R: Ultra Evolution

Book 9: Phenotype: Varsity

WDC World Tour: Naples card:

Freja McKinna vs. Nash

WDC Tag-Team Championships: Marko Anders and Zak Zapata vs. [c] Junction 7 (Maddy Smith and Shannon Kelly)

Lukas Chipperfield vs. Sara Sawyer

Akiza Izinski vs. Blair Flannigan

The club were arriving in Naples for another stop on the tour, and on their quest to save their Alpha. But this stop was different, as they had a guest with them, who was incredibly eager to assist. 'If there's anything I can do to help, please just say.' 'Look Tee, you really don't have to help us like this' 'I don't care what anyone says, I do. I owe my entire freedom to you, there's no reason why you needed to help me, so I have to do something in return. Besides, I don't want anybody being stuck there.'

'Well we are appreciative' Rio responded, warming Tee's heart. 'Honestly, the inside information you've provided us is as valuable as anything. Because now, we know what we're facing down.' 'I just wish I could have provided something on that serum.' 'Well if you can remember the address for this makeshift place they have in Toronto, then we can do something.' 'I'll try for you.'

Meanwhile, Blair and Astrid were discussing tactics. 'Look, I know you want to be out there for my duel later, but I think it's best if you stay hidden for the time being, I just don't want us to reveal our pact before it's time.' Surprisingly for Blair, she was totally on board with this. 'I was kind of thinking something similar, I'll stay hidden nearby just in case you need me. But you don't need my help to beat Akiza, all you need is yourself. We all believe in you, more than you do.'

Meanwhile, in Naples airport

Junction 7 had landed, and Rhydian was in the middle of an intense phone call to Kincade. 'Look if you've got something that speeds this baby up, I want it, the screaming is getting worse and I don't know how much longer I can deal with it. Yes I'm giving her the numbing potion, but it's losing its effectiveness, and I'm running out of it. Yeah, I can meet up Thursday, but I'm telling you, if you've not got what I want, we're going to have trouble.'

While he was on the phone, Akiza was busy talking to Belle, grooming her. 'Our time is near, and you need to be on the right side of this history. Coming with us, you can truly be with Maddy, help her like you wanted.' While she was saying this though, Belle noticed a series of suspicious text messages between she and Claude, and, being at the back of the group, managed to take quick photos of some of them, before hiding her phone again.'

Outside the Royal Castle

Astrid was doing some sightseeing, but she knew something was missing. As Freja caught up with her, she started talking through her thoughts. 'Maddy would love being here, imagine some of the photos she could take of this.' 'You saw the pictures she took in Paris, didn't you? She made the Eiffel Tower look huge, and she caught the Arc at night.' 'She never showed me them, I probably should have asked.' As she saw Astrid sigh, Freja tried to keep her spirits up.

'But we're gonna get her back, and then you can come here with her.' Astrid responded by holding the elder twin close, and stating 'No, we can come here with her. I'm promising you now, when we get her back, I'm going to pay for Maddy to go on holiday wherever she wants. It doesn't matter where or how expensive, if it's somewhere she wants to go, I'm going to make it happen.' 'As long as we can tag along' Freja joked. 'Well obviously.' Astrid replied, as they both lived in hope.

Meanwhile, after half an hour of looking, Hannah had finally found a cafe with a stable enough internet connection to video call Phil, who was at home with Skylar. 'How's the little king then?' 'Oh you know, hungry, noisy' 'Just like his Dad then.' 'I don't know, you could put the food away a few months back.' 'Yeah, I was eating for two, that's why! But he's being good for you?' 'I can look after him.' 'I know, it's just… this is the first time I've properly left him, and the first time it's just been you, and I was just hoping you were ok with him.'

'Oh we're ok, aren't we mister?' he glowed while tickling his baby son, as Hannah grinned. 'Well it seems like you're alright. I know it must be difficult for you not being out here.' 'Look, I wanted to help, but clearly I just wasn't able to. But I'm not exactly going to miss duelling.' Dubious of his relaxed attitude, she politely nodded at him. 'Ok, well enjoy being there, I'll see you tomorrow anyway. Oh, don't forget' 'Nappies? His food? Washing his blankets?'

She laughed in response. 'No you sausage, I was going to say don't forget to look after yourself as well. There's pies in the fridge if you don't get chance for anything else, and you've got an entire fruit bowl if you need a bit of energy.' 'Thank you, you're better at looking after me than I am.' 'I know, that's why I made sure to leave everything easy to find, because knowing you you'll forget to eat. Anyway, the event's going to be getting started soon, so I should go.' 'Ok, love you.' 'And you sweetie, call me if you need anything.' 'I'll be fine, stop fretting.'

As she left the cafe, she immediately bumped into Rio and Donny, who were deep in conversation as they walked down the sunny street in matching sunglasses. 'You two look like quite the pair' she remarked as they finished talking, earning her a telling off from Rio. 'Funny, we were actually talking about the situation, and how Tee wants to confront Akiza and Lukas directly.' 'Well you know you've got me if you need more backup.' 'Hannah, I know you think you're invincible, but I'm not putting you at risk, you're only a couple of months past giving birth, and you're nowhere near full strength.'

'I'm good enough, Italian air's always agreed with me anyway.' 'The two times you've been you mean?' 'Yeah, as I say, always agreed with me. Seriously though, I'm not suggesting I solo them, I'm suggesting I'm backup, because if they've got Claude in their arsenal as well, who knows who else is working with them. You need as many bodies as you can get a hold of, and I'm just saying that I'm here. After all, it's not just my husband who's got in the odd punch-up in the past.'

As she was saying this, Blair passed by. 'Don't worry, we all know about your reputation, what is it Phil called you… Hannah the Jawbreaker?' This seemed to irk her. 'I told him, that was an accident, I was aiming for their nose but I'd had a couple too many martinis.' 'Yeah, we know about your drinking ability as well.' 'I wasn't that good at it as a teenager, I mean I was great at drinking, but I couldn't handle it like I could as an adult.' As they continued laughing about it, Rio hollered Blair over for a quick chat.

'Hey, how can I help?' 'Me and Donny just came out of a meeting' 'Hey, I remember you mentioning that now, how did it go?' 'Yeah, really well, Donny charmed the pants off them and I made a really solid case, so I think we're golden in that. Look, I wanted to talk to you about something that Rhydian said against Phil' 'Don't worry about it, Phil understood what you meant about not speaking about people like they're objects, he was telling me the other day that he's glad someone mentioned it.'

'It's not that, it's… when he said about only doing what the Renegades would do, it… sort of brought things home for me.' 'What - you're not sympathising with him are you?' 'No no, not at all, it's more… I think we can do better.' This got Blair thinking. 'I know what you mean, but this is something we should really be talking about as a club if you ask me, because we need everyone's input on it. We're nothing without everyone else.' 'You're right, I'll call a meeting next week and talk to people about it.'

