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.

74. Faithless

Chapter 74: Faithless

WDC Warzone: Alabama card:

WDC Championship: Caleb Hyles vs. [c] Phil Robinson

WDC Championship Top Contender's Duel: Kieran Byrne vs. Jade Goocheneyad

Shay Obsidian Open Challenge

Grudge Match: Belle Draper vs. Akiza Izinski

Two days before, LFD House Rules: Newcastle

LFD were hosting a local event in Newcastle, and Sledgehammer walked out during the show, having been ordered to be there, as Nico was about to make clear. 'Here we were looking forward to some much needed time off, and then we get a phone call from the Board of Directors just yesterday, telling us that if we aren't here, Sledgehammer loses this title which he has defended admirably for over a year.'

Before he could go any further with his complaining, Declan made his presence known, immediately getting nose-to-nose with Sledgehammer, with Nico trying to come between them. 'Mr. Akaba, if this is about Sledgehammer hitting you, he is incredibly sorry, he was incredibly annoyed after a difficult loss and you know how he reacts to being so annoyed.' 'It's nothing to do with that. We rely on our champions to be leading examples of the superiority of our company, and your reputation has preceded you. But recently, we have become incredibly concerned at your alarming rate of failure, resulting in a defeat to the WDC's Blair Flannigan in a manner which can only be described as "limp" and "pathetic".'

'Now as you would know if you had not been no-showing multiple events recently is that we have been conducting a little tournament to crown a new challenger for your title. And The Natural won, earning a shot at a time of their choosing. Now they informed me that they want to take their shot today, and I thought since you're finally here, they can have that shot right now.' As some unfamiliar music hit, his opponent walked out in a long white robe with a long hood obscuring their face. 'Introducing their opponent, from Newcastle, England, this is The Natural.' Reaching the zone, they activated a nondescript duel disk, and an unprepared Sledgehammer began his title defence.

LFD Atlas Championship: The Natural LP:8000 vs. [c] The Sledgehammer LP:8000

(Natural hand: Generaider Boss Stage, Generaider Boss Fight, Generaider Boss Bite, Utgarda, Generaider Boss of Delusion, Shift)

Natural: 'I'll open, and the games are about to commence with Generaider Boss Stage.' Upon being activated, the Boss Stage materialised as two floating light blue platforms, with a nine-circled emblem appearing behind each of them. 'Two face-down, your go.' 'That's… it?' 'Yeah, did you want something more? This lot don't seem to mind.'

(Sledgehammer hand: Cubic Karma, Crimson Nova the Dark Cubic Lord, Buster Gundil the Cubic Behemoth, Indora Doom Volt the Cubic Emperor, One for One, Cubic Mandala)

Sledgehammer: 'Draw.' As he did, the emblem behind them both lit up brightly. 'Time to see who you're up against today. After all, this is a Boss Stage, and you're not getting away without a fight. When you draw, I can summon a Generadier from my deck. Meet Harr, Generaider Boss of Storms (Def.:3000). And when I summon a Generadier on your turn, I can summon Generaider Tokens to every remaining Main Monster zone I have (Atk:1500x4).' ' Unperturbed, Sledgehammer continued.

'Reveal three Cubic cards (Buster Gundil, Indora Doom Volt, Mandala), summon Crimson Nova (Atk:3000). Crimson Nova attack Generaider Token.' 'Face-down - Shift.' As this was activated, Harr moved into the way of Crimson Nova's attack. 'This changes the attack target to Harr. And you can't get over that.' The two titanic monsters clashed, but neither was able to get the upper hand, resulting in a stalemate. 'Set two, end.' 'And as your turn ends, all my Tokens are destroyed.' As this happened, both competitors took 3000 damage from Crimson Nova (Sledgehammer LP:8000-5000; Natural LP:8000-5000).

(Natural hand: Generaider Boss Fight, Dark World Dealings)

Natural: 'I draw and I'll activate Dark World Dealings, which forces both of us to discard a card and then draw one to replace it. That card you drew by the way? That triggers Harr's effect, forcing you to discard a monster.' Buster Gundil went to the grave, and Natural continued their turn. 'Also, I can now summon another Generaider because you drew a card. Rise from the ashes, Naglfar, Generaider Boss of Fire (Atk:3100).' '31…' Sledgehammer muttered, shocked at the strength on show. 'Yep, and it's using that extra 100 to deal with your Crimson Nova.' Naglfar roared, and slashed the Cubic Lord with fiery claws, splitting it apart (Sledgehammer LP:5000-4900). 'I'll end my turn there with a further face-down.' Some brief showboating was enough to get the crowd pumped up high, and they started heckling Sledgehammer, while the Natural tucked a solitary blonde hair back under their hood.

(Sledgehammer hand: Indora Doom Volt the Cubic Emperor, One for One, Unification of the Cubic Lords)

Sledgehammer: 'Draw.' 'Boss Stage, to summon Frodi, Generaider Boss of Swords (Atk:2500). Then I summon two Generaider Tokens (Atk:1500x2).' With a 3rd light lit up on the symbol, Sledgehammer made a desperate play. 'One for One, discard Doom Volt, summon Vijam (Def.:0).' With this move, it was clear he was struggling, and the Natural smelled blood. 'I end turn, set one.' 'And I'll activate Frodi's effect. I can tribute any number of Generaiders or Warriors to destroy that many cards on the field, and for each destroyed card, you draw a fresh one. I'll tribute the two Tokens to take out your field.' Frodi picked up two golden swords, and wielded them both with expert skill, effortlessly slicing through the two cards on Sledgehammer's field.

(Natural hand: Terraforming)

Natural: 'Time to finish you off. I'll switch Harr to Attack mode (Atk:3000), and attack with it.' Harr brought the thunder with a lightning bolt straight into Sledgehammer's field, bringing his title reign to the precipice (Sledgehammer LP:4900-1900). 'Gorz the Emissary of Darkeness, summon itself.' 'Not this time, I'll use Harr's effect to tribute two Generaiders, being himself and Frodi, to negate your effect and destroy it. And that's all your time up.'

With Sledgehammer on the verge of defeat, The Natural then made a shocking revelation. 'You know, the best thing about living up around these parts, is that the accent…' at this point, they switched gradually to a much different accent, more Norse sounding. 'Is so easy to imitate. Almost makes you sound like a local, when in fact, you'd have to look even further North. Tricky at first. But after a while, the accent becomes simple. Natural even. Game over Sledgehammer.' They then took their hood off as the final attack went through, to reveal that the Natural was Astrid all along, as she stood with her hair down, grinning (Sledgehammer LP:0).

After the duel, Astrid claimed her title, and shook hands with Declan, revealing their ruse all along. But after parading the title to the shocked and delighted crowd (who erupted for the title win), there was another shock, as the Dynasty's music hit, and Phil walked out in sunglasses and a suit. He approached Astrid, who took off her robe to reveal a shirt with a large crowned "D" on the front, before holding up the Dynasty's symbol. As she went on to brutalise Sledgehammer's already injured leg, Phil took the microphone. 'Your winner, the new LFD Atlas Champion, and representing the Dynasty, the Natural - Astrid Hofferson!'

On the plane to Alabama

Maddy was watching Astrid's win with great pride and delight. 'Knew she'd bounce back. 'Trid always does, she's awesome like that. Way better than me.' 'You say that after 259 days' Belle responded, with Lydia concurring. 'Even Astrid will tell you that you're really good. Which reminds me, when are you having that duel?' Before Maddy could respond, Blair did by cheekily stating 'When they're both fit, so in about 20 years.'

This joke wasn't too well received however. 'Real funny B, you know that I'm not doing so hot. It's ok for people who don't get hurt.' 'You're saying that to someone who's duelling with a fractured wrist and had a staph infection last year which caused permanent nerve damage so I can't feel my left shoulder any longer.' 'Rio's Art Attack cast held your wrist in place though, right?' The two then grinned at each other, but it was clear that the conversation had left scars on both.

Outside the arena

Over a moderately sized lunch, Rio and Blair were discussing the issues regarding Maddy. 'So what's going on do you think?' 'Why you askin' me?' Rio responded. 'Not like I'm psychic or anything.' 'I know, but the way she's going on about Astrid' 'She has a point with Astrid, I've only seen her recently when she's been busy as the cradle snatcher, I've seen Reginald more.' 'How's all that going anyway, with him phoning you and all that?' Rio sighed in response. 'He wants to make up and regain some kind of brother-sister relationship, but…' 'You're not sure.' 'I don't know I'm ready for that yet. I just feel like there's so much going on, and if he comes back in as well, I just don't know what I'm going to do in terms of balancing everything.' 'Look, you only get one life, right?' Seeking advice, Rio turned the situation around.

'How've you been getting on with your family stuff?' 'Yeah, Dad and me have been talking quite a bit' 'I heard you on the phone the other day, must have been about half an hour.' 'We've been getting on really well, he wants to meet up again but we're working things out because I really don't want to go back to Michigan again.' 'Totally get it, too many fuckin' skeletons there.' 'It's just a lot of really shit things happened there and I don't need to be reminded. Especially with what's going on with America' 'That's right, she was arrested wasn't she?' 'Yeah, she was initially arrested for glassing you, and now she's also facing charges of extortion. I heard Claude dumped her when he found out she'd been arrested.' 'Any idea when the trial is yet or is it too early?' 'October 30th, I'll be giving evidence through video link. But with Reginald, it's your call, I'm not the person to be asking. Just… consider it.'

