Disclaimer: I do not own Total Drama.
Note: Back from the dead! Well, the story at least, not me. Still, it feels great to be back to this cast and story again. Variety is always nice in writing and after the last arc of TDL3, it feels nice to switch my focus over to something else for a period of time. I'll be sticking with CvC for three whole episodes before I get back to TDL3 for the fourth island, and I'll try to make these episodes enjoyable to read. With every single bit of my university work done, I have nothing but time, after all. Let's just hope I can have motivation as well! Enough yapping from me, time for CvC to make it's return!
Mirror, mirror, on the wall … reflect some light, kay thanks.
The morning sun shone down on the Maclean Academy and the surrounding forest, making for a rather pleasant morning. Chris stood on the front steps of the Maclean Academy main building, with SARA beside him. Chris was reading a law book.
"Fun fact. Statistically, Law is the subject with the most drop-outs per year." Noted Chris.
"I guess the lack of legal force is how you still have a job." Noted SARA.
"You bet. Their loss is my gain." Smirked Chris. "And the loss of the students too, I suppose. Haha!"
"I wouldn't blame them for dropping out." Admitted SARA.
"I would. Quitters are just tacky." Gagged Chris. "But you know what isn't tacky?"
"Against my better judgement … what?" Replied SARA.
"Recaps!" Declared Chris.
With that, Chris turned to face the camera to start the recap, throwing the law book against SARA. The robot made a skull appear on its screen to show its annoyance.
"Last time on Total Drama Cliques VS Cliques the sixteen remaining students did what students are known for. No, not studying you silly gooses! ...They were jerks to each other and buddied up, excluding the people they do not like!" Said Chris cheerfully. "On the Sly Studiers Lola and Orwell bonded over their love of sex which got Lola into the alliance of Kenny and Orwell, with Woody and Dale being roped in. Though Dale has plans of his own in mind featuring Yorkie. Oooo! Oh, and Boonie and Roana are there too, apparently."
"As last season showed, laying low can be an effective strategy." Reminded SARA. "Over on the Dirty Dropouts there was also some stuff going on. Sanjay wanted Trevor gone as the biggest thorn in his side and tried to get others on his side. Trevor and Juliette began bonding and getting closer, which can only mean an alliance these days Also, Patrick and Taylor bonded over a shared hatred of Peach and other annoying things. Also, Fortune got mad at Peach for 'being a bigger gimmick than her', and Yazz talked about creepy shit and death. All she needs to be a fan fav, am I right?"
"Nah, to be a fan fav you gotta be a jerk." Smirked Chris. "How do you think I pull it off?"
"I was gonna say delusion, but let's have it your way." Said SARA, shrugging its metal shoulders. "The challenge was a dual act talent show, and we saw … mixed results. Among other things Trevor almost knifed Juliette, Kenny threw Dale up and down like a ragdoll, Taylor got extremely pissed off playing the ET game and Woody went off script in a roleplay battle with Yorkie. It was very close, but in the end the Sly Studiers won. I guess having an education helps."
"Lamest joke ever." Jeered Chris. "Due to the new immunity conga twist Peach was given immunity by the Studiers which pissed off Taylor. But that left votes going towards Sanjay for being a sneak, Trevor because Sanjay was sneaky to him and Fortune because, I dunno, tits? Either way, it came down to a tie breaker between Trevor and Sanjay where they had to face their fears with a VR helmet each. Sanjay lost and took the Suck of Shame to the Mines of Rebirth! I'd make a joke about it, but I'll stop, just this once."
"Thank you for that restraint." Sighed SARA.
"You're welcome! And now, we're down to fifteen students, none of whom want to be expelled and all of whom want to 'graduate with honours' … they want to avoid being voted off and win the money. Nobody likes my metaphors. But you guys might like what may happen this episode! Like, will Yorkie step it up and stop being a pushover? Will Dale show us a big, devious plan, despite his tiny size? With his swearing rule gone, will Woody plan to keep his other rules in play? Will Fortune outdo Peach at gimmicks and get the screentime and fame she craves? Will Patrick lose his temper again … yeah, probably. Will Yazz be able to better her position, or be as dead as the lyrics in her talent show song? And will the Miners come across any Golden Chris Idols this early?! Find out the answers to some of these, maybe, right here and right now on Total Drama: Cliques VS Cliques!"
"Not to be blamed for instilling a hatred of school into today's youth." Added SARA.
(Theme Song, I Wanna Be Famous)
(Mines of Rebirth)
(Sublevel 1)
Time had passed and by now Finneas and Sanjay had awoken, and were heading through one of the tunnels. Sanjay now had a flashlight in hand to help light the way.
"So, why are we going this way?" Asked Sanjay. "Something good?"
"There was an elevator this way. I've not found any cables to power it up, so it is my guess that one of the other people here may have them already." Explained Finneas.
"That or they suck at finding things." Smirked Sanjay.
"...There is that possibility too." Sighed Finneas. "Let's hope that it will not come to that, shall we?"
"Sure. Buuuut, we also hoped we'd not be voted off, but what do you know, we are." Chuckled Sanjay.
"That may be so, but we are not officially eliminated." Said Finneas firmly. "Come, it's just up ahead."
"So, how are we gonna get the cables off of whoever may have them? A fight?" Guessed Sanjay. "I'm … not a fighter. Uh, not causes I can't! I'm just, like, a fabulous pacifist is all."
"I'll bet." Said Finneas. "A lover, not a fighter huh?"
"I love 'em and leave 'em." Winked Sanjay, raising his eyebrows up and down.
"Are you flirting with me?" Asked Finneas flatly.
"Hmm, am I? I don't know. But I do know how to keep a guy in suspense." Smirked Sanjay.
"Really? How?" Asked Finneas.
Sanjay said nothing more, just smirking.
"Very mature." Drawled Finneas. "Look, if you want to piss around, that's fine, but just make sure you contribute to us finding those Golden Chris Idols. We can't really do anything much until we get on the trail of one of those."
"Hence, the elevator you mentioned." Nodded Sanjay, understanding. "How many floors are there in this mine anyway?"
"I have no idea." Admitted Finneas. "But I'd suspect that The Beast is on the deepest sub-level."
"Beast? What Beast?" Asked Sanjay, raising an eyebrow.
RRRRRROOAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRR!
Sanjay shrieked, jumping into Finneas' arms.
"That beast." Said Finneas nonchalantly. "It sounds horrendous, but even if it is guarding an idol it's no big deal as there are still two others we can go for."
There was a pause.
"...You can get out of my arms now dude." Said Finneas flatly.
"Could, but won't." Smirked Sanjay.
Finneas dropped Sanjay to the ground, not pausing to look at him.
"Keep up." Stated Finneas.
(Confessional: That thing has quite the set of lungs.)
Finneas: Sanjay is just as I had expected … hard to deal with. But that's fine: he's an ally for me, and when we get back to the game I will not have to worry about him being able to outplay me at anything. These factors make it worth having to deal with him being, well, himself.
Sanjay: Shit! Shit! Shit! There's a monster here!? (Sanjay shivers, taking a few deep breaths). Ok, ok, I'm good. I'm cool ...I'll just let it eat Finneas, and hope it'll be full after that.
(Sublevel 1)
The two guys rounded a further corner and arrived at the elevator. Finneas smirked in approval, seeing that it was now powered up. Arthur and Asa lay nearby, both asleep.
"...They seriously slept through that thing roaring like Wishy on PMS?" Said Sanjay flatly.
"I've seen stranger things." Replied Finneas. "Come on, let's get past them and into the elevator, get a lead on them."
"Right behind you." Saluted Sanjay, flamboyant in his hand motion.
The two headed to the elevator and Finneas pressed the button. The doors opened, making a metallic sound as they did so. And yet, neither Asa nor Arthur stirred.
"They sure are deep sleepers." Noted Sanjay quietly.
"Eep! Who said that?" Exclaimed Asa as she sat up.
