Disclaimer: I do not own Total Drama.
Note: Ten episodes! Milestone! We're at the point of the story where things are really gonna start picking up … well, hopefully. Still, I'm loving how this story is turning out thus far, and judging by the reviews I'd say that you guys are as well. Still, it has been said that some of the starz are … not shining brightly, meaning not doing much. I won't shuffle the boot order at all as it's been set for a long time, but I will see what I can do to try and make things more interesting. After all, this is supposed to be the ultimate send-off to my earliest characters. Let's hope I can keep to that goal. Let's see if I can manage it in this chapter!
Raise your hand if you love being tied up!
(Challenge Field)
The challenge was almost ready to start. The campers had been tied up with rope and placed at various sections of the course, waiting to be untied by the person preceding them. Right at the starting line, and soon to be tasked with untying themselves, were Quarla, Wallace and Imanda. Eddie sat off to the side at the base of a tree, wearing a chicken hat.
"Not gonna lie, this is making me raise my eyebrows a little." Admitted Eddie. "Just saying."
The hosts stood off to the side, and Chris took out a starter pistol.
"So, you guys all snug and tied up?" Asked Winnie.
"Are you blind?" Grunted Quarla. "Get on with it, I got pillows and blankets to win."
"This is gonna be fun." Smirked Wallace cockily, before adding. "Um, not in that way."
"Oh, you." Giggled Imanda. "I'm 'knot' gonna allow jokes like that!"
"Just start the challenge." Grunted Quarla.
Imanda frowned at Quarla in disapproval.
"Ok then, get ready!" Exclaimed Winnie. "Three..."
"Two..." Droned Xaria.
"One." Grinned Chris.
BANG!
(Confessional: All tied up at the moment.)
Eddie: I gotta admit, this challenge is really awkward to look at. I mean, me and Sasha are not into this kind of stuff. I know, I know, overthinking it … but come on, it's all there!
The instant the challenge started the three began to squirm around in great effort to untie themselves. Quarla was vicious and scrappy, trying to tear the rope apart, while Imanda was more precise and meticulous, having done this before.
However, Wallace just smirked and activated the every-tool from within his binds. Instantly a sort of light sabre pierced the ropes and tore them apart.
"Mwahahahaha! Later bondage buddies!" Cackled Wallace as he ran off at full speed, jogging down the course as quickly as his legs could carry him. "Spoiler alert, the Silver Swordfish will win the pillows and blankets!"
"Hosts! Wallace cheated!" Complained Imanda, almost out of her rope.
"Kill him!" Grunted Quarla, tearing her ropes off bit by bit.
"No rule against it. We'll allow it." Stated Chris, chuckling.
"We?" Pouted Winnie.
"He is right." Admitted Xaria. "No rule against bringing in outside sources as long as they are not drugs or guns."
Imanda and Quarla could only sigh and growl respectively, but nonetheless they kept up the pace on untying themselves. Soon enough Imanda was free and with a cheer she ran off down the course after Wallace. She had ground to make up, and was ready to give it her all.
"Better run Wallace! I once won a long distance badge!" Called Imanda teasingly.
Up ahead Wallace seemed to run even faster.
Quarla meanwhile grunted in annoyance at being last and then tore off the last of her ropes. With a crack of her knuckles she charged after her opponents.
"Get back here!" Yelled Quarla. "You might want to think if it's worth beating me, because I am a sore loser … and you'll be an even sorer winner!"
Imanda yelped and ran even faster, not wanting Quarla to catch up with her.
(Confessional: Would she hit a girl with glasses on? … Oh yeah, dumb question.)
Wallace: With myself free, my plan is very simply. I just hand my every tool to the next person, and they hand it to the next person and so on until we win the challenge. Easy! Oh, how I love loopholes!
Quarla: I'm against two dorks, neither of whom are tough in any way. I've got this.
Wallace ran fast. He had a confident look on his face.
"Legal cheating. Works every time." Chuckled Wallace.
Wallace then halted when he was what was ahead of him.
"Aw crap." Muttered Wallace.
A pit of mud was set up, filled with angry snapping turtles. A sign was set up to say going around it was forbidden.
"… This is gonna suck." Sighed Wallace.
With a deep breath, Wallace ran through the mud, yelling a war cry as he went. Sure, he could have used his every-tool to blast away the turtles, but Wallace was a lover of animals, so he held his fire.
Consequently, a turtle bit him on the ass.
"AAAAARRRGGGGGHHHH!" Screamed Wallace, his pace quickening due to the pain.
He then fell over.
Wallace groaned as he got back to his feet and made his way further to the other side of the large mud pit.
Further behind Imanda made her way through the mud with confidence. She had done obstacle courses with the girl scouts, and though angry turtles had not been involved, Imanda felt good about her chances.
"This is pretty easy." Noted Imanda. "Go girl scout!"
Imanda laughed and ran faster. However, fate had other plans for her … plans that become apparent when a turtle leapt up and bit Imanda on her bottom.
"… AAARRRRGGGGGHHH!" Screamed Imanda. "Ow! Ow! Ow!"
Imanda gritted her teeth in pain, a tear exiting her eye, but even so she forced herself to continue the challenge.
"I hate turtles now..." Muttered Imanda.
In last place, and closing in on Imanda, Quarla had five turtles biting her but was not slowing down at all. Perhaps pain did not bother her? Or maybe the thought of victory motivated her.
"Ignore the pain. Spider is just up ahead." Muttered Quarla.
Oh wait, it was sociopathic intent that motivated her. My mistake.
A turtle prepared to jump at Quarla and bite her. Quarla snarled at the turtle. It looked scared, and began to retreat … very slowly, given it was a turtle.
"Yeah, you better run. Sort of." Muttered Quarla as she ran on, ignoring all of the pain that she felt.
(Confessional: Shell shocked!)
