Disclaimer: I do not own Total Drama.
Note: Well, last chapter sure was a controversial one huh? I guess that's what I get for writing for many hours in one go without any breaks to step back and look at things objectionably. But you know what they say, that true skill comes from failure. Hopefully this chapter will make up for it; the morality in this one is really grey and interesting, I feel. I'm hoping to finish this story is about two months time; it's all planned out and I feel lots of inspiration, so I think I can pull it off. Wish me luck on that. But now, on with episode 18!
Hide and shriek!
It was dark and chilly; night hung over Chris Island like a bad smell hung over a pig farm. There was a lack of foreboding fog, but that didn't make things any less creepy looking. Chris stood next to the Boot of Shame ready to give the recap, while SARA stood off to the side, its screen illuminating the area around it.
"I wonder why some humans are scared of the dark. Night is actually quite beautiful." Mused SARA.
"Some people are weird." Shrugged Chris.
"Like half the people you recruit for this show?" Noted SARA.
"Now you're getting it." Smirked Chris.
Chris then turned to face the camera and threw up his arms dramatically.
"Last time on Total Drama: Brains VS Brawns we officially reached the merge! With the ten players still here from the start, plus returnees Trey and Bianca all sharing one camp it was only a matter of time before things began to heat up, and sure enough they did. John got Cy, Diamond and Wittney into an alliance of seven with himself and the rest of the Brawns in hopes of turning the tide of the votes, but Cy was planning to play double agent, and Wittney made use of her many alliances to ensure the target would not fall to her ex-crush Ollie. All this, and family and friend visitors." Exclaimed Chris.
"And some who were neither." Added SARA.
"True." Admitted Chris. "So, Ruth's guest got arrested, Trey's dad is a drunken mess, Ollie battled his twin which somehow ended up heart-warming, Cy's younger brother told him that his twin brother Sly is getting out of the clink, Patsy turns out to have a rather flamboyant cousin, and Rai has quite a douche of an ex boyfriend. I guess sometimes it's better to have not loved at all, eh? After some bonding and battling, they went through several mini challenges ranging from curry eating to skipping to piñata whacking to even something as insane as archery. No the end, Moe won immunity much to everybody's surprise."
"Except for his fans. They always believed in him." Stated SARA. "… Also, Deathspank is the best surname ever."
"Second best behind McLean." Smirked Chris. "After I was threatened and bullied by two so called heroes Ollie and Rai to help their twin and give them medication respectively, it was time for the traditional pre-vote scrambling. John's big alliance was gonna vote for Ollie, but Wittney got them to vote for Patsy instead, and then attempted to get Patsy's alliance to help her get rid of John. But earlier in the day Trey had learnt of Cy, Diamond and Wittney's double dealing and of Wittney being in multiple alliances and wasted no time in telling his allies. Thus, even with the Cloaked Shadow threatening Patsy and Ollie from the, well, shadows … it was Wittney who took the Boot of Shame and placed twelfth on the leader-board."
"And then the Cloaked Shadow stole Rai's medication and an intruder arrived on the island before you ended the episode for the sake of a cliffhanger." Said SARA, summing up everything else.
"Pretty much, yeah. But it sets up this episode for a great beginning. It's all about editing and 'story' arcs." Smirked Chris before turning to the camera. "So, we're down to eleven and once again almost half the cast has fallen. Alliances are stable, but not solid and anybody could turn traitor and turncoat. Plus, the Cloaked Shadow and the intruder are both on the island and ready to cause trouble. Quite frankly I'm starting to wonder if I should ask the cast for their measurement so I can order some coffins!"
"Not funny." Said SARA flatly.
"Humour is subjective, and besides, robots can't laugh." Taunted Chris. "So, will Diamond keep riding Cy's coattails? Will Cy return to his old tricks of searching for idols? With Wittney booted, is Ollie's only hope of survival to win immunity? Will Rai be able to retrieve her precious medication? After her fiasco last episode, will Ruth start to branch out and do things her own way … or will she disappoint us all? Will Moe death spank the Brains a second time in a row? And who will be the next person voted off, and place eleventh? Find out right not on Total Drama: Brains VS Brawns!"
"Best watched with a barf bag close at hand." Added SARA.
(Theme Song, I Wanna Be Famous)
(The Forest)
Rai jogged through the forest, following the arrows that pointed her in the direction of her currently unknown destination. She had a look of determination of her face and was letting nothing slow her down. Whenever a branch got in her way she would snap it off the tree it protruded from, and when a vine hung in her path Rai simply ripped it out of the forest canopy it hung from. Nothing would stand between Rai and her medication.
"Whoever took my pills is dead! They better hope they are faster than me because if I catch them … oooo, they're gonna wish it was Freddy Fazbear compared to what I'm gonna do!" Declared Rai. "Pills or not, I won't back down."
Rai ran onwards, passing by another arrow and changing directions to where it was telling her to go. Soon enough she slowed to a walk so she could catch her breath.
"Urgh, how far does this nutter want me to go? The moon?" Asked Rai in annoyance.
Rai soon arrived at her destination; a huge mass of sharp thorns and brambles lay ahead in a clump with no visible path around it that Rai could see. A note was pinned to a nearby tree. Feeling slightly nervous Rai took the note off the tree and began to read it.
-Are you prepared to suffer to get your pills back? I have placed your pills at the safe zone at the centre of this mass of thorns. If you want your medication back, you must crawl like the animal you are through the sharp thorns all the way to the centre. Stay safe and off your meds, or get cut and scratched to get back on them. Make your choice.
The Cloaked Shadow-
Rai was wide eyed and trembling a little after reading that. She dropped the note and took a few breaths as she leaned against the tree.
"This outfit … if I go into the thorns like this, it's gonna hurt..." Mumbled Rai, before narrowing her eyes. "I'm not backing down! I need those pills, and this cray-cray person is probably in there waiting for me. Get ready shadow man! I'm coming for you!"
Rai approached the sharp mass of thorns and, after taking a breath and summoning her courage, crawled into the small opening and entered.
"Ack!" Yelped Rai as she felt a sharp thorn poke her in the leg. "Nggh, it'll take more than that to stop me."
Rai crawled onwards, a pained look on her face. Her leotard may have been good for mobility and such, but for protection from thorn is did very little. Rai felt a lot of pain in her arms and legs, but pressed onwards, though she wasn't sure how much further she had to go since she could not see an exit. Rai then saw she was coming to towards a two way junction. A note had been left on the ground, which Rai picked up.
-Left or right … take your pick, and try not to guess wrong-
Rai grimaced, both from the thorns poking at her as well as the fact only one of the two directions would lead to the exit.
"Err ... umm … left." Decided Ra as she carefully crawled down the left passage, yelping in pain as a thorn lightly cut her. "OWWW!"
Rai could feel a small dribble of blood on her leg, but bit her lip and tried to ignore it as she crawled onwards. However, Rai went pale when she rounded another corner, carefully of course, and came to a dead end.
"Sh*t! Urrrgh, gotta turn around." Moaned Ra in anguish ."F*ck you shadow man!"
