R:Ultra Evolution

by Primal WolfBlood

Follow the Renegades as they continue their quest for fixing the world, taking on all comers, including fellow revolutionaries Junction 7 led by their unhinged leader Rhydian, and the sinister Style Council, led by the devilish Caprice. To survive in this cut-throat world, they will have to evolve their power even further beyond. It's a battle for success and survival.

7. Stealthy Shoots

R: Ultra Evolution

Book 7: Stealthy Shoots

WDC World Tour: Auckland card:

LFD Doubles Championships: Junction 7 (Kieran Byrne/Nash) vs. [c] The Cast (Jade Goocheneyad/Brooke Angharad)

Freja McKinna vs. Aster Phoenix

WDC Tag-Team Championships: Dynasty (Kenzie Calhoun/Denzil Davis) vs. [c] Junction 7 (Maddy Smith/Shannon Kelly)

Non-Title duel: Rhydian Morris vs. Belle Draper

The night before the event, 11pm, Renegades HQ

All was quiet at the base aside from Rio, who was still working hard on a plan of action. 'So if we get Maddy on her own, the strategy is to restrain her, problem being I don't know how we restrain her, so restraining is probably out of the question, we can't knock her out outside of Blair if she really gets in a mood and maybe Astrid if she brings herself to actually come. Don't know if that really helps at all, but'

Her murmurings were interrupted by a knock on the door. 'Didn't think anyone else would be up at this time. Come in.' The door swung open, and Blair walked in, wearing an aqua blue nightshirt and minishorts. 'Yes mother, I'm going to be done in a few minutes.' 'That's not why I'm here, there's something… I've been keeping something from you for a few days. About Belle.' 'Go on…' 'She's not turned on us, she's acting as a double agent. Because she told me she was going to.' Blair then began explaining what had happened.

Six days before

As the chaos continued in the base, Blair was in the office, writing down everything she knew about Maddy's manipulation. 'So we know Rhydian's got control of her, and we know it's real deep. Looks like it was some kind of spell that Maddy inflicted herself, but I don't know why, and surely it's more than just that. And how did he organise something so complicated from prison.' Her musings were then interrupted by a hammering on the door. 'Come in!' she snapped, annoyed at a lack of progress.

As she did, Belle quietly sneaked in, with a light grey hoodie on, her hair wrapped up tightly. 'Sorry Belle, I didn't realise it was you, what's up?' 'Oh you know, the usual.' 'Yeah I get it.' 'Look, I wanted to talk to you, I've had an idea for finding out exactly what's going on with Maddy, but… I can only tell you.' Immediately Blair understood why. 'This is going to be big isn't it?' 'Yep.' The interim vice-president nodded, and shut the door, before sitting back down.

'Right, I can sense this is going to be a cracker.' 'I… think I have a way to turn the tables. Because we're constantly looking over our shoulders, waiting for them to strike again, right?' 'Tell me about it.' 'So, what if we made them look over their shoulders? Make them so paranoid that they stop focusing on what they're doing?' 'I… don't quite get where you're going with this. What are you suggesting?' Belle took a deep breath, and her hands started trembling as she blurted the plan out.

'What if I went off my meds and started hanging around with them as a double agent?' Blair's eyes opened wide as saucers as she heard the plan. 'Absolutely categorically not, I am NOT, and I mean NOT, putting you through that. I know how much your issues tear you apart as it is.' 'Please, I want to use this thing for good. When I was stuck in Young Offenders, I didn't think I had a future. Maddy reached out to me, she gave me something, she gave me a future and a purpose and a family. If I'm paranoid like that, maybe, just maybe, it's going to make them look over their shoulders.'

'Not happening.' Belle continued to plead regardless though. 'Maddy took a chance on me when nobody else would, so much good has come from her, and I literally wouldn't be able to forgive myself if I didn't help her. I'm not trying to twist your arm, I'm just trying to… someone's got to do something, because what we're doing right now isn't going to help at all. And my mental health's caused me so many issues, why can't I use it for something positive?'

Hearing the plea, Blair groaned, before writing something down furiously. 'Right, I'm going to allow it.' 'Thank you!' Blair still had a stern face though. 'I have conditions. 1. You are there specifically as a double agent, meaning that where possible, you are only an observer. You do not get involved, you play dumb, you know nothing. 2. You tell NOBODY about our agreement - not Rio, not Phil, not your aunt's dog, NOBODY. If you tell one soul about this, our agreement is void. 3. You have to report everything back to me. Every time you've been with them, I want a full debrief at the earliest opportunity.'

She then reached into the drawer beside her left leg, easing it open and producing what appeared to be a small capsule. 'What's that - cyanide?' 'Trust me I'd love some right now. No, it's Mustard Gas. If you're found out or you need to escape for whatever reason, throw this and run for your life - it's on a 30 second timer, and will blind them for about 20 minutes. Ring us and we'll send Jana or Jade to get you. Ok?' 'Understood.' She then held her hand out. 'Phone.'

As Belle passed it over, Blair unlocked it, and then entered a number into her phone. 'I've put in the number for my satellite phone, it never goes anywhere without me. If you're in trouble, ring that number, it's saved as Elena Ali.' 'Why Elena Ali?' 'My middle names. If they ask at any time' Belle then instinctively replied 'Elena was my best friend who I killed, I keep her phone number to remind me.' 'Got it in one.' As she turned to leave though, Blair called her back. 'Oh Belle.' As she turned, the VP simply said 'Be careful out there, don't put yourself in danger.' 'Thanks. Look after Freja, she'll be cut up by this but I hope in time she'll understand.' 'I won't tell her until you do. But I'll look after her.'

End of flashback

Hearing this, Rio was distinctly unimpressed. 'So you were pulling strings all along then?' 'Not pulling strings, it was the day before you took the presidency and I didn't feel like I had the time to consult you.' Surprisingly, Rio then gave a very composed reaction. 'You were right. You know how much I trust your opinion and instincts, so I suggest that you just keep up communications.' 'I'll forward every single message to you, she's contacting my satellite phone.'

'So it's only been going on a few days?' 'I promise, she only told me just before she was leaving.' Rio then decided to use the instincts of her friend. 'Right, we have a call to make. In your opinion, if we tell Freja, will she cause issues?' 'I fully believe that she'll go straight after Belle to talk sense into her. Freja's grown a lot, but she's still impulsive. If we tell her, then Belle's entire cover could be blown, and that puts them both in danger.'

'Is there nothing we can do in terms of Freja morphing and sending her over there?' ;Even if she could hold it for long enough which is at best undetermined, Belle's been reporting that Maddy's pretty much never been out of Rhydian's sight. There really wouldn't be any opportunity to get in there without putting herself right in harm's way.' 'So that's not going to be our opportunity, ok.' 'Belle said she's going to try and spread paranoia in them, so if Rhydian's as volatile as he used to be, hopefully he can make them all apart.' 'Well as I say, just keep in contact, if she's in danger we get her out.'

On the road to to Toronto Airport

Junction 7 were on the road to the airport, not that Rhydian was happy about it. 'You'd think that if my opponent's now with us then I wouldn't be needed here, but no, that genius Bolton decided I have to come anyway just so he can show we're coming or something stupid like that. I swear if he starts messing us around there's going to be trouble. Because he's not taking my girl away from me.' Next to him, Maddy sat silent, a change from the screaming that had filled large amounts of the previous few days, while Belle was secretly taking notes to pass on later.