Asa then turned apathetic again upon seeing Finneas and Sanjay.
"Oh, hi." Greeted Asa. "Hm, that one looks new."
"This one has a name. Sanjay Raj. This one also has a title. Season winner." Smirked Sanjay.
"Oh, cool." Noted Asa. "Hmmm, think the four of us should work together as one?"
"Bad idea. There are only three idols, so one of us might backstab the others and make off with an idol at the first chance to ensure they don't get left out." Replied Finneas.
"...Yeah, I probably would." Admitted Sanjay as he headed into the elevator. "All aboard who is coming aboard."
"We can at least ride the elevator and split up on the next floor?" Offered Finneas.
"Nah, still things to do up here. Plus, we've not seen Goldie since the start, so she may have found something. Maybe. If not, oh well." Said Asa, getting to her feet and stretching out.
"Of course. Take care then. Oh, and mind the hole I marked." Warned Finneas as he entered the elevator.
As the control panel only had two buttons, one for the floor they were on and one for sublevel 2, Finneas wasted no time in pressing the only button he could. The door shut again, and then Finneas and Sanjay went downwards.
Asa watched them go, and then turned to Arthur.
"You got it?" Asked Asa.
"Right out of his back pocket." Smirked Arthur, wide awake and holding the stick of dynamite. "Ok, to the boulder then?"
"To the boulder, and beyond it too." Confirmed Asa. "Though I was not lying when I said I wanted to know where Goldie is. Any ideas?"
"Nothing comes to mind. Maybe she found a secret door or passageway or something?" Shrugged Arthur as he and Asa headed off to the boulder that had blocked their way previously. "I mean, don't tell me you don't think there would be any. Well, that's for later. Let's see what we can find once we blow up the boulder. Oh, and be careful. If my days of playing Tabletop RPG's have taught me anything, it's that cave systems are often full of traps. And with Chris on the staff..."
Asa wordlessly picked up a wooden pole that lay on the ground as they walked by.
"I'll only touch it with a ten foot pole." Smirked Asa.
"Atta girl, that's the right idea." Grinned Arthur.
(Confessional: A twenty foot pole would be better.)
Finneas: So, it seems Arthur and Asa are working together now? Looks like I had the right idea forming an alliance of my own. Now, a new floor means new traps, puzzles and danger … but also, as this is a cave the air will get worse as we delve deeper, so I may need to keep an eye out for a gas mask, or two, depending on how deep it goes. Still, no doubt the Golden Chris Idols are deeper in the Mines, so I'm getting closer. Early days yet, and the merge is generally at twelve … so, I have time to be cautious. I just hope Sanjay will behave and not, you know, be an idiot. (Finneas blinks, seeming to notice something). ...Hey! The dynamite is gone! ...Well, if Arthur and Asa stole it then they'll blow open a new area, so I guess it's the same end result. Urgh, pickpockets…
Arthur: Asa made a good point, where is Goldie? I mean, regardless of what she may have found, she could play between both duos here … never struck me as very loyal. Well, look like sooner or later we'll be going deeper. (Arthur shudders). Deep breaths Arthur, eyes on the prize. Early days, and you won't be trapped like Harmony. No. No.
(Sublevel 4)
Goldie had awoken and, after making sure the ruby was safely in her pocket, swam through the submerged tunnels. It was hard work, even with the flashlight shining the way ahead, but soon enough she passed the area she had found the chest and came out in a new area. She flopped onto dry land with the grace of a dead fish, panting a little.
"Urrrrrgh..." Moaned Goldie. "F*cking water..."
After a while of laying there, getting her breath back, Goldie stood up and looked around the area. She could see a ladder nearby that led up to a metal balcony and a tunnel. The balcony had a visibly lever on it built into the wall. However, the ladder was out of reach, even with the water allowing her to get close. Goldie frowned, kicking the sand in frustration.
"Urrgh, what now?" Muttered Goldie. "A tip would be nice!"
Goldie then spotted something in the sand, After a bit of digging it turned out to be a lever. Having nothing to lose, Goldie flipped it.
"ACK!" Yelped Goldie in discomfort as the lights turned on.
Once the lights dimmed a little, settling into a dull glow Goldie could now see within the water better. A closed drain was in the centre of the room, and there were five levers surrounding it.
"Ok, so I flip all of those and … then what?" Asked Goldie. "Whatever, better get started."
Goldie swam down and flipped one lever, As expected nothing happened. Goldie made to switch the second one, but this then put the first one back into position.
"Fuuuuuuck…" Thought Goldie. "Ok, trial and error. Just like when I was learning how to play poker."
(Confessional: Lever puzzles, angering people since PS1 and earlier.)
Goldie: I've not seen anybody in a few days, and these puzzles are starting to really get on my nerves. But, I have this. (Goldie smugly holds up the ruby). If this is needed to get an idol, then I can take my sweet time, as nobody would be able to get the idol it is needed for as long as I have it. Now I just need to find a way out of here … how many combos could there be for five levers? ...Beats me, as I'm crap at math.
(Maclean Academy)
(Sly Studiers)
The room Lola had spent the night in was dormant. Nobody was there. That changed when the door opened and Dale entered, whistling a tune.
"Ok, where is that thing?" Muttered Dale. "Maybe she left it in here?"
Working quickly and quietly Dale began to look all over the room. In the draws, under the bed and even below a loose floorboard. After opening Lola's suitcase Dale smirked. The paper she had been given by Chris after the barrel challenge was there.
"Ok, let's see what we have got here." Chuckled Dale eagerly.
Dale looked over the clue, and blinked.
"The idol is somewhere tasty?" Muttered Dale. "Oh, of all the anticlimatic shit it could have been. Ok, looks like I'll be having breakfast a tad earlier than usual."
With that, Dale quickly put everything back as it had been and left the room, closing the door behind him.
(Confessional: Incognito!)
Dale: I bet there's a rule against stealing clues, buuuut … I did not steal it did I? I didn't even touch it. (Dale winks). Now … as the Jock idol is gone, in a worthwhile way, I cannot use any of the idols still in the game. Only the relevant team can. Said so on the note that came with the Jock idol. But, butbutbut! ...No rule against me finding one and giving it to somebody who can use it. (Dale leers). Fun!
Yorkie sat under a tree, reading a D&D rulebook. She read it intently, looking engrossed.
"For a game with no rules but one's imagination there sure are a lot of rules, restrictions and regulations." Noted Yorkie. "I mean, some of these probably wouldn't come up in a usual game."
Yorkie shrugged, going back to reading. However, she spotted Lola approaching her and composed herself, making her eyes look just a tad more shy.
"Morning." Greeted Lola as she walked up. "Why are you sitting out her all alone? Most of the team is, well, talking to each other."
"Oh, well, you know … shyness..." Mumbled Yorkie, setting her book down. "But, we're fellow nerdy ladies, so … hi? What's up?"
"Well like you said, we're both nerdy ladies but we never did get to know each other very well on our original team did we." Noted Lola.
"Might be because I tended to just stay in my own company." Admitted Yorkie.
"True. But, we can talk now. I mean, I voted for Finneas and if I had not you'd be kinda the last placed contestant, so maybe we can start there?" Suggested Lola.
"I never did thank you for that, did I? Well, thanks." Nodded Yorkie, smiling. "Regretting it yet? Heheh..."
"Well Patrick kinda hated me for it, but he's on the other team now." Shrugged Lola. "I mean, I had no idea we'd be getting into new teams after that, but even so … well, eh, I get the feeling Finneas would be more willing to backstab."
"He does seem the type, to a degree." Nodded Yorkie. "So, um, what do you think of the team so far? I like Boonie, and Dale is cool too."
"I do love a short guy with a bandana." Purred Lola. "But I'm getting along pretty well with Orwell and Kenny. Orwell is the coolest guy here, ooo yeah, and Kenny is great fun to talk to. If you want any inroads, it may be a good option for you?"
