renegades.' 'No, we've duelled loads of times, basically we've done that everywhere. She's attacking as all hell, incredibly ambitious, fiery, and her Nordic cards are more dangerous than ever because of the way she uses them, and the Valkyries only make her an even tougher opponent. She literally can be in a grinder for 20 turns, and then smack you with a massive hit out of nowhere. Also, did you know that Astrid is actually a really good singer?'

'I don't see what that has to do with her duelling skills, but no, I don't think we did know that.' 'Oh it's got nothing to do with her duelling, I just wanted to embarrass her on national television. I just hope she doesn't watch this back. If she does, erm… love ya 'trid?' In the zone, Astrid couldn't have been more oblivious to Blair's cheek on commentary, as she was full of confidence despite the previous day's loss. She just crouched down, and gestured to the opposite entranceway, daring Kalin to come out.

So the champion duly obliged, going for an all grey look, complete with a reed in his mouth for dramatic effect. 'Introducing her opponent, from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, he is the WDC Champion - the Last Vanguard, Kalin Kessler.' Kalin slowly made his way down, not taking his gaze off his opponent once, having learned the hard way in their previous duel just what she was capable of. In the zone, he gave her a nod of respect, while Blair talked about her old friend.

'Kalin Kessler is someone I've personally known for quite a long time, and while he never really changes, that's because there is something about Kalin's style which is actually just completely timeless. He never rushes any of his plays, he doesn't normally get bogged down in slanging matches, and he's one of the masters at playing the opponent not the situation. His Infernity cards, like Astrid's deck, is maybe a little old-fashioned, but it's capable of some absolutely disgusting plays. It's like a vicious circle, it keeps coming back to bite you over and over again, even if I'm lucky enough to have never been bitten by one.'

This confused her fellow commentators. 'Bitten by what?' She said the answer as if it was supposed to be glaringly obvious. 'A circle? Like, I've seen some pretty nasty circles in my time, I saw one with Rhydian's name in it once, and I've still not recovered from the PTSD of it, but I've never been bitten by a circle. Then again, there's a first time for everything, I mean I'd never duelled in the Tokyo Dome before yesterday, and then I beat the world's worst conquistador and Astrid all in the space of about 20 minutes.'

'Is Kalin familiar with Highlander?' 'Serious question? Kalin's done everything there is to do, he's duelled in Highlander format probably upwards of 50 times, and that's just the ones I'm aware of. He's the old master at adapting to any format, his deck won't have as high a ceiling in this format, but that doesn't mean that he's any less dangerous. He'll have taken the opportunity to include tech choices for every possible combination of plays Astrid has. It's just a question of whether she can adapt around them.' While Blair had been rabbiting on about circles and duelling in Japan, Kalin had laid his belt on the ground, and the duel was about to begin, as the big screens mysteriously all rebooted at the same time, causing the commentary team to look accusingly at Blair. 'What?' 'This the responsibility of the Renegades?' 'You've been watching way too much of The Matrix. I don't even understand my email account, never mind this.'

Seven Stars Series Duel 5: 60 Card Highlander: Astrid Hofferson [2] LP:8000 vs. [c] Kalin Kessler [2] LP:8000

(Astrid hand: Celestial Transformation, Cards from the Sky, Solemn Warning, Guldfaxe of the Nordic Beasts, The Golden Apples)

Astrid: 'I'll opt to go first. I'll summon Guldfaxe of the Nordic Beast (Atk:1600), and end my turn with one face-down.'

(Kalin hand: Infernity General, Tour Guide from the Underworld, Sinister Yorishiro, Archfiend Emperor, the First Lord of Horror, Fiend Griefing, Reload)

Kalin: 'I draw. I'll activate Reload, to send three cards back into my deck from my hand, and draw the same amount back. Then I'll summon out Archfiend Emperor, the First Lord of Horror, but his Attack points are reduced and he's destroyed at the end of the turn (Atk:2000).' 'Well, no better time to Solemn Warning (Astrid LP:8000-6000).' With his monster vanishing instantly, Kalin shook his head in annoyance. 'I'll set two and pass.'

(Astrid hand: Celestial Transformation, Cards from the Sky, The Golden Apples, Valkyrie Vierte)

Astrid: 'I draw. I'll activate Cards from the Sky, to banish Valkyrie Vierte and draw two cards, but I have to forego attacking this turn. Then I'll activate Wave Motion Cannon, and end my turn with a face-down.'

(Kalin hand: Tour Guide from the Underworld, Snipe Hunter, Infernity Wildcat)

Kalin: 'I draw. I'll summon Tour Guide from the Underworld (Atk:1000), and use its effect to summon Infernity Wildcat (Atk:1400). Now I'll activate my Set card Infernity Paranoia, to tribute Tour Guide and replace it with Infernity Conjurer from my deck (Atk:1200). Now I'll tune Level 3 Wildcat to Level 3 Conjurer, so I can summon Infernity Doom Archfiend (Atk:2000). When it's summoned, I can use its effect to negate any card on your field. I'll choose Wave Motion Cannon, so now it's sitting uselessly on your field.' 'I think I'll get over it honestly.'

'Well will you be able to get over Doom Archfiend? Because it's coming straight for your goat.' This comment left Astrid unenthused, but not for the expected reason. 'I told you before, Gullfaxi is the horse, Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjostr are the goats. I know it's using up your entire brain power just to try and beat me, but please try to keep up.' 'Look, I don't care about your stupid mythology bullcrap, ok? I just want to win, I don't want another hour long lecture.' In the meantime, Guldfaxe had been zapped to death by the Doom Archfiend, taking a handful of Astrid's points with it (Astrid LP:6000-5600). 'I'll end my turn.'

(Astrid hand: Celestial Transformation, The Golden Apples, Valkyrie Dritte)

Astrid: 'I draw. I activate Celestial Transformation, to summon Valkyrie Dritte (Atk:1000).' 'I'll bet you drew that Transformation for turn didn't you?' Knowing the importance of keeping her cards close to her chest, Astrid opted to just smile. 'That would be telling. Dritte's effect searches out another Valkyrie card from my deck. How about Embrace? I think I'll just activate it immediately, switching Dritte to Defence (Def.:1600), and banishing your Doom Archfiend. Then I'll end my turn.'

On commentary, Blair was explaining the pace of the duel. 'This is classic Highlander format - when Astrid and I were talking about the format, one thing I underlined the importance of is field presence. When you've only got one of every card, each card matters that bit more, so getting rid of one card, especially banishing, is so much more powerful. Look at that move there, banishing Doom Archfiend. If Kalin hasn't included any way to summon banished monsters, or can't get to his cards that bring them back, that Doom Archfiend is gone now, it's no longer an option. Also, he now has to get over Astrid's monster to beat her. Whoever has field presence has the advantage.'

(Kalin hand: Snipe Hunter, Infernity Pawn)

Kalin: 'I'll draw. I summon Snipe Hunter (Atk:1500). And I'll use its effect, discarding Infernity Pawn to target your Valkyrie Dritte.' 'Remind me again.' 'I roll a die, if it lands on a one or six, you're safe. Otherwise your monster is shot to a million pieces.' 'Got it. May the gods decide.' 'Yes, let them.' 'Glad you see now.' Kalin's apparent about turn was rewarded, as when the die crashed down, it landed on a 4, and Snipe Hunter shot out a black beam from its weapon, causing Dritte to inexplicably explode. 'That leaves you open for SnIpe Hunter's attack.' Another black beam was fired sharply, dropping Astrid's total (Astrid LP:5600-4100). 'I end my turn.'

(Astrid hand: The Golden Apples, Tuner's Scheme)

Astrid: 'I draw. I'll just set two and pass.'

(Kalin hand: ZERO-MAX)

Kalin: 'My turn.' As he saw the card, he sensed an opportunity. 'I activate ZERO-MAX. This will revive an Infernity from my graveyard. Reincarnate, Infernity Wildcat (Atk:1400). Then I'll use the effect of Wildcat to banish Infernity Pawn from my graveyard to increase its Level (Level:3-4). Now I'll tune Level 4 Wildcat to Level 4 Snipe Hunter, so I can Synchro summon my Hundred-Eyes Dragon (Atk:3000).' To anyone else, this would be a huge threat. But this was the moment Astrid had been waiting for.

'I'll flip my face-down - Tuner's Scheme!' This took Kalin aback. 'What… the… hell?' 'I've always had this handy but you just never saw it until now. When you Synchro summon, this Trap steals your monster away immediately. And if your… I mean my Dragon is ever destroyed, it's banished. Making it even harder for you to get it back.' With little choice, Kalin ended his turn.

(Astrid hand: Nordic Relic Laevateinn)

Astrid: 'I'll draw. I'll attack with Hundred-Eyes Dragon. Infernal Psyche Stream!' The shock assault from Astrid's newly acquired monster turned the tables immediately, as Kalin took a significant blow (Kalin LP:8000-5000). 'I'll end my turn with a face-down.' Just before she did so, the television cameras started broadcasting Astrid's hand in a very suspicious move, giving Kalin and the fans full view of what Astrid was setting. Not that he was planning on revealing this, nor was he planning on revealing that while Astrid was distracted setting her card, he had stacked the top of his deck.

(Kalin hand: Infernity Archfiend)

Kalin: 'I draw. Good timing - Infernity Archfiend.' Astrid didn't seem overly annoyed by this, putting the draw down to luck rather than cheating. 'Because I drew Archfiend, I can summon it automatically (Atk:1800). And then it adds another Infernity card to my hand, like Infernity Sage. Then I can Normal summon Sage (Atk:400), and Level 2 Sage tunes my Level 4 Archfiend.' Still not entirely concerned, Astrid started taunting her opponent in an uncharacteristic display of confidence. 'Hey, how about you summon Doom Archfiend?' 'When you lose this series you should go into comedy, at least then people might like you!'

The crowd took offence to this, and started to chant for Astrid. 'Yeah, it looks like they disagree with you. So are you summoning something or just gassing?' 'Let's just say I predicted that you'd try something, so I came prepared with my own little choice. Quite fitting it should be summoned here as well - meet Orient Dragon (Atk:2300).' 'Very good.' 'I think I'll choose to banish my Hundred-Eyes Dragon with Orient Dragon's effect.' As the stolen monster disappeared, Astrid was on the back foot once more.

'Additionally, because Infernity Sage was sent to the graveyard, I can send another Infernity from my deck to the graveyard. I'll send Infernity General there. Now Orient Dragon attacks directly.' Astrid had no answer as the Dragon unleashed its golden fire, dropping her Life points dangerously low (Astrid LP:4100-1800). She then had a surprise for him though. 'I activate The Golden Apples. This restores all the points I just lost (LP:1800-4100), and summon a Malus Token (Atk:2300).' 'I end my turn.'

(Astrid hand: Pot of Avarice)

Astrid: 'I'll draw. I activate Pot of Avarice, to shuffle back five monsters from my graveyard into my deck, and draw two cards. One of which was Pot of Greed, drawing another two. Now because you control a Synchro monster, I Special summon Guldfaxe of the Nordic Beasts (Atk:1600). Malus Token, attack Orient Dragon with Malice Stream.' The shape-shifting Token and the Chinese-looking Dragon clashed, with their respective range attacks meeting in a dead heat in the centre of the field. 'Guldfaxe, attack directly.' Astrid's Nordic horse rode in, headbutting Kalin on its way through (Kalin LP:5000-3900). 'I end my turn with two face-downs.'