Rai carefully turned herself around, holding back tears and screams. Even with her gymnastics skill, the thorny tunnel was too tight to turn around in without serious pain. With a pained expression and a snarl of anger and determination Rai crawled back the way she came, soon arriving back at the intersection and going down the correct passageway. Rai could feel she was bleeding in more than one place, but tried her hardest to ignore the pain as she crawled onwards.
"I'm not gonna scream … I'm not gonna cry … I'm not gonna give this maniac the satisfaction..." Hissed Rai, before a look of hope appeared on her face. "The exit! Yes!"
Rai had spotted the exit and, with much relief, made her way towards it. Rai crawled out of the sharp tunnel and collapsed, moaning in pain.
"I hope somebody back at camp knows how to make bandages." Mumbled Rai before she weakly got to her feet. "Urgh, I'm gonna need to wash myself … and with these cuts, the sea isn't an option. Urrrgh..."
Rai saw she was alone, with her torturer nowhere in sight. Rai then gasped in horror as her gaze landed on her pills … or at least, what was once her pills. All that was left of them was a smashed tube and crushed tablets mixed with dirt, making them useless.
"No, no, no … nonononono! NOOOOOO!" Yelled Rai in panic. "My pills!"
Rai then saw a note was pinned to the tree. With trembled hands she took it off the tree and read it.
-You want your pills back, do you?
You can't.
The Cloaked Shadow-
Rai let out a scream of rage and anger, and dropped her her knees, heaving and gasping. Suddenly she spotted something nearby. An article of clothing was caught in the thorns nearby. Rai approached it and gasped when she saw what it was.
Ollie's beanie.
Rai's expression darkened as she grabbed the hat, an expression of hatred and loathing on her face.
"Busted. Oh, you are gonna get it now..." Growled Rai.
Rai saw that, a the side of the thorn clump opposite to where she had entered there was a tunnel carved out. A piece of paper was next to it with a troll-face drawn on it. Rai grabbed the paper and tore it to shreds as she boldly walked out of the sharp place of torture. However, as Rai was walking, she noticed something that was hidden amongst the thorn.
"Eh? What's that?" Pondered Rai as she reached for the object.
Rai pulled the object out, and her eyes lit up in hope when she saw that it was the Brawn Immunity Idol, rehidden for the merge.
"Oh, yeah." Grinned Rai, narrowing her eyes. "Watch out shadow man, the lights are being turned on."
(Confessional: Ooooo, this is getting good! *Grabs popcorn*)
Rai: Leaving your hat behind and not noticing the idol? Big mistake Ollie. You're gonna be so doomed you'll be all, like … err … yo know … doomed! Yeah!
Meanwhile back at the sandcastle fort Ollie was sleeping soundly, looking to be out like a rock.
"Zzzzz … stop … hammer time..." Mumbled Ollie in his slumber.
SMASH!
A rock was thrown through the window, smashing it to pieces. Ollie woke up with a yelp of fright looking around wildly.
"Ack! What was that?!" Yelped Ollie nervously.
Ollie then saw the rock, which had a note attached to it. With shaky hands Ollie took the note off the rock and began to read.
-So, you choose friendship over your own safety? Let's hope it will be worth what I've got in store for you. Little boy, watch your step. I could be watching you right now.
There is no escape except elimination.
The Cloaked Shadow-
Ollie ran to the window and looked over, hoping to catch sight of whoever had thrown the rock. To his dismay, whoever it was seemed to be gone.
"Keep calm Ollie … you're safe in here. They wouldn't get you where people could witness it." Murmured Ollie. "… Crap, I need to talk to Patsy about this..."
Ollie then noticed that something was amiss.
"Hey, where's my hat?" Asked Ollie in confusion. "It was right by the bed … did somebody steal it? That's kinda creepy..."
There was a knock at the door, making Ollie yelp.
"Who is it?" Asked Ollie nervously.
"Just me." Said Diamond from beyond the door. "I heard a smash ... is everything ok?"
"… No, it's not." Said Ollie as he opened the door. "Can you come in … just for a while?"
"Um, ok." Said Diamond, looking uneasy at the sight of the broken glass. "What happened…?"
"Let's just say I'm not gonna be watching my own shadow." Murmured Ollie.
"Oh no! You mean .. the Cloaked Shadow is still here?! And … they are after you?!" Asked Diamond sounding scared. "Oh nonononono!"
"I'll be fine … I hope. I'd just rather not be alone tonight, so … could you stay with me?" Asked Ollie hopefully. "I'll take the floor, don't worry."
"Um … well … I guess so. I mean, there is safety in numbers, and stuff." Murmured Diamond. "Sweet dreams … hopefully."
"I'm gonna need them." Agreed Ollie.
(Confessional: Simply smashing!)
Ollie: Bugger me, why do I always get stuck in these situations? Not only do I have a nutter coming after me, but I'm out of allies … unless Cy is willing to help me out. Looks like I may have to start upping my game a bit, and I'm hopeless at that. Wish me luck at being devious.
Diamond: I hope the Cloaked Shadow won't come after me next! Cy, help me!
(The Next Morning at the Balanced Beauties Campsite)
John and Ruth were at the rock-pool area, gathering shellfish for breakfast. John picked one up and examined it.
"You know, it's funny … even though Trey can build such a great shelter, he can't make food that isn't composed of sand. I guess you can't have everything." Noted John.
"If we have everything, we'd be unable to desire. To desire is to live." Stated Ruth. "Of course, some zealots say that to die is to live … cults are creepy."
"That they are." Agreed John. "Speaking of creepy, can I ask you something … about, well, everything?"
Ruth paused, looking uncertain.
"What do you want to ask?" Said Ruth as she sat down on a rock. "Ask me and I shall try to provide an answer."
John considered his words as he sat down next to Ruth.
"You're been through so much trauma and despair … and yet, here you are … looking unaffected by it. I mean, you were a wreck yesterday, but now you're … stoic." Said John, looking almost uneasy. "How are you so calm again so quickly?"
"… I prefer to cry on the inside. I don't like to show it." Stated Ruth. "Showing emotions is like asking to be pitied. I don't want that … I want to be my own woman from now on."
"There's nothing wrong with having a shoulder to lean on if you need it." Assured John. "To be calm on the outside again after yesterday shows you are strong, but even the strong have feelings. I should know. Besides, you must be miserable on the inside … right?"
Ruth paused, and sighed.
"I feel like I have been killed on the inside." Admitted Ruth. "I have no idea what to do. But I've followed others for so long … I need to find my own way now. I need to hang on as long as I can."
"… Do you think you are fit to stay in the game? After all that has happened … think you need proper care you can't get here." Admitted John.
"I'm not quitting." Sad Ruth firmly.
"And good on you for that. I'm just saying … if the pain inside gets to be too much, I would not blame you or look down on you for quitting." Said John gently. "It's up to you. My goal is to get us Brawns all to the end, but really, your feelings matter more than strategy, something I was once blind to. I say all this not as a head bully or leader, but as a friend."
"… You are a good friend." Agreed Ruth. "But … I can do this. I just need to keep calm, have enough quiet time, and I should be outclass Chuck Norris."
"High expectations." Noted John.
"Call me cannabis then." Said Ruth in monotone.