"That sounds really nice." Nodded Yorkie. "I'll try my best to bring it in the next challenge. Might be hard, but I'll, uh, be tough and stuff, you know?"
"It'll be fine." Assured Lola, winking. "I mean, we have Kenny and Woody. They're both built like studly tanks."
"That they are." Agreed Yorkie. "Um, say? Could I ask you a little favour? Please?"
"Oh, sure, what is it?" Asked Lola.
"...Could you get me an apple from the tree? I … kinda can't reach." Blushed Yorkie.
"Can do." Nodded Lola. "Nerd ladies for the win, right?"
Lola, with effort, climbed up the lower branches and picked an apple, tossing it to Yorkie.
"Thanks." Smiled Yorkie.
"Any time." Replied Lola.
(Confessional: An apple a day keeps … uh, some relevant or random thing away.)
Lola: I'm pretty close with Kenny and Orwell, and I zero problems with that. (Lola giggles). But, I'm not gonna sever my nerd connections, you know? Yorkie is pretty passive and quiet so I'd like her on my side. Plus … boy talk, perhaps? (Lola winks).
Yorkie: ...Ok, before coming to this game I did a little research regarding psychology and social perception. See, look at me ... I knew from the moment I decided to audition that there is no way I could ever rely on challenges for safety. So, I knew I had to rely on being seen fondly. And according to the results of two weeks of research and public tests, people generally like cute things. A lot. I mean, show them a cute chick and suddenly they feel less able to eat chicken, for example. Therefore my plan is to exploit the 'cute card'. With my petite frame, shy face and general quiet nature, all I had to do was exaggerate it a little. So far, it seems to be working as Lola just told me she's allied with Orwell and Kenny, wants to work with me and got me an apple. As long as my suckyness at challenges does not become too much of a factor, I think I have a shot. Plus, if I want to make a point I can always do it through role-playing to not be as suspicious. But the first vote shows I have a long way to go yet, so I better make sure I do good these early days.
Boonie and Roana sat near the entrance to their team's dorm building. Roana sipped from a small bottle of booze while Boonie was tinkering with the light device from the talent show the previous day.
"So, managed to fix it yet?" Asked Roana curiously.
"Nope, not yet." Replied Boonie. "The explosion caused damage to both workings and chassis, so it's a matter of time."
"Well, did you find out what caused it to go kablammy?" Inquired Roana.
"As a matter o'fact, I did." Confirmed Boonie. "Some loose wiring, which emitted a spark 'r two, and that caused interior ignition. Lesson learned."
"Well hey, that's great. You won't make that mistake again, right?" Said Roana cheerfully.
"I'd like t'think that." Agreed Boonie. "I sure make a lot of mistakes though in a bunch of areas."
"I always found mistakes more rewarding than basic success." Replied Roana, setting down her bottle. "If you get it right, it's just, well, done. If you make a mistake, you learn something. Mum always said to never be afraid of failure … especially as there are plenty of real things to be afraid of, like chihuahuas."
Boonie paused, looking up at Roana with a puzzled expression.
"You don't wanna know." Assured Roana.
"I'll bet. Always did kinda hate dogs." Admitted Boonie. "So anyway, given how the wires caused a combustion once the dang thing turned on, I'm thinking I can replicate that in a simpler build, an' use it as a bomb or something to make the other team have some challenge troubles. Maybe make it emit smoke or stink or somethin'?"
"Smoke sounds effective." Agreed Roana, picking her drink back up.
The two were quiet for a few minutes, just relaxing. However, Woody soon walked along, whistling a tune.
"Morning Woody." Greeted Roana.
Woody gave a wave as he approached. He then punched Roana in the gut, sending her to the ground.
"Owwww..." Moaned Roana.
Boonie frowned.
"What the hell was that?" Demanded Boonie, scowling in disapproval. "Hitting a women? Shame on you."
"Nothing personal. It's just the rules. I have to hit the first person I see every day." Explained Woody.
"Oh, you have to huh?" Noted Boonie.
Boonie then punched in the shoulder.
"Sh*t!" Winced Woody.
"Guess I had to do that too. It's the rules." Said Boonie, going back to working on his gizmo.
"Oh, very funny." Muttered Woody, holding his head. "Not like I pick who I see first each day."
"Did you ever think of, well, not hitting people?" Suggested Roana, getting back up. "It's a cool revolutionary concept more and more people are trying."
"I always was an old timey fundamentalist." Smirked Woody. "Good luck today guys. I don't know if it's elimination or not, but I want to win regardless. I'm gonna go do a warm-up, so … later."
Woody walked away, whistling to himself again while Boonie and Roana exchanged a glance.
"Fancy voting him off if we lose? I'm mighty tempted … and I wasn't even the one he hit." Said Boonie, frowning a little.
"Well, he is a challenge beast." Reminded Roana.
"So is Kenny, an' I don't rememb'r him hitting anybody in the gut. Least of all a lady." Stated Boonie.
Roana nodded, looking thoughtful.
(Confessional: Muscle-Up!)
Boonie: Call me old fashioned, but I hate seeing a lady get hit. Both cause it just ain't justifiable, and it might hurt them more'n it'd hurt a guy. Might. For real, I'm thinking of maybe talking to Yorkie about voting for Woody. But, I ain't a wave maker, so let's see how the challenge goes first, right?
Kenny and Orwell entered the Mess Hall of the school just as Dale walked out. Both got their breakfast on their trays and sat at the same table.
"So, another day on the new team. What do you make of everybody so far?" Asked Orwell, taking a bite out of an apple.
"Honey, where to begin?" Chuckled Kenny. "You're super sweet, Lola is cool, Yorkie's not terrible, Woody's punches could use a little work, Boonie is a smartie with a nice beard going on, Dale's got some great fashion and Roana … heehee, she can party hardy!"
"Yeah, I feel similar to that. So far, no real objections." Agreed Orwell. "...Wait, Woody's punches could 'use work' … you're critiquing his punches?"
"If I don't, how will he get better?" Giggled Kenny, smirking.
"I'd rather he didn't given he apparently punches the first person he sees every day. And as I would like to get laid and have kids one day … a far ahead day … I'd rather he not punch me in the crotch after getting good at it." Murmured Orwell, taking another bite of his apple.
"Honey, don't worry. I can take his hits pretty easy, tank body and all, so I'm thinking that starting tomorrow I'll just stand outside his door and get hit so nobody else has to." Said Kenny, starting to eat his cereal.
"You assume you'll both be here tomorrow, I see." Noted Orwell.
"Well of course, silly! He's probably too much of a toughie to lose now … and frankly, I don't really have time in my schedule to get voted out, you know?" Chuckled Kenny. "Oh, but it seems that Sanjay did get voted off."
"Yeah, I saw he was gone. Shame really, he seemed cool. Well, that puts the preps down in numbers. Maybe a Roana vote to keep their numbers down?" Suggested Orwell.
"Isn't she a hottie though?" Reminded Kenny. "That is, after all, your type … that, and female."
"I don't like every girl." Insisted Orwell. "Besides, I've more of a thing for Lola."
"Oooo, Orwell's got a girlfriend! Orwell's got a girlfriend!" Sang Kenny.
"Oh, shut up man." Chuckled Orwell. "We're pals, is all. Pals who find each other hot … too hot … but dang it, Genophobia or not, that ass! Heheh! ...That ass, oooo..."
Orwell trailed off, eyes wide and twitchy.
"...Perhaps it would help to think unsexy thoughts, like Chef Hatchet in a mankini." Suggested Kenny.
"I'd rather not die of fright." Smirked Orwell. "Point is, uh, you cool with Lola being in this alliance officially? I kinda said she could be."
"Hon, why would I say no to an extra ally?" Asked Kenny reasonably. "And hey, I got Dale and Woody to listen, so even with Woody voting in the minority as he claims to do, we have half the vote and as long as Woody does not vote for who the other three do, if they teamed up, we'll be fine."
