Disclaimer: I do not own Total Drama Island, Action, or The Season That Must Never Be Named. They belong to Teletoon and Cartoon Network. I also do not own the alphabet theme; that belongs to Frank15 and his great story Total Drama Alphabet. And while I'm at it I also do not own the song 'you've got a friend in me', that belongs to Pixar and Randy Newman. I do however own all twenty eight OC's that appear in this story so please do not steal them.
The Warning: This chapter contains a wild horse ride, a crocodile, an angry bear, a cowardly bully, some love, a bit of depression and a lot of controversy. You have been warned though it is nothing M rated nor will it ever be.
Pairings: SpiderxQuana BarneyxLavender AndyxMable JimmyxEleanor GaryxRaven VinniexUzuri and OscarxXaria
Note: Sorry for the wait; I would have had this chapter out sooner but I've been feeling a bit unwell lately. But three days off school gave me some time to catch up on my writing and therefore I hereby present chapter twenty six of Total Drama Letterz. This one continues the emotional events of chapter twenty five and ends with a happy resolution. But what happens? Read on to find out! And leave a review if you really enjoy it.
I'ma firin mah Lazor!
"And we're back." Said Chris with a smile. He had gotten to his feet and recovered from Vinnie's strong punch. The campers besides Xaria and Uzuri stood around looking Chris, all but Kasimar looked angry at Chris for what he had said to Uzuri. "So; everyone ready to here what the challenge is for today?"
"Not until you apologize to Uzuri." Said Vinnie angrily.
"Yeah; what you did *cough* was uncalled for and *cough* completely jerkass." Said spider with a disapproving frown.
"Hmmm … Nope! I'm actually not sorry and I'd happily do it again." Sneered Chris. "She's a freak anyway so it's all good."
Chris promptly received a number of empty boxes to the face for that comment.
Confessional: Where you are safe from boxes.
Chris: Ow! That really hurt! (Chris starts crying).
"Stop that!" Growled Chris. "Anyway; today's challenge is one that some of you might enjoy."
"Which of us? The sane or psychotic?" Asked Lavender while glancing at Kasimar. Kasimar just crossed his arms and frowned.
"Probably both." Said Chris vaguely. "It's going to test your harmony with nature, skill with beasties and outdoor survival!"
"So we're going camping?" Asked Jimmy excitedly. "I love camping!"
"No, we are not doing camping Mr. Pint Size." Sneered Chris with his signature laugh.
"Then what are we doing?" Asked Tabitha impatiently.
"Haven't I already told you?" Asked Chris with a dry yawn.
"No; you haven't." Said Eleanor with an audible sigh. "Please continue oh so great host."
"Thank you!" Smiled Chris happily. "Nice to see somebody knows how great I am! Haha!"
"I was being sarcastic you nitwit." Said Eleanor as she moved one of her long blond and green bangs out of her face.
"Shut up!" Snapped Chris angrily. "Look; if you want to know the challenge just follow me outside; oh, and somebody should go and get bumble bee and freako so they can hear the rules."
Oscar and Vinnie stepped forwards to go and get their upset crushes; as they went past Oscar punched Chris without looking at him.
"Ow! You bully" Wailed Chris as the short guy and muscular body builder exited the mess hall. "Ok; let's go outside and I'll explain the challenge that none of you could figure out without my guidance. Haha!"
Confessional: I sense a guiding hand.
Oscar: If there is one thing I really don't like, its bullies … and Chris is a complete bully. Uzuri didn't deserve that, I may not know her too well but I still know she didn't deserve that at all.
Eleanor: That was so mean! How could Chris do that? What did Uzuri ever do to him? Bullying isn't funny; it's horrible! (Eleanor frowns).
Uzuri was sitting on her bed crying into her hands. She had been really hurt by Chris's words; he had basically said she was a waste of space and nobody liked her.
"Why must I always be the outcast?" Sobbed Uzuri softly. "Why can't I just be accepted for who I am? It's always freak, she's crazy or worthless sadist. I can only ignore it for so long."
Uzuri wiped her eyes and sniffled a little. This was turning into the worst day of her life.
"Uzuri … are you ok?" Asked Vinnie from the doorway with a look of great concern on his face.
"No I'm not! Stuck on an island in the middle of nowhere with that awful man and thirteen people who despise me!" Said Uzuri with tears in her eyes.
"What? Look, Uzuri, we don't hate you." Said Vinnie comfortingly.
"Well why would they like me if my own family didn't send me anything?" Asked Uzuri sadly through her tear filled eyes.
"Because you're a nice person which is a lot more than I can say for the likes of Chris and Kasimar." Smiled Vinnie.
"You don't have to lie to try and make me cheer up." Said Uzuri with a small frown. "Did you come here for a reason?"
"Yes I did; the challenge is about to start and you need to hear the rules but the important thing is that you a-." Said Vinnie before Uzuri cut him off.
"Are a freak? I know; nearly everyone I've met has called me that at some point. Lets just get this over with; I'm going to get voted off anyway." Said Uzuri as her gloomy sadness returned to its full as she got off the bed and walked past Vinnie hanging her head.
Vinnie looked quite concerned and wrung his hands nervously as he followed after her back to the others.
"Years of sadness must be coming out in one go." Thought Vinnie in worry. "I hope we don't lose; she might vote for herself … what should I do?
Confessional: When I get sad I comfort eat.
Uzuri: I wonder what the challenge will be; maybe Chris will make a "humiliate Uzuri challenge". I bet everyone would enjoy that. (Uzuri sighs sadly).
Vinnie: What should I do? I'm no expert on girls by any standards … but I can tell Uzuri needs cheering up … though how to do that is going to take some thought.
Oscar could hear a sobbing sound coming from the girl's side of the Team Grenade cabin; he knew it was Xaria and the sound of someone tough like her crying was very concerning and surprising to him. He slowly moved to the open door and hesitantly knocked which got Xaria's attention.
"What is it Oscar? I'm … going through a tough time here." Said Xaria as she wiped tears of her face.
"I came to see if you are alright; it doesn't take Noah to see that you are sad and when my friends are sad I talk to them." Said Oscar as he stood at the doorway.
"I appreciate the concern … but it's not important." Sighed Xaria as she hung her head. "Shouldn't you be with the team?"
"Well, yeah, but I think your well being is a fair margin more important than being near Kasimar. What's the matter? Was your present … um … nasty?" Asked Oscar gently.
"…Yes." Said Xaria as she got off her bed. "Anything else you came to tell me?"
"Well I also came to say that Chris is going to explain the rules of the challenge but the main reason I'm here was to see if you are alright." Explained Oscar. "Want to take a walk and talk?"
"No thanks; I'd better listen to the usual crap that comes out of Chris's mouth." Said Xaria as she walked sadly out the door as Oscar began to follow. "What torture could he have planned today?"
"Hopefully nothing too bad; but if we work as a team I'm sure we can do it … and maybe we could get Kasimar booted off while we're at it."
"Sounds nice; a lot nicer than…" Xaria trailed off and silently mumbled something.
Oscar couldn't quite hear all of what Xaria had mumbled but he was sure he had heard the word 'Jaron'.
"Who could Jaron be? A bully from her school?" Though Oscar as he and Xaria walked along.
Confessional: Or a bully from within her home.
Oscar: This ... is not good. The show started out nice enough; but after what happened from Gary and now Uzuri and Xaria in tears ... I'm wondering just what is going on here.
Xaria: (She just stares at the camera and sighs sadly).
Soon enough Vinnie arrived back to the others with a depressed Uzuri and Oscar arrived with Xaria. Most campers looked at the two girls in concern and sympathy; that's right, I said MOST.
Kasimar was thinking of what nasty remark to say that could make Xaria cry again; before he could decide Oscar's eyes met his in a glare that clearly said, "Upset her and I'll KILL you," following this Kasimar stayed silent.
"Ok; we all here? All tough or crying? Good." Smiled Chris as he took out a rifle and blasted a shot in the air which caused a bang. A second later a dead eagle fell down to Chris's feet.
"Hmm, bummer." Said Chris in a bored voice.
"How could you!" Roared Eleanor angrily. "Why the rifle? Don't you remember last season when you had a gun? You just murdered an innocent animal!"
"And I'm sure he will taste delicious, don't you worry." Smirked Chris with a sneer.
Eleanor tried to run at Chris and attack him but Jimmy used all his might to hold her back.
"Don't bother Eleanor; he's just a pathetic, sad, strange little man who isn't worth it." Said Jimmy to calm his friend down.
Eleanor took a few deep breaths and her anger chilled.
"You're right; I just get angry when animals get hurt." Said Eleanor as he looked sympathetically at the dead eagle.
"Can we turn the attention back to me?" Whined Chris. "I'm the one who is going to give you the rules; without me you'd all be nothing!"
"So what are we doing?" Asked Raven.
"Today I'm bringing back a portion of one of my favorite challenges from last season; it had animals, a speedy duck, a raccoon monster and a tranquilizer dart in the butt."