(Kalin hand: Night Beam)

Kalin: 'I draw.' Through the TV cameras, Kalin knew that Astrid had Solemn Judgement and Nordic Relic Svallinn set. He just didn't know which one was which. 'I end my turn.'

(Astrid hand: Tyr of the Nordic Champions)

Astrid: 'I draw. I'll summon Tyr of the Nordic Champions (Atk:2000). Now both my monsters will attack you directly.' The two attacks surged in from the horse/warrior combo, leaving Kalin's points perilously low (Kalin LP:3900-300). 'I end my turn.'

(Kalin hand: Night Beam, Monster Reborn)

Kalin: 'I draw.' As Kalin picked up his draw for turn, the big screens randomly showed a reply of Astrid's second-to-last turn. It looked innocuous to most, but for Kalin, it was everything that was needed. 'I activate Night Beam, to destroy one of your Set cards. I'll target the one on the left.' As he hit Solemn Judgement, Astrid looked to the skies in disbelief. She then glanced over, and saw the reply of her turn again, and suddenly, everything clicked.

'Surprise, you're on TV! Next I'll activate Monster Reborn to bring back Tour Guide from the Underworld (Atk:1000). Then I'll banish Infernity General from my graveyard to summon two Level 3 or lower Infernities from my graveyard. I'll summon Infernity Conjurer and Infernity Wildcat (Atk:1200, 1400). And now, I'll overlay my three Level 3 monsters to build the overlay network, and Xyz summon the Ashura King! (Atk:2100).'

'Ashura King, attack her Guldfaxe. Ashura King has a few effects. Firstly, it gets 200 Attack points for every time it attacks. Secondly, he gets to negate monster effects. And finally, he can attack once for every Xyz material he has.' Ashura King started his many hands to work, pulverising Guldfaxe with them (Ashura KIng Atk:2100-2300, Astrid LP:4100-3400). 'When there's no other Nordic monster on the field, Tyr is automatically destroyed.' 'Well, I suppose you're all out of luck then.' Ashura surged towards Astrid, and without even touching her, the force of the punches sent her flying away (Astrid LP:3400-0).

After the duel, Astrid was furious, but before she could do anything, security guards surrounded her, and Bolton appeared in the entranceway. 'If you touch any of these security guards, I've been given permission from the Board of Directors to fire your sorry ass! Kalin, after your hard-fought win, you get to choose the stipulation for the next duel. Think wisely is what I suggest, you are one win from a magnificent victory.' Confident, Kalin smirked. 'I know exactly what I'm doing. I want a real opponent, so I'm going to declare Pick Your Poison, and I'll let you know now, I'm challenging Maddy!' The crowd looked shocked at this, as did Bolton. Astrid shrugged the security off at this point, but decided not to attack Kalin, and left instead.

Backstage, Astrid was still steaming about what had transpired. 'Bolton, you think you're clever just because you set up some mirrors or shit? Because you don't like me? Well it isn't going to work, because you're running out of tricks, and we're not. We're going to hunt you down for this, and when we do, I'm going to put my foot so far down your throat that I'll be able to crush your tiny little baby balls! And if you don't believe me, believe the red right hand.'

Elsewhere, Chazz was being interviewed ahead of his duel. Except it wasn't his opponent that was being asked about. 'Chazz' 'It's Mr. Princeton to you.' 'Sorry, Mr. Princeton, you have a duel against Johnny McGregor for the LFD Atlas Championship shortly coming, but I think a lot of people can't help but notice that you've been having multiple run-ins with Blair Flannigan, our World Number 1 recently. Would you care to share this with us?' His reply lacked any subtlety, but reeked of embarrassment and being flustered. 'No, I would not "care to share" anything with you. All you need to know is if she's the best you've got then taking over this dump will be even easier than we thought. Now I've got real opponents to prepare for. And as for that Cowbelle or whatever her name was, I don't mess around with babies.'

In the duel arena

Johnny was out first for the next duel, as the highlights of his duel the previous day were shown. In his same gladiator garb, he walked down loud and proud. 'The following duel is for the LFD Atlas Championship, and is to be held under Atlas Rules with a 25 minute time limit. Introducing first, from Govan, Scotland, the Glasgow Gladiator - Johnny McGregor.' Making his way down, he signalled at the crowd, who applauded in response.

Chazz's music then interrupted, but there was no sign of him. It played all the way through with the cameras poised, and then played again, but there was absolutely nothing. That was, until he rolled out of the entrance gate, with Belle kicking him down, Rio following her. As he tried to stand up again, Rio delivered a vicious kick to his throat, taking him down completely. The assault only ended when Johnny ran over to intervene, only for Maddy to walk out. She picked Chazz up, and annihilated him with a spear, leaving him in a heap.

They then turned to leave, only for Johnny to grab a microphone and get their attention. 'Hey you! You think you can just walk around, like you own the world, you can do whatever you like? Well guess what lassie, you can't. I took you on and I thought you had respect and honour, you fought with dignity. It looks like I was wrong though, you're just another common street thug.' Maddy laughed at this, and continued to walk away. But Johnny wasn't done.

'I came here to duel, so how about the "brave" and "courageous" leader gets her pretty arse down here so she can do battle with me?' This didn't seem to even slightly tempt Maddy, who just continued on her way. That was, until Rio muttered an idea to her, and the President turned around, and got into Johnny's face. 'If you want me, make it worth my while. How about, I put my title up for grabs, and you put your title on the line in exchange. Double or Nothing. That is, unless you're too scared.' Johnny grinned at her. 'Scared? Never! You're on!'

At Johnny's insistence, Maddy then got her introduction. 'Introducing his opponent, representing the Renegade Nation, from Stoneybridge, Northumbria, England, she is your reigning and defending WDC Young-Gun Champion, Don Alpha - Maddy Robinson-Cummings.' Maddy held her title up high, before passing her hat to Rio, and, after taking a moment to eye her opponent up one more time, walked to her end and started the duel.

Double or Nothing duel for the WDC Young-Gun Championship and LFD Atlas Championship: Maddy Robinson-Cummings LP:8000 vs. Johnny McGregor LP:8000

(Maddy hand: Fluffal Dog, Edge Imp Sabres, Frightfur Patchwork, Fluffal Sheep, Polymerisation)

Maddy: 'No time to waste. I summon Fluffal Dog (Atk:1700).' 'You not a little old for cuddly toys?' 'You not a little old to underestimate an Alpha? When Fluffal Dog is summoned, I can add an Edge Imp or Fluffal monster to my hand, and I'll add Fluffal Bear. Then I'll use Bear's effect to discard itself and set Toy Vendor face-down on my field. Then I'll flip up the Continuous Spell Toy Vendor. With it, once per turn I can discard a card, in this case Fluffal Sheep, and draw a card. If it's a Fluffal monster I can keep it, and then summon a monster from my hand.' She drew, and revealed the card - Edge Imp Chain. 'Edge Imp Chain goes to the graveyard, where its effect activates, to add a Frightfur card from my deck. I add Frightfur Fusion, and end my turn.' This move left Johnny incredibly surprised. 'You actually trying to win?' Maddy said nothing, just smirking.

(Johnny hand: Gladiator Beast Andal, Gladiator Beast United, Parry, Gladiator Beast Darius, Double Summon, Gladiator Beast Augustus)

Johnny: 'I draw. I summon Gladiator Beast Andal (Atk:1900). Andal, rip into her Dog.' The bear-like Gladiator ran at Maddy's Dog, and viciously slashed away with sharp claws, ripping it open to reveal stuffing (Maddy LP:8000-7800). 'Then I'll activate Gladiator Beast United.' This should have been concerning for Maddy, with the knowledge that she was going to take a large amount of damage. Except she didn't bat an eyelid, apparently not even slightly affected by this knowledge.

'With this, I'll fuse together Andal with the Darius and Augustus who are waiting in my hand, so they can combine into Gladiator Beast Andabata (Def.:2800). When Andabata is summoned, I can use its effect to summon Gladiator Beast Domitanus (Atk:3500). Attack with Spear Legion!' Domitanus launched a trident with great force, powered by a jet of water, which flew like an arrow, but Maddy just stared at Johnny the entire time, eyes glowing (Maddy LP:7800-4300). 'After the Battle phase, I'll use Andabata's effect to return it to my Extra deck and summon two Gladiator Beasts from my deck. Appear, Tygerius and Octavius (Atk:1800, 2500). I end my turn.'

(Maddy hand: Edge Imp Sabres, Frightfur Patchwork, Polymerisation, Frightfur Fusion, Fluffal Wings)

Maddy: 'I draw. I'll activate Polymerisation, which will fuse the Fluffal Wings and Edge Imp Sabres in my hand, so I can Fusion summon the demonic plaything of the deep that is sure to leave you all washed up, Frightfur Kraken (Atk:2200).' Facing down the googly-eyed Kraken, Johnny briefly laughed. That was, until he looked deeper, and he saw a pair of demonic red eyes glaring back at him. 'What… what in the name of all that's holy is that?' 'Soon, it's going to be your doom. In fact, it's already playing its part. Because what I really wanted, was Fluffal Wings in my graveyard. When it's there, I can banish it and another Fluffal resting in the great beyond to draw a card. And then, I can also send Toy Vendor to draw another one. I think I'll do both - the great beyond never was that great a place.'

This comment seemed to distract Johnny slightly. 'Wait, what are you saying missy?' 'You'll see.' She then looked up, eyes now glowing gold and red together. 'See when I activate Frightfur Fusion! This will join together through banishing, the Fluffal Bear and Edge Imp Sabres in my graveyard. Now watch, as the magic happens!' Instead of just vanishing into a vortex, the two monsters appeared, but only in silhouette form. That didn't change the gruesomeness of what happened though, as it was plain to see that the scissor-like Sabres all but trisected the bear, causing stuffing to fly out as it cut through, before sliding inside the gaping wound, and in a flash of light, they had merged into a monstrosity, a pair of scissors glistening through the torso, and a pair of demonic eyes and set of razor-sharp teeth in the neck, a pair of glassy eyes on the bear, no longer seeing, and all crudely stitched together. 'I summon Frightfur Bear (Atk:2200).'

Johnny was taken aback at what he had seen, as were the fans. 'Not your girl next door anymore, am I?' 'What happened to you?' 'The girl grew up. She changed forever, and now she's going to rip you apart. I'll now activate Gift of the Martyr. Frightfur Kraken will give up what little life it has left in order for Bear to grow in strength. Just like somebody did for me (Atk:2200-4400). I'll also equip Bear with Icaron's Destruction Ballad - Terpsichora! I can activate this from my hand when you have three Attack position monsters on the field, and I control only one monster. Now Frightfur Bear must attack all of your monsters, by exceeding its limits!' She then gave a sick, twisted grin. 'Frightfur Bear, RIP HIM APART! URSA KILLER!' The infernal Bear's scissors started to whir up into a tornado-like force, which sliced Domitanus in half, causing Johnny some pain (Johnny LP:8000-7100).