"Well then, looks like we're all set." Noted Orwell, raising a juicebox. "To us!"
"To us!" Agreed Kenny, raising a juicebox as well.
The two sipped deeply for a few moments.
"By the way, girls like eye contact in a conversation. I think Lola may appreciate it." Winked Kenny.
"Eyes don't set me off like tits and ass do, so that's good to know." Nodded Orwell. "But right now I'm thinking more about the game."
"Shocker." Teased Kenny.
Orwell squirted some of the juice into Kenny's face.
(Confessional: A jumpy pervert and a muscular metrosexual. Somewhere in this there's a great metaphor…)
Orwell: A majority alliance this early? Nice! I mean, I trust Kenny and I both trust and feel attracted to Lola … maybe too much, eep … but I do not particularly know Woody and Dale. I think I can talk to Dale, but Woody … well, as long as I'm not the first person he sees in one day, I should be fine. Man, I've been a fan so long, but to be here and actually have things going decently … it's kickass~! Now as long as Fortune's bare tits do not show, I ought to be good. (Orwell smirks confidently, his smirk becoming a whimper as his mind wanders.)
Dale headed to the tree Yorkie was still sitting by. He slowed down and hit behind a bush upon seeing that she was joined by Boonie and the two were talking.
"I'm just saying, I think it'd be a good idea to vote off Woody." Explained Boonie. "I get that he's tough, but he just hit Roana. I'm concerned he may hit you next if he sees you first tomorrow."
"Y-yeah, that does sound bad." Admitted Yorkie, looking rather nervous. "But, is it the right time for that? I mean, sure, we have Kenny too but it's not like me, Lola or Dale are gonna be willing any athletic contests in the near future, is it?"
"That's a point." Admitted Boonie. "I mean, I'm in two minds about it myself, but it's something to consider. I'd rather have some plan than no plan."
"I agree. Guess we'll see how the challenge goes." Replied Yorkie. "So, um, that immunity conga thing … think we ought to talk to Peach in case she has to give it to one of our team at the next immunity challenge?"
"I don't think I have the patience." Admitted Boonie. "But if you do, go ahead. Also, any luck finding the idol?"
"None yet." Stated Yorkie.
"Same, but I'll keep looking. It's gotta be on schoolgrounds … just gotta figure out where. Maybe a disused classroom?" Pondered Boonie.
Boonie walked away, muttering to himself about the idol which left Yorkie all alone. That's when Dale approached her, plopping down next to her.
"Hi!" Greeted Dale.
"Hello." Replied Yorkie. "Um, how are you?"
"Oh, pretty good, pretty good." Chuckled Dale. "A fine day so far. Did some reading, had an early breakfast, found an immunity idol, watched the birds-."
"Wait, what?" Sad Yorkie eagerly. And in shock.
"I watched birds. Gotta say, they looked kinda … dull." Admitted Dale. "Not even mutated."
"No, I mean the immunity idol. You know that." Pouted Yorkie.
"Yeah, I know, just being sly." Smirked Dale. "Check it!"
Dale reached into his pocket and took out the Nerd Immunity Totem, shaped just like a Chris Idol, but green.
"Where did you find that?" Asked Yorkie eagerly.
"Oh, you know, the place where it was hidden." Winked Dale. "Does it matter where it was, since I have it here now?"
"What are you gonna do with it?" Asked Yorkie. "I mean, it's sweet you're willing to show me you have it, but … any plans?"
"I have a perfect plan." Assured Dale.
Dale passed the idol the Yorkie.
"That's my plan." Smirked Dale.
"Whoa, thanks!" Gasped Yorkie. "But, why?"
"Well, each idol can only be used by somebody on the relevant team. I already used the jock's idol to save Woody." Explained Dale. "What would I want it for? Not like I'm allowed to keep I hidden. The rules of a note that came with it stated I had to either leave it, or if I picked it up then I had to give it to somebody on the Nerd team … and who better than a fellow shortie who is soooo cute?"
Yorkie giggled, looking flattered.
"Well, I'll certainly use it wisely." Assured Yorkie.
"I'm sure you will." Agreed Dale, before thinking. "You stupid, gullible c*nt."
"Anything I can do in return?" Asked Yorkie, sitting up straight.
"Just don't vote for me and Woody, and we'll call it even." Said Dale idly.
"Deal." Agreed Yorkie.
(Confessional: Dale sure is good at finding idols he cannot actually use.)
Yorkie: Well, I … did not expect that. But I'm sure gonna take it. It's like I was saying: the way people perceive you does help. Sure, I do agree it'd be better to see people for who they are inside, but in society people will mainly get their first impressions based on how you appear. As I just got an idol … I won't be complaining. Dale seems useful to have on my side, and fun to talk to, so I have no issues with honouring this deal and keeping him safe. As for Woody … if he does not hit me, I'll help him.
Dale: How naive is that girl? Main plan is just to gain her trust with that idol right now as she seems the kind who is easy to lead along, you know? Plus, Woody is my shield so I can't be losing that guy yet. And why would she use it on me? Nerd implies smart, not dumbass. With some allies and not being on anybody's radar right now, I think I'm set until whenever we lose immunity. Oh my, I wonder who will cost us! (Dale giggles, before stabbing a sharp rock into the wall of the confessional). Would not want to be them!
(Dirty Dropouts)
Taylor stood outside the gym, leaning against the wall with her hat tipped over her eyes. She seemed more or less at peace.
"Good morning!" Greeted a cheerful voice.
Taylor silently groaned, wishing she had been allowed to bring her shotgun to the show. She opened her eyes to see Peach's smiling face.
"What?" Grunted Taylor.
"I thought you may be hungry, so I bought you breakfast." Chirped Peach.
Indeed, Peach had a tray piled up with food in her hands.
"...Thanks." Muttered Taylor, picking up an apple and taking a bite out of it.
"Any time! I mean, you look a little bit thin, so I figured you might be super hungry." Continued Peach, setting down the tray carefully and joining Taylor in leaning against the wall.
"...You're fat, and you're clearly hungry." Drawled Taylor.
"High metabolism~!" Sang Peach. "But you mentioned once that you eat animal feed, so I figured you'd want people food. Boy, you sure live a fun life! I'm jealous!"
Taylor briefly wondered if a rock would be enough to knock Peach, or herself, out. Whichever was easier.
"So, get this! I'm thinking that next time we lose, if I still hold the immunity thingy, I'll give it to you." Declared Peach, grinning.
"...Why the f*ck would you do that?" Asked Taylor, raising an eyebrow. "I mean, not that I mind being safe from getting f*cked over, but why?"
"Because we're pals silly!" Said Peach cheerfully.
"No, we are f*cking not." Said Taylor coldly.
"True. We're super pals." Agreed Peach, nodding.
Taylor glanced at the drain pipe. Could she rip it off the wall and bash Peach with it? It sure was tempting…
"You know, actually, I was kinda hoping to ask you for a favour." Admitted Peach suddenly, looking uncertain. "I don't like to ask for too much, but, well, I think I need help."
"What do you need help with? How to be poor?" Drawled Taylor disinterestedly.
"Actually, yes! Whoa, you are so on point!" Exclaimed Peach.
"...Against my better judgement, what the f*ck are you on about?" Groaned Taylor in annoyance.
"Well, I really like the poor lifestyle. You know, roughing it on the farm and all that, buuuut … I've never actually, you know, felt like I am truly pulling it off. But you my friend, you're a real poor person! Could you help me pretty please? I'd make it worth your time?" Offered Peach, very politely.
Taylor looked dumbstruck. Then she looked pissed off. Right before she could punch Peach in the gut however, she paused. A nasty idea entered her mind.
"...Ok, you know what? Fine, I'll help." Smirked Taylor. "Don't vote for me, or Patrick, and we have a deal."
"Yay! I won't let you down!" Promised Peach, beaming. "So, what's the first lesson?"