At the arena

As the club arrived at the venue, they were greeted by a video featuring Bolton being introduced as the new WDC Commissioner. 'So as my first call of business as Commissioner is to confirm that the main event of WDC: World Tour Toronto is going to be Maddy Smith vs. Akiza Izinski in a non-title duel. The event, which has been subtitled WDC: Witchunt, will start at a later time of 6:25pm. In addition, I have appointed a special guest enforcer who will be completely neutral, to enforce justice and prevent any… unintended interference.'

'Now to address the situation regarding the WDC Tag-Team Championships. Under a new rule introduced with consultation of the Board of Directors, any team who hold titles but fail to defend them for two shows in a row can be stripped of their titles. However, despite this being the case for the WDC Tag-Team Champions, the Frozen Diamonds, will not be stripped of their titles, as the board have determined it would be unreasonable due to the challengers pulling out of this duel. Therefore, the duel will go ahead at Witchunt.'

In the duelling zone

The show opened with Caleb emerging, wearing shades of gold and purple in a regal statement, smiling all the while. 'The opening duel here in Alabama is for the WDC Championship. Introducing first the challenger, from Oakham, England, he is the challenger, Caleb Hyles.' As Caleb started shouting to the quiet crowd, the commentators laid out the situation. "Caleb Hyles is a real unknown, having only been duelling professionally for around a year, but has quickly become LFD's equivalent to our Young-Gun Champion Maddy Smith, coming from nowhere to become a huge threat. His Doomsday Dogma deck punishes opponents who wish to access their big bosses, and makes the opponents suffer with simple plays executed perfectly."

Shortly after this, the champion came out to a decent reaction in the WDC's first ever visit to Alabama. 'Introducing his opponent, representing the Dynasty, from Taylor Park, Manchester, England, he is your reigning and defending WDC Champion of the world, the Northern Nightmare - Phil Robinson.' As Phil emerged with Kelly and Taylor, the commentary team discussed his career.

"You don't get much more experienced than Phil Robinson, in his 11th season as a professional, his 6th reign as WDC Champion, and is merely an hour and 40 minutes from spending longer in WDC Championship duels than any other competitor. He's a wily and scrappy type of competitor, and while he's been more unpredictable recently with his deck choices, one thing you can rely on is that he will give anyone a stern examination of their skills.'

In the zone, as the briefcase opened to show the title belt, Caleb shouted over. 'Ooh fancy entrance! Is this what big business guys do? Or is all this just part of your quest to defy the almighty one?' Entering the zone, Phil held the title high over Caleb's head. 'This is the closest you're ever going to get to the belt. You might think you're unpredictable but I know exactly what to expect.' 'You don't have a clue!'

WDC Championship: Caleb Hyles LP:8000 vs. [c] Phil Robinson LP:8000

(Caleb hand: Dogmatika Fleurdelis, the Knighted, Dogmatika Ecclesia, the Virtuous, Dogmatikaturgy, Dogmatika Encounter, Dogmatikacism)

Caleb: 'It's time for our sermon to begin! I summon Dogmatika Ecclesia, the Virtuous (Atk:1500). And our brave saint will add a Dogmatika card to my hand, such as Dogmatika Punishment. I'll throw these four cards face-down.'

(Phil hand: Generaider Boss Bite, Utgarda, Generaider Boss of Delusions, Dovelgus, Generaider Boss of Iron, Demise of the Land, World Legacy Monstrosity)

Phil: 'I draw. I'll activate World Legacy Monstrosity, which summons a Level 9 monster from my hand. Meet Utgarda, Generaider Boss of Delusions (Atk:2200).' 'It's a nice deck you got there, I see you borrowed it from your new Scandinavian lover.' 'Hardly lover, but go ahead.' 'Well you spend enough time together. Did she teach you how to play the deck or did you do it all by yourself?' 'You're real cocky for someone who's not done jack or shit to prove themselves. I'll move to my Battle phase' 'And I'll activate Dogmatika Punishment, sending Granguignol the Dusk Dragon to my graveyard and destroying your weaker Utgarda.' 'Fine, I'll end my turn with a face-down.'

(Caleb hand: Dogmatika Fleurdelis, the Knighted, Branded in Central Dogmatika)

Caleb: 'I'll draw and Ecclesia can attack for 1500. Make him worship!' Ecclesia swung her holy hammer, bringing up the floor as it landed (Phil LP:8000-6500). 'Don't have hard feelings, just consider this duel a… lesson. Know, I used to be just like you, I let my vices take over, I was a hard liquor and even harder girls kind of guy, would screw over my best bud for a dollar. Morals? What are they even? But then, I found my faith. And it taught me to harness my vices, and use them to punish those who were like me, and make them see the error of their ways! Mine is a holy crusade, because God, he's the one who truly understands how the world goes and how it can be fixed.'

He then looked up from his impassioned backstory to see Phil talking to Kelly. 'Sorry, are you done? I thought we'd lost you to a mad rant there.' 'You're real funny.' 'Thanks, that's the nicest thing anyone's ever said about me. Well apart from my smoking hot wife, but I'll leave that talk for home.' 'You brought new life into the world' 'Well technically Hannah did, she did all the hard work for 9 months, I just played a card game to provide some cash in the bank.' 'Surely now is the time to mend your ways? Embrace god's plan.'

Phil just laughed this off. 'God had plans for me, but I decided to ignore them. I don't care if he likes this path, because until he's the one living this life, I reserve the right to discount his opinion.' 'You're driving yourself down a very dark path with your vices and attitudes.' 'Again, why's that my concern?' 'Because one day you're not going to be around when that little mite needs you.' 'Is that supposed to be a threat?' Caleb just smiled. 'You can take it as whatever you like. Because as God's chosen one, I don't have anything to fear from you.'

(Phil hand: Generaider Boss Bite, Dovelgus, Generaider Boss of Iron, Cyber Dragon)

Phil: 'I'll draw and summon Cyber Dragon (Atk:2100). Just to check, you don't need your god to tell you why I'm summoning it?' 'I know full well what you're doing. And you can make fun of my faith, because it's what's going to win me this duel!' 'We'll see if you're still that confident when I fry your saint. Burn at the stake with Strident Blast.' Cyber Dragon used its powerful electrical attack to charcoal Ecclesia, destroying her (Caleb LP:8000-7400). 'I end my turn.'

(Caleb hand: Dogmatika Fleurdelis, the Knighted, Branded in Central Dogmatika, Monster Reborn)

Caleb: 'I draw. I believe in eternal life, and while I don't approve of sorcery, I can make an exception for Monster Reborn, bringing back Ecclesia (Atk:1500). And she'll search another Dogmatika Punishment.' 'Well since you just Special summoned, I've got a little magic of my own - Demise of the Land. This lets me search my deck for any Field spell, and activate it. I'll get a little one called Generaider Boss Stage.' 'Set up the stage however you like, because you know who is judging you.' 'Yep, and she'll tell me all about that when I get home. So why don't you take your turn while I'm awaiting that? That is, of course, presuming you've got anything else to do on your turn.' 'Why would I when I can simply end my turn?'

(Phil hand: Generadier Boss Bite, Dovelgus, Generaider Boss of Iron, Tribute Burial)

Phil: 'I'll draw.' As he did, he nodded, apparently impressed by something, as he mumbled 'Clever girl.' This didn't go unnoticed by Caleb. 'You just stole someone else's deck entirely.' 'I wouldn't say stole, she's getting it back. But for now I'm just going to attack your Ecclesia with Cyber Dragon.' Phil's signature monster roasted the virtuous saint again, causing another small piece of damage in the tense affair (Caleb LP:7400-6800).

'Now I'll activate Tribute Burial. This allows me to tribute summon a Level 7 or higher monster by banishing a monster from each Graveyard.' 'I activate Dogmatika Encounter, to add Ecclesia back to my hand. Now you've got nothing to banish.' 'Not true, I can still banish your Dusk Dragon, alongside Utgarda to summon Dovelgus, Generaider Boss of Iron (Atk:1500). I end my turn.'

(Caleb hand: Dogmatika Fleurdelis, the Knighted, Nadir Servant)

Caleb: 'I'll draw.' 'I'll activate Boss Stage to summon Harr, Generaider Boss of Shadows (Def.:3000), alongside some Tokens to go with it.' 'When you summon your Harr, I will activate Punishment, sending Mirrorjade the Iceblade Dragon to the graveyard and destroying Harr.' As Harr was blasted by Punishment's fire (Generaider Token Atk:1500x3), Caleb continued his turn. 'I'll activate Branded in Central Dogmatika and then activate Nadir Servant. This sends Herald of the Arc Light to my graveyard from the Extra deck, and searches for White Relic of Dogmatika. Then Herald's effect in the graveyard adds Dogmatikalamity to my hand. And I'll activate that immediately! It's a Ritual Spell that can use a monster from my Extra deck for the summon.' 'Funny, I know someone else who does that.' 'The difference is, I can use it effectively! I'll send another Herald of the Arc Light to summon White Relic of Dogmatika (Atk:500). And Herald will search Dogmatika Alba Zoa.'

