AN:Thank you everyone for your support and/or readership! I will try to improve my dialogue as it CAN be confusing, but please give me your support as I am still learning. To avoid confusion over the groups forming and splitting last leg, here's the team-ups so you can remember!

Shrooms and Shells:

Toadsworth/Toad and Kooper/Kolorado

Triple Threat:

Daisy/Rosalina, Scorch/Bobbery, and Luigi/Elvin

Four the Score:

BJ/JT, Big/Lil Massif, Mallow/Geno, and Toadette/Birdo

Other than that, please enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Chapter Three: The Three Expresses~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Last time on The Amazing Race...

Twelve teams had reached the roof of Princess Peach's Castle, believing it to be the pit stop, only to continue on a double-leg placed in the first leg! The teams flew off to Choco Mountain, with two teams getting a boost from the series of flights.

"Come on Starlow, we ain't out of this yet!"

"You know, that's actually a smart move."

Upon arrival, teams were introduced to a new racer hidden inside one of them: Choco Elvin.

"CHOCOLATE! CHOCOLATE!"

"Dang it Professor! Stop quoting Spongebob!"

Which led to a split up of teams.

"Your teammate just ain't stable!"

"I'm sorry old chap..."

Bitter feelings between the sections.

"Luigi's starting to scare me."

And brand new team-ups.

"We're teamed up with the Massifs AND Mallow and Geno?"

"How about me and Scorch team up with you and the girls?"

With that came rivalries as well though.

"YOU WANNA TRY THAT AGAIN?! COME ON! I DARE YOU!"

"You're gonna regret leaving us and the girls behind. That's my promise, and I'll do anything to keep it!"

Two teams that received penalties earlier in the leg fell back from their original arrivals, but stayed in the race.

"Heh, either way I'm just glad we're still in it."

While an incorrect Detour choice eliminated the Kongs instead, leaving them to wonder just what could have been.