Taylor smirked, and then grabbed Peach's pendant, taking it from her with one easy tug.
"Heeeeeey!" Whined Peach.
"Poor people do not have jewellery." Stated Taylor smugly. "Grandma didn't, momma didn't, I don't and now you don't either. Don't you just love being poor, hmmm?"
Peach was silent for a moment.
"I do! Thanks Taylor!" Said Peach cheerfully, giving Taylor a hug.
Taylor grunted, firmly pushing Peach off of her.
"Never do that again. Ever." Said Taylor darkly.
(Confessional: Not quite a deal with the devil, but still pretty devious.)
Taylor: Oh yeah, this is gonna be good. (Taylor snickers). She wants to be poor does she? Well, why not give that rich brat exactly what she wants? Momma often said to be careful what you wish for. Peach is gonna be wishing she'd stayed at her cushy home! Let's see how peppy she feels after no luxury, no food, no bathing … heh, this'll teach that brat a good lesson. See how much she idealises poverty after this. Spoiled f*ckface! (Taylor tosses the pendant to the ground with a huff).
Peach: Soooo … I achieve my goal, and I only need to not vote for Taylor or Patrick to get it .. super! I wasn't gonna vote for them anyway. Actually, I have no idea who I am gonna vote for … but, I guess this makes the choice easier! Now, I do wonder what Trevor is thinking as he's the only other prep here … happy thoughts, perhaps?
Patrick was alone in the library. He sat on a sofa, playing a video game. He held a NES controller while using DARA as the console.
Ok, maybe he was not alone, but this was as close as it was gonna get.
He let out a grunt of annoyance, looking irked at the game he was playing.
"Paperboy. The 'Ultimate Classic'. The 'Porting King'. ...The thing that p*sses me off!" Yelled Patrick, before sighing. "Look, the game is ok. Simple controls. Pretty good visuals for its time. An accurate representation of delivering the paper. You know, besides vandalising the non-subscribers being ok, the grim reaper hanging out all casual like … oh, and just about everything! This game … how do people do it?"
Patrick downed some beer from a can and focused on the game again. His character, the Paperboy of course, pedalled down the street. Patrick made him toss papers. On the doorstep. In the window of the red house. In the subscribers window. Patrick cursed loudly, and then crashed into a car.
"F*ck!" Yelled Patrick. "That was totally on the porch you sh*t!"
Patrick grumbled, taking another swig of beer.
"See what I mean? The timing has to be exact. I know it's NES and not that easy, but this game is meant to be for kids! How could it be so unmerciful? This Paperboy is the most tragic character ever: he has this crap job to deal with and he has to go to school afterwards! If I was him, I'd break more than just windows." Muttered Patrick bitterly.
Patrick tried the level again and passed a guy doing roadworks. The primitive graphics made it seem like something else…
"Uhhhh … yeah, could you not?" Muttered Patrick ."Where's the f*cking box?"
Patrick picked it up and looked over the age rating.
"Suitable for kids … this game is ok for kids and not only does it reward vandalism but a guy is jacking it in public. F*cking hell Nintendo." Muttered Patrick. "People at home … don't try Hard Way if you value your sanity or your TV not being smashed."
Patrick let out a scoff, ending the game and taking another swig of beer. As he did so Trevor entered the library and, upon spotting Patrick, made his way over to him.
"I was wondering where you were." Said Trevor as he walked up.
"I'm a Nerd. Where else would I be but the library?" Shrugged Patrick.
"Well, Yorkie is sitting under a tree, Boonie is tinkering with something in the sunshine and last I checked, Lola was talking to Orwell about something. I think it was comic related?" Recalled Trevor. "So, I guess they're Nerds who are not in the library."
"Don't talk smart, it doesn't suit a Prep. It's a Nerd thing." Muttered Patrick.
"I'm not a prep in the traditional sense. I'm more of a 'Prep supporter' given the butler thing." Said Trevor idly, trailing off. "So, what game were you playing?"
"It was more suffering through than playing … but, Paperboy." Said Patrick, throwing the controller at DARA's screen.
"Owwwwwww..." Said DARA dumbly.
"I've played that before." Recalled Trevor. "Kinda hard to aim the papers. I just got bored and smashed everybody's windows."
"Is it even possible to do that with a real life paper?" Asked Patrick.
"You're the smart guy, you figure it out." Replied Trevor "...It'd be fun to try, right?"
Patrick shrugged.
"So, any reason you sought me out, besides idle chit-chat?" Asked Patrick, getting onto his feet.
"I was wondering if you'd be up for an alliance." Offered Trevor. "I mean, I know you and Taylor get along. I get along with Juliette. Funnily enough, they both both get along, somewhat. Easy four votes out of seven right there."
"Sure, that makes sense to me." Agreed Patrick. "Just one little detail first though."
"What is it?" Asked Trevor. "Want me to play a sh*tty game? Bring it on."
"Actually I'd rather you vote out a sh*tty player." Explained Patrick. "Get Peach to f*ck off and the deal is settled, one hundred percent."
Trevor made a thoughtful sound.
"Well, it would put me in power with you, but … the Preps are down in numbers, partly due to me I'll acknowledge. If I did that, it'd be kinda bad in the long term." Stated Trevor. "I mean, would you vote off any of the other Nerds if they were on this team if our roles were reversed?"
"In a heartbeat." Said Patrick honestly. "Not much reason not to."
"If nothing else, I can admire you being upfront." Replied Trevor. "Look, uh, I'm not committing to that demand. Not yet at least. Could you give me some time to think that over? After the four way elimination and yesterday's vote it's probably reward today."
"Eh, whatever, fine. I'm in no hurry." Shrugged Patrick as he picked the controller back up. "Dumbass, play Pacman."
DARA made a derpy sound in response and loaded the Pacman game on its screen. Trevor looked stunned.
"...They tried to sell that port?" Said Trevor, recoiling slightly.
"F*cking shameful." Agreed Patrick, swigging more beer.
(Confessional: I'm sure the company had a plan. Maybe.)
Patrick: I may not really like the other Nerds much, but as much as I'd be fine voting them off if I had to, I'd rather the Nerd players keep high in numbers. I mean, I am The Nerd, but it's nice to have people here worse at sports than I am, for ego's sake. If I can squash the numbers of another clique, it'll help. Besides, who the f*ck would want Peach to stick around anyway? Trevor? Uh, no.
Trevor: On one hand, voting for Peach would get me in a good spot, and I don't think Juliette would be having an issue with it. On the other hand, I should ask for her opinion as she's my closest friend here, besides Roana. See, I'm thinking … Patrick wants me to vote off a fellow Prep, but once I do I cannot take it back but he could easily withdraw support and leave me for dead. Making a demand in our first ever real conversation … I don't truly trust him. I'll have to treat this team as walking through a minefield, in heels, for the next few days. On misstep, and my chances of winning go boom. Just like that time the triplets were playing with grenades … very long story.
Juliette giggled eagerly to herself, jugging a few round objects. On closer examination they were lit cherry bombs.
"Hot potato! Hot potato!" Giggled Juliette.
After a few more moments of this Juliette tossed the cherry bombs away. Once they were barely out of harmful range they exploded, the sparks almost hitting Juliette. The ginger girl fanned herself, looking pleased.
"Whoa, what a rush!" Exclaimed Juliette. "Not bad! Not bad at all!"
"Corrr! You nearly blew your hands off!" Exclaimed Yazz, approaching Juliette. "Have you no sense of safety? No fear of death?"
"What fun is life without a little risk of the opposite?" Asked Juliette, smirking. "Danger is my bitch, and it knows it."
"Do you not fear the reaper?" Asked Yazz.
"I'd uppercut him." Nodded Juliette.
"Any fear of nukes?" Continued Yazz.
"Pffft, I'd welcome the chance to outrun one." Chuckled Juliette.
"Zombie apocalypse while you're covered in steak sauce?" Asked Yazz eagerly.
