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.

68. Way of the Witch

Renegades: A New Dawn

Chapter LXVIII: Way of the Witch

LFD Euro Fest: Munich card:

LFD Doubles Championships (if Bad Breed do not win, they forfeit the titles): Junction 7 (Nash/Kieran Byrne) vs. [c] Bad Breed (Belle Draper/Freja McKinna)

Akiza Izinski vs. KAI

Top Contender's Duel for the WDC Young-Gun Championship: Belle Draper vs. Justin Pipe

WDC Tag-Team Championships: Brown Brothers vs. [c] Frozen Diamonds (Blair Flannigan/Rio Kastle)

WDC Young-Gun Championship: Chazz Princeton vs. Myka Grainger vs. [c] Maddy Smith

WDC Championship: The Sledgehammer vs. [c] Phil Robinson

On the plane to Munich

The club members were on the way to Germany for the next event, and they were to be joined by some special guests, as Maddy was confirming with Rio. 'So they're coming?' 'Yeah, Sky's allowed to fly, so they've chartered a special quieter plane for themselves. Still don't see why Astrid's with them though.' 'I have no idea, probably free babysitting services. You realise she's barely been away from their house.' 'Thought I hadn't seen much of her recently. B, you know how much she's been at their house?'

The newly crowned U.S. National Champion looked up surprised, having been paying little attention to their conversation. 'Pardon?' 'Astrid' 'Oh yeah, it's strange that she's suddenly flying voluntarily. We should just use the lure of a baby every time we want her to do anything.' 'It was about how much time she's spending there.' 'Oh yeah, sure, it's a lot.'

Maddy then turned around. 'Wanna talk? You've barely spoken the entire journey and that's not like you.' 'Sorry, me and Jade had a bit of an argument last night, she hasn't spoken to me all morning.' 'Let me guess, it was something to do with going to America without her.' 'No, no, that was all fine. It's… never mind, I don't really want to talk about it.'

As Blair shut down again, Rio had another concern. 'Don't you think Lydia suddenly being back with us is dangerous?' Maddy responded with an indignant shrug. 'Look, she's got two choices, behave or lose Fre, I know which one I'd bet on.' 'How's she been with Belle?' 'Erm… frosty but cordial. Lydia's hardly been friendly, but Belle's not exactly making a huge effort herself now. I never thought I'd say this, but Freja's actually being the voice of reason.'

As they landed in Munich, they quickly met up with Phil and Hannah, but surprisingly, Astrid was absent. 'Decided she didn't like flying then?' Maddy quipped sarcastically. 'Actually, Astrid's just gone to ask where the baby changing facilities are at the arena, because neither of us speak German.' 'How was the flight?' 'Really good, Skylar coped so well with it like you wouldn't believe' he crowed in absolute unbridled pride. 'You're not gonna stop smiling about him are you?' 'Probably not. At least for a while.'

Maddy then noticed that Phil had an unusually shiny silver briefcase by his side. 'So, what's that?' 'It's a briefcase Maddy, I'm sure you know what they look like.' 'No, I mean what's in it?' 'Business.' 'Like?' 'Just business-ey stuff.' Maddy smelled a rat though. 'I don't believe you. What's really in there.' 'I'm not telling you, it's private business stuff.' He walked away before she could protest any more.

Meanwhile, Hannah was feeding Skylar when Jade approached her. 'He's really cute.' 'He so is, isn't he? How's everything with you and Blair, I'm guessing that's why you came up to me.' 'I mean I wanted to say hello because I've not seen you in a while, but I… did kind of want to talk to you. It's about Ally and the whole Autism thing, I'm really sure she's got it, I've spoken to a couple of people in the know, they think she should get a test.'

'But Blair.' 'She just won't even consider the idea, it's like it's some kind of dirty word.' 'She doesn't understand, that's why.' 'Every time I try and talk to her about it though. So I'm not sure if you or Phil could talk to her?' 'It's probably Phil you want, he's the real expert, but I'll try and talk to Blair if I get the chance.' 'She just won't listen to me, we had an argument this morning over it, I ended up just storming out because I know that I'm right, but she won't even consider the possibility.'

Consoling Jade, Hannah made an admission. 'One thing you need to understand is that Blair's actually quite similar to myself, we're both incredibly stubborn when we think we're right. Now she's worried about there being something "wrong" with Ally, and she won't accept it because she's a parent, and there can't be anything wrong. It's just giving her time, letting her accept that there's something. But whatever you do, please don't get a diagnosis without her, it would absolutely destroy her inside.' 'Absolutely not, everything we do in terms of Ally is her decision ultimately, we both know that. But thanks for your advice.' 'You're more than welcome.'

Meanwhile, Dakota was sat quietly on a smashed hinkelstein when Belle approached her. 'So Akiza again?' 'Yep.' 'How you're up against her again I don't know, I thought she'd had enough the first time.' 'So did I, but apparently LFD wanted to see her duel, and they thought I'd be a good opponent. Not looking forward to it I'll admit, Akiza's been pretty wild recently by her own standards. For all I know she could just turn up with a gun and shoot me.'

Seeing the concern, Belle tried to reassure her. 'You'll be safe, I promise. Trust me, they don't want any part of you, and they want a part of me even less.' Looking to distract herself though, Dakota turned the tables. 'So you're doing double duty tonight?' 'Yep.' 'How you feeling about it?' The response was typically calm and aloof. 'It is what it is really, I'll probably have some time to mentally reset between duels, and I'm not really expecting much, whatever happens just happens, that's basically just how it is.'

'Have some confidence in yourself' Dakota joked, but Belle wasn't laughing. 'I'm totally serious, I still don't really know what I'm doing, most of this is just things I've picked up and seen online. I'm nowhere at the level of someone like Maddy, or you even, I'm just trying my best and doing way better than I thought I ever would.' As Belle went to walk off though, she turned back to Dakota. 'Nice diversion by the way.'

In the arena

After an introduction showing how all the duels came about, the show began with Nash and Kieran emerging from the tunnel, getting well-recognised and appreciated. 'The following duel is for the LFD Doubles Championships. Introducing first, the challengers, from Twin Falls, Idaho, USA, this is the Last Emperor - NASH, and his partner, from Croydon, England, the Goliath - Kieran Byrne.' On their way down, there were few theatrics aside from Nash shouting 'Those titles are ours!', and in the zone, eagerly awaited their opponents.

Soon after, the Bad Breed's music hit, and they appeared in the same gear from the previous show. 'Introducing their opponents, from St. Helens, Merseyside, England, Ms. Hellfire - Freja McKinna. And her partner, from Headingley, Leeds, England, Belle Draper. Together they are the LFD Doubles Champions - the Bad Breed.' As they walked down, Freja pulled Belle to the side, and they posed for a photo with a fan holding a sign saying "Belle: Bad and Beautiful", annoying their opponents. In the zone, they held up their belts, and immediately started the duel.

LFD Doubles Championships: Junction 7 (Nash/Kieran Byrne) LP:8000 vs. Bad Breed (Freja McKinna/Belle Draper) LP:8000

(Freja hand: Drytron Delta Altais, Drytron Nova, Dryron Meteor Shower, Drytron Asterism, Stars Align Across the Milky Way)

Turn 1: Freja: 'I'll draw. I activate Drytron Nova, to summon Drytron Alpha Thuban from my deck (Atk:2000). Alpha's effect will add Drytron Meteonis Draconids to my hand. Then Delta, tribute Alpha (Def.:0). The effect of Delta will reveal Draconids in my hand and draw another card. I'll set three cards and pass.'

(NASH hand: Gazer Shark, Xyz Reborn, Armored Xyz, Buzzsaw Shark, Jawsman, Dream Shark)

Nash: 'I'll draw. I summon Buzzsaw Shark (Atk:1700), and targeting itself, I can summon this from my deck - Lantern Shark (Atk:1500).' There was to be no big play however, as Freja had a plan. 'I activate my face-down E.M.R, and… Belle, what does it mean again?' Providing the technical support, Belle explained 'It stands for Electro-Magnetic Railgun, and it uses supersonic magnetic pulses from a Machine on our field, tributing it to destroy a card on your field for every 1000 Attack the monster had. So the 2000 Attack Drytron Delta Altais will provide two blasts.' 'In other words, you're screwed.'

As Altais was absorbed into the railgun, it slowly aimed itself at Buzzsaw Shark. 'Ready, Aim, FIRE!' The moment Freja screamed, the gun unleashed a near-invisible blast which rippled the air in front of it, tearing Buzzsaw Shark apart with the force. The gun then turned to Lantern Shark, and loaded up another shot, but not before an apparent comedy act. 'What word would you use to launch this Belle?' 'Erm… geronimo?' 'No, not it.' After some more thought, she came up with 'Fire', and the railgun went off, obliterating a second fish. 'I'll summon Dream Shark from my hand (Def.:2600), and end my turn.'

(Belle hand: Domain of the True Monarchs, Wavering Eyes, Qliphort Shell, Qliphort Scout, Qliphort Monolith, Qliphort Stealth)

Belle: 'I draw. I'll set my Scales with Scale 9 Qliphort Scout and Scale 1 Qliphort Monolith, so I can Pendulum summon one monster - Qliphort Stealth (Atk:2800-1800). Now the effect of Scout pays 800 Life points (BB LP:8000-7200), to search for Saqlifice. Then I'll use Wavering Eyes, destroying both scales to search for Anti-Human Intelligence - ME-PSY-YA (J7 LP:8000-7500). Now I activate ME-PSY-YA in the Pendulum zone, and equip Stealth with Saqlifice, before tributing it for Qliphort Shell (Atk:2800). Because Shell was summoned this way, it deals piercing damage. Also, Saqlifice adds Qliphort Stealth to my hand.'

Seeing the board being set up, the challengers knew they were in trouble. Unbeknownst to Nash and Kieran though, their situation was about to get much worse. 'And now, I'll activate Domain of the True Monarchs. As long as I control a Tribute summoned monster with either 2400 or 2800 Attack and 1000 Defence, like Shell for example, you can't summon any Extra deck monsters. No Synchros, no Xyz, NOTHING. Shell, attack. And when a monster who fits the… erm… domains of my Field spell attacks, it gains 800 Attack points until after the battle. Under LFD rules though I can't attack until Kieran takes his turn, so I'll end mine.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Big Waraji, Superheavy Samurai Blue Brawler, Superheavy Samurai Battleball, Superheavy Samurai Fist, Superheavy Samurai Soulbuster Gauntlet, Superheavy Samurai Soulclaw)

Kieran: 'I draw. I'm bringing out Superheavy Samurai Blue Brawler, which immediately switches to Defence (Def.:2000). Then I'll equip it with Soulclaw, gaining 500 Attack and Defence (Def.:2000-2500), then end my turn.'