In the arena

As the show's coverage was about to begin, a strange video set to a worship ballad played, highlighting all the advancements from Junction 7 in recent times, and specifically how both Maddy and Belle had defected from the Renegades, all painted in a golden hue and hushed tones. The hype video ended with Rhydian ceremonially ripping up a contract with Phil's name on it, while declaring 'I'm not a god. I'm BETTER than a god - I'm a Messiah!'

In the zone, Junction 7 walked out to open the show, a mixed reception greeting them, with some people seemingly in their corner, and Rhydian now sporting a Naga face mask and crown. But Akiza wasn't waiting around, as she angrily demanded. 'I want my property back, and I want it now!' She was expecting Tee, but instead, Donny walked out to his own music, being greeted by an absolutely rapturous reception from the Italian crowd. As he stood, sporting a Frozen Diamonds shirt and sunglasses, Akiza got very cross.

'Who the hell are you and why are you here? You're not who I want.' 'Who am I? My name's Donny, Donny Anderson, and I'm the personal assistant for the Interim President of the Renegades, and she did tell me to stress "Interim", Rio Kastle.' 'That's fantastic, I'm sure your mom's very proud of you. But I still don't know why you're here.' 'Oh, she wanted me to give you a message.' He then looked on the piece of paper, and read from it. 'Akiza, you dumb bitch, if you want to start ranting about people being property, then at least have the decency to call me out first so I can tell you to your face that you suck.'

'Well excuse me, but I don't exactly acknowledge that little blue-haired pipsqueak as a leader. Cheerleader maybe, but not an actual leader. But if she wants to come out, she's more than welcome to polish my shoes.' This prompted Rio's music to hit, and she walked out alongside Tee and Caprice. But she had some other business to attend to. 'Donny, would you mind actually reading out what I write next time?' 'Sorry, I didn't think what you said about her at the end could be repeated on television. They censored Freja for less.'

Tee then took the microphone off of them. 'Look, I don't know who you think you are, but I am nobody's property. I don't care if you think I'm some object, because what matters to me is that I'm away from you, and now I want to help Maddy do the same, because I know the torture you're putting her through. And I've especially got a bone to pick with you Lukas, so how about we throw down later?' Before Akiza could say anything, he barged past her, and shouted 'See you later!'

Rio then took the microphone herself, and was clearly in a bullish mood. 'I know that you all think that you're untouchable, and Rhydian clearly thinks he's greater than god, but just know that we're always going to be chasing after you, and just when you feel comfortable, that's when you're going to find us right behind you, ready to strike.' Rhydian just laughed this off though. 'Nobody believes you're a threat' 'Do I look like I care what you believe? I only care about Maddy, that's the whole story. Because the Renegades will never die, and as long as there is breath in my body, we're going to keep coming after you every time. But keeping Maddy? Over my dead body.'

With the support of the crowd ringing in her ears,Rio returned backstage, where she quickly bumped into Radley. 'Hey kiddo, just wanted to tell you that you've got my support with this whole getting Maddy back stuff, like I get Rhydian doesn't want to hurt her, but he knows what he's doing, and he knows how awful it is.' 'Thanks Radley, it's always appreciated, we're strong but the help never harms.' 'I've talked to Kari about it, but she's still got these issues with Blair'

'What's all that about anyway? I know there was something with her brother, but Blair's swearing she's never met him.' Radley just puffed his cheeks out, and responded 'I don't know either. She's really insistent though, I don't think I've ever seen her firmer on anything.' Trying to build alliances, Rio quickly wrote down a phone number. 'Look, I know it's a lot to ask, but could you talk to Kari, just see if she'll meet with Blair at some point, I think we can sort the issue out.'

Impressed at her craft, he signalled for the pen, and wrote down his email address. 'I'll contact you if she wants to sort things out, in the meantime if there's any update, you can email me and I'll get back as soon as possible. Look, I have to go, but I really hope this all works out for you, not to talk down but I've been impressed by you.' Rio almost blushed, but then took a breath, and gave a very professional 'Thank you', before leaving.

In the zone

Freja's music hit first, and as the fans cheered her on, she appeared, dressed in all leather, carrying a dominatrix whip. 'The following duel is under Standard Rules. Introducing first, representing the Renegades, from St. Helens, England, Ms. Hellfire - Freja McKinna.' As she walked down, she cracked the whip on the floor repeatedly, making a sickening noise on the concrete. In the zone, she got handed a microphone, and again, her words were so rude that it was quickly cut off.

Nash then started entering, with several security guards escorting him down. 'Introducing her opponent, from Twin Falls, Idaho, Nash Kastle.' As he slowly walked towards the zone, Freja started cracking the whip on the field. 'Come and face me, or are you too chicken?' After much stalling and trying to get around the whip, Nash took his life in his hands, only to be narrowly missed by the vicious weapon. After this, she put her whip back on the holster on her side, allowing the duel to finally begin.

Nash Kastle LP:8000 vs. Freja McKinna LP:8000

(Nash hand: Lantern Shark, Buzzsaw Shark, Water Hazard, Xyz Force, Stoic Challenge)

Turn 1: Nash: 'I'll start by summoning Buzzsaw Shark (Atk:1600), and use its effect to target itself and summon a Water monster of the same Level from my deck, but it can't activate its effects this turn. I summon Lantern Shark (Atk:1500). Now both of my Sharks might be Level 4s, but when Xyz summoning, I can treat them as Level 3s. So I'll overlay them and Xyz summon Xyz Armor Torpedo (Atk:2500). Then by detaching both its materials, I draw a card.'

As Freja continued watching on, all muscles tensed up, Nash seemed surprised at the lack of a witty response. 'Well you're chatty aren't you? I'll now overlay my Torpedo because it doesn't have any materials, to Xyz summon Rank 4, Full Armored Black Ray Lancer (Atk:2100). And before you know it, I'm going to overlay it to summon Rank 5, Xyz Armor Fortress (Atk:2500). And by detaching its materials, I can add an Armored Xyz card from my deck to my hand for each material. I'll add Armored Xyz and Full Armored Xyz. Then I'm going to go up further! By overlaying Fortress, I can summon Full Armored Crystalzero Lancer (Atk:2200).'

'But you know what's better than a Rank 6? A Rank 7! I'll overlay one more time, turning my Crystalzero Lancer into Rank 7, Full Armored Dark Knight Lancer (Atk:2800). And for each material and Equip card it has, it gains 300 Attack (Atk:2800-3400). I end my turn with two face-downs.'