"Boom, headshot!" Beamed Juliette.
"...Where have you been all my life?" Whispered Yazz. "That's hardcore! You make a game out of cheating death and doom … holy sh*t, cool!"
"Oh, well, I'm not that cool." Said Juliette faux modestly. "I mean, when I juggle chainsaws they're not even set on fire or anything."
"Oh, too dangerous for you?" Giggled Yazz
"Oh, you are on." Smirked Juliette. "Name a challenge, and I'll pass it, easy."
"Give me time. I know so many ways to die! Ways you can defy!" Grinned Yazz. "We should form an alliance! Right now! I mean, you know, I kinda don't talk to Fortune as much as I could because of how seriously she takes her gimmick, and I do not want to mess with her mofo mojo, and Arthur was my best friend and he's kinda dead right now, sort of, so … alliance, pleeeease?"
"Sure thing!" Agreed Juliette. "I'm a dare devil. You're the kind who knows all about the most dangerous deaths and is as morbid as granny! Put here there!"
Juliette held out her petite hand for a shake, and Yazz eagerly shook it.
"So, FYI, I voted for Trevor last night." Admitted Yazz. "Sorry 'bout that."
"Ah, it's fine. It's the game." Assured Juliette. "Don't apologise to me. Apologise to the kids."
"Kids? Oh, don't tell me Trevor is a kiddie fav! Wasn't Owen enough?!" Moaned Yazz.
"He looks after three young kids. You, little missy, almost broke their young hearts." Teased Juliette.
Yazz looked horrified.
"Oh no! How could I be so unknowingly evil! Their hearts almost broke, with massive internal bleeding which would make them shrivel up like dead prunes, and then die!" Wailed Yazz. "...So, no voting Trevor then?"
"Yep." Confirmed Juliette.
"Oh, so we are?" Asked Yazz. "Ok."
"No, we're not." Giggled Juliette. "I do not know who we'll vote for. But I do know one thing."
"What's that?" Asked Yazz curiously.
"I wanna continue my talent show act that got tragically cut short. Throw knives at me!" Pleaded Juliette.
"I just can't say no to a dare devil." Said Yazz, smiling goofily. "Machete or cleaver?"
(Confessional: Maybe just a butter knife…?)
Juliette: Man, the oddballs had all the coolest people, didn't they? Hmmm … wonder what Fortune is like? My hope is that she's fun and full of life. Judging by her talent show performance, I'd say she is. (Juliette snickers). I'm sorry if that's gross, but I can't not snicker when I think about it. Some things are just naturally funny and or cool, like exploding clowns. Now enough talk, where's BARA? I'm looking for a tussle!
Yazz: I have been kind of in the market for more allies, as unlike Fortune I can't use my titties to do the talking, so this is great. Juliette seems fun and sweet, and I can respect and admire her utter lack of regard for rules and safety. I mean, I'm merely cheerfully resigned to doom. Juliette seeks it out, and then p*sses on it … I bet the grim reaper must feel pretty darn embarrassed! (Yazz giggles)
At the open front gates of the Maclean Academy Fortune sat alone. She looked out into the morning forest, seeming attentive.
"Birds. Birds. Birds." Chanted Fortune to herself. "And yet, not a worm to be seen … cause the damn birds ate them all! Boy, nature is cruel. One moment you're riding high in one pierce … next moment you're crushed to bits in the jaws of something bigger. A metaphor for high school if ever I saw it."
Fortune continued to sit in place, birdwatching. As she did so something resembling Bigfoot stepped out of the forest. Fortune shook her fist at it.
"Begone from this school Bigfoot, you damn dirty ape!" Yelled Fortune. "I'm getting the screentime! Not you!"
Bigfoot looked dejected and sadly walked away. Fortune nodded in satisfaction to herself.
"That. Will. Teach. Him." Declared Fortune. "...Oh yeah, for those unaware, speaking a bunch of small sentences gives you more visibility. I think so. Survivor fans say so anyway, and if you can't trust them, who can you trust?"
"You know, that's a very good point." Agreed Peach as she walked up. "I mean, I once trusted wikipedia to be honest about things, but then it lied to me. I mean, can you imagine?"
"...OMG! That must mean that Fosley is wikipedia!" Gasped Fortune.
"Mindblown." Said Peach in wonder. "So, what are you doing out here by yourself? ...Do I smell?"
"I'm trying to birdwatch, and be a gimmick. A crazy bird lady!" Declared Fortune. "Oh ... but I can't do that now, can I? You're been stealing my thunder, lady! You're being the biggest, weirdest gimmick ever! That's my shtick!"
"There can be two gimmicks right?" Said Peach, smiling. "I mean, you can be the bird lady. I'll be the other thing. No idea stealing!"
"Yeah, but you're so … you … people are gonna look at you more than at me!" Pouted Fortune, before bouncing her boobs a little. "Even these aren't gonna give me the advantage, because for all the size of my bust, your butt is just the same."
"I dunno, your boobs seem pretty nice to me." Assured Peach. "You just keep being loud and I'm sure you'll get the attention you want."
"I hope so. This show is my platform to being the next household name!" Exclaimed Fortune. "I just gotta hope I don't get the Sadie Edit. ...Idea, idea, idea!"
"You want us to dress like Sadie?" Guessed Peach.
"No! Better! Ok, the fact is that I can't stand you, and you can't stand me." Began Fortune.
"I actually think you're alright." Admitted Peach.
"Oh, why thank you very much. Now! There's only room for one obnoxiously loud gimmick in this school, and I am sure the audience will agree they can only take one!" Declared Fortune. "There is only one way that we can settle this!"
"...I'm sure anything I would guess would be way off, so what do you have in mind?" Asked Peach curiously.
"A Gimmick-Off!" Declared Fortune. "Starting at the challenge, we'll have a battle of no-wits to show just which of us is the true gimmick in this school! Winner keeps their gimmick."
"And the loser?" Asked Peach with wide eyes.
"They have to … play just like everybody else." Said Fortune in a pained whisper. "No stand-out moments at all!"
"Yikes! Worse than the DMV!" Exclaimed Peach. "...You're on, gal pal!"
"And you, gal pal, are off! Off the radar that is, as it'll be all mine!" Grinned Fortune.
Both girls glared coldly at each other, trying their hardest to not start giggling.
(Confessional: ...Nah, I'd still call the DMV worse.)
Peach: Well, between poor lessons from Taylor, having to figure out who to vote for and now this gimmick-off with Fortune … I sure have my hands full! But, um … just one teensy question. What makes me a gimmick, exactly? I think this is one of those many times the answer is obvious and I am not seeing it. (Peach giggles) Oh well! Time for brekkie … again!
Fortune: ...Please look at me. (Fortune puts on watery, cute eyes).
Taylor sat on the sofa in the central room of the Dropouts' Dorm Room, casually playing with a yo-yo. Patrick arrived sitting down next to her in a huff.
"You look pissed." Noted Taylor. "What's up with you this time?"
"Like you're one to talk." Muttered Patrick. "Basically, get this. I was walking along quietly, and I saw Peach and Fortune."
"That'd p*ss anybody off." Agreed Taylor.
"It gets worse. They have decided to have a 'gimmick-off' to see who is the better gimmick. What a sh*tload of f*ck." Cursed Patrick bitterly. "Why would anybody agree to that? What even are those girls?! Lousy hunks of sh*t, that's what..."
Taylor groaned, looking pained.
"Oh f****ck..." Moaned Taylor. "And the worst part is how Peach is technically allied with us now. Oh dammit, the f*ck have I set myself up for? Urrrgh, why did I not just do the smart thing and break her legs?"
"...Peach is allied with us?" Said Patrick flatly. "I see a dozen things wrong with that sentence."
"I don't even think it's even that. Literally, I just agreed to 'teach her to be poor' or some bullsh*t like that if she won't vote for us, and she agreed." Shrugged Taylor, playing with the yo-yo again. "I'm thinking I'll show her glamorous things like a lack of food, no bathing and more. Heh, see how much she glorifies poverty with that sh*tty smile on her face after that."