(Freja hand: Drytron Meteonis Draconids, Drytron Meteonis Quadrantids)

Freja: 'I'll draw, and attack Dream Shark with Qliphort Shell.' Shell rolled into a ball (Atk:2800-3600), and spun up to speed, firing shards of metal into the Shark and destroying it (J7 LP:7500-6500). 'And as Shell can attack twice, it's going into Blue Brawler now.' Shell's second attack ripped into the Samurai, but it stood firm and strong (Atk:2800-3600, J7 LP:6500-5400). 'Delta tribute Draconids (Def.:0), I'll draw and end my turn.'

(Nash hand: Gazer Shark, Jawsman, White Mirror)

Nash: 'You're not real duellists, you're just a couple of punks with ambitions way above their skill level. I activate White Mirror, to add Buzzsaw Shark back to my hand, then summon Buzzsaw Shark from my deck (Atk:1700). And its effect summons Hammer Shark (Atk:1700). Then I'll tribute Hammer Shark to summon Jawsman, who gets 300 Attack for every other Water monster I control (Atk:2600-2900). It's time to chow down! Attack Shell.'

'No chance. I activate Drytron Asterism.' 'The hell is that?' 'It's a Spell card which takes 1000 Attack from Drytron Delta Altais (Atk:2000-1000), and destroys your Jawsman.' Asterism caused Delta to glow brightly, smashing into Jawsman like a bullet and chipping itself in the process (Atk:2000-1000). 'Well I can still take out your Delta Altais with Buzzsaw Shark.' Buzzsaw swam towards Delta, and with its two facial sawblades whirring, ground it's way through it with a horrid screeching sound from the metal. 'I end my turn.'

(Belle hand: Qlife's End)

Belle: 'I draw. I'll set this and then attack Buzzsaw Shark with Shell.' Shell quickly got up to speed, powered up by the Field Spell (Atk:2800-3600), ripping up the Shark (J7 LP:5400-3500). 'For the second attack, I'll take on Blue Brawler.' 'I'll protect it with Soulbuster Gauntlet. BY sending it to the graveyard, the Defence of my monster is doubled (Def.:2500-5000, BB LP:7200-5800). 'I end my turn.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Big Waraji, Superheavy Samurai Battleball, Superheavy Samurai Fist, Superheavy Samurai Soulshield Wall)

Kieran: 'I'll draw, and equip Blue Brawler with a Soulshield Wall, boosting it by 1200 Defence (Def.:2500-3700). Your turn.'

(Freja hand: Drytron Meteonis Quadrantids, Sauravis the Ancient and Ascended)

Freja: 'I'll draw, and tribute Sauravis the Ancient and Ascended for Drytron Delta Altais (Def.:0). Delta effect, I'll reveal Drytron Meteonis Quadrantids to draw a new card.' As she drew the card, she nodded to Belle, who enacted the plan. 'I activate Qlife's End, summoning itself as a Trap monster (Atk:1000). Now the fun thing with Qlife's End, is that when it's used to Tribute summon a Qliphort, it counts as three tributes.' Freja then laughed. 'Begone with Qlife's End, because this is the duel's end! Rise for the ferocious killing machine, Apoqliphort Skybase (Atk:2900).'

This terrified Nash, who knew what was coming next. Peculiarly though, Kieran didn't react the same way; rather, he remained absolutely icy cool throughout, barely even acknowledging the situation they were in. If anything, he looked impressed with his opponents. 'Skybase, use your effect to seize possession of their Blue Brawler.' A beam was fired from the light at the front of Skybase, dragging Blue Brawler onto the champions' field. 'And now both our monsters can attack directly.' Shell spun up quickly and fired out spikes while Skybase shot a white laser from its light, which resulted in the Bad Breed retaining easily (J7 LP:5700-0).

After the duel finished, Belle and Freja raised their Doubles titles, but before they could even be announced as winners, the masked figure who had previously thrown Freja down a set of stairs attacked them, using a concealed pair of brass knuckles to take them both down before they could even react. They then pulled a small hammer out of their pocket and laid Belle's arm out at an angle, attempting to break her arm. Before they could do any damage however, Freja fought back, only to be put down again.

This provided sufficient opportunity for the Dynasty's music to hit as Blair and Rio dashed out, fighting off the attacker, who swung at Blair only for her to kick the weapon out of their hand. Seeing the weapon go flying, they went to leave, but Rio followed her, and got into a scrap with the attacker, pulling them back by their long coat and getting into a swinging match, before they managed to squirm and escape, not before Rio tore away their mask though, confirming that they had ginger hair.

Backstage, Belle was getting checked out by Rio. 'How bad's the damage then?' 'Looks worse than it is, you've got some deep bruising there but nothing appears to be broken.' 'So I can still duel later?' 'Oh yeah absolutely, I'll get some ice on it, that should limit the swelling. I'd maybe get a pad on it or some bandage just to protect it as well. Nothing else, not knocked out or anything?' 'No, just my elbow.'

While Rio applied ice to the injured elbow, she and Blair tried to put the pieces together. 'So this is just someone who really hates Fre?' 'Probably not, more like an easy target. Whoever's attacking them wants to prove a point, but they want to test the waters before going after the big fish. In other words, they're cowards.' 'So who do you think it is?' 'You tell me, I ain't a clue.' They continued to debate the motive, albeit without producing any significant names.

In the car park

Caprice was walking into the arena, when she walked past Rodney Brown, patting him on the back as she did, which was noticed by a local reporter looking for Maddy. 'Caprice, we just saw you communicating with Rodney Brown there. Now we know about the random attacks on Maddy by the Brown Brothers recently, so it does beg the question, were you in some way involved?'

Caprice responded by laughing. 'Seriously, it took you THAT long to work it out? Yeah, I paid for the attack, for a pair of rednecks they drive a hard bargain.' 'But the question remains, why?' 'Like I'd get involved, I'm saving all my energy.' 'No, why did you arrange an attack?' Caprice didn't speak for once, rather she pulled out a tape recorder, with an extract pulled from Maddy's interview on French radio a couple of weeks before.

'So you believe that you're unbeatable for your title?' 'Might as well be.' 'You are not scared of anyone?' 'Scared? Fuck no. What's there to be scared of?' 'No mutiny?' 'Look, any of them can challenge me, but doesn't mean they're gonna beat me.' 'Caprice? She debuted recently, looked good.' Maddy was so shocked by the idea that she snorted. 'Yeah, Caprice is totally a threat. Seriously though, she couldn't beat me if I was half dead, pretty girl's never achieved anything on her own in her life. It's always Daddy's money this, rich inheritance that, she's all breasts and lip filler and no brains.'

At this point, Caprice cut the remainder of the recording off. 'Now I've got a little secret that I've been keeping. See, when I signed my contract before I broke my leg, me and Michael, we came to a little bit of a negotiation. I signed a contract here despite being offered a lot of money to go to Leo, but in return, he offered me a guaranteed shot at whichever title I liked. Now I was going to target the big one, and honestly Phil would be a great challenge, because you don't become World Champion and a six time WDC Champion by being a lazy lummox, but after hearing that, I'm going to wait until Maddy's worn herself out with her big action, and then swoop in and end her record reign. And then all the record books will remember that the sun, only shines on me' she confidently proclaimed, pushing her sunglasses back up before entering the arena.

As this was being talked about, Akiza was sat in a darkened room, which was now illuminated by a candle. 'Life is all about priorities. It turns out that it isn't my place to destroy our so-called "champion", I'll leave him and his demon seed for a force even greater. While I'm waiting for that, I have my own job, destroying her kind, exterminating a crossbreed that should never have been created. Before that though, I have to gain redemption from the one who previously humiliated me.'

In the duelling zone, Dakota was out first, now showcasing her extensive Maori tattoos across her arms. 'The following duel is a Grudge Match. Introducing first, from Kaitaia, New Zealand, this is the Time Thief - KAI.' She walked down carefully, watching out as she did, always wary of her surroundings. She had been given the option of having backup from Blair and Rio, but had turned it down, preferring to look after herself like she had become accustomed to. In the zone, she broke into a Maori war chant, getting a huge response from the apparently cultured crowd who appreciated her culture.

Shortly after this war dance finished, Akiza made her entrance, with David and Brooks trailing her, carrying the standard which still had names missing. 'Introducing her opponent, residing in Toronto, Canada, the Black Rose - Akiza Izinski.' Akiza slowly and confidently strode down, paying little attention to anyone as she did, which comically included her totally ignoring her backup. In the zone, she quickly activated her duel disk, but didn't say a word, nor did Dakota.

Grudge Match: Akiza Izinski LP:8000 vs. KAI LP:8000

(Akiza hand: Child's Play, Aroma Jar, Aroma Garden, Aroma Blend, Aromalilith Rosalina)

Akiza: 'I'll start by planting a beautiful Aroma Garden.' As the garden flourished around them, Dakota said nothing, totally focused on her job. 'Now I'll summon out the majestic Aromalilith Rosalina (Atk:0). Rosalina's effect on her arrival summons any non-Tuner Aroma from my deck, so I think I'll call on Aromage Laurel (Atk:800). And now, I think I'll use them both for a Link summon. The scent that is in the air is that of revenge, I won't stop until you have all been eradicated. I Link summon Link 2, Aromaseraphy Jasmine (Atk:1800).'

'Now when Laurel goes to the graveyard, she gives me 500 more Life points (Akiza LP:8000-8500). And this allows Jasmine to add a Plant monster to my hand. I'll get Lonefire Blossom, and then activate Aroma Blend, sending Aroma Jar to place Dried Winds face-up in my Spell and Trap zone. I end my turn right there, and invite you to lose.'

