DUKE'S GAMBIT

One fights to rule. The other rides to overthrow

- By Manaal Mahatme

Once upon a time, there was a Duke who ruled the streets — not with nobility, but with noise, skids, and wheelies. It was feared by the feeble-minded, adored by enthusiasts, and respected by all. For over a decade, there was no real threat to the 390 Duke’s dominion. Many tried, but none succeeded — until whispers began to rise of a new challenger to the throne. A warrior born in the sleepy town of Baramati, forged for battle, and carrying a name that rumbled like thunder: Tuono.

This warrior’s name wasn't unfamiliar. The Tuono bloodline hailed from the distant land of Noale — steeped in speed, flair, and stormy intent. Naturally, expectations were sky-high. When the kingdom first caught a glimpse of this rising storm, it became clear: the Tuono had the Duke’s throne in its crosshairs. But the Chakan-born ruler wasn’t about to surrender. The day had finally arrived — their first face-off.

There was silence. Face-offs weren't new for the 390 Duke, but this time, something was different. This was the first real threat to its reign — and you could see it on the Orange Monarch’s face. The Baramati Renegade, meanwhile, looked utterly unfazed. That extra cylinder, the edge in performance — it wasn’t just hardware. It was confidence. And it showed.