Funky and Diddy could be seen walking off, Funky slowly shaking his head.

~~~~~~Scorch and Bobbery at Peak Perfomance, Kongs sent Back to Base~~~~~~

After a team's elimination, they may pick one team to give leftover funds and one other item. So who did the Kongs pick?

The eliminated pair was in a dark room, still frustrated, but a little happier at this news. Having made their decision, a team was called in. Funky addressed them:

"We thought about it long and hard, and me and Diddy agreed that you have something in common with us. So as a result, Ace and Clay...we choose to give you our remaining coins from the first leg."

Ace looked elated at the good news, while Clay gave only a sly smile.

"Thank you, me and Clay will use it the best we can."

"Good. We are also allowed to give you a single item. Diddy and I, as a result, chose an object we found in the first half of the leg, in that dreaded library."

Flashback: Funky and Diddy Kong-9:41pm, Day 1

Diddy could be seen frantically scrambling through a nearby shelf while Funky was taking a breather. Diddy hadn't found the clue yet, but he'd found something else.

"Hey Dad! Take a look at this thing!"

It seemed to be a sphere of some kind, glowing a bright sky blue. Funky could have sworn he felt an aura pulsing from it.

"Hm, interesting find son. Keep looking for the clue! We'll investigate that artifact next leg."

"As you know, me and Diddy aren't gonna get to that, so we're passing the task to you."

Funky then handed the mysterious object over to Ace, and at that moment, it glowed just a bit brighter, as if it had found its owner. No one noticed though, as Clay decided to ask something then.

"We're both thankful for the gifts guys, really. But why did ya choose us?"

Funky put on a small smile, glad to explain.

"When we were eliminated, we figured that our boost should go to someone who could knock out a powerful team. We heard how the Juniors had tricked you to get ahead, yet they finished behind you still."

"Me and Dad decided to help you because we all have somethin' against the Juniors. Our hope is for you to last until the end, or at least longer than them. You up for it?"

A pair of smirks made their opinion clear.

"Me and Clay? We're ready any day!"

And the orb flashed once again.

Will Scorch and Bobbery come out on top again? Who will become the first victims of the Yield? What the heck is that stone? And just who will finish last this leg? Find out on this episode...of The Amazing Race!

This leg, due to the bonuses from both the first Detour AND the Carpool, bonuses are as follows:

Daisy and Rosalina: 1 hour, 25 minutes

Scorch and Bobbery: 25 minutes

Mallow and Geno: 25 minutes

Big and Lil Massif: 15 minutes

Because of this, Daisy and Rosalina, who checked-in sixth at 9:34am...

"Yeah! Take that Traffic Report!"

...will depart first at 8:09pm.

Daisy could be seen visibly nervous, either from the clue in her hand, the fact that Scorch and Bobbery were starting only a minute after her and Rosalina, or maybe both. No matter what the reason was didn't matter anymore though, as the clock signaled the start of their second leg. Daisy wore a light green jacket and jeans while Rosalina had the same, but with her jacket a light blue.

Daisy and Rosalina: Starting in First, 8:09pm, Day 2

"Come on Rosy! What's it say?!"

"Make your way on foot down to the Choco Collection Camp and search the area for your clue and ticket for the train to the airport, the destination told in the next clue. You have 86 coins for this leg of the race. WARNING: Yield ahead!"

Teams must now head on foot to the Choco Collection Camps and follow the marked path to the search area. Simple enough, right? WRONG, for they must search over 700 piles of rock candy for only one of eleven clues hidden in them, each holding a train ticket for one ride of any length, but the train arrives only on the half-hour. The North-Choco Airport may be only 40 minutes away, but remember that most airports close at ten. After that, they will have to ride another hour to the Caramel City Airport. If teams find any items other than a clue, they ARE allowed to keep it. This applies to ALL search challenges.

"So we have what? 44 coins plus 86? That's...130, right?"

"Were you a cheerleader Daisy?"

"No, why?" Rosalina rolled her eyes at this.

"Oh, no reason..."

They then headed around the factory and started down the mountain path.

"We need to avoid mistakes this leg! I just KNOW there's gonna be another Traffic Report this leg, and the last thing we need is for it to hurt US. One thing I figure though, is that it usually will hit those in the middle of the pack because the time they'll pick will be so it's guaranteed to hit someone. Right now, I think it won't hurt me and Rosy since we're first to leave, so thank you Carpool! On a side note, is it my fault that math isn't my best subject?! Rosy may be smarter at some stuff, but she doesn't have to rub it in..."

Where the girls had been, a new pair stood in their place. Scorch had a yellow T-shirt that read "Trailblazer" and gray sweatpants.

"Hey Bobbery, it's time! Rip the clue open!"

Scorch and Bobbery: Starting in Second, 8:10pm, Day 2

The admiral glanced over the clue quickly.

"...alright Scorch, follow me."

"Wait, can't I read it too?"

"No need Scorch, nothing you'd care about."

"Dude, the race is done in teams, not leaders and sidekicks!"

"Dude? Where are we, the 1960's Scorch?"

"UGH, that's not the-you know what? Never mind, let's go."

While Scorch seemed ticked, Bobbery had a smug grin in sharp contrast. Well, at least you'd think he'd have one. Hard to tell with that stache.

"Thank you. Taxi!"

Choco Collection Camps

"Hey! We're the first ones here!"

Scorch and Bobbery: Currently in First, 8:18am

Bobbery took a quick look around the camp, then set to work. Scorch couldn't resist a loud groan.

"Man, this blows! How many carts full are there?!"

"The supervisor said there were 800 full mine carts, and eleven clues."

"UUUUGH. Let's hurry, the first train leaves in ten minutes."

"So what was the difference between the library and the camps," Scorch explained, "was that while the library was bigger, the clues weren't hidden, unless you count that weird one the librarian gave the Koopas. Here, you had to dig through each cart and through the rocks, and even then you might miss something."

Choco Factory

Geno was holding the clue in his left appendage, which was almost a hand except for there being wood instead of flesh. Mallow was standing by him in silence, in a dark blue sweater and brown sweatpants. Geno, in a red windbreaker and blue jeans, then ripped the clue open as the clock signaled their start time.

Mallow and Geno: Starting in Third, 8:22pm, Day 2

"Hm, bet there's a catch Mallow, when we search for the clue."

"Dude, you know I suck at bets!"

"Ha! That reminds me, you owe me ten coins when we get back home, from your LAST bet."

"I know...well let's go!"

Choco Collection Camps

"Hey Daisy! I see the camps!"

Daisy and Rosalina: Currently in Second, 8:27pm

"Sweet! Let's get to work!"

Daisy then saw the first team to arrive, and shook her head.

"Hey Rosy, did you see Scorch and Bobbery pass us?"

"Um, no. Why?"

"They beat us here."

Rosalina looked surprised, but remembered there were nine other teams behind, and that it didn't matter yet.

"Did they take a taxi?"

"Hmmm, it's possible."

"If so, then don't worry. They're now racing with a thirty minute penalty."

Daisy looked elated at the very thought of it.

"Heh, take that, the girls got this leg! First place here we come!"

She then punched the air in early celebration, but became annoyed again very quickly.

"Hey Scorch, we got the clue!"

"And two minutes before the first train, talk about a taking an early lead! So can I at least hear our next destination?"

"Why not? Buy tickets to Wakeport at the airport you choose. Once there, make your way to the Wakeport Tour Agency Building and take a tour of the town."

Teams must now head to either airport and purchase plane tickets to Wakeport. Once there, they must head to the Wakeport Tour Agency Building and take the City Tour. Along the tour are the next eleven clues. If there are more teams waiting for a tour then there are spots on said tour, who gets on will be determined by the order they arrived using the stickers by the entrance.

"All right! This is your leg to win Bobbery, it's water time!"

"Heh, exactly. Now let's catch that train."

Train Station

Scorch and Bobbery: First on Choco Express 1, departing at 8:30pm

The train had just started moving, so Scorch and Bobbery were the only ones on.

"Aw yeah! Chest bump!*bump*"

"Thanks for not saying high five again Scorch."

"Heh, no prob. So how'd you find the clue so quickly?"

"I'm a treasure hunter Scorch, so I've learned how to find shiny yellow objects in large piles of rocks. In fact, it was easier than most of my hunts, since there were those carts."

"Right, I'll have to remember that."

Choco Factory

Kooper was jogging in place, correctly predicting the first clue would be traveled on foot, while Kolorado rolled his eyes. Kooper was wearing a blue T-shirt and cargo shorts while Kolorado had his signature explorer's outfit on. Kooper glanced at his watch.

"Dude, open the clue!"

Kooper and Kolorado: Starting in Fourth, 8:36pm, Day 2

Kolorado shook his head.

"You sure I'm not supposed to eat it?"

"Whoa, careful there. Dangerous things happen when old people use sarcasm."

"And just who are you calling old?"

"Kolorado, you're the only other person here."

"...shut up."

Choco Collection Camps

"Ha! The girls are still here Mallow!"

Mallow and Geno: Currently in Third, 8:44pm

"Well hopefully they'll have a nice, long stay! Let's get ahead!"

Daisy sighed, "another team's here Rosy."

"When Scorch and Bobbery left on the 8:30 train, I figured it was a two team race still," Rosalina explained. "When Mallow and Geno arrived, the battle for first got a lot more complicated. The 9:00 train was the second and last train that could arrive in time for anyone to fly from North-Choco, so whoever got on that train was in the battle for first and had a decent time gap ahead of everyone else."

"Ugh, there goes our lead."

"Hey! Maybe not! I found a clue!"

Daisy and Rosalina: Currently in Second, 8:46pm

"Yes! We're still in the race for first Daisy! Let's go!"

Choco Factory

Luigi was mounted on Choco Elvin so they could take off once the clock started. From what Luigi had read online, the North airport was closer than the South one, so he'd head behind the factory once the leg started. He had chosen to wear a brown jacket and cargo pants to avoid stains and had kept Elvin in his clothes from the last leg so he could pick once consciousness returned, and sanity along with it. He checked his watch.

Luigi and Elvin: Starting in Fifth, 8:47pm, Day 2

Opening the clue, Luigi directed his companion down the rocky mountain path. In the distance, Elvin could be heard screaming something about a rocket banjo.

Choco Collection Camps

"Hey, we're here Kooper! Ready for a search challenge?"

Kooper and Kolorado: Currently in Fourth, 8:49pm

"Dude, you know I am! It's my job for crying out loud!"

Kolorado couldn't help a chuckle at that.

"Really? Mine too! What a coincidence."

Mallow seemed disappointed at the new arrivals.

"Geno, the Koopas are here."

"I know Mallow, but we can't leave without the clue."

Mallow seemed ticked, "whenever the Koopas arrive at a search task, you just lost any lead you had on them. Heck, why didn't they just give the Koopas the clue upon arrival? Would've taken them longer that way."

"Alright! Slow down Elvin!"

Luigi and Elvin: Currently in Fifth, 8:54pm

Luigi walked over to the supervising Koopa.

"Hello sir, is it against the rules to eat the rocks in the carts?"

The Koopa seemed confused.

"Um, no. Any reason?"

"Nothing, just my partner having eaten 3 mine carts' contents already."

"Is he okay?"

"Yeah, just temporary chocolate stimulated insanity. Nothing new."

"Well, if you're sure."

The three teams continued searching, hoping to be lucky enough to get on the second train. Meanwhile, Daisy and Rosalina watched from the train, clearly hoping the opposite.

"Five more minutes Daisy."

"Ugh, this is so stressful!"

"Welp, we've got company. Two of the teams finished."

Kooper and Kolorado: Currently in Third, 8:56pm

Mallow and Geno: Currently in Fourth, 8:56pm

Daisy looked like she wanted to punch something.

"Crap! Four-way battle for first now."

"Better than a four-way battle for last, that's what I say."

"Still don't like it. I would've preferred that at least Luigi be one of the teams on this train."

Daisy and Rosalina: First on Choco Express 2, departing at 9pm

Kooper and Kolorado: Second on Choco Express 2, departing at 9pm

Mallow and Geno: Third on Choco Express 2, departing at 9pm

Kooper and Kolorado could be seen boarding the train, with Mallow and Geno seconds behind. Right after, the doors closed and the train started off.

"You know the how the old saying goes:" Kolorado stated bluntly, "three's a crowd. Good thing I'm not claustrophobic then!"

Luigi sighed. "Well there went any chance we had at the top this leg. At least Elvin's happy right now."

The camera then scrolled over to Elvin rampaging through the mine carts, a blue glowing orb visible, just like the one the Kongs found in the library. Another one was right next to it.

North-Choco Airport

Scorch and Bobbery: Currently in First, 9:12pm

Scorch had just left the Snoozer Skies desk, and walked to Bobbery.

"Alright Captain, here's the situation. I got us two tickets for the last route to Wakeport from here with one connection. We leave at 10pm for Ankylosaurus Airport, the capital of Dinosaur Land. We land at 1:50am, and leave at 2:40am to Wakeport, landing when the airport opens. I think that only those on the 9pm train can catch this flight too."

Scorch and Bobbery: First on Snoozer Skies 43 to Ankylosaurus Airport

Scorch and Bobbery: First on Snoozer Skies 178 to Wakeport, arriving at 6am, Day 3

Bobbery glanced at Scorch, then at the tickets.

"First things first, it's admiral, not captain. Second, that means only up to five teams will be with us racing for first."

"You really think it will be that good of a flight Captain?" Scorch inquired.

"ADMIRAL, but yes. I checked the Internet cafe, and the first possible flight combo from Caramel City arriving on the 9:30pm train would be arriving around 8:30am. Let's hope one of those four teams missed the 9 train."

Choco Factory

"Toadsworth, I know you're not exactly supposed to be fashion savvy, but how did you figure it was a good idea to wear a yellow speedo when we're on the top of a mountain?"

Toadsworth and Toad: Starting in Sixth, 9:10pm, Day 2

Yes, Toadsworth was INDEED wearing just that and nothing else, so enjoy those mental images. Toad, to everyone's relief, was wearing a plain white tee and cargo pants, proving that at least HE had some fashion sense.

"Well Toad, SOMEONE'S gotta make bold decisions."

"IN THE RACE Toadsworth, not in fashion! The only way you'll help us like that is if it makes the other teams go blind!"

Shaking his head, Toad started down the mountain with Toadsworth following closely behind.

Choco Collection Camps

9:15pm

"ATTENTION ALL RACERS. THIS IS A TRAFFIC REPORT. 200 OF THE 800 MINE CARTS IN THE SEARCH AREA ARE TO BE REMOVED ALONG WITH ANY CLUES INSIDE THEM. ONCE ALL OTHER CLUES HAVE BEEN FOUND, THE REMAINING TEAMS WILL BE REQUIRED TO TAKE A SIXTY MINUTE PENALTY BEFORE RECEIVING THEIR CLUE. HAVE FUN SUCKERS!"

Luigi sighed, then took a look through the carnage from Elvin's rampage. He found a hint of yellow under a pile of rubble and was elated to see it was indeed the clue they'd been searching for.

"Yes! Won't have to worry about the Traffic Report this leg!"

Luigi and Elvin: Currently in Fifth, 9:16pm

Luigi saw Elvin harassing the supervisor by taking his shell. Luigi hopped over and swiftly snatched the shell and Elvin, giving the shell back to the embarrassed turtle, and getting on the train with Elvin tucked under his arm. Luckily the trains weren't made of chocolate.

"Wakeport eh?" Luigi noticed, "that town was a real snoozer, at least for me."

If Elvin was sober, Luigi would've gotten slapped.

Luigi and Elvin: First on Choco Express 3, departing at 9:30pm

"Hey Speedo! Hurry up, I see the camps!"

Toadsworth and Toad: Currently in Sixth, 9:29pm

"Good, let's take a look for that clue!" Toadsworth proclaimed. Meanwhile, several workers could be seen bursting into laughter in the background. Toad groaned.

"Sure, let's hurry."

Luigi could be seen through the train window in the background as it left the station, trying to keep Elvin from breaking anything.

Choco Collection Camp Office

The head Bob-omb could be seen waiting at his desk, the supervising Koopa from outside bringing the clues collected. There were three.

The boss smirked.

North-Choco Airport

Kooper and Kolorado: Currently in Second, 9:41pm

Daisy and Rosalina: Currently in Third, 9:42pm

Mallow and Geno: Currently in Fourth, 9:42pm

"Two tickets to Wakeport!" Kooper stated impatiently.

Kooper had a blank stare on his face. "It was just me, Kolorado, and the alliance we had just ditched. Fun times, woo..."

Kooper and Kolorado: Second on Snoozer Skies 43 to Ankylosaurus Airport

Kooper and Kolorado: Second on Snoozer Skies 178 to Wakeport, arriving at 6am, Day 3

Daisy was next, "we'll take the same thing."

Daisy and Rosalina: Third on Snoozer Skies 43 to Ankylosaurus Airport

Daisy and Rosalina: Third on Snoozer Skies 178 to Wakeport, arriving at 6am, Day 3

And then Mallow, "we need what they got."

Mallow and Geno: Fourth on Snoozer Skies 43 to Ankylosaurus Airport

Mallow and Geno: Fourth on Snoozer Skies 178 to Wakeport, arriving at 6am, Day 3

Scorch walked up to the six of them. "So Stache and Crazy got left behind. You okay Daisy?"

She shrugged, "I'd prefer if they had made it on, but I'm confident that they'll catch up."

The other four walked away from the alliance members. Kooper spoke first.