'And now, for my Bear's special trick!' Bear's arm, attached only by threads, rocketed out of position and down into Johnny's graveyard, whereby it heaved Domitanus out, and, without hesitation, threw it into its wide open torso. Shortly after, the Gladiator Beast's head appeared in the abyssal gap, a trophy if you will. 'You see, Bear doesn't let monsters rest in peace. Instead, it absorbs any monster it destroys, gaining 1000 Attack points in the process (Atk:4400-5400). 'And you…' 'Can do that as many times as I like.' It was at this moment that Johnny saw the answer he was looking for, in the most unexpected of places. For as Maddy gestured, her shirt rode up just briefly. It wasn't much, but it was just enough for him to see what looked to be the beginning of a surgical scar, all around her ribs, and the rib brace that protected them. 'That scar…'

Angered at him even daring to mention it, she immediately pulled her shirt down. 'Bear, make this hurt - attack Gladiator Beast Octavious.' The Bear's scissors once again spun up, and shredded Octavious until it was little more than shards of skin and bone, and Johnny took a huge sucker punch from the impact (Johnny LP:7100-4200). As he struggled to breathe, Bear took a second trophy (Atk:5400-6400).' Johnny took one more look, and saw that Maddy was enjoying the destruction. 'Feeling a bit cut up are we? It's ok, I'll make your defeat swift and painless. Or just swift.' Bear came in with one more attack, which turned Tygerius into a pile of remains, and saw Johnny just slump to the ground, in crippling pain (Johnny LP:4200-0).

As the destructive duel concluded, Maddy stood over her beaten and fallen foe, and raised both titles. She pulled Johnny to his feet, and then, the lights all blacked out in the arena. The moment the lights came back on, Johnny was surrounded by the entire club. Sensing the worst, he opted to go out fighting, getting a huge shot in on Freja before the inevitable beatdown. Astrid and Rio laid in a pair of very stiff kicks, Lydia provided a hard slap, and then Blair took him down with a bulldog choke, leaving him lying, barely conscious. They stood all around him, Maddy centrally raising her titles, and the proclamation was made. 'Your winner, still WDC Young-Gun Champion, and the new LFD Atlas Champion - Maddy Robinson-Cummings.' She raised both belts up high, before putting her hat and jacket back on, and quietly walking back.

As they returned backstage, Maddy stopped and grabbed a camera, shouting down it. 'This world is not for you, it's for US. What I did to Johnny there, I made an example of him, that is the least of your worries when you cross us. So by all means challenge us, tell us we're wrong, mock and make fun of us, because when push comes to shove, none of you can beat me, nobody is a match for Don Alpha, and you might just find yourself facing down the guys who run this company now. Power is just an illusion, until it's held by those who can keep it.'

Meanwhile, Taylor was interviewed ahead of her duel. 'Taylor Swift, we know you've been all around the world in your career and done all sorts. But surely you're now out of your element here, against Akiza Izinski?' Taylor simply laughed this off. 'I'm a Renegade, don't you see? That means I can do ANYTHING. I am part of something much more important than just her, I was chosen to be part of a revolution. And through that, I have seen such incredible power. I gave up everything to be a part of this - my independence, my mind, my body, my free will, everything. They destroyed me, but then they remade me, and this is my chance to repay them, by bringing them a traitor's head on a gallows pole. Oh, and don't call me by my old name anymore.' 'Your old name?' She just stared blankly in response. 'My name is now Taylor the Tormented. A name my Alpha granted me.'

In the duelling zone, Justin Pipe and Celina were entering, to LFD's music. 'The following is a tag duel under standard rules. Introducing first, representing the Leo Institute, they are the team of the Nightbird, Celina, and the Player - Justin Pipe.' They walked down together, but didn't acknowledge each other once in that time. Justin was also behaving oddly, walking slowly without any of his previous gusto or bluster, and not trying to advertise his book, which was noticed by Blair.

'Justin has been around for quite a long time now, and has really upped his game this season. He's got a neat Necrovalley strategy which tries to stop his opponent utilising the graveyard, which is almost like a second hand for a lot of opponents. But that's not going to be too good against either of his opponents, and honestly, he doesn't look too good, he had a run in with Maddy yesterday and he doesn't look like he's all there.' 'What makes you say that?' 'Have you seen him trying to flog his stupid self-help book? Because I've not. It's a pity as well, I brought some lighter fluid with me so I could get rid of a few thousand copies.'

'Well what do you know about Celina then?' 'I know that I do purple hair better than she does, if that helps. And I'm funnier. But she's a better dancer than me, so she's got one thing. She's got a Lunalight deck, she puts out massive damage when she's not interrupted, but she really is so vulnerable to any of her plays being stopped, she just always seems to put her entire hand into exactly one play. Great when it works, but it's so boom or bust that it's going to lead to issues.' In the zone, Celina did her usual dancing to prepare, while Justin appeared to be checking to make sure he wasn't being followed.

Kenzie's music then started, and she and Denzil appeared together, wearing matching Renegades Arena shirts. And their intro had a surprise. 'And their opponents, representing the Dynasty, from the Renegades Arena, North Shields, England, they are the team of Denzil Davis, and the Fire from the Saltire - Kenzie Calhoun.' The two youngsters walked down, while Blair got some very accusing questions regarding their status in the Renegades. 'So did you know anything about them being in the Dynasty?' 'Did I know anything? It was literally my idea, because I'm somewhat coaching both of them. I spoke to Phil and to Rio, they both loved the idea.'

'As for the duelling, I've coached Denzil almost from the first time he stepped into the Arena, and he's always been a tremendously talented duellist, who just lacked some concentration. He's patient, he's got a great eye for a combo, and he's one of the least selfish people you'll ever meet. Some of the moves he makes with his Karakuri Beat-Down deck are actually ridiculous, they don't always win the day but when you face Denzil, you know that you've had to work hard for it. He's also agreed to rap my entrance music at some point in the future, and if you've ever listened to him, you know that he insults people like nobody's business.'

'He's with Kenzie, who's really sweet, but has this incredible fire inside of her. She lives for a challenge, and her Muskets at Dawn deck really knows how to hit you where it hurts. Her boards look weak, but that's because all her monsters let her activate Musket Spells or Traps from her hand. Now to clear something up that I've seen online, Kenzie is allowed to use earphones in the duel because she's got an eyesight issue, which causes her to be far-sighted, and while she does wear contact lenses, she struggles to read her cards due to how close they are to her. Phil and a couple of his friends engineered her duel disk to read the cards out to her. You can see now that the referee is just checking that her earphones are connected correctly, and that they're reading out what they should be.'

In the zone, the two youngsters took their time in preparing for the duel, talking briefly as they shuffled their decks. Meanwhile Celina stopped her own performance, and realised that Justin was still desperately trying to make sure that he wasn't being followed. Eventually, satisfied that he wasn't, he joined in the action, only to be berated by his partner immediately. 'You've been over 10 minutes, what the hell are you doing?' 'Doesn't matter.' Before they could discuss the situation any more, Celina had a small stone thrown at her by Kenzie. 'Are you two going to, like, make out, or can we duel?'

Leo Institute (Justin Pipe and Celina) LP:8000 vs. Dynasty (Kenzie Calhoun and Denzil Davis) LP:8000

(Kenzie hand: Magical Musket - Last Stand, Magical Musketeer - Kidbrave, Magical Musketeer - Caspar, Magical Musket - Fiendish Deal, Tour Guide from the Underworld)

Kenzie: 'I'll start. I summon Magical Musket - Caspar (Atk:1200), and end my turn.' Clearly having not seen Kenzie's deck in action before, Celina saw this as a joke. 'Easy money - leave this one to me.'

(Celina hand: Nightmare Archfiends, Lunalight Purple Butterfly, Lunalight Black Sheep, Lunalight Blue Cat, Lunalight Reincarnation Dance, Monster Reborn)

Celina: 'Let's dance. I'll activate the effect of my Lunalight Black Sheep. By discarding it, I can add Polymerisation to my hand. And then I'll activate said Polymerisation, to fuse together Lunalights Blue Cat and Purple Butterfly, to Fusion summon the kitty with all the graceful moves, the dancer of your dreams, Lunalight Cat Dancer (Atk:2400).' 'I've always been more of a dog person myself… or a wolf person.' 'Well let's just say that Cat Dancer isn't going to change your mind. By using her effect, when she attacks, your monster survives… the first time anyway. So she can come and tango over your total all over again. Now attack!'

Seeing the attack, Kenzie looked to Denzil. 'Hey Den, you got an opinion on shooting cats?' He just looked back. 'Kenz, drop me a beat.' With Kenzie providing the backing, Denzil started rapping. "This whole tag thing, it's about teamwork yo, she goes high and I stay low, and I tell you know we only deliver a big blow, like when Kenzie activates Desperado!" This distracted Celina long enough for her to not see her Cat Dancer get blasted into oblivion by a rain of bullets. When she looked back over, she seemed confused. 'What happened to my monster?'

'Desperado'd it, he kind of warned you. Anyway, with the effect of Caspar, because I activate a Musket Spell/Trap in his column, I can add Magical Musket - Last Stand to my hand.' 'I'll just Monster Reborn to bring back Lunalight Cat Dancer then (Cat Dancer Atk:2400). I'll set one and pass.'

(Denzil hand: Set Rotation, Karakuri Ninja "Nanashick", Karakuri Gama "Shirokunishi", Machine Duplication, Karakuri Cash Shed, Karakuri Anatomy)

Denzil: 'Listen up, because we're the ones going to win, hey Justin you ok down there, you're looking kinda thin, you been preaching so much that you forgot to eat, you're about as interesting as a bowl of Shredded Wheat. I mean let's be real bro, this whole misogynist schtick got old in the 1800s. But you want to change how things look, I can do that too, I activate Set Rotation, so your valley of the dead won't be in living colour. Now I get to give us both a Field spell from my deck, and as long as one of them remains Set on the field, neither of us can activate a different Field spell. I'll set Oracle of Zefra to your field, and I'll give myself Karakuri Showdown Castle.'

'Now I can activate my Showdown Castle, because you can't activate your Oracle of Zefra, as long as you have no Zefras in your deck. Let's start the beat with Karakuri Gama "Shirokunishi" (Atk:200).' 'That's not exactly… impressive?' 'It is when I activate Machine Duplication, to turn one Gama into three (Def.:1000)x2. And now I can activate Karakuri Anatomy, before tributing the 1st Gama for Karakuri Ninja "Nanashick" (Atk:2200). When I Normal summon Nanashick, I can draw a card for every Karakuri that is in Defence on my field. So I'm getting two.'

'Now I'll tune Level 1 Shirokunishi to Level 5 Nanashick, to Synchro summon Goyo Guardian (Atk:2800). Then I'll tune Goyo and the other Shirokunishi to summon out Karakuri Shogun "Burei" (Atk:2600). I'll use Burei's effect immediately to summon Shinkuro (Atk:400), and switch itself to Defence mode (Def.:1900), and then Shirokunishi banishes from the graveyard to switch it straight back to Attack (Atk:2600). That fills up the two counters on Anatomy, so I can send it to the graveyard and get another two cards. I'll Monster Reborn next, bringing back Goyo, and I'll tune Burei and Shinkuro into Karakuri Super Shogun "Bureibu" (Atk:3000).'

'Now I can use Bureibu to summon Karakuri Strategist "Nishipachi" (Atk:500). When it's summoned, it can change its own battle position (Def.:1800), triggering Bureibu's effect to banish your Set card.' With Celina's Lunalight Reincarnation Dance no longer a factor, Denzil decided to push slightly further. 'I'll tune Level 3 Nishipachi and Level 6 Goyo to Synchro summon a second Bureibu (Atk:3000). With Bureibu, I'll summon another Nishipachi (Atk:500), and use its effect to switch itself to Defence (Def.:1800), and Bureibu will banish your Cat Dancer. Now I can attack.' The three monsters on the field of the new Dynasty members all launched a combined offensive, almost causing an OTK (Justin and Celina LP:8000-800).