(KAI hand: Time Thief Regulator, Time Thief Bezel Ship, Time Thief Adjuster, The Phantom Knights of Shade Brigandine, Storm Dragon's Return, Time Thief Power Reserve)

KAI: 'I'll draw, and summon Time Thief Regulator (Atk:600, Akiza LP:8500-8800). As I control nothing else, it will vanish and make two new Thieves reveal themselves. Appear, Winder and Temporwhal (Atk:1800,800, Akiza LP:8800-9100). And Winder will add Time Thief Startup. Now Temporwhal's effect tributes itself to banish your Jasmine until the End phase.' The sleek, hoverboard-like Temporwhal opened up a portal using a laser, and crashed into Jasmine, forcing it into the portal. 'Now I'll set this card, and then activate it immediately - the Trap, The Phantom Knights of Shade Brigandine, which summons itself as a monster (Def.:300, Level:4, Akiza LP:9100-9400). That means I can overlay Level 4 Winder and Shade Brigandine, to Xyz summon the ongoing menace - Time Thief Perpeptua (Atk:1900, Akiza LP:9400-9700).'

'Perpeptua, I'll use your effect to detach a material and bring back Temporwhal (Atk:800, Akiza LP:9700-10,000). And as I do that, I can also summon Adjuster from my hand as I just summoned a Time Thief (Atk:1200, Akiza LP:10,000-10,300). Her effect will send Time Thief Flyback to my graveyard. And with two Level 4s on my field, I can overlay again to Xyz summon the recurring terror - Time Thief Redoer (Atk:2400, Akiza LP:10,300-10,600).' With two monsters facing her down, Akiza showed her usual eerie calmness. 'If you think I'm impressed then you're rather incorrect.'

'Well it's a good job I'm not after your credit then. Redoer, attack directly. Perpeptua does the same as well while we're at it, I wouldn't want you running out of time again.' Redoer slugged away with a powerful punch, disappearing as he connected, while Perpeptua launched a single kick that kept connecting over and over again (Akiza LP:10,600-6300). 'I'll use Perpeptua's effect afterwards to attach Time Thief Hack from my deck as material to Redoer (Redoer Materials:2-3). 'I end my turn setting 2.' As she did, Jasmine returned from the portal, which then closed up behind her (Atk:1800).

(Akiza hand: Lonefire Blossom, Miracle Fertlizer)

Akiza: 'I'll draw, then activate the Miracle Fertilizer spell. In exchange for my Normal summon in a turn, I can instead revive a monster from my graveyard. Return, Aromalilith Rosalina (Atk:0). And as you know, she can summon an Aroma from my deck, which will be Laurel again (Atk:800). Now I'll use the effect of Aroma Garden to give myself 500 more Life points, and my monsters 500 Attack.' 'When you do that, I'll use the effect of Redoer, detaching a Monster, Spell and Trap to banish Redoer until the end of your turn, draw a card, and return your Aromaseraphy Jasmine to your Extra deck.'

Akiza barely reacted to her monster and Redoer both vanishing, as she was continuing her plays (Akiza LP:6300-6800). 'I'll use Dried Winds' effect, to destroy Perpeptua.' The saharan winds blew across Dakota's field, choking Perpeptua, ending her cycle quickly. 'Now I can just use Aroma Blend's graveyard effect. I'll banish it, and it allows me to Fusion summon. I'll fuse Rosalina and Laurel to summon Aromalilith Magnolia (Atk:2600). And as I did that, Laurel gives me 500 more Life points (Akiza LP:6800-7300). 'Then the effect of Magnolia gives her the points I just gained (Atk:2600-3100). Now attack her directly.' Akiza's more aggressive approach appeared to be paying off, as Magnolia's two scent plates released a strange mist into the air (KAI LP:8000-4900). 'I end my turn (Atk:3100-2600).' As she did, Redoer appeared from the portal it created, which like before, closed up (Atk:2400).

(KAI hand: Time Thief Bezel Ship, Time Thief Hack, Time Thief Chronocorder)

KAI: 'I'll draw and use Redoer's effect to snatch the top card of your deck.' It was clear she was hoping to snatch a Trap card, but instead it was Aromage Rosemary that was pilfered. 'I'll activate Time Thief Hack, to give my Redoer 300 more Attack for each of its materials. Also, because one of those materials is your card, it can attack directly (Atk:2400-2700). Now attack!' Redoer created a portal again, flying through it, and reappearing behind Akiza, hitting her in the back of the head (Akiza LP:7300-4600). 'I'll set a monster, that's my turn done (Atk:2700-2400).'

(Akiza hand: Lonefire Blossom, Monster Reborn)

Akiza: 'I'll draw, and I think it's about time we turned up the heat on this one.' As she declared this, Redoer snatched another Miracle Fertilizer from the deck. 'I'll summon Lonefire Blossom (Atk:500). And the effect of Lonefire will allow me to tribute it, and summon Aromage Bergamot (Atk:2400). Now I'll activate my Monster Reborn, to summon Lonefire again (Atk:500). And by tributing it, I can summon another Bergamot (Atk:2400).' 'What's your end game here?' 'Simple - using my Aroma Garden, I can gain 500 life points (Akiza LP:4600-5100), and all my monsters gain 500 Attack points. Which triggers my Magnolia, and also both Bergamots will gain 1000 Attack through their effects. Now my board's really in bloom (Magnolia Atk:2600-3600; Bergamot Atk:2400-3900x2).'

'Now Magnolia's other effect. By paying 2000 Life points (Akiza LP:5100-3100), I can banish a card from your field for every Winds on my field. There's only one, but it will get rid of your set monster.' With Bezel Ship falling by the wayside, Akiza lined up. 'Magnolia, attack.' Instinctively, Dakota responded with 'I'll use the effect of Redoer to detach its materials, banishing itself and drawing a card.' 'That means I can redeclare my attack. Attack her directly.' Dakota though, had an answer. 'I activate Time Thief Power Reserve, summoning itself as a monster (Def.:2500, Level:4). And it brings back my Regulator (Def.:200). So I'm not going anywhere.' 'Correction - you're not going anywhere YET. Magnolia, attack.' Magnolia released its powerful mist, which corroded Regulator until it rusted away. 'Bergamot #1, destroy the Power Reserve.' Bergamot's mist was a lot hotter, and it burned straight through the armour-like Power Reserve, leaving Dakota's field empty. And with little more than a hand signal, the second Bergamot unleashed its attack, leaving Dakota's points in pieces (KAI LP:4900-1400). 'I end my turn (Bergamot Atk:3900-2400x2, Magnolia Atk:3600-2600, Redoer Atk:2400).

(KAI hand: Time Thief Chronocorder, Time Thief Retrograde)

KAI: 'I'll draw, and during the Standby phase, I'll use the effect of Redoer to snatch the top card of your deck.' The card turned out to be Violet Witch, and Akiza was clearly somewhat unhappy at seeing it stolen away (Materials:0-1). 'Now I'll use Hack's effect, giving Redoer 300 more Attack and the ability to attack directly (Atk:2400-2700). Attack her!' Redoer once again vanished, but this time Akiza guarded against the attack, being able to anticipate it (Akiza LP:5100-2400). 'I'll summon Time Thief Chronocorder (Atk:1000), and end my turn.'

(Akiza hand: Lava Golem)

Akiza: 'I draw. I hope you're not too attached to your monsters, because I'll tribute them both for my Lava Golem (Atk:3000). Now I'll use the effect of Aroma Garden (Akiza LP:2400-2700, Bergamot Atk:2400-3900x2, Magnolia Atk:2600-3600). Now the two Bergamots can attack.' Akiza's monsters launched a dual scented assault, with one of them making Lava Golem vanish in the winds as embers, and the other one completed the job (KAI LP:1400-0).

The moment the duel ended, the same attacker from earlier came rushing out in a balaclava, attacking Dakota with their weapon of choice. This inevitably encouraged Blair and Rio to come back out to get another piece of them, this time armed with metal poles, determined to identify the attacker. Seeing them coming though, the attacker waited, and then turned around at the last moment, blasted them with a canister of tear gas, blinding them and causing absolute chaos, as Blair took a swing, but hit Rio in the jaw, with her responding by elbowing Blair in the face. Taking advantage, and seemingly unaffected by the gas, the mysterious individual kicked Blair's knee out from under her leg. With her vulnerable, Akiza grabbed her arm, and the attacker pulled out a lump hammer, and without hesitation, brought it crashing down with force onto Blair's wrist, as she gritted her teeth.

Akiza stood proudly after this, but not for long, as Maddy came flying out of the gas, eyes glowing, and speared her, standing tall and then grabbing a microphone as the gas started to be cleared. 'Oi you, in your stupid balaclava. I see you, ambushing us, kiss chase, run away, survive for another day. Well I'm not stupid and I sure as hell don't back down, so you want me? Come get me!' The mystery individual went to square up to Maddy, but then palmed her off and walked out, much to her anger.

Backstage

As Maddy returned, a doctor was checking over Blair's hand. 'There's at least three broken bones in your wrist from a quick examination. There shouldn't be any long-term damage, but you're going to need to go to hospital in order to get it properly checked out.' The response was clear though. 'Fine, but I'm getting through this title defence first. No way am I risking these because of a few little broken bones.' The medic seemed far from impressed at the idea, until Rio had a sudden brainwave. 'B, can you duel through the pain?' 'Oh easily, I've duelled through worse. Pain's not a huge issue to me.' Rio then turned to the medic. 'Right, this might sound insane, but do you have any duct tape and some newspapers?' Confused, the medic nodded. 'There's a supply cupboard not far from here.' 'Get me that stuff then so I can make a splint.'

The bemused man walked off at a modest speed, returning shortly after with what Rio had requested. Working neatly, she wrapped the newspaper around the broken wrist, sheet by sheet, taping it as she went, until it was extending down to her hand. She then withdrew a small pair of scissors from her bag, cutting a portion out to insert it over her friend's thumb to hold it. 'How's that for tightness?' After flexing her hand, Blair responded with 'A little loose. Where'd you learn to do that Ri?'

'It's an old thing I picked up ages ago. It's funny what you learn when you're on your own and in and out of hospital half your life.' 'Might have to try it myself' Maddy joked in response, but she quickly backtracked when Rio glared at her. 'Ok, maybe my timing still doesn't really work.' Blair quickly restored the atmosphere with a sassy 'Well it wouldn't be Maddy if she didn't say something stupid in front of strangers would it now?', which was enough to make Rio laugh. 'You shouldn't give me the giggles while I'm sorting this B, it's serious business. How's that now?' After flexing her hand slightly, Blair responded with 'Perfect.' With that sorted, Blair stood as if to leave, but Rio then had a thought about the attack, and came to a conclusion.