"… Ok, that was a good joke." Chuckled John.
"What joke?" Asked Ruth.
(Confessional: She's holding it in, just like a fart in a public elevator.)
John: I guess even before this nightmare began for her, Ruth was never the emotional sort. It can be a strategic asset, as a poker face always helps, but keeping in such a lot of pain never helps. But, if Ruth is truly ready to get stuck in and start playing her own way, I won't stop her. Maybe I might learn something from her?
Ruth: Call me Darkwing Duck, because I am going to get dangerous. Pain don't hurt.
Patsy stood on the roof of the sandcastle fort looking out at the campsite and observing the other players mill around. A frown appeared n her face.
"Any one of those people could be the Cloaked Shadow." Muttered Patsy. "Whoever they are, they put on a good act of being a normal person. Who is it? There must be some way to find out, some clue I may have missed. Heck, maybe it's that ginger girl who got voted off first and she's hiding in the woods."
Patsy adjusted her shades and looked around at the camp site again.
"Hey, where's Rai? And Bianca?" Pondered Patsy, noticing those two were absent. "Well, right now I'd rather not see Bianca..."
"Why not?" Asked a voice behind Patsy.
Patsy yelped in alarmed surprise, and turned to see Bianca was standing behind her, looking uncertain.
"Did I do something to upset you? What was it? Was it my snoring? Yeah, it was wasn't it? I am sorry, but it's not my fault my snoring is louder than Trey's evil laughter!" Insisted Bianca.
"Its not that. I didn't even realise that was you. I thought it was a bear or something." Admitted Patsy. "Look, it's nothing."
"It must be something if you say it's nothing. I know how people work." Replied Bianca. "Is this something to do with strategy? I followed the plan and voted for Wittney, just like you said."
"Good to know I can trust you … unlike everybody else." Muttered Patsy.
"What do you mean? Isn't the final eleven a little bit early to be consumed by idol paranoia?" Asked Bianca in concern. "I swear, me and Trey don't have any idols. I'm not sure if Fosley does or not, but he does nothing so he probably doesn't."
"It isn't that, though it's nice to know. It's just … err..." Patsy trailed off, trying to choose the right words. "It's not you, its me."
Bianca cocked her head, looking a little confused.
"Don't people usually say that when they break up? I must have been sending mixed messages." Chuckled Bianca awkwardly. "You're my friend Patsy, but … I don't swing that way. I play for PS3, not X-box."
"Yuck, no. That's not what I meant." Gagged Patsy. "I don't even know if I like anybody that way. Look, it's ... err … ok, I'll ell you. The Cloaked Shadow, the one who broke my arm, threatened me by letter to vote for you or they'd break my other arm. Sorry, and stuff..."
Bianca blinked, and then shrugged.
"Is that all? Eh, one vote isn't gonna do anything to me." Assured Bianca. "Less frowning, more smiling! Why not think about your next devious plan. What usually cheers you up, if I recall correctly."
Patsy was silent, and then smirked.
"You're right. Scheming does make me feel better." Grinned Patsy. "Who to send out the door next? Perhaps Cy?"
"Wherever it is, try not to vote me again just to save your own skin." Teased Bianca. "I might have to start calling you yellow belly! Heehee!"
Patsy frowned.
(Confessional: Well, Bianca took that well.)
Bianca: Ok, really, it hurts Patsy voted against me instead of, you know, telling me what was going on. I wasn't even here when Mr or Mrs Cloak started their rampage, so she should know it can't possibly be me. It's elementary, as Sherlock Holmes would say. But, if its not me, Trey or Patsy … who could it be? Maybe I should do some investigating…
Patsy: I do hope Wittney was Cloaky, but chances are he or she is still here. But as always, I'm keeping my eyes on the prize. At present, voting off Cy would be best. I know he can't be trusted and, really, I'm starting to think he might be Cloaky. All the more reason to vote with extreme prejudice. Also, it's great Bianca is cool with what happened … she'd have done the same in my position, I am sure.
"Mwahahaha! This is genius!" Cackled Trey to himself.
Using a sand shovel, Trey was digging hole near the forest at the far side of the beach. It may have been a paradox, but it was effective as the hole had a good level of depth to it. Trey smirked as he set down the shovel and looked at a nearby camera that was positioned in a tree, filming the nearby area.
"Take note bloodthirsty fans, this is the ever classic pit trap! It's use? Why, trapping people in its hellishly deep depths of course! If somebody steps over the cover I shall be putting on it momentarily, or if somebody is bad and needs a time out, down the hole they will go! Mwahahahaha!" Cackled Trey maniacally. "Plus, I'm sure Bianca will be impressed. Girls like a guy with a big hole, right?"
Trey grabbed a nearby covering made out of long sticks and some leaves covered in sand and dragged it over the it. Due to al the sand on it, the cover blended in rather well with the beach.
"Ah, perfect." Chuckled Trey in satisfaction.
"What are you doing?" Asked Fosley as he walked up. "I heard laughter and figured you were doing something 'evil'."
"Oh, nothing. Nothing at all. Wasn't ding anything." Assured Trey, clearly holding back laughter.
Fosley raised an eyebrow, but shrugged.
"If you say so." Said Fosley, sounding uninterested. "So, let's talk game. Who do you consider the biggest threat?"
"Obviously myself. I was the one who got Wittney out in the first place, after all." Smirked Trey.
"… Right." Said Fosley, sounding slightly impatient. "Ok, who's the second biggest threat?"
"Bianca, of course. She is my right hand girl and, in matter of fact, my equal. Where we walk, civilians flee and scream, both in terror and out of admiration." Declared Trey.
Fosley face-palmed and then pinched the bridge of his nose, looking impatient.
"Ok, let me phrase this nice and easy. Who do you think we should vote off, out of everybody who is not in our alliance?" Asked Fosley, sounding annoyed.
"Oh, in that case it'd probably be John because he's good at football, and a football player automatically gets the girls. Cy as well, because his laugh might make our ears bleed." Said Trey rather nonchalantly. "Now, since you're here, want to hear some life advice?"
"I'll pass. Later." Said Fosley as he turned and walked away, looking glad to go.
"Then take heed! The most common sexually transmitted disease is life!" Exclaimed Trey.
Fosley could only shake his head.
"He's more of a loon than the kind of bird." Muttered Fosley.
(Confessional: Impatience is a virtue.)
Trey: You know, sometimes I feel people don't take me seriously enough. Joke's on them because I've already got nine people voted off … Wittney and the saps who didn't make the merge because I was holding one of the ugly mug idols. Tonight, I bring my victim count into the double digits! (Trey leans against a tree). I wonder if Bianca is impressed … call me crazy for thinking it, but I kinda care what she thinks of me. Heh, it's almost like she's the woman behind the man, am I right?
Fosley: Urrrrrgh, why does that guy have to be in the alliance? I'd prefer somebody slightly less insane, like Ollie or even Ruth since she's quiet. His reasons may be stupid, but Trey had a point … Cy and John both need to go in the short term. I'm sure me and Patsy can find a way; we're the smartest players here quite frankly.
Cy walked through camp whistling a little tune to himself. He seemed quite chill and relaxed.