(Freja hand: Xyz Avenger, Damage Diet, Herald of Ultimateness, Pre-preparation of Rites, Battle Royal Mode - Joining, Archlord Kristya)

Freja: 'I'll draw and I'm starting with Pre-preparation of Rites, to add Meteonis Drytron and Drytron Meteonis Quadrantids to my hand. Then I'll activate Meteonis, tributing Drytron Quadrantids to summon Herald of Ultimateness (Atk.:2000).' 'So far so predictable.' 'Well how about something you don't expect? I summon Xyz Avenger (Atk:1800).' This caught Nash totally by surprise, and instantly, he felt the need to respond.

'I'll activate Ring of Destruction, targeting your Avenger.' 'I'll negate that, sending Kristya with Herald of Ultimateness. Now that's sorted, I'll activate Battle Royal Mode: Joining, targeting my Herald of Ultimateness, meaning it can't be destroyed by battle twice per turn. Now I'll attack Dark Knight Lancer with Avenger.' Despite his opponent suiciding a monster to noticeable damage (Freja LP:8000-6400), Nash was clearly the furthest thing from happy, as he knew Avenger's dangerous effect.

'Now Avenger activates its effect. Because it was destroyed in battle by a monster that is Rank 5 or higher, you have to send cards from your Extra Deck to the graveyard, equal to the Rank of your monster.' This devastating move saw the number of cards in Nash's Extra deck be reduced to a mere three, as seven more hit the graveyard. He still seemed calm though, especially when Freja set the last card in her hand. 'I'll end my turn.'

(Nash hand: Lantern Shark, Armored Xyz, Xyz Force, Overlay Buster)

Nash: 'I'll draw and activate Armored Xyz, to equip the Superdimensional Robot Galaxy Destroyer in my graveyard to Dark Knight Lancer, which sets its Attack points to that amount (Atk:5000). Then I'll activate Xyz Force, which will add Xyz Unit to my hand. By activating Unit, my monster gains 200 Attack for each Rank it has (Atk:5000-6400). Now attack her Herald!' Freja's Herald was protected from the attack, but Freja's Life points were far different as she took a mammoth hit from the Lancer, but she gritted her teeth throughout. 'I'll flip up Damage Diet to halve the damage (Freja LP:6400-4200). Nash had a surprise though, while Freja used her Spell.

'When I take 2000 or more Battle damage, I can use Joining to summon Xyz Avenger from my deck, but I then take 2000 damage (Avenger Atk:1400; Freja LP:4200-2200).' 'Well by sending the Galaxy Destroyer equipped to the graveyard, my monster can attack again (Atk:4800). Now go in again.' Dark Knight Lancer swung in for a second time, and Freja's points dropped desperately low as her monster still survived (Freja LP:2200-800). 'I'll end my turn. Such a shame you can't use your Avenger now.'

(Freja hand: Pot of Desires)

Freja: 'I'll draw and activate the Spell card Pot of Desires. By banishing 10 cards from the top of my deck, I'll draw two. Now I'll attack with Xyz Avenger, straight into your Lancer.' Nash saw this as a symbolic sacrifice, not aware that Freja was very much alive. At the absolute last moment possible, she struck. 'I'll activate the effect of Arcana Force XIV: Temperance in my hand. I don't normally vouch for self restraint, but this one I will do, because I discard it to stop myself doing any damage to myself. And now my Avenger's been destroyed, so are the final three cards of your Extra deck. I'll set a monster, switch Herald to Defence (Def.:3000), and end my turn with a face-down.'

(Nash hand: Lantern Shark, Overlay Buster, Shark Stickers)

Nash: 'I'll draw. With Dark Knight Lancer, I don't need anything else. I'll take out your face-down monster because your Herald's hardly a threat.' This turned out to be a bad move, which he realised as soon as Cyber Jar flipped up (Def.:900). 'When Cyber Jar's flipped up, all monsters on the field bite the dust.' As every monster was sucked into the self-destructing Jar, Nash now looked concerned.

'Now for the fun bit.' 'Cyber Jar's about as fun as a hole in the head.' 'It can be arranged' Freja promised in return. 'Now we both get to reveal five from the top of our decks, any Level 4 or below monsters get summoned, everything else goes to our hands. Since I'm so nice, you can go first.' After some hesitation, he started revealing the cards, finding Buzzsaw Shark, Hammer Shark, Xyz Unit, Overlay Regen and Jawsman. 'I'll set both Buzzsaw and Hammer Sharks. The other three cards go to my hand.'

Freja then looked at her deck, and muttered 'I know you can do this', before showing her cards. 'Drytron Alpha Thuban, Drytron Zeta Aldihibah, Cyber Angel Benten, Cyber Emergency, Diviner of the Herald. I'll summon Diviner (Atk:600), and use her effect to send Herald of the Arc Light from my Extra deck to the graveyard. That triggers Arc Light, to add Meteonis Drytron to my hand.' 'I'll end my turn.'

(Freja hand: Drytron Alpha Thuban, Drytron Zeta Aldihibah, Cyber Angel Benten, Cyber Emergency, Drytron Meteonis Draconids, Meteonis Drytron)

Freja: ''I'll draw and polish you off right now. I'll start with Alpha tribute Benten (Def.:0). Alpha adds Quadrantids to my hand. Then Benten adds Dakini to my hand. Now Meteonis, tribute Draconids to summon the Quadrantids from my graveyard (Atk:4000). And Meteonis' graveyard effect, take 1000 Attack from Alpha (Atk:2000-1000), add itself back to my hand. Meteonis, tribute Quadrantids to summon the Draconids from my graveyard.'

It was at this point that Freja realised she had made an error, so she quickly corrected that. 'Zeta tribute Dakini (Def.:0), Zeta adds Meteonis to my hand. Meteonis, tribute Alpha and Zeta for Dakini (Atk:2700). Dakini's effect forces you to send a monster from your field to the graveyard. So which one's it gonna be? Actually, who cares, I'll just destroy the other one with Dakini anyway.' Dakini used her myriad of swords to slice through the monster Nash kept (Buzzsaw Shark Def.:500), leaving him exposed for a double dose of cosmic ferocity. 'Both of my monsters now attack.' The two Metonis monsters rained down a fierce blast of meteors, which ended the duel (Nash LP:8000-0).

When the duel finished, Freja raised her arm, still glaring at Nash, who seeing the whip come back out, made a sharp escape, backing off and getting away from the duelling zone. Freja picked up a microphone. 'I don't care which one you it is next, if you're associated with them, I'm going to destroy you! I'm going to whip you and whip you until your skin bleeds!' With that chilling warning issued, she walked away.

As she returned backstage, she was quickly ushered into a quiet corner by Rio, to help her calm down. 'Breathe Fre, breathe. Just breathe. Remember, this is about recovery, not revenge. You're not helping Maddy by getting like that, however much my brother absolutely deserves whipping for lying to my face. But we can deal with that at some other point. Right now, we need to stay together, and stay focused.' 'I just… I can't not get angry with them.' 'Get angry, yeah. But not angry to the point where attacking them is the only thing in your mind. Well duelled out there by the way, the Cyber Jar play was something else.'