'Now the effect of White Relic, when she's summoned she takes your Cyber Dragon's Attack points, and adds them to White Relic (Atk:500-2600). Meanwhile, Branded in Central Dogmatika will allow me to banish any card I like from your Extra deck.' As Caleb looked, he saw a target he liked. 'I'll take away Fortress Dragon.' Phil looked on, clearly somewhat edgy as Caleb declared an attack. 'White Relic, destroy Dovelgus.' White Relic fired a sharp orange light from her staff, which melted Dovelgus with ease (Phil LP:6500-5400). 'I end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Generaider Boss Bite, Vala, Seidhr of the Generaider Bosses)

Phil: 'I draw and I'll send Generaider Boss Bite to my graveyard and summon… I swear I'm going to get a pronunciation guide next time, we'll just call her Generaider Vala (Atk:2500). She'll revive Harr (Atk:3000). Harr, attack White Relic.' Deciding now was the time to strike, Caleb responded by declaring 'Now is the time for you to worship! I activate Dogmatikaturgy.' This forced Phil into a dangerous guessing game, which he accepted. 'I'll activate the effect of Harr to tribute itself and Vala, which gets banished, negating your effect and destroying it.'

This move intrigued Caleb. 'A very wise move, I think you might just have saved yourself there.' 'That's the idea. You might be keen on making me worship, but the only thing I worship is my own mind. My church is at home, the deity I serve is my wife, and the loss will be all yours. So take your turn and try to beat me if you can, because I don't believe in you or in your god.'

(Caleb hand: Dogmatika Fleurdelis, the Knighted, Dogmatika Encounter)

Caleb: 'Well I'll make you believe by taking away your title then!' As he seemingly became even more unhinged, Caleb set another card while laughing, before launching his assault. 'I'll attack Cyber Dragon with my White Relic of Dogmatika!' White Relic blasted apart the Cyber Dragon into pieces, chipping away more Life points in the close encounter (Phil LP:5400-4900). 'I end my turn.'

(Phil hand: UFO Turtle)

Phil: 'I'll draw, I'll set one monster and end my turn.'

(Caleb hand: Dogmatika Fleurdelis, the Knighted, Mystical Space Typhoon)

Caleb: 'Now's the time I should get aggressive.' 'Not until I activate Boss Stage you don't' 'Boss Stage Smoss Stage, who cares?! I'm just going to blow it away with Mystical Space Typhoon. Now that's not resolving I'll activate my set Dogmatikaturgy, equipping it to White Relic and giving it 200 Attack for every Dogmatika on my field (Atk:2600-2800). But why stop when I can activate Encounter to summon from my hand, Dogmatika Fleurdelis, the Knighted (Atk:2500, White Relic Atk:2800-3000). Fleurdelis, attack.' Fleurdelis' attack clashed with the metal shell of the UFO Turtle (Def.:1400), which eventually exploded. But Caleb was far from happy.

'You mean to tell me that deck has floaters?' 'Apparently' Phil responded, none the wiser. 'When it's destroyed, UFO Turtle floats into a Fire monster with no more than 1500 Attack from my deck.' After searching the deck, he summoned another Turtle (Atk:1200). 'Well it would be rude to not take advantage of the damage on the table. White Relic attacks, and Fleurdelis gives it 500 more Attack (Atk:3000-3500).' White Relic shot through the Turtle, dealing the most significant damage of the scrappy contest (Phil LP:4900-2600).

'Thanks to your little move there, I can search again. And I'm going to summon a monster called Loptr, Shadow of the Generaider Bosses (Atk:1500).' 'Summon whatever you like. Because I have the faith that the big man's going to see me through this test. Because I believe in him and he believes in me! And once I'm through you, I can go on a crusade, going through all the dirty sinners here and believe me, I mean everyone. I know all the skeletons you all hide, including your infidelity!' Phil rolled his eyes as a response. 'That thing with me and Rio isn't a secret, it's literally been used as ammunition against me more times than I can count. I apologised, she apologised, it's all good.' 'It might be to you, but in the eyes of the almighty, you still did it, and still have not recompense for your misdeeds! So he sent me here, it was fated, for me to be the one to punish you!'

(Phil hand: Mardel, Generaider Boss of Light)

Phil: 'I'll draw and use Loptr's effect. By tributing itself, it can summon a Generaider from my deck. I summon Vala (Atk:2500), and use her effect to summon Mardel (Atk:2400). And then Mardel can search another Boss Stage for me. Now I'll overlay my two Level 9 monsters.' 'You know what happens to Extra deck monsters when you face me, right?' 'I do, but I don't intend on letting you have it easy. You might think you've got things on lock, but when you're in my world, nothing comes for free. I'm the final boss right now, and I summon Number 9: Dyson Sphere (Atk:2800).'

Faced with a supersized star of a monster, Caleb was still confident. 'Go on, attack me. Both my monsters are stronger (Fleurdelis Atk:3000, Relic Atk:3500). It's your funeral.' 'Not exactly, you appear to have forgotten that Dyson Sphere can attack directly when it's the weakest monster around. Brilliant Bombardment.' The canopy star rained down thin white missiles from its panels, proving unavoidable for Caleb who saw his lead evaporating before his eyes (Caleb LP:6800-4000). 'I end my turn.'

(Caleb hand: Dogmatika Maximus)

Caleb: 'I'll draw.' After a little bit of consideration, Caleb came to an idea. 'I'll attack your Dyson Sphere with White Relic (Atk:3500-4000, Fleurdelis Atk:3000-3500).' 'I don't have to detach a material to negate with Dyson Sphere, so long as it has materials.' As the attack came in, the star quickly made itself invisible, as Caleb fumed. 'I'll banish Herald of the Arc Light to summon Dogmatika Maximus (Def.:3000).' 'You can summon as many as you like, it's still not working.' 'I know, that's why I've… adapted my play. I'll use its effect to send two cards from my Extra deck to the graveyard, and make you do the same.' As they both did so, Caleb gave a sinister smile. 'I'll destroy you, just you wait. I end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Generaider Boss Stage, Solemn Warning)

Phil: 'I draw. I'll activate another Boss Stage.' As the second stage lit up, portions of the engrossed crowd started shouting for Phil. 'I'll detach Dyson Sphere's other material to attack again.' Dyson Sphere rained down more missiles, dropping Caleb's points low (Caleb LP:4000-1200). 'I end my turn.'

(Caleb hand: Mystical Space Typhoon)

Caleb: 'I'll draw and activate another Typhoon so don't even think about Boss Stage.' As the second stage went the way of the first, Caleb continued his new strategy. 'I'll send two monsters from my Extra deck to the grave and force you to send two more.' As Phil did this, he came to a plan. 'I end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Valkyrie Sigrun)

Phil: 'I'll draw, and there's not anything I can do, so I'm simply passing.'

(Caleb hand: Dogmatika Nexus)

Caleb: 'I'll draw and banish four Extra deck monsters from your graveyard to summon the almighty lord himself, Dogmatika Nexus (Def.:4000).' 'I'll respond with a Solemn Warning. Looks like god's suddenly on my side Caleb, because this will negate the summon of Nexus (Phil LP:2600-600), and destroy it.' Fuming, Caleb ended his turn.

(Phil hand: Valkyrie Sigrun, Kuji-Kiri Curse)

Phil: 'I draw. I'll activate Kuji-Kiri Curse. By sending the Level 9 Valkyrie Sigrun to my graveyard, I can draw two new cards.' As he took the second card, he saw what he was after. 'Clever clever girl. I activate Rank-up Magic Argent Chaos Force. This will rank up Dyson Sphere into a Chaos Xyz monster. Chaos Xyz Evolution! Burning star, open up and unleash your world-ending wrath on my foe! Appear, Number C9, Chaos Dyson Sphere (Atk:3600). Attack Maximus!' 'I won't take any damage, what's the point? You've just dug your own grave!' 'The point is that any monster C9 battles becomes an Xyz Material for it (Materials:1-2).'

'Now for the effects of C9. Firstly, because it has materials, it can deal you 300 damage for each one (Caleb LP:1200-600). Then, I'll detach just the one, Maximus, to deal 800 more damage!' As the final blow came in, Caleb would live to regret not being more ambitious with his advantage early on; Chaos Dyson Sphere raining down flaming meteors to end a gruelling near-hour-long contest (Caleb LP:600-0).

After the duel finished, Phil raised his title while shaking his head, while a frustrated Caleb laughed to himself, audibly shouting 'You got me brother, but I took something back from you!' Phil started to hi-five some fans, and was then greeted by Rio, and they had an extended talk quiet enough for nobody to be able to hear, despite several fans in the front row attempting to do so. After this, he lifted his title for the crowd again to lukewarm reactions and left, while Rio received a microphone and tossed it around waiting for the fans to quieten down.