"Oh no; do you mean the animal wrangling challenge?" Asked Kasimar with a groan. "I … hate … animals! Gaaaah!"
"Then this challenge might be enjoyable." Smirked Oscar while hoping to make Xaria smile; when he glanced at her she still looked sad.
"Kasimar is right; but it has a twist today. Last time it was done after the merge; this time it is going to be done with your teams. Each team has a specific animal they must capture and bring to camp. As the most excellent me is feeling quite generous today, the teams with less members have an easier animal to catch while the teams with more numbers have a harder animal to catch. Because of more members meaning more strength it evens out in the end." Explained Chris.
"I hope we don't have to capture sasquatchinaquwa." Prayed Mable out loud.
"Nope; his contract expired and now he is on holiday in Japan … he was then arrested for eating too much at an all you can eat sushi bar. Anyway; I can reveal that Team Jungle, AKA Team Failure, are going to catch a horse since they have the fewest members. But he warned; it's a feisty one! Haha!"
"Do any of you two know how to ride a horse?" Asked Tabitha to her team mates.
"I've done it before when I was younger; I'm a little rusty but I'm sure it'll come back to me after a while." Said Vinnie with a shrug of confirmation.
"What does it matter; I can't do anything useful or worthwhile." Said Uzuri miserably.
"Uzuri; that's not true." Began Vinnie but Chris cleared his throat to interrupt him.
"Moving along; Team Puzzle are going to be going after a crocodile; don't worry though, you get a muzzle to take with you. Haha!"
"How do we get the muzzle on the crocodile?" Asked Quana.
"Not my problem." Chuckled Chris. "But please try not to get eaten; that would mess up the challenge order I have planned. Haha!"
"How do you *cough* sleep at night after *cough* making us suffer so much?" Asked Spider looking appalled.
"It's quite easy really; I simply don't care! Haha!" Laughed Chris sadistically.
"Dickhead." Mumbled Barney in disgust.
Confessional: Wrong side of the bed.
Barney: Did Chris wake up and decide to be evil today yaaaar? He thinks he is cool but he is not; everyone hates him. If I was in charge I'd make him walk the plank into shark infested water!
Chris: Shut up!
"And that leaves Team Grenade with the most dangerous animal. I hope you like mammals because you are going to go after … a bear! Haha!"
Team Grenade were stunned; how were they supposed to catch a bear?
"You can't be series." Said Lavender in a deadpan voice.
"He wouldn't." Said Raven in shock.
"He would." Grumbled Xaria sadly.
"Bumble bee is right; I would. Haha! So; you guys are going after a bear. You can use any method to catch it besides killing it but you don't get any items to help you."
"Why not?" Demanded Lavender.
"Because you already have the most members; giving you something like a tranquilizer would be an unfair advantage. Duh!" Laughed Chris.
"Since when do you care about fairness?" Asked Mable dryly.
"Only when it benefits me." Shrugged Chris. "So; when you have wrangled your animal you have to bring them back to camp and put them in the cages so the interns can take them off the island later."
"What cages?" Asked Jimmy since not a single cage was in the vicinity.
"It isn't built yet ok; but that is not important; just get going and try not to die. Haha!" Laughed Chris sadistically.
Confessional: I have a bad feeling … oh wait, its just gas.
Lavender: How in the flippin heck are we supposed to catch a bear? We have no items to use on it so it's going to be pretty hard. Someone might get really hurt!
Vinnie: Its official; Chris has gone off the deep end. My team may have got off fairly easy but I'm kinda concerned about the others. I don't think crocodiles and bears are very friendly.
Tabitha: I have a good feeling about this; if Vinnie can ride a horse we may be able to ride it back to camp. This time we might win; after an overall total of five losses I think first place sounds pretty good.
Spider: Oh boy; this does not*cough* sound good. I've watched the crocodile *cough* hunter before, crocodiles are quite aggressive; *sneeze* I hope Quana and the others don't *cough* get hurt.
Uzuri: (She is hanging her head with a few tears in her eyes). I bet the others are going to push me in front of the horse so I get hurt and they can laugh. Well; doesn't surprise me really. (Uzuri sniffles).
Chris: Isn't this great? Looks like the fruits of my efforts are being harvested! Haha! Uzuri's one of the worst contestants anyway, no harm no foul right? I've just got to, ahem, 'tilt' the game in Kasimar's favor so ratings keep coming in and I get a bigger paycheck! Haha!
A while later the campers had gone off into the woods to search for their respective animal; as Chris had told them there was only one of each animal on the Island it would be easy to know when they had the right one.
Team Jungle had gone off into the grassiest and open parts of the woods which they thought was where the horse was more likely to be; after all, do horses like being in the creepy forest with a bear and a crocodile?
"Well guys; I think that despite us having the least members of any team we might have a shot at this; horses are easier to approach with less people, they feel more at ease. Of course; I've never ridden one but there is a first time for everything." Said Tabitha to motivate her team.
Confessional: Except…
Tabitha: Except losing; specifically me losing this show.
"Maybe we should look for an apple tree." Suggested Vinnie. "I think horses like apples so maybe we'll find it there."
"Good thinking Vinnie; any idea where an apple tree is?" Asked Tabitha.
"That I'm afraid I do not know." Said Vinnie apologetically.
"What about you Uzuri; what do you think we should do?" Asked Tabitha while hoping Uzuri had pulled herself together by now.
"I don't know; why ask me? I can't do anything." Said Uzuri as sadly as ever.
"You can do stuff." Said Vinnie as he moved to walk beside Uzuri. "Who lasted longest in the torture challenge? You did! Who is the nicest and most kind hearted person I have ever known? You are!"
"Don't tell lies Vinnie; I'm not worth it. I know you don't like me; and why try? I'm just going to get voted off tonight." Sniffled Uzuri very sadly as a single tear exited her eye and she quickly walked ahead leaving Vinnie and Tabitha and the two glanced at each other as they walked.
"Chris has really upset Uzuri." Said Vinnie. "This isn't the Uzuri I know."
"Me neither." Agreed Tabitha. "Chris was quite… tactless."
"I think he was more than just tactless." Said Vinnie in disdain. "He flat out told Uzuri that not only does nobody like her but also her parents don't love her … and that's a load a crap! I'm sure a number of people like her, you just need to get used to her."
"Well; what can we do?" Asked Tabitha with a completely false sigh.
Confessional: I can't help; I don't have a brain.
Tabitha: Its not that I care about Uzuri; but if she keeps acting like a self loathing emo then we're going to lose and then it'll all go down the toilet. I've got to think of a way to make her cheer up.
Uzuri: From my name to my odd mannerisms; at school they all hated me. Why can't people just be nice to me? (Uzuri stars to cry).
Vinnie: Poor sweet Uzuri; I think she just needs a friend; she has Tabitha, but maybe she needs more friends. I'm making it my mission until further notice to help her cheer up and be like her usual lovable self, the usual self that I love.
"Maybe we can be really nice to her and talk about horror movies to her." Suggested Vinnie.
"Do you know anything about horror movies?" Asked Tabitha. "I don't; I much prefer drama and romance hybrids."
"I'm more of a musical guy myself. I've not watched many horror movies. Well; I do know a tiny bit about Freddie Krueger."
"Well; I think you can help Uzuri more than I can, you like her and I think she likes you." Said Tabitha with a small smile.
"Well; I guess it's worth a try; but we've got to keep an eye out for that horse as well. If not then one of us will be gone by tomorrow." Said Vinnie as he sped up to catch up with Uzuri.
Confessional: How do you pull a cart? A horse *OF COURSE*! LOLOLOLOLOL!
Vinnie: Here goes nothing; I just hope Uzuri will listen to me.
Tabitha: If worst comes to worst Uzuri will vote for herself if we lose; Vinnie may or may not vote for me and I'll have to for the "U nique" freak. Either way I'm in no danger.
Team Puzzle was looking around the rivers and wetlands of Wawanakwa island; they were all having to watch their step to make sure they wouldn't end up in the scummy muck.
"I never did like swamps." Said Eleanor as she stepped over a gap of muck. "They are much too muddy for me and the animals are usually either gross or dangerous."
"I thought you liked all animals." Said Jimmy as he looked at a few logs in the river to make sure they were actually logs and not the alligator they were looking for.
"Most of them; I don't like grubby things or animals that may as well be monsters, like those dogs that attack young children." Explained Eleanor.
"Me too; bugs are gross." Gagged Jimmy. "I don't mind butterfly's though."
"Same here; I love the most colorful ones." Smiled Eleanor.
"Anyone see the beastie crocodile?" Asked Barney as he hopped onto a log into the middle of the bog and put a hand above his eyes as he peered around.
"Be careful Barney; if *cough* you fall in you could get a *cough* disease and end up like *cough* me." Cautioned Spider.
"Don't worry me heartie; I am one with the water … the fish gutting messy water, but water all the same." Grinned Barney as he leapt back onto land. "I didn't see our croccy friend; shame really, a pair of croc skin boots would be a welcome addition to my stylish pirate attire."