'I'm just focusing on not holding back at the moment, because that's how I can speak to her, by showing her that I'm not leaving anything in reserve. I'm going out there and giving everything.' 'And you're doing that brilliantly.' 'The only question now is what next.' 'Well you've beaten my brother, it takes a good person to do that, hell I've never done it legit, so why not go after the big fish? Let's face it, beating Aster did technically mean you're now owed a title shot. It's your choice though.' With these words ringing in her ears, Freja went to cool down.

Elsewhere backstage

Claude was on the phone, and was still being very blatant regarding his desire for Maddy. 'I'm telling you, if you saw some of the pictures I've seen, then boy would you suddenly be a ton more interested. It's amazing how shapely they become over time, and the power that I can have over her is really what makes it. Oh, all the power in the world. And then when I get her down on that bed, then she'll realise that Daddy Claude was dominant all along. Yeah, I'll send you'

Before he could finish his conversation, Hassleberry slapped the phone out of his hands, and in a swift moment, his frustration with his mentor boiled over into an eruption. 'That poor girl's being tortured, have you even heard what they're doing to her? She's being tortured and all you can do is run your mouth about getting her in bed just because she hurt your pride once? You're disgusting, and I'm sorry sarge, but I can't go any further with your platoon. From now on, I'm a lone soldier.' He stormed away, leaving Claude shaking his head. 'Stupid boy.'

In the zone, Marko and Zak were entering for their big opportunity. 'The following duel is for the WDC Tag-Team Championships. Introducing first, the team of Marko Anders and Zak Zapata.' As they entered, the commentators discussed how they earned the opportunity. "Marko Anders and Zak Zapata are a young team with huge potential. 19 year old Marko from Finland and 20 year old Zak from New Zealand may only have been teaming up for a matter of weeks, but they hugely impressed in a recent Tag-Team Championship Gauntlet, and after the ex-champions the Frozen Diamonds withdrew from a proposed rematch here, the Board of Directors nominated Marko and Zak for an opportunity… oh no."

The commentators' concern was because Maddy then walked out in her trance, carrying what looked to be a car jack, and before anybody could react, she launched an attack, smashing both of them in the face, and then repeatedly hitting them in the side, while Shannon watched on, enjoying the mayhem, and shouting at Maddy to "hit them harder", an order which she duly obeyed and the ferocity increased, with the two youngsters being absolutely wrecked by her.

This continued until Rhydian walked out into the arena, and told her 'Stop now.' As she immediately did, he beckoned her onwards. She and Shannon both walked towards him slowly, as if connected mentally, and both bowed to him, swearing their full allegiance. He opened his arms as he did, declaring himself as their "Messiah", before raising his arms, and forcing them both to walk out, with him right behind them.

Watching this backstage, Rio was approached by an interviewer. 'Can I just have a moment of your time Ms. Kastle?' 'It's Rio, and sure.' 'You can see Maddy's latest actions and their ramifications, what's your take?' 'That they have no idea about the powers that they're messing with, and when they play with fire, it's only us stopping them from being burned in the resulting inferno. This is a rescue mission first and foremost, but if they continue to push this ridiculous agenda, and if they continue to use our friend, our leader, as a weapon and a toy, then a response will come. The nuclear option is always an option, and I'm more than willing to press that big red button.'

With that stark warning, the local had another question. 'We heard Akiza question your ability to lead earlier, do you have a response to that?' Her response was very level-headed though, far from what the interviewer expected. 'Why would I care what she thinks? The difference is that I'm actually in charge of my people, whereas Akiza just thinks she's the one in charge. What reason do I have to care about what she thinks? Now if you'll excuse me, I have some things to look after.'

In the zone

Lukas was starting to enter for his duel, when the Style Council's music hit and Tee stormed out, hair down, and sporting a dark grey shirt. As she made her way down, she was shouting at Lukas. 'Hey, what's the hold-up? I was told this duel was half an hour ago. Why don't we get going before you accidentally get violent again.' This thought was enough to make Lukas laugh. 'I don't know, there's plenty that I could do to you. Plenty that only your little protector stopped from happening. But you bit the hand that fed you, so now I'm going to have to take you out.' 'Try me.'

Tee Taylor LP:8000 vs. Lukas Chipperfield LP:8000

(Tee hand: Blue-Eyes White Dragon, The White Stone of Ancients, Ancient Rules, Dictator of D, Dragon Revival Rhapsody)

Tee: 'Hopefully this beats some of your fantasies out of you. I'll start with Ancient Rules, to summon out my Blue-Eyes White Dragon (Atk:3000). Then I'll summon The White Stone of Ancients (Atk:600), and tune Level 1 White Stone to Level 8 Blue-Eyes White Dragon, so I can Synchro summon Blue-Eyes Spirit Dragon (Def.:3000). Then by sending Blue-Eyes White Dragon from my deck to the graveyard, I can summon Dictator of D (Def.:1100). After, I can use Dragon Revival Rhapsody because I control a Spellcaster, summoning two Dragons from my graveyard. I'll go for two Blue-Eyes White Dragons, and then overlay them for Thunder End Dragon (Atk:3000). I end my turn.'

(Lukas hand: Snow Plow Hustle Rustle, Night Express Knight, Machine Duplication, Train Connection, Barrage Blast, Raigeki Break)

Lukas: 'Trust me, the only one doing any beating is me, I'm real good at it. I'll summon Night Express Knight by stripping its Attack points. Rhydian's not the only good one at stripping mindless objects down (Atk:3000-0). Its Attack going down does have an advantage though - Machine Duplication (Atk:3000x2). And I'll overlay all three to summon Superdimensional Robot Galaxy Destroyer (Atk:5000). See, it's that easy to overpower you, because you're weak and pathetic, and that was before you decided to run away. And now, you're going to lose for it. Attack Thunder End Dragon.'

'Excuse me, but Dictator of D has a say in that. It allows me to choose the target of all your attacks. And I've decided that you're attacking Spirit Dragon. Then I can tribute Spirit Dragon to summon a different Light Dragon Synchro. I'll summon Golden Cloud Beast - Malong (Def.:1000).' 'I'll redeclare on Thunder End.' 'This time Dictator decides you can attack Malong.' Lukas' powerful robot raised one of its arms, before firing it off like a rocket, exploding on contact with Malong, which covered it in gold dust.

'When Malong hits the grave, one of your cards goes back to the hand. I'll give you three guesses.' The dust that was on the rocket arm of Lukas' monster quickly spread to the rest of the monster, and making it slowly disappear in dust fragments. 'I'll set one card and end my turn. I know you think I'm going to be really scared of you now that you're opposing me, but the truth is, you're the one who should be scared. I get real nasty when people annoy me.'