'Not here to waste time, we know who the masked attacker is. So Shannon Kelly get your stinkin' ass out here so I can kick your head in!' Shannon didn't initially appear, but Maddy did, and she appeared to be rather cross at Rio's actions. As they had an incredibly tense discussion regarding the actions, they got distracted by Shannon's music starting to an enormous ovation, and she walked out, still scarred from her duel with Maddy at In the Shadows, sporting dark makeup under her eyes and several scratches that were previously deep wounds, wearing jeans and a red t-shirt emblazoned with gold stars. 'Hey Maddy, just so you know, I forgive you for what you did. I get it, you were confused, you were angry, you were out of control, so just to let you know, it's ok, I forgive you. So come back with me and all can be forgiven, ok?' 'Come back with you? You've been attacking us, making us all think Jess was responsible, and you think I'm coming anywhere with you? I didn't realise I gave you brain damage.' 'Just about the only thing you didn't, but people feel sorry for you?'

This was enough to peak Maddy's rage, and she readied for a spear. As she launched herself though, Rio noticed something strange with Shannon's shirt. 'Maddy, stop' she whispered, but the rabid alpha wouldn't listen, and flew towards the returning ginger, leading Rio to take her life in her hands and run past her leader, landing a fierce karate-style kick into Shannon's ribs, which pushed her back but didn't seem to hurt her, instead causing her shirt to fly up and reveal a metal plate around her waist. This impact pushed Shannon back just long enough for Maddy to come to her senses, and as her eyes stopped glowing, she changed her balance and slid to a graceful halt, dirt flying off her shoes as she did. She and her former friend locked eyes, but Shannon smiled cockily before walking away, as Rio limped back to her feet, having seemingly done some real damage to her foot. Instead of showing concern for her though, Maddy just stared at her suspiciously.

Backstage

Akiza was once again in the dark room, but she was less calm than normal, instead pacing around the room. 'Anniversary show, you beat me Belle. You embarrassed me, I lost to a NEWBIE!? Some NOBODY!? I can't accept that happened, you're the only little… bug… blemish… on my revenge tour. My bid to right the wrongs and fulfil the fates that need to be fulfilled. This one isn't about fate though, this is about taking my revenge.' She then picked up a picture from somewhere unseen in front of her, showing Belle with her hair wrapped tight, in a grey tracksuit, sat in a lime green room with little in the way of decoration. 'Young Offenders. Because you took a life Belle, but you get accepted as the little killer that you are. In my world though, blood equals blood, and when I'm done with you, your little prison will feel like a holiday camp. This won't be a duel, this will be a funeral. Night night little rat, the time for the fates is nearing. Night night little rat, soon your world will be ending.'

In the duelling zone

Jade emerged first for the next duel, sporting a new meaner-looking attitude, and being introduced by DJ. 'The following duel is a Top Contender's duel for the WDC Championship, introducing representing the Renegade Nation, from Qa'em Shahr, Iran, she is the Vespertine - Jade Goocheneyad.' With her hair up tight, she walked down with purpose, the introduction ringing in her ears still. "Jade Goocheneyad here standing in as a late replacement in this duel for The Sledgehammer, who we understand is suffering with heavy bruising to his left femur as a result of Astrid Hofferson's attack last week in the Leo Federation. Jade was nominated after starring in a very feisty LFD Doubles duel last time out in South Africa, and with her new Fatal Attraction deck, aims to take her opponents for a spin and give them a ticket to their doom." Reaching the duelling zone, she raised her arms, throwing off the shawl-like jacket from her shoulders to reveal a shirt, with the Arabic for "Never run away from the past, use it and empower your future" hand-stitched by her all the way down the back. As the fans cheered, they awaited her opponent's imminent arrival.

As soon as Kieran's music hit though, Powerplay marched out, carrying the standard with them. One of the names that had previously been missing was now replaced with Shannon's, but the final name was still nowhere to be seen. Kieran then made his appearance in a vest which was seemingly designed to show off his strapping shoulder muscles. He made his way down quite swiftly in a manner not befitting his size as the commentators explained his inclusion in the duel. "Kieran Byrne is a highly skilled and gritty competitor who will never go down without a fight. Seeing duelling as a career but not a passion has given him his own signature approach. He's been given an opportunity as his form has seen him close in on the top spot in the world; winning this and the subsequent title duel would see him overhaul Blair Flannigan and his Junction 7 team-mate Akiza Izinski. He'll be hoping that his "Superheavy Stalwart" deck stands as true and solid as he holds himself to, against an opponent who has a very good reputation but lacks his experience."

WDC Championship Top Contender's Duel: Kieran Byrne LP:8000 vs. Jade Goocheneyad LP:8000

(Jade hand: Amaze-Attraction Viking Vortex, Amaze-Attraction Majestic Merry Go Round, Amazement Attendant Comica, Amazing Time Ticket, Magical Stone Excavation)

Turn 1: Jade: 'I'll start with Amazement Attendant Comica (Atk:1400), and she'll set Amaze Attraction Horror House to my field. I'll set another three and end my turn. I challenge you not to underestimate me like everyone else does.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Prodigy Wakaushi, Superheavy Samurai Monk Big Benkei, Superheavy Samurai Battleball, Superheavy Samurai Magnet, Superheavy Samurai Gigagloves, Superheavy Samurai Soulshield Wall)

Kieran: 'You beat that chick Belle, you deserve respect, and I don't take anything for granted. I'll start by sending Superheavy Samurai Big Benkei from my deck to the grave, bringing out Monk Big Benkei (Def.:3500). Then I'll place Prodigy Wakaushi in the Pendulum scale and use its effect, placing General Coral in the other Pendulum zone and summoning itself (Atk:1000). Now I'll tune Level 4 Wakaushi and Level 8 Monk Big Benkei to Synchro summon Superheavy Samurai Brave Masurawo (Def.:4200). Big Benkei then places itself in the Pendulum zone.'

In an awkward situation, Jade fired an emergency button. 'I'll activate my face-down Amazing Time Ticket. This allows me to set Amaze Attraction Thrill Train from my deck, and I can activate it this turn.' 'That's all fine, I'll Normal summon Battleball (Atk:400).' Seeing where this was going, Jade immediately responded. 'I'll activate Amaze Attraction Horror House, and this card's a lil' bit of a nightmare for your Battleball, because it's nothing when stripped of its effect.' This led to a tense moment, before Kieran ended his turn, surprising Jade.

(Jade hand: Magical Stone Excavation, Amazement Abomination Arlekino)

Jade: 'I'll draw, and because I control an Amazement monster, I can summon Amazement Abomination Arlekino (Atk:2600), then I'll add Amazement Family Faces to my hand. I'll set this and end my turn.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Magnet, Superheavy Samurai Gigagloves, Superheavy Samurai Soulshield Wall, Superheavy Samurai Soulbeads)

Kieran: 'I'll draw and summon Superheavy Samurai Magnet (Def.:1900). And it's going to bring back a monster from my graveyard, being Wakaushi (Atk:1000). Now tuning Level 2 Battleball to Level 4 Magnet to Synchro summon Superheavy Samurai Ogre Shutendoji (Def.:2500). And because my graveyard doesn't contain any Spells or Traps, I can destroy all the Spells and Traps on your field.' 'Fine, do your worst' Jade responded, catching Kieran off guard. As the backrow was all destroyed, Kieran mumbled 'Someone seems confident', which Jade's hearing picked up with the slightest flash of her eyes.

'Something like that, or maybe it's because nobody believes I can win. What's there to fear? If you think I should be scared, take me out.' Knowing that beating her on that turn was unlikely, Kieran kept his composure. 'I'm going to attack your Comica with Ogre Shutendoji.' Kieran's superheavy ogre rampaged toward the attendant, and crushed it with a swinging spiked club (Jade LP:7200-6100). 'Masuwaro will destroy Abomination Arlekino.' 'I activate the effect of Arlekino, to reduce your Prodigy's Attack to 0 (Atk:1000-0), and shuffle itself into the deck, replacing itself with Amazement Administrator Arlekino (Def.:2200).' 'Doesn't matter to me, it's still going down.' Arlekino stood little chance at resisting the blow, but Jade's Life points were kept safe. 'I'll end my turn. Damn, maybe I should have been more aggressive… well it doesn't matter now, I'll finish you off next turn anyway.' 'You know, I'm not worried' Jade responded. 'I know I can get out of this. I just need to draw the right card.'

(Jade hand: Magical Stone Excavation, Amazement Ambassador Bufo)

Jade: 'I'll draw.' As she looked at the card, she paused for thought. 'Oh, I didn't think of that… I guess it works. Guess I'm going for it, I summon Amazement Ambassador Bufo (Atk:1600). And when he's summoned, Bufo can show you one of the Attractions in my graveyard. In fact, it will give your Masuwaro a good look at it, by equipping that Attraction to it.' Bufo dipped into a portal in the ground, and after rummaging for a while, pulled out the longship of Viking Vortex, before forcing Masuwaro into it.

'And now I'll activate Amazement Family Faces, so say cheese!' The three slots all whirred, coming up with Masuwaro's face. 'Looks like my number's up, so I take control of your Masuwaro. And now because I control the monster in Viking Vortex, I can negate one of your attacks every turn. But first, I'm going to have Bufo destroy your Prodigy.' Kieran looked somewhat surprised for a moment as the teddy bear-like Bufo attached balloons to Prodigy and let it float into the air, before throwing a stone at it and making it crash to the ground in a mangled mess (Kieran LP:8000-7400).