'I think the attacker's Shannon.' 'Shannon?' After a few moments' thought, Blair realised who she was talking about. 'Oh… that Shannon. It can't be.' 'Think about it, she's got a grudge against us, there's the Barian connection with Nash, and have you noticed that the attacker never touches Maddy? Shannon's whole thing was saving Maddy.' 'I mean your logic's good, but the attacker's way too tall, even in her Barian form she's about five inches short I'd say. Either way, we need to work this out.' 'We're working this out though, not Maddy, she's got enough stress on at the moment.' 'Agreed.'

In the duelling zone

Belle was out first for the next duel, but she wasn't on her own, as she had her partner alongside her. 'The following contest is a Top Contender's Duel to determine the next challenge to the WDC Young-Gun Championship. Introducing first, representing the WDC's Dynasty, from Headingley, Leeds, England, the Myth - Belle Draper.' While they walked down, a video was shown from a World Championship hype conference (promoting the possible locations of the event) which Maddy was attending, when she was confronted by Justin, who insulted her before challenging her for the belt. This was followed by a social media post from Declan, proposing Justin taking on Belle to determine the next challenger. In the zone, Belle raised the symbol of excellence, while Freja posed next to her.

Shortly after, Justin's music started, but got cut off almost immediately, as he was continuing on his quest to prove his gender beliefs. 'Being a player is not easy, not everyone has it in them. But I believe, here in Munich, that someone has that potential! Step 4, be a leader of men. It's not enough to just live in the shadows looking at your prey, this… inferior species. You need to act, show everyone the way, the Betas should be looking up at you, not the other way round. Don't let yourself be overshadowed and someone else take your place, be the Alpha figure and guide your lost lambs'

This was enough for Freja, who grabbed the microphone off Justin. 'Look, just shut up, we get the message, you're a sexist pig who' Before she could say anymore though, Belle took another microphone. 'Stop.' She walked over, and patted Freja on the arm. 'Cool your fire Freja.' As Freja stepped back, Belle approached Justin. 'I'm the Alpha, not you. So you're going to shut up and duel. Otherwise, I'll kill you' she said joyfully, before whispering down his ear 'I've done it before.' This stunned Justin into silence, as Belle pressed the button to activate his duel disk.

Top Contender's Duel for the WDC Young-Gun Championship: Belle Draper LP:8000 vs. Justin Pipe LP:8000

(Belle hand: Qliphort Cephalopod, Qliphort Carrier, Qliphort Helix, Re-qliate, Skill Drain)

Turn 1: Belle: 'I'll open by setting Pendulum Scales with Scale 1 Qliphort Carrier and Scale 9 Qliphort Helix. Then I'll Normal summon Qliphort Cephalopod through its effect, by reducing its Original Attack to 1800 (Atk:2800-1800). But the effect of Carrier in my Pendulum zone will give it 300 extra points (Atk:1800-2100). I'll set two and end my turn.'

(Justin hand: Gravekeeper's Guard, Gravekeeper's Commandant, Gravekeeper's Stele, Rite of Spirit, Gravekeeper's Spiritualist, Necrovalley)

Justin: 'It's time for you to see what you really need. I summon Gravekeeper's Spiritualist (Atk:1700).' 'I activate Re-qliate. This will negate the effects of any Level 4 or below monster you happen to Normal summon. Also don't forget, Qliphort Helix saps your monster by 300 (Atk:1700-1400).' Now unable to beat over Belle's monster, Justin resorted immediately to insulting his opponent. 'You don't need to hide like this, I can help you, protect you.' 'If I were you I'd be more concerned about protecting myself, you know this is what that girl was doing right before… well, you know.' This clearly rattled Justin, who activated his Necrovalley (Spiritualist Atk:1400-1900), and ended his turn.

(Belle hand: Qlimate Change)

Belle: 'I'll draw and attack your monster with Cephalopod.' The dangerous and cruel Cephalopod shone a harsh red light on Spiritualist, which started hoovering it up piece by piece (Justin LP:8000-7800). 'I end my turn.'

(Justin hand: Gravekeeper's Guard, Gravekeeper's Commandant, Gravekeeper's Stele, Rite of Spirit, Gravekeeper's Spy)

Justin: 'I draw. I'll set a monster, set two cards face-down and pass.'

(Belle hand: Qlimate Change, Burden of the Mighty)

Belle: 'I'll draw and activate Burden of the Mighty. Now all of your monsters will lose Attack and Defence equal to their Level x100. Cephalopod, attack.' Belle's monster hovered in over Gravekeeper's Guard (Def.:1900-2400-2000), destroying it. 'When Guard is flipped up, your monster returns to your hand.' 'That's fine, I'll Normal summon it again straight after (Atk:1800-2100). I end my turn.'

(Justin hand: Gravekeeper's Commandant, Gravekeeper's Spy, Necrovalley Temple)

Justin: 'I'll set another monster, set another face-down and pass.'

(Belle hand: Qlimate Change, Rod of the Mind's Eye)

Belle: 'I'll draw, and attack your monster.' 'I activate my face-down Necrovalley Temple, to reduce the Attack of your monster by 500 when I control a face-up Gravekeeper.' Cephalopod shone its light down on Gravekeeper's Spy (Def.:2100-2200; Cephalopod Atk:2100-1600), resulting in Belle taking the damage (Belle LP:8000-7400). 'When Spy's flipped up, I can summon a Gravekeeper from my deck with no more than 1500 Attack. I'll welcome out Gravekeeper's Curse (Atk:800). And when I do, you take 500 damage (Belle LP:7400-6900).

At this moment, the scrappy contest was interrupted by Freja rushing out, and as her tag partner looked around, punched Belle in the face, before disappearing off again immediately, to the great confusion of the fans, and of Justin, who just walked off. Belle didn't seem angry though, albeit she could be visibly seen saying "What more do I have to do for you?", and she took a moment, before also leaving.

Backstage, Freja ran to the toilets, nobody bothering to try and stop her. As she dived into a cubicle, she started to de-morph, and took a breath. That was, until she heard a sudden thumping noise next to her. Still in the process of turning back into her actual identity, Lydia didn't think to work out who it was. That was, until she looked up a few seconds later, and saw her sister sat on the divide between the cubicles, waving down to her. This lead to an honest conversation between them.

'Get down from there!' 'Nope.' 'Freja, I said' 'I know what you said, I'm not deaf.' 'And?' 'I'm not getting down until you stop instructing me. I'm not just your little minion.' 'Come on Freja, for god's sake.' 'Nope. Besides, I'm the judge, so I get the big chair.' 'It's not a chair Fre, it's' 'Whatever I say it is. I'm speaking, you listen. Right, first of all… actually no, I know EXACTLY why you're doing this. I want to know why you… sorry, I know full well why you didn't talk to me about it, it's because I would have said no… aha! I know, first question - why didn't what I said to you the other day mean anything?'

'Huh?' 'You know, when I told Belle and you that I was done being a pushover, or… whatever it was I said, look I'd come out of the dark bath a few hours before, my memory's kind of not good. You know what I said anyway, so why didn't it mean anything?' 'Fre, you know it did' 'Clearly not after that.' 'I was trying to prove that Belle doesn't care about you, and the moment something went wrong, she'd instantly turn against you.' Freja then forwarded a text to Lydia, from Belle stating "I know that was Lydia, when you see her, tell her I don't want to be in competition to her, I just want to be close with you, sister or no sister.'

Using this as evidence, Freja stared at her sister. 'See, she's not trying to stop you being my sister. I can have other people in my life, but you can't accept that.' 'Because you're not making the decisions, he is.' 'One decision, yeah. I've explained this before, but when I'm obeying him, I feel complete, like I'm worth something. And Belle feels the same, because she told me. But staying close to Belle, that's my decision. Because I want to be close to her. Because she does something nobody else ever has done - she treats me like an adult. Not some silly teenager, not the baby sister, an actual functioning adult.'

'Wow…' 'I know you want to protect me, you think it's "your job", but it really isn't. You can't see how hard I've worked in the past couple of months, getting a "proper" job' 'Phil gave you that to stop you misbehaving.' 'I've been getting my life together is the point, I just want to be respected by you, because I want to prove to you that you don't need to babysit me anymore. I'm just so tired of constantly fighting you. Why can't you see that I'm not the same person who tried to kidnap Blair and Jade? I've grown up, I'm trying so hard to prove it. You're my sister, I don't want to lose you, but if I have to choose between you and Belle, right now I don't know that I'm choosing you. I'm an adult now Lyds, deal with it.'

In the duelling zone

The next duel had Rodney and Andrew Brown marching out together, with Caprice pointing the way for them. 'The following duel is scheduled for the WDC Tag-Team Championships. Introducing the challengers, from Lexington, Kentucky, Rodney and Andrew, the Brown Brothers.' While they walked down, Caprice was busy posing for the fans. But her posing didn't last long, as Rio's music played.

It soon faded out though, and their tag music played as Rio and Blair walked out together, Blair sporting the handmade cast made for her. But before they could even be introduced, they had a shock for their opponents, as Blair was about to announce. 'A broken arm never hurt anyone… well maybe slightly, but anyway, I just wanted to check you got the memo regarding the stipulation for this duel. Because the Dynasty are all about earning your shot, and since you didn't do that, we thought there needed to be some jeopardy for you. So with that said, if you lose to us here, then you're barred from duelling for the WDC for 10 years. Plenty of time for you to regret crossing us.'

Hearing this, the challengers suddenly didn't seem as up for the fight, and instead turned to leave, only for Caprice to start screaming at them. 'YOU'RE GOING NOWHERE, I HIRED YOU TO EMBARRASS HER AND YOU'RE GOING TO DO THAT! I WANT THOSE BELTS! NOW GO AND DO IT OR I'M GOING TO REVEAL ALL YOUR GRUBBY LITTLE SECRETS.' The brothers looked at each other, and nervously stepped up to the plate.