"Nice day today. Perfect weather to make it to the top ten." Chuckled Cy. "Then again, its always good weather to get closer to the finale."
Cy walked on and spotted Ollie walking up to him.
"Hey dude, how's it going?" Asked Cy. "What up?"
"Oh, you know, just trying to survive." Said Ollie with a shrug. "Our alliance is still on right? I'm kinda out of allies right now."
"This is why you gotta branch out dude. And sure, it's still on." Winked Cy. "You can count on me."
"Really? Because you got Wittney kicked off last night, and she was my ally." Frowned Ollie. "You said as much when you confirmed she was voted off for being a threat, so don't try to deny it."
Cy raised his hands in mock surrender and giggled.
"Ok, ok, ya got me. I'll admit that I voted for her." Said Cy truthfully.
"Why would you? She was my ally, and thus yours by extension. I think this counts as a back-stab by proxy." Said Ollie firmly. "May I just ask why?"
"First of all, 'back-stab by proxy' should be a heavy metal album name." Grinned Cy. "Second, do you know how many alliances the girl was in? I think she was allied directly with just about everybody, except me. When you have connections like that, you have a big say in the votes … nobody wants to have somebody that powerful around, huhuhuhuh."
"… Ok, I guess that makes sense." Relented Ollie. "So, who do you want to vote off?"
"I don't know, really." Admitted Cy. "I'm actually thinking' that Rai being back on her meds makes her a threat … beyond that, I'll wait until I see who is immune."
"Rai huh? She's never done me any wrong … but if it keeps me around, I'll bite." Decided Ollie. "Say, you seen Patsy anywhere?"
"Nope, can't say I have." Replied Cy. "Later."
Cy walked off, whistling a tune again, leaving Ollie alone.
"This is so crazy … every time I have a conversation, I could be talking to The Cloaked Shadow." Muttered Ollie. "I'd better strike first … and also find my hat."
Ollie the noticed Bianca was skipping by.
"Hey, Bianca! Can I ask you a question?" Called Ollie.
"Oh, sure. What's on your mind?" Asked Bianca with a smile.
"Do you know where Patsy is? I wanted to ask her something." Stated Ollie. "Seen her around?"
"Yep! She's on the roof of the sand castle, scheming and planning, and having a monologue worthy view of the campsite." Confirmed Bianca cheerfully. "What did you want to ask her about?"
"Oh, just stuff." Assured Ollie. "Nothing about you, don't worry."
"Cool. Have fun." Said Bianca as she skipped away, humming a tune.
"… Looks like I can at least be safe in the knowledge she and Trey aren't the Cloaked Shadow." Noted Ollie.
(Confessional: Ollie must be feeling overshadowed. *rimshot*)
Cy: Ollie is kinda right to be cheesed Wittney is off. Lord knows I shipped them. (Cy chuckles) The Brawns sorta got their way as a Brain went home, but ya know, I'm aware of how if I stuck with them, then me and Diamond would be outnumbered four to one. So, huhuhuhuh, time to get rid of one of those muscle men … and women.
Ollie: I'm really not sure who to vote off now. Maybe the fact I'm nearly alone will make me a non threat? Or maybe as a fellow victim of Cloaky, Patsy will make sure I stick around? If that fails … I'll have to start thinking like Wally. Not a bad thing, but he was always more tough in a contest than me.
Cy walked onwards, his conversation with Ollie finished, and gazed around in search of a certain someone.
"Now, where is she." Pondered Cy. "Diamond! Are you here?"
Cy received no response.
"Diamond, it's just me!" Insisted Cy. "I wanted to run a plan by you."
A nearby bush shuffled a little, and Diamond poked her head out.
"What are you ding in there Di?" Asked Cy with a chuckle.
"Hiding." Mumbled Diamond.
"… From me?" Asked Cy, sounding hurt.
"No, from the Cloaked Shadow." Mumbled Diamond. "They were threatening Ollie … and I might be next!"
Diamond withdrew herself back into the bush, trembling.
"If I stay hidden and out of sight, they'll leave me alone." Said Diamond. "I'm staying here until the challenge starts."
Cy sat down next to the bush and reached in so he could gently hold Diamond's hand.
"If they try anything, I'll keep you safe." Promised Cy. "If they think they have an ace, I'll rip them a brand new face."
Diamond once again poked her head out of the bush.
"Thank you..." Said Diamond gratefully. "Mummy was wrong to disapprove of you."
Cy raised and eyebrow. Diamond winced, realising what she had said.
"Your mum doesn't approve?" Asked Cy, frowning slightly. "…Why?"
"Well … mummy is overprotective, but … well … oh, I can't say with good reason without being rude, can I?" Mumbled Diamond. "She was just concerned because you are kinda slightly devious and inappropriate."
"Everybody has flaws." Insisted Cy.
"I know … but, my family is all meek and quiet, like me. Since they are watching the show, maybe if you act sweet, they might like you more? Think of it as appealing to fans." Suggested Diamond.
"I hate changing myself to fit society." Grumbled Cy, before smiling a little. "But, if it means having your folks like me … I'll give it a try. For starters, I'll get boobs off my mind, post haste."
Diamond blushed and covered her chest.
"Naughty." Said Diamond with a pout and a firm tone.
"Yeah, I gotta work on that." Chuckled Cy.
"You can start by thinking of five non physical things you like about me. Tell me after the challenge." Suggested Diamond.
"Easy as pie." Saluted Cy.
(Confessional: But harder than cake.)
Cy: So, not only do I have to worry about keeping me and Diamond safe all the way to the finale … but I have to ease up on hard game-play and naughty jokes because her family does not yet approve? I would say oh bugger, but I like a challenge.
Moe was walking around, looking for Rai.
"Rai! Rai! Come out, come out, wherever you are!" Called Moe. "… Is it my breath? Do I smell! Rai, don't we all smell since we all have noses?"
Moe received no response, making him frown in worry.
"Rai Wu, where are you?" Called Moe.
(Confessional: The same place as Scooby Doo.)
Moe: I've been looking for Rai for a while now … ten minutes I think? I was trying to be, well, um … romantic. You know, bring her breakfast in bed, sand toast and sand frosties, but she wasn't in any of the rooms. I hope she's ok. If she was hurt, that'd be bad.
"Rai! Please answer me! If you've gone deaf, just say so!" Exclaimed Moe.
"Over here!" Called Rai from somewhere nearby. "Please, come alone! Don't let Ollie near me!"
Moe jogged to the source of the voice, rounding a large boulder, and gasped. Rai was sitting on the other side, gingerly picking thorns out of some light cuts and painful looking scratches, a pained expression on her face. There was some dried blood on her legs.
"Oh my gosh! Rai, what happened?!" Asked Moe, sounding horrified. "Did the boogey man do this!?"
"No … that Shadow Man guy the Brains were talking about did it." Hissed Rai in pain as she took out another thorn. "He stole my meds while I was sleeping and baited me into the woods … I was stupid … I went out there by myself. He … he out my pills in the centre of a massive growth of sharp thorns and brambles … I had to crawl through them to get my pills; it hurt so bad, but I didn't give up. He … he destroyed my pills!"