"I'm not sure I'd call it stylish." Giggled Quana with small mirth. "But I can sort of see your dress sense. But if you're a pirate why don't you have a hook hand?"
"Sawing off my hand would be too painful and emotionally I can't stand my own screaming." Explained Barney casually.
Confessional: I'd expect that from Uzuri.
Quana: I guess that kind of makes sense in a weird way; a very weird nonsensical way that is.
Jimmy: That's our Barney!
"Have you got the muzzle cough* ready Barney?" Asked Spider.
"Yep; got it right here." Nodded Barney as he held up the crocodile muzzle.
"Good; we mustn't lose it *sneeze* or we'll have no hope of *cough* winning the challenge or escaping the *cough* crocodile without harm." Gulped Spider in worry. "I don't want any of *cough* us to become the croc's dinner!"
"Don't worry about it Spider; we'll protect you." Said Quana comfortingly. "You've got nothing to worry about."
"Except ending up *cough* like poor Vinnie." Said Spider with a shudder.
"That won't happen." Assured Quana warmly. "If that crocodile does anything to you I'll turn it into a pair of boots." Said Quana before quickly adding. "I mean the same for everyone else as well of course, I don't want anyof my friends getting hurt."
Confessional: Would you do that for me as well?
Quana: I've got to watch what I say; telling him everything right there and then with the others around … that would be pretty embarrassing. Though I did mean what I said.
Spider: Does Quana like me? I'm *cough* probably being too hopeful but *cough* if she did … that'd be *sneeze* nice. (Spider smiles dreamily).
"I've seen crocodiles before." Said Jimmy. "Ted's uncle Bill has a crocodile farm down south … of course, we were never allowed anywhere out of our parents sight and we were always in a protective armoured jeep when looking at the reptiles."
"Ok; that's a start." Said Eleanor as she looked up and down the swampy boggy river. "Any idea where the best place would be to look for the crocodile? I know they like being in wetlands but as for the exact place I'm not as sure."
"I think they like it in humid areas … so I'd guess by the waterfall." Said Jimmy. "And as the river is flowing south I'd say the waterfall is north."
"Great idea Jimmy; I like your thinking." Grinned Barney as the group set off up the banks along the creek. "Onward to adventure!"
"So how exactly are we going to muzzle the crocodile?" Asked Eleanor. "Putting it on something like a dog wouldn't be so hard though might be a little mean … but crocodiles are pretty dangerous. Any ideas?"
The team, even Barney, was silent for a few moments, Eleanor had a good point. How does one go abut muzzling a crocodile? Spider broke the silence.
"I think … that we *cough* should locate the crocodile … and *cough* plan the next move." Suggested Spider helpfully.
"So basically what you're saying is … that we should make a plan." Said Quana. "I think that could work."
"To be honest I don't really like this challenge." Said Eleanor glumly. "Muzzling a crocodile against its will, putting it in a cage; it all seems quite mean to be honest."
"We're carrying on the crocodile hunter's eternal legacy." Said Jimmy in remembrance. "But its ok; I'm sure the crocodile will be released into the wild after the challenge. "
"Well; if you're sure." Smiled Eleanor.
Confessional: I'm sure … sure that I will be used very soon.
Eleanor: I don't like animal cruelty; its completely wrong, animals are our friends. Does Chris even realize this could be considered animal cruelty what with the muzzle and all?
Chris: I do know; and it's funny you stupid girl! Haha!
Barney: This challenge is pretty dangerous me hearties. Hmmm … what would Blackbeard do? More importantly what would George Lucas do?
Team Grenade were all feeling a bit pissed off at Chris; he was making them go and wrangle a bear of all creatures. All six of them knew that it was a dangerous creature if provoked … actually scratch that; it was dangerous even if unprovoked, you all saw what happened to Cody … and the fact is that so did all six remaining members of Team Grenade. Also concerning was that Xaria looked pretty gloomy and had her head hung and her hands in her pockets.
"Does anybody know anything about bears?" Asked Lavender. "Animal knowledge isn't my strong point."
"Makes me wish Eleanor was on this team." Lamented Mable. "That way we'd easily win."
"How would having a pint sized girl on the team help?" Asked Kasimar as he ran a hand through his mohawk. "You've got me, and to a lesser extent Oscar so you girls don't have to worry your panties off. Yahaha!"
"Well I can think of two good reasons." Said Raven promptly. "Number one; she knows about animals so would be a valuable asset and number two, she's a heck of a lot nicer than you are. Meraly your elimination would not satisfy me I admit."
"And that elimination ain't gonna happen toots." Smirked Kasimar. "You guys may not like me but Chris likes me and that's all I need; with him on my side I think I have a clear shot at the million."
"Do you hear that?" Asked Oscar as he put a hand to his ear. "It's the winds of change."
Confessional: Change the channel; I've seen this one before.
Kasimar: (He is imitating Oscar mockingly). Do you hear that, it's the wiiiiinds of change? Phfft! What is he; a philosopher? Laaaame!
"What the hell's that supposed to mean?" Grunted Kasimar.
"You figure it out." Said Oscar airily. "Next time we lose the winds will blow strong."
"Yeah; I agree … when you vote off miss bumble bee for being a crybaby!" Sneered Kasimar as he walked ahead. The others glared hatefully after him.
"Maybe we should have voted him off instead of Wallace." Said Lavender. "At least Wallace was mildly useful and not such a nasty despicable scum bag. Don't let him get to you Xaria."
Upon not getting a response from her friend Lavender looked towards Xaria and was quite surprised to see a tear escaping her eye.
"Are you ok Xaria?" Asked Lavender. "Don't listen to Kasimar; he's just trying to get a reaction just like most bullies."
"Just leave me be." Said Xaria in a slightly cracking voice as she hurried ahead to distance herself from the others and also stay away from Kasimar.
Confessional: And not cracked like an egg.
Xaria: Why do nasty people always go so far and nice people finish last? Or at least … I try to be nice. (Xaria sniffles sadly).
Oscar: I want to organize Kasimar an appointment with my fist but that would probably make things worse. Poor Xaria; she doesn't deserve all this.
The three girls and one body builder exchanged glances of concern and a small silence arose.
"That was really nasty of Kasimar." Said Mable with a growl. "He's really upset Xaria and she was already pretty gloomy as well."
"Why is Xaria feeling like this?" Asked Lavender. "She ran out of the mess hall close to tears this morning so I guess it was to do with her present."
"Can't have exactly been a present then." Said Mable gloomily. "Unless I'm mistaken presents aren't supposed to make someone that upset."
"You went to get her for the challenge Oscar; was she ok when you found her?" Asked Raven in concern.
Oscar blinked and looked a little shifty.
"In one word … no." Said Oscar gravely. "She was sobbing and sounded really upset. I don't know the whole story but when she mumbled something I heard one word of what she mentioned."
"What was it?" Asked Lavender.
"It was 'Jaron'; I'm guessing whoever she is she can't have been nice to Xaria; maybe she sent the letter Xaria received." Said Oscar with a weary and worried sigh.
"And it looks like Kasimar has just made everything even worse." Said Lavender as she tapped her fingers together in thought as they walked along.
"So what should we do?" Asked Raven.
"Step one; cheer Xaria up and make her feel better; step two, make Kasimar sorry." Said Lavender putting emphasis on the last word.
"Amen to that." Agreed Mable. "And then there's the whole slight problem of wrangling a bear."
"As long as we keep our distance we should be ok." Said Raven before groaning. "Everything is worse with bears."
Confessional: Everything is spikier with porcupines.
Lavender: Its times like this I wish I'd gone to the zoo more; maybe then I'd know more about this sort of thing. But our team has the most members so we still have an advantage in that; but isn't this whole thing kind of mean to animals?
Raven: I don't know why but I have a bad feeling in my bones. Well; whatever it is I have to make sure Kasimar loses. After what he did to Gary he has lost any chance of redemption to me.
Mable: I don't fancy my chances going up against a big bear, especially with what happened to Cody last season. Hey Chris … you're a maniac!
Chris: Shut up! I'm awesome and everybody likes me! And since you have blue hair what you say doesn't count! Haha!
Chef: Sometimes I think that Chris is a little pathetic; it's all about him according to his meek little mind. Dumbass.
Team Jungle; or at least what was left of it, was still on the lookout for the horse. Uzuri was still miserable and quite depressed and Vinnie was thinking of a way he could cheer her up; seeing her cry was quite a sad sight, it was like kicking a puppy.
"Maybe I could talk about horror movies with her; she likes those a lot. Here goes." Thought Vinnie as he approached his upset crush.
Uzuri raised her head as he walked alongside her and sighed.
"Need something? Or are you going to poke fun at me like Chris did?" Asked Uzuri sadly.
"Not at all." Said Vinnie with an honest shake of his head. "I just wanted to talk to you, that's all."
"About what?" Asked Uzuri as she hung her head again.