"Daisy's right you know. The Ghostbusters WILL catch up, especially when Choco Elvin wears off."

Geno sighed, "we know, but how can we stop them?"

Kolorado remembered something, "wait, our first clue mentioned a Yield ahead."

Mallow gasped, "you're right! If the girls or Scorch and Bobbery beat us there, they'll try to eliminate the Juniors!"

"Or me and Kolorado," Kooper pointed out. "We finished first at the fake, second at the real, and are tied for the lead. Someone wants us gone by now."

"So how do WE use the Yield if it's available?" Geno questioned.

"We Yield the Ghostbusters." Kolorado stated. "The girls aren't a threat, and Scorch and Bobbery wouldn't be in danger even if they were Yielded. Once Luigi and Elvin get back up to the front, they'll be a wild card. No one wants a wild card in a million dollar race. By eliminating them now, we avoid that risk."

"Hm, sounds logical," Geno pondered. "...we'll plan on it if you will."

Kooper was all for it. "Deal!"

Choco Collection Camps

"Hey Speedo! Got the clue!"

Toadsworth and Toad: Currently in Sixth, 9:47pm

"Well let's get on that train then!"

Toadsworth was visible, luckily not in the speedo. "When we arrived at the Rock Search, we knew that the clue had to be found before ten. If Toad and I could do that, we knew we'd be ahead of the second flight teams for sure!"

The Toads could be seen getting on the train, the ticket manager laughing at the speedo.

Toadsworth and Toad: First on Choco Express 4, departing at 10pm

The train was then shown departing.

North-Choco Airport

10pm

The first flight is now departing. It contains Student and Mentor Scorch and Bobbery, Archeologists Kooper and Kolorado, BFFs Daisy and Rosalina, and Battle Buds Mallow and Geno. This flight makes a connection at Ankylosaurus Airport before arriving in Wakeport at 6am the next day.

Daisy seemed nervous. "Me and Scorch saw the Koopas talking to Mallow and Geno about the Yield. We fear they're gonna try to knock Luigi out of the race, because of the Professor's chocoholic second nature, so we agreed that if the Yield was available, we'd Yield whichever one of them was right behind us. On a side note, 'chocoholic' is probably the weirdest word I've ever said. I'll have to ask Luigi why he chose that word."

Choco Factory

Clay had on a blue jogging suit, Ace a red one.

"Clay, my hair feels frozen."

Ace and Clay: Starting in Seventh, 10:07pm, Day 2

Clay shook his head. "I told you it was cold out, yet you washed your hair right before we left."

"But it needed washed!" She whined.

"Well next time let me know. Maybe I could put a can or two of soda up there for later."

Ace rolled her eyes. "Not funny Clay. Let's go."

"Whatever you say Brain Freeze."

They then ran around the factory down the path.

Clay had a serious look on his face. "We are starting this leg over an hour behind the top six teams with four teams less than an hour behind US. We need to get ahead before that hurts us, and the Juniors being near doesn't help matters. As a result, we decided to take the first Fast Forward that appears. We need to get out of that danger zone before it kicks US out."

North-Choco Airport Stop

10:10pm

"Well, the airport's closed." Luigi pointed out rather obviously. "On to Caramel City then. See you at eleven folks."

Choco Factory

BJ was impatiently tapping his foot, waiting for the start with JT alongside the Massifs. He was wearing just an orange t-shirt while JT had a yellow winter jacket since he still hated the cold. The outfits for the Massifs were identical to the first leg's. The Massifs had waited for their teammates, so they wasted their 15 minute boost in doing so.

Big and Lil Massif: Starting in Eighth, 10:15pm, Day 2

BJ and JT: Starting in Ninth, 10:15pm, Day 2

The Juniors left quickly, the Massifs following at a slightly slower pace.

BJ was shown checking his watch. "Last leg one of the physical threats got the boot without any interference from us. Just sheer stupidity. Starting now though, me and JT will have to start pulling some strings. We already have the perfect setup with our fake alliance. This leg, we'll keep the Massifs around since we feel they'll do well anyway. Mallow and Geno we'll leave alone for the moment, because this leg we want Toadette and Birdo out. Why? Because if they start getting along with the other two Toads in the race, then there will be problems. This leg, we'll get them, then whoever catches our eye. I'm feeling like the Koopas will fall the third leg personally."

Choco Collection Camps

"Crap! The Traffic Report doesn't look good Ace."

Ace and Clay: Currently in Seventh, 10:28pm

Ace sighed, "Only two clues left, and 600 carts to search. This is gonna suck."

Clay pointed to a large pile of rubble consisting of perhaps twenty carts. "At least Choco Elvin made our job a little easier."

"Yeah," Ace agreed reluctantly, "but another team's here, and a third will arrive shortly."

BJ and JT: Currently in Eighth, 10:32pm

JT face palmed. BJ just shook his head, "Let's start searching."

Big and Lil Massif: Currently in Ninth, 10:34pm

The brothers took a look at each other.

"Big Massif?"

"Yes Lil Massif?"

"This is sucking."

"...very sucking."

They walked into the mine carts, passing a pair of yellow envelopes that didn't contain clues.

On them were two words.

Express Pass.

North-Choco Airport Stop

10:40pm

Toad sighed, "Hopefully someone else missed the 9 train. I'd hate for us to be the first ones to waste that extra hour from here to Caramel City. On the bright side, we have plenty of room since no one wants to sit near Speedo."

White Chocolate Wharf Stop

10:50pm

"Excuse me sir, but could you let me borrow your smartphone for just a sec?"

Luigi was trying to get someone to help him find a flight to Wakeport, right now talking to a Toad who actually recognized him.

"Sure! It'd be an honor!"

The Toad also was a fan.

"Heh, thanks...okay, here you go. By the way, when you tell your friends, they'll be more impressed if you show them this episode and say 'Mario's brother' instead of Luigi. No one remembers MY name, well except you I guess." Looking at the Toad, he asked, "so what's your name?"

"Kato. Kato Yoshida's the name. On vacation from the Chai Kingdom."

"Ah, well I'm Luigi Agnelli."

Kato looked confused. "Isn't your last name Alfero?"

Luigi had gone through this before it seemed. "No, Mario changed his last name to that because it fit him better. The name Agnelli fits me though."

"Oh, I guess that makes sense. But why would he not like the name he was born with?"

Luigi sighed. "Agnelli means 'lamb' and suggests a person is shy or timid. Mario didn't like that, so he switched to Alfero, which has two possible meanings. Traveling noble, or to lead. Either way, it sounded better to him."

Kato shrugged, "in my opinion, he sounds overconfident. I like Agnelli better."

Luigi chuckled at that, "well, there's a first. Someone taking my side over my brother's."

"Well it shouldn't be. You're a great guy."

"Right back at ya Kato."

The young Toad looked around the train. "So if this is a team race, where's your partner?"

"He was on a sugar high from the chocolate, so I locked him in the bathroom behind you," Luigi pointed behind Kato, "until we get off the train."

"Oh. So where are you headin' next?"

"Wakeport, I used your phone actually to check the flights there. I'll leave at midnight, then arrive at 8:40am after a connection in Cheddar City."

"Isn't that part of Dinosaur Land?"

Luigi shook his head. "They used to be, but there was a revolt ten years ago. Cheese Land became a republic with Cheddar City as the capital."

"Oh, got it...this is my stop."

"Hm, the Twix Cities. Gonna watch a game of baseball?"

"Yeah! The Minisoda Twix are playing the Chaicago Tight Sox! Go Chaicago!"

"Heh, well have fun Kato."

"...you too!"

With that, Kato got off, Luigi waving to him.

"*sigh*, it's nice to meet a fan of me for once."

"It's times like these that give me hope," Luigi said contently, "in my darkest hours. Knowing that there are people who see me as a hero, instead of the second or substitute Mario brother, that gives me hope. I'm gonna win this for you guys!"

Choco Collection Camps

"Hey! I found it!"

Ace and Clay: Currently in Seventh, 10:57pm

"Really? Great job Clay! Let's hurry on the train!"

"When Clay found the clue, I was just so relieved. Not only were we guaranteed to arrive in Wakeport in the Top Eight, we were ahead of the Juniors, the only team with any reason to Yield us! Now we can go on the attack and start trying to win a leg!"

They were then seen boarding the train.

Ace and Clay: First on Choco Express 6, departing at 11pm

Ace was shown hugging Clay. "Thanks Clay!"

He shrugged awkwardly. "It was nothing, really."

"Hey, don't downplay what you did there. You do that too much Clay."

Clay just shook his head. "But it's true. After all, you're the Ace of this team."

"Aww, you're so romantic!"

They could be seen having their first kiss as the train departed. There may not have been fireworks, but none were needed to make the moment work.

Ace looked somewhat hesitant. "Clay can be so sweet sometimes! The problem is, he can also be self-depreciating, which is more often than I'd like. He needs to realize that he is the driving force of the team, and the reason we're here to begin with. I just hope he'll figure it out soon."

Choco Factory

"Hey Stuffwell, do you think we can stay ahead of the Gals?" Starlow asked. She was shown in a blue blouse and light blue shorts, while her partner had a Sealattle Marios hat on in the team colors, red and blue.

Starlow and Stuffwell: Starting in Tenth, 11:00pm, Day 2

"Probably, we'll at least stay ahead of them. It's highly likely we'll pass at least one more team though, with the Yield. BACK TO ADVENTURE!"

Starlow rolled her eyes, "ugh..."

Starlow got right to work. "We shouldn't be here, we just shouldn't have survived last leg. We're like cockroaches so far. The race crushed our hopes and chances, but we found a way to keep surviving. Even so, the only reason we made it past the first leg was Stuffwell's take-charge approach. For that reason, maybe I could be nicer about his...habits."

Choco Collection Camps

"What is this? Hm, two of them. Better keep for later..."

"Hey Big Bro," Lil interrupted, "you find clue yet?"

"Oh, not yet. Just weird shiny rocks. I show you later."

Just then, the pair of orbs glowed a bit brighter.

Caramel City Airport

11:10pm

"HI-HO, NOW LET'S A GO!"

"YOSHIYOSHI!"

Guess who had just arrived in Caramel City?

Luigi and Elvin: Currently in Fifth, 11:12pm

Sadly for everyone, caramel had the same effect on the professor as chocolate.

"Hello sir, I have two tickets to Wakeport reserved under Agnelli."

The Hoohoo at the counter was staring at the other man, but still managed to give Luigi his tickets.

Luigi and Elvin: First on Choco Carrier 152 to Cheddar City

Luigi and Elvin: First on United AirKraft 79 to Wakeport, arriving at 8:40am, Day 3

"There you go, now please tell your Grandpa to stop eating the counter."

Luigi sweatdropped, face palmed, and dragged the professor away all at the same time. It was a unique skill. Be glad you don't have it.

Choco Collection Camps

BJ looked around for the twelfth time this minute, and had an urge to swear. "Another team's here!"

Starlow and Stuffwell: Currently in Tenth, 11:19pm

"Aw man! Wait, Starlow and Stuffwell overcame a four hour penalty?"

BJ just shrugged. "Yeah JT, I remembered hearing something about a risky flight. The Kongs got the boot last leg. Didn't ya hear? It was the only leg where the teams could interact man!"

JT was ready to go. "That team is a bigger threat than we'd thought, because they can take a flight like that. If you are willing to take that risk, then you just became a contender. We don't want those here."

BJ then peeked behind another cart and picked up a pair of envelopes.

"Hm, not our clue. Express Pass? Let me read the note attached..."

This is the first of two Express Pass pairs teams may find in the race. The team that finds the pair may use it anytime before the end of the ninth leg. They must give the other Express Pass to another team before the end of the fifth leg, which can be used until the end of the ninth leg as well. This can be used to skip any Detour, Roadblock, or Route Info task. It may also be used to void a Yield, Carpool, or U-Turn, or to negate up to an hour of penalty time. In the case of voiding a Carpool, the other team affected will receive a Yield starting that moment if they're waiting, or when they arrive if not.

"...this sounds pretty nice. The alliance could definitely benefit from this."

"Hey BJ! Focus! We need to get that last clue!"

Choco Factory

Birdo was shown in a pink sweater and blue jeans while Toadette had a yellow blouse/skirt combo.

"Hey Toadette, it's time to start!"

Toadette and Birdo: Starting in Last, 11:23pm, Day 2

"...let's hurry!"

And now for Wario's opinions on the first leg and the teams in it.

On Scorch and Bobbery's win-"Those two didn't dominate last leg, but when challenges came, like the second Detour, that they can pull ahead on, they can SEIZE that opportunity. If they have a bad leg though, expect others to try to finish them off."

On Mallow and Geno's flight boost-"They didn't need it, but it proved they can make a move to avoid elimination if needed. Without it though, they might've finished ninth or tenth."

On Geno's attitude-"I have no idea, but Mallow's opinion seems trustworthy on the subject."

On Starlow and Stuffwell's flight boost-"Okay, those two needed that flight. That was THE move of the leg, maybe even of the first THREE legs. I applaud you on that save Stuffwell, because I honestly thought you were getting the boot that leg."

On Funky and Diddy's elimination-"They pulled a dumb move on the Detour and got out as a result of that and passing the pitstop in their haste. They shouldn't have gotten out in my opinion, not yet at least."

On the upcoming leg-"The Yield will knock one of the Top Six back into the fray, while the alliances continue their shifting. I have my suspicions on who will get the boot, but sadly it won't be who SHOULD get out."

On the orb Funky found-"That will reveal itself this leg. All I can say is it will change the way the race is run."

On other changes to the race structure-"Yes, there will be more changes on the way. I GUARANTEE it."

On whether the biggest changes have arrived yet-"Two words: Leg Four. That's all I can say. Enjoy the suspense."

Choco Collection Camps

Three teams searching, a fourth to arrive any moment, but only one clue left. Who got the clue?

"What the-YES! Starlow, I found it!"

Starlow and Stuffwell: Currently in Eighth, 11:27pm

They do.

BJ had to resist an urge to swear, while JT settled for a face palm. The Massifs didn't show any emotion at this.

JT looked TICKED, while BJ didn't. JT spoke first. "Those lucky *****, first with the double leg after penalty, then with this search task! They're here for what? Ten minutes? Then they find the stinkin' clue and leave us with the bill! Or the penalty in this case..."

BJ scoffed, "you know that won't last JT. Besides, I can tell an equalizer's coming soon, so it won't matter."

JT just shook his head. "You know that's not the point man. The point is that it's annoying when someone else gets a string of lucky breaks when you think you're safe. You can't argue with that BJ."

"Hmm, true. But their luck has to run out sometime JT, and when it does, we'll get a break that leg. It's just delaying the inevitable."

Starlow and Stuffwell could be seen boarding the train.

Starlow and Stuffwell: First on Choco Express 7, departing at 11:30pm

The train took off, while Starlow was sticking Stuffwell in the overhead compartment.

Choco Collection Camp Office

The Massif Bros-56 minutes left

BJ and JT-55 minutes left

Big took up his thinking pose again, with one idea appearing on what to say.

"This sucks."

North-Choco Airport Stop

11:40pm

"Well Clay, I bought a cheap phone the race rules allow with the money from the Kongs."

Clay looked confused. "Um, cool but why exactly?"

Ace sighed. "To reserve tickets of course! This flight leaves at 1:30am, stops at Ankylosaurus Airport, then arrives in Wakeport at 8:35am!"

"Smart idea Ace. Their donation won't be wasted on us!"

Caramel City Airport

Toadsworth and Toad: Currently in Sixth, 11:42pm

The two Toads strode in, the younger one in a trench coat until security made him take it off. A guy's gotta have SOME pride after all, not that Toadsworth cared. The Koopa at the counter didn't mind though, it HAD been a boring day so far.

"Sure-PFFFT-sir, here's your-*snicker*-tickets."

Toadsworth and Toad: Second on Choco Carrier 152 to Cheddar City

Toadsworth and Toad: Second on United AirKraft 79 to Wakeport, arriving at 8:40am, Day 3

If the flight wasn't departing in about twenty minutes, Toad would've faked a bathroom break. Or six.

Choco Collection Camp

"What?! We didn't do anything, yet we already get a one-hour penalty Bird!"

Toadette and Birdo: Currently in Last, 11:47pm

"*sigh*, let's just head up and start the penalty."

Choco Collection Camp Office

BJ was the first to notice the girls' arrival. "Hey girls, welcome to the Anti-Alliance room! Everyone in our group except Mallow and Geno is waiting here, so take a seat and share a story!"

Big then handed Toadette a six-pack of Chuckola Cola. "Beefcakes bring drinks to pass the clock!"

Toadette took a sip. "Wow, thanks guys. This alliance tastes great! If only our performance tasted this good."

JT nodded his head in agreement. "So true Toadette. We really need to step up our game, so here's an idea. Let's split up on every Detour so at least one team in the alliance gains time. At least one team will take a risky flight so the alliance survives either way. Finally, if the Fast Forward is still available, one team will go for it. It's risky, but we can't survive like this."

Birdo took a second to think about the proposition.

BJ threw in his opinion. "If you agree, we'll let you take the first Fast Forward."

"...sure, we'll do it if you will. Right Toadette?"