Soon after though, he figured out her plan and smiled to himself. 'This is what I get for being too nice. I should have known better, you'd think I'd learn eventually.' 'You're going to regret it a little bit more when your old ally destroys your Shutendoji.' Masuwaro brought its giant sword down straight through the centre of Shutendoji, giving Jade real hope (Kieran LP:7400-5200). 'I end my turn.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Gigagloves, Superheavy Samurai Soulshield Wall, Superheavy Samurai Soulbeads, Superheavy Samurai Soulclaw)

Kieran: 'I'll draw and activate the effect of Monk Big Benkei in the Pendulum zone, to add Superheavy Samurai Soulbuster Gauntlet to my hand. Now I'll Pendulum summon Superheavy Samurai Gigagloves, Soulshield Wall and Soulbeads, and from my Extra deck, Wakaushi (Def.:1000,1200,800,1500). I'll then tune Level 4 Wakaushi to Level 1 Soulbeads, Level 3 Soulshield Wall and Level 3 Gigagloves, to Synchro summon Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo (Def.:3800). And I'll equip it with Soulclaw from my hand, giving it another 500 Defence (Def.:3800-4300). I'll destroy Bufo now.' Susanowo showed a surprising turn of pace as it charged into the bear, slicing it up (Jade LP:6100-3600). 'I'll end my turn.'

(Jade hand: Pot of Extravagance)

Jade: 'I'll draw and activate Pot of Extravagance. This banishes six random cards from my Extra deck so I can draw two cards. Then I'll tribute Masurawo to summon Great Maju Garzett. It's Attack is double that of Masurawo's (Atk:2100-4200). And I'll also equip Big Bang Shot, which will give 400 more Attack points and piercing damage (Atk:4200-4600). Now attack Susanowo.' Maju Garzett's attack connected with sharp horns, dropping Kieran's points and making him look somewhat concerned (Kieran LP:5200-4800). 'I end my turn.'

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Stealthy)

Kieran: 'I draw.' Kieran was just about to acknowledge how his draw didn't help, when he had a sudden realisation, and decided to act on it immediately. 'I'll Pendulum summon Superheavy Samurai Stealthy (Def.:0), and use its effect. I tribute it to take a Spell or Trap from your graveyard and set it on my field. I choose your Viking Vortex.' 'I get it, you're stopping me using it again' Jade applauded, but this was far from the plan.

'I'll then use the effect of Susanowo, to take a Spell or Trap from your graveyard, and set it to my field. I'm going to choose Amazement Family Faces.' At this moment, Jade realised what he was doing. 'You have to be kidding me.' Uncharacteristically though, Kieran had some praise as he used the 1-2 punch to take control of Jade's Garzett. 'Sweet deck. You're going to go far kid. But not now (Garzett Atk:4600-5100). Attack!' Kieran's newly acquired monster charged with its horns, while Susanowo slashed away and ended the surprisingly competitive contest (Jade LP:6100-0).

The duel concluding, Kieran shouted in pride and relief, having overcome the tricky threat. David and Brooks came over to celebrate with him, but he had no interest, brushing them straight off, and saluting the appreciative crowd before leaving. Meanwhile Jade nodded, frustrated at the loss but aware of how well she performed, and she found herself joined by Blair and Brooke, encouraging her to return from the zone.

As they returned backstage, Blair noticed Michael Adams nearby, and went over to clarify the state of the tag titles with him. 'Look, I've had enough fooling around, what the hell's going on with the tag title duel?' 'You should be asking Bolton about this, but since you're here, Caleb has chosen not to compete in the duel, and as he is not a WDC competitor and he has been in a title duel. However, in Toronto, it WILL happen. If it doesn't, they will not be getting another shot.'

Just then, Shay walked in and seeing Blair, a confident grin spread across his face. 'Look, Caleb might not be around, but that doesn't mean we can't still have some fun. When I came over here, my quest was to go 1-1 with you, because you're the best in the world as far as I'm concerned. So let's have ourselves a little contest, what do you say?' Excited by the challenge, Blair responded with 'Get your deck, you've pulled.'

Meanwhile, out of the view of the cameras

Sakura was eating lunch when Rio approached her, still visibly tender in her right foot. 'You really want to get your foot checked out Rio.' 'That can wait, it's just a little sore, I'm pretty sure nothing's broken.' 'You can put weight on it?' 'Yeah, hurts but I'm putting all weight on it, I think I've got some deep tissue bruising, the bigger issue is I might have torn a hamstring, it's feeling super tight. But that's not why I'm here.'

'Go on.' 'It's the Morphine, I think we need to wean her off it. She's suspicious and I think it's affecting her judgement.' 'What do you suggest then?' 'I suggest we try and wean over a period of about 2-3 weeks, I know it's a little quick but if we reduce the amount every day it shouldn't be negative on her. We can't risk her finding out.' 'Do we replace the lost amount with other painkillers then? Because those ribs aren't healing like they should be.'

'I think we see how it goes, try and avoid that but if it's necessary, we do whatever we have to. Feel real dirty sneaking around like this' 'But what other choice do we have? If we tell her she goes mega mad, if we do nothing she's going to work herself into the ground for real, and if we ask her she'll just say no. There's no winning there. Trust me, we're doing the right thing. And the water was genius.' 'Thanks' Rio responded, clearly slightly embarrassed at the praise. As they parted, they were unaware that Maddy had been listening from the adjoining wall of the next room.

In the duelling zone

Shay appeared first, without Caleb by his side. 'The following duel is under standard rules. Introducing first, representing the Leo Federation, from Carson City, Nevada, face the Raven - Shay Obsidian.' He walked down, apparently totally at ease and not even slightly intimidated by his opponent, and in the zone, he swung his jacket like a cape, captivating the commentators enough to stop them talking. Blair then entered, with her mask sporting a large crimson X on her mask to reflect the state flag, which got a fantastic reaction. She walked down, signing some autographs on the way, and then taking her mask off to take a picture with a young fan in the front row. She then entered the zone, and raised the red right hand, to which Shay laughed. 'You think you can intimidate me?' 'No, I let my duelling do that' she responded, clearly up for a fight.

Shay Obsidian LP:8000 vs. Blair Flannigan LP:8000

(Blair hand: Shaddoll Hedgehog, Shaddoll Squamata, Shaddoll Fusion, Sol and Luna, Fusion Conscription)

Turn 1: Blair: 'I'll open by activating Shaddoll Fusion, combining Hedgehog and Squamata to summon El Shaddoll Winda (Atk:2200). With the effects of Hedgehog and Squamata respectively, I can add Reeshaddoll Wendi to my hand and send Shaddoll Beast to my graveyard to draw a card through its effect. I end my turn with a face-down.'

(Shay hand: Raidraptor - Bloom Vulture, Raidraptor - Glorious Bright, Raidraptor - Napalm Dragonius, Raidraptor - Noir Lanius, Rank-up-Magic Double Doom Force, Raidraptor - Return)

Shay: 'I'll draw and set a monster, set two backrow.'

(Blair hand: Fusion Conscription, Reeshaddoll Wendi, Pot of Avarice, Extra-Foolish Burial)

Blair: 'I'll draw and skip straight to battle, where I'll attack with Winda.' Blair's shadow marionette sliced through Shay's Napalm Dragonius (Def.:1000), causing it to go boom. 'When Napalm's destroyed, it's replaced by another Raidraptor from my deck, but it loses any effects. I summon Raidraptor - Singing Lanius (Atk:100).' 'Enjoy having it around, because at the end of this duel, the only song you'll be singing is why does it always rain on me. I end my turn.'

(Shay hand: Raidraptor - Bloom Vulture, Raidraptor - Noir Lanius, Rank-up-Magic - Double Doom Force, Raidraptor - Mimicry Lanius)

Shay: 'I draw. I'll start with my face-down Glorious Bright.' As he did, Singing Lanius flew up high into the air, catching rays from the sun as it did, and directing them straight into the eyes of Winda. 'You know the scenario, beautiful sunny day, rays beating down, Winda's effect being negated, it's a great day to be a bird. Especially now I can use the effect of Bloom Vulture to summon itself and Mimicry Lanius (Atk:300,1100).'

'Afterwards, Mimicry will use its effect, giving each of my monsters a one Level boost, which I'm sure will make you cry (Level:4-5). And I'll overlay the three of them to build the overlay network. Birds of a feather, fly together and swoop for success, descend from the skies when you hear my cry, Rank 5, Raidraptor - Blaze Falcon (Atk:500). Now Blaze Falcon will attack your Winda.' As he did this, Blair was immediately on edge for what was to come next, aware that he wouldn't be suiciding his monster without good reason (Shay LP:8000-6300). And as it would turn out, she was right.

'Now I've done that I can use this - my Rank-up-Magic Double Doom Force. Because a Raidraptor Xyz was destroyed by battle this turn, I can revive it (Atk:500), and then rank it up into an Xyz monster TWICE THE RANK!' This should have struck fear into his opponent, but instead, Shay looked up to see a totally different Blair, as she was on her haunches, her muscles were tensed up, and a mad smile was plastered across her face. But then, he laughed.