'I end my turn.' The turn then passed to Justin, but he still wasn't really paying attention. That was until Denzil dropped some more bars. 'Yo weird guy, look round here, I got a little thing that you wanna here. Now I don't know if you're a freak or just some kind of deviant, but for you imma go lenient, I won't give a lot of stick, I'll just tell you to stop being a prick!' 'Hey, what did you just call me?' Kenzie repeated it for him. 'He called you a prick for belittling women like you do, I would have thought last night was plenty for you.' The terror of the previous day brought back, Justin just froze, and nervously drew.

(Justin hand: Necrovalley, Gravekeeper's Spy, Gravekeeper's Guard, Gravekeeper's Spiritualist, Gravekeeper's Supernaturalist, Necrovalley Throne)

Justin: 'I… I'll summon…' He then saw what looked to be a shadow nearby, and this was enough to send him into full blown panic mode. 'I'll summon Gravekeeper's Spy (Atl:1200), and attack your Karakuri thing.' As the suicidal attack was launched, Celina threw her arms up in agastness, as Justin showed the field a clean pair of heels (Justin and Celina LP:800-0).

With Kenzie and Denzil celebrating, the picture immediately cut back to Bolton's office, where Kalin stormed in. 'I could have beaten her without that, no fuss.' 'Your job is to win the title by any means necessary, to cure this company of the poison, and to stop that infernal family holding the title again. And I don't know what this is about a Pick Your Poison, I emailed you explaining that the way to beat her is to force her to use a loaner deck.' The Last Vanguard responded by shouting right in the Commissioner's face. 'Look, I don't know what agreement you think we've got, but we don't. I can beat Maddy any day of the week, twice on Sundays. She's all attack and no brains and you know that. It caught me out the first time, but I'm not making that mistake again. I'm going to destroy your "face" of the WDC, and then I'm going to keep that title, and start repairing the rotten core of this company.' He let Bolton go, and stormed out, slamming the door as he did.

Elsewhere, Phil, Blair and Rio were being interviewed, still in street clothes. 'Tonight's Main Event will see the Regiment defend the WDC Tag-Team Championships in a Trios duel against my guests, the Trifecta Frozen Diamonds. Now I need to ask, are you aware of what is at stake?' Rio took the microphone for this. 'If we win, we get back the titles that were basically stolen from us. If we lose, we never get a shot again as long as they're champions. Which, with the amount of challengers we have, will be about three minutes.'

'There has been a lot of talk about who the 3v3 favours, with the Regiment having to duel with an unfamiliar line-up, and your team having to use your weaker player.' This irked Blair, who demanded answers. 'Clarify.' 'Well Rio lost the tag titles, and is below the physical level that you might need for this duel.' This angered the Idahoan, who snatched the microphone. 'A little bit of respect please. "Below the physical level required", I'm just coming off 9 duels in five days to win the Baltic Championships, oh yeah, I'm the Baltic Champion don't forget, I'm more than just some faulty part, and people are going to learn that.'

Phil then stepped in. 'Anyone who thinks Rio is a weak link has a weak brain. We don't have any weak links, in fact I wish I could attack like she does. Point is, we're going to win because we don't just duel as a team, we ARE a team. We all meet, we all have a say, and when we're out there, you get the same experience as you do with two of us. We are a well-oiled unit, and the truth is, they know that they cannot deal with that. It's why they challenged us to a 3v3, hoping that we wouldn't work as a trio. But I'm afraid the truth hurts, because the truth is that they have made a huge miscalculation. We're not just good as a trio, we're better. Unbeatable even.'

'Now I understand that you're not here alone.' This was Blair's cue. 'Yeah, I've got my Dad and Nephew in the crowd, along with a few people from back in Shelby. So tonight's not just important, this is a family affair. We are a family, we win as a family, and tonight, we're taking those titles as a family.' It was left to Phil for the last word. 'Ladies and Gentlemen, tonight will not just be a show, it will be… the greatest show on earth. A performance for the ages.'

A video package was then shown documenting Akiza's relationship with the Renegades throughout the season, and then the making of her duel with Taylor. After the video package, the commentators took over. 'That duel will be coming up shortly - Taylor Swift vs. Akiza Izinski, in what will be an absolutely star-studded clash. Let's just throw you back to around 24 hours ago, when Akiza was up against the Renegades' young ward, Belle Draper. And we'll watch the end of the duel here, and Belle duelled incredibly well to pick up a shock victory Brad.' 'Too right, they way she coped with the pressure and the fact that she looked so cool throughout was hugely impressive. As for Akiza, will she be able to bounce back here?'

Taylor made her entrance first, ponytail up high, and wearing her Renegades uniform and a pair of light grey tracksuit trousers. But she wasn't alone. 'The following is a 25 minute Exhibition Duel. In this duel the winner is not decided until the end of the time limit, at which the duellist who has inflicted the most damage wins. Introducing first, accompanied by Belle Draper and Tormented Frankie and the Renegades Band, representing the Renegade Nation, from Renegades HQ, North Shields, England, Taylor the Tormented.'

As Taylor swanned down, she looked surprisingly confident at her chances. What nobody outside the club was aware of was that she had been training every day since the challenge, with Hannah and Astrid having both given significant help to her. She didn't once look nervous on her way down, and made the new salute as she stood, proud and strong. Her crew meanwhile, just stood back and watched as she did so, with Kelly in particular offering words of support.

Akiza then made her own appearance, dressed in her neon green and orange on black motorcycle leathers which she had been sporting recently, as well as carrying a black bag with her now. 'Introducing her opponent, representing Junction 7, from Tacoma, Washington, Akiza Izinski.' The Black Rose walked down slowly and gently, without any form of malice in her gestures unlike normal. In the duelling zone, they faced off, and Akiza just stared at her opponent, as if she was trying to analyse Taylor.

'I'm thinking Headphones? They ambushed you, ripped out your brain, sucked it out with the headphones and then started telling you how to feel? Seen it done so many times, you're not the only one. But maybe we can help you.' Taylor's response was blunt. 'I don't want help. Don't you see? They gave me so much power. This power is all I could ever want! I'm happy to be a slave, because they've given me so much. Obeying them, doing what I do, gives me so much pride. And now, they want me to destroy you.' Akiza then activated her duel disk. 'Clearly there's no saving you. I make no apologies for this.'

25 Minute Renegades Exhibition Duel: Akiza Izinski vs. Taylor the Tormented

(Akiza hand: White Rose Dragon, Roxrose Dragon, Blue Rose Dragon, Aroma Jar, Dried Winds)

Akiza: 'I'll set one monster and pass. I don't even know why we're doing this. My qualm is not with you, it's with your masters.'

(Taylor hand: Solar Flare Dragon, Ties of the Brethren, R:Blowback, Cataclysmic Scorching Sunburner, Awakening of the Possessed - Inari Fire, Fire Cracker)

Taylor: 'I draw. I'll activate the effect of Fire Cracker in my hand, to deal you with 1000 damage. It just costs my battle this turn.' The flaming goblin-like Cracker appeared on the field, and shot a spiralling wave of fire straight into Akiza (Akiza damage:0-1000). 'Then I'll summon Solar Flare Dragon (Atk:1500), and I'll activate this - Ties of the Brethren. This will summon two more Solar Flare Dragons by paying 2000 Life points (Taylor damage:0-2000, SFD Atk:1500x2).' 'Very clever. I wonder who told you to do that.' 'I just wish you could feel this - the freedom of knowing you're working towards a greater good, that you will have some impact, that you're on the righteous side.'

'Trust me, I know what being in their snare is like. And it's not something I'm exactly desperate to feel again. Your inner self will be disgusted with what you've become.' 'What inner self? Everything about me is about serving the Renegades' cause. Now if you want to send that message, you should hurry up. I'll end my turn and burn you.' The three dragons unleashed a torrent of flames, which took Akiza back behind (Akiza damage:1000-2500).

(Akiza hand: (Akiza hand: White Rose Dragon, Roxrose Dragon, Blue Rose Dragon, Dried Winds, Black Garden)

Akiza: 'I draw. I might as well make sure you don't get any more benefit from your monsters. I summon White Rose Dragon (Atk:1200). And when she's summoned, she brings along a friend from my hand - Roxrose Dragon (Atk:1600). Roxrose on summon allows me to add a card which mentions Black Rose Dragon on it from my deck to my hand, and I think I'll take Basal Rose Shoot, and set it immediately. Now I'll tune Level 3 Roxrose to Level 4 White Rose. The time of my vengeance nears, but if I have to deal with you, I will do. I Synchro summon my majestic Black Rose Dragon (Atk:2400).'

Black Rose was a monster which struck fear into the hearts of those who faced it usually. But with her heart of absolute ice, this isn't something which Taylor noticed. 'If you're not scared yet, wait until my Dragon rips apart everything on the field. Including your three Solar Flare Dragons. Black Rose Gale.' The whirlwind whipped up by the Dragon was enough to make the three dragons vanish into a flaming abyss, getting the slightest of reactions from Taylor in the shape of a shake of the head. 'When Basal Rose Shoot is destroyed, I can revive a Rose Dragon from my graveyard. I'll summon back Black Rose Dragon (Atk:2400). Now attack!' One of Black Rose's thorns shot out, smacking Taylor across the face and knocking her down (Taylor damage:2000-4400). 'I end my turn. Maybe that will jog your memory slightly.'

(Taylor hand: Awakening of the Possessed - Greater Inari Fire, R: Blowback, Cataclysmic Scorching Sunburner)

Taylor: 'I draw. I'll set a Trap and pass.'

(Akiza hand: Blue Rose Dragon, Dried Winds, Black Garden, Basal Rose Shoot)

Akiza: 'I draw. I'll summon Blue Rose Dragon (Atk:1600). And I'll then attack with both of my monsters.' Black Rose threw out another barbed thorn, while Blue Rose flapped its wings and fired sharp blue leaves, which left Akiza with a hearty lead (Taylor damage:4400-8400). 'I end my turn with two face-downs. If you're not going to break your programming I'll have to.'

(Taylor hand: Awakening of the Possessed - Greater Inari Fire, Cataclysmic Scorching Sunburner, Soul Charge)

Taylor: 'Even if I wanted to, there'd be no point.' Taylor then produced a shocking revelation. 'Even if I could break it, I don't remember anything about my old life. All my memories were lost forever the moment I became one of them. Oh, and I chose to, they didn't force me.' Unimpressed, Akiza challenged this view. 'That's a total and utter lie, they sent Kelly to recruit you while you were on tour somewhere.' 'No, they visited me themselves while I was on tour in the UK, and they pitched all this to me.' So incensed was Akiza at this that she didn't pick up on the contradiction in what Taylor said.

'Anyway, I draw. I'll activate Soul Charge, to revive monsters at the cost of 1000 Life points. I'll revive the three Solar Flare Dragons (Taylor damage:8400-11,400). Then I'll end my turn and let my Dragons do their work (Akiza damage:2500-4000).' As this happened, the clock reached halfway.

(Akiza hand: Black Garden, Blue Rose Dragon)

Akiza: 'I'll summon another Blue Rose Dragon (Atk:1600), and then end my turn.'

(Taylor hand: Awakening of the Possessed - Greater Inari Fire, Cataclysmic Scorching Sunburner, Inferno)

Taylor: 'I draw. I'll pass my turn (Akiza damage:4000-5500).'