Wallace: The things I do for this team, I swear. I sure hope the pillows and blankets are gonna be worth the chunks of my villainous ass that are now missing. If only I had a jet-pack or a teleporter on me, but no, I left them at home. Urgh.
Imanda: … Anybody got some booty band-aids? (Imanda winces)
At the other side of the mud pit, Spider, Hector and Yessica were all tied up, waiting for their team mates to arrive.
"I don't like this." Murmured Spider.
"It's not so bad." Assured Yessica. "When you get used to not being able to move, it's kinda relaxing."
"No comment." Added Hector.
Yessica pouted.
"I didn't mean it like that." Insisted Yessica.
"No, it's not the fact I'm tied up. It's that Quarla is coming and I am tied up. She could do anything she wants to me and I'd be unable to stop her." Explained Spider. "Oh geez..."
"Sorry to hear that." Winced Yessica.
"Indeed, sounds painful. But, it also confirms that Quarla is not a threat to winning this game." Noted Hector. "Ah, here we go."
Wallace ran up, pressing a button on the every-tool as he moved. The every tool extended a large pair of scissors.
"Before anybody says anything, no, this tool is not cheating." Stated Wallace as he worked on snipping the ropes binding Hector.
"Careful." Muttered Hector nervously.
Wallace was able to untie Hector without incident and passed him the every-tool.
"Use this to untie everybody else." Stated Wallace. "Press the green button twice and the yellow button once for the scissors. Do not press anything else, got it?"
"Only because you asked me so nicely." Drawled Hector.
Hector ran off down the course at a moderate pace while Wallace stood off to the side. As he did this Imanda run up and began quickly untying Yessica.
"You sure know your knots." Noted Yessica.
"Girl scout perks, hun." Winked Imanda.
Imanda untied Yessica quickly and soon Yessica was on her feet and running off.
"Good luck!" Called Imanda.
"Thanks! I may need it!" Replied Yessica.
Quarla ran up and grabbed the turtles off her, chucking them away. She then yanked up Spider to his feet.
"Well, look what we have here." Smirked Quarla. "No hands, no way to defend yourself."
"Quarla … I'm sorry." Said Spider tragically.
"… For what?" Asked Quarla.
"This!" Sneered Spider as he stomped his foot down onto Quarla's foot hard.
"ARRRGGH!" Yelled Quarla as she fell over, holding her now sore foot.
Spider cast a brief sympathetic look at Quarla before refocusing on the challenge. He ran off, his arms still tied to his side by the rope.
Quarla grumbled as she got back to his feet.
"That little rat. Like a spider, his legs will be pulled off." Grunted Quarla in irritation.
(Confessional: He might need some prosthetics.)
Spider: I didn't want to get physical, but … she was going to attack me, and I am not going to put up with that. The thing here … is finding a balance between justifiable self defence, and going too far. I want to be a doctor and heal in juries, not cause them. ...I sure hope Quarla won't finish the job back at camp.
Quarla: Hm, he's got a little fight in him, I like that. This could be fun.
Wallace: Note to self, wear metal boots before trying to eliminate Spider when the time comes.
Hector jogged along as fast as he could go. This was not very fast. He slowed to a halt when he saw some balance beams over what appeared to be hot sauce. At the side of the pit, Patch slurped the hot sauce through a pink curly straw.
"FOOOOOOOOOOD!" Cheered Patch.
"Oh yes, continue the fat guy stereotype." Drawled Hector. "Ok, how to go about this..."
Yessica ran past Hector and looked at the beams, and then the hot sauce.
"Fun fact about me, thanks to Irene's family I've grown very fond of spicy food and condiments." Smirked Yessica.
Yessica ran forwards and dived into the hot sauce, and began easily swimming along to the other side of the pool.
"… I won't ask." Decided Hector as he approached a balance beam.
"Hector! Wait up!" Called Spider.
"Not a chance, this is a race." Reminded Hector without looking back.
"But I'm still tied up! Could you untie me please." Requested Spider.
"What's in it for me? Remember, my team wants the prize too." Said Hector calmly.
"What do you want?" Asked Spider.
"If we end up on a team together, or both make the merge, vote how I want you to." Said Hector promptly.
"… Deal." Decided Spider.
"Swear on Quana's life?" Asked Hector.
"… Deal." Sighed Spider.
With a satisfied nod, Hector used the every-tool to untie Spider. Without another word, Hector kept making his way along the balance beam.
"Thanks." said Spider gratefully.
Hector just gave a polite nod.
(Confessional: Always an angle.)
Hector: I wouldn't have done that if it were an elimination challenge … but, as it is reward only, I felt generous. Besides, there's never a bad time to get an extra ally.
Yessica: Sure, it may not be attention grabbing, but if it helps us win the reward I'm fine with doing only what I'm known for. Pillows and blankets, people!
Up ahead, Bishop, Raven and Paul were tied up, waiting for their team mates to get to them. Bishop propped himself up on his side to look at Raven.
"You know, you do look rather dashing." Noted Bishop.
"Really?" Smiled Raven, looking slightly flattered.
"Indeed. BDSM may be base, childish and for the poor, but those ropes bring our your figure." Smirked Bishop.
"Eep!" Blushed Raven "D-don't be a pig!"
"He is right about one thing though." Added Paul. "BDSM is so weird."
"Hm, looks like you have something in common with me." Noted Bishop. "You may be a cut above the rest, if only slightly."
"You know, you could try being nicer." Muttered Paul.
"I'd extend an affable hand if you were my team mate." Said Bishop sincerity. "… But as you are not, you are fair game."
"I sure hope Hector gets here soon. I really do." Sighed Raven.
"Just ignore him." Advised Paul. "He's trying to throw us off our game."
"Guilty as charged." Admitted Bishop. "Lock me up and throw away the key."
"Well, you're already tied up." Chuckled Paul.
"People are coming!" Exclaimed Raven in great relief.
Yessica ran up and began working hard on untying Paul. She didn't havce much experience, but the effort was there.
"Need me to move myself at all?" Asked Paul.