Among the notes was the fate of the gangsters who had attacked the condo several days before, as they were all crippled by Maddy, who in her spell was becoming more and more aggressive, a warning sign that hadn't yet been seen by Rhydian. She kicked Jimmy McLaren's head into a wall, broke Stephen Banks' back in a most violent fashion by repeatedly ramming hi into the corner of a doorframe, and strangled Ed Lander, leaving him in a critical condition in hospital with severe brain damage. It was killing her inside, but Rhydian didn't seem to have any concerns over it.

In the hotel the next day

Rio was waiting, when Donny walked in, now sporting a clean buzzcut and shaved face, and wearing sunglasses. 'So you wanted to work with us?' In a strangely cockney accent, he responded 'Yeah, I saw all that going on with Maddy, I don't like it, and you know what I think of her… and you.' 'You're not telling me anything I don't know here.' 'Look, there ain't much to say, you need help getting to her, and I'm up for a rumble or two. I'll do whatever you need me to, I just want to get in there and wreck some fucking idiots.' Hearing this was enough for Rio to elicit a slight smile. 'Right, let's get down to business on how you can help.'

In the arena

Junction 7 were just walking into the arena, when Belle (holding towards the back) heard Bolton talking on the phone, and in a split second decision, stopped to listen to what he was saying, the content of which shocked her. 'Well I'm going to be getting that brainless bimbo in bed in the next few days, £20,000 and I'm going to break my deck. In fact I might just not give her back, it's not like anybody would notice she's gone.'

Having heard this, Belle made her way to the front of the group, and found Rhydian. 'Master Rhydian, you need to be careful of Bolton, i heard him on the phone saying he was paying £20,000 for sex with Maddy.' This enraged Rhydian instantly. 'He's going to wish he never said that.' He then patter her on the head. 'You're a good little pet, you know that? I might just keep you around without putting you in the hive mind.'

In the zone

The show was opened by Junction 7, now being joined by Belle, much to the shock of the crowd. And he was ready to gloat all day. 'It feels good to have everything. I thought having Maddy AND my title was the jackpot, but man, another Renegade? Belle's here because she flew out to see me, she told me that I was right. But why would I tell you that, when I can have Belle tell you everything?'

She was handed the microphone, and nervelessly, she calmly stated 'I didn't join Junction 7 because I hate the Renegades, I didn't join because I wanted to prove a point. I have only joined because I have to do what is right for Maddy, and be with the one person who has always believed in me and is the reason I'm even here.' Rhydian then received the microphone back, but the moment he went to speak, Sound of the Underground played, and Belle looked fearful as Freja surged out, going after her, only for the Dynasty's music to immediately follow as Phil held her back.

'LET ME GO! LET ME AT HER!' 'Freja, time and a place.' 'YEAH, NOW!' 'Time and a place' he repeated, before he had a quiet word with her away from any microphones. 'If you go after her now, the only person who suffers is you. You're going to get destroyed and probably end up like them, and I know you're hurting, but none of us want that to happen. You've got a duel later, take your anger out there.' As she seethed and simmered, Phil turned around, and he was ready to unleash a volcano himself.

'Smirk away, because you're an absolute SCUMBAG! You don't care about Maddy at all, you would have let her go otherwise' 'Hang on' 'No, you hang on! Learn some respect son, I'm talking so you shut the fuck up, sit your smirking face on the floor where you belong, and I'll tell you when you can speak, because this might be "your world", but this is MY UNIVERSE! Daniel Smith was a good man, a good, decent, honest man, and he didn't deserve a single thing that happened to him. It's only through a miracle that it isn't two bodies.'

This seemed to catch Rhydian off guard. 'Hang on, what do you' Before he could finish his sentence though, Emma walked out, wearing a cast for her broken arm and wearing a brace on her back, as Rhydian looked on in absolute shock, and Maddy stared on completely blankly. Except Phil didn't seem to think she was, as he took the opportunity to stroll right up to her, and speak to her face, as if he was talking directly to her soul.

'Look at you Maddy, look at what you've become. You're emptier than a nun's underwear!' As the lively crowd groaned at the words, he continued. 'Except… maybe you're not. Because I can see you, and I can see that you're still in there. Far away and yet so close. Because no matter what he thinks or what Segolia or whoever else have told you, you're never not going to be in there. And as long as you are, we will find you.'

He then turned his attention back to Rhydian. 'Now to the small matter of our rematch.' Rhydian grinned in response, before turning to his allies. 'He thinks he's getting a rematch, can you believe that, he actually thinks' His laughing was stopped by Phil speaking again. 'Oh you'll want to hear this by the way, because this is a deal money can't buy. I want my title rematch in the main event, but true to Dynasty form, I don't expect it for free. If I lose, then I will resign my card and my professional career is over. Because if I can't beat you straight up, I don't deserve to be here.'

This came as a shock to everyone, not least Rhydian, who laughed. 'You really think you can get around me by putting your career on the line don't you? Well guess what…' He then spoke in Phil's face. 'You're right, you've got a deal. See you in the main event.' 'Pleasure to do business with you.' Phil then threatened to punch Rhydian, causing Maddy to launch herself at him, only for Freja to push him out of the way and leapfrog Maddy in one fluid movement, allowing the deposed champion to kick his opponent in the groin instead, before leaving. Freja and Belle then locked eyes, before Freja walked away from her, as Belle stared at her back.

Backstage, Aster Phoenix was in Bolton's office, giving him a hard time. 'Give me what I want then - the WDC Championship. Because I'm not letting a big lump or a little weed hold it any longer.' 'Aster, I've been through this with you, the Board won't let me give a title shot out. I'm already in enough hot water with them, but that's irrelevant. The most I can do is promise that the winner of your duel with Freja gets a future title shot.' Huffing, he responded 'That will do, I'll have to make mincemeat of whatever her name is.' As he walked out of the office, he bumped shoulders with Rhydian, who had Maddy and Belle by his side. 'What can I do for you?' 'We need a conversation about our arrangement.'

In the zone

Kieran and Nash were out first for the Doubles Championship duel, with the commentary team still busy discussing the implications of the main event. 'The following duel is for the LFD Doubles Championships, introducing first, representing Junction 7, the team of Kieran Byrne and Nash.' The challengers looked confident, being the clear favourites for the duel, as the crowd watched on in relative silence. As they reached the centre, they raised their arms together, before preparing to duel.

As they did so, Jade and Brooke's music played, and they got a great response coming out with their newly won titles. 'Introducing their opponents, representing the Renegades, the LFD Doubles Champions, the team of Jade Goocheneyad and Brooke Angharad, The Cast.' The champions carried their belts with pride through the arena, signing a few autographs along the way, and in the zone, posed together with them, the champions being largely all smiles before their duel. The two teams faced off with Jade and Brooke lifting their belts high before handing the titles over as the duel began.

LFD Doubles Championships: Junction 7 (Kieran Byrne/Nash Kastle) LP:8000 vs. [c] The Cast (Jade Goocheneyad/Brooke Angharad) LP:8000

(Kieran hand: Superheavy Samurai Blue Brawler, Superheavy Samurai Soulbeads, Superheavy Samurai Prodigy Wakaushi, Superheavy Samurai Scales, Superheavy Samurai Soulpiercer)

Turn 1: Kieran: 'I'll start with Prodigy Wakaushi in the Pendulum zone, using its effect to place Monk Big Benkei in the Pendulum zone, and then summon itself (Atk:1000). Then it will discard Soulbeads to summon a Big Benkei from my deck (Atk:1000). I'll equip Soulpiercer from my hand to Wakaushi, and then Synchro them both off for the Level 12 Superheavy Samurai Brave Masurawo (Def.:4000).'