"Just horror movies." Said Vinnie with a smile. "You like them don't you?"
"I guess; maybe a bit too much; shows how weird I am." Said Uzuri as she wiped a fresh tear from her eye.
"Well what's so bad about that?" Asked Vinnie. "I take it as a very good omen if somebody doesn't fit in with the crowd."
"I'm a living bad omen." Said Uzuri sadly. "So; what horror movie did you want to talk about?"
"A nightmare on elm street." Said Vinnie with a hopeful smile.
"Oh yeah; that was a good movie, it was the first horror movie I ever saw." Said Uzuri with a smile for the first time in hours. "Freddie was an interesting villain; the last words he ever spoke were, 'kids'."
"You can never trust a gardener." Said Vinnie while feeling relieved and fulfilled Uzuri was smiling again.
"He's better than Jason because he can get kids in the one place they aren't protected … their dreams." Said Uzuri before blinking. "But why do I like horror movies so much?"
"You have a unique and refined taste for movies I guess." Smiled Vinnie.
"Or it could be that you are a freak." Said Chris from over the intercom all of a sudden. The sound of sadistic laughter was heard ringing about.
Tears welled up in Uzuri's eyes and Vinnie had a sudden urge to really hurt Chris.
"Chris is right; I must be a freak to like that sort of stuff." Said Uzuri as tears poured out of her eyes.
"Don't think like that; Chris is completely wrong. Never lose hope, you're sure to cope and carry on. Don't cry." Said Vinnie as he put his organic hand on Uzuri's shoulder.
Uzuri just started sobbing and ran off ahead; Vinnie slowed down and a feeling a gloominess entered him. Tabitha caught up at that moment and glanced at Uzuri running off up ahead.
"That isn't the Uzuri I know." Said Tabitha with false sadness and masked amusement.
"Me neither; the Uzuri I know always has a smile on her face, a sunny attitude and despite being different is perhaps the most kind hearted person I've ever met." Said Vinnie in a voice full of gloom. "Today isn't turning out to be such a good day."
"It could still get better." Said Tabitha optimistically. "Just show her people do care; adding to that statement where is that horse?"
"I've got no idea; it's not like we're going to literally run into it." Said Vinnie with a shrug.
The sound of a neigh was heard very close by up ahead.
"Sorry Mr. Horsy." Said Uzuri from a distance away. "Please don't run me over."
"Hmmm … I stand fully corrected." Said Vinnie with a blink.
"Let's get that horse." Said Tabitha as she and Vinnie ran in the direction on the noise.
Confessional: Morse horse code.
Tabitha: In a best case scenario we will win and Uzuri will cheer up … but I'd get by with just the former. Still; how do you ride a horse anyway?
Tabitha and Vinnie quickly found Uzuri and the horse. The horse was standing still eating apples from the ground that had fallen from an apple tree within close proximity. Uzuri was leaning against a tree thinking deeply and looked depressed.
"Good job Uzuri; you found the horse." Complimented Tabitha falsely by force of habit as she looked over the four legged mammal. "So; how do we get on it because I doubt it is going to stay still, any ideas?"
"Well … the only horse I've ridden was tamed and had a saddle. This one is wild so it could be harder." Said Vinnie as he stroked his chin in thought.
"Maybe we could climb the apple tree and jump down." Suggested Uzuri without looking up. "But it's probably a stupid idea, just like me."
"Actually that could work." Said Tabitha. "We'll climb the tree and jump down onto it; after that we'll just ride it to camp."
"I guess I'll go at the front." Said Vinnie. "It'll be harder to steer the horse without reins but I'll make do."
"Let's get climbing." Said Tabitha as she began climbing up the apple tree to get to a decent height above the horse. Vinnie followed but at a slightly slower rate; having a metal arm can slightly hinder your climbing abilities believe it or not.
Uzuri looked at her, in her current mind, 'so called friends' climbing up and decided to climb with them, climbing trees was always fun and at the moment she could do with some fun. She approached the tree and began climbing it as fast as a rocket; in mere seconds she had overtaken Tabitha and Vinnie and reached the branch they had been heading towards.
"Whoa Uzuri; how did you climb so fast?" Asked Vinnie impressed.
"I used to climb a lot of trees when I was younger; strange I know but so am I." Said Uzuri with a sigh.
"Ok; on three we jump … none of you are scared of heights right?" Asked Tabitha to make sure she wouldn't have to hear any whining.
"Not me." Replied Vinnie.
"Me neither." Mumbled Uzuri.
"Ok then; one … two … three!" Yelled Tabitha boldly but quietly so the horse wouldn't run away.
The tall rich girl and two shorter misfits jumped from the branch and landed right on the horses back. The horse neighed in alarm and galloped off full speed through the clearings without any signs of wanting to slow down.
"Make it stop!" Wailed Tabitha as she held onto Vinnie. "This is like a roller coaster and I hate roller coasters!"
"Just hang on and keep your breakfast down!" Advised Vinnie as he attempted to gain control of the wild ride.
Uzuri was silent as she held onto Tabitha; this was actually pretty fun but she just couldn't find the motivation to cheer in excitement.
Confessional: Ride like the wind Bullseye!
Vinnie: Well; that was pretty fast, it reminds me of the ride Oblivion at Alton Towers that I've heard of. At least none of us got hurt. Still; it would be nice if horses had built in breaks right? I would have thought Uzuri would be cheering in excitement; Chris has seriously upset her … I wish the biggest humiliation on him in the name of all that is good!
Tabitha: (She looks a little woozy). I don't like things that go that fast; its why I never liked unicorns in my youth. I know they don't exist but some fools will inevitably believe. Ooooh; I think I'm gonna be sick.
Uzuri: That was kinda fun … but it just didn't make me feel happy. (Uzuri sighs sadly as a tear exits her eye.).
Chris: The tears of a young person warm my heart! Haha! I may be a sadist but I'm a likable sadist. Uzuri sucks! And so does everyone else but me … especially my nansey!
Horse: (Translated with English subtitles). Ow! Why do people always ride on our backs? We don't like giving piggy back rides! You should ask a pig for something like that. Humph!
Team Puzzle had reached the waterfall where the air would be most humid; adding to the muddiness of the surroundings it was the perfect area for a crocodile to hang out. Barney had the croc muzzle at the ready as the three teens, one preteen and one kid scanned the area to locate the crocodile.
"I feel *cough* scared." Gulped Spider as he wrung his hands and shivered a little. "I may not be *cough* the most appetizing piece of *cough* meat around … but Crocodiles have been known *sneeze* to eat almost anything."
"Don't sweat it Spider; you're not alone and we completely outnumber the crocodile." Assured Quana kindly. "And it may be asleep when we find it; quite unlikely … but still possible."
"One of the things I know about crocodiles is that while they have great downwards strength in their jaws their upward force is extremely weak in comparison. If we can get it to close its maw then we can easily hold it shut and attaché the muzzle … though I do feel bad for the crocodile." Said Eleanor factually.
"Don't feel too bad; give it half a chance and it'll rip your arms clean off with its pearly whites me heartie." Said Barney in a sunny voice. "Not exactly nice but neither is nature at times."
"What makes you say nature isn't nice?" Asked Eleanor.
"Do the words sharks and bears mean anything?" Asked Barney. "They've been known to make unprovoked attacks on humans … touchy beasties don'cha think?"
"I guess so. I admit not all animals are nice." Agreed Eleanor. "But some of them are so lovely like ferrets, puppies and cats … the tamed ones."
"And speaking of animals." Said Jimmy as he peered into the water a safe distance from the river bank and pointed. "I think we've found our reptile."
The other four looked where Jimmy was pointing and immediately saw they had located their target. In the water was the scaly crocodile with the front of its face floating above the water while the rest of it remained submerged in the base of the waterfall.
"Ok; how are we going to get our scaly nemesis onto dry land without going in there ourselves or getting bitten?" Asked Quana as a feeling of unease built up within her.
Confessional: Getting a painful bite feels completely shite!
Quana: I was trying to calm Spider but truthfully he is quite right to be scared; we could get really hurt! If we get bitten we could be in hospital and sue the show … I do not know how well this challenge was thought through.
Chris: Ok; it wasn't thought through very well; but what are you gonna do about it? The challenge automatically qualifies as awesome because I thought of it! Besides; an injury is great for ratings and we have medical staff at the playa anyway.
"I agree with *cough* Quana; going into the water with that *cough* living bear trap is suicide … we need *sneeze* to lure it out." Said Spider as he put a hand to his woozy stomach.
"But how to do actually do that is the real question." Said Jimmy. "Maybe we could lure it out with some meat ... but I don't think that even a crocodile will like Chef's charbroiled meat very much."
"Hey! I've got an idea." Beamed Eleanor with inspiration as she reached into her pocket and took out a few pieces of dried chicken. "Since crocodiles are carnivores they might like some chicken; its for Frost and Dandelion but I've got plenty at the cabin sooooo … I think I can spare a bit."