"Of course!"

JT raised his can to toast. "Then it's settled! To the race!"

They toasted, then enjoyed their cold beverage, Toadette and Birdo unaware that they had just fallen into a trap set by the Juniors.

The Massif Bros-36 minutes left

BJ and JT-37 minutes left

Toadette and Birdo-57 minutes left

Big shook his head. "Is sad that breaking of teams is started so soon. The bad part is, that beefcakes have no control yet. If say no, just done with Mallow to girls or maybe done to US. When others leave team to just beefcakes and side salad turtles, then fight starts. So why is plan bad? Side salads know tennis people plan on shortcut use, so when girls say yes, they lose time already. Beefcake feels that not end of tricks though..."

12am, Day 3

The second flight is now departing. It contains Ghostbusters Luigi and Elvin and Fungi Friends Toadsworth and Toad. This flight makes a connection in Cheddar City before arriving in Wakeport at 8:40am.

North-Choco Airport Stop

12:10am

Starlow exchanged a laugh with Stuffwell, who was looking down from the compartment.

"Man Stuff! Between the flight miracle and the rock search, you're the MVR!"

Stuffwell looked confused. "I know I'm not an expert on text talk, so what is a MVR?"

"Most Valuable Racer, duh!"

"No way, just a bunch of dumb luck is all Star, nothin' special."

Starlow shook her head quickly. "No way! I bet you'll do this the whole race Stuff."

"Whatever Chippy."

Starlow looked up. "Stuff..."

"Wasn't me."

Starlow raised an eyebrow. "So your creator made other talking suitcases I assume? One of which so happens to be on this train with us?"

"Yep! His name's Stuffpoor...he's a prototype."

Starlow let out a laugh, and Stuffwell joined in.

Choco Collection Camp Office

The boss laughed heartily. "Well Juniors and Massifs, your time is up! Here's your clues!"

The Massif Bros: Currently in Ninth, 12:27am

BJ and JT: Currently in Tenth, 12:28am

The Bob-omb then sent them off, shouting, "If you want to hear another story, you know where to find me!"

The foursome shuddered intensely at that, and RAN like crazy.

JT cringed. "The boss came in halfway through our wait, and told us story after story AFTER STORY. I mean, HOW MANY WIVES CAN ONE MAN HAVE?! I felt BAD leaving the girls behind there, and I barely know them!"

Choco Collection Camps

The Juniors and Massifs rushed onto the train, barely making it on.

The Massif Bros: First on Choco Express 9, departing at 12:30am

BJ and JT: Second on Choco Express 9, departing at 12:30am

The train left immediately after.

Caramel City Airport

Ace and Clay: Currently in Seventh, 12:43am

Ace walked up to the counter and waited for service. "Two reserved under Hartell sir."

Ace and Clay: First on Shell Skies 708 to Ankylosaurus Airport

Ace and Clay: First on Ankylosaurus Airlines 21 to Wakeport, arriving at 8:35am

"No problem ma'am, but isn't the guy typically supposed to reserve the tickets for a honeymoon?"

Ace gave a flat stare. "I'm THIRTEEN sir, so just whatever is taking up space in that head of yours, it sure ain't a brain! Ugh, men..."

She then turned and walked away. Clay just shrugged

"She's the only one with a phone," he explained, then left to catch up with Ace.

"Ace has never been one to keep her opinions to herself," Clay stated, "and hopefully that doesn't turn anyone against us."

Choco Collection Camp Office

Birdo and Toadette could be seen fleeing.

Toadette and Birdo: Currently in Last, 12:49am

You really couldn't blame them.

Choco Collection Camps

They were then shown boarding the last train a team would get on.

Toadette and Birdo: First on Choco Express 10, departing at 1am

The train left, Birdo complaining about its likeness to a subway car in quality. Toadette sighed and ignored her. This would be a long ride.

North-Choco Airport Stop

1:10am

BJ looked out from the train. "Hey Massifs, I have an idea!"

The two men walked to him slowly as they had an hour left on the train.

"Alright guys, here's the plan for the leg. I found a pair of Express Passes," BJ said, holding them up as proof, "and while the gals head for a Fast Forward already taken, we'll skip the challenge together to leave them in the dust! I'll also do a little extra if possible, but are you in?"

Big had a blank face. "...of course side salad. What else would beefcakes do?"

Caramel City Airport

"Back off missy! THAT'S NOT YOUR SUITCASE!"

Starlow and Stuffwell: Currently in Eighth, 1:13am

Like Luigi and Choco Elvin, you could tell which team had just arrived. After the dispute was settled with the irate Lakitu, the two booked their flight.

Starlow and Stuffwell: Second on Shell Skies 708 to Ankylosaurus Airport

Starlow and Stuffwell: Second on Ankylosaurus Airlines 21 to Wakeport, arriving at 8:35am

They then ran into the routine scrimmage with airport security about how Stuffwell was not to go in the cargo hold.

1:30am, Day 3

The third flight is now departing, with New Couple Ace and Clay on board along with Stuck in Storage Starlow and Stuffwell. This flight makes a brief connection at Ankylosaurus Airport before arriving in Wakeport at 8:30am.

North-Choco Airport Stop

1:40am

Birdo was paying attention to the movie the train conductor put on, "Tangled". Something from the real world, she figured. It seemed pretty boring though, since the Princess was an expy of Peach, with that frying pan. The horse was pretty funny though.

Ankylosaurus Airport

1:50am

The first four teams have just arrived. Most of them are still extremely tired. Since the flight arriving in Wakeport leaves in fifty minutes, Daisy and Rosalina went with Scorch and Bobbery to talk over a snack, obviously Scorch's idea. Meanwhile, the Koopas decided to discuss plans with Mallow and Geno at the flight gate.

Scorch and Bobbery/Daisy and Rosalina-Student and Mentor/BFFs

Daisy and Rosalina were drinking a pair of Sprix Zeroes, Bobbery was nibbling on a small salad, and Scorch had hit the jackpot upon finding a buffet. Daisy decided to start off.

"Scorch, if you would stop stuffing your face, I'd like to talk strategy please!"

Scorch seemed to scoff at this, or would have if his face wasn't stuffed with pasta. After swallowing, he retaliated, "hey, those plane rides are torture! Several hours with nothing to eat but those weird graham crackers!"

Rosalina rolled her eyes. "ANYWAYS, we need to discuss our plans for the upcoming leg!"

Scorch groaned loudly, either that or burped. They both sound similar. "Girls, there are still eleven teams in the race! At least ONE of them will mess up, so all we have to do is make sure it's not us."

Bobbery nodded. "The boy makes a good point. In a race like this, teams tend to eliminate themselves at the beginning without any interference from others. Making moves this early will only create enemies."

The girls sighed, but couldn't find a counter to Bobbery's statement.

Mallow and Geno/Kooper and Kolorado-Battle Buddies/Archeologists

Mallow was sitting next to Geno, Mallow drinking a water bottle, while the Koopas sat across from them, Kooper reading the Dinosaur Delivery. Kolorado seemed to be getting impatient.

"Can we start talking please? It'll be harder to plan when the alliance arrives."

Geno nodded. "Alright, here's the plan. We Yield the Ghostbusters if we can, then utilize any advantage we can over the alliance EXCEPT the Fast Forward. Save that for later if we can."

Kooper shrugged. "So why do we have to talk it out? We already knew this."

"For EXPOSITION!"

Kolorado looked confused. "For what Mallow?"

The tadpole sheepishly shook his head. "Oh, nothing..."

Meanwhile, a worker awkwardly emerged from the wreckage of the wall that had been behind him. He had no idea why it was always this one that crumbled. If he had known it was the fourth one built in the airport, this would have made a lot more sense.

Caramel City Airport

BJ and JT: Currently in Ninth, 2:11am

Big and Lil Massif: Currently in Tenth, 2:11am

The Juniors and Massifs bought tickets for the fourth flight, BJ grumbling something about side salads, pea brains, and kettles being black. Sadly, this flight left them about three hours behind, the arrival time estimated at 11:30am. At least the gals could make it too, since it left at 3am.

BJ and JT: First on Asiago Airlines 507 to Cheddar City Airport

BJ and JT: First on Snoozer Skies 48 to Wakeport, arriving at 11:30am

Big and Lil Massif: Second on Asiago Airlines 507 to Cheddar City Airport

Big and Lil Massif: Second on Snoozer Skies 48 to Wakeport, arriving at 11:30am

BJ wasn't prone to outbursts, but the Massifs found a way to irritate him. Luckily for them, payback in the Amazing Race was not physical.

Ankylosaurus Airport

2:40am

The first connection is now departing. It contains Student and Mentor Scorch and Bobbery, BFFs Daisy and Rosalina, Archeologists Kooper and Kolorado, and Battle Buddies Mallow and Geno. This flight arrives in Wakeport at 6am.

Scorch had a smirk on his face, seeming triumphant. "I checked that first clue of the leg and saw we broke a rule. I know this will hurt us, but I can't wait to say I told him so for not showing me the clue."

Caramel City Airport

Toadette and Birdo: Currently in Last, 2:42am

The girls ran up to the counter...well at least Toadette did. This annoyed the shorter of the pair. "Come on Birdo, hurry up!"

Birdo just shook her head. "For what? To wait an hour before getting on a plane? Save the running for after we land girl."

Toadette and Birdo: Last on Asiago Airlines 507 to Cheddar City Airport

Toadette and Birdo: Last on Snoozer Skies 48 to Wakeport, arriving at 11:30am

Toadette looked overconfident. "So we had to wait an hour before boarding, right Birdo? More like fifteen minutes before the flight takes off!"

"Shut up Toadette!"

3am

The fourth and final flight is now departing. This flight contains Junior Jokers BJ and JT, Tour Guides Big and Lil Massif, and Gal Pals Toadette and Birdo. This flight makes a connection in Cheddar City before arriving in Wakeport at 11:30am.

Cheddar City Airport

3:15am

The two teams split to discuss strategy, the Toads at the cafe and the Ghostbusters at the terminal gate, a smart idea since the flight leaves at 3:40am for Wakeport.

Toad and Toadsworth-Fungus Friends

Luckily for everyone watching at home, some poor, dumb mouse had stolen Toadsworth's speedo mistaking it for cheese. How? No one knows, but because of that, Toadsworth had changed into a brown leather jacket and tan pants. He understandably was annoyed about the situation. "Who in the world would think a Toad would wear a piece of cheese around their waist?"

"Who in the world would think a Toad would wear a yellow speedo?" Toad retaliated.

"So what?!" Toadsworth replied. "You wouldn't steal either one, would you?"

"Ew, gross man! I see your point, thanks for the second round of nightmares by the way."

"Second?" Toadsworth questioned.

"The first round was just seeing you in the speedo."

Luigi and Elvin-Ghostbusters

Luigi was busy filling the professor in on what had happened on the mountain. Luckily cheese had no effect on Elvin.

"So Luigi, what happened last leg?"

Luigi gulped. "Well, you ate a chocolate taxi, caused the Koopas and Toads to leave the alliance, and Scorch and Bobbery sided with us and the girls. We finished the leg fourth."

Elvin thought this over. "...alright, the Toads aren't really a threat, but the Koopas are a strong team. Scorch and Bobbery are promising teammates though. So what about this leg?"

Luigi took heed of Elvin's words. "We had a search task, got on a train, and boarded a flight here. We'll arrive in Wakeport around 8:40am, almost 3 hours out of first. There's also a Yield to worry about. We're currently tied with the Toads for fifth."

"Hmph, not bad to start the race. That Yield is troublesome though. At least the Koopas will want to Yield us, probably others though."

"So Elvin, any chance the Yield will remain unused when we reach it?"

The professor sighed. "I'm afraid the chance is next to none. Our only chance would be an equalizer sometime before the Yield so we could catch up. What we want is for the girls or Scorch and Bobbery to use the Yield so we're safe."

"Hm, good point."

3:40am

The second connection is now departing, carrying Ghostbusters Luigi and Elvin and Fungus Friends Toadsworth and Toad. This flight arrives in Wakeport at 8:40am.

Snoozer Skies 178

3:47am

The flight attendant pulled down the microphone to make an announcement. "Attention all passengers, due to a fuel leak, we will land in Yoshi's Island to make repairs. We have arranged a flight to leave for Wakeport arriving at 8:15am. We are sorry for the inconvenience."

Mallow and Geno, this being their first flight problem, were merely annoyed. The other three teams were past that, considering this was their second bad connection in a row. We would have shown an interview, but this is a family program.

Ankylosaurus Airport

3:50am

Ace and Clay decided to talk strategy with Starlow and Stuffwell over a smoothie. Starlow seemed curious at this sudden interest. "So Ace, Clay, why do you now want a team-up?"

Clay elaborated on it. "It's simple really. Everyone else is teamed up with at least one other team except for us. Why not fix that? If we team up, we could work with anyone left out of a group as teams split and eliminate."

Stuffwell thought this over. "Heh, sounds good to me. We'll agree to it. The alliance will split immediately on one of two conditions though. One, both teams end up in the bottom two starting a leg. Two, we make it to the final five teams. Sound like good terms Clay?"

"Count me in!"

4:20am

The third connection is now departing, containing New Couple Ace and Clay and Stuck in Storage Starlow and Stuffwell. This flight arrives in Wakeport at 8:35am

Ace was ready with predictions on the leg, maybe one of her nervous habits. "This leg, besides us with the Fast Forward mentality, there are three things to note. One, the Yield. I'm predicting it will be used on either the Ghostbusters or the Juniors. No one else will be a real reason to use it. Two, the weird items popping up everywhere you look, like our orb from the Kongs. Their purpose and location are intriguing things to follow. Look for them to appear frequently during search tasks. Three, the alliances, in both who hates who and which ones shift loyalties. Remember this."

Yoshi's Island

6:25am

Scorch and Bobbery-Student and Mentor

Scorch was pacing back and forth by the gate, Bobbery in a nearby seat. The old explosive would have bought his partner something to eat if the cost wasn't in the thousands. Seriously, sometimes he had his doubts of a Yoshi for his partner, but then he remembered situations like the last Detour and the benefits of Scorch's speed. "Calm down Scorch, we'll still arrive before any other flight."

"So two hours lost from dumb mechanics doesn't bother you AT ALL? And for the second time?"

Bobbery shook his...body to indicate the negative. "I'm not saying that, but we shouldn't worry over problems we didn't cause."

Scorch gave a disapproving glance his partner's way. "What about ones entirely YOUR fault? Like the fact that we took a taxi at the start when the clue said to walk! Next time, let me read the clue man."

Bobbery had no response to that.

6:40am

The second connection is now departing. This flight contains Student and Mentor Scorch and Bobbery, BFFs Daisy and Rosalina, Archeologists Kooper and Kolorado, and Battle Buddies Mallow and Geno. This flight arrives in Wakeport at 8:10am.

Cheddar City Airport

7:50am

BJ and JT-Junior Jokers

BJ had just gotten out of line with his order, and headed to the table where his teammate was waiting, rather impatiently at that. "Alright JT, a strawberry banana smoothie for you, and the vanilla milkshake for myself. Good thing these Coconut Cafés tend to appear in airports."

JT couldn't argue there. "Yeah, they do have a good selection. But only you'd get a milkshake at a smoothie joint man."

"JT, you know I don't like fruit. Remember? Isle Delfino? Only weakness I share with King Boo."

"Yeah, I remember your horror stories about being defeated by a fat plumber with a water gun. REAL terrifying stuff you got there."

BJ just glared. "Thanks for being sensitive about the matter."

The hatchling shrugged. "No prob man. Anytime."

Wakeport Airport

The first flight has now arrived, carrying four teams.

Kooper and Kolorado were the first out of the airport using their Dual Ricochet technique, with Scorch and Bobbery close behind. Daisy and Rosalina were a ways back, with Mallow and Geno bringing up the rear. The town had no taxis, so the teams had to find the Tour Office themselves.

Kooper and Kolorado-Archeologists

Kolorado was on top of the ricocheting Kooper searching for directions. Behind them Scorch could be seen slowly gaining ground on them, Bobbery riding the black and red Yoshi full speed.

Daisy and Rosalina-BFFs

Daisy was jumping from rooftop to rooftop, using the skills Luigi had taught her. Rosalina was following suit, her skills acquired through experience with Mario's adventures. Daisy could see the Koopas and her allies in the distance, but they were veering off a different direction. She knew Mallow and Geno were close behind on the ground, but she knew they could be shaken off. One thing was clear though: Scorch couldn't overtake the Koopas with pure speed, so she and Rosalina were Luigi's best chance at not being Yielded.

Wakeport Tour Office

One team had arrived, another team close behind tried to pass but failed to hit the Yield mat first.

Kooper and Kolorado: Currently in First, 8:27am

Scorch and Bobbery: Currently in Second, 8:27am

Kooper high-fived his partner before Yielding Luigi and Elvin, their reward for arriving first. He took note that the Yield would be served after the tour ended. Scorch sighed and berated himself for putting his alliance members in danger, then looked at the sign by the entrance.

Operation Hours

Monday-Thursday:8am-11pm

Friday-Saturday:8am-9pm

Sunday:Noon-5pm

Pull a ticket for your desired tour to reserve your placement. Maximum 12 people per tour.