'Seems like I just woke the sleeping beast. Well it's time to take the beast behind the sheds and rip its head off! I Xyz summon Rank 10 Raidraptor - Ultimate Falcon (Atk:3500). Ultimate Falcon, attack. Broadside Barrage!' The eight-winged Falcon soared into the sky, before crashing down from an extreme angle, smashing through the side of Winda in a brutal barrage (Blair LP:8000-6700). 'Winda's demise will add Shaddoll Fusion back to my hand.' 'I'll end my turn. During the End phase, because you control no monsters, Ultimate Falcon will take down 1000 of your Life points (Blair LP:6700-5700).'

(Blair hand: Fusion Conscription, Reeshaddoll Wendi, Pot of Avarice, Extra-Foolish Burial, Shaddoll Fusion, Predaplant Ophrys Scorpio)

Blair: 'This… is what I live for! I'll draw and set a monster, before passing my turn.' 'And here I thought the competitive beast was awake.' 'She is, but this beast isn't some uncontrolled animal, she stalks her prey.'

(Shay hand: Raidraptor - Noir Lanius, Raidraptor - Fuzzy Lanius)

Shay: 'I draw. I'll summon Raidraptor - Noir Lanius (Atk:1600). And because I control it, I can summon Fuzzy Lanius to join the flock (Atk:1100). But they're about to merge their power through the overlay network. Saddle up, Rank 4, Raider's Knight (Atk:2000).' 'Playing horsies now?' Blair quipped, clearly enjoying the tension. 'You can laugh, but you're not going to be when Raider's Knight detaches a material to summon a Raidraptor which is one Rank higher. I summon Rank 5, Raidraptor - Brave Strix (Atk:2000).'

'Now Brave Strix can use its own effect to detach a material and add Rank-up-Magic Revolution Force to my hand. And I think I'll go ahead and activate Revolution Force, to rank up Brave Strix into a monster which is one Rank higher. Heed the warning siren of the skies, and prepare for the revolution to be brutalised! I Xyz summon Rank 6, Raidraptor - Revolution Falcon - Air Raid (Atk:2000). And with the effect of Brave Strix as material, it gains 100 more Attack for each Rank it has (Atk 2000-2600). Revolution Falcon destroys your monster now.' Shay's Falcon flew in at high speed, colliding violently with Blair's monster (Reeshaddoll Wendi Def.:1000), destroying it. 'Wendi's effect will summon Shaddoll Beast face-down from my deck.' 'I don't care, it'll go the same way.' Ultimate Falcon swooped through Beast (Def.:1700), splitting it into pieces with the sheer force of the attack. 'With Beast I'll draw two then discard one.' 'You can do what you like, because at the End phase, I'll deal another 1000 damage (Blair LP:5700-4700).'

(Blair hand: Pot of Avarice, Extra-Foolish Burial, Shaddoll Fusion, Predaplant Orthys Scorpio, Dark World Dealings, Shaddoll Squamata)

Blair: 'I'll draw and activate Extra-Foolish Burial, paying half of my Life points (Blair LP:4700-2350) to send El Shaddoll Apkallone to my graveyard. That triggers its effect, returning Helshaddoll Hollow to my hand. Then I'll Dark World Dealings, so we both draw one and then we discard one. Meaning that when I discard Squamata, its effect activates, sending Wendi to the graveyard. And then Wendi's effect will set Helshaddoll Hollow onto my field from my deck. Now I'll activate Shaddoll Fusion, and because you control an Extra deck monster, I can use monsters in my deck for the summon. I'll fuse Qadshaddoll Keios and Shaddoll Falco to Fusion summon the puppeteered priestess designed for perfect balance and grace. Resurrect, El Shaddoll Apkallone (Atk:2500). And it's going to negate the effects of Revolution Falcon.' At this moment, she saw the road to victory right in front of her, and seized the opportunity.

'I'll activate Falco's effect to revive itself from the graveyard, and then Keios' ability will send Hollow from my hand to the graveyard and increase the Attack of all the monsters on my field by its Level x100.' 'You don't have any strong monsters though' Shay responded in laughter. 'No, but I do have Sol and Luna, flipping Hollow up and Revolution Falcon face-down.' Shay continued laughing right until he put the pieces together. 'Hang on… WHAT!? (Hollow Atk:2900-3800, Apkallone Atk:2500-3400). 'Now destroy Ultimate Falcon with Spiritual Inferno!' Hollow burned brightly, and with a single touch turned the mighty bird into ashes (Shay LP:6300-5900). 'Then I'll destroy your Air Raid with Apkallone.' Blair's second Fusion monster pointed its mirror at Air Raid, swamping it with a surge of water. 'I'll end my turn (Atk:3800-2900; 3400-2500).

As she did, the crowd applauded the skillful play, while Shay mentally marvelled. ("The way she weaved her way through that, that isn't training, that's dedication and skill. I'm facing something special here"). Blair though didn't seem interested in the plaudits. 'Take your turn so I can beat you Shay. I didn't come here to play games, I came so I could conquer you.' With a sharp look in her eyes, she stated 'And that's exactly what I'm going to do.'

(Shay hand: Rank-up-Magic Skip Force)

Shay: 'You don't think I'm just going to give up do you? I activate Rank-up Magic Skip Force. This will target Ultimate Falcon, and summon a monster who's two Ranks higher with it as material.' 'You know, all this reviving could be classed as necromancy, not sure how your teammate feels about that.' 'Caleb lets things slide because it's me and stuff. But I'm not letting anything slide, because you're about to encounter the threat even deadlier than Ultimate Falcon. Raidraptor - Final Fortress Falcon (Atk:3800).'

'Final Fortress Falcon, attack and destroy Hollow. Ruby Revenge!' Final Fortress surged into Hollow, causing a rending sound as it flew out the other side in flames, and Hollow disintegrated into nothing (Blair LP:2350-1450). 'And because it destroyed your monster, I can banish Blaze Falcon for another attack, so swoop back in!' Final Fortress Falcon turned around from its previous attack, and slammed straight into Apkallone, as Blair's points tumbled (Blair LP:1450-150). 'I'll end my turn.'

Blair then laughed as she wiped a bead of sweat from her head. 'It's been a while since I felt this alive. You're real good. But I wouldn't get too confident, I'm not exactly bad myself.' 'Yeah, I know, the hype's real. I remember seeing you years ago on the amateur circuit and knowing you were going to be the best one day.' 'You're not exactly a stranger yourself. But stranger or not, I'm still going to win.'

(Blair hand: Fusion Conscription, Pot of Avarice, Predaplant Orthys Scorpio, Gift of the Martyr)

Blair: 'I'll draw and activate Gift of the Martyr, tributing Winda to increase the Attack of Apkallone for the rest of the turn (Atk:2200-4700). Then I'll use the effect of Apkallone to add Shaddoll Fusion from my deck to my hand, and then discard one card. Now I'll use Shaddoll Fusion, sending Qadshaddoll Keios and Shaddoll Beast to my graveyard to Fusion summon El Shaddoll Construct (Atk:2800).' 'Impressive' 'Who said I'm done? I'll summon Predaplant Ophrys Scorpio (Atk:1200), using its effect to send Fusion Conscription to my graveyard and summon Predaplant Darlingtonia Cobra (Atk:1000).'

'Now Cobra can search Super Polymerisation for me. And I'll use it, fusing together my two Predaplants to Fusion summon Starving Venom Fusion Dragon (Atk:2800). And that gives me more than enough firepower to take you down. Apkallone, destroy Final Fortress Falcon.' Apkallone's watery blast crushed the Falcon under its huge weight, dealing a slim amount of damage (Shay LP:5900-5000). 'And now for the final blows.' Starving Venom's orbs lit up, and it released a putrid purple stream as Construct fired a wire straight at Shay, securing the victory for Blair (Shay LP:5000-0).

After the duel ended, Blair went to walk away, but seeing the cameras, she took her opportunity, and picked a microphone up. 'This is a message for the Board of Directors - if you're so happy to give everyone who just turns up here a WDC Championship opportunity, because you can't find enough competition here? Well newsflash, there's someone you forgot along the way - ME. For four years I've been in the WDC, I've been a professional, I've possibly even been pretty damn impressive. But I've never even had so much as a sniff of an opportunity. So I'm going to make it very clear so you understand what's going to happen - I want a title shot, and I want it in Toronto. Because I refuse to continue waiting.' She then stormed off, the crowd showing much interest in the possibility of her getting a title shot.

Backstage, she found Bolton, only to find that Phil was already in discussions with him. 'So here's the deal, I accept her challenge, you let me.' 'Or, how about a little counter proposal? If you agree to Maddy and Akiza's duel being under Lockdown rules, because the Board are quite sick of this going on by now, and want a decisive finish.' 'That's nothing to do with me, I don't' Before he could finish speaking, Maddy shouted 'Deal!' as she stormed past, before quickly backtracking. 'Dad, you know where Rio or Sak are at?' 'Beats me, I don't have them under GPS.'