Rai started to sob, to which Moe quickly embraced her in a gentle hug.
"It'll be ok. Come on, where's that smile I love so much?" Said Moe sweetly. "Also … why do you not want Ollie near you? And, why do you think the shadow man is a man?"
Rai was silent, almost shaking in anger, before she reached behind her and showed Ollie's hat.
"I found this in the thorn bush. It was him the whole time." Said Rai darkly. "I'm gonna kick it ass! ...Owwww … once I get the thorns out and wash myself up that is."
"Would you like some held with that?" Offered Moe.
"… That'd be nice." Said Rai gratefully.
"Yay! I shall be right back!" Declared Moe as he jogged off.
Rai smiled for a moment, before gazing at Ollie's hat.
"You're not gonna have a head to be put on very soon." Vowed Rai. "For all the people you've hurt, you're going more down than a mole!"
Soon enough Moe returned with a sponge and a bowl of water.
"Where did you get those?" Asked Rai.
"The cupboard under the sand sink." Stated Moe. "Ok, I shall be more gentle than a massage therapist. I bet whoever did this needs therapy."
"Totally." Agreed Rai, a bitter chuckle escaping her.
Rai gently raised her leg and rested it on Moe's lap. Moe dabbed the sponge in the water and began to gently rub it on Rai's leg to clean up the dried blood stains. This continued in silence for a while, though occasionally the two make would make eye contact, before quickly looking away with a faint blush.
"Thanks for doing this." Said Rai quietly. "It's nice..."
"I just do what makes people happy. After all, when people smile, they cannot frown." Said Moe wisely.
"Whoa, that is so true." Said Rai in wonder. "Of cruse, they can be smiling sweetly on the outside, but have a slasher smile on the inside..."
"Happy thoughts, like monster trucks. We'll think about Ollie after this." Assured Moe.
Moe continued the gentle sponging, gradually cleaning Rai up. The sponge passed over a cut and Rai winced.
"Owwww..." Mumbled Rai.
"Eek! Sorry! Are you hurt?!" Asked Moe in panic.
"… I'll be fine." Assured Rai.
Rai put her other leg on Moe's lap and the process repeated. As before, some eye contact was made. Soon enough, but all too soon, Rai was cleaned up and felt just a little bit better.
"Thanks Moe." Said Rai, a twinkle in her eye.
"Any time, even at Christmas." Said Moe modestly. "So, what are we gonna do about Ollie?"
"I have a perfect plan." Sad Rai darkly. "We'll put him in a box, put that box in a bigger box and then mail to to my house were I will smash him with a hammer!"
There was an award silence.
"How about we just use our words and let him know the game is up? No need to come to blows. The only thing that should be physical is love." Suggested Moe. "That and wrestling."
"Eh, I guess that works too." Agreed Rai. "Let's go."
(Confessional: Rai and Moe … where they Yzma and Kronk in a previous life?)
Moe: The bomb is about to go off. Bombs are bad, mmkay?
Rai: Ok, time to do something scary … but with Moe by my side, I can take down Ollie just like I took down Sarge. And this time, I'll be leading the charge.
Ruth waked along the beach searching for somebody, anybody, to talk to. Soon enoguh she sotted Bianca sitting nearby watching the waves.
"You." Said Ruth as she walked up.
"Me?" Replied Bianca.
"Yes." Confirmed Ruth.
"Yes me?" Repeated Bianca.
"Yes you." Nodded Ruth.
"You?" Asked Bianca.
"No, you." Said Ruth.
"Not me?" Said Bianca, sounding confused.
Ruth looked like she had a head ache.
"Stop." Said Ruth in monotone. "Idea. You don't vote for me and I don't vote for you. Do you understand?"
"Sounds like a good deal to me. Sure!" Smiled Bianca. "Did John tell you to do that?"
"No." Said Ruth. "I am going over there now. You sit there and think about how this alliance will benefit you."
"I can do that." Nodded Bianca, giving a thumbs up. "Also, now its my turn to ask you a question. Are you the Cloaked Shadow?"
"No, I am not." Replied Ruth.
"Ok, just making sure." Stated Bianca as she returned to watching the waves.
(Confessional: Sometimes you just need to ask.)
Ruth: I did strategy. My Total Drama experience is now complete.
Bianca: I guess I'll need a better approach than outright asking people, huh? But I've thought of reasons it might be Ruth. She is strong, fast and … probably able to physically do all the stuff Mr or Mrs Shadow has done. Plus, she tends to just stand back and not bring attention to herself, and stuff. But she's such a follower, or was at least, and her visitor tried to attack her, I think. I'll call her very unlikely, but not outright impossible. (Bianca holds her head and moans). Bloody hell! How does Sherlock make this look so easy?!
Patsy was still on the roof of the sandcastle fort, thinking over her next move.
"The Brawns need to go while the Bran still have the number advantage. Even if I have to cast my vote away again to save my working arm, it won't matter too much right now." Muttered Patsy. "It's got to be John or Rai; they are the most dangerous Brawns. If one is immune, the other is doomed. But if neither are immune … eh, I'll leave it to democracy and see what the alliance thinks."
Patsy looked out at the campsite again, gazing at the other contestants milling about here and there.
"But, which one of them is it." Muttered Patsy, looking agitated. "Could I vote off the right one by chance sooner or later? Or maybe they'll get medivacked with two broken arms? Whichever comes first, heheheh."
Patsy heard footsteps approaching her and quickly turned around to see who it was. Ollie was approaching her, a serious look on his face.
"Hello." Greeted Ollie. "We need to talk."
"About what? Voting off the Brawns?" Asked Patsy.
"No. About the Cloaked Shadow." Stated Ollie seriously. "They were threatening me last night, and I didn't do what they wanted. Did they do anything to you?"
Patsy looked somewhat relieved for a moment.
"Yes, they did. They told be to vote for Bianca or they'd break my other arm. I did what they wanted." Said Patsy, glancing back at the campsite and the other campers.
"… May I ask why you sound relieved at a time like this?" Asked Ollie, seeming confused.
"Well, I did as I was told to. You didn't. Cloaky is gonna come after you first and that buys me some time to prepare myself for what he or she does next." Said Patsy, tapping her fingers against her cast.
Ollie looked stunned.
"What?! I can understand that fact you may be scared, but … are you seriously saying you're using me a sort of shield to keep this nutter busy?! We're both in the same situation, we should be working together on this!" Said Ollie with a frown.
"Hey, this person broke my arm. Look at me, do you think my body can take much more abuse like that?! I'm ok with making friends, but my own safety comes first. It's basic instinct Ollie; you need to look out for number one above all else in life. Besides, it's not my fault that you didn't do what they wanted. Don't pin that on me." Said Patsy, looking a mixture of angry and nervous. "Bravery, while noble, is the exact opposite of self preservation."
Ollie stared at Patsy, unable to figure out what to say for a few moments.
"Patsy, I could have voted you off for getting rid of Liv, but I kept you around to get more information on this person. I've gotten myself involved to take them down and that's why you're not alone in this. I admit, we're not friends, but I do want to help you and stop this monster … are you really gonna leave me to shadow dude's mercy to save your own skin?" Asked Ollie, looking hurt.
