Disclaimer: I do not own Total Drama. I do however own all 26 OC's in this story.
Note: Phew! This chapter took a while of constant writing to get done; it's over sixteen thousand words long! But it's to be expected; this chapter has some very big twists in in that are going to shake up the game and most likely cause some mayhem. I have some uni work to do, so this may be the last chapter for a while. Until then, enjoy the new chapter!
Insert non spoilery pun here.
It was a cloudless night on Wawanakwa; stars were shining and the moon was almost glowing in the beautiful night sky. There was a mild wind blowing through the island and it seemed like it might get stronger if it had the chance to. Chris Maclean was currently standing on the Dock of Shame to give the recap, and standing with him this time was Bridgette.
"Welcome back to another exciting episode of Total Drama Tweenabet, the show that puts the Drama in the Dictionary." Grinned Chris.
"That isn't how the phrase goes." Stated Bridgette.
"And as you can see, joining me for this recap is Bridgette, our vegetarian surfer." Added Chris.
"Happy to be here." Smiled Bridgette.
"So, last time on Total Drama Tweenabet we rocked out hard … by throwing rocks! The girls took on the boys and many rocks were thrown in all directions. Whichever team had more of their colour on the opponent's side would win the challenge … and this turned out to be harder than the tweens had anticipated. Some rocks were heavy, Ivy sabotaged her team, Ub had immense difficulty due to being blind, Kelly couldn't life the rocks very well and Xadrian dropped a rock onto his foot. Classic! Haha!" Chuckled Chris.
"Thankfully nobody got hurt." Added Bridgette. "Camp life had a lot of intensity as always. Kelly poured bacon on Betilla which made Betilla swear revenge on Quadesh who Kelly framed for it. Ivy felt more stress and misery in her current situation. Also, Yoko told Donald that the Sloppy Joe Monster was possibly an 'Umibozu'. Not to mention how Harvey accepted every alliance he was offered, and Otis tried his hand at strategy. Oh, and Sampson admitted his lie to stop Donald from benefitting from telling everyone about it."
"We've been getting a lot of ratings from these kids, they are officially awesome." Grinned Chris. "In the end the boys on the Strong Squids won the challenge and sent the girls of the Tough Tuna to elimination. It looked like it was going to be a tie between Betilla and Quadesh, but Ub forced Ivy to cast a throwaway vote to eliminate Betilla and dent the CPN alliance. Time will tell if this will come back to haunt anyone. With Betilla gone seventeen tweens remain, and all of them have their eyes on the prize. So Bridgette, who are you rooting for?"
"Edith. Her crush on Geoff was so cute and the way she confessed her love to him was adorable. He has my support all the way … her and Ivy. I'd be happy if either of them won." Replied Bridgette.
"We'll have to see if they can keep avoiding elimination." Stated Chris. "So, will the Sloppy Joe Monster attack Donald again? Will anybody hook up? Will Ub, Tilly and Kelly Make more devious moves? Will Sampson survive without his fake twist? Can Penta teach Larry to be a 'better person'? Will Gilda pull off anymore surprises given her random nature? And who will be the tenth tween voted out of the contest?"
"Find out right now on Total Drama Tweenabet!" Finished Bridgette with a grin.
(Theme song, I wanna be famous)
(Strong Squids)
Despite the fact that night had fallen and that the wind was picking up, the only boys currently in the treehouse were Xadrian, Larry and Harvey. The rest of the boys were elsewhere for some reason or another. Currently Xadrian was talking to his alliance mates about their next game move.
"It's gr't th't we won tha chall'nge, but we gotta be pr'pared if we lose tha n'xt one." Stated Xadrian. "That 'lliances are pr'tty solid at tha m'ment, but with tha right w'rds we may be able ta g't s'mb'dy else on our side. Anyb'dy gots 'n idea who c'd join us?"
"Sadly I don't. I think the only person who would is Sampson … and we are not having him in the alliance for any reason." Said Larry with a note of finality. "Regardless of me wanting to be nicer, I am not letting that lazy sack of crud into our circle."
"G't th't right." Agreed Xadrian. "Guess we'll j'st h'v ta f'nd s'm kinda idol or somethin'. That'r j'st hope Chris calls f'r a team sw'p 'n we g't s'm new allies."
"Team swap?" Repeated Larry.
"Yeah, ah reckon he'd swap s'm boys ta tha g'rls team 'n some g'irls ta that boys team. Sh'd be any day now; ah'm k'nda s'prised he didn't do that l'st season." Mused Xadrian. "Hopef'lly ah ain't g'nna be p't w'th Betilla."
"Heaven help you if that happens." Winced Larry. "So, basically we're relying on Lady Luck?"
"Pr'tty m'ch." Nodded Xadrian.
"Well, guess we'd better hope Lady Misfortune doesn't strike." Sighed Larry. "What do you think Harvey?"
Larry's response was a snore; Harvey had fallen asleep while sitting up and was lightly drooling. Xadrian rolled his eyes, took out his knife and stabbed it hard into the wall. The noise of this woke Harvey up in an instant.
"Ack! I swear I studied for the test!" Yelped Harvey before remembering where he was. "Oh, hey guys."
"Harvey, have you been listening?" Asked Larry.
"Sorry, I missed a bit; could you repeat it? I fell asleep." Admitted Harvey.
"Where should we start from?" Sighed Larry.
"The part where I fell asleep." Requested Harvey.
"Wh'ch p'rt w's th't?" Asked Xadrian.
"I don't know, I was asleep." Said Harvey apologetically.
Larry groaned in annoyance while Xadrian sighed.
"W'll, ah guess until f'rther notice we c'n j'st use tha fake idols ta b'y us s'm time." Decided Xadrian.
"Fake idols?" Repeated Harvey.
"Yep, ah'm tha one who whittles 'em." Nodded Xadrian. "Ah tr'st that ya won't tell anyone 'bout th's. It's 'n alliance secr't."
"… Sure, I won't tell anyone." Saluted Harvey.
"You better not; if we go down then you go down with us." Said Larry calmly. "Anyway, let's get some sleep. Tomorrow is going to have another challenge waiting for us … even with a day of rest, it's still hard living in the wild. Plus, we weren't allowed to go to the neutral zone, so we don't even know who got booted from the girl's team."
"Guess we'll f'nd out tomorr'w." Shrugged Xadrian.
(Confessional: Tomorrow is always a day away.)
Xadrian: W's it wise ta tell Harv'y th't ah make tha fake idols? M'ybe, m'ybe n't … but if ah prove th't ah tr'st him th'n he might stay loyal ta me 'n Larry fur the long t'rm. Rule number one, don't p't ya tr'st in tha wr'ng pe'ple. Ah kn'w th't ah c'n tr'st L'rry … time ta see if ah c'n tr'st H'rvey.
Larry: I hope we don't regret recruiting Harvey for our alliance, but votes are important. I am so glad I have the gift of common sense unlike many others … though at times it feels like a curse. It's gonna be a hard few weeks ahead of me, but eh, it's doable I guess.
Harvey: So … Xadrian made the fake idols … and I'm allied with him?! I'm working with a villain! But, then again … maybe I could tell the others … so, if I do that they'll ask why they told me and then they'll know I joined all the alliances and then I'll be in big trouble. Guess I'll have to stay quiet … at least I'm no target though, right?
Ub was sitting alone by the river that ran through camp and was deep in thought.
"We won and that gives me an extra day to plan for the future … but considering that some of my team mates are lazy Sampson, crazy Otis and dumb Harvey we may have some problems on the horizon. I need to plan for any occurrence." Thought Ub to himself. "Ivy could throw challenges on the other team, but if that fails who should I vote out … I need more allies on this team, but who should I ask … Sampson is basically dead in the water, so maybe I can ask him; not like anybody else is gonna want to work with him."
Ub was silent for a moment before he took out a second pair of sunglasses; he took off his normal pair and tossed them into the river before putting the new pair on.
"These things are incredible; I can't believe what I've been missing all my life…" Said Ub softly. "These V.E Sunglasses are awesome! I should thank Ivy for giving me these … she had no choice, of course, but maybe I could give her a couple hundred dollars of my prize money as a thank you gift."
Ub gazed around in wonder at the forest and the night sky; he smiled happily to himself.
"I could get used to star gazing; it's indeed beautiful." Mused Ub. "Now, where is Orion's Belt?"
(Confessional: Let there be sight!)
Ub: Turns out Ivy is best friends with a really genius inventor back in her home-town. I think he's called Felix Fine; I know since I was asking Ivy about her home life last night before she left for her teams' elimination ceremony and, given my power, she was willing to tell me some stuff … obviously nothing too personal of course. These sunglasses are called V.E Sunglasses; the V.E stands for Vision Enhancing. As long as I am wearing these I am able to see like normal person … it's AWESOME! This will definitely help me win this contest and get my well-deserved five hundred thousand. Ivy didn't want to part with them, but my blackmail soon convinced her.
Ivy: Things have gone from bad to even worse … now Ub can see and I won't be able to evade him at all. Not just that … but those sunglasses are only a prototype; they can cause real harm if they are worn for too long at a time. Why else do you think I'm not wearing them? I'd rather not risk my health … but mean as it may be, perhaps Ub doesn't need to know the 'side effects' … why do I feel guilty? I really shouldn't!
Charles and Sampson were meeting a distance from camp next to the path to the neutral zone. Charles wanted to talk about their alliance, but Sampson didn't seem too interested in talking.
"Dude, why did you bring me out here? I want to go to sleep." Frowned Sampson. "Whatever this is, can't it wait until the morning?"
"I don't think so." Said Charles simply.
"… Ok, fine, what do you want?" Sighed Sampson. "If you want to discuss girls then please don't; I'm asexual and I'm not interested in dating somebody."
"So, you don't think Zanna is pretty?" Asked Charles.
"On the contrary she's very attractive; I just don't feel love for her." Stated Sampson.
"Hey, she's my girlfriend and not yours!" Exclaimed Charles.
"… Just get to the point." Sighed Sampson.
"Oh, right! Well, I was thinking that we should think of some kind of plan for the coming days. It isn't going to be easy since we are on the outs, but I think that we can pull this off." Said Charles as he started to pace. "What should our first move be?"