She then continued on her warpath, looking for them. Eventually she found Rio, using a bag of frozen peas to try and prevent her foot from swelling. Instead of speaking though, Maddy immediately pinned her against a wall. 'Maddy, the fuck are you doing!?' 'Tryin' to drug us up were ya? Turn us inta some kinda junkie? I told you, I'm past all that shit!' 'I don't have a clue what you're talking about… could you maybe let me breathe a bit? Oxygen's good for thinking.' As Maddy released her grip slightly, the situation became clearer. 'You think it's clever to junk up an ex-addict on Morphine?' 'Junk up? You think that's what it was, junking you up? If you'd have followed ANY doctor's orders you wouldn't have needed it. Quite honestly, I don't deserve suffocating, I deserve a fucking title shot from you, let's face it, me and Sakura are actually more responsible for you still having that damn title than you are!'

'So that's what this is then? You want to soften me up for a title shot? Or you just want the presidency. That's what it is, you're trying to turn me into an addict so I'll be unable to be Pres, and then you can inherit it as my VP. Clever honestly, but no chance, so stop with the fucking Morphine.' Furious, Rio bit back. 'We have to look after you because you won't! You'd rather destroy your own body purely for the sake of proving a point, that point being that you're Maddy, the big brave wolf, everyone applaud her, everyone's envious. Well guess what Madeline, I'm not jealous. Because Riana Julia Kastle never wanted to be president, she was only in the election because Blair put her fucking name in the hat without asking, and now, Riana's resigning - you can find yourself a new V.P.' She then pushed Maddy away as she walked off, totally satisfied at her decision.

While all of this was happening, the cameras were distracted by Belle being interviewed ahead of the main event, hair down and wearing a flat cap. 'Ladies and Ge' 'Save it' Belle interrupted, clearly in a hurry to say what she thought. 'We were talking before, you've seen Akiza's latest plea, your response is?' 'That Akiza's a total weirdo, I mean I've done some fucked up shit, there's a reason I was in Young Offender's, and it wasn't for joyriding, but keeping pictures of people like that? Well creepy.'

'Now you've faced Akiza before, so what are you expecting this time?' 'Same thing, I know how good Akiza can be. I also know I've beaten her before, in fact recently I'm the only person to beat her. And I get her wanting revenge, because it's embarrassing losing to some unknown from Leeds, especially when I was supposed to be the warm-up.' 'There is the spectre of faction warfare, between the Dynasty and Renegades as a whole, and Junction 7. Are you prepared for this?' Belle reached into her pocket and pulled out a solid wrench. 'This is the one warning I'll give - try any funny business, and you're not making it to Toronto, or to Maddy.' As she walked off, she could just be heard thanking Denny for stealing the wrench.

In the zone

After highlights of Belle's first win over Akiza were shown, the Leeds duellist was first to appear, with Freja by her side. 'The following duel is your main event, and is a Grudge Match. Introducing representing the Renegade nation, from Headingley, Leeds, England, honouring the Dynasty, the Silent Assassin - Belle Draper.' As she strode down with purpose, the crowd were, somewhat surprisingly, totally in her favour, but any introduction the commentators could have made was drowned out by Freja shouting vulgar insults towards Akiza.

This somehow encouraged Akiza to make her appearance, with Tee and Lukas by her side, as they carried the standard. 'Introducing her opponent, representing Junction 7, from Tacoma, Washington, the Black Rose - Akiza Izinski.' By the time Akiza had arrived at the zone, Belle's duel disk was already open and lit up in the shape of the white rose of Yorkshire. As Akiza deliberately took her time though, Belle spoke to her. 'You can take however long you like, I'll still be ready.' This made Akiza hurry up, as she was no longer causing the inconvenience she was aiming for.

Grudge Match: Akiza Izinski LP:8000 vs. Belle Draper LP:8000

(Belle hand: Qliphort Cephalopod, Summoner's Art, Advanced Ritual Art, Qliphort Helix, Lose 1 Turn)

Belle: 'I'll start with Summoner's Art, searching out Qliphort Scout. Then I'll scale up Scout, paying 800 (Belle LP:8000-7200), to add Qliphort Monolith to my hand. I'll Normal summon Qliphort Helix (Atk:2400-1800; Level:6-4), and end my turn with a face-down.'

(Akiza hand: Aromaseraphy Jasmine, Blessed Winds, Child's Play, Aromalilith Rosalina, Aroma Gardening)

Akiza: 'I draw. I'll set my stall into bloom with Aroma Gardening and Child's Play, and then I'm bringing out Aromalilith Rosalina (Atk:0). And she can bring out Aromage Bergamot (Atk:2400), while Gardening gives me 1000 Life points for summoning an Aroma monster (Akiza LP:8000-9000). Now I'll tune Level 1 Rosalina to Level 6 Bergamot, and Synchro summon Periallis, the Empress of Blossoms (Def.:2400). And she has an effect which will revive Bergamot to really make you feel the burn.'

'Try making me feel the burn after you Lose 1 Turn. It's a Trap which I can only use if I don't control any Special summoned monsters, and it freezes the effects of all monsters on the turn they're Special summoned, forcing them into Defence.' This angered Akiza, but she kept her cool in the situation. 'I'll end my turn. You're very clever, I'll give you that, or should I say, your master's clever, because after all, you chose his guidance over your own mind.'

(Belle hand: Qliphort Cephalopod, Advanced Ritual Art, Qliphort Monolith, Summon Limit)

Belle: 'I know what you think of me, and I don't care. My loyalty is to the people who gave me a chance when they didn't have to.' 'They should never have allowed you in, some common criminal.' 'You didn't want Blair either, what did she do? You tried to kick Freja and Lydia out, what did they do? I totally get not wanting me, I don't know why I was hunted down, but what did they do apart from disagree with you?'

As Akiza pondered this, Lydia spoke to Belle and made an admission. 'Maddy wanted you because she wanted to prove that the Renegades can support anyone who has been rejected, even convicts.' As Freja admonished her sister for saying anything, Belle shook her head. 'So I'm just some thought experiment?' Seeing the situation escalate, Freja signalled for a short time-out, and she and Lydia tried to explain the situation.

'You didn't give Lyds chance to explain, you're not some experiment.' 'Feels like it.' Lydia then laid the situation out. 'Maddy saw the coverage of your case, didn't think you should be in prison, and realised that everyone was turning their backs on you.' 'And that's what the club was built on wasn't it, that's what you were sold on - a family, one who will never turn their backs on each other, no matter what happened in the past.' 'We were promised from the start that it didn't matter what we'd done before, who we'd been before, this was our chance to make a difference.'

'So I wasn't an experiment?' 'You were an opportunity, and you were someone who deserved a chance' Lydia responded passionately. 'Cause you shouldn't have been sent to juvi for pushing someone.' Freja then tried to keep Belle's focus. 'You get on with smashing her up, and we'll talk later.' 'It's fine, I understand now. But I need you both to leave, k?' Immediately understanding, Freja's response was 'We'll just be the other side of the gate.' With them gone, Belle turned her attention back to the duel.

'I'll use Scout's effect to pay 800 Life points (Belle LP:7200-6400) and add Qliphort Shell to my hand. Then I'll tribute Helix to summon Qliphort Monolith (Atk:2400, Akiza LP:9000-9300). I end my turn with another face-down.' 'Looks like you're just about giving up already.' Belle ignored this comment, as the duel was going precisely how she expected, especially after Akiza revealed her set card. 'I'll activate Blessed Winds, shuffling back Bergamot to gain 500 Life points (Akiza LP:9300-9800). You're never going to beat me.'

(Akiza hand: Aromaseraphy Jasmine, Aromalilith Rosalina)

Akiza: 'I'll draw and I'll plant another Aromalilith Rosalina (Atk:0, Akiza LP:9800-10,800). And I'll use her to summon Aromage Marjoram from my deck (Atk:2000).' 'I hope you enjoyed your turn. Enjoyed being the key word there, because I activate Summon Limit. Now neither of us can summon more than twice in a turn.' 'You should have used it earlier' 'Did you summon twice in the turn? Yes? End of discussion' she responded, to the delight of the fans. 'I end my turn.'

(Belle hand: Qliphort Cephalopod, Advanced Ritual Art, Qliphort Shell, Sacred Sword of Seven Stars)

Belle: 'I'll draw and activate Sacred Sword of Seven Stars, banishing Cephalopod to draw two. One of which was Saqlifice. I'll equip to Monolith (Atk:2400-2700), and then tribute it to summon Qliphort Shell (Atk:2800, Akiza LP:10,800-11,100). Now Shell attacks, and because I tributed a Qli for it, it can attack twice and deal piercing.' 'Child's Play stops my monsters being destroyed when I have 10,000 or more Life points.' 'I know, that's why I can use your Rosalina as target practice. Shell, fire away.' The Shell fired out shrapnel at an incredible velocity, cutting into the fey-like monster on Akiza's field (Akiza LP:11,100-8300). 'And now I can destroy Rosalina.' Shell cut straight through Rosalina this time, taking Akiza down by half in a single turn (Akiza LP:8300-5500). 'I end my turn. Regain all the Life points you can, because it gives me more opportunity to punish you.'

'Funny you talk about punishing me, when you're the common street criminals, especially you, I mean walking away after killing someone, you should be locked up and have the key thrown just out of reach.' 'Me? You should be the one locked up, I might have made a drunk mistake but at least I'm not a pervert!' This struck a nerve, as the animated crowd chanted words that had to be hastily censored from any televised versions of the event, and the atmosphere got increasingly stormy.