Patsy did not make eye contact with Ollie. Whether it was guilt or because she simply didn't want to look at the guy she was leaving hanging, it was uncertain
"You got involved to avenge Liv most of all, don't deny it. Don't blame me for your emotions making you act rashly. If you can nearly win immunity against eleven other duos, you can fight this guy solo." said Patsy while taking a step back.
Ollie just stared at Patsy, in a mixture of disgust and pity.
"You're a coward." Said Ollie.
"Oh, don't you go playing the hero card on me! You've done some pretty bad things as well! I mean, you threatened Chris with those cops he was squirming over to you could get your brother to the Playa, not caring how he felt about it. It's just like how Cloaky is threatening others to win the prize." Hissed Patsy.
Ollie hung his head, thinking this over.
"Ok. I admit it. I was in the wrong to do that. I'm not innocent of all crimes." Agreed Ollie. "But, flaws and all, I still want to stop the Cloaked Shadow to stop them hurting anybody else and to save myself. You only want to save yourself, with other victims not mattering."
"Hey, some of don't do as well under pressure as you do." Said Patsy coolly.
There two coldly looked at each other. Ollie soon sighed and looked out at the sea.
"Why can't we all just be friends?" Lamented Ollie. "These fights … I hate them so much..."
"That's life. It is not idealistic." Said Patsy calmly.
"Too bad it took me this long to truly see that." Muttered Ollie.
(Confessional: Two victims of the same villain, two very different people.)
Ollie: I shouldn't have lost my temper back there It's just … I don't know. I should have stayed calm. I guess it was Patsy's indifference to it all that got to me. I'm already on edge from last night, so things like this are making me get … well … bitchy. As inconvenient as it is, me and Patsy need each other in this while mess, so we'll have to either learn to get along, or to hold our tongues when in each other's presence.
Patsy: Can I really be blamed for being scared? A broken bone is not exactly a small issue! I'm a thinker, not a fighter, so I can't really be of much help even if I wanted to. Plus, with Cloaky watching the cameras, and maybe even watching me right this second, elapse excuse me for trying to stay on their good side. If I can stay safe from harm for another day, it could be just the day I need to get back on top. Really, I would tell Ollie about the camera watching thing … but if the existence of my past cheating gets out, I'm done.
"You!" Said a voice boldly.
Ollie and Patsy turned to see Rai and Moe arriving on the roof from the stairs leading upwards from below. Rai looked angry, though also rather nervous, while Moe seemed focused and ready to act if anything got out of hand.
"Oh, hello Rai." Greeted Ollie, before noticing Rai's wounds. "Yikes! What happened to you?"
"Oh, I think you should know." Said Rai, taking out Ollie's hat from behind her back. "Yours I believe?"
"My hat! Thanks! Where did you find it?" Asked Ollie curiously.
Rai crossed her arms, Moe following and doing the same.
"Here it comes." Warned Moe.
Rai looked at Ollie, trembling a little but standing her ground.
"I found it by those bramble bushes last night. The spiky thorns I had to crawl through to get to my stolen meds, cutting and scratching myself horrible in the process. The medication that you stole." Hissed Rai. "Cloaked Shadow, the lights are on!"
Rai turned to Moe.
"How was that?" Asked Rai.
"Very good. Rehearse does wonders." Nodded Moe, a smile on his face.
"Aw, thanks." Smiled Rai, before turning back to Ollie and frowning again. "It's over."
Ollie looked stunned and shocked by what he was being told. Patsy glanced at him and then squealed in terror.
"Get away from me!" Pleaded Patsy as she ran to the edge of the roof and crouched down, cowering.
Ollie put up his hands and quickly shook his head.
"No! No! I'm not the Cloaked Shadow! I'm a victim just like you!" Insisted Ollie. "I wasn't in the forest last night; Diamond was with me since I was frightened. She can vouch for me! I … I … I even have letters from our mutual enemy to prove it!"
Rai was silent, having not expected this to happen.
"… Moe, go and get Diamond. Please." Requested Rai.
"On it!" Said Moe, with a salute.
Moe dashed off, leaving the three shadow victims by themselves on the roof of the sandcastle. Ollie rooted in his pockets and took out all the messages he had received from the Cloaked Shadow.
"Here. Take a look." Said Ollie gently as he offered them to Rai.
Rai hesitated, still clearly uneasy, but accepted them and began to read through them. Once she was finished a few tears were leaking out of her eyes and down her cheeks.
"I'm so sorry!" Sobbed Rai. "I didn't mean to wrongly accuse you of torture and being evil! I was just scared and stressed and I was stupid enough to fall for planted evidence! I'm sorry!"
Ollie was unsure of what to say, so he said the only sentence he could think of.
"It's ok." Assured Ollie.
Trey then arrived on the roof, his hoodie and shirt taken off, seemingly ready for some tanning. He then saw the three people on the roof.
"Hey! This is private property!" Exclaimed Trey. "Is nothing an ultra competent badass game savvy camper owns sacred anymore?!"
(Confessional: This'll make the highlight reel for sure.)
Rai: Fake evidence. Oh, why didn't I consider that? Because I'm stupid! Urrgh! (Rai takes a deep breath). Once again, I feel like crap without my meds. If this is what easy come easy go feels like, I don't like it. But, right now … I don't think I can trust anybody except Moe. For my own safety and sanity.
Ollie: Looks like I was very nearly framed. It's a good thing I didn't throw away the notes of threat I have received, huh? So, all three victims on the roof … this seems like a chance to bond.
"Why are you not wearing a shirt?" Asked Patsy, as she got up out of her cowering position.
"This is a sun roof. I am gonna get a tan. Girls like guys with a tan." Said Trey flatly. "Duh."
"… He has a point. That is true." Agreed Rai.
"But, really, enough about me. Why are you guys up here stealing my sun time." Asked Trey, crossing his arms.
"Well … there was a bit of a confrontation, but the short of it is that we are all currently targets of the Cloaked Shadow." Stated Ollie.
"I've heard about that guy. Who are they exactly?" Asked Trey curiously. "I know very little I am afraid."
Patsy was the one to speak up.
"They are some kind of crazy violent villain who is threatening us through the use of written threats, anonymity and violence that borders on torture." Stated Patsy, a scowl on her face. "I want them broken."
Trey gasped, looking shocked.
"There is somebody even worse than me I this game?! No fair! I try my best dammit!" Declared Trey, rather hammily. "They must go!"
"Yeah? And how do you suggest we do that when we don't know who they are?" Snarked Patsy, looking antsy.
"Well, this Cloaked Shadow is a mere young upstart! He or she will no doubt make mistakes that a pro like me would be immune to making." Said Trey, somewhat smugly. "You said you're all victims and receive written threats. Is the answer not obvious?"
"… No?" Said Rai, sounding uncertain.
Trey face-palmed.
"Read each others letters! See if you can find something you have in common to narrow down the villain list! Honestly, what is this, Villainy 101? You guys would not last a day at Villain Camp." Scoffed Trey. "I may be more about chaos and evil these days, but I still know how these very naughty boys and girls work. Now, silence, it is time for my tanning session."