(Akiza hand: Black Garden, Blue Rose Dragon, Sekka's Light)

Akiza: 'I draw.' She then considered her move for a little bit of time, before deciding to hold firm. 'I'll just end my turn.'

(Taylor hand: Awakening of the Possessed - Greater Inari Fire, Cataclysmic Scorching Sunburner, Inferno, Ultimate Baseball Kid)

Taylor: 'My turn.' Seeing the card, her programming took over again, and her eyes darkened. 'Prepare to feel the wrath of the Renegades - I summon Ultimate Baseball Kid. He looks weak now, but looks are deceiving. For every other Fire monster on the field, he gains 1000 Attack points. Including your Fire monsters (Atk:500-4500). Now attack Black Rose Dragon.' The hard-hitting youth hit a falling baseball with its bat, setting it on fire and bursting through Black Rose, catching Akiza totally off guard (Akiza damage:5500-7600, Baseball Kid Atk;4500-3500). 'I end my turn, and let my Dragons burn some more (Akiza damage:7600-9100). The truth is, you're not a Renegade, not because you don't want to be, but because you betrayed the club. But that's a story for another day.'

Akiza acted completely confused at this. 'I have no idea what you're talking about.' Taylor was just about to spill, when she heard Maddy on the arena's tannoy. 'Akiza, you know what you did. Taylor, you are not the person to tell her. All will be revealed when the time is right.' Akiza smirked at this. 'So the puppetmaster herself. Or should I say, the chief puppet? Because we all know it isn't you running anything.' The response was swift and threatening. 'I control more than you could know. If I could take control of DJ Tanner, I can take control of anybody backstage. Who knows, perhaps I could even be in control of this duel.'

For most, this would induce paranoia. But for Akiza? Not even close. 'Yes, because of course you'd do that, yet you're also warring with the man in charge.' 'Man? Not even a boy. All he is is a waste of oxygen.' 'Just because he won't give you what you want, is that it? Because no matter what you do, your revolution just isn't believed in by people who actually matter.' 'We matter. Every single member of the club matters to me, because being here means that in some way, they believe in what I believe in. We are the righteous, and if we have to rip apart every single opponent, that is what we will happily do. Now if you've got the guts to oppose us, by all means do, but you're going to get wrecked if you do.'

'The Red Right Hand is a symbol of revolution, but more than that, it's a symbol of trust. Because they have trust in me, to do the right thing by them, not only to lead the revolution but to look after their best interests. We are more than revolutionaries, we are people, suffering people, who have banded together. But you'd never know anything about that Akiza, because all of your suffering is self-inflicted. We're going to face off sooner or later Akiza, it's simply your choice which one it is.'

As the crowd rampantly cheered the challenge, Akiza disappointed them. 'Not a chance. It isn't fated to be our time yet. I will face any of you, but you. Until I tell you otherwise. Because you think you have all the control, but in actuality, fate is playing you.' The conversation was then taken over by Kris, who got almost as loud a reaction as Maddy. 'How about we skip forward with fate, to the bit where I deal with our little issue. You want an opponent? Well turn up to the next event in Luxembourg, and you can have an opponent - me. And if you thought facing Belle was rough, imagine never drawing any cards.' 'You want a duel? Fine, I'll happily take your head off on my path.' 'Good to hear. Now whatever you do, don't go back to Junction 7.'

'Why, would you get upset?' 'No, it's because while we've been talking, they've all been taken out.' Cameras then cut to a scene of utter devastation, as all the remaining members of J7 were sitting or lying, clearly in pain with multiple members of the club stood over them, including DJ. Just as this was revealed, a klaxon went off. 'Your winner of the duel - Akiza Izinski.' Akiza turned around, only to see Taylor smirk. 'Not so smart after all, are you witchy?' The brainwashed singer then departed, leaving Akiza entirely frustrated. She grabbed a microphone, and shouted 'You're all going to pay for this!' before leaving.

Backstage, the Regiment were being interviewed just before the main event. 'Here with The Regiment, Hassleberry and the tag team champions, Radley and Kari. You have had these issues with the Renegades for quite some time now, tonight is the opportunity to silence them once and for all. I just have to question whether you can work together after the issues you have previously shown?' Radley gave an eloquent answer. 'We had issues, but we have sorted them. Because at the end of the day, this is our opportunity to finally move on to some real challengers. We have stood tall each and every time that we have faced them, and I'm not talking about some heist, a highway robbery, every time we have legitimately faced off, we have been victorious. Tonight will be no different. Because Kari and I are the best team around, and there is no dispute over that. We're bringing honour back to these titles.'

Kari then took her turn. 'We don't just want to win, we want to win in style. So we decided to challenge all three of them, so that we can prove our superiority and dominance. They think that they have the advantage, because you never know which two of them you're going to get, but we can beat all three of them. They're yet to prove that they can actually beat us. You know why? Because they can't. Radley and I have taken down anybody in our path so far, and that won't change just because it's the main event.'

Hassleberry then had some very interesting comments. 'It's not us that you should question about loyalty, it's the snake on the other side.' 'Can you explain?' 'Well she's a military gal, we're militarians, and she's obviously a fantastic general. We're always on the look-out for an upgrade, our big Sarge would understand, sometimes you need a demotion to make yourself better. So our mission is simple - we roll in, leave them FUBAR, take our bounty, and roll out again. Sound the alarm, we're here to cause harm.'

Before the main event, highlights of duels were shown all the way from Desert Storm and the Heist of the tag titles all the way to the present day, highlighting the constant shadiness of the duels between the teams. The commentators then had a reminder for everyone. 'Now remember, this is a Last Chance duel, and we have had confirmation from the Board of Directors that this stipulation is for both sides. Whoever loses this duel will not be able to challenge for the titles again as long as the other team are champions.'

Suddenly, the opening to Backstreet's Back started in the arena. This seemed confusing at first, until the challengers appeared, all in elaborate costumes. Blair was dressed as Wolverine; with sharp, rapier-like claws, an all-black bodysuit with a yellow "M" in the centre to represent the Michigan Wolverines, and a leather jacket, while Rio was dressed in all black, looking like Catwoman with a steel whip and her own slender bodysuit, as well as a fabric tail attached to the rear, while Phil's face looked like Two-Face, with blistering over the left side of his face, and an unusual pink and green shirt, the pink half made of Nylon, and the green half, of rough Rayon. They were all also sporting the same pink trousers with blue lettering with their names on the back.

As they began the journey down, the three looked completely focused on the job, discussing tactics briefly on the way down, but looking completely calm. As they approached the duelling zone, Blair crossed her claws, and Rio cracked her whip, with it coiling around her like a snake, while Phil struck the ground with a gloved fist, as fireworks went off in the Dome, causing a huge ovation from the fans, and a litany of flash photography. They entered the zone, and waited for their opposition.

Soon enough, The Regiment's music hit, and the three came out in full military honours, accompanied by no less than thirty marching drummers. As per the rules of the duel, neither side had anybody accompanying them, meaning all the focus was on the Regiment's trio, who were all wearing a Medal of Honor on the left of their elaborate jackets. Reaching the duelling zone, the three all raised their fists, and then held up the Stars and Stripes between the three of them.

Finally, the two teams faced off in the duelling zone, and it was very tense, with Blair setting them to rights immediately. 'I'm not joining you, let's get that straight.' She then turned to Hassleberry. 'You're a disgrace to the army, wearing a Medal of Honor that you didn't earn. Do you even know what people have to do in order to earn that? You're a disgrace.' 'Coming from someone who peaced out of the Marines because she had a bad day and then still kept her uniform?'

'Bad day? Oh you think it was because I had a bad day? I was clinically… you know what, I don't need to explain myself to you.' 'You're a traitor to your country, you went soft and moved away. The two of you don't deserve to call yourselves Americans.' Rio then got straight in his face. 'Well if that's the case, maybe we won't call ourselves "Americans". Because maybe we like living in the UK. Because over there, we don't have to put up with patriotic psychos like you three.'

This caused Kari to join the argument. 'Oh we're the psychos? Not the literal alien who tried to kill herself because the woman whose husband she was snogging fake died? You're just a cheap stinking love rat, who can't be honest about the fact that when it comes to duelling, she's just fucking atrocious. You're so bad that the little snivelling mite in the stands would be better than you.' 'Hey, leave her out of it.' 'Or what? You going to go crying to your big brother again like you always do? Just be truthful with yourself, you're never going to make it, and you're the reason you're going to lose, because you're a handicap.'

Phil then confronted Kari. 'You'd know a lot about being honest? How about all the times you've had a go at Blair over upsetting your brother? You know, the one who she's never met? You still never told us what she's supposed to have done. But then again, you probably didn't get that far before you woke up, did you? The one thing you should be honest about is that you can't beat us.' He then pointed to Radley. 'At least he has some damn dignity, he might have less brain cells than I have fingers, but at least he wanted to win by being better than these two, not because you managed to stall out an hour.'

Before the argument could get nastier, Japanese duelling legend Masahiro Sawatari stepped in to make the introductions. 'Ladies and Gentlemen, the following is the Main Event of WDC Anniversary Show Day II, and is a Last Chance, No Holds Barred Trios duel for the WDC Tag-Team Championships. In this duel, there will be no interference, there will be no time limit, there must be a definitive winner. In the case of a tie, the match will restart at 4000 Life points, and keep doing so until a winner is identified.'

'Now introducing the teams. First of all, standing to my left, representing the Renegade Nation, they are the Top Contenders to the WDC Tag-Team Championships - the team of the Jewel of the St. Clair, Blair Flannigan, the Northern Nightmare, Phil Robinson, and the Baltic Champion, Cold-Blooded Rio Kastle!' The three of them posed together, as streamers were thrown down by some of the crowd, including Ally high in the stands. 'And their opponents, they are your reigning and defending WDC Tag-Team Champions - the team of Sgt. Tyranno Hassleberry, SPC Kari Tsukumo, and Private Radley, they are The Regiment.' More streamers came down, and Sawatari withdrew, letting the two teams make final preparations, and begin their duel.

Last Chance Duel for the WDC Tag-Team Championships: Trifecta Frozen Diamonds (Blair Flannigan, Phil Robinson, Rio Kastle) LP:12000 vs. [c] The Regiment (Tyranno Hassleberry, Kari Tsukumo, Radley) LP:12000

(Phil hand: Future Fusion, Cyber Pharos, Cyber Dragon Core, Cyber Dragon Drei, Limiter Removal)

Phil: 'I'll kick off by activating Future Fusion. And with the rules of this duel, any one of us can use this when the timing is correct. I'll then set a monster and pass.'

(Kari hand: Gogogo Golem, Gogogo Goram, Onomatopickup, Onomatopia, Astraltopia, Rank-up Magic Numeron Force)

Kari: 'I draw. I liked your play so much, I think I'll just set a monster as well, then pass.'

(Rio hand: Lyrilusc - Turquoise Warbler, Dark Simorgh, Lyrilusc - Beryl Canary, Swallow's Nest, R:Blowback, Forbidden Droplet)

Rio: 'I draw. If nobody else wants to do anything, I will. I summon Lyrilusc - Turquoise Warbler (Atk:100). When she's Special summoned like that, I can summon Beryl Canary from my hand (Atk:0). Now I'll overlay them both to Xyz summon Lyrilusc - Assembled Nightingale, and she gains 200 extra Attack from Beryl Canary (Atk:600). I'll set two and pass.'