"Avoid elimination?" Said Sampson.
"Yes! But, how?" Continued Charles.
"Why don't we just join up with some other people; I honestly don't care who as long as it's not Otis and Donald." Said Sampson with a shudder. "Those two suck."
"Noted. Hmm … maybe we could both work with Ub and Harvey, but have our own separate alliance so if it came down to the four of us we'd be able to keep ourselves safe. Ub trusts me, I think, so it probably won't be too hard." Decided Charles. "Thoughts?"
"If it gets me back to bed quicker, let's do it." Shrugged Sampson. "I don't really mind or care what we do as long as it doesn't get me eliminated."
"Then it's settled. We'll fuse alliances tomorrow. Until then, let's go to the Neutral Zone." Said Charles cheerfully.
"… Why would I do that when I could he sleeping?" Asked Sampson with a groan.
"Zanna will most likely be there; she deserves to know about our alliance. Plus, she can tell us what her team is doing at the moment, and who got voted out." Explained Charles.
"… Eh, fine, I'll come." Shrugged Sampson. "But if you two are gonna kiss, do it in the bushes where I can't see."
"Zanna's a good girl; she won't glomp me." Insisted Charles. "Just a kiss on the cheek and stuff."
"… Fine, let's get going." Sighed Sampson in resignation.
"Yay!" Cheered Charles before composing himself. "I mean, sure, yeah, whatever."
Sampson just rolled his eyes as he and Charles set off for the Neutral Zone.
(Confessional: They're both nerds, but that's the only similarity they have.)
Charles: I already told Zanna that I'm in an alliance with Sampson, but she should know the main plan and, quite frankly, I love seeing her smiling face. Zanna hasn't been involved in Ub's wheeling and dealing very much, and Ub did say she's part of our alliance … so yeah, we have things to talk about. Hopefully Sampson will be nice to her, or at least indifferent. Boy, I feel a buzz in my head … guess I'm really getting the hang of strategy, huh? Woohoo!
Sampson: I'll let Charles lead; he'd better at it and if this goes wrong it's not me getting the flak for it. If all else fails I've got my Harold Idol to fall back on.
Donald and Otis were away from everyone else and were sitting in a tree. Otis had told Donald that they needed to discuss 'something very important' and Donald had figured he might as well hear what Otis had to say.
"So, what is it you wanted to talk about?" Asked Donald.
"Two important things. First of all, when are you going to ask Yoko out?" Asked Otis. "Don't deny you like her because it is soooooo obvious you think she's hotter than the sun. I'm sure she'd agree to go out with you."
"Dude, I do like her, but I'm trying to separate romance from the game. It'll make everything go crazy." Stated Donald.
"Nothing wrong with that." Shrugged Otis. "You might want to ask her out soon though, or somebody else might."
"Like who?" Asked Donald.
"Me. I mean, Yoko's quite cute and she's single too." Grinned Otis in a very teasing sort of way.
"Don't you dare! I love Yoko and you are not taking my dream girl away from me!" Barked Donald.
"If you ask her out then I won't. I don't hit on taken girls." Shrugged Otis. "But I might make my move if you don't. Giggity goo!"
"… You're impossible." Sighed Donald. "And yet you are somehow my best friend."
"I make the impossible become possible." Grinned Otis.
"… What else is it you wanted to talk about?" Asked Donald.
"I don't think we should vote off Sampson next time." Stated Otis.
"… Why not? He's a free boot and he has it in for us." Said Donald in confusion.
"Because I think he has an idol. It's the only way he would be able to admit his secret and not feel worried about being voted off. He clearly wants to win, so he obviously has some kind of back-up plan. He's definitely got either the Chris Idol or the Harold Idol."
"… Bugger me! That's not good." Winced Donald. "Wait, how do we know it's the real idol?"
"We don't." Said Otis simply. "But are we really gonna risk it? We should trick him into playing his idol, and vote for somebody else. Then he'd have no shield left."
"… Do you have a PhD or something? You're a genius." Said Donald in admiration.
"Nah, just got a severe case of ADHD." Replied Otis. "To conclude what he talked about … ask Yoko out already!"
"Ok, I'll try. Can't let her get corrupted by you." Sighed Donald wearily.
(Confessional: Donald/Yoko or Otis/Yoko … discuss!)
Otis: I'm not gonna ask Yoko out, cute as she may be. I'm just trying to help Donald grow a pair and ask her out; he'll thank me for it later. Remember kids, strategy is good and all, but make sure to have fun and not turn into a robot.
Donald: … Otis is the most annoying awesome best friend I've ever had. At least he keeps me motivated. So, if we're not voting out Sampson … who else should we vote for?
(Tough Tuna)
Penta, Quadesh and Yoko were in the shelter; Edith, Ivy and Gilda were spending the night in the cave, Kelly and Tilly were elsewhere and Zanna had left a few minutes ago because she 'had to do something somewhere else'. The wind was blowing, but the shelter was holding up against it without any difficulty. Quadesh sighed which caught the attention of Penta and Yoko.
"Something on your mind?" Asked Penta.
"Why is it that just about every time I'm up for elimination I get votes and I'm one of the last ones to be declared safe?" Asked Quadesh. "I will admit I can be a mean jerk, but I still treat people well if I can. Are people scared of me or something? I'm about as scary as horror movies from the fifties."
"I don't know; maybe because of what you apparently did to Betilla?" Suggested Yoko.
"I didn't do that, for the last time." Muttered Quadesh. "Where would I even get the bacon? I didn't bring any to this island with me; I think it was on the contraband list."
"I believe that it wasn't you … though I also don't know who did it." Admitted Penta. "Nobody on the team is exactly obvious about being bad or cutthroat. And sadly, I'm not very good at detecting if somebody is lying to me; all I can do is trust their word and use logic."
"Why would people want to be mean and horrible? Winning isn't everything." Said Yoko quietly.
"One word. Greed." Said Quadesh simply. "Only one can win and some people are more willing to go to immoral depths than others. There are some sick people in the world."
"What do you mean?" Asked Yoko.
"It's not important." Interrupted Penta.
"If she wants to know about crime and evil than she can." Stated Quadesh.
"But it'd shatter her worldview." Hissed Penta. "She's too innocent."
"You're not her mother." Said Quadesh calmly.
"But I am kind of a sister figure; Yoko sees me as such and the feeling is mutual." Explained Penta. "Please, don't tell her such things…"
"… Ok, fine, I won't." Assured Quadesh.
"Guys, I'm right here." Said Yoko. "What are you keeping from me?"
"You're better off not knowing." Said Penta gently.
"Penta is probably right." Agreed Quadesh.
"… Fine." Pouted Yoko. "So, now that Betilla is gone … what now?"
"Same as always; win immunity, or if we lose then ensure that somebody else gets the boot." Said Quadesh simply. "I am not going to lose; daddy would be very disappointed in me if I lost too early, and I hate it when he's disappointed in me."
"I know how you feel." Nodded Yoko. "When Grandmaster Fong punishes me, I get more upset from him being mad at me than the pain of the punishment itself."
"It's the same with me. Why does somebody being disappointed in somebody feel worse than getting yelled at or hit?" Pondered Penta. "I just don't get it."
"Talking about our families makes me miss my daddy even more." Sighed Quadesh.
(Confessional: Homesickness can be just as bad as lovesickness.)
Yoko: When I almost asleep I heard Penta and Quadesh talking about something called the internet. It seems Donald's PSP has some kind of 'Internet Explorer App' on it … maybe that can teach me about the things I desire to know about?
Quadesh: I feel so homesick lately; it's not a nice feeling. I wonder how daddy is going without me. Mum is always at work till late at night, so he might not have much company. I miss how we often watch The Amazing World of Gumball together with a bowl of ice cream each…
Penta: I hope that whoever framed Quadesh will not strike again. It's unnerving that somebody is a lot meaner than they seem and I have no idea who it is. I just have to hope they won't go after me or Yoko; and speaking of my 'sister', I know she's allowed to make her own way through life … but I don't want her innocence to be shattered, I'm not sure how she'd react to learning of the worst evils of the world.
Edith, Gilda and Ivy were sitting in the cave trying to keep warm. They had two blankets and since there were three of them it was certain one was without a blanket. Edith did not have one and was shivering a little.
"Gee wiz, I'm starting to understand why many people hate camping." Sighed Edith. "Roughing it in the woods isn't much fun; it's cold, uncomfortable and I think a stick is poking into my butt."
"That's nature for you." Said Gilda. "It's not as magical and awesome as The Lorax makes it out to be. It's nice to look at, but not so nice to be stuck in."
"Don't let Betilla hear you say that." Said Edith before sighing. "It's really weird without Betilla being here."
"Yeah, it is. But we've got to keep going and we've got to try harder now." Mumbled Ivy. "It isn't gonna be easy…"
"Yeah, she was the leader … sort of. I mean, I founded the group so technically I'm the leader, but Betilla is a natural leader; it's what makes her special." Sighed Gilda. "I wish I was special…"
"What do you mean Gilda? What makes you think you aren't special?" Asked Edith.
"Yeah, what Edith said." Added Ivy.
"I don't know, I guess I just feel like I'm dull, uninteresting, stupid and basically a blank slate. What is it that makes me special?" Mumbled Gilda. "I can act, but when I act it's not really me, it's me playing the role of somebody else. I just want to be special and remembered. I truly fear being forgotten about in the abyss of time…"
"But Gilda, you are a special girl." Insisted Ivy. "If anybody is the stupid one it's me."
"How long have you felt like this?" Asked Edith gently.
"Quite a while. I just … I play characters so much that my normal self is really undeveloped, flat and plain as beige. The family doctor calls it an Inferiority Complex. I always feel like I'm not good enough and that everyone else is better than me. Kinda the opposite of Alfie in a way." Explained Gilda. "Heck, that's why I was always changing my personality for most of my stay so far."
"… What do you mean?" Asked Edith.
"I think Gilda means she was playing different 'types' of roles to find one that made her feel special." Stated Ivy.