Sadly for everyone in front, this was Sunday. The Koopas pulled tickets one and two, while three and four went to Scorch and Bobbery. A third team came around the building.

Daisy and Rosalina: Currently in Third, 10:34am

Daisy face palmed, pulled tickets five and six, then sat down to wait, worrying for her alliance member and boyfriend. Rosalina was just glad they could shake off Mallow and Geno. Maybe they'd miss the first tour.

Wakeport Airport

The second and third flights have now arrived, each carrying two teams.

Ace and Clay were the first out, their flight landing roughly a minute before the other. Luigi and Elvin followed about five seconds back, before Starlow and Stuffwell, who had been slowed by the usual living suitcase problem. Toadsworth and Toad were the last out, about 90 seconds behind everyone.

Wakeport Tour Office

Mallow and Geno: Currently in Fourth, 10:41am

Geno gave a high-five to Kooper before grabbing tickets seven and eight. He then took note of a couple passing by, obviously tourists. He approached them cautiously, a plan in his head. "Hello there, welcome to Wakeport."

He then struck up a casual conversation with the pair, noting their curiosity in the area, and offered them money for the local tour, which they graciously accepted, taking the ninth and tenth tickets. It was a win-win situation. The couple got a free tour, and Geno cost one team sixty minutes. So which team would grab the last two spots? Let's find out, shall we?

Cheddar City Airport

8:45am

The fourth and final connection is now departing. It contains Junior Jokers BJ and JT, Tour Guides Big and Lil Massif, and Gal Pals Birdo and Toadette. This flight will arrive in Wakeport at 11:30am.

Wakeport Tour Office

One team could be seen hurrying from the horizon, which team it was being unclear. Whoever it was, this team would be getting on the first tour and no one else. The girls were hoping it was Luigi and Elvin, and so were Scorch and Bobbery. The Koopas hoped it was the Toads, while Mallow and Geno didn't really care. The team finally came into focus, to mixed reactions.

Ace and Clay: Currently in Fifth, 8:51am

Clay was relieved that they had gotten on the first tour with the eleventh and twelfth tickets while Ace was trying to puzzle out the point of putting the Yield where they did. "I mean seriously, why put it somewhere when you'd have to put special directions on the Yield? It's stupid! Right Clay?"

Clay seemed distracted at the moment. "Huh? Oh, right, sure."

Clay seemed thoughtful about the situation. "I'm not really sure what to make of the whole situation. On one hand, I'm glad we made the first tour when there was so little space, but I'm getting worried about how much trickery is happening around us. Between the Juniors and Mallow and Geno, there's barely any room for fair play."

The next team came into view, obviously annoyed at their bad luck.

Luigi and Elvin: Currently in Sixth, 8:54am

Luigi face palmed. "I should have known we'd get Yielded for last leg's performance, but getting on the second tour is just annoying."

Elvin just shook his head his disbelief. "Sorry Luigi, this is my fault. If Choco Elvin hadn't appeared, none of this would have happened."

Luigi was having none of it. "No it's not man, the Yield maybe would have been different, but we would have missed the first tour regardless. Let's find you that bathroom while we're waiting though."

While they left for the restroom, another team came in.

Toadsworth and Toad: Currently in Seventh, 8:56am

They weren't exactly surprised to be on the second tour, but the Toads were somewhat annoyed at the fact that they were only five minutes too late. The only team missing was Starlow and Stuffwell.

Wakeport Harbor

Luigi and Elvin-Ghostbusters

The pair had gone exploring, Luigi giving Elvin his own personal tour. Luigi took note of the race clues hidden in some nearby hedges to grab during the official tour, before heading into a local shop and grabbing three maps along with three bars of chocolate. He hid the chocolate in a secret compartment of his hat before heading out. He also bought a pair of antiques he knew would come in handy. They were glowing, sky-blue orbs. He was one of two racers that knew what they were, and what they did.

"So Luigi, anything interesting inside?"

Luigi just shrugged. "Not really, but I DID get maps of the town for us and our alliance members. I marked the clues in the hedges on them, and the clue box near the docks in that store I just left."

"Nice. By the way, I saw Starlow and Stuffwell enter the store next door. They didn't see me. Should we tell them where the Tour Office is?"

"I'll tell them."

Luigi headed inside.

Starlow and Stuffwell-Stuck in Storage

Starlow was honestly stumped. She thought the place would be engraved in her head after her second adventure, but she was flat-out lost right now. She absently noted Luigi entering the building. It figured that the two people to have visited the town were the ones with trouble finding the place. Why was the man approaching her though? "Whaddya want?"

Luigi wasn't deterred. "I saw you wandering and figured you needed some directions. Was I wrong?"

"Yes, yes you were. I don't need your help!"

The plumber just shrugged. "Alright, but a few things to know. Elvin and I got Yielded, so we'll lose an hour after the tour. The tours don't start until noon, but the first tour's full. Still sure you don't need directions?"

Starlow remained adamant. "Yes, I'm sure!"

"Oh, your loss then. At least take this orb as an apology of sorts, for however I may have wronged you." Luigi responded sheepishly, then left.

Starlow grumbled something to herself before looking around for directions she had just rejected. She did grab the orb though.

Starlow was ticked off. "The nerve of that plumber! First, he and his brother trap me in the body of a reptile, an ugly one at that! Then I have to do his every whim while the guy sleeps, being a complete sissy all the while. Then after all that, I lose my job because of them and Luigi expects me to just forget all that?! That jerk! Sometimes, I just wanna-" We'll cutoff there, for the children.

Luigi and Elvin-Ghostbusters

Luigi left the store, and seemed confused about what had happened. "I have no idea what Starlow has against me. Maybe I said something in my sleep once...nah, she would have yelled at me after I woke up. So what is it? I hope we can still be friends..."

Wakeport Tour Office

Two figures came in, one ticked off, one relieved.

Starlow and Stuffwell: Currently in Eighth, 9:36am

Starlow took note of the fact that she had pulled the twenty-first and twenty-second tickets, which meant that four more non-racers had reserved a spot, and that the last two teams to arrive would be stuck on the third tour, three if someone else reserved a spot. The possibility was very likely.

10:35am

Scorch and Bobbery/Daisy and Rosalina/Luigi and Elvin-Student and Mentor/BFFs/Ghostbusters

Luigi passed out the maps to the alliance members, pointing out clue locations and shortcuts to use from both the clues in the hedges and the office to the docks so that when the action began, the alliance would have an edge. All members high-fived, and headed back to the front to wait, absently noting a couple reserving the last tickets for the second tour...to a different location with no effect on the race whatsoever.

Wakeport Airport

11:30am

The fourth and final flight has now arrived, carrying three teams.

The Juniors headed out first, but in a different direction then the two teams that exited after them. Rather unusual, considering that the Massifs had the best knowledge of the area.

Wakeport Downtown

11:37am

BJ and JT-Junior Jokers

BJ walked out of a hardware store, two bags in hand. JT rather annoyed. "Took ya long enough, what did you even buy?"

"Just some materials for a trick once we start driving ourselves places."

JT looked curious. "Hm, tell me on the way."

"Sure thing JT."

Wakeport Tour Office

Mallow and Geno-Battle Buddies

"Hey man, I got a map of the island, Sprixie Land, and the Mushroom Kingdom." Mallow let Geno know.

"Hmph, smart move getting not just one for Wakeport." Geno looked around. "Two of our friends are here."

Toadette and Birdo: Currently in Ninth, 11:40am

Big and Lil Massif: Currently in Tenth, 11:41am

Luckily for Toadette and Birdo, they had gotten tickets 23 and 24 to make the second tour. The Massifs got 25 and 26, although their reactions indicated that they MAY have done it on purpose to keep them ahead of the Juniors.

BJ and JT: Currently in Last, 11:53am

They took the tickets and sighed.

Wakeport Tour Office

12:00am, Day 3

An elderly Hoohoo stepped out of the office, wearing a brown tank top and matching athletic shorts while sporting a white moustache. He seemed oddly familiar.

"FATHER!" Two cries sounded from the Massif Bros.

Everyone else seemed confused for a moment before noticing the resemblance, well except for Luigi, who knew just about everything in the town. After the brief reunion and promises to continue the rejoicing on the third tour, Papa Massif took the first tour and began.

Tour One: Kooper/Kolorado, Scorch/Bobbery, Daisy/Rosalina, Mallow/Geno, Ace/Clay-Tied for First

12:35pm

Wakeport Harbor

Papa Massif had almost finished the tour, and the racers were nervously waiting for the signal. "If side salads look to their right, they can see Wakeport Harbor. Very busy place, room for 150 cargo ships, was built four centuries ago under rule of Penguin species looking for ways to transport massive shipments of fish, and has been expanded and renovated several times under possession of the Pillo Kingdom since. Now for racers, the tour ends here. Find clue before next tour arrives near here, otherwise another will need to be taken, with first available starting at 3pm."

Naturally the five teams took off, heading to search the massive harbor. However, two of them turned around and went to the other side of the docks, picking up the clue from the hedges nearby.

Daisy and Rosalina: Currently in First, 12:37pm

Scorch and Bobbery: Currently in Second, 12:37pm

Rosalina opened the clue while heading in the direction Luigi had told her. "Head to the Wakeport Antique Shop near Dock Seventeen to find your next clue. Looks like Luigi knows his stuff Daisy."

Daisy facepalmed. "Like he would LIE to us Rosy?" Scorch and Bobbery led the way, the girls close behind.

Wakeport Tour Office

12:39pm

Luigi and Elvin-Ghostbusters

"So Luigi," Elvin queried," the tour agency...is a family business?"

"Yep! They've done this fifty-seven years, three generations." Luigi replied.

Elvin pondered this for a moment. "How do you know all this stuff? I mean, you know freaking everything about this town!"

"I always study the areas me and Mario explore while he's busy eating. You wouldn't believe how important terrain can be in a fight..."

Wakeport Harbor

A lone hand grabbed a clue.

Ace and Clay: Currently in Third, 12:41pm

Clay facepalmed. "You've gotta be kidding me Wario."

Ace shook her head. "Right behind us, hiding in plain sight."

Wakeport Antique Shop

The building was a small, but profitable establishment. It was known for housing art, old books, and the occasional magical artifact. Today however, it happened to also hold a clue box.

Scorch and Bobbery: Currently in First, 12:44pm

Daisy and Rosalina: Currently in Second, 12:45pm

Scorch ripped the clue open first. "Detour! Cargo Hold or Cargo Ship, which vehicle will you drive?"

A Detour is a choice between two options, each having pros and cons. In this detour, teams must balance speed and skill to navigate one of two vehicles. All teams will attempt this Detour on the same course, meaning they can affect the performance of other teams.

In Cargo Hold, teams will drive a forklift 10 laps through the Daisy Cruiser race course waiting at Pier Four, with all stairs and drops having ramps to accommodate the different transportation. The teams will have to switch the cargo their forklifts carry on 3 laps which they choose. If teams finish slower than 1 hour, 45 minutes, they will serve a twenty minute penalty before receiving their clue.

In Cargo Ship, teams will use a ship simulator at Pier Twelve to navigate a cargo ship through a preset course. Teams will have to navigate through currents and sand bars to reach their destination. If teams finish slower than 1 hour, 55 minutes, they will serve a twenty minute penalty before receiving their clue.

Bobbery knew which Detour to pick, but noticed a small note at the bottom near the Fast Forward. "Hm, a Time Steal?"

A Time Steal is an opportunity to earn a thirty minute time credit and a challenge to avoid a thirty minute penalty, both taking effect at the start of the subsequent leg. In each Detour, the team to finish the fastest will receive the time credit, while the slowest team will receive the penalty. This has no effect if a Detour only has one team, or if the fastest/slowest team is eliminated at the end of the leg.

Scorch shrugged. "Just a way for us to get ahead I suppose. Cargo Ship for the win!" Bobbery then got on Scorch and headed to Pier Twelve while Daisy and Rosalina headed for Pier Four.

Daisy looked annoyed. "I had no idea they were using MY ship for this race! I'm gonna have a word with the crew before we leave, because this is important info!"

Wakeport Harbor

The Koopas had finally figured the location out, Mallow and Geno right behind.

Kooper and Kolorado; Currently in Fourth, 12:56pm

Mallow and Geno: Currently in Fifth, 12:56pm

Kooper sweatdropped. "Are you ******* kidding me? Should've known Wario would do something like this, especially after finding that one clue in the library."

Wakeport Tour Office

1:00pm

Papa Massif called for the start of the second tour, which included Luigi and Elvin, Toadsworth and Toad, Starlow and Stuffwell, and Toadette and Birdo.

Wakeport Antique Shop

"Dang, this place is tiny!"

Ace and Clay: Currently in Third, 1:02pm

Ace slapped Clay for his rudeness before opening her clue and pulling out the Fast Forward.

A Fast Forward is a task that may only be completed by one team, and can be used only once by a team the entire race. When completed, a Fast Forward allows a team to head directly to the Pit Stop. In this Fast Forward, teams must head to P'illo Blimport and pass the test all professional fliers must take to earn their license. The first team to complete the Fast Forward can head straight to the Pit Stop and will also earn a license valid for eighteen months.

Clay rubbed his cheek. "Geez Ace, relax! Let's head to the Fast Forward."

Ace just shook her head. "Really Clay? Learn some manners."

They then took off.

Pier Twelve

Waiting at Pier Twelve was a line of eleven simulators waiting to be used. One of them is now ready for action.

Scorch and Bobbery: Currently in First, 1:03pm

Scorch got excited at the sight of the simulators. "Cool! But why simulators?"

"Because real boats could get expensive in an accident Scorch." Bobbery replied. "So how do the controls look?"

"A little more technological than your ship," Scorch analyzed, "but you should still do pretty well knowing the basics."

"Then let's get started!" Bobbery exclaimed.

A young Toad walked up to greet them. "Welcome to the Detour, I'm Lou E. and I'll be your guide on the simulator!"

Scorch shook Lou's hand. "Hi Lou, I'm Scorch and my partner here is Cap'n Bobbery-"

"ADMIRAL Bobbery, and I sail the seas for a living, so I don't think you'll need to worry about us at all."

Lou nodded. "Oh, I understand, but one thing to note is that all simulations take place in the same world, so if another team arrives, they'll be in the same virtual world as you. You can start at anytime now."

Wakeport Antique Shop

Kooper and Kolorado: Currently in Fourth, 1:05pm

Mallow and Geno: Currently in Fifth, 1:05pm

Kooper opened the clue, then pulled Kolorado away from the artifact section towards Pier Four. Mallow and Geno following close behind.

Pier Four

A large, orange cruiser was docked at the end of the pier, eleven forklifts waiting on it. This cruiser is famous for holding kart races at sea, but now will be known for a different reason.

Daisy and Rosalina: Currently in Second, 1:07pm

Daisy found the forklifts waiting at the starting line and greeted the ship captain, Cap T. "Hello Cap, funny seein' you here."

The Toad chuckled nervously. "Yeahhh, I know, right? I had no idea you were on the race!"

Daisy shook her head. "Well I am Cap, but how come I had no idea MY OWN SHIP WAS ON THE RACE?!"

"Do you want to argue?" Cap asked. "Or do you want to leave this for after the race and finish sooner?"

Daisy grumbled something under her breath and got on the forklift.

Cap then explained. "Alright Princess, the forklift moves slower than your usual transportation for racing on this ship, but the brake and gas pedals are in the same spot. There are two main differences to note. One is that you can't move fast and turn at the same time, slow, turn, then accelerate. Two is that you'll need to operate the levers on your right to switch your cargo. Lever 1 raises/lowers the mast, 2 moves it closer/farther, 3 moves the load left, and 4 moves it right. What you'll need to do is push lever 1, pull lever 2, pull lever 1, move to the next load, push lever 1, push lever 2, pull lever 1, then move out. Need me to repeat anything Princess?"

Daisy shook her head no, then took off slowly, Rosalina on top giving directions. The Captain then fainted as a result of how long that one ridiculously-detailed explanation was to say in one breath. It wouldn't be the last time.

Pier Twelve

1:10pm

Simulation Conditions:

Partly Cloudy

70°F/21°C

Wind 15mph/24kph North

Scorch and Bobbery: Past Checkpoint 1/10, -54 seconds(-=under, +=over)

"How's the weather Scorch?" Bobbery inquired.

Scorch shrugged. "Good for now, but it changes faster than in real life. We'll have to check it more often than normal."

Pier Four

A pair of Koopas ran onto the ship, followed by a tadpole and wooden puppet.

Kooper and Kolorado: Currently in Third, 1:16pm