Patrick listened to this, and then a smirk appeared on his face.
"That might just be the best plan I've heard all season. Maybe I can help out? The poor cannot afford modern games, so I can get her to sit through some of the worst games I can possibly think of. See how much she giggles after that." Said Patrick with a satisfied grin.
"I don't even have a TV f*ckface, and I doubt many 'poor' people do." Said Taylor flatly.
"And you think she knows that?" Said Patrick dully.
"Eh, point." Shrugged Taylor. "Three days tops, she'll quit the show and run home crying."
"Thank f*cking Atari." Said Patrick, swigging some beer. "Ahhhhh."
"You swear, scheme and drink like a f*cking wretch." Noted Taylor.
"Yeah, so?" Muttered Patrick. "Got a problem with The Nerd?"
"Nah, Just saying if I wasn't gay I'd totally wanna go out with you. Pass us a bottle?" Requested Taylor, smirking.
"Get your own." Stated Patrick.
Taylor scowled.
"Also, we might be getting an alliance with Trevor and Juliette. I told Trevor to vote off Peach if he is serious. Guess we won't have to put up with her for very long either way." Added Patrick, swigging more beer. "Such an ass."
"You're amazing." Said Taylor sincerely. "Heh, and it's not even my birthday yet. Good sh*t."
(Confessional: Drunk Taylor is a more destructive force than whatever it was that killed the dinosaurs.)
Taylor: (She shrugs). Like f*ck I'm gonna be annoyed at losing somebody I don't like and Patrick getting an alliance together. I don't really see a downside here. He does the brainy stuff, I do the stuff that involves hitting and yelling. Easy plan.
Patrick: It's odd to say it, but being the only nerd on this team is really working out for me. I'm a lone wolf after all … Patrick Wolfe, in fact. (Patrick smirks).
(School Basement)
After being informed of the challenge by the robots the fifteen students found themselves in the basement. After passing by an empty room with some tools kept within it, they entered the main area of the basement. It split off into two dark pathways leading further ahead. In the current area were two deactivated light emitting devices (basically, large flashlights), with the general area illuminated by SARA's screen. With the teams gathered and in position, Studiers on the left and Dropouts on the right, Chris began to speak.
"Welcome to your next challenge students. For those on the Sly Studiers who have not noticed yet, Sanjay is no longer with us." Announced Chris.
"Hmmm." Noted Roana. "...Guess he didn't beat Wishami's record then?"
"I wonder how that will effect the other team?" Pondered Yorkie to herself.
SARA displayed a lightbulb on its screen and Chris resumed talking.
"Today's challenge is going to give you something to reflect on. In fact, it may also be rather dark." Smirked Chris. "With those puns said, today you will be doing a light reflection puzzle. Those flashlights over there will turn on at my mark. Each team must trek into the darkness and use the mirrors to guide the light beam along the course. There is only one way to do it; you'll know you've done it right if the dim lights along each section of the course turn on. However, there will be twists!"
SARA's screen showed a spiked pit trap.
"Oh dear." Gulped Lola.
"Are they gonna be poison tipped?" Asked Patrick dryly.
"Heh, I'm spike proof." Said Woody with a smirk.
"Really? 'Cause your ego is swelling like a balloon." Said Taylor flatly.
"SARA, knock it off." Muttered Chris. "No, the traps are things like trip wires and … well, I wouldn't want to spoil the surprise! Heheh!"
"Oh, but be warned, the light beam is searing hot, so you'd do well not to touch it." Warned SARA.
Chris gave SARA a dirty look.
"We had to tell them that one. You know that we did." Stated SARA.
"Fiiiiine." Groaned Chris. "To win the challenge, just make the beam of light make contact with the last mirror in the final room. Do that and the door to the finish line opens. First team through it wins!"
Chris then looked towards Peach.
"As I said yesterday, next time your team, or the Sly Studiers, lose then you have to pass that over." Reminded Chris.
Chris paused.
"But, that will not be happening today because this is a reward challenge! Nobody goes home!" Exclaimed Chris. "However, you'll still want to try your hardest because you'll be playing for some arcade game cabinets! Five games, the names of which I shall keep secret, will be free to play for the rest of the contest, as long as you are not voted off at least. Who knows, maybe it'd be worth your while to get a high score? Eh, probably not, but it's still the reward whether you like it or not. Ok, places everyone!"
The campers got themselves grouped together at their team's own starting line, ready to get going.
"Three." Began Chris.
"Two." Added SARA.
"One!" Said Chris, grinning.
SARA emitted a ringing bell round effect, and the challenge began. The light emitters turned on, shining a beam of searing light into the two rooms ahead and each team charged ahead, ready to give it a solid go.
Would anybody get lost in the dark?
(Confessional: Yes.)
Fortune: The gimmick-off is on!
Juliette: This sounds fun! Always did rather like the darkness: not only is the night sky beautiful, but the increased risk of stepping into something nasty … I have a feeling I'm gonna remember this challenge!
Patrick: game cabinets, huh? Yeah, I'm winning this. I mean, f*ck, what sense would it make if I didn't? I'm a gamer, and The Nerd, assholes. Besides, might be fun to make a game out of seeing how the team high scores rank up. Just gotta hope nobody screws up the challenge … burning light? Ok, basic f*cking logic, Peach is not allowed to handle the direction of it. Nor is Juliette. Or Yazz. In fact, just leave it to me.
Orwell: Soooo, me and some girls in the dark, huh? (Orwell giggles before shaking his head, yes darting about). Moving on! Um! Uh! ..Ok, I'm good now. Anyway, this challenge seems more or less ok. It'll take a steady hand, and I think this team has the advantage there. Just gotta make sure nobody triggers a trap … plus, burning light? I sometimes like hot stuff, but that's a bit too much for me. But, if anybody likes it, I won't kink-shame.
Yorkie: Hmmm, perhaps a slight showing of nervousness in the dark will assist my image? Then again, I don't wish to push it. Well, I do have a very steady grip and hold, and that will be useful in this challenge. Though I must wonder … what is the practicality of a school basement that has branching pathways and unreachable balconies?
Kenny: Um, sweeties? I'm a little bit scared of the dark. Eheheheh. Well, hopefully that smartie Boonie can invent a flashlight, huh?
(Mines of Rebirth)
(Sublevel 1)
Arthur and Asa approached the boulder and glanced at each other.
"You're calmer than I tend to be, so I'll trust you with the dynamite." Stated Arthur, taking a step back.
"Find by me." Nodded Asa. "After the explosion we'll stand back for a minute or two so the dust clears and we won't inhale it."
"Safety first." Agreed Arthur.
Asa approached the boulder and set down the dynamite in the specified area. After lighting it she sprinted back and ducked behind a mine kart with Arthur.
BOOM!
The boulder was blown to bits and the dust slowly settled. Once it was all clear Arthur and Asa walked forth into the newly revealed room. It was dusty and full of cobwebs, and was only lit by two lanterns. The two teens shone flashlights around and then spotted something else. Between the lanterns was a locked chest, clearly important.
"Think an idol is in that chest?" Asked Arthur.
"Possibly, but it seems too easy." Admitted Asa. "Maybe it's something to hep us reach an idol."
"In any case, let's grab it." Grinned Arthur as he walked forth. "Result!"
"Wait! What about the-." Began Asa.
A pit trap opened beneath Arthur, dropping him down with a yell into the darkness. The pit trap then closed itself back up.
"-Possible traps." Winced Asa. "...I swear, he tells me to watch for traps and then stumbles into one. It's why I have the wooden pole. Maybe he just got excited? Good thing I'm always calm..."
Asa began to prod at the pit trap repeatedly to try and get it open, but it seemed to be sealed shut.
"Looks like I can't follow after him this way." Noted Asa. "Better get a move on and find another way around."