"No thanks, I got this." Assured Yessica. "Can you even move?"
"… I could try." Shrugged Paul.
Yessica smirked and went about her work.
While Yessica gradually untied and loosened Paul's ropes Hector arrived and ran over to Raven.
"Stay completely still." Advised Hector as he activated the every-tool.
"No worries there." Replied Raven, relaxing herself and staying still as a statue.
Hector quickly cut Raven free, and without a word Raven was off the instant Hector passed over the every-tool.
"Not stopping for conversation." Noted Hector. "Just as well. It is a race."
Spider arrived and began to work on untying Bishop.
"Just get the ropes loose. I can get them off myself with some, urgh, effort. It'll save time." Stated Bishop.
"You're the boss." Replied Spider.
"Darn right I am." Smirked Bishop.
Yessica freed Paul at that moment and he was off.
"BAMF!" Declared Paul.
"Oh Paul … you are not a bad ass mother fucker." Giggled Yessica.
Bishop's ropes were loosened and he sprung up and ran down the course, wiggling and further loosening the ropes as he went.
"Hurry!" Called Spider.
"Don't worry, I am." Replied Bishop. "I do not want to miss seeing Alice tied up. Heheheh!"
(Confessional: Pig.)
Raven: Bishop is really unpleasant, but … if he were on my team at any point, he'd be a good shield. Hmm … I'll keep that idea in the back of my head for now.
Bishop: Maybe my social game could be better, but remember, they cannot vote for me. And even if there is another swap and they do end up on my tea,, I could smooth it over. If I can get Alice to go this long without betraying me, I can sooth the working class whining of Paul and Raven.
Raven jogged on. She wasn't the fastest of runners, but she did have decent stamina. Thus, she was the first one to arrive at the obstacle she needed to get past.
"… Oh my..." Gulped Raven.
A corridor had been set up, and it was full of electrical tripwires.
"This might sting a little." Noted Raven.
Yannis stood nearby. He spotted Raven and approached her.
"Oh, hello Yannis." Greeted Raven, smiling.
Yannis smiled in return and passed Raven a small plastic bar. He made a biting motion.
"This might help. Thanks." Said Raven gratefully. "Ok … I'm going in!"
Raven put the plastic bar in her mouth and carefully made her way into the electric tripwire maze. Ideally she did not want to get shocked at all, but at least if she did she had something to bite on to possibly reduce the pain somewhat.
"Better take it slow and steady." Muttered Raven.
Raven carefully made her way through, ducking under wires, stepping over others and generally just taking her time and being very cautious.
Bishop and Paul meanwhile arrived at the start of the corridor neck and neck. Paul accepted a plastic bar fro, Yannis while Bishop shook his head.
"I'm not putting that in my mouth." Sniffed Bishop. "Ok … urrgh, the things I do for this team..."
Bishop took a deep breath and charged forwards into the wires.
ZAP!
ZAP!
ZAP!
ZAP!
OH YOU BETTER BELIEVE THAT'S A ZAP!
"FUCK!" Yelled Bishop is pain.
Raven winced, both at the bad word and the sight of Bishop in pain and sped up ever so slightly so that he would not catch up to her and possibly bump her.
Paul just stared.
"Ok, I'm a life liver and all, but even I'm not that reckless." Stated Paul, before chucking. "Whoa, Bishop, you're wilder than I thought. Heheheh."
With that, Paul put the plastic bar into his mouth and made his move. He began carefully getting through the wires, matching Raven's strategy but going at a slightly faster pace.
Paul carefully ducked under some wires, and lightly jumped over another. It was like some kind of dreadful game of limbo.
"Ok … so far so good." Thought Paul.
Paul then ducked under a wire, only for the top of his fringe to come into contact with it.
ZAP!
"OW!" Yelped Paul.
(Confessional: Jade called, she wants her shtick back.)
Paul: Next time I compete on this show … assuming I ever will … I'm wearing rubber.
Bishop: Painful? Fuck yes. But, nobody can say I do not try at these pitifully put together challenges. I just kept telling myself to imagine seeing Alice tied up like the dog she is. That gave me plenty of motivation.
(Intern Compound)
Steve stood by a vending machine, trying to insert a fifty dollar bill which kept being rejected. But, it seemed that Steve would not be deterred and he kept putting the money back in.
"Come on! I want some cherry soda!" Insisted Steve. "Just a sip!"
As Steve continued to try and get soda from the machine without success Kim walked by looking at her iPad. However after passing Steve she paused and took a few steps back.
"What the fuck are you doing?" Asked Kim blankly.
"Trying to get some soda." Stated Steve.
"That machine doesn't accept fifty dollars notes. It says so right there." Said Kim flatly, pointing to a sign hung next to the machine that backed up her claims.
"… Oh." Noted Steve. "Well, that's thirty minutes I won't get back. Um … got change for a fifty?"
"… Eh, what the hell." Shrugged Kim, taking out a bunch of five dollar bills and passing them to Steve in exchange for the fifty. "Why do you have a fifty anyway? No offence, but you don't strike me as a Bishop."
"I could never be a Bishop. The hat wouldn't look good on me." Sighed Steve. "But, get this! Thanks to my Steve powers I won a bunch of money from Chef."
"Steve powers?" Repeated Kim, looking both confused and dull.
"I got three bullseyes with his Desert Eagle handgun … handcannon … the dangerous thingy! Either way, sucks to not be me." Giggled Steve.
"… You know how to use guns?" Asked Kim, looking rather interested. "That's … pretty fucking bad ass. Not bad Steve."
"Aw shucks." Chuckled Steve. "Oh! Idea! Maybe Chef could teach you how to use a gun? He's already teaching Quana."
Kim looked a little nervous, not making eye contact with Steve.
"Um … yeah … he kinda … scares me." Admitted Kim.
"Oh yeah, the whole racism thing. I forgot." Noted Steve. "Why is not all right if it's not all white anyway?"