'Now that triggers Soulpiercer to add Magnet to my hand. Magnet summon (Atk:900), and it's going to summon Scales (Atk:800; Magnet Def.:1900). Scales effect revives the Prodigy Wakaushi, and I'll Synchro again, three Level 4 monsters into Superheavy Samurai Steam Train King (Def.:4200). Now I'll Monk Big Benkei effect in my scale to add Soulshield Wall, then I'll equip it to Masurawo (Def.:4000-5200). That's the turn.'

(Brooke hand: Magical Citadel of Endymion, Mythical Bestiary, Spellbook of Secrets, Servant of Endymion, Magister of Endymion)

Brooke: 'I'll draw and activate Magical Citadel of Endymion. Then I'll set Magister of Endymion in my first scale (Citadel SC:0-1) and Servant of Endymion in the other (Citadel SC:1-2, Magister SC:0-1). Now I'll activate Mythical Bestiary; by sending two from the top of my deck to the grave, I can place two Spell Counters on Servant. Which increases as I activated another Spell card (Servant SC:0-3, Citadel SC:2-3, Magister SC:1-2). Servant effect, I'll summon itself and Magical Exemplar (Atk:700;1700, SC:0-1x2).'

Immediately, Nash recognised that there was something unusual about the way she was playing. 'This isn't the normal way to play this… what's she up to?' 'Next I'll activate the Spellbook of Secrets. This lets me pilfer any Spellbook Spell that happens to be in my deck, and I think you all know a thing or two about secret spells. So I'll take Spellbook of Knowledge (Magister SC:2-3, Citadel SC:3-4, Exemplar SC:0-2). Now I'll Link off Servant to summon Link 1, Artemis, the Magistus Moon Maiden (Atk:800).'

'Then I can use the Spellbook of Knowledge. By sending Artemis to the graveyard, I can draw two cards (Magister SC:3-4, Citadel SC:4-5, Exemplar SC:2-4). Then I'll use Magister's effect (SC:4-0), to summon itself and Servant (Atk:1500,900; SC:0-1x2). Now I'll activate Spell Power Channelling. This counts up the number of Spell cards in my graveyard, and then places that many Spell counters on the field. Afterwards, I can summon a Spellcaster from my deck whose Level is equal to the amount of Counters I placed. So that's three counters, plus the ones gained from activating a Spell card. I'll place all the counters on my Citadel (Magister SC:4-5, Citadel SC:5-9, Exemplar SC:4-6, Magister SC:1-2, Servant SC:1-2).'

'And the monster that I'll summon is the Tuner monster Angraecum Umbrella (Atk:500). Now Level 3 Umbrella tunes to Level 3 Servant of Endymion. You know how the term goes, win by any means necessary? Well let's try the theory, I summon Tempest Magician (Atk:2200).' This was when Nash saw what she was trying. 'The FTK?' He smiled to himself and shook his head. 'Kids these days.' 'When she's summoned, Tempest gains a Spell Counter (SC:0-1). And by removing every Spell Counter from my field, she can deal 500 damage for every one removed. I'm counting a whopping 23, which is 11,500 points of damage. Fire away!'

Tempest swung her twice-spiked scythe repeatedly, reaping the Spell Counters as she did, before charging up a fizzing blast of orange explosive energy from the front head of the weapon, shocking its way into the challengers, as Nash responded. 'I activate Evil 1 from my hand, this allows us to survive with 1 Life point (Junction 7 LP:8000-1).' As the crowd cheered the challengers, Brooke tried to put up more resistance. 'I can still finish my turn, so I'll Link off my Exemplar and Tempest to summon Aussa, the Earth Channeler, Immovable (Atk:1850).'

'And she can revive an Earth monster from your graveyard, but summon it to my side. I'll summon Superheavy Samurai Scales (Def.:1900), then link off it and Aussa immediately for Selene, Queen of the Master Magicians (Atk:1850). Selene gains a Spell Counter for every Spell in my graveyard, and by removing three (SC:4-1), I can revive Exemplar (Atk:1700), and link again into Link 4, Worldsea Dragon Zealantis (Atk:2500). I end my turn.'

(Nash hand: Buzzsaw Shark, Lantern Shark, Shark Stickers, Left-Hand Shark, Xyz Reflect)

Nash: 'I'll draw and summon Lantern Shark (Atk:1500). And it's going to summon Left-Hand Shark (Atk:1300). Now I can also summon Shark Stickers (Atk:200). That means I can overlay all three of my monsters to Xyz summon Ashura King (Atk:2100). I end my turn setting one.'

(Jade hand: Gold Sarcophagus, Future Visions, Fortune Lady Light, Fortune's Future, Fortune's Future)

Jade: 'I draw and I'm going to activate Future Visions.' No sooner had the room opened up, then Jade was swinging it into action. 'I'll Normal summon Fortune Lady Light. When she vanishes due to my card, I can summon Fortune Lady Earth from my deck (Atk:2400). Then I can use Gold Sarcophagus, banishing Fortune Lady Fire, but it will return in two turns. But now I can use two copies of Fortune's Future. For each one, I return one of my banished Fortune Ladies to the graveyard, and draw two cards.' Drawing the cards, she looked somewhat dissatisfied, but stayed positive. 'I'll end my turn with four face-downs.'

(Kieran hand: Sekka's Light)

Kieran: 'I'll activate my Sekka's Light immediately to draw two cards. Then I'll use its effect banishing from my graveyard, shuffling a monster back from my hand into my deck, and drawing another card. Now I'll Special summon Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter (Atk:300), and summon a Blue Brawler to go with it (Def.:2000). And I'll Synchro them both off for Superheavy Samurai Ogre Shutendoji (Def.:2500). And when it's summoned, I can destroy all of your Spells and Traps.'

With their last hope gone, the champions had to face up to losing their titles immediately. 'Ogre Shutendoji, destroy Fortune Lady Earth.' Shutendoji swung at the Lady with its spiked club, destroying it (The Cast LP:8000-7900). 'Then I'll destroy Zealantis with Masurawo.' The mighty Superheavy sword wielder effortlessly cut down the Link 4 monster, slicing its head off in one smooth motion (The Cast LP:7900-5200). 'And now you're open, we'll finish you off.' Ashura King's many handed slaps and thrusts and the Steam Train King's powerful push were enough to defeat the underdog champions, albeit only by the slimmest of margins (The Cast LP:5200-0).

With the conclusion of the duel, the new champions took their titles and scarpered, having narrowly survived the duel that everyone expected them to win. Meanwhile the challengers were clearly full of frustrations, but understanding the wider situation, thanked the fans before quickly returning backstage, to be greeted by Rio. 'Good job both of you, you were super close there.' 'I shouldn't have gone for the One-Turn Kill' Brooke bemoaned, but Rio's opinion was somewhat opposing. 'What better way to win?'

While they were talking though, a camera crew rushed past them, almost bowling Brooke and Rio over in the process. They were rushing to find Bolton lying in his office, glasses smashed and blood on his face, with Maddy knelt over him, growling and howling, while Rhydian was angrily shouting at him. 'What - you think you can just buy her? Not a chance, she's MY GIRL and nobody else's! Our partnership is OVER!'

In the zone

While this was going on, Freja's music started, and she walked out wearing all black, storming straight down with an evil look in her eyes. 'The following duel is under Standard Rules. Introducing first, representing the Dynasty, from St. Helens, England, Ms. Hellfire - Freja McKinna.' "Freja McKinna has become a rising star in recent times, but the apparent sudden break-up of her team with Belle Draper has thrown a wrench into that momentum. The 25 year old from Merseyside is considered even in the Renegades and Dynasty to be a wild card in terms of style, and she's going to need all the unpredictability in the world to pull off one of the greatest upsets of all time."