Setting her pole down Asa approached the chest. She attempted to lift it, but it seemed to be stuck in place. The padlock, upon closer inspection, did not have a keyhole but rather five slots with a number in each. The numbers could also be changed via rotation to be anywhere from one to nine.
"Oh, a number puzzle. Great. B minus math grade, do not fail me now." Muttered Asa. "Oh, what have we here?"
On the wall was an inscription. Asa shined her flashlight towards it and the letters glowed, making the message very easy to read.
-To find the gem of light find the correct sequence. All numbers relate to each other. The first number is a quarter of the fourth number. The second number is double the first number. The third number is both the first and second numbers added together. The fifth number is half of ten of the first number. What is the code? ...Besides frustrating?-
Asa paused. She sat on her rump on the treasure chest and pondered to herself.
"Hmmmm … that sounds complicated." Muttered Asa.
Asa stopped. She counted on her fingers and let out a light giggle.
"Sounds complicated, but it really is not." Smirked Asa.
With that, Asa put in the code (12345) and the padlock opened. With that, Asa opened up the chest and reached inside, taking out a small Topaz and a scrap of paper. The paper had a single sentence on it.
-Use Topaz to get gold-
Asa nodded to herself, pocketing the topaz. With that, she picked up the pole and flashlight, jogging back the way she had came.
(Confessional: Pit traps, annoying adventurers since … I dunno, years ago I guess?)
Asa: I'm playing for myself in these mines. If I see an idol, it's mine. But … with Arthur's phobia of caves, I cannot in good conscience leave him. Besides, he's my friend too. Hopefully he just dropped down to the second floor and I'll see him once I get the elevator down to the next sublevel. And if not … well, hopefully I'll find him soon. Hopefully Chris learned from what happened to Harmony and won't have a pit trap lead to a two person puzzle. (Asa looks worried).
(Sublevel 2)
The elevator to the second sublevel had arrived. Finneas and Sanjay stepped out, and shone their flashlights around the area. This sublevel was darker than the last one, and the air felt slightly staler, but not enough to cause unpleasantness. Nearby were two creates, one with flashlights and one with rations. Finneas began to stock up while Sanjay looked around the vicinity. Two tunnels led off: one just ahead that disappearing into the gaping jaw of darkness, and one to the left that was sealed off by bars. There were two slots in the barred gate, like something once fit in them. Possibly something flat and square? There was also a sign next to the gate showing a ruby, topaz, sapphire, emerald and amethyst.
"Finneas, I found something." Called Sanjay.
Finneas ran over and look at the gate.
"Well, in the same way the key items on sublevel 1 were the dynamite and cable, it looks like were looking for two square objects for this door, and five gems for whatever lies beyond it." Noted Finneas, making note of this in his notebook. "Well, it looks like there is only one way that we can go now, so let's move out."
Finneas walked down the tunnel, Sanjay following close behind.
"Soooooo … why did you get voted out?" Asked Sanjay curiously. "Play too hard too fast?"
"Not really. Just a case of being physically weak on an already weak team, and Yorkie messing with the head of one of my ex-allies. Just bad luck." Muttered Finneas.
"Somebody seems a little sore." Teased Sanjay.
"Oh, and you wouldn't be?" Scoffed Finneas. "Losing is bad in general. Last place is worst of all. Besides, I deserve to be there more than Yorkie does. But, I digress. I'm not letting emotion ruin my game. ...So, why did you get voted out?"
"People saw me as a huge threat and acted accordingly." Replied Sanjay.
Finneas actually laughed. He laughed a lot. Sanjay frowned.
"...Ok, fine. They didn't trust me. Like anybody can truly trust somebody after five days." Muttered Sanjay. "I mean, just because I allied with everybody on the Preps they say I'm a snake."
"Well, are you a snake?" Asked Finneas.
"Oh, like you wouldn't believe." Smirked Sanjay. "Say, you seen Goldie anywhere? We kinda, sorta, slightly got along and had the same strategy somehow so maybe she'd help us out?"
"I've actually not seen her at all while I've been here. I woke up after I slept off my elimination and she was gone." Admitted Finneas. "Well, we ran into Arthur and Asa, so we'll probably find Goldie too. That's not important right now anyway; we have to get as much progress done as we can in the early rounds before more people are here."
"But won't we just be making it easy for the people who come here later if the puzzles are solved and the traps are sprung?" Asked Sanjay.
"...Well, would you rather just sit here and do nothing?" Asked Finneas dryly.
"I wouldn't call being adorable nothing." Said Sanjay, putting his arms behind his head. "Me being the adorable one that is."
"I'm sure your mother would agree." Drawled Finneas. "Oh, mind your step."
"Whoa!" Yelled Sanjay.
CRASH!
Sanjay had tripped over a rock and knocked into a minecart on some tracks. The force of this sent the minecart forwards and down the sloped incline where it crashed into a wooden barrier up ahead, clearing the way forwards.
"...On second thought, good thing you were clumsy." Mused Finneas as he continued ahead.
Sanjay made a displeased groaning sound.
(Confessional: I'm just surprised there was no cave-in.)
Finneas: Hmmm, Sanjay might be more useful than I thought. Looks like it was a good idea to slow my pace to ensure I had somebody on hand to work with. I'm gonna need that support now that there's a whole new sublevel of traps and puzzles to deal with. That gate is clearly very important … what could be beyond it? My guess, a Golden Chris Idol. Wonder what the gems could be sued for though…
Sanjay: Owww, my head… (Sanjay groans). And yes, the state of my head and furthermore my handsome face is important enough to justify a confessional about it.
(Sublevel 4)
Goldie had so far been unable to solve the puzzle. For every lever she pulled, one went back to normal. With an irritated scowl, she stormed back onto dry land, thinking what she was meant to do next.
"Is there something I am missing here?" Asked Goldie out loud, her eye twitching. "Give me a sign!"
After some thought, Goldie resumed digging in the sand in case something else was hidden down there. After a few minutes had rolled by, Goldie found a spare flashlight battery and a pair of goggles.
"This might help me see in the water better." Noted Goldie.
After putting the goggles on Goldie swam underwater again. Now that she could see properly under the water she saw there was text on the levers. The flashlight caused the text to glow. Goldie then saw that each lever had a math puzzle on it.
1+4
3-2
4-2
1+3
7-3
"...Hey, these all add up to numbers one through five." Noted Goldie. "Aha! I bet I have to pull the levers in that order! ...If this is wrong, heads are gonna roll."
Goldie followed her hunch and pulled the levers in the order of their math equations. As soon as she pulled the fifth lever more water was deposited into the room from pipes in the walls. After swimming to the surface Goldie saw that the water level now reached up to the ladder.
"Haha! Muy awesome!" Cheered Goldie as she swam to the ladder.
It was slippery and awkward work, but Goldie managed to climb up the ladder and reached the balcony. After hauling herself on and spending a few minutes catching her breath, the casino gal eyed the lever.
"Let's see what this one does." Mused Goldie as she flipped the final lever in the room.
Instantly the drain in the centre of the room opened, and the water all began to fall through it a lower area of the mines. Pretty soon the water was all gone, save for some leftover drops. The ladder extended itself down to ground level.
"Ok, that happened." Noted Goldie, shrugging. "Eh, if it means less swimming than whoop-de-doo. Let the water be somebody else's problem. I got an idol to find, and a game to win."
With that, Goldie headed off into the tunnel leading from the balcony and towards wherever it would lead to.
(Confessional: It leads to more traps, probably.)
Goldie: Nowhere to go but forwards it seems. That's fine by me, as I want to leave this piece of sh*t area far behind me. I got the ruby, so no reason to go back. Wish I had another person to talk to though, if only so I could throw some shade around. Always cheers me up. (Goldie smirks).
Next Time: The light puzzle keeps both teams busy, up to and including some students having articles of clothing burned off! In the end, one team wins!