"Exactly." Nodded Gilda. "I was playing out 'Edgic Edits' such as a quiet nice girl, a bland girl, a mean schemer, a hero, a crazy girl and even a quiet grump. None of them made me feel special though, so I just gave up on playing the edits eventually."
"What's an Edgic?" Blinked Ivy.
"Just look it up online." Said Gilda. "Point is, I always feel like the real me is useless … I tend to play characters to escape feeling upset, even if just for a little while. Gosh, I'm so pathetic I can't even face my own problems head on and I just become somebody else, sort of, in order to feel better. Why be boring and bland Gilda Switch when I can be a princess, a hero, a travelling bard, a soldier or even an evil mannequin cowgirl? It's … hard…"
"But Gilda, you are special. You're you, and nobody could be you as good as you can be. In fact, you're a great actress and the fact you can play so many characters with such ease is amazing. You could have a wonderful future in acting and theatre. You are special, you just don't realise it." Assured Edith gently. "Back me up on this Ivy, isn't Gilda a very special girl?"
"Totally." Nodded Ivy. "You may not think it Gilda, but you're one of the most interesting and cool people I have ever met. You're a strong willed warrior, don't let anybody tell you different."
Gilda was silent for a moment before she pulled Edith and Ivy into a hug.
"Thanks girls, you're really great friends." Smiled Gilda. "Keep in mind I'm not gonna get over this inferiority complex in a day, but … your kind words do help. I am grateful."
"That's what friends and alliance members are for, we look out for each other." Grinned Edith cheerfully.
"… Indeed." Said Ivy quietly.
(Confessional: Friends to the end!)
Gilda: Those two are really great gals to have as friends. There may come another time where I'll feel depressed, but I'm sure they'll there to comfort me if need be. We're going to the final three, I'll ensure it. I like it when people are sympathetic to my so called 'condition' than telling me to 'suck it up' … the latter response really does hurt.
Edith: Hopefully Gilda feels better now; it's never nice to feel upset or sad. And I'd probably be totally lost if the alliance leader wasn't able to lead me. I mean, I'm never the leader in group activities at school. Also, it may just be me, but Ivy seems to be feeling really depressed now … I hope she'll be ok.
Ivy: … If only I could follow my own words of comfort…
"Brr, it's rather chilly." Shivered Edith. "Wish I had a blanket."
"… Would you like to share with me?" Offered Ivy. "I mean, at least then nobody would be cold, and you're my best friend so…"
"Thanks Ivy, I owe you one." Said Edith gratefully as she got under the blanket next to Ivy.
"You're welcome." Assured Ivy while trying not to blush.
"Hey girls, looks like we've got some company." Noted Gilda.
Kelly walked up to the cave looking slightly nervous; she composed herself before speaking.
"Hey girls, mind if I talk to you?" Requested Kelly.
"What do you want? I thought you were going to vote for Quadesh, but thanks to you Betilla is gone." Frowned Gilda.
"I know, and believe me when I say I'm sorry. But, you guys had an alliance of four and that's too many for the rest of us to ignore. If our team got small enough then you'd control every vote, and I didn't want to risk it. Really, I'm sorry about Betilla, but my family is poor and needs the money and I'm not gonna let them down." Explained Kelly calmly. "Besides, I'm not the deciding vote. Other people voted Betilla … heck, it could have been somebody casting a throwaway vote for 'fun' and thus Betilla having five votes, Quadesh having four and Tilly having one since she was the second to last to be declared safe. I played a part, but I'm admitting to it and I wasn't alone."
"Ok, we forgive you, right girls?" Nodded Ivy. "We've all done things that are definitely worse anyway. No sense staying mad when it wasn't your fault, right?"
"I agree, it sucks that Betilla is out, but we'll have to let it go or risk becoming pariahs." Relented Gilda.
"… Sure, what they said." Nodded Edith.
"Thanks for hearing me out girls; glad we're not enemies." Said Kelly. "See you all in the morning."
"Don't you want to sleep in the cave with us?" Asked Gilda.
"Nah, wind doesn't bother me, and I prefer to sleep alone anyway." Assured Kelly. "And as much as I like cuddles, it'd be awkward if we were all packed close together like tinned sardines."
With that being said Kelly took her leave and the three remaining girls of the CPN alliance settled down for sleep.
(Confessional: Damage control?)
Kelly: I was being totally honest, I am sorry I went against them … but I had no choice. Though I'm not admitting that I covered Betilla in bacon; they might hit me and I really don't like being hit. I was also going to try to find some idols with the cover of the dark night, and I can't do that if I'm sleeping in a cave. Hopefully this has erased the negative feelings of the so called 'CPN Alliance'.
Ivy: I've come to a conclusion … my life is ruined no matter what happens; I feel miserable on this island and my secret could be exposed any time at all, and back home I'm certainly going to be in really big trouble. Since I have no way out of a terrible fate … maybe I could try to flirt with Edith a little; I think she'd possibly still like me if she knew my secret … maybe. Plus, Geoff turned her down and now she's available … hopefully one thing will go right for me this summer…
Tilly was sitting on the branch of a tree looking annoyed and thinking to herself about how the previous ceremony had gone.
"Mierda! Why is Quadesh still here? I was going to be a swing vote and secure my spot on this team, but this ruins that plan and it's pissing me off! Guess I'll have to continue using Quadesh as a shield from the votes and subtly causing trouble … this is still annoying though…" Thought Tilly with a frown. "At least somebody annoying got the boot, even if Betilla had a nice bum."
Tilly then heard footsteps and looked down from her branch and saw Zanna walking by.
"Hey Zanna, where are you going?" Asked Tilly.
"Oh, I'm heading off to the neutral zone to meet up with my boyfriend." Explained Zanna. "Charles is such a hunk; if I'm lucky he might give me kiss."
"Well, have fun." Nodded Tilly. "And be careful; there's a monster burger on the loose."
"I'll be careful." Assured Zanna. "Say, why are you in that tree instead of sleeping in the shelter?"
"I like to climb trees; I'm able to think easier when I'm in one." Replied Tilly. "Plus, I have a nice view of the camp. Just a personal thing."
"Ok then, continue as you were." Smiled Zanna as she took her leave.
After Zanna left Tilly thought to herself.
"Zanna has no allies; maybe I can get her on my side." Pondered Tilly.
(Confessional: The dark side!)
Tilly: Last night really messed up my plans, and I bet my bros are laughing at me. They better not be! But this sexy Spanish girl has plenty of tricks up her sleeve, I promise you that!
(Neutral Zone)
Charles and Sampson were sitting on a bench in the Neutral Zone talking to each other.
"So, when is Zanna going to get here?" Asked Sampson.
"Hopefully soon, though she may have decided to go to bed and not come and see me." Stated Charles.
"… You mean there is a chance that she won't come and that we are here for no reason?" Said Sampson flatly.
"Yes." Nodded Charles.
"Dammit." Muttered Sampson. "Can I go back to the treehouse so I can sleep?"
"Hang on, we'll give Zanna ten more minutes. She might just be a little late." Assured Charles.
"Bugger me…" Muttered Sampson.
"Charles, are you here?" Called Zanna as she arrived.
"Over here Zanna!" Called Charles. "See Sampson, I told you she'd show up."
Zanna approached the boys and greeted Charles with a hug and a kiss. After they parted she noticed Sampson.
"What is Sampson doing here?" Asked Zanna.
"Well Zanna, as I told you before, Sampson is now my ally. I figured I should let you know of our main plan at the moment and where things stand on the Strong Squids, since Ub did say you were a member of our alliance and never went back on his word." Stated Charles. "Me and Sampson are merging our alliance with Ub's with a side alliance between us. That way we'll be guaranteed to be safe if it comes down to the four of us on our team. Thoughts?"
"Makes sense to me." Nodded Zanna. "Anything I can do to help?"
"Do your best in challenges so I won't be panicking in case you get voted off." Smiled Charles. "Your presence makes the game worthwhile."
"Oh you." Giggled Zanna with a blush.
"Gag me." Muttered Sampson.
"Sampson, be nice." Frowned Charles. "We're allies and you have to accept that me and Zanna have something special between us."
"I can accept that, I just don't like it when you get sweet and sugary. It's ok in small doses spread apart, but sometimes it can get a bit much, know what I mean." Stated Sampson. "Anyway, nice to meet you Zanna. I'm Sampson Knight. Now, can I go back to camp so I can get to sleep? I won't last much longer and I seriously doubt you want to drag me back to camp."
"Point taken. Fine, you can go. I just thought you'd like to get to know my girlfriend since if all goes well you'll be seeing more of her since we're going to the end." Replied Charles.
"I appreciate the sentiment, but I'll pass. Maybe tomorrow." Yawned Sampson. "Night."
Sampson took his leave back to camp which left Zanna and Charles alone.
"So … want to hunt for idols?" Offered Charles.
"Hmm … how about we cuddle while I fish?" Suggested Zanna.
"That works too!" Grinned Charles cheerfully.
(Confessional: Love is awesome … if only Sampson gave a damn.)
Sampson: Sleep is important, we can't do without it. I have no gal to snuggle with so why should I stick around? Besides, they probably wanted to be alone since three is a crowd. Eh, anything to get me to bed quicker.
Charles: I'm starting to see why Ub likes making game plans, it's really exciting! I feel so giddy! Plus, cuddling up Zanna while she casts out her line is always heavenly; one of life's simple pleasures.
Zanna: I'm a great fisher and I hooked me a great guy. (Zanna giggles). My strategy is, as always, to lay low and not make enemies … but hey, if spending time with Charles means I may be a slight target, then so be it. I'm a total rebel and stuff.
(Strong Squids)
Then next morning the eight member of the Strong Squids were awoken early by Courtney.
"Rise and shine soldiers, we have a big day ahead of us! Out of the tree house and be here by 0800 hours … that means right now!" Announced Courtney with a mega phone.
One by one the tweens climbed down the ladder, some much more willingly than others.
"I'm ready!" Declared Harvey eagerly.
"That makes one of us." Muttered Larry. "I'm not much of a morning person."
"Why'd you wake us up Courtney? I was having a nice dream." Yawned Donald.