With that Trey lay down on his back on the roof, and began to doze in the sunlight. The other three were silent, stunned at what Trey had said.
"… He's right!" Exclaimed Ollie. "Quick, letters out, let's see if we can find a pattern or something to connect us."
The girls did as asked and soon the three were looking over the notes and comparing them to each other. After a while Ollie noticed something.
"Hang on. Or latest letters … they call me the friendliest, Rai the prettiest and you, Patsy, the smartest. Do you think we might be getting targeted for being the 'best' in those areas?" Asked Ollie.
"… O-M-G! That is right! We must be dealing with somebody who is really jealous of us!" Agreed Rai.
"That or somebody who is targeting us for the strategic benefit of getting rid of those who outclass them in areas like this." Replied Patsy. "Question is … who is it? Who fits under this criteria?"
Ollie looked thoughtful.
"Anything else we have in common? Alliances, skills … something else?" Asked Ollie.
Patsy seemed to realise something.
"We're all in different alliances. And … there's only one alliance that this guy has not targeted." Realised Patsy. "Cy and Diamond. And between them … it's got to be Cy!"
"He's going down." Vowed Rai.
"But, why would he target Tyrian, Liv and Wittney before us?" Asked Ollie. "What did they have to their advantage over him?"
"Simple. Liv was the most level headed, Wittney was the most well connected and also good at floating by … and Tyrian, well, he was the meanest and Cy just took advantage of it to send us off the trail. But it's too late now." Said Patsy darkly. "He goes tonight, and we're gonna make sure it is painful."
At that moment Moe arrived with Diamond.
"I have returned!" Declared Moe. "Ok Diamond, you can tell them what you told me."
"Ollie isn't the crazy person. I was with him a lot of last night so he couldn't have gone off to the forest." Insisted Diamond.
"Um … thanks Diamond." Sad Patsy, looking awkward.
Moe and Diamond took notice of the awkward silence.
"Why are you guys so quiet?" Asked Moe.
"Oh … err … no reason." Said Ollie shiftily.
(Confessional: Like they'd safe they suspect Cy when Diamond was there.)
Trey: Those guys owe me big time.
Patsy: I know you're watching me Cy, probably panicking. It's all over now. I've got you figured out and you are at my mercy … bitch. (Patsy flips off the camera).
Rai: So, Cy was the shadow man? I should have known! But … why do I feel like I still don't know? I don't know why, but something doesn't feel right … too bad I don't know what.
John: Ruth went off on her own so I've been looking for Rai and Moe, but I can't find them anywhere. I want to get a plan laid out before the challenge, so hopefully they will show up soon. Maybe they've made some connections that could be of use?
A while later Patsy was sitting on a rock, looking out at the waves.
"Finally, it's over." Said Patsy in relief. "Now I can go back to playing this game as I want without any worries. Just gotta grab my pad back before Cy is booted and all will be well."
Fosley walked up and sat down next to Patsy.
"Hey." Greeted Fosley. "I think we should vote off either John or Cy next. They are the biggest threats to us by a good margin. Any preference who to get rid of?"
"Definitely Cy. I refuse to vote for anybody else." Stated Patsy.
"… May I ask why?" Asked Fosley.
"Because he is the cloaked shadow. It makes perfect sense." Stated Patsy.
Fosley raised an eyebrow, but seemed intrigued.
"Got any proof?" Asked Fosley.
"Yes. He's targeting everybody who is smarter, prettier or friendlier than him, along with his pre-merge victims all having strategic reasons to get rid of, and Cy is a smart guy. Plus, notice how out of every alliance and sub alliance, he and Diamond are the only ones with nobody in their ranks getting tormented?" Asked Patsy, smugly. "We've got him now."
Fosley smirked, looking equally as smug.
"Couldn't have put it better myself." Grinned Fosley. "See, this is why I, and I guess Cy as well, think you're the smartest person here … figuring out things like this. Colour me impressed."
"It's what I do." Said Patsy in faux modesty. "Once Cy is done for, we can start taking out out biggest threats … John, Rai and Ollie, in any order."
"Sounds good to me. As long as I'm not the one getting voted off, why should I care?" Shrugged Fosley. "I'm kinda surprised I've not been targeted yet, considering that I've played the perfect under the radar game pre-merge."
"Except that time you were in the bottom two with Liv." Teased Patsy.
"That doesn't count." Scoffed Fosley. "Also, I will admit, I'd also care if you got voted off. You're my most important ally … and, I admit, the only person on this island I consider a friend."
"… That's nice of you to say." Smiled Patsy. "But, crushing Cy first, friendship later."
"That's a plan I can get behind." Chuckled Fosley.
(Confessional: Is the shadow about to have their lights turned on?)
Patsy: Fosley … I admit, he's somebody I see as a friend. I never have cared much for friends and having a social life, but he's a guy who shares my brains, interests and cynical nature. But, to take him or Bianca to the final two. Hmm … I'll have to sleep on it, I have bigger priorities right now.
Fosley: Looks like Patsy thinks she's got her guy. I'm glad to be involved in this plan; taking down a psycho and a threat in one go … not bad.
Trey was still relaxing in the sunshine on the roof of the sandcastle. He sighed in content at the warmth.
"When I win the million I'll bribe the weather forecast to make it sunny like this every day. Call me Vito Corleone because I'll give them an offer they can't refuse." Mused Trey, a smirk on his face.
Trey rolled over so his back was being sunned.
"… It's just too bad I don't have a coconut with a curly straw." Lamented Trey. "Curly straws are awesome."
"They sure are!" Agreed Bianca as she arrived on the roof. "What are you doing up here?"
"Tanning. Want to join me?" Offered Trey.
"Do you even need to ask?" Smirked Bianca as she took off her sweater to reveal her pink belly shirt. "By the way, Patsy says we're voting off Cy tonight. She didn't really explain why though."
"Excellent. He'll never see it coming!" Declared Trey.
"He sure won't!" Giggled Bianca. "But now, tanning time. Good thing there's no rain, huh?"
"I hope there will be." Replied Trey. "A finale during a thunderstorm would be epic."
"… Can't argue with that." Agreed Bianca as she lay down n her belly and got settled.
(Confessional: Storms make everything cool!)
Trey: All this sunny weather, bah! It may do the body good, but would some variety hurt? I want storms! I want volcanic eruptions! I want earthquakes! The audience probably wants it too!
Bianca: Even with the game going on, having a break is always nice. All work and no play makes Bianca a bored girl … and you don't want to see me get bored.
The four Brawns still in the game were having a meeting in the forest, a short distance from the campsite.
"So. anybody do anything much this morning?" Asked John. "Perhaps something that could help us make the top four?"
"Me and Bianca have a pact." Stated Ruth. "I do not vote for her, and she does not vote for me. I am competent."
"Indeed you are. Good job Ruth." Said John with a nod of approval. "Rai, Moe, you guys got anything done?"
Moe and Rai exchanged a glance.
"Do you want to tell him, or should I be the Teller instead of the Penn?" Asked Moe. "Either one is fine and dandy to me."