"Great idea lassy me cabin girl." Grinned Barney as he put his fake dagger into his pocket. "Ok; so you get it onto land with the farm bounty meat, Spider, Quana and myself will hold its jaw shut when its munching on its feast and Jimmy can get the muzzle on. After all; we need the strongest ones to hold the jaw so it can't fight back."
"Seriously Barney; if you can make up good plans on the spot like that you've got to be a genius of some kind." Said Quana with a smile. "I swear you're smarter than you let on."
"Err … well, that is to say … lets get that crocodile me hearties!" Said Barney with a sweat drop that went unnoticed.
Confessional: Grade flunker or a Jack of all trades?
Barney: I feel conflicted in my mind. Part of me wants to tell them I'm a bit of a geek … the other part wants me to stay silent as a crab and have them think I'm to cool for words. Yaaaar; the reality is that nobody likes an ultra geek.
Spider: I hope this doesn't end *cough* up badly. I don't want to see anyone *sneeze* get hurt. If Quana got really hurt I don't *gag* know what I'd do.
Jimmy: I've never put a muzzle on anything before but it seems simple enough; just slip it on and tighten it; it'll almost be like tying your shoes.
Eleanor got a large handful of the meaty ferret treats while Jimmy readied the muzzle from a distance and Spider, Quana and Barney hid from sight and prepared to spring out at the right time; Spider and Quana were both pretty on edge but they exchanged a glance and managed a smile.
Eleanor set down the pile of dried chicken and picked up a pebble. She tossed it into the water next to the crocodile and ran into the bushes and into safety.
The crocodile turned to the direction the sound had come from and sniffed the air; the first thing it smelt was the juicy scent of meat; if it had used its brain for guidance instead of its stomach it would have smelt the five nearby humans.
The crocodile swam to the edge of the river and clambered out onto land, it looked at the meat and its large maw watered. Without wasting time it began to eat its dinner. A moment later its maw closed as it savored the flavor.
"Now!" Yelled Barney as he sprung from the bushes and forced the crocodiles jaw shut and also to stay shut. A moment later Spider and Quana ran out and haled down the jaw while at the same time Quana sat on the crocodile to stop it getting away.
"Jimmy! Bring the muzzle!" Yelled Quana as she used all her strength to stop the crocodile from causing any harm.
Jimmy ran from his hiding place and quickly put the muzzle on the crocodile; he felt pretty scared but his three friends' expressions gave him the support he needed. A moment later he tightened it.
"I did it!" Cheered Jimmy.
"Good job cabin boy." Grinned Barney. "Now lets get this big boy back to camp."
"How do we do that?" Asked Eleanor as she quickly walked up and glanced at the still and angry reptile at her feet.
"We'll carry it over our heads; it'll be like Pikmin. It'll also be like being an ant. Now lets get this booty haul a'movin!" Said Barney as he and the others began to pick up the crocodile and head at a steady pace back to camp.
Confessional: Fact of the day: Ants can lift forty times their own weight.
Quana: That went pretty well; I think all of besides Barney felt scared … that guy must have nerves of steel. Actually, forget steel, more like diamond because there is nothing harder than diamond. And Spider was so brave despite his worry. What a guy! (Quana giggles and blushes).
Spider: I felt on edge *cough* back there. I could sense everyone *sneeze* else's fear and in turn that *gag* scared me. But Quana was so brave and *sneeze* in control, is it any wonder that I *cough* love that girl?
Crocodile: (Translated with English subtitles). Oooo! Thosssse kidsss! If I ever find out who they were I'll call the crocodile policccccce and then they'll go to jail and I'll eat them! And ssssssseriously; muzzlessss are sssso uncomfortable!
Chris was watching a few interns putting the finishing touches on three large cages; each had the icon of one of the teams on it. Just as the interns stopped working the three members of Team Jungle sped into camp on the horse which looked tired die to running for so long.
"Make it stop!" Wailed Tabitha.
"Whoa Nellie!" Yelled Vinnie. Instantly the horse screeched to a halt and its riders flew off and landed on the ground.
"I should have tried that in the first place." Groaned Vinnie as he got up to his feet and helped Uzuri up. "You ok Uzuri?"
"I'm fine; or as fine as is possible for me to be." Said Uzuri as she rubbed her head.
"That's good to know." Smiled Vinnie.
"How is it good? Come to think about it why do you care?" Sneered Chris. "She's just useless deadweight in this world. The sooner she is off my show the better; she's giving me AIDS just looking at her. What a freak! Haha!"
Uzuri was silent for a moment as Vinnie shook in anger. A moment later tears began running out of Uzuri's eyes. She seemed to silently break down and ran from the others and into the woods.
"Haha! Yep, I did it again." Laughed Chris sadistically. "You still got it awesome me!"
"What was the point in that?" Growled Vinnie. "What did Uzuri do then?"
"Nothing; I just do it because its funny and misery builds character. Besides; it was pretty hilarious right?" Smirked Chris after he stopped laughing. "Oh; and Team Jungle wins immunity and first place."
"Well that's something." Said Vinnie before smirking. "Oh; and Chris."
"What?" Asked Chris with a yawn.
BAM!
Vinnie punched Chris in the balls with his metal fist.
"Think … fast." Said Vinnie slowly as Chris screamed in a high pitched wail.
"You meanie face! I hate you." Squeaked Chris in pain. "Well; you and Tabitha wait here until the other teams arrive; that's a rule!"
"What about Uzuri? She's in tears!" Snarled Vinnie.
"All the better for, ooooooh, ratings!" Whimpered Chris.
Confessional: I rate Chris zero out of ten!
Vinnie: I don't get why Chris doesn't like Uzuri; what did she ever do to him? Uzuri may seem creepy and scary but once you get to know her you can see what a wonderful person she is … and she is an infinity better than Chris.
Tabitha: (She is a light shade of green). I have suddenly gained quite a dislike for horses. I admit that I have a weak stomach; fast speeds like that make it feel all churny inside.
Team Grenade had arrived outside the bear cave; a light snoring was emitting from inside, no doubt it was from the bear. The six members stood quietly and began to formulate a plan.
"Ok everyone; we need to wrangle that bear … but that is going to be easier said than done. Does anyone have an idea?" Asked Lavender.
"Maybe I could knock it out." Suggested Oscar.
"I don't know if that is such a good idea; you may be strong but you remember what happened to Cody right?" Said Lavender with a whisper to avoid waking the bear.
"Maybe we could knock it out with rocks." Suggested Mable. "I'm sure Oscar could lift the heaviest ones."
"We don't want to cause the creature permanent damage." Said Raven while glancing at the cave.
"Why not?" Smirked Kasimar. "Animal suffering is funny, I remember the time I sucked up a hamster with the vacuum at my cousins hose. Boy her tears were funny!"
"You monster." Growled Xaria in shock; this was the first time she had spoken in a while. "And keep your voice down; do you want to wake up the bear?"
"I dunno; as long as it doesn't hurt me its all good." Shrugged Kasimar with a sneer. "And I don't see you coming up with a good idea stillbirth."
Xaria's eyes widened as she thought back to the letter she received that morning and she went silent as a few tears exited her eyes.
"Ooo; did I make the baby cry?" Laughed Kasimar.
BAM!
Oscar punched Kasimar in the face which gave the bully a black eye to go with the one from the previous day, his face was almost comical.
"Do … not … EVER … upset … Xaria." Snarled Oscar in a voice of rage and intimidation. "Do I made myself perfectly clear?"
Kasimar was actually shivering in pure fear at the RAGE on Oscar's face and seemed to be fighting the urge to say something; he failed to fight the urge it seemed.
"Make me!" Spat Kasimar.
"Guys … why has the snoring stopped?" Asked Mable nervously.
A moment later the campers heard a growl and turned to the cave; in front of it and standing meters away was the bear, the very same one that had mauled poor Cody.
"Oh #bleep#." Said Xaria as she paled in fear.
Confessional: Here comes trouble … I'm outta here!
Bear: (Translated with English subtitles). I wasn't going to kill them; I just wanted to rough them up to teach them a lesson for interrupting my beauty sleep! And when I wake up I'm ALWAYS cranky!
The six members of Team Grenade looked at the angry and powerful bear in fear; even Oscar looked quite worried. The bear took another step forward and that was all it took for Kasimar's dirty cowardice to kick in.
"Don't hurt me!" Screamed Kasimar as he pushed Raven, the closest person to him, towards the bear before running away screaming in fear and flailing his arms. "Take her! I don't wanna die! Waaaaaaah!"
Raven looked up at the bear in fear as it growled; before Lavender, Oscar or any of the others could do anything the bear took a swipe at Raven which knocked her onto her side and she clutched the spot it had swiped as she screamed in pain.
"Raven!" Yelled Mable in panic at her fallen team mate.
BAM and POW!
Oscar had charged at the bear and was now beating the ever loving crap out of it. While the bear was being attacked by the muscular body builder Lavender, Xaria and Mable quickly got Raven a safe distance away from the large mammal.