In the zone, Freja got a microphone for herself. Unfortunately, nobody got to hear much of what she had to say, as her speech was so full of slander and expletives towards Akiza that her microphone was quickly switched off by the company's production team. So instead she threw the object into the crowd, and waited for her opponent. Rather than waiting calmly though, she squatted down and swayed from side to side, while uttering more swear words.

Almost four minutes later, and with the referee starting to count him down, Aster finally walked out, in his usual silver duelling suit. 'Introducing her opponent, from the City of Angels, the Phoenix has landed - Aster Phoenix.' "Aster Phoenix is a duellist with a wealth of experience and an honours board longer than most people's hallways. He's declared it his destiny to get back the WDC Championship and become the first ever seven-time WDC Champion, and the first step to that goal is here against the Dynasty's unpredictable wildcard.'

In the zone, Aster poked fun at his opponent by demeaningly patting her on the head, and then making a crying motion in relation to the situation with Maddy. Freja responded by trying to bite him, an attack that was only prevented by security rushing out to stop her. This calmed her down just enough to activate her duel disk. 'You want some? Then come and GET SOME!' Supremely confident, Aster obliged. 'This shouldn't be too difficult.'

Freja McKinna LP:8000 vs. Aster Phoenix LP:8000

(Freja hand: Cyber Angel Idaten, Cyber Petit Angel, Machine Angel Ritual, Incarnated Machine Angel, Pre-preparation of Rites, Eva)

Freja: 'You're really going to regret just doing that. I'll draw, activate Pre-preparation for Herald of Perfection and Dawn of the Herald. Then I'll activate Dawn, tributing Idaten to summon Herald of Perfection (Def.:2800). Idaten's effect because she was tributed then gives my monster 1000 more Attack and Defence (Def.:2800-3800). I end my turn.'

(Aster hand: Fusion Destiny, D:Force, Destiny Hero - Decider, Destiny Hero - Dogma, Destiny Hero - Drilldark, D Cubed)

Aster: 'I draw and I'll activate Fusion Destiny.' 'I activate the effect of Herald of Perfection, discarding Eva to negate your Spell.' The moment Fusion Destiny tried to work its magic, Freja's Herald shone magnificently, preventing the effect from working. 'Now Eva can banish the two Fairies from my graveyard to draw two cards.' 'Not a problem, I'll summon D Cubed (Atk:0), and use its effect discarding two cards to summon two more D Cubed (Atk:0x2). And I'll tribute all three of them for my Destiny Hero - Dogma (Atk:3400). I end my turn.'

(Freja hand: Cyber Petit Angel, Machine Angel Ritual, Incarnated Machine Angel, Impcantation Thanatosis, Impcantation Talismandra, Soul of Purity and Light)

Freja: 'I'll draw and' 'Hold up there, I've not told you my dogma yet. See, my dogma is this: I don't lose to two brain cell bitches! Dogma, take away half of her Life points!' The winged Destiny Hero unleashed a sinister black wind, which drained away half of his opponent's health, not that she even appeared to notice (Freja LP:8000-4000). 'Do what you like because I'll summon Cyber Petit Angel (Atk:300).'

Still showing nothing but confidence, Aster's response was 'If I knew Angels were that ugly, I'd be a bad boy all the time.' 'Ugly as your attitude' Freja replied, exciting the crowd and annoying Aster. 'There's no need to get so shirty just because your little friend chose her stupid boyfriend over you, it happens.' 'It wasn't exactly a choice though.' 'I agree, I mean I'd choose anyone over you, you're short, annoying, not particularly good looking, a bit like her actually.'

This was the final straw for Freja, who was now committing to destroying him. 'I'll use my Petit Angel to add Cyber Angel Idaten to my hand. Now I'll activate the Field spell card Impcantation Thanatosis.' A dimly lit room materialised, with Freja stood perfectly in between two flaming torches. 'Welcome to my world now. In this world, there's only going to be one sacrifice, and it's YOU. Because they don't call me Ms. Hellfire because I like hot summer holidays. In this realm, I can reveal Impcantation Talismandra in my hand, and exchange it for two more from my deck (Def.:0x2).'

'Talismandra's effect will add Cyber Angel Dakini to my hand. Then I activate Machine Angel Ritual, tributing Idaten and Cyber Petit Angel to summon Cyber Angel Dakini (Atk:2700). Because of Idaten's effect, both my monsters now gain 1000 Attack points, and Dakini will force you to send away your Dogma (Dakini Atk:2700-3700; Herald Def.:3800-4800). 'And now I'll banish Idaten and Petit Angel to summon Soul of Purity and Light (Atk:2200). I'll switch Herald to Attack mode (Atk:3800), and attack you.' The three hefty blows of 3700, 3800 and 2200 were more than enough for Freja to take the great Phoenix out in a single shot (Aster LP:8000-0).

The duel concluding, Freja screamed in anger, and went to attack Aster in pure rage, only for Rio to rush out, and speak to her briefly before steering her away. Meanwhile a stunned Aster looked devastated, as the commentators reacted to the result. "That might just be the biggest shock in WDC history." "Freja, the World Number 76 from St. Helens has just become the first person to ever whitewash Aster Phoenix. Maybe the winds of change are blowing."

Backstage, the divisions were becoming clear in the Regiment, as Kari and Radley were with Hassleberry. 'Look, we just want you to know that we're with you Hass, Claude's being totally gross at the moment.' 'Hopefully they get Maddy back so he gets over himself and we can get on track.' 'Guys, I appreciate y'all, but I don't think our sarge is coming back from this one, I think he's the real deal with these thoughts.' 'We need to consider a change then.'

While this was going on, local popstar Gracie C was performing a mid-show concert for the crowd. Afterwards, she bumped into Rhydian and Maddy, and while the cameras didn't catch what either were saying, they were very clearly on incredibly friendly terms, and after several minutes of chatting away, she left with them, as Belle continued to feed Rhydian information that made him look over his shoulder briefly.

In the duelling zone

Maddy and Shannon walked out first, their walking patterns now mirroring each other almost perfectly. 'The following is a non-title duel. Introducing first, representing Junction 7, they are your WDC Tag-Team Champions, the Wolfblood Witch Maddy Smith, and Shannon Kelly.' Before they could even get halfway down though, Kenzie and Denzil's music interrupted them, and they dropped the beat coming out.

'Yo listen up, Kenzie and Denzil in the house, but what's a house without a heart? Rhydian's so creepy he's manipulation' your heart, but when Phil gets a hold of him he's gonna be runnin' so far!' 'Tonight you're going to be shaken up, because we're in the business of wakin' up!' They then bounded down, as Maddy was consulted by Shannon. 'Destroy them all!' 'Destroy the Renegades' she responded obediently.

Non-title duel: Dynasty (Kenzie Calhoun/Denzil Davis) LP:8000 vs. [c] Junction 7 (Maddy Smith/Shannon Kelly) LP:8000

(Kenzie hand: Magical Musketeer - Starfire, Magical Musket - Cross Domination, Fiend Griefing, Magical Musketeer - Calamity, Magical Musket - Fiendish Deal)

Turn 1: Kenzie: 'I guess it's our turn to deal with Ms. big scary and cold, it's time to warm the human freezer up! I'll summon Magical Musketeer - Starfire (Atk:1300), and end my turn setting one. Don't worry though, it's more of a challenge than it looks.'