WDC Tag-Team Championships: Brown Brothers (Rodney Brown/Andrew Brown) LP:8000 vs. [c] Frozen Diamonds (Blair Flannigan/Rio Kastle) LP:8000

(Blair hand: Shaddoll Squamata, Shaddoll Fusion, Nehshaddoll Genius, El Shaddoll Fusion, Marriage at Burial)

Blair: 'I'll open with Shaddoll Fusion, combining Shaddoll Squamata and Nehshaddoll Genius to Fusion summon El Shaddoll Shekhinaga (Def.:3000). Then I'll activate Marriage at Burial, fusing together those same monsters in my graveyard for the puppet that will leave your field all tied up, El Shaddoll Winda (Atk:2200). I end my turn. Now would you like a little explanation on Winda, or does Caprice have spell it out for you? Because it's clear she's the only brains of the outfit.'

(Rodney hand: Arnis, the Empowered Warrior, Dragonox, the Empowered Warrior, Reinforcement of the Army, Empowerment, Dragonox, the Empowered Warrior, The Warrior Returning Alive)

Rodney: 'I'll draw, set this and pass. Let's see the little weakling have a go. Unless you're planning on collapsing, that is. By my estimation you don't have long left.'

(Rio hand: Lyrilusc - Beryl Canary, Lyrilusc - Sapphire Swallow, Lyrilusc - Turquoise Warbler, Summon Storm, Lyrilusc - Beryl Canary, Unstable Evolution)

Rio: 'Actually I'm in the prime of my life I'll have you know, and with this hand, I suggest you get the timers out. I'll activate the effect of Lyrilusc - Turquoise Warbler, summoning itself and Beryl Canary (Atk:100, 0). Then I'll use Summon Storm, paying 800 Life points (Frozen Diamonds LP:8000-7200), and summon Beryl Canary (Atk:0). And I Normal summon Sapphire Swallow (Atk:100). Now I'll overlay all four for Lyrilusc - Assembled Nightingale, who gets 200 Attack per material. Each Canary is another 200 by the way (Atk:1200). And I'll activate my Unstable Evolution.'

This equip card caused the Nightingale to start shuddering, before screaming as it's power increased and it started to grow claws out of its wings. 'I'll leave Blair to explain the nerdy stuff about how this works.' 'Right, so Unstable Evolution sets the Attack of Assembled to 2400 because our LIfe points are lower. After that, the other boosts on Nightingale are recalculated based on the new Original Attack. Which means the Attack is Caprice?' '3600' was the instant reply, the South African clearly equally as aware as Blair around how the stats worked out (Atk:3600). 'Attack them directly with Storm Rush!' The twisted Nightingale fired off claws and sharp feathers at incredible speed, annihilating her opponents in mere seconds (Brown Brothers LP:8000-0).

As the duel concluded, Rio took the titles and raised them, but the Browns losing their livelihoods was overshadowed by Blair and Caprice getting nose-to-nose. And even though there were no microphones involved, the intimate venue allowed every word to be heard. 'Stop hiring minions to do your dirty work Caprice, we all know that you could do a much better job. People might not see through the blonde act but I do.' 'Typical Blair, you realise you're not the only person with a brain in the world don't you? Funny that you have an issue with my ego. I don't want your titles, I just want to embarrass you. And me beating you wouldn't be embarrassing, you know how good I am. I'm done living in your shadow.'

'MY shadow? All I've ever heard since I turned pro is "when's Caprice turning pro", "How long until Caprice joins you", "Oh do you think Caprice will debut and win Worlds immediately?", nothing about how good I am, which by the way, I'm better than you are and you know it, everything has always been about my opinion on you, I'm not just your little groupie, I'm not just your little adoring fan, I'm here to be top dog, and if you want that, then you're going to have to go through me. Of course if you're scared, you can just go and lose to Maddy instead, I totally get it.'

Caprice laughed. 'Scared? No no no, I don't do scared. I'm going after Maddy because I want that title, I want the stature of ending the longest ever reign with that title, and I want the credit of destroying the Queen of the Renegades so badly that she disappeared for months and months. Because I'm telling you, if she takes time off after that, nobody's going to remember the injuries, the illnesses, they're just going to remember the plan that I made, I constructed, and the champion that I conquered. Maybe AFTER that, I'll take the WDC Championship, and THEN go after you. Because I may delay a challenge, but I never, and I mean ever, back down from it.' A tense stare-off followed, before Blair walked away, raising the red right hand as she did so, Rio following with the belts.

Backstage, Myka was waiting for an interview. 'Myka Grainger, the World Amateur Champion, waiting for a WDC Young-Gun Championship opportunity against Chazz Princeton and Maddy Smith, are you intimidated by the opportunity?' 'Intimidated? Never. Look here Maddy, I know we're supposed to be "related" or some shit like that, but let me make one thing clear - I don't need you. I never needed you at any point in my life, and I sure as hell don't need you now.' 'So there's no chance of an alliance?'

'I'll ally with whoever I need to. But when it comes down to push and shove, my only loyalties are to myself, and to that title. Because I will beat, savage, kill, if it means claiming the glory and prestige, because I need that more than anyone would ever know. I will be the WDC Young-Gun Champion, and nobody, and I say nobody, will stop me. Watch out, there's a Storm coming through.' The LFD logo then appeared on the screens before the next duel.

Chazz was out first, with his valets. 'The following duel is for the WDC Young-Gun Championship, to be held under three-way dance rules. Introducing first, the challengers, first of all from San Francisco, California, the former three-time LFD Atlas Champion, the Thousand Thunders - Chazz Princeton.' Chazz and his ladies of the night marched onwards, as his music blared out, and career highlights played for him.

Before he reached the zone though, Myka rushed out to her music, her game face clearly on. 'Introducing the other challenger, from Haines Junction, Yukon, Canada, former two time IADL Amateur Champion, the Storm - Myka Grainger.' Myka's entrance was fierce with electric blue lighting and pulses of electricity meeting the beat of her music, while her dispatching Tee was shown. In the zone, she growled, and threw off her blue and red tiger-striped jacket, before declaring 'Storm Myka has just hit shore!' The challengers then squared off.

As they waited, Maddy's music hit, and the champion emerged, dressed as Freddy Krueger, complete with a devilish hand. 'Introducing their opponent, representing the Renegade Nation, from Renegades HQ, North Shields, England, she is the reigning and defending WDC Young-Gun Champion, Don Alpha - Maddy Smith.' As she walked down with Jana by her side, the commentators discussed her miracle reign.

"Discussing Maddy Smith's title reign is a recurring part of the WDC show at this point, as her enormous title reign continues. It was 230 days ago when she claimed the belt from Spica, and since then she has defended it 23 times professionally, and her total title defences exceed 50. Still only 18, she's developed a reputation as one of the most aggressive competitors in the professional ranks, slaying opponents left and right in double quick time, taking no prisoners in the process. One thing's for certain; this beast is always ready to feast.'

In the zone, three faced off, and Maddy raised her title in her blackened hand to a mixed reaction in enemy territory, with Myka getting cheered more. The crowd were electric though as the three withdrew, and Maddy took off her jacket and hat, as well as her fake hand to reveal the freshly applied red and black nail polish. Myka then squared up to her again, and flashed her eyes at Maddy, who responded with 'Cute', before flashing her own gold, then red, slightly intimidating her half-sister, and encouraging her to start the duel.

WDC Young-Gun Championship: Chazz Princeton LP:8000 vs. Myka Grainger LP:8000 vs. [c] Maddy Smith LP:8000

(Chazz hand: Armed Dragon Thunder LV5, Armed Dragon Flash, Armed Dragon Thunder LV7, Armed Dragon LV10 White, Armed Dragon Lightning)

Chazz: 'It's time to take the glory. I activate Armed Dragon Flash, to summon Armed Dragon Thunder LV3 (Atk:1200). Then I'll use it to discard LV7, and summon Armed Dragon Thunder LV5 (Atk:2400). The effect of LV7 in my grave will add Armed Dragon Thunder LV3 to my hand. Now Thunder LV5 will send LV3 to my graveyard and summon Armed Dragon Thunder LV7 (Atk:2800). And LV3's effect draws another card from my deck.'

The card produced another grin from the cocky challenger. 'LV7 sends Tempest, Dragon Ruler of Storms from my deck to the graveyard and summons Armed Dragon Thunder LV10 (Atk:3000). But if you think I'm done, you're sadly mistaken, as I can use Armed Dragon Lightning, which once a turn gives my monster 100 more Attack per Level (Atk:3000-4000). I end my turn and let you two weirdos have a go.'

(Myka hand: Kozmo Wickedwitch, Kozmo Goodwitch, Kozmotown, Kozmo Forerunner, Kozmo Dark Lady, Dragon Capture Jar)

Myka: 'I'll tell you what's wierd - someone from San Fran having a Brooklyn accent. I draw. I'll summon Kozmo Goodwitch (Atk:1800). And I'll trigger her effect, flipping your Dragon face-down. Then I'll end my turn with a face-down.'

(Maddy hand: Frightfur Factory, Fluffal Mouse, Fluffal Angel, Kahyoreigetsu, Gem-Knight Quartz, Toy Parade)

Maddy: 'I draw. I'll activate the effect of Gem-Knight Quartz in my hand, sending it to the graveyard and setting Future Fusion from my deck.' The move made Myka side-eye her half-sister. 'I see your game, very clever. I'd much rather be facing Blair right now, she might be a challenge.' 'Why don't you say that to my face instead of to me side' the ever combative champion responded. So, not waiting for permission, Myka got right into Maddy's face, and stated 'You're weak, and don't deserve to call yourself an Alpha.'

Before the situation could kick off, security ran in to seperate the femmes fatales, as the referee made an announcement. 'Myka Grainger, this is your one and only warning, intruding into another competitor's zone is illegal. Doing so again will result in an immediate disqualification.' As the crowd groaned, Maddy flipped the middle finger at Myka, before confidently stating 'Your mother is a slut! Just because she banged my Dad doesn't make you part of our tribe.' This almost resulted in a fight, security stopping Myka seconds before she would have been disqualified. 'I'll set a monster and throw it back to Chazz.'

(Chazz hand: Armed Dragon LV10 White, Armed Dragon LV10)

Chazz: 'I draw' 'And I'll activate Dragon Capture Jar. This forces all Dragons into Defence and more importantly, you can't change their battle positions. So your big boy is all tied up.' With no plays to make, Chazz decided to try and intimidate his opposition. 'You're both just scared of me. You wouldn't be using cheap tactics like this if you thought you could win, you know that I've got more talent in this pinky than you have in your combined bodies!' Maddy wasn't having any of this though.