"Aaah! It hurts so much." Groaned Raven; not only does something like this hurt a lot to any normal person but it hurts someone with a low tolerance to pain even more, someone like Raven.
"Is she ok?" Asked Xaria in worry.
"I think the force of the bear's swipe broke her leg beneath her knee." Said Mable gravely. "We've gotta get her back to camp and fast!"
"What about the bear?" Asked Lavender.
The three girls looked to the bear and saw it was now unconscious and Oscar was carrying it on his back; it was putting his muscles to the test and when he was angry or upset he became stronger.
"Actually … I think Oscar's got it covered." Murmured Lavender. "Raven needs medical attention; lets get back to camp and fast!"
The team quickly set off back to camp. As fast as they could go. One thing was for sure; if they lost Kasimar wasn't weaseling his way out of THIS one, not … a … friggin … chance.
Confessional: I'd write a get well card if it was physically possible for me to do so.
Mable: Raven's wound looked bad, but it should heal if its treated quickly. I'd say she should be able to get around on crutches but she won't be able to walk for a few weeks. It's a good thing I took that medical class at school.
Lavender: Oh my goodness; Raven looked in so much pain. When I get hold of Kasimar I'm gonna- (Do things we cannot mention in a teen rated show. Seriously, she and Uzuri should share ideas! And I never would have thought of torturing someone with lemon juice, barbed wire and a telephone in SUCH a way!)
Kasimar: (He is breathing deeply). That was terrifying; I could have gotten hurt! Sure, a little bit of a shame for the shy girl to get hurt … but hey, rather her than me you know. And the others are gonna vote her off in sympathy if we lose so I'm here for another day. Oh my heart.
Oscar: (He is silent and just stares into space while clenching his fists).
Team Puzzle arrived in camp carrying the crocodile; the sun was starting to set now and they were starting to feel tired from carrying the crocodile for so long. They had passed a tearful Uzuri on the way back; she had said something about watching the sunset from the cliff. As they approached the cages in camp they saw a horse in a cage as well as Vinnie and Tabitha standing around. There was no sign of Team Grenade so it looked like they had come in second.
They dropped off the crocodile inside the cage and quickly shut the door and let out exhausted gasps of tiredness.
"Yaaaar me hearties; I'm as tired as a migrating sea turtle." Said Barney as he took a few deep breaths. "Keeping ones arms up that long causes a lot of discomfort savvy?"
"I never want to see another crocodile ever again." Said Quana as she shook her arms to get the circulation going again.
"The feeling is mutual." Panted Jimmy. "But we're safe from a vote off right?"
"Good point." Said Eleanor.
"And Team Puzzle has arrived and have finished in second place." Announced Chris to everyone in the area. "Good job with the crocodile; I was expecting someone to get eaten. Haha!"
"You're *cough* sick." Said Spider is pure disgust at the sadistic host.
"Look who's talking." Smirked Chris.
Before anyone could make a response to that remark Kasimar arrived into camp; he looked out of breath and pale as a white sheet or maybe a ghost, either way he had lost some color.
"What happened to *cough* you? You look like you've seen a ghost." Said Spider as he and everyone else looked at the bully.
"Shut your #bleep# face bug!" Growled Kasimar. "I was nearly attacked by a BEAR a few minutes ago! It's a good thing I'm a fast runner."
"That'll make for good TV." Smirked Chris. "So … where are the rest of Team Grenade?"
"How the hell should I know? Maybe they got eaten by the bear or something." Shrugged Kasimar. "Boy I need a drag or something to calm my nerves."
"Smoking kills you early you know." Said Quana with crossed arms and a frown.
"Like I need to take lip from a girl." Sneered Kasimar before rising his eyebrows slyly. "Still; maybe you could help me feel better."
"Shut up!" Snapped Spider bravely before he realized what he had said.
"We need a doctor stat!" Yelled Lavender as she and the other girls ran into camp carrying Raven who looked in pain. Oscar followed behind them carrying the bear.
"What happened here?" Asked Chris as he and the other campers looked at Raven, most of the latter looking worried.
"Raven got attacked by a bear!" Explained Mable in worry for her friend. "The bear took us by surprise and Kasimar pushed Raven towards it to save his own worthless hide."
"It was me or her and I'd much rather it be her." Said Kasimar casually.
"How can you not care?" Asked Oscar in disgust as he dropped the bear into the cage. "You're sniveling cowardliness could have given Raven permanent damage! Why don't you feel remorse for once?"
"I can't feel remorse if I'm not sorry." Shrugged Kasimar.
"You horrid little-" Began Oscar before Chris interrupted him.
"And now that everyone has wrangled their animals it looks like this challenge is over!" Said Chris with a smile and a clap. "Despite having the least members and a clear disadvantage Team Jungle arrived here first so they win first place and today's special prize."
"So what is the prize?" Asked Tabitha. "Maybe something to stop my head from spinning."
"Nope; today's prize is …
…
…
…
…
…
…
A complete collection of the Creature Comfort DVD's!"
"That doesn't sound so bad." Said Tabitha with a smile. "I think I need a lie down."
Tabitha left to her cabin while Chris continued to reveal the results.
"Team Puzzle has finished in second place and as you all know by now, that means no prize but no elimination either. Team Puzzle stays as it is."
Team Puzzle cheered while Team Grenade looked disappointed for a moment before grinning and smirking at Kasimar.
"And that means that Team Grenade, the team that had a number advantage for so long, has lost and will be down to five in just a few hours."
"Well Raven; too bad you got hurt I guess; but her, I'm not complaining, it keeps me here another day." Smirked Kasimar confidently.
"Oh really? Who says we're voting off Raven?" Asked Lavender with a sly and evil smile.
"Yeah; Raven is our friend which is a lot more than I can say for you." Said Mable with an expression similar to Lavender.
"What?" Asked Kasimar in shock. "But you've got to vote her off! She's injured!"
"Maybe so; but your cowardliness earlier made you unredeemable in my eyes." Said Xaria with crossed arms despite looking a little depressed.
"What are you saying; you're joking right guys?" Said Kasimar nervously. He knew he was in DEEP trouble now.
"Well; it's sort of a secret … but we'll tell you." Said Oscar as he leant to Kasimar's ear. "WE'RE VOTING YOU OFF!"
Kasimar leapt away from Oscar and looked horrified.
"No!" Gulped Kasimar.
"Yep; this should be a fairly quick and enjoyable ceremony." Said Lavender. "Get the video camera Mable."
"Will do." Nodded Mable with a smirk.
There was the sound of chuckling and everyone turned to see Chris laughing with a pretty nasty expression on his face.
"What are you smiling about? I thought Kasimar was your favorite." Said Raven while holding her leg in pain.
"Well; you look so eager to boot Kasimar and after what happened … I guess it's quite understandable." Said Chris with a look of understanding on his face; that look then became twistedly sadistic. "But your contracts clearly state in section fifty paragraph seven lines two to four that, 'In the case of a camper being hurt by an animal, that camper, if injured enough, is immediately eliminated from the game and taken to the playa for medical attention', so, sorry to burst your bubble … but Raven is out."
Everyone was silent and the five good members of team grenade had their jaws drop in horror and shock; Kasimar meanwhile looked stoked and elated.
"You gotta be #bleep# kidding me!" Screamed Lavender in pure rage. "That is so unfair! Raven deserves to be here infinitely more than Kasimar; and Team Jungle still got to choose who to vote for after Gary was eliminated! How is this any different!"
"Because Gary was attacked by another camper, not an animal, and that is completely allowed. Say your goodbyes to Raven; she'll be on the boat of losers within the hour. I'd say goodbye but I've got better things to do like have a latté and read Playboy. See you tomorrow campers who are not as awesome as me."
And with that Chris left without another word; as he left Mable threw a rock at him which made Chris run away crying in pain.
Confessional: The phrase 'break a leg' has never been more inappropriate.
Lavender: (She looks batshit FURIOUS) How can Chris get away with all this? That was so unfair and biased! Isn't it obvious he's tilting the game in Kasimar's favor? His karma is going to be on him like skin … on … a … BODY!
Raven: (her left leg is in a cast). Well; it was fun while it lasted, at least I'll be with Gary right? But I didn't even get revenge on Kasimar. I guess I'll leave the task to my team mates. It has been a great summer so far, I've gained so much out of this show. I just wish it could have ended under better circumstances … I'm a little disappointed as well as angry at Chris and Kasimar but if you only focus on what has been left behind you'll never get to see what lies ahead.
Spider: I'm starting to feel kinda *cough* scared; three campers have left because of *cough* injuries. First Andy, then Gary and now *sneeze* Raven … what if I'm next? (Spider shivers in fright).
Kasimar: Raven getting her leg broken by a bear? Eh, tragic, but it matters little. She's just one of around six billion; and it also means I'm here another day and another one of my competition had bit the dust. Either way you look at it I'm safe and in just a few weeks I'll be swimming in money. Maybe I could by a tank to blow up a hospital or something. (Kasimar smirks evilly).