Kim looked extremely uncomfortable and seemed to be looking for a way out.
"I know it's wrong … but after what happened … nope, nope, I do not know you anywhere close to well enough." Stated Kim firmly. "Enjoy your soda. I got a date with ebay as I got a fifty to blow."
Kim quickly jogged off and Steve stood alone.
Steve looked thoughtful, inserting a five dollar bill into the machine.
(Challenge Field)
Raven nimbly stepped over the final electrical trip wire and wiped some sweat off of her forehead.
"Phew. Made it." Said Raven in relief.
"Over here!" Called Barney, laying tied up next to Alice and Rheneas.
Raven ran over and activated the every-tool quickly freeing Barney.
"Ok, I call bullshit. How is that fair on our teams?" Complained Alice.
"Yeah, I agree, that's not fair." Nodded Rheneas.
"Wallace." Said Raven simply.
"Ah." Said Rheneas in understanding while Alice huffed.
"Such a clown … smart clown, if such a thing could exist." Muttered Alice.
"Anything is possible." Said Barney cheerfully as Raven handed him the every-tool. "Hm, what does this do?"
Barney pressed a few buttons on the every-tool and a flamethrower emerged, blasting some fire into the air. Raven and Alice shrieked, while Rheneas was in awe.
"Cooooool." Smirked Rheneas.
Barney took a bow and then legged it further down the course as fast as he could go. He rounded a corner and was out of sight.
Just as Barney was gone Bishop stumbled out of the electrical corridor with a moan of pain. Alice could not help but snicker.
"That's a good look for you." Snickered Alice. "Toasty, and yet no butter."
Bishop frowned, but then sneered.
"A good look, perhaps, but you being tied up is much better. I knew you were a girl of strange and poor tastes … but, really Allison? For shame." Smirked Bishop.
Alice kicked Bishop in the shin with her foot. Hard.
"Ack!" Yelped Bishop in pain.
"Just untie me." Grunted Alice. "We have a challenge to win."
Bishop looked annoyed, but nevertheless he did as he was asked. As he worked on his task, Paul leapt out of the corridor and over to Rheneas.
"Good work Paul." Complimented Rheneas. "Now, its my turn."
"Don't let us down." Said Paul, quickly untying the rope. "Um..."
"Yes?" Asked Rheneas.
"… Nothing." Said Paul as she ropes fell away. "Hurry!"
Rheneas leapt to his feet and dashed off. As he did so Bishop finished untying Alice. Without sparing Bishop a glance Alice blazed after her opponents.
(Confessional: Such tempers.)
Bishop: Perhaps not the best for my game … but let's be honest, Alice was thinking the same things. The fact I said it just shows I'm braver than her. Besides, Alice Baiting is better than any kind of sport on TV.
Alice: I hate Bishop, naturally, but I need him for my game. Well, not so much him as his vote. After Eddie is gone I should have the flexibility to pick him off. That way I can keep Spider loyal to me … don't be thinking I've not noticed how Bishop is trying to butter him up.
Rheneas: Gotta say, Paul seemed to look at me in a strange way … I wouldn't call it suspicion, but it wasn't just a casual look. I better keep an eye on him … his gameplay is a lot more direct this season.
Barney sprinted forwards with the every-tool in his hands. He glanced back and saw Rheneas a fair distance away, with Alice behind him. Nodding to himself Barney picked up the pace and pushed himself to the limits of his speed. Soon enough, he saw the obstacle that awaited him.
A pit of what seemed to be vindaloo curry mix had been set up, and several thin and round wooden platforms were set up. Barney cheered and clapped.
"Ninja training course!" Exclaimed Barney.
Barney back up and took a running leap onto the first platform. He hopped to the second one, skipped to the third and jumped to the fourth. Barney then pushed a few random buttons on the every-tool and waited to see how he would be getting to the fifth platform.
The result was the every tool launching a boxing glove out at the platform which sent Barney backwards from the force of it, into the air and backflipping onto the final platform.
"Skillz!" Cheered Barney as he jogged off further down the course.
Rheneas and Alice ran up, having seen Alice go.
"That guy has some real skills." Noted Rheneas.
"Ninjas are overrated. He'll get nowhere in life acting like a kid all the time. I like kids, not manchildren." Stated Alice. "Move over."
Alice jumped onto the first platform and began to make her way across. With a shrug, Rheneas followed after her. When one jumped forward the other would do the same. It wasn't a hard obstacle, but the threat of being submerged in ho curry sauce kept both cautious.
"Normally, I love hot food. Now, not so much." Muttered Rheneas.
"This is why I prefer salads." Muttered Alice.
The two managed to get onto solid ground. Alice took off first, but Rheneas quickly caught up to her. With a determined grunt, Alice sped up and began to match Rheneas' pace.
(Confessional: I'd prefer korma.)
Rheneas: Alice has got a fire in her … I can respect that.
Alice: Rheneas is somebody I hope loses the game sooner than later. As irksome as I find him and his gung-ho Team America personality, he's a threat. Funny how that works, but I hope his team has the brains to kick him off soon.
Barney: That was amazing … and lucky. (Barney chuckles). You know … I may act super bouncy and all, and it's fun, but … I've been thinking … maybe Lavender dumped me because I was not serious enough for her. I would like to, you know, have a family one day … maybe I should be a little more serious? Only idea is how hard it can be for me … guess I'll see if Helen's boring teaching can help with that, huh?
Barney rounded another corner and saw his teammate Quana tied up, along with Jimmy and Opal lying near her. Quick as a flash, Barney was behind Quana untying her.
"Man, these ropes really itch." Noted Quana. "I think Chris made them a little too tight."
"Don't worry, I'll make short work of them. I know a ninjas technique for this." Assured Barney.
Barney carefully analysed the ropes, and tapped them hard in four different places.
"Um … what was that supposed to do?" Asked Quana.
"Wait for it." Smirked Barney.