"I have an announcement to make, and it concerns all of you." Stated Courtney. "Chris is currently waiting for you at the neutral zone."
"Well, we don't want to keep him waiting." Nodded Charles.
"I say we do, no skin off my bones if he gets annoyed and flustered." Shrugged Ub.
"Quiet, I'm not done talking yet." Frowned Courtney. "Chris wants three of you to go to the neutral zone for something big … just three of you."
"Do we get to choose which of us go?" Asked Sampson. "If it's a challenge then I'd rather not go."
"No, you don't. It's all random." Stated Courtney as she took out a bag. "Everyone reach into this bag and take out a coin, but don't look at it or let anyone see it. Once everyone has a coin I shall give you further instructions."
The guys lined up and took a coin one by one. As instructed none of them looked at the coin that they had picked up. Once everyone had a coin Courtney continued speaking.
"If you have a silver one then stay where you are. If you have a gold one then you must head off to the neutral zone." Instructed Courtney. "Ok everyone, you may look at your coins."
Everybody looked at their coins; a moment later Donald, Larry and Xadrian stepped forwards since they had picked the golden coins.
"Ok you three, head off to the neutral zone and await further instructions.
"Fine by me, see ya'll lat'r." Nodded Xadrian. "C'mon guys, we gots a chall'nge or somethun' ta g't to. Ah th'nk we c'n do a mighty fine j'b at it."
"Hopefully it'll be over quick so I can get some more sleep." Mumbled Larry.
"See you guys in a while; if that monster comes looking for me, do not tell it where I am." Requested Donald.
"Will not do." Saluted Otis.
After Donald, Larry and Xadrian were gone Courtney turned to the five boys.
"As for you five, you may do mas you please, for now." Said Courtney as she took her leave.
"Well, may as well get breakfast started." Decided Harvey. "Who wants apples?"
"I'd rather have fish." Requested Charles.
(Confessional: I'd like chips with that.)
Xadrian: If its s'm kinda import'nt annoucem'nt we gots ta lsit'n to, it might be a chall'nge … or m'ybe it's a team sw'p … if th't is true ah really hope th't ah ain't g'nna have ta p't up with B'tilla.
Charles: I wonder what the announcement is … maybe the merge? Or maybe we're moving back to the main camp; that'd be nice since I'm no nature loving muscular lumberjack.
Ub: I'd have kinda liked to hear first-hand what the announcement is; for all I know it may be something only those three are told about and don't have to tell the rest of us. I don't want to lose my power; I'm in the perfect spot and I don't want it to be ruined.
Courtney: Darn, I was hoping Otis would get a gold coin. It'd be nice to not have to put up with him anymore.
(Tough Tuna)
The girls had also been woken up early; currently they were awaiting an announcement from Geoff which he claimed that 'almost as important as partying'. The only thing stalling the announcement was that Geoff needed to tie his shoes. The fact he was having some difficulty with this was making some of the girls impatient.
"Come on Geoff, don't leave us in suspense." Requested Kelly. "Tying show laces isn't that hard, right?"
"It can be; I only mastered it a couple of weeks ago." Admitted Gilda.
"… Same." Sighed Quadesh in shame. "Can we hurry this announcement up? We haven't even had breakfast yet."
"Yeah, I'm hungry; and with Betilla gone it's actually safe to eat meat again." Added Tilly.
"Do any of us actually know how to hunt?" Asked Gilda.
"It's just fishing; anyone can do it." Shrugged Tilly.
"Especially me." Grinned Zanna cheerfully.
At that moment Geoff finished tying his shoe laces and stood up to give the announcement.
"Ok girls, here's the deal. Chris is currently at the Neutral Zone and is going to be giving some kind of special announcement … but the catch is that only three of you are going to be allowed to hear it. Three guys from the Strong Squids are going to be there as well to hear it since Courtney is making this announcement to the boys, most likely at this very moment." Explained Geoff cheerfully.
"Sounds fun." Nodded Edith.
"How do we decide who gets to hear the announcement?" Asked Penta. "Is it a first come first serve kind of thing?"
"If that's the case then I volunteer to hear what Chris has to say." Said Kelly quickly.
"That's not how it works dudettes." Chuckled Geoff as he took out a cloth bag. "I want you all to liner up and take a coin from this bag, but don't look at it until I tell you to, ok? If you have a silver coin you can stay here, but if you get a gold coin you have to go to the neutral zone to hear the announcement."
"Sounds fair." Nodded Penta. "Any idea what the announcement could be Yoko?"
Yoko just mumbled quietly in response.
"Yoko, are you ok?" Asked Penta.
Penta turned to face Yoko and saw that something was definitely wrong; Yoko wasn't smiling and looked quite depressed and somewhat pale, as though she was feeling scared in addition to sad.
"It's nothing, don't worry…" Mumbled Yoko with a sniffle.
Geoff also looked concerned, but before he could say anything the girls had lined up and were taking their coins. Soon each of them had one.
"Err … ok dudettes, you may now look at your coins." Said Geoff while still looking concerned about Yoko.
The girls opened their palms and look at their coins. Seeing that they had picked out a golden coin Edith, Ivy and Tilly stepped forwards.
"Ok girls, you three can head off to the Neutral Zone. Best to not keep Chris waiting." Suggested Geoff.
"Ok Geoff, see you later." Nodded Edith. "C'mon gals, let's get going."
"Ok, I'm coming." Nodded Ivy as she followed after Edith. "See you later Gilda."
After the three girls had left down the path to the Neutral Zone and were out of sight Geoff continued speaking.
"The rest of you can chillax and do what you want until further notice; enjoy the free time while it lasts." Smiled Geoff.
"I'll try to." Nodded Quadesh. "Hey Zanna, think you could get us some fish for breakfast?"
Zanna seemed to have decided to do this without being asked and had already cast her line and settled down on the shore of the river.
"Hopefully there are no piranhas in that river." Mused Penta. "Say, Yoko … are you alright?"
Yoko was silent for a moment before she spoke.
"Penta, why are humans evil?" Asked Yoko quietly.
"… What do you mean?" Asked Penta in confusion.
"War, crime, racism, enslavement … why?" Asked Yoko quietly.
Penta was stunned and suddenly felt very shaky; Yoko knew all the things Penta had hoped she wouldn't have to learn in one go. Before Penta could reply Yoko took out Donald's PSP he had loaned her and passed it to Penta.
"If you see Donald, please return this to him. Tell him that I enjoyed the games, but the internet app was too much for me…" Sniffled Yoko as she passed the PSP to Penta and quickly dashed off.
Penta was silent for a moment before she growled and her eye twitched.
"That rich boy has some explaining to do if he knows what is good for him." Scowled Penta. "That idiot; how could he not predict this possibility … and how could I not predict it either…"
(Confessional: Donald, you're screwed…)
Penta: Why did this have to happen … Yoko was not ready to know of all this bad stuff, and all at once too. Now she's really shaken and looks scared of everyone … I know Donald didn't do this on purpose, but he has to take some blame for this. Man, how am I gonna fix this? I may be kinda good at comforting people, but this might be out of my league…
Yoko: Grandmaster Fong always said that every person has a kind side and you just have to be nice to them to bring it out … but the monsters I now know about … they have no good side. Is everybody like this? Is everybody really horrible deep down, even those I care about and love? … I wish Grandmaster Fong was here … I don't feel safe … I was a fool to think everybody was nice and kind…
Kelly: I wonder what the announcement is … hopefully nothing that will cause me any problems. I'm on thin ice with the CPN's, I don't need any other problems throwing a wrench into my strategies. Not only that, but I need to think of who I'm going to target next; I can't let anybody get a step ahead of me … but question is, who needs to go right now?
Geoff: I was hoping Edith wouldn't pick a gold coin; I wanted her to stay on the team. Also, what's up with Yoko? She looks totally sad … think a party would cheer her up?
(Neutral Zone)
Chris stood in the Neutral Zone tapping his foot and waiting for the campers to arrive. He was hoping they wouldn't take much longer since he had a massage scheduled in ten minutes.
"When are those kids gonna get here. There is a time and a place to be fashionably late." Muttered Chris. "Like, at my ex-girlfriend's dad's funeral."
At that moment the three Squids and three Tuna arrived in the clearing and approached Chris. The host looked pleased they had arrived and began to speak.
"Good to see you guys are finally hear. You are going to be taking part is something big. Any guesses what my special announcement is?" Asked Chris.
"We're being put into a new team?" Guessed Edith.
"We're each getting an idol?" Guessed Donald hopefully.
"We're all getting voted off." Mumbled Ivy.
"We're immune from the next vote?" Guessed Larry.
"You're admitting you love Chef?" Grinned Tilly.
"Ah th'nk th't we're switchin' teams." Stated Xadrian.
"One of you is right … and that person is Xadrian." Stated Chris. "Edith, Ivy and Tilly … you guys are now on the Strong Squids. And Donald, Larry and Xadrian … you guys are now on the Tough Tuna. You may now head to your new camps."
There was a brief stunned silence.
"Oh dear, I hope Gilda will be ok by herself." Said Edith in worry.
"Oh no…" Whispered Ivy in panic.
"Well … that was unexpected." Noted Tilly.
"Aw crap…" Muttered Larry. "But then again, maybe I can see Penta."
Donald just smiled and looked pleased.
"Ah th'nk th't it's safe ta say th't th'ngs'ar g'nna be mighty different r'l soon." Mused Xadrian. "So sh'll we g't goin'?"
"Might as well." Nodded Donald. "Unless any of you feel like being fashionably late."
"No time for being late, today is a challenge day with an elimination, so you might want to get in good with your new team mates." Advised Chris.
"See ya!" said Tilly as she dashed off towards the Strong Squids camp.
"Wait up Tilly!" Called Edith as she jogged off after the twisty girl with Ivy trailing behind her.
"Well, we'd best not keep the ladies waiting." Decided Donald as he set off for the camp sight of the Tough Tuna with Larry and Xadrian following behind him.
(Confessional: What a twist! Now for the reactions.)