Mallow and Geno: Currently in Fourth, 1:17pm

The Koopas got on and took off, using forklifts on a regular basis during expeditions to move large shipments of supplies between vehicles. Mallow and Geno waited for an explanation first, then took off, albeit more slowly than the Koopas.

Daisy and Rosalina: 1/10 Laps, 1/3 Cargo Switches

Kooper and Kolorado: Starting Now

Mallow and Geno: Starting Now

P'illo Blimport

Since Mario and Luigi's visit, the Blimport had been expanded to hold two more blimps, the Bumbleblimp and the P'ilot, in addition to the Zeeppelin, Conkstream, Snorigible, and Naptune IV. The Blimport is now the second largest in the world, only behind Glitzville. It also held a Fast Forward, which is about to be attempted.

Ace and Clay: Currently in Fifth, 1:23pm

An old block person walked over to greet the tennis twosome. "Hello racers, Ace and Clay, if my intuition is correct." A pair of nods. "As I thought, now for the challenges of the Fast Forward. I have been told not to instruct you on how to operate a blimp. Rather, you are to use these." He said, pointing to two books behind him. Ace read the cover of the first book, which had around two thousand pages.

"En nybegynders guide til blimp drift. What the **** are we supposed to do with this?!" Clay then looked at the book next to it, about five hundred pages long, before handing it to Ace. This cover read, 'English-Danish Dictionary', to which Ace had one response.

"Well ****."

Pier Four

1:30pm

Daisy and Rosalina: 2/10 Laps, 1/3 cargo switches

Kooper and Kolorado: 1/10 Laps, 1/3 cargo switches

Mallow and Geno: 1/10 Laps, 0/3 cargo switches

Pier Twelve

1:30pm

Scorch and Bobbery: Past Checkpoint 3/10, -1 minute, 34 seconds

Wakeport Harbor

1:35pm

Once again, Papa Massif warned them of the time limits, before letting the racers go. Luigi and Elvin immediately went for the hedges, Starlow and Stuffwell quietly behind.

Luigi and Elvin: Currently in Sixth Place, 1:36pm

Starlow and Stuffwell: Currently in Seventh Place, 1:36pm

Luigi and Elvin ran back to the tour office to wait out the Yield, while Starlow and Stuffwell headed for the next clue.

Starlow looked indignant. "No, I did NOT follow Luigi because I needed his help! I...just remembered that clue from earlier!"

One pair had backtracked to the clue after heading off a bit.

Toadette and Birdo: Currently in Eighth, 1:42pm

Toadette was annoyed at Wario again, while Birdo was just glad the Toads hadn't backtracked yet.

Pier Four

1:45pm

Kooper and Kolorado: 3/10 Laps, 3/3 cargo switches

Daisy and Rosalina: 3/10 Laps, 2/3 cargo switches

Mallow and Geno: 2/10 Laps, 2/3 cargo switches

Kooper and Kolorado could be seen laughing at Daisy as they passed her. She immediately increased her speed, trying to catch up to the Koopas who had just lapped Mallow and Geno, Rosalina trying to calm her down. Luigi would have blushed at some of the things that girl said.

Pier Twelve

1:45pm

Scorch and Bobbery: Past Checkpoint 4/10, -2 minutes, 12 seconds

Wakeport Antique Shop

Starlow and Stuffwell: Currently in Sixth, 1:46pm

Birdo and Toadette: Currently in Seventh, 1:49pm

Starlow started to panic, heading in the direction of the Detours. Birdo and Toadette headed off for the Blimport, and right into the trap of their teammates' creation.

Stuffwell sighed. "The requirements for these tasks are really screwing us over. This needs to stop, because I can't always pull the metaphorical rabbit out of the hat to keep us going."

Wakeport Tour Office

The last two teams watched Luigi and Elvin clock in on the Yield mat.

Luigi and Elvin: 59 minutes left

Luigi decided to pull out a marker, a cup, and some cardboard, wrote 'Help me win a million dollars for my girlfriend. Please donate spare change.', and put it next to the cup. He then started twiddling his thumbs.

BJ shrugged. "Gotta give the plumber credit. He manages to be crafty, but also plays by the rules, which is tougher to do than many would think. I'm interested in seeing what else my dad's number two enemy can do. Of course, that's not to say his tricks are better than mine."

Pier Twelve

Starlow took a look at the simulator before she started stringing swears together.

Starlow and Stuffwell: Currently in Fifth, 1:54pm

She prepared to steer the wheel by pushing it with her head, Stuffwell able to do little more than move the lever from forward to reverse slowly. It was going to be a LONG ride.

Wakeport Harbor

Toad and Toadsworth: Currently in Ninth, 1:57pm

Toad almost ran in the wrong direction, but Toadsworth pulled him back. Toad really needed to start working out.

Wakeport Tour Office

2:00pm

Luigi and Elvin: 52 minutes left

Papa Massif called for his sons, who motioned for the Juniors to follow.

Pier Four

2:00pm

Kooper and Kolorado: 6/10 Laps, 3/3 cargo switches

Daisy and Rosalina: 5/10 Laps, 3/3 cargo switches

Mallow and Geno: 4/10 Laps, 3/3 cargo switches

Pier Twelve

2:00pm

Scorch and Bobbery: Past Checkpoint 5/10, -2 minutes, 58 seconds

Starlow and Stuffwell: No Checkpoints passed

P'illo Blimport

Birdo and Toadette: Currently in Seventh, 2:06pm

Birdo talked to the block person, who directed her to the two book piles where Ace and Clay had gotten theirs. She took one look at the books, and dragged Toadette back to try the Detour instead.

Meanwhile, Ace hadn't made any progress with the translating, having only deciphered three lines of text. Clay had insisted they stuck with the plan, but Ace was having some serious doubts. She screamed.

Wakeport Antique Shop

Toad and Toadsworth: Currently in Eighth, 2:07pm

Toad pondered the clue for a moment. "Which task should we do, Toadsworth?"

"Definitely Cargo Hold." Toadsworth replied.

Pier Twelve

2:09pm

Starlow pushed the wheel left and right, frantically positioning herself to hit the device. "Hey! There's the first checkpoint!"

Stuffwell looked up and indeed saw the checkpoint. "Yes! Progress!"

Starlow saw a sandbar ahead. "Stuffwell! Reverse! REVERSE!"

"I'm trying, but my handle's stuck under the lever!"

"No! NOO!"*CRASH!*

The machine powered down. Starlow noted that a timer set for thirty minutes started counting down. She sighed and called the attendant to help her free Stuffwell.

Post-Crash Cooldown: 29 minutes to go

Wakeport Tour Office

2:12pm

Luigi and Elvin: 40 minutes to go

Luigi was shown doing a training exercise he created while honing his electric powers in the Beanbean Kingdom. He would first soak himself in water, then create small electric sparks which he'd shoot at three pre-made rubber targets. He'd keep shooting sparks while dodging reflected sparks until he got hit. Elvin took notes as he observed this strange ritual of sorts. "Hey Luigi, aren't you supposed to stay on the Yield mat?"

"Not exactly Elvin. The rules state that one of us must stay on the mat at all times. We both have to stay within a hundred feet of the mat. So have we gotten much change yet?"

Elvin took a look inside. "We got a little...about 15 gold coins. And a package of dental floss for some weird reason."

Pier Four

Toad and Toadsworth: Currently in Sixth, 2:15pm

Toadsworth walked up to the forklift, inspected the vehicle, and took off with Toad in back. Really slowly.

Kooper and Kolorado: 8/10 Laps, 3/3 cargo switches

Daisy and Rosalina: 7/10 Laps, 3/3 cargo switches

Mallow and Geno: 6/10 Laps, 3/3 cargo switches

Toad and Toadsworth: Just starting

Pier Twelve

2:15pm

Scorch and Bobbery: Past Checkpoint 7/10, -3 minutes, 46 seconds

Starlow and Stuffwell: 24 minutes left

Stuffwell was trying to calm Starlow down, but wasn't having much success. "Hey, just try to relax Starlow. It was all my fault, so I should be the only one worrying."

"How Stuffwell? How can I relax when I know this race is gonna keep hurting us like this?! I'm just going to destroy this team! The worst part is that I can't do anything to fix this!" She started looking through their bag, pulling out the orb for a second. "And to add insult to injury, I'm gonna finish behind LUIGI of all people! Ugh, I wish I wasn't held back just because I have no hands!"

All of a sudden, the orb glowed brighter.

Luigi was shown holding his orb. "Now, I think it's about time you know what the heck these orbs are worth."

And brighter.

"These orbs come from underground mines in Subcon, and have power that rarely can be controlled. To help channel their energy, they were placed in a protective fiberglass cubes and distributed throughout the kingdoms. Mario used them once when he saved the Star Rod from Bowser, using the 'Super Blocks' to power-up his partners, increasing their attack, and teaching them a new technique."

Then it started floating.

"Recently however, these orbs have started appearing in their original form outside of Subcon. No one knows why, but I have a hunch it has to do something with my adventures in the P'illo Kingdom since it included a dream world as well."

It grew brighter.

"So what is different about the orb when it's not contained? It basically becomes a limited one-wish genie. It can't affect anyone other than the one who uses it. It has a predestined owner that it can recognize."

It flashed a blinding silver.

"It is activated by a wish."

Then went straight into Starlow.

"Then it changes you. Forever."

She fainted.

Wakeport Tour Office

2:22pm

Luigi and Elvin: 30 minutes left

Luigi was now balancing the gold coins he had received on his big toe. He had tried it on his nose but for some reason that was really easy. He had no idea why. "Halfway through the Yield! How many coins are we at now?"

Elvin checked his calculations. "Our total is up to 48 gold coins. We also received a phone number with the message 'call me when she gets boring.'"

Luigi grabbed the coins from his toe and shook his head. "Sad."

Pier Twelve

2:26pm

Starlow was coming to. "Ugh, my head. What happened?"

Stuffwell looked very relieved. "Oh thank goodness you're awake! You were worrying after our ship wrecked when the orb from your pack went crazy and entered you for some reason!"

Starlow noticed her head felt strange. Not hurting, just weird. "Stuffwell, what did I say right before the orb acted up?"

"...wait, you said something about your lack of hands."

Starlow looked around and headed for a small box about five feet away. "Let me test something Stuff." She focused on the box. It glowed yellow, then levitated three feet into the air. "That's it! The orb fixes a person's weaknesses using a wish to focus the change around! I hated my lack of hands, so it gave me powers to make up for it!"

Stuffwell pondered the implications of such an item. "So where did you find it anyway?"

Starlow suddenly looked sheepish. "Um...Luigi gave me it."

Stuffwell rolled his eyes. "Figures. He probably knows what they do. Well, at least we can finish the Detour."

Pier Four

The race was as frantic as ever, teams racing as fast as ever. However, one suddenly pulled over, for that team had finished.

Kooper and Kolorado: Currently in First, 2:29pm, 72 minutes

Kooper pumped his fist in the air excitedly. "Yes! Take that girls! So, 'bout that clue."

Kolorado nodded. "On it...make your way on foot to Rose Broquet and find the secret entrance to Madame Broque, who holds your next clue. Come on Kooper!"

Daisy and Rosalina: 9/10 Laps, 3/3 cargo switches

Mallow and Geno: 7/10 Laps, 3/3 cargo switches

Toad and Toadsworth: 1/10 Laps, 0/3 cargo switches

Pier Twelve

Scorch and Bobbery: Past Checkpoint 9/10, -6 minutes, 34 seconds

Starlow and Stuffwell: 9 minutes left

Birdo and Toadette received the instructions before entering the simulator.

Birdo and Toadette: Currently in Seventh, 2:32pm

Wakeport Harbor

2:35pm

Papa Massif gave the warning, then the command to go. Both teams knew the location.

BJ and JT: Currently in Tenth, 2:36pm

Big and Lil: Currently in Last, 2:36pm

Pier Four

Daisy and Rosalina: Currently in Second, 2:37pm, 90 minutes

Daisy parked the forklift and grabbed the clue while Rosalina grabbed their bags. "So Rosalina, how often do you see Earth from the Observatory?"

"Never. The Observatory doesn't enter your solar system. The only way for me to reach your planet is with the teleporter that professor friend of Luigi built for me." Rosalina replied.

Daisy looked confused. "But I thought you could teleport?"

"Not across the galaxy. The farthest I could teleport would be comparable to the range of a Launch Star."

"Oh."

Pier Twelve

Scorch and Bobbery-Student and Mentor

Bobbery was having a blast with the technology in this simulator. "This is really fun Scorch! If we win, I'm gonna see if I can upgrade the ship with some of these innovations!"

Scorch rolled his eyes. "You mean WHEN we win. Anyway, I see the finish line ahead."

Bobbery started accelerating, and the ship passed between the buoys marking the line with no problems.

Scorch and Bobbery: Currently in Third, 2:38pm, 95 minutes

Bobbery hopped on Scorch, who took off, determined to create a cushion to survive the penalty.

P'illo Blimport

2:40pm

Ace was getting fed up with this challenge. Frustrated in their lack of progress, she somehow managed to fling the huge book across the room. "THIS IS POINTLESS! WE'VE BEEN HERE TWO HOURS, AND WE'VE ONLY DECODED ONE PAGE! **** YOU WARIO! **** you..."

Clay managed to stop his gawking at her strength. "Come on Ace, there's gotta be someway to do this challenge, somehow..."

Ace gave a chuckle, but it wasn't joy. "Yeah, if you knew how to speak Danish."

Her bag glowed. "I wish languages weren't a barrier to me."

The Super Orb flashed and entered her. She fainted. Naturally, Clay panicked. He ran to the advisor and asked if he could look up something on the computer. He ran a search on the object and clicked on one labeled 'Effects of a Super Orb'. He read about the uses for one, how it is activated, and was relieved when he read that fainting was normal and that she'd wake in ten to thirty minutes. He just hoped she'd still speak English to him. Girls were already difficult to understand.

Pier Twelve

Starlow and Stuffwell: 0 minutes left

Starlow excitedly entered the simulator, knowing things would be different this time around. Stuffwell kept lookout while she manned the controls.

Wakeport Tour Office

2:42pm

Luigi and Elvin: 10 minutes left

Luigi had gotten bored balancing coins on his toe, so he decided to try balancing on the edge of them instead. Elvin was wondering how this kid ended up a plumber, but figured that things were different in the Real World. "Having fun Luigi?"

Luigi hopped down. Somehow the ten coins stacked on their edges didn't fall. "Meh, it's okay, but you know I'd rather be racing. At least it's almost over."

Wakeport Antique Shop

BJ and JT: Currently in Ninth, 2:43pm

Big and Lil: Currently in Tenth, 2:43pm

BJ noticed a slot to insert the Express Pass and inserted his, Big following suit. A pair of clues came out a second slot.

BJ and JT: Currently in Fourth, 2:44pm

Big and Lil: Currently in Fifth, 2:44pm

JT hopped on BJ's shell, which started ricocheting through Wakeport. Big and Lil followed behind, receiving encouragement from the locals along the way.

Big smiled at the memory. "Was nice to have people cheer beefcakes on. Feel bad siding with side salads at home. Should have no trouble here, but still have to help others keep up."

Pier Four

Mallow parked his forklift rather haphazardly, but Cap T. voiced no complaints, silently giving the clue.

Mallow and Geno: Currently in Sixth, 2:45pm, 88 minutes

Geno took a look at the clue and groaned. "Rose Broquet? That sounds so girly!"

Mallow shrugged. "Could be worse. Doesn't sound like we're doing a challenge, just a puzzle, and you're good at those."

Toad and Toadsworth: 4/10 Laps, 1/3 cargo switches

Toad seemed to have trouble with the ramps, struggling to control his direction on them. He occasionally got stuck, but Toadsworth always fixed it.

Pier Twelve

2:45pm

Toadette and Birdo: Past 1/10 Checkpoints, +5 seconds

Starlow and Stuffwell: Almost to Checkpoint 1/10, -24 seconds

Toadette had trouble steering fast, so she had to slow before almost every turn. Starlow was doing well this time though, compared to the nightmare that was her first attempt. Stuffwell enjoyed the view, pondering what powered the orbs, before realizing that Luigi was the only one who could know. He'd rather not know.

Wakeport Tour Office

Luigi and Elvin: 0 minutes left

Luigi and Elvin: Sixth to Last, 2:52pm

Luigi grabbed Elvin before hopping onto the rooftops, knowing that they were still in this race if someone else slipped up. For the record, they collected eighty-nine coins.

Wakeport Antique Shop

Luigi and Elvin: Currently in Last, 2:57pm

Luigi showed his partner the clue. "I say that we drive the forklift since you could probably hotwire the thing to help us catch up."

Elvin nodded, seeing Luigi's point.

Pier Twelve

3:00pm

Toadette and Birdo, Past Checkpoint 3/10, +3 minutes, 5 seconds

Starlow and Stuffwell, Almost to Checkpoint 3/10, -46 seconds

Toadette wasn't doing too well, as she had unfortunately discovered that even a boat simulator made her seasick. As a result, Birdo was now in control, and doing worse than Toadette had, since her snout prevented her from seeing the controls. "No way! I see someone catching up to us, but the only team here besides us would the Star Sprite and the suitcase!"

Toadette looked up at Birdo. "But wouldn't they have trouble without hands?"

"That's what I'm saying!"

Pier Four

Luigi and Elvin: Currently in Tenth, 3:03pm

Luigi ran onto the deck and listened to Cap T's speech while Elvin made some improvements to the forklift. After Cap T fainted for the last time today, Luigi hopped in and took off with Elvin in tow.

Toad and Toadsworth: 5/10 Laps completed, 2/3 cargo switches

Luigi and Elvin: Just Starting

P'illo Blimport

3:07pm

Ace groggily woke up. "Oy, moya golova...da?"

Clay looked over. "Ace, you're awake!"

Ace looked confused. "What happened?"

Clay showed her the explanation he had found and printed from the internet. She seemed excited for the task now. "Okay! Now to get reading! Kapitel en..."