"Can I tell him?" Requested Rai.
"Of course." Nodded Moe. "I like hearing your vice. It sounds pretty."
Rai blushed at the compliment and then spoke.
"Nothing much really. We just had … a few moments." Admitted Rai. "Romantic stuff."
"… Then how did you get scratched up like that?" Asked John sounding concerned.
"If that was romance, it's too kinky for me." Stated Ruth.
"I fell in a thorn bush." Said Rai, half lying.
Moe raised an eyebrow and glanced at Rai.
"Later." Whispered Rai, so quiet that only Moe could hear her.
Moe nodded in understanding and decided to back Rai up.
"Yep. It is as true as my name is Moe." Assured Moe. "We just had an eight percent romance orientated morning.
John and Ruth seemed to accept this explanation.
"Well, nice to hear you two had a good morning." Noted John.
"Love makes the world go round." Droned Ruth in monotone.
"That must make the sun the most romantic thing ever." Mused Moe.
"Once again, genius." Grinned Rai.
John chuckled.
"Indeed. Well, this meeting need not go on very long, so I'll just say I think we should vote for Cy or Diamond. I suspect they are double dealing both sides. Might be best to knock them down a peg." Suggested John.
"I was thinking the exact same thing." Agreed Ruth.
"Okie dokie." Saluted Moe.
"Um … alright." Said Rai, fiddling her her raven locks a little bit.
(Confessional: Fracturing like a bone.)
John: It may be unwise to say it, but … the merge is going a lot easier than I had expected.
Moe: I think Rai was lying to John and Ruth. I have two questions to ask her … why lie, and lie why?
Rai: I might be wrong and being dumb, but … I'm not sure of Cy really is the shadow. I mean, after how he gave up an idol to get rid of Sarge to help my team just as much as for his own motives … I just don't know, maybe I am being stupid, but … am I?
Ruth: I have an alliance. I am no threat. I feel sad. … I've got this.
A while later the ten campers besides Cy were sitting around the camp-fire, waiting for Cy to return with the Chris Mail. There was a rather tense silence.
"… Why is nobody saying anything?" Asked Moe.
"There is nothing to be said." Stated Fosley.
"Exactly. Besides, those who need to know already know." Added Patsy. "All we have left to do is wait for Cy to hurry up and tell us what the challenge is."
"Well, no need to wait because here he is." Noted Diamond. "I wonder what today's challenge is gonna be like."
"Challenging." Stated Ruth.
Cy arrived holding an envelope.
"Well guys, ready to rumble?" Asked Cy.
"Sure. Lay it on us; what's the daily grind gonna be today?" Asked John.
Cy opened the envelope and read the contents.
"It's asking us if we 'are ready to hide from sight to win immunity' … I think it's a hide and seek challenge." Noted Cy.
"Yes! A challenge where being small is a help rather than a hindrance!" Exclaimed Bianca.
"Pity the taller players." Lamented John. "Well, let's be off then."
The eleven campers got up and headed off to the designated challenge area. As they were leaving, unbeknownst to them a figure peered out from behind the sandcastle fort, glaring at one camper in particular.
"No witnesses..." Hissed the figure, anger on their face.
(Confessional: Unless you count the birds and all the cameras)
Bianca: Hide and seek, for me that's child's play. Well, maybe. I'm not too familiar with the layout of this part of the island. Oh well, should be fun anyway. Let's see how long I last … assuming it is hide and seek.
Trey: Ah, the forest. Lots of fun things happen there, like Bambi, picnics … and Slenderman. I think I've got the edge here.
Fosley: If C is not immune he is gone. He's a threat t everybody, both strategically and in general safety, so I feel quite comfortable to be the one to stop him winning immunity.
(Challenge Area)
Soon the eleven campers were gathered at the challenge area, ready to compete for immunity. Chris flashed a clearly forced grin to the camera while SARA looked more engaged and attentive than usual.
"Welcome to your next challenge. Sadly, I will not be getting much camera time today. Because of the union, SARA gets to take the reins for today." Said Chris, sounding as though his mother and cat had died on the same day. "The short of it is that this is a hide and seek challenge. You guys will be hiding, and SARA will be seeking. Last person who remains uncaught will win immunity. SARA, tell them how you will you be catching them."
"With my awesome gadgets." Said SARA. If it had a mouth, it would have been smirking. "I have infra-red vision, a helicopter blade extension, a net cannon, mild stun gun, state of the art one liners, and much, much more that will help me keep pace with you and catch you. Think of yourselves as Sarah Connor and myself as the Terminator."
"So, basically it's impossible to escape you if you see us?" Stated Patsy, flatly.
"I wouldn't say impossible, just hard since robots don't get tired. An advantage to not having muscles or blood." Said SARA, a troll face briefly appearing on its screen. "I will be giving you ten minutes to run and find a hiding place."
"Yeah, like that'll do any good. You could probably sense out footsteps with some fancy software or something." Muttered Rai. "I may be fast, several of us are, but this seems like trying to outrun a bolder on a steep hill .. I think?"
"Not to worry. I shall me manually shutting down for the allotted ten minutes. I will not be able to sense anything." Stated SARA. "I am a robot of fair play, justice and smart ass remarks."
"I can believe one of those three things." Stated Trey.
"If that is all the explanation needed, let's get started!" Declared Chris. "Remember, this season there is no home base and no helping SARA catch others in exchange for immunity. It's flee or be caught … unless you want to try to fight SARA off which, while I would approve of this very much, is not something I would advise you to try."
"Your hiding time starts … now." Stated SARA as it shut itself down, with only a decreasing timer being shown on its screen.
Seeing SARA was inactive and their hiding time was decreasing every second, the eleven campers ran off in various different directions, looking for the perfect place to hide. Chris stood silently for a moment, before he smirked. He took out a marker pen and wrote a message on the back of SARA. The message read:-
-Kick Me-
"You still got it Chris." Said Chris, a grin on his face.
A figure watched from behind a nearby tree, observing the direction where one of the campers was running.
"Here we go." Said the figure, a smirk on their face.
(Confessional: By 'it' does he mean fan-base hatred?)
Cy: Gee, this might be harder than I expected. I'm out of practise, and I tend to give away my position easily because I tend to laugh a bit, huhuhuhuh. See, did it right then. Well, let's hope I find a kickass hiding place, huh?
Patsy: You know, I wish I still had my pad. It'd be beneficial to hack into SARA … wait, if Cloaky sees this confessional then … aw, crap. Well, Ollie is top of their list, not me.
Trey: I could hide like a coward … but! I am not a coward! Thus, the only logical curse of action is to make some diabolically chaotic traps! Like, for example, a banana pell to make those peons slip on! I'm a genius, mwahahahahaha!
Ruth: I am going to punch SARA in the face.
Rai: Well, I have agility, flexability and hide-ability … result!
Moe: Ah, hide and seek, the old childhood favourite. I remember one time I hid in my mum's womb for nine months and nobody found me until it was time for me to enter the world. Ah, good times.
Next Time: SARA shows of its Terminator blood (oil?) and gives the campers a hide and seek game to remember! Along with a rather unexpected happening, somebody else gets voted off the island.