Edith: On one hand this could be fun and I still have my BFF Ivy with me … but now Gilda is all alone on the Tough Tuna and I can't hang out with Geoff … as a friend may I add. Well, hopefully the boys will be friendly. And if not, I'll have to earn it. Mum says the quickest way to earn a boys trust is to make them smile, so maybe giving them some candy could help? … Maybe Ivy has a better idea…
Xadrian: Ah k'nda 'spected this might be wh't Chris h'd in mind, so ah ain't too shocked. Pappy always says ta be pr'pared, so that what ah am g'nna be. Ah gots some fake idols ta scatt'r round the n'w camp site, so ah th'nk ah c'n cope. Plus, ah still gots mah bud L'rry as a team mate … and b'tween ya'll and me, ah th'nk he's gonna be mighty h'ppy ta be on a team wit' Penta. (Xadrian chuckles).
Tilly: Eh, no big deal. I can join up with Harvey and maybe Ub's alliance as well. If things get tough I can just flirt my way to safety, that and ask Harvey to help me out, and I know he would. (Tilly twists her legs around each other). This is no hurdle to cross, it's just a small extension to the marathon.
Donald: It's a shame I can't continue my alliance with Otis, at least in the traditional sense, but I can still meet up with him in the neutral zone. As for being on a new team … this is convenient; I can work with Yoko, and by extension Penta and maybe Kelly. Heck, I may even be able to spend some quality time with Yoko; no strategy, just bonding. Still, it's friggin annoying I can't enjoy the crate of food anymore. Well, time to get to work and get myself 'in' with the girls, or failing that make somebody else a target.
Ivy: No! No! No! This is really bad … now I'm gonna be on Ub's team and I'll never be able to keep away from him! He's gonna really torture me emotionally, even more than he already has. (Ivy starts to tremble and shiver in fear) Please … somebody, anybody … help me…
Larry: I can see two immediate advantages to being on the Tough Tuna. The first is the pillows and blankets … the second is Penta, and she can help me clean up by bad attitude. Still, I bet some people on the team are going to annoy me … most of all that vegetable loving girl … urgh…
(Strong Squids)
The five boys were sitting around the unlit campfire waiting for the rest of their team to return; Ub looked a tad impatient which Sampson noticed.
"Bee in your bonnet Ub?" Asked Sampson.
"I'm waiting for the others to get back, with difficulty. I need to know what the announcement is, we all do. It might be something critically important. Knowledge is power in this game." Stated Ub calmly. "It is hard to be patient when the thing you are waiting for is something both important and a mystery."
"You mean like waiting to be old enough to know how babies are made?" Asked Otis.
"… Yeah, let's go with that." Shrugged Ub.
"It'd be nice to have a little sidekick to raise in my image; I mean, can you imagine what two of me could accomplish?" Grinned Otis.
"I could, but I'd rather not." Winced Sampson.
"How are babies made anyway? It's one area of biology that is a mystery to me. All I know is that it involves a boy and a girl." Said Charles thoughtfully. "So, should we light the fire? The wind may have died down, but for all we know we may be in for a cold night."
"At least the tree house is warm … too bad the girls claimed the pillows and blankets before we could." Frowned Harvey. "It's really stupid that we weren't given any at the start of being left out here."
"It's wilderness survival; blankets are not standard issue." Stated Sampson. "Though I wish they were."
"Why not just cuddle yourselves? Snuggling makes people warm apparently." Suggested Otis.
"… I like girls." Said Harvey.
"I said cuddle yourself." Reminded Otis.
"Hey guys, I see some people entering camp … and it looks like some of the girls." Noted Charles. "I wonder what they are doing here … should we greet them."
"Let's simply allow them to come to us; it saves us some walking." Stated Sampson.
"Lazy." Muttered Harvey with a roll of his eyes.
Edith, Ivy and Tilly approached the boys and there were a few moments of silence.
"So … mind telling us why you're here?" Requested Sampson.
"You want the short version or the long version?" Asked Tilly.
"Short version, I have a low attention span." Requested Otis.
"Team swap." Said Tilly simply.
"You mean, you three are on our team now?" Asked Charles. "And … does that mean Donald, Larry and Xadrian are on what was your team?"
"Yes to both of those questions." Nodded Tilly.
"… Well then, let me be the first to welcome you to the Strong Squids." Said Charles cheerfully. "Make yourselves at home; we have a tree house, a crate of fancy food in the treehouse which took a while to get up there, and we have some good team spirit, right guys?"
"We sure do." Nodded Ub. "So, anybody mind telling me which girls are on our team?"
"Edith, Tilly and Ivy." Said Sampson. "I think we could have done much worse in this swap."
"So, what do we do now?" Asked Edith.
"We're doing it." Said Sampson. "Nothing to do and plenty of time to do it."
"… Hey Harvey, wanna go for a walk, just you and me?" Offered Tilly with a wink.
"Totally." Grinned Harvey as he got up and almost tripped over in his haste to follow Tilly.
"I'm gonna just go for a walk here and there. If anybody wants to join me, feel free. Maybe one of the new girls so I can give them a … proper introduction." Said Ub as he got up and walked away.
Ivy trembled for a moment before she followed after him.
"See you later Edith; I'm gonna get a rundown of the team from Ub." Said Ivy as she took her leave with hesitation.
"And I'm going to get an apple." Said Otis simply as he left.
This left Charles, Sampson and Edith around the unlit campfire.
"So … who's team leader?" Asked Edith curiously.
"Your guess is as a good as mine." Stated Sampson.
(Confessional: new dynamics ahoy!)
Ub: Time to assert total control over Ivy. Maybe it's a tad cruel, and believe me that I'm not doing it for fun … but it is very necessary. This is a big opportunity for me. I have Charles, Ivy and Harvey on my side … maybe Tilly as well since Harvey seems to have a 'thing' for her. There is now no doubt in my mind that I have a place in the merge.
Harvey: Awesome! Now I have Tilly as a team mate! Not only is she great to be around, but I bet she can help me stay safe from elimination. I wonder what wise words she has to say to me … hmm. Also, is it just me or is Sampson's laziness starting to become really annoying?
Edith: Ivy's got the right idea; knowing how the team works is a good way of knowing what to do and say. As for me, I think I might know who we could ally with … because let's face it, two votes on a team we only just joined will get us as far as a car with no wheels get down a road.
(Tough Tuna)
The Tough Tuna were also sitting around the camp fire at their campsite and were awaiting for return of their three absent team mates.
"I wonder what the announcement was. Maybe it's something to do with the challenge." Mused Kelly. "Though why would only three of us need to hear it … maybe we have to rescue those three from a cage in the boy's camp or something? Sounds like Chris's style, right?"
"The better question is what is not Chris's style … besides anything that is even remotely good." Stated Quadesh while putting her head in her hands. "I'm bored … say, has anybody seen Yoko?"
"She ran off a short while ago … she needs some alone time." Said Penta uneasily.
"Is she ok?" Asked Quadesh in sudden concern. "Now that I think about it she looked rather pale earlier … is she sick?"
"Not exactly … I'll tell you later." Said Penta with a tone that meant it was something to be kept private.
"Hope she's ok … the kid has grown on me a bit." Admitted Quadesh.
"You're a kid too, as are all of us." Reminded Gilda.
"Well, I'm older than Yoko." Replied Quadesh simply. "Which reminds me; good job catching those fish Zanna, they were great, you're a really good fisher for someone so young."
"Thanks." Smiled Zanna whilst looking quite flattered. "It's what I do."
"Hey girls, I can see some of the boys entering our camp." Stated Gilda. "Maybe it's part of the challenge?"
"Most likely." Nodded Penta. "Let's see what they have to say."
Donald, Larry and Xadrian walked up to the girls. Larry and Penta gazed at each other for a moment before quickly blushing and looking away. Xadrian was the first to speak up.
"Hello ya'll, h'w ya doin'? Ta keep th'ngs simple ah'll g'v ya a quick run d'wn of wh't we're doin' here … it's a team sw'p. Fr'm now on we're ya new team m'ts." Stated Xadrian.
"… Really? Well then, welcome to the team." Greeted Zanna sweetly.
"Where's Yoko?" Asked Donald before looking horrified. "Please tell me she wasn't voted out!"
"Don't worry, she's still here. She just needs some alone time at the moment." Said Quadesh gently. "It was Betilla who got voted off."
"Oh th'nk tha lord!" Said Xadrian in utter relief. "Ah w's worried ah'd have ta sleep wit' one eye op'm lest she att'ck me."
"I agree, she was crazy." Nodded Larry. "So … nice to see you Penta; you're looking nice as the sunny weather."
Penta blushed lightly and resisted the urge to giggle like a schoolgirl. She instead marched up to Donald and grabbed him by his collar.
"I want a word with you." Said Penta darkly. "Quadesh, you need to hear this too since you say you care about Yoko."
"What are you going to me? Let me!" exclaimed Donald.
"It's a precaution to make sure that you don't run." Said Penta calmly whilst tightening her grip.
Donald gulped.
After Penta dragged Donald away with Quadesh following after them Kelly got to her feet.
"Xadrian, mind if I talk to you … in private?" Requested Kelly.
"N't at all." Nodded Xadrian as he and Kelly took their leave. "See ya'll in'na b't L'rry."
This left Larry, Gilda and Zanna by the campfire.
"So … could one of you girls tell me how things work at your camp?" Requested Larry.
"Sure." Nodded Gilda.
(Confessional: Donald's in trouble and Penta is trained in advanced interrogation…)
Donald: How dare Penta manhandle me like that! This jacket wasn't cheap! Ok, maybe she had a reason … but she didn't even tell me what I allegedly did wrong! … I hope she doesn't hurt my poor face, it's my second favourite face after Yoko's.
Kelly: This changes things a bit, but I can cope; compared to living in poverty a team switch is nothing, and that's exactly why I want to speak with Xadrian. We both come from very poor homes, so maybe we could agree to not target each other for a while. I could do with somebody I can relate to if the stress gets to me. And if I have to do what I think I do I might really need a shoulder to cry on.
Xadrian: Kelly seems like a mighty sm'rt g'rl, so ah might's well hear her out. She might ev'n l't somethin' slip which c'd be g'd fur me. Plus, she's mighty pretty, but th't ain't import'nt considerin' mah object've.