'Chazz, you realise you've spent the past month running away from Blair to the point where you refused to turn up to your own national championships just because she was there? Not to mention you had to CHEAT just to beat Denzil, who has like 4 professional duels under his belt. I know you're delusional, but come on now.' 'I have no idea what you're talking about' Chazz responded. 'Face it, you're actually not that good.' 'You really think you could use my deck to my level of skill?' 'Quite frankly, a blind monkey could play your deck.' As the crowd applauded the insult, Myka took her turn.

(Myka hand: Kozmoll Wickedwitch, Kozmotown, Kozmo Forerunner, Kozmo Dark Lady, Kozmo Dark Destroyer)

Myka: 'I draw. I summon Kozmoll Wickedwitch (Atk:1900), and I'll then use Goodwitch to attack Maddy's set monster.' Goodwitch flew over Maddy's monster (Fluffal Angel Def.:1200), and sprinkled fairy dust over it, causing it to choke and perish. 'Wickedwitch, attack directly.' Wickedwitch spun up her red light-constructed scythe, and swung it at Maddy, who at the same moment felt a sharp pain in her gut, causing her to gasp for breath (Maddy LP:8000-6100). Still angered from earlier though, Myka had more up her sleeve.

'I'm not done, bitch. I'll use Goodwitch's effect to banish herself for Kozmo Forerunner (Atk:2800), and Wickedwitch banishes herself for Kozmo Dark Destroyer (Atk:3000). And they're both coming straight for you, maybe next time you'll think twice about insulting my mother!' Both monsters launched fierce laser attacks, as Maddy doubled over her duel disk, having blacked out before the attack (Maddy LP:6100-300). 'I end my turn.'

Backstage

Blair and Dakota were watching the duel intently, while Rio messed around with a bottle of water in the background. 'Those insults really aren't like Maddy, I don't know what's got into her in the past few weeks, but she's not acting like herself.' 'How come' Dakota asked, clearly having not noticed. 'The deep catty insults aren't like her, she's been passing more and more work onto other people at the base where previously you'd have to fight her tooth and nail to take the responsibility, and she's stopped eating properly, two meals a day isn't Maddy. And now all of this.'

Suddenly, Rio rushed past them. 'Ri, what are you doing?' 'I'm not just gonna watch Maddy fade out there, I'm doing something about it. Isn't that what medics are supposed to do?' 'I mean I guess, but what are you' 'Just trust me, I know what I'm doing here.' 'Which is?' 'Water and painkillers. They can't stop her having the painkillers if they can't see them.' Before anyone could say anything, she rushed out to the field, and spoke with the referee.

'Maddy Smith is requesting a medical time out' came the announcement, much to the surprise of Maddy, but Rio quickly whispered in her ear. 'There's paracetamol in here, should hold off the pain for a while. You just black out or what?' 'Dunno, just kind of light headed?' 'We'll talk more about it after. Just drink all of this so they don't test it, k?' She nodded, and downed the water in one huge gulp, while Rio did a brief physical check on her, before giving a thumbs up, and taking the bottle back.

(Maddy hand: Frightfur Factory, Fluffal Mouse, Kahyoreigetsu, Toy Parade, Beast King Barbaros)

Maddy: 'I draw. I'll activate Kahyoreigetsu!' Immediately, Chazz got to the accusing. 'Did that twerp just slip you a card?' 'No, she slipped it me on the plane actually. She's not bad is she? Anyway, I'll use it to summon a Level 4 or below monster from my hand which is a Fairy, Winged Beast, Beast Warrior or Spellcaster. I summon Fluffal Mouse (Atk:100). And because mice like to swarm, when I have one Mouse, it can multiply to three mice (Atk:100x2). Now I'll tribute all three of them, so I can summon the Beast King Barbaros (Atk:3000).'

'Barbaros' effect when summoned with three tributes destroys every card on your fields.' Both her opponents stared in shock as the supercharged Barbaros unleashed blasts of electricity which rained down on the field, destroying everything. Luckily for Myka, she had some defence. 'I'll use the effects of my two ships to banish them and summon lower-levelled monsters from my deck. I summon Kozmo Sliprider and Kozmo Landwalker (Def.:800; 1200). And Sliprider can destroy any Spell or Trap on the field… who am I kidding, I'm getting rid of Armed Dragon Lightning.'

While Sliprider fired through the Spell card, Maddy made an attack. 'Barbaros will attack Landwalker.' The Beast King's spear rotated towards Landwalker, which picked up Sliprider with one of its legs and put it in harm's way. 'Landwalker allows me to destroy another card on my field if a Kozmo would be destroyed. Sorry not sorry. And to boot, Sliprider summons Kozmo Farmgirl (Atk:1500).' 'I'm going to enjoy tearing her limb from limb before the end of this. I end my turn.'

(Chazz hand: Armed Dragon LV10 White, Armed Dragon LV10, Anti-Spell Fragrance)

Chazz: 'I draw. I'll set a card, then banish Armed Dragon LV10 from my hand to summon Armed Dragon LV10 White, the freshest Dragon on the block (Atk:3000).' This clearly didn't impress Myka much though. 'Wow, it got a new paint job, awesome job.' Somewhat irked by the response, Chazz went on the offensive against her. 'LV10 White, attack Kozmo Landwalker. What you gonna do when Chazzamania runs wild on Landwalker?'

'Not go back to the 80s?' Myka responded in a typically brash and catty manner. 'What I'm actually going to do is banish Farmgirl to summon Kozmo Dark Destroyer (Atk:3000). And it destroys your Dragon.' 'Yeah, well when LV10 White attacks, it can destroy a monster on the field, so I'll have it destroy your Dark Destroyer.' This scuffle resulted in the mutual destruction of both monsters, all while Maddy watched on knowing that it was the only thing keeping her mammoth title reign alive. 'Dark Destroyer effect, I'll summon another Forerunner (Def.:1400).' 'I end my turn, you're not worth it anyway.'

(Myka hand: Kozmotown, Kozmo Dark Lady, Kozmo Dark Eclipser)

Myka: 'I draw, then I'll get 1000 more Life from Forerunner (Myka LP:8000-9000).' 'And I'll activate a tricky Trap known as Anti-Spell Fragrance. Now all of us have to set Spell cards and wait until our next turn before activating them.' With her plan scuppered, Myka came up with an adaptation. 'I'll set this in my Field spell zone and end my turn.'

(Maddy hand: Frightfur Factory, Toy Parade, Xing Zhen Hu)

Maddy: 'I draw, I'll set two and attack Chazz.' Barbaros came in and quickly demolished Chazz's points with its spear (Chazz LP:8000-5000). 'Now I'll pass.'

(Chazz hand: Keeper of the Shrine)

Chazz: 'I'll draw, I'll set a monster.'

(Myka hand: Kozmo Dark Lady, Kozmo Dark Eclipser, Kozmo Lightsword)

Myka: 'I draw (Myka LP:9000-10,000)' 'And I activate Xing Zhen Hu. This allows me to freeze your Field spell, stopping you from flipping it up while I control this Trap. Not just a pretty face see, I've got some brains.' Even Myka had to begrudgingly admit this. 'Not bad at all. I'll use Landwalker to attack your monster.' Landwalker raised one of its legs, and dropped it down with the full force of gravity onto Keeper of the Shrine, destroying it. 'Now I'll attack you directly with Forerunner.' The Forerunner came floating in, firing a single beam as it did (Chazz LP:5000-3200). 'I end my turn.'

(Maddy hand: Frightfur Factory, Fluffal Owl)

Maddy: 'I draw. I'll go straight to battle, attacking Chazz directly.' Chazz could do nothing but take the attack, as he dropped critically low (Chazz LP:3200-200). 'I end my turn.'

(Chazz hand: Monster Reborn)

Chazz: 'I draw. And I'll activate my Monster Reborn, bet you didn't see that coming.' 'Yeah, 'cause we're not old' Myka responded, annoying him further. 'Soon you kids are going to be back in the kindergarten pen. I'll bring back Armed Dragon Thunder LV10 (Atk:3000).' He teased going for an attack, getting Myka's back up, but never actually had any intention of doing so. 'I end my turn.'

(Myka hand: Kozmo Dark Lady, Kozmo Dark Eclipser, Kozmo Lightsword, Kuji-Kiri Curse)

Myka: 'I draw (Myka LP:10,000-11,000). I'll activate this Kuji-Kiri Curse. This sends the Level 9 Dark Eclipser to my graveyard and draws me two cards in response. I'll set them both and pass.'

(Maddy hand: Frightfur Factory, Fluffal Owl, Graceful Charity)

Maddy: 'I draw. I'll activate Graceful Charity, drawing three then discarding two.' The cards she drew suddenly gave Maddy an absolutely ingenious plan. 'Tell me "sis"' 'Never call me that again.' 'Ok, sorry Mika.' 'IT'S MYKA!' she growled as some of the crowd started to giggle. Even Chazz found it somewhat entertaining. 'What's better than locking down your Field spell? Why stealing it of course. I activate Land Flipping!' The response was two totally blank faces looking back at her.

'How this card works is that I get to banish your Kozmotown, then it gets activated again, but on my field. So now you can't destroy it with your Landwalker, because yeah, I was watching your last duel. Now Barbaros can attack Landwalker.' Without her Field spell, Myka no longer saw the value in keeping her Landwalker, which got a spear right through its main body (Myka LP:11,000-10,400). 'With its floating effect, Landwalker summons Kozmo Sliprider (Atk:2300), destroying Chazz's Anti-Spell.' 'I end my turn with a couple of face-downs.'

(Chazz hand: Armed Dragon Blitz)

Chazz: 'I draw. I'll activated Armed Dragon Blitz, allowing me to summon a second Armed Dragon LV10 (Atk:3000).' 'Now you've revealed your move, I activate Chimera Fusion. This will fuse together the Barbaros on my field with the Fluffal Owl and Edge Imp Chain in my hand to Fusion summon Guardian Chimera (Atk:3300). When it's summoned, I can destroy cards on the field equal to the monsters on the field that were materials. Then for every monster used from my hand, I draw a new card.'