The ropes then loosened and fell away, allowing Quana to stand up as Barney passed her the every-tool.
"Thanks Barney. But, if you have this gizmo … why do what you just did?" Asked Quana curiously.
"Fun." Replied Barney.
"As good a reason as any other." Smirked Quana before she turned and jogged off.
At that moment Alice and Rheneas ran up and began untying their team mates.
"Ok Jimmy, first place might be hard to obtain, but we can still come in second. I need you to run as fast as you can, and if possible trip Opal over." Stated Alice firmly. "You got all that?"
"Crystal clear." Replied Jimmy. "I don't really care if we win or lose, but I'll admit that blankets would be nice."
"Excellent. Glad you saw it my way." Nodded Alice.
Meanwhile Rheneas worked on untying Opal as fast as he could.
"Reminds me of a few nights with Zed, this does. :D." Mused Opal. "Know what I mean?"
"Uh … no comment." Muttered Rheneas. "Sorry, but we should focus on the challenge right now."
"You're right. Can do." Nodded Opal.
Soon enough Jimmy and Opal were both untied. Opal sped off, with Jimmy on her heel.
"Wait up!" Called Jimmy. "… Or don't. Whatever."
Rheneas and Alice walked off to the side to wait out the challenge. Barney was meditating silently.
"… You sure are a skilled player." Noted Rheneas. "Nice moves on the obstacle."
"… Thanks." Said Alice, looking unsure how to react. "Probably buttering me up."
(Confessional: Mmmmm, butter…)
Alice: I trust nobody. It's basic logic both in-game and out. But on the off-chance Rheneas is actually offering a simple compliment, I won't snap at him. If there's another team swap, and his team is too dumb to kick him off, he may be of limited use.
Jimmy: I may not care … but my team does, so I guess I ought to try harder. I guess I have been a bit … uh … slothful, haven't I? (Jimmy tries not to look nervous). Better run fast. I only have short legs.
Quana: Being close to Jimmy just then … it really allows you to see how much he's gone through between seasons. His eyes … so sad. I wonder if there is a way that I could help…
Quana paced herself as she jogged along. She didn't know how far she would have to go, or what obstacle she would have to overcome, so she made sure to converse some energy.
"Such a lot of running these days." Noted Quana. "Thank goodness for treadmills in suburban garages. Heehee!"
Quana kept up her constant pace, but soon came to the obstacle that she needed to clear.
"Hmm … this is interesting." Noted Quana.
A large climbing wall had been set up, but it differed from the wall of the obstacle course a few days ago in that it had sections of it that jutted in and out in sequence, as well as parts that seemed to move around.
It was rather eerie.
Wasting no time, Quana ran to the wall and began to climb her way up to the top. Once there it would be all downhill … or rather, down wall.
As Quana made her way up Opal and Jimmy ran up. With a gleeful cheer Opal started to make her way up the wall. Jimmy did the same, straining a little from the difficulty and trying to not look down.
Quana had needed to stuff the every took down her shirt to keep it from falling out of her grip. After all, she needed both hands for the wall. The result looked a little comical.
"I wish I knew how to work this thing." Muttered Quana. "Maybe it has a helicopter function in it?"
Quana soon made it to the top of the wall. After hauling herself up, Quana carefully dropped down the other side, performing a three point landing.
"Nailed it!" Cheered Quana as she got to her feet and jogged onwards.
Opal had quickly reached the top of the wall and seen how Quana had landed.
"Heh, I can do that." Chuckled Opal. "Here I go!"
Opal leapt off the wall with a cheer.
BAM!
Opal belly-flopped the ground hard.
"Owwwwww… :(." Groaned Opal.
BAM!
Jimmy landed on top of Opal.
"Ooo, sorry about that? You ok?" Asked Jimmy.
Opal gave a thumbs up.
"Well … ok then." Said Jimmy as he ran off after Quana.
(Confessional: Three point crash landing.)
Quana: (She fiddles with the every-tool) Ok, let's see that this does. (The every-tool blasts some sort of bomb and the recoil sends Quana flying off-screen). Oof!
Opal: Curse you gravity…
Quana sped up to the sixth checkpoint. Lying in close proximity on the ground and tied up were Sasha, Helen and Uzuri.
"Release me." Stated Helen.
"Can do." Replied Quana as she set to work untying the ropes.
Quana made short work of the ropes and passed the every-tool to Helen who began to slowly jog off.
"Run!" Called Quana.
"Sue me for not being fast." Droned Helen.
As Helen headed off Jimmy ran up and started to untie Sasha.
"These ropes are tight." Muttered Jimmy.
"You can do it." Assured Sasha. "Let me know if you need me to adjust my position."
"Will do." Replied Jimmy.
"Nice to see you're trying again." Smiled Sasha.
Jimmy just shrugged.
Opal wearily ran up and got to work untying Uzuri.
"You look just like you fell off a fifteen foot wall and bellyflopped the ground." Noted Uzuri.
"Probably because I did." Giggled Opal. "Are you psychic?"
"Just psycho. But in another reality, who knows?" Chuckled Uzuri.
Soon enough Uzuri's ropes were untied.
"Let's do this!" Cheered Uzuri as she charged on ahead.
Just as Uzuri ran off Sasha was freed.
"Better get a move on." Muttered Sasha.
(Confessional: Well? Get going then!)
Sasha: I really need to at least come second in this challenge. No need to give the others more reasons to vote for me and Eddie right now.
Helen quickly reached the ropes that the final members of the teams were supposed to climb. Helen's facial expression said it all.
"Yep, I won't be able to climb that." Noted Helen.
Helen then glanced down at the every-tool in her hands.
"Ah, of course." Noted Helen.
Helen threw the every-tool at the silver bell.
DING!
"THE SILVER SWORDFISH WIN PILLOWS AND BLANKETS!" Announced Winnie into a megaphone from a distance away.
Helen nodded in satisfaction and stood off to the side. As she did so Sasha and Uzuri ran up, neck and neck.