"Say; did any of you see where Uzuri went?" Asked Vinnie to the other two teams. "She left into the forest crying earlier because of Chris."
"Hmmm, Oh! Yes, I did *cough* see her. She passed us while we *cough* were carrying the crocodile, she said *sneeze* she was going to watch the sunset from *cough* the cliff. Probably to calm herself down." Said Spider as he thought back to earlier. "And after today I *cough* don't blame her at all."
"Thanks Spider." Said Vinnie as he took off into the woods to find Uzuri.
Confessional: Find her fast!
Vinnie: If I can just speak to Uzuri one on one without Chris interrupting I might be able to make her smile again. I just hope I succeed.
A short while later the sun was setting on the horizon; Team Grenade stood around the Bonfire Ceremony Pit to say goodbye to Raven. She was now on crutches and had her left leg in a cast. The interns were loading her luggage on the boat while Chef was waiting for Raven to get on the boat; after what had happened he was willing to wait as long as was necessary.
"Goodbye Raven." Said Mable as she hugged her friend in farewell. "Its such a shame you had to lose in these circumstances."
"Don't worry about it Mable; I had a great time and I'm not a stuttering shy girl anymore, I even have a boyfriend. It's been a great twelve days. The money would have been nice but money can't buy happiness." Smiled Raven.
"Yes it can." Scoffed Kasimar. "That's what hookers are for … duh!"
Raven frowned at the bully and threw caution to the wind.
WHACK!
Kasimar fell onto the ground in pain with a bruise on his head where Raven had whacked him with one of her crutches. The other four cheered for the former shy girl, now a social and lovable plucky girl. As they waved one of them put her hands in her pockets and walked away with a small sigh.
"See you around guys; I'll be rooting for you." Said Raven as she headed for the dock of shame and the boat of losers. "Just make sure Kasimar doesn't win, ok?"
"Don't worry Raven; we'll make sure." Promised Lavender as she waved to her friend.
Raven waved to her friends one last time before Chef Hatchet helped her on board the boat of losers which started up and drove of into the night. Within a minute it was gone.
"So much for having a number advantage." Said Mable. "Well; we're down to five now; the same amount as Team Puzzle. Too bad Raven is gone and not Kasimar."
The three scowled at the bully in pain on the ground for a moment.
"Yeah; it'll be weird without Raven here." Agreed Lavender. "But we've got to keep going and we've got to work harder now."
"And we have to make sure Kasimar doesn't win as well." Said Oscar as the team besides Kasimar began to walk back to their cabin; it was then that Oscar noticed something. "Say; where's Xaria?"
"I don't know; she was with us just a few minutes ago." Said Mable.
Lavender looked around the area and after a moment of searching she spotted Xaria; the moody girl was sitting on the beach watching the sunset and looked deep in thought and seemed a little depressed.
"She seems really unhappy." Noted Mable. "Maybe we should go and talk to her."
"Hmmm … maybe it would be better if just one of us did." Said Lavender while giving Oscar a sideways glance. He immediately got the message.
"I'll go and talk to her." Said Oscar calmly. "She's one of my best friends and I hate seeing my friends upset."
Oscar started to head towards Xaria while Mable glanced at Lavender.
"It there something you're not telling me?" Asked Mable as she and Lavender began to walk back to their cabin.
"Nothing illegal; Oscar just cares about Xaria feelings is all." Smiled Lavender while giving Mable another of her sideways glances.
"Oh … I get you." Said Mable as she started to smile. "He likes her."
"You could say that." Said Lavender with a chuckle.
Confessional: Time for some TLS; tonic, lemon juice … and crap! LOLOLOLOL!
Oscar: Ok; Xaria seemed quite upset and I had to try and cheer her up. I can tell something is bothering her but maybe I shouldn't ask. Just got to make her cheer up … maybe I should just improvise.
Xaria was sitting on the soft sand of the beach and was watching the glorious sunset. She felt upset; not just because of the nasty letter she had gotten earlier, but also because Raven, a nice person, had been injured and eliminated while Kasimar, practically the devil himself, was still here. If only Chris hadn't interfered.
"I always used to think good would triumph over evil." Said Xaria sadly. "Boy was I wrong."
Xaria stared out at the setting sun in silence; as she did so she heard someone walk up and sit down next to her.
"Nice sunset isn't it." Said Oscar in an attempt to start conversation.
"Hey Oscar." Mumbled Xaria. "Need something?"
"Well; I came to see if you're alright." Said Oscar. "You've been looking pretty down all day, not as much as Uzuri but you still seem quite upset."
"Why are you so concerned?" Asked Xaria with a small sigh.
"Because you're my friend, that's why." Said Oscar nicely. "And unlike Kasimar I care about how people feel."
"It's nothing; it hardly matters." Said Xaria as she looked away and back at the sunset.
"It must matter a bit for you to have been sad all day and run out of the mess hall in tears earlier." Said Oscar as he put his hands on his knees. "If you want to talk about it I'm listening.
Xaria looked like she wanted to say something but couldn't bring herself to.
"Oscar … I can't." Said Xaria hesitantly.
"Ok, I understand." Said Oscar with a nod. "But can I ask you one question."
"Well … sure, I don't see why not." Shrugged Xaria.
"Ok … who is Jaron?" Asked Oscar gently.
Xaria froze on the spot and her heart began to beat a bit faster. She looked panicked as she looked at Oscar.
"Where did you hear that name?" Asked Xaria nervously.
"I heard you mumble it when you left the cabin this morning after I came to talk to you." Explained Oscar. "Was she a bully or something? If you want I could tell her to leave you alone."
"No she's not a bully … well, sort of, but not exactly." Said Xaria before sighing and explaining the truth. "She's my sister. My highly abusive sister."
Oscar was silent as was Xaria and the only sounds heard were the splashing of the waves.
"She was never perfect … but we got along … sometimes. But one day she joined a gang … a gang of nasty people." Said Xaria in remembrance as a single tear exited her eye. "From stealing to beating kids up they always caused trouble yet nobody caught them … until someone squealed."
"Who squealed?" Asked Oscar but he had a slight idea who.
"Me. When she beat the utter crap out of a physically handicapped kid I saw it and I told the principal; she and the gang were then expelled. After that whenever our parents went out she beat me up. I stayed quiet for as long as I could … but eventually I was getting quite hurt so … I went to the police."
"Oh gosh; were you ok?" Asked Oscar in great concern.
"I am now; I had set up a camera from time to time and it filmed what Jaron did. I took that to the police as evidence. She got arrested, there was a trial, and she was jailed. She'll be out in five years … but when she is I don't know what I'll do."
Xaria had a fresh batch of tears coming from her eyes and she looked quite sad. Oscar did the first thing that came to mind; she gave her a comforting hug with his strong arms.
"Thanks." Smiled Xaria lightly when he released. "I needed that."
"So … is that why you are a little distrusting and negative?" Asked Oscar.
"Truthfully … yes." Said Xaria as she hung her head. "After years of suffering it kind of changed my outlook on everything; I basically became the negative girl at school. Nowadays I don't have many friends. I don't know why I'm telling you all this … but it feels good to tell someone."
"I'm glad you feel a little better." Said Oscar with a smile. "You know; I haven't had the happiest past either."
"Really? How come?" Asked Xaria curiously. "I would have thought you'd be the most popular person in school."
"I'm kinda popular nowadays … but I haven't always been as strong as I am now." Admitted Oscar. "When I was younger I was quite, well, weedy and I got picked on a lot. It had been going on since I was in the third grade and I was just tired off it."
"So what did you do?" Asked Xaria while wondering how Oscar could have possibly been not strong.
"I trained; all the time." Said Oscar as he looked at his muscles. "I worked out all the time whenever I wasn't busy with school work. In a year or so I was seriously strong. When the bully who started it all cornered me I was ready for him. Looking back on it I probably shouldn't have broken his arm … but he was intending to bludgeon me with a metal pipe."
"Whoa…" Said Xaria as she trailed off.
"Since then I have used my strength to protect other people from bullies so they don't go through what I did." Said Oscar. "This may be a bad question; but can I have a look at that letter you got earlier if that's ok with you?"
"Sure." Shrugged Xaria as she reached into her pocket and handed it to Oscar while looking sadly out at the sunset.
Oscar read through it and was pretty disgusted and appalled at what was written. But after he was finished one line in particular had caught his eye.
And do you think that muscular guy would like you back?
Oscar's heart beat a little faster; he assumed the muscular guy was himself … did Xaria like him?
"This is not right." Said Oscar as he handed the letter back to Xaria. "Your sister just sounds … deranged and evil, no offense."
"None taken, it's true." Shrugged Xaria with a sniffle.
"Erm, Xaria … do you like me?" Asked Oscar. "The letter refers to a muscular guy and I'm assuming that he is me."
"Yes; I do quite like you. We may not have started off too well … but you're a really nice guy and you always do what's right. I wish I known you a few years ago." Said Xaria sadly. "I know you don't like me like that so you don't have to tell me."