(Maddy hand: Clear World, Clear Vice Dragon, Clear Wall, Effect Veiler, Clear Rage Golem, Clear Phantom)

Maddy: 'I draw. Activate Clear World.' The field quickly transformed into an eerily calm landscape, brilliant white with clear crystals floating around all of them. 'Summon Clear Rage Golem (Atk:1600). Activate Clear Wall.' A dazzling wall of light, virtually invisible to the naked eye, surrounded the champions as Maddy continued staring on with no emotion nor life, as if a statue. 'End.' Maddy then took a blast of clear light through her midsection through the maintenance cost of her Field spell (Junction 7 LP:8000-7500).

(Denzil hand: Karakuri Bonze "Kunamzan", Karakuri Merchant "Inashichi", Karakuri Trick House, Runaway Karakuri, Machine Duplication, Runaway Karakuri)

Denzil: 'Yo you're so icy it's gonna cause a blizzard, so I'm gonna heat things up, mechanical style, summoning Karakuri Merchant "Inashichi" (Atk:400). Then I'm switching my monster's mode up (Def.:1500) and summoning Karakuri Bonze "Kunamzan" (Atk:2000). Then Level 5 Kunamzan tunes with Level 2 Inashichi to summon Karakuri Shogun "Burei" (Atk:2700). Burei's effect will summon Shirokunishi from my deck' 'Effect Veiler' Maddy replied coldly, as the sprite gently grasped Denzil's Synchro monster, preventing its effect from working. 'I end my turn setting 3.'

(Shannon hand: Eldlich the Golden Lord, Eldlich the Golden Lord, Seven Cities of the Golden Land, Golden Land Forever, Necroworld Banshee, Eldlixer of White Destiny)

Shannon: 'I draw and I'll send Eldlich the Golden Lord from my hand to the grave alongside Seven Cities of the Golden Land to use Eldlich's effect and send your Burei to the graveyard.' This canny move from Shannon effectively shut down any moves that Denzil had available to him, cutting the field down. 'Then I'll use the Eldlixer of White Destiny, and just like it's Maddy's destiny to be brought back to how she belongs, it's your destiny to fall to my Eldlich the Golden Lord (Def.:3000). I end my turn with a face-down (Junction 7 LP:7500-7000).' 'Not trying to attack?' 'Why should I when Maddy can do all of it?'

She then ran her fingers through Maddy's increasingly blonde hair. 'Just look at her.' 'Yeah, we've been looking at her, except it ain't really her is it?' Kenzie responded. 'You've got a mouth on you' 'I don't care what you think. You're a creep, and Rhydian's an arsehole, I mean your old master James is evil' 'Don't even go there, he abused my trust and got what he deserved.' 'At least he makes no bones about being evil though, he doesn't try and hide it. Rhydian's absolutely delusional.'

That's when Maddy snapped. 'Never insult my master and fiance.' 'Oh yeah, I forgot to tell everyone, Maddy and Rhydian are getting married, the last step in curing her. Not that either of you are ever going to see it. See, Maddy's going to destroy you both so hard that you'll be lucky to walk again.' 'Oh yeah, like she did to Phil and Hannah, oh wait, they're absolutely fine. You've got a high opinion and no clue. The real Maddy is kind, clever, and really funny, not some kind of simmering statue. So the only beating is the beating of our drums when we beat out whatever's beating her when we got you beat, got it?' As she got cheered, Kenzie's turn began.

(Kenzie hand: Magical Musket - Cross Domination, Fiend Griefing, Magical Musketeer Calamity, Magical Musket - Fiendish Deal, Magical Musketeer Kidbrave)

Kenzie: 'I'll draw and summon Magical Musketeer Kidbrave (Atk:1600), and Link it off immediately for Link 1, Magical Musketeer MAX (Atk:1000). Then MAX's effect will summon a Magical Musketeer from my deck for every Spell or Trap on your field.' 'Not if I use my Golden Land Forever, I'll tribute Eldlich to negate and destroy MAX.' 'Fine, I'll just go to my Battle phase then.' 'Good idea, too bad that Clear World has effects.' Kenzie then looked around and saw a dark wall surrounding her and Denzil's fields.

'Because you control a Dark monster and have at least two monsters on your field, you can't attack.' 'Fine, I'll switch my Starfire to Defence mode (Def.:1700), and end my turn.' 'During the End phase, because you control an Earth monster, I can destroy a Defence-position monster on your field.' 'Hang on, does your field not get affected by Clear World?' 'No, because of Maddy's Phantom. Now take your turn.' Maddy quietly nodded as she drew.

(Maddy hand: Clear Vice Dragon, Clear Rage Golem, Trade-In)

Maddy: 'Activate Trade-In, discard Clear Vice Dragon and draw two. Then summon Clear Rage Golem (Atk:1600). Set two and end turn (Junction 7 LP:7000-6500).'

(Denzil hand: Karakuri Trick House, Runaway Karakuri, Machine Duplication, Runaway Karakuri, Machina Armored Unit"

Denzil: 'I'll draw.' Straight away though, Maddy was set to cause more issues. 'Activate face-downs.' As a metal ring surrounded Burei, it clamped shut, and then Burei started glowing all the colours of the rainbow. 'What in the blue hell is this?' 'With Gestalt Trap, your monster loses all of its power, both Attack points and abilities are neutralised. I could explain the concept behind it, but I think you're all too stupid to understand (Burei Atk:2700-0). Oh, and the other Trap, with RGB Rainbowlution, your monster is now every single attribute. Meaning it's vulnerable to every effect of Clear World.' 'I'll end my turn.'

'Good, now I can explain how doomed you are. Firstly, you now control a Fire monster, so say goodbye to 1000 Life points (Dynasty LP:8000-7000). Secondly, because you control a Light monster, your entire hand is now revealed at all times. Because you have a Water monster out, you both have to discard one card at the end of every turn. And because you control a Wind monster, you have to pay 500 Life points every time you want to activate a Spell.'

(Shannon hand: Eldlich the Golden Land, Necroworld Banshee, Royal Decree)

Shannon: 'I'll draw and set one card before passing my turn (Junction 7 LP:6500-6000).' Denzil asked a very poignant question at this point. 'Hey, she's taking all this maintenance cost, are you even bothered how its making her feel?' Shannon just laughed in response. 'She doesn't feel anything. I'll let you into a little secret: inside, there's a little bug that's eating her alive, and is going to transform her into the true version of herself.' 'Yeah, really sounds like it's "transforming" her, nothing else at all.'

(Kenzie hand: Magical Musket - Cross Domination, Fiend Griefing, Magical Musketeer Calamity, Magical Musket - Fiendish Deal, Magical Musket - Steady Hands)

Kenzie: 'I'll draw and activate Magical Musket - Cross Domination.' 'Don't forget, you have to pay 500 Life points to activate that Spell card (Dynasty LP:7000-6500).' 'Yeah, whatever. This reduces the Attack of your Clear Rage Golem to 0 and negates its effects (Atk:1600-0). Then because I activated that in the same column that Starfire's sat in, I can summon Magical Musketeer Caspar from my deck (Def.:2000).'

'Then I'll pay 500 (Dynasty LP:6500-6000) to activate Magical Musket - Steady Hands, and double the Attack points of Starfire (Atk:1300-2600). And due to the effect of Caspar, I can then add Magical Musket - Desperado to my hand. Now Starfire will attack Clear Rage Golem, let this be the awakening!' Starfire unleashed a vicious run-and-gun assault, but it quickly became clear that all of the bullets were being blocked before reaching the monster. 'Because of Clear Wall, monsters with Clear World in their text can't be destroyed in battle, and we take no damage. You're never winning this one.' 'I end my turn (Starfire Atk:2600-1300, Rage Golem Atk:0-1600).' A burning flame from a crystal then fried the underdogs again (Dynasty LP:6000-5000).