(Radley hand: Premature Burial, Fire Formation: Tenki, Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Panda, Coach Soldier Wolfbark, Pre-Preparation of Rites, Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Spirit)

Radley: 'You calling that "something"? That was barely a move. I'll start with Pre-Preparation of Rites. This adds Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland and Fire Formation - Domei to my hand. Next I'll activate Domei, and send Fire Fist Spirit and Coach Soldier Wolfbark to Ritual summon Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland (Atk:2400). Then because I activated a Formation, I can summon Panda (Atk:2100). Panda's effect will revive a Fire Fist from my graveyard, like Spirit (Atk:500). I'll tune Level 3 Spirit to Level 5 Panda, so I can summon Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Kirin (Def.:2800).'

'When Kirin is summoned, I can set a Fire Formation directly from my deck. One like Tenken. Also, for every face-up Fire Formation, all your monsters lose 100 Attack points (Nightingale Atk:600-500). I end my turn.' His busy turn led to a smattering of applause from a very grateful crowd, while Blair readied herself to take her first turn. As she did, she briefly looked into the stands, and saw Ally cheering her on, leading to the faintest of smiles.

(Blair hand: Shaddoll Fusion, Book of Moon, Shaddoll Schism, Fusion Parasite, Secret Village of the Spellcasters, Resh Shaddoll Incarnation)

Blair: 'I draw! I activate Shaddoll Fusion, and because you control at least one monster Special summoned from the Extra deck, I can use monsters from my deck as material. I'll fuse together Shaddoll Beast and Shaddoll Dragon to Fusion summon El Shaddoll Winda (Atk:2200-2100). I'll trigger the effect of Dragon in the graveyard to destroy your Tenken, and I'll chain Beast to draw a card. Unless you fancy negating with Domei that is.' 'Yeah, I'll send Domei to negate your Beast's effect, and I'll also use Tenken to stop you touching Kirin with card effects this turn.' As the cards left the field, Radley had more advantage to gain.

'When Domei goes to the graveyard, I can add a Fire Fist back to my hand from the graveyard. I choose Spirit.' As he did, Blair had a small surprise to reveal. 'Now I've got Winda on my field, I'll activate the Field spell Secret Village of the Spellcasters.' Hearing this made her teammates smile, as a small, golden woodland grove grew behind them. 'While this is on the field, since I have a Spellcaster out, you can't activate any Spell cards. I'll equip Winda with Fusion Weapon.' The weapon appeared, and took the form of a scythe, which Winda grasped, and swung across the battlefield, before riding high on her dragon mount (Atk:2200-3700). 'I end my turn by setting two.'

(Hassleberry hand: World Dino Wrestling, Dinowrestler Iguanodraka, Dinowrestler Eskrimamenchi, Fossil Dig, Dinowrestler Coelsilat, Survival of the Fittest)

Hassleberry: 'Forward march! I'm starting by summoning Dinowrestler Coelsilat through its effect because my field is empty (Atk:100). And because I control Coelsilat, I can summon his trusty superior - Dinowrestler Eskrimamenchi (Atk:2200). Now my two Dinos are going to build me some Link arrows. I summon Link 2, Dinowrestler Terra Parkourio (Atk:1000, Arrows: Left, Up). Next I'll activate my own Field spell - World Dino Wrestling.' Kari looked unhappy at her Field spell being preempted, but kept her cool enough to not say anything. 'When I do that, Terra Parkourio can add back Coelsilat. Which I'll immediately discard to summon Dinowrestler Iguanodraka (Atk:2000).'

'Now I can Link off Terra Parkourio and Iguanodraka, to Link summon Link 3, Dinowrestler King T Wrextle (Atk:3000).' Hassleberry then briefly pondered his next move, before opting not to push further. 'I'll set one and pass. Over to you again.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Core, Cyber Dragon Drei, Limiter Removal, Pot of Duality)

Phil: 'I draw. I'll activate Pot of Duality.' This took Radley totally off guard. 'Since when did your deck run that?' 'Since I told you it did. Anyway you know how it works.' The cards which he revealed were Cyber Dragon, Cybernetic Revolution, and Power Bond, giving him a difficult decision. Except he made the decision straight away. 'I'll take Cybernetic Revolution. Then I'll summon Cyber Dragon Core (Atk:400). When it's summoned, I can add a Spell or Trap to my hand that has Cyber in its name. I choose Cyber Emergency. I'll end my turn by setting one.'

(Kari hand: Gogogo Goram, Onomatopickup, Onomatopia, Astraltopia, Rank-up Magic Numeron Force, Gagaga Magician)

Kari: 'I draw. I summon Gogogo Goram (Atk:2300). When I summon Goram, it immediately switches Battle position (Def.:0). Then I flip up Gogogo Golem (Atk:1800). Now I'll overlay them both to build the overlay network and Xyz summon Gagaga Cowboy (Atk:1500). I activate Cowboy's effect, but to use it, I'll have to attack Lyrilusc - Assembled Nightingale.' As she did, Blair stepped in. 'I activate the Book of Moon, targeting Cowboy.' With the Cowboy's attack gain prevented, and with World Dino Wrestling only allowing a single monster to attack, a frustrated Kari had to end her turn.

(Rio hand: Dark Simorgh, Swallow's Nest, Lyrilusc - Cobalt Sparrow)

Rio: 'I draw. I'll go to my Battle phase, and Assembled Nightingale can attack directly twice.' Rio's bird flew high into the air, and started firing off sharp feathers, littering the opposing field (Regiment LP:12,000-10,800). 'I'll just end my turn there.' As the crowd watched on pensively, it was Radley's turn.

(Radley hand: Premature Burial, Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Dragon)

Radley: 'I draw. I'll go to battle, and attack with Hassleberry's T Wrextle. Take out Assembled Nightingale.' 'I activate R:Blowback. This stops your attack, then you take 100 damage for every card on your field.' The forcefield not only protected the Nightingale again, but chipped away more Life points from the champions' total (Regiment LP:10,800-10,200). 'I'll switch my Eland to Defence mode (Def.:2000), and end my turn, do your worst.'

(Blair hand: Fusion Parasite, Shaddoll Schism, Foolish Burial)

Blair: 'I'll draw and activate Foolish Burial, which sends Helshaddoll Hollow to my graveyard. Then the effect of Hollow will send another card from the top of my deck to the graveyard for every Attribute of monster on the field. Cowboy's an Earth, Winda's a Dark, Nightingale's a Wind, there's a couple of Fires, so I'll mill four (Shaddoll Hedgehog, Fusion Weapon, Final Fusion, Nehshaddoll Genius). 'I'll use the effect of Shaddoll Hedgehog to add Shaddoll Dragon to my hand, and chain Genius to stop you activating Eland's effect this turn. That is, unless you want to use it now…' 'Yeah, I'll pass thanks.'

'Ok, suit yourself. I'll set a monster, then I'll attack the Set Gagaga Cowboy with Winda. Stitch of Silence.' Winda created a near-invisible, razor-sharp thread in her hand, and sliced through Cowboy's defences effortlessly, all without leaving her steed. 'In Main Phase 2, I'll use the effect of Phil's Future Fusion, to send Ancient Gear Golem - Ultimate Pound and Ancient Gear Hydra to my graveyard. You'll see the results next turn, but until then, I end my turn with a face-down.' As she finished her turn, her team-mates applauded her, which she appreciated with the flash of a smile.

(Hassleberry hand: Dinowrestler Pankratops)

Hassleberry: 'I'm up soldiers. I'll activate my face-down Survival of the Fittest. So now my T Wrextle gains 1000 Attack points, and when it powers through one of your monsters, it can march in again (Atk:3000-4000). Attack Winda with Jurassic Howl.' 'Hold up, at the end of your Main Phase, I'll activate my face-down Shaddoll Schism! This is an incredibly powerful Trap which will allow me to Fusion summon using monsters in my graveyard, but the monster I summon isn't allowed to attack directly. I'll banish Nehshaddoll Genius and my Shaddoll Dragon to Fusion summon the stronghold wrapped in strings, El Shaddoll Shekinaga (Def.:3000). Then I can send a monster of the same attribute to the graveyard from the field. So say goodbye to your T Wrextle.'

With his only offence gone, Hassleberry could only shake his head. 'Sam hill, I thought you'd be up for a real battle as well.' 'Psychological warfare soldier, I thought you understood that. It's not just about the brawn, it's about the brains. Now finish your turn.' 'I'm not ending anything yet. I summon Dinowrestler Pankratops because we control less monsters than you do (Atk:2600). Pankratops, attack that Nightingale.' The high-attack Dino got to work, slamming the Nightingale with punches, but Rio's monster stayed around by detaching a material (Atk:600-400, Materials:2-1, TFD LP:12,000-9800). 'I end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Drei, Limiter Removal, Cyber Emergency, Fusion Deployment)

Phil: 'I draw. I activate Fusion Deployment. Here's how this works - I reveal a Fusion monster from my Extra deck that lists specific monsters as materials. Then I can summon one of the monsters listed. So I'll reveal Cyber Twin Dragon and summon Cyber Dragon (Atk:2100). Winda, clean up their field by destroying Kirin.' Winda's deadly threads claimed a second victim, as she cleaved Kirin apart, leaving the Regiment virtually defenceless, and in great peril. It was only Hassleberry's Field spell and singular monster which were now saving them from catastrophe. 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

(Kari hand: Onomatopickup, Astraltopia, Rank-up Magic Numeron Force, Gagaga Magician, Forbidden Chalice)

Kari: 'My turn.' Seeing the card, she groaned. 'Oh thank goodness. I summon Gagaga Magician (Atk:1500). And because we now control a Spellcaster, I can activate Forbidden Chalice, which turns off Winda's effects at the cost of giving her 400 more Attack (Atk:3700-4100). Then I'll activate Onomatopickup, to get myself a copy of Onomatopaira. Then I activate Onomatopaira to add to my hand, Zubababancho Gagagacoat, and also Gagaga Gardna. I then summon Gagagacoat because I already control a Gagaga monster (Atk:1800). Now i can overlay them to Xyz summon Number 39: Utopia (Atk:2500).'

Blair saw the immediate danger, and sent a warning out. 'Hold tight guys.' 'Now I activate Rank-up Magic Numeron Force. This will rank up Utopia into a Chaos Xyz monster. Chaos Xyz Evolution! I Xyz summon Number C39: the banner of courage, the bringer of hope, Utopia Ray Victory (Atk:2800). And Numeron Force's effect negates all card effects on the field.' This was an opportunity for Blair to use her Schism again, but curiously, she opted not to. It was a decision which Phil found curious, but Rio seemed to be fully in support of (Winda Atk:2600, Nightingale Atk:0).

'Utopia Ray Victory, attack Winda with Rising Sun Victory Slash!' The Xyz monster came rushing in with two swords drawn, and as it approached, it glowed yellow. 'I'll detach a material from Utopia Ray Victory for it to steal Winda's Attack power (Atk:2800-5400).' The swords rotated upwards, slicing straight through Winda, and making her crash to the ground (TFD LP:9800-7000). Seeing their terror gone, the Regiment celebrated. None of their opponents seemed remotely concerned however.

'Pankratops, destroy Cyber Dragon.' The Dinowrestler came lunging in, crushing Phil's mechanical dragon with ease (TFD LP:7000-6500). 'I'll end my turn, and Utopia Ray Victory's Attack returns to normal (Atk:5400-2800). And that's what you get for messing around with us.' She then saw Phil laughing to himself. 'You want to say something?' 'The innocence and arrogance of youth. It took your entire hand just to pick the first lock. We've still got thousands of tricks left.'