(Tee hand: Rescue Rabbit)

Tee: 'I'll draw.' 'I'll activate Raigeki Break to discard this Barrage Blast and be rid of your Thunder End.' 'That's fine, I'll summon my Rescue Rabbit (Atk:300). Then by tributing it, I can summon two Divine Dragon Ragnaroks (Atk:1500x2). Now I'll overlay both to summon Queen Dragun Djinn (Atk:2200). Dragun Djinn, attack him directly.' 'Negate Attack, you're not touching me.' 'Fine, I'll wait, I'll switch my other Blue-Eyes to Defence (Def.:3000), and end my turn.'

(Lukas hand: Super Express Bullet Train, Special Schedule, Urgent Schedule)

Lukas: 'I'll draw and activate Special Schedule, bringing back Night Express Knight (Atk:3000). Next I'll summon Super Express Bullet Train through its effect because I control an Eart Machine (Atk:3000). Now I'm overlaying them both to summon Superdreadnought Rail Cannon Super Dora (Atk:3200). Super Dora, attack.' 'I'll make you attack Spirit Dragon. By the way, something you might want to know, Queen Dragun Djinn stops any Dragons being destroyed in battle.' 'Seriously?' he responded, incredibly unimpressed. 'I'll end my turn.'

(Tee hand: Dragon Shield)

Tee: 'I'll draw and use Dragun Djinn's effect to detach a material and summon Blue-Eyes from my graveyard (Def.:2500). I'll end my turn.'

(Lukas hand: Urgent Schedule, Rocket Arrow Express)

Lukas: 'I'll draw for my turn and attack with Super Dora.' 'You can attack Blue-Eyes this time, but it still can't be destroyed.' Super Dora's cannons peppered the majestic dragon with bullets, but it shrugged them all off with ease. 'I end my turn.'

(Tee hand: Dragon Shield, Dust Tornado)

Tee: 'I'll draw, set one and use Dragun Djinn to summon Blue-Eyes (Def.:2500). Then I'll overlay my two Blue-Eyes to summon Number 38: Hope Harbinger Dragon Titanic Galaxy (Def.:2500). And it can negate Spell cards, so now you've got even less of a chance of breaking through. I'll end my turn.'

(Lukas hand: Urgent Schedule, Rocket Arrow Express, Train Connection)

Lukas: 'I'll draw and activate Train Connection.' 'Did you just not listen? I know you've got an issue with taking orders, but take some advice - don't bother with Spells against Titanic Galaxy. I'll use its effect, and your Spell now becomes another material (Xyz materials:2-3).' Getting increasingly frustrated at his opponent's stalling, Lukas ended his turn.

(Tee hand: Dragon Shield, Dragon's Bind)

Tee: 'I'll draw, and set another card.'

(Lukas hand: Urgent Schedule, Rocket Arrow Express, Heavy Freight Train Derricrane)

Lukas: 'I'll draw and end my turn.'

(Tee hand: Dragon Shield, Keeper of the Shrine)

Tee: 'Back to me, I'll set a monster and pass.' By now Lukas was fast running out of patience, as he started to shout at Tee. 'Why are you such a coward?' 'I haven't drawn what I need to win genius. Put two and two together, you'll get four eventually.'

As Lukas drew for his next turn, his frustration boiled over, and he made a whistling sound. Before anyone could react, Maddy came surging out, and bowled Tee over, before she pinned her down, allowing Lukas to start kicking her in the ribs. 'You really thought you could just leave and not pay? Once you're here you never leave. I'm going to make sure there's nothing left of you, you'll be desperate to come back.'

As this was happening, Brooke and Hassleberry rushed out, only for Maddy to run straight into both and send them flying like skittles. This seemed to severely daze the Welsh wonder, whereas Hassleberry stood straight back up, and approached, without seeing Lukas coming up behind him with a metal bar. As he was about to strike though, Maddy speared Hassleberry, with him colliding with Lukas as he fell back. This forced Rhydian to regain order as Lukas got back up, clearly furious at what had happened. The three of them walked out, but it was clear that there was a lack of harmony still.

Backstage, by the entrance gate

As Blair was preparing to go out for her main event, Jana and Emma both approached her, and Jana had a stark warning. 'Be really careful out there, particularly if Maddy's nearby, she's starting to go feral.' 'Pardon?' Emma then explained. 'Her self control is being completely drained, that's what stops Wolfbloods just transforming at will and being totally wild and feral. If this spell she's under goes all the way, she's basically reverted to being a wild animal.' 'So we need to be quick in helping her.' 'Yes, but you specifically need to be careful.' 'I will be, I promise.'

As she walked out, Emma still looked concerned. 'Do you think she will be?' 'I don't know many people more cautious and thoughtful. They're going to have to get up real early to catch Blair out. You know she's ex-Marines don't you?' 'Really? I knew there was something about her, something… almost disciplined and rigid.' 'If you think she's rigid now then you really didn't know her before she met Jade.'

In the zone

Blair's music started, and she marched out, wearing one of Maddy's shirts around her head as a headband of sorts, but unusually without one of her Kabuki masks. 'The following duel is a Grudge Match, and as per a decree from the Board of Directors, there is to be no time limit. Introducing first, representing the Dynasty, from Shelby, Michigan, she is the Jewel of the St. Clair, Blair Flannigan.'

"Blair Flannigan is one of the next big things in professional duelling. The current World Number 1, she will be aware that losing this duel would also mean surrendering her top spot in the rankings to Akiza. This talented young competitor who is still over three months away from turning 21 runs what she refers to as a "Modular" deck, revolving around the Shaddoll monsters, but the "Modular" part is what makes it unique as she constantly customises the deck with a wealth of engines and techs to suit her opponent. She backs opponents into a corner and then strikes back, grinding opponents into the ground. She was seconds from losing to Akiza seven weeks ago, will she be better this time?"

As Akiza started entering, Blair suddenly spun around, and nailed an on-rushing Claude with a pair of brass knuckles she had quietly slipped on during her entrance, making him stumble backwards. This gave her the opportunity to go around the back of him, and hit him again in the neck in a sign of symbolism. Meanwhile Akiza was busy holding the standard, still containing the seven signature names.

"Akiza Izinski is in her 8th season as a professional, and is a former World Champion, so she knows how to get the job done on every occasion. The vicious torturer of Junction 7 has used many forms of Plant-based strategy over time, with her current Heal and Hurt deck doing exactly what it says on the tin, draining opponents' stamina, health and sometimes even sanity while healing herself, gaining revenge for those who tried to do the same to her in the past. This is a second shot at becoming World Number 1 for a 4th time in her career; nobody has held that ranking for longer, at a combined 920 days, but she's got a tough opponent to overcome. Their last duel was decided less than 90 seconds after the time limit expired, this time there will be no such escape for either."