(Maddy hand: Clear Vicious Knight)

Maddy: 'Draw, tribute Rage Golem for Clear Vicious Knight (Atk:2300). It gains the highest Attack stat on your field (Atk:2300-3600). Vicious Knight, attack Starfire.' Vicious Knight produced what appeared to be a mirage of a dark bladed knight, which sliced through Starfire and cut Kenzie, which seemed to cause Shannon some slight concern, as she muttered 'That's not supposed to happen… (Dynasty LP:5000-2700, Vicious Knight Atk:3600-2300). 'I end my turn (Junction 7 LP:6000-5000).' Denzil briefly glanced round to check on Kenzie, whose arm was dripping blood onto the ground as the next turn began.

(Denzil hand: Karakuri Trick House, Runaway Karakuri, Machine Duplication, Runaway Karakuri, Machina Armored Unit, Megamorph)

Denzil: 'I'm gonna draw and activate two copies of Runaway Karakuri.' 'Not before you pay a total of 1000 damage from Clear World (Dynasty LP:2700-1700). 'That boosts my monster up to 2000 Attack (Atk:2000).' 'And I'll activate Desperado, to destroy your Vicious Knight.' Shannon had the answer though. 'You're wasting your time, I just activate Royal Decree which shuts down your Trap cards.' 'I'll activate Megamorph then (Atk:2000-4000).' 'Foolish kid, don't you know that Clear Vicious Knight's Attack is constantly recalculating? (Atk:2300-6300).

'Erm… I never got taught that one.' 'Seems like your little teacher is a bit useless doesn't it? And since her partner was too weak, you're probably never going to see her again, that's how it goes after all. Stupid girl should have stayed away when Claude gave her the chance.' This was enough for Denzil, who went to give Shannon a deserved slap, only for Maddy to turn him over 180 in mid air with a tackle. She then did the same to Kenzie, and started strangling them both.

Suddenly Astrid, cloaked in a long white cape and hood to avoid detection, dashed in, quickly pulling the junior Dynasty members to safety. As they were told to leave, she turned and spun on the spot, swinging a kick into Shannon's head. As Akiza rushed out, Astrid stared at Maddy from under her hood, and then backed off, knowing that the timing wasn't right to try and mount a rescue.

Returning backstage, Astrid checked on Kenzie. 'How's the arm?' 'Just a scratch. Look, thanks for what you did out there.' 'You really don't need to thank me, we've all got to stick together. I was itching for a way to get into the action anyway.' 'Look, this might be a little bit… I dunno, inappropriate right now, but I'm kind of a huge fan of yours. Would it be ok if I… kind of hung around with you?' 'Yeah, I mean I'm not nearly as interesting as you think, but I'm not going to stop you.' They then stayed together to watch Rhydian be interviewed before the main event.

'Rhydian Morris, you're defending your title in a huge duel in this main event, WDC Championship vs. Career against Phil Robinson. What do you make of the controversy regarding your relationship with Maddy?' 'I don't get it, I can only put it down to jealousy that I have what I always wanted… no, what I needed, and nobody, no matter how hard I try, can take that off me now.'

'Have you ever been so hungry for something that it not only keeps you awake, but it dominates all of your thoughts? Yeah, well I have. Getting Maddy back, and not only that but undoing all the damage done to her by that lot has been my obsession for so long. I'm not the bad guy here, I'm just doing what any reasonable person would do, fighting for who they love. As for tonight, I'm going to put Phil down once and for all. I thought his career was the last thing he could lose, but tonight, we're testing the theory, because he's going to lose much more than that.'

Elsewhere

As Phil calmly made preparations to his deck for the main event, Rio, Blair and Hannah were watching on. 'I don't get how he's so calm' Rio muttered, concerned, so Hannah made a revelation. 'There's something he didn't want anyone telling.' 'Go on.' 'Before we left the UK the other day, we did some hypnotherapy, me and him. I basically put a trance on that allows him to stay calm and objective.' 'That's… genius' Blair responded. 'I take it was your idea then?'

Hannah laughed at the suggestion, and informed them 'Actually he approached the subject with me. I wasn't going to at first, but he really needed it, you don't see what goes on behind closed doors, and what's been going on is that he's really been struggling. So I agreed to do this for him. It turns out that this power we have can be used for good as well as for wicked.' 'Maybe that's the approach we need to take' Rio wondered, as he walked into the entrance gate.

In the zone

Phil was out first, wearing all black gear and being cheered as he walked out. "Phil Robinson is one of our most experienced and established names, but is the curtain drawing on his career tonight? He'll be hoping that the trusty technology of his Cybernetic Evolution deck will see him home, this week marks nine years since he first used a variation of this deck, and it's seen him through many wars, but with his career on the line, can he survive once more?" In the zone, he raised the Symbol of Excellence in front of the crowd, looking ice cool.

Rhydian's music then started and he appeared alongside Maddy, looking supremely confident as he held Maddy's hand in one hand, and his title in the other. "Rhydian Morris in his second reign with the title that in his eyes, he never truly lost, and has an opportunity like no other tonight, getting to say that he retired one of the greatest duellists of all time. He's a downright vicious competitor, and his Empire of Snakes deck aims to leave the opponent snakebitten with fierce swarming play and downright disgusting damage and devastation." "He's been questioned for his approach, but he asks a fair question: how is what he's doing different to the Renegades themselves?"

In the zone, the two opponents were separated by security before they could get close to each other, and the intros were made by a Kiwi in a sharp suit. 'The following duel is for the WDC Championship, and is Title vs. Career. As per a request from the Board of Directors, if Rhydian Morris is counted out or disqualified, he loses his title.' This revelation brought virtually no response from the champion, who was incredibly confident.

'Now to introduce the combatants. First, the challenger, representing the Dynasty, from Taylor Park, Manchester, England, putting his career on the line, the Northern Nightmare - Phil Robinson.' Ever the tactician, Phil shoved security to one side, and then raised his arm in Rhydian's face, while shouting 'This is my world, and she is my daughter, and you are fucked!', as the crowd encouraged him on.

'And introducing his opponent, who wishes to point out he is accompanied by "his loving girlfriend" Maddy Smith, from Llanfair PG, Wales, but duelling out of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, he is your reigning and defending WDC Champion, The Cobra - Rhydian Morris.' Rhydian raised his arm, and then kissed Maddy right in front of Phil, who faked him out with a punch mid-kiss, only to then stand back when it stopped, and activate his duel disk. 'You really are a chicken.' Rhydian didn't rise to the bait, but soon enough, the all important main event was underway as the lights dimmed.

WDC Championship: Phil Robinson LP:8000 vs. [c] Rhydian Morris LP:8000

(Phil hand: Silent Graveyard, Cyber Dragon, Cyber Phoenix, Cyber Dragon Drei, Cybernetic Revolution)

Turn 1: Phil: 'Let's dance bitch. I'll start with a set monster, and end my turn with two in the backrow.'

(Rhydian hand: Snake Rain, Magical Stone Excavation, Ogdoabyss the Ogdoadic Overlord, Flogos the Ogdoadic Boundless, D.D.R - Different Dimension Reincarnation, Imperial Iron Wall)

Rhydian: 'I'll draw and activate Snake Rain, to discard Ogdoabyss and send four Reptiles to my graveyard. I'll send Aron, Aleirtt, Keruse and Nephillabyss. Then I'll activate Magical Stone Excavation, sending two cards from my hand to the grave and recycling Snake Rain. Because one of them was an Ogdoadic, I can now summon Nephillabyss from my graveyard' 'Not when I activate my face-down Silent Graveyard. I'll give up the Cyber Dragon in my hand, and now you can't activate effects in the grave this turn.' As a spectral shade overcame his graveyard, Rhydian seemed to be impressed. 'This is the you I expected. I'll end my turn with a face-down.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Drei, Call of the Haunted)

Phil: 'I'll draw and flip up Cyber Phoenix (Atk:1200), before attacking with it.' As he launched his attack, Maddy stood directly in the path to protect Rhydian, much to his surprise. 'I'll cancel my attack and set a monster before I end my turn.' Phil was then shocked when he saw Rhydian push Maddy to one side. 'Never do that again, not a scratch is going to get on you here, understand?' She nodded, as Phil watched him.