(Akiza hand: Aromaseraphy Rosemary, Sauge de Fleur)

Akiza: 'Pervert? You're going to regret calling me that!' Akiza screamed, her power going into overdrive, before she calmed herself down. 'This isn't about me. I'll draw and activate Sauge de Fleur's effect, destroying your Shell and my own Periallis to summon itself (Atk:2900).' 'Because of Lose 1 Turn, your monster's going straight into Defence (Def.:0).' 'That's just fine, because she isn't staying, she's going to the graveyard alongside my Marjoram and Link summoning Aromaseraphy Jasmine (Atk:1800, Akiza LP:5500-6500). Then I'll use Sauge de Fleur's effect to send Periallis back to my deck and add Rosalina from my graveyard to my hand.' 'While I'm at it though, I'll use the effect of Blessed Winds, to restore 500 Life points and add Marjoram back to my deck as well (Akiza LP:6500-7000). I'll then attack with Jasmine.' The fey Jasmine fired twinkling stars out of her wand, which took Akiza back into the lead (Belle LP:6400-4600). 'Your go.'

(Belle hand: Advanced Ritual Art, Qliphort Monolith, Fairy Wind)

Belle: 'I draw and I'll activate the effect of Scout (Belle LP:4600-3800), to add Qliphort Carrier to my hand. Then I'll scale up Scale 1 Monolith, and Pendulum summon Shell from my Extra deck (Def.:1000, Level:6-4). And that allows me to tribute it for Qliphort Carrier (Atk:2400, Akiza LP:6500-6800). And it's going to sweep past your Jasmine.' Belle's Carrier floated overhead, and dropped a single explosive on the head of Jasmine, blowing her to bits (Akiza LP:6800-6200). I'll end my turn, and draw a card through Monolith.'

(Akiza hand: Aromage Rosemary, Aromalilith Rosalina, Aroma Blend)

Akiza: 'I draw. I'll use the effect of Blessed Winds, paying 1000 (Akiza LP:6200-5200), and bringing back Jasmine (Atk:1800). I'll delay using my Gardening's effect though, because I'm summoning Aromage Rosemary (Atk:1800), then gain my 1000 (Akiza LP:5200-6200). This triggers the effect of Rosemary, to switch your carrier to Defence (Def.:1000). Rosemary, attack.' Mystical blue fibres scattered over the Carrier, quickly rusting it from the inside out, and causing it to disintegrate peacefully. 'Now I'll Link off Jasmine and Rosemary to Link summon Link 3, Aromalilith Rosemary (Atk:2200). I end my turn.' 'And when you do, I'll activate Life Absorbing Machine.'

(Belle hand: Advanced Ritual Art, Fairy Wind, Apoqliphort Skybase, Rainbow Life)

Belle: 'I'll draw and at my Standby phase, Life Absorbing Machine has a nice little top-up, giving me back half of whatever Life points I paid last turn (Belle LP:3800-4200). Now I'll pay 800 with Scout (Belle LP:4200-3400), and add Qliphort Helix to my hand. Then I'll Pendulum summon Qliphort Carrier (Def.:1000), and tribute it for Helix (Atk:2400, Akiza LP:6200-6500). That unlocks the ability of Carrier.'

'You Special summoned it' Akiza responded. 'The innocence of youth, not understanding how your cards affect you.' 'That's where you're wrong… well the latest place' Belle responded cheekily. 'You see, Carrier's effect only activates if tributed. And guess where cards aren't after being tributed. If you said on the field, you're starting to catch on, not that it's helping you. Carrier's effect will send your monster straight back to your Extra deck.' 'So it will…' Akiza said calmly while watching her monster vanish in a traction beam. 'Helix, attack.' A pair of laser beams emerged from the twisted Helix, and scanned the ground, hitting Akiza several times in the process (Akiza LP:6500-4100). 'I end my turn with another face-down.'

(Akiza hand: Aromalilith Rosalina, Cosmic Cyclone)

Akiza: 'I'll draw and activate Cosmic Cyclone, paying 1000 Life points (Akiza LP:4100-3100), and banishing your Lose 1 Turn. And good riddance.' As Akiza rid herself of the card which had caused her so many issues, she visibly got more confident. Belle didn't seem to lose any heart though; rather, she remarked that she 'didn't expect it to last that long if anything.' This gave Akiza the chance to get something going again though.

'Summon Rosalina (Atk:0), effect' 'Fairy Wind' Belle responded, seemingly knowing where the situation was going. This saw all the Spells and Traps on the field get destroyed, but Belle's face-down Rainbow Life turned the tables on the damage (Belle LP:3400-4900; Akiza LP:3100-1600, Bergamot Atk:2400). This put Akiza in a very perilous situation, so she chose the only way out. 'I'll tune Level 1 Rosalina with Level 6 Bergamot to summon Circle of the Fairies (Def.:2500). I end my turn.' At this point, Junction 7 rushed out and surrounded Belle, only for the Renegades to surround them in turn. As the tense stand-off continued, Belle calmly took her next turn.

(Belle hand: Advanced Ritual Art, Apoqliphort Skybase, Qlipper Launch)

Belle: 'I draw. I'll set this face-down and end my turn.'

(Akiza hand: Defence Draw)

Akiza: 'I'll draw, and set this, before ending my turn.'

(Belle hand: Advanced Ritual Art, Apoqliphort Skybase, Lilith, Lady of Lament)

Belle: 'I'll draw and summon Lilith, the Lady of Lament (Atk:2000-1000). By tributing her, I can choose three Trap cards in my deck, and you have to choose one for me to set on my field. The others are shuffled back.' She then picked up three copies of Qlife's End. 'What's this…' 'The illusion of choice.' Belle responded confidently. At this moment, David went to punch Belle, but before he could be warned off by Akiza, Rio casually kicked him out of mid-air, before raising the red right hand in Maddy's face. By this time, Belle had set the Trap.

'Helix, attack. And when it does, I'll activate my face-down Qlipper Launch. This gives it 300 more Attack and makes it immune to your card effects this turn.' As the power boost from Launch spurred it onwards (Atk:2400-2700), Circle of the Fairies was executed, laser style. 'I end my turn. Come on Akiza, where's the fight? I don't want to beat some shadow of you, I embarrassed her in Japan. I want to face the Black Rose, and I want to beat it.'

(Akiza hand: Red Rose Dragon)

Akiza: 'The Black Rose is… hibernating. For a special occasion. Which you very much are NOT. You're not even close to my level.' 'That why I'm winning?' Belle responded, the crowd hanging off her every word at this point. 'I'll just end my turn. You're not going to beat me.'

(Belle hand: Advanced Ritual Art, Apoqliphort Skybase, Qliphort Disc)

Belle: 'I'll draw and flip up Qlife's End. Then I'll use it as the three tributes it counts as to summon something slightly… bigger. Descend, Apoqliphort Skybase (Atk:2900).' As the gargantuan Skybase lowered itself, Akiza readied for a fight. 'Skybase, attack.' 'I'll activate my face-down Defence Draw. This changes the battle damage to 0, and draws another card for me.' 'You can run, but you can't hide from Helix. Or as Maddy might say, you don't know what's hiding in the DNA!'

Belle's mimicry got her a sharp look from Maddy, but cheers from the crowd. It wasn't quite to be though, as Akiza had an answer. 'I'll summon Crying Ogre because you attacked for a second time. Its Attack is equal to that of Skybase (Atk:2900).' 'I'll cancel the attack and end my turn. Feeling the pressure yet? All this hype and you're going to lose to some kid from Leeds again.'

(Akiza hand: Red Rose Dragon, White Rose Dragon)

Akiza: 'Draw.' Seeing the card, she breathed again. 'Consider this a little payback! I summon White Rose Dragon (Atk:1000), and it can make the Red Rose Dragon bloom on my field (Atk:1000). Now I'll tune them both together to summon my icon, the Black Rose Dragon (Atk:2400). And my Red Rose has a little trick of her own, helping to grow my field with a Rose Dragon from my deck. I'll summon Roxrose Dragon (Atk:1600), and now, my full field can bloom! Maddy, this is a taste of your future! Prepare to meet Blood Rose Dragon!'

Before she could summon it though, the duel concluded with an announcement. 'Due to the interference of David Marshall, your winner by result of a disqualification, Belle Draper.' There was no chance to celebrate as Tee struck Belle from behind, encouraging both factions to engage in a huge brawl. Wave after wave of security then poured out, until eventually about thirty or so of them were able to contain the situation, as Bolton watched on sternly from the centre.

Alpharic Legends Chapter VI

'The Alpha was strong and she was wise, she was brave and she showed compassion for her allies and enemies alike. But her enemies grew and they grew stronger, they took advantage of her compassion, turned her allies against her, and made her regret her bravery. For the time of calling was near, and she was about to face the most critical decisions of her life, where choosing was not simply a matter of honour nor dishonour, but a decision that could spell not only her doom, but the fall of her pack, and her species.'

Next time: Evidence is uncovered, Blair tries to accept Ally's possibilities, and Maddy makes a discovery which forces her into an impossible decision, in Renegades: A New Dawn Chapter 75: State of Play