In the zone, Akiza was clearly far from impressed with her assistant's work. 'And that's what I get for relying on other people to do a job. Oh well, I can always rely on Maddy.' 'If you actually want a duel, you're going to shut up real quick, because I'm not made of patience right now. Otherwise, I could just as happily choke you out until you turn blue, and then all your limbs go nice and limp.' This wasn't a threat Akiza took seriously, despite the look on Blair's face. 'Well this shouldn't be too hard. I should have taken you while I had the chance. I'm not going to make that mistake again, this time I'm going to leave you a broken heap and take you to be fixed by my friend Alex.'

No Time Limit: Blair Flannigan LP:8000 vs. Akiza Izinski LP:8000

(Akiza hand: Aroma Jar, Blessed Winds, Dried Winds, Humid Winds, Golden Ladybug)

Turn 1: Akiza: 'It's about time I took out the trash once and for all. Once I'm done with you, joining us will look like the only option. During my Standby phase, I'll reveal Golden Ladybug in my hand to gain 500 Life points (Akiza LP:8000-8500). I'll set a monster and end my turn with three face-downs.'

(Blair hand: Yubel, Shaddoll Fusion, Shaddoll Dragon, Curse of the Shadow Prison, Shaddoll Hedgehog, Fusion Weapon)

Blair: 'The only one taking out the trash is me, because I'm going to lay waste to you! I'll draw and activate Curse of the Shadow Prison. Then I'll activate Shaddoll Fusion, fusing Dragon and Hedgehog to Fusion summon El Shaddoll Winda (Atk:2200). Then Dragon's effect will destroy one of your face-downs, I'll go down the middle, and Hedgehog adds Shaddoll Falco to my hand.'

As she did this, two golden spears rose out of the ground onto Akiza's field (Spellstone Counters:0-2). Then I'll equip Winda with Fusion Weapon, giving her a huge power boost (Atk:2200-3700), and that's where I'll end my turn.' This surprised Akiza, as the crowd popped for Blair's attitude. 'If you want Aroma Jar to gain you some Life, you're going to have to flip it up yourself. See, I've got no confidence issues, because I know that I can duel circles around you or anybody in your little clique, the only person who could even hold a candle to me is the person I'm trying to save.'

'Save from what?' 'Save from you for a start.' She then turned to the crowd. 'Hey, would you all like to know that Akiza's planning on prostituting Maddy out? Because Tee's told us everything, because she's grateful to be away from you.' The announcement saw the crowd turn toxic to Akiza, with several offensive chants being aimed directly at her, while Blair raised the red right hand, and then with tears in her eyes, the ex-Marine fired right up, keeping the crowd captive on her every word.

'So that's why I have to beat you, I have to save her because I know what it's like to be taken advantage of! I HAVE to save her because you won't let her save herself, and everything good that's happened to any of us has involved her! So I'm not going to beat you, I'm going to HUMILIATE you! Like you want to humiliate her! So I don't care if it take 10 minutes or 10 hours, I'm still going to CRUSH YOU!'

(Akiza hand: Golden Ladybug, Solemn Wishes)

Akiza: 'Sweet, but you're not exactly a captivating speaker, so I'd shut up if I were you. I'll draw and during my Standby phase, I'll use Golden Ladybug to reveal itself in my hand and gain 500 Life points (Akiza LP:8500-9000). I end my turn setting another one.'

(Blair hand: Yubel, Shaddoll Falco, Shockwave)

Blair: 'I'll draw, set a card and pass.'

(Akiza hand: Golden Ladybug, Aroma Gardening)

Akiza: 'Before I draw, I'll activate Solemn Wishes. Then when I draw, I'll gain 500 Life points (Akiza LP:9000-9500). Then I'll reveal Golden Ladybug in my hand during the Standby phase (Akiza LP:9500-10,000). You know, you really do make this too easy for me, I remember it's just like when Maddy duelled me, not that she'd do that now obviously. Just face facts, you lost her and you're not getting her back, she belongs just to us now. Your turn anyway.'

(Blair hand: Yubel, Shaddoll Falco, Shockwave, Dark World Dealings)

Blair: 'Here you go again, talking about her like she's some kind of object.' 'Because she will be, as soon as this spell is complete she will be a weapon of mass destruction, a blunt instrument to be manipulated. Because that's just how the world works.' 'Well I'm sorry that you think that, but the way Maddy's always seen it, the world can change. All they need is a reason to. So let me be the reason that this corner of the world changes!'

'I'll draw and activate Dark World Dealings, so we both draw a card and then discard a card (Akiza LP:10,000-10,500).' As Blair drew, she immediately knew her next play. 'Because it's just been discarded, I can summon a little thing called Ghost Wolf (Atk:0).' 'What the hell is that?' Akiza reacted in disgust. 'When it's send from the hand or deck to the grave, Ghost Wolf can slip back onto the field, but I then have to banish the top card of my deck. Now I'll summon Shaddoll Falco (Atk:600), and Level 2 Falco will tune to Level 8 Ghost Wolf. Harnessing the light and the darkness, I will leech both out of her and bring her back home! Appear, the force that transcends Light and Dark, Chaos Angel (Atk:3500).'

'Chaos Angel's effect when it's summoned will banish your Aroma Jar.' As she did so, Akiza's eyes opened wide out of fear. 'Now I'll attack you with Winda and Chaos Angel.' Winda shot puppeteering wires straight into Akiza, while Chaos Angel created two orbs (one light and one dark) in its hands, before throwing them at the Black Rose, decimating her grand Life point total (Akiza LP:10,500-3300). 'I end my turn.'

(Akiza hand: Golden Ladybug, Aroma Gardening, Evil Thorn)

Akiza: 'I'll draw and gain 500 from Solemn Wishes, then reveal Golden Ladybug to gain 500 (Akiza LP:3300-4300). I'll summon Evil Thorn now (Atk:100), using its effect to tribute itself, deal 300 damage and then summon two more.' The thorn on Akiza's field inflated and then burst, firing thorns at Blair, but she dodged easily (Blair LP:8000-7700, Evil Thorn Atk:100x2). Now I'll activate Aroma Gardening and link off my two Evil Thorns to summon Link 2, Aromaseraphy Jasmine (Atk:1800).'

To Akiza, this was the scent of victory returning, but Blair didn't look even slightly flustered. 'Would it kill you to look slightly concerned sometimes?' 'Why should I? I'm not going to lose to you.' 'Listen' 'No you listen. You might have been able to almost fluke a win last time, but let's not forget, I had you beat as well. If you hadn't have deus-ex'd a draw, I had you down for the Terminal count. So no, I'm not going to look concerned, because I'm not.' Trying to hide her embarrassment at Blair's tirade, Akiza continued her turn.

'Because I summoned an Aroma monster, my Gardening blesses me with 1000 more Life points (Akiza LP:4300-4800). And now I'll use Jasmine's effect because I gained Life points, adding Aromage Marjoram to my hand. Then I'll activate Humid Winds, gaining 500 Life points (Akiza LP:4800-5300). And I'll also activate my Blessed Winds, to shuffle an Evil Thorn into my deck and gain 500 more (Akiza LP:5300-5800). I end my turn.'