(Rhydian hand: Snake Rain, Ogdoadic Water Lily)

Rhydian: 'I don't need her help to beat you. Besides, the last thing I want is her getting hurt.' 'You were just ok with her parents potentially being killed by her though. Or was that part of your plan, leave her with all the guilt when we get her back?' 'They got in the way, if they'd have just kept out when they had the chance that would never have happened. But no, they had to go and interfere, and take your side in all of this at that? They knew they were playing with fire, yet they still complain after getting burned.'

'Tell me one thing Rhydian.' 'Depends what it is.' 'Does it make you feel big? Knowing you've got the power over life and death, knowing that you can just throw away a life when it's inconvenient to you?' Rhydian's reply was compelling though. 'You know, I could ask you the same thing. Because let's not pretend that you're only really angry that I'm doing the same thing you do, except I'm doing it better than you ever did. Because I did the one thing that you declared impossible so many times. You just can't handle the fact that you've been replaced. Not just in Maddy's life, but in this entire world.' Rhydian then waited for the comeback, but this time, there wasn't one, as Phil chewed over his words, and Rhydian took his turn.

'I'll draw and activate Ogdoadic Water Lily, sending Nunu the Ogdoadic Remnant to my graveyard from my deck, and then because I have at least five Reptiles in my graveyard, I'll summon Ogdoabyss (Atk:3100). Then because a monster was sent from the hand or deck to the grave, I can also bring out Nephilabyss (Atk:2200). And she's going to summon Aron from the graveyard (Atk:2500). Now I can use Nunu's effect to summon itself from the grave because I only control Reptiles (Def.:2000), before tributing it for Aleirtt (Atk:2000).'

'Now Ogdoabyss can send every monster not summoned from the graveyard to there. And with that done, I'll attack!' 'I'll activate my Call of the Haunted, to revive Cyber Dragon (Atk:2100).' 'You know, I really don't care. Attack!' 'You don't care, but you will, when I activate Cybernetic Revolution! This replaces the Cyber Dragon on my field with something a bit more… beefy. Burn the skies, Cyber End Dragon (Atk:4000).' This proved a barrier too far for Rhydian that turn. 'I'll pass.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Drei, Cyber Revsystem)

Phil: 'I'll draw and activate Cyber Revsystem, which will revive Cyber Dragon (Atk:2100). Then I'll summon Cyber Dragon Drei (Atk:1800), using its effect to make itself a Level 5 monster (Level:4-5; Cyber End Level:10-5). Now I'll overlay Level 5 Cyber Dragon and Cyber Dragon Drei to build the overlay network. Evolve, Cyber Dragon Nova (Atk:2100). Now I'll use the effect of Nova to detach a material and revive Cyber Dragon (Atk:2100), then banish it immediately (Atk:2100-4200).'

'Now let's battle! Cyber Dragon Nova, attack Aleirtt with New Evolution Burst.' Nova charged up a beam of fire, which it then used to fry the face off Aleirtt (Rhydian LP:8000-5800). 'Cyber End, destroy Aron with Super Strident Blaze.' A further fiery finale saw Rhydian's points slip to just above half in a single turn, the deposed champion showing his skill (Rhydian LP:5800-4200). 'Now I'll overlay my Nova into Cyber Dragon Infinity (Atk:2100-2500). And it's going to absorb your Ogdoabyss.'

Phil's clever strategy involved snatching away Rhydian's key monster so he couldn't use its powerful effect, and as it was sucked into Infinity (Atk:2500-2700), Rhydian was bang under pressure. 'I end my turn. I hope that you see now that you're not just up against anybody. You might have concussed me into a fluke victory last time, but flukes are just that, lightning doesn't strike twice.' While he was saying this, Cyber End was destroyed by the effect of Cybernetic Revolution.

(Rhydian hand: Snake Rain, Nunu, the Ogdoadic Remnant)

Rhydian: 'I'll draw and activate Snake Rain, discarding Nunu.' 'You'll be shocked to learn I'm negating that (CDI Atk:2700-2500).' 'Well I've forced you to use that now, which means nothing is stopping me summoning Nephilabyss because a Reptile was sent from my hand or field to the graveyard (Def.:3100). Remind me, your Infinity can't do anything about monsters in Defence, can it?' Phil's silence was deafening as Rhydian smiled. 'I end my turn. Come and get me.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Vier)

Phil: 'I draw. I'll end my turn.' 'Well it looks like you're stumped all of a sudden. It's a shame, I thought you were bringing all the fire.'

(Rhydian hand: 5 Card Salute)

Rhydian: 'I'll draw, and I don't need to do anything right now, I'll end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Vier, Cyberload Fusion)

Phil: 'I'll draw and pass again, I can just wait.'

(Rhydian hand: 5 Card Salute, Dark Hole)

Rhydian: 'I'll draw and activate Dark Hole, to suck up all your monsters.' 'Well I'm obviously negating that (CDI Atk:2500-2300).' While disappointed that Phil hadn't given his monster back yet, he had still provided an opportunity. 'Now you're going to see that Maddy has perks other than love. I activate a card you'll recognise, called 5 Card Salute! Do you want me to explain it?' Infuriated, Phil spat venom in response.

'You hate us so much yet you're willing to use our tools.' 'I don't know if you've heard, but Donna's with us, which means they're now our tools. Besides, possession is nine tenths of the law, and as far as I'm concerned, the law is that what's source for the goose is source for Junction 7. So I'll take my five cards, thanks for using up your negate. Then I'll activate Snake Rain, discarding Vennominon to send four Reptiles to my graveyard. Now I'll set three cards and end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Vier, Cyberload Fusion, Cyberdark Claw)

Phil: 'You want to play it that way? Then let's dance! I'll discard Cyberdark Claw to use its effect to add Cybernetic Horizon to my hand. Then I can use Horizon, sending Cyber Dragon Vier from my hand and Cyberdark Chimera from my deck to the graveyard, then add Cyber Dragon Core to my hand, and send Cyber Eternity Dragon from my Extra Deck to the graveyard. Now I'll summon Core (Atk:400), and use it to add Cyberdark Realm. Realm will then add Cyberdark Cannon to my hand.'

'Cannon's effect discards itself to add Cyberdark Chimera to my hand. Then Realm's other effect allows me an extra Normal summon, so Chimera's coming out to play (Atk:800). Chimera then discards Cyberload Fusion to add Power Bond to my hand.' Rhydian was watching the entire time, merely a spectator but still intently watching every moment of the combo. 'I'll then Link off Core and Chimera.' As he set the Link arrows, the battlefield started sparking, as his monster appeared.

'Blast me into tomorrow, Cyber Dragon Sieger (Atk:2100).' 'So all that was for one little monster.' 'No, it was for this - Power Bond. And this is all possible thanks to Cyberdark Chimera. Because I searched Power Bond with it, now I can use monsters in my graveyard for the Fusion summon. So I'll banish all five Cyberdarks from my graveyard, and summon Cyberdarkness Dragon (Atk:2000-4000). And here's the real kicker, Cyberdarkness can equip Cyber End Dragon to itself, before I tribute Cyberdarkness Dragon to summon the final boss - Cyberdark End Dragon (Atk:5000).'