Chimera roared, and one of its three heads shot out of its body revealing it being kept together by chains, destroying Armed Dragon Thunder LV10 before Maddy got two fresh cards. 'I'll attack Kozmo Forerunner with Armed Dragon LV10. Armed Punisher.' The drills all across the hands of the Dragon spun up to high speed, and pierced Forerunner, creating a horrid screeching sound that sent the two Wolfbloods covering their ears (Myka LP:10,400-10,200). 'When destroyed, Forerunner will float into… Kozmo DOG Fighter I guess (Atk:2000).' 'I end my turn.'

(Myka hand: Kozmo Dark Lady, Kozmo Lightsword, Kozmo Dark Planet, Emergency Teleport, Past Image)

Myka: 'I draw. During my Standby phase, I can summon a DOG Fighter Token (Def.:2400). I'll activate Emergency Teleport, to summon Kozmo Scaredy Lion (Def.:500). And with its effect, I can add back three banished Kozmos to my hand - Kozmo Dark Destroyer, Kozmo Dark Destroyer, and Kozmo Landwalker, then you take 500 damage Maddy. Let this prove who's really top dog.' The Lion shot claws out of its paws after returning the monsters, headed straight for Maddy. 'Go - Damage Translation! (Maddy LP:300-50).

'I swear you're less like a Wolf and more like a Cockroach!' Grinning, she responded with 'Well you might have a point. 'Cause cockroaches just don't fuckin' die, and you can't get rid of me!' 'Fine, I'll tribute my DOG Fighter Token to Tribute summon Kozmoll Dark Lady (Atk:2200). Then I'll use the effect of Scaredy Lion to banish itself and summon Kozmo Dark Destroyer (Atk:3000). Dark Destroyer, do your thing and get rid of Guardian Chimera.'

'Don't even bother, you can't target Chimera with card effects because one of the cards I dumped with Graceful was Polymerisation. But you activated Dark Destroyer now, so go on.' 'Sure, I'll take out his Dragon.' This move left Chazz totally exposed, and Myka wasted no more time. 'Dark Destroyer, attack Chazz directly.' The laser blasts flew in with renewed vigour, taking Chazz out for the count (Chazz LP:200-0).

The company favourite being eliminated resulted in Myka being very heavily booed, not that she appeared to care. 'Boo all you like, I'll remember that when I'm going home with the gold. Now to take out the trash. I'll end my turn.'

(Maddy hand: Frightfur Factory, Fluffal Owl, Edge Imp Sabres)

Maddy: 'I draw, and I'll attack Dark Lady with Guardian Chimera.' The damage from this attack may have looked inconsequential at first (Myka LP:10,200-8900), but the removal of Dark Lady's monster-negating qualities was more important. 'Now I'll activate Frightfur Factory. By banishing Chimera Fusion from my graveyard, this allows me to fuse Edge Imp Sabres and Fluffal Owl to summon Frightfur Cruel Whale (Atk:2600). Cruel Whale will allow me to destroy a card on each field, so I'm going to choose Frightfur Factory and DOG Fighter.' Cruel Whale opened up the mouth on its stomach, releasing a pair of scissors which spun up and sliced through DOG Fighter and Factory. 'DOG Fighter will float into Kozmo Farmgirl (Atk:1500).' 'That's fine, I'll just end my turn.'

(Myka hand: Kozmo Lightsword, Kozmo Dark Planet, Past Image, Kozmo Delta Shuttle)

Myka: 'I draw, and I'll tag out Farmgirl to summon Delta Shuttle (Def.:1200). With Delta Shuttle, I'll send Kozmo Dark Eclipser to the graveyard, and lower the Attack of your Whale by 900.' 'Not before I use the effect of Cruel Whale, sending Frightfur Sheep from my Extra deck (Atk:2600-3900-3000).' This put Myka in a tight position, forcing her to make a sacrifice. 'I'll attack Cruel Whale with Dark Destroyer.' The Destroyer came in on a kamikaze mission, smashing into Maddy's monster at high speed and exploding on contact. 'Dark Destroyer floats into… god not got much left… another Landwalker (Def.:1200). I end my turn.'

(Maddy hand: Field Barrier)

Maddy: 'I draw. I activate Field Barrier. This stops any Field Spells from being destroyed, and neither of us can activate a new one. How's your Kozmotowns lookin'?' Myka didn't respond, but looked pensive. 'I'll attack Delta Shuttle with my Guardian Chimera.' Chimera's chained head shot out, smashing through the Shuttle. 'I end my turn.'

(Myka hand: Kozmo Lightsword, Kozmo Dark Planet, Past Image, Kozmo Tincan)

Myka: 'I draw. I'll summon Kozmo Tincan (Atk:0). I end my turn, and use Tincan's effect to pay 500 Life points (Myka LP:8900-8400), and reveal three Kozmos for you to randomly add one to my hand. I'll reveal Kozmo Soartroopers, Kozmo Farmgirl, and… erm… Kozmourning.' Maddy grinned, realising this meant that Myka had run out of ships in her deck. 'I'll pick the one on the left.'

(Maddy hand: Frightfur Meister)

Maddy: 'I draw. I'll attack your Landwalker with Chimera.' Another attack saw the last ship fall for the Canadian, forcing her to go lower in terms of defence. 'I'll banish Landwalker to summon Kozmo Soartroopers (Def.:1000).'

(Myka hand: Kozmo Lightsword, Kozmo Dark Planet, Past Image, Kozmourning, Future Glow)

Myka: 'I draw, I'll use Soartroopers to pay a stack (Myka LP:8400-7400), and summon back Kozmo Dark Lady (Def.:1800). I end my turn.'

(Maddy hand: Frightfur Meister, Greater Polymerisation)

Maddy: 'I draw. I'll just attack Dark Lady.' Maddy's relentless pressure continued as Dark Lady was the next monster to go to the graveyard. 'I end my turn.'

(Myka hand: Kozmo Lightsword, Kozmo Dark Planet, Past Image, Kozmourning, Future Glow, Kozmo Tincan)

Myka: 'I draw. I'll set two backrow and end my turn.'

(Maddy hand: Frightfur Meister, Greater Polymerisation, De-Fusion)

Maddy: 'I draw. I activate De-Fusion, to send Guardian Chimera back to my Extra deck, and replace it with its materials (Barbaros Atk:3000, Chain Atk:1200, Owl Atk:1000).' 'But why?' 'So I can activate Greater Polymerisation. This fuses Chain, Owl, and the Frightfur Meister in my hand to Fusion summon Guardian Chimera (Atk:3300). And Chimera will destroy Soartroopers and draw me two new cards.' As Chimera roasted Soartroopers, the end was nigh for Myka.

'Now I summon Fluffal Penguin (Atk:1600), and I'll attack your Tincan with my Chimera. As a teeny lil' side note, Greater Polymerisation gave it Piercing damage, in case it wasn't nasty enough.' Chimera's head practically frothed at the mouth before slamming into Tincan, dealing heavy damage (Myka LP:7400-4400). 'Now my other monsters attack.' An electric spear here, a surge from a winged bow-tie there, and Myka was down and out, having exhausted every monster in her deck (Myka LP:4400-0).

As another success was notched up, Maddy breathed heavily, and despite clearly not being in a good way physically, took a microphone. 'I… don't need to breathe to win it seems. Maybe it's just… nobody can keep up with me. Belle, Justin, don't worry about arranging… a rematch.' She then coughed up some blood but managed to hold more down. 'Santander, I'll take you both on. See if two of you can… take this title off me. Because… nobody can so far.' She dropped the mic, and struggled to the back with Rio guiding her.

While she was being checked over, the commentators described the situation as the 'strain of being a fighting champion", before announcing that Maddy and Akiza would be facing off in three weeks' time, at WDC World Tour: Toronto, or as it was now being renamed for the occasion, WDC: Witchunt.

Elsewhere, Myka was approached for an interview, with a cold towel on the back of her head. 'Myka Grainger, a fantastic competitor, not quite enough tonight.' 'I still can't stand her, but I'll give her her due, she's been champion for that long for a reason - she doesn't go away.' 'That must have hurt though, losing from so far ahead.' 'I've only got myself to blame, I let that idiot Chazz distract me when I could have just gone after her and worried about him later. But don't take anything away from her, she deserves that title. Man duels with her hurt though, 50 minutes and I feel like I've been 12 with Muhammed Ali.'

Curiously, Caprice then approached her. After they stared at each other for some time, Myka just laughed to herself and said 'I guess it's your plan then.' Caprice then took the microphone off the interviewer. 'Listen here Maddy, everything that happens, everything anyone does to you, this is by design, this is me making sure that I'm just the vulture picking off the scraps. And then, I'll finish you off for good. I will do whatever I have to in order to make sure it's you I take the title off, because the sun only shines, on me.' Myka and Caprice left together, seemingly allied.

The main event started with Sledgehammer walking out, in a golden robe with the kanji for "victory" on it. Beside him were not just Chazz and Nico, but also Henrietta Akaba and Justin. During the walk down, he was assessed by the commentators. "Sledgehammer is said to have lost 1 in his last 100 duels, and is a clear and present danger for the new WDC Champion. Having come through the dangerous streets of Kabuchiko, his quest is now to cause the pain and destruction he saw on everybody else. With two powerful decks in Ancient Warriors and Cubic, he's a stern test for even our veteran champion.' In the zone, Sledgehammer roared, to a tremendous response.

Phil's music then hit, and he walked out wearing sunglasses, accompanied by Kelly and Claudia, who both had their hair down, dressed in suits. "Phil is a 6-time WDC Champion and now the AllStars Champion, but is still coming off a rough patch in form. His Cyber Dragons deck shows its age but still competes grandly and provides constant offensive pressure, marshalled by an experienced competitor with a cool head. And he will never back down from a threat."

In the duelling zone, Phil held his arms out wide, and then lifted his briefcase, laying it flat in his hands. Claudia and Kelly each undid one of the clasps, and then lifted the lid to reveal the WDC Championship belt sat on a cushion inside. He withdrew the belt, and lifted it above his head, as the crowd booed him. He and Sledgehammer then went nose-to-nose, but tensions were dissuaded enough for the duel to begin.

WDC Championship: The Sledgehammer LP:8000 vs. [c] Phil Robinson LP:8000

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon, Future Fusion, Time Fusion, Cyber Network, Miracle Day)

Phil: 'I'll open up with Time Fusion.' As this was declared, a clock appeared above him, bending inwards on itself. 'This powerful option requires me to banish Cyber Dragon from my hand, but the rewards are worth it. During my next Standby phase, I'll be able to summon a Fusion monster from my Extra deck for free. For now though, I'll activate Future Fusion, set two and pass.'