Oscar thought what to say next and a sudden idea entered his head; he hoped that this would work and maybe cheer Xaria up.
"You know Xaria; I know a song that has helped me through hard times … and I'm hoping it will help you through hard times such as now as well." Said Oscar.
"You're going to sing?" Asked Xaria raising an eyebrow in amusement. "No offense but you don't look like the singing type."
"Not usually but I am good at this song … and I mean every word of it." Said Oscar as he cleared his throat and began to sing.
You've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me
When the road looks rough ahead
And you're miles and miles
From your nice warm bed
You just remember what your old pal said
Girl you've got a friend in me
Yah you've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me
You've got some troubles
And I've got em too
There isn't anything I wouldn't do for you
We stick together
And we see it through
Because you've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me
Some other folks might be a
Little bit smarter than I am
Bigger and stronger too
Maybe
But none of them
Will ever love you the way I do
It's me and you girl
And as the years go by
Our friendship will never die
You're gonna see it's our destiny
You've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me
Oscar stopped singing and smiled at Xaria who was looking at him with wide eyes and a big smile.
"That's my favorite song; it's from Toy story … something I admit I'm a big fan of." Said Oscar with a little embarrassment. "You see … I really like you Xaria. I voted for you on day one and that was a big mistake on my part. So … want to watch the sunset?"
There was a whole second of silence before Xaria laughed in joy and pounced onto Oscar and gave him a big kiss! After holding it for a few seconds they parted and both were smiling.
"Yes; I would like to watch the sunset." Said Xaria with a smile, one of the first in a long time.
Oscar put an arm around Xaria as they looked out at the setting sun and the shiny evening waves. Xaria leaned against Oscar and for the first time in years she felt truly happy.
Confessional: Why don't I get a kiss? Is it because I have no mouth or something?
Xaria: (She is smiling happily). I've never dated anyone in my life before … but I think Oscar is really the perfect guy; he listened to me all that time and was genuinely concerned for me. He's just like Ace Rimmer; what a guy! And whoa, he's a good kisser. (Xaria giggles and smiles).
Oscar: It took time and it took effort … but Xaria is happy once more. What a terrible past that was. Well; sister to Xaria or not, if Jaron tries to hurt her again I'll show her persuasion and reason. (Oscar holds up his two firsts for a moment before smiling). Despite everything that has happened … I'm glad I entered this show.
Uzuri was sitting on the grass at the top of the thousand foot cliff looking out at the sunset; she had always liked the sky at late times in the day, it was quite beautiful. She sat pulling her knees up to herself and thinking deeply. She had been sitting, watching the sunset and thinking for about almost an hour now.
"What a beautiful sunset; as beautiful as I once thought life to be. Always the outcast and never the friend, that's me." Thought Uzuri sadly. "I really thought they liked me; I should have known it was too good to be true, I guess I'm destined to be alone and friendless all my life. Why can't everyone just be excellent to each other?"
Uzuri continued to sit and look out at the sunset and the island's forest below her. As she sat Vinnie arrived; he felt tired due to walking up the steep hill without rest but Uzuri was more important to him than getting rid of the tired feeling in his legs.
"Uzuri; are you ok?" Asked Vinnie as he walked up to Uzuri and sat down next to her.
"Hey Vinnie." Said Uzuri in a sad sort of voice. "Come here to call me a freak like Chris?"
"That couldn't be further from the truth; I'm here to cheer you up and see if you are alright. You've been so upset all day and its killing me inside to see you like this." Said Vinnie. "Why are you up here anyway?"
"To be alone." Replied Uzuri. "I came up here so nobody would call me a freak or tell me horrible things like Chris did this morning."
"Chris is a pathetic asshole; you shouldn't listen to what he says." Said Vinnie to support his upset crush. "He's just a little person trying to make others feel as little as him."
"Can't get much littler than me." Said Uzuri with a tiny sad smile. "I'm so short."
"So am I; but it's not really so bad. I like you just how you are." Smiled Vinnie.
"Why would anyone like me?" Asked Uzuri bitterly. "I'm obsessed with crazy things, I have never had any friends before this show and even the ones I made here didn't really like me. Not to mention my own parents didn't send me a gift like everyone else's parents did."
"They might have sent you one; it could have got delayed in the mail." Said Vinnie truthfully to calm Uzuri down. "And you know; I think you're one of the greatest and most wonderful people it's ever been my pleasure to meet."
"But why would they want to hang around the creepy crazy girl instead of someone normal?" Asked Uzuri as she looked at Vinnie with sad eyes.
"Why wouldn't they want to? Look at you! You're kind hearted, you're a free spirit, you're funny, you always do the right thing, you're unique and, well, you're beautiful." Said Vinnie, the last part he said shyly.
"You don't man that." Sighed Uzuri though she smiled for a brief moment. "I appreciate you trying to make me feel better though."
"And why would I try to do that if I didn't like you?" Asked Vinnie with a smile.
"I don't know; to get me all excited so you could get me more upset?" Guessed Uzuri.
"No … because I care about you, as do a lot of other people." Said Vinnie as he put his organic hand on Uzuri's shoulder.
"I don't know; I'm still a freak aren't I?" Asked Uzuri as a single tear exited her eye.
"You know what; I think I can prove to you that people care … especially me." Said Vinnie as he edged a little closer to Uzuri. "Oh please let this work."
"How?" Asked Uzuri doubtfully.
Vinnie gently wrapped his arms around Uzuri, being extra careful with his metal one, and gave her a kiss on the lips. Uzuri's eyes widened in surprise but after a moment she closed them and began kissing Vinnie back. A few moments later they parted with Uzuri looking lighter than air and Vinnie looking a little nervous about what he had just done.
"So Uzuri; does that show you people care?"
Uzuri was silent for a moment as she looked at Vinnie.
"… … YES! Whoa Vinnie; is that what a kiss is like?" Asked Uzuri in her normal childish, sunny and cheerful voice. "That was wonderful! Chris was so wrong, people do care …"
Uzuri then trailed off as she looked at Vinnie.
"So … do you like me?" Asked Uzuri nervously and sweetly. "Like, really like me?"
"Guilty as charged." Smiled Vinnie. "I've been attracted to your for a while and recently I think I've fallen in love with you. I've been trying to cheer you up all day; it pained me to see you so sad."
"Sorry that I've been so miserable; it's just … Chris's words really upset me. And I've never had any friends before coming on this show. But I shouldn't have listened to that bloody stupid ripped carcass, what does he know about caring?" Smiled Uzuri widely. "And you know what Vinnie?"
"What is it?" Asked Vinnie.
"I love you too." Giggled Uzuri shyly. "I have for a while now; I even drew a sketch of you in my sketchbook. Its funny isn't it? We're both pretty oddball and both of us are attracted to each other like Jigsaw is to torture. Teehee!"
"Its wonderful to have you back Uzuri." Said Vinnie with a smile. "But … does this mean we're together now?"
"Only if you want to be." Said Uzuri with a smile ands a look of nervousness. "I mean, I'd like us to be, but only if you want to."
"I do want." Said Vinnie with a grin matching Barney's. "So; shall we watch the sunset or go back to camp?"
"Lets watch the sunset; it's a very nice evening." Smiled Uzuri. "And maybe later we could watch one of the horror movies I bought along … but I warn you mister, I get really cuddly when I watch a great horror movie! Teehee!"
"I look forward to it." Smiled Vinnie as he put his organic arm around Uzuri as they watched the sunset.
Confessional: Achievement unlocked! Two couples in one episode!
Uzuri: (She is bouncing up and down in excitement). This is wonderful! I really do have friends and now I have a boyfriend! No matter what Chris says now he can't upset me! He's a big jerk face! I finally feel complete after years of loneliness. I love this show … and Vinnie of course! Teehee!
Vinnie: While this day started off pretty bad it is no burned into my memory as one of the best that I have ever had; I feel content with today. But I wonder what horror movie Uzuri is planning on watching; I hope it isn't too graphic.
Chris stood on the dock of shame while the sun was almost completely set. He smiled for the audience as he began to do the daily outro.
"And so it looks like the freaks have found love, Uzuri and Vinnie I mean. And so have Oscar and Xaria. And with Raven gone Team Grenade no longer has a number advantage. Who will be the next person to walk the dock of shame? Will Kasimar's action ever catch up with him? How long will the new couples last? And will Spider ever grow a pair and tell Quana how he feels? Find out next time on Total Drama Letterz!"
Votes: - N/A Raven was eliminated due to injury.
Voted off: Daisy, Patch, Fifi, Nakia, Carlton, Yessica, Hector, Zita, Andy, Irene, Wallace, Gary, Raven
And sadly Raven is gone. It's a shame really as I liked her, but it had to be done. You'll see her again pretty soon though. Kasimar may have JUST managed to escape this time but his luck's gonna run our sooner or later, and when it does … (Grins evilly).
Next time: The third episode of Total Ousted Aftermath where Irene, Wallace, Gary and Raven are interviewed.