(Rio hand: Dark Simorgh, Swallow's Nest, Lyrilusc - Cobalt Sparrow, One Day of Peace)

Rio: 'I draw. I'll activate One Day of Peace. Now we all draw a card, but nobody takes damage until the end of Blair's turn. I end my turn with a face-down.'

(Radley hand: Premature Burial, Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Dragon, Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Panda, Fire Fortress Atop Liang Peak)

Radley: 'I draw. I'll just hold firm and set a monster before passing.'

(Blair hand: Fusion Parasite, Shaddoll Fusion, Shaddoll Squamata, Homunculus the Alchemic Being)

Blair: 'My draw. I think I'll just set a monster myself.'

(Hassleberry hand: Dinowrestler Iguanodraka)

Hassleberry: 'I draw.' He looked at his draw, and looked frustrated. 'I'll pass soldiers.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Drei, Limiter Removal, Cyber Emergency, Overload Fusion, Cyber Dragon Core)

Phil: 'My turn. I'll activate Cyber Emergency. This card rushes any Cyber Dragon or monster with Cyber in its name from my deck into my hand. I'll add Cyber Dragon Vier. Now I'll Normal summon Cyber Dragon Drei (Atk:1800). I'll activate its effect, then I'll chain Cyber Dragon Vier, which likes to come in later. I can Special summon it if I summon a Cyber Dragon (Atk:1100-1600, Drei Atk:1800-2300). And Drei makes them both a Level 5 (Level:4-5x2). Now I can overlay them both to Xyz summon! Open the door and touch the future, as I summon out the latest evolution of Cybernetic technology.' He then gave a crazed grin. 'Blast me into tomorrow, Cyber Dragon Nova! (Atk:2100).'

'Nova's effect, I can detach a material to revive Cyber Dragon from my graveyard (Atk:2100). Then I'll rebuild the overlay network with Rank 5 Cyber Dragon Nova. Renegades Xyz Evolution! Life and death, a permanent cycle. It's time to break the circuit! Rank-up Xyz Evolution! Upgrade, Cyber Dragon Infinity (Atk:2100-2500). And now, Infinity will absorb your Utopia Ray Victory. Infinity Purge.' Infinity's tail briefly unwrapped, and slammed into Victory, immediately absorbing it as a material (Atk:2500-2700). Now attack Pankratops with Strident Shockwave.' Infinity released powerful balls of electricity from its mouth, which zapped Pankratops into a charred mess (Regiment LP:10,200-10,100).

'I'm not done either. Because what Blair wasn't allowed to finish, I will. I activate Overload Fusion. This will Fusion summon a Dark Machine by using materials from our graveyard. I'll fuse together the Ancient Gear Golem - Ultimate Pound and Hydra in our graveyard to Fusion summon the machine of mystery - Ancient Gear Howitzer (Def.:1000).' Seeing a weak, high level monster on the field, Hassleberry briefly laughed it off, until he heard about it. 'I'll give you a little crash course on this technology. Howitzer is unaffected by other card effects.' 'What - all of them?' He just nodded. 'Every single one. Also, once per turn it can burn you for 1000 points.' Howitzer's wheels started rotating, firing out bullet-like pellets at the opposition, pegging their lead back further (Regiment LP:10,100-9100). I end my turn.' As Phil did this, he realised his mistake of not attacking with Cyber Dragon, but quickly brushed it off.

(Kari hand: Astraltopia, Gogogo Golem, Xyz Change Tactics)

Kari: 'I'll draw, and then summon Astraltopia through its effect, because there's an Xyz monster on the field (Atk:0). And then it's joined by Gogogo Golem (Atk:1800), and I'll activate the Continuous spell Xyz Change Tactics, before overlaying my two monsters to Xyz summon Number 39: Utopia (Atk:2500). And with Change Tactics, I can draw a card once per turn if I summon a Utopia monster. Now I'll rebuild the overlay network with Utopia, to Xyz summon Number C39: Utopia Ray (Atk:2500). Then I'll immediately overlay again with it to Xyz summon Number S39: Utopia the Lightning (Atk:2500).'

'Utopia the Lightning, attack Cyber Dragon Infinity with Rising Sun Shock.' As it came surging in, Lightning suddenly started glistening golden. 'During the Battle phase, Utopia the Lightning can double its own Attack (Atk:2500-5000). And you can't activate any cards or effects when it attacks.' Kari's monster swung in with electrified swords, frying the Dragon very quickly (TFD LP:6500-4200). 'I end my turn.'

(Rio hand: Dark Simorgh, Swallow's Nest, Lyrilusc - Cobalt Sparrow, Lyrilusc - Sapphire Swallow)

Rio: 'I draw. I think it's time - I'll banish the Dark-attribute El Shaddoll Winda and the Wind-attribute Assembled Nightingale from our graveyards to Special summon Dark Simorgh from my hand (Atk:2700). Then I'll summon Sapphire Swallow through its effect as I control a Winged Beast (Atk:0), and use Sapphire Swallow's effect to summon Cobalt Sparrow from my hand (Atk:0). Now Cobalt will add Beryl Canary to my hand. Beryl can summon herself and also summon Turquoise Warbler (Atk:200, 0). Now I'll overlay my Cobalt and Turquoise to Xyz summon Sylvan Princessprite (Def.:100).'

'Now for Princessprite's effect, I can detach a material to excavate a card from the top of my deck. If it's a Spell or Trap, I can set it on my field.' As she did so, she smiled. 'Couldn't have asked for more. It's the Spell card Overlay Capture. Which I'll set, and then overlay my two other Lyriluscs to build the overlay network and Xyz summon Lyrilusc - Ensemblue Robin (Atk:1200). And with Sapphire Swallow's effect, when I Xyz summon a Lyrilusc Xyz monster with it, I can attach the Cobalt I just detached as another material (Atk:1700).' 'You still can't deal with Utopia the Lightning' boasted Kari, seemingly ignorant to the fact that Rio already had the out.

'I activate my set Overlay Capture, I can do this the turn it's set because it is a Normal spell.' 'I… had no idea you could do that.' This gave Blair the opportunity to chirp in with her advertising again. 'You know where you could have found that out? The Renegades Arena, www.' 'Shut up already!' 'Overlay Capture allows me to strip your Lightning of both its remaining Xyz materials. Then, Ensemblue gets another material (Atk:2200, Materials:4). Dark Simorgh, Howling Hurricane.' Simorgh created a dark and moody stormcloud, which quickly enveloped Utopia the Lightning, removing it from the field (Regiment LP:9100-8900).

'Then I'll attack directly with Ensemblue. Swooping Slice.' The Rank 1 came flying in at a devastatingly low angle, turning the tables on the scores (Regiment LP:8900-6700). 'In Main Phase 2, I'll use Howitzer's effect to deal more pain.' Howitzer's wheels powered it up again, and dropped the champions' Life points further (Regiment LP:6700-5700). 'I end my turn. Good luck winning when you can't Special summon or Set cards.'

(Radley hand: Premature Burial, Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Dragon, Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Panda, Fire Fortress Atop Liang Peak, Fire Formation - Tenki)

Radley: 'I draw. I'll start with another Field spell - Fire Fortress atop Liang Peak.' The field turned out to be a large temple atop a rocky hill, with flames occasionally rising up around it. 'Now I activate Fire Formation - Tenki, to add Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Bear to my hand. Then I'll summon Bear (Atk:1600-1700), and get my first Fire Fist counter on Fire Fortress (FF Counters:0-1). As for Bear, I can use its effect to send Tenki to the graveyard, to destroy your Ensemblue Robin.' 'Before you do, I should probably remind you that Ensemblue can't be destroyed by card effects because of Cobalt Sparrow.'

'Damn you!' he cried out. It was only his 4th turn, but already he was getting visibly frustrated. 'Fine, I'll activate Premature Burial to pay 800 Life points (Regiment LP:5700-4900), and revive Kirin (Def.:2800, FF Counters:2).' There was then a tense stare-off, with Radley waiting for Rio to use Ensemblue's effect, and Rio waiting for Radley to make his next move. Over two minutes passed, before Hassleberry nudged his teammate. 'Hey, I don't think the private's planning on activating that little bird.' 'Apparently not. Well I'll just end my turn then.'

(Blair hand: Fusion Parasite, Shaddoll Fusion, Homunculus the Alchemic Being, Meteorain)

Blair: 'I draw.' Knowing she couldn't currency beat over Kirin's defences, Blair looked for any angle to attack from, but in the end, her instincts got the better of her. 'I'll set another card and use Howitzer's effect.' This activation finally put the challengers in the lead for the first time mathematically, even if their lead had seemed obvious for some time (Regiment LP:4900-3900). 'I'll pass now.' The clock then ticked past 30 minutes, as Phil hyped his team up. 'Let's keep it up, just keep it up, keep it rolling.'

(Hassleberry hand: Dinowrestler Iguanodraka, Gamaciel, the Sea Turtle Kaiju)

Hassleberry: 'I draw. I'm going to tribute your Howitzer and your annoying bird over there to give you Gamaciel, the Sea Turtle Kaiju (Atk:2200).' 'I'll end my turn after that.'

(Phil hand: Limiter Removal, Cyber Dragon Core, Cyber Dragon Zwei)

Phil: 'I draw. I'll set a card, I'll switch Gamaciel to Defence (Def.:3000), and pass.'

(Kari hand: Gagaga Girl)

Kari: 'My turn. I'll just set a monster and pass my turn.'

(Rio hand: Swallow's Nest, Laughing Puffin)

Rio: 'I draw.' Seeing the card made her smile. 'I forgot about this little tech. I summon Laughing Puffin (Atk:1000).' Immediately, Blair started signalling over to herself. 'I'll activate the effect of my Puffin, to tribute itself and bounce a face-up Spell or Trap on the field back to the hand.' 'So you're returning my Field spell? So what.' 'It's not your Field spell I'm returning - it's Blair's Secret Village.' As the card returned to Blair's hand, she smiled at her friend. 'Got your back bestie. 'I end my turn with a face-down.' Blair then gave her an update. 'Doing well Ri, doing really well.' 'You too B.'

(Radley hand: Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Panda, Fire Formation - Tenki)

Radley: 'I draw. I activate Fire Formation - Tenki, which will add Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Elephant to my hand (Dark Simorgh Atk:2700-2400). Then I can summon Panda from my hand (Atk:2100), and use its effect to summon Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Spirit from my graveyard (Atk:500). Now because I still have my Normal summon, I'll bring out Elephant (Atk:1000). Elephant's effect activates, I can return the Tensen in my graveyard to my hand and add a Fire Fist of at least Level 5 to my hand. I'll choose the 3rd Panda. Then I'll tune Level 3 Spirit and Level 5 Panda, to Synchro summon a second Kirin (Atk:2200, Simorgh Atk:2400-2100). Kirin, eliminate that damn bird.' Kirin conjured a number of symbols resembling Chinese letters at blinding speed, before unleashing a scorching burst of fire into Simorgh (TFD LP:4200-4100). 'I end my turn.'

(Blair hand: Fusion Parasite, Shaddoll Fusion, Homunculus the Alchemic Being, Meteorain, Shaddoll Squamata)

Blair: 'I draw. I'll activate Shaddoll Fusion.' 'Damn, forgot you had that.' 'Because you control a monster which was summoned from the Extra deck, I can take the materials for this Fusion summon from my deck. I'll send Shaddoll Hedgehog and Naelshaddoll Ariel to Fusion summon El Shaddoll Construct (Atk:2800). When Construct is summoned, I can send a Shaddoll to my graveyard. Meanwhile, Hedgehog allows me to add a Shaddoll from my deck to hand, and Ariel banishes three cards from any graveyard. I'll get rid of Utopia, Utopia, and Utopia Ray, because under NO circumstances do I want to see another seven variants of Utopia.'