(Blair hand: Yubel, Shockwave, Shaddoll Squamata)

Blair: 'I'll draw and attack your Jasmine with El Shaddoll Winda.' Winda's strings flew out, and pierced directly through Jasmine's heart, destroying it (Akiza LP:5800-4000). 'When Jasmine is destroyed, Aromage Marjoram summons herself out from my hand (Def.:1500), and gives me 500 Life points (Akiza LP:4000-4500).' 'Well I'll take it out with Chaos Angel.' Two more orbs materialised in the Angel's hands, and it used them to make Marjoram inexplicably explode violently. 'I'll set a monster and end my turn.'

(Akiza hand: Golden Ladybug, 5 Card Salute)

Akiza: 'I'll draw, then reveal Ladybug (Akiza LP:4500-5500). And would you look at that which I just drew, it's a card you know quite well' 'You mean it's the card you stole? Because you hate us so much that you have to use our tools to even come close to living with us? You know they say imitation's the sincerest form of flattery don't you?' 'Trust me, you're not going to get any flattery from me.' 'Nor do I want any. So take your turn before you accidentally say something nice.'

'Well you called it, 5 Card Salute. That draws me five cards, but I take 4000 points of' 'Let's be real, nobody's ever going to take that, that only exists so it doesn't get banned.' 'Why are you saying all of this?' a confused Akiza felt the need to ask. 'Well we don't need it to make you look stupid. Which is why I'll let you into a little secret: only one of us is using the card. And it's not me. You should take your extra 500 by the way, you need every point you can get your grubby hands on (Akiza LP:5500-6000).'

'The little kid's grown a big mouth has she? Well I'll just have to shut her up. I'll summon Aromage Rosemary (Atk:1800). That gives me another 1000 Life points through the effect of Gardening (Akiza LP:6000-7000), and Rosemary's effect will force Winda into her rather measly Defence mode (Def.:800). And for good measure, I'll use the effect of Aromalilith Rosalina, sending her to my grave and gaining more Life back, half of Rosemary's Attack.' Akiza's crafty combos saw her points go right back up, almost to where they started (Akiza LP:7000-7900).'

'Now Rosemary, make her Winda smell the scent of defeat.' As the attack came in, Blair didn't so much as bat an eyelid. 'I mean I didn't think you'd win, but I thought you'd at least try. Because a Dark-attribute monster was used to summon Chaos Angel, my monsters are immune to destruction in battle.' 'How annoying. I'll set another card and end my turn.'

(Blair hand: Yubel, Shockwave, Geistgrinder Golem)

Blair: 'I'll draw, and it's about time that you started to suffer.' The normally placid Blair then cracked her neck, and a smile spread across her face. 'You don't know how long I've waited to do this! I know how much you like attacking me, so I'll give you the chance - I'll summon Geistgrinder Golem. And I hope you like the look of him, because he's joining your team (Atk:3000). Then because of that, I can summon this from my hand - Yubel (Atk:0).'

This was a move which completely took Akiza by surprise. 'You what now? The cheek of it, you complain about me stealing some little mindless' 'I'd advise you to shut up, otherwise you're not going to live long enough to make Maddy become some stupid Wolfblood Witch or whatever it is you think you're growing in a lab somewhere. I'll set a card face-down and end my turn. During the End phase, Yubel has to tribute a monster, so you can take Shaddoll Squamata.'

(Akiza hand: Golden Ladybug, Aromaseraphy Angelica, Aroma Blend, Aroma Garden)

Akiza: 'I'll draw and gain my combined 1000 (Akiza LP:7900-8900). You'll be shocked to learn that I don't fancy attacking your Yubel today, so for now I'm content to set up my Aroma Garden, gaining 500 Life points and making all my monsters stronger (Akiza LP:8900-9400; Rosemary Atk:1800-2300, Geistgrinder Atk:3000-3500). I'll end my turn.' 'Before you do, I'll activate Shockwave.' 'You're just making your issue bigger.'

That was when she found out what Blair was achieving though. 'I'm targeting Yubel.' As the pulse of electricity broke the Fiend, the play continued in earnest. 'Because when Yubel is destroyed, she revives a little bit… nastier. Rise, Yubel - Terror Incarnate (Atk:0). Now of course there's a penalty here, because Terror Incarnate destroys all my monsters during the End phase.' Terror Incarnate started to raze Blair's field with its two heads, but as it did, she laughed. 'Funny thing is, Winda can't be destroyed by card effects. And because Chaos Angel was summoned with a Light monster, any Synchro I control can't be destroyed by card effects.'

(Blair hand: Dimensionhole)

Blair: 'I'll draw and activate Dimensionhole, banishing Terror Incarnate until my next Standby phase. That triggers the effect of Terror Incarnate, so your life's about to get even worse.' An enormous demonic dragon with two heads and a body of sixteen sinister eyes rose up from the ground, intimidating Akiza. 'Appear, Yubel - The Ultimate Nightmare (Atk:0). Ultimate Nightmare, attack Geistgrinder. When Geistgrinder battles a Yubel monster, I gain 3000 Life points (Blair LP:7700-10,700). And when Ultimate Nightmare battles, you have all the damage reflected back at you.' The blast from Geistgrinder being torched and exploding caught Akiza totally off guard, and she fell, splitting the front of her head open on the edge of the zone (Akiza LP:9400-5900). 'I'll end my turn.'

(Akiza hand: Golden Ladybug, Aromaseraphy Angelica, Aroma Blend, Lava Golem)

Akiza: 'I'll draw, taking my 1000 (Akiza LP:5900-6900). Then I'll summon Angelica (Atk:0, Akiza LP:6900-7900). And Blessed Winds will then shuffle back my Rosalina into the deck, giving me another 500 points (Akiza LP:7900-8400). Finally I can tribute both your Chaos Angel and Winda to summon Lava Golem (Def.:2500).' 'What - you think Lava Golem scares me? I couldn't care less about it.' 'Good, you won't care when I activate my Raigeki Break then, discarding Aroma Blend to take care of your Golem. Or is it my Golem? Yours, mine, all the same… well apart from your little leader at least. I end my turn.'

(Blair hand: Nightmare Pain)

Blair: 'I'll draw, and during the Standby phase, Dimensionhole spits Terror Incarnate back out (Atk:0). Then I'll attack your Rosemary.' 'I'm sure you're really keen on me caring (Akiza LP:8400-6600).' 'I mean you don't care now, but we'll see after I activate Nightmare Pain and end my turn.' Sarcastically, Akiza then told Blair off. 'You know, it's good custom to tell your opponent what your card does.' 'It's also good custom to not kidnap, but nobody ever told you that.'