(Sledgehammer hand: Crimson Nova, the Dark Cubic Lord, Cubic Karma, Unification of the Cubic Lords, Pot of Greed, Crimson Nova the Dark Cubic Lord, Duza the Meteor Cubic Vessel)

Sledgehammer: 'The incredible Sledgehammer draws! He will reveal Duza the Meteor Cubic Vessel, Unification of the Cubic Lords, and Cubic Karma in his hand to summon Crimson Nova the Dark Cubic Lord (Atk:3000). But why stop there when he has two? (Atk:3000). Afterwards he will summon Duza the Meteor Cubic Vessel (Atk:1600). The effect of Duza will send any Cubic card to the graveyard, and the pick is Cubic Wave. Crimson Nova, attack.'

The attempt to end the contest early ended up failing however, as the champion was prepared. 'I activate Miracle Day. This shuts off all damage until the end of my next turn, and draws me a card. In return, I can't Normal summon a monster next turn.' 'The Sledgehammer will end his turn setting a card, and wait for your luck to run out.' 'Not before I activate Cyber Network. With this, I'll banish Cyber Dragon Herz.'

(Phil hand: Rank-up Magic Renegades Unite!, Cyberload Fusion)

Phil: 'I draw and I'll use the effect of Time Fusion in my Standby phase to summon Cyber End Dragon (Atk:4000). And I'll immediately use it to attack Duza. Super Strident Blaze.' The powerful Fusion monster sparked out Duza with a devastating burst of electricity, causing the challenger to take the first damage (Sledgehammer LP:8000-5600). 'I end my turn, and look forward to your imminent demise. After all, it's only my Trap that is saving you right now.'

(Sledgehammer hand: Cubic Karma, Pot of Greed, Crimson Nova the Dark Cubic Lord)

Sledgehammer: 'The brave Sledgehammer draws his next card.' Seeing the card was enough for Nico to jump up and down in delight. 'And it will not be his last! He activates his face-down, the Trap card Unification of the Cubic Lords, fusing together the two Crimson Novas on the field with the one in his hand, to summon out the ultimate Cubic threat, Crimson Nova Trinity the Dark Cubic Lord (Atk:4500).' In response, Phil immediately put his Network to use. 'I'll use Cyber Network to banish Cyber Dragon Drei.' 'Crimson Nova Trinity will easily destroy your Cyber End Dragon.' Cyber End fired its electricity, only for it to bounce off Trinity. As Trinity was bearing down though, Phil was caught in a pink light.

'Ah yes, I forgot to mention just one little thing, when Crimson Nova Trinity attacks, it halves your Life points! (Phil LP:8000-4000).' Trinity then easily roasted Cyber End, dealing further damage (Phil LP:4000-3500). 'And furthermore, because it destroyed your monster in battle, Trinity attacks again! Say goodbye to your title!' The devastating attack from Nova Trinity produced an unexpected explosion, as Sledgehammer grinned in delight. The thrill quickly soured however, when Phil was revealed to still be standing (Phil LP:3500-1750).

'But… but…' 'I thought I was saying goodbye to my title?' 'You should be in the ground! You should be dust! You should be' 'You should be careful what you say. Thanks to Cyberload Fusion, I was able to summon Cyber Eternity Dragon to shield me. Even better, it leaves me a gift - Cyber Dragon (Atk:2100).' 'The Sledgehammer… erm… ends his turn.'

(Phil hand: Evolution End Burst)

Phil: 'I draw. Remind me, where was Crimson Nova Trinity summoned from?' 'Why that would be the Extra deck' Nico responded proudly. 'Thanks. I'll Contact fuse it with my Cyber Dragon for the biggest upgrade yet - Chimeratech Megafleet Dragon (Atk:?-2400). Megafleet, fire away.' Megafleet shot out balls of blue lightning from its two jagged mouths, taking more points away from Sledgehammer (Sledgehammer LP:5600-3200). 'I'll banish Cyber Dragon with Cyber Network, then end my turn.'

(Sledgehammer hand: Cubic Karma, Pot of Greed, Cubic Mandala)

Sledgehammer: 'The king of this and any world, Sledgehammer draws!' 'I don't believe in kings, only winners and losers, and you're not the former.' Nico immediately took offence to this. 'I am not a loser!' 'Oh I totally agree, you're too subhuman to be a loser.' 'A bit like that freak of a daughter of yours?' Hearing this, Phil looked over at Kelly and Claudia. 'Get him girls.' As they chased him out, it was just champion and challenger facing off. 'Come on then big boy, use your own voice. It's not like you don't speak English.' Angered, Sledgehammer continued his turn. 'Pot of Greed, I draw 2. Then I Unification from grave, add Vijam. Set monster, pass.'

(Phil hand: Evolution End Burst, Shockwave)

Phil: 'I'll draw again, using Network at the start of my Standby phase to banish Cyber Dragon. Then it will destroy itself, and I'll summon two Cyber Dragons (Atk:2100x2). Now I'll overlay them both. Open the door and touch the future, as I summon out the latest evolution of Cybernetic technology. Blast me into tomorrow, Cyber Dragon Nova (Atk:2100). That's the turn.' 'That's… it?' 'That's it.'

(Sledgehammer hand: Cubic Karma, Cubic Mandala, Soul Charge, Debunk, Vijam the Cubic Seed)

Sledgehammer: 'I draw, set monster, trap, pass.' The duel, which had devolved into an extended staring contest, was now starting to elicit boos from fans at both competitors.

(Phil hand: Evolution End Burst, Shockwave, Hanewata)

Phil: 'I'll draw, and I'll set one card before passing turn.'

(Sledgehammer hand: Cubic Karma, Cubic Mandala, Soul Charge, Debunk)

Sledgehammer: 'Draw, set hand.'

(Phil hand: Pot of Greed)

Phil: 'I draw and I'll use my own Pot of Greed to draw two.' Seeing the cards gave him an idea. 'I'll summon Cyber Dragon Core (Atk:400), and use its effect to grab Cybernetic Revolution. Then I can activate Secret Pass to the Treasures. Because my Core has under 1000 Attack points, it can attack directly.' The essence of Phil's signature Dragon shot a short sharp bolt of electric at Sledgehammer, reducing his points (Sledgehammer LP:3200-2800). 'I end my turn with a face-down.'

(Sledgehammer hand: Monster Reborn)

Sledgehammer: 'Draw, activate Monster Reborn, revive Crimson Nova the Dark Cubic Lord (Atk:3000). Attack Cyber Dragon!' 'I activate Shockwave, destroying Crimson Nova, and we both lose 3000 Life points. But I'll also chain Hanewata, so I don't take any damage.' 'Debunk, negate effect of card in hand. If I lose… you lose with me.' Shockwave took effect, and Crimson Nova self-destructed, radiating out an evil aura and draining the last points from both champion and challenger (Sledgehammer LP:2800-0; Phil LP:1750-0).

The indecisive finish left the fans frustrated, and demanding a rematch. There wouldn't be any movement on it in this event however, as Kelly immediately took the title, and gave it to Phil, who walked away raising it high. Undaunted, Sledgehammer took a microphone. 'You, me, again. Now!' Phil had no interest in this however, instead raising the title again as the show concluded, the two of them clearly having unfinished business.

Elsewhere in Munich

Finn was sat in a theatre in a posh wingback chair, being interviewed by a local journalist about his career. 'I mean it can't have been easy winning six WDC Championships and holding each one for over four months.' 'Yes, well, it certainly isn't easy, especially when you have to look after your niece as well.' 'If you don't mind diverting the conversation for a moment, you mentioned Astrid there.' 'Yes, I raised her after her mother proved to be far from reliable. Even in Norway we have drugs, we have alcohol, we have… how do I put this, sin? She tried, but she fell into all this, and she just could not cope with a baby and another priority, so she made a decision.'

'So you raised Astrid?' 'Indeed, I raise her, I teach her everything. You would see I sometimes bring her to events, she would just watch and learn. I feel sorry, because I feel she needs the stable female influence, but she was given up and I could not allow her to be taken away.' As the crowds applauded, the journalist continued asking about Finn's title reigns, when suddenly three people wearing ski masks invaded the room, shocking the crowds. They didn't move from the entrance though; rather they stood silently.

The distraction for Finn allowed a fourth person to climb through a trapdoor, and charge at Finn. He noticed and blocked the surge, only for the attacker to spin around and catch him with a spinning back kick, stunning him for long enough for a jumping knee to the face. She then ripped off her mask, revealing Astrid with mascara leaking down her face. She got down over him, and repeatedly punched and kicked him, while screaming 'You want to talk about my Mum? She's more a person than you ever would be. And now you never will!'

After almost 10 minutes of the assault, two Police officers arrived at the theatre, jut as Astrid was pulling two tables close to each other. As they issues a warning to 'Step down and hold your hands up', she sandwiched his head between two of the oak tables. Briefly it looked like she was going to walk away as she held her hands up, before she turned around, and dropkicked the tables together, trapping his head between them both. Before she could cause any more damage, she was tasered by one of the officers. As she was handcuffed and taken away, Finn was being tended to by an ambulance crew.

Alpharic Legends Chapter V

Ally was once again learning the legends, and this time, Belle had joined her. 'The great Alpha continued her quest to make the world better, as she knew her path was the true and correct one. And although these were dangerous times, which she knew, she continued to selflessly work, because her aim was not for her, but for all those in her pack and all those to come. And in many generations, those who succeeded her would come to regard her aims as noble and true of heart

But as the dark clouds drew ever closer, she had a feeling that she knew the answers, but nevertheless refused to believe them. She was about to discover some treachery afoot, but she had to be careful, for not all is as it seems. Our great alpha may have had immense and beautiful power, but they also had weaknesses, they were far too loyal to those who once swore their faith. When a truth became available, she had to choose between it being what it seems or just another falsehood, with the consequences for being wrong being dire."

Next time: Has Akiza met her match when Sakura takes up the mantle? Meanwhile, Belle and Justin both aim for Maddy's title, Freja defends her lord against the Sledgehammer's assault, and the tables are turned on the masked attacker in Renegades: A New Dawn Chapter LXIX: Strike of the Dynasty