With no response to any of these effects, Blair added Wendi to hand, and then sent Beast to the graveyard. 'Beast allows me to draw another card when it's sent to the graveyard.' She then looked over at her teammates, and revealed her ultimate plan. 'Now i'll send the Dark-attribute Shaddoll Squamata and the Wind-attribute Reeshaddoll Wendi from my hand to the graveyard, to revive something you might remember, mainly because it barely left - Dark Simorgh (Atk:2700-2300).' Seeing it, Radley recoiled. 'Not that thing again, I just got rid of you!' 'You're going to hate him even more after your field is dismantled. Which I'll do by flipping up Shaddoll Dragon (Atk:1900). When I do that, one of your Kirins bounces back to your Extra deck. As for which one, quite frankly I don't give a' She then stopped herself, looked up at Ally (who was having the time of her life), and winked, causing one of the biggest cheers of the entire show.

'El Shaddoll Construct, attack Kirin with String of Assasination.' The one remaining Kirin prepared an attack, but instead had a single string wrap right around him, and it briefly glowed purple, slaying him in an instant (Simorgh Atk:2700). Shaddoll Dragon now attacks the Set monster.' Blair's hunch of Kari's monster not being entirely strong turned out to be correct, as Gagaga Girl bit the dust (Def.:800). 'If I'd known that was no issue, you'd be done right now. Simorgh, show them why!' The Winged Beast created a devastating hurricane on the field, which blasted the champions back (Regiment LP:3900-1200).'

As this happened, the clock reached 50 minutes, and the Regiment's Life total on the big screens turned red, which didn't go unnoticed, as Phil unleashed a rallying cry. 'Come on, we've nearly got this. Nearly home, don't let up.' Rio's enthusiastic response was 'Let up? Never!' Blair then considered her move for a moment, before ending her turn with just a simple nod to Hassleberry, who acknowledged it.

(Hassleberry hand: Dinowrestler Iguanodraka, Pot of Greed, Monster Reborn.'

Hassleberry: 'I draw. I activate Pot of Greed to get two more cards. Then I'll reactivate my World Dino Wrestling.' Radley seemed quite annoyed at his Field being replaced, but Kari quickly pacified him. 'It's the only way to win.' 'Now I activate Monster Reborn, so T Wrextle, you're back on the frontlines soldier (Atk:3000). I end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Limiter Removal, Cyber Dragon Core, Cyber Dragon Zwei, Cyber Network)

Phil: 'I draw. I summon Cyber Dragon Core (Atk:400). When it's summoned, I can grab any Cyber spell or trap from my deck. I'll take Cybernetic Revolution. Then I'll attack your T Wrextle with Construct and' Hassleberry then interjected. 'Hold your horses soldier, T Wrextle only allows one of your monsters to attack, and it lets me choose which one that is. So you're only attacking with Big Bird over there.' Knowing he couldn't get over the Dinowrestler, Phil nodded. 'I switch Simorgh to Defence mode (Def.:1000), and end my turn.'

(Kari hand: Half Unbreak)

Kari: 'I draw. I'll attack Dark Simorgh with King T Wrextle. Jurassic Howl.' T Wrextle ran at Simorgh, and picked it up, before slamming it into the ground hard, smashing its skull. 'I'll set a card and pass.' As he did, Phil looked over at Rio, whose turn was next. 'Just keep it tight, keep it tight.' 'Got it.'

(Rio hand: Swallow's Nest, Lyrilusc - Bird Sanctuary)

Rio: 'I draw. I'll attack with El Shaddoll' 'No you won't, because I'll use T Wrextle to force Cyber Dragon Core to attack or you end your Battle phase.' This is where Phil had a surprise for them. 'You can't use T Wrextle's effect if the target is no longer on the field. I activate Cybernetic Revolution! This tributes my Core to summon a Cyber Dragon Fusion monster, but it will be destroyed when the next turn ends. Appear, Cyber End Dragon (Atk:4000).' Rio then took back over. 'Cyber End Dragon, destroy his monster with Super Strident Blaze.' Hassleberry looked concerned, but it was Kari who came to the dino duelist's aid.

'I'll activate Half Unbreak. This protects T Wrextle, and halves the damage for the turn (Regiment LP:1200-700). Hassleberry then looked over to her. 'Thanks.' 'No problem comrade. Anything to beat them.' This didn't seem to have concerned Rio at all though. 'I end my turn.'

(Radley hand: Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Panda, Fire Formation - Tensen, Moon Mirror Shield)

Radley: 'I draw. I'll activate Moon Mirror Shield, equipping to T Wrextle. Now when it's involved in battle, T Wrextle always has 100 more attack points than whatever it faces. Attack Cyber End Dragon!' Radley's overconfidence showed as he targeted a monster already about to be destroyed, causing Hassleberry to shake his head. But the attack worked, as Cyber End was crushed by a big slam from T Wrextle (TFD LP:4100-4000). 'I end my turn.' Blair briefly looked concerned here, but Phil reassured her. 'All's good. Stick with the plan.'

(Blair hand: Fusion Parasite, Homunculus the Alchemic Being, Secret Village of the Spellcasters, Rank-up Magic Red Terror, Polymerisation)

Blair: 'I draw. I'll summon Homunculus the Alchemic Being (Atk:1800). And with it's effect, I'm going to turn Homunculus into an Earth monster. Now I activate the Spell card Polymerisation. This will fuse together Homunculus with the Fusion Parasite in my hand. And Fusion Parasite has an effect where it can be any named Fusion material for a Fusion summon. So I'll fuse them together, to summon Invoked Magellanica (Atk:3000).' Radley seemed bullish still. 'It doesn't matter what you do, you're still not able to beat our monster.'

Blair just laughed at this. 'If only you knew.' She then looked up, and gave a wicked grin. 'We're the Renegades, and we never ride alone. Do you notice something about my two monsters?' 'Neither of them can get past Moon Mirror Shield.' 'No, something else.' A moment passed, and they all drew a blank. 'They're both Level 8. I overlay my two Level 8 monsters to build the overlay network! Appear, the heart of the revolution, the angel of the seas, and the aquatic aurora - Number R27: Northern Lights Dolphin (Atk:3000).'

'Then, because I just Xyz summoned, I can activate this from my hand - Rank-up Magic Red Terror! This ranks up Dolphin into a Chaos Xyz monster. Renegades Xyz Evolution!' A sinister black aura then appeared around Dolphin, as it started to convulse and grow. 'When the purest soul meets the grimmest darkness, two forces collide and create a raging tempest. I Xyz summon Number CR27: Northern Lights Storm Dolphin (Atk:3000).' This move sent shockwaves around the arena, but for Rio and Phil, who both smiled, while still remaining laser focused. Meanwhile the bravado around the champions had been ebbed away to the point where they now looked actively threatened.

'Due to the effect of Red Terror, Storm Dolphin's effects are negated, but its Attack is doubled (Atk:3000-6000). Also, the three of us all get to draw a card when a monster is summoned with Red Terror. If it's a Spell or Trap, we get to set it to our field automatically.' As they drew, the three all set a card in their backrow. 'You don't need to feel left out either. You can all draw a card as well if you like.' Radley looked shocked at this idea. 'Free cards? Seriously?' 'Yeah, absolutely.' As they drew, she spoke again. 'Done that?' 'Yeah.' She then gave them the news very chipperly. 'Great, now you get to lose half your Life points. There's no such thing as a free card after all.' The champions were coated in a harsh red light as this was declared, dropping their total even lower (Regiment LP:700-350). 'I end my turn.'

(Hassleberry hand: Dinowrestler Iguanodraka, Tyrant Dino Fusion, Mirror Barrier)

Hassleberry: 'I draw. I activate Tyrant Dino Fusion! This fuses together the T Wrextle and Iguanodraka, to create the ultimate ruler of the Dinowrestlers. Stand to attention and welcome Dinowrestler Chimera T Wrextle (Atk:3500). I'll then equip it with Mirror Barrier. This stops T Wrextle being targeted for attacks, and Chimera T Wrextle's effect makes it the only monster of ours which can be attacked. So good luck harming us. I end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Zwei, Cyber Network, Cyber Repair Plant)

Phil: 'I draw, and I'm going to su' He was just about to make a move, when he noticed Blair pointing at Rio, who was holding both hands out at him. Getting the signal, he shrugged. 'I'll activate Cyber Repair Plant. Because I have at least three monsters treated as Cyber Dragon in the graveyard, I can activate both effects - I'll return Cyber Dragon Core from my graveyard to my deck, and then add Cyber Dragon Vier to my hand. Next I'll summon Cyber Dragon Zwei (Atk:1500), and chain the effect of Cyber Dragon Vier in my hand, to summon itself (Atk:1600). Now I'm going to Link off my two monsters to set the Link arrows. From the skunkworks of my unholy mind comes the most optimised evolution of Cybernetic technology. Become the path to victory! Seek and destroy, Cyber Dragon Sieger! (Atk:2100). I end my turn.' As he did, Rio applauded his move heartily.

(Kari hand: Megamorph)

Kari: 'I draw. I activate Megamorph, to double the Attack points of Chimera T Wrextle (Atk:3500-7000). Attack that stupid Dolphin with Jurassic Impact!' Blair had an answer though. 'At the start of the Battle phase, I'll activate Miracle Day. This makes all monsters indestructible for the turn and we take no damage. In addition, both teams now get to revive a monster. We revive Lyrilusc - Ensemblue Robin (Atk:0).' 'I'll summon Utopia Ray Victory (Atk:2800). Now continue to attack that Dolphin!' This turned out to be a catastrophic mistake, as Phil and Rio looked at each other, and then he spoke. 'I activate my face-down Battle Mania. Now your monster has to attack.' 'It was already…' Before she had chance to realise what was about to happen, Rio struck, face of pure focus. 'I activate Lyrilusc - Phantom Feathers!' 'No… NO!' Kari cried, but it was too late, as T Wrextle's Attack shrunk (Atk:7000-0). He still slugged into Storm Dolphin, which responded by drilling straight through its chest, and sending a drill careening into the Regiment, ending the contest (Regiment LP:350-0).

As the duel concluded, Blair let out a scream of delight, as Phil was given both title belts. He briefly held them up, before passing them over to his teammates, as the three of them joined in a collective hug, while the Michigan crew and Jade joined them. 'Your winners, and the new WDC Tag-Team Champions, the Trifecta Frozen Diamonds.' As it was announced, the trio hugged, and Phil patted them both on the back. Meanwhile, the fallen champions slinked away, devastated by their defeat.

There was then a touching moment when Blair gave her title belt to Ally to hold. As she did, Hannah came down and kissed her husband, while Rio held her title tight with Jade next to her. After the three posed for more pictures, the celebration continued with the champions signing some autographs for lucky fans. The show ended with the trio holding the belts together, as the music continued to play throughout.

Next time: Dakota and Denny come to the base, but Dakota quickly learns that danger hides in unassuming places. Meanwhile, Freja's spell takes a bizarre turn, and Astrid proves to be craftier than Bolton could ever have expected. Renegades: A New Dawn Chapter LIV: Hard Lessons