(Akiza hand: Golden Ladybug, Aroma Jar)

Akiza: 'I'll draw and gain my 1000 (Akiza LP:6600-7600). Then I'll end' 'Hang on, where are you going?' 'I'm ending my turn' she stated confidently, unaware of the surprise lurking on the field. 'No you're not. Nightmare Pain's effect forces your monsters to attack my Yubel monsters. So take your pick, although I have to warn you, there's no difference.' 'I'll attack your Ultimate Nightmare then.' 'That's all fine. By the way, because of Nightmare Pain, you're going to be taking double the damage (Akiza LP:7600-4000). 'Now I'll end my turn.'

(Blair hand: Chain Material)

Blair: 'Have you got the message yet?' 'What message?' 'Wherever you run, whatever you do, I'm always going to come after you, and you're always gonna feel just a fraction of the hurt I live with every day. I'll attack your set monster with Ultimate Nightmare.' As Nightmare roasted Akiza's Aroma Jar (Def.:500), Blair continued the offensive. 'I can destroy your Jar now.' With Ultimate Nightmare attacking, Akiza and her Jar weren't safe even after she shored up her defences (Akiza LP:4000-3000). 'I'll end my turn with a face-down.'

(Akiza hand: Golden Ladybug, Blooming of the Darkest Rose)

Akiza: 'I'll draw (Akiza LP:3000-4000).' After much consideration, Akiza worked out her plan. 'If I don't put a monster on the field, you're just useless against me. I end my turn.'

(Blair hand: Polymerisation)

Blair: 'I'll draw.' As she did, she saw her plan coming to fruition, and closed her eyes. 'I promise, we'll bring you home.' She then turned to Akiza, and gritted her teeth. 'Did you really think you were safe just because you're a chicken? I'll activate Chain Material, and then activate Polymerisation.' Akiza looked concerned by this, but she didn't know what awaited her. 'The materials for this are a Yubel monster plus any amount of other monsters. So I'll send a comfortable 10 monsters from my deck, and summon the embodiment of Maddy - beautiful, fearless, and conquering. Appear, Yubel - the Loving Defender Forever (Atk:0).'

'And for each material I summoned it with, you take 500 damage. Let this be a lesson for you - wherever you run, I will find you. And until she's home, you're never going to stop looking over your shoulders.' Loving Defender created a fireball in its demonic claw, which wiped Akiza out in a dominant win for Blair, retaining her World #1 spot (Akiza LP:4000-0).

As the duel concluded, Blair didn't get any opportunity to celebrate, as Maddy ambushed her with a punch to the back of the head, while screaming 'I die so I can be reborn!' over and over. Lukas and Rhydian then walked out, and the Australian restrained Blair, as Rhydian walked up to her and slapped her in the face time and again until her cheeks were both red raw, before screaming in her face. 'You're nothing, you're just a pathetic little girl. And now, you're going to lose everything as well.'

As he said this, Kieran walked out, dragging Ally behind him, arms and legs bound by rope. As Blair screamed in fear, the youngster was placed in the centre of the zone, and Rhydian laughed, before getting a microphone out. 'Tonight is the night, tonight you will see Blair Flannigan the almighty, lose everything. Maybe then she'll see that trying to take my property isn't a good idea.' He then turned to his obedient girlfriend. 'Maddy, spear her.'

She didn't though, instead looking at him, confused. 'Maddy, spear that little brat so far that you break her!' Hearing this, Maddy growled, and then went to launch herself, but didn't move. The next time she tried, Blair cried to her. 'Maddy, hear me, don't do this. Take me out, I don't care, but don't hurt her, she's a kid! She didn't ask for any of this!' Rhydian then grabbed Maddy by the ponytail, and screamed in her face. 'Maddy, remember who your master is.' As he said this, her head tilted again. 'Now on the count of 3, spear her. 1, 2, 3.' Maddy briefly paused again, and then launched herself.

As she was in mid-air though, some British military music started, and Astrid ran out to an incredible response, flying down to the zone and nailing everybody in sight with spinning kicks, and then, seeing that Maddy was down, tried to dive onto her ankle, only for a dazed Akiza to pull her away at the last moment, leaving Astrid mere inches away from grabbing her friend. So fired up was she though, that she didn't think much of this and stood back up. As Rhydian looked at Akiza and then snatched Maddy back, Hannah walked out with Caprice.

'You really thought all of that would work? You really thought we'd leave Blair out here all alone, leave you to kill a child? You're now in a world that you couldn't possibly understand Rhydian. You got rid of Phil, but that just unlocked the door to the Final Bosses of this world. It's time you met the Nuclear Option. What happens when you combine the strength of three? Caprice Morris, Blair Flannigan, and Astrid Hofferson. Alone, they are strong. United, they are the Varsity Club, and they're going to destroy you!' As she said this, Rhydian for the first time, looked concerned.

Backstage

Seeing Ally after she had been brought back by Astrid, Blair immediately hugged her foster daughter. 'I am so sorry Al, I had no idea they were going to do that, I'm so so sorry' 'I was just going to the toilet and that Shannon took me.' Suddenly, Jade ran in. 'Is she ok? I took her to the toilet, watched her go into the cubicle, and waited outside there.' 'We were talking about how you were going to smash Akiza, and you did! You smashed her!' Still crying, Blair fist-bumped Ally, while saying 'I smashed her.', and Jade continued explaining.

'We were talking, and the next thing I know she's screaming that someone's got her. I climbed over but she'd already gone, we've all spent the best part of an hour looking for her.' Blair didn't get angry though, but instead just hugged her. 'I don't blame you Jade, you're so good and beautiful and incredible.' Meanwhile, Astrid was still checking on Ally, who appeared to somehow not have a single scratch on her.

'I promise you, they didn't hurt me.' 'I'm just so thankful Maddy couldn't spear you like she does.' This is when Ally gave everyone a shocking assessment. 'It wasn't "she couldn't", it's "she wouldn't", Maddy refused to spear me.' 'But Ally, you know that's not possible right now.' Angry that she wasn't believed, she protested, stamping her feet and shouting 'I'm not lying! She wouldn't hurt me, Auntie Maddy loves me! Nobody could make her hurt me!' Everyone was still in disbelief, until Emma walked up to her, and put her arm around Ally.

'You're ok chuck.' She then turned to everyone else. 'If she's saying this, then maybe we should believe her? Sometimes these kids are smarter than us old fogies, they see things that nobody else can do. So if Ally's saying that she couldn't do it, then maybe she actually couldn't, maybe, just maybe, we're starting to get through to her, we're starting to break the barriers. And if that ice is chipping away' Astrid then finished the sentence. 'Then maybe we've found a weakness.'

Next time: Astrid starts to regret her near miss, while Lydia starts to dig towards the truth, and Rhydian inadvertently puts Maddy in grave danger. R: Ultra Evolution Book 10: Dormant Danger