Penta: Was I a bit rough with Donald? Maybe. Does he kinda deserve it due to playing a role in making Yoko so upset? Again, maybe. Nobody really deserves to be hurt, but reasonable force is another matter entirely. After all that has happened today, I'd to have a tea party with Larry … and maybe a cuddle if I'm lucky.
Gilda: Crud! My allies are on the other team and now I'm all alone … I need to make myself safe and fast. Maybe rising against the odds and surviving is what makes me special? Man, I need a hug; I can tell today will be stressful…
Quadesh: So my closest ally is now on the other team … why me?
(Strong Squids)
Ub arrived at a small clearing a distance from the camp; he smiled at the nature around him that he was now able to see thanks to the special sunglasses he had gotten from Ivy. After a few moments of enjoying the sight of nature he turned serious again when Ivy caught up with him.
"I must say Ivy, I really am in your debt. These glasses are amazing and it's allowing me to see just how beautiful the world is. I have to say, your blue hair is very nice too. Such a nice colour." Smiled Ub.
"What do you want Ub? I doubt that you wanted to speak to me to talk about colours and nature." Muttered Ivy.
"I suppose a lady must not be kept waiting. Very well, I'll get to the point as quickly as I can." Nodded Ub. "This team switch has made things very good for me, and by extension you as well. I have a lot of allies and my main opposition was switched. Due to this, it's safe to say I will be in the merge … and you will be as well."
Ivy was silent which Ub noticed.
"I would have thought you'd be happy to hear that." Noted Ub. "Regardless, it would be foolish to assume we will never lose again since most surely will. My current alliance, outside of me and you, consists of Harvey, Charles and Tilly. That leaves Edith, Otis and Sampson on the outside, and I think I can get Sampson to side with us. Point is, the next time we lose you will be voting for Edith."
Ivy looked stunned.
"… What?! But … she's my best friend and … err … no! I won't do it!" Refused Ivy.
"Need I remind you of our deal Ivy? I will know if you go against the plan, and if you do I'll have to tell everyone your secret. I'm sorry, but it's how things are. You don't have to listen to me, yet you do anyway." Said Ub calmly.
"But … I love her…" Whispered Ivy with a sniffle.
"I know, and that's what makes this hard for not just you, but me too. But this is a game Ivy; it's a serious competition where people battle with brains and brawn and where things can get very hard and dire. Some people have power, others do not. I'm sorry, but this is the only possible outcome that I can allow." Said Ub sympathetically. "But if you work extra hard in today's challenge you might prolong the inevitable. And, may I add, I'm planning on taking you to the finals with me. You should be happy that you'll get that far."
Ivy was silent for a moment before looking at Ub with an expression of pure hatred.
"Do you think a few sympathetic words make up for what you're doing to me?" Asked Ivy shakily. "Do you know how miserable and depressed I feel? Do you know how much I want to just break down and cry? My life is over, both here and at home … and you're just concerned with getting rich. You were my first kiss … and that fact sickens me."
Ub looked quite shocked, and somewhat guilty, at the amount of venom in Ivy's words.
"I can't show weakness." Thought Ub to himself. "… That is strike one. Two more outbursts like that and the deal if off and I will tell everyone your little secret. Meeting adjourned."
Ub took his leave, gazing in wonder at the nature around him, while Ivy dropped to her knees while looking close to tears.
"This is hell … I'm in the devils domain..." Sniffled Ivy.
(Confessional: Was that guilt Ub was showing?)
Ub: Ivy isn't the only one who feels upset from all this. I'm no monster, of course I feel some remorse for this, but in order for me to win this contest I cannot allow myself to fall victim to my kinder side; I need to keep calm and carry on. Hopefully Ivy will realise it's just for the game and that outside the contest this can all be put in the past where it belongs.
Ivy: I can't let Edith get voted off; she's my friend and the only one I fully trust. Is keeping my sexuality a secret worth letting Edith take the fall? … No, it's not. But, what can I do? Even if I don't vote for her Ub could still get her voted out. All I wanted was a summer to remember … now I'm wishing I could forget everything that has happened to me…
(Tough Tuna)
Penta dragged Donald over to a tree and held him against it. Donald squirmed and kicked for a few moments before stopping and looking at Penta. Quadesh stood off to the side to observe what would happen, and to step in if it went too far.
"… Please don't kill me." Mumbled Donald.
"… What?" Blinked Penta. "Why do you think I'd hurt you?"
"Well, other than the fact you've manhandled me and are now restraining me…" Stated Donald. "Look, if I give you two hundred dollars will you let me go?"
"Bribery is a smart tactic." Nodded Quadesh.
"Quadesh, not helping." Frowned Penta.
"… Sorry." Chuckled Quadesh sheepishly. "Continue."
"Yes, please do. I am curious to know what I did to deserve this." Frowned Donald.
"Look, first thing to know about me is that I am protective of those I care about. Even more so those who are naïve and innocent … and even more so those who are a combination of the previous two factors. Yoko falls into the latter category, and currently she's really upset and I am very upset with you since this mess is, to a fair degree, your fault." Said Penta firmly.
"Yoko's upset? What's wrong with her? Is she ok?" Asked Donald in worry.
"No. She's close to tears and is very gloomy and depressed. Want to know why?" Asked Penta.
"… Enlighten me." Said Donald.
"Yoko, being the curious girl she is, used the internet app on the PSP you loaned her to look up things like war, murder, racism, sexism and all kinds of horrible things. This has totally shattered her worldview and innocence into millions of pieces and she is wondering if anything she ever believed in life is true. Plus, she is now scared to be around the rest of us in fear that we may turn out to be 'evil' and attack her." Explained Penta whilst tightening her grip on Donald.
"You kinda messed up." Said Quadesh with a wince.
"… Oh dear…" Gulped Donald. "I had no idea she would do that. I thought she'd only use the PSP to play video games … why did I make sure my PSP had permanent Wi-Fi anywhere…"
"Well, this mess if your fault … so it's fair that you be the one to fix it." Stated Penta. "I want to see Yoko smile again very soon; and I want you to make like a janitor and clean this mess up. Got it?"
"Y-y-yes!" Nodded Donald in fear. "I'll cheer her up; you can count on me!"
"Good." Nodded Penta. "Yoko is like a sister to me; so if this problem cannot be fixed … there will be consequences…"
"Got it; crystal clear ma'am." Saluted Donald like a soldier. "I'll fix this right away!"
Donald dashed off calling for Yoko while Penta took a deep breath.
"Man … that was intense…" Said Penta with a sigh. "It pains me to me that harsh, but in this case it was reasonable."
Quadesh was wide eyed.
"Remind me to never get on your bad side." Said Quadesh nervously. "I never knew a girl as nice as you could be that harsh … was that your dark side?"
"… That's what happens when a protective girl with military training gets very angry." Said Penta simply.
(Confessional: … I think I need to change my pants…)
Donald: Why am I so bad at being good?! I had noble intentions with giving Yoko my PSP … and now I've ruined everything and have a crazily protective army girl ready to kill me! Between Penta and that Umibozu burger, I don't know what is more vicious!
Penta: Maybe I was a bit harsh … but during an interrogation you can't show weakness or the subject will not talk. Man, things like this make it hard to be girly. Hard to believe tea parties are my hobby, huh?
Quadesh: I feel bad for Donald, but rather him than me. Still, hopefully Yoko will be alright; I know what it's like to lose one's innocence. (Quadesh shudders). I wish I'd never asked how babies are made…
(Strong Squids)
Harvey and Tilly were taking a walk through the woods by the camp site of the Strong Squids. The topic of choice was the team swap.
"It's really nice to have you on the team Tilly; I think I've got some great days ahead of me." Said Harvey cheerfully.
"Likewise." Nodded Tilly. "Not only can we hang out, but since you are allied with Ub, I take it I can join the alliance too?"
"Sure, the more the merrier." Nodded Harvey. "And now that Larry and Donald are on the other team, I don't have to play multiple sides anymore. It was quickly becoming stressful, and less stress is fine by me."
"But now you have allies on the other team. If you can make it to the merge you could be the most powerful camper in the game." Exclaimed Tilly. "How can you not be thinking about that?"
"I'm not really a 'think it through' kind of person, I just go with the flow." Stated Harvey.
"… You're lucky you're hot." Sighed Tilly. "I take it strategy isn't your thing because you think that if you start making moves you'll turn into Heather?"
"Pretty much." Nodded Harvey.
"Harvey … I understand your view, but this is a bit much. If you want to win you need to take an opportunity when it presents itself; just tell yourself 'it's only a game, I really should relax' if your kinder side starts to take over, ok? You'll be gone long before the merge if you don't accept how to play the game." Stated Tilly patiently. "Please, take the game seriously ... for me."
Harvey was silent for a moment before he sighed.
"How could I say no to such an angelic face?" Smiled Harvey. "But I'm not much of a planner; I might need some help."
"That's what I'm here for." Nodded Tilly.
(Confessional: Harvey and strategy? Those things go together like ketchup and ice cream!)
Tilly: I'm playing for myself only … but I do have a soft spot for Harvey; he's cute, funny and rather handsome. Thus, I feel a sense of responsibility to help him out and get him to play the game properly, both for my benefit and moreso his own. That said, can I risk him getting too powerful? What if power goes to his head?
Harvey: So, according to Tilly I have a so called 'majority alliance' on this team, an inner alliance with Tilly and two alliances on the other team … why am I always the last to know about everything? … Would it be appropriate to say that I seem to rock at this game? Only that I think I do.
(Tough Tuna)
Kelly and Xadrian had walked a distance from camp so that they could talk in privacy. Once they got far enough from camp Xadrian spoke.
"So, wh't did ya wanna t'lk about?" Asked Xadrian.
"I'm gonna be honest with you Xadrian, do you feel safe at the moment? Safe from being voted off that is." Asked Kelly.
"Ah dunnu, we ain't lost tha chall'nge y't." Shrugged Xadrian. "B't giv'n ah c'n hunt an' ah am g'd at chall'nges, ah th'nk ah might scrape by."
"But the fact remains you aren't certain. Thus, I have an offer for you." Continued Kelly.