"I'm a faster climber than you Uzuri. No pillows for you!" Teased Sasha.
"That's what you think, but I have a secret weapon." Smirked Uzuri.
"Oh really? And what might that be?" Asked Sasha.
Uzuri stuck her foot out, tripping Sasha to the ground.
"My foot!" Cackled Uzuri as she ran to the rope that led to to the bronze bell and began to climb it.
Sasha quickly picked herself up and legged it after Uzuri, climbing the rope to the gold bell. Uzuri had the lead, but Sasha was narrowing the gap quickly.
And, a few seconds later one of them rang their team's bell…
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and it was Uzuri.
"BRONZE TIGERS WIN PILLOWS!" Announced Chris through a megaphone.
"GOLDEN HAWKS WIN ZIPPITY-DOO-DAH." Said Xaria flatly into a megaphone.
(Confessional: Feet are powerful!)
Uzuri: Oh yeah … you better fear the foot!
Sasha: Well, I tried … but tomorrow, I better try and succeed.
Soon enough the nineteen campers were gathered back at the starting area, while the hosts summed up the results.
"Good effort from all of you today!" Chirped Winnie. "Be proud of yourselves!"
"But we mostly mean that to the Swordfish and Tigers." Added Xaria.
"The pillows and blankets have been delivered to your campsites." Concluded Chris.
"See you later kitty-cats!" Said Winnie with a smile.
The teams filed out to return to their camp sites. Two teams were pleased, and one team was not.
(Confessional: Not everybody can be a winner.)
Eddie: Good thing this was only a reward challenge, or I'd be really scared right about now. (Eddie looks nervous)
Alice: Hrrrm, not a good display today. These guys better pick things up tomorrow. Power or not, I don't want fate to kick me in the teeth and try to ruin my plans.
Wallace: Mwahahahaha! MVP, right here! Oh, I love it when a plan comes together; it all fell together so perfectly … like dominoes!
Raven: Well, I'd call this quite a good day. Pillow and blankets , and I didn't get zapped once!
Paul: A pillow would have been really nice … but, eh, I can live with blankets. It gets pretty chilly at night.
Imanda: A relaxing lazy morning and blankets? Things are looking up!
(Golden Hawks)
Alice, Bishop and Quarla sat around the shelter. Alice and Bishop looked bitter in defeat, while Quarla seemed bitter in general.
"Well, that could have gone better." Muttered Alice.
"Indeed. It hurts to miss out on luxury, even if only a small amount." Agreed Bishop. "But, it is what it is … your fault."
"My fault? That's funny, because I thought it was your fault." Frowned Alice.
"It was both your faults." Grunted Quarla. "Urgh, so annoyed..."
"What's rattled your cage this time? Have you got fleas?" Asked Bishop mockingly.
Quarla punched Bishop is response.
"...Worth it..." Winced Bishop.
"Something bothering you?" Asked Alice.
"I can't find Spider anywhere. He's done a runner." Grumbled Quarla. "Next time I see him..."
"Focus on the game." Said Alice firmly. "Do you realise he is likely to betray us if you treat him poorly?"
"She's right for once." Added Bishop.
"Whatever. I'm gonna go punch some trees." Muttered Quarla as she got up and walked away.
Alice and Bishop were left alone.
"Don't even say anything." Said Alice flatly.
"Paranoid much?" Smirked Bishop.
(Confessional: Paranoia, paranoia!)
Bishop: The idea is to get into Alice's head and make her go off her game. From there, it'll be easy to assert myself as the alliance leader. Plus, it's fun.
Quarla: He can hide … but I will find him…
Eddie and Sasha sat together in a tree. Sasha looked upset.
"I cost us the challenge … maybe you won't be the main target anymore." Chuckled Sasha humorously.
"Don't worry, we'll find a way out of this." Assured Eddie. "We can start by winning immunity tomorrow. I suggest neither of us sit out. If we add to the team, they'll be less inclined to vote for us."
"True point." Agreed Sasha. "You know … maybe we could try to get them to vote for Jimmy? I mean, he's always gonna be against you so … it'd make sense to vote him off, and he's the weakest on the team physically. He's like a goomba among koopas."
"Works for me." Nodded Eddie.
"Good. Well, no time like the present to start talking to the others, right?" Said Sasha, getting ready to drop off the branch.
"Wait a second. Sasha, did your cigarettes turn up?" Asked Eddie.
"Sadly, no." Muttered Sasha. "I'm starting to wonder if they were even stolen … maybe I just dropped them. Accusing people of theft is kind of … well … douchey. I'll search for them later and go from there."
"Good plan." Said Eddie, smiling. "And … good luck."
"… We both need good luck." Said Sasha with a weak smile.
With that, Sasha dropped off the branch and jogged away.
(Confessional: Smokey and the gamer.)
Sasha: So, we're targets, I lost the challenge and my cigarettes are MIA … it looks bad, but … never hurts to have hope, right? Not over until the votes are cast! (Sasha sighs) ...Shit, we're boned.
Jimmy sat alone at the edge of camp. He looked at the pad he had been given, replaying the brief footage of Eleanor over and over. He sat in an angle where the cameras could not see the pad.
"… Where are you?" Thought Jimmy sadly. "I'd do anything to save you. Anything."
Jimmy watched the footage again.
"… Sloth is done. That leaves Lust, Gluttony, Pride, Wrath, Envy and Greed, if I'm remembering Sunday School right. Which one is next … I wonder what I'll be up against." Thought Jimmy nervously.
From a distance away Jimmy was being watched. Jennifer gazed at him, and spotted the pad in his hands. However, she could not see what was on the screen.
"… Is that pad something to do with his fear earlier today?" Thought Jennifer curiously.
(Confessional: If only she knew…)
Jimmy: … I should start trying harder. Starting tomorrow, I'll put more effort into this game. The money does not matter to me, but … it's what Eleanor would want. Eddie, watch out. Everybody … watch out.