'Cyberdark End Dragon, how about we turn Nephilabyss into the Berlin Wall?' 'Be careful, the sun's shining, I activate Ogdoadic Daybreak!' A harsh light then permeated through the walls, and burst through Nephilabyss. 'This tributes my monster, but it goes to good use, because I get to replace it with a Token for every two Levels it had. Nephilabyss is Level 10 by the way (Ogdoadic Token Def.:0x5).' 'That's fine, I'll take out three Tokens then.' Sieger, Cyberdark End and Infinity each took a Token out, reducing Rhydian to just two. 'I end my turn.'

(Rhydian hand: Ogdoadic Water Lily)

Rhydian: 'I'll draw and I'll activate my face-down Offerings to the Snake Deity. This destroys one Token, and two monsters on your field. Since your Dark End's immune, I'll just get rid of the other two.' 'I'll use Infinity's last negate (Atk:2300-2100).' This was where Rhydian proved that he was always a step ahead. 'That's the thing, you always think you're playing 4D chess with your opponent. But what happens when someone's playing 5D? I activate Witch's Strike! This destroys every card on your field and in your hand.'

Phil was caught out and amazed as he saw everything on his field bite the dust with the exception of his Dark End. And Rhydian had the perfect answer to that as well. 'Now I'll activate Water Lily. It sends a Reptile from my deck to the grave and then revives Vennominon the King of Poisonous Snakes. I have 11 Reptiles in my graveyard, which is enough for me (Atk:5500). Vennominon, attack.' Rhydian's superpowered King bit Phil's Dragon, and made it malfunction and collapse (Phil LP:8000-7500). 'I end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Eternal)

Phil: 'I'll draw and activate my face-down Cyber Eternal. This will revive my Cyberdarkness Dragon (Atk:2000). And when I do, it will equip Cyber End Dragon from my graveyard, taking its Attack stat (Atk:2000-6000). Now I'll attack your King.' Cyberdarkness shot its molten hot spring-loaded tail into Vennominon, destroying it (Rhydian LP:4200-3700). 'And I'll activate Rise of the Snake Deity. This allows me to sacrifice the fallen Vennominon at my cross and summon Vennominaga, the Deity of Poisonous Snakes (Atk:6000).' 'This is your last warning, if you just give Maddy back to us, it doesn't have to get worse for you.'

(Rhydian hand: Ogdoadic Water Lily)

Rhydian: 'I'm NOT giving her back! She's my girlfriend and I'll do with her what I please! I draw and I'll activate another Water Lily. See, while I was locked up, this was all I thought about, getting my girl back and getting back at you. And with this I can do both for good, by sending another Reptile to my graveyard, like Zohah the Ogdoadic Boundless (Vennominaga Atk:6000-6500). Now I can destroy your Dragon.' Vennominaga's snakes shot out from her body, and bit through Cyberdarkness, destroying it (Phil LP:7500-7000). 'When I deal damage, Vennominaga gains a Hyper-Venom Counter (HVC:0-1). I end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Cyber Dragon Vier)

Phil: 'I'll draw and activate the effect of Cyber Dragon Core in my graveyard to banish it and summon Cyber Dragon (Def.:1600). Then I'll set a monster and pass.'

(Rhydian hand: Magical Merchant)

Rhydian: 'I'll draw, set a monster and then Vennominon will shoot through your Cyber Dragon.' Another monster fell by the wayside of the vicious snakes, as Maddy continued to look on catatonically in the champion's corner. 'I end my turn.'

(Phil hand: Cybernetic Overflow)

Phil: 'I'll draw and pass.' Seeing the writing on the wall, he made another plea. 'Maddy, I know you're in there, come on out.' She just stared at him though, as Rhydian continued with the revelations. 'I'll let you into a hint, she doesn't remember you anymore. All her memories are gone forever.'

(Rhydian hand: Curse of Fiend)

Rhydian: 'I'll draw and activate Curse of Fiend, changing the battle positions of every monster on the field apart from the unaffected Vennominaga (Magical Merchant Atk:200, Cyber Dragon Vier Atk:1100-1600). 'Now Magical Merchant's effect activates, sending cards from my deck to the grave until I hit a Spell/Trap.' He started sending cards, and hit a total of eleven monsters before finding Ogdoadic Daybreak. 'Fitting really, my beautiful Maddy will have her daybreak soon, and the sun will shine on her new life. All her memories are gone, she doesn't remember you, the Renegades, or even her stupid "little brother". Say goodbye to your career (Vennominaga Atk:6500-12,000).' Vennominaga shot through Cyber Dragon Vier, and with that, Phil's career was depleted (Phil LP:7000-0).

As the duel concluded, Rhydian held his title over his opponent, and before long, the entirety of Junction 7 was surrounding him, ready to send him off in a body bag, with Rhydian even taunting 'Get ready to meet your Mother-in-Law', before turning to Belle, and passing her a cricket bat. 'If you want to prove yourself, finish him off!' Without hesitating, she stared at him, and then raised the bat.

Before she could bring it down though, the Renegades' new music hit, and Rio walked out, distracting everyone. 'What do you want runt?' Kieran asked, before she responded. 'It's funny, I'd expected more respect, let's face it you're looking at the Interim President of the Renegades.' 'Cute title.' 'It's interim until Maddy's back home. Because the way Rhydian and Phil were just talking about her being some kind of item to own is fucking disgusting. She isn't an object, she's a real human being, and it's about time someone treated her with some humanity!'

As she declared this, the crowd erupted in chants of "Rio", and she pointed the microphone in the direction of them. 'Hear that? That's legions of people telling you that I'm right and you're wrong, you might want to listen to people occasionally.' She then looked at Maddy directly, and declared 'Don't worry meatball, we never forgot about you. And trust me when I say this - when we take our shot, we're gonna bat 1000. By the way, you might want to look behind you.' Rhydian laughed at the suggestion, right until he was decked from behind by Blair, swinging her cast.

She then removed the cast to a great reaction, and started swinging it around, as Donny and Freja also ran out, and an almighty brawl ensued. Notably Freja refused to even go near Belle, who was caught in the middle of the brawl without taking part in it apart from a handful of half-hearted missed punches to Donny. Soon Claude rushed out to back up Rhydian, and this was when a cloaked Astrid appeared, swooping in from the bottom row.

The two teams continued fighting, while the Norwegian swept under all the fighting, her black cape swishing from side to side as she did. Eventually she got into a situation where she was in the clear, and got a sight of Maddy, who had both Rhydian and Claude in front of her, and Tee, who was on her own losing to Freja. In a momentary decision, she nudged Freja in the shoulder, prompting her to turn away and block the view of Astrid grabbing Tee, knocking her out with a point-blank headbutt, and vanishing into the night.

Freja then spread the word to Rio, who declared 'Renegades retreat, job done.' As they heard this, Freja and Donny both retreated, although not before they got one more joint shot in on Claude, injuring his upper leg with a double blow. After they'd left, Akiza looked around, and realised that something wasn't right. 'Tee's missing' she reported to Rhydian, who looked on angrily as Rio taunted him. 'We shoot our shot when WE say!' She too then left, with Junction 7 having been thoroughly outsmarted.

Next time: Freed from her thrall, will Tee be able to provide the breakthrough the Renegades desperately need? Meanwhile Rhydian plots, but behind his back, not everyone is supportive. R: Ultra Evolution Book 8: Shedding of Self