We now zoom in to the luxurious beach known as Driftwood Shore, known for defying the tides to the point where one could float in the water like he or she was on a lazy river. Here lies one shop known for being the highest-class shop on the whole island: the Rose Broquet.

Kooper and Kolorado: Currently in First, 3:11pm

Kooper was the first to step inside, noticing a large crowd of people. Kolorado pointed out a sign on the ceiling above the entrance that read as follows:

Congratulations on making it this far! To solve the puzzle you must input the secret code at the back of the shop. Your hint: The number of viruses in the average herd.

Kolorado grabbed Kooper and headed for the nearby cave, knowing that viruses could be found there.

Pier Four

3:15pm

Toad and Toadsworth: 6/10 Laps completed, 2/3 cargo switches

Luigi and Elvin: 2/10 Laps completed, 1/3 cargo switches

Toadsworth looked to the side to see Luigi flying past again. "Is that thing even street legal?"

Toad just shrugged. "Probably modded by the professor. We're not on a street anyway."

Pier Twelve

3:15pm

Starlow and Stuffwell: Past 4/10 Checkpoints, -2 minutes, 3 seconds

Birdo and Toadette: Past 3/10 Checkpoints, +7 minutes, 15 seconds

Birdo had to stop so Toadette's stomach could settle. "So you realize we're guaranteed a 20 minute wait after this, right Toadette?"

Toadette looked up from where she was sitting. "I'd rather have that. Only other option is to start from scratch."

Rose Broquet

Scorch and Bobbery: Currently in Second, 3:18pm

Daisy and Rosalina: Currently in Third, 3:19pm

Scorch took a look at the clue and seemed confused. "Hey Captain, what the heck do viruses have to do with Driftwood Shore?"

Bobbery jumped on Scorch's head for his insolence. "ADMIRAL. Anyway, viruses were first discovered in Dr. Mario's office by the water. They can now be found near the lake at Woohoo Hooniversity, and nearly everywhere in the P'illo Kingdom. They can also live in the water, which is why we fight so many on our ship."

Scorch lit up. "Oh yeah! I know this riddle! Let's go back there and take a lead!"

Daisy took a look at them running away and sighed. "Well, let's get searching..."

"Viruses are a waterborne enemy," Scorch explained," leaping out of the water on your ship or attacking you for coming near their source of water. One thing is guaranteed though; they ALWAYS attack in herds of sixteen. We would have told the girls, but we had our own problems with the penalty."

BJ and JT: Currently in Fourth, 3:22pm

Big and Lil: Currently in Fifth, 3:22pm

BJ read the hint and looked to the bros. "Any idea guys?"

Big shook his head. "No clue side salad. Beefcakes do know viruses live nearby in cave. Can go and check."

JT groaned. "Fine. Let's check."

"Had to slow side salads somehow." Big explained. "Beefcakes know 16 viruses in a group. Is first grade science! But side salad couldn't prove it so. Not now, at least."

Mallow and Geno: Currently in Sixth, 3:23pm

Mallow took a look at the clue and started asking around, getting an answer on the third try. They ran to the back, hoping it was correct. Meanwhile, Scorch and Bobbery had just inputted the code. Bobbery went first. "Hello Miss Broque, I am Admiral Bobbery and this is my partner Scorch. We are here for the race."

She simply handed them an envelope, and motioned for them to leave. As they left, Bobbery opened the envelope.

Scorch and Bobbery: Currently in First, 3:24pm

Scorch took a look. "Roadblock! Who's race is about to go downhill?"

A Roadblock is a task that may only be attempted by one member of each team. Each team member must do at least eight, but no member can attempt more than ten over the course of the race. In this Roadblock, teams will try and master a local favorite; water skiing.

In this Roadblock, one member of each team will head to the Driftwood Cave, known for its large water skiing resort with a downhill course that goes through nearly the entire cave. Once the instructor finishes their explanation, the challenger must then tackle the Downhill Cave Course, while collecting 40 of the 60 coins scattered about the river. If they complete the challenge, they will receive their next clue. If they collect less than 40 coins OR wipe out on the way down, they must head to the top and try again. There is a two minute wait between runs, so racers may have to wait a while.

"I'm doing this one!" Scorch declared. "Needs hands anyway."

Driftwood Cave

3:26pm

Kooper and Kolorado-Archeologists

Kolorado was scanning his surroundings with a pair of binoculars, spotting a group of sixteen viruses. "The answer's sixteen Kooper! Let's head back!"

They then ran off, unaware that another team had overheard them.

Daisy and Rosalina-BFFs

Daisy was relieved that they didn't have to fight any viruses. "The last thing I'd want is to get sick on the race! Let's catch up to those Koopas!"

"I understand you have a penalty, but for crying out loud, thirty minutes is not sending you home this round and it would have taken five seconds to tell us! Really Scorch?!" Yep, Daisy wasn't too happy.

3:28pm

BJ and JT/Big and Lil-Junior Jokers/Brothers

The Juniors didn't have any binoculars on them, so they had to get up close to see. Unfortunately for them, that meant getting in a fight. BJ wrote a 16 on his hand before unleashing a fireball on the blue one in the middle, changing it to yellow and completing a four-in-a-row, leaving 12. JT unleashed a weak water spell, but it hit a pair of red viruses, dealing double damage to the fire types, defeating them and leaving 10. Big decided to unleash a devastating headbutt that knocked out an entire row of four at once, while Lil grabbed and tossed a blue one into a row of three yellow, leaving only two to go. The viruses ran away, a smart decision. The group of four started heading back, but BJ was curious. "Hey JT, when did you learn to do magic without a wand? Even Kamek has trouble with that!"

JT cringed at the memory. "After the last fight I had with Mario, I was still unconscious when the castles fell back to Earth, and I ended up swallowing my wand when I woke up. I went to a relatively young doctor, Doctor Toadley. He proclaimed in the weirdest way that I had swallowed a basic elemental wand. I would need a new wand to do any other type of magic, but apparently, I have this weird condition. No name for it, but I can't choke. Anything too big to eat just gets absorbed into my body. That means that if I ate a different wand, I could use those powers anytime as well."

BJ's eyes boggled at the concept. "Whoa. Dude, that's insane."

Rose Broquet

Mallow and Geno: Currently in Second, 3:29pm

Mallow took one look at the clue and knew he wanted this challenge. "I'll take this one! Probably involves water, and I'm pretty sure wood doesn't like getting wet. So today, I guess I'm water skiing."

Pier Four

3:30pm

Toad and Toadsworth: 7/10 Laps Completed, 3/3 cargo switches

Luigi and Elvin: 4/10 Laps Completed, 2/3 cargo switches

Luigi was having a blast. "Woo! This is awesome! Maybe I could use this thing in my next Mario Kart tournament!"

Pier Twelve

3:30pm

Starlow and Stuffwell: Past 6/10 Checkpoints, -3 minutes, 19 seconds

Birdo and Toadette: Past 4/10 Checkpoints, +12 minutes, 23 seconds

P'illo Blimport

3:32pm

Ace was breezing through the book, as she was a fast reader. Clay then came to a realization that made him feel pathetic. "Hey Ace, I feel stupid right now."

"Again?"

Clay rolled his eyes. "Real funny, UT."

Ace looked up. "UT?"

Clay met her gaze. "UT, for Universal Translator. Anyway, I just realized we could have looked this info up on the internet. They have that stuff online."

Ace face palmed. "Kami watashi no ā, hontōni? Uwa..."

Clay gave her a curious glance, but decided not to ask what she'd said. "Anyway, how much longer?"

"I think I'll be ready by 4!" She replied.

Rose Broquet

Kooper and Kolorado: Currently in Third, 3:39pm

Daisy and Rosalina: Currently in Fourth, 3:40pm

BJ and JT: Currently in Fifth, 3:43pm

Big and Lil: Currently in Sixth, 3:43pm

Kooper headed off first, followed by Rosalina(after a bit of begging by Daisy), JT, and Lil, all heading towards the Roadblock. The others then headed to the designated waiting room where they found Bobbery reading a magazine and Geno meditating.

"I'm not saying they're a bad team, but I'm worried about Scorch and Bobbery." Rosalina stated. "Scorch has done the first three Roadblocks in a row. He can only do up to ten, so this may bite them later."

3:44pm

We now look behind Driftwood Cave to find a rather large building sticking out the back. One team member can be seen having just finished his instructions. Another was waiting for that guy to go.

Scorch: Beginning First Attempt

Mallow: Waiting for First Attempt

Scorch gave the thumbs-up and started down. He grabbed the first few easily, as the river was still pretty steady. The Yoshi then missed three coins as he and the boat leaped off a waterfall at the top entrance to the cave. "Whoa! What the ****?! Hopefully I'll be ready next time." He said to himself as he went up a ramp for his seventh coin out of ten possible. It wasn't going to get any easier.

Pier Four

3:45pm

Toad and Toadsworth: 9/10 Laps Completed, 3/3 cargo switches

Luigi and Elvin: 6/10 Laps Completed, 3/3 cargo switches

Luigi took a look around. "This ship is a lot easier to race on when it's still docked. Getting boring though..."

Pier Twelve

3:45pm

Starlow and Stuffwell: Past 7/10 Checkpoints, -3 minutes, 45 seconds

Toadette and Birdo: Past 5/10 Checkpoints, +12 minutes, 39 seconds

Birdo looked behind her. "Hey Toadette, feeling any better?"

She slowly looked up to Birdo and shook her head. "Sorry, but not now. I'd just crash the boat if I tried to steer."

Driftwood Cave

3:46pm

Scorch: On First Attempt, 21/38 coins

Scorch yelped as he narrowly avoided a Sushi. "Who the **** puts a Sushi in a river meant for water skiing?! Ugh, can't miss many more coins." He then turned a sharp right to enter an alternate pathway with five coins, which he grabbed in a single pass.

Mallow: On First Attempt, 6/6 coins

Mallow was doing good so far, but of course, he hadn't entered the cave yet. Mallow fared a little better, as his flight trajectory got him one of the three coins from the falls. He then hit the ramp for another coin and adjusted his landing for two more.

Pier Four

Toad and Toadsworth: Currently in Seventh, 3:51pm, 96 minutes

Toad ripped the clue open hastily. "Hm, the beach. Let's hurry! Luigi's gonna be gaining fast!"

Driftwood Cave

3:54pm

Scorch, obviously, was the first to finish. Unfortunately for him, he'd only grabbed 34 coins and had to head back up.

Mallow: On First Attempt, 29/47 coins

Mallow was doing better than Scorch, but was in a spot where he had to grab eleven of the last thirteen coins. He aimed carefully off a trio of ramps, but missed three on the third ramp.

Kooper: Beginning First Attempt

JT: Waiting for First Attempt

Rosalina: Waiting for First Attempt

Lil: Waiting for First Attempt

Scorch: Waiting for Second Attempt

Mallow: Heading back up

Kooper grabbed the first six easily, but wiped out on the waterfall, his angle knocking him ashore. Dejected, he headed back in line.

"Koopas are many things, but aerodynamic is NOT one of them." Kooper explained. "So when I hit the falls that first time, I was helpless. I was too surprised to even hide in my shell for the landing, so I have these scrapes on my knees now."

P'illo Blimport

3:57pm

"I'm ready!"

The attendant looked surprised. "Oh, you're still here. Follow me, I have a written test followed by a simulator. You pass those, you get the Fast Forward."

She followed him anxiously behind the doors, with Clay left outside to wait for the results.

Pier Four

4:00pm

Luigi and Elvin: 8/10 Laps Completed, 3/3 cargo switches

Luigi just seemed flat out bored now. "Lot less fun when you're the last team here. Hopefully there are teams still stuck on the boats."

Pier Twelve

4:00pm

Starlow and Stuffwell: Past 8/10 Checkpoints, -3 minutes, 2 seconds

Birdo and Toadette: Past 6/10 Checkpoints, +14 minutes, 12 seconds

Starlow had slowed a bit. "I'm starting to feel a bit tired. It's probably because I'm not used to these powers yet. Kinda drains ya."

Driftwood Shore

4:05pm

JT: On First Attempt, 32/52 coins

Rosalina: On First Attempt, 24/39 coins

Lil: On First Attempt, 18/27 coins

Scorch: On Second Attempt, 15/18 coins

Mallow: On Second Attempt, 9/9 coins

Kooper: Waiting for Second Attempt

JT was doing great, but needed to avoid missing any more to get his clue. He completed the ramps successfully, but then fell off when he missed the ramp to the anti-gravity river section. Yes, I said anti-gravity for a water skiing challenge. I don't really know how it's possible. He headed back up to the start, swearing all the way. If you listened carefully, you might hear the name 'Wario' mentioned a few times for some reason.

Pier Four

Luigi and Elvin: Currently in Eighth, 4:11pm, 68 minutes

Luigi opened the clue. "Ah, Rose Broquet. That woman seemed to favor Bowser, but it was a pretty sweet joint. I'll carry you Professor, get on!" He climbed on, then the plumber took off.

P'illo Blimport

4:14pm

Ace had just finished the written portion, and was anxiously awaiting the results. "How'd I do, sir?"

The attendant looked at the results. "To pass, you need a 94% or higher. You scored...a 98! Very impressive for one so young!"

Ace was elated at the news. "Wow, thanks! So when can I take on the simulator?"

The attendant looked surprised. "Um, right now if you're ready. Are you sure you don't need a moment to rest first?"

Ace shook her head to indicate the negative, and was led to the simulator.

Pier Twelve

4:15pm

Starlow and Stuffwell: Almost Finished, -2 minutes, 15 seconds

Toadette and Birdo: Past 7/10 Checkpoints, +16 minutes, 10 seconds

Birdo stopped the boat for a second break. "You okay Toadette?"

"Not right now," she replied. "I'm feeling pretty queasy. Just keep going, if I get too nauseous, I'll just use a bucket."

Birdo didn't start it up. "Don't worry, I'm taking a break too. This thing is really stressing me out, so I just needed a breather."

Driftwood Cave

4:15pm

Kooper: On Second Attempt, 12/54 coins

JT: On Second Attempt, 23/42 coins

Rosalina: On Second Attempt, 26/37 coins

Lil: On Second Attempt

Scorch: Waiting for Third Attempt

Mallow: Waiting for Third Attempt

Kooper had missed his goal already, but he was stubborn enough to ride the whole course anyway...until he wiped out on the anti-grav section. The swears seemed to mimic the pattern of JT's.

Pier Twelve

Starlow and Stuffwell: Currently in Ninth, 4:22pm, 101 minutes

Starlow grabbed the clue and ripped it opened instead of having someone open it for her. "...ugh. I remember this place. Total snobville."

Driftwood Cave

4:26pm

Scorch: On Third Attempt, 47/54 coins

Mallow: On Third Attempt, 26/41 coins

Kooper: On Third Attempt, 14/31 coins

JT: On Third Attempt, 18/21 coins

Rosalina: On Third Attempt, 10/10 coins

Lil: Starting Third Attempt, 0/0 coins

Scorch had secured his 40, and he just needed to avoid a wipeout to receive his clue. He hit the anti-grav with ease, collected the three coins upside down, and flipped back. He then reached the final obstacle, which no one had avoided so far: the Pirate Ship. He entered, leaping gracefully over the Cheep Chomp that ambushed racers as they entered, dodged the torpedoes launched by the cannons, and leapt out the waterfall at the end. However, he lost his grip on the handle during his descent, and the lake at the bottom was coming up quick. He reached for the handle...and slipped. However, in a miracle he can't comprehend, he bounced off the water on his skis and grabbed the handle without wiping out. The driver handed Scorch a ticket, and told him to insert it where his teammate was waiting to receive the clue.

Rose Broquet

Toad and Toadsworth: Currently in Seventh, 4:29pm

Toad looked at the clue and decided to ask around, but was having less luck than Mallow.

Pier Twelve

3:30pm

Toadette and Birdo: Past 8/10 Checkpoints, +20 minutes, 57 seconds

That bucket never stood a chance against Toadette's fury of the sea. Poor bucket.

Driftwood Cave

4:34pm

Rosalina: On Third Attempt, 57/59 coins

Lil: On Third Attempt, 37/42 coins

Mallow: On Fourth Attempt, 24/26 coins

Kooper: On Fourth Attempt, 9/18 coins

JT: On Fourth Attempt, 3/3 coins

Rosalina took the final leap with ease, grabbing the last coin as a boast. Any pro would have been proud of such a run. Meanwhile, JT was getting sick of this challenge, so when he wiped out because of a sneeze, the results were not pretty.

P'illo Blimport

Ace shot out of the building like a rocket, glomping Clay off his feet. The boy chuckled. "I guess you passed, eh?"

She looked up, smiling brightly, and nodded.

Ace and Clay: Currently in First, 4:37pm

Ace ripped open the clue, eagerly anticipating the pit stop. "Congratulations on winning the Fast Forward! As your reward for completing this challenge, you may skip all other tasks and head directly to Eldream Fountain, where the last team to arrive may be eliminated! Oh my gosh Clay! Let's hurry!" She ran off, Clay trying to keep up but struggling since he had to carry her pack along with his own. He couldn't blame her for being excited though.

Rose Broquet

Luigi and Elvin: Currently in Ninth, 4:44pm

Luigi sighed as he saw Toad still looking for help on the question. "Hey Toad, come over here." The fungus obliged, looking a little ticked off still, but Luigi figured the guy was just acting stubborn. "Listen Toad, I know the answer, and I'll give it to you on one condition."

The rival looked confused. "Um, no alliances, right?"

Luigi shook his head. "Nope, I understand Elvin scares you, and I won't hold that against you. Calling us your enemies however, seems a bit extreme. I suggest a truce. No yielding or harassing each other. I'll talk to the Koopas later, but what do you say? Deal?"

Toad thought for a second, then agreed reluctantly. "Okay, but nothing more. So what's the answer?"