(Silver Swordfish)
Hector sat on a log with Barney and Helen. Barney was attempted to be silent and still and, at Helen's request, not do so in a ninja meditative stance. Hector watched the two with a raised eyebrow.
"I will never understand social interaction." Thought Hector.
(Confessional: Nor me.)
Hector: Wallace was the reason we won today. Of course, I am pleased … but also concerned and annoyed. This MVP status will make it hard to eliminate him. My options are to either vote off somebody else … or possibly sabotage his every-tool. Hmmm … either option is good, but this merits further thought and consideration.
"… Ok, that's ten minutes." Stated Helen.
Barney smiled.
"I'm getting better at being quieter." Noted Barney. "Cool, right?"
"… It's boring." Said Helen in approval. "Good work."
"While I agree that being quiet is a good thing, we should talk about who to target next." Stated Hector calmly. "As Wallace was such a help today … I'll assume you do not want to vote him off?"
"Not really, no." Admitted Barney.
"He's annoying … but, he helps the team." Droned Helen.
"In that case … Quana, or Raven?" Asked Hector.
Helen shrugged, while Barney pretended to look thoughtful.
"Well, it all comes down to who is more threatening, right? Well, Raven is obviously madly in love with Wallace, so she'd be the more obvious choice. Quana … doesn't have the hots for either of them, so she'll be less trouble. That's my view anyway." Said Barney cheerfully. "Anyway, time to meditate."
Barney got into a meditative stance and started to 'ommmm'. Meanwhile Hector nodded seriously.
"Barney makes a good point. Helen, you on board?" Asked Hector.
"I guess." Shrugged Helen.
(Confessional: Not much certainty there, Helen.)
Hector: Normally, I'd be worried by Helen's lack of certainty … but she probably considers betrayal 'too exciting' or something, so I feel pretty secure. I just need to ensure the other three vote for Barney or Helen … because, let's face it, they're clearly working as one. Barney could tell, after all.
Barney: If Quana stays, it's good for me, right? Also, I will not like the Spiuana ship die!
Wallace was basking in the praise of his 'sexy minions', feeling rather content.
"You really won that challenge for us Wallace. I don't think we could have done it without you." Said Quana, looking impressed.
"You really can back up your claims as a genius. I guess since it technically was not cheating … I'm pretty impressed too." Smiled Raven.
"Oh my dear, sexy minions." Chuckled Wallace. "When you're a genius like me, this sort of thing is as easy as putting on a shirt."
"Minions?" Repeated Quana.
"Sexy?" Repeated Raven, blushing shyly.
"Hey, it's a compliment, right?" Smirked Wallace. "Ok, Booty One and Booty Two, we won the day and earned comfort. But! The game is still near the start; as we cannot win forever, when we do lose we shall keep the plan as it is … voting Helen. But, watch out for Hector … I don't think he can be trusted. He's playing a hard game, I can tell."
Quana and Raven considered their responses.
"Booty One and Booty Two?" Said Quana flatly, an eyebrow raised.
"I feel embarrassed." Admitted Raven, covering her backside.
"Every minion needs a name." Smirked Wallace.
"Amazingly, the name Quana would work very well." Said Quana in dry playfulness.
"Raven works for me." Added Raven.
"… No creativity." Sighed Wallace.
At that moment Steve ran up.
"Message for Quana!" Declared Steve. "Spider wishes to meet with you in the Neutral Zone."
"I'm off!" Grinned Quana, giggling as she adjusted her hair.
Quana jogged off which left Raven, Wallace and Steve by themselves. Steve glanced at Wallace's outfit.
"… Eh, Sergeant Blast was better." Admitted Steve.
Wallace looked offended.
(Confessional: Peter Perfect was good too.)
Wallace: … People actually liked that character? (Wallace huffs) Attacks at my taste in villainy aside, I think I'm in a good spot. Plus, to ensure I do not become a huge threat I do intend to make inventions that are secretly designed to blow up. Just to show I, ahem, am capable of failing. Mwahahahaha!
Raven: I know I should play my own game, and I will … but given how good everything is going, is there really any need to cause waves and such?
(Bronze Tigers)
Paul had gathered Yessica and Opal up to talk to them. The three of them stood waist deep in the sea at the present time.
"I know we've not spoken in a little while, but we are still allies. And so, there is something big I need to tell you." Said Paul seriously.
"What is it? Our next target?" Asked Yessica.
"Well … yes and no." Admitted Paul. "See, I overheard Gordon in the forest today … he mentioned that Rheneas has an idol. A special immunity idol."
Yessica gasped, while Opal looked stunned and flopped backwards into the water, though quickly surfaced.
"Whuh?! When did this happen?!" Exclaimed Yessica.
"Plot twist." Gulped Opal.
"I followed Gordon to see if he'd say anything else, and it turns out Rheneas won one in the first challenge, along with Uzuri and Helen. Uzuri's is apparently gone. But … as long as Rheneas has this idol, he cannot be voted out. Thus, we need to get rid of it, and quick!" Insisted Paul.
"Well, that shouldn't be too hard. Just get four votes against him, and boom." Said Yessica confidently.
"Yeah, and then Rheneas and Imanda decide who goes home … right?" Asked Opal.
"Right." Confirmed Paul. "We gotta play this careful and cold."
Yessica and Opal looked nervous.
"… So much for a peaceful evening." Sighed Yessica.
"Bogus. :(." Pouted Opal.
(Confessional: Bill and Ted!)
Yessica: I guess I should be grateful Uzuri has no idol anymore. That'd be insane…
Paul: Oh man, this is gonna be a big test of my gameplay … I'm up to the challenge!
Rheneas, Imanda sat together by the shelter, while nearby Uzuri worked on making a sandcastle.
"… Think the other three are meeting up to talk about voting one of us off?" Asked Rheneas.
"Possibly. Or they could just be going for a swim. The water is nice." Added Imanda.