"An alliance?" Guessed Xadrian.
"No, more like a mutual agreement. How about we both not target each other for as long as can be helped. We both come from very poor families and we're in need of the prize money, not because of greed but because we desperately need the money. Since we understand each other's situations, we should agree to leave each other alone in votes." Suggested Kelly.
"Fine by me." Nodded Xadrian. "Ya'll have mah w'rd th't ah won't vote fur ya in the near future. Ya s'm like a nice k'd, who w'd ah be ta make ya'll sad?"
"Thanks Xadrian." Smiled Kelly. "Hopefully we'll win today's challenge; I'd like to just relax tonight rather than have to worry about being voted off."
"Same." Agreed Xadrian. "But ah c'n promise that ah shall p't mah all into tha chall'nge."
"Good to hear." Said Kelly with a pleased nod.
(Confessional: Poor in dollars, rich in sense.)
Kelly: Xadrian and I can relate to each other due to our backgrounds; because of that I don't want him to go since he's somebody who I can talk to personally and he'll be able to understand my problems … in theory. I would talk to Penta, but she's not the one in poverty is she?
Xadrian: Well th't w's c'vienient. At least ah w'n't be v'ted out unanimously. Socialising is, by 'n l'rge, a l't easier th'n ah thought it'd be.
(Strong Squids)
Otis was sitting on a tree stump juggling some fresh apples he had picked from a tree. As he did this he started thinking aloud.
"If an apple a day really keeps the doctor away, then why do vegetarians still need to go to hospital sometimes? Not only that, but what good is a banana phone? Plus, if an orange is an orange, why is a cherry not a red, or a lemon a yellow. The mysteries of life." Mused Otis before he accidently dropped the apples. "Aw crud … five second rule!"
Otis quickly picked up the apples within the boundary of five seconds and started to eat them.
"I'm alone on this team now, but I have back-up plans … and they're gonna be front up very soon, heheheheheh!" Cackled Otis. "I hope Donald asks Yoko out already; if not I'll write some kind of naughty poem and give it to her, but I'll say it[s from Donald. Not so much a nudge as a shove."
"Who are you talking to?" Asked Edith as she walked up.
"Me, myself and I." Replied Otis. "So, Edith is it? What can I do for you? If you want help with education you should ask somebody else; I have a low attention span and I only like doing fun things."
"Don't worry, it's nothing horrible." Assured Edith. "I just wanted to ask what you thought about the team swap."
"It's pretty cool; nice to have some gals on our team at last. Shame Donald is on the other team since he is my best bud, but eh, maybe now he'll finally get around to asking Yoko out." Mused Otis. "So yeah, I'm enjoying it for the most part. It's sure to create chaos and chaos is my thing."
"Well, since you've lost your closest ally due to the swap … would you consider joining up with me and Ivy?" Offered Edith. "We're only two votes, so there's always room for one more. I think we'd all benefit from helping each other. Plus, you know what's going on currently … right?"
"Sure do." Nodded Otis. "The others think I'm a total moron and barely hide their strategies from me. At the moment Ub is the king pin and has Charles and maybe Harvey on his side, and probably Tilly by now. Heck, maybe Sampson if Sammy-boy gets desperate. But I'm not worried; when it comes to order, just sow the seeds of chaos and the whole thing dissolves into anarchy. In short, I'm in."
"Thanks Otis, I appreciate that." Smiled Edith. "So, since you've been on this team longer than me … who do you think we should target?"
"Ub, hands down." Replied Otis. "Not only is he a threat, but he's too serious and he's totally boring with his strategy fetish."
"… What's a fetish?" Blinked Edith.
"I'll tell you when you're older little one." Said Otis while putting on an adult voice.
"We're almost the same age." Pouted Edith.
(Confessional: Those seven months make all the difference.)
Edith: I'm not leader material, but with Gilda on the other team and Ivy feeling really upset lately it's fallen to me to lead the alliance. I can't let my lack of experience stop me, my friends are counting on me! It was nice of Otis to join us; he seems like a cool guy … I hope things work out, and I hope Ivy cheers up a little; it's making me feel sad to see her so upset all the time.
Otis: Since I'm in the minority there is only one course of action to take … act like a total loon and make everyone think I'm a waste of a vote due to being no threat. Luckily for me, acting like a loon is what I do best … other than annoying my principle. Heheheheheheh!
(Tough Tuna)
Donald quickly ran through the forest calling for Yoko; he had to fix the mess he had unintentionally caused and fast, or Penta would really let him have it…
"It's great that Yoko has some loyal friends … but why does she have to be BFF's with the military girl who can get a little nutty with the lengths of her protective nature…" Winced Donald. "Curse my luck … is this how Scrat from Ice Age feels? … Yoko, where are you?!"
"Donald, is that you?" Asked a voice from above.
Donald looked up and a moment later Yoko dropped down from a tree and landed in front of him. Donald immediately saw that she looked pale and upset.
"Yoko my dear, are you ok?" Asked Donald in concern.
"Other than learning that everything I once knew is wrong, I guess I'm ok." Mumbled Yoko. "I was too weak to resist my curiosity. Still, at least I know how evil the world is so that I can be prepared if somebody tries to hurt me."
"But nobody is going to hurt you." Insisted Donald.
"How can I be sure of that? That horrible website told me everything that is evil about our world … I curse the unholy name of Wikipedia…" Whispered Yoko. "But at least I got my wish about knowing all about the real world … I should have been careful what I wished for."
"Yoko, there may be bad things in the world … but there are just as many good things as well." Insisted Donald. "Some people are horrible, but some are really pure and kind. Trust me…"
"I wish I could, and maybe I do … but everything I knew is wrong … what if I'm wrong about my friends as well? I just … I need to be alone for a little while. Maybe we can talk later." Said Yoko as she took her leave without saying another word.
Donald was silent for a moment before groaning.
"I've really screwed up this time." Mumbled Donald. "Penta is gonna kill me … or worse…"
(Confessional: Yoko has had her metaphorical egg of innocence cracked … ok, that was awful…)
Donald: Now I can add 'destroying the innocence of a sweet girl' to my list of failures. Why can't I do anything right? I have to fix this, not just for my own sake, but for Yoko's as well … but what the heck can I do? I can't just walk up to her and say 'Hey Yoko, sorry for ruining your view on the world; we cool' … that'd be a bad idea. Think Donald think, you've got to fix this!
Yoko: I feel really … stressed and scared … and in a way relieved. I'm now ready for anything horrible that could happen to me … but, now I'm scared that I might get seriously hurt by somebody else. Why would people do all of those horrible things; isn't life about helping others and being peaceful and kind? Alas, that view is now dead and gone. Should I try to stay optimistic? … Or should I just submit to the darkness of the world and give up on being cheerful since it is more than likely somebody could easily take away everything I hold dear…
(Strong Squids)
The eight members of the Strong Squids where sitting around the camp fire relaxing and waiting for challenge time to announce.
"Hopefully today's challenge will be a rather simple one; I did not much like yesterday's challenge that much." Said Ub to start conversation.
"I would have thought that rock throwing was a pretty simple challenge. Not really much to it." Stated Harvey.
"Well I'm blind, so it wasn't easy for me. I kept worrying somebody might throw a rock at me." Said Ub.
"I really wish somebody had." Thought Ivy to herself while looking down at her shoes.
"Maybe we'll be visiting one of the landmarks of Wawanawka that Chris mentioned yesterday." Said Charles hopefully. "They could be fun to explore, like a cavern filled with crystals that reflect light in a rainbow kind of way."
"Knowing Chris he would cause a cave in and the challenge would be digging ourselves out the cave." Muttered Sampson.
"Don't jinx it." Warned Edith. "Fate is a harsh mistress."
Otis chuckled which made some of the tweens roll their eyes.
"Not funny dude." Frowned Harvey.
"Actually I was chuckling because I was thinking about road runner cartoons. You really have dirty minds to think I was talking about that; for shame." Scolded Otis with a wag of his finger.
"Weirdo." Muttered Tilly. "Hey guys, here comes Courtney."
Sure enough Courtney walked up to the team; she looked like she had something important to say.
"Something on your mind Miss Courtney?" Asked Charles.
"It's challenge time." Said Courtney in a professional tone. "For today's challenge you are to head to the Challenge Field, and from there head down the pathway with the number #1 sign next to it. Try to win again today; I don't want this team to lose again; try to keep up a winning streak for as long as you can."
"We'll try our best." Saluted Charles. "C'mon guys, let's get going."
"Only because I have no choice." Sighed Sampson as he got to his feet.
"Hey, it could be fun. At the very least it can't be worse than the Brunch of Disgustingness lasts season, right?" Asked Edith.
"We can only hope." Murmured Tilly.
(Confessional: Don't worry, it's not an eating challenge.)
Ub: I can't let the others know I can now see; it'll raise too many questions, and I need to play on their natural kindness to get ahead if the team ends up being just my alliance. Still, let's see how I do at a challenge with my sense of sight on my side.
Ivy: … Well, if anything, at least I don't have to throw challenges anymore…
(Tough Tuna)
The nine members of the Tough Tuna were also sitting around the campfire awaiting the announcement for them to head off to the challenge. Yoko still looked scared and upset which Penta had noticed, hence why she was sitting next to Donald … much to the dismay of the rich boy.
"So, did you try to cheer her up?" Asked Penta.
"I did, but I was unsuccessful." Said Donald nervously. "Look, I need some more time. I will fix this, but it's not gonna be easy."
"You have till tomorrow morning." Said Penta simply.
Donald gulped and shuffled away from Penta. As he did this Gilda spoke up?
"Soooooo … any of you guys got any guesses what the challenge is?" Asked Gilda.
"At this point I'm almost afraid to guess; it might give Chris ideas." Said Quadesh nervously. "He's always watching us, whether we are awake or asleep. He knows everything…"
"… That's actually kinda creepy." Said Kelly in a somewhat disturbed voice.
"Not only th't, but ah th'nk it'll land ya on tha naughty l'st ta compare Chr's wit' Santa." Added Xadrian.
"Good one." Chuckled Penta.
"Th'nks." Nodded Xadrian. "An' in mah op'nion ah beta tha n'xt chall'nge will probably test how we w'rk together, given the team sw'p an' all."
"Sounds like good logic." Nodded Zanna.
"I think we're about to find out if Xadrian is correct; here comes Geoff." Noted Gilda.
Geoff approached the tweens looking quite cheerful; he grinned and began to speak.
"Ok everyone, time for your next challenge. This one is going to take place at one of the landmarks of Wawanawka, so you won't be competing on the challenge field. Instead, head towards the challenge field and then go down the path with the sin next to it that has a number one on it." Instructed Geoff. "Chris is waiting for you there. Good luck kids; try your best, but remember to have fun."
"I'll try to…" Nodded Yoko.
"Ok everyone, let's get going. Now's not the time to be fashionably late … especially since I'm not much of a fashionable girl." Mused Quadesh as she led the team out of camp.
"Ah ain't g't a passion fur fashion." Chuckled Xadrian.
(Confessional: I have a passion for toast!)
Xadrian: Ah gots a feelin' that immun'ty is g'nna be pretty import'nt now th't ah am on'na n'w team. Ah'll try mah hardest as p'r alw'ys … b't will Yoko 'n D'nald be able ta pull their weight? They look mighty ups't today.
Gilda: I'm a sitting duck with my alliance gone due to the swap, so I'm gonna have to make sure that nobody sees me as a target. Acing the challenge should be a good way of accomplishing that. The fact I once played the role of Coltrane the Sitting Duck is irrelevant to my current position, kay?
(The Dark Swamp)
The seventeen tweens had followed the instructions of their camp mentors and presently found themselves at the first Wawanakwa Landmark … and many of the tweens were wishing they weren't there. They were currently group in their teams on a grassy bank (with very dark green grass that differered from the rest of the grass they had seen thus far) and in front of them was a very large marshy swamp. The swamp stretched out quite a distance and the water looked dirty, smelly and quite gross, in addition to it probably being a bad idea to drink. Above the swamp water were some walk ways that looked slightly rickety and unstable, and hanging around here and there were jars held up by some old looking rope.
Chris stood before the tweens seemed to either not care about or not notice the repulsed looks on their faces (most likely the former). He flashed a grin and began to speak.
"Morning everyone; sleep well? Hopefully you did because today's challenge is gonna be quite a tough one." Chuckled Chris. "Welcome to the first of the Wawanakwa Landmarks … the Dark Swamp. Full of stink and with light repelled by the forest canopy above us, this swamp is home to some of the most disgusting smells on the island."
"And probably gross creatures like you; how does it feel to return home?" Snarked Sampson.
"Good one." Giggled Charles.
"I try." Nodded Sampson.
"Zip it!" Frowned Chris. "Anyway, in addition to being home to bad smells and my buds Sid and Elvis, it's also home to the next challenge." Continued Chris.
"Dare I ask who Sid and Elvis are?" Gulped Charles.
"Please don't tell me they are sharks or alligators." Whimpered Harvey.
"Of course not." Assured Chris. "Come on out guys! Ook, ook!"
Some primate sounding screeches were heard and the tweens looked up to a nearby overlook on a cliff wall and saw two large Orangutans looking down at them. One of them was blue and one of them was red for some reason.
"… Darn it … monkeys…" Groaned Larry. "Or apes, I don't really know the difference."
"Chris, why are they weird colours?" Asked Edith.
"What is weird?" Stated Otis airily.
"Sid and Elvis are both part of the very rare species called Wawanakwa Orangutans, also known as Terror Apes. Their fur can be red or blue for males, and yellow or pink for females … and green for newborns. Anyway, these two friendly apes are going to be helping us out in our challenge today." Stated Chris.
"… They don't look very friendly." Gulped Gilda.
"Indeed they are not. This swamp is a place they love to hang out at, and you are on their territory. A far as they are concerned, you are breaking and entering their home." Chuckled Chris.
"First a mutant burger, then a crazy soldier girl and now monkeys? … Good thing I've already written my will." Sighed Donald.
"Anyway, Sid and Elvis will be hassling you by throwing coconuts at you … and that brings me along to today's challenge." Exclaimed Chris. "As you can see behind me, there is a swamp; but there is also some walkways and hanging jars. Your challenge is to retrieve those jars."
"Sounds simple enough." Noted Quadesh.
"That's where you are wrong." Grinned Chris. "Four members of each team will be going along the rickety walkways to bring down the jars. They then have to toss the down to the stinky swamp water where the rest of their team mates will be waiting to grab the jars and transport them back to the shore. It's messy work, but somebody has to do it."
"… Not it!" Said Sampson.
"Tough luck Sampson … literally. You'll have to draw tokens to see who gets what job." Stated Chris as he took out two bags. "Everybody form two lines based on your team, and then take one token from the bag. You may look at them when I say you can."
The tweens did as they were instructed and drew the tokens.
"Ok, everyone look at your tokens. If you drew a blue token you will be going on the walkways, but if you drew a brown one then you'll be going in the water." Chuckled Chris. "If you have a brown token then please step forwards."
After a moment of movement it was clear that the swimmers for the Strong Squids were Edith, Harvey, Sampson and Ub while the swimmers for the Tough Tuna were Donald, Penta, Quadesh, Xadrian and Zanna.
(Confessional: They're gonna need a bath badly after this challenge…)
Harvey: Probably for the best; I'd most likely end up falling off the walkways and not getting a single pot down.
Ub: Gross, but unavoidable it seems. Good thing I can swim … and also good thing these super sunglasses are water proof.
Quadesh: Darn it … well, good thing getting dirty doesn't make me really squeamish or anything. That'd suck in a challenge like this.
Donald: Crap! I … well … I really don't do well with getting dirty … no, I'm not going on that water; it's just not happening! I'll try and help from the shore; maybe distract the monkeys or something; anything is better than doing in the swamp water!
"So … how exactly do we win the challenge? Bring the most pots to shore or something?" Guessed Tilly.
"Nope. See, each of those pots has something in it. Either a rock, or a Golden Chris Idol. Since the pots are solid and non-transparent, you won't be able to see what's in them … and smashing them before the challenge ends is not allowed." Stated Chris. "Whichever team ends up with the most Golden Chris Idols will win immunity, and thus the team with the least will go to elimination. Also, don't try to take one of the idols back to camp; the Golden Chris Heads are only for the challenge; they have no special function besides looking handsome."
"Seems simple enough." Nodded Gilda. "So, shall we start?"
"Almost … I have one more announcement to make before we can start." Said Chris as he snapped his fingers.
Chef Hatchet wheeled over a covered blackboard while we3aring a peg on his nose.
"I am so glad the union got me a nose peg." Said Chef Hatchet in relief as he quickly took his leave.
"Since the game is changing due to the team swap … let's change it up even more!" Grinned Chris as he took the cobber off the blackboard. "Behold! New idols!"
Taped to the blackboard were pictures of five new idols; there were idols that resembled the heads of Geoff, Izzy, Noah, Lindsay and Cody.
"… You've got my attention." Said Tilly in interest.
"Wh't do these idols do?" Asked Xadrian.
"Very useful things." Assured Chris. "The Geoff idol will allow you to watch the voting ceremony of the opposing team and maybe learn interesting information about their dynamics which may help you in future rounds, though this idol becomes useless after the merge and will only be good as a paper weight. Play this one after a challenge is over."
"We'd better find that one fast." Noted Ub.
"The Izzy Idol allows you to choose two people from the opposing team to sit out of the challenge which may help your team win. However, those two campers will get immunity from the vote; if played after the merge this one works exactly the same … just that the challenge is played individually rather than as a team." Said Chris factually. "Use this before I announce that a challenge has begun."
"That sounds very useful." Nodded Quadesh.
"The Noah Idol could both save and doom you." Said Chris. "If you play it then it works just like the Chris idol … but like the Harold Idol, it comes with a price … namely, being swapped over to the opposing team where you may or may not have trouble settling in. After the merge this will instead give you a penalty vote at the next elimination ceremony. Use this one right before the Doubloons are handed out."
"I have got to find that one." Thought Ivy.
"The Lindsay Idol works sort of like the Gwen Idol did in that it subtracts votes cast against you … but it has no set total. It will remove half of the votes cast your way at a ceremony. If it's an odd number of votes against you, then the number of votes removed is rounded downwards." Explained Chris. "Use it before I hand out the doubloons."
"Sounds chaotic." Chuckled Otis.
"What about the Cody Idol?" Asked Kelly. "Hopefully it does something useful."
"Indeed it does." Nodded Chris. "This idol will give you an advantage in a challenge."
"How is that any different than the Beth Idol?" Asked Sampson.
"Because you will get an extra team mate for the challenge … one of the original campers. They will be randomly selected; hopefully the odds will be in your favour. Play this idol before the challenge starts." Stated Chris. "And with that, I have said everything that I need to say. Shall we start the challenge?"
"Br'ng it on!" Declared Xadrian.
"I have one thing to say before we start." Stated Zanna as she took out the Bridgette Idol. "I would like to play my idol."
Zanna passed her idol to Chris and he nodded after checking that the idol was legit.
"Very good. The Tough Tuna will have a two minute head start over the Strong Squids. It may make a difference, or it may not. Who knows?" Chuckled Chris. "Also, as of this moment onwards the Bridgette Idol is now removed from play."
"Nice one Zanna." Nodded Quadesh.
"Ok then, let's get this show on the road!" Declared Chris.
(Confessional: Grab those jars and avoid the mean monkeys!)
Kelly: Well, I guess I know what I'll be doing tonight. Those idols could really help my game and help me take out some of the others; no offense guys, but I need the prize money more than you do … most likely.
Ub: I need those Idols and I will have them.
Ivy: If I get those idols, maybe I could get rid of Ub somehow … assuming that the Chris Idol I gave him isn't the real one. If it is, I'm screwed.
Otis: If these new idols don't create chaos and paranoia then I don't know what will.
Next Time: The tweens try to recover pots of Golden Chris Idols, but the smelly swamp water and the troublesome monkeys Sid and Elvis make this quite difficult. Somebody else is voted off the island.