"Sixteen. Now come on, we need to catch up." Luigi and Elvin took off, the Toads close behind.

Luigi and Elvin: Currently in Eighth, 4:48pm

Toad and Toadsworth: Currently in Ninth, 4:48pm

Luigi agreed to do this, along with Toad. Sound logic considering they had experience from Mario Parties. As they left, Luigi spotted Starlow entering and told her the answer as well. She yelled at him of course, but she still used it to get in.

Starlow and Stuffwell: Currently in Tenth, 4:51pm

Starlow agreed to go since she could grab the coins easier. Of course, she totally knew the answer was sixteen. Of course she did. Meanwhile, the first two had returned from the Roadblock, Scorch with a small lead over Rosalina.

Scorch and Bobbery: Currently in First, 4:52pm

Daisy and Rosalina: Currently in Second, 4:53pm

Scorch inserted the ticket, pulled out the clue, muttered something about pillows and a lack of cute girls, before mentioning the pit stop. Bobbery rode off on Scorch, careful to travel on foot, while the girls followed close behind.

Driftwood Cave

Lil finally stuck the landing, Mallow close behind, and ran off for the shop.

JT: On Fifth Attempt, 24/24 coins

Kooper: On Fifth Attempt, 7/7 coins

This course was getting on JT's last nerve, but he was at least getting better. Kooper couldn't really say the same.

Pier Twelve

"OH JEEZ! FINALLY!" A female fungus exclaimed, happy to have her stomach settled. Birdo just sighed and started the timer, having finished twenty minutes slow.

Toadette and Birdo: 19 minutes left

Driftwood Cave

JT landed with a considerable amount of flair to finish the course, and started the run back to the shop. Kooper, meanwhile, had fallen off the anti-gravity section, and was waiting on the ceiling for Lakitu, all the while pondering how he fell onto the ceiling when he wasn't on anti-gravity anymore. He never got an answer to that.

Mushrise Park

Welcome to Mushrise Park, a scenic location that somehow got the funds for a convoluted plant watering robot while having a bed out under no roof. Seriously, he should have just built a small residence or shed. Instead, we got a statue of Eldream, the lazy bum who withheld a special move for no real reason. At least there's a pit stop.

"WAHAHA!"

And with a pit stop, comes Wario. Even the representative, Mr. Brickle, was disturbed by this guy. Maybe he should have hidden under that bed. It seemed more comfortable than standing next to...wait, who was this guy again? "Um, when should the teams start arriving? We've been waiting a while." And with wasted time, comes wasted profits of course.

Wario shrugged it off. "Don't worry. I see a team in the distance."

And he actually was right. The team ran onto the mat, sweating heavily.

"Welcome to the P'illo Kingdom."

"Thank you. It is a very nice place."

Wario shook his head. "Well then, this is a surprise. I guess no one else is right behind, so I'll make this quick...Ace and Clay, you are the first team to arrive!"

Ace and Clay: First Place, 4:58pm, Day 3

"YES!" Ace exulted, while Clay simply smiled.

"As a reward for winning this leg," Wario continued,"you have each won a jet ski, yours to use after the race!"

Clay gave Ace a quick kiss, before replying. "Thanks. This means a lot. Of course, hopefully we'll do it at least once without a Fast Forward."

Wario gave a smug grin. "We'll see. Remember it'll get harder from here on out, so a follow-up victory will only come from skill."

Clay returned the look. "Then remember that next time, or I'll remind you."

Wario looked over their shoulders for a second. "You can head to P'illo Castle now to rest up for next leg, as another team's coming this way."

"Wow, a castle!" Ace exclaimed, dragging Clay with her. If he wasn't used to it, he probably would have fallen a few times.

The next team landed on the mat, the younger of them striking a dramatic pose. Wario ignored the strangeness of the pose. "Ahem, congrats on being the second team to arrive Scorch and Bobbery, but you have unfortunately incurred a thirty minute penalty for ignoring instructions to travel on foot. Please wait on the nearby park bench."

Scorch and Bobbery: 29 minutes left

Bobbery sat down, but Scorch didn't move. "Um, Scorch? Over here."

"I'm stuck in this pose."

Bobbery would have face faulted, but he wouldn't have been able to get back up. "Wario, can I have some help?"

Wario sweatdropped. "Um, sure." He picked Scorch up and set him on the bench. "If he's still like that after your penalty, I believe there's a massage place somewhere in the castle. Mind if I ask a question?"

"Go ahead." Bobbery responded.

"How can you explode more than once? With how most bombs work, wouldn't it act like a suicide manuveur?"

"Nope, Bomb-ombs have a practically indestructible exterior, immune to the explosions they make. Of course, we need to refill our gunpowder after each blast, so Bomb-ombs run away after they explode."

"Woah, cool stuff dude."

"So Wario, here's a counter question. Since you and Waluigi are experts at wielding Bomb-ombs, how didn't you know that?"

Wario shrugged. "I don't make them myself, I have a private supplier. He never told me how they work. I think you can understand that Bobbery. But how could I never see them after they explode?"

"Bomb-ombs already run at a decent speed," Bobbery reasoned, "so they move even faster without the large supplies of explosives weighing them down. If they can't escape, it allows them to move fast enough to launch a few tackles. Some even move fast enough to create afterimages. On the other hand, some Bomb-ombs become experienced enough to hold multiple explosions at once. Mario avoided this problem by using the Crystal Stars/Star Spirits to restore us. That's an exception though."

Wario pondered this for a moment. "Interesting. Much deeper than I anticipated."

Driftwood Cave

Luigi plucked a nearby Fire Flower before entering the building, taking note of the course map on the wall. He then had to regain his balance as he was pushed out of the way by an irritated Kooper. "You okay?"

"Don't ask."

Luigi just shrugged in response and followed the soaked-shell racer up the steps. Toad just groaned at the failed attempt at diplomacy, and headed up, Starlow close behind.

Rose Broquet

Mallow inserted the ticket, followed by Lil.

Mallow and Geno: Currently in Fourth Place, 5:11pm

Big and Lil: Currently in Fifth Place, 5:11pm

BJ let them go ahead, knowing that his teammate wasn't far behind. And of course, since they weren't his targets this leg.

Mushrise Park

Scorch and Bobbery: 17 minutes left

Scorch was still stuck in his pose, however he had found he could still move his tongue. As any logical Yoshi would do, he promptly got it stuck in the nearby vending machine. Bobbery just sighed. Wario however, was ignoring all that...whatever you can call that, in favor of another arriving team, who managed to trip on the mat together.

"Ummm, welcome to the P'illo Kingdom."

"Thanks." One of them replied.

"As pathetic as that was," Wario continued, "Daisy and Rosalina, due to Scorch and Bobbery's penalty, you are the second team to arrive!"

Daisy and Rosalina: Second Place, 5:14pm, Day 3

Daisy groaned. "Ugh, forgot the Fast Forward was used."

"Hey, second is still better than sixth," Rosalina pointed out, "so we're getting closer."

"Yeah, I guess so." Daisy agreed. "So what happened to Scorch?"

"Don't ask." Bobbery deadpanned.

Rose Broquet

BJ and JT: Currently in Sixth Place, 5:15pm

BJ took one look at JT. "How bad was it?"

"Anti-gravity."

BJ facepalmed. "Oh jeez. Come on, let's just get to the Pit Stop so you can dry off. You've gotta be cold."

JT nodded sheepishly, then got on BJ's shell before it launched the ricochet.

Pier Twelve

The timer dinged, and Toadette jumped for joy as Birdo eagerly destroyed the envelope containing the clue. "Hm, Rose Broquet? I've heard of that place. Pretty upscale shop for Wario to know of."

Driftwood Cave

Kooper: Wiped Out

Luigi: 39/49 coins collected

Toad: 14/34 coins collected

Starlow: 21/23 coins collected

Kooper sighed as he waited on the ceiling again, taking off his shell to get the water out, surprising himself as he almost dropped it to the floor below. Ignoring the strange physics that somehow allowed this, he flung his shell at Luigi coming up to the ramp. Luigi jumped it, but missed the ramp as a result. Kooper chuckled as the shell returned thanks to the blue color giving it boomerang-esque properties, Lakitu rescuing him while Luigi cursed.

"What the ****, man?!" Luigi swore. "The nerve of that guy! My partner gives him a little scare, and he and his teammate not only break the alliance, but Yield me and ****ing SABOTAGE me! I made up with Toad and Toadsworth, because they were just caught in the middle, but the Koopas just lost that chance! Daisy better not be watching the next time we meet, because those results WON'T be pretty. Next time that shell's coming, I'll just ****ing smash it."

Starlow landed easily with 48 coins on the first try, having used her psychic abilities to pull every coin she saw.

Mushrise Park

Wario looked over at the pair on the bench. "Your time's up guys. Normally I'd tell you to come up to the mat, but since that's not possible, Scorch and Bobbery, you are the third team to arrive!"

Scorch and Bobbery: Third Place, 5:31pm, Day 3

Bobbery sighed. "Works for me. Is there someone you can call for this?"

Wario grumbled something and sent the production crew over to work on Scorch's tongue.

Driftwood Cave

Kooper gave a shout of joy as he landed, barely making it with exactly forty coins. He then flipped the bird at Luigi, despite having four fingers.

Luigi: 40/40 coins collected

Toad: 19/28 coins collected

This of course ticked the plumber off even more, and he responded by taking his anger out, violently punching the next Sushi that tried getting in his way, having lost the Fire Flower when he fell off.

"He seemed really mad at me for some reason." Kooper said, confused. "He deserved what he got, bringing someone as insane as Elvin into the race. He has no reason to claim that I was unfair in my actions, for he was asking for it the moment he entered the race."

Luigi landed as gracefully as ever, all 60 coins in his pockets. He took off the gear before taking off at record speed, determined to hurt a certain turtle. BADLY.

Rose Broquet

Toadette and Birdo entered the building, took a look at the riddle, and headed out, figuring that viruses must be nearby. Starlow passed them on her way in and proceeded to insert her ticket.

Starlow and Stuffwell: Currently in Seventh, 5:36pm

After a bragging 'first try' remark, Starlow hurried to head out with Stuffwell in tow.

Mushrise Park

Big and Lil hurried onto the mat, followed by Mallow and Geno and the speedier Juniors.

"Welcome to the P'illo Kingdom." Brickle stated, "And welcome back Massifs, nice to see you again."

"Uh, thanks Brick Boy." Big stated.

"When did Brick Boy get nice?" Lil whispered to Big.

"Since on TV." Big whispered back.

"Welcome, Alliance minus two." Wario said bluntly. "Big and Lil, you are the fourth team to arrive,"

Big and Lil: Fourth Place, 5:39pm, Day 3

"Mallow and Geno, you are the fifth team to arrive,"

Mallow and Geno: Fifth Place, 5:39pm, Day 3

"BJ and JT, that makes you the sixth team to arrive."

BJ and JT: Sixth Place, 5:39pm, Day 3

The bros high-stumped, Mallow and Geno high-fived, and the Juniors just smiled at the news.

"So, nice move on the girls." Wario noted. "You think it will work?"

"Doesn't matter." BJ replied. "The name of the game is to push everyone else back behind us. If we're ahead, it doesn't matter who's eliminated."

Rose Broquet

Elvin shuddered. Kolorado looked worried. "Hey, Elvin. Are you feeling alright?"

"Yeah, I'm just worried Luigi's not." Elvin replied. "I get a shiver whenever some poor sap manages to upset him. Luckily this one's not too bad. He's probably just annoyed."

Driftwood Cave

Toad: 35/50 coins collected

Toad hit the ramp to anti-grav, but hit the side of the ship. Grumbling words to fit the sailor of such a ship, he began the swim to shore. Meanwhile, in the main part of the cave, Birdo was launching eggs to escape a group of viruses, while Toadette threw some turnips she'd found outside in a garden. Winning handily, the girls headed back.

Rose Broquet

Kooper ran in, fear evident in his expression, and used his ticket.

Kooper and Kolorado: Currently in Eighth, 5:47pm

Kooper ricocheted out with Kolorado right behind. Ten seconds later, Luigi burst through the doors and got his clue.

Luigi and Elvin: Currently in Ninth, 5:48pm

Luigi pulled Elvin onto his shoulders and stormed out at full speed.

Driftwood Cave

Toad landed with a stumble, but didn't wipe out. Giving a sigh of relief, Toad headed out.

Mushrise Park

Starlow landed on the mat, Stuffwell in her grip. "Hey Wario, spill the beans, how'd we do?"

"Well, Starlow and Stuffwell, you are the seventh team to arrive!"

Starlow and Stuffwell: Seventh Place, 5:52pm, Day 3

"Yes!" Stuffwell exclaimed. "Getting up there!"

Rose Broquet

Toadette and Birdo: Currently in Last, 5:57pm

Toadette opened the clue, then groaned. "Can you do this one Birdo?"

Birdo took a quick look at the clue. "Ugh, sure. You'll owe me one though!"

Mushrise Park

Kooper and Kolorado were seen ricocheting through the park, an angry Luigi actually keeping up with them. The Koopas barely dodged a series of kicks and tiny thunderbolts before falling onto the mat in a sweaty heap. Luigi joined them, jumping on each of their heads first before landing on the mat. Mr. Brickle sweatdropped. "Uh, welcome to the P'illo Kingdom. Welcome back for you Luigi."

"Thanks. Sorry 'bout what you just saw. The kid just ticked me off." Luigi said.

"Let's ignore that." Wario waved him off. "For now at least. Kooper and Kolorado, you are the eighth team to arrive!"

Kooper and Kolorado: Eighth Place, 6:03pm

"Luigi and Elvin, that makes you the ninth team to arrive!"

Luigi and Elvin: Ninth Place, 6:03pm

Luigi sighed and headed to the castle, Elvin still on his shoulders, while Wario got out the first aid kit for the Koopas.

Driftwood Cave

Birdo entered the building, noting that everyone else had already finished. Sighing in resignation, she headed up the steps.

Rose Broquet

Toad headed to the machine and retrieved his ticket.

Toad and Toadsworth: Currently in Tenth, 6:09pm

Toadsworth sighed at the situation. "I hate leaving the girls in last, but I don't want to lose either. Come on Toad, let's grab a taxi."

Driftwood Cave

Birdo landed easily with coins to spare. "Heh, what took everyone else so many tries?"

Mushrise Park

Toad arrived first, with Toadsworth lagging behind. "Heh, nice to see you again Wario." Toad greeted.

Wario sighed. "Really guys, I want nothing more but to check you in and go to bed. However, you morons ignored the instructions to go on foot and took a taxi here. For your blatant ignorance, you must pay a thirty-minute penalty. Please go sit on the bench, and DON'T DO ANYTHING."

Toad and Toadsworth: 29 minutes left

Rose Broquet

Birdo ran in, punched the ticket, and left with Toadette, saying nothing.

Toadette and Birdo: Currently in Last, ?:?

Mushrise Park

Toadette and Birdo ran onto the mat, panting and out of breath.

"Welcome to the P'illo Kingdom."

"Thank you." Toadette replied.

"Toadette and Birdo," Wario started, "you are the last team to arrive. However, Toad and Toadsworth got here by taxi, and are serving a penalty." He gestured behind him to the Toads.

"So we're still in it?!" Birdo asked desperately.

"Unfortunately for you, you also incurred a penalty."

"WHAT?!"

Wario ignored the outbursts. "Yes, during the Roadblock. Birdo, the Roadblock stated you must GRAB the coins. You simply used your vortex snout. For that, you have a sixty-minute penalty. Please sit on a seperate bench and wait out your penalty."

Toad and Toadsworth: Seven minutes left

Toadette and Birdo: 59 minutes left

•••

"Toads, your wait is up. Please step onto the mat."

Toad sighed. "Oh thank you Wario!"

"Please, you know I hate kindness." Wario insisted. "Go for a sarcastic remark next time. But anyway, Toad and Toadsworth, you are the tenth team to arrive."

Toad and Toadsworth: Tenth Place, 6:59pm

"Better than you would have done." Toad replied.

"That's more like it!" Wario replied. "Now get in there, and try not to die next leg."

•••

"Toadette and Birdo, come on over."

Birdo looked crushed. "Go ahead. Eliminate us."

Wario ignored her. "Toadette and Birdo, you are the last team to arrive."

Toadette and Birdo: Last Place, 7:51pm

"And you have been eliminated from the race."

Toadette and Birdo: Eliminated

Toadette broke down crying, Birdo rushing to comfort her. "Dang, harsh."

Wario shrugged. "Can't really argue with it. In three segments, you never raced in the top few, got manipulated effortlessly by BJ into wasting time, took several penalties for finishing too slow, and never finished higher than ELEVENTH. It was pathetic, just flat out pathetic. What mistake do you two regret the most?"

"Your existence. May Queen Jaydes have mercy on your soul." Birdo spat, before leading Toadette away.

"I can't say I hated the experience," Birdo stated, "but Wario sure spoiled a great chunk of it. I regret chasing the Fast Forward and cheating the Roadblock, but my snout was a large obstacle I couldn't fix. Can't blame me for that."

"He was rather mean about it, but Wario was right." Toadette reluctantly agreed. "We kind of screwed ourselves. Hopefully I'll have a better experience soon, because I just want this to disappear."

Toadette dried her tears, and headed off, Birdo still cheering her up by her side.

Next time on The Amazing Race: Of Mushrooms and Mayhem!

Teams have a race, within a race!

"Yeehaw!"

The Juniors continue their string of sabotage!

"Wait, what's with this?"

And one alliance breaks down!

"WHAT?!"

Stay tuned!

Author's Notes: Okay, my schedule's screwy. I have schoolwork to deal with, and typing this on an IPhone 4s has a TON of challenges with it. I'm looking for someone to help me, like an assistant. Please private message me if you're interested.