"Hm, true." Agreed Rheneas. "Maybe I'll go in the water too. So, made any progress with Clyde."
"We spent the morning being … um … lazy bastards." Giggled Imanda. "It was fun. Sure, the firewood arrived late, but … I had fun."
"Being lazy is underrated." Chuckled Rheneas.
"Sure is." Said Imanda, smiling.
Meanwhile Uzuri put the finishing touches on her sandcastle.
"What do you think guys?" Asked Uzuri cheerfully.
"Looks great." Noted Rheneas.
"You'd easily win the Sandcastle Building Badge for that." Agreed Imanda.
At that moment a bird flew by and dropped a coconut onto the sandcastle, smashing it.
Uzuri's eye twitched.
"FUUUUUUUUUUCK!" Yelled Uzuri, stomping her feet.
Rheneas and Imanda both giggled at this display.
"Also, you may wanna watch out for Paul … I think he suspects I have an idol." Whispered Rheneas.
"Not sure how he'd know … but, duly noted." Replied Imanda quietly.
At that moment Clyde walked by, looking sleepy.
"Yo, Imanda, wanna be lazy with me?" Offered Clyde.
"Do I ever!" Grinned Imanda as she leapt up and followed after Clyde.
(Confessional: The wonders of drunk people, right?)
Uzuri: (She pouts) I do not like birds anymore. But, now, I gotta find Vinnie. It's very important, he said so!
Imanda: I could get sued to this whole 'laziness and not working' thing.
(Neutral Zone)
Darkness was rolling in, but that did not stop Quana from arriving at the Neutral Zone. She glanced around and spotted Spider sitting at the base of a tree. Quana gave him a wave, which he returned, and she jogged over.
"Hey Spider." Greeted Quana as she sat next to Spider, laying her hand on his. "Nice to see you."
"Always nice to see you." Replied Spider, smiling. "How have you been?"
"Pretty good actually. Me and Chef have been getting along pretty well. He even taught me how to use a gun earlier today." Grinned Quana.
"He what?!" Exclaimed Spider. "… What else has he taught you to do?"
"How to not act like a brat." Stated Quana. "It's a mutual deal. He teaches me stuff and helps me grow up … and I do little favours for him?"
"Not that I do not trust him, but … what kind of favours?" Asked Spider.
Quana sighed and put a hand on Spider's shoulder.
"Do not freak out." Requested Quana. "I had to, in order, retrieve his spatula from a bear, gather mushrooms from a ravine … and gather skulls from a tribal graveyard."
"… That sounds dangerous. I mean, I know you can take care of yourself, but..." Spider trailed off.
"I know what you mean. I actually nearly fell down the ravine, but Nakia saved me." Said Quana, adjusting her cap. "It's all a long story."
"… I got time." Said Spider patiently.
Quana paused. How would she tell Spider about all the Jareth stuff and how scared Nakia had been.
"… I need time to gather my thoughts." Admitted Quana. "So, why did ya wanna mean up, my little arachnid?"
"I made you a gift." Said Spider, smiling.
Spider reached behind himself and took out a necklace made from some fine rope and one of the orange crystals from the cave. He passed it to Quana.
"Hope you like it." Said Spider, smiling. "… Happy anniversary."
"I love it." Said Quana softly, putting it on and giving Spider a hug. "I got something for you too."
Quana reached into her pockets and took out a tiny pocket camera.
"Use it to make some memories." Said Quana lovingly.
Without words, Spider took the camera, pulled Quana into a hug … and took a selfie. He then kissed her.
"Hard to believe we've been dating for a year, huh?" Chuckled Spider.
"I always knew we'd last. Good thing we kept it secret, huh? People would look for any reason to target us … and if we were separate on this day, it would've hurt." Admitted Quana.
"Agreed." said Spider, before sighing.
"Something wrong?" Asked Quana.
"… Could you stay here with me tonight?" Asked Spider. "Quarla is on a warpath against me. I kinda stomped on her foot hard in the challenge to ward her off … I feel too nervous to go back to my campsite."
"… Of course I will." Said Quana, smiling.
As the sun set, the two snuggled up, Spider sitting against the tree and Quana cuddled up on his lap. They drifted off peacefully.
(Confessional: Awwww!)
Spider: Even with that bitch Quarla making things hard, I can still find a lot to smile about. I like to think that in any bad situation, there is always something to smile about.
Quana: Surprise! (Quana giggles)
Winnie and Xaria stood in the helicopter above the island, ready to give the outro to the episode.
"No elimination today, but MEOW! What an episode!" Exclaimed Winnie, clapping her hands energetically. "Harsh words, alliances, bondage, some strategy, comedy and even an anniversary! Such fun!"
"What more could they want, right?" Added Xaria.
"Exactly!" Agreed Winnie, smiling. "Everybody has something to do and everybody wants to win, so I think we'll be seeing some pretty epic vote soon! But … will Quarla smash Spider? Will Jimmy's new drive to compete last long? Will Wallace 'legally cheat' at the next challenge? Will Helen remain under the radar once more? Can Paul get rid of Rheneas' idol and keep his alliance intact? Will Imanda act lazy again? And who will be the next person voted off the island?! Find out next time kitty cats, on Total Drama Letter Starz!"
"We endorse bondage, clearly." Said Xaria dryly.
Golden Hawks: Alice, Bishop, Eddie, Jimmy, Quarla, Sasha, Spider
Silver Swordfish: Barney, Hector, Helen, Quana, Raven, Wallace
Bronze Tigers: Imanda, Opal, Paul, Rheneas, Uzuri, Yessica
Eliminated: Lavender, VayVay, Irene, Zed, Eleanor, Lankston, Tabitha
No elimination this time, but the plot has moved forwards a good deal I'd say. It'll only continue to keep moving. Ten episodes done … twenty two to go, with everything in-between!
Next Time: Kasimar and Madeline reach civilisation